WELCOME TO XTRABUILD
A warm welccome to Xtrabuild, the digital interactive magazine serving the building specifier and designer. Our aim is to bring to you the most up to date and interesting information, projects, products, thoughts and news in an engaging, informative interactive and attractive way. This edition contains some of the latest project and product information that we've received from contributors. You can click the various icons to either go to the manufacturer's website, to a product page, to see the complete story, or view their entire portfolio of stories at www.xtrabuild.co.uk
You can view photo slideshows at the click of an icon, and we'll also guide you to extra details of particular interest in the story.
You can also visit us at www.xtrabuild.co.uk which contains even more articles and news. We hope that you enjoy this edition of Xtrabuild digital, interactive magazine and welcome any thoughts, suggestions or contributions. Contact james@l2am.co.uk or give us a call - and thanks for reading!
Some of the colour photography used in Xtrabuild is provided and paid for by contributors. The publishers do not accept liability for errors that may appear in the publication. Dedicated to our friend Mike. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the publisher's consent. Published by L2 Architectural Media Ltd, Park House, Stafford ST17 4AL. Tel: 01785 291442 www.L2am.online www.xtrabuild.co.uk
FEATURE
FEATURE
DOORS
PROJECTS
FEATURE - SCHLÜTER-SYSTEMS
THOUGHTS
FEATURE
PHOTO BY PARKSIDE ARCHITECTURAL TILES
HADDONSTONE STANDS PROUD
WITH IMPRESSIVE PORTICO PORTFOLIOS
Northamptonshire-based Haddonstone is reporting a revival of interest in porticos as they serve both practical and aesthetic purposes in architectural design. For an existing building or a new build, cast stone porticos can be incorporated to visually transform any entrance. They can also be styled to complement other key elements to a façade such as window surrounds, cornices and wall dressings like entablatures, to create an integrated design. Sensitively executed, they can enhance the kerb appeal or wow-factor of a building. www.haddonstone.com
HYDROPRO FLOOR PAINT - FAST AND VERSATILE
HMG Paints Ltd has announced the launch of its HydroPro Floor Paint, an easy to apply, single pack, water-based product that provides an excellent result in the shortest possible time. The latest addition to the Manchester-based firm’s growing Hydro-Pro range of products, the Floor Paint is formulated for either interior or exterior use and can be applied over new, aged or previously painted floor areas in either domestic, workshop or factory situations. It dries in 30 to 45 minutes and can be overcoated after 1 hour. www.hmgpaint.com
HOW BIM TECHNOLOGY IS TRANSFORMING ARCHITECTURE AND CONSTRUCTION: A PRACTICAL INSIGHT
In a world of architecture and construction guided by constant creativity, the reinvention of standards and the emphasis on sustainability, one question prevails - what impact will the digital transformation have on the way houses and buildings will be designed in the future? In view of the threat of human labour being replaced by automated means, these industries are currently dictating the value of a complementary relationship between technological and human capabilities.
In a universe of possibilities, Vicaima, one of the pioneers in the launch of BIM objects for interior doors, shares the key practical guidelines for the effective implementation of this technology in a construction project. www.vicaima.com
MAKE YOUR TILE INSTALLATION MORE REGAL
The updated Regal collection exclusively from Parkside Architectural Tiles brings a complete high performance porcelain tiling solution. Made up of wall and floor tiles, mosaics alongside coordinating grouts, thresholds and trims, the newlook Regal collection introduces a palette of neutral tones and different surface effects making it suitable for a large array of projects.
Nine sophisticated neutral colours including tones of vanilla, grey and ash, are all available in a range of sizes across polished, matt and grip (36+ PTV) finishes, so that projects can enjoy a beautifully coordinated tile installation from floor to ceiling. And with a durable porcelain frost-proof construction, the smart look can be continued in outdoor spaces too. www.parkside.co.uk
West Fraser has produced a new CPD presentation which highlights the features and benefits of the ever-popular SterlingOSB Zero panel and it's variations. Available on RIBA's CPD website, the video, with narration, begins with learning aims and ends with learning outcomes.
The different types of SterlingOSB Zero - OSB3, T&G and PrimedPlus - are clearly described, alongside their benefits and details of how each is made. Applications of SterlingOSB Zero are explained - roofing, flooring, timber frame - while real-life case studies are picturecaptioned.
