"glazing"

A new prestige office development in Sandton, Johannesburg is using a combined smoke and natural ventilation system, involving automatic window vents in the building’s elliptical glazed central tower, which is actuated and controlled by an integrated solution from SE Controls Africa.

With sustainable and responsible design being at the forefront of modern architecture, it’s no surprise that Gale & Snowden Architects chose Kawneer’s innovative aluminium glazing systems as part of the energy efficient design to transform St Sidwell’s Point into the UK’s first Passivhaus leisure centre.

Walsall based fabricators Aluminium Glazing Solutions (Midlands) Ltd won the contract to manufacture and install Kestrel Aluminium’s curtain wall and window systems for a prestige development of five and six bedroom detached houses on the Coton House Estate, near Rugby.

Taking sustainability to a new level, 8 Bishopsgate is tallest building in the UK to achieve a BREEAM Outstanding and EPC A rating. Contributing to the low carbon footprint, Style, who offer moveable partitioning wall systems that are certified with an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) in accordance with ISO 14025 and EN15804, was contracted to work with architect, WilkinsonEyre and contractor, Brown and Carroll, to create flexible space on three levels.Utilising a combination of Dorma Huppe Variflex semi-automatic, solid and glazed moveable wall systems, Style created adaptable meeting and breakout areas to accommodate different sized groups and events whilst maximising the use of natural light.8 Bishopsgate is a landmark, 50-storey tower offering premium office space in central London. With sustainability a key element, the building boasts an array of architectural optimisations ranging from the recycling of heat from the cooling systems to the installation of the highest solar panels in London. Positioning the company and its products at the forefront of sustainability, Style not only holds the EPD, but is also accredited under the ISO 14001:2004 Environmental Management System, ensuring operational processes maximise sustainability goals whilst limiting wasted resources.In addition to Style’s green credentials, the moveable walls installed at 8 Bishopsgate boast a 52db acoustic rating on the glazed walls, and a 59db rating on the solid walls, ensuring complete privacy between divided areas.Not forgetting aesthetics, on level 2 the solid walls are finished in a perforated timber veneer, and on level 50 a kvadrat steel cut trio fabric was applied, perfectly harmonising with the interior décor.On the concourse, Style installed a glazed sliding folding wall system allowing a private area to be created without compromising natural light.A combination of semi-automatic Dorma Huppe Variflex solid and glazed walls create adaptable meeting and breakout areas on the second floor. At the top of the building, a further semi-automatic Variflex moveable wall adds flexibility to an expansive conference facility with breathtaking views over London.

Sash Window Renovation at Grade II Listed Chester Railway StationThe period windows of the historic Chester Railway Station have undergone significant refurbishment as part of a £10 million renovation effort to restore the Grade II listed railway station, part of the Chester Renaissance programme. The sash windows dating back to 1848 have been restored by leading period window specialist Ventrolla.Having deteriorated over time, several sashes needed a complete renovation to improve the facilities in the Arriva Training Room and Medical Room as they were experiencing troublesome draughts, leaks, rattles and operational issues.Due to the historical nature of the building it, was imperative that the new sash windows retained the heritage without compromising on quality.THE PROJECT WORKSThe unique Ventrolla Perimeter Sealing System (VPSS) was installed to combat draughts and reduce external noise.As part of the sash window repair, the sash cords were replaced, pulleys serviced and sashes correctly balanced to ensure the smooth and safe operation of the windows.The project was completed in two phases, both being done through the weekend so as to minimise commuter disruption.The original curved window located in the Training Room was given a complete overhaul, replacing the single-glazed panels with bespoke slim double-glazed units. On completion of this, the two large curved windows of the Medical Room were also fitted with double-glazed units using traditional methods of carpentry to retain the aesthetic features of the building.Gareth Ellis, Site Manager from MPH Construction, who oversaw the project, said:“The work that Ventrolla did was very impressive. The craftsmen were professional and efficient, completing the work promptly and delivering a superb finish.”“An unexpected benefit was the reduction in external noise, which due to the station’s high footfall can often lead to disruption and distraction for the staff when dealing with important matters.”DO YOU HAVE A SASH WINDOW PROJECT YOU NEED HELP WITH?Whether that’s your own home or a commercial project you’re tendering for, with almost 40 years’ experience, Ventrolla offers a tailored range of period window solutions including repair and renovation, new timber windows, double glazing, secondary glazing and a wide range of window hardware.Our head office is based in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, with regional offices located throughout the UK and Ireland.You can contact our helpful team today on our website, by emailng info@ventrolla.co.uk or calling 0800 0277 454.

