The Architectural Technologists Book, April 2023

THE ARCHITECTURAL TECHNOLOGISTS BOOK

THE CONTENTS PAGE

GATEWAY CENTRAL AND GATEWAY WEST BUILDINGS COMPLETED AT WHITE CITY PLACE

The Gateway Central and Gateway West buildings at the White City Place business campus in west London are now completed. Both Gateway buildings have a Platinum WiredScore, the highest certification for preenabled connectivity. Gateway Central is an eleven-storey building comprising 280,000 square feet of total floor area, including two outdoor terraces at Levels 4 and 8.

L’Oréal UK and Ireland have taken the five upper floors of the building for their new UK Headquarters and are currently fitting out the new space. The design of Gateway Central with its solar-control glass with shading from external fins and shelves – enables the building to use less than half the energy a comparable building requires to cool.

The building is targeting BREEAM Outstanding and an energy efficiency EPC ‘A’. The building will provide a unique opportunity post-COVID for L’Oréal to build a workplace for tomorrow, designed around modern working methods that encompass L’Oréal’s ethos of creativity and innovation. The new HQ will also feature a training academy, a flagship training hub which plans to upskill 10,000 hair professionals from across the country each year.

Gateway West is a four-storey building comprising 25,000 square feet which offers the rare opportunity to accommodate a stand-alone headquarters while also being flexible for a multi-tenanted occupation. It is a distinctive, angular brick and ceramic building, accessed via a new, landscaped public garden.

A collaborative approach to sustainability has resulted in a low level of embodied carbon in the building. It has also achieved 2025-2030 energy performance targets and the site now supports twice the previous levels of biodiversity, prior to its redevelopment. The building is targeting BREEAM Outstanding and an energy efficiency EPC rating of ‘A’. www.whitecityplace.com

AWARD WINNING, VICTORIAN TERRACED TOWNHOUSE, HIGHGATE LONDONLLI DESIGN

LLI Design recently completed a total redesign and refurbishment of a 5 storey, period terraced townhouse in Highgate, North London. LLI Design’s work was commended with an award in the Residential Interior Private Residence London category, of the United Kingdom Property Awards in association with Rolls Royce.

The award’s judging panel was chaired by Lord Caithness, Lord Best, and Lord Waverley, members of the House of Lords in the UK Parliament. Historic Highgate is filled with beautiful period family homes and this one was no exception.

Perched at the top of Highgate Hill commanding enviable views across London this 1860s house forms part of a terrace. The townhouse sits within the Highgate Conservation area, so any architectural amendments had to be approached in a sensitive manner. Although the brief was to keep the period feel of the building, it also required that a contemporary individual aesthetic should be overlaid in order to create easy open plan living spaces that worked for a modern lifestyle. (cont...)

(cont...) The house was tall and narrow but had the advantage of being quite long front to back. A major design problem which had to be addressed in the overall scheme was how to make the property feel visually more expansive laterally.

To answer the brief, the existing layouts required a total redesign, with careful consideration required to how the dynamics and flow of the spaces would feel. The direction adopted throughout was eclectic with elements of mid century, contemporary, industrial and traditional styling all coming together.

By way of reconfiguration, clever use of colour and lighting together with bespoke joinery elements, this property was completely transformed from a traditional layout 5 storey Victorian townhouse into a contemporary family living space. The design stayed true to the Victorian bones and features of the original.

At the same time it was able to offer the elements so desired of 21st Century living, being open plan, multi-functional spaces with large windows offering inside / outside living. LLI Design offers a comprehensive design service, taking projects from briefing through to Handover; creating beautifully crafted interiors for discerning clients. The creative team is led by Design Director Linda Levene. Her background as a fashion and textile designer is reflected in her love of form, texture and colour.

Recent projects include the interior design and modernisation of properties in Hampstead, South Kensington and Highgate including a 10,000 sqft Victorian residence, a 12,000 sqft new build home and the co-joining and replanning of two apartments to provide a single luxury penthouse. www.llidesign.co.uk

HAVING A FINGER ON THE CORPORATE PULSE

Ojmar, manufacturer of innovative high performance electronic and mechanical locks, is delighted to introduce OTS ® PULSE, the latest addition to the well-known family of locks.

Specifically designed for the Corporate and Leisure markets, OTS ® PULSE is the ultimate wireless networked locking solution that operates in highly secure cloud software. It uses the latest battery technology providing a life of up to 10 years before needing a simple battery replacement. This makes it one of the most efficient, longestlasting systems available on the market.

Fully plug-and-play, online, self-managed and wireless, the OTS ® Pulse will help your office be flexible at minimal cost. OTS®PULSE does not require any expensive servers, just a simple standard internet connection managed through a PC, tablet or smartphone. Samples, case studies and technical guidance are available from ojmar.com or look for Ojmar on NBS Source

UK’S FIRST ZERO CARBON MIXED USE SCHEME BANKS ON FHP’S BUILDING SERVICES EXPERTISE

National building services and engineering consultants FHP has been appointed to support the £2.5bn design and construction of the UK’s first zero carbon mixed use development for the Bankside Yards West project on the south bank of the River Thames. A key feature of the plans is sustainability, with the main Arbor office complex built to deliver a carbon neutral operation and achieve BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ status. 45% less carbon dioxide will be created during the building’s operation while a 30% reduction in energy consumption will also be achieved when compared to standard buildings.

www.fhpp.com

THE LATEST IN HEATING CONTROL

ESi Controls has launched its new, top of the range, 6 Series WiFi Programmable Room Thermostat, offering the latest in heating control for homes and commercial premises here in the UK. Fully OpenTherm compatible, this new range of controls allows full control via the room thermostat or via a mobile phone or tablet, with a range of features to impress even the most demanding specifier, installer or homeowner.

It includes Optimum Start/ Stop, Domestic Hot Water (DHW) setpoint, Hot Water time and temperature control when working in conjunction with a wireless cylinder thermostat, and is an ERP Class 5 Product. www.esicontrols.co.uk

STELRAD CPD PROGRAMMES AVAILABLE ON LINE

Stelrad Radiators popular CIBSE and RIBA accredited CPD programmes are still available for face-to-face presentations, but they are now also available conveniently online. You can simply go to the Stelrad website at www.stelrad.com/cpd-online-training/ open the programme at your convenience, digest the information and take the test at the end of the presentation and submit your answers.

If you’ve passed, Stelrad send a certificate for you to add the CPD points to your running total for your professional body. For more information, call 01709 578950 or email marketing@stelrad.com

ITP LAUNCHES NEW EUROCLASS A-RATED VAPOUR CONTROL LAYER

Building membrane specialist, Industrial Textiles & Plastics (ITP) Ltd, has launched a new vapour control layer with A Euroclass A rating which enables maximum fire safety throughout an external wall system.

FlameOut Block Class A is independently tested to offer a Euroclass A2-s1,d0 rating which goes beyond the minimum regulatory requirement for vapour control layers and matches the fire safety classification required for other façade elements on buildings over 18m. Its glass-based reinforcement scrim provides excellent tensile strength. An aluminium layer features a special coating to protect the aluminium from corrosion. Fully CE certified to BS EN 13984, the product has a W1 rating for water tightness, excellent water vapour resistance and a reflective surface for extra energy efficiency. www.Itpltd.com

CONCRETE CHANNEL WITH BASALT FIBRES –NEW ERA BEGINS FOR HAURATON

Hauraton makes concrete material even more efficient for modern drainage technology by enhancing the formulation with natural basalt fibres. The addition of mineral or textile fibres increases maximum stability, strength, and impact resistance. Since the end product is a purely mineral mixture, there is no need for material separation during disposal.

This protects the environment as it is simply fully-recyclable at the end of the product's life cycle. Basalt fibres can withstand temperatures of up to 800°C and are highly resistant to alkalis, acids, salts, oxidation and radiation. www.hauraton.co.uk

A. PROCTOR GROUP NEW RIBA APPROVED CPD SEMINAR –BUILDING REFURBISHMENT

The A. Proctor Group, synonymous with technically advanced thermal, acoustic and membrane solutions for the construction industry, has introduced a RIBA Approved CPD seminar titled “Building Refurbishment, Systems for Retrofit & Conservation.” Aimed at architects, specifiers and contractors, attendees will receive technical advice from A. Proctor Group technical experts, providing the latest guidance on British and European Standards, compliance with Building Regulations, and learning on how to maximise performance and avoid potential failures.

Iain Fairnington, Technical Director, commented, “This session provides an overview of the factors to consider in refurbishment and conservation projects, including the basics of building physics as related to hygrothermal design. It also provides an overview of the standards, regulations and frameworks involved in designing for retrofit and conservation.”

Iain adds, “our CPDs have proved invaluable to professionals involved in the design and construction of buildings. Through the CPD series, we aim to provide technically accurate learning based on best practices, innovation, and project examples to help individuals make informed choices when specifying product solutions for their projects.”

Please get in touch with A. Proctor's technical department for more information on their CPDs or book a CPD on the ribacpd.com website. www.proctorgroup.com

NEW HYDRAULIC DESIGN SOFTWARE FOR HAURATON SURFACE DRAINAGE SYSTEMS

HAURATON’s new web-based application ‘DesignSoftware’ provides construction industry professionals with quick, simple hydraulic analysis, channel sizing, project design and product specification for the company’s range of surface drainage systems (for landscape, commercial and civils projects) whilst working on their own desk-top computers, laptops and tablets. Immediate access for registration and use of this new hydraulic design software is achieved through the link: https://hydraulicdesign.hauraton.com. User-friendly and free-of-charge, HAURATON ‘DesignSoftware’ provides engineers with the flexibility to create their own drainage designs and project specifications, with just three clicks to a hydraulic calculation.

