Refurb Renovation News - Issue 56 by Lapthorn Media

Issue 56 2022

Kitesgrove Designs Private Offices in the Style of a Residential Townhouse

TIMELESS ELEGANCE WITH GARADOR’S GEORGIAN DOORS

Elisa launches Antonella premium tap collection

JO LITTLEFAIR

TOP TIPS FOR LIGHTING

CRITTALL WINDOWS HIT THERMAL TARGETS AT WORLD HERITAGE SITE

TR Studio convert London terraced house into high-end contemporary rental apartments

Lime. Yesterday. Today. Tomorrow PROTECTING HER I TAG E, BU I L D I NG S, A N D E N VI R O N ME N T

Ryder Architects chose EcoRight Coal Black hydraulic lime mortar to complement the Petersen bricks used for its £7m new build headquarters and campus for on-line gaming company Tombola. Built on the banks of the River Wear, within the Old Sunderland Riverside Conservation Area, Tombola House plays a major role in reinvigorating a historically significant part of the city. This award-winning architectural design was developed by Brim Construction using multiple pitch roof and brick construction which reflected

the warehouses that characterise the surrounding riverside area. EcoRight colour matched its hydraulic lime mortar to the Petersen bricks to give a stylish and contemporary aesthetic to this landmark building. EcoRight manufactures a comprehensive range of ecologically sound lime-based renders, mortars and plasters, working with architects, developers and specialist heritage contractors throughout the UK. Delivery nationwide in dry silo, bag or IBC. For more information about using lime, ask us for RIBA CPD or on-site Toolbox Talks.

EcoRight is part of:

EcoRight Ltd. Unit 2, Paddock Road Industrial Estate Caversham, Reading, Berkshire RG4 5BY Email: info@ecoright.co.uk | www.ecoright.co.uk

CHOTTO MATTE SOHO REVEALS A STUNNING NEW DESIGN

UK’S FIRST NATIONAL HOME ENERGY WEEK LAUNCHES TO HELP HOUSEHOLDERS ‘SWITCH OFF’ FUEL POVERTY

PEMBROKE COMPLETES LANDMARK 25 CANNON STREET REVITALIZATION

DOUBLE SUCCESS FOR GLEEDS AT SCOTTISH DESIGN AWARDS

GREEN LIVING LIVE LAUNCHES AT NEC

CHURCH CONVERSION WILL BE A GODSEND TO COMMUNITY

SCREWFIX STORE OPENINGS CONTINUE AT PACE WITH 800TH STORE OPENED

BIG BRANDS AND NEW NAMES! THE FLOORING SHOW 2022

ELISA LAUNCHES ANTONELLA PREMIUM TAP COLLECTION

KITESGROVE DESIGNS PRIVATE OFFICES IN THE STYLE OF A RESIDENTIAL TOWNHOUSE

DIY SOS TEAM HEADS TO LEEDS FOR THE BIG BUILD BBC CHILDREN IN NEED SPECIAL WITH BBC RADIO 2

HEATING INSTALLERS SPLIT ON WHETHER TO BEGIN FITTING HEAT PUMPS, BAXI REPORT FINDS

WHEN DOES COST OUTWEIGH CONSERVATION?

INTERNATIONALLY ACCLAIMED INTERIOR DESIGNER JO LITTLEFAIR REVEALS HER TOP TIPS FOR LIGHTING

BERT AND MAY’S FOUNDER EXPLAINS THE IMPORTANCE OF APPLIANCE CHOICE IN THE DESIGN PROCESS

TR STUDIO CONVERT LONDON TERRACED HOUSE INTO HIGHEND CONTEMPORARY RENTAL APARTMENTS

CRITTALL WINDOWS HIT THERMAL TARGETS AT WORLD HERITAGE SITE

THE ROYAL MARINE HOTEL BRORA REVEALS A PREVIEW OF £1.6M REFURBISHMENT

Contents Lapthorn Media Ltd

Issue 56 - 2022

Editor Maria Lapthorn editor@rrnews.co.uk

Circulation Manager Leo Phillips subs@rrnews.co.uk

Editorial Assistant Francesca Amato editorial@rrnews.co.uk

Accounts Richard Lapthorn accountsdept@rrnews.co.uk

CT12 6PB

Sales Assistant Jane Parker jane@rrnews.co.uk

Publishing Director Paul Attwood paul@rrnews.co.uk

Tel: 01843 808 102

Designer Laura Whitehead laura@rrnews.co.uk

www.rrnews.co.uk

5-7 Ozengell Place Eurokent Business Park Ramsgate Kent

very effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in Refurb & Renovation News however, the publishers accept no responsibility for the claims or opinions made by advertisers, manufactures or contributors. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, mechanical, electronic (including photocopying) or stored in any information retrieval system without the prior consent of the publisher.

Project News THE KING JOHN SCHOOL IN SOUTH BENFLEET COMPLETES £1.5M STATEOF-THE-ART REDEVELOPMENT A major £1.5 million redevelopment project to upgrade The King John School in Thundersley, South Benfleet, with state-of-the-art modern teaching facilities has been completed.

he work was project managed by Ingleton Wood and has allowed The King John School, which is managed by Zenith Multi-Academy Trust, to completely redevelop its canteen area and upgrade classroom facilities. Funded by Zenith MAT, the project focused on upgrading older areas of the school, such as the swimming pool courtyard which dated back to the 1940s. Work included an extension and refurbishment of the dining hall, the refurbishment of two classrooms, and construction of two modern drama studios, a large multi-use classroom, and an additional classroom suite. Ingleton Wood, a property and construction consultancy based in Billericay, was appointed as Project Managers and Principal Designers and provided multidisciplinary services including architecture, quantity surveying, civil and structural engineering, and mechanical and electrical engineering. Christopher Mabbutt, Partner at Ingleton Wood, said: “We were thrilled to use our

extensive experience within the education sector to help redevelop and modernise the teaching facilities at The King John School in South Benfleet. “We worked hand-in-hand with school leaders and Zenith Trust to design and create a first-class learning environment while adhering to the latest building standards and giving careful consideration to older parts of the school’s buildings and neighbouring residential properties. “The King John School is a high-achieving academy which now benefits from new stateof-the-art learning environments, including sophisticated ventilation systems, that will suit the needs of generations of students for years to come.” The renovation also allows The King John School, rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted, to provide enhanced bespoke specialist teaching areas for specific curriculum requirements and services. Dan Steel, Headteacher of The King John School, said: “We are really pleased with our school refurbishment project. We are always looking at ways to improve the learning environment for all our students.” Ingleton Wood is one of the largest property and construction consultancies in the East of England, with offices in Colchester, Norwich, Cambridge, Billericay and London. Its services include architecture, building surveying, building services engineering, planning, interior design, civil and structural engineering, quantity surveying, project management and health and safety.

CHOTTO MATTE SOHO REVEALS A STUNNING NEW DESIGN Renowned Nikkei restaurant Chotto Matte Soho temporarily closes for an exhilarating restyle.

fter almost 10 years of service, the flagship will close its doors this July to undergo a full transformation reopening in September 2022 to reveal a sleek, contemporary new look. Chotto Matte landed in 2013, with founder Kurt Zdesar bringing the vibrant spirit of Tokyo and the taste of Lima to the heart of Soho. It soon became a staple on London’s restaurant scene, mirroring its eclectic environment and continuously seeking creative influence through art and diversity. The reimagined restaurant will debut a stylish lounge bar, as well new menu additions, reworked cocktails and more. The stunning re-design will engulf the totality of Chotto Matte’s furniture from floor to chairs and tables to ceilings, featuring hues of green, purple, and orange. Tropical foliage will also be abundant throughout the restaurant, as a nod to the Peruvian landscape. All the brand’s most iconic features will still be found within the new design, including Japanese lava stone, shou sugi ban wood, and a variation of wall art inspired by Tokyo’s contemporary urban culture. Guests will still enjoy the theatrics of the sushi counter and upstairs open kitchen, complete with a new updated robata grill. Current sites include the Soho flagship, newly opened Marylebone branch in London, alongside Miami and Toronto. Soho’s new look will offer an insight into an elevated design direction and a preview of what’s yet to come. The unique concept seamlessly adapts to each of its locations, while the unmistakable essence of the brand remains at the forefront.

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The site has been designed by award-winning architect and long-standing brand partner Andy Martin Architecture (AMA).

Project News

PEMBROKE COMPLETES LANDMARK 25 CANNON STREET REVITALIZATION International real estate company Pembroke has completed its revitalisation of 120,414 sq ft of high-specification office and mixed-use space at 25 Cannon Street, unveiling a redesigned public garden opposite St Paul’s Cathedral. Global law firm Dechert will be the largest tenant of the office space and will take occupancy in 2023, on a 15-year lease assignment.

embroke worked alongside award-winning architecture practice Buckley Gray Yeoman and construction partner BAM to reimagine the distinctive five-storey 25 Cannon Street, with a stunning light-filled double-height reception and the creation of a new 5,400 sq ft roof terrace offering spectacular views of the Dome of St Paul’s Cathedral. At ground level, Pembroke has repurposed space for new retail and F&B uses, that will extend the food and drink offer from vibrant Watling Street through to St Paul’s, enriching the day to evening experience in this central location.

the basement workspaces below. Delivered in partnership with the City of London Corporation and celebrated landscape and garden design practice, Tom Stuart-Smith, it plays an important role in the City’s longterm recovery, offering a space for visitors and the urban workforce to enjoy the wellbeing benefits of a tranquil green space, while providing new habitats for local wildlife and encouraging greater biodiversity in this corner of the City.

The repositioning of 25 Cannon Street is Pembroke’s fifth major development project in London, having originally developed 25 Cannon Street itself in 2000, and has been completed a few years after Pembroke’s 4 Cannon Street development across the road, where a public garden was also enhanced as part of Pembroke’s commitment to sensitively rejuvenating special locations in London’s beating heart. Alongside BAM and Buckley Gray Yeoman, Pembroke were supported by a professional team consisting of project management specialist RPM, cost consultancy Alinea, structural engineering firm Waterman, and BREEAM consultant MTT.

Designed to enable more natural light and better air quality, as well as offering best-inclass end of trip facilities, the modern, highspec, energy-efficient workspace prioritises occupier wellbeing. 25 Cannon Street has been engineered to a high-performance criteria targeting BREEAM Excellent and the building can now operate fully on renewable power. From retaining the original stone façade and structure to reducing embodied carbon emissions through the construction process, sustainability has been central to the programme.

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The reimagined public space at 25 Cannon Street –the ‘Reflection Garden’ – is prominently located opposite Festival Gardens at St Paul’s. At its centre sits a striking reflection pool, creating a remarkable double view mirroring the famous cathedral dome, whilst allowing natural light to illuminate

Latest News RESI DEVELOPERS URGED TO CONFRONT JAPANESE KNOTWEED RISK Reluctance to confront the possibility that Japanese knotweed could be present on residential sites is putting developers at risk of expensive litigation if the plant emerges post-sale, reports Environet UK.

esidential developers, keen to get new-build projects underway and keep schedules on track, are in some cases failing to carry out the appropriate knotweed checks and remediation works, leading to misrepresentation and breach of contract claims being brought against them by new home buyers. In the last Budget the chancellor confirmed almost £2bn investment in bringing brownfield land back into use for housing and related infrastructure. Brownfield sites tend to carry a higher risk of contamination by Japanese knotweed, resulting in increased risk to developers. Breach of contract claims, whereby a buyer is able to prove the developer was in breach of the expressed or implied terms of the sales agreement, are notoriously expensive to defend. Similarly, misrepresentation claims, where the buyer’s solicitor has posed a direct question about Japanese knotweed and the developer has responded that the property is not affected, leaves developers open to claims for not only removal costs and legal expenses, but also diminution of the property’s value if the knotweed regrows.

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Knotweed detection dog surveys are now available to check land

for knotweed which may not be visible to the human eye or has been induced into dormancy by previous herbicide treatment. The detection dogs can cover a site in a matter of minutes and will indicate by ‘freezing’, or staying completely still, when Japanese knotweed is found, enabling fast and efficient remediation. It’s the most accurate way to determine if rhizome is present in the ground. If knotweed is discovered and the correct process followed with professional remediation and the provision of an insurancebacked guarantee to each buyer, residential developers will be released from any liability should knotweed appear. Knotweed remediation on development sites typically involves excavation, taking place within an enabling works contract or very early in the construction process in order to minimise disruption. New innovations are creating more environmentally friendly and lower-cost options for developers, such as Xtract™, Environet’s patented method for removing knotweed from construction sites and screening it to separate the knotweed rhizome from the soil before returning the clean soil to the ground, thereby eliminating the need for landfill disposal.

