Architect Projects - September 2023

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Featured

Puradies: Intertwining with nature 12-13, 14-15, 16

Omarama: A space of light 42-43, 44-45

GT 3 ARCHITECTS TEAMS UP WITH US HEAVYWEIGHT SASAKI TO DESIGN STRATEGIC ALLIANCE

Award-winning UK architecture practice

GT3 Architects has teamed up with USbased global design firm Sasaki to create a strategic alliance that brings together the skills and global expertise of more than 400 design specialists.

The powerful partnership aims to bring international perspective and experience to projects across multiple sectors – including sports and leisure, masterplanning, workplace design, landscape architecture, and more – combining expert sector knowledge and global capabilities.

Applying a creative, people-focused approach to UK design, projects will be delivered from GT3’s offices in the UK, in Nottingham and Newcastle-upon-Tyne, and Sasaki’s locations in Boston, Denver, New York and Shanghai.

Simon Dunstan, director at GT3 Architects, said: “This is a valuable alliance for both organisations that opens up numerous opportunities in the UK and the US. When we met with the Sasaki team, we were able to explore a number of potential projects and very quickly established a shared culture with lots of common values – the perfect bedrock for our alliance.

“The pandemic has clearly demonstrated that remote working is no barrier to collaboration, a concept that is at the heart of our relationship.

"We’re really excited to be working closely with the Sasaki team to share knowledge, research, expertise and staff as well as utilise technology and best practice to suit the specific needs of all our clients and projects.

“This announcement marks the culmination of extensive discussions and hard work behind the scenes and we’re looking forward to growing our presence in the UK and America – supporting our teams and clients along the journey.”

The strategic alliance brings a forwardthinking, global approach to projects, with GT3 and Sasaki clients benefitting from a fresh perspective and innovative design ideas. The firms both champion a holistic approach to the design of place and space that positions people at the heart of every project.

"Sasaki has an incredible 70-year legacy and global reputation, which gives new generations of leaders an amazing platform on which to grow our business,” said Sasaki CEO James Miner. “We continuously seek to balance our history with forward looking curiosity and innovation to remain relevant in today’s world. Our alliance with GT3 provides a great opportunity to bring new voices and expertise to clients in a way that we could not before. We're excited to work alongside GT3 to grow our collective portfolio in the UK, and collaborate with them here in the US and beyond."

CPMG APPOINTS

ASSOCIATE IN BIRMINGHAM AMID NATIONAL GROWTH

National award-winning architectural and interior design practice CPMG has appointed an accomplished associate who will be helping to meet demand for services offered by its Birmingham studio.

Derek Lee joins CPMG having worked in Birmingham for local and national clients for more than ten years. With extensive experience in the education and residential sectors, his expertise is well suited to CPMG’s client base and core sectors.

Joining director Anil Parmar at CPMG’s Birmingham studio, Derek will be supporting with work spanning various industries but with a particular focus on healthcare, commercial, advanced manufacturing and industrial.

In the surrounding area, CPMG has recently been appointed via Perfect Circle as architect on the Walsall, Guildhall project, the Grade II listed building is set to be revamped in order to become a Creative Industries Enterprise Centre. CPMG is also currently designing the George Betts School in Smethwick and New Oscott School in Sutton Coldfield.

Derek is not CPMG’s only evidence of recent growth. In Nottingham, Jonathan Nimer has arrived as a Part 2 architectural assistant at the practice’s national headquarters, and in the capital, Abissha Suthanthirakumaran has returned to the practice as a Part 2 architectural assistant.

KAZ FOR PRESIDENT

GEZE UK MD Kaz Spiewakowski looks to focus on education and further developing relationships with RIBA and overseas members as well as ensure value for members as he takes over the two-year presidency of the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI). Kaz has already held the vice president role for the last two years working closely with outgoing president Mario Del-Signore.

The focus on education will look at improving the process for developing new material and how it is delivered. The GAI will explore getting the content validated and third party audited as well as looking at producing new content.

Said Kaz ‘I am delighted to be taking over the presidency of the Guild. CPD and compliance is vital for our members - becoming trained

and demonstrating competence. The work done over the past few years has increased the focus on professionalism, particularly the REG AI status and the aim is to continue that.’

Simon Forrester, Chief Executive of the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers added ‘We are delighted that Kaz has taken over the role of GAI President. We have a long association with GEZE with many of their team holding GAI qualifications or sitting on Guild committees. We wish Kaz a successful presidency.’

Architectural Ironmongers provide specialist scheduling service and technical support for architects and contractors, specifying and installing products that are fit for purpose whilst ensuring compliance to the many standards.

(L to R): Outgoing President Mario Del-Signore hands over the presidency to Kaz Spiewakowski.

To find out more about GEZE and its comprehensive range of automatic and manual door closers and window technology products email info.uk@geze.com or visit www.geze.co.uk.

ARCHITECTURE PRACTICE OPENS SIXTH NATIONAL OFFICE

Due to recent successes, national architects, GSSArchitecture, have opened their sixth office in the centre of Leeds.

The practice, whose head office is in Northamptonshire, has had a presence in Yorkshire for over 13 years, with a studio based in Harrogate. Following the successful opening of their Leeds Collaboration Hub in 2022, the Practice has now opened a permanent studio on Park Row in the city centre.

The fifth-floor office space provides a modern and flexible working environment that promotes collaborative working; something that GSS hold highly as one of their key company values.

Jonathan Hunter, Partner at GSS, said, “We are pleased to have opened our new studio in Leeds. We have developed strong working relationships with clients and consultants in the Yorkshire region over the years and we are keen to build upon these. We have had some great feedback from our team about their new workspace and are looking forward to greeting clients in the new space.”

In addition to their studio in Leeds, the GSS Harrogate studio has relocated to a new premises in a more central location. The studio offers more modern, flexible workspace and is situated on Station Parade, just a 10-minute walk away from the town centre.

The Yorkshire team are currently involved in a range of exciting local schemes, including the

refurbishment of the Dower House Hotel in Knaresborough, as well as many other Inn Collection schemes including the Wateredge and Waterhead hotels. The team is also working on schemes with York University and North Yorkshire Council.

With offices in Kettering, Gloucester, Harrogate, Leeds, Milton Keynes, and Newcastle, and with a team of 70+ people, GSS have grown significantly in recent years, with bigger and more flexible spaces also secured for the Newcastle and Milton Keynes teams.

Founded over 144 years ago, GSSArchitecture have an extensive range of projects in a variety of sectors and have worked with hundred of clients and consultants across the country.

IF WALLS COULD TALK

By Jonathan Reed,

The design flexibility of metal mesh enables architects and designers to achieve a dramatic visual impact. Jonathan Reed, Managing Director at Amron Architectural explains how metal mesh has become the preferred design solution when applying an internal wall system.

From commercial office buildings to schools and colleges, metal mesh is becoming increasingly popular as a creative solution in order to maximise the interiors of a space. Metal wall panels provide flexibility in design, making it easy for architects and designers to meet their unique design specifications. The panels create a beautiful appearance for internal applications, especially when finished with colour and texture.

All Systems go!

In most cases, metal wall panels can be installed more quickly than brick, granite, and other materials. They’re typically lighter and therefore require less support structure. The wall panels can be installed from vertical to horizontal to angles, and even curved panels on the walls.

The AW400 Series from Amron is an angle framed metal panel system mechanically

fixed to angle support brackets, allowing the designer to incorporate bespoke metal mesh and profile designs with a full palette of finishes and textures. This series is typically manufactured from aluminium, steel or yellow metals with the infill panels being welded into angle frames or if perforated can be folded for a more seamless look - then finished as required.

Product in practice

Fareham College has invested £1.4million into a new, state-of-the-art ‘Energy Hub’ facility that will support the development of young people in the area. The college wanted to transform their outdated and abandoned sports hall into a vibrant and exhilarating space that incorporated cuttingedge technology into its design. Featuring electric and hybrid charging stations, ground and air heat pumps, and smart home technologies, this new space is known as the ‘Energy Hub’.

This new facility will pave the way for future generations by delivering the best education

and technology resources for those looking to explore a career in construction and engineering. The aim of this new hub is to educate, mentor, and upskill college students for careers in engineering and construction.

Spread across a 9,000-sq-ft space, the design reinforces the renewable energy ethos and encourages sustainability. The design intent emphasised the need to create a sizeable open-plan environment that is inspirational, collaborative, and practical in order to fulfil future demand and industry needs.

We were approached by Scape Construct and asked to consult on a suitable solution for the walls. The team at Fareham College wanted textured and vibrant wall panels with lights fitted to them in a zigzag pattern. Our AW400 series in mild steel was specified as the most suitable product for this project.

The angle-framed metal panel system was fitted with our Zircon RB35 expanded mesh and was powder coated in zinc yellow, which was a direct match to the floor colour. We supplied 25 panels for the walls, plus an additional 3 panels for the charging bay walls and ceiling. The whole design of the ‘Energy Hub’ focused on a yellow framework with an industrial look incorporated throughout the design. The striking and bold design oozes creativity.

www.amronarchitectural.co.uk

The whole design of the ‘Energy Hub’ focused on a yellow framework with an industrial look incorporated throughout the design. The striking and bold design oozes creativity.

Managing Director at Amron Architectural

Project: Fareham College, Surrey

Application: Interior Walls

Product: AW400, Zircon RB35 in RAL 1018

IF WALLS COULD TALK.

Explore our full range of Internal Wall Systems on our website.

SHOULD BRITISH DEVELOPERS BE LOOKING TO THE SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE FOR BUILDING DESIGN INSPIRATION?

Climate scientists expressed shock at the UK’s smashed temperature record, with the heat soaring above 40 degrees Celsius for the first time ever last year. As summers become hotter, it is increasingly crucial to prioritise comfortable and energy-efficient housing. Effective house design adaptations can help mitigate the risk of heat-related illnesses and ensure the safety and well-being of occupants during peak temperatures. With summers getting hotter and health and safety risks increasing, should the British built environment sector be looking across the equator to the Southern hemisphere for architectural design inspiration?

If our climate is changing, our house designs shouldn’t remain the same. By adapting customary British house designs we can help mitigate heat gain, improve occupant comfort, improve energy efficiency and help occupants to save on energy bills. This begs the question, what design features could British developers be borrowing from developers who are skilled in designing homes for hotter climates?

Thermal mass of building materials

Look abroad to warmer countries and it’s typical to see homes that utilise features such as exposed concrete soffits and tiled floors. Likewise, their homes built from materials with high thermal mass, such as concrete, stone and clay. These materials are used to absorb and store heat during the day and release it slowly at night when temperatures are cooler. This helps maintain a more stable indoor temperature.

Newer British homes, particularly those constructed with lightweight materials and modern construction methods tend to have

lower thermal mass. British housebuilders should employ high thermal mass materials, such as concrete, stone, or clay, as they can absorb and store heat during periods of high temperature, helping to regulate indoor temperatures. They act as a thermal buffer, absorbing excess heat during the day and releasing it slowly at night or during cooler periods. This helps to stabilise temperature fluctuations and reduce the need for active cooling systems in hot weather.

