HOME-DESIGNER AND ARCHITECT
MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2014
Bathroom Audio Mirror DAB/FM radio
LED lighting
Wall hung or fully recessed
streaming
Touch sensitive controls
Heated mirror (no misting)
love your music! Music In Every Room Ltd Tel: 01943 870395 sales@musicineveryroom.co.uk www.musicineveryroom.co.uk/mirror
CONTENTS Publishing Director Tony Little 01843 595818 tony@homedesignerandarchitect.co.uk
4 6 12 16 29
Editor Jenna Burridge jenna@homedesignerandarchitect.co.uk PublicatioN Manager Dean Perry 01843 570944 dean@homedesignerandarchitect.co.uk Publishing House Jet Digital Media Ltd The Mill Spratling Court Office Spratling Court Farm Manston Kent CT12 5AN
Industry News Editors Choice Bathroom Kitchen Surfaces Insulation
www.homedesignerandarchitect.co.uk
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Kate Middleton school shortlist under microscope Five architects asked to produce concept designs for science block revamp Sarah Wigglesworth, Tim Ronalds and Nicholas Hare have been shortlisted for a competition to redevelop a listed science block at Marlborough College where annual boarding fees top £33,000. Orms and Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios complete the line-up for the £10 million contest. They were whittled down from 14 expressions of interest from invited practices.
UK woes mar HOK's return to profit Regions now the most optimistic, Future Trends survey Virtually all the companies completing the RIBA’s numbers to stabilise or increase in the coming months as the recovery spreads beyond London and the south-east. A total of 195 practices took part in the latest survey with
The workload index remained at +28 in August with all The most optimistic areas were Scotland, Northern Ireland, the Midlands and East Anglia.
The school, which opened a sister school in Malaysia two years ago, is the alma mater of Kate Middleton, designer William Morris, poet Siegfried Sassoon, singer Chris de Burgh and Mark Reckless, the Tory MP who recently defected to UKIP.
UK as all nations and regions begin to see an improving workload situation,” said RIBA director practice Adrian Dobson.
The existing reinforced concrete building, designed by Professor WG Newton, dates from 1934.
up with private housing as the most optimistic sector. Both returned a score of +23 in August – although the
Private housing and commercial continue to remain
Listed in 1971 at grade II, it features two storeys of laboratories splaying out from a central entrance core that also contains a library and lecture rooms capped by a cupola. The facades display very careful shutter marks and exposed aggregate. introduce modern facilities that break down the distinctions between biology, physics and chemistry. Competition organiser Malcolm Reading said: “This is The current science block has a fascinating heritage but needs a new life to accommodate new teaching balance between the architectural grain of the existing contemporary architecture.” with a winner announced in December.
Pringle's firm finalises City deal Pringle Brandon Perkins & Will the all clear. The £20 million scheme on New Bridge Street, near Blackfriars station, is called Fleet House and is being developed by the Corporation of London. It will replace existing 1950s buildings and the St Bride’s Tavern pub in Bridewell Place. The 7,700sq m building will include retail at ground level.
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INDUSTRY NEWS RIBA fellowships announced Vicky Richardson And Brits Who Built The Modern World Producer Honoured
Hemingway overhauls Goldfinger’s Balfron flat lived in back in 1968.
move out by the end of the year. The National Trust initiative runs for two weeks from series. to people who have made a particular contribution
communities and in the education of future Londonewcastle over a joint venture for the expected to be put up for private sale once the refurbishment is complete.
after their name.
also be replaced.
Hull becomes first UK college to offer part II course university. The course is open for applications but has yet to be
recent major projects have been executed by practices
expected to kickstart new development. investment in Siemens’ wind turbine production facility students will have the opportunity to work with other
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EDITORS CHOICE
SINGLE COAT SOLUTION FOR FABRICATION FIRM Wessex Galvanizers, part of Wedge Group Galvanizing Ltd, has supplied the Galvacoat® paint system to John Reid & Sons for two commercial warehouses in Jersey which measured 29m and 38m wide by 45m long. John Reid & Sons was commissioned to design, fabricate, and erect the warehouses on behalf of their customer who required the paint to ensure it was protected against corrosion in the coastal environment. Andy Davies, Production / Quality Manager at John Reid & Sons (REIDsteel), explained: “Wessex Galvanizers have long been galvanizing our steelwork for projects the Galvacoat product. The project required parts of to match some features that were already powdersuch a large item, and Galvacoat® seemed to be the most viable option, without compromising quality. to that of a marine-type protective coating, and can be easily applied over galvanized steel both on and Richard Whiddett, Commercial Manager at Wessex Galvanizers, said: “hot-dip galvanizing has consistently using standard paints on galvanized steel can often bond adequately with the galvanized surface, it can
Galvacoat® is two component, polyurethane-based designed to give GT0 adhesion on galvanized steel, and can be provided in all RAL and BS colours at For more information visit www.wedge-galv.co.uk/galvacoat.aspx t6t
07831 742373 / Email: mark.endsleigh@wedge-galv.co.uk For more information please contact: Mark Endsleigh on Hot Dip Galvanizing and Galvacoat Hot Dip Galvanizing and Galvacoat
Paint System Specifically Designed to give perfect adhesion to galvanized steel
t Dip Galvanizing and Galvacoat
Pai n t Syst e m Speci fi c al l y Desi g ned t o gi v e Paint System Specifically Designed to give perfect adhesion to galvanized fect adhesioandsteel n to Galvacoat galvanized steel Hot Dipper Galvanizing
perfect adheseion toMark galvanized steel Galvacoat Hot contact: Dip Galvanizing and For more information please Endsleigh on Paint System Specifically Designed to give 07831 742373 / Email: mark.endsleigh@wedge-galv.co.uk 07831 742373 / Email: mark.endsleigh@wedge-galv.co.uk perfect adhesion to galvanized steel Paint System Designed For more information please contact:Specifically Mark Endsleigh on
Hot Dip Galvanizing and Galva
perfect adhesion to galvanize
For more information please contact: Mark Endsleigh on perfect adhesion to galvanized steel 07831 742373 / Email: mark.endsleigh@wedge-galv.co.uk
e contact: Mark Endsleigh on Paint System Specifically Designed to give Hot Dip Galvanizing and Galvacoat k.endsleigh@wedge-galv.co.uk
perfect adhesion to galvanized steel Paint SystemMark SpecificallEndsleigh y Designed to give on ormation please contact: For more information please contact: Mark Endsleigh on 07831 742373 mark.endsleigh@wedge-galv.co.uk
Hot Dip Galvanizing and Galvacoat For more information please contact: Mark Endsleigh on
73 / Email: mark.endsleigh@wedge-galv.c
Editors Choice
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Editors Choice
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ased on established technology that has been in use for many years in large commercial premises, Ash Fire Management has adapted this technology for application into the residential housing sector utilising innovative and patented variations.
