"concrete stone stairs"

The aesthetically pleasing Victorian residences built in the 1870’s by Matthew Allen are still going strong today. TAPERED FOAMGLAS® insulation replaces the original concrete screeds, allowing the roofs to shed water. Excellent thermal performance and long-term reliability ensure that Mr. Allen’s properties will last for a long time.

Intermarché, Saint-Rambert-en-Bugey, France required a flooring which was quick and easy to install, suitable for high traffic retail areas, while being easy to maintain. They also wanted a stylish and attractive finish. The seamless Urban Concrete Grey interlocking loose lay flooring tiles were chosen for their project.

Hydrostop AH-25 liquid roofing was chosen as a better alternative to built-up roofing for installation to a new build Surrey County Council office development. The Hydrostop AH-25 system was applied over a concrete substrate with a bituminous vapour control layer with Eurodeck liquid roofing board and cut to falls insulation.

RESIN BOUND FOR RBG KEW WALKWAYAddagrip Terraco are delighted to have been involved in the Broad Walk project at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew with the installation of over 3000sqm of our innovative resin bound porous paving system, Terrabase Rustic.SURFACING REQUIREMENTSAddagrip Terraco were approached as the UK ‘s leading manufacturer of resin exterior surfaces and together with approved contractor, True Grip Ltd, carried out extensive surveys and put together several specification options and costs that Kew could consider. Kew selected Addagrip’s new patented resin bound surfacing system Terrabase Rustic as it offered a larger 6-10mm stone size providing the rustic looking finish that Kew required and could be installed over the existing macadam with minimum environmental impact and disruption. Drainage was another key requirement and the larger stone size of this bound system provides maximum porosity.As the Terrabase product was relatively new, the surface had to meet many exacting performance criteria put forward by Kew which Addagrip was able to substantiate. After 9 months of discussion, True Grip Ltd were appointed to work via main contractor Kier Facilities Services to install the Terrabase Rustic Oak finish. Despite challenging weather conditions and site restrictions due to the public use of the main areas, True Grip Ltd installed 3,163m2 over the entire Broad Walk, following behind Kier Facilities Services who were installing extensive drainage services and brick edging.The new Terrabase Rustic surface is hard wearing, low maintenance with no loose stone and provides a seamless, natural rustic pathway which looks very much at home in the grounds of London’s historic Royal Botanic Gardens.This exciting project has created the longest double herbaceous borders in the UK. The 300m long borders either side of the Broad Walk from the Orangery to the Palm House Pond, were planted with swathes of vibrant summer flowering perennials, grasses and bulbs to form a spectacular new horticultural feature. Planting continued into early summer 2016 to complete the project.Image credit: Richard Wilford, RBG Kew

webertherm XP External Wall Insulation system has been specified for a contemporary new build in a designated conservation area in South West England. The revolutionary system has been used on the walls of the property while weberpral M through-coloured render has been used extensively to long runs of concrete walling.

In this project Stoneworld have supplied and installed a totally bespoke sandstone staircase, created by cladding a poured concrete structure. Stoneworld create a digital template for each piece by using the latest portable scanning equipment onsite. This data is then used to waterjet individual pieces for the step treads and step risers. Read on to see the details of this project

Architect/Designer: PRPLocation: ManchesterProject Overview: 30 Brown Street is a four-storey brick office building originally built in 1985. The brief was to retain and refurbish the building to provide circa 50,000sqft of adaptable contemporary workspace. ServiceFull hardware scheduling & bespoke finishProject DetailsThis exciting design in the heart of Manchester steers away from using traditional finishes such as stainless steel or brass and instead incorporates a bold use of white RAL9010 PPC ironmongery. Architect David Sharpe explains why‘The building has a lot of exposed raw finishes, including concrete soffits and grey terrazzo flooring, partly inspiring the name, CORE (also referring to the location in the heart of Manchester's office core). Doors and main structural elements were painted a very dark grey to provide a clear contrast with the concrete structure. The inspiration behind the choice of white ironmongery was to provide a high quality counterpoint to the darker raw exposed concrete and painted finishes, and any small part metalwork - eg the lighting, brassware and glazed partition framing, were also specified to be white to match.The contemporary interior was a key ingredient for the brief and although we started with the concept of a mixture of grey and white ironmongery to work with the overall feel of the building during our close work with the architect this was pulled back to a predominantly white scheme with grey pull handles being used for fully glazed doors to create greater contrast and to fulfil the contemporary brief.The choice of specific ironmongery took into account the desire for a minimalist aesthetic, relating to the choices in lighting and brassware.’To find out more about this project visit www.prp-co.uk/project/30-brown-street.html

