"building frames"

In this case study, taken from Episode 30: Civic, Community & Culture - Well-being focused acoustical design - Adam Cossey - Hawkins\Brown we look at the growing trend for well-being, and the interrelated role of acoustics, in the design and build of commercial offices, educational libraries and town halls; with Adam Cossey, Partner at Hawkins\Brown. Adam shares his experiences working on:●    The new University of Bristol Library - a world class facility for all, to support and enhance the services offered by the University’s broader library and study centres network. It will strengthen the University’s ability to provide high quality study spaces, programmes and events, and services to reach out to an increasing number of new students, researchers and academics.●    The Grade II listed Waltham Forest Town Hall and Assembly Hall, along with the surrounding landscape, which recently, have sensitively been transformed into a place where council staff, local business and residents come together. 

The newly completed 122 Waterloo Street development in the centre of Glasgow offers its occupants floor-to-ceiling glazing throughout, with almost uninterrupted views thanks to the latest Schüco curtain-walling system designed, manufactured and installed by Edinburgh-based façade specialist Charles Henshaw & Sons Ltd.But, impressively, the landmark building – which will be the Glasgow headquarters of global financial services firm Morgan Stanley – will also be one of the most energy efficient buildings in Scotland, thanks in part to high-performance glass coatings from Pilkington United Kingdom Limited.The scheme has been certified BREEAM Excellent, and achieved an ‘A’ rated Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), the latter based on a detailed assessment of the building’s energy performance. The glazing helps to minimise this by reducing energy emitted from the building, as well as the heating effect of the sun, both of which can make maintaining a comfortable interior climate more energy-intensive.A glass for all seasonsThe scale of the building and the large area of glass used means that excessive radiation of heat from the building could lead to rapid heat loss during colder conditions, requiring an increase in heating to keep the interior warm.To mitigate this effect, the glazing features a Pilkington Optitherm ™ S1 Plus low-emissivity coating which reflects radiated heat back into the building.The second issue that can affect buildings where most of the envelope is glazed is excessive heat build-up when the sun is shining directly into the interior. This can present a challenge for building managers, often requiring high levels of energy-intensive air conditioning.To combat this, a solar-control coating has been used, reducing the amount of heat energy that is able to enter the building while maintaining high levels of transparency. Michael Metcalfe, commercial sales manager at Pilkington UK, said: “The Pilkington Suncool™ 70/35 T coating selected by the design team offers high visible light transmittance, reduced solar transmittance and excellent low-emissivity all in one product.“This means the floor space will be brightly lit by sunlight but won’t suffer from overheating on warmer days.”Clear viewsThe coatings are not the only innovative part of the glazing used in the project, as the glass is held in place by the latest structurally bonded curtain wall system from manufacturer Schüco. Each unit contains a large pane of clear glass and a smaller pane of opaque, coloured spandrel glass, creating horizontal lines across the façade between each floor of the building.Michael Metcalfe continued: “The metal carrier frames in which the glass sits are extremely low profile, so the edges of the panes of glass are very close to one another. This removes the mullions normally associated with unit-based glazing systems, creating a flush glass surface with almost uninterrupted views.”The clarity of the glazing was further improved by the use of Pilkington Optiwhite™ true low-iron glazing throughout, which significantly reduces the slight green tint that is inherent in standard float glass.On the ground floor, Pilkington Optilam™ laminated glazing was used to provide protection against manual attack and increase the security of the building.Completed in December 2017, the nine-storey building also includes 155,000 sq ft of Grade A office space.Project: 122 Waterloo Street, GlasgowClient: HFD GroupArchitect: Micahel Laird ArchitectsCurtain walling supplier: SchücoInstaller: Charles Henshaw & Sons LtdImages courtesy of S G Photography

Standard Life Investments’ new £75m development at St Andrew Square in Edinburgh, as with many modern builds, it is fronted with lots of glass. It looks amazing and delivers plenty of natural light, but often requires robust shading solutions to protect people from the sun’s glare and heat. The fit-out company opted to use YewdaleDefiant® R20 systems with side channels throughout, and the YewdaleDefiant® R20M with double bracket. This allowed the installation of a dimout screen fabric and a blackout fabric, which can be easily switched between at the touch of a button. Read more...

Smet Supported Partner, Fast Floor Screed pump applied SMET LiteFlo® Lightweight Flowing Screed for the retrofit of this large house in Dalkey Co Dublin. This lightweight screed is ideal for renovation projects where loading is an issue. LiteFlo® is a high-quality, innovative, pumpable factory produced, CE marked, self-levelling screed based on calcium sulphate.German-made LiteFlo® is unique, in that it’s the first pumpable lightweight flowing screed. Made from specially selected aggregates, makes it 30% lighter than conventional flowing screeds and therefore 70% lighter than traditional sand & cement – ultimately this means less is required per m2. Another plus is that screed made from Calcium Sulphate has naturally substantially lower embodied carbon emissions than a sand and cement screed.LiteFlo® complies with EN 13813: 2002, is CE-marked, and is available in 27Kg bags or bulk silos.Have a look at the Northern Builder MagazineTop 5 Liquid Screeds Article.  Read about SMET LiteFlo® in the Irish Construction News.Smet Building Products Ltd in partnership with Fast Floor Screed Ltd, demonstrates, once again, a superior level of customer service, both pre and after-care. Whether your job is self-build, retro-fit, floor renovation, design, commercial, or an industrial venture – the flooring gurus have a floor compound suitable for you.Contact Smet Building Products Ltd 

Gradus has supplied and installed a range of wall protectionsolutions at the East Midlands Congenital Heart Centre, helping to create an engaging, child-friendly atmosphere while making the building interior more hygienic, easier to clean and cheaper to maintain.The Gradus products installed include SureProtect Design wall cladding, finished with a bespoke printed design that shows a cartoon solar system to give the corridors a different feel to the wider hospital environment. The bespoke design is printed onto the back of a clear textured sheet meaning the cladding is easy to clean and features a textured surface to conceal the effects of impact and abrasion.Elsewhere in the hospital, Gradus installed its SureProtect Endure protective wall cladding, a durable layer of wall protection that is through-coloured and textured so surface damage does not show.Standard corner guards have also been installed, offering acost-effective solution to protect vulnerable corners, as well as door frame protectors also made from SureProtect Endure. All have been carefully positioned to provide maximum protection against the constant stream of pedestrian and wheeled traffic that hospitals experience.Gradus provided Leicester Royal Infirmary with its supply and fit service, which sees the dedicated Gradus Contracts Team take the project from initial survey to design, manufacture and through to installation.

