"timber windows"

Berwick Street is a lively and diverse community in the heart of London's Soho district, built between 1687 and 1703. It runs between Oxford Street to the north and Peter Street to the south and is well known for its thriving market which was established in the 18th century, making it one of the oldest markets in London.90-104 Berwick Street has recently been transformed from an unattractive 1950s block into a stylish, contemporary, mixed use development. Although unlisted, the building is situated in the Core Central Activities Zone and the Soho Conservation Area, so it was vital that any changes made were in keeping with the surroundings.Clement Windows Group was requested to supply and install the custom- made steel windows and door screens used for the shop fronts on the ground level. A combination of products was specified from both hot rolled and cold formed steel profiles all with polyester powder paint surface coatings. These included Clement W40 steel windows which sit beside and above the doors, the Jansen Economy 50 range of single and double doors and Jansen Economy 60 range of bi fold doors.The Project Manager, Ben Styles said “The Clement W40 steel windows and the Jansen Economy doors provided us with the slender, elegant frames we wanted for this Central London development, giving the shop fronts a contemporary look while remaining true to the urban origins of the site. Clement delivered to our timescales, and we would use them again.”

This is the perfect example of future proofing a traditional building, bringing it’s thermalperformance up to a modern standard, whilst conserving the historic timber frame and thevisual beauty of five centuries of gentle settlement and movement.

Duco responds to the requirement to create a healthy as well as (acoustically) comfortable indoor climate by using self-regulating window ventilators in the form of DucoFit 50 ‘SR’, DucoMax ‘SR’ and GlasMax ‘SR’. “DucoFit 50 ‘SR’ lends itself perfectly for use on the lower floors of the tower blocks whereas DucoMax ‘SR’ and GlasMax ‘SR’ window ventilators are eminently suitable at heights between 20 and 40 metres.

A new ferry terminal on Brodick Bay, created as a tourism and community gateway to the Scottish Isle of Arran, has been fitted from stem to stern with door and window systems supplied by GEZE.Maritime design and modern comfortThe ship-shaped terminal, designed by the renowned architectural firm Norr of Glasgow, is part of a £30 million investment which aims to update the harbour, get it ready for 21st century travel, and improve passenger comfort.Natural ventilation thanks to automated windowsThe generously sized lounge with its double height and large wall of windows on the western façade offers visitors a breathtaking view of Brodick Bay. The large windows, which are automatically opened and closed by 30 GEZE Slimchain chain drives, give the reception area at the main entrance to the building a bright and spacious feel. The uniquely slim and understated look of the Slimchain window drives integrates perfectly into the unique façade design of the Brodick ferry terminal.The Slimchain window drives were installed not only on the large windows in the lounge, but rather throughout the entire two-storey building – with the exception of the upper ventilation openings: Powerchain chain drives are used there. These especially powerful window drives were chosen to operate the larger windows, since they allow for large opening widths – which is important for quickly venting smoke in case of a fire.The window drives are connected to a GEZE MBZ 300 SHEV control panel for smoke and heat extraction drives, which is integrated into the building management system of the terminal. This makes it possible to easily control and monitor the complex natural ventilation system.Ventilation, smoke and heat extraction, and emergency exit protectionThe windows in the staircases are also equipped with Slimchain chain drives. If needed, the window systems also allow for natural smoke and heat extraction: In case of smoke and heat, the smoke extraction solutions open the windows and control fresh air openings, so that lifesaving escape routes remain smoke-free and safe to use in case of an emergency. In addition, GEZE OL Line manual fanlight openers provide supplementary natural ventilation.Door systems for accessible fire protection doorsBeneath the glazed western elevation are two automatic swing doors to either side. These are powered by GEZE Slimdrive EMD-F door systems, just like another door on the side façade of the building. The electro-mechanical swing door drives for single leaf fire and smoke protection doors are extremely versatile: They provide power assisted opening and can be initiated using the operating button with constant opening and closing speed. Integrated obstacle detection also identifies potential obstacles and stops the opening or closing process if needed. By doing so, Slimdrive EMD-F drives also ensure easy and safe access for people with mobility issues.Understated design and high access convenienceFrom the main entrance, a glazed corridor leads to a bi-parting sliding door powered by a GEZE Slimdrive SL NTsliding door system, which leads into the foyer of the main reception area. The Slimdrive door drive fulfils two key stipulations here at once: It is suitable for interior and exterior doors with high levels of footfall, and ideally suited for glass façades with high design standards – such as the Brodick ferry terminal – due to its low operator height of just 7 cm.

