"central controls building management systems"

Meadows Business Park is undergoing a major repositioning, providing modern working for a post covid-19 world. With 3 refurbished buildings positioned in landscaped grounds, providing workspaces, offices, central café, gym, cycle storage and showers. Located next to Blackwater Railway station, tenants of Meadows Business Park can enjoy pop up shops, street food markets, walks around the 100 acre shepherds meadow and even Peloton bikes, as well as a range of classes in the gym.As part of the refurbishment of these buildings, we worked alongside OD Interiors to manufacture and install the lockers and bench seating for the cycle storage and shower areas. As part of the project, we provided 22 wet specification Laminate Z Lockers for the male changing rooms, 22 wet specification Laminate Z Lockers for the female changing rooms and bench seating for both changing areas and the cycle storeroom.The stunning Laminate Z Lockers were manufactured with an aluminium body, stainless steel door frame and Abet Laminate doors. The colours chosen were Mountain Oak and Ice White from Abet’s range of laminate colours. We work with a variety of suppliers of laminate, allowing us to offer a large selection of colours and finishes, from carbon-neutral options, wood effect styles, through to bright pops of colour.In each changing room, 13 of the 22 Z Lockers were fitted with seat stands, with the remaining 9 lockers fitted to stands. The frames for the stands and seat stands are powder coated in RAL colour white, with the seat slats in Mountain Oak laminate to match the locker doors. To keep the project slick and uniform, the end panels, infills and the cladding to hide the stands are in the Ice White laminate, also matching the doors.The locks chosen for the project were the Digilock Versa Keypad locks. These are a great choice for both assigned, or shared use, and so were perfect for the shared changing rooms at Meadow Business Centre. Plus, they look great as a contrasting matt black colour against the light doors of the Z Lockers.It was great to work alongside OD Interiors again on this project and look forward to some more exciting projects in the future.If you are looking for Z Lockers, or have a similar project you need help with. Our sales team can help. Give us a call on 01284 530427 or click here to get a quote.

Originally opened in 1863 and voted 'Best UK National Treasure' at National Geographic Traveller Magazine Reader Awards, the Grade 1 listed, iconic British landmark, The Temperate House at Kew, reopened in 2018 after a major five-year, £41 million restoration. Comprising five pavilions and showcasing over 10,000 new plants from all over the globe, this glass cathedral is the world’s largest Victorian glasshouse, protecting the often rare and tender plants throughout the UK’s cold winters. Commissioned in 2017 by renowned architects Donald Insall Associates - heritage and historic building specialists - and working with ISG, the global construction and engineering company, Britannia designed and manufactured 146 bespoke cast iron floor grilles - a total of 73 linear meters - to house part of the vast new sunken trench heating system. The original inadequate and inefficient heating, ventilation, and irrigation systems were no longer in adequate condition or sufficient for the purpose, and a new biomass underfloor heating system was added to produce ambient temperatures for the plants without impacting the integrity of the building. The finished bare metal design CGA03, meticulously created by our highly experienced pattern makers, echoes the original traditional Victorian grilles found elsewhere within the glasshouse complex and has since become Britannia’s signature grille. We are exceptionally proud to have been chosen and trusted to complete this award-winning project and are equally proud of our teams to produce it – from design, to manufacture, to installation.Frequently referred to as Cathedral, Ecclesiastical, or Victorian decorative floor grilles and as seen here, often placed over channels holding heating pipes, they provide a practical and decorative heating vent. Originally designed for churches they are increasingly popular in private houses, greenhouses, and commercial building developments. Our grilles can be ordered in cast iron or cast aluminium and finished in a wide variety of options.We also work in association with Gunning Heating, making decorative cast iron grilles that fit seamlessly into their underfloor trench heater units.  See our website for a full list of our grille designs and finishes or contact us to discuss your bespoke requirements.

The Park Hill Estate in Sheffield was built as a council estate between 1957 and 1961. It was designed by Jack Lynn and Ivor Smith in a brutalist architectural style and has always divided opinions.Described as revolutionary for its time, the concept was `Streets in the Sky` with wide deck areas and distinctive concrete frame.  Whilst demolition of the site was being considered, in 1998 the estate was listed by English Heritage and given Grade II* status which was considered very controversial and attracted much criticism.  It is the largest listed building in Europe and, with its protected status, it was decided to renovate and redevelop the site as a joint venture between Urban Splash and English Heritage.The future of the scheme was to develop the site into desirable upmarket apartments, business units and social housing and the success has been widely publicised, including features in almost all architectural and concrete magazines, with a shortlisting for the 2013 RIBA Stirling Prize & 2023 RIBA Yorkshire awards, as well as winners of the AJ Retrofit Awards 2023.The key involvement for KEIM Mineral Paints was renovation of the extensive concrete frame. The discoloured concrete gave a drab and dirty look to the building – not the desirable, upmarket effect that the designers were looking for. The first consideration was to paint the frame in its entirety but this would have led to the loss of what is considered to be the most iconic feature of the building. So the challenge was to renovate the frame, improve the colour and finish without creating a painted effect.The answer was to use KEIM Concretal Lasur. This innovative paint system is a colourwash or stain which is applied onto concrete to cover blemishes and enhance the appearance, whilst, most importantly, keeping the look of natural concrete. KEIM Concretal Lasur has all of the features integral to KEIM Mineral Paints such as a permanent and highly protective chemical bond, complete UV stability and resistance to mould and fungal growth.KEIM Concretal Lasur is diluted with a complementary product using differing ratios and opacities to achieve the required colour and coverage, whilst still enabling surfaces to look like unpainted concrete. The system can also be employed to minimise any unsightly repairs to concrete. The versatility of the system allows almost complete coverage of repairs, or slight coverage, if preferred, which enhances the natural look of the concrete but gives the effect of a more visually appealing finish.

