Home Designer & Architect - September 2020

HOME-DESIGNER AND ARCHITECT

MAGAZINE September 2020

Build your home of the future with VELUX® velux.co.uk

Build your home of the future with VELUX® Advances in smart technology now mean that self-builders have an abundance of gadgets and the latest devices to consider when they’re planning their new home.

And while incorporating things such as smart audio, heating, lighting and security products are all important, it is often the more subtle additions, like smart glazing technology, that can make the biggest impact on how people live and enjoy their new home.

Grant Sneddon, product manager at roof window manufacturer VELUX, explains more: “Readily available access to daylight, fresh air and a healthy indoor environment in homes can sometimes slip down the priority list for self-builders, but these are things can have a huge impact on how a family lives in their new space.

“At VELUX, we’re passionate about promoting healthier homes, and design our roof windows to help self-builders and homeowners across the UK create properties which provide them with healthier homes filled with natural daylight and an abundance of fresh air.

“We’ve a host of products that work with the latest smart technology, including VELUX roof windows that can be set to open in response to the indoor environment, and will close at the first sign of a downpour outside. Our products react to how our customers live, work and play at home.”

Grant highlights his VELUX top picks for self-builders planning a high-tech new home: VELUX INTEGRA® is an innovative system of windows, blinds and shutters which lets home owners open and close with just one touch of the pre-paired wall switch VELUX ACTIVE is the latest upgrade to the VELUX INTEGRA® product range, and uses the latest smartsensor technology to act and think on behalf of home owners. The first of its kind in the roof window

industry, smart sensors monitor the temperature, humidity and CO2 concentration inside homes and in turn activate a gateway to open or close the roof windows automatically. The smart system also prevents homes from overheating by proactively closing shutters and awning blinds.

VELUX’s website has a host of options for those planning a self-build project. For more ideas and project inspiration, visit www.velux.co.uk/selfbuild

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HOME-DESIGNER AND ARCHITECT

CONTENTS September 2020 4 12 18 28 38 48

Industry News Doors & Windows Editor’s Choice Heating Bathrooms Coatings & Paints

56 Sustainability 66 External Works & Landscaping 72 Recommended Suppliers

CONtact US Ben Pritchard

Publication Manager

01843 581364

ben@homedesignerandarchitect.co.uk

Jenna Burridge

Editor

01843 595818

jenna@homedesignerandarchitect.co.uk

Industry News

Six shortlisted for Government home of the future Housing minister Christopher Pincher has named the six finalists in the Government’s competition to design the low-carbon, age-friendly homes of the future.

Shortlisted submissions range from straw to stick-built to homes made offsite or from kits of parts with no brick to be seen.

The Home of 2030 competition was launched to encourage the best and brightest talents of the housing industry to design environmentally-friendly homes that support people in leading independent, fulfilling lives as society ages.

A winner will be chosen this autumn and together with other selected finalists will be introduced to Homes England development partners to explore developing bids for a series of schemes on Homes England land.

Home of 2030 finalists The Positive Collective (changebuilding Perpendicular Architecture & humblebee) with ECOSystems Technologies, COCIS and Arup: Positive+ House seeks to maximise our positive contribution to society and the environment, not just to minimise construction’s negative impacts. The scheme attempts to balance inclusivity, health and environmental benefits with economic value through the use of adaptable solid timber panels made off-site from home-grown timber, and the use of very low energy systems.

HLM Architects with the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre and Green Build: An ambition to develop a design standard that enables any Modern Methods of Construction system to deliver the same high quality, sustainable design, with parts that are interchangeable.

Igloo Regeneration with Useful Projects, Expedition Engineers and Mawson Kerr Architects: +Home.

Instead of standard house designs, it proposes communityled and self-build homes. Homes with simple frame structures and standardised components set amidst walkable, vibrant neighbourhoods.

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Openstudio Architects: Three building elements – a standardised housing module, an open ‘Loft’ and a circulation, storage and shared module – are used in combination with three landscape elements -communal green space, small private gardens or upper level balconies and terraces, and front gardens – to create combinations of sustainable, age-friendly spaces.

Outpost Architects with Milk structures, EcoCocon, Barbara Jones, Gaia Group Ltd, Propagating Dan, and Atelier Replica: Janus is a modular housing system inspired by traditional biomass materials (timber and straw) and construction.

Janus House uses these materials in modern ways to create a house that is zero waste, sequesters carbon, and enables a healthy lifestyle for its occupants.

Studio OPEN: Promoting community and caring for others through a central garden shared between 4 homes that are built with locally sourced materials and timber construction methods to reduce environmental impact.

Housing Minister Christopher Pincher said: “This competition demonstrates the best of British design being brought to bear on a key issue for today, and future generations: delivering homes that are good for the planet and that promote healthy, independent living for older generations.

“The winner of this competition will set the standard for the homes of the future and all six finalists have already made an exciting contribution to the designs we will need in the UK and around the world.”

Separately, in a boost for the manufacture of low-carbon homes, the government also announced that warranty providers have agreed to work towards a shared standard for assessing homes built using modern methods of construction.

Once delivered, the new standard will boost the MMC industry by making it simpler to secure a warranty for homes.

Industry research suggests these homes have the potential to be more environmentally sustainable, reducing heating bills by up to 70%.

IndustRy news

Millboard unveils new immersive website New website to celebrate over ten years in the landscaping industry Millboard has launched a new website that demonstrates the company’s flair for customer-focused innovation. Built on exhaustive customer research and feedback, the new site is designed to be effortless and intuitive, providing inspiration for homeowners and industry professionals alike.

Since launching their unique wood-look decking boards over a decade ago, Millboard has earned a reputation for quality and distinction. The company commissioned a new website to mirror the same values across their digital presence,

and to provide an enhanced customer experience.

Caroline Birdsall, Millboard’s Marketing Manager, states that, ‘Millboard has undoubtedly established itself as a premium brand and we needed the look and the feel of the website to reflect that.

But we also wanted it to do more than that, and to include more of what our customers have told us they’d like to see.’

The new website makes extensive use of impactful, high-definition photography and video, and hosts an inspiration section

containing projects, galleries and an outdoor living blog. The whole website is clearly signposted to guide visitors towards a range of helpful services.

Ordering a free sample or finding a local supplier is now completely effortless.

The new site also contains a custom-built unique decking calculator, to give visitors the opportunity to plan their projects in full.

The website was built by award-winning Northern Irish digital agency, Eyekiller.

Eyekiller’s prestigious client list includes Van Morrison and the BBC, and they’ve also built campaign websites for various Coca-Cola brands. Eyekiller’s team carried out leading-edge research into the browsing needs of Millboard’s customers and this informed the content and design.

The site is now information rich and offers practical information, installation advice and a library of resources for architects and landscapers.

Birdsall writes, ‘We are thrilled with the new site. It’s so intuitive and user-friendly, and because of the initial research phase, it boasts an improved customer journey.

Quite simply, everything is where you want it to be. The Buying Guide is also proving to be a popular feature, and we are hearing a lot of feedback that confirms that it’s a valuable addition.’

The new site marks another milestone in the company’s evolution and cements its reputation as a distinctive and cuttingedge brand.

The new website can be visited at www.millboard.co.uk

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P M a is g e si ng

Industry News

Cormar Carpet Company Best Carpet Manufacturer Cormar Carpet Company is delighted to be voted the UK’s Best Carpet Manufacturer again, by readers of Interiors Monthly – for the eighth consecutive year.

A truly Great British success story, Cormar Carpets has been manufacturing carpet in the UK for more than 60 years, from its mills in Lancashire, offering a first-class delivery service to retailers, wholesalers and flooring contractors throughout the UK and Ireland. “This year, with all the turbulence and uncertainty caused by the Coronvirus outbreak, we’re especially pleased to be awarded the UK’s Best Carpet Manufacturer. We’ve had a long history in the trade, but we’ve never experienced anything quite like the last three months. In common with most businesses it’s been a real challenge, and although it may not be over yet, I’m delighted to say that we are experiencing strong demand and support from our customers as we start to come out of the other side,” said David Cormack, Marketing Director at Cormar, whose father founded the business.

Cormar are well known for introducing popular, good value carpet ranges into the market and this year has been no exception. Their successful Wool Twist range – Natural Berber Twist was re-launched at the beginning of the year with an improved look and colour palette. This was followed by a recolouration of their popular stain resistant Primo Plus quality.

All 18 plain shades in the range are also now available in the heavier pile weight Primo Ultra quality as well. Following on from this Spring/Summer launch, Cormar are gearing up for further launches later in the year.

One of the factors in Cormar’s success is their on-time delivery. Within the carpet manufacturing sector, Cormar owns the UK’s largest delivery fleet, making delivery times more certain and ensuring that carpets get to their customers as quickly and efficiently as possible.

The investment three years ago in their Regional Distribution Centre in Hemel Hempstead, has certainly helped this market leading service. The 130,000 sq. ft. distribution centre has consolidated and strengthened their national distribution network across the South of England and now services over 40% of their UK customer base.

Digital, remains a strong differentiator for Cormar. Launched in 2012, Cormar’s award-winning trade portal is now used by over 40% of its’ customers - and offers retailers the opportunity to place orders and check stock easily day or night 24/7, as well as being able to check their account and place cutting sample orders. Cormar’s consumer website continues to grow too – it’s the most searched for carpet manufacturer in the UK and the number of consumers searching for their nearest retailer stockist is increasing, helping to drive business to retail stores!

Over 1 million homes a year furnish their homes with a carpet from Cormar Carpet Company, adding weight to the many awards Cormar receive from the trade. In the last year Cormar has also received a 5-star TrustPilot score from thousands satisfied homeowners across UK and Ireland.

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Industry News

COMPLIANT DOOR CLOSING A door closer is a mechanical device that reduces the physical burden of opening and shutting doors, and can be housed above, beneath or within the door unit. Door closers play a crucial role across many commercial buildings, yet despite this, many building owners remain unaware of their importance, which could be contributing to inadequate specification choices. Here, David Saxby, Senior Category Manager at IronmongeryDirect, highlights some of the key considerations for specifiers as well as some recommended solutions. pproved Document B (Fire safety) in England and Wales, Section 2 in Scotland and Part E in Northern Ireland, require fire doors to be fitted with a minimum ‘power size 3’, CE accredited self-closing device that will reliably close the door within 25 seconds to prevent the spread of flames and smoke in the event of a fire.

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For common installation situations, the ‘Lever on Rose Fire Door Kit’ offers a simple, cost effective solution for building owners. It provides all the required CE marked hardware and components necessary, including hinges, overhead door closer, sashlock, levers, intumescent seals and even signage. Different kits are available dependent on the requirements of the door such as heavy or light duty.

A building must be designed and constructed in a way that allows everyone to move freely - in line with the Equality Act 2010. This means that door closers need to reliably close, without having such a force that would prevent anyone with a disability from opening the door, or restrict day to day access for any group of users. The Arrone AR3500 is one of the most trusted and economical solutions for an overhead closer. With an adjustable power size 2-4, it is ideal for medium use areas and is compliant with the Equality Act, suitable for living accommodation and office corridors.

The Rutland TS9205 is a slim-line, power adjustable heavy duty arm door closer with an architectural finish. With a 120-minute fire rating, this overhead closer is ideal for use in student accommodations, as well as in office corridors, hotels and public buildings.

The Arrone AR3500 Door Closer and Rutland TS9205 Door Closer both feature a delayed action option that slows down the closing speed of the door, making it ideal for prams or wheelchair access.

For durability, the backcheck function on both products offers resistance when the door is opened with excessive force, preventing damage to doors, making these ideal for high traffic areas and affording building owners with a longer door lifecycle.

For more guidance, please read IronmongeryDirect’s Fire Door Checklist: www.ironmongerydirect.co.uk/fire-door-checklist

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Our new Click & Collect service goes that little bit further.

We now deliver to your local shops. Simply select Click & Collect when you place your order and have it delivered within a 10 minute drive from your home or next job, when it suits you.

Exclusions apply. See website for details.

CALL: 7am-8pm 7 days a week

0808 168 28 28 ONLINE: Shop 24/7

IronmongeryDirect.co.uk

Living the dream How to help homeowners realise their aspirational living goals

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e’ve all probably driven past our dream home, seen our dream car and fantasised over the life we aspire to have if we were to win the lottery. While a Lamborghini might be an unattainable goal for most of us, the aspiration to have a home that reflects personal style doesn’t have to be out of reach.

Here, Nick Cowley, managing director at leading window and door manufacturer Euramax, explains how the construction industry can help customers achieve their aspirational living goals.

Combined with the growing interest in interior design and home renovation, often influenced by popular television shows, UK homeowners are becoming more

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invested in the appearance of their home. In fact, a study by NAEA Propertymark found that 98 per cent of homeowners have made improvements to their properties over the last five years, spending a total of £48 billion. But what can home builders do to help property owners realise their aspirations?

Open plan living Open plan has been a popular living choice for many years, as the layout creates the appearance of a larger space and combines several rooms to form a free-flowing and sociable area. In addition, indooroutdoor living is a major home trend, with many homeowners seeking to create a bright and airy space that brings a slice of the outdoors into their homes.

However, due to budgets and space, not all homeowners can make this a reality.