NATURVENT
INNOVATION IN FIRE SAFETY REWARDED
Ash Fire Management’s Naturvent system, the innovative smoke and heat management system specifically designed for residential premises, has been awarded over £72,000 by the MedTech Low Carbon Innovation Project, part of the European Regional Development Fund 2007-13.
In nearly all house fire incidents, it is the smoke that causes fatalities, not the fire. Using the latest technology in fire detection, the Naturvent system will vent the toxic gases and fumes that incapacitate victims, sometimes fatally. This is an important advancement in the fight against the threat to life caused by the bi-products of fire. Testing at BRE has shown that the period of survivability is greatly increased with a Naturvent system installed. As shown in the adjacent graph, Oxygen levels are maintained and visibility greatly enhanced with the Naturvent system, enabling a safer operating environment for the fire and rescue services should a fire break out in the home. “Life safety has been the biggest motivation in the development of Naturvent”, says Paul Evans, Ash Fire’s CEO, “giving peace of mind for the homeowner, especially the elderly, enabling them to stay in their homes for longer. We see Naturvent having a key role within the Assisted Living agenda. Furthermore, Naturvent allows the design of open plan living, something of especial interest to home designers and architects, regardless of the size of dwelling. The Naturvent System is being showcased next month in a series of demonstrations taking place in North Weald, Essex. The timber framed house that was used for the BRE tests is being re-built for the demonstrations next month. Anyone interested in attending these live demonstrations is urged to email demos@ashfire.co.uk as soon as possible as place are limited.
Buildings Research Establishment Report 131967 validated by the Fire Safety Engineering Group at the University of Greenwich
www.ashfire.co.uk t9t
The APOLLO monza aluminium column radiator is a modern contemporary design available in over 80 sizes,
Like all apollo radiators it is manufactured in Europe, in The monza aluminium column radiator is ideally suited Unlike most aluminium radiators it relies on waterways to conduct heat, the design and technology is patented, The monza aluminium column radiator is half the weight
The APOLLO roma classic steel column radiators come in
Over 150 sizes are available in 3 working days for white
APOLLO radiators is one of the leading independent apollo radiators the emphasis is on quality, available APOLLO radiators distribute throughout the UK to a wide range of independent merchants, as well as t10t
www.apolloradiators.co.uk
STEAM FREE MIRRORS AND WARM FLOORS TM WITH demistaTM AND Tired of peering through a steamed up mirror when applying makeup, styling hair or shaving? There is no need to wipe clear, or open windows wide on a frosty morning, when you install a self-adhesive demisaTM pad behind the mirror. Simply wire into the lighting system or use a separate switch to ensure a clear view in the steamiest of bathrooms.
Why step out of the warm bath, or shower, on to a cold floor TM when you can have the luxury of under floor comfort heating. The system is safe to use in wet areas, ideal for bathrooms, wet rooms, kitchens and other areas where water may be split. Tel: 01932 866 600 Email: sales@demista.co.uk Web: www.demista.co.uk
TM
Surround yourself with sound for a new kind of KOHLER shower experience ®
www.KOHLER.co.uk ©2014 Kohler Co.
Left to Right: Navy Blue, White, Cherry Red, Chartreuse and Retro Blue Coloured speakers £109.00 each, White £99.00
KOHLER Moxie speaker ®
®
Surround yourself with sound for a new kind of KOHLER® shower experience with the Moxie Showerhead with Integrated Speaker. Your music. Your shower. Your time. To chill out. To sing. To refresh. To get energised. To get away. Showering has never been so much fun. Moxie lets you stream your favourite music, news or radio right in the shower with you. The Moxie showerhead holds a portable wireless speaker that pairs wirelessly with Bluetooth®-enabled devices to deliver high-quality audio to your shower. The speaker docks directly into the showerhead, so your music is closer than ever when showering. While it plays your favourite sounds, this revolutionary showerhead generates a full-coverage, revitalising spray of water for a sensory experience like no other. Moxie is easy to install and use; the wireless speaker pops out for recharging, then securely pops back in for use while showering. You can even take it with you as a wireless speaker to use in any room of the house, or on the go.
