The Architectural Technologists Book, September 2023

THE ARCHITECTURAL TECHNOLOGISTS BOOK

THE CONTENTS PAGE

Front

ANYTHING BUT PLAIN, H2R DESIGN DESIGNS A FRESH NEW HANDCRAFTED DESSERT CONCEPT IN CITY CENTRE MIRDIF

H2R Design worked on the design and fit out of PLAIN, a new handcrafted dessert concept homegrown in the UAE. Located in City Centre Mirdif, the new unit in the mall was designed to create a space that celebrates the combination of high-quality desserts in a tranquil ambience, within a unique and uplifting experience. The Brief: - The aim was to create a clean yet attractive aesthetic that would complement PLAIN’s wide range of flavours and desserts, while still allowing the products to stand out. H2R Design was asked to develop the brand identity and interiors harmoniously, (a task that was carried out by the in-house branding and design team). The design studio translated the brief holistically, creating a neutral expression allowing all the creative and wonderful dessert offerings to appear as anything but plain.

The inspiration and mood of the concept can be defined as a monochromatic neutral space, with hints of soft colours and touches of warmth from timber furniture and panelling on some joinery items. The overall theme is tonal and understated yet fresh. H2R Design created a simple and sophisticated logo with clean typography paired with a playful personality that is evident through the pastel colour palette. This has become the brands main identifier and general tone of voice. Custom line illustrations were also introduced, giving the brand a harmonious balance between elegance and play. H2R Design studied the depths of PLAIN to design a space that truly reflected its identity. The research uncovered the concept's origins, stemming as a place to serve Japanese desserts. This automatically led to the design embracing a more minimal and tranquil approach. However, the concept had to be more unique than that, it needed an identity for itself. Researching the menu offerings, H2R Design incorporated tones that were inspired by the desserts.

For example, the toppings on top of the kakigori (a shaved ice dessert), added a splash of colour to the otherwise plain coloured sweet and the honey toast and pancakes having beige and off-white tones. This led to a neutral on the outside, a surprise on the inside approach for PLAIN's whole design conceptualisation. There is alignment from the entrance all the way to the counter at the back, framing the entire space.

Tying in the branding with the interior was crucial and this is how H2R Design created the concept from paper to build. Overall, straight simple lines are displayed throughout the space, where everything is there to be functional, while still maintaining a minimal beauty. Due to how minimal the space is, H2R Design had to pay attention to details, with how frameworks met, the datum lines of the mesh, and perfecting every single joint. H2R Design used neutral toned micro-topping in abundance in addition to stones in similar in colours. (cont...)

(cont...) Stainless steel is the dominant ingredient in the majority of the metals, which sit fresh against the warmth of oak timber design features. The brand's colours are on a mesh, allowing for the addition of stencilled branding icons, harmonising the branding with the interior. PLAIN's unique products, branding, and fresh neutral interiors identify the colourways, which are of neutral blues and beiges in the branding and the accent in the pink and tan in the furniture.

H2R Design integrated the warm pink and tan colour tones into the fabrics of the loose furniture. The blue from the branding covers the banquette seating, so diners can feel the connection to the interiors, fully embracing the brand's identity. The overall colour scheme emanates neutrality and minimalism.

The use of grey micro-toppings, stones, floor tiles and greys in the structure allowed for H2R Design to create a very lightly coloured space for the display of the food to burst and reveal its own personality. The micro-topping and textured paint were implemented to create a neutral but textured effect taking away from it being totally flat. However, grey stones were used for the counter tops for durability and the with the tiles giving off a canvas like aesthetic. Oak timber has also been used throughout the space to ignite some warmth amongst the monochrome mood.

Stainless steel is the central metal element with blackened steel prominently displayed. The placement is crisp and sits beautifully up against the warmth of the timber framework. Mesh is a distinguishable feature throughout in the design.

There was the use of mesh to frame the space and to create a canvas to stencil the branding icons that represent the food offerings. The mesh also frames the key spaces such as the back counter. Stencils are done with paint directly onto the perforated mesh, bringing together the branding icons with the interiors. Shopfront icons represent the food offering.

The identity is minimalistic, but the icons add touches of playfulness. The decorative light fittings are modest and neutral in colour but also had to be tuned with the luxe levels from the mall's interiors. The ceiling lighting is flush clean, minimal, and practical, while decorative grey neutral Muuto light fittings hang above the perimeter tables.

H2R Design's detailed approach is also present in the tableware, crockery and utensils served to diners. From the plates, the sous plats, to serviettes, the cohesive neutral tones with soft touches of pink and blue, similar to the fabrics used creating the interior identity, are reinforced. A kitchen pass was developed to connect the back of house space to the front of house, next to the main counter.

Originally, the flooring design also featured micro-topping; however, for durability tiles were used instead. Minimal greenery with a wonderful story can be found on the shelving and tables. These décor pieces were purchased by a client from a charity supporting children with special needs. www.h2rdesign.com

ATELIER ALAIN ELLOUZ / ÉDITION COLLECTION ALABASTER PENDANT LIGHTS, A WARM ADDITION TO ANY SPACE

The Edition collection alabaster pendant lights from Atelier Alain Ellouz exude a warm, delicate character to add charm to your interior. With their sober, aerial, striking or sleek design, one element above your table offers graceful décor, or you can compose them to set the tone in kitchens, dining rooms or restaurant settings.

In an expression of contemporary elegance, they defy the laws of gravity. These pieces give the alabaster stone a weightlessness due to their wellbalanced and harmonious floating shapes .

They share simple alabaster design and subtle geometrical contours. As direct light or diffused radiance, they adapt to any room thanks to their easy installation.

Handcrafted by the artisans at Atelier Alain Ellouz, these lighting elements express the stone’s vibrant richness. Whether the stone is back-lit or natural, alabaster diffuses a delicate yet resonant light ideal for contemplation.

The light is set at the core of the stone and passes through its deeply-ingrained patterns. edition.atelieralainellouz.com

SMALL BUT PERFECTLY FORMED: “POCKET HOUSE” BY WHITING ARCHITECTS IN MELBOURNE

The tiny Pocket House, designed by Whiting Architects in collaboration with Fisher & Paykel, cleverly utilises every inch of useable space in this minimalist Melbourne terrace. When Whiting Architects were approached to renovate a tiny Melbourne terrace on a footprint of just 96m2, they rose to the challenge, seeing it as an opportunity to prioritise quality of space over quantity.

Likening the design and construction process of the Pocket House to ‘building a ship in a bottle’ due to the restricted site access, the final result is an achievement of design that takes restrictions and reimagines them as opportunities. The clients, a professional young couple who like to entertain, needed living space for just the two of them and their large dog, with enough room to allow guests to visit. The kitchen, commonly a social hub for entertaining guests, was a well-thought out space in the tiny Pocket House.

Whiting Architects worked closely with Fisher & Paykel to achieve a fair balance of functionality and aesthetic in the kitchen. “The owners love to cook so they wanted high quality, hardworking appliances. We wanted to play down the look of the kitchen. So the need for functional appliances that blended seamlessly into our design was paramount and Fisher & Paykel do this extremely well” says Steven Whiting, founder of Whiting Architects.

“The appliances are discreet and practical but when on show they still look great. We’ve had nothing but praise for Fisher & Paykel from all our clients.” The Pocket House is furnished with Fisher & Paykel appliances which seamlessly blend into the kitchen cabinetry. With integrated appliances, the architects were able to utilise the space on offer without disturbing the minimalist design. The integrated appliances allow a seamless movement between the living, dining, utility and kitchen areas.

The integrated DishDrawer™ and fridge freezer are discreetly hidden away and invisible to those unaware, yet their large capacities prove extremely practical.

The dark oven and hob discreetly match the dark timber joinery and monochrome palette, while the washer dryer is hidden under the stairs - the

two-in-one washer dryer meant the clients did not have to sacrifice more space for a separate dryer.

“The selection of appliances from Fisher & Paykel allowed us to make the most efficient use of space, and in a tight area this made a big difference” says Josie Somerville, Whiting Architects design coordinator.

“Fisher & Paykel really listen to designers and have worked with us to create the products that designers want. When selecting appliances for a project, we like everything to complement each other and work together. The appliances are well designed and slimline, tying them in with the simple and monochrome palette of the kitchen”. www.fisherpaykel.com/uk

Photo credit: Shannon McGrath

NEWS

TREMCO’S TIMELESS LEGACY TO BE SHOWCASED AT HARROGATE

Tremco is excited to announce its participation at The Flooring Show 2023 in Harrogate. With a rich legacy spanning over decades, Tremco will be showcasing its trusted, fully compatible range of damp proof membranes, smoothing compounds, and adhesives.

As a sponsor of the expo, Tremco is offering visitors to its stand - number B45 in Hall B - special offers, including discounts for distributors who place orders at the Harrogate event. The team will also be highlighting how people’s trust in Tremco has seen it hold a top place in the UK and Ireland for more than 75 years, with systems that achieve a superior finish while ensuring the best in protection, speed of installation and ease of application. www.tremco-europe.com/en-gb

Siderise Special Products has demonstrated its ongoing commitment to excellence in occupational health and safety, achieving certification under the globally recognised ISO 45001:2018 for its primary production site in Suffolk. ISO 45001:2018 is the leading international benchmark for occupational health and safety (OH&S) management systems, developed to support and recognise organisations that are serious about improving employee safety, reducing workplace risks and creating better, safer working conditions.

It enables organisations to proactively improve occupational health and safety management and provides reassurance to employees and customers that workplace safety is a priority. To achieve certification, the site underwent a rigorous, independent assessment covering a range of areas including risk assessment, emergency preparedness and staff training, confirming that it provides a safe and healthy working environment for staff and is committed to continually raising its practice. www.siderise.com

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/cpdonline-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

CUTTING EDGE INVESTMENT AT CRITTALL WINDOWS

Crittall has become the only steel window manufacturer with fully integrated business management, order processing & fabrication systems following the completion of a project to introduce stateof-the-art software & machinery. The installation of KLAES product configurator software and two new CNC machines will streamline the business operations from quote and initial order through manufacture and delivery cutting out time-consuming processes and paperwork.

The result will be increased output, productivity and efficiency as well as new products brought to market more speedily. “This investment in KLAES software and additional CNC machinery responds to increased demand for our thermally broken steel windows and doors as well as our Innervision internal screens,” says Crittall Windows Managing Director Russell Ager. The technology reduces lead-times, makes data accessible across the business and revolutionises the tracking of orders. It also feeds into the company’s advanced ERP or Enterprise Resource Planning software that controls all aspects of the business including finance and inventory. www.crittall-windows.co.uk

SIDERISE ACCREDITATION SUCCESS WITH ISO 45001

FLOWCRETE LAUNCHES NEW USER-FRIENDLY WEBSITE

CPG UK’s Flowcrete has announced the launch of its new website aimed to transform the user journey for architects, specifiers, and contractors. The website provide san enhanced and intuitive experience, making it easier than ever for construction professionals to access the information and resources they need.

The newly revamped website boasts a clean and modern design, reflecting CPG UK Flowcrete’s commitment to innovation and industry leadership. Visitors will discover an accessible interface that offers effortless navigation and improved functionality across various devices. One of the key objectives behind Flowcrete’s new website redesign was to simplify the process of finding the right flooring solutions for each specific construction project. By carefully analysing the flooring demands in a myriad of markets and sectors, Flowcrete has developed tailored flooring solutions and now architects, specifiers, and contractors can easily explore Flowcrete's extensive range of products and systems, download technical information, navigate through expert insights as well as read case studies. www.flowcrete.eu/en-gb

IG MASONRY SUPPORT SPONSORS THE 2023 AJ ARCHITECTURE AWARDS

In its sixth year, the prestigious awards celebrate and reward design excellence in UK architecture and highlight the very best projects across 17+ categories from housing, health, and wellbeing to workplace and cultural projects. IG Masonry Support has chosen to sponsor the Masterplan category which rewards an overarching vision for a new development that creates a new building ensemble or neighbourhood.

Scott Denham, Sales Director of IG Masonry Support said: “IG Masonry Support is delighted to be sponsoring the AJ Architecture Awards for the first time. After visiting the awards ceremony in the past two years, we identified that these awards are a great opportunity to recognise the talented architects we have in the UK and whom we have the pleasure of working with on a range of projects.” The shortlist is expected to be announced in August and the winners will be revealed at a celebratory event that will take place on 22 November 2023 at London Hilton Metropole. To book your place for the event, visit www.awards.architectsjournal.co.uk www.igmasonrysupport.com

BRIGGSAMASCO CELEBRATES TWIN VICTORY AT MAC AWARDS

BriggsAmasco is celebrating a dual success after picking up two awards at the Mastic Asphalt Council (MAC) Awards 2023. The esteemed panel of judges at the annual contest acclaimed Briggs’ superb workmanship and refurbishment of bridge deck footpaths carried out at on the Boothferry Swing Bridge whilst top honours went to BriggsAmasco employee Paul Mulgrew

who was crowned ‘Apprentice of the Year’. BriggsAmasco’s work at Boothferry Swing Bridge was highly commended in the Car Decks and Paving Project of the Year.

The programme’s waterproofing element saw the company install new mastic asphalt to fit with the bridge deck specification, complete with precoated chippings rolled onto the surface. Their experience and expertise in this field is second-to-none. Held at London’s Royal Horseguards Hotel on 16th June, the Mastic Asphalt Council (MAC) Awards has become one of the most prestigious in the calendar for the waterproofing industry with the 2023 event seeing the awards reaching its 25th anniversary milestone. www.briggsamasco.co.uk

JAMES JONES & SONS LAUNCHES NEW ADDITION TO THE JJI-JOIST PRODUCT RANGE

The Timber Systems Division of leading forestry and sawmilling business, James Jones & Sons Ltd, has announced the addition of a new product – the JJI Wall Stud. James Jones & Sons operates the largest, fastest and most efficient I-Joist line in Europe. Made in the UK at its engineered timber manufacturing plant in Forres, the JJI Wall Stud offers a low carbon solution to the UK and European construction market.

