"steel"

Two jointly developed buildings in Harpenden have been highly commended in the 'Best Kalzip project under 1500m2' category at Teamkal 2015. Both buildings - the Lawes Innovation Hub and the Rothamsted Conference Centre Extension - are part of the Rothamsted Centre for Research and Enterprise.The two building projects involved installing a Kalzip insulated site-assembled standing seam roof system. They also installed secret fix fascias and soffits across both buildings.SFS supplied stainless steel fixings to suit the project. The solution included a range of fasteners: SX, ASC-D, TDC-S, and powder-coated SX-L12. The package also included the SXL3-SV16, with its flexible V shaped washer, allowing secure thick to thin fixing,

Take a read of our case study where our team manufactured and installed laminate lockers at Alexandra Park in Oldham. The specification of 55 two-compartment solid-grade laminate lockers was 1775mm high, 296mm wide, and 500mm deep. Along with 2 two-compartments with measurements at 1775mm high, 296mm wide, and 300mm deep. Additionally, 3 one-compartment laminate lockers with specifications of 900mm high, 296mm wide, and 500mm deep.The body of the laminate lockers was powder coated in the shade ‘Ice’ which is our standard shade for the mild steel body. Whereas the laminate doors were in a range of colours, ‘Red, Yellow Piper, Orange Crayon and Mountain Grey’ by Abet Laminate. These are excellent shades as it creates an uplifting atmosphere due to the bright colours whilst being in an environment of nature.

800 square meters of Black Webnet creating an innovative Webnet Green Wall ,providing shade and year-round temperature control for this contemporary office building.The innovative design features our Webnet stainless steel mesh system suspended from roof supports to create a strong, secure and long-life structure for plants to climb up. Planters at first floor level encircle the building to provide low level greening, as well as a base for the climbers.Bringing nature to this urban landscape, the green wall not only makes the office look spectacular, but also provides a habitat for wildlife and significantly improves the building’s carbon footprint. The shade and evaporative cooling of the plants also help to cool the building in summer and insulate it in winter, helping to improve thermal efficiency and save energy costs.

Radii’s elegant double glazed Parallel 50 (45dB RW) and Parallel 100 (50dB RW) partitions with single glazed pivoting doors was used for Marsh McLennan’s office fronts, meeting rooms and larger ‘project rooms’ along with retro-fit room booking and aluminium faced tech units.Parallel 100 was also utilised with pocket sliding doors for the Level 6 conference rooms, while 4490mm high Parallel 100 extended screens were installed to the East Thames Room on Level 6 and conference rooms. This required structural steel work to support both the weight of the glass above the transom and the hanging weight of a folding wall below by others. Linear 59 (39dB Rw) with bi-parting sliding doors was used on small meeting hubs on Level 6.

The self-build project is situated in the small coastal village of Borth and stands prominent on the cliff overlooking three miles of gently shelving golden sand. The private dwelling offers a breath-taking vantage point for the homeowners achieved by Keystones carefully considered bespoke bow lintel design for a 13.7m curved span panoramic living room window on the upper floor.ChallengeKeystone’s technical team appreciates the importance of personalisation and were tasked with turning the clients dream vision for the family home into a reality. The unique structure would require a continuous irregular lintel to accommodate the variations of internal and external curves above each opening for the perimeter of the living room.The lintel was designed to incorporate the distinct feature window which will add interest to the room and soften the space where light would enter.SolutionKeystone’s technical engineer was tasked with creating a structural steel solution capable of accommodating the curved structure and unusual loading conditions – tailor made to suit the lifestyle requirements of the client.The engineer worked closely with the client to develop the lintel for the complex curved opening and provided comprehensive technical support from design through to installation. This included a site visit to ensure all measurements were accurate with minimal tolerance. For buildability and logistical purposes, the 13.7m bespoke bow lintel was delivered as five separate components and fixed together on site.The innovative and intelligent design fitted and aligned perfectly with the contours of the building and achieved the desired continual curved opening bringing a sense of flow and energy to the room. Keystone lintels also provide special lintels in stainless steel to prevent corrosion in buildings that are subjected to aggressive environmental conditions, typically in coastal locations within 500m of the shoreline.Testimonial“I was unsure if the vision I had for this project was even possible, but Keystone’s team of engineers offered a creative and effective solution, ensuring an incredibly personalised touch to the building.”Lee JenkinsSelf-builder

This reimagined building in Fitzrovia, which puts people, wellness, and sustainability first, is another project we are particularly proud of and here’s why.The Met Building is 12 storeys high and one of a few such examples in London’s West End. Its design was inspired by one of New York’s landmark buildings, Lever House, one of Manhattan’s leading examples, which inspired decades of US corporate architecture.While the building’s interiors are crafted to appeal to corporates and creatives, the Tower has been designed to put people first, offering breathtaking views across London, and focusing on efficiency and productivity.The whole roof terrace of the Met Building’s Podium was built over the top of the existing roof and on a huge network of steels that are designed to direct the load away from the roof below.The system used on the roof terrace is our TerraSmart® Rail Paving System finished in our Porcelain Paving Range. This system features super-strong, 100% recyclable aluminium joists, overlapping to create a lattice framework that delivers maximum support for the porcelain paving above. In addition to complementing the overall aesthetics of the entire project, the system is fully non-combustible (Class A1 fire-rated) and, as such, in perfect harmony with the focus on the wellness and safety of all the building’s occupants. The porcelain pavers were inspired by nature and feature the performance of high-quality ceramics and environmentally conscious manufacturing that aligns with the project’s focus on sustainability.And to top it all, the entire solution installed is backed by our RYNO® IGNO® 30-year system warranty and 60-year design life.In total, the RYNO® TerraSmart® Rail Paving System was installed on 3 terraces at the Met Building, all built on the existing steel frame, and the planters that add to the outdoor experience have been integrated into the design and placed directly on top of the RYNO paving system.We are proud to have collaborated very closely with Vert Projects (the Main Contractor) and The Landscape Partnership (the Landscape Architect) in delivering this great design.