External shading

External shading devices such as awnings, pergolas and lattices are commonly used to block direct sunlight while still allowing air circulation in the southern hemisphere. These devices can be placed over windows, doors, and outdoor living spaces to reduce heat gain and create shaded areas. These are an excellent option as they create a significant impact on indoor temperatures without changing the look of the home drastically.

Home orientation and layout

In the southern hemisphere, houses are typically designed to maximise shade and minimise direct exposure to the sun’s intense rays. The orientation of the house is crucial, with the main living areas facing away from the sun’s path during the hottest times of the day. Additionally, the layout of the house often includes courtyards or central open spaces to facilitate natural ventilation.

Ventilation

Natural ventilation is crucial for cooling homes in hot climates, and it is something the UK should also consider in its house design. In hotter climates, developers typically incorporate features such as large

windows, operable vents, and high ceilings to promote airflow. This allows hot air to escape and cool air to enter, creating a cooler indoor environment.

Moreover, windows are strategically positioned to allow for cross ventilation and natural cooling. Placing windows on opposite walls creates a breeze pathway, facilitating air movement. Additionally, windows may be designed with features like operable louvres or shutters to control the amount of sunlight and heat entering the house.

Energy efficient cooling systems

While passive cooling techniques should be taken as first steps, we should acknowledge that energy efficient cooling systems may be needed to provide additional comfort when temperatures peak. However, taking energy efficiency and sustainability into consideration, we should strive to use systems that consume less energy compared to traditional air conditioners.

Landscaping

Landscaping is an underrated aspect of house design relative to keeping homes cool in the UK. Carefully planned landscaping can significantly contribute to minimising temperatures. Planting trees, especially on the west and east sides, provides natural shade and helps reduce solar heat gain. Additionally, water features like fountains or pools can also contribute to evaporative cooling. Landscaping considerations may prove especially beneficial to urban developers in combatting the urban heat island effect.

Climate-resilient homes are necessary now

With homes becoming increasingly uninhabitable during the summer months, it is essential British developers take building design inspiration from the Southern hemisphere. Incorporating features such as external shading devices, proper home orientation and layout, effective ventilation and building materials with a higher thermal mass can significantly improve the cooling performance of homes in the UK. By embracing design strategies and technologies from countries with experience in hot climates, British developers can create homes that are better equipped to handle hotter summers, reduce energy consumption, enhance occupant comfort and contribute to a more sustainable built environment.

While passive cooling techniques should be taken as first steps, we should acknowledge that energy efficient cooling systems may be needed to provide additional comfort when temperatures peak.

THINK DUNE EVO, SAY ARUBA

Zentia celebrates in style as popular Dune eVo family is renamed Aruba.

Leading UK ceilings manufacturer Zentia has refreshed one of its most popular ranges of ceiling tiles with a new name, including a new high humidity variant.

As part of the company’s transition from Armstrong to Zentia, Dune eVo will now be known as Aruba, a name inspired by the white sandy beaches of the Caribbean and the finely sanded finish of the tile’s surface.

The new high humidity variation is being introduced to support the product family’s flexibility. Aruba hH offers stability at humidity levels of up to 99% RH, making it particularly ideal for high humidity areas such as changing rooms.

It also offers Class C sound absorption and good sound attenuation for excellent acoustic performance.

This new addition sits alongside Aruba, Aruba Max and Aruba dB, each bringing their own performance capabilities. Together, they deliver a complete acoustic ceiling solution with the benefits of a continuous face pattern across entire projects.

As a product family, Aruba offers a tile for any environment including education and healthcare through to commercial, leisure, retail, and transportation – for either newbuild or refurbishment.

Graham Taylor, Sales and Marketing Director at Zentia, has been with the company for over 30 years and has been witness to the evolution of the original Dune product family as well as the journey from Armstrong to Zentia.

He comments: “The Dune range has been a stalwart of the ceiling tile industry for even longer than I have been around. With its fresh bright surface finish it was a game changer when first launched to market in the early 1980s. Now, we are ready to unveil the

first Zentia version, taking the opportunity to reflect our transition from A to Z by renaming Dune to Aruba. Think Dune eVo, say Aruba.

‘It’s a product that has been trusted by generations of architects and installers alike and today, it’s still the reliable and versatile product it’s always been, but with a new name and some exciting family additions, many of which will be released over the coming months.”

This product range is a favourite with specifiers due to its optimum mix of acoustic and aesthetic performance, sustainability credentials and cost-effectiveness. The range gives architects three levels of acoustic performance, high levels of recycled content and 100% recyclability.

To celebrate the launch of the Aruba range, Zentia is running a competition to win £5,000 worth of holiday vouchers. Please see the Zentia website for full T&Cs and details on how to enter.

https://www.zentia.com/en-gb/thearuba-family/

FORTERRA SHORTLISTED FOR A THIRD OF BDA AWARDS

Building products manufacturer Forterra has been shortlisted for five of the 15 2023 Brick Development Association Awards.

Forterra has been recognised for its contribution in a wide range of projects resulting in being shortlisted in the Medium Housing Development, Urban Regeneration, Commercial, Education, and Sustainability categories.

The range of projects varies from new homes at The Tannery in Wiltshire which used Bamford Blend red clay brick to blend with the industrial and village aesthetic, to the modern student accommodation of Seren in Swansea which is clad in Forterra’s Carsington Cream, a handmade, low water absorbency brick.

The other projects nominated are The Hoxton, Shepherd’s Bush, the latest in The Hoxton’s series of open-house hotels which uses a blend of three red brick types to add richness to the façades, the Yoko Ono Lennon Centre at the University of Liverpool which also uses red brick

in alignment with The University of Liverpool’s original “red brick University” status, and Red Kite View in Leeds, part of a new generation of hospitals in the UK that will be able to operate to net zero carbon by being a fully electric building.

The variety of uses proves the versatility of clay brick as a building material, enabling old and new, industrial and domestic to seamlessly blend and enhance our built environment.

Caroline Wildman, Marketing Director at Forterra, said: “It’s fantastic to have so many of the fascinating projects we’ve been involved in highlighted by the BDA.

“As a leading British manufacturer of building products, we are proud to be involved in such a high calibre of buildings.”

The awards are set to be announced at an event at the Royal Lancaster Hotel on 8th November 2023, hosted by popular TV personality and architect George Clarke.

SCHÜCO EXCELLENCE AWARDS 10TH ANNIVERSARY WINNERS ANNOUNCED

Schüco UK & Ireland is delighted to announce the winners of its renowned Excellence Awards. The special anniversary event was held on the famous Cutty Sark in Southeast London, preceded by a river cruise along the Thames where guests were greeted by the raising of Tower Bridge. For the fourth successive year, the awards were presented by architectural designer and television presenter, Charlie Luxton.

Held in association with Architecture Today, the event is an established part of the industry awards calendar and this year, attracted its highest number of entries to date.

The awards celebrate the innovation and close collaboration between design teams and contractors that successful, high-calibre building projects demand. Judging is guided by four key criteria: creativity, innovation, technical skill and creative collaboration for each of the categories, with one Overall Winner announced.

For 2023, that honour went to Bath Schools of Art and Design at Bath Spa University by architects Grimshaw, in collaboration with specialist contractor Structura.

The project, which also took home the awards for best education building and sustainability, was part of the re-purposing of the Farrell/Grimshaw factory for Herman Miller, originally completed in 1976. It was purchased in 2016 by Bath Spa University to house the Bath Schools of Art and Design. The building sits within the World Heritage Site of Bath and was listed Grade II in 2013.

Circularity was at the core of the building’s restoration. Its modular façade system was refurbished with Schüco curtain walling and doors used to upgrade the building envelope, vastly improving its performance and longevity.

Each year the awards feature the sought-after People’s Choice award, voted for by attendees on the day. This year that accolade went to the International Rugby Experience. The “Cathedral to Rugby” in Limerick, Ireland, was designed by Níall McLaughlin Architects, working with specialist contractors Alutec Facades and KCC Architectural.

STREAMLIGHT TOWER: MERGING FORM WITH FUNCTION, INNOVATIVE FAÇADES FROM DEKTON

Set in the heart of London’s iconic Docklands, Streamlight Tower is the impressive new residential development from the Swan Housing Group and BLDA Architects Ltd, featuring over 4,600 panels of ventilated façades from Cosentino’s ultracompact surface, Dekton.

Undergoing large scale transformation in the 1980s and 90s, the Docklands were famously regenerated by the UK Government, converting derelict industrial space into a mixture of residential and commercial properties. The area today boasts a premium mix of thriving enterprise, luxury living quarters and vibrant community spirit. With exquisite views across the river and a stone’s throw from the iconic 02 Arena and Canary Wharf and the Olympic Village, Streamlight Tower is one of East London’s most substantial and sought after residential developments of the last few years.

Bespoke cladding excellence

Spanning over 9,000 sqm, standing over 269 ft high and with 24 floors of luxury apartments, it cuts a striking silhouette against the London skyline. Streamlight Tower’s skin is made up entirely by Dekton Eter Alberta and Sasea Alberta, bespoke cutto-size ID XGloss panels in 12mm thickness. Utilising Cosentino’s bespoke ID service to create an exclusive façade colour, Dekton ID XGloss helps the building to blend in seamlessly with its surroundings. Sleek, minimalistic and urban-industrial in style, XGloss’s beautifully dark hues and modern mirror finish elevate the tower’s aesthetic.

With innovative manufacturing processes that ensure tonal uniformity, visual continuity and a guarantee against colour deterioration, Streamlight Tower is as

visually impressive as it is functionally superior.

An under cut anchor system was used to fix the panels on the secondary support structure. The panels were pre-assembled with the anchors and hangers in a designated site area and then taken to the allocated area for installation. Feature projected frames were installed using mtred and chamfered corners on the front and rear elevations of the building providing an appealing visual appearance.

Technical specifications - ultracompact façades built to endure the elements

The paradigm shift led by contemporary architecture has placed greater emphasis on the importance of the façade. Recognition of structural stability, energy efficiencies and safety properties that facades bring, especially ventilated façades, it is unsurprising they were the chosen material for Streamlight’s entire exterior.

A 1/2 Fire Rate certified, Dekton façades provide maximum resistance to high temperatures. Dekton is non-combustible and features Protek, a fire-resistant reinforcing mesh, which means its surfaces have thermal conductivity properties that are three times lower than ceramic, natural stone or other cladding alternatives; thereby making them one of the safest choices for high-rise developments.

Unlike anything on the market, Dekton is an ultracompact surface created through a cutting-edge proprietary sinterisation, compaction, and drying process. This means it offers superior mechanical resistance, dimensional stability (even in thin thicknesses) and importantly, resistance to extreme conditions. Panels are heat, UV,

freeze and thaw resistant, with low water absorption to give unmatched durability.

In keeping with Cosentino’s wider commitment to sustainability, Dekton is a cradle to grave carbon neutral product, giving the whole Streamlight Tower development notably greener credentials. Cosentino have BREEAM and LEED certification available.

Dekton by Cosentino Certifications

Dekton has obtained the European Technical Assessment (ETA) 14/0413 document and CE marking as an external wall cladding for ventilated façades. Thanks to its properties, Dekton surface can be perfectly incorporated onto façades by means of different types of concealed stainless steel or aluminium fixings.

