Creative Build Magazine - April Issue

April Issue Unrivalled performance from Schöck modular connectivity solution,

Framery One - the world’s first connected soundproof pod

How modern façade paints can help with refurbishment projects

Pages 8-9

Pages 36-37

Pages 44-45

creativebuildmagazine.com

Contents 6

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Plug and play CO2 monitor keeps workplace safe

Exciting home design competition for young people

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Unrivalled performance from Schöck modular connectivity solution

Japanese Knotweed: It’s Knot to be Ignored

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Floating Home

How a pandemic reshapes the office

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44

The world’s first connected soundproof pod

How modern facade paints can help with refurbishment projects

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Travis Perkins has launched an industry first mobile app for customers Travis Perkins, which is the UK’s largest supplier of building materials to the building and construction industry, has launched an industry first mobile app for customers. This can be downloaded from any Google Play or Apple App store and will revolutionise the way customers can order stock and manage their trade accounts on the go.

The app has been designed in conjunction with customers to help them save time and work smarter by enabling them to check and order stock at their personal trade prices in real time from their local branch 24/7. Not only will this transform the way they can forward plan their materials ordering and purchasing at the time that is most convenient to them, but the new app will also enable Trade Professional

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customers to fully manage their accounts on the go. At just the tap of a mobile button, they can check their credit accounts, pay balances and download their invoices, which means they will be able to wave goodbye to large amounts of paperwork.

“The pandemic has put huge pressure on all of us in the industry to ensure safety and keep construction projects going, and we have worked tirelessly with our customers to digitise our engagement with them and reshape our business to suit the changing demands of our markets.

“We know our customers are incredibly busy, so we have simplified our commercial deals and reduced our pricing on thousands of trade essentials, and this

app will help make it easier still for our customers to work smarter and quicker by ordering on the go and managing their accounts from their pocket by ensuring they have all the information they need at their fingertips 24/7,” explained Digital Director of Travis Perkins, John Godwin.

To locate the app, customers can search for and download the ‘Travis Perkins App’ in any Google Play or the Apple App Store. They will then need to sign in or activate their online account before they can start shopping and managing their accounts directly from their mobiles.

As a welcome, Trade Professional Account customers will get 10% off when they place their first order via the Travis Perkins App.

Introducing The Flooring Showroom the flooring industry’s only online supplier directory The Flooring Showroom is an exciting new online platform connecting buyers with the leading manufacturers and suppliers, all year round.

The digital directory is the first of its kind for the industry and the newest initiative from the team behind The Flooring Show. The Flooring Showroom showcases new products and collections from 100s of brands, all in one place.

“We know that product launches are no longer limited to one specific time of year” commented The Flooring Show’s Event Director, Alex Butler. “The Flooring Showroom is designed to allow buyers

to expand their product ranges outside of traditional exhibition seasons.”

The Flooring Showroom is an exclusive community for retailers, contractors, fitters, specifiers and buyers where they can source products throughout the year. Find all the latest products from Associated Weavers, Bostik Ltd, Condor Carpets, Cormar Carpet Co, Interfloor, Kellars, Victoria Carpets & Design Floors and many more.

Flooring buyers can register for free now, visit www.theflooringshow.com/the-showroom For suppliers interested in a membership on The Flooring Showroom contact Suzy Makin at suzy@theflooringshow.com.

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Plug and play CO2 monitor keeps workplace safe As offices begin to open up in the next few weeks, and safety comes to the fore, companies are being encouraged to install CO2 Monitors in the workplace.

Ventilation, in the current pandemic, is one of the most important factors in helping reduce the relative risk of the airborne transmission of COVID-19.

A report produced by Sage’s Environmental and Modelling Group (EMG), and endorsed by the Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE), suggests that fresh air plays a significant role in keeping the virus at bay indoors, and that poor air quality could be highlighted with the use of a CO2 monitor.

In response, a UK manufactured, USB powered ‘plug and play’ CO2 monitor has been launched in 2021 to provide a cost-effective solution. The Vision CO2 Monitor helps determine if further ventilation is required by providing a clear

digital readout and focuses on a bold traffic light display to indicate that further ventilation is required when it matters.

‘This CO2 monitor is particularly appropriate for offices, site cabins, and schools where there are installation constraints, facilitating a fast but reliable method of monitoring the risk of COVID transmission,’ commented Andy Green, who developed the unit.

Elevated CO2 levels not only provide an indication that airborne contaminants may be present, but they also reduce cognitive function, productivity and can have long term adverse effects on health and general wellbeing.

‘Most buildings are naturally ventilated and rely on opening windows for fresh air, or use air recirculation systems that have been switched off, so without a CO2 monitor there is no way of knowing if spaces such as offices and classrooms are adequately ventilated,’ commented Andy Green.

USB powered ‘Plug and play’ Vision CO2 Monitor 6

There are a number of ‘cheap’ units available online, however these focus on gimmick displays rather than the required traffic light indication. We also offer UK support with a guaranteed supply chain if larger quantities are required.’

‘The Vision CO2 Monitor removes any uncertainty and provides an immediate indication that further ventilation is needed,’ he added. ‘If risk reduction for COVID is an issue in your workplace or school I strongly recommend getting in touch,’ Andy concluded.

For more information visit www.vision-co2monitor.co.uk or email vision@flamefast.co.uk

George Clarke launches exciting home design competition for young people Talented schools and colleges to produce designs for the resource efficient house Architect and TV presenter George Clarke today launches a national challenge for young people in Scotland to design an extension to the Resource Efficient House in Glasgow.

The challenge is being run by the City of Glasgow College, the Energy Skills Partnership (ESP) and George’s education charity for young people, MOBIE (the Ministry of Building Innovation and Education). The challenge will inspire the next generation of home designers, makers and innovators.

The presenter of Channel 4 TV programmes Restoration Man, George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces and Old House New Home, joined Jacqueline Schindler of Tigh Grian Ltd and Robert Cowie of ÜserHuus Ltd, the creators of the Resource Efficient House, at a webinar hosted by Caitriona Jordan of the Construction Scotland Innovation Centre (CSIC), to launch the exciting challenge to schools and colleges.

The Resource Efficient House was assembled in 2013 at the Building Research Establishment’s Ravenscraig site.

It is a ground-breaking, exemplar quality, sustainable and affordable family home of the future that includes the latest green technologies. It was purposely designed to be deconstructed and moved to a new site and it is now time for it to be relocated to the centre of Glasgow and retrofitted with the latest technology.

Speaking at the launch George said: “MOBIE is all about the future of home design in Britain and across the world. I am delighted to be launching this exciting challenge, the first MOBIE challenge for young people in Scotland, with our partners the City of Glasgow College and the Energy Skills Partnership.

Clarke added “We all need a shelter and our home is the most important piece of architecture in our lives. But home is more than just a shelter, it is a place that enhances the quality and experience of our everyday lives and our health and well-being. Homes of the future must look after our planet. That is why we are asking students to think about designing an extension for and relocating the Resource Efficient House, so they are thinking about new technologies and approaches to buildings that can help us become zero carbon.

He went on “By harnessing the talents, ideas and energy of the young people of today we can change the way we build homes. The amazing student designs that I know will flow from this challenge will show that we have a future generation with the talent and the imagination to really make a difference for people and the planet.”

John Renwick, Construction Sector Manager at the Energy Skills Partnership, a collaboration of all Scotland’s regional colleges, said “construction is a vital sector to the economy and it is an industry crying out for more people with the right skills.

This challenge gives students at Scottish colleges an opportunity to experience real construction problems with a real house. By involving schools, it will help show children how interesting, rewarding and varied a career in the built environment can be.

He added “Our future homes need to help us avoid climate change and environmental damage, so with COP26 the UN Climate change conference coming to Glasgow in November, it is most appropriate that this challenge is asking young people to learn about and further develop the ground-breaking ideas used in the Resource Efficient House”.

George Clarke is the founder of MOBIE, an educational charity which is spearheading a fundamental change to the building industry.

MOBIE is focused on raising the design standards, build quality and innovation around home building. Its mission is to inspire new generations into the building profession and to fundamentally transform the way we think about, design and construct homes in the UK.

The challenge invites schools and colleges from across Scotland to design an extension to the Resource Efficient House, to provide a beautiful, green and healthy living space for its occupants. College students are also being asked to plan the dismantling and relocation of the house to the centre of Glasgow and to upgrade the building with the latest smart technology and services to make it more energy efficient and zero carbon.

The challenge is open to young people aged between 11 and 25. The deadline for entries is 28 June 2021.

