The Royal Institute of British Architects has published its latest set of horizon scans, spotlighting trends in global population change that will shape society and the built environment over the next ten years.
Shifting patterns in births, deaths and migration are reshaping communities. The world faces ageing populations, swelling cities, and more people on the move than ever before.
RIBA Horizons 2034: Population Change includes four horizon scans that consider how architects will need to adapt to respond to the changes. Written by leading academics and experts, they are commissioned by RIBA to provide foresight for building design professionals.
The four horizon scans are: Urbanisation; Demographics; International migration and displacement; and designing for an increasingly diverse population. They discuss how households and neighbourhoods will change, with a need for housing to respond to the reality of smaller families and older, more diverse communities, especially in the UK.
To tackle the challenge, they say architects must design inclusive, adaptable and resilient buildings. They call for leadership, innovation, collaboration, as well as knowledge sharing between professional institutes, governments and development partners.
RIBA President Muyiwa Oki said: “As architects, we’re in a distinctive position of influence and responsibility – uniquely positioned to create and organise places for communities that are changing at a rapid pace.
“As populations age and diversify, these horizon scans call on us all to design truly adaptable and resilient buildings and places that foster a sense of belonging.
“They investigate the nuances of migration and displacement, and promote constructive dialogue. I encourage every architect to review the material to help understand the challenges and opportunities ahead.”
Contributor to RIBA Horizons 2034: Population Change, Commonwealth Association of Architects (CAA) President Peter Oborn, said: “These horizon scans remind architects not only of the global challenges posed by issues such as climate change and rapid urbanisation, but also of the imperative for each of us to use our skills to promote advocacy, help build capacity and engage in climate action wherever we may be.”
Fassa Bortolo’s innovative Fassarend system, utilised in the prestigious ‘Devonia’ residential development.
Explore how Fassacouche, a through-coloured render in striking ‘Bianchissimo’, enhances facades with protection and style. Learn about the meticulous collaboration between Fassa’s experts and architects for flawless execution.
Read more on pages 16-17
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Public want more social housebuilding but greater investment in local infrastructure
The incoming Government should prioritise funding mechanisms and unblock the planning system to allow housebuilders to deliver new thriving communities.
The call comes from the UK’s leading social enterprise, Places for People, who polled 4,000 people across the UK from a balanced mix of housing circumstances, financial income, age, sex and more to understand the public’s aspirations around housing in the run up to the General Election on 4 July 2024.
The new data shows almost two-thirds of people surveyed (63%) are supportive of new affordable and social house building in their local area, but 58% are concerned about the strain that new housebuilding could put on their existing local services.
These concerns meant that almost threequarters (71%) of the UK population believe that there should be more upfront investment in local infrastructure projects, such as schools, doctors’ surgeries and hospitals, for new housebuilding schemes.
The study also revealed regional variance in attitudes. Those living in regions traditionally associated with higher house prices (South East 67%, South West 66% and the East of England 66%) are more likely to be concerned about the strain new housebuilding will put on their existing services. The devolved nations were the least likely to worried about the impact.
Finally, people who rent are less likely to be concerned about infrastructure delivery upfront (ave 63%) compared to those who own their own home (76%), and those who live in urban areas (48%) are less concerned than those who live rurally (63%).
Dinny Shaw, Head of Planning at Places for People: “There is a clear appetite for not only new housebuilding, but new communities from the UK public. We want to create thriving new communities, along with community infrastructure, but this cannot be done without deliverable planning permissions.
“Before we talk about a housing crisis, we have a planning crisis, and it’s getting worse. Only 21% of Local Planning Authorities adopted a Local Plan in the last 5 years. In the last 12 months only 10,406 sites were granted planning permission, the lowest number since 2006, and it’s taking an average of 28 weeks for any proposal to make it through the system.
"Long term, we need a clear framework in place that unlocks more land for new homes and delivers planning consents needed to support future growth in housing delivery.
“With a growing need for more affordable housing unless we tackle these issues that directly impact supply any incoming Government can say goodbye to their ambitious build targets. Too many years of talk and little action has led us to this point.”
Roof gardens and 50 Electric Boulevard complete
Battersea Roof Gardens, a mixed-use building, and 50 Electric Boulevard, an adjacent office building with 200,000 square feet of new workspace, have both completed.
Part of the third phase of the Battersea Power Station masterplan, the two buildings sit on the western side of Electric Boulevard, a split-level high street that runs from the Zone 1 Battersea Power Station Underground station to the Grade II* listed landmark.
The new buildings and high street share a gently undulating form, which has been designed to maximise views of the power station.
Major East London estate regeneration
A planning application has been submitted for the regeneration of the Teviot Estate in Poplar, East London.
The £800m redevelopment by The Hill Group and Poplar HARCA will provide around 1,900 new homes with 35% affordable, over four phases.
This will be complemented by new open green and play spaces, shops, community and faith facilities, alongside improved infrastructure.
As one of the largest estate regenerations in London, the redevelopment of Teviot will transform the area with upgraded designs and enhanced community amenities, creating a safer and better place to live.
Overcoming the building envelope specification challenge
How are you approaching building envelope specification now that it requires more detail earlier in the design process? Clayton Kingman, UK Head of Building Envelope at SIG highlights the challenge while offering one possible solution for architects and specifiers.
When the Building Safety Act was introduced, it brought with it a series of new rules and regulations designed to improve building safety across the built environment. As with any major legislative shift, it requires new processes and ways of working. One significant change for architects and specifiers is the need to create the design detail for the building envelope earlier in the design process and in more detail.
Prior to the act, specialist building envelope contractors would take the lead on the design detailing. This process would have occurred further into the project’s timeline and have given the opportunity to value engineer a solution that could be very different to the original vision.
Failure in this context doesn’t mean a quick revision. It means construction cannot start. Getting it wrong is therefore costly.
Now envelope design must be considered through the lens of the Act, especially concerning buildings classified as ‘Higher Risk Buildings’ (HRB). There are a series of three ‘Gateways’ through which building designs must pass. Passing each gateway requires approval by the Building Safety Regulator where checks are made against safety and building standards.
Gateway Two specifically relates to building envelope design. Should the detail design not be up to standard or demonstrate sufficient evidence of meeting all requirements, it can fail.
Once the design is approved it can be difficult to make changes as any amendments require the BSR to be notified and to go through the approvals process again. This alone can take up to 6 weeks, during which work cannot progress.
For architects and specifiers whose workload has already increased and come under more scrutiny, this creates another layer of responsibility which requires niche, expert knowledge to navigate.
In designing the envelope, specifiers are likely to turn to multiple manufacturer products and systems, combining them together to create a solution.
Difficulties arise when performance of this specific combination needs to be proven. An expert in envelope design might have the answers and understand how systems can come together, but for the uninitiated it can be daunting.
Manufacturers have stepped up when it comes to supplying testing data, with more information being readily available. What manufactures won’t be testing, however, is the product or system combinations that envelope designs require. As such, there’s a gap where distributors can step in to support.
Distributors can offer a brand-agnostic view of building envelope systems. With greater access to manufacturers, their data, and the knowledge to apply the system effectively, distributors can take the pain of constructing a solution away. SIG, for example, relies on the in-house 360 Technical Team to provide all the necessary thermal calculations and modelling to support accurate application of systems.
Additionally, by working with a distributor earlier in the process, their ability to understand product availabilities and supply chains can help ensure product is secured and ready for when you need it most. And when changes to envelope design are necessary, distributors can minimise the risk by offering only available options.
Building envelope design may come with more layers of responsibility but architects and specifiers aren’t alone in tackling this. By engaging with the right suppliers they can reduce risk, source the right expertise, and ensure products are delivered.
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At Mitsubishi Electric we provide advanced solutions that heat, cool, ventilate and control buildings in the most energy ef cient and cost-effective ways possible. Through our technical expertise and experience, we have continued to develop our comprehensive range of low carbon solutions for large-scale applications, bringing the quality you would expect, whilst also helping to reduce client energy costs.
Offering scalable and speci c solutions for both comfort and process cooling applications between 5kW and 4.2MW, Mitsubishi Electric’s understated quality and unparalleled performance is guaranteed, alongside the most innovative and sustainable heat pump and chiller solutions on the market.
Our comprehensive range now includes both modular and fully customisable units, so your system can be con gured for almost any large-scale, low carbon project requirement.
Eco-revolution - Optima's journey to CIRCAL 75R sustainability
Optima, provider of premium glass partition systems, supported by Tunley Environmental, has embarked on an innovative sustainability journey. This initiative is led by transitioning to CIRCAL 75R; a revolutionary eco-friendly aluminium supplied by Hydro, an industry leader in renewable energy solutions, says Dr William Beer, CEO, Tunley Environmental.
Hydro CIRCAL 75R represents a pivotal shift in the production of sustainable aluminium, redefining the industry's approach to both material sourcing and manufacture processes. This prime-quality alloy is derived from at least 75% post-consumer materials. Its manufacture is supplied by renewable energy. This significantly reduces the environmental impact of aluminium production resulting in a billet footprint of just 1.9 kg CO2e/kg.
Tunley Environmental completed a comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) which revealed aluminium as a significant hotspot in Optima's organisational carbon footprint. By sourcing lower carbon emissions aluminium, specifically Hydro CIRCAL 75R, Optima significantly reduced their Scope 3 emissions. Utilising an LCA approach also highlighted the advantage of aluminium in terms of product longevity, validating the preferential choice over timber for Optima’s products.
The reuse of products offers significant environmental advantages over recycling, reducing the need for energy-intensive primary processes and minimising waste generation. Designing products with disassembly and reinstallation in mind extends their lifespan, promotes resource efficiency, and contributes to a more sustainable future.
The power of reuse
Optima has introduced take-back schemes and actively engages in assisting customers in reusing products, underscoring their commitment to sustainability. Optima prioritises sustainability, with a focus on the long-term environmental benefits. A LCA completed by Tunley Environmental determined the carbon savings of the take-back scheme to be up to a staggering 98%, showcasing the significant environmental advantages of product reuse.
As Optima continues its sustainability journey with Tunley Environmental, they are now focusing on sourcing lower emission factor materials for the non-aluminium parts, particularly low carbon glass. The company is investing in the potential for glass reuse and integrating carbon as an inherent part of the new product introduction process. Furthermore, Optima plans to delve into investigating the biodiversity footprint of their products, reflecting their commitment to holistic sustainability practices.
Optima's transition to CIRCAL 75R has not only reduced
their carbon footprint but also led to a transformative shift in their product development process.
By embracing sustainable innovation and prioritising product reuse, Optima has demonstrated the pivotal role undertaking independent LCAs is in driving sustainable business practices and informed decisionmaking during product development.
Project: RIBA International Awards for Excellence 2024
Architects: Various
Suppliers: Various
Exceptional projects vying for world’s most transformative building award
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has revealed 22 winners of the RIBA International Awards for Excellence 2024. The winning projects have been selected from entries to the world’s most prestigious award for architecture, the RIBA International Prize.
The RIBA International Awards for Excellence celebrate the most exemplary architecture from across the world and the 22 winning projects represent a significant cultural shift in the way that architecture is designed and built for current and future generations.
From private homes and subway stations, to museums and schools, each project is an example of the highest calibre of architectural response to social, cultural and environmental challenges.
Showcasing architectural excellence across four continents, key themes illustrated include:
• Climate resilience and connection to nature - Examples include: Bundanon Art Museum and Bridge (Australia) by Kerstin Thompson Architects, in which a bridge housing a creative learning centre sits lightly above a wet gully, resilient to seasonal flood; Green Field Factory (Bangladesh) by Nakshabid Architects, which establishes a close bond between humans and nature while supporting the eco-system of the building’s surroundings; and Liknon (Greece) by K-Studio, which celebrates the ancient vineyard and natural landscape by allowing the intervention to embrace the sloping typography.
• Creative reinvention and extension of existing architecture - Examples include: Morland Mixité Capitale (France) by David Chipperfield Architects Berlin and CALQ, which transforms a previously introverted building complex into an open and accessible urban campus; Six Bricolage-houses (China) by ARCity Office, which renovated six houses to create a new typology of ‘bricolage architecture’ by inserting
mini public spaces into the dwellings; and Veemgebouw (Netherlands) by Caruso St John Architects, which converted an industrial building, originally designed for storage, into a public asset with a mixture of uses.
• Space for wellness, mindfulness and community through design - Examples include: Punchbowl Mosque (Australia) by Angelo Candalepas and Associates, which inspired an entire city to use its rare public interior as a meeting place for all people; Sharanam Centre for Rural Development (India) by Jateen Lad, which creates a refuge of dignity and wellbeing for the poorest of the rural poor; and Shah Muhammad Mohsin Khan Mausoleum (Bangladesh) by Sthapotik, which endeavours to establish social harmony amongst all religions and groups through communal spaces that promote shared understanding.
All projects are now in the running for the fourth RIBA International Prize, which will be announced in November 2024 alongside the winner of the RIBA International Emerging Architect Prize.
Established in 2015, the RIBA International Prize is one of architecture’s highest global accolades, awarded to a building that demonstrates visionary thinking, originality, excellence of execution, and makes a distinct contribution to its users, surrounding environment and communities. >>
Sharanam Centre for Rural Development (India)
Six Bricolage-houses
Engineering Laboratories
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>> The bi-annual Prize is one of the world’s most rigorously judged architecture awards, with every shortlisted building visited by a group of international design experts. It is open to any registered architect in the world and awarded to a building of any size, type or budget.
The 22 award-winning buildings are spread across 14 countries. Each project has been visited in person by a local ambassador appointed by RIBA.
RIBA President Muyiwa Oki said: “Supporting and working with architects and practices around the globe to promote excellence in architecture is central to RIBA’s purpose. Now in its fourth iteration as an established part of the RIBA Awards calendar, the International Awards recognise and celebrate ambitious and impactful buildings across the world that create meaningful change. It is a privilege for us to reward this collection of the world’s most exceptional buildings.”
