"landscaping"

Project Name: AMRC - Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre North WestLocation: Samlesbury, LancashireMain Contractor: Cartwright PickardCompletion Date: 2021Total Cost: £11mServices Provided: RIBA stages 1-6, Architectural DesignAwards Received:Finalist in BCO Northern AwardsBest Commercial Development in the North West at RICS AwardShortlisted for Project of the Year at Construction News AwardsLancashire Project of the Year at North West Construction AwardsSystem Supplied: Bespoke Fabrications, LandMark I, SnapLok Capping, Soffits, Window LinersFusion Facades, along with AMS Cladding Limited and the supply chain, provided a high-quality facade for the University of Sheffield's Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre North West (AMRC) project. Despite the challenges posed by the global pandemic, Fusion Facades was able to adapt and deliver exceptional service.The AMRC is located at the entrance to the Samlesbury Aerospace Enterprise Zone and features a modern workspace with a flexible high-tech workshop. To blend the 48,000 sqft building into the rural surroundings, lightweight bronze metal cladding was used over a landscaped bund.As a flagship research centre for advanced manufacturing, the AMRC had to meet the highest environmental standards. The office and seminar rooms feature horizontal glazing slots with projecting cappings and perimeter framing for passive solar shading. Reflective solid panels are used within the curtain walls to reduce solar gain while retaining the articulated openings that distinguish the office and seminar rooms from a nearby main road.A neutral colour was chosen to catch the warm tones of the morning and evening light while subtly defining the different internal uses. To break down the mass, junctions between the sheets are articulated with bronze fins denoting where the structural grid occurs internally.Overall, the AMRC project has received numerous accolades and is a testament to the outstanding work done by Fusion Facades and their partners in delivering a high-quality, environmentally sustainable research facility.

3900m2 Optima TFC in PPC Aluminium and 1800sqm Optima FC in Axalta PPC Aluminium have been used in the completion of the 400+ room in Salfords student accommodation project. The Optima TFC system was proposed to create a ‘basket weave’ pattern to the façade including a mixture of both landscape and portrait lay orientation, visible in the project photos.The Optima FC included multi-depth panels to create a 3D effect along with secret fix assembled triangle segments to further emphasize the projection.When you stand back from the building, you can see the two separate towers seem to connect ‘through’ each other.The expert team at Sotech worked closely with Britplas Facades and their team of specialists to design the unique façade, ensuring it was both viable and achievable to the installation programme. As a team, we developed a method to secret fix the triangular sections onto standard panels at our fabrication facility, to reduce the quantity of parts the installer would have to handle.No additional testing was required for the project as Optima TFC and Optima FC have been extensively tested and are approved by CWCT and have been tested to BS8414-2 (compliant to BR135).Jamie Brown, Estimating Manager at Sotech said: “This is a truly unique, vibrant and striking building. It was a real pleasure to have been involved in this scheme from concept to completion working closely with our supply chain partner, Britplas Facades, to develop a solution that ticked all the boxes – cost, programme and exceptional quality.”Discovery Quays includes 404 student bedrooms over 10,325 sqft in two blocks. The finished building also provides a coffee shop, library, lounge, media wall, gaming area and a stunning double-story reception.To find out more about how the expert team at Sotech can assist in your next rainscreen cladding project, click here.

More than 5,000 m² in porcelain stoneware for Germany’s largest leisure pool – Villeroy & Boch tiles in the Stegermatt Swimming Pool in OffenburgSport, wellness and leisure spanning more than 10,000 m² – the largest leisure pool in Germany, Stegermatt Swimming Pool in Offenburg, opened in late July 2017. Along with an outdoor area with 50-metre swimming pool, wave slide and adventure pool, indoor visitors can look forward to a fitness courses pool, a teaching pool, a diving pool with two diving platforms and a 25-metre competition pool. The sauna landscape comprises a variety of saunas, a steam bath and a cold-water area with adventure showers and a plunge pool. The developers for the project were the City and Technical Operations of Offenburg. 4a Architekten of Stuttgart were the architects in charge of planning for the project. The tiling work, with a volume of EUR 2.5 million, was performed by the Freiburg subsidiary of Fliesen Röhlich GmbH; with a staff of around 300 professional layers of tile and natural stone, the company is considered the largest tile specialist in Germany. For an entire year, this major project in Offenburg had 15 employees working constantly, increasing to 25 in peak periods. As a result, in spite of at times difficult weather conditions, the work was completed on time.  With the exception of the swimming pools themselves, the entire bathing level, including the changing rooms in the interior of the facility, was designed in the X-PLANE range of vilbostone porcelain stoneware by Villeroy & Boch Tiles. The range features a trendy concrete look with fine colour gradations. Spanning an area of 5,000 m², cream-coloured tiles in the two modular formats of 30 x 60 cm and 15 x 60 cm were laid in a brickwork-effect pattern, creating a space with a harmonious and at the same time vibrant look. Another approx. 600 m² of matching mosaic tiles were also used. With the special 5 x 5 cm format and a slip-resistance class of R10 they are suitable for use in shower areas.

Unity Square, NottinghamPAS68 seating and plantersStreet furniture | Street Planters | HVMTownscape Products has recently completed the hard landscaping for the Unity Square scheme in Nottingham.Unity Square forms a major part of Nottingham’s southern gateway regeneration project, which includes work to create a new-look Intu Broadmarsh centre, central library, bus station and car park.The hub was forward funded by LGIM Real Assets (Legal & General) and will accommodate HM Revenue and Customs’ (HMRC) new regional centre. The building now comprises of ten storeys and is due to open in late 2021. As the cornerstone of the redevelopment work taking shape across the city’s Southside, Unity Square will truly put Nottingham on the map once complete.”The site will eventually house up to 4,000 HMRC employees. Nicole Newbury, HMRC director and a senior sponsor for the Nottingham Regional Centre, East Midlands Region, said:“We can’t wait to move into our new regional centre. The new building is so much more than just bricks and mortar, it represents an exciting opportunity for us to utilise new technology and develop collaborative, new ways of working.Unity Square is one of ten regional hubs Legal & General has invested in to support the government’s efforts to modernise the civil service and save taxpayers’ money. Its investment in the programme crossed the £1.5bn mark last year. This scheme in Nottingham is particularly ground-breaking not only because of its size and central location but for its potential to transform the city centre, driving regional economic growth and supporting job creation.Working with Bowmer and Kirkland, a range of PAS 68 rated seating and planters were designed, manufactured, and integrated into the scheme.Finished in charcoal prestige, the concrete units were designed to complement the paving finishes.For more details of how we can help with your PAS68 requirements, please get in touch.

DUCO contributes with sun protection to the £78m project for The University of Manchester. The architectural sun control DucoSun Ellips 200 mm, supplied by Contrasol, was chosen for the Fallowfield campus. The solar shading is so much more than decoration.About the Fallowfield CampusThe Fallowfield is a student accommodation with 8 multi-storey blocks including a Warden’s flat and Energy Centre, amenity hub, landscaping and external works. Each residence will have 10 bedrooms per floor with ensuite bathroom pods and a shared kitchen. 1,122 student rooms are spread over the blocks with a combined floor area of 32,020m2. The Fallowfield Campus is the main residential campus of the University of Manchester. It’s a vibrant place where thousands of students live alongside residents – creating e a real sense of community. The mix of shops, cafes, bars and a frequent bus service to and from the city centre makes it an ideal location to live.Construction detailsThe blocks are constructed using pre-fabricated lightweight steel framing system panels which provide structure to the building when used along with composite concrete floors. External materials are predominantly buff brickwork with feature elevations picked out in charcoal fibre cement slate roofing and cladding. Study bedrooms incorporate built-in storage and furnishings and a high specification pre-fabricated GRP en-suite shower pod.  Solar shading is much more than decorationThe vertical solar shading system DucoSun Ellips was chosen for this project and supplied by Contrasol. This solar shading system, in which a blade with of 200 mm was chosen, guarantees not only maximum daylight, thanks to the optimal inclination angle and number of louvre blades. At the same time, DucoSun Ellips 200 ensures that the sun’s rays do not get a chance to heat up the Fallowfield interior spaces directly. The vertically installed solar shading system offers maximum privacy while maintaining the view outside.

