Renovation Today nº 09 February 2015

“A technical magazine for the professional world of property renovation and remodelling”

DEKTON® BY COSENTINO SHINES ON TWO AMAZING PROJECTS

CEVISAMA 2015: SUSTAINABILITY, PRESENT IN ALL COLLECTIONS

REFORM OF BUTCHER’S SHOP IN GIRONA, AWARDED IN GERMANY

WHEN THE ARCHITECTURE BECOMES LUXURY THE LATEST INTERNATIONAL WORK OF A-CERO ARCHITECTURE STUDIO, AN INNOVATE INTERIOR DESIGN PROJECT IN A LUXURY HOTEL IN THAILAND

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PHOTO_ WWW.A-CERO.COM

#9

BY MOVISTAR

Similarly, it is also our style to put Dekton to the test.

We subject it to an unlimited demand, we challenge its performance, its technology and its unlimited design potential.

Create anything you could ever want with Dekton.

10 W

AR

YEARS

A Grand Slam tournament is won a er thousands of shots, it puts strength and character to the ultimate test.

COSENTINO PATROCINADOR OFICIAL

RAFA FFA NADAL ACADEMY

RAN

COLOUR AURA NATURAL Collection

DEKTON IS UNLIMITED.

RAFA NADAL

DEKTON. UNLIMITED. ULTRACOMPACT SURFACES

WWW.DEKTON.COM COSENTINO HEADQUARTERS: Ctra Baza a Huércal Overa, Km 59 / 04850 Cantoria - Almería (Spain) T: +34 950 444 175 / F: +34 950 444 226 / e-mail: info@cosentino.com / www.cosentino.com / www.dekton.com

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CONTENTS

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MANUEL GOZALBO

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DEKTON® Dekton by Cosentino shines on two amazing projects. (p.12-15).

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RENOVATION ‘Casa Balint’, by Fran Silvestre, an architecture in motion. (p. 26-31).

REFURBISHMENT The reform of butchery in Celrà, Girona, awarded in Germany. (pages 10-11).

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CEVISAMA 2015 Innovation, design and sustainability on Cevisama 2015. (pages 18-21).

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BIGMAT CONGRESS BigMat Group celebrates a international congress in Dublin. (pages 34-35).

“CEVISAMA 2015, A NEW STEP FORWARD” One year, we launched energetically give extensive coverage to all that happens in Cevisama 2015, one of the appointments in the sector which also this time we went with the enthusiasm of good memories of the previous edition. And so, after many years of resistance seems that this appointment may be the confirmation that everything begins to shift and that recovery is a reality which can be seen at the fair. Importantly, it is a great time of change at many levels and we are in a situation in which the wind blows for, because more and more aid to the reform sector and that makes us think that the recovery begins to be in many respects.

From this publication we continue to propose activities that will

seduce and, above all, to help you to get to your destination before. And that is why we have become a tool at your disposal, ready to utiliceis that for your benefit as it is essential to have effective partners in the sector.

We are convinced that the time to step forward and focus on making initiatives, events and exhibitions that are the beginning of a new era has arrived.

Also we remind you that you can keep sending us suggestions and ask any questions through our website and on social networks.

If you want to know more about us, check out our website: www.renovationtoday.com

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FOTO: ‘MUCA’ - DAVID FRUTOS.

ARCHITECTURE ‘Iniala Beach House’ (Thailand), a luxury hotel by A-cero studio. (pages 4-9).

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‘INIALA BEACH HOUSE’, LUXURY ARCHITECTURE

NEWS_REPORT We present the latest international project of A-cero architecture studio, an innovative interior design project in a luxury hotel in Thailand: ‘Iniala Beach Hose’ texts_R. D. / photos_WWW.A-CERO.COM

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ARCHITECTURE

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e present one of the latest international projects of the Architectural studio A-cero led by Joaquín Torres and Rafael Llamazares. This project is an Interior Design development in an unique and exclusive hotel in Thailand.

Located in the bucolic coast area of Natai Beach in Phuket, this place is characterized by its calm, the vast sands and the turquoise blue waters.

This little luxury hotel resort was conceived to enjoy your stay surrounded by good design.

The complex has 10 villas designed by different well-known international architects firms.

A GREAT PROJECT

The project developer entrusted to A-cero the Interior Design of two rooms of one of the villas, concretely the Villa Bianca. Moreover, A-cero developed the design of the restaurant of the hotel, Aziamendi (with 3 Michelin Stars) as well as the exterior chill out area where you can enjoy the amazing views.

A-cero have designed absolutely everything, even the furniture.

THE ROOMS

Both rooms designed by A-cero are on the seafront. Two shell shape bungalows sharing an exterior swimming pool. Both elements play with each other and we tried to achieve the opposite interior design between them. In the first room, the vertical lines flow introducing into the sight of the visitor.

In the second room the curved lines move horizontally embracing the space around. It is a game of vertical and horizontal lines that wrap the space. Looking for the “ying & yang” and different sensations for each other. The furniture of the rooms is born in each of the curved lines that create the rooms.

The natural local wood is used for the floors and the walls of the rooms, looking for a natural environment according to the exuberant surroundings. In each of these rooms we have changed the disposition of the elements to make them different. The first room has light wood horizontal sense floor and dark wood ceiling.

The second room is the opposite, with dark wood vertical sense floor and light wood ceiling. The exclusive A-cero design furniture for this hotel is made with high quality polycarbonate in order not to see any joint. The white colour is used to renovationtoday.com |

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PLANS: RESTAURANT

make easier the introduction of the light inside.

The curved lines described previously conform each unique furniture piece, obtaining a head bed sculpturally joined with the ceiling.

Moreover some of the lights for the room are included in the bed head.

The head bed becomes an exclusive A-cero design dressing table, characterized by its forms, which are similar to the rest of the room. This dressing table is also very versatile, it has different removable modules like mirror, drawers, magazine

PLANS: ROOM

ARCHITECTURE

rack, lockbox, fridge, coffee machine, speakers to connect different devices and several compartments that are deployed to use them and collected to keep everything tidy.

This dresser is a large area in con-

nection with the other bathroom departments: shower, bathtub, washbasin and toilet.

The luxury concept of this hotel includes important art pictures proposed by the owner and displayed

around the complex with the chance to buy them.

The wide windows fill practically all the main façade of the room and the guest overlooks to the outdoor landscape –the beach– through the

porch and the own swimming pool.

The wood pavement is continued to the porch.

This area is also equipped with A-cero design furniture, the “Rest” collection for Vondom.

ARCHITECTURE

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ARCHITECTURE The project developer and the owner of the hotel trust again in Spanish professionals.