Angus Macfarlane, General Manager of Timber Systems Division, said “The JJI Wall Stud has been developed to complement changes in Part L legislation that requires more efficient insulation in timber frame and modular homes. More than ever there is a need for highly insulated, healthy homes and the JJI Wall Stud, in combination with different types of insulation, helps achieve this. We will manufacture the JJI Wall Stud in easy to handle and easy to cut lengths to offer flexibility to the off-site manufacturing process. The JJI Wall Stud is available via our existing distribution network throughout the UK and Europe. ” www.jamesjones.co.uk

THE A. PROCTOR GROUP AIDS SPECIFICATION FOR ARCHITECTS

The A. Proctor Group recognised worldwide for its extensive portfolio of technically advanced thermal, acoustic and membrane products for the construction industry, has collaborated with NBS to aid the specification process for architects and designers covering an extensive range of systems and components for floors, walls, and roofs.

Available through NBS Chorus and NBS Source, specifiers can now access a full suite of digital products and technical specifications for many of the A. Proctor Group product solutions. The collaboration with NBS provides architects and designers with a comprehensive technical specification writing service. In addition, specifiers have easy access to the manufacturer’s specification data, BIM objects, literature and third-party certifications.

The rich data available through NBS combined with the expertise of the A. Proctor Group’s technical team will help to make the specification process quicker, more effective, and more accurate, saving time and cost. Links and buttons will also be added to the NBS website to ensure that subscribed architects can specify directly from the web in as few clicks as possible. www.proctorgroup.com

BARRY TOPS 25 YEARS

As GEZE UK celebrate 35 years in business, one of the company’s longest serving members of staff, Area Sales Manager, Barry Topham, celebrates 25 years with the company. In this time, Barry has seen the company grow hugely; back when he started there was just 23 staff and turnover of £3m, today the company employs over 250 people and turnover is over £35m.

Barry has also witnessed many changes in the industry, he says “The growth of automated doors and the windows sector is astounding, yet there have also been negative changes. There has been a deterioration of quality on site, such as the use of chipboard doors, and the influx of low quality, inferior finished products at lowest price is not good - it means the expected product life is far too short. However, the GEZE brand is still recognised in the market place as a reliable, quality supplier of door and window control products – and one of the reasons I have stayed. Another, is my customers – I always do what is best for both GEZE and the customer and my relationships with the vast majority of them is excellent and akin to friendship, which makes doing business more pleasurable.”

Barry runs his sales area as if it was his own company, his extensive knowledge of the market and the GEZE products enables him to ensure his customers get the advice they need and the best solution for their project. Andy Howland, GEZE UK’s Sales and Marketing Director said “I have worked with Barry for many years, his knowledge of GEZE and the industry is second to none, he is dedicated and passionate about what he does and is a real asset to the company.” Previous to joining GEZE Barry worked as an Architectural Ironmonger and was a GEZE customer so he knows the business from both sides. Originally, he was employed at GEZE as a Specification Manager working with architects and planners but as soon as an Area Sales Manager role became available he snapped it up. Barry now covers central England and south Wales. www.geze.co.uk

ILLBRUCK ATTENDS EDINBURGH SPECIFI EVENT IN SEPTEMBER

Illbruck, a brand of Tremco CPG UK, showcased it’s game-changing offering of market-leading membranes at Specifi Architecture Event in Edinburgh this September. As a true manufacturer of building materials within the UK and Europe, illbruck is proud to be able to offer architects and specifiers, with complaint and compatible solutions for both façade and building protection.

With the focus of it's “tech talks” being on a building’s built up wall, illbruck's experts talked with those around the table about it's products, technical support and offering to the industry. Partnering with Specifi gave illbruck the opportunity to connect with architects, specifiers, colleagues and industry professionals who wanted to understand more about what illbruck has to offer!

Laura Smith, Head of Marketing at Tremco CPG UK commented, “We are heavily investing in the future of our brands and the products which we offer to the construction industry. With recent changes to building regulations, it is vitally important that solutions offered are compliant, compatible and sourced from a responsible manufacturer.” “Attending Specifi architectural event provided the team at illbruck with a great opportunity to come together with architects, specifiers and industry professionals, to showcase it's approach.” www.illbruck.com/en-gb/home

ROCKWOOL ® LAUNCHES NEW SOUNDPRO GUIDE

To support specifiers in selecting acoustic solutions for education and residential applications, ROCKWOOL ® has launched ROCKWOOL SoundPro. The specialist guide combines technical data, product information and the latest regulatory advice in one place, aiding the specification of stone wool solutions for settings where sound insulation is key.

ROCKWOOL SoundPro outlines the importance and principles of good acoustic design and how to effectively enhance the acoustic capabilities of building projects. As noise pollution is now regarded as a public health problem that affects millions across the UK, the need for effective acoustic insulation in our buildings is more prevalent than ever. As such, ROCKWOOL SoundPro includes various strategies and functions that can reduce the amount of unwanted noise transfer through walls, floors or roofs. Complementing these approaches are the latest ROCKWOOL solutions that provide acoustic benefits for each application area of the building, including internal wall solutions, façade and external wall solutions and flat roof solutions.

ROCKWOOL SoundPro also outlines additional benefits of stone wool insulation beyond acoustics, including fire and thermal performance, as well as durability and indefinite recycling. This guide also summarises acoustic regulations for England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland with detail for both new and existing and residential and education settings. rockwool.com/uk/soundpro

SIKA BECOMES EARLY ADOPTER OF THE CODE FOR CONSTRUCTION PRODUCT INFORMATION – ACHIEVING PRODUCT SET VERIFICATION FOR SINGLE PLY ROOF SYSTEMS

Global building product manufacturer Sika has become an early adopter of the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) which has been published to drive higher standards in the presentation of construction product information within the manufacturing industry. Globally renowned for high quality construction solutions and with a commitment to raising industry standards, Sika is one of the first product manufacturers to have achieved CCPI verification of its first product set for Single Ply Roof systems.

The company maintains a strong focus on transparency and by committing to the code it will provide further independent assurance and greater confidence in the information associated to its CCPI-verified product-set. There are 11 Clauses within the CCPI assessment which cover a wide range of matters from responsibility for product information, to transparency of performance, proof of stated claims, general information and competency.

“We are delighted that Sika is an early adopter of the code,” said Mark Gatrell – Head of Business Unit Roofing for Sika in the UK. “The Code is aiming to drive the highest standards in product information, setting a level playing field for all construction manufacturers to ensure that the information they provide is clear, accurate, up-to-date and unambiguous. We’re proud to be working proactively with the CCPI to raise standards in product information management.” For more information visit the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) www.sika.co.uk/roofing

ROCKWOOL ® SUPPORTS CONSTRUCTION PROFESSIONALS WITH NEW E-LEARNING PLATFORM

Stone wool insulation manufacturer, ROCKWOOL has expanded its technical and specification support with the launch of ROCKWOOL Learning, a new e-learning platform that makes it easier for construction professionals to access learning resources and track personal development. Designed for self-guided learning, the platform allows registered users to access experience-appropriate content and complete self-selected modules at their own pace. Learning progress is automatically tracked through the platform, giving users an accurate CPD record and removing the need to manually record the completion of eligible activities.

While initial launch provides access to instructional and informational content for architects and contractors, ROCKWOOL has a clear roadmap to expand its offering over the coming months to accommodate other construction stakeholders including housebuilders, self-builders, and fire or HVAC specialists. "Best practices and legislation in the construction industry are always evolving, so it's essential for specifiers and contractors to have access to up-to-date development and training opportunities. ROCKWOOL Learning is our latest investment to help enhance the skills and knowledge of those in the industry,"said Paul Barrett, Head of Product Management at ROCKWOOL.

"We want to empower industry professionals with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions when it comes to selecting insulation solutions. In the coming months, we will develop the platform with additional courses and training to assist with personal development across an even wider variety of building topics.” To get started with ROCKWOOL Learning, visit rockwool.com/uk/advice-and-inspiration/learning/

INVESTMENT IN CPD SEES ISO CHEMIE SUPPORT PASSIVLUX BRANCH OPENING

Window and door sealant tape specialist ISO Chemie is continuing to invest in supporting its network of UK distributors with a new CPD presentation held at the opening of Passivlux’s latest branch. The move saw ISO Chemie’s UK sales and operations manager Andy Swift at the window supplier’s Brighton branch, where a new Velfac, Unilux and Solarlux showroom has been opened for trade installers and specifiers across the South of England, who use ISO BLOCO and Hybratec multi-functional joint sealing tapes on installations to protect windows from thermal loss.

Delivered onsite and forming part of CPD training, the well-attended Brighton event covered advice on effective window installation techniques, and how to identify and rectify air leakage. ISO Chemie’s CPD programme is intended to advance knowledge and understanding of airtightness and related issues, enabling specifiers and installers to improve the design and construction of buildings and boost their technical and product expertise. Guidance on the latest airtightness products and sealing solutions was also covered, which includes details of ISO-CHEMIE’s range of gap sealing solutions ISO-BLOCO WIN2WALL and BLOCO-ONE. Up to 70% cost savings can be achieved when using these tapes for high performance window sealing, rather than the current three component systems. www.iso-chemie.eu/en-GB/home/

INTRODUCING FLOWCRETE’S ISOCRETE ULTIMATE K-SCREED ADDITIVE

Flowcrete, a brand of CPG UK, is pleased to announce a new addition to it's screed range, Isocrete Ultimate K-Screed. Used in conjunction with approved sand and cement for semi dry cementitious screeds, Isocrete Ultimate K-Screed is a liquid additive suitable for most commercial applications. Flowcrete's award-winning Isocrete Floor Screeds range has been a market leader in the UK since 1969 and Flowcrete is excited to share that it's range is expanding with Isocrete Ultimate K-Screed.

Offering compelling speed of application benefits, less waste and exceptional strength, Isocrete Ultimate K-Screed is applied through Flowcrete’s licensed contractor network and a a remarkable 10-year warranty is offered after installation. Isocrete Ultimate K-Screed, which can be pumped and subsequently dosed, delivers a screed that can be trafficked or overlaid quickly due to the reduced water content within the mix.

This gives rapid drying and rapid strength gain enabling less down time than traditional methods as well as assisting with the work schedule. It can also be incorporated in underfloor heating with a thickness as low as 50mm and has a high compressive strength meaning it can withstand load and construction traffic. Stuart Smith, Construction Products Group (CPG) UK & Ireland’s sales manager for flooring said: “Isocrete Ultimate K-Screed dosages can be amended to suit specific applications depending on floor finish and strength requirements. A sand testing and compressive strength service is offered to ensure that the required criteria is achieved. This unique formulation allows the system to be trafficked in as little as 24 hours, has a 3-day drying time, and a compressive strength of >40N/mm in comparison to the rest of our range. " www.flowcrete.eu/en-gb

ACCESS 360 CELEBRATES CPD SUCCESS

Access 360, one of the UK’s leading access solutions manufacturers, delivered over 150 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) seminars throughout 2022, sharing expert knowledge and advice with over 3,000 architects, specifiers and contractors. As a building products manufacturer positioned at the forefront of industry advancements, Access 360’s complete suite of RIBA-accredited CPDs provide industry professionals with the very latest guidance on regulations and best practice.

3,153 professionals attended 156 CPDs last year, which were delivered by Access 360’s experienced team of Specifcation Sales Managers as part of online webinars or in person seminars. This includes its most popular CPD, Fire & Smoke Access Solutions, which explores the fundementals of fire ratings and certification, in addition to successfully managing access, fire safety and security requirements for commercial and residential buildings.

The Roof Access and Natural Smoke Ventilation for Flat Roofs CPD outlines current practice regarding the provision of smoke ventilation and roof access, whilst discussing new design considerations and applications as a result of latest Building Regulations. It also provides best practice guidance on the installation of roof safety products.

Access 360’s flagship CPD, Safe, Practical and Aesthetic Roof, Celing, Wall and Floor Access Solutions, provides an essential guide to the specification of access solutions. Exploring the purpose and reason for access, whilst also identifying and overcoming access challenges, the CPD advises professionals on how to successfully meet the requirements of all project types. Marcus Parnham, Commercial Director for Access 360, said: “As one of the industry’s leading manufacturers of access solutions, we have a repsonsbility to ensure we are supporting industry professionals in achieving successful and compliant specifications for every project."

“That’s why we are committed to delivering an extensive CPD programme that addresses the very latest regulatory changes, in addition to current industry trends and requirements. Throughout 2023, we will be building on last year’s success to provide even more professionals with the advice and guidance they require.”

Access 360 will be extending its CPD programme throughout 2023 and is encouraging construction professionals to contact them regarding topics they require information and support on. To submit a suggestion, or to sign up to an online CPD, or arrange for one of Access 360’s Specification Sales Managers to deliver a CPD seminar in person, please email cpd@ access-360.co.uk.

Access 360 comprises of Bilco UK, Profab Access and Howe Green, which together provide a total manufacturing solution for roof, ceiling, wall and floor access products to the construction industry. For further information on Access 360 visit www.access-360.co.uk

SCHLÜTER-SYSTEMS HELPS ARCHITECTS AND SPECIFIERS WITH RIBA-APPROVED CPD PROGRAMME

Schlüter-Systems, the market leading specialist in innovative solutions for tile and stone installations, has been offering support and advice to architects and specifiers for over 25 years. Today, this support includes RIBA approved CPD seminars, delivered by experienced Schlüter-Systems specification experts. The range of five 45-60 minute CPD seminars focuses on key application areas:

10 point plan for a perfect wetroom - This CPD looks at the design and specification stage of wetroom installations; focusing on waterproofing requirements, understanding the difference between waterproof and water-resistance, and reviewing British Standards and Building Regulations relating to tiled wetroom applications. Lighting, acoustics and under tile heating are also included.

Considerations for tile and stone installations - Understanding the differences in the specification for wet and dry areas, and walls

SIDERISE LAUNCHES TECHNICAL DEEP DIVES TO SHARE ITS KNOWLEDGE OF PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION AND NOISE CONTROL.

Siderise has launched the first in the series of its new Technical Deep Dives— short free e-learning modules

and floors, British Standards-compliant tile fixing, the correct support beneath the tiles to prevent future problems and the importance of a good cleaning and maintenance schedule all comprise this module.

Integrated underfloor heating systems - Choosing the correct type of underfloor heating for a project is covered by studying the benefits of modular screed systems versus traditional screeds and looking at using the right system to save time, money and materials. Also explored are the capabilities of underfloor heating systems and their ability to run at reduced temperatures.

