"tile"

The luxury of a hotel with the warmth of being at homeThe entire interior design at the Strandhotel Zoomers in the Dutch coastal town of Castricum reflects the surrounding nature and blurs the boundaries between inside and outside. Warm sand and wood tones vary harmoniously from beige to brown, to anthracite.The bathrooms in the rooms and suites have an open and warm atmosphere. With a colour concept in dark tones, they convey a cosy feeling and invite guests to relax. At the same time, they are characterised by an exclusive interior. In this case our interior designers again opted for KEUCO fittings in black chrome.The design continues through to the kitchenette: matching the anthracite-coloured tiles, the KEUCO EDITION 400 fitting with a black chrome finish blends harmoniously into the overall concept.The extravagant finishes of KEUCO fittings in black chrome exude a touch of luxury and emphasise the homely look of the boutique hotel.

The Santo António Villas, Golf & Spa Resort (previously known as Parque da Floresta) is situated on the far West of the Algarve amongst hilly landscapes. The resort located near the historic town of Lagos, Portugal opened in 1987. It was designed by Pepe Gancedo who was one of Spain’s most famous Architects and has no two holes the same which attracts golfers to return again and again.This project included many different techniques which can be achieved using SureSet resin bound paving. The whole surface was first covered in primer and CRM (crack reduction membrane) to provide additional support to the tiled base below. The surround of the pool was laid in 3mm Popcorn along with a frame created with aluminium edging and 3mm Bronze Medal, a flower design was also installed using the flexible aluminium edging and colours from the Spectrum Range.

The Lift 109 viewpoint designed by Ralph Appelbaum Associates has opened within the rebuilt chimney of Battersea Power Station in London. We manufactured and installed a concrete reception desk for the Lift 109 Experience reception area which is located in the Power Station’s magnificent Art Deco Turbine Hall A.Living Concrete team used an innovative concrete application technique to create custom-built reception desk for our client Beck Interiors. MicroConcrete fluted tiles in Willow Green colour were cladded onto MDF frame, seamlessly achieving a very complex and detailed design. Hand cast and hand polished oval shape concrete worktops in Ivory were assembled onsite. By using the best of modern technology, we have created a modern and robust design that demonstrates how concrete can be both good looking and functional.

The ChallengeLocated in Haywards Heath, West Sussex, Foundry Gardens is a development of two to five-bedroomed housing. It was important that this relatively low-density scheme fit the traditional vernacular of the area.The SolutionChelsea Smoked Red brick was chosen and used alongside white boarding and tile. The white boarding element has been used to emphasis corner and key buildings, detailing porches and canopies.Chelsea Smoked Red brick is a red, stock thrown, wire cut brick by Ecostock, the most sustainable stock brick available in the UK. It is a high quality facing brick with recycled content. The range carries BES 6001 Responsible Sourcing certification.The BenefitsThe choice of brick helps the development to seamlessly fuse the traditional with the contemporary.The project won the Large House Builder category at the Brick Development Association’s annual Brick Awards 2018.

Calderdale Council recently embarked on an extensive refurbishment project of the ballroom in the Grade I listed Todmorden Town Hall, which completely refreshed the interior using specialist redecoration services and colour insights from Crown Paints.The 19th century building, which includes a ballroom with ornate ceiling features and plasterwork, has been home to a variety of events over its long history. The Council’s £120,000 investment into the ballroom included improvements to the acoustics and a redecoration project that aimed to refresh the building while being sympathetic to its rich history.As part of the works, Crown Paints’ colour consultancy team devised a new colour scheme for the ballroom with a rich blue called Jet Stream and Victoria White with red and yellow accent colours. It is based on the hues and tones of the original Minton tiles which were hidden beneath the ballroom’s wallpaper and rediscovered before work began.

The Double Red Duke, situated in the Cotswolds village of Clanfield, is one of Oxfordshire’s most iconic inns, with a history dating back to the 1600s. This luxury boutique hotel, bar and restaurant, with its unique and carefully balanced approach, has modernised the property without compromising its much-loved character and aesthetic.The owners of this property specified The Rooflight Co's Conservation Rooflights - with a whole unit u-value of 1.4W/m2K and a design inspired by the cast-iron rooflights of the Victorian era. The Double Red Duke owners were able to ensure the building performed to modern standards, with rooflights that fit perfectly with the aesthetic of the heritage building.The frameless appearance of the interior finish on the rooflights is achieved by installing the plasterboard up to the underside of the timber linings provided. From the external view, the rooflights are designed to be installed flush with the roof tiles. The resulting impact is a seamless integration with the building inside and out.

“Our primary design goal was to create a building that relates to and respects the surrounding historic city structure while providing a modern addition to the neighbourhood,” said SOM Director Kim Van Holsbeke.This has been achieved through a finely structured façade with large windows – a reference to the neighbouring old warehouse buildings and lofts with brick and natural stone façades. Regularly placed double windows are framed by a grid structure of rectangular ceramic baguettes from the KeraShape® system.The areas between this grid structure and the recessed window openings consist of facade tiles of the ventilated terracotta facade system KeraTwin® K20.This creates a detailed and contrast-rich picture. The elegant, matt black glaze of the terracotta creates a respectful interaction with neighbouring buildings – a contemporary interpretation of the typical Tribeca materials cast iron and stone.

