"building frames"

Case study of the refurbishment of the Intelhorce textile industrial complex (1957-2004) to transform it into the new logistics centre of the company Mayoral Children's Fashion in Malaga. 

Application and problem solving using zinc cladding on the Adelaide Convension Centre

J&P explored a number of possibilities with the precast contractor, Border Concrete Products and the main contractor Expanded Structures, culminating in a proposal to utilise J&P’s TSS invisible connectors. The innovative solution involved the TSS units being rotated through 90°, to accommodate the bearer within the slender 125mm rib section (see image above). The additional challenge of the supporting downstand being radiused was easily accommodated due to the flexibility of the TSS units, and the detailed dimensional/setting-out information provided by J&P to the contractors ensured accurate positioning for the varying angles required.

J&P was involved early in discussions with several members of the project team, and using its BEAMCON product, provided a coordinated and value-engineered range of solutions to the multiple fixing requirements on the project. These included brackets that could take vertical shear loads of 72 kN, horizontal shear of 270 kN, tension of 495 kN and a moment of 25 kNm. BEAMCON was used to fix the innovative ETFE cladding “cushions” which give The SSE Hydro its distinctive appearance.

This case study features FloSet Compact and FloSet 4-Port ABV with FlowCon Green PICV and E-Just ABV removable inserts.

The Dream is a 20m precast concrete sculpture on the site of the old Sutton Manor Colliery near St. Helens in Lancashire. Created by world-renowned Spanish artist Jaume Plensa, it serves as a memorial to the miners who worked at the site. Because of the sculpture’s exposure to winds of up to 45m/s, all of the elements were connected to form a single monolithic structure. The design required a connection force of 200kN between adjacent elements, both horizontally and vertically. J&P was approached to deliver because of the company’s expertise in working with precast concrete.

Large laboratories, dubbed ‘super-labs’, use AV and acoustic technology to allow up to 120 students to be taught different lessons at the same time in the same space. There is also a range of flexible spaces that help bridge the gap between disciplines, allowing researchers to find better solutions by working together. The labs and research areas benefit from plenty of natural light and ventilation thanks to large expanses of glazing constructed with Schüco FWS 50 curtain walling.

Ashton Under Lyne - Town Centre Public Realm (2000m2)Project Description: Ashton Under Lyne’s town centre was transformed with £10.8m of levelling up funding. A transformational & bold project ensuring Ashton’s historic market square is future proofed and fit for modern market needs. New paving means the square is accessible and safe for all visitors and residents. Larsen Streetscape paving mortar system is the preferred option for laying paving. Product Showcase: Larsen Streetscape paving mortar system is a collection of high-performance mortars for the construction of pavements. The products are specifically formulated to exceed performance characteristics, as set out in BS 7533. Products used:            ·  FBC Eco Fine Bedding Concrete - Ideal for pavements constructed with natural stone, concrete & clay paving units. ·  PS Eco Priming Slurry - Applied to the underside of all paving units to create an exceptional bond to FBC Eco Fine Bedding Concrete. ·  FJM Eco Flowable Jointing Mortar - Filled the joints to complete the installation. Rapid setting with high early strength gain, FJM Eco can be opened to foot traffic in one hour.               ·  EM Epoxy Mortar - A three-part pack solvent-free epoxy resin mortar - perfectly suited for areas where exceptional strength and bond are required. For further information or technical data sheets on the Larsen Streetscape product range, please visit www.larsenbuildingproducts.com. 

Installing a comprehensive internal and external structural waterproofing solution to prevent the ingress of ground water.

Audley Cooper Retirement Village

Bank Street, High Wycombe

Adapt-Air units have been installed by one of the UK’s leading housebuilders on a new housing development in Wombwell, South Yorkshire. The Adapt-Air provided a ducting to airbrick solution, eliminating the mess and time associated with core drilling as well as the hassle of on-site kit assembly. The site manager was thrilled with the practicality the Adapt-Air units delivered, easing the typical hassle of installing ductwork. By eliminating the need for core drilling and external fitters, the Adapt-Air also delivers a cost-saving of approximately £250 per housing plot. With this particular development consisting of approximately 150 plots, the use of Adapt-Air has facilitated a cost saving of over £37,500 for the company. "Adapt-Air has removed a health and safety problem for me on-site with core drilling and you can’t put a price on that." - Site Manager

College Gardens, St Helier

Made-to-order timber windows and doors from the Kensington & Chelsea range by Lomax + Wood have been specified for a high specification new build Georgian-style villa in fashionable Lancaster Gardens, Wimbledon, London SW19.