The presentation also highlights West Fraser's certification; CE-marked, BBAapproved, FSC® (C012533). It also explains how builders and developers can adhere to building regulations, with SterlingOSB Zero, including sound, structural and energy.
https://uk.westfraser.com
As a specialist in all areas of the building envelope, SFS Group Fastening Technology has created a comprehensive selection of CPD seminars which are intended to offer architects and other specifiers valuable insights into relevant industry topics, embracing key issues such as sustainability, safety and structural stability.
The RIBA approved presentations have been compiled to ensure participants gain a better understanding of the topics which range from fall protection systems to the fixing of warm roofs. Each seminar normally runs for 40 minutes with the opportunity for questions afterwards, while RIBA Chartered Architects will qualify for double CPD points. There is also the choice of having seminars delivered by the manufacturer's Specification Team at offices and at the SFS Academy in Leeds or Welwyn Garden City. https://uk.sfs.com
K3 RADIATORS - MAKING THEIR PRESENCE KNOWN...
K3 radiators have come into their own in recent years as the number of low temperature, renewable heating systems being installed has grown, with more than 60,000 heat pumps installed in the UK in the past year. Lower temperature heating systems can require larger radiators to achieve the comfort heating levels in a home, and in some homes installing larger radiators may be a problem if the wall space does not allow for them. In these situations, K3 radiators from Stelrad – with three panels and three sets of fins - are an ideal solution – providing 50% more metal heating surface than a standard K2 for example, but from the same size radiator footprint. Alongside better levels of insulation, these radiators can provide the solution required to keep the temperature at the level needed in a home. www.stelrad.com/trade
INTERIORS
Some of the latest building interiors news, products and projects that we've received from contributors. Click the company name to get straight to their website, click the link button to see all of their stories that we've featured at www.xtrabuild.co.uk and click any photo link icons to open up a slideshow
WELSH
SLATE
Welsh Slate Stars In London's Very First Nature-Driven Hotel Experience - A hotel brand that is leading the way in sustainable hospitality has made sensory use in its interiors of an architectural product from Welsh Slate’s diverse portfolio. Sleek dark countertops produced from Welsh Slate’s honed and dressed Cwt-y-Bugail Dark Blue Grey slate in the bedrooms and suites of the mission-driven 1 Hotel brand, in glitzy Mayfair, London.
STYLE
Style Delivers Adaptable Space to The Spine - Located in Liverpool's Knowledge Quarter, The Spine is the northern home of the Royal College of Physicians and is one of the healthiest buildings in the UK. Partitioning expert Style installed 10 Dorma Huppe semi-automatic Variflex moveable walls over 3 floors, creating adaptable space that encourages collaborative working amongst RCP staff.
STELRAD
Fronting Up With New Radiator Options - For many years Stelrad’s Compact radiator range has been the best-selling radiator in the UK and Ireland. The Compact has evolved over the years improving its appearance and its efficiency and is nowadays anything but an ordinary radiator which speaks volumes for its on-going popularity. It’s a sleek, well designed and highly efficient radiator and continues to out-sell all other models.
ZENTIA
Zentia Unveils Decoframe – A Renaming Of The Axiom Range - Zentia, the UK’s market leader in complete ceiling solutions, is excited to announce the renaming of its popular Axiom range of canopies to DecoFrame. This change reflects the company’s commitment to modern design and high acoustic performance, offering customers a solution where aesthetics and functionality meet seamlessly.
KELLER GOES FOR GLASS
The black steel door, with a glass front, is loved by many; it gives the home a modern, industrial, luxurious look. Fluted glass is specifically popular this year and, as ever, Keller is ahead of the curve by introducing a new portfolio of glass designs. The Keller range was expanded to include both new glass fronts, with or without matt black coated aluminium crittall-style bars, and cabinets in various heights and combinations. Different types of lighting can be specified; strip lighting for all glass cabinets in the sidewall, spotlights or glass shelf lighting. A great touch for the new range is an oak wine rack which is available in a 600mm width. The smoked glass is available in light and dark variants and with or without crittall-style bars. The new fluted, ribbed clear glass doors are not available with bars. www.kellerkitchens.com
MINIMALISTIC DESIGN, VERSATILE TO USE
Treat the bathroom to a touch of Scandinavian elegance: with the Luv bathtub by Cecilie Manz, it transforms the room into a stylish design oasis. Inspired by the simple charm of a water bowl, the impressive bathtub with its gently curved, oval silhouette blends seamlessly into any interior. Made from the velvety mineralcast material DuroCast®, the bathtub provides high levels of comfort – in the bathroom at home or in a luxury hotel.