Solutions for crack-free tile and stone coverings - This CPD module covers the key steps needed to achieve a crack-free finish for tiles and stone by focusing on movement joints and uncoupling membranes, including the selection and positioning of movement joints, the history of uncoupling and specifying in line with British Standards.

External applications with tile and stone - This module looks at protecting bonded tile and stone installations on balconies, terraces and patios, managing drainage above and beneath the tile or stone covering and key design considerations for balconies where tile or stone will be installed. www.schluter.co.uk

designed to help construction professionals get to grips with key areas of passive fire protection and noise control in the built environment.

Edition 1 explores the challenges imposed upon perimeter firestops resulting from curtain wall façade and building movement, and the consequential performance requirements for providing effective compartmentation. This includes examining the test standards to look out for when specifying these products.

With one set to be released bi-monthly, these Technical Deep Dives break down key application issues in an easy-to-understand and visual way. They have been created to share the knowledge, experience and insights of the manufacturer’s Technical Experts who have worked on all kinds of projects all over the world helping designers

and contractors to understand how they can deliver best practice passive fire safety and noise control. Explore the first edition: https://knowledge.siderise.com

TWO DIVIDING WALLS FOR EDINBURGH GOLF CLUBHOUSE

Working directly with Kingsknowe Golf Club, Style was contracted to install two folding walls to section off parts of the clubhouse lounge and bar, adding greater adaptability to the internal layout. “With around 650 members, the clubhouse can be very busy, said David Louden, Style’s director for Scotland. “Installing two Stylefold 900 folding walls provides exceptional flexibility, allowing the clubhouse to be either left as an open plan room, or to be segregated into separate areas for different social events and meetings. “The internal blinds on the larger of the two walls offer a greater level of privacy when required.”

Founded in 1908, Kingsknowe Golf Club has a custom-built clubhouse that enjoys elegant views across north-east Edinburgh. The Club successfully blends the traditions of the sport with a modern and welcoming outlook that reflects the expectations of todays’ golfing community. The request to divide the clubhouse space was initially for just one folding wall, however after they saw the quality of Style’s work, and the benefits that the flexible space afforded, a second partition was added a few months later.

The initial folding wall enables staff to section off a small, private dining room away from the main lounge bar. This is ideal for competitions, visiting societies and other gatherings. The second wall further divides the room, giving a greater level of privacy when shut thanks to internal blinds between the glass. With both walls offering a 31dB acoustic rating, additional events can now take place without being disturbed by activities in the main bar. www.style-partitions.co.uk

STRONG AND STRIKING; THE APOLLO SURFACE FROM KÖNIGSTONE’S NEW ATHENA COLLECTION

Further to the launch of The Athena Collection, Königstone will now focus on the individual surfaces and what each of them has to offer. First up is the mysterious, Apollo - the only surface of its kind in the collection due to its dark shade. As the design is printed onto the surface, the Athena Collection replicates the defined and intricate veining of natural stone more realistically than traditional Quartz.

Königstone has chosen a light grey core colour for the Apollo so any drainer grooves and exposed edges creates a stunning contrast against the darker shade, as shown here. There are many benefits of adding a dark surface to a kitchen design; it becomes a focal point in the busy room while also being durable, easy-to-clean and stain-resistant. It’s a perfect surface for entertaining, arts and crafts with the children, and creating delicious dishes all year round. The surfaces in the Athena Collection illustrate the very latest innovations in engineered stone manufacturing. All materials are available book-matched, in a classical soft leather finish with a size of 3200 x 1600 x 20mm. www.konigstone.co.uk

SCHLÜTER-SYSTEMS LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE

Schlüter-Systems is the largest and most innovative manufacturer of system solutions for the function, protection and decoration of tile and natural stone in the world. The key advantage of specifying Schlüter-Systems is the opportunity to utilise the wealth of experience gained by the UK team over the last 30 years providing integrated system solutions for the bathroom designer and installer, developer, architect and specifier. As such, the customer’s online experience must reflect this impeccable experience and knowledge – and so the launch of the UK website has been developed to answer the markets’ demands for failsafe solutions to everyday challenges.

The new website is fresh and visually appealing while the products are easy to find and explained concisely. Technical information is comprehensive; yet the products are introduced in a straightforward, digestible way with filters making it possible to search by materials, colours or sizes. Sophie Mileson, who headed the website project, explained the thinking behind the new look, “e wanted to make the new website more user-friendly and give it a refresh, particularly for those who are unfamiliar with our products and weren't sure how to find what they were looking for. Whilst the launch is a big step forward for us in terms of the design and usability, over time the website will continue to be optimised and updated, with the introduction of more content and features.“ www.schluter.co.uk

ACOUSTICS HELP EATING IN COMFORT

By their very nature of being large, open spaces with many hard surfaces, ambient noise levels in bars and restaurants tends to be high. This inevitably leads to customers talking louder to be heard and so begins a perpetual cycle of increased noise levels as everyone starts to have increasingly louder conversations. This, coupled with noise from music, kitchen machinery and HVAC services, can easily ruin the experience.

To help combat the problems of reverberating sound, designers frequently specify acoustic ceilings to help to strike a balance between a lively and welcoming environment and an experience where the space is uncomfortably loud. This is important because customers’ comfort and a willingness to spend time and money is decreased in a noisy environment.

A good example of this is the Chamberlain Hotel in London where sustainable and ethical designers Sibley Grove have used Troldtekt acoustic panels to counterpoint the reverberating noise reflecting from the stripped-back architecture with its exposed structural columns, ductwork and concrete surfaces. Troldtekt acoustic panels are a perfect solution for this type of venue either as part of a suspended ceiling or individual ‘acoustic clouds’.

They are available in a variety of different surfaces and colours and combine sound absorption with a tactile surface. With an expected life cycle of at least 50 years and resistance to humidity and impact, they are available in various sizes and four grades, from extreme fine to coarse. The panels can be left untreated or painted in almost any RAL colour. Depending on the panel specified, reaction to fire is classed in accordance with EN 13501 as B-s1,d0 or A2-s1,d0 respectively.

Founded on the Cradle-to-Cradle design concept and having attained Gold certification, Troldtekt wood wool acoustic panels are manufactured using wood from certified forests (PEFC ™ and FSC ® C115450) and can contribute positively to a building’s BREEAM, DGNB or LEED points. More information on how acoustics can provide solutions for hospitality areas can be found at https://www.troldtekt.com/references/ hotel-restaurant while samples and technical guidance is available from www.troldtekt.com

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

OPEN CALL FOR THE 22ND EDITION OF THE TILE OF SPAIN AWARDS IN ARCHITECTURE AND INTERIOR DESIGN

The prestigious international awards return offering a total prize fund of 35,000 euros shared between three categories: Architecture, Interior Design and Final Degree Project. Entry is free and the closing date for submissions is 18 October 2023.

ASCER (The Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturers’ Association) has announced the 22 nd edition of the Tile of Spain Awards of Architecture and Interior Design, a long established programme aiming to highlight national and international projects that make important and innovative use of ceramic tiles manufactured in Spain. Renowned for the high standard of the winning projects and the composition of the judging panel, the awards are highly regarded among professionals in the field of architecture and design.

The judging panel will be chaired by architect Carme Pinós and made up of experts from the fields of architecture and design: Inma Bermúdez of Studio Inma Bermúdez, Jesús Olivares of COR Asociados Arquitectos, Gracia Cardona, director of the magazine DiarioDesign and Susana Babiloni, director of the College of Architects of Castellón.

The Awards offer a total prize fund of €35,000 and are divided into three categories: The two main categories, Architecture and Interior Design, are awarded €15,000 each, while the third category, Final Degree Project, encourages entries from architecture students and is worth €5,000. The window for submitting projects for the 22nd Awards is now open with a deadline of Wednesday 18th October 2023.

Entries are welcomed from anywhere in the world, the only requirement is that the projects include Spanish ceramic tiles. The judging panel sits in early November and winners and special mentions will be announced in December. The Awards will be given out a special ceremony at the Cevisama Tile Fair in Valencia in February 2024.

The competition rules and entry form are available on the Awards website at www.tileofspainawards. com where images, plans and details of the winning projects from the previous editions can also be downloaded. Interviews with previous winners can be seen here: https://www.youtube.com/user/ ascercomunicacion

The winners of the last edition of the Ceramic Awards were: in the architecture category, "Social housing in Ibiza", by Estudio de Arquitectura Ripoll-Tizón; first prize in interior design went to "Ávila.

Planning an empty space" by ALL AROUND LAB; and in the category for students, Marta Millanes Sánchez of the Toledo School of Architecture was recognised for the project "Rampant architecture. The town and the home". Visit www.tileofspainawards.com for more information

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

CREATING THE PERFECT BACKDROP FOR SHOWING CUTTING-EDGE COMMERCIAL INTERIOR DESIGN

In the heart of Clerkenwell - acknowledged as the global epicentre for design - is the newly-refurbished Brunner showroom. Here, Armourcoat’s sustainable luxury finishes are creating an elegant and sophisticated backdrop to Brunner’s progressive, multifunctional workspace pieces. The London showroom occupies three floors of a former Victorian warehouse that in its lifetime has also been a brewery and cinema. The space has enabled the formation of a sophisticated hospitality ambience for receptions and presentations, with vaulted bays providing vignettes of today’s modern, agile workspaces whilst allowing more intimate areas for meetings. To blend the industrial heritage of the building with its progressive design particularly in the lounge space, Brunner chose its collaborator Armourcoat. Armourcoat Acoustic Plaster, Polished Plaster and cast panels combine to enhance the stylish, relaxed environment aesthetically, physically and psychologically, optimising the health & wellbeing of the occupants.

This has been complemented by sculptural Cast Panels in Corinth with a concrete look- a design of finely contoured linear scallops and flattened peaks. Observes Oliver Shinegold, Brunner Sales Director: “We have partnered with Armourcoat for more than a decade. Its reputation precedes it as being the leading supplier of polished plaster and concrete surface finishes. The Armourcoat team's exceptional and dependable service, extending from the installation process to the final outcome, has consistently met and exceeded our expectations. Their commitment to sustainability, durability, and longevity is second to none." "For our refurbishment, Armourcoat's skilled artisans were able to craft a prefabricated fluted polished plaster tile that seamlessly integrates with the surrounding space. The result is a dual-aspect textured wall finish, with inset framed images and dramatic shadowing that embellishes the space that we are confident will become a ‘go to’ venue for the commercial design industry.” www.armourcoat.com

HAMWORTHY LAUNCHES NEW CIBSE ACCREDITED HEAT PUMP CPD AND WHITE PAPER

Hamworthy Heating is pleased to announce the arrival of two new resources – ‘An Introduction to Heat Pumps’ CIBSE Approved CPD and ‘The Hamworthy Roadmap to Decarbonisation’ White Paper. Ideal for specifiers and installers wishing to understand more about heat pumps and the latest industry developments, ‘An Introduction to Heat Pumps’ is the latest CIBSEaccredited Continuous Professional Development (CPD) course from Hamworthy Heating. The latest CPD offering highlights the different types of commercial heat pump equipment available and explores the influencing factors which need to be considered before heat pump selection.

To further support the transition to low carbon heating and hot water, the new ‘Hamworthy Roadmap to Decarbonisation: Planning Your Journey’ White Paper features an in-depth examination of decarbonisation. Looking at the current landscape; the latest White Paper from Hamworthy discusses the challenges of implementing a roadmap to decarbonisation and how heat pumps play a pivotal role in this transition. www.hamworthy-heating.com

GEBERIT LAUNCHES INNOVATIVE FLOWFIT PIPING SYSTEM

Geberit has launched a new multi-layer supply piping system to the UK market after eight years of intensive research and development. Geberit FlowFit is the manufacturer’s biggest product launch to the UK in recent years and will combine the versatility of Geberit’s multi-layer piping system together with the installation benefits of Geberit’s unique press-fit method. FlowFit is suitable for both potable water and heating applications. The pipe consists of three layers, a central aluminium layer which makes the pipe strong yet flexible, with a plastic (PE-RT) layer either side of this to prevent corrosion and ensure a smooth internal bore.

Geberit FlowFit also marks a huge step in the manufacturer’s sustainability journey. Geberit has developed new facilities with injection moulding technologies at the manufacturing stage to reduce energy intensity and cut journeys throughout production processes to help minimise carbon footprint of the new product. In addition, the manufacturer has also incorporated a bag to collect discarded pressing indicators into the design process for the first time to make it simpler for teams to return plastic parts and reduce waste on-site. www.geberit.co.uk/FlowFit

NEW EVO S CASCADE BUILDER TOOL FROM ACV UK MAKES PRODUCT SELECTION EASY

Following on from the launch of its latest EVO S wall-hung boiler range, ACV UK, stainless steel, hot water and heating specialist, is pleased to announce the introduction of its new EVO S Cascade Builder Tool, designed to help simplify the product selection process of cascade arrangements. For installations that require more output delivered flexibly, an Evo S cascade system can be installed with up to 6 boilers. Available with a range of plate heat exchangers and low-loss headers, the new EVO S Cascade Builder Tool identifies all the ACV products needed for an efficient heating system.

By answering a few short, simple questions about the installation such as the number of EVO S boilers to be cascaded, the highest single boiler output, gas type, and type of hydraulic separation required, the new EVO S Cascade Builder will list all the products needed on screen. It can be downloaded as a PDF and sent directly by email for maximum convenience. The new EVO S range of wall-hung condensing boilers with stainless steel heat exchanger technology provides an efficient solution that can help to maximise savings. To see how the EVO S Cascade Builder Tool works visit https://www.acv.com/gb/page/evo-s-cascade-builder or for more information on ACV products, please go to https://www.acv.com/gb

NEW PROGRAMMABLE ROOM THERMOSTAT FROM ESI

With a reputation for helping homeowners and tenants to control their heating costs as the cost of living stays high in the UK, 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.And the new addition to the ESi range is an attractive addition as well. The 4 Touch has a large backlit LCD display and touch screen making it simple-to-use and programme.

It 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

LG ACHIEVES QUIET MARK FOR THERMA V MONOBLOC ‘S’

LG Electronics has recently achieved the Quiet Mark accreditation for its leading air to water heat pump – the Therma V Monobloc "S". LG has been awarded the Quiet Mark for a wide range of more than 100 of its home appliances – washing machines and the like - but this is the first Air Solutions product to receive the accolade and now joins the esteemed line up of Quiet Mark certified products available from LG.