With limited vertical wall space for windows, Denizen Works utilised Glazing Visions’ fixed Flushglaze rooflights to flood the living spaces with light in their recently built housing scheme, Haddo Yard.The project, on the site of a former bungalow, is located in Whitstable, Kent and takes its name from Oliver Haddo, a character in former resident Somerset Maugham’s novel, ‘The Magician’. Haddo Yard forms part of a series of projects initiated by developer Arrant Land, that seek to explore how a town with a distinct visual identity can be enhanced by adventurous but contextual contemporary design.Having been approached directly by developers Arrant Land, Denizen Works undertook an initial design review exercise resulting in an extensive overhaul of the scheme. Despite the detailed design, problems emerged, with the ground floor living spaces extending into a single story volume to the rear of the site creating deep plans and on the second floor, apartments occupied roof space so vertical walls for windows was limited.Denizen Works contacted Glazing Vision, who they had worked with previously, with the aim to utilise rooflights over these spaces which brought light in to the deepest parts of the plan and to create living spaces on the second floor which could be flooded with light, even with a lack of vertical wall space.“Glazing Vision always provide good technical support which makes specifying and detailing their products very easy”, explains Andrew Ingham, the architect working on the project.One of the most important factors for Denizen Works when they sourced the rooflights were the frameless appearance of the Glazing Vision Flushglaze rooflights. Three fixed rooflights were used, measuring 2000x1000mm, as means of providing natural daylight and helping to maintain the clean, contemporary and minimal detailing that had been employed throughout the project.The resultant scheme comprises of 6no. two bed flats and 1no. 1 bed flat spread over three floors, each enjoying dual aspect and south-facing living spaces overlooking the gardens. The ambition for Haddo Yard was to create a distinctive and contemporary expression of local identity. The finished building asserts a bold and confident presence within its context.Haddo Yard is the first completed building by Denizen Works and Arrant Land, helping to present a unique addition to Whitstable’s built environment. Andrew Ingham concludes “We’re very proud of Haddo Yard and we have heard first hand just how much the current residents enjoy the light, contemporary spaces we’ve designed.”

Smet Supported Partner, NRS 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.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 on.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.

Having purchased the lands from the Golf Club, Cosgrave Developments wanted to ensure the natural contours of the existing grounds were maintained when building the public amenity park – Honeypark – which is the centrepiece of their development.As a focal meeting point the area contained mature parklands with a man-made lake and childrens play area as the main attraction. With this area being lower in the development a safe, durable and visually pleasing design was needed, Mick Cosgrave chose AG’s Ground TerraPave® natural aggregate flags to meet the specification, with its durable finish and low slip resistance it met all the safety criteria for this major walkway.When laid it’s visually impressive surface draws you to the central focal point of the scheme. To improve safety for the visually impaired AG’s smooth bullnose kerbs setts were used to form the numerous step details complimenting the smooth crisp clean appearance of the paving and flags.The main green space areas also had sloping contours where soil retention was needed to aid structural integrity and drainage, AG’s Vertica Retaining Wall system was selected. The low rise walls meet the engineering specification whilst the choice of colour was in line with the design choice for the scheme. The unique split level design also provided a natural amphitheatre and seating area for the residents, the low level of the walling kept in mind the safety aspects for younger children in the area.In the main residential areas Cosgrave Developments choose AG’s River Stone Blackwater paving for the parking bay areas. Unique in its design due to its undulating face finish this new product has the key benefits of smooth paving, tight joints and an extra sparkle due to the addition of natural granite chippings. Technically its ideal for the durability and hard wearing required to take parked vehicular traffic over long periods of time