St Francis of Assisi Catholic College in Walsall, needed to replace their existing flooring in their main sports hall, in order to cater for the demanding needs at the facility.International flooring specialist Gerflor supplied 650m2 of their world class Taraflex® Multi-Use vinyl sports flooring in Light Grey (Concrete) to complete the refurbishment project to the highest standards.Chris Newey, Gerflor Specification Area Sales Manager, West Midlands said, “The existing sports hall floor was in desperate need of refurbishment. The new Concrete effect Taraflex has transformed the look of the hall from a dated school sports hall to a fresh and very modern look.”The management and procurement process of the new sports floor would be the responsibility of the Schools Site Manager Bernie McNally who is a former professional footballer for West Bromwich Albion and has also pulled on the green jersey for his home country Northern Ireland.Bernie McNally said, “We are delighted with the results and how less intrusive Gerflor’s Taraflex sports flooring was to fit, against digging concrete out which would have been a lengthy, costly, and messy process. Our Headmaster is really impressed with the new Taraflex sports floor, which is performing really well and also looks amazing, the before and after pictures speak for themselves.”The installation of the new Taraflex® Multi-Use floor would be undertaken by the Solihull-based FLR Group. Adam Kaid, Contracts Manager, FLR Flooring said, “Gerflor have some of the best options and varieties out there and we are always extremely confident in the quality of their products.”

Minimalist design and style for a perfect outdoor setting, Atlas Concorde's concrete-effect porcelain tiles add a touch of glamor to the poolside of a private French villa.Essential shapes, simplicity, and hospitality are the main aspects that describe the exterior of a charming private villa in St. Emilion, a town that’s associated with good French wine. It’s a simple outdoor space that incorporates modern technology to support comfort and reflects a close attention to detail, where the choice of colours and materials represent the basis for the decoration of a space that embodies the principles of a modern, minimalist outdoor style. And it’s based on these design needs that the concrete-effect tilesof Atlas Concorde were called upon to clad the edges of the swimming pool outside the villa. Applied in a neutral shade in sync with the overall style, the concrete-effect surfaces adorn the space with a single continuous material, capable of transforming the environment into an oasis of intimacy, conviviality, and relaxation. The outdoor flooring makes it possible to project one’s style outside in safety and continuity, extending the design possibilities. Using a dry laying process, the outdoor tiles were placed directly on the ground, ensuring easy laying and the possibility of quick removal for any future changes. With their non-slip Grip finish and 20 mm thickness, the porcelain slabs selected for the poolside are an optimal, safe solution for the outdoor space. Resistant to external heat and the chemical attack of certain products, the outdoor tiles also maintain their flatness and original size, while also hindering the proliferation of bacteria, molds and fungi, thus ensuring a high level of healthiness. Combining beauty and practicality, the outdoor space and swimming pool of the French villa convey an atmosphere of relaxation and hospitality in harmony with the evocative setting that surrounds the private residence.

