Home Designer & Architect December 2021 by Jet Digital Media Ltd

HOME-DESIGNER AND ARCHITECT

MAGAZINE DECember 2021

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nce again a revolutionary solution and product has ben introduced to the industry by the creators of CT1. The landscape of sealants and adhesives was dramatically changed 18 years ago when CT1 was first introduced. CT1 were also the first to introduce and coin the term “Hybrid Polymer.” Realising that the technology was increasingly dated, CT1 blew the industry away once again with the introduction of TRIBRID® technology. The TRIBRID® advancements are ground breaking. Now 3 times stronger than regular Hybrid Polymers, it also has much longer colour retention. A gripe that many tradespeople had with many hybrids on the market is that the white would discolour over time and the clear would often turn yellow. After considerable research and development, CT1 and its unique TRIBRID® technology have solved these problems and they are no longer an issue. Power Grab ‘n’ Bond is truly incredible. Based on CT1’s TRIBRID® technology, it eliminates fixings and has instant grab on large vertical bonding. It is fair to say that before now that if you asked your builder or construction Project Manager if they had a liquid product to bond and replace mechanical fixings, there would be no suggestion available. Until now, that is. Power Grab ‘n’ Bond replaces mechanical fixings and is the ultimate chemical fix. It reduces labour significantly - up to 50%. Power Grab ‘n’ Bond was was originally created for facades and heavy stone work. Its versatility and power has now been widely adopted by shopfitting installers, kitchen installers, for outside stone work, façades, quoins, landscape and all round building work.

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HOME-DESIGNER AND ARCHITECT

CONTENTS December 2021 4 Industry News 12 Heating & Ventilation 18 Bathrooms & Washrooms

24 34 42 51

Coatings & Paints Doors & Windows Landscape Sustainability

Publication Manager

01843 581364

ben@homedesignerandarchitect.co.uk

Jenna Burridge

Editor

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industry news

GREEN LIGHT FOR 24-STOREY LONDON CITY OFFICE TOWER Property developer Brockton Everlast has got the planning thumbs up for its ‘greened’ 24-storey office building in London’s Square Mile. It is the seventh major office scheme to gain planning in the City so far this year, underlying growing momentum for a new wave of major building projects post-pandemic. Brockton Everlast said the 720,000 sq ft project, which has been designed by architect AHMM to deliver exemplary green credentials, will involve a total investment of over £320m. Chair of the City Corporation’s Planning and Transportation Committee, Alastair Moss, said: “115-123 Houndsditch is the seventh office-led tall building scheme to secure planning permission in the Square Mile this calendar year. “This is not only an unprecedented number of major developments to come for decision, but it also clearly illustrates the enduring strength of the office market in the City of London and unwavering confidence from developers.” Demolition of the existing Houndsditch building and archaeological investigation will take around a year, with construction then expected to take three and a half years, employing around 660 workers on average during the build. The development design aims to reduce operational carbon emissions by 44%, compared to a Building Regulations compliant building. It will incorporate thermal stores to retain heat for use during colder months with a heat exchange scheme to share the excess waste heat, which cannot be stored, with the neighbouring Middlesex Street Estate.

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The development also includes urban greening features including green walls and landscaped terraces and balconies for office occupiers. Consultant Atelier 10 is investigating the potential for recycling the existing building’s steelwork frame and processing

clean concrete back to aggregate for concrete construction. Delivery of a LEED ‘Platinum’ and WELL ‘Platinum’ rated scheme which represents the highest level of attainment with respect to holistic environmental design and delivers a project with health and wellbeing at its core.

industry news

SYMPHONY GROUP PARTNERS WITH BARRATT DEVELOPMENTS TO CREATE FIRST ZERO CARBON HOME CONCEPT FROM A MAJOR HOUSEBUILDER Symphony Group, one of the UK’s largest manufacturers of fitted kitchen, bedroom and bathroom furniture is delighted to have partnered with leading housebuilder Barratt Developments on its unique flagship zero carbon home concept called the Z House. The Z House will be the first new home in the country built by a major housebuilder to go beyond the new Future Homes Standard[1] by delivering a carbon reduction of 125%[2]. It will be occupied and monitored over time to assess its performance. The Z House has been developed to showcase what could be achievable for the mainstream, volume housebuilder and is a realistic example of how the future of housebuilding may look in 10-20 years. As 2021 heralds Symphony Group’s 50th anniversary, with that comes a constantly evolving and improving position of sustainability in everything the brand does (full list of Symphony Group’s eco credentials below). Symphony Group and Barratt Developments share a drive for setting standards in sustainability and leading the industry by best practice example. Barratt challenged its supply chain partners to bring-in the most cutting-edge products into the house to reduce its embodied carbon and the Symphony Group delivered. The kitchen specified for this project is the Urban range in Grey Walnut, the door and drawer fronts on this range are made using 100% recycled chipboard whilst the handles contain renewable coconut fibre. In addition, the kitchen cabinets are made from 49% recycled board and the cutlery trays and drawer storage are all Hemp and Kenaf based.

Barratt Z House kitchen featuring Symphony Group’s Urban range in Grey Walnut

EV charging point feature at The Barratt Z House

The Z House is constructed using closed panel timber framed with highly insulated cladding and includes essential sustainable technology such as EV charging points, PV solar panels and battery storage. Inside, the house features electronic taps that can reduce water usage by 80%, a smart electricity tariff which automatically shifts energy usage to access the cheapest rates and a carbon neutral work surface from the Sunlit days collection from Silestone® by Cosentino - the first carbon neutral quartz surface range in the engineered stone industry. The Z House is located on the main campus at the University

of Salford and will contain a dedicated knowledge hub built into the garage to display products, technologies and results of the house so far. Robert Newton, Marketing Manager at Symphony Group, said: “The Z House is a first within the Housebuilder industry and with a history of firsts, here at Symphony we are delighted to have partnered with Barratt Developments to make this concept into a reality. We will always champion sustainable practice within the industry and are looking forward to reviewing the performance of the new house in the coming months.” For further information please visit www.symphony-group.co.uk

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industry news

TETRIS AND SANGBERG DESIGN SENIOR HOUSING AROUND A COVERED COMMUNAL COURTYARD A grid of thin cross-laminated timber columns frames communal spaces at the centre of this co-living project for senior citizens in Slagelse, Denmark, a collaboration between Danish developer Tetris and Copenhagen architecture practice Sangberg.

Ibihaven, which has been shortlisted in the housing project category of Dezeen Awards 2021, is the first project in a new concept called Agorahaverne, or Agora Gardens, creating sustainable co-housing for seniors with a focus on shared communal space. Referencing a Greek agora or town square, the blocks containing Ibihaven’s 76 apartments are arranged around a covered courtyard containing workshop, exercise, library and lounge spaces in-between a series of small gardens. The design’s community-building aspects have been supported by research carried out in collaboration with Copenhagen University and anthropology consulting firm Maple.

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industry news perimeter of the building, ensuring that is becomes an active area where residents easily encounter one another. “It is all on the residents’ own terms, and they can partake in activities as much as they see fit,” explained the developer. “There is room for everyone in Agorahaverne, and all common rooms are wheelchair accessible.” The apartments, made from prefabricated CLT modules, range from 55 square metres for single occupancy and 77 square metres for couples, each with their own bathroom and kitchen. All are oriented to be dual aspect, allowing views both into the communal central space and to the outside, with terraces and balconies at either end. To the west, a small block contains guest rooms and a communal area with a shared kitchen available to all residents, complemented by a kitchen garden in the covered courtyard.

“The atrium garden is a covered ‘urban space’ which draws nature all the way into the buildings and allows for spontaneous and disorganised meetings between residents and guests,” explained Sangberg Architects. “Research shows an increase in quality of life among residents in community living, and Agorahaverne aims to achieve the same through community events, interests, exercise and good neighbourliness,” added developer Tetris. A zig-zagging roof of corrugated polycarbonate covers the central space, which is overlooked by the patios of the apartments on the ground floor and the first-floor decks of those above.

The exterior of the blocks is clad in charred timber planks, contrasted by a pale timber lining on the deep reveals that create covered patio spaces for residents on the ground floor and balconies above. Many architects and developers are reassessing the provision for retirement and elderly living, with other recent projects including a block of retirement homes in Hampstead, London by Morris + Company for developer Pegasus Life. Other projects nominated in the housing project category of Dezeen Awards 2021 include Lina Ghotmeh’s Stone Garden apartment block in Beirut and Jackson Clements Burrows masstimber student accommodation in Melbourne.

Access to the apartments is via this central courtyard rather than the

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industry news

KIER WINS £34M SUNDERLAND EYE INFIRMARY

Kier has firmly in its sights the job to build a £34m eye hospital on Sunderland’s riverside.

The firm has just been announced as preferred contractor to design and build a new eye hospital on the Vaux West site and could now start construction in the spring. South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust and Sunderland City Council want to replace the existing 75-year-old centre with a new four-storey hospital, which has been designed by north east architects Ryder, with Turner & Townsend on board as project manager. Funding for the development has been provided by the local authority and will be repaid by

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the Trust, and plans have been fully supported by the region’s NHS. The 120,000 sq ft eye hospital will stand alongside The Beam; City Hall, which is nearing completion, and two further commercial properties that are being developed as part of Legal & General’s £100m commitment to the site. An energy centre will be located to the west of the infirmary building, comprising transformers, emergency backup generator set, medical gas storage, pump room and cold water storage tanks.

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industry news

IT’S SHOW TIME! THE IPG MAKE A REAL EVENT OF IT! On 1st October, members, and suppliers of The IPG gathered at The Mermaid Theatre London to address The Changing World of Business. Stepping into the theatre was like being in the heart of Covent Garden with street performers greeting arrivals.

The IPG biennial conference has grown into one of the most eagerly anticipated events in the group’s calendar. The pandemic of COVID-19 did nothing to alter the conference atmosphere – attendees continued to enjoy this great networking opportunity and the message was loud and clear – “The show must go on!” Facilitating the discussion of managing change while maintaining business as usual was at the heart of this year’s conference messaging – as was the underlying message that ‘we are stronger when we work together’. The day ’s programme was action-packed, it saw members have a face-to-face catch up with suppliers in the exhibitor’s area. This was followed by an afternoon in the auditorium – where attendees listened to a roster of prominent speakers, all highlighting that there are a lot of opportunities for those willing to embrace change. They also learnt about plans of the group and were entertained by various ‘stronger together’ themed acts. Flash mob dancers opened the “line-up” with an exhilarating street dance to the song ‘This is The Greatest Show’. Glenn Fisher, Managing Director of The IPG then gave a heartfelt speech, appealing to everyone to stand united, and work together. Glenn said “Those businesses that succeed and thrive, are those agile enough to continue to adapt quickly, because it is in that very change where new opportunities arise. Our partnerships are in place to seize those opportunities together and help each

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WE ARE STRONGER WHEN WE WORK TOGETHER other have more successful businesses. Because with your success comes our collective success and with our collective success the group will continue to grow stronger, together.“ Back by popular demand, the electrifying David Meade hosted the afternoon. His boundless energy and dynamic delivery captured the audience from start to finish, with out-of-this world mind reading tricks. A Keynote address from international marketeer David Abbott inspired the audience to rethink their sales strategy by showcasing various techniques to help them optimise their pricing. As always, The IPG received fantastic support from their suppliers with key sponsors Bristan and Davant taking to the stage to discuss the importance of Customer Service and British Manufacturing respectively.

And finally, the conference came to its conclusion with an evening dinner at the Leonardo Royal Hotel St Paul’s. Robin Beal, Chairman and Founder, summed up the day by saying “As you know this event only happens once in 2 years, that’s once in 728 days. For 727 days we mostly get on with our daily lives, work hard and give ourselves little praise, so let’s be unapologetic about celebrating our successful partnerships on this special occasion and this evening we are going to top it off with an enjoyable meal, great networking and having some fun!” The dinner included a ‘tongue in cheek’ awards ceremony and entertainment from Rory Bremner. A silent Auction was also held, with generous donations and bids, the group raised 9K for its charity partner Missing People #FindEveryChild.