HAURATON has used their ‘in-house’ hydraulic design software to create project designs for over 30 years with total reliability. In addition to this new software application, HAURATON offers a comprehensive design service, which is also free of charge. www.hauraton.co.uk

WHITEOUT FAILS TO THWART STRAND CELEBRATION

Strand Hardware defied the ‘Beast from the East’ when it went ahead with its office reopening event and rededication ceremony. Fortunately, the majority of guests were not deterred by the snowfall, with 70 people attending, including staff, suppliers, customers and media representatives. They included representatives from Athmer, who travelled from Germany, to support their UK distributor and Simon Forrester, Chief Executive Officer of the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers. They toured the newly refurbished Strand House, in Walsall, where the company has been located for more than 30 years.

Christine Franks, the wife of company founder, the late Jonathan Franks, carried out the ribbon cutting ceremony. “I know that Jonathan would have been extremely proud to see how Strand Hardware has flourished,” she said. The building has had a radical make over resulting in a more modern, open plan work space for its expanding team.

It also includes a hi-tech reception and energy efficient measures including better insulation and motion sensor lighting. Many of the materials used in the project were sourced from suppliers and clients including new windows, fire doors, electricals, plumbing, furniture, decoration,

carpeting and signage, along with some of its own ironmongery products. Guests were treated to refreshments and goody bags and a special cake was created to mark the event.

Managing Director Steve Marshall said: “The completion of the refurbishment project has taken many months of planning, organisation, disruption and hard work from all concerned. Those who had visited us before will no doubt see a vast improvement in our working environment, and our environmental credentials. “Since the dear late Mr Jonathan Franks set up the company in 1992, Strand Hardware has gone from strength-to-strength, navigating its way through many national and global challenges, while always sitting solidly on its impeccable financial foundations.”

He also paid tribute to Strand’s ‘family’ – its 21-strong workforce and Jonathan’s daughter, Catherine Franks who took over as MD in 2005 and now Chairs its board. “She has positioned Strand as one of the market leaders in our industry with customer service levels that are second to none and a reputation of which we can be proud,” he added. www.strandhardware.co.uk

RARE LE CORBUSIER £1K LITHOGRAPH POSTER TO BE WON WITH CRITTALL

Steel windows and doors manufacturer Crittall Windows is offering architects a unique chance to win a rare original lithograph poster that celebrates the work of the famous Swiss architect Le Corbusier, one of the pioneers of modern architecture and design. Valued at £1000, “Tapisseries en L’eglise de Chateau Fellentin Creuse“ is a rich and beautiful traditional stone lithograph exhibition poster printed in 1963 by Atelier Mourlot. “We wanted an idea that engaged the architectural community after what has seen a pretty traumatic couple of years for the profession “, commented Russell Ager, Crittall Managing Director.

”The Crittall aesthetic was favoured by the originators of the Bauhaus Movement to which Le Corbusier’s name is indelibly linked, so offering as a prize an original lithographic poster celebrating the iconic designer seemed to fit the bill “ “We are all very proud of our unique Crittall heritage, its links to some of the 20 th Century’s notable architects and designers, and how that continues to be reflected in the products we offer to meet 21 st Century demands”. The free, simple-to-enter competition, which closes on 20th June 2023, is open to all UK registered architects. The entry form and full terms and conditions and can be found here : https://www.crittall-windows.co.uk/win-a-rare-lecorbusier-original-lithograph-poster-competition/

CPG’S FLOWCRETE LAUNCHES NEW RIBA APPROVED CAR PARK CPD SEMINAR

Flowcrete are pleased to announce the launch of a new RIBA approved Continuing Professional Development (CPD) seminar, The Importance of Protecting Car Park Structures. The newly launched CPD covers some of the common methods of waterproofing car park structures such as polyurethane, asphalt and polymethyl methacrylate along with their benefits and pitfalls. Participants are also provided with key guidance when specifying resin waterproofing for multi-storey car parks such as slip-resistance and fire safety which are important factors in the design of construction projects such as car parks. The presentation goes further to break down the different considerations depending on whether it’s a new build or refurbishment car park project, and how this makes a difference to how much remedial work is required and the overall costs.

Finally, the seminar discusses what manufacturers can do to assist in sustainable architecture to minimise environmental impact. The 60-minute session can be delivered virtually or face to face by one of Flowcrete flooring experts. Rejoice Chikosi, Flowcrete PR and communications manager says, “Though car parks might look like solid stable constructions, they are quite vulnerable due to several issues and our new CPD has been designed to help you make informed product and system choices on your upcoming car park projects. “Training and development are cornerstones of our business, and we are pleased to expand our CPD portfolio to building professionals.” To book a CPD seminar, please visit www.flowcrete.eu/en-gb/campaigns/flowcrete-and-riba/riba-cpdseminars-booking-request-form/

A. PROCTOR GROUP INTRODUCES NEW U-VALUE CALCULATOR AND MEMBERS AREA

The A. Proctor Group, synonymous with technically advanced thermal, airtightness and condensation control membrane solutions for the construction industry, has introduced a new online U-value calculator, Condensation Risk Analysis and members area with an impressive range of technical support available to architects, contractors, and customers.

The software is an essential online tool for meeting the new standards and improving the energy performance of new and existing buildings. U-value calculations are carried out in accordance with BRE443:Conventions for U-value Calculations and can be submitted with your building control applications to demonstrate compliance.

In addition, a new Members Area has been introduced to the A. Proctor Group website that enables architects, designers, contractors, and clients to access a comprehensive range of technical resources. Registered members will have access to high-quality webinars on critical topics, with personalised CPD certification for each. A full suite of brochures and product documents including technical properties and characteristics is available for download from the Members Area. Please visit www.proctorgroup.com to register for the members area where you will access the U-value calculator and Condensation Risk Analysis tools. www.proctorgroup.com

NEACO INTRODUCES ADJUSTABLE PEDESTALS TO ITS PRODUCT RANGE

Architectural systems manufacturer, Neaco, has added a new product to its range with the introduction of a Fire-Resistant Adjustable Pedestal supporting the company’s aluminium decking on balconies, terraces and high-rise apartments. The product will be available as a solution for many existing residential buildings which still have balcony elements that do not have the Euroclass A1 (non-combustible) or A2-s1, d0 (limited-combustible) rating necessary to meet compliance with the Building Safety Act 2022. Manufactured from recycled aluminium and zinc-coated steel, the pedestal is Euroclass A1 fire rated to comply with Building Regulations on buildings over 18m in height.

With a large spreader base that won’t compromise insulation or waterproofing membranes, the system is ideal for use with Neaco’s Neatdek aluminium decking, which can be laid directly on top of the pedestal and affixed securely in place. The Adjustable Pedestal aids the installation of raised flooring, avoiding the cost and delay of constructing a sub-frame on uneven or unstable groundworks. Its key feature is an in-built slope corrector which allows up to 5% of millimetre- precise correction and uses a Bubble Level to determine the exact amount of correction required. Compression Test Load testing has been performed on the pedestals to 6 tons and Neaco certifies to over 3 tons per pedestal. They have a breaking load of over 2000kg and have a height adjustment of 24mm up to 395mm. neaco.co.uk

YORK HANDMADE UNVEILS “TRANSFORMATIONAL” £1.5M STATE-OF-THE-ART MACHINERY

The award-winning York Handmade Brick Company has invested £1.5 million in brand-new machinery which will transform how the company makes bricks. York Handmade, who are now the UK’s leading small independent brickmaker, is confident this investment will open a new chapter in the company’s illustrious history. The first bricks from the new plant will be available in March.

David Armitage, chairman of York Handmade, which celebrates its 35th anniversary this year, commented: “Over the years, we have undertaken significant technological improvements, culminating in this £1.5 million overhaul and renewal of our manufacturing process, which will speed up production, facilitate two brandnew products and increase efficiency. This is a transformational move, by far the biggest and most significant in our history. Our revolutionary new manufacturing line will combine three different types of brick - the Handmade Style, as currently produced, together with Water Struck and Pressed Bricks."

“Most of the Water Struck Bricks, which are currently very popular in London, are imported, so we are fulfilling an important demand and supporting the sustainability agenda. We have an impressive track record in London, with iconic projects across the capital, and we can now build on this. More generally, this investment will enable us to manufacture high-quality, UK-made bricks for many years to come and it reflects our commitment to the brick industry and the astounding architectural projects using bricks,” explained Mr Armitage. www.yorkhandmade.co.uk

DESIGN SHOW SUCCESS FOR ENHANCED MARMOX RANGE

Already widely regarded as a lead player in the creation of stylish bathrooms, wetrooms and spa facilities, manufacturer Marmox was able to unveil extensions to its widely specified range at this year’s Surface Design Show in London earning particular interest in its new Slicedstone – Large Format Veneer Sheets.

The Sales and Marketing team were on hand throughout the three days at The Business Design Centre, Islington, showcasing the new large format version of mosaic style product introduced in 2020. Still displaying the beautiful colour variations of natural Indian sandstone, the new Slicedstone – Large Format Veneer Sheets are available in two sizes - 1220 x 610mm or 2100 x 1050mm - rather than 50 x 50mm mosaics on a mesh roll.

However, the new product’s slimline form - at just 4 (±1.5) mm thick, means they can still be applied to curved surfaces both indoors and out. Utilising the latest technology, Slicedstone – Large Format Veneer Sheets are cut from the surface of Indian sedimentary rock and then re-engineered with a stabilised backing. The natural stone blend substrate is treated with a clear polycarbonate solution to offer a flexible surface that is both stable and fully resistant to water as well as being stain resistant. Being in large format means, compared to conventional tiling, savings will be made on the cost of grout and adhesive as well as the reduced labour through quicker installation. www.marmox.co.uk/slicedstoneveneer

PROFAB ACCESS ADDS A FIVE STAR FINISH TO CARDIFF’S NEWEST LUXURY HOTEL

Leading riser door and access panel solution supplier, Profab Access, has proven its first-class credentials once again as part of the recent completion of a major specification at Cardiff’s new 5-star Parkgate hotel. Located next to the Welsh Capital’s famous Principality Stadium, the Parkgate hotel has been designed to provide a luxurious experience for rugby fans, in addition to city dwellers visiting the country all year round.