For example, a terraced homeowner might not have the space, permission or budget to knock down walls to create an open plan living area.

This is where additions such as bi-folding doors are able to act as a replacement for an open plan space. These doors have the ability to open up a space by allowing more light into the room, creating the impression of a larger, brighter and more open space. As the installation of bi-folding doors requires no extensive alternations or renovation to the home, they prove to be a simple yet effective recommendation for customers living in smaller properties.

this possible is by assessing the windows and doors.

Making a change to the material and colour of a door or window could make a significant difference to the appearance of the house.

While composite doors are considered to be a modern option, and many customers may assume they do not match more traditional aesthetics, Euramax supplies a range of composite doors that are available in a woodgrain finish. This finish is available in a range of traditional wood options, which can enhance the traditional cosy aesthetic for this particular home. The same colour and finish can also be applied to windows.

Furthermore, composite doors are thermally efficient, ensuring that the home is extra cosy.

SMART living The desire for SMART technology is increasing, with popular devices such as taps, thermostats and lighting filling UK homes. In fact, 57 per cent of homes in the UK are now equipped with a SMART device. SMART technology appeals to customers that want to live in a high-tech home, using technology to enhance their life by making tasks simpler.

While most SMART devices are purposed inside a home, there are features such as SMART sensors and locking systems for exterior windows and doors that can help to enhance your customers high-tech desire ever further.

Sensors can be fitted to doors and windows that alert the homeowner if they have left the house without closing windows or locking doors, whereas SMART automated

locking systems enable remote locking from outside of the house.

These products can provide your customers with the SMART lifestyle they aspire to have.

Cosy living From the high-tech home, to the cosy cottage — no two customers are the same. While some seek a home adorned with all the mod cons, others may dream of spending their days somewhere more traditional. At the same time, housebuilding in the UK is at a 30year high, with more than 240,000 properties added to the country’s housing stock in 2018-19. With more people moving into new build homes, this traditional aspiration could seem difficult to achieve.

Therefore, it’s important that builders of new homes are able to add touches of this aspiration to their designs. One way to make

While we may not be able to help our customers predict the winning lottery numbers, it’s still possible to help some of their home aspirations become a reality. Providing customers with products that have the ability to not only transform their home, but help to achieve what they aspire, will bring your customers’ dreams to life — Lamborghini or not.

For further information contact: Euramax Solutions Ashroyd Business Park, Ashroyds Way, Platts Common, Barnsley, S74 9SB, United Kingdom +44 (0)330 1340290

www.euramaxuk.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/EuramaxDirect LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/Euramax

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doors & Windows

Architect Embraces the Health Benefits of Titon’s NO2 Filters Two Titon HRV10 Q Plus units with Trimbox NO2 Filters® have been installed as part of unique self-build project in East Dulwich, London.

When architect Jake Edgley began building his own six-bedroom house, he included a mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) system as part of the design, alongside other ‘green’, environmentallyfriendly measures, including non-toxic paint and flooring.

The 400m2 house was constructed in two halves, each built around a tree, with one MVHR system covering each half of the property. As Jake designs and specifies homes as part of his job, he often experiments with different products on his own property. Having included Titon’s ventilation systems on a number of projects during the last ten years, he was already fully aware of the company’s product offering.

Commenting on the decision to have nitrogen dioxide filters added, Jake said: “We noticed if a neighbour lit a bonfire or a barbecue, the smell would still enter the house.

Fortunately, I had seen the Trimbox NO2 Filter® on the Titon website, so I made enquiries into the possibility of adding one to the ventilation system.”

The bedroom area had the Trimbox NO2 Filter® added first, and the Edgley family were so impressed with the results, a second unit was installed to the other half of the house six months later.

Jake explained: “The Trimbox filters work amazingly well, they have completely eradicated any smells coming in from outside.

In fact, if we smell smoke outside, we just close all the doors and

windows, and there is no trace of any odour indoors. The MVHR unit is already a good dust filter and this is improved by the Trimbox, and we’ve also noticed the Trimbox acts as an excellent attenuator to any noise from the MVHR unit. Then there’s the added benefit of knowing the units are filtering out any pollutants so, despite being located about 60 metres from a road, the air inside the house remains clean and healthy.”

Jake now certainly practices what he preaches, as his positive first-hand experience has led him to include the Trimbox NO2 Filter® as part of every new build domestic ventilation system specified by his company, Edgley Design.

“The Trimbox is a great product, particularly in London areas,” he concluded. “Given the rise of environmental toxicity over recent years, we always encourage domestic clients to put MVHR systems into new build homes. Including the Trimbox as part of the system should make perfect sense to homeowners, especially given its capacity to remove diesel particulates and filter toxins from indoor air.”

Titon developed the Trimbox NO2 Filter® to complement its extensive range of HRV Q Plus Eco MVHR units and combat the high levels of nitrogen dioxide found in exhaust gases from diesel engines. The filter incorporates balanced flow technology to provide class leading absorption of NO2 and is available in two duty sizes (depending on the duty required). The product is effective in reducing NO2 to an acceptable mean annual concentration level of 40µQ /m3, while vastly improving indoor air quality (IAQ). Independent tests have demonstrated the Trimbox to absorb 98% of NO2, not only in normal, continuous ventilation mode but also at ‘boost’ or higher ventilation rates.* For more information about Titon and its range ventilation systems, visit: www.titon.com For further details about Edgley Design, visit: www.edgleydesign.co.uk

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Market Leading Design for Modern Living

WINDOWS & DOORS THE WAY THEY’RE MEANT TO BE TM

Tailored To You Residence 7 windows and doors are finished to perfection, combining a modern flush appearance and unquestionable market leading design features and performance, all in a maintenance free material.

Available as casement windows, shaped windows, bay and bow windows, orangeries, conservatories, single doors and French doors - R7 has all the choices for the perfect home.

Your Home, Your Way Create an individual design statement for any home with a range of luxury colour finishes and hardware options, all have been carefully created, allowing you to replace the current windows and doors with a more efficient, secure and attractive system.

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RESIDENCE 7

Redefining Windows & Doors

R7 is here to inspire you on your journey to create the dream home.

Beautifully flush inside and out, available in a range of maintenance free finishes and a variety of styles, it is versatile without complication.

R7 outperforms many other systems with a sophisticated 7 chamber design and intelligent features.

It’s the ideal solution for a wide range of properties, from modern new builds to city apartments and country cottages to semi-detached houses, with everything in between.

Designed and made in Britain, we’ve built long-lasting partnerships with our network of highly experienced fabricators and installers who are all ready to assist you in the decision making process.

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Get in Touch T: 01452 300912 E: journey@residencecollection.co.uk

W: www.residencecollection.co.uk

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Doors & windows

State of the Art Hospital Benefits from P C Henderson’s Sirocco System Sliding and folding door hardware manufacturer, P C Henderson, has been specified for a state of the art hospital build in Breda, Holland.

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overing 128,000 square metres, the new ultramodern Amphia Hospital was officially opened in November 2019. The design brief focused on creating a new world of medical care – aiming for increased one to one patient contact, shorter waiting times, the highest level of health care and a peaceful and comfortable environment.

A key component in achieving this was the design layout of 514 private luxury rooms with adjoining bathrooms. The contactor wanted to ensure ease of movement around the room - as well as enhanced privacy and comfort.

A key solution in achieving this was through the specification of a sliding door system to separate the main room from the bathroom. P C Henderson’s Sirocco system was identified as the best solution for the project.

Rene van den Biggelaar, Business Unit Manager at P C Henderson Holland, commented “Our Sirocco sliding door system is extremely popular in healthcare applications due to its integrated hydraulic selfclosing feature which ensures the door always comes to a safe and gentle close”.

In order to ensure a system that worked well for both patients and staff – a test room was set up during the build which was used for a number of months. This provided valuable feedback which led to some further customization of the product to ensure the best user experience.

“The contractor required a system which could work with a 1.35m wide door - ensuring that even a hospital bed could be maneuvered through into the bathroom if required. We achieved this by manufacturing a custom made 2850mm length of track to replace the systems usual 2200mm track. We also designed a custom made stop which would allow the door to be held open half way across the opening - when only a small walk way was required”, continued Rene.

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Home to over 4000 employees, the hospital is one of the largest clinical hospitals in the Netherlands and utilises

some of the most innovative medical technology. With a key focus on patient comfort - patients are provided with their own iPad, which they can use for entertainment purposes, as well as to order from a menu of over 25 nutritional hot meals.

Sustainability is also high on the hospitals agenda – with systems in place to generate approximately 85% of its own energy needs. The use of P C Henderson’s Sirocco system assisted towards this through its hydraulic self-closing feature which requires zero electric input.

Sirocco sliding door gear caters for doors weighing up to 80kg and is available with a number of optional extras to further add to the sophistication of the product – including a delayed closing timer and fascia.

Visit www.pchenderson.com for further details.

Whether your project is big or small, we can help you achieve your glazing vision; you dream it, we’ll deliver it! Call us on 0208 997 2448, or email marcus@1stfoldinslidingdoors.co.uk

1ST FOLDING SLIDING DOORS • 26 Wadsworth Road, Perivale, UB6 7JZ | 141 Hook Road, KT6 5AR • marcus@1stfoldingslidingdoors.co.uk • T: 0208 997 2448 | F: 0208 997 0611

Editor's choice

MULTIPANEL MAKE IT BRITISH What did companies that saw significant growth during and after the previous recessions have in common? n these challenging times, we need to look at those IPG suppliers who are not just flying their ‘open for business as usual’ flag but are continuing to innovate and introduce new and exciting products to the marketplace.

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Multipanel, the UK’s leading brand of waterproof wall panels for bathrooms, recently announced the launch of the Neutrals Collection, an exciting addition to their existing marine grade plywood panels which offers consumers greater flexibility in bathroom design and full room application. Comprising five subtle colours: Creamy White, Parchment, Clay, Dove Grey and Pebble Grey, these contemporary decors are reminiscent of painted walls with a stunning eggshell finish and have been hand-picked to complement

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the best sellers from the existing Linda Barker, Classic and Heritage Collections.

As with all Multipanel plywood panels, this collection is 100% waterproof with no need for grout and thanks to Multipanel’s unique Hydrolock® system, installation is quick and easy and makes is possible to join panels with a virtually seamless connection. Made using FSC certified materials, these panels are 100% recyclable, easy to clean and maintain and come with a 15-year warranty. And, importantly in the current climate, they are made in Britain.

John Mortimer, Sales Director, at Multipanel said: “By introducing the Neutrals Collection we are offering consumers even more choice and flexibility in bathroom

design. We are confident that our ‘perfect pairing’ solution will inspire consumers to become more adventurous in their choice of bathroom décor.”

The launch is being supported by a complete brochure redesign featuring a step-bystep style guide and designer recommendations. Customers and Installers now have access to new digital assets via the Multipanel website (registration required) to support the launch.

David Cairns, The IPG’s Head of Supplier and Commercial Strategy commented: “This is a good news story, its reassuring to see that in times of chaotic change, a British manufacturer is investing in products and marketing.”

editor's choice

During the infamous credit crisis in 2008, research revealed that companies that started to invest more in marketing during this time showed to perform better in the post-crisis period and experienced an average growth in market share of 1.3%.

New products that are launched during recessions tend to have a greater and longer-lasting impact during these times than during others.

Companies that saw significant growth during and after the previous recessions had the following factors in common; they acted early, they had a longterm vision and they focused on growth, instead of cost savings.

Nike Lovell, Head of Marketing at The IPG said: “For any organisation in times like these, it is especially crucial to focus on good marketing and Multipanel have done just that.

The British consumer may now appreciate the value of products made in the UK.” For more information please visit: www.the-ipg.co.uk

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heating

Radiator trade body launch consumer campaign to stamp out poor quality The Manufacturers Association of Radiators and Convectors (MARC), is committed to product satisfaction and consumer assurance. Members pledge to raise standards and compliance, through a series of initiatives the first one being a targeted consumer campaign.

Launching today, 2nd July 2020, the ‘You are what you Heat’ campaign represents that it is important to have quality, *CE marked radiators, in order for heating systems and homes to be fit and healthy, which applies to all products sold into the construction industry, including those purchased online.

Isaac Occhipinti, Head of external affairs, MARC said; “MARC members are committed to driving change.

Members are proud of their brand and what it stands for.

The ‘You are what you Heat’ campaign has been created to ensure that consumers are aware of the importance of having quality, radiators that conform to current standards, installed in their home. Installing radiators that do not conform could result in cold, expensive and inefficient homes.”

“MARC wants to protect consumers and ensure industry wide compliance with the Construction Products Regulations, which applies to all products sold into the industry, including those purchased online.”

“For us, that means working across the whole industry to ensure that all companies comply with the regulations, and that their marketing materials and product performance data are correct. Inflated heat outputs

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on product packaging defraud consumers. False claims leave consumers cold, out of pocket, and with a bitter taste which reflects badly throughout the industry.”

“It’s not just the consumer who is affected. The environmental effects are considerable.

“Poor quality radiators simply don’t last long, and lead to bigger carbon costs as they need replacing more often.

In addition, a radiator that has overstated its heat output will lead to a boiler that can’t condense properly.”

“It will, therefore, burn more fossil fuels and cause higher amounts of carbon to be released into the atmosphere.”