For the restaurant they contacted with the recognized three Michelin stars chef Eneko Atxa, who has his local restaurant Azurmendi in Vizcaya, Spain.

Once the proposal was accepted, the chef got involve with the project to implement the kitchen and the menu of Aziamendi, the name of his restaurant in Iniala.

THE RESTAURANT

A-cero has designed this restaurant for the guests of the hotel. The restaurant with capacity for 70 diners also includes a bar and an area with big size tables. The restaurant installations are thought taking into account the kitchen requirements and the needs given by the Spanish chef Eneko Atxa.

The design of a restaurant has created a welcoming place. In continuation with the style of the rooms, the restaurant has been designed

AZIAMENDI RESTAURANT

with curved lines and natural materials. The fact that the restaurant is a glass box, allows the guests to view the surrounding landscape. The wood is used for the ceiling and the main walls. In this case we have designed different wood panels for the ceiling to simulate the movement of the waves.

With the intention to maximize the form of each wood panel, the floor has been designed with light wood and the ceiling with dark wood.

The tables of the restaurant have been designed exclusively by A-cero. The curved lines and the natural wood give identity to the space.

The tables have been designed for two guests, but thanks to its modular design, we can easily obtain the size requested for the tables.

The Platner chairs from Knoll, designed by Warren Platner in 1966 are the perfect complement. These chairs have been upholstered with light green velvet to integrate them with the local vegetation.

The exterior chill out designed

by A-cero complements the restaurant and the guests can enjoy an appetiser next to the sea. With sliding doors and A-cero design furniture you can enjoy the ocean views and the smell of the sea. The tables

have the same modular design of the restaurant, with Platner design high seats upholstered with waterproof leather. Once again A-cero design transcends borders and carry us to the incredible beaches in Phuket with this exclusive hotel._

RENOVATION

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THE REFORM OF BUTCHERY IN CELRÀ, GIRONA, AWARDED IN GERMANY The young architect Pau Sarquella Fàbregas, who conceived the reform of the Germans Soler Butchery almost like a work of archeology, receives the ‘Das erste Haus’ award from the prestigious magazine Bauwelt texts_ R. D. / P. S // photos_ J. GUILLAMAT

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he reform of the Germans Soler Butchery in Celrà in Girona (Catalunya), designed by the young architect Pau Sarquella, Das erste Haus receives the award for the best film awarded by the magazine Bauwelt every two years.

The young architect was awarded for his project and moved to Munich to collect the prize, awarded as part of the celebration of the BAU. To better understand the details of this project we move into the origins of it, as we have from his studio.

THE ORIGINS

In 2011 the sons of Herminia took over the running of the family butcher’s shop. Located on the road 66 in Celrà, it has remained hidden from passing travellers, with only the local habitants shopping there.

After years of hard work, the brothers decided to renovate their facilities to continue offering to their customers traditional meat and sausages.

The project develops through a commitment to the archaeological method: investigating the hidden patina of walls, excavating floors, unblocking windows, and rediscovering hidden vaults to return the space to its original form.

Once a Tabula Rasa is established, the interior volume is flooded with white: walls painted and surfaces clad in white-water tiles to provi-

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BEFORE

RENOVATION de subtle reflections and hygenicise the space with northern light. On the customers side, the furniture is made of pinewood to provide warmth and comfort, reminiscent of nordic traditions.

A dark strip turns into the side facade giving it the same importance of the frontal one. It becomes a mural or material collage, signing for customers available parking and a route through the grasses to get their groceries.

MAXIMUM SPACE

To ensure the maximum space possible for product display, the inbuilt furniture takes a central role in the architectural organization of the space. A series of glimpsed views in the entry and along a diagonal axis allows the customer to gradually discover the space, creating a promenade articulating and exhibiting the products.

The brilliant white of the space slips out of the showcase windows to the facade of Celra’s road. It wraps around the building creating a vibrant signage, ensuring that the Butchery will never again go unnoticed by a hurried driver.

THE ADVERTISEMENTS

The advertisements play with subtlety and collective imagination.

A single shy little pig on the wall is the banner and the emblem of the contents of the building. It recalls the silhouette of that wild animal from the southern wineries. A neon yellow sign activates the front facade, indicating from afar something unusual is happening along the Road 66 to Palamos. But, it is at night time, when the butcher sleeps and the front facade moves, that you will discover that they are the Soler brothers now who offer us the best cuts in the region._

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NEWS REPORT_ Dekton® chooses Sirius at the Heydar Aliyev airport in Azerbaijan, and Zenith and Keranium at the new restaurant ‘Dani García ‘in Marbella texts_R. D. / photos_COSENTINO

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INNOVATION AND DESIGN

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DEKTON® BY COSENTINO SHINES ON TWO AMAZING PROJECTS W

e are interested in the spectacular growth experienced by Dekton® by Cosentino, the new ultra-compact surface that shines more and more projects throughout the world that have successfully implemented Daniel Libeskind and Italo Rota, among other architects. Of the many projects we focus on those who have been held in Heydar Aliyev Airport in Baku (Azerbaijan) and the new restaurant Dani García, in Marbella.

First we talk about the spectacular work in Heydar Aliyev Airport.

Here are the details: THE DETAILS

Application: Exterior flooring.

Material: Dekton® by Cosentino.

Colour: Sirius (dark with slate finish). Thickness: 20mm. Quantity: 4,300m2. Tailor made: equilateral triangles of 1.5 metres each side.

From each Dekton slab, 3 triangles were produced.

THE MOST DECORATIVE ASPECT

The most decorative aspect of the project was with regard to its production -using a single materialof equilateral triangles measuring 1.5 metres on each side, and in three different colours, which when com-

bined achieve a 3D effect of raised cubes.

DEKTON ® COLOUR - ‘SIRIUS’

For this architecture and design project it was necessary to find a material that was produced in large pieces to be able to make this pattern of triangles, and that could in turn, thanks to its technical characteristics, be cut into the described pieces without breaking.

Due to its hardness and to the large slab format in which it is produced, Dekton® was the perfect material for the project.

Another fundamental and decisive aspect was the colour. It had to be a material in a solid, uniform colour with a natural look and slate finish, and which could also be made in two lighter coloured, but equally elegant shades with the same finish.

Dekton® Siriusdark coloured slate finish, allowed this idea to be further developed thanks to its mechanical and aesthetic properties, making it the perfect choice for the project.

The application of this particular design was for an exterior floor area, specifically for the main entrance of the airport. It was therefore important that the physical ap-

pearance of the product used should not alter over time when exposed to the sun and changes in temperature, nor to continuous foot traffic.

