BUILDING
nnovations
w w w . b u i l d i n g i n n o v a t i o n s . c o . u k n o v e m b e r - d e c e m b e r
2 0 1 2
BUILDING
nnovations
Welcome to the digital edition of November/December’s 2012 Building Innovations magazine. The latest building news, opinions, products, projects and images - they’re all here! Just click to enlarge and reduce the page size, click the page edges to turn the pages, or click a thumbnail image at the bottom of the screen to view a particular double page spread. We’ve added an ‘icon panel’, so that you can see which button does what, at a glance. If you’d like to visit any websites that are contained in the magazine - they’re all highlighted - you guessed it...... click! If you’d like to use our online reader enquiry facility to ask for more information, just click HERE to open up our virtual enquiry card, type the enquiry numbers in (just refer to the individual enquiry numbers on each page - which aren’t clickable - for reference), complete your details, and click again to send it to us. We’ll take care of the rest. There’s also an autosave facility so that you don’t have to fill in your details next time. We hope you enjoy this edition of Building Innovations online - if you’ve got any comments or thoughts on the magazine and would like to share them with us, just email david@link2media.co.uk
ICON PANEL:
Email/Share Document
Print Document
Search Document
Return to Contents
Click to View Video Clips
ICON Manufacturer: Cantifix Product: Dormer Windows, Sky-Frame Doors & PureGlaze Pivot Doors Visit: www.cantifix.co.uk
contents vision
practice news
gallery
projects and products
opinion
manufacturers have their say
the book
building projects, news and information
news floors roofs
environmental control
doors, windows & glazing
interiors structures walls projects
www.buildinginnovations.co.uk Published by: Link2Media Limited Editorial Office: Barn 3, Dunston Business Village, Stafford Road, Dunston, Stafford ST18 9AB Tel: 01785 711591 Fax: 0845 862 8639 info@link2media.co.uk www.link2media.co.uk
Front Cover photograph kindly supplied by Bespoke Fireplaces Designs. Bespoke Fireplace Designs work closely with architects, designers and builders, and offer the complete solution from concept through design, to manufacture and installation. www.bespokefireplacedesigns.co.uk
VISION
www.guilhemeustache.com Title: FOBE HOUSE (A filmmaker’s House) Location: Tassoultante, Marrakech, Morocco Architect: Guilhem EUSTACHE
“For many years I regularly visited Morocco. From the first trip I was bewitched by that country and the three projects studied to date are certainly fed, to varying degrees, by all the images and impressions gathered during my stays.”
Architect Guilhem Eustache says he finds his inspiration in the work of a architects, painters, sculptors, conceptual artists or filmmakers of all periods and all schools, especially the detail of the paintings by Giorgio de Chirico, the discovery of the Jantar Mantar [observatories] at Jaipur, constructed by Maharajah Jai Singh II of Jaipur between 1727 and 1734 and the long tracking shots by filmmaker Orson Welles. He’s demonstrated the influence of all three at his recently completed Fobe Home, 10 miles south of Marrakesh, Morocco. “I find it difficult to establish precisely, for this project, where and when it refers to such or such painter or architect work,” says Guilhem “That’s why I’m always surprised when an architecture journalist accurately established similarities between my work and that of such artist.” His biggest challenge lay in defining the program with his client, a Belgian producer and director who originally planned to build three houses there. The project gradually shrank to include the smallest of the three. The other two are to be built elsewhere. The landscape is mostly drowned under a heat veil that hides the horizon. It is only from December to March that the snowy Atlas Mountains appears. With this modest building (1800 square feet of living space)
06
ISSUE 5 2012
Guilhem positioned the main building at the centre of the 2.5 hectares site. Large heights, flowing and open spaces, a play on shadow and light. Guilhem doubled the walls to help deal with the climate, creating room high-rise and sun protections. “Each region and country deserves architectural answers, adapted in line with requirements climatic, cultural and economic conditions,” says Guilhem. Guilhem used local materials and techniques like clay, tadelack, Pierre de Ourika. Also they planted 23 olive trees, 10 palm, 450 eucalyptus, 200 mimosa and 20 fruit trees, but trying not to undermine the wildness of the land. Two parallel concrete sails create a noise and visual barrier to the west. A steep stairway stands between the two walls, rising to a rooftop terrace that gives way to a spectacular view to the south.
VISION
Once you cross through the metal gate, you are suddenly plunged into a strange world. Three white steles frame and seek the longitudinal axis of the house in the center of the field. On the right side, the Guard house, two mixed cubes, is close to a totem pole fireplace and faces the double garage all in length studded with small openings. These simple elements articulate the vacuum around and focus the eye towards the house itself.
ISSUE 5 2012
07
VISION
www.isgplc.com Title: ISG Wins Ultimate BCO Accolade Location: London Company: ISG Photographs: Richard Bryant/arciadimages.com
ISG’s fit out of K&L Gates’ offices at One New Change, Cheapside in Central London, has received the ultimate industry accolade after not only securing the British Council for Offices’ (BCO) National Award for Best Fit Out of Workplace but also scooping the Best of the Best prize. At a glittering annual awards ceremony attended by more than 1,000 guests, K&L Gates and ISG, alongside Washington DC-based architects LSM and the project’s consultant team, received the news that the fit out had been officially recognised at the UK’s best of the best office-based developments. To secure this major achievement ISG’s project beat off stiff competition from national winners across seven categories, including Heron Tower, the BBC’s Media City in Manchester, Fort Dunlop in Birmingham and the 7 More London development. Paul Cossell, managing director of ISG Fit Out, commented: “K&L Gates’ offices at One New Change provide a stunning example of how the architectural features of a building can be maximised and enhanced to deliver a workplace that is both productive and aesthetic. Receiving the ultimate industry recognition for the hard work and collaborative working practices of all our project delivery partners is an outstanding result and firmly places ISG at the top of our industry.”
www.fabricarchitecture.com Title: New Landmark Riverfront Canopy Location: Owensboro, Ohio, USA Company: Fabric Architecture Limited
The City of Owensboro has been developing the Riverfront over the past 10 years, making it a cultural hub for tourism. At the end of the walkway to the river is an overlook area featuring a landmark fan-shaped tensile fabric structure. Integrated atop a stage area, this dynamic structure was designed as a performance shelter. The tensile fabric structure, with its heavy steel framework and vast canopy, was installed just on the edge of the river. To do this, Fabric Architecture’s specialist in-house Engineers engineered part of the river wall to support the structure. In addition to engineering challenges, getting the design right was crucial. The process involved several iterations, ensuring the structure complemented the bridge in the background. Working in coordination with the architect, the design result is a barrel vaulted canopy measuring 52’ x 28’. This custom canopy soars 33 feet above the edge of the river. Five steel masts support the cantilevered structure offering free-span space for summer concerts and activities. The iconic canopy is one of the highlights of the riverfront redevelopment.
08
ISSUE 5 2012
VISION
www.robertson.co.uk Title: Robertson complete ÂŁ110 million hospital in Aberdeen Location: Aberdeen Architect: Robertson
A ÂŁ110million state-of-the-art emergency care centre, one of the largest in Europe, has been completed on time and is on track to bring new health services to people living in Grampian and the surrounding areas. Marking the culmination of a three year construction project by Robertson, the infrastructure, support services and construction group, the new centre has been delivered on time and within budget due to the modern and innovative project management and build techniques. Robertson introduced a number of innovative measures to the construction process which includes a technique which has never been done before in the UK on this scale. Hundreds of service modules which contain equipment for the supply and distribution of mains services such as water, electricity, waste disposal and air conditioning were pre-fitted to modular frames which also incorporated the plasterboard partition elements above the ceiling. This removed the need for electricians and other tradesmen to work in a confined space saving time and money. A logistics company was also used to manage deliveries. Usually expensive materials are
stored in a secure unit on site or within the building while under construction. But with the vast quantity of building materials including more than 30,000 items of specialist equipment this would have been impossible. Instead Robertson had all the materials and equipment, including 500 miles of wire and 50 miles of pipe, delivered on a just-in-time basis. Following the successful completion, the company have now been contracted to lead on the redevelopment of two adjacent hospital buildings, which currently occupy inpatient facilities and operating theatres. The ÂŁ21million project starts on site in December 2012 and is due for completion in August 2014.
ISSUE 5 2012
09
THE BOOK/NEWS
Optigreen Partner Network
Trainees Go For Gold With Kingspan
Leading green roof supplier Optigreen introduces first dedicated partner network for green roof installers in the UK in November 2012. Optigreen's aim is to provide more security for both the installer and supplier with a unique partner network scheme. The goal is not only to strengthen relationships with installers but also to avoid any loss in quality of green roof systems being installed in the UK through financial pressures and poor specification. Optigreen intends to work even more closely with their independent contractors, offering competitive quotes and a high level of training and support. As an independent green roof supplier with no ties to any particular waterproofing system, Optigreen's main concern is that green roof installations meet both their own and industry guidelines and standards. www.optigreen.co.uk
The finals of SkillBuild, the largest multi-trade competition for construction trainees and apprentices in Britain has been held in Preston. Kingspan Insulated Panels understands the importance of this and worked with the National Federation of Roofing Contractors to offer training and guidance to finalists. For the roof sheeting & cladding category finalists were asked to fit a rig with a roof and wall build-up incorporating the Kingspan KS1000 RW Trapezoidal Insulated Roof Panel, KS1000 WV Wave Architectural Wall Panel and the translucent Kingspan Wall-Lite Panel. The training provided to the finalists and assessors is a service that is freely available to all contractors who want to work with Kingspan Insulated Panels. www.kingspanpanels.com
ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 1
ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 2
New Range Of Advanced Aspiration Detectors: FAAST LT
Xtratherm Joins Passivhaus Platform Xtratherm joined the Passiefhuis Platform, exhibiting at a major Passive House or Passivhaus symposium in Brussels on 5th October. The symposium is a leading event in the world of passive and energy efficient building, involving construction professionals, policy makers and public organisations. The aim is to stimulate the design of new buildings that meet Passivhaus standards. As the world’s fastest growing energy performance standard Passivhaus aims to build a house with excellent thermal performance, exceptional air tightness and mechanical ventilation. This minimises the heat used and permits heat to be recovered and re-circulated. A growing proportion of buildings are being designed and built in Belgium using PIR insulation in the walls, floors and roof. www.xtratherm.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 4
System Sensor, part of Honeywell, has extended its aspiration portfolio with the launch of FAAST LT, which offers highly effective fire detection for EN54-20 Class C applications where standard methods of detection are not the optimum solution. FAAST LT is designed for use in environments where access or maintenance is restricted, aesthetics are important, or in harsh environments where extremes in temperature, humidity and airflow may cause detector failure or false alarms. As a Class A device, FAAST LT provides high sensitivity detection in small mission critical applications such as small data server rooms. The new devices combine field-proven laser smoke detection technology with ultrasonic flow sensors and advanced design features for ease of installation and reliable operation in the toughest environments. www.faast-detection.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 3
FebSET 45 Is Back! Made to the original Feb formula, FebSET 45 – the market leading magnesia phosphate high strength repair mortar - is back on the market and is even better than ever! Everbuild Building Products Ltd acquired the Feb brand in 2009 and have seen it grow from strength to strength whilst still ensuring that they uphold the traditional Feb values that customers have long since known, used and trusted. FebSET 45 is a specially formulated repair mortar based on magnesia-phosphate cement pre-mixed with selected aggregates which gives controlled, extremely high early strengths in temperatures ranging from -30°C (or lower) up to over 30°C. FebSET 45 is ideal for use to repair damaged surfaces which are susceptible to heavy traffic where a minimum delay to work disruption is of the utmost importance. FebSET 45 can also be used to raise and level manhole covers, gratings and hydrants. www.feb.uk.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 5
010
ISSUE 5 2012
THE BOOK/NEWS
Remmers Win FeRFA Award With Shades Of Grey Remmers have been awarded the prestigious FeRFA Large Project of the Year Award for the 600m2 flooring specification in the new purpose built, state of the art Audi car centre in Leicester. A designer showroom in need of designer flooring; this project involved the installation of unique vertical design with just one construction joint sweeping into the main showroom floor area. Specially coated aggregates to exact granule sizing and colour were applied and installed by Phoenix Specialist Flooring Contractors, to produce a decorative and contemporary resin finish. Steel trims were sourced and powder coated to the exact same colour as the floor to hide any transitions giving the floor and wall the appearance of one sweeping finish. www.remmers.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 6
Pegler Yorkshire Goes Social To Increase Global Brand Awareness Pegler Yorkshire, the leading manufacturer of high quality flow control products, is expanding its marketing activities to include more digital and social media as part of its efforts to raise awareness of its market-leading brands at home and overseas. The company is using Twitter (www.twitter. com/pegleryorkshire) and Linkedin (www.linkedin.com/ company/pegler-yorkshire) to communicate with media and trade audiences, while Facebook (www.facebook.com/ PeglerYorkshire) activities are designed to connect with installers of its plumbing and heating ranges as well as the homeowners who ultimately benefit from their innovative water and energy-saving products. Pegler Yorkshire has also created a social media hub (www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk/socialMedia/) which brings together news and information from the plumbing and heating industry. www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 7
Fakro Roof Window Offers Highest Protection Yet Product developments in the roof window sector continue to influence style and functionality in equal measure. In addition to setting new standards of thermal efficiency and airtightness, however, FAKRO has launched the FTP-V P2 Secure roof window to provide a previously unseen level of burglary protection. It not only utilises the company’s unique topSafe system of hinge and lock reinforcement but Class P2A laminated anti-burglary glass, a system to prevent the glazing unit from being broken and an additional safety lock. 13 sizes are available in both standard and conservation style, with all having an automatic vent to prevent unnecessary heat loss. www.fakro.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 8
ISSUE 5 2012
011
THE BOOK/NEWS
Drywood Brings Warrantied Colour To Non-Com Exterior Non-Com Exterior from Lonza Wood Protection is the leading fire retardant protection for exterior cladding and construction timbers. The proven polymer based formulation of Non-Com Exterior treatment makes it the only UK Wood Protection Association Approved leach resistant fire retardant product. This allows the Non-Com Exterior treated timber to be used externally without the need for a protective coating. However, Lonza has now introduced Drywood Woodstain, a water based, high performance and warrantied coating for exclusive use on Non-Com Exterior treated timbers, giving specifiers the option to add an easy to maintain colour finish, if preferred. Drywood Woodstain from Drywood Coatings BV has been used successfully on Non-Com Exterior treated timbers within new build projects in Holland for a number of years. Available in a range of transparent, semi-opaque and fully opaque colours, it offers architects and designers a robust and reliable coating for use with Non-Com Exterior treated timbers. Drywood Woodstain exhibits excellent adhesion to Non-Com Exterior treated timber, and importantly does not compromise its fire retardant properties. Drywood Woodstain penetrates into the wood and also builds a thin film layer on the surface, reducing dirt adhesion and allowing the timber to breathe. It weathers slowly and evenly and is easily overcoated with minimum preparation for on-going maintenance. www.lonza.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 9
ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 10
012
ISSUE 5 2012
THE BOOK/NEWS
York Handmade Claims Hat-Trick Of Awards At Brick Oscars The York Handmade Brick Company, one of the leading independent brickmakers in the country, has won three categories in the prestigious 2012 Brick Awards. York Handmade, based at Alne, near Easingwold, in North Yorkshire, won the Best Single House, the Best Craftsmanship and Specialist Brickwork Contractor categories. The awards were presented at a glittering ceremony at the Marriott Grosvenor Square Hotel in London’s West End. Chairman David Armitage said: “We are particularly proud to be involved in three fantastic projects this year, all of which have been honoured in the Brick Awards. This is our best result ever in these awards.” Mr Armitage added “Huge thanks are due to the management team and employees at York Handmade for their imagination, enterprise and hard work, which all combined to make this success possible,”. The buildings which won the awards for York Handmade were: Four Oaks in Little Bedwyn, Wilts (Best Single House); Tupgill Cellar, near Middleham, North Yorkshire (Best Craftsmanship); and Chetham’s School of Music, Manchester (Specialist Brickwork Contractor). York Handmade has a remarkable record in the Brick Awards during the past decade. These national awards, run by the Brick Development Association in conjunction with Building magazine, are the brick industry’s Oscars. www.yorkhandmade.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 11
New Fully Updated Column Casing ‘E-Brochure’ From Encasement A new fully updated column casing ‘e-brochure’ from Encasement is now available for immediate download and has been expanded to incorporate even more product information as well as a wider range of project images and technical data for architects, specifiers and contractors. Encasement’s new PDF brochure groups together core information on every product in the company’s extensive column casing range into dedicated sections covering key features, project images, specification data and technical information. Photographic content for the six column casing products within the range, which covers Circa, Quadra, Forma, Polyma, Gypra and Metza, has also been extended and updated to represent the most up to date project installations and demonstrate the diverse scope of applications. Every product within the new brochure is fully supported by Encasement’s comprehensive website, which provides information on dimensions and material specifications together with extensive project case studies and gallery pages. It also includes a detailed ‘Tech info’ section, which gives access to a range of downloads including PDF and DWG format product drawings, materials and finish information as well as specification clauses and downloadable brochures. www.encasement.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 12
ISSUE 5 2012
013
THE BOOK/NEWS
Brick Innovates New Station Building A new station building in London scooped a top award at the 2012 Brick Awards organised by the Brick Development Association. “Beautifully pieced together” were the comments from the judges, as the West Hampstead Thameslink Station won the award for Innovative Use of Brick and Clay Products. The station, officially opened in December 2011 includes a concourse, a small retail concession as well as staff and passenger support accommodation. The station is approached from West Hampstead’s main thoroughfare, West End Lane, along with a new linear public space created by transforming a sloping railway embankment into a level, tree-lined avenue which provides direct views of the station from the town centre. The concourse connects to a new passenger bridge spanning the tracks and giving step-free access to the platforms. The use of brickwork stemmed from two primary design decisions: Firstly architects Landholt and Brown wanted to use a material which could extend from the station approach into the concourse building itself. Secondly, it was considered essential that the facing material of the new wall which dominates the approach should create a high degree of visual interest and respond to the avenue of lime trees which overhang the new public space. By using Ibstocks Umbra Sawtooth Glazed bricks, the wall graduates in colour from dark green on one end to pale green at the other, bases on shades taken from the lime trees. As well as creating visual interest, this helps with wayfinding and orientation. The wall’s rich texture creates a particularly striking three dimensional surface at night when it washed with light from concealed lighting units within the parapet. Its faceted, hardwearing finish also acts as a deterrent to graffiti and fly posting. The glazed brick was specially commissioned for this public project and has provided a precedent for the brick industry. Each brick was laid with absolute accuracy by brickwork contractor, Irvine Whitlock, with extra attention given to details such as movement joints. It was clear that all parties involved worked closely to ensure the correct brick was used and explored appropriately. www.brick.org.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 13
014
ISSUE 5 2012
THE BOOK/NEWS
Gary’s Asian Cycle Marathon Raises Cash For Charity Polypipe Building Products Regional Sales Manager Gary Foord – plastic plumbing’s answer to Bradley Wiggins – has just completed a charity bike ride in South East Asia from Vietnam to Cambodia in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society. 470km of often dusty roads and jungle tracks took Gary and his compatriots from Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam to Siem Reap in Cambodia over an eight day period during which he says he saw some of the most amazing sights he’s ever seen en route, including the Royal Temples of Angkor Wat. Gary says it was a great experience albeit it was tough at times: “Temperatures varied between 36 and 46 degrees centigrade so not necessarily the weather to be on a bike! But it was great knowing that what I was doing was benefitting a really worthwhile charity.” Gary’s ride has raised in excess of £4,700 for the Alzheimers Society so far and expects to exceed £5,000 once all donations come in. There are 750,000 people in the UK that suffer from forms of dementia and the Alzheimer’s Society is the UK’s leading support service and research charity for people with dementia and their carers. “I’m really grateful to everyone who helped me to undertake the South Asia ride – individuals who contributed, PTS and of course Polypipe who were major supporters and fund raising helpers,” says Gary. www.polypipe.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 14
Alumen_192x120.5_Layout 1 29/11/2012 11:57 Page 1
ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 15
01536 312939
info@alumen.co.uk www.alumen.co.uk
Showroom at: Britannia Road, Kettering, NN16 9RX
You and your clients can visit our retail focussed showroom to see how the quality solutions on offer can benefit a high end garden room or conservatory project. See for yourself the wide selection of popular colour options, many of which are available from as little as two weeks.
Choose from our range of: ❚ Aluminium bi-folding doors ❚ Sliding doors ❚ Aluminium windows ❚ Contemporary front doors ❚ Crittall replacement windows ❚ Commercial doors and low rise curtain walling ISSUE 5 2012
015
THE BOOK/NEWS
Mobilane Works With Researchers And Clients To Highlight Benefits Of Well-Designed Green Spaces Mobilane has embarked on a pioneering partnership with Staffordshire University help existing and potential customers understand how wellmanaged green planted spaces can enhance wellbeing and solve social and environmental problems. From improving mental health and reducing crime to improving air quality, the issues that the installation of a well-designed green space can resolve are diverse. In order to put these benefits on a more scientific footing, Mobilane and Staffordshire University are asking businesses – whether from the private or public sector – to come up with suggestions of what areas they would like investigating. Scientists from the university will then work with the company and Mobilane to research the precise benefits that an intelligently designed green space can yield in a particular area, for example building insulation, employee attendance rates or an improvement in general human well-being. Some research by is currently under way with a study investigating how successful carefully designed green spaces can be at influencing biodiversity, improving building insulation and capturing microscopic pollutants, thereby improving air quality and human health. Mobilane has developed a partnership with the university after director Sean Farrell held discussions with academics from its Faculty of Sciences and was impressed by the independent rigour they would bring to the research.
