Home Designer & Architect - January 2021

HOME-DESIGNER AND ARCHITECT

MAGAZINE january 2021

Heritage colours with low maintenance See inside...

Heritage colours with low maintenance Heritage colours and kerb-side appeal were among the factors that persuaded the planning authorities of Bath that Modus PVC-U windows from Eurocell were the appropriate alternative to timber on a prime, exposed location near the UNESCO World Heritage Site. he estate was being developed by Bloor Homes, along with another major housebuilder, on a former MoD site dating from WW2 that overlooks the Georgian city and is near to its race- and golf course.

T

“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.

“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.

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.

Paul from Bloor also commented that the quality of Eurocell fabricators and installers is also almost as important a factor as the quality of the window itself.

In this case Bloor was supplied by A & B Glass (South West) of Tewkesbury while the neighbouring builder dealt with Leicester-based Unique Windows.

Coming with a 12-year guarantee, the Modus system is available in nine solid and woodgrain-effect colours, all of which are available with white internal finishes to create a light and airy living environment. A further range of more than 40 solid and woodgrain effect finishes is available, including colour both sides.

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.

This led to Modus becoming one of the very first systems to achieve the BRFC Window Energy Rating (WER) of A++.

This is only awarded to windows with an energy index value equal to or greater than +20; and Modus A++ designs include casement, reversible and tilt and turn.

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 technology (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.

Find out more about the Modus window system and how we can help you with your development Eurocell.co.uk

It’s a no brainer

Up to 50% more cost effective than equivalents

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.

Standard sash

Saves money – costs up to 50% less than equivalents.

Discover more reasons to choose Modus.

Visit eurocell.co.uk/modus or call 0333 032 3242

Slim rebate sash

Fully flush sash

No.1 Choice Electric Radiator Collection EHC offer a comprehensive Range of Electric Products that are all controlled by our DSR Smart Technology which enables you to select different Heaters and mix and match them as a Hybrid Heating System for the various rooms within your property to suit your design style and budget – the choice is yours.

Hybrid Heating for the modern home Available for Android & Apple devices

•

Free APP

•

Control your heating anywhere and anytime

•

Adjust each room temperature separately

•

Geolocation Feature

•

Monitor electricity consumption.

Call us on

01698 820533

www.electric-heatingcompany.co.uk

HOME-DESIGNER AND ARCHITECT

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

26 Coatings & Paints 33 Sustainability 40 Outdoor Living

CONtact US Ben Pritchard

Publication Manager

01843 581364

ben@homedesignerandarchitect.co.uk

Jenna Burridge

Editor

01843 595818

jenna@homedesignerandarchitect.co.uk

industry news

Floor-level Door Sill

The Combi Plan profile system from Grundmeier is now also available for barrier-free transitions with wooden doors.

he Combi Plan profile system from Grundmeier is now also available for barrier-free transitions with wooden doors. According to the manufacturer, the system, previously used for 20-mm-high versions, is also fully sealed as a zero threshold. A floor seal concealed in the door leaf is mechanically lowered when the door is closed. In addition, a fold sealing element made of soft plastic on the underside of the door leaf prevents moisture from penetrating.

T

www.grundmeierkg.de

A new challenge for architects in flexibility with modular wood construction Buildings are static; they serve the purpose they have been designed for but when cities grow and the needs of the community change, this becomes a problem.

M

odular construction with engineered wood products like Kerto LVL are the solution, because they enable adaptable, sustainable and cost competitive designs. It is time to provide solutions to the changing needs of our cities. Time to create an urban adaptation.

The Urban Adaptation Competition challenges architects and students from around the world to find a way to create multi-purpose buildings that can adapt to the changing needs of urban communities.

During the life cycle of a building, requirements can change dramatically due to changes in demography, culture or politics. A community might need less office space and more kindergartens instead.

Or vice versa. In addition to adaptability, urban construction needs to become more efficient and environmentally friendly.

Construction produces over 30% of the global CO2 emissions, but wood does the opposite, it stores carbon. Engineered wood is cost competitive because it enables fast construction with prefabricated elements and modules. These elements are flexible and allow designs which are adaptable.

•4•

Architect Rahel Belatchew

The Jury

“A wooden structure is easy to adapt to various situations. Wood is adaptable: it is easy to build with, but also dismantle and rebuild according to changing needs,” says Rahel Belatchew, a Swedish architect and a competition jury member.

The jury members are Andrew Scott, a Professor of Architecture and Urbanism at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Rahel Belatchew, Chief architect and founder of Belatchew Arkitekter, Sweden and Minna Riska, Architect and partner at MDH Arkitekter, Norway.

The Competition The competition is organised by Metsä Group, Aalto University and the Ministry of the Environment of Finland. The entrants are asked to select a centrally-located empty plot in a city area and develop an innovative modular wood design for a public building or a building system that easily adapts to the changing needs of the community. In addition to visual and functional criteria, the designs need to show 1. adaptability, 2. modularity and 3. sustainability.

The deadline for competition entries is on 31 December 2020 at 24:00 CET. No preregistration needed.

The first prize of the competition is €15,000 and the second prize is €5,000.

The winners will be announced in February 2021.

“Engineered wood enables construction which is both efficient and environmentally friendly. I am looking forward to new innovative designs which take into account the entire life cycle,” says Ilkka Hämälä, President and CEO of Metsä Group.

We need to find a way to create multipurpose buildings, which can adapt to the changing needs of the community. We need urban adaptation.

For more information about the competition visit www.urbanadaptation.com.

industry news

P C Henderson’s Sliding Door Hardware Specified for Luxury Hotel in Shanghai’s New National Exhibition and Convention Centre P C Henderson’s sliding door hardware has recently been specified for a luxury hotel built within Shanghai’s new National Exhibition and Convention Centre (NECC) in China. uilt in 2019, the Intercontinental Shanghai Hongqiao NECC features 536 rooms across 10 floors and is the only hotel to be located within the NECC. The hotel boasts many luxurious features including a fitness spa and wellness centre, a grand ballroom and a signature restaurant which offers an array of international cuisines.

B

The design brief required a sliding door system for each of the 536 rooms to create a partition wall between the bathroom and bedroom. A range of P C Henderson’s sliding door hardware systems were specified for the project including 504 Husky Sliding systems for the standard guest bedrooms and 85 Husky Telescopic systems for the hotels executive rooms.

Julius Zhu, Sales Development Manager for P C Henderson China, commented, “We are seeing an increased demand for sliding door systems within the luxury hotel market as a way to create two separate rooms when privacy is required whilst also allowing a large open plan space when open. Space is often a priority within large hotel complexes and so sliding doors are a great way to achieve flexible room layouts without imposing on the space available”.

A sliding door system was also required for the hotel’s lobby to separate the reception desk and lounge area. “The timber doors were designed with a copper decoration to enhance the luxurious feel within the

hotel and therefore required a sliding door system which could comfortably cater for a significant door weight without impacting the operation of the system”, explained Julius.

The companies Straight Sliding 301 industrial hardware was identified as the ideal system for this part of the project. Catering for doors weighing up to 400kg, the system can comfortably accommodate the weight of the timber doors whilst ensuring a smooth and quiet operation.

P C Henderson’s range of sliding door hardware is becoming increasing popular within the international hotel market due to an increase in demand for flexible living areas for guests. The company’s range of hardware can cater for doors weighing up to 8000kg meaning virtually any type of sliding door hardware can be catered for.

View the full range at www.pchenderson.com

•5•

industry news

Affordable housing developer Torus has created a framework of 12 local and regional contractors to help build its planned pipeline of more than 5,000 homes across the North West in the next five years.

Places on the Development Framework have been awarded to • • • • • •

Carrol Build Crossfield Construction M&Y Penny Lane RP Tyson The Casey Group

•

Anwyl

•

Caddick Construction

•

Eric Wright

•

Lovell

•

Seddon

•

Vistry

Construction work will take place in the Liverpool City Region, Cheshire and Lancashire.

Torus Director of Developments & Sales, Steve Alcock, said: “Our development programme is growing at pace and its scale is surpassing our forecasted projections, meaning having an established framework of contractors is paramount to ensuring we meet our target of building 5,300 homes by 2024.

“Being able to mobilise sites quickly and efficiently streamlines the whole process and having a bank of trusted contractors on hand will not only see more affordable homes built in a timely manner, but our investment in local social projects increase through working with partners with a large social impact.