Dekton®, thanks to its ultra-compaction manufacturing process, provides unrivalled, superior technical characteristics.Its high resistance to ultraviolet rays; its good colour stability; its resistance to ice and thawing; its high resistance to hydrolysis; its high resistance to scratching, staining and abrasion; and its low water absorption rate, guarantee it as an excellent material for use in outdoor areas and places where thousands of people pass through each day.

Mainly, it offers safety. Safety, because thousands of people pass through places like these every day.

These places, given their high volume of foot traffic, must be able to rely on safe, resistant materials that do not suffer any wear and tear that could endanger the safety of pedestrians.

It also offers peace of mind to architecture and design professionals, as having a product that encompasses all the technical and mechanical characteristics found in Dekton®, enables them to offer their clients more functional, high-quality and long-lasting results. |

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INNOVATION AND DESIGN

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In addition to safety and technical quality, Dekton® allows professionals to create beautifully aesthetic designs to last forever, thanks to its great versatility regarding colours, textures and sizes. By using Dekton® ultra-compact surfaces, main entrances of airports, or any other interior or exterior spaces of this kind of buildings, can become veritable works of art.

NEW ‘DANI GARCÍA’

Details: Application: floor covering of entire restaurant. Material: Dekton® by Cosentino. Colour: Keranium (dark and industrial aspect).

Quantity: 333 m2 in large format slabs (320 cm x 144 cm). Application: worktops and tiling for the kitchen.

Material: Dekton® by Cosentino.

Colour: Zenith (white). Quantity: 154 m2.From the outset, the new Restaurante Dani García wanted to offer an open-plan concept so as not to create physical barriers between the heart of a restaurant, the kitchen and the area where the diners are located. In this way, the visual contact between the chefs and diners is constant and the latter can see at all times how the world of haute cuisine works. For this reason and according to Dani García, “the spectacular space where the kitchen is located should be the light of the premises, contrasting with colours renovationtoday.com |

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and elements located elsewhere in the restaurant.”

But this was not the only objective to be achieved at the start of the project, there was another fundamental aspect in addition to the open space concept..., that the new Restaurante Dani García would become a unique experience for anyone that crossed its threshold, making them feel like they are a star of a “fairy tale”. Therefore, fantasy and children’s décor should permeate every corner of the restaurant, combining fact and fiction in a place of dreams. The most decorative feature achieved in the new Dani García restaurant is the creation of a true fantasy and fairy tale setting, playing with the contrast of colours and materials used in the design. The kitchen, or “light” of the restaurant as defined by the chef from Malaga himself, illuminates the rest of the premises thanks to the impeccable white Zenith Dekton® by Cosentino. This white contrasts perfectly with green natural plants that adorn the walls and the dark colour of the industrial style floor covering that only the tone Keranium Dekton® by Cosentino can offer.

DEKTON®, COLOUR_ZENITH

From an operational point of view, Dekton® provides a number of unique technical features to the

INNOVATION AND DESIGN worktops and kitchen tiling of the stunning restaurant. Inside the kitchen itself, the worktop becomes the star ingredient because it is used to handle the food offered to customers on a daily basis. The safety and hygiene that Dekton® offers for contact with food was a determining factor in the choice for this project.

But there are many other features that make Dekton® the ideal material for this space where the daily usage is pretty intense; examples include its ability to withstand both cold and heat without changing aesthetically or mechanically and high resistance to stains and scratching.

The aesthetics of the material, with the pure white provided by Dekton® Zenith, was conclusive to choosing the colour of the product.

The kitchen must be the “light” of the restaurant and what better colour to achieve this objective than the spotless Zenith white. The feeling of spaciousness, cleanliness and purity that this material offers in this atmosphere is unbeatable.

DEKTON®, COLOUR_KERANIUM

The floor of a restaurant is an element that must withstand a lot of traffic of all kinds; therefore, the

applied material should bear this great problem so that over time it continues to look like brand new.

Thanks to the mechanical characteristics of Dekton® this problem is solved. Over time the material remains durable with minimum maintenance which results in simply cleaning it with a mop.

The possibility of applying large format slabs (320 cm x 144 cm) to the entire floor covering of the restaurant also attributed to an aspect of continuity, with minimal joints, providing greater visual beauty and elegance.

Also, with regards to the aesthetics, the colour Keranium by Dekton® with its dark industrial look made the desired initial design a reality, based on differentiating the bright white kitchen and other interior decoration.

THE ADVANTAGES

There are many advantages that make Dekton® ideal for use in hotels and in places with high traffic of people. Dekton® possesses, among other superior technical characteristics, a very low water absorption, stain resistance, scratch resistance and good performance in the heat.

Also it boasts aesthetic and design

as Dekton® can recreate any type of material with a high degree of quality. These characteristics, together with the availability of Dekton® in a large format, make it possible to adapt this material to the creativity and versatility of modern architecture.

Dekton® offers uncut surfaces and spaces, without limits and without interruptions, which can be applied in large format both indoors and outdoors spaces: bathrooms, kitchens, furniture, exterior walls, floors and pavements, swimming pools, gardens, etc._

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CERAMIC FUTURE TRENDS ARE IN CEVISAMA 2015 The event begins with hope after the success of last year and exhibits some collections focused on neutral luxury, beyond the wall, cartoon graphics, eclectic way, wild spirit and geometrical dreams

C

evisama, the great international event for interior design, architecture and decoration has finally arrived in 2015 that relies on good data exceed the previous edition and in a show that will become a platform and showcase of new trends ceramics.

Ceramic trends move between two very different but with common characteristics fronts; on the one hand emerging markets, each with its own cultural characteristics that force the industr y to adapt

the product; On the other hand, the traditional European and American markets, which demand more neutral and adapted to what happens in the field of interior products.

THE COLLECTIONS

The collections will be focused on neutral luxury, beyond the wall, cartoon graphics, eclectic way, wild spirit and geometrical dreams. Geometry, color, mixing and matching new tooling design are issues of great importance in the current scenario of ceramic trends, all influenced by new technologies already in place, such as ceramic printing, but also why they are coming, as 3D printing.

The future trends in ceramics is here in Cevisama 2015._

SCHLÜTER SYSTEMS: NOVELTIES AND A SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY The company will exhibit new, innovative solutions for the creative and reliable installation of ceramic tiles and natural stone. and as a special highlight, 2015 marks the fortieth anniversary of Schlüter®-Schiene

To celebrate this milestone of its “original,” Schlüter-Systems will present a new, high-quality variant of the classic profile made of stainless steel, Schlüter®-Schiene-es, with a patented joint spacer.

