"wall light"

Recent economic growth in Cambridgeshire has led to huge demand for new educational facilities. An ambitious £37.5 million Littleport complex comprising special educational needs (SEN) and primary schools, an Academy and a leisure centre is nearing completion. Rockfon ceilings, baffles and wall panels are installed throughout the Academy and the SEN school which opened their doors in 2017. Rockfon products were chosen because they offer excellent sound control, Class A1 fire safety, durability and are environmentally friendly.

Built on the historic Iffley Road track where Sir Roger Bannister broke the four-minute mile. This state of the art multi sports facility is part of the Acer Nethercott Sports Centre built by Beard Construction, which was part of the Universities new redesign. The walling was split in two sections; from 1.8m up hosts our Topperfo 16/16/8 (aw 0.75, Absorption Class C, NRC 0.90) whilst the lower section has had the Topperfo plain installed. Both with a European Oak Veneer both installed to withstand impact according to DIN 18032.

Senior’s Ali FOLD sliding folding doors have been installed at a private home in Leeds, West Yorkshire, to enhance the renovation of the kitchen and living space.The homeowners chose to install Ali FOLD doors because of their attractive sleek appearance with slim sightlines which let in maximum daylight.With a vast choice of colours available via Senior’s in-house powder coating facility, the owners were also able to choose a colour which complemented their internal décor, adding to the overall colour scheme.The new Ali FOLD doors have transformed the living space, bathing the interior with light and providing uninterrupted views of the garden that can be enjoyed both day and night.The homeowners have been particularly impressed with how easy the doors are to open and by the flexibility of being able to open one or multiple door leaves depending on the desired level of access.Ali FOLD’s exceptional thermal performance has also delighted the couple, helping to retain heat and giving the renovated room a homely cosy feel. With a life expectancy in excess of 40 years, Senior’s Ali FOLD aluminium doors have been designed to be easy to fabricate, install and maintain and are available as a folding sliding bi-fold style as well as both single and double doors.

Located within the epicentre of central London, Sixty London Wall delivers high quality Grade A office accommodation combined with superior retail opportunities, all housed within a visually striking contemporary development that stands apart from neighbouring buildings.Delivering 325,000 sq. ft of premium office space over 10 floors, the extensively renovated property offers collaborative working areas, bolstered by first class end of journey facilities for commuters, including 380 cycle spaces and lockers and 38 showers and changing rooms.As part of the construction process, almost 500 Profab Access high quality riser doors and access panels have been installed throughout the entire building by specialist carpentry, joinery and fit-out contractors, JJ Sweeney.Specified in a range of sizes and configurations for installation throughout the communal areas and washrooms on every floor, Profab Access’ robust and resilient INTEGRA 4000 Series and VISION 8000 Series fire-rated Riser Doors provide concealed access to mechanical and electrical services.

Schools, colleges and campuses with an ever-increasing intake of students often outgrow the buildings originally designed for them. As a consequence, our education sites can consist of increasingly disparate faculty buildings extending far beyond a central hub. These are usually connected by a network of outdoor walkways that get crossed many times a day, in all weathers. Shelter for these walkways is a necessity but innovative designs can offer much more beside.Queensmead is an ambitious school that is committed to seeking the best for all its students. The forward-looking and dynamic co-educational academy to over 1,400 students aged 11-18 was recognised by the Department for Education for being in the top 5% nationally for student progress in 2016.Consisting of 15 detached buildings spread across a large site, access to buildings requires students and staff to cross a number of interconnected covered walkways on a daily basis. When these concrete covered walkways needed replacing, Queensmead sought a cost-effective alternative with the functionality to shelter the network of walkways and the scope to offer increased covered breakout space for the students to meet, eat and relax together. Particular care was required for heating pipes and cables that needed to be protected during the extensive demolition phase and incorporated in to the new design.“We’ve been delighted with the insightful but flexible design process and the speed and efficiency of each installation phase for this complex canopy project. The modern design, with integrated lighting, has re-invigorated our walkways and the additional sheltered breakout space has been a big hit with our students.”David Patterson, School Business Manager, Queensmead SchoolStreetspace came up with an over-arching solution that met the site plan requirements and the broad scope of the project, allowing considerable changes in length and width of the canopies, and a single-source approach which ensured both time and money were saved. The bespoke product has enabled the evolving project to be completed in phases, with the third and largest phase of the canopy completed over a 5 week period during the 2017 summer holiday.The TRITON canopies are installed with an opaque triple-wall polycarbonate roof system allowing good light transmission without the glare of clear versions. The curved canopy design exceeds the shelter provided by the demolished walkway covers and their extended reach, factored in the designs, has generated significant amounts of sheltered breakout space for Queensmead pupils. Working to time frames factoring in school holidays, disruption for staff and pupils has been kept to a minimum.By identifying the latent potential of their walkways and working closely with our expert designers at Streetspace, Queensmead upgraded their archaic network of concrete walkways with a modern design; bringing cohesion and unity across the site. The inclusion of recessed lights added welcome security and the extended canopy design not only provided improved shade and shelter but year round social space.

The MicroSlat System was specified in three areas of this premium development, each space requiring very unique shapes. Bespoke spacing was required in order to accommodate LED strips between the grooves. The client ordered MicroSlat 25-18 that was spray finished to a high quality sheen using a bespoke lacquer finish to match other materials at the site. Black slat core and black acoustic backing complete the look to help transform the interior. MicroSlat was specified as it's a lightweight, modular system that's easy to install, which provides excellent acoustic absorption for a space with such high ceilings.