Quiet Mark is the independent global certification programme associated with the UK Noise Abatement Society charitable foundation. Through scientific testing and assessment Quiet Mark identifies the quietest products in multiple categories spanning many sectors, including home appliances and technology, building sector materials and commercial sector products.

Quiet Mark certification is the unique consumer and trade champion mark of approval and resource platform. It provides reliable and independent information about the sound a product makes and approved noise reduction performance before purchase with the primary focus to improve health and wellbeing. It stimulates manufacturing worldwide to prioritise responsible acoustic design to reduce noise pollution.

As a result of the Covid-Lockdowns everyone around the world is spending more time living and working at home. The search for quieter technology has now become a priority. Excess noise can increase stress levels, disturb sleep, reduce productivity, impede health recovery and impair human relations.

By choosing quieter technology and effective acoustic solutions a serene backdrop can be created to rebalance wellbeing at home, work and in every living space. By awarding the Quiet Mark to the new LG Therma V Monobloc ‘S’ it confirms that the R32 Monobloc S is one of the quietest, and most technically effective products in noise reduction or acoustic properties available on the market in its category.

This new ‘S’ version set unparalleled sales figures in 2022 as more and more housebuilders and developers, local authorities and social housing providers moved to use renewable options in their new build homes and begin the process of replacing older and inefficient gas boilers with an option that future proofs their new and existing homes in the years ahead.

The LG R32 Monobloc ‘S’ air to water heat pump range offers lower noise levels per unit by up to 3dB(A) compared to the previous model. And includes an integral Compressor Noise Shield which is a key feature across the full line up. Low noise and high performance is achieved by adopting BLDC inverter motor technology and an improved fan and orifice. The unit comes with a Seasonal Coefficient of Performance of up to 4.67 (Average climate/Low temperature application) and a A+++ rating.

The COP rises to 4.9 (Outdoor air 7°C/ Leaving water temperature 35°C) and can deliver leaving water temperature of 65°C if required. The models that have achieved the Quiet Mark accreditation are the 5, 7, 9 & 12kW models in single phase as well as the newb 9 & 12kW three

phase models. For more information on the LG Therma V Monobloc ‘S’ head for partner.lge.com/ uk, or email LG at uk.aircon@lge.com. To learn more about Quiet Mark, head for https:// www.quietmark.com/ about

DOUBLE-LEAF ALUMINIUM ENTRANCE DOORS NOW AVAILABLE FROM HÖRMANN UK

Hörmann UK have announced the addition of a double-leaf option to their range of aluminium entrance doors. The TopComfort Portal, offers the combination of a modern, high quality, secure door together with the opportunity to create a truly imposing entrance for any style of home.

Constructed using high quality materials featuring a PU foam core within an aluminium skin and an aluminium frame as standard, TopComfort Portal provides long-term, operational stability. It also features RC3 security as standard, good acoustic insulation, and excellent thermal performance with a U value of 1.2 W/M 2 K being achievable.

A good-looking door is guaranteed with the solid door leaf being fully flush on both the exterior and interior of the door, together with flush fitting between the traffic and fixed leaf. Doors can be manufactured in widths up to 2600mm and heights up to 2500mm, with seven different door styles being available. The ability to create an impressive, custom-designed

entrance is further enhanced with an extensive choice of handles and accessories, together with twenty-three preferred colour options including the ever-popular Anthracite grey and on-trend contemporary Black.

The Hörmann group have recently announced that due to their long-term commitment to sustainable manufacturing and green initiatives they are the first and only construction component manufacturer to offer CO 2 neutral garage doors, entrance doors and residential internal doors.

With end-consumers continuing to show an interest in CO 2 neutral products Hörmann doors continue to set standards in quality and innovation, together with providing the market with a brand that is trusted and has high recognition. www.hormann.co.uk

LARGE AUTOMATIC ENTRANCE POD CREATES STRIKING OFFICE RECEPTION

Creating a contemporary entrance solution, TORMAX recently installed a fully automatic, curved-sliding entrance pod to the Grade A office facility, Granite House, in Leicestershire. Working closely with Benchmark Property and Beacon Commercial Solutions, who was undertaking an ambitious refurbishment of the entire reception area, TORMAX recommended this modern take on the traditional revolving door, as a highly practical option that offers easy access for all users whilst also helping maintain an ambient internal temperature.

At busy times, the double set of curved bi-parting sliding doors can be programmed to open in tandem, creating an opening space up to 40% greater than offered by linear sliding doors. When foot traffic is light, or in poor weather, the doors can be set to work independently, reducing heat loss from the building by creating an effective airlock between the reception and the outdoors.

Granite House is situated on the well-established Watermead Business Park, on the northern side of Leicester, and provides some of the best quality office space in the region. The extensive refurbishment included a feature stairwell, a new business lounge

and meeting area with complimentary concierge service, as well as the aesthetically impactful TORMAX automatic entrance pod. The pod doors are powered by discreet TORMAX iMotion 2202.A operators which offer a multitude of impressive advantages. Developed in-house in Switzerland, the iMotion 2202.A boasts an extended life expectancy due to the absence of parts that typically wear out, such as gears and brushes.

Advanced AC motor technology and state-of-the-art microprocessor controls combine to deliver seamless reliability and smooth operation, automatically adjusting door leaf movement in response to external factors, such as increased wind conditions, for example. Moreover, the operator casing is just 100mm high, ensuring an elegant and unobtrusive profile, making it a perfect fit for upmarket environments such as Granite House. www.tormax.co.uk

35 YEARS AND COUNTING

2023 sees GEZE UK celebrate another milestone in the company’s history – 35 years in business, and in that time the company has grown and developed hugely. Formed in 1988, GEZE UK was the second subsidiary to be established by German parent company, GEZE GmbH, following GEZE France. Based in Chelmsford, Essex, the company started trading mainly in the distribution of door closer products. Recognising a gap in the UK market, a new division was set up in 1997, in Tamworth, Staffordshire to concentrate on the provision of complete automatic door solutions from design to installation and including technical advice and guidance on building regulations. By 2003, GEZE UK had outgrown the Chelmsford office and the decision was taken to merge it and the Tamworth operation into new purpose-built premises at Fradley Park in Lichfield, Staffordshire.

In 2008 the first service office was set up followed by a further 6 offices throughout the UK. The Scottish office, near Glasgow, is a full service provider for the Scottish market, dedicated to the specification, installation and service of automatic doors. Kaz Spiewakowski, MD of GEZE UK, said “During my 10 years at GEZE UK I have seen many changes and challenges including Brexit, the Covid pandemic and a recent cyber-attack. As a company we have shown fantastic resilience and the ability to all pull together in difficult circumstances. From a handful of staff in the early days to over 250 today, the company would not have developed as it has without their expertise, determination and dedication."

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

MODULAR HOUSE BUILDER OPENS THE WINDOW TO NEW ISO CHEMIE WINFRAMER SPECIFICATION

ISO Chemie’s thermal insulating and load bearing bracket support system has been specified by a leading modular house builder for installation in its new designs. The development sees WINFRAMER units along with WIN2WALL multi-level sealing tape supplied to CoreHaus, as part of the company’s five-year plan to produce around 1,000 precision engineered units a year built using modern methods of construction (MMC) to deliver long term energy cost savings.

Passivhaus certified and fire rated to up to 30 minutes, WINFRAMER is a prefabricated installation frame, manufactured to accommodate cavities up to 250mm that allows windows to be supported independently from the face of the wall regardless of any external cladding being in place. ISO-BLOCO WIN2WALL enables window and door gaps between 2 mm to 8 mm to be easily sealed from inside the property.

Available in two widths to give the extra thermal insulation equivalent to A Rated (40mm tape) or A+ and A++ windows (65 mm tape), the tape is able to accommodate the vast majority of UK window installations. Among the key advantages of WIN2WALL are not only its thermal performance, but it is also weather tight to 600 Pa (Violent Storm Force 11) and has excellent acoustic insulation properties. www.iso-chemie.eu/en-GB/home/

ENERGY EFFICIENT WOODEN WINDOWS AND DOORS

Consumers are increasingly looking to upgrade their home to be more energy efficient. For period properties this is especially a problem, with many having draughty, single glazed windows. However, providing planning permissions allow it, there is no reason why period properties cannot benefit from double glazed windows and doors while also retaining their traditional style. The Sash Window Workshop were contacted to help upgrade 17 windows and some French doors at a neo-Georgian property in a Conservation Area in West London.

The new joinery needed to be double glazed but otherwise a replica of the original windows and door. Most of the window frames were in a good condition, so a quotation was provided for a mixture of new sashes into the existing frames and, for items where the frame had deteriorated, complete replacement. The customer decided to proceed with the work and a survey was arranged to confirm the measurements before the windows and door were manufactured and installed. After the work was completed, they commented: “The new windows and doors are exactly what we had hoped for, and we are very pleased with the installation.” www.sashwindow.com

A WINDOW ON UNIQUE GARAGE DOOR DESIGNS

One of the biggest advantages of choosing a bespoke garage door is being able to incorporate windows of many different types. Unlike standard garage doors, which will usually only be available with relatively small windows, a made to order garage door from Rundum Meir can offer something completely different with much more creative potential. Whether it is a ‘mediaeval’ style to suit a historic building, reflecting Georgian grandeur or to achieve an ultra-contemporary look, there are numerous ways the garage door can be designed to feature windows. Choosing a garage door with larger windows is an excellent way to give an existing garage new purpose or enable new garages to be created with the flexibility to use the space as an annexe.

The garage’s purpose does not have to be limited to simply being a place to park the car! Specifying a garage door with windows will allow plenty of natural light to be introduced into the garage. This is important where the aim is to create a comfortable internal environment for uses such as a home office, a workshop or indoor play area, a games room or a gym, with the added benefit of natural light’s ability to enhance productivity and even our mood. For classic car collectors, or those who have a collection they want to be able to see from outdoors on their terms, having larger windows is a must.

A large garage can become a private showroom by specifying garage doors with full height windows. Shading and privacy as and when it is required could even be incorporated by specifying motorised integral blinds or switchable smart glass into the double glazed windows. The flexibility to incorporate windows in many different shapes and sizes comes with choosing a bespoke garage door from Rundum Meir. Every garage door Rundum Meir manufactures is designed and made to order which means customers can specify the materials and finishes, along with features such as louvres and – of course – windows.

Rundum Meir offers three types of garage door that can be designed to feature windows: side sectional doors, overhead sectional doors and one piece ‘up and over’ doors.

Side sectional doors offer incredible potential for window integration. The panels that make up a side sectional door are usually made from timber or aluminium, but these can actually be full height windows to deliver a garage door that looks similar to a bi-fold door. Overhead sectional doors or one-piece up and over garage doors can also feature windows in many positions, including arranged down one side or in the centre of the door.

Coach house style doors can feature windows in the top half of the door with a height that suits aesthetic goals. These – as well as any other types of windows – can incorporate obscure glass to allow light transmission without being able to see in. For more ideas and advice, please visit www.rundumgaragedoors.co.uk

WORLD CLASS SOLUTION FOR STUNNING BARN REFURBISHMENT

Echoing the slim lines of the Visoglide doors, are the 16 Alitherm 300 casement windows and 3 EcoFutural tilt and turn windows which deliver outstanding thermal performance as well as contributing to the sleek and elegant aesthetic of the barn.

Continuing the design theme, at the rear of the property, an Alitherm Plus residential door has been installed, while a Sherbourne front door from Smart’s statement Designer Door range completes the scheme. With all the windows and doors finished in a textured black, polyester powder coat paint finish, the building will maintain its stylish good looks for many years to come, with only minimal maintenance required.

www.smartsystems.co.uk

Systems from Smart Architectural Aluminium’s high-quality window and door ranges have been installed in a barn refurbishment, bringing a new lease of life to the stunning building and echoing the outstanding quality of the design and material specification of the home’s interior and exterior.

Owned by Sally Bigg OBE and her husband Jonathan, the barn is situated in West Sussex, with the 72-year-old building sitting in two acres of land. Sally is perhaps better known by her maiden name, Gunnell, and was winner of the 1992 Olympic gold medal in the 400 metre hurdles. A former world and still the British record holder, Sally is the only female British athlete to have won Olympic, World, European and Commonwealth titles.

With such a distinguished client, the pressure was on Smart and the fabrication and installation team of Everglade Windows and Shaws Installations respectively, to deliver a world class solution to meet the performance and aesthetic needs of the project. Sally had previously owned the property and moved away, but bought it back in 2019 with a view to completely refurbishing it and moving her family back in.

Around the barn, five sets of Smart’s Visoglide lift and slide doors have been installed to create a light and airy environment throughout, as well as to provide a link between the internal and external living spaces when the doors are open.

NEW VIRTUAL SHOWROOM FEATURING REYNAERS’ PREMIUM PRODUCTS

Reynaers Aluminium UK has launched a new 360-degree virtual showroom to showcase what can be achieved with the latest aluminium systems, bringing a close-up look at its glazed solutions to customers’ fingertips. While Reynaers has a comprehensive showroom at its Birmingham headquarters, featuring many of its windows, sliding and bi-fold doors, and curtain walling systems, the high quality interactive virtual showroom will make viewing the finished product instantly accessible to fabricators, installers, architects, and homeowners across the country.

This latest step in Reynaers’ digitalisation drive takes the customer on a journey through the different products available to gain an insight into how they would look on a completed project – including information points to provide further details about each product and links to online specifications. ‘Hotspots’ on the Reynaers at Home version will provide general information geared specifically towards homeowners. Designed to replicate the existing showroom, which has the largest selection of Reynaers products anywhere in the UK, the new digital version will make viewing the installed product more accessible to Reynaers’ national network of installers and fabricators. It will also help to support the company’s goals to operate more sustainably and cut carbon emissions wherever possible. www.reynaers.co.uk

BETTER Together

Automatic door supply may seem a bit “niche” but we are part of a wider building products and construction industry. The same issues, regulations and ramifications affect us, which is why it’s important to see the bigger picture. ADSA is a member of Trade Association Forum and is actively working with other trade and professional organisations to support its members.

We are the ‘glue’ that puts the pieces together, to give you a strategic view, the best possible guidance and access to top quality learning and development. We are stronger and better together.