Japanese knotweed growing near new homes (© Environet UK)

GREEN LIVING LIVE LAUNCHES AT NEC After the hugely successful launch at London ExCeL earlier this year, Green Living Live, in partnership with myenergi will make its debut at NEC, running alongside Grand Designs Live from 5-9 October 2022.

he standalone show is dedicated to bringing innovative and exciting new developments in sustainability with an unrivalled education, and insight into eco-friendly products and services from companies that put sustainability at the heart of their business. All tickets to the show will also gain entry to Grand Designs Live. At a time when the cost of living and the price of energy is soaring, Green Living Live will bring together a host of brands and expertise covering all aspects of eco-home as well as personal transport. Visitors can find products such as eco building materials, insulation, heating and renewable systems, furnishings, and electric car-charging equipment with hundreds of brands on show including Tata Steel – Catnic, Ripple Energy, Cocobolo and myenergi. Kevin McCloud’s popular Green Heroes will be displayed within Green Living Live with a brand new selection of the most revolutionary, useful ecofriendly gadgets and products on the market selected by Kevin himself. The Sustainable Future Theatre and Advice Hub, will be a live stage where visitors will have the opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and advice

first hand from the experts on topics such as how to plan an eco-build or refit a house, advice on how to heat the home in a cost-effective way, how to source sustainable furnishings as well as advice tailored to every project. Popular at the London event, the GREEN GRADS, an ongoing initiative to platform UK graduates who are engaging with eco-issues such as sustainability, will be presenting their ideas for a greener and cleaner future with a mix of ‘green’ products, installations, and films that portray sustainability, biophilia, and biodiversity. For more information, visit Green Living Live www.greenlivinglive.com

Latest News

SCREWFIX STORE OPENINGS CONTINUE AT PACE WITH 800TH STORE OPENED Screwfix, the omnichannel retailer, has opened its 800th store in Bourton-on-theWater, Gloucestershire, UK.

arlier this year Screwfix announced its store target of 80 new stores across the UK and the Republic of Ireland, creating more than 800 new jobs by the end of January 2023. This latest opening marks a significant milestone for the business, bringing Screwfix closer to its overall target of 1,000 stores across the UK and Republic of Ireland. The 800th store opening confirms Screwfix’s intention to bring its convenience and its extensive product range closer to hardworking tradespeople, both in urban environments and in more rural locations such as Bourton-on-the-Water. Located in Bourton Industrial Park, Gloucestershire, the new store creates 12 jobs for the local community. To mark this significant milestone, the store was opened

with a launch event, with colleagues and senior representatives from Screwfix, including Operations and Property Director, Scott Parsons and Managing Director for UK and Ireland, Max Britten. As part of Screwfix’s ongoing commitment to reduce carbon emissions, all new stores are

SNICKERS WORKWEAR TROUSERS – MORE THAN FIT FOR PURPOSE Six Work Trouser families to satisfy every need on site - sustainably. Snickers Workwear’s trouser families are suited to any kind of work on site. Delivering maximum functionality, comfort, protection and mobility they’re the products of choice among discerning professional tradesmen and women. For them, sustainable, street-smart, bodymapping clothing are key parts of their product choices.

now equipped with air source heat pumps to provide heating, powered by electricity instead of gas. The retailer is also working to retrofit heat pumps in existing stores in a bid to make the entire network more sustainable. Most recently, its Great Yarmouth store became the 300th to be fitted with an air-source heat pump.

D ANLERS

New Smart ISI range

Hi-tech fabrics, functionality and fit are the hallmarks of these marketleading products. The AllroundWork trousers are ready for any kind of work in any trade. FlexiWork trousers deliver superior freedom of movement. While LiteWork trousers keep you cool, dry and ventilated. Then there’s RuffWork trousers, reinforced and tough for the roughest work on site. ProtecWork protective wear for hazardous environments and certified High-Vis trousers when personal visibility on site is a priority.

Getting information on the Snickers Workwear trouser families is easy. You can call the Snickers Helpline on 01484 854788, checkout the website at www.snickersworkwear.co.uk or email sales@hultaforsgroup.co.uk

♦ Ideal for energy-saving automatic lighting control ♦ PIR occupancy switches with built-in photocells ♦ Free-to-download DANLERS iOS and Android app ♦ Easy-to-use; optional security settings ♦ Versions for switching & for DALI & 0-10V dimming ♦ Programmable setback light levels and fade rates ♦ Upgradeable via over-the-air updates for extra features such as group control and asset tracking

DANLERS Lighting Controls T: +44 (0)1249 443377 E: sales@danlers.co.uk www.danlers.co.uk

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Snickers Workwear Trousers also deliver certified protection with the patented KneeGuard System for greater flexibility, comfort and durability. It’s what makes them the optimal choice for craftsmen and women who need to get every job done comfortably and sustainably on site.

new website

LEIGHTON HOUSE REOPENS TO THE PUBLIC FOLLOWING BDP’S £8M TRANSFORMATION Leighton House, the remarkable studiohouse of Victorian artist and former President of the Royal Academy, Frederic, Lord Leighton (1830-96), is set to reopen to the public in October 2022 following an £8m transformation.

ituated on the edge of Holland Park in London, Leighton House is famed for its opulent interiors, including the extraordinary Arab Hall featuring exquisite mosaic floors and tiles acquired through Leighton’s travels to Turkey, Egypt and Syria. The project has focused on the twentiethcentury additions made in a new wing at the east end of the original house. The project has revealed original historic features and created new exhibition spaces and displays. The De Morgan café opens onto the redesigned garden, a new Learning Centre and a collections store are now open to all with full step-free access provided across the building for the very first time. Designed by architects, engineers and consultants from BDP, the project also sees the recovery and restoration of parts of Leighton’s house, previously lost in changes made in the twentieth century. Leighton’s Winter Studio, an extension of the original house,

RIGHT The Arab Hall © Leighton House, RBKC. Image courtesy of Will Pryce

“This project will have a transformative effect on the museum, allowing it to be accessible to all for the first time, and provide excellent visitor and collection care facilities. This refurbishment supports the museum’s ambitions to safeguard and preserve the integrity of the original house, while meeting the needs of new audiences and cementing it as unique asset for the borough.” LEFT Leighton House © Nick Caville, BDP

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BELOW Leighton House © Leighton House, RBKC. Image courtesy of Jaron James

supported on cast iron columns and built at the end of the 1880s to allow him to work through the winter months, is now fully restored and integrated into the rest of the historic house interiors. The Entrance Hall has been reinstated as it was in Leighton’s day, featuring a large painting from the workshop of Domenico Tintoretto, which formed part of Leighton’s original collection. A separate entrance to the house, specifically used by Leighton’s models, is also revealed. The new wing features a series of commissions that respond to the iconic interiors of the historic house and continue the house’s unique dialogue with artists and craftsmanship from the Middle East and North Africa. Oneness, the first contemporary artwork on permanent display at the museum, is an 11-metre-high mural hand-painted by the Iranian artist Shahrzad Ghaffari, which envelopes the curved walls of a new helical staircase across three floors. Inspired by a 13th century poem by Rumi exploring cultural unity, its turquoise calligraphic brushstrokes reference the distinctive tiles from the iconic Arab Hall. David Artis, Architect Director at BDP, said: “This project will have a transformative effect on the museum, allowing it to be accessible to all for the first time, and provide excellent visitor and collection care facilities. This refurbishment supports the museum’s ambitions to safeguard and preserve the integrity of the original house, while meeting the needs of new audiences and cementing it as unique asset for the borough. Leighton House is one of London’s great houses and we are very much looking forward to seeing it reopen to the public at a time when such places are needed more than ever.”

Leighton House will reopen its doors to visitors in tandem with its sister museum, Sambourne House - a virtually unaltered Victorian terraced house nearby that provides a unique window into the art and society of the era. Daniel Robbins, Senior Curator of Leighton House and Sambourne House, explains: “The culmination of this many-sided project marks a truly transformational moment where both Leighton House and Sambourne reopen under a joint vision, intended to widen appreciation and enjoyment of Victorian culture, while forging meaningful connections with the contemporary world.” Councillor Emma Will, Lead Member for Culture, Leisure and Community Safety at Kensington and Chelsea Council, said: “We are thrilled to unveil the newly refurbished Leighton House. The major works bring about marked improvements to this beloved cultural venue such as a new lift and upgraded facilities, ensuring all of our residents and visitors can access the museum. As we continue to improve our cultural offerings in the borough, it’s vital that we look at making these experiences accessible and enjoyable for all.” The capital development of Leighton House has been supported by Kensington and Chelsea Council and the Friends of Leighton House alongside a £1.6million grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

“We are thrilled to unveil the newly refurbished Leighton House”

BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED. CREATED FOR LONGEVITY

ELISA LAUNCHES ANTONELLA PREMIUM TAP COLLECTION Exclusive British bathroom brand Elisa has announced the availability of its new line-up of premium taps: the Antonella collection.

esigned to complement the recently-launched Elisa Emilie and Rosa modular concealed mixer shower range, homeowners can select from a large and small single lever pillar tap, a discreet and elegant wall mixer tap, and a stunning free-standing bath filler with shower attachment. Making an attractive statement within any home interior, all models

Range includes single lever pillar and wall mixer taps, plus free-standing bath filler with shower attachment.

are offered in a choice of classic chrome, brushed brass or a matt black finish with an on-trend, minimalist profile that adds a touch of understated luxury – creating the ultimate contemporary bathroom environment. Beautifully crafted and engineered to last, Antonella taps are manufactured from high quality brass and feature easy-to-clean surfaces. Each tap delivers ultra-smooth movement and precise water flow control, and comes with a matching pop-up waste. Furthermore, Antonella taps are effortless to install, and are suitable for high pressure and combi systems. Every model is backed by a five year guarantee from the premium British bathroom manufacturer, and the full range complies with Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) criteria for quality.

The Antonella collection will be available from premier bathroom showrooms from the end of July 2022.

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For more information on the Elisa collection, please visit: www.elisabathrooms.com

Every model is backed by a five year guarantee from the premium British bathroom manufacturer, and the full range complies with Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) criteria for quality.

Company News G F TOMLINSON DONATES £35,000 IN SERVICES TO CHARITY PARTNER TREETOPS HOSPICE Midlands-based contractor G F Tomlinson and its partners Arc Partnership and Perfect Circle have donated more than £35,000 in services to end-of-life charity partner Treetops Hospice, as part of its Local Communities Partnership Programme.

D DIAMOND BUILD AWARDED £4.4M SCHOOL REFURBISHMENT CONTRACT Diamond Build PLC has secured a £4.4m contract to refurbish a Surrey-based primary school.

ocated in Guildford, Bramley Oak Academy caters for boys aged 5-11 with Special, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. The project will enable the school to reach wider numbers of children requiring SEMH support and provide a more suitable environment for learning. Diamond Build PLC will be responsible for transforming a two-storey building spanning 1,700 sq m. Internal walls will be demolished to create larger teaching spaces, followed by structural works and a full fit out. The entire mechanical and electrical system will be replaced and new partitions, ceilings, doors, fixtures and fittings installed. The scope of works also includes associated landscaping and perimeter fencing.

Working to a tight construction programme, Diamond Build PLC is scheduled to be on site for 37 weeks. Simon Wildes, Commercial Director at Diamond Build PLC, said: “This is an extensive refurbishment which we will be delivering in four phases. The first two will need to be completed by the beginning of September, ensuring a significant part of the work is carried out during the summer holidays. The remaining works will be completed while the school is occupied and will require very stringent measures to minimise the impact on pupils and staff. “We will be working closely with the school to make sure the children’s SEMH needs are considered throughout the project, including minimising noise.”

uring the last 12 months, G F Tomlinson has been working closely with the hospice to provide advice and project management services on a pro bono basis, to aid in Treetops’ aims to improve its estate, including staff offices and external landscaping at its main site in Risley, Derbyshire. The Local Communities Partnership Programme is a collaborative initiative developed by G F Tomlinson, which is aimed at supporting communities and charitable bodies within the region. It is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to delivering social, economic and environmental benefits to the local communities in which it works through the SCAPE Regional Construction framework, a direct award framework that drives collaboration, efficiency, time and cost savings. Treetops Hospice, which provides care and support to more than 3,000 local people every year, was selected as the finalist following a ‘Dragon’s Den’-style event last year. G F Tomlinson and its partners, Arc Partnership, a joint venture between Nottinghamshire County Council and SCAPE, and Perfect Circle, have provided over 325 hours of time and expertise to the hospice, equating to £35,000, and is the equivalent cost for Treetops Hospice to do one of the following:

• • •

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•

provide an at-home nursing service for five weeks allow for nurses to be at the bedside of 324 terminally ill people allow for roaming nurses to respond to 515 calls for help during the night allow for its counsellors to be there for more than 90 children when someone close to them passes away

Working together, the partners have provided Treetops with designs and budget advice for landscaping and boardwalk improvements to increase safety and accessibility of their grounds. They have also provided professional services for structural assessment, design and costing to enable the reconfiguration of hospice offices and backroom spaces to provide improved working areas for their dedicated and caring staff.

AQUALISA EXPANDS MIDAS 220 MIXER SHOWER RANGE WITH ON-TREND BRUSHED BRASS AND MATT WHITE MODELS British shower specialist Aqualisa has extended its iconic Midas 220 mixer shower line-up with the addition of two new ranges in Brushed Brass and Matt White – meeting the growing consumer demand for new options and colourways in the bathroom brassware sector.

quipped with a thermostatic brass body and brass handles, and featuring cool touch surface technology, the Midas 220 series is engineered to exceptional standards. Furthermore, the range complies with Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) quality criteria for extra peace of mind. Three options are available in each new colour: Midas 220 Single Outlet Shower The high-performance single outlet Midas 220 provides a consistently safe and satisfying shower experience. Built from brass, this fully thermostatic bar mixer shower features a 130mm three spray mode handset with rub-clean jets, which can be easily adjusted to numerous heights and angles. The shower comes with a 1.5m smooth metal hose and a brass handset holder.

“The Midas 220 series continues to be one of our most popular ranges, combining outstanding performance with elegant styling, reliability and ease of installation. With its trusted, iconic design now available in Brushed Brass and Matt White, homeowners have even greater choice to make a striking, contemporary statement in their family bathroom, shower room or ensuite.”

Midas 220 Dual Outlet Shower Sleek and versatile, this wall-mounted exposed bar valve shower includes an integrated diverter for a conventional adjustable handset shower, or an invigorating overhead drencher shower from a generous 245mm fixed deluge head. This model incorporates a telescopic shower column for additional installation flexibility, making it suitable for a variety of showering set-ups. The 130mm three spray mode handset is equipped with rub-clean jets for easy maintenance. Midas 220 Bath Shower Mixer This space-saving option provides the

perfect combination of shower and bath fill for a flexible family bathroom experience. The quality engineered, brass deck-mounted valve delivers excellent flow rates to fill the bath quickly, as well as ensuring a powerful and energising shower – all with the safety assurance of thermostatic temperature control. Rub-clean jets on the 130mm three spray mode handset ensure effortless cleaning. An easy-fit bracket is included with each product for added convenience. The Aqualisa Midas 220 collection is backed by the Aqualisa five year guarantee. Mike Simpson, chief marketing officer at Aqualisa, commented, “The Midas 220 series continues to be one of our most popular ranges, combining outstanding performance with elegant styling, reliability and ease of installation. With its trusted, iconic design now available in Brushed Brass and Matt White, homeowners have even greater choice to make a striking, contemporary statement in their family bathroom, shower room or ensuite.”