This case study explores the construction process of a soundproof home theatre, designed to provide an immersive audio and visual experience while minimizing sound leakage. By implementing a combination of construction techniques and acoustic materials, the goal was to create an environment that offers optimal sound isolation and absorption, ensuring an exceptional cinematic experience for the homeowners.Building a Wooden Frame on a Concrete Base:To establish a sturdy foundation, a wooden frame was constructed on top of a concrete base. This frame served as the structural support for the subsequent soundproofing components.Installing Acoustic Mineral Wool:Acoustic mineral wool, known for its excellent sound absorption properties, was inserted into all the joists, floors, walls, and ceilings. This step helped to minimize sound transmission through these surfaces, preventing sound leakage and echoes, essential for a soundproof home theatre.Creating Soundproof Speaker Boxes:Soundproof speaker boxes were constructed using acoustic plasterboard and Tecsound viscoelastic membrane. These materials were chosen for their ability to reduce vibration and sound transmission, resulting in clearer and more accurate audio reproduction.Installing MuteClip and Channel Sound Isolation Clips:To further enhance sound isolation, MuteClip and channel sound isolation clips were installed on the walls and ceilings. These clips effectively decoupled the surfaces from the underlying structure, preventing sound vibrations from traveling through the building’s framework.Installing Double Layers of Acoustic Plasterboard:Double layers of acoustic plasterboard were installed, with a layer of viscoelastic membrane sandwiched in between. This construction technique helps to create an additional barrier against sound transmission, improving overall soundproofing performance.Installing Double Layers of Acoustic Plasterboard:After completing the soundproofing components, the necessary audiovisual equipment was installed. This included lights, speakers, a projector, and a screen, strategically positioned to optimize audio and visual immersion within the theatre space.Installing Acoustic Absorption Panels:To achieve optimal sound quality, acoustic absorption panels were installed on the walls. These panels were carefully placed to reduce sound reflections and enhance the soundproof home theatre’s acoustics. To maintain a cohesive aesthetic, the panels were wrapped in black fabric to blend seamlessly with the theatre’s decor.ConclusionThe construction of a soundproof home theatre involves a systematic approach, utilizing various soundproofing materials and techniques. By following the steps outlined in this case study, homeowners can create a dedicated space that delivers exceptional sound isolation, immersive audiovisual experiences, and optimal viewing pleasure, transforming their home into a soundproof home theatre haven.

High volume of traffic, heavy use, accessibility and easy cleaning – contemporary sanitary facilities in schools are subject to very demanding requirements. Due to the fact that ceramic tiles have proven their worth as a practical and attractive covering for walls and floors in these settings, the PRO ARCHITECTURA system concept from Villeroy & Boch Tiles was used for the renovation of various sanitary areas in the Cologne-Zündorf school centre. At the Zündorf school centre in Cologne-Porz – comprising Lessing high school, Wilhelm-Busch secondary school and Johann-Amos-Comenius general secondary school – a total of approx. 1,800 students are taught by nearly 140 teachers. The school buildings were constructed in the 1970s, and have been continuously extended ever since. In 2016, work included the spatial optimisation and modernisation of the approx. 250 m² toilet facilities in the main building. The Cologne architecture firm spies architekten developed a colour concept for this project that combines a light and a dark shade of a colour in each setting, to create harmonious contrasts in each area. The resulting colour schemes offer different looks: more feminine rust shades, masculine blues, and fresh variants of green and turquoise. Accessibility requirements were also taken into account. The white sanitary elements are mounted on the darker colours in order to ensure a stark contrast with the walls, allowing them to be more easily recognised even by those with impaired vision. PRO ARCHITECTURA from Villeroy & Boch Tiles made it possible to successfully implement the architects’ design specifications. The colour matrix offers a broad spectrum of classic and contemporary colours in a variety of gradations, while the modular formats on a 100-mm grid provide additional planning scope. This allowed 10 x 10 cm tiles to be laid in staggered arrangements that bring the wall joints to life. The PRO ARCHITECTURA range is equally impressive from a practical standpoint: The ceramic tiles are durable, scratch- and crack-resistant, and do not wear down, even after decades of use. They are also easy to clean and particularly hygienic, as their surfaces are so dense that micro-organisms hardly stand a chance. The ceramic material itself does not give off any vapours, nor does it take on smells, which means that it is also recommended in terms of building biology. And, tiles from Villeroy & Boch are sustainable, because they are made entirely of natural components that occur naturally in almost unlimited quantities, are manufactured by means of environment-friendly processes and are completely recyclable.

Job: Maldron Hotel Swimming Pool Renovation, Portlaoise, Co. Laois.Smet Supported Partner:Precision Building Services – Mark PembertonProducts: Sopro Rapidur® B5 Rapid Drying Screed BinderMerlin Barrier CoatSopro RAM 3 (454) Renovation and Levelling MortarSopro GD 749 Universal Floor and Wall PrimerSopro DSF® 523 Tanking MembraneSopro PUK 503 PU AdhesiveSopro VF HF 420 – VarioFlex® High Strength Flexible Tile AdhesiveSopro’s No. 1 Flexible Tile AdhesiveSopro FKM® XL 444 – Extra Light Weight Tile AdhesiveSopro Sanitary SiliconeSopro DE 014/015 Sealing CornersSopro FEP 508Sopro DBF-638Racofix 818Description:SMET supplied Smet Supported Partner, Precision Building Services (Mark Pemberton), for the renovation of the Maldron Hotel Swimming Pool, Portlaoise, Co. Laois. A total area of Floor screed @ 140m² | Wall tiling @125m² | Floor tiling @ 140 m² was completed.New floor installation with fast-track – rapid drying floor screed solution, using Sopro Rapidur® B5 Rapid Drying Screed Binder, a fast-setting screed which was laid to falls prior to waterproofing and tiling providing an early completion. German-made Rapidur® B5 Rapid Drying Screed Binder is a special polymer-modified binder for particularly economical ­production of high-strength, rapid-set cement screed – based on DIN 18560.Rapidur® B5 is suitable for use on heated screeds, bonded screeds, unbonded screeds and floating screeds. This flooring solution is particularly useful for fast-track or tightly scheduled screed laying. The newly laid Rapidur® B5 screed floor is ready to receive floor covering after approx. 3 days – after achievement of moisture content ≤ 1.8 % CM. Sopro Rapidur® B5 is supplied in 25kg bags, with 40 bags per pallet.Sopro Rapidur® B5 was installed directly on top of Merlin Barrier Coat wet on wet. The screed was ready for waterproofing/tiling after 3 days. This system was also used to repair the Jacuzzi’s surrounding walls prior to waterproofing, tiling, and grouting.Sopro RAM 3 levelled the deck area (3-60mm) between the drainage channel edge and pool perimeter movement joint. Sopro RAM 3 was bonded with Sopro GD 749.