The ETA issued for Cosentino includes the characterisation and experimental evaluation of the Dekton surface for use as external wall cladding for façades: wind load resistance, impact resistance and reaction to fire, durability, and the characterization of the fixing components necessary for the surface to be conveniently incorporated onto façades. External cladding for ventilated façades with the CE marking offer performance that has been assessed by a third party and performance characteristics that have been confirmed and contrasted according to European methodologies.

For further information contact: Aaron Capon, National Facades Manager acapon@cosentino.com

Images: MK Facades & Higgins Construction

Photography: © Alex Filz

Puradies: INTERTWINING WITH NATURE

A breathtaking mountain backdrop, lush green meadows, a small lake and plenty of fresh air: All of this makes the Puradies nature resort in Leogang in Salzburger Land a haven of vitality, which NOA has expanded with the new spa themed around the elements of fire, water, earth and air.

The family run hotel with its 76 rooms and 14 chalets, laid out as a village, lives up

Project name Puradies

Typology Wellness

Location Leogang, Austria

Client Madreiter family

Intervention Architecture & Interior Design New construction

Construction start October 2022

Completion May 2023

Volume (GV) 7.860 m³

Surface area (GFA) 3.070 m²

Original text Barbara Jahn

Translations Landoor

Photographs Alex Filz

to its name: For those seeking relaxation and sports enthusiasts, the hotel offers heavenly facilities. Originally a farm house with guest rooms, it is now a hotel dedicated to ecotourism. The sustainable philosophy runs through the range of activities on offer, the cuisine and the architecture. Among its guests you will find passionate skiers, mountain bikers, hikers and families with children who enjoy scaling the mountain peaks.

This striking landscape was NOA’s focus from the very beginning of the design process. Prior to the recent extension, the hotel had a natural bathing pond with boardwalks, but no pools. Strong demand was ultimately the trigger for a completely new spa concept, which includes wellness and sports areas as well as the new in house restaurant Ess Enz.

SUBLIMITY WITHOUT ELEVATION

The new building, which now houses fitness and yoga rooms, lounging areas and relaxation rooms, its own children’s pool, an adult pool and the restaurant, is harmoniously embedded in the landscape despite its size and expanse. The floor plans are laid out in concentric rows, blending in with the natural topography. One centre faces the bathing lake and the other faces the hill on the south side. This creates two façades that, despite their different orientations, are in balance with each other and are inviting no matter which direction they are approached from. Green roofs blend seamlessly with the meadows, while below separate spaces have great views north and south and open up to maximise the enjoyment of the surroundings. The new wellness wing with its different spaces rises out of the ground like a gentle wave and disappears again into the meadow with its expressive peaked canopies. For the onlooker, the pastoral landscape with its endless expanse and tall grasses, which is so characteristic of this area, is preserved.

“Our idea was to integrate the new building as homogeneously as possible into the landscape and not to build a towering building.” - Gottfried Gruber, architect.

A lawn with raised beds, a column fountain made of Dorfer quartzite and an open-air fire pit extends between the main house and the new building, while underground the existing corridor that previously led to the beauty reception area has been maintained. This is the connecting point for access to the new wellness area. A new long corridor, whose interior design sets the mood for the four element experience, leads past treatment rooms to the sports and fitness room with a view of an inner courtyard with a rock garden. In the corridor itself, the elements of earth and air meet, rendered as a rough, surfaced wall in an earthy hue on one side and light linen fabrics on the opposite side of the window. The mineral, coarse plaster gives the passage tactility, while the light-flooded, lively textiles lend it a mystical air.

INSIGHTS, OUTLOOKS, VIEWS

After passing through, the guest is first welcomed by the fireplace lounge-a splitlevel room that connects the wellness area and the restaurant across levels. As the name suggests, the central element is an open, bowl-shaped hanging fireplace framed by a floor-to-ceiling wall artwork by a young local artist, Michael Lang. Seating cushions and plants give character to the room, which is lined with sisal rugs. Here, guests can relax with a drink and enjoy the view in the fiery, earthy ambience. The fireplace lounge leads to the new yoga room, which can also be used as another relaxation room with fold-out couches. A staircase leads up the gallery to the new restaurant.

The new building, which now houses fitness and yoga rooms, lounging areas and relaxation rooms, its own children’s pool, an adult pool and the restaurant, is harmoniously embedded in the landscape despite its size and expanse.

After passing through, the guest is first welcomed by the fireplace lounge-a split-level room that connects the wellness area and the restaurant across levels.

Continuing on the lower level, the passageway leads to the area with the children’s pool. Here the elements of earth and water meet. The eye is drawn first to the pool with its organic free form and a water slide, surrounded by intimate alcoves that invite relaxation and play. These are equipped with a wooden floor, deep seat cushions, loungers and armchairs, covered with outdoor fabrics, as well as sisal carpets and fabric lamps with a shade made of yarn. A homely, cosy character and a fascinating play of light and shadow give the room character. Directly above the pool are metal suspensions for hanging plants. Outside is an area with tables, sheltered from the wind and sun, with a lawn extending out towards the swimming pond.

“In the interior, we played with the four elements: fire, air, earth and water are reflected in different forms in each of the rooms.”– Regina Traar, interior designer.

Past the dressing rooms and sanitary facilities, the wellness guest reaches the main pool, which continues outside. In addition to the numerous lounging options close to the floor, a slightly higher platform in the middle of the room is a special design highlight. From here, you can enjoy the view across the pool towards the swimming pond, enveloped by floating light linen curtains that change colour from light to darker towards the floor. The airiness is also

contrasted here with the rough-surfaced wall that runs continuously through the entire wellness area as a reference to the earth.

BETWEEN MOUNTAIN AND VALLEY VIEWS

On the upper floor, the new à la carte restaurant Ess-Enz is a true fusion of all elements. On the south side, the building is only apparent as architecture at this

level, albeit discreetly and still true to the terrain. The transparency provided by the large glass fronts and the recessed skylights create an airy lightness and allow impressive views of the pond, pool and sky. In the interior, organically shaped ceiling elements made of wood with hanging plants recreate the height profile of a mountain.

The lights laser-cut from wood, which seem to vibrate with the air circulation, further enhance the sense of weightlessness, while the compact seating islands, with fabric covers that are partly plain and partly patterned, keep the design grounded.

Adjacent to the restaurant, a sun terrace oriented in different directions offers a view of the mountain panorama and the meadows. The space is characterised by the tilted section of the projecting roofs, whose architectural silhouette changes constantly depending on the viewing angle. A very exciting open space is created between two closed structures, which strongly influences the perception of the landscape. Separated from the restaurant by the sun terrace are two other relaxation rooms, one with natural stone dedicated to the earth and the other with sisal surfaces open to the air. From here you can get return to the basement and the main pool. This completes the cycle of the wellness area at the point where the building merges back into the landscape.

In the interior, we played with the four elements: fire, air, earth and water are reflected in different forms in each of the rooms.

HEAVY TRENCH COVERS ARE HISTORY

Once in a while, a product will come along whose performance will drive a change in standards across entire industries. Like stainless steel. Or concrete. Or a trench cover which is over 80% lighter than the cast iron traditionally used, eliminating the need for costly specialised lifting equipment and the accompanying health and safety hazards. And, unlike metal and concrete infill covers, it’s engineered from a GRP composite material which is inert and impervious to corrosion from water and salt, as well as many other corrosive constituents.

Changing The Standard For Health & Safety

Fibrelite’s GRP composite trench and manhole covers are fast usurping metal and concrete covers to become the standard for high-performance industries like airports, commercial ports, leisure cruise terminals, military and defence, power generation (both traditional and renewables), and data centres, with companies like Magnox, The National Grid, all branches of the UK armed forces, and the world’s largest technology brands specifying Fibrelite covers for new build and retrofit projects.

Recent Installation: Port Cruise Terminal Upgrade, UK

As part of this Southern English Port’s cruise terminal upgrade project, Fibrelite was approached by the end-user, who was providing the Onshore Power Supply (OPS) systems. The port had previously considered installing cast iron trench covers to cover the 500 metres of trench housing the high-voltage power cables, but due to their weight (approximately 350 kg) and the additional associated overheads, they approached Fibrelite for a lighter alternative.

Fibrelite developed a bespoke covering solution made up of dozens of custom-sized

F900 (90-tonne) load-rated GRP composite trench covers in varying dimensions to suit the specified trench rebate dimensions, which were 65 kg, 82% (285 kg) lighter than the cast iron alternative. The Fibrelite covers are light enough for safe removal with the site dolly, complying with the load rating requirement of the site.

Recent Installation: Major Southern UK Airport Off-Apron Lighting Pit Upgrade

At one of the UK’s busiest airports, Fibrelite designed and manufactured a retrofit replacement for manhole covers over off-apron runway lighting pits where onsite staff have a window of approximately two minutes to effect maintenance and/or repair works between take-offs and

landings, including removing and replacing the F900 load rated access cover. The new lightweight GRP composite Fibrelite covers now allow safe, fast access to the lighting pits, maximising time for maintenance and minimising the risk of injury.

A Bright Future For Fibrelite

“I’ve been a part of the Fibrelite journey since 2011, and it’s been exciting to play a part in driving the upgrade from traditional concrete and metal trench and manhole covers to GRP composites in myriad industries, especially those where manual handling is critical, and seeing how we’ve helped increase health and safety and performance in those industries. We expect to see more and more industries make the upgrade to Fibrelite composite covers, especially in mission-critical areas.”

- Jo Stott, Marketing Director, Fibrelite

For more information, visit the Fibrelite website at www.fibrelite.com/ap

(Top) heavy metal trench covers come with inherent H&S hazards

(Bottom) lightweight Fibrelite GRP trench covers eliminate manual handling risks

Bespoke Fibrelite GRP composite trench covering solution, 82% lighter than cast iron

TURN A NEW LEAF

GEZE has launched Revo.PRIME a new premium solution for revolving doors. The new operator boasts an exceptionally low canopy height, narrow profile systems and an improved running performance.

Providing maximum transparency the Revo.PRIME is perfect for creating beautiful entrances and is especially suited for hotels and offices or any building where a statement entrance is required. With its class leading canopy height of just 75mm which houses the automation it ensures the minimal aesthetic whilst achieving excellent technical functionality. In addition the narrow profiles of just 60mm on the door leaf and side panel create a visually appealing entrance and increased transparency creating a light and airy entrance.

The Revo.PRIME is environmentally friendly as well, the operator saves up to 30 per cent in energy compared with its predecessor models which is achieved through the drive unit’s reduced power consumption.

Another benefit of the Revo.PRIME is its improved running performance. The brushless direct current motor (BLDC) with 1,000 Nm torque and the enlarged diameter of the door system, up to

SPECIFYING TIMBER CLADDING

The UK timber cladding market is growing, providing numerous design opportunities for buildings and homes, says Bernie Roberts, National Product Manager for Cladding Solutions at International Timber.

Introducing a biophilic aesthetic on the external facade of a building helps to blur the line between the indoors and outdoors, achieving a more organic flow between building and nature.

Species, profile and additional coating options are all things to consider when designing and using timber cladding. Softwood, hardwood and modified timbers all play a part in the design stage; we recommend a 10% wastage allowance on all cladding timbers and up to 15% on Thermowood, due to the brittle nature of the product.

