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CONTENTS Featured Projects
Featured
Beautiful vanguard house makes use of Kebony wood to complement Portuguese landscape 10-11, 12
Latest News 04-05 Events & Awards News 08 Company News 14
DistrictHive, the architectural project born to change the rules of the game 24-25, 26
People On The Move 16 Schöck Ltd 18-19
BW has completed the fit-out on Canopius’ new office space at 22 Bishopsgate, London’s newest and second tallest skyscraper 32-33
Envirograf 34-35 Aluprof 38-39 Jacksons Fencing 40-41 Project News 42-43, 44
Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in Architect Projects magazine however, the publishers accept no responsibility for the claims or
The Fit Show 46-47
opinions made by advertisers, manufacturers or contributors. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, mechanical, electronic (including photocopying) or stored in any information retrieval system without the prior consent of the publisher.
Grand Design Live Show Preview 52
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KBB Show Preview 48, 50-51 Futurescape Spring Show Preview 55
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LATEST NEWS © Tim Ronalds Architect
PLANET SMART CITY LAUNCHES €60M CAPITAL RAISE TO ACCELERATE GROWTH UK-based affordable housing proptech pioneer also doubles revenues to €93m Planet Smart City, the London headquartered global leader in smart affordable housing, today announces that it has launched a €60m capital raise to accelerate the Group’s ambitious business plans. Since its establishment in 2015, Planet Smart City, which specialises in large-scale projects that create smart neighbourhoods and affordable homes - has raised more than €160 million, from 390 institutional and private investors. In 2021, the Group recorded revenues of approximately $105 million dollars (€93 million), doubling the result of 2020 which had been $52 million dollars. The €60m capital increase is aimed at accelerating the implementation of Planet’s ambitious business plan that includes the launch of approximately 54 smart projects over the next three years (a total of over 40,000 housing units). This will provide a platform to help establish Planet as a world leader in the affordable housing segment by 2030 with more than 45,000 homes sold each year. Planet’s projects are capable of revolutionising the way residents live in urban environments. Its success in Brazil where the first families are moving to its neighbourhoods – has created a unique proposition compared with the rest of the real estate market, particularly in the affordable market segment.
Architect Projects
Planet’s approach to community building is aligned with the highest environmental and social sustainability standards which can be measured through its proprietary digital platform, the Planet App. Because of this, a residents’ experience within their community is totally transformed: services are accessible through digital solutions which provides increased convenience, helps residents save money, and live more sustainably. The Planet App, which is provided to all residents for free has 70% adoption rate across its projects. The Group’s approach also completely transforms the classic real estate business model whereby revenues come exclusively from the sale of properties. Planet’s digital business unit generates revenues from the management of services offered to the community and data analytics. This also enables Planet continue to reinvest in its neighborhoods for the long-term.
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HOUSE OF ILLUSTRATION SECURES RESOLUTION TO GRANT PLANNING PERMISSION FOR REDEVELOPMENT OF HISTORIC NEW RIVER HEAD SITE House of Illustration has secured a resolution to grant planning permission from Islington Council for a £12m project to redevelop New River Head into the UK’s only public arts space dedicated to illustration. Encompassing galleries, a learning studio, public gardens, a shop and a café, the renamed Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration will be the national centre for illustration: a unique destination for art-lovers, illustrators, families, schools and colleges; and the catalyst for exhibitions and activities across the UK. It will also become a permanent home for the archive of the organisation’s founder, Sir Quentin Blake, with selections from his archive of more than 40,000 works on permanent display. New River Head in Islington takes its name from the reservoir at the head of the New River, the channel cut in 1604–13 to supply London with clean drinking water from springs in Hertfordshire – a civil engineering achievement vital to the development of the city. The historic site has been inaccessible to the public for the past 70 years and
includes the atmospheric remains of one of very few surviving windmills in London, as well as a spectacular 19th-century engine house. Tim Ronalds Architects has developed a sensitive scheme to repurpose the four 18th- and 19thcentury industrial buildings and half an acre of surrounding land as the new Centre. House of Illustration has already raised 38% of its £12m target. With planning permission now in place, the balance is set to be raised through individual donations, grants from trusts and foundations and a public fundraising campaign, enabling work to begin this year and the Centre to open at the end of 2023. Although House of Illustration’s former site at 2 Granary Square, King’s Cross is now closed, House of Illustration very much remains ‘open’ with a variety of exhibitions on tour and the continuation of its learning and participation programme with practicing illustrators, schools and community groups.
© Tim Ronalds Architect
© Justin Piperger
LATEST NEWS
HBV GROUP APPOINTS TRITON TO DELIVER SUPPORTED LIVING PROJECTS HBV Group, the specialist supported living developer, has appointed Triton Construction on two projects in Derbyshire valued at more than £5.3 million.
living apartments and a complex care facility for 10 residents in Bradford, West Yorkshire.
and associated external works for parking, landscaping, service installations and highways alterations.
Triton is delivering the full turnkey solution for both projects which include full fit out,
Triton expects to complete both projects by September 2022.
Triton will deliver a £2.5 million scheme in Swadlincote and a £2.8 million scheme in Ilkeston, which both form part of HBV Group’s growing pipeline of supported living developments across the UK. HBV Group collaborates with local authorities, registered providers, care providers and investors to deliver new-build accommodation. To date it has delivered more than 1,200 individual properties across 58 schemes in the UK. Last month, HBV Group announced that it had secured funding from AEW UK Real Return Fund to deliver these latest projects. The developer awarded the design and build contracts for both schemes to Triton Construction following the success of a previous partnership together in delivering a project of 16 self-contained, supported
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Architect Projects
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FEATURE
ESTABLISHING THE POST-PANDEMIC WORKPLACE: A STUDY OF ARUP’S 80 CHARLOTTE STREET By Rahul Patel, Director, Building Engineering, Arup Two years after the first UK lockdown, discussions on how and where we live and work show no signs of slowing down. With question marks over the use of office space and the surrounding cities, the AEC industry remains focused on reimagining how workplaces are used going forward. Hybrid working styles appear to be the most suitable option for many, with recent research highlighting that the £37 billion contributed
to the economy annually through flexible working could double, if more companies introduce more hybrid working options. Simultaneously, the business world is also juggling the urgent need to address the escalating climate crisis – recently identified as the single biggest perceived global risk. Balancing the scales The AEC industry has a very specific role to play both in enabling a tangible response
to climate change, and in addressing the changing way we work. As the world looks to a post-pandemic future, the industry must encourage a return to cities and lead by example, to re-engage with and inspire once more those living and working in urban areas – to help them recover, transform and, ultimately, thrive. For Arup, this meant re-establishing its presence in London; transforming the former Saatchi building and moving into its office space at 80 Charlotte Street, as the firm continues to address contemporary challenges via its multi-disciplinary approach. The first major hybrid working office to be completed post-pandemic, the building has integrated, efficient design at its core. It will support decarbonisation over time, through improved energy performance, and ensure hybrid working continues to benefit, as opposed to hinder, employees.
Architect Projects
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As part of Arup’s commitment to reaching net zero across global operations by 2030, sustainability is at the heart of 80 Charlotte Street’s design and operations – visible through the consideration of necessary functionality today and potential future demands.
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FEATURE
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Through focusing on collaboration and innovation, the industry has a once in a generation opportunity to deliver projects fit for now, and for the future.
Establishing a low carbon future As part of Arup’s commitment to reaching net zero across global operations by 2030, sustainability is at the heart of 80 Charlotte Street’s design and operations – visible through the consideration of necessary functionality today and potential future demands. The building has retained and reused part of the existing facades, reducing the amount of waste produced, and was designed as all-electric – a key decision made back in 2009, ahead of time. In fact, electricity on both the landlord and tenant sides will be purchased from ringfenced renewable sources, and 80m² of solar thermal panels will pre-heat domestic water. The reception and atria are naturally ventilated, pulling in outside air, and a highly integrated fresh air strategy utilises the atrium to distribute fresh air to floors. Furthermore, future thinking back in 2009 on electric vehicle usage (and the subsequent cleaner air and lower acoustics) influenced its intelligent ‘mixed mode’ ventilation operation. The relationship, for example, between the windows and air conditioning can be set so that whenever the building’s windows are opened the air conditioning automatically switches off at the perimeter to reduce operational energy. It is also home to one of the largest heat pump projects in London, converting recycled waste to heat via polyvalent pumps, which return up to 20% of otherwise rejected heat to the building. Designing for improved performance To further 80 Charlotte Street’s credentials, optimising energy use wherever possible was a key focus in the design period. With this in mind, the building features a rational façade with glass included to maximise daylight and minimise solar gain. Energy efficient measures were considered throughout the build, which boasts one of leanest floor sandwiches in the world – 600mm leaner than a typical commercial building. This is a result of hyper-integrated architecture and engineering design, which has enabled an additional 40,000sq ft, maximising the massing and densification potential, enabling an additional 400 people to occupy the site.
warrant more environmentally minded decisions in design, it needs to consider how to most effectively serve the people using the building. As the first major hybrid working office to be completed postpandemic, the reimagining of 80 Charlotte Street itself required a new way of working amidst lockdowns and restrictions; extensive coordination to enable teams working remotely to witness commissioning and carry out site observations.
Coupled with the need to address climate change, the AEC industry is at the apex in terms of the world’s response. While this comes with great responsibility, it also presents many exciting opportunities, as showcased by 80 Charlotte Street. Through focusing on collaboration and innovation, the industry has a once in a generation opportunity to deliver projects fit for now, and for the future.
This in turn gave valuable, qualitative insights into the best ways of working in a hybrid world, further informing the design. The building boasts a variety of amenities, including a roof terrace and ‘pocket park’ for wellbeing breaks and quiet contemplation, and the support of SMART activity based working models. Elsewhere, tenants benefit from the high levels of natural light flowing through the three atriums, while strategically visible stairs in the reception area help to promote active movement throughout the working day. Next steps The pandemic has inherently changed the formula of our home and working lives. Images: © Paul Carstairs/Arup
Architect Projects
In addition, it was prefabricated almost entirely off site, including precast concrete facade and structural elements. For example, the precast planks offer a high quality architectural finish at the soffits, and pipework risers were manufactured off-site to allow for an efficient and clean installation – one with on-site welding dramatically reduced. Zeroing in on workplace wellbeing But a sustainable future does not only
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EVENTS & AWARDS NEWS
REVITALISED BANKING HALL NAMED FINALIST FOR THREE DESIGN AWARDS One of Nottingham’s most recently refurbished spaces is a finalist for three awards at this year’s British Council for Offices (BCO) Midlands and Central England Awards. Architecture and interior design firm CPMG Architects oversaw the internal refit of the Grade II listed
property in St. Peter’s Gate, Nottingham, which started life in the 1870s as the headquarters of the British Waterways Company. The building later became the Standard Chartered Bank, followed by a life as several bars before sitting vacant for several years before CPMG took it on. Now serving as a flexible office workspace for CPMG’s award-winning team, which moved into the space in the summer of 2021, the building has a new lease of life and is set to welcome the award judges in February. The new interior space has a single studio environment complete with a new mezzanine level, which has been created within the building’s double-height space. Meanwhile, the former bank vaults are now home to meeting spaces and a break-out zone. The ground floor entrance space incorporates a co-working zone with coffee bar and a central flexible space for the team’s social events. The office space has been listed as a finalist in three categories: Refurbished/Recycled Workplace, Projects up to 1,500 square metres, and Fit Out of Workplace. The British Council for Offices Midlands and Central England Awards will take place at the ICC in Birmingham on 20 May.
Alongside a new operations and flexible working policy introduced to mitigate the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, the practice appointed a designated ‘people champion’ to lead its focus on personal and professional development.
PEOPLE ARCHITECTURE WINS THE DAY AS GT3 PICKS UP MAJOR AWARD
Architect Projects
Leading architecture practice GT3 Architects has seen its focus on team development recognised with a prestigious national award. The firm – which has studios in Nottingham and Newcastle – has received the ‘People Development’ award at Constructing Excellence’s national
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ceremony, beating nominees from across the UK. The award recognises organisations that value their workforce and ensure they maximise their team’s contribution to the business, something which GT3 Architects has nurtured through its ‘People Architecture’ approach.
The award period also saw the firm secure new projects and R&D work – including the UK’s first wet and dry Passivhaus leisure facility in Staines-upon-Thames, Surrey – and grow its staff base by 10%.
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PROJECT
BEAUTIFUL VANGUARD HOUSE MAKES USE OF Kebony WOOD TO COMPLEMENT PORTUGUESE LANDSCAPE Architect Gonçalo Bonniz utilises Kebony Clear for stunning new-build in Alentejo, Portugal Kebony, a global leader in the production of sustainable wood, is one of the defining features of the FdP house, remotely located in Alto Alentejo, Portugal and designed by the native architect Gonçalo Bonniz. With a vanguard design and clean, sleek lines, the house is fully integrated into Alentejo’s landscape, complementing the morphology of the land and its surroundings. This was achieved by using materials that blend with the native colours, in a perfect combination of concrete and Kebony Clear wood.
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“One of the main goals was having a house that dominates the landscape, with this project strongly inspired by its location. The morphology of the land, the solar orientation and stunning views all acted as guiding elements to the design. The preserved trees helped to carve the shape of the house and made it more integrated, and the natural colours were essential to the development of this project”, explains Gonçalo Bonniz. This
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PROJECT
Images: Woodtarget Architect: Gonçalo Bonniz
chromatic integration “was a major factor in causing the natural blending of the house into this rural landscape, marked by the existence of multicoloured slate, grey and brown, concrete with grey pigment and Kebony Clear wood being used to make this chromatic connection.”