CUPA PIZARRAS’ CUPA 18 natural slate has been used to achieve a high-quality finish on three luxury, modern, new build properties in one of the most desirable areas of Whitstable in Kent. The new properties, built by local property designer and developer specialist Kapra Developments, are located in Island Wall, Whitstable, close to both the town centre and the scenic Kent coastline. The three storey, five bedroom luxury properties are each in excess of 360 square metres and benefit from views over the nearby golf course.  The unique design of the houses features extensive use of dark grey aluminium glazing systems including rooftop lanterns and large sloping roof windows. The placement of the expansive glazing as well as the layout and orientation of the buildings was devised to maximize the natural light and make the most of the surrounding landscape. In addition to the CUPA 18 natural slate, the design also includes high quality natural timber cladding, sedum green roofing and natural stone blockwork. Kim Brown, Director at Kapra Developments explained: “For the properties on Island Wall, the quality of the materials was very important and the coastal location meant that a durable product was essential. We had used CUPA PIZARRAS’ products on previous projects and so we were confident that the CUPA 18 slate would provide the look, quality and longevity we wanted.” CUPA 18 is a lighter grey slate with a smooth matt surface and has a superior, homogenous finish with only minor variations allowed in the thickness and flatness of the slate. The slate roofs were installed by Bates (Kent), a family owned contractor based near Canterbury, who has worked with Kapra Developments on a number of previous projects. David Clarke, Company Secretary at Bates said: “The Island Wall properties presented a few complexities and challenges due to the steep pitch of the roof and the need to integrate the slate with the other elements such as the large format glazing.  “We’ve used CUPA products on a number of contracts and found the slates very easy to work with. The strength and quality of the slates means that we are able to reduce the amount of wastage compared with other products.” Kim Brown concluded: “To achieve the intended result for these properties has required hard work from everyone involved. We are once again delighted with CUPA PIZARRAS’ products and are pleased with how that element of the build has progressed.” CUPA PIZARRAS’ natural slate is sustainably extracted from quarries in northern Spain. It has an exceptional life span of 100 years and requires minimal maintenance throughout its lifetime.

The National Trust was looking for ways to improve its facilities and services, especially the public toilet block at Lacock. The block was was in poor condition, with no hot water or heating, poor lighting, and frequent blockages. The toilets had received numerous complaints, and so the National Trust wanted to upgrade the facilities.“Previously we had tiled walls which were very cold and not easy to clean as well as suffering from condensation. We had a lot of technical issues as well as issues with the drains. The smell was always bad. We were spending a lot of hours on fixing and maintaining the urinals so these were the issues we wanted to address, alongside improving energy efficiency and lowering the environmental impact of the washrooms.”Andy Webster, Facilities Manager, North Wiltshire National TrustAt a London trade show, Anna Bradshaw met Paul from Ecoprod and Mihail from CONTI, who demonstrated smart taps and accessories that could analyze visitor data. Initially the Trust was interested just in the smart taps however after Ecoprod visited the site it became apparent that they could offer much more than just the taps. The project expanded to include a full refit of the public toilet block, with a focus on efficiency, energy-saving and low maintenance costs.The Trust wanted a solution that was energy-efficient, recyclable, and reusable, and Ecoprod offered a full package that fit these criteria. The upgrade included easy-clean, wipe-down wall coverings, a modular system that allowed for easy repairs, and water-saving taps and urinals. The Trust was able to secure funding for the upgrade because of the quality of the product and its energy and water-saving features. Efficiency of energy usage and low maintenance costs are extremely important to the National Trust so the refit was designed with these priorities in mind.“The biggest draw for me initially was the fact that the taps offered the potential to collect and analyse usage data so we could see how many users we were getting. This is important because the toilet block is in a car park outside of our pay barrier, and therefore difficult to gauge numbers. However, once we started thinking about new taps then we started thinking about improving the basins and it went from there – ultimately we decided to go for the whole refit and have a really smart new look to the loos. Because the other products were also recyclable and reusable and made the whole management of the space more efficient, we were able to secure the budget to do a full refit. The quality of the products was apparent really early on.”Anna Bradshaw, Facilities and Business Support Services“We have gone for an easy clean, wipe down modular system so that if things get damaged, as they do in a public toilet, we’re only replacing small parts rather than the whole system.”Andy WebsterWhat was included in the refit?Ecoprod supplied the National Trust with a complete building project package which included:-Strip out of old toilet blockReconfiguration of walls to create spaceNew flooring and wallingNew lighting, extraction, and heatingNew back panel systemsNew cubiclesNew URIMAT waterless urinalsNew troughs with CONTI+ Lumino tap with localised heater and Ble tool for connectivityToilets with cisterns from Siamp rangeMitsubishi hand dryersBaby changing stationFull project management Working with Ecoprod“We had a pretty clear plan on what we wanted to do and how we wanted to do it and Marcus was very accommodating. Once we got the contract signed it all came together very quickly. As always with jobs like this a few unexpected things came up but Marcus was able to deal with all of them. Whenever an issue arose I made a phone call and Marcus was on it straight away. He was very good at keeping people in the loop and communication was good throughout.”Andy WebsterThe benefits since the new toilet block opened“Previously our main source of complaints for the site were the toilets. They were cold, damp and difficult to keep well presented. For many people their first stop will be a loo visit and we were very aware it wasn’t a good first impression. Since the refit we have received no complaints and visitors are now complimenting them on how clean and bright they are. The new design means they are easier to clean, as we moved from tiles to wall cladding, and troughs rather than individual basins, plus the new non-slip floor surface makes access much safer for our visitors.”Anna Bradshaw“We are looking to grow our relationship with Ecoprod, looking at other sites where we can use this technology. The more positive results we get, the more interest we have from the rest of the National Trust. One of the Trust’s main aims is energy efficiency and climate action is a big thing for the Trust this year so anything that can help us with that is something we will be looking at with great interest.”Andy Webster