Accoya® wood is fast becoming the material of choice for exterior cladding applications as its enhanced durability facilitates a lifespan of at least 50 years above ground, improving carbon sequestration potential and lowering lifetime material consumption versus other materials.

3,800mm, ensures ease of access and meets the demands of today’s architects and designers.

Available in 3 or 4 leaf versions and in a choice of gold, silver and black the Revo. PRIME can be networked to building automation systems via BACnet.

Andy Howland, Sales and Marketing Director of GEZE UK, said “The Revo.PRIME is an impressive edition to our range of automatic operators and one that is sure to delight architects and specifiers giving them the freedom to design stunning entrances.”

To find out more about the Revo. PRIME visit the dedicated Revo.PRIME microsite, see it in action on YouTube or email info.uk@geze.com.

For more information about GEZE UK’s comprehensive range of automatic and manual door closers visit www.geze.co.uk.

Here at International Timber, we recognise the challenges architects face in working to create safe, sustainable buildings. Offering a vast array of species and finished products, our specialist teams provide customers with total solutions, all managed to precise individual requirements.

International Timber also offers fully factory finished timber cladding with technical back-up to advise on the best products to use for each project. Visit www.internationaltimber.com or email info@internationaltimber.com.

Siberian Larch cladding used to create a beautiful waterside retreat. Image courtesy of Studio-Fuse.

GHELAMCO POLAND USES HID MOBILE ACCESS CONTROL AT FLAGSHIP DEVELOPMENTS IN WARSAW

International real estate investor and developer, Ghelamco, has standardized on HID mobile and physical access control solutions across its prestigious projects in Warsaw, Poland.

To support this, Ghelamco’s physical access control strategy includes HID Mobile Access and door reader solutions to guarantee secure entrance to offer maximum flexibility, easy management and deliver ‘future proof’ upgradeability at four sites in the capital:

• Warsaw Spire – a 2017 MIPIM award winning building standing at 220 meters with hyperboloid glass façade.

• The Warsaw HUB – finished in 2020, it features two 130-meter towers— purchased by Google for €583 million— along with a third building, home to two IHG Group hotels and a conference center.

• Warsaw UNIT – completed in 2021 and 202 meters high, it is one of the most technologically advanced and green buildings in Europe, using 30% less energy compared with similar developments.

• The Bridge – a new skyscraper being built, expected to open early 2025.

A variety of HID smart card readers have been installed supporting both traditional physical access cards and smart phones – the latest of which include the HID Signo range which leverage Seos® as the underlying credential technology.

“Innovation is our hallmark, so we want to use the latest technology on projects. Many of our tenants want mobile access today. Others, however, still prefer physical cards so selecting a vendor that supports both in tandem was imperative,” says Michał Nitychoruk, Ghelamco Poland’s communications manager.

An enterprise workplace platform has also been implemented from Signal OS, a Polish proptech software development company

founded by Ghelamco. It manages not only all physical access control systems in the buildings, but offers an easy-to-use way to integrate lift and parking systems, closedcircuit TV, visitor management and—in the future—other building management systems and sensors that monitor air and water quality, for example.

The benefits of using HID Mobile Access in combination with Signal OS have been immediate. It is enabling Ghelamco to attract new clients who want to lease space in green, efficient and technology-led buildings. Money is also saved as PVC access cards are not required. They are commonly lost—leading to an obvious security risk— and create waste and carbon emissions to manufacture.

“HID was chosen because it is the best-known physical access control company in the world. This gives us the confidence – a warranty if you like – that our tenants will accept their solutions when they move in. They trust HID because it is the market leader,” explains Łukasz Stępień, Ghelamco Poland’s project manager.

Looking to the future, Ghelamco intends to augment the access control approach in its estate by adding support for digital wallets to enhance speed of access and user convenience.

For more information visit www.hidglobal.com or www.signalos.io

Innovation is our hallmark, so we want to use the latest technology on projects. Many of our tenants want mobile access today.

Warsaw UNIT

The Warsaw HUB

Warsaw Spire

HARNESSING THE POWER OF PUSH TO HELP COMPANIES REACH SUSTAINABILITY GOALS

Founded over 100 years ago, Ojmar is the world-leading European manufacturer of innovative high performance electronic and mechanical locks combining exceptional customer service and uncompromising quality along with a responsiveness to client, customer and market demands. With a strong, determined approach to research and development, the company has over 80 patents around the world and constantly maintains and strengthens its challenge for providing specifiers with new solutions and value.

As part of the company’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability and the Circular Economy, not only does Ojmar source materials and critical

components locally reducing its carbon footprint but also manufactures in the EU using 100% recycled energy and has control of the whole process in-house, from design to production and commissioning.

Making use of advents in of RFID, NFC, wireless and proximity technology, the company is at the forefront of development. A good example is OTS® PULSE - the ultimate wireless networked locking solution that operates in highly secure cloud software. Designed for quick and easy installation, without complex and costly hardwiring - just a simple standard internet connection managed through a PC, tablet or smartphone. With a battery life of up to 10 years, it results in low environmental impact and reduced waste.

Now the company has gone one step further and has introduced the worlds-first intelligent locking system without batteries. OTS® 20 Batteryless is an innovative self-powered locking system producing its own energy when used. Harnessing ‘PUSH POWER’ to keep and maintain its internal power at a sustainable level, it is a revolutionary locking system designed to

reduce environmental impact by avoiding the production of batteries and waste, contributing to a lower carbon footprint. Furthermore, no battery means no battery replacement costs and reduced time and resources required on site for maintenance.

This advent of battery-free smart locking systems goes a long way to helping companies be more sustainable and reaching their carbon emission targets. As more and more companies pledge to hit near net-zero emissions global carbon footprint reduction, they also define their CSR Strategies to ensure minimal environmental impact and policies such as sourcing local materials and reducing energy and waste feeds into that demand.

In the commercial environment, hybrid working has continued to be the standard work practice for most businesses in the UK. Workspaces have changed and the corporate world has adapted to this more dynamic and fluid way of working, with increased hot-desking and a decline of the traditional one-person, one-desk policy. This has led to an increased demand for employee lockers to have a space where they can store their personal and work items to feel involved with a sense of belonging.

More information on locking solutions along with samples, case studies and technical guidance are available from ojmar.com or look for Ojmar on NBS Source.

OTS® 20 Batteryless is an innovative selfpowered locking system producing its own energy when used.

DIAMIK GLASS LAUNCHES NEW RANGE OF ECOROK™ SUSTAINABLE SURFACES

Yorkshire-based sustainable work surface manufacturer Diamik Glass has announced the launch of its 2023 range of trademark ecorok™ surfaces, made from 85% recycled glass.

ecorok™ surfaces can be used for a wide range purposes including worktops, splash backs, table tops, tea points, reception desks and much more. Created by the expert team at Diamik Glass, the method for creating ecorok™ has been honed over four years to create sustainable, hardwearing and luxury work surfaces.

ecorok™ is crafted using waste glass that would otherwise have gone to landfill, where it would take up to 4,000 years to break down. The glass is sourced responsibly from businesses within a 10-mile radius of the company’s headquarters in Leeds and then crushed down, sized and colour sorted ready for use. Ecorok ™ is created using unique recipes for each design and set in specially-adapted solvent-free resins to create a solid sheet.

Handmade in Leeds, using a range of glassware products allows the experts at Diamik Glass to create different colourways for a unique and bespoke finish. Being made to specification for each commission means each carefully crafted sheet of ecorok™ produces virtually no waste, making it a more efficient product for work surfaces, as well as the only truly sustainable option.

To date, Diamik Glass has worked with architects, joiners and construction professionals to secure impressive contracts with brands including Legal &

General, Cambridge University, WPP HMRC, Mastercard and Bombay Sapphire among many others.

Michael Pickup, MD of Diamik Glass, added: “I’m thrilled to be bringing the 2023 ecorok™ range to the market. Since launching our business just four years ago, we’ve worked on both commercial and domestic projects and have received huge praise from customers for the quality, durability and aesthetic of our sustainable surfaces. We’re looking forward to working with more partners and fabricators to bring ecorok™ to an even wider customer base, and we are excited for what the future holds!”

For more information about Diamik Glass, please visit: www.diamikglass.co.uk.

THE POWER OF PAINT: COLOURING AND FUTURE PROOFING COMMERCIAL BATHROOMS

Kathryn Lloyd, colour specialist at Crown Trade, explains how appropriate paint choice can create commercial bathrooms which are both full of character and can withstand frequent use.

Bathrooms are increasingly becoming a vital part of buildings aesthetic identities. In bars and music venues particularly, the bathroom has become a place where people expect awe and glamour.

The Ivy uses colour brilliantly to create a bathroom that is awe inspiring and practical, while The Nopi in Soho uses full length mirrors and a striking colour palette to create that perfect photo moment, and Sketch brings novelty with rainbow lighting and vibrant colours that ensure the bathroom will be a taking point of customers visit.

In all these venues, visitors want a comfortable space where they can escape the noise and, perhaps, take a mirror selfie to commemorate their night out.

Paint is an essential decorative tool here. In combination with other features, a well chosen paint colour can create spaces that are stylish, comfortable and luxurious.

Stylish colour choice

Colour is vital part of how bathrooms communicate their functions. All colours in a bathroom sit somewhere on a spectrum from red to blue or, in other words, hot to cold. These associations exist everywhere but are especially powerful in a bathroom setting, where they’re reinforced by the colour coding of taps.

Historically, cool and clinical, white and blue palettes have been the norm for commercial bathrooms. However, warmer palettes are increasingly coming into fashion, with people seeking a natural, less clinical bathroom aesthetic.

At Crown, as part of our Colour Insights, we’ve devised a palette titled Cultivate, which is a good example of how this can be

achieved. It blends earthy reds and pinks, with tonal taupes to create a naturally luxurious retreat.

Paint is rarely the star feature of a bathroom. Rather, it is a great complement to other features, like tiles and ironwork. Pairing light, fun pastel tones with colourful tiles, are a feature is increasingly coming into vogue. Likewise, coloured grout is increasingly popular to contrast or complement a design, and the paint colour can be matched to further create a cohesive scheme.

Ceilings, although often overlooked are incredibly important when it comes to bathroom design.

They’re a place where paint takes the spotlight and should be an important consideration when it comes to the bathroom. Tiles won’t typically be used on the ceiling so making the right paint choice is crucial here. Using soft neutral colours, like ferns and creams on the fifth wall, can have a cocooning effect, enhancing the comfort and tranquillity of the space.

It’s also worth noting that matt finishes tend to work best for bathrooms. The lack of glare and distortion is helpful for creating a luxury, spa-like feel. Crown Trade’s Clean Extreme Mould Inhibiting Scrubbable Matt Paint can allow designers to achieve this finish. It can also make the bathroom easier to maintain, due to its built-in fungicidal properties which combat build-up of mould and mildew.

In combination with other features, a well chosen paint colour can create spaces that are stylish, comfortable and luxurious.

TRAVIS PERKINS PLC CONFIRMS PROGRESS AGAINST PUBLISHED CARBON REDUCTION TARGETS

INHABIT AMPLIFIES SUSTAINABLE BUILDING DESIGN CAPABILITIES WITH WMEBOOM ACQUISITION

Inhabit, a leading provider of designled engineering services for the built environment and member of the Egis Group, is delighted to announce the successful acquisition of WMEboom, an award-winning environmental design and engineering company based in London.