d² Dura Grating Mini Mesh, Dura Profile & Dura Platform 40 | Case StudyDura Composites was engaged by Premier Marinas to work with their engineering company to produce a composite floor structure around their travel hoist supported by large 305mm GRP Dura Profile beams between 6-10m in length. The team chose the GRP material over steel due to its superior performance in corrosive salt-water environments. Unique in the market, Dura Profiles exceed the higher performance E23 grade requirement of the BS EN 13706 standard.Also central to the efficient operation of the washdown and hoist are Dura Grating and Dura Platform 40 flooring made from moulded and pultruded high-performance GRP panels which are unique in design to Dura. The open mesh section utilises 55mm d2 Dura Grating Mini Mesh in dark grey, which facilitates drainage whilst maintaining strength and unrivalled anti-slip properties. The solid surface sections were created using patented d2 Dura Platform 40, which are crankable to create an in-built fall to aid water runoff.

Project DetailProject: Motel One – ManchesterLocation: Manchester Piccadilly, UKProduct: TS.9000 range of architectural closers for main reception and TS.3000 range of contract closers for apartmentsProject Description“Manchester has got everything except a beach,” said Ian Brown, lead singer of The Stone Roses. The city in the northwest of England is known as a party and music capital. Bands such as Oasis, The Smiths or The Chemical Brothers have their roots here. However, if you want to experience all the different aspects of this diverse city it would be best if you booked a longer stay at your cheap and centrally located Motel One Design Hotel in Manchester.Brand new and built in a very tight but friendly spot the Motel came as no surprise requiring a couple of door closers for its Hotel and resting overnight stay accommodation. The TS 9205 were chosen for heavily used entrance area and the TS 3204 were chosen for their bedroom doors because:They are supported by an established companyHave excellent right up and guaranteesVery easy and fast to fit and adjust making them the perfect answer for the contractor and door manufacturer.

Nestled in the heart of Central London, Chelsea Creek stands as an epitome of luxury, offering residents a uniquely European style of living along its canalside homes. The residential development boasts a stunning location characterized by tree-lined avenues and meandering waterways, providing an exquisite urban lifestyle.In our collaboration with Chelsea Creek, our focus was on enhancing both safety and aesthetics within the residential spaces. A key component of this project was the installation of metal riser doors tailored to meet the project’s exacting standards for both functionality and aesthetics. Designed to seamlessly integrate with the sophisticated surroundings, these fire-rated riser doors ensure compliance with safety standards while preserving the high-end residential atmosphere.The choice of metal riser doors not only aligns with the upscale environment of Chelsea Creek but also serves a crucial functional purpose. Ensuring fire safety without compromising on the luxurious aesthetics of the development, these doors exemplify our commitment to delivering solutions that prioritize both form and function. Crafted for both durability and visual appeal, these fire-rated doors not only ensure safety compliance but also contribute to the overall sophisticated aesthetic of Chelsea Creek.

Eastbourne station is located in East Sussex. It was originally built in the 19th century and is classified as a Grade II listed building. Over the years, the station has undergone several renovations and upgrades.Back in October 2020 it was announced £5 million would be spent on restoring Eastbourne Railway Station to its ‘former glory’. Work done includes canopy refurbishment, slate roof replacement, masonry work to the front of the station, and new roofing above the atrium.Twinfix were approached to replace the glazing panels on the 32 lanterns on the station’s train shed with something hard wearing, sustainable and modern but without losing the period look. The change was needed because, according to the plans, the existing fixtures were ‘life expired and inefficient’.Twinfix supplied their Multi-Link-Panel Non-Fragile (NF) roof glazing system, glazed with 6mm solid obscure polycarbonate. The new glazing spanned 1243 square metres and was installed by Gable, on behalf of Main Contractor BAM Nuttall.The Multi-Link-Panel NF system is an innovative roof glazing product that has been well utilised for many years on station canopy roofs, and it has been thoroughly tried and tested in that time.It was the chosen system for this project for a number of reasons:sustainability– these panels are virtually unbreakable in manufacture, transit and in situ, meaning that, unlike glass, maintenance costs will be eliminated. The system is also completely recycleable.safety– Twinfix Multi-Link-Panel NF (Non-Fragile) conforms to the HSE recommended test method ACR[M]001:2019 (as outlined in document HSG33) and achieves a ‘B’ Classification.off-site construction– The panels are pre-assembled in Twinfix’s factory ensuring strict quality guidelines are adhered to, which is not always guaranteed when roofing products are assembled on site.ease of access– The Multi-Link-Panel NF system can be fitted with In-Line Access Hatches, to allow cleaning of gutters and roof. These hatches are hardly visible and allow safe access through the glazing without needing to get on the roof.weight– The Multi-Link-Panel NF is light in weight and due to its modular format, it is very quick to install which allows for short rail possession works. A slight redesign of the original roof allowed 96 access hatches to be installed, making maintenance easier. Installed it’s almost impossible to detect the modern materials that have been used to bring this historic structure back to life.During the renovation work, Shaun King, Sussex route director for Network Rail, said, “The quality of work on site is being completed to a very high standard and we’re taking great care to restore the Grade II listed building to its former glory.”

