"cladding"

Architect: Moses Cameron WilliamsInstaller: Willmott DixonProduct: Gustafs Linear RibThe new Library at the Luton campus of the University of Bedfordshire which opened in June 2016 was designed by Moses Cameron Williams Architects (of Cambridge) and project managed and installed by Willmott Dixon.The University has been around for over 100 years and teaches in a wide range of subject areas as well as conducting award winning research across health, energy and technology, and social policy topics.The library is spread over 7 floors including silent study rooms, group work and meeting spaces, computer labs and presentation facilities and a café as well as miles of bookshelves. Gustafs and LSA Projects supplied over 8,000 linear metres of ribs to the project for both wall and ceiling application covering around 450m2.Over 3,000 individual 28mm deep ribs in natural Oak veneer have been used to clad the impressive open atrium and cafe area as well as throughout the library isles and study spaces. 12mm gaps between ribs give the entire installation depth, texture, and warmth as well as impressive acoustic control; perfect for a busy university library!

Luxury countryside holiday letsAward winning architectural practice Pocknell Studio were tasked with renovating deteriorating, redundant, two-storey structures in addition to creating new field barns to create spectacular accommodation for a fabulous countryside holiday retreat.This architect has a long-standing preference for using Rainline for their projects so it was no surprise when the galvanised steel guttering and downpipes were specified for the North and South Barns. The Silver Metallic colour option was a perfect selection for the hipped roof design with black and white palette.The field bands are finished in a contemporary take on the traditional black Essex barn and designed to fit into a typical country environment. The brick and timber clad buildings are finished with not only Lindab Rainline rainwater system but also Lindab Seamline standing seam roofing system. The valley roof and staggered fascade design was a particular challenge which required careful detailing and installation to ensure steep falls which allow rapid drainage.Bullocks Farm have tried to create “a quiet haven for people visiting the area and have made each property as comfortable, relaxing and practical as possible”. The architects are very happy that the project has been successful for the client and further development of the site will continue.  

‘Elements of drama and delight’ Petrarch accents bring a sense of elegance and refinement… As the centrepiece of the magnificent £20 million Dylan Coastal Resort, the design brief for Milk Wood House Spa dictated the need for laid-back luxury. ‘Heralded by the luxury resort sector as ‘world-class,’ Milk Wood House Spa sets a new benchmark.’“We wanted to create a building that felt as though it was hewn out of the landscape, embracing and engaging with its setting. The design inspiration was both the immediate and distant setting on the edge of the River Taf Estuary.Lead architect and Associate Director of LP ArchitectsInspirational design “The building is contemporary and sleek, and we wanted the interior to feel seamless with the architectural design – so we worked closely with the architects and client to select the building cladding, which we then wrapped into the interior to unify with the exterior and enhance the connection to the outdoors.”Interior designer, Louise James of Blackthorn Design StudioWhy Petrarch? Created primarily from crushed marble Petrarch was a fitting choice in terms of the ecological ethos of the development. It’s lightweight nature and appealing aesthetic were also key reasons for its utilisation. https://www.prp-co.uk/what-we-do/architecture/milk-wood-house-499

The Palm Tower, a new landmark from master developer Nakheel, under construction at the heart of Dubai's iconic Palm Jumeirah, promises that each of its luxury hotel rooms and apartments will feature one of the best views in the city.To achieve this, the 52-storey, 240-metre-tall hotel and residential building will be clad entirely in glass.Of course, Dubai’s climate means that preventing excessive heat build-up inside heavily glazed buildings will always be a priority. For this project, the architect chose to install 50,000 square metres of Pilkington Suncool™ One 30/21 solar control glass so that residents and guests enjoy both stunning vistas in cool, comfortable surroundings.Silver liningThe glass features a state-of-the-art multi-layer coating that incorporates a microscopically thin layer of silver to help reduce heat transmission to just 21 per cent, while maintaining a neutral colour balance in the light passing through, maximising the views.The building is clad in an area of glass equivalent to 192 tennis courts, but because of the advanced magnetron sputtering technique used to apply the coating, just eight kilogrammes of silver was needed to cover the whole tower. That’s a piece of silver approximately the size of a laptop.Pilkington Suncool™ One 30/21 was originally developed by Pilkington United Kingdom Limited, part of the NSG Group, for Intraco UAE, which has used the glass on a number of projects in the past.Leo Pyrah, product manager at Pilkington UK said: “The view you will get from these hotel rooms and apartments is one of the major draws of this building, but clearly a fully glazed skyscraper in such a hot climate creates challenges from an energy management perspective.“The bespoke coating we have developed alongside Intraco lets the developer and its customers enjoy the best of both worlds – a stunning view with much reduced solar heating.”CentrepieceAs the centrepiece of the world-famous Palm Jumeirah, The Palm Tower is set to become a new landmark for Dubai. When completed, the mixed-use complex will feature 432 apartments and 290 hotel rooms, as well as a rooftop dining and recreation destination featuring a 360-degree roof top infinity pool, a high-end restaurant and a public viewing deck offering sweeping views of The Palm, the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai skyline.As well as creating a comfortable climate for users, the solar-control glazing will also significantly reduce the need for air conditioning, reducing costs and emissions.Leo Pyrah continued: “Dubai is a city that is pushing architectural and technological boundaries and we’re excited to have played a role in shaping the look of its iconic and ever-evolving skyline.”Project: Palm Tower, DubaiClient: NakheelGlazing distributor: Intraco UAE