“This ensures any financial investment not only supports the physical development of high-quality homes, but the creation of communities that are strong, diverse and healthy.

“We have always strived to work with local partners and support our regional supply chain and, after the impact COVID-19 has had on the construction industry as a whole, that commitment has never been stronger.

“We’re thrilled to be working with some of the best local and regional contractors over the next couple of years and continuing our support of our local economy.”

Local contractors win places on North West homes framework

•6•

industry news

any local independent shops whether it is the butcher in your village, greengrocer or the local pub have embraced additional business channels allowing customers to order, click and collect or have a home delivery. Thus, ensuring they continue to operate and are profitable during a challenging business year.

M

Restrictions have brought a new audience to online shopping and ecommerce, an audience who have previously not adopted to the digital age. On a practical level, this has meant that organisations have had to make sure their website content is simple and easy to use. In these changing and uncertain times, it has never been more important to understand your customers and your market.

Here at the IPG, we have been impressed with how several of our members have responded to the changing competitive landscape and have adopted the new modern selling channels, making their businesses available 24/7 which will help them in their determination to continue to grow their business in 2021 and beyond.

New Year ….

A new dawn.

As the sun sets rises in 2021, we can reflect on some of the positive changes that the previous year has brought to our lives, one of which is an appreciation of the local independent business, within our community, that has always been there, but we haven’t always supported. However, we have now realised that they are competitively priced, friendly, and informative and often more flexible than their larger competitors willing to adopt new ways to transact and communicate with existing and new customers.

Our experienced IT Team have supported members throughout the last 12 months with website development and ecommerce solutions. But don’t take our word for it, here’s what Mike at one of our members, Croxley Plumbing Supplies said: “From my initial consultation with The IPG to my weekly emails and phone calls, getting onboard with e-commerce has been a big success. Sales have

increased since going live, but what is also improved is my profile in the local area. The number of visitors to my website has grown significantly. Never as much as now has our relationship with The IPG felt so much like a team.”

Unlike 12 months ago some of our IPG members are now offering a click and collect service and their businesses are open 24/7 with their new effective online platforms.

This has meant they have reached brand new customers online and have experienced increased footfall to their locations. After so much negative news about retail in the last month it is reassuring that the independent merchants are adapting and expanding their service and delivery channels making sure they remain in our community for the foreseeable future. www.the-ipg.co.uk

•7•

Portaro and Easi-Fit doorkits the fast way to achieve excellence Leading interior door manufacturer Vicaima, have just introduced a totally new door kit and set brochure, which opens the way to assembly solutions for an ever increasing market diversity and performance criteria. In what has been seen as a dramatic extension to the Vicaima portfolio; these new kit and set solutions provide project specifiers with greater choice and flexibility to go beyond the realms of what was previously thought possible. With solutions in fire, security and acoustic performance, they present the fast way to achieve excellence. ith its striking yellow and black design, this new Vicaima technical guide contains 80 pages of inspiration and technical expertise for a wide scope of applications, ranging from residential living, hotel and leisure, together with education and medical situations among others. This handy and easy to reference technical brochure, spotlights two key brands from the Vicaima offering, to suit varying project requirements: Portaro Door Kits with their completely matching and finished, door and frame assemblies; together with the Easi-Fit Door sets which combines a choice of door with standard primed frames for on-site finishing.

W

Throughout the new brochure, doorkit and set solutions are sub-divided into 4 main categories for ease of specification and these include: Non-fire, Fire, Fire and acoustics and Security solutions.

Within these categories, an array of configurations are made possible, with inverse, sliding and pocket systems among them. With regulatory performance being a hallmark of Vicaima, products also provide third party accreditation where applicable and are tested to BS and/or EN Standards.

And as care for the environment is paramount, everything is covered by FSC® certification.

This new brochure is certainly a must have tool for anyone looking to source door kits and sets that present rapid and simple installation, while at the same time meeting or exceeding some of the most demanding specifications the industry requires. For a copy of the new Portaro and Easi-Fit brochure or for further inspiration and trendsetting ideas,

Visit the Vicaima website www.vicaima.com or contact info@vicaima.com Tel +44 (0) 1793 532333

•8•

Image top: new brochure. Above: Door kit in situ. Left: Acoustic Wheel.

First impressions count The impact of a front door on a home’s kerb appeal eptember 2020 was a month of records for the UK housing market.

The stamp duty holiday triggered the highest number of residential property sales ever agreed in a month.

When selling or looking to purchase a

S

•10•

house, first impressions really do count.

Here, Nick Cowley, managing director of leading window and door manufacturer Euramax, explains the impact of a carefully selected front door on a home’s kerb appeal.

is 50 days quicker than any previously recorded figure, according to a report by real estate website Rightmove. In such a saturated market, it’s vital that a property stands out, for the right reasons.

Homes are selling faster than ever before in the UK. The average time to sell

In the initial stages of selling a property, the exterior appearance holds great

appearance makes PVCu doors an ideal option for modern properties.

importance: the front exterior shot of a home typically takes centre stage on online listings and many prospective buyers will make an informal drive-by visit before requesting a viewing. With such a great focus on the home’s exterior, maximising kerb appeal is a crucial element of a successful exchange.

Whether a homeowner is enhancing their property’s sellable status, or plans to remain there for years to come, the front door is commonly regarded as a property’s focal point, connecting the inside with the outside. It should reflect the personality of the home, and can provide a subtle hint towards the interior décor inside the property. Selecting a front door that successfully achieves this requires three key decisions: colour, material and design.

Colour choice A front door’s colour is ultimately down to personal preference, but there are a few essential considerations that should be made when creating a stand-out first impression. The goal is to radiate a welcoming feel, which can be reached either by adding a new colour or by maintaining the property’s existing colourway.

One of the most popular colours to add to a property is a pale green. Inspired by nature, this hint of colour subtly matches any surrounding foliage. This promotes a view of the house and its garden as a single entity, helping the home to blend in with its exterior environment.

Alternatively, neutral shades bring a classic and sophisticated style to any property. Recent years have seen a rise in the popularity of grey interiors, so selecting a grey front door complements the interior décor and sets the tone

of what’s to come if you were to enter through it.

It’s also worth taking the style of the property into account, to ensure the door colour helps rather than hinders the home’s aesthetic appeal.

For example, dark colours such as Anthracite grey may be too bold for ornate period homes, but the perfect fit for a modern or Tudor-style property.

Considering all these points in advance gives homeowners some creative freedom with their door colour, without compromising on style.

Material matters Material is not only key to a door’s aesthetics, but also its functionality.

Meeting a door’s aesthetic goals should not come at the expense of performance. Ultimately, a front door must provide security without sacrificing energy efficiency, so material choice should support these performance objectives.

A traditional material choice would be timber, thanks to its timeless look and customisability. There are many types of wood to select from and it can be painted any colour. However, timber comes with its downsides.

Repeated exposure to harsh weather conditions can cause warping and peeling, hampering the door’s insulating properties and demanding periodic maintenance.

PVCu is another material option, which outperforms timber on energy efficiency and maintenance. PVCu doors have a smooth finish that is naturally insulating and weatherproof, requiring minimal maintenance. Contrary to popular belief, PVCu doors are now available in a range of colours, including Anthracite grey and Chartwell green. Their sleek, clean

However, the modern appearance of PVCu may look out of place on a traditional property, while timber doors may not meet all the performance goals. Composite doors combine the benefits of different materials to offer maximum security, unrivalled energy efficiency and virtually zero maintenance.

With a variety of colour choices and the option to add a woodgrain effect, composite doors are suitable for any home, whatever its style.

Design details Having decided on colour and material, it’s important to think about the door’s design. As with colour choice, homeowners should be mindful of their property’s architecture and ensure that their door is in keeping with the style.

The UK’s most popular four-panel door with two glass panels at the top and two solid panels at the bottom is a classic option that suits most properties.

However, a modern property may benefit from a trendy design such as a door with four central glass square panels.

It’s also advisable to spend some time considering the door’s accessories.

Every front door must have a handle and a letter box, but you may decide on additional features such as numbers or a door knocker. Traditional doors may suit gold fittings, whilst contemporary properties may better suit chrome hardware.