“Unfortunately, many consumers are not aware of what they need to be looking for when purchasing a radiator. Which is why we have produced a ‘Consumer guide

to Buying the right Radiator’. One guaranteed way that consumers can have product assurance is to look out for MARC membership!”

“All members of MARC must provide proof of product performance (CE marking), together with test certificates.”

For more information about MARC please visit www.marcuk.com

Members of MARC are; • Castrads • DQ Heating • Irsap • Kudox • Purmo • SBH Radiators • Stelrad Radiator Group • Terma • Towelrads • Zehnder Group You can download the consumer guide to buying the right radiators for your home here.

*CE marking is a certification mark that indicates conformity with health, safety, and environmental protection standards for products sold within the European Economic Area. The CE marking is also found on products sold outside the EEA that have been manufactured to EEA standards.

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Heating

WET UNDERFLOOR HEATING BLOWS ELECTRIC OUT OF THE WATER When it comes to underfloor heating systems, there are two types, water and electric.

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Heating Water UFH In contrast, hydronic heating systems deliver reduced long term running costs when compared with electric systems and homeowners can benefit from even greater savings by using more efficient heating sources and controlling it via a thermostat.

How long does it take to install?

Installing underfloor heating is often simpler than you may think, but it is recommended that systems are installed by a qualified installer who has worked with UFH before.

Electric system installations Electric systems are often very quick to fit with some products claiming they can be installed in under 30 minutes.

Water system installations Water systems do often take longer to install as time is needed to test the flow and pressure of the water.

What are the costs of installation? oth warm an area from the floor up and unlike central heating warm the people and objects in a room rather than just heating the air. Central heating is still used in millions of UK homes and causes a massive amount of energy wastage.

converts electric energy into radiant heat.

The mats use thin pre-attached electric heating wires that are rolled out under the floor finish and the heating cables can be installed directly on or within the subfloor.

Underfloor heating offers much greater freedom from a design perspective as it saves around 15% more space and eliminates the problem of visible pipes and radiators. But which one wins the race, water or electric?

Wet systems, which are also known as hydronic, involve pumping the heated water through the underfloor heating pipes/ circuits which have been laid on top of or in the subfloor, underneath the floor finish.

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Electric underfloor heating costs far more to run than warm water UFH, in fact a system like Wunda Group plc’s over floor heating system Wundatherm could save you 65% when compared. Wundatherm is a rapid response wet system that doesn’t require digging up floors and is perfect for both new and existing properties without the need for screed.

A water system

What are the financial savings?

Wet UFH uses much less energy than central heating as it is designed to run at a lower temperature whilst still providing the same level of heat. However, costs and efficiency will differ depending on construction, insulation, energy tariffs and how the heating is being controlled.

So what do homeowners need to know about electric and water UFH?

For example, a room size of 40m² would cost around £900 per annum to heat using electric UFH, whereas a wet UFH system would only cost about £180 per year.

An electric system

Electric UFH

Electric UFH is readily available as either a heated mat or as a cable system that

Running an electric underfloor heating system will cost more than a water system due to current energy tariffs.

When choosing whether a water or electric system is most beneficial, it’s worth doing some research first. Like what is the price difference between a plumber installing a wet system and an electrician wiring the electrical system to the mains?

Homeowners can expect to pay around £200 plus per day for a competent tradesperson to install a heating system, but in the case of Wundatherm, up to 150 sq. metres takes two people just two days to install and only requires a plumber when it comes to commissioning the system on completion.

Wunda prides itself on first class quality and customer service, providing free technical support six days a week, and provides the specialist service of detailed layout plans for all bespoke systems free of charge to trade customers. With these layout plans to hand, tradesmen can have complete confidence in laying the boards and installing the Wundatherm system.

For further information on the Wundatherm underfloor heating system or a free estimate, call 0800 083 2677, email plans@wundagroup.com or visit the website www.wundagroup.com Wunda Group is supported by Vantage PR

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heating

STELRAD LAUNCHES NEW ‘BOUTIQUE’ SERIES FOR BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS Targeting retail sector in particular Leading radiator manufacturer Stelrad Radiators has launched a new radiator series of existing and new radiators under its ‘Boutique’ branding, offering a comprehensive, premium range of living space, kitchen and bathroom products. he new series is accompanied by an impressive new 116-page brochure and its own stylish section of the new web site. This series offers the marketplace the widest range of styles and by far the largest selection of sizes of specialist decorative and designer bathroom and kitchen radiators on offer from any manufacturer in the UK.

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You’ll find familiar and welcome products in the new Series - with names such as Caliente, Concord and Column – but equally you’ll find new styles and names such as Como and Lecco - products exclusive to Stelrad, along with Silhouette as well as new additions and designs for established styles like the Concord Side Concept and Concord Side Chrome – and even Concord Chrome Vertical. The UK’s no.1 brand in the radiator market is adding style and appeal to the kitchen and bathroom and adding colours and chrome finishes to add to the sparkle.

The addition of a wider range of vertical radiators recognises the demand for narrower, taller radiators that need to fit a smaller radiator footprint. Small on space, but bigger on style is the name of the game and every radiator in the series offers a quality heating appliance – not just a good looking, aesthetically pleasing design for any room. These radiators provide quality heating for the space in which they sit – not just a towel warming facility - but a space heater to provide comfort for the kitchen or bathroom where they’re installed.

The addition of coloured radiators available from stock adds even more depth to the

range – with a number of the existing and new radiators available in anthracite grey from stock – offering something a little bit different available immediately from the company’s National Distribution Centre.

Most of the Boutique Series can be ordered in up to 36 colours if you can wait a while for delivery – but there’s a wide range of options now stocked in anthracite grey from stock, which can blend so well with other décor and add that additional style to many bathrooms and kitchens.

Interestingly, the monochrome bathroom and kitchen are very much back in style and can look elegant and contemporary.

The addition of an attractive metallic radiator to traditional black and white can really add that luxurious look.

The selection of options is vast but just to pick out three that will set the pulses racing – take a closer look at the new Como – a flat brushed stainless-steel rectangular tube design for both modern and contemporary homes. The new Column Vertical Concept – stunning in anthracite grey – again a combination of traditional design and modern colouring. And the new Traditional Column – a classic look especially in a bathroom – in traffic white with a chrome frame – offering just a little more style and lot more pizazz for

the home… it’s a selection that demands careful consideration.

“We’re the largest manufacturer of radiators in the UK and Ireland by far,” says Head of Marketing Chris Harvey, “but the premium and top end sector is one where we want to focus and this is what the Stelrad Boutique Series does – a new stylish option for the trade and to retail outlets across the UK and Ireland. We are offering a comprehensive, stylish collection that genuinely provides the total radiator offering under one roof – with our legendary combination of quality, reliability, availability and cost effectiveness all wrapped up in a single collection of radiators.“ To find out more about the new Boutique Series, head for the new Stelrad website at www.stelrad.com or at www.stelrad.ie in Ireland. You can call for brochures and information on 0844 543 6200 or email marketing@stelrad.com. Alternatively, you can also see regular updates from Stelrad on Twitter @Stelrad and Facebook @StelradRadiators.

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Heating To alleviate the very real problems of noise, keeping sound and air pollution outside, Vectaire has three new models in its vertical whole house heat recovery range. The Midi, Maxi and Maxi Plus are now available with integral acoustic attenuation lined with superior sound deadening materials for really low sound levels and tested by BRE. Sound pressure levels are down to <5.0, <5.0 and 6.9 dBA respectively. They are easy to install – nothing extra is required other than the unit itself – they are the quietest, lightest and smallest on the market. Efficiency, performance and economy remain the same as the standard models. “BY-AT” models incorporate summer bypass and frost protection, and commissioning is via an integral LCD. Windows can be kept firmly closed while these MVHRs provide energy efficient ventilation and a comfortable environment. Products are SAP PCDB Listed and manufactured in our own factory in the UK to ISO 9001.

Vectaire offers a design service ensuring units are installed in the best possible way to provide efficient, effective, low energy and very economic ventilation. Vectaire can also organise installation, commissioning and maintenance of these products and can supply all necessary accessories.

All Vectaire’s residential ventilation is detailed in the latest Low Energy Catalogue.

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You can have it all with Speedheat Creating an airy, open space for living calls for clean lines and minimum fuss – but you also need to keep cosy.

Speedheat electric underfloor heating can help to achieve it all. Installed with minimum disruption and no noticeable build up in floor height, Speedheat’s system is invisible under your choice of final floor finish. It is ideal for new build, renovation and redesign projects and comes complete with state of the art, unobtrusive controls. Speedheat spells the end to ugly radiators or trailing cables, with nothing to spoil the view. info@speedheat.co.uk

The renewable heating alternative

Serious about sustainability The Ultra Quiet Ecodan range of air source heat pumps from Mitsubishi Electric are some of the most advanced heating systems available. Designed specifically for UK conditions, Ecodan provides renewable, low carbon alternatives to traditional fossil fuel-burning heating systems.

With an A++ ErP Rating label across the range, homes can be heated for less while cutting CO2 emissions.

ecodan.me.uk/hda

Heating

THE IS NO

Chris Goggin o UK with some the inevitabilit the urgent ne

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Heating

ENERGY QUESTION OW A ’TRILEMMA’

of Rinnai looks, in detail, at the future of energy supply in the e of the likely outcomes and possible scenarios in response to ity of changing consumer habits and behaviour in the face of eeds to conquer climate change.

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Heating heating industry and the UK government have a vested interest in preventing the potential impact of this macroenvironmental theme.

There appears to be an urgent need for awareness campaigns that aim to change our perception and habits of using energy in the home environment. These campaigns should be driven by the UK heating industry whilst calling for support from the UK government to assist in changing the energy consumption behaviors of consumers nationwide. There is substantiated evidence from other areas of the globe that change can happen and take effect with the strategic response of social marketing in the form of “nudge” based campaigns.

here is now a consensus that climate change must be halted now by a whole raft of changes to our behaviour and habits unless we wish to play chicken with irreversible global consequences.

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Climate change affects all of us, unless, of course, you happen to be the 45th President of the USA, in which case you can carry on Twittering.

Or maybe he has a point? Are the claimed dire consequences overplayed and overstated for wider political purposes? Well, if you accept the logic that even fake news can be genuine sometimes then we need to look at the facts. The simple, accepted facts.

This article identifies the emerging theme of the “energy trilemma within the UK” and critically discusses the three main tenets of the energy trilemma: • energy security • sustainability • affordability.

66% of energy used (officially verified figures) domestically in the UK is for heating, so both the UK

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A key element of the energy trilemma is related to the security of energy supplies which is crucially important if the UK are to produce a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions (Spataru et al, 2015). It is noted by many sources that North Sea oil and gas reserves are in decline, a point highlighted by Lovell et al (2009, pg.12) who states that “the UK’s North Sea oil and gas reserves appeared to have peaked”. This statement is supported by Macalister (2010) who states that “the UK will find itself on the brink of losing its energy self-sufficiency” The UK had previously been a major exporter of energy however, it is again a major importer of fossil fuels (Pollitt, 2017). This reduction in fossil fuels is coupled with several of the existing coal and nuclear sites coming ‘off system’ in the coming decade (DECC, 2012). This is leading to significant fears over the threat of the lights going off (Abdo & Kouhy, 2016, pp 20). This point is supported by (Spataru, et al 2015, pp 95) and the UK energy regulator has stated that the statistical probability of severe power black outs would increase.

The lack of energy sustainability coupled with a loss of energy security leads to the final element of the energy trilemma - affordability. The UK energy agenda is dominated by concerns regarding affordability of energy supplies, unambiguously related to domestic heating needs as noted by (Day, Walker and Simcock, 2016, pp, 256) UK agenda has always been dominated by concerns about the affordability of heating specifically, linked with anxieties about public health. These anxieties stem from an increase in deaths during cold weather mainly due to poor insulation of UK housing stock, official statistics for the UK show every year a peak in the number of deaths during winter months that run to the tens of thousands (Office for National Statistics, 2014).

Heating This presents the government with the issue noted by (Bolton & Foxon, 2015, pp 169) UK government is reluctant to let prices rise to a level required for new low carbon investment because of concerns over the impact on the affordability. This policy hiatus is further enhancing the potential impact of the energy trilemma and presents significant potential to impact the UK heating industry as 66% of energy used domestically is used for heating and hot water (appendix.1.).

In the works of (Hamilton, 2005) on the impact of oil prices on the macro economy, he notes that a key mechanism whereby energy price shocks affect the economy is through disruption in consumer spending on goods and services other than energy (Hamilton, 2005, pp. 10). This point is further supported by (Beranke et al, 1997) who discovers that an increase in energy prices slows economic growth through its effect on consumer spending.

Industry and government action will need to focus on changing normative and social actions, a point supported by (Chan, 1999) who found that green consumption behavior is significantly related to concern for the environment and behavioral intentions, and that green consciousness and the promotion of environmental protection and green consumption by the government are both effective predictors of green consumption behavior. This points to the need for educating the consumer base to change the normative behaviors as noted by (Wu & Chen, 2014, pp. 119) education of the consumer can lead to changes in consumption behavior and the incorporation of green choices into his/her daily life.