The University launched ambitious new plans for a £40 million state-of-the-art Collaborative Teaching Laboratory (CTL) to facilitate the teaching of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects.Our work for the project included the supply of approximately 684m2 of Soundis Absorb-R timber wall panels. The client opted for a combination of 8/3m Absorb-R WoodTec Grooved and Soundis Absorb-R WooTec Perforated 2/2/0.5 Perforated panels. This combination of the two styles creates a stylish yet elegant finish.Black panels were chosen for the walls and white panels for the railing areas, the contrast of the colours further promoting that modern style for the university.The old choice between Engineering-led functionality, and beautiful design not longer applies. Cutting-edge new technologies allow solid wood panels and multi-layer panels to be micro perforated to serve as highly effective sound absorbing cladding. Panel textures can also be tailored to serve project requirements.

All acoustic products which were installed on this project by UK Acoustic Systems were manufactured by Soundis, specifically their Soundis Absorb-R WoodTec range, which the client and architect approved due to their versatility, and the fact they were able to manufacture the products exactly to the project specific specification.The Micro Perforated Timber panels were located and installed on the curved rear wall of the auditorium. The timber core panels were faced with Micro Perforated Formica and the client decided upon the colour red which contrasted the other products within the auditorium tremendously.

Motorised drives from SIEGENIA make opening and closing windows easy, convenient and barrier-free. Whether they operate turn-and-tilt windows or inaccessible skylights, whether they operate via pushbutton, app or via the building control system, they ensure room comfort and well-being. SIEGENIA has now expanded their product range: as a supplement to the tried and tested DRIVE axxent DK, the DRIVE CL is now also available to fabricators and end users. While the DRIVE axxent DK, by reason of its compact dimensions, also enables integration into the wide range of aluminium profiles, the DRIVE CL is a magnificent choice in case of high demands with regard to cost-effectiveness.

Profile 22 has completed a refurbishment programme for Kirklees Council and its ALMO Kirklees Neighbourhood Housing (KNH) supplying 150 replacement windows, specified in-line with the principles of Passivhaus. Formerly Richmond Flats, Harold Wilson Court on Leeds Road in Huddersfield is an 11 storey building comprising 43 one-bedroom flats.

Swedish Luxury Home prepared for concealed blinds in every window. Amazing level of detail everywhere from bespoke flooring up to the top floor ceiling via floating staircase.The property developer wanted to future-proof the house with Blindspace so potential future needs for privacy or shading would not impact on the clean design.

The next generation of CS 38 is now available from Reynaers – Slim Line 38 (SL 38) is a highly insulated inward and outward opening aluminium window and door system, that combines elegance and comfort with a unique design. The special slender steel look offers the perfect windows and doors for modern architecture and the renovation of steel-frames, respecting the original design but offering a thermally improved solution. Large-framed Crittall Windows complement the industrial aesthetic and gives the building a unique character and identity of its own. The fabricator on the project was AWS Turner Fain Ltd, part of AWS Group.

Project: Kingsgate Primary SchoolProduct: Shiluvit by Oranit in White Washed Nordic PineArchitect: Maccreanor LavingtonInstaller: Lacunar LtdKingsgate Primary School, London (2018) Photos by Michael Whitestone PhotographySpecification:
Shiluvit 7-501White Washed Nordic Pine
20 x 45mm Blades with 40mm Gaps
Quantity:
1300m2LSA Projects Ltd are delighted to share with you a new award winning Oranit installation at Kingsgate Primary School in London.The £18 million, 5000m2 school has created over 420 new primary school places at the purpose built facility which is comprised of two connected two storey teaching blocks with generous picture windows throughout for an abundance of natural light.The site also has ample external space including running tracks, a science garden, and covered playing spaces in addition to being part of a community development project linking the site to a neighbouring park developed from unused green space in the area.The saw-toothed roof and external appearance of school was designed to reflect its industrial past and the cool tone light brickwork and generous windows bring the design up-to-date with current trends and the requirements of a modern building.Inside the school there is a consistent airy and neutral palette with white walls and ceiling interspersed with pale wood feature walls and stairways in addition to the white washed Nordic Pine Shiluvit panels.Oranit Shiluvit panels were chosen in part for the ceilings of the spaces due to their impressive acoustic power; the configuration chosen which included LSA Black High Density Acoustic mineral wool achieves an overall rating of Class A for acoustic absorption making it perfect for ensuring minimal reverberation across the spaces helping to keep a calm atmosphere.Nordic Pine timber was chosen for its depth of texture as well as its PEFC Certification, the timber was then white washed for a clean and bright appearance.

