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Sconnex types W (left) and P (right)
SCHÖCK EXPERTISE FOR SEMICIRCULAR BALCONY DETAILING
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The Triptych Bankside development at 185 Park Street, in Southwark, adjacent to the Tate Modern and the Globe Theatre is nearing completion. This three tower, mixed-use development, will provide creative workspace in a tenstorey building sitting alongside two residential blocks.
These are fifteen and nineteen storeys respectively, offering 170 new luxury homes. The striking design by architects Squire & Partners features unusual semicircular balconies throughout to maximise amenity space and sweeping panoramic views. The balcony specification is demanding though and the adaptable Schöck Isokorb T type SK is incorporated to meet the various challenges.
A complete system thermal break - The special demands of the Triptych Bankside semicircular balcony profiling required bespoke Isokorb T type SK units designed with specific postional load capacities, using built-in steel reinforcement. The T type SK is a complete system structural thermal break for concrete-to-steel connectivity.
At present, no other UK product for concrete-tosteel applications satisfies the necessary loadbearing requirements, or meets the current and future thermal performance required by building standards (Part L). The entire project is built very much with sustainability in mind and minimising any risk of thermal bridging at the balcony detailing is critical for a number of reasons.
Any local heat loss will result in more energy being required to maintain the internal temperature of the building. Also, low internal surface temperatures in the area of any thermal bridge can cause condensation and this in turn is likely to result in structural integrity problems. Mould growth too is a possible risk, which in a residential situation can cause asthma and allergies.
A dependable and fully compliant product range - The Schöck Isokorb range of structural thermal break solutions is the largest in Europe and in the UK helps projects meet full compliance with the necessary Building Regulations (and the impending Future Homes Standard criteria where relevant).
In addition to the Isokorb type used on this project, there are also solutions for concrete-to-concrete, steel-to-steel, renovation projects – and even a maintenance free alternative to wrapped parapets. All products have the security of independent BBA Certification, which provides NHBC approval.
The temperature factor requirement (fRSI) used to indicate condensation risk, which must be equal to, or greater than 0.75 for residential buildings, is also easily met by incorporating the Isokorb. www.schoeck.com
CUPACLAD PROVIDES THE NATURAL SOLUTION FOR NEW COASTAL HOME
CUPA PIZARRAS’ CUPACLAD 101 Logic was recently installed as part of a striking new-build project, located in Aberystwyth, Wales. The natural slate cladding was chosen because it could complement the coastal surroundings as well as provide outstanding resistance to the harsh weather conditions. The site was purchased by homeowners, David and Shirley Harries who looked to extend the pre-existing bungalow but after finding significant issues with its structure, opted instead to erect a new build on the same plot.
“We really wanted a home that utilised a range of materials to create a modern look as opposed to building a glass palace that could look too ostentatious in the rugged seafront location,” said David. The couple approached Arwyn George from George + Tomos Architects who put together a design, which included CUPA PIZARRAS’ natural slate cladding system, CUPACLAD 101.
“The CUPACLAD system allowed the new home to blend into the surrounding cliffs beautifully,” said Arwyn. “In addition, I had to consider the high winds that the project would be exposed to and select something that would have the appropriate durability.” High quality natural slate is a very resistant material – its deterioration is unnoticeable to the human eye, meaning its colour does not change across its 100 year lifespan, even in the coldest environments.
Natural slate also has a permanent sheen, unlike other roofing materials which can decrease up to eight times superior. “We really loved the proposal,” the couple commented. “The slate would blend seamlessly with the local landscape – both the cliffs behind the property as well as some of the other houses in the area, which also utilise natural slate. What’s more, the material is sympathetic to its environment.”
CUPACLAD is constructed using specially selected slates, which are dark in colour, creating a bold and dramatic look, particularly when utilised alongside lighter materials such as glass, timber and render. CUPACLAD 101 Logic is made up of 40x20cm slates installed horizontally using fixing systems that are completely invisible once installed to avoid impacting the design.
As with the rest of the CUPACLAD 101 series, it is BBA certified, verifying that it has an incredibly low level of water absorption, test results show a value between 0.16 and 0.17%. This ensures that the material is not susceptible to frosting or hypothermal ageing.
Furthermore, the BBA certificate demonstrates the slate is very resistant to high winds, fire and impacts. Rhys Ben Wright from RBW Carpentry was then selected to install the slate system. A process made easier, thanks to the quality of the slate, with pre-drilled holes and self-drilling fixings.