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Unrivalled performance from Schöck modular connectivity solution Phase three of the Elephant Park regeneration project comprises Park Central (North) and East Grove. These developments provide more than 800 new homes and the thermal performance at the design detailing involving the balconies and the unitised façades needed careful consideration if thermal bridging was to be minimised After the widespread devastation of the Second World War, the Elephant and Castle district of London was clumsily redeveloped during the 1950s. The resulting offices, housing estates and shopping centre were impressive in their time, but at best outmoded in recent times. However, the area has remained an important part of Central London and the current £2.3 billion Elephant Park regeneration project now aims to create one of the most sustainable inner-city regeneration projects in Europe.

Overall there are five phases at various stages in the masterplan, with the third currently live alongside the New Kent Road.

There are eleven buildings in this phase, divided into two plots – Park Central (North) and East Grove – providing 829 homes in total. There are brick-finished midrise blocks to 11 and 12-storeys throughout and

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each plot also features a main tower, one at 24-storey, the other 25-storey, both part of the family of tall buildings in the masterplan.

Construction of the towers uses around 19,000 m2 of aluminium unitised façade panels. The façade panels for the towers, supplied by FKN and Lindner, were delivered complete with integrated sliding doors and openings ready for the connection of ventilation devices.

There are also hundreds of cantilever steel balconies throughout the project. These were supplied by Sheffield based Dearneside Fabrications Ltd. and were also pre-fabricated, including flooring and glazed balustrades.

Avoidance of thermal bridging is critical With steel having such a high conductivity when compared with other construction materials the avoidance of thermal bridging is critical throughout the project.

Local heat loss is a major factor, resulting in more energy being required to maintain the internal temperature of the building.

Also, low internal surface temperatures in the area of any thermal bridge can cause condensation. This in turn is likely to result in structural integrity problems with absorbent materials, such as insulation products or plasterboard. Mould growth is also a possible risk, which in a residential situation can cause asthma and allergies.

Unique and versatile The versatile Schöck Isokorb T type S structural thermal break is the ideal connectivity solution for project applications involving steel-to-steel applications. There are two variants, the T type S-N for tensile force and the T type S-V for transferring compression and shear forces.

It is the only approved thermal break product for steel construction that satisfies the loadbearing and thermal insulation requirements of steel design. Also, being a modular unit, it can be adapted to all profile sizes and load bearing capacity requirements – plus it can be used in both new construction and renovation projects.

Totally verifiable performance Although the Schöck product types used in phase three at Elephant Park are for steel-to-steel connectivity, the comprehensive Isokorb range also offers solutions for concrete-to-steel, concreteto-concrete – and even a maintenance free alternative to wrapped parapets.

The requirement described in BRE IP1/06 and cited in Building Regulations Approved Documents Part L1 and L2 and Section 6 in Scotland, that the temperature factor used to indicate condensation risk (fRSI) must be greater than, or equal to, 0.75 for residential buildings is easily met by incorporating the Isokorb.

The range also complies with the Government Standard Assessment Procedure, SAP 2012, concerning CO2 emissions from buildings and respectively heat losses through non-repeating thermal bridges. Products meet full compliance with the relevant UK building regulations, have NHBC approval and offer LABC Registration. There is also the security of independent BBA Certification.

Contact Schöck on 01865 290 890; or visit the website at www.schoeck.com for full details of the Isokorb T type S and all other Isokorb solutions

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Widgets achieves zero landfill mark After a two-and-a-half-year waste management programme, Window Widgets has now achieved a zero-landfill mark, as the company looks to build further upon its impressive green credentials.

Driven by Andrew Taylor, QHSE Manager, the waste management programme ensures that only compliant waste carriers with an up-to-date licence are used across the recycling and reprocessing of nineteen different types of waste. Investment has been made in waste bailers and compactors at their site in Quedgeley, Gloucestershire and there are additional plans to help process further materials for recycling, that are currently designated as general waste.

The general waste that can’t be recycled is transported directly to the new £633m Javelin Park incineration plant near junction 12 of the M5, that is run

by Urbaser Balfour Beatty on behalf of Gloucestershire County Council to treat

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the county’s residual waste. The aim of this new plant is to generate enough power for 25,000 local homes, make a significant reduction in carbon emissions and will save the taxpayer £100 million over 25 years.

Elsewhere in the business the first fully electric company car has been delivered, with others to follow, while several carbon offsetting schemes are also under consideration in a companywide strategy of making Window Widgets one of the most environmentally conscious companies in the glazing and fenestration sectors. The business is also looking to change their electricity suppliers when this comes up for renewal in 2022 to one that is based on 100% renewables.

Sarah Hitchings, sales and marketing director of Window Widgets commented: ‘It’s everyone’s role to help tackle climate change and businesses can and should be making a major contribution

to the future of the planet. Achieving the zero-landfill mark is a major milestone for us, especially as we start to look at celebrating our 21st year in business, yet our thirst for enhancing our green credentials has never been so strong and credit must be given to Andrew Taylor for this immense achievement.’

For further information visit windowwidgets.co.uk, e-mail sales@windowwidgets.co.uk or call 01452 300912. You can also add to their following on Twitter @Windowwidgets or search #windowwidgets on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook. For information on The Residence Collection visit www. residencecollection.co.uk and www. residencecollectiontrade.co.uk. You can also add to their following on Twitter @residence9 and engage with them on other social media platforms including Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Pinterest and Houzz by searching #residencecollection.

SPECIALISTS IN GROWING INSTANT HEDGING Readyhedge is a nursery situated in the south of Worcestershire. We specialise in growing instant hedging in metre long lengths and various height from 30cm tall to 200cm tall.

As well as individual plants and low and high panels and screens. We grow over 40km of hedges in containers every year in over 35 varieties Readyhedge is an innovative way of supplying hedges which over comes the problem of how many plants do I need, by supplying pre-spaced metre long units of hedging that can be easily handled by one or two people.

This means that to order Readyhedge you just need to select a variety, select a height that you need and measure the distance in metres. It is as easy as that. We can deliver anywhere in the country and normally turn orders around within 48 hours.

Readyhedge comes in two different styles, Readyhedge troughs and Readyhedge bags which cover a range of heights and widths. Specialising purely in hedging means that all our hedges are grown with the love and attention that each variety needs. www.readyhedge.com

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READYHEDGE Choice.

01386 75058 lindsay@readyhedg e.com ma tthew@ rea dyhedge.com

Our instant hedging is available to order in a huge range of varieties and sizes, ready-spaced in troughs or Readybags.

www.rea dyhedge.com

Japanese Knotweed: It’s Knot to be Ignored The number of Japanese knotweed related cases going to court is increasing, with significant financial penalties for those that cause nuisance or have been negligent with respect to Japanese knotweed.

In 1981, Japanese knotweed was one of the first plants to be added to the Wildlife and Countryside Act, making it illegal to commercially sell or allow the plant to spread to the wild. Further acts of legislation from 1990 (The Environmental Protection Act 1990, Duty of Care Regulations 1991, and RPS 178) governed the handling and disposal of the plant and materials contaminated by the plant material.

Additionally, in recent years we have seen a sharp rise in private litigation cases surrounding Japanese knotweed. 2018 saw the first successful documented case law for Private Nuisance in respect to Japanese knotweed. Now claims for Private Nuisance and Professional Negligence are more commonplace, as well being served a Community Protection Notice (ASBO) with a fine for failing to act and control the spread of knotweed.

What to do if you find Japanese Knotweed It’s important to avoid disturbing the affected area to prevent spread of the contamination and also to manage the Japanese knotweed in an appropriate manner Do - Contact Japanese Knotweed Ltd so we can manage, control, and remove the problem for you.

- Fence the Japanese knotweed off if there is imminent risk of disturbance. Fencing should be erected 5-7 metres away from the visible growth to prevent disturbance of the plants’ underground rhizome. It should be clearly signed.

- Draw up a Knotweed Management Plan, especially if several contractors are to be involved on the site.

- Commence treatment/removal of Japanese knotweed as soon as possible after discovering its presence.

- Adhere to recommendations in the PCA Code of Practice for managing knotweed, when controlling or removing Japanese knotweed.