Bespoke graphic working of the glazed partitions formed part of the interior conservation philosophy by acclaimed architects Page Park, who were awarded the project to breath new energy into St. Cecilia's Hall - part of University of Edinburgh's concert hall and music museum

The extension and refurbishment of these offices needed high-quality systems befitting their prestigious location adjacent to Windsor Castle and the listed Eton Central Station.The Windsor Dials complex comprises two buildings, Windsor One and Two. Building one had a double-height entrance installed and a two-storey glazed extension added to the roof. A double-height entrance was also created in building two with a single-storey extension to the roof. The glazed extensions provide the offices with views of Windsor Castle and the surrounding area.Hale Architects designed the project with Corley Woolley as the main contractor. Anglian Architectural fabricated and installed the building envelope. It features Schüco FSW 60 and FWS 50 S curtain walling, providing the contemporary aesthetic the client requested. The project also used Schüco door systems, including the ADS 65 HD and ASE 60 lift-and-slide doors.

Impressive glazed screens, featuring VELFAC slim framed windows, are a key feature of the VELUX HQ extension by Sinclair Watt Architects. The VELFAC composite system, with its low maintenance aluminium exterior and inner pine frame, also blends seamlessly with VELUX roof windows.

Described by architects Proctor and Matthews as a ‘courtyard oasis for later living’, large fixed VELFAC windows combine with smaller units and doors, all with uniform sightlines to create glazed screens fronting all 38 apartments. The internal timber frame also creates a ‘domestic’ interior finish’.

The new £24 million purpose-built Torfaen Learning Zone is set to transform sixth form learning within the borough and brings education for the area into the 21st century. The campus, situated in the heart of Cwmbran, replaces all sixth forms in the Torfaen Borough, to give learners access to the best facilities and a community of further education learners.  The new state-of-the-art college has been built over five levels. Within the building, there are two stunning central atria which lead to modern classrooms, IT rooms, science laboratories, and an art studio. The facility also provides a performance hall, music and media suite, and a library. In addition, students can benefit from quiet rooms, chill-out areas, flexible working spaces, social spaces and a cafeteria.   Lusso worked in close collaboration with Interserve to ensure the project was completed despite the ongoing uncertainty around Covid-19 and challenging social distancing regulations. Lusso Atria Glazing was installed to create light throughout the building, giving the interior space a wow factor. Lusso 25 Single Glazed and Lusso 105 Double Glazed Partition Systems were used to create individual spaces for different needs of the learning centre. The overall effect is a bright, contemporary building that the Borough can be proud of. Students will be encouraged by their inviting, modern space, as well as benefitting from the new amenities and facilities. It is truly an inspirational educational environment for both teaching and learning, perfect for inspiring young minds.I