Eye-catching design with a feel-good factor - The Luv bathtub demonstrates its adaptability across a range of applications. For example, in the “Blaue Burg” boutique hotel in the Allgäu Alps, the calming atmosphere created by the pared-down design and quality workmanship comes to the fore. “We were impressed straight away both by how the Luv bathtub looks and feels. It blends perfectly into the space and offers our guests a perfect feel-good experience,” said Simon Schlachter, hotelier of the “Blaue Burg”. www.duravit.com
EDINBURGH LUXURY HOTEL'S CIRCULAR TERRAZZO FLOORING
'W Edinburgh’ is located in the lively area of St James Quarter. The hotel itself spans 3 buildings. The Ribbon Building, James Craig Walk and the Quarter House, together combining 199 bedrooms, 45 suites, a Gym, luxury Spa and a variety of Restaurants and Bars. Edinburgh is a historic and culturally rich city. The design of the unique rooms and suites in the hotel reflect the spirit of the city.
The interior design is breathtaking! The design concept from Keppie included unusual circular brass inlays for the beautiful Terrazzo flooring. Terrazzo is a composite material that is poured in situ. It consists of chips of marble, quartz, granite, and glass. The challenge was to integrate our products seamlessly into the opulent surroundings. The brass inlays supplied by Dural allowed the Terrazzo to be segmented into unusual flowing shapes and areas. Circles were specified and the Dural Z-Flex machine allowed the brass inlays to be shaped on site or prefabricated and delivered. www.colouredmovementjoints.co.uk
BRADITE PROVES A BOON FOR COMMUNITY CAFÉ
Bradite’s One Can has helped create a bright, airy and welcoming atmosphere in a South Croydon community venture. Boon Café Croydon was conceived, in the words of its founder Georgina Arsalides, as “a space for families to enjoy, a place for groups to meet and new friendships to form.”
The non-profit enterprise has been transformed in appearance thanks to One Can paint, 50 litres of which were donated by Bradite. “While putting together our vision for Boon, we saw Bradite One Can and were able to choose a beautiful sky blue colour in their RAL colour range.” says Georgina. “Bradite was happy to gift the paint which we are so very grateful for, and the vision came to life.”
“I have had so many compliments on the colour of the room. People have been asking where it's from, as they want to redecorate their house in the sky blue!” www.bradite.com
A
PINK BATHROOM PAYS HOMAGE TO BERLIN'S VINTAGE ARTS
In the Charlottenburg district of West Berlin, Apartment Kan 36 has been transformed into a contemporary retreat. Designed and refurbished by esteemed architect Gianni Verde at Sunostudio, the minimalist, modern apartment was completed in 2024 and reflects the eclectic design scene of Berlin. The bathroom exudes a feeling of calm and tranquillity, entirely tiled in pink with large windows that flood the room in natural light. Inspired by the aesthetics of the 1960s, the bathroom is clad with soothing pink ceramic tiles by Ceramica Vogue. This homage to Berlin’s vintage art scene blends harmoniously with sleek contemporary elements such as Kaldewei’s CONO Countertop washbasin in Alpine White. www.kaldewei.co.uk
RAISING THE BAR ON CHARM AND CHARACTER WITH CRL QUARTZ
When it comes to blending classic charm with modern functionality, few materials achieve this as seamlessly as CRL Quartz. That’s why this versatile surface was chosen for the stunning refurbishment of Don Paddy’s, a popular bar and kitchen in the heart of Uppingham, Rutland. Set in a Grade II listed property on the town’s historic market square, Don Paddy’s has been a local favourite for over 20 years, owned and operated by the same family. In January 2024, the venue embarked on a comprehensive refurbishment, which saw the introduction of CRL Quartz surfaces to add a touch of refinement. The transformation was completed in three months, with Don Paddy’s reopening its doors in April.
