"steel"

CBRE wanted to replace their existing automatic doors at the front and rear of their newly refurbished building with stylish doors which are safe, reliable and ensured effortless pedestrian flow. Two record K41 stainless steel four-leaf revolving doors constructed from glass to provide a modern, minimalistic look were installed. A stainless steel swing door complete with a record DFA 127 operator has also been installed next to revolving door at the main entrance to provide a wider opening for disabled access and deliveries of large, bulky items to the premises.

This long run of railings brought with it a number of manufacturing challenges and techniques. They needed to be curved in profile so they form a quayside post, curving and leaning inwards so they do not make a 'natural ladder' beside the water. The panels themselves are manufactured in mild steel, finished galvanised and then painted in satin finished graphite grey. The top rails are of a contrasting polished finished grade 316 stainless steel, finished satin brushed. The run of railings has a combination of straight and curved panels, meaning each individual horizontal infill bar needed to be curved individually.

This major expansion of the deep-water container terminal at Liverpool docks would significantly increase the footprint and capacity of the site. The site handles the world’s largest container ships and connects road, rail and canal networks directly to the heart of the UK mainland. As part of this project, external concrete surfacing was needed that would deliver long term resistance to the high volumes of HGV traffic using the terminal. After discussions with the contractor, the solution proposed was Tarmac’s TOPFORCE fibre reinforced concrete with a combination of synthetic macro and micro fibres. TOPFORCE can eliminate the need for some traditional steel reinforcement, making it quicker and easier to place. It offers excellent longterm durability making it ideal for commercial and industrial sites used by HGV traffic. This solution would deliver a saving in both labour and material costs and avoid the budget impact of the rising cost of steel. As well as improving the durability and structural performance, the use of macro fibres also improved sustainability significantly by reducing embodied carbon compared to traditional steel reinforcement. 

Ulticolour coloured asphalt was used as part of this striking geometric design for a community space, as part as part of the regeneration of the former Ravenscraig steel works.

Finish: Interpon D2525 Steel Bronze 1 Y2206F Parts coated: Cladding Panels, Balcony Surrounds Architect: Child Graddon Lewis

Finish: Interpon D2525 Portland Stone Y4312I and Steel Bronze 1 Y2206F Parts Coated: Cladding panels, Balconies Fabricator: Sapphire

To meet the project brief, we knew that the steel shelter frame and canopy cover both needed to fit with the on-trend design of the snack pod.

Finish: Interpon D2525 Steel Bronze 2 Y2217F Parts Coated: Rainscreen panels, Architect: Chapman Architects Fabricator: Bailey Applicator: Bailey

Extensive edging was required for the courtyards to delineate hard and soft landscapes. During a site visit, BAM asked us to also supply planters, benches, tiles and accessories for the terraces. This required a full supply and install package. Two 80m walkways were lined with 1.2 x 0.6m Atria tiles. One walkway was built on top of extensive M&E pipework so a bespoke steel pipe cover system was needed to support the tiles. Atria beige tiles were also used on four of the terraces to surround CorTen steel Planterline bespoke planters with inset iroko timber seating.

Brushed stainless steel column casings from the Pendock Radius range are being used to conceal structural steelwork at University College London’s East Campus at Pool Street on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Stratford.Each of the 12 column casings, which are 775mm in diameter and range in height from 3215 to 3370mm, are installed in four external locations on the third level of the university building’s two towers, which function as student relaxation areas.As the column casings are exposed to the elements, their stainless steel construction is an ideal solution as they’re weather resistant, virtually maintenance free and highly durable.

DrillFast stainless composite panel fasteners are the ultimate in reliability, even in the exceptional length required for this project. Drilling heavy steel without fuss, supporting the outer skin impeccably, with the proven longevity of A2/304 stainless steel.The Fixfast maximum reliability, minimum fuss promise extended to more than just the project - the contractor on this project had the certainty that deliveries would be on-site when needed - every time."I always ask the buyers for your fixings - you just don't get any problems with them"Barry Coldren - Project Manager at Prater Ltd

Ancon designed and manufactured the complex stainless steel brick support and restraint system behind the complicated façade of the award-winning LSE Saw Swee Hock Student Centre. The attractive masonry façade uses 175,000 handmade bricks to form both solid and perforated areas. The Ancon stainless steel system comprises special inclined MDC type brick support angles fixed back to 30/20 cast-in channels and bespoke rolled hollow section Windposts, featuring surface-fixed channels to accept wall ties, positioned at mullion locations strategically hidden within the perforated brickwork.