This unique feature, which has become a proven industry standard, precisely defines a joint chamber with the tile. Tile installers will now have the choice whether to use the elegant stainless steel profile with or without joint spacer. Another new addition to the “Technology and Design with Profiles” category is the versatile profile Schlüter®Schiene-Step-EB. This high-quality stainless steel profile can be used

for finishing the edges of ceramic countertops, stair steps or in “tile on tile” restoration projects. In its Illuminated Profile Technology product segment, the company will introduce a number of new developments for Schlüter®-Liprotec. Novelties range from an innovative and comfortable control based on an app with bluetooth receiver to new complete sets for creating wall panels, various aluminium profiles with elegant stainless steel finishes, and master/slave technology for the easy management of large light installations. Last, but not least, the company will also introduce Schlüter®-Liprotec-WSK, a profile with integrated conduit._

DITRA-HEAT-E

APP- LIPROTEC

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NOKEN LAUNCHES ITS NK CONCEPT

AZTECA: GLOSSY & METALLIC FINISHES

A complete bathroom solution and features aesthetically pleasing forms that convey a new sense of lightness

The firm presents a renovated stand where the star attractions are the state-of-the-art metallic glosses

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he new NK Concept series has an iconographic quality and becomes a new iconic symbol for Noken. Modern bathroom design demands that sanitary ware, brassware and storage solutions should work together to create an interconnected scheme.

NK Concept offers a complete bathroom solution and features aesthetically pleasing forms that convey a new sense of lightness.

THE NK CONCEPT BRASSWARE

The NK Concept brassware line focuses on a responsible lifestyle with a well-defined design for a deliberately ecological product range of mixer options for basin, bath and showering.

NK Concept boosts a wideranging offer with five basin mixer choices for deck-mount, floormount and concealed wall installation, bidet, a freestanding and deck-mounted bath mixer, exposed shower plus bath-shower mixer, and SmartBox Uno, Vario and Termo shower solutions combined with a shower Pack.

WELLNESS SHOWERS

The Lounge wellness showers are inspired by the highest concept of well-being.

Lounge showers stand for a multi-sensorial experience for a feeling of total relaxation and dedication to self-care. The remote

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control, that can be installed inside the shower, allows you to start your preferred wellness program with colour cycle or select your favourite colour tone. The energy of red, the purity of white, the serenity of green or the relaxation of yellow, all at the touch of a button.

The wellness programs are Energy, Relax, Balance and Sensation.

The concealed ceiling shower heads are capable of transforming your bathroom in a private wellness haven.

The Lounge shower system offers 3 different dimensions to suit divers shower designs and spaces; 40x40, 40x60 and 60x60cm including shower sensations such as raindrop, mist, waterfall, laminar jet and cromotherapy._

Azteca is once again present in the Cevisama trade fair with the intention of showing its customers and visitors a wide offer of products and services prepared exclusively for this event. With the construction of a stand of more than 480 m2, located on Level 3, Pavilion 2, Stand B-28, Azteca has prepared an offer similar to the one of recent years concerning exhibition space, but highly renovated in its structure and design, showing a strong commitment to the most cutting-edge decoration trends.

Glossy, metallic finishes, evoking luxury and modernity, take on special protagonism with the launch of the spectacular Smart Lux, Emotion and Magic series.

The suggestions in black and white, the reliefs and the lappato finishes of these collections of porcelain stoneware make it possible to create exclusive environments of high aesthetic value, which at Azteca are included under the trend known as “Metallic & Decorative”.

The new metallic series Navy, in the 30x90 and 60x60 formats, completes the offer in this trend, which occupies a preferential space along the stand of this fair.

In contrast, the other strong bid continues to be the finishes that come from inspiration in nature. Thus, suggestions are added to the trend “Natural Elements” such as the new Elite and Nordic series, also present with the dual aspects of cladding and flooring in the most successful Azteca formats (30x90, 31x75 and 60x60), and that complement the existing

offer with their cotto and petreo designs, respectively.

Special mention within this trend to the launch of two new offers in ceramic woods: the Aspen and Atlas Lux series, which serve as presentation of the new extra-long format of 20x120 porcelain stoneware. These collections become new alternatives to the woods already existing in the range, providing a bigger-than-usual size, with 20x120 cm boards, and in the case of the ASPEN, with a clearly novel and innovative design and finish.

The “Industrial & Minimal”, “New Traditional” and “Full Colors” trends complete the decoration offer of the brand for the fair.

The wide variety of collections within these state-of-the-art trends offers solutions in design and quality to the most demanding consumers in the world of decoration and the habitat.

DISNEY, BY AZTECA

The Disney characters present in the Azteca ceramic collections continue with their differentiated space in the value proposal offered by the brand. As in the previous edition, at the stand, preferential environments and uses are proposed for the wide range of ceramic components that form the Disney licence managed by Azteca.

The firm completes its offer with some of the brand’s bids: the combination of ceramic with other materials of the habitat and interior design, such as natural stone (Brick Soft series) and glass (Soul series); the new reliefs of cladding (Rorc, Strip and Trop) in the 31x75 and 30x90 formats, given the great reception by the market of the volume finishes, and last year’s main launches, Armony, Symphony and Cosmos, in different formats and finishes._

THESIZE PRESENTS ITS ‘NEOLITH 2015’

CEVICA: FEELINGS AND SENSATIONS

The pioneer architectural surface that provides solutions to the most demanding professionals

The firm launches in Cevisama this amazing range has been created in the Antic 7x15 format

perfectly with the previous four colors. Thus Neolith expands its color range with more than 40 different models inspired by marbles, textiles, metals, wood, natural and industrial elements and bright colors.

All these models are easily combined with other colors and decorative elements.

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or first time, TheSize will present in Spain the ‘Neolith New Products 2015’ at Cevisama (Level 3, Hall 4, Stand D-23) than include exquisite designs and stunning finishes as well as new formats.

NEWS DESIGNS

Neolith introduces two new models of Estatuario to its Classtone marble collection, and new designs as Calacatta or Travertino Clásico and Travertino Navona and Onyx.

To the Fusion collection, are added a range of neutral colors in grey and creams, as the Pietra di Luna, Pietra di Piombo and Pietra di Osso. Also, are introduced two black models: Nero Assoluto and Nero Zimbabwe.

To the Neolith Iron collection are added two new models, Iron Blue and Iron Ash. Two new eye-catching designs that contrast and complement

NEW FINISHES

Neolith increases its range of finishes available, offering a total of four finishes: Satin, a completely matte finish ideal for commercial applications; Silk, a finish that provides a subtle shine and a nice soft touch; Riverwashed, a finish with a rough texture and relief; Polished, a bright finish with a perfectly linear reflection that confers depth and elegance to the material thanks to the technology used and its unique process in the market, which brings a realism and depth innate in the polishing of the natural stone.