Entertainers included Spikey Will, a legend in Covent Garden - who demonstrated his core strength with his impressive ‘bed of nails’ act. The audience also marvelled at feats of skill from the Acro-Chaps who then encouraged members and suppliers to put their core strength to the test and work together to complete a chair levitation triumph. Kaleidoscope, a light show with a difference provided the opening act to The IPG’s presentation – which focused on the group’s core strategy of providing its trading partners with the platforms to sell better.

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Heating & Ventilation

DOMUS VENTILATION REVIT® BIM FILES NOW AVAILABLE AS DIRECT DOWNLOAD FROM WWW.DOMUSVENTILATION.CO.UK Domus Ventilation, manufacturer of market-leading mechanical ventilation systems that save energy and improve indoor air quality, is pleased to announce that its full range of Revit BIM (Building Information Modelling) files can now be downloaded directly from its website, www.domusventilation.co.uk, free of charge. BIM is a government driven shared knowledge resource, providing all of the information about every component of a building, in one easy to access place. Autodesk Revit is a BIM software for architects, structural engineers, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineers, designers and contractors. It is used to create co-ordinated, consistent and complete modelbased designs that drive efficiency and accuracy across the project lifecycle, from conceptual design, visualisation and analysis to fabrication and construction. Using BIM data reduces the risk of mistakes or discrepancies at an early stage, making for more costeffective, safe construction.

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The Domus Ventilation BIM library features an extensive array of products, including energy saving, whole house Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) appliances, as well as award winning Radial semi-rigid duct systems and its full range of rigid ducting and accessories, which incorporates Domus Thermal duct insulation and duct sound attenuators. BIM ‘Object’ data on Domus Ventilation products includes detailed information such as product properties, geometry, visualisation data and functional data that enables the ‘object’ to be positioned and behave in the same manner as the product would in-situ. Airflow rates, for example, can be set at each grille or air valve,

allowing engineers to easily and more accurately estimate pressure losses and velocities within the ductwork, which isn’t possible using other design packages, such as AutoCAD. Product dimensions are automatically calculated to ensure it fits into the desired design space and even the correct amount of product required is calculated within BIM to prevent product wastage. In addition, BIM enables parts to be automatically scheduled during the design process, for speed and maximum convenience. To access Domus Ventilation’s Revit BIM files go to www.domusventilation.co.uk. For further information please contact vent. info@domusventilation.co.uk.

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In October the Government announced that from April 2022 households will be offered subsidies of £5,000 to help them make the move to low carbon heat-pumps when their boiler needs replacing. As a result of this news there has been an increased interest in Electric Heating, with many looking at it as an alternative to their gas heating. And with the UK setting a target of 2050 to be carbon neutral or net-zero, the interest will only grow.

which involve burning fossil fuels.

COP26 has been on the mouths and minds of many in the last few weeks, with world leaders coming together to help inspire climate change.

Electric boilers can be powered from renewable energy resources e.g. solar power, resources such as solar power are completely free from CO2 emissions which are helping to move towards the target of net zero emissions!

Net Zero is a term which has become more prominent and is something that the Electric Heating Company is helping to work towards. Governments are working towards a mid-century target of net-zero emissions, this means phasing out more traditional heating methods

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EHC recognise the growing demand for heating and hot water solutions that are both sustainable and ecofriendly, and are proud to say that all of our products are designed with this in mind.

In the UK alone the government intend to generate emission-free electricity by 2050, only last year they pledged 40GW of windgenerated electricity in the UK by 2030. This is enough to power every single household in the United Kingdom.

Moving to a renewable energy tariff with Electric Heating means that you’re moving to carbon-free heating which in turn helps towards a sustainable and renewable future. The Electric Heating Company are one of the foremost suppliers of electric heating and hot water products in the UK since 2005. Our product knowledge and support is unrivalled in the heating and hot water industry.

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WATERLOO AIR PRODUCTS CASE STUDY – ROYAL COLLEGE OF PHYSICIANS AT THE SPINE, LIVERPOOL The stunning £35m building The Spine in Liverpool’s dynamic Knowledge Quarter (KQ Liverpool) has opened as one of the world’s healthiest buildings, using Waterloo’s industry-leading air distribution products. Seven floors of this highly distinctive purpose-built office building, which has been designed by AHR to meet the international WELL Building Standard, will become the new northern home of the Royal College of Physicians (RCP). The Spine is the gateway to KQ Liverpool’s Paddington Village site, a vibrant new health, technology and science community developed by Liverpool City Council that has brought together many influential organisations and revitalised this corner of the city centre. Moving into The Spine marks the start of an exciting new chapter in the RCP’s 500-year history by establishing two beacons of excellence for the first time, one in London and one in Liverpool. This presents the RCP with exceptional opportunities to strengthen its standing as a world-class learning and assessment centre and to lead the improvement of patient care throughout the country. With the goal of achieving the prestigious WELL Building Standard in mind, the concept and design of the air distribution system for the new building needed to meet the highest possible specification. Working

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with consulting engineers BDP throughout RIBA Design Stages 2 & 3, Waterloo’s North West Technical Sales Manager Tony Sherlock successfully helped to establish optimum air distribution solutions that were commensurate with this challenging architectural design. A number of Waterloo’s innovative product options which would suit a wide array of feature ceiling types were considered. Through workshop sessions with the design team, the highquality CS-F Linear Slot Diffuser was collectively agreed upon as a consistent visual approach for most of the building. A key advantage of the CS-F is that it could be carefully adapted to suit the various feature ceiling types and the plank tile ceiling systems designed for the new building by SAS International. Other Waterloo products included in the air distribution design plans were Swirl Diffusers and Airline Linear Grilles, all of which were carefully selected and finished to suit the high-quality interior design throughout the building. As part of the comprehensive collaboration that Waterloo offers to its partners, Tony Sherlock produced detailed

technical schedules for all of the air terminal devices and plenum boxes for inclusion in the tender package to the project’s prospective MEP contractor. Waterloo and BDP’s expert input helped to secure the contract and in November 2020 work began on-site on the mechanical, electrical and plumbing installation. Waterloo has continued to work closely with the contractor team to refine product selections, maintain accurate air terminal schedules, deliver best value and ensure adherence to the BDP design intent. “One of the most important aspects of any successful project is reliable partnerships,” said Waterloo’s Tony Sherlock. “At Waterloo we always strive to deliver complete personal continuity throughout the project, from concept to handover. With the WELL Building Standard as a goal, we were fully confident that our air distribution system would be of the standard required to achieve this objective.” Designed by AHR, with regional director Robert Hopkins as the lead, The Spine takes its name from a distinctive staircase visible from the outside which is similar in form to vertebrae, and the façade is made up of 23 million individual polygons that represent human skin. With the highest outlook of any building in Liverpool, The Spine commands stunning views across the city and beyond to Snowdonia, the Peak District, the Pennines and along the Lancashire coast.

www.waterloo.co.uk

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Bathrooms & washrooms

We would like to firstly wish all of our customers a very merry Christmas and all the very best for 2022! We would further like to thank them all for their continued business and support in 2021. As we look back on our second year of trading since the pandemic and the challenges that continue to face us, we would like to take this opportunity to reiterate our policy of stockholding and how it is driving our company forward. ‘Last summer we saw widespread disruption to supply and many assumed by now these issues would have ironed themselves out. In fact they have worsened. Most of our competitors are still looking at long lead times. We are able to maintain the chain of supply due to our longstanding policy of stockholding which has provided further financial stability to ourselves but as importantly to our customers” As always the Sussex Range is manufactured from 100% stainless steel including our recently introduced Black Edition of powder coated rails. “More and more people are coming round to the durability and sustainability of stainless steel, particularly after the year we have just had, we all need to be aware of our environmental and social impact”

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“On a practical note our customers don’t want to go to the expense and disruption of fitting out their bathroom to 2 years down the line find that an inferior mild steel rail rusts, leaks and they then need a complete re-tile when the replacement isn’t dimensionally identical to the original” Stainless steel is 100% recyclable, and manufactured from over 90% recyclable material. It does not rust, flake or corrode. It is the sustainable, durable choice. We source our rails ethically and take our social responsibility seriously, from our sourcing, to our manufacture, to our charity initiatives. As a stable business with long term stockholding that has maintained a steady supply

throughout the pandemic we are able to do all of this whilst protecting our pricing structure. We offer 3 formats of rail throughout the entire range: Electric, dual fuel and central heating only and we offer both a polished and satin finish as well as the Black Edition Range. “The cornerstones of our business are quite simply quality, stock holding and ultimately customer service. The three work hand in hand” Should you require further details please visit our website www.sussexrange.co.uk or contact us on 01825 722988 and info@jiseurope.co.uk

Black Edition Stainless Steel Towel Rails by JIS Europe 100% stainless steel towel rails 01825 722988 www.sussexrange.co.uk info@jiseurope.co.uk

bathrooms & washrooms

ROTPUNKT 2022 UK KITCHEN TRENDS

Rotpunkt, award-winning zero carbon manufacturer of premium German kitchen furniture offer its expert know-how on the latest kitchen trends to hit the UK marketplace in 2022. Rotpunkt is proud to present a new collection of high concept kitchen designs and solutions in 2022, which are sustainably manufactured and rigorously product-tested to meet the highest eco-design standards. Here are some of the key trends the company feels you should look out for next year: STYLE: Calm industrial - The iconic industrial design style is set to be reinvented next year, with a softer colour palette helping to place new emphasis on timber finishes and iconic features, which move away from the slab door to welcome modern in-frame and vertical fin design options. Calm industrial kitchen schemes will also be space sensitive, providing a wealth of open and closed furniture solutions in 2022 with canopy-style storage and wall panelling systems creating lifestyle-friendly kitchen spaces that support individual needs and living habits. PALETTE: Natural – Indoor outdoor living is going to be big in 2022 and so botanical greys and greens will be met with raw timber finishes ranging from light oak to rich, dark black. Design integrity will be achieved through a well-considered balance of block colours and natural design effects, offset by matt black hardware and accessories like appliances and storage systems through to lighting and essential fixtures and fittings. LAYOUT: Modular - Industry forecasts indicate that versatile pieces of furniture that create a more flexible home environment

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will top the charts in 2022, with integrated wall and ceiling storage systems through to all-inclusive islands with space to cook, dine and do business. Brokenplan, modular arrangements will be the layout of choice, able to accommodate dedicated kitchen, living and utility areas with designed-in storage to ensure minimal disruption to the ground floor. Modular furniture will add to the overall flexibility in the space, with statement furniture solutions developing around the traditional cook zone and becoming the building blocks of the contemporary kitchen. MANUFACTURE: Eco friendly – Mindful consumerism continues to be a priority for anyone seeking to make a difference and address climate change in the home. Recognising the ‘power of the purchase’ will be crucial in 2022, with big ticket items like the kitchen helping to reduce environmental impact and promote a greener way of life. In this way, the latest furniture trends are embracing all of the new design possibilities being achieved when using recycled materials and so renewable wood alternatives will prove their worth next year as an eco-friendly option that does not sacrifice on style or quality. For further information on Rotpunkt UK, please email matt.phillips@rotpunktuk.com or visit www.rotpunktkuechen.de/en/

HEAD OF UK OPERATIONS AT ROTPUNKT, MATT PHILLIPS EXPLAINS, “2022 IS GOING TO BE A LANDMARK YEAR FOR THE BLENDED KITCHEN SPACE, AS THE MARKET IS PRIMED TO BRING THE VERY BEST IN LIFE-ENHANCING KITCHEN DESIGN TO THE CONTEMPORARY HOME. OUR RESEARCH SHOWS THAT THE MODERN KITCHEN WILL BE REINVENTED NEXT YEAR WITH INDUSTRIAL-STYLE SPACES BECOMING MORE VISUALLY QUIET AND GENDER NEUTRAL IN TERMS OF COLOURS, MATERIALS AND FINISHES. PRESENTING A TRUE DEMOCRACY FOR TODAY’S LIFESTYLE, THE KITCHEN OF TOMORROW WILL BE CONTEMPORARY IN STYLE AND SPATIALLY ERGONOMIC WITH THE VERY BEST SUSTAINABLE FURNITURE FORMING THE BASIS OF EACH SCHEME.”