Simon Henley, Chair of the RIBA Awards Group, said: “Each of these projects makes an exceptional contribution to its local area and demonstrates a stimulating architectural response to RIBA’s stringent social, environmental and design values. On behalf of the RIBA Awards Group, I am delighted to award and celebrate these exceptional buildings, their architects and clients across the world.”
Ahmedabad University Centre
The 22 winners of the RIBA International Awards for Excellence 2024:
• Adega Pico Winery & Hotel by SAMI-Arquitectos in collaboration with DRDH Architects (Bandeiras, Portugal)
• Ahmedabad University Centre by Stephane Paumier Architects (Ahmedabad, India)
• Bioclimatic School in Guécélard by Atelier Julien Boidot (Guécélard, France)
• Bundanon Art Museum & Bridge by Kerstin Thompson Architects (Illaroo, Australia)
• Casa Catarina by Taller Hector Barraso (Valle de Braco, Mexico)
• Collège Hampaté Bá by Article 25 (Niamey, Niger)
• Engineering Laboratories | Pontificia Universidad Javeriana by Juan Pablo Ortiz Arquitectos TALLER Architects (Bogotá, Colombia)
• Green Field Factory of Karupannya Rangpur Limited by Nakshabid Architects (Rangpur, Bangladesh)
• Jacoby Studios by David Chipperfield Architects Berlin (Paderborn, Germany)
• Jadgal Elementary School by DAAZ Office (Sistan and Baluchestan, Iran)
• Jahad Metro Plaza by KA architecture Studio (Tehran, Iran)
• Jingdezhen Pengjia Alley Compound by Beijing AN-DESIGN Architects (Jingdezhen City, China)
• Liknon by K-Studio (Vourliotes, Greece)
• Modulus Matrix – 85 Social Housing in Cornellà by Peris+Toral Arquitectes (Cornellà, Spain)
• Morland Mixité Capitale by David Chipperfield Architects Berlin and CALQ (Paris, France)
• Neue Nationalgalerie refurbishment by David Chipperfield Architects Berlin (Berlin, Germany)
• Punchbowl Mosque by Angelo Candalepas and Associates (Sydney, Australia)
• Shah Muhammad Mohsin Khan Mausoleum by Sthapotik (Manikgonj, Bangladesh)
• Sharanam Centre for Rural Development by Jateen Lad (near Pondicherry, India)
• Six Bricolage-houses by ARCity Office (Shenzhen City, China)
• Thapar University Learning Laboratory by McCullough Mulvin Architects (Patiala, India)
• Veemgebouw by Caruso St John Architects (Eindhoven, Netherlands)
Modulus Matrix
Thapar University Learning Laboratory
Jacoby Studios
PAS24:2022 Approved
Bringing Access Control to Commercial and Residential PAS 24 doorsets
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Certified renders from Fassa Bortolo complete work on ‘devonia’
Leading Italian render manufacturer, Fassa Bortolo, has recently completed work on ‘Devonia’, a collection of residential properties in Cheltenham, developed by JL Cotswolds Developments Ltd.
Specified in collaboration with Fassa’s National Specification Manager, Stephen Gore, and Richard Moores from Coombes Everitt Architects, this exclusive development utilised Fassa Bortolo’s Fassarend cycle 2E, which boasts a BBA certification for its quality and reliability.
Our client, JL Cotswolds Developments Ltd, required a cost-effective design solution with a third-party certification. An extensive iterative design process was conducted to determine the most suitable range of Fassa products. Ultimately, a demonstration of the waterrepelling properties of IS 510 topcoat proved decisive in final selection.
This system has been specifically designed for new developments. The process involved the application of Fassacouche, a through coloured render
known for protecting and decorating facades, onto medium density blockwork. Additionally, Fassanet 160 mesh was used to
reinforce and further safeguard the structure, enhancing its strength. For added protection and longevity, the system was finished with IS510, a siloxane water repellent.
Devonia is an outstanding development of just five luxury, newly constructed detached homes. Designed to complement the surrounding architecture and landscape, the houses were finished in the shade Bianchissimo.
Fassa Bortolo – Enquiry 9
CYCLE WITH one-coat render
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SUBSTRATE
MEDIUM DENSE BLOCKWORK (7.3 KN)
BASE COAT
FASSACOUCHE Semi-lightweight through-coloured render for protecting and decorating facades. 1 3 FASSANET 160 Alkali-resistant fibreglass reinforcing mesh, 160 g/m².
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about Fassa Bortolo and its range of render systems and building products.
Please SCAN THE QR CODE to get in contact visit www.fassabortolo.co.uk or call 01684 218 305
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New metal profile with lower embodied carbon aims to help reduce carbon footprint
The construction industry faces a daunting challenge in its journey toward sustainability, particularly in addressing both operational and embodied carbon emissions.
It is why British Gypsum, part of SaintGobain Interior Solutions, began looking at delivering metal profiles manufactured from steel with lower embodied carbon under its Gypframe® metal profiles range, with an ambition to cut Scope 3 carbon emissions, defined by the Greenhouse Gas Protocol as indirect emissions, occurring from sources owned or controlled by other entities in the company’s value chain.
Using knowledge, research, and testing, as well as working closely with its suppliers, British Gypsum has now brought Gypframe® Carbon Low metal profiles to market.
In this article, Charles Morris, Head of Framing and Systems at Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions, looks at why it was important for the company to expand its
Gypframe metal profile range and also help customers cut their carbon footprint.
The Government has set a target to decarbonise all sectors of the UK economy in order to meet its net zero target by 2050. To meet this milestone, the total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions would be equal to the emissions removed from the atmosphere, with the aim to limit global warming. Strategies include the scale up and deployment of technologies for decarbonising homes, power, industry, and transport.
We are committed to achieving operational net zero carbon by 2050 and, in doing so, have looked to reduce embodied carbon
associated with buildings (the GHG emitted during the manufacturing, transportation, installation, maintenance, and disposal of building materials).
We believe we have a lead role to play in building better, and helping to create pathways to net zero carbon that will equally require a multifaceted approach.
About Gypframe® Carbon Low Metal Profiles
Our existing range of Gypframe metal profiles are well established in the market. Our patented UltraSTEEL® gives Gypframe components superior strength, making fixing easier, and they qualify for the British Gypsum SpecSure® lifetime system warranty, conforming to EN 14195 standards.
Gypframe metal profiles are easy to transport and install, and they can be cut on site, stored outside, and installed in any weather, making scheduling work simple and efficient.
We wanted to provide a lower embodied carbon product that looked and performed like any other Gypframe metal profile, and we have achieved this.
Gypframe Carbon Low metal profiles have been proven to perform the same as our existing Gypframe metal profiles but have up to 58%* less embodied carbon over the whole product life cycle versus British Gypsum’s standard metal profiles, helping to reduce our customers’ carbon footprint whilst delivering the same high-quality product.
In terms of dimensions, Carbon Low metal profiles are physically the same as our current Gypframe profiles, the steel type/grade is the same and they are manufactured on the same production lines using the same tools.
Reducing carbon in the production process
Whilst it is important to cut emissions and meet green building certifications criteria, maintaining the quality of the product was also paramount. We wanted to retain all the characteristics and qualities of our existing Gypframe metal profiles range as our new offering is not a separate, distinct range; it is a lower embodied carbon version.
Therefore, the only difference between Gypframe Carbon Low metal profiles and our current Gypframe metal profiles is the manufacturing method of the raw steel, with a blast furnace used for current profiles while an electric arc furnace is used for Carbon Low.
This 58% reduction in embodied carbon over the whole product life cycle means per 1 kg of metal used, Carbon Low will save 1.9 kg of CO2e versus our standard metal (*GWP indicator calculated from cradle to grave (A1 to C4 stages) is verified by an Environmental Product Declaration, which substantiates the environmental and emissions claims of this product.)
It also means Gypframe Carbon Low metal profiles will count towards Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology (BREEAM) points, including Mat 01 Credit - Environmental Impacts from Construction ProductsBuilding Life-Cycle Assessment.
As well as BREEAM, the world’s longestestablished green building certification system delivered by BRE (Building Research Establishment), the product will also contribute towards LEED points, with buildings earning points for meeting certain criteria in categories such as energy efficiency, water conservation, and indoor environmental quality.
Gypframe metal profiles, including Carbon Low, have applications across housebuilding and high-rise sectors and we hope architects, specifiers and project leaders will recognise the value of this new product.
The golden thread of information Testing for Gypframe Carbon Low metal profiles was carried out at an independent and UKAS-accredited Building Test Centre, and includes fire and acoustic test data, to ensure the profile performance remains consistent with the current Gypframe metal profiles.
Specification data for Gypframe can be found in our industry-revered guide, the White Book Specification Selector, which is built upon more than 13,000 full scale tests from the Building Test Centre.
Customers must specify with their distributor that they want the Gypframe Carbon Low metal profile, and it will be handled as a bespoke order. The product can be mixed with the current Gypframe metal profiles as they are completely interchangeable.
They look, feel, and perform in the same way, so they can be used within a construction project with confidence. The lower carbon profiles will be printed Carbon Low to distinguish them from standard profiles.
The profiles can be used in different applications with Carbon Low available in all our 0.5mm gauge profiles, with other profiles rolled out over time. Current products for Gypframe Carbon Low include Gypframe® 'C' Studs, Gypframe® 'I' Studs, Gypframe® Folded Edge Channels, Gypframe® AcouStuds, Gypframe® Angles (GA5, GA6), and GypLyner Channels (MF5, MF6).
We have helped to pioneer an innovative solution for the built environment that will reduce Scope 3 emissions for us and our customers. Our aim is to make the built world a better place as we care about building better for people and the planet.
For more information, visit british-gypsum.com/carbon-low
British Gypsum – Enquiry 11
Beko’s rigorous stress-testing ensures appliances are built for modern living
As a specialist supplier to new build residential projects, and the contract supply division of the UK’s leading home appliance brand, Beko Appliance Partners are confident in the quality and durability of the Beko appliances they specify thanks to the rigorous measures taken to ensure products are robust enough to provide years of dependable service.
Beko appliances are stress-tested to the extreme by simulating real-life scenarios. From opening and closing fridge freezer doors up to 300,000 times and testing glass shelves with a 150kg weight for 8 hours*, to extending the loaded lower rack of dishwashers over 100,000 times, all appliances are put through their paces to ensure they can withstand the challenges of modern living.
As well as minimising frustrations caused by premature and potentially costly repairs, increasing the lifespan of an appliance additionally offers environmental benefits.
Short-lived appliances contribute to electronic waste, which can be challenging to recycle and add to landfill. In order to extend the lifespan of their appliances and reduce waste, Beko offer an optional extended parts and labour warranty
package of up to 5 years to encourage repair should an issue arise with a product. In addition to this, selected products within Beko’s portfolio of appliances are eligible for the brand’s generous 10-year spare parts guarantee.
Steve Clarke, Beko plc’s Head of Quality and Sustainability, comments: “We continually strive to ensure our appliances are not only highly functional, stylish and energy efficient to support modern lifestyles, but are also durable enough to remain fit for purpose throughout the lifespan of the product. Delivering new homes that exceed expectations long beyond initial occupation of the property is a collaborative effort.”
Beko’s latest multi-channel advertising campaign highlights the multiple and varied stress-tests the brand’s appliances are
subjected to, offering consumers an insight into the extensive processes which are continually undertaken in order to ensure products are built to last.
For housebuilders and developers, reliability of the products specified within their new homes is fundamental to maximising customer satisfaction and maintaining a positive reputation amongst home buyers and renters. Meticulous attention to detail on the developer’s part during the design and construction phase could potentially be tainted by inconvenient product malfunctions or inefficiencies post-installation, with costly callbacks and repairs negatively impacting the customer experience, thereby affecting the perception and integrity of the developer.
*Tests performed at Arçelik labs, supervised by TÜV on 60cm combi fridge freezer range.
Beko – Enquiry 12
Knightsbridge’s commercial downlights meet every need
Tailored to address every commercial need from office to factory, three new downlights offered by Knightsbridge –one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of wiring accessories and lighting – share key features such as plug and play connectors for easy installation and dimmable drivers as standard. The line-up consists of Kara, Sara and Seren, all of which deliver superior energy efficiency through advanced LED technology, with a rating of at least IP20.
The downlights offer versatile wattage and colour temperature options to meet varying lighting requirements and are compatible with EMKIT2L to provide emergency lighting options. All have generous warranty periods extending up to five years.
Kara LED panels are round and recessed, employing edge-lit technology to distribute light evenly without glare or black spots. Available in power settings from 6W to 24W, the Kara has a slim profile that makes it easier to fit in shallow ceilings. The panels are high efficiency up to 135lm/w, offer the choice of dimmable or non-dimmable and have a three-year warranty.
Sara downlights merge a robust die-cast aluminium construction with functional flexibility, offering TRI-CCT and TRI-Wattage options that range from 15W to 40W. The series allows for precise lighting adjustments through its rotation and tilt capabilities, all under a five-year warranty.
Constructed from a robust die-cast aluminium body coated with a white powder finish, Seren downlights provide TRI CCT (3000K/ 4000K/ 5000K) and TRI wattage options, which means the lighting can be adapted to different environments effortlessly.
There are nine wattage settings, across three different fittings, from 7W to 40W
and high efficiency up to 175lm/w. Seren supports various control options including non-dimmable, 0-10V dimmable, and DALI interfaces, suitable for diverse lighting environments. These downlights meet IP40 when installed (IP20 from above) and backed by a five-year warranty.
Knightsbridge's expanded downlight range is specifically engineered to meet the evolving demands of the lighting industry, combining aesthetic versatility with technological innovation. Each series is designed to provide reliable, high-quality solutions that can be seamlessly integrated into various commercial settings.
For further details of the Knightsbridge innovative wiring accessories and lighting products, please visit www.mlaccessories.co.uk or call 01582 887760
Knightsbridge – Enquiry 15
Offsite Construction
Putting fire testing in the frame
Find out about how Glidevale Protect undertook rigorous, third party fire testing for its latest membrane innovation, ensuring suitability for low, medium and high rise buildings. Read more on page 26. High performance, Class A2 external flame retardant breather membrane
Putting fire testing in the frame with Glidevale Protect
Earlier this year, Glidevale Protect launched a new Class A2-s1, d0 flame retardant external wall breather membrane - Protect FrameSafe FR.