Challenge Paving and flagstone products from the Netherlands were specified in the project plans for this regeneration of Dublin City University’s outdoor, communal areas and footpaths.Additional transport costs and CO2 emissions were involved in the project as the products were being shipped from the Netherlands.Solution - AG explained to the Landscape architect, it could produce bespoke paving and flagstone products with a similar finish to those already specified, and the products would be durable, available in various colours and sizes, and produced sustainability.AG created a display sample using Plaza paving and TerraPave® flagstones. The architect was satisfied with the finish and changed the specification – choosing AG’s products.By using a local supplier, like AG, the client received a greener and cost-effective solution as transport costs and CO2 emissions were reduced.AG supplied 6,500m2 of bespoke Plaza paving and 1,000m2 of TerraPave® flagstones during phase one of this project. In phase two an additional 1,000m2 of Plaza paving was supplied.AG’s Plaza paving is available in 11 colour blends and in a variety of colour intensities, depths and formats. Its surface is formed from natural granite aggregates giving it is durability. Its production uses several recycled materials, 90% of harvested rain and 100% renewable energy. It also has an excellent slip resistance rating and is a colour-fast product.TerraPave® is an aesthetically attractive and durable flagstone that uses the finest granite and quartz aggregates from around Europe to create its top layer. In both ground and textured finishes, TerraPave® is available in ten colours that complement AG’s Plaza paving – each produced with natural aggregates to ensure long-term colourfastness. With its range of depths and sizes and slip resistance quality – it’s a cost effective and a practical alternative to traditional stone paving.This project commenced in November 2018 and was completed in November 2019. The order value to AG was approximately €260,000 and AG was able to supply the products within the budget and timeline specified in the plan.

Queen Mary’s Grammar school located in Walsall, West Midlands is one of the oldest schools in the country and proud of its traditions having been founded in 1554 by Mary Tudor. Now a member of the Mercian Multi-Academy Trust, the school is committed to shaping a new and exciting learning landscape for current and future students. The school was looking for a solution to turn an outside dining area into a covered space students could use year-round. The area situated between school buildings was formerly an old car park converted into a playground, and was often unusable during inclement weather with the added problem of standing rainwater.A range of canopy designs are available to cover spaces like this, and after discussing design concepts with the school, Streetspace installed a stunning 20m x 8m ORION Barrel vault tensile membrane canopy, providing shade from the sun, UV protection and cover from the rain. The soft membrane fabric helps to create an ambient environment while also absorbing the sounds of rain, voices and echo. To overcome the standing water concerns, aluminium guttering and downpipes matching the structure were added, allowing rainwater to flow off the canopy and into the existing drains.The new dining area presents an impressive and stylish seating area for students and staff alike. The aesthetically pleasing blue steel frame and Ocean Blue canopy, coupled with the symmetric form and clean minimalist design means the structure integrates seamlessly with the adjacent buildings, and makes good use of this valuable outdoor space. The one piece PVC fabric membrane means no joins to attract dirt and is combined with a PVDF surface coating to stop dirt getting ingrained and help reduce maintenance.The Barrel Vault design provides a wide, clear-span area with the tall centreline helping to maximise the sense of space. The space therefore benefits from minimal obstruction, creating free flow of movement and a flexible covered area that can be used for a wide range of different applications.

Doncaster Council sought out to develop a new leisure destination that complements the existing attractions in the nearby lakeside area.The new £7.7m retail park is a new destination where people can enjoy restaurants and leisure facilities next to the existing VUE cinema at the popular Lakeside in Doncaster.This development includes Europe’s first-ever Drive-Thru Dunkin’ Donuts, as well as a mix of local and national fast food outlets. These buildings are surrounded by service yards and 181 parking spaces, nine of which are electric car charging points.The green potential for the Herten Triangle was high on the agenda. The space includes sustainably-sourced timber-clad elevations, solar PV arrays, over 5000 plants and shrubs and 120 trees.Working with Willmott Dixon as the main contractor, Smeeden Foreman delivered hard and soft landscape designs for the external works for this new development.A whole host of Marshalls products were used for this project to help bring a modern and appealing feel to the complex. Modal textured in Light Granite, Anthracite Granite, Silver Grey Granite, Indian Granite and Mid Grey Granite were used in the light trafficked areas around the buildings. Saxon paving in Natural was used on the pathways in the social areas. Keyblok in Natural, Charcoal, Brindle and our White Marker blocks were used for the car parking bays. All of the above were installed alongside Conservation X and British Standard kerbs and edging, as well as Blister Paving for crossing areas.Neil Tyler the Senior Build Manager at Willmott Dixon had this to say:“The service provided by Marshalls was excellent, particularly with the quantities of paving required in a relatively short period of time. The quality of finish and dimensional accuracy of the products is also very good, and was recognised by all involved.”All manufactured in mainland UK, the products have provided a functional and aesthetic outcome for this retail space that is perfect for the public to use and enjoy.Imagery: Marshalls and some supplied from Smeeden Foreman

A modern and green Mixed-Use project where people can live, work, shop, and play.  Oval Village is a major regeneration project in the South of London. It will include modern apartments, many new work opportunities, and aim to re-green the area resulting in better biodiversity.The first phase includes the apartment blocks Phoenix Court, Juniper Gardens and The Pinnacle offering modern homes with one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments. Between the buildings, landscaped gardens will offer room for relaxation and some of the buildings also provide access to private roof terraces. Residents will have a magnificent view over the Kia Oval cricket stadium and London’s iconic skyline. The project includes many sustainable initiatives such as attenuation rainwater tanks and recycled rainwater irrigation of green areas. A site-wide district heating network connected to solar panels and a super modern ventilation system shall secure low energy use whilst providing optimal indoor climate control. The space saving FloSet® Compact valve set is installed on each apartment’s FCU to handle heating and cooling duties. The FloSet® Compact was chosen as it is the smallest FCU valve set in the market for pressure independent automatic balancing and flow control. Each FloSet® Compact includes a FlowCon By-Pass Mini with only a 40 mm center distance, a FlowCon Venturi Metering Station, and a FlowCon PICV. The valve set is fitted directly over the FCU drip tray. The valve set offers 5 different operation modes. These include normal operation, back flushing, forward flushing, coil isolation/system flush and full isolation. The FlowCon PICV insert solution provides flexibility in all project stages from selection, setting and commissioning to servicing. All-together a compact and smart solution providing optimal indoor comfort, reduced energy consumption and a better building CO2 footprint.

Following the specification process with the London office of Planit-IE Landscape Architects, Artform Urban Furniture were appointed by Vastint UK to provide a considerable number of bespoke concrete benches alongside street furniture elements including litter bins, cycle parking and picnic sets to a newly built neighbourhood in the east of London. At the time one of the largest residential developments in Europe.The bespoke concrete block benches, some of which are clad in hardwood toppers, were designed and manufactured specifically for this project, echoing the light reflective architecture of the newly built studios and apartments. Great lengths were taken to find the perfect mix of aggregates to achieve the specifiers preferred colour mix and match paving being used on site. Sample blocks in the concrete and granite were supplied with & without timber toppers to make sure all stakeholders were happy with the final look/ colour. Stainless steel cycle stands are abundantly scattered around the car-free space, encouraging a peaceful and emission free environment. Likewise the sophisticated minimal design of the Spencer litter bin reflects the surrounding ambiance whilst keeping the area clean and tidy.The 26 acre project to revitalise this once-crumbling industrial site began back in 2013. Garnering widespread attention for its simplistic and sustainable design.The entire neighbourhood is divided into 13 plots, each designed by one of nine different architects.The Dane’s Yard area is the first completed phase of the Vastint UK master plan in bringing a brand new neighbourhood to London. The name of the area, Strand East, was changed to Sugar House Island in 2017 with Vastint looking for a name that has stronger ties to the community and its history. The sentiment is evident throughout the project in the refurbishing of old warehouse buildings, yards, and alleyways.Once completed in 2024 Sugar House Island will feature more than 624,000 square feet of office space, 1,200 homes, and nearly 131,000 square feet of green space. Developers have also made room for new restaurants, cafés, shops, a primary school, and a 350-bed hotel. Developers expect the project to create 2,500 new jobs.