Architect Projects
Low-maintenance and sustainably-sourced, Kebony Clear has been applied to the façade, requiring no further surface treatment or maintenance. The wood is defined by a dark brown colour that, over time, will acquire a beautiful silver-grey patina when exposed to the elements, allowing it to blend together with the reinforced concrete used in the building. The colouring plays well with the other materials, which was just one of the reasons for choosing Kebony for the exteriors of this particular house. Its durability and stability are also noteworthy and especially important in an area of harsh climate, in addition to the controlled ageing and the fact that maintenance operations are unnecessary. Continued >>>
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All construction work of Kebony Clear was carried out by Matriz - Sociedade de Construções, Lda. In terms of the application of the wood, it is easy to handle and work with, resistant in nature, and soft to the touch, all the while producing a superior quality finish without adding any additional products. “This versatile application of Kebony on façades, decks and furniture reflects the
fact that it is a material with high durability and stability, but also that it is aesthetically very appealing, and sustainable. Without a doubt, the FdP house is already a reference for Kebony’s portfolio around the world,” comments Wood Engineer Mário Neves, Kebony’s representative in Portugal. Kebony, which integrates the Clear range, is a sustainable and high-quality wood, which is FSC® certified. It stands out due to its appealing appearance, hardness, stability and resistance, as well as its ease of maintenance, making it a perfect material for projects such as the Alentejo home.
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One of the main goals was having a house that dominates the landscape, with this project strongly inspired by its location. The morphology of the land, the solar orientation and stunning views all acted as guiding elements to the design.
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Kebony Clear wood also has a strong presence in the interiors of the FdP house. In addition to its application on the exterior façade and deck, Kebony Clear was also chosen for a large part of the furniture in the house, including the kitchen area, as well as for the wardrobes and mobility areas, with doors of more than 3 meters tall. These complementary features produce a house of harmony that coexists with its stunning, natural, and remote location.
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COMPANY NEWS
MOORES FURNITURE GROUP INSPIRE THE NEXT GENERATION WITH A NUMBER OF APPRENTICESHIPS Leading British kitchen manufacturer, Moores, have been upskilling and inspiring the next generation of designers, manufacturers, and marketeers through offering a variety of apprenticeship schemes. To coincide with National Apprenticeship Week , the company have been promoting their schemes as part of their long-term plans to bring new talent into the kbb industry and inspire a new wave of young professionals who are eager to be at the forefront of modern kitchen manufacturing. Alongside their policy for equal opportunities, Moores believe apprenticeships are essential to personal growth and career development, enabling those with passion and drive to get hands on experience within the competitive job market. The company currently has three apprentices working within various areas of the business.
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT PRACTICE WINS A CLUTCH OF PROJECTS Chester based specialist landscape architect practice Land Studio has won four new projects. Land Studio has been selected by the National Trust to design a scheme to improve the visitor experience at Fell Foot Park in the Lake District. Formerly the grounds of a Victorian country house, Fell Foot is situated at the southern tip of Lake Windermere. Land Studio’s work will include the design of a more open and accessible series of paths through the park and to the visitor hub at the boathouses on the shores of the lake. Design work is expected to be completed by the Spring with construction on site taking place later in 2022. The company has also won work with a new apartment scheme planned for Bedminster in Bristol.
MARKET LEADING PAVING BRAND GEO-FIX® ONLY AVAILABLE FROM BOND IT From 15th February we are pleased to announce that Bond It have acquired the sole distribution rights for the market leading Geo-Fix® All Weather and Geo-Fix® Original Paving Jointing Compounds. When Geo-Fix Original was first brought to market 25 years ago, the paving industry was a completely different landscape compared to today. With traditional cementitious jointing products causing huge problems for Local Authorities and contractors, it soon became clear that an alternative solution was required. After listening to the needs of the paving industry, Geo-Fix® developed a new technology using sand polymers to create GeoFix® Original brush-in jointing compound – a truly original product that revolutionised traditional jointing methods. In 2013, the range was enhanced to include Geo-Fix® All Weather jointing compound, a superior brush-in sand that can be used in all weathers, and now offer a selection of beautiful coloured sands to complement all designs and tastes.
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Geo-Fix® is a ready mixed jointing that is simply brushed and compacted in to joints with minimal effort. Available in 2 versions, Original in 20kg buckets in Buff and Grey and All Weather in 14kg buckets in Stone, Mid Grey, Anthracite, Graphite and Slate Grey. Bond It are a British manufacturer with 20 years’ experience manufacturing and supplying the construction, building and DIY markets. All Geo-Fix® products will all be available through Bond It through an authorised network of approved merchants and stockists throughout the UK and Ireland.
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Land Studio is working alongside ECE Westworks Architects and developer Dandara on detailed designs of the public realm and private courtyard spaces for 295 homes due to be built at Little Paradise.
OXFORD ARCHITECT SELECTS OGL TO SAFEGUARD BUSINESS GROWTH WITH INFRASTRUCTURE OVERHAUL Oxford architecture practice Gray, Baynes & Shew has overhauled its IT infrastructure with a suite of technologies from OGL, to boost business productivity and protect its business while maintaining its position as an award-winning architectural partner. Based at St Thomas House on Becket Street in Oxford, Gray, Baynes & Shew (“GBS”) took advantage of a free network appraisal which uncovered some concerning weaknesses and cyber threats. The firm works across a range of business sectors including education and healthcare to create buildings for learning, healing, resting, playing or for worshiping. It is on Oxford University’s Capital Projects Framework and has completed projects at a number of colleges including Corpus Christi and Lady Margaret Hall. Poor IT is the last thing any business wants, but it’s especially true of architects that use high-intensity CAD software (computer aided design) for their design work, which demands a powerful, well-managed and well-maintained infrastructure.
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PEOPLE ON THE MOVE
HLM ARCHITECTS APPOINTS FIRST ASSOCIATE HERITAGE ARCHITECT HLM Architects has announced the appointment of Matthew Morrish as the practice’s first heritage architect. Having previously worked on the Regency-era Brighton Dome and many Georgian, Victorian and Edwardianera buildings, Matthew brings over 20 years’ experience of working with new and historic buildings in sensitive contexts. As a RIBA Conservation accredited architect, Matthew will lead
consultant and client project teams through the RIBA work stages using his detailed knowledge of the design and construction stages to provide advice and support to clients on the careful repair and re-use of existing structures. Matthew Morrish added: “I’m excited to be joining HLM at what is both a pivotal point for the practice and the construction industry. “With an increasing amount of pressure on creating a net-zero built environment, the adaptative re-use and repair of existing buildings within sensitive and historic architectural settings is becoming increasingly important. I look forward to working with clients to deliver their visions for projects within a practice that is committed to creating a more sustainable built environment.”
KEYLITE APPOINTS EXPERIENCED MARKETING MANAGER TO SUPPORT CUSTOMERS AND STRENGTHEN BRAND PRESENCE The UK and Europe’s fastest-growing roof window brand, Keylite Roof Windows (Keylite), has appointed Orlagh Bibby as its new Marketing Manager to help increase brand awareness for Keylite and that of its merchants and key customers. Following Keylite’s success in 2021, which saw marketing deliver a nationwide charity initiative, a hat-trick of award wins including Supplier of the Year, a merchant training campaign, and over fourteen million opportunities to see the Keylite name in the press, the brand is expanding, ready for another jam-packed year. Orlagh is a Chartered Marketer with over thirteen years of experience in marketing, primarily within engineering, construction, and logistic sectors, where she discovered her passion for brand marketing.
DURKAN APPOINTS NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR OF CONSTRUCTION Durkan has appointed Tim Carpenter as its new Managing Director of Construction – marking the start of a new chapter for the leading independent development and construction company. Architect Projects
Tim moves from his position as Group New Business Director and succeeds Jim Briggs, who is retiring after 44 years with Durkan, including more than eight years as Managing Director.
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Tim has previously held a number of Managing Director positions with other leading contractors over more than 25 years. The new appointment comes as Durkan continues to grow a strong project pipeline with public sector partners to deliver much needed new affordable housing, as well as continuing the group’s expansion within London and the South East. Tim Carpenter said: “The consistently high quality of our work and the trust our partners place in us means we’re perfectly placed to fulfil our mission of being one of the leading customerfocused constructors of quality homes and sustainable communities in London and the South East. I’m looking forward to helping us deliver on that commitment.”
Orlagh will be responsible for the management of Keylite’s brand campaigns, e-commerce platforms, events, and marketing assets, including ‘Keylite Mission 2’ – which encourages merchants to take part in online training sessions to develop their product knowledge and help drive revenue.
DOORS, WINDOWS & FITTINGS
BUILDING REGULATION CHANGES SEE FOCUS ON SEALANT TAPES FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCES New building regulations coming into force this year will require windows to be made even more airtight, says Andy Swift, sales and operations manager for ISO-Chemie. Changes to Part L of the Building Regulations which come into effect from June 2022, will see the provision for stricter standards and compliance procedures around energy and ventilation performance, contributing towards a roadmap to a net zero carbon future and new homes designed and built in-line with stricter carbon emissions targets. Specifically, to ensure continuity of the air barrier, window and door units will have to connect to the primary air barrier and the frames will need to be taped to surrounding structural openings using air sealing tape.
Andrew Swift
Air tightness improvements In this respect, the changes to Part L will have to be seen as a step in the right direction for the new build fenestration sector. It will see requirements for improvements in air tightness, forcing them from 10 air changes per hour down to 8 air changes per hour and also U value on windows shifting from 1.6 to 1.2wm2 k/H, which will require more energy efficient sealant solutions such as thermal foam tapes. The requirement also now states that the frame should be linked back to the wall with an air-tight tape. Technical innovation Building regulation changes will have an unequivocal impact as energy ratings for buildings and property become stricter, and these include energy and ventilation standards for residential and non-domestic buildings that are far better for the environment and fit for the future - higher air and thermal standards for house construction has to be a priority. Technical innovation through sealing technologies is one way that those responsible for fenestration specification
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can do more to support greater energy efficiency and mee the requirements of Part L. Indeed, as sustainability continues to be of paramount concern in the development of low carbon and eco-friendly building projects, we will see technologies such as energy foam tapes, which can add real value during the initial and post construction phases, only grow in importance as the most effective solutions for sealing window and door frame expansion joints and gaps in houses. Today, there are effective products out there to ensure that airtightness and thermal efficiency within buildings should never be overlooked or ignored - it’s simply a matter of designing in these products.
More at https://www.iso-chemie.eu/ en-GB/home/
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NEW SCHÖCK THERMALLY INSULATING WALL CONNECTION IN A CLASS OF ITS OWN Minimising linear thermal bridges at the wall connection to the floor, or floor slab, has been a perennial problem with reinforced concrete construction. However, a dedicated new solution – the Sconnex type W – has now been introduced by Schöck. It is a product that offers outstanding insulation performance, combined with an exceptional load-bearing capacity.
A current high-profile project involving the new Schöck thermally insulating wall connection is Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School, at Elstree in Hertfordshire. The school was founded in 1690 by a Royal Charter granted to the Worshipful Company of Haberdashers and over the years has been located at various sites around London. In the late 1950s Aldenham House and sixty
one acres of land were purchased from the BBC to develop the current Elstree school location, which was opened in 1961 by the Lord Mayor of London. Haberdashers’ Aske’s is recognised as being one of the leading independent boys’ schools in the country and sets exemplary standards, not just in educational terms, but in its facilities as well. As demonstrated by the new extension to the Preparatory School.
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A two-storey contemporary extension
Image courtesy of cube_design
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This is a standalone building within the campus and Hampshire based cube_design architects were commissioned to produce a concept design for three additional classrooms, along with the relocation of changing facilities and minor alterations to the administration, staff and visitor entrance. Jane Lock-Smith, the founder of cube_design and a member of the CABE Design Review Panel and RIBA Client Design Advisor within the Building Schools for the Future programme, takes up the story: “The design is respectful to the style of the existing building, but offers a contemporary twist through the use of full height glazing and charred timber cladding. The use of a colonnade minimises the buildings footprint whilst enabling a sense of arrival that the existing building is lacking. In our detailing we had to take into account that around 40% of all thermal bridges in a building are caused by walls and supports, which in turn are responsible for about 10% of heating energy losses. The Schöck solution offers an application-friendly, high-quality solution that contributes to a permanently sustainable building concept”.
The Sconnex type W product
A graphic of the Sconnex type W in position
As the market leaders in the development of Isokorb structural thermal breaks for balconies and other cantilever constructions, Schöck has now used this expertise to produce a thermally insulating wall connection that combines outstanding insulation performance with dependable load-bearing capacity.