Its Class A2 rating exceeds Building Regulations Approved Document Part B, which states that external wall membranes must achieve at least a Class B fire rating for structures over 11m –making it perfectly suited for use on higher risk occupied buildings as defined in the 2022 Building Safety Act. It’s also ideal for modular and offsite construction projects at all building heights as well as on high rise structures where rainscreen cladding systems are also installed.
Jim Smith, head of technical at Glidevale Protect coordinated extensive product assessment of the membrane, both inhouse as well as external fire tests via an independent third-party laboratory. Here he answers some of the most frequently asked questions about the scope of the testing, the fire classification results and what this means for specifiers working on traditional and offsite projects.
Q. What fire testing has Protect FrameSafe FR been subjected to?
A. Protect FrameSafe FR was independently tested against two industry recognised methods, as specified in BS EN 135011:2018. The first (BS EN ISO 1716:2018) assesses the amount of energy released when a material is completely combusted
within a bomb calorimeter, and the second (BS EN 13823:2020+A1:2022) assesses how a material behaves when exposed to thermal attack by a single burning item.
The single burning item test simulates a fire starting in the corner of a room with the material under test exposed to the development stage of a fire and monitored for a period of 20 minutes.
This measures how a material reacts to a sustained heat source, including total heat and energy release during the period, combustion gases generated, level of smoke produced and any flame spread or flaming droplets.
Q. What does the Protect FrameSafe FR A2s1, d0 reaction to fire classification mean?
A. The S classification refers to the level of smoke generated during assessment, with 1 being the lowest level and 3 the highest. The D classification refers to the level of flaming droplets produced during testing which could potentially spread the fire further - with 0 being no droplets and 2 being the highest rating.
Protect FrameSafe FR’s s1 rating means there was little to no smoke generated during the test and its d0 rating shows that it did not produce any burning droplets.
Q. What substrates has Protect FrameSafe FR been tested with?
A. The same BS EN 13823 test was carried out on Protect FrameSafe FR not only as freehanging material but also mechanically fixed to a substrate comprising a Class A1 rock fibre insulation substrate and separately, with a low-density Class A2 plasterboard. The same Class A2 reaction to fire rating was achieved both free hanging and as part of system with Protect FR tape being used to seal the membrane laps, meaning it can be installed with any Class A2 substrate without compromising its fire rating. The results show that any substrate with a fire classification of A2 or higher and a board density equal to or higher than the tested density of 37.5kg/ m3 is acceptable for use.
Glidevale Protect is committed to transparency so all the detailed classification reports are available on request at info@glidevaleprotect.com and the Technical team is on hand to support specifiers working on low, medium or high rise buildings.
To find out more, visit www.glidevaleprotect.com/framesafe, call 0161 905 5700, email the Technical team on technical@glidevaleprotect.com or follow Glidevale Protect on LinkedIn.
Glidevale Protect – Enquiry 16
How building sustainably can save you money
In the UK, where energy bills are a constant concern and environmental consciousness is on the rise, building sustainably is a no-brainer. While the initial cost of sustainable materials might seem higher, the long-term financial gains are great, says Joe Ragdale, Technical Director, Wetherby Building Systems Ltd.
One of the biggest financial benefits of sustainable building comes from improved energy efficiency.
Sustainable buildings utilise appliances and systems like LED lighting, highefficiency boilers, and water-saving fixtures. These technologies, while potentially costing more upfront, consume less energy, leading to significant reductions in your quarterly bills.
Sustainable construction can design around natural beauty and nature to optimise natural light and ventilation. This reduces reliance on artificial lighting and heating systems, particularly relevant in the UK's milder climate.
Additionally, features like proper insulation and window sealing minimise heat loss, further lowering your energy usage.
Many sustainable buildings explore renewable energy sources like solar
panels. While the initial installation might be an investment, the generated energy offsets electricity from the grid, leading to long-term cost savings.
Sustainable buildings are equipped with water-saving fixtures, including lowflow toilets and showerheads. These technologies significantly reduce water consumption without compromising functionality saving you money whilst helping the environment.
Sustainable buildings are often constructed with high-quality, durable materials that require fewer maintenance visits and repairs. These materials may have a slightly higher initial cost, but the durability of the materials will lower future expenses.
Additionally, green buildings often incorporate features that
improve indoor air quality, potentially leading to fewer health problems for occupants and reduced healthcare costs.
Sustainable building practices can be implemented on various scales, from new constructions to renovations.
Wetherby – Enquiry 17
Metsec underlines commitment to accurate product information
voestalpine Metsec has become one of the earliest adopters of the Code for Construction Products Information (CCPI), introduced by the Construction Products Association in response to Dame Judith Hackitt’s review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety, set up following the Grenfell Tower tragedy.
CCPI assessments are undertaken by Assessors from Construction Products Information Ltd. and are carried out on a manufacturer’s specific products and systems, not the company as a whole. As such, an organisation or brand cannot, in itself, gain assessment or make any claims of conformance beyond a specific product set.
To date, voestalpine Metsec has successfully achieved assessment for four of its key construction systems; SFS light gauge galvanized steel structural framing systems and Metframe pre-panelised framing system from its Framing Division, dry lining metal framed components for gypsum plasterboard systems from its Dry Lining Division and roof, side rail and mezzanine floor systems from its Purlins Division.
Alan Harris, Quality and BIM Compliance Director at voestalpine Metsec, states, “Continuous investment in independent performance testing and quality assurance is what keeps our construction solutions at the forefront of the industry.
“Ensuring that the data and information derived from these tests is conveyed in a clear, unambiguous fashion is key to providing specifiers, installers and users with more confidence in the systems’ capabilities and suitability for their projects. Successful assessment to the CCPI confirms we are doing things right and underlines our commitment to the industry’s needs.”
CCPI aims to address the stipulation from Dame Hackitt’s review that construction product information needs to be communicated in a clear and accurate way.
Its aim is to help organisations drive for higher standards in the presentation of
construction product information, with a priority on building safety. voestalpine Metsec has set up a rigorous information review process to ensure that messaging from all divisions is based on accurate, verifiable data and that this information is presented in a clear and accessible manner,
which can be easily found and assimilated by its intended target audience. For more information please visit our website www.metsec.com or contact us at Metsec.PLC@voestalpine.com.
Metsec – Enquiry 19
Portakabin installs Site Accommodation at the iconic Admiralty Arch, London
London’s first Waldorf Astoria property is set to open in Admiralty Arch in 2025, with site accommodation for the restoration provided by Portakabin.
In total, Portakabin installed 56 site accommodation modules spread over fourstoreys, which will be in place at this iconic location for two years. Delivery of this unique project took a total of four weeks, with seven days of initial install followed by three weeks of fit out and completion.
The Portakabin site accommodation team worked in close collaboration with Knight Build throughout the design process and during the install to deliver the project in what was a very logistically challenging space, on to a 7m high gantry adjacent to a busy Trafalgar Square.
The space provided will accommodate up to 350 contract workers and will be used for both office and welfare facilities.
Tracy Hilton, Business Development Manager for Site Accommodation at Portakabin said: “It was brilliant to work collaboratively with Knight Build on both the design and install process. Installing over 50 modules on a complex and logistically challenging site adjacent to Trafalgar Square is something that my team and I have been proud to deliver.
“It has been amazing to see this whole project come together, from the initial design concept right through to the final fitout and handover.”
Compromising of 100 rooms and up to four residencies, once open the hotel will be
known as Admiralty Arch Waldorf Astoria, London and will also feature restaurants, bars, a ballroom and a spa.
Dominick Gallagher, Health Safety Environmental & Quality Manager at Knight Build Ltd said: “Portakabin worked collaboratively with Knight Build Ltd from the outset helping to deliver a challenging project effortlessly.
From the planning, through to the logistics and installation, every minor detail was accounted for, which in turn, resulted in minimum disruption to the residents and local community.
The results are clear for all to see with the accommodation sitting proudly over Admiralty Arch, forming the gateway to The Royal Parks and Buckingham Palace. Inside you are met with first-class, bright, spacious and eco-friendly offices and welfare accommodation. The works undertaken and the finished product has been commended by many including visitors, the staff, the local authority and The Royal Parks to name a few. It was a pleasure working with the
Portakabin team and we look forward to our next project together”.
To watch exclusive install footage visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=-I74fLmycMU, read more about this project at www.portakabin.com/gb-en/news-andevents/news/admiralty-arch/ or call 0333 305 8975 for more information.
Portakabin – Enquiry 20
A sustainable approach to paint specification in leisure settings
As the demand for sustainable building practices continues, it is important to carefully consider all building materials – right down to the paint on the walls. Here, Lee Crossland, National Sector Manager for Leisure at Dulux Decorator Centre, offers advice to those specifying paint for leisure spaces.
Traditionally, solvent-based paints were chosen for their durability. However, they come with a downside, as they contain higher volatile organic compound (VOC) levels and can be harmful to both the environment and human health.
This is because VOCs contribute to indoor air pollution and can cause respiratory issues, headaches, and other health problems if people are exposed for extended periods.
However, the water-based paints available today will deliver the durability and drying times needed to complete the job quickly and to a high standard, whilst also reducing emissions from VOCs.
For example, there are paints on the market that are 99.9% VOC free which are much better for the environment and applier. They can also be cleaned up without using harmful solvent-based cleaners.
As well as VOC content, it is important to look for paints that meet recognised accreditations, such as BREAM or LEED. These certifications assess numerous factors, including VOC levels, hazardous substances, and energy efficiency during production and showcase adherence to stringent environmental standards. Selecting a sustainable paint goes
beyond the product itself – it requires the manufacturer and supplier to be committed to more sustainable practices.
This will ensure solutions are manufactured and delivered with minimal impact on the environment. It’s also important to consider the end-to-end support on offer from the supplier. >>
>> As well as product advice during the specification stages, some will offer takeback schemes or recycling programmes to help dispose of leftover paint and packaging sustainably.
In leisure settings, minimising disruption to guests during redecorating is critical to maintaining customer satisfaction.
If the building remains open, it is important to choose fast-drying, lowVOC, water-based paints that can help to reduce downtime and emit minimal smell.
If the premises are closed during the work, these paints will ensure the space doesn’t need to be ventilated for as long, so the doors can be re-opened quickly,
minimising revenue loss. Sustainability can also be improved by the longevity of the paint. High-quality, durable products that can withstand wear and tear and regular cleaning will reduce the need for regular redecorating - a process that increases a building’s emissions over its lifetime.
Looking beyond sustainability, it is important to create a cohesive aesthetic that evokes emotion and is in keeping with the brand identity to enhance guest experience. For example, hotels should make guests feel comfortable and relaxed with colours that are inspired by nature –whereas gyms should use pops of colour that are uplifting and energising. When creating colour palettes, it is important
to consider every element of the room. For example, wall colours can be selected to complement existing furnishings and wallpaper. Dulux Decorator Centre can also colour match to existing paint colours, to make sure any touch ups blend in seamlessly.
In conclusion, specifying sustainable paint in leisure settings involves a multifaceted approach that considers a product’s environmental impact and durability – as well as how the product and paint cans are disposed of once the job is complete.
By working with Dulux Decorator Centre, specifiers will receive support during the specification phases, including expert colour advice and colour matching.
The UK’s No. 1 bathroom wall panel
Discreet watertight joint with Hydrolock® Grout free
Market leaders for a reason
Multipanel bathroom panels are precisely engineered and equipped with a unique Hydrolock® tongue and groove joint which allows seamless installation in any wet room or bathroom, reducing bathroom installation costs by up to £30/m2
Driving around the circumference of the Earth 628 times is equivalent to the CO2 reduction in Multipanel being used instead of tiles.
Fixing key issues – the benefits of ‘going keyless’ in gyms and spas
Gym, hotel, and spa lockers are a common source of customer complaints, which are increasing due to the cost-conscious atmosphere created by the current cost-of-living crisis. Steve Newman, European Sales Manager at Codelocks, explains how modern, feature-rich locking solutions can improve the customer experience while also saving time, effort, and lost revenue.
Although gyms and spas are incredibly popular, with up to one-third of the UK population potentially having a wellness membership, the cost-of-living crisis is having an impact. Consumers are more cautious with their discretionary spending, and as a consequence have become more demanding. This cost-conscious atmosphere has led to a rise in negative consumer reviews according to Trustpilot, and most consumers will cancel their membership if standards aren’t met.
At the same time, cost-conscious gyms, spas, and hotels must find ways to save money and time. They must deliver a high-quality customer experience, while juggling this with the competing pressure of improving efficiency.
Many gym, spa, and hotel changing rooms – specifically lockers – can be an area that suffers when it comes to customer experience. It is not uncommon to find a number of lockers to be ‘out of action’. In luxury spas, gyms, and high-end hotels, such an experience will almost certainly generate negative reviews. The time it takes firefighting the issue is also a waste of leisure facilities managers’ valuable time. Fortunately, modern, simple, and effective access control solutions can reverse this drain on resources and transform customers’ experiences.
Leaving lost keys behind saves time and headaches
Lost keys are the scourge of the locker room. They render gym and spa facilities unusable because guests have nowhere to store their belongings. They also take staff away from their regular duties as they try to find the keys or fix the situation – a waste of their time that could have knock-on effects on things like classes or personal training sessions
In the Hyatt Regency gym and spa, lost keys were such an issue that at one time only 10 out of 75 lockers were usable. It is fortunate
that this gym and spa was attached to a large, popular, and well-known hotel chain. Without it, there could have been more severe consequences. It is only a rough and ready estimate, but if a gym and spa could only operate with 13% of its capacity, and potentially just 13% of its members, it is highly unlikely it would stay open for long. The potential cost of revenue lost because of keys is clear. A key solution to this scenario is to leave lost keys behind and switch to a keyless, coded lock that doesn’t require members to look after a key while they have a massage or lift weights.