DescriptionLocal Smet Supported Partner, a seasoned Lidl Contractor, McCallion Group machine applied the LIDL External Render System onto Poroton blocks externally using as Base Coat: Bauprotec 850 M – Lightweight Lime Cement Render, and as Key Coat: Change of substrate concrete/steel pillar/Poroton block or mass concrete and insulated plinths: Bauprotec RHS Multi-Purpose Render.The internal Render System specification onto Poroton blockwork consists of a base of Coat: Bauprotec 850 M, Lightweight Lime Cement Render, sponge floated in warehouse areas, and skim finished in sales areas. Key Coat: Change of substrate concrete/steel pillar/Poroton block: Bauprotec RHS is used.The Irish LIDL render spec, available from SMET consists of:Bauprotec 850 M is a factory-produced Lightweight Lime Cement Render, specially designed for machine or hand application produced to EN 998-1: 2010 and is CE Marked.Bauprotec RHS is a CE Marked, factory-produced highly polymer-modified render specially designed for hand and machine application produced to EN 998-1: 2010.The special render properties; lightweight, low thermal conductivity, high yield, and the Smet Supported Partner superior technical backup, are key factors in choosing SMET.SMET is committed to delivering consistently superior quality, German-made Render Systems to Lidl Plastering and rendering/plastering contractors across the UK and ROI.  If you’d like to speak to us about your Lidl job – contact SMET.All LIDL spec SMET Render System products are available directly from Smet Building Products Ltd, which ensures the contractor has a superior level of technical backup in the machine application of the LIDL specification.Related DownloadsTDS CASEA Bauprotec 850 M – Lightweight Lime Cement RenderTDS CASEA Bauprotec RHS – Multi-Purpose Render

1,200SQM OF SOTECH’S OPTIMA FC SYSTEM IN 2MM CORTEN A HAS BEEN USED IN THE COMPLETION OF A BRAND-NEW PURPOSE-BUILT CENTRE FOR SPECIALIST RESEARCH IN DIGITAL RAILWAY ENGINEERING AT THE UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM.Clad in the distinguished steel Corten material, which weathers over a period of 6-36 months, the material was selected as a direct nod to the rail industry, with the Corten providing the same visual impact as railway lines and track signalling.Designed by Associated Architects, the Corten material has fully weathered, linking perfectly to the Engineering disciplines the University will deliver.The building represents the first phase of construction work for a £46.5m School of Engineering development at the University of Birmingham. Procured through the Constructing West Midlands framework, the 3,000m2 facility offers a variety of contemporary and flexible design and research spaces that act as an incubator for innovation, strengthening teaching and building research partnerships.Open offices, meeting rooms, seminar rooms and event spaces will enable industry partners to come and work directly with University experts and researchers.TESTIMONIALSJamie Smith, Estimator at Sotech said: “The façade was expertly installed by Alucraft Ltd with the finish quality testament to the hard work put in to complete this project”.Warren Jukes, director at Associated Architects, was quoted on the UKRRIN web site as saying: “The completion of the UKRRIN facility is an important milestone within the wider School of Engineering project. We are thrilled with the distinct identity achieved using weathered steel, which epitomises the industrial nature of the railway industry in a contemporary and refined style – juxtaposing yet complimenting the buff brick of the School of Engineering and traditional styles of the iconic red brick buildings on campus.Nick Gibb, deputy managing director for the Midlands at Willmott Dixon, added: “Despite completing the final stages of the project during the Covid-19 pandemic, our teams optimised industry-leading safety and social distancing measures, which meant we were able to remain on-site during the pandemic and ultimately deliver this phase of the project on time.”

1,200SQM OF SOTECH’S OPTIMA FC SYSTEM IN 2MM CORTEN A HAS BEEN USED IN THE COMPLETION OF A BRAND-NEW PURPOSE-BUILT CENTRE FOR SPECIALIST RESEARCH IN DIGITAL RAILWAY ENGINEERING AT THE UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM.Clad in the distinguished steel Corten material, which weathers over a period of 6-36 months, the material was selected as a direct nod to the rail industry, with the Corten providing the same visual impact as railway lines and track signalling.Designed by Associated Architects, the Corten material has fully weathered, linking perfectly to the Engineering disciplines the University will deliver.The building represents the first phase of construction work for a £46.5m School of Engineering development at the University of Birmingham. Procured through the Constructing West Midlands framework, the 3,000m2 facility offers a variety of contemporary and flexible design and research spaces that act as an incubator for innovation, strengthening teaching and building research partnerships.Open offices, meeting rooms, seminar rooms and event spaces will enable industry partners to come and work directly with University experts and researchers.TESTIMONIALSJamie Smith, Estimator at Sotech said: “The façade was expertly installed by Alucraft Ltd with the finish quality testament to the hard work put in to complete this project”.Warren Jukes, director at Associated Architects, was quoted on the UKRRIN web site as saying: “The completion of the UKRRIN facility is an important milestone within the wider School of Engineering project. We are thrilled with the distinct identity achieved using weathered steel, which epitomises the industrial nature of the railway industry in a contemporary and refined style – juxtaposing yet complimenting the buff brick of the School of Engineering and traditional styles of the iconic red brick buildings on campus.Nick Gibb, deputy managing director for the Midlands at Willmott Dixon, added: “Despite completing the final stages of the project during the Covid-19 pandemic, our teams optimised industry-leading safety and social distancing measures, which meant we were able to remain on-site during the pandemic and ultimately deliver this phase of the project on time.”