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The new Aqualisa Midas 220 collection in Matt White and Brushed Brass will be available from the end of July 2022. The range is also available in Chrome and Black Metal finishes. For further details, please visit: https://www.aqualisa.co.uk

Project News DIY SOS TEAM HEADS TO LEEDS FOR THE BIG BUILD BBC CHILDREN IN NEED SPECIAL WITH BBC RADIO 2 In September, DIY SOS will be partnering with Radio 2 for the very first time, to deliver this year’s BBC Children in Need Big Build. In one of their biggest challenges yet, DIY SOS will build a brand-new home for Leeds based, BBC Children in Need funded project, Getaway Girls.

his unique and special build, was announced on Monday 25th July by Nick Knowles, live on Zoe Ball’s BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show. Radio 2 is helping deliver this fantastic outreach project to build a lasting legacy in Leeds as part of Radio 2 Live - which is taking place at Temple Newsam Park in Leeds on Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th September, featuring performances from a star-studded line-up of artists. DIY SOS Children in Need 2022 will see Nick Knowles, and his trusty team of Chris, Jules, Billy & designer Gabrielle Blackman joined by BBC Radio 2 presenters, who will don their steel toe capped boots, high viz and hard hats to help make a difference. They’ll be joined by an army of volunteers to create the charity’s new building - from the ground up in just nine days. The new building will be sited in Seacroft and will provide a much-needed safe space for vulnerable girls and young women living in Leeds. They’ll be able to access support and

forward to seeing this amazing DIY SOS build come together for Getaway Girls and the support from our friends at Radio 2, who together will create a lasting legacy in Leeds.”

advice. The new building will include offices, a creche, activity spaces, a music and media studio, counselling rooms and a garden. Getaway Girls is a 35-year-old charity which supports a diverse range of women and girls from across the city, with a focus on raising aspirations, providing support and creating opportunities to help them reach their potential and build a better future. Getaway Girls also works with those facing a variety of different challenges and barriers in their lives: from newly arrived refugees to girls who have experienced domestic violence, exploitation or sexual abuse. The charity delivers crucial support to around 800 girls and young women, while also providing access to activities such as residential weekends, music sessions and sport. It strives to improve mental health and helps girls to develop confidence and improve self-esteem, raising their aspirations for the future. BBC Children in Need has funded Getaway Girls since 2010. Nick Knowles, Presenter of BBC One’s DIY SOS said: “We have another huge build ahead of us in Leeds, which will make a real difference to the lives of girls and young women who are supported by Getaway Girls. If you have a trade, a skill, can spare some time to graft or can help us with materials then get in touch. It’ll be a blast.” Tommy Nagra, Director of Content at BBC Children in Need added: “We are so looking

Helen Thomas, Head of Radio 2 said: “For the first time, Radio 2 Live is heading out of London - coming to Leeds for a weekend of incredible live music for thousands of music fans. As part of our commitment to delivering outreach work to support the local community we are honoured that our brilliant presenters will be getting stuck in and helping deliver this important build for Getaway Girls, working alongside DIY SOS and BBC Children In Need.” Flavia Docherty, Director of Getaway Girls said: “We are thrilled to have been given this amazing opportunity and couldn’t be more excited for the future of the charity.”

“The new space will provide the chance for us to support even more girls from across the city, and make a positive difference in their lives.” “We are so grateful to the whole DIY SOS team, Radio 2 and their presenters and, of course, BBC Children in Need for supporting us for 12 years - without their funding we wouldn’t have been able to continue our work for this long and have the impact that we have done for girls and young women in Leeds over the years. We can’t wait to see the new space and we’re really looking forward to being able to grow even further and welcome more girls from across Leeds to Getaway Girls!” Across Leeds, BBC Children in Need currently funds 28 projects to the value of £2million supporting children and young people. DIY SOS charitable builds are hugely ambitious and rely on the generosity of trade volunteers and company donations and so is appealing for tradespeople including; electricians, plumbers, carpenters, plasterers and decorators to offer support with the transformation in September. There will be a Trades Day held in Leeds on Tuesday 16th August 2022.

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Those interested in volunteering as a professional trade or donating product to this charitable build must email: diysosleeds@bbc.co.uk before Trades Day to arrange an appointment to meet with the team.

The build will commence from Tuesday 13th – Thursday 22nd September 2022. The episode will be broadcast on 1st November 2022 as part of BBC Children in Need.

CISTERMISER TACKLES LEAKY LOOS HEADON WITH THE LAUNCH OF EASYFLUSHEVO Cistermiser, the UK’s leading provider of commercial washroom water management solutions, is delighted to announce the launch of its unique EasyflushEVO range, which will revolutionise WC flushing by bringing together the previously unattainable benefits of non-touch and leak-free flushing. The patented flush design means there is no flush seal below the waterline, so unlike traditional flush valves, it will not leak due to debris, scale or seal degradation.

ichard Braid, Cistermiser MD comments: “We all know as an industry how much water is wasted through leaking toilets. According to experts Waterwise, a leaking toilet wastes between 215 and 400 litres of clean drinking water on average every day. Between 5 and 8% of toilets are estimated to be leaking, adding up to around 400 million litres of water leaking from UK toilets every day. Against a backdrop of the climate crisis and the Road to Net Zero, losses like these are clearly unsustainable.

“Simple to install for both new build and retrofit/refurbishment, the EasyflushEVO is a sensor-activated WC dual flush valve

that improves hygiene by preventing the cross contamination of pathogens with non-touch controls. Manufactured to high standards, the stylish and rugged sensor plate is made from stainless steel and has the option for mains or battery power, out of the box as standard. The patented EasyflushEVO dual flush valve provides the optimum hygiene and intuitive sensor design and is available to order with a 1.5” or 2” outlet fitting. “As part of our investment into this unique range, we are also launching the EVO CISTERN which offers a non-touch leak-free flushing solution, complete with the EasyflushEVO flush valve, a fill valve and concealed cistern with 1.5” flush pipe outlet and flush cone. “As we introduce EasyflushEVO to the market, sustainability remains a key consideration: the role that efficient water solutions can play in the fight against climate change has never been more important. Collectively we need to innovate and invest along the entire supply chain and that’s why we have developed the EasyflushEVO

another industry first for Cistermiser, who continues to lead the way in water efficiency management solutions” Dr. Nathan Richardson from water efficiency NGO Waterwise adds: “Waterwise are really excited to see the EasyflushEVO range entering the market. We have been highlighting the huge amount of water wastage from leaking toilets for several years and so we are thrilled to see Cistermiser launching a product that has been specifically designed to resolve this issue”.

The EasyflushEVO range will be available to purchase from plumbing merchants and distributors from July 2022. For more information or to request technical information call 0118 969 1611, or email sales@cistermiser.co.uk. For more on all our other products, www.cistermiser.co.uk

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“That’s why the launch of EasyflushEVO, calculated to save up to 78,475 litres of water per unit per annum, is so significant. Although it may not singlehandedly solve the water wastage problem, it goes a long way to raising standards and is just one of the many highly innovative approaches we’ve taken to help address this industry-wide problem.

“According to experts Waterwise, a leaking toilet wastes between 215 and 400 litres of clean drinking water on average every day. Between 5 and 8% of toilets are estimated to be leaking, adding up to around 400 million litres of water leaking from UK toilets every day.”

WHEN DOES COST OUTWEIGH CONSERVATION? Paul Trace of Stella Rooflight discusses the importance of maintaining the historical integrity of buildings during an economic downturn.

t’s hard to imagine a tougher economic climate. Having emerged from the pandemic, businesses and homeowners are beset by the rising costs of fuel and materials, economic shockwaves from the war in Ukraine and stark warnings of 11% inflation from the Bank of England. This is compounded by ongoing building supply issues that are still being experienced as a result of Brexit.

As the cost of most building materials such as timber, steel and glass continues to increase, the impact will most keenly be felt among those working on self-build, renovation and extension projects.

As the cost of most building materials such as timber, steel and glass continues to increase, the impact will most keenly be felt among those working on self-build, renovation and extension projects. No doubt, this perfect storm of economic woe has resulted in the postponement of many such project, however, for those that are pressing on, most will be looking to cut back on budgets in whatever way they can and compromises on quality are inevitable. Fortunately, when it comes to the majority of building projects, especially new build or modern homes, there is plenty of choice out there for most materials and components, and shopping around a little can yield useful savings. However, if your project is historically sensitive, for example a Listed building, barn conversion or a property in a conservation area, then choices may be more limited.

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There are many examples of imitation ‘conservation’ products on the market, for example plastic being used as a

replacement for cast iron rainwater goods, windows and rooflights. While these products might offer a cheaper alternative, there are few, if any examples where these materials should be considered appropriate. According to Historic England, the public body that looks after England’s historic environment, in their Materials for Historic Building Repairs article “The use of authentic traditional materials helps to retain the character of historic buildings and in turn supports traditional industries and vital craft skills. They argue that “some materials can actually harm the existing historic fabric and speed up deterioration”, and urge for consideration to be given to “the potential durability of the material used and its future maintenance requirements”, they conclude in saying “what might seem like the cheapest option might not always work out so in the long run”. Looking more closely at the rooflight market; just because something is sold as a conservation product, that doesn’t automatically make it suitable for all building types. If a rooflight is going to be introduced it has to meet the conservation specifications of that particular area or type of building. If your building is Listed or in a conservation area then the criteria for using conservation rooflights are much stricter and you should always gain approval, not only for their use but also the manufacturer that you would want to use. There are only a handful of companies that specifically make conservation rooflights and even fewer who design, manufacture and assemble in the UK. Many conservation rooflights available online are simply other products which

have been spruced up to look like they meet the requirements of that type of product. There are many elements which go into a genuine conservation design and price is always a reflection on quality. If a conservation rooflight is all frame, then there is little point in having one. Genuine conservation designs should be manufactured with slim, clean lines and a low-profile to match the roofline. A number of skylight companies try to produce conservation rooflights using modern bulky aluminium or plastic profiles, which sit proud of the roofline, particularly slate. It is widely accepted that most authentic conservation rooflights are manufactured from steel because it provides great strength while offering a slim profile and excellent glass to frame ratios. There are many types of steel conservation rooflights and for unrivalled protection and lifespan, one should always consider 316 stainless steel, which will protect against the common issue of rust. Consideration should also be given to the viewable area of a rooflight. Large rooflights do not always guarantee lots of light and you should always check what the finished viewable (often referred to as clear viewable) area of the rooflight will be. You might think that a conservation rooflight

with a whole frame size of 900mm (w) x 1200mm (h) would have a similar clear viewable area regardless of the manufacturer, but you would be wrong and bulky framed modern types or the flat rooflights posing as pitched conservation styles will let in considerably less light than a genuine steel framed version. Understanding what constitutes a genuine conservation product is vitally important in an age where we are witnessing far too many cheaper, often imported, plastic products, being used in sensitive buildings across the UK. The use of such products very rarely contributes anything to historic character of a building, indeed the visual impact of using modern materials on older buildings usually has quite the opposite effect. While there is no denying that bone fide conservation products are more

Genuine conservation designs should be manufactured with slim, clean lines and a low-profile to match the roofline.

expensive - and hopefully the reasons for this have been demonstrated above - builders, architects and homeowners must resist the temptation to use alternative materials when looking at areas in which to cut back on budgets. As we continue to feel the economic squeeze we can only hope that decisions are taken in the best interests of the long term preservation of our heritage and that cost cutting does not end up having a long term impact on our important historical buildings.

For further information or to discuss your conservation rooflight requirement contact the Stella Rooflight team on 01794 745445 or email info@stellarooflight.co.uk www.stellarooflight.co.uk

Protects and Enhances

Natural Ingredients Highly Water Repellent Extremely Hardwearing Wood is Enhanced

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Environmentally Friendly! Osmo uses carefully harvested natural oils and hard waxes for its finishes.

BERT AND MAY’S FOUNDER EXPLAINS THE IMPORTANCE OF APPLIANCE CHOICE IN THE DESIGN PROCESS Bert and May founder Lee Thornley creates a stunning Scandiinspired haven complete with Fisher & Paykel appliances.

ee Thornley selected a full suite of intuitive and ergonomic Fisher & Paykel appliances to integrate seamlessly into his Scandiinspired kitchen where earthy, neutral colours create a backdrop for pops of colour and texture. Lee comments, “It was absolutely crucial to us that we included products that weren’t just able to deliver on performance but would also add to the overall aesthetic of the space. With a stellar reputation for creating stunning yet sustainable appliances that combine both form and function, Fisher & Paykel was an obvious go-to. Graphic shapes, smooth wood finishes and bold paint colour choices gives the kitchen personality and character, and these are perfectly complemented by the minimal palette of black glass and brushed stainless steel of the Fisher & Paykel appliances. “Our kitchen is a social kitchen and the easy-to-use appliances with their beautiful and intuitive control panels takeaway any stress from cooking or entertaining. The thoughtful double Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer fits seamlessly into the kitchen, making

ABOVE IMAGES

“Our kitchen is a social kitchen and the easy-to-use appliances with their beautiful and intuitive control panels takeaway any stress from cooking or entertaining.“ BELOW LEFT

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loading and unloading the dishes so much easier, while offering the practicality of storage for dirty dishes while the other drawer is on.” Lee is known for his creative eye, having renovated a boutique hotel in southern Spain, Casa La Siesta, which was built using salvaged materials and rare antique fittings sustainability was a top design priority.

looks-wise, they’re all super sleek and work coherently together within the space. “We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Fisher & Paykel to anyone else seeking design-forward appliances that really deliver on performance too.”