Join ADSA today

#bepartoftheconversation

Find out more: www.adsa.org.uk/membership

01827 216136

AN ARCHITECT'S GUIDE TO SMART SECURITY WITH KUBU

In the ever-evolving world of architectural design, the fusion of form and function remains paramount. As architectural technologists, you're always on the hunt for innovations that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your designs but also add tangible value for the endusers.

Enter Kubu, a name that's rapidly gaining traction in the realm of smart security. Security is a fundamental concern for any homeowner. Traditional locks, while effective, come with their limitations. How many times have homeowners left their premises, only to be plagued with the nagging doubt of whether they locked their door?

With the rise of smart homes, the demand for integrated, intelligent security solutions has skyrocketed. Kubu, with its patent-protected technology, offers a solution that's both innovative and intuitive. 'Works with Kubu' window and door locks provide real-time monitoring, allowing homeowners to check the security status of their home via an intuitive, user-friendly app. This not only offers peace of mind but also integrates seamlessly with other smart home products to create a full-perimeter Smart Alarm system.

While security is a clear selling point, Kubu's contribution to energy efficiency is a game-changer, especially in the context of architectural design. A home's doors and windows are critical points for heat loss. Ensuring they are securely closed can significantly impact a building's overall energy efficiency.

With Kubu's real-time monitoring, homeowners can be instantly alerted if a door or window is left ajar, preventing unnecessary energy wastage. For architects, this means the ability to offer designs that are not only secure but also sustainable. Incorporating 'Works with Kubu' locks into building specifications comes with a plethora of benefits.

By integrating Kubu's smart security, architects can offer clients an added layer of value. It's not just about a building's physical design but also about the lived experience of the occupants. A home that's secure and energy-efficient is a compelling selling point in today's market.

Kubu's design is sleek and unobtrusive, ensuring that while the technology is cutting-edge, it doesn't detract from the aesthetic appeal of the doors and windows. In a market flooded with smart home gadgets, Kubu stands out with its patent-protected technology. This not only underscores its uniqueness but also offers assurance of its quality and reliability.

As the architectural world moves towards more sustainable practices, every element of design counts. Kubu's contribution to energy efficiency can play a role in achieving sustainability certifications and benchmarks.

Looking towards the future of architectural design, the integration of technology will play an increasingly pivotal role. However, it's essential to choose technologies that offer genuine value and stand the test of time. Including doors and windows that 'Work with Kubu' in your specification will fit that bill perfectly.

Kubu, with its focus on smart security and energy efficiency, is undoubtedly an innovation worth embracing. As architectural technologists, your designs reflect the future you envision. By incorporating Kubu Smart Security products, you can take a step towards a future that's more secure, sustainable, and smart. Visit: getkubu.com/trade or email: sales@kubu-home.com

Commanding elevated and breathtaking views of the idyllic St Ives harbour, the Tregenna Castle Hotel and Resort covers 72 acres and presents a go to location for tourists and families wishing to experience the delights of sea and countryside from within an attractive mix of traditional and contemporary settings.

The hotel complex itself

is renown throughout the area and beyond UK shores, having been the location where US president Joe Biden stayed during the G7 summit in 2021. Now the resort looks to the future by expanding its portfolio with the help of Tregenna Homes, in the building of a group of select properties for private sale. Castle Village, as the development is known, provides a selection of 2 and 3 bed homes built to the highest design and environmental standards.

With an emphasis on natural affinity and sustainability, Vicaima were approached by leading merchant partners Jewson of Hayle, to provide doorsets that did justice to this ethos and embodied natural design excellence.

The Vicaima Easi-Fit door kit system was selected, which consisted of FD30 and third-party accredited fire performance options and included over height door dimensions in many areas.

The kits included a striking door design with the use of Heritage Oak horizontal veneer, combining decorative grooves and contrasting black ironmongery. FSC certified Heritage Oak from Vicaima's Essential range presents figurative knots and distinctive woodgrain configurations that reflect all the muchloved characteristics and charm of natural wood veneers.

Taking full advantage of Vicaimaís design flexibility, door faces were further enhanced by the inclusion of 4 horizontal ëVí shaped grooves in a tasteful light brown stain and contrasted by the specification of black ironmongery to complete the ensemble. Easi-Fit doorkits and the Heritage Oak finish are just two examples of fresh and imaginative design and performance options offered by Vicaima. For more inspiration, visit www.vicaima.com

VICAIMA ADDS TO SPECTACULAR VIEWS AT PREMIER CORNISH RESORT

CRITTALL IN THE SWIM WITH ENGLAND’S FINEST

An openair swimming pool of a design described as the finest in England is being restored to its former elegance with Crittall windows playing a significant role. Saltdean Lido, some five miles east of Brighton, is a Grade II* listed Art Deco masterpiece built in 1938 utilising an innovative reinforced concrete structure designed by architect Richard Jones.

It is one of only three Grade II* listed lidos in the country and has been on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk register for many years. After the war, during which it was used for Fire Service training, it lay derelict until restored by Brighton Borough Council and stayed in use until the late 1990s when local people banded together to defeat a developer’s plan to demolish the lido and build apartments on the site.

A Community Interest Company campaigned successfully to have the pool brought back into use which was achieved in 2017. Now it was the turn of the buildings currently being restored by Buxton Building Contractors of Surrey. Once completed the building will house an Art Deco

event space, suitable for weddings, an exercise studio, library, community hub, café and heritage learning zone plus workspace.

A key element of the design is the generous area of glazing facing the pool. Here will be installed Crittall Homelight Plus steel windows that replicate the original fenestration and, because of the slender frames, maximise the benefits of natural light on this bright coastal location.

The windows are also hot dipped galvanised to prevent corrosion and Duralife coated with marine grade polyester powder which will offer the highest level of protection against the aggressive wind-borne sea salts that caused damage to the original building. Once completed, thanks to the streamlined white concrete surfaces and the sparkling Crittall windows, the building will once more provide, quite literally, a shining example of its genre. www.crittall-windows.co.uk

ALUPROF'S PURSUIT OF SCOTTISH PROJECTS

By Wojciech Brozyna, Managing Director Aluprof UK Limited

Seen by some, Passivhaus construction offers the ‘gold standard’ when it comes to building high insulation homes for our low-carbon future. Earlier in the year Scotland took a bold first step to develop and legislate their own Passivhaus standard for all new homes built from December 2024, but the Passivhaus standard is already being widely specified across Scotland for commercial projects.

What the new standard will be in Scotland has not been revealed yet, all we know is that is will be Scotland’s own take on the highly respected Passivhaus standard, but, no doubt it will follow the core values of Passivhaus. A staggering 35% of our total global energy consumption is used in buildings, so cutting this energy will help reduce our carbon emissions.

A Passivhaus certified building is optimised for a decarbonised energy grid, something the UK is working towards. Passivhaus also offers living and working spaces designed for the best health and wellbeing. This high level of occupant comfort that comes with Passivhaus uses very little energy for heating and cooling.

Insulation plays a major role but this is only one of the five principles of Passivhaus design. Whilst ‘Passivhaus’ is commonly considered as a German innovation, in fact, it was an American physicist, William Shurcliff who in 1982 published a book “The Saunders-Shrewsbury House,” in which he describes the concepts of “super-insulation” and passive solar as “passive house.”

In the late 1980s a passive house movement had emerged in North America, but, shortly after America lost its appetite for energy conservation, Germany picked up the reins. A German physicist Wolfgang Feist refined the passive house concept to further improve efficiency and proposed a passive house concept with an annual energy demand of just fifteen kilowatt-hours per square metre of floor area. Window insulation and airtightness is a major requirement in Passivhaus design needing a minimum of requirement of triple glazing for doors, windows and curtain wall.

Aluminium, you may be surprised to know, can perform exceptionally well at high insulation levels using wide thermal breaks, inserted insulation and wide window seals. Some aluminium window systems can get down to a Uw of 0.55 W/(m2K) and door systems down to a Uw of 0.65 W/(m2K).

Whilst these high performance systems come at a premium, the principles of design are now well known and aluminium plus polyamide thermal breaks are relatively quick to design and cost effective to produce, unlike window systems in some alternative materials.

With today’s advanced powder coatings, aluminium fenestration products can easily outperform other materials when it comes to life expectancy and low-maintenance.

Passivhaus principles and low-carbon construction take a ‘fabric first’ approach, basically there is no point in using alternative heating systems, such as heat pumps in old dwellings, until the whole building fabric is re-designed to offer minimal heat losses. There are five principles that need to be introduced into the building before minimal heat sources can be considered. We must also remember that at certain times of the year, even in the UK, we also need to ensure we can keep the heat out in the extremes of weather.

• Air tightness to reduce draughts through building structure interfaces and fenestration helps isolate the living/working space from the exterior.

• Good quality and effective insulation of walls, ceilings and floors, to ensure that the interior space remains isolated in extremes of temperature.

• Often between building interfaces, walls and windows for example, thermal ‘cold bridging’ can occur where insulation areas are interrupted, these areas need very careful design. Designs of window reveals are particularly relevant here, including the window cill and head to ensure that the window frames high thermal perimeter performance is not reduced by poor reveal design.

• The window and facade systems themselves need to be of high thermal performance and airtight. These systems are carefully located within the building to take advantage of solar gain but not to extremes.

• Once we have the building airtight and thermally efficient, air changes are crucial and these can be achieved by using MVHR (Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery) which provides fresh filtered air into a building whilst retaining most of the heating energy that has already been used in the building. These systems can currently achieve an 85% efficiency.

These five principles are the cornerstones of all Passivhaus construction for new build accommodation, offices and public buildings. Importantly for the UK’s extensive old building stock, the principles can also be applied to the refurbishment of any existing building. Depending on the building construction, a new build to current building regulations will increase in cost by approximately 10% when constructed to Passivhaus standard.

This increase in cost will be recouped over a few years and will then continue to offer significant energy savings. This is ‘responsible’ construction at its best, designed to meet the demand for our low-carbon future. In addition, compared to other materials used in fenestration product production, aluminium stands out as the most environmentally friendly option, being both highly recyclable and carbon neutral. Not only is it right for our planet, in the long term energy savings are significant for developers and clients.

Aluprof, one of the leading aluminium systems suppliers in the UK, have been supplying Passivhaus certified windows, doors and facades to Passivhaus projects for a number of years and have gained a wealth of experience in facade design, the design of thermal interfaces and importantly, logistics. Project managers are available to explain the benefits of specifying Aluprof Passivhaus certified systems and can assist in the design of thermally efficient interfaces with the building fabric. Installation in the UK and Ireland is undertaken by national facade companies who are fully trained in Aluprof systems.

Further information on the Passivhaus systems available and their specification is available through the company’s website at aluprof.co.uk, directly from their UK head office in Altrincham or from their London office at the Building Design Centre by phoning +44 (0) 161 941 4005.

WHY WELLDESIGNED OUTDOOR SPACE IS KEY TO ‘HIGHLY AMENITISED’ OFFICES

Back in 2018, leading commercial property agents Savills reported how there was a growing demand for what they call ‘highly amenitised’ offices. This is the concept designing office developments and redeveloping existing offices in a way that provides more facilities for building users beyond simply a desk, toilets and a meeting room. Some developers refer to this approach as ‘placemaking’, but in short a key part of creating highly amenitised offices is maximising the use of outdoor spaces.

Savills point out that offices with ‘easy access to outdoor space have always attracted a premium, with floors boasting their own terraces achieving higher rents than those without’. But it is not just about private terraces in city centre office developments, which are popular for client entertaining. Offices increasingly need to consider how occupiers want proximity to outdoor space to meet their wellbeing initiatives too – hence why roof gardens and greater consideration to street level public realm are higher on the agenda in office design than ever before.

The pandemic catapulted ‘outdoor space’ up the design priority list. Many people re-evaluated their relationship with the great outdoors particularly given the health and wellbeing benefits they felt when spending time outside. And post-pandemic, in many cases businesses are responding to this renewed appetite by ensuring their outdoor space is attractive and fully utilised for activities as diverse as outdoor meetings, yoga classes or cinema screenings. With careful design about how building users could use the space, these outdoor spaces can become valuable as areas that allow for mental breaks or recharging. This is important given how many office workers have grown to prefer working from home (WFH) from a productivity point of view.

Hence why, as international property agents Cushman and Wakefield put it: “The primary purpose of the office moving forward will be to support collaboration, reinforce culture, train and develop team members, and drive social interaction. The office—its workspaces, amenities and services—will need to be redesigned to support these efforts more directly. Many of the pre-COVID-19 trends in amenities and services will continue, accelerate or shift when workers return to the office.” So how do outdoor spaces in office developments need to be designed? Attractive landscaping, seating, shelter and lighting are obvious considerations, but so too is a power infrastructure that can be used on-demand.

By equipping outdoor spaces with safe, secure power units, the potential for events and other facilities is unlocked. The outdoor power units we are talking about here are available in three different formats from Pop Up Power Supplies®. These are a retractable, pop-up unit that raises from the ground when needed, an in-ground unit accessed via a flip-lid, and a power bollard. By installing these power distribution units, you can provide easy access to electricity as and when it is required. For example, you may want to set up a coffee stall or an ice-cream kiosk in summer to make the outdoor space more appealing to building users, or host entertainment by setting up a stage, fully equipped with lighting, amplifiers, etc. for social events.

Even if you don’t yet know exactly how an outdoor space could be used by office occupiers, given the strong demand for highly amenitised offices as part of a modern office culture it makes good commercial sense to ensure on-demand power supplies are provided wherever possible and appropriate. To find out more about the outdoor power distribution units available from Pop Up Power Supplies visit www.popuppower.co.uk

SEALING FUTURE ENERGY EFFICIENT HOMES

Andy Swift, sales and operations manager for ISO-Chemie, says building regulations requiring windows to be ever more airtight will drive an uplift in energy efficient homes. Changes to Part L of the Building Regulations are the driving force behind stricter standards and compliance procedures around energy and ventilation performance, contributing towards a roadmap to a net zero carbon future and the new homes designed and built now being built having to fall in-line with stricter carbon emissions targets.

Specifically, to ensure continuity of the air barrier, window and door units will have to connect to the primary air barrier and the frames will need to be taped to surrounding structural openings using air-sealing tape. This comes against the backdrop where evidence points to doors and windows as the main source of the nation’s chronic energy inefficient homes.