The Portals Hills Boutique Hotel in Mallorca consists of 29 condos and 2 penthouses. Visitors are immediately struck by the flawless white facade and soft, rounded corners. With floor-to-ceiling glazing, extensive balcony and terrace areas overlooking the Mediterranean and an infinity pool, balustrades were a key design element. The balustrade not only needed to provide transparency, but also an ornamental appearance. The Q-line posted railing system ultimately comprises 316-grade stainless steel posts and handrails with delicate steel bar infill running horizontally. For some parts, curved bars were installed.

ASF worked with artist Bernadette Hughes to develop these spectacular products. Highly decorative laser profiled panels were used to make seats, litter bins and signage. The detailed profiles themselves were manufactured in stainless steel plate and then powder coated, to retain the intricate laser cut details that would be lost is the sheets were galvanised after cutting. The outer shapes were then profiled from heavy duty mild steel sheet that was galvanised, and the two sheets mounted cheek by cheek with invisible fixings. The result isa highly visible design that is decorative, strong and has zero finger traps.

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.

Based in Somerset, aerospace company Leonardo's large new logistics hub combines 8 warehouses onto one site, maintaining Leonardo's fleet of helicopters alongside component storage. A range of environmentally friendly features have been included as part of the task to weave sustainable practice into the building: rainwater harvesting tanks, full LED lighting, a heat recovery system, and electric charging points for EVs. This innovative facility translates into reduced operating costs for Leonardo, whilst maximising helicopter component logistics worldwide.ChallengeIndustrial roofing and wall cladding experts ABS Elbrow were contracted for the construction of the building envelope. This included installing the Firth Steels Protex system using A2/304 stainless steel bi-hex moulded MatchFast fasteners in a range of colours, to fix back the twin skin roof and wall construction. SolutionFast to install, with UV resistant colour heads, these fasteners simplify on-site installation: looking good at the same time. MatchFast fasteners are available in 3 grades of steel, including A4/316 grade for maximum corrosion resistance, and with a range of drillpoints to suit a variety of applications - including light and heavy steel, timber, and stitchers for end and side lap details. "This was a large project for us with the added challenge of a fast-paced installation programme. We needed to be sure that we used a reliable supplier that was able to ship large quantities of fixings & mastics etc, at short notice. Fixfast didn't let us down and proved to be an invaluable part of the supply chain."Vince Cook - Contracts Coordinator at ABS Elbrow

This scheme was based around a prestigious new commercial office development which included a public realm space. The goal was to create an attractive outdoor space that would provide a relaxing outdoor environment for workers and serve as a communal space that the general public could also utilise. By diligently selecting a range of design led external furniture items from Artform Urban Furniture, the completed project has resulted in a sophisticated and popular external space that enhances the local area and will be enjoyed by a wide variety of people for many years to come.The Box Litter Bin is a popular option from Artform due to its flexible design options. The main structure is manufactured from a robust 6mm thick sheet with various options for the door finish. From the most popular timber-clad versions to Steel rods, and solid or laser-cut steel plate. For Wellington Place, the solid steel door with integrated ashtray was chosen with the addition of customised decals that coordinate with the area's recognisable branding. The design is simple and robust making it perfect in a whole host of external spaces. 

A private landowner wanted to develop a large multi-purpose agricultural facility for both arable and potential livestock use at their farm in Leicestershire. Part of the requirement was external surfacing, which would need to be hard wearing and deliver long lasting durability in this demanding environment, including regular use by heavy agricultural vehicles. After discussions with the contractor, the solution proposed was Tarmac’s TOPFORCE fibre reinforced concrete with a combination of synthetic macro and micro fibres. TOPFORCE is a fibre reinforced, high performance concrete, that eliminates the need for some traditional reinforcement. Quicker and easier to place than traditional steel mesh reinforced concrete, TOPFORCE concrete offers excellent long-term durability and performance. This makes it ideal for heavy duty flooring or hardstanding applications. This solution would deliver a saving in both labour and material costs and avoid the budget impact of the rising cost of steel. As well as improving the durability off the finished concrete, the use of macro fibres would also improve sustainability significantly by reducing embodied carbon compared to traditional steel reinforcement. 