To avoid the outcomes of the energy trilemma, the UK must transform its energy sector, this transformation is hindered by great uncertainty as to the central policy objectives and agendas which are driving UK governance (Bolton & Foxon, 2013). Therefore, it appears that one of the most rational avenues of action be that the heating industry, supported by national government, undertake a program of social based “nudge” campaigns to allay and reduce the impact of the energy trilemma by reducing long-term consumption. It is pleasing to see such “nudge” techniques happened with smart meters but more can be done.

The UK government has failed with policy approaches that have sought to incentivize energy reductions in light of the issues stemming from the energy trilemma. For example, the green deal aimed at incentivizing more energy efficient behavior. The failings of the green deal are described by (Rosenow & Eyre, 2016. Pp. 141) “poor policy design, limited financial appeal and narrow engagement with consumers.”

The heating industry, supported by national government, can utilize a social marketing agenda to reduce energy consumption and subsequent costs, through education and “nudging”. The expertise of the industry and its knowledge of the consumer supported by government regulation and incentives could create the winning formula.

The key failings of the ‘green deal’ and other government approaches was its inability to truly understand the audience benefit. These benefits need to be elicited to tap into and satisfy the underlying motivation of groups as discussed by (Lefebrve, 2011, pp.58) and these benefits may not be health, a cleaner environment, access to services or even money.

This step change away from monetary incentives towards energy reduction programs could focus on audience benefit, with an educational approach to changing and evoking social norms related to energy consumption.

Sounds drastic? Many would argue that we are in drastic times requiring drastic measures. Or we just go on Twitttering….

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.RINNAIUK.COM

‘Nudge’ techniques are described by (Thaler and Sunstein, 2008, pp.6) as actions that alter people’s behavior in a predictable way without forbidding any options or significantly changing their economic incentives.

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Heating

Clean heat to spur low carbon jobs growth by 2030 A large percentage of lower carbon employment opportunities expected to emerge by the end of the decade will require individuals skilled in supporting green heat and power, says new research A majority of the low-carbon jobs available in the UK by 2030 are expected to involve providing cleaner electricity and heat, a new report has found.

Research compiled by Ecuity Consulting for the Local Government Association (LGA) has considered the likely employments impacts of the emergence of a number of low carbon industries. These professions are seen as being central to support the government’s ambition to have fully eliminated or offset national carbon emissions by 2050.

The research considered the jobs likely to be created in the fields of low carbon heating, which will focus on areas such heat networks, Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems as well as installing technologies able to run on renewable energy. It has also factored in the likely skill requirements needed to sufficiently address demand for these systems and services.

An anticipated reliance on alternative fuels such as bioenergy and hydrogen, and increased development of energy efficient products that includes insulation and monitoring and control solutions are also covered in the report.

In England alone, efforts to move towards the government’s 2050 net-zero target are anticipated to see 690,000 low-carbon economy jobs exist by 2030. The figure is expected to rise to 1.18 million by 2050.

Ecuity estimates that 46 per cent of these low carbon jobs by 2030 will be based around the supply of clean electricity and low-carbon heat technologies, such as providing heat pumps to homes and businesses.

21 per cent of the low-carbon employment opportunities will meanwhile be represented by work to introduce energy efficiency solutions

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such as insulation and controls, the report added.

A “diverse” range of skills will be required to fill these potential employment opportunities, according to the research. Feedback from experts in the report identified immediate skills gaps in low carbon heat and power sectors.

Another key finding of the research was the leading role local councils were looking to play to support net-zero transformation, particularly around funding for skills projects that can address local needs for new jobs. One such solution cited in the report would be the development of a pipeline of skilled individuals on a local level to fulfil lower carbon employment.

Ecuity consulting added, “Councils and combined authorities could be supported to coordinate local education providers and businesses to bridge gaps in NVQrelated skills so that the workforce is equipped to meet emerging demand.”

Robert Honeyman, economic analysis head with the consultancy group, said that a wide array of new technologies and workers would be needed for any viable national net-zero strategy. Mr Honeyman said that the shift to a lowcarbon economy has been identified by researchers and economists as providing a clear route for economic recovery from Covid-19.

He said, “Local authorities can play an

important role in identifying, allocating funding and supporting collaboration between local low carbon employers, education providers and the labour force.”

“Through the implementation of ambitious reskilling schemes and emission reductions targets, local governments stand to gain not only by reducing their own carbon emissions, but also as promoters of strategic industries within their region and leaders within the net zero transition.”

Cllr Sir Richard Leese, Chair of the LGA’s City Regions Board, said that a demand for ‘green jobs’ would “sky-rocket” in number towards 2050.

He said that such a shift in the labour market would see local government having to play a vital role - based on each authority’s local knowledge and expertise - to fill these positions.

He said “Localising and devolving skills investment, back to work support and any job guarantee will be critical to ensuring everyone benefits from new local jobs, including these one million new low carbon jobs.”

“To help meet national climate change targets and capitalise on the green jobs revolution, councils need to be given long-term funding, devolved powers and easier access to complex government funding pots to help realise the government’s target of being carbon neutral by 2050.”

ITALIAN MADE DESIGNER COLUMN RADIATORS Apollo Radiators is a Gloucester based independent distributor of European designer radiators and towel rails. The Apollo Roma Steel Column radiator is stocked in three colours, White, Anthracite and Silver Grey.

Available for delivery throughout the UK within 2 days at no extra cost. All colours are available in vertical, horizontal and low level; and can be floor mounted. 49 bespoke colours are available within 10 working days.

Visit www.apolloradiators.co.uk for more info or email info@apolloradiators.co.uk

heating

RINNAI HOT WATER – RELIABLY INSTANT, energy EFFICIENT and lower fuel costs FOR UK HOMEOWNERS Rinnai’s range of ErP A-rated continuous flow gas-fired hot water heaters now includes models specifically aimed and designed for the UK domestic market. he units guarantee high efficiencies and low running costs combined with consistent water temperatures seven days a week.

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Rinnai’s range of continuous flow water heating units are being specified and installed in the whole range of domestic properties – studios, flats, houses, high-end residential houses - as installers and end users become aware of the ease of installation, and the energy & cost saving benefits.

Rinnai manufactures over 2million water heaters every year and as such is at the forefront of creating unit cost advantages for installers.

Competitively priced, the units offer all technological advances and innovations, all at a similar cost to lower specification competitor models.

The reason for the increase in popularity is that continuous flow heating systems are proven to

be more energy efficient than conventional ones and are now the preferred method of hot water provision. Rinnai units meet the demands of any size of home and are ideal where high volumes are demanded at intermittent times of the day, delivering safe temperature useable hot water.

Rinnai’s multipoint 17i water heater, for example, eliminates the problem of sudden changes in water temperature, resulting in cold showers or scalding hot baths – the water temperature you set is the water temperature you get.

So, if somebody is happily showering at 42°C and a tap is turned on to draw a bath elsewhere in the property, the temperature does not vary, and there is no chance of either user running out of hot water.

The Rinnai 16i interior model measures just 675 x 370 x 139mm and weighs in at 18kg - a one-man lift. The room-sealed unit has a temperature range of 35°C to 60°C

with direct electronic ignition. Gas consumption ranges between 4.7kW6.5kW for Natural Gas and 4.9kW36.8kW when using propane. Hot water delivery flow is an impressive 16ltr max flow.

Nominal operation pressure is 1-7 bar and it uses a 230V AC 50Hz 1ph power supply with an electrical consumption of 68W. Meanwhile, where an external installation is required, the Rinnai 17e external multipoint water heater offers greater flexibility at the design stage and offers a viable solution where flue runs are problematic or internal space is not available.

Capable of flow rates of up to 510 litres per hour at a 50°C rise, the 17e is suitable for multiple applications and can be specified for use with Natural Gas or propane.

The 17e has full frost protection and is available with a range of external ancillary items, including pipe cover box – and security cage where necessary.

For smaller properties, the Infinity 11i interior unit differs from the 17i as it weighs 2kg less at 16kg and consumes 6.10kW-21.60kW of Natural Gas and has an 11-litre maximum flow.

Key features of the 24kW Rinnai 11i are: Compact & lightweight unit for easy installation; Robust, durable heat exchanger; User friendly digital controls; In-built frost protection; Ideal replacement for large obtrusive and bulky cylinder; Compact design to fit a limited space.

For more information on the RINNAI product range visit www.rinnaiuk.com

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heating

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Stunning modern new-build in Hampshire completed with Kebony wood Sustainable family home created with bold vision of artist homeowner Blessed with the surrounding natural beauty of two National Parks, a sensitively and sustainably designed new family home, located in the heart of Hampshire, has now been completed. The collaboration between the homeowner - famous illustrator/ artist, Jennie

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Maizels, and the award-winning Snug Architects, combines bold interior design with an elegant facade built with Kebony, a global leader in the production of sustainable modified wood.

Characterised by a contextual modern design, Kebony was chosen to clad the property, carefully blending with the home’s verdant countryside surrounding to create a beautiful family home befitting of its unique location. Snug Architects chose to design two pitched roof structures connected by a

single-storey glass pavilion, making clear reference to the vernacular rural forms seen in the wider context. Wrapping around all the walls and over the pitched roof, Kebony wood, which develops a unique silver-grey patina over time, echoes the silver tones of the surrounding birch trees and contributes to the stylish, clean exterior design of the property.

Paul Bulkeley at Snug Architects commented: “The project is sympathetic to its setting and sits harmoniously in its context. Kebony’s hard-wearing and sustainable characteristics made it the perfect choice for the cladding, whilst its knotty appearance is an accurate reflection of the mature trees in the context.”

create our new family home has been a passion project, and my daughters and I are really delighted with the final product!

“Our new home has been made particularly special to us through the use of fantastic products and materials like Kebony, which provides a beautiful and timeless exterior finish and really completes the home’s natural aesthetic.”

For illustrator and artist Jennie Maizels, it was vital that the interiors reflected her passion for bold design and creative flair.

The interior is bright and full of colour, injecting life and energy into the new build.

To realise her vision for her family home, Jennie worked with pioneering companies who have dared to be different, introducing splashes of colour to their products, ranging from fabulous bright sinks from Villeroy & Boch, to coral pink bathroom cabinets from Duravite.

For the exterior, the wood cladding was chosen to not only add a unique aesthetic to the home, but for its sustainability credentials and for having the durability class of a hardwood, with a natural textured, tactile quality.

Developed in Norway, Kebony’s revolutionary technology is an environmentally friendly 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. Kebony’s environmental credentials and its natural weathered aesthetic made it the ideal material for the exterior cladding of family home.

Jennie Maizels added: “Collaborating with Snug Architects to

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100% Stainless Steel Towel Rails 25 Year Guarantee 01825 722988 www.sussexrange.co.uk info@jiseurope.co.uk

bathrooms

Managing Director, JIS Europe, Richard Thelwell, discusses their policy of stockholding and how it is even more relevant today “Currently, we are answering calls from customers on a daily basis, asking if we have stock to fulfill their orders, the simple answer is ‘yes, we do’ ”

the line find 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”

‘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 whose projects do not need to see any further delays”

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.

The Sussex Range is manufactured from 100% stainless steel including our recently introduced Black Edition of powder coated rails “We have recently seen an increase in demand for our powder coated black rails, and also our satin finish rails. More and more people are coming round to the durability and sustainability of stainless steel” “My customers don’t want to go to the expense and disruption of fitting out their bathroom to then 2 years down

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

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.

“The cornerstones of our business are quite simply quality, stock holding and ultimately customer service. The three work hand in hand” We have a large selection of gallery shots, showing the visual diversity of our rails, on our website www.sussexrange.co.uk

do have a look and should you wish any further details, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01825 722988 or info@jiseurope.co.uk

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Bathrooms PURESHOWERS.CO.UK LAUNCHES THE WORLD’S FIRST MATTE BLACK HAND-HELD SHOWER FILTER INTO THE UK MARKET

lack is the new black when it comes to tapware, especially in the world of bathroom interior design. Homeowners looking to add the statement shade to their space can now do as PureShowers.co.uk launches the world’s first matte black, hand-held shower filter.

been retailing shower filters for over 10 years and whilst many customers are happy with a chrome shower filter, those with high-end showers and fittings want something more modern and chic. We are the first in the UK to introduce a matt black design. Unique and stylish it gives any bathroom an immediate wow factor.”

The majority of hand-held shower filters on the market are available in either chrome or clear plastic. But a hot new trend in bathroom and kitchen fittings has seen modern houses and contemporary interior designers incorporating black tapware to both bathrooms and kitchens.

Hand-held shower filters are shower heads which are installed on a standard shower hose. But unlike traditional shower heads, they incorporate a water filter cartridge within that filters the water to remove contaminants such as chlorine, bacteria, heavy metals while also making the water feel softer.

The hand-held shower filter itself incorporates three different water filter mediums and comes with two filter cartridges which can last up to 12 months before having to be replaced. It is also available in white or chrome colours to suit more traditional showers and bathrooms and is currently on offer for the special launch price of £35.95 (RRP £45.95).

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Ty Lee, owner of PureShowers.co.uk said, “We’ve

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It has already won rave reviews from customers with many giving five-star reviews for both the design and functionality. Shirley Chan of London says: “I have been using the shower filter for three weeks now and I have noticed the difference in my skin and

hair. Previously, my skin would feel very dry and itchy and I had to moisturise with an emollient cream, but now my skin feels soft and smooth and I no longer have to use my creams.”