Inhabit’s capabilities in façades, sustainability, structure, and environmental design, coupled with WMEboom’s expertise in sustainable building performance will enable the company to offer clients a complete suite of services which improve the embodied and operational carbon of buildings - from outside the building envelope all the way through the inside of the building.

WMEboom’s highly skilled team of mechanical, electrical, public health and controls engineers are already fully integrated into Inhabit’s London office with the teams actively delivering projects together.

Tony Alvaro, CEO of Inhabit, said: “This acquisition signifies a key milestone in our exciting journey towards becoming a holistic specialist solution provider.

"With the integration of WMEboom, Inhabit now delivers expert analysis of building performance as a whole.

“The acquisition significantly strengthens the capability of our UK and Europe teams,

who can also leverage the expertise and support of our global teams to deliver sustainable building performance design.

"I’m delighted to have WMEboom with us and look forward to delivering ambitious environmental and low-carbon design together.”

WMEboom’s expertise in net zero carbon and building performance will support Inhabit’s design studio in addressing the industry’s challenges in meeting 2050 carbon targets and transitioning to a circular economy.

This interdisciplinary approach will enhance the ‘golden thread’ related to the Building Safety Act and assist in the industry’s necessary cultural shift towards safer, better performing, sustainable buildings.

Travis Perkins plc, which is a leading partner to the construction industry and the UK’s largest distributor of building materials, has announced that the Group has continued to make good progress against its Science Based Targets initiative (‘SBTi’) accredited, 1.5 degree-aligned carbon reduction targets.

Earlier this year, the Group confirmed that decarbonisation of the industry was the main strategic sustainability priority in response to its most recent stakeholder materiality assessment. As a result, efforts are focused on ensuring the Group is at the forefront of driving sustainability in its operations and supply chain to optimise sustainability in its products and service offering for customers.

The Group has made key progress in the following areas:

1. Upskilling of colleagues to help customers make more sustainable choices

2. Improved carbon data for customer deliveries

3. Accelerated decarbonisation of the Group’s fleet and buildings

4. Development of more sustainable products and services for customers

To support the retrofitting of homes, which is vital to achieve the UK’s climate change goals, the Group is supporting The National Retrofit Hub, to amplify industry collaboration and enable best practice sharing.

The Group is further convening the industry to drive change through a National House Builders Forum, where customers and suppliers are working collaboratively to address the shared challenges associated with decarbonisation.

SKA ASSESSOR APPOINTED AT NATIONAL ARCHITECTURE PRACTICE

THIRD EPD RENEWAL FOR INTERPON GIVES TRANSPARENCY FOR THOSE IN THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT SEEKING SUSTAINABLE POWDER COATING SOLUTIONS AND PARTNERS

Interpon powder coatings from AkzoNobel have received an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) for a third time, confirming the company’s continued commitment to full transparency in the sustainability of its products and aligned to its own sustainability goals including a 50% carbon footprint reduction by 2030.

An EPD is an independently verified assessment of a product's environmental impact across its whole lifespan, from initial production to end-of-life disposal or recycling. It contributes

As the construction industry is responsible for 25% of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions, national practice GSSArchitecture is continually striving to help reduce these statistics and as part of a wider sustainability strategy, have appointed an in-house SKA Assessor.

Eleanor Lee has been appointed as the SKA assessor for the Practice, having successfully completed her SKA training and assessment modules earlier this month.

SKA assessments are a sustainable initiative focused on the refurbishment and remodelling of existing buildings, which is a crucial part of the sustainability strategy that GSS promote with their clients.

The assessments themselves help building owners, landlords and tenants assess remodelling and refurbishment projects against a series of sustainability

best practice criteria. As an organisation, GSS is committed to promoting the efficiencies and sustainable outcomes that can be achieved by reusing or repurposing existing built assets.

GSS are involved in numerous fit-out and refurbishment projects across the country, and, because of the appointment of an in-house SKA Assessor, they can enhance their client offer by supporting sustainable assessments whilst also delivering effective designs.

The SKA assessment has a strong focus on realistic steps to improve environmental impact, as well as health and wellbeing measures, and is a Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors initiative. Eleanor has already led the client and design team at Durham University through two schemes, successfully achieving a bronze and silver certification respectively.

Alpaca Fawn A30 Just Breathe A06 Silver Lining A20

BAXI MD APPOINTED NEW CHAIR OF THE HHIC

Karen Boswell OBE, Managing Director of Baxi UK and Ireland, has been appointed the new chair of the Heating and Hotwater Industry Council (HHIC).

Succeeding the outgoing chair Steve Keeton, Director of External Affairs and Future Portfolio at Vaillant, Karen is the first female chair of the HHIC and is set to lead the membership following the Council’s recent AGM.

Since joining Baxi as Managing Director almost three years ago, Karen has successfully led Baxi at the forefront of innovations in low carbon technology and installer support as the heating industry looks to decarbonise.

This includes recent work with Government to make training more affordable and attractive to installers through the Heat Training Grant, which was launched this month.

Karen also brings rich experience as a leader in the engineering space across multiple industries – most notably the rail industry heading up Hitachi Rail’s UK division.

In her new role as chair of the HHIC, she brings strong focus on business improvement and accelerating growth, is passionate about equality, diversity and inclusion and has extensive experience in manufacturing, supply chain and customer service.

As the heating industry continues its progress decarbonisation and develop the skills required to achieve it, Karen’s leadership experience and expertise are set to drive forward the HHIC’s focus on advancing the heating industry to net zero.

HARLEY HADDOW BOLSTERS SUSTAINABILITY DIVISION WITH NEW DIRECTOR APPOINTMENT

Harley Haddow has further strengthened its sustainability offering with the appointment of a new Associate Director.

Stephen Gallacher has relocated from London to Edinburgh to join the multi-disciplinary engineering consultancy, which he previously worked for earlier on in his career.

He brings with him more than 16 years of experience and will support the recently launched Building Performance and Sustainability division which was previously created to meet significant demand for Net Zero services, with representatives in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Manchester and London.

Stephen joins Harley Haddow from Introba and has worked on a wide range of projects in his career to date. This included the development of low and zero carbon strategies for the reservicing of Grade I listed Buckingham Palace during feasibility and concept design to provide heating and cooling and reduce energy consumption.

With particular expertise in developing Net Zero and decarbonisation strategies, sustainability visioning and Passivhaus among others, he is looking forward to making his mark at Harley Haddow.

Stephen said: “I am pleased to be heading back to Harley Haddow and getting the opportunity to support and grow the Building Performance and Sustainability division further is fantastic. Knowing the people from having previously worked for the company, and the culture there, it was an easy decision for me, particularly with the great work that is being done.

"Having worked in London for the past ten years, I am looking forward to bringing everything I have learnt there and applying it to my work in Scotland and across all our office bases, particularly at such a crucial crossroads for sustainability within the industry.”

Marc McLuskey, director at Harley Haddow added: “We are delighted to welcome Stephen back to Harley Haddow, at a time of great momentum for us as a consultancy, particularly with the recent launch of our new division.

"The in-depth knowledge and expertise that Stephen brings having worked within London’s built environment is of huge benefit to us and will help put us ahead of the curve in not just Scotland but across the wider UK. As we continue to enhance our sustainability offering across all our bases, we are excited for what lies ahead for us.”

ROBBIE BELL RETURNS TO HEATING AND PLUMBING

SECTOR AS NEW CFO OF HIGHBOURNE GROUP

Highbourne Group has appointed Robbie Bell, who spent almost 10 years in a similar role at Screwfix earlier in his career, as its new CFO.

Robbie replaces Interim CFO Harvey Ainley and begins work immediately for the UK leader in the plumbing, heating and renewable energy market.

Highbourne’s brand portfolio includes some of the biggest names in the sector, including City Plumbing, The Bathroom Showroom, PTS, DHS, The Underfloor Heating Store, Plumbworld and PlumbNation.

CEO Dave Evans said: “We are delighted to welcome Robbie Bell to our Senior Leadership Team. We believe he is the perfect appointment as we look to lead industry change

and continue to grow our business. Those are things that require an experienced CFO capable of making a big impact, and Robbie brings this.”

Robbie joins from Holland & Barrett, where he was also CFO, having held similar roles at Welcome Break and a number of large retailers.

During his time at Screwfix, he saw trade counters grow from 50 to 600, overseeing sales growth of over £1bn.

He said: “It’s an exciting time to be re-joining the sector and I’m looking forward to supporting Highbourne in their strategic ambitions.

"I have already been impressed by Highbourne’s business plans and by CEO Dave Evans, HIG Capital and the Senior Leadership Team.”

DMWR ARCHITECTS

SENIOR DIRECTOR APPOINTED AS COMPLIANCE INSPECTOR

Senior Director, John Neale has been appointed as Compliance Inspector as part of the Government’s Building Safety Act to improve competence levels and accountability in the sector.

The role further strengthens DMWR’s expertise in the cladding and remediation of non-compliant buildings for G15 Housing Associations, private developers, tier 1 contractors and resident groups.

As Compliance Inspector, John will act independently of the contractor and design team to perform regular site inspections to ensure that the new cladding installation is consistent to the design specification and requirements set out in the works contracts and that the project is being completed in accordance with the project documents, the guidance and good industry practice.

John Neale, Senior Director for DMWR Architects comments, “As a practice we have built up a strong reputation for offering a specialist and expert service to assist in the recladding and remediation of noncompliant buildings. This will continue and my new appointment will add to this offering, by providing an independent service that is vitally needed within the industry. The safety of homeowners and leaseholders is the highest priority, and my new role will help address this by overseeing the safety and performance of all buildings with a special focus on high rise buildings.”

The Compliance Inspector will be responsible for the design and delivery inspections of the project, ensuring the work that is being carried out is compliant with the Guidance and will provide Homes England a report within a month following cost consultation certifying each of the following milestones – the point at which cumulative spend against total eligible costs approved to date exceeds 20%; 40%; 60%; 80% and 100%.

NEW REPORT REVEALS MAJORITY OF HOUSING PROVIDERS ARE

With less than 18 months from full implementation, more than two-thirds of decision makers in the housing market are not prepared for the Future Homes Standard (FHS), according to a new survey by REHAU.

In its latest market readiness report, Future Homes Standard: Preparing UK Housing for 2025, leading polymer window profiles manufacturer REHAU has revealed just over half of respondents are ‘somewhat prepared’ against the FHS timeframe.

Compliance with the Future Homes Standard is mandatory from 2025. However, REHAU’s survey of 200 decision makers for building products in local authorities, housing associations social housing and housebuilding also found that 79% said it was going to be ‘somewhat challenging’ or ‘very challenging’ to meet the FHS timeline.

To help housing providers, REHAU is committed to raising awareness about how PVCu door and window frames can help address the challenges of being ready for the FHS. This is especially important as no respondents to REHAU’s survey were aware of a window system capable of meeting the 0.85 W/m2K U-value standard required under the upcoming legislation, with 65% saying ‘no’ and 35% saying they were ‘unsure’.