016
ISSUE 5 2012
Sean Farrell comments: “The problems that smartly designed and wellmanaged green spaces can solve are diverse, from improving respiratory health to reducing instances of domestic violence. Some research has already been done into these areas, but we are keen to work with industry and the public sector to help further clarify and quantify these benefits.” “Intelligently designed green spaces have a multitude of benefits, but scrutinising them in this way will give a clearer, deeper understanding of precisely what those benefits are. This research will provide firm evidence of the wide-ranging improvements the introduction of a high-quality green space into a development can bring.” “We have wanted to be involved in research into the credentials of wellmanaged green spaces for some time and when we heard of the academic work being done at Staffordshire University we were keen to find out more and get involved.” The current research being done at Staffordshire University will provide more information on how pollutants known as PM10s – particulate matter that is less than 10 microns in diameter – are absorbed by plants. The reduction of PM10 levels is a focus of policy for the Department for Transport and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. www.mobilane.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 16
THE BOOK/NEWS
Lonza Launch CPD Portal To Architects And Specifiers Lonza Wood Protection has officially launched its new Continuing Professional Development (CPD) portal. Architects are required to complete 35 hours of CPD in order to retain their chartered status with the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). The new Lonza CPD portal gives specifiers the opportunity to complete RIBA accredited CPD from the comfort of their workstation or home computer. One seminar will initially be available, with more to follow that will mirror Lonza's face to face CPD curricula. Users watch the seminar and complete the following short examination successfully in order to receive their certificate. Individual courses are worth 1 hour of Continuing Professional Development and allow specifiers to obtain study hours within RIBA’s Core Curriculum under the ‘Designing and Building It’ topic. This first CPD seminar is available free of charge to registered users of the Lonza Wood Protection CPD portal at www. lonzawoodcpd.com
Isn’t it great when things just click...
ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 17 ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 19
Conforms to BS 6180:1999 & BS 6399-1:1996
You know the correct fixing force* is applied when the TAPER-LOC® tool ‘clicks’ the glass into place.
Premium Wood Protection From Remmers Remmers have developed a new product called Long Time Stain UV that provides considerably better and longer lasting protection from UV-Rays that destroy wood. Whether fences, facades, windows and shutters, doors or garden furniture, the solvent based, medium solid, translucent coating is designed for universal use on wood outdoors. It is drip inhibited and makes overhead work a lot easier. The silk gloss finish repels soil and is easy to maintain. www.remmers.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 18
The TAPER-LOC® System is the simple way to install glass railings and balustrades†. *Nm †For toughened/toughened laminated glass from 12mm-25.52mm thick.
GENERAL CONSTRUCTION SUPERVISION ADMISSION
Patented
t: 00 800 0421 6144 e: CRL@crlaurence.co.uk
taperloc.co.uk
*For toughened/toughened laminated glass from 12mm-25.52mm thick
ISSUE 5 2012
017
GALLERY/PRODUCT/DECOFLAME Title: Decoflame® E-Ribbon Fire Application: Bioethanol Fireplaces Visit: www.decoflame.com
Since 2007, Decoflame has become the synonym for Danish Design and Craftsmanship on the market for bioethanol fireplaces. Comprising a large variety of both standard and made to measure bioethanol fireplace models, the decoflame® range of fires are amongst the safest and most stylish currently available. In February 2012, the Denmark-based manufacturer introduced a second generation of electronically controlled ethanol-fuelled burner – the decoflame® e-Ribbon Fire (patent pending). Featuring cutting-edge technology, this remotely controlled burner can be installed as a standalone drop-down unit or as part of the decoflame® made to measure built-in bioethanol fireplace models Montreal and Orlando. The decoflame® e-Ribbon Fire combines ease of installation and operation with functional safety, introducing the joy and warmth of a real open fire to domestic and commercial fireplace applications without the need for a flue or chimney. ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 20
GALLERY/PRODUCT/CORAM SHOWERPODS Title: Coram Showerpods NEW Colour Palettes! Application: Showerpods Visit: www.coramshowerpods.co.uk
We all know it’s impossible to avoid the cold dark nights drawing in, but with Coram Showerpods it’s now possible to elude them. With its newly introduced and inspired range of colour palettes, Coram Showerpods add a touch of summertime - all year round! Available across its entire portfolio, expertly built in Britain, Coram Showerpods unlock a new and exciting concept for its range of this market leading shower solution. Amongst several unique benefits, Coram Showerpods inherently boast the fact that they are completely leak-proof, easy to clean and virtually maintenance free. Available in a range of sizes and now new colour options, there is the choice to create either a standard or bespoke colour with Coram Showerpods accommodating almost any RAL or suite, plus granite effects. Each pod comes complete with a beautifully finished, high quality Coram shower door, a choice of high performance thermostatic mixer showers and unique patent protected ‘Waterguard’ shower trays. The entire unit can be fully connected and fitted really quickly and without the need for problematic tiling, the pod is future-proofed, the ideal option to save money, plus capitalising on installation time and always reinforced by your peace of mind. Dedicated to producing a complete range of sizes and styles to suit all applications, the Shower Pod collection includes; the Quadrant, Corner, Bi-fold Alcove and Sliding Alcove. ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 21
018
ISSUE 5 2012
GALLERY/PRODUCT/BESPOKE FIREPLACE DESIGNS Title: Fireplace Innovation And Design Application: Bespoke Fireplaces Visit: www.bespokefireplacedesigns.co.uk
Bespoke Fireplace Designs have noticed a big change in the past few years, where fireplaces are not just a source of heating within the home; they are becoming a stunning feature to complement their interior theme. Contemporary feature fires are very on trend, whether it be 2 metre hole-in-the-wall gas fire, or a beautiful central glass suspended fireplace. More and more clients are now seeking bespoke fires, unique to their own designs and individual requirements. Specifying every detail from the size, shape and burner design, to the exact colour co-ordination within the room. Alongside the Bespoke Fireplace Designs range of fires, there is also a beautiful range of Wood Burning and Open Gas Fires from leading Dutch manufacturer Kal-Fire, and an extensive range of Balance Flue Appliances from suppliers Kal-Fire and ThermoCet. The Heat Pure Wood Burning range from Kal-Fire creates a unique appliance that has a lift-door mechanism, which can be burnt with the door completely open, or closed. An exclusive valve device on the Heat Pure range has been patented by Kal-Fire, and allows for combustion air to be connected directly from the outside to the appliance. This means that there is not a requirement for additional ventilation into the room. The Bespoke Fireplace Designs range of highly efficient, high output Balance Flue Gas Appliances are available in a wide variety of sizes and configurations, including tunnels, 3-sided, 2-sided, and even a 280 degree 4-sided visual fireplace. This range is available in natural gas, or LPG. Bespoke Fireplace Designs specialise in creating wood burning and open gas appliances specifically to individual requirements. Bespoke Fireplace Designs work closely with architects, designers and builders, and offer the complete solution from concept through design, to manufacture and installation. ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 22
GALLERY/PRODUCT/JIS EUROPE LTD Title: New Rail For JIS Sussex Range Application: JIS Sussex Range Visit: www.thecoastalrange.co.uk
JIS Europe Ltd. is a leading supplier of stainless steel radiators and towel rails. Brand new additions to the JIS Sussex range are a set of three Fletching Rails, substantial towel rails especially conceived to match the modern trend towards retro-styled bathrooms. The Fletching Rails are beautifully made to a smart but chunky design that has distinct overtones of the massiveness of superior Victorian plumbing. The Fletching Rails are in top quality stainless steel in a polished finish and are available in central heating, electric and dual fuel formats. The design of the Fletching Rails is simple but effective. The smallest model is 520mm wide and 635mm high, with fixing supports at each corner and a central horizontal rail in addition to those at top and bottom. The larger sizes are also 520mm wide and 910mm high and 1185mm high respectively; the 910mm model has two unsupported horizontal rails and the largest, three. The corner supports are very simple to fix and are designed to hold the rails sufficiently far from the wall to prevent the ‘snagging’ of towels that can be so infuriating. Confidence in the permanence of the stainless steel towel rails is backed by a 25 Years JIS Guarantee. ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 23
ISSUE 5 2012
019
GALLERY/PROJECT/DuPont™ Title: Creative Solutions For A New African Landmark – DuPont™ Corian® For The Imax Cinema And Morocco Mall Location: Morocco Application: DuPont™ Corian® Visit: www.corian.co.uk
With retail space totaling 70,000 square meters, the Morocco Mall is a ground-breaking new destination for entertainment and shopping in Casablanca.. Davide Padoa, CEO of Design International architectural studio, commissioned to design the project, describes it as “a symbol for Morocco’s ability to absorb global trends and developments without losing its identity.”
take on any form or shape allowed Yasser Kahlaoui to create the illusion of an entire 3D structure. Each of the DuPont™ Corian® red panels has a different sizes and inclination to create suggestive volumes. The panel cladding was conceived and installed by Deborel Maroc (under the guidance of Igor Desmazieres) in collaboration with technical specialists of DuPont™ Corian®.
Among the many distinguishing architectural features is the incorporation of the infinity "8" symbol into the structure, harmoniously complimenting its Atlantic Ocean coast and creating a natural bridge between the building and the sea. The interiors of the complex feature multiple use of DuPont™ Corian® hi-tech surfaces, including reception desks, information signage, decorative screens and a dramatic application of cladding for the connecting IMAX® Cinema .
As highlighted by Yasser Kahlaoui, this interior 3D red shell in DuPont™ Corian® is unique in the world. The choice of red reflects enthusiasm and a desire to dominate the scene, but at the same this color enhances human creativity and spreads energy. “The IMAX® interiors are suggestive of a tasty red fruit, or an underwater coral, something very attractive that you can’t help touching, an object of desire.” DuPont™ Corian® has also been selected for the concession counters.
Outside the Mall but accessible from the main entrance, the impressive structure has been designed by architect Yasser Kahlaoui. The building closes the infinity symbol and acts as a natural connection between the mall and the exterior landscape. The IMAX® 3D cinemas are well known for the innovative technologies and the Morocco Mall location has a capacity of 400 seats, offering the first digital projection in Africa. Within the building, a 550 square metre red shell-like form weighing 20 tons is made entirely in DuPont™ Corian®. The same hi performance surface is also used for the bright red interior ceilings and sections of wall cladding. The natural solidity and ability of DuPont™ Corian® to
020
ISSUE 5 2012
A selection of the newly refined DuPont™ Corian® colour palette is expertly used to maximize visual effects of the Morocco Mall: red for the IMAX® ceiling, an elegant brown for the advertising screens, black and white for the information ‘totems’ all demonstrating the immeasurable potential for working with DuPont™ Corian® that allows architects to give free reign to their creativity. Inside the bathrooms located on the luxury bands floor of the mall, DuPont™ Corian® has been used to create beautiful ‘moucharabieh’ style space dividers, in a white version for the ladies cloakroom, and in a black version for the men’s, giving a modern look to an object traditionally made of wood. ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 24
ISSUE 5 2012
021
GALLERY/PROJECT/STANNAH LIFTS Title: Doing The Locomotion With Network Rail . . . Location: Edinburgh Product: Bespoke Passenger Lifts Visit: www.stannahlifts.co.uk
Once again, Stannah is doing the locomotion with a major Network Rail revamp – moving millions of people around Edinburgh Waverley, a 24-7 main line railway station sited in Scotland’s capital centre. As part of a £130-million investment to support a burgeoning tide of passengers, Stannah’s Major Projects team has fast-tracked an extensive lift replacement and refurbishment program culminating in an illuminated bespoke passenger duplex on the station roofline. Works included: relocating an existing mailroom on platform 10 on a 33-hour Disruptive Possession; removing a 33-person hydraulic lift on platform 8/9 and replacing it with a 33-person, Network Rail specification, 2-floor semiscenic hydraulic lift; installing an 8-person MRL lift as a temporary solution while the lift on platform 8/9 was being installed; and extending the existing 2-floor, 16-person New Street Car Park hydraulic lift to serve three floors to include the new bridge level and the new entrance on Market Street. Several further lift replacements are also in the pipeline. Importantly, the Stannah Major Projects team responded to a revised schedule that compressed a 10-week project into 30 working days and installed a
022
ISSUE 5 2012
bespoke hydraulic passenger lift duplex, operating at 0.63mps and located directly above the rail track. This is a show-stopping feature, particularly after dark when the Italian lighting system (also installed by Stannah) throws it into dramatic and futuristic relief against Edinburgh’s ancestral backdrop. Stannah Project Manager for Edinburgh Waverley, Jerry Sutton, comments: “Whilst flexing operations around a hectic train timetable, we have successfully increased the people-moving capacity of this main line station by offering a comprehensive relocation, refurbishment, renewal, bridging and bespoke lift solution. Even when faced with a drastically reduced deadline we worked flat out, day and night, to deliver on time and budget. Of course, the floodlit rooftop duplex blazons both Stannah’s capability and Edinburgh Waverley’s emergence as a 21st-century rail hub.”
Not only do the Stannah passenger lifts ensure that Network Rail meets the requirements of the Equality Act 2010, they are serviced by the Scotland branch of Stannah Lift Services, part of a nationwide network providing 24 hour, 365 days a year support. Stannah Lift Services Major Projects team works closely with contractors and developers to provide bespoke lift solutions, escalators and moving walkways to retro-fit and new-build developments right across the UK. ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 25
ISSUE 5 2012
023
GALLERY/PROJECT/CANTIFIX Title: Cantifix Creates PureGlaze™ Spa At Exeter Hotel Location: Exter Application: Dormer Windows, Sky-Frame Doors & PureGlaze Pivot Doors Visit: www.cantifix.co.uk
Originally a Victorian eye hospital, and previously known as 'Hotel Barcelona', the newly opened Magdalen Chapter Hotel in Exeter has had a three-year internal and external refurbishment – completed in 2012. The Grade II listed building has had additional bedrooms created in its roof, and the internal courtyard filled in to create a contemporary lounge area. The heritage of the building was important, and as many original features as possible have been retained – including the tiled floor of the operating rooms, complete with drainage holes! Cantifix carried out extensive work on the Magdalen Chapter Hotel, starting with 8 special frameless dormer windows, which were fitted to the new roof bedrooms to ensure maximum views over the city and countryside. The glass continues into the lounge and bar area, where a large set of Sky-Frame doors 024
ISSUE 5 2012
and a double set of PureGlaze pivot doors allow the activity to spill out onto the terrace – and help create the hotel’s desired ‘contemporary wonderland’ feeling. Cantifix glass features again in the 'inside out' pool area - fixed panels of glass have been used to create a magical environment, where guests can swim from outside to in. Another set of PureGlaze pivot doors have been used to great effect at the entrance to the spa area, providing a welcoming, light-filled façade. ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 26
GALLERY/PROJECT/SCHUECO Title: Unitised Façade System And Sliding Doors From Schueco Are Vital Elements In Major Project At Canada Water, London Location: London Application: Unitised Façade System And Sliding Doors Visit: www.schueco.co.uk
Aluminium façade and door systems from Schueco UK Limited are being used extensively in the construction of a 27-storey residential tower-block at Maple Quays, South East London. The project, for Barratt London, is part of the massive Canada Water development that aims to regenerate the Rotherhithe area. The £8 million design, prefabrication and installation contract was won by London façade specialist and Schueco network partner, M Price. The company is using Schueco’s USC 65 insulated unitised façade system for the work. This extremely flexible system, which is ideally suited to large projects, combines economy and functionality with visually striking aesthetics in the form of continuous, consistently narrow sight-lines. The contract involves the fabrication of over 1,000 2.5 m x 3 m unitised sections, which are being constructed off-site. A second Schueco system, ASS 70 FD, an aluminium, thermally insulated folding/sliding door system, is also being installed in apartments with balconies. Delivering 'U' values as low as 1.7 W/m2K, the doors offer excellent water-tightness, are easy to open and close and can accommodate door leaf sizes up to 1200 mm wide and 3000 mm high. This phase of Maple Quays includes not only the landmark central tower, but also four lowrise blocks, bringing the total number on the site to ten. ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 27
GALLERY/PROJECT/HELIFIX Title: Helifix Sympathetic Heritage Repairs Allay Concerns Of Conservation Officer Location: Oxford Application: Non-Disruptive Repair Products And Installation Visit: www.helifix.co.uk
When an early 18th Century Grade II listed stone cottage near Oxford needed sympathetic stabilisation, to overcome cracking, outward movement and bowing of the front elevation. The slim, flexible and non-disruptive nature of Helifix’s repair products and their concealed installation techniques overcame the officer’s concerns. Combined with Helifix’s considerable experience in securing listed and heritage buildings, she was satisfied that the repair scheme, devised by Helifix and structural engineers, Hannah Reed Associates, and undertaken by Approved Installer, Red Brick Structural Solutions, would reliably restore the structural integrity of the property without affecting its aesthetic appearance. Alterations and aging had caused a loss of lateral restraint in the 500mm thick random stone wall which was fully stabilised and reconnected to internal floor joists, cracks were stitched and all without affecting the aesthetics of this historic property. ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 28
ISSUE 5 2012
025
GALLERY/PROJECT/SHACKERLEY Title: The Manser Practice Clads Second Hilton Hotel With Shackerley’s Ceramic Granite Location: London Application: Sureclad Ceramic Granite Ventilated Cladding System Visit: www.shackerley.com
Gleaming black polished ceramic granite ventilated facades supplied by Shackerley have provided a stunning appearance and a high performance outer envelope for the new Hilton London Wembley Hotel, which overlooks two of the capital’s best known landmarks, Wembley Stadium and Wembley Arena. Architects at The Manser Practice have delivered the luxury 361-bedroomed hotel as part of the wider Wembley Masterplan, which incorporates a mixture of commercial, leisure, retail and residential accommodation and community facilities around the stadium. The hotel’s monolithic polished black facades and flush glazing reflect the striking imagery of the surrounding buildings and at the same time provide a vivid contrast with the dramatic white concrete of Wembley Arena. The Manser Practice was one of the very first architectural practices in the UK to recognise the aesthetic and technical benefits of Shackerley’s ceramic granite ventilated facades a decade ago. Back in 2002, in a move which would attract the attention of the wider UK A & D community, the architects opted to clad the exteriors of the £26million extension to the Hilton London Gatwick Airport with the Lancashire manufacturer’s large format ceramic granite panels, selecting a polished buff colour to complement the travertine of the original building. Since then the practice has gone on to specify Shackerley’s Queen’s Award winning Sureclad ceramic granite ventilated cladding system to enhance and protect other standout buildings in the hotel, health and general commercial sectors, including this second luxury Hilton development. Whilst the facades on the new hotel have been constructed from a modern, innovative and technologically advanced material, the design of the building itself was inspired by two majestic buildings constructed in the 1930s as Barry Mullin, Project Architect at The Manser Practice reveals: “Sir Owen Williams, the design engineer responsible for Wembley Arena, also designed the Daily Express Buildings in Fleet Street and Manchester, both of which are striking, highly reflective flush black buildings. We wanted to follow this precedent and design a hotel that was not only striking in its own right but which would complement and reflect the grandeur of the Arena. Having used Shackerley’s polished ceramic granite successfully on previous projects we knew the material would deliver the clean uncluttered lines and the highly reflective finish we required and at the same time provide the durability and low maintenance properties needed.” Over 3400m2 of polished black ceramic granite was supplied in a 1200 x 600mm format for the exterior hotel elevations. As Barry commented, “This is a cost effective facade panel module that we’ve used before. It works with standard floor to floor heights and minimises the amount of bespoke cutting needed which makes it an economical solution.” The facades were erected using Shackerley’s Sureclad Hang On system and the ‘installation ready’ panels were pre-assembled at works prior to delivery to site, with hanging brackets secured by a patented stainless steel undercut anchorage system. All prefabrication works including the precision undercut drilling required to facilitate a safe secure mechanical fix, was carried out at Shackerley’s ISO 9001 accredited production facilities in Lancashire. This minimised the amount of preparatory work that needed to be carried out on site by Prater, who were subcontracted to install the facades by main contractor John Sisk & Son on behalf of Quintain Estates & Developments. A further 100m2 of ceramic granite panelling was destined for the hotel reception area where it has been installed on a modified shallow zone Sureclad system of brackets and rails to provide visual continuity with the exterior and create high quality wall cladding for the lofty three-storey high interiors. The hotel, which was completed in time to welcome visitors to the Olympics, has met with widespread acclaim. It has also met environmental targets, attaining a BREEAM rating of Very Good. Ten years after undertaking their very first ceramic granite ventilated cladding project, and with several other successful Sureclad projects completed, The Manser Practice have used Shackerley’s market leading system to deliver yet another stunning hotel development bearing the internationally renowned Hilton brand. ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 29
026
ISSUE 5 2012
ISSUE 5 2012
027
GALLERY/PROJECT/WICONA Title: Wicona Develops Bespoke Unitised Façade Solution For New 50-Storey Tower In Frankfurt Location: Germany Application: Bespoke Unitised Façade Visit: www.wicona.co.uk
A new 50-storey office scheme in Frankfurt – now Germany’s fourth tallest building – incorporates 3,000 opening vents and two bespoke aluminium façade solutions developed by Wicona. Tower 185 was completed on time and on budget and has since been awarded LEED gold certification – the internationallyrecognised standard for sustainable construction. Designed by architect Christoph Mäckler, the oval-shaped development is located in the heart of the city’s financial district. It provides 100,000sqm of office accommodation and comprises two halves with glass and aluminium façades that are joined by a central fully glazed tower. The 27,000sqm Wicona facade was fabricated and installed by FKN. Its design had to take account of the structural requirements of a building that is over 200m tall and provide high levels of thermal and acoustic performance to meet the scheme’s stringent sustainability criteria and occupier comfort. The building envelope had to be installed on a very constrained city centre site and to a fast track programme of just over a year which would include work through the harsh winter months. Two specially-designed unitised façade solutions were developed by Wicona and FKN to meet the specification criteria and the site and programme challenges. The glazed panels were prefabricated off site in a controlled factory environment which was not subject to the weather and so ensured consistently high quality 028
ISSUE 5 2012
standards. Highly efficient logistics were then planned to accommodate delivery and installation on site without the need for material storage. Around 50 per cent of the high-rise façade is glass and the glazed tower is oriented to the north, reducing energy for heating and cooling. Full height glazed panels maintain a high level of natural light inside the building and allow eight corner offices and more than 50 desks on each floor to be positioned at a window. A significant innovation for the façade was its method of installation. An assembly robot was developed for the project which moved each unitised panel through its structural opening to the exterior of the building, turned it to the correct position and then installed it. This allowed up to 20 façade panels, each measuring around 7sqm and weighing half a tonne, to be installed every day despite difficult wind and weather conditions. The Wicona façade solutions for this project exceeded the thermal performance specification for the project, achieving a Ucw value of 1.3W/m2K. The acoustic performance requirements for airborne sound were also exceeded in both the glazed rotunda (37 dB) and the two aluminium and glass façades (38 dB). To view a video of the façade installation without scaffolding, see www.youtube.com/user/WiconaUK?feature=guide ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 30
GALLERY/PROJECT/AMERICAN HARDWOOD EXPORT COUNCIL Title: White Oak Doubles Up As An Interior And Exterior Solution Bringing Warmth And Brightness To Church Crescent In North London Location: North London Application: American White Oak Visit: www.americanhardwood.org
