"special fittings"

SAS International bespoke metalwork comprising of a striking waveform shaped ceiling was designed by architects Arup Associates to feature in the construction of Ropemaker Place, London EC2 for British Land. Simon Anson, architect at Arup Associates comments; “The purpose of the ceiling was to provide the 10.5m tall entrance foyer with an acoustic performance, and create a lighting source providing both uplight and downlight. The illuminated ceiling provides the entrance foyer with visual impact from views of City Point Plaza, Ropemaker Street and The City.” Simon Anson continues, “The appearance of the ceiling is that of a series of illuminated vaulted waves flowing into the interior, the volume of the space perceptually expanded by the uplit waveform surfaces. The vaulted ceiling with its flowing contours provides a visually stunning focal point as well as a practical solution to the acoustic requirements of the interior of the building.” Specialist bespoke wave ceilings were installed in the atrium, main reception area, lift lobbies and main external canopy. The waveform panel, although elegant in appearance, had to have the required strength to support the light fitting. The extra weight posed a significant design challenge of how to integrate and support the light fitting into the waveform panel. The complex design required all fixings to be concealed, as a large proportion of the face and rear of the waveform tiles are visible. In the design development and installation of the system, Arup Associates worked closely with SAS International and the specified lighting manufacturer, Zumtobel, to ensure the panels integrated seamlessly with the luminaires to produce the optimum installation.

Part of a vast regeneration programme to improve student amenities, the UoB invested £60m in a state-of-the-art academic library. The project aimed to celebrate the wider campus architectural styles and improve access to new resources like e-journals and wireless charging stations. Associated Architects chose SAS International to provide the high acoustic and finishing touches to the academic interior fit-out. In order to create an effective library environment, acoustic performance must also be carefully considered. With the aim to create a space suited for thousands of scholars, bespoke acoustic metal wall panels were supplied to the library. Depending on the location of each tile, the panels were finished in white and black-grey PPC or anodised in regency gold. Specified with a 23% or 50% open area, the panels act as acoustic absorbers with an oblong perforation. Each panel is fitted with a black, fleece-wrapped acoustic pad for high performance. The architects specified three additional acoustic treatments for open soffit areas over computer clusters and lounge spaces. SAS500 baffles and bespoke ring shaped and circular rafts were created by SAS International to fulfil this requirement. The discs and raft-halos are an SAS150 hybrid designed to fulfil acoustic and service requirements while contributing to the contemporary look. Consisting of multiple panels, the concealed grid system creates a smooth finish enclosed using a steel perimeter trim. Long 3m baffles were also installed in a continuous sequence along walkways and group study areas. These options provide durable acoustic solution, minimising maintenance and improving access to the soffit and services.

The legendary Peninsula Hotel in the heart of Paris was undergoing a large renovation project and the project’s architect, who specialised in the restoration of exceptional establishments, decided on three Boon Edam Crystal Tourniket revolving doors and one Circleslide to fit their brief of installing a transparent and luxurious entrance. Built in 1908 to host the palace “Hotel Majestic”, this palace hotel was due for of an extensive renovation to offer modern facilities, standards and technology while still preserving its historic roots. The restoration took 4 years to complete and the end result is a five-star contemporary hotel which maintains and respects the spirit of the original institution. The project involved working with the finest artisans with an ancestral knowledge of this landmark building. The architectural renovation was led by AFFINE DESIGN, one of the major architecture and interior design offices in Paris

Acoustic SAS International metal ceiling systems were installed in the eight-storey Eqwater office building in Paris. SAS International’s SAS330 was installed throughout the office areas in the building. SAS330 is a lay-in metal ceiling tile system that provides functionality and outstanding acoustic performance for a range of cost-effective design options. The practical nature of its structure allows ease of construction and maintenance. The corridors of the building were fitted with SAS International’s SAS205. In some areas it is not possible to use a standard hanging bracket due to the number of services in the ceiling void, SAS205 is supported at the perimeters, up to a maximum width of 3000mm, making it a perfect solution for corridors. Metal offers an inert and inherently hard-wearing surface, making metal ceiling systems both hygienic and a low-maintenance option over the course of their lifespan. Only a simple cleaning routine is required. The lifespan of SAS International’s metal ceilings is in excess of 25 years with only very basic maintenance.

The brand new public amenties as part of the Diamond Creek Tram Project and larger Diamond Creek Regional Play Space incorporates a number of Britex’ Signature Vandal Resistant Stainless Steel fittings and fixtures. These include: •Britex S.S. Centurion Accessible Toilet Pan (PCD) supplied with Black Vandal Resistant Closed Front Toilet Seat (SVRC-B) •Britex S.S. Centurion Ambulant Toilet Pan (PCAM) supplied with Black Vandal Resistant Closed Front Toilet Seat (SVRC-B • Multiple Britex S.S. In Wall Cisterns with Raised Accessible Buttons (FIW-D453) •Multiple Britex S.S. In Wall Cisterns with Low Profile Standard Buttons (FIW-S453) •Britex Adjustable Straight Arm Backrest (BTX-BR-S) •Britex S.S. Accessible Hand Basin (HBDA) •Britex S.S. Security Hand Basin complete with Security Tapware •Britex S.S. Security Mirror 1000mm x 450mm (SMIR) •Multiple Britex S.S. 90 Degree Ambulant Grab Rails (BTR-01-058)

Imagine waking up in this 4-star luxury hotel with panoramic view of the IJ and the city of Amsterdam. Hotel Jakarta: a BREEAM Excellent certified energy-neutral hotel in Amsterdam. Designed with sustainability in mind. Unique for the Netherlands is the 30-meter-high timber structure of the hotel. All columns, ceilings and frames are made from natural, FSC or PEFC certified wood. The south and east façades are covered with 700 m2 of building-integrated solar energy panels (BIPV panels). The glass roof that covers the atrium also contains BIPV cells that, in addition to collecting energy, also function as sun blinds for the subtropical inner garden. The atrium is the center of the hotel and works as a temperature controller in both summer and winter. On each side of the building, rooms have their own covered outdoor space that functions as a structural awning. A custom made revolving door provides access to the hotel where there is a dynamic public area with various bars, restaurants, coffee corners and a wellness center. This transparent revolving door is almost 6 meters high and fits perfectly with the appearance of the facade. In addition, this type of entrance solution is in line with the sustainability requirements of the building.