Coded access locks, such as the KitLock KL1000 Classic, enable users to simply enter a four-digit code into the keypad, lock it and go. Their belongings are stored safely, and there’s no need for anything physical that could be lost and prevent access down the line. Re-entering their code once they’re finished, enables gym and spa users to unlock the lock, automatically resetting and erasing the code ready for the next user.
Gym or spa managers don’t need to worry about forgotten codes either – using coded locks doesn’t mean deflecting a problem only for it to reappear somewhere else. Coded locks come with technician or maintenance codes that allow staff to override any lock and gain access. Some locks, such as the KL1000 G3 KitLock, come with a master key override too.
On top of this, many coded locks come with automatic unlocking which can be pre-programmed for specific times such as closing time. This helps to ensure that any belongings in lockers that gym or spa members may have forgotten about can be emptied for use the next day. The versatility of coded locks ensure that the locker is ready to be used in the morning in the normal way. It also
prevents users from ‘reserving’ a locker and ensures an equal and enhanced experience for all users. Automatic unlocking can be programmed to coincide with a cleaning schedule too. For hundreds of locks in a gym or hotel spa, that equates to a large amount of time saved for cleaning staff repeatedly inputting codes. This makes their jobs easier and their cleaning more efficient, helping to ensure clean and hygienic changing rooms that maintain customer satisfaction.
Unlocking holistic benefits
In the wellness world you often hear talk of the ‘holistic benefits’ of a workout or a treatment. When it comes to specifying locks, the approach should be the same. Doing away with keys and using coded locks has a wealth of holistic benefits. Guests get a better experience. Staff can focus on their roles. Cleaning can be more efficient. And facilities need not run at a reduced capacity because lockers are out of order.
Explore the features and benefits of the KitLock by Codelocks range in full: www.codelocks.co.uk/locker-locks
Codelocks– Enquiry 23
CMS Danskin’s acoustic saddle system fulfils brief for striking new hotel
CMS Danskin Acoustics supplied its Smartspan saddle system for the W Edinburgh, an eye-catching new addition to Edinburgh’s skyline.
Part of Marriott’s luxury W Hotels brand, the striking 12-storey ‘ribbon building’ required a floor specification to provide effective impact and airborne sound reduction, under floor access for cabling and precise levelling of concrete subfloors.
CMS Danskin Acoustics worked closely with BAM sub-contractor MMM Joinery Ltd whose remit was to install the floors and other
aspects of the interior finish in guest rooms, the sound suite and public areas in the main W Edinburgh ‘ribbon building’, so described as it is crafted from a winding bronzecoloured steel ‘ribbon’.
The installation of the CMS Danskin Acoustics’ saddle system created a void for services and it was used to level the floors to counter the 5-10mm tolerances of concrete subfloors. The project involved over 50,000 saddles. This dry floor solution eliminated wet trades, so enhancing efficiency on site.
CMS Danskin Acoustics’ saddle system uses structural flooring boards, C16 strength graded timber support bearers and saddles with an integral acoustic resilient layer to construct a floating floor on top of a base floor, in this case concrete.
The system should fit between the highest point of the base floor and the desired finished floor level.
Packers and, where necessary, elevating blocks are used to level areas below the high point. Flanking strips prevent sound passing into the space at the perimeter of the floor.
The installation Smartspan flooring board added to the acoustic performance of the saddle system at W Edinburgh.
CMS Danskin – Enquiry 24
Penketh Youth Centre
Supacord, Heckmondwike’s best-selling carpet celebrates over 50 years of success
Supacord is a renowned contract carpet synonymous with exceptional durability and longevity. Its palette of 42 colours and availability in both sheet and tile offers maximum versatility. Plus, Supacord has an acoustic tile backing option, ideal for reducing impact noise in schools.
For over 50 years, Supacord has been considered the number one carpet for schools, colleges and universities. It is easy to clean, will not ravel or fray and it has low installation and maintenance costs.
Made in the UK by Heckmondwike FB and available from stock.
Order a sample card today: www.heckmondwike-fb.com.
Heckmondwike – Enquiry 26
The UK’s largest independent paint company HMG Paints deserves a lap of honour after a suite of its products were used to refurbish a rusting spectators stand at Plymouth athletic stadium.
Rabart Decorators Centres worked with HMG Paints to provide the detailed specification needed to tackle the corroded structural steel beams of the stand.
Once the area was prepared with a thorough clean to remove all loose material Ferrozinc Rust Convertor was used to tackle any remaining rust.
This was followed by a coat of HMG’s BDX Synthetic Primer, a high-build, anti-corrosive alkyd primer and then two coats of C71
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.”
Friends joined Georgina to do the decorating. “I was amazed at the coverage and how far the paint went. All the painting volunteers found the paint easy to use and were equally impressed with the twocoat prime and paint system.”
Boon Café provides a hub for community activity and, in addition to the teas, coffees and tasty cakes, provides space for family storytelling, creative workshops and parties.
Bradite – Enquiry 28
Speedline, a high quality, single pack synthetic alkyd topcoat enamel. ‘We’ve worked with HMG Paints for about three years,” explained Peter Bird, Area Sales Manager for Rabart in Devon. “Everyone using it loves the products. It’s my go-to system for jobs involving metal and offers good protection against the local environment. The products were brush and roller applied for this job although spray is also possible dependent on the situation.”
The refurbishment of the spectators’ stand was undertaken by Plymouth-based JNE Construction on behalf of Plymouth City Council.
HMG Paints – Enquiry 27
Flotex leads by design
Forbo Flooring Systems has re-imagined its digitally printed textile range – Flotex, with the launch of new, exciting designs aimed at hospitality & leisure, education and offices.
Completely new to the Flotex offering, the organically inspired Flotex Advance range is split into Code and Latitude designs, with 39 contemporary patterns across a range of tones. Both are available in sheet and tile formats, with the sheet product benefiting from a new special ‘next’ backing, which means it can be installed adhesive-free or fully adhered. The Flotex Code collection is subtly flecked, featuring 26 colourways, the Latitude range is formed of 13 organic patterns.
Forbo Flooring Systems – Enquiry 29
Enhancing Playability and Longevity: Resurfacing with Playrite’s Clayrite MF
When the Westwood Campus Tennis Centre at the University of Warwick decided to resurface their four outdoor artificial clay courts, their goal was to enhance both the playability and longevity of the courts. After thorough consideration and consultation with the selected contractor, the ITFapproved Playrite surface, 'Clayrite MF', was chosen as the optimal solution.
The key objectives were to provide better protection for users, ensure all-year-round access, and accommodate both tennis and padel. The new surface aims to replicate the playability of natural clay while offering the durability and lower maintenance of an artificial surface.
The Clayrite MF surface is designed to blend seamlessly with its surroundings, providing a natural clay-like appearance that enhances the aesthetic appeal of the Tennis Centre. Additionally, the surface supports the university's sustainability initiatives by being durable and requiring less maintenance compared to natural clay courts. The installation is expected to significantly benefit both the university and the wider community by providing a high-quality, reliable playing surface that can be used year-round. This enhances the tennis program and encourages greater participation from both students and local community members.
The project involved collaboration between the University of Warwick, the contractor, and Playrite, the manufacturer of the Clayrite MF surface. This partnership ensured that the selected surface met the university's needs and was installed to the highest standards.
Feedback from the university's tennis clubs and members has been overwhelmingly positive. Users have praised the playability of the new surface, noting its similarity to natural clay and its suitability for various weather conditions. As Matthew Tew, Tennis Manager, noted, "We are very pleased with this surface and its playability, and initial feedback from our customers has been positive. This sand-filled artificial clay surface is a great addition to our centre and plays just like a real clay surface. As we head into the summer season, our clubs and members are looking forward to utilising this great facility."
Chris Pickles, Sales Director at Playrite, commented, "We are delighted to have partnered with the University of Warwick on this project. The Clayrite MF surface is an excellent choice for their tennis centre, offering the perfect balance of playability and durability."
To learn more about Playrite’s tennis surfaces visit playrite.co.uk
Why Bespoke Rooflights Better for Period properties
Living in a home that has a rich history can be an attractive proposition, but it can also be a bit of a headache, especially when it comes to renovation or refurbishment. Nothing is straightforward, when nothing is, well, straight! Finding a wall or a door frame that is square, or rafters that are equally spaced can present a challenge to even the most experienced builder or decorator.
Acommon theme among those that live in a period property is the need for a conservation rooflight that offers flexibility in its design. Rarely does a standard, off the shelf, rooflight match the requirement of a period property. Surely it makes no sense to change the roof structure of a 100 - year -old building to fit the standard shapes and sizes of modern day building materials?!
Fear not! Bespoke rooflights offer an excellent solution for traditional and period style homes. You can design your roof window to exactly the shape and size that it needs to be. You can design the spacing of the glazing bars to exactly fit the wonky rafters. You can choose materials and colours that compliment the internal and external aesthetic of your home. You can achieve an appearance that blends in with the rest of the building and just looks like it was meant to be there.
This can all be achieved while introducing the functionality and thermal performance of a rooflight that you would expect to see in a modern, contemporary home, such as high specification glazing, electronic actuation, wind and rain sensors and remote control operation.
The beauty of custom rooflight design lies in the ability to tailor every detail to your precise specifications.
Considerations should be given to whether you need an opening or fixed roof window–or perhaps a combination of both.
If you require an opening rooflight then some conservation rooflight manufacturers offer a range of options depending on whether you prefer manual or electric operation. Custom roof windows also offer the ability to select glazing options that suit
your energy efficiency requirements. From double-glazed to triple-glazed units, the choice of glazing directly impacts insulation and thermal performance.
The internal liner of your rooflight not only provides additional thermal performance, but also completes the appearance of the inside of the rooflight and you should always consider the use of a hard wood, rather than plastic.
You should also be able to finish your rooflight in an RAL colour of your choice both on the inside and outside.
Bespoke rooflight design is an art that marries aesthetics with functionality. Your vision, material choices and the final touches come together to create a product that transforms your space.
Whether you’re looking to illuminate a heritage property or infuse a contemporary home with natural light, the process ensures that your bespoke rooflight is a work of art, tailored to your exact requirements.
For more information, visit our website at www.stellarooflight.co.uk, email info@stellarooflight.co.uk or phone 01794 745445
These small but mighty inclusions prevent damage caused by doors colliding with walls – an essential requirement in hightraffic areas like schools and hospitals.
Safety is a critical consideration, especially in environments with children, older adults, or individuals with disabilities. Doors that open too widely or quickly can pose significant injury risks. Door limiting stays control the door's range and speed, mitigating these risks effectively.
Strand Hardware offers a range of Britishmade door limiting stays, including:
• D6095 – Friction Mortice Restraining Stay: Suitable for timber, aluminium, and PVC-u doors, it is morticed into the door head with an adjustable friction block to control speed and restrict opening angles between 70-110 degrees.
Staying Power: Enhancing Door Functionality and Safety
In architectural design, every element, including hardware, actively contributes to functionality, safety, and durability. Smaller items, such as door limiting stays, may often be overlooked but if applied effectively, ‘punch above their weight’ as a vital safety and space-saving addition.
fixed, and suitable for various door materials, it controls speed and restricts angles between 90-100 degrees.
• D7096 – Friction Surface Mounted Restraining Stay: Similar to D7095 but with a finished extrusion and arm.
• D7107 Heavy Duty
Friction Stay: Ideal for external doors requiring a 90-degree restricted opening angle.
They are suitable for both internal and external doors. They are ideal for properties with limited space and frequently used in kitchens and bathrooms, dry riser cupboards in the communal areas of high-rise buildings, and commercial settings providing enhanced safety and structural protection.
For more information, visit Strand Hardware or contact info@strandhardware.co.uk / 01922 639111.
Strand Hardware – Enquiry 33
Senior launches ReAL 2.0 - a new UK-sourced low carbon aluminium extrusion offering
Window, door and curtain walling systems designer and manufacturer, Senior Architectural Systems is going the extra mile to reduce the carbon footprint generated through the transportation of its products by supporting the use of UK-sourced closed-loop recycled aluminium.
Branded as ReAL 2.0, Senior is launching a new bespoke scheme for customers who are looking to further reduce the embodied carbon generated through the manufacture, transportation, and disposal of aluminium fenestration products.
Senior can now manufacture its full range of products from aluminium extrusions comprising a minimum of 75 per cent recycled content from post-consumer scrap materials which are sourced and processed in the UK using low carbon methods.
Garador’s side-hinged Windsor designed for modern living
Garador’s Windsor side-hinged door, with its modern design and useful features, is without doubt one of the standout garage doors of 2024. The Windsor side-hinged door has been specifically designed for homeowners requiring frequent access to their garage. With its simple level handle, homeowners can easily pop into the garage to retrieve or store essential items. Outward opening doors also mean it is suitable for parking a vehicle inside the garage as well. Garador’s Windsor side-hinged door is available in a wide colour choice.
Garador – Enquiry 36
As the largest privately owned aluminium systems house in the UK, all of Senior’s products are manufactured in South Yorkshire.
The new offering is currently only available to customers on request but Senior hopes that as more aluminium from the UK is able to be recycled and reused, supply will increase to reduce the reliance on importing recycled aluminium from overseas.
To support this, where possible Senior will also work with select clients to manage the removal of older aluminium fenestration products from retrofit schemes for recycling.
Senior Architectural Systems’ managing director Mark Wadsworth said: “It’s important to us as a manufacturer and for our customers working in the construction industry that we are continuously looking for new ways to reduce the environmental impact of the work we do and the buildings we can help create. Senior has long championed the use of recycled aluminium and as a UK based supplier, the transportation of our products is already less carbon intensive than others.”
Senior Architectural Systems – Enquiry 35
Station improves assisted travel experience
A new lounge, that has been designed for Network Rail passengers using the assistance programme, has opened at Paddington station. TORMAX was contracted to work with Saper Glass to manufacture and install an automatic, single sliding door system, giving clear and easy access into the Assisted Travel Lounge (ATL).