The construction of the Preparatory School extension at Haberdashers’ is of reinforced concrete and traditionally wall connections to the floor, or floor slab, have been a major source of linear thermal bridges. The result being not just serious energy loss, but also the high risk of condensation. This can easily lead to mould growth, resulting in possible
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A serious source of linear thermal bridges
Image courtesy of cube_design
structural damage and worse, posing a health risk to the occupants. As the market leaders in the development of Isokorb structural thermal breaks for balconies and other cantilever constructions, Schöck has now used this expertise to produce a thermally insulating wall connection that combines outstanding insulation performance with dependable load-bearing capacity. Sconnex is a unique solution This new thermally insulating connection for reinforced concrete walls is unique in its ability to help meet various demanding criteria. Sconnex type W minimises the thermal bridge between the exterior wall insulation and the insulation above the floor slab, increasing the energy efficiency of the entire building. Thermal losses are greatly reduced and the surface temperature in the room increases to considerably more than the critical dew point temperature. Heating costs are lower, a pleasant room climate is created and the PSI of the connected reinforced concrete wall is reduced by up to 90 percent. The outstanding insulation performance is combined with an excellent load bearing capacity, which transmits very high pressure, tensile and shear forces, in the longitudinal and transverse direction. This is made possible by the use of a pressure buffer consisting of ultra-high performance fibre reinforced concrete. A material which achieves compressive strength levels in excess of 175 N/mm2, but with extremely good flexural strength as well. A further important benefit is the generally significant cost reduction involved when compared to installing insulation beneath the floor slab.
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For further information on the new Sconnex type W product; contact Schöck on 01865 290 890; or download the brochure at www.schoeck.com
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FEATURE
DISPLAYNOTE LAUNCHER FACILITATES HYBRID WORKING AT ARCHITECTURAL ENGINEERING COMPANY Launcher, from leading collaborative technology company DisplayNote, has been implemented by Kluber Architects + Engineers at their new HQ building in Chicago, Illinois. The 30-strong team of architects and engineers uses Launcher to facilitate hybrid working and remote communication for client projects that range across public, education, health services, and private sector applications. Kluber Architects’ relocation prompted a simultaneous upgrade to all internal meeting spaces which presented an opportunity to meet the needs of an increasingly hybrid workforce and to provide tools to facilitate an increase in remote meetings. With a heavy reliance on video conferencing for their daily communications it was essential to have a simple, reliable way for staff to connect to calls with clients and colleagues. “We have weekly meetings for the different departments, so we rely on a variety of video-conferencing tools as some people are in the
office while others are at home,” Joel Murphy, Project Technologist at Kluber Architects + Engineers. “We wanted a solution that would get the most out of their meeting spaces without the need to purchase additional hardware. We trialled Launcher, and it was exactly what we wanted: to walk into the space to start meetings and schedule meetings. It’s really simple to just launch the meeting; touch the button, and the call starts. My teams love the simplicity of using Launcher. They love being able to walk into a room and touch to start their meetings. Launcher definitely lives up to our expectations.” Launcher facilitates smooth integration between MS Outlook and Teams and adds the convenience of staff not having to bring their own laptops into meetings. Launcher has also led to a change in how the teams collaborate. Smaller, informal meetings are starting to happen at the big screens rather than around a desk, as the teams benefit from being able to view documents like blueprints on the big screen.
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AP322042- DisplayNote- HP.indd 1
24/02/2022 14:48:58
NEW INTERPON FUTURA COLLECTION MARRIES BEAUTY, SCIENCE AND SUSTAINABILITY AkzoNobel Powder Coatings has launched its much-anticipated Interpon Futura Collection for 2022-2025, revealing three brand new, on-trend color palettes – Merging World, Healing Nature and Soft Abstraction – helping designers connect to the latest developments in the built environment.
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The new collection is the result of rigorous testing and scientific research by AkzoNobel’s trend and color specialists across multiple industries, and particularly those involved in the building and construction sector. It is also the result of more than two decades of evolution, during which time the collections have inspired innovative designs all over the world. Launched with the promise to ‘Futura your world’, the new range delivers a superdurable performance with a warranty up to 25-years, enabling architectural creations to stand the test of time. With a building’s legacy determined by its ability to withstand its surroundings, the durability provided by Interpon powder coatings reflects the brand’s proven commitment to sustainability and the environment.
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As a powder coating, the collection uses no solvent emissions or volatile organic compounds and supports AkzoNobel’s broader sustainability programme: People. Planet. Paint. This has seen the company commit to eliminating carbon emissions by 50% in the value chain and using 100% renewable energy by 2030 as it looks to lead a revolution in sustainability. Interpon’s architectural range was also the first range of powder coatings to achieve an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD). Bob Dirks, Global Segment Manager Architectural, AkzoNobel Powder Coatings says the Interpon Futura Collection has been created with the future in mind: “Our new collection provides architects with world class colors that enable them to bring their imagination to life. It also provides a sustainable choice in powder coatings that both protects buildings and lowers the environmental footprint compared to other coating solutions. “The range demonstrates Interpon’s commitment to delivering the highest quality colors, textures and finishes to enable architects to Futura their world and ours. That’s why we are constantly innovating, while collaborating with our
Global Aesthetic Center to use deep insight and scientific research to predict future trends and ensure you’re always one step ahead.” The Interpon D Futura Collection is now available from stock to customers in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and will be launched in North America and South East Asia later this year. www.architectural.interpon.com/en/futura
FEATURE
Increasing numbers of climate emergencies have been declared in recent years, further increasing attention upon the need to mitigate the environmental impact of development. Whilst COP26 has renewed public support for measures to curb the climate crisis, legislation and planning policies which underpin such measures have been evolving since the early 2000s. James Cook, head of Planning at Blacks Solicitors, discusses the legislative and planning policy background and how recent changes are going to affect development in the coming years. UK Climate Change Targets Although The Climate Change Act 2008 originally committed the UK to a target of an 80% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 compared to 1990 levels, in 2019 the target was amended to reduce the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions to “net zero” by 2050 with interim targets set through five-yearly carbon budgets. In October 2021 the Government published its “Net Zero Strategy: Build Back Greener” ahead of COP26, to outline how the UK will achieve net zero by 2050.
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Although The Climate Change Act 2008 originally committed the UK to a target of an 80% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 compared to 1990 levels, in 2019 the target was amended to reduce the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions to “net zero” by 2050 with interim targets set through five-yearly carbon budgets.
Local plans should take a proactive approach to mitigating and adapting to climate change, including providing a positive strategy to increase the use and supply of renewable and low carbon energy and heat.
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PLANNING FOR A GREENER FUTURE
Planning & Climate Change Planning authorities are under a statutory duty to ensure that, when taken as a whole, their local development plan documents include policies designed to ensure that the development and use of land contributes to the mitigation of, and adaptation to, climate change. The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) also underlines the importance of mitigating and adapting to climate change as a function of sustainable development , emphasising that the planning system should help to shape places in ways that contribute to radical reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Local plans should take a proactive approach to mitigating and adapting to climate change, including providing a positive strategy to increase the use and supply of renewable and low carbon energy and heat. Additionally, new developments should be built in ways that both reduce vulnerability to the impacts of climate change and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions Avoiding and Mitigating Flood Risk Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) are designed to imitate natural drainage to reduce surface water flooding and promote water harvesting. In flood risk areas, developments may also be designed in a way to build resilience to future risks, including those arising from climate change (for example through raising finished floor levels and building in flood defences). Biodiversity Net Gain Although biodiversity net gain (BNG) is already a feature of national and local planning policy, the recently enacted Environment Act 2021 will require all developments to deliver a BNG as a condition of planning permissions granted in England once in effect. BNG may be delivered on or off site or via the purchase of “biodiversity credits” to mitigate any shortfall. The importance of BNG to planning will therefore only increase with the advent of the Environment Act 2021. We are likely to see more and more multifaceted and innovative approaches to achieving BNG through habitat creation and enhancement solutions which offer a combined contribution towards other objectives of sustainable development, including the mitigation of the effects of climate change. Renewable energy and energy efficiency The Planning and Energy Act 2008 allows planning authorities in England to require a reasonable proportion of energy used in a development to come from renewable and low carbon sources. Increasing in-built renewable energy measures such as solar panels can reduce the volume of electricity from unsustainable sources used in a development, and when combined with passive measures like enhanced energy efficiency, can significantly reduce environmental impacts.
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In December 2021 the Government announced amendments to building regulations which aim to reduce carbon emissions from new build homes by around 30% compared to current standards, a prelude to the Future Homes and Buildings Standard which is planned to deliver net zero ready homes from 2025. For more information, please visit www.lawblacks.com.
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25/02/2022 10:47:09
DistrictHive, THE ARCHITECTURAL PROJECT BORN TO CHANGE THE RULES OF THE GAME This capsule hotel (podtel) offers a new concept of experiential luxury tourism, pushing boundaries through architecture • An international team of architects, designers and engineers have collaborated in its execution • The first DistrictHive module is located in the desert of Gorafe (Granada) and can be rented through its website, Booking and Airbnb. Architecture as a way to transformation; as a tool to change pre-established standards and to seek a constant and increasingly intelligent improvement in the way in which we interact with our environment. This is the key and the true commitment of the DistrictHive® project (www.districthive.com) from its purely architectural and constructive approach. Something that, at first glance, may sound simple but, as its creators confess, is enormously complex at all levels.
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“Challenges are our thing, we love to face the impossible and make a difference by making what nobody thinks is feasible,” says Priyesh Patel, CEO of the Portugalbased company Districthive LDA, promoter and creator of the first 100% autonomous and self-sufficient podtel (capsule hotel), which has already conquered the world from its location in the desert of Gorafe (Granada). “And undertaking a project of this magnitude and with this basis entails,” he continues, “an enormous responsibility. Especially when what you are looking for is to completely change the concept of luxury tourism that we had until now and put the real focus on the enjoyment of the environment, the unique, wild and beautiful landscape that nature offers us, but respecting it to the maximum, connecting with it.” “We have achieved this through two of the most powerful tools there are: architecture and technology. So we have sought out and involved here the best professionals in their field.”
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PROJECT TECHNICAL DATA: Project: DistrictHive Gorafe - Granada Year of completion: 2021 Constructed area: 35m² IP, Lead, Design, Software and Technical Engineering: DistrictHive, PT Construction, Site, Licensing and Technical Integrations: Moho Architects, ES Interior Architecture: Novono, DE Software, APP and Full Stack Engineering: Infowijs, NL Investors: Prometheus International, PT 3D & Rendering: Prometheus International, MU Brand Schema: IWantDesign, UK Photos: Dani Guindo© for DistrictHive©
DistrictHive is, therefore, a multidisciplinary, multifaceted project, born out of the cooperation and work between international teams, led by the Spanish firm MOHO Arquitectos. Carlos Abadía, founding partner of the studio and architect in charge of the project, explains that DistrictHive has been designed as a landscape and energy capturing device. “It is a capsule that draws from the surrounding environment, nature and climate. It is a living space focused on sustainable tourism that puts us in front of nature, helping us to contemplate the beauty and magic of climatic events.” Industrialized and design construction The podtel is a fully industrialized construction that is offered finished, transported to the site and in a few hours is ready to be used. It does not touch the ground on which it sits, has no foundations and does not require any type of piping, plumbing or sanitation. The support system developed has 6 legs
that, like a spaceship landed on Mars, rest on the ground. At ground level, the building is a small module of 35m² divided into several spaces: a bathroom, a kitchen-livingdining room, a bedroom (a double bed and a hidden double bed), multifunctional modular closets and shelves, and a small and necessary installation room where all the technical equipment is kept. The podtel also has an open terrace for stargazing. In addition, all the furniture, storage spaces, walls and finishes, have been made with maximum detail and care so that the final result was design, in the pursue of an intentional image of luxury and warmth. The interior design has been carefully designed by the German studio Novono. The entire DistrictHive construction process was carried out in the workshop using dry construction solutions, for which it was extremely important to
detail each of the components that make up the project with millimetric precision. “This has been the biggest challenge for us. Normally architecture allows for certain tolerances, but in this type of construction there can be no deviations,” explains Abadía, who goes on to say that “a project as small as this one involves great complexities that must be solved without losing sight of the quality of the projected design. This way of working is a little different from the professional practice carried out in our office and when the rules of the game change, small resistances appear, but the key, as always, is to adapt and enjoy the way”. And he highlights, on the other hand, one of the great advantages of this type of industrialized buildings and that is that “they have they can be replicated. Once you have made the first one and have detected possible points of improvement, you have a product to enter the market with much shorter execution times and an optimization of all the construction processes”. Continued >>>
PROJECT And it is precisely because of this that the Gorafe podtel is intended to be the first of many others that will continue to be installed in different remote and beautiful places on the planet to form what Priyesh Patel has already called the “Podtel Colony”. “This is an innovative global project that has only just begun and also offers the possibility of being replicated to be sold to private developers, hotels or other types of investors,” adds the CEO of the project. Sustainability and self-sufficiency Sustainability and self-sufficiency. Two of the other premises listed in the needs program of this avant-garde project, and also achieved. DistrictHive has become the first 100% self-sufficient and sustainable module that values nature by accessing it without leaving a trace. The impact on the territory is zero at an environmental level since no resources of the site are consumed. Once removed, the location would remain in the same state as it was before. This eco-hotel is capable of generating its own water from ambient humidity and air, its own electricity from solar energy, has its own sewage management by transforming waste into ashes, and gray water is filtered through two filtering processes so that the water serves as irrigation water. The total autonomy of the module makes common and complementary services unnecessary, thus optimizing resources and guaranteeing a reduction in the carbon footprint.