Optima FC+ in 3.0mm Aluminium PPC Interpon D2525 Y2217f has been used in the completion of Lancaster Universtiy's School of Mathematics.Optima FC+ was specified in order to create the feature `Zig-Zag` pattern. The expert team at Sotech manufactured multiple panel depths, engaging with carrier rails set to irregular angles to create the architect’s vision.The four story building included a rooftop terraced area for students to relax and study, has a unique and iconic look, making it an immediate landmark for people travelling into Preston City Centre. Lancaster University School of Mathematics (LUSoM) is a specialist school that will deliver world-class mathematics education for 16 to 18 year-olds.Optima FC+ is an evolution of Sotech’s original secret fix hook on rainsreen. Featuring an innovative slide and lock adjustment mechanism, the rainscreen system now features carrier rail hooks, which can be locked in position on site by installers, rather than in the factory, leading to significantly reduced lead times for all parties. Its versatility is such that a multitude of materials and thicknesses (from 2.0mm to 4mm) used on one universal carrier.Optima FC+ has been fire tested to BS8414-2:2015, and classified to BR135 for high rise buildings. A full range of Euroclass A1 and A2 – s1,d0 panel materials from 2mm – 4mm are available. Mechanical fixing methods and no use of adhesives, providing true A1 and A2 cladding systems.TESTIMONIALSJamie Brown, Estimator at Sotech, noted: “This was an extremely difficult layout to accommodate onsite. Early-stage discussions ensured that all queries were actioned before the design commenced to ensure a streamline process of transferring information. The team at Saxon Contracting have done a fantastic job in bringing the concept to life!”Naveen Sandhu, UK and Ireland Specification Manager: “A distinct tapered cladding design needed to be complemented with a finish equally befitting it. The Pozzoni team wanted to replicate the look and feel of anodised aluminium but without the associated practical pains. They identified our D2525 Anodic Collection as the perfect solution, proposing a sleek metallic bronze finish, offering strong depth and naturality to the aluminium surface. D2525 Anodic boasts a strong track record in decorating a wide array of higher education establishments which instilled future confidence with the end client.”Lee Banks, Design Manager at Saxon Contracting: “The secret fix panels on this project needed to be completely bespoke to the Optima FC+ standard details, working with the Sotech team they highlighted any production issues early in the design which avoided any un-necessary re-design work or unsightly site fixes. The complexity in the setting out and the majority of time taken building this project is hidden behind the panels with the support bracketry so the site team deserve a special mention for their expertise.”

Artform Urban supplied multi-use planter benches to one of the largest retail destinations in the UK, the Metrocentre, attracting millions of visitors each year. As part of ongoing efforts to revitalise the centre and create an inviting atmosphere, Artform Urban Furniture proposed the installation of their Triangle Planter System in key public spaces.The Triangle Planter System combines modern aesthetics with functionality.Each planter is constructed from durable powder-coated steel with integrated seating which is clad in Okoume sheets, an attractive and hard-wearing plywood perfect for busy environments.The triangular shape allows for flexible placement to create an array of configurations, optimising the use of available space. They act as natural barriers, guiding foot traffic and improving the overall flow within the Metrocentre. The planters were strategically placed in high-footfall areas, including entrances, walkways, and plazas. Their design has helped to define and delineate pedestrian walkways, seating areas, and open spaces as well as enhancing the overall ambiance of the Metrocentre. The Triangle bench is part of the INSIDE + OUTSIDE range which aims to provide versatile and aesthetically appealing furniture solutions for both interior and exterior spaces. This range combines functionality, durability, and style to enhance various environments such as public spaces, commercial areas, and residential settings. 

A careful combination of A2 fire rated soffit panels, rainscreen cladding and mesh screens from Proteus Facades has helped band together the impressive new £42m Sciences Centre at Durham University. Based within the grounds of the Upper Mountjoy Campus, the new Mathematical Sciences and Computer Science building has been developed to create synergy between the two departments, which have been earmarked for significant growth within the Durham University Strategy – 2017-2027. The building features state-of-the-art teaching facilities and office space, including a specialist IT Lab with a designated server room, a 120-seat tiered lecture theatre and tutorial rooms. While a café and breakout spaces, as well as four enclosed courtyards make up the communal areas. Creating a bright space for students, staff and visitors to meet and relax, Proteus Facades manufactured striking 2.0mm Aluminium Proteus IP interlocking planks with a PPC Traffic White Matte (RAL 9016) finish for use on the façades of the four internal courtyards. GSS Architecture chose the Proteus IP aluminium PPC in Traffic White because it accentuates and reflects natural light creating an enhanced ambience in the teaching spaces that face onto the courtyards, whilst complementing the glass curtain walling system.

TG Escapes designed and built an early years eco-building for their client Colston’s Lower School in Bristol. The building was tailored to the school’s needs, providing a separate learning space to house all the early years' students in one building. When designing any environment for young children, safety is a priority. That is why TG Escapes chose non-slip decking to surround the new school building. Gripsure met TG Escapes' rigorous non-slip requirements on this project with brown-treated Gripsure Classic, featuring three anti-slip strips. This is the first project regular Gripsure customer TG Escapes has completed in a brown-treated decking. They chose this finish to complement the Western Red Cedar cladding used on the eco-building. It is also the first project for which TG Escapes has used three-strip non-slip decking to further reduce the risk of slips and falls. A representative for TG Escapes explained “In early years buildings some of the children are of nursery age. Their feet may be so small that they would fit in between the space of two anti-slip infills, and be offered no coverage at all. Having three anti-slips eliminated this risk.” With a PTV value of 100, Classic allows access all year round offering peace of mind.

An intelligent Advanced Go panel has been installed in The Steading, the home of sculptor and furniture maker, Tim Stead MBE.The Steading is an A-Listed building, located in Blainslie near Lauder in the Scottish Borders, and was both the creative centre and home to the Stead family across several decades. It was purchased by the Tim Stead Trust in 2021 and a programme of restoration work has included the addition of an Advanced Go new-generation, single-loop fire alarm control panel to protect this historic home.The Steading is considered Tim’s masterpiece with an interior that was transformed over many years. The interior is completely clad in sculpted wood: floors, walls, ceilings, stairs, cupboards, beds, a grandfather clock, sink, conservatory, hanging sculptures, desks and so on – all made by Stead himself. This exceptional building now aims to become a hub for practical expertise in everything to do with wood and the environment, hosting a variety of day and residential courses in the unique environment of The Steading.Fire and security service providers, Safe Services, installed the Advanced Go fire alarm panel in The Steading and were involved from the design stage though to installation and commissioning. The Advanced Go panel is integrated with EMS Firecell radio equipment for a complete cable-free fire system – which was an essential requirement to preserve and protect the unique interior of the building.