Lang+Fulton products were used extensively at The Emirates Stadium for Arsenal FC as barrier fencing, security screening, balustrading and wall cladding. The Arezzo-25 fence panels with a 76x25mm aperture were supplied with the flat bars running horizontally in order to take a loading requirement of BS6399 – 1:1996. This guaranteed its suitability for use as a barrier fence for the crowd control areas surrounding the Emirates. Alternative fixing methods combined with the versatility of the panels created continuity of design throughout the varied applications within the project.

Rockfon brings the Wow and the Ssh to Sheffield Hallam Adsetts Library Rockfon welcomed the challenge of collaborating to conceive a ground-breaking acoustic ceiling installation that not only looks great but controls sound beautifully, helping create the perfect environment for students to read and study in. Sheffield Hallam University appointed an alliance team to undertake their larger scale construction works over for the next six years, in partnership with BDP Architects, BAM Construction and CBRE Facilities Management. Adsetts Library – a vital resource and haven The library provides an impressive, balconied, multi-storey focal point for students and staff, to educate, learn, read and study in a variety of open plan and more formal spaces. Traditionally the library also provides a haven where a certain hush can be relied on by its thousands of users – something Rockfon understands the mechanics and science of more than most. BAM invited installation specialists Brebur to find a solution to the university’s needs at the library. In turn, they, approached Rockfon in order to explore options and generate plans to design and install a replacement, taking in to consideration site access and the library’s vast height, inclines and span, alongside the need to retain services for students and staff. Brainstorming a bespoke solution Brebur Commecial Director, Tommy Burke, talked about the project, “Working with the Hallam alliance team, BAM construction and our supply chain partners, Rockfon, we looked for the structural and aesthetic solution that would best fulfil the acoustic requirements. Brainstorming sessions resulted in a unique specification that would ‘tick all the boxes’ whist also improving the efficiency and performance of the building.” Rockfon Technical Manager, Tim Spencer, recalls the development and specification process, “Initially we looked at options for traditional wire-suspended ceiling islands, but these were quickly discounted due to the available space for fixing and the varying pitch of the structure. Fortunately, Rockfon had developed an innovative new direct fixing system for its Rockfon Eclipse® Islands, for use in situations of restricted height. Even so, installing islands at pitches of 45 and 60 degrees was new territory. Thoughts then turned to designing a system of grid steelwork to successfully fix the islands, which would handle the loads over a 3m span, whilst also subsequently accommodating lighting specified by the client. The answer proved to be our Chicago MetallicTM 55mm structural ‘I’ profiles positioned at 600mm centres, fixed with a unique combination of U-bolts and bracketry.” Due to the library ordinarily being open 24/7, the first national lockdown in early 2020, offered an opportunity to carry out the necessary works while the space was being less utilised. Following complete removal of the existing panels and substrate, work began to install the Rockfon scheme. The perfect fit for a unique space Around 400 1170mm x 1160mm Eclipse islands were installed throughout the library’s vast, multi-faceted space, which is four storeys high at its apex. Clear glazed roof sections to one side allow natural light to flood in and reflect against the smooth, deep-matt, super white surface of the Eclipse islands which provide high light reflection and light diffusion. Eclipse islands can be specified in a variety of shaped formats with bespoke colour matching options. They provide superior sound absorption and reduce reverberation – allowing design freedom without compromising on performance. All Rockfon ranges are made from non-hygroscopic, non-combustible, stone wool, which is impervious to most environmental pressures, embodying very high humidity resistance, up to 100% RH. Their anti-static surfaces repel dirt while providing no sustenance to harmful micro-organisms such as mould and fungi, playing an important role in limiting the spread of bacteria. Brebur’s Tommy Burke, “The project was a challenge – you can say that again – but, as ever, with the assistance of the project team and of course, Rockfon, it was successfully delivered to the highest standard, on time, within budget and to the satisfaction of the whole team.”

Castle Hill Hospital, at Cottingham near Hull, is defending busy areas of the hospital interiors from impact damage with the help of Yeoman Shield protection products.Serving the population of Hull and the East Riding of Yorkshire, the hospital has approximately 370 beds and caters for the majority of the trusts elective activity as well as housing the award- winning Queen’s Centre for Oncology and Haematology.The refurbishment of the Plastic Surgery Outpatients ground floor corridors and First floor I.C.U. corridors saw Yeoman Shield 200mm protection rail installed. The rails are fitted on a 60mm PVC “stand-off” spacers allowing them to be utilised as a handrail for those requiring it.A strengthening solid inner core ensures the rail is capable of taking the heaviest of blows from motorised or wheeled trolleys and equipment saving the wall from structural damage and marking.The vulnerable corners and terminating ends of the rail are equally protected from impact with the addition of Yeoman Shield’s new rubber, hardwearing and durable stop ends and wall return accessories.The busy catering department and corridors were also suffering from impact damage caused by the movement of the catering trolleys, food warmers and equipment. To combat costly damage to the décor Yeoman Shield 200mm protection rail has again been installed this time “flat-back” to the wall.For a hygienic yet protective finish to the walls Yeoman Shield smooth food grade wall panels were installed from floor to ceiling with extra defence in the form of the 200mm protection rail.All Yeoman Shield products were installed by directly employed Yeoman Shield fixing operatives ensuring an efficient and accurate first time fit.“The work carried out to corridors and catering department was undertaken with due consideration of each busy section of the hospital and to suit their working arrangements, including any out of hours working. All went very well and each department commented on how well the work went and how good the improvement is” Alan Parry, Estates Officer (Building).