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And all this is possible, as Abadía comments, “thanks to the technological contribution, which allows us to do it completely offgrid. But, in addition, the use of high-performance materials has been focused on generating the most sustainable and comfortable construction possible, guaranteeing continuous insulation, insulating glass, ventilated facades... The technical requirements to
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include all the technological devices and material thicknesses in such small spaces, where every centimeter counts, imply a very precise work. So much so that, during the process, we thought a lot about the process followed to develop vehicles”. Likewise, the architect also highlights the harmonious interaction of all the international teams (designers, interior designers and engineers) that have collaborated and worked to make DistrictHive see the light of day after years of work. “We have formed a great team of professionals from Portugal, Amsterdam, Germany, the UK and Spain and we have all been involved in the development of the project down to the smallest detail. During the process we have been solving all the incidences together, generating a lot of collective and specific knowledge. This has been the key to incorporate the different disciplines and competencies to the development”. And he ends by saying how much MOHO
Architects has gained during the process. “Making DistrcitHive has taught us new ways of working, managing,thinking and solving. We have learned how from small things we can change the rules of the game, how we can act in a very positive way in the natural environment and generate synergies; how from architecture we can improve and help in the search for new models that guarantee an intelligent use of the surrounding environments and natural resources. We are at a key moment in which future developments have to ask themselves many of the questions that we have asked ourselves in this project to be able to respond with a committed architecture, with conscience, that somehow tries to modestly imitate nature while taking advantage of everything it gives us”. “Creating a self-sufficient, sustainable and transportable project that is also a good teaching resource has been a precious adventure,” he concludes.
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HEATING, VENTILATION & INSULATION NEWS
THERMIFY STRENGTHENS SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM: NICKY SINGH APPOINTED CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER Thermify Cloud, the company that has designed a revolutionary and affordable low-carbon heating system that can replace gas boilers in people’s homes and help reduce fuel poverty, has appointed Nicky Singh as Chief Commercial Officer. Nicky Singh has over 20 years of experience within the IT industry and has advised global companies on the adoption of technology for major change programmes. He has run businesses for various companies including Nokia Europe and Microsoft UK, co-founded a data privacy company and is an active angel investor in the domains of artificial intelligence and differential privacy. Nicky’s remit as CCO is to drive the sales and marketing of Thermify’s HeatHub heating system which are to be assembled at its new facility at Pencoed, near Bridgend in south Wales. Thermify’s HeatHub system is a “distributed data centre” and a heating system in a single unit, installed in a householder’s home. It uses the wasted heat from a bank of computers in the HeatHub, that is deployed in the householder’s home, to provide hot water and heat for the very same home. The electricity that is used to power the computers is used twice and is paid for by Thermify. At the same time, it will generate new revenue from cloud computing. By using energy twice, HeatHub offers customers an affordable heating system and, if deployed widely, will help reduce the levels of fuel poverty that exist in the UK. Travis Theune, Thermify’s Chief Executive said: “Nicky’s extensive experience in the IT and data security sectors will be invaluable as we develop and market our HeatHub system. “The commercial interest in our HeatHub system, given the need for low-carbon and low-cost heating systems, is strong and we expect to announce our first sales within the coming weeks.” Nicky Singh said: “Globally, enterprises are seeking to accelerate a drive to net zero and become socially responsible. CEOs are demanding their directors act or be ejected.
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“Thermify helps enterprises go green with data processing and align to their ESG initiatives. The adoption of Thermify Cloud is responsible capitalism and a step towards achieving net zero.” Thermify’s HeatHub system will give households monthly savings on their energy bills, reduce their carbon footprint and support a cleaner environment.
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SUSTAINABILITY SHOULD NOT BE COMPROMISED TO KEEP AIRTIGHT PROPERTIES COOL IN SUMMER Due to be effective from June, Part ‘O’ of the Building Regulations relates to overheating in properties and focuses on the need to uphold the health and wellbeing of occupants. The new regulation aims to limit instances of high indoor temperatures in new-build residencies by mitigating unnecessary solar gains in summer whilst ensuring there is provision to remove excess heat from the property where required. So, does insulation have a part to play in the cooling process? Part ‘O’ is a response to concerns that with designers being urged to create properties of ever-greater airtight performance in order to improve thermal efficiency, buildings are overheating due to a lack of proper air regulation. With solar gain being a major contributor to indoor temperature increase, the regulations outline a number of fixed shading measures which should be used to offset it. These include shutters, external blinds, overhangs and awnings. Glazing design is also highlighted as a consideration to reducing overheating risk, with windowsize, orientation and g-value (the rate at which glass transmits solar heat) being cited as important to the specification process. Non-passive solution to staying cool Part ‘O’ regulations state that ‘as far as reasonably practicable’ the standard should be achieved using passive means. Insulation falls into that category and is proven to prevent heat escape in colder months, particularly when installed as part of fabric-first building design. To a certain extent,
quality insulation will also negate heat entry into a property. However, on its own it will not be enough to combat uncomfortable temperature increases caused by excessive solar gain. This is why Part ‘O’ recommends non-passive interventions in the form of mechanical cooling and ventilation systems are used to reduce heat build-up and meet regulations. However, it stipulates that such interventions should only be seen as a secondary solution to other passive measures including open windows and exterior ventilation louvres. Although not the ultimate solution to the overheating issue, quality insulation remains integral to creating energyefficient homes and with it, reducing CO2 emissions. According to a 2021 report by the Environmental Audit Committee (EAC), energy inefficiency meant the UK’s housing stock accounted for 20% of the country’s greenhouse gases. Poorly insulated walls, ceilings and roofs are a major cause of fuel usage in counteracting the resulting energy escape. It’s important, therefore, that the risk of overheating is not a barrier to achieving a thermally efficient home. Properties can be airtight and breathable, it just requires a degree of common sense and utilising natural ventilation where required, such as opening windows, to prevent rooms from overheating in summer months. Otherwise, costly and energy-consuming mechanical ventilation systems will impact our homes’ sustainability by neutralising the insulation’s effect in creating a comfortable interior climate throughout all four seasons.
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HOW YOUNG INSTALLERS CAN MAKE THE PERFECT FIRST IMPRESSION William Hanson, the UK’s leading etiquette coach and expert, gives guidance to young installers on how to make the perfect first impression as part of the Future Talent Initiative from Worcester Bosch Worcester Bosch is delighted to announce their partnership with etiquette expert, William Hanson, to help educate young installers on how to make the perfect first impression when entering customers’ homes, as part of the ongoing Future Talent Initiative (FTI).
The most recent is led by William
As a leading expert in etiquette and CEO of the English Manner, the UK’s most established etiquette and protocol consultancy, William has the right skills and expertise to help young professionals develop their confidence and build strong relationships with their customers. William commented, “It has been a privilege to work with Worcester Bosch on this Initiative. It is true to say that first impressions do count, so I’m hoping young installers find my advice useful and are able to apply it to their working life.” Conor Evans, Head of Future Talent at Worcester Bosch, adds, “It has been great to have William onboard for our Future Talent Initiative. General etiquette are invaluable skills that are not necessarily taught at school, so we hope this can help young installers feel prepared when entering a customers’ home for the first time.” Architect Projects
The Future Talent Initiative was launched back in September 2021 and aims to help young installers, apprentices and those new to the sector navigate the start of their careers by providing them with advice spanning many different topics.
Hanson a leading etiquette expert, who has developed a bespoke resource to give young installers advice on how to make a strong first impression when interacting with customers in their homes. The video can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/ XaAiHhg54aU
If you are a young installer, an apprentice, or just new to the industry, visit the Worcester Bosch YouTube here to access the Future Talent Initiative series.
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HEATING, VENTILATION & INSULATION NEWS
MORE NOTTINGHAM HOMES TO GET SUPER ENERGY SAVING MEASURES Over 100 council homes in the city will benefit from improvement works to increase their energy efficiency and reduce heating and energy costs for residents. The works will see energy efficiency retrofits carried out on 103 homes in Radford.
NEW HOMES MUST SHOW 30 PER CENT CUT IN CARBON EMISSIONS All new buildings must reduce their greenhouse gases by nearly a third under new building regulations which will come into force in June. Under the rules, carbon emissions from new build homes must be 30 per cent lower than current standards and other new buildings such as offices and shops must be 27 per cent lower. Housing minister Eddie Hughes said the regulations were an important step towards 2025’s future homes and building standards where all new homes must be net-zero ready. “The changes will significantly improve the energy efficiency of the buildings where we live, work and spend our free time and are an important step on our country’s journey towards a cleaner, greener built environment.” This means installing solar panels and heat pumps and improving insulation will be critical for achieving the new tougher requirements.
New homes, care homes, student accommodation and children’s homes, must be designed to reduce overheating. Improvements to ventilation will be introduced to support residents’ safety in newly-built homes and to prevent airborne viruses from spreading in new nonresidential buildings. The National Federation of Builders, NFB, said it supported higher standards but warned against changing the rules every few years. NFB head of housing and planning policy Rico Wotulewicz said: “We’re encouraging our members to go higher than this interim standard as the 2025 future homes standard will move the goalposts again.” The trade body is critical of new part S regulation leaving developers to pay for offsite grid work infrastructure so that new homes have electric vehicle chargers. The Royal Institution of British Architects said the new rules had not gone far enough and should have included energy use regulation to force the built environment to decarbonise at the required rate. Brokers Hank Zarihs Associates said development finance lenders were keen to give construction loans to SME developers embracing innovation to make their buildings net-zero ready. There will be a six-month transition period allowing buildings already in the planning process to continue under the previous standards up until the 15th of June when the new rules come in.
Nottingham City Council and partners Nottingham City Homes are working with British Gas to potentially get over £530,000 of Energy Company Obligation (ECO) funding, which would go towards carrying out the work in Radford. This funding will support the Energiesprong work currently planned to be delivered through the DREeM (Deep Retrofit Energy Model) project, which is also part funded by the European Regional Development Fund. The project turns hard-to-heat council houses into ultra-low energy homes. The houses and bungalows in Radford will receive improvements that will not only make the homes warmer and reduce energy bills for tenants, but also improve the environmental performance of the homes, helping towards Nottingham’s ambition to become carbon neutral by 2028. The Deep Retrofit Energy Model (DREeM) improvements include: • Super insulated wall panels • New windows, including new internal window surrounds • Loft insulation • Solar panels • Solar battery for energy storage and distribution. Nottingham was the first place in the UK to pilot the ground-breaking wholehouse retrofit approach known as Energiesprong. This pioneering approach from the Netherlands, upgrades a home with innovative energy-saving and energy-generating measures. The end result is homes that are near net zero carbon. So far 59 number of homes in the city have benefitted from these retrofit measures. Nick Murphy, Chief Executive at Nottingham City Homes, said: “Residents who have already benefitted from the Energiesprong project tell us the work has made a real difference to the warmth of their homes. The retrofits, which include super insulated wall panels, new windows, roofs and solar panels, helps residents to save money on their energy bills. This new funding means we can create even more warmer homes whilst working to tackle fuel poverty.”
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Councillor Sally Longford, the City Council’s Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Energy, Environment and Waste Service, said: “This funding will go towards important retrofitting work on colder council homes in the city. The improvements will create homes that produce almost zero carbon emissions, reducing bills and increasing the warmth and well-being for residents. Homes, and especially older homes, account for a large proportion of carbon emissions so tackling this helps us towards our ambitious target of becoming carbon neutral by 2028.”
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© OMNIE Limited 2021. All information correct at time of publication. Product information and performance characteristics are subject to change without notice. Please see omnie.co.uk for the latest information or contact your local representative. OMNIE Limited, Unit 18, Apple Lane, Exeter, EX2 5GL 01392 36 36 05 customer.service@omnie.co.uk www.omnie.co.uk LowBoard®, TorFloor® and OMNIE® and the OMNIE logo are registered trademarks.
PROJECT TEAM Project Manager: Savills Architect: HLW Quantity Surveyor: Heasmans M&E: GDM Partnership
BW HAS COMPLETED THE FIT-OUT ON Canopius’ NEW OFFICE SPACE AT 22 Bishopsgate, LONDON’S NEWEST AND SECOND TALLEST SKYSCRAPER BW: Workplace Experts has completed the CAT B fit-out on privately owned insurance and reinsurance group Canopius’ new office space at 22 Bishopsgate, the most talked about new skyscraper located in the heart of the City of London’s financial district. The fit-out covers 39,000 sq. ft. of office space over levels 29 and 30. The BW team carefully inputted the views of a wide range of stakeholders into this design within one of the world’s most technologically advanced workspaces. The building uses a system developed by Smart Spaces, a Londonbased company that makes operating systems for buildings.
Bringing together a range of technologies like never before, the smart technology present includes facial-recognition entry for accessing the building, as well as a smartphone app, allowing for a seamless user-experience. Workers also can control elements from the comfort of their desks such as solar radiation-activated blinds on the windows and the temperature of their workspace. 22 Bishopsgate’s management team can make changes in real time thanks to a “digital twin” of the building with connected controls. Smart technology is in use throughout the building, with the façade having also been designed intelligently using the principles of Formula One aerodynamics. Upon entering Canopius’ space on level 29, visitors will find the reception and lounge, where the bold use of colour immediately draws in guests. Within this space is the most striking feature of the design - the red resin-coated helical staircase. This was introduced to connect the 29th and 30th floors internally and was installed by BW along with the completion of associated structural works.
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The main workspace/breakout space follows an open plan layout supported by a range of focus and meeting rooms hosting from 2 to 20 people. This reflects the group’s move towards activitybased working with branded neighbourhoods.