Glazing Vision has helped enhance daylight ina cleverly constructed London home using ourPitchglaze Roof Windows.New build projects in built up areas such as Londoncan be challenging, however Clapton Roadis an example of excellent precision and wonderfullyexecuted construction. Gauld Architecturehave created the perfect modern home usinginsightful architectural detail and two GlazingVision Roof Windows. The drawings called formodern architecture at every corner, from zinccladding to wooden interiors.A single storey doctor’s surgery had previouslybeen converted to a residential building, butunfortunately the home had very little floor area.The property overlooked a private garden behindand suffered from damp as well as a lack ofprivacy from passers-by, and so an upgradewas overdue. Previous planning applications toextend had been refused, and so an alternativeorganisational approach was needed to improveresidential amenity.The proposed works consisted of splitting theaccommodation over three levels, with thebedroom and bathroom a half level belowground, and the kitchen and entrance at streetlevel with the living space a half level above toenable views out over the heads of pedestrians.The split helps to reduce the massing and theasymmetric roof is shaped to minimise impacton the natural light to the neighbour’s windowsand garden behind.Construction commenced on the property, andquickly it was confirmed the boundary brick wallcould be salvaged from the previous structuregiving a familiar and robust public facing edgeand provides a desired sleek finish to the wall.The home also boasts crisp zinc roofing and wallcladding detailing, providing a smooth transitionfrom the exposed bricks to the first storey.The Pitchglaze Roof Windows allowed GauldArchitecture to achieve a seamless junction withthe folded zinc, with the glazing set on the sameplane to give the roof a pleasing continuity.Internally, the glazing is sized so the externalviews are framed only by the lined reveals,with the roof window largely hidden giving asleek finish. The Pitchglaze roof windows wereinstalled by the contractor, an easy installationprocess is guaranteed by following our installvideo or consulting our installation guide. Muchnatural light is captured via the roof windows,positioned strategically to ensure good andeven distribution throughout, while set flushwith the zinc to achieve a surface tension andpleasing solidity to the roof planes. These highqualityelements and considered massing resultin a greatly improved contribution to the street scene.“Glazing Vision helped give guidance on the interface between the roof window and a buildup thatwe were unfamiliar with. Our local Technical Specification Manager was very knowledgeable onintegrating the roof windows into the roof.” – Kevin Gauld, Director, Gauld ArchitectureThe minimalist interior coupled with striking exterior design meet perfectly to ensure a modernand desired look. The Pitchglaze Roof Windows solved a lasting problem with the home and wereresponsible for providing the client with the sought after amount of natural daylight.If you are working on a project which requires rooflights or roof windows get in contact with us on01379 658300 or fill in our contact form.

As part of our involvement in this project we supplied a bespoke reception desk and a variety of fire-rated door-sets.

Profile 22 has supplied its Optima Casement solution to 62 social housing properties in Rusholme, Manchester for Arawak Walton Housing Association. Merseyside based Total Glass, a longstanding member of the Profile 22 Approved Window Contractor scheme, supplied 434 Profile 22 Optima Casement PVC-U windows during refurbishment works on the homes. The Windows were installed by Lancashire based Countrywide UPVC. Paul Campbell, Director of Countrywide UPVC, said: “We have a long standing relationship with Profile 22, We also regularly use their free specification support services which really assist us with the tendering process.

Architects: Bryden Wood Architects Product: Canadian Western Red Cedar Timber Cladding & Blue Label Certigrade Shingles Approximately 24km of Canadian Western Red Cedar has been suppled for this project so far in London, a new build development of 9 blocks, each containing multiple apartments, with undercroft parking. Untreated Canadian Western Red Cedar cladding from NORclad will weather off to a silver grey appearance over time, and settle into the surrounding area. The same species was selected, this time not to be machined into a T&G cladding, but as Blue Label WRC Certigrade Shingles.