Soundsure 560 was laid over concrete blocks (1350 kg/m3 from Lynx Precast), installed as an acoustic resilient layer below insulation, underfloor heating pipework and 75mm sand / cement screed. Installed in first floor areas of all 8 houses. Soundsure 560 was overlaid with 30mm insulation, a waterproof membrane, and underfloor heating pipes clipped into place. A 75mm sand / cement screed was then laid above. Soundsure 560 was lapped up all perimeter edges, ensuring that the insulation and screed were isolated from the main structure, providing maximum acoustic performanceBenefits of Soundsure 560 • Cost-effective acoustic solution for use with all types of floor screeds. • Exceeds the performance standards required in the UK building regulations for sound insulation. • Ideal for use in New Build Houses, as well as Apartments and Hotels, where acoustic insulation is required. • Excellent acoustic performance from Soundsure 560 – gives 24 dB impact sound improvement when used below 75mm sand / cement screed. • Quick and easy to install without any need for perimeter edge strips. • Provides long-lasting durability and high levels of acoustic performance. • Can be used as an alternative to Robust Details. • Made from recycled rubber crumb.

The Post Building development completely remodels the former Royal Mail Sorting Office located on New Oxford Street in Central London into modern Grade A offices, with street level retail and restaurant space along with rooftop gardens, terraces, and leisure areas. The project received a prestigious RIBA London Award in 2022 and the main roof terrace is open to the public, providing panoramic views over the city. In order to gain planning approval, the development had to be repurposed in line with the ‘SuDS manual’ best practice guidance to minimise surface water run-off in the event of a storm and in order to meet the maximum discharge consent limits set by Thames Water.Basement SuDS storage is expensive and often impractical to achieve in city centre locations. ABG’s blueroof system was therefore chosen as an easy to install alternative to provide stormwater attenuation at roof level. The system is installed across three main roof areas and includes 14 restrictor chambers positioned above rainwater outlets to limit the outflow rate. The system is calculated to control stormwater in the event of a 1 in 100 year storm, based on the local Flood Studies Report (FSR) rainfall data, plus 30% allowance for climatic change.The roof design incorporates a variety of surface finishes, including a resin bound play area, biodiverse green roof areas and paved & decked terraced areas. The roof also includes solar PV arrays and planters supported on top of the blue roof.The ABG blueroof system drains like a normal roof during everyday rainfall events, but throughout the critical design storm periods restricts stormwater run-off, continuously releasing rainwater at a controlled rate until empty.The discharge rate is site specific and forms part of the scheme wide SuDS plan, and means that other downstream measures are not required. The scheme also included sedum green roofs to improve site biodiversity across two further areas.ABG provided project design calculations and all blue roof materials required for the different roof levels, plus our installation service.

Sort Trae is a new build Passivhaus set in a steeply sloping site in Thurgoland, Barnsley. The owner is a former architect and designed the scheme up to planning. HEM Architects were commissioned to turn the design intent into an ultra-low energy and comfortable home and to administer the contract on site. The house is a 2-bed home, with the lower storey set into the hill. There is an attached weaving studio where the owner works. The house takes advantage of the beautiful views to the south and is a bold, contemporary home clad in black timber and open jointed stone.The rooflights set on top of the studio are a key part of the roof, visible from the entrance to the site and the house. Their crisp design met the architects desire for an elegant and unfussy roofscape.FAKRO flat roof windows were chosen for their thermal performance and the performance of the integrated kerbs.Paul Testa, Director at HEM Architects told us, “We have always specified FAKRO on our projects where possible. They have always led the market in terms of thermal performance and there is excellent technical support”.The FAKRO windows used were: 2 x FAKRO DXF-DU6 02K flat roof window – 600 x 900mm unit size 1 x FAKRO DXF-DU6 11k flat roof window – 1200 x 2200mm unit size 1 x FAKRO DXF-DU8 04k flat roof window – 800 x 800mm unit size Paul added, “We enjoy working with FAKRO and find that the products are delivered to site very well packaged and are very easy to install. Working directly with the manufacturer rather than builders’ merchants also means the contractor has much better manufacturer support should they need it”.HEM Architects is a practice of 10 staff, based in Sheffield. They have a reputation for Passivhaus design and gaining planning on difficult sites.The practice is on a mission to help everyone live in beautiful, practical homes that have minimal impact on our planet. They specialise in creative, sustainable residential architecture. Taking inspiration from the mess and joy of everyday life, they design homes for living and that delight every day.