Caudwell International Children’s Centre (CICC) is the UK’s first independent Centre dedicated to autism diagnosis, therapy and research. National Charity, Caudwell Children, funded the 60,000 sq ft iconic £18 million facility which has been built in Staffordshire near Keele University. The aim of the Centre is to unite the world’s leading experts on autism diagnosis and therapy.The Centre features two internal courtyards and an innovative ‘Butterfly’ design which reflects the charity’s logo. It has been meticulously designed to meet the needs of disabled children and surpasses current UK accessibility standards.  The Centre incorporates state-of-the art assessment suites, family training suites, and training kitchens. There is even a 120-seat conference facility so that experts can share ideas from around the world.The 360-degree loop corridors aim to discourage children from running and, without harsh, right-angled corners, there is less risk of surprise encounters which might cause anxiety. ‘Quiet Pods’ and sensory rooms have also been provided to create a calming space.A combination of Lusso 25 single glazed partitions and Lusso 105 double glazed partitions were installed to meet the varying needs within the building. This helps to ensure visibility for safety, and acoustic requirements to reduce noise levels so as not to over-stimulate children. Lusso 25FR and Lusso 105FR were also used whre fire regulations were required. Overall, the use of glazed partitions within the design ensures the building is modern, contemporary, and bright for all visitors to the Centre.    

The £44m state of the art Brain Research Imaging Centre (CUBRIC) brings together world-leading expertise in brain mapping with the very latest in brain imaging and brain stimulation. This multi award-winning project is home to the Clinical Research Facility and is part of Cardiff University’s Maindy Park site.The new building is four times larger than the old facility, meaning staff from different departments now benefit from being housed under one roof, allowing for increased collaboration and innovation. Research carried out at the centre aims to help scientists understand the causes and find treatments for brain changes that lead to disordered cognition and mental health issues.This hub offers a range of facilities including an NHS standard medical suite with drug trial unit, specialist scanning suites, laboratories, office accommodation and large seminar facilities within an open-plan environment. For the interior, architects, IBI Group, chose rich materials such as wood, bold colours and geometric shapes which were complimented by Lusso’s glass partitioning. This has created a professional yet welcoming space. In keeping with the design, Lusso 105 double glazed frameless partitions were installed for offices and meeting rooms.  Fitted with interstitial blinds, users can create privacy whenever needed. The use of glazed partitions also makes best use of the natural light and creates an inclusive space. Lusso also installed bespoke high acoustic glazed vision panels with specialist glass for the scanning suites. The overall effect is an inspirational space for research and innovation at an international level.

St Paul’s Church in Leeds has been transformed with the addition of a large, bespoke steel door screen and feature steel window. The screen incorporates a pair of double doors, providing light and airiness. Both the new steel window and door set are made from Clement EB24 steel sections which include double glazed, argon filled glass units. Mark Harlow, the Vicar, said “St Paul’s Church embarked on a major refurbishment of their 60 year old building to make a warm and welcoming, adaptable space while keeping to the original architect’s ideas. A key part of the brief was to widen the entrance corridor and allow light into one end. This has all been more than achieved using Clement’s metal frame windows and doors. These have helped create an additional space for people to meet and mix. The narrow profile of the frames has allowed maximum light and visual access between the spaces, while the rhythm of the glazing bars both modernise and blend with the architecture of the main worship space.” Architect Tom Robbins of Pearce Bottomley Architects commented: “We have worked with Clement on a number of projects and have been very pleased with the service we have received and the quality of their products. They supplied the steel framed glazed screen and feature window at St Paul’s Church, Ireland Wood, Leeds and we couldn’t have been happier with the result. We also specify Clement’s conservation rooflights whenever we can, as we are of the opinion that they are the best on the market.”