Stephen Boyle of Essex says: “It’s easy to install. Well after two weeks since putting the filter on my shower, it’s great. I never realised how much damage chlorine does to the skin.”

Jacqueline Gallagher of Derry says: “The filter does everything it promised and I couldn’t be happier. I’ve recommended it to all my friends and am telling all my salon clients of the benefits.”

The utterly contemporary matt black hand-held shower filters are available exclusively from the PureShowers.co.uk website.

To find out more, visit: www.pureshowers.co.uk/aquafilter3-stage-hand-held-shower-filter. html

bathrooms

New warehouse sees Harrison Bathrooms on track for £40m revenue

Harrison Bathrooms, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of bathroom products to retailers and distributors, has moved into a new 68,000 sq ft warehouse facility to accommodate its increasing Scudo range.

Following continued growth and demand, the bathroom supplier is on track to meet its £40m turnover target by 2023. In addition to the company’s existing offices and warehouse, the new facility provides an extra 8,500 pallet spaces and will make room for its Scudo range, which has increased its product selection by 40%.

Harrison Bathrooms has become a go-to supplier for retailers, merchants and distributors. Working directly with manufacturers to reduce the supply chain, enables Harrison Bathrooms to offer high-quality products at competitive prices and improved profit margins for retailers.

James Harrison, managing director of Harrison Bathrooms, said: “As a family-run business with roots within the industry for more than 100 years, we have made it our mission to provide high-quality products with

increased margins for our customers.

The current global pandemic is likely to hit our industry, like many others, hard.

So we are encouraging our customers to look at suppliers with a reduced supply chain to help them make better margins.

“The new warehouse facility enables us to increase our stock holding across our Scudo range and the excellent transport links will continue our 24-hour delivery service level across the UK.” The warehouse will house a two-storey showroom, which will showcase Harrison Bathrooms’ Scudo brand. Launching in September, it will enable customers to select the products they would like to display in their showrooms.

For more information on Harrison Bathrooms or to stock the Scudo range, visit: www.harrisonbathrooms.com

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bathrooms

Stylish 1970’s Bathroom Transformation It has often been said that the 1970s was the time that style forgot; but not everyone agrees. To the north of Copenhagen, in Vedbæk you will find a large number of architectdesigned classic homes from the 1970s. The transformation started in the late 19th century when the wealthy citizens of Copenhagen started to construct summer villas along the coastline. Vedbæk was just a small fishing village then; location was ideal close to the city yet surrounded by forests, fields and water.

Today the 1970’s designed houses with their beautiful yellow bricks and sharp, yet functional shapes line the leafy suburban roads. Among the lucky home-owners in Vedbæk, is 34-year-old Mads, a self-taught handyman, his wife and their daughter. As well as working hard to get their holiday home at Rørvig into shape, they have now thrown themselves into doing up their house and they are documenting the changes in their blog The bathroom in his 1970s house in Vedbæk, it’s the most recent transformation – one of the largest of its kind the bathroom has had the full treatment. Everything has been replaced with new, exclusive materials crating a hotel style bathroom. The floor-standing toilet has given way to a wall-mounted model, the old skylight has been replaced with an electric roof window and Unidrain takes pride of place on the floor and on the walls.

Unidrain raises the bar The shower cubicle, like the rest of the room, has changed dramatically. The shower area itself is enclosed by our GlassLine shower screen, which ensures that the water does not splash out into the rest of the room:

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“Unidrain has made an elegant glass wall for the shower; the glass is recessed into a frame so the joins to the floor and the wall are as invisible as possible.

A really nice result and a high quality solution,” Mads writes in his blog.

Unidrain’s HighLine Custom drain was used; here the tiles merge with the drain, separated only by a narrow groove: “I think Unidrain’s Custom tile drain is an impressive feature in the shower, the drain is almost invisible and blends in perfectly with the tiles,” Mads continues.

The final touch to the bathroom is the Unidrain Reframe soap shelf, the attached shower scraper is held in place by a small invisible magnet.

Mads wanted to change this into a room that people wanted to spend time in and he definitely achieved his goal.

Unidrain: Established in 2003 this design company has gone from inventing the linear floor drain to creating a leading international brand, spreading Danish design ethics and Nordic minimalism to the rest of the globe. From five star hotels in the Maldives, to the Award winning Herman K in Copenhagen Unidrain products and accessories play a key role in the look and feel of the most stylish bathrooms on the planet.

Discover our 2020 collections

Novellini UK offers a full range of bathroom products; including bespoke shower enclosures, wet-rooms, steam rooms, spa baths, furniture and much more. All our products are designed and manufactured in Italy ensuring quality and availability. We have an extensive showroom facility at our HQ in Italy to support specifications and technical needs., If you are interested in talking to us about future projects or visiting us in Italy, for more details and availability, please contact our contracts manager Steve Shirley: s.shirley@novellini.com.

Products available nationwide via our merchant partners. Why not visit our website or contact us directly for more details on our products and services.

FOLLOW US

Info-uk@novellini.com tel: 01727-229922

ADV Architects Datafile 10-19.indd 1

www.novellini.co.uk www.iotti.com

16/09/19 09:34

editor's choice

Worcester Bosch Relaunch Price Competitive Combi Boiler As Greenstar 2000 Worcester Bosch is excited to announce the launch of its Greenstar 2000 boiler, replacing the Worcester 2000 launched last year.

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he newly named price competitive boiler comes with a series of improvements to make installation and maintenance even easier.

The natural gas-fired boiler was initially introduced in response to installer requests to provide the brand’s renowned high quality and reliability while answering the call for accessible pricing to homeowners.

The brand has continued to take installers’ feedback into consideration, with the new-and-improved product enjoying several improvements based on real life experiences from installers. These upgrades include: • Full 230v controls compatibility • Easier PRV push-fit connection • Copper tails, for CH flow and return, included for a quicker installation • Mains cable now replaceable

Ben from Adam’s Gas Heating is excited to begin sharing this product with his customers, “It’s a simple to install, smart looking boiler that can be quickly paired with the Comfort+ II control. An awesome boiler at a great price!”

Along with these improvements, the price of the boiler has also been reduced. With the launch of the Greenstar 2000, the current promotion involving the Greenstar Comfort+ II and Worcester 2000 will end. However, the controller will still be in the boxes of any remaining Worcester 2000 boilers.

The company has embraced many of the much-loved features and installer benefits from the previous Worcester 2000, including: • Condenses in hot water mode • Quick to install with the option to pipe vertically to the boiler

• Easy access with removable side panels • Simple to specify with maximum flue lengths of 9m horizontally and 12m vertically (60/100) • C6 heat exchanger is an evolution of the WB3 heat exchanger which features in the company’s most popular combi boiler, the Greenstar i • Ability to modulate down to as little as 4.8kW 35 degree hot water temperature rise (10 & 12l/min) Suitable for apartments, small and medium sized homes with one bathroom, the Greenstar 2000 is Worcester Bosch’s quietest combi boiler, with hot water flow rates up to 12 l/min.

Not only this, the product also comes with a 5-year guarantee as standard and a 6-year guarantee when installed with a Greenstar System Filter.

For more information, please visit: www.worcester-bosch.co.uk/greenstar2000.

Alternatively, follow Worcester Bosch Professional on Twitter (@WorcesterBosch), Instagram (@WorcesterBoschProfessional), Facebook (@WorcesterBoschProfessional) and LinkedIn (Worcester Bosch Professional).

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VICAIMA LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE STRENGTHENING THE USER’S EXPERIENCE Always aiming to build the perfect online experience for its customers and partners, Vicaima, one of the largest European players in the production of sophisticated solutions for interior doors, wardrobes and panels, has just launched a new website, which aims to improve the ease of navigation for its users, providing spontaneous and differentiating interaction with all features and tools.

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et another innovation, from a company which is continuously investing in a close, modern and intuitive digital footprint.

Among the new features, Vicaima highlights the speed of the platform and the contemporary, functional and responsive redesign, strategically created to facilitate the search process for users, in line with their intentions, needs and desires.

Thus, the new website is characterized by dynamism, accompanied by carefully selected content, as well as a wide range of products, performance and solutions, with a view to boosting the digital presence of the brand in the national and international arena.

This redesign includes aesthetic improvements allowing for more immersive experimentation and improved navigation, which allows visitors to easily find the information they need.

“After many months of work and dedication by our entire team, we are very pleased with the launch of the new Vicaima website. This latest step reflects

the company’s ability to anticipate trends, innovate, propose complete and exciting proposals to the market. With the new website, the user can easily and intuitively access the commercialized products, news, catalogues, technical information, projects and news, as well as request the download of BIM solutions from Vicaima, quickly and effectively.

We believe that we will strengthen our position as one of the dominant players in the market. With the new design, we expect an increase in the number of visitors and consumption of content on our page. We look forward to feedback and the new and exciting developments to come “, stresses Antonio Moutinho, Director at Vicaima Group.

The new Vicaima page thus highlights the company’s willingness to invest in a digital sphere that provides the best user experience for its customer. The renewal follows, precisely, the thought provoking attitude of the brand towards the different markets in which it operates. This is also related to an integrated multichannel strategy, which reconciles the company’s multiple digital tools, placing it, once again, at the forefront of the sector.

Vicaima is currently one of the biggest European players in the design and production of sophisticated solutions for interior doors, technical doors, frames, wardrobes, panels and furniture parts.

Its positioning is based on the ability to develop integrated and customized solutions, oriented to different sectors, namely housing, hotel, health, education and commercial. Innovative and trendsetter, Vicaima has a constant concern for sustainability, being the first Portuguese company in the sector to obtain FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council®) certification.

Founded in Portugal, it has a direct presence in countries such as the United Kingdom and Spain and exports 95% of its production to markets ranging from Europe to the African continent, passing through the United Arab Emirates and the American continent.

For further information, visit the Vicaima website www.vicaima.com

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editor's choice

Neolith® Announces Four Exciting and Original New Su

SAFE, SUSTAINABLE,

Abu Dhabi White

Amazonico

Following the announcement of its new Six-S Collection, Neolith® reveals four more surfaces, adding to the previously launched Himalaya Crystal and Layla.

Finally, Sustainable highlights Neolith’s acute focus on ecological design, as all slabs are produced in a carbon neutral manufacturing environment.

Inspired by global biodiversity, green principles and the ongoing fight against COVID-19, these new introductions look beyond immediate visual appeal, exploring Neolith’s core values and business ethos.

Similar to Himalaya Crystal and Layla, they also embrace the six essential characteristics, which underpin Neolith’s 2020 Six-S campaign: Solidarity, Sanitary, Strong, Stylish, Sensory and Sustainability.

To re-cap, Solidarity, signifies Neolith’s commitment to its staff, customers and local communities as well as its responsibility to help those whose lives have been negatively impacted by COVID-19.

Further emphasising its commitment to this particular value, Neolith will ensure that, for every sqm of surfaces sold, the brand will donate 1kg of food to feed the poorest and most vulnerable within the territory of sale until the end of 2020.

Neolith’s loyal distribution partners will directly donate the food to local food banks worldwide, ensuring that solidarity is shared an amplified in all corners of the world.

Sanitary promotes the unrivalled, ultra-hygienic properties of the brand’s surfaces. This is particularly important during the COVID-19 pandemic—a primary concern for professionals and consumers alike when choosing materials.

Always balancing style and substance, Strong references Neolith’s innate robustness and ultra-resistance, whilst Stylish highlights how the collection has been designed to deliver beautiful, detailed patterns in high-definition colour.

Immersing its audience further into the brand, Sensory implies how Six-S slabs offer a multi-sensory experience, using the latest technology to achieve an extraordinary range of tactile, textured surfaces.

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These new surfaces truly represent Neolith’s awareness of its global responsibility as a best practice brand, working to make the world a better place. The highly original patterns within the collection will help encourage specifiers, architects and end-users alike to delve deeper into Six-S and the wider Neolith narrative.

INTRODUCING… ABU DHABI WHITE - Conjuring up sun-drenched landscapes of the Arabian coastline, Abu Dhabi White recalls the searing heat and shimmering waters of the desert peninsula. The UAE capital’s striking Sheikh Zayed Mosque directly influenced the design of this colour. The soft, golden veining and flecks of flinty grey create a subtle and delicate look, promoting a sense of simplicity while exuding elegance. The hyper-realistic texture perfectly mimics the aesthetic of natural unpolished stone, delivering a refreshing look and minimalist feel.

Abu Dhabi White is offered in two finishes, Décor Polished or Silk in 6mm and 12mm thicknesses, and is available in 3,200mm x 1,600mm and 3,200 x 1,500mm formats. The Décor Polished finish elevates the sense of luxury that this new collection promotes.

The Silk finish gives a new level of realism, seen through the intricate vein details. This transforms the slab into a captivating 3D structure, similar to previous Neolith models such as Mont Blanc.

AMAZONICO - This captivating new design transports the observer to the lush, dense and exotic rainforests of South America, with their diverse mix of flora and fauna and gently flowing rivers.