Euramax is a leading UK manufacturer PVCu and composite doors, which come in a range of colours with an array of customisable glass and accessory options. What’s more, our made-to-measure service allows us to offer bespoke products to meet any homeowners’ specific requirements.

Whether your contemplating selling or just want to improve your property’s exterior, the front door holds the key to success. Carefully selecting a door’s colour, material and design ensures that the door seamlessly fits with the property’s style, while allowing the home’s interior style to shine through, making the property stand out for all the right reasons.

•11•

Heating & Ventilation

Hybrid Heating for the modern home – the choice is yours EHC offer a comprehensive Range of Electric Products that are all controlled by the well-established DSR Technology Control System. It enables you to select a Hybrid Heating Solution from the range for the various rooms within your property to suit your design style and budget – the choice is yours.

All DSR Controlled Heaters are manually operated using the “easy to use” Controller located on the Heater.

They also have Wi-Fi capability that can be activated when you purchase the optional DSR Smart Gateway which will allow you to control your Heaters Anytime, Anywhere 24/7 up to a maximum of 30 Heaters using our free bespoke APP. When used with the EHC Smart Gateway you can take advantage of the in-built Wi-Fi ready capability and are able to program your heaters individually or in groups.

The DSR Control APP has many features designed to enhance your comfort levels and provide essential information regarding your heating

•12•

The DSR Range of Heaters all offer partial heat retention via the internal storage tiles. They are designed to provide an even heat across the surface area of the Heaters and in turn provide a combination of Convected and Radiant Heat. The comprehensive range of Heaters which are available in various Outputs are: • EHC Combination Heaters • Edge • Solaris • Visage

system. There is also an optional Power Meter Clamp available for Load Shedding Control.

Popular features within the APP • Setting Times to suit lifestyle • Adjust each room temperature to suit using the manual boost • Limit electricity consumption to avoid exceeding maximum power available • Monitor your electricity consumption history • View the Temperature history by room • Alexa and Google Home commands

For further information or a free Brochure contact 01698 820533 or visit

www.electric-heatingcompany.co.uk

Ask Mitsubishi Electric about sustainable heating In their latest podcast episodes, Max Halliwell from Ecodan talks to architect and Ecodan Brand Ambassador, George Clarke and other key speakers about Ecodan Heat Pumps. They discuss affordable warmth for UK social housing and consider the case for new-build developments versus fitting existing buildings with renewable technology.

Listen at podcast.ecodan.uk heating@meuk.mee.com

The renewable heating alternative

Serious about sustainability

ecodan.me.uk

heating & ventilation

Rinnai To Create Hydrogen Information Hub For Consultants, Specifiers, End-Users Rinnai, manufacturers of hot water heating units and delivery systems for all commercial sites, is to create a comprehensive information hub dedicated to the subject of Hydrogen as a low-carbon energy for the future.

he Rinnai Hydrogen Information Hub will be aimed at building services consultants, engineers, specifiers and endusers. It will be online and include webinars plus all requested digital or onsite meetings.

decarbonisation through the use of Hydrogen. Heating emissions are a huge issue and Hydrogen is one answer to the Energy Trilemma, as we have stated several times,’ says Rinnai’s Chris Goggin who is also a board member of the ICOM Energy Association.

‘Rinnai welcomes the UK government’s recent ‘Ten Point Plan’, in particular the drive to

‘Hydrogen in the domestic setting is seeing up to £500 million government funding on trials for

T

•14•

homes using hydrogen, starting with a Hydrogen Neighbourhood in 2023, moving to a Hydrogen Village by 2025, with an aim for a Hydrogen Town – equivalent to tens of thousands of homes – before the end of the decade. Of this funding, £240 million will be for hydrogen production facilities.

Rinnai has made data and information contributions and

heating & ventilation

had close consultations with the lead research agency primed with advising the UK Government.

The UK, along with many other countries, faces an Energy Trilemma - the pressing need for de-carbonisation, which means a shift in energy pathways; security and longevity of supply; long term affordability to the industrial and end-consumer.

This country’s housing stock is over 24 million units and the UK had a total energy consumption increase by 1.1 per cent in 2018 to reach 143 million tonnes of oil equivalent (mtoe), the highest level since 2013.

Says Chris Goggin for Rinnai, “All questions and queries on the growing consensus on the suitability of Hydrogen as the replacement for all fossil-fuels will be answered by the Hub. Zero Carbon cannot be achieved via Zero Information on the strategies needed to achieve the goal”.

“Hydrogen can make a major contribution to decarbonising the UK energy grid, whilst also providing a sustainable answer to the political and societal questions of the Energy Trilemma,” says Chris Goggin.

The distribution of Hydrogen creates a resolution to the Trilemma questions and the very necessary decarbonisation of the UK energy grid. Hydrogen can be potentially combusted through existing ‘in situ’ appliances, complete with smart controls and cost-effective hardware & software upgrades as demonstrated by proprietary technology in hot water heating units.

Many countries in Europe and Asia are using the post-pandemic economic regeneration plans to instigate plans to switch to hydrogen as the main fuel source for housing, industry and transport.

France has recently announced a €7 billion package to build a carbon-free hydrogen industry and Germany has allocated €9 billion.

In the summer the European Commission stated it wanted to increase its production capacity of electrolysers from 250MW today to 40GW in 2030. Similar strategies have been released by the UK, Australia, and Asian countries. These moves are clear trends to massive public investments in the sector.

Hydrogen is already ‘cost competitive’ in niche applications, according to recent research, with

the forecast that it is likely to at least price-match industrial-scale alternatives in less than a decade.

Rinnai is a true global player in the manufacture of domestic and commercial appliances and operates in almost 50 countries.

Rinnai is the world’s leading manufacturer of continuous flow hot water systems - it makes and sells 2 million units each year. The range of units can be manifolded to supply, limitless hot water to any site of any size. This means fast, efficient, temperature-controlled water on demand at the point of delivery – kitchens, showers, accommodation blocks, bathrooms, washrooms - and less space spent on plant rooms with no or little maintenance as all units are proven to be robust with a long, long working life.

Call 01928 531 870 or email engineer@rinnaiuk.com or sales@rinnaiuk.com alternatively use the smart online contact points “Help Me Choose” or “Ask Us a Question”, all held on the website homepage at

www.rinnaiuk.com •15•

A range of diffusers and grilles from leading manufacturer of air management solutions, Waterloo Air Products, has helped Peterborough City Council create a modern workplace in a development that has combined the restoration and change of use of a redundant rail shed with a new build extension. In doing so, the company has demonstrated how its innovative products can blend into both new and old environments, whilst ensuring optimum performance. et to transform the riverfront south of Peterborough city centre, the Fletton Quay development features commercial offices, residential, hotel, leisure and retail offerings, a gin distillery, and restaurants. An unused site for more than 30 years, the development’s anchor tenant is the city council which is occupying a transformed Grade-II listed Victorian rail shed and an adjacent threestorey new building.

S

Fletton Quays Interior Image Copyright Bowmer & Kirkland

As part of the building services fit out, Waterloo worked with Derry Building Services on the ventilation design to ensure the specification met both buildings’ aesthetic requirements whilst ensuring efficient airflow and a comfortable environment throughout the interiors.

A distinctive feature of the old rail shed is the exposed beams and brickwork which were retained in the remodelled design to create a stripped-down industrial look. This necessitated a ventilation system that would complement the period styling and saw the integration of Waterloo’s MC Small Format Circular Diffusers.

Commenting on the specification, Andy Wardle, Sales Director of Waterloo Air Products said: “Within the remodelled and converted rail shed, our MC Small

Fletton Quays Desk Image Copyright Bowmer & Kirkland

Ventilation design strikes the right balance between the new and the old •16•

match the ceiling tiles. These products are designed for rapid mixing of air in rooms where heights range from 2.6m to 4m.

The company also supplied fixed blade grilles, adjustable blade grilles and exhaust valves to satisfy exhaust requirements in offices and washrooms. The diffusers and grills, fitted throughout the two buildings, were finished in RAL 9010 matt with 20% gloss white to meet the client’s specific aesthetic requirement.

“This was a complex project requiring specific attention to detail to ensure the finished products met the requirements of the two contrasting buildings,” added Andy Wardle. “Our team were able to deliver a comprehensive range of air terminal devices which met the client’s ventilation and architectural requirements and demonstrate our ability to meet even the most challenging of brief.”