In Carpi, in the province of Modena, Atlas Concorde was chosen for the porcelain stoneware floors and white clay wall tiles of a luxurious private residential villa featuring spacious interiors and an equally large outdoor area. Six ceramic collections from the company were used to furnished the rooms of the house, employed in different shades depending on their role.Those who decide to enjoy the interior of the residence find themselves surrounded by elegance. Thanks to modern furnishings and refined colours, the atmosphere is a fresh combination of comfort and luxury.An important contribution is provided by Dwell, the ceramic inspired by the world of brushed concrete and synthetic resins, the perfect ally of contemporary and original architectural projects.Also enriching the interior is Seastone, here chosen in the Greige shade and in the 22.5x90 cm size. Defined by a simple look and multiform, varied traces of fossils, the surfaces of Seastone combine the uncompromising natural beauty of stone with the superior technical and functional performance of porcelain stoneware. With meticulous research and the expert use of mixtures of earth and flakes of different colours and sizes, this ceramic collection gives the rooms a natural, contemporary European flavour, mixing refined design, evocative materials and a guarantee of reliability.Also included in the interior design is Trust, in the Copper colour and Brick composition. With its earthy nature and rich details, stone invades the space, creating enveloping and suggestive atmospheres. In particular, Trust recalls quartzite and Luserna stone with its surfaces featuring intense variations in colour and texture, obtained through the use of the most modern and sophisticated ceramic technologies.Marble and wood alternate in the outdoor floors of the villa.The former thanks to Marvel Pro porcelain tiles, the highest ceramic expression of marble that effectively meets the needs of contemporary design. Installed in the dark Grey Fleuryand in the LASTRA 20mm slab, Marvel Pro stands out for its intense veins, natural shading and refined beauty.In contrast, the warm embrace of wood comes to life thanks to Doga, the collection that evokes sanded slats of oak, and Etic, the family that combines intense natural character and authenticity in a wood effect full of allure and history.

OBJECTIVEFileturn Ltd have supplied high quality interior fit-outs, refurbishments and construction services to a wide range of high profile clients for more than thirty years.When pairing with St Giles Hotel, they wanted to create stunning bathrooms that gave a luxurious feel but were totally unique.Nuance is a unique panelling range, it is 100% waterproof, trim free and is an ideal alternative to tiles as it is six times faster to install than tiles and is becoming the fastest growing product in today’s bathrooms.OBSERVATIONSThe unique selling points of Bushboard Nuance, means it is ideal for refurbishments as well as new installations where down time needs to be kept to an absolute minimum.Bushboard understands that a hotel room that is out of action can cause huge loss of earnings so they provide a 48 hour free of charge sample service along with panels that can be installed in a matter of hours.‘We have used similar products on other contracts but Nuance stood out from the rest. Very easy to install and work with.’The Bushboard Nuance range offers flexibility to shape the perfect bathroom. The postformed panels and the standard tongue and groove panels can be linked together with BB Complete adhesive and sealant ensuring you have a water tight joint, as well as a 15-year guarantee, giving you complete peace of mind.OUTCOMEFileturn specified Bushboard Nuance, Natural Greystone in Roche texture creating a modern and desirable space.‘Our client loves the result and is very happy with the appearance of the panelling in the showers.’Bushboard strive to develop materials, manufacturing process and installation techniques to make aspirational products more affordable.‘The Bushboard team were very helpful and we would definitely use the Nuance product again.’The specification team at Bushboard thrive on helping contractors and support projects from start to finish, ensuring they are nurtured to a mutually successful conclusion.For more information about the Bushboard products, request a RIBA CPD, download an NBS specification or order samples visit www.bushboard.co.uk or call 01933 232204.

A Degafloor Approved Installer - The National Flooring Company Ltd were approached by a A 4-star hotel, in the South of England, who had decided to update their flooring system around the swimming pool. The existing floor tiles, which had started to debond posed a trip hazard and therefore needed to be replaced. The client also advised they were experiencing problems with standing water.Following the removal of the existing floor tiles, the installation of a new screed was required to build back the levels and ensure there were adequate falls in the floor for water to run back into the pool. Throughout the installation, the gym remained open, and it had been advised that the pool closure needed to be kept to an absolute minimum. The National Flooring Company installed the Degafloor Deep Fill Mortar Repair system, a fast-curing underlayment, which ensured the refurbishment programme could continue with no downtime due to curing.The existing drain was removed and replaced, along with the light box and leveller covers, which all received new stainless-steel units. A new trim was fixed around the perimeter of the pool and the Degafloor resin system, which has an excellent bond to metal surfaces, was abutted up to all the stainless-steel items. The Degafloor QTA system used within the project, is a quartz trowelled system that can be laid to falls. The system is broadcast with aggregate to provide an extremely slip resistant finish, even under wet conditions, making it ideally suited to a swimming pool surround. Coved skirting was installed around the perimeter of the room creating a completely impervious finish, with no weak spots and therefore reducing future maintenance costs. The full refurbishment was completed over 12 days, ensuring that the closure was kept to a bare minimum.The clients main requirements were they required an anti-slip floor that would eliminate the current situation they had with standing water. They specifically requested that the closure was kept to a minimum as they are a "member's club" as well as facilitating the hotel, which remained open throughout the installation. The client was extremely satisfied with the end result and felt they now have a floor finish that is much better suited to their environment.