Dacatie's TFR Fire Rated Cavity Closers were used in this residential project by Willmott Dixon. The 133 homes come in a mix of 2, 3 and 4 bedroom houses, and 1 and 2 bedroom apartments. It is part of the Bristol Mayor’s commitment to build 2,000 new homes, including 800 affordable, in the city.

Built on a self-build development site at Graven Hill in Bicester, where every property is different, this house utilises a number of different design styles and is constructed from an ICF system called Durisol Blocks. The first floor is constructed using the Lewis Deck and includes sound separation, underfloor heating and wet-rooms. It is common for the 1st floor to see a liquid screed installed over the deck, however for this project the client just ordered a little additional of the concrete being poured down the walls to complete the floors.

Student Castle aims to create the ultimate university experience for students by providing high quality contemporary accommodation at locations across the UK. In Brighton, East Sussex, international design practice, Hassell, is responsible for designing one of the company’s latest schemes – an impressive, nine-storey mixed use building. With brick as the principal element, the studio worked closely with Vandersanden to achieve the detailing and precise finish required.Located in a prominent location on Lewes Road in the heart of Brighton’s student district, the building includes student accommodation, a new home for the Centre for Inclusive Music and a local community ‘Hub’ space. Although the scale of the building is substantially larger than the buildings previously on the site, its massing was carefully managed by creating a scheme with a stepped and staggered zigzag form. To support and strengthen the architectural composition, the materials were reduced to a simple palette. Vandersanden’s Anicius hand-formed facing brick wraps all sides of the building - a light coloured, slightly indented 10mm mortar joint enlivening the whole - its use and colouration tying the building into the local architectural context. The brick facades are broken and capped by a series of horizontal bands and copings formed from white precast GRC (glass reinforced concrete) sections, setting out the horizontal order and announcing breaks in the building’s geometry. The aesthetic is further enhanced by dark bronze coloured aluminium sections framing the windows. Notably, all window reveals are brick, including the cills; an important feature of the project.“The selection of the brick began with a brainstorming session where we looked at different ranges and options, but knew an engineered brick look wouldn’t be suitable,” says Tiago Arieira, project architect at Hassell. “We chose Vandersanden’s Anicius brick because it was dark, but also had a slight white softness. We liked the idea of a more natural and irregular material with its sand-coated, grained structure.” One of the biggest design challenges with the brickwork was creating the multiple corners that result from the zigzag and stepped detailing that helps break up the mass of the building and allows sea views from the terraces. “Many of the junctions are not at right angles, so conventional brick joints would have been impractical,” explains Arieira. “Vandersanden’s Sales Team were incredibly helpful from the beginning. We talked about the different angles and how we were looking to achieve neat edges. Through this consultation, we were able to identify that the bricks could be cut and the corner bricks formed off-site to achieve a precise finish that would also save time with site installation.” The desired outcome was achieved using Revit digital software to map every angle at every level and to quantify the number of bricks and the exact mitre that had to be formed for each junction. The distances between the windows and the heights of the brick courses were also carefully calculated to ensure a precise aesthetic. “On site, the solution worked well and, because everything to do with the brickwork was carefully pre-planned, there were no issues during construction,” says Arieira.“Although it was the natural look and feel of the Anicius brick that first impressed us, Vandersanden was really helpful throughout the process,” notes Tiago Arieira. “The process worked because of a strong collaboration from the early stages. Vandersanden understood their product and were able to give us the support we needed in achieving our design vision.”To find out more about the bricks used in this project or to see the wide range of high-quality bricks available from Vandersanden, click on the 'View more' link 