The purpose:Taylor Wimpey’s Eclipse development was the final phase of the large-scale modernisation and renewal strategy for the London Borough of Walthamstow Forest, known as The Blackhorse Lane Action Plan. Eclipse would offer affordable social and private housing via 500 homes in two six-storey apartment blocks.To help satisfy one of the Plan’s objectives- “to ensure new developments incorporate the highest levels of sustainable design and their impact on climate change is minimised”- we installed green roofs on both blocks. As it was the final development phase, space was limited; time was also an influencing factor in facilitating the tight build programme,avoiding delays, and enabling the client to deliver much-needed new homes.Our solutionTo enable fulfilment of the brief, we recommended our HM-40 Paratech Hot Melt Roofing System as the inverted waterproofing base for the green roof. A fully-bonded system, HM-40 is a robust, durable, and highly flexible monolithic, self-healing hot-melt waterproofing system for protected roofs, green roofs, terraces, and podium decks with a 40-year durability statement. In addition, it is firerated for unrestricted use when covered with a green or ballast roof.Unlike other hot melt systems that use fleeces, the Paratech system incorporates a reinforcement mesh: this allows the system to be rolled out, making waterproofing installation faster, thereby enabling the contractor to lay the top roofing layer of artificial grass and landscaped green roofs. Unfortunately, an on-site compound to store the roofing components was unavailable. We worked closely with T&T Roofing and Taylor Wimpey to ensure deliveries arrived in build sequence for immediate use, but without adversely impacting residents who had already moved into their newhomes.“The features of the flat roof system provided a seamless, issue-free roof installation, with rapid installation time causing minimal disruption. Langley’s technical team was always on hand to provide assistance when necessary, working collaboratively to guarantee a consistent and highquality installation.”

Decimetric stainless steel sinktops, from GEC Anderson, are included within nine separate educational spaces to the newly renovated and highly impressive art building at the prestigious Stowe School in Buckingham.Stowe House was created by Sir Richard Temple in 1676 and over the next century rebuilt into the great classical show house and remarkable landscaped gardens and parkland. In 1923, the house became a school and is now a co-educational independent boarding school for over 750 boys and girls aged 13-18 years.As a consequence of the growing demand for art at Stowe School, and the need for the provision of art and design in one building on the existing site, a £2.5 million renovation and extension project took place. The project, designed by Rick Mather Architects and funded by Lord Sainsbury, transformed a tired 1930s building into a contemporary education space. The Art School now has a modern interior with plenty of extra space to offer facilities for a wide range of curriculum requirements ranging from Fine Art Drawing to Printmaking.Decimetric Classic stainless steel sinktops from GEC Anderson were specified in the Textile Room, Technician's Room, Office Kitchen, Printmaking Room, Dark Room and four Teaching areas to provide practical facilities that were durable, easy to maintain yet also attractive and inspiring to students.Sinktops of differing sizes were included to meet the individual requirements of the activities carried out. The flexible framework of sizes and options of the Decimetric range made for easy and accurate specification and a quick turnaround of the order.The sinktops, all made from professional grade stainless steel, included integral sink bowls and incorporated lipped edges to avoid spillage. The teaching rooms had extra-large sink bowls. Integral splashbacks were specified in certain areas.To bring it up to standard, the building was externally insulated and both ends raised and a staircase put in together with a mezzanine floor to provide extra space. John Morris, Head of Estates said, The original features such as windows have been kept in an effort to respect the existing form of the building.

Marischal Square Bauder Bakor Hot Melt structural waterproofingSynopsisMarischal square is a mixed use complex in the centre of Aberdeen based on the site of the former council headquarters building, St. Nicholas House. In 2011 Muse Developments undertook a £107m redevelopment of the site creating space for two new office buildings, seven restaurants and café bars, a 126-room hotel, a modern civic space and a new public space area in between the new buildings.Bauder Building BoardProject:Marischal SquareLocation:AberdeenRoof Area:5,400m²Client:Muse Development & Morgan SindallApproved Contractor:Briggs AmascoThe specificationWith large parts of the new roofing areas being accessible terraces and areas which will experience a significant amount of foot traffic, the Bauder hot melt structural system was a natural choice. The system was combined with hard and soft landscaping to provide the different aspects of the various terraces, stairways, podium decks and rooftops.The Bauder Hot Melt structural waterproofing system is ideally suited as a waterproofing system beneath paved or ballasted surfacing, car parks, podiums, plazas, green roofs and substructures.Project challengesA key challenge for this project was the fact that Muse Developments and Morgan Sindall, who were working jointly on the development, were looking for a single source waterproofing. Bauder proved to be the perfect fit, covering and delivering all elements of the waterproofing systems.The resultApproved contractor Briggs Amasco carried out the works on the 5,400m² of the separate roof areas, whilst expert Bauder site technicians carried out a total of 26 site visits over the duration of the project to ensure the quality of the installations. Following a final inspection, Bauder was able to issue a 20 year product and workmanship guarantee on the project.System installed1 BauderPLANT E 42Green torch-on root-resistant capping sheet.2 790-11Hot melt rubberised bitumen asphalt with a percentage of post-consumer recycled materials that infills and fully bonds to all minor deviations in the deck.3 DeckPrimed concrete.

C-TEC’s revolutionary new evacuation alert system, EVAC-ALERT, has been specified for a new purpose-built residential building in London.Located in the Elephant and Castle area of the London Borough of Southwark, Joyce Newman House is an 8-storey block of 40 spacious living spaces commissioned by Leathermarket JMB, Southwark’s largest resident-managed housing organisation. The affordable-housing development also features landscaped gardens, an interactive playground and a communal kitchen garden for residents to grow their own vegetables.Specified and supplied by Churches Fire & Security working alongside Blu Electrical Installations Ltd, C-TEC’s EVAC-ALERT has been designed to comply with the new BS 8629, which recommends evacuation alert systems be installed in all new blocks of flats over 18 metres to assist the Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) in evacuating part or all of a building in an emergency.The system consists of a 2-loop control panel connected to a host of single and multi-way interface units, self-testing sounders and visual indicators. Simple and intuitive with manual controls to allow firefighters to easily operate the evacuation alert devices located inside flats on a zone by zone or floor by floor basis, the panel is stored in a secure vandal resistant cabinet which can only be accessed by the FRS using a special copy-protected key.David Collins, Project Manager at Churches Fire & Security, said: “Evacuation alert systems ensure firefighters can alert occupants in a building of the need to evacuate if a fire gets out of control. The EVAC-ALERT system we’ve specified provides peace of mind for residents and, crucially, also demonstrates that building management have taken every precaution possible to protect the people residing in the property. Our client is delighted with the system.”Certified to all relevant EN54 product standards, EVAC-ALERT is powered by C-TEC’s CAST protocol and fully compatible with ENVISION, its powerful new cloud-based remote access data management software which can be used to provide duty holders with a verifiable audit trail of system activity and device testing.