Indeed, it could be said that in the light of product innovation over the years, its perhaps ‘criminal’ that the hundreds of thousands of new or retrofit installations completed each year go unchecked or unregulated, producing a legacy of problems for years to come and costing millions of pounds to rectify. This is a pity because with advancements in cost effective, easy-to-use technologies, there's never a justifiable reason for delaying or avoiding the specification of better energy efficient window and door sealing solutions.

Air tightness improvements - In this respect, the changes to Part L will have to be seen as a step in the right direction for the new build fenestration sector. It will see requirements for improvements in air tightness, forcing them from 10 air changes per hour down to five air changes per hour and also U value on windows shifting from 1.6 to 1.2wm2 k/H, which will require more energy efficient sealant solutions such as thermal foam tapes.

The requirement also now states that the frame should be linked back to the wall with an airtight tape. Heat will always find the fastest exit as it comes up against the ‘A’ or ‘A+’ rated window, and invariably this emanates from the 10mm or so expansion gap left around the window following fitment.

This is normally left empty, but some amount of spray foam can be injected to fill the void before a silicone trim is applied for a smart looking finish. Unfortunately, as expedient as this might seem, none of these solutions create a measurable, long term, high performance thermal, acoustic or airtight barrier - the U-Value of the installed window is simply reduced, which leads to heat escape and, ultimately, financial loss.

That’s why the house building industry and wider construction sector deserves better insulating solutions to improve energy efficiencies, particular in the face of a chronic national housing shortage and the need to build more affordable housing. In modular construction, which continues to gain traction - industry sources estimate that out of the 200,000 homes currently constructed annually, about 15,000 of them are modular - and sees continued integration with more traditional methods of building, house designers and specifiers are looking at new ways to deliver low carbon structures, which use sustainable technologies to deliver measurable airtight, acoustic and thermal sealing benefits.

And this is where self-adhesive foam sealing tapes can add real value, enabling developers to bring forward housing projects more expediently. They can use ‘smart’ foams impregnated with different substances to create a measurable U-Value as low as 0.6w/m2k, offer superb thermal insulation and can contribute to acoustic sound reduction by 63dB.

As these installation tapes are completely weather tight against driving rain up to hurricane force wind speeds, installers can quickly apply them around the frame during initial fitting. This provides the assurance that they have completed a comprehensive ‘A’ rated installation rather than just supplying an ‘A’ rated window. This is a benefit that can be sold on to deliver enhanced energy efficiency advantages for customers and property owners.

Future Homes Standard - Undoubtedly, building regulation changes are moving the fenestration industry closer to the requirements of the Future Homes Standard for dwellings. This standard, which come into force in 2025, are designed to deliver buildings which are zero-carbon ready and achieve world-leading levels of energy efficiency. The uplift in Part L of the regulations includes a requirement for new homes to produce around 31% less CO2 than current standards and a 27% reduction of emissions from other new buildings, including offices and shops.

By 2025, when all aspects of the Future Homes and Buildings Standards come into force, the Building Regulations will inevitably become even more strict, requiring new homes to produce almost three-quarters less CO2 when compared to current standards. So, changes will have an unequivocal impact on energy standards for residential and nondomestic buildings that are far better for the environment and fit for the future - higher air and thermal standards for house construction has to be a priority.

As sustainability continues to be of paramount concern in the development of low carbon and eco-friendly building projects, we will see technologies such as energy foam tapes, which can add real value during the initial and post construction phases, only grow in importance as the most effective solutions for sealing window and door frame expansion joints and gaps in houses in pursuit of attaining the Future Homes Standard. It’s simply a matter of designing in these products. More at https:// www.iso-chemie.eu/en-GB/home

RISING TO THE CHALLENGE

When identifying powered pedestrian door (PPD) solutions for commercial buildings, there are a variety of challenges that architects and specifiers need to consider. Darren Hyde, Technical and Training Manager, for the Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA), outlines how to balance safety, security and accessibility requirements.

We all love a challenge and identifying the right door, for the right building, in the right place, will keep you on your toes. To begin with, the right solution needs to conform with various standards, acts and building regulations to ensure that it is fit for purpose – encompassing safety, security and accessibility, along with complementing the overarching design. A bigger picture view is essential to maintain this equilibrium - a view that considers the location and position of the building, its intended use and foot fall, how the volume of traffic may need to be channelled around the building and identification of key entrances and exits – externally and internally.

This includes accessibility requirements, safety and security, alongside an ever-increasing awareness of fire resistance and escape routes. An awareness of all of these standards, acts and/or regulations will also help build a clearer picture of what is required for your specification. This may seem like a lot to consider, but taking a common-sense approach can help you arrive at a decision – ruling out the impractical and including the essential.

Asking the 5 W’s and an H - who, what, where, when, how and why - is a good place to start, especially when balancing client wishes with practicalities. The location of the built environment will have a significant effect on the outcome. Is there likely to be an effect from wind loading onto elevation and the door? Is the building in a coastal location, or among other tall buildings where wind is channelled?

A door is similar to a sail: wind loading may detrimentally affect its operation if the ‘sail’ is too large or the wrong type. It could cause operation and/or safety issues, resulting in damage. The effectiveness of door operators, sensors and mechanical elements can be compromised by force or environmental conditions such as salt in the air. Building use and considering who it is for, is also a cornerstone when it is likely that vulnerable people are occupants or users.

Special measures may be required to enable accessibility and safety while maintaining security. This is particularly pertinent in buildings used for specialist or supported housing and education. Quite rightly, the role of an architect is to stretch the boundaries of aesthetics,

These must meet the new EN 17352:2022 standard which addresses safety in use and machinery safety requirements and test methods. The need to protect and secure our buildings is ever-increasing but specification of high security doors must be balanced with escape requirements.

The introduction of the Building Safety Act has highlighted these issues in respect of high-rise living, but as city landscapes change and taller buildings begin to dominate the commercial centres, we should look to how this can best be achieved in these environs.

A correctly specified system should take both needs into account, and if correctly specified, will achieve the desired outcome. The demand for smart buildings, with integrated building management systems and access control, will also determine choices. Again, these need to be factored in from the start. Most powered pedestrian door and window operators can be linked for wider estate management but selecting the right solution at the start can avoid expensive mistakes.

form and function, but this should never be at the expense of user safety. For example, safety sensors and signage can be viewed as an unsympathetic addition to an expensive door but they are essential for the safe operation of the door.

The look of activation devices has improved significantly over the last ten years, they are now slimmer and less obtrusive, discreetly enabling stateof-the art technology without negatively impacting the appearance of the installation. The same can be said of other entrance devices, powered turnstiles, swing lanes and retractable lanes, which are frequently found in larger or shared commercial buildings.

By working with an ADSA accredited member, architects can be assured that they will be supported in system design and specification. Although, the process may be challenging, when properly realised, it can ensure that the outcome is not only fit for purpose but can be incorporated with dynamic design that will enhance our communities.

Images courtesy of record UK. www.adsa.org.uk

BOLD DESIGN TAKES ON A DRAMATIC EFFECT WITH PALERMO

A sophisticated and stunning choice of worktop for any kitchen décor, marble- inspired surfaces continue to be on-trend, with Palermo, the latest launch in the CRL Quartz range from CRL Stone being no exception. Opulence and luxury in interior design is defined with Palermo. A crisp white background is the perfect setting for bold, veining that adds instant character and eye-catching detail to any setting. Inspired by nature, the quartz surface elevates any interior into a fresh, sophisticated space. Bookmatch options are also available, to create the glorious look of marble in large spaces. (cont...)

(cont...) This CRL Quartz surface features dramatic patterning, inspired by stones found in nature, designed with modern trends and modern lifestyles in mind. CRL Quartz is an ideal material for use in any setting, including kitchens and bathrooms. Highly resistant to knocks and impacts, it is heat, scratch and stain resistant, and no extra care or special products are needed to clean it.

Stains can be removed with water or mild cleaning products and, because it is a non-porous surface, the build-up of bacteria or mould is prevented, making it hygienic and easy to maintain. As such, CRL Quartz Palermo is the ideal way to offer consumers the durability and style they are looking for from a worktop. For more information call CRL Stone on 01706 863 600 or visit www.crlstone.co.uk

TURN A NEW LEAF

GEZE has launched Revo.PRIME a new premium solution for revolving doors. The new operator boasts an exceptionally low canopy height, narrow profile systems and an improved running performance. Providing maximum transparency the Revo.PRIME is perfect for creating beautiful entrances and is especially suited for hotels and offices or any building where a statement entrance is required. With its class leading canopy height of just 75mm which houses the automation it ensures the minimal aesthetic whilst achieving excellent technical functionality. In addition the narrow profiles of just 60mm on the door leaf and side panel create a visually appealing entrance and increased transparency creating a light and airy entrance.

The Revo.PRIME is environmentally friendly as well, the operator saves up to 30 per cent in energy compared with its predecessor models which is achieved through the drive unit’s reduced power consumption. Another benefit of the Revo. PRIME is its improved running performance. The brushless direct current motor (BLDC) with 1,000 Nm torque and the enlarged diameter of the door system, up to 3,800mm, ensures ease of access and meets the demands of today’s architects and designers.

Available in 3 or 4 leaf versions and in a choice of gold, silver and black the Revo.PRIME can be networked to building automation systems via BACnet. Andy Howland, Sales and Marketing Director of GEZE UK, said “The Revo.PRIME is an impressive edition to our range of automatic operators and one that is sure to delight architects and specifiers giving them the freedom to design stunning entrances.”

To find out more about the Revo.PRIME visit the dedicated Revo.PRIME microsite, see it in action on YouTube or email info.uk@geze.com. For more information about GEZE UK’s comprehensive range of automatic and manual door closers visit www.geze.co.uk

OUTSTANDING AESTHETICS, EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY AND DURABILITY FROM CUPA PIZARRAS NATURAL SLATES TO ELEVATE RESIDENTIAL REFURBISHMENT

CUPA R12 Excellence from CUPA PIZARRAS has been installed as part of an extensive family home refurbishment project in rural Norfolk. Working closely with the property owner, contractor Aspect Group Services specified the natural Spanish slate as it offers outstanding aesthetics, quality and a guaranteed warranty of 100 years.

Situated in the picturesque village of Old Buckenham, the extensive property consists of a number of separate buildings including a main house, a smaller newly built lodge, a pool house and garage, all of which the owners are refurbishing over several phases. The first phase was the new lodge, completed in 2021, followed by the main house and the swimming pool area.

As well as new slate roofs, work has included the addition of external insulation and off-white render for the main house as well as galvanised guttering and rainwater systems throughout. “The owners bought the property eight years ago and have been slowly refurbishing it,” explains Matt Dillon, Owner Director at Aspect Group Services.

“Aesthetics were important to the project, and as we’ve used CUPA PIZARRAS slate before, we were confident of the quality of the product and the overall service we would receive from the company.” After liaising with the CUPA PIZARRAS team and local merchant AJW Distribution, it was decided that CUPA R12 Excellence was the ideal replacement for the old concrete tiles on the roofs of the main house and pool house.

Aspect Group Services’ roofing division installed the slates on both properties using copper nails. In addition, they integrated low-profile solar panels into the roof of the pool house alongside the slates for a flat, linear finish. CUPA R12 is a high-quality, dark grey slate with thin laminations and a smooth surface. Being a high-quality natural slate product, it has a guaranteed lifespan of 100 years and requires minimal maintenance. The slate provides a smooth, uniform appearance which was important for this refurbishment.

In addition to its uniform appearance, CUPA 12 natural slate provides a sustainable solution, which was a significant factor for both the homeowner and Aspect Group Services. As CUPA PIZARRAS owns its quarries, the company can extract the material, process it locally, and return any excess slate to the mountain. At the same time, closed circuits enable the reuse of water.

Each step of the production process is continually assessed, and measures are introduced to tackle carbon emissions, such as using renewable energy sources, including photovoltaic solar energy, to power the plant and help reduce the company’s carbon footprint. Many of CUPA PIZARRAS’ slate products, including CUPA 12, have received BRE verification confirming that their environmental product declarations are in accordance with the requirements of EN 15804:2012+A1:2013 and BRE Global Scheme Document SD207.

www.cupapizarras.com/uk

BOUGHTON TAKES LONDON - THE NATURAL GROWING MEDIA EXPERTS ENJOY GROWTH WITHIN THE CAPITAL

North, east and west, some of London’s most iconic residential and commercial developments have benefited from using a combination of green roof substrates and natural, as-dug soils from one of the UK’s leading growing media suppliers, Boughton. Here we learn more about the latest project at Canary Wharf and look back at some of previous London highlights that have helped to put Boughton well and truly on the map.

The Pavilion at Landmark Pinnacle, Canary Wharf - Part of a much larger scale project which includes the UK’s highest tropical garden, the Pavilion at Landmark Pinnacle is the work of Gillespies, Valley Provincial and Farrer Huxley. The green roof which swoops over the ground level commercial space at the foot of the 75-storey skyscraper, will provide much needed green space for those that live and work in the locality.

Whilst residents of Landmarks Pinnacle will have access to two sky gardens, this pavilion has been created for the wider community as a place to promote

healthy, active and social living. Sloped to the ground level the space is accessible to all. Zoned planting, which creates zigzagged walkways to a raised theatre-style seating arrangement at its highest point, has been supported by Boughton lightweight green roof substrates, Intensive IN 1 and the lightweight subsoil. Boughton’s Intensive IN 1 was selected for its greater organic content and its ability to support larger plants and deeper planting depths.

Not only this but IN 1 is perfect for schemes that optimise a more detailed and formalised planting scheme as that seen at the Pavilion, which allows for year-round colour and texture, an approach that has become Gillespies trademark at this project and has since gained them finalist status at the 2022 Landscape Institute Awards: Excellence in Horticulture and Planting Design category. Joining the line-up was Boughton’s lightweight subsoil which created the perfect footprint for the application of Intensive IN 1.

Sheldon Square, Paddington - The Landmark Pinnacle project follows hot on the heels of the Sheldon Square project that also saw Boughton and Gillespies work together. Located at the heart of Paddington Central, Sheldon Square is best known for its amphitheatre, where a range of activities take place every day. In 2022 the area benefited from a makeover which saw improved facilities, better accessibility, a more dynamic performance space and a greener space added.