Don’t x Where possible allow works to commence on a development site without first drawing up a Knotweed Management Plan (KMP). x Allow contractors to undertake site work until it has been properly surveyed for the presence of knotweed. x Allow knotweed material to leave your site intentionally or unintentionally in a manner that will contravene the Environmental Protection Act and the Environmental Protection (Duty of Care) Regulations. x Allow Japanese knotweed to spread into adjacent properties, as this could contravene legislation and private nuisance laws leaving you vulnerable to third party litigation from your neighbour(s). x Flail or strim knotweed, as this will cause the Japanese knotweed to spread. x Store materials on top of Japanese knotweed areas, or the materials themselves could become contaminated with knotweed. x Chip Japanese knotweed material, as this could result in new Japanese knotweed growth wherever the chipped material is spread. x Add Japanese knotweed to compost, as this can lead to knotweed growing in your compost heap. x Burn Japanese knotweed as large rhizomes and crowns can survive burning.

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Options for Treating or Removing Japanese Knotweed Herbicide Treatment of Japanese Knotweed Often the most cost-effective Japanese knotweed treatment and control method is a Herbicide Treatment Programme (HTP).

An HTP involves methodical and carefully managed visits where the correct use of chemical over a sustained period will exhaust the plant and prevent the spread of knotweed. This will remove the risk of damage being caused to the property during the treatment period.

Complete, Instant Removal of Japanese Knotweed Excavating Japanese knotweed provides an instant eradication solution.

The appropriate excavation and waste disposal method will depend on access, restrictions, or presence of trees and services, development timescales and the proposed development plan. On-site sustainable methods such as burial may be appropriate where there is space to bury waste, such as public open space.

Alternatively, off-site disposal could be the only solution. This provides instant eradication of knotweed, although it’s the least sustainable method of knotweed eradication as the arising waste is transferred to landfill as “controlled waste”.

A professional knotweed company will aim to reduce the quantities of waste removed to landfill, thereby reducing the client’s costs.

This requires a Waste Carrier’s Licence, and the client should receive a full wastetracking record on completion.

Contact the Knotweed Experts Japanese Knotweed Ltd is a ‘safety first’ contractor, holding a range of safety SSIP and industry related accreditations.

These accreditations are supported by our commitment to provide the highest level of employee training, expertise, and customer service standards in the industry.

Telephone: 0333 2414 413 Email: contact@knotweed.co.uk Web: www.japaneseknotweed.co.uk

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Rare re-roof using Welsh Slate wins national award Greenough & Sons win in the 2021 Pitched Roofing Awards.

The renovation of a 17th Century listed café in the Snowdonia National Park, which incorporated some “rare” roofing methods using Welsh Slate, has won the contractors a national award.

Greenough & Sons, who are based on the Isle of Anglesey, were one of seven specialist sub-contractors shortlisted for the “Best use of a roof tile for a heritage roof,” category of the 2021 Pitched Roofing Awards.

Their 10-week work on the Grade II listed Y Sospan cafe in the town centre of Dolgellau in north-west Wales involved the use of mitred hips and “single-cut” swept valleys which were once traditional to the immediate area but are now extremely rare to see.

The project also featured the use of Welsh Slate’s Cwt Y Bugail blue grey slates in random diminishing courses to replicate the coursing of the original roof which had been coated with bitumen and subject to various unsuccessful localised repair attempts.

After the original roof was stripped and recorded, Greenough’s head-fixed the new slates with copper nails onto 50mm x 25mm battens over open rafters and a total of 210m2 of roof – the main, 40°-pitch area with 8-16” lengths, and a lower-pitched area with 22” lengths.

Greenough managing director Jon Greenough said: “The slate valleys, having no lead or any form of flashing, are an extremely difficult detail to get right, and only the most experienced slaters with local knowledge of their construction would be able to carry out these features to maintain the look, and just as importantly, keep the rain out.

“The random Cwt Y Bugail slates were the perfect match for authenticity. The best-quality slates gave the slaters confidence in the material they were using and provided the client with a product of unrivalled durability.” He added: “Much time was taken working with the architect and other industry

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experts in recording the existing details and ensuring the new roof replicated the original as closely as possible. The project was considered a great success by everyone involved, including the cafe owners.”

Architect Rhys Llwyd Davies explained that the roof was one of the main elements of the £210,000, year-long renovation of the café, which was formerly the town’s gaol (with the magistrates’ court on the first floor) as part of the Dolgellau Townscape Heritage Scheme - a project funded

by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Snowdonia National Park Authority, and Cadw and Gwynedd Council which had identified it as one of three “High priority buildings” needing attention.

The works were substantially funded under that scheme, although the café owners were apprehensive of using the purely traditional approach of oak pegs with the slates headbedded in lime, and wanted battens and a roofing membrane incorporated.

This was compatible with the objective of the renovation, which was to renovate the existing fabric, restoring lost architectural features where that was harmonious with current building use and introduce energy efficiency measures where appropriate.

Thus, the slates were fixed onto the battens over a breathable membrane which still allowed the traditional detailing to be used. The use of the battens was a particular interest for the listed building consent as they, rather than laths, slightly raised the roof’s surface.

Head lap was approximately one third as the work moved up the roof. Roof abutments with parapet walls and chimney abutments required the use of lead soakers and cover flashings, sometimes concealed to replicate the traditional appearance.

Rhys Llwyd Davies said: “The original roof was a random diminishing-course slate roof with regional detailing including mitred hips

and slated Welsh valleys. The design team worked together to reach a solution where large slates were used on the lower pitch, with an increased head-lap that provided both an improved solution against wind-driven rain but also replicated the former appearance.

“Welsh Slate were able to provide a product closely resembling the former roofing slates, also supplying the varying widths and lengths required to reinstate the roof installation. They were the best match for this historic listed building and a long-lasting material to satisfy the performance requirements. Sustainability was not a major factor in the decision making but as a long-lasting material we hope that it will not need to be renewed for a long time.”

He added: “We regularly specify Welsh Slate and learned of the opportunity to specify varying widths and lengths during an office CPD session. The client is more than satisfied with the slating works and feel it enhances their property.” Welsh Slate sales/technical manager John Owens said: “Our involvement with Rhys Llwyd Davies and Greenough & Sons Roofing early within the project phase allowed time for the special random diminishing Cwt Y Bugail slates to be produced to specifically meet the requirements of the building.

“The intricacies of the very traditional detailing, which have not been used for hundreds of years, require craft skills and an understanding of how slates work.

Throughout the roofing works we liaised with Greenough & Sons on site to ensure any requirement for special-sized slates were met.

“It is a pleasure to be involved in such interesting and challenging projects which are specified and carried out to the highest standards.”

As well as the roof, the rest of the property was also renovated, including re-pointing with hot-lime mortar, repairing windows, installing cast iron rainwater goods, and introducing a consistent scheme of signage to advertise the building’s use.

The winners of the 2021 Pitched Roofing Awards were announced in a virtual ceremony on February 26th.

The judges said: “An outstanding job that everyone involved in can be proud of. This project shows exceptional workmanship and true heritage works. It highlights great use of natural slate with some very traditional detailing. The overall appearance with stone walling looks fantastic.”

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Band of Builders charity partners with DEWALT® tools to support tradespeople through the toughest times - DEWALT®to donate power tools and other essential equipment to support Band of Builders renovation projects throughout 2021 - Partnership aims to accelerate awareness of charity’s profile - Initiatives will include DEWALT staff, trade customers and end users to boost project fundraising efforts National construction charity Band of Builders has teamed up with professional tools brand DEWALT®in a partnership that will provide help and support to tradespeople impacted by illness, injury or financial crisis across the UK. Band of Builders (BoB) is a registered charity that aids members of the construction industry when times get tough through hands-on support, as well as providing help and advice through its extensive online community.

The organisation was founded by tradesman Addam Smith in 2016 to assist his friend and fellow builder, Keith Ellick, after he was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Addam recruited volunteers from around the country to ensure that the home renovations Keith had originally commenced were completed for his family.

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Since then, the charity has undertaken numerous projects throughout England, Scotland and Wales to support trade professionals facing adversity or hardship.

As part of the collaboration, DEWALT will supply tools and equipment for volunteers to use during construction or renovation projects, and the company will also engage in a programme of activities throughout the year to raise vital funds and drive awareness of the charity’s essential work.

Gavin Crane, chair of the Board of Trustees at Band of Builders, commented, “We’re excited to welcome DEWALT as a partner this year. Having the backing of a global brand in this way will undoubtedly strengthen our profile and drive awareness on a larger scale than ever before. Our aim is to reach as many construction workers across the country as possible and having DEWALT championing our cause will enable us to communicate our message to a significantly larger audience. Most importantly, it will also allow us to help a greater number of beneficiaries over the coming months and years.”