Our client, One 17 Design, acted as Architects, Interior Designers and Project Managers for this superb project with involvement from inception through to completion. Their brief was to create a home office / garden room in the grounds of an existing detached home, which was done by extending the detached garage.The material palette for the garden room predominately featured oak and steel. Blackened oak cabinetry and steel fenestration provide a striking contrast against the natural oak frame and cladding. Clever detailing in the relationship between the oak frame and steel doors adds a contemporary twist. The bricks for the outside of the building were selected to match the brickwork of the existing bungalow. Bespoke Clement steel windows and doors from the W20 range were chosen for the project, including an interior door, fitted with reeded glass that leads to the bathroom. All handles were powder coated black to match the steel frames.The project won “Best amazing space” at the 2022 Northern Design Awards.Freddie Garside, Partner and Director at One 17 Design, said:“We and our client were delighted with the finished doors and screens. The narrow framed black steel doors complement the natural oak frame perfectly. Clement were very professional, efficient and responsive throughout the whole project.”Photography: Joe Cotterill

The owner of this house wanted to build a purpose-built home to meet the needs of his growing up family.  He wanted to live in the village he grew up in but at the same time it was important that the design embraced new concepts and ideas. The end result is a stunning contemporary luxury home that incorporates large glazing areas throughout. There has been a careful use of traditional stone, wood and also unique metal cladding detail with the external design. Internally the feeling throughout is minimalistic clean lines, with the furniture being a perfect complement to the end result. With the exception of the switchable privacy glass for the window adjacent to the front door, the inclusion of completely concealed fully automated blinds to all other windows are the ’Grand Finale’ to this beautiful home.  When not required the blinds are completely concealed but at the press of a button or using their mobile devices, blinds appear as required – providing shading, sun protection, privacy or blackout blinds as required.A feature of interest is the large gable window in the master bedroom.  Here Honeycell Duette® blinds have also been concealed within the sloping ceiling and again appear from their hiding places when required showing that irregular shaped areas can benefit from the Blindspace headboxes which can be made to conceal almost any blind available on the market.

THE LOCATIONThis brand-new student accommodation development is situated in the River Street neighbourhood of Manchester. The striking appearance of the development is down to the architectural design and materials used including the Cor-Ten steel alloy cladding which pairs perfectly with the dark blue painted panels.THE PROJECTThe development comprises 792 student bed spaces including a mix of studios and apartments and offers affordable, stylish, and accessible accommodation in the heart of Manchester whilst being a safe environment for students to learn, grow and live.THE PRODUCTSafety Letterbox discussed the design, layout and fire specifications of the project. After a few options were presented the client chose our FR2 mailbox. The FR2 mailbox is horizontal in front/ out front 2-hour fire-rated (integrity only) mailbox.Our 2-hour fire-rated mailbox range is commonly used within an evacuation route as they are capable of holding backfire or containing a fire for at least 2 hours, satisfying building and fire regulations.The mailboxes we’re powder coated in special colour – MATT Pearl Gold (RAL 1036) giving the mailboxes a stunning high-end aesthetic finish whilst being practical and completely secure. Multiple keys were also supplied, and doors were engraved for easy identification

The ChallengePark View is a residential development of 175 units, including one and two-bedroomed apartments and three, four and five-bedroomed homes. The site sits alongside Saltwell Park, one of Britain’s finest Victorian parks. A conservation area, the design of the site sought to blend tradition with a modern urban feel.The local council required a premium finish for which the choice of brick would play an important part in achieving.The SolutionAfter reviewing several options, Forterra’s Southdown Multi from its Butterley brand range was chosen. It is a high-quality facing brick with a tumbled texture.For some plots on the site, the bricks were laid in an English Garden Wall bond, closely reflecting the brickwork of some of Saltwell Park’s buildings.Alongside modern features, such as rainscreen cladding projections and timber finishes, the development also includes a number of bespoke elements appropriate to the conservation area: reduced window reveals, timber doors and windows coloured in a modern dark grey, natural slate roof tiles, exaggerated roof pitches to accentuate prominent plots and full height feature windows.The BenefitsThe use of Southdown Multi brick has proven to be an effective choice in the successful blending of traditional and modern, ensuring the new development quickly settled within its surrounding environment.

The owner of this house wanted to build a purpose-built home to meet the needs of his growing up family. He wanted to live in the village he grew up in but at the same time it was important that the design embraced new concepts and ideas. The end result is a stunning contemporary luxury home that incorporates large glazing areas throughout. There has been a careful use of traditional stone, wood and also unique metal cladding detail with the external design. Internally the feeling throughout is minimalistic clean lines, with the furniture being a perfect complement to the end result.  With the exception of the switchable privacy glass for the window adjacent to the front door, the inclusion of completely concealed fully automated blinds to all other windows are the ’Grand Finale’ to this beautiful home. When not required the blinds are completely concealed but at the press of a button or using their mobile devices, blinds appear as required – providing shading, sun protection, privacy or blackout blinds as required.  A feature of interest is the large gable window in the master bedroom. Here Honeycell Duette® blinds have also been concealed within the sloping ceiling and again appear from their hiding places when required showing that irregular shaped areas can benefit from the Blindspace headboxes which can be made to conceal almost any blind available on the market.