For stockists please visit www.KOHLER.co.uk Founded in 1873 and headquartered in Kohler, Wisconsin, Kohler Co. is one of America’s oldest and largest privately held companies. Kohler is a global leader in the manufacture of kitchen & bathroom products, engines and power generation systems, cabinetry, tile & home and Interiors, and international host to award-winning hospitality and world-class golf destinations. Audio Control is managed through the paired Bluetoothenabled device, such as a smart phone or mp3 player. capsule’s design also includes a light that changes colour to indicate when the speaker is paired and when the battery needs to be charged. A lithium battery provides on average seven hours of playtime; recharging the speaker is easy with the USB cord provided. Re-docking the speaker capsule is simple. A strong magnet located in the dock’s base maintains a secure hold. Now available in four new colours - Retro Blue, Chartreuse, Navy Blue and Cherry Red
wetrooms
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wetrooms made easy
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A winning combination for wetrooms
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MAXXUS WET DECK
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BSA MEMBRANE
OR
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www.wetroominnovations.com 01629 815500
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The Maxxus Kit is a third generation deck that takes the wetroom dream to a new level, answering all the deficiencies of existing products. It is the strongest deck on the market, sustaining a 470kg load over joists without any under-boarding, or alternatively set into concrete.
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TANKING KIT
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Kitchen Surfaces
QUARTZFORMS engineered solid surface is the evolution of stone into a perfect form, going one step further than natural stone. Our product is the result of the most cutting-edge technological development, manufactured with precision engineering, innovation and quality using the exclusive BretonstoneŽ process. Its versatility, resistance, aesthetic performance, hygienic quality and easy maintenance have won the trust of architects and designers worldwide. Owned by an Italian family but located in Germany, QUARTZFORMS offers Italian design flair combined with German precision engineering. Exclusively available in the UK through QF Distribution Ltd, stocks over 50 designs/colours in the thicknesses of 12, 20 and 30mm in three finishes, Polished, Spacco and Opaco, are ready for dispatch. The QUARTZFORMS slabs benefit from many worldwide industry certifications which result in a 10 year warranty being offered relating to the performance of the surface. QUARTZFORMS enables their customers to benefit from the scratch, heat and stain resistance that comes with every QUARTZFORMS product. QUARTZFORMS will be available through selected national and regional fabricators and stonemasons, ensuring the highest standard of fabrication and surface for both domestic and commercial projects.
QUARTZFORMS Veined Michelangelo
QUARTZFORMS Absolute White
QF Distribution Limited 01245 243929 | sales@qfdistribution.co.uk | www.qfdistribution.co.uk
QUARTZFORMS Veined Africa
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INDUSTRY Essentials
INDUSTRY Essentials
Extraordinary surface QF Distribution Ltd welcomes it s latest ad d i t i o n, NEOL exten ITH, to i sive s ts tocke d por tfolio .
ESTATUARIO with revolutionary technology, NEOLITH Digital Design (NDD).
E
very so often a new material comes along that lights up the industry and brings new and exciting possibilities to kitchen design and designers. NEOLITH, which is available in the UK by QF Distribution Ltd, is one of those products. QF Distribution Ltd (QFD) will stock over 15 surface finishes in a size of 3200 x 1500 x 12mm to include solid colours and stimulating designs. Ideal for use as worktops, splashbacks and floors tiles, NEOLITH is a sintered compact surface and belongs to a new and revolutionary product category that has been designed to work with the most challenging architectural and design demands. Composed from elements that are 100% natural, the use of extreme high pressure and temperature has been used to create a surface that is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions and high temperatures. Its colour is also UV protected and will not fade when in contact with direct sunlight. Confident that the strength and longevity of the product will outweigh more traditional materials on the market, it is backed up by a 15-year certified guarantee for kitchen countertops. For more information on QFD’s new range visit www.qfdistribution.co.uk, email sales@qfdistribution.co.uk or call 01245 243929.
NEOLITH Basalt Grey
NEOLITH Iron Moss t17t 4 19
Every so often a new material comes along that lights up the industry and brings new and exciting possibilities to kitchen design and designers. NEOLITH from THESIZE now distributed in the UK by QF Distribution Ltd is one of those products. QFD will stock over 15 surface finishes in a size of 3200mm x 1500m x 12mm to include solid colours and stimulating designs. NEOLITH is a sintered compact surface and belongs to a new and revolutionary product category born in the last decade with the aim of providing an innovative response to the most demanding architectural and design demands. NEOLITH manufacture state-of-the-art products that combine functionality and beauty, new materials that define the future of construction. NEOLITH can be used in a variety of ways, including worktops, splash backs and floor tiles. NEOLITH is an extreme evolution which has resulted in a new kind of surface previously non-existent and is composed from three groups which are 100% natural based elements. This backed up by a 15 years certified guarantee for kitchen countertops. The sintering technology that THESIZE has developed to create NEOLITH uses a combination of extreme high pressure and temperature, giving birth to a surface with unique technical features, such as highly resistant to scratches and abrasions and high temperatures and colours that do not change with exposure to UV rays.
ESTATUARIO with revolutionary technology, NEOLITH Digital Design (NDD)
NEOLITH Iron Moss
QF Distribution Limited 01245 243929 | sales@qfdistribution.co.uk | www.qfdistribution.co.uk
NEOLITH Basalt Grey
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Made in Germany, QUARTZFORMS is scratch, heat and stain resistant, making it an ideal choice for use in kitchens and bathrooms.