Gavin added, “The pandemic has hampered many of our fundraising activities and projects over the last twelve

months, with countless events postponed or cancelled. With DEWALT’s support, we will be able to resume work almost immediately, and our goal is to complete many more projects throughout 2021.”

Chris Wayne, group marketing manager at DEWALT, said, “We are passionate about supporting the professional trade community and are eager to start work with Band of Builders – a hugely inspiring charity that is run by tradespeople, for tradespeople. This partnership is an important opportunity for DEWALT to give back to individuals within the industry who have backed our brand for many years. Our teams are extremely keen to participate on a personal level, to boost awareness and fundraising efforts, and provide a helping hand to professionals through the toughest of times.”

The next BoB project, Rob’s Project, will begin on March 13 at the home of a Solihull dad-of four left paralysed after a fall at home.

More information can be found at www.bandofbuilders.org.

Image Credits to Band of Builders Charity & DEWALT Tools

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Inspiring spaces A Simply Loft conversion is not just about taking a large dormant space and turning it into a bedroom. The property landscape in London is so diverse that many different properties can benefit from a loft conversion and no two Simply Loft projects are ever the same. Some projects involve large, ambitious builds, which create multiple rooms on different levels, whilst others make the biggest impact to a home utilising the smallest of spaces.

Simply Loft handle every aspect of a loft conversion from design and planning to construction. They ensure every client requirement is incorporated before their dedicated building team bring the project to life. No subcontracting, fixed prices, guaranteed timelines and dedicated project management - including their unique online tracking service; the Simply Dashboard - are all central to the way things are run at Simply Loft.

Simply Loft take pride in delivering one of the best all in one loft conversion packages in London and here are just a few examples of their most inspiring work: Bringing heaven to the home Build cost: £90k Build time: 12 Weeks Location: Bennerley Road Loft type: Front and Rear Mansard Loft Conversion with Roof Terrace.

Brief: Simply Loft designed and built this front and rear mansard loft conversion to a 3-storey mid-terrace house. We created a new living space for our clients to relax and enjoy their hobbies in, as well as an inset office space and gorgeous roof terrace. We also refurbished a bathroom on the floor below this loft conversion.

Description: Simply Loft created a haven within the home for our clients, creating a stunning meditation room that opens out to a stunning roof terrace that overlooks the busy city. The new space created by this loft conversion is multi-functional

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in every way, with a small office space created in the inset of the terrace.

The main living area can be used as a meditation space, artist’s studio, reading room or perfect entertaining area on those warm summer nights in London.

There are so many stand-out features with this project, including the floor to ceiling glazing in the office inset, that brings in all the light you need to stay focused. You can complete all of your work whilst catching those beautiful rays of sunshine that are so important for making us feel healthy and happy. This is a true testament to how a loft conversion like this can not only improve your home, but also your happiness and wellbeing, giving you the space you need to take a step away from the world and breathe.

Simply Loft refurbished an existing bathroom in this home, creating a very natural, zen bathroom with a tiled bathing area and walk-in shower. The colours and patterns in this room in particular transport your mind to a humid jungle, with the leafy wallpaper, dark green furnishings and wooden touches around the room.

The strong Aztec-style patterns used throughout this loft conversion create interesting spaces which steal your attention and set the relaxed ambience our clients want their guests to experience.

Client testimonial: ‘The Simply Loft team were great, they were incredibly polite and courteous (important as I was at home with a tiny baby) and I’m really pleased with quality of the work on the loft. I had to call them back for a minor thing, several months after they had left, and they arrived within a couple of days and fixed it. Very pleased with the quality of after-care.’ – Trish.

A Simply Loft conversion is 100% bespoke and can be carried out on just about any kind of loft space. To unlock the potential in your home visit www.simplyloft.co.uk or call 0800 917 7571 to discuss your specific requirements and book a free no obligation survey.

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Caribbean Blinds partners with local landscaper for ‘most creative’ Outdoor Living Pod™ installation Last summer, luxury external shading manufacturer Caribbean Blinds completed its most ‘creative’ installation of one of its most popular products, the Outdoor Living Pod™, in collaboration with an exceptional landscaping firm.

During the early design stages of a complete garden renovation project in Hemel Hempstead in November 2019, Limebok Landscaping contacted the outdoor shading experts for their assistance.

The garden transformation began in February 2020, with Caribbean Blinds undertaking a detailed survey in midMarch. The Outdoor Living Pod™ was installed in late May, taking just two days to complete.

Stuart Dantzic, Managing Director of Caribbean Blinds, explained: “In May last year, we installed the Deluxe model of our award-winning Outdoor Living Pod™ for a client who required a

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low-maintenance pergola to seamlessly link their newly built outdoor bar and kitchen area and provide an all-weather socialising spot for the adults, whilst allowing a full and unobstructed view of the children’s play area.

The end result was a dedicated ‘zone’ that the client can use to simply relax in or entertain friends and family with no disruption from the elements due to the all-weather pergola that cleverly adapts to the changing ambient conditions.

Stuart added: “Our committed team were on hand throughout the entire process to discuss every detail with both the landscaper and client, with a shared vision of the end result. When confirming details such as screen materials, hardware colours and finishes, and lighting and heating options, every ‘zone’ on site was taken into consideration to ensure that all elements of the garden would flow.”

The client explained: “It’s no secret that the UK weather is extremely unreliable, so this was at the forefront of our minds when designing our garden.

We wanted a space for the whole family to enjoy during the summer months, but still be able to utilise throughout the colder, wetter and windier months too. After a lot of research, we decided to purchase the Caribbean Blinds Outdoor Living Pod™.

“When the team came to carry out their survey, we decided to add a central leg to split the blind up and create a doorway.

They were so accommodating and made us feel at ease throughout the entire process. The Pod is, without a doubt, the feature of our garden, and we couldn’t be happier with the results.

“Whether someone is cooking on the outdoor BBQ or mixing up cocktails behind the bar, the spaces link together effortlessly, providing a feeling of inclusion for everyone to enjoy. Furthermore, the adults can enjoy their time together in their grown-up space without worrying about the children in the play area.”

Limebok Landscaping commented: “We introduced our client to Caribbean Blinds whilst working on a large-scale garden landscaping project. Our client was very impressed with the no-nonsense, professional service they received and the quality of the Outdoor Living Pod™. On site, we found the installation team to be fantastic – they were courteous, hardworking, knowledgeable and extremely efficient. The pergola was a brilliant addition to the garden we designed and featured heavily in our finished photos, which were incredibly popular across our social media channels. We look forward to the next install of Caribbean Blinds on one of our projects.”

Ingeniously designed for those who want to live life outdoors, the Caribbean Blinds Outdoor Living Pod™ provides the ultimate luxury, all-weather, outdoor living space that gives the customer complete control of the elements, 365 days a year.

For more information, visit: www.cbsolarshading.co.uk

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Floating Home Floating home by i29 architects is part of Schoonschip, a new floating village of 46 households that aims to create Europe’s most sustainable floating community.

Commissioned by CPO Schoonschip an urban plan was made and over 100 residents moved into and revitalized a disused canal and established themselves a living on the water. The location has a strong industrial past but today it is one of the most rapid changing city parts of Amsterdam transforming into a more multi functional living area. The new floating neighborhood is intended to be an urban ecosystem embedded within the fabric of the city: making full use of ambient energy and water for use and re-use, cycling nutrients and minimizing waste, plus creating space for natural biodiversity.

The site is energy self-sufficient, employs circular building practices and serves as a showcase for sustainable living. A smart jetty connects the 46 floating households with each other and the quay.

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On the top surface, the jetty is a social connector where people meet. Down below the surface, the jetty is a functional and sustainable connector with all the energy, waste and water lines attached to every household connected together.

Within the smart grid of the village and the given boundaries of every water plot, every single home is able to be unique in architecture and interior design. All inhabitants were allowed to choose their own preferred architect. Our client challenged us to design a home which would maximize the space within the volume boundaries of the plot and still have a typical yet surprising house shape.

The floating volume has a pitched roof, but the coping of the roof is turned diagonal in the floor plan which gives an optimization in usable space on the inside and an outspoken architectural design on the outside.

To i29, architecture and interior designs are always intertwined and connected on each level to make a clear and unified experience.

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The floating home exterior design is the result of a space extensional study within the interior and vice versa. All areas are in open connection to the atrium which comprises three floors. The layout is extended with a split level connection to a loggia terrace just above water level. The interior and facade play with the views on the outside. Views appear and disappear while moving through the home. The basement offers direct water level views, the living room only gives a view on the surroundings when sitting in the lounge and the kitchen on the top floor has directed views towards the south and north side of the canal. On the top floor, a cut out of the roof enables a loggia and open terrace with a view towards the harbor in the west .