Luxurious Outdoor Living: a Sanctuary of EleganceNestled in the heart of central Tunbridge Wells, Kent, UK, this remarkable project showcases the artful synergy of luxurious outdoor living and impeccable design. The sprawling terrace area serves as an oasis of relaxation and an exquisite dining space.Once a family home in need of modernisation, this property has undergone a large transformation overseen by a family who sought not merely a home, but a sanctuary that harmoniously caters to both adults and children, fostering moments of reprieve and conviviality.The front facade is graced with the natural grandeur of McMonagle exterior natural stone wall cladding, a testament to refined taste and architectural finesse. In harmony with the contemporary elements of the roof, front door, and surround, the client chose Silver Quartzite from the Stoneer range. The 'L'-shaped corner pieces emulate the substantial depth of authentic stone walls, adding a depth to the façade.The entire front and side paths of the property are embraced by the sleek embrace of Atlas Concorde Boost White porcelain, its modern concrete finish seamlessly weaving together the chosen colour palette.Venturing to the rear of the property, the vision of local garden designer Sue Blakeley unfolds—an artist known for breathing life into outdoor realms. In her inspired design, a raised dining and socialising sanctuary emerges.A grand staircase descends from the property's first floor, unveiling a 120 m² expanse of outdoor bliss. The choice of oversized 1200x1200mm tiles from the Atlas Concorde Boost White porcelain range amplifies the modernity of the space. Their smooth, refined finish forms the cornerstone of a contemporary aesthetic that gracefully complements the minimalistic outdoor furnishings and architectural accents, crafting a space exuding cohesion and sophistication. Four huge steel planters, each with a beautiful olive tree, sit on either corner of the main terrace square.The alfresco dining area beckons, offering seating for up to 16 guests. Here, culinary delights can be prepared on the integrated BBQ or the countertop-mounted pizza oven, while refreshments are kept cold in the integrated fridges. The selected porcelain, resistant to stains and heat, ensures both ease of maintenance and enduring beauty.Adjacent to this culinary haven, a contrasting border crafted from Atlas Concorde TM Black porcelain draws the eye, defining individual zones within the outdoor haven. Beyond the inviting soft seating area, another area awaits, poised to entertain yet more guests.Gazing back from the lawn towards toe terrace, a gracefully designed set of steps guides one back up to the elevated terrace. Boost White porcelain, mirroring the landing's material, makes a bold statement, accentuated by the grandeur of five six-meter-long steps. The step risers, also composed of Boost White porcelain, exude order and logic. Intriguing, raised planters, chosen for year-round interest, colour and scent, sit either side of the steps, infusing visual intrigue and seamlessly melding with the garden's overall aesthetic, rendering this outdoor haven a masterpiece of design and leisure.Companies involved with this project:Contractor: Mann Contractors, www.jemanncontractors.co.ukGarden Designer and Installer: Sue Blakeley, www.sueblakeley.comArchitect: Coleman Anderson Architects, www.colemananderson.co.ukMaterials used in this project:Atlas Concorde Boost White Porcelain 1200x1200x20mmAtlas Concorde Boost White Porcelain 1200x600x20mmAtlas Concorde Boost TM Black Porcelain 1200x600x20mmMcMonagle Quartzite Wall Cladding Stoneer Silver Flat PiecesMcMonagle Quartzite Wall Cladding Stoneer Silver Corner Pieces

The Lantern is the result of a wholesale redevelopment and reimagining of a large eight story building in Euston, Central London. Developer owners Lazari Investments have worked with Marks Barfield Architects to create a stunning scheme which successfully meets the current desire for built inner city environments to offer contemporary and elegant work space alongside areas designed for leisure, relaxation and retail therapy.Rockfon were very pleased to be specified for the project which offers 23,000m2 of mixed-use space including offices, café’s, shops and apartments. In addition there are large terraces and gardens on almost every level.The elegant solution to unwanted noiseAround 850m2 of unique Rockfon Mono Acoustic has been installed throughout communal areas, lobbies, thoroughfares and café’s throughout the building to deliver elegant sound control where the use of reverberant materials such as glass, stone, concrete and steel, added to high foot-fall would result in unwanted noise.8build were principle contractors for the scheme with Pacy & Wheatley Acoustics being responsible for the installation of Mono Acoustic systems. David Booth of the specialist firm spoke about the project, “We are proud of the work we’ve carried out at The Lantern, which presented a number of challenges associated with the myriad of services and fittings which go to make-up sophisticated contemporary mixed-use architecture. “The grid work and Mono Acoustic were installed to a wide variety of abutments in spaces throughout the building including within the large atrium, working around the many finishes and fire curtains to the front face of the lobby and glazed screens to either end. Fitting the ceiling to accommodate a stunning feature Italian light fitting suspended from 130 rods fixed to the structural slab called for exacting tolerances and really demonstrated the system’s versatility.”Seamless performanceMono is a ground-breaking product which combines a seamless ceiling with high performance characteristics. Ceiling tiles are installed and completed with acoustic render creating a smooth, monolithic surface which not only offers high sound absorption but also provides high light reflection and light diffusion, reducing the need for artificial light.The system allows for incorporation of lighting, audio and other mechanical systems whilst delivering Class A2 fire protection. It also offers dimensionally stability at up to 100% relative humidity and can be installed in temperatures ranging from 0˚C to 40˚C.Fully recyclable, all Rockfon ranges are made from a core of naturally occurring, non-hygroscopic and non-combustible stone wool. Their surfaces provide no sustenance to harmful micro-organisms, embody high humidity resistance and are impervious to most environmental pressures. With blue chip corporates including Fujitsu, Siemens and Bauer Media occupying space within the development, attention to detail was vital in helping create the perfect setting, which is known to aid productivity while contributing to employee wellbeing and retention. Acoustic control is also vital within places where people dine, with research showing customers are less likely to return to noisy restaurants. Commitment to wellbeingRockfon Specification Manager Alan Davies talks about the brand’s commitment to the sound control and wellbeing, “We are proud to be among a growing number of manufacturers to have its products assessed by Quiet Mark – the independent global certification programme associated with the UK Noise Abatement Society charitable foundation. Its international award programme recognises excellence in low-noise products, technology and solutions to unwanted noise - visit www.quietmark.com