Building an outdoor garden and entertaining space with a fab kitchen area that’s the envy of all your friends and neighbours is something many of us only dream about. The new series of Love Your GardenIn the new series of Love Your Garden with Alan Titchmarsh, landscaping experts Cotswold Garden Renovation Services LTD built a beautiful stone columned kitchen with a porcelain slab countertop using Power Grab ‘n’ Bond to secure everything in position for a long-lasting finish, guaranteed to last for a lifetime. Harry & Jamie only use the best materialsHarry Barnes & Jamie Johnstone of Cotswold Garden Renovation are leading the great garden revolution. They’ve shown that with passion and skills anything is possible and provide landscaping expertise for ITV’s Love Your Garden alongside garden designers Alan Titchmarch, Francis Tophill, David Domoney, Katie Rushworth and Danny Clarke.They believe in always using the best quality tools, materials and trusted brands. Power Grab ‘n’ Bond is developed by leading British manufacturers CT1, the No1 sealant and adhesive in the UK. CT1 is always leading and providing the industry with the very latest technology. Now thanks to its unique ‘Tribrid®’ technology Power Grab ‘n’ Bond is a revolutionary product in the field of heavy-duty versatile bonding. Building a outdoor kitchen using Power Grab ‘n’ BondIn their latest project Harry and Jamie hand built a series of vertical stone columns that were then braced together with wide metal strips. Usually these would have to be fitted using mechanical fixings, requiring holes to be drilled through the stone and heavy bolts fitted with their thick heads protruding above the metal braces. As 20mm porcelain slabs were being fitted on top, these protruding bolts were going to be a major issue. Power Grab ‘n’ Bond provided the perfect solution as it’s the ultimate grab adhesive, eliminating the use of mechanical fixings completely and coupled with the rapid curing will, in most projects, save 50% labour time and cost.Using a heavy-duty caulking gun, Harry and Jamie applied Power Grab ‘n’ Bond straight from the cartridge, onto the metal braces and after 4-5minutes fixed directly them into place. Why use Power Grab ‘n’ Bond?With phenomenal initial grab, this fast curing, non-shrinking and almost odourless adhesive secured the braces firmly with immediate effect.Three times stronger than regular hybrid polymers, the ‘Tribrid®’ technology in Power Grab n Bond ensures longer colour retention, incredible durability and flexibility, even when applied outdoors.Yet Power Grab ‘n’ Bond will remain flexible and resist vibrations caused by cooking equipment, barbecuing and constant use. It won’t dry out, nor become brittle and works perfectly in temperatures ranging from 90°C right down to the mind numbing cold -40°C. Power Grab ‘n’ Bond will successfully stick to any material in most applications Not only does it successfully stick all metals (including alloys), but Power Grab also ‘n’ Bond has a capacity to adhere to a wide range of materials such as stone, granite, ytong, marble, concrete, wood, MDF, fiberglass, glass, polystyrene, mirrors and most plastics (except PP, PE and PTFE). Furthermore, its ability to bond combined materials such as wood to concrete or stainless steel to stone is incredible. Power Grab ‘n’ Bond removes the need for mechanical fixings!Originally created for facades and heavy stonework such as the installation of quoins, the versatility, strength and reliability of Power Grab ‘n’ Bond means it now used more widely by professional shop and kitchen fitters as well as specialist trades, landscapers and bathroom installers. It is tested by a UKAS Accredited lab to BS EN 12003 (Determination of shear adhesion strength of reaction resin adhesives) and BS EN1308 (Determination of slip resistance).After fitting the braces Harry and Jamie applied Power Grab ‘n’ Bond to the top side of the metal strips and laid 900x900x20mm thick heavy duty porcelain slabs in place to form the countertop of the external kitchen. How strong is Power Grab ‘n’ Bond?Power Grab ‘n’ Bond is a single part solvent free solution, with a far greater density, allowing phenomenal initial grab, even on vertical installations, and offers a final tensile strength of 22kg per cm2 when fully cured. These metal braces and porcelain slabs aren’t going anywhere soon and will provide a lifetime of outdoor dining for the homeowners. Where can I get Power Grab ‘n’ Bond?Grab also ‘n’ Bond is made in Britain with British technology and British design. Its available now in all good builders merchants nationwide and online from www.ct1.com

Award winning architect uses Lomax + Wood traditional box sash windows for this superb new build property in Oxfordshire. A property of this statue requires timber windows to match. A key feature for the architect was that Lomax + Wood provided a high performance product sympathetic to the buildings traditional Georgian features.Lomax + Wood designed, supplied and installed custom box sash windows that helped create the historic Georgian look of this amazing new development.