NEW FORMATS

New tile formats of 1,500 x 1,500 mm, 1,500 x 750 mm and 750 x 750 mm that surprises for its unusual dimensions for this product category, having fewer joints, which is translated into a more minimalist and modern look with a better hygiene aspect._

The Feelings & Sensations range has been created in the Antic 7,5x15 format and combines with the Antic, Antic Craquele and Antic Special series.

This new range is composed of two embossed designs and 4 different patterns in each design randomly mixed: Feelings, is the quiet and soft design that imitates lace in great

detail and creates authentic, fully renovated rooms.

Sensations, shows a design with more volume, with very dynamic geometric patterns, but without losing the artisan character. Both designs are offered in 14 colours that let see the depth of the relief.

CEVICA: N2 – P4 – STAND D38

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CIFRE, NATURAL TEXTURES AND NEW FORMATS The new collections keep natural textures and clear, pastel colours. Wall and floor tiles representing wood, stone, marble or cement now include new designs based on metals

New designs and formats for new markets will be the highlights of the novelties that Cifre Cerámica.

The company from Onda is launching new formats (25x80 cm, 75x75 com and 10x30 cm), especially designed for clients from Eastern European countries, a growing market for the company.

These new formats are now part of the catalogue, together with the large pieces that the company presents: 45x90 cm, 90x90 cm 120x60 cm or 120x20 cm, among others.

The new collections keep natural textures and clear, pastel colours. Wall and floor tiles representing wood, stone, marble or cement

MONTBLANC SERIES

MONTBLANC SERIES

now include new designs based on metals. The tiles that reproduce traditional ceramics in colours, shapes

and patterns, also become more important in this new catalogue. The novelties of Cifre Cerámica for 2015

also include wall tiles with subtle and elegant patterns, perfects for the new times._

MOSAVIT PRESENTS THEIR NEW SERIES PRINT The revolutionary Digital Print technology from the Spanish firm takes mosaic to new levels, limited only by your imagination

Mosavit arrives in the fair (Level 3, Pavilion 4, Stand A-16) with the new models in the series Print – launched in Cersaie with great success – allowing mosaic lovers to enjoy not only solid or iridescent colours, reliefs and mixes, but to enter into the world of digital printing on mosaic, developed by Mosavit.

As demonstrated previously by the company in their most recent collections, you can loose yourself in their “beautiful graphics designs with decorations such as the hydraulic Cement tiles, Baltimore or Toscana”, make a statement with the avant-garde Moma or Tate, renovationtoday.com |

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or be seduced by the original and fresh Patchwork collections.

ELEGANCE & VERSATILE

And for those who are looking to extend the simplicity of natural wood into the bathroom, the Forest collection offers “the elegance of this versatile, natural material without any of the inconveniences”.

Catering to the classic tastes, Mosavit introduces the Calacatta, Galatta and Travertino, or decorations such as the Savona or Jaipur.

Mosavit also lets you explore your creative side, offering personalized designs that meet any specification or request._

DEKTON PRESENTS 5 NEW COLOURS ®

© 2013 Anjasora Cno. foyes Ferraes s/n 12110 Castellón. l’Alcora t (+34) 964.36.71.24 f (+34) 964.36.35.48 www.anjasora.com anjasora@anjasora.com

The new ultra-compact surface by the Cosentino Group launches Aura, Edora, Irok, Kairos y Vegha, colours that highlight the beauty and purity of natural stone

Dekton® by Cosentino, the new ultra-compact surface by the Cosentino Group created for the world of architecture and design, launches five new colours that highlight the beauty and purity of natural stone.

In honour of the beauty that Nature has shared with us for millions of years, every creation of this new line encompasses unique design patterns with magnificent veining to evoke the most exquisite natural materials.

These new colours stand out for their delicate harmony and incomparable beauty.

These new references, called Aura, Edora, Irok, Kairos and Vegha, are added to Dekton® by Cosentino’s initial palette which was created at the start of 2013, and which was a revelation for the world of architecture and international design.

As their inspiration is drawn from nature, these five new colours have been integrated into Dekton®

by Cosentino’s Natural Collection.

With their addition, the Dekton® range now has 15 colours, divided into three different collections: Solid Collection, Natural Collection and Tech Collection._

BAÑOS, COCINAS, SALONES, FACHADAS, LOCALES COMERCIALES BATHROOM, KITCHEN, LIVING ROOM, FACADE, COMERCIAL PREMISES

KAIROS

A SECOND SKIN FOR YOUR HOME

AURA

facebook.com/Anjasora flickr.com/photos/anjasora anjasora.tumblr.com/ vimeo.com/35366640

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INTERMATEX GROUP, INSPIRING TRENDS

KROMA - SAPPHIRE

The company presents its novelties on the mosaic side, with digital printed designs and hexagonal proportions, and porcelain, with stony digital printing and large format

T

he novelties that Intermatex has developed this year for Cevisama fair (N3 P4 D24) are focused not only on the mosaic, but also on the porcelain. On the mosaic side, two basic trends define mosaic developments: digital printed designs on the one hand and hexagonal proportions on the other. Regarding the porcelain also two factors have independently influenced the new products: stony digital printing and large format (60x120).

MOSAIC

Four are the ranges that have been brought to light in this fair. On the hexagonal chips side we have on one hand Living, that gives us varie-

ty of applications (very adaptable to fit to curved surfaces and suitable for floor) with a similar looking to the successful Lagos range from de company. Six are the colors included in the range. On the other hand we have Tour (4 colours) in a larger hexagonal chip format, and as the name suggests, gives us a more urban style with inserts, printed in digital, of different popular cities.

On the other hand, in 5x5cms format we have Elements consisting of three subtle colours series, which is decorated with geometric textile inserts, which are seamlessly integrated into each of the three mosaics.

Finally, as a renovation and modernization proposal of the suc-

cessful Elegance range, replicated many times by competitors, the company launches Kroma. Three are, this time, the colors that include this range. The same metallic colours that, year after year, remain between the best and most representative items for the company.

PORCELAIN TILES

With regards to the porcelain, on one side we have Domus Bianco in 60x60, a super polished porcelain tile with a carrara stone desing very subtle and elegant with a light pattern that, with an immaculate purity in its ‘sanitary white’, provides an exquisite brightness. Furthermore the company, following the recommen-

ELEMENTS GREY SIDE VIEW

dations of its customers, launches its two most popular porcelain tiles Capri and Alaska in large size 60x120.

This way the company adapts to the type of customer that demands this format, with two very attractive and saleable alternatives._

ANJASORA: INNOVATION, ELEGANCE AND DESIGN The company presents its new large format ceramic, natural stone for ‘dress’ spaces, exquisite mosaics and natural stone flexible

The Anjasora’s proposal can be enjoyed another year in fair where the company presents its latest in large format ceramic (anjasoratile), natural stones to ‘dress’ your spaces (theStones), the most exquisite mosaics (theMosaic) and , of course, the longer it known Flexible natural stone (Flextone).