Powered by the in-house designed TORMAX iMotion 2202 door drive, smooth and reliable operation is assured thanks to the innovative design of the high torque, synchronous motor that ensures rapid response to approaching foot traffic.
Featuring none of the parts that regularly wear out, such as gears and brushes, the iMotion motor offers a longer lifespan, with lower maintenance demands, than other similar door operators.
Appointed as main contractor, Consortia Group was responsible for delivering the new ATL, greatly improving accessibility within this major transport hub.
Ensuring the TORMAX automatic door opens and closes appropriately every time, speed settings and hold-open time can be easily adjusted by station staff via a user-friendly keypad.
Maximising system performance, an intelligent microprocessor control system guarantees permanent monitoring of door leaf movement, making automatic adjustments in response to say a build-up of debris on the floor.
TORMAX
Paddington
Booth launches industry-first fire door manufactured without
flammable materials
Booth Industries, a leading manufacturer of high performance, bespoke and engineered doorsets, has today launched industry-first firedoor sets to be made without the use of potentially flammable materials.
The Crompton 240 is manufactured with a stiffened-steel core, rather than using cardboard honeycomb and polyurethane glue, both of which can ignite and allow the spread of fire.
In tests, it consistently delivered four hours of proven fire integrity, making it the perfect choice for settings where safety is paramount such as airports, railway stations, nuclearlicensed sites, hospitals and data centres, to name a few. Mike Jenkinson, managing director of Bolton-based Booth Industries, said: “We’re excited to bring this new door to the market, which is the result of significant investment in research and development over the last 12 months and addresses a critical safety concern identified during rigorous testing.
“Traditional steel doors with cardboard honeycomb cores have been widely used across the industry, but our investigations revealed a potential fire hazard associated with this design. As a company known for market-leading products, we took decisive action to prioritise safety and develop a superior solution.
“The Booth name is synonymous with high-performance, high-integrity protection systems and it is thanks to the skill of our team that we are now able to launch the Crompton 240 - providing total reassurance that our doors will withstand the most challenging conditions, protecting people and infrastructure should the worst occur.”
Fully recyclable, the Crompton 240 was tested to BSEN 1723-1 in 2023 and is sold under Certifire Certificate CF 10183. During five separate tests, the doorset demonstrated no integrity failures, beyond 240 minutes.
The door and frame are constructed from high quality 1.5mm steel, providing real durability and integrity while the Zintec or 316 Stainless Steel options enhance corrosion resistance and longevity.
E240-certified glazing can also be included, providing useful visibility while maintaining fire integrity.
For further details, visit www.booth-industries.co.uk/fire-doors
Booth Industries – Enquiry 38
ANSELMI
• completely concealed hinge system for residential doors
• for timber and aluminium frames
• for unrebated residential doors
• 3D adjustable
• load capacity up to 60 kg
• opening angle 180°
It all hinges on excellence.
• hinges with reduced frame part 21 mm available www.simonswerk.co.uk
ESG and Origin Architectural help customer enjoy the view
In a highly successful collaboration between ESG and Origin Architectural, the owner of a prestigious private property is now enjoying panoramic views of the Essex countryside from the first-floor balcony of a stunning balustrade created using ESG Tufflam™ glass.
The owner of this luxury house turned to Origin Architectural, one of the UK’s largest suppliers of the balustrade and glass hardware products, to provide a bespoke balustrade with no top handrail, to minimise interruption of the surrounding vista. Origin Architectural in turn consulted ESG, both parties agreeing that in order to comply with Building Regulations, the balustrade should be constructed using 17.5mm toughened laminated glass from ESG’s Tufflam™ range.
As the client did not wish to have a handrail, Origin Architectural and ESG recommended that the channel system, which was fully tested in advance, should be installed first, so that pinpoint accurate glass sizes could then be confirmed and ordered from ESG.
With the channel tested to 0.74Kn, the required line load test for a domestic balcony at height, the channel was ready to receive the glass panels. The customer wanted a rapid turnaround, which included sign off by
Building Control. ESG created drawings for both Origin Architectural and the customer to approve and submit to Building Control. Overall balustrade height was 1100mm from the bottom of the profile to the top of the glass panels.
Once plans were agreed, Tufflam™ panel sizes were calculated by Origin Architectural using their software, and cut with precision by ESG, using state of the art equipment, to provide an exact fit for the expanse of the balustrade. The panels were delivered to site by ESG’s own delivery team in just over a week.
With the panels installed, the customer is delighted with the finished result and enjoying the uninterrupted view. Nick Watson at Origin Architectural commented, “We were delighted to work with ESG using their Tufflam laminated glass. Their high quality glass and fast turnaround were invaluable on this prestigious project. Our customer couldn’t have been happier with both the
speed of delivery and the quality of the glass!”
Susan Sinden, Commercial Manager for ESG, said, “The collaborative approach to this project ensured that all parties, including the customer and Building Control, had a straightforward and satisfying experience, which resulted in a stunning end product. The pooling of expertise between glass processor and balustrade expert is always advisable, especially in a bespoke project such as this. It’s also very rewarding working with fellow experts who are masters in their own field.”
ESG Tufflam™ is one of the UK’s most sought after toughened glass product ranges, favoured by architects, balustrade experts, partitioners and shopfitters. ESG welcomes consultation in advance of orders on specialist projects.
www.esg.glass
ESG Glass – Enquiry 40
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Promat SYSTEMGLAS® specified for Scottish museum’s fire rated viewing window
Fire resistant glazing system Promat SYSTEMGLAS® has been chosen for the replacement of a large multi-pane window as part of a refurbishment project at Scotland’s National Museum of Rural Life in East Kilbride.
Spanning nearly seven metres with a height of one metre, the new viewing window not only improves aesthetics and acoustics, but it helps the museum’s operator, National Museums Scotland, to optimise fire safety within the building it has occupied since it opened in 2001.
A museum, historic farmhouse and working farm, the National Museum of Rural Life explores the land, people and ways of working that have shaped Scotland's rural history. Working with Hoskins Architects, Promat UK was tasked with developing a fire rated solution for the prominently located window in the main exhibition hall.
The brief demanded EI (integrity and insulation) protection for 60 minutes in line with the fire strategy.
The timber frame SYSTEMGLAS Ligna EI60 system was chosen, incorporating the intumescent Promat Promaseal-PL® Strip around the perimeter of the frame as part of a tested solution.
The window was split with three vertical mullions, with Promat F1 glass used in line with its fire test certification which confirms its suitability for use in a landscape orientation. The resulting glazing provides an EI60 fire rating with the added benefit of UV stability, as well as an excellent acoustic rating of 45dBrw.
Main contractors FES engaged with Promat SYSTEMGLAS recommended installer, Rated Solutions, to complete the installation of the window, as well as provide a Promat timber fire rated door and over panel within the cafeteria area. Given this clear and traceable supply chain covering raw materials sourcing, manufacturing and installation, Promat UK was able to issue a certificate of conformity on completion of the glazing and door, in line with its 360-degree ‘wheel of assurance’ and the golden thread, to offer additional peace of mind for building staff and visitors.
The project was another successful SYSTEMGLAS installation by Kent-based Rated Solutions, who have worked on a number of fire resistant glazing contracts with Promat over recent years, including the recent refurbishment of the Victorian Market in Inverness.
Fodos Joannides “Joe” from Rated Solutions added, “This was another interesting SYSTEMGLAS project that we were proud to be involved with given the unique nature of this museum. The Ligna system, as with all the versions in the SYSTEMGLAS range, is excellent to work with, giving clients finished windows and doors that tick all the boxes.”
In addition to the Ligna timber frame system, Promat SYSTEMGLAS provides architects with the scope to create fire resistant glass screens, with or without doors, and numerous other glazing elements with steel frames, or frames which can be over-clad, painted or concealed in the surrounding walls, floors and ceilings to give a virtually frameless look.
To find out more about Promat SYSTEMGLAS and Promat UK’s 360-degree ‘wheel of assurance’ visit www.promat.com/en-gb
Promat – Enquiry 42
Save time on specification with IronmongeryDirect
Leading online supplier, IronmongeryDirect, has introduced several new door kits to its exclusive Altro range, designed to make the specification process for door hardware even easier.
The door kits available at IronmongeryDirect provide a complete pack of the hardware needed, streamlining the specification process as well as offering costs savings on the curated bundle as a whole.
Altro, one of IronmongeryDirect’s exclusive brands, offers a wide range of kits for different types of doors, with the simplest comprising door handles, latches and hinges.
There is also an array of styles to choose from to suit any aesthetic requirement, from traditional and understated to more impactfully designed pieces. For a cohesive finish and integrated appearance, each kit contains colour matched components.
Highlights from the range of door kits include the Altro Bella, Altro Nova and Altro Ella.
The Altro Bella affords users with a sleek, cylindrical straight handle option and is available in different kit configurations depending on the requirements. Customers can also choose from polished chrome, satin chrome and black nickel finishes.
The Altro Nova kits offer a stylish handle featuring the on-trend lines design, with a choice of antique brass and matt black finishes.
Also available in the striking matt black finish is the Altro Ella, with latch, bathroom lock, 3 lever sashlock, and deadbolt lock kit options to choose from.
IronmongeryDirect’s exclusive Altro collection features 1,900 product solutions suitable for commercial and residential projects that includes a comprehensive selection of door, window and cabinet hardware to shelving,
storage, locks, latches and more – all in a variety of styles and finishes.
All Altro ironmongery comes with a 10year guarantee for peace of mind and is manufactured from durable standard-grade materials such as 304 Stainless Steel, zinc alloy and mild steel.
Award-winning online supplier, IronmongeryDirect, has over 18,000 products in stock including everything from door furniture and cabinet hardware to sliding door gear and lighting. All products are regularly reviewed to ensure customers are offered competitive prices, including bulk buy savings on over 12,000 products.
Specifiers can choose from a range of flexible delivery options to meet the needs of busy project schedules, including next day delivery, 2-working day delivery, same day delivery to postcodes in selected areas of London and the East of England, as well as click and collect from 6,500 pick up points across the UK.
Find out more about IronmongeryDirect’s Altro range at: www.IronmongeryDirect. co.uk/Brands/Altro.
IronmongeryDirect
Enquiry
Antique Brass Finish
Unlocking door hardware compliance benefits and reducing risks
Specialist architectural ironmongery consultancy firm, Iron Out, is launching the Safer Ironmongery Initiative, a brand-new awareness campaign to simplify compliance in ironmongery and doors.
Tailored to support professionals in the built environment, the initiative addresses queries starting with "What exactly is an architectural ironmonger anyway?" and extends through buying, installing or maintaining ironmongery and navigating the process of undertaking due diligence and ensuring compliance.
The Safer Ironmongery Initiative is funded through advocates - ironmongery suppliers who are passionate about ensuring that their customers are clear on how to verify organisational or product claims. These advocates can use the initiative's advocate logo and feature on ironout.co.uk/info/directory
This collaborative support ensures ongoing dissemination of valuable resources and education to the industry.
Fully certified locks from Zoo
Zoo Hardware has introduced a new range of London Fire Brigade locks, for use on doors and cupboards where emergency access is required by use of the common London Fire Brigade key.
Now regularly used beyond a firefighting context, London Fire Brigade locks have become a more universal solution, serving as a convenient deadlock for homes and offices. The Zoo London Fire Brigade locks ensure seamless security for shared keys used in a diverse range of environments, from service riser doors, meter cupboards and communal entrances in residential complexes to car park barriers, bin stores and entrances to public buildings.
Zoo Hardware – Enquiry 45
The Safer Ironmongery Initiative aims to bridge the gap between ironmongers and professionals by simplifying the complexities associated with this specialised construction product.
This is supported by the collaborative efforts of participating ironmongery and door suppliers through the Iron Out programme, which provides a comprehensive service and awareness campaign.
Key features of this initiative include answering technical questions and writing informative articles, guiding professionals to relevant resources and publications from various trade associations and organisations, and providing opportunities for continuous professional development (CPD). Additionally, Iron Out extends its services to collaborate
with organisations that produce consumerfacing articles, offering support to ensure technical and factual accuracy, thus meeting the demand for reliable and updated information.
The Benefits of the Safer Ironmongery Initiative include significant advantages for professionals engaging with it. Participants gain access to an impartial service that promotes a united message around safety.
Iron Out – Enquiry 44
Croft Launches New
British-owned architectural hardware brand, Croft, is delighted to introduce the newest rose design to its dynamic collection – the Minimalist Rose.
A beautiful and high-quality choice for a luxurious and clean aesthetic, the Minimalist Rose and Minimalist Rose for Turns are compatible with Croft’s Classic and Elements levers and turns, as well as the Classic knob designs.
Measuring 26mm in diameter and 16mm for turns, the elegant Minimalist Rose sits unobtrusively on the door, allowing the finer details and silhouette of the paired hardware to take centre-stage. Pair the rose with the Minimalist Escutcheon for a cohesive scheme that adds subtle interest.
From the fluid silhouette of the Celeste Door Handle to the tactile Grace Door
Handle with ridged detailing and the Zeppelin Knob with its soft, oval shape, the Minimalist Rose is incredibly versatile and timeless – the perfect addition to traditional and contemporary door levers, knobs and turns alike.
Both the Minimalist Rose and Escutcheon are available in over 25 of Croft’s signature finishes and patinas. With a wide range of high-quality rose designs available, Croft has a different shape, size and finish to suit any project.
To read more, visit www.croft.co.uk
Croft – Enquiry 46
Minimalist Rose
What specifiers need to look for when reviewing render and EWI fire safety performance
The issue of fire safety remains of paramount importance, says Lee Lambley, technical director at Saint-Gobain Weber. The Building Safety Act is arguably causing the biggest changes the construction industry has seen since the implementation of the Building Regulations in 1984.
As part of this, there has been a large focus on the performance claims of product manufacturers. This was originally highlighted in Dame Judith Hackitt’s 2018 Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety, when she pointed out that the system for testing and ‘certifying’ products for use in construction was “disjointed, confused, unhelpful, and lacks any sort of transparency.”