Project detailsAfter 30 years of manufacturing, a tumbler room floor at Alinabal Inc.’s facility had begun to seriously deteriorate. The company uses a heavy duty soap to wash and deburr steel parts in their industrial tumblers, then pours the liquid out onto the flooring beneath and rinses it into a trough.Over time, harsh chemicals in the soap began to eat away at the floor. Even to the point that they had begun to expose the aggregate in the concrete! Worried about continued water leakage as well as further contamination to the floor, Alinabal Inc. began to look for a solution.Alinabal Inc. knew that this project would require a unique product, as they were looking for something that would achieve minimal downtime during the repair. They were also in need of a product that would be able to withstand wet conditions regularly, since this area was still to be used for washing and deburring steel parts in the future.In addition to these qualities, Alinabal Inc. wished to use a self-levelling product with minimal floor prep. Having used our products in the past, Alinabal Inc. again turned to our expert sales team for suggestions.Our solutionAlinabal Inc. asked our technical advisors what the best product for the job was. They were recommended and used Flowtop®.Flowtop® is ready for foot traffic in 6 hours. In this case, it drastically cut the downtime during repairs with its quick curing properties, and because it is 3 times stronger than standard concrete, it is also able to withstand the rinsing process that the floor would be subject to post repair.The self-levelling characteristics of Flowtop® were just what Alinabal Inc. was looking for, and as a bonus, it created a slip resistant finish for enhanced employee safety!Through the use of Flowtop®, Alinabal, Inc. was able to obtain a newly finished floor, and return to daily operations in a timely fashion. Employees could again efficiently squeegee water into the disposal trough, and the floor itself was no longer in danger of contamination from

This is the new bespoke cycle hub Falco recently designed, manufactured, supplied and installed this spring for Kenley Station in south Croydon. Making use of the flagship FalcoHub design, the new cycle hub has been fitted with the tried and tested FalcoLevel-Eco two-tier cycle rack, providing commuters with up to 16 secure cycle parking spaces.The bespoke 6.5m x 4.2m cycle hub has been fitted with an electric sliding door, a secure access system, LED lighting, a FalcoFix 2.0 cycle repair station, bespoke branding graphics and a cladding combination of sustainable hardwood slats coupled with powder coated galvanised steel in a ‘Moss Green’ RAL colour.The cycle hub also provides secure accommodation for up to four cargo bikes, e-cargo bikes, adaptive bikes, recumbent bikes, tandems, tricycles, oversized and upright cycles or bike trailers.In addition to the cycle hub, Falco also provided a bespoke solution to store the clients refuse units.Rail passengers using pedal power can apply at the ticket office for a free security fob to gain entrance to the facility now.The images attached show the new cycle hub addition, installed next to platform 2, off Station Road.The whole shelter is a bespoke contemporary design of the classic Falco Cycle Hub shelter, which features clean lines through the glass cladding and supported by stainless steel glass clamps. The steelwork is hot dip galvanised to BS EN ISO 1461 and also meets UK structural design laws with EN 1090 accreditation. Rainwater is collected via innovative integral gutters as part of the roof system and a bespoke bund ensure that the cycle hub is weather proof.For more information regarding the cycle hub scheme at Kenley Station or any other product from our cycle parking and shelter portfolio, please contact our helpful sales team on 01538 380080.

Located on St Mary’s Street, Cardiff, Hodge House is a beautifully renovated Grade II listed eight-storey building. Originally constructed in 1915 on the site of Cardiff’s original Victorian Town Hall, the building was home to the Welsh Co-Operative for many years.Architect Stride Treglown led the refurbishment of this historic building, converting it into 110,000 sq. ft of modern office space. Working in partnership with Paramount Interiors, they specified Allgood’s Modric and Holt ranges throughout. The development, winner of ‘Workplace Design of the Year’ and shortlisted for ‘Development of the Year’ at the Insider Wales Property Awards 2020, has had its interior transformed to suit the next generation of occupiers while showcasing the stunning original features including exposed decorative cast-iron columns and riveted steel structures from the 1930s.Our Modric and Holt ranges matched this design intent. The oak Holt range was chosen to complement the historic features, while the clean functional aesthetic of our Modric range perfectly complemented the industrial chic of the interior spaces.Helen Bartlett, Design Director at Paramount Interiors, commented:“Allgood’s willingness to consult with us and provide expert insight into how best to meet the specification at the design stage was welcome, and ensured the brief was met to the highest possible standards. The chosen products provide a finish of premium quality and we look forward to working with them again in the future.”Allgood’s Modric range is made from solid grade 316 stainless steel and encompasses the full suite of door furniture, including the variety of handles fitted on Hodge House. All products have been engineered to last a lifetime and come with a 25-year warranty for total peace of mind.Holt, designed by architect Alex Mowat, is a Nordic-inspired range of super-circular door and bathroom products made from European oak. Holt lever handles are fitted throughout Hodge House.