With simple yet smart interventions this project is realized on a tight budget but still has a unified architecture and interior design that leaves a strong impression.

At the same time the floating home is extremely energy efficient, eco-friendly, and built with a small footprint. Sustainability goes even to a higher level with the implementation in the smart grid of the floating village. Energy can be even more valuable when you share it.

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Net zero show homes open for virtual tours Innovative home appliances, solar panels, HVAC technologies and consumer electronics from LG Electronics are delivering high performance, connectivity, convenience, and energy efficiency to The New American Home® (TNAH) and The New American Remodel® (TNAR), the official show homes of the 2021 International Builders’ Show® virtual experience (IBSx) which took place earlier this month in Orlando, Florida, USA. The International Builders’ Show is the annual event sponsored by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the largest US trade group representing the home building industry.

Located in the heart of central Florida, TNAH and TNAR 2021 are state-of-theart showcase houses illustrating how any home can be transformed into a high-performance, high-tech space when integrating today’s building and appliance innovations to reduce energy consumption, increase efficiency and enhance daily life. Seven-time ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year LG Electronics was named NAHB Platinum Partner for both Net Zero homes.

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Net Zero Homes

Renewable Energy

TNAH and TNAR encompass advanced, high performance products and functionality that homeowners look for when building, purchasing or renovating. Both homes have achieved the U.S. National Green Building Standard Emerald certification, ENERGY STAR Building certification, and Net Zero status from the U.S. Green Building Council:

Key to TNAH’s and TNAR’s environmental sustainability and appealing designs are rooftop installations of high-efficiency solar modules from residential renewable energy leader LG Business Solutions.

Forty LG NeON® 2 60-cell modules help power each home to support their Net Zero designs. These popular highefficiency modules generate more power from the same amount of sunlight than lower-efficiency modules of the same size while blending in unobtrusively to the look and feel of the home’s design.

TNAH 2021 is a stunning, three-level single-family home that showcases the latest designs centered on urban living.

The new 514-square-meter abode – the latest project from Phil Kean Designs – consists of three bedrooms, four full baths and one half-bath, a showroom three-car garage, innovative exercise room, and ultra-energy efficient, net-zero features.

TNAR 2021, built in 1973, draws lineage from Frank Lloyd Wright architecture.

Renovated by E2 Homes, the 722-squaremeter home features a sleek chef’s kitchen, as well as six bedrooms, six bathrooms and two half bathrooms, ultra-energy-efficiency products, and a fully furnished cabana and an outdoor entertaining area with a large pool, spa and lanai.

Chef’s Kitchens The chef’s kitchens in both homes feature built-in appliances – advanced pro-style ranges, column refrigerators, freezers, wine refrigerators and more – from LG’s fast-growing luxury brand, Signature Kitchen Suite. In addition to ENERGY STAR certified refrigerators and dishwashers, Signature Kitchen Suite appliances featured in the homes include first-ever innovations: pro-ranges with built-in sous vide functionality, along with induction and gas, wine column

refrigerators with exclusive “Wine Cave” technology to better preserve at-home collections, and a unique built-in undercounter convertible dual-drawer refrigerator.

Smart Laundry Appliances Energy efficient laundry appliances in TNAH and TNAR deliver added convenience and offer advanced technologies, elevated designs and designer-grade finishes.

Featured innovations from the LG Builder division include the ENERGY STAR certified LG WashTower, an industry-first single-unit, vertical laundry solution takes up half the floor space, elevating consumers’ laundry experience while still tackling ultra-large loads. TNAH incorporates the new LG Studio WashTower in the exclusive Noble Steel finish, while TNAR features the LG WashTower in white, both complemented by LG Styler clothing care systems, which are certified “asthma & allergy friendly” by the Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America.

Efficient Air Conditioning Systems Featuring efficient HVAC systems and controls from LG, TNAR embeds advanced comfort solutions that support the home’s Net Zero status and complement its unique design characteristics. TNAR boasts two award-winning LG Multi V™ S 5-ton Heat Recovery outdoor units. They are connected to a number of LG Vertical Air Handler units, which feature LG’s efficient inverter technology and offer discrete and flexible installation. Customizable comfort can be controlled via wall-mount controls or with a smartphone using the LG ThinQ app.

Tours of the homes are offered virtually.

Visit The New American Home’s virtual experience and The New American Remodel’s virtual experience to learn more about the construction process, as well as the final showcase homes. The final version of the homes will be available indefinitely on buildersshow.com.

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What the new government incentives mean for young professionals and downsizers Following the government’s budget announcement which included an extension to the stamp duty holiday and a new 95% mortgage guarantee scheme, property experts have outlined the ways in which young professionals and downsizers can take advantage of these incentives in the housing market.

From extended deadlines, to new opportunities to buy earlier, experts from selling agent FHP Living, and joint developers Monk Estates and Harmony Bridge of The Waterside Apartments – a 121-home iconic waterfront complex on the banks of the River Trent - share intel on what these new initiatives mean for different buyers.

The deadline for the stamp duty holiday is now 30 June, offering homebuyers the chance to avoid paying stamp duty land tax on properties up to the value of £500,000, presenting a considerable potential saving. After the 30 June

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deadline, the stamp duty holiday will apply to properties up to the value of £250,000 until the end of September.

Fortunately for prospective homebuyers, this unlocks more opportunities in terms of the scale and types of properties available. A two-bedroom apartment at The Waterside Apartments, for example, with floor to ceiling height windows, a Juliet balcony and sweeping views across the river and Nottingham city centre’s skyline is £390,000, and without the stamp duty holiday, buyers would normally need to be pay £4,500 stamp duty tax on this property.

Young professionals, first time buyers and those looking to downsize to a new property can also take advantage of the 95% mortgage scheme, which is due to start from April 2021.

Over the past year, the majority of lenders stopped offering 95% mortgages due to economic uncertainty, and as part of

the government’s efforts to bolster the property market following lockdown restrictions, the new 95% scheme allows prospective homebuyers with smaller deposits, the chance to access a range of mortgages that vanished during the pandemic.

To facilitate the scheme in the long term, the government has stepped in to cover some of the risk, by guaranteeing the remaining portion of the mortgage over 80% to the lender, should a new homeowner fail to pay their mortgage.

This acts as a safety net to lenders – encouraging them to start offering low-deposit mortgages once again, with many major banks also saying that they will come on board, giving buyers a wider range of deals to choose from.

It means that professionals looking to buy a home close to the city, or downsizers wanting to move to a smaller property only have to put down a 5% deposit,

going up to a 9% maximum deposit, on the home of their choice. For a one-bedroom property at The Waterside Apartments, situated within walking distance of Nottingham city centre and the sought-after location of West Bridgford – at a price of £220,000, only an £11,000 deposit would be required.

“That, plus the introduction of the 95% mortgage guarantee scheme from April, has opened up the property market to anyone looking to get on the housing ladder for the first time, or for anyone who wants to move to a new home that is more suited to their current lifestyles following lockdown.

This is good news for those on the hunt for a new home, as the scheme is open to everyone – not just first timers – on properties that are going to be the buyers’ main residence (i.e. not to let out), up to the value of £600,000.

“As a leading estate agent, we are proud to market a number of high-quality residential developments in the Nottingham area, as new homes are continually being built, including The Waterside Apartments, which offer buyers excellent opportunities to save across a range of price brackets.”

Director at FHP Living and selling agent for The Waterside Apartments, Steve Parker, said: “The stamp duty holiday extension has been met with great optimism and relief from the property industry and would-be buyers – it allows those on the hunt for a new home, more time to progress with their searches and transactions, presenting the opportunity to make considerable savings in the process.

“The Waterside is now fully complete and the uptake and response from buyers and residents has been phenomenal. Prices start from £215,000, and we still have 28 apartments remaining, so we encourage interested buyers to come and take a look at the luxury properties on offer, for a taste of the waterside lifestyle.”

For more information head over to fhpliving.co.uk and thewatersideapartments.co.uk

Sam Monk, director at Monk Estates, said: “Following an incredibly challenging year for many industries, businesses and the general public, these initiatives will go a long way in keeping the property market buoyant and consistent – supporting the UK economy as a whole and encouraging anyone considering their next property move to take the plunge with these fantastic incentives.

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Norway’s magical care retreat for those in need Kebony-clad wooden cabins provide natural escape for hospital patients

Located in verdant woodland just a stone’s throw from the entrance of Norway’s largest hospital, two sensitively designed wooden shelters are aspiring to make hospitalisation easier and more comfortable for patients and their families.