The new Hilton Garden Inn Hotel enjoys a prime location with stunning views overlooking the Lancashire Cricket pitch at Emirates Old Trafford. To create the bright and welcoming entrance to the new hotel, Senior’s slimline SF52 aluminium curtain walling was used alongside our SPW600 aluminium casement windows and robust SPW501 aluminium commercial doors. The rooms at the rear of the hotel, which directly overlook the cricket ground, feature Senior’s patented, thermally-enhanced PURe® SLIDE aluminium sliding doors. These open onto individual balconies that can be also be used as private corporate boxes during events at the cricket ground.

Client: Highways Agency, England, with Northampton CC Main Contractor: Balfour Beatty Main Products Used: Emseal BEJSEmseal BEJS used to seal Parapet & Wing wall joints on the new A45 Dodsmoor Bridge in Northamptonshire:This new bridge forms part of the A45 Daventry Link Road at Dodmoor in Northampton, where the wing-wall joints and the parapet joints with the precast elements provided a challenge for the engineers. These joints had to be able to accommodate the anticipated high levels of movement, but the site measured widths of the joints varied from around 25-30mm up to around 100mm. The potential movement, including movement in different planes, their variable form and dimensions, were too much for any ‘normal’ preformed joints, or extruded, gun-applied, so-called ‘mastic’ joint sealants to be used. This is clearly evidenced in the inset picture, where the specified extruded sealant was already seen to be failing under this loading. Additionally, the wing-wall joints were to be back-filled with a watertight seal. Following previous experience with difficult and complex movement jointing requirements, the Balfour Beatty engineers discussed the situation with NCC and the Emseal BEJS System was identified as an ideal solution. Emseal BEJS is available in different widths that can also be precompressed further for ease of installation, it is fast and easy to install, plus importantly requires no invasive mechanical fixings.

Fern House Extra Care, built on the site of the former Bingley Hospital in West Yorkshire was designed to complement the existing streetscape and provide a wonderful living environment. The 49 extra care apartments, plus 30 residential bedrooms to support people living with dementia feature Senior’s timber and aluminium composite Hybrid range, to give the scheme a domestic and homely feel. The development also benefits from Senior’s thermally efficient SF52 aluminium curtain wall and SPW 600 windows to help reduce heating costs and maintain a pleasant ambient temperature for residents.

To help meet the client’s architectural ambitions and acoustic challenges, Rockfon acoustic ceilings were specified. In designing its new HQ DocuSign wanted to break down barriers and find new ways of working to empower employees. Open plenum ceilings, polished concrete floors and warm timber express the space’s raw, contemporary architecture. Crina Toderic – Henry J Lyons, “…a number of meeting rooms had one solid wall with the remaining three being glazed. It was agreed Rockfon® Mono® Acoustic be installed for its high sound absorption. Being completely seamless, the system allowed us to easily integrate with the rest of the interior aesthetic.”

The Shield is a £18.4m development located on the east side of Newcastle city centre - a regeneration area previously occupied by light industrial buildings, a brick-build office and a warehouse. Comprising of three blocks of student accomodation extending seven storeys at Stoddard Street to the east, this scheme steps down to four storeys at Clarence Street to the west.This building features a refined palette of materials including brick, aluminium and bronze coloured cladding in a range of natural colours to animate the facade. Visible aluminium frame windows punctuate the mass of three blocks and provide a significant aesthetic impact. Installed in a vertical configuration to contrast with the cladding's horizontal lines, side-hung, open-out windows were mostly used with some top-hung, open-out vents - all fitted with exclusive TECHNAL hardware including locking handles and releasable restrictors. Visible Grid Curtain walling is also utilised in this project for its durability and design flexibility. Featured to enhance daylighting in communal spaces, it was installed at ground level alongside aluminium doors, and at height alongside the windows - adding interest by visually zig-zagging on alternate floors.Within walking distance of Northumbria University's City Campus East, and the main Newcastle University Campus, The Shield offers a mix of self-contained studio flats and en-suite bedrooms with shared kitchens and houses up to 400 students.

Solid wood floor specialist Junckers worked closely with world-renowned architects BIG (Bjarne Ingles Group), to create a custom finished oak floor for the M/S Maritime Museum in Helsingør, Denmark. The textured floor acts a link within the interior scheme of the award winning building, bringing together elements of concrete, glass and steel, housed in an amazing 150 metre long, old concrete dock. The architects’ brief was for a solid hardwood floor that can withstand the heavy footfall of a national museum, with a rustic quality to soften the raw and patinated concrete and large glass panels featured throughout the building. Junckers created a textured finish solid oak floor, which gives contrasting warmth to the overall impression of the museum. By using a specially developed hard brushing technique, the outer sapwood layer of the timber is removed, leaving a tactile, textured surface to expose the beautiful grain patterns naturally inherent in oak. The floor is finished in Junckers Ultra Matt Lacquer resulting in a matt, very hard-wearing floor. The lively two-strip oak floors really come into their own in the large, open spaces of the museums galleries. When natural light from the floor to ceiling glass wall hits the surface of the floor at an angle, it creates a spectacular effect. Following the immense success of the project, Junckers has added the incredible textured finish to many of its floors, both two-strip and wide board planks.

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.