Client: Grove Developments/Arora HotelsContract value: £362kProducts used:  0.74kN loading stainless steel with glass balustrade to stairs1.5kN loading structural glass balustrade to link bridgesThe dual-brand Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn Express, which operates under Arora Hotels, is located at Heathrow Terminal 4 and opened in 2018. It consists of 300 rooms as well as business and meeting facilities. The building is directly connected to Heathrow’s Terminal 4 via an air bridge and also offers convenient access to the London Underground, Heathrow Express train service and nearby major motorway routes. We were instructed to supply and install more than 600 metres of balustrades, as well as over 300 metres of wall fixed handrails during the hotel’s construction phase. The balustrades used for the project were 1.5kn structural glass balustrades to bridges and 0.74kN loading stainless steel with glass balustrade to stairs. We provided approximately 300 metres of structural glass balustrades to the hotel’s link bridges. At the design stage of the project, we were advised that the bridges could deflect by 25mm, so our balustrade design had to accommodate this. The solution was simple but very effective – we left a 5mm gap in between each five-metre length of track, which was not noticeable when walking along the bridges but allowed for adequate movement in the structure with no damage to the balustrades or the finishes, and no compromise to the overall look. In addition, we adapted our handrail system to provide protection to the walls where guests wheel trollies and luggage into the hotel. By fixing handrails along the flooring close to the walls, it provided a functional yet attractive solution to avoid any marks or scratches that luggage might create.The overall result was a mix of balustrades to the hotel’s stairs and link bridges, plus handrail finishes to the high-traffic areas of the premises that all fit in with the building’s modern and clean design. 

Cornwall County Council was responsible for upgrading and renovating an existing stairway to Blue Buoy Beach at Porthleven. A specification and sample were given to the Council, who approached three different fabricators/installers, all of whom came to PcP for an engineered safety solution on treads/landings.Insteel Industries is one of the largest architectural fabricators in the county of Cornwall. Insteel successfully won the contract to supply and install, In looking for the right partner who could offer loading criteria and technical information that complied with the relevant standards.Project criteriaThe Blue Buoy stairway project specification initially requested stainless steel and open-mesh with an alternative for a “Heel-proof version with a 20mm gap and a durbar plate for a slip-resistant surface.The SolutionPcP proposed a galvanised alternative instead of stainless steel but 140 microns and anti-slip nosing for a slip-resistant surface. The proposed solution was cost-effective, safe, durable and matching budget criteria.PcP proposed the 05m nosing as it has a much better slip-resistant on the front edge. In addition, PcP suggested a 33/8 mm pattern would be more suitable for heels than a 20mm gap.Insteel Industry forwarded a drawing/specification sheet to Cornwall Council, who then accepted the 33/8 mm pattern. However, there were concerns that we couldn’t offer 140 microns with our 2/3mm bars.PcP provided a sample that was Shotblast before galvanising with six localised readings of coating thicknesses. Insteel Industries presented the product sample to the council architect for final approval.The resultThe stairways are suitable for access with all types of footwear and pets also to access the beach. The 05m nosing on the treads comply with the slip-resistance recommendations of Bs7976 which are a superior alternative to the durbar plate initially specified. Shotblasting offered an increase in the thickness of galvanizing treatment and enhanced corrosion resistance, providing a more durable product. Perforated rear riser allows water to pass through when storms and high waves hit the staircase.

OverviewJaguar Land Rover (JLR) is the UK’s largest car manufacturer, built around two iconic British car brands: Land Rover, the world’s leading manufacturer of premium all-wheel-drive vehicles; and Jaguar, one of the world’s premier luxury sports saloon and sports car marques.With the two brands being brought together & established as one company in 2008 by the Tata Group, the brand is not only known by consumers as a creator of luxury cars but they are also considered in the trade as a reborn company of thriving creativity and one who isn’t afraid to tear up the rule book.They were the first car manufacture to cut their third party costs by producing their own steel and in 2014 the Jaguar XR was the first vehicle in the world to use aluminium alloy grade RC5754, which contained up to 75% recycled aluminium. The much lighter body gives a far superior fuel economy and in turn reduces fuel emissions. PartnershipHaving successfully tendered for 4 new sites across the UK, HAG Ltd. specified various fire protection & security products, to not only meet the current fire & safety regulations but also to aesthetically enhance their surroundings.Several major UK construction firms were chosen to complete the new sites, however HAG Ltd. were one of a limited number of contractors that were specified on all sites.This is testament to the excellent reputation that HAG Ltd. has across the UK within the construction industry, being first choice to assist with the completion of these land mark buildings. The ProjectHAG Ltd. worked alongside market leading construction firms such as Midas Construction and MCS Group at new sites in Bristol, Northampton, Brighton & Guildford, fitting fire shutters, fire curtains & steel doors.HAG’s fire protection doors, shutters & fire curtains offer an exceptionally high standard of specification, performance and protection and are fire tested & compliant to the latest standard BS EN 16034:2014 & CE Marked to BS EN 13241-1:2003. HAG were one of the first UK companies to have their entire range tested & verified to these high standards, when the latest Government legislation changed in November 2019.JLR’s impressive new land mark buildings, often follow the Duel Arch concept, bringing together both brands, spacious showrooms, office space, significant outside & roof top parking. For example the new Guy Salmon facility in Bristol, which opened in January 2021, is vast at 72,000 sq-ft and boasts capacity for more than 400 vehicles. This development alone within the JLR brand, cost £12.3m, and it is therefore understandable that not only is it essential to meet all fire & security regulations, that also their significant investment & stock level needs the highest level of protection.The HAG steel door range includes external fire & security doors, which provide excellent fire protection & the highest level of security. These can be fitted to all external access points of the building and are used to ensure security is maintained. Our insurance certified steel doors have triple point sash locks with high security cylinders and are anti-protected to reduce risk of key copying. HAG can supply an alternative high security multi point panic hardware for fire escape situations. Our in house power coating finishes are available in a wide range of colours, which offered JLR complete control over their design and how our products were going to compliment their surroundings.‘As the Jaguar Land Rover range has evolved and grown since our Jaguar and Land Rover showrooms were established in Bristol, our sales and aftersales experience needed to evolve with them. What we’ve created with this new landmark building in Bristol is a luxurious space for our customers not just to use, but to enjoy. We now have the space and facilities to showcase the entire spectrum of the Jaguar Land Rover range, shining the brightest possible light on these great vehicles to our customers in Bristol and beyond.’Simon CraneHead of Business, Guy Salmon Bristol HAG Ltd. offer maintenance & service contracts, as well as a 24 hour repair service. Repair and service is an essential element of HAG’s portfolio, with the company offering a unique and bespoke maintenance and repair programme tailored for each individual client.