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ABODE SWICH WINS SBID INTERNATIONAL DESIGN AWARD 2021

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Abode, award-winning designer of market leading kitchen taps, sinks, bathroom taps & showering solutions is among the top-tier global design talent to be awarded an SBID International Design Award 2021, as it’s crowned the winner of the Kitchen Product awards category for its innovative water filter system, Abode Swich → www.sbidawards.com/ finalist-pda/swich/ The 2021 SBID International Design Awards winners were revealed at the Nobu Hotel Portman Square in London on Friday 22 October, each presented with a prestigious crystal awards trophy, designed by Sans Souci Glass Deco. Shining a spotlight on the world’s brightest design talent, the creative A&D community came together in a global celebration of interior design excellence to celebrate the industry’s most revered interior designers and makers. Abode Swich is a revolutionary design solution that will transform a new or existing kitchen tap in to a filtered water tap that delivers a constant supply of crystal clear filtered water! The exclusive and patented Swich water filter system is a discreet yet ultra-luxe device, which is easy to use and install, either retro-fit in an existing kitchen or add to a new kitchen design. Swich works in conjunction with your normal kitchen mixer tap to improve the overall taste, appearance and quality of your drinking water without compromising on style. Available in four high fashion finishes – Brushed Brass, Matt Black, Brushed Nickel and Chrome – simply turn the Round or Square control handle to indicate the type of water supply you wish to

channel through the tap. Providing immediate access to both the domestic water supply and Abodesafe water, via the Swich filter cartridge, customers can enjoy clear refreshing results, every time! Paul Illingworth, Design Manager at Abode says, “For the first time, our customers are not restricted to the style of tap they can have in their kitchen and now, they can enjoy fresh filtered tap water while removing the need for a countertop water purifier or bottled water, which we all know is harmful to the environment.” “To be recognised by SBID and its panel of leading industry experts is a great achievement for Abode, acknowledging Swich for its outstanding examples of technical innovation, aesthetic creativity and fit-for-purpose functionality.” “Achieving an SBID Award is an unparalleled marque of design excellence.” “As another year draws to a close, the SBID Awards continues to empower the design industry to exhibit their creative work and celebrate their achievements on its inclusive stage, as a testament to the incredible outcomes that can be accomplished through the power of good design and quality craftsmanship” says the SBID International Design Awards.

The featured images also include a range of market leading kitchen sinks and taps by Abode, including: 1. Swich Chrome with Virtue Semi-Professional Mixer Tap with flexible hose & Matrix R50 undermount Sink 2. Swich Matt Black with Linear Nero Monobloc Mixer Tap & Londa Single Bowl Sink & Drainer, Black Metallic 3. Swich Brushed Brass with Prime Single Lever Mixer Tap & Matrix R0 Large Single Bowl Sink NOTE: Swich Brushed Nickel available, in either a Round or Square handle design For further information, please contact Abode: t: 01226 283 434 | e: info@abodedesigns.co.uk | w: www.abodedesigns.co.uk | For the latest news & company updates, please follow Abode on Pinterest, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn #WaterTheWayYouWantIt

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coatings & paints

MODULAR CONSTRUCTION MARKET KEY SEALANT TAPE GROWTH, SAYS ISO CHEMIE The modular house construction market will help to drive window and door foam sealant tape growth in 2022, predicts Andy Swift, sales and operations manager for ISO-Chemie. He sees the UK market staying buoyant over the next 12 months as the economy continues to recover from the pandemic and building and construction activity remains busy, particular in the face of a chronic national housing shortage and the need to build more affordable housing. This will see construction projects ‘surge’ ahead with cost effective products such as foam sealant tapes, which deliver improved energy performance and efficiencies, increasingly specified for retrofit applications and new projects. In the modular sector, house designers are currently looking at new ways to deliver low carbon structures, which use sustainable technologies to deliver measurable airtight, acoustic and thermal sealing benefits. 2021 has been the best ever trading year for the ISO Chemie - sales are up 45% - and Andy Swift says the modular construction market will be a key target for further growth going forward over the next 12 months. “Modular construction is gaining increasing traction and next year will see continued integration of the system with the more traditional methods of building, enabling developers to bring forward housing projects more expediently,” he adds. “Our ISO BLOCO range of sealant tapes and the WINFRAMER thermal insulating and load bearing bracket support system can add real value during the initial and post construction phases, so I expect to see more interest in these and other products in 2022 and beyond.” Andy Swift also points out that the amendment to the building regulations currently coming into

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force are set to have an impact as energy ratings for buildings and property become stricter proposed changes to Part L 2021 lay out a government roadmap to zero carbon and future homes standard. These include energy and ventilation standards for residential and non-domestic buildings that are far better for the environment and fit for the future, says Andy Swift, who adds: “Higher air and thermal standards for house construction will be a priority. This is an important message that will continued to be pushed to architects and other property specifiers over the next 12 months.

With energy rated and conservation products continuing to be at the forefront of design and building regulations, there will be ‘discernible’ growth for air tightness and thermal sealing products. “There are effective products out there to ensure that airtightness and thermal efficiency within buildings should never be overlooked or ignored - it’s a matter of designing in these products,” Andy Swift says. More at www.iso-chemie.eu/ en-GB/home/

WOOD REPAIR FILLER (NATURAL) EASY TO SHAPE & QUICK DRYING ON INTERIORS & EXTERIORS     

WORKING TIME: 30 MINUTES EASY TO SAND COMPATIBLE WITH ALL PAINTS & COATINGS CAN BE DRILLED & SCREWED LOW ODOUR

TOUPRET SA - 24 rue du 14 juillet - 91813 CORBEIL ESSONNES Cedex - RCS Evry B 964 201 859 – Mise à jour Mars 2021

PURPOSE Quick drying powder filler. Great for shaping and form work on all types of wood, indoors and out. It has no depth limit and offers excellent adhesion. Can be stained or painted with any type of conventional paint, varnish or stain after 3 hours.

PACKAGING Box: 1kg and 2kg. RECOMMENDATIONS and care for use The times mentioned are indicative and depend on the substrate, coat thickness, and the ambient conditions. Do not apply at a temperature below 5°C or above 35°C nor at a relative humidity over 80%.

SUBSTRATES Wood Repair Filler can be applied to any type of wood, including common exotic species, chipboard and plywood. For optimal results, apply Wood Hardener beforehand. SUBSTRATES PREPARATION Substrates to be prepared as per the current trade practices. Substrates must be hard, cohesive, clean, sound and dry. OVERCOATING Wood Repair Filler can be overcoated by any type of conventional paints, varnishes and stains.

Physical and technical FEATURES • Wood Repair Filler: is a filler in powder form, for interior or exterior use, made of mineral extracts and selected binders. • Characterization (NFT 36-005): Family IV - class 4c. • Codification (NFT 30-608): G3E5S2V0W0A0C0. • Mixing rate: add 300ml water per 1kg powder (30%). • Application thickness: no depth limit. • Capacity: 1kg fills 1L when mixed. • Working time: 30 minutes. • Setting time: second coat as soon as the filler is hard and dry to the touch. • Overcoating: can be painted in 3 hours average time (after complete drying). • Color: natural wood. • Adhesion: filler/substrate (NF T 30 608): > 0.8 Mpa. USE AND STORAGE CONDITIONS  Application tools: filling knife, trowel or blade.  Tool cleaning: after use, product residue can be rubbed off tools when dry (water cleaning is not necessary).  Preservation: product guaranteed 6 months. Stored away from humidity. If found to be faulty within the guarantee period, we will arrange a replacement on proof of purchase.

TOUPRET (UK) LIMITED • CAPITAL BUSINESS CENTRE • UNIT 58, 22 CARLTON ROAD • SOUTH CROYDON CR2 0BS Tel: +44 (0)208 916 2134 • WWW.TOUPRET.CO.UK

NORMATIVE DOCUMENTS to be referred to  NFT 30-608: Coating fillers for interior works and/or exterior. HEALTH AND SAFETY It is recommended to wear gloves and glasses while applying Wood Repair Filler. Always wear a dust mask when sanding. Dispose of unused product and packaging responsibly at your local waste collection centre. Safety data sheet available at www.toupret.co.uk The data sheet information, especially the guidelines relevant to the application and final use of the product are provided in good faith and result from TOUPRET’s experience and knowledge of the products. The product should be used as per the trade practices rules book and in reference to our recommendations. The information provided is relevant to applications processed at a temperature of 20°C, a relative humidity of 50% and on average absorbency substrates. The times mentioned are only indicative and depend on the substrate, the coat thickness, and the ambient conditions.

* Information on the emission level of volatile substances into indoor air, presenting a risk of toxicity by inhalation, on a scale from A+ (very low emissions) to C (high emissions).

its

coatings & paints

Toupret expands its one coat offering with new interior 28 surfaces Quick Fill

June 2021 28 th

Toupret, the professional’s choice for quality wall fillers, has today improved its Toupret expands its one coat offering with new interior surfaces Qu oneQuick coatFill ofcollection fering wiwith th naewnew intinterior erior surfaces surfacesproduct Quick that Fillis readyto-paint in Toupret, the professional’s choice for quality wall fillers, has today just 30 minutes. its Quick Fill collection with a new interior surfaces product that to-paint in just 30 minutes.

essional’s choice for quality wall fillers, has today improved Toupret’s professional interior and exterior Quick Fill products off llection with a new interior interior surfaces one coat that repair. is All readyare lightweight, ready mixed and provide a qua Toupret’s professional and exterior Quick Fill product professionals can rely on from a brand with over 80 years of expertis 30 minutes. products offer a fast one coat repair. All are lightweight, ready mixed and provide a quality that professionals can

The new interior surfaces Quick Fill product from Toupret is fast-dryi

to paint in just 30 minutes) and it can be filled to any depth with no ional rely interior and with exterior Quick Fill products a isfast on from a brand over 80 years of expertise. or slumping.offer Quick Fill also easy to sand and there is no need to s before painting over it that as it will not flash or grin through the p All are lightweight, ready mixed and provide a quality Available as a tub in either 1L or 4L sizes. There is no limit on work interior surfaces Quick product80 from Toupretof rely The onnew from a brand withFillover years expertise. ensuring a versatile solution for many types of job.

is fast-drying (ready to paint in just 30 minutes) and it can no shrinkage or slumping. surfacbe esfilled Quto icany k Fdepth ill with product from ToupretQuick is fast-drying (ready Fill is also easy to sand and there is no need spot prime 0 minutes) and it can be filled totoany depth with no shrinkage paintingeasy over it to as it sand will not flash grin through the need to spot prime k Fillbefore is also and orthere is no paintwork. Available as a tub in either 1L or 4L sizes. There ver it as it will not flash or grin through the paintwork. is no limit on working time, ensuring a versatile solution for b in either 1L or 4L sizes. There is no limit on working time, many types of job.

ile solution for many types of job.

Also, part of the one coat family but for outside repairs, is the surfaces Quick Fill product. This ready mixed, lightweight, and rea filler can be applied to cement, concrete, and masonry as well as pl old painted surfaces. It can be painted over in just one hour. It o same high quality Toupret finish and performance of no depth limit shrinking or slumping. Plus, it’s of rich in resin for and extra strength The Quick Fill launch is part a major rebrand really can quickly move from job to job with the reassurance of doin product reorganisation for Toupret. The exterior and doing it well. The exterior quick fill is available as a 1L and 4 applications both small and large. surfaces collection is now signified with an orange

colourway whilst the interior surfaces range is branded in red, offering a striking shelf point of difference.