This delightful Arts and Crafts home has recently been fitted with new steel windows from the Clement Brooking range and Clement W20 steel doors.As the property is located in the Hampstead Garden Suburb, a Conservation Area, it was imperative that the new bespoke windows and doors closely matched the look of the originals. The fenestration includes a mix of genuine T bars and beautiful Fenestra joints for both the windows and doors but also some charming leaded light windows.Clement has a wealth of experience working within the Suburb and for this project we knew the slim frames of our Brooking range, combined with our W20 doors, would work perfectly for the mix of styles found at this property.The leaded light windows had unique handle plates. We took templates of the existing ones to ensure that the new ones we crafted were very close to the originals.The client said: “"It was very easy working with Clement once we'd made the decision to renew our metal windows. They took great care over the smaller details such as the handle finishes, window hinges and the special decorative detail behind the top floor window pulls. As a result we have new up to date working windows that are fit for purpose, a pleasure to use and look at, and also comply with the Conservation Area and Listed Buildings requirements for this area."

About the projectFrisby Lakes Lodge Park is an award-winning East Midlands site with a plan to develop 59 luxurious Finnish Log lodges made from 100% renewable material. Situated in the beautiful Leicestershire countryside with lodges overlooking a large fishing lake, this stunning park has a lot to offer for those wishing to move to an upcoming, safe-haven location for the over 45’s including beautiful electric-operated FAKRO roof windows.These timber-built Finnish Log lodges use materials sourced from managed forests and other controlled sources, which are crucial to sustainability and are FSC® certified. FAKRO roof windows add to the eco credentials as they use FSC-certified pine to make their high-quality pine frames.Which FAKRO products are installed?Installed into the luxury lodges are FAKRO’s FTW-V P2 Z-Wave roof windows with ARF Blackout Z-Wave blinds that are controlled remotely. At the flick of a switch, residents are able to specify the airflow through the room as well as automating the operation of the blinds, giving them the best of both worlds in one window system! Why were FAKRO products chosen?The eco-credentials of FAKRO windows were very important to this build. In terms of environmental impact, FAKRO products are designed to provide the highest standards of thermal efficiency while being manufactured using replenishable natural resources.

This delightful Arts and Crafts home has recently been fitted with new steel windows from the Clement Brooking range and Clement W20 steel doors.As the property is located in the Hampstead Garden Suburb, a Conservation Area, it was imperative that the new bespoke windows and doors closely matched the look of the originals. The fenestration includes a mix of genuine T bars and beautiful Fenestra joints for both the windows and doors but also some charming leaded light windows.Clement has a wealth of experience working within the Suburb and for this project we knew the slim frames of our Brooking range, combined with our W20 doors, would work perfectly for the mix of styles found at this property.The leaded light windows had unique handle plates. We took templates of the existing ones to ensure that the new ones we crafted were very close to the originals.The client said: “"It was very easy working with Clement once we'd made the decision to renew our metal windows. They took great care over the smaller details such as the handle finishes, window hinges and the special decorative detail behind the top floor window pulls. As a result we have new up to date working windows that are fit for purpose, a pleasure to use and look at, and also comply with the Conservation Area and Listed Buildings requirements for this area."

Project DetailProject: Motel 1Location: Newcastle UKProduct: TS 11204 Cam action door closers on rebated doors and frames.Project DescriptionRefurbing old and new to bring together the variety of Building designs without loosing the quality brand of Motel 1 is a difficult situation.In the words of Motel 1:-‘The challenge in the past years for Motel One to position itself as a budget design hotel brand was one that we initially in Germany, mastered perfectly.We were able to implement our strategy, a demand for high quality of the product and the design combined with excellent locations and a very attractive price. The basis for success is satisfied employees and guests at the heart of the Motel One business philosophy.With currently 53 hotels and more than 13.000 rooms, we have become one of the largest providers in the budget sector in Germany.Our next step takes us to Europe. In Austria we opened the first six hotels in Salzburg and Vienna and with our Motel One in Edinburgh, Manchester and in London we did our first move to the UK. By 2017, we wish to expand the network of locations to 74 hotels and around 18.000 rooms with already 5.700 rooms outside of Germany. Ambitious objectives that we will achieve with the support of our partners and the high level of motivation or our staff.’So with all this being important they used a reputable Door set manufacturer and Door control supplier