QUARTZFORMS Absolute White
Precision Engineering +%'+##/#" 01,+# 0-#!' )'01 ,$$#/0 1 )' + $) '/ !,* '+#" 3'1& #/* + * +2$ !12/'+% QUARTZFORMS Veined Michelangelo
Available in 12, 20, and 30mm thicknesses, QF Distribution Ltd offers three finishes - Polished, Spacco, Opaco - ideal for creating stylish worktops, tiles and splashbacks.
QUARTZFORMS Veined Africa With over 50 styles in stock, QUARTZFORMS has created a range of aesthetically appealing surfaces, which offer an equal balance between classical elegance and contemporary style.
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“
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uilding a brand and establishing trust in your product is never an easy process, especially when you are not first to market,� explains Richard Barrett, sales director of QF Distribution, the exclusive distributor of QUARTZFORMS. “But, nearly two years on, I can confidently say that QUARTZFORMS has established itself in the UK market and we are increasing sales month on month.� But, in a competitive market what makes this product stand out from the crowd? Richard believes the product's success lies in its advanced engineering techniques found in QUARTZFORMS’ German manufacturing facilities. “We use a 93% pure quartz compound. It is one of nature's hardest minerals,� explains Richard. “But, to make this superior product even better, we take this natural material on step further. Thanks to the BretonstoneŽ patented vacuum vibro-compression system, the machine gives the material a high-impact resistance and a dense, compacted surface finish, which can't be guaranteed with natural stone. We also use 36 polishing heads to create a higher gloss level and consistent, high quality finish.� This high level of manufacturing has resulted in a wide range of innovative scratch, heat and stain resistant designs taking the KBB industry by storm. And, with over 50 designs in stock and readily available from Essex-based QF Distribution Ltd, it is clear to see why QUARTZFORMS designs are proving popular with KBB designers, architects and retailers. Richard Barrett adds, “At QF Distribution Ltd we aim to meet the needs of industry professionals with an old-fashioned approach to doing business. To us, every one of our customers is a VIP.� For more information on QUARTZFORMS or to request a sample, visit www.qfdistribution.co.uk or call 01245 243929.
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The Key to Success The UK’s original access panel brand, Profilex, holds the key to the industry following a series of improvements to its product. Contractors have given Gyproc Profilex Access Panels’ improved service and range top marks for quality, practicality and durability following rigorous off- and on-site testing. Gyproc Profilex Access Panels are offered in standard or bespoke sizes and shapes, with a variety of options on materials, frame and opening.
Finding the right access panels can be one of the biggest headaches of a building project. Profilex now have that covered by their dedicated Bespoke Access Panels team. They liaise with architects to find the best solutions, overcome any difficulties, and manage logistics so the panels will always be on-site at the right time. Quotes are turned around within one working day and the customer receives regular updates on an order’s progress. The panels can be made to fulfil every conceivable brief and are constructed to exacting standards using the highest-quality materials. Profilex is so confident of their durability and performance that they offer a lifetime warranty, SpecSure® - it’s reassuring to their customers and it is unique to Profilex.
After undergoing thorough fire tests, all fire-rated Gyproc Profilex Access Panels hold the most up-to-date British Standard fire certificates available (2011). Furthermore, in response to customer feedback the hinge mechanism on smaller access panels has been redesigned to allow the easier removal of doors. Founded in 1990, Gyproc Profilex Access Panels was the first access panel manufacturer established in the UK. The company was acquired by Artex to compliment its drywall offering. Gyproc Profilex Access Panels are designed to fit seamlessly in British Gypsum framed systems. They are made under the expertise of drywall specialists and examined in UKAS-approved fire and structural test laboratories. They are further site-tested for installation simplicity and integrity and are supported, as required, by the UK’s leading technical personnel. To view the complete range visit www.profilex.co.uk
For standard access panels telephone 0800 032 6345 or email artexcustomerservice@saint-gobain.com
To view the complete range of Gyproc Profilex Access Panels, visit www.profilex.co.uk
For non-standard and bespoke access panels telephone 0115 984 9116 or email commercial.support@saint-gobain.com
New Focus SB Smoothie
速
Focus SB have launched a new and exciting electrical accessory wall mounting system plate, developed in collaboration with architects and designers SHH (www.shh.co.uk). All existing UK electrical accessories which plate above the plaster.
where a minimal, discreet solution is required. The plate, which is supplied primed, can be painted or wallpapered to match the plate and plugs pin holes are visible once inserting the plug does not disturb the surrounding plaster. The socket mounting plate can also be adjusted deeper into the wall and a blank plate inserted, removing longer in use. The Focus SB Smoothie can potentially
possibilities are endless. bespoke plates are their speciality, so bespoke solutions are also available in the Smoothie range.
exciting new product and to discuss your www.focus-sb.co.uk Telephone: 01424 858060 Focus SB, Napier Road, Castleham Industrial Estate, East Sussex TN38 9NY
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OSMO GETS THE THUMBS UP IN SCOTLAND
W
hen a family took on a new self-build project in 2008 to build a‘Double Log’construction as their new home in Woodhead, Aberdeenshire, they were in need of interior and exterior wood treatment. Osmo’s eco-friendly wood finishes were recommended to provide an aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting protection. Six years on, and the Osmo finishes are still providing optimum results. Long Rig is located in the crest of a hill, offering fantastic views of the Gampian Mountains. Not wanting to distract from the beauty of the natural landscape, Russell and Janice Quinlan chose to build a wooden house. All exterior and interior wood of Long Rig is Finnish Pine. With so much wood on display, a reliable and protective wood finish was required. After a recommendation, the homeowner chose to use Osmo Natural Woodstain in Pine (700) for exterior wood and Osmo Wood Protector for all interior wood. Osmo Woodstain, an oil-based protective finish was applied to the exterior of Long Rig. The finish provides protection against all weather conditions. With its active ingredients defending the material from mould, algae and fungal attack, Woodstain was the perfect finish for the wooden house situated in the hills of Aberdeenshire.