Since then, the Construction Product Association (CPA) has initiated the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI), which aims to provide assurance that users of product information have the necessary facts when making decisions about specifying or installing their products.
The government’s Independent Review of the Construction Products Testing Regime further reinforced the need for accurate product information, concluding that manufacturers have a responsibility to develop products that do the job expected of them and to market them honestly, making no false or misleading claims.
The design of any EWI or cladding system is required to resist predicted wind load pressure both in relation to the location and height of the building, and considering its orientation, surroundings and building design/shape along with the weight of the system. The specified fixings and fixing systems need to be designed to deal with these predicted loads in mind and installed accordingly.
Any installed cladding system must be able to resist the effects of predicted wind pressure.
Normally performed to establish the loadbearing capacity and strength of fixings specified for a wall, slab or soffit, pull out tests are vital to ensure that anything fixed to the building will stay safely secured under duress. In the case of EWI, the correct length, type and material of fixing are all relevant to ensuring the insulation is reliably fastened to the substrate.
Look much deeper into claims around fire safety performance than you may have done in the past.
There is also the possibility that product/ system may also need to meet a fire resistance requirement in addition to reaction to fire, which takes into account load-bearing capacity, integrity and insulation.
Product decisions should only be made based on the full suite of documentation, including the complete set of individual test reports to fully appreciate if the proposed solution meets all requirements of Building Regulations.
Historically, manufacturers have only tested lighter colours such as white or cream for reaction to fire – not just because these are the most popular colours, but also because of the amount of organic (and therefore less combustible) content, so they are more likely to pass a fire test more easily. This is clearly not in the spirit of the Hackitt recommendations, nor the culture of product safety now required.
An appropriate range of colours should be tested separately with the support of a UKAS-accredited testing facility. >>
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>> Weber is one such manufacturer to have this assessment covering its full colour range – including reds, which are most likely to contain the highest level of organic content. Dark colours such as greys and yellows can also throw up interesting test results that need careful checking.
The Euroclass certification for a product should align with the individual test reports. The test reports should align with the Declaration of Performance (DoP).
Another thing that needs checking is the date of the test data to ensure it is still valid and hasn’t expired.
The biggest hurdle is just becoming better educated and familiar with testing regimes and what different test reports are saying. Once you are familiar with what you’re looking at, it’s not difficult to identify anomalies.
Safe
for people and the environment
WOODSAFE PRO Green (WPG) is the result of extensive development of health and environmentally friendly fire-protected wood without the content of labelled hazardous chemical content. The product is now being launched in Europe.
For years, PRO has been used in thousands of wood projects to protect people and buildings from fire.
WoodSAFE now goes further and strengthens market leading position by meeting the market demand for more environmentally friendly solutions without the use of functional borates. This is done by replacing the PRO product with WPG.
The new formulation of the fire retardant WPG does not contain any chemicals listed on the REACH SVHC list.
WOODSAFE WPG is a premium product that fulfils the requirements of the EU Construction Products Regulation CPR 305/2011. Some of its characteristics include: 100% free of substances requiring labelling, approved emission values, pH neutral, non-hygroscopic properties.
At launch, the WPG product is environmentally assessed and approved under all relevant assessment schemes, giving municipalities, government agencies, architects and builders the opportunity to use wood in both indoor and outdoor environments for a sustainable future and legacy for future generations.
Fire stopping
FSi Promat has launched a new white paper highlighting the impact dynamic movement can have on the effectiveness of penetration seals – and what can be done to ensure passive fire protection remains compliant for the lifetime of a building.
The stress that movement can put on a building can cause breaches, tears and cracks in the construction materials, including in fire stopping that has been used to reinstate the compartment to contain the spread of flames, smoke, heat and toxic gases. Despite the potentially serious impact on building safety, accommodating dynamic movement in fire stopping plans is often overlooked.
Approved Document B (fire safety) states the need for an “appropriate fire seal” that will last for the lifetime of the building. But with no formal testing mechanism under the EN1366-3 standard or European Technical Assessment (ETA) specifically for movement within penetration seals, this element often falls out of the scope of building design.
The new white paper, ‘Managing Movement: Accommodating dynamic movement in fire stopping for penetration seals’ takes an indepth look at the impact of movement on fire stopping, existing legislation and guidance around the issue, and how FSi Promat has engineered a solution – plus the evaluation to support that solution.
Images:
1-3: Saint-Gobain Weber Credit Donal Murphy
4: Woodsafe
5: FSi Promat
Enquiry 49
Magply specified for roof build up on Ballymena “large church facility”
The Gateway on the outskirts of Ballymena is one of the most ambitious private developments ever undertaken in Northern Ireland, Green Pastures.
The 12,000m2 church facility comprises a 1,650 seat auditorium with wrap around malls and recreational, training and other ancillary facilities all extending across some 24 acre site, where the complex roof construction is making use of Magply boards as part of a high performance specification.
Located on the outskirts of the town, the project has taken shape due to the rapid growth in popularity of the Green Pastures Church, with planning permission having been obtained to include other activities, which will be of such value to the people of County Antrim.
The Green Pastures Church is currently located in a smaller purpose built facility in Galgorm, Ballymena and has sold its current facility to adjacent business, WrightBus.
In 2016, however, the church leadership team signed a multi-million pound contract with main contractor Martin & Hamilton to construct what has been described as a stateof-the-art – church facility the like of which has not been see in UK or Ireland. Designed by HPA Architects from Craigavon, it will be the new home for Green Pastures Church family and the support base for all its ministries operating throughout the wider region.
The recently completed 3,600m2 roof over the auditorium and sports hall uses perforated metal decking to span the main
steelwork, with an infill of Rockwool insulation. This is then covered by a vapour check membrane and a layer of 12mm thick Magply boards, specified to carry 150mm of Hardrock DD underlay and a further 60mm of Hardrock Multifix insulation which is weathered by a Sarnafil single ply roofing membrane.
All the materials were supplied by Pawling’s Insulation & Supplies Ltd. of Belfast and installed by McCavery Roofing, creating a roof construction offering excellent thermal, acoustic and fire performance, as well as the ability to cope with snow and wind loadings as well as other climatic conditions.
The site manager for McCavery Roofing, Stevie Jones, commented: “This is a large installation of some 3,600 square metres, with the auditorium and the higher level roof over the sports complex, both featuring the use of the Magply boards. They are being mechanically fixed to the decking prior to installing the two layers of Rockwool and then the Sarnafil membrane.
“Work has gone well so far and we expect to complete the roof installation to schedule by the end of March.”
Magply features an MgO formulation to offer a fire-safe and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional plywood or OSB products.
Additionally, the unique production process keeps the chloride content to just 0.01%, enhancing both stability and long term durability. Crucially, Magply carries internationally recognised accreditations confirming the boards’ ability to deliver 90 minutes’ integrity and insulation under test conditions.
The church facility is scheduled for completion in autumn next year and it also has its own restaurant, coffee shop, gym, dance studio, sports shall, training college and recording studios.
The wider Gateway development includes housing, a hotel, supermarket, car showrooms, riverside restaurants, an outdoor pursuits’ centre, a training and education centre, student accommodation, a nursing home, an all-weather football pitch and a wedding chapel. This will be an ongoing development over the next 10 years or so.
Magply - Enquiry 50
When you specify Promat SYSTEMGLAS®, you don’t just get fire rated glazing. This fully tested, completely traceable EI ‘integrity and insulation’ rated system enables the creation of safe, secure, thermally efficient buildings in which users can have the peace of mind that they will be protected in the event of a fire.
All without compromising sustainability goals thanks to Promat’s highly resourceefficient facilities and environmentally responsible manufacturing processes.
Promat SYSTEMGLAS Specified for a Reason
Promat UK Ltd 0800 588 4444 promatglass@etexgroup.com
A year on... Reflections on the Building Safety Act 2022
By Andrew Wallace, managing director of Halspan.
As we mark the first anniversary of the Building Safety Act 2022, it is an opportune time to take stock of the sweeping changes this landmark legislation has ushered in, reshaping the building safety landscape in the UK. Born of the tragic lessons of the Grenfell Tower fire, the Act has set a new precedent in building safety and is a testament to a collective resolve to prevent such a catastrophe from recurring.
A new era of accountability
The Act, which came into force in April 2023, has imposed stricter safety standards on high-rise buildings and high-risk structures, mandating more safety reviews and regular inspections. Perhaps the most significant shift since the Act's implementation is the heightened sense of accountability within the industry. The focus on ethical responsibility and proactive fire safety management has never been more pronounced.
New regulatory powers
The creation of the Building Safety Regulator has been instrumental in promoting this new culture of compliance. With a vigilant authority overseeing safety standards throughout a building’s life cycle, we now have a clearer delineation of responsibilities to ensure that safety is always prioritised and carefully managed. The stakes are too high to do otherwise.
The ‘Golden Thread’ of information
A revolutionary element of the Act is the 'golden thread' of information, a digital record-keeping system that ensures every detail about a building's design, construction, and ongoing safety measures is meticulously documented and maintained. With this in place, there is no room for errors to occur or concerns missed. Halspan takes great pride in playing a role in this, with our revolutionary Halspan® Tracker digital asset management software system that ensures compliance and mitigates risk at every stage of the
Golden Thread – from production to testing, to installation and ongoing maintenance for complete peace of mind.
Shifting the paradigm
The Act has compelled us to rethink our approach to building safety from the ground up. Fire safety considerations are now integral to the planning process from the earliest design stages. This proactive stance ensures that safety measures are compliant but also robust and effective.
Additionally, the Act mandates greater involvement of residents in safety matters. Building managers must provide more information to residents and facilitate resident engagement in safety decisions. This not only empowers those living in potentially high-risk buildings but also ensures that their concerns and insights are heard and inform the safety management process.
Cultural shift in the industry
One of the most encouraging outcomes of the Fire Safety Act is the significant cultural shift within the industry. There's a renewed dedication to ethical responsibility and commitment to resident safety. The Building a Safer Future Charter now extends to all building types, fundamentally transforming the industry's approach with safety and responsibility deeply embedded within its DNA. This mindset ensures everyone involved - from architects and engineers to fabricators, builders, and facility managers - is dedicated to creating safe living environments.
The new checkpoints during design and construction ensure safety is a priority at every step. These measures are crucial for making sure safety is built into projects from start to finish.
Technological Innovation
Technological advancements have played a central role in this transformation. Tools like SAAS, VR, and specialised applications are now used to simulate fire scenarios, offering invaluable insights into fire prevention techniques and their practical applications. Such innovations provide a hands-on understanding that traditional methods could never achieve, allowing us to visualise and prepare for potential fire incidents more effectively.
For more than 25 years, Halspan has spearheaded the design of leading fire door safety products and services. Halspan® Tracker coupled with Halspan® Inspection Services ensures ongoing compliance and enhances building fire safety management. Our world-leading, Halspan® Verified fully
certified fire door safety products integrate seamlessly with modern fire safety systems, ensuring comprehensive protection and features in prominent buildings globally. By combining advanced materials with cuttingedge technology, we strive to uphold a new standard in fire safety, proving how innovation can enhance both prevention and response in the event of a fire.
Ethical imperatives
In the wake of the Grenfell tragedy, the construction industry has embraced a more ethical stance. The Act has clarified responsibilities, ensuring that duty holders and 'Accountable Persons' are clearly defined and held to the most stringent standards. Regular inspections, transparent communication with residents, and maintenance of safety records are now non-negotiables in building management.
Moreover, the consequences of noncompliance are stark and severe. The industry has adopted a zero-tolerance policy on negligence, with hefty fines and even prison sentences reinforcing the critical importance of adhering to safety regulations.
Improved competence requirements
Enhanced training and competence standards for those involved in the design, construction, and management of buildings are now mandatory. These requirements ensure that all personnel develop the necessary skills and knowledge to uphold high safety standards, thus elevating the overall quality of safety management across the industry.
Looking ahead
As we move forward, it’s crucial to maintain momentum and keep building on the significant progress made over the past year to ensure that every resident can live with the confidence that their safety is our utmost priority. Continued vigilance, innovation, and a commitment to ethical responsibility are essential for the entire industry.
For more information on how Halspan can help you navigate evolving fire door regulations and legislative obligations, call +44 (0)3300 563836 or email info@halspan.com
Halspan – Enquiry 52
SMART Fire Alarm Panels
Safe in our hands
From early warning through to FIRE detection and suppression, Kentec Electronics is a worldleading manufacturer of life safety solutions, with the international standards to match. The SMART, highly-sophisticated features embedded in our future-proof systems deliver the optimum in fire safety management, keeping your people, property and assets protected at all times. We call it Manufacturing Expertise and it’s a philosophy that applies to everything we do.
CGT Security launches a new industrial door with amazing thermal performance
Following the successful launch of the Intimidator Industrial door range, CGT Security are launching the Intimidator IR-X thermal industrial door with amazing insulation properties.
Patented thermal break technology on the Intimidator IR-X removes the cold bridge through the joints between the laths, giving a higher thermal performance than standard insulated shutters.
The U value is traditionally stated as a through-lath metric, but on a standard shutter much of the heat transfer is through the joint between the laths, so the thermal break technology of the IR-X reduces the overall temperature transfer by removing the cold bridge through the joint, as well as having a soft, PVC lip between the laths for even greater insulation.
The curtain of the shutter has an integral rubber top seal for a reduction in air flow between the frame and door, and the guide rails have internal brush seals to give even greater insulation. This gives an overall U value for the whole curtain as 2.8W/ m²K compared to a typical insulated shutter U
value of 4.3 W/m²K. The Intimidator IR-X has been independently certified by the Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) to LPS 1175 Issue 8 standard up to a B3 (SR2) rating and has Secured By Design Police Preferred Accreditation.
The combination of these smart features produces a secure, high speed industrial door with superb thermal performance, making it especially suitable for production facilities, utilities buildings, logistics depots and warehouses where low noise levels and good insulation are
important. To see the Intimidator IR-X video go to cgtsecurity.com.