With the remainder of this major city centre development on track for completion in 2022, Waterloo Air Products are delighted to have worked with the city council on a project which repurposes existing listed buildings alongside newbuilds and help create part of a new future for Peterborough.

Fletton Quays Kitchen Image Copyright Bowmer & Kirkland

Format Circular Diffusers were left exposed and fitted at the end of the twin-wall pre-insulated galvanised ductwork, level with the old beams. They are a fundamental part of this listed building’s new interior and chosen to provide both long term performance as well as complementing the impressive interior.”

Waterloo also supplied Airline Linear Grilles and Linear Slot Diffusers to satisfy both the air diffusion requirements and

architectural aesthetics of the new-build office. Integrated within the acoustic tile ceiling system, Waterloo’s aluminium linear slot diffusers are highly suited to variable volume applications due to the excellent low flow rate, air diffusion characteristics and high air handling capacity.

Offering high air volume capacity, Waterloo’s Vane Swirl Diffusers were also specified within the new-build office building and required a tegular drop face to

Waterloo was founded in 1961 and employs 130 people. Its head office is in Aylesford, Kent and revenue in 2019 was £12m. It became part of the Swegon Group in March this year.

Swegon is part of the Swedish Latour group and is a market leader in energy efficient ventilation and indoor climate products and systems.

It employs 2,400 staff and has a turnover of approximately EURO500 million worldwide – over £54m of which is in the UK.

For more information go to: www.waterloo.co.uk

•17•

bathrooms & washrooms

Don’t be afraid to go bold in your bathroom designs Rob Holroyd is contracts manager at Easy Bathrooms The perfect bathroom varies so much from person to person, meaning that when choosing products for new build schemes, designers often opt for pared back designs. And there’s nothing wrong with that; a simple, functional look is a safe bet to appeal to the majority of people.

But there are scenarios where daring to go bold can pay off.

Buyers are increasingly becoming interested in interior design, which is often why show homes are the first units in a new build scheme to be reserved – people want the ‘interior designed’ look.

With unlimited access to Instagram and Pinterest, society is more attuned to the world of interior design than ever before – and it is important that housebuilders are harnessing this interest.

When working on developments where the prospective buyer is easy to ‘profile’, developers are able to home in on the trends that they are demanding. For example, at the very top end of the market, with stately-style properties, the buyers are often families who are looking for the perfect luxury home. In this instance, specifiers are able to make choices that appeal to a high-end, grand style, such as a copper freestanding bath with marble covered walls and floors.

On the other hand, if developers are building country-style homes, they are able to tap into timeless designs that have been seen in English homes for many years, such as herringbone floors. This can be incorporated into the bathroom in a modern way with the installation of letterbox tiles in a herringbone format.

On the other hand, Scottish residents often opt for Nordic styles, embracing the concept of ‘hygge’, pastel tones and clean lines, meaning that rustic, wood-effect plank tiles could be a good option.

When profiling buyers in such a way, it is important to speak to them about their likes, dislikes and overall style, and transform it into a scheme that is going to work for them, their families and their everyday lives.

•18•

bathrooms & washrooms

As we begin the new year, and the challenges that face us ahead, we would like to take this opportunity to reiterate our policy of stockholding and how it is even more relevant today.

“‘These are challenging times for all businesses, and the last thing we need to make our projects even more stressful is a delayed chain of supply,” says Managing Director, JIS Europe, Richard Thelwell. “We are able to maintain the chain of supply quite simply due to our longstanding policy of stockholding providing further financial stability to ourselves but as importantly to our customers.”

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.

Furthermore the Sussex Range is manufactured from 100% stainless steel including our recently introduced Black Edition of powder coated rails.

We offer 3 formats of rail throughout the range: Electric, dual fuel and central heating only and we offer both a polished and satin finish as well as the Black Edition Range.

“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.”

“The cornerstones of our business are quite simply quality, stock holding and ultimately customer service. The three work hand in hand.”

“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.”

•20•

We source our rails ethically and take our social responsibility seriously, from our sourcing to our manufacture to our charity initiatives.

“Wishing you all health and good will in 2021” 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

Hinged shower door with in-line panel and frosted hinged toilet door with chrome fittings.

Solid surface illuminated basin unit with inset concrete effect panel and integrated mirror column.

Roman has been designing and manufacturing showering solutions for over 35 years, and is home to the UK’s largest manufacturing plant. All Roman products are designed and created in Britain, offering the ultimate in quality, precision and craftsmanship ▪ UK Manufacturer

▪ Solid Surface Fabrication

▪ Dedicated In-House Design Team

▪ Products Exceed all Compliance Standards

▪ Supplier to Major International Hotel Groups

▪ Global Manufacturer to over 60 International Markets

▪ Bespoke Product Capability

▪ Promotes Sustainability and Circular Economy

▪ Experienced in Large Project Work

For more information please visit our website:

www.roman-showers.com

Bathrooms & Washrooms

NEXT GENERATION MIRROR PROVIDES HEALTHY ECO-FRIENDLY OPTION A lead and solvent-free mirror, demonstrating huge health benefits and environmentally friendly credentials to eco-conscious customers has been launched by Saint-Gobain Glass.

MIRALITE PURE is made from 30% recycled glass and uses water-based rather than chemical solvents in its manufacture.

Saint-Gobain removed lead from its mirrors more than 10 years ago and the next step has been to remove the solvent used in the silver protection paint. This has now been achieved with MIRALITE PURE and the solvent has been replaced by a water-based paint, which is a real technical achievement due to the complexity of the process involved.

This advancement helps to improve indoor air quality when in the end application as it avoids the release of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and formaldehydes into the atmosphere, which can cause eye irritation,

respiratory problems, and other health issues.

The healthy and environmentally friendly mirror reflects high levels of light and is extremely versatile and durable for a wide range of interior design projects.

MIRALITE PURE is ideal for use in residential properties such as in bathrooms and hallways, as well as in commercial premises including hotels, restaurants, offices, retail and sports facilities. It can be framed or unframed, or simply used as a decorative feature to line a wall or add to furniture such as tabletops, doors and other surfaces. Its black coated backing also means it is perfect for creating backlighting effects such as use with LED lights.

It can be easily cut to many different shapes and sizes and does not flake or chip when drilled, bevelled or cut. For added design flexibility it can be customised with a logo, a sandblasted design or engraved.

Jenni Young, Market Manager - Premium Residential and Design & Deco said: “MIRALITE PURE is another example of Saint-Gobain going above and beyond the minimum requirements of legislation and industry standards and putting the health of consumers and environmental protection first. This philosophy results in next-generation products that are future-proofed and anticipate the needs of health and environmentally aware designers and their customers.”

MIRALITE PURE is the latest addition to the Saint-Gobain range which also includes MIRALITE VERSAILLES (clear) and three colour choices (grey, bronze and clear) in the MIRALITE ANTIQUE range of vintage decorative interior mirrors, which have been designed to have the appearance of aged mirrors whilst being produced to the latest quality, manufacturing and environmental standards.

For more information visit https://uk.saintgobain-building-glass.com/en-gb/hub/ products-applications/mirrors.

Follow Saint-Gobain Glass UK and Ireland on LinkedIn or Twitter @SG_GlassExperts.

•23•

WAFVirtual 2020: • GROHE, Founding Partner of the World Architecture Festival (WAF), sponsors £10,000 prize money for the research prize • Researchers from the University of Patras, Greece, win this year’s prize for their project that explores how rainwater can be used to help cool facades of buildings in hot cities • Patrick Speck, Leader LIXIL Global Design, EMENA, presented the award ROHE, a leading global brand for complete bathroom solutions and kitchen fittings, and Founder sponsor of the World Architecture Festival (WAF), is proud to present the winner of the Water Research Prize 2020. The Water Research Prize is funded

by GROHE and is part of the World Architecture Festival annual awards programme.

G

Researchers from the University of Patras, Greece, have won this year’s £10,000 research prize to investigate how rainwater can be used to help cool facades of buildings in hot cities. The winners were announced as part of the WAFVirtual programme, which took place online last week.