Widely coined as Cardiff’s most lavish new location, the hotel includes 170 guest bedrooms and suites, a signature restaurant and bar, a traditional tea lounge and a rooftop spa overlooking the city skyline. As part of the prestigious build, a unique collaboration between the Welsh Rugby Union, property developer, Rightacres, and The Celtic Collection, the hotel required an extensive riser door specification, with safety, high performance and aesthetic appeal key considerations.

In total, 310 Profab Access VEGA 1500 Fire Rated Riser Doors were specified for installation by Hazelwood Carpentry throughout every part of the building, including communal areas and the hotel’s vast range of luxury guest rooms and suites. The VEGA 1500 Series Riser Doors offer the highest standards of fire safety, extensively tested by Efectis in France and Ireland to provide a bi-directionally fire tested product that is available in both single and double door configurations.

This means the riser door sets are fire tested from both sides to 60 minutes, providing the specifiers, contractors and hotel guests residing within the building with confidence the critical fire integrity products offer the highest standard and most up to date evidence for fire safety performance. The range also features a slimline, neat construction, whilst its proven technology ensures permanent, safe access to mechanical and electrical services housed within the riser core.

This provides first class functionality and safety, without compromising the overall interior concept. The steel riser doors also streamlined the installation process, as the quick release pivot hinge and light weight enabled easy handling, allowing Hazelwood Carpentry to complete the job quickly and optimise overall project efficiencies.

In the event of a fire, the VEGA 1500 Series Riser Door sets will maintain the frame and integrity for up to 60 minutes, preventing the spread of fire throughout the property for this period of time. The riser doors are 31dB acoustic rated, smoke sealed and airtight to Part L, whilst also featuring intumescent smoke seals that enable occupants to safely exit the building. By specifying bi-directionally fire tested VEGA 1500 Series Riser Doors, the development is actively future proofed as the comprehensive testing certification provides a complete and transparent audit trail of due diligence that evidences the products are not only fit for purpose but meet the duty of care required to ensure legal compliance.

Profab Access’ diverse portfolio of riser doors and access panels are supported by a wide range of BIM Level 2 and CAD files to aid the specification process and streamline the initial design stages. Manufactured at Profab Access’ Atherstone headquarters in accordance with ISO 9001, the 1500 Series Riser Doors can be specified and installed in a range of configurations to meet each project’s specific measurements and requirements. www.profabaccess.com

INTRODUCING THE MEISTERSTÜCK OYO DUOA NEW DESIGNER BATHTUB FROM KALDEWEI

Kaldewei has introduced their latest free-standing bathtub the OYO DUO, a MEISTERSTÜCK bathtub specifically created for small and large bathrooms and designed by Stefan Diez. Demonstrating how luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand, even in smaller bathrooms the OYO DUO can turn a bathroom into a private spa.

Kaldewei is a family owned and run company and the environment is of utmost importance to them, they have been manufacturing steel enamel sanitaryware for over 100 years. The fusion of glass and steel creates a stunning high gloss enamel finish that is both durable and hygienic. As part of their commitment to the environment Kaldewei has started to manufacture their products using Bluemint steel, which reduces their carbon output by 70%. The OYO DUO is the newest highlight to emerge from Kaldewei’s LUXSTAINABILITY world, where luxury and sustainability combine.

Crafted by leading designer Stefan Diez, who as part of his design process, ensured that each of the bathtubs components can at some future point be returned to the material cycle without any problems. The elegant double-walled bathtub has been inspired by Japanese porcelain and is comprised of 100 percent recyclable and sustainable steel enamel. It has been created to look as if it is almost floating across the bathroom floor.

The MEISTERSTÜCK OYO DUO has been designed to hold less water, further benefiting the environment, it is also extremely comfortable, the perfect size to immerse your body and relax. The MEISTERSTÜCK OYO DUO is available in two sizes in addition to alpine white the bathtub is available in a range of colours from Kaldewei’s Coordinated Colours Collection. The enables the OYO DUO to work perfectly in any bathroom. www.kaldewei.co.uk

RADIATORS WORK WELL WITH HEAT PUMPS…..OFFICIAL!

Here in the UK the changing nature of the heating sector is seeing companies like Stelrad needing to adjust to the new requirements of the heating sector, in particular to meet the demands of the new renewable heating systems that are becoming ever more popular. The rise and rise of the heat pump marketplace is seeing the need for larger and higher capacity radiators. Stelrad has responded to these needs by broadening its already massive range of sizes and shapes for its most popular radiators and the introduction of in particular, a wider range of vertical radiators.

It is also meeting the enhanced need for its K3 radiators – with three panels and three fins offering 50% more heating capacity from a radiator with the same footprint as a K2 format radiator for example. Stelrad continues to mount its ‘Fit for the Future’ campaign, highlighting that despite what you might see and read, radiators are very much able to provide the levels of comfort heating and hot water required in UK homes, when paired with heat pumps.

Stelrad offers a simple to use and free radiator sizing and heat loss calculator along with a Renewables Advice page on its website. Radiators are ‘fit for the future’ but as always, correct sizing will need to be undertaken to ensure that they keep the home warm and cosy. But can radiators work well with air source heat pumps? Very definitely, yes they can - and they already are in a host of installations across the UK. www.stelrad.com

NITTAN FIRE DETECTION SYSTEM INSTALLED IN IRELAND’S TALLEST COMMERCIAL BUILDING

Nittan Elite Partner, Fire Technology Ireland (FTI), has recently commissioned and supplied an L1 addressable fire detection system using Nittan Evolution fire detection devices at the EXO, the tallest commercial building in Ireland, located in Dublin. More than 1,350 Nittan Evolution Analogue Addressable devices were installed as the primary detection system throughout the building, along with Advanced Electronics MxPro 5 Series fire alarm panels and network.

The use of Nittan EV-PYS combined smoke detector sounders reduced the overall visual impact on the floors and common areas. The use of Nittan Multiple Input Output units significantly reduced installation time and the need to “hide” equipment. To provide a fault tolerant network, Evolution new ZMU2 complete with SCI were used for leak detection system in basements and top floor plant room with its own network. Where it was necessary to mount wall units for signalling, EV-AV2 combined sounder strobes were used. The high visibility 360-degree strobe is extremely bright and visible from all angles. www.nittan.co.uk

NEW PROGRAMMABLE ROOM THERMOSTAT LAUNCHED BY ESI

ESi has responded to the current economic climate with the introduction of its latest quality heating control – the RTP4 Touch programmable room thermostat. This latest introduction is capable of controlling heating and hot water systems via combi, system or heat only boilers.

When installed with the ESi WIFI hub, homeowners and tenants heating and hot water can be controlled via Alexa or the ESi Centro App. Vitally, the load compensation functionality, available via OpenTherm technology, modulates the flow temperature dependant on the desired room temperature, saving up to 15% on gas usage – a benefit not to be overlooked in the current situation where energy prices have leapt to a huge new high in the UK.

The RTP4 Touch offers optimum start/stop and delayed start functions offering additional cost savings for users, 7 day, 5/2 day or 24 hour options to suit the homeowner or tenants lifestyles, automatic summer/winter change settings and has home, manual, away, sleep and holiday modes long with its popular landlord service interval reminder which makes it a perfect fit for social housing providers looking for a compliant heating control.

www.esicontrols.co.uk

NEW LOWBOARD 2 UNDERFLOOR HEATING OVERLAY: THIN JUST GOT THINNER

OMNIE, the award-winning UK underfloor heating specialist, has launched a new, low profile, overlay panel, LowBoard 2, the latest upgrade to its industry-leading LowBoard panel which transformed the overlay market when it was launched in 2012. LowBoard 2 consists of routed lower and upper panels with a combined profile of just 18mm, making it the thinnest overlay system on the market. Its predecessor, LowBoard, had a lower panel profile of 15mm but, like other overlays, LowBoard also required a ply upper layer which can add at least 6 mm to its overall depth.

LowBoard 2 is quick and easy to install and offers outstanding heat performance thanks to its innovative design. It has a 15 per cent higher heat output than its predecessor and a 40 per cent higher heat output than other unfoiled low build-up systems or alternative overlay solutions. Its lower and ‘over’ panels have pipe channels that tightly sandwich and encapsulate the warm water pipe.

The routing follows OMNIE’s patented multi-directional pipe channel pattern, eliminating the need for separate straight and loop panels while also ensuring the warm water pipe can be easily laid around any planned room layouts. The channels are spaced 150mm apart for optimal heat output and transfer. The upper ‘over’ panel is 6mm thick wood fibre (or 12mm plywood for tiled applications) and the proportional pipe channel pattern places the encapsulated warm water pipe within 3mm of the floor surface. www.omnie.co.uk

REMEMBER ME

The Remember Me memorial portico at St Paul’s Cathedral is a physical memorial to all those that died as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Entered via the cathedral’s North Transept entrance it is home to the online book of remembrance. Designed by Caroe Architecture with Connolly Wellingham, the portico is a beautiful, elliptical structure crafted in the UK and featuring several GEZE doors.

As a visitor enters the cathedral from the North Transept they pass through a pair of swing doors powered by GEZE Powerturn automatic swing door operators. These doors take the visitor into the memorial and were chosen as they can open large or heavy doors and offer the flexibility of allowing the doors to be used both manually and automatically due to GEZE’s Smart swing function.

Above the doors, etched in to the structure in gold are the words ‘ Remembering all who died as a result of the coronavirus pandemic’. Once inside the portico, visitors can view the online Remember Me memorial, search for and view the tribute to their loved one, light a candle and take a moment to pause and reflect in this tranquil space. The online book is open to all people, whatever their faith or none. From the memorial portico the main entrance into the cathedral is through GEZE’s TSA 325 NT, a manual revolving door with 4 leaves. The revolving door was chosen as it minimises air flow into the cathedral as only one quadrant is open at a time.