Conveniently located in the heart of Finchley in North London, Church Crescent is a residential street of large semi-detached family homes. A recent project, executed by Evonort Architects for a private client had three particular goals; a rear extension to create an informal dining area bridging the half storey change in level between the kitchen and garden terrace; rearranging the first floor bedrooms to form a master bedroom suite; and excavating part of the basement to increase headroom and create an additional bedroom and shower. Every extension project is unique and Evonort Architects worked closely with the client to create a modern and bespoke extension that would sensitively integrate with the brick house and mature garden. Evonort sought to specify just one material that would be suitable for both the interior joinery and the exterior of the extension. After extensive research into sourcing a suitable type of oak, American white oak was the timber of choice. For the exterior walls, the unfinished creamy light brown tones of American white oak which will weather naturally and require little maintenance for the life of the building, appealed to both the client and architect. In contrast to the natural finish cladding, pre-finished engineered white oak boards were suitable for the interior floor, steps and joinery in the extended dining area as it is a hard and heavy wood with a medium bending quality and visually appealing. A number of timber suppliers were contacted in order to discuss at length their requirements and criteria for the timber. According to Adam Howard from Evonort, “We wanted an oak that was sustainable, within budget, durable for external use without sealing or finishing, and available in our specified size of 32mm x 32mm. American white oak was the perfect solution�. The objective was to create a contemporary rear extension with substantial glazing to maintain maximum daylight in the existing kitchen. Square sections of natural American white oak were used to clad the extension walls and roof, surrounding the glazed sliding doors and large roof light. The solid white oak rain screen cladding helped to achieve a detailed bespoke and contemporary aesthetic manner following the slope of the roof. Carrying the cladding over the roof with flush detailing to the roof-light helped to enhance the building when viewed at any angle. This gave the extension a sharp and dynamic appeal whilst sensitively integrating the extension with the brick house and mature garden. A system of double battens allowed for a construction method to avoid visible fixings. By creating angled notches in the secondary battens to the front face of the extension, the square section cladding was also fixed at the angle of the roof, creating an interesting junction with the side elevation cladding. 10mm gaps between 40mm oak enable ventilation behind the cladding. The finished result was hugely satisfactory to both the client and architect. Evonort worked to a specific brief from the client but were able to deliver a beautiful white oak cladded exterior displaying the luminous dining area extension, creating a warmth and brightness to Church Crescent. ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 31
ISSUE 5 2012
029
THE BOOK/FLOORS
PRP - Master-Planning With Paving The trade association Interpave has just published another of its ‘Master-Planning with Paving’ case studies – updated and expanded with recent site visits. It looks at how precast concrete surfaces, including permeable paving, form an important part of the hard landscaping palette of PRP - a major practice involved with a diversity of projects. PRP is one of the world’s largest multidisciplinary practices, specialising in sustainable residential and mixed-use design. It has a specialist Landscape division, involved from the start in masterplanning projects alongside its other designers and consultants. The Interpave case study explores several major new housing schemes, each with phases at a different stage of development ranging from early design through to completion on site. It demonstrates an exemplary approach where PRP consider detailed design and execution on site to be central to successful hard landscaping. It also showcases how precast concrete block and flag paving and kerbs - with their distinct, modular units and designed variations in colour, texture and shape - can give visual interest and a human scale not possible with monotonous, formless materials. The case study is part of a series exploring the application of current approaches to master-planning, urban design and ‘place shaping’, focusing on external surfaces. These topics are discussed in more detail in Interpave’s ‘Planning with Paving’ document. This and other case studies - as well as Interpave guidance on various topical issues ranging from Sustainability to SuDS - can be downloaded via the Interpave information resource at www.paving.org.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 32
Remmers Provide Audi With Shades Of Grey Having outgrown their previous site, a new purpose built, state of the art Audi car centre was constructed on a three acre site in Leicester. The Audi specification of a 600m2 floor including a wooden wall structure with just one single construction joint sweeping into the main showroom floor area was met by Remmers to perfection. Specially coated aggregates to exact granule sizing and colour were also supplied and installed. Steel trims were sourced and powder coated to the exact same colour as the floor to hide any transitions giving the floor and wall the appearance of one sweeping finish. www.remmers.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 33
030
ISSUE 5 2012
THE BOOK/FLOORS
Tessera Mix – The Evolution Of Random Lay Tiles Forbo Flooring Systems has refreshed its best selling Tessera Mix random lay, batchless carpet tile range with the introduction of eight contemporary colourways in line with current interior design trends. This attractive and innovative floor covering combines tone and shade with a subtle geometric design, creating a distinctive and attractive flooring solution. Although the individual tiles are designed to be laid in a completely random fashion, Mix always delivers an attractive, multi-layered and seamless aesthetic that enhances the floor spaces of any scale from intimate corridors to expansive open plan offices. New colourways now available include the black and charcoal Obsidian, alluring teal Glacier, the rich jewel hues of Ruby, Amethyst and Jade, along with strong, natural earthy shades of Sahara, Husk and Stone. These are skilfully grouped together with seven existing, timeless references, resulting in a completely refreshed and confident modern colour offer designed to ensure the collection continues to lead the way in random lay propositions. Designed in accordance with Forbo’s green design principles, Mix is manufactured in the UK using advanced ‘Infinity’ tufting technology to create
a high performance, durable product - extremely resistant to frequent, heavy footfall and wheeled traffic - at an economical pile weight. The use of solution dyed yarns ensures long lasting colour fastness and resistance to fading. A true random lay tile, Mix generates less than 2% fitting waste, as almost every last off-cut can be used, and speed of installation is increased as there are no directional rules to follow and the pile and pattern direction do not have to be checked. Being batchless, future workspace expansion and reorganisation can be accommodated without concern over colour matching, and as there is no need to order and store spare stocks, wastage is reduced further still. Tiles can be ordered in quantities as low as a single box, if and when they are actually required. Forbo’s random lay, batchless carpet tile portfolio also includes the newly introduced Tessera Circulate collection. www.forbo-flooring.co.uk/moreinfo ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 34
ISSUE 5 2012
031
THE BOOK/ROOFS
‘Ultimate’ Center Parcs Experience Specifies Hambleside Danelaw Valley Troughs The ‘new for 2012’ two-storey Treehouses at the Center Parcs Holiday Villages have been fitted with Hambleside Danelaw’s Dry Fix mortarless GRP Valley Troughs, meaning that Hambleside’s roofing products have yet again been specified for another project of a top quality brand. Other prestigious buildings with Hambleside products installed are the McLaren F1 headquarters, the British Museum, London Zoo’s Gorilla Kingdom, Durlston Castle at a World Heritage Site, and Marks and Spencer’s largest distribution centre. Roofed using cedar wood shingles, not a common choice of roof covering in the UK, the Treehouses at Sherwood Forest and Longleat Forest are designed for families or friends who want the ‘ultimate’ Center Parcs experience with views of the forest. The luxury features include a games den and infrared physiotherm room. Blue Lines Roofing Ltd with 25 years of specialist project experience chose Hambleside Danelaw’s Dry Fix mortarless GRP Valley Troughs in conjunction with Center Parcs technical services because they complemented the Treehouses’ design and décor perfectly. John Boucher, managing director at Blue Lines, said: “We have been using Hambleside Danelaw’s products for 25 years. With their GRP valley troughs, you are getting good quality at a reasonable price.” Hambleside Danelaw’s Dry Fix mortarless GRP Valley Trough creates a neat close-cut appearance on new build and refurbishment projects. It is ideal for complex jobs. Available in standard lead grey colour, the unique product cuts fixing time by up to 50%.
032
ISSUE 5 2012
GRP valley troughs provide the following advantages over lead products: • up to half the cost of traditional lead installation • semi-skilled fitting procedure • pre-formed profiles are light in weight and easy to handle • 30 year guarantee • BBA approved • does not streak or stain slates or tiles • can be safely used with other products to recycle rainwater • no value to the thief. • avoids health issues relating to the incorrect handling of lead. Hambleside Danelaw is the UK market leader for GRP flashing products, which includes the Dry Fix (mortarless) brand and Stormforce 225 mortar fix GRP flashings for roof and abutment wall applications. Other products include GRP Dry Verges, Dry Soakers, Dry Fix Bonding Gutters and RollOut Ridge and Hip Systems. Full technical support is provided. Production methods used within the UK manufacturing processes meet the criteria of the Carbon Trust for energy efficiency. www.hambleside-danelaw.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 35
THE BOOK/ROOFS
Dallmer Renova Roof Drain - Ideal For Retrofit When re-roofing, a major problem is often the removal of existing roof drains before installing new ones and connecting them inside the building to existing drain-pipes. Dallmer’s Renova 63T Roof Drain is a product that completely overcomes this problem and therefore reduces dramatically the overall cost of roof renovation. RenovaDrain is specifically designed to push down through the existing drain and inside the existing drainpipe, creating a watertight seal via the lip-seals on the down pipe of the drain. This well conceived design is made with the precision for which the Dallmer name is respected throughout world – thousands are in use in Europe and the USA. RenovaDrain has recently been upgraded with improved, dedicated versions for use with bitumen felt – ‘DallBit’ - and TPO membranes. A version for welding to PVC remains plus the ‘standard’ version for EPDM – or any other membrane. Improvements include extended length (up to 460mm from roof level) to cater for ever thicker layers of insulation and a dome grating with a greater free area to avoid the problem of possible clogging by roof-blown rubbish. The Dallmer 84 version is smaller but just as easy to fit and is widely used where additional insulation is not being laid or remedial work with a flat grate on paved terraces. www.dallmer.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 36
Kemper System Is Top Of The Class For Liquid Waterproofing Kemper System’s ‘Stratex’ warm roof system was the ideal solution for Castle Contractors when it recently completed the refurbishment of a high school assembly hall roof. Matthew Moss High School in Rochdale had benefitted from a wide ranging internal refurbishment of the school’s main hall as part of an extensive build programme. In order to upgrade the building to Part L building regulation standards the school decided to upgrade the roof too. The Kemper System solution was chosen for its performance, speed of installation and the 25 year BBA certified expected working life of the Kemperol waterproofing membrane. Castle Contractors began by preparing the original felt roof and then bonding 120mm tongue & groove Kempertherm insulation board directly onto the existing waterproofing. The insulation was then primed using Kemper System’s Kemperol ‘D’ Primer and, once the primer had cured, the team was able to apply the Kemperol V210 waterproofing. Kemperol liquid waterproofing is laid in a single process saturating a reinforcement fleece which cannot delaminate and cures to form a seamless, hard wearing, elastomeric membrane. The Kempertherm insulation board successfully enhanced the building’s thermal performance in line with current Part L requirements to achieve a u-value of 0.18W/m2K. www.kempersystem.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 37
ISSUE 5 2012
033
THE BOOK/ROOFS
Yeoman Rainguard Fitted To Iconic Worthing Pier
ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 38
...but no other rainwater system has one quite like it. Rainline’s carbon footprint is significantly lower than many rainwater systems on the market, making it the ideal choice when sustainability is a key requirement.
ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 39
A+ Rating for Cold Applied Liquid Roofing
At the end of its natural life, Rainline can be recycled further underpinning its carbon footprint and whole life costing credentials.
The LRWA (Liquid Roofing and Waterproofing Association) is once again leading the liquid waterproofing industry forwards as it worked closely with the BRE to develop a generic Ecopoint rating for three types of liquid waterproofing – polyurethanes, PMMA’s and polyesters. Liquid waterproofing is the fastest growing sector in the flat roofing industry, and therefore it is critical that specifiers have the comprehensive information they need in order to appropriately specify what can be highly sustainable waterproofing systems. The Green Guide to Specification uses Life Cycle Assessment to provide environmental ratings for building products. These ‘Ecopoints’ contribute towards a building element’s overall BREEAM rating, which can be from A+ to E. The results of the LRWA’s programme of work with BRE show that liquid roofing systems can typically help achieve the highest A+ rating. www.lrwa.org.uk www.bre.co.uk/greenguide
rainline sustainable rainwater systems in steel
ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 40
Combined with high performance and competitive pricing Rainline is one of the most effective solutions for the control of rain drainage on all types of buildings. Rainline’s polyester coated galvanised steel construction offers minimal thermal movement and UV stability. It will not crack, fade, blister or peel, is highly resistant to corrosion and virtually maintenance free. Available in 10 standard high build polyester colours the finish of which is guaranteed for 15 years Rainline is also available in natural copper and Aluzinc.
Lindab Ltd Building Products Division, Shenstone Trading Estate, Halesowen, West Midlands B63 3XB
Telephone: +44 121 585 2780 • Fax: +44 121 585 2782 Email: buildingproducts.sales@lindab.co.uk • www.lindab.co.uk 034
Yeoman Rainguard, the market leader in rainwater systems, has been fitted to Worthing Pier as part of a major external improvement project carried out by the main contractor, Full Metal Jacket. Yeoman Rainguard supplied the contractor with special Cast Iron products – 210 x 150mm MOG Cast Iron Gutter and 150 x 100mm cast iron pipe, supplied ready for them to paint in their choice of colour. Paul Rawlinson, managing director of Full Metal Jacket, said: “We were very pleased with the service we received from Yeoman Rainguard.” www.rainguard.co.uk
ISSUE 5 2012
THE BOOK/ROOFS
Zinc Focal Point For Hurlingham Club The Hurlingham Club’s new outdoor pool and buildings have replaced facilities which were over eighty years old. They have been integrated sensitively into the picturesque landscaped grounds and are said to draw on the rhythm and scale of the original buildings with materials, proportions, details and accessories in a similar pitched roof timber-framed style. The lido building roof is lifted clear of the changing room façade allowing daylight to permeate the interior through clerestory windows. A distinctive, undulating standing seam system in preweathered VM Quartz-zinc® has been used to create the illusion of hulls of upturned boats. The series of elegant, metal-clad vaults ‘float’ at a constant height providing a focal point above blue-painted clapboard changing room walls and white cubicle doors. The design is by Olympic water polo arena architect David Morley Architects’ and involved construction of a new children’s pool, café, remote water treatment store and pavilion as well as improvement works to hard and soft landscaping. VM Zinc standing seam systems can be used on pitches of 3° or more in widths from 60 600 mm. They are ideal for use on timber, concrete or metal decks and can be specified in a compact, warm roof build-up. This system, VM Zinc Plus®, enables the standing seam to be installed without underside ventilation on either cellular glass (Foamglas®), mineral wool or PIR insulation. It is BBA certified, with 0.7 mm thick panels available in either straight or curved profile in zinc’s natural finish as well as pre-weathered Quartz-zinc® (mid-grey), Anthra-zinc® (black), green, blue and red. Sheets up to 13 metres in length are installed without use of penetrating fastenings on pitches up to 60°. Using Foamglas, VM Zinc Plus can be used in conditions of extreme humidity such as swimming pools, where chemicals can cause damage as they evaporate. Other projects in which it has been used include Eric Parry Architects’ design of a rooftop spa at the Four Seasons Hotel in Park Lane where an additional floor with a distinctive zinc pitched roof was built over the existing flat roof. For vented zinc standing seam systems on boards, a 40mm air gap is provided beneath the boards. Pitches of up to 90° can be accommodated, with a breather membrane installed on the cold side of the insulation and a vapour control layer on the warm side. Standing seam horizontal and vertical panel cladding systems are also available together with interlocking, overlapping and composite multi-layer panels. www.vmzinc.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 41
ISSUE 5 2012
035
THE BOOK/ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL
BSRIA WI5 Monitoring For Barratt’s Hanham Hall Project The Hanham Hall development by Barratt Homes on the outskirts of Bristol has created great interest nationwide for its potential contribution to and, perhaps even more important, its long term monitoring of domestic energy efficiency. Barratt’s is determined that its homes should be practical and affordable to run, coinciding with the goal of creating a situation where tried and tested energy efficiency can be replicated elsewhere in time to meet the anticipated Zero Carbon Building Regulations in 2016. In addition to a total refurbishment of the Grade II Listed Hall itself, the Hanham Hall development will consist of a deliberately varied selection of over 180 one, two, three, four and five bedroomed homes. It is set in twelve acres of open landscape with an area of green space running through the heart of the estate and will be a truly pleasant environment in addition to its importance to the Construction Industry. The first houses are already nearing completion and an official opening of the show-home area is expected within the next month. The project’s importance however will not end with the completion of the housing for of equal value will be the constant monitoring of energy efficiency in an unobtrusive manner that will in no way interfere with the daily life of residents. It is here that the Wi5 wireless monitoring systems supplied by BSRIA Instrument Solutions will
036
ISSUE 5 2012
prove invaluable. Barratt Homes has ordered a total of 185 Wi5 systems from BSRIA for Hanham Hall. They will undertake a monitoring period of three years commencing as each dwelling is completed and inhabited. Each home will be checked for utilities consumption – gas, electricity and water – and in addition a random selection of houses will be monitored for internal environmental living conditions. These include temperature, humidity and Carbon Dioxide (CO2) emissions as well as the energy used for hot water, the quantity of water used domestically from rainwater harvesting and photovoltaic generation sold into the Grid. The data collated over the monitoring period will be invaluable in assessing the development’s total energy efficiency and also the accuracy of energy predictions for the project. BSRIA Instrument Solutions supply of effective and affordable testing equipment to the construction industry for sale, hire or operation by BSRIA’s own staff is a service that becomes ever more essential as Building Regulations criteria become increasingly stringent. The wireless Wi5 kits supplied to Barrett for Hanham Hall are typically suited to the task in hand, fully supplying the information required via equipment that is easily concealed and designed to be largely unnoticed by the householders being monitored. www.bis.fm ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 42
THE BOOK/ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL
New Addition To Xpelair’s Carbonlite Commercial Range
New Brochure Shows Heat Pump Value To Community Heating Schemes
Following the success of the recently launched GX EC3 range, Xpelair Ventilation Solutions is expanding its Carbonlite range with the addition of the GX12 EC3 – the first 12 inch Carbonlite commercial fan in Xpelair’s product portfolio. The GX12 EC3, features improved styling for greater aesthetic appeal and is designed to be one of the most efficient fans on the market. It reduces energy output and keeps running costs low through its ultra efficient long life EC motor, which is available with variable speed control when used with MS2/ MS3 controllers. The range includes thermo actuated backdraught shutters to protect against noise ingress and heat loss. www.xpelair.co.uk
Mitsubishi Electric has launched a new brochure to show the value that the Ecodan® range of air source heat pumps can bring to community heating schemes and how they can help such buildings achieve renewable energy targets. The Ecodan range is designed to deliver effective, low carbon, low maintenance solutions to help solve the legislative and social economic challenges faced by owners and occupants of these buildings. Ecodan units can work individually or together to offer both centralised and standalone heating solutions which address the needs of both high and low rise community heating schemes. The system can deliver direct hot water through heat interface units, stored cylinder hot water or just heating, making it extremely flexible. www.heating.mitsubishielectric.co.uk
ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 43
ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 44
Duct Products Makes Giant Steps In Visitor Centre Ventilation
Pellet Power For The Average Home Green savvy homeowners can now take advantage of cost-effective and compact pellet power thanks to the latest boiler to be introduced by biomass solutions providers, Euroheat. The K10 automatic pellet-firing boiler is part of the extensive HDG range, and offers outputs of 3-9.9kW, 10kW – 26kW which means it is the ideal choice for the average-sized family home. The K-series offers two types of wood pellet fuelling: manual feed from locally stored pellets or automatic refuelling from the hopper via a vacuum transfer system. Simple to install, the K series is compatible with common UK heat distribution systems, such as ‘S’ or ‘Y’ plan. www.euroheat.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 46
Duct Products, the heating and ventilation suppliers of Newtownards, County Down, has supplied three bespoke air-handling units (AHUs) to provide conditioned air to the recently opened visitor centre at the world famous Giant’s Causeway in Antrim. Duct Products are now part of the Elta Group, with the integration of Duct Products extending the capabilities of the Group’s existing business in Eire with the acquisition of the Northern Ireland based company. The new building has achieved a certificated BREEAM assessment rating of ‘Excellent’ under the world’s leading design and assessment method which sets the standard for best practice in sustainable building design, construction and operation. To achieve this level of environmental performance, the centre not only utilises things such as recycled aggregates within its construction but also includes innovative underground systems for its cooling and heating. The units supplied by Duct Products play an important and integral role. www.eltagroup.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 45
Wilo Flags Up Vital Pump Changes It's the start of the end of an era for uncontrolled glandless circulation pumps – the uncontrolled, often elderly small circulators that drive millions of heating systems in UK homes. From 1 January 2013, once the supply on the merchants’ shelves has been exhausted, old design, uncontrolled small circulating pumps will be banned from the market in the UK with only high efficiency small circulators allowed to be sold and installed. Whenever a stand alone pump is replaced it will have to be replaced with a new high efficiency pump in its place. Leading pump specialist Wilo UK has a full range of high-efficiency glandless pumps ready to respond to the requirements of the new Directive. Installers, architects and specifers that use Wilo pumps will not need to bother with the details of the new regulations - the Wilo-Yonos PICO and Wilo-Stratos PICO series for domestic properties and the Wilo-Stratos series for larger properties are already labelled "ErP-ready". www.wilo.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 47
ISSUE 5 2012
037
THE BOOK/ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL
The Source For Mill House Heating? ‘Water Of Course!’ Says ISO Energy There has been a watermill in Farnham, Surrey for many centuries although the present building is comparatively recent. Consequently when the present owner decided to embrace renewable energy in a big way the use of water as a heat source proved a powerful attraction. An intriguing blend of ancient and modern systems was selected with an Archimedes Screw, a basic design over two thousand years old, used as a hydroelectric source and the very latest heat pump technology utilised for hot water and central heating in the Mill House and the delightful and ancient granary outbuilding nearby. For the design and installation of the hot water heating system the owners called on ISO Energy, a wholly independent company with great experience of renewable energy systems of all types. With a fast flowing ‘leat’ where the Screw is situated leading into the mill stream directly in front of the house, ISO Energy’s Justin Broadbent selected ground water sourcing as the basis for the system especially as water/water operation delivers the most transfer of heat. The agreed design consists of a submersible river heat exchanger tailor-made for the project and consisting of five stainless steel plates with approximately 15.2 sq.m. heat transfer placed just upstream of the Archimedes Screw. The residual heat in the water is stored in a non-freezing vegetable based glycol mixture which is then passed to the Viessmann 30kW heat pump system. The system used is an exceptionally quiet and compact unit and has at its heart a powerful and energy efficient compressor that rapidly squeezes up the liquid’s heat, extracts it and passes it to a buffer tank at a temperature suitable for providing heating and hot water to both buildings.