•24•

The winning project is a suspended modular lightweight front system for evaporative cooling with harvested rainwater. The structure which can be retrofitted to existing building facades will now be developed with respective consultants. Rainwater will be collected in a roof-tank and used within the system which will spray some of it onto the building, while retaining as much water as possible. During the winter season the water is harvested in insulated tanks so that in the summer months the water can be used for multiple cooling purposes. The harvested water is then filtered and distributed to different building facilities including cooling systems, sprinklers, plants or even ponds supplied through a pump that is powered by solar panels.

Researchers from Greece win the GROHE Water Research Prize Researchers Katherine A. Liapi and Kyra Papanikolau from the University of Patras say the new structure, which will serve as a prototype, ‘will combine art, technology, architecture, and mathematics’. In the future, it will be able to include planting to further support cooling strategies.

About WAF and the Water Research Prize

“What I like most about the winning entry is that it uses a clever blend of environmental and product design, and at its heart it promotes sustainability in dense urban environments”, says Patrick Speck, Leader LIXIL Global Design, EMENA and who makes up part of the judging panel.

2018 marked WAF’s tenth anniversary with a manifesto identifying key challenges which architects will need to address over the next ten years. They highlighted ten issues: Climate, Energy and Carbon; Water; Ageing and Health; Re-use; Smart City Technology; Building Technology; Cultural Identity; Ethics and Values; Power and Justice; as well as Virtual World.

Paul Finch, WAF Programme Director and member of the judging panel for the Water Research Prize adds, “We decided as a jury that this project was a worthy winner because it exploits the scarce resource of water in a creative way and promotes sustainability via a visually impressive facade.”

GROHE took over the sponsorship for the water category of the WAF Research Awards.

Architects and other consultants or institutions will be able to compete for £10,000 of funding to help explore issues raised in the WAFX Manifesto in respect of water.

Pictured: Diagrams of the winning project show how the system will work efficiently all year round

•25•

Coatings & Paints

Edward Street Quarter announces ground-breaking air-purifying tactics Edward Street Quarter, the mixed-use development currently being built at the former AMEX House site in central Brighton, will introduce ground-breaking ways to improve the air quality in and around the site. eveloper First Base has ordered the use of antibacterial and air purifying paints which will benefit residents and occupiers as well as painters and decorators, as the materials are free of VOC emissions.

The paints work by absorbing CO2 from the environment in their carbonisation process which leads to cleaner and more climate-friendly spaces.

D

To further reduce air pollution, the new neighbourhood’s design will introduce 16 species of native and non-native trees, in a mix of deciduous and evergreen, to its three predominantly green spaces – including field maple, weeping birch, Himalayan cedar, dawn redwood, Scots pine, hazel and pin oak.

The average reduction of particulate matter near a tree is between 7 per

cent and 24 per cent, according to a study by The Nature Conservancy, and large, healthy trees are the most effective at improving local air quality.

A diverse mix of mature specimen trees will give the public games garden an arboretum feel year-round and four species of disease-resistant Elms will provide shade and shelter to Mighell Street, which will be reintroduced with the development.

Buildings within the development will feature 15,000 sq ft of green roofs, the area equivalent to five tennis courts, comprised of sedums, wildflowers and other plants which will absorb rainwater and provide better insulation. Habitat features such as hibernaculum and stripped tree logs will also be installed to attract invertebrates.

To support local biodiversity, developers First Base also plan to install 20 bird boxes to encourage

nesting of Great Tits, Blue Tits and House Sparrows in the city and imbed 67 different plant species sourced from a British nursery throughout the development.

Landscape architect, Rosie Sargen of SpaceHub, commented, “We have carefully selected a range of resilient species, for example, Brighton is famous for its uses of Elm trees to bring shade, shelter and importantly contribute to cleaner air.”

Steve Eccles, project director at First Base, said: “Improving air quality is a big priority in urban locations and that is why we will deliver air purifying paint, new trees, shrubs and green roofs to make a positive impact around Edward Street Quarter.

“Keeping healthy and staying well has always been important, however, Covid-19 has brought this to the forefront of everyone’s minds. We are pleased to be leading the way at Edward Street Quarter so that our community will work and live in a safe and healthy environment.”

Edward Street Quarter will deliver 110,000 sq ft of Grade A office space, 39,000 sq ft of food, beverage, retail and leisure units, 168 new residential homes and three new public spaces. The mixeduse development will be built with a target to achieve a BREEAM Excellence rating, the globally recognised sustainability assessment for buildings.

For more information, please visit https://edwardstreetquarter.com/ •26•

Coatings & paints

House Renovation with Osmo Osmo customers Steph and James Lynch had bought a house in 2017 which was a project property. ith a lot of wood featuring both internally and externally, the couple needed to find a company that provides a high-quality finish that protects and enhances the wooden surface.

W

“We fitted solid oak parquet flooring in the living room and kitchen and the connecting hallway,” commented James.

“With these rooms being two of the most used spaces in the house, we required a product that was very waterproof as well as hard wearing. I also wanted a product that would not overly change the appearance of the original, unfinished parquet flooring, and for this reason, we selected Polyx-Oil 3062 Clear, Matt from Osmo UK.” The surface was given a very light sand with a hand sander, before two coats of the finish were applied. Due to the size of area inside, it took a couple of hours to apply the finish and it was left overnight to dry.

Having a consultation with the Osmo UK team through Instagram, James realised that this product could also be used on the solid wood kitchen worktops, so he went ahead and applied two coats of the PolyxOil finish to this surface.

Offering all the professional features of a traditional oil-based finish, Polyx-Oil allows the natural texture of the wood to still be apparent. Polyx-Oil also offers a high level of wear protection that can occasionally be topped up without sanding when required. The finished surface is also spot repairable. Polyx-Oil’s natural components penetrate deeply into the wood to create a micro-porous finish. This allows the wood to breathe naturally. After treatment, the wood is nourished from within and retains its elasticity. It becomes water repellent, stain resistant and more hard-wearing, because it meets the wood’s natural demands and does not crack, flake, peel or blister.

For more information pop onto the Osmo website! www.osmouk.com | 01296 481220

•28•

Protects with a Natural Look 3062 MATT Natural Ingredients Highly water repellent Extremely hardwearing Natural look, light reflections are defused.

Waterproofing for Homeowners – when waterproofing is required For many homeowners waterproofing is a mystery. It is a niche, unseen element required for any below ground structure.

Y

ou have appointed an architect, you have the plans and the builder in place to create your new basement extension, but in what order is everything going to happen and why are waterproofing design consultants required?

Put quite simply, structural waterproofing is a long-term costeffective way to maintain the value of your home.

British Standard BS8102:2009 (Code of Practice for Protection of Below Ground Structures Against Water from the Ground) is the standard which governs the waterproofing industry and is often used as a benchmark in failed litigation cases. These stringent standards cover durability, exposure and stress conditions ensuring effective waterproofing is the cornerstone of project success.

Section 4.2 of BS 8102:2009 under the heading “Design Team” states “A waterproofing specialist should be included as part of the design team so that an integrated waterproofing solution is created.”.

For all below ground structures, waterproofing is a necessity to provide a dry internal environment. It should be assumed that at any stage during the life cycle of a below ground structure, water will come to bear on it. From changing weather patterns to a periodic rise in the water table.

Failure to protect any below ground structure will most definitely lead to a physical attack on the structure itself, from compromising on water tightness to durability and a reduction in the life cycle.

•30•

A waterproofing design consultant should be appointed at the earliest stages of a project, but can be brought

onboard at any time – even when waterproofing solutions haven’t been included in original plans and works have already commenced (although we do not encourage this).

Waterproofing below ground structures is achieved through careful design, the right choice of materials and professional workmanship.

A Waterproofing Design Specialist will consider a number of factors when specifying a suitable waterproofing system.

• •

The client’s requirements The internal use of the structure

• • • •

External effects on the structure, such as soil and ground conditions Whether options are limited to the confinements of the project Maintenance of the system Possible future failure and designing out risks

Installation of structural waterproofing systems are usually undertaken by expert contractors.

If during COVID you have decided to extend your family home, why not consider digging down.

Feel free to contact us and we will point you in the right direction in choosing

expert architects, quality materials and specialist contractors from the onset.

At Delta we pride ourselves that we’ve built a team of highly qualified, reliable approved Registered Installers who operate throughout the UK, who specialise across our sector, meaning you can be confident of a quick, efficient installation, carried out with the minimum of disruption and fuss.

Our team of Registered Installers cover construction, waterproofing systems, along with annual maintenance agreements offering all round reassurance of long-term success.