Heritage Vacuum Glazing: A Transformative Case Study for Renovating Listed Buildings and Conservation AreasIntroduction:Renovating heritage properties, including listed buildings and those in conservation areas, presents unique challenges in balancing preservation with modern standards of energy efficiency and sustainability. In this case study, we explore the application of heritage vacuum glazing as a solution for renovating a historic listed building, showcasing its transformative impact on architectural preservation and performance improvements.Case Study: Renovating a Historic Listed BuildingBackground Information:The case study focuses on a remarkable historic listed building dating back to the 18th century. Situated within a conservation area renowned for its architectural significance, the building exhibits exquisite craftsmanship and unique architectural details. However, the existing single-glazed windows posed challenges in terms of thermal inefficiency, noise penetration, and condensation issues.Challenges Faced:The architectural team encountered several challenges during the renovation process. Striking a delicate balance between preserving the building's historical charm and incorporating contemporary elements that enhance functionality was paramount. Compliance with conservation regulations was crucial to ensure the preservation of the building's original fabric and character.Selection of Heritage Vacuum Glazing:After careful consideration and collaboration with conservation specialists, heritage vacuum glazing emerged as the ideal solution for upgrading the building's fenestration. The slim profile of the glazing units closely resembled the original windows, ensuring minimal disruption to the building's architectural aesthetics. The vacuum glazing technology offered superior thermal insulation, acoustic performance, and condensation control, aligning with both conservation requirements and performance objectives.Installation Process and Considerations:During the installation process, the architectural team collaborated with specialist manufacturers experienced in heritage vacuum glazing. Meticulous attention to detail was crucial to seamlessly integrate the new glazing units with the existing window frames while preserving the historic fabric. Preservation techniques were employed to minimise any damage and maintain the building's authenticity throughout the installation.Benefits Achieved:The implementation of heritage vacuum glazing resulted in a multitude of benefits for the renovated listed building. The enhanced thermal insulation significantly reduced heat loss, leading to improved energy efficiency and reduced heating costs. The upgraded windows provided exceptional acoustic insulation, creating a peaceful indoor environment despite the bustling surroundings. Condensation issues were effectively addressed, preventing damage to the building's interior finishes and improving occupant comfort and well-being. Furthermore, the advanced security features of the vacuum glazing enhanced the protection of the building, safeguarding its historic fabric for future generations to appreciate.Testimonials and Feedback:Architects, specifiers, and building occupants expressed their satisfaction with the outcome of the renovation project involving heritage vacuum glazing. Architects praised the technology for seamlessly integrating with the building's original design, while specifiers commended its compliance with conservation regulations. Building occupants enjoyed the improved thermal comfort, reduced noise intrusion, and enhanced visual clarity provided by the heritage vacuum glazing. Their testimonials underscored the success of the solution in achieving a harmonious balance between preservation and modern comfort.Conclusion:This case study highlights the successful application of heritage vacuum glazing in the renovation of a listed building within a conservation area. By effectively addressing the challenges of thermal inefficiency, noise penetration, and condensation, heritage vacuum glazing emerged as a transformative solution. Its ability to preserve architectural aesthetics, enhance energy efficiency, improve acoustic insulation, and safeguard historic fabric makes it a preferred choice for architects and specifiers involved in renovating heritage properties.Through careful consideration of factors like compatibility, authenticity preservation, compliance with regulations, collaboration with specialists, and professional installation, the transformative potential of heritage vacuum glazing can be realised, ensuring a harmonious blend of historic authenticity and modern performance.

Virgo Fidelis Convent School was founded in 1848. The beautiful Gothic style, club head windows with feature tear drops are a main feature of the building. The original single glazed windows were made from cast iron, offering very poor thermal performance and minimal security. After 100 years the time had come to replace them. Project managers Synergy Construction & Property Consultants were seeking a window system that could not only replicate the original design but would also meet modern performance criteria. Clement’s EB24 steel window range met these requirements.

High quality Anicius facing bricks from manufacturer, Vandersanden, are a key ingredient in the success of the new home of the City, University of London’s Law School designed by award-winning global practice, WilkinsonEyre.This impressive WilkinsonEyre scheme has retained two of the site’s existing buildings and integrated these with two distinct new-build blocks that form a corner at Sebastian Street and Goswell Road in London EC1 to create a new 7,240m2 City Law School Building.The new facility provides high quality academic space to support the University’s strategic plans, while, at the same time, creating a sense of community and place on a site that has previously been under-utilised.The scheme is conceived as a series of united blocks and includes two retained 1920s light industrial buildings arranged around a central atrium space. At the corner of Sebastian Street and Goswell Road, a striking seven storey glazed tower employs an innovative ventilated double-skin with patterned interlayers to control temperature and glare. The four blocks each retain their distinct, individual character yet function as one coherent building.As well as bringing all law students together under one roof, the new building will boast several innovative features, including a mock court room; and dynamic social spaces that encourage creativity and interactive learning, alongside the law school library, which is given an added sense of presence by the continuation of the brick detailing, internally.The building will also house a legal clinic, where students will be able to put their learning into practice by advising real people on real legal issues. The attractive features extend to the outside with a relaxing outdoor space.The form of the building negotiates between the scale of the Georgian residential streets and the larger more varied grain of Goswell Road, a key arterial road into the City of London.The choice of brick to help manage this blended transition between the new development and existing buildings was, therefore, significant with the Anicius brick from Vandersanden, successfully meeting WilkinsonEyre’s design ambitions.Its attractive colour hues and texture met the requirement of the architect’s CGI visualisation that had been approved by the planners and the Conservation Officer, the building being on the edge of the Northampton Square conservation area, and the brick was specified on review of a large sample panel supplied by Vandersanden.Anicius is a hand-formed, multi-coloured brick from Vandersanden with a sanded-coated and creased structure. The base colour is a warm brown which is muted by subtle tones of white, grey and ochre, achieved through the use of specific sand types in the brick’s surface covering.A total of 210,000 bricks have been used by contractors BAM to create the external walls of the new City Law School Building and meet the desired characterful aesthetic.The choice of the Vandersanden Anicius brick for this project was the result of much research into finding a brick with the desired aesthetics, which would also meet the technical requirements, including the detailing around the chamfered reveals of the library windows. In the end, this brick was a unanimous choice amongst those involved in the decision-making process.To find out more about the bricks used in this project or to see the wide range of high-quality bricks available from Vandersanden, click on the 'View more' link 

As part of a major refurbishment of listed parliamentary estate buildings, only ARDEX products were trusted to restore and protect these iconic working areas for years to come. 