This extensive 9,000m2 new build project, covering 4 key operating theatres, two treatment rooms, assessment units, a discharge ward and an admission department benefitted from a full ARDEX flooring system.

BackgroundPure Gym has recently opened a brand-new facility in Canterbury. The gym hosts over 220 pieces of state-of-the-art equipment, including cardio apparatus, treadmills, rowers and spin bikes. Customers also get to benefit from a free weights zone and a fixed weights area, as well as access to a multitude of fitness classes.The ChallengeSituated on the first floor of a mixed-use development, a jack-up floor was specified to prevent vibrations from transferring into the building structure. However, to ensure the development was fit for purpose, Pure Gym believed additional treatment was needed to further enhance the performance of the floor and reduce unwanted noise.As such, Pure Gym commissioned an acoustic consultant to produce a report outlining the exact performance criteria that would need to be met across different areas of the gym. The report recommended individual performance standards for the free weights zone and the rest of the studio. One of the main challenges was to find a solution that would meet the specification but also be delivered for installation within a strict two-week period.In addition to the prompt supply time, the solution also needed to match the Pure Gym aesthetic guidelines and corporate colours. Pure Gym approached CMS Danskin Acoustics detailing the project specification, seeking advice on what solutions were available to meet the criteria.The SolutionCMS Danskin Acoustics used the consultant’s report to identify system build ups that would best achieve the specified performance detail. Two separate build-ups proposed by CMS Danskin Acoustics were subsequently approved for use. For the free weights area, a build-up of two layers of Regufoam® in grades 220 and 270, plus a 43mm everroll® Weightlayer (everroll multitile 43mm) was supplied. For the remainder of the studio, two layers of 15mm Regupol® Vibration 480 was supplied, complimented by a final floor finish of 10mm everroll®.The specified finish of black and grey EPDM was also matched by CMS Danskin Acoustics and all materials were produced for installation within the strict two-week time frame.The ResultCMS Danskin Acoustics was able to quickly identify solutions with the required technical capabilities from across the breadth of its product portfolio. The volume of material needed was in stock, allowing a quick turnaround for Pure Gym to meet the specified project completion date.Pure Gym opened to the public on the proposed launch date and is now fully operational. The treatments provided by CMS Danskin Acoustics are providing a robust solution to reducing unwanted noise, protecting the structure of the gym floor and preventing vibrations travelling into the structure of the building.CMS Danskin Acoustics is now one of Pure Gym’s preferred suppliers and has since worked on projects such as the new build of a two-storey facility in Croydon, and the refurbishment of the Winwick Quay site in Warrington.“The service CMS Danskin Acoustics provides is of an extremely high standard. Their expert advice, quality of the product and efficiency in getting the materials to site, were instrumental in allowing us to complete the project on time. The superb service has instilled a confidence in us to develop our relationship with CMS Danskin Acoustics as a trusted supplier,” commented John Graham, Pure Gym Property Development Director.