Bright modern spaces created in quick timeframeIssueA rental property in Stourport-on-Severn needed a quick refurbishment, allowing the landlord to turn the property around for tenants who were keen to move in. The main areas to be refurbished were the kitchen and bathroom, both of which needed to be fully re-fitted, providing a fresh, clean home for the new residents.ApproachThe landlord had previously worked with Altro and needed quick to install products, which would provide ease of installation, durability, and ease of cleaning. “We had received information about a new product, Altro Walls ShowerKit, and were keen to try it out. The house needed a quick turnaround as our tenants were waiting to move in. The installer was also keen to have products that were easy to manoeuvre, carry up and down stairs, and resulted in less waste” said S. Birch, Landlord.SolutionAltro Ensemble luxury vinyl tile in colour Pewter Concrete was selected for the kitchen, providing a luxury feel together with comfort underfoot and impact sound reduction.Altro Walls ShowerKit in colour Cool Mineral and Stacked Metro design was selected for the bathroom, partnered with Altro Wood adhesive-free* in colour Post Oak. The combination of an Altro floor and wall results in an easy-to-maintain and safe space, giving the bathroom a homely aesthetic, with ease of cleaning and our Altro one in a million slip resistance reassurance.*(Altro recommend a specialist safety floor, such as Altro Aquarius or Altro Pisces, for wet room and bathroom installations)Award-winning Altro Ensemble is a modular flooring system that gives complete design freedom to create stunning floors for interior spaces. From colour blocking to geometric patterns, the possibilities are as endless as your imagination.Altro Wood adhesive-free creates maximum impact with minimum downtime providing a safe, durable, and decorative solution for busy spaces.Altro Walls ShowerKit is suitable for all residential bathroom and wet room installations. Available in a range of colours and designs, from classic white to tile-effect, helping to create a neutral and clean appearance or a contemporary ambience.

The original Ironmonger Row Baths site was built in the 1930s with swimming pool and traditional style bathing house of hot rooms and cold plunge in the basement. These facilities were completely upgraded in 2012 with saunas and steam rooms added.  In January 2022, the basement spa was destroyed by a fire. A complete restoration of the area was required of the builder’s work, fabric and services and Sauna360 UK was honoured to be commissioned to design and install all wellness areas. In January 2024 the "bathing house" re-opened to a wonderful reception.There has been a transformation of the area and a feeling of space, tranquillity and relaxation. Huge full height tiles adorn the walls throughout. Longitudinal floor tiles subtly take the eye to the glass fronted Salt sauna at one end and the backlit image and relax zone the other.  On arriving from the changing area the guest has a choice of contemporary facilities of saunas, aroma steam rooms, feature showers and ice to the left or traditional hot rooms, cold plunge and massage slabs to the right with large relaxation areas in the centre.  In the contemporary zone there are two large saunas: The Juniper Sauna This sauna  is operated at 75-85C with automatic infusion for a medium humidity. To the front a Juniper wall provides a beautiful detail with its own natural spicy aroma.  Behind the benches, and hidden within the wall, are Infra red panels. These allow the room to be operated in separate sessions at a lower temperature 40-45C with the benefits of IR bathing.The Salt Sauna The Salt Sauna is hot (85-95C) and dry like a traditional Finnish sauna and provides the ideal environment for the large salt wall. The impressive sauna has the height for a third bench in the hottest zone. The glass front allows the backlit salt wall and attractive finishes to be viewed from outside and the feeling of space appreciated from within. The Aroma Steam Room This opulent room has copious amounts of steam infused with seasonally changing essence. The stunning, large format, dark marble tiles are paired with subtle underbench lighting to create a relaxing ambience. Inclined backrests are used for ultimate comfort.Salt Inhalation Steam Room Contrasting beautifully with Aroma Steam Room, this thermal experience infuses the area with a mint or lemon essence to complement the automated salt spray within the steam environment for enhanced inhalation benefits.Completing the area are two Feature showers with warm and cool programs using essence plus a Cool room with ice feature and icy mint spray.Infrared Benching In the central area there is a long Recliner bench in ergonomic ceramics with gentle Infra red heating plus an expansive relaxation zone.Hot Rooms In the traditional zone there are the Hot Rooms. A series of interlinked rooms in large ceramics with increasing temperature as you get further in for the ultimate thermal experience.Drench Bucket & Plunge Pool Outside the hot rooms one will find a drench bucket cleansing shower and a large Plunge pool. The plunge pool now includes a unique heat recovery system which uses the heat removed from the plunge pool water to provide heat to the existing learner pool.Massage Slabs & Footrests The traditional zone also has twin heated Massage slabs for wet massage treatments by the spa therapists. The area is completed by additional heated benching with heated foot rests, below the backlit feature wall.

ChallengesSinclair Watt were provided with a detailed brief to provide accommodation for a new main entrance and reception area, product display hall, meeting room suite, additional office space and customer service telephone hall and ancillary accommodation. By necessity these were required to be large spaces to accommodate large numbers of employees and visitors.The building had to achieve seven basic goals – to allow VELUX to be a good neighbour, to be simple and beautiful, to make arrival a good experience, to be a model of balanced daylight, natural ventilation, good indoor comfort and healthy materials, to apply a well-defined, high-quality structural concept, to obtain good sustainable standards with a minimum use of energy, to be visible and logical, and to create value and express the VELUX values.The ceiling systems had to meet the Class 1, aesthetic, fire and acoustic performance required for the 37,673 ft² two-storey building which features an engineered timber and steel structural frame. The project was the first time Zentia’s Ultima+ Finesse mineral tiles had been installed in Scotland.SolutionsSinclair Watt met the brief by incorporating a regular and prominent engineered timber and steel structural frame that provided a design with a clear distinction between the supporting structure of the building and the facades and roof. This was both to create clarity and logic in the design and to make it possible to replace or update the not-so-permanent parts of the building.The internal design incorporates a central street and atrium that acts as a meeting place as well as a general circulation area and allows the best use of natural sunlight and natural ventilation throughout the building. The building provides good indoor comfort and utilises healthy materials.The three key areas – energy efficiency, healthy indoor environment and renewable energy – constitute the basis of the new building. A fabric-first approach for the building was adopted with high insulation levels and low air permeability rates to reduce overall heat loss from the building. This combined with a natural ventilation and daylighting strategy, and the use of LED lighting and air source heat pumps as the main heating source, resulted in a highly energy efficient and sustainable building.Some 1,1,00 m² of the Zentia Prestige hA+ Tegular15 tiles were used in the ground floor offices and storerooms, while 100m² of the Finesse tiles were used in the restaurant, kitchen and toilets. The Ultima+ range features class-leading light reflectance of 87% and Euroclass A2-s1, d0 fire classification, the Tegular15 variant with Class A sound absorption and Finesse a fully concealed, fully painted edge detail.Architect Iain Mitchell said: “We specified the Zentia systems as they have a good product range, good suspension systems, with good product information and good technical backup. They met all the aesthetic, fire and acoustic performances.“Zentia shadow and transition trims were used so the Zentia ceilings tie in well with adjacent plasterboard walls and ceilings. The client is very happy with the ceiling installation and building as a whole.”Colin Burns, commercial director of specialist sub-contractor PFP, said: “We had some meetings with Zentia to talk through the detailing of the Finesse element and put it to the guys on site but apart from that, and some coordinating with services, it was very straightforward. It looks good as it always does and gives a nice bright finish. It was interesting to be the first installer of Finesse in Scotland.”