Great to see AG's Tavira Flagstones looking the part at St Marys Faughanvale GAA Club.The Tavira Flags in Silver are manufactured with Enduur 1 advanced concrete technology – engineered to deliver an impressive range of product enhancements, from increased strength, durability and longer lasting colours to a lower carbon footprint and advanced hydrophobic performance.

The renovation to the domes on the historic Harrods Repository was a fascinating project to have become involved in. Extensive concrete repairs were carried out using Koster corrosion protection and mortar repair materials followed by waterproofing systems installed internally and facade treatments externally on the tiled surfaces.These domes will dominate the London skyline for many years to come!

Mono M311 Glass Infill Top FixOrbis OS211 Glass Infill Top Fix As part of the North West Fire PFI scheme, the Southport Community Fire Station provided improved facilities for Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service and the North West Ambulance Service.The client’s main objectives were to create well designed facilities to a high architectural standard and provide a safe and healthy environment. Designed and built by Balfour Beatty Construction, this new 6 bay station included community-orientated facilities, training facilities, rest rooms, additional office space and two staircases.In line with the client’s vision, Delta Balustrades were appointed by Balfour Beatty to design, supply and install handrails and balustrades to both staircases and an external balcony area. Combining a minimalistic look and feel with a high quality stainless steel finish, the Mono system with clear glass infill panels was chosen for the main staircase. For the rear stair and external areas, the Orbis system with powder coated uprights was chosen.

In 1861 a small group of stonemasons formed the Edinburgh Cooperative Building Company to create affordable homes, by and for workmen, to escape from slum landlords. Typically, the terraced houses were arranged back-to-back with individual gardens: the ground-floor front doors facing one direction and first floor front doors on the opposite side with external staircases.The ‘colonies’ design has been widely replicated and recently resurrected with a contemporary approach in a new Edinburgh development by Glencairn Properties. Bellevue Colonies at McDonald Road recreates the original sense of community and interaction between neighbours with shared footpaths, gates and external stairs.Lang+Fulton supplied Modena railings to delineate each private garden space and provide boundary demarcation to the street. The railings were mounted on dwarf walls and were hot-dip galvanized and polyester powder coated for a durable finish in keeping with the quality materials of brick, zinc and slate that were used throughout the development.Awards: Homes for Scotland - Housing Development of the Year (shortlisted)

Metal Technology products have been used to give a stunning facelift to an office building on London’s Edgeware Road. The refurbishment design by Architects AWW (Atkins Walters Webster) specified a high performance façade system engineered to reduce air leakage and exceed current insulation values. Commenting on the scheme, project architect Mark Alker Stone said: “AWW is refurbishing this prominent building to provide a contemporary building as a new landmark within Colindale that benefits the local area in terms of its architectural quality, energy performance and contribution to Edgware Road.”

Accoya weatherboards have been realised on a private residence designed by Architecture 37 Limited, at Red Beach, Auckland, NZ. Accoya was chosen for its durability and stability benefits which are required for coastal settings. Profiled to Bevel Back profile with 158mm cover, the Accoya was band sawn face finish and painted with a colour called Bokara Grey (LRV 8). The coastal tradition of the Accoya weatherboards is observed with stone anchor points at entry and chimneys either end. A living wall softens the road facade, while louvered elements filter sun and privacy.