Eastbourne station is located in East Sussex. It was originally built in the 19th century and is classified as a Grade II listed building. Over the years, the station has undergone several renovations and upgrades.Back in October 2020 it was announced £5 million would be spent on restoring Eastbourne Railway Station to its ‘former glory’. Work done includes canopy refurbishment, slate roof replacement, masonry work to the front of the station, and new roofing above the atrium.Twinfix were approached to replace the glazing panels on the 32 lanterns on the station’s train shed with something hard wearing, sustainable and modern but without losing the period look. The change was needed because, according to the plans, the existing fixtures were ‘life expired and inefficient’.Twinfix supplied their Multi-Link-Panel Non-Fragile (NF) roof glazing system, glazed with 6mm solid obscure polycarbonate. The new glazing spanned 1243 square metres and was installed by Gable, on behalf of Main Contractor BAM Nuttall.The Multi-Link-Panel NF system is an innovative roof glazing product that has been well utilised for many years on station canopy roofs, and it has been thoroughly tried and tested in that time.It was the chosen system for this project for a number of reasons:sustainability– these panels are virtually unbreakable in manufacture, transit and in situ, meaning that, unlike glass, maintenance costs will be eliminated. The system is also completely recycleable.safety– Twinfix Multi-Link-Panel NF (Non-Fragile) conforms to the HSE recommended test method ACR[M]001:2019 (as outlined in document HSG33) and achieves a ‘B’ Classification.off-site construction– The panels are pre-assembled in Twinfix’s factory ensuring strict quality guidelines are adhered to, which is not always guaranteed when roofing products are assembled on site.ease of access– The Multi-Link-Panel NF system can be fitted with In-Line Access Hatches, to allow cleaning of gutters and roof. These hatches are hardly visible and allow safe access through the glazing without needing to get on the roof.weight– The Multi-Link-Panel NF is light in weight and due to its modular format, it is very quick to install which allows for short rail possession works. A slight redesign of the original roof allowed 96 access hatches to be installed, making maintenance easier. Installed it’s almost impossible to detect the modern materials that have been used to bring this historic structure back to life.During the renovation work, Shaun King, Sussex route director for Network Rail, said, “The quality of work on site is being completed to a very high standard and we’re taking great care to restore the Grade II listed building to its former glory.”

Expanding care options with fit-for-purpose solutionsAltro Wood, Altro Serenade, Altro Aquarius, Altro Stronghold 30IssueFounded in 1995, The Glen is part of the Willow Valley Communities network that offers ageing residents a mind, body and spirit approach to wellness. The Glen provides a range of support services including shortterm rehabilitation from surgery or illness, as well as specialised memory care for individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other cognitive disorders. The facility needed updating to allow residents to continue to enjoy the comforts of home while promoting their physical and mental wellbeing.ApproachTo continue its mission of designing programmes and places fit to people, Willow Valley enlisted CCS Building Group to manage The Glen expansion project, which began in 2018. CCS collaborated with their Altro representative, knowing Willow Valley’s history of using Altro products during previous renovations with proven success.SolutionThroughout its completion, The Glen project utilised multiple Altro floors. For resident rooms accommodating those receiving skilled care, CCS chose Altro Wood for its warm, domestic aesthetic. In the facility’s communal areas, Altro Serenade provides 19dB sound reduction to reduce excess noise. Altro Stronghold 30 was used in the facility’s kitchens for its superb slip resistance and comfort underfoot for busy staff. For residents’ bathrooms and shower areas, CCS selected Altro Aquarius specialist safety flooring for its high slip resistance value both in shoes or barefoot.

Jamie Graham, Operations Manager, StonehengeThe new visitors’ centre at Stonehenge opened in December 2013. It was designed to deal with the increased footfall that we have experienced here, as a result of which we’ve had to open the new Groups Welcome Centre and in that we have installed URIMAT waterless urinals, in addition to the ones that we have at the regular visitors’ centre. These were installed in October 2017. Waterless urinals by URIMAT were specified by the architect as part of the building programme.Here at Stonehenge we’re not connected to any mains water supply so we need to extract water from a borehole, so we need to limit the use of freshwater on site in terms of maintaining our commitment to the environment – URIMAT’s waterless urinals really do help with that process.All of our waste water is treated here at Stonehenge before being tankered away. In terms of the load on the sewage processing plants that we have here on site, the URIMAT waterless urinals really are key to ensuring that that load is reduced.So when we were specifying the groups welcome centre that we have here we were looking at technology that we had already implemented, technology that works well for us, so that’s why we made the decision to install them in the new groups welcome centre.On a busy day during the summer period we can see round about 9,000 or more visitors on site so it’s really important that the technology copes with that amount of footfall, and since installation we’ve had no problems whatsoever.

Challenge:Driven by a respect for the environment, Heritage Homes wanted to create energy efficient homes for the future. A high sustainable build standard was required as part of their prestigious ‘Future Collection’ homes for the phase two zero carbon homes development.Solution:IG’s Hi-therm+ lintels use a patented combination of a polymer isolator and galvanised steel to bond the internal and external walls together by spanning the intervening gap creating a powerful thermal break. The one-piece lintel solution accommodated different lengths to minimise and conserve energy for each home by reducing thermal bridging at non-repeating junctions. IG’s technical team determined the loading and specification requirements at window and door openings. This fabric first approach contributed to an AA* energy efficiency rating and ensured each home built was comfortable, energy efficient and modern for years to come.IG’s LP windposts accommodated different lengths and factored into account wind load conditions. The windposts were installed into the inner skin of the cavity walls spanning vertically between the floor structures, providing additional lateral support for the large panels of brickwork and openings. All windposts included top and base place connections for fixing to the structure along with ties.Testimonial:“At Holland Park our homes are built with an AA* energy efficieny rating. IG’s Hi-therm+ lintels provided a fabric first approach to improve the thermal performance of our homes by reducing thermal bridging at non-repeating junctions”.Guy OlliverCommercial and Technical Manager at Heritage Homes