“The finish allowed the woods national colour to influence the final tone, which resulted in a lovely finish for our house,” explains Russell Quinlan. “We have been so impressed with the Osmo Woodstain. It’s offered great protection, never cracking, peeling or flaking.” Turning their attention to the inside of the property, Russell Quinlan opted for Osmo Wood Protector. This finish preserves the original quality of the natural wood. It is a great product to use in areas of high moisture such as the kitchen and bathroom due to its increased water protection. It was the perfect primer for the internal wooden finish at Long Rig. The interior was then finished with Polyx Oil. “We have been delighted with the end result, both internally and externally” adds Russell. “All wood was fully treated with Osmo products and in the six years since the build, we have been very pleased with the performance of the Osmo.” For more information on Osmo’s range of eco-friendly solutions, please visit www.osmouk.com, or call Osmo directly on 01296 481 220.
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Fabulous NEW Facing Brick
from Tobermore Available in Two Exclusive Finishes! Tobermore, the world class paving and walling manufacturer, now offer two beautiful facing brick ranges, Lansdowne and Kingston, for the commercial and domestic markets across the UK and Ireland. As the construction industry returns to growth, clay facing brick manufacturers are struggling to satisfy the growing demand from house builders. Tobermore’s Lansdowne and Kingston, on the other hand, are readily available from stock or made to order in a very short time frame! Lansdowne facing brick is ideal for creating a timeless appearance of warmth and elegance. Lansdowne is a tumbled facing brick which produces a charming weathered look and is guaranteed to enhance the character of any building. For those who prefer a facing brick with a smooth, sophisticated finish, Kingston is the perfect choice. The world class manufacturing processes in place at Tobermore provide Kingston with an impeccably smooth surface while the product colours are beautifully rich and vibrant. Tobermore only use the best Iron Oxide pigments available on the market to produce the distinctive colour ranges available in their products. Lansdowne and Kingston are available in an inspiring range of seven solid and blended colours for complementary or contrasting architectural designs, and are proven to have superb colour retention. Furthermore, both of these fabulous facing brick ranges are available in a complete range of specials. Manufactured to British Standard specifications, Lansdowne and Kingston incorporate three perforated voids in each brick. This provides significant benefits to the bricklayer as the product will bond to the mortar on both sides, which will help to reduce the issue of floating. Tobermore have one of the largest factories in the UK and Ireland which spans over a 50 acre site affording them the ability to offer batch control of all orders. This ensures consistency of product colour when being called-off by site. And with over 99% of GB deliveries arriving on the day of request it provides customer confidence that material will be supplied on time. Tobermore’s experience in product innovation, manufacture and service ensures that when choosing facing brick, you can be assured of quality, reliability and choice. For more information on Tobermore’s world class paving, walling and facing brick collection, please contact 0844 800 5736 sales@tobermore.co.uk www.tobermore.co.uk
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BASALTE
WHERE INGENUITY MEETS SIMPLICITY
Home automation systems are often designed from a technical point of view, but the young Belgian company Basalte believes that you should be able to control everything in an intuitive and simple way. This innovative company designs products for the modern smart home. From the beginning, Basalte’s mainspring was to develop user-friendly products with a sophisticated user interface and a beautiful design. Basalte’s timeless and exclusive product range consists of unique and intelligent design switches based on advanced touch technology. One of these innovative switches is Sentido, a square-shaped light switch that is divided into two or four equal surfaces, curtains can be controlled even at the slightest touch. The use of high-quality touch-sensitive metal surface not only results in a pure, timeless and highly innovative design, but also creates a great and unique user experience. Basalte also developed Deseo, an intelligent room controller with an integrated thermostat. Besides being a beautiful thermostat, Deseo can also control all home automation functions of a room in an intuitive way. Another product of Basalte is Eve, an elegant frame to secure an iPad in style on the wall. This frame turns the iPad and also iPod touch in an amazing on-wall touch replace a complex touch screen for a home automation system that often dominates the room. Basalte always looks for an emotional connection when designing products and sees to it that products not only look or feel good, but also are great fun to use. The company’s continuous commitment to accessible technology and quality design has been awarded the last six years with more than 20 international design awards. Basalte products add comfort by simplifying the user experience in the modern home, because simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.
For more information:
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Wicanders Presents a New Label to Highlight the Uniqueness of its Cork Floor and Wall Solutions Over the years, Wicanders has developed
cork.