Located near Highgate in North London, the Chester Balmore project consists of three elegant brick-clad blocks, housing a contemporary collection of 53 super-insulated one, two and three-bedroom flats, all set around a landscaped courtyard. The development is designed to achieve Code for Sustainable Homes Level 4 and the high levels of insulation employ good use of solar and internal heat gains, plus excellent air tightness and minimal thermal bridges. It is claimed that the air tightness on the Chester Balmore development is around twenty times better than that required by Building Regulations.Preventing thermal bridging along the parapets was a critical consideration for such a high performance development, because as with balconies, parapets can allow conductive materials to transfer energy through the thermal barrier. Conventionally, in the majority of cases, the method of insulating parapets and parapet walls is to wrap the perimeter of the wall with an insulation barrier. However, the Schöck Isokorb® T type A offers a cost-effective and more thermally efficient alternative. Its 60mm insulation thickness results in low psi-values and therefore significantly reduces heat loss – and there is no wrapping required. It offers a more sophisticated construction opportunity for greater freedom of design and offers flexible distance between elements according to load requirements.

Weston Homes have developed 182 luxury apartments across four blocks, overlooking the River Lea navigation canal. Situated on a former industrial estate, the apartments are designed with functionality, style and comfort in mind. The beautifully landscaped grounds include gardens, a central courtyard, a wildflower meadow and river walkways. The development also includes underground parking and balcony space for residents to enjoy the river views. The impressive curved roof was installed across three buildings. This included vertical installation of a Kalzip standing seam secret fix system.SFS supplied fixings to the project, including stainless steel self-drilling SX fasteners with an irius® (L12) head. The irius® head is an ideal solution for when aesthetics are paramount, like on a luxury project such as this. A low profile head form, the irius® has been designed specifically for applications where the fastener has to fulfill all its normal structural requirements whilst, at the same time, blend in unobtrusively with the roof or cladding. It can be powder-coated for colour matching purposes and the innovative underhead drive system enables ease of installation, whilst also offering a high level of tamper-resistance.This project was nationally recognized, with the contractor winning the 'Roof Sheeting' category in the NFRC UK Roofing Awards 2016.

A £40 million investment, 13 roof areas, eight different roof levels, and a steady stream of visiting students to keep happy throughout – the University of Reading (UoR) Library’s complete refurbishment was a large and challenging project spanning three years.Originally opened in 1964 and later extended in 1985, the library’s internal and external revamp was designed to increase space, improve facilities for individual study, provide better access and security across the building, and improve energy efficiency.In addition to a new-build Café extension, a new entrance canopy, a new ground-to-roof level lift and stair core extension – each featuring a new flat roof area – there were also 10 existing flat roof areas refurbished, coupled with the replacement of windows and re-cladding of the building’s exterior.Following a competitive tender based on an outline specification, Owlsworth Roofing, Sika Sarnafil single ply flat roofing specialists, impressed with the level of detail included in their quote and were awarded the contract by main contractor ISG.Roofing:Sika® Sarnafil G410-12 ELF.Sika® Sarnafi G410-12 EL.Sarnavap®-5000E SA.Sarnavap® HD SA.Primer 600.Sikatherm® PIR Insulation and Sarnacol®-2162.

Architects: Woods BagotLocation: Wiltshire, UKPhotography: Will PryceMaterial: NATURSOFFIT-W CladdingFinish: RustikThe project by the Woods Bagot architecture studio for the library at St. Mary’s Calne School re-centres the space as the hub of academic and social activity. Completed in 2020 and located in the British county of Wiltshire, the project maintains the school’s traditional aesthetic, all while incorporating a central garden with apple trees.The library’s faceted ceiling is a central part of the design, which evokes spreading tree branches. All of the wood panels are held up by an iron truss structure connected to large pillars, simulating the vertical nature of trunks. The properties of Parklex Prodema’s false ceiling allow continuity for the wood from the interior to the exterior, making it visible through the clerestory windows.The triangular panels that make up the complex faceted geometry are resistant, long-lasting, sustainable, and maintenance-free. They were custom manufactured for this project, including perforations for acoustic purposes, allowing sound to pass through the panel to be absorbed by the insulation behind it.The natural Okume wood panel selected by the architects provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere, creating a point of inspiration for learning. Combined with the garden landscape around it, the continuous ceiling magnifies the building’s appeal and integrates it into his surroundings.

'The Portal' is a new £16 million public services hub in Ellesmere Port, delivered by Vinci Construction UK for Cheshire West and Chester Council. The new facility will be home to more than 500 council and public sector staff, a Job Centre Plus and a Citizen’s Advice Bureau.The building has been constructed with many environmentally friendly elements including solar panels, air source heat pump and electric vehicle charging points. The Portal’s envelope is wrapped at the top and bottom with an attractive, copper coloured metal cladding and a newly formed public realm area will surround the exterior, with bench seating and green landscaped sections.Internally, 'The Portal' consists of large open plan working areas with smaller subsection meeting rooms, break out and kitchen spaces which are present on each level and a main central staircase for circulation.Metal Technology Ltd supplied its 10-35Hi+ commercial entrance doors and System 17 capped curtain walling for the large, glazed sections of the build to approved fabricator and installer RED Systems Limited.Due to open its doors in Spring, it’s fantastic to have been involved in this state-of-the-art, commercial project, which is a catalyst for the wider Ellesmere Port Town Centre regeneration master plan.

A selection of our high-performance aluminium fenestration solutions has been used for this new café and drive-thru at a popular shopping destination in Wales.The new Starbucks at Parc Pemberton Retail Park has been designed by G1 Architects and built by Trojan Construction, with the aluminium fenestration package skilfully delivered by specialist contractor Sherwood Aluminium Systems.The project features both our cost-effective SCW aluminium curtain walling and our robust SFG shop front glazing system, which are both ideally suited for use in the retail sector as they combine slim sightlines with a robust and durable construction. Our curtain wall system has been used to create a bright and airy interior in the café, and the SFG system has been integrated with our SD aluminium doors to provide safe access at the entrance and exit. Our SD aluminium commercial doors have also been used on the drive-thru building, with the powder-coated aluminium frames perfectly complementing the use of timber cladding and grey façade design.The new Starbucks outlet has benefited from both Trojan Construction and Sherwood Aluminium Systems’ extensive experience undertaking similar schemes for the retailer across the UK, with Sherwood Aluminium Systems named as a preferred supplier for Starbucks.