FEATURE - CRL STONE
The main objective of the refurbishment was to create an even more inviting atmosphere, particularly on the first floor, where owners wanted to encourage more customers to relax and enjoy the upstairs space. It was essential to achieve this while preserving the warm, welcoming ambience Don Paddy’s has always been known for.
Alongside aesthetic upgrades, the building underwent a full electrical rewire, installation of new plumbing, and a heating system to ensure both form and function were of a high quality. CRL Quartz played a crucial role in achieving the desired look.
The owners were keen to introduce a more contemporary feel without losing the traditional charm of the space, and the distinctive appeal of the Cristallo Platino surface met this challenge head on. Its natural stone inspired design, featuring dark grey veins and warm brushstrokes set against a lighter grey backdrop, blended perfectly with the colour palette, adding depth and texture to the bar’s visual identity.
A standout feature in a timeless setting One of the project’s most significant challenges was incorporating modern finishes into a Grade II listed building without compromising its historical features. The Cristallo Platino bar countertop, positioned front and centre, became a key design element.
Rock Revelations, the expert team behind the installation, ensured every detail was meticulously executed despite the tight schedule, completing the job in time for the grand reopening. While the Cristallo Platino surface added industrial flair to the main bar, Verona from the CRL Quartz range was chosen for other parts of the interior, including beneath the log burner and on the second bar.
Its marble-effect finish, with warm brown veins flowing through the material, provided a softer, more refined contrast to the Cristallo Platino, adding warmth and character throughout the space. Both surfaces worked harmoniously with the darker timber accents, making the bar and its surroundings an eye-catching focal point.
CRL Quartz is well-known for its exceptional durability and ease of maintenance, making it an ideal choice for commercial environments like Don Paddy’s. Its hardwearing properties ensure the surface will withstand the rigours of a busy bar and restaurant, while its nonporous nature means it is resistant to stains and easy to care for – key considerations for the team at Don Paddy’s, who wanted materials that would stand the test of time without compromising on style.
The seamless integration of these surfaces into the overall design was aided by the expert vision of Sally Longden Interiors, who spearheaded the project. Sally’s ability to balance modern finishes with the building’s historic features was instrumental in the success of the refurbishment, helping to create a cohesive and inviting space.
By choosing Cristallo Platino and Verona from CRL Quartz, the team at Don Paddy’s has successfully transformed this iconic Uppingham venue, ensuring it remains a cherished local hotspot for years to come, where customers can feel at home. www.crlstone.co.uk
DOORS
Some of the latest project and product information relating to doors that we've received from contributors. Click the company name to get straight to their website, click the link button to see all of their stories that we've featured at www.xtrabuild.co.uk and click any photo link icons to open up a slideshow
TORMAX
TORMAX Opens University - Striving to be recognised as a modern college that welcomes students from a wide range of backgrounds, Trinity College, in central Oxford, developed the new Levine Building. The building is a benchmark for overall accessibility, with main contractor, Gilbert Ash, specifying TORMAX to automate ten key access points throughout the building. TORMAX installed their iMotion 1301 to the main entrance doors and elsewhere in the building.
HÖRMANN UK
Hörmann UK launch ProductPortal - Leading door and loading solutions manufacturer Hörmann UK has introduced a new online portal to provide architects and specifiers with access to information across its wide range of industrial, commercial, and domestic construction products. Designed and developed to make life easier, ProductPortal is quick and easy to use and brings together everything required to specify Hörmann products into just one place.
RUNDUM MEIR
Rundum Meir Side-Sectional Door Turns On The Style
In Chelsea - An aluminium clad Rundum Meir side sliding sectional garage door proved the ideal solution for a development of luxury properties in London’s fashionable Chelsea neighbourhood. A stand-out feature of the property’s contemporary architecture, which fuses old and new influences, is the side sliding sectional garage door that is finished in aluminium to complement the colours and tones of surrounding materials.