Officially opened in September 2023, Allscott Meads Primary School is primed to become a community hub for the residents of the Telford area.Built on the former Sugar Beet factory site, the new school has capacity for 150 students aged 3-11 and comprises 6 classrooms, a sports hall, kitchen, staff room, storage rooms, offices for 1-1 teaching support and interviews. The grounds of the school also contain an impressive 1.1 acre sports field and hard-surfaced sports court, as well as 40 bike spaces and car parking for staff and visitors. Tegula and Tegula Duo Block Paving were used to create a warm, inviting feel to the external landscaping on this project.  The ChallengeAesthetically pleasing paving options were required to establish a welcoming entrance to the Telford community hub.Following the deterioration of the Sugar Beet Factory that once stood on the site, the vision for Allscott Meads was to create a modern school in a beautiful setting, that would become a hub at the heart of the community. To reach a wide demographic, creating an inviting space was imperative and the use of warm tones were requested for the paving. A retaining wall solution for a small area to one side of the building was necessary to optimise space for parking in a manner that would elevate aesthetic appeal.The SolutionHydropave Tegula Cedar and Bracken were used to compliment the modern building. To create a space where students could flourish and thrive, it was important for the area to feel modern but welcoming. Hydropave Tegula 240 and Hydropave Tegula Duo Block Paving in the homely colours of Cedar and Bracken were ideal products to realise a traditional, warm feel.To reduce flooding and remove harmful pollutants, a sustainable drainage system was implemented through use of Tobermore’s Hydropave products. All walkways and car parking areas were paved, with delineation added so that specific areas were clearly visible. Secura Grand facilitated a seamless, tiered retaining wall solution that enabled additional parking to be added to the grounds, simultaneously increasing aesthetic appeal.

The ChallengeAttractive permeable paving was required for two luxurious rural properties  Kite and Kestrel have been designed to create an agricultural character with a modern appearance. The two luxury homes located a short walk from West Wittering beach, have been carefully designed to remain connected with the locality.  The properties required a complementary paving solution that was functional yet aesthetically pleasing. Paving was required for the two driveways alongside the shared access courtyard. The developer wanted the areas to be clearly differentiated to give each property its own space.  Laying patterns were a useful way to subtly break up the area and give individuality to the properties. Whilst kerbing was required functionally, continuity with the overall modern design needed to be considered.  The developer encountered some difficulties when obtaining planning permission due to the properties high profile and sensitive location. The council’s strong desire to protect the environment of the rural location contributed to the request for a permeable paving solution. The Solution Tobermore’s Hydropave permeable paving was the perfect SuDS solution.   Tobermore provided hard landscape products for the courtyard and driveways to achieve the ‘modern, yet rural’ design brief. Manufactured to create a rustic, aged appearance, Tobermore’s Hydropave Tegula permeable paving brings elegance and charm to the luxury homes. With its ability to function as a SuDS system, choosing to use Hydropave increased the chances for planning permission approval, whilst aligning with the environmental factors considered when designing the properties.  Junnell Homes wanted to subtly separate the driveway area from the courtyard, while maintaining the aesthetic appeal. Hydropave Tegula was chosen for both locations, but with different laying patterns and unit sizes.  A herringbone laying pattern was used for the courtyard, offering an aesthetic appeal and increased trafficability. To ensure continuity of the style, the driveways were also laid with permeable block paving but using duo sizes in a stretcher bond laying pattern, helping to break up the space.  Fusion Kerb offered Junnell Homes a cost-effective, premium kerb with the striking aesthetics of a granite kerb.

The Project Gloucester Business Park, Plot 1420, takes the form of three buildings grouped around a landscape courtyard, the buildings are split into six self-contained units which are sub-divided floor by floor.  Gloucestershire is excellent for transport links & the parks modern and flexible working environment also provides sufficient parking for all employees and visitors Plot 1420 won Kier Central Site of the Quarter for Jan – March 2015. The site scored 100% when externally audited by the BSI for Quality and Environmental Performance.The ChallengeManufacture, deliver and install premium quality system befitting the development and the client’s requirements.Offer complimentary system for use in the shower areas &produce Solid Surface troughs to bespoke lengths, exceeding 3000mm. The SolutionExcelsior Flush 44 Full Height system provides a sleek flush fronted façade delivering the upmost in quality, design and privacy. Complimentary Mariner Cubicles finished in matching laminate installed in the wet areas. 12mm Solid Grade Laminate is recommended for shower enclosures the core material is manufactured with phenolic resins which ensures the self-supporting panels are impervious to water penetration and will stand the test of time against water/moisture ingressAll Cubicles and Vanities are finished in Oak Classic High-Pressure Laminate along with a Corian Vanity Top in Designer White. All working to complement each other and deliver a harmonious natural colour scheme generating a tranquil & calming atmosphereNick Flexen-Cook at Kier Construction has said – “Plot 1420 was delivered by the best, highest performing team that I have ever been privileged to be a part of. The tenant is rightly delighted with their facility which exceeds their expectations.”SpecificationProduct Range: MarinerDoors: 12mm Compact SGL Sonae Oak Classic M3817Pilaster: 12mm Compact SGL Sonae Oak Classic M3817Partition: 12mm Compact SGL Sonae Oak Classic M3817Ironmongery: Stainless SteelClient:GoodmanContractor:KierArchitect:Frank Shaw Associates LtdLocation:Gloucestershire

An 11-storey student accommodation facility on Liverpool’s Hotham Street marks the second phase of an exciting redevelopment project for the city. Cladding contractor, BAK UK, has specified URSA’s Façade N35 slab across the vast new build structure.URSA has supplied over 1000m2 of URSA Façade N35 slab to cladding contractor as part of a £35m student accommodation project in Liverpool.Under the scheme, 500 student homes are to be created in a multi-storey environment on the site of the former Odeon cinema on London Road/Hotham Street. A swimming pool, gym and two landscaped gardens also form part of the ambitious city centre development set for occupation later this year.As appropriate for a prestige, high-rise residential and multi-occupancy building, superior materials have been specified throughout including URSA Façade N35 slab.The scheme has been halted for several years due to issues surrounding development funding. Now under new ownership, the design and construction have been scrutinised and it appears that a combustible insulation may have been used in the original cladding system. This has since been replaced and new work completed using URSA’s specialist product.  Ian Claydon, Technical Manager at URSA commented: “As with many high rise buildings developed only a handful of years ago, unsuitable products have been installed that don’t offer the necessary levels of protection to ensure the safety of occupants.”Rainscreen cladding is a lightweight, non-load bearing system attached to the outside of a building using a bracket and rail system. The cladding system provides protection from wind and rain, improves the thermal performance and limits solar gains.  Ian added “URSA Façade N35 is totally non-combustible, Euroclass A1, so doesn’t add any fire load to the building or prejudice the overall fire performance of the wall. The presence of the ventilated cavity behind the cladding system means that cavity barriers are required to prevent the spread of fire and/or smoke. This is a unique and highly effective product that we are seeing specified increasingly across UK and European sites.”    

The ChallengeSituated in the Rye Lane conservation area in Peckham, South London, the four to seven storey mixed-use development in Rye Green – comprising 27 residential units laid out across six floors, with two retail units on the ground floor – would provide affordable housing for people in the community who are most in need.The scheme had to consider two elements, the first being the redevelopment of the frontage building (Rye Lane) with the retention of its façade, and the second being the six-storey (with set-back seven-storey) block to the rear, on the site of the existing fish warehouse.The SolutionThe architectural design of this residential development incorporates traditional and modern features with an existing brick façade.PROJECT INFOPRODUCT DETAILThe seven-storey block is rectangular in form and has been built with a striking yellow facingbrick with protruding red brick paneling. The contrast between red and yellow brickwork is exaggerated with the introduction of green glaze facing brickwork at street level. This change in texture and brick finish works well with the local vernacular.The new second and third floor additions are set back from the retained frontage.The design is simple and functional, and the specified fabric responds to the historic character of the conservation area.Three facing bricks from Butterley Brick were selected for the build. Arden Special Reserve, a red, light textured brick, and buff Village Harvest Multi – also light textured – were used as the facing material for the main body of the buildings. Wilncote Blue Smooth, a dark toned brick. was used to define the base of the buildings. The set-back top floor of the seven-storey block is clad in zinc shingles to reflect its roof-like character.The BenefitsThe high quality development, together with its associated external landscaping, has contributed positively to its place in Peckham.Butterley Brick offers a range of high quality facing bricks manufactured from locally sourced raw materials; the range carries BES 6001 Responsible Sourcing certification. The bricks contribute to thermal mass and can be recycled at the end of their use.