It is anticipated that when completed in the next ten years or so, the regeneration of Wembley Park, in North West London, will provide up to 7000 new homes. Schöck is supplying its Isokorb structural thermal break systems across a number of different sites on this vast scheme, but one of the largest is South West Lands. This private rented sector residential-led mixed-use neighbourhood will account for around 12% of the new homes on the entire Wembley Park development, up to 900 in total.South West Lands is spread across four separate blocks, which all share a communal basement car park.The reinforced concrete frame buildings, up to 18 storeys high, are finished using traditional brickwork and standing seam metal cladding. To create valuable amenity space at higher levels, as well as offering far-reaching views across London, there are communal roof terraces and a considerable number of private balconies throughout the development.Schöck Isokorb® T type SK products were used on two of the phases at South West Lands for thermally connecting the cantilevered steel balconies to the reinforced concrete slab. The Isokorb® T type SK units were positioned accurately using re-useable balcony width steel jigs.

THE BRIEFOutdoor storage and seatingParade Green is a brand new student accommodation development in Oxford and offers over 800 rooms. The design was inspired by Oxford’s historic college quads, with plenty of open space to give it a village feel.Langley Design were approached by the RG Group as there was a requirement for cycle parking facilities for the large number of occupants. As the UK leading manufacturer of timber cycle shelters, we were chosen to manufacture and install our Sheldon units in various locations across the site.WHAT WE DIDOptimising the spaceIn order to optimise the use of space, our two tier cycle racks were seen to be the most suitable option to accommodate the large number of bikes. The project also required canopies to be installed in the courtyard to provide covered seating areas for the students to enjoy the outdoor space in any weather.THE RESULTAdditional wind protectionAs a bespoke manufacturer, we were able to produce a canopy with timber cladding to the sides of the units which offered additional protection from the wind whilst still allowing airflow and light through the unit.The end result looks fantastic and the RG Group were delighted with the flexibility of the Langley Design installation service and our ability to meet the tight deadlines.

THE BRIEFEnhancing the outdoor spaceHinton Grange is a brand-new multi-million-pound care home in Cambridge. Langley Design worked with McGoff Construction on this brand-new facility, which provides full time residential and specialist dementia care for up to 68 senior citizens.We manufactured and installed a range of timber street furniture products to enhance the useability of the care homes outdoor spaces.WHAT WE DIDBespoke timber benchesOur hexagonal canopy with a tensile fabric roof is not only a distinctive feature in the courtyard but also offers shading for the residents during the summer months. As a bespoke manufacturer, we were able to provide bespoke timber benches which fit nicely inside to provide a social or dining area. Our timber pergola acts as a striking feature to the newly landscaped areas and the additional sides of cladding can offer protection from the elements. THE RESULTEnvironmentally friendlyWe also installed a combination bin and cycle storage unit with a sedum roof. A green roof has many benefits for the surrounding environment. These roofs are easy to maintain, the plants absorb carbon dioxide as well as other airborne particles and release oxygen into the air. They are also a great place for insects to live.

In a stunning architectural statement, CUPA PIZARRAS R17 slate has been specified to meet the design challenges of a former Georgian windmill renovation at Fort Green, near Aldeburgh in Suffolk. The first project of its kind in the UK, the natural slate was individually cut and fixed through expert craftsmanship to accommodate the building’s exterior curve while also providing crucial protection from the harsh coastal environment. Originally, the windmill walls were going to be clad in cedar shingles however, contractor ELC Roofing recommended using the rectangular CUPA R17 slate from CUPA PIZARRAS as a more weather-resistant alternative. ELC Roofing Owner, Edward Carlo, explains: “The R17 is a natural, non-carbonated blue-black slate with non-rusting metallic particles and thin laminations. From our perspective, it’s a tried and tested product that we specify and install on a lot of our projects – especially in coastal situations like this.” The slates, which protect against the salt water and wind, have been fitted on both the windmill’s curved wall, its pitched roof and elsewhere adding design details to the property’s walls. He goes on to say: “Aesthetically, the ocean environment has inspired the material choice with the slate mirroring the scales of a fish. This gives the windmill a dramatic architectural style; one that also sympathetically ties into the slate roof of the neighbouring cottage, which we replaced with CUPA R17 the previous year. “As far as I am aware, nothing like this windmill has been done in the UK. It was a case of starting from scratch to devise the optimum installation method, which involved a lot of detailed calculations.” For the tower, which has a 15m circumference at the base tapering to 11m at the top, the team initially removed the thick render on the windmill wall, taking it back to the original brickwork. Next, to meet the challenge of the curve and tapering of the wall, 50mm counter battens were fitted to the tower’s brickwork. Then, multiple strips of ply were cut and glued together to create the curve. These panels were screwed to the counter battens to provide an anchor for the fixing system. The ply was also primed to protect the surface from water ingress and a breathable membrane applied to protect the brickwork. In terms of fixing the slates to the panels, Edward said: “For a more corrosion and wind-resistant solution, I decided on the French technique of a stainless steel hook fixing system to install the slate, as opposed to nails.” Ensuring the layout worked exactly with the curves, the slate was lasered from top to bottom to perk it out, which took five days to do. Horizontal tiling battens were also marked to ensure the slates were fixed at the right height. Every single slate was cut and fixed individually to accommodate the curve and ensure they aligned with the building’s inset windows as well as other architectural details - a very precise process that required expert levels of craftsmanship. Preventing the slates from getting smaller at height, the team designed-in a series of lead bands that go all around the building at each storey level. These sit underneath the windows to create a consistent appearance visually. The windmill’s domed copper roof existed already and the adjoining tower, which is horizontally clad in a white weatherboard, features a slated pitched roof. ELC Roofing has again used CUPA PIZARRAS spanish slates. In this instance, the roof curves to the back end with four leaded hips to one end and two to the other with a connecting lead ridge. This time the slates were fitted to 20 x 50mm battens with a layer of permeable membrane. This part of the roof also features a striking onion-shaped finial. Expertly crafted by ELC Roofing, the finial is produced out of a patchwork of small pieces of soft copper, topped off with a fish that acts as a weather vane and includes stunning marble eyes. To the other side of the clad tower, CUPA PIZARRAS slate has been used to create a vertical square panel detail to the front of the building and fixed using the hook system again. Commenting on this challenging project, Edward said: “Work on site started before the first Covid-19 lockdown so as well as the challenging weather conditions that a coastal location like this presents, the team also had to complete the work with government guidance and restrictions in place. Regardless, the client is overwhelmed with the end result and so are we.” To find out more about the CUPA PIZARRAS range of natural slate visit: https://www.cupapizarras.com/uk/natural-slate-roofing/