This project was undertaken for a global financial services company with a long and distinguished pedigree. One of the world’s most recognisable investment management brands, it has offices in the Americas, Europe, Asia and Australia.As leading innovators in the design and manufacture of adaptable and reusable solid and glazed partitions, Radii were a perfect fit for this project.We designed a series of systems based on three of our existing Linear 30 single-glazed partitions (Rw 40 dB) and our Parallel 50 and 100  double-glazed partitions (Rw 45 & 50 dB), combined with Hogan pivot doors throughout.To accommodate deflection, we created a bespoke blind box detail capable of a +/- 15mm lateral movement. We also created new extrusions to achieve a +/-59mm deflection, used to deal with vertical movement in isolated locations.Installation of our system was complex because of the variety of partitions used, combined with physical variations between storeys. This meant we had to survey every part of the building separately to ensure our partitions and doors fit perfectly. We co-ordinated with other trades to ensure installation was exactly as required.We began this major fit-out in January 2023 and completed it within 20 weeks – well within schedule. The final partition systems exceeded the prescribed acoustic ratings, while the overall project achieved BREEAM ‘Excellent’ and LEED ‘Gold’ ratings. We were delighted to be awarded with a contractor rating of 9.9 out of 10 for what was a very complex and demanding design and installation.

The ChallengeNo. 1 Horgan’s Quay is one of the development’s three office buildings, with the upper floors of the new modern structure cantilevered over the site’s original Goods Shed. The lobby area features a large glazed partition on the first floor, helping to create an open, light space, as well as sympathetically blending the old restored structure with the new.KCC Group, a door and glazing contractor, were appointed to deliver the EI30 SWS Screen works on the project. Site Contracts Manager, Ger McNamee, said: “In order to ensure the safety of those within the building, 30-minute fire protection was required for the reception area, providing a fire barrier between the lobby and the first floor. Once we had the fire safety glass specification from the architect, O’Mahony Pike Architects, it was up to our team at KCC Group to source a supplier – this is when our relationship with Pyroguard began.”The SolutionTo ensure that the desired aesthetic was achieved, while also meeting building safety regulations, Pyroguard Infinity T-EI30/24-2 SWS fire safety glass was chosen by KCC Group and installed in the glazed partition, within a Jansen steel profile system.Pyroguard Infinity is a range of fire safety glass certified for butt-joint applications. With no vertical frame profiles required, it’s the ideal solution for providing visually appealing seamless partitions. Manufactured to EI classification, Pyroguard Infinity provides the highest level of integrity and heat insulation, protecting against flames, smoke and heat.

Wienerberger’s glazed brick used to reflect the history and prestige of one of London’s most famous landmarks, the Savoy Hotel. The epitome of luxury and grandeur, the Savoy has played host to a who’s who of Royalty and Hollywood superstars over the years, with Marilyn Monroe known to have been a regular guest.

A successful refurbishment of a disused building translated into 42 beautiful one and two bedroom apartments. The building ‘Cambridge House’ was enhanced externally by applying cladding and updated glazing. RCM supplied Vitrabond ACM cladding to the project. An additional, unforeseen opportunity also presented itself to RCM whilst working on the project.

This 19 storey building incorporates high quality office accommodation commanding magnificent views of the river Thames. Location: LondonContractor: MaceArchitect: Allford Hall Monaghan Morris Aspex supplied: Ironmongery with stainless steel handles and doorsets with flush glazing beads and a shadow gap frame detail

Glassfields is a new high-spec office development which forms the gateway to Bristol’s Temple Quarter. The completed building offers the perfect environment for how businesses work today.With 93,000 square feet of high-quality office space, it has been designed with the tenants’ well-being in mind and provides a flexible, adaptive, and creative space. The design of the interior called for an industrial look which made Lusso 25 Geometric glazed partitioning system, with its black powder coated frames and banded look, the ideal choice. High acoustic Silenzio doors and Lusso 25 frameless single glazed system, also powder coated in black, were used to complement the design. The overall look provides a stunning, dramatic, and classy environment in which to attract and retain talent.The building has achieved BREEAM Excellent accreditation and an EPC rating A, embracing industry best practice, energy efficiency measures and sustainable technology.