038
ISSUE 5 2012
Since the input of electrical power needed to fuel the heat pumps will be met from the hydroelectric output of the Screw, the water heating system is self-sufficient and free. The whole project, Archimedes Screw and Viessmann heat pumps, is integrated not only to supply the total energy needs of the Mill House by non-fossil fuelling, but also to deposit a substantial electrical input to the National Grid. The benefit from this is that the owner of the house qualifies for the Feed in Tariff, in the same way that solar photovoltaic panels can generate a payment by both generating electricity at a tariff of 41.3p/kWhr, depending on the type and size of the system used to generate renewable energy and through exporting electricity at a tariff of 3p/kWh when you export any surplus back to the grid.The system is also extremely carbon efficient, helping with Government efforts to meet ambitious emission targets. Every aspect of eco-friendliness has been built into the project and indeed the choice of the Archimedes Screw as a power source was partly motivated by the fact that it offers safe and easy passage for fish. The Mill scheme that combines practicality and cost efficiency with positive visual impact and the greenest of green credentials is of the greatest credit to the owner and his professional advisers and installers. www.isoenergy.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 48
THE BOOK/ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL
Johnson & Starley’s Gencair HPT Heat Pump Range Available Johnson & Starley’s Gencair HPT air to water heat pumps have marked the company’s entry into the renewable market. They have been developed for comfort heating when integrated within traditional residential heating systems. They convert latent energy from outside air into high-grade heat that can be used for domestic heating and hot water. Maximum COP of 4 certified by TUV A7 –W35, the 5kW – 13kW range has dual temperature operation for maximum efficiency with temperatures of up to 55º C for domestic hot water and up to 50º C for space heating. The heat pumps are operational in temperatures from -15º C to +43º C. Robustly built and tested (EU Class A – EN14511) and M.C.S approved, these compact heat pumps are designed as one piece, fully refrigerant charged units so that the installer does not require a refrigerant handling certificate. Intelligent control of water temperature is provided and operational sound levels are low. A system control interface module with wiring centre is also available to simplify installation and permit a range of control regimes. www.johnsonandstarley.co.uk
AET Aids Latvian Bank Award Win AET’s Flexible Space underfloor air-conditioning system has helped the Alojas Biznesa Centrs, home to the central office of Finland’s Nordea Bank in Riga, secure the highest rating in two categories of a Governmentbacked competition to find the most energy efficient buildings in Latvia. As part of a f20 million refurbishment project prior to the competition, sustainable solutions provider, AET, supplied the Nordea Bank building with its Flexible Space Underfloor Air Conditioning System for optimum low energy performance, temperature comfort and control. Contractors, JSC LNC Industries (formerly known as BCC Company), specified AET’s Flexible Space System to deliver energy efficient heating and cooling from beneath a raised access floor covering 8,000m2 of the building. www.flexiblespace.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 50
ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 49
New Condensate Traps From Dallmer The latest products to be introduced to the UK market by Dallmer Ltd. is a range of Condensate Traps specifically designed to drain the condensed water created by air conditioners, chiller cabinets, dehumidifiers and other heating and cooling appliances. The new trap range utilises the STOP technology developed by parent company Dallmer GmbH that is already proving very popular in mainland Europe since it prevents foul air infiltration even in the absence of condensate water by use of a ball valve cut-off. The new Dallmer Condensate Traps, manufactured in polypropylene and conforming to DIN 19541, consist of two models, the 138 and the 136 although the latter has a further variant, the 136.3. The 138 is a built-in trap that can be recessed or wall mounted and has a drain body and inspection cover housing a transparent trap cartridge to allow simple inspection of the condensed water if present and the cut-off action of the otherwise floating ball if the trap is dry. The horizontally mounted 136 trap is swivel jointed to allow flexible fitting and has a cleaning eye/ tray and a 1.1/4” back-nut on the inlet tube and the 136.3 is similarly designed but for vertical fitment. There is also a swivel-jointed Dallmer 136.2 trap already on the market, in this case with a transparent inlet tube that may be filled via a built-in hose connector in case of water deficiency. All Condensate Traps are suitable for positive or negative pressure up to 2800 Pascals. www.dallmer.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 51
ISSUE 5 2012
039
THE BOOK/ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL
The Sound Of Silence Architectural journalist Gideon Sykes examines a Danish solution to acoustic problems which is widely finding acceptance from UK specifiers. It is a well-known fact that people respond better in peace and quiet. This is particularly true of schoolchildren, and well-documented by research, that their ability to learn is directly influenced by less noise. One of the most cost effective solutions adopted by European architects, and now available in the UK, are 100% natural Troldtekt acoustic tiles and panels. Manufactured for many years in Denmark, they are widely specified throughout Europe to improve acoustics and indoor climates in many types of building - such as schools, swimming baths, public buildings and commercial premises. Not only are these panels cost effective but they are exceptionally sound absorbing, easy to maintain, very durable and have low lifecycle costs.
important factor when designing large interior recreation areas, sports halls and workshops. These are reasons which prompted Schmidt-Hammer-Lassen architects to specify Troldtekt acoustic panels on some of the ceilings of the City of Westminster College. With a floor area of 24,000sqm, the College has adopted new teaching and learning methods. The sound of silence is equally important where the public shop, eat and relax. Hedonism Wines is a new drinks boutique which recently opened in the heart of London’s upmarket Mayfair. The stunning interior ambience is achieved through a masterly combination of clever display, subtle lighting and an inspired choice of building materials and finishes. The ceiling solution was to use Troldtekt ultrafine panels, in 2400 x 600mm format, to create a very attractive surface which complements and helps tie the whole interior together.
The solution in practice Particularly interesting is the contribution Troldtekt panels are making to Passivhaus design. For example, they have been recently specified
by Architype architects for two Passivhaus schools in Wolverhampton. A major contribution to the comfort of pupils and staff is the installation of Troldtekt ceilings in the classrooms and sports hall. These not only offer high performance sound absorption in the study areas which need to be quiet, calm and healthy but also in the play areas which are traditionally very noisy. Architype director Jonathan Hines commented, ‘Oakmeadow is one of two schools we have designed using Passivhaus principles to offer radically low energy consumption together with optimised comfort for children and staff. We are convinced that designing to an energy target is the most logical and effective route to achieving carbon reductions. Troldtekt acoustic ceilings are one of the solutions which have helped to meet our design and performance objectives - in this case optimising the acoustic environment using a natural and beautiful product.’ Noise is also going to be an issue where students are having fun or learning practical skills. Therefore sound absorption is a very
040
ISSUE 5 2012
The product Troldtekt panels are made from 100% natural wood fibres mixed with cement. This is why their sustainability was recently recognised with certification at Silver level within the Cradle to Cradle concept. Their benefits include high sound absorption, high durability, natural breathability, low cost life cycle performance and sustainability. The panels are available in a high number of combinations which vary according to surface structure, edge, installation system, colour, dimension and thickness. Available in various sizes and in three grades from ultrafine to coarse, they can be left untreated or painted in virtually any RAL colour. Important new performance options include integral lighting and audio speakers, fully detailed in two new brochures. A wealth of different case studies and projects can be seen on www.troldtekt.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 52
ICON Manufacturer: York Handmade Brick Company Product: Bespoke Bricks Visit: www.yorkhandmade.co.uk
THE BOOK/DOORS, WINDOWS & GLAZING
Technal Curtain Walling For Spectacular New Leisure Complex In France A new sustainable leisure complex in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of France is showcasing a range of façade options created using Technal’s GeodeMX aluminium curtain walling suite. The Balneoludique de Gruissan swimming pool and spa complex is a 2,000sqm scheme located in a spectacular marine environment. The new facility is designed by architects Chabanne & Partners to blend into the surrounding beach and pine forest and to offer protection from the prevailing north east winds. It has created a series of intimate leisure spaces for the building users split into three zones – sport, relaxation and wellness. The glazing is designed to provide panoramic views of the stunning landscape. Technal’s Geode-MX Trame Verticale faceted system and Geode-MX Visible Grid curtain walling, together with its aluminium casement windows and exterior doors, enhance the visual appeal of the building and have helped to create a transparent façade. The faceted glazing forms undulating concave and convex walls. The curtain walling also varies in height between 4.6m and 6.2m and without the need for visually obtrusive intermediate structural supports.
042
ISSUE 5 2012
The glazing systems are ideally suited to the facility’s environment where natural light is so important, as is protection from the sea. The aluminium frames are powder coated for resistance to salt water, chlorine and corrosion and are low maintenance, making them ideal for a coastal site and a swimming pool facility. The façade is also integrated with 100sqm of solar panels that generate renewable energy to provide hot water for the building. The curtain walling for the south and south east elevations features solar control glazing that allows light penetration of 70 per cent whilst ensuring optimal energy management. In winter, the façade system reduces heat loss and in summer, it prevents over heating. A U-value for the façade of 1.4W/m2.K was successfully achieved. The aluminium windows and doors were inserted into a concrete wall on the north elevation, which provides additional insulation for the building. Technal’s Geode-MX curtain walling suite offers the widest choice of aesthetic options from a single grid system and includes low to high rise, visible grid, faceted, structural, acoustic, beaded and sloped glazing. Each variation uses
THE BOOK/DOORS, WINDOWS & GLAZING
the same transom and mullion grid, giving architects and contractors the opportunity to alter the appearance of the building envelope, with all the specification and construction benefits of one fully integrated system. The Geode-MX Trame curtain walling option gives specifiers the additional flexibility to accentuate the vertical or horizontal profiles with projecting caps, and uses specially designed flush gaskets to reduce the sight lines of the corresponding sections for a distinctive effect across the faรงade. The system can accommodate 6mm to 32mm glazing and can be supplied with a 32mm to 42mm infill for applications where additional acoustic performance is required. Geode-MX will achieve low U values and enhanced thermal efficiency in accordance with the most stringent Building Regulations, and provides consistent sight lines and interfaces, design flexibility and ease of installation to reduce time on site. www.technal.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 53
ISSUE 5 2012
043
THE BOOK/DOORS, WINDOWS & GLAZING
Link2_Layout 1 11/01/2012 10:22 Page 1
Broaden your horizons.
A wide range of rooflight solutions to suit any lifestyle and environment.
Glazing Vision is the UK’s leading manufacturer of innovative glass rooflight solutions. From Fixed, Hinged and Sliding Rooflights to Bespoke Designs Glazing Vision aim to lighten your environment and improve your lifestyle. To arrange a visit or for a brochure call us now on 0333 8000 881. Buy Online at www.glazingvision.co.uk STOCK ROOFLIGHTS DELIVERED WITHIN 48 HOURS! ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 54
Smart Launch VS600 Vertical Sliding Window The VS600 vertical sliding window is a brand new innovation to the Smart product range. VS600 incorporates the traditional styling of sash windows with the advantages of modern thermal aluminium profile. A traditional sash window that may be used in heritage and conservation areas where Georgian and Victorian architecture is predominate. The ease of operation and excellent natural ventilation rates means that VS600 is also suited to high occupancy buildings. The window offers a flush opening with no projection into or out of the building. As well as the vertical sliding sash, VS600 features a ‘tilt in’ operation that facilitates the cleaning of the external glass. The system features low line glazing gasket that will accept 28mm sealed units. The system can achieve overall U Values of 1.6W/m²K and a W.E.R. B rating. VS600 windows also feature concealed drainage and a concealed coupling option. www.smartystems.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 55
Four Star Montaigne Hotel & Spa Choose Vicaima Portaro® The four star Montaigne Hotel & Spa in Cannes has chosen Vicaima Portaro® doors for the refurbishment of their hotel which comprises 96 bedrooms, reception rooms, spa, restaurant and offices. The Montaigne Hotel & Spa has Portaro® connecting doors between rooms with FD30 fire resistance and soundproofing up to 32 decibels, all with veneered finishes of natural maple. Bathrooms doors slide to optimize use of available space. The hotel chose Portaro® Connect for its entrance doors. These integrate door and frame with a computerized fire control system. Customized with different veneers, doors from Vicaima’s Exclusive 5 collection have been used with aluminum inlays and CPL in Wenge finish, which provide a perfect visual balance. In shades of Oak Portaro® Connect also forms part of the entrance to the Spa and plant room areas, which require high levels of security and control. Fire protection is provided in various zones of the building with FD30 Portaro®, which has been used for emergency exits, hallways and restaurants, in single doors or pairs, with or without glazing. www.vicaima.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 56
Flushglaze with PV Walk on Flushglaze Circular Flushglaze Cells
044
ISSUE 5 2012
Multipart Flushglaze
THE BOOK/DOORS, WINDOWS & GLAZING
Does Your Fire Door Supplier Have Third Party Accreditation For Both Manufacture And Installation? All clients in the social housing sector know that there has been a significant shift since the Fire Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 with more and more onus being placed on clients themselves to specify safely. That means partnering with suppliers who have third party accreditations to provide independent assurance to architects, specifiers, enforcing authorities and building owners that all doors involved in their schemes meet the technical and regulatory requirements. As a leader in these products for social housing and new build, Nationwide Windows and Doors has both BM TRADA Q-Mark Approved Fire Door Manufacturer and Installer status. Chris Costall, Health, Safety & Environmental Manager comments: “There are several critical processes from point of Fire Door specification to their installation in homes and workplaces. Some companies are approved to manufacture the doors, but then what happens? Often, the same high levels are not matched when it comes to the companies actually fitting the doors, and this can be a crucial break point in what should be a water tight process. Fortunately however, it’s one that we bridge thanks to our vertically integrated status as third party accredited Q-Mark approved manufacturers and installers of fire doors. Under the Q-Mark scheme, clients can rest assured that approved manufacturers and installers like our company have committed themselves to a rigourous certification programme ensuring that passive protection products like fire doors achieve their aim of protecting lives and property. As an example, during a recent audit which we passed with no non-conformities, our FD30S fire doors were put under scrutiny to ensure BS 476 Part 22: 1987 fire resistance, BS 476 Part 31.1: 1983 for smoke, while our assembly and installation were all tested to BS 8214:2008. And for even more peace of mind, every fire rated door set manufactured and installed by Nationwide Windows and Doors under the BM TRADA scheme will be plugged for ease of identification. Can you say the same about your fire door manufacturers and installers?” www.nationwidewindows.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 57
Alumen Bi-Fold Doors Help Create Extra Space More people than ever are looking to extend or improve their homes to provide extra space for growing families or ageing relatives in a difficult housing market. And, with a large percentage of UK workers now based at home, an extra room is fast becoming a highly sought after commodity. Specialist aluminium door and window fabricator Alumen has seen a massive growth in the popularity of aluminium bi-fold and sliding doors as a seamless way of adjoining a home to a conservatory, ‘chill out zone’, granny flat or orangery; or of allowing that all important natural light into a garden room office. There is a wide choice of solutions available for any specification, with both Schueco and SMART bi-folding door systems on offer from Alumen. You can take your pick from the highly popular SMART Visofold 1000 and Visoglide systems; or well established Schueco range of bi-folding sliding doors – Alumen is one of only a select number of UK fabricators able to offer this. With adjustable jambs and ultra slim sightlines, the Schueco Ass70FD is a great seller. The latest polyamide thermal barrier technology which creates a thermal transmittance barrier between the cold outside and the warm inside is also available on the sliding patio doors. Those looking at high end orangeries and garden rooms will need to ensure that the aesthetics of the doors match the quality of the project, so Alumen’s retail-focused showroom is available for you to see the door options for themselves. www.alumen.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 58
ISSUE 5 2012
045
THE BOOK/DOORS, WINDOWS & GLAZING
Hรถrmann - Working To Your Design As market leaders in both garage and industrial doors, Hรถrmann has the technical expertise to provide the right solution whatever the project. When it comes to style and design, both up-and-over and sectional garage door frames are available to clad in a material and finish of your choice. This way, doors can be created to blend in with the building style and design or simply become a design feature in their own right. The steel upand-over frame is fully welded for strength, pre-drilled and then galvanised and coated in high-grade polyester primer. The design allows the frame to be either completely hidden or used as the door edges to become part of the desired look. With space saving, insulated, weather-sealed sectional garage doors established as the standard across Europe, Hรถrmann has now developed an aluminium sectional door frame that can also be clad to suit your requirements. Based on the proven ALR industrial door, this is especially stable and designed for reliable long term operation. With demand for timber doors on the increase, Hรถrmann offer an additional bespoke service for sectional doors. Working from your outline design Hรถrmann will create the technical drawings for approval before manufacturing the unique door in either Hemlock or Nordic Pine. www.hormann.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 59
046
ISSUE 5 2012
THE BOOK/DOORS, WINDOWS & GLAZING
Praise For Style - Flexible Partitioning From Style Gives Church A New Lease Of Life Delivering functional space that can quickly be adapted to the changing needs of this vibrant local community, Trinity Methodist Church in Ellesmere Port benefits from a sliding DORMA Moveo Glass partitioning system from Style. Separating the cafe and bookshop area, which is also used as an ‘activity space’, the double glazed, 6mm toughened glass gives a modern look to this beautiful building whilst creating an acoustic barrier of 43db. Maximising the use of natural light and space, Style recommended incorporating electronically operated integral blinds into the individual panels, creating private areas for separate functions to run concurrently. Working with main contractor, Whitfield & Brown (Developments) Ltd and architect, Bradshaw Gass & Hope LLP, Style was appointed to deliver flexibility to the interior of this significant refurbishment project allowing a number of activities and events to be hosted alongside each other without losing the essential open space for larger gatherings. www.style-partitions.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 60
ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 61
ISSUE 5 2012
047
THE BOOK/DOORS, WINDOWS & GLAZING
CWCT Success For Smart’s MC600 Smart Architectural Aluminium has announced their new MC 600 curtain wall system has successfully passed CWCT testing on the first attempt. The system achieved test results of Air: 600pa, Water: 600pa and Wind: 2400pa. MC600 is a new curtain wall system capable of providing impressive, practical & economic glazed facades as a solution for both small and large scale multi-storey commercial buildings and ground floor treatment. The system has been designed with efficient fabrication in mind. MC600 benefits from an interchangeable transom/mullion profiles that allow fabricators to utilise the same section for both purposes whilst achieving consistent sight lines. MC600 is assembled on-site by a stick build system and can incorporate Smart window and door inserts. www.smartystems.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 62
Pioneering Joint Project Brings Sustainability Savings Residents of Selby, West Yorkshire, look forward to a future of state-of-the-art healthcare, thanks to a joint project between the NHS and Selby District Council to deliver a new combined community hospital and civic centre. Significant sustainability measures were taken into account throughout the project including aluminium systems from Reynaers, natural ventilation, a combined heat and power unit and photovoltaic cells on the roof. Collectively these helped secure a BREEAM Excellent rating for the building. This move has meant that not only are each now able to offer better facilities, sharing many of the amenities, but their combined running and maintenance costs are also significantly lower. Fabricators on the project were Topside who assembled and installed the Reynaers Aluminium systems. Reynaers Eco 50 and Eco 75 windows and doors were used throughout the project combining stylish aesthetic design with ease of installation. Being highly efficient, the systems meet the latest thermal insulation requirements, and so contribute significantly towards making reductions to the overall running costs. With the requirement to keep areas of the building as light and airy as possible, a glazed facade was incorporated into the design with Reynaers high performance, sustainable CW50 curtain walling ideally suited and complementing the surrounding structure. www.reynaers.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 63
048
ISSUE 5 2012
THE BOOK/DOORS, WINDOWS & GLAZING
SAS International’s System 8000 is ‘Highly Commended’ in AIS Best Practice Awards
TORMAX Moves To New Offices With Plans For Further Growth
SAS International’s System 8000 partitioning has received a ‘Highly Commended’ in this year’s AIS Best Practice Awards. Gaining a ‘Highly Commended’ in the Awards category for Product Innovation, SAS International’s System 8000 partitioning solution has once again been shown to be leading the field in its market sector. System 8000 allows seamless integration with glass into drywall, as well as with suspended ceiling systems. To overcome the design challenge of blending glass with drywall partitions, System 8000 creates a fully integrated appearance using a range of aluminium pocket drywall trims enabling glass elevations to flow into solid with ease. The Association of Interior Specialists’ Awards recognise outstanding innovation in the commercial interiors industry and the winners were announced on November 13, 2012. The Awards were judged by a panel of experts appointed by the AIS. www.sasintgroup.com
With an eye on future growth TORMAX UK Ltd, has moved into new premises that offer scope for office expansion as well as much needed additional warehousing facilities. “Demand for DDA compliant automatic entrance systems continues to expand,” explains MD, Simon Roberts. “With systems manufactured at our hi-tech headquarters in Switzerland we need more storage at our Surrey offices.” Taking the business onto the next level, Mark Willars has been appointed Business Development Manager with plans to increase the base of customers with nationwide requirements. Mark Willars has plenty of expertise having sold a successful company in the UK in 2004 to buy an air conditioning business in the Whitsundays, Australia. Within a short time, the turnover was doubled and a thriving business established. www.tormax.co.uk
ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 64
ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 65
Comar 7P.i Folding Sliding Door System (FSD)
A Unique Offering From VEKA And Force 8 VEKA fabricator Force 8 is offering a comprehensive range of Composite French Doors for its customers, the only one of its kind on the market. The manufacturer's range of sturdy and stylish French doors are much like its range of composite front doors; coming complete with secure multipoint locking systems and heavy duty materials that are incredibly durable and resistant to intruders. The VEKA frame won't warp or twist in heat, ensuring the door will remain in perfect condition. Force 8 has now produced a new 52 page brochure showcasing their product range. Available in two different versions; the original version branded the ‘The Force 8 Composite Collection’ and also a new one, branded as ‘The Ultimate Collection’, for customers who want to use their own branding. www.force8.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 67
Comar Architectural Aluminium Systems have launched their thermally broken Comar 7P.i Folding Sliding Door (FSD). Comar 7P.i FSD provides a versatile moveable wall that allows space and light into any project. Even in the winter months the glazed facade offers light as well as keeping the building insulated through the trade-marked Comar 7P.i thermal break technology. By merging aesthetically pleasing features such as robust, yet slim, aluminium profiles with feature-laden operational gearing from the Comar 7P.i FSD system, you have the capability to design open-in or open-out stacking doors, folding and sliding from the top or the bottom rollers. To cater for different apertures the Comar 7P.i FSD offers from 2 to 8 sliding doors in either direction with an optional rebated door for day to day ease of entry. Due to the trade-marked P.i thermal efficiency U-values are well below the required Building Regulations targets. The doors and jamb are both adjustable to enable long-term smooth operation and to adapt to different building tolerances. www.comar-alu.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 66
GEZE UK Publishes Overview Of Door Closer Systems GEZE UK has launched a new technical brochure, dedicated to its door closer systems. Designed to provide architectural ironmongers and specifiers with a concise overview of GEZE UK’s door closers and floor springs, the new brochure includes detailed explanations of the many variants and options available, as well as stylish reference photos from projects around the world, technical diagrams and specification information. User-friendly product comparison charts have also been included, making specification quicker and easier, ensuring the right product is chosen for each application. Managing director Andrew Hall said: “This guide will make decision making even easier by giving our customers all the figures and details they need to select the most functional and effective product each time.” www.geze.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 68
ISSUE 5 2012
049
THE BOOK/INTERIORS
ArmourFX Welcomed At Comfort Inn And Comfort Suites Armourcoat’s new modular decorative panel system, ArmourFX, has been specified in America as a welcome wall backdrop as part of the ‘Your First Impression’ brand programme for Comfort Inn and Comfort Suites. The Choice Hotels International brand programme takes the hotel guest's first impression to a new level, including a new signature front desk experience at each of the 2,000 franchised Comfort locations in the USA. The front desk will feature a redesigned welcome wall incorporating a reception desk with a stone panel with soft integrated lighting. Armourcoat, working closely with the design team at Choice Hotels International, developed a custom-made panel using specialist textured plaster techniques to emulate natural travertine stone. A raised brand logo and welcoming candle lighting complete the effect. www.armourfx.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 69
Great Expectations For Yeoman Shield As part of a £1m refurbishment of a maternity unit carried out by main contractor E Manton, Yeoman Shield wall and door protection has been supplied and fitted into the new Midwife Led Unit (MLU) at New Cross Hospital, Wolverhampton. Corridors of the unit have been fitted with Yeoman Shield ‘FalmoutEx’ wall sheet along with 200mm Protection Rail and Strip. Other products installed include door frame protection and kickplates. www.yeomanshield.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 70
New Look Web Site For Beko
Latest Laminate Collection Goes On Parade ABET LAMINATI has introduced the Parade Collection, created by Giulio Iacchetti. This is an innovative and quirky range of 12 digitally printed laminate decors each available in three colour shades. Parade is made up of two major groups of decors. One comes from the study of six different units developed through a strong digital approach. The other is the result of freehand drawings subsequently scanned and processed in order to complete the graphics of the entire laminate panel. The six digital-age inspired decors are entitled ‘The Moduli family’ and include Tartan, Fishbone, Rockets, Paesemio, Knock-Out and Artichoke while the ‘Fatto A Mano family’ include Furrows, Betulla, Yayoi, Massaua, Derby and Canvas. The versatile and unique Parade Collection has been realised using ABET’s digital printing technology. www.abetuk.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 72
050
ISSUE 5 2012
To coincide with the launch of its latest TV advert, Beko plc has updated its UK website featuring easier navigation and an integrated look and feel with the brand’s on-going marketing initiatives. The new look has been designed with both new and existing customers in mind, to ensure that they can quickly navigate to the product information or page they are seeking. The cleaner layout features clear visual clues such as product imagery to guide consumers through the site. In addition to product specifications and information for existing customers, the website will host the brand’s latest news as well as videos of current ad campaigns and advice to help consumers choose their perfect appliance. www.beko.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 71
Marble By Design From COMPAC COMPAC have been able to create ‘technological marble’- an engineered stone composite which has the look and feel of natural marble but with properties that eradicate many of the problems associated with it. Containing up to 96% natural marble mixed with resins, COMPAC’s technological marble has a hardness that is similar to marble but its resistance to impact and breakage is much greater owing to its enhanced flexibility. It has a consistent, uniform appearance and can be fitted to large surfaces without breaks or differences in colour tone being noticeable. Like natural stone, COMPAC’s technological marble can also be polished, thus maintaining its shine and original appearance for much longer. It can be used on kitchen and bathroom floors, walls, vanity tops, building façades, staircases and on high footfall surfaces. www.compac.es ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 73
THE BOOK/INTERIORS
Howe Green’s Tree Pit Covers Keep The Wintergarden Growing Greener Bluewater’s new social dining experience at The Wintergarden is open for business. Featuring different seating areas created with an intelligent blend of materials, colours and finishes, the contemporary new dining space designed by Leslie Jones incorporates seven ornamental trees to add to the aesthetics and help bring a touch of the outside in. Howe Green, leading manufacturer of access cover solutions, designed and supplied made-to measure-tree pit covers in stainless steel for the project. These bespoke panels and frames facilitate access to the root chamber and make for straightforward maintenance of the highly valuable trees. They also enable the 4,000m2 area of Limestone and Travertine flooring in The Wintergarden to continue uninterrupted to within just millimetres of the tree trunks for a seamless and monolithic effect. Made from 304-grade stainless steel, each was manufactured to individual size specifications to fit with the tile grid, accommodate light fittings and the tree pit void underneath. Resistant to rust and corrosion, they are also double sealed to prevent moisture or dirt ingress, helping to further protect the tree and keep soil free from contamination. Howe Green is a customer-focused company and many of their existing access covers have been developed as the result of a request for a solution to a particular access problem or situation. Tree pit covers were originally developed to answer such a need but have since been specified for many prestigious interior and exterior landscape projects including One Hyde Park and Heathrow’s T5. www.howegreen.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 74
Howe Green Has The Wintergarden Covered UK manufacturer Howe Green has supplied its high quality 5000 and 7500 Series stainless steel access covers for The Wintergarden, Bluewater’s newly re-designed food village. Having undergone a multi-million pound redevelopment, The Wintergarden re-opened to shoppers this month with a new 3,900 sq ft restaurant served by seven big brand food concessions and providing the centre with 50 per cent more covers. The Howe Green access panels give The Wintergarden an easy and reliable method of accessing the essential building services that supply the new contemporary dining spaces and food preparation areas. Specialist flooring contractor DMC Group carried out the 4,000m2 tiling programme and fitted 20 Howe Green covers using a combination of light duty 5000 Series and heavier duty 7500 Series stainless steel access covers in single and multipart configurations. For an excellent aesthetic finish, they inlaid the access cover frames with Travertine and Limestone tiles to match the surrounding flooring. Designed to sit perfectly flush, the covers pose no trip hazard and are industry proven to withstand heavy foot traffic. 7500 Series covers can also accommodate a load bearing of up to 5 tonne pneumatic tyre wheel loads, ideal where cars and light delivery vehicles need passage. They are resistant to rust and corrosion and double sealed to prevent water ingress and dirt trapping and provide a more hygienic solution with the added peace of mind of trouble-free maintenance and a cleaner floor. A hinged HSE 75 access cover with gas springs and internal and external release latches was also installed above a machine room in one of the main approaches to the concessions. www.howegreen.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 75
ISSUE 5 2012
051
THE BOOK/INTERIORS
Recycled Glass Worktop Is Perfect Partner For eco-Perch According to the national press, tree houses are currently in vogue, with hotels, leisure parks, stately homes, private estates and celebrities choosing to invest in timber treetop and lodge constructions. Even the downturn in the housing market hasn’t diminished demand, as householders boost the value of their properties by building a tree house in the garden. Their popularity is attributed to a growing interest in environment issues, especially sustainable living, and a desire to be at one with nature, many tree houses being designed specifically for adults.
Granite Transformations’ has pioneered the use of post-consumer recycled material in the construction of its worktops and parent company, the Trend Group, focuses on sustainability in the manufacturing process, gaining ISO 14001 environmental management accreditation. Developed to meet the demands of the tourism sector for high quality, affordable and sustainable accommodation and designed to comply with the Caravan & Mobile Home Act, eco-Perch is Blue Forest’s first prefabricated tree house unit, which can be sited on the ground or perched amongst the treetops. The highly insulated and double-glazed timber construction is equipped with low voltage LED lighting, wall-mounted flat screen TV and DVD, efficient A-rated LPD or electric water heating, and an L-shaped worktop and breakfast bar, with integrated fridge, sink unit, gas hob and oven. The ‘Dream Green’ Granite Transformations recycled glass material chosen for the kitchen surfaces has excellent environmental credentials, being made from used beer, wine and mineral water bottles, and it offers outstanding resistance to the knocks, spills, cuts, heat and day-to-day wear that the ecoPerch cooking and dining area is likely to experience. The tough yet extremely lightweight and flexible surface could also be contoured and fitted around the radiused breakfast bar, complete with a decorative edge strip, and the large sheet sizes enabled a virtually seamless countertop, with minimal joins.
Blue Forest is an award-winning company that specialises in the development of inspirational and sustainable wooden buildings, based on a lengthy heritage of designing luxury tree houses for residential and commercial clients. It provides exclusive accommodation for the hotel and leisure sector, supplying such clients as the 5-star Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa, Centre Parcs, Thomson Holidays, Scott Dunn travel specialists and von Essen luxury country house hotels. When it launched its prefabricated modular 4-bed tree house, eco-Perch, at this year’s Grand Designs show, it chose Granite Transformations’ recycled glass agglomerate material for the inbuilt kitchen worktop and breakfast bar, in an appropriate shade of green. This seems to be a good fit, since Blue Forest is renowned as a specialist in eco-friendly tree house construction, using sustainably sourced timber and rainwater harvesting systems. While
052
ISSUE 5 2012
With around 60 different worktop colours to choose from, in glass, quartz or Italian granite finishes and all with a high recycled material content, there are plenty of Granite Transformations options for eco-Perch commercial or private buyers. Blue Forest can install an eco-Perch within three or four days, delivering the timber clad and framed building in four modular parts. Having fabricated the worktop and breakfast bar counter off-site, Granite Transformations fitters can carry out their installation in just half a day, working in the customer’s newly-assembled eco-Perch or at the Blue Forest factory. Either way, there is a 10-year worktop material warranty for added peace of mind. Worktop colours and tree house designs can be viewed online at www.granitetransformations.co.uk and www.blueforest.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 76
THE BOOK/INTERIORS
Introducing Trackit, A New Suspension System From The Shopkit Group TracKit, is an extremely versatile track suspension system providing mobility and flexibility to the presentation of banners and graphics, sliding panels/ room dividers, shelving and clothing displays. Trackit can facilitate different types of elements to be hung at different heights along straight or curved sections of track and repositioned easily and is proving to be a popular display solution for Receptions, Galleries, Retail interiors, Window displays, Home, Hotels and the rest of the Leisure industry. TracKit can be wall or ceiling fixed and is available with a choice of single, twin or triple tracks, enabling the design of multi-track installations, giving displays the potential for depth and innovation. This system offers static and mobile suspension options, via a roller wheel, which allows for easy re-positioning of complex displays and shelving as well as large panels and room dividers etc, by simply sliding the roller wheels along the track. The suspension track is available in both aluminium and stainless steel and there
are six different support methods that can be hung from the track, each with a vast array of accessories and Shopkit can help determine which is most suitable for each application. Made to Measure and Installation options available The dimensions and material finishes of the different suspension systems and accessories can be varied to suit clients’ requirements and Shopkit can deliver and install all elements within this range - quotations will be supplied on request. www.shopkit.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 77
ISSUE 5 2012
053
THE BOOK/STRUCTURES
Yorkon Awarded 1St Contract For Its Revolutionary New Off-Site Building System Yorkon, has been awarded the first contract to be built using its revolutionary new building system. The scheme for Kier Construction will provide three two-storey curriculum wings for a new secondary school in the village of Cambourne in Cambridgeshire. The 7,000 sqm project for Cambridgeshire County Council is the first new secondary school to be constructed in the county for 30 years, and is Yorkon’s second scheme for Kier Construction. Designed by Frank Shaw Associates and due for completion early Summer 2013, the project is embracing modern methods of construction to deliver the new school. The use of off-site construction for the curriculum wings will help to reduce the programme time to just 35 weeks. A cross laminated timber structure will be used for the central core that accommodates the larger communal spaces such as the dining and sports halls and gym. The circulation areas open on to the central mall with no divisions between circulation zones to allow passive surveillance to reduce bullying and anti-social behaviour. The ends of the wings will be punctuated with full height stair towers and a balcony at first floor level serving as an additional outdoor space for each block. This revolutionary system, which has thousands of configurations and permutations, offers the widest range of building modules currently available from any off-site manufacturer in the UK – giving architects, contractors and construction clients the unrivalled design flexibility to meet almost any building footprint. www.yorkon.info/newsystem ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 78
2013 Training Dates For Timber Frame Announced TRADA Technology has unveiled the 2013 dates for its popular timber frame training course. The timber frame training course aim to provide a better overall understanding of timber frame during design, the construction phase and in use. The day-long course is delivered by members of the TRADA Technology frameCHECK team, authors of Timber Frame Construction 5th edition, who regularly attend sites to provide best practice advice, or assist in solving problems. Course content includes: Building Regulations; thermal bridging; air tightness; fire safety; acoustic performance; and cladding. The courses take place at TRADA Technology’s High Wycombe headquarters. The dates are: February 5th; May 15th; September 10th; and November 28th. To book a place, call +44 (0) 1494 569620 or email training@trada.co.uk www.tradatechnology.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 80
New ANCON Type 2, 275mm, Wire Wall Tie - Another Industry ‘First’ ANCON has become the first UK wall tie manufacturer to offer a Type 2 stainless steel wire tie for insulated cavities up to 150mm wide. The new ‘Staifix RT2 275mm’ wall tie has been designed to meet the growing demand for wider insulated wall cavities in multi-storey housing and commercial buildings, as thermal performance requirements continue to increase. It is currently the only Type 2 wire wall tie available for cavity widths between 126mm and 150mm, suitable for buildings up to 15 metres high as standard and taller structures subject to calculation. Ancon’s stainless steel wire ties form part of the company’s low thermal conductivity product range. The new RT2 275mm offers thermal and cost benefits over Type 1 flat ties and Type 3 double-triangle style ties of the same length. With a slender, value-engineered profile, it minimises thermal bridging in masonry cavity walls and is ideal for low energy buildings. Like all Staifix cavity ties, the RT2 has been independently tested at Ceram Building Technology, carries a BBA approval and meets NHBC technical requirements. www.ancon.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 79
Simpson Strong-Tie Launches Media Library DVD Simpson Strong-Tie, has responded to changing business needs by launching a media library DVD, allowing distributors to use its marketing assets for print and online platforms. Available on request, the DVD includes SST’s complete range of product catalogues, covering building connectors, corrosion resistant fixings and chemical anchor systems, as well as animations and videos of product installation and troubleshooting techniques. In a first for the UK connector sector, the DVD also features a library of over 500 high resolution brochure images in jpeg format, which are ready for use on a variety of platforms. The launch of Simpson Strong-tie’s media library DVD coincides with the launch of its new Youtube channel (youtube.com/strongtieuk) and Facebook page (facebook.com/strongtieuk). www.strongtie.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 81
054
ISSUE 5 2012
THE BOOK/STRUCTURES
Foremans Helps Sutton Primary School Meet Increasing Demand For Places – In Just 6 Weeks Demographic changes and rising birth rates across the UK have resulted in a huge increase in the demand for primary school places. As a result, many schools are turning to modular construction as a solution to expand or redevelop primary teaching accommodation. In Sutton, the Ofsted ‘outstanding’ Avenue Primary School needs to increase its capacity by around 30 per cent, from 682 to 892 pupils by 2016 to meet the growing demand for reception places. In order to accommodate an additional 88 pupils for the 2012/13 academic year in the first phase in its expansion, and to provide interim classrooms for the next four years while other buildings on the site are refurbished and redeveloped, Foremans Relocatable Building Systems has supplied two teaching blocks at the school. Foremans had to deliver the buildings to a very tight timescale – just six weeks from receipt of order – in time for the start of the new school year. This was successfully achieved. The buildings were refurbished Portakabin buildings – two double classroom blocks purchased from a school in the North West. They were broken down to their modular components, reassembled and refurbished at the Foremans production centre in East Yorkshire, before being installed at Avenue Primary School. Commenting on the project, Alex Clark, Head Teacher at Avenue Primary School said, “We needed four interim classrooms for the phased expansion of our school. Foremans was actually the only company which could deliver this project in the required timescale. Their approach also appealed to us
because it is more sustainable as the building modules are recycled and refurbished and making it more cost effective. The classrooms are finished to a very high standard and you would never know these buildings aren’t new. We like their size and their robust, permanent feel – they are certainly completely different from the temporary classrooms of old. Foremans made this project very straightforward. It was managed effectively and professionally, delivered to a challenging deadline and provided a solution for our capacity requirements that really worked for us.” Foremans specialises in refurbishing Portakabin buildings. In order to meet individual project requirements and budgets, the buildings can be supplied decorated or fully refurbished with new windows, wall linings, partitions, mechanical and electrical services, doors, flooring, and cladding, to create high quality accommodation for a wide variety of interim and permanent education applications. www.foremansbuildings.info ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 82
ISSUE 5 2012
055
THE BOOK/STRUCTURES
Portakabin Hands Over The First Complete Primary School In England To Be Built Using Modular Construction
056
Portakabin has handed over the first complete primary school in England to be built using modular construction. The scheme for Leeds City Council is also the first project to be constructed using the brand new Portakabin modular building system. The new primary school forms part of Carr Manor Community School which is now one of only two ‘through’ schools in Leeds, taking pupils from the age of 4 to 18. It will ultimately accommodate 210 children, helping to address the rapid growth in demand for primary provision in the area.
and we believe it will help change perceptions about just what Portakabin building solutions can now achieve. This is an exceptional building, constructed to the highest standards, for an outstanding school and a visionary client.”
The £3m purpose-designed building was successfully delivered by Portakabin on time and on budget after only six months on site, in time for the start of the new academic year. It has a bright and contemporary design which reflects the architectural features of the adjacent secondary school, creating a distinctive campus feel for the site. Commenting on the scheme, Kevin Jones, Director and General Manager of Portakabin Sales, said, “The success of this project, its aesthetics and the quality of the finished building have taken modular construction to a new level
Harry Rayat, Operations Manager at Carr Manor Community School, said, “The new school is just fantastic. The modular approach allowed us to achieve a tight deadline for the start of the new academic year when we had to provide additional reception places.”
ISSUE 5 2012
“The new building system has brought significant advancements in the look, feel, sound and floor quality of the building – and has exceeded Building Regulations for thermal performance.”