Derbyshire Longhouse | SIP Self Build Passive House | As Featured on Grand DesignsDerbyshire, traditional, windy with undulating hilly countryside scattered with farms and buildings that have a familiar similarity about them. A shape that is long and follows the lines of the hills, a Longhouse a venerable type of building which dates back thousands of years. They were designed to protect the human inhabitants but also the livestock from the elements all living under one roof.Being city dwellers whilst their family grew up Mike and Sarah bought an 18 ½ acre small holding in the Derbyshire dales to live a very different life. Sarah has become a fulltime shepherdess Mike a busy director, a massive change of lifestyle. The plan is to move both sets of parents into a new house.Planning history for the site showed 26 previous residential planning applications for the farm – all of which had been refused.Jillian the architect told them that the only real route for them to get planning permission was to through a special section of the planning regulations called ‘paragraph 79’ – it had to be a house of exceptional architectural quality that could only be built in the landscape surrounding it so it becomes part of the landscape. After 2 years of application approval was granted.21st century interpretation of a Derbyshire long house – a series of interconnected spaces arranged in a line. A way the family could come together so it was multigenerational living.2 existing barns were knocked down. Foundations laid and 45tonnes of steel formed the frame of the building. The entire structure was then clad in SIPs. Walls clad in corrugated steel and standing seem roof all encased with triple glazed aluminium windows and doors.500m2 of living space. Spacious open planned living quarters, kitchen sitting room and a majestic double height dining room all with breath taking views of the dales. Downstairs contained a living accommodation for Mikes parents, upstairs housed bedrooms for Mike and Sarah and the girls, at the back of the house independent living accommodation for Sarah’s mum. 3 generations of family. However in this modern longhouse the animals will be living outside!The issues faced by the site were numerous, building to near Passive House standards, a roof that mirrored many roof planes and the need to transport all of the building down a track no wider than 3.5m wide and a steel frame that looked like something from Battlestar Gallactica!At every stage through numerous design team meetings and many telephone calls emails and every other form of correspondence this project wound its way like the undulating hills it was to be built in to a conclusion.SBUK had 8 weeks to deliver and install the SIP cladding to the building which was within the 8 – 10 week build program allowed. Our costs were delivered within the parameters of the final estimate for the project despite the time lapse in between.The overall project suffered from delay due to late delivery of the standing seam roof. Delays due to the pandemic and the struggle for materials added a couple of months to the overall program and the budget increased by 7%. Inflation during this period has been running in excess of 10%!!In all reality our package stayed the same despite timber costs rising by over 50% and SIP panels rising by 32% in the same period. We have been able to achieve this for the client by better optimisation of the SIP panel cutting which reduced what should have been enormous wastage due to the triangular shape of the panels.Optimisation ultimately was nearer to normal due to hard work and diligent panel landing by our design team.From the very beginning of the project the clients have looked to build an energy efficient fabric first building that will last the test of time.The ultimate use of the house was to house 3 generations of family. The consistent search for improvements in the materials and airtightness of the building whilst striving to achieve a passive house has led to a building that has incredibly low cost for heating.Recently whilst the snow was laying on the ground the inside temperature was 22c despite no heating being used.SIP panels are inherently airtight, add to that a VCL that has wrapped the building throw in the mechanical heat recovery and the building outperforms virtually anything that is currently being built.It was very important to the client to outperform standard SIP panel thicknesses so they opted for our largest panel thickness at the time. This will keep paying back for years to come whilst keeping all 3 generations warm.

North City Operation Depot is a dedicated staff-only depot facility will comprise of an office and welfare building with briefing rooms, training rooms, office accommodation, a serviced canteen, locker rooms, shower facilities, laundry facilities and drying room. The depot is to provide high quality facilities to enable staff to operate more safely, efficiently, and essentially so the City Council meets its climate action targets, based in Ballymun, Dublin.The client requested for leisure lockers with rolled carcases which helps with keeping the lockers dust free, with the measurements to be 1450mm high, 450mm wide and 500mm deep with the colour mixed between Fundermax and Poleyrey. The colours are mixed with wood effect and beige laminate. Within the lockers they decided to have shelves and internal dividers, additionally, in changing rooms they requested shelves, mirrors and drying racks which are 600mm deep, 2450mm long and 2000mm high powder coated in ‘Ice’.Within the leisure lockers they decided to go with was KitLock KL1200 which can keep the staff belonging secure within the lockers. The seat stands which were cladded with beige laminate, additionally having seat slats made with Fundermax wood effect.It was great working with Purcell Construction LTD on the project and wish North City Operation Depot much success in the future.If you have a similar project or need some information on the products, contact us today at 01284 530 427.

