"aluminium"

In addressing the needs of a high-traffic SEN school, we encountered the challenge of facilitating maximum opening width at the main entrance to accommodate pupils arriving in a variety of special needs vehicles, all while prioritising security and safety for the students.To meet these multifaceted requirements, we devised a tailored solution centred around the design and installation of two bi-folding automatic aluminium doors. These doors were strategically positioned to create an internal lobby, providing a controlled environment where staff could independently manage each door. Crucially, this setup was seamlessly integrated with the existing school access control system, ensuring a high level of security while facilitating smooth traffic flow.Our innovative design also incorporated an air lock system, enhancing safety protocols by creating a secure buffer zone between the exterior and interior of the school. This air lock system not only provided added security but also offered the flexibility to transition to fully automated doors during open days and emergencies, ensuring efficient and safe ingress and egress as needed.By combining functionality, security, and adaptability, our solution successfully addressed the unique challenges faced by SEN school, providing a safe and accessible entrance that could accommodate the diverse needs of its student body while maintaining a high level of security at all times.

In the heart of a bustling garden centre, our team was tasked with revamping the entrance to a popular cafe. The existing domestic grade UPVC door system struggled to cope with the high pedestrian traffic and lacked the necessary user-friendliness and accessibility features.To address these challenges and elevate the cafe’s entrance, we embarked on a comprehensive redesign product. Our solution revolved around the design and fabrication of a commercial-grade aluminium shop front system, meticulously crafted to cater to the diverse needs of the cafe’s customers. At the core of this system, we installed a large single sliding automatic door with integrated electronic locking and a safety pocket door, ensuring both safety and reliability. This upgrade not only facilitated seamless and quiet operation but also significantly improved accessibility, particularly for disabled visitors, while effortlessly managing the constant flow of foot traffic.In addition to functionality, aesthetics were a key consideration in our design approach. Custom graphics were incorporated into the shop front, giving the entrance a distinct company identity that resonated with the cafe’s brand. Moreover, we installed an internal dividing glazed screen to provide wind and chill resistance for diners, enhancing their overall comfort. The end result was a sleek, modern, and stylish entrance that not only addressed the cafe’s immediate needs but also positioned them for future growth and success, allowing them to easily accommodate increasing footfall and expand their business operations.

Individual or hinged panel single glazed sliding system with the option of with crittall bars. This single glazed sliding system can achieve 34dB.The benefit of our MG900 panels is that they work in the same way as conventional movable walls and can be either single or double point suspension. With the slim back painted border you have clear view visual lines. This allows a superior light flow around the office, cost-effective installation and flexibility in the work environment. Plus the simple fact that they look elegant and classy. Not only these, but they also offer exceptional sound reduction allowing for privacy to be had amongst clients or for important internal meetings.The MG900 glazed system is a 35mm thick panel that can be incorporated into your standard fixed glazed partitioning system.So this unique 35mm thickness gives endless designs and layout options.Furthermore, the aluminium frame can be coloured to your choice to match your design or branding needs. These panels retain a room’s spacious sense of proportion and maximise light and clear viewing lines. Truly a magnificent office aesthetic.MG900 Key FactsAcoustic reduction from 34dBSlimline 35mm thick panelsTop hung with a shallow 4mm floor guidePanel widths 450mm to 1200mmHeight up to 3000mmPanel border finish any chosen RAL finishCrittall bar glazing designs to suit your design needs

To achieve the high-performance requirements, specialist contractor Allied Ireland, developed a solution and provided a range of Komfort’s new partitioning and door systems which offer market-leading acoustics.Komfort’s Polar 100 double glazed partitioning system achieved acoustic ratings of up to 51dB (Rw) and was installed across the meeting rooms to ensure privacy. This frameless glazed system with its bubble joints and minimal framing creates a high-end aesthetic that maximises natural light.This system was complemented by Komfort’s acoustic Sonik doors, which also achieves a high acoustic rating of up to 40dB (Rw). The striking black aluminium framing of the doors creates an intriguing and contemporary contrast to the white surroundings. The curved walls also add another dimension of interest to the design to help soften the surrounding space.In today’s increasingly demanding workplace, privacy is essential for a host of reasons. This, coupled with intelligent technology being an integral component of any leading commercial space, Komfort’s partitioning systems were made compatible with room booking systems for enhanced user experience and Komfort’s SwitchGlass.Allied designs using Komfort’s SwitchGlass technology removed the need for blinds. The glass turns from opaque to transparent at the flick of a switch, allowing for instantaneous privacy. This is an efficient, space-saving and innovative way to add privacy to any meeting room.