Bespoke garage and car port doors from Rundum Meir, which provide natural ventilation and daylighting into enclosed garage spaces, can deliver a seamless aesthetic result in contemporary architecture featuring vertical timber board-on-batten cladding. This is illustrated at the Abode development in Cambridgeshire, where the architects delivered uniformity across different housing styles using a limited palette of materials. Horizontal and vertical cladding was extended into the doors for the car ports manufactured in matching oak. These ventilated doors enable fresh air and daylight to flow through the car ports from the rear gardens, adding an interesting visual dimension.

We supplied our partner, Fast Floor Screed Ltd with SMET LiteFlo® Lightweight Flowing Screed for the first floor of a timber frame house. This lightweight screed is ideal for renovation projects where loading is an issue. This is a high quality pumpable, factory-produced, CE marked, self-levelling screed based on calcium sulphate. German-made SMET LiteFlo® is unique because it’s the first pumpable lightweight flowing screed available. Made from specially selected aggregates – means it’s 30% lighter than conventional flowing screeds and can be laid in reduced thicknesses. The screed offers a high yield, 43kg per m2 @ 40mm.Innovative SMET LiteFlo® is particularly suitable for use in timber-frame builds, suspended timber floors, tower blocks, apartments, and high-rise buildings. SMET demonstrates best practice in construction partnerships – providing a superior level of customer service to their Smet Supported Partners during the installation process.Whether your job is – self-build, retro-fit, floor renovation or repair, design floor, commercial or shop, sustainable build, historical renovation, ECO build, Lightweight, or an industrial flooring venture – SMET have a flooring compound or ready to use product suitable for your application.www.smetbuildingproducts.com or www.smet.ie

London based Granit Architects, chose Clement Windows to manufacture and install this fabulous two storey steel screen for this residential project in Clapham. Clement’s EB24 steel window system was specified for its slim, strong sections, allowing maximum light gain. The screen which included a multi point locking single door on the ground floor is polyester powder coated in RAL 9005 matt black and finished with a dark bronze effect handle.

Eurocell’s involvement in a large scale student accommodation construction project helped to add value through the specification of a high quality, striking and versatile PVC-U window solution.  

The Department Store Studios by Squire & Partners is a four-storey contemporary workspace in Brixton, extending the refurbishment of The Department Store. It offers 13,000 sq ft of workspace and 4,500 sq ft of retail space, with flexible workspaces, serviced social and meeting areas, a neighborhood bar, restaurant, and screening room.The Department Store Studios features projected snapped header brick details using a bespoke blend of handmade Hampshire Red, Light Victorian Red and Farnham Red bricks. These bricks have been uniquely arranged to produce a textured finish that contrasts white mortar and smooth stone lintels. Taking inspiration from the robust Edwardian aesthetic of The Department Store, the new development features patterned brickwork and contemporary faceted bay windows. Black Smooth bullnose engineering bricks line the ground floor to fit within the neighbouring buildings. A setback fourth floor creates generous external terraces, and is planted with a green roof to enhance biodiversity. faceted bay windows, and a green roof for enhanced biodiversity.Inside, the building emphasizes sustainability with exposed cross-laminated timber, brick finishes, and exposed services. A 120 sqm green roof and 27 solar panels support renewable energy use. The Studios also promotes local businesses through a Residency scheme for young entrepreneurs and a curated event program for skill sharing and creativity.

Lee’s Custom Woodwork Ltd has used MEDITE TRICOYA EXTREME to repair the window surrounds and a swimming pool roof lantern of a residential property in South Shields, Tyne and Wear.