“We also love the fact our new appliances are energy efficient and built to last, so we can be sure we’re running our kitchen with sustainability in mind”, says Lee. “We chose a complete suite of Fisher & Paykel appliances, the combination steam oven, self-cleaning oven, warming drawer, induction hob, integrated double DishDrawer dishwasher and a freestanding fridge freezer and could not be happier. As well as delivering exceptional results, each item is a joy to use thanks to state-of-the-art technology and innovative design details, while

Fisher & Paykel appliance details:

• • • • • •

Integrated Double DishDrawer™ Dishwasher, Sanitise (DD60DHI9) Freestanding French Door Refrigerator Freezer, 90cm, 569L, Ice (RF610ADJX5) Combination Steam Oven, 60cm, 9 Function (OS60NDB1) Oven, 60cm, 16 Function, Self-cleaning (OB60SDPTDX1) Warming Drawer, 60cm (WB60SDEX1) Induction Hob, 90cm, 5 Zones with SmartZone (CI905DTB3)

Coatings, Sealants & Paints LEEDS ART HOSTEL A newly renovated 19th century building in Leeds recently opened its doors to accommodate travellers. The new hostel has 12 truly unique rooms, all designed by local and international artists. Earthborn’s Claypaint was on hand to help these talented artists turn their ideas into reality. Hannah Platt, Assistant Manager at the Art Hostel, said “We approached Earthborn because of their highly recognised eco credentials and their breathable Claypaint. We wanted to collaborate with a paint company that cares about their carbon footprint and would also suit the needs of such an old building.” Hannah added “The artists found Earthborn’s Claypaint to be a refreshing change from normal paints. There was zero smell, the coverage was amazing and Claypaint has a beautiful palette of colours for our artists to work with. We highly recommend anyone to try Earthborn paint, you won’t be disappointed.” Claypaint is available from Earthborn’s network of distributors in its Classic palette of 72 colours, plus white and 12 Modern Country Colours. LEFT: In the Rainbow Lodge, clean flowing lines perfectly showcase a delicious array of greens including Gregory’s Den, Sunday Stroll, Grassy and Hobgoblin with White Clay as the perfect neutral base.

www.earthbornpaints.co.uk

BRADITE SALES TEAM PRACTISE WHAT THEY PREACH When decorators’ merchants Brewers decided to repaint the floor of their large King’s Lynn branch with Bradite Floor-It, they got more than they bargained for. Before

After

The job was undertaken by Bradite National Sales Manager James Burton, assisted by the firm’s South East Area Sales Manager Matt Tomkins. “We saw this as an opportunity to give the product a proper test and allow us to apply it in a practical real-life situation,” explained James. “As technical salespeople we offer advice on preparation and application daily, so it was nice to actually get out and put our knowledge to the test. Bradite Floor-It being a new product, it was good to get a feel for it and push it to its limits.” DP9 Floor-It is a high-performance coating formulated for use on factory walkways and general shopfloors. The low odour acrylic paint is touch dry in 30 minutes and re-coatable in one hour, qualities that were of particular importance to this sort of job as the shop remained open to customers while the repainting work continued, an aisle at a time.

Brewers Regional Operations Manager Marcus Elwin is delighted with the results. “This has proved a bit of a problem floor in the past and often had to be redone after 12 months. There are quite heavy carts going over it especially near the warehouse,” he said. And how did Bradite’s own senior people come to take on the job? “They said they wanted to try it for themselves and were only going to do a small patch at first, but then I guess they just got carried away!” DP9 Floor-It is an extremely durable product with first-rate adhesion and is mark, stain and petrol resistant and non-yellowing. It is ideal for use on internal and external surfaces such as wood, concrete, metal or asphalt as well as polyurethane, epoxy and chlorinate rubber coated floors. Although Brewers King’s Lynn had sold some of the product before the re-painting, sales have increased since the job was completed. “It’s a win-win situation,” says Marcus. “When customers say, ‘how does the product look’, we can say ‘you’re standing on it!’” www.bradite.com

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James and Matt were faced with an original two-pack epoxy coated floor that had failed in a number of places. They cleaned the floor using Bradite TD39 diluted with nine parts warm water, scrubbed it using a nylon broom, and rinsed with clean water, then mopped it dry.

Loose material was scraped away back to a firm coating edge, and any remaining original coating was lightly abraded to provide a key for two coats of the Floor-It. The job was completed within two days.

HOW TO CARE FOR AND MAINTAIN YOUR GLASS ROOF LANTERN, ACCORDING TO AN EXPERT Roof lanterns are beautiful, contemporary additions to any home’s design; if you have a flat roof, these instalments promise to enhance the room’s natural light and ambiance. Of course, their beauty comes from the clarity and openness that roof lanterns help to create – something which requires a little TLC. Thankfully, that needn’t be overwhelmingly difficult… with some expert guidance, you can easily maintain the exceptional quality and appearance of your chosen roof lantern, allowing it to continue shining year-round.

onathan Hey is the CEO of Aliwood Roof Lanterns and to help you care for your roof lantern, he’s sharing his seasoned insights, outlining essential steps that you ought to be taking as a proud home owner. You can thank him later! 1. Check your glass. ‘When it comes to maintaining the beauty of your roof lantern, it’s important that you check the glass regularly to ensure extreme weather conditions haven’t caused any damage. Consistently inspect the lantern to see if the glass is chipped or damaged, covering the corners too as these smaller areas are where cracks typically begin to form, often rippling towards the centre of the glass.

By spotting damage early, your roof lantern can be quickly and affordably repaired, allowing you to bask in its natural light without any concern or unsightly cracks.

By spotting damage early, your roof lantern can be quickly and affordably repaired, allowing you to bask in its natural light without any concern or unsightly cracks.’ 2. Don’t overcomplicate the cleaning process. ‘Fortunately, cleaning your roof lantern’s glass needn’t be complex; sometimes the simplest methods are the most effective. I would recommend using a non-abrasive sponge with lukewarm, soapy water and a microfibre cloth to use after the window has dried. Once your sponge has dried, dampen it and clean from the top of the lantern down, ensuring there are no streaks (no one wants water marks!), and, if possible, clean the window whilst someone is with you to help guide you both in cleaning and safely positioning yourself. Of course, you can easily source the services of cleaning professionals to assist with the up-keep of your roof lantern. After all, they’re not in a position that’s particularly easy to access… if you have any safety apprehensions, don’t oversee this cleaning process yourself. It’s also crucial that never stand on your roof lantern; they aren’t built with this resilience.’

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3. Avoid harsh chemicals and bristles.

‘As mentioned, the simplest cleaning techniques often prove to be the most effective with roof lanterns. Roof lantern glass is delicate, meaning even the slightest colour deterioration or damage detracts from their appearance; to protect yours, you should avoid harsh

chemicals at all costs, for they can severely damage the glass. Thankfully, you’ll have seen that simple soapy water does the trick. Equally, I would suggest avoiding cleaning tools like scrapers and brushes with harsh bristles; as you might imagine, this can scratch the glass and damage the finish of your roof lantern’s frame. Be as delicate as you can.’ 4. Cover the interior and exterior. ‘Cleaning a roof lantern does require careful attention to detail – focusing on its exterior won’t suffice. Instead, you must cover both the interior and exterior of the window; dust and cobwebs often collect on the inside corners of roof lanterns, so I wouldn’t recommend skipping this step! When cleaning the exterior of your roof lantern, you also shouldn’t focus solely on the glass. Moss and dirt can accumulate around the frame and look unsightly, particularly as this grows over the window itself. When stood safely facing the roof lantern, pick away this foliage and dirt to be disposed of. Garden gloves are a must here!’ 5. Remember the warranty. ‘A roof lantern is a big investment and, rightfully, trusted sellers offer warranties to ease your concerns and maintain the beauty of our roof lantern. For example, at Aliwood Roof Lanterns we offer a 5-year warranty for labour and 10-year warranty for parts. With this in mind, if any damage were to occur, you would automatically be covered. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case for every business. When buying a roof lantern, be sure to do your homework and research who you’re purchasing this from – a warranty is incredibly important.’ For more information about roof lanterns and how to care for your own, visit www.aliwood.co.uk

Doors, Windows & Fittings

TIMELESS ELEGANCE WITH GARADOR’S GEORGIAN DOORS Add timeless elegance to your property with Garador’s Georgian style garage doors.

ROSSO TECNICA is our new and exclusive range of European inspired designer levers. Manufactured from Grade 304 stainless steel and finished in a new selection of stunning hard-wearing finishes, these levers are the perfect accompaniment to the latest trends in interior fashion.

AS PART OF OUR ONGOING COMMITMENT TO REDUCE OUR IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONMENT, THE ROSSO TECNICA RANGE IS SUPPLIED WITHOUT ANY PLASTIC PACKAGING. NO POLY-BAGS ARE USED IN THIS RANGE.

T : +44 (0) 1228 672 900 E : sales@zoo-hardware.co.uk W : www.zoohardware.co.uk Rosso Tecnica is part of Zoo Hardware Ltd.

These stand out garage doors have been beautifully designed with deep, crisp panel pressings to add exceptional quality and style to the overall look. The more formal, traditional design will instantly enhance both modern and traditional properties in a variety of surroundings from suburban cul-de-sacs to period country homes. Each of Garador’s Georgian styles have been precision engineered with rivet free panelling to ensure the smooth, clean outlines of this special door. Available in a range of smart durable colour finishes, these doors stand head and shoulders above other panelled garage doors currently on the market. They are available in an array of standard and made-to-measure sizes for both single and double doors. Find out more about Garador’s Georgian garage door designs at www.garador.co.uk or ask your local Garador distributor.

CRITTALL WINDOWS HIT THERMAL TARGETS AT WORLD HERITAGE SITE Crittall Corporate W20 windows are an important component in the refurbishment and upgrade of a prominent industrial site in historic Bath.

It was recognised that retaining the original cast iron windows and introducing secondary glazing was neither economically viable nor appropriate aesthetically.

Newark Works is recognised as a masterclass in the retrofitting of heritage buildings that has transformed a former riverside heavy engineering factory into 21st century workspace.

“The slim profiles of the Crittall W20 system meant we didn’t have to compromise on the amazing amount of natural light coming into the interior whilst improving the air tightness and reducing the overall heat loss of the building through the windows,” said Brown.

The buildings, dating from 1857 to 1905, are Grade II listed and sit within Bath’s designated World Heritage Site. They were formerly the home of world-renowned crane makers Stothert & Pitt but had fallen into serious disrepair. Their location as part of a larger Bath Quays redevelopment spurred their re-use, underpinned by sensitive treatment, to create 40,000sq.ft of modern workspace. “We specified the Crittall W20 system to replace the existing, single-glazed, cast-iron framed windows that were at the end of their life and deemed beyond repair,” said Nick Brown, Director of Ferguson Mann Architects. He explained: “The Crittall W20 system was chosen due to the need to use a window system that could sympathetically reproduce the fenestration of the large industrial windows – many of which were 3.6m tall - but also provide a huge thermal improvement.”

He added: “Crittall were also able to recreate the opening vent arrangement of the existing windows, meaning we could also improve the natural ventilation provision to the new workspaces.” Consulting engineers Buro Happold calculated that just replacing the existing single-glazed windows with new double-glazed alternatives with a U-value of 1.8W/m2K would result in a 16 percent annual energy saving. That translated to 21.4 tonnes of CO₂. Over the building’s lifespan of, say, 25 years, that equated to a 535-tonne reduction in CO₂ emissions.

Summing up, Nick Brown comments: “Everyone is really pleased with the final result.”

www.crittall-windows.co.uk

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In view of the heritage credentials of the buildings, planners and conservation officers at Bath & North East Somerset Council were consulted on the desire to replace the original fenestration with likefor-like steel windows. The local authority was keen that the buildings should be brought back into use after several previous failed attempts. The wanted the site’s historic significance to be respected while avoiding the desire to turn Newark Works into a ‘museum piece’. The installation of Crittall W20 was approved and two of the original castiron windows have been retained and refurbished as a reminder of the original building but not in a way so as to compromise the improved thermal performance of the whole.

TOUCH IRONMONGERY LTD

YEARS 82

EST. 19

www.atouchofbrass.co.uk 210 Fulham Road, Chelsea London SW10 9PJ

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS One of London’s leading Architectural Ironmongers

riginally called “A Touch of Brass”, TOUCH changed their name in 2003 in reaction to advancing market changes in architectural Ironmongery to reflect the broader range of products and finishes that they sell. In fact today Touch supply 20 different finishes including Brass, Satin Brass, Polished Chrome, Polished Nickel, Satin Nickel, Copper, BMA, Antique Brass, Black, Pewter, Ceramic, leather, Stainless Steel, Satin Stainless Steel, Gun Metal & 4 different shades of Bronze and the list keeps growing. Whatever finish you require, Touch can help you get the right look. Touch occupy their recently refurbished showroom at 210 Fulham Road, Chelsea, where they stock and display a vast range of their 5,000 products. With a customer base including Architects, Interior Designers, Builders and private Individuals who are interested in the quality end of the Ironmongery market, the company also have a healthy export market to all corners of the world, namely the Middle East, Europe and the Americas.