GCB (Guan Chong Berhad) Cocoa UK Limited is a new chocolate factory that opened in Glemsford in 2023. GCB Cocoa was established in Asia when it started trading cocoa beans in the 1980s. The new chocolate factory produces liquid and solid chocolates. The site of the factory is 17-acre which will include new access, car parking, manufacturing facilities, warehousing, and biomass container to supply renewable energy for the manufacturing procedure.Our team Helmsman manufactured, delivered, and installed 14 bespoke cubicles as the clients requested floor-to-ceiling ‘Inline’ changing cubicles, with the measurements to be 2817mm high, 950 wide, and with the door opening at 1950mm. Additionally, they have 14 benches within the changing cubicles that are 900mm wide and 300mm depth.The Inline cubicles were requested to be 'Designer White', which we were supplied by Greenlam. 'Designer White' is a simple colour that stands out. The Cubicle head rail and channel were powder coated in White Aluminium to outline the cubicles.Inside the cubicles, the benches are plasticated in silver grey with slats in 'Arctic White'. These materials are designed to withstand a wet environment so are perfect for changing rooms at GCB Cocoa.Get in touch today if you have a similar project, or want any more information on the products mentioned, give us a call at 01284 530 427.

The ProjectHaving been closed for 4 years, Allerthorpe Golf Club has recently undergone a massive transformation.Purchased by Park Leisure, the Golf club has been transformed beyond recognition and is keenly awaiting official opening in September 2018.  The Challenge The members have waited an extended period of time for the facility to be reopened and expectations were high.Creating the right environment and finish internally is of high importance and needs to be befitting of Park Leisure and of a standard expected by its members.Symms Revill Architects specified the project, and the full spectrum of Excelsior products were required on the scheme.Z section lockers, complimentary bench seating including cubicles and wall panelling.  The Solution Engaged by main contractor Speller Metcalfe, Excelsior worked closely with both Speller Metcalfe and Symms Revill to get the specification and design just right for this prestigious Golf Club.The Architects design, coupled with Excelsior’s ability to adapt and produce bespoke products has resulted in a first-class finish for the club and its members.SpecificationProduct Range: 12mm Solid Grade Laminate, Formica Delano OakDoors: 12mm Solid Grade Laminate, Formica Delano OakPilaster: 12mm Solid Grade Laminate, Formica Delano OakPartition: 12mm Solid Grade Laminate, Polyrey Beige NatureIronmongery: SBAA Semi Bright Anodised Aluminium

Student Loans Company (SLC) are a non-profit making government-owned organisation that administers loans and grants to students in colleges and universities in the UK. Since 2008, one of SLC’s main offices has been located in the North Eastern town of Darlington at The Memphis Building.What was once part of a wool factory is now a leading open plan workspace for hundreds of staff. Over the last fifteen years, the interior has undergone a number of major changes to accommodate the SLC team’s ever changing needs – including the design, manufacture and installation of multiple Glide moving panel systems we delivered in 2021.SLC wanted to implement a solution that would allow them to re-configure the large, open plan and create smaller more private areas for staff when required. All panels are top-hung, meaning there is no obtrusive floor track. Despite this, each individual panel can be locked in to position thanks a foot-operated compression bolt.Half of the panels are equipped with a drywipe surface which allows for extra writing space during team meetings, presentations, brainstorming sessions and more.The other half of the panels feature PET polyester, which incorporates custom cut-out shapes in a variety of colours. In addition to providing a uniquely textured finish, the PET panels offer protection from noise distraction thanks to the material being sound absorbent.The aluminium panel frames – which have been painted to match the PET finishes on show – ensure durability, increasing the system’s lifespan.