Merchant Square was the largest Grade A office development ever to be undertaken in Belfast at the time of completion. Aluprof systems were used to help transform an existing office block with a completely new building envelope. The building has been entirely let to PwC and is their biggest office space outside of London with 3,000 employees.The external envelope was completed using Aluprof's MB-SE75 unitised curtain wall facade system and was then specified in an anodised finish, which then contrasts with the external Corten steel used in a vertical column emphasis to meet the architects design. With the rise in use of unitised curtain wall systems for medium sized projects, this option is becoming a real alternative to a traditional curtain wall solution, especially as costs are becoming more competitive. Unitised systems can also offer up to a 50% reduction in installation periods which can offer significant savings on the project programme.

BLÜCHER UK were pleased to supply some bespoke channels and shower drains for a brand new leisure centre opening in the New Year.With a big range of activities and services available, including swimming pools, showers, saunas, steam rooms and communal areas, the installed drainage system needed to be robust, efficient, and visually aesthetic.Offering a contemporary timeless design, with an exceptional flow rate, BLÜCHER channels were the best option. Minimal downtime and maintenance were required by the customer due to the high usage of the leisure centre, with a further focus on retaining a hygienic atmosphere.Working alongside contractors ISG and GHBS, BLÜCHERs stainless steel drainage solution has provided Knaresborough Leisure Centre with a fully functional drainage system, ensuring they can meet the demands of their customers while preserving a safe and hygienic environment.

The East Slope Student Village is a development of 32 buildings of three to six storey flats and three to four storey town houses accommodating 2,113 beds for students at the University of Sussex. Demolition of existing buildings commenced for the redevelopment of a lightweight steel frame mixed-use facility which includes a kitchen, student hub and retail space. Due to the steep slope of the site, a 30,000m³ of bulk excavation was required and buildings were arranged in linear blocks. The BREEAM Excellent rated development was designed to blend with the existing Sir Basil Spence campus and includes grassland as an environmental impact measure.Cellecta’s ScreedBoard 28 was specified by Pascall+Watson due to its excellent impact and airborne acoustic performance. ScreedBoard was recognised in the housebuilder awards and took home the winner’s award for ‘best internal/interior product’.Balfour Beatty was awarded this 30,000m² contract for this student accommodation in Sussex.

Arable farmer Ivan Banister talked to various agricultural building companies for advice before using local contractors to construct both parts of the new grain store. The first part of the new building was constructed with the secondary expansion undertaken and completed in time for the harvest. Eternit Profile 6 roofing sheets were selected for the project and installed by MJ Barrett.The roof was the most important consideration for Ivan and it was vital that the roofing material used on the store would resist the pressure from temperature and weather without cracking. Any problems in the roof and subsequent leakage would cause serious damage to harvested crops.Condensation had also proved a problem in older, steel roofed storage facilities at Warden Farms and the vapour permeable nature of Eternit fibre cement roofing sheets helps to minimise moisture levels within the new storage building.

Forward thinking rural livingSimon and Fran Ackerley set out to design a traditional farmhouse with a modern twist for themselves and their 3 sons on their 200 acre farm in the stunning rural location at Kilnwick Percy, near Pocklington in Yorkshire. The main designer and contractor was Anderson York Ltd., this relationship proved to be a great team in making some exciting material choices. Including premium blue Welsh natural roofing slates and a contemporary galvanised steel gutter system which were provided by Burton Roofing Merchants. The merchants remarked that the Lindab rainwater system, "makes a striking statement but ultimately benefits very low maintenance".Owner, Simon commented that the long term view has ruled in most instances as they didn’t want any regrets. The finished project is a real pleasure to see and has had a lot of press coverage.

Upgrade from problematic gutteringThis four bedroom detached house was built in the historic market town of Bury St Edmunds in the year 2000. The property is surrounded by trees which cause gutters to become regularly clogged by leaves resulting in overflow during heavy rain. The owners made a decision to replace the original guttering with a larger size and took the opportunity to upgrade the budget UPVC system with stylish galvanised steel. Gutter Centre recommended Lindab Magestic due to its industry leading galvanisation and smart solution products. Efficient leaf traps components were integrated into the design to ensure easy ongoing maintenance and prevent drain blockage. The customer is very happy that the overflow problem has now been eliminated and loves how the new system gives his property increased street appeal which neighbours are now hoping to replicate. 

Kings Cross Railway has been one of the largest and most exciting London redevelopments in recent years. In Victorian times Kings Cross was a thriving industrial area but by the end of last century, mostly had fallen into disrepair and dis-used buildings, sidings, warehouses and contaminated land. The move of the Channel Tunnel rail link from Waterloo to St Pancras in 1996 meant the need for change at the 67 acre site. The glass roof consists of two adjacent Victorian steel ‘barrel-vaults’ which now feature our PlasGard patent glazing system. A special glazing bar for use at the ridge was designed with a low external capping so as not to cast shadow onto the photo-voltaic cells to ensure optimal performance. Elsewhere laminated clear glass was used for safety in accordance with overhead glazing guidelines.