The new office development for the New Gorbals Housing Association in Glasgow features a variety of aluminium fenestration solutions. Together these have helped create a light and airy workspace and an impressive centrepiece for the wider regeneration of the area.Located on Crown Street, the new commercial office building is complemented by a new civic piazza and has been designed by Page & Park Architects. Flexibility and adaptability were key focuses for the overall design, with the incorporation of daylighting and natural ventilation strategies to boost wellbeing, and large glazed facades to better connect the building with the local community.The welcoming main entrance has been created using Senior’s slimline and thermally-enhanced SF52 aluminium curtain wall system and SPW501 aluminium commercial doors. The fenestration package also includes Senior’s SPW600e aluminium windows which were used throughout. The ground floor glazing has been recessed to provide privacy to the internal work spaces whilst complementing the overall ‘open’ design of the scheme. In contrast, the first-floor glazing protrudes slightly to maximise views of the surrounding city. Senior’s products were fabricated and installed by Scottech for main contractor CCG.The office environment includes both large areas for group work and smaller, more private booths and is centred around a large timber-clad atrium. The use of internal and external glazed partitions and windows helps balance the space, providing links with both the other areas of the building and the outside. The fenestration package has also been designed to provide those using the building with multiple aspect views and daylighting, whilst avoiding overheating and glare from the summer sun. To further complement the overall façade design which features dark grey zinc cladding, and to boost the durability of the aluminium frames, the windows, doors and curtain wall systems were powder coated.

Preserving the unique charm and historical significance of heritage buildings is a top priority for architects and specifiers. However, incorporating modern advancements and energy-efficient solutions into these structures can often pose challenges. In this case study, we highlight the successful collaboration between VGUK and Kingsrock Joinery in restoring a heritage building in London, where LandVac Vacuum Insulated Glazing played a pivotal role in transforming the existing heritage windows.TL:DRHeritage Building Restoration London: Transforming Heritage Windows with LandVac Vacuum GlazingProject Overview:Heritage building restoration in collaboration with Kingsrock JoineryIntegration of LandVac Vacuum Insulated Glazing into heritage windowsOvercoming resistance from planners for energy-efficient solutionsAchievements and Benefits:Visual Impact: Stunning visuals of heritage vacuum glazing units in the restored building Authentic and visually appealing windows that maintain the building's characterThermal Performance: U-value achieved: approximately 0.95 W/m2K Narrow unit width of 8.3mm Exceptional insulation properties reduce heat transfer Improved energy efficiency and reduced energy consumption Enhanced occupant comfort and thermal comfortConclusion:Successful integration of LandVac Vacuum Glazing in heritage windowsOvercame initial scepticism from plannersStunning windows with improved thermal performance and visual appealContributed to energy efficiency and occupant comfortA collaborative success with Kingsrock Joinery in preserving heritage while embracing modern advancementsProject Overview:Working closely with Kingsrock Joinery, we embarked on a mission to preserve the heritage of a remarkable building while embracing modernity. The challenge we faced was the initial resistance from planners who believed that vacuum glazing would clash with the traditional aesthetic of the building. However, Jeremy Murphy, the owner of Kingsrock, strongly believed in the harmonious integration of modern technology with the authentic look and feel of traditional architecture.Solving Resistance with Stunning Results:To address the planners' concerns, we proposed the use of flush casement windows glazed with LandVac Vacuum Insulated Glazing. By employing toughened LandVac Vacuum Glazing, Kingsrock was able to achieve a slight distortion that added a touch of authenticity to the windows. The final result was a perfect blend of modernity and heritage, enhancing the visual appeal of the building while meeting the required energy efficiency standards.Visual Impact:The restored building stands as a testament to the successful integration of LandVac Vacuum Glazing into heritage windows. The stunning visuals showcase the seamless combination of modern technology and the architectural authenticity of the building. The heritage vacuum glazing units perfectly preserve the character of the structure while providing enhanced thermal performance.Thermal Performance:Beyond its remarkable visual impact, LandVac Vacuum Glazing delivered outstanding thermal performance. With a U-value of approximately 0.95 W/m2K, the narrow unit width of 8.3mm ensures minimal heat transfer between the interior and exterior. This significant improvement in thermal insulation not only enhances energy efficiency but also contributes to increased occupant comfort and reduced energy consumption.Conclusion:The successful integration of LandVac Vacuum Glazing into heritage windows for the restoration of a London heritage building stands as a testament to the possibilities of merging modern technology with architectural preservation. By overcoming initial resistance from planners, we achieved stunning windows that seamlessly blend heritage aesthetics with exceptional thermal performance. The project not only enhances the visual appeal of the building but also contributes to energy efficiency and occupant comfort.We extend our gratitude to Kingsrock Joinery for their collaboration and expertise in manufacturing and installing these outstanding heritage vacuum glazing units. Together, we have demonstrated that preserving our architectural heritage can coexist harmoniously with the benefits of modern advancements in glazing technology.