The two naturally crafted Kebony-clad outdoor care retreats offer patients and visitors much-needed physical and mental respite from hospital treatment by providing them with a calm oasis to rest in the beautiful Norwegian forest.

Originally developed in collaboration with the Department of Psychosomatics and Child Psychiatry at Oslo University Hospital, the 35sqm secluded wooden shelters were designed to provide a peaceful space where visitors can truly experience nature. disease management and mental health. Surrounded by fresh air, the unique natural setting allows patients to gather strength and nurture their mind, which can be of great benefit long-term disease management and mental health.

Inside, visitors are able to star gaze through the circular ceiling window whilst children play around them, helping patients to distract themselves from the hospital environment. The large windows can be fully opened, inviting the outside world in, whilst the interior is fully clad in oak, echoing the woodlands outside. The cabins have also been adapted for both wheelchairs and hospital beds to give access to the most unwell patients.

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Internationally acclaimed architecture and design firm Snøhetta selected Kebony, a global leader in the production of sustainable wood, to clad the exterior of the cabins due to the wood’s natural, warm aesthetic. In addition, the extensive use of the sustainably-sourced Kebony contributes to the cabin’s reduced carbon footprint, and requires little to no maintenance. The atmosphere inside the cabins is both warm and welcoming and offers a positive, long-lasting benefits to those most in need.

Developed in Norway, Kebony’s revolutionary technology is an environmentally friendly and patented process which modifies sustainably sourced softwoods by heating the wood with furfuryl alcohol - an agricultural byproduct. By polymerising the wood’s cell wall, the softwoods permanently take on the attributes of tropical hardwood including high durability, hardness and dimensional stability. This unique process also provides Kebony with its characteristic appearance, which only grows more beautiful with time.

Mette Valen, Sales Manager Norway at Kebony added: “The cabins look beautiful within the natural surroundings and we were delighted to work closely with Snohetta to help them create this wonderful project. It has been very special to contribute to such an important and rewarding project in Norway.”

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How a pandemic reshapes the office How does an office need to work to make it through the pandemic – and even more importantly: How will the office work after the pandemic?

The COVID-19 pandemic has once again profoundly changed the way we see the office. During the pandemic, offices have had to be remodelled and adjusted to take necessary precautions, so that people feel safe there and can still be productive. The international office expert Bene presents with “THE CORE by Bene” a global office concept on how to navigate these challenging times.

Bene summarises its observations, as well as the challenges and opportunities in relation to the future of the working world, in three key themes: The obvious: During the pandemic, offices need to be remodelled and adjusted to meet necessary safety measures so that people feel safe and can be productive. Concepts need to be developed to fulfil these needs.

The higher pace: The way we work is constantly evolving, many aspects of which, such as new styles of leadership and digitalisation, have been significantly accelerated by the pandemic.

Collaboration, interaction and the purpose of work are now at the forefront of the discussion and will gain greater importance in the post-pandemic world of work.

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The big stress test: We are currently experiencing the biggest stress test for remote work and the home office. Even the organisations that were reticent have seen how agile working can be utilised for the benefit of the business and employees.

However, the workspace is still a vital part of the office landscape from face-to-face exchanges with colleagues, facilitating idea generation, as well as developing and maintaining strong corporate cultures.

“Meeting and communication zones are becoming increasingly important in the office,” says Michael Fried Executive Board member for Sales, Marketing & Innovation at Bene. “The office gives space for ideas and opportunities. It becomes a motor for innovation. The focus is more on teamwork and less on individual work.”

Through the enormous wave of digitalisation it brought about, COVID-19 has accelerated this process even more and has significantly changed the requirements we place on a modern office. Bene developed this office concept to meet these current and future requirements.

THE CORE by Bene The office is the physical “core” of an organisation, the heart of a company, a place where people and ideas come together, creating opportunities for spontaneous social interaction and collaborative and agile work, and where shared management and fluid leadership can evolve.

THE CORE by Bene is a global concept that can already be experienced at the Bene showroom in Frankfurt; a live, immersive and

experiential space to study how our places of work have adapted, and how they will further evolve after the pandemic.

With the ideal mix between open spatial structure and shielded areas, THE CORE

by Bene manages the balancing act between distance and teamwork so that people feel comfortable and can work creatively at the same time, comprising: Hygiene concepts and sensor technology Innovative technologies and smart room solutions ensure safety throughout the premises. This starts at the check-in area with temperature screening and registering for ‘track and trace’, followed with contact-free hand disinfection. The system will then give a green light to lead the visitor to a prior selected and cleaned workstation.

Spatial awareness The focus of the entire office space is on teamwork and exchange, all the while maintaining the correct distance. Anchor points in the form of furniture are clearly placed in collaboration areas to ensure correct distancing. The room configurations

are designed in such a way that they can be adapted to changing needs at short notice, giving the office breathing space.

In addition, moveable partition walls and partition elements can be used as protective barriers.

technology throughout enables collation and analysis of data to determine which spatial settings are particularly popular.

A new kind of exchange and interaction

“Modern office concepts are characterised by more communal areas that can be used flexibly and can be easily adapted to a wide range of requirements. The importance of the office as a hub for information, corporate culture and social interaction is growing.

Offices must convey a sense of security, orientation and trust in order to continue to be inspiring places for people to meet and be creative in the future”, says Michael Fried.

There is a wide choice of spaces for project and teamwork, in addition to the team workspace and an informal meeting area. Other areas enable spontaneous stand-up meetings, ensuring an optimal exchange of ideas.

The learning office “The office is a living organism that is constantly evolving and adapting to changing structures and the latest processes in a company or team. It is important to think about these plans and space concepts on a regular basis and make sure they are still serving their purpose”, says Patricia Möckesch, Product & Innovation Ambassador at Bene.

No-one knows exactly how or when the pandemic will end but there is no doubt that it has altered the office landscape immeasurably. With THE CORE concept you can constantly learn. The sensor

Revisions and improvements can be continually made to create the most efficient and effective workplaces.

Focusing on user experience, Bene has developed and already implemented this holistic and contemporary office landscape in Frankfurt in collaboration with other experts such as Giulio Castegini from Drees & Sommer, Norman Kustos from neotares Consult and Iulia Patricia Manea from Holger Meyer Architektur.

Because the world of work and the office environment are already in a state of flux, through the analysis of the data it provides, THE CORE will not lose its relevance, even after the pandemic.

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Silva international Spaces of ironic severity Andrea Auletta Interiors has ventured into this London space in “absence of gravity” upon request of a Client who conceived the space of this office as a corporate space and a management venue for financial and wealth operations, not as a place that has to do with design logics. For a curious and versatile interior designer, passionate as Andrea Auletta, this represents a true challenge.

In this metaphysical space, Andrea Auletta plays with forms and spaces, within pure abstractions and balances. The Silva International offices based in London have been designed with solemn mineral materials starting from the reception where a desk with essential forms faces the equally essential but soft forms of the seats in the waiting room. Black and white tones remain sober as the company’s logo.

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Corridors leading to the offices are bright and play dialectically with curves and straight lines of the glass surface frame.

The meeting room suggests power and dominion or perhaps just know-how and control and it is enlightened by imposing hanging lights designed to convey light together with a feeling of clearness.

The other meeting rooms are smaller and compact in the structure suggesting intimacy and secrecy always dominated by the cone of light.

The outside world is like a distant reality that should not disturb the Financial activities.

The technical equipment related to heating and lighting system of the rooms is hidden, and this creates a space to work quietly.

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The world’s first connected soundproof pod Framery One is the latest booth design from Framery, distributed by Welltek.

Not only does Framery One look the business, but it incorporates the latest technology, plus leading sound insulation standards and echo-free acoustics, making the it the most stylish and smart place to work.

Cleverly integrating with your laptop’s calendar system, you can easily book a slot in Framery One or, if the pod is free, simply step inside, safe in the knowledge that it will then be reserved just for you automatically, with the red occupancy light featuring 360° visibility letting others know not to disturb you.

Once inside this highly-adaptable workspace, you won’t be distracted, allowing you to focus on your next great idea. No need to worry about privacy - the pod’s impressive sound insulation ensures you can’t be overheard and noise from colleagues or visitors won’t be audible.

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Work in the way that suits you best with Framery One. An electric, height-adjustable table accommodates laptops, personal devices and workplace essentials. The table can also be positioned vertically while the seat can also be height adjusted or if you work best on your feet, choose it without. You can easily adjust the brightness of the light and even the airflow can be altered at a tap of the touchscreen, enabling you to stay fresh and focussed.