•31•

n their eighth consecutive year, the awards recognise achievements of great merit for individuals and organisations across responsible and sustainable businesses, corporate and individual leadership, SME sector leadership, and economic resilience.

I

Previous winners of the Green ‘Circular Economy’ Business of the Year award include Brita, Westfield London, and ChicP and the winners of each category, alongside the much acclaimed ‘West London Company of the Year 2021’ award, will be announced on Thursday 4th February 2021 at a virtual awards ceremony.

Andrew Dakers, CEO of West London Business, said of this year’s awards: “In a sign of how dynamic west London’s economy is, one of the key outcomes to remember from 2021’s awards will be the exceptionally large number of industry-defining practices developed this year. Entrants this year have taken the idea of business resilience to the next level and shown themselves to be world-class innovators and change-makers. Our judges were particularly pleased to note so many businesses demonstrating that they are at the heart of their communities, stepping up to the plate when they were most needed due to COVID. “The awards night this year will be a chance to reward our region’s community champions.

People and companies who haven’t just demonstrated excellence in adapting to unprecedented shifts in our economy, but also in what it means to be a socially responsible business.”

Both James Brueton and Aidan Bell, founders of EnviroBuild, commented on their shortlist place: “We are thrilled to have been shortlisted

•32•

EnviroBuild shortlisted Green Business of the Year - West London Business Awards EnviroBuild are proud to announce they have been shortlisted for the Green ‘Circular Economy’ Business of the Year at the West London Business Awards 2021.

for the West London Business Awards. At EnviroBuild we have always put sustainability at the core of our principles and it is great to have been recognised for that. At EnviroBuild we are always looking for ways to continually improve our sustainability, it is great to be up against some stiff competition with the same values.”

EnviroBuild can add this shortlist accolade to their growing credentials in sustainability, including a Golden Apple Award for Environmental Best Practice, Green Business of the Year Award from the Federation of Small Business London, and People’s Champion finalists at the Startups Awards.

Discover more about EnviroBuild below and their sustainability https://www.envirobuild.com/pages/sustainability-what-we-give

“

Sustainability

We asked eco-materials supplier Ecomerchant to pick some of the standout products from 2020 and asked if their popularity could be linked to current and proposed regulations.

Liquid applied airtight membranes first arrived in the UK around 5 years ago.

The idea that an airtight membrane could be spray or brush applied was groundbreaking despite the use of similar means of application for protective coatings and waterproofing. Blowerproof was first introduced to the UK by Ecomerchant in early 2016. The product became BBA certified (the first to do so) in 2017 and was quickly picked up by the Passive House sector.

Over the past two years, liquid applied membranes have seen exceptional growth as the demand for airtight buildings increased. The ultimate application came in spring 2019 when the Imperial War Museum archive used Blowerproof to create the most airtight building in the UK (ACH 0.03) for storing its priceless archive of documents.

For the refurb sector, the use of liquid applied membranes is a game-changer.

The water-based VOC free liquid can be applied to almost any surface even in the trickiest and most demanding applications it creates a permanent flexible layer which allows airtightness to be delivered where previously achieving high levels were nigh on impossible.

Wood fibre flexible batts and rigid carrier boards. Insulation is a key component of most retrofit projects and the increase in wood fibre use over the past few years has been steady - but the take up this year has been exceptional.

Wood fibre is a versatile product, which offers desirable performance characteristics for new build and renovations. Being vapour permeable it helps buffer moisture, its density (up to 250Kg/m3) protects against overheating

•34•

Blowerproof BBA certified liquid applied airtight membrane applied direct to blockwork prior to application of dot & dab plasterboard. An effective, simple and secure way to achieve passive levels of airtightness.

and its natural makeup alleviates concerns over synthetic ingredients, off gassing and poor indoor air quality. The flexible batts are popular for installation between studs and the dense rigid boards for carrying render or plaster either internally or externally on timber frames or direct to masonry or brick.

Calcium silicate boards; the elimination of mould and subsequent reduction in health issues has driven sales of SkamoWall Board. The calcium silicate board is part of a system which includes adhesive, primer and plaster that combine to create a buffer to manage moisture, improve insulation and eliminate mould.

Steico Special Dry used as a roof sarking board on a Sussex Passive standard build.

Building by Kithurst Builders using naturally insulated passive panels and Steico I joist roof. Airtightness materials Blowerproof and Pro Clima.

Sustainability No carrot but no stick either!

On the subject of what is mandated and what is not 2020 is ending with a familiar scenario of promised changes and little real regulatory progress.

The government has finally published plans for a new version of Approved Document L (for energy efficiency), a new F (for ventilation), and confirmed a new regulatory standard for managing summer overheating is on the cards. This consultation phase is still in progress.

Skamowall Board calcium silicate board used to line a basement retrofit, Skamowlall board insulates and buffers moisture and prevents mould growth.

System comprises Skamol fungicide (optional), adhesive and finishing plaster.

The whole system is vapour open.

The board’s inert chemical structure renders it incapable of supporting mould growth. The improved insulation and breathability of the system allow ventilation to harmlessly remove moisture from the building. The plastered board acts as a vapour control layer whilst remaining breathable. The SkamoWall Board has been a favourite of landlords and owners of older buildings with solid walls where persistent problems often cause unwelcome maintenance costs and tenant complaints.

Education is a key specification tool The use of these products is exclusively a matter of personal choice so why are they so popular? There are several answers but largely this is to do with how educated the buyer is about building features that are desired but not mandatory within building regulations. For non-developer new build this demand is clear and growing, driven by a client who include improved building performance and occupant health within the brief. For retrofit one reason may be the limits on design imposed where a significant uplift in performance can be achieved through upgrading the building fabric where options such as orientation, outward changes to shape or ‘look’ and modifying the footprint are not possible so forcing a more open approach to problem-solving.

The UK construction sector knows that there are widespread problems with

carbon, energy, moisture, ventilation and health in our housing stock. But they persist in partial and piecemeal solutions, apparently oblivious to the interactions between these problems and the need for a holistic approach. A change of attitude and major upskilling of the workforce, especially in refurbishment projects, is required to deliver effective solutions to the enormous backlog of remedial works required to deliver the healthy, comfortable and affordable homes that are essential if the UK is to meet its carbon targets.

Health matters Since lockdown in March increased awareness of the way our buildings actually perform has been consequence of many of us spending more time at home, we have experienced how our buildings perform at times we would usually be absent i.e. during the day when we would otherwise have been at work. Increased focus on our health has broadened the interest and understanding of how building design and fabric can have a direct effect on our wellbeing, at the least this is shown as a precautionary approach to avoid known producers of toxins such as VOC’s or formaldehyde (prompted by the lockdown boom in home decorating and refurbishment) or on insufficient insulation or ventilation; at best our focus has shifted to including building health and indoor air quality (not mandated through building regulations) as part of what we need to demand from our homes and workplaces.

These documents currently apply to new-build homes in England, but we can expect further publications to pick up on Welsh standards, non-domestic development and existing buildings.

Notice that retrofit is still not a priority despite estimates that around 80% of the homes we will be occupying in 2050 already exist.

The UK GBBC report ‘Net Zero Carbon Buildings: A Framework Definition’ which was launched at the Houses of Parliament in April 2019 provides a framework on how to achieve net-zero carbon buildings in both construction and operation (in-use energy consumption), whilst beginning to provide direction for addressing whole life carbon in the industry. Again this projects well into the future with targets set for 2030 for new build but not until 2050 for existing buildings.

The much-vaunted PAS2035 (linked to the requirement to implement PAS2030) launched last summer is still not a mandatory requirement except for certain types of funded retrofit project, this excellent standard is advised rather than imposed so, therefore, is unable to deliver the intended improvements to existing homes at scale for the moment.

Mandatory inclusion of PAS 2035 is currently scheduled from July 2021 for ECO (Energy Company Obligation) projects only.

We are yet to feel the full effects of the Hackitt review and to cap the year off nicely we still have an unresolved Brexit to muddy the waters and prolong inaction.

If we are to ‘build back better’ the connection between buildings that are low in embodied carbon, low energy users, that manage moisture through material choice and design, are healthy and nontoxic to the occupants and

•35•

Sustainability

PH15 System build Steico I joist construction, Vapourblock airtight racking board, Steico rigid woodfibre sheating, blown insulation cellulose or woodfibre.

durable, can be summed up by a requirement to simply build healthier buildings an ambition that is sadly lacking from almost all the current providers.