HAG was proud to work with The National Trust to secure ‘Hafod Eyri’, the amazing £8.4m visitor centre atop Snowdon - the highest peak in England and Wales. HAG’s bespoke security products were designed not just to protect against intrusion, but also from extreme elements – wind speeds up to 150mph and temperatures as low as -20oC. A particular difficulty to overcome was securing the iconic ‘Window on the World’ offering views of England, Ireland, Scotland and Isle of Man. However, our design and manufacture expertise enabled us to supply adapted Armourguard products to fit the brief even at 3500ft!

The new building and the renovation project impress with generous outdoor spaces and appealing architecture. The Lindner Group played a major role in the interior fit-out.For a modern look, a combination of glass and wood was chosen – the Lindner Life Stereo 125 Glass Partitiontherefore meets wooden doors and wooden partitions.These were complemented by wall claddings and partitions made of metal: Thanks to their magnetic properties, these can be easily used to organise documents and design elements, what makes them highly functional.Furthermore, Lindner installed a custom-made counter cladding as a special solution for the sliding window as well as a raised floor for the technical rooms in the basement.Completed WorksPartitionsPartition Systems GlassLindner Life Stereo 125Partition Systems Full PanelLindner Logic 100 TimberLindner Logic 100 MetalWall and ceiling panelsLindner Free MetalFloorsChipboard panels LIGNA

The intricate facade on Garden Halls was inspired by the existing large-scale Victorian and Edwardian buildings that populate Bloomsbury, such as the Russell Square Hotel and Victoria House. The windows employ a very thin profile section, achieved with Reynaers CS 38-SL systems, and have a decorated, perforated aluminium screen to the side. This uses an insulated panel that can be opened from the inside for ventilation. The lower level screens are bronze-coloured anodised aluminium, while the upper screens are powder coated.

Throughout the refurbishment of the Acute Medical Unit we were pleased to be involved with the supply of fully encapsulated postformed door-sets and ironmongery to offer a seamless package and ensure an effective, durable finish was achieved.

Paint-grade door-sets supplied to the refurbishment of staff Offices at St. Marys Hospital - Portsmouth. Each Door-set was supplied factory painted with individual colour scheme requirements for each office area.

At the heart of the new Pontoon Dock development is the ‘Royal Wharf Medical Centre’. As part of the internal fit-out package we were included for the supply of bespoke internal Fire doors, Screens and Architectural Ironmongery.Laminate door-sets were chosen to provide durability and great aesthetics. With A.W.Oak Linings and screens a great overall appearance was achieved that fully complies with the stringent requirements of a demanding environment.

We were approached to transform the rear decked terrace of this lovely destination pub with stunning views on the Ridgeway in Enfield...

Founded in 1541 by King Henry VIII, The King’s School is a prestigious co-educational independent school with a rich history, educating children from 4 -18 years of age.

With a new variant, SIEGENIA is expanding the opportunities for the use of its tried and tested TITAN hardware: the TITAN PVC hinge side now enables the achievement of sash weights up to 150 kg for PVC windows. The company is therefore providing a high-performance solution combining high light incidence with state-of-the-art sound and thermal protection requirements, thus enabling a high degree of room comfort. The new hinge side also exhibits additional strengths in production and assembly, where it distinguishes itself by its simple and speedy fabrication.

The customer wanted to build a deck on the first storey of a period building in Chicago The windows opening out on to the roof were positioned considerably higher than the rooftop itself, which meant that the structure deployed to support the deck would also need to raise it up almost a metre to meet the threshold. We recommended a number of our heavy-duty Megapads ranging from 711mm to 876mm to account for the gradual fall in the roof. The customer chose not to envelope the pedestals because he liked the industrial look created, in keeping with downtown Chicago.