A Manchester based passive fire protection specialist has utilised products from the range of FIREFLY – including the versatile Phoenix Smoke & Flame barriers – to achieve the compartmentation of concealed spaces within the new Macclesfield manufacturing facility of a world-leading pharmaceutical giant.Firetech UK Ltd. is a key sub-contractor to DES for the construction of the extensive new laboratories and production plant for AstraZeneca, part of the FTSE 100 company’s continuing investment at its East Cheshire site for the distribution of drugs to markets around the world. Firetech was established more than 25 years ago and makes extensive use of FIREFLY  flexible fire barriers for its work on both commercial and domestic contracts. In the case of the Macclesfield project, Firetech purchased the FIREFLY  products via national distributor, Encon.  The Contracts Manager for Firetech UK on the Macclesfield Project, Josh Dodds comments: “We work nationwide though predominantly in the North-West of the country and have been using FIREFLY  products for the past five years, including here on this very large new plant.  Early on in the contract we installed a large quantity of Titan Lite™ 120:60 fire barriers in the ‘Amenities Area’ of the building and then when we were tasked with installing a series of smoke and flame barriers in the ceiling voids over the laboratories, we proposed the Phoenix product as being the most cost-effective solution. The work consumed approximately 540 square metres of the Phoenix to create a series of vertical barriers valued at some £50K.  Although we were able to employ standard details for the installation of the Phoenix barriers  and the Collaroll which wraps some of the beams and other features, FIREFLY has been involved from the earliest stages, providing general guidance and carrying out inspections.  The project has gone very well.”FIREFLY Phoenix is a lightweight smoke and flame barrier which facilitates compartmentation within buildings to provide up to 120 minutes’ integrity under BS476 Parts 20 & 22.  Certified by IFCC, the flexible and straightforward to install material is suitable for both new-build and retrofit situations.  Manufactured from woven and non-woven glass, the FIREFLY range is designed to optimise resistance to flame and smoke as well as offer heat protection in a wide range of scenarios. The flexible barriers are easy to install horizontally or vertically using a full selection of ancillary products.  Used mainly in the construction industry across the UK and Europe, FIREFLY fire barriers help to contain fire, giving building occupants extra time to evacuate and the fire service to enter safely.Images shown are taken during installation and some sections of the installation might be incomplete.

Nerrols is a primary and nursery school which is part of the Richard Huish Trust located in Taunton. Opened in September 2019, Nerrols includes facilities such as 14 classrooms, main hall, kitchen, science and technology room, sports hall library, food technology room and a 3G sports pitch. Built to support a new residential development being constructed, the two-story building school provides 420 places for 4 to 11 year olds and 26 nursery places, with modern colour render above, and features a generous canopy over the main entrance.Cellecta’s Mojave S1-8 was specified due to it being a lightweight option for an acoustic composite floor build up. This system has a low energy use, reducing running costs and co2 emissions, which benefits the environment.Willmott Dixon was awarded this 1,000m² contract by Somerset County Council to construct this development in Somerset.

PROJECT OVERVIEWThe Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts was designed by Foster & Partners and commissioned by main contractor Kier Eastern. The brief was to replace 30-year-old partitioning with a system capable of fitting in with a visually aesthetic solution which was in-keeping with the existing architectural style.OUR SCOPE OF WORKThe demands of supplying architectural partitioning solutions within a visual arts centre environment meant that only the highest standards of design and functionality would be acceptable. From the start of the design phase, we worked in partnership with Norman Foster and Kier to create unique modular steel and glass partitions throughout the building. Bespoke doors provided the ultimate finish. Our approach was to ensure that functionality and aesthetics worked together to deliver consistency and innovation throughout the building. Attention to detail was paramount to the success of installing bespoke partitions within the creative surroundings of the Centre. 