Radii create a bespoke glass partition system design for BCG Digital Ventures, with new dies manufactured especially for the project at our in-house manufacturing facilities.Previously, Radii had worked at 80 Charlotte Street for BCG to produce a stunning timber-framed partition system across 257 meeting rooms and offices in the floors directly above the Digital Ventures site. This new installation was designed to match our original work for BCG and create a synergy throughout the space — but with aluminium framework used in place of timber.The final installation used 100mm wide single glazed partitions and joinery with consistent mullion details. Furthermore, bespoke dies were also created for black powder coated aluminium light portals that were installed around some partitioning elements with integrated LED lighting.Radii also provided some fire rated glazing from the FirePro range, certified up to Ei120 rating for screens and Ei90 for doors.

Products:Stairs: OS211 Orbis Glass Infill Top FixCourtyard Podium: M311 Mono Glass Infill Top FixCone Glazing: V510S Glass Infill Fascia Mount Side FixContractor: Galliford TryArchitect: 10architectDelta were proud to work alongside Galliford Try and 10architect to supply balustrades and handrails to the new community cluster on behalf of Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust.The £15m development included the construction of a new build facility that provides space for mental health and neurodevelopmental outpatient facilities and a 12-bed specialist inpatient mental health unit.Community Cluster forms a key element of the growing Alder Hey campus, the facility brings a centre of excellence for Children’s health closer to nature within a newly created landscape.Delta’s structural glass range, Vista, helped to materialise the architects vision for the unique cone glazing design.

A 22 and 17 storey development offering 286 apartments and penthouses at the heart of the city.The modern glazed facades utilise 2 seperate metallic finishes across the aluminium shadow box panels. The design seeks to complement and reflect the surrounding Victorian and industrial architecture.Finishes: Y2208I Sumela and Y4307I Djibouti Sable

The £1.5 million fenestration for this new housing development on behalf of Crest Nicholson Regeneration was delivered in conjunction with specialist commercial fabricator Dempsey Dyer. It features: 5,000 frames Deceuninck 5000 series Tilt and Turn 7015 Anthracite on White 0.9 U Value - triple glazing casements with special thermal reinforcement

LAMILUX designed, manufactured and installed this glazed 'Geo Grid' infill roof / rooflight to the courtyard of the Sir David Bell Building at Roehampton University. With the main atria designed with a 3° pitch leading to an integrated 30° angle, this unusual shaped glass roof consists of an array of 59 triangular and square shaped glass panels.

Style recently revolutionized the new London office of global law firm, Baker McKenzie, with the installation of multiple moveable wall systems. The project, designed with architect Hassell and contractor Mace Interiors, enhances space flexibility in a multifunction area and on the terrace floor which boasts expansive city views.In the multifunction space, Style installed three Skyfold vertically rising walls and a Dorma Huppe Variflex ComfortDrive glazed wall. This innovative combination creates a self-contained room in an open plan area and is the first time Style has used Skyfolds to abut the ends of a glass moveable wall, with a third Skyfold further dividing the space.On level 11, a semi-automatic Dorma Huppe glazed wall transforms the terrace area into a private dining or meeting space, without obstructing the vista. Elsewhere, Style installed two more glazed Variflex moveable walls and three solid Variflex walls, enhancing the adaptability of the company’s meeting suites, making this a truly adaptable office.With 70 international offices, Baker McKenzie provides a wide range of legal and tax services and the new London office, at 280 Bishopsgate, is a key hub in their network. Prioritizing a culture that promotes collaboration, the office has been designed with intelligent workspace that aims to enhance employee and client engagement. “To divide the multifunctional space, the fully automatic glass Variflex slides across to form the outer periphery of the conference room, creating a new corridor with pass doors,” explains Michael Porter, Style’s managing director. “The two Skyfolds then descend automatically from the ceiling to form the end walls with a final Skyfold being lowered from within the ceiling cavity in the middle of the room to further sub-dividing the area.”“As a fully automated solution this configuration of moveable walls delivers some serious wow-factor as they move into position,” said Porter. “This is not only a highly dynamic space solution but a real showcase in office design too.”The Skyfolds in the conference room offer phenomenal 60dB acoustic ratings whilst the glazed moveable walls provide a 52dB rating, ensuring meetings and client functions can take place in complete privacy when the walls are in place.