Refurbishment began at The Champneys Luxury Spa Hotel in Henlow in 2017 with the aim of blending traditions of old with innovations of the new. This was the perfect opportunity for Genesis MHS120.35 Movement Joints to be used in the project. With the choice of any RAL colour available for the insert, getting the perfect match/contrast is simple and combined with their functionality, it was a match truly made for the spa.As work began on the spa, the changing rooms reached completion with sleek marble surfaces, a new locker system and a carefully thought out layout to maximise space.Genesis TDP tile trim profiles have been used throughout the refurbishment project to add the finishing touches around the hotel. With 27 finishes to choose from (one of the largest selections available in the market), the perfect complimentary trim is always in reach.The Champneys Luxury Spa Hotel opted for our Brushed Brass finish TDP trims to perfectly blend traditions of old with innovations of the new.

Architect: AtkinsInstaller: Vitec Ceilings and PartitionsProduct: Gustafs Linear RibA small but perfectly executed project at 75m2, the new Bracknell Forest Council chambers at the Times Square building in Berkshire is clad with Gustafs Linear Ribs to the ceiling and feature wall.The plain white ceiling ribs are organised into multiple square rafts across the space installed in alternating directions and interspersed with traditional ceiling tiles, lighting, and vents.The split feature wall which stands either side of the speakers’ podium and main panel desks is made up of a mixture of natural Oak and Bamboo veneer and painted ribs installed with irregularly positioned 45° angled joints.The ribs were delivered oversized and cut to size on site, the mitre joints were also cut on site by Vitec and joined using extra-long installation clips to keep the joint inline and give the illusion of a dip-dyed rib.

JD Gyms are a reputable company within the leisure industry. When they started to experience serious leakage problems across their estate (especially on mezzanine floors), they quickly realised that their existing shower construction does not live up to the standard of their service – and would need a reliable, guaranteed system solution.In order to allow for a straightforward and safe replacement of existing showers without the need to change the existing pipework, a grid platform constructed of 80mm XPS building boards was proposed . The showers then were fitted with XPS linear shower trays featuring dry-fit drain technology, 12.5mm XPS building boards on the walls and surrounding floor areas were sealed by proprietary sealing and decoupling membrane, all ready to tile after 24 hours. Up till now, 18 different sites have been completed and the shower system solution comes with one manufacturer’s guarantee on the whole installation. 

Set within a protected woodland glade, Kimmeridge Court has been carefully crafted to preserve the quality of its natural setting. Designed by Medical Architecture and built by Kier for Dorset HealthCare University NHS Foundation Trust, the facility creates a uniquely private and therapeutic environment for the treatment of patients with eating disorders.This inpatient unit, located within the grounds of the Grade II listed St Ann’s Hospital in Poole, provides specialist accommodation to meet a growing demand for the treatment of patients with eating disorders. It offers expanded and improved facilities including inpatient bedrooms, clinical and therapy spaces, and sensitively designed living spaces.The size and positioning of the building has been carefully designed to have a low impact on the mature coastal trees that occupy the site and to respect the character of the surrounding area. As have the buildings’ exterior, using traditional materials such as brick and clay roof tiles but in a contemporary manner, providing a modern and attractive setting that protects the existing context. 

During the core renovation of the Frankfurt office tower, the Lindner Group was entrusted with the complete basic fit-out and one of the tenant fit-outs. In addition tocarrying out various drywall works, high quality raised floors and energy-efficient heated and chilled ceilings were installed in combination with lighting systems fromLindner. High-quality wooden doors from Lindner’s own production, related joinery work, as well as flexible system glass partitions complete the construction package. Lindner also carried out plastering and painting work as well as tile, coating and flooring work, and additional installation services.Despite numerous challenges such as (heritage-protected) construction in existing buildings and the high logistical effort involved, the vision of a modern office tower wassuccessfully realized. Thanks to sustainable construction systems and building services combined with effective thermal insulation measures, the Global Tower is set tobe awarded with the DGNB Platinum certification.