FLEXIBLE NATURAL STONE

The truth is that the flexible natural stone still delighting those who know the material and are increasingly prescribers recommending their use.

Not surprisingly, both for its high quality and its savings, has berenovationtoday.com |

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come its own right in the perfect ally for rehabilitation.

For those who do not know in detail the characteristics we remind you that Flextone is a sheet of slate of 1 to 2 mm. thick, coated from behind with fiberglass and polyester, which gives high strength and dimensional stability.

The flexible sheets of stone were first created in 1995 and after many years of research and development process has been perfected for a new series of products from sheets of flexible and natural stone.

Anjasora has made one piece, a sheet of natural stone and light flexible._

BUTECH SHOWS ITS NEW PROPOSAL The company offers solutions for construction professionals with products that bring new value to conventional systems

Butech presents their new collections. In this edition, focuses on solutions for construction professionals with products that bring new value to conventional solutions.

straight lines, I suitable for both Ston-ker and Par-ker.

PRO-DILATA

Butech extends the range of profiles for movement joints with a new type of gasket only 5mm wide.

PROFILE PRO-BALCONY

It is bottom profiles for ceramic flooring on terraces, balconies and other outdoor floorings. Protect parts and prevent water leaks, both floors and facades. It is designed to be used with Lamitech n, butech membrane for waterproofing and exterior desolidarisation.

PROFILE PRO-SHOWER

A new range of profiles for shower trays work. Designed to cover the sides of shower trays, is specially designed for showers with a single slope direction. There are also special parts for installation of glass partitions. These profiles are stainless steel and are available in two different finishes: gloss and brushed.

PRO-STEP W

It is a wooden trim profile for steps. With a modern finish in

MODULAR FAÇADE SYSTEM

The Butech modular system is an innovative lightweight construction cladding facades with large (as XLight of Urbatek), which by their speed of execution and its contribution to the energy efficiency of the building, make it a system that confers value to the finished product at a lower price to traditional construction.

Is system consists of two outer plates Panel SECUROCK, inner core composed of three layers of insulation 4 cm thick each and cladding plates superfine porcelain stoneware XLight 100 X 300 cm thus achieving the highest performance efficiency energy for its construction. It should also be inicar which is supported by a tubular steel structure which anchors the panel to the bulding structure._

PRO-BALCONY

Silvestre

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FILA LAUNCHES ITS NEW SOLUTIONS: FILASTOPDIRT & FILAPD15 The specialist floor cleaning and treatment presents in Cevisama an anti-dirt to protect the porcelain tile system with two specific products either for technical finish or lapatto

F

ila will be present in Cevisama with the unique system protection against dirt for porcelain stoneware with two specific products according to the type of (unpolished and lappato) finished system: FilaStop Dirt & FilaPD15.

The two products, which are already having a great sales success between the ceramic dealers are the result achieved through continuous investment in R & D and thanks to the vitality of the company that has always committed to innovation.

FILASTOP DIRT

FilaStop Dirt is the innovative specific product to protect against dirt natural and texture porcelain

tiles. Thanks to the micrometric technology, FilaStop Dirt creates an invisible barrier that prevents dirt accumulation.

comprehensive surface care resource - from advice on an ideal treatment, to a ‘coverage calculator.’

DOWNLOAD IT

FILAPD15

FilaPD15 is the innovative specific product to protect against dirt lappato porcelain tiles, that restoring sheen by increasing the material’s surface shine and makes ordinary manteinance easier.

APP FILASOLUTIONS

Fila will present at the exibition its ‘APP Fila Solutions’ in spanish language. Developed for trade professionals, retailers and customers, the easy-to-use ‘how to’ app provides a

It is available to download from http://bit.ly/FILA-app, Apple Store or Google Play, in British English, American English, Italian, German, Spanish and French, via smartphone and tablet.

The Fila app includes a several main function menus such as Treatment systems, to identifies the ideal Fila treatment for any surface; What to do if to identifies the best problem solution and Measuring device, to calculates the amount of product needed for each treatment._

FUSTECMA: HIGH QUALITY AND DESIGN IN TRADE ARCHITECTURE The company, which is present in Cevisama through different companies have entrusted the realization of his stand, again shows why it is a reference in the sector

Fustecma, firm specializing in comprehensive design and project has returned to make clear why it is a reference also in trade architecture, since the high quality of its work has led to such leading ceramic companies as Grespania, Ape, Vernís and Current ceramics, among others, will not entrust the performance of their new stand for Cevisama 2015.

casing products, has become all an event of the sector. Fustecma has developed the entire project from start through drawings and 3D views, studying the needs of Grespania, to implementation and final assembly.

With a wraparound style that dominates the rest white and light becomes the protagonist, has left its mark Fustecma high quality and innovative design in this great project.

GRESPANIA’S SHOWROOM

In this sense, taking the showroom of Grespania as evidence of the successful bid Fustecma, the truth is that the result is impressive because, with a size of 1,400 m2 of exclusive space dedicated to showrenovationtoday.com |

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HIGH QUALITY

In addition, Fustecma is a guarantee in manufacturing and high quality finishes for unique projects and designs and custom projects: showrooms and retail._

GRESPANIA’S STAND - BY FUSTECMA

PRÓXIMAS CITAS 2015

GRANADA LA CORUÑA BILBAO VALENCIA MURCIA

ZARAGOZA GIRONA IRÚN ALICANTE TENERIFE

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‘BALINT HOUSE’, BY FRAN SILVESTRE, AN ARCHITECTURE IN MOTION

NEWS_REPORT When an architecture studio like that of Fran Silvestre is presented with a material with the characteristics of Krion®, possibilities become infinite texts_R. D. / photos_DIEGO OPAZO

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»»

‘Casa Balint’ - Bétera, (Valencia). 1200,00 m2 (site area) & 772,00m2 (built area).

We do not find Krion® only in the ventilated facade created by Butech, a firm of the Porcelanosa Group, but also in the interior where we can appreciate bathroom countertops, shower trays, bathroom furniture, a dining table and the kitchen countertop made with Krion® by VF Superficies Sólidas.

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ARCHITECTURE

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T

his time we are going to talk about the ‘Balint House’ (Valencia), by Fran Silvestre Arquitectos.

When an architecture studio like that of Fran Silvestre is presented with a material with the characteristics of Krion®, possibilities become infinite; and this project in Bétera, Valencia, is a clear example of the boundless ingenuity of Fran Silvestre Arquitectos.