Circle Square is an exciting new neighbourhood in the heart of Manchester.Working with Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, we developed a bespoke colour to reflect the Victorian heritage of the surrounding red brick buildings. We also worked with the specialist contractor to design the tile configuration which was incorporated into pre-fabricated offsite fully glazed units.

The IQL in the International Quarter (TIQ) is London’s most dynamic and innovative business neighbourhood. A destination where people and organisations come together to encourage creativity, promote curiosity and embrace change for good. The TIQ area covers fully occupied buildings and have glazed-in DucoWall 20V louvres installed, combining intensive ventilation with an aesthetically pleasing design.

Meeting a quartet of criteria, Kawneer’s AA®110 SSG (Structurally Silicone Glazed) and AA®100 capped aluminium curtain walling almost completely wraps the new £25 million Citylabs 2.0 development within the Oxford Road Corridor innovation district in Manchester, at the gateway to Europe’s largest clinical-academic campus.

EH Smith worked with CZWG Architects to develop a bespoke mauve coloured ceramic rainscreen. We are able to match any RAL colour in glazed tiles, so the exact colour that was desired was achieved.We were also able to work with the specialist contractors on the project to design a bespoke engineered support system to accommodate the unique geometry of the façade.

Grimsby based fabricators Fabrique Specialist Glazing were a perfect choice to complete all the fenestration needs for a brand new Holiday Inn Express in Grimsby Town Centre. Fabrique approached their aluminium supplier Kestrel Aluminium Systems to assist them with the project and the two companies worked in partnership for the entire project, from product specification to delivery.

With views overlooking central Manchester from several floors up, the designers for this workspace have utilised glazed partitions throughout to maximise the transfer of light and make the most of the stunning backdrop offered by the city skyline.London Wall was approached to provide a glass moving wall system that could seamlessly integrate in to the overall design of the space by matching the proposed glass partitions, while offering space flexibility.Our Type G200 system was the perfect choice, with a crittal effect indention to the static panels on show elsewhere within the space. The glazed panels can quickly and easily be stacked, allowing staff the choice between a single, large open plan space or two smaller spaces.When the panels are in use, the two spaces both remain easily accessible thanks to a lockable pass door. Type G200’s impressive acoustic performance ensures that sound transfer between the two spaces is kept to a minimum, therefore reducing noise distraction and increasing privacy.

In order to visually integrate the new three-storey clinic building with a usable floor space of 10,000 m² in its environment characterised by small-sized housing units and green areas, Murphy Phillips Architects in co-operation with the colour designer Frances Tobin developed an own colour concept taking into account the psychological effect of colours.An integral part of this concept is approximately 3,500 ceramic panels and 2,000 ceramic rectangular tubes glazed on all four sides with a cross-section of 60 x 60mm and lengths of up to 1,200mm, which were vertically installed in front of the curved glass facades of the access areas like a filigree curtain.An innovative solution was required to achieve the faceted baguette screen which led to a bespoke support structure being developed with our partners at Systea Pohl Gmbh. The six green and blue shades exactly defined by the planners were specially developed for this project in the glaze laboratory of AGROB BUCHTAL after extensive test series.

With views overlooking central Manchester from several floors up, the designers for this workspace have utilised glazed partitions throughout to maximise the transfer of light and make the most of the stunning backdrop offered by the city skyline.London Wall was approached to provide a glass moving wall system that could seamlessly integrate in to the overall design of the space by matching the proposed glass partitions, while offering space flexibility.Our Type G200 system was the perfect choice, with a crittal effect indention to the static panels on show elsewhere within the space. The glazed panels can quickly and easily be stacked, allowing staff the choice between a single, large open plan space or two smaller spaces.When the panels are in use, the two spaces both remain easily accessible thanks to a lockable pass door. Type G200’s impressive acoustic performance ensures that sound transfer between the two spaces is kept to a minimum, therefore reducing noise distraction and increasing privacy.