Willow Crescent in Normanton consists of forty seven post-war Cornish Units, each of which was designed to offer temporary housing after World War II and a life expectancy of around fifteen to twenty years.Wakefield and District Housing Association manage the homes at Willow Crescent and invested in a renovation program to boost the standards of each homeThe ideal material for the roofing and mansards needed to look traditional and keep the look and feel of the units and despite the refresh, each unit needed to blend in with the surroundings yet maintain the unique look that Cornish Units are known forMetrotile Lightweight Steel Roofing Systems were specified for the replacement of both the rooftops and mansards, offering each home the many benefits that Metrotile is known for and the low weight of each profile places less strain on both the supporting frame of the homes and the foundations.

PROJECT OVERVIEWThe Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts was designed by Foster & Partners and commissioned by main contractor Kier Eastern. The brief was to replace 30-year-old partitioning with a system capable of fitting in with a visually aesthetic solution which was in-keeping with the existing architectural style.OUR SCOPE OF WORKThe demands of supplying architectural partitioning solutions within a visual arts centre environment meant that only the highest standards of design and functionality would be acceptable. From the start of the design phase, we worked in partnership with Norman Foster and Kier to create unique modular steel and glass partitions throughout the building. Bespoke doors provided the ultimate finish. Our approach was to ensure that functionality and aesthetics worked together to deliver consistency and innovation throughout the building. Attention to detail was paramount to the success of installing bespoke partitions within the creative surroundings of the Centre. 

What used to be the site of the Cannon Brewery, dating back to the 1670s, and the home of London’s largest brewery, is now a modular arrangement of 198 apartments with a selection of one, two and three bedroom flats and five town houses built around a landscaped courtyard. The project was designed by architects Hamilton Associates and completed in 2022.Literally a stone’s throw from our Studio in Clerkenwell, London, this was a remediation project, where the existing timber was removed and replaced with our BalcaSmart Aluminium system, in order to make sure the building complied with new fire regulations. The rear of the building also features our TerraSmart Pedestal system.Our aluminium decking system is non-combustible, achieves Euroclass A2-s1,d0 to EN 13501-1:2018, is ideal for all steel, bolt-on and cantilever balconies, and most importantly ensures the safety of all residents. This is what futureproofing is all about.

The Margam Green Energy Plant is a long-term, multi-million pound investment into the Welsh economy to help meet the country’s renewable energy targets whilst also strengthening the country’s energy security. A durable concrete was required for the storage silo that housed wood chip to feed the plant.For this project Tarmac suggested their TOPROC SY be used as an overlay on the finished concrete slab as a protective high strength screed. TOPROC SY comprises a micro-silica mix with steel and macro fibres designed to give high levels of abrasive and impact resistance. This product is highly suited to heavy industrial areas such as container handling, metal recycling, waste, loading bays and any other aggressive environments. The main benefit is extended length of time the product will perform compared with traditional concrete therefore saving cost on continual replacement.

A Newcastle canopy provides an outdoor learning area and a covered play space at Hyde Park School in Plymouth.The double-sided gullwing version of the popular Newcastle canopy was the perfect choice for this project, providing a covered space extending from existing school buildings out into the playground.Outdoor learning space is playing an increasingly important role at the school which is creating an environment to meet the developmental needs of all students.The Newcastle Gullwing canopy was customised by Broxap to fit the space available, following the profile of the existing building, and to meet the needs of Hyde Park School which is now part of the Learning Academies Trust.As well as being manufactured to unique dimensions, we also offered the school a range of customisation options which are available with our canopy and shelter products.It specified a powder coated finish to the galvanised steel framework, choosing blue to match the school colours.

Renovation stripping out the building completely and rebuilding the walls, Passive Purple® was applied in between the connections of the internal side of the external walls which were a combination of masonry, timber, and steel frame. The ground floor ceiling was removed exposing the warped old timber joists with cracks in the surrounding brickwork and mortar. This was given attention to detail using Passive Purple® Brush to seal above an airtight foam to guarantee the airtightness of this major air leak zone before the final spray coat of Passive Purple® airtight membrane was applied. Passive Purple® was also used to seal window and door linings, ready for the new triple glazed windows to go in. Passive Purple® was sprayed on all the walls and ceiling. This is an ongoing project that still is awaiting an air test, the client is looking to hit 2.5 ach and installing MVHR.

Our team at Helmsman manufactured and installed 49 two-compartment bespoke Z lockers, which is a wet specification as they are ideal for environments where it is humid, our aluminium & stainless-steel body with solid grade laminate is a perfect choice. The bespoke Z lockers were requested to have an internal self and fully perforated base which allows airflow through the lockers.The laminate Z lockers were installed with stands, 1 nest of 1, 2 nest of 2, and 14 nest of 3. The specification of the stand was 461mm high overall, 298mm wide, and 450mm deep with 1m rivets,Our Z lockers are a fantastic choice as it allow two people to store their belongings in the footprint of one locker, the design of this locker is modern, innovative, and stylish. Additionally, users would be able to hang their clothes in a taller section of the locker, which reduces the risk of wrinkling.