The Roads & Maritime Services (RMS) now benefit from a highly progressive workspace in their newly refurbished head office on Parramatta Street. The main aim of the refurbishment project was to improve facilities and collaborative spaces for staff and visitors. However, a significant challenge for the contractors was to keep all existing communications rooms fully operational throughout the project. Achieving the Aim: SAS800 Trucell ceilings were installed in the open plan lounges and stairwells of the renovation. Creating a grid of squares, strong lines stretch the length and breadth of the collaborative space. The system gives a decorative feature to the fit-out with the illusion of a much larger space for activity-based working. Comfortable lounge furniture and bright colours have also been chosen to encourage communication and create a flexible working space. Meeting the Challenge: Specified with a lay-in exposed grid, each tile slots in place without the need for gaskets or cutting. With the building in constant use, installation was quick and easy keeping the project on schedule with minimal disruption. Popular in Australian CBD property markets, the refit considers occupant well-being with Grade A ‘end of trip’ facilities. An upgraded lobby area also contributes to the value-added space with an improved experience for employees and visitors alike.

When entering the new Segerstedthuset building at the Uppsala University in Sweden – guests, students and employees alike are cheerfully greeted by a colourful revolving door. This unique door is an art installation by renowned American artist Spencer Finch and is aptly named ‘The Colour Wheel’. The artist is best known for installations that visualise his experience of the nature of light, colour, memory. The Uppsala University is the oldest university research university in the Nordic area and this large facility is located in Uppsala, Sweden - educating 45000 students. The new Segerstedthuset building, designed by 3XN is a multi-purpose extension to the university and was conceptualised and constructed as a modern workplace for researchers, university administration and management. Boon Edam Sweden was approached to supply Spencer Finch with two Tourniket revolving doors. The doors measure a diameter of 3000 mm and a total height of 2400 mm and the 6 glass door panels provide the canvas for the light installation artist to work his magic on. Colour film is fitted between the glass which creates a truly remarkable and memorable entry experience into this urban, communal space. The Segerstedthuset building was built as a sustainable building and proved to meet high environmental standards such as efficient energy use, sound material choices and a silent indoor environment. The building is environmentally certified according to the Sweden Green Building Council at the silver level.

SAS International's bespoke waveform acoustic baffle ceiling solution was used as a feature in the new Skype Headquarters. An SAS International bespoke waveform acoustic baffle ceiling solution incorporating luminaires by Zumtobel, was specified by Walker and Martin Architects (WAM) for the new Skype Headquarters. Situated in Luxembourg, the new building forms part of the regeneration works to an existing brewery located in Clausen, the old quarter of Luxembourg City. The challenge set by the client was to provide an interior that would inspire innovation in the daily workplace of Skype employees whilst retaining an element of corporate sophistication. The solution helped create a dynamic and flexible office space. In the design, development and installation of the system, WAM worked closely with SAS International, to ensure the baffles integrated seamlessly with the luminaires to suit the ceiling and building shape. WAM designed the acoustic baffle ceiling solution with technical help from SAS International, then developed the layout to achieve the ‘wave’ and ‘fluid’ affect. Stuart Walker adds, “The ceiling design gives an uplifting ambience to the space, people ‘look up’ when they enter and immediately know they are in a space that challenges office convention with innovative thinking.” Another consideration that WAM took when selecting materials for the fit out process was the impact on the environment. SAS International metal ceilings have a lifespan in excess of 25 years with only very basic maintenance. These products withhold a residual value and can be recycled at end of life into new virgin steel or aluminium without any loss of properties; this ensures products do not end up in costly and unsustainable landfill sites.

The Farr Institute in Edinburgh is a collaboration between six Scottish Universities and the NHS National Services Scotland. They aim to place the country as a global leader in health informatics research whilst improving the health of the Scottish population. 30,000 sq. ft. has been fitted out to accommodate Bio Incubator laboratories and offices together with meeting, conference and dining facilities. The remainder of the building will accommodate laboratories and offices for life science research. SAS International’s acoustic baffles were specified to meet acoustic demand and make the most of the high ceilings and breathable space. The colours, baffle layout and service integration were carefully co-ordinated to the brief. SAS130 and SAS330 were specified and installed in the central core. Both systems offer quick and easy access to otherwise hidden mechanical and electrical systems. With SAS130, tiles can be lifted out to gain access to the ceiling void. SAS330’s hinge notch allows tiles to be hung vertically from C-Profiles, providing unobstructed access to the ceiling void. Ray Kwiecinski at Michael Laird Architects gave the below quote on working with SAS International; “MLA has specified a variety of SAS International’s lay-in grid ceiling systems over the years and we have always been extremely satisfied with the finished product. At the Farr Institute however, we decided to create a feature of the structural soffits and the M&E services and, by careful coordination of these services, the steel beams… [With] the SAS Baffle System and SAS Raft System 600, we were able to create an open, collaborative and exciting office environment whilst maintaining a high degree of sound absorbency. Our Client is delighted with the results as are we.” The Institute’s independent research will support innovation in the public sector, leading to advances in preventative medicine, improvements in NHS care and better development of commercial drugs and diagnostics.