To ensure access for all a GEZE Slimdrive SCR curved automatic sliding doors was installed opposite the revolving door enabling those who are less able, or people with children in buggies, can still visit the memorial and access the cathedral. The Slimdrive SCR is controlled by wave sensors to ensure the doors only open when requested. This is part of the portico’s design to minimise air flow. Across all the glass in the doors are beautiful phrases such as ‘we will always remember’ and ‘never forget’.

The Remember Me memorial portico is a poignant tribute to those who died as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic and is the most significant change to St Paul’s Cathedral in 300 years. Following the public response to the online memorial, and in partnership with the Daily Mail, over £2million was raised to give the Remember Me memorial a physical home within the Cathedral.

Said GEZE’s National Specification Manager, Richard Richardson-Derry, ‘We were honoured to play a part in the construction of the Remember Me memorial. The combined challenges of minimising air flow, ensuring equal access and creating a beautiful structure to recognise those lives lost has been successfully achieved’. www.geze.co.uk

RIVERSIDE APARTMENTS

INTEGRATE VICAIMA STAINED DOORS

Set in the beautiful surroundings of historic Chiswick in London and positioned with excellent views over the river Thames, sit a group of select and classic new apartments created by modern living specialists Fruition Properties. These stylish open-plan apartments have been complemented by their choice of interior doors, where Vicaima Crown Cut Ash Stained from the Vicaima Naturdor Range were selected. The finish specified in this instance was the tasteful Marina Grey option. This finish not only depicts a contemporary tone, but also permits the attractive and natural grain configuration to shine through. Doors for the project were supplied in a mixture of both flush and glazed options, blending seamlessly with their surroundings and adding to the tasteful décor which a hallmark of Fruition Properties exemplary living space. Marina Grey is just one of six attractive tonal options from the Naturdor Original Stained Range and is available in an extensive array of performance options, including FD30 third -party accredited fire doors. For other inspirational finish ideas, download a copy of the Vicaima Interior Door Selector, visit the Vicaima website www.vicaima.com or contact mailto:info@vicaima.com

CHEERS! CRITTALL BOOSTS BREWERY TRANSFORMATION

Described as Dorchester’s most iconic building, the Brewery – once the source of the much-quaffed Eldridge Pope ales – has been transformed into a high-end residential setting with Crittall windows playing a central role in retaining the heritage aesthetic of this historic structure. For nearly a century and a half the building, with its tall chimney, towered above the Dorset town as a symbol of local industry and prosperity.

Designed by architect WR Crickmay the brick building was completed in 1880. At a staggering 13% the brewery’s Thomas Hardy Ale once featured in the Guinness Book of Records as the strongest commercially brewed beer in the country.

The brewery eventually closed in 2003 and the site remained unused until, in 2007, planning permission was granted for a new public square overlooked by the impressive building, restored to its former glory containing 29 one, two and threebedroom apartments.

LMA Architecture of Bournemouth has retained many of the unique

features of the original building including riveted steel beams, cast iron columns and exposed brickwork.

Crittall Corporate W20 steel windows and doors were a natural choice, glazed in small panes to replicate the original configuration of the tall brewery windows.

www.crittall-windows.co.uk

ALUPROF SUPPORTS IRELAND’S FACADE MARKET

By Wojciech Brożyna - MD of Aluprof UK

It is not very often that a company comes along and has a product offer that ‘ticks all the boxes’, but when it does, customers are usually savvy enough to take advantage. What is it that makes such an offer irresistible? Customers, in this instance are facade fabricators and installers, who seek a value proposition. To some ‘value’ may be seen as competitive prices for aluminium systems, but this is not the case for any serious facade company. As a supplier, ‘credibility’ and ‘partnering’ are two key elements high on the ‘tick list’ for a facade company. Credibility is the depth of aluminium system options and profiles which are only attainable from large systems companies.

Typically, these systems companies have already designed and supplied a wide range of profiles to cater for many complex installations. Partnership comes in the form of systems company support, working side by side with a facade company. Pioneering throughout the construction cycle with the systems company recognising ‘value management’ which ensures both client quality and cost management for the facade company. These are just two of the pillars that Aluprof have built its business upon over the last sixteen years of systems supply in the UK and Ireland.

Aluprof’s logistics provides weekly deliveries to Ireland from an extensive stock of aluminium systems and hardware located at their head office in Poland. Powder coating to a Qualicoat specification, including thermal break facilities, are all housed under the same roof in Poland allowing products to be finished to meet any specification. Aluprof also offers a fabrication service to support its network of fabricator installers across the region when required to meet programme expectations.

Coupled with a physical ‘on the ground’ presence from Aluprof UK & Ireland’s support technicians, has quickly placed Aluprof UK in Ireland as a major systems supplier.

Facade fabricators and installers nationwide quickly appreciated the benefits of well designed, robust Aluprof systems and dedicated technical and customer backup. This co-operation grew into many strong, longterm relationships, carried out through difficult times during the 2008 economic downturn and more recently Covid.

Of many projects located in Ireland, here are a selection of several projects that have recently been completed in Dublin: Home to a wide range of global businesses Dublin Landings offers 100,000 sq.m of office, residential and retail accommodation set in over 5.8 acres on the banks of the River Liffey. E1 Dublin Landings is one of several buildings in the development overlooking the river where Aluprof systems have been specified. Designed jointly by RKD Architects and Arrow Architects the projects utilises both curtain wall and

window systems from Aluprof’s extensive catalogue. To the North West of Dublin Landings and just a 15 minute walk away from Trinity College, Kavanagh Court offers student accommodation in modern high quality rooms in the city centre. The development boasts a rooftop terrace, a modern gym, cinema room, laundry room, secure cycle storage and fast 100Mb WiFi.

Owned and maintained by Yugo, the development opened to students in September 2017 and is one of the largest purpose built student halls in Dublin. The development provides accommodation for 491 students with bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens and living rooms that all sit within 88 self-contained ‘house units’ of varying sizes. Designed by John Fleming Architects the project was built by Bennett Construction. To the south of the River Liffey, Dublin’s Molesworth Street and Dawson Street have been the focal point of the city's elegant quarter. The project ‘One Molesworth Street’ epitomises this status and can be viewed as one of the capital’s most distinguished addresses. The project was

designed by leading architects, Henry J Lyons, offering sheer quality to maximise the occupier experience. The Dawson Street facade uses vertical glass fins together with bronze anodised brise soleil. The Aluprof systems facade finishes and proportions have been designed to complement the neighbouring buildings.

Back on the south bank of the River Liffey, Sir John Rogerson’s Quay was one of the first projects to be supplied by Aluprof in Ireland. It is a six storey office building complete with basement which offers modern office accommodation. Adjoining the Ferryman and Tropical Fruit Store the glass facade of the building is designed to maximise the spectacular views from the development.Designed by HKR Architects, the completed development now offers 6,500 square metres of office space. Having a strong presence in the Irish construction scene, Aluprof UK is supporting the Irish Construction Excellence Awards 2023 for the second time.

Located at the Convention Centre, Dublin, the 27th April event, organised by the Irish Building Magazine, is always a construction highlight of the year for the Green Isle. As Gold Sponsor at the Gala Event, Aluprof will offer awards in the best ‘Education Project’ and the best ’Healthcare Project‘ categories. The awards, founded by the Irish Building Magazine in 1993, are generally known as the ICE Awards and are the original and premier recognition of performance excellence for the contracting sector in Ireland.

The Gala Night is always attended by Ireland’s elite construction professionals, where construction leaders, design and supply chain partners, and clients meet and celebrate construction excellence. Currently with overseas growth further extending across Europe, into the Middle East and with firm roots already in the East of the USA, Aluprof continues to grow into a global player in facade supply. Further information about systems and specification support is available through the company’s website at aluprof.co.uk or direct from their UK head office in Altrincham by phoning +44 (0) 161 941 4005.

A TRULY SMART SOLUTION FOR WINDOWS AND DOORS

It’s no secret that today’s consumer is getting smarter. We’ve all been using ‘smart’ phones for several years and homes are getting smarter and smarter with the likes of video doorbells, heating control systems and leak detection sensors. With security being so high on people’s priority list, surprisingly, adding Smart technology to windows and doors has never really taken off - generally due to it being expensive, ugly and unreliable. That is, until now.

Kubu Smart have developed a range of Smart sensors that monitor the security status of doors and windows in real time and will alert you if there’s anything to worry about. Most contact sensors will tell you if your door or window has been opened or closed, but Kubu is much more sophisticated, being able to report: open,closed, locked, unlocked, partly secure, night vent, and even if it’s under attack.

In addition, the Kubu App can send smart notifications when they are needed most, ensuring the homeowner is always secure. The SureSecure geofence feature will notify you if you have inadvertently left your home unlocked when leaving; the timed notification feature can remind you at bedtime (or any other time for that matter) if you’ve forgotten to lock your door; and the family sharing feature allows you to see the security status of your friends and family’s homes - ideal for elderly relatives or sheltered housing.

Designed to be completely concealed (so as not to spoil the aesthetics of the home), Kubu sensors work hand-in-hand with specially designed Avantis hardware - the most respected high security multi-point locking systems available - which are both PAS24 and Secured by Design accredited. By co-designing the hardware and smart security technology together, Kubu has been able to overcome all the issues and obstacles that other systems are yet to solve, in order to create

extremely high levels of accuracy. For example, the Kubu window sensor has been developed with patented ‘floating-sensor technology’, which allows the sensor to move with the window over time, helping to avoid many common issues such as sash-drop and thermal movement. This means it will always provide 100% accurate status reports without the need for repeated setup or calibration.