FOR FUTURE HOMES STANDARD

Martin Hitchin, CEO at REHAU UK, comments: “Reaching a point where all new homes produce between 75%-80% less carbon emissions than previous standards is a huge challenge, though clearly necessary if the UK is to have any chance of achieving net zero by 2050 – a target that is now legally binding.

“The UK’s position is also concerning because the FHS comes into force in less than two years.”

To date, discussion has understandably been dominated by the new build market, but there’s a need for the housing industry to consider how existing properties can be improved. There is a huge amount of legacy building stock that will remain occupied for the foreseeable future, especially by social housing providers. The feasibility of net zero rests in part on addressing the retrofit challenge.

On top of the shortening timescales, our report also shows that there is an overriding lack of awareness in the market. No one knew of a window system offering a FHS U-value of 0.85 W/m²K. However, these U-values can be achieved with the right design and specification. REHAU, for example, can deliver exceptional thermal performance without compromising on design or finish.

To help housing providers get ahead, Martin advises that research, a reliable supply chain, and collaboration with manufacturers like REHAU, is key. He also warns that just because windows are labelled as ‘high-performance’, they still may not meet the full FHS requirements.

“Researching the current market to establish a reliable supply chain for the products you’ll need for a typical development is more important than ever before,“ said Martin. “It’s important to collate information and certification from manufacturers like REHAU – which already has several products ahead of the regulatory curve.

“Something we see a lot is supposedly ‘high-performance windows’ failing to meet the requirements set out in the FHS. There are several reasons why high-performance windows that are compliant on paper might fail. Poor surveys that overlook the building structure and removal of existing frames is one area that could lead to errors. It’s important to work with suppliers to help overcome these issues.”

To read REHAU’s report, Future Homes Standard: Preparing UK housing for 2025, click here.

NOT PREPARED

Whether in a conservation area or a listed building, it pays to extend the life of our traditional and historic buildings through careful and appropriate product design and specification.

The new VELUX Heritage conservation roof window allows homeowners to modernise their historic houses whilst respecting the heritage of the building.

The new Heritage conservation roof window has been cocreated with conservation officers and architects to ensure that it complies with the design requirements for historic, heritage and conservation buildings, while at the same time meeting the standards of modern living with its high thermal performance glazing. The glazing comes with premium features like safety lamination, an easy-to-clean coating and compatibility with blinds for extra comfort and light control, and seamless integration with the roof.

The slim, black exterior of the roof window sits flush and blends beautifully into the roofing materials, while its glassto-edge technology lets in as much daylight as possible. The aesthetics of the roof window mimic old cast iron windows and by using the original handwinder for natural ventilation, the homeowners can enjoy a fresh indoor climate and light feeling to their space.

The Heritage conservation roof window has now launched in nine different sizes to match all types of retrofitting or roofing projects.

Just like all VELUX roof windows, the new Heritage conservation roof window is a high-quality product that has been built to last. It is designed and extensively tested to provide full durability – wherever it’s installed, whatever the weather.

With our new Heritage conservation roof window, homeowners can improve their historic homes and preserve the character of the building. The slim profile and flush fitting window are designed to sensitively integrate with original roofing materials, providing the benefits of natural daylight and fresh air inside the home whilst improving the energy performance of the historic building.

Alex O'dell, Senior Market Director of Great Britain & Ireland, VELUX.

Manual, top-hung operation

9 sizes

Flush installation blends into roofing material

Sleek, slim-fit profiles

Suitable for slates and plain tiles

Roof pitch: between 20°- 65°

Rain noise reduction, safety lamination, toughened outer glass, easy-to-clean coating and UV filter

NEW VIRTUAL SHOWROOM FEATURING REYNAERS’ PREMIUM PRODUCTS

Reynaers Aluminium UK has launched a new 360-degree virtual showroom to showcase what can be achieved with the latest aluminium systems, bringing a closeup look at its glazed solutions to customers’ fingertips.

While Reynaers has a comprehensive showroom at its Birmingham headquarters, featuring many of its windows, sliding and bi-fold doors, and curtain walling systems, the high quality interactive virtual showroom will make viewing the finished product instantly accessible to fabricators, installers, architects, and homeowners across the country.

This latest step in Reynaers’ digitalisation drive takes the customer on a journey through the different products available to gain an insight into how they would look on a completed project – including information points to provide further details about each product and links to online specifications.

‘Hotspots’ on the Reynaers at Home version will provide general information geared specifically towards homeowners.

Designed to replicate the existing showroom, which has the largest selection of Reynaers products anywhere in the UK,

the new digital version will make viewing the installed product more accessible to Reynaers’ national network of installers and fabricators. With customers located across the country from the South West and South East throughout the Midlands and up to Northern England, the digital showroom will also help to support the company’s goals to operate more sustainably and cut carbon emissions wherever possible.

Samantha Hill, Head of Marketing at Reynaers Aluminium UK, said: “Visualising the systems in place is important to all clients throughout the supply chain and by introducing this interactive showroom, installers, fabricators and the end customer can get a real taste of how Reynaers’ systems will look in the final project.

“Reynaers customers are welcome to visit the showroom here in Birmingham, but we recognise that is not always practical and wanted to make it as easy as possible to visualise these design-led installations in situ, where you can see what can really be achieved with high-end slimline aluminium glazing systems.

“While the showroom offers a great walkaround experience, future functionality

will look to include product demonstrations as part of a programme of continual development in digital resources.”

Under the Reynaers at Home scheme, partners can book time in the central showroom to show clients how systems will look on a completed project – and the 360 virtual showroom aims to bring an added level of convenience to support customers through the scheme. Commercial customers will also have access to a dedicated virtual showroom.

Accessible through any online device, the virtual showroom allows visitors to navigate their way around, browsing a range of products including ConceptPatio 130, HiFinity and MasterPatio sliding doors; the ConceptFolding 68 bifold door; MasterLine, SlimLine 68 and SlimLine 38 windows; and ConceptWall 50 and ConceptWall 65 curtain walling.

ASPEX UK SUPPLY BESPOKE DOORSETS FOR OAK CANCER CENTRE, ROYAL MARSDEN HOSPITAL

Established in 2006, Aspex UK are market leaders for interior fitout solutions, enabling specifiers and project managers to source timber doorsets, steel doors, risers, architectural ironmongery and access control from one supplier greatly reducing the risk of specification conflict and non-conformance across doorset packages. Proudly supplying all types of projects from residential, healthcare, education and commercial, Aspex work closely with architects, contractors and developers nationwide.

Aspex are delighted to have supplied the doorset package for The Oak Cancer Centre

– The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London. This £50m new worldrenowned, state-of-art cancer facility will help accelerate the development of new treatments offering hope for cancer patients worldwide.

Aspex supplied technical doorsets decorated with Formica® laminates, namely Nevada Oak – a nature inspired woodgrain laminate. The laminated door leaf’s were coupled with primed frames. The lipping and vision panel beads were stained to match Formica Group’s Nevada Oak laminate to achieve a well-coordinated, carefully designed interior space.

Aspex also supplied Novista concealed doorsets, and some PVC Encapsulated lead-lined X-ray doorsets with specialist Vistamatic vision panels.

Aspex’s experienced project consultants can help you make well-informed decisions about your project, by proposing suitable doorset choices from door cores, configurations and finishes making sure the options adhere with the required fire performance, regulatory compliance, budget, delivery timeframes and interior design visions. Aspex aim to support you every step of the way, not just supply doorsets and ironmongery products.

Speak to Aspex about design choices, free samples and quotes, optimised delivery plans and maintenance tips and more.

E: sales@aspex.co.uk

W: www.aspex.co.uk.

VALOURAN ANNOUNCES HISTORIC GRADE II LISTED “THE CHAPEL” AS INAUGRAL SITE

Best-in-class residential development unveiled in St. John’s Wood

Valouran, the global pioneering property developer and placemaker, today announces that it has begun development of the former Connaught Chapel, a Grade II listed building in St John’s Wood, into five luxury apartments.

The 14,805 sq. ft Chapel on St John’s Wood Terrace has a rich and varied history, serving a multitude of purposes over the years, from commercial offices to event space, television recording studios, and a squash court. Committed to repurposing and sympathetically transforming historic structures, the 1830s property will be transformed by Valouran into a collection of five luxurious apartments.

Works are underway, with construction expected to begin in Autumn Q4 2023, and fit out earmarked for Q2 2024.

Co-founder of Valouran, Alex Michelin comments “This project is a wonderful addition to the Valouran stable of developments as it is so unique and will provide such incredible spaces for its residents once complete. Arguably one of the most sought-after opportunities in St John’s Wood, we are committed to preserving the architectural heritage of The Chapel whilst delivering homes of the very highest modern standard with excellent environmental credentials. We are really proud of plans for the redevelopment of the building, which ensures the property blends harmoniously into the surrounding streetscape and promises to provide a truly exciting place to live.”

The Horniman Museum and Gardens has been awarded £5.7m by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, for its transformational Nature + Love project.

Nature + Love – which has at its heart an ambition to celebrate and foster a love of nature, both inside the Horniman and in the Gardens – will redevelop three areas of the south London venue, most notably the historic Natural History Gallery, home to the much-loved Horniman walrus.

In the Natural History Gallery, built in 1901, the fabric of the Grade II listed building will be upgraded to improve accessibility and to future proof the gallery environment for decades to come. The gallery displays will be redesigned to explore human understanding of and impact upon the planet. Adjacent to the gallery will be an Action Zone focused on local wildlife with interactive elements designed for families with young children.

The other Nature + Love locations are two currently under-used areas of the Gardens.

• In the Nature Explorers Adventure Zone, the disused model boating pond will be transformed into a natural play area, inspired by local wildlife and designed to encourage young

children’s engagement with and love for nature. Step-free access to the Nature Trail will be introduced for the first time.

• In the Sustainable Gardening Zone, the under-used South Downs area of the Gardens will be transformed into a Winter Garden, with adjacent glasshouses housing a plant nursery and community facilities focused on sustainable gardening, health and wellbeing.

The Nature + Love plans have been developed by architects Feilden Fowles working in collaboration with landscape architects J&L Gibbons and with the indoor gallery display being redesigned by exhibition designers Studio MB.

A key aspect of Nature + Love is the focus on environmental measures, in line with the Horniman’s Climate and Ecology Manifesto. The Nature Explorers Adventure Zone incorporates rain gardens, to manage rainfall run-off from the slope of the hill. The Sustainable Gardening Zone also features rain gardens, as well as a rainfall capture system which will use gravity to provide watering for plants around the 16.5acre, Green Flag awarded Gardens. In the Natural History Gallery, the historic

showcases will be refitted to better protect exhibits while retaining much of the look and feel of the iconic gallery.

The funding award was agreed at the Heritage Fund’s June committee meeting. The Horniman previously received Stage 1 development funding of £475,000 from the Heritage Fund, to develop the Nature + Love plans ahead of making the Stage 2 bid.

The Horniman is approaching other funding bodies and inviting individual donors to support Nature + Love, which will cost just over £10m in total. It already has a pledge of £1.4m from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, a substantial grant of £250,000 from the Foyle Foundation and has raised £200,000 so far from Trustees and a number of generous individual donors.

The Nature + Love redevelopments, which are subject to planning, are due to begin in 2024.