Touch Ironmongery’s owner and founder, Bill Benham, has 42 years’ experience in the Ironmongery trade, as does his colleague Jim Haselup. Saleem Qureshi is the newest member of our team and has 21 years’ experience, meaning their knowledge is unrivalled in this industry. The range of products supplied by Touch date from circa 1640 French (Louise XIV) and cover all subsequent periods (Georgian, Edwardian & Victorian), Art Deco and contemporary pieces also make up the product ranges. Touch showcases the very best of British manufacturing; the best ranges are still produced in the Midlands by craftsmen in factories dating back 200 years or more. Touch Ironmongery have recently become suppliers for Designer Doorware (Australia) Who have beautiful products with a cutting edge design Metal, Wood and concrete. We also have the exclusive rights to sell the Olaria (Barcelona) range in the UK. Olaria make all our bespoke products, they have incredible levels of workmanship.

Touch also sell European manufactured goods which are considered to be of a very good quality. With trends continuously evolving new and innovative products are constantly under development. Touch understand that keeping up with the fashion-shifts is imperative in order to provide every customer with the best solution for their requirements. Ironmongery can be a difficult and complicated aspect of a building project, as a result Touch aim to take this awkward aspect and make it user friendly and clear to understand by offering an on-site service where they carry out a detailed door by door, window by window, room by room Ironmongery schedule, highlighting all requirements and identifying all requirements. Restoration is a large part of the business Touch will undertake complete Ironmongery refurbishment projects, and can restore old paint covered door furniture to their former glory, looking as good as new again at a fraction of the cost to replace.

For more information about Touch Ironmongery or to arrange a showroom visit please call 0207 351 2255 or alternatively visit www.atouchofbrass.co.uk

BRITISH & EUROPEAN MANUFACTURERS

SUPPLYING THE FINEST QUALITY IRONMONGERY Touch combine traditional skills with modern manufacturing techniques to produce the most beautiful, quality fittings, built to stand the test of time. As well as specialist bespoke items, Touch supply over 1000 products, available in 23 different finishes to furnish high end residential and commercial properties, royal palaces, government houses, historic castles and stately homes. Olaria, available from Touch Ironmongery

www.atouchofbrass.co.uk & www.olariabarcelona.com

Events & Awards News GROHE WINS CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AWARD AT THE BKU AWARDS 2022 The kitchen and bathroom industry cast its vote as GROHE was announced as the winner of the Corporate Social Responsibility category at the BKU Awards, Friday 8th July 2022.

he accolade was awarded in front of KBB industry peers in an exclusive live ceremony hosted by stand upcomedian, Actor and TV presenter Ed Byrne at the Royal Lancaster Hotel. Ebru Bircan, Marketing Activation Manager for GROHE UK says: “We are absolutely delighted to have won the Corporate Social Responsibility category at the BKU Awards. “As a global brand we put a lot of resource, research, and funding into our goals towards

creating a more sustainable, fairer world. We strive to make a positive impact across areas of sustainability, education, and supporting the human right to clean sanitation facilities and will continue to do so. We’re humbled to have been acknowledged by our peers, colleagues, and customers in the UK for this work.” Thousands of industry professionals cast their votes in the first half of the year through a process which saw just five brands shortlisted for the Corporate Social Responsibility Award, with GROHE beating the fierce competition.

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experts at the Home Energy Academy. During the Home Energy Hour, industry leaders in home heating efficiency, will be talking on topics including how to retrofit and upgrade the heating in older homes, finding gas boilers, effective draft proofing, and more. Eco-expert David Hilton will de-mystify heat pumps and present other affordable and viable options, and spokespeople from show partners, the National Energy Association, and the Energy Savings Trust, will be on hand to give further guidance.

UK’S FIRST NATIONAL HOME ENERGY WEEK LAUNCHES TO HELP HOUSEHOLDERS ‘SWITCH OFF’ FUEL POVERTY

As well as providing a chance to find out about advances in eco and energy-efficient heating to tackle fuel poverty, the show will allow visitors to experience thousands of products from over 250 exhibitors. Masterclasses and seminars will be available on everything from planning and budgeting to choosing the right home technology and managing tradespeople. The Advice centre will provide opportunities to book one-onone advice sessions with architects, planners, and builders.

The UK’s first National Home Energy Week debuts from 26-30 September, ahead of this winter’s cold temperatures and expected higher energy bills, as the national energy regulator Ofgem is on course to raise the cap on household energy bills to nearly £3,000 in October.

One-day tickets to the London Homebuilding & Renovating Show are £12 in advance and two-day tickets are £18 in advance (children under 16 go free).

For more details visit https://london.homebuildingshow.co.uk/

he initiative, launched by Future plc, publisher of some of the world’s most popular magazines, will provide practical ideas and guidance on improving energy efficiency and home heating to help millions of people avoid falling into fuel poverty.

and realistic solutions for homeowners, landlords and tenants, especially those on fixed incomes. A host of advice and guidance will be available to householders across the channels of Future titles including Homebuilding & Renovating, Homes & Gardens, and Ideal Home.

National Home Energy Week will examine real-life case studies, from a terraced property to a period home, including buy-to-let flats, and demonstrate how accessible home energy options priced for different budgets can help people insulate and heat their homes efficiently at an affordable price that delivers a return on investment.

A key part of National Home Energy Week is the London Homebuilding & Renovating Show at ExCeL from 30 September to 2 October 2022. The event will offer visitors a completely new experience that will assist them with their home energy queries and projects.

Energy efficiency experts will cut through the hype, debunk the myths and offer pragmatic

Show goers wanting individual advice on how to save money on bills and reduce carbon footprints can talk to eco-focused

Events & Awards News DOUBLE SUCCESS FOR GLEEDS AT SCOTTISH DESIGN AWARDS

HOWDENS RANKED IN THE UK BEST COMPANIES LEAGUE TABLES Howdens, the UK’s number one trade kitchen supplier, has appeared in the top 5 ‘Best Big Companies to Work For’ league table for Q2.

ver 65% of Howdens’ 11,000 employees took part in the Best Companies engagement survey in March. Howdens’ final place in the 2022 list will be confirmed later this year by organiser Best Companies. Howdens last participated in the survey in 2019, achieving 14th position in the 2020 Best Big Companies to Work For list. Andrew Livingston, Chief Executive Officer, Howdens, said: “To be included in the top 5 Best Companies rankings is a fantastic result and a testament to the unique culture that all Howdens’ employees help to create.

“To achieve such consistently high scores demonstrates how much we care and invest in our people. We value the feedback the survey provides and it enables us to focus on the areas where we can get even better. “

The full breakdown of the Q2 League Tables can be found on the Best Companies website www.b.co.uk/league-tables

he Scottish Design Awards have been celebrating class-leading work, best practice, sustainability, and innovation in architecture and design for 25 years. After a two-year hiatus from in person events, they set out to honour the ‘best of the best’ at this year’s anniversary dinner, dedicated to shining a light on exceptional talent and projects from across Scotland. The sustainably designed Laidlaw Music Centre at the University of St Andrews took home the award for best public building, while the £23 million Campus Central development was named best education project. The £12.5 million Laidlaw scheme is the first building dedicated to music in the University’s 600-year history and features one of the world’s first chamber halls with a moveable floor and 9m reverberation chamber. Meanwhile, Campus Central is the inspiring new home for the University of Stirling’s Student Services Hub, the Macrobert Arts Centre’s box office, Institute for Advanced Studies, and a host of flexible spaces for the student community.

Two further Gleeds projects were also nominated but narrowly missed out on awards. The HALO Enterprise & Innovation Centre for the HALO Urban Regeneration Company on which Gleeds acted as cost manager was shortlisted in the regeneration category, while the historic Gladstone’s Land building for National Trust Scotland, on which Gleeds building surveying team was appointed, was up for best interior design project in the interiors category. Scott Ewing, regional director for Scotland at Gleeds, said, “I was incredibly proud to see no less than four Gleeds projects nominated at this year’s Scottish Design Awards, and of course thrilled that both Campus Central and Laidlaw Music Hall were recognised as best in class in their respective categories. “These prizes acknowledge the stunning designs of PagePark and Flanagan Lawrence architects, and the team here at Gleeds is delighted to have played a role in bringing their visions to fruition. We are lucky enough to work on some fantastic projects here in Scotland, and I have no doubt that we’ll get to celebrate many more successes in years to come.”

“These prizes acknowledge the stunning designs of PagePark and Flanagan Lawrence architects, and the team here at Gleeds is delighted to have played a role in bringing their visions to fruition.”

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As part of the process, Howdens has also retained its 2-star accreditation awarded by Best Companies in recognition of its ‘outstanding’ commitment to employee engagement, benchmarked against hundreds of other companies in the UK.

International property and construction consultancy Gleeds is celebrating after two projects on which it acted as project manager scooped gongs in the architecture category at the Scottish Design Awards. Campus Central for the University of Stirling and Laidlaw Music Centre for the University of St Andrews were two of four Gleeds schemes to be nominated for prizes.

CHURCH CONVERSION WILL BE A GODSEND TO COMMUNITY UFCM and Ace Concrete Flooring were called upon when a heating solution was needed for a new centre for disabled children in north east England. St Williams Church, in Dormanstown, Redcar, has been renovated to become a respite centre for children with disabilities after the site was leased by Ark Consultants.

rk Consultants had been in contact with the Newman Trust, which offers holidays for children with disabilities, and became aware of a significant shortage of places for children in the Redcar and Middlesbrough area. To address this need, the company bought the disused church with a plan to convert it into a full-service respite centre with provision for overnight stays. They needed a heating solution for the building that would be efficient and effective enough for the large space while also removing the potential dangers to the children - and design limitations of – multiple radiators. Ark called in Ace Concrete Flooring Solutions, based in Thornaby-on-Tees, and commercial underfloor heating specialists UFCM.

“Large buildings of this type are ideally suited for underfloor heating as it offers the most efficient solution to ensure a consistent temperature while keeping costs much lower than alternative systems.”

A UFCM underfloor heating system was chosen to avoid radiators throughout the building making it a safe environment and having a good control of heat throughout. They installed a wet underfloor staple system at 150mm centres to the ground floor over 200m2. They also installed a low-profile crate system at 150mm centres on the first floor. A fast-drying cementitious screed was applied to both floors at approximately 50mm covering a total of 200m2 on the ground floor and 100m2 on the first floor. The product with the fastest curing time available was chosen in order not to delay the opening as the local need is so great. When Ark initially started looking at the project before lockdown there were 68 children in the Redcar area who didn’t have any provision for respite care but now the figure is 120. Ark have worked closely with stakeholders including the local childrens’ care commissioning team on the design of the church refurbishment. The new centre is due to open in July 2022 and will feature nine beds for overnight stays and specialist accessible wet rooms.

Luke Greenwood, Specification Manager at UFCM, said: “We were delighted to be able to contribute to this amazing project which is going to be so vital for so many people in the local community. “Large buildings of this type are ideally suited for underfloor heating as it offers the most efficient solution to ensure a consistent temperature while keeping costs much lower than alternative systems.” Sarah Linskey, Contracts Director at Ace Concrete Flooring Solutions, said: “We thoroughly enjoyed this project from start to finish.

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“As this beautiful building is being converted into a respite centre for children with disabilities of course we were honoured to be able to take part. I’d like to thank UFCM for their full support from the offset and during the whole project until completion.”

Ark have worked closely with stakeholders including the local childrens’ care commissioning team on the design of the church refurbishment. For technical advice on heating solutions for large projects see https://www.ufcm.co.uk

Floors & Flooring FAST-TRACK FLOORING REFURBISHMENTS Flooring installation products from the UK’s leading manufacturer of subfloor preparation products and adhesives for floorcoverings, F. Ball and Co. Ltd., are now available that enable floorcoverings to be installed in less than a day, ideal for refurbishment projects that are subject to tight time constraints. For creating a perfectly smooth base for the receipt of new floorcoverings, the fastest setting levelling compound on the market, F. Ball’s Stopgap Fast-Track 30, is ‘walk-on’ hard in 30 minutes and ready to receive new floorcoverings from just 45 minutes. Where old adhesive residues (including bitumen and carpet tile tackifiers) are present after the removal of old floorcoverings, contractors can save time by using a levelling compound that has been specially formulated for use over old adhesive residues, which would otherwise require mechanical removal. One such product, Stopgap 1200 Pro from F. Ball and Co. Ltd., takes as little as 60 minutes to set and is ready to receive floorcoverings from just four hours. When it is applied over old adhesive residues, there is no need to prime beforehand, saving further time. Website: www.f-ball.com

A MODERN RETREAT IN THE CAPITAL: THE STANFIELD ROAD PROJECT WITH HAVWOODS Located in north east London is the beautiful Stanfield Road residential project. This terraced property with its stunning period features, including arched windows and a brick façade, has had an interiors transformation with new wood flooring supplied by Havwoods. Providing seamless wood flooring solutions, Havwoods’ Cottage Character in Herringbone from the V Collection was specified for its warm tones and natural beauty. With its rustic hues and character grade markings, these planks are an ideal choice for either traditional or modern interior spaces, adding depth and charm.

Used throughout the ground floor of the property including the hallway, kitchen and living space, the on-trend herringbone design allows for a seamless flow from room to room – complementing the natural light and white walls. The design is Scandi-inspired and paired back, with matt black cast-iron radiators and blue statement furniture acting as a contrast against the natural materials. The tropical wallpaper in the hallway and the cabinetry in the kitchen follows the blue theme, resulting in a striking space. Offsetting this colour palette are the soft furnishings in colourful, earthy tones, perfectly matching the warm undertones of the flooring. With the help of Havwoods, this home has been transformed to create a comfortable and inviting space. With an array of herringbone flooring solutions available, there is a style to suit any interior design scheme.

Photography: © Scopic Pricing: Cottage Character in Herringbone from the V Collection starts from £59.95 per m2

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Website: www.havwoods.com/uk Email: info@havwoods.com Phone: +44(0)1524 737000

People On The Move NEW HEAD OF INTERIORS FOR HLM ARCHITECTS Andy Illingworth has been promoted to Head of Interiors at HLM Architects, he will lead the practice’s 19-strong interiors team.

ndy joined HLM Architects in July 2002 as a member of the interior design team and for the last 20 years has worked on a variety of projects and different design disciplines, from concept and development, construction information and specification, to onsite delivery.