Never stay out of touch either as Framery One has an integrated 4G module which keeps you, the pod and Framery updated about new features, calendar issues or maintenance requests. No slouch when it comes to style, Framery One comes with a range of stunning colour options for the exterior panel, interior panel, seat fabric and carpet.

Framery One combines best-in-class design and world-leading technology, which allows you to stay connected, focused and comfortable.

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Casalgrande Padana’s offering for ceramic façade cladding Innovative cladding systems allow for the installation of highly functional ceramic materials while enhancing the thermo-hygrometric qualities of the walls.

Ventilated façades A ventilated façade is a dry-mounted cladding system bound to the building through mechanical suspension and anchoring elements. This system requires the creation of an appropriately sized cavity where to insert a thermal insulation panel in contact with the building wall and a chamber for upward air circulation (stack effect).

A ventilated façade protects the building against weather agents and pollutants.

It also ensures thermal and sound insulation. A ventilated façade protects the wall structure, ensures energy saving, eliminates thermal bridges and surface condensation, improves aesthetics, and maintains the aesthetic and technical features over time. All these reasons make it one of the most effective cladding systems.

Casalgrande Padana’s wide range of ceramic tiles, available in various size, colours, and textures, is suitable for both exposed and concealed mechanical anchoring. This, together with the larger tiles, allows designers to create large vertical, sloping, or curved surfaces that express their architectural ideas.

Ventilated façades can be applied to public buildings, shopping and business centres, industrial complexes, and residential buildings. A ventilated façade with Casalgrande Padana porcelain stoneware tiles also ensures affordable and aesthetically pleasing results in both new and restored buildings.

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Façade cladding with glued ceramic tiles With this system, the porcelain stoneware tile is applied directly to the reinforced concrete structure with safety anchors between the glue and the tile.

Casalgrande Padana allows you to choose between two systems: one with exposed anchors and one with concealed anchors. In the former, the ceramic tiles are glued directly to the substrate using the double glue-down technique.

Metal plates with visible anchors are mechanically fastened between the glue and the tile through expansion plugs and nails. In the latter, special incisions are made on the back of the ceramic tiles to house the metal anchors.

Insulation systems using special thin tiles An insulation system consists in applying thermal insulation panels on the external walls to create one single covering. Such a system improves a building’s energy performance and eliminates thermal bridges – which cause heat dispersion – as well as condensation and mould.

Ceramic tiles only 4.9 mm thick ensure a wide array of benefits. They are easier to handle, work, cut, and drill. They are easy to clean and maintain and help reduce the load on the bearing structure. They even have a lower environmental impact, as fewer raw materials and energy resources are used to make them.

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Bios Self Cleaning for self-cleaning façades Casalgrande Padana’s Bios SelfCleaning® porcelain stoneware tiles are specific for façades and ventilated envelopes. They feature self-cleaning properties and reduce NOx emissions (nitrogen oxides), among the primary pollutants in urban areas. Bios SelfCleaning® features the excellent performance and aesthetic qualities of porcelain stoneware cladding and drastically reduces cleaning and maintenance. All this translates into significant savings while maintaining the quality and characteristics of the architecture.

By reducing NOx emissions, Bios Self-Cleaning® helps improve the environmental quality of urban settings.

Using Bios Self-Cleaning® over a façade surface of 150 m2 purifies the air as much as a wooded area as big as a football pitch. It also eliminates the nitrogen oxides emitted by 11 cars throughout a day.

These elegant and refined tiles are frost-resistant, non-absorbent, have high flexural strength, and resist against weather agents and pollutants. They are the perfect façade solution, whether the building is new or needs to be redeveloped, and whether they are installed using traditional systems or with insulation systems.

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An abstract design approach to inspire creativity The Barbara Hepworth building is home to the University of Huddersfield’s School of Art, Design and Architecture.

Experimental in its design and function it was designed to inspire creativity by bringing together students and staff from different creative courses.

The abstract design approach of local artist, Barbara Hepworth, one of the most prominent figures of 20th century design is reflected in the architecture. An example is seen in the building’s unique façade constructed using Schüco systems. It features a laser-cut veil inspired by the textiles and the history of the neighbouring mills and given a contemporary and abstract twist. Each aluminium panel was individually designed by architects, AHR. In addition to achieving their practical purpose of helping to provide solar shading, the panels also reference the use of geometry and abstractionism by Barbara Hepworth.

A key challenge of the design was supporting these large feature solar shading panels, in particular the seven metre spans on the façade above the entranceThe façade was designed and supplied using Schüco FWS 60 curtain walling. Schüco created a bespoke FWS 60 system with brackets designed to tolerate the additional weight and movement of the laser cut panels.

Another bespoke element of the Schüco design incorporated oversized 2000 mm high AWS 114 concealed vents, with automatic actuators where windows were above head height to allow natural ventilation into the building.

The building’s entrance features Schüco ADS 65 HD double doors which open into a spacious atrium with views throughout the space culminating in an 18 metre cantilever over the neighbouring canal.

Schüco systems fulfil all the fundamental principles of sustainable product development which made the company a natural fit for this building which was designed to achieve BREEAM Excellent with an EPC rating of A. Robert Hopkins, Regional Director and Project Lead at AHR, said, “We chose to work with Schüco on this ambitious project for its specialist knowledge and experience in designing bespoke systems.

“The high quality Schüco systems incorporated in the design were fundamental to bringing our vision of the building’s façade to life. The building’s transparency gives passersby an intriguing glimpse of the creative processes and advanced technologies at work within.”

The building’s striking design incorporating Schüco systems and products has won awards at the LABC West Yorkshire Building Excellence Awards 2020, Northern Design Awards 2019 and Construction Excellence National Awards 2019. The building was also selected in outstanding shortlists for the RIBA Yorkshire Awards 2020 and Education Estates Project of the Year Colleges & Universities 2020.

The Barbara Hepworth building advances how design education is delivered. It nurtures a new and inspired generation of designers within one flexible hub that meets the University’s evolving needs and significantly supports the region. It is now a landmark in Huddersfield town centre inspiring the next generation of architects honing their craft within its walls.

For more information on Schüco systems head over to www.schueco.com

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How modern facade paints can help with refurbishment projects Kevin Davies of Sto Ltd examines some of the latest developments in façade paints and finishes, and the advantages they offer for today’s refurbishment projects.

Restoring building façades to their best can be a tough challenge when rain, dirt and environmental pollution all begin to exert their damaging influence the moment the task is complete. Fortunately, there are paint finishes on today’s market which can help fight those influences and keep the building looking its best for far longer than previously. Extensive research into this field has produced innovative new paints which are proven to help maintain a building’s appearance. These really are the paints of the future, so it’s worth taking a closer look at them.

The natural look One of these paints borrows inspiration from the natural world, and creates a surface which mimics the shell of the fogbasking beetle that lives in dry, dessert terrains. The shell of the beetle has a unique surface of micro-textures which simultaneously repel water droplets falling onto it, and channel them away quickly and effectively.

Using a special combination of binding agents and filler material, this advanced paint replicates both the texture and water-handling characteristics of the beetle’s shell. When exposed to rainwater or dew, the building’s façade dries out far more rapidly than with a conventional paint finish, to prevent staining, marking or the growth of algae. Being suitable for use on all conventional substrates – and available in a huge range of colours - this paint is ideal for refurbishment projects, and creates a façade finish that can significantly reduce refurbishment and cleaning requirements in the future.

A new leaf Borrowing techniques from nature has also led to the development of another advanced, highly effective water and dirtrepellent render paint. This has a special formulation which recreates the surface found on the leaf of the Lotus plant. It creates a similar surface texture on the exterior of the building, which encourages any rain falling on it to run off in large droplets. As it does so, it takes loose particles of dirt and debris with it, effectively washing the surface clean

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every time it rains. Once again, this selfcleaning action makes the surface far less susceptible to staining over time, meaning that maintenance and refurbishment requirements are significantly reduced.

This paint is also equally well suited to use on new or existing renders, so it should be given serious consideration when a building façade is due to be refurbished.

This type of matt-finish façade paint uses special NIR (Near Infra-Red) pigments that reflect the solar energy falling on the façade and keep the outer surface of the render cool, thus protecting the render itself and preventing cracking.

This effectively removes all the thermal limits which have previously inhibited the use of dark renders on buildings.

Even black finishes are now possible, and while this keeps the architect happy, it also reduces future maintenance and refurbishment requirements.