Woodlands is a high-quality retirement scheme of 17 luxury apartments by PegasusLife, now part of Lifestory, in exclusive Canford Cliffs, Dorset. Designed by Snug Architects, the building’s striking, contemporary form is crafted to include a carefully specified combination of whitewashed, vertical timber cladding, glazed balconies, bronze-coloured windows and white Antro facing brick slips from leading brick innovator, Vandersanden. “It was the team at PegasusLife that first suggested using Vandersanden brick slips,” explains Mike Worthington, director at Snug Architects. “The very stylish Antro brick complements the whitewashed timber cladding and the bronze metal colour of the windows very well to provide an incredibly mature material palette.” Within walking distance of the beach, Woodlands stands on Flaghead Road amongst age-old pines. The building’s architecture was inspired by its setting and, although bold and contemporary, relates harmoniously to the scale of the surrounding housing. The structure was conceived as a three-storey modern brick envelope with a basement car park that has lift access. Woodlands was built using a reinforced concrete frame construction. Instead of traditional brickwork, Gebrik Brick Cladding Panels featuring Vandersanden’s Antro brick slips were supplied by Aquarian Cladding for the project. These were constructed off-site and installed straight onto the building frame. By using Gebrik panels, the aesthetics of the building were maintained as originally designed while minimising on-site works. A further advantage was that the build programme was more efficient than with traditional construction as the building was watertight more quickly, so interior spaces could be fitted out in tandem with work to the exterior. To complete the facade, Antro brick pistols and splayed/canted brick specials were employed with the bricks wrapped underneath the soffit of window and balcony openings. Vandersanden’s Antro stock facing bricks have a sanded-coated and creased structure. They are a mix of different kinds of clay forms and made with 100% natural resources; the loam that forms the most important base material dates from the Ice Age. By using specific sand types for the surface covering, the desired colour is achieved. Mike Worthington says: “The Vandersanden bricks are good quality and provided the basis for a beautiful and mature materiality for this retirement living development which we were delighted with. They’ve weathered very well and we’re regularly complimented on the scheme and asked who supplied the bricks. We’re very proud of it.” Canford Cliffs is an affluent suburb of Poole with a significant population of retired people. PegasusLife is a retirement living provider on a mission to fundamentally re-think retirement living in the UK. Unsurprisingly, Woodlands was shortlisted for the 2017 RIBA South West Awards. Further details on Snug Architects are available at https://www.snugarchitects.co.uk. To find out more about the bricks used in this project or to see the wide range of high-quality bricks available from Vandersanden, click on the 'View more' link 

This luxury home was designed to have fully concealed blinds in every window. The owners were enthusiastic to design a home that was the best to the last detail. Blinds and curtains are controlled using Lutron® and were installed using the Blindspace® concealment products. Bespoke electric curtains were included to provide softness and the fully concealed blinds were used to control the light and privacy. Through careful planning from the outset of the project, the inclusion of concealed blinds has achieved the best end result. Dark-coloured fabrics have been used where maximum visibility was desired but softer white-toned used in bath and dressing rooms. Bedrooms and media room have been supplied using dark-coloured blackout material to make a statement when used.

Located in Anglesey and operated by Bangor University, Menai Science Park is the flagship building for Wales' first dedicated science park. The facility is built to BREEAM Excellent standards and comprises of 5,000 sqm of offices, laboratories and workshop space for up to 700 people - from start-up businesses to large corporate companies. The building's structure features a striking white continuous flowing ribbon that forms wall, floor and roof surfaces and wraps around the glazed facade to the front elevation. The two-storey entrance connects to the main three-storey, traditional brick cavity U-shape building,m which houses the laboratories and offices and features a facade that encloses an open courtyard. Aluminium curtain walling from Technal was installed and spans 74m x 11m. This had to follow the curvature and flow of the ribbon at the point of fabrication. The key area for this facade is the first floor horizontal and sloping ribbon - the curtain walling continues behind the Corian rainscreen. One particularly challenging detail is the 6m glazed linking walkway that connects the innovation area to the brick-built main building. Designed with a double-pitched roof, the curtain walling follows the long contours across the two pitches of the roof at an angle. This involved calculations and modelling to accommodate the difficult compound angles to ensure the desired architectural intent was achieved. Throughout the building, aluminium casement windows have been installed, some as inserts within the facade including automatic opening vents, and to the courtyard elevations. Completing this contemporary outdoor space, the windows are complemented with timber rainscreen panels.