An accomplished designer, Andy has a breadth of sector experience, including healthcare, education, commercial, and hospitality. More recently, he worked on the prestigious Royal Hospital for Children and Young People & Department of Clinical Neurosciences, creating the interior and wayfinding vision. Andy led the interior design team through the design development process, managing the interior design alongside a therapeutic arts programme involving over 20 projects. He coordinated the interior element from conception to completion, ensuring the project exceeded the client’s expectations. In his new role as Head of Interiors, he will continue to work with clients and colleagues and lead the interiors team. Andy said: “Driven by a commitment to creating spaces that improve people’s lives, our interiors team has a strong track record of designing and delivering high quality projects for clients. We’re strengthened by the passionate and creative individuals who make up our team and are excited for this next chapter, which I’m proud to lead in my new role as Head of Interiors.”

FISHER & PAYKEL WELCOMES NEW HEAD OF MARKETING TO THE TEAM Fisher & Paykel has appointed Emma Russell as its new Head of Marketing. In her role, Emma will be responsible for leading the brand’s development and communication strategies.

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ith over 12 years of marketing experience working within both agency and in-house marketing teams, Emma Russell has developed a customer success philosophy that is sure to bring a wealth of knowledge to her new role at Fisher & Paykel.

Emma joins Fisher & Paykel from Valda Energy, where she worked as Marketing Manager for three years. Prior to this appointment, Emma worked across a variety of sectors, including luxury goods, where she has honed her expertise in brand development and awareness. In her spare time Emma likes to cook, whether it’s for a catch up with friends and family served with a good glass of wine, or baking cakes with her youngest son. Emma also has a real passion for rugby, either playing it or watching it. “I am thrilled to be joining Fisher & Paykel at such an exciting time in the company’s history”, comments Russell on her new role, “The KBB industry has seen a massive boom in sales, with the recent shift towards hybrid working. More people than ever are spending increased amounts of time in the home and are therefore looking to connect with their environment. With this shift in mind, the renovation industry seems to be reaching new audiences every day. “I’m looking forward to bringing my passion for brand development to this new role and to develop Fisher & Paykel’s brand awareness through new communications platforms and brand experiences, complementing our visions for growth in the luxury and premium space.”

GLEEDS’ PM BECOMES YOUNGEST EVER TO ACHIEVE CHARTERED STATUS Bel French, infrastructure project manager with international property and construction consultancy Gleeds, recently became the youngest person ever to meet the Association for Project Management’s Chartered Project Professional (ChPP) standard at just 22 years old.

el joined the construction sector straight after taking her A Levels and completed her NVQ Level 4 Associate Project Manager Apprenticeship while working on a range of infrastructure projects and programmes. As part of this, she completed her APM Project Management Qualification (PMQ) and Agile PM Foundation exam. Bel says, “I was fortunate to have found my project management apprenticeship, something that I could get excited about. “I never specifically considered a career in construction but naturally gravitated in my applications to the construction and infrastructure companies because of the legacy and impact that the projects have in people’s day-to-day lives. I have grown a real passion for construction, specifically rail projects. “Completing my ChPP really proves that there is a career progression in the industry for school leavers. I’d love for more people to see what a great sector it is, which is why I act as an APM Apprenticeship Ambassador.”

BIG BRANDS AND NEW NAMES! THE FLOORING SHOW 2022 Harrogate Convention Centre will open its doors to visitors from the 18-20th September for three days of business and networking. This year also signifies 60 years of this annual event, celebrating the largest show dedicated to the flooring industry in the UK.

ith just under three months to go until The Flooring Show opens, exhibitors are preparing to showcase new and innovative collections of carpets, LVT, rugs, tiles, vinyl and much more. It is a must-attend event for anyone in the industry and will bring together retailers, suppliers, manufacturers and contractors for the biggest show in the industry calendar. Suzy Makin, Sales Manager said “We are delighted to be inviting many new exhibitors to Harrogate for the first time. “With so many companies from across the industry joining us this September, visitors can expect to see innovation in abundance as well as the latest market trends.”

“With so many companies from across the industry joining us this September, visitors can expect to see innovation in abundance as well as the latest market trends.”

New names joining The Flooring Show this year include: ANTA Scotland, Aydin Textiles, Carpenters Limited, Central Floors Ltd, Corkart, Eva Life, Flokser Tekstil, Floorify, Gaziflex, HFD Scotland, Independent Flooring Group, Işik kadif, Kährs, Kensington Trims, Roomvo, LX Hausys, MN Floor Training Limited, McAlpine Kneepads, Mink Teks, Modevsa Carpet, My Hali, Nurteks Hali, Jaspa Woven Ltd, Oneflor UK, Oznur Crapets, Ozerdem, Perincheril Rubbers, Rana Hasir, Riviera Home UK, Sihirli Hali.Stain-Shield Ltd, Strata Sales Ltd, Tremco CPG UK Ltd, Treeven, Verhoek Europe, Yuseal Ltd, plus many more!

- Suzy Makin, Sales Manager

Big names already confirmed to exhibit at the show include: Abingdon Flooring, Associated Weavers, Ball & Young, Berry Alloc, Bostik Limited, Cavalier Carpets, Cormar Carpets, F. Ball & Co Ltd, Furlong Flooring, Interfloor, Kellars, Lano N.V, Lifestyle

This year also signifies 60 years of this annual event, celebrating the largest show dedicated to the flooring industry in the UK. Floors, Likewise Floors, Millennium Weavers, Penthouse Carpets, Q A Flooring Solutions Limited, Texfelt Ltd and Victoria Carpets & Design Floors. As well as seeing your favourite brands and meeting new suppliers, The Flooring Show is also a great opportunity to gain new skills, learn business tips and tricks, see live demonstrations and much more. With so many features, it is set to be a jam-packed event in what is a bumper year for the show. Registering in advance is the only way to guarantee you and your colleagues receive free, fast-track entry into the event. Don’t miss out on exclusive show deals, seeing the latest market trends and watching the suspenseful ‘Fitter of the Year 2022 competition – Carpets’. Click here to register for your complimentary ticket to the industry event of the year. Key information:

www.theflooringshow.com Opening Hours: Sunday 18 September 9.30-17.30 Monday 19 September 9.30-17.30 Tuesday 20 September 9.30-15.00

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Dates: 18-20th September 2022 Venue: Harrogate Convention Centre, King’s Rd, Harrogate, HG1 5LA

LUXURIOUS PRIVATE OFFICES IN MAYFAIR Kitesgrove Designs Private Offices in the Style of a Residential Townhouse. London based design studio Kitesgrove has re-structured and re-designed a Grade II Listed townhouse in the heart of Mayfair, built around 1755 and which functioned as a working bank for the majority of the twentieth century, to accommodate a suite of offices with a quietly luxurious aesthetic more akin to a residential property.

itesgrove was commissioned to transform the building from a semi-derelict state into a welcoming and organic space with a warm palette of natural materials. Undertaking a complete renovation, Kitesgrove oversaw a reconfiguration of many areas as well as a full refurbishment and decoration, resulting in a professional space with a quiet sense of luxury that feels sophisticated and inviting.

Kitesgrove introduced a house palette which created architectural consistency across the property.

The spaces are filled with carefully curated furniture, lighting, accessories and soft furnishings specified from brands renowned for craftsmanship and quality such as Rose Uniacke, Soane, Porta Romana, The Invisible Collection, Julian Chichester, George Smith, Collier Webb, Howe, Fiona MacDonald, The New Craftsmen and Ochre. Continued >>>

Keeping the brief for a calm and welcoming space in mind, Kitesgrove introduced a house palette which created architectural consistency across the property, allowing each space to feel individual but connected. Details include the same characterful timber flooring from Havwoods used throughout to the soft, muted green and blue colour palette and the bronze ironmongery punctuating the space. A Bauwerk Limewash nontoxic paint was specified from the Ground Floor Entrance Hall and Staircase throughout the whole property. The organic, relaxed nature of the paint finish creates visual impact and a less formal feel which beautifully juxtaposes the grandeur of the building, while helping to highlight its traditional architectural features. Kitesgrove has created a space both welcoming and memorable for visitors, with an enhanced sense of calm and wellbeing for the staff who work there, by using a variety of natural materials and soft, muted colours. Nuanced mid-tones of blue and green set an inviting atmosphere, with the subtleties of Farrow and Ball’s De Nimes, Mizzle, Inchyra Blue and Green Smoke transforming throughout the day in the light-filled rooms.

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Details include the same characterful timber flooring from Havwoods used throughout to the soft, muted green and blue colour palette and the bronze ironmongery punctuating the space.

For the office spaces on the First and Second Floors, Kitesgrove chose a palette which was more neutral in tone with a shift in the design towards cleaner lines and a mixture of antique and modern furniture. For the client’s family office on the Third Floor, the palette echoed the organic feel and natural palette on the Ground Floor, with a focus on Mid Century artwork, and furniture from George Smith, The New Craftsman and a rug from Sinclair Till, offsetting the original beams of the building.

“When we were first appointed on the project, the property was in total disrepair, so the experience of reinstating the building’s original identity and grandeur has been a real privilege.”

Kitesgrove was careful to retain and restore historical elements of the building where possible which included reinstating a cantilevered stone stair from the Ground Floor to the First Floor - a truly showstopping architectural design feature.

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Out of respect for the original architecture, all elements which were replaced were done so with profiles that were historically accurate to the original era of the building, including windows, doors, architraves, skirting and cornicing.

The design team reconfigured the basement completely from one large open plan space to house a fully equipped gym, separate male and female changing rooms offering a modern necessity in this luxury refurbished residential setting.

“We tried to create interiors that people wanted to spend time in, with a quiet sense of luxury that felt sophisticated but inviting. Our client is also our landlord – the Kitesgrove studio is located in the building so it has been particularly fun project for us to work on.” Kitesgrove’s Head of Design, Clara Ewart explains, “When we were first appointed on the project, the property was in total disrepair, so the experience of reinstating the building’s original identity and grandeur has been a real privilege. “Whilst differing in terms of the ergonomic design, such as how people would ultimately move around the spaces between desks and spending long hours in meeting rooms, our approach to the feel of the space was very similar to a residential property. “We tried to create interiors that people wanted to spend time in, with a quiet sense of luxury that felt sophisticated but inviting. “Our client is also our landlord – the Kitesgrove studio is located in the building so it has been particularly fun project for us to work on.”

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FURNITURE AND HOME GOODS MAKERS URGED TO USE HOME IMPROVEMENT BOOM AS CATALYST FOR DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION Made Smarter releases free guide for SMEs in the sector. British Furniture Confederation praises success of North West Adoption Programme.

urniture and home goods makers are being urged to use the ongoing home improvement boom as a catalyst for digital transformation. The sectors, which produce sofas, beds and furnishings, face a challenging time following the pandemic, Brexit and rising inflation. However, the huge demand for interior design, home and garden products and customisation, as well as a further shift to online shopping - driven by lockdown-induced focus on home upgrades in 2021 - looks set to continue, presenting a significant opportunity to manufacturers.

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The ongoing renovation boom means the UK furniture and furnishings market, worth an estimated £14bn and the second largest in Europe, is estimated to grow by around 3% in 2022.

Almost 140 SMEs are working with Made Smarter’s Adoption Programme in the North West to navigate the multitude of challenges and capitalise on changing trends. By tapping into impartial expert technology and skills advice, and digital transformation workshops, Made Smarter are helping them take their first steps.

The ongoing renovation boom means the UK furniture and furnishings market, worth an estimated £14bn and the second largest in Europe, is estimated to grow by around 3% in 2022. BELOW Jonathan Hindle, BFC chairman

Rob Langford, CEO of Starlight Bedrooms in Bolton

BOTTOM

Meanwhile, many of them, supported by matched funding, are investing in new digital technology to become more efficient, build resilience, increase productivity and sustainable growth, and create new high-value jobs.

opportunity to innovate and transform. Businesses working with Made Smarter over the last three years have shown that investing in technology and digital skills can build resilience and enable them to keep up with the fast moving industry.

Made Smarter, which has supported hundreds of businesses to deliver an additional £176 million in gross value added, is now keen to reach more SMEs across the furniture and home goods supply chain. They have produced a free guide to help demystify digitalisation and drive technology adoption.

“Digital tools can help manufacturers make marginal savings, set themselves apart from competitors in a volatile time, make products quicker, affordable and more efficiently.

The downloadable guide showcases the benefits of digital technology, how to get started, the top five technology trends across the sector, and case studies of businesses supported by Made Smarter, including furniture maker Starlight Bedrooms and fabrics and upholstery expert Panaz. Donna Edwards, Programme Director for Made Smarter’s Adoption Programme in the North West, said: “While UK manufacturing is facing a challenging time, it also presents an

“Working with Made Smarter we are helping businesses introduce technologies incrementally, making the most of funding and support to minimise the impact on budgets. “To help demystify digitalisation and help SMEs to their first step, we have produced some vital guidance as well as explain why implementing digital tools is such a priority in this sector.” Bolton-based furniture manufacturer, Starlight Bedrooms, turned to Made Smarter to digitalise their manual and paper-based processes – and keep ahead of their competition. The business invested in a bespoke customer management system, which integrated with new CAD design and production software as well as their sales and marketing operations. Rob Barrows-Langford, CEO, said: “We operate in an extremely challenging and competitive market, so it is vital we keep up to speed with the technology trends available. “With this investment we can now quickly create room layouts and furniture and fittings configurations, send machine instructions to their production

plant, and have complete oversight of our entire sales and production pipeline to make more informed business decisions, eliminate bottlenecks, and minimise errors and waste. Working with Made Smarter has been incredibly valuable. The experience of creating a digital transformation roadmap and the subsequent support and expertise has given us a lot of confidence to invest in the tools and technology we need to take Starlight Bedrooms to the next level. Burnley-based Panaz, a leading supplier of high-quality decorative fabrics and wallcoverings for the hospitality, healthcare, workspace and contract sectors, leveraged the power of technology to boost their efficiency.

consequence, need to keep pushing the boundaries when it comes to technology investment,” he said. “Made Smarter has enabled us to get to where we want to be much, much faster.”