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The reception and lounge lead through to the ‘Canopius Lounge,’ a broker visitor suite and café. Designed with a clear vision of how brokers can work better together with their clients, the Canopius Lounge has been equipped with stations offering underwriters and claims managers the ability to share a private screen with clients. Also found on level 29 is the boardroom, a ‘war room,’ plus a multi-faith room, the IT helpdesk and build space, mailroom and stores. The main workspace/breakout space follows an open plan layout supported by a range of focus and meeting rooms hosting from 2 to 20 people. This reflects the group’s move towards activity-based working with branded neighbourhoods. The office is emblematic of everything the company stands for - embracing individuality, valuing collaboration, encouraging sharp and diverse thinking and getting good work done. In terms of design qualities, a warm and calm feel in the open plan desking and vast suite of focus rooms and collaboration spaces has been created by using a wide variety of textures from sumptuous velvet, copper mesh screens, and fabric wall coverings. This space has been brought to life with a colourful design that delights and surprises visitors and staff alike.
The space comes equipped with coffee/ tea points, print/copy rooms, storage and utility space, as well as a comms room on each floor. Level 30 also includes a library, staff café, first aid room and training room. The shift to a remote working environment brought on by the pandemic required the client and staff to adapt quickly to a new way of working. BW put in extra effort to build strong team relationships with this in mind. This challenge led to enhanced communication processes and improved technology. BW optimised remote collaboration tools, including 360° virtual site inspections, making it much more efficient to work remotely. Since the BW team understood and carefully considered the delivery priorities and challenges for the project, the experience met the client’s expectations and resulted in the scheme achieving Defect Free status at practical completion. BW further showed clear dedication to the project by leading multiple site tours to help the staff feel truly engaged with the move, ensuring Canopius’ request to engage employee spirit in the new design was fulfilled. The outcome is a new, dynamic office for Canopius that has its employees needs at its heart.
PROTECTING PROPERTY PROTECTING LIVES Envirograf® have manufactured and developed over 200 different passive fire products. Continuous innovation over the course of 40 years, and counting, allows us to remain at the leading edge of fire technology. Our wide range of passive fire prevention products are fully fire tested and achieve BS and EN fire standards. Products are designed in compliance with Approved Documents and UK Building Regulations. SCT Cavity Barrier trays provide an effective fire-resistant solution to voids and gaps within high-rise, multi-complex buildings. SCT trays are flexible and easily cut to size to fit around corners. Fire Brick Vents are designed with a flood defence plate to prevent water from entering and damaging your property.
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EnviroEcoWall Fireproof Panel Building System
BUILT-IN PROTECTION FROM FIRE & FLOOD The EnviroEcoWall Panels system is our alternative for new build domestic & commercial projects. Not only are EnviroEcoWall Panels fireproof, the buildings are also designed to protect against flooding thanks to the unique metal sub-frame that can carry the structure from 150mm to any height off the ground and can be raised to a new level at a later date in 300mm intervals.
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After setting fire to our test house, we replaced the burnt plasterboard, connected new electric fittings to existing cables and redecorated. The whole renovation process took less than 3 hours thanks to the successful fire containment and the absence of water damage that would normally have been caused by fire hoses.
We’re also using our insulated panels and steel subframe to make a new range of garden office buildings. A unique and cost-effective way to gain extra space, they are ideal for year-round use, providing a designated environment for a light and airy garden office, art studio, home gym, hobby room or just a relaxing garden retreat away from the house - the possibilities are endless!
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SAFETY, SECURITY & FIRE PREVENTION NEWS
TRAINING ACADEMY EXPANDS ITS COURSE OFFERING The Sontay Academy has developed its offering to provide a comprehensive suite of new eLearning courses in Health and Safety. The new courses will ensure employees are kept up to date with the latest health and safety legislation, improving an employee’s knowledge of safe working practices to create a safer working environment for all.
The Sontay Academy has partnered with a market-leading provider of online Health and Safety and Compliance Training. All courses are completed through an online Learner Management System. Candidates are issued with a certificate upon completion of the course.
The new health and safety courses include everything from electrical safety and accident reporting to driver awareness and food allergy awareness. Sontay, a leading manufacturer of sensing devices that can monitor and report on a building’s conditions, established its Academy in 2014. Since then, it has evolved to become more than just a specialist training academy for the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) and Climate Control Industry. It now offers more than 130 courses in everything from Human Resources to Business Compliance, including, now of course, Health and Safety. Commercial & Marketing Director, Stacey Lucas said: “We are delighted to build on the success of the Academy by expanding the role that the Academy plays. “We can only do this because we have worked hard to develop training partnerships and by talking to people in the industry, we were able to identify knowledge gaps. “As a company we want to upskill not only our staff but those who want their staff to be able to understand and manage risk helping to keep everyone safe.”
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Real time online app helps track patrols with photographic evidence A pioneering real-time app which aims to transform the industry standard for the creation and reporting of onsite security patrols has been developed and launched by national security firm Nexus Security. Nexus Security, which is part of the Fortel Group, has invested thousands of pounds months into research and development of the Leaf app. A key feature of the app is replacing the need for manual time and date stamps from security staff patrols with an electronic ‘tag’ updated in real time and supported by photographic records. The digital patrol logs within Leaf App form part of the ongoing development of the company’s online management portal. Available exclusively to clients of Nexus Security, the new platform will enable clients to access all uploaded patrol logs, both historically and as they happen. The platform also provides full visibility of real time online patrols to Controllers and Mobile Supervisors concerning site activity from more than 100 guarded sites, with Managers receiving daily reports of all activity to identify and address any non-conformances.
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NEXUS SECURITY LAUNCHES PIONEERING APP TO TRANSFORM THE INDUSTRY
Real time patrol logs are monitored centrally by Nexus`s 24hr control room at the company’s new state of the art head office in the West Midlands. Jot Engelbrecht, managing director of Nexus, said: “The real time online patrol logs further assure our clients that our guards are patrolling their sites out of hours and their assets are being looked after. “Clients will be able to identify any high value plant and material on site at shift handover and request that the items are photographed throughout the shift. We are excited to bring the latest technology solutions to our clients and it’s another example of our commitment to transparency and market leading reporting,” he added. To find out more about the system contact Jot Engelbrecht – jot@gonexus.co.uk
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SAFETY, SECURITY & FIRE PREVENTION NEWS
UK TO RECRUIT MORE FIRE ENGINEERING APPRENTICES IN WAKE OF GRENFELL AND CLADDING RECOMMENDATIONS A Birmingham firefighter, one of the first fire engineering apprenticeship students in the country, speaks to the UK Minister for Building Safety and Fire as course gets underway. A fire engineering degree apprenticeship – the first of its kind in the UK – is growing its student and employer base to meet national demand for fire engineers and in line with new Government legislation. The part-time Higher-Level Degree Apprenticeship in Fire Engineering, offered by Birmingham City University and developed in partnership between the National Fire Chiefs Council and the UK’s commercial fire engineering industrial sector, is a response to new Government legislation and recommendations and requirements for a workforce to address the shortfall. The public inquiry and the investigations into the dreadful loss of life at Grenfell in 2017
identified a massive competency gap and an opportunity for people to acquire new skills in fire engineering across the UK, with the Government currently progressing a new Fire Safety Bill and Building Safety Bill through Parliament. One of the UK’s first fire engineering apprentices received a boost to his studies after being invited to join a recent virtual call with Minister of State for Building Safety and Fire Lord Stephen Greenhalgh. David Cooper, a firefighter based at West Midlands Fire Service’s Northfield station in South Birmingham discussed his career journey so far with the Minister, and how the apprenticeship programme has helped him to realise his career goals. David said, ‘It has been a brilliant journey for me so far – and to speak with the Minister early in the course was a great experience. “We’re grateful that he gave his time to find out more about our work and to share encouragement. As with any challenge, I’d say to anyone considering this apprenticeship to grasp the opportunity with both hands.” The degree course is ideally suited to those currently working in the Fire and Rescue Service and in Fire Engineering consultancies, works to a national standard and employers can use the Apprentice Levy Fund to pay for the course, with students combining full-time
employment with four years of part time study to achieve a formal qualification. Area Commander Steve Ball, of West Midlands Fire Service, said, “We’re proud to be partnering with Birmingham City University for this apprenticeship degree opportunity. “West Midlands Fire Service is committed to reducing risk across our communities, and this includes a focus on the built environment. “We wish Firefighter Cooper and his fellow students every success on their fire engineering journeys.” Mike Leonard, Visiting Professor of Manufacturing and Construction at Birmingham City University, said, “Birmingham City University has recognised the need to close the competence gap by becoming the first UK university to offer the Fire Engineering Degree Apprenticeship, allowing new entrants and experienced professionals to future develop their skills. “The majority of the first intake are mature students, who can often draw on in-depth experience and overlay this with the learning from the course to become more rounded and qualified professionals. “Birmingham City University is now actively processing applications for the January 2023 intake of the Fire Engineering Apprenticeship Degree, heavily investing in building the team and in new lab facilities, partnering with other organisations to enrich the learning experience and developing opportunities for Masters and PhD students.”
FIRE SAFETY WORK EARNS COMPANY TOP AWARD South Tyneside Homes has won a prestigious industry award for its approach to fire safety in residential tower blocks. The housing management company scooped Best Fire Safety Innovation at the Housing Digital Awards.
The TwinnedIt process creates a ‘digital twin’ of buildings and stores information such as construction details and materials
Forthcoming legislation under the Building Safety Bill will strengthen requirements for landlords to evidence how buildings they manage are kept safe. Cllr Jim Foreman, Lead Member for Housing and Transport, said: “We’re delighted to have won this award which recognises just how much importance we place on our residents’ safety. Following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, tenants were understandably looking for additional peace of mind, so we worked closely with them to provide reassurance and fitted modern sprinkler systems in all our high-rise blocks. We wanted to further build on that trust
and transparency, and the use of TwinnedIt allows us to make information available directly to residents. This technology creates a digital twin of our high rises and connects to a live data feed from the devices we have in our buildings and publishes all that information in one place, where the building regulator, the emergency services, and most importantly, our residents can view it.” One of South Tyneside Council’s key priorities is to invest in the built environment. In the wake of the Grenfell disaster South Tyneside Council took the decision to invest £1.4m in the retrofitting of automatic sprinkler systems in all its high-rise blocks, even though they were deemed safe and cladding systems were fireproof.
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The organisation, which manages and maintains around 16,000 homes on behalf of South Tyneside Council, has implemented ‘TwinnedIt’ technology to create 3D imaging of the borough’s highrise blocks.
all in one place. This data can then be shared with the emergency services, residents and partners.
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‘SECURITY MATTERS’
BY WOJCIECH BROZYNA - MD OF ALUPROF UK Wojciech Brozyna, MD of Aluprof UK
With various security standards now sited for door and window installations, it can be difficult to determine which ‘standard’ should be acceptable when choosing new windows and doors. Often confusing is PAS24 and Q-Mark, so what do these ‘standards’ refer to and what do they mean? According to the British Standards Institute (BSI), there are currently twenty-three standards that are relevant when specifying windows and doors. Not all standards are applicable to any one product, but one product will need to pass a selection of these standards, depending on its design and material composition. One of the most basic specifications for all products, will be a pass to meet ‘BS 6375-1:2015+A1:2016 Performance of windows and doors - Classification for weathertightness and guidance on selection and specification’. Basically, a standard which aims to determine that the window or door will keep the weather out when used in a given location, perhaps a products most basic function.
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With a simple latch, the door or window can be ‘closed’ against the weather and keep the warmth inside and help increase sound attenuation. Adding a simple lock will improve security, but will it meet current methods of possible attack when an intruder seeks access? The ‘PAS 24:2016 - Enhanced security performance requirements for door-sets and windows in the UK.
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As explained, PAS24 is a BSI standard, this differs from a Q-Mark which is a mark of quality. Sometimes known as a ‘third-party’ certification process, this approach involves both initial and ongoing standards testing of products that are being produced, together with audits of the production facility. The reason for this? Random testing of products demonstrates that up to 50% of typical door and window production will initially fail the claimed security standard requiring remedial work to bring them up to standard. Quality certification, therefore, ensures that every door and window in production meets the standard, not just the ones currently undergoing testing. BM TRADA offer the Q-Mark certification scheme which involves initial type testing and the implementation of factory production control audits. In order to maintain certification, a company undergoes periodic audit testing and factory production control audits from BM TRADA. This certification is regarded in the UK as one of the most rigorous and intensive processes currently awarded. The quality of the Q-Mark Certification scheme is recognised by the NHBC and the National House Building Council.
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BM TRADA offer the Q-Mark certification scheme which involves initial type testing and the implementation of factory production control audits.
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With a simple latch, the door or window can be ‘closed’ against the weather and keep the warmth inside and help increase sound attenuation. Adding a simple lock will improve security, but will it meet current methods of possible attack when an intruder seeks access? The ‘PAS 24:2016 - Enhanced security performance requirements for door-sets and windows in the UK. Door-sets and windows intended to offer a level of security suitable for dwellings and other buildings exposed to comparable risk’ is a ‘Product Assessment Specification’ which is referenced to in the Building Regulations Approved Document Q1, Security in dwellings. By specifying multipoint locking arrangements for enhanced break-in security and allowing simple egress by the optional use of thumb turn devices on doors, forms part of this standard along with the testing of products. This enhanced security specification has quickly become the minimum requirement for home security, ease of use and what is required in products used in new build homes and home improvement.