THE PROJECTThe Avant-garde project features multiple banks of mailboxes that include both vertical and horizontal mail types. The mailboxes used in the project were produced using our high-quality Stainless Steel material with a 316L grade finish.The banks of mailboxes are divided between wall mounted and freestanding installation, providing a solution for a project where the available space is limited. The banks of freestanding mailboxes were mounted upon a support frame custom designed for the project to provide a secure and stable base for the banks.All banks in the project are situated in a finish surround created using American White Oak Veneer with a Wenge Stain to enhance the look and feel of the location.The Avant-garde project is based in the trendy urban London hotspot Shoreditch, and required the mailboxes to be of the very highest quality to enhance the mail reception area.PROJECT DETAILSProject Type: Private AccommodationProduct: Stainless Steel 1 (Vertical) Mailbox | Stainless Steel 2 (Horizontal) MailboxInstallation: Freestanding Accessories :American White Oak Veneer Surround, Engraving

Finish: Interpon D2525 Steel Blue Platinum Y2207I Parts coated: Rainscreen Cladding Architect: Sheppard Robson Fabricator: Sotech Applicator: Specialist Coatings

Finish: Interpon D2525 Steel Bronze 1 Y2206F Parts coated: Windows & Surrounds Architect: FUSE Fabricator: Premo Fabrications Applicator: Specialist Coatings

Comfortable seating created from FSC timber and galvanised steel has helped to create a welcoming public space around Waltham Forest Town Hall.

Finish: Interpon D2525 Steel Bronze 1 Y2206F Parts coated: Windows, railings Architect: Stanton Williams Fabricator: Glassolutions Applicator: Architectural Powder Coatings

A three year construction project in Knightsbridge required a temporary green roof on welfare huts. The local residents were concerned about overlooking these steel huts long-term. The solution is M-Tray® – our modular green roof system. The steel huts were wheeled into position on site on skates. They were covered with an EPDM waterproofing membrane. M-Tray® units were installed. They were easily carried up the stairs by hand and installed by hand within minutes. The modular and portable M-Tray® can just be unclicked and lifted away upon completion of the construction process.

This 115m² project was a large luxury new-build. The decking required two distinct build-up methods around the house. One section was on a waterproofing membrane, the other on a steel framed walkway. Adjustable support pedestals were loose-laid onto the membrane. iDecking aluminium rail system was set onto the pedestals and EasyClick boards were clicked into place. Pedestals lifted the decking structure off the membrane allowing free drainage and creating a level surface on the falling roof. Aluminium rails were mechanically fixed to the steel structure and the whole terrace was set to one, seamless level wrapping around the house.

Architect Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners specified Howe Green when they required a unique, reliable access solution for the WCEC. Howe Green designed and manufactured a circular access cover in 316-grade stainless steel. The bespoke cover offered a stylish and discreet solution, capable of withstanding 40kn load and meeting the specification for aesthetics and performance. Each box section of the cover had built-in cable access and voice/data plug-in points. Slotted steel lids were made for when services were in use. The access covers also accept coloured polished concrete inserts made to match the surrounding Ed Lazenby floor.

Architect Hawkins\Brown specified Howe Green 7500 Series Medium Duty Stainless Steel Floor Access Covers for one of the office spaces within BT Sport located at Here East, the new digital quarter for East London. The covers were required to address the challenge of easily and safely accessing drainage junctions located beneath a raised floor system in the corridors of the building. The 7500 Series were specified with stainless steel Z profiles to provide additional support to the access cover within the raised floor. The access covers were initially covered with plywood and then infilled with a vinyl flooring finish.

Ceramic tiling contractors P.Plunkett recommended Howe Green Medium Duty 7500 Series 316 Grade Stainless Steel Floor Access Covers as a reliable and safe solution for accessing the pool sumps and pool balance tanks located beneath the tiling in the pool areas at East Riding Leisure Centre. Nine 7500 Series access covers were fitted into the ceramic tiled floor around the pool surround and infilled with antislip porcelain floor tiles to provide a flush finish, that is functional and aesthetically pleasing. The 316 grade stainless steel cover is non-corrosive and will not rust, even in a swimming pool environment.