Working with Made Smarter they developed an end-to-end custom design and digital printing solution, which uses software to allow for design customisation and ordering in a single click. This has radically accelerated and streamlined processes from two weeks to one or two days, doubled their production capability, and significantly reduced waste. Meanwhile, the automation means Panaz can move its highly skilled design resource to more complicated design and range work.

Commending the impact of the programme, Jonathan Hindle, chairman of the British Furniture Confederation, a group which represents five of the main trade associations representing UK furniture manufacturers, said: “The tremendous success of the Made Smarter Adoption Programme in the North West, and the support it is now offering to the sector in other UK regions, has demonstrated the value of targeted support for SME manufacturers to help them take those first steps on their digitalisation journeys.

Rollie Attard, Chief Executive, said: “We see Panaz as being at the forefront of innovation within its industry and, as a

“The UK furniture manufacturing industry has a global reputation for

ABOVE LEFT

Burnley-based Panaz

Donna Edwards, Programme Director at Made Smarter North West Adoption programme ABOVE RIGHT

Digital tools can help manufacturers make marginal savings, set themselves apart from competitors in a volatile time, make products quicker, affordable and more efficiently.

quality and innovation, combining skilled design and craftsmanship with cuttingedge technology. To maintain that achievement and ensure the UK remains competitive against global competition, manufacturers need to embrace current and emerging technologies, and the huge potential digitisation offers, as well as to raise the skills and productivity of the people who work in our sector to the highest level.”

To download the free guide visit: https://www.madesmarter. uk/resources/guide-digital-technology-in-the-home-goodsand-furniture-manufacturing-sector/

Create a seamless transition from inside your home to your outdoor space with the Valverdi Indoor-Out range of co-ordinating porcelain tiles.

Visit Valverdi to view our full range of indoor-outdoor tiles:

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www.valverdi.co.uk

HEATING INSTALLERS SPLIT ON WHETHER TO BEGIN FITTING HEAT PUMPS, BAXI REPORT FINDS Training costs, lack of customer demand, and excess paperwork are main barriers to change. Installers will play a pivotal role in supporting homeowners with future heating decision.

he transition to low carbon heating is at finely balanced tipping point with installers split on whether they will be installing heat pumps in their customers’ homes. That’s the main finding of a new report from heat solutions provider Baxi which assesses what would encourage installers to take the leap to low carbon sources of heat.

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Baxi’s research with installers found that nearly a third – equivalent to about 37,000 of the more than 130,000 of the UK’s heating engineers – are prepared to embrace heat pumps in the near future. By contrast, around 30% say they are extremely unlikely to install heat pumps.

The government is targeting 600,000 heat pump installations every year by 2028. That is ten times the current market and represents a transformation from early adoption to a mass market proposition. It would require an army of low carbon heating installers to be assisting homeowners and encouraging to make the change.

“Installers will play an important role as we decarbonise the nation’s heating and it will be vital that the government and industry support them with the right information, incentives and training. They will need to be advocates for low carbon sources of heat and recommend to the nation’s homeowners that they should make the leap to a heat pump.”

Amongst the main findings in the report “Heating Installers: Taking the Leap to a Low Carbon Future” are that the government and the industry will need to address the important issue of training costs, ensuring there is enough demand from customers and reducing paperwork.

•

On training costs – 39% said they would be more likely to install heat pumps if they received help with training costs. They currently pay the full cost of training and forgo work in order to receive heat pump training On customer demand – 56% of installers said customer demand needed to be addressed and 38% of installers are concerned about lack of government support for the market. The current Boiler Upgrade Scheme which pays a max £5,000 grant to support air source heat pump installations ends in 2025. On paperwork – 44% wanted support to reduce the burden of paperwork, for example in applying for government assistance schemes

Karen Boswell, Managing Director of Baxi UK & Ireland, said: “Installers

will play an important role as we decarbonise the nation’s heating and it will be vital that the government and industry support them with the right information, incentives and training. “They will need to be advocates for low carbon sources of heat and recommend to the nation’s homeowners that they should make the leap to a heat pump. “To achieve this, we will need to address their concerns, support them with training, and explain more clearly the financial and non-financial benefits of these appliances.” Baxi’s report makes a series of recommendations which include spelling out stronger government initiatives that will drive demand for heat pumps over the coming decade; support for training costs on a first come-first served basis; and an industry wide campaign to market the role of a low carbon heating installer to attract new entrants. For more information, and to download the report, click here

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WE ASKED ECO-MATERIALS SUPPLIER ECOMERCHANT TO HIGHLIGHT SOME POPULAR RETROFIT MATERIALS AND ASKED IF THEIR INCREASING POPULARITY COULD BE LINKED TO CURRENT AND PROPOSED REGULATIONS Arguably the primary requirement to note for retrofitting is that when energy efficiency work is done in existing homes, the ventilation must not be made any worse, in line with existing measures for controlled services and fittings.

The retrofit market is large and growing, fuelled in part by the need to make our buildings more energy-efficient and resilient but also to help meet our nationally declared carbon targets.

What is driving change?

he 2022 introduction of changes to the Approved Documents includes changes to part L (for energy efficiency), plus a new part F (for ventilation), and the introduction of part O (for overheating) are applicable to retrofit provide that “building work” shall be carried out so that it complies with the requirements contained in Schedule 1. The regulations apply to any retrofit project that falls under the definition of “building work” including the material alteration of a building, where the work would result in the building no longer complying with a previous requirement and certain energy efficiency improvements including the renovation of individual thermal elements or change in the energy status of the building. If a project had Building Regulations approval before 15 June 2022 then the old standards still apply, you have until 15 June 2033 to begin the work before the approval lapses. Hidden away in plain sight in part L is the option to gain compliance through reaching threshold U values and demonstrating a payback of under 15 years rather than simply sticking to the headline U value.

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Part L now allows for U-values up to 0.70 for walls and floors and 0.35 for roofs where improvements are made to existing elements providing certain criteria are met. If achieving improved U-values either:

ABOVE Blowerproof Liquid Applied Membrane. Blowerproof Brush being used on a retrofit project to make the wall/floor junction airtight. www.blowerproof.co.uk

a. is not technically or functionally feasible or b. would not achieve a simple payback of 15 years or less then the element should be upgraded to the lowest U-value that both: a. is technically and functionally feasible and b. can achieve a simple payback not exceeding 15 years. An example of something that is not technically feasible would be when a system requires breathable insulation with a higher thermal conductivity when non-breathable insulation with a lower thermal conductivity is proposed. Natural insulation materials are a perfect solution for broadening the range of applications that are in full compliance with the updated regulations and also meet the U value and hygrothermal requirements of the element to be upgraded. This is of significant benefit for solid wall applications where synthetic alternatives may create additional moisture control issues. The updated building regulations are intended to improve energy efficiency and require a combined approach to reducing air leakage and increasing the thermal efficiency of the building shell. Both are closely linked as is clear in the new regulation’s guidance notes. Improvements must link improved thermal performance to sufficient or adequate ventilation.

The use of natural materials, for retrofit projects, seems to be being driven by several factors, but as new regulations make few positive changes to retrofit, we need to look elsewhere for guidance (or activity) that is driving the use of natural materials, specifically in retrofit. Firstly, is the acceptance that many synthetic materials have been over-specified and so broadly used that in many applications there are better performing natural materials so it’s simply a performance-based decision to specify them. Supporting this observation is the recently published BEIS Guidance on internal wall insulation which is clear on the role of natural materials as part of the moisture management strategy for retrofit, stating ‘The lowest risk designs for internal wall insulation are consistent with the existing moisture strategy of the building. For solid-walled (traditional) buildings, this is likely to be moisture open, so capillary active insulations (such as wood fibre) and vapour open adhesives and finishes should be chosen. This does not involve the use of vapour barriers but will include an air barrier. This allows drying to both sides of the internal wall insulation and therefore maintaining the moisture balance within the wall.’ Other bodies such as London Energy Transformation Initiative’s (LETI) Climate Emergency Retrofit Guide highlights the use of natural materials as a carbon store, to mitigate moisture issues and the preferred option for solid wall applications. The RIBA 2030 Carbon Challenge makes decarbonising the UK Housing Stock a key ambition for both operational and embodied carbon. As more architects and specifiers become aware of these materials so their use increases. Natural materials provide a route to sequester carbon within the building fabric whilst offering improved thermal performance and reduced operational carbon, so both storing and saving carbon. There are extra benefits such as the ability to buffer moisture, the absence of toxins or harmful chemicals (off-gassing) plus performance gains when managing overheating. Many natural insulation materials are dense (wood fibre can be up to 256Kg/ m3 providing a significant increase in phase shift slowing down heat

transfer, for rooms in the roof or lighter weight timber construction, this is a considerable benefit. Will Kirkman from Ecomerchant also noted “even just two years ago we would field lots of calls from architects and specifiers wanting ‘from scratch’ advice on building sections, now the great majority of the enquiries we get are for details to be checked rather than designed, there is no doubt that architects have become much more accustomed and adept at including natural materials in their projects”. Meeting and going beyond the current regulations through creative choice of materials can solve many of the issues experienced in delivering high-energyefficient upgrades to existing buildings. Ecomerchant has highlighted three products that have a proven track record in high-performance retrofit projects that can help deliver results.

Breathable, natural insulation. Wood fibre flexible batts and rigid carrier boards. Insulation is a key component of most retrofit projects and the increase in wood fibre use over the past few years has been steady but the take-up since 2020 has been exceptional. Wood fibre is a versatile product, which offers desirable performance characteristics for renovations. Being vapour permeable it helps buffer moisture, its density (up to 256Kg/m3) protects against overheating and its natural makeup alleviates concerns over synthetic ingredients and poor indoor air quality. The flexible batts are popular for installation between studs and the dense rigid boards for carrying render or plaster either internally or externally on timber frames or direct to masonry or brick.

Insulation and damp control Calcium silicate boards; the elimination of mould and subsequent reduction in health issues has driven sales of SkamoWall Board.

The calcium silicate board is part of a system which includes adhesive, primer and plaster that combine to create a buffer to manage moisture, improve insulation and eliminate mould. The board’s inert chemical structure renders it incapable of supporting mould growth. The improved insulation and breathability of the system allow ventilation to harmlessly remove moisture from the building. The plastered board acts as a vapour control layer whilst remaining breathable. The SkamoWall Board has been a favourite of landlords and owners of older buildings with solid walls where persistent problems often cause unwelcome maintenance costs and tenant complaints. Calcium silicate boards are non-combustible with an A1 fire rating.

Airtightness for retrofit Liquid applied airtight membranes first arrived in the UK around 6 years ago. The idea that an airtight membrane could be spray or brush applied was ground-breaking despite the use of similar means of application for protective coatings and waterproofing. Blowerproof was first introduced to the UK by Ecomerchant in early 2016. The product became BBA certified (the first to do so) in 2017 and was quickly picked up by the Passive House sector. Over the past few years, liquid applied membranes have seen exceptional growth as the demand for airtight buildings increased. The ultimate application came in spring 2019 when the Imperial War Museum archive used Blowerproof to create the most airtight building in the UK (ACH 0.03) for storing its priceless archive of documents. For the refurb sector, the use of liquid applied membranes is a game-changer. The water-based VOC-free liquid can be applied to almost any surface even in the trickiest and most demanding applications it creates a permanent flexible layer which allows airtightness

ABOVE A whole house retrofit of a 1930’s detached house. The timber framing is to be filled with wood fibre batts. www.steico.co.uk

For the refurb sector, the use of liquid applied membranes is a gamechanger. The water-based VOC-free liquid can be applied to almost any surface even in the trickiest and most demanding applications it creates a permanent flexible layer which allows airtightness to be delivered where previously achieving high levels was nigh on impossible. Blowerproof can be applied directly to brick, masonry, stone and concrete. LEFT

Skamowall calcium silicate board being used to eliminate damp and cold issues in a basement refurbishment. www.skamowall.com

to be delivered where previously achieving high levels was nigh on impossible. Blowerproof can be applied directly to brick, masonry, stone and concrete. Using these products remains a matter of personal choice where the benefits are desired but not mandatory within building regulations. Additionally, limits on design imposed on a retrofit project can be a factor where a significant uplift in performance can be achieved through upgrading the building fabric where options such as orientation, outward changes to shape or ‘look’ or modifying the footprint are not possible so forcing a more open and creative approach to problemsolving. The UK construction sector knows that there are widespread problems with carbon, energy, moisture, ventilation and health in our housing stock. But still, many persist in partial and piecemeal solutions, apparently oblivious to the interactions between these problems and the need for a holistic approach. A change of attitude and major upskilling of refurbishment operations are required to deliver effective solutions to the enormous backlog of remedial works required to deliver the healthy, comfortable, and affordable homes that are essential if the UK is to meet its carbon targets. The significant uplift in specification and use of materials like the ones highlighted by Ecomerchant indicate to us that this process is underway and that there are many who will not wait for legislation to catch up. In fact, those who build to higher than mandated standards now may well reap extra benefits in the future when others are faced with costly upgrades simply to bring buildings into compliance or reduce running costs.