With the goal of making a great quality filling job simpler and quicker for professionals, Toupret also wanted to make it much easier for tradespeople to choose the best product for any given task. As such, many of the products have been renamed to make their application as clear as possible. However, Toupret knows it has a loyal customer base and part of the one coat but outside for outside repairs, is e one Also, coat family butfamily for repairs, isthethe externames ior remain discreetly on so old product the exterior This surfacesready Quick Fillmixed, product. This ready mixed, ll product. lightweight, and ready to usefamiliarity for all whilst the packaging to ensure lightweight, and ready to use filler can be applied to cement, lied to cement, concrete, and masonry as wellintroducing as plaster and product descriptions – new simplified as wellover as plaster old painted ces. concrete, It canand bemasonry painted inand just one hour. It offers for example ‘exteriorthe surfaces Quick Fill will appear surfaces.finish It can be painted over in just one hour. y Toupret and performance ofIt offers no depthalongside limit, and no the historical ‘Touprelex’ product name. same high qualityrich Toupret finish and performance of ping.thePlus, it’s in resin for extra strength – so you no from depth limit, no job shrinking or slumping. Plus, it’s rich Bothdoing Quick Fillit products y move jobandto with the reassurance of onceare available to purchase in resin for extra strength – so you really can quickly move from trade distributors nationwide. . The exterior quick fill is available as a 1L and 4L tub for from job to job with the reassurance of doing it once and small and large. https://www.toupret.co.uk/ doing it well. The exterior quick fill is available as a 1L and 4L tub for applications both small and large.

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coatings & Paints

REMEDIAL BASEMENT WATERPROOFING TO COMMERCIAL STRUCTURE Overview Waterproofing design is a key and critical component for successful construction of below ground structures. Whether it’s a completely new build or making smaller changes to an existing property, waterproofing design should never be overlooked. Waterproofing might account for just a small fraction of a building’s total cost, but waterproofing defects can result in catastrophic consequences. When waterproofing fails, the implications are significant. Delta’s MD, Kevin Dodds was approached to offer advice and guidance on a failed waterproofing system. The existing structure had an impressive 5-level basement which houses: kitchens, food storage and food preparation areas, spa, plant rooms and accommodation. Near to a large river, the site sited well within the water table. The original waterproofing system was based on the secant piled walls and a block wall internally to provide a basic drained protection system with drainage holes at various points to drain to various levels. Over time, the third floor had become completely saturated with all levels of the basement experiencing water ingress in varying levels from damp patches to significant “jets” of water and flows of water through the secant piles. With remediation waterproofing design strategies, it may take some time to specify a suitable system. It is important that investigations are thoroughly carried out by individuals with the capability of diagnosing the defect, assessing the extent of that defect, and recommending a suitable corrective measure.

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Methodology

Phase 1

Products used

Following preliminary site inspections, discussions were held on remedial options, methodology for remedial works and cost.

Following trials and analysis of approach, Kevin suggested the use of Koster G4 Gel as a curtain injection to areas identified after exposure works to each area, in combination with Koster 2 IN 1 injection resin to the corbel detail. Each area would be injected and monitored for a period of 3 weeks prior to the installation of the Delta Type C cavity drain system. To achieve a full belts and bridges approach, further tweaks to the design would be incorporated as and when different degrees of water ingress was encountered or where concrete to the scant piles were particularly poor, this included increasing levels of the G4 salt accelerant to the G4 Gel to increase speed of reaction without compromising the ability to spread to create the “waterproof curtain” behind the piles in the area.

• • • • • • • • • • • •

During site observations significant water was sitting behind the corbel. This water could be entering the structure either: directly through the piles, from the floor above or from the joint between the soffit and piles or a combination of all three. When designing a robust waterproofing remediation approach, attention to detail is critical. Balancing costs with quality, method suitability testing was carried out on trial areas. A combination of resin injections and curtain injection were proposed prior to the installation of a Type C cavity drain membrane system to facilitate performance levels. Alternative combinations were suggested on two trial areas. Firstly, the secant piles were exposed and thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt, salts, and loose particles. Whilst slow flowing leaks and drips could be sealed with resin injections alone, any fast-flowing water ingress was stopped in advance of injection works with the use of Koster KD Blitz 2. Koster 2 IN 1 was injected into the corbel area with Koster IN 7 being injected into the vertical joints between the piles. It was observed following inspections, over a 5-week period, that the corbel area was dry. Delta’s MD, Kevin Dodds suggested a further monitoring period, or until two periods of heavy rain to assess performance levels.

As the entire sub-structure was susceptible to hydrostatic pressure, the best approach to the 5-levels would be to work one level at a time, working downwards in sequence.

Phase 2 The principles of the Type C, cavity drain system were straightforward and typical of a multi-level basement. Additional design considerations were incorporated for detailing the corbel on which mid floor slabs required a careful approach. Kevin suggested increasing the number of downward drainage weepholes from upper to lower levels for continued access for maintenance, along with discharge points. In addition to this approach, compartmentalisation of the cavity drainage system was required for fire safety.

Koster IN 7 Koster 2 IN 1 Koster G4 Gel Koster KD2 Blitz Koster Waterstop Koster NB 1 Koster Repair Mortar Plus Koster KB Flex 200 Delta MS 500 Delta MS 20 Delta Drainage Channel Dual V3 Pumps, Alertmaxx 2 High level alarms

Case Study Results When it comes to remedial waterproofing, a great waterproofing outcome is with waterproofing experts. This project has been one of partnering, from our partners at Koster UK to the main contractor, sub-contractor, and Delta Registered Installers Prestec Ltd who expertly installed the remedial solution. Partnering in this project has been one of open communication, commitment of shared goals and mutual trust. The timeframe for these remedial works were over a - year period, with works to levels 2 and 3 having already been completed. The overall strategy, continuous trials, site monitoring and the ability to adapt the overall waterproofing design throughout the project have enabled completion of the works to date to an incredibly high standard with all parties confident with the positive and collaborative approach. Technical Waterproofing Consultants can assist with the right products for the right results, whilst using the correct methodology.

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OUTSIDE SPACES | EXPAND YOUR HOME AND LIFESTYLE WITH A DAVAL GARDEN ROOM Daval Furniture, award-winning British designer and manufacturer of quality fitted furniture look ahead to SS22 with this bespoke garden room project complete with outdoor kitchen living space in partnership with local oak building specialists, Paragon Oak. Both award-winning companies are based in West Yorkshire, a mere 11 miles apart, so it was easy for the lead designers to collaborate to create a Daval kitchen living space within a Paragon Oak oak-framed building for a manor house in West Yorkshire. This instantly added an extra dimension to the living and entertaining spaces available for family members and guests in the client’s rural property. The Mayfair kitchen in Talpa, a contemporary matt finish in taupe, is the ideal choice to complement the natural oak hues of the timber. Simon Bodsworth, Managing Director at Daval says, “We all really enjoyed working with Paragon Oak to install a made-to-measure kitchen to enhance indoor outdoor living for the client. We are very proud to partner with other experts in our vibrant local design community so that we can pool our knowledge and develop new concepts together. With an upsurge in investing in the home and garden predicted for 2022, the luxury kitchen market is willing and able to support property owners and developers who are keen to optimise their surroundings as home comforts continue to be of prime importance.” Daval was commissioned to design and install the custom made cabinetry and also sourced and supplied the fixtures and fittings including

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the dining table and chairs. James Bodsworth, Design Director at Daval says, “We are really pleased that our design team and Design Partners nationwide are being recognised as experts in creating lifestyle interiors in which custom-made kitchens play a key role. As sustainability is fast becoming a must-have element in all interior projects, we are proud that all our raw materials are sourced from reputable suppliers and that we have a closed-loop production system which minimises carbon emissions and waste products.”

luxe minimalist feel of the space with marble-effect worktops, integrated fridge and a Neff induction hob.

Each Mayfair cabinet by Daval is sustainably sourced and takes a fresh approach to Scandi-style design, with a smooth matt finish slab doors which are easy to clean and maintain. Made-to-measure and made-to-order for every project to suit the property and the needs of the home owner, this classic u-shaped kitchen includes a floor-to-ceiling storage with an integrated fridge freezer and induction hob, deep drawers and generous cupboards for storage on the working side of the peninsula with room to seat four in comfort at the breakfast bar. The Scandi theme continues with designer Wishbone seating, matt black knurled Buster + Punch cabinet pulls, industrial-style pendant lights and bespoke wall-mounted shelving. A breakfast bar with stylish rustic three-legged bar stools enhances the

•

Including the featured Talpa option, Mayfair is available in five hand painted modern matt finishes: Frost White, Dove Grey, Cashmere and Charcoal. The Garden Room project by Daval features: • •

Furniture - Mayfair in Talpa hand painted finish by Daval Hardware - Knurled matt black handles by Buster + Punch Worktops - by Daval via local fabrication partner

Built from sustainably sourced materials and precision engineered in Britain, the Mayfair Furniture Collection by Daval is made-to-order and made-to-measure. Prices start from £12,000+vat. Watch this space for more Daval Design Collaborations in 2021/22 and in the meantime, please contact: Daval Furniture - t 01484 848 500 | e enquiries@daval-furniture.co.uk | w www.daval-furniture.co.uk | Instagram: @davalfurniture | Twitter: @Daval_Furniture | Daval House, Spa Fields Industrial Estate, New St, Slaithwaite, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire HD7 5BB,

Extemely weather & UV resistant Very water and dirt resistant Reduces wood swelling and shrinkage Resists the growth of algae, mildew & fungal attack Microporous, breathable finish No sanding necessary for future applications

LET IT SNOW, LET IT SNOW, LET IT SNOW – BUT NOT UNTIL YOU’VE PREPPED YOUR RENTAL PROPERTY!

• LettingaProperty.com shares tips for dealing with the seasonal dip in demand • Winter maintenance is about more than insulating pipes • Good communication with tenants is a core factor for winter rentals Chattering teeth, woolly hats, dark evenings and perhaps even the potential for snow. Yes, it’s winter in the UK once again, with festive joy on the not-too-distant horizon. For landlords, though, there’s plenty to think about before the tinsel and paperchains come out.

Jonathan Daines, Founder and CEO, LettingaProperty.com

“November and December are known for bringing a fall in lettings activity. And decreased tenant demand isn’t the only issue facing landlords – letting properties during the winter months also means there’s plenty to think about from a maintenance perspective.”

LettingaProperty.com’s top tips for winter lettings

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Thankfully, rental platform LettingaProperty.com, has shared plenty of steps that landlords can take to ensure their lettings survive the usual seasonal upheaval.

For landlords looking for tenants during the winter months, one quick win is to fix all those minor repairs that can take the shine off a property. Tackling loose cupboard

doors, wonky drawer handles, and dilapidated garden fences can make a surprising difference to a potential tenant’s first impression of a property. With the home in tip top condition, it’s then important to photograph it beautifully, whether for a traditional listing or 360° tour. Using a professional to capture the property at its best could pay dividends here. Landlords also need to pay careful attention to how they describe their property when

advertising it, avoiding generic language and highlighting the home’s best features to ensure the property stands out from the crowd. Marketing across multiple platforms can also help.

condensation, mould or damp. However, landlords should avoid the temptation to keep the windows shut all the time, as air flow and ventilation are also key to avoiding condensation and damp.

When it comes to protecting a rental home from the cold, there are plenty of steps that landlords can take. If the property is empty, it can be tempting to leave the heating off. However, this runs the risk of the pipes freezing and bursting, so it’s much better to leave the heating on low. In addition, any exposed pipework will need attention – insulation tubes are a cost effective and easy way to reduce the risk of freezing. They are certainly far cheaper than the hundreds of pounds worth of damage that a burst pipe can cause. Landlords can protect external taps with insulation tubes as well.