Amazonico encapsulates dark and mysterious tones, representing the dense forest floor gradually giving way to lighter colours, which reference the gradual emergence from the tree canopy.

Highly exclusive, this sophisticated slab has a special texture, further enhancing its natural qualities. Just like the environment this model echoes, Amazonico is unique and captivating, allowing the viewer’s

editor's choice

urfaces to its Latest Collection

, SIX-S Winter Dala

eye to explore this stunning surface’s textural spontaneity. A highly realistic and intriguing relief, the pattern’s earthy tones give the slab universal appeal suitable for any surfacing application.

Amazonico is offered in Décor Polished or Slate finish in 6mm thickness and is available in 3,200 x 1,500mm format.

AND FINALLY… The two remaining models which complete this new collection are Summer Dala and Winter Dala. The same design, produced in two very different tones.

Inspired by the majestic, slow-growing pines surrounding Sweden’s breathtaking Lake Siljan, Summer Dala and Winter Dala are named after one of the country’s national symbols, the Dalecarlian horse.

Central to Swedish folklore, these traditionally brightly painted, wooden statues are made using timber from the region’s unique and native trees. The statues were used to reflect the highly valued role that horses played in Swedish culture centuries ago.

Hand-carved to a high degree of craftsmanship, the special sculptures evoke enduring strength, grace, refinement and beauty.

These qualities, which are also true of Neolith’s surfaces, have been perfectly captured within both Dala designs.

Possessing a distinct and original look, Neolith has achieved the essence of this pine’s unique texture, using the latest decoration technology to create surfaces with a touch similar to unvarnished wood.

The introduction of the Dala patterns further highlights Neolith’s ongoing commitment to sustainable practice and preserving natural woodland and rainforests. Similar to other timber-inspired designs in the range, Summer and Winter Dala recreates faithful representations of tree cross sections, without the need to fell the real thing, thus delivering a positive environmental impact.

WINTER DALA - Possessing a distinct and dramatic look, here Neolith has truly captured the essence and texture of pine. This model beautifully replicates a deep, weathered timber and conjures

Summer Dala

images of the long windswept coast of the North Sea with turbulent winter skies above.

SUMMER DALA – Evoking a strong sense of summertime in Sweden, this new model emulates the beautiful, fine texture of freshly cut timber. The elegant, subtle grain throughout offers a sense of movement and depth, and the bright, neutral aesthetic guarantees it will complement every interior, dark or light, patterned or plain.

Summer and Winter Dala are offered in a Silk finish, which provides a highly realistic aesthetic. These models are available in 6mm and 12mm thicknesses and in 3,200mm x 1,600mm and 3,200 x 1,500mm formats.

Commenting on the Six-S collection, Neolith CMO, Mar Esteve Cortes says, “These new surfaces are our vision brought to life: creating a stronger, safer and more sustainable society in the face of challenges such as climate change and COVID-19. These phenomena have shifted our focus and the way we perceive Neolith surfaces. The importance of sustainably manufacturing material which both protects our society and looks beautiful, became the overarching inspiration for our latest range.

She continues, “Six-S perfectly showcases Neolith’s limitless design options, cleverly evoking the wonders of the natural world.

Produced in a carbon neutral environment with near zero porosity, it’s a safe and sustainable surface that fits in perfectly with the times in which we live.”

All Neolith surfaces are 100% organic and carbon neutral, appropriate for specification in any professional or residential surfacing application. It is also one of the safest and most hygienic materials available, without compromising on performance and visual appeal.

Neolith. The safe, sustainable surfacing solution.

To find out more about the Six-S range click here

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Paints Widely recognised as one of London’s most perfect villages, full of beautiful shops, prime period properties and green open spaces, Wimbledon is an idyllic location for any family. Therefore, it came as no surprise to Up Architects when they were appointed by a young family, who required more space, to deliver the full refurbishment and extension of their existing home. Kebony, a global leader in the production of sustainable modified wood, was carefully selected by the architects for the exterior cladding of the extension to create something truly beautiful without being ostentatious. fter making the decision to stay in their house, rather than moving to a bigger property in the area, or moving away from the children’s school, the family recognised their pressing need for more space. Up Architects wanted to design an extension that stood out from the run-of-the-mill extensions in the area, and started with the idea of a single large space that could be adapted to suit the family’s needs over time, incorporating dining, living, a playroom, study area, TV room and guest room into the brief. Now their hectic family life could take place in a modern, light filled open-plan living space, all with an enhanced connection to the garden.

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In keeping with the client’s brief, the design is simple, un-assuming and honest with two simple roof forms sitting over the main space, formed from an exposed glulam timber structure with Kebony cladding used for the exterior walls and roof.

The simple geometry of the twinhipped roofs breaks up the bulk seen from outside and defines the different spaces internally without a physical division. The timber Kebony cladding lines up across the walls and roof, with compound mitred joints, making the whole extension appear to be carved from one block of wood, with no visible gutters to compromise the sharp lines.

All the timber used was sustainably sourced and the Kebony cladding is guaranteed for 30 years. 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 only grows more beautiful with time.

Marty McColl, Director at Up Architects commented: “Following our appointment for this project, it was essential that the family felt they had made the right decision in opting for an extension rather than moving house.

We were able to create substantially more space, whilst ensuring the extension reflected the brief to build something that was beautiful in design without being ostentatious; we are thrilled with the final product and loved working with Kebony to transform this traditional suburban semi-detached house into a contemporary and more practical family home.”

Adrian Pye, International Sales Director at Kebony added: “We are delighted with the growing demand for Kebony extensions, the wood is extremely versatile and can be used for both traditional and modern properties as well as detached, semi-detached or terrace houses. It is evident that Up Architects have carefully considered the brief and created the perfect living space to meet the needs of this young family and the final product is a testament to their hard work.”

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Paints

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Coatings & paints

CT1 - The UK’s Number 1 Sealant and Adhesive using TRIBRID® Technology, outperforming old Hybrids - Made in Britain T1, voted many times as the Number 1 Sealant and Adhesive, has been the market leader for many years and is showing no signs of slowing down. In fact, they have again raised the bar. The benchmark they always set in terms of technology, has once again been raised, leaving conventional sealants a long way off to catch up with technology.

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CT1 who first coined and introduced the term and technology “Hybrid Polymer” 18 years ago, has since seen a flurry of competitive sealants using the term “Hybrid Polymer”. CT1 broke the mould with CT1 18 years ago, bringing a revolutionary product onto the market that would replace several other products in 1 tube. CT1 replaces, mastic, wood and P.U adhesives, silicone, sanitary, acrylic and butyl rubber sealants in just one product.

CT1 after 18 years and always researching the needs of the market and changing requirements, seen that Hybrid technology was outdated, and always being the market leader, wanted to further enhance CT1 to outperform itself.

After years of development they have broke the mould again and introduced TRIBRID® Technology, now making CT1 three times stronger than Hybrid Polymers with colour retention that lasts for years. CT1 now also can outperform Hybrids with prevention of bacteria and fungus for much longer

periods of time, with even further flexibility, now 385% elongation for CT1 colours, and 500% elongation in the Clear and Silver.

CT1 is also the healthiest choice of sealant to use in your home and on any project.

Boasting over 25 accreditations, it makes CT1 the most high spec and ecologically compliant product to use, including lowest indoor emissions and a NAAF accreditation. This label shows that using CT1 in your home will actually reduce the chances of allergy and asthma attacks.

CT1 is the only sealant globally to receive this accreditation.

With architects and specifiers specifying CT1 for jobs across the UK, CT1 has been the only sealant to complete large complex projects which needed a guarantee of longevity and to stand against harsh environments, where conventional sealants and adhesives would break down. One such recent project was The Wave in Bristol, The London Olympic Village, Cascade Steps in Bristol and many many more.

What really excites the nation too, is that this technology, design and manufacturing is British made. Homegrown and developed in the UK, it gives that utter assurance you are buying quality and that you have a dedicated technical service at hand.

You are not being passed to helplines or information from overseas. Its also means that during these times, you are also doing your bit to save jobs and keep the economy and money here in the UK. Visit www.ct1.com for full product information and to view a demonstration of CT1.

To learn more about our Unique TRIBRID® Technology, watch the following video: youtu.be/j5V3y0c2Hqc CT1 - The Snag List Eliminator - TRIBRID® Technology, now 3 times stronger! Made in Britain.

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Lightwell Waterproofing Solution – Case study on Medical Facility in N1 Overview Delta Registered Installers, Renderseal Ltd were called upon to provide a waterproofing solution to an extremely narrow lightwell to a medical facility in North London.

The scope of the project was to facilitate a solution for a damp, salt and mould covered lightwell wall, which was impacting negatively on staff who thought their office views were unsightly and unhygienic.

After many years of the medical facility seeking to remedy the problem by repainting the wall, continuous maintenance issues due to water staining, salt patches and algae growth lingered.

A lightwell (also known as a light well or air shaft) is an architectural feature which allows natural light to enter an interior space of a building and can also promote good ventilation in areas which would otherwise require artificial light or have poor ventilation.

A lightwell can take form as a vertical shaft within the volume of a building that typically penetrates from roof level down to lower levels. Lightwells can be an open space or with a roof making it an enclosed space.

Lightwells can be problematic if they are not drained correctly.

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Methodology After surveying the issue and identifying the problem areas of the lightwell, Renderseal Ltd proposed a solution to modify the lightwell to mitigate any future problems.

The solution was to install a Delta PT Cavity Drain Membrane to the lightwell. The Delta PT Membrane is a HDPE membrane which is suitable as an impermeable damp proofing base for plaster or shotcrete (as a water control and drainage membrane).

Due to the “air gap” technology, Delta PT would create an effective barrier to the transmission of moisture, humidity, water vapour and salts, whilst assisting drainage by directing any water ingress to suitable drainage facilities.

Once the Delta PT was installed, Renderseal incorporated vertical expansion joints to prevent the render from cracking, whilst installing a horizontal stainless-steel stop beads top and bottom. They further applied a two-coat sand/cement, finished with a wood float to provide a surface ready for painting.

Products • • • •

Delta PT Delta PT Plugs with Grommets Delta Fleece Tape Delta PT Profile

Case Study Results Renderseal Ltd have furnished the medical facilities with a dry pleasant lightwell which will remain fully protected against the long-term effects of damp, salts and water vapour.

The works were carried out over 6 days and came in on budget.

The client painted the render once it had cured to reflect light into the office facilities and are delighted with the results.

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sustainability

Quality in Construction - New product Development from Leaders in the Waterproofing Industry, Delta Membranes Delta Membrane Systems Limited lead the field in innovations within the waterproofing sector with the launch of the new Delta PT 3mm Membrane.

elta PT 3mm Membrane has been developed specifically for addressing the issues of damp and contaminated walls, or where fast reinstatement of wall finishes is required after chemical damp proof injection.

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Delta PT 3mm a High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) low profile studded membrane with a heat welded polypropylene mesh provides a key for plasters, renders and dab fixing of plasterboards.

Air-gap membranes are particularly useful in projects that require water­

pro­ofing, damp proofing or a barrier against contamination, especially in barn conversion projects. Air gap membranes allow for the immediate rein­sta­tement of plastered finishes following treatment.

Our Delta PT 3mm membrane can be used in a variety of ways, are easy to apply and offer a long-term protection to buildings and structures.

Kevin Dodds, Director said “Achieving sustainability in manufacturing requires a comprehensive view spanning not just the product and the manufacturing processes, but also the entire supply chain, including product

lifespan. We recognise the need to provide leadership, promote quality and add value in all aspects of construction especially the waterproofing sector. We shall continue to invest in technologies and to lead the field.”

We specialise in solutions, from the smallest domestic project to high-end residential developments, commercial structures and civil projects which can be tailored to even the most challenging environment – above or below ground.

We consider the entire project process from concept to completion to the very finest of detail and can provide solutions for all project requirements.

Delta has developed a reputation for offering the best technical and customer support for waterproofing and damp proofing systems in the country.

Our technical team offer extensive expertise covering a broad range of specialist systems from concept to installation with troubleshooting and every other step along the way – contact us today on 01992 523 523 or email: info@deltamembranes.com.

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“

Sustainability

WHAT IS SUSTAINABILITY? The most commonly accepted definition of ‘Sustainability’ was made in 1987 when referring to future world development: ‘Sustainable development is ‘development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs’.

The concept of ‘Sustainability’ in practice is a broad church within which a number of social, economic and environmental issues are included.

he building industry is usually responsible for around 10% of the UK economy and so represents a significant impact on areas of sustainability. The industry’s key zones of accountability are: Global warming gases from the energy it uses; The quantity of material resources it extracts from the earth; The environmental damage caused by material extraction, processing and construction; And the damage to health caused throughout the extraction, manufacture, use and final disposal of building materials.

wellbeing in the places we work and the homes we live in.

HOW DOES THE BUILDING INDUSTRY ACHIEVE HIGHER LEVELS OF SUSTAINABILITY?

SUSTAINABILITY, QUALITY AND SELF BUILD

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The industry can be more sustainable by adopting better principles and practices in the way it designs and constructs buildings. The way we design and build using the principles of ‘Green Building ‘can make a significant contribution, not only to reducing our collective impact on the environment but also to our health and

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But….

Like many other large industries, construction is very slow to change.