Up to 186 floors of the world’s tallest building were levelled with ARDEX products – the largest volume of levelling and smoothing compound used on one project in the company’s history.

Metal Technology has contributed to achieving the desired aesthetic for the flagship Leeds College of Building Campus designed by Fuse (Leeds). The scheme utilised Metal Technology’s System 17 High Rise capped curtain walling and incorporated manual and automatic 4-20Hi+ casement opening vents. System 5-20D Hi+ doors completed the range of products used. These systems combined to deliver complete design flexibility, achieving not only a very high level of thermal performance, but also exceptional structural, security and acoustic performance. All Metal Technology systems comply with the latest British Standards and are Secured by Design certified.

Leading UK utility contractor, Telent, have used UltraCrete’s superb ironwork installation materials to repair and install a CW1 access cover in Sutton Coldfield.BackgroundAs part of their ongoing commitment to maintaining the UK’s national utility infrastructure, Telent have used UltraCrete’s latest product innovation Mortar Buoy® to repair a chamber and install a CW1 ironwork access cover in the West Midlands.The ChallengeLocated on a busy junction, it was crucial that the repair and installation of the CW1 cover was carried out quickly to minimise disruption to motorists. With a reputation drawing on decades of experience in the design, build, support and management of the UK’s critical infrastructure, it was imperative that Telent used reputable installation materials that had been tried, tested and proven to work in the road network.The SolutionUltraCrete’s independently tested and approved ironwork installation system was specified by BT Openreach to complete the project.The new CW1 cover was installed using the Install Plus method. To begin, Mortar Buoy® was inflated in the existing chamber to prevent debris falling into the cavity and causing potential damage to the network. Once inflated, the team were able to use Mortar Buoy® as internal shuttering and repair the damaged chamber using QC10 F rapid strength flowable concrete.QC10 F, part of UltraCrete’s range of high specification concretes, is rapid setting fibre modified concrete for backfilling around manhole frames and gullies and for surface repairs.To complete the installation, Mortar Buoy® was used as a dam and Envirobed® CD534 Flowable was poured around the edges of a chamber for a permanent installation.Specially formulated for utility reinstatements, Envirobed® CD534 Flowable high performance bedding mortar is BT LN550 and LN320 compliant and offers superior compressive, tensile and flexural strengths in just 3 hours.Mortar Buoy® is a ground-breaking, innovative, inflatable access frame that acts as a dam, allowing for a flowable mortar ironwork installation in seconds – revolutionising traditional methods.Enhance your specification and upgrade your reinstatement with UltraCrete Mortar Buoy®.ResultsThe project took place on a mild winter day in December 2021. The work was completed without delay and with minimal disruption. Using Mortar Buoy® instead of a traditional damming mortar increased the speed of the installation, reduced costs and made the install less labour intensive for the team.On the performance of Mortar Buoy®, John Doherty, Area Supervisor for Telent commented: “Mortar Buoy® makes life much easier versus traditional shuttering for both chamber repair and bedding the ironwork. It is also much faster.”

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 £6 million Sandiefield Building Scheme for New Gorbals Housing Association – comprising 29 offices and flats – was completed in July 2019 and constructed by CCG limited and Interlocked Construction.AG supplied its well-established Plaza paving, in Salt + Pepper (400x200x80), to provide a beautiful and robust hard landscaping solution for the surroundings outside the centre. This product was integrated into the design to create polished, smooth lines and was supplied in various sizes (Plaza Pepper 200x100x80) to create aesthetically-pleasing patterning effects to the finished look.David McCandlish, Regional Sales Manager at AG Scotland, said:“We quickly identified Plaza, in Salt and Pepper, as the perfect fit for this major project. Plaza is a heavy-duty solution that is equipped with slip resistance, which will be important, given the high volume of footfall at the centre. This project tied in with another Medical Centre at New Gorbals for which Plaza and Xflo Plaza products were used.”AG’s Plaza paving is produced in the UK using locally sourced materials. 100% renewable energy is used during the production process, something AG has been devoted to implementing across all of its manufacturing locations.

The Sonixx Soundsure 400 high performance acoustic underlay was selected for use below a 1/2" engineered wood floor, as part of a flooring refurbishment project in an office building.The installers had nothing but positive feedback on how quick and easy the underlay was to work with. The underlay facilitated a simple, clean and cost-effective installation.Comments in praise of the installation include: 'With the SS400 under, it feels way nicer than most wood floors I walk on' and the owner of the building said, 'We are loving the floor.... everyone comments on the floor when they walk in.'In addition, the underlay provides high quality comfort, stability and performance.The SS400 was loose laid to the subfloor with the 1/2" engineered wood flooring floated above. The tongue and groove joints were bonded using a PVA adhesive.Features of Soundsure 400:Environmentally Friendly - manufactured using recycled rubber crumb.Durable - provides long-lasting performance and will not deteriorate or collapse over time.High Performing - ideally suited for use with wood flooring and laminates, providing excellent impact performance in excess of the UK building regulations.Hygenic - naturally anti-microbial, anti-allergy and resistant to decay with low VOCs.Benefits of Soundsure 400:Exceeds the performance standards required in the Building Regulations for sound insulation.Suitable for use with underfloor heating systems.Manufactured using recycled rubber materials and fully recyclable.Recycled rubber crumb ensure long-lasting acoustic performance.Cushioned underlay to provide underfoot comfort.Will not deteriorate or collapse over time.Reduces subfloor preparation times as screed and smoothing compounds are not required.Green Label Plus accredited for indoor air quality and low VOC emissions.