A privileged place within a golf course near to Valencia is the starting point of this project.

ELLIPTICAL TRACES

The proposal is drawn with elliptical traces which contain the program and maximize the possibilities of local urban law by minimizing the volumetric impact on the site.

Thus, a piece with a continuous façade that seems to lodge only one floor is set on the site.

The aerodynamic visuals of it guide the eye towards the deepness of the neighbouring landscape.

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ARCHITECTURE

»»

Through these images we can get an idea of how Fran Silvestre has ‘played’ with the elements, using elliptic curves and traces and letting the light conquer each area of each room with spectacular results.

dynamic ideas for a moving world

ARCHITECTURE

30 The volume is placed leaving as much free surface as possible towards the southern edge of the plot for it to be used as a garden, while the lateral limits are blurred with vegetation. The other elements that compose the urbanization resemble the curved nature of the place’s topography.

The inner space of the house is articulated through a central void which contains communications.

Service spaces, installations and the kitchen are used to orthogonalize the curved trace of the lower floor, which opens to the garden. The upper floor with the rooms and the underground, opened to the patio, provide the house with more bounded spaces.

Four concrete supports on the lower floor hold the arched roof, from which the room’s floor hangs.

This structure is covered with a monolithic ventilated facade made with Krion®, the Solid Surface from Porcelanosa Group, which with a simple curvature and without need for thermoforming adapts to the geometry of the piece. The rest of the materials range from white to black through all shades of grey.

We do not find Krion® only in the ventilated facade created by Butech, a firm of the Porcelanosa Group, but also in the interior where we can appreciate bathroom countertops, shower trays, bathroom furniture, a dining table and the kitchen countertop made with Krion® by VF Superficies Solidas. Other explanations can be superposed to this description, as the carpet of light which transforms the inside of the house as the hours go by.

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For more information: www.fransilvestrenavarro.com www.porcelanosa.com www.butech.es www.krion.es

ARCHITECTURE

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PROJECT TEAM Fran Silvestre | Principal in charge Fran Ayala | Architect Ángel Fito | Architect Adrián Mora | Architect Jordi Martínez | Architect Maria Masià | Architect STRUCTURAL ENGINEER David Gallardo | UPV BUILDING ENGINEER Carlos García

INTERIOR DESIGN ALFARO HOFMANN

PHOTOGRAPHY Diego Opazo ART DIRECTION Adrián Mora Maroto COLLABORATORS COMPANIES Krion | Porcelanosa Butech | Porcelanosa L’Antic Colonial | Porcelanosa Shüco | Dekovent

LOCATION Bétera, Valencia SITE AREA / BUILT AREA 1200,00 m2 / 772,00 m2

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RENOVATION - CONSTRUCTIVE SOLUTIONS

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A REFURBISHMENT IN MARSEILLE WITH VIEWS OF THE MEDITERRANEAN A remarkable and great projetc by the architect Herni Paret, who has optimized to maximize the natural light and the original space and has implemented Kawneer solutions, designer-maker specializing in architectural aluminum systems texts_ R.D. / photos_XABIER BOYMOND

W

e speak now of another interesting project, a refurbishment in Marseille, with unparalleled views of the Mediterranean Sea. This property which, after being refurbished with the installation of lifts glass enclosures, is optimized to maximize the natural light and the original space that had.

CONSTRUCTIVE SOLUTIONS

This has been the main goal of a remarkable project that has led the architect Henri Paret and for which it has relied on Kawneer solutions, designer-maker specializing in architectural aluminum systems.

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RENOVATION - CONSTRUCTIVE SOLUTIONS

33

The building in its original state, dating back to the 70s, lacked natural light despite being located in one of the brightest areas of the French town. Also had very few openings and trips abroad and distribution, with excessive compartmentalization of space, also prevented the

free movement of its inhabitants. To fix all this, and pursue this prfound renewal of both indoor and outdoor housing, Paret chose Kasting Kawneer sliding. Maintaining the same concrete structure existed, these were installed several large sliding rails that in addition to ensure high

technical and mechanical performance, ensure greater comfort and thermal efficiency and harmony with the design chosen for housing.

Sliding Kasting angled three and six sheets allow the maximum opening to the outside in the villa.

Another architectural oddities in this housing is installed on the roof structure. “As if it were an umbrella, makes this construction in an absolutely open and light architecture that seems suspended above his environment. Thanks to it have been able to eliminate certain load-bearing walls and columns to create maximum openings to the outside�, says the architect Paret

perfect element to integrate the garden and house with no visible divisions. This sliding door system offers a modern and discreet concealment with enhanced security, in which the leaf is integrated into the wall.

FULL PANORAMIC

Thus, the tenant can enjoy a full panoramic opening outwards, leaving the walls free hosting to the sheet you want.

What was once a closed, opaque housing has become a fully connected building with its surroundings, which reconciles with large openings and also stands out for its contemporary, elegant and minimalist design._

NO DIVISIONS

In houses, the sliding angle and integrated sliding shutters are the

www.henriparet-architecte.com

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SECTOR - NEWS

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BIGMAT GROUP CELEBRATES A CONGRESS IN DUBLIN The members of the BigMat Group and professionals from the construction materials distribution sector shared their experience through workshops and presentations in a international conference texts_ R. D

T

he BigMat Group International Conference was hosted in Dublin, with the theme “Listening to Our Environment, the Key to Developing Our Business”.

The key points discussed at this Irish conference include meeting client requirements, appropriately interacting with clients, focus on and awareness of the market and the competition and, finally, strategically integrating digital tools at points-ofsale.

WORKSHOPS

The members of the BigMat Group and professionals from the construction materials distribution sector shared their experience through workshops and presentations organised by Jean-Jacques Gressier and Thierry Spencer, of Académie du Service.

The highlights included a study of BigMat members’ clients on a European scale, enabling them to focus on their priorities and their implementation in the differentBigMat country markets.

»»BigMat International Congress.

Jesús Mª Prieto. BigMat Iberia.

Managing director

PRESENTATIONS

In the presentation entitled “What can we learn from our competitors?”, Jean-Jacques Gressier developed ten best practices regarding competition.

They include tips to encourage members to better showcase their points-of-sale.

Thierry Spencer’s speech on “What can we learn from other businesses?” focused on the importance of strong concepts at large brands’ points-of-sale in marketing terms; this focus is part of the Group’s DNA. Presentations by specialists, particularly Google representative Emmanuel Dollé, on “Comparing, preparing online purchases and visits”, were closely followed by participants in view of their importance.

DIGITAL WORLD

There were multiple opinions on the digital world and the practirenovationtoday.com |

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»»BigMat International Congress.

Claude Coutant. President.