No less than eight different solid wood floors from Junckers were used as part of the spectacular design for US company Slack’s new headquarters in San Francisco. Installed as both flooring and wall panelling, various timbers, colours and finishes were used to tell the interior story. A floor-by-floor tour takes you on a nature trail. Taking inspiration from the company CEO’s passion for the outdoors, architects Studio O+A used the Pacific Crest Trail as the basis for their design. All ten floors convey a different terrain found on the wilderness trail, from desert landscapes to mountain peaks. For a design centred around nature itself, the architects specified Junckers’ wooden floors for their natural beauty and functionality. The beauty of the grain pattern found in real wood can never be replicated, and a solid wood floor is a durable, sustainable choice for a busy office space. The project has received numerous design accolades and awards, including a place on the “2019 World’s 10 Most Beautiful Offices’ list. A floor by floor guide to Slack HQ:1st floor – Basecamp featuring Junckers Nordic Oak Classic + Black Oak on walls and seating pods2nd floor – Rocky desert featuring Junckers Oak Harmony plank flooring4th floor – Mountains featuring Junckers Oak Harmony plank flooring5th floor – Mountain lakes featuring Junckers Nordic Oak Harmony + Oak Harmony Driftwood Grey plank flooring6th floor – Waterfalls & streams featuring Junckers Nordic Oak Harmony plank flooring7th floor – Forest featuring Junckers Oak Variation Wild Hazel two-strip flooring8th floor – Volcano crater featuring Junckers Black Oak Harmony plank flooring + Textured Black Oak Variation as wall panelling9th floor – Glacier featuring Junckers Nordic Oak + Nordic Oak Harmony White Plus plank flooring10th floor – Summit featuring Junckers Oak Harmony Golden Pearl plank flooring

Project OverviewMount Earl Gardens is a new residential development in Streatham, South London, built on a site formerly occupied by old garages. Modular construction has been used to create a building of one, two and three storeys, creating as little impact as possible on the views from existing houses. Walkways have been designed within the block, with 'modernist' screening which allows light and fresh air into these areas whilst still keeping them safe and secure for residents. The aluminium screening runs along the length of the buildings and is also utilised in sections, including garden division screens, throughout the entire block of thirty-two apartments. To achieve the design vision, the building needed an homogeneous appearance to blend with the external red brick facade.Off-site build and finishThe client selected the perfect shade from our Landscape™ Terrain range of powder coatings - 'Original Terracotta'. All of our architectural powder coating have excellent durability, requiring minimal maintenance. Powder coating as a process brings further benefits, particularly to a modular build. The apartments were entirely built in a factory, leading to a faster installation time, less time spent on site and a 90% reduction in on-site waste. Powder coating is also a factory controlled process, thereby reducing time spent, and waste generated on site, and not dependent on weather conditions as is the case with air drying wet paint.Powdertech Corby coated nearly 3000 linear metres of aluminium which was fabricated into screens off-site and delivered to site just in time for installation.BenefitsPowder coating is an offsite process. It is factory controlled leading to improved consistency, less wastage and reduced environmental impact.The powders have excellent weather resistance and colour stability.Powdertech's rigorous pre-treatment system will help to keep the facade elements free from corrosion for up to 40-years.Powdertech plant and the operational team have the capacity to process large quantities of material within a short time frame, with no compromise on quality.

Project Overview: Westfield London has undergone a £600 million refurbishment and extension programme to become the largest shopping centre in Europe. With shopping and leisure outlets including a flagship gym, cinema, restaurants and bars, it is a premier retail and social venue in London.The design intention for the 740,000 sq foot extension was for Jura Limestone to surround a significant part of the exterior of the building and small sections of the interior. Various factors encouraged the designers to explore alternatives that could provide both a fast turnaround and the majestic, enduring appearance of Jura Stone.The Solution:Powdertech expertise, combined with the flexibility and design freedom of aluminium and powder coating, enabled the vision to be quickly realised.A sample of Jura limestone was sent to Powdertech where tests of different powders and effects were compared against the limestone which has natural veins of quartz and fossils appearing against a beige background. Test samples were sent back to the client and within four weeks ‘Ballycastle Stone’, a bespoke powder in our Landscape™ range, was ready to be applied to 4500sq m of aluminium cladding panels. These have an uneven leg tray to produce a saw-tooth effect as the image shows.It was essential to achieve colour consistency between batches and our powder coatings excel in this aspect. The overall effect on the finished building is an homogenous appearance of stone, across the whole, but with variations in flecks of colour against the background, just as in the stone itself. The powder coating will provide excellent corrosion protection and has an external life expectancy of up to 40-years.Benefits of using Powdertech:Powdertech is passionately interested in the development of powder coatings to reproduce natural tones and textures and in the effect of colour within architectural design.All powders have excellent weather resistance and colour stability.Powdertech's rigorous pre-treatment system will help to keep the façade free from corrosion for up to 40-years.Powdertech understands the need for fast turnaround in building construction and can accommodate short timescalesPowdertech’s state-of-the-art plant has capacity for large fabrications.

Nestled in a secluded location, the village of Lavenham has been a picturesque place to live since its mediaeval origins. But with housing supply limited within the bounds of the existing village, in 2016 residents voted for a new development to go ahead – providing it was in-keeping with their historic homes.The designs of The Paddocks’ 25 new properties therefore draw on influences from the Tudor and Regency homes and cottages already lining the streets of the village, reflecting their style and materials. Ranging from two to four-bedrooms, each home has been gifted its own individuality, with traditional finishes, such as rendering and weatherboarding linking them back to the original properties. Attention to the quality and scale of landscaping around the site has also been factored in to mirror the countryside that embraces the site.However, while the new homes certainly have similar characteristics to the houses already in the village, they do not share their energy inefficiency. Beneath the traditional finishes are contemporary homes with ambitions to keep carbon emissions to a minimum. To do this, Hartog Hutton decided to take a two-pronged approach to reducing CO2 emissions: by installing solar panels and electric car charging points, and by using thermally insulative fabrics, including blockwork.For the structural foundations, the housebuilder therefore turned to Lignacite’s 100mm and 140mm Lignacrete blocks, which are designed for high-strength uses. With an A1 fire rating, Hartog Hutton could also ensure that future residents would have an additional layer of fire protection.Lignacite Ash GP blocks then form the bulk of the buildings. With strong and durable characteristics, these blocks are ideal for all kinds of applications. More importantly, they also have great thermal insulation of 0.298 m2K/W (for 1400mm blocks at 3% moisture), which satisfies all the latest requirements of the Building Regulations Approved Document L.The remainder of each structure uses Lignacite’s Fibo 850/950, which forms the substrate for the weatherboarding and rendering. They provide an excellent surface for these finishes while also adding to the overall thermal insulation of the property. A final advantage is that these blocks are extremely lightweight and can be put into place one-handed.