New trees, sun-loving plants and over 40 colourful perennials were added to not only create a vibrant display but were chosen for their ability to reduce pollution, improve air quality and to increase biodiversity and climate change resilience. Working with Gillespies, alongside main contractors, 8Build, and soft landscape contractor, Kingston Landscape Group, Boughton supplied over 80m3 of its ever-popular BLS 2 topsoil to site in bulk bags. Single-sourced, ‘as dug’ natural and screened, Boughton’s BLS 2 topsoil was specified for this project by Gillespies.

Battersea Power Station - Whilst not Boughton’s first large-scale project, Battersea Power Station certainly remains its most iconic. Situated on a 39-acre site, the Grade II* listed former Power Station was subject to an incredible £9billion redevelopment project – one of the biggest schemes of this type anywhere in Europe.

It was within the scheme’s ‘Garden of Elements’ project that saw Boughton step-up, providing its green roof substrates to support the planting within this series of three garden spaces. Positioned between the four chimneys that have become synonymous with the Battersea development, sits the ‘Garden of Elements’, which was designed by Andy Sturgeon and brought to life by six-times BALI Grand award-winners, Willerby Landscapes.

Each garden is inspired by fire, water or air, harking back to the Power Station’s previous life. It is within these gardens, including the notable main podium garden ‘Boiler House Square’ that saw Boughton’s IN1 Intensive and Lightweight Green Roof Substrates, and Rootzone come into their own. These garden spaces, full of cloud-like planting schemes are set within raised beds and tall grasses with vegetation designed to offer year-round interest with a mix of evergreens, Mediterranean and more exotic species.

Boughton’s IN1 substrate was selected to support this scheme thanks to its ability to support larger plants and to be installed at depths from 100 – 500cm, thanks to its sandy texture. Additionally, Boughton’s IN1 substrate offers significant moisture retention qualities, making it the perfect choice when so many plants are vying for attention within this three-hectare site.

Elsewhere Boughton’s Lightweight Substrate was used to provide growing media where weight loading for the green roof needed to be lighter than traditional green roof schemes. Finally, Rootzone completed the offering. Supplied as a ready-mixed solution, Rootzone provided better planting conditions throughout the scheme.

Talking during the construction of the horticulturally rich roof garden, Willerby Landscapes said: “Boughton were a pleasure to work with, being able to safely deliver the material to site despite the many logistical challenges that this prestigious, central London project posed. They supplied us with top quality substrates specifically approved by Tim O’Hare, as well as a service that’s hard to beat”.

To find out more about Boughton’s complete offering for the amenity, landscape and construction industries, please visit www.boughton.co.uk

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

Set in the heart of London’s iconic Docklands, Streamlight Tower is the impressive new residential development from the Swan Housing Group and PRP Architects. The development features over 4,600 panels of ventilated façades on Streamlight Tower itself and an additional 5,100 panels on its two adjoining sister towers nestled next to it from Cosentino’s ultracompact surface, Dekton®.

Undergoing large scale transformation in the 1980s and 90s, the Docklands were famously regenerated by the UK Government, converting derelict industrial space into a mixture of residential and commercial properties. The area today boasts a premium mix of thriving enterprise, luxury living quarters and vibrant community spirit.

With exquisite views across the river and a stone’s throw from the iconic 02 Arena and Canary Wharf and the Olympic Village, Streamlight Tower is one of East London’s most substantial and sought after residential developments of the last few years. Spanning over 9,000 sqm, standing over 269 ft high and with 24 floors of luxury apartments, it cuts a striking silhouette against the London skyline.

Streamlight Tower’s skin is made up entirely by Dekton Eter Alberta and Dekton Sasea Alberta, bespoke cutto-size ID XGloss panels in 12mm thickness. Utilising Cosentino’s bespoke ID service to create an exclusive façade colour, Dekton ID XGloss helps the building to blend in seamlessly with its surroundings.

Sleek, minimalistic and urbanindustrial in style, XGloss’s beautifully dark hues and modern mirror finish elevate the tower’s aesthetic. These large format tiles are beautifully complemented by the smaller format Dekton XGloss Sasea tiles adorning the outside of its adjoining sister towers.

With innovative manufacturing processes that ensure tonal uniformity, visual continuity and a guarantee against colour deterioration, all three blocks in the Streamlight Tower development are as visually impressive as they are functionally superior.

An undercut anchor system was used to fix the panels on the secondary support structure. The panels were pre-assembled with the anchors and hangers in a designated site area and then taken to the allocated area for installation. Feature projected frames were installed using mitred and chamfered corners

on the front and rear elevations of the building providing an appealing visual appearance. The paradigm shift led by contemporary architecture has placed greater emphasis on the importance of the façade.

Recognition of structural stability, energy efficiencies and safety properties that facades bring, especially ventilated façades, it is unsurprising they were the chosen material for Streamlight’s entire exterior. A2 Fire Rated*, Dekton façades provide maximum resistance to high temperatures.

Dekton is non-combustible and features Protek, a fire-resistant reinforcing mesh, which means its surfaces have thermal conductivity properties that are three times lower than ceramic, natural stone or other cladding alternatives; thereby making them one of the safest choices for high-rise developments.

Unlike anything on the market, Dekton is an ultracompact surface created through a cuttingedge proprietary sinterisation, compaction, and drying process. This means it offers superior mechanical resistance, dimensional stability (even in thin thicknesses) and importantly, resistance to extreme conditions. Panels are heat, UV, freeze and thaw resistant, with low water absorption to give unmatched durability. In keeping with Cosentino’s wider commitment to sustainability, Dekton is a cradle to grave carbon neutral product, giving the whole Streamlight Tower development notably greener credentials.

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

experimental evaluation of the Dekton surface for use as external wall cladding for façades: wind load resistance, impact resistance and reaction to fire, durability, and the characterisation of the fixing components necessary for the surface to be conveniently incorporated onto façades.

External cladding for ventilated façades with the CE marking offer performance that has been assessed by a third party and performance characteristics that have been confirmed and contrasted according to European methodologies. www.cosentino.com/en-gb/

SANTIAGO BERNABEU STADIUM RENOVATION SUPPORTED BY LINDAPTER

In 2019 Real Madrid Football Club unveiled plans for a €525 million renovation project of its iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. The huge renovation project would include increasing the capacity by 4,000 with an extra tier being added, increasing the height of the stadium by 10 metres, adding a retractable roof, major exterior developments and installation of a 360° video board and lighting that would encircle the entire roof area. The vision was to transform the Bernabéu into a modern, avant-garde stadium, with maximum comfort, safety and state-of-the-art technology.

One of the distinctive features of the stadium was the new lighting that needed to be safely and securely attached to the roof. The design involved connecting the lighting to the steel columns of the original stadium structure via structural hollow sections (SHS).

The contractor wanted to avoid onsite welding or drilling at height for many reasons including time, cost and safety therefore an alternative connection method was required. Lindapter’s technical support team were approached by FHECOR, the consulting engineer for the project, and asked to submit a steelwork clamping design solution.

After receiving details of the existing structural columns, the SHS framework and lighting equipment, Lindapter’s technical support team were able to propose a solution. This involved welding pre-drilled steel plates to the sides of the SHS framework offsite at the fabricators and connecting these to the structural steel columns onsite with clamps. The connection design included Lindapter Type AAF adjustable high slip resistance girder clamps with M16 diameter, grade 10.9 bolts in a standard 4-bolt configuration.

Quicker, safer and easier - The ready-to-install reinforcement element consists of double-headed studs with spacing bars to ensure correct positioning. Spacers allow installation on the formwork and as a result, installation on the construction site and in the precast plant is therefore quicker, safer and easier to achieve.

The contractor used 1,800 Type AAF Girder Clamps to connect the SHS framework and lighting equipment to the structural columns via the “end” plates. Installation was quick and easy as the connection assemblies could be positioned close to where they were needed before final adjustments were made and the clamps fully tightened using a calibrated torque wrench.

Type AAF Girder Clamps provided an excellent solution that avoided the need for welding or drilling onsite. This offered many benefits to the contractor including a safer working environment, as no heavy tools or equipment were required, especially important as the installation was carried out at significant height. Other benefits were the time saved by clamping which resulted in lower labour costs. www.lindapter.com

ICONIC STONEHAVEN LIDO GETS MAPEI WATERPROOFING TREATMENT

A Mapei Polyurea waterproofing system has been used to restore the historic Stonehaven Open Air Pool in Aberdeenshire. Applied by Anderson Specialist Contracting, the project forms part of renovation works carried out by Aberdeenshire Council. A polyurea waterproofing membrane with excellent chemical resistance, exceptional flexibility and tear strength, Mapei Purtop 1000 N is designed to waterproof structures above and below ground, including roofs, podiums, pools and storage tanks.

Mapei was pleased to support Fairhurst Engineers as they explored specification options to establish the right product fit for such a prestigious project. Opened in 1934, Stonehaven Open Air Pool is the UK's only

art deco Olympic-sized heated sea water lido. During the Second World War, it provided recreation for locally-based troops and, afterwards, it once again proved a major visitor attraction.

Threat of closure in the 1990’s prompted the founding of a community group - The Friends of Stonehaven Open Air Pool – which is now a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO) that works in close partnership with Aberdeenshire Council.

Alongside Council funding to carry out extensive improvements, 2,000 hours of volunteer work were carried out post-pandemic to repaint and improve the Listed attraction, with £50,000 raised by The Friends to fund a new slide.

Although regularly maintained and repaired, the lido’s multi-layered concrete and paint surface was in need of renovation. With its extensive expertise in pool waterproofing, Mapei was first approached in 2015 and recommended its Mapelastic Smart system overlaid with a finish. Last summer, Mapei was asked for further advice, as the client was now seeking a seamless solution.

With an in depth understanding of previous works carried out - and after discussions with the engineers, and careful consideration of the pool’s age, exposed location and position - Mapei recommended specification of Purtop 1000 N - a two-component pure polyurea membrane which forms a completely waterproof coating, with high chemical resistance, exceptional flexibility and tear strength.

Mapei’s proposal covered all aspects of the pool refurbishment, from repairs of the defective concrete using products from the Mapei concrete repair range, through to the Purtop 1000 N system build-up required for the lido. Throughout the project, Mapei worked closely with Anderson Specialist Contracting and the

client, making regular site visits. During the renovation, a tent was erected over the pool to allow works to continue unhindered: Existing coats of paint were removed, and the concrete substrate was inspected and tested, with the proposal amended to take into account the test results.

Defects were repaired and cracks were filled and injected with water-stopping resin. All joints and cracks were then bandaged with Mapeband Flex Roll tape. The substrate was then primed with Mapecoat I 600 W epoxy-resin based sealer and two layers of Triblock P epoxy-cement which created a damp proof membrane to hold back any moisture within the concrete.

Following a further coat of epoxy primer, Primer SN, the surface was cast with aggregate. Purtop 1000 N was then spray applied across the 1200m2 pool surface, followed by two coats of Mapecoat PU 20 N coloured aliphatic polyurethane topcoat and pool lines were painted. www.mapei.co.uk

TRITON SYSTEMS SHIELDS SHOWROOM BASEMENT CONVERSION

The renovation and conversion of a former workshop and car storage facility, into a stylish basement space as part of a high-spec residential property, is making extensive use of fully compatible products from the range of Triton Systems. The work to remodel the one-time purpose-built motor garage and independent car dealership at Lytham St. Annes in Lancashire is being led by Elite Basements Ltd., whose highly experienced team of ground-workers, joiners and other tradespeople are reconfiguring the upper floors as well as transforming half the old undercroft into habitable space.

In doing so the Preston-based specialist is employing Triton’s anti-lime coating to treat the newly laid basement slab, followed by a layer of the manufacturer’s TM20 profiled membrane to remove water to the floor perimeter, where it is conducted to a sump using Aqua Channel. This PVC-U profile also takes run-off from the Triton Platon P8 lining the basement walls, with a pair of Triton’s 240 volt Aqua Pump Pro Plus units and 24v battery back-up, ready to remove the water to mains drainage. In addition to installing insulated dry-lining throughout the basement, Elite’s operatives have carried out structural repairs and applied red oxide paint with an airless sprayer to all of the original steel columns and beams after they were shotblasted by others. These beams and posts support the ground floor slab/block and beam floor above. www.tritonsystems.co.uk

WRAPTITE® WORKS WITH COMFORT FRAME IWI TO ACHIEVE ENERGY EFFICIENCY

The Wraptite® external air barrier system from A. Proctor Group has been installed in combination with the innovative and unique Comfort Frame Internal Wall Insulation system to deliver impressive energy efficiency savings to a housing retrofit project. Comfort Frame’s IWI system is the only Fabric First solution that is isolated from the existing wall, which eliminates the risk of thermal bridging and condensation. Designed to improve the performance of solid walled properties, this transition to a lower carbon-built environment delivers 50% savings on tenant energy bills.

Wraptite is the only self-adhering vapour-permeable air barrier certified by the BBA and combines the critical properties of vapour permeability and airtightness in one self-adhering membrane. This approach saves on both the labour and material costs associated with achieving the energy efficiency demands in buildings. Also specified alongside Wraptite was Spacetherm® from the A. Proctor Group. The Spacetherm insulation range comprises high-performance aerogel insulation that can be bonded to various boards to suit specific applications. On its own, Spacetherm Blanket is a versatile material that is both vapour-permeable and hydrophobic, making it ideal for solid wall insulation. Visit www.comfortframe.co.uk to find out more.

PORT SAID LIGHTHOUSE DANCES WITH SLICEDSTONE

Slicedstone, from bathroom specialist Marmox, has been used extensively to clad a new lighthouse in Port Said, replacing the deactivated original, which stood sentinel over the city at the northern end of the Suez Canal since its opening in 1869. The old lighthouse – now a historical monument - is unusual and considered architecturally important as it was the first in the world to be constructed from reinforced concrete, which architect Karim Gabr took into consideration when designing the visually stunning replacement.

Explaining the concepts to ‘The Dancing Lighthouse,’ Karim stated: “The twisted grey shell was designed as an octagonal construction that lessens as we go up, simulating the old lighthouse. Then, I deconstructed the form inspired by the motions of the sea’s waves and the folklore dance, Elsemsemya, which Port Said is famous for. The material of this shell is a natural grey stone that expresses the idea of the original concrete lighthouse.” The space surrounding the lighthouse comprises of three-level ‘cylinders’ covered with yellow stone representing the yellow sand of the city's coastline. The open space is interspersed by three water fountains representing the three water

sources surrounding the city: the Mediterranean Sea, the Suez Canal and Lake Manzala. Slicedstone was specified by Karim Gabr’s practice to enhance the lighthouse and its environs, being that it is a natural material produced from large stone slabs, with each veneer being unique in appearance.