Student Loans Company (SLC) are a non-profit making government-owned organisation that administers loans and grants to students in colleges and universities in the UK. Since 2008, one of SLC’s main offices has been located in the North Eastern town of Darlington at The Memphis Building.What was once part of a wool factory is now a leading open plan workspace for hundreds of staff. Over the last fifteen years, the interior has undergone a number of major changes to accommodate the SLC team’s ever changing needs – including the design, manufacture and installation of multiple Glide moving panel systems we delivered in 2021.SLC wanted to implement a solution that would allow them to re-configure the large, open plan and create smaller more private areas for staff when required. All panels are top-hung, meaning there is no obtrusive floor track. Despite this, each individual panel can be locked in to position thanks a foot-operated compression bolt.Half of the panels are equipped with a drywipe surface which allows for extra writing space during team meetings, presentations, brainstorming sessions and more.The other half of the panels feature PET polyester, which incorporates custom cut-out shapes in a variety of colours. In addition to providing a uniquely textured finish, the PET panels offer protection from noise distraction thanks to the material being sound absorbent.The aluminium panel frames – which have been painted to match the PET finishes on show – ensure durability, increasing the system’s lifespan.

Bradfield College, located in the heart of Berkshire, is a school for 13-18 year olds, providing an 'education for life'.Set up in 1892, the school has its own church as part of the grounds, which has remained closed for a number of years.However, work has been completed recently to connect the church to the school, and convert it into a learning hub for academic purposes - providing students with the space to work individually or collectively to further their learning, preparing them for life in the 21st century.ChallengeNationwide metal & single ply roofing contractors Salmon Solutions provided the solution when it came to the cladding - using elZinc® standing seam cladding in Rainbow Gold to elevate the cladding, giving a sophisticated modern feel to the metal and glass exterior.SolutionTo get a secure fix, Salmon Solutions turned to use Fixfast SPIDI® Max brackets and rails as part of the vertical cladding solution. SPIDI Max brackets are versatile to be used in a wide range of applications, as well as being suitable for horizontal or vertical applications - one bracket for both fixed and sliding points, and available in 3 material grades: aluminium, A2/304 stainless steel, or A4/316 stainless steel."We have a great working relationship with Fixfast and use their products on the majority of our projects. Fixfast - as always - were reliable and efficient with both service and the technical info, which allowed us to incorporate not just their fixings but the SPIDI helping hand system into this project."Charlie Whitman - Salmon Solutions Ltd

The BriefHillingdon Hospital in Uxbridge, London were undergoing a refurbishment and required additional facilities to help keep their patients, staff and visitors dry and sheltered when arriving and leaving the hospital.The project, which was managed by Kier Construction and Blue Iris Partnerships, included a number of canopies along the entrance to their emergency department where patients and ambulances arrive 24/7.A speedy installation was an important factor, because the hospital had an ever-increasing need for outside cover due to the current COVID-19 pandemic. Their staff, patients and visitors had to wait outside more frequently due to the current restrictions in place.The SolutionWhen putting our product forward to the Architect, Kier Construction explained that while our product wasn’t specified, the main features were in fact equal to the specified product and are designed for use in commercial settings, making it the perfect solution.This product is the Coniston Wall Mounted Canopy which is an extremely versatile, commercial grade structure that met all the features required by both the Architect and the hospital including: A mono-pitch structure, integral guttering and drainage to the ground floor with no visible gutters, constructed from 100% non-corrosive material (aluminium) and a non-fragile polycarbonate roof system.Even though the Coniston is a wall mounted structure, some of the canopies detailed in this project needed to be free standing as the existing ramp that the canopy would cover is a distance from the wall. This was not an issue as the Coniston can be installed with rear posts transforming it into a free standing canopy.

Integrated Alumasc Water Management Solutions specified on new mixed-use development.The site of a derelict petrol station located in the historical town of Hemel Hempstead has recently been transformed into a new retail and residential development.Bovingdon High Street now features eight brand new apartments and a new Tesco express outlet, bringing new life into the once disused space near the town centre.The unique design of the site coupled with the number of dwellings planned, saw a number of challenging design factors for the project, including curved roofs and the need for soffits within a confined space.This is where Alumasc Water Management Solutions (AWMS) come into their own, offering a complete solution. An integrated Skyline and Rainwater offering was specified across the development, including Skyline’s bespoke aluminium fascia, soffits & copings. AX moulded extruded gutter systems with combined Swaged downpipes where also part of the final specification. All finished in a BBA approved, polyester powder coated finish, the final look achieved demonstrates understated quality, in dusty grey colour (RAL 7037) specifically to match the windows and balconies on the project.“Thankfully we were consulted early in the project, which is where we are most effective,” commented John Hemphill, Skyline Technical Sales Manager, who worked on the project.“We had a number of site meetings, which resulted in designing and submitting CAD and 3D drawings in order to ensure the project was delivered on time.”