HORNIMAN AWARDED MAJOR GRANT FROM THE NATIONAL LOTTERY HERITAGE FUND FOR NATURE + LOVE PROJECT

With architecture led by Darling Associates, the vision for The Chapel involves a meticulous restoration and renovation process that honours the building’s heritage while introducing contemporary design and state-of-the-art amenities. Interior design firm Gunter&Co has been appointed to curate the interiors of the apartments, which will range in size from two to four bedrooms. The interiors will embrace an understated luxurious approach that takes cues from the building’s rich history, featuring natural materials, from beautiful marbles to light timbers with bronze touches.

With sustainability a key pillar of the business, The Chapel will minimise its carbon footprint by eliminating the use of gas systems, offering residents high-performance mechanical and electrical installations that surpass Part L requirements, in addition to incorporating air source, zero-emission high-efficiency heat pumps. Committed to promoting biodiversity, the development will boast a rich variety of plants, enhancing urban biodiversity and contributing to the improvement of green infrastructure. All materials will be responsibly sourced, and kept local where possible.

One of London’s most desirable residential neighbourhoods, known for its picturesque, tree-lined streets, St John’s Wood’s rich history, characterful high street and abundance of green space is popular amongst homeowners worldwide. Valouran’s pipeline is set to grow further this year with several sites already purchased and identified for future developments across London.

GALLIARD HOMES GETS THE GREEN LIGHT FOR LEEGATE SHOPPING CENTRE REGENERATION

Acting on behalf of residential property developer Galliard Homes, the Planning team of property consultancy Knight Frank has secured go ahead from Lewisham Planning Committee for the regeneration of Leegate Shopping Centre in Lee Green, South East London.

Designed by Rolfe Judd Architecture, the proposed scheme focuses on the sustainable regeneration of a 1.92-hectare underutilised brownfield site which is currently occupied by the 1960s Leegate Shopping Centre.

The proposal, which secured resolution to grant at planning committee on Wednesday 19 July, is for buildings of up to 15 storeys to deliver 562 new homes including 36% affordable housing, flexible commercial floorspace, a community centre, public house, a medical facility, gym, a new public square and public realm improvements.

Knight Frank’s Residential Land team sold the site to Galliard Homes in early 2021 before the firm’s Planning team steered it through planning.

10 DESIGN REVEALS “GRASSLAND VILLAGE”FUTURE SCHOOL DESIGN AT THE HEART OF HANGZHOU

International architecture practice 10 Design (part of Egis Group) has won the competition to design a major 74,000 sq m school project within Qianjiang New City of Hangzhou, China.

10 Design envisages an innovative educational hub for 2,000 elementary school students which doubles as an accessible and child-friendly public space for the community. Led by Design Principal Peby

Pratama, the “grassland village” concept of the future school breaks away from the traditional primary school layout within a singular institutional building.

The new campus maximises the waterfront site by introducing an undulating green deck at the heart of the design. Acting as a floating oasis within the dense urban context of Hangzhou, the ergonomic deck ties the functional clusters together, while

providing ample green outdoor space to facilitate the interaction between landscape, teachers and students.

The school masterplan includes 48 teaching units, alongside specialised education facilities for science, art, PE, IT and performance art. The three teaching blocks divided by grade level are placed in the southeast and away from the motorway, encouraging communication and collective learning for students of similar age.

Below the green deck are shared facilities including the library, canteen, activity rooms situated along an east-west main street, which runs through the campus serving as a central public space. The masterplan also includes an 800-seat performance theatre in the northwest corner which will be shared with the local community.

An earthy colour palette and natural textures were chosen for the façade to articulate the idea of a safe, healthy campus in nature. Moreover, the development as a whole maximises daylight, natural ventilation and green area which is reflected in the classroom design and orientation.

“Our vision is to create a learning environment that facilitates environmental education and social interaction for our future generations. The design, emphasising openness, vitality and sustainability, is an organic response as well as a celebration of nature in the new city of Hangzhou,” shared Peby.

Plug and play secondary heating solutions.

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PLACING DESIGN STAGE HVAC FRONT AND CENTRE

By Erik Boyter, CEO,

The one-year grace period to comply with Part L is now over, ushering in a new era in UK energy performance targets. Behind the changes is a government push for cleaner, greener infrastructure, with Net Zero targets and the Future Buildings Standard already steering carbon reduction strategies.

The pressure is now on asset owners, especially those in the commercial sector, to reduce carbon emissions and address energy inefficiency wherever possible.

However, with Savills suggesting 85% of current office stock would only achieve a Grade B EPC, failing to meet 2030 energy standards , it seems current efforts are set to fall short of official targets.

WindowMaster

So it comes as no surprise building owners, specifiers and contractors alike are now doubling down to find, remove and replace existing carbon-intensive systems to achieve regulatory compliance.

Inevitably, this has put many mechanical HVAC systems under the spotlight. Notorious for using large amounts of power, the latest figures from the UK Green Building Council highlight their substantial impact; responsible for nearly a quarter (23%) of all built environment emissions.

With many of these systems still being specified, or in operation, across the UK’s commercial built environment, it’s a large-scale issue that needs to be tackled with new builds and retrofits. With this massive task in mind, how can architects best approach the issue to ensure future sustainable success? Let’s find out…

Effecting immediate change

A good starting point is recognising the importance of early-stage specification, and creating a tailor-made HVAC strategy to ensure that the most effective, sustainable and best-value solution is implemented. Approached correctly, it will result in a system requiring less maintenance and lower the likelihood of expensive replacement down the line, simultaneously reducing emissions and improving energy efficiency.

Furthermore, planned in conjunction with other elements of the building, these properties can be enhanced for greater financial and carbon savings. For example, specified alongside a low u-value fabric, the building’s overall thermal performance is enhanced without the need for mechanical support, slashing heating bills into the bargain.

It can also pave the way for seamless integration of the HVAC system with Building Management Systems (BMS), giving facilities managers’ greater control over heating and ventilation as soon as the property comes online.

A breath of fresh air

From here on, it’s about choosing an HVAC system that best meets the requirements of the design brief. Given the increasing focus on sustainability, one of the industry’s front-runners is natural ventilation.

These low-impact, easy-to-install, and operate systems harness the natural air supply from the surrounding environment to seamlessly ventilate interior spaces. Incorporated with the latest AIbacked technology, these systems are programmable and can be automated in conjunction with the BMS to manage airflow, guaranteeing a consistently comfortable atmosphere by helping to adjust temperatures as required.

That’s not all, these low-maintenance systems can also be configured to account for peak and low occupancy periods, which is critical for building owners managing fluctuating capacities.

A healthy ROI

The added benefit of planning-in natural ventilation goes beyond protecting the planet, it also sustains the building’s occupants. With Part F, which focuses on minimum acceptable levels of indoor air quality, now enforced, HVAC systems also need to comply with this standard.

It’s widely known that access to fresher air can significantly improve indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and contribute to a healthier, happier and more productive working environment. Natural ventilation, by continuously flowing fresh air throughout a building, rather than recycling it like many mechanical systems, can help achieve this scenario in tandem with the aforementioned Part L requirements.

So you see, HVAC is not something to be overlooked or tackled at a later stage. It needs to be considered from the very beginning. Otherwise, you run the real risk of derailing the overall whole-life sustainability of the building, falling out of compliance and increasing the risk of poor IAQ.

The onus and opportunity now lie with specifiers, who must see early-stage sustainable HVAC specification as a key component toward a cleaner, greener and healthier built environment.

The good news is natural ventilation is now mainstream, affordable and proven. Everyone from architects to asset owners can breathe easy in the knowledge they have a tried-and-tested ventilation solution that is not going to increase their collective carbon footprint or break the bank.

35 YEARS AND COUNTING

2023 sees GEZE UK celebrate another milestone in the company’s history – 35 years in business, and in that time the company has grown and developed hugely.

Formed in 1988, GEZE UK was the second subsidiary to be established by German parent company, GEZE GmbH, following GEZE France. Based in Chelmsford, Essex, the company started trading mainly in the distribution of door closer products.

Recognising a gap in the UK market, a new division was set up in 1997, in Tamworth, Staffordshire to concentrate on the provision of complete automatic door solutions from design to installation and including technical advice and guidance on building regulations.

By 2003, GEZE UK had outgrown the Chelmsford office and the decision was taken to merge it and the Tamworth operation into new purpose-built premises at Fradley Park in Lichfield, Staffordshire.

In 2008 the first service office was set up followed by a further 6 offices throughout the UK. The Scottish office, near Glasgow, is a full service provider for the Scottish market, dedicated to the specification, installation and service of automatic doors.

Kaz Spiewakowski, MD of GEZE UK, said “During my 10 years at GEZE UK I have seen many changes and challenges including Brexit, the Covid pandemic and a recent cyber-attack. As a company we have shown fantastic resilience and the ability to all pull together in difficult circumstances.

"From a handful of staff in the early days to over 250 today, the company would not have developed as it has without their expertise, determination and dedication.

"As we look to the future we continue to focus on offering the very best customer service, as well as managing issues such as product certification, sustainability and fire safety. We also look to ‘give back’ through our corporate social responsibility programme”.

To find out more about GEZE UK and the comprehensive range of automatic and manual door closers, and window technology products, email info.uk@geze.com or visit www.geze.co.uk.

A good starting point is recognising the importance of early-stage specification, and creating a tailor-made HVAC strategy to ensure that the most effective, sustainable and best-value solution is implemented.

Photography: © Alex Filz

Omarama: A SPACE OF LIGHT

After twenty years of living, travelling and adventuring in Asia and Oceania, the person who returns from a journey is not the same as the one who left. In its latest work, NOA takes up the fascinating story of the client and, on the occasion of her return to Innsbruck, creates an exclusive interior design reminiscent of faraway atmospheres. Transforming a bare attic in the centre of Innsbruck into a home ready to welcome the many stories of a traveller: this was the aim of the latest project undertaken by NOA. The architecture and

Project name Omarama

Typology Private Penthouse

Location Innsbruck

Client Private

Interior Design NOA

General Contractor CONDUK

Construction start October 2022

Completion December 2022

Volume 420 m³

Surface area (NFA) 135 m²

interior design studio had already proven in earlier projects to be adept at combining Alpine atmospheres with distant worlds. A fortunate combination of the client’s exciting history of twenty years spent in England, Singapore, New Zealand and many other countries, and a top-floor flat bathed in light, with the imposing silhouette of the Alps as a backdrop, laid the foundations for the project.

“Each of our designs unfolds a story. In this work, an additional personal aspect was brought into play, namely the memories of a life that the client carried with her. Paintings, statues and handcrafted objects that needed to be displayed in an enhancing setting” explains Lukas Rungger, NOA founder.

In defining the concept, the interior designers started from the floor plan of the flat, a quadrangular space of 135 m² with a central block for the service area and the staircase leading to the roof terrace. Given the three-sided orientation of the large windows and the possibility of having several functions succeed each other in a contiguous U-shaped space, NOA arranged the different living stations in accordance with the trajectory of the sun. To the east, the morning light illuminates the entrance where there is also a small office area

with desk and bookcase, to the southeast a comfortable corner sofa is the focal point of the living area, to the south two freestanding kitchen blocks fill the space, while the warm sunset light spreads over the dining table for eight, positioned to the south-west.