The National Flooring Company, a Degafloor Ltd approved installer, have received another complimentary review following a kitchen refurbishment on the 23rd floor at a popular 4-star hotel in Manchester. Making the most of the quieter, New Year period, the hotel decided to upgrade their kitchen floor. Having worked at other locations for the popular hotel chain, The National Flooring Company were contacted to provide advice and following a successful proposal, were asked to complete the refurbishment. The kitchen, which is situated on the 23rd floor, required meticulous planning to ensure that works could be completed with minimal disruption to the hotel’s guests. The existing vinyl floor within the kitchen had become worn and brittle and sections were beginning to lift, causing a potential trip hazard. The vinyl floor was removed to expose the tiled finish underneath. Any loose tiles that had debonded from the floor were also removed and infilled with Degafloor Deep Fill, quick curing repair mortar.The National Flooring Company laid a scrape coat, embedded with a promesh reinforcing membrane, prior to the installation of the Degafloor Full Broadcast System (FB). The Degafloor FB system is broadcast with rounded aggregate to provide an anti-slip finish and retains this feature even in wet conditions to ensure employee safety is always maintained. As with all Degafloor systems, they are seamless and impervious, ensuring the floor will not lift, as previously experienced with the existing vinyl floor finish. Degafloor MMA resin flooring systems are fully cured within 2 hours of installation, allowing the hotel to resume normal kitchen operating procedures shortly after completion. MMA resins have a distinctive odour, but with the correct management, installations can progress with very little disruption. The National Flooring Company used the kitchen extraction system and sealed all doorways to contain and manage the odour.The project was completed to the satisfaction of the Chief Engineer, Hilton MCR, who commented on how good the floor looked. “The restaurant being on the 23rd floor presented a logistical challenge.  However, after careful planning and consideration of our hotel operations, The National Flooring Company completed the installation efficiently and to a high standard.  We were impressed with the service from start to finish.”

Tricky floor refurb? Our Smet Supported Partner, contractor, Ciaran McAteer uses a practical solution for the professional flooring contractor or tiler.  VS 582 is a self-levelling smoothing screed with excellent mouldability for laying to falls. A flexible, self-levelling, mouldable, rapid-set, cementitious, fibre-reinforced surface filler, with 2-in-1 formulation for simultaneous levelling and creation of falls. Excellent workability and mouldability because you also have the flexibility of adding water.It’s strong, with a compressive strength after 28 days: approx. 35 N/mm² (as levelling coat laid to falls), dries quickly and is pumpableBenefits of Sopro VS 582:3 – 70 mm coat thickness For floors, indoors and outdoors2-in-1 formulation: suitable as self-levelling filler and for laying to fallsCompressive strength after 28 days: approx. 35 N/mm² (as levelling coat laid to falls)Flexural tensile strength after 28 days: approx. 7 N/mm² (as levelling coat laid to falls)Self-levellingOutstanding mouldability when laid to fallsQuick-dryingFlexible, fibre-reinforcedPumpableSuitable for timber flooringSuitable for floor heating systemsLong working life: 30 – 40 minutesWalkable after 2 – 3 hoursNo client is too large or too small, SMET delivers another innovative, showcase flooring solution. Click here at other jobs using our Sopro levellers.SMET is renowned for its comprehensive range of professional CE marked, EPD certified products. The SMET flooring range includes; calcium sulphate-based screed binders, self-smoothing calcium sulphate-based screeds & compounds, cement-based screed binders, self-smoothing cement-based screeds, lightweight flowing screeds, professional tiling materials & tools, tanking and wet-room solutions, barrier coats, primers & bonding agents; for any domestic, commercial, industrial or design-flooring use.Suffice to say, the SMET product portfolio includes a German-made floor solution for any new or repair flooring requirement. Get in touch for your upcoming floor screed or tiling project.

Oakland Mews is a 21-plot residential development set within the village of Strumpshaw, Norfolk. Based on the site of a former factory, this high-quality development of detached and semi-detached dwellings delivers modern, spacious living, respectfully designed and crafted to the very highest specification using quality materials, including Hampton Rural Blend brick and Cradley Brick Specials, produced by Forterra.Aware of the site’s historic significance and agricultural location, the contractor, Total Build East Anglia Ltd, committed to using traditional materials and building methods that were in keeping with the area and delivered on its vision to bring an appealing and exclusive development to Strumpshaw.Total Build East Anglia Ltd consulted building materials supplier MKM Building Supplies Norwich to help find the appropriate bricks and tiles for the houses. It wanted a traditional red-brick style, which matched the look of a former factory that occupied the site previously and preserved the area’s heritage. Total Build selected the stock-thrown Hampton Rural Blend brick for the facing brick walls. The rustic red brick, tarnished with blackened flashes, perfectly complements the slate grey Cradley Brick Specials copings and cappings, and the dark timber cladding on the properties.Hampton Rural Blend is part of Forterra’s Ecostock range of pressed and thrown bricks manufactured at its Measham factory, which uses ground-breaking technology in sustainability and production efficiency to deliver advanced colour consistency, dimensional accuracy and quality.“An old factory used to be on the site of the development,” said Jason Hilldrup, Brick, Block, Tile and Architectural Masonry Specialist at MKM Norwich. “It was an attractive, traditional red-brick building, directors Andy Brown and Lindsey George of Total Build wanted to ensure the new development was in keeping with what had been there previously.“We reviewed some options together, looking for a brick that looked old and traditional, and they went for the Hampton Rural Blend facing brick and black-slate coloured Cradley Specials copings and cappings. The combination of the two flowed together nicely, and for the price and style, the bricks ticked all their boxes. The bricklayers and cream-coloured mortar choices have been great too. It’s come together really nicely, creating a fantastic site that has modern touches but keeps the traditional style.”

The Dairy is a retirement Living Plus development built in 2017 for people over the age of 70. Providing both one and two bedroom apartments, each apartment has a fully fitted kitchen, underfloor heating, fitted and tiled shower room with level access shower and a 24 hour emergency call system. Facilities include a hair and nail salon, lifts to all floors, club lounge, restaurant and a south facing courtyard garden. Transport links to surrounding towns and cities are available via rail and road. The railway station has trains running directly to Charing Cross and London Bridge which takes one hour.Cellecta’s Mojave S1-8 was specified by Lewis & Hickey due to it being a lightweight option for an acoustic composite floor build up. This system has a low energy use, reducing running costs and co2 emissions, which benefits the environment.McCarthy & Stone were awarded this 2,860m² contract to construct this development on St John’s Road in Royal Tunbridge Wells.