The lightweight sheets are backed with a 100 % waterproof decoupling membrane, allowing them to be secured using cement based tile adhesive. www.marmox.co.uk

SOPREMA TUNES IN TO HOULTON SCHOOL'S NEEDS

Soprema has helped to restore a Grade II Listed former radio station building in Rugby and transform it into a sustainable, distinctive and state-of-the-art secondary school. Houlton School, located within the former Rugby Radio Station, has emerged as a critical component in the establishment of a thriving new community. It is part of the Houlton development, which will see developer Urban & Civic (U&C) deliver 6,200 homes alongside neighbourhood and community facilities.

Copyright: vHH

The Grade II-listed transmitter building, formerly known as C Station, sits at the heart of a developing mini-town, named Houlton to commemorate the first transatlantic call made from the radio station, which was to a receiver site in Houlton, Maine, in 1927. With a vision to address the shortage of secondary school places and revitalise the listed building at the heart of Houlton, U&C undertook the monumental task of restoring the former radio station building, which dates back to 1925, and create a state-of-the-art secondary school on its site.

The new educational campus at Houlton School includes a main teaching block with a grand entrance and dining hall within the listed former power hall, capable of accommodating more than 1,000 students. In addition, two separate blocks were constructed for STEM and Humanities subjects, along with a Sport England compliant sports hall with dance, acting and fitness studios. It also features a new communications centre, fully resourced with a library and professional radio and television broadcasting station in homage to the legacy of the site.

Copyright: James Brittain and vHH

The initial plan was to demolish the historic Rugby Radio Station to make way for the residential development. However, recognising the need for a secondary school in the area, developer U&C approached the Department for Education (DfE) to secure funding and repurpose the radio station as a school. This bold proposal required overcoming several challenges, including the preservation of the listed building, industrial space constraints, contamination issues and insulation challenges.

U&C and the design team, led by architects van Heyningen and Haward (vHH), worked closely with Morgan Sindall Construction, appointed under an PCSA from RIBA stage 2, and their specialist supply chain to address the project's complexity. By involving the supply

Copyright: vHH

This characteristic makes PAVADRY the ideal insulation board to prevent the trapping of moisture within the historic fabric and was crucially important for the project to protect the original features of the building, and future-proof the structure for years to come.

Despite facing the challenges posed by the global pandemic, the Houlton School project was delivered on time, within the £39m budget, and achieved a perfect 10/10 client satisfaction rating. Houlton School is an inspiring example of an elegant and creative retrofit, proving that almost any kind of repurposing is possible with a historic structure.

Copyright: U+C and vHH

chain, which included Soprema, during the design phase, all parties were able to mitigate risks and engage in value engineering exercises.

The design of Houlton School prioritised a fabric-first approach, focusing on the building envelope's quality and energy efficiency. The integration of Passivhaus software and thermal modelling enabled optimised insulation and improved performance. vHH specified Soprema’s PAVADRY insulation solution - a natural and ecological, innovative thermal insulation board based on wood fibre, bonded with hardboard and a lime-plaster parge coat. The integrated air barrier provided by the moisture-open parge coat, together with the hygroscopic properties of the wood fibre and careful repair of the historic brickwork, ensured a controlled moisture transport which prevents the formation of damaging moisture.

The insulation specification and installation, backed by Soprema’s team of technical experts and guided by hands-on expertise from design stage onwards, exemplifies a successful synergy between historic preservation and modern development.

In the construction phase of the project, architects vHH were novated to Morgan Sindall Construction, de-risking the inevitable discoveries in the fabric of the old building by using the strong working relationships established with the supply chain and suppliers. Working closely with DCL, the drylining and plastering subcontractor, individual solutions were examined and finalised to accommodate tricky details within the building, especially around the historic steel frame members that are half enclosed within the masonry.

Through effective collaboration, careful planning, and meticulous attention to detail, Morgan Sindall Construction and its partners and suppliers, including vHH, DCL and Soprema, have delivered an inspirational, aesthetically beautiful, sensitively restored modern facility that caters to the educational needs of a burgeoning community. www.soprema.co.uk

DORSET REFURBISHMENT PROJECT ILLUSTRATES FLEXIBILITY OF STO EXTERNAL WALL INSULATION

A major refurbishment project in Dorset has seen a landmark building completely transformed with the use of a BBA-certified StoTherm Mineral external wall insulation system designed by Sto. Having previously provided office accommodation, the Crown Building in Poole now houses 57 new luxury apartments which benefit from outstanding thermal performance to help keep the residents more comfortable and to reduce their heating costs.

“Designing the most effective insulation solution for this building required a considerable amount of detailing and development work between ourselves and the other parties involved”, explains Sto Head of Sales, Ashley Wainwright. “The result is extremely impressive, both from a thermal and aesthetic point of view, and it’s a great example of how Sto is able to collaborate with architects and clients to provide a bespoke solution for individual project requirements.”

Project designers and managers, Elcock Associates undertook the task of overseeing the conversion of the existing 8-storey structure by Glossbrook Builders Ltd, who stripped back to the original concrete frame and then infilling the concrete structure with Lightweight Steel Framing and sheathing board. The StoTherm Mineral M insulation system was installed to the sheathing boards to create a drained and vented cavity. This system uses mineral fibre, non-combustible insulation boards to combine excellent thermal performance with unrivalled fire protection. Its efficient single-leaf construction makes it ideal for this type of refurbishment project as it allows the insulation to be added without reducing the existing room spaces inside the building. The dense nature of the system materials also provides a high degree of sound insulation to the Crown Building.

Sto-Rotofix Plus spiral fixings allow uneven and irregular substrates to be accommodated, enabling seamless rendered facades to be created with ease. These unique, helical spiral fixings mechanically fix the insulation boards to the LSF and can overcome the problems of variable cavity requirements. As the position of all the fixings can be viewed during installation, Sto-Rotofix makes it far easier to ensure that the right number of fixings have been used so that long-term integrity is assured.

The complex and detailed nature of the Crown Building insulation system design meant that some areas of the building had the insulation installed adhesively using StoLevell Uni. Once again this highlighted the versatile nature of the StoTherm Mineral system, which was installed by Wall Solutions of Southampton. StoSilco stippled render was applied as the finishing coat for the insulation system.

This silicone, resin render provides high levels of water repellence, making it an ideal facade finish for buildings in coastal regions such as the Crown Building. It offers protection against weathering and damp, thanks to its excellent CO 2 and water-vapour permeability which increases the rate of moisture transfer and allows the walls to breathe. A new 3-storey residential building was also added to the Crown Building development, and this also benefitted from the use of the StoTherm Mineral thermal insulation system. www.sto.co.uk

FIREFLY ™ APOLLO LITE SPECIFIED FOR ROYAL STOKE REFURBISHMENT

A leading passive fire protection contractor has been involved in the installation of fully compatible products from the range of TBA FIREFLY ™ for the creation of half hour fire barriers within ceiling voids to a major general hospital undergoing extensive refurbishment work in the north of England. Birmingham based Cubic FM is the specialist sub-contractor carrying out all of the passive fire protection work at the Royal Stoke University Hospital in the city’s Newcastle Road. The work is making use of FIREFLY’s well proven APOLLO Lite ™ 30:30 barrier system across areas featuring cable trays, water pipes and other building services.

APOLLO Lite ™ 30:30 has been developed for use in vertical separation or compartmentation situations, offering 30 minutes integrity and 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, including tower blocks and other HMOs. The flexible woven material is easy to cut and fix and is treated with a proprietary coating 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

CEMGOLD FEATURES IN RAINSCREEN SPECIFICATION FOR NEW MEDICAL SCHOOL PROJECT

A specialist rendering, plastering and drylining contractor has made use of IPP Ltd.’s Cemgold cement particleboard as part of the rainscreen build-up covering a four storey medical teaching facility in Ipswich, following rigorous evaluation in conjunction with the main contractor and system supplier K-Rend. The extension to the site in the heart of Ipswich is being built by T.J. Evers, with O’Hara Drylining East being responsible for installing all of the sheathing boards across the Metsec framing on all four floors.

Then in order to ensure a well-insulated as well as fire and weather resistant performance for the façade the Cemgold boards are being covered with Rockwool and the proprietary silicon render system. Cemgold is a 100 % asbestos free board produced using Portland cement and high purity silica sand, reinforced with selected fibres, employing advanced pressing and autoclaving technology. The resulting boards offer high impact strength as well as excellent racking and pull-out strength, making them ideal for a range of applications including façade build-ups and offsite construction. Crucially for multi-storey buildings the boards are rated A1 non-combustible under EN13501 and Class 0 when tested to BS EN 476 Parts 6&7, while they also offer very good acoustic performance. www.magply.co.uk

ITP SUPPLIES AWARD-WINNING BREATHER MEMBRANE FOR PRESTIGIOUS COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT

Building envelope specialists, ITP Ltd, supplied the award-winning Stamisol Safe One breather membrane for Myo New Street Square, the latest addition to one of Central London’s most prestigious commercial developments. The first phase of the New Street Square project was developed by Landsec in 2008, transforming the area into a vibrant campus with four office buildings clustered around new public realm and retail amenities.

The development was the result of a close collaboration with the City of London, The Goldsmiths, local residents and council representatives which enabled Landsec to complete the second phase in 2016 with the construction of 1 New Street Square. Landsec’s continued investment in New Street Square will be a conversion of the 3 New Street Square building into six floors of flexible, fitted office space, meeting rooms and event spaces – all under the Myo brand. This will ensure that the estate retains a contemporary feel and attracts a high-profile occupier base. Myo customers will enjoy stunning 360-degree panoramic views across London and to St Paul’s Cathedral. Stamisol Safe One has been specified to protect the long-term condition of the external wall system and prevent the build-up of condensation in the insulation layer.

Its innovative design has been at the forefront of membrane development, representing the first breather membrane in the UK to combine a Euroclass A2 fire safety rating with W1 water tightness. As well as being the UK suppliers of Stamisol Safe One, ITP also manufactures its own range of advanced vapour control layers, roofing underlays, house wraps and ground barrier membranes. www.itpltd.com

TAYLOR LANE TIMBER FRAME FINDS MULTIPLE APPLICATIONS FOR STERLINGOSB ZERO

One of the UK’s biggest manufacturers of timber frame homes, with factories in England and Wales, is making full use of the performance and economic benefits to West Fraser’s SterlingOSB Zero boards, in different thicknesses for a range of applications. Taylor Lane Timber Frame was established in 1982 and has four factories across three locations in Hereford and in Nantyglo, near Brynmawr in Gwent, producing in excess of 1000 dwellings a year for housebuilders, developers and social housing providers.

The company has established a strong reputation for quality and reliability over the past 40 years and with fresh investment from new owner, the Cala Group, is anticipating further growth as it addresses such challenges as affordability and the environmental agenda. In fact, West Fraser values its long-standing partnership with the Cala Group, as Daniel Clarke, Senior Key Account Manager at West Fraser explained, “As well as SterlingOSB Zero we also supply the Cala Group with CaberDek throughout their builds in England and Scotland.

The specification of West Fraser products throughout the divisions of the Cala Group demonstrates the importance of the partnership to both organisations”. In addition to wall panels, Taylor Lane also produces its own roof trusses and floor cassettes, the latter featuring metal web Posi-Joists fabricated at its Gatehouse Factory in Hereford. The SterlingOSB Zero is primarily used to take the racking loads sustained by both internal and external walls, while the material is also used for roof sarking and as the sub-deck to floor joists within multiple dwelling types.

https://uk.westfraser.com

Image courtesy Myo/Landsec

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

CUPA HEAVY 3 SLATE PROVIDES THE KEY TO SCOTTISH BOTHY’S GRAND RENOVATION

Heavy 3 slate has been specified as part of a unique self-build residential home in the Scottish countryside. Showcased on the latest series of Channel 4’s Grand Designs, Heavy 3 was selected to renovate the roof of a Grade II listed bothy that had to be incorporated into the property’s overall design. The slate was the ideal solution to replicate the aesthetic of the original Scottish slate. Architect Iain Shillady, Director at Staran Architects, decided to carry out an ambitious conversion of the bothy – a form of basic accommodation for gardeners working on country estates – and walled garden, turning it into his ideal family home.

However, planning permission dictated that the architectural heritage of the property must be maintained, meaning that the bothy and garden wall had to be preserved to allow the project to take place.

As a result, Iain developed an innovative architectural design that divided the family home into two separate sections, split by a 13-metre skylight. In this design, the bothy, which was positioned against the garden wall, would be restored to house several bedrooms and act as an entrance to the property, with the rest of the house built within the large garden, hidden on the other side of the wall.

Due to the bothy’s lack of upkeep, the original roof slates were damaged beyond repair and several sarking boards and head ends had succumbed to rot. However, the main ridge was salvageable. Iain approached Allan Liddell, CUPA PIZARRAS Technical Sales Manager for Scotland, to work with the project team and find a slate solution that would maintain the bothy’s original aesthetic.

Allan recommended Heavy 3, a popular choice for projects needing a durable building material and a similar aesthetic to traditional Ballachulish Scottish slate. “Once we replaced the sarking boards and head ends, installing the Heavy 3 slates was a very straightforward process,” commented John Carey, Director at Carey Roofers. “CUPA PIZARRAS offers the best slate on the market so I’m happy to install its products whenever possible.”

Approximately 6,000 Heavy 3 slates were nail fixed to the bothy’s roof. Produced in two thicknesses, in this case the extra thickness and weight of the 7-8mm variant provides the strength to withstand the high wind speeds and driving rain that is common throughout Scotland. Also available in a number of sizes, Heavy 3 size 300 x 200mm slate is widely used on conservation projects and comes with a 100-year warranty as standard.

“I’m very pleased with the final result,” commented Iain. “The quality and the aesthetic of the slate were essential. I was already familiar with Heavy 3 as it is a common choice for our listed building work, so I was confident in the product. We opted for a slightly smaller format to closely replicate the Scottish slate originally removed from the bothy.” The project is now complete and has recently aired on the latest series of Channel 4’s architectural housebuilding programme Grand Designs, presented by Kevin McCloud. www.cupapizarras.com/uk