Project DescriptionBioMed Realty’s development comprises 94,000 sq.ft. of new office accommodation over three storeys located in the heart of Cambridge’s Granta Park Estate. Rated BREEAM “Very Good”.The building features a dramatic top-lit central atrium space arranged at the heart of the floorplates. It affords the client, a leading international biotechnology company, to operate in exemplar facilities in a flexible environment to meet current needs, planned growth and evolving working patterns, including future proofing for laboratory uses. Aukett Swanke’s design embodies quality, simplicity and elegance, which enabled rapid construction to meet the proposed occupation date.Specific Project ChallengesThe façade design needed to be optimised so that the building could capture heat in the winter, minimise heat gain in the summer and maximise the use of natural daylight.The south-facing elevation, therefore, required a dynamic screen, acting as a brise soleil, maximising daylight opportunities and simultaneously avoiding excessive solar heat gain in the building interior.Solutions OfferedAsh & Lacy provided a bespoke two-step facade solution, using 3mm natural silver anodised aluminium to meet both the aesthetic and practical requirements at BioMed Realty.South elevation panels were rectangular perforated and mounted on a frame in front of the glazed curtain wall to form the dynamic screen.North, East and West elevation panels consisted of matching solid castellated panels with an embossed pattern matching the dynamic screen panels.

Bradstowe House is a fascinating opportunity to not only rescue a historic building but also do it in such a way that will make the property sustainable. When Comer Homes decided they wanted their piece back after experiencing one too many economic downturns under this roof (pun intended), what came up wasn’t anything short of astounding: The long-abandoned concrete frame had become nothing more than dust and decay; its glory days are forgotten — until now!Bradstowe House, designed by Comer Homes’ UK in-house architects is a contemporary landmark for Harrow. The building’s curving glass and steel form give way to ample underground parking as well the rooftop terraces which make this development an iconic example of modern architecture that can be found anywhere from London city all too small towns across England!Bradstowe House offers a diverse range of rental apartments that are designed to suit your needs. With modern kitchens and fully integrated appliances, our high-quality homes offer the perfect space for gatherings with family or friends alike!The old cladding of the building was very outdated and it required a lot of maintenance. The new planning permission allows for an aluminium panel (Valcan VitraDual) curtain walling system, which is much more durable than granite panels while also having better insulation qualities!Valcan supplied and delivered approx. 4100m2 of Valcan VitraDual in Cornish Granite & Riddle Grey.

Built in 1957, St Cuthbert’s is one of the oldest Secondary Schools in St Helens, and was the first Catholic Secondary Modern to be built since the war. The distinctive main elevation of the school appears largely as it did nearly sixty years ago, but over-all the school’s buildings have increased over the last half century to accommodate increased pupil numbers and more facilities. Last year, Twinfix were approached by BPL Construction to design, supply and install an enclosed free-standing mono-pitch canopy at the school, which would provide additional space for dining, a popular choice for schools looking for a cost-effective alternative to traditional extensions, allowing them to utilise their outdoor areas and provide additional covered space. The canopy covering a total of 129 square metres, manufactured from rust-resistant aluminium and powder coated to RAL 9004 signal black comprises of our innovative Multi-Link-Panel NF roof-glazing system, glazed with 25mm opal polycarbonate. Coloured vinyls were attached to some of the side panels to brighten up the structure and tie in with school branding. Mrs Twist, Head Teacher at the school commented: “We are extremely impressed with the quality and design of the canopy. The onsite team have worked in close proximity to our students and have taken full account of their health and safety.” The addition of the side glazing and doors add extra protection from the elements, making it a usable space throughout the year and a secure area for storage of equipment.