CGT Security – Enquiry 54
Tested to meet BS EN 1364-1:2015, 50mm Fire Barrier EN is available with a black foil facing on one or both sides, for single- and double-layer systems respectively.
“Fire Barrier EN will replace our existing fire barrier products,” said Will Wigfield, Product Manager HVAC & Fire Protection at ROCKWOOL. “With the two options now available, we are underlining our commitment to ensuring that ROCKWOOL products are tested to EN standards wherever possible, while simplifying specification by streamlining the range.
“Customers will see that we have built upon and expanded the scope of application available from ROCKWOOL. Depending on the application and fixing method, Fire Barrier EN offers fire resistance of up to two hours.”
Fire Barrier EN has been tested in a series of common applications including below concrete soffits and within timber joist construction. Steel, copper and plastic pipes, as well as timber beams and cable trays were tested protected with a 300mm sleeve of Fire Barrier EN stitched-back on each side.
ROCKWOOL launches Fire Barrier EN
To help designers and specifiers improve building fire safety, stone wool insulation manufacturer ROCKWOOL® has launched a new fire barrier product that is tested in accordance with the latest BS EN standards.
Fire Barrier EN launches on 15th May 2024 following the expiration of Fire Barrier and Fire Barrier Slab certifications on 1st May 2024. Specifications written prior to this date will remain valid, but ROCKWOOL recommends swapping specifications to Fire Barrier EN wherever possible to benefit from the latest EN testing. Fire Barrier and Fire Barrier Slab will remain available to support ongoing projects until 15th November 2024, when they are formally discontinued.
ROCKWOOL – Enquiry 55
A1 Non Combustible Magply Recovery / Protection Roofing Board
Magply recovery and protection boards have been developed to meet the roofing industry need for a cost-effective, lightweight and fireproof board that will provide an inert and stable separating layer for all types of waterproofing overlay applications. It can also be used as a tough, durable and reusable protection layer over completed installations.
Available in 6mm, 9mm and 12mm thicknesses, to suit both light and heavy traffic applications, the board can be easily cut to fit around penetrations and at abutments and can either be mechanically fixed or bonded into position when used in overlay applications.
6mm Magply will achieve B-roof T4 18mm and 20mm also available for roofing.
Enquiry 56
Safe Sure Secure
Patol has been manufacturing its own analogue and digital cables for almost 50 years, providing effective protection for applications throughout the world.
For areas requiring longer cable runs and for hazardous environments, fibre optic LHDC can offer significant benefits. A single AP Sensing cable can cover up to 16km and is recognised as a ‘simple apparatus’, using an optical laser pulse rather than a copper cable
ITP adds A1-rated breather membrane to its product portfolio
Building membrane specialist, Industrial Textiles & Plastics (ITP) Ltd, has expanded its portfolio of products with the introduction of a new Euroclass A1 non-combustible breather membrane providing maximum fire safety for external wall systems.
Manufactured by Serge Ferrari Stamisol UK and supplied in the UK by ITP, Stamisol A1 is a leading solution for closed façades, providing excellent breathability and the highest fire and smoke protection. Independently tested to EN 13501-1, with a lifetime guarantee for its A1 fire rating, the membrane is engineered for exceptional durability and has a W2 water tightness rating with 336 hours UV ageing prior to the water test.
ITP – Enquiry 58
Patol adds AP Sensing fibre optic fire detection products
Patol has announced a new partnership, adding the fibre optic technology of AP Sensing to its range of Linear Heat Detection Cable (LHDC) solutions.
and connected to an intrinsically safe (IS) barrier to ensure safe operation in potentially explosive atmospheres. It can withstand temperatures of up to 750°C (1400°F) without losing monitoring capabilities, with a sampling interval of less than one metre to accurately track the size and direction of a spreading fire, regardless of air currents.
Iain Cumner is Managing Director of Patol. : “We are delighted to be working with AP Sensing to complement our own product range. It is the market leading option for
fibre optic applications, perhaps best illustrated by the fact that it is protecting the Eurotunnel. Recognising this reputation we are retaining the AP Sensing branding, adding a Patol logo to the product to show that it is backed by our own engineering and design expertise.”
Clemens Pohl, CEO of AP Sensing, expressed his delight in collaborating with Patol in the special hazard fire detection market: “Patol's renowned expertise and exceptional service, especially in the UK and Ireland, makes them an ideal partner for us.”
Patol – Enquiry 57
FIREFLY spreading the word on compliant compartmentation
Changes to the fire regulations across the UK and the challenge of showing compliance with them, is motivating a growing number of construction professionals to book a place on FIREFLY®’s highly informative CPD seminar.
Entitled “The Design and Understanding of Passive Fire Protection and Compartmentation”, the 60 minute presentation provides an introduction to the behaviour of fire and the distinctions between active and passive protection measures, before moving on to explain the various ways in which fully compliant compartmentation can be achieved to prevent the spread of fire within a building.
Daniel Gordon, the Specification Sales Manager for Scotland and Ireland, comments: “Architects and fire assessors are joining to us to learn more about compartmentation and flexible fire barriers in particular and generally wanting us to update their conceptual knowledge of the subject as standards, compliance requirements and indeed solutions available all continue to evolve.
“As a result, myself and my colleagues in the technical sales team are delivering the training module –both online and direct to architects in their offices –on a weekly basis.
“Our webinars are hugely popular, but I particularly enjoy the in-practice sessions where it can be easier to get under the skin of a topic or question with a smaller group.”
TBA – Enquiry 59
Klass is a super stylish video intercom that is completely integratable with third party systems.
An elegant, inspiring design featuring an ultra-slim 3mm tempered glass finish, ideal for high-end applications.
Klass is available for our exclusive IPure video system.
Up to 16 IP video streams with picture in picture function
Built-in chronothermostat for temperature control
Built-in sensors for integration with third party systems and automation without limits
Remote control via Cloudnected App for maximum comfort & security
Video calls with high resolution camera
Handsfree or handset options available
Southern UK Office
1 Osprey, Trinity Park, Trinity Way, London, E4 8TD
tel: 0370 300 1240 sales@videxuk.com
Enquiry 60
Beat Overheating in Homes with Zehnder
By Nicola Rivers, indoor climate specialist at Zehnder Group UK.
Overheating is a real problem in residential buildings. When properties exceed a temperature threshold of 26°C for extended periods it can seriously affect occupant thermal comfort, health and wellbeing as well as productivity.
Within the UK Building Regulations, Approved Document Part O provides guidance to building designers on mitigating overheating in residential buildings and reducing these effects. Its prescriptive approach to optimising glazing, solar shading and natural ventilation clearly outlines preferred solutions to keeping a building cool.
But problems occur when external factors, such as security, noise and pollution, dictate that passive ventilation can’t be used to control internal temperatures and then Part O lists alternative means - from acoustic façade vents and mechanical ventilation to mechanical cooling.
Combining ventilation with active cooling can offer a low carbon solution to overheating issues in residential properties and can be designed in conjunction with dynamic thermal modelling.
Zehnder Group UK is an expert in overheating. We approach each project utilising our international expertise and offer a range of air distribution systems, some of which are complete standalone solutions and others which are combined, to deliver the required level of cooling capacity for the build, including ventilation and humidity control.
Our flagship solution, the Zehnder ComfoAir Q600 with ComfoClime, addresses overheating using tempered-air technology, making it perfect for new builds contending with environmental obstacles such as noise pollution or lack of shade.
Zehnder introduced this approach to cooling over 15 years ago and continues to evolve and develop the product to make it the best on the market to tackle residential overheating.
The system integrates heating, cooling, and ventilation functionalities, adhering to Part O/TM59 standards across a range of settings, from residential to care homes. Its innovative features, notably a reversible heat pump module, guarantee energy-efficient performance throughout the year.
Its use of the lower GWP refrigerant R32 within an efficient, sealed cycle also minimises environmental impact and this will remain compliant after 2025. The first system on the market to achieve this.
The Zehnder ComfoAir Q600 with ComfoClime also incorporates Zehnder’s ClimateSwitch technology, meaning the seasons merge silently. Using external and internal sensors, Zehnder's ventilation technology
cools and heats intuitively, at the right time and always with fresh filtered outside air. This provides pleasant temperatures in summer and comfortable warmth in winter as well as ventilated, clean air supply for a healthy and comfortable climate all year round.
This solution can be seamlessly integrated into various building projects, effectively streamlining overheating concerns, delivering a 'fit for purpose' product for diverse construction projects and ensuring cost-effective and efficient planning and implementation.
For more information visit: www.zehnder.co.uk/en/sectors-knowledge/ topics/overheating
Zehnder – Enquiry 61
Gilberts elevates the standard in ventilation at Nine Elms
One of London’s biggest regeneration projects, Nine Elms is being completely transformed into a new mixed-use area, including the addition of 20,000 homes.
One of the latest structures being delivered is Building N6, a 19-storey premium residential block. To achieve the high-end finish, Gilberts’ grilles and diffusers, supplied via DBA Air Solutions have been installed throughout all the apartments by ESG (Essex Service Group).
A combination of Gilberts HSL high-capacity slot diffusers and LN linear bar grilles ensure efficient supply and extract of ventilation in bedrooms, and open plan living spaces and kitchens for the central MVHR and 10no fan coil four-pipe heating & cooling systems, with the strategy validated by BIM.
The HSL diffusers deliver high capacity- up to 150l/s/m- of smooth, accurate airflow which makes them particularly suitable for integration into a fan coil strategy. With the multifunction LN grilles, which can attain up to 77% free ventilation area, the directional bars are manufactured level with the surrounding flange.
“The ethos behind the whole development is to create an outstanding living experience,” explained DBA’s Andy Lock. “Quality is therefore a fundamental, hence the specification and installation of Gilberts’ air movement components.”
Gilberts – Enquiry 62
Stylish inset Beltane woodburning stoves from Eurostove
Beltane Stoves from Eurostove combine durability and advanced engineering with modern combustion technology to create woodburning stoves that are easy to light and adjust.
The inset design is sleek and stylish and can be seamlessly integrated into an existing fireplace or nestled within a chimney breast for a focal point fire that will transform any living space into a cosy snug.
The Beltane Holford inset woodburning stove is powerful and affordable with a simple and elegant aesthetic that features innovative air wash technology to keep the glass clean for an uninterrupted view of the flickering flames within.
Eurostove – Enquiry 63
HRV COOL PLUS
Overheating indoors can present several dangers, such as heat-related stress, dehydration, and heightened health issues. The new Titon HRV Cool Plus™ offers a solution designed to deliver cooling and filtered air for user comfort in warmer weather conditions via a compact efficient MVHR and cooling module. Introducing the new
• Up to 3.3kW total cooling (subject to volume flow and relative humidity)
• Available for wall mounting or floor mounting
• Minimal maintenance of fully sealed refrigerant heat pump with coil & fin heat exchangers
• CIBSE accredited CPD course available on Part O
Hybrid cooling system from Nuaire tackles residential overheating
Nuaire’s Hybrid Cooling System is a cooling extension for its boxed-ventilation range designed to tackle residential overheating and provide a solution that meets Building Regulations.
Hamworthy’s new high temperature heat pump
Hamworthy Heating, technical experts of commercial heating and hot water products, have launched the Tyneham 290HT range with natural refrigerant, designed to achieve high flow temperatures of up to 75 C whilst benefiting from a low GWP of three. Building on the success of its popular Tyneham heat pump range, the new 290HT offers a co-efficiency of performance (COP) of up to 4.94 for optimum efficiency. To further enhance performance, the range also features an inverter-controlled compressor that can control the building temperature based on specific requirements of space. Quiet in operation, with noise levels as low as 64db(A), it is specifically designed for use in commercial buildings.
Hamworthy Heating – Enquiry 67
The Nuaire Hybrid Cooling System is an ancillary cooling module that works with the existing Nuaire MRXBOX MVHR products to provide a hybrid MVHR and cooling system – delivering clean indoor air, while combatting overheating – a modern day issue in many high-rise new builds.
The new system is an energy efficient, space-saving solution that can be effortlessly integrated to newbuilds that face overheating problems; such as floor to ceiling glazed apartments where natural ventilation is impossible due to environmental and noise pollution outside, and dwellings which are without shade to protect them from the sun’s heat.
Andrew Nash, Divisional Manager and Overheating Expert at Nuaire, said: “Overheating is a modern-day concern and not one which will be going away anytime soon – it can cause serious problems with sleep as well as heat stress, and present other major health risks meaning that often, overheated buildings are left abandoned in the hotter, summer months.
“Although current Building Regulations don’t talk enough about mechanical cooling, in most instances there is no other option.”
Nuaire – Enquiry 65
New ECOMOD CO2 commercial heat pumps
Domus Ventilation launches dMEV-NICO fan
Domus Ventilation has launched a new Decentralised Mechanical Extract Ventilation (dMEV) fan, dMEV-NICO, to provide continuous background extract ventilation for new build properties.
Designed to remove waste and moist air from a single wet room, such as bathrooms and kitchens, dMEV fans continuously extract the waste air at both low trickle or boost speeds which, in the case of the new dMEV-NICO, is automatic thanks to a built in monitoring device which detects occupants’ operation. dMEV-NICO provides a cost effective extract solution to achieve the ventilation rates set out in the latest edition of Part F and L Building Regulations.
Domus Ventilation – Enquiry 66
The new ECOMOD CO2 monobloc air source heat pumps form part of Ideal Heating Commercial’s range of next generation natural refrigerant heat pumps released in 2024, featuring maximum flow temperatures up to 70°C. As the name implies, natural refrigerants are those that occur naturally, as opposed to synthetically made. They have a low Global Warming Potential (GWP), making them the environmentally friendly option over their lifetime. In the case of ECOMOD CO2, which uses R744 natural refrigerant, the GWP rating is just 1, making them the ideal choice for customers with net zero commitments.