Falkener House is a 17 storey, residential apartment block located near Coventry city centre. It was originally constructed in 1968 to provide council accommodation.New regulations stipulate that buildings of over 18 metres in height must be fire resistant and classify to A2-s1, d0. KEIM Paints are the only paint manufacturer, to date, that meet this classification.Leicester based Elhance Limited, who specialise in cladding and roofing installation and repair, contacted KEIM to provide a fire resistant paint coating. Bryan Roe, Senior Sales Executive of KEIM Mineral Paints, visited site and produced a comprehensive specification. His findings included moss and green growth over the previously painted concrete, particularly on the south elevation and corners. A power spray was recommended to thoroughly clean the surfaces as part of the pre-paint preparation.Upon cleaning, it was found that the previous paintwork was in good condition. KEIM Soldalit-ME was specified due to its A2-s1, d0 fire classification. Soldalit-ME is a durable exterior paint that has the added benefit of breaking down organic material and contaminants, which will keep the surfaces cleaners for longer.The facades will not require decoration for another 10-15 years, if not more.A further two tower blocks, also situated in Coventry, have been commissioned to be painted using KEIM Soldalit-ME again due to its fire resistant and durable benefits

Project:Broxbourne SchoolClient:Chase New HomesContractor:Mid GroupArchitect:Bond BryanValue:£28mLocation: Broxbourne, HertfordshireGIFA: 9,633 m²Completion: 2020NEEDNew school projects require high building performance and quick delivery. Broxbourne School, replacing a sold secondary school site, also includes a community sports and music centre. Offsite methods deliver airtight, thermally efficient buildings quickly, as demonstrated by Broxbourne School, thanks to the close partnership of the architect, developer, and contractors.SOLUTIONMid Group, Innovaré, and Bond Bryan, having collaborated on multiple projects, efficiently deployed offsite methods, including the Innovaré SIP System. Structural SIP walls were used for teaching wings and as an airtight wrap around the steel frame of larger spaces, with brick slip facades by Aquarian Cladding Systems. The design focused on optimal classroom conditions and suitable materials for each structure part.OUTCOME Precise project planning meant that the Innovaré installation teams were onsite for just 15 weeks The buildings feature exceptional thermal efficiency (U value of 0.2w/m²K) and airtightness (5m³/m²/h), surpassing DfE targets, reducing energy demand, and lowering operational carbon. Extensive use of structural timber reduced embodied and sequestered carbon. The project’s success resulted from close partnership, leveraging prior knowledge and resolving issues early

THE PROJECTLocated on the south bank of the River Thames, this iconic building is being renovated and built into a thriving neighbourhood full of culture, art and history. Within the area, you can live, eat, shop and explore a range of places and living options.There is a range of apartments within the iconic landmark as well as the building surrounding the power station. Not only do the apartments offer a prime location in London, but they also come with a wide range of amenities included, including unforgettable London views, rooftop gardens, affordable homes, sustainable living plus much more.THE PRODUCTBattersea was built in stages and so were the mailboxes supplied.Phase 1 included full stainless steel RENZ Mailboxes that look absolutely stunning. They are recessed into the wall and include a soft close function for design purposes. These mailboxes look like they could be a brown colour, but that’s the reflection off the floor!The stainless steel has been engraved for easy identification. The boxes are also double-height for more storage capacity. Phases 2 & 3 are completely bespoke solutions to ensure the industrial cultural look of the building is kept throughout the additional finishes. These mailboxes were designed specifically for Battersea Power Station, they are suspended above the ground and in between concrete and steel pillars. These incredible Tileboxes are fitted with bespoke cladding, engraved numbering for easy identification and powder coated in anodic brown with a dark bronze lock.

Originally built in 1928, the Fullerton building was initially usedas an office, housing entities such as the Ministry of Trade andthe Chamber of Commerce.Following a brief spell as a makeshift hospital during thesecond World War, Britain’s surrender of Singapore to Japanled to the building becoming the headquarters for Japan’smilitary operation in the country.In 1997, the Building was sold for £300m and work beganon renovating it for use as a hotel. Architects 61 set outto restore the building’s existing facade. The neo-classicalcolumns and high-ceiling verandas were retained and the theShanghai plaster panel cladding was restored.However, the interior had to be completely transformedto accommodate the hotel’s 400 rooms. New additionsincluded the indoor garden and the new restaurant, where thebuilding’s historical lighthouse was kept and incorporated intothe decor.Allgood began work on the Fullerton in 1999, with a viewto supplying a high quality, bespoke package that wouldcomplement the building’s prestigious reputation.Allgood originally specified a combination of stainless steelHaft Elipse levers and matching pulls (top & bottom rightimages) in the public areas, along with bespoke FSB pullhandles for the ballroom doors (bottom left image). In the backof house area, Modric lever handles were fitted throughout,ensuring the hotel had a product that would last for at least 25years.More recently, Allgood were asked to provide new windowfittings in a polished stainless steel finish, to match the whitepainted windows in the bedroom

The official opening of Stourton Park and Ride on 16 September 2021, marks the 150th anniversary of public transport in West Yorkshire. In 1871 a horse tram commenced between the city centre and Headingley. The horse soon gave way to electric trams, trolleybuses and petrol buses, the latter quickly being superseded by those with diesel engines.The £38.5 million public transport project situated in the Stourton area of Leeds, at junction 7 of the M621, was delivered as part of a wider scheme to help Leeds City Council’s aim of transforming the Leeds City Region into a net zero carbon economy by 2038.BAM Nuttall, appointed to develop the site, started detailed designs in January 2019. They approached Twinfix with a requirement for a free-standing mono-pitch canopy and Twinfix worked closely with them to design, manufacture and install a striking canopy spanning 73 square metres.The canopy comprises of the innovative Multi-Link-Panel NF (Non-Fragile) roof glazing system which combines a maintenance-free aluminium frame fitted with virtually unbreakable solid polycarbonate glazing. This innovative system meets the non-fragile requirements outlined in ACR[M]001:2019 and sits over Western Red Cedar roof cladding, aluminium framework and posts, powder-coated in RAL 9005 jet black.The finished canopy enhances the aesthetics of the site, while offering protection from the elements for its visitors.