He added, “We have been very impressed with the speed and quality of construction. Portakabin clearly understands our sector and was very professional throughout. This was a challenging site but their team worked
THE BOOK/STRUCTURES
extremely hard and repeatedly went above and beyond to overcome any unforeseen site issues. This really is a first class building and a credit to the design and delivery teams.” Facilities include seven classrooms each with a sheltered outdoor play space, a sports and dining hall, reception area and foyer, hygiene room with hoist, special educational needs room, catering kitchen, offices, staff room, library, and food and science technology room. Trees have been retained on the site and green areas extended allowing the school to develop outdoor classrooms. The scale and shape of the building features details such as an inclined roof and a palette of colours for the façades that reflect the design of the secondary school. Large picture windows ensure high levels of natural light and allow views over the adjacent field, and opening roof lights naturally ventilate other areas of the building. The new Portakabin building system brought a number of innovations to this project, including: The use of larger 3.75m wide and 16.5m long modules which reduced the number of units by almost half – resulting in fewer vehicle movements to site, less cranage and reduced work on site Fewer internal columns and a flat façade with no visible structural columns A new wall construction which has delivered improved thermal performance and exceeded Building Regulations requirements A more solid and robust feel for the building A greater variety of coloured finishes for the building envelope A wider choice of glazing options, including windows with sills and reveals. The new Portakabin modular building system also now has the benefit of a 30-year structural warranty and fiveyear product warranty, and the widest range of module lengths, widths and heights to suit almost any site, building footprint or configuration. www.portanews.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 83
ISSUE 5 2012
057
THE BOOK/STRUCTURES
Energy Efficient Balcony Renovation Possible With New Schöck Isokorb For energy efficient balcony renovation and refurbishment, the new type R Isokorb® from Schöck offers an extension to the existing range of solutions provided by the type KST Isokorb®. It is the first complete product solution to allow both structural connectivity and thermal efficiency for renovated balconies. The existing type KST thermal break unit is designed primarily for steel-to-steel applications; its adaptable modular design allowing it to become an ’enabling’ thermal connection. The principal being that internally, steel elements are constructed in situ, in the form of a supporting plate bolted to the floor, or a steel T-frame integrated into the building structure. The Isokorb® KST module is then mounted as the load-bearing thermal insulation element and is totally effective for connections involving steel balconies, timber joist floors and masonry walls. The new type R however, works in a structurally different way to the KST and is designed for use with existing reinforced concrete floor slabs. The installation principle being that drill positions are marked with a template on the face of the building. Holes are drilled into the concrete slab, adhesive injected and the type R load-bearing reinforcing rods slipped into position and anchored by means of the pre-injected adhesive. Structural screed is then poured into a special pocket between the type R and the concrete slab, to ensure a perfect contact between the two structural elements. Once the mortar and the screed are cured, the structure is ready for the new balcony to be connected. Of the different type R solutions available, the RKS can be used for free cantilever steel balconies with a reinforced concrete slab, or supported pre-cast concrete slab balconies. The type RQS is designed for supported or suspended steel balconies with reinforced concrete slabs; and the type RQP for supported reinforced concrete balconies with reinforced concrete ceilings. All types are available in different load capacities and heights to suit the existing concrete slab. Type R enables thermally efficient balconies to be added to existing structures – or as a replacement for existing balconies. In the occasional cases of on-site contractor error, it can even be used for remedial work as well. Type R is a readyto-install component for use with steel balconies and for reinforced concrete in existing reinforced concrete slabs over 16cm or 18cm thick (depending on the specific Isokorb® type). Residents can remain in the building during external renovation and there is no damage to internal finishes and decoration. Unlike new build, product selection for renovation is subject to certain restrictions. The solution will very much depend on the specific project requirements, the existing building and its structure – as well as the development of customised design proposals. The Schöck design team is on hand to provide extensive technical support on all these issues, for architects, support structure specialists and contractors. This includes product selection advice for the different options; building physics detail; framework conditions; methods for undertaking a building inventory; dimensioning examples and full check lists. The development of the new Isokorb® type R is Schöck's response to the increasingly stringent energy performance standards affecting the German and European renovation market. In the UK, the argument is that existing housing stock upgrade is vital, because despite an ambitious new build programme, around 70% of all the homes that will exist in forty years time, have been built already. www.schoeck.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 84
058
ISSUE 5 2012
THE BOOK/WALLS
D R Services Introduces Wall Automation D R Services has successfully installed one of the first automatic sliding/ stacking walls in the UK, creating what could be a whole new branch of the construction/ interior design industries. The innovative glazing design company based in Harlow, has been creating sliding stacking walls for about a dozen years, creating some of the most iconic moveable glass walls in shopping centres all over the UK. With the automatic version, the entire divider packs itself into parking bays, or pockets, fitting neatly behind the walls. It looks like there never was a dividing wall there at all. “Typically, the products we are talking about are glass ,” said D R Services director David Jarvis, “Our main feature is single glazed, frameless, toughed, laminated glass with particular interlayers to suit the location. This is a product which is particularly suited to the company, because we have the engineering ability as well as the mechanics of the sliding and stacking walls, which is proven technology.” Of course, even single glazed laminates are quite heavy, yet DRS powers the whole mechanical operation with a 5 amp supply, about the same as you'd use for a model railway! “These panels can be anything up to a third of a tonne but you just move them slower,” said David Jarvis. “We make them as low friction as we humanly can but still ramp up the speed slowly and drive at an appropriate speed. None of these walls will move very quickly because of the safety features. If you want to move them quickly they become a liability.” David continues, “They would stall if anybody got in the way. They're safe now but if you were to drive them quickly you'd need a high power supply and you'd need lots and lots of beams and similar safety devices. These are automated doors or you could say mechanised doors. They are not as the British Standard would describe an automatic door with censors to open and close. You hit a button and they open. You hit another button and they close.” Although the system is brand new, D R Services is already working on two different versions. One has very large and heavy panels moved by a drive
mechanism with buzz bars on the track. Buzz bars are insulated copper shafts with carbon brushes running along them. They are located within the sliding aluminium profile (fixed to the ceiling or the soffit) and create a continuous electrical circuit. The motor is housed in the door. The doors can act intelligently; each can be programmed to perform a unique task, though there is a second system that basically tells each door what to do. “We would select the mechanism that is most appropriate to the particular location,” said David Jarvis. “We have the mechanical engineering skills to physically put all of this together and we also have the electrical engineering skills to interpret and be able to programme doors and walls to suit the locations. If there are problems we are able to understand the problems and get over them rather than bring in specialists. We deal with the entire package.” The first one installed separates a swimming pool and a garden room. It has panels that have six square metres of glass. The building has both Lutron and Crestron home automation systems. As well as the automatic doors, the automation controls the lighting, sounds systems, tv, audio visuals and even the curtains. There are probably 100 control panels in various parts of the building. For those prepared to pay for the wow factor, it is difficult to beat the automatic system. Julie Jarvis pointed out: “We do actually do a simple, low cost system that, for the more normal sort of project budget, can separate off a dining room from a living room with a clear wall, very easily. It can have a sliding system that either folds or stacks to the side and is very affordable in even the normal rebuilding type budget.” www.drservices.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 85
ISSUE 5 2012
059
THE BOOK/WALLS
Carea Cladding Holds The Key To Merchant Square Development 4 Merchant Square East in Paddington is a magnificent addition to the Merchant Square Development but crucial to the design of this distinctive and elegant £87 million residential building is a facade system which includes cladding from leading specialist Carea. Designed by The Kalyvides Partnership, the sixteen storey residential building forms part of the Paddington Basin waterside development and is now a focal point in the area due to its striking and aesthetically pleasing exterior façade, designed to create a visually stimulating building. To achieve the impressive façade, The Kalyvides Partnership specified a number of different materials, including glass, curtain walling and rainscreen cladding, a key ingredient being mineral cladding from Carea. To create the stunning façade specialist contractor Prater, working for main contractor Carillon, were called upon. The challenging project saw them complete the installation of the 9,700 m2 facade which required the management and installation of 20 different products and systems across multiple interfaces – Carea’s Acantha and Artema cladding being two products. The Kalyvides Partnership specified 14mm low pressure Acantha cladding which along with the 16mm Artema created a chequerboard pattern effect. Chosen in white with a smooth finish to create symmetry in the building’s decorative facade, the high quality of each Carea cladding panel creates a stylish finish which met the architect’s vision. ‘The concept for the use of the Carea stone was to form an organising sheer wall component,’ commented Tryfon Kalyvides, Partner at The Kalyvides Partnership. ‘This commenced at ground
060
ISSUE 5 2012
and first levels, progressing as a winding aesthetic system encapsulating the façade elements, rising to the thirteenth floor and then descending vertically to the ground on the east.’ Each of the Acantha and Artema panels were installed by Prater using innovative grooves at the top and bottom edges to create a seamless finish. As well as an efficient secret fix installation process, Carea cladding panels provide several performance benefits and were crucial to the building achieving a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating. Offering a high degree of insulation, they will play a pivotal role in the development’s thermal efficiency, thereby lowering its heating needs and aiding sustainability. Carea panels can be quickly installed to minimise labour costs and are also exceptionally low maintenance. Highly resistant to the climate, they can be easily cleaned to extend their life cycle even further. Their non-porous composition also ensures that they are unaffected by graffiti, again making them ideal for buildings in urban area. Carea panels are available in over 30 different shades and a range of textures. Providing excellent thermal efficiency and eliminating cold bridging – as well as comprising around 95% natural minerals – they are highly sustainable and an ideal choice for contemporary and environmentally conscience construction. www.carea-uk.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 86
THE BOOK/WALLS
Redefining The Design Scope Of Plasterboard Dry lining has traditionally offered little in terms of design sophistication, with curved and similarly complex forms invariably having to be cut into sections on site and fitted to a suitable framework. Traditional methods of bespoke detailing have proved inflexible and costly and designers have long since sought alternatives that can be used within ever tighter refit schedules. For the installer, the opportunity to use plasterboard cut using CNC equipment at last offers the chance to use material which is practical to use and inexpensive. The scope to buy varied shapes in flatpack or ready produced adds further flexibility without compromising the end result. In contrast to shapes which are pre-formed at high cost using materials such as GRG, precision-cut plasterboard from manufacturers such as V-Cut enables details to be made to very tight tolerances. Time saved can be as much as 60% while material cost savings are between 20 and 30%. There is no need for cutting, taping, jointing or trimming beads on site so clean, sharp edges are achieved in far less time. Standard 90° L, as well as U and Z-shaped profiles in a choice of thicknesses and varying angles are now available as standard. Curved profiles are equally straightforward to produce, either by cutting grooves or slots to form the board around column casings or to produce contoured ceilings and walls. Apertures can be cut for vents, cables or pipework while pre-formed board casings can be bonded with adhesive to give them greater strength. An example of what can be created is the interior of the £12.6m Apex City of London Hotel in Temple Court, within London’s Inner Temple conservation area. The design concentrated heavily on achieving what is undeniably a luxurious environment. It has won a raft of awards including a Roses Design Award for 'Best Interior' and a London District Surveyors Award for 'Best Commercial Building'. V-Cut L-shape mitred plasterboard profiles were used to create niches into which beds and TVs were fitted and to provide bulkheads and troughs for concealed lighting. Ivan Hodgson of Tolent Construction commented, “The plasterboard profiles which the dry lining contractors produced were neat and
precise so corner joints were of a consistently high standard. Using V-Cut boards enabled us to achieve a level of detail that would be far more difficult and time consuming using traditional methods.” CNC equipment can cut so finely that the plaster can be removed from a board down to its paper facing. As a result, the variety of shapes that can be produced includes multiple stepped detailing and curves with far tighter folds. Upstands in ceilings, light coves and L-cuts for niches and reveals are among the more frequently produced profiles, but subtle changes in wall thickness can also be achieved. With a section such as a U-shape, the position of cut can be varied to suit any size or angle. For ceiling details, Z-shapes are particularly beneficial in terms of time saving and in general terms requirements specific to individual projects are far more practical to meet. Legislation focussing on the need to reduce waste sent to landfill has put pressure on contractors to look for ways to limit cutting. With framework requirements being far less complex than with moulded profiles, cutting is greatly reduced. V-Cut profiles are also made using industrial bi-products such as recycled paper for facings. Waste on site has effectively been ‘designed out’. Some of the UK’s largest construction projects in recent years, including Heathrow Terminal 5, Wembley Stadium and Westfield White City have seen such plasterboard detailing utilised. The common link to all was pressure on fit-out times and by using standard paper-faced boards, elegant double curves and folding profiles have been created. Acoustic, fire-resistant and impact-resistant boards up to 3 metres long and 25mm thick can be formed in such a way so the diverse nature of interiors, once such a problem for the contractor, need no longer be such a headache. www.vcut.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 87
ISSUE 5 2012
061
THE BOOK/WALLS
Flashing Capability And Functionality An Important Consideration In Severe Weather Cavity Trays Ltd now has flashing options available across its range of approved cavity trays. There are now four BBA flashing materials from which the client may select: Lead, Synthetic, Copper and Aluminium. This extends the clients options pending the adjacent roof type and finish, location and aesthetics. But, Cavity Trays has announced it is not reducing the dimensions of its flashings, despite alternative manufacturers offering trays with flashings that do not match the length of the tray. “Our approved trays are accompanied with a performance undertaking” commented a company spokesperson, “and our Type X tray for gable abutments has high-exposure rating. Adequate flashing laps can be critical especially in locations of variable exposure. We have experimented with varying flashing dimensions but having identified the adequacy of our current flashing dimensions in relation to tray size and flashing interfacing, and do not wish to reduce the intended cover margins. Exposure tests have highlighted the extent by which wind-driven rain can challenge the leading edge of stepped flashings. Penetration behind and beyond the leading stepping edge must be anticipated. By ensuring the relationship between trays (and thus between flashings also) extends sufficiently to arrest wind-driven rain, dampness can be prevented from permeating inwardly below the abutting roof-line. But there are accompanying considerations such as the tail of our flashing being shaped to permit transitory drainage and the flashing/tray union being bonded within a bosem jaw.” www.cavitytrays.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 88
Edenhall Launches Contemporary Brick Collection
Yeoman Shield Set To Brighten Up Interiors Always at the forefront of new ideas and designs, Yeoman Shield, one of the UK’s market leaders in wall and door protection, has launched a new range of Protection Rails, Handrails & Corner Protectors which come with a 20mm wide contrasting coloured strip. Offered in 34 colours, the contra strip can also be used as a directional guide to departments such as X-ray, colour coding areas and flagging up hazardous corners. The contra strip can also be manufactured in specific corporate colours to enhance and compliment company branding within a building. www.yeomanshield.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 90
Edenhall has launched the Contemporary Collection, a striking range of modern facing bricks for creating clean, minimalist elevations and brickwork details. Strong aesthetics and design versatility make it easy for architects to create a unique aesthetic or blend-in with the vernacular. Available in attractive shades from white and cream to grey, blue and green, and in a range of smooth, sand textured and weathered finishes, the bricks are hard to beat on price, competing very favourably against imported clay creams and blues. The bricks focus on the natural colours of carefully selected aggregates and offer excellent colour and weathering characteristics, as well as the technical superiority of concrete which actually hardens with age. www.edenhall.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 89
New Brackets From NVELOPE To eliminate any disruption to a building’s exterior appearance, NVELOPE Rainscreen Systems Ltd has introduced a range of vertical and horizontal cladding support systems which allow façades to be installed with no visible fixing. TThe NV vertical and NH Horizontal brackets are versatile and flexible, both key drivers in façade design and cladding systems. Both the NV and the NH ranges provide a secure fixing solution for façade materials including high pressure laminate (HPL), timber, weatherboard, fibre cement, fibre concrete, ceramic, thin stone, aluminium composite material (ACM) and many other metals. They are available pre-assembled with thermal isolators to help reduce thermal bridging and also prevent a chemical reaction which could occur between the aluminium bracket and the line in a concrete frame. www.nvelope.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 91
062
ISSUE 5 2012
THE BOOK/WALLS
New Creative Techniques Bring Glasgow Streets To Life The creative team at print specialist FotoCeramic, based in Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, has successfully risen to the massive challenge of providing all the tile transfers for a major piece of public art at Glasgow’s Hillhead Subway station – an impressive 12 metre-long mural which has just been unveiled to city travellers. The ambitious artwork was created by the well-known Scottish artist Alasdair Gray and was commissioned by Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) who own and operate the system. The project included fellow artist Nichol Wheatley and his team from Perfect Circle Art developing a pioneering method of working with ceramics to deliver Gray’s artistic vision. “We were delighted to be chosen to supply the tile transfers for this 12m by 2m decorative panel,” commented FotoCeramic’s Howard Quinn. “We worked well with Perfect Circle Art and in terms of both scale and colour this was a job that required very close attention to detail.” Technically challenging, it is thought that this is the first time a work on this scale has been attempted in quite this way. Alasdair Gray attempted something novel in often having complete buildings in his giant artwork cut around as individual tiles. This resulted in a large ceramic jigsaw rather than a standard piece of repeat tiling. In total, the mural took two years to complete and producing the transfers to fit perfectly each hand-cut porcelain tile set new standards in accuracy of fit and consistency of fired colour for digital ceramic technology. It is thought that nobody has ever made digital ceramic transfers on this scale before for application to polished porcelain tiles. www.fotoceramic.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 92
New Cladframe From Rigisystems CladFrame is a cladding/façade support system, which features a unique cladding rail support bracket that has been engineered to provide a universal solution to façades. The design of the bracket makes it inherently stronger than other similar systems, both in carrying capacity and in pullout strength, which enables fewer brackets to be used making the system faster and more economical to install. Two clips at the extremities of the bracket allow for simple positioning of the carrier rails prior to levelling and fixing. Having only one bracket for use either left handed or right handed, and for vertical or horizontal applications, makes designing the whole carrier system simpler, quicker and more cost-effective. CladFrame brackets are made from 3mm thick structural grade aluminium, and, if required, come complete with an integral bonded isolation pad in order to provide a thermal break between the building substructure and the façade system. The isolation pad also prevents any corrosion occurring as a result of interaction between the substructure and the aluminium bracket. The simplicity of the CladFrame system allows it to be used safely with any RigiSystems façades, including Rainscreens, as well as with other manufacturers’ own façade systems. www.rigisystems.org ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 93
ISSUE 5 2012
063
OPINION
www.pyroguard.eu Article By: CGI International Title: Turning Down the Heat Author: Simon Ellison, Technical Manager for the Pyroguard range of fire glass solutions
Simon Ellison, Technical Manager for the Pyroguard range of fire glass solutions from CGI International, debates the importance of specifying integrity with radiation control (EW) fire glass as a minimum in all applications. In the UK, Building Regulation Approved Document B dictates which classification of fire glass should be used in various applications. Approved Document B legislates the use of two classifications of fire glass: integrity only (E) and integrity with insulation (EI), with a significant 064
ISSUE 5 2012
In contrast, throughout much of the EU, the intermediate level of integrity with radiation control (EW) glazing is recognised as offering a cost effective and beneficial middle ground classification. By providing integrity and radiation control, EW glass reduces the passage of heat from the fire source side through to the cold face.
EW for increased safety EW rated glass is increasingly being specified in the UK for projects where higher safety standards are demanded. For example, Pyroguard EW has been installed in a number of care homes where, in spite of integrity only glass being detailed as the minimum regulation requirement, the client has commanded a higher level of performance to offer a safer passage of exit in the event of a fire. One such project is Springhill Care Home in Accrington, where a combination of Pyroguard EW and EI rated glazing from CGI International was specified to deliver an innovative fire glass solution for the safety of residents.
Whilst Approved Document B does not recognise EW rated glass, where legislation is not governing specification and it falls to client preference, EW can be used to protect a building or item from heat without going to the expense of EI.
EW in action As part of an extension to the existing building at Springhill, interior glazing was fitted into split internal screens to form an aesthetic feature. To ensure the highest levels of fire protection,
price and performance differential between the two. As a consequence, where E rated glass does not offer sufficient protection, in some applications the fire glazing requirements are subsequently over specified with an EI product.
OPINION
Springhill aimed to exceed Part B compliance requirements which resulted in Pyroguard EI30 INT (15mm) being specified for the lower half of the screen and Pyroguard EW30 (7mm) for the upper half. Offering integrity with radiation control, Pyroguard EW delivers superior fire protection than can be achieved with E rated products – which would normally be used in upper half split screen applications. One of CGI International’s Pyroguard partners undertook the screen installation over a two week period, which included communal areas such as the lounges and the beauty salons. The brief at Springhill was to achieve the highest levels of fire protection, without over engineering the system.
A hot topic As the example at Springhill demonstrates, developers and clients do not always believe the building regulations will provide the right level of fire protection for their specific requirements. The increased adoption of EW rated products over
entry level E can perhaps be explained by the fact that improved protection can be achieved at only a marginal premium – begging the question why EW is not specified as a minimum in the current building regulations, as it already is in many areas of Western Europe. Ultimately, for applications which demand maximum fire protection, EI rated glass should always be specified. If there is ever any doubt, fire glass solutions specialists such as CGI International can always provide detailed technical support to ensure the correct specification of a product.
Integrity only was therefore not sufficient but using Pyroguard EI for the full screen would have been at a premium cost. As such, Pyroguard EW provided a cost effective solution that delivered the required performance. ISSUE 5 2012
065
OPINION
www.recorduk.co.uk Article By: Record UK Title: Inclusive Entrances Author: Andy Smith
Electronics and computer technology have changed our world almost beyond recognition over the past couple of decades, though arguably they have been of particular benefit to those people suffering some form of physical disability, even more than the wider community. There can, for example be no starker contrast than between the tiny blue ‘disabled carriage’ which the state used to provide, compared to the adaptive vehicles offered nowadays through the Motability scheme. Joystick controls and ‘heads up’ technology developed for military aircraft now enable even the most seriously handicapped to enjoy previously unimagined levels of mobility and self-sufficiency.
of listed building status or a local conservation area - led to a variety of compromise solutions being reached: including the provision of intercom devices outside on the pavement. This is a situation that should never be reached in new-build situations as the combined influence of the DDA, Approved Document M to the Building Regulations, and the more recent Equality Act 2010, set out very clear guidance for architects and the rest of the design team regarding appropriate access provisions. As is the case regarding structural stability and fire safety, building consultants look to the industry’s specialist manufacturers to provide both advice on compliance, as well as the practical solutions in the form of ramps, platform lifts and accessible door systems; as well as other products such as high contrast/braille signage for the visually impaired. As part of a long established European manufacturing group, with vast experience of door automation for the British market, Record UK is regularly called upon to get involved with commercial, retail, leisure and other building contracts – including air, rail and motorway infrastructure projects - at the earliest stages of planning. While straight sliding and curved sliding have proved extremely popular for forming the main entrance to all types of property from railway stations to high class hotels and business premises, there are a number of other options that can be fully inclusive in their mode of use. As well as inward and outward curving doors, circular doors are also popular for creating a striking entrance, and can be combined with a straightsliding one some distance behind, in order to form a draught-lobby which will cut energy loss.
And while motor travel is of enormous importance to the individual, it is in the design of our built environment where the greatest improvements have been made for those members of the population with mobility issues, sensory problems or other specific needs. These changes being driven both by legislation, including the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) and a steadily growing level of social responsibility: particularly amongst large businesses. The ethos of inclusivity and inclusive design is now encapsulated by many companies’ operating policies, with the retail sector and those responsible for our transport hubs leading the way. When the Disability Discrimination Act originally came into force over 10 years ago it was on the high street where much of the attention was focussed on ensuring that everyone, including wheelchair users, had equal access to goods and services. The directive, though, was for ‘reasonable’ adaptation to be made, and for most of the national chains with stores in modern shopping centres, the transition was a fairly straightforward one. For many smaller businesses based in old buildings, or even bank branches in outlying locations, the prospect for providing easy access was far more onerous. Narrow entrances, perhaps reached up a flight of stone steps – all coming under the influence
066
ISSUE 5 2012
Then revolving doors – which would once have been viewed as presenting a barrier to the less able-bodied – have developed dramatically. In fact the larger diameter units, with wings up to six metres in length, offer ample room for wheelchair users. There are even versions where the wings can be ‘parked’, while a central door is utilized; while another alternative seen in many commercial applications is to fit pass doors to one or both sides, potentially with their own automation. The actuators themselves have also been the focus for extensive investment in research and development so that they can now be concealed in relatively slim profiles above the door leafs, or buried in the floor. Then specifiers also have the choice of infra-red or radar detectors and induction loops in the floor amongst other means of identifying when a person is approaching. The over-arching ethos is one of inclusivity, so that no individual should ever feel discriminated against, no matter what makes them different from the perceived norm. And with respect to a building’s main entrance, this is relatively simple to achieve, as contemporary door automation systems will accommodate a fully able-bodied pedestrian, as well as a parent with a push-chair or a wheelchair user in an identical mode of operation.