Ideal Heating – Enquiry 68
Domus Ventilation MVHR features in new SME Energy Centre
Domus Ventilation has provided an HRXE-HERA Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) unit for display at the newly opened SME Energy Centre in Surrey. The SME Energy Centre offers a welcoming environment where visitors can explore and discuss various energy-efficient technologies, and make informed decisions for their homes or businesses. Collaborating with local architects and councils, the SME Energy Centre is committed to educating clients, schools, and the general public on the benefits of renewable energy and green technologies. For those unable to visit the SME Energy Centre in person, a virtual tour is available online at www.energy-centre.co.uk
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Domus Ventilation – Enquiry
Causes of overheating in buildings
Stay in control with Zehnder
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Industrial family living with Havwoods
Located in Norwich, this spacious barn has undergone a major transformation into a modern family home built for 21st century living.
Sports flooring for the education sector
In the past decade, Junckers has supplied its solid hardwood sports flooring to over 800 schools, colleges and universities in the UK, providing flooring solutions that fulfil the criteria set out by the Department for Education. Well-known for its high quality, performance and user safety, Junckers’ sports flooring also scores highly when comparing maintenance, refurbishment, and replacement cycles. Junckers’ 22mm solid beech floor can be sanded and refinished eight to ten times without loss of performance, and with typical 12-year intervals between refurbishments, a design life of 60+ years is easily achieved.
Junckers – Enquiry 72
From the floors to the staircase and furniture, natural materials are at the heart of the design with flooring by Havwoods running throughout the bright and airy living spaces. The aesthetic replicates the rich tones and materials of a wood cabin, but with modern amenities to pair.
varied grain patterns, the planks introduce texture and warmth into each room, pairing beautifully with the soft furnishings and bright walls.
Providing a rustic appearance and durable flooring solution, the homeowners opted for Havwoods’ Somersby planks from the V Collection. Made from European Oak and a 3-layered engineered construction, the smoky grey boards can keep up with the demands of a busy household while being easy to maintain and visually striking.
Cohesive and seamless, the flooring effortlessly flows from the hallway into the kitchen and open-plan dining room / living room. With plenty of knotting and
The homeowners have installed architectural features including floor to ceiling windows and a floating staircase in a warmer wood, paired with internal glass walls to help reflect and let light run throughout. In the kitchen, the wood-front cabinets provide a darker contrast to the flooring, acting as a perfect middle ground between the lighter planks and dark features such as the black hardware and lighting.
Havwoods – Enquiry 71
This year’s InstallerSHOW at the NEC Birmingham saw waterproofing and insulation specialist Marmox showcase a selection of proven products, including its Showerlay and Minilay solutions.
The Kent based company also exhibited its widely specified Multiboard range, able to waterproof and insulate wetrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens.
Available in varying thicknesses from 4mm to 60mm, or as bath panel kits, niches and pipe boxing, the versatile Multiboard can be used on floors, walls and ceilings to help create an effective tanking solution.
Visitors saw the functionality of Marmox Showerlay, which is used to create a stylish wetroom floor – comprising pre-sloped flooring panels with integral drainage used to create 'level access' tiled shower area. When specified with Multiboard, an exceptionally stable 'decoupling’ surface is created to tile over. The combination therefore provides thermal insulation and a completely impermeable barrier to water, while offering excellent loadcarrying capacity for accessibility.
To complete the hat trick, the Minilay option provides the flexibility and freedom to transform any concrete substrate into a tiled wetroom floor. Marmox Minilay units are supplied with a choice of 705mm long stainless-steel linear grate or a 120 x 120mm stainless steel square grate.
Marmox hat trick at InstallerSHOW
With impressive sound properties, and a range of colours available it is an incredibly versatile range that can be found everywhere from hotels and offices to classrooms and retail environments.
The range has been named after the white sandy beaches of the Caribbean due to the finely sanded finish of the tile’s surface.
Aruba - a trusted ceiling tile for generations
Trusted by generations of architects and installers, Aruba is specified throughout the UK almost every single day.
The Aruba tile also reflects the vibrancy and colourful nature of the Caribbean, as it is available in 35 colours, the largest option of standard colours available on the UK market. For further design creativity, the Aruba family can be specified in alternative shapes such as the Aruba Triangle.
Additional tiles with enhanced performances are available within the Aruba family including Aruba hH, Aruba Max and Aruba dB, each bringing unique performance capabilities.
The Aruba tile is incredibly versatile, with a number of attributes that deliver a thorough solution.
Combining Class C sound absorption with a sound attenuation level of 34dB, the tile controls background noise levels whilst allowing sound to travel, creating an acoustically comfortable setting. It contains up to 44% recycled content, is 100% recyclable and is scratch resistant.
Zentia – Enquiry 74
‘The
Proctor Podcast’ launched to talk all things construction
The A. Proctor Group is moving into the world of podcasting with the launch of ‘The Proctor Podcast’.
Hosted by Managing Director Keira Proctor, and promising to discuss all things construction, episodes are available on all of the usual podcasting platforms.
Each one features a blend of information, inspiration and entertainment, keeping listeners abreast of the latest construction industry trends, innovations and insights.
Having already reached new audiences through webinars, online round table events and a successful YouTube channel, the company is now exploring the possibilities of the audio format.
“Podcast listening is a very personal experience, with people choosing when, where and how they listen,” said Keira Proctor. “As such, one of my aims with The Proctor Podcast is to help people get to know the A. Proctor Group better, with personal insights from our employees. “We want to explore the world of construction with our listeners, building knowledge and challenging opinion.”
The first episode of The Proctor Podcast delves into the world of modular construction with Will Jones (Head of Business Development) and Adam Salt (Business & Development Manager).
Subscribe to the podcast via our website: www.proctorgroup.com
A. Proctor Group – Enquiry
TRILUX launches Rail office lighting
TRILUX has introduced Rail, a gamechanging lighting system specifically crafted for the evolving post-pandemic workplace.
This innovative solution combines advanced technology with a sophisticated design, offering a unique blend of functionality and aesthetics. Rail is not just a lighting system, it's a statement of modernity and adaptability, designed to enhance wellness, neurodiversity, creativity, and productivity in your workspace. Rail offers a highly flexible basis for attractive and adaptive lighting concepts, including smart connectivity, making it an ideal choice for accentuating contemporary office settings. Its optimised design combines flexible power supply and control lines in a sleek aluminium profile.
TRILUX – Enquiry 76
Smartroof’s Smart PUC wins Housebuilder New Product Award
Smartroof is delighted to announce its SmartPUC system has been named Best Brand New Product at the Housebuilder Product Awards 2024.
Celebrating excellence in the provision of products and services to the housebuilding industry, the Housebuilder Product Awards are judged by experts with the Best Brand New Product being awarded to Smartroof for its SmartPUC system - an offsite manufactured prefabricated utility cupboard that can accommodate new electric technologies within unused loft spaces while providing additional loft storage to enhance practicality for homeowners. This innovative solution was recognised as one that helps housebuilders overcome the challenge of new building regulations, improve build quality, deliver cost and time savings, and is sustainable.
The impact of the Future Homes Standard in 2025 and new electric heating systems led to housebuilder Taylor Wimpey approaching Smartroof, one of its major suppliers. Together with its technical team who
Sto revitalises office building
Sto, in partnership with applicators Chiltern Contracts, have delivered a rendering project maximising performance and aesthetics for the refurbished multi-purpose Henry Wood House in central London.
Sto was selected to design a system which would not only repair the damaged façade but meet a specific design brief from Ben Adams Architects and building owners Derwent. A modern, linear render finish was needed to bring texture to the building render and provide a durable surface. The complexity of the installation saw Sto provide ongoing technical advice and support to the applicators throughout the project.
Sto – Enquiry 78
worked in collaboration with Taylor Wimpey’s Innovation team, and AES Sustainability consultants, the Smartroof team created an offsite manufactured, Prefabricated Utility Cupboard (PUC).
“In partnership with Smartroof, the development of the SmartPUC concept demonstrates a true collaborative approach between supplier and house builder to create an innovative solution for the house building industry!,” said Richard Kinloch, Taylor Wimpey’s Director of Research & Technical Information. “The introduction of SmartPUC systems redefines how loft spaces in U.K are designed, by utilising the ‘unused’ loft space to accommodate the additional technologies required within a home as we transition to the Future Homes Standards - With the potential to provide homeowners with additional free space to optimise storage and living space.” By moving new technologies such as heat pumps, hot water cylinders (up to 30%
larger than gas requirements), MHVR and solar PV inverters to the roof space, housebuilders can free-up valuable floor areas in new homes, maximising living space, particularly in the case of smaller plots.
Commenting on the award, Kevin Sherlock Managing Director at Smartroof said; “This is fantastic news and a huge achievement for everyone involved. This award is testament to the dedication and collaborative efforts of our team, and how cutting-edge solutions such as SmartPUC can shape the future of housebuilding.” Winners of the awards were invited to a celebratory lunch on 6th June in London and now automatically qualify as a finalist in the Product of the Year Category at the Housebuilder Awards 2024, which will be held on the 31st October.
Smartroof – Enquiry 77
Brett Martin has recently added a Flat Glass Access Hatch to its glass rooflight range, which enables the maximisation of daylight into interior spaces, whilst providing easy and safe access to roofs with a flat or gentle pitch.
Easy to install and operate, the doubleglazed hatch come fully assembled and ready to fit with a thermally isolated aluminium frame, PVC kerb and 24V tandem actuators. A 90% Argon filled cavity unit offers combined U-values as low as 1.72W/m2K.
A wind and rain sensor can also be specified to enable improved ventilation with minimal hassle. Plus, the glazing specification can be customised to provide solar control, tinting or obscured glazing should the customer require it.
As with all Brett Martin’s glass products, safety for those above and below the rooflight is assured thanks to a laminated inner pane and a toughened glass outer pane.
As a result, the hatch achieves a non-fragility rating to CWCT TN-67, depending on the size, and is Class B non-fragile to ACR[M]001 when new and installed according to the installation guidelines.
All Brett Martin glass rooflights come with ten-year warranty for added piece of mind.
Brett Martin – Enquiry 79
Brett Martin hatches a plan for easy flat roof access
Hunter Douglas Architectural unveils
Tavola Closed Baffles
Hunter Douglas Architectural has launched its latest creation: the Tavola™ Closed Baffle system.
A closed ceiling design that seamlessly combines the Tavola™ baffle and linear panel 150C, it creates a sophisticated aesthetic that surpasses traditional open baffle ceilings.
Ideal for those seeking efficiency, the closed ceiling construction means there is no need to finish the ceiling plenum, while the flat linear panel hides unpainted areas and conceals any services within the void.
The Tavola™ Closed Baffle system, part of Hunter Douglas Architectural’s Luxalon® brand, also delivers outstanding acoustic performance and both panels can be perforated and backed with acoustic non-woven tissue.
Both panels can be perforated and backed with acoustic non-woven tissue, achieving exceptional sound absorption and enhancing overall acoustical comfort.
The Tavola™ Closed Baffle system is ideal for environments where acoustic performance and aesthetics are paramount, including offices, public building entrances, lounges and retail areas. This latest innovation joins Hunter Douglas Architectural's popular range of metal baffles under the Luxalon® brand.
Riviera Home bespoke rugs and runners
Riviera Home has launched a bespoke rug service, bringing the exquisite quality of its handcrafted broadloom carpets to area rugs. For homeowners and interior designers looking to add unique style to interiors, Riviera Home has launched a bespoke rugs and runners programme that lets any of its hand-crafted, Wilton and tufted ranges, including outdoor-ready carpet styles, be enjoyed as an area rug or stair runner.
The perfect addition to home or garden, every rug brings the quality and beauty of Riviera Home. Customers are free to choose any of Riviera Home’s stock broadloom ranges, offering them an impressively flexible service.
From standard baffles to bespoke solutions engineered to exact specifications, Hunter Douglas Architectural remains at the forefront of architectural excellence.
Hunter Douglas – Enquiry 80
With the launch of the Parkside x Coco Lom British-made terrazzo tile collection, launches in sustainable tile choices, a packed programme of terrazzo making workshops and the famous Lockley’s Cocktail Lounge; this year’s Clerkenwell Design Week was one to remember.
For three days in May, Parkside Architectural Tiles opened the doors of its Sustainability and Design Studio to welcome in Clerkenwell Design Week. A collaboration with Hackney-based artist Coco Lom saw her take inspiration from the colourful Parkside x Coco Lom capsule collection of 100% British-made terrazzo, painting a live mural during the event.
Parkside – Enquiry 81
Sustainability-focused Mapei’s EPD’s total over 500
In-line with its commitment to sustainable construction, Mapei now has EPD (Environmental Product Declaration) certification for over 500 products throughout its range - spanning adhesives, admixtures, coatings, floor preparation products, grouts and surface care products.
The certification reflects Mapei’s commitment to whole life cycle sustainability, from raw materials, through manufacturing and packaging and reducing the amount of CO2 associated to the product itself.
All EPD products are included within Mapei’s Product Information Library; an online resource and specification tool which lists all certifications including TDS’, SDS’, DoP’s, GEV’s and more. Mapei calculates the impacts its products have on the environment using the standardised LCA (Life Cycle Assessment) method.
All Mapei solutions are specifically designed to reduce energy consumption and emissions of volatile organic compounds, promoting sustainable and quality construction. Mapei sustainable initiatives also include its Zero line of carbon offset products.
New products to join the Zero line for 2024 include Mapelastic Zero elastic cementitious waterproofing mortar, Mapelastic Guard Zero flexible cementitious waterproofing mortar, Keraquick S1 Zero cementitious tile adhesive, paint systems Silancolor Pittura Zero and Elastocolor Pittura Zero, and seven treatments from the UltraCare range of cleaning, protection and maintenance products.
Mapei – Enquiry 83
BIG – Enquiry 82
Parkside x Coco Lom at CDW 2024
Higher Design. Lower Energy.
Introducing Sovereign; energy efficient designer radiators.
Elevate your space with a stylish and modern heating solution that delivers on energy efficiency. Perfect for schools, colleges, universities, offices, care homes and other commercial settings. Make a statement or subtly enhance the design aesthetic with Sovereign designer radiators, the perfect balance of style and sustainability.