Retrofit RefurbishmentGastronomy Restaurants UK contacted us in 2023 as they were about to start a refit programme of KFC restaurants across the country. Stores had small, recessed matwells, but the open-construction Entrance Mats were filled with dirt and greasy food spills. They had become unsafe and unfit for purpose. With KFC's new strategic focus on quality and carbon reduction, they wanted a cost-effective, sustainable retail Entrance Matting product. It needed to cope with heavy footfall in a greasy environment and be easy to clean daily. INTRAlink2 is the ideal system for heavy, multi-directional traffic, with the wide fibre insert squares in INTRAlux Elite for maximum absorption. The team at INTRAsystems supported at every stage, providing expert insight, including test data and real-life case studies from other nationwide retail customers. Fixing Old, Small & Unsafe MatsWith limited space and an average of only 3-4m2 recessed Entrance Matting, KFC was struggling to limit slip incidents in wet weather. Cooking oil, which is in the air and cooking areas, settles around the store and is ultimately soaked up by the Entrance Mats. In addition, bits of spilled food and drink were getting stuck in drainage channels. This was limiting the performance of the small, recessed mats and providing little to no absorption or protection from the rain. Food technicians do most of the cleaning at the end of service, so the mats needed to be easy to clean with simple hoovering and brushing. A deeper clean every few months would then help ensure longevity. Heavy-Duty and High-PerformanceINTRAlink2 is a modular tile offering high durability and cost-effectiveness for retail entrance matting. The high-performance, 100% recycled PVC system has outstanding sustainability. And importantly, its closed construction keeps dirt and debris sitting on the surface instead of falling into drainage channels. So, it's much easier to vacuum and spot clean daily. With a cost-effective PVC structure, it's quick and easy to cut to shape than install, as each tile clicks into the next. Available with a choice of three fibre insert ranges with multiple colourways, it will enhance any retail interior. Gastronomy Restaurants chose INTRAlux Elite Anthracity 607 to match the new grey floor tiles being fitted, and complementing the 'more inviting...rustic, farmhouse décor' used in the refurbished KFC stores. Preventing Slips with Recycled Ocean PlasticsINTRAlux Elite is a high-density pile made from Econyl - 100% recycled nylon created from recovered ocean and landfill plastics. The fibre's density and coarseness deliver excellent moisture absorption and can cope with heavy and consistent traffic. Plus, it boasts impressive fire resistance and sound absorption. Green credentials abound with the fact that INTRAlink2 is manufactured from 100% recycled PVC. Being more sustainable in this way doesn't mean a compromise in quality. We're so confident in the product's hard-wearing performance, it comes with a 5-year warranty. "A Superior Product"Following successful trial installations by Jephsons Shopfitters at New Milton and Lichfield restaurant refurbishments, they have now confirmed the INTRAlink2 specification for the national brand rollout across 40 stores.“We’re going to be using your lovely matting on all the new builds and store refurbs from now on. It’s early days and we’ll see how it looks in 3 years, but it definitely seems a far superior product to the old system.”Facilities Manager, Gastronomy Restaurants. Gastronomy join the ranks of other satisfied retail customers with INTRAlink2, such as Waitrose, The Howard Centre and Co-Op. With a wide range of products to meet the retail challenge, high stock levels, short lead times and efficient installation, we’re the supplier of choice for this demanding sector.

“We have used products from CMS Danskin Acoustics on a variety of projects and always found them a good company to work with and very helpful to deal with,” said Gerry Winter, Allied Acoustics.The Council’s room was designed for holding meetings, training sessions and information days; but the acoustics in the room were distracting and the internal reverberation meant that hearing people speaking was difficult. CMS Danskin Acoustics engaged with the architect at East Renfrewshire Council to agree on the best solution without compromising on aesthetics, and ensuring they could offer the best value.The SolutionFollowing an on-site consultation at the Council with an external acoustician, CMS Danskin Acoustics was brought on-board to supply 25 SuperPhon® Acoustic Rafts; which are specially designed to reduce reverberation times and to improve listening environments. In addition, the tiles are available in a range of attractive colours meaning that the aesthetics of an internal building are not lost, which was of high importance to the Council. “The SuperPhon® Acoustic Rafts were chosen because they fitted with the style of the building, the need to retain the exposed roof structure and the fact that the fabric colour choice provided a less commercial ‘office feel’ to the final installation,” said Andrew Eaddy, East Renfrewshire Council.The ResultsFollowing the installation, CMS Danskin Acoustics carried out some calculations to evaluate how successful the Acoustic Rafts were performing. The team found that they had managed to bring the reverberation time down from 1.8 seconds to 0.8 seconds, ensuring a much-improved sound quality to the room for its multi-purpose activities.“The client was very happy with the end product at Rouken Glen and there was a substantial sound reduction after the panels were installed,” continued Gerry. “Overall we were very pleased with the results and the chosen product. The ease and speed of the installation, thanks to the bespoke fitting, meant that it wasn’t long before we were able to use the communal room again. We’re really pleased with the finish too, it’s exactly what we had in mind for the space,” concluded Andrew.

If any company knows about good investments, it’s multinational investment and financial services firm, Morgan Stanley, who made the shrewd decision to switch to more cost-effective hand dryers from the summer of 2022.Units Supplied: 15 to date, with plans to supply moreKey Benefits: Energy efficient, cheap to run and good looksRated Power: 0.8kW - 1.65kW | 2.67 - 4.58 Wh per dryProjectThe UK branch of the international firm, with offices in London and Glasgow, was previously using the Dyson AB14, until its buildings managers crunched the numbers and realised there were many cost savings to be achieved by moving to more energy-efficient hand dryers.SolutionMorgan Stanley’s workplace solutions provider, CBRE, approached one of our electrical wholesaler partners, Edmundon’s Electrical, to source the perfect hand dryers. We worked closely with the wholesaler to help them arrive at the ideal solution – the Dryflow Steelforce Hand Dryer. This popular, hands-in dryer, designed for high-traffic areas, can provide 1,875 dries per just £1 of electricity, whilst offering reliability and certainty… in the washroom at least.The Dryflow SteelforceWith famously fast dry times, this dryer is made for busy, fast-paced environments where time is money. It even features a guiding light to help the user maximise the powerful airflow for optimum efficiency.Its sleek, stainless steel lines allow it to fit in the most prestigious of washrooms, and it can certainly give the Dyson Airblade AB14 a run for its money, both in looks and performance that would normally be associated with a much more expensive dryer.The design team behind the Dryflow Steelforce Hand Dryer have created a unit with second-to-none efficiency that’s cheap to run, great value to purchase, and is built to last. It comes with market-leading guarantees and a robust build that will keep it running and running, with limited need for maintenance.