The Canada Water Masterplan is a significant urban regeneration project in Canada Water, Southeast London. Led by British Land and AustralianSuper, the Masterplan is set to transform a 53-acre site into a radiant mixed-use neighbourhood, over the coming 10-15 years. The development will see the creation of around 3,000 new net zero homes, circa one million sq. ft of retail, leisure, entertainment, education, and community spaces, and up to 2.5 million sq. ft of workspace. Furthermore, encapsulated within the 160 acres of existing green space, will be the first new London high street for a generation as part of 16 new streets across the masterplan, a new town square, and 12 acres of new open space including a 3.5-acre park.Situated on Surrey Quays Road, London, is the recently restored former Docks Office. The 120-year-old Grade II-listed building features 19th Century architecture and was once the base for the Surrey Commercial Docks which operated in the Rotherhithe Peninsular for decades. Fast forward a century and the Docks Office is now the marketing suite for residential property sales at Canada Water. The restoration project was approached sympathetically, with an overarching goal to return it to its former glory, whilst respecting its historical significance. The exposure of the building’s original brickwork pays homage to this and elegantly portrays its unique character and charm.Supporting effective people movement within the marketing suit is a Cibes C1 Pure Cabin Lift. Designed to be installed in just a few days, requiring minimal preparation work, the C1 Pure was the perfect solution for the listed space. Not only is the C1 Pure cost-efficient and reliable, it is a great alternative to a passenger lift. The timeless Scandinavian design successfully integrates seamlessly within the historic space, sequentially complimenting the building’s original architectural beauty and industrial heritage.

Leeds University required a New Permanent Exhibition Gallery, and a Changing Exhibits Gallery, both of which would be supplemented with a Public Engagement Seminar Gallery in the University’s iconic Parkinson Building, which fronts onto Woodhouse Lane. Each of these galleries are susceptible to dramatically increased reverberation and echo noise problems once they start filling up with visitors, so a sound absorption solution was investigated and proposed by the Architect. The solution specified was a monolithic suspended raft ceiling rather than fabric wall panels or hanging.Soundis supplied and UK Acoustic Systems installed convex and concave Absorb-R GypLine αw. Absorb-R GypLine αw provided a coverage of 130 sq metres, offering high levels of sound absorption to each gallery, but also more importantly left the walls clear of panels and the ceilings without visible acoustic baffles, providing virtually seamless surfaces. This system was perfectly suited for the Treasures Gallery as it was able to provide an aesthetic finish and solution to improve the experience of the visitors in the galleries.“Vice-Chancellor Sir Alan Langlands said: “We are incredibly proud of our Library with its Special Collections of international importance which have been built up over the past century.”

Nestled in the vibrant heart of London, Sancroft is an office building that stands tall, a commanding structure that spans over 10 floors with 2 levels of basement with a GIA of circa 429,000sqft. When the building’s architects, Buckley Gray Yeoman Ltd, were tasked with providing intensive ventilation in the building, they turned to Price Engineered Solutions for advice. Price Engineered Solutions, renowned for their leadership in supplying heating and ventilation components for key projects across the UK. They recommended the architects to work with DUCO for the installation of intensive ventilation. A Breath of Fresh Air: Continuous louvre walls with value for moneyTo ensure the Sancroft building is ventilated naturally and continuously it was decided to install the sturdy, robust aluminium louvre-wall system, DucoWall Screening 70 & 75.John Biss, Contracts Manager from Price Engineering Ltd, explains: “The selection of the DucoWall Screening 70/75 was purly down to our recommendations and budget constraints. DUCO's louvre-wall system emerged as the ideal choice in terms of cost-effectivness.” Innovative design and aesthetic appearanceWhat sets this project apart is its innovative design, which distinguishes it from the neighbouring structures.John Biss continues: “This project is truly unique due to its innovative design. For instance, we had to incorporate bracketry to support a wire trelis that over time, will host climbing plants. . The sleek appearance of the DucoWall Screening adds to the uniqueness of the building”.Super-quick assembly and high airflowThe Z-shaped louvre blades of the DucoWall Screening are clicked directly onto the support section thanks to a direct clip system, ensuring super-quick assembly. The very large span and high airflow of the louvre wall ensures high ventilation values and thus an optimal indoor climate for all office workers present.John Biss : « With Duco’s patented ‘Direct Clip’ system, the louvre blades are clicked onto the support section directly, ensuring fast installation. In a world where everything has to be delivered very quickly and the next job is waiting in line, this is a very welcome asset!”Fine collaboration and postive feedbackThe collaboration between other parties, such as Britplas, leading commercial glazing specialist in the UK, and the engineers and contractors was very great. We had open communications between all parties involved which led to yet another project going off without a hitch”. Our client expressed profound satisfied, not only with the DucoWall Screening louvre wall but also with our adapt management of the design and installation process all while minimizing disruptoin to other trades” As John Biss aptly concludes,” We’ve delivered a project that exceeds expectations, offering a breath of fresh air in every sense” Architect: Buckley Gray Yeoman LtdBuilding contractor: Price Engineered SolutionsCommercial glazing specialist: Britplas     

Job: Restoration of Norman CastleProduct: SMET NHL 5 BinderDescriptionSMET NHL 5 Binder was specially selected for the restoration works in this historic Norman Castle and Tower.  Rainey Restoration Ltd used our superior-quality pure Natural Hydraulic Lime binder SMET NHL 5 to produce a superior-quality lime mortar.SMET NHL 5 is a high-quality, pure, Natural Hydraulic Lime binder, produced under ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 management systems to EN 459-1. The eminent hydraulic strength development of SMET NHL 5 makes it suitable for producing lime mortars for masonry work, rendering, plastering base coats, and limecrete in extreme weather environments and exposed areas.  An eminently hydraulic lime binder for the production of mortars particularly suited for ecological new build, restoration, and preservation works in extreme weather environments and exposed areas. The product’s special composition allows the mortar product to breathe and also permits constant hygrometric exchange between the substrate and the environment.NHL binders, available directly in-store and online via our distribution partner Haldane Fisher, are particularly suited for ecological new builds, conservation, restoration, and preservation works. The products’ special composition allows mortars to breathe and permits constant hygrometric exchange between the substrate and the environment. This restoration is another showcase of sympathetic historic building restoration, using superior-quality NHL products available from SMET.Our restoration and preservation NHL is available from Haldane Fisher online. Superior quality combined with exceptional technical support and aftercare, are the key drivers in the selection of SMET natural conservation products.ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001 accredited Smet Building Products Ltd, demonstrating – once again – best practices in supporting Smet Supported Partners in Natural Hydraulic Lime products.