Project OverviewBuildtec Acoustics is proud to have partnered with EHA Group on Mimosa Court, a contemporary apartment complex in Derry, Northern Ireland. Completed in September 2021, the project provided much-needed housing with a focus on sustainability and resident comfort.Project DetailsMimosa Court comprises 27 modern apartments, featuring a mix of 9 one-bedroom and 18 two-bedroom units. The project involved the demolition of existing structures and construction of new sustainable timber frame buildings, along with comprehensive landscaping. The site team's dedication to quality is reflected in the Pride in the Job Quality Award received by Construction Manager Noel Logue, a testament to the project's exceptional standards.Acoustic Challenge & SolutionBuildtec Acoustics was tasked with value engineering an acoustic solution for the floors within the timber frame construction. Considering the project's focus on sustainability, a solution that minimized environmental impact was crucial.The Solution:Buildtec Acoustics proposed and implemented a design utilizing Isolgomma UPROLL a sustainable and effective acoustic underlay specifically designed for timber frame structures. This solution offered numerous benefits:Superior Soundproofing: Post-completion testing by ATBEC LTD confirmed exceptional results, exceeding current regulations with an average of 49 L'nTw (compared to the required ≤62 L'nTw). This achievement ensures optimal noise control within the apartments, promoting a peaceful living environment for residents.Sustainable Choice: Isolgomma aligns with the project's commitment to sustainability, contributing to Mimosa Court's eco-friendly construction.Value Engineered: Buildtec Acoustics' value engineering approach ensured cost-effectiveness while delivering superior acoustic performance.ConclusionMimosa Court serves as a prime example of Buildtec Acoustics' expertise in delivering sustainable and cost-effective acoustic solutions. By utilizing Isolgomma, the project achieved exceptional soundproofing within a sustainable timber frame construction, contributing to the overall success of Mimosa Court.Buildtec Acoustics: Sustainable Solutions for Optimal AcousticsWe are committed to providing innovative and sustainable acoustic solutions for your project. Contact Buildtec Acoustics today to discuss how we can optimize both soundproofing and environmental impact for your next development.

Derbyshire Longhouse | SIP Self Build Passive House | As Featured on Grand DesignsDerbyshire, traditional, windy with undulating hilly countryside scattered with farms and buildings that have a familiar similarity about them. A shape that is long and follows the lines of the hills, a Longhouse a venerable type of building which dates back thousands of years. They were designed to protect the human inhabitants but also the livestock from the elements all living under one roof.Being city dwellers whilst their family grew up Mike and Sarah bought an 18 ½ acre small holding in the Derbyshire dales to live a very different life. Sarah has become a fulltime shepherdess Mike a busy director, a massive change of lifestyle. The plan is to move both sets of parents into a new house.Planning history for the site showed 26 previous residential planning applications for the farm – all of which had been refused.Jillian the architect told them that the only real route for them to get planning permission was to through a special section of the planning regulations called ‘paragraph 79’ – it had to be a house of exceptional architectural quality that could only be built in the landscape surrounding it so it becomes part of the landscape. After 2 years of application approval was granted.21st century interpretation of a Derbyshire long house – a series of interconnected spaces arranged in a line. A way the family could come together so it was multigenerational living.2 existing barns were knocked down. Foundations laid and 45tonnes of steel formed the frame of the building. The entire structure was then clad in SIPs. Walls clad in corrugated steel and standing seem roof all encased with triple glazed aluminium windows and doors.500m2 of living space. Spacious open planned living quarters, kitchen sitting room and a majestic double height dining room all with breath taking views of the dales. Downstairs contained a living accommodation for Mikes parents, upstairs housed bedrooms for Mike and Sarah and the girls, at the back of the house independent living accommodation for Sarah’s mum. 3 generations of family. However in this modern longhouse the animals will be living outside!The issues faced by the site were numerous, building to near Passive House standards, a roof that mirrored many roof planes and the need to transport all of the building down a track no wider than 3.5m wide and a steel frame that looked like something from Battlestar Gallactica!At every stage through numerous design team meetings and many telephone calls emails and every other form of correspondence this project wound its way like the undulating hills it was to be built in to a conclusion.SBUK had 8 weeks to deliver and install the SIP cladding to the building which was within the 8 – 10 week build program allowed. Our costs were delivered within the parameters of the final estimate for the project despite the time lapse in between.The overall project suffered from delay due to late delivery of the standing seam roof. Delays due to the pandemic and the struggle for materials added a couple of months to the overall program and the budget increased by 7%. Inflation during this period has been running in excess of 10%!!In all reality our package stayed the same despite timber costs rising by over 50% and SIP panels rising by 32% in the same period. We have been able to achieve this for the client by better optimisation of the SIP panel cutting which reduced what should have been enormous wastage due to the triangular shape of the panels.Optimisation ultimately was nearer to normal due to hard work and diligent panel landing by our design team.From the very beginning of the project the clients have looked to build an energy efficient fabric first building that will last the test of time.The ultimate use of the house was to house 3 generations of family. The consistent search for improvements in the materials and airtightness of the building whilst striving to achieve a passive house has led to a building that has incredibly low cost for heating.Recently whilst the snow was laying on the ground the inside temperature was 22c despite no heating being used.SIP panels are inherently airtight, add to that a VCL that has wrapped the building throw in the mechanical heat recovery and the building outperforms virtually anything that is currently being built.It was very important to the client to outperform standard SIP panel thicknesses so they opted for our largest panel thickness at the time. This will keep paying back for years to come whilst keeping all 3 generations warm.

Hamburg architect Jan Störmer's design of The Fontenay luxury hotel is an homage to the Hanseatic city. The sculptural and organic circle-shaped architecture successfully achieves a balance between the urban character of the city and its natural surroundings. Situated directly on the Alster, it is an island of tranquillity in the middle of Hamburg. The exquisite structure makes it possible to experience the Hanseatic slogan "modern classic" first hand: an open-minded outlook together with a cosmopolitan lifestyle, but with a marked penchant for the classical.  Because of the way the bright, curvy and light-flooded architecture is designed, all 130 rooms and suits face outward, and many offer a view of the Alster. The interior design of the guest rooms by Christian Meinert of the architectural firm Aukett + Heese in Berlin employs perfectly coordinated colours that harmonise wonderfully with the surrounding waterside park landscape. Light beige tones, green onyx walls, warm white nuances, and turquoise and royal blue accents faithfully mirror the natural surroundings. In the hotel bathrooms, light natural stone is used. Here, too, the products and materials chosen with special care ensure an overall impression of refinement and complete harmony. The furnishings, which include KEUCO cosmetic mirrors, stools and accessories with brushed nickel finish, are ideal – a perfect synthesis of the classical and the modern – simply a "modern classic". The refined and matt shine of nickel, its extreme durability, and its solid value are what makes this finish so special and attractive, and the first choice in The Fontenay hotel. Particularly in a hotel, the bathroom furnishings must always meet the high expectations of guests and management. Lasting brilliance is guaranteed by the first rate "made in Germany" workmanship and the strict controls on quality.  Because of the careful attention given to the choice of products, time spent in the bathroom is a special experience for every hotel guest. For beauty care, the illuminated cosmetic mirror is a coveted utensil, and the bathroom stool with wooden seat invites you to stay a bit longer. With their pronounced design the accessories round off the bathroom setting perfectly. The Fontenay hotel in Hamburg is an architectural masterpiece par excellence. The meticulously thought-through concept and the stylish attention to detail resonate consistently throughout the entire premises. With their brushed nickel finish, KEUCO's accessories are the perfect complement and emphasize the exclusive and modern character of the bathrooms even more.  