Interior Doors – Make The White Choice! - One way to achieve purity within your decor is with the use of flush white doors. White, with its inherent ability to rejuvenate and add a fresh clean look to modern interiors is widely recognised, however it does not mean that scope for differentiation is limited. The White Collection by Vicaima, demonstrates that taking this singular tonal path can also open up a whole new world of possibilities.
INDUSTRIAL STEEL LOFT DOORS FROM HÖRMANN – STEEL AND GLASS IN PERFECT HARMONY
Inspired by the minimalism of our industrial heritage the range of steel loft doors from Hörmann have been designed to create a feeling of light and space. Providing the perfect combination of large, glazed panels with high quality slim steel profiles, the range offers specifiers and consumers endless opportunities to create stylish doors and room screening for both living and workspaces. www.hormann.co.uk
CRISP DESIGN FOR AN ELEGANT AND UNFUSSY ROOFSCAPE
Sort Trae is a newly built PassivHaus situated on a steeply sloping site in Thurgoland, Barnsley. The owner, a former architect, conceived the design up to the planning stage. HEM Architects were subsequently engaged to translate the design intent into an ultra-low energy and comfortable home, overseeing the construction process on-site.
A noteworthy feature of the residence is the roof lights adorning the studio. Positioned prominently atop the roof, these lights form an integral part of the architectural composition, satisfying the architect's preference for a sleek and uncluttered roofscape. FAKRO flat roof windows were specifically selected for their exceptional thermal performance and the effectiveness of their integrated kerbs. www.fakro.co.uk
TORMAX AUTOMATIC ACCESS FOR THE ELDERLY
TORMAX, a leader in innovative automatic door solutions, was contracted by Futuremost Windows to automate the double set of sliding doors that create the main entrance to the newly built, Chichester Grange care home.
Providing reliable automation, TORMAX recommended installing two of their technologically advanced iMotion 2202.A door drives, ensuring the smooth opening and closing of the doors into this wellappointed facility. In a setting such as this, where some residents have mobility challenges or visual impairment, safety and door leaf responsiveness is a priority.
The iMotion 2202.A drive is equipped with advanced, wide-range sensors, ensuring immediate and precise response to obstacle recognition. Intelligent microprocessor controls allow opening and closing speeds and hold-open times to be easily adapted for slower approach speeds. The TORMAX operators are also certified for rescue and escape routes. www.tormax.co.uk
REPLACEMENT TIMBER WINDOWS AND DOORS BY THE SASH WINDOW WORKSHOP
The Sash Window Workshop were contacted to upgrade the windows and doors at a property in the Cotswolds. The new joinery needed to improve energy efficiency, while being in keeping with the architectural style of the building. The customer decided to proceed with new sashes in 16 sash windows. As the property was in a conservation area,and the windows were not being replaced likefor-like, the customer needed to obtain planning permission for the new windows. The sashes were manufactured using Accoya wood, which is a FSC certified timber and comes with a 50-year anti-rot guarantee. The sashes were then fully factory finished in a bespoke semi-gloss paint. The customer was very happy with the work, so they decided to place several additional orders for more work. www.sashwindow.com
‘SCOPE’
INVOLVEMENT SEES ASWS EARN REFURB CONTRACT FOR HISTORIC COPTHALL HOUSE
As an acknowledged specialist in the restoration of steel and other metal windows, Associated Steel Window Services (ASWS) is regularly called upon to carry out surveys for client’s consultant teams in advance of major projects beginning. Copthall House in the City of London being one instance where its involvement in preparing a scope document led to the company being awarded a contract to carry out the demanding work.
The property on the edge of the City of London dating from the late 19th Century has been redeveloped into four high specification serviced offices by L.M. Stern. The cost consultant for the scheme was Gardiner & Theobald, with whom ASWS has a long association and which led to the fenestration specialist’s early involvement, surveying the historic four-storey frontage and advising on the most economic intervention for the aging aluminium fenestration.