Knolly’s House, a residential block of flats in London, required refurbishment works to the internal communal walkways and concrete stairwells as the existing waterproofing had reached the end of its serviceable life. The waterproofing needed to be fast cure as the communal balconies were the only access to the flats. Therefore, Proteus Waterproofing specified Pro-BW® Plus system.High Performance WaterproofingAs constant access was required by the residents, a fast cure waterproofing system was vital. Pro-BW® Plus was selected as it can be fully installed in three stages, each only taking forty-five minutes to cure before allowing foot traffic. Pro-Aggregate EM was incorporated for a slip resistant finish. Proteus Waterproofing worked closely with the Proteus Approved Contractor to ensure the project was completed to a high standard, including an aesthetically pleasing finish.Health and SafetyTo minimise disruption to residents, particularly on communal walkways which may also form the fire escape routes, the waterproofing system needed to be fast cure. Proteus Waterproofing’s liquid applied systems are cold installed and therefore remove the risk of fire to the building. The low noise application also allowed the Proteus Approved Contractor to complete the works safely.Long Term PerformancePro-BW® Plus is a high performance, rapid curing protective waterproofing membrane for balconies and walkways making it ideal for refurbishment where structural movement has occurred. Pro-BW® Plus reduces installation time from days to hours. Suitable for a variety of external applications, Pro-BW® Plus can be installed on concrete & asphalt for communal and private balconies, walkways, staircases and pedestrian ramps. As it is a cold applied installation, the system meets health and safety criteria by minimising risk to both operatives and members of the public. Pro-BW® Plus is BBA Certified and manufactured in the UK.

BackgroundWe were contacted by a well-known gym franchise who specialise in functional training, which is a mixture of circuit and HIIT style workouts orientated around everyday movements. This style of training includes a variety of activities (e.g. Slam Balls) which can cause substantial vibrations and airborne sound to transfer through the floor, which can in turn affect the neighbouring properties.They required an acoustic gym flooring system that would reduce the overall environmental impact and noise pollution associated with these types of gyms, the owners of the property had some acoustic tests carried out by an independent acoustic consultant who specified the level of acoustic requirements.We put forward a range of our MuteMat® Gym systems, to be tested against various competitors. From these tests, we understood which of the systems would perform to the required impact reduction as specified by the acoustic consultants. We continued by providing the client with a range of quotations for the appropriate MuteMat® Gym acoustic flooring systems.Supply and InstalliKoustic was selected to supply and install the MuteMat® Gym 15-B68 system as we could offer a high-performing solution with a short lead time for a fully installed system at a very competitive price. This system consists of our MuteMat® Gym 15 as a top layer which has a dual density make-up with a base layer (B68) consisting of two layers of MuteMat® USP 625-17 and one layer of MuteMat® Gym B34. MuteMat® Gym systems provide unrivalled acoustic performance due to its multi-composite layers of various densities, thicknesses and material types – going to impressive lengths to reduce a wide range of impact noise issues that cause significant concern for gyms, areas that include cross-fit activities, heavy free-weight areas and stack.This project was over 148m2 of our MuteMat® Gym 15-B68 system which consists of 13.86 recycledtyres per m2  resulting in the entire project preventing over 2051 tyres from going to landfill.Acoustics in GymsDue to our ever-growing urban population, there are more and more urban or boutique gyms being constructed in commercial buildings that share their space with neighbouring properties, businesses and/or companies. Unfortunately, the environmental impact of untreated gyms can result in severe noise pollution in the surrounding areas. Fortunately, we have a wide range of acoustic gym systems and products that can dramatically reduce the acoustic issues associated with urban gyms.If you are interested in talking through a project that requires acoustic gym flooring or some of our acoustic gym products, please give us a call.

The structureThis residential property emerged from the ashes of a World War II bomb site formerly occupied by a coach house, and was constructed circa 1945 by a local postman to serve as a family home.The distinctive characteristicsSurrounded by grand white stucco houses, this property was a joyful oddity amongst the archetypal street. With an off-centre pitch, horizonal windows and a central door, the owner was keen to work with and improve the existing fabric. The renovation The property had been re-built under a new centred pitched roof extending across two storeys to the rear. Stepping down at ground floor to a deep brick-finned façade opening onto a protected and peaceful walled garden.At the front, the old and new bricks were sewn together under a coat of bagged lime wash and mineral paint and insulated internally. The rendered base speaks to its stuccoed neighbours and grounds the building; the subtle depth of the relief creates a play of light across the front facade in the evening sun, celebrating its distinctive character.Why KEIM?The owner had been aware of the unique properties of mineral paints for allowing bricks to be painted but crucially to breathe, understanding so often houses are painted with non-breathable paints and the suffocated bricks lead to condensation. A mineral paint was required that can be painted over brickwork as well as the rendered base.The owner reached out and arranged a site visit with James Best, Senior Sales Executive at KEIM Mineral Paints. Following his expert guidance, it was recommended to utilize KEIM Soldalit for the project. Samples of five distinct shades of white were provided for testing across various façade orientations and times of day. The owner ultimately selected KEIM Soldalit in colour 9870, commenting “It is the perfect white. It is warm without being yellow and looks great in direct sunlight, shadow and of course our many overcast days.”