Kubu also provides many lifestyle benefits including smart home integrations, air quality monitoring and even weather warnings to remind you to shut those windows before it rains. By seamlessly integrating with the Internet-of-Things, Kubu is able to interact with many other smart devices within the home: get status alerts through your smart speaker; automatically turn off the heating if your windows have been opened; turn off the lights when the front door is locked; or switch on a camera if the window is being attacked.

The scenarios are endless. Not only is Kubu extremely Smart, it is cost effective too. The manufacturer of the windows and doors makes their products ‘work with Kubu’ by simply fitting locks that are compatible with the Kubu technology, which are then fitted as normal by the installer or property developer. For no extra work, and no extra cost you can provide a differentiator when designing a property and can help your developers offer something different.

For the price of a “Smart Lock” for just one door, the homeowner can then upgrade the entire property with Kubu sensors, creating a full perimeter security system that can help to improve the home's green credentials too. If you would like to find out more about Kubu and how it can add value to your next project, visit: getkubu.com/trade or email: sales@kubu-home.com.

SMART LAUNCHES INNOVATIVE NEW RANGES AT FUTUREBUILD

Smart Architectural Aluminium displayed an extensive range of new products and systems at this year’s Futurebuild exhibition. With innovative solutions across its three core product areas, visitors saw a wide range of both completely new products and product evolutions across each of the company’s Internal, External and Outdoor Living collections.

At the heart of the stand was the company’s new Signature Door range which was launched at the show. The range brings a completely new collection of entrance and back doors to sit alongside Smart’s established Designer Door range (for which, a new double door option was also unveiled), opening up an even broader audience for these high quality, high security doors. Two new additions to the Visoglide sliding door range were also on display.

Visoglide offers contemporary styling and is the perfect solution either for sliding commercial entrances where large opening apertures are required, or as statement sliding door for residential properties.

Visoglide doors combine strength and weather resistance and the range now includes two new products: InVisoglide, a bonded-glazing door, and Thermaglide, a highly energyefficient. Featuring a new bonded glazing system, InVisoglide provides enhanced security and extremely slim profiles to create elegant

architectural lines. The bonding process also enables all four sides of the outer frame to be concealed in the aperture.

Thermaglide builds on the proven performance of the established Visoglide range to provide architects and developers with a highly energy efficient option, achieving u-values of 1.4W/ m K with a 1.0W/m K centre pane and 1.16W/ m K with a 0.7W/m K centre pane. In keeping with the slim lines and elegant aesthetics of the entire Visoglide range, the new Thermaglide door features perimeter sightlines of just 115mm, with the option of a 20mm interlock profile.

Elsewhere on the stand were a new opening vent for Smart’s Aliver roof light and additions to the Alitherm 400 window and door system. Commenting on the company’s presence at the exhibition, Smart’s Managing Director, Eddie Robinson, said: “We were pleased to have such a prominent display at Futurebuild 2023, and particularly to showcase such a broad range of innovative new products across all our ranges. “The feedback from visitors to the stand was extremely positive and we look forward to working with our partners, architects, developers and designers over the coming months on some of the projects that we discussed.” www.smartsystems.co.uk

SELECTAGLAZE CURVED ON PLAN UNITS CREATE A SPLASH AT KIDDERPORE HALL

Working with Mount Anvil, a swimming pool area in a Grade II Listed home has been restored to its former grandeur, with the assistance of Selectaglaze sealed units and curved on plan secondary glazing. Kidderpore Hall sits looking over North London, in what was referred to as the Childs Hill neighborhood of Hampstead; once a relatively rural area. It has been beautifully reimagined through extensive refurbishment and brought back to a livable state as a single family home.

One of the areas of the house which needed particular attention was a new pool and spa area in the basement. The original single glazed sash windows did little to provide heat retention. Selectaglaze secondary glazing was chosen to assist in upgrading the thermal insulation in this Grade II Listed building. To ensure maximum U-values were gained in this exposed corner of the building, 24mm double sealed secondary glazed units were required with obscure glass to provide privacy. Six window and one door were treated with Series 41 side hung casements, glazed with 4-16-4 gas filled sealed units. However, to match the sightlines of the bay window framing the jacuzzi, curved on plan units were specified. www.selectaglaze.co.uk

HOW TO MAKE STUDENT ACCOMMODATION MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT

by Wojciech Brozyna MD of Aluprof UK

Over the last decade, the construction of student accommodation projects has increased significantly and still the demand for affordable student accommodation is outstripping supply. With more courses offered by universities in the UK and the increasing number of students from overseas keen to obtain qualifications gained in the UK with the benefit of a full understanding of English and other courses, the increase is not set to abate anytime soon.

At the turn of the millennia, universities offered their own halls of residence on campus for student accommodation and the balance was offered by private landlords, often in repurposed houses across a town or city. With increasing legislation and the problems associated with the breaking up of long term social communities for more transient student lets, private landlords began to invest in private, high rise, purpose built halls of residence known as ‘Purpose Built Student Accommodation’ or PBSA. Over the last few years, there are now more private landlord bedrooms available to students compared to university owned halls.

Currently, there is a total of 697,734 beds available and during 2022/23 it is expected that a further 102,000 beds will become available and these numbers are set to increase in future years.

(Cushman & Wakefield UK Student Accommodation Report 2022). Aluprof UK have been very active in this sector since entering the UK fifteen years ago completing thirty three projects which equates to 4% of the current market, with a high number of new student accommodation projects in the pipeline.

With quality and sustainability high on specifiers' wish list, aluminium systems are a natural choice, but today there are additional challenges that specifiers need to consider. Thermal efficiency has always been important for comfort but with rising costs, it is more important than ever to get both windows and reveals correctly specified and designed to ensure the highest efficiency of both window and fixing.

Incorrectly done, cold bridging in a window reveal can lose much of the window's high thermal performance. The key here is establishing an early discussion with the specified window systems provider to ensure all fixing details, whether the product is a window, door or curtain wall.

Ensuring thermal efficiency will help reduce running costs of student accommodation, helping keep costs down for the PBSA owner and the student tenant. As the Construction Industry continues to move rapidly towards constructing carbon neutral buildings, we are already seeing higher investment in PBSA with the adoption of Passivhaus construction in some new projects in the UK. Passivhaus uses little or no energy to maintain a comfortable living space, irrespective of outdoor temperature.

It is expected that the growth of Passivhaus construction for PBSA will increase rapidly in the coming years. Aluprof UK are already involved in what is currently claimed to be the world's largest low-carbon student residential development which is being constructed in Bristol for The University of the West of England (UWE).

The new development is located at the Frenchay Campus which covers approximately 65,000 sqm and provides 2,250 new student residences. The scheme started on site in 2021 and is set to have the first phase complete for first-year student intake this year. Designed by Passivhaus Trust members, Stride Treglown Architects and QODA Consulting, the new student halls will offer carbon neutral accommodation which falls inline with the University’s ‘2030 strategy’.

Aluprof UK also offered tender support to VINCI Construction UK, the main contractor awarded the scheme, in the careful selection of Aluprof experienced subcontractors to deliver a compliant tender. Aluprof UK having been involved in a collaborative process from RIBA Stage 2 onwards and continue to support the project through to its completion.

Aluprof UK are delighted to be leading and supporting the development of Passivhaus construction across the UK and are already working with specifiers and developers on further schemes to help active the UK’s challenge of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Further information is available on the company’s website at aluprof.co.uk or direct from their UK head office in Altrincham on 0161 941 4005.

The project follows on from what will be the second largest student accommodation project completed to date know as the ’The House’ at Cornell Tech in New York. Aluprof UK became involved in the design development of the UWE scheme from RIBA Stage 2 and worked alongside Stride Treglown, QODA Consulting and Turner & Townsend to develop a high performance facade solution which helps the new development to achieve Passivhaus standards.

Facade detailing and cost analysis support was provided by Aluprof UK prior to tender release to ensure budgets met stakeholders' expectations.

POWERING UP MORE SUSTAINABLE, HEALTHIER OUTDOOR PUBLIC SPACES

Many of the UK’s town and city centres are being redefined to ensure they fit more closely with today’s urban lifestyles and the expectations of tourists. The changing retail landscape, driven by the growth of online shopping, more people working from home and an increasing number of people choosing to live in city centres, means that previous models for the design of streetscapes, public parks, plazas and other pedestrianised spaces are needing to undergo significant change. But it is not just reaction to social change that is at the heart of redesigns – sustainability and a growing movement to capitalise on the health benefits of being outdoors, in whatever form that takes, are also part of this fresh thinking to redesign our public spaces.

There is extensive evidence to show that providing safe, secure and attractive outdoor spaces is important to help people be more active and maintain and extend social interaction to benefit their mental health. Flood prevention and ensuring that water is managed efficiently in urban areas is becoming increasingly important due to climate change. Hence, SuDS (sustainable urban drainage systems) are being integrated and there is an increased use of planters in spaces that were previously dominated by tarmac, pavers and concrete, encouraging biodiversity in the process.

But there is also another important consideration in making these new outdoor public spaces as popular and versatile as possible to maximise their potential – access to on-demand power sockets.

Events can play a big role in increasing the use of outdoor spaces and attracting local people as well as tourists. Food and drink fairs, children’s fun days, market stalls, music gigs and light shows – events such as these can be a major draw and help strengthen local communities and they are easier to stage (even at relatively short notice) when easy access to power sockets is provided.

This is why a power infrastructure is a must for any redevelopment scheme or new development, and Pop Up Power Supplies® can help through a range of pop-up, in-ground and bollard power units. By incorporating a power access where there is an opportunity for events at all times of the year, there is no need to hire generators, which can be expensive and may not fit with the local sustainability agenda. The pop up (retractable) and in-ground power distribution units are permanently submerged in the ground, discreetly installed with a lid that matches surrounding surfaces so they are barely noticeable when not it use.

When a power connection is needed, such as to provide electricity to a street food kiosk, the lid can be unlocked by an authorised user to allow power leads to connected. The pop up unit is raised up using a turning handle, whereas the in-ground unit stays below the surface, accessed via a flip lid. As soon as vendors finish serving, or when events are over, the power leads can be simply disconnected and the power unit can be securely locked again to prevent unauthorised access and vandalism.