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Website: www.ecomerchant.co.uk

INTERNATIONALLY ACCLAIMED INTERIOR DESIGNER JO LITTLEFAIR REVEALS HER TOP TIPS FOR LIGHTING Internationally acclaimed interior designer Jo Littlefair has revealed her top tips for lighting both residential and hospitality spaces.

aving amassed an unmatched level of expertise and with a career that includes multiaward-winning hotels, restaurants, spas, wellness centers, and luxurious residences such as The Mayfair Townhouse in London, Villa Copenhagen in Denmark and The Gleneagles Hotel in Scotland, Jo is well-equipped to provide invaluable advice on using and commissioning lighting to set the right atmosphere. Bespoke lighting features, in collaboration with innovative makers, are characteristic of the design studio and makes for unique and striking interior schemes. Grant light the attention it deserves “Lighting should never be underestimated, not only is it essential for various tasks but it has a huge impact on the ambience of a room and consequently how people feel and react in the space. If you have the ability to plan the architectural lighting of a space, that is the lighting that is fixed to the framework of the room, then consider how the light sources themselves can be concealed in coffers or by lighting shelves of a bookcase for example. Don’t ignore the obvious places where you need task lighting such as above a sink, I

ABOVE

Jo Littlefair

“For the Mayfair Townhouse wanted each space to have its own design language therefore each space has its own decorative lighting design. To emphasise the residential feel there are multiple designs of lighting which also create a lovely, layered feel.”

kitchen work surface. Ideally I like to be unable to see the light source itself and just feel the benefit from the effect”.

did this once and my husband has never forgiven me! Then ensure that they are on different, dimmable circuits so that layers of light can be turned on or off to achieve the perfect setting. Ensure there is as much side light as possible, by which I mean side and table lamps as well as wall lights, which gives flexibility to move light around a room and highlight dark corners or create a reading chair without flooding the whole room with light and essentially killing any atmosphere. Sideways light is always more flattering than anything from directly above!” Bear in mind architectural lighting “Architectural lighting, such as concealed tracks or directional spotlights, are absolutely key. Think of your room as a canvas with areas in focus and areas in darkness and ask yourself what you want to highlight and what you want to knock back into shadow. For example, accentuate the texture of a tongue and groove clad ceiling by washing it with an LED track, pin spot columns with floor recessed uplights and consider the use of concealed LED tracks to task light a

Make decorative and key lighting decisions “Architectural lighting can be even more concealed and instead place an emphasis on decorative lighting as the design of these pieces add soft personality and texture to the spaces. For the Mayfair Townhouse wanted each space to have its own design language therefore each space has its own decorative lighting design. To emphasise the residential feel there are multiple designs of lighting which also create a lovely, layered feel. It was about a richness of material to convey luxury and indulgence, using brass, alabaster, pleated silk and hand-crafted glass.” Focus on ambient light “Ambient lighting in a restaurant or bar is absolutely key to giving the desired atmosphere and consequently influencing how people spend time in a space. Establishing whether the offer is a quick turn-around breakfast or lunch space, for example, or a long, layered and leisurely experience dictates whether lighting levels should be high or moody and atmospheric.”

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Always remember what light brings to a space

“Lighting truly helps to create and emphasise that residential and intimate feel that we wanted to achieve for The Mayfair Townhouse. It creates a sense of warm and invites you into the space. Standing on the street at the entrance of the hotel, it’s the lighting that catches your eye and draws you in, especially the feature lit gantry above the bar which is made up of individually hand cut glass feathers. The lighting works seamlessly with the design as a whole, it’s a delicate balance of traditional and contemporary”.

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TR STUDIO CONVERT LONDON TERRACED HOUSE INTO HIGHEND CONTEMPORARY RENTAL APARTMENTS Located in the affluent residential neighbourhood of West Hampstead, with its picturesque village and prime postcode lies LS Apartments, a set of modern rental apartments designed by architectural and interior practice TR Studio for contemporary London living.

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orking closely with the client, who wanted to create a set of three apartments that felt spacious, design-led and appealing to renters, TR Studio proposed a concept that included an extension and full refurbishment turning the terraced property into a two-bedroom ground floor apartment with private garden access and a garden studio; a first floor one-bedroom apartment with dedicated study; and a twobedroom duplex split over the second and third floor complete with roof terrace.

In the ground floor apartment, TR Studio oversaw the construction of a new side return extension. The extension, which added 12 sq meters of extra space to form an open plan kitchen, diner and living space, utilised London stock brick to compliment and seamlessly blend with the original Victorian terrace. Lead glazed doors connect the space to the small patio and garden and introduce extra natural light.

Adding extra value and appeal to the prime ground floor unit, the practice used part of the private garden to construct a small 20 sq meter single story annex. Timber clad with large floor to ceiling lead glazing and an interior with exposed London stock brick, roof joists and a wood burner stove, the garden studio provides a flexible space functioning as a home office or guest accommodation. Inside the ground floor apartment, within the main spacious and versatile open plan room, the studio added a punch of colour and a focal point with a bespoke kitchen in deep green. Using only base units to seamlessly integrate appliances and provide storage, open shelving on the walls created a sleek, contemporary look. Walls are painted in a fresh and neutral clay hue with statement lighting, solid timber flooring and mid-century styled furniture in a curated palette of neutrals and mixed materials.

Leading from the main space, a small inner courtyard with skylight pulls through natural light to the middle of the apartments floor plan and connects to a double bedroom. A hallway with soft, curved walls and bespoke built-in storage creates a natural flow through to the front of the building where a bathroom and a master double bedroom are located. Within the first-floor apartment, complete with roof terrace, a similarly contemporary and rich interior scheme with bespoke design elements was applied. In this more compact kitchen, diner and living space located at the front of the building, the room was divided into two halves. In the kitchen, both base and wall units were used to maximise the space available. To add continuity to the set of three apartments, the same green palette was used along with a grey marble splashback. Cast iron radiators and Buster + Punch lighting add a level of refinement and industrial styling whilst also complimenting the old brick feel of the original building. Zoning the interior and adding a flexible living space within the room, TR Studio created a unique storage wall employing both alcove shelving and custom-made drawers. Balancing the need for openness, alongside colour and texture, sliding perforated metal screens further the industrial language in a dark, steely grey hue which add visual contrast and character. Leading towards the rear of the property, a bathroom, study and a double bedroom with access to the roof terrace make up the rest of the apartment’s floor plan.

Project: LS Apartments Client: Private Residential Architect: TR Studio Location: West Hampstead, London Area: 200 sqm Build: Bhuva Construction Interior design: TR Studio Kitchen: TR Studio + Howdens Bespoke joinery: TR Studio Year: 2017 Photography: Billy Bolton In designing the third residential unit, TR Studio oversaw a loft conversion to create a duplex apartment spread over the second floor and third floor. Here, the studio again utilised London stock brick alongside standing seam zinc work. Housed within second floor are two double bedrooms, one with ensuite and a master bathroom. Connecting the second floor to the converted third floor loft space is an open tread staircase. With access to a small roof terrace from the half landing, the space is flooded with natural light. Housed within the converted third floor loft is the open plan kitchen, diner and living space, designed to mirror the aesthetics of the light and airy ground floor with custom made base units, open plan shelving and architectural lighting. A dormer window and skylight add further to the spaces impressive use of natural lighting. Utilising the natural incline of the roof, built in cupboards and drawers set within the eaves provide extra storage space. Continued >>>

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On show across the three private residential units that form LS Apartments, are signature TR Studio design and architectural devices used to ensure each individual area of the rental units feel connected, well balanced and with an enhanced natural flow. Balancing a desire to create sophisticated interiors that appeal to a young professional demographic whilst being budget conscious, TR Studio combined bespoke joinery, considered design details and contemporary fixtures and furnishings to create a sense of home and successfully fulfil the requirements of the landlord as well as potential renters.

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The extension, which added 12 sq meters of extra space to form an open plan kitchen, diner and living space, utilised London stock brick to compliment and seamlessly blend with the original Victorian terrace.

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THE ROYAL MARINE HOTEL BRORA REVEALS A PREVIEW OF £1.6M REFURBISHMENT Highland Coast Hotels is pleased to share a preview of the extensive and exciting renovation of the Royal Marine Hotel, Brora ahead of its formal reopening. Situated only a little over an hour’s drive from the city of Inverness in the North Highlands, the hotel has undergone a total refurbishment of its 21 bedrooms.

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ll the public areas on the ground floor have also been renovated and the hotel is launching new food and beverage concepts, including the opening of The Curing Yard Restaurant, the Megan Boyd Bar, and the James Braid Lounge, all of which will serve meals.

Located in the historic coastal town of Brora, the Royal Marine Hotel’s new design reflects the beauty of the nearby stunning beaches just steps from the hotel, as well as an unspoilt wilderness of lochs, glens and mountains which are right on its doorstep. Guests are welcome to enjoy outstanding, fresh, local food with a range of new dining options as well as a challenging 18-hole links course at Brora Golf Club, a stone’s throw from the front door. Overlooking the quaint Harbour of Brora, and with a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, the Royal Marine Hotel guarantees a warm Highland welcome in spectacular surroundings.

Combining local heritage with country chic, the new interiors have a ‘Scandi-Scot’ feel, making the hotel airier and lighter but still maintaining its many beautiful traditional features and ensuring the theme centres on the story and history of Brora. The design was developed by ISA, an Edinburghbased architecture and interior design practice. The Highland community has been at the heart of every decision made by Highland Coast Hotels, with a Community Liaison Group acting as a forum for Brora locals to give feedback on plans. Local building contractors, joiners, suppliers and materials have been used wherever possible during the renovation. For example, the new, superquality beds have been sourced from Highland BlindCraft Beds, an ethically run business employing and supporting local people. Based in Inverness,. Since its inception in 1881, Highland BlindCraft Beds has provided education and employment opportunities

“The Royal Marine Hotel has been completely transformed. Whilst tastefully preserving its traditional charm and character, the refurbishment has certainly delivered the wow factor and it’s great to see this standard of facility on our coast.” to visually impaired individuals in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. Highland BlindCraft’s Executive Manager, Heather McDonald, says, “At Highland BlindCraft over 70% of our staff have a disability, ranging from audio-visual impairments to learning difficulties. The support from local business such as the Royal Marine Hotel allows Highland BlindCraft to continue its long-standing tradition of providing work and education for people in the Highlands living with a disability.” Other local artisans featured in the newly refurbished hotel include Sutherlandbased master potter Fergus Stewart and Sheenagh Harrison from nearby Tain, who creates Highland-inspired seascapes. This is in addition to Isle of Skye-based digital artist Cath Waters, whose inspiration comes from travels around the Highlands, Islands and West Coast of Scotland. The hotel has also used other Highland artists including Fenella Bound and Mouse MacPherson. The public spaces of the hotel also exhibit many atmospheric photographs of the region taken over a lifetime by the very highly regarded landscape and life and wildlife photographer, Glynn Satterley. Finally, the bespoke tartan blankets in all the bedrooms are from The Tartan Blanket Company and include

a Hunting Fraser Weathered Tartan in the Heritage Rooms and Buchanan Tartan in the Deluxe Double Rooms. Chairman of Highland Coast Hotels, David Whiteford comments “The redevelopment of the Royal Marine Brora is as much for the local community as it is for visitors to the North Highlands of Scotland. As always, much of our focus has been on showcasing, wherever possible a wide range of locally created products from suppliers, who, in turn, try and source their raw materials as close to home as possible.. We see this refurbishment as an opportunity to play our part in helping to fulfil the ambitious and exciting ‘Vision for Brora’. “We will also be delighted to reveal in more detail, in the forthcoming days, of our new food and beverage offers which pay tribute to the heritage and notable residents of the village from bygone days. We hope these new eating out opportunities encourage locals to utilise their community cards regularly in our outlets both in Brora and elsewhere.” The renovation at the Royal Marine Hotel is just the first step in Highland Coast Hotel’s substantial investment and modernisation programme. Continued >>>

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The group is strengthening the offer of its expanding portfolio of hotels on and around Scotland’s most popular coastal touring route, the NC 500, as well as boosting regional growth. The focus is also on creating environmentally-friendly hotels and supporting local communities and suppliers with new jobs and businesses created in the Highlands as a direct result of this investment. As a further example of the group’s commitment to the region, anybody living within 15 miles of a Highland Coast Hotel is eligible to apply for the new Highland Coast Hotels Community Card which provides a 30% discount in the restaurants and bars all year round, and a 50% discount off an overnight stay at any hotel (including the newly renovated Royal Marine Hotel), from October to March inclusive.

Local resident and member of the Community Group, Deirdre Mackay remarks, “The Royal Marine Hotel has been completely transformed. Whilst tastefully preserving its traditional charm and character, the refurbishment has certainly delivered the wow factor and it’s great to see this standard of facility on our coast. It’s also particularly welcome to see the life and work of Megan Boyd feature in the new bar which I’m sure will prove a particular draw to anglers the world over as well as preserving a special part of our local heritage.

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“Working with the local community Highland Coast Hotels are providing a range of training and employment opportunities as well as opportunities for food growers and local artisans. The introduction of the Community

Card has been warmly welcomed affording local people the opportunity to stay, and or eat, at any of the Highland Coast Hotels at discounted rates.” Highland Coast Hotels is expecting a strong summer season in 2022. With high occupancy levels already reported, the company is focused on guests who are looking to appreciate ‘slow tourism’, taking longer to enjoy restorative holidays whilst immersing themselves in the glories of the spectacular North Highlands.

Other local artisans featured in the newly refurbished hotel include Sutherlandbased master potter Fergus Stewart and Sheenagh Harrison from nearby Tain, who creates Highlandinspired seascapes. Please visit: royalmarinebrora.com highlandcoasthotels.com

Nature enhanced, for unreal results. Every now and then, something comes along to knock an original off its pedestal. Welcome then to Millboard decking. Through continuous research and development, meticulous attention to detail, expertise and innovation we’ve created a board that’s handmoulded from natural wood – and we think it could be better than the real thing. It won’t rot like real wood, warp like real wood or attract mould like real wood. It just takes the best of real wood and enhances it. Beautifully. Millboard: Live. Life. Outside. Discover the collection at millboard.co.uk

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