Economically, the industry is notoriously volatile, so it’s no surprise that change is seldom welcome or implemented.

Most change is legislation-led through the Building Regulations and industryrelated initiatives such as BREEAM; but some change is thanks to individuals and companies taking responsibility for reducing their own environmental impacts.

The core of the construction industry is the ‘volume’ house-building sector. So critical is the role of the dozen or so companies that make up this group, that their economic role in the GDP (Gross Domestic Product), is regularly cited in economic reporting as the ‘weather vane’ of all industry. Key to their success is their efficiency of production. They buy materials and erect

and sell homes on an industrial basis that maximises profits. That they manage to do this, whilst actually selling arguably poorly performing, indifferently constructed houses with abysmal space standards, is thanks to a well-oiled marketing machine that consistently succeeds at selling a premium on image, location and affordability. Notably, when the national economic output is bleak, so is that of the builders, who stop building until recovery.

This chronic ‘boom and bust’ approach to housing is one of the reasons that the UK fails to meet the need for more homes.

In stark contrast to the anonymity and indifference of industry-produced housing, the self-build/custom build sector delivers for its members, well-built, wellperforming, high quality and spacious homes. Increasingly their houses are made from materials and designs that put people, their health and their future at the centre of the process.

There are between 10 - 20,000 self-builds in the UK every year. This is less than 1015% of all the homes built annually but may constitute as much as one-third of

sustainability new detached homes - this compares with 60% in Germany and 80% in Austria where self-build is the norm.

Despite their number, self-builders have and continue to make significant contributions to advances in house design and technology.

In particular, in recent years, they have been responsible for the dramatic uptake of ‘Green’ features such as renewable energy and low environmental impact building systems. Outside of the self-build market, these are features that take several years to filter through to commercial housing developments.

There is many a volume house builder who looks upon his self-build cousin with envy.

Shorn of the profit motive, but instead equipped with a will to build exactly for his/ her needs, the self-builder is at liberty to choose the type of construction and the materials that the building is made from.

The code didn’t change and was eventually eclipsed and abandoned. Instead, building designers and developers worked towards design standards of their own adoption.

The most well-known standard, imported from Germany, is the Passivhaus standard which ensures that the way a house is built will deliver a heating requirement of no more than 15 kWh/m2/yr. This very low figure is achieved by careful design and the building fabric alone. For many already built Passivhaus homes, their heating systems have become largely redundant.

This emerging (in the UK) methodology of designing buildings to reduce their energy usage through building technology rather than adding renewable energy systems is known as ‘Fabric first’.

CHARACTERISTICS OF A ‘FABRIC FIRST’ APPROACH IS:

on the environment. Those that do vary from severe to mild and to sort one from the other it’s useful to consult the GreenSpec website which provides information about the environmental impacts of materials at www.greenspec.co.uk There are usually plenty of alternatives, but the golden rule is to ensure that the products eventually selected can do the job demanded of them in a way equal to or better than materials they’re replacing.

It is notoriously difficult to clearly identify materials with a lesser overall environmental impact. Experts can take a lot of time in examining and assessing the potentially wide range of environmental properties contained within even a single building product.

High performance and high quantities of insulation.

However, when specifying an appropriate product or material, these are some of the key low impact and beneficial aspects to look for:

Maximum levels of air-tightness.

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Use of heat given off by the occupants and their cooking and electronic devices to help the heat the spaces.

•

‘FABRIC FIRST’

Optimisation of natural ventilation.

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As part of the UK government’s first initiative in 2006 to tackle climate change, it published a voluntary code requiring new homes to add renewable energy devices to

Optimisation of solar gain appropriately located windows.

In particular, the self-builder is uniquely enabled to choose freely from the wealth of materials now appearing on the market that are not only of very high quality but also representative of a quickly growing market in the UK for ‘sustainable’ and healthy ‘Green’ products.

the buildings. That it kicked off thousands of new businesses dealing in the installation of wind turbines, heat pumps and solar panels was probably no bad thing, but it was responsible for sending house builders off in the wrong direction.

Critics soon pointed out that the adding of energy-generating technology was usually doing not much more than covering for the poorly performing buildings they were attached to. The analogy to the policy was that of a leaking bucket of water: to keep the bucket full, it was necessary to keep pouring water into it - rather than fix the leaks themselves.

•

through

Sometimes using the thermal mass of the building to absorb excess heat.

In addition to high degrees of energy efficiency, the ‘Fabric first’ method provides a comfortable environment that makes few demands of the building’s occupants. Where renewable technologies place the reliance on the occupier to operate the sometimes complicated controls, a well-built energy efficient building has already done all the work for them.

• • • •

Products that perform well and are easy to build with Materials made from renewable crops such as timber, wool or hemp.

Products manufactured from abundant resources such as lime, clay or rock.

Products which minimise the use of fossil-fuel energy in the manufacturing process (embodied carbon).

Materials which, as a part of their function, improve a building’s energy efficiency.

Manufacturing processes that don’t pollute.

Materials that are safe to use and dispose of or recycle.

Products containing recycled materials.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHOOSING ‘GREEN’ BUILDING MATERIALS ‘Green’ building materials are products that have a lesser environmental impact than other materials that might be used for the same ‘job’ in the building. Apart from environmental preferences, Green materials are also usually associated with high levels of performance and safe user-friendliness.

Of course, not all the building materials we employ have significant damaging effects

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Sustainability

THE HEALTHY HOME Whether it be sleeping, eating, relaxing or working, we spend most of our day inhabiting our homes. Because of that time in a familiar space, we become adept at managing its environment. We are familiar with controlling lighting, heating and ventilation through simply throwing a switch or opening a window. Though the technologies have changed, the basic control actions are as they have been for generations.

Though the basic provision of light and warmth is unchanged, the contents of the air we breathe has altered over the last 50 years. We could now be dealing with a raft of possible toxins that if not sufficiently designed and built to avoid, could lead to serious health issues. Perhaps not surprisingly, these changes have been brought about through the way we build and the materials we use.

The principal drivers behind the need to improve the efficiency of our homes began with the oil crisis in the 1970s since when we have set out to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. In the last decade, climate change has been added to the agenda.

The combination of the two has had an aggrandising effect on building regulations

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and the techniques we use to design and build.

For our homes, the two main methods of addressing energy conservation are insulation and airtightness. We are used to using insulation in our walls and roofs, but now house builders have to learn the techniques of sealing openings in the building fabric to prevent warm air leaking out.

The result of sealing buildings could be that for many of us opening a window or just relying on the leaky nature of our buildings might not be enough to deal with the smelly, oxygen-depleted or damp air caused by everyday living.

Air contamination from materials we use in our homes is relatively new and owes its occurrence to the growth of synthetic materials. Ordinary products such as paints, floor finishes, timber-laminates, furniture, synthetic textiles, plastics and foams can emit a chemical cocktail including volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) like formaldehyde, xylene, isobutylaldehyde, and organochlorides, aldehydes and phenols.

Emissions from materials are known as ‘offgassing’ and can result in higher, more toxic concentrations without suitable ventilation.

Sadly the most familiar aspect of an unhealthy building, damp caused by condensation, continues to blight modern housing. Most buildings show the effects of condensation to some degree – from water appearing on the glass of cold windows through to damaging mould found on walls and ceilings.

Asthma linked to inhabiting in these unhealthy conditions is on the increase, caused by damp and mould, house dust mites and chemicals in carpets and flooring materials.

The direct solution to damp air is adequate ventilation, but there is also a technique of building that has gained traction in recent years. The ‘Breathing wall’ is one that uses ‘hydroscopic’ materials and membranes together to allow moisture to pass from the interior through the wall to the outside air.

SUMMING-UP, IMPROVING INDOOR AIR QUALITY (IAQ) IS ACHIEVED BY: Designing a ventilation strategy that can include simply opening windows through to providing mechanical ventilation. Above all, whatever strategy is chosen, it is vital that it is easy to understand and operate by the user.

sustainability Considering the use of ‘breathing walls’ that help migrate internal dampness through to the outside.

Avoiding materials that are suspected of offgassing toxins.

Thinking holistically about combining techniques of reducing humidity and pollution and toxins - adding up to a whole that is more effective than the sum of its parts.

Using Green building materials from suppliers like Ecomerchant. … and not forgetting the potential of indoor plants to absorb toxins and carbon dioxide TOP TIPS FOR GOING GREEN Whether planning to build new from scratch or refurbishing, this is the time to incorporate sustainability into your project through design and the careful choice of materials; Getting it right will insulate you against spiralling energy bills, provide a durable long-lasting healthy home and leave a lighter footprint on the earth.

The building industry generally acknowledges that self-builders build better quality buildings; In building their own homes, they are often keen to explore proven and beneficial systems that would not necessarily be part of a developer or volume house builder’s package.

SO WHATARE THE KEY ASPECTS OF BUILDING TO GREEN STANDARDS? Using enough insulation - most buildings are built with too little The more insulation you incorporate into the walls, roofs and floors of your home, the more heat it will retain. Insulation is probably the main element to get right at the start, so it’s important to ensure the appropriate materials are used in the right way and in sufficient quantity.

Design-in airtightness and ventilation – ‘Build tight, ventilate right’ Fewer gaps in your home’s structural envelope mean less heat lost. Good air tightness maximises the efficiency of the insulation and reduces fuel bills. With airtightness, ventilation is essential and needs careful design. Ventilation can be passive, mechanical or both.

Use the buildings thermal mass to best effect The idea of thermal-mass is difficult to understand for most of us – so it’s wise to get advice before using it. Materials such as stone, brick, terracotta and concrete can provide ‘thermal mass’. Used with care, it can help moderate the internal environment throughout the day by absorbing excess heat from the sun or other sources and then releasing the heat back into the interior during darkness.

Design for overheating.

and recyclable. Most too can significantly out-perform synthetic oil-based products in aspects that are becoming more important as the UK warms-up.

Structural systems - choose your system early in the design process Most construction techniques can be adapted to meet high levels of energy efficiency, but some lend themselves more immediately to hitting the highest standards.

This is where you will come across the expression ‘Fabric first ‘where the building contributes significantly to overall energy efficiency.

Some of the most popular systems for self-builders are: • • • •

Timber frame with timber, brick or render cladding Monolithic clay blocks and render Brick and block cavity walling Cross-laminated timber (CLT) and cladding

Increasingly hot summers are a climate feature we all need to design for. Use wood fibre insulation, particularly in rooms in the roof, but also in walls to slow down heat transfer from the outside. Think about using shading for windows exposed to the sun in summer, but make sure they’re not shaded in winter.

Deploy renewable technologies only after your shell design is complete

Make the best use of natural light

Thanks to our authors Sandy Patience & Will Kirkman: Sandy is an architect, journalist and speaker. He is the editor of GreenSpec at www.greenspec.co.uk a site dedicated to delivering information about the design and building of Green Buildings. Will is a co-owner of Ecomerchant (a sustainable builder’s merchant), www.ecomerchant.co.uk writer and speaker and has been involved in promoting green construction for over 25 years. Call Ecomerchant on 01793 847 444 or email info@ecomerchant.co.uk

Maximising the amount of natural light in your home reduces the need for artificial lighting. Windows are an essential element of the building’s performance. Modern windows can be very efficient with whole window U values as low as 0.8W/m2K. ‘Solar gain’ can help heat the home.

Choose Green materials Green materials have a range of features and benefits not usually present in synthetic materials; A majority are less polluting, safer

Self-builders have led the way in terms of adopting renewable technologies to best effect, the golden rule here is to design the building to do the work, then match your energy needs to that level.

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COMPLETE PACKAGE OF BRETT MARTIN DRAINAGE SOLUTIONS SPECIFIED FOR FOREST OF DEAN DEVELOPMENT High performance, reliable and easy-to-install rainwater and underground drainage systems from Brett Martin Plumbing and Drainage have been specified for a new housing development in Tutshill, Gloucestershire, the village where JK Rowling spent her childhood and inspired many Harry Potter books. ocated in the stunning Forest of Dean, on the banks of the River Wye near Chepstow, Birch Grove includes 45 new three, four and five-bedroom family homes all built to a high-specification for discerning buyers. In order to achieve the desired performance and aesthetics, housebuilder ButlerWall Homes chose a comprehensive and cost-effective range of rainwater and drainage systems which met their demands

L

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for quality, durability, low maintenance and ease-of-installation.

The specification across these family homes included Brett Martin’s Cast Iron Style Cascade Rainwater System comprising a 115mm Half Round Gutter and 68mm Round Downpipe in classic black. Significantly lighter than cast iron rainwater systems, Cascade is much quicker, easier and safer to install at height,

helping to offer the developer huge savings in terms of on-site installation costs. The system also features external fixing lugs designed to facilitate the use of power tools, further speeding up installation.

In addition to the popular classic black colour specified on the Birch Grove Development, Cascade is also available in a further seven heritage colours including Anthracite Grey, Oxford Blue,

Chartwell Green, Olive Green, Graphite Grey, Sandstone and Porcelain White - all of which cater to the subtle nuances of local vernacular architecture. The complete colour range delivers the traditional appearance of Cast Iron with the convenience of modern plastic materials. Cascade is also UV stabilised for a maintenance-free system that will stay looking great and working well for years, and comes with a 10-year guarantee.