The housing crisis has not gone away We still have a crisis within the housing sector to deal with and a lot of this is tied in with energy efficiency and energy use. The nature of the problem is neatly encapsulated by Richard Tibenham director of Greenlite Energy Assessors and associate lecturer of building physics at the University of Lincoln. Tibenham refers to The Committee on Climate Change report ‘UK Housing: Fit for the Future?’ which claims that emissions reductions from the UK’s 29m homes have stalled, while energy use in homes

•36•

increased between 2016 and 2017.

It further claims that we will not meet our legally binding targets for emissions reduction under the Paris Agreement without near-complete decarbonisation of the housing stock by 2050.

At present, there is no agreed solution to modify the built environment such that it can operate in a carbon-neutral fashion by 2050. The problem can be made substantially less dire, however, by not adding yet further energy demand at this critical time.

So whether it is carbon reduction in building operation, energy generation, design or materials choice we are facing the absolute need to decarbonise the sector, and this will need to be backed by mandatory regulations.

New build can rapidly become a retrofit problem.

Lord Deben Chair of the UK CCC sums this all up rather neatly saying “there are other influences on housing emissions.

For example, there is the fact that the Government still have not raised the standards for new buildings. At the moment, we are building more trouble every year1” in essence poor standards for existing buildings just increases the size of the retrofit market. They condemn most of what we are building now to retrofitting in the future a frankly crazy notion when we are already faced with the challenge of upgrading the energy performance of the entire housing stock, it is nonsensical to be continuously making the problem worse by allowing new homes to be built that will also need to be

Sustainability

Beltane Drive Wimbledon: Architect Tim Gledstone Construction PH15 System from Passivhaus Homes Ltd. Energy/Carbon Target: Passivhaus PLUS or net zero operational carbon. PH15: Delivering best energy performance using low embodied, healthy, building materials. Materials Steico wood fibre insulation Steico I Joists, Unilin Vapourblock airtight racking board, Pro Clima airtight tapes.

retrofitted, which begs the question why not build better now especially if this is straightforward to achieve. This situation is made worse by the various ways in which the law allows buildings to be built to historic standards2 astoundingly Government data shows that 62 per cent of homes that Persimmon built in 2018 were to standards that pre-date the 2013 Building Regulations, as were 52 per cent of Taylor Wimpey’s and 47 per cent of Barratt’s. They are not alone as government data shows that 12 per cent of the new homes built in 2018 were rated EPC C, whilst 7 per cent were rated D or below3.

So little remains in terms of positive regulatory drivers for the present. One option is to elect to use a voluntary standard such as The Passivhaus Institute developed ‘EnerPHit Certificate’ (a quality-approved energy retrofit with Passivhaus components).

This certificate sets a slightly different standard requirement to the full Passivhaus standard. Each home and building is unique and poses specific problems and solutions to reduce carbon emissions, improve energy efficiency and ultimately achieve greater energy security.

However, EnerPHit does not directly address the issues of moisture and occupant health although it could be argued that they are mitigated by improved fabric and performance. In retrofit, in particular, there does need to be sympathy between the existing structure and the intended use, ensuring that the building functions without the likelihood of creating unforeseen problems that may later degrade the fabric. This requires a holistic approach and the use of a range of materials

and resolutions to create a long-lasting energy efficient healthy building.

The use of non-standard materials like the ones highlighted by Ecomerchant does indicate to us that this process is underway and that there are many who will not wait for legislation to catch up.

In fact they may well reap extra benefits in the future when others are faced with costly upgrades simply to bring buildings into compliance.

For more information please contact Ecomerchant: Web: www.ecomerchant.co.uk email: info@ecomerchant.co.uk Tel: 01793 847 444.

1 Lord Deben, Chairman, Committee on Climate Change Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Committee Oral evidence: Energy Efficiency, HC 1730 Tuesday 26 March 2019 2 See notes 131-4 Select Committee BEIS Energy efficiency and net zero 12th July 2019 https:// publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201719/cmselect/cmbeis/1730/173009.htm#footnote-047 3 Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Live tables on Energy Performance of Buildings Certificates (2018)

•37•

outdoor living

L

ocated in the northeast corner of Norway overlooking the Barents Sea, the new Domen Viewpoint has just opened to tourists visiting the unique destination. Offering unparalleled views of the vast untouched area, the sustainably designed building, comprising hardwearing Kebony wood, provides much-needed shelter from the harsh arctic climate, and has already become a landmark for adventurers on their journey to discover the natural beauty of the Norwegian countryside.

Open for Business: Breath taking Domen Viewpoint in Norway offers visitors stunning views of arctic landscape Sustainably designed with Kebony wood to help visitors connect with nature

At the peak of a mountain, the rest and viewpoint building is drawing crowds of adventurers largely due to the magnificent views it offers of Arctic land, fjords and the sea - perfect for nature enthusiasts to enjoy the amazingly rich wildlife and stunning landscape. Designed by biotope Architects, the dome consists of three small buildings designed with a steel frame, clad with whitewashed pine panel and Norwegian-made Kebony wood on the inside, with a light pink tinge in the glass.

Situated in Vardø, the only community in Norway to still sit within the arctic climate zone, the surrounding area is characterized by long, cold winters and short, cool summers. Built by local company,Finnmark Entreprenør, and commissioned by the National Scenic Routes of Norway, the viewpoint has been stylishly designed in white to blend with the winter landscape experienced for half of the year, while the interiors are sustainably clad with Kebony wood.

Highly resistant to wear and weathering, global leader in the production of sustainable wood, Kebony requires no maintenance beyond normal cleaning and adopts a beautiful silver-grey patina over time.

Commenting on the use of Kebony, Tormod Amundsen, Architect said,‘The warm colouring of Kebony contrasts the cold white landscape and exterior cladding very well. Kebony itself is a supreme material, and we look forward to seeing how it will gain a nice patina over time.’

Developed in Norway, Kebony’s revolutionary technology is an environmentally friendly and patented process which modifies sustainably sourced softwoods by heating the wood with furfuryl alcohol - an agricultural by-product. By polymerising the wood’s cell wall, the softwoods permanently take on the attributes of tropical hardwood including high durability, hardness and dimensional stability. This unique process also provides Kebony with its characteristic appearance, which will age with the natural landscape surrounding the Domen viewpoint.

Mette Valen, Sales Manager Norway at Kebony added: “We are delighted to being used so extensively in this stunning viewpoint, which really sets a new standard for environmentallyfriendly construction. It was a pleasure to work with the team to realise the vision for the innovative project.”

s

PoolLock Safety Covers

PoolLock Slatted Covers

t

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

outdoor living

Changing the face of facades: Millboard launches ground-breaking cladding collection A major new range from the award-winning company his week, Millboard has launched a suite of cutting-edge cladding materials that will cement the company’s reputation as one of Britain’s leading home and garden material manufacturers.

T

In its thirteen-year history, Millboard has continually broken new ground, notably for its flagship UV, split, rot and slipresistant decking product that has been used in builds as prestigious as the Burj Al Arab, Kew Gardens and Wimbledon.

The new range of cladding takes its cue from the first-rate attributes of the decking range. Available in two styles (‘V Groove’ and ‘Board and Batten’) and a wide range of colours, it provides the same assurance of UV resistance and

•40•

eliminates the risk of warping, twisting or rotting. And just like the decking range, the cladding has been hand-moulded from carefully selected natural timbers, to provide an unmistakably organic look.

From the smooth finish of the V Groove to the pleasing grain variance of the Board and Batten style, there’s a Millboard cladding style for every property type.

A year in development, this product is perfectly designed to stand the test of time and to require minimal maintenance.

In fact, the distinctive chamfered cut of the profiles enables the rain to wash the boards, dramatically reducing the need for manual cleaning.

The boards are made from a polyurethane-mineral composite that boasts greater eco credentials than rainforest-depleting timber.

The unique properties of this enduring material mean that you’ll never suffer from streak marks around window seals, be disappointed by dramatic colour changes, or have to maintain it with expensive and timeconsuming treatments.

The extra-wide sizing of the boards means that the cladding can be mounted quickly, providing a lightning-fast renovation of the exterior of a property, and the boards can also be used internally, for feature walls and dividers.