In 2017 permission was granted for the redevelopment of an historic abandoned mill in Holmfirth into a restaurant and cookery school. It was soon clear the ground to be used for parking needed stabilisation. To completely dig out the area would have been costly and there was little time for unplanned work. ABG offered a stabilisation combination. Terrex SNW geotextile layer replaced the 50mm sand binding. Abgrid was used as a basel stiffening layer and Sudsweb tied to the grid with Abfix ties. Stone was then compacted ready for ABG permeable paving (see SuDS permeable paving Sudspave, Devour, Holmfirth)

The stunning and historic Royal Opera House has become a popular attraction for opera lovers wanting to experience world-class performances. It underwent a major refurbishment by Architecture office Stanton Williams, who unveiled their plans to upgrade the entrances and public spaces. We worked with the architects and recommended the use of our flagship INTRAflex XT Entrance Matting to help trap the dirt and maintain the internal aesthetics of the building. The unique Entrance Matting which is cut into the stone at the iconic Royal Opera House not only enhance the reception but also prevents slips and trips.

Atlas Concorde's stone-effect porcelain tiles pave the area surrounding an outdoor private pool in a peaceful town in the Netherlands.The ceramic surfaces recall the earthy essence and rich details of the original material, giving the space around the outdoor pool a natural, intimate look. The pavers adorn the outdoor space with an evocative ambiance of extreme elegance, creating a comfortable designer environment. The minimalist beauty of the stoneware floor tiles, combined with excellent technical performance, is a perfect choice for the design of outdoor spaces and places that require superior standards of durability and safety.

The Residence Nine Elms is a building that contains one, two, and three-bedroom apartments. They feature impressive views of the city with customized furnishings and a modern design. The building’s entrance and lobby contain luxurious décor. GRID Architects wanted to have an appropriate area in this part of the building for strong entrance matting to stop the visibility of dirt and water. CS’ Pediluxe entrance matting was chosen with colours Wrought Iron (Dark Grey) and Castle Grey (Light Grey) interior carpet inserts to prevent an extreme effect against the clear stone floor and brickwork in the lobby.

DCM Surfaces were thrilled to be awarded the contract to construct this new build MUGA, following a lengthy tender process.The project included all elements of the build including; excavation of the existing surface, the MOT stone build up, macadam subbase, PCC edges and 1.8m twin rebound wire fence panels around the perimeter.A 12-15mm of black EPDM was installed direct to the tarmac subbase, and then sprayed with an anti-slip coating.Coloured line markings were added following the install, to enable multiple games such as; football, netball and basketball to be played.

The modernised area around King’s Cross opened on Thursday 26th September 2013 by the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, who laid one of the final paving stones on the new King’s Cross Square. In April 2010, Stanton Williams Architects were announced as the winners of a Network Rail competition for the design of a new 7000m² square to the front of King’s Cross Station, as part of the King’s Cross Redevelopment Programme. Sir David Higgins, Network Rail’s chief executive, joined the mayor to congratulate teams hard at work on the final touches to the project.

The £27 million Art and Design Academy is the first phase of John Moores University campus masterplan. Rick Mather Architects specified 32 Stainless Steel Howe Green access covers, ranging from the 7500 Series to the 1050 Series, to enable easy and safe access to underfloor services in a number of locations. The panels were individually manufactured to match the size of the Charcon Appalachian stone floor slabs and to blend seamlessly with the surroundings. Featuring double seals, the access covers meet the highest standards of hygiene and security as well as being corrosion and maintenance-free.

The ground floor of an up-market McCarthy and Stone retirement village has been cleverly divided using a Stylefold 120 manual folding wall, allowing staff to quickly adapt the room to create a wellness area and dining facility, or a single large function room. Partitioning experts Style recommended this top hung folding wall as it is easy to manoeuvre and it also delivers an impressive 41dB Rw acoustic integrity, ensuring excellent privacy between divided areas. A smart grey laminate finish complements the contemporary interior design of this impressive new-build development,

It would have been easy to implement a traditional paving surface but, having seen the quality of our workmanship and attention to detail that could be produced with SureSet material, Anoopam Mission decided to use it for all of the pedestrian surfaces. One large benefit is that SureSet can guarantee no loose stones because it's a resin bound system that completely infuses the raw material whilst leaving voids for permeability, which also influenced its specification.A walkway blend was designed by our Technical Team to deem the installed materials suitable for heavy footfall and potential vehicular traffic. 