For The Refinery, a new build student accommodation complex in Leeds, Jasper Sanders + Partners looked to create a fresh and contemporary interior design scheme that underpinned the site’s historic significance. With a variety of activity zones, Forbo Flooring Systems’ Tessera Cloudscape carpet tiles and Sarlon acoustic sheet vinyl were specified, helping to create a fully integrated and striking space that meets the demands of modern student living. The Refinery was a winning project in the Fly Forbo 2020/21 competition.Built on a former industrial site near Leeds City Centre, The Refinery is a 397-room student accommodation complex providing high quality apartments, shared living spaces and a whole host of amenities. Developed by Gregory Property Group and operated by Fresh Student Living, the interior of The Refinery was designed by Jasper Sanders + Partners (JS+P), who worked alongside AHR Architects and GMI Construction to deliver this market leading student accommodation project for specialist investor Curlew Capital.

THE PROJECTBeautifully designed apartments situated in the heart of Fulham High Street, a prestigious area of London just minutes from the river, tube station and park. These carefully restored gatehouses offer striking architecture with beautiful interiors and stunning views.These design-led apartments are decorated with beautiful quality finishes and the finest detail, all carefully considered by Sitesales property group. The finishing touches throughout are complimented with all aspects of the fit-out, with mail delivery being no exception.THE PRODUCTIt is yet another luxury high-end development to incorporate our new unique ‘Tile’ mailboxes. These horizontally fitted, wall recessed mailboxes with highly innovative composite doors are manufactured to an exceptional standard with consideration to both aesthetics and functionality.Banked in a configuration of 5 x 9 mailboxes, each one has Gothic font engraved numbering positioned on the bottom right-hand corner. The mailbox locks are a dark bronze finish while the mailboxes boast a stylish polyester powder-coated bronze finish.

When Dundee-based architects Jon Frullani wanted to refurbish their own Grade B listed office they turned to international flooring specialist Gerflor to supply 250m2 of their Creation 70 LVT Dryback vinyl flooring in ‘Deep Forest’.Creation 70 LVT is a synthetic, decorative, flexible, antistatic abrasion group T floorcovering available in tile or plank, with bevelled edges. It consists in a 0.70 mm thick transparent wear layer, a design film, and a Resilient Comfort Core to provide softness and comfort surface.The LVT flooring has been used throughout the practice including the offices, communal areas including corridors, staff break-out areas, recreation space and the kitchen.Jon Frullani, Architect, and Company owner commented, “We specified Creation 70 LVT from Gerflor as it was the most suited product for our bespoke requirements. In fact, there is not one level floor in the entire building and the Creation 70 LVT has coped very well in this challenging situation.”

When a high-end development of a new residential student accommodation building in Gloucester city centre required over 3800m2 of high-quality flooring, they turned to Gerflor for a complete solution. The world class flooring installed would include Gerflor’s Tarasafe Impression and Tarasafe Standard vinyl safety flooring, Taralay Impression Comfort heterogenous flooring, together with their stunning Creation 55 LVT and Gradus Boulevard 5000 high performance Secondary Barrier Matting Tiles.Cityheart Living’s accommodation in Cityheart’s Blackfriars Residence is brand new and offers high specification and secure student accommodation to the University of Gloucestershire.Midas Group, a multimillion-pound construction group with seven offices around the southwest and Wales, had been appointed by the developers Cityheart Living as main contractors but went into administration in 2022. Vitruvius who are a team of project and construction management consultants swiftly proposed a Construction Management approach to restart the project and were appointed to take over the project.

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

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of All Hallows in Leeds sought the assistance of York-based Native Architects to address their leaking roof. Native Architects recognised the significance of the building to the community and the need for a sustainable insulation solution that would stand the test of time while providing superior thermal and acoustic properties. Soprema’s PAVATEXTIL P met all these requirements.MUCH-NEEDED ROOF REFURBISHMENTAll Hallows Church, which was built in the 1970s, serves not only as a religious centre but also as a vital community hub. Together with over a hundred volunteers, the church takes important initiatives like repurposing food that would otherwise be discarded from supermarkets and restaurants into wholesome meals for up to a hundred people in need per day.The church’s low-pitched roof had suffered from weather damage and vandalism, resulting in slipped and broken tiles. Despite being heavily frequented, the church experienced significant water ingress due to the poor condition of the tiled roof. Chris Walker, Director at Native Architects, noted that the roof also had low thermal performance.All Hallows Church required a new roof system that would not only be sturdy but also sustainable to minimise operating costs, particularly in the current economic environment. The team at Native Architects created a design to remove the existing tiles and replace them with a durable zinc roof that would offer superior longevity and performance.FROM MINERAL WOOL TO PAVATEXTIL PRecognising the building’s significance to the local community, Native Architects understood that the church needed a sustainable insulation solution that would last, as well as offering excellent thermal and acoustic properties.Initially, the team considered mineral wool insulation. Yet the high cost and the risk of glass fibre or mineral wool dropping onto the congregation through the acoustic ceiling with perforated boarding led them to explore other options. Chris Walker: “following consultation with approved distributor Unity Lime Products Ltd, we changed the specification to Soprema’s PAVATEXTIL P cotton fibre-based thermo-acoustic insulation.”THE ADVANTAGES OF PAVATEXTIL PThe team at Native Architects recognised that PAVATEXIL P offers several important advantages. The product provides the necessary thermal and acoustic performance at a more affordable price than wood-fibre alternatives. Walker: “We also really liked the idea of the product being recycled from cotton and polyester fibres, originating from recycled textile.”Being soft and flexible, PAVATEXTIL P can easily be fitted into even the most difficult-to-reach areas. This feature simplified the installation process for the roofing contractors, Geoff Neal Roofing of York. Walker: “The team at GNR really enthused about using it.”Moreover, PAVATEXTIL is extremely versatile. It can be applied between metal or timber frameworks, on sloped roofs, inside walls and for attic floors. It provides exceptional sound insulation and effectively prevents thermal losses in winter and overheating in summer.The hydrophilic and hygroscopic properties of the cotton fibres in PAVATEXTIL P, which undergo anti-bacterial, fungal and flame-retardant treatments, make them resistant to dust mites and mould. Finally, with an A+ classification for Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) emissions, the insulation material guarantees high-quality air inside All Hallows.PROVIDING COMFORT FOR LIFEThanks to our premium insulation solution and its successful installation, a cherished community centre and place of worship underwent a complete transformation. The Parochial Church Council can rest assured that PAVATEXIL P will continue to provide thermal comfort for years to come, keeping visitors warm in winter and cool in summer.HOW CAN WE HELP?Would you like our technical support for your project? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our experts.