Additionally, the cladding can be mounted vertically or horizontally to suit the tastes of the architect or homeowner.

As well as providing an instant refresh to a property, the boards can also help homeowners to achieve a better energy rating.

As it is made from polyurethane foam, Millboard cladding has good insulation properties and protects against extreme heat or extreme cold. With a growing domestic focus on thermal efficiency, cladding can help to sell your property, or to achieve the energy rating you need to rent it out. Some homeowners have struggled with building regulations for putting bigger windows in, but with the insulation provided by cladding, it can often be possible to design bigger apertures into the building.

The team at Millboard are excited about their latest development, and the launch of the new cladding range represents a significant milestone for the company. The new cladding collection marks Millboard’s expansion into a broader range of high-calibre home and garden products.

Millboard Cladding was officially launched November 2020.

For more information about the product range, visit Millboard’s website or contact the team today on 02476439943 or enquiries@millboard.co.uk

•41•

Let in the light Bi-fold doors can help you maximise space, light and personality he average size of a new build home increased from 2,479 square feet in 2007, to 2,584 feet in 2019. New places might be gradually growing, but the common design objectives of most homeowners are to create the impression of additional light and even more space. Instead of looking for a bigger home, opting for bi-folding doors could bring these aspirations to life. Here Nick Cowley managing director at windows and doors manufacturer Euramax, runs through the top considerations when investing in bi-fold doors.

T

Bi-folding doors are an increasingly popular design choice in UK homes. Homeowners have been able to install planning permission-free single story rear extensions since 2019, cutting the red tape for those who desire a larger living space. However, building more room isn’t feasible for every homeowner. Instead, the large, concertina panels of bi-fold doors are a favourable choice for those that want to create the illusion of more space.

A room with a view Having ample natural light often gives the impression of more space. Natural light also boasts a variety of health benefits, such as boosting vitamin D production and, according to research, improving morale while promoting feelings of calmness.

An unhindered view of your outdoor space is a great way to harness the benefits of natural light, while creating a wider entrance

•42•

point gives the impression of a larger room.

For homeowners that want to admire the view of their garden, there are a couple of options to consider.

Sliding doors that are made of a few larger panels of glass require less frames, so are less likely to obstruct the view of the garden.

Those opting for sliding doors should choose ones made from two large panels, with one sliding over the other, to give two wide apertures.

However, bi-fold doors are able to open further to give a wider entrance space than sliding doors. It’s therefore important to consider how you want the doors to look when they’re open and shut. Bi-folds are also better space savers for those with smaller rooms. Due their folding mechanism, bi-folds do not have the arc-of-opening that traditional French doors possess, so space is enhanced both in the room itself and as a wider access point.

In the frame While favoured for their large number of glass panels, bi-folding doors still require sturdy frames. When choosing the frame material, homeowners should consider their property’s aesthetic, as well as potential upkeep.

A period property may suit a hardwood such as timber. However, these frames will need regular re-staining to maintain their appearance. Wood also risks twisting and warping in the heat, so you should select either an engineered wood or a different material altogether.

PCVu is the best choice for those on a budget, and requires far less maintenance.

Standard white PCVu frames may easily match existing windows to create a consistent look. However, frames are also available in a range of modern colour options, such as on-trend grey, so they can easily match any home’s aesthetic.

Thermal performance Large glass panes can be a chillier replacement for solid wall. To maximise energy efficiency and keep heating bills down, good thermal performance is crucial.

Energy-conscious buyers should look for bi-folds with the lowest rated U-value, which indicates the heat lost in watts per square metre. To comply with building regulations, bi-fold doors must be 1.8W/(m2k) for replacements, or 2.0W/(m2k) in new builds and extensions.

There’s nothing to stop you from aiming lower. Euramax products have a U value of 1.4 W/(m2k), making them a superb option for those wanting to keep their brighter, lighter space warm during winter.

We can supply French, sliding and bi-fold doors to suit a range of preferences, and all our windows and doors are rated A+ for energy efficiency by the British Fenestration Rating Council.

Whether you are renovating a house to let in more light or to save on space, bi-folds are a great way of achieving multiple design ambitions in one fell swoop. By maximising light and space anyone can turn a simple room into an optimally used space.

Dove House Residential Care Home adds a platform lift Dove House occupies an 17th Century, historic property in the centre of the Market Town of Ashbourne. uilt as the Dower House for the Boothby Family who also owned the nearby, Ashbourne Hall, it has been extended over the years as a private residence, then private school until it was converted to a Care Home in the 1980’s.

It provides care for up to 20 residents in 16 single and 2 shared rooms over three levels.

B

Director, Dr. Richard Shepherd, recently contacted Invalifts about the possibility of installing a platform lift to replace the 1980’s shaft lift, which had become unreliable.

After an initial site survey, Invalifts recommended and installed their compact platform lift, with a custom footprint of 1180mm x 1530mm optimising the available space.

The unit was installed in the existing shaft with fully glazed doors to maximise light into the area.

In order to comply with EN81-41, all enclosed lifting platforms require a means of two-way emergency communication, so an intercom was implemented, in case of emergency. The residents and staff were thrilled with the installation.

Dr. Shepherd said; “Thank you for the successful completion of the installation.

The two guys who did the work were professional, courteous and worked closely with us to minimise the risks of having visitors to the Home. The lift is excellent, everything as we expected and we are impressed that it was delivered on time, installed in two days and we had a really good handover.”

If you would like to know more about the our platform lifts or other access solutions, please contact the Invalifts team on 0845 468 2543 or alternatively, email sales@invalifts.com

•44•

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

50 Year old product makes dramatic comeback to help beat the virus When the Melaphone Speech Unit was

the UK have had these screens installed with

at British Rail stations, nobody could have

screens are individually made and every

predicted that half a century later it would

component is of the highest quality, giving a

suddenly be in such high demand.

clean, sleek and professional appearance in any

considerable success and approval. The

health-care environment.

The current Corona Virus Pandemic had created an urgent need for all protective

The Melaphone is still available as a stand-

equipment – both for personal use and in the

alone unit for installation into walls, glass or

working environment. This is the reason the

plastic screens, windows or doors. I can easily

Melaphone has come into its own again. Its unique design, with its resonating membrane

requires no special skill to install. The range

and air-sealed constructions, make it the

has been expanded to meet the growing

ideal device to install in any situation where

demand for the units. In addition to the original

face-to-face communication occurs. It not only

brushed aluminium model there is a stainless

offers protection from air-borne viruses and

steel model, a white powder-coated aluminium model and the newest and highly successful Himacs acrylic-resin model, which is at a very

through a screen. Its protective credentials

popular price. is very easy to keep clean and safe with an antiseptic wipe.

All of these models are available from stock and can be purchased from Melaphone VisAudio.

and designers for use in hospitals, laboratories and cleanrooms or anywhere hygiene is of

The Melaphone has now been built into the

paramount importance. It is a simple but

new Defender Virus Screens produced by the

Even after 50 years, we’re proud to still be

really ingenious invention which requires no

company and numerous doctors’ surgeries,

able to say ‘MADE IN THE UK’ at our London

servicing, wiring or electrical supply. And it

medical centres, clinics and pharmacies in

production facility.

WEBSITE: WWW.MELAPHONE.CO.UK

•46•

HOME-DESIGNER AND ARCHITECT

MAGAZINE

Recommended suppliers

Rinnai UK Main Office: 9 Christleton Court, Manor Park, Runcorn WA7 1ST London Office: 5th Floor Hyde Park Hayes 3, 11 Millington Road, Hayes UB3 4AZ

Rinnai is a global leader in gas appliance manufacturing, striving for reliable and consistent quality. Rinnai specialise in the development of Commercial and Multi-point water heaters.

www.rinnai-uk.co.uk

Leaders in the electric heating and hot water industry for 15 years.

Electric Heating Company Unit 40 Block 5, Third Road Blantyre Industrial Estate Blantyre Glasgow G72 0UP

www.electric-heatingcompany.co.uk

With more than 30 years of experience, selling to more than 120 countries around the world, Panasonic is unquestionably one of the leaders in the heating and cooling sector.

SAiGE Longlife Decking Ltd Vicarage Barns, Lower Quinton, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, United Kingdom, CV37 8SG

www.aircon.panasonic.eu