THE PROJECT The Stephen A Schwarzman Centre is a new state-of-the-art performing arts and exhibition development that will house the University of Oxford’s Humanities department. The architect, Hopkins, is well known for designing environmentally efficient buildings, and the main contractor Laing O'Rourke has a wealth of experience of building large complex structures. Fosroc was invited to provide a full waterproofing system for a two-level basement due to their technical expertise, customer care, and proven products. Three forms of waterproofing were proposed; pre-applied membrane, waterproof concrete and a cavity drain system. The project also included a complex detail where the new basement needed to punch through the secant wall into an adjacent basement. THE SOLUTION Fosroc entered into an early design development phase with Laing O'Rourke to progress the waterproofing design and overcome some of the particularly challenging aspects of the scheme. Design meetings were held to address these issues in advance of the scheme going to site. The primary protection proposed for the base was the robust Type A Proofex Engage pre-applied fully bonded membrane. Its unique mesh system allows a full bond to concrete and prevents water tracking between the concrete and membrane. Type B watertight concrete containing Supercast WCP – an integral hydrophobic pore-blocking admixture was used as secondary protection for the base and primary protection for the walls. Secondary protection for the walls was provided by the Type C Proofex Cavitydrain drained cavity system, that channels water ingress into the basement drainage system. Laing O’Rourke then appointed Fosroc’s in-house design service WDS to complete the design with the required professional indemnity insurance cover. WDS has delivered a fully detailed coordinated set of design drawings to detail the waterproofing installation, helping Laing O'Rourke to complete to the very highest standard. THE BENEFITS Fosroc were able to calculate approximate quantities for the scheme, including all ancillary items. This, coupled with a planned project programme enabled the supply of materials to be accurately scheduled, avoiding delays and improving the level of cost certainty for the client. By using the three types of protection, the basement of the four-storey academic building is afforded the maximum level of long-term protection against water ingress. The installation team have been very satisfied with the design provided by WDS, and the products and service received from Fosroc throughout the installation.

Jubilee Bridge was constructed in 1977 - chloride contamination was causing corrosion of the suspended and cantilever reinforced concrete support beams, half-joint elements and the soffits of the beamsICCP was used to protect cantilever beams, half-joints and suspended slab elements. Over 8,500 anodes were drilled in and are controlled in 20 zones with separate control of the beams and the half-joints.

Each floor posed a different challenge during the refurbishment of this 1960s building. Some substrates contained bitumen, or old adhesive residues, whilst others had uneven and damaged concrete with rising damp. ARTIDEX NA was the only choice, as it covers all subfloors without the need to prime, and ARDEX DPM 1 C provided the ultimate moisture control solution.

The Seed is a blueprint for sustainable construction. This new build home used next to no concrete, is insulated with recycled paper, was built around a tree and root protection plan, and incorporates a plan for deconstruction and reuse at the end of its life. Our timber products were another key sustainable element that was carefully specified by the architect, and they are used inside and out for cladding, decking and flooring.

Quinn Architects, on behalf of the Director Laurence Quinn and his family, undertook the renovation of an eleventh-floor four bedroom Barbican tower apartment. The Barbican is a radical project and has been designated as a site of special architectural interest for its scale, its cohesion and the quality of the architecture. The complex is architecturally important as it is one of London’s best examples of concrete brutalist architecture.

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. 