B
y combining traditional production methods with cutting-edge technology, Wicanders’ floor and wall solutions are distinctive, elegant, resistant and comfortable, using a material with unique qualities and which has proven environmental benefits – cork. Now, and in a clear demonstration of its world leadership in cork flooring, Wicanders is launching a new label – Corktech – to highlight in a tangible way the benefits of its particular solution: more silence, more warmth, more walking comfort, more body wellness and more impact resistance. Cork is a sustainable product that comes from the bark of a tree - a unique species of oak that renews its bark after each harvest - which is composed of 40 million air filled cells per cm3 that provide resilience, sound absorption and thermal insulation. Along with these benefits, Amorim continuously invests in R&D and in new technological solutions, developing new collections and renewed looks. The cork layers play a major role in the performance of the wall and floor coverings, turning them into a unique selling proposition and a key differentiating issue when compared with other solutions available in the market. Corktech label expresses this exclusive technology combined with one of nature’s most amazing products. Its superior performance is based in a multilayer structure: a high thickness core layer of cork, which provides superior physical comfort, sound reduction and warmth, allied to an integrated cork underlay that reinforces the shock absorbing and the acoustical and thermal insulation properties.
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Combining state of the art technology with the exclusive natural properties of cork, Wicanders created the perfect match between beauty, comfort and durability, achieving a higher standard in flooring, with an impressive range of decorative visuals in cork, wood, optical image and vinyl, protected by the upmost resistant top finishes wear layer.
Producing high quality Permeable Resin Bound Paving since 1997 • SUDs compliant
• 15 year guarantee
• No planning permission required
• Non-slip, accessible finish
• Available nationwide
• Suitable for internal and external use
A fully permeable, high quality resin bound paving that allows water to drain through. SureSet is an eco-friendly and visually stunning addition to any inside or outside area.
Please contact us for more information, samples or a quotation: E: sales@sureset.co.uk
T: 0800 612 2083
W: www.sureset.co.uk
icynene.co.uk Contact Us
THE GLOBAL LEADER IN SPRAY FOAM INSULATION Since 1986 Icynene速 is the world leader in open
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icynene.co.uk Contact Us
Icynene H2Foam Lite (LD-C 50) Spray Foam Insulation ICYNENE H2Foam Lite (LD-C 50) is the product that made the Icynene name synonymous with superior-quality spray foam insulation. It has been used in thousands of residential and commercial projects since 1986, consistently outperforming traditional insulation types. – Open-cell – Light density (8 Kg/m3) – 100% water-blown – no HCFCs, HFAs, HFCs, no VOCs, no formaldehyde – and an excellent thermal APPLICATIONS Icynene spray foam insulation can be installed in both new and existing homes, and even in the most unusual designs. It adheres to brick walls, concrete, wood and steel BUILDING SCIENCE Practicing building science, also known as a “systems approach,” means accounting for the ways all building components interact, including the foundation, walls, roofs, doors, windows, insulation and mechanical systems. Doing so is critical to optimize building performance and prevent building failures. high humidity levels on the West Coast to extreme temperature changes (-50 °C to + 40 °C) in central provinces. They have no choice but to economically improve their buildings for durability and resistance to temperature changes. Icynene® is the perfect example of how smart insulation can address the challenges of modern building science.
Fire Protection for Modern Office Space A creative team from Amin Taha Architects were given a project to transform the ground and two
in an Envirograf® Envirograf®
®
®
has made the project far more cost effective and
Envirograf®
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INDUSTRY Essentials
INDUSTRY Essentials
Indefinable quality You know immediately when something is right. In a sliding door, it’s the solidity of the frame and how easily it moves. In a façade, it’s slim lines and excellent thermal insulation. In a conservatory, it’s a relaxing space that’s usable all year round. In a window, it’s a choice of opening styles and a lockable ergonomic handle. In home-improvement products, it’s Schueco’s Contemporary Living Collection. www.schueco.co.uk
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Schueco’s Contemporary Living Collection Has What It Takes
The launch last year of Schueco’s Contemporary Living Collection of aluminium façades, windows and doors marked the entry of a major new player into the UK home improvement and self-build markets. Since then, the company has experienced rapidly accelerating residential sales as more and more customers become aware of the outstanding quality associated with the Schueco name. Among the many products in the Collection is a range of maintenancefree, double-glazed sliding doors that is comprehensive enough to fulfil almost any specification. As well as straightforward sliding ‘patio’ doors, the choice includes folding/ sliding doors, lift-and-slide doors and panoramic doors. Lift-and-slide doors are becoming increasingly popular with homeowners, so it is not surprising to discover that Schueco’s ASS 70.HI door system is proving a winner. Available in single, double or triple track configurations, these 70mm deep doors look superb and glide effortlessly on stainless steel tracks. The lift-slide action is facilitated by stylish ergonomic handles. The system’s excellent insulation results in class-leading 'U' values from 1.6 W/m2K with double-glazing, down to 1.3 W/m2K with triple-glazing, easily exceeding Building Regulations.
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It also offers excellent weathertightness and impressive sound reduction and, with burglar resistance up to WK2, customers can have both style and complete security. Folding/sliding doors are another customer-favourite because of their ability to offer a clear opening of as much as 95%. The Collection’s ASS 70 FD is a top-quality example of this type of door and for those looking for the ultimate in sophistication, there is a motorised option that can be connected to a whole building management system. The windows in the Contemporary Living Collection are equally stylish and deliver impressive ‘U’ values. The many types available include inward-and outward-opening, side-hung, top-hung, tilt-turn and fixed light. All open and close smoothly and have tight, draughtproof weather seals. The Schueco Green Window even makes use of components made from natural raw materials such as castor-oil plants and sugar cane. The latest addition is the Schueco ASS 70 SC, an insulated outward-opening window that delivers Schueco ‘build quality’ extremely economically. With a depth of 70 mm, slim sightlines and a choice of five vent sizes, this window is the ideal solution for all types of self-build, refurbishment and home improvement projects.