Saffron Walden County High School is an outstanding academy with over 2100 students on roll. Having already installed a large canopy in 2016 to provide a covered area for students to eat, increasing student numbers put increasing pressure on the existing catering facilities and by 2018 the school were desperate for additional dining capacity.Attention turned to the school’s derelict open-air swimming pool – a dangerous and unattractive area located between the sports hall and tennis courts. Archer Building Consultancy, a long-term provider of the premises services to the trust, proposed and delivered a scheme which involved emptying and removing the swimming pool along with the associated buildings and equipment, filling and levelling the area and installing a food pod and large covered seating area.Streetspace were contracted to design, manufacture and install a huge 25.0 x 15.0 m Triton Maxx clearspan polycarbonate roof canopy. With a symmetric form, the canopy provides covered seating for over 200 students as well as plenty of queuing space for the remote servery station. Integrated gutters and downpipes are connected to surface water drainage to help keep the area as dry as possible.A canopy of this size has many possible uses in addition to dining and social space – it could be used for assemblies, sports activities or as a parent waiting area, creating a truly multifunctional space. Windbreak cladding can be added as required in exposed locations to enable year-round use.

Falco recently manufactured, supplied and installed four bays of FalcoSpan cycle canopy for the new £15m Ellesmere Port Sports Leisure Village in Cheshire!The FalcoSpan cycle canopy was chosen for it’s light and spacious design providing maximum accessibility but great cycle coverage. The shelter was powder coated in RAL 9005 Jet Black to both increase durability and match the colour scheme of the leisure centre. Additionally hard wood cladding was added to the legs to soften the feel of the shelters and maintain a coherent theme of the overall design. For cycle parking, below ground fix Sheffield stands provide secure accommodation for up to 40 bikes.Ellesmere Port Sports Leisure Village is the prestigious leading regeneration project for Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWAC). CWAC has a forward thinking cycling policy and this installation provides real support towards that strategy. The development has been co-funded by Sport England on the site of the former Stanney High School and is home to a new purpose built sports and leisure facilities including an 8no lane 25m pool, separate teaching pool, 8 court sports hall to National Premier League Basketball standards with 1400 retractable seats, dance and exercise studios, gymnasium, spinning zone, wet and dry changing areas and café. The new state-of-the-art development is part of a £70m investment in leisure facilities across the borough.

The ChallengeThe design of two new This large urban regeneration project in Pennywell, Edinburgh, included 719 new dwellings. It comprised four different brownfield areas with existing communities between them, meaning that linkage with the existing communities is essential.Homes are arranged around a central open space within an area characterised by low density housing.The predominant material in the overall development is brick – chosen for its durable, long-lasting qualities and ability to introduce consistency and identity. Zinc cladding, white brick and render, with key entrances defined by coloured blocks, also feature.The SolutionThe design used a simple palette of materials and approach to detailing, to bring a consistent and clear identity. The focus is on attractive, simple proportions, both in the form of the buildings and in the development of the elevations.Two types of brick were proposed: one a red/brown multitone and the other a light brown/red multitone; to be used in conjunction with grey and dark grey rooftiles. The brick selected was Village Harvest Multi for it was consistent with the design and referenced developments nearby.The BenefitsThe architecture used throughout the development provides quality and variety.The buildings complement each other and create a distinct character and identity. The feature materials add to the rhythms and patterns in the elevations to create variety in the streetscape and mark key corners and frontages.The extensive development is a result of an investment of £42 million by the City of Edinburgh Council and includes £7.9 million grant funding from the Scottish Government.

So here we have a stunning steel framed barn conversion stripped down and retrofit with a huge hybrid timber frame panel system manufactured and installed by White Haus Bespoke Timber Frame. These panels are made up of 140mm insulated timber frame, 9mm OSB sheathing with Passive Purple External and two 50mm cross battens externally, followed by feathered edge cladding. With the internal side then adding an additional 50mm PIR insulation flowing into the joist zones with one continuous layer of Passive Purple and 25mm counter battens for services. This 326mm wall build up has used both Passive Purple and Passive Purple External which meet in the window formers to guarantee the build its internal airtight vapour control and external weatherproof breather membrane. The Joints in the OSB, PIR insulation and fixings into the timber frame studwork were all prepped like always using the BRUSH versions of both Passive Purple and Passive Purple External. This fibre reinforced product allows for a tough hold and elongation on any shrinkage the insulation or timber may have with building settlement or extreme changes in climate. With only a score of 2.5ach required, Intelligent Membranes have given this wonderfully unique home the full treatment for perfect performance to keep the HVAC system running on low hassle percentage and optimal performance output.

The new build St George’s Quay student accommodation is part of the Luneside East Regeneration Project in Lancaster, which will create a new quarter of the city with a mix of housing, commercial space, high quality open spaces and walking and cycling routes.In a prominent waterfront setting on the edge of the River Lune and built on the site of the former St George’s Mill, the St George’s Quay development comprises four student accommodation blocks, ranging from three to six storeys, delivering 431 bedrooms in clusters and studio apartments.PROJECT INFOThe buildings are modelled around the existing industrial architecture of the site. The client used a mix of materials, including brickwork that reflects the local vernacular and Corten steel cladding to emphasise the site’s industrial history.In addition to the 431 bedrooms, the development also provides a gym, games room, communal dining, study area, and on-site parking.The development aims to be a landmark in urban regeneration and high quality design and be an exemplar of sustainable developments.The brick selected for the scheme is Belgravia Gault Blend, a buff, thrown brick from Forterra’s Ecostock range. It has a rustic finish that resembles a handmade brick. Ecostock bricks are manufactured using the latest technology in sustainability and production efficiency, producing bricks with low embodied energy as well as advanced colour consistency, dimensional accuracy and quality.