What’s more, natural slate has a number of environmental benefits. According to research carried out by the University of Glasgow, it produces a limited amount of atmospheric carbon (1KgCO2/metre2 over its lifetime) and has a low water and energy consumption rate. Furthermore, by sourcing natural slate from CUPA PIZARRAS, a carbon neutral company, David and Shirley’s cladding solution is verifiably sustainable.
Once the project was completed, David and Shirley were over the moon with their new home: “The cladding fits the landscape seamlessly, which is due to the properties of the slate, as well as Arwyn’s design. He was able to shape the building in such a way that it really fits with the outlines of the hilly surroundings.
“We were concerned that some of the slates would be lost in recent strong winds; however, the cladding remained completely intact. We would definitely recommend CUPACLAD.” CUPA PIZARRAS’ slate is exclusively distributed by Taylor Maxwell to the UK market. www.cupapizarras.com/uk/rainscreen-cladding
SUREST SHINES DOWN BY THE RIVERSIDE
Located on the River Itchen, sits Chapel Riverside, where a new housing development started in 2017. There are six phases to include 457 new homes which will be built near the Ocean Cruise terminal. The project was approved by Southampton City Council and is now into the third phase comprising of 132 apartments, all with allocated parking and premium specifications that run alongside the Solent Sea Wall.
Southampton City Council wantred the whole walkway paved in the most economic, cost-effective, durable, and aesthetically pleasing product possible. SureSet was able to provide large resin bound sample panels with various colour options so they could view the paving against the Sea Wall, determine the best appearanceand discuss the benefits of the products, installation methods and advise on the suitability that the resin bound paving would offer to the walkways.
One of the seven key areas in this project was to re-shape the landscapes of the city. To achieve a consistent aesthetic across the phases of Chapel Riverside Developments, it was specified the same materials were to be used throughout. The colour chosen was 6mm Butterscotch a permeable resin bound paving material from our Natural Aggregate range, installed at an 18mm depth. This product was laid to create a desirable waterfront, and due to the smooth nature of the compacted surface, it is suitable for moderate to high foot traffic and accessible pathways. The area was built above ground level for the apartments and accompanying landscapes to improve ground floor access and create new walkways around the buildings to ensure everyone can enjoy the views.
The 360m²resin bound paving installation was completed over two days, the asphalt and concrete areas were quality checked and dip tested prior to installation. A sleek stainless steel edging, supplied by Dural Ltd, was carefully secured to the areas. The SureSet paving looks clean and smooth and is low maintenance and permeable. Chapel Riverside has a mix of building types and has been transformed with a new public piazza with cafes, restaurants, and shops as well as spaces for retained and enhanced marine industry and activities.
The resin bound walkways are surrounded by green lawns, and seating areas to soak up the views. www.sureset.co.uk
Built on brown-field land located on the edge of the main shopping district in Hull and adjacent to Princes Quay, the Bonus Arena – Hull Venue and its associated multi storey car park were opened in August 2018. The £36 million development progresses the legacy of the social and economic impact generated by Hull’s 2017 UK City of Culture status.
The Arena, designed by AFL Architects, is a state-of-the-art music and events complex with a flexible capacity of up to 3,500 people. The facility can provide a venue for concerts or corporate conferences in an 800 seat auditorium.
A 2000m² adaptable space can be utilised for sporting events or exhibitions and trade shows. Surrounding the Bonus Arena is a public realm laid with grey stone paving and landscaped by re-form Landscape Architecture Limited with trees, lawns, flowerbeds and permanent stone seating.
An effective surface water drainage system was essential to ensure all weather access to the venue. 140 metres of Hauraton RECYFIX® PRO 100 channels with FIBRETEC® heel-safe gratings were chosen for the job which blended well with the stone paving and would resist damage from applied grit rock salt in freezing weather. The material, PA-GF used to make the FIBRETEC® grating, was specially developed by Hauraton; the tough, UV resistant, fibre reinforced moulding offers high stability and huge strength for its weight. Complying with loading category Class C250 (BSEN 1433) the grating can easily take the weight of commercial delivery vehicles.
The design is a real innovation as its non-corrosive material provides a visually appealing surface finish that retains its colour. The slots are super smooth, elliptical openings with the moulded bars having slightly raised triangular bosses along their outside edges.