ASWS is a long-established member of the Steel Window Association and well-recognised expert in the repair of metal windows, from the earliest wrought iron examples through to contemporary curtain walling. As well as in-situ servicing and restoration, the company frequently removes frames back to its Croydon workshops for repair, or the production of replica replacements. www.asws.co.uk
PROJECTS
Some of the latest project stories that we've received from contributors. Click the company name to get straight to their website, click the link button to see all of their stories that we've featured at www.xtrabuild.co.uk and click any photo link icons to open up a slideshow
FP MCCANN ELEVATE
FP McCann Thin Flat Roof Tiles Installed On North Ayrshire Care Home - FP McCann has supplied its thin leading edge interlocking concrete roof tiles branded ”Thin Flat” to a brandnew care facility in Largs, North Ayrshire. Once complete early next year, the new 80-bed care home will provide accommodation for its elderly residents over three levels. Amongst its many state-of-the art facilities will be activity rooms and dining areas, a café, a gym and a cinema.
RUNDUM MEIR
Rundum Original Garage Doors Provide Unique Feature In Prestigious Cornish Development - Twin Rundum Original ‘round the corner’ side sliding doors have been manufactured and installed by bespoke garage door specialist Rundum Meir UK as part of the North Quay development in Hayle, Cornwall. Rundum Meir was approached to explore the potential for twin bespoke doors with radiused corners at their adjacent edge
RubberGard EPDM SA Scales New Heights At The O2 - A self-adhesive single ply roofing membrane has provided a quick and robust waterproofing solution for a climbing attraction located at The O2. ‘Up at The O2’ offers thrill seekers the chance to climb the venue’s world-famous domed roof and enjoy panoramic views of London.
Ideal Heating Commercial Boilers Deliver Energy Efficient Heating For Hull Maritime Museum - Two Imax Xtra 2 240kW Ideal Heating Commercial condensing boilers have been installed at Hull Maritime Museum as part of a major restoration project to the Grade 2* listed building. The boiler had not only outlived its natural working lifespan, but was also energy inefficient. It's now been replaced by two Imax Xtra 2 240kW boilers installed in cascade on a prefabricated header kit.
HISTORIC HANGAR BUILDINGS TRANSFORM WITH STO
An external wall insulation system manufactured by Sto has helped to renovate historic hangar buildings at Pembroke Dock in Wales. Architects Purcell specified Sto to upgrade annexes connected to two hangars, allowing them to be transformed into new office and workshop spaces. One of the annexes required a two-storey extension and the other had to be rebuilt. For both projects, the StoTherm Mineral M external wall insulation system was selected with a Sto render façade finish, and includes mineral fibre insulation boards providing a high level of fire protection and thermal performance.
Main contractor R & M Williams fixed the insulation boards to cement particle boards, installed to the light-streel frame structure, with Sto-Rotofix Plus mechanical fixings. These unique, helical spiral fixings can overcome the problems of variable cavity requirements, as the position of all the fixings can be viewed during installation and they can easily be adjusted to achieve correct alignment of the insulation boards. A 20mm drained cavity behind the insulation boards was created for this project allowing any excess moisture to drain out of the bottom of the system, meeting the requirements of NHBC Building Control. As first-time installers of Sto’s products, R&M Williams attended a system application demonstration prior to commencing the installation. As a heritage site, it was vital the extended annexe and new structure complemented the existing buildings. Sto’s
extensive StoColor system enabled the façade of the new annexe to be finished in a blue resin StoSilco K1.5 render to match the colour specified by and signed off by the conservation officer. For the extension, the render was colour matched to the existing lime render. StoColor Silco G silicone resin façade paint, applied as a final finish to the Sto render, has also provided high levels of water repellence and resistance to algae and fungus growth, which is essential given the hangars’ close proximity to the sea. Further detailing was achieved thanks to StoDeco www.sto.co.uk
DIALLING DOWN NOISE AT SEVEN DIALS MARKET
Seven Dials Market in Covent Garden is a market and dining space occupying the 19th Century Thomas Neal’s Warehouse. Designed by architects Stiff+Trevillion for client Kerb, the scheme comprises 23,680 square metres of food, drink and entertainment space. The design of the building retains many original features carefully restored and refurbished including cast iron beams and brickwork arches on a flagstone floor. As with all large, open spaces covered with hard surfaces, controlling acoustics was essential in providing a comfortable space for staff and visitors. As a result, Troldtekt wood wool acoustic panels in a black finish were specified for use around the central skylight to help acoustical performance. www.troldtekt.co.uk