Crittall Corporate W20 windows are an important component in the refurbishment and upgrade of a prominent industrial site in historic Bath.Newark Works is recognised as a masterclass in the retrofitting of heritage buildings that has transformed a former riverside heavy engineering factory into 21st century workspace.The buildings, dating from 1857 to 1905, are Grade II listed and sit within Bath’s designated World Heritage Site. They were formerly the home of world-renowned crane makers Stothert & Pitt but had fallen into serious disrepair. Their location as part of a larger Bath Quays redevelopment spurred their re-use, underpinned by sensitive treatment, to create 40,000sq.ft of modern workspace.“We specified the Crittall W20 system to replace the existing, single-glazed, cast-iron framed windows that were at the end of their life and deemed beyond repair,” said Nick Brown, Director of Ferguson Mann Architects.He explained: “The Crittall W20 system was chosen due to the need to use a window system that could sympathetically reproduce the fenestration of the large industrial windows – many of which were 3.6m tall – but also provide a huge thermal improvement.”  It was recognised that retaining the original cast iron windows and introducing secondary glazing was neither economically viable nor appropriate aesthetically.“The slim profiles of the Crittall W20 system meant we didn’t have to compromise on the amazing amount of natural light coming into the interior whilst improving the air tightness and reducing the overall heat loss of the building through the windows,” said Brown.He added: “Crittall were also able to recreate the opening vent arrangement of the existing windows, meaning we could also improve the natural ventilation provision to the new workspaces.”Consulting engineers Buro Happold calculated that just replacing the existing single-glazed windows with new double-glazed alternatives with a U-value of 1.8W/m2K would result in a 16 percent annual energy saving. That translated to 21.4 tonnes of CO₂. Over the building’s lifespan of, say, 25 years, that equated to a 535-tonne reduction in CO₂ emissions.In view of the heritage credentials of the buildings, planners and conservation officers at Bath & North East Somerset Council were consulted on the desire to replace the original fenestration with like-for-like steel windows. The local authority was keen that the buildings should be brought back into use after several previous failed attempts. They wanted the site’s historic significance to be respected while avoiding the desire to turn Newark Works into a ‘museum piece’. The installation of Crittall W20 was approved and two of the original cast-iron windows have been retained and refurbished as a reminder of the original building but not in a way so as to compromise the improved thermal performance of the whole.Summing up, Nick Brown comments: “Everyone is really pleased with the final result.”

There are a lot of different official documents about the rules and regulation around fire safety and smoke ventilation, which, in turn, influence the way you should choose and install your AOVs. Building regulations are minimum standards that apply to almost all new residential and commercial buildings, and also alterations to the existing ones. If you are planning to use an Automatic Opening Smoke Vent (AOV) System in your project, you will have to comply with the regulations mentioned.

When renowned house-builders, McAllister Developments were tasked with delivering a distinctive and upmarket detached residential scheme at Moneymore, they turned to AG.Working closely with the experienced team at McAllister we were able to provide a range of brick, paving and retaining walling products in a variety of complementary colour blends to help create a truly standout residential development.The highly-regarded Heritage facing brick was selected due to its hand-crafted aesthetic appeal and its renowned durability. The retaining wall used was Anchor® Diamond®, with caps, as it allows for fast installation and it blends in perfectly with the surrounding garden.The Long Stone Fiammata is AG’s newest range of premium, porcelain-effect plank paving and was chosen for its unique minimalist design style and ease of maintenance. Finally, for the paving AG favoured the Rosemount flag for its extreme strength and low slip potential.David Speirs, Head of Specification and Commercial Sales believes they met all the project criteria:“Using our vast experience and range of products for use within the residential market we were able to provide perfect colour blends and styles that complemented each other to help the developer achieve the goal of building an upmarket detached residential site.”

Project: Three Rivers Academy Client:Surrey County Council Contractor:Bam Construction Architect: Scott Brownrigg Value: £27.1m Location:Walton-on-Thames, Surrey Innovaré Completion Date: February 2021 GIFA m²: 7,456m²COMPLEX REQUIREMENTS AND BESPOKE DESIGN TO STRINGENT BUDGET CONSTRAINTS Commissioned by the Surrey based Multi-Academy Trust the brief was to realise the vision of creating a world class learning environment. The proposed design took advantage of Innovaré’s SIP technology to balance the client’s desire for a dramatic 3-YEAR ENGAGEMENT TO DEVELOP THE RIGHT DESIGN Innovaré were approached by engineers Arup at the early design stage for their offsite expertise, to fulfil the distinctive design brief for a 16,000m2 new build. The Academy was set out as series of distinct spaces under a single roof to house teaching facilities, library, drama and sports centre. Working closely with architects Scott Brownrigg a design solution was developed that combined 4 mono-pitched wings off a central spine, where SIPs would be used to make the required cost savings. The Innovaré SIP wrap system would be used to over clad part of the building’s concrete frame, providing an insulating layer and airtightness line. The design phase also involved the tailoring of the panels to the bespoke design requirements, so as not to compromise on the original vision. Through value engineering and early engagement, Innovaré provided a simplified, energy efficient, cost-effective solution for the project. The use of SIP ensured that the structure was weather-tight in under 18 weeks, ensuring that the project was completed within the required timescales as well as budget without compromising on delivering a striking new facility. The school has already received excellent feedback from the pupils, teachers and parents for the difference it is making to the teaching and learning process.