Over the past two years, The Pattern Shop has undergone meticulous restoration to provide stunning and sustainable office space. The structure of the building provides more than 3,000 square metres of adaptable office space with southerly views across the River Tyne.We have been working alongside Workwell Furniture to manufacture and install Heated Z Lockers for users to store personal belongings and allow commuters to dry damp garments.Throughout this project, our team provided and installed 6 heated Z lockers to accommodate 12 users. Z-shaped lockers are an excellent choice if space optimization is key to your design. These lockers have a small footprint but maximised internal space. They can comfortably hold large personal items as well as hanging items just as clothes. The specifications of the Z Lockers were 1775mm high, 350mm wide and 450mm deep with perforation, to allow the air to flow around the lockers.The stunning Z Lockers were manufactured with an aluminium carcass, and stainless steel frame, suitable for environments with high humidity. The laminate was in beautiful ‘Pleated Teak’ from the Helmsman laminate colour chart. The carcasses of the lockers were powder coated in the Helmsman metal colour range ‘Smoke’, to create an aesthetic locker. Heated Z Lockers were finished with diamond latch and black laminate number plates, an aesthetically pleasing pairing.If you have a project where you need Heated Z Lockers for a wet or dry environment, contact us today at 0184 530491 or get a quote here today.

Aston House is a collection of thirty-two apartments in Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire.The one and two bedroomed interiors are complemented by a mix of classic protruding balconies and Juliet balconies, as well as terraces for the top floor homes. The external envelope has a brick-work skin up to the 4th floor and the fifth-floor penthouse apartments have metal rain screen cladding panels. There is also rain screen cladding around the ground floor entrance lobbies.Popular earthy, natural shadesThe architects wanted a warm, natural shade to complement the pale sand coloured brick work. ‘Rusted steel’ from our Landscape/Terrain range was chosen to coat 850sq metres of mild steel forming the rain screen cladding. All the powders we use conform to fire reaction rating A2-s1,d0 and have a 25-year guarantee for gloss, colour and adhesion.BenefitsPowdertech has years of experience in applying additional coating where needed to protect vulnerable metal surfaces. We call this our Plus+ service.Powdertech’s flexible plant can coat a wide variety of shapes and sizes of architectural metal work and fabrications.Powdertech has over 30-years’ experience in professional architectural powder coating.Powdertech has a very wide range of both standard and unusual powder coating shades and textures.Powdertech's rigorous non-chrome pre-treatment system offers the best preparation for architectural aluminium.

Radisson Red, is a striking building situated on the north bank of the River Clyde in Glasgow's events hub, it is located near the SECC, the Clyde Auditorium (locally known as the Armadillo) and the Hydro Arena.The £30m, ten-storey boutique hotel will be Europe's first new build for the Radisson Red brand and will be the first hotel owned by Forrest Hotels, part of the Forrest Group. With 176 bedrooms and an impressive roof top sky bar with views over Glasgow, the hotel's opening was hotly anticipated by the city's tourism leaders as it continues to grow as a business and leisure destination.Work commenced on the 3,500m2 aluminium rainscreen system in May 2017. This consisted of a Booth Muirie Alucobond Spectra ACM panel system, finished in a distinct Red Brass colour with Iridescent “Colour Shift” properties. The colour stands out as the main feature of the hotel, carefully matching the Radisson Red brand and continually changing shades with the reflection and refraction of light.SFS, who lead the market with powder coated fastening solutions for the building envelope, provided fasteners to perfectly match the iridescent red of the Alucobond Spectra ACM panel. Chosen for its superior aesthetics, SFS's self drilling SX3 fastener with its unique patented irius® head has a low profile, smooth, unblemished appearance that can be perfectly colour matched to any finish.Grade A4 316 stainless steel fasteners were chosen for the application due to their enhanced performance and anti-corrosive properties, helping to extend the life of the building and, therefore, qualify for SFS's extended warranty.