Originally built in the 1930s, 33 Colston Street had been home to Bristol’s YMCA hostel until the freehold was bought by the University of Bristol in 2009. The university then carried out a £6 million refurbishment programme to provide 121 study bedrooms and communal areas for students, undergoing a complete refurbishment prior to accepting students for the first time in 2011.Smart Alitherm Heritage windows were specified for the project, the lines exactly matching the original steel windows that had been a feature of the building’s design. The upper floor casement windows were installed in a white polyester powder coated finish, and incorporated acoustic night vents to help maintain air flow while keeping external noise out of the building. Smart also supplied its Smart Wall framing system and entrance doors for the ground floor (in a brown finish) with the glazed panels featuring a unique selection of ‘etched’ drawings depicting various local scenes. The whole glazing scheme helped contribute to the achievement of a BREEAM rating of ‘Very Good’.

PROJECT OVERVIEW Named after Ray Dolby, a PhD alumnus of Cambridge University, former fellow of Pembroke College, inventor and founder of Dolby, the a/v company, the new facility was designed in Revit by nbbj and is being delivered in BIM by Bouygues UK. Co-funded by Dolby, it will create a centre for innovation, bringing together the academic and research capabilities of the university’s physics department with private sector R&D projects.OUR SCOPE WORK Norwood is delivering a £1.9 million package that includes custom-design, manufacture and installation of the £200K, 2.85m high fire-rated glazed wall. The company’s remit also includes a 2500m2 walk-on ceiling with a 100kg/1200mm2 load capacity to enable ease of maintenance. Norwood is also responsible for design, manufacture and installation of a cleanroom partitioning system totalling 4080m2. For this element of the project, the Norwood team designed a bespoke version of the company’s standard 1000mm modular cleanroom partitioning system to meet the required 1200mm specification, and developed a bespoke T-bolt system to enable customisation of the cleanroom facilities for evolving occupier requirements throughout the lifecycle of the building.The fire-rated glazed wall was designed and manufactured by Norwood and independently tested by UKAS-accredited fire safety services specialist, Warringtonfire, to ensure 60-minute fire integrity and insulation . With each glazed panel weighing 200kg, the installation was meticulously orchestrated by Norwood. The installation will showcase the work being carried out in each of the cleanroom spaces as visitors enter the building via the atrium, with blackout blinds installed to enable any commercially sensitive projects to be hidden from view where required.

Fircroft House in Essex has been completely transformed from a tired 1980s detached property into a distinctive home with a contemporary edge.Renovated throughout, Fircroft House features a new ground floor extension, pale grey timber-effect external cladding (replacing a brick and render façade), and brand new Rationel alu-clad windows and doors. In fact, sixteen new windows are installed across the property, including opening and fixed units, two large sliding patio doors, and a solid, grooved front door flanked by glazed side lights and set beneath an arched portico. When planning the refurbishment of Fircroft House, window and door replacement was a project priority, as the original property had single glazed, leaded, all-timber windows which made the interior very dark and were thermally inefficient. All-aluminium glazing was initially considered because the homeowners wanted an affordable, durable and contemporary frame design which looked more attractive than uPVC. They changed their mind, however, when they saw Rationel AURAPLUS alu-clad windows installed at a friend’s home: ‘The idea of a frame which combined timber and aluminium was very appealing,’ they say. ‘It offered the best of both worlds with hardwearing aluminium outside and thanks to the wood, a more tactile finish to the inner frames, so we decided to find out more.’ The homeowners are delighted with their new windows and doors and would happily recommend Rationel: ‘We are very impressed with the package offered by Rationel,’ they say. ‘The windows and doors are all high quality, low maintenance and look great, and the service we received from okoHaus was amazing from start to finish.’