SECTOR - NEWS cally inevitable use of Internet tools; the ensuing debate was open and interactive. A country-by-country focus clearly identified the group’s ongoing strategic development.

A GREAT OPPORTUNITY

Dublin was a great opportunity for everyone to speak their mind and make their own contributions, particularly during two round tables entitled: “Our differences and our strengths for promoting client relationships”. “In view of these trends and studies, what are the stakes for BigMat?” Regarding the Brand’s development, one important moment was the welcoming of Slovakia to the group and its presentation to the assembly.

ARCHITECTURE AWARD 2015

The conference ended with the presentation and launch of the second edition of the BigMat International Architecture Award 2015. The Awards will be presented at our next gathering in November 2015 in Berlin.

Finally, Claude Coutant, President of BigMat International, remin-

ded us that the conference is important for the federation and union of the group, and stressed: “We are convinced that we must make timely moves in the right direction in order to remain competitive. We must also be curious, be interested in our clients, our suppliers, our competitors, our collaborators, so that we may be the best.

And, finally, always remember that “we do not only sell materials, what we sell are solutions!”

ABOUT BIGMAT

The business of BigMat on the peninsula begins in 1997 and is distinguished by the plus value-added products and services aimed at both professional and private.

It consists of 190 members and 282 points of sale involving more than one million square meters of sales.

It is present in all the Autonomous Communities and Europe with centers in France, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Belgium, Italy and Portugal, with a total of more than eight hundred outlets in these five countries._

»»

in this file photo, ‘Elishout Kitchen Tower Campus COOVI’, Brussels, by Xaveer De Geyter Architects (XDGA), the International Architecture Award Bigmat 2013’s winner.

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SUSTAINABILITY

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THE GREEN HEALTH CITY PROPOSAL BY PETER RUGE Designed to support and promote the condition of physical and emotional human health, the project is an ecologically sustainable development located in China’s Hainan Province, in Boao Lecheng on the Wanquan River texts_ P. R. / photos_ P. RUGE

W

e show us the Green Health City proposal by Peter Ruge Architekten: an ecologically sustainable development located in China’s Hainan Province, in Boao Lecheng on the Wanquan River, as we read in archdaily.com.

By establishing a cross-disciplinary and inter-cultural approach to design that is routed in China’s long history, a comprehensive and well considered masterplan scheme is

achieved. More images and architects’ description after the break.

Five island districts bring together world-class medical facilities, employ new strategies for green energy production and rethink transportation networking to achieve a sustainable urban prototype. Pathways toward a sustainable future are forged through strong ties to local identity and respect for history.

MAIN CONCEPTS

A system of design is guided by concepts related to; 5 Elements – City of Creation; 5 Organs – City of Health; 5 Senses – City of Communication; 5 Islands – City of Relaxation; and 5 Rings – City of Individual Transport. Balance between these cycles and systems are applied to

create a harmonious planning arrangement, promoting positive energy flow within each of the island districts and throughout the development as a whole GREEN CITY

Sustainable urban design that prioritizes natural land use and planning strategies minimises energy consumption and reduces building footprints. 70% renewable energy production facilitated through the use of wind turbines, bio gas, photovoltaic cells, hydraulic systems and smart grid energy saving devices for the storing and distribution of power, will service this 100% Co2 neutral development.

HEALTH CITY

Environments that promote health include a combination of facilities that treat illness and assist wellbeing through a five star process involving diagnosis, cure, rehabilitation, rejuvenation, and prevention.

Check-up programmes with a special focus on geriatric care management and faculty’s specific to the development and application of stem renovationtoday.com |

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cell research form the nucleus of the development complex.

FUTURE CITY

Direct access to electro bus, ecar, bicycle hire services and a general circuit elevated magnetic railway network that use zero emission rechargeable battery operated power offers a variety of flexible and sustainable transportation options All private and fossil fuelled vehicles will remain outside the development complex, and a fully integrated transportation system provided.

INTERNATIONAL CITY

In co-operation with Charitè, the knowledge and expertise of more than 100 clinics and institutions worldwide will assure Green Health City a place at the international forefront of health care development.

This scheme pioneers new models for sustainable development in China’s healthcare market, sets a benchmark for the design of ecological cities and a standard for a healthy future, offering a gift from China to the World for keeping our blue planet healthy and green._

GREAT PROJECT

FRANK GEHRY HAS COMPLETED THE SYDNEY BUSINESS SCHOOL The prestigious architect, who is based in Los Angeles, designed the building to provide teaching, research and office accommodation for the UTS Business School, as part of £612 million overhaul of the university’s facilities texts_ D. G.

F

rank Gehry has completed his first building in Australia – the Dr Chau Chak Wing building at Sydney’s University of Technology, set to open in early 2015, as we read in architectureanddesign. com. The 85-year-old architect, who is based in Los Angeles, designed the building to provide teaching, research and office accommodation for the UTS Business School, as part of £612 million overhaul of the university’s facilities.

According to the University, Gehry’s team began by building a range of models for the faculty team to comment on and approve, and only when the University was happy with the internal layout and its associated learning experiences was the external skin designed and added on FLUID SHAPES

These fluid shapes appear similar to those of Frank Gehry’s previous buildings, like the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Guggenheim Bilbao, but here they have been created using 320,000 customdesigned bricks that had to be laid by hand. The architect told newspaper The Australian that the choice of materials was a response to the local context.

“I think when the university hired me they expected a shiny metal building,” he said. “I made some shiny metal models but they were things I had already sort of worked over and done. I just felt that it should be a material like in the neighbourhood. If I’d built it in metal it would have been fine too, but I think the metal would have cost more”, says.

The Canadian-born architect said he was inspired by the way that artists use folds to explore colour, form and shadow. “Because of the technology we’ve developed we were able to design something that was primitively made — handlaid brick — that could follow those kinds of forms and I’ve always wanted to do that with brick”._

»»Frank Gehry.

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NEWS FLASH New Atlanta Stadium with Retractable ‘Roof Petals’, by 360 Architecture A fly-through over the new Atlanta Falcons’ stadium has been released, revealing an unprecedented retractable roof designed by 360 Architecture (recently acquired

by HOK).

According to the stadium’s official website, the Pantheon-inspired stadium’s “eight unique roof petals” can rotate open in less than eight minutes, much like a “camera lens.” It will also be clad in a translucent ETFE fabric that, when closed, will allow natural light to pass into its interior.

The stadium, already under construction, will feature expandable seating (up to 83,000 seats), a 61,000 square-foot public plaza and the “100-Yard Bar.” It is expected to open in 2017.

GOOD DESIGN

EDIFICIO DE VIVIENDAS. MUSSONVILLE - FRANCIA