NEW
SWITCHES & SOCKETS WITH A TOUCH OF GLASS
TM
Retrotouch’s high quality product range comprises of Touch and Remote light switches, Rocker Light Switches, Sockets, Audio Systems and Accessories.
WWW.RETROTOUCH.CO.UK sales@retrotouch.co.uk | Tel: +44 (0)1293 279 426 | Fax: +44 (0)1293 471 444
Cubbins new range of Luxury Interior Accessories have been received extremely well by the hospitality and interior design industry. Our three new collections consist of accessories for bathrooms, bedrooms and general hotel areas. painted to match a client’s colour scheme. Useful accessories such as tissue box covers, waste paper bins, laundry bins and amenities trays can all be completed with a clients own branding.
hotels in the Caribbean.�
Accessories covered in clients own fabrics are proving to be a big hit with interior designers For further details please visit the Cubbins website where you can download our latest brochure and
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while the larger 5 star luxury hotels are preferring to design their own range of wooden hotel accessories, complete with their own branding.
NEW
TOUCH & REMOTE SWITCHES WITH A TOUCH OF GLASS
TM
Retrotouch’s high quality product range comprises of Touch and Remote light switches, Rocker Light Switches, Sockets, Audio Systems and Accessories.
WWW.RETROTOUCH.CO.UK sales@retrotouch.co.uk | Tel: +44 (0)1293 279 426 | Fax: +44 (0)1293 471 444
Apollo Monza Aluminium Column Radiator
De-Mist With Demista™ With winter closing in, darker mornings and evenings, and cooler temperatures, you are less likely to keep the bathroom ventilated with open windows. The result, a steamy mirror. The solution, install a demista™ heated mirror pad behind the bathroom mirror and voila! A clear view even in the steamiest bathroom. The heated mirror pads are available in a choice of sizes and in the case of very large mirrors, can be used in multiples, for complete coverage. The self-adhesive pads are easy to install and are simply wired in to the lighting system, so heat comes on when light is switched on. Running costs are minimal. demista ™ heated mirror pads are manufactured in the UK.
The monza is a modern contemporary design of column radiator available in over 80 sizes, both vertical and horizontal. Any bespoke size can be made up on site.Delivery to merchants is within 3 days. Like all apollo radiators it is manufactured in Europe, in this case Italy. The monza is ideally suited to low temperature renewable systems, incorporating heat pumps and
Tel:01932 866600 Email:sales@demista.co.uk Web:www.demista.co.uk
Naturvent – Innovation In Fire Safety Rewarded Ash Fire Management’s Naturvent system, the innovative
Unlike most aluminium radiators it relies on waterways to conduct heat, the design and technology is patented, and also suited to high pressure systems. The monza is half the weight of steel column radiators, and available at a similar price. There are 46 colour options available within 7 days, the standard colour being ral 9016 white, available in 3 days.
designed for residential premises, has been awarded over £72,000 by the MedTech Low Carbon Innovation Project, part of the European Regional Development Fund 2007-13.
gases and fumes that incapacitate victims. Testing has greatly increased with a Naturvent system installed. Naturvent System is being showcased in North Weald, places are limited.
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One Home from Two Barns The conversion of a pair of listed barns without its dramas, but the results are elegant, tranquil and well executed. Chantry Farm Barn is a slick operation in both design and process terms. The conversion of two Grade II into a single family home, it is a masterclass in all those things that good conversions should be: full of dramatic, up-to-the-rafters spaces and contrasting use of limited openings; and with a sense of integrity and truth to the original building — everything that bad conversions, with their dormer windows and suspended ceilings and boxy layouts, fall down on. If you’re going to take on a building of this history and this character, then you’d better be prepared to retain its key elements. Yet it is not just the design of this place that should serve as something to aim for. This is a top-end project, one for a pair of London lawyers who could who could bring in the project to the £765,000 build budget (working out at around £2,000/m2 — not bad for a high-spec conversion project). Wisely the clients
building process on the client’s behalf, not only controlling costs but administering tenders, liaising with the builder and so on. Clearly, given the seamless construction process, a wise choice.
incorrect basis for calculating the change. In other variations the contractor had included costs twice for the same change and had forgotten to give credit where works had been omitted. If we had not been involved these things would not have been picked up. In total I think we saved in the region of £30,000 but our greater value was in the support we gave to the clients and architect to ensure that the clients’ position was protected.” which meant having someone close to hand proved involved advising the clients and architect concerning the correct procedure under the contract. We were also involved prior to the insolvency in highlighting the risks of employing the particular contractor and
The barns already had planning permission for conversion when the clients took them on, engaging to produce a more impressive scheme. “There had been a previous design proposal which was defeated by the sheer scale of the barn and the listed building volume of the barn. This also couldn’t accommodate the rooms the clients were looking for,” says Robin Bertram. “The owners wanted something exciting and innovative rather than a ‘standard’ barn conversion. They had a clear idea that they wanted a contemporary interior, so we developed this with them and worked with it to contrast the more agricultural exterior and historic fabric and to make best use of the fantastic
weight in gold in terms of keeping a close eye on changed from limecrete to concrete. The contractor’s valuation was £17,515 and our valuation £5,639 — i.e.