Keeping a rental property’s boiler serviced is, of course, essential throughout the year. In addition, landlords should bleed the radiators as part of their winter maintenance work.

Keeping the property warm will also help to combat any

Given the spiralling cost of energy bills during the winter, and particularly this winter, landlords might also like to consider using the winter months to switch supplier, with a view to making a saving. Outside the property, it’s important to keep gutters and roofs clear and in good repair. Guttering that is clogged with autumn leaves and moss is unlikely to direct water away from the house efficiently, creating potential problems with damp and mould.

Finally, landlords need to make sure they have relevant insurance in place, as the property is more likely to sustain damage over the winter months than in the summer. “Good communication with the tenant is also crucial to successful winter lettings. After all, tenants who have a good relationship with their landlord are likely to make more effort to keep the property in good condition. And if heavy snow, local flooding or other extreme weather is expected, the landlord and tenant can agree an emergency plan and share ways to contact each other if required. By working in partnership, they can ensure that the property will still be in tip top condition come spring.” Jonathan Daines, Founder and CEO, LettingaProperty.com For more information, please visit www.lettingaproperty.com or call 020 3322 2052.

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doors & windows

EUROCELL MODUS

FILLS BATH WITH LIGHT “The foil gives an appearance like timber and the colour palette includes the heritage type colours that fit in with a period environment such as Bath,” comments Paul.

eritage colours and kerbside appeal were among the factors that persuaded the planning authorities of Bath that Modus PVC-U windows from Eurocell – the UK’s leading manufacturer, distributor and recycler of window, door, conservatory and roofline products – were the appropriate alternative to timber on a prime, exposed location near the UNESCO World Heritage Site. “The planners originally wanted timber windows but that wouldn’t work for our designs because we wanted to install matching fascias and soffits that fitted beneath considerable eaves. This is on an exposed site at the top of a steep hill so they wouldn’t look great for very long,” explains Paul Baker, Regional Managing Director for Bloor Homes South West. “Timber windows, fascias and soffits would require expensive maintenance because of the scaffolding required to paint them. These PVC-U alternatives not only have kerb-appeal but are maintenance-free”. Bloor Homes South West had also had experience of the product at other developments throughout the region and had found it answered planning department concerns. It worked with the Eurocell New Build division, which supplied four samples to show the various colours that might work on site and to demonstrate the slim, timber-like sight lines of the Modus system.

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Once the Bath and North East Somerset planning department was happy with Bloor’s proposal to use Modus windows in Hazy Grey, it gave the go-ahead for the same product range, but in Agate Grey, to be used at an adjacent development from the other housebuilder. BBA certified to function satisfactorily for more than 35 years, the Modus range has a U-value of 1.2 W/m² using 4/20/4 mm sealed double-glazed units. This effective thermal performance is due to the 75mm six-chamber profile system used in the Modus that enables the range to achieve a U-value as low as 0.7 by installing triple-glazed units.

Consisting of 50% post-consumer recycled PVC-U as standard, this range of doors and windows has a smaller carbon footprint than products made or recycled outside of the UK. Eurocell achieves this by employing dual material extrusion technolog y (DMET) that layers post-consumer recycled and ‘virgin’ material simultaneously, so the recycled material is concentrated in the central core of the profiles where it cannot be seen once the door or window is installed. Read the full story here or visit Eurocell.co.uk for more information on how Eurocell can help with your next project.

THE FOIL GIVES AN APPEARANCE LIKE TIMBER AND THE COLOUR PALETTE INCLUDES THE HERITAGE TYPE COLOURS THAT FIT IN WITH A PERIOD ENVIRONMENT SUCH AS BATH.”

It’s a no brainer Sleek lines with sustainability at the core — Modus PVC-U windows At a glance: Clean and contemporary looks with slimmer sight lines – unlike traditional PVC-U windows. Advanced engineering technology – achieves the new A++ Window Energy Rating and a 0.7 U-value. Sustainability as standard – manufactured using 50% recycled material. Saves money – costs up to 50% less than equivalents.

Standard sash

Slim rebate sash

Discover more reasons to choose Modus:

0333 015 3523 or visit eurocell.co.uk/modus

Made&Recycled

in the

UK.

Fully flush sash

Performance Doors

learly, throughout 2020 the pandemic affected a lot of businesses with lockdowns in several of its key markets, staff on furlough at both its customers and suppliers and major door projects cancelled or placed on hold, all adding to a subdued and frustrating trading period. “Our particular need to further test and develop products was also badly hit,” explains Steven Dennard, who looks after Moralt’s International Sales. “Test institutes were unable to offer their services and lack of available finances to fund these developments meant we were all especially happy and eager to welcome 2021.” “A slower start to the year began to show signs of promise in the Spring and our two-week acoustic test package at IFT in Arnsberg, northern Germany with the support of Mann McGowan showed some excellent product performances and assisted the mood greatly. Our FireSound Xtreme FD120 door now performs acoustically to Rw dB44 as a single leaf door, and as pair, dB43, making this our strongest acoustic product, which at only 58mm thick, is excellent. Further confirmed positive acoustic performances

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within the internal “Laminesse” door range with concealed hinges and concealed door closers means that our acoustic door offer has become a lot stronger for contract specifiers. “A fire door test package FD60 to BS 476 Pt. 22 at DMT in Lathen, Germany in early September in part to compliment the March acoustic testing covering concealed closers and hinges, was our next larger testing programme. Moralt FireSound was the principle focus of these tests and we included an RFID access solution from Assa Abloy in the test doors as well so that specifiers could consider a high acoustic, fire rated door products with electronic card readers for use in hospitality , education, healthcare and administrative environments. The tested doors were all 2440 x 1000mm in size so that we might see a good size scope added to our already comprehensive acoustic and fire range of doors.” 2021 has seen the business continue to make significant investment, for example with the introduction of Hubspot, a CRM system which enables the company to manage product enquiries from around the globe

Klaus Feile, Managing Director, Moralt AG

Image supplied by Assa Abloy

2022 PROMISES TO OPEN NEW DOORS

FOR MORALT AG

Despite a number of challenges and disruptions, 2021 has proved to be a very good year for the specialist German producer of certified technical door solutions.

more quickly and efficiently. “With this system in place, sales enquiries can be considered in line with our R&D work that is so critical in serving our customer’s requirements,” Steven added. Plus, in the Autumn, the company began work on a UL door test package for Spring 2022 which will appeal to existing markets in the Middle East as well as being the basis of its future commercial work in North America.

2021 has been an extremely successful year for us with strong sales from the UK, European and Middle East markets. In addition, the introduction of FireSmoke and FireSound Xtreme (FD90 and FD120) as stock items at both UK distributors - James Latham and Falcon Panel Products - means that we now offer a full suite of FD30, 60, 90 and 120 fire ratings with our sustainable, certified timber door blanks but also a solid acoustic range too with dB40 and beyond acoustic performances in all fire categories.

“In September we exhibited at our first face to face show for almost two years, the Big 5 in Dubai which saw heightened interest in our FireSound high acoustic and fire rated door cores, as well as our timber external door core range. It was great once more to be able to engage with people directly from around the globe and it proved to be a major success for us.”

Klaus added, “Throughout this difficult period, we have used the time effectively, continuing to invest in the business with the latest technology to deliver innovative solutions across both our production facility and processing systems. This will ensure that we are in the best possible position for future growth which is expected to continue through 2022.”

Managing Director Klaus Feile echoes mism. “Despite the lenges presented by

Moralt-ag.de info@moralt-ag.de

at Moralt AG, Steven’s optiongoing chalthe pandemic,

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A WELCOME RETURN FOR DAVE NEWTON

P C Henderson is pleased to welcome back, Dave Newton to the sales and commercial team as he takes on his new role as Sales and Commercial Director. Dave will be responsible for the strategic direction and development of the commercial side of the business including sales, customer service and marketing. Dave first worked for P C Henderson from 2001 until 2009 and has since developed his career within the sliding and folding door gear industry. Commenting on his return to the company, Dave said, “It is great to be back at P C Henderson, a company that has always enjoyed an enviable reputation within the industry and with customers. The business has evolved significantly since I was last here and I am ready for this new challenge.” As well as the UK market, P C Henderson enjoys sales globally with customers in 70+ countries. The company has a strong research and development ethos, continually delivering the most innovative and creative products to builders’ merchants, architects, contractors, and home improvement companies. This appealed to Dave as he explained, “I am very impressed with the continual

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investment P C Henderson makes in the design and development of new products. Creating improved solutions keeps the business at the forefront of the industry and provides greater choice for our customers.” Despite the challenges of the global pandemic, the business has enjoyed impressive growth and exceeded its sales targets for the last twelve months. Managing Director, Trevor Cossins commented, “Dave has a lot of experience, not only of the sliding and folding door hardware industry but of P C Henderson itself. I am looking forward to working with Dave to further develop the commercial offer and build on what we have achieved to date. Covid19 has impacted businesses across the world and with our flexibility and responsive business practices we have been able to adapt and thrive.” Based in Co. Durham, P C Henderson has one of the most technically advanced manufacturing systems of its

kind, consistently achieving ISO 9001 quality certification. The company has a wide network of distributors and representatives and exports to over 70 countries worldwide. Talking about the challenge ahead, Dave said, “The time was right to return to a business that I know can grow and deliver exceptional products and levels of service. I am excited to see what we can achieve in the next twelve months.” The focus of the business in recent months has been on improving the customer journey for both existing and new clients, and as part of this, will soon launch a new website for the UK. The new website will have improved functionality and search along with the highest levels of security for online payments. Payment options will be increased to include Apple Pay and Paypal as well as traditional card payment options. In addition, there will be secure online account access for customers to store, review and re-order products. www.pchenderson.com

www.firmanglass.com

Shopspec_glazingexcellence-2018:Firman 01/03/2018 17:04 Page 1

Established in 1975 Firman Glass is one of the leading

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Tel: 01708 374534 Fax: 01708 340511 Email: sales@firmanglass.com Firman Further Glass,19 Bates Road, Harold Wood, Romford, Essex RM3 OJH information is available from our sales and technical offices or visit www.firmanglass.com Tel: 01708 374534 Fax: 01708 340511 Email: sales@firmanglass.com Firman Glass,19 Bates Road, Harold Wood, Romford,In association Essexwith RM3 OJH Tel: 01708 374534 Fax: 01708 340511 Email: sales@firmanglass.com In association with In association with

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COASTLINE® COMPOSITE CLADDING – WEATHERPROOF, LIGHTWEIGHT AND EASY TO INSTALL Coastline is an innovative composite cladding system that lifts the appearance of any property, adding up to 10-years of guaranteed weatherproof performance. It’s made from a unique composite material that means it’s incredibly resilient, yet amazingly easy to work with and fit. What’s really revolutionary though is that Coastline has minimal contraction or expansion, whatever the weather conditions. Weatherproof Once, if you wanted to be sure your exterior cladding was really weatherproof, you had the option of timber boards – good looking, but high maintenance – or cement board. Durable, but difficult and dusty to work with. Newer, lightweight PVC-U and foam cladding have made things easier, of course. But because of expansion and contraction as they heat up and cool down, an extra membrane is often needed. And that can make the job more complex and time consuming. So, Coastline, with its unique composite formulation with reduced thermal expansion and contraction as the temperature varies, is a true breakthrough. Plus, it’s guaranteed to go on performing with little movement and practically no maintenance for at least 10 years Durability The secret to Coastline’s hardwearing, long-lasting looks and

•40•

performance is its innovative composite structure – a patented triple composite of polymer resins, inorganic minerals and acrylic colorants that is extruded to give excellent dimensional strength and stability. With no wood fibres or any other organic material included, it will never absorb moisture, never rot and never attract insects that could damage its fabric. That makes it especially robust, even in the most extreme weather conditions. Coastline has excellent wind, hail and impact resistance, and even if it does pick up minor bumps and scrapes, they’ll be practically invisible from the kerbside because of its fade-resistant, through colour formulation – unlike cement boards. Even after years of service it never needs painting or treating, and all it takes to bring it back to its brilliant best is the occasional clean with a garden hose.