SILK NEGRO CLADDING MAKES A
STRIKING, MODERN AND LONG-LASTING IMPRESSION
Weather-proof, UV resistant and with huge kerb appeal, Inalco MDi Silk Negro from CRL Stone makes a striking impression when used as cladding on the exterior of a property. The owners of the 1940s detached house in Hove, West Sussex, were keen to update the frontage while ensuring the finished look remained in keeping with the original Georgian features, ensuring the building continued to blend in with the street overall. To do this, the wood slat front common with this property type was replaced with Silk Negro in a similar slat format, to give the house a new look with a modern twist that continues to work in harmony with its surroundings. www.crlstone.co.uk
PROJECTS
MULTIBOARD HELPS MANGO MOSAICS MOVE OUTDOORS
Despite 35 years as an artist and with examples of her mosaics to be found in both public settings and private ownership, Caroline Jariwala is still keen to learn from other members of the artistic community, though in this instance the piece of wisdom was about how to overcome the physical shortcomings of the plywood she regularly used as a substrate for her commissions. While trying to be as sustainable as possible in making use of reclaimed tiles and distressed ceramics as the raw material for much of her work and teaching sessions, the backing materials, or substrates, are normally new sections of board and with an increasing demand for her to create mosaics which will be exposed to the weather, the reason she decided to experiment with the use of Marmox Multiboard, was the specialist tilebacker board’s resistance to repeated wetting. Marmox 12.5mm Multiboard is light and cuts easily just with a Stanley (craft) knife. www.marmox.co.uk
BASEMENT SPECIALIST CRYSTAL KEEPS FAITH WITH WYKAMOL-TRITON RANGE INSIDE & OUT
Crystal Damp Proofing & Basements is employing a selection of products from the Wykamol-Triton range. And while the company has undertaken many larger scale projects across the South-East since it was set up three years ago, the 40-year-old residential property its team is currently making progress on, is unusual in featuring existing basement areas both beneath the house and to the rear.
The curved outside lightwell and the main sub-structure had both suffered long-term problems with damp and are receiving similar treatments in the form of the C20 and CM8 studded drainage membranes, installed across the concrete floor slabs and blockwork walls respectively: offering a permanent remedy to penetrating damp.
The BBA approved Wykamol-Triton CM8 and CM20
Waterproofing Membranes – manufactured from high density polyethylene - are routinely specified as an extra layer of protection for the walls and floors of cellars and basements, with their studded form allowing any water to be directed into perimeter channels and then a sump, which is automatically emptied by an electric pump. www.wykamol.com
HARNESS THE POWER OF CREATIVE LIGHTING WITH SCHLÜTER®-SYSTEMS
HARNESS
THE POWER OF CREATIVE LIGHTING WITH SCHLÜTER®-SYSTEMS
Schlüter-Systems is well known as the expert in enabling the design and installation of long-lasting, creative kitchens and bathrooms with portfolios of intelligent products and systems. The collection of lighting systems, which incorporate advanced control and luminaire technology, offers almost unlimited choice for the most imaginative schemes.
The key is Schlüter-LIPROTEC which creates restful lighting for relaxing spaces, or bright, colourful lighting for a busy family bathroom or kitchen. It can be installed in a choice of direct or indirect lighting effects, enabling the interior designer, architect or property owner to illuminate feature walls, pictures, tiled areas such as shower enclosures or study spaces, kitchen countertops and stairways; in fact, anywhere the creative mind can conceive a plan for. www.schluter.co.uk
THOUGHTS THOUGHTS
Some of the latest thoughts, guidance, views and opinions that we've received from contributors. Click the company name to get straight to their website, click the link button to see all of their stories that we've featured at www.xtrabuild.co.uk and click any photo link icons to open up a slideshow
BRADITE HMG PAINTS
Transform uPVC With One Can - Leading UK paint manufacturer Bradite is promoting the benefits of its One Can product when used as a coating over uPVC. Here, Operations Director Ben Mottershead answers some quick-fire questions on its application and suitabilit
Matching Colours Should Not Involve Different Shades Of Opinion - Making sure you have the right colour for your decorating job is not always straightforward. There are many factors in play and that has nothing to do with whether or not you are colour blind, a condition that only affects about 4.5 percent of the British population anyway. HMG Paint has researched the subject of colour matching very thoroughly and has issued a detailed guide to help both the user and the decorator to get it right first time.