Lomax + Wood have supplied high performance made-to-order timber box sash windows and doors for this stunning country home in the county of Berks. Based on the classic Georgian window proportions this new build property shows a full range of Lomax + Wood products, all suited to provide elegant and pleasing sightlines and proportions.In total 39 high performance made-to-order timber sash windows and doors.26 Traditional timber box sash windows with slim 18mm double glazed units.Made-to-order entrance door, with insulated panels incorporating steel inserts for security.3 French door sets hung only for surface fitted espagnolette locking.6 Dormer casement windows with horizontal glazing bars.Supplied using engineered timber with under the Lomax + Wood FSC® Chain of CustodySet within a country landscape this substantial country house has incorporated a number of period features to create a traditional country style. Lomax + Wood worked closely with the clients to ensure their vision was upheld and that the high performance timber windows and doors produced the correct proportions throughout the property.From matching the paint colour to sourcing the desired ironmongery and finishes Lomax + Wood’s made-to-order service ensured the clients requirements were listened to and acted upon.A primary concern of the architect and client was to ensure the timer was truly from a sustainable source. Lomax + Wood are committed to sourcing from sustainable sources, to this end we have worked hard to achieve FSC® Chain of Custody which is deemed by many to be an environmental gold standard. This work was undertaken in partnership with BM TRADA who are also deemed to be a mark of quality in our industry. Too many companies in the industry are passing off their product as from a sustainable source without ensuring it is through industry certification.Lomax + Wood products have also been independently tested to ensure the building regulations are met including Part Q, this involved a full range of intruder testing by Exova BM Trada.All Lomax + Wood products are made-to-order and whether you require a traditional style or more contemporary the product options are available to meet your requirements.

Six Years' GrowthStarting the cladding supply in 2015, our final delivery completed in September 2021. We loved watching each home get its unique skin.Award WinningAwarded the Most Outstanding New Retirement Village Design in the UK (2015), at the UK Over 50s Housing Awards.A colourful village in so many ways - our Cape Cod cladding brings it to life.Warwick Gates is a high-quality family housing village. If you're looking for a thriving community, surrounded by like-minded people, you've come to the right place.Cape Cod Timber Cladding Inspired Villages, part of the Warwick Gates LLP site at Gallagher Way in Heathcote, was a special project for Vincent Timber.Featuring four Cape Cod colours, we supplied a total of 42,665m of cladding to main contractors, Engie, and suppliers, Construction Services and Weatherseal Facades.Using the Rebated Bevel 8 profile, these beautiful homes are coloured in Pilgrim Red, Olympic Taupe, Cape Cod Grey and Olympic Bayberry.All trims, starter boards and fixings are also supplied in the same colours to match and blend in seamlessly. These builds are as unique and interesting as their residents.Life in the Retirement VillageAustin Heath is at the heart of its own micro-community.Located equidistant between Warwick and Royal Leamington Spa, residents can enjoy the two beautiful worlds of the Medieval and Victorian eras right on their doorsteps.The £65 million village offers exclusive one and two bedroom homes as well as apartments for the over 65s. However, this is just the start.Without having to leave the village, residents have access to a range of facilities including a wellness spa and relaxation pool, gym, deli shop, restaurant and community rooms, as well as onsite social and leisure activities.What's more, a range of care services are available, enabling everyone to live their life to the fullest and enjoy their home for as long as they like, no matter how their circumstances may change.“Design is a fundamental part of our new retirement village. It will ensure not only a beautifully landscaped and aesthetically pleasing location, but also practical solutions for the residents who will live here.” Jamie Bunce - Managing Director of Inspired Villages

The Southsea Coastal Scheme, valued at over £180 million, is the UK’s largest local authority-led coastal defence project. Spanning 4.5 kilometres from Old Portsmouth to Eastney, it aims to protect over 10,000 homes, 700 businesses, numerous historical structures, and key access routes from flooding.Renowned for our expertise in crafting bespoke street furniture, Woodscape joined the project early, during stages two and three, invited by landscape architects LDA Design, who recognised our capacity to deliver on the demanding designs required for the scheme. The collaboration aimed to develop seating for the promenade that would capture the nautical essence of the ferryboats navigating Portsmouth Harbour, marrying form and function with local aesthetic themes.We worked closely with the Environment Agency to select Kebony®, a thermally treated softwood, which we had used on a previous project. Kebony® was favoured for its impressive durability and sustainability, aligning perfectly with the project’s long-term environmental and practical goals.Our contributions included an array of custom street furniture designed to enhance both functionality and visual appeal along the Southsea seafront. The seating solutions provided were bespoke and innovative designs, including double-sided seating with granite bases, equipped with backrests and armrests to ensure comfort and longevity. In addition, straight and curved timber-slatted wall-top seats were also created, tailored to offer comfortable resting spots for visitors while withstanding the rigors of the coastal environment.A standout feature of Woodscape’s contribution was the creation of timber-framed swing seating. This design added a nostalgic and playful element to the promenade, inviting visitors to enjoy a unique and engaging seating experience. The swings, besides being a hit for their recreational appeal, reinforced the promenade’s blend of traditional and contemporary design elements, enhancing the area’s allure.This phase of the project also saw the inclusion of fixed and removable hardwood bollards to provide enhanced area security by controlling access whilst maintaining a consistent aesthetic style, harmonising with the overall design of the seafront. The bollards, like the seating, were designed with durability and style in mind, ensuring that they complement the rest of the project’s elements while offering practical benefits.

The ChallengeModern paving was required to complement state-of-the-art offices Scott Brownrigg’s design aim was to attract the world’s most high-tech companies to the Science Park. The architecture, design and landscaping of Buildings 1 and 2 was key to setting the tone for the tech hotspot. Buildings 1 and 2 form a new gateway to the dedicated technology estate while collectively making up 210,000ft2 of commercial office space.  The two-building design spans four storeys tall and showcases a striking colonnade. The cladded feature columns provide an impressive new entrance to the park, while echoing the curve of the spine road. Buildings 1 and 2 offer a dedicated pedestrian and cycle area. The public realm space between the two buildings required extensive paving which complemented the state-of-the-art buildings. The client’s primary objective was to remove existing, dated buildings and replace them with state-of-the-art facilities for the scientific community. The master plan has sustainability and efficiency at the core of its design.The SolutionTobermore’s high quality granite aggregate paving accentuates the contemporary office scheme Tobermore supplied paving of exceptional quality to complement the state-of-the-art office hub. The public realm space between the two buildings features Tobermore’s granite aggregate paving in contemporary grey tones. The dedicated pedestrian and cycle area are paved with Braemar, Fusion and Hydropave Fusion which all feature a striking granite aggregate surface which adds to the ultra-modern scheme. Braemar offers a premium concrete paving product with aesthetic appeal of natural granite. It boasts a striking, contemporary look while being a more cost-effective and sustainable alternative to natural stone.  Fusion made a modern striking entrance to the Science Park. The area required a combination of permeable and impermeable paving. It would take a keen eye to spot where the standard block paving ends and permeable paving starts. Hydropave Fusion and Fusion was applied in permeable and non-permeable format which added continuity to the streetscape.  The new buildings achieved a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating. The facilities provide a much-needed innovation hub for scientists and graduates, and successfully generated income for Trinity College. 

A Rundum Original sliding garage door spanning 8m wide and 2.2m high was integrated within the new designs by BWP Architects for a major property renovation, transforming a house which had evolved in an uncoordinated and poorly designed way. The door provides access to a large garage space below the property’s garden level and its shape coordinates elegantly with a car turntable installed immediately in front and surrounding landscaping.The owner tasked BWP with bringing new life to the property which has many original features. Undoing of previous conversion and extension work was necessary to enable the rebuilding of the residential property to a significantly higher standard, complete with the feature garage. An existing detached garage to the rear was partially demolished and converted to create a private formal rear courtyard. The replacement curved garage is a stunning visual element, with the new automated Rundum Original door’s high quality Larch complemented by bronze coloured bespoke balustrading to add a dramatic and artistic feature to the access stair and upper courtyard over the garage.The Rundum Original side sliding door is automated using two door mounted MZ4 drives which are custom made to automate these bespoke doors. These motors allow the door to traverse the curving tracks smoothly and quietly as required for this project. The door was designed in conjunction with Rundum Meir’s UK team before being hand-crafted by its garage door experts. Every door is made to order to the highest standards using responsibly sourced materials and installed by Rundum Meir to provide an end-to-end service.Danesch Missaghian, Director of Rundum Meir (UK) said: “Not only is this exciting project completed using very high specification products throughout, but it is also designed superbly with the architects using a curved garage door in an interesting way that maximises vehicular access. We are delighted with the contribution our door has made to the success of this project.”In addition to a range of different timber species, bespoke Rundum Original side sliding garage doors can be manufactured in high strength extruded aluminium and finished in any RAL colour. This makes these garage doors suitable for any domestic, commercial or public application, with the scope for architects to think differently about how the space for a garage can be integrated into the wider building design.