Photographs Alex Filz

Two bedrooms on the west side round off the layout. Light thus becomes a central element in the design, proof of which is the unanimous choice of the flat’s name, Omarama, which means ‘space of light’ in the language of the Māori, the indigenous population of New Zealand with whom the client came into close contact.

The colour palette of the interior is reduced to the essential: black and white, with saffron yellow as the only point of colour Similarly, the furnishings follow a purist geometry: the result is a sober, elegant ambience that recalls Asian atmospheres, especially in the lamps and the oak wood panelling.

“We wanted to employ dark tones, using black quartzite, painted oak and metal. Through the use of wooden slats, we have darkened the walls, transforming the room into a backdrop with a suffused atmosphere where only the Alps and a few selected objects are at the centre of attention,” continues interior designer Niccolò Panzani.

The furniture pieces include the Tufty-Time sofa by B&B Italia, the black leather chairs from the Era Chair collection by Living Divani, the saffron nubuck leather chairs from the Gemma

collection by Baxter, the Paper Pendant rice paper lamps by vipp and the Hat lamps by Aromas del Campo. The surfaces are in contrast: black ‘Noirblanc’ quartzite by Antolini was used for the kitchen top, the bar cabinet and the coffee table, while for the dining table, the designers chose white ‘Montblanc’ quartzite by Favorita. White also returns in the bathrooms’ surfaces, where tiles from Botteganove’s Flora collection reproduce large Polynesian palm leaves as in a macro photograph.

The three nón lá, the conical straw hats, the large Indian painting in the dining area, and the statue from Myanmar of the warrior with the umbrella are the finishing touches to a flat that looks far beyond the mountains of Innsbruck.

In this work, an additional personal aspect was brought into play, namely the memories of a life that the client carried with her.

LONDON BUILD 2023

London Build, the leading construction and design show in the UK, is back with a bang in 2023, taking over London Olympia this November 15th and 16th. From contractors and architects to civil engineers and developers, professionals, over 30,000 construction professionals from across the UK will meet more than 350 exhibitors to network and discover the latest trends, technologies, and opportunities shaping the future of the built environment.

The event boasts an impressive lineup of 550+ inspiring speakers across 8 conference stages, offering insights and expertise on a wide range of topics. Learn from industry as they discuss the Future of Construction, BIM & Digital Construction, Fire Safety, Sustainability, Diversity & Inclusion, and much more. With over 200 hours of CPD-accredited workshops and panels, these sessions will provide attendees with the latest industry trends, innovation and project opportunities. Stay ahead of the curve and uncover the latest best practices, regulations, and techniques that will drive your career and business forward.

For those looking to connect with key decision-makers and explore business opportunities, the Meet the Buyers event is not to be missed. Meet with procurement teams from Tier 1 Contractors that include Balfour Beatty, Costain, Mace and more to learn of all the latest projects and tender opportunities!

But it's not all business at London Build. Don’t miss out on the UK's biggest Festival of Construction, combining business with entertainment. Attendees can expect to be enjoy the beats of top DJs, live performances by talented musicians, and exciting competitions. Last year visitors had the chance to meet sporting legends Frank Bruno and Kevin Keegan – who knows who you might meet on the event floor this November?

Brand new for 2023 is the London Build Government Hub - providing insights into government policies, initiatives, and procurement opportunities. Engage with public sector representatives, learn about regulatory frameworks, and unlock new opportunities for collaboration.

Networking is at the heart of London Build, and your ticket to this year's event gives you access to exclusive networking events, cohosted by leading industry bodies. Connect with like-minded professionals, expand your professional network and unlock new opportunities at events held by Let’s Build, the London Constructing Excellence Club and much more!

London Build 2023 is proud to champion diversity and inclusivity in the UK’s construction industry. Don’t miss out on the UK's largest annual networking events for Women in Construction and Diversity in Construction, providing a platform for you to connect, share experiences, and drive change in the sector. Additionally, the London Build works closely with a team of Ambassador through our inclusive Ambassador Programme advocating for Women in Construction, Diversity in Construction, Sustainability in Construction and Mental Health in Construction, ensuring that everyone's voices are heard and celebrated.

Don’t miss out on your chance to gain access to 500+ speakers, 350+ exhibitors, live product demos, networking parties, entertainment, live music, the UK’s biggest Festival of Construction and endless networking opportunities with leading architects, developers, housebuilders, contractors, government and more.

DESIGN TO DRIVE EMPLOYEES BACK TO THE OFFICE

By Damion Burrows, Managing Director of DMBA, and Emily Smith, COO of Argyll

As the modern workforce emerged from the pandemic into a world of hybrid working, the office has had to quickly adapt to meet new expectations and prove its worth.

In response to the demands of a new working era, office providers, architects and designers have had to evolve new design standards. For Argyll, London’s exclusive office provider, clients have been increasingly seeking a ‘home away from home’. Having grown accustomed to the creature comforts of home working, offices that feel personalised and relaxed have quickly displaced the cookie-cutter office spaces of old. From soft furnishings and warm lighting to coffee stations resembling kitchen islands, workers want to recreate a residential setting but with all the highend amenities of a luxury hotel. After all, if workers are only coming into the City a few days a week, their office surroundings should be high quality to lure them back.

A historic fabric

Refurbishing Argyll’s portfolio of heritage buildings in iconic locations presented an opportunity as exciting as it was challenging. We were looking to update the architectural language of the buildings and create a distinct identity across Argyll’s portfolio whilst paying homage to the heritage of the buildings. Working with heritage consultants, we updated magnolia and grey colour palettes to deep blues and greens more aligned with the buildings’ original Georgian grandeur. To create a sense of continuity, we subtly designed in familiarity across the buildings such as through fluted period joinery.

For Argyll, London’s exclusive office provider, clients have been increasingly seeking a ‘home away from home’.

“

Photographs by Robin Quarrelle

However, the refurbishment also required an evolution of the design process with each building. Listed buildings demand careful handling to celebrate their unique features whilst updating them in line with modern needs. For example, Argyll’s building on Cornhill sits opposite the Bank of England, possessing a deep and rich history in the City. This history is reflected in the imposing marble columns that command the lobby area, requiring a sensitive and bespoke interior design approach. From a design perspective, leaning into these dominant architectural structures is essential to allow the colour palette, fabrics, and furnishings to gently complement existing structures. One way to offset the spatial dominance of the columns, was to set out low seating with soft lighting around the edge of the rotunda. This drew the energy to the edges of the space and allowed the interiors to accommodate the needs of different customers while still creating a sense of a private domain.

Sensory design

One way to weave a coherent narrative between Argyll’s portfolio has been to tease out consistency of colour palette, panelling and fabrics to connect the buildings together. Another unique branding technique that was harnessed to create this cohesiveness was the launch of Argyll No.3, Argyll’s bespoke scent. Working with celebrity perfumer Azzi Glasser, we developed a signature scent that allows visitors to the building to recognise it is an Argyll space as soon as they walk in. This subtle sensory design tool helped to amplify the boutique, hotel-like feel across the Argyll portfolio.

The demands of the modern workplace

Not only have we witnessed a move towards ‘hotelified’ workspaces, but there has also been a shift in the sustainability demands facing our buildings. For example, upgrading the EPC ratings across the portfolio of largely listed buildings has been critical. Whilst older buildings can often be seen as the Achilles heel to delivering sustainability targets, they can in fact offer overlooked assets. A third of lifetime CO2 emissions for an office building have been emitted upon completion and so upgrading and retrofitting our existing stock is crucial. From updating outdated heating and cooling systems, to installing LED lighting, small interventions have added up to significant changes – for instance, 84 Brook Street moved from a ‘D’ to ‘B’ EPC rating.

Balancing high-end, bespoke designs with the practical needs of the modern workplace has been at the heart of Argyll’s refurbishment programme, speaking to a workforce demanding sustainability, luxury, and comfort for their working experience.

Balancing high-end, bespoke designs with the practical needs of the modern workplace has been at the heart of Argyll’s refurbishment programme, speaking to a workforce demanding sustainability, luxury, and comfort for their working experience.

COHOUSING SCHEME SETS THE NEW CAMBRIDGE VERNACULAR WITH VANDERSANDEN BRICKS

An award winning, 42-home cohousing development in Orchard Park, Cambridge, Marmalade Lane is recognised as a leading example of best practice. To bring the scheme to fruition, TOWN, with its partner Trivselhus and supported by Mole Architects, was selected as the preferred developer by Cambridge City Council and Cambridge Cohousing. Much of the scheme’s aesthetic appeal is due to the use of three Vandersanden bricks: Majestic, Nevado Grey and Old Windsor.

Cohousing is a mutually supportive form of living that is well-established in northern European countries and which is gaining in popularity in the UK. At Marmalade Lane, in addition to self-contained, privatelyowned terraced and apartment homes, the community shares many spaces and facilities. These include a ‘Common House’ at the centre of the development and a car-free street that is the social heart of the scheme – a place for people to socialise and for children to play.

Marmalade Lane is one of the largest examples of group custom build in the UK so developers TOWN and Mole Architects worked closely with the future residents through a process of co-design from the start. “With a menu-based approach to dwelling customisation, purchasers were able to select their chosen brick colour from the palette of the three Vandersanden bricks plus the option of a white painted brick facade,” explains Meredith Bowles, director at Mole Architects.

Although Marmalade Lane is on the periphery of Cambridge, the aim was to give the scheme a quality that is found in the brick colours of the attractive streets in the middle of the city. Over time the bricks of the old houses have become sooted so the palette includes a kind of sooty grey hue, the more striking pale yellow of Georgian homes and also the red brick from the Victorian terraces; there are also a reasonable proportion of buildings where people have painted the bricks. Essentially, Marmalade Lane is a concentrated version of this collective vision.

Bowles believes the choice of brick at Marmalade Lane perfectly complements this vision. “It seems to have become a Cambridge style with new developments all around now using the same mix of hues. Vandersanden’s Majestic, Nevado Grey and Old Windsor provide the ideal range of colours and offer the quality and textures that perfectly echo the vernacular.”

The brickwork at Marmalade Lane is comparatively simple, the one exception being a few bands of projecting headers that create stripes of shadow as the sun moves across the facade of one of the apartment buildings at the corner of the site. Two mortar colours were employed with a dark mortar for the Nevado Grey bricks and a lighter, sandier colour for the Majestic and Old Windsor bricks.

The Nevado Grey bricks have been employed to bring cohesion to many of the key elements of the scheme, including the flat roofed structures that house the air source heat pumps at the front of each house, the bicycle and bins stores as well as the Common House.

Bowles is enthusiastic about the Vandersanden product. “It’s terrific and quite unusual to find one company with such a strong and varied range of characterful bricks. Part of the scheme’s success was finding bricks that worked and had lots of character within a reasonably modest budget. There is something special about the surface texture, patination, irregularity and the sense of liveliness that the Vandersanden bricks offer. They evoke a handmade quality found in older bricks that makes them much more attractive than so many of the bricks made today.”

To find out more about this project, and for more information on Majestic, Nevado Grey and Old Windsor, as well as other high-quality bricks available from Vandersanden, visit their website.