Pinewood Studio in Cardiff may be the location where Dr Who regularly saves the Universe but there was no intergalactic crisis when the building’s 16,000m2 roof needed to be refurbished recently. Instead, Sika Liquid Plastics’ Sikalastic® 625 cold applied liquid membrane provided the ideal solution to protect the building from Wales’ famously wet climate while enabling a low key project that didn’t disrupt filming on the many Hollywood movies and acclaimed TV shows filmed there, which have included James Bond, Harry Potter and Sherlock. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ayB4ekA7FfM&feature=youtu.be

Peter and Margaret Watling couldn’t be happier with the Stannah Midilift SL platform lift installed in their brand-new designer home in the Devon village of Bishopsteignton. The house has been designed and built to their exact requirements—with the platform lift a hedge-betting essential that will give freedom of movement should the stairs become non-negotiable. It’s called future-proofing and it’s catching on big time with enterprising homeowners and developers alike

With a proven track record of providing a robust and compliant solution to the education sector, our PURe® aluminium windows have been extensively used for this new build school in Leicester.The new Avanti Fields School has been designed by architects Maber and provides a full range of facilities for nursery, primary and secondary education. Part of the Avanti Fields School Trust, the new school is one of 14 Avanti schools across the UK. The ethos of the Hindu faith school is one that promotes both spiritual and educational growth, and is open to children of all faiths and none. The inclusive nature of the school is also reflected in the design of the building, with an integrated sports hall and a light, bright interior.The school has been built by BAM Construction, with our PURe® aluminium windows installed by supply chain partner Red Systems. The use of our PURe® aluminium windows has not only ensured compliance with Part L of the Building Regulations but has provided the school with a low maintenance solution for preventing heat loss and reducing energy bills.The safe and secure style of the PURe® aluminium windows makes them ideally suited for use in the education sector, boosting daylighting and creating a comfortable learning environment.

We supplied and installed over 500m² of Jakob Webnet for the new build sports hall at St Dominic’s College in Harrow. The Webnet, now clad with climbing plants has created a free-standing green wall which provides shade to the building and effectively disguises it, allowing it to blend in to the surrounding grounds.

Four Glazing Vision Three Wall Box Rooflights were specified on four modern new build homes in the heart of Los Angeles which have provided the clients with access to the terrace which would have otherwise not been possible. The Three Wall Box Rooflights fit perfectly with the modern aesthetic and were chosen to not only give access to the roof deck, but to also increase the amount of natural daylight entering each home.“We think the finished rooflights look great as crowns to each of our buildings. They will be a nice addition to these homes and hopefully inspire developers and homeowners to spread the word throughout Southern California regarding the benefits of the rooflights too!” – Michael Wilson-Katsibas, Partner, KAP Studios.Following the demolition of the existing 1200 sq. ft bungalow, the remaining site was still relatively cramped considering the bungalow was being replaced by four new dwellings. In order to provide enough living space and retain the beautiful views of the Los Angeles skyline, KAP Studios had to come up with a creative solution to achieve their brief.To make the most of the small, 8,400 sq. ft plot, KAP Studios incorporated a basement and terrace area into each home which transformed the buildings from two-stories to four-stories, which helped unlock the full potential of these beautiful homes in Culver City.Starting from the ground up, the basement is partially sunk beneath the pavement and accommodates two parking spaces, meaning more space has been granted to the garden area at ground level. This gives each home its own private back garden, as opposed to a less visually impressive driveway. It also includes a pantry and wine store to round off the basement area. The second floors are occupied by an en-suite bedroom which includes a balcony area overlooking a collection of beautiful LA properties.The east side of the bedroom houses an equally impressive bathroom, making it the second Master Bedroom in the homes. The terraces of each building are by far the most unique feature of the homes. With over 20 years of experience in roof access rooflights, Glazing Vision were engaged to help with this important part of the project. Operated by the touch of a button, our Three Wall Box Rooflights were fixed to the existing building structures at the back and either end. The rooflights take up only 170 square feet on top of the roof, leaving the client with a vast amount of additional living space which can be utilised all year round. Our rooflights are installed by our very own expert installation team.“We wanted to both feature the stairs as light shafts to illuminate the interior spaces throughout the day with the California sunlight as well as allow for seamless roof deck access for the future residents.” – Michael Wilson-Katsibas, Director, KAP Studios.Our Three Wall Box Rooflights are a perfect example of how Glazing Vision can help you utilise your roof space whilst providing your home with added natural daylight.

Project DescriptionThe refurbishment of the historic Central Bank site into the iconic Central Plaza, which is a multi-phase scheme, is one of the largest and most prestigious construction projects being carried out in Dublin city centre, Ireland.Partel was playing its part since the early stages of the restoration, and this year brought again its expertise in fire-rated vapour control systems, supporting the latest expansion scheme of the building with a two-storey glass-roofed structure, that completes the existing tower.Teaming up with Castle Group, the plan for roof expansion involved passive fire protection measures and an appropriate airtightness strategy, using Partel’s IZOPERM PLUS A2 vapour control system.Steel Roof Structure and Internal WallThe design of the new steel roof construction has a complex geometric structure, following the exposed suspensions of the building – with cantilevering triangles. It consists of multiple steel RHS that are connected to each other by hidden connections. The contemporary structure is a monolithic steel frame without expansion joints. Quite a challenge in regard to thermal expansion. For this project, fire protection of the roof structure and internal wall assemblies were top priorities, considering the specific requirements regarding stability, structural integrity and fire safety in the building.Airtightness and Fire ProtectionPartel’s Euroclass A2-s1,d0 product system – IZOPERM PLUS A2 membrane and ECHOSEAL ALU FR adhesive tape – were used in order to improve the fabric performance. The solid walls had to be airtight, insulated, and fire-resistant in order to ensure that what was designed could be delivered.The team chose to deliver airtightness measure to external walls with an appropriate fire-rated vapour control system, such as IZOPERM PLUS A2, with high durability, mechanical strength, and moisture management properties. With unrivalled low emissivity of 0.05, the reflective surface can dramatically improve the thermal performance and prevent heat radiation. The team wanted to make sure a tested and compliant solution will be implemented, and the products will perform in a scenario where the building is exposed to a fire.In addition, fire safety in this tall, high-risk building with a large number of visitors and tenants, with open spaces and mobility consideration, the IZOPERM PLUS A2 fire-rated membrane plays a crucial role when incorporated into the wider fire engineering strategy. The membrane offers superior levels of fire performance and a very limited contribution to fire, furthermore, during a fire it will not pose a risk of smoke inhalation for people, as it produces minimal to no smoke and does not release flaming droplets.Sealing the membrane overlaps using Partel ECHOSEAL ALU A2 non-combustible adhesive tape, secured the level of airtightness and fire-resistance. This aluminium foil tape provides excellent cohesion, adhesion, and thermal stability, serving as an excellent barrier against moisture, and flame.The steel roof construction was covered with 152 glass units to facilitate maximum light.Designed by the Henry J. Lyons Architects, the rooftop venue incorporates a 360° viewing terrace of 15,500 sq ft, a crowning touch of this modern restoration project.The previous phase scheme of the Central Plaza redevelopment improved the energy efficiency of the building, airtightness and thermal performance using the ECHOFOIL IZO membrane together with CONEXO MULTISEAL adhesive tape.