10 Sation Road is a unique office building beside Cambridge station. Its vibrant and sustainable design provides an unrivalled opportunity for businesses to join the cluster of world-class firms in Cambridge’s central business district.As part of the new building, we worked alongside Cube Install Ltd to manufacture and install Helmsman Z Lockers with seat stands for workers to store personal belongings. As part of the project, we provided 46, to accommodate 92 employees, the bespoke Z Lockers are wet specifications so the lockers are suitable for areas with high humidity.The specifications of the 46 bespoke Z lockers were 1450mm high, 298mm wide with 1mm rivets and 450mm deep. Bespoke Z Locker were installed with seat stands, allowing the employees to sit whilst changing shoes rather than having to balance when standing.The stunning Z lockers were manufactured with aluminium body, and stainless steel frames with laminate, in our carbon neutral range, ‘English Oak’. The 23 carcasses of the lockers were powder coated in our standard range ‘Yellow’ and the remaining 23 in ‘Rockpool’. The cantilevered seat slats were in ‘English Oak’ allowing the stands to match the lockers, to keep the project’s aesthetic atmosphere.The locks chosen for the project were the KitLock 1000. These are a great choice for both assigned and new users each day, so they are perfect for shared changing rooms at 10 Station Road. Additionally, it compliments the lockers with the laminate used.It was great to work alongside Cube Install Ltd on this project, look forward to some more exciting projects in the future.If you are looking for bespoke Z Lockers, or have a similar project you need help with, our sales team can help. Contact us today at 01284 530496 or click here to get your quote.

Clement EB24 steel windows, doors and screens were the ideal choice of fenestration when it came to this jaw-dropping project in Arundel. The combination of T bars, slim, dark frames and satin chrome accessories create just the right look.Achieving such an exceptional appearance did not mean that performance had to be compromised. The 24mm insulated glass units are not only argon filled, but also include a Silverstar E glass coating. Chosen for its thermal insulation layers which lower both the thermal loss of the glass and energy consumption while allowing high light transmission.Our client explained the project and her experience of Clement Windows:“When we finally made our decision to modify and extend our 16th century, Grade II building, we knew that we had a challenge on our hands. We owed it to the history and unique position of the existing premises to choose first class materials and workmanship.Our brief to the architect was that we really needed to maximise natural light as my husband has sight issues. The building faces north, north east so this was going to be really tricky. The windows were going to be big!The search for the best then began and luckily some clients of ours recommended Clement Windows. We visited the showroom, liked what we saw and began the design and surveying process. The quality of the steel, the finish and the fit were head and shoulders above anything else that we had looked at. We wanted an unfussy, minimalist profile inside and out. Simple lines and workmanship one could trust. Clement ticked all the boxes.A few months later the team showed up to fit the glass. We did have certain logistical issues relating to access but these were overcome with good planning. At the end of two weeks, we had a home! The installation of the glass transformed a building site into an incredible, light-filled architectural space that then became the most stunning home we could ever have dreamed of living in.”

The Ecclesiastical cast iron floor grille isn't used exclusively in churches, cathedrals or abbeys. We've supplied these beautiful Scottish made gratings to a number of religious buildings across the country that's for sure but their main use is in "ordinary" period properties and listed buildings. Buildings with large heating pipes sunk into the floor with suspended walkways. Places like Stansted and Rotherfield Hall or National Trust, Mount Stewart Property in County Down and Halls in Melton Mowbray and Stoke on Trent. To make a real feature or for a sympathetic restoration why not take a look ...

In densely populated urban areas of the cities, where the number of floors in housing is sometimes limited and private gardens are rare, a rooftop terrace or patio is becoming a popular design choice. However, many residential buildings with rooftop gardens don’t see much daylight and careful consideration is required to determine an access point to the roof terrace. For such rooftop projects, a new dimension of roof access is offered by the LAMILUX Flat Roof Access Hatch Comfort range, designed to give a generous daylight intake in attic apartments alongside convenient access to the roof terrace creating an air of grace and beauty both internally and externally. The LAMILUX Flat Roof Access Hatch Comfort range now introduces its fourth product into the family, giving more choice and flexibility when creating a luxurious living space with an exclusive ambience. Featuring unrestricted use as a natural ventilation device and convenient access to the roof terrace, the indoor climate also benefits from the high energy efficiency of the range thanks to the thermally broken frame and excellent air tightness values.The existing Solo and Duo Flat Roof Access Hatch products from LAMILUX open laterally by moving one or two panels horizontally to create direct access to step onto the roof terrace, whilst the space-saving hinged opening Swing variant swiftly opens its one meter by 3000 or 3500 mm long aperture to 84 degrees in just 25 seconds. The fourth, and newest addition to the Access Hatch Comfort repertoire the Square, makes it possible, for the first time, to also use spiral and platform staircases underneath. Until now, access to the roof was limited to straight stairways due to the elongated rectangular shape of the roof access hatch range. The Square only takes 45 seconds for the concealed hydraulic drives to silently open the 4m² glass element of the skylight by 70 degrees. As with the Swing, the new variant does not require any additional space on the roof terrace than its own size in closed form, even when open, thanks to its swing mechanism.   Visually, the aluminium border frame throughout the product family, attracts attention as an architectural highlight. The aluminum profiles and the reveal surface can be coated in all RAL colours offering further choice and exclusivity. Since the glass panes and frame feature a flush edge detail both internally and externally, and all variants are designed with an inclined surface, the range boasts not only a visually appealing seamless design, but also ensures that rainwater can run-off easily without leaving any dirty edges or water ponding. Safety is standard in the Flat Roof Access Hatch Comfort product family with fall-resistant glazing which can be walked on to a limited extent for cleaning purposes. As an additional safety feature, a light barrier is installed as standard which prevents the closing of the access hatch as soon as it detects something in the entrance area. In terms of energy, the new roof access hatch continues the tradition of all LAMILUX skylights: The overall system, which is free of thermal bridges and isothermally balanced and the option of special glazing meets modern demands for sustainability, energy efficiency and climate protection which ultimately save heating costs and minimizes condensation. All four products in this family have one further thing in common: They are delivered completely pre-assembled to the construction site, lifted onto the roof by a crane provided by the customer and then installed swiftly and easily. This minimizes the risk of errors and saves valuable time – both for the contractor and for the apartment user who ultimately gains access to the roof terrace. 