THE PROJECTNine Elms Point is a private residential development in the heart of one of London’s most exciting new districts. The project is located just minutes from the new development at Battersea Power Station, a short tube ride to Oxford Circus and next to the planned Nine Elms tube station.The Nine Elms Point development features a collection of 645 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments and penthouses that have been spread across seven distinctive buildings.It is yet another high profile site that UK market leaders The Safety Letterbox Company have been delighted to be involved in.THE PRODUCTThe project features a large mail room that is used by both mail delivery personnel, property staff and residents to both post and retrieve mail. Mailboxes have been both recessed into the exterior walls of the room and used as freestanding islands with back-to-back mailboxes to maximise the available space.The freestanding mailboxes were supplied with modified table supports to allow for later fitting of wood cladding to product a high-quality finish of the central islands.Detailed drawings were supplied to the client to show the exact layout and dimensions of each of the mailbox banks so that the development team could prepare the location for the products. Once the mailboxes and support tables had been manufactured, the specialist Installation Team at The Safety Letterbox Company transported and installed the mailboxes into the project, using their CSCS carded install team.The mailbox used for the project was specified after the initial project enquiry which stated the available space and how many mailboxes were required. The COM 2 (194) mailbox features a height of 194mm which was the ideal product for this project, selected from a vast range of quality SLB products to choose from.The mailboxes used in this project are finished in a polyester powder coated Satin Silver (RAL 9006) colour. Each mailbox is individually engraved with numbering that corresponds to the address of each resident.

Leading UK utility contractor, Telent, have used UltraCrete’s superb ironwork installation materials to repair and install a CW1 access cover in Sutton Coldfield.BackgroundAs part of their ongoing commitment to maintaining the UK’s national utility infrastructure, Telent have used UltraCrete’s latest product innovation Mortar Buoy® to repair a chamber and install a CW1 ironwork access cover in the West Midlands.The ChallengeLocated on a busy junction, it was crucial that the repair and installation of the CW1 cover was carried out quickly to minimise disruption to motorists. With a reputation drawing on decades of experience in the design, build, support and management of the UK’s critical infrastructure, it was imperative that Telent used reputable installation materials that had been tried, tested and proven to work in the road network.The SolutionUltraCrete’s independently tested and approved ironwork installation system was specified by BT Openreach to complete the project.The new CW1 cover was installed using the Install Plus method. To begin, Mortar Buoy® was inflated in the existing chamber to prevent debris falling into the cavity and causing potential damage to the network. Once inflated, the team were able to use Mortar Buoy® as internal shuttering and repair the damaged chamber using QC10 F rapid strength flowable concrete.QC10 F, part of UltraCrete’s range of high specification concretes, is rapid setting fibre modified concrete for backfilling around manhole frames and gullies and for surface repairs.To complete the installation, Mortar Buoy® was used as a dam and Envirobed® CD534 Flowable was poured around the edges of a chamber for a permanent installation.Specially formulated for utility reinstatements, Envirobed® CD534 Flowable high performance bedding mortar is BT LN550 and LN320 compliant and offers superior compressive, tensile and flexural strengths in just 3 hours.Mortar Buoy® is a ground-breaking, innovative, inflatable access frame that acts as a dam, allowing for a flowable mortar ironwork installation in seconds – revolutionising traditional methods.Enhance your specification and upgrade your reinstatement with UltraCrete Mortar Buoy®.ResultsThe project took place on a mild winter day in December 2021. The work was completed without delay and with minimal disruption. Using Mortar Buoy® instead of a traditional damming mortar increased the speed of the installation, reduced costs and made the install less labour intensive for the team.On the performance of Mortar Buoy®, John Doherty, Area Supervisor for Telent commented: “Mortar Buoy® makes life much easier versus traditional shuttering for both chamber repair and bedding the ironwork. It is also much faster.”

Architect: Faulkner Browns ArchitectsInstaller: Topfix InteriorsProduct: ‘Shiluvit’ by Oranit1000m2 of PEFC Certified Shiluvit panels from Oranit were installed to the ceilings of the swimming pool and gym areas at the new sports facility St John’s School in Leatherhead.Faulkner Brown Architects specified Yellow Pine panels with a white stain for the space, choosing 7-502 modules with 22mm wide by 45mm deep blades with 40mm gaps for impressive acoustic control.Oranit is a specialist ceiling solutions suitable for most installation areas. As standard it is impregnated for Euroclass B,s2-d0 for resistance to fire, achieving top results against surface spread of flames, smoke production, and flaming droplets or structural integrity in case of fire.Additionally for this installation the panels were lacquered for humidity resistance, this treatment provides additional protection to the wood against water damage and can also be used for panels being installed outside.

Ascent Rooflight Covers were specified by Eurosafe Solutions as part of a Safe Access strategy to allow maintenance personnel to frequently access the roof areas to undertake Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) works at an office / warehousing premises in Orgreave, Sheffield. The Ascent Rooflight covers are a freestanding unit that sits above the potential fall hazard of the glazed rooflight. Formed from an angular aluminium framework with mesh infill the rooflight covers do not overly restrict light penetrating the rooflight. The Rooflight covers are supported on small spreader plates which provide a non-penetrative support solution on the flat felt roof. The Ascent Rooflight covers are testing in accordance with ACR(M) 001:2014 Test for Non-fragility of Large Element Roofing Assemblies (fifth element) and manufactured following 1090 factory production control procedures allowing CE/UKCA marking as required with all Safety critical components as per the Construction Product regulations 2022  

Turning a roofscape into a power station just got better. The combination of GreenCoat PLX with integrated, almost invisible solar functions to deliver green energy and good looks. The solar modules are bonded directly onto the metal roof within the controls of a factory environment at Metal Solutions Ltd, Bolton. Lightweight and maintenance free with no access requirements for cleaning the solution is a real game changer. Each module is 358mm wide and sits between the Snaplock® standing seam profile. In harmony with GreenCoat Mountain Grey the solar modules are virtually invisible from the street. A traditional Glass Crystalline module would add substantial weight, wind sheer load on the standing seam fixings and require access for bi-annual cleaning with the then risk of damage during that process.The thin, flexible solar modules do not detract from the design of the house and offer an excellent yield even in low light conditions.