Islington Square is a mixed-use development offering over 250 apartments as well as retail and leisure facilities in this Islington suburb just north of the Thames. At the site of the former North London Royal Mail sorting office, this Grade 2 listed building is a monument to Edwardian architecture, and the renovation of this square brings together the old and new, building a timeless community feel for residents and visitors.Main contractors, Galliard Construction worked with Kilhan Construction for the hard and soft landscaping in the public and residential areas, focusing on building the perfect connection between the apartments, shops and restaurants as well as the communal gardens and outdoor spaces. The crowning social hub is the summer terrace, which is a relaxing outdoor retreat of flowers and deckchairs, away from the hustle and bustle of the high street.Marshalls supplied Modal Textured in Anthracite Granite and Mid Grey Granite for the roads and pathways, these two colours were chosen to contrast perfectly for this ‘pixelated’ paving effect, creating a wonderful contemporary design for the dedicated pedestrian areas. Conservation X kerbs and steps were used for the delineation of the paving as well as the sectioning of the multi-levelled areas - as one of our more design-leading kerb options; Conservation X provided a functional and complementary addition to this overall design, tying together nicely with the Modal paving.Peter Conway from Kilhan said, "The project design was quite complex with a lot of intricate detailing and various products being matched together, however working in unison with Marshalls, who were extremely helpful throughout, made the project delivery seamless. As you can see the finished product looks amazing, I’m sure the residents on the development and in the surrounding areas are delighted with how well it looks."When completed back in 2019, this renovation had proven both creative and inspiring, and Marshalls were proud to have supplied products that contributed to this perfect example of a mixed-use environment. Even when we returned to photograph in 2021, the community feel of the square was very apparent, with still plenty to enjoy at the markets, shops, cinema and even yoga to take part in. This development has built a lasting neighbourhood ethos and established a personality for the square, with its own website and social media platform to boot.

The Ikea Hammersmith roof terrace project was an exciting one to be involved with as it is a perfect example of when to use a rail-based support system over pedestals.Ikea is a global brand known for its simple design solutions that can be used by everyone.The system – TerraSmart Rail IGNOThere was 6600m2 of the TerraSmart Rail system installed across the terrace to support concrete pavers and porcelain pavers. The lattice make-up of the paving system meant that the insulation layer placed upon the original roof was held down. This framework offered a robust and reliable substructure to the walking surface that will experience a lot of foot traffic.As it is part of our IGNO range, the system is fully non-combustible.The ChallengesThe roof had existing features in the structural slab, which meant that pedestals alone wouldn’t have been able to successfully support the surface, and therefore, a rail system was employed. The rail system allowed easy adjustment to the height creating level plains across the terrace. This system also became an advantage when forming the ramp featured in the design because the TerraSmart Rail can provide non-combustible multidirectional support to the pavers maximising stability and reliability, creating a robust and safe incline a the desired angle.Two different pavers were used as part of the project, a 50mm concrete tile and a 20mm porcelain tile. The transition between the two pavers took place at the same level. The seamless transition between the two finishes was achieved by ‘zoning’ the areas and changing the paving support heights.As it was part of a larger building, the terrace had to account for the expansion and contraction felt over time by differences in the residual temperature. The paving supports had to account for this so that any heat-induced changes would have minimal impact on the safety of the surface. An expansion profile was manufactured to slot between the tiles found over the expansion seam in the insulation to overcome this issue. The expansion profile rises above the gap between pavers and creates an L-shaped cover, hiding any expected movement.Why the project succeededThe success of this project was down to the collaborative effort between everyone involved in the project. The unique features of the project were worked on by the project, innovation and specification teams at Ryno and were complemented by the installation carried out by Greenside Landscapes.

Extruded aluminium solar shading and screening systems cover the exterior of the new car park at the redeveloped Broadmarsh Shopping Centre in Nottingham. The solar shading screen by Maple Sunscreening is a stylish way to keep the lines and aesthetics of a building interesting, contemporary and smart, and to add colour and texture. The new Broadmarsh Centre is a key part of Nottingham’s plan to become the UK’s first carbon-neutral city. The site will have natural green spaces at its heart and will provide walkways based on a centuries-old city street plan to reconnect key parts of the city.A shade made to order                              Powder coating is an excellent finish for extruded aluminium, and Powdertech offers guarantees of up to forty years for the powders we apply. The designers wanted an earthy shade for the panels on the exterior of the car park, to blend in with landscaped green spaces. The designers sent us three pieces of terracotta in differerent sahdes and asked if we could match them. We developed the shades - light, medium and dark and the client chose the darkest shade which also reflects the red brick of some of the older buildings nearby. Powdertech coated the hollow rectangular box sections of 200mm by 50mm, making a total of 7,200sq metres of extruded aluminium coated and delivered, over a summer beleaguered by the coronavirus pandemic. The three terracotta shades are now one of our Collections.Sean McGrath, MD, Maple Sunscreening said "Maple Sunscreening Limited have worked with Powdertech (Corby) Ltd on a number of prestigious, high value projects. Broadmarsh required a significant amount of development of the colour to meet the architects vision. From initial submission of samples through to the final bespoke finish, chosen from matches to 3 shades of Terracotta, Powdertech supported Maple in achieving the desired result. The project itself went very well, backing up the initial development with on-time delivery"BenefitsWe can offer bespoke shades through our close relationship with major powder manufacturersFast turnaroundConsistent colour shade between batchesExcellent resistance against corrosionEasy to cleanSections can be drilled or cut without fracturing the coating.Material can be welded without affecting the finish.

Set on the former site of a pub and a fish and chip shop, the stunning new Clifftown Shore residential development has breathed new life into the Western Esplanade in Southend-on-Sea in Essex. The development boasts a stunning location close to both the seafront and the nearby Conservation Area, which encompasses some of the coastal city’s most celebrated local architecture including the 1912 built Cliff Lift funicular railway. In addition to the 51 luxury one, two and three bedroomed apartments, the development also features a ground floor restaurant and cocktail bar and a host of aluminium fenestration systems.Taking inspiration from the Art Deco style of the neighbouring buildings and the beauty of the natural landscape, the undulating ‘waves’ of the white concrete framed building have been further accentuated by the curved installation and slim sightlines of Senior’s thermally-efficient SF52 aluminium curtain wall system.The stunning views from the individual apartments have been framed using Senior’s patented PURe® tilt and turn aluminium windows, with PURe® SLIDE aluminium doors providing access to the outdoor terraces. The thermal efficiency achieved by Senior’s PURe® aluminium system has been further enhanced with the use of energy-efficient triple glazing.The main entrance to the development features Senior’s aluminium PURe® Commercial Doors to provide safe and secure access. As well as contributing to a more energy-efficient building envelope, with all of Senior’s aluminium windows and doors comfortably meeting the new lower U-value targets of Part L of the Building Regulations, the use of the PURe® system also offers improved acoustic performance.Owing to the coastal location of the development, Senior’s aluminium fenestration systems were powder-coated in marine grade Matt Black to offer additional protection from the elements and provide an attractive contrast with the white building design. The installation of aluminium brise soleil, also powder-coated to match the aluminium windows, is both an attractive and practical feature, and will provide solar shading and protection against solar gain.Designed by LAP Architects and built by Cura Construction, all of Senior’s aluminium fenestration solutions were fabricated and installed by supply chain partner Glass & General.