Membership of the Q-Mark scheme is purely voluntary, but any company entering the scheme shows their commitment to offering quality products, as a result Q-Mark is increasingly being specified by contractors. Aluprof UK has several systems of doors and windows which meet PAS 24 and offer Q-Mark certification, more information is available on our website or on the BM TRADA portal where our certificates can be viewed. Since setting up the Aluprof Office at the Business Design Centre in London, the company has rapidly grown their specification influence in the UK with their high-performance architectural aluminium systems. Further expansion of the company’s headquarters in Altrincham now provides specifiers with meeting facilities and an extensive showroom of commercial systems to view. With overseas growth across Europe spreading into the Middle East and firm roots already in East of USA, the company has become a global player in facade supply. Further information is available on the company’s website at aluprof.co.uk or direct from their UK head office in Altrincham on 0161 941 4005.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN SECURITY FENCING
STUART GLEN, UK SALES MANAGER AT JACKSONS FENCING
The type of fence specified depends on the application. For perimeter security, look
for steel fencing that has been designed to British Standards and is galvanised or zinc alloy coated for long-lasting protection. The main types of perimeter security fencing are welded mesh panels and vertical bar railings, and there are many variations of each. Both can offer good visibility and do not impede surveillance, are aesthetically pleasing, and offer excellent security against climbing and
attempted breaches. For higher security applications which require tested and certified protection against forced entry, look for LPS 1175 and Secured by Design approved versions. For welded mesh panels, wire thickness is a key indicator of quality and compliance with the various British Standards. Welded mesh fence panels are almost always sold with a protective coating covering the wire. Some manufacturers measure their wire diameters after the coating is applied. A smaller diameter wire with a heavier layer of coating will not provide the same structural strength and resistance to cutting as a product made from heavier diameter wire, even though both will be shown as being the same diameter.
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A 25 year guarantee demonstrates the manufacturer’s confidence in its products, and their dedication to providing reliable, long-lasting products that reduce their carbon footprint.
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Specifying fencing for safety and security purposes requires careful consideration of key components that will ultimately determine whether the chosen solution will stand the test of time, and serve the purpose it was designed for.
When choosing vertical bar railings, look for fencing with welded pale-through-rail construction. Pales that are affixed on the front of rails can be easily removed to create a gap in the perimeter, while pales which are inserted through rails and welded have no visible fixings and create an extremely secure fence. For areas where children are present, such as play areas, the safety of the fencing is just as important as the play equipment within. Look for RoSPA approved designs, and fencing designed to BS EN 1176 with anti-trap properties. Fencing that can’t be easily vandalised is essential to avoid creating an unsafe scene of broken fencing and hazardous nails. Where noise reduction is required in addition to security, look for tested acoustic barriers with an anti-climb flat profile, no gaps that would allow sound to escape or provide a foothold, and a solid construction to increase privacy. There are also LPS 1175 rated versions available, and these are an ideal choice for data centres. The height of the fencing specified will depend on the type of property it is securing. School perimeters should ideally have fences between 1.8-2.4m, while high security sites such as data centres and utilities generally require fencing of at least 3 metres, and prisons may have at least 5m high fencing. Playgrounds will require much shorter fences at a minimum height of 1m to allow for independent play, without creating an intimidating environment. With any type of fencing, the most vulnerable areas are the fixings and panel connectors. Screws, bolts and rivets should be tamper-proof to prevent them from coming loose and compromising security, or being removed manually to gain access. Similarly, panel-to-post connectors should be concealed to ensure that whole panels cannot be removed from the posts. All fixings should be galvanised or stainless steel for added protection against corrosion.
With all of us trying to make more responsible, sustainable choices, it’s important to choose fencing that has a traceable supply chain, and offers a long guarantee. A 25 year guarantee demonstrates the manufacturer’s confidence in its products, and their dedication to providing reliable, long-lasting products that reduce their carbon footprint. In addition, wildlife, particularly hedgehogs, should be considered when specifying fencing. Unfortunately, hedgehogs can get stuck in mesh fencing, but vertical bar fencing ticks all the boxes when it comes to security and hedgehog preservation. Featuring pales spaced to conform to anti-
trap regulations, hedgehogs have more than enough room to pass between the pales to the other side, which is essential for their survival. Where visible deterrents are necessary, or where there is a risk of climbing - a site visit indicates buildings, trees, or lampposts that could be used to gain purchase - security toppings can be added to the fence. Barbed wire is a cost-efficient option with a menacing appearance, while rotating spikes ensure that even the most prepared would find it impossible to gain access by climbing. Warning signs must be visible where fence toppings are in place, and these act as an additional deterrent by themselves. Gates should always be considered at the same time as fencing, and should match the type of fencing to guarantee consistency of security, as well as providing a polished appearance. There are many types of gates available, from swing gates, to tracked or cantilever sliding gates, or bi-folding gates that offer rapid access. Access control devices should be chosen to suit the type of gate and security level of the site, such as card readers, key fobs, digital pads, and key locks. To increase safety, separate gates should be installed for vehicles and pedestrians. This will also increase security - having smaller entrances for pedestrians reduces the need to open vehicular gates to allow them access, and avoids leaving large gaps in the perimeter. When specifying automated gates, it is essential that they are CE marked, and all DHF safety standards and guidelines should be strictly applied to ensure full safety compliance.
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For help with specifying security fencing and gates for your project, contact an expert at Jacksons Fencing today on 0800 408 1341.
www.jacksons-security.co.uk
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PROJECT NEWS
BW: WORKPLACE EXPERTS RESTORES BLOOMSBURY BUILDING FOR UNIVERSITY OF LONDON TO CREATE CONTEMPORARY COMMERCIAL OFFICE SPACE
BW: Workplace Experts has completed the CAT A+ refurbishment of 1 Malet Street in Bloomsbury, London for the University of London. BW renovated an existing building to uncover its original period features, along with adding more modern interventions to create high-standard commercial office space. The brief involved opening up the space to reveal its original features, paying homage to the district of
MATTEO BIANCHI STUDIO ADDS TOUCH OF MAGIC Bucking the trend for demure home cinema-rooms, Matteo Bianchi Studio has recently created a playful, design-led cinema space at a Fulham residence. Located in the basement of the large, four-floor mansion house, the previously damp and disused space has become a communal area for fun, entertaining and family interaction. The lively yet sophisticated décor, which inspired the design through the rest of the house, is aptly named ‘The Magic Room’. The room offers both a cinema experience and a kitchenette, providing a handy
and welcoming space to prepare drinks and snacks before enjoying a film. A sumptuous L-shaped sofa and oversized curtains create a comfortable environment for relaxing and socialising. The Itlas wooden flooring adds a sophisticated rich colour, and cleverly adorns a wall to give more depth to the space. The wooden wall is home to a neon cinema sign, adding a splash of colour, light, and joyfulness to the space.
skylight. The clients regularly use the bright space for yoga and meditation sessions.
The space has been kept intentionally playful and flexible. This allows the family to take full advantage of the natural light flooding in from the deliberately oversized
Matteo Bianchi Studio was given complete autonomy throughout the project, which allowed the full potential of the home, particularly the basement, to be realised.
The cinema room is accessed through the ‘Magic’ corridor; a dramatic walkway that uses distorted mirrors to create a fun atmosphere. Matteo Bianchi’s spectacular Baffo Spotlight is positioned in the middle of the corridor, adding to the uniqueness of the corridor.
The creation of the cinema room was part of a much larger interior design transformation which included a complete redesign of four teenage bedrooms, a master bedroom and entrance lobby. Commenting on the project and in particular the cinema room, Matteo Bianchi, Founder of Matteo Bianchi Studio said: “This beautiful family home holds so many surprises, and the inviting and luxurious cinema room is one of the best. From a damp and dingy basement to a magical space where precious family time can be enjoyed, the cinema room delighted the client beyond any expectations.
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“Cinema rooms are always wonderful but sometimes they can be rather muted. The creative freedom we had in this project allowed us to create such a special, designled space that brings together colour, playfulness and decadence.”
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PROJECT NEWS Bloomsbury, which is best known for its historical literary connections. In terms of architecture, the area is known for its mix of beautiful Georgian structures, grandeur and more practical Victorian spaces and sophisticated modern buildings.
Competition stage image of the new Leeds Hospitals of the Future by Perkins&Will, Penoyre & Prasad, and Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects.
This particular project is an elegant period building and BW were tasked with fitting tasteful veneer doors, as well as exposing the magnificent high, suspended ceilings to restore the look and feel of the original space. The resulted in a spectacular, open plan building with practical modern interventions. Working alongside multi-professional consultancy practice Pick Everard and the building’s energy provider, BW set up the space’s hot water supply. The new heating strategy was designed to receive hot water from the Bloomsbury district heating network, instead of locally via gas fired boilers. This required extra intricate design and coordination from the project team. Altogether this development employs modern interventions while sensitively restoring the building’s beautiful period features. The project team included: Architect: Pick Everard M & E Consultant: Pick Everard Structural Consultant: Pick Everard Building Control Consultant: Assent Building Control Project Manager: University of London Cost Consultant: Currie and Brown Contract Administrator: Currie and Brown
LEEDS TEACHING HOSPITALS NHS TRUST APPOINTS PERKINS&WILL TO DELIVER TWO STATE-OF-THE-ART HOSPITALS INTEGRATED INTO A SINGLE BUILDING ON PRIME UK SITE Perkins&Will, led by Penoyre & Prasad with Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects, has signed a contract with Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust to design two new state-of-the-art hospitals on the site of Leeds General Infirmary (LGI). The appointment follows a competition held by the Trust in 2021 to find an architect to design its “Hospitals of the Future” project—one of 40 new hospitals that the U.K. government has committed to build by 2030 as part of its New Hospital Programme (NHP). The Trust’s vision for the LGI site calls for a single, state-of-the-art building that houses two unique hospitals—one for adults and one for children— including a centralised maternity and neonatal unit. Significantly, these designs bring together for the first time clinical services for children and young people under one roof.
Taking cues from the ways people interact with technology in a pandemic era, the design team incorporated digital features throughout the project, too. For example, a cutting-edge twin technology will be used to track the building’s energy performance and other technology will reduce bureaucratic processes helping to increase the amount of time physicians and care staff can spend with patients. The design team is now undertaking staff and patient engagement sessions to gather input and support the next stage of design development. The adults, children, young people, parents, carers and clinicians from across the region will be instrumental in helping to shape how the facility might look and feel in these early designs. The team of architects responsible for the design and delivery of the project is known globally for designing transformational environments that support the health of communities. They have designed and delivered some of the most innovative hospitals and women’s and children’s care environments in the world.
Architect Projects
Patient care and well-being is at the centre of the design with all wards orientating toward the outdoors, maximizing exposure to daylight and good views. Communal spaces also feature throughout, including a rooftop plaza at the heart of the children’s hospital. A garden terrace on the fifth floor of one of the hospitals, complete with plants mirroring the local landscape,
as well as green space in the site’s car park, draws inspiration from the surrounding verdant environment.
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PROJECT NEWS
SOUTHSIDE REGENERATION BOOSTED BY WILFORD ROAD PLANNING SUBMISSION
Plans have been submitted for a new development on Nottingham’s Southside to help house the city’s growing student population. Three Wilford Road – a 356-bed development designed by CPMG Architects – features a mixture of studio and cluster apartments, along with generous social, activity and external spaces, which are all designed with student wellbeing in mind.
BDP PROGRESSES INDONESIAN GREEN PORT CITY PLAN Global, interdisciplinary design consultancy, BDP, has been appointed to design a 528-hectare, mixed-use, waterfront development masterplan in Patimban New City, Indonesia. Commissioned by JICA for the West Java Government, a multidisciplinary team from BDP, Nippon Koei and AMO (Aarunya Mitra Optima) has created a new city-scale development plan on a flood-prone site, between mangrove forests and Patimban port in Subang, West Java. The sustainable masterplan aims to unlock the commercial potential of the area and create a resilient, ecological and prosperous waterfront city which promotes a symbiotic relationship between its communities, local ecology and the built environment. The plan adopts a forward-thinking, city-wide green infrastructure network strategy featuring components which promote sustainable communities and enhance biodiversity.
Architect Projects
Interventions include rain gardens, green roofs, attenuation ponds and tanks, bio-retention swales, wetland filtration beds, open parks, porous hard surfaces, floating planting and aeration systems. Combined with conservation and community stewardship opportunities identified with the local authorities, the scheme will holistically enhance the ecology and flood-resiliency of the site. Indonesia has planned the development and upgrade of several ports and port ‘hubs’ across the country. Patimban port was identified as one such area that would be developed to create new communities and to include measures that mitigate against, and adapt, to the effects of climate change. BDP’s plan is also part of a wider strategic redevelopment that will shift the logistics pressures from industrial areas of Indonesia to under-developed locations across the archipelago.
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The project is the latest in the architect’s ongoing partnership with the developer Jensco Group, for whom it has also designed the nearby Ten Traffic Street student accommodation, due for completion ahead of the 2022/23 academic year. The project team consists of planning consultants P&DG, structural and civil engineers Hexa Consulting, heritage consultants Wessex, landscape architects Ares, and MEP consultants CPW.