A partnership in design@SohoPlace, located at 2 & 4 Soho Place W1, London, is a multifaceted project that combines elements of Theatre, Hospitality, and Retail across seven levels designed by AHMM. Detailed design, fabrication and installation by Quest Joinery. As part of this project, we were tasked with creating bespoke acoustic treatments to give this space a truly unique and memorable feel. This case study provides an insight into the collaborative approach taken to ensure this remarkable complex was a success.Project overviewWith so many varied spaces, @SohoPlace presented a challenging environment to design for. To ensure optimal sound quality, comfort for visitors, and an engaging aesthetic were all achieved, bespoke acoustics were needed. The project involved lining walls and ceilings with our, Cube™ acoustic panels in both 12 mm and 24 mm thickness. Pinnacle was the colour selected for its deep blue tones, giving this solution both aesthetic appeal and acoustic performance.  Wall lining – precision and durabilityThe areas that our acoustic solutions would be used in have a high level of foot traffic and so require long-term durability and performance features. To ensure our solution could meet these demands, we employed reverse incision cuts onsite, allowing the Cube 12 mm and 24 mm in Pinnacle to curve seamlessly around 90-degree corners. This approach eliminated messy chamfer 45-degree joins, resulting in a cleaner and more polished finish.  Ceiling treatments – innovative triangle formationAll ceilings, including those in the bar, corridor, social, and retail areas, were formed using a unique tiled formation cut of Cube. This approach involved the full design and fabrication of a fully demountable bespoke ceiling solution that was designed, trailed, and then fabricated by Quest Joinery. Autex Acoustics panels have adhered to a suspension grid utilising magnets, backed up with safety chains for safety. Tiles were formed with shadow gaps cut into the Cube panels as well as intermediate shadow gaps between the tiles. The designed solution was developed and tested to meet both the aesthetic and operational requirements that this unique project required. The end solution not only added aesthetic appeal but also effectively encouraged volume-based specifications for large areas, providing consistent acoustic performance throughout the space while providing full accessibility for maintenance and renewal operations.  Collaborative approachSuccess in these projects is often only achieved when multiple parties collaborate together. That is exactly what we did in this project, working closely with Architects, Interior Designers, Quest Joinery, and other stakeholders to fully understand the project’s acoustic requirements. Having all of these parties working from planning to implementation ensured that the acoustic treatments were seamlessly integrated into the overall design concept while meeting the client’s expectations. A partnership in design.Client testimonialsThe complexity of this project speaks to the work and partnerships involved in ensuring that it was a success. In this setting, the bespoke Cube panels really shine, displaying their versatility in both acoustic performance and design potential. On top of this, you can hear the difference these bespoke acoustics make. The overall ambience and sound quality within the space have been noted by Nimax management. A great compliment from those who truly know this space.Conclusion@SohoPlace is a testament to the power of working as partners in design. The result of this partnership is acoustic solutions that elevate the auditory experience in a complex and multifunctional space. Combining precision craftsmanship, innovative techniques, and a collaborative approach, we successfully delivered an acoustic environment that enhances visitors’ overall experience.

Stopgap 600 Base deep section base compound and Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS adhesive were amongst products from F. Ball used to install floorcoverings in the new premises of the Echt franchise of the Dutch home deco retailer Decorette.Work was undertaken by Decorette Woonatelier Schuyt in Vught, as part of an arrangement that will in turn see Decorette Woonatelier Echt install floorcoverings at the Vught location when it is refurbished later in the year.After installers began by removing old ceramic tiles and mechanically preparing the subfloor to remove adhesive residues, floor levels needed to be raised by 11mm.To do this, flooring contractors applied Stopgap 600 Base deep section compound at a thickness of 7mm. The product is suitable for applications at thicknesses between 5–50mm prior to being capped with a suitable F. Ball smoothing compound. Its fast-drying properties meant that this could take place just three hours later, allowing flooring contractors to return the next day to install floorcoverings.Pressure sensitive adhesives from F. Ball were then used to install PVC planks in a herringbone formation in the 200m2 area. Floorcoverings were adhered using Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS temperature tolerant adhesive in the areas near the showroom’s floor-to-ceiling windows, which had the potential to cause solar gain and, consequently, extreme temperatures and temperature fluctuations – this can cause floorcoverings to expand and contract significantly, leading to unsightly tenting and gapping at the edge of vinyl floorcoverings over time. Styccobond F46 was used to install vinyl planks in other areas. The pressure sensitive acrylic adhesive provides a high bond strength that increases as it is trafficked, as well as strong initial tack, to reduce the likelihood of tiles or planks moving around while working.Raymond Schuijt, franchise owner and installer at Decorette Schuyt, said: “We love using F. Ball adhesives and smoothing underlayments as they are top quality and very easy to work with. The range is well thought out and contains solutions for every situation you can imagine. I can always count on their technical support if I have any queries too. They’re only ever a phone call away and will gladly undertake site assessments to advise on the required subfloor preparation and floorcovering installation processes.”