So next time a building’s façade is due for a refurbishment, it’s well worth paying close attention to the available façade finish options. Making the correct decisions at this stage can have a major impact and help extend future maintenance intervals significantly.

A dark solution Keen to achieve a particular creative impact with their buildings, architects and building designers can create thermally insulated façade designs covered with a dramatic dark-coloured render. This however, can cause significant problems from a maintenance perspective.

When dark renders absorb solar heat - sometimes reaching temperatures of up to 80°C – a building’s façade may overheat, causing expansion and dimensional instability in the render.

The cracking which occurs in the render creates a maintenance challenge which usually needs to be dealt with immediately, before water ingress begins to cause damage. Fortunately, there is a modern façade paint which can help eliminate this problem.

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UK’s biggest telehandler hirer places £26 Million loadall order The UK’s biggest telehandler hirer is expanding its fleet further - by placing an order for £26 million worth of JCB Loadall models.

Ardent Hire Solutions is adding 525 new JCB Loadall telescopic handlers to its fleet as the UK construction hire equipment market rebounds strongly from the Covid-19 pandemic. The order spans the compact 525-60 to the 540200 models, which have reaches of between six and 20 metres.

The machines – supplied by JCB dealer Watling JCB - have already started rolling off the production line at JCB’s World HQ in Rocester, Staffordshire along with 25 3CX backhoe loaders, which are also part of the massive deal. If follows a deal in 2019 from Ardent for £75 million worth of JCB machines. JCB Group Managing Director for Global Major Accounts Steve Fox said: “We are delighted that

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Ardent Hire Solutions has placed this substantial order with JCB given the very competitive nature of the UK equipment supply market. The size of the order shows enormous faith in the quality of JCB’s machines and also underlines the need to invest in new machinery to support the growth in the UK construction industry, which continues to recover strongly after the Covid-19 pandemic.”

London-headquartered Ardent Hire Solutions is one of the UK’s biggest plant hire companies and covers the length and breadth of Great Britain through 11 hire depots, from Glasgow in the north to Fareham in the south. Specialising in providing plant hire to major housing, civil and construction clients,

Ardent is constantly investing in the most technologically advanced machines. It has more than 7,000 units for rent with an average age of less than three years.

The new JCB machines all come with JCB LiveLink telematics technology, providing real-time feeds to support Ardent’s award-winning ‘Site Manager’ digital platform which helps construction companies improve safety, increase productivity and reduce cost.

Ardent’s Chief Financial Officer, Julian O’Neill said: “Our telehandler fleet is already the largest anywhere in the UK and this substantial investment strengthens our position in the telescopic handler hire sector.”

Volkswagen commercial vehicles unveils new Transporter T6.1 Sportline The Sportline, which is available to order from late March ahead of deliveries from July, is available in short or long wheelbase versions, and as either a Kombi or panel van. It features a range of unique sporty styling additions and technology upgrades, ensuring the perfect combination of sport and comfort.

Design The Transporter 6.1 Sportline comes with a host of sporty exterior and interior styling details. The front features a red contrast grille strip and a new bumper, while at the rear there is an eye-catching new spoiler, all of which are exclusive to the Sportline range. The suspension has also been lowered by 30mm, and illuminated side bars added.

The sporty design extends to the choice of wheels, with 18” alloys available in a gloss black. The Sportline also debuts a range of new stand out metallic colours for the vehicle in Indium Grey, Fortana Red, Ravenna Blue and Copper Bronze giving the vehicles a distinct premium edge.

The interior of the new T6.1 Sportline matches its premium yet sporty exterior, featuring a luxury Nappa leather and

suede trim with honeycomb stitching branded with the Sportline logo. A Sportline Black Edition will also be available, priced from £45,140*, offering an exclusive alloy wheel colour, matt black side bars, Eibach coilover suspension, ‘Black Edition’ decals, 90% rear window tint on Kombi models, and a Sportline gift box.

Comfort & Technology The new Sportline range also offers the latest comfort and convenience features, building on the range-topping Highline trim. This includes heated front seats and a cutting-edge digital cockpit – available on a panel van or Kombi for the first time - in addition to the DAB radio, climatic air conditioning, front windscreen heating, and a Discover Media Navigation system.

This is upgraded to Discover Media Pro Navigation, featuring a 9.2” colour touchscreen, for Black Edition models.

The advanced technology integrated in the T6.1 Sportline is there to assist drivers if needed, ensuring a smooth and comfortable drive. A rear-view camera, LED headlights with high beam assist, front and rear parking sensors, Adaptive

Cruise Control with City Emergency Braking and an anti-theft alarm system with interior monitoring are all specified as standard.

Engine & Performance The Transporter’s range-topping 2.0-litre TDI 204 PS engine with 7-speed DSG gearbox is standard across all T6.1 Sportline models. This is capable of 0-62mph in 8.9 seconds with a top speed of 126mph.

Pricing Pricing for the Sportline starts at £42,940* for the 2.0 TDI 204 PS short wheelbase panel van, with the long wheelbase panel van priced from £43,795. Short wheelbase variants of the Kombi are priced from £46,450* while long wheelbases begin at £47,305*. The Black Edition, available as a short wheelbase panel van or Kombi, is priced from £45,140 and £49,450, respectively.

For more details on Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ award-winning range of products and services, or to find your nearest Van Centre, please visit www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk.

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Volta Trucks launches its latest customer and media website, reflecting its people-focused approach to decarbonising logistics Volta Trucks, the leading full-electric commercial vehicle manufacturer, has launched its latest customer and media website, as it transitions from a start-up and the launch of the Volta Zero, to a scale-up company with Pilot Fleet vehicles being evaluated by customers on European roads later this year. The new website reflects the people-focused approach Volta Trucks is taking to decarbonise urban logistics, and thus creating a better environment for citycentre populations.

The new English and French language websites give insights into the Volta Trucks brand pillars of Sustainability, Safety and Truck as a Service, including an immersive 360-degree experience of the cab environment. This clearly shows how the Volta Zero will exceed the recently launched Transport for London five-star Direct Vision Standard.

The product pages also give an in-depth understanding and technical specification of the Volta Zero. The Media website and careers pages remain, with numerous

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new roles advertised as the company expands and searches for the next generation of electrification engineers and commercial experts.

Chief Executive Officer of Volta Trucks, Rob Fowler, said; “At Volta Trucks, we are building electric commercial vehicles for the zero-emission, sustainable cities that we see being introduced around the world all the time. And we are a peoplefocused busines, concentrating on making vulnerable road users safer, improving the air quality that city dwellers breathe, while improving the working environments of truck drivers, and supporting fleet operators to be more efficient, sustainable, and profitable. People are at the heart of everything we do. Our website is our company’s online shop window and I’m delighted to see it perfectly reflect our place in society, accelerating change towards a decarbonised future.”

For more information, please visit www.voltatrucks.com.

New Sales Director appointed at Marshall Fleet Solutions Leading commercial vehicle company Marshall Fleet Solutions has announced that, with immediate effect, Ian Smith has joined the business as its new Sales Director. Reporting to MD Mark Howell, Ian joins a seven-person Board of Directors at Marshall Fleet Solutions, working closely alongside the other executive directors.

Ian will head up the MFS Sales Department covering Thermo King transport refrigeration equipment sales and service, as well as the company’s Fleet Management Sales team.

Announcing details of Ian’s appointment, Mark Howell, managing director at Marshall Fleet Solutions said,” Ian is joining the business at an exciting time as we progress through our transformation and embark on an ambitious programme of business growth and sustainability.

By focusing on planning and evolving future sales within both new and existing business channels, Ian will play a major role in strengthening our expertise in this area and be integral in leading the sales team to future success.”

Prior to joining MFS, Ian Smith gained a wealth of experience within the commercial vehicle industry, most recently as National Sales Manager at Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solutions.

Prior to Hitachi Capital, Ian worked in several other senior sales roles within the transport industry, including Head of Northgate fleet management and key sales roles at FMG and Lex Autolease.

Mark Howell continues, “Ian brings over 20 years management and operational experience to MFS, specifically within fleet management and complemented by effective strategic leadership and cross functional excellence. Ian will no doubt flourish within the new MFS environment and help drive our business forward during 2021 and beyond.”

The position of Sales Director at MFS was previously occupied by Michael Kane who has recently moved across the business to the newly created position of Strategy Director, where he is now actively identifying, and developing, future business opportunities, which complement MFS’s existing well proven portfolio.

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HEROES ALL Find them at www.bond-it.co.uk