GREEN LIGHT FOR FIRST PHASE OF BEGBROKE SCIENCE PARK EXPANSION New research buildings will meet innovation needs of the future Oxford University Development (OUD) today confirms reserved matters planning consent has been granted for the first phase of its Begbroke Science Park expansion, which comprises two new state-of-the-art research buildings. This first phase of the scheme will bring forward new research facilities for the University’s Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences departments and associated groups, as well as providing space to incubate spin-out companies. The two buildings, totalling 12,500 sq. m., will house both academic and commercial research at the Science Park, north of Oxford.
The development will also deliver improvements to sustainable transport infrastructure, as well as soft and hard landscaping and public art integrated into the landscape. OUD is a property development company set up under the £4bn joint venture between the University of Oxford and Legal & General Capital. Bolstering its long-term pension commitments by creating real assets which provide new jobs, housing, productivity and wage growth. Legal & General has invested over £30bn in levelling-up regional economies throughout the UK. This includes forming major partnerships with local and central governments, universities and local businesses in place such as Cardiff, Manchester and Newcastle, as well as Oxford. OUD is collaborating with Bruntwood SciTech as Development Manager for the first phase.
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FIT SHOW SET TO DELIVER RECORDBREAKING INDUSTRY SHOWCASE
FIT Show will return to the NEC Birmingham from 10 - 12 May, 2022 and is set to bring together every link in the supply chain from manufacturers and suppliers of the latest windows, doors, glass, hardware and components, right through to the specifiers and fitters of these products.
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We really have hit the ground running this year and I am delighted to see so many exciting brands, both new and returning, added to the FIT Show 2022 lineup.
“For manufacturers and suppliers of the latest glass, glazing, hardware and components products and services - FIT Show offers an unrivalled opportunity to get the brand infront of our 10,000 decision makers who are visiting the show specifically to purchase these goods.
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Organisers of FIT Show, the UK’s leading trade show for the glass, glazing, hardware and components industry, have announced record levels of industry support for its delayed 2021 event.
Visitor registration for the event is currently tracking at 50% above the same point in the campaign for FIT Show 2019 show, highlighting the appetite to get back to live events. When FIT Show opens in May, it will be the first live European trade show for the fenestration industry in more than three years.
supplier Media HUT, Checkatrade and Solar Calibre Doors.
Organisers have reported that there will be an exciting lineup with a combination of brand leaders, new and exciting start-ups, FIT Show first-timers and some well known brands who will be returning for the first time in several years.
FIT Show event director, Nickie West comments: “We really have hit the ground running this year and I am delighted to see so many exciting brands, both new and returning, added to the FIT Show 2022 lineup.
In January, machinery giant Haffner Murat increased its space to 610sqm, making it the largest stand in FIT Show’s history, in order to be able to showcase more running machinery such as the Graf Synergy Range. Fenestration industry recruitment experts Chase Taylor have also taken more space at the show, as did composite decking supplier Ronjack.
Architect Projects
Debut FIT Show exhibitors who have signed up in recent weeks include bespoke metal door manufacturer, Strongdor and modular steel outbuildings manufacturer, Telluria. They will be joined by FIT Show first-timers ICB Fabrications, sustainable merchandise
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Returning brands include machinery experts Emmegi, bespoke timber window, door and fire doorset manufacturer West-Port Timber, window and door manufacturer Force 8, and hardware manufacturer J Banks & Co Ltd.
“The lifting of UK restrictions and delay of Fensterbau have boosted both exhibitor and visitor enquiries, making the UK a safe haven for those looking to connect their brand with the market, en masse, via a trade show. We’re proud that FIT Show will be the first major European trade show for the entire industry, post-pandemic.
“For those who specify or install these products, whether that be on small domestic projects right through to multi-site and complex commercial builds or retrofits, a trip to FIT Show will allow them to see the latest products on the market. We’ll have every link in the supply chain under one roof allowing visitors to speak directly to manufacturers, network and connect with colleagues and suppliers old and new. “We’re working hard behind the scenes on our learning programme, which is taking shape at pace. We’ll be delivering the very latest information about key industry issues, including presentations about the Approved Documents F, L & O covering the upcoming changes to Building Regulations, which are to come into force from 15th June. “We’ll also be looking at sustainability, offsite and modular construction and content that helps our audience to do better business when they leave the show. From finding the most sustainable product offerings and managing their supply chain, through to improving efficiencies.” Over 200 brands will display the very latest products and materials for use across domestic, commercial, private and public sector building and renovation projects. Visitors can expect to see the likes of door manufacturer Doorco, glazing experts Glazpart, window systems giant Kommerling, Roseview Windows, lantern roof experts Made For Trade, Morley Glass, Ultraframe, VEKA and Victorian Sliders.
2022 NEC BIRMINGHAM 10-12 MAY 2022
FITSHOW.CO.UK
FIT SHOW IS BACK AFTER 3 LONG YEARS.
MISS FIT MISS OUT
NEC BIRMINGHAM, 10-12 MAY 2022 Meet these exhibitors and much more at FIT Show 2022. Scan the QR code to register for FREE. #FITShow22
SHOW PREVIEW: KBB BIRMINGHAM 2022 SET TO REUNITE THE KBB SECTOR Europe’s largest dedicated kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms exhibition kbb Birmingham, is set to return from 6-9th March 2022. Taking place at the NEC, kbb Birmingham will feature over 300 exhibitors across 26 different product categories, featuring the very latest innovations and cutting-edge design. The biennial event expects an audience of over 15,000 visitors over the four days, attracting senior decision makers from the residential, retail and contract sector. kbb Birmingham will feature an unrivalled selection of Europe’s most established and prestigious brands all housed under one roof. Exhibitors already confirmed include Quooker, Capel, Electrolux, Davroc and Caesarstone, as well as a number of up-and-coming brands in the sector. Many exhibitors will be offering visitors to the show, a first look at their latest product launches and sharing the very best in KBB sector trends and award-winning designs. To find out more, the latest exhibitor list is now available on the kbb Birmingham website. kbb Birmingham Sales Director Jon Johnston comments; “We are looking forward to reuniting the KBB industry for 4
days of unrivalled networking and specifying. For many of our exhibitors this will be the first opportunity they’ve had to showcase their latest products and services, following an unprecedented 2 years. kbb Birmingham offers an unbeatable opportunity for our community to meet in-person with valued partners, colleagues and visitors - we can’t wait to welcome everyone back.” Commitment to Safety Informa Markets, the organisers of kbb Birmingham, have introduced Informa AllSecure, a series of best practice guidelines and industry standards for all event teams to adopt post Covid-19. As a result, there are 2 key differences that exhibitors and visitors will notice when attending kbb Birmingham:
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All aisles have been widened to 4m across the show floor to allow for easier density management and physical distancing, should this be recommended by local government at the time of the show. Physical visitor and exhibitor badges will be replaced by digital badges that can be accessed on any smart phone. All visitors will be encouraged to register online
rather than registering when they arrive at the event. Kbb Birmingham Sales Director Jon Johnston continues; “Our Informa AllSecure guidelines ensure enhanced health and safety standards. Whether they are exhibitors, visitors, speakers or sponsors, we want all our customers to come to kbb Birmingham to connect, learn and do business, safely and with confidence.” The AllSecure best practice standards raise the bar on delivering safe, hygienic, productive and high-quality organised event experiences. This new standard is now being adopted by key stakeholders in the events industry worldwide and will continue to be updated as new ideas emerge. More information on the 10 key principles that make up the AllSecure policy can be found on the kbb website here.
Architect Projects
kbb Birmingham is delighted to once again have the support of our partners including lead media partner kbbreview, as well as media partners KBBFocus, BKU, designerati, Kitchens & Bathrooms News and Designer Magazine, sustainability partner The Used Kitchen Company (TUKC), and association partners the BMA, KBSA and BIKBBI. For more information on kbb Birmingham, to exhibit or to register interest, please visit www.kbb.co.uk
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It was right here in Whitebirk, Lancashire that the very first traditional fireclay sinks were made - back in the late 1800s. Centuries later, here at the Whitebirk Sink Company we’re proud to be the only British-owned company continuing this fine tradition. Every handmade sink is a masterpiece of traditional manufacturing created by our very own skilled artisans, who draw upon years of specialist experience to create truly iconic heritage and contemporary designs. Every authentic sink in our Collections takes time to create, and the result is a true masterpiece of traditional manufacturing. They are made here in North West England by our very own talented craftsmen, who use long-established techniques (passed down through generations of local artisans) to produce iconic heritage and contemporary designs.
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KBB SHOW PREVIEW
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Every small sustainable step the architectural and construction industry can make a huge impact on the environment and should be a key consideration for all, moving forward. landfill, find a scheme or business that can help you be more sustainable.
How to promote sustainability as an industry Once every trade in the industry begins to see the importance of being sustainable, and adds an environmentally friendly KPI to its business plan, the sooner the promotion of that eco-friendly USP can begin. Utilising the perks of being more environmentally conscious will certainly open more doors, whether that’s through staff wanting to work for you, or customers coming through it. So, begin by announcing your new initiative to your customers, staff and other stakeholders.
THE IMPORTANCE OF SUSTAINABILITY IN THE INTERIORS INDUSTRY By Looeeze Grossman, founder of The Used Kitchen Company Looeeze Grossman, Founder and CEO of The Used Kitchen Company As an industry, being sustainable has only touched the surface in terms of what ‘we’ can do. Regardless of whether you think being green is a marketing tactic or not, the statistics don’t lie, so making a conscious effort to reduce wastage is crucial. It’s also going to become more and more important for the customers coming through the door too, so being more aware of what the architectural and construction industry is doing collectively to stop materials going to landfill and being a step ahead of the wave in terms of protecting the environment can only be a positive. How to be more sustainable as an industry Firstly, start with small things and build up. It’s important to recycle absolutely everything that you possibly can. Reuse your packing materials and cardboard boxes, reduce paper transactions, and use eco-friendly products that are biodegradable and non-toxic. Secondly, do your research. Do you know what legislation is going to be introduced
by the government? We already know that 2022 will see a much heavier campaign to reduce plastic, with the plastic tax coming to fruition in the coming months, and 2023 looks to be even more promising. By 2035, municipal waste to landfill will be 10% or less. If you aren’t doing your bit, now is the time! Finally, look for companies that will help you to reduce your waste, like The Used Kitchen Company, where you can recycle used and ex-display kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms and living rooms and make a profit while you’re doing it. Look at where and what you throw away, and if it’s something substantial like a kitchen, don’t send it to
As an industry, we are bound to see customers begin to steer away from products with non-sustainable offerings, and be keen to see what, in addition to the product itself, you as a business are offering. So, whether it’s in your marketing collateral, on your website, or through a sustainability logo on your packaging, make sure it’s wellknown what commitments you’re making as a business. It’s also important to make sure your staff are promoting your business’ commitments too as they are one of your best marketing tools and watch as you see the loyalty of returning customers come to fruition. Every small sustainable step the architectural and construction industry can make a huge impact on the environment and should be a key consideration for all, moving forward.
Looeeze Grossman, Founder and CEO of The Used Kitchen Company: 020 8349 1943 | www.theusedkitchencompany.com Looeeze Grossman founded The Used Kitchen Company in 2005, at a time when used and ex display kitchens were simply ending up on landfill. She founded the business due to her values and desire to act on a scenario that nobody was tackling and realised that the situation was a worrying misuse of the planet’s resources and would only get worse. TUKC now sells for over 1000 showrooms nationwide and as a result have saved close to 20,000 tonnes of waste from landfill. Looeeze is always focused on influencing opinion, forging new partnerships and driving new initiatives that can enable the business to achieve the next milestone in recycling. Looeeze has an advertising and marketing background and created the concept of kitchen recycling 16 years ago. She is now one of the most recognised and respected thought leaders within the industry and a major influencer in promoting sustainability in the kitchen world.
Architect Projects
Her constant drive to fight these issues culminated with the introduction of the Kitchen Passport last year; the UK’s first response to Defra’s ‘Resources & Waste Strategy’ of December 2018, which suggested that product passports would have a significant role to play in the UK achieving its waste reduction targets by 2050. In response Looeeze created the Kitchen Passport which asks kitchen owners to take responsibility, list the kitchen’s materials, detail how to recycle them and, above all, utilise the digital capacity to pass a kitchen on, when they no longer want it, transferring the digital passport into the new owner’s name.
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KBB SHOW PREVIEW
KBB PRODUCT LAUNCHES ARMAC MARTIN Armac Martin will exhibit their new Digbeth Luxury Handle Collection, featuring hand-finished linear ridged details and a distinctive industrial style.
ACQUABELLA Acquabella will be sharing several new products, which they have been developing over the last two years including the Arabba Collection, with a new highdefinition textile-look, the On-top XL Sink Range and Opal Quiz Bathtub.
NOBILIA For 2022, Nobilia have updated their kitchen range with new design options and a multitude of features to make life in the kitchen even more customisable and convenient.
DANSANI In partnership with Consentino, Dansani are launching a range of Silestone basins that come in six finishes to complement their Calidris range of bathroom furniture.
ROCA Roca has recently released their Ona Collection, which includes slim basins and cylindrical, slender faucets. The toilets in this range involve rimless, touchless features and Supraglaze® coating to ensure more efficient cleaning.
ROTPUNKT KÜCHEN
Triflow are now proud to launch our NEW Triflow O3 water tap range! Triflow O3 Water is produced using an Ozone generator, safely mixing air and a little bit of electricity into the water. Independently verified by TUV, one of the world’s leading testing service providers, Triflow O3 water has been developed to eliminate 99.99% of Viruses and Microbes chemical free. 3,000 times more powerful than Chlorine, using Triflow O3 water on hands, worksurfaces and food will help to protect you and your family. Other benefits include: • Keeping food fresh for up to 3 times longer • Removing odours from fish, garlic, smoke, etc • 2 Year Guarantee on both Generator and Tap • Award-winning tap designs to perfectly complement any kitchen or bathroom. On display at KBB stand E76, come down and sample the technology yourself.