Aesthetics Good looking Coastline doesn’t just protect and preserve the fabric of the building. It does it in true style, with a range of 6 attractive New England colours: • • • • • •

Anthracite Grey Moondust Grey Pigeon Blue Oyster Soft Green Taupe.

Individual Coastline panels butt together in exactly the same way as timber panels, with a natural, embossed wood cladding finish to complete the authentic timber facade effect. Perfect for all kinds of jobs, from new build to refurbishments to park homes that have to fit in with the shades of the countryside around them to tired old brick exteriors in need of a facelift. Sustainable All the materials used in its manufacture are 100% recyclable. Because it’s made from such a durable, long-lasting composite, it never needs painting or treating with preservatives, both of which can contain volatile chemicals that can be harmful to the environment.

Find out more www.eurocell.co.uk/specifiers/composite-cladding •41•

Landscape

BESPOKE BEACH GARDEN USING SURESET RESIN BOUND MATERIALS The vision In August 2020 SureSet was contacted with a unique request to achieve the clients concept of a tropical themed outdoor dining area. Whereby using SureSet resin bound paving materials to create a bespoke and striking beach effect paving feature.

Preparation The idea was to surround and already striking custom tiki hut with a beach. The wooden Polynesian inspired garden hut was the centre of the dining area that had all the outdoor cooking essentials needed to entertain whilst grilling for guests.

We had an existing surface of concrete to install the resin bound materials over, and to ensure strength and durability from the ground up a primer was applied to the concrete and a 44m² CRM (crack reduction membrane) was rolled on top. By adding the CRM to the concrete base will offer extra resistance to potential concrete cracking that could affect the resin bound paving. The colours used to produce the beach effect paving were differing percentages of 3mm Butterscotch

from our Natural Aggregate range and Winter Frost from our luxury crushed marbles to give the appearance of sand and the water bubbles that splash against a shoreline. Chosen from our Spectrum range was a 3mm recycled glass in colours Aqua and Sky Blue, they were used to create the blue wave depths against the golden sand in an natural ripple pattern. Colour grading like this is very popular for unique projects and

The resin bound paving materials had to create the appearance of a bespoke desert island, a spectacular ‘resin desert island’, which was extremely exciting to install! SureSet Resin Systems have plenty of experience when installing personalised and imaginative paving, and beach projects are amongst many of our online case studies… Garden with beach theme resin Beach inspired theme park paving A resin bound beach driveway Our colour samples, technical advice and brochure was posted to the client before arranging a location visit to discuss the complexity of the beach design, checking the existing base condition, and plan the method of installation before measuring the areas needed for resin bound. After our visit we supplied a full quotation and specification data needed for the base preparations.

The installation The bespoke beach effect garden was installed late Spring this year.

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Key Features • Application: Bespoke resin bound colour grading • Base: Concrete • Area: 44m² • Colour: 3mm Butterscotch, Winter Frost, Aqua and Sky Blue • Depth: 16mm resin bound • Edges: Straight and flexible aluminium • Installed: SureSet Resin Systems

A CONCRETE BASE SHOULD BE LAID LEVEL AND WHILST THE TOP RESIN BOUND SURFACE WILL ACCOMMODATE ANY MINOR IRREGULARITIES, THERE SHOULDN’T BE ANY SIGNIFICANT ‘CRACKS OR UNDULATIONS’. NEW CONCRETE BASES NEED TO HAVE CURED FOR A MINIMUM OF 14 DAYS WITH A PVA PRIMER APPLIED PRIOR TO RESIN BOUND BEING APPLIED. IF EXPANSION JOINTS ARE NEEDED IN THE CONCRETE THEN THEY TOO WILL ALSO NEED TO BE REFLECTED INTO THE RESIN BOUND SURFACE.

design ideas and SureSet would always install this style of project using a hand float to ensure the level of intricacy is maintained throughout the installation process. The resin bound colours were evenly spread with a spazzle and hand floated to a compact and uniform level, a part from the wave effect areas, we did our upmost to make the water flow look as natural as possible.

The result A stunning resin bound beach effect garden! This beautiful and hard wearing patio surface will the property owners many years of use and on the plus side will require virtually no maintenance. All SureSet resin systems are UV stable and strong to be able to

protect itself from frost damage during colder months. The reliability of a SureSet resin bound surfacing system means the stones remain intact, preventing stones from becoming loose offering longevity as well as no weeds growing through. All installations by SureSet or an Approved Installer will be covered by a 21 Year Guarantee.

A good quality resin bound system, like SureSet, will be suitable for use after 4-6 hours for foot traffic and 12-16 hours for vehicular traffic. Where possible, we feel 24 hours is the ideal time to wait especially for a surface that will be heavily used - just to ensure that it is fully cured. After our installation we barricade the freshly laid areas to avoid any traffic type from stepping through it. To complete the surrounding edges of the beach, a 12mm linear edge was installed to continue the natural stone colour from the beach down the side of the garden wall. The existing edging stones in place were masked to protect them from any resin staining.

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Landscape

ST ARTHUR HOMES ACQUIRES PRIVATE UNITS FOR SHARED OWNERSHIP

Affordable housing provider St Arthur Homes has acquired its largest number of private units on one site to date, for Shared Ownership between Southampton and Portsmouth in a deal in excess of £25M with The Vistry Group. The purchase of 95 affordable homes at the Whiteley Meadows development in Winchester, comes as part of St Arthur Homes’ focused expansion programme, as it aims to deliver at least 2,000 new homes over five years. The first phase of 45 Shared Ownership homes at Whiteley Meadows will be launched for sale soon, including a range of two and three-bedroom houses and twobedroom apartments, providing affordable opportunities for buyers to get onto the property ladder for as little as a 5% deposit on the share they buy. Buyers will initially be able to purchase a share of the property, with the opportunity to buy further shares up to outright ownership in the future.

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“We are delighted to have acquired the site at Whiteley Meadows, which is our largest Shared Ownership development to date. Working alongside Vistry, we are pleased to play our part in delivering this fantastic new community in an outstanding countryside location while helping make homes more af fordable for our buyers. The increasing awareness and demand for Shared Ownership homes puts us in a strong position to continue to grow our business,” said Chief Executive Officer for St Arthur Homes. St Ar thur Homes specialises in delivering premium shared ow ner ship housing , w i t hou t compromise on specification and is taking its place in the market as the aspirational RP. St Arthur works with a range of partners to acquire affordable housing across London

and the South of England through S106 and grant-led schemes, with plans to expand into The Midlands. The deal with Vistry Group is the latest in a series of partnership deals with leading housebuilders as St Arthur increases its portfolio. Whiteley Meadows is a multiphase development where the overall masterplan will deliver more than 3,000 new homes from a group of leading developers led by The Vistry Group. The plans also include new schools, a care home, community centre, green spaces and shops, along with associated infrastructure. The new neighbourhood is well situated between Southampton, Portsmouth and Winchester, and surrounded by countryside, making it an attractive and sustainable place to live.

Landscape

HIGH DEMAND FOR MASTIC ASPHALT RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS IN LONDON Mastic asphalt is most commonly used for flat roofing applications but due to its waterproofing properties and durability, mastic asphalt is increasingly being specified for residential applications to protect balconies, terraces or exterior steps. Member contractors of the Mastic Asphalt Council (MAC) are reporting huge demand for the waterproofing of balconies or steps on townhouses in London. It is essential to keep balconies, steps and walkways completely waterproof in order to preserve the materials they are constructed from, to prevent structural defects, to prevent them from becoming a safety hazard and to enhance their overall appearance. Mastic asphalt is particularly popular on stone and concrete surfaces which are susceptible to cracking and deterioration over time, allowing water through

into properties and becoming dangerously slippery in the rain. Waterproofing is carried out by highly skilled mastic asphalt operatives, applying the product to provide effective long-term waterproof protection, a smooth finish, non-slip properties and durability to withstand constant foot traffic. Water ingress can prove to be extremely costly and disruptive and mastic asphalt has proved to be a highly effective solution for keeping residential properties dry and free from water penetration. In one recent project, MAC contractor member Sussex

Asphalte carried out a refurbishment project on a residential property in Sloane Gardens, London. With a highly desirable location on the boundaries of Belgravia and Chelsea, mastic asphalt was used to waterproof a terrace area at the property. Mastic asphalt had previously been used to waterproof the terrace so the work involved stripping the existing asphalt back to the original screed, laying new mastic asphalt, painting with a solar reflective coating and finishing with GRC promenade tiles of the customer’s choice in terracotta. Mastic asphalt will comfortably accept foot traffic, but as the balconies are likely to have tables and chairs on them, it was decided to overlay the mastic asphalt with tiles for additional protection. The Mastic Asphalt Council is the trade association for the mastic asphalt industry in the UK. Web: www.masticasphaltcouncil.co.uk, e-mail: info@masticasphaltcouncil.co.uk, Tel: 01273 242778.

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PoolLock Safety Covers

PoolLock Slatted Covers

With over 30 years of experience, PoolLock is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of automatic and manual safety covers, automatic slatted covers and heat pumps for swimming pools. Thousands of satisfied customers in Britain over the past 10 years bear testament to the quality, service and reliability of PoolLock products. In 2013, PoolLock opened its first UK production facility in Gatwick, London, with installation teams that are available 24 hours a day / 7 days a week. The result: even better service and faster delivery times for our UK customers.

For more information on our complete range of products, please contact us at www.poollock.com

landscaping

CHOOSING THE BEST SUBFRAME FOR YOUR DECKING PROJECT A decking subframe is the structure that sits beneath your deck, keeping it supported and providing the base that your decking boards are attached to.

The subframe is one of the most important parts of having a deck installed as, whilst the subframe is generally hidden, it is crucial for the deck’s longevity. A poor subframe choice or install can lead to the decking being damaged or can even lead to the decking becoming structurally dangerous and eventually failure. With so many different subframes to choose from, which one is best and what should you look out for? We review in-depth three popular subframe choices: timber, recycled plastic (Plas-Pro) & aluminium (DuoSpan). Each subframe material has different attributes and – being familiar with the benefits of each and knowing what to use and when – can add years to the deck’s longevity. Softwood timber is the most common material used for decking subframes, and Millboard decking has been fitted on these types of subframes for over ten years. However, there have been many examples of timber subframes that have failed within 6 years of being installed, with the failings being identified to be attributed to a lack of understanding of the requirements of timber, incorrect timber being used in the wrong location and bad workmanship.

Millboard Plas-Pro recycled subframe is an excellent alternative to timber for constructing the framework for decks, seating, planters and more. Constructed from recycled plastic, Plas-Pro is strong, versatile and easy to work with. The benefits of Plas-Pro over timber are that Plas-Pro can be used in contact with the ground and in water without the need for any airflow ventilation gaps; it can be sunk into the ground and surrounded fully with moisture without adverse effect. Finally, DuoSpan is a unique landscape construction frame made with a combination of aluminium joists and beams, aluminium brackets and plastic support profiles. This combination enables distinctive design opportunities for decking and outdoor structures that would be impossible with timber subframes, due to the superior strength of aluminium and flexibility of plastic. Find out more! Download the comprehensive Decking Subframe Guide for in-depth performance comparisons, lifetime cost projections and expert knowledge on factors to consider when selecting a subframe for your decking project. Visit www.millboard.co.uk/ subframes

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BESPOKE CAMPER VAN OFFICE, PRIVATE BOOTH OR LUXURY WORK FROM HOME SHED? Quintain Living offers homeworkers all this and more!

chieving the perfect work/ life balance is easier than ever before, thanks to the increased focus on working from home over the past 18 months. The UK’s Covid-19 vaccine rollout has been overwhelmingly hailed as a success yet despite this, not everyone wants to return to the office and pick up where they left off. A taste of a better balance between the office and working at home has inspired many workers to opt for hybrid or fully home-based arrangements out of choice, rather than necessity. “The lines between living and working from home have become inextricably interwoven for many since the first lockdown began. It’s raised questions about the continuing relevance of commuting to the office every day; for many, spending a few days a week

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working from home is here to stay. Thankfully, we delight in delivering spaces that will surprise and excite our residents so we’ve had great fun designing a range of new work from home amenities.” - Danielle Bayless, Chief Operating Officer, Quintain Living At Quintain Living – the award-winning management company overseeing the rental of more than 2,500 apartments in Wembley Park – the team has focused on providing a variety of innovative work from home solutions, to meet the differing needs of its residents.

coffee and a bit of company while they work. There’s WiFi across the whole Wembley Park estate, as there is for all of Quintain Living’s Wembley Park buildings.