A refurbishment of a hospital restaurant, where the look and feel of ceramic tiles was required without the high level of ongoing maintenance that this material demands. The solution a 3D digital image depicting tiling was agreed giving the area a crisp clean hygienic finish with low level maintenance requirements.

The Architects involved in the design of the new Marriott hotel at Aberdeen airport really understood the need for a solution for the kitchens which ticked all the boxes. Beplas’s Elite FRP was the product chosen to line the extensive kitchen areas because it holds the ultimate combination of fire rating, low smoke development, clean-ability and durability.

Based in Cheltenham, Collicutt Meats is the largest meat depot in the South West. After almost 30 years, the Elite FRP panels and fixings that were fitted are still looking and performing as good as new.

ROCKFON has successfully worked together with Global Contract Interiors, Kier Construction and Architects Seymour Harris, to establish a fully compliant range of acoustic solutions that meet the required performance specifications at the new Phoenix Academy in Telford; built as part of the council’s Building Schools for the Future programme. Around 2,000m² of ROCKFON products: Rockfon Scholar and Samson wall panels; Rockfon Contour suspended baffles; and Rockfon Alaska suspended raft islands, were installed throughout the school to improve acoustic sound absorption – particularly in areas where the school design meant that traditional suspended ceilings were unable to be installed.

For almost a decade, ESCREO whiteboard paints have been helping companies transform their workplaces, making them more creative, organised and open to collaboration. Creativity and innovation are embedded in the DNA of the company and its team from the very beginning. Thanks to this, they manage to find a solution to a problem that negatively affects our productivity and well-being, namely poor air quality. This is how ESCREO Clean Air was born - the latest addition to ESCREO's carbon neutral portfolio of functional paints. ESCREO Clean Air is an interior air purifying paint, which reduces air pollution by more than 90.1%. One of the magic components is an enhanced mineral which attracts and neutralises harmful pollutants, incl. VOCs, odours, air chemicals and CO2. The non-toxic environmentally friendly water-based formula is a great collaboration between modern technology and a clever "problem-solving" approach, through which ESCREO can help commercial building owners use hitherto passive areas such as walls to further purify the air indoors, making the premises more attractive to current and future users.

A new crematorium facility for Huntingdon Town Council, Huntingdon Crematorium is a collection of buildings equipped with ceremonial spaces and the appropriate crematory functions. The specification of Vandersanden’s Perla and Morvan bricks has resulted in buildings that have made a striking contribution to the landscape of the greenfield site while also helping to change the accepted perception of crematorium buildings. “We were looking for a way of making the process of going to an end of life ceremony uplifting and hopeful,” explains Mark Doohan, managing director at Benchmark Architects. “We had the idea of creating a curved, white, brick building within which there are beautiful, light filled and airy spaces.” When envisioning the scheme, the team at Benchmark Architects realised that by inserting a black brick wall across the site they could create a ‘canvas’ that provided the separation between the front of house and working areas of the crematorium. Against this, on one side, they packed three curved white brick volumes to create the key spaces, adjusted in height according to the hierarchy of their importance: the entrance lobby, waiting room and chapel. Out of sight, behind the wall, are the cremators, plant rooms, offices and other functional elements. The design focuses on a central drum flooded with natural light. The main building contains the ceremonial hall for 125 people, waiting rooms and crematory with capacity for two cremators. A second building contains a multi-purpose function room - that can be used for wakes - and a café with associated catering facilities and administrative offices. Having created the design vision, the choice of appropriate bricks was crucial. Good white bricks are hard to come by, often they’re tinged with yellow or beige; finding black bricks that are not simply colour coated or are a dark blue is equally hard, says Doohan.“We were delighted when we were able to find the Vandersanden bricks. We genuinely love the texture and through colour quality of Vandersanden’s white Perla and black Morvan bricks. They set off our concept perfectly, with the white brick capturing the light in the way that we envisioned when first sketching out the idea.” A double soldier course heads the windows to form a band around the building and is repeated close to the top of the main drum. There is also a recessed course 500 mm off the ground that creates a scored line at the base, bringing additional balance to the building. This is achieved by setting one course back by some 25 mm. Another advantage of the Vandersanden bricks is that they can be used in the ground below DPC level, visually rooting the building to the landscape. It was essential that the volumes were homogenous in feel so a good mortar match was vital. Lime mortar was selected and was aesthetically important due to its colour, texture and because its flexibility reduced the number of movement joints required. The lime used, NHL 3.5, was naturally white; for the black brickwork it was pigmented. When seen from a distance, only the overall form of the building is perceived but, on getting closer, the brick details start to stand out. Then, when really close, the contribution that the texture, pattern, shape and almost handmade quality of the individual bricks makes to the quality of the building becomes clear. We’re always keen to specify products where we get really good technical support, notes Doohan. “Vandersanden were excellent at providing advice and technical backup whenever we had a question. Since becoming aware of Vandersanden products, they are our go-to source for brick. As architects, we’re image-based creatures so the website is incredibly helpful. It’s an excellent way of being able to see the bricks in loads of different and inspiring building types. Many brick suppliers don’t show that connection. Most importantly, our client for Huntingdon Crematorium is delighted with the brickwork.”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