Network RailStation Refit SeatingStreet furniture | Railway seatingPlatform seatingWhen Network Rail extended the platforms at Derby station, the contractors Galliford Try worked with Townscape to design and fit the extended platform with Townscape Voltan seating.This versatile scheme shows a range of seating elements include PRM seating, 3 and 4 person seating, perch seating and Stainless steel bump rails.Product featured: Voltan Multi-Single 4 Seater Mild Steel Seat – Zinc Plated Polyester Powder Coated Finish in a Standard Range Colour with a Pedestal Leg (On or Below Ground Fix) Fitted as Standard.

The task was to replace old wooden floor planks with modern, robust, weatherproof and slip-resistant steel flooring and stair treads that met all the customer’s requirements pertaining to load. In particular, the customer was keen to reduce the strain on workers during both dismantling and assembly. Furthermore, it was also necessary to reduce the noise pollution which occurred when working with metal against metal.The solutionIn cooperation with our customer, the customer’s assembly teams and our product development department, solutions were developed that met the above requirements.User safetyOne of the main challenges which had to be addressed in the customer specification was the requirement for a slip-resistant surface. Here we were able to incorporate a surface design based on our PcP OPTIMO® O2 surface, which has already been used for a wide range of projects worldwide. OPTIMO® O2 is certified according to R13/V10 slip-resistance and meets the strict demands to slip-resistance. OPTIMO® O2 grating discreetly improves safety for visitors during an event while also improving handling for the installation team.With a very small surface perforation of only Ø 5/9 mm, people frightened of heights are unable to look down directly through the platform on which they are standing, thereby guaranteeing a sense of security. Furthermore, this profiling solution offers perfect drainage, ensuring that the floors always remain dry.Combining aluminium and steel – a lightweight solutionFor the system flooring, a combination of aluminium and hot-dip galvanised steel was chosen to reduce weight without compromising capacity. For example, the gratings used for floors and treads were supplied in aluminium and screwed together with high-strength steel end pieces to form a complete unit. This reduced the weight of the components, and provided a significant ergonomic advantage compared to the wooden planks which had been used to date.Reducing noise pollutionDespite the considerable weight reduction from using individual components, another challenge presented itself. Some of the treads and platforms on the metal substructure produced considerable rattling noises. However, even this challenge was overcome with a slightly unconventional method. By installing small oak blocks in the steel end pieces, the fixing points were tightened on the substructure, which significantly reduced the rattling noises.The resultThe customised solution combined steel and aluminium PcP products to provide extremely safe gratings for system floors and stairs for mobile and stationary grandstands. The solution is more ergonomic, lighter and meets the high requirements for safety and load bearing.Furthermore, it meets the overall objective of ensuring safe events for visitors. A successful event relies on the successful implementation of grandstand systems.

Finish: Interpon D2525 Steel Bronze 2 Y2217F Parts Coated: Windows, cladding panels Architect: Patel Taylor Fabricator: Sotech/ Hueck Applicator: Specialist Coatings

Soleco Steel Door Frames have been successfully installed in numerous buildings worldwide. You will find further information on the sites where these frames have been implemented here.

AFD supplied our Indigo Raised Access Floor system to a Data Centre in Central London This system is tested to PSA MOB PF/2, classed as "heavy grade" The Indigo HGEB features: 700kg/m3 highly recycled 100% FSC wood core centreTop & Bottom steel sheetsFinished in static dissipative Polyflor Steel GreyThis install features: Pedestals & snap on stringer at 600mm voidIndigo Heavy Duty - Opposed Blade Air Grille Resulting in a high performance, fully accessible raised access floor with a static dissipative finish or air grille suitable to protect equipment from static discharge & aid air cooling

Product: Interpon D2525 Steel Bronze 1 Y2206F Parts Coated: Cladding panels, balustrades Architect: Grid Architects Fabricator: Fusion Facades Applicator: C&O Powder Coatings

Finishes: Interpon D2525 Mars YX3555, Steel Blue Gray 715 Y2215F, Bespoke D2525 Corten, Copper Parts Coated: Rainscreen panels, Architect: Broadway Malyan Fabricator: Sippral

Cladding of the newly constructed RVH maternity unit in Belfast, using Spanwall’s own RF50 Rainscreen system the new Maternity unit will be clad with a combination of 2mm Corten Steel and 1mm zinc