Nestled in the natural beauty of northern Athens, “Adventure Farm Forest” is an inspiring outdoor playground that beckons families from all corners to come together and have fun!Themed playground in Athens, GreeceDesigned with a harmonious blend between nature's wonderland and creative play activities, it will surely excite imaginations while thrilling your little adventurers. Its centerpiece attraction – Polka - draws many children seeking thrills amidst elastic tiles covering its entire area. For younger kids, there are multiple interactive games such as Mole's Wood adventure or Little House for infants plus several benches for tired parents waiting nearby. A refreshing marble fountain supplies cool water under sunny Grecian skies topped off by a cozy municipal coffee shop only steps away when you need refueling after long hours of family bonding moments within this special place - truly a one-of-a-kind spot in Greece!The project was executed by our local channel partner Intec S.A. in 2012.

"Expanding boundaries, horizons, capturing space and transforming it into new, modern, and welcoming lines": it is with this leitmotiv that the Pietra Perla reception hall in Sannicandro di Bari welcomes its guests, accompanying them in an experience where exclusivity and elegance reign supreme.In this evocative and dreamlike setting, a pearl of the small town in the Apulia region, Atlas Concorde has contributed to furnishing some of the indoor and outdoor spaces of the facility with a contemporary style.The romantic entrance comes to life thanks to the combination of different formats and contrasting colours, where the earthy essence of stone and its rich details bring together the refined look of natural materials with the excellent technical performance of porcelain tiles.The beauty and practicality of the stone effect is repeated in the floors of the interior spaces, like halls and restaurants, where warm shades make the rooms welcoming and give them a clean, avant-garde design.Decorations inspired by simple geometries with metallic-effect inserts further enrich the furnishing project, covering the walls of the bathrooms in perfect harmony with the dark nuance of the concrete-effect floor for a unique compositional balance.

The ChallengeBowthorpe is a high-quality development of 174 new homes together with landscaped open space, community gardens and a children’s play area on an area of undeveloped land in Norwich.The development was inspired by nearby Bowthorpe Hall and explored the idea of an historic walled garden with homes built within its boundary.As part of the site’s high environmental standards, it was critical that existing features, such as important tree belts and hedges were retained while also accommodating a proposed network of cycle and walking routes.The SolutionForterra’s Breckland Reserve – a red, tumbled, wirecut brick – was used alongside flint on the ground floor of some of the homes to create detailed wall work that echoed Bowthorpe Hall.Traditional red tiled roof pitches sit above the wall and reference Bowthorpe Cottages. On top of the wall sit cedar shingle clad upper floors.Traditional terraces form most of the new homes, with flats provided alongside unique mews-style housing.The BenefitsThe building form, the materials selected, and the use of pattern and decoration, helped to create a visual connection to the local area.

IssueWavendon Community Hub has been created and designed to provide local residents with a place to meet and take part in physical and social activities. In keeping with surrounding properties, Wavendon Community Hub is constructed in red/buff brick, with pitched tiled roofs. The building comprises two separate halves: a community side with a vaulted hall space and a separate, large multi-purpose area with changing facilities. The floors needed to perform for different needs and uses, providing robust durability, safety from slips, but still provide welcoming good looks.ApproachThe project was designed by W E Architecture Ltd and the build was completed by Borras Construction Ltd, with flooring installed throughout by HC Coverings Ltd, using Mapei floor preparation products.SolutionResilient flooring was specified throughout the centre and installed over underfloor heating. Designs specified throughout the 500 square metre area included Altro Wood in the communal areas, Altro Aquarius in the toilets, showers and changing rooms and Altro Walkway 20 in corridors and back-of-house areas.

Junckers solid oak Herringbone flooring has been installed at the National Gallery of Ireland as part of extensive refurbishment works. Architects Henegan Peng’s brief to provide a more accessible route through the collections has resulted in an elegant and historically sensitive upgrade for the Gallery. The solid wood parquet floor in the Dargan and Milltown Wings was installed by DJ Kelly & Co Ltd. The new floor in the Milltown Wing replaced an original timber floor and in the Dargan Wing, Junckers created a bespoke wood block to replicate the pattern of the original tiled floor. Herringbone parquet floors, historically found in country estates, castles and mansion houses, have become one of Junckers’ most popular floors. The elegant aesthetic of the geometric pattern coupled with the naturally occurring structural grain pattern found in solid oak has made parquet the flooring of choice for anything from public buildings and offices to homes and apartments. A solid oak floor by Junckers is very durable and can be sanded and refinished several times, ensuring the floor will last a lifetime. 

As a central part of the Wintringham Park 205ha Masterplan, Wintringham Primary Academy is a three-form entry school comprising a two-storey building that accommodates 708 students alongside 60 teachers and support staff.The glazed ceramic Keratwin panels from EH Smith draw inspiration from the seasonal colours found within nature and provide wayfinding and identity to the different year groups. The ceramic products offer a robust, colourful and fireproof façade and with the innovative Hytect coating the colours will stay crisp and clean as the tiles self-clean with rainfall.TESTIMONIAL"We were impressed with the support and assistance we received from EH Smith throughout all stages of the project. Their support ensured that we could deliver on our aspirations for the design and quality of this exemplar school project. The distinctive colour palette was all possible within the Keratwin 20 system and economically viable even with relatively small quantities. A huge thank you to EH Smith for their help in the successful delivery of this wonderful new school."- Philip Marsh Founding Partner, dRMM