T & B Contractors Ltd. had been contracted to build a state of the art extension and refurbish a number of existing areas at Capel Manor Primary School in Enfield, Middlesex. Part of the extension included a free standing canopy that would create solar energy for the school and protect the children playing underneath. Colm O’Boyle at T & B Contractors invited us to quote for a timber solar canopy that would sit adjacent to the year 2 classroom that was being revamped. They wanted a system that would let the light through as well as providing solar energy.

Shortlisted for the 2020 Architect of the Year Awards organised by Design Build; this internal refurbishment met the Breeam excellent status which we are very happy contributor. John Robertson Architects specified the Laudescher LINEA 4.2.4 which was superbly installed by CIM ltd on behalf of ISG London. Specified and installed by CIM ltd was our Laudescher Linea 4.2.4 (absorption class B, NRC 0.9) in Oak with a Varnished finish. Using the Laudescher system in various areas within the office area will contribute in keeping an area clam whilst ensuring good effective communication.

Integrating over two thousand employees from across Dublin into one location, Microsofts new offices take on a human-centric form. Covering 33,000 sq m of floor space the new development connects employees from over seventy two different nationalities. Using both Aluprof MB-SR50N capped curtain wall and MB-SR50N EFEKT capless curtain wall systems the project achieves the architectural performance and aesthetics desired. Providing the building users with exceptional natural daylight. Architect: RKD Architects Main Contractor: BAM

In March 2017, Perkins+Will relocated to The White Chapel Building in Aldgate. The new office space is an exemplar of workplace design as well as showcase for firm’s values. Most importantly, their aim to be LEED Gold and one of the first Fitwel certified projects in Europe, this project had very specific requirements:to create a flexible space that allows for agile working, collaboration and knowledge sharing amongst the staff. The company approached Billi UK with a clear objective:an energy-efficient boiling, chilled and sparkling system with a sleek design to match their contemporary break out areas.

The Wraptite external air barrier system from the A. Proctor Group has been chosen for its airtight benefits for a Department for Education (DfE) funded project of the offsite construction of Northampton School for Boys Multi-Academy Trust.The new project forms part of a full turnkey solution provided by Algeco, acting as Principal Design and Build Contractor alongside Watson Batty Architects. The project includes a total of 210 modules using Seismic technology, plus a hybrid structure for the halls, to create the 1200-place new secondary school, including sixth form.

Project: Innovation Centre, Marlborough CollegeDate: 2020 Background:·        APL were specified by the architect at an early stage in the project, providing a number of samples with different perforations and in different colours·        APL’s engineering team designed a bespoke aluminium sub-frame to minimise any window obstruction Systems:·        1,600m² of AP45HR-Airwall™ perforated profile in aluminium with a Class 2 PPC coating to both sides·        Bespoke-design APL aluminium sub-frame coloured-matched to the Airwall™·        All fixings and accessories  Building Location:·        Swindon

In July 1960 the SAS Royal Hotel opened in Copenhagen as the world’s first design hotel. Now known as the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, it was the embodiment of Arne Jacobsen’s whole-picture approach to architecture and design.Jacobsen received the brief in 1955 from Scandinavian Airlines System (SAS) to build the first hotel of its kind and set Copenhagen up as the Nordic gateway for the new tourists travelling from America. The hotel was to act as a terminal in the city centre, with guests whisked direct from its cocktail lounge to Kastrup Airport in a mere 20 minutes.

The addition of three extra stories to a traditionally built structure required a lightweight SIPS frame with FastClad brick slip system external skin, utilising the same bricks as the lower structure, to enable this to be achieved.This award winning project was created to meet the huge demand in London for high-quality, purpose-built Build to Rent apartments. Designed by Newground Architects, Rehearsal Rooms was one of London’s first institutionally backed BTR schemes. FastClad was chosen for it’s weight, ease of installation, fire properties, as well being indistinguishable from the areas of traditionally laid masonry.

Some recent shots of “Silk Mill”, the new purpose-built Novel Student Accommodation in Fountainbridge, Edinburgh – looking fantastic against a crisp, blue sky! Metal Technology Ltd supplied a range of high-performance architectural glazing systems through approved fabricator Avtek Ltd.The project was designed by Fletcher Joseph Associates and delivered by Watkin Jones Group. The building contains 225 rooms and includes a variety of recreational facilities to enhance student living, including a breakfast bar, gym, karaoke and gaming rooms and designated areas for dining and studying.

In the summer of 2007 the country witnessed extensive flooding with areas in England experiencing “over two months rainfall in just 14 hours.” Loss of water and electricity supply was experienced with thousands of homes. Providing protection against a 1 in 1000 year flood event involved building over 1 kilometer of reinforced concrete and sheet piled walls. As well as protecting the site from future flooding, the team at RHI Industrials worked in partnership with Lochrin Bain to ensure the security fencing system was fully integrated with the substations new flood defences.

The vibrant city of Amsterdam has a stunning new architectural highlight. Discover De Boelelaan, a modern building containing both residential and office space. The feature that really sets it apart is a magnificent rooftop garden. Safety barriers are an essential feature. Q-railing’s Easy Glass Pro glass balustrade system offers maximum transparency with the highest standards of safety. In this case, the balustrade is frameless, with a minimalist U-shaped stainless steel Q-railing profile on top. The 245 metres of glass railing also provide a useful wind break.