Canada Gardens, for example, has heated designer work from home sheds that residents can hire, surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. Many residents also like to pop into the clubhouse to enjoy a

At The Robinson, Quintain has built private office space and work/ phone booths into the residents’ lounge. The versatile space can be used for both working and socialising, in recognition of the blurring of

the lines between the two. And for those who want a really inspiring work from home space, Quintain Living has provided a dedicated roof top that ’s home to three bespoke, custom-built work from home camper vans. Complete with power, heating and lighting (and WiFi, naturally), they sit on their own rooftop area with the sky wideopen above and stunning views of London. Quintain Living has added

picnic tables and deckchairs too, to give the space a real community vibe. “Working from home shouldn’t mean you have to feel lonely. We’re looking at this as a long-term occurrence now, incorporating more quirky work from home spaces in our future buildings, as well as thinking through how individual apartments can be designed to suit increased home working. That means including more space for desks, providing furniture that’s designed to be comfortable when used for longer periods at a time, that kind of thing. We’re also exploring ways that we can support residents to tailor their apartments to suit their individual working requirements; not every home worker needs an identikit desk/office chair setup.” - Danielle Bayless, Chief Operating Officer, Quintain Living Quintain Living is also reassessing its current residents’ lounges to see how it can reshape them to suit

increased home working without compromising their use for social gathering. This company is looking at both rentable workspaces and coworking-inf luenced environments for flexible use as part of this. The plans have at their core an understanding that working from home takes many different forms. As such, Quintain Living is looking at how it can support residents by providing the physical space they need, along with creative, inspirational environments that also provide scope for social interaction and emotional support. “The pandemic has changed so many aspects of life that were previously taken for granted – how we feel about our homes, places of work, rest and sanctuary. We’re fully embracing the hybrid working trend here at Quintain and for our residents and can’t wait to reveal our latest offerings with each new building.” - Danielle Bayless, Chief Operating Officer, Quintain Living

For more information on Quintain Living or to book a viewing, visit www.quintainliving.com, @quintainliving on Instagram or call 020 3151 1927. •49•

sustainability

BIOTECTURE’S LIVING WALL FEATURES IN RHS CHELSEA GOLD MEDAL AND ‘BEST SHOW GARDEN’ Biotecture, a UK leader in living walls, is celebrating the news that its PlantBox living wall system featured in this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show Gold Medal and coveted ‘Best Show Garden’. Guangzhou Garden received the awards for its Chinese-inspired garden, which shows how cities of the future must be considered as landscape cities.

in the atmosphere - Biotecture’s Active Air technolog y has the potential for improving indoor air quality in areas of buildings with limited natural airflow.

Designed by director Peter Chmiel and senior associate Chin-Jung Chen from Grant Associates, ‘The Guangzhou Garden’ took inspiration from Guangzhou, a por t cit y northwest of Hong Kong on China’s Pearl River.

Biotecture’s living wall system also aids biodiversity, providing valuable forage for pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The foliage also provides further benefits in terms of removing airborne pollutants such as par t iculate mat ter, reducing urban temperatures and attenuating rainwater. At the same time, living walls contribute to a sense of well-being for those living and working close by.

The pair’s Chinese-inspired garden paid homage to Guangzhou’s philos ophy of g i v ing e qual consideration to the needs of people and wildlife through sustainable city planning strategies, reconnecting people and nature in a mutually beneficial relationship. Biotecture’s installed a three metre high by 10 metre long living wall within the woodland dell section, supporting one of the garden’s core environmental strategies; improving air quality by using technology and nature working in harmony, a concept of the ‘green lung’. As part of the living wall installation, Biotec ture ’s protot ype Ac tive Air technolog y, developed in collaboration with engineers from ‘We Design For’, was installed to pipe clean air created from the modular PlantBox living wall into the garden’s ‘social heart’ central structure for people to enjoy. The Guangzhou Garden living wall A c t i ve A ir f l o w s y s te m created air pressure that drew in polluted air through the leaf and root zones of the plants where harmful particulate matter and gas pollutants are removed and allowing the system to output clean air. Along with tackling pollution from cars - traffic on the UK’s roads accounts for 32% of nitrogen oxides

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The Guangzhou Garden was created in collaboration with garden design consultancy The Outdoor Room, with prominent bamboo structures developed in partnership with

Xylotek, living walls from Biotecture and water features supplied by Bamber Wallis. “Congratulations to Grant Associates for their thoroughly well-deserved Gold Medal and ‘Best Show Garden’ at RHS Chelsea,” said Richard Sabin, Managing Director at Biotecture. “The Guangzhou Garden encapsulated the benefits of reconnecting people and nature, while highlighting the benefits of responsible city planning. We are delighted our living wall played an important part in the overall design.” Biotecture’s PlantBox living wall product was used in six separate installations at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show. For more information on Biotecture, visit: www.biotecture.uk.com

Creating quality low energy architecture requires a dedicated,

SUSTAINABLE BUILDING MATERIALS FROM FOUNDATION TO RIDGE

knowledgeable team from initial concept right through to finishing touches. Ecomerchant is a key part of that team for Charlie Luxton Design. Our values align, creating good buildings that perform and last whilst respecting our environment. Charlie Luxton

www.ecomerchant.co.uk info@ecomerchant.co.uk +44 (0) 1793 847 444

Principal Charlie Luxton Design

Sustainability

BLAH BLAH BLAH….

OF COURSE, WE NEED CONSTRUCTIVE DIALOGUE - BUT THEY’VE NOW HAD 30 YEARS OF BLAH, BLAH, BLAH, AND WHERE HAS THAT LED US? GRETA THUNBERG

here are those who talk and those who act. Action requires physical evidence of change and improvement, illustrated perfectly by a demonstration house already built at COP26 designed and constructed by a like-minded group of businesses to demonstrate how beautiful, affordable, healthy, and comfortable homes can be developed with minimal impact on the environment, throughout their lifecycle, using local materials and existing skills. The house delivers a 2030 compliant building today, in fact it goes beyond zero carbon. It’s not that it can’t be done but

rather it isn’t being done. The context in which we build sheds some light on why we are likely to fall well short of our carbon targets. Nearly all of the houses we build today involve construction techniques that are ill suited to meet the challenges of climate change. Alternatives exist, now is the time for action not words but can Government and industry change course quickly enough? The overall form of the modern house as constructed by the mass house-builders has changed little in millennia. The essential

elements of walls, pitched roofs, openings for light and doors have remained pretty constant. Before the late 19th Century, home life, through modern eyes might have appeared basic or even grim. but people were resigned to their lot. Here, for example, is the Rev. Francis Kilvert describing his morning bath on Christmas Day of 1870: ‘It was an intense frost. I sat down in my bath upon a sheet of thick ice which broke in the middle into large pieces whilst sharp points and jagged edges stuck all around the sides of the tub like chevaux de frise1 , not particularly comforting to the naked thighs and loins, for the keen ice cut like broken glass.’ Soon however, living conditions changed for most people. The development of the house that followed shortly after Kilvert’s miserable experience, set the home to evolve from being just the simple and often cold shelter into what Le Corbusier provocatively called ‘the machine for living in.’

Modern new housing estate

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The late Victorian house was nearly crowded out with novelty objects. Many were trivial, but one product of wealth and industrialisation was set to change domestic life profoundly. The idea of warming and circulating air had recurred repeatedly since ancient times - usually only in places where

[1]The cheval de frise (chevaux de frise plural) was a medieval defensive anti-cavalry measure consisting of a portable frame covered with many projecting long iron or wooden spikes or spears. They were principally intended as an anti-cavalry obstacle but could also be moved quickly to help block a breach in another barrier

Sustainability House Design 60 Years Apart photos courtesy of Ecomerchant

its exorbitant costs could be met. With central heating, middle-class Victorians could explore new ideas of comfort and leisure. They took off their thick coats and layers of fabric and slipped instead into something lighter and more comfortable. Welcome to the 20th Century. Indoor temperatures steadily increased throughout the new Century as new concepts of lifestyle became possible. Even in the late 20th Century, homes continued to become warmer. In the year England last won the World Cup in 1966, the average temperature was 12 degrees C; Today, it is between 17 and 23 degrees C. All was good just so long as fossil fuels kept flowing. But, unfortunately, cheap energy masked the problem to come: the system that paired space heating with traditional construction was the nexus through which the building envelope became environmentally compromised. What became apparent and then important much later was that to operate with efficiency, warm air needed to be contained within the building envelope - but insulation and air-tightness were not features of traditional building. Until the

late 19th Century and for many, far into the 20th, building occupants were warmed directly by open fires creating radiant heat. To be warm was to be in line with a fireplace or wearing a coat, whilst other provisions such as heavy curtains and wing-backed chairs limited cold drafts. Just so long as there was a fire in the hearth, leaking windows, flues, and simple 9-inch uninsulated walls and roofs were relatively unimportant. The curb on the limitless heat came in the early 1970s as the owners of the newly nationalised oil wells, particularly in the Middle East, learnt the political power of controlling supply to a beholden West. So oil taps were turned on and off and back on. Prices went up and up…… Cheap energy was history. The Government intervened to tie down the amount of energy used in buildings. Through a succession of updates to what became ‘Part L’ , the Building Regulations imposed thermal performance standards on elements such as walls, windows, roofs and floors. Fuel poverty was kept at bay for most - but only just. It wasn’t until 2002 that the first reference to Global Warming appeared in connection with the ‘Regs’. Making a stab at dealing

with the threat, incremental degrees of application of performance standards increased to reduce carbon emissions up until the present day - but it has never been enough. ‘Part L’ has yet to achieve its potential to deliver energy-efficient buildings. Whereas the Government has demurred at using its powers, the main obstacle to progress is how houses continue to be built using methods unchanged since before the 19th Century. The construction industry has never developed alternative building strategies that drive energy conservation. Instead, traditional building methods have been pushed well beyond their ability to deliver the necessary levels of performance. Even to meet current regulations, most houses need to be assembled using high degrees of accuracy and competence. Both are notoriously lacking - site skills levels are at their lowest in decades. Still, the construction industry moves ahead, building hundreds of thousands of sub-performance houses a year using inadequate techniques backed by limp government standards. Continuing with this strategy is doing nothing to help avert the crisis, There needs to be a step-change.

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Sustainability Another path

A perfect storm.

The solution to energy loss and hence emissions has always been clear - by building walls, roofs and floors using materials and systems that inhibit heat transmission from inside to outside. Add appropriate ventilation, and it’s perfectly possible to build structures that use virtually no energy to keep them warm in winter and cool during increasingly warm summers - and keeps the air inside the house healthy for all to live in. Again, it’s a goal that is achievable using appropriate materials and technology. Higher than Government ambitions, standards like ‘Passivhaus’ exist outside the bigdeveloper ‘bubble’. What’s important is that these tested standards are available for adoption by Government - ‘ovenready’, as one B. Johnson might put it.