As well as providing an elegant appearance, the feature ensures surface water is directed into the slots. The RECYFIX® channel component is made from 100% recycled PP. The PRO 100 model is factory fitted with the FIBRETEC® grating and only weighs 4.6kg, so the unit was easy to handle and quickly installed on site. www.drainage-projects.co.uk
ITP SUPPLIES AWARD-WINNING W1 MEMBRANE FOR W1 LOCATION
Building membrane specialists, ITP Ltd, secured a specification at one of London’s most iconic new developments with the supply of the awardwinning Safe One breather membrane for Lucent W1. A £250m project which features the city’s famous Piccadilly Lights at its core, Lucent W1 comprises 110,000 sq ft of offices, 30,000 sq ft of retail space and 3,000 sq ft residential space including 20 roof terraces.
The development has been described as ‘an urban oasis in the centre of London’ with expansive green zones and flexible workspaces designed to foster a strong sense of community. Lucent W1 will revive and transform One Sherwood Street – the space behind the Lights – into a new six-storey building designed by architect Fletcher Priest. Construction is being overseen by principal contractor Wates, for developer Landsec.
Safe One was supplied via leading specialist distributor, SIG. The product will protect the longterm condition of the building envelope with a W1 rating for water tightness to prevent rain ingress and high water vapour permeability to control and release condensation from the building’s interior. Its advanced membrane also has a Euroclass A2,s1-d0 fire safety rating, waterproofing of 7000mm and an outstanding UV resistance of 5000 hours. Jess Harrison, ITP Account Manager, said: “Landsec has an incredible portfolio of projects and ITP are delighted to supply a product on their latest landmark development.
Safe One is fast becoming the go-to membrane for prestigious high-profile schemes of this nature. The system’s wide-ranging capabilities make it a compelling choice for specifications which demand high all-round performance. Safe One has an awardwinning pedigree, having received Product of the Year in the Façade 2022 Design and Engineering Awards.”
Safe One is one of an extensive range of protective membrane solutions in ITP’s portfolio. The company also manufactures an advanced range of vapour control layers, roofing underlays, house wraps and ground barrier membranes. www.itpltd.com Image courtesy Landsec
Health and beauty retailer Boots UK is well known for offering beauty products to enhance the stylish good looks of its customers, so the entrance to their brand new store in Kensington High Street in London, just had to step up to the mark. The busy store needed an entrance to complement its glass and bronze-anodised façade and GEZE UK had just the answer – the UFO NT. The UFO NT is an underfloor operator that is completely hidden from view, so perfect when installed with glass doors.
Extremely quiet in operation and complying with the demands of the Equality Act and BS EN 8300 ensuring access for all, the UFO NT can be used on any type of doors – glass, metal or wood, and can operate doors with leaf widths up to 1250mm on external doors and 1600mm on internal doors and up to 125kg in weight. GEZE UK worked with façade solutions specialists Colorminium to design and install double doors with two UFO NT automatic operators to the store entrance.
The Boots store is part of a mixed use building on the corner of High Street and Wrights Lane, the 1970’s building was remodelled and extended, to completely transform it and includes office space, a new retail arcade and connection to the London Underground. Said Andy Iredale, GEZE UK’s national sales manager for automatics and window technology: ‘The UFO NT was the perfect solution for this busy store, the operator is concealed beneath the floor giving designers the freedom to create aesthetically pleasing entrances yet still provide automatic access’. www.geze.co.uk
LANDMARK LEWISHAM PROJECT USING A1 MAGPLY FOR FIREPROOF PATTRESS INSERTS
A significant new high-rise residential project in the London Borough of Lewisham is being built to provide high quality social housing, with the design of the structure prioritising the use of noncombustible materials: including the choice of A1 rated Magply boards for pattresses within the external walls.
The development at Creekside in Deptford is being built to create a total of 56 one, two and three bedroom apartments, including three specially equipped units on the lower levels of one block for those with mobility issues. Within all of the high specification homes, pattress blocks cut from 18mm sheets of Magply boards are being fitted to the reinforced concrete structure’s infill of heavy gauge steel studs.
The pattresses are being positioned to support kitchen cupboards and bathroom units as well as radiators throughout the eight and 10 storey buildings. Independently certified to offer a range of performance benefits. Magply MOS boards present a fire-safe and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional plywood or OSB products which normally only offer a Euroclass D or E rating. Importantly the pull-out strength for 18mm Magply is in the range 3.45-4.00 Kn/m2. The different thicknesses of panel are also widely used as a substrate board for the direct application of proprietary render systems, as well as for flooring and flat or pitched roof build-ups. www.magply.co.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
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