The third option from Pop Up Power Supplies® is the power bollard. This elegantly designed bollard will integrate with other street furniture as part of an attractive streetscape, whilst providing the benefit of access to electricity when required through its sockets behind a locked cover. www.popuppower.co.uk

ESG SWITCHABLE™ GLASS FINDS SPIRITUAL HOME AT ST DIONIS CHURCH

ESG Switchable™ glass has been used to create a new multi-use space for the church and community at St Dionis Church in Parsons Green, London. Ion Glass, which provides bespoke structural glass solutions for a range of distinctive buildings, including churches, specified ESG’s Switchable™ glass as part of a stunning refurbishment of the historic Anglican church building.

Using meticulously cut ESG Switchable™ panels, Ion Glass installed new glazing to gothic arches at the rear of the church, separating the main worship area from the newly enclosed area. They also added new privacy glazing to shield the church hall from the public gaze, so that meetings and functions such as weddings can take place in privacy.

The church’s gothic arch shapes made for quite a challenge for leading glass processor ESG, whose expert technicians cut the required panels to the precise shape of each arch using advanced CNC techniques while preserving the functionality of the privacy interlayer. This complex task also required the Switchable™ interlayer to be cut to the exact shape and dimensions of each arch with pinpoint accuracy, making each panel a truly bespoke project.

ESG and Ion Glass worked together to ensure that not only did the ESG Switchable™ glass fit to perfection, but that the connections for mains wiring to provide privacy at the touch of a button were positioned so that the wiring itself could be routed as discreetly as possible in this historic setting.

Ion Glass and ESG have collaborated successfully on a number of projects, ESG’s glass processing expertise perfectly complementing Ion Glass’s innovative and imaginative approach to refurbishing and replanning unique built environments. Susan Sinden, Commercial Manager for ESG Group Ltd commented, “This has been one of our most satisfying projects, as our experts really enjoy finding solutions for unusual applications. This was one of our most complex CNC challenges to date and the end results are quite exceptionally beautiful.”

ESG is renowned for its collaborative approach, working in consultation with its clients on both product development and delivering world class glazing solutions for a multiplicity of applications and settings. www.esg.glass

YORK HANDMADE PROJECT WINS PRESTIGIOUS STIRLING PRIZE

One of the York Handmade Brick Company’s most acclaimed projects has won the prestigious 2022 RIBA Stirling Prize. York Handmade, based at Alne, near Easingwold, in North Yorkshire, provided more than 300,000 bricks for the magnificent new Magdalene College Library at Cambridge University. The library beat five other projects to triumph in this year’s Stirling Prize, the highest accolade in architecture.

It is awarded for the UK’s best new building of the past 12 months. The contract was worth £300,000 for York Handmade, one of the leading independent brickmakers in the UK. The prize-winning architects for the new library at Magdalene College were London-based Niall McLaughlin.

David Armitage, chairman of York Handmade, commented: “It is a tremendous honour to have played a pivotal role in creating a building which has won the Stirling Prize. There is no more significant or coveted prize in the architectural world. We were so proud when we were asked to provide our bricks for such a prestigious project. Magdalene has a rich cultural heritage and this stunning new building reflects this."

“The finished building is absolutely magnificent and provides a wonderful place for Magdalene students to work. It is one of our flagship projects over the past few years and we are proud of what we have achieved.”

The Stirling Prize judges praised the new library, called it "exquisitely detailed and solid and confident, yet deferential new kid on the college block". Simon Allford, president of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), commented that: “It had been a significant challenge to create a building that would last at least 400 years, but that the architects had managed it with 'the utmost skill, care and responsibility'. Well-designed environments hugely improve student success and wellbeing. They should be the rule for all students and teachers in all places of learning, not the exception".

York Handmade was selected primarily for the colour and the character of its brick, but also because of the company’s ability to manufacture a wide range of intricate specials and sizes to fit in with the design specified by the architect.

Mr Armitage explained: “We supplied no less than 40 different sized or special-shaped bricks for this scheme and the quality of the brickwork is outstanding. We must pay tribute to the contractor and especially Julian Redpath, who is the site manager for Cocksedge Building Contractors Ltd."

Tim Allen-Booth, associate with architects Niall McLaughlin, commented: “Our design for the new library was for a bold, modern building, while also having a settled quality that fits with the mediaeval character of the original college buildings. The character of the new brickwork is central to this aim.

“We chose York Handmade’s bricks for their texture, range of colours and ability to produce the range of special shapes and sizes required. The colour mix was developed in close collaboration with York Handmade’s team. The end result echoes the tapestry-like quality of the college’s mediaeval walls and is a key part of both the interior and exterior of the new building.”

Mr Armitage added: “This commission continues our strong relationship with colleges and university buildings at Oxford and Cambridge. We have provided bricks for Christchurch College in Oxford, as well as Oxford’s Said Business School, and Jesus College, Cambridge. It is an immense privilege to be associated with such important buildings and projects in historic and sensitive environments. It is also testament to the renaissance of brick as the building material of choice for significant and prestigious developments.” www.yorkhandmade.co.uk

TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK

A construction project is only as successful as the products and systems that are used. When a completely new flooring system was required for a refurbishment project at Leighton Hospital, Tremco was in pole position to fulfil the needs of the Client, Axiom Group (NW) Limited, with their fully compatible solutions offering.

Due to this particular building’s change of use, a whole new flooring system was required. Through an already well-established relationship with Axiom Group, Tremco also worked in conjunction with Robertson Construction and Kenwood Flooring, who through collaboration, accomplished a safe, reliable, and high-quality installation that was suited to the building’s new purpose.

Once the floor was initially ground by Kenwood Flooring, then came the installation of the liquid dampproof membrane (DPM). By applying a surface DPM that bonds to the surface of the concrete, this strives to minimise any moisture vapour transmission. This prevents moisture build-up beneath floor coverings, which in turn mitigates the risk of a floor failure.

Tremco’s ES100 is the UK’s marketleading epoxy DPM, and a single coat of this solution accommodates up to 97% relative humidity (RH).

ES100 is a cost-effective choice as it guarantees a single coat liquid application, thus significantly reducing time spent on site.

The next stage of the project saw the application of Tremco’s CS190 Gritty Primer, which is a ready mixed, rapid drying solution that can be used on both dry absorbent and non-absorbent substrates. CS190 provides a textured finish that significantly improves adhesion and bond strength, which creates an ideal surface for the application of a smoothing compound.

The smoothing compound of choice was SX302, which is a moisturetolerant latex underlayment that may accept foot traffic after just 90 minutes, post application.

Lastly, Tremco’s SF105 High Performance Acrylic Adhesive was applied over the smoothing compound to achieve a strong, permanent bond to the subsequent floor covering. This non-flammable adhesive has been developed for linoleum and vinyl floor coverings, having been approved by major manufacturers for use with all vinyl (PVC) floor coverings.

www.tremco-europe.com/en_GB/home

RIVERSIDE APARTMENTS FEATURE A-RATED MAGPLY BOARDS FOR KITCHEN FIT OUT

An acclaimed new residential development in a Thameside location is currently being fitted out, with four of the apartment buildings featuring the use of 18 mm Magply boards, manufactured by IPP Ltd., being used in all the kitchens due to their unique range of physical benefits. With the design of the structure prioritising the use of noncombustible materials in response to recent changes to the Building Regulations, the A1 rated Magply boards were chosen to form pattresses within the external walls on the basis of the material’s unique combination of strength and fire resistance as well as the product’s past performance in similar applications.

Riverscape is a joint development involving international redevelopment specialists, Ballymore and Oxley, with Reddy Architecture + Urbanism leading the design team. The first four blocks, which rise to eight, 10 and 14 storeys, will create a total of 249 dwellings of different sizes and specifications, for social housing tenants and shared equity ownership. Meanwhile S & R London Ltd – responsible for all of the internal partitioning – is using the 18 mm Magply boards to form pattress boards across the outer walls. www.magply.co.uk

FIREFLY’S TITAN LITE SELECTED TO PROTECT LEWISHAM ROOF SPACES

Fully compatible products from the range of TBA FIREFLY™ have been chosen to compartmentalise roof voids between apartments and communal lobbies of a large apartment building in the London Borough of Lewisham, providing 120 minutes fire integrity protection as part of a wide ranging refurbishment programme carried out earlier this year.

The contract on Lewisham Homes’ Commodore Court in Albyn Road has been led by the sector specialist construction company, Mulalley & Co. with London/Sevenoaks based CLM Fireproofing carrying out the installation of the TITAN Lite™ 120:60 barrier system, in combination with Collaroll and the use of ancillary products from the FIREFLY™ range. TITAN Lite™ 120:60 has been developed for use in vertical separation or compartmentation situations, offering 120 minutes integrity and 60 minutes insulation and is able to be sealed around penetrations. It is widely specified to form fire barriers within roof voids and floor voids in many different property types.

The flexible woven material is easy to cut and fix, and is chemically treated to improve its cooling properties and therefore prevent temperatures rising in adjoining areas. The system has been fully tested to BS 476 Parts 20 & 22 and is third party certified by IFC. www.tbafirefly.com

BILCO UK SETS THE STANDARD FOR SAFETY AT GLASGOW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT

Glasgow’s latest redevelopment project, located on Langside Road, is built upon the former site of the city’s Victoria Infirmary and consists of a large housing development that includes 413 flats, offices and retail space.