Alarmingly, there’s more: if one existential emergency brought on by Climate Change were not enough, yet other environmental crises are bearing down. All man-made, they include fossil-fuel depletion, pollution, loss of biodiversity, deforestation, land degradation, water extraction, waste ……… the list goes on. The cost to the planet of our way of life is too much bear. There’s no wonder our children are betraying previously unknown levels of angst. According to the University of Bath, ‘Nearly six in 10 young people, aged 16 to 25, are very or highly apprehensive about climate change. Outside of the mainstream, though, designers of sustainable buildings that meet the environmental challenge understand the impacts of the building process - not just how much energy is involved, but also where the materials come from and what procedures they have to go through before they arrive on a building site. Their buildings are designed to touch the earth ‘lightly’ so as not to compromise the future of succeeding generations.

Design strategies and materials Low energy and low environmental impact buildings generally have in common basic design strategies and choice of materials:

‘Fabric first’ Space heating consumes around 60% of a home’s total energy demand. The ‘Fabric first’ design strategy is based on the simple idea that reducing heat loss through the building fabric minimises the energy needed Timber frame house built using only natural materials, Picture courtesy from the grid. When the Kithurst Homes Ltd. Construction NIPPS (naturally insulated passive panels), Government is looking insulation blown wood fibre floc, Steico rigid wood fibre board sheathing. Passive standard ach 1.2 @50pa. 35,921kg of carbon sequestered. to replace gas boilers, reducing the need to generate heat from alternative technology and fuel sources By offering different design strategies will result in more accessible and cheaper solutions with fewer and materials matched to standards emissions. superior to those cited by Regulation, a growing number of smaller developers, Air-tightness - ‘Build tight - ventilate right architects and supporting supply chains Build tight: A well-insulated building is nothing if warm air can already show how emissions can be nearleak uncontrollably from window and door openings or through eliminated in new buildings. Getting to flues and pipe penetrations in walls and roofs. Air-tightness near-zero emissions is not rocket science is twin to insulation in the strategy of a low-energy building. - we just need a collective determination.

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Sustainability Keeping the air warm and inside the envelope is the ideal. Ventilate right: High carbon dioxide levels, a build-up of toxins and mould from condensation are the unwelcome products of an ill-ventilated building. Traditionally trickle vents were built into the walls and windows. Vents could be opened by the occupants to let bad or steamy air out into the atmosphere. But whilst accepting that opening a window is almost a human right, using it to ventilate a room needs to be restricted if energy is to be conserved. So instead, there has evolved, mainly through the Passivhaus movement, advanced ventilation systems that keep the air fresh and warm. These extract foul air from interior spaces whilst pumping fresh air into the opposite direction - itself warmed by exchanging heat from the exhausted warm air.

‘Embodied energy’ The term ‘Operational energy’ expresses the amount of energy used to heat and power a building

throughout its lifetime. ‘Embodied energy’ refers to the sum effect of all emissions attributed to all the materials, components and equipment during the building’s life cycle. This cycle encompasses extraction, manufacturing, transportation, construction, maintenance, and disposal of those materials. Reducing the amount of embodied energy is an early part of the design strategy. The designer will calculate the quantity of energy used in supplying, maintaining, and disposing of each material specified. An obvious material to be minimised will be concrete. Cement production is the third-largest emitter of carbon dioxide globally, followed closely by steel and aluminium. If the quantity of those materials can be reduced or eliminated, then significant amounts of embodied energy can be reduced too. It is no surprise that timber is at the top of the list of materials used by designers of sustainable buildings. This is because timber, along with other renewable materials such as hemp, cork and bamboo, actually absorbs carbon dioxide during its growth period. So ultimately requires very little energy to extract timber and transform it into roles such as structure, finishing, and cladding.

Préfabrication One of the factors aggravating any chance of producing high performance, traditionally-built housing stock is the reliance on qualified site operatives. Skilled workers have always been wanted in the construction industry, but currently, with many trained workers returning to the EU, a skills vacuum leaves the industry desperately in need. Even guided by relatively benign building standards,

PH15. Akerman Road Social Housing. Picture courtesy of Passive House Homes Ltd. Certified passive house, build cost under £450/m². Construction timber frame, LVL, Steico I Joists, Steico wood fibre insulation, Unilin Vapourblock, lime render, sheep’s wool.

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Sustainability housebuilders can’t even run to stand still. With time running out to make the necessary reductions in emissions, most buildings will fail to meet the demand. By moving most construction from the typically Somme-like conditions of the traditional British building site and into the warm, sheltered and closely monitored factory conditions, much higher levels of quality can be achieved. Assembling a kit of parts arriving on site is relatively risk-free and usually within the capabilities of a less-skilled workforce. The outcome is that most buildings can be built to higher standards of performance. Try and tested alternatives to traditional construction.

Timber frame The use of timber has been a significant feature of UK construction for centuries. In that time, its use as a structural frame has passed in and out of fashion. However, a substantial proportion of UK housing is built using timber frames within the traditional cavity wall format. Its advantages include that it is a well-understood, tried and tested and flexible building technology. Moreover, used appropriately, it can be impressively cost-effective. The COP26 House – built in central Glasgow to showcase zero carbon buildings during the COP26 event in November 2021 - is an example of a timber-framed building with the added benefits of prefabrication.

Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) CLT is a relatively recent arrival on the UK construction scene. The system comprises timber laminations glued together

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and formed into prefabricated component panels such as walls, floors and roofs. Popular for some time in Germany and Austria, where timber is readily available, its introduction into the UK through low and high-rise buildings such as flats and schools has made significant inroads amongst the alternatives to traditional construction techniques. Waugh Thistleton Architects are the leading exponents of CLT techniques, particularly in the application of high-rise housing around central London. Similarly, a recent school building programme has also done much to open up the potential of CLT to enable large-span structures. Architects and engineers working with CLT include Fielden Clegg Bradley, Aberdeenshire Council, B&K Structures, Durban, Avanti Architects and Arup’s - amongst many others.

Prefabricated timber panels Timber panels can act as structural elements in themselves. Good examples are manufactured by Eden Insulation. Their panels include structural elements clad externally with an insulation board and internally with a vapour barrier board. The whole is filled with recycled newsprint insulation. The panels are shipped from the factory and simply assembled on site. Already there are many buildings in Scotland and the north of England featuring their lowimpact panels - most meeting the demanding Passivhaus standard.

Hemp Hemp is a crop better known for furnishing the Georgian Royal Navy with its ropes and, more recently, as a component of fat roll-ups. Hemp (without its intoxication

element) is, in fact, a superbly flexible material that parts of the construction industry have invested in over the last 25 years. In buildings, hemp can be mixed with lime to produce Hempcrete, a plastic material that integrates in-situ with timber frames to form impressively insulated and airtight structures. Examples abound, with perhaps the best known being Kevin MacCloud’s ( of Grand Designs fame) 42 home development near Swindon. As part of their ‘Plan A’, M&S has also used the material extensively at their massive Chesire Oaks store.

Sustainability COP26 Finished House, picture courtesy Roderick James

Aerated clay blocks Popularly known as ‘Ziegel’ blocks, aerated clay blocks are a development of the humble brick. Blocks are larger individual components that are glued together. Think Lego. There is no need for a cavity because the blocks themselves are manufactured to include insulating air pockets. Clay blocks have been used for decades in Europe but are only just become popular in the UK. Lidl supermarkets are leading the charge by including the building technique in their new stores.

Straw Straw is one of the most common byproducts of agriculture. It makes up half of the yield of

cereal crops in the UK. As a result, it is available in massive quantities. Traditionally it is used as bedding, fuel and fodder. Historically though, much was simply burnt on the fields until 1992 when it was banned. Strawbale building has been a way of constructing homes, particularly in the USA, since the 19th Century. However, its modern manifestation in the UK is proving its viability alongside other renewable building materials. Barbara Jones has been constructing straw bale buildings since the 1990s resulting in techniques tried and tested. Craig White and Modcell have also developed prefabricated panels made in ‘flying factories’ using a locally sourced straw to produce highperformance houses.

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Sustainability BZH COP26 House Construction Phase picture courtesy Roderick James Architects

The COP26 House Architects The COP26 House, designed by Roderick James Architects and currently erected close to the Glasgow Conference Centre which is hosting the UN Climate Conference, is a well-honed example of an low carbon house across its entire lifecycle. The design of the building follows the simple assembly prescription of the fabric-first concept but takes it further still. The house is distinguished by its extensive use of timber. The UK construction industry mainly imports timber from overseas to provide framing for otherwise brick-clad walls, floors and tile roofing. The COP26 House is timber-framed using homegrown Spruce but goes much further. The walls are clad in timber both inside and out; the roof is timber-boarded Scandinavian-style. Insulation derives from timber trimmings transformed into insulation boards and mats sandwiched into the walls and roof. The designers eschew plastic windows for high-performance timber-framed triple glazing. There is a determination to achieve a safe,

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non-toxic environment by avoiding where possible materials groups such as petrochemicals and other components that can emit toxic chemicals and gases either in their manufacture or use in the house. Most significantly, the COP26 House meets the 2030 zero-carbon target right now. As befits such a lowenergy building, heating is carefully designed to drive down the annual bills to somewhere around £150 per annum. Technologies can be incorporated as appropriate – in the current house infra-red panels provide the space heating by heating objects and people directly, air source heat pumps, solar thermal and PV immersion heating could also be incorporated for space and water heating. For the low energy usage achieved through high insulation and air-tightness standards in the house, it is a must to pair up with an efficient artificial ventilation system. Tried and tested is Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) that, when applied to the whole building, can deliver fresh air whilst extracting foul air. The useful twist is the heat recovery element, which uses the exiting warm air to heat the cooler incoming air.

Sustainability

The single bedroom 65m2 COP26 House is just one of several design variations using the same zero carbon approach, with the largest currently a 4-bed semidetached version of 140 square metres. The house is easy to build using the many off-site manufactured components as part of the design. The architects estimate that total build cost should be in the range of £1,800 for self-build up to £2,500 per square metre dependent on size, location, builder, and final finish specification. Through realising the COP26 House in Glasgow, the architects have indeed demonstrated they can set out to match ‘...design and materials in a way that showcases that low carbon housing, made from ecologically responsible materials, can - and should - be beautiful, comfortable and affordable.

Thanks to Ecomerchant for contributing this piece. Ecomerchant are a key partner of the COP26 House as a supplier of natural, carbon friendly and sustainable building materials www.ecomerchant.co.uk More on the Beyond Zero Homes COP26 House at www.beyondzerohomes.co.uk More on Steico wood fibre insulation, I Joists and LVL at www.steico.com

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Not all external platform lifts are the same! Is your external platform lift IP65 rated? This means it offers complete protection from dust, and protection against low pressure water jets from any angle.

e’ve just fitted our Inva Euro platform lift externally at Sheffield University, and the IP65 rating was one of the key factors in deciding to use this particular lift.

Installation can be completed in as little as 2-3 days, with minimal building work required, and the requirement of just single phase electrics can reduce the cost of an electrician and associated works.

The Inva Euro is manufactured from stainless steel and then powder coated in a choice of different colour finishes to provide a hard wearing and durable finish.

The lift is available with optional fire rated doors, tinted glazing and swipe card control, so it’s possible to customise the lift to suit your exact needs.

This lift is available in a choice of platform sizes, ranging from 1250mm x 900mm to 1400m x 1100mm, so you can find a size which is ideal for your needs. With travel heights up to 7 metres, as well as emergency battery lowering and an autodialler fitted as standard, this is the perfect choice for an outside lift.

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Our client at Sheffield University has been extremely pleased with the installation, offering staff and students assisted access for many years to come. If you would like to know more about our platform lifts or other access solutions, please contact the Invalifts team on 0845 468 2543 or alternatively, email sales@invalifts.com

Platform Lifts Our range of platform lifts includes the Commercial Platform Lift (right) - a premium quality enclosed platform lift with a customisable finish, and the option of glazing on 3 sides. Designed for offices, schools and public buildings with small footprints available, this is a premier platform lift. We also offer stair platform lifts and a range of platform lifts for both internal and external use.

The Platform Lift Experts

Tel: 0845 4682543 Web: www.invalifts.com

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