Triton Square is an office building in London’s West End. It was originally designed in the 1990’s and has recently been transformed to suit today’s workstyles.The re-development included doubling the floor area and creating an exemplary sustainable and healthy workplace. It was essential that BREEAM guidelines were met. Large quantities of bespoke taps and soap dispensers were needed within a tight delivery timeframe. Water saving technology was also a major requirement.We worked closely with our customer to understand their goals and how best to achieve them. Our specifications teams discussed which products would be suitable, fit in with the contemporary design and would meet all regulatory requirements and presented options and recommendations. Our WRAS approved Electroflo Horizon touch-free electronic taps and soap dispensers were chosen due to their water-saving features, hygienic operation and modern style. The products were delivered and installed within budget and timescales.Testimonial“We had an urgent requirement for contemporary, water-saving bathroom products from a trusted supplier to conform with BREEAM regulations. We needed to successfully adopt a sustainable solution in a cost-effective manner. The Dudley Electroflo Horizon range was perfect for the job and they could also offer us an extended size and a variety of finishes. The expertise and service from the staff at TYDE were second to none and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.”

Procheck A2, the high-performance fire-resistant vapour control layer system from the A. Proctor Group has been selected as part of a £6bn regeneration project that will create over 10,000 homes in Enfield, London, over the next 20 years.Leading regeneration specialist Vistry Partnerships has been appointed for the first phase of the Meridian Water scheme working in partnership with Enfield Council. Meridian One will see the development of 1,000 new homes with a mixed tenure of private sale, private rent (PRS) and 50% affordable housing spanning 13 blocks ranging in height from four to twelve storeys. In addition, the scheme incorporates 2,235m2 of employment space and over 2 hectares of green, parkland and open space.Sam Bennett, Commercial Director at SCL LONDON, a Structural Framing Systems and Drylining specialist, commented.“Procheck A2 was selected because it has a Class A2 performance and excellent vapour-controlling properties. In addition, the membrane comes with a high vapour resistance and is airtight, allowing its use as an AVCL.This means that Procheck A2 provides high levels of airtightness which ensures the thermal efficiency of the building.”“Procheck A2 has an A2-s1,d0 fire classification to BS EN 13501-1, is considered limited combustibility and minimal contribution to fire, and therefore, conforms with the requirements for high rise construction (18m).” The superior performance of Procheck A2 from the A. Proctor Group is the perfect solution, delivering significant benefits to the combination of in-factory manufacture and on- site housing construction.Procheck A2 comprises a unique design consisting of a glass fibre backing with a pure aluminium foil and clear lacquer coating. It is this clear surface which provides Procheck A2 with the added benefit of a low emissivity surface, which, when used with a service cavity, can enhance the overall thermal performance of the building fabric, as well as ensure a high fire protection performance, with an A2-s1,d0 fire classification. Procheck A2 is designed to protect the building fabric from the potential risks of condensation whilst providing the added benefit of serving as an effective airtight barrier.Sam Bennett added,“the technical team at the A. Proctor Group supported us throughout and provided comprehensive installation guides giving vital information for both operatives and clients and helping with sign-off at specific hold points throughout the project.” Based on years of investigation, research and development, the A. Proctor Group can offer a superior range of technically advanced membranes to address the safe design of fire solutions in building construction.The installation of Procheck A2 will ensure a high level of protection throughout the building’s lifespan.

400m2 of ARDITEX NA provided the perfect levelling and smoothing solution for one of the most treasured and distinctive buildings in the UK.

Lakeside Developments is a unique development offering a selection of six to seven storied apartments, semi-detached and detached houses situated in Coleraine. The homes have been designed to exceed expectations of modern buyers. A cost-effective, aesthetically pleasing, and sustainable facing brick was required to complete the scheme.The exclusive housing development has been ‘highly commended’ in the sustainability category at the Placemaking Awards which celebrates projects, plans, people and organisations that are making places better.The unique project, described as one of the most unique and visionary civil engineering projects ever attempted in the UK, has transformed the 42-acre redundant quarry into a modern housing development with a lake, which was formed using water that had been pumped out of the site.According to Alan Patterson Design the project demonstrates its environmental credentials through its ‘engineering initiative and excellence’ in the re-use of the redundant basalt quarry to meet present day housing needs.AG’s facing brick Woodward in Ashbrooke Smooth was chosen due to its hard-wearing capabilities and long-lasting colour retention. The smooth finish of the brick gives a modern appearance to the houses.Additionally, Homepave Cobble Paving was selected for the walkways and garden of the new development. Due to its rumbled surface, it provides a charming additional to the scheme

Pyrobel Vision Line fire-resistant glazed screens for EI30 (30 minutes integrity and insulation)