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living space. The other section of the property contains a second living area built around a wonderful polished
INDUSTRy NEWS
E x t e n d i n g a Stone Barn
With the aid of their architect son Andrew, a stunning oak extension has grown from James and Sandra McAvoy’s converted stone barn. The mountains, sun and aspect of the garden actually designed the building,” says architect Andrew McAvoy of the barn he has converted and extended for parents James and Sandra, in deepest rural Aberdeenshire. Taking this impressive trio as the metaphorical cornerstones
on,” says Andrew. “One of the ways to building, so for two years we scouted around the countryside looking for rundown structures.”
The house – ‘Mill O’Braco’ – is a welcome sight after travelling along a network of narrow, minor roads. The impressive glass and timber wing is a striking yet cosy addition to a group of late 19th century farm buildings, set into a valley overlooking the distant but nonetheless imposing Bennachie mountain range. Nor are they just any old mountains, as Andrew – of Glasgow-based Bl@st Architects – explains: “My parents spent a lot of time looking for a place that inspired them, and the mountains that they now see from the house are where they spent a lot of time walking. They had a real attachment with the place.”
Still, the McAvoys really couldn’t have stumbled upon a better site in terms of views, aspect and garden — all of which were at the top of their wishlist. However, with the site came a long barn that the family would have to use as the basis for their new home. Its size meant that Andrew not only had a conversion job on his hands, but a design brief to extend this building to provide the space his parents needed. Consequently, he would also have the local planning committee to overcome. “The problem was to do with percentage for extension. We were running contrary to local planning policy, meaning we had to go to a planning committee. We were told that we were allowed a 50 per cent extension, but we were arguing for 110 per cent!” explains Andrew. The McAvoys sat tight and in the end a resolution was reached. “When it went to committee, they could see that with the limited proportions of the existing building it would be
O’Braco’s was not an easy task. “There was a law that precludes people buying their own house sites unless they are tied via employment to the
bedroom house. Our main argument was that moving out with a new wing was a means of generating light and energy for the building, and it dealt
certainly in terms of recognition, for it achieved a double whammy at the Aberdeenshire Council Design Awards Scheme — walking away with Most Innovative New Building and Most Sustainable New Building.
with the required privacy of where to put the living rooms. My parents felt the living rooms should be related to their garden, but because the building is part of a courtyard group, none of the existing steading. “In the end, the local planning committee were very supportive and fair, and when we got to the point of standing on the site and explaining what we were going to do, they were very receptive.” So what was Andrew going to do with the site he had been given a free hand with? Well, the original east/westfacing two storey barn would house the kitchen, a bedroom and bathroom (complete with sauna) on the ground level. Stairs would lead up to a further two bedrooms and bathroom on the barn roof. The new wing would then run perpendicular with the barn – or facing living and dining area, and cosy gallery space above. “The levels and dimension of the extension were really determined by the presence of the existing building,” adds Andrew. “We thought, given that it was a strong farm group, we shouldn’t overplay the extension. If anything we should work with the proportions of the original building so as not to contest with its presence. The design became entirely
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INDUSTRY news
A Sustainable Farmhouse
Family Eco Home Under £200k
Dumfries and Galloway farmer Neil Gourlay and his wife Mary have built a truly sustainable home using as many locally sourced materials as possible. The home, which
When Louise and Ivor Nicholson were given a 65m² post-war bungalow – which had been in Louise’s family for a quarter of a century – the intention was to extend and remodel. However, after surveying the
uses and feeds the surplus electricity back into the National Grid. But it is not only the environmental elements of the design that are to be applauded — their vision for a low impact home has also been met through its design, and the use of materials makes it almost blend into the landscape. Neil and Mary are the third generation of the Gourlay family to farm in the Cairn Valley. In light of the recent put them back into something he had more control over, so he used the money to build a sustainable home for their retirement. Choosing a location on their 300-acre site was informed by the lay of the land. Gaining planning permission for an agricultural use home, which allowed them to keep a close eye on livestock, was fairly easy and they opted for a position that would ensure the home would be low impact too. The chosen plot has a view to die for, and the home is nestled into a hillside for a limited impact on the landscape.
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to knock it down and rebuild. By doing so, they have created a modernist single storey home which takes advantage of passive solar The original family home in rural Aberdeenshire was cramped and damp, but had stunning views down to Balmedie sand dunes and a large garden. The Nicholson’s thought that these redeeming features would make it the perfect location for their home. However, the quantity surveyor’s assessment, which took into account the VAT they would have to pay, — especially since stripping out the home would cost £12,000, whereas demolition would only be £9,000. There were also structural issues, and trying to make starting again made practical sense.
INDUSTry NEWS
Shortlist announced for Glasgow competition Winter gardens winner to be announced in November
Heatherwick serves up gin distillery visitor centre
renovation including adding two glass houses that will be
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INDUSTRY NEWS
New AHR practice looks for overseas boost
Ex-Aedas business looks to Middle East and India
Hadrian's Wall visitor centre gets go-ahead funding
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King's Cross Central and Two Pancras Square by Allies & Morrison
Inspirational British furniture without the high street price tag
Exclusive £40 readers discount when you spend £750 Enter HD&A2714 by 2nd July For free fabric samples, call us on 0845 527 0693 or visit www.willowandhall.co.uk The Alderton corner sofa and sofa bed in Linen Cotton Dove from £1,596 and £1,744
INDUSTRY Essentials
INDUSTRY Essentials
New to the
KITCHEN & BEDROOM COLLECTION for 2014
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