Project: Broxbourne Business CentreDate: 2022 Background:·        APL were engaged with the architect early in the project design and specification process·        APL worked closely with the architect and powder-coating manufacturers to select the correct colour shade for the perforated areas·        APL’s design team assisted with detailing the challenging interfaces between different cladding types·        APL provided all structural calculations Systems:·        550m² of APL SnapLoc™ traditional standing seam system in steel with a RAL 7016 PUF coating ·        700m² of APL AP18HR-Airwall™ perforated sinusoidal profile with an APL Oxide3 PPC coating ·        APL Tritherm™ GALV sub-framing to SFS substructure for APL SnapLoc™ areas·        APL AluE™ Tritherm aluminium sub-framing for AP18HR-Airwall™ areas·        All flashings, fixings and accessories  Building Location:·        Broxbourne

Qbic Manchester, the fourth property in the Qbic portfolio, mixes striking design with admirable eco-credentials and affordability to deliver a truly eclectic destination hotel. Working with Qbic’s own interior designers and contractor, MY Construction, Style was specified to create flexible space in the hotel’s meeting rooms whilst also complementing the breath-takingly chic decor.Finished in a stunning steel blue, the two identical Dorma Hüppe Variflex glass moveable walls incorporate telescopic end panels, giving a truly aesthetic finish. With 52dB acoustic integrity and semi-automatic operation the walls can be quickly manoeuvred into place, dividing or opening out the meeting areas to meet the demands of the day.Combining a stylish crittall effect with a reeded manifestation added to the glass to match the room’s fixed glazing, these moveable partitioning walls not only add flexibility to the hotel’s space but also enhance the overall interior design.Qbic has reinvented the concept of affordable hotels, by focusing on what matters to its stylish, savvy, environmentally responsible guests. Located on the lively Deansgate strip, the Manchester hotel offers 261 pet-friendly rooms, boasts comfortable king-sized beds, has high-speed WiFi, plus water-efficient power showers and sustainable toiletries.“This hotel oozes the ‘wow’ factor,” said Andy Gibson, Style’s director for the North.“The moveable walls are effortless to manoeuvre, enabling hotel staff to create either three separate meeting rooms, one large and one small room, or open up the entire area."Semi-automatic operation ensures the acoustic seals are always applied to exactly the right pressure, offering high levels of privacy when meetings are in progress. The Qbic design team’s vision of a blue steel finish in this vibrant environment was truly inspiring and something we were proud to be able to deliver.”Style is the UK market leader in moveable, folding and partitioning walls and its glass range has expanded this year with a complete range of acoustic and non-acoustic solutions – each with manual, semi-automatic or fully automatic operation.

A Degafloor Approved Installer - The National Flooring Company Ltd were approached by a A 4-star hotel, in the South of England, who had decided to update their flooring system around the swimming pool. The existing floor tiles, which had started to debond posed a trip hazard and therefore needed to be replaced. The client also advised they were experiencing problems with standing water.Following the removal of the existing floor tiles, the installation of a new screed was required to build back the levels and ensure there were adequate falls in the floor for water to run back into the pool. Throughout the installation, the gym remained open, and it had been advised that the pool closure needed to be kept to an absolute minimum. The National Flooring Company installed the Degafloor Deep Fill Mortar Repair system, a fast-curing underlayment, which ensured the refurbishment programme could continue with no downtime due to curing.The existing drain was removed and replaced, along with the light box and leveller covers, which all received new stainless-steel units. A new trim was fixed around the perimeter of the pool and the Degafloor resin system, which has an excellent bond to metal surfaces, was abutted up to all the stainless-steel items. The Degafloor QTA system used within the project, is a quartz trowelled system that can be laid to falls. The system is broadcast with aggregate to provide an extremely slip resistant finish, even under wet conditions, making it ideally suited to a swimming pool surround. Coved skirting was installed around the perimeter of the room creating a completely impervious finish, with no weak spots and therefore reducing future maintenance costs. The full refurbishment was completed over 12 days, ensuring that the closure was kept to a bare minimum.The clients main requirements were they required an anti-slip floor that would eliminate the current situation they had with standing water. They specifically requested that the closure was kept to a minimum as they are a "member's club" as well as facilitating the hotel, which remained open throughout the installation. The client was extremely satisfied with the end result and felt they now have a floor finish that is much better suited to their environment.

DescriptionLocal Smet Supported Partner, master builders NRS Group Construction, machine-applied the LIDL External Render System onto Poroton blocks externally using as Base Coat: Bauprotec 850 M – Lightweight Lime Cement Render, and as Key Coat: Change of substrate concrete/steel pillar/Poroton block or mass concrete and insulated plinths: Bauprotec RHS Multi-Purpose Render.The internal Render System specification onto Poroton blockwork consists of a base of Coat: Bauprotec 850 M, Lightweight Lime Cement Render, sponge floated in warehouse areas, and skim finished in sales areas. Key Coat: Change of substrate concrete/steel pillar/Poroton block: Bauprotec RHS is used.The Irish LIDL render spec, available from SMET consists of:Bauprotec 850 M is a factory-produced Lightweight Lime Cement Render, specially designed for machine or hand application produced to EN 998-1: 2010 and is CE Marked.Bauprotec RHS is a CE Marked, factory-produced highly polymer-modified render specially designed for hand and machine application produced to EN 998-1: 2010.The special render properties; lightweight, low thermal conductivity, high yield, and the Smet Supported Partner’s superior technical backup, are key factors in choosing SMET. SMET is committed to delivering consistently superior quality, German-made Render Systems to Lidl Plastering and rendering/plastering contractors across the UK and ROI.  If you’d like to speak to us about your Lidl job – contact SMET.All LIDL spec SMET Render System products are available directly from Smet Building Products Ltd, who ensures the contractor has a superior level of technical backup in the machine application of the LIDL specification.SMET is committed to delivering consistently superior quality, German-made Render Systems to Lidl Plastering and rendering/plastering contractors across the UK and ROI.  If you’d like to speak to us about your Lidl job – contact SMET.