The 3.75 hectare site, which is situated next to Queen’s Park on the south side of the city, forms an important part of the Battlefield area’s character, with the buildings’ exterior reflecting and complementing the surrounding heritage by using the city's traditional blonde coloured sandstone. As part of the construction process,

Bilco UK was commissioned to supply six ESW-50REM Smoke Vents, in addition to seven E-50TB Roof Access Hatches, to provide the highest standards of safety and efficiency, whilst being sympathetic to the project’s overall design. Installed onto the roof areas of four blocks of flats by Scottish contractors, Procladd Small Works Ltd, Bilco UK’s ESW-50REM

Smoke Vents were specified to provide essential ventilation in the event of a building fire. Featuring a linear actuator operating mechanism that opens the cover to 140 degrees within 60 seconds, the smoke vents ensure compliance with Building Regulations Approved Document B, BS9999 and EN12101-2.

The built-in wind deflector also provides protection against smoke being blown back into the vent in the event of a fire., whilst the newly-designed closedcell EPDM sponge gasket helps meet Building Regulation air leakage targets by providing a better seal of the cover to the curb. With the addition of a fixed vertical ladder, the smoke vents can also be used by maintenance engineers for roof access.

Billy Baillie, Managing Director at Procladd Small Works Ltd, said: “We have a longstanding relationship of over 20 years with Bilco UK, and will continue to do so over the forthcoming years, due to their impressive product quality and outstanding service. Bilco UK’s Roof Access Hatches and Smoke Vents were incredibly easy to install, and knowing they’re engineered to meet the highest industry standards, it provided both ourselves and the client with the confidence that the installation would set the standard for performance and longevity.”

Constructed with corrosion-resistant materials, Bilco UK’s E-50TB Roof Access Hatches were also installed to provide engineers with safe, regular and convenient access to the roof to conduct essential maintenance. Engineered with compression spring operators to provide easy one-hand operation, the roof access hatch meets the requirements of Manual Handling Regulations, whilst the automatic hold-open arm locks the cover in the open position to ensure safe egress.

The overlapping cover design, fully welded corners and insulated cover also ensure weathertightness and energy efficiency to deliver the highest standards of resilience. Mark Baird, Sales Operations Manager at Bilco UK, said: “Drawing on our longstanding relationship with Procladd Small Works Ltd, it was fantastic to work together on this project, which has been designed to positively impact the city’s culture. The products installed were manufactured with fire safety and efficiency in mind, delivering assurance of the durability and suitability of the installation for years to come.” www.bilcouk.co.uk

ECO-CONSCIOUS HOUSEBUILDER ADOPTS THERMOBLOCK FOR ITS HIGH SPEC DEVELOPMENTS

A housebuilder undertaking high specification developments in the Stockport and Tameside areas of Greater Manchester has incorporated Marmox Thermoblocks into its designs, to target improved energy performance and all-round higher build quality for its customers. Romiley based D. Woodman Developments’ latest project is creating a total of nine dwellings at School Brow in Stockport where the former Cow & Calf pub is being converted to form three new homes, while a further four semidetached dwellings and two detached homes are being built on the land adjoining what is a ‘Non-designated Heritage Asset.’

The new houses are being raised on conventional strip foundations using Eco Prime concrete and blockwork footings which then carry beam and block floors, along with the 100mm x 600mm x 65mm Thermoblocks, 100mm thick Celcon Solar aerated blocks then form the inner leaf to the insulated cavity exterior walls. Thermoblocks are available in widths of 100, 140 and 215mm and feature a unique design where two rows of high strength epoxy concrete mini-columns are encapsulated in sections of XPS (Extruded Polystyrene). They are attached at either end to the top and bottom layers of glass-fibre reinforced polymer concrete to achieve a good bond with the rest of the structure. www.marmox.co.uk

RESIDENTIAL ROOFS BEING UPGRADED USING FIREFLY’S ZEUS LITE 90/30

A specialist fire contractor is employing the Zeus Lite 90/30 flexible fire barrier and Collaroll wrap from the range of TBA FIREFLY ™ in undertaking a major fire protection programme in Sittingbourne. A phased scheme set to continue till its entire stock is upgraded. DC Fire Protection Ltd. works right across the country covering multiple sectors of the construction industry, installing active as well as passive fire protection systems. It is currently engaged in lining the roofspaces to dozens of terraced houses on an estate in Sittingbourne, Kent.

Director of DC Fire Protection Ltd,. Daniel Mabbott, commented: “We have been dealing with FIREFLY™ for a number of years, including buying large quantities of the Zeus Lite, which we use for commercial contracts as well as residential work such as this - where we are uprating the performance of pitched roofs right across a landlord’s portfolio of properties.” The Zeus Lite 90/30 has been developed for use in vertical separation or compartmentation situations, offering 90 minutes integrity and 30 minutes insulation and is straightforward to install for an experienced contractor. It is widely specified to form fire barriers within roof voids and floor voids in many different property types, including multi-storey flats and commercial premises. Also used throughout this project are fire-rated access panels to provide safe and continual secure access as required, installed within a simple frame built into the flexible barrier wall. www.tba-pt.com

WRAPTITE® PARTNERS WITH HADLEY FRAME FOR AN AIRTIGHT PERFORMANCE

The Wraptite external air barrier system from the A. Proctor Group has enhanced the performance of a considerate inner city development of retirement living apartments working in partnership with the Hadley Group. The Lichfield’s Bonds retirement living development for Pegasus Life consists of three apartment blocks in the heart of the cathedral city.

Constructing on a compact site and nestled against local residents and businesses required a sensitive building approach and a considerate program design. An essential requirement for the client was ensuring that traffic was not disrupted and that the project positively contributed to the city. The Wraptite external air barrier system was installed in combination with the innovative, unique pre-panelised and fully loadbearing Hadley Frame offsite system, which is ideal for developments of low to medium rise structures.

The superior airtightness performance of the Wraptite membrane from the A. Proctor Group delivers significant benefits to projects combining in-factory manufacture and on-site construction. The selfadhesive design ensures that the membrane is held firmly in place, even during transportation, maintaining the system’s quality from installation to build and completion. www.proctorgroup.com

THERMOBLOCKS MAINTAIN CONTINUITY TO ‘ WRAP’ FOR BESPOKE BRISTOL HOUSE BUILD

Bristol based architects Marshall & Kendon have sought technical advice from manufacturer Marmox, regarding the integration of its Thermoblocks into the exterior insulation ‘wrap’ of a bespoke, near-to- zero timber frame construction.

Dovetail Design & Build is building the highly insulated home on an elevated site in Kingsdown Parade once occupied by a 17th century summer house and where the existence of a historically significant cellar required the raft type foundation to permit future access for archaeologists. The founding partner of Marshall & Kendon, Jeremy Marshall, said: “It is our habit as a practice to always run insulation across the outside of the structure, wrapping them rather than putting it within the timber frame. In this instance, Thermoblock enables us to make the layer of insulation continuous as it passes through the loadbearing structure, while the airtightness membrane is continued up the outside of the sheathing boards.'

Marmox stockist, Eco Merchants of Swindon, supplied a total 170 of the 100 mm wide version for the versatile 600 mm long Thermoblocks, with Dovetail’s own operatives utilising an approved adhesive to not only seal the overlap joints, but also to bed the blocks across the OSB base which is covered by a ‘paintable’ membrane. The various lines of Thermoblocks then support the stick-built timber frame exterior and internal walls, with the main isocyanate floor insulation panels infilling the rest of the ground floor area. www.marmox.co.uk

WELSH SLATE HELPS A HISTORIC COUNTRY MANSION WITH A NEW LEASE OF LIFE

A country mansion that was once one of Britain's most at risk Grade II* listed buildings is enjoying a new lease of life, thanks in part to Welsh Slate. Cwt-y-Bugail Dark Blue Grey roofing slates from the leading UK manufacturer have been used over 1,000m2 of roof at Bank Hall in Bretherton, Lancashire, which has been converted into luxury residential accommodation and exhibition spaces.

The Welsh slates were specified for the £5.6 million renovation on a like-for-like basis by architect Miles Pearson as the existing Welsh slates had been on the roof, in diminishing courses (as was the build method of the time), since the building was remodelled in the early 1830s. "We chose the slate in

conjunction with the National Lottery Heritage Fund's team, who oversaw the project and felt a historic supplier was far more suitable than an overseas import," said Miles.

The five-year project now comprises ten apartments and two houses within the hall. In addition, the central four-storey Prospect Tower, which is a regionally significant architectural feature, now houses educational and exhibition spaces open to the public for two days a week. The public also have access to the outer gardens and walled garden..

Specialist sub-contractor RL Lovatt took nine months to bring the reroof to full term. Their team had to use 1F bitumen underlay and custom lead boxes to cater for the resident bat population. All abutments used lead soakers/flashings with stainless steel valleys and land valleys and special conservation roof windows.

Contracts manager Andy Wilson said: "This project was quite the challenge due to time scales, the weather and the overall complexity of a job of this magnitude. Working with true Welsh Slate made all the difference - they are more durable, look fantastic and overall are much better to work with compared to the foreign imports that are widely used elsewhere. Lovatt's were extremely happy with how this project turned out in the end."

Bank Hall had been vacant and decaying steadily since 1971 and was the first building to feature on BBC Two's "Restoration" TV series.

Its restoration, thanks to a National Lottery Heritage Fund grant of £2.2 million, was delivered by Chorley Borough Council in partnership with the owners Heritage Trust North West, developers Urban Splash and Next Big Thing Developments, who specialise in difficult conservation building projects in the North West of England. (Photos: Next Big Thing Developments, working with The Heritage Lottery Fund and the Friends of Bank Hall Group.)

www.welshslate.com

FROM A NATURAL POOL TO NATURAL SLATE: CUPA 12 SELECTED FOR BEAUTIFUL GRAND DESIGNS PROJECT

As showcased on a recent episode of Channel 4’s Grand Designs, CUPA PIZARRAS’ CUPA 12 natural slate has been specified for a spectacular new build project in Chichester. Selected to enhance the property’s modern aesthetic, the slate roof also complements the rural surroundings, which include a wildlife pond along with a variety of plant life. Property owners Daniel and Nina Rowland both work professionally within the construction sector; Daniel heads up architectural firm Studio Fuse, while Nina is an interior designer. Combining their skills, they decided the time was right to embark on a new adventure; leaving London to design and build their own home on the South Coast of England. They purchased a period property that happened to back onto a stagnant pond, which consisted of local drainage overflow.