OPINION
www.ledaire.com Article By: Ledaire Fabrications Title: Safe Ventilation In Commercial Kitchens Author: Steve Leonard, Managing Director
Working in a busy commercial kitchen when emotions and temperatures are both running high is guaranteed to get the adrenalin flowing. But while slaving over a hot stove can produce good results, there are many health and safety risks associated with working in a hot, steamy and grease-laden environment. To deliver good results consistently you need a safe, comfortable working environment – and that requires efficient ventilation to expel fumes and bringing in fresh, clean air. Inadequate ventilation is dangerous. Without it, there is a risk of fire, contamination, vermin infestation and food poisoning. Fresh air is also essential for a healthy environment; kitchens burn a lot of fuel, combustion of which produces large volumes of carbon dioxide. In a poorly ventilated kitchen, CO2 concentrations can quickly reach 1000ppm, above which level people start to suffer headaches, drowsiness and loss of concentration. And of course, incomplete combustion in badly regulated burners will produce poisonous carbon monoxide – with potentially fatal results if those fumes are allowed to accumulate. Not surprisingly, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) regards adequate ventilation as fundamental to achieving control of health and safety risks in the kitchen, as well as general hygiene and food safety. And yet it estimates that as many as 65% of commercial kitchens are not ventilated adequately. The most basic ventilation requirement is the removal of hot air and the provision of clean cool air - and that must be done in a controlled way with a proper balanced ventilation system. HSE Catering Information Sheet No. 10 (Ventilation of Kitchens in Catering Establishments) gives extensive advice on good ventilation practice, advising that removal of stale air and fumes must be balanced by introducing fresh air, which itself must come from clean areas and cause no uncomfortable draughts. It makes sense for hot air, fumes and odours to be removed as close to the source as possible so the bulk of extraction should be via hoods above the cooking appliances. Hoods need to be carefully designed to ensure optimum extraction. The HSE recommends canopy overhangs of 250 to 300mm for island extractors and, for wall-mounted extractors, 250mm at the front and 150mm either side. However, ranges vary and we regularly advise greater overhangs in very hot zones. Systems must also comply with British Standard BS6173:2009, which requires interlocking of mechanical ventilation systems and gas supplies for all types of commercial kitchen appliance, preventing a gas appliance from being switched on before the ventilation system is operating. Besides extracting fumes, ventilation systems need to avoid a build-up of grease in ducting. Prevention of grease accumulation is very important, because if not addressed, it provides a breeding ground for bacteria and insects and also accelerates fires. Many grease filtration options are available, and filter replacement and easy cleaning are key considerations – fire suppression systems can be built into hoods. Filtration is only fully effective in conjunction with regular maintenance and performance can be enhanced with choice of hood type.
A basic hood will extract a given volume of fume-laden air, together with its heat whereas induction hoods partly separate fume extraction from ventilation. They draw in fresh air for high-velocity discharge into the hood, creating a low-pressure zone over the work area which helps to extract fumes via the hood and filters. With an induction hood only 20% of extracted air comes from the kitchen, so energy is conserved, although inducted air can also be used for ventilation as required. Using atmospheric air in this way improves filtration efficiency as the bulk gas temperature is lowered, helping suspended grease condense on filter elements. The components of the system should be designed to avoid areas where fat residues and water can gather. The design should also ensure there is no risk of condensation dripping from the canopy onto the surface below. Stainless steel is the preferred material for both ductwork and canopies, being non-combustible and easy to keep clean. Easy access to grease filters for cleaning and replacement is also essential. When installing new equipment, it's worth making sure that each appliance's required air extraction rates can be obtained. Then by adding up the air velocity requirements for each appliance, a total air movement requirement can be calculated for the hood. The HSE guidelines however, provide some air flow rate estimations for different work capacities. A good balance of incoming and extracted air, together with removal of hot vapours at source, should help prevent kitchens becoming too hot and the replacement air inlets can be positioned to provide cooling air over any hotter work positions. Air induction hoods provide a good long-term energy efficiency measure. They save on electricity bills over the years by using the natural flow of air created by convection within the hood. Induction hoods are the best for filtering grease, which in turn reduces the fire risk. With a good induction hood, all the HSE recommendations can be met in a system that will also save on running costs.
ISSUE 5 2012
067
OPINION
www.nvelope.com Article By: NVELOPE Title: NVELOPE Educates Architects On Cladding Support? Author: Mike Smith, Sales and Marketing Director
068
ISSUE 5 2012
OPINION
Mike Smith, Sales and Marketing Director at the top name in rainscreen cladding support systems, NVELOPE, explains how cladding provides the perfect solution for architects looking to design educational buildings.
system which must be specified correctly to ensure that panels are held in place, provide the desired appearance and meet the relevant thermal bridging requirements set out in the Building Regulations.
Soon after coming into power, the Coalition government abandoned Labour’s Building Schools for the Future (BSF) project. Now, in an attempt to standardise design and cut school building costs by 30% and save up to £6m per school, the Government has banned curved buildings in the education environment. Design templates which place restrictions on room sizes, storey heights and building shapes have been unveiled for 261 secondary and primary school buildings across the country. This development prohibits glazed walls, curves, translucent plastic roofs, indents, dog legs, notches, roof terraces that can be used as play areas and other features that are deemed to be extravagant. These templates require that new buildings should have square corners, be clad in nothing more expensive than render or metal panels above head height and that the ceilings should be left bare. The age of austerity has truly arrived in school building design. Within these limitations, architects are more reliant than ever on the cladding to create an imaginative and inspirational school environment. Cladding can, indeed, help create a fantastic external appearance. However, using cladding imaginatively places demands on the cladding fixing or support
the cladding zone also need to be considered. To help simplify and speed up the design, pricing and product selection process, it is important to take advantage of the design service provided by the fixing supplier. NVELOPE provide an online Project Checklist service. Typically, this kind of service demands a simple two step, data entry process. This requires the inputting of project information on façade type, façade weight, average panel size, building height and storey height, substrate type, fixing method and cladding zone together with elevation and plan AutoCAD drawings. In reply, the architect will receive a quick, precise and reliable response detailing the static calculations and setting out information for the support system, thermal calculations and indicative m2 price.
With this in mind, architects are advised to work with an accredited manufacturer who can offer a wide range of off the shelf products to provide the desired end result. Service support is also significant to save time and ensure accuracy in product specification. Every façade is different, and with so many cladding options available, architects require a level of support which will save them time when designing and pricing the cladding. Local wind loads, façade height, the fixing substrate, and
A final pointer on support systems is to look for an independent verification of quality. The reliability of the cladding installation, and your reputation, is hugely reliant on the quality of the fixings that are used. Every manufacturer will claim high quality but make sure you work with those support systems that are British Board of Agrément certified. Using BBA approved support systems will ensure you can install with confidence. It will demonstrate that the cladding support system has met rigorous testing and evaluation criteria and will provide a high quality fixing solution – and one that you don’t just have to take the manufacturer’s word for.
ISSUE 5 2012
069
OPINION
www.sikaconstruction.co.uk Article By: Sika Limited Title: Resin Floors – A Sustainable Flooring Solution Author: Mark Bushell, National Sales Manager - Property
The development of resin based decorative flooring systems has presented the specifier with a durable and aesthetic alternative to vinyl, carpet or timber but with mounting pressure to incorporate sustainable practices into any building design, does this versatile flooring solution have the environmental performance to match? One of the key ways to measure the sustainability of a product such as resin flooring is through Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), a standardised method which is increasingly being recognised throughout the construction industry as the best way to evaluate the sustainability of products and systems throughout their life cycle. There are a number of factors that contribute to the LCA of resin flooring systems - energy saving production processes, transport, economy of installation, useful life, removal, disposal and recycling – all contribute to the environmental impact of the product. With a ‘Cradle to Grave’ approach LCA investigates the potential environmental impact of a product from raw material extraction through to final disposal at the end of its useful life. The LCA method has been adopted by global building products manufacturer Sika, a major contributor to sustainable construction. Resin flooring in a commercial environment is one
070
ISSUE 5 2012
area where its systems are making the most impact as the environmental impact of the company’s flooring systems such as ComfortFloor is measured through the potential impact of the raw materials used to create the product, the use of the product and the end-of-life phase. Use and end-of-life have the most significant influence on the overall sustainability performance of flooring systems as both the maintenance and refurbishment requirements are considered and this is dependent on the use, exposure and durability of the flooring systems. Sika’s ComfortFloor systems are extremely tough and durable and can have a life expectancy to match and potentially exceed more traditional floor finishes. Its long life expectancy and the ease of maintenance contributes to the major share of the life cycle costs. The carbon footprint is also lower than competitive solutions that might require a damp proof membrane, levelling compounds and adhesives. During use, these flooring systems are classified by the most demanding international standards as Very Low emission flooring solutions. In addition, they can generally be refurbished by overcoating with a lower thickness than applied originally, thereby reducing costs, energy and resources compared with other flooring technologies.
Sika’s flooring systems are designed to fulfil an almost endless combination of functional and aesthetic requirements and meet all industry requirements for mechanical and chemical resistance, impermeability and fire resistance. As an alternative to traditional hard wearing finishes, they can serve any number of specifier demands on a wide range of projects. Joint free and easy to maintain, they are an ideal choice to meet the high aesthetic requirements of commercial and public buildings and can be used in schools, offices, retail, leisure as well as meeting the strict hygiene standards of the healthcare industry. They are also an ideal choice to meet the demands of manufacturing facilities, airports and shopping malls where a durable floor is a must.
OPINION
ISSUE 5 2012
071
OPINION
www.nullifire.com Article By: Nullifire Title: Smoke – Preventing Death Is In The Detail Author: Jeff Dyson
As a result stairwells and spine corridors are normally built from reinforced concrete or have their steelwork protected with intumescent coatings as an alternative to multiple layers of non-combustible boards. But every penetration, from a waste pipe to a light fitting, and even the cabling for the alarm systems, represents a potential weakness in any fire compartment strategy. It is therefore necessary for the services engineers and specialist firestopping contractor to employ fire-proof sealants or gap seals to create linear seals at all vulnerable points. Meanwhile it may also be necessary for these seals to further offer acoustic, air movement or moisture resistance, while also needing to accommodate movement.
A poorly detailed fire stopping installation
Jeff Dyson of Nullifire, advocates the use of accredited systems and installers to ensure properties feature adequate fire stopping measures. Along with pre-completion testing under Part E of the Building Regulations, which evaluates the performance of party walls and floors, the other really onerous check on new properties is the one on air leakage through the envelope. With a large fan unit mounted in the main entrance doorway, the rate at which air escapes through the building fabric is measured in cubic metres per hour, per square metres of surface area. Interestingly, if it should t fail to achieve the required standard, the engineer is likely to conduct a smoke test to discover where exactly the cracks and holes are which have led to the problem. This should be a reminder to architects and other building consultants, of the way that smoke and hot gases, together with flames, can spread through a building; including its cavities and countless interfaces. And this is also the reason why fire precautions - including fire stopping and the use of intumescent systems - are so important to prevent loss of life and to minimize damage to property. Depending on the amount of combustible material which a fire can contact, the temperature rises rapidly, generating pressure and currents that can cause smoke to travel at speeds of between 30 and 120 metres per minute. 80 per cent of fatalities in a fire are due to smoke inhalation and, even where alarms are properly specified and maintained, the rate at which smoke spreads makes escape difficult, as visibility is reduced to just a few metres and panic sets in. Smoke and intumescent seals on internal doors are obviously a key measure, but as we have already remarked, there are many other potential pathways for heat and smoke to breach walls and floors. And it is therefore imperative for design professionals to define and defend zones or compartments within each type of construction. In blocks of flats, offices, public buildings and other workplaces, protecting the escape routes – which often also double as the access for the emergency services - will be a priority. 072
ISSUE 5 2012
As a major manufacturer in the field, Nullifire has available a comprehensive selection of products to close the gaps around service provisions: including coated mineral wool batts, flexible intumescent bags, fire curtains, pipe wraps and pipe collars. The latter, for instance, being able to close up the hole created when a blaze causes a PVC pipe to melt and collapse. A particular challenge often arises where a multiplicity of pipes, power cables and other building services pass through risers or plant room floors. In which case the fire-stopping solution may also be required to support imposed loadings. Structural fire stopping compounds offer the ideal means of completing the floor slab where it has been left open for the installation of services, so that it gains full integrity and is safe for maintenance engineers to access in the future. The B220 and B270 products manufactured by Nullifire require temporary shuttering with boards or even insulation batts while they harden, but are then able to deliver 700 mm and 1800 mm unsupported spanning. No reinforcement bars are required and the resulting 100 mm thick slab can carry uniformly distributed loads of up to 2.5 kN per square metre, and achieve four hours fire protection. With respect to any of these approaches to fire stopping, it is essential that the systems concerned are correctly specified, and that the chosen products carry third party accreditation. Accordingly, the clients and their consultants will also want to work with manufacturers who have a network of fully accredited contractors, thereby guaranteeing the work is done to the highest standards; and that there is no attempt made to break specifications through the substitution of cheaper, inferior products. This is because when a reputable company such as Nullifire makes a recommendation, based on an engineering judgement, it is taking on responsibility for the safety of a building and its occupants, Therefore subsequently going against such recommendations will shirt liability back onto the project team. All manner of building components including doors & windows, board products and ductwork are routinely tested, in isolation, to the standards set by BS 476 in accredited laboratories; but just as important is protecting the entirety of the property and its potential pathways; for the consequences of allowing a building to fail in a real fire situation are all too well documented. Therefore consultants and main contractors striving to ensure developments are built correctly, as well as to protect themselves from any accusation of failing in their statutory responsibilities, should seek to partner with specialist manufacturers offering unquestionable credentials.
OPINION
www.cabotaerogel.com Article By: Stoakes Title: Insulating daylight Author: Christopher Sykes, Architect
Architect Christopher Sykes examines aerogel insulation technology for maximising daylighting while minimising heat loss In the building industry, it is rare to find a product which is unique. Equally, it is unusual to enjoy innovative technology which totally changes design and construction. That’s why LumiraTM aerogel (previously called Nanogel® aerogel) is having such a global impact. Lumira aerogel, the world’s best and lightest insulating solid, is widely used - particularly in the UK, mainland Europe and the US - by many different manufacturers to increase dramatically the insulating value of their many different translucent cladding and rooflighting systems. Daylighting, in the form of windows, glazed walls and rooflights, radically changes building envelope design and the ambience of interiors. It positively influences people, affects how they behave in their environment, changes their circadian rhythm and improves their well-being. In schools, for example, diffused daylighting in particular has a calming effect and marked influence on pupil learning and their behaviour. The reason this insulation technology is so important is because architects and energy-conscious designers can now maximise large areas of daylighting while reducing heat loss. Importantly, well insulated daylighting will reduce energy consumption on heating, air-conditioning and artificial lighting. It means that rooflights can be up to many times more energy efficient as their predecessors. It means that when it is introduced inside the panels of translucent cladding and roofing systems a U value of up to 0.28 W/m2K is possible; this is as energy efficient as a solid wall and four times better than insulating glass units.
projects, to commercial and industrial facilities, such as France’s High Speed Train workshop in Lyon. One unusual example is the attractive polycarbonate application for the egg-chaped chapel attached to a new convent in Belgium, designed by architects Gery Despret and Benoit Gillon. Another extreme example is Halley V1 Research Station in Antarctica. Designed by UK architects Hugh Broughton with Faber Mausell, the central module is lit double-height, east facing cladding supplied by Okalux glass to give a U value of 0.3 – ie maximising and diffusing daylight while minimising energy loss in the most extreme conditions on earth. What is LumiraTM aerogel? Sometimes called “frozen smoke”, Lumira aerogel is a hydrophobic aerogel produced as particles. Each particle consists largely of air, up to 95%, contained in a structure with pore sizes less than the mean free path of air molecules, which severely inhibits heat transfer through the material.
Insulation in practice In the UK, there are systems which offer the option of including Lumira in polycarbonate roof lights and panelised glazing, in fibreglass diffused cladding and roofing and also within conventional double-glazing. A very good example is St George’s Park, the FA’s new National Football Centre and
training ground. Architects RedBox Design Group has designed this dramatic multi-purpose facility, on its 134 hectare site, to focus on coaching and education, including sports science and sports medicine facilities. In the sports hall, the architects have maximised the highest levels of daylight insulation and energy efficiency by incorporating Lumira aerogel within 950sqm of the 2780sqm of Kalwall used on the site.
It dramatically increases thermal insulation, improves acoustics and greatly reduces a building’s lifecycle costs. In addition, the natural light diffusing performance and elimination of glare and hot spots creates a soft, diffused interior light which provides a high comfort level for occupants while reducing the need for artificial lighting. The portfolio of trusted aerogel-insulated systems, in both particle and blanket form, from a host of international partners, provides superior daylighting solutions resulting in significant energy savings without compromising light transmission.