THE LOCATIONThis brand-new build to rent development is situated along the Canning Dock in the centre of Liverpool. It’s the perfect location as it has loads of amenities close by with the shopping centre a couple of minutes down the road. The award-winning building has an unmissable appearance and a modern feel throughout the building.THE PROJECTDesigned by award-winning architect Leach Roach Walker, The Copper House spans 16 floors and is home to 383 one, two and three bedroom apartments, all available for rent. The apartments are designed to the highest specifications of modern city living to provide comfort and stunning views, with an abundance of natural light. The Safety Letterbox Company and the copper house have a long-running partnership and were the perfect choice to build a mail and parcel solution for their residents. Whilst working in the build to rent industry copper house realised the importance of having a parcel solution in their building.THE PRODUCTThe Safety Letterbox Company worked alongside the interior designer to create a new corner system that maximized the efficiency of the building. The copper house also wanted a mail and parcel solution that could be extended if needed in the future, making the solution perfect for future-proofing the building.The team went for 400 steel 2 letterboxes in multiple sizes in order to fill their mail needs. The steel 2 boxes were banked on a hidden table supports and were engraved with gravel gold infill which gave the combination system and direct contrast which gave it a high-end look. This product is future-proofed with the option to add on in the future if needed.Copper House also added myRENZbox to make sure they could manage their Parcel deliveries. The myRENZbox modular had seven extensions with different size doors in order to maintain their parcel deliveries. The Safety Letterbox Company has an algorithm to work out how many parcel boxes a building requires. myRENZbox was polyester powder coated with the colour RAL 7026 Granite Grey with a finished Gloss. Copper House also opted for a barcode scanner to help deliveries become more efficient. MyRENZboxes has also futureproofed Copper House with the option to extend the myRENZbox in the future.

Situated on Millbank in London, Tate Britain is a tourist hotspotdedicated to the finest British art dating back to the 16th century.The site originally housed the Millbank prison which was the maindeparture point for criminals being sent to Australia. Following thedemolition of the prison, the National Gallery of British Art (Tate Britainas of 2000) was opened in 1897 by Sir Henry Tate, making it the firstof the four Tate galleries.The building has gone through numerous renovations since it’s 19thcentury opening. In 1987, the Clore gallery was opened and wenton to win a Royal Institute of Architects award the following year.More recently in 2006, Caruso St. John architects began a long termdevelopment and renovation project which aimed to create ninenew galleries. The redevelopment featured a number of differentrenovations spanning seven years, whereby Allgood were chosento supply an Ironmongery and an access control solution in the newgalleries.Working on such a prestigious project, it was evident that aestheticswere of paramount importance. The architect desired a unique finishon items, so Allgood worked closely to produce a shot peened finishon some of the stainless steel furniture. To create a clean aestheticon doors which required push plates and signage, Allgood createdan all in one solution by shot peening stainless steel plates, blankingoff areas to create contrasting areasfor signage to be screen printedwithin.Many doors within the gallery space were of traditional archeddesign which caused a challenge on fire doors with self-closingrequirements. Allgood’s solution to this issue was to specify floorsprings combined with projection hinges to provide a specificationthat would self-close in conjunction with the door geometry.Furthermore, to minimise the aesthetic impact of the floor springs,bespoke tile trays with access holes were created to conceal thefloor springs whilst providing easy access for floor spring adjustment.This provided an aesthetically pleasing solution for a very technicalapplication.Having previously worked with the museum on their Mantonshop, Allgoodwere well prepared for this project and the existingrelationship enabled a smooth operation that was completed on timeand within budget.

The Hising Bridge is to become the new landmark of Gothenburg. Spanning over the central part of Scandinavia’s most significant commercial harbour, The Hissing Bridge will replace the existing Göta River Bridge from 1939.Aesthetically, the Hising bridge will become ‘a street’ within the city, for people to walk on and below and, to enjoy spectacular views. The Hising bridge will bind the Göta River shores for cars, busses, trams, pedestrians, and bicycles.The Hising Bridge project involves many partners, entrepreneurs, and subcontractors. PcP was involved in the project to design and supply safety solutions for access walkways, platforms, stairs, and architectural ceilings. The new bridge is approximately 440 metres long.Project criteriaThe construction work for the Hising Bridge began in 2013 and will replace the old worn-out bridge from 1939. The project involves a range of highly experienced partners within construction and infrastructure: Trafikværket and Skanska, to name a few. The project prescribed stainless steel gratings to decorate the bridge with an architectural ceiling that would blend into the atmosphere and surroundings. The purpose is to give people an unforgettable experience of the architecture and the bridge lights during the day and on a “special” night.The criteria for the ceiling of stainless-steel gratings were prescribed in the project to fulfil an aesthetic design as a ceiling and at the same time provide a functional safety platform for maintenance workers.Additionally, the project had prescribed the need for safe access walkways, stairs, and service platforms to ensure maximum safety for workers on the entire bridge.SolutionThe project partners chose PcP to provide the complete solution: ceiling, stairs, walkways, and service platforms.The different applications involved close collaboration between the partners throughout design, development, test and delivery. The range of applications was a thorough process of designing, drawing and technical advice. The entire solution involved PcP products from OPTIMO, CUBE and Guardrail.CUBE® as architectural ceiling1000 m2 CUBE® gratings decorate the ceiling below the bridge with a multifunctional purpose combining design and functionality. The unique design is simplistic and efficient and provides excellent light penetration at night.