HAFELE Häfele will be showcasing the new Loox 5 lighting range, an LED lighting system that can be integrated into furniture and units. Plus, Häfele’s brand new digital door and handle visualiser will be on show for the first time ever.
ALKU KITCHENS & BEDROOMS Alku will new sharing their new range of inframe kitchens, along with their new home office collection and pocket door system.
Architect Projects
Rotpunkt Küchen are presenting various new innovations for 2022 including Memory RI doors, new Fenix colours and their exclusive Matt lacquer antifingerprint doors.
Established in 1978, Triflow Concepts are best known for developing the world’s first tap to deliver hot, cold, and filtered water from a single spout.
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© Aaron Scott Richards
SHOW PREVIEW: GRAND DESIGNS LIVE RETURNS TO EXCEL LONDON IN 2022 The UK’s premier event for home building, renovation and improvement makes a welcome return to London for the first time since May 2019. Hosted by TV presenter and design guru Kevin McCloud, Grand Designs Live will run over nine days from 30 April – 8 May 2022.
Architect Projects
The show is set to include exciting new exhibitors and features, which will join the long-running favourites that have made it popular with the many thousands of visitors who have walked through the doors during its 17-year history. Whether you want to build or renovate your own home or simply redecorate a room, you’ll find plenty of brilliant ideas and inspiration at Grand Designs Live.
New for 2022 is The Green Zone, an entire area dedicated to showcasing eco-friendly products and services from companies that put sustainability at the very heart of their business. Spread over 2000 sqm, The Green Zone includes exhibitors with expertise covering all aspects of the home as well as personal transport. You’ll find products such as eco building materials, insulation, heating and renewable systems, furnishings, and electric car-charging equipment. Plus, championed by Kevin McCloud, a selection of the most innovative eco ideas can be found in the Kevin’s Green Heroes feature, which is a perennial favourite with visitors looking for ground-breaking, planet-friendly products. The Green Zone Theatre and Advice Hub is devoted to issues surrounding sustainability where you can discover how to make your home eco-friendly. You can enjoy talks and panel discussions from experts on topics such as how to plan an eco-build or refit a house, as well as get advice tailored to your project. Always popular is the Ask an Expert arena, where you can book to discuss your build and renovation plans on a one-to-one basis with specialists in architecture, construction, finance, interior design and more. The Grand
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Headline Partner:
Theatre is an entertaining and informative platform where you can hear from the likes of Kevin McCloud, Kunle Barker and various Grand Designers. And you won’t want to miss the Room Sets, where designers get the chance to display their creativity in overcoming an interior design challenge set by the organisers of the show. Finally, The Upcycling Hub is the place to find designers who are experts in turning objects and materials into beautiful furniture. You’ll even be able to buy or commission handmade pieces, as well as gain an insight into their craft through live demonstrations. With the dedicated Build, Kitchens & Bathrooms, Gardens and Interiors sections, there is more to look forward to than ever before at Grand Designs Live in 2022. For more information, visit Grand Designs Live at www.granddesignslive.com
FEATURE Images: © Carles Puig
TAKING A PAUSE WITH PUIG-MIR ARCHITECTS: CAL’ANDREU, LOCAL ESSENCE THE OLD MASÍAS OR COUNTY HOUSES REPRESENT AN ARCHITECTURAL LEGACY WITHIN THE CATALAN LANDSCAPE, THEY REMIND US OF A BY-GONE AGE AND THEIR SURVIVAL DEPENDS ON MAKING THEM HABITABLE TODAY. WITH CA L’ANDREU, A MASÍA THAT DATES FROM THE 15TH CENTURY LOCATED IN MARINA (ALELLA MUNICIPALITY), THE PUIG-MIR ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE CAME UP WITH A DOUBLE-REFURBISHMENT IN ORDER TO CREATE MULTI-FUNCTIONAL ACCOMMODATION AS WELL AS A PRIVATE RESIDENCE, FOLLOWING THE PREMISE OF RESPECTING THE BUILDING’S ORIGINS WITH THE LEAST IMPACT POSSIBLE. LOCALLY FOUND MATERIALS INSPIRED THIS PROJECT WHICH IS FURNISHED WITH THE SERENA AND NUS LAMPS AS WELL AS THE BODRUM TABLE, IN WALNUT WOOD, BY LET’S PAUSE. HOW DID THE IDEA FOR CA L’ANDREU COME ABOUT?
WHO IS BEHIND THE CA L’ANDREU PROJECT? The promoter of the Ca l’Andreu project is a family that is highly committed to the environmental and sustainable principles under the local economy umbrella. Their
preference for simplicity and all things authentic in natural and local materials is completely in line with our own project values. All that matters is that which is essential, what cannot be done without. DESCRIBE CA L’ANDREU IN THREE CONCEPTS? Sustainability Essential Proximity HOW DOES THE SETTING INFLUENCE THE DESIGN AND STRUCTURE OF THE MASÍA? The proximity to the Serralada de Marina mountain range park and its renowned “sauló” trails that are so typical of the area, together with the found hand made ceramic tiles, the south facing orientation and the Mediterranean light …it all came together to influence us with the selection of materials and the decision to make new openings and reorganise the plan. WHAT DO CA L’ANDREU AND LET’S PAUSE HAVE IN COMMON? Materials that smell of the countryside, the value of finding perfection in the ‘imperfection’ of its textures and colours, its calm and the love of Mother Nature. WHAT VALUES DO YOU THINK SHOULD THE DECORATIVE ELEMENTS REPRESENT? In practicing our work we don’t differentiate between architecture, interior design and decoration. Everything is the result of the same thinking in order to come up with the desired ambience. At Ca l’Andreu this course of action has been as simple as highlighting the local materials so that they age in a natural way with the passing of time.
https://letspause.es/en/
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Architect Projects
Ca l’Andreu is an original masía dating from the 15th Century. Back in 2011 the owners commissioned us with the complete refurbishment of the ground floor which was going to be let to visiting tourists, as well as a new type of meeting space for company events and experiences; at all times respecting the building’s heritage and with minimal environmental impact. They wanted an eco-masía that reflected their own values: sensitive to the land, as sustainable as practically possible; so we were delighted to get on board. Ca l’Andreu has views over the Mediterranean Sea in an extraordinary setting just 20 minutes from Barcelona city centre. Both the client as well as we ourselves, agreed that the character of the masía had to be highlighted and celebrated, respecting its origins and the found traditional materials: but with the best of modern comforts and under strict sustainable criteria.
After being very happy with the final results of the ground floor refurb the clients trusted us with the refurbishment of the first floor as a private living space for them which we recently completed and where we had the chance to incorporate some pieces from Let’s Pause.
PROJECT NEWS
BUILDING WORK COMPLETES AT FARMSTEAD COMMUNITY HUB Work on The Farmstead – the community hub at the new Linmere village being created near Houghton Regis – has been completed, with the internal fit-out now under way in preparation for its imminent opening. Parts of the Farmstead opened for visitors at the start of February, with the new café, dog groomer and natureinspired play park poised to open their doors. Work on the Farmstead was project managed by Gardiner & Theobald LLP and supervised by Ingleton Wood, with Ashe carrying out the design and build and play equipment created by TouchWood Play and Davis White who worked with the Duchess of Cambridge on her Chelsea Flower show garden. Property and construction consultancy Ingleton Wood was appointed to provide design services for the project. The three buildings making up the Farmstead are arranged around a central leafy courtyard with nature-themed play area, outdoor seating and bike storage. The large community hall, which can be divided into two, will be available for hire by local groups and those in the wider area for activities such as yoga, local interest societies and children’s clubs. The second building will consist of three retail units. The first to be signed for is a dog grooming parlour, Royals Dog Grooming, which has outgrown its garden cabin in Houghton Regis and is offering an expanded service to new Linmere residents and existing clients. The second will provide office space offering flexible co-working opportunities for residents and those living nearby. The other retail outlet will also reflect Linmere’s vision of creating a happy, healthy place which promotes loving outdoor living and enables residents to take part in daily activities.
Architect Projects
The third building is a café selling coffees and freshly prepared meals, many of which are created from locally grown produce, some on Linmere’s own allotments. Café in the Park also runs a bakery and will be baking fresh breads and cakes in its kitchen at Linmere. It will also see the creation of two new state of the art primary schools and an extension to Houghton Regis’ existing Thornhill Primary school. A ten-form secondary school will open in 2022/3.
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SUSTAINABLE DESIGN TRANSFORMS SCHOOL SPORTS HALL INTO MODERN EDUCATION SPACE Interdisciplinary design consultancy, BDP has completed the innovative transformation of a school sports hall in Rochdale to create an exciting suite of classrooms, dining and social spaces. The new facility will enable the Watergrove Trust to meet an urgent demand for school places and accommodate more teaching and associate staff jobs for the area. The ‘WaterSHED’ sports hall redevelopment project at Wardle Academy has transformed a dated hall on the school grounds into a test-bed for new forms of teaching and learning. Retaining and improving the existing structure
and using the most natural, sustainable materials, this is a truly sustainable, imaginative re-use of property assets that provides a vital, modern school facility for self-directed learning and cohesive teaching practices. Using innovative offsite construction techniques and standard material sizes, a multidisciplinary collaborative team from BDP was able to design new spaces into the existing floorspace, creating two flexible classrooms, a design technology studio, and a café area that will also be used for informal learning and events. This central space is animated by the ‘learning steps’ - a processional staircase with integrated seating, leading to a refurbished mezzanine level. This provides further space for dining as well as audience seating for presentations and performances. The use of low-carbon construction processes to create the WaterSHED also meant that students, apprentices and local people could all get involved in project, creating a groundbreaking space for the school and a new landmark building for the community. WaterSHED opened to students at the beginning of the January term.
PROJECT NEWS
ASSAEL ARCHITECTURE RECEIVES GREEN LIGHT ON STAINES PLANNING DECISION On behalf of their client Inland Homes, Assael Architecture has won the appeal for a residential planning application for Elmsleigh Road, in Staines-upon-Thames, Spelthorne, following a previous rejection in June 2021. Working closely with Inland Homes, an established specialist in brownfield regeneration, the £30 million project will transform the currently unused site into a vibrant and well-connected destination of high-quality homes alongside dedicated amenity space and enhanced public realm. The new scheme will consist of two mid-rise buildings, providing 206 sustainable homes, and reconnecting a currently undervalued area of the town centre into a dynamic and thriving extension of the high street. By facilitating pedestrian access, the development becomes permeable to the wider community, creating destination points and travelling routes, whilst prioritising pedestrians to create a safe and positive environment. In addition to providing quality homes with 100% balcony provision, the buildings are connected by a landscaped podium at the first floor, providing residents with generous additional shared amenity spaces. Overall, 70 homes will be affordable, of which 65% of homes will be provided at affordable rent, and 35% at shared ownership.
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Architect Projects
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SHOW PREVIEW: FUTURESCAPE SPRING 2022 The green shoots of FutureScape Spring are ready to burst into 2022, with its fullest programme yet and its industry impact ready to flourish. Driving the Spring landscape calendar forward, FutureScape Spring 2022 returns on Tuesday 15 March 2022 at Sandown Park. The one-day intense hit of all that is new and inspiring for your landscape construction, design, maintenance and supply business, FutureScape Spring 2022 takes its place once again at its Surrey racecourse home. The FutureScape team has hand-picked another impressive array of landscape
innovation in its products, exhibitors, seminars, speakers, connections, services and support potential.
softworks, hard landscape and aftercare – design and delivery – as well as business, industry and the broader issues facing you and your organisation A palette of panellists and speakers ready to shoot from the hip – new content, new faces, new voices, new perspectives and an outlook to take your business forward.
Paving the way and planting the seeds of your landscape designs and plans for 2022 and beyond, FutureScape Spring 2022 will include:
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That’s FutureScape Spring 2022 – a springboard for you to meet and exchange honest opinions, network with professionals who are just like you and absorb new perspectives from those who offer a different outlook, with different skills and business approaches.
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Over 100 exhibitors, each with pinpoint relevance to every key element of UK landscaping – an unrivalled showcase of landscaping and horticultural supply. Debates to challenge and charge the liveliest of conversations on topics across
Created with the landscaping community at its core, this next FutureScape event will continue to support you and your colleagues in connecting with potential collaborators, clients, suppliers and landscape professionals.
Architect Projects
Join the UK landscape community at FutureScape Spring on Tuesday March 15, 2022 at Sandown Park Racecourse. Free to attend for all those involved in the landscaping industry, register early to secure your place. For more information visit: www.futurescapeevent.com
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DOUBLE SIDED, ACID ETCHED DECORATIVE GLASS We are pleased to announce this new product
NOW IN STOCK
LATTICE
FROST • • • • • • • • •
Balustrades Walls / partitions Office enclosures Shower screens Interior / exterior doors 10mm thickness Low iron Toughened Laminated
MIRAGE Call us for more information 01708 374534 email sales@firmanglass.com or visit www.firmanglass.com Firman Glass, 19 Bates Road, Harold Wood, Romford, Essex RM3 0JH