Projects in Europe include retail facilities, such as Carrefour, Tesco and Tegelmann’s climate market in Germany, through schools, leisure and healthcare ISSUE 5 2012
073
THE BOOK/PROJECTS
Non-Com Exterior Fire Protection For Wolverhampton School The design of Wolverhampton’s newest school, South Wolverhampton and Bilston Academy, includes the extensive use of external Siberian larch cladding protected with Lonza Wood Protection’s Non-Com Exterior fire retardant. The facade of the new academy building is made up of 50,000 linear metres of Siberian larch provided by Berkshire-based BCL Timber Projects. As well as providing an attractive facade, this wooden rainscreen cladding protects the building against water damage and traps a layer of air as additional thermal insulation. The timber is protected with Lonza’s Non-Com Exterior fire retardant, which provides a proven and highly effective Euroclass B surface spread of flame protection, without affecting the external appearance of the wood. Non-Com Exterior is a polymer-based formulation applied by vacuum-pressure impregnation, and timber treated with it can then be used with or without additional coatings. The £25 million school, part of Wolverhampton’s Building Schools for the Future Programme, opened in September this year. South Wolverhampton and Bilston Academy has been designed by Capita Architecture and will house 1200 pupils in four themed ‘skill zones’, with an engineering hub, lecture theatre, science ‘super lab’, training kitchen, drama and music studios, and classrooms, seminar rooms and other spaces. www.lonza.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 94
Neaco Balustrade Attracts Another Retail Specification At Asda Store Neaco’s Spectrum balustrade system has been specified for another retail development following its installation at Asda’s new store in Sheffield. Stainless steel Spectrum was used externally on a stairway and first floor gallery with Neaco’s Techek aluminium grillage as balustrade infill. The store was designed by Aedas Architects and is the second major Asda development to feature Neaco’s products. Neaco’s national sales manager, Richard Richardson-Derry, commented: “Our Spectrum balustrade system has been a very popular specification in the retail sector. Its maintenance-free durability provides a lasting aesthetic and is ideal for high-traffic external areas like the Asda store in Sheffield. Spectrum was also selected in a nylon coated white finish for an internal stairwell and mezzanine floor at Asda’s Monk’s Cross store near York.” Requiring no welding for assembly, Spectrum’s versatile modular system has the capacity to meet virtually any design permutation or installation requirement. Its wide range of design options includes offset glass infill, offset top rails with multi-rails or glass, and a choice of tapered or straight flat-bar stanchions. Spectrum’s selection of infills includes vertical or horizontal rails, mesh, aluminium grille panels, perforated panels and toughened glass panels. The system is available in satin polished stainless steel or aluminium nylon powder coated in a wide range of solid or metallic colours. www.neaco.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 95
074
ISSUE 5 2012
THE BOOK/PROJECTS
Green School Chooses Howe Green Howe Green’s 7500 Series access covers provided St Bernadette’s Primary in Antonshill, near Stenhousemuir with an easy and reliable solution to accessing essential under-floor building services. The energy-efficient building design was the work of Falkirk Council Architects with the construction delivered by Kier Scotland. Featuring solar-paneled water heating, recycled newspaper insulation and many other green initiatives, the new school is set to meet BREEAM’s Very Good sustainability objectives. A glass-roofed central atrium spanning 85 metres in length forms the backbone of the building. Providing a versatile activity space, it also serves to maximize the natural use of light and its raised floor houses the school’s sprinkler network, hot and cold water supplies and electric and data cabling. Council architects needed an easy and reliable solution to accessing these essential services for the lifetime of the building and Howe Green’s 7500 Series aluminium access covers were chosen because of their excellent quality and the firm’s reputation for first class service support. A. Andrews & Sons installed 79 of Howe Green’s aluminium access panels to cover a continuous run of 75 metres of floor space with additional multipart units also fitted onto adjoining legs. Capable of tolerating heavy pedestrian traffic, the access covers are designed to be in-filled with a floor finish to match the surrounding area, which in this case was an industrial grade carpet. For optimal hygiene, the covers are double sealed to ensure that no dirt or grease can penetrate them and they are also resistant to rust and corrosion. Offered in a range of sizes to meet the needs of different applications, 7500 Series panels have a standard depth of 75mm with a minimal show-edge for a seamless look. Fire rated covers are also available in line with BS476:Part 20 1987 and Howe Green manufactures bespoke sizes to order with no additional lead times required or price premiums to pay. St Bernadette’s cost £7.1m in total and the new school serves over 10,000 households in the Larbert, Stenhousemuir, Torwood, Carron and Carronshore areas. It opened its doors for the first time this term providing the area with a progressive learning environment for up to 217 primary and 80 nursery children. www.howegreen.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 96
ISSUE 5 2012
075
THE BOOK/PROJECTS
Hochiki Europe Takes To The Sea On Ex-Dutch Navy Ship Having been moored in the fishing town of Urk for several years, The Castor’s glory days as one of the Dutch Navy’s premier vessels were a distant memory and the 46m long, 8.5m wide ship was a shadow of its former self. Once the pride of the Dutch shipbuilding industry, it was in a state of complete disrepair – a rusting hulk that served as a home to a group of squatters. That was until 2007 when a group of maritime enthusiasts led by Mario van Parijs joined forces with the sole intention of restoring the ship. The Castor was taken to the Rijnhaven in Rotterdam and a restoration project began in earnest. Fast forward to early 2011 and as a result of the gargantuan efforts of a team of sponsors and volunteers, the vessel had been transformed to its original state. After being approached by AF-X Fire Solutions, which had furnished the ship’s engine room with fire extinguishers, Fire Products & Solutions Netherlands (FSN), one of the country’s leading providers of life safety equipment, was asked to contribute its expertise and configure a suitable fire detection system. Ruud Benjamins, FSN’s manager, explains, ‘We agreed to supply, design, commission and help with the installation of a system for The Castor based on Hochiki Europe’s market leading range of products.’ The design that FSN came up with was based on Hochiki’s innovative Enhanced Systems Protocol (ESP). ESP is a total communications solution for intelligent and integrated fire detection and provides the flexibility and expansion to accommodate simple addressable variants through to sophisticated integrated building management and safety systems. For obvious reasons devices from the company’s range of marine approved products were chosen. Stuart Davies, marketing manager at Hochiki Europe, comments, ‘Our marine approved products have an enhanced IP rating and are designed to offer the best levels of environmental protection. Only products that have been approved for marine use by a recognised marine approvals body should be used for this type of application.’ Hochiki's ESP analogue addressable marine approved range has Lloyd’s Register approval, and the products have been tested and approved to the 076
ISSUE 5 2012
Marine Equipment Directive (MED) standard by Germanischer Lloyd (GL). The Castor’s fire detection system comprises a range of smoke and heat detectors along with manual call points configured around a Kentec control panel. Benjamins says, ‘We installed a total of 40 ALG-ENM optical smoke sensors which feature the Hochiki’s High Performance Chamber Technology. This chamber design minimises the differences in sensitivity experienced in flaming and smouldering fires and the result is a high performance optical chamber that is equally responsive to all smoke types and helps to reduce the possibility of unwanted alarms.’ Five ACB-EM marine approved multi-heat detectors were installed in the galley and food preparation areas. These products incorporate a variable temperature heat element and a rate of rise heat element, both of which are controlled from the control panel, allowing either thermal element or both elements simultaneously to be active in making the fire decision. These were complemented by a total of eight HCP-EM marine approved manual break glass call points, which are operated by pressing an EN54 compliant plastic element that produces a high level ESP interrupt, allowing the control panel to respond very quickly. The installation went very smoothly and FSN’s experts were on hand to assist the volunteers wherever possible. Asked what proved to be the biggest challenge, Benjamins replies, ‘The ship is made of iron and steel, so drilling holes into thick metal was sometimes tricky and always time consuming. This was the first time we had installed a fire detection system on a ship, so it was a learning curve that necessitated a great deal of patience.’ The installation was completed in December 2011 and this graceful and powerful ship is now available to hire as a unique venue for parties, events and promotions. Even though it is now open for public use, work is ongoing and the fire detection system has been called into action on more than one occasion. www.hochikieurope.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 97
THE BOOK/PROJECTS
Kee Safety Provides A Topfixing Solution In South Africa Kee Safety’s popular fall protection product, KeeGuard® Topfix, has been installed at a new Procter & Gamble manufacturing plant in South Africa which required a roof edge protection system to ensure optimum safety for those carrying out essential work at height. To ensure safe roof access for those working at the plant, the P&G project team decided a collective fall protection system would be the best option. Due to its many benefits, Kee Safety’s KeeGuard®Topfix was specified for the project. KeeGuard®Topfix provides the client with a collective protection system that protects everyone accessing the roof top, requires very little maintenance and no training. The installation of 500m was completed within 7 days. To ensure durability and longevity of this product, KeeGuard® Topfix is available in both galvanised steel and aluminium finish, ensuring high reliability over a long period of time. It also complies with the test requirements of BS EN 14122 part 3 and BS EN 13374 Class A. www.keesafety.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 98
Yeoman Rainguard Adds Finishing Touches To Scottish Isles House Yeoman Rainguard has been hailed as a great success by Richard & Sue Titterington, owners of a recently constructed house on the Scottish Isle of Islay. Richard explained: “We needed a guttering system which would meet the unique requirements of the property (including two semi circles at the front and the back) and would stand up to being exposed to the rigours of the weather and sea salt. Yeoman Rainguard supplied 130 x 100mm DFHR XL Gutters along with 75mm diameter XL rainwater pipe on the straight runs and a GRP Radius Gutter to match the XL profile on the two large radius sections. All products were supplied in Slate Grey to closely match the tiled roof. www.rainguard.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 99
JS Air Curtains Provides Vital Ingredient At Town Hall Hotel
Sika Provide Concrete Solution For Haulage Yard
JS Air Curtains has supplied and installed a stylish, electrically heated Zen air curtain at the luxury, boutique Town Hall Hotel in Bethnall Green, London. It provides a vital ingredient in the dining experience of its restaurant’s clientele by keeping draughts out when the door is open and maintaining a comfortable internal atmosphere. The hotel’s facilities team approached JS Air Curtains when Viajante’s reception staff highlighted that cold draughts were affecting the comfort of both staff and clientele throughout the restaurant and bar area. JS proposed installing a 1.5m air curtain from its Zen designer range because its simple, stylish aesthetics would blend unobtrusively into the restaurant’s interior design. Town Hall Hotel selected standard anodized aluminium covers for their Zen air curtain which can also be fitted with bespoke, stainless steel or wood fascia in a gloss, matt or brushed finish. The central structure is made of zinc plated steel finished in RAL 9913 black forge as standard. www.jsaircurtains.com
When extending their new haulage yard in Cheshire, Rojac (UK) Ltd, the specialist hire and material handling company, were in need of a hard wearing concrete, able to withstand the regular movements of their heavy road vehicles. The concrete surface also needed to withstand mechanical scraping and be able to accommodate heavy point loads. A concrete mix incorporating Sika admixtures and Novomesh 950 synthetic fibres, which when added to the mix eliminated the need for steel mesh, was produced by Hanson Concrete to meet these requirements. This cost effective solution produced a tough, durable concrete slab with increased crack, impact and abrasion resistance, fully able to withstand the rigours of a working haulage yard and any future developments that are being considered for the site. www.sikawatertightconcrete.co.uk
Steadmans has supplied an extensive range of materials for five new livestock buildings at an award-winning Scottish cattle breeder, Netherton Aberdeen Angus. Steadmans’ one stop shop capability saw it supply 3,880 linear metres of AS30 single skin roof panels, lined with Drain Dripstop anti-condensation fleece, and 1,001 linear metres of AS24 Ventair wall cladding. Also supplied were 560 linear metres of AS30 single sheet side-wall cladding and 3,948 linear metres of cold rolled purlins, as well as beams, galvanised gutters, flashings and fixings. The absorbent qualities of the fleece-lined roof panels provide an effective solution to problems caused by condensation. Drain Dripstop prevents this by draining moisture from the underside of the roof to the gutter. AS24 Ventair wall cladding allows increased airflow and prevents gas from livestock accumulating by dispelling it through the louvers on both sides of the sheet. www.steadmans.co.uk
ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 101
ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 102
ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 100
Steadmans Products Supplied For Award-Winning Cattle Breeder
ISSUE 5 2012
077
THE BOOK/PROJECTS
Selectaglaze On Display At Tate Liverpool Tate Liverpool is the home of the national collection of modern and contemporary art in the North of England. Attracting more than 12 million visitors since opening in 1988, Tate Liverpool is one of the most visited UK galleries outside London. The gallery is housed within a five storey Grade I Listed warehouse, converted by architect James Stirling, in the historic Albert Dock on the city’s World Heritage waterfront. Tate Liverpool’s commitment to sustainability has recently seen improvements to the gallery’s conferencing areas on the fourth floor and the fourth floor galleries which host special exhibitions and displays year-round. As part of their brief, Building Surveyors Drivers Jonas Deloitte needed to ensure that the gallery’s environmental conditions were optimised to protect the works of art on display. The large traditional single glazed windows overlooking the docks capture light throughout the day and so offer superb viewing conditions but also need to provide the required environmental conditions for the display of art works. To help find a solution, Drivers Jonas Deloitte consulted with the UK’s leading secondary glazing specialist, Selectaglaze and the company’s local partner, Fenestral. With a wealth of experience within Listed and historic buildings Selectaglaze and Fenestral were uniquely placed to understand the very special nature of Tate Liverpool’s requirements. Following trials the preferred solution was a pair of white powder painted hinged casements arched to follow the window line. With flush hinges, white gaskets and concealed locking the frames provide minimalist lines. Tate Liverpool requested special protection against damaging UV light, which was achieved with 6.8mm clear laminated glass together with an additional specialist UV film. Multipoint locking and high compression seals ensure tight seals and so help maintain temperature and humidity within the gallery. The hinged panels allow easy access for cleaning and maintenance. After a full assessment by Tate Liverpool staff who supervised the process, the work was undertaken outside gallery opening hours and caused no disruption to the art work on display. www.selectaglaze.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 103
078
ISSUE 5 2012
THE BOOK/PROJECTS
Acheson & Glover Create Stunning Landscape Feature For New College Acheson & Glover (A&G), a leading hard landscaping manufacturer, provided design expertise and materials to build a stunning recreational area for students of Selby College in North Yorkshire. A&G worked closely with design and build contractors BAM Construction and Leeds based architects Atkins to create large paved areas and retaining walls for the project. The £35m contract was completed in stages to allow construction of the new college buildings, while the old ones were still being used. A&G's contemporary Boulevard block paving and unique Anchor Diamond retaining wall system was specified for the phased construction. It was essential the paving was consistent in size and colour to allow the phased sections to be seamlessly joined together. The retaining wall system provided the necessary aesthetics, durability, flexibility and cost effectiveness required for the project. www.acheson-glover.com
Planar Does Capital Job For Stelrad In Leafy Herts! Capital Heating was asked by the owners of a brand new six bedroom home in Hertfordshire, to specify the plumbing and heating required for the new property which has an intriguing small plant room of its own alongside the garage. Stelrad Planar radiators were specified and installed. Planar has a flat, smooth surface with elegant, integrated top grilles and side panels that have made it a favourite. Planar is supplied fully assembled for easy installation and comes with a directional air vent. It’s available in a range of four heights and 62 models in the most popular sizes, so it couldn’t be much easier to specify or install. Guaranteed to perform to a maximum working pressure of 8 bar and conforming to BS EN 442 – the European standard for radiators – the Stelrad Planar comes with a 5 year manufacturers warranty as a measure of its all round dependable quality and performance. www.stelrad.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 105
ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 104
RMIG Perforated Solar Shading Keeps The Heat Off French School A distinctive and creative solar shading solution has been manufactured by RMIG to help reduce the risk of building and classroom overheating while improving the comfort for students at the Lycée Polyvalent de Vienne in the Saint Romain en Gal area of France. The perforated metal solar shading forms part of a recent project to restructure and extend the school while incorporating a range of energy efficient and environmentally beneficial initiatives in the overall design. The architects’ vision for the solar shading was to create a unique structure that joins together multiple triangular sections of perforated metal to create a three-dimensional ‘bat-wing’ effect on the front of the building that not only added to its aesthetics, but also provided a highly effective sunscreen. The solution, which was developed in conjunction with the architects and engineered by RMIG, involves 180 sunscreens manufactured from 2mm thick galvanised steel incorporating seven different diameter circular perforations in a special RMIG ‘Cloud’ design layout, which provides an apparently random pattern across the surface of each screen. RMIG developed and tested prototypes to ensure that the final perforation solution and forming processes for each of the 3.6m x 1.1m sunscreens would not only provide effective shading, but also be uncomplicated to install on site. During this process it was found that the sunscreen’s irregular angles prevented the original uniform perforation pattern from being used, as it would not fit perfectly within the triangular panel shapes. As a result, RMIG developed the random pattern solution using seven different sized perforations ranging from 8mm up to 50mm in diameter. www.rmig.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 106
ISSUE 5 2012
079
THE BOOK/PROJECTS
World's Largest Solar Bridge Taking Shape As Blackfriars Installation Reaches Half Way Work to construct the largest solar panel array in London reached half way on 26 July as the 2,200th solar panel was installed on the roof of Blackfriars station in central London. Network Rail is rebuilding the station on top of Blackfriars rail bridge to provide more space for passengers and longer, more frequent trains. The new station roof above the Victorian bridge will be home to 4,400 solar panels, which will generate up to 50% of the station’s energy needs. The solar, manufactured by Panasonic, designed and installed by Solarcentury working with Balfour Beatty and Balfour Beatty Engineering Services (BBES), covers an area of 6,000 m2, making Blackfriars the largest solar bridge in the world. The panels are expected to generate 900,000 kWh of electricity every year, saving over 500 tonnes of CO2 annually. Network Rail senior programme manager for Blackfriars, Paul Byrne, said: “We’ve rebuilt Blackfriars on a 125 year old rail bridge, creating a 21st century, solar-powered station on Victorian foundations. Blackfriars’ iconic location spanning the River Thames makes it a showcase for the potential of solar power, and an important benchmark for Network Rail as we look to make best use of sustainable technology on the rail network. Blackfriars will become fully operational for passengers this month, with
080
ISSUE 5 2012
two new entrances, four new platforms and a new London Underground station in use. We’ll complete work on the bridge, including the installation of solar panels, later in the year.” Frans van den Heuvel CEO of Solarcentury said: “Blackfriars will be one of the World's great solar power installations. Architecturally challenging, the project demonstrates just what is possible with this versatile technology in dense urban areas. We’ve been working amongst one of the most complex build programmes in the country, at height, over water and live train lines. It’s a great feeling to be half way there.” Shigeki Komatsu, director, Panasonic Eco Solution Energy Management (Europe Solar Business Division) said: “Our HIT® solar panels will soon help provide clean, emission free energy to an important London transport hub. Whilst commuters at Blackfriars station might not notice the solar panels, the solar will play an important role in their travel experience every day. We hope this will have a real impact on the way people see green energy, proving it as reliable, unobtrusive and the energy of today.”
THE BOOK/PROJECTS
Bakia Mbianyor, First Capital Connect’s Sustainability Manager, said: “In terms of CO2 emissions, rail travel is already the most sustainable form of mass transport with 0.1Kg of CO2 per passenger mile. The solar panels at Blackfriars will now allow us to reduce our carbon footprint still further, at one of our most important stations in central London.” Over the past four years, Blackfriars station has been rebuilt on top of a Victorian rail bridge. The bridge was stripped to its foundations and reconstructed wider and stronger to house platforms, a 250m-long roof and the world’s largest bridge-based solar array. The work forms part of a wider upgrade of the Thameslink route, running from Bedford to Brighton through central London. First Capital Connect customers on this route will benefit from longer trains and more frequent services, with a metrostyle train every 2.5 minutes through central London during peak times. www.bbsel.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 107
ISSUE 5 2012
081
THE BOOK/PROJECTS
Silence Is Golden For MENCAP A complex acoustic issue at a charity's Sheffield sports hall has been resolved by Total Vibration Solutions using a clever and colourful solution. When Mencap, the charity for those with learning disabilities, raised enough money to refurbish its Sheffield Sports Hall, built 38 years ago, the future for the facility looked bright. But the combination of high ceilings, composite steel roof panels, hard brick walls and wooden floors, meant the noise from every footstep and bouncing ball was still amplified to an uncomfortable level inside the renovated building.
up with the innovative solution that met Mencap’s requirements. A series of highly coloured TVS ABSorb panels were supplied, cut to size and fitted to the walls with Velcro fastenings. The panels, which are impact resistant (tested to DIN 18032-3: 1997), offer Class A performance and have been specially developed for use within sports halls, indoor five-a-side pitches, gyms and event centres. In addition, a number of matching made-to-order TVS ABSorb cubes were strategically suspended from the roof purlins. The cubes provide a unique and attractive way to reduce reverberation levels within a large open space. Both panels and cubes have an absorber core with a textile covering that can be finished in a variety of colours making them ideal for use within Mencap's facility. What's more their lightweight construction allows for fast and easy installation and, when cleaning is required, removal. As a result of the TVS solution, reverberation within the Mencap sports hall in Sheffield has been dramatically reduced and, as a bonus, the colourful panels and cubes have provided an aesthetic interior treatment for users.
What was needed was a speedy, effective and affordable solution to the problem but also one, given the disabilities of the users that was equally attractive and safe. Looking for viable options, Mick Wragg, Acoustic Director of local Sheffield firm Galaxy Insulation and Dry Lining, contacted noise and vibration suppression specialists Total Vibration Solutions (TVS), a North West firm he had worked with successfully in the past. Steve Whitbread from TVS led the team that was called in to investigate the problem and which came 082
ISSUE 5 2012
"Obviously the refurbishment of the original building, which dated back to 1974 and had a leaking roof, poor lighting and heating, took priority when the renovation project first got underway," explained Steve Whitbread of TVS. "However, we were delighted to be asked to come up with a noise suppression solution that has not only significantly reduced the problem but has done so in an attractive, speedy, and innovative way; one that required no major alterations to the structure of the building. “Mencap wants to attract increasing numbers of people to take advantage of the sports hall and this solution is certainly helping them to achieve that goal," he added. www.totalvibrationsolutions.com ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 108
THE BOOK/PROJECTS
Affordable Energy For Edgecote House Unfortunately, the priorities of early 18th century architecture did not include a requirement for energy conservation and the present owners in this age of enlightenment were looking to reduce their carbon footprint, take advantage of the government grants and subsidies available, and reduce reliance on their oil-fired heating by using an energy efficient alternative. As a result isonergy were approached to design a system that would provide more affordable central heating and hot water, not only for Edgcote House itself but also for the five cottages in the grounds nearby. Preliminary thoughts were to use energy from the sun and stored in the ground of the huge grassed areas around the building. Solar energy stored in the ground is a very cost effective energy source, but a first site visit showed the even greater attraction of the lake fed by the River Cherwell that provides a landscape feature just 200 metres from the house. Water is an even more reliable and constant conserver of solar energy than the earth, and a system was conceived involving 2700 metres of 40mm diameter pipe laid in loops across the lake and weighted to keep it at a depth below the surface. Filled with a biodegradable antifreeze solution that absorbs the heat held in the lake water, the pipe pattern circulates the warmed liquid to shore where it passes through a manifold, from here it is transferred to the utility room of the House in a larger 90mm flow and return pipe through a 120mm conduit. It was at this stage period romance became wedded to renewable energy. Preliminary probes to establish the best position for the manifold disclosed the mouth of a forgotten secret passage, believed to link to a priest hole in Edgecote House. Investigations showed the passage to be in surprisingly good condition and able to carry the pipe up to the house, saving considerable excavation work and disturbance to the well- trimmed lawns
that complement the vista over the lake. It is here that the most modern of technology takes over to turn residual energy from the sun into heat suitable to provide spatial heat to the rooms and the energy required for hot water supply by means of heat pumps. A ground source heat pump exchanges the heat captured by the anti-freeze liquid from the water of the lake and transfers it to a refrigerant.The anti-freeze is cooled and return to the pipes in the lake to be recharged. This low temperature refrigerant passes through the heat pump where an electrical compressor compresses the refrigerant gas and raises its temperature. The energy of the high temperature refrigerant is transferred to hot water system for heating. At Edgcote House, three of the new generation of super efficient Viessmann heat pumps, each with an output of 42kW, are employed for the purpose of providing heating and hot water. The first operates to fulfil the hot water requirements of the house and the five cottages, delivering sufficient energy to supply water at a temperature at around 70 degrees Centigrade to a highly insulated 1500 litre capacity hot water tank. The other two pumps, in a master and slave configuration, provide hot water to the radiators of the central heating systems and they feed into a 1,000 litre hot water tank linked to a 1,500 litres buffer tank which promote efficiency of the system. Since the lake-sourced heat pumps work at an efficiency that delivers a heat output of well over four times the electrical energy put into the system to power the heat pumps, the first indications are for an extremely substantial saving of around 70% in fuel costs against the original oil-fired boiler. www.iso.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 109
ISSUE 5 2012
083
THE BOOK/PROJECTS
Timoleon UFCH For Historic City Church St. Andrew Undershaft, once a City of London landmark, but now completely dwarfed by the notorious ‘Gherkin’, is remarkable in several ways. Apart from the extraordinary name [the ‘Undershaft’ refers to a huge Maypole that reputedly towered over the building in the 16th Century], it is one of the very few City churches to survive both the Great Fire of 1666 and German bombing in the Second World War, only to be damaged by the IRA’s attentions in the 1990s. It is now only occasionally used for services but is important to its administrator St. Helen’s Bishopsgate as a venue for meetings, Bible studies, Sunday School and evening functions. As a meeting place it was felt that greater comfort, in particular more effective central heating, had become essential and Forcia Ltd., a company with considerable experience in heritage projects [essential for work in this Grade I Listed building], was appointed to undertake the work. Underfloor heating was the obvious choice for the church to ensure even warmth throughout the huge 330 square metres of floor space in St. Andrew Undershaft and it was decided that use of the FoilBoard system developed and made by Timoleon Limited would make installation simple and swift and ensure that heat provision would be both reliable and effective. Timoleon’s FoilBoard heating system is designed to be laid directly on any reasonably flat surface; ideal for St. Andrew Undershaft since the composition floor was in quite fair condition. The basis for the system is panels manufactured from carbon coated expanded insulation material containing extremely effective pre-bonded soft temper aluminium heat diffusers. The panels include channels for the flexible 15mm polybutylene pipe which will circulate warm water and are held in place on the floor by conventional wooden battens. The expanded insulation material is easily cut to size where necessary and is also sufficiently flexible to accommodate minor undulations in the floor below. When the panels are laid and secured it is the simplest of operations to walk the heating pipe into place from a roll. www.timoleon.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 110
084
ISSUE 5 2012
THE BOOK/PROJECTS
Coloured Façade Sensation At York University A stunning combination of VMZINC QUARTZ-ZINC® and PIGMENTO® vertical interlocking façade panels have been specified by architects BDP in their design of the £80 million University of York campus expansion at Heslington East. BDP was invited to masterplan and design the individual buildings, the cladding inspiration for which was explained by Project Architect Andrew Lees. “Our vision for the design was prompted by the rural surroundings and specifically by the lakeside location. We felt that the elevations should reflect colours which stemmed from flora such as bulrushes. Though we were not initially familiar with the Pigmento colour range we subsequently realised that their subtle shades of grey, green and red would enable us to create a colour palette which was visually analogous to the rhythm of multi-stemmed plants”. Initially the cladding specified was coloured fibrous cement panels. During the detailed design stage, however, the VMZINC system proved to be a more economical solution with the added benefit that installation could take place during winter months. 3-metre long panels in 375mm and 400mm widths were used to suit the structural modules with a continuous 20 mm ventilated air gap behind the boarding of the entire façade. The architects are particularly pleased with the way in which the zinc responds to changing
light conditions and viewing angles of the multi-facetted facades. Andrew Lees added, “A particularly satisfying feature of the zinc is the crisp shadow gap that is achieved between adjacent panels. This gives the skin of the building a textured sophistication and the ability to form a continuous ‘wrap’ around both the straight and curved sections of the façade”. Housed in two wings overlooking the existing lake and embracing a courtyard garden The first phase has undergraduate and postgraduate software laboratories and two more in which the Human-Computer Interaction research group undertakes much of its work. A fully glazed atrium connects the wings at all levels while a glass link leads to the seminar and common room pod which nestles in the centre of the courtyard as a garden pavilion. This organic timber structure acts as a counterpoint to the zinc clad wings that surround it. The last words go to fellow Project Architect Tony Robinson who said, “The VM zinc product was the making of Computer Science and Law and Management Buildings” Elizabeth Heaps, Pro-Vice Chancellor of the University added, “The buildings are absolutely stunning. They are so striking and aesthetically they are just brilliant”. www.vmzinc.co.uk ENQUIRY CARD/ONLINE NO 111
ISSUE 5 2012
085
ICON Manufacturer: Coram Showerpods Product: Showerpods Visit: www.coramshowerpods.co.uk