Achieving a Building Regulations compliant level of soundproofing in residential conversion projects demands the use of superior quality soundproofing materials and systems, which are deployed in the right way. It is an approach that a recent development in the south Manchester suburb of Levenshulme perfectly encapsulates, with outstanding results for the developer and future residents.Hush Acoustics was tasked to provide a solution for a conversion project at 31 Albert Road, Levenshulme by Meridian Construction & Refurbishments. It was converting the five-bedroom Victorian dwelling into two residential flats, which meant the separating floors had to be constructed in a way that would meet the acoustic standards set out in Approved Document E of the Building Regulations for England and Wales.Under Approved Document E, ‘material change of use’ projects like this must incorporate soundproofing in the floors between individual dwellings to reduce the risk of nuisance sound transmission. Evidence that the floor construction complies with the standards is normally provided to building control through post-installation acoustic testing, which on this project was undertaken by C80 Solutions.Hush Acoustics was invited to attend the site by Meridian when the building was at its early rip out stage. This provided an opportunity to get a clear understanding of the situation and discuss the options for the separating floors to ensure they would meet the requirements of Approved Document E.The floor structure was a traditional timber floor with floorboards. There was only a very limited specification in the design, so Hush was able to help by providing specialist technical consultation to develop the most cost effective and easy to install solution for the Meridian site team.Following the site visit and inspection of the building, Hush Acoustics’ soundproofing specialists developed an acoustic product specification for the separating floors that would not only meet the minimum standards of the Building Regulations, but exceed them with ease.Hush-Panel 17, a thin MDF overlay board which incorporates a 10mm Hush-Felt resilient layer, was installed over the structural deck. This was glued using Hush-Bond Panel Adhesive and isolated at the perimeters using Hush-Seal 20.The structural deck consisted of the original floorboards that had been overboarded with a thin plywood. This provided a solid flat surface to install the acoustic flooring. The existing ceiling was left in place where possible to avoid the need for ripping out where it was not required, which allowed for a new acoustic ceiling to be installed. This consisted of two layers of 15mm Fireline plasterboard on a suspended frame with Hush-Slab 100 sound absorber slabs placed within the ceiling void.As part of the service, Hush Acoustics arranged for the acoustic testing to be carried out by testing partner C80 Solutions. They recorded the following results:Airborne – 53 dB DnTw+Ctr and 52 dB DnTw+Ctr (the higher, the better)Impact – 48 dB LnTw and 43 dB LnTw (the lower, the better)These are very good acoustic figures for a separating floor in a residential conversion project of this kind, demonstrating what can be achieved with a combination of high quality soundproofing materials are combined and installation correctly.Ultimately, this outstanding acoustic performance for the separating floors will help to ensure a high level of satisfaction for the future residents of these modern apartments.

Premier Security & Fire Consultants has joined forces with leading forensic security company DNA-Detect to create a market-first, integrated high-security door system armed with a Forensic DNA traceable, marking fluid.Our design team has worked with DNA-Detect to incorporate an automatic spraying system into our LPS1175 SR2 (B3), SR3 (C5) and SR4 (D10) and our upcoming SR5 (E10) security door designs tested and passed by the BRE (Building Research Establishment), the UK’s No.1 testing house.If attacked, the DNA based security system will automatically dispense a covert spray concealed within the door frame. The perpetrator will be forensically marked linking them to a crime scene providing irrefutable evidence to prosecuting authorities.Each DNA-Detect Forensic Perpetrator Marking system contains a unique, registered Bio-synthetic DNA Code. The UV Marker in DNA-Detect’s products is Orange, to avoid any confusion with other products which may offer different colour UV MarkersOnce in the police custody suite, the police will check a suspect for the UV marker and will then proceed through the police process to take swabs from the marked area for submission to DNA-Detect’s forensic Labs for DNA extraction using a process known as Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)If the sequenced code recovered from the perpetrator’s skin and clothing matches the code from the registered door device, which can be securely verified at the ISR (International Security Register) then this will provide prosecutors with irrefutable evidence pinpointing the perpetrator to the crime scene.Premier Security & Fire Managing Director Neil Johns welcomed the collaboration with DNA-Detect. “Breaking new ground with unique designs and ideas is very much in Premier’s own DNA. The combination of Premier’s certificated door systems and the DNA-Detect trace system certainly brings an exciting, new element to the security market.”Those words were echoed by Chris Taylor – Chief Technical Officer at DNADetect. He said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Premier in this important industry-first initiative. Integrating Forensic DNA Spray Technology within Premier high-grade security doors will provide the ultimate deterrent to violent attacks within both private and business premises. This will ensure our client’s safety, protection and business continuity.”Premier Security & Fire Consultants is the UK’s leading supplier of Secured by Design LPS1175 door systems with more than 2000 designs and options including SR2; SR3; SR4, fire-resistant and thermally brokenTechnical Overview:An integrated compact modular DNA based Forensic Security System can be completely concealed within, for example, a door frame or above any entry point.The unique DNA and UV mark will forensically link an offender to a crime scene providing irrefutable evidence to prosecuting authoritiesWhen installed above or within an entry point or a door, the system will activate when the door is attacked. The perpetrator will be Forensically marked with a DNA based Forensic Marker and Orange UV fluorophore, dispensed as a covert spray from within the door frame or over the entry point.The unique DNA code within each door frame installation is backed up and registered on an LPS1224a secure database managed by the International Security Register (ISR)The Forensic DNA component within DNADetect’s system is widely tested and proven in court as a highly effective deterrent to criminal activity.​Unique DNA markers provide irrefutable evidence linking an offender to a crime sceneEach DNADetect Forensic Perpetrator Marking system contains a unique Bio-synthetic DNA Code which is registered to the trained security professional.When called to the scene of an incident where a DNADetect product or system has been activated, the police may use their standard-issue 365nM UV torch to look for a UV Marker on the perpetrator.The UV Marker in DNADetect’s products is Orange, to avoid any confusion with other products which may offer different colour UV MarkersOnce in the police custody suite, the police will then check the perpetrator again for the UV marker and will then proceed through the police process to take swabs from the marked area for submission to DNADetect’s forensic Labs for DNA extraction using a process known as Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)If the sequenced code recovered from the perpetrator’s skin and clothing matches the code from the registered canister (which can be securely verified at the ISR (International Security Register) then this will provide the Police and Prosecuting Authorities (CPS) with irrefutable proof that the perpetrator was at the crime sceneKey Features of DNA Detect’s DNA Forensic Marking Systems:Forensically Robust – DNA Markers have been proven in court to irrefutably link the suspect offender to the offenceIntrinsically Safe – All materials used within DNADetect Jet are safe having undergone extensive Toxicology testingEnd to End Secure – Every DNADetect Jet Device is registered to a trained security professional on an LPS 1224 Secure Database.Accredited Training Programme – DNADetect can only be used by Security Personnel that have undergone an accredited training programme delivered through DNADetect’s ‘Trusted Trainer’ network. This negates misuse ensuring that if and when deployed, the authorities can have confidence that the DNADetect was deployed as a last resort and inline with legal guidelines (within Common Law and Criminal Law – both of which are covered in the training programme)For further information about DNADetect, please contact:Chris Taylor – 07824099907Clive Lloyd – 07730370381Website: dna-detect.com 