The Project Refurbish existing washroom facilities at Lloyds Head Quarters.Work along side Swift Building Services to complete the project.Specification lead by Pinnegar Haywood Design.   The ChallengeProduce a range of Cubicles, Duct Panels and Vanity units to create an innovative, vibrant space.Solid surface on site jointing and polishing of oversized, bespoke Solid Surface Vanity tops.Manage installation from drawings to completion with a dedicated Contracts Manager. Complete full, detailed survey & provide guidance on discussing feasibility at planning stage. The SolutionExcelsior Select Range in a kaleidoscopic array of colours has created a stimulating, revitalising washroom environment. A valiant use of colour conveyed onto the Vanity Unit completed the installation; Magma Range 100% recyclable Compact Density Fibreboard frame with 12mm Hanex Top to suit semi recessed bowl with a 250mm upstand and a 200mm downstand finished off with 20mm square edge access panels. This Analogous colour scheme proves a break from the norm for washrooms and is testament to the Architect and the combined skills and expertise of Excelsior’s trusted team that resulted in such an accomplished finish.combined skills and expertise of Excelsior’s trusted team that resulted in such an accomplished finish.SpecificationProduct Range: Select 20mm HPL 1960mmDoors: 20mm High Pressure Gloss Laminate (Multiple Colours)Pilaster: 20mm High Pressure Laminate G059 Gris OragePartition: 12mm Solid Grade Laminate G059 Gris OrageThese Systems Are Available In The Following Finishes:Natural Wood VeneerHigh Pressure LaminateHigh Gloss LaminateIronmongery: Aluminium

Castlebar Government OfficesBauder Total Roof System (BTRS) and BauderThermofol PVC single ply waterproofing systemSynopsisThe roof area of this government office building was complex due to expansion joints, air conditioning units and intricate detailing requirements. Work hours had to be agreed with the client to keep disruption to other ongoing work at the site to a minimum and insulation upgrades were necessary to satisfy building regulations. The office also had to remain open throughout the works, causing some logistical challenges. All deliveries were timed so not to cause any disruption to visitors coming in and out of the facility.Bauder Building BoardProject:Castlebar Government OfficesLocation:Castlebar, Ireland​Roof Area:2,500m²Specifier:Office of Public Works​Approved Contractor:Deane Roofing & Cladding​The specificationBauder’s bituminous system, BTRS, was specified because it is durable, robust and can withstand permanently sited loads of up to 2000Kg/m². The system build-up included Bauder’s 100 mm Thermotech Glass insulation for superior thermal performance, ensuring the roof achieved the required 0.17 U-Value. Small linking roof areas were waterproofed using Bauder Thermofol PVC single ply system, which is long lasting, possessing high tensile strength of over 1100N, and allows for no physical penetrations of the roof.Products appliedBauder Total Roof SystemIntegrated bituminous waterproofing system with a life expectancy in excess of 40 years.Bauder Thermofol PVC1.5 mm single ply membrane can be guaranteed for up to 20 years depending on system type.System installedBauder Total Roof System (BTRS)1 Bauder K5KA heavy duty, torch-applied SBS elastomeric bitumen capping sheet, featuring a spunbond polyester reinforcement to allow the finished product to cope with structural movement without fracture. The mineral finish provides protection against UV degradation.2 Bauder ThermotechPIR insulation board with a coated glass tissue facing on both sides.3 BauderPIR FA-TEAn efficient PIR insulation board with aluminium foil facing on both sides. The top facing features a printed grid pattern to aid site cutting. It is lightweight and has zero ozone depletion potential.4 BauderTEC KSD FBSA self-adhesive SBS elastomeric bitumen air & vapour control layer, with a mica finish.Bauder Thermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system1 Bauder Thermofol U15 FRA 1.5mm thick, reinforced PVC waterproofing membrane. Stated within BBA certificate 06/4354, the Thermofol PVC waterproofing membranes have a service life in excess of 35 years. 2 Bauder PIR MTissue-faced flat board insulation, benefitting from a zero ODP and a Green guide rating of ‘A’.3 BauderTEC KSD FBSA technically advanced self-adhesive elastomeric bitumen air and vapour control layer with an aluminium foil facing for vapour impermeability.AdvocacyProject specifier, Tony Collins, Office of Public Works:“Bauder delivered a comprehensive roofing solution that utilised their top quality products and unrivalled technical support. Despite the design and logistical challenges encountered, the new roof system was delivered on time and to budget much to the delight of the client”