POP UP POWER SUPPLIES
Making Christmas Markets A Runaway Success - As the British appetite for Christmas markets continues to grow and they increasingly become a fixture in the annual festivities for towns and cities right across the UK, there has never been a better time to invest in the right power and services infrastructure to allow for hassle-free staging of these footfall-driving events every year.
Charles Bluth Talks To Haddonstone About His Love Of Classical European-Style architecture - Charles Bluth is a prominent American property developer known for his significant contributions to the real estate industry across the USA. Early in 2024, Bluth asked Haddonstone’s US team to help in making spectacular the exterior of his magnificent Château V property in Colorado. Here, Nicola Clements of Haddonstone talks to Charles about his career and why he chose to commission the company
THE FIREPLACE EVALUATION. GAS, WOOD OR ELECTRIC?
An overview by Niall Deiraniya, general manager of DRU Fires UK.
Autumn is a time of crisp, cool days and longer nights. There is no better feeling than returning from a vigorous walk and relaxing next to a warm fire. Do you choose a gas fire, a wood burning stove or an electric fire? Will you convert your existing chimney or select a fire that requires no chimney? Let’s consider the options.
Gas fires - Gas heating will be here for the foreseeable future. It provides real flames, comfortable heating and high energy efficiency. DRU has a range of gas fires that can be installed with or without a chimney, are suitable for modern or traditional homes and offer superior design and performance.
THOUGHTS
A good example is the DRU Maestro 75XTU Tall model, with its 1.3-metre-high, 3-sided window. Not just a fire but an architectural feature that will make a dramatic statement in your home.
Wood burning fires and stoves - wood stoves are a sustainable heating option, with beautiful flames and generous heat. DRU produces them under its Dik Geurts brand. They include the Ivar, which fits UK chimneys and designer stoves like the Oval, for rural retreats or urban lofts. The range also includes built-in models, including 2-sided, 3-sided and see-through tunnel fires.
Electric fires - Today’s electric fires have evolved from functional appliances to models with impressive design and performance. Consumers are turning to electric for its low carbon footprint and compatibility with media walls, which also accommodate gas fires and wood stoves. DRU Virtuo Evolve electric fires feature realistic flame images, authentic logs and glowing embers, all controlled by an app on your phone.
There are no flue connections and they can be used for heating or purely as decorative fires. To choose the ideal fireplace for your project, visit a DRU dealer. They have a wide selection, in all fuel types, on live display. They will advise you on the best option and offer full design and installation services. To find your nearest dealer, visit www.drufire.co.uk or email info@drufire.co.uk
GIVE YOUR SPACE STAND OUT STYLE WITH MODULEO MOODS
Moduleo® Moods has been used to bring inspirational flooring design to hotels, offices, restaurants, shops and more. Through bold geometric designs or subtle tessellating patterns, designers have used its shapes and designs to create extraordinary flooring in receptions and lobbies, bars, meeting spaces, store fronts and more. Now updated with new patterns and natural wood and stone effects, Moduleo Moods is ready to bring exciting new looks to commercial spaces.
Moduleo’s designers have looked to the Roots collection for Moods, selecting 12 wood and stone effects with four shapes. With Moduleo Moods, designers can make the floor theirs and create something really special for their project. Paul Webb, commercial manager, says, “The original Moods was an award-winning collection that showed commercial space designers it was possible to do something really unique with luxury vinyl and create floors that played a starring role in the interior design." "With the new Moods, we’ve built on this, offering fresh new patterns and our best Roots wood and stone effects for a premium design floor that continues the legacy.”
All of the stock options in Moduleo Moods uses Moduleo’s best specification. A 0.55mm wear layer and scratch and stain resistance make sure that Moods can withstand use in busy spaces while staying looking good. The wood and stone effects are also enhanced with EIR technology for a realistic texture that’s perfectly in sync with the design. Moods Signature is also available alongside the standard patterns. Expanding the number of shape options to nine and unlocking every single Roots design, Signature brings complete freedom and a floor that’s truly one-off. Please visit pro.moduleo.com or call 01332 851 50