Poole high School is located in the heart of the sunny Dorset seaside town. A large school, they pride themselves on their successful pastoral system, reflecting the value they place upon the individual.Having worked with Poole High several times over the past decade, we were delighted to be approached once again to provide two bespoke, freestanding and wall attached shelters, to further extend their dining hall facilities into available space around the building. The finished project takes the form of a 22m x 10m Winterbourne Freestanding Shelter with a mixture of sub-surface and surface mounted posts, and 8m x 3m Winterbourne Wall Attached Shelter. Guttering and downpipes were also included so rain doesn’t cascade over the end of the shelter during rainy spells. To complement the school aesthetic and previous installations, Poole High School opted to have their new shelter galvanised and epoxy powder coated in Squirrel Grey RAL 7000. This surface treatment means the structure will be guaranteed to last 25 years, serving the school for many years to come. The roof is made from UV stabilised 16mm polycarbonate, to give a light and airy feel.Mark Sheldon, Estate Manager at Poole High School said: “After 3 previous successful shelter installations from NBB Outdoors, they were first choice for us when, towards the end of the 21-22 academic year, we explored the possibility of expanding our dining hall space by erecting a large canopy structure by the north entrance/exit, as well as a queue shelter by the west entrance/exit. NBB have been on hand to help and guide us through every step from initial quote to installation, and obligingly installed both structures during the summer holiday, causing as little disruption to school operations as possible and ensuring our new dining space is ready to go in time for our students to return. The school is delighted with the high standard of workmanship, as we’ve come to expect, and are sure our students will enjoy the space for many, many years to come!”.

DS Properties Employ Complementary Paving Solution at Historic PumphouseDS Properties undertook the task of redeveloping The Pumphouse in Barry which previously formed part of Barry’s historic dock complex and provided one of the few hydraulic power buildings in Wales. The building had gone unused for several years but had always remained a local landmark and so the decision was made to regenerate the site for housing and commercial accommodation. Retaining the nostalgic style of the historical Pumphouse was hugely important to DS Properties and therefore the developer was seeking hard landscaping products that would complement the traditional surroundings. Tobermore provided the perfect solution in the form of vintage-themed block paving product, Tegula, and striking plank paving product, Manhattan.Alex Knight, Development Surveyor at DS Properties, explained the project objectives: “The Pumphouse is a Grade II listed building constructed in the 1880’s and the aim of the refurbishment and new build scheme was to create the first local purpose-built live/work facility at the centre of Barry’s commercial regeneration, offering 14 live/work apartments, office units, a gym and a restaurant and cafe.”Acanthus Holden Architects was appointed to design the redevelopment works and the new build elements. DS Properties advised the architect that the landscape design needed to incorporate paving products to complement the period-themed Pumphouse building. Alex commented:“As tarmac was incorporated on part of the site, we wanted to break up the space and create a more visually attractive external area. The landscape needed to harmonise with the historic buildings and be sympathetic to the traditional backdrop on site.”ALEX KNIGHT, DEVELOPMENT SURVEYOR AT DS PROPERTIESThe choice of paving supplier was a relatively easy choice for DS Properties as Alex explained: “Tobermore products came highly recommended by one of our trusted suppliers, Robert Price, and after examining product samples kindly provided by the Tobermore South Wales Sales team, the aesthetics and quality was a key factor in confirming our decision to use Tobermore products.”Tobermore’s Tegula and Manhattan block paving was specified as the best method to meet the design vision for the project. Tegula is manufactured with an aged, antique appearance and so it was the perfect choice for the Pumphouse in creating a rustic look and complementing the historic structure beautifully.Manhattan is a plank paving system and although contemporary in style and contrasting to the traditional ambience of Tegula, the addition of this product reflected the modern new buildings on site. Manhattan is manufactured with a granite aggregate surface layer that produces a similar look to natural granite. As part of the landscape design, the linear paving product was delicately intertwined with Tegula to create a stylish square border pattern running throughout. The integration of Tobermore’s Tegula and Manhattan created a fabulous infusion of traditional and modern styles.The project was completed in early 2016, breathing new life into the town of Barry. Although only one building, the Pumphouse in an integral part of the regeneration of the town and is hoped to act as a catalyst for the wider regeneration of the area.Alex commented on the result of the redevelopment scheme: “Thankfully there were no issues encountered during the design and construction process. We are absolutely delighted with the result and in reference to the hard landscaping works, we would most certainly recommend the products and service provided by Tobermore – it was excellent.” 

Challenge Modern paving flags required for city centre roof terrace at flexible workspace Urban HQ situated in Eagle Star House offers state-of-the-art facilities including meeting rooms, event space, a member’s lounge and bar.  One of its most notable spaces is the rooftop terrace. The roof garden provides co-workers with a valuable communal area to foster company culture or escape from their desk. The terrace offers a flexible space to relax, socialise or entertain while taking in the views of Belfast city and beyond. The central design aspiration was to bring a New York or London feel to Belfast city. It was essential that the roof terrace hard landscaping aligned with the design ethos. SolutionContemporary Mayfair Flags installed on pedestals were the perfect choice  Tobermore’s Mayfair Flags with their granite aggregate contemporary finish were the perfect choice for Eagle Star House. A contrasting finish was created on the terrace in the colours Silver and Graphite. A simple yet effective stacked laying pattern was deployed which adds to the clean look of the contemporary roof terrace. The commercial space has more of a boutique hotel feel than a city centre office. The Mayfair paving flags were installed onto adjustable pedestals, creating a level surface throughout the terrace. The use of this installation system enables the laying of paving flags without the need for grout, sand or adhesive. It also creates a void beneath the paved surface allowing an easy and convenient route for exterior cables or other services. View our Roof Terrace Support for installation on pedestals for roof terraces, balconies and roof gardens.