Daniel and Nina put together a design that would see the old house demolished and a new building constructed. Likewise, the pond was to be transformed into a crystal-clear natural swimming pond – a highly ambitious undertaking. Ideally, this would attract local wildlife, such as frogs, newts and sparrows, resulting in a beautiful waterside home. In terms of the design of the new-build property, the couple wanted the house to be eco-friendly and have a contemporary, spacious and natural aesthetic. It was to be built from structural insulated panels (SIPs) clad in Siberian larch and flint, with large glass windows.

Timber decking would then connect the house to the natural swimming pond. When it came to the roofing, Daniel commented: “We considered using a standard seam metal roof but we went with slate to compliment the natural material palette we have used throughout the rest of the house.” Darren Stigant, Director at NJS Roofing, the roofing contractor on the project made the product recommendation: “Although this project looks quite simplistic, the different roof pitches added a certain amount of difficulty to aligning the mitred hips. Having sourced products from CUPA PIZARRAS many times in the past, I suggested the company’s CUPA 12 slate which was available in 400 x 250mm palettes. Utilising this smaller size, as opposed to the usual 500mm x 250mm, helped us to achieve the finish we required on the mitred hips."

CUPA 12 is a non-carbonated slate that is formed by tectonic compression, giving the product a smooth, matt surface. The dark grey colour provided an effective contrast with the timber and glass. The CUPA 12 natural slate is also high performing with outstanding weather resistance, as it has been tested to achieve a water absorption rate of 0.11% and a rating of T1 in thermal cycle tests.

Thus, making it a long-lasting product with a functional life expectancy of 100 years. What’s more, not only is CUPA PIZARRAS officially a carbon neutral company, but CUPA 12 has also been assessed and certified by BRE Global, solidifying itself as a sustainable choice and bolstering the environmental credentials of Daniel and Nina’s new home. Kevin McCloud, presenter of Grand Designs commented: “This design joins together nature and architecture –in every sense it’s beautiful.” www.cupapizarras.com/uk

MAPEI ULTRATOP LOFT COMPLEMENTS VICTORIAN HOUSE IN BALHAM

Warwick-based surface design specialist – BaSE (www. baselifestyle.co.uk) - has completed a stunning ‘trowel effect’ floor installation using Mapei’s Ultratop Loft. The installation forms part of a kitchen renovation project within the basement of a period property in Balham, South London. Home of interior designer Charlie Nunn and husband, Richard, the large Victorian property has an eclectic style owing to the owner’s creative nature, with colours and artwork adorning the walls. As well as providing a city base for Charlie and her family, the home is used as a location for TV shows and photoshoots and has recently featured in Amazon Prime adverts.

BaSE’s use of Ultratop Loft spans the 50m2 extended kitchen, providing a striking contrast to the red gloss kitchen cabinets and satin wall finish. Ultratop Loft was trowel applied under the existing units and around the cabinet legs; it was applied with a Nuvolato (cloudy) texture in a warm grey called Venezia. The micro-cement based finish replaced a seamless resin floor which had faded in sunlight. A rapid-drying, micro-cement based system, Mapei Ultratop Loft is built up in layers made up of special primers, cementitious layers and hard wearing sealers.

The two cementitious layers - coarse grained Loft F and finer grained Loft W – are mixed with water and colourings to create a trowelable cementitious paste which is then applied in layers up to 2mm thick. Ultratop Loft is part of Mapei’s fast-track range and, in the correct conditions, the surface sets to foot traffic within three hours. The installation was completed with Mapei’s Mapefloor finishing products. For more information please contact: info@mapei.co.uk

WRAPTITE® SELECTED FOR ZERO CARBON AFFORDABLE HOMES

The Wraptite® external air barrier system from A. Proctor Group has been selected as part of a new zero carbon affordable homes project at New Ferry on the Wirral. The project at Windsor Close is a new development of three bedroomed terraced houses to be constructed by Property Development Group Starship at its off-site manufacturing facility in Deeside. The superior airtightness performance of the Wraptite membrane from the A. Proctor Group is the perfect solution, delivering significant benefits to the combination of in-factory manufacture and on-site housing construction. Karl Ventre, Director at Starship, explains why Wraptite was chosen to achieve the airtightness solution and how it benefits off-site construction.

“We have specified this product within our system offering for the last three years, and it has always performed well and helped contribute to good airtightness test results. “The self-adhesive membrane is easily applied in the factory, bonded externally to the substrate, and ensures that the membrane is held firmly in place, even during transportation, maintaining the quality of the system from installation to build and completion. Wraptite is an excellent quality product, and the self-adhesive backing gives a very neat finish. The technical team at the A. Proctor Group supported us throughout and provided comprehensive condensation risk analysis reports at the outset." The Wraptite air barrier system offers a safer and simplified membrane system. It is a fully self-adhered vapour permeable air barrier certified by the BBA. www.proctorgroup.com

STO INSULATION AND RENDER SYSTEM MAKES ITS MARK ON THE BOURNEMOUTH SKYLINE

One of the tallest new buildings recently added to the Bournemouth skyline has been completed with a combination of external wall insulation and render products supplied by Sto. The company’s StoTherm Mineral M system, with Sto-Rotofix Plus mechanical fixings and StoSilco exterior render were all used on the new Skyline student accommodation building, which achieved a BREEAM ’Very Good’ rating.

StoTherm Mineral is a highly durable external wall insulation system which uses mineralfibre boards that provide outstanding thermal performance and unrivalled fire protection. The dense nature of the materials involved also provided a considerable degree of sound insulation for this student accommodation building, while the efficient single-leaf construction and external location of the system allowed internal space to be maximized.

After a Sto cement-free reinforcement layer had been applied, the insulation system was completed with the application of the company’s StoSilco silicone resin render. This provides the finished surfaces with a highly water-repellent surface that is ideal for buildings such as this where a coastal location may subject them to unusually harsh weather conditions. With excellent CO2 and water-vapour permeability this render allows moisture transfer to occur at a high rate, enabling the wall to breathe and encouraging the evaporation process.

The StoSilco render is available in an extended range of 764 colours from the StoColor System, and this provided extra benefits for this particular project. A dark grey RAL 7016 colour was used for the render between the windows and across the top two floors, and this was then overcoated with StoColor X-Black façade paint. A contrasting RAL 31437 cream colour was used in other areas. www.sto.co.uk

HOWE GREEN SUPPORTS SUCCESSFUL SPECIFICATION AT BOND STREET STATION

As one of nine new stations developed as part of the construction of the Elizabeth line, Bond Street Station will facilitate up to 137,000 passengers per day, with up to 22 trains passing through the station every hour at peak times from November 6 this year and up to 24 trains per hour from May 2023.

Providing interchanges for the Central and Jubilee lines, the newly constructed Bond Street station will significantly improve accessibility for travellers, whilst simultaneously increasing capacity at one of the busiest shopping districts in the UK.

The development of the station included the specification of 200 Howe Green stainless steel floor access covers as part of the structural and architectural design process to provide secure and concealed access to under-floor services. Installed throughout the entire station, which includes two newly constructed ticket halls at street

level and all underground passenger platforms that can be as long as 255 metres, the medium-duty 7500 Series Floor Access Covers were manufactured to meet the project’s extensive requirements.

With over 50 kilometres of communications cabling, 200 CCTV cameras, 66 information displays, 200 radio antennas, 750 loudspeakers and 50 help points, an essential element of the specification process was ensuring the covers were tamper proof, without preventing contractors from gaining quick and easy access to the services below.

Manufactured with unobtrusive barrel cover lifting points that can only be accessed with unique lifting and securing keys, the access covers are protected from unauthorised access, without impacting the overall design scheme, as only the securing bolt and barrel edge are visible.

The method of removing the covers also ensures the products can be handled easily and safely by contractors, eliminating any potential strain or harm, regardless of the covers’ combined weight with the hard flooring finishes. This is due to the lifting blocks being anchored to the inner frame. Throughout maintenance-only areas, the lifting mechanisms of the floor access covers are mechanically assisted with pistons so engineers can securely lift the covers from underneath.

Installed in conjunction with terrazzo flooring across the platforms, and Portuguese granite throughout the ground floor public areas, the 7500 Series Floor Access Covers seamlessly blend with the architectural finishes of the station for a streamlined visual effect. This sleek aesthetic is further enhanced by the tiling modules, which create a unified and cohesive finish, simultaneously eradicating any potential trip hazards, as the access covers are

installed entirely flush with the hard flooring. The minimal profile of the edges also reflects the dimension of the joins between the tiles to create a perfect finish, even when working with the radial sections of stone tiling on curved passages and walkways, which required individual access covers constructed of curvilinear profiles to deliver a high quality, bespoke finish.

Each of the covers withstand up to five tonne pneumatic tyre wheel loads. Manufactured to BS 476: Part 22: 1987, the covers’ ability to eliminate the potential transmission of smoke and fire from the underground services in the event of a fire was another key consideration of the specification process. www.howegreen.com

Photo credits above and below - Darren Almond Artwork for TfL

Warning Labels

Warning notices to reduce the risk of future pipe damage if the floor finish is replaced.

Even Easier Installation

Unique pre-printed chipboard layer shows where the pipe channels are, eliminating the risk of floor covering fixings damaging the pipe. Locator guides show where screws should be placed.

New Chipboard Covering Layer

Covering chipboard layer is pre-cut with the pipe channel pattern, allowing the layer to slot precisely over the warm water pipes once installed in the chipboard layer.

Ultra Fast Warm Up Times

The pipe sits proud in the chipboard floor layer, ensuring the pipe is in as close contact with the floor finish as possible when the finishing chipboard layer is slotted in place over the pipe.