The development also saw the installation of Brett Martin’s Adoptable Inspection Chamber Assemblies available in 315mm

and 450mm diameters. Offering superior structural strength, enhanced loading capacity for long term serviceability, these cost-effective lightweight chamber assemblies are easy to install due to watertight push-fit assemblies and a solid, stable connection using the additional connection points in the form of lugs featured on both base and riser.

Brett Martin’s high-performance adoptable chamber assemblies carry the BSI Kitemark KM 635998, are tested to EN13598-1 and satisfy both the requirements of Sewers for Adoption (SfA7) and Building Regulations.

Using a reputable manufacturer such as Brett Martin offers far more than the quality and versatility of the product itself – they provide superior technical support, detailed installation instructions and maintenance guidelines to ensure rainwater systems perform exactly as promised.

With this fabulous new village development now complete, Brett Martin’s Cascade Cast Iron Style Rainwater System and a range of underground drainage solutions have met the aesthetic and performance requirements of the developer whilst ensuring a fast, efficient and economical installation.

To find out more about Brett Martin Plumbing and Drainage visit: www.brettmartin.com

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External works & landscaping

Bring the glamour of Chelsea to your garden with the ultimate in contemporary features and screens from Kangular Adding a stylish, architectural look to gardens that’s worthy of the Chelsea Flower Show or a Grand Designs makeover has never been easier, thanks to Kangular, the ultimate line-up of affordable contemporary features and structural screens that create instant impact. angular empowers the nation’s gardeners and homeimprovers to quickly achieve a sophisticated, designer look: a piece of instant artwork in gardens that wouldn’t look out of place in a gallery, but at a fraction of the cost.

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The leading range of Designer Features encompass stainless steel and wooden slatted structures in Fan, Wave and Pear shapes with heights ranging from one to three metres, as well as a range of

elegant Structural Screens and Wheelie Bin Enclosures. Shapes can be modified with Kangular’s clever, adjustable slot and wedge fixing.

Unique, eye-catching focal points Kangular’s designer range provides stunning focal points for gardens, borders and driveways, while privacy screens shield gardens from overlooking properties or neighbours – perfect for hot tubs, swimming pools and al-fresco dining areas, as well as enclosing gardens from passing pedestrians or the din of traffic noise. Not only will screens add architectural structure to garden borders or increase the height of existing walls, but they will stylishly enclose driveways, shielding cars, caravans or motorhomes from view.

Owners can ramp-up the wow factor of Kangular structures with uplighters or downlighters that add a new dimension to gardens after dark, while there’s even the option of wine glass holders to safely store drinks. Kangular screens offer a fashionable way to quickly screen-off unsightly areas of gardens – from disguising ugly wheelie bins, compost heaps, water butts and sheds to hiding eyesore utility items such as oil tanks and air conditioning units.

Kangular’s Paul Raven said: “To pay a designer and builder to create and install a structure with the high-end look that Kangular offers would rack-up a bill running into many thousands of pounds, not to mention the time and hassle that’s all too often associated with tracking down reliable, trustworthy tradesmen who will turn up on time and complete the job. In contrast, Kangular structures are quick and easy for gardeners to install themselves, while the simple process can be completed

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in just two hours, creating instant impact outdoors.”

Patented Kangular systems offer countless practical and visual benefits for gardenowners. As well as creating sight lines and partitions, the contemporary designs come into their own for framing a planted area, or for shielding delicate plants from strong or drying winds. Kangular is rapidly becoming the go-to solution for injecting adventure into bland spaces by dividing gardens up into creative outdoor rooms.

Personalised to suit your style Kangular can also be treated as a blank canvass to create shapes that suit varying styles of outdoor living. Screens can be transformed into a Christmas tree design for the festive season, or an eggshape at Easter, for example. A bespoke design service offers the highest levels of customisation, while Kangular can provide Laser marking, enabling special messages to be engraved into structures to help celebrate a special occasion.

In line with current trends for sustainability in gardens, Kangular structures are both eco-friendly and British-made. The hardwood slats that form the backbone of screens are FSC or EUTR-regulated, while structures are 100% recyclable, too.

For instant transformations, Kangular features are quick and easy to erect, requiring only a spade, spirit level and a hammer – no nails, screws or glue fixings are needed – and for additional convenience, Kangular offers a home installation service, too.

Designed and built to last Kangular structures feature angled, slotted, high-quality stainless-steel columns, strengthened by a patented wedge system, resulting in a robust structure that’s capable of withstanding the worst that the weather throws at it.

The Kangular patented column system is engineered using the latest laser tube cutting technology, while every part of the system has been designed to be aesthetically pleasing. Structures can be placed 1.8m apart and there is no requirement for planning permission. All Kangular features come with a five-year warranty and have a 20-year lifespan, while the Kangular column is warrantied for 10 years for additional peace of mind.

Prices for Kangular’s Designer Fan, Wave and Pear structures start at just £860 including VAT and delivery, while Sculptural Screens cost from as little as £460. Prices for screens that provide privacy around hot tubs and swim spas begin at £1,950.

Kangular Wheelie Bin Enclosures are available in single, double and triple sizes, with prices starting at just £1,960.

Find out more All Kangular products can be purchased directly from www.kangular.com or email info@kangular.com to find out more.

Installing the Kangular system is easy Each set comes with detailed, easyto-understand instructions, making installation a breeze. Just follow these three simple steps: (note: boltdown fixings are available, too) 1.

Dig a hole to the correct depth. Around one third of the Kangular upright should be buried.

2.

Place the Kangular column into the hole, make sure it’s upright and level, then wait for the quick-drying cement to set.

3.

Place the Kangular hardwood sets into the column, secure the slats with a Kangular wedge and your stunning new garden structure is complete

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External works & landscaping

Take a Seat: New Season’s Trends in Garden Chairs Spring finally seems to be taking a first tentative peak from behind the winter clouds, which means attention can at last turn to the exteriors of our homes once again.

This time of year, is always a busy period in the garden furniture trade, as homeowners begin to plan for how they will make the most of their gardens throughout the longer, warmer months to come.

Jo Alexander, an online garden furniture and decor specialist based in Cambridgeshire, said this is the time for landscapers and garden design specialists to get on top of this season’s trends so they can make the best possible recommendations to clients and choose products that really help to bring their plans to life.

A spokesperson said: “It’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with what’s available, what’s really catching

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the eye out there on the market, then you can add value to your clients by helping them to choose great pieces to complete their garden.”

Reclaim a seat Chairs remain a staple of garden furniture, and Jo Alexander says this summer’s stock lines offer a mix of the traditional and contemporary to suit a wide range of tastes. “We expect hardwood garden chairs to continue to be one of our best sellers,” the spokesperson continued. “They are practical, durable and look great. Wood has a special place in people’s hearts when it comes to outdoor furniture, for many it is the go-to choice.

External works & landscaping

“In terms of designs for timber garden chairs for this season, we’re seeing a focus on simple, solid, timeless pieces that are at once understated yet effortlessly elegant.

“Another really important trend in hardwood furniture this year is the use of reclaimed timber. If we look at teak, for example, which is probably the most sought-after hardwood for outdoor furniture because it is naturally weather resistant and so hard wearing, there have started to be a few concerns around sustainability centred on issues like overintensive logging in teak’s natural tropical rainforest habitat, or natural habitats being cleared for commercial plantations.

“But reclaimed teak offers a superb alternative. Pre-used teak is readily available in its native countries, places such as India, Bangladesh, Malaysia and Indonesia, where it is extensively used in construction.

Because it is so hard wearing and durable, when it is pulled off old timber frame buildings, it is still perfect for recycling to make furniture out of. A reclaimed teak garden chair makes a strong, sustainable, beautiful addition to any garden.”

At the other end of the scale from the classic teak chair, Jo Alexander is also seeing an increase in demand for a much more contemporary material for furniture - concrete. “When we think of concrete, we tend to think of tower blocks and big, imposing urban infrastructure, but in recent years some forward-thinking furniture designers have been reinventing concrete as a highly attractive material for our gardens. Polished concrete has a very appealing shine to it and makes a great choice if you want something a little more unusual for our garden.

“The concrete garden chair options we are stocking this year also show how versatile concrete can be - from industrial-looking, cubist-inspired stools to beautifully smooth giant polished ‘pebbles’ that look like they have been picked straight out of a mountain stream.”

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ROOFTOP DEVELOPMENT UTILISED ON ENFIELD’S LYTCHET WAY ESTATE Enfield Council had a pressing need for additional homes for social rent, and with no suitable land available for development, they were inspired by the solution offered by Langley Structures Ltd. This was the innovative ‘Upwardly Living’ rooftop development concept, creating new additional dwellings above existing flat roof housing stock.

Enfield Council were able to utilise the single source design and supply chain offered by Langley for rooftop extensions, flat to pitched conversions and flat roofing.

The council’s Lytchet Way estate, which has a mix of three and four storey blocks, was selected and Langley undertook an in-depth feasibility study. This identified that three of these blocks were suitable for rooftop developments to create new homes on top of existing stock. The site is incredibly well positioned to support densification, having excellent transport links.

Philip Pank Partnership were commissioned by the London Borough of Enfield to provide multi disciplinary services on the project, comprising Contract Administration/Employer’s Agent, Clerk of Works and Quantity Surveying.

“We are delighted to have had the opportunity to provide these services to Enfield and to have gained invaluable experience in the procurement and delivery of the Rooftop Development concept,” commented Sophie Redding, Associate, Philip Pank Partnership.

The rooftop developments, in this case comprising single-storey extensions with light weight pitched roofs, were installed by a Langley Approved Contractor who also carried out extensive flat-to-pitch roof refurbishments on the twelve remaining blocks on the estate.

Enfield Council wanted to avoid decanting residents to temporary accommodation, as this would be a costly logistical operation as well as being disruptive to the community. These challenges were successfully overcome to ensure that the 25 new homes were considerately developed with residents in-situ throughout the entire project.

Enabling works included extending the existing stairwells and services to the new fourth floor level. Langley’s off-site prefabricated floor, wall and ceiling cassettes were lifted into position and assembled on site. They were inspected on a weekly basis by Langley Technical Managers and the contract administrators, to monitor and ensure the quality of workmanship.

The lightweight, pitched framing system was covered with Langley Roman strip tiles and had sun tubes installed to utilise natural light within windowless kitchens. Photovoltaic (PV) panels were mounted at roof level to provide electricity for communal services.

A robust fire protection strategy included internal works to extend fire breaks at all existing party walls within the roof void to the underside of the roof membrane level. New service risers for electricity and gas were constructed at each end elevation, then distributed via the new roof void to the new flats below.

“Rooftop development represented a cost-effective way of adding to our housing stock without the need to acquire new land, which is often in short supply.”

- Project Manager at Enfield Council This project supports the Government housing objectives regarding the efficient use of space to deliver new homes by building up rather than building out, using the space above existing buildings to create new homes.

Support for this approach was re-iterated by the Housing Secretary in February 2018. (source: Fixing Our Broken Housing Market White Paper, Department for Communities and Local Government).

To discover more information about Rooftop Developments, view Langley’s video case study.

The video demonstrates the benefits of Rooftop Development for social housing landlords looking to develop their portfolio. It also showcases the award-winning Lytchet Way Estate, featuring time-lapse footage of the entire project.

Visit: www.langleystructures.co.uk Or, to book a feasibility survey for your building estate, contact enquiries@langley.co.uk

BEFORE EXPERTS IN ROOFTOP CAPITALISATION

AFTER

Langley Structures Ltd is helping social housing providers to make the most of their buildings by transforming and redefining the roofscape by providing new dwellings on top of existing flat roofs using their ‘upwardly living’ approach.

Book your in-house CPD seminar today! www.langleystructures.co.uk

T: 01327 704778 F: 01327 704845 E: CPD@langley.co.uk

Langley’s expertise can help clients exploit the space above their buildings and help deal with the chronic shortage of both affordable housing and the lack of new homes.

There is no land to acquire and no long term planning consultation process to undertake, plus, the speed of build is considerably quicker compared to conventional construction methods. The Rooftop Development also allows dwellings below to continue as homes with residents remaining in-situ during the build.

Commercial Platform Lift for Waterside Court Waterside Court is a large office development located around seven miles from Manchester City Centre. With over 40,000 square feet of office space spread over two levels, they recently needed a platform lift to enable access from the ground floor to the first floor offices.

After an initial site visit, Invalifts recommended their ‘Commercial Platform Lift.’ This platform lift has been designed for schools, restaurants, offices and public buildings, offering a high quality of finish, including an anodized aluminium platform console, braille and tactile push button, along with an ergonomically designed aluminium or stainless steel handrail on the carriage.

This lift has some of the the lowest maintenance and operating costs on the market. The lift is fully Part M and Equality Act compliant and comes in a range of platform sizes to suit any requirement. With just a 50mm pit (or ramp) required, and no machine room, this lift can fit in just about anywhere.

The lift was a perfect fit for Waterside Court, and has enabled accessibility for staff and visitors to the offices.

To find out more about the Commercial Platform Lift or other lift products, you can give Invalifts a call on 0845 468 2543 and speak to one of their friendly experts.

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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

HOME-DESIGNER AND ARCHITECT

MAGAZINE

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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