The new Student Centre at Queen’s University Belfast brings together student services and the Student Union in a spectacular new building. Designed through collaboration between Hawkins\Brown and RPP Architects, the building sits at the heart of campus and cleverly bridges the gap between the University’s heritage and future. An accessible, modern space with an open plan entrance area creates a vibrant hub for students to socialise, engage, collaborate, and access support and advice. The interior exploits the high ceiling and large-scale steel structure where a central staircase doubles as terraced amphitheatre-style seating. Clad in Junckers’ solid Nordic Oak flooring with nosing in contrasting Black Oak to achieve an LRV differential of 30 points, the stairs form a visual and social focus in the building, creating a flexible, infinitely useable space. “The central social stair is a key design feature that links the spaces on different floors and provides clear, intuitive wayfinding for visitors. The warmth and natural character of the Nordic Oak flooring complimenting the red laminate cladding helps visual orientation running up through the public spaces” said Alan Shields, director, RPP Architecture. The solid hardwood flooring forms a hard-wearing and long-lasting surface ideal for high traffic areas and the natural warmth of the timber adds to the material beauty of the interior. With strong sustainability credentials, Junckers’ flooring plays a part in the architects’ design to create a building which is more efficient and less costly to operate and maintain, future-proofed for generations to come. The building also houses a performance studio with Junckers’ sprung SylvaSport Beech flooring and the one-of-a-kind Union Bar which has been fitted with a reclaimed Junckers’ sports floor. With the old line markings intact, the floor has a rustic, industrial look which will hide a multitude of sins in a busy student bar. It was finished with Junckers’ High Performance Friction+ lacquer to provide a slip resistant surface. The reclaimed floor was sourced with the help of Junckers’ Buy Back Scheme. Junckers connects with flooring contractors who specialise in reclaiming wood flooring by providing details of projects where an old floor needs lifting, as well as acting as liaison between contractors sourcing a floor which can be repurposed. The sports floor fitted in the student bar by Oakvale Wooden Flooring was lifted from a school sports hall in England by Hargreaves Reclaimed Flooring. 

Based at Manchester’s waterfront in Salford Quays, MediaCityUK Studio Block is the largest media development in the UK and will become centre for the world’s leading creative and digital businesses. The BBC is one of mediacity:uk’s anchor tenants and from 2011 it will be home to five BBC departments including two TV channels and two radio stations; three of them are Radio Five Live, BBC Sport and CBeebies.Many of the studios in the main Studio Block have Stravifloor Jackup jack-up concrete slabs to optimise the sound insulation between noise producing and noise sensitive spaces. These floating floors in combination with the structure of the studios being isolated off Stravibase SEB simple elastomer bearings delivering high performance box-in-box constructions.The TV studios built off the upper floors were built using a heavily damped concrete construction supported at 600mm centres using Stravifloor Deck isolation rails. In these studios the structure of the studios was built off the floating floors to create the box-in-box whilst providing very stable conditions for the TV cameras.

A £5m renovation scheme in Warrington has been presented with the “Best Change of Use to Existing Building” regional award by LABC (Local Authority Building Control) and Warrington Borough Council.The scheme required the conversion of a former office building, Kings Court, in Central Warrington, into 32 luxury flats, comprising of a mix of one and two bedroom apartments, arranged over three floors of accommodation. These flats are situated above retail units and restaurants. The renovation included a further two exclusive duplex penthouses for Phase 2.As part of the renovation, Main Contractor Emerald Bay Construction required an acoustic flooring solution to meet Approved Document ‘E’ Building Regulations and therefore provide overall resident comfort, in terms of Sound Insulation between separating floors. As the building structural floor was primarily concrete, Soundis put forward a solution that involved 2,072 m2 of Soundis ChipPanel 28 to help with Impact Noise. This shallow deck floating floor is ideal for concrete floors where Airborne Noise is not an issue but Impact Noise Attenuation needs to exceed the requirements of current Building Regulations.

The Scope of the project was to provide a structural waterproofing solution to a private dwelling with new build extension.The property, situated on a sloping site gave the opportunity for the waterproof design to utilise the properties environment to allow for natural discharge of any potential water ingress.The property was detached and retaining to the front and side elevations where the retaining ground slopes down and away from the property to a garden that continues to slope down to a small stream. The retaining walls on either elevation rise at their highest point to approximately 1500mm above the internal floor level.The internal walls of the property were original brick to the front and new cavity built concrete block. The floor to what was the original house is of solid concrete construction joining on to a newer block and beam floor construction.When designing the most appropriate waterproofing system to any given situation, various design factors require addressing such as (but not limited to), final use of the building, the grade of waterproofing requirement under the British Standard, structural considerations based on the form of construction and in some cases, satisfying the requirements of building warranty providers.