Knotwood

We’re proud to see our Knotwood Dimensional Board in Nordic Oak specified on Channels Day Nursery in Chelmsford, a fantastic example of collaborative design delivering both aesthetic quality and commercial performance.Designed by Wincer Kievenaar and built by ROSE Builders LTD, the two-storey nursery combines thoughtful architectural detailing with a warm, welcoming material palette. Our wood look aluminium façade plays a key role in achieving that balance, bringing the natural appearance of timber together with the strength and reliability of aluminium.For educational and commercial projects, performance matters just as much as appearance. Knotwood’s aluminium system offers:Fire-resistant properties suitable for commercial applicationsA non-combustible aluminium substrateLong-term durability with minimal maintenanceUV stability and resistance to weatheringThe result is a façade solution that supports great design while meeting the practical and regulatory demands of modern building standards.

Nestled on the rugged Cornish coast, this recently completed project in Mawgan Porth exemplifies how thoughtful design, material choice, and location-driven specification come together to create something truly special. Our team at Knotwood had the opportunity to visit the site in person and see the final build first-hand, a striking example of modern design meeting practical performance in a challenging coastal environment.While on site, our team also met with local photographer Adj Brown, who was there to capture the finished structure. His work, featured throughout this article, beautifully illustrates the unique character of the building and the seamless integration of our aluminium systems across the architectural envelope.This project stands out for several key reasons, first, its exposed coastal location. Nestled on the headland above the shoreline, the building demanded a material that could withstand the harsh conditions of sea air and unpredictable weather. Knotwood’s aluminium cladding was the ideal choice as it is non-corrosive, rust-resistant, and engineered to perform without the upkeep of timber.Our 100mm and 150mm cladding boards in Black Wenge were used across both the façade and roof, highlighting the system’s adaptability and cohesion. This continuity between surfaces creates a strong architectural language, while the rich timber-look finish adds depth without compromising durability.Designed by Studio 10 Architects and brought to life by Terry Harris & Sons, this home stands as a testament to innovation in harsh coastal environments and reflects the growing appetite for high-performance materials that meet the demands of contemporary design. For architects working in exposed or environmentally sensitive locations, Knotwood offers a robust yet elegant solution, supporting both aesthetic ambition and long-term performance.

Knotwood aluminium cladding installed on this modular constrction project for Cambridge NHS trust. 700m2 of mixed width cladding and solar shading solution for the windows. This project was originally specified in timber but changed to Knotwood's aluminium profiles due to the need for an A2-s1-d0 fire rating and structural compliance of CWCT testing. Grey Ash was chosen as the wood effect which is part of Knotwood's weathered finishes range. RAL 2000 Yellow Orange was chosen for the east elevation entrance which really makes it stand out.

Knotwood's interlocking cladding testing: CWCT (Centre for Window & Cladding Technology) Standard Test Methods for Building Envelopes determine the level of serviceability of a façade or rain-screen cladding system when subjected to typical climactic levels of water, air and solid object impact.Knotwood also offers the following benefits:✅ 100% all aluminium systems which are non combustible and compliant with high rise buildings ✅ Powder coating warranty of 15 years ✅ T6 marine grade aluminium which which is corrosion resistant ✅ Interpon, AkzoNobel architectural grade powder coatings

As part of the refurbishment at One Brighton, the existing timber cladding and balustrade slats were replaced with fire-rated aluminium systems in Natural Oak. The aim was to retain the warmth of timber while improving durability, fire compliance, and long-term maintenance performance.Products150mm Cladding Boards – installed to the façade100mm Flip Battens – fitted to the balustradesThe new aluminium cladding and battens replicate the look of natural oak while offering a low-maintenance, weather-resistant solution suited to a commercial environment. The result is a refreshed exterior that enhances safety, longevity, and visual appeal.Colour: Natural OakPhotographer: Avocamera