Ten Traffic Street is a 522-bed student accommodation serving luxury living located on a prominent site within Nottingham City Centre. The project was delivered by Jensco and offers excellent amenities such as a cinema, games room, study spaces, onsite coffee shop, indoor and outdoor Gyms and multiple outdoor communal spaces including a roof terrace. Artform Urban worked closely with the Landscape architects, Ares Landscape to provide a substantial package of premium external furniture to ensure the high-end finish extends to the outdoor spaces. The complex is spread across 2 buildings with courtyards and one roof terrace overlooking the city. In total, there are 4 external spaces - each has its own identifiable aesthetic which is driven by the building fascias and window frame colouring which is then reflected in the outdoor furniture.The roof terrace is surrounded by a large Inspira Modular Planting System installation powder-coated in a unique Khaki Grey - bringing colour and natural benefits to the space. The planters house plants and small trees that provide dappled shade to ensure residents can enjoy the terrace on hotter days. Tables, benches, and a Box Litter Bin all in a coordinated colour palette, provide social seating and dining spaces and vibrant plastic Chill Lounger’s and Hop Op 500’s offer a more casual seating option for residents.The ground floor courtyards feature a continuation of benches and Box litter bins - with all steelwork powder coated in a specific colour for each space. An external gym has been provided in the larger courtyard and features two Endurance Wellness Stone installations. These unique sculptural pebbles include stainless steel fixtures to accommodate a variety of exercises. This is the first installation in the UK of these products that are part of a wider range of premium external gym equipment named MyEquilibria. This unique fitness range aims to redefine the workout experience by combining art, high-end design and community. As final additions to the spaces Artform Urban provided an extensive bike parking package as well as Fuente Drinking Fountain’s to encourage students to cycle and reduce plastic waste. 

The Highland Council had used Junckers flooring for multiple projects previously and had come to rely on Junckers’ sports flooring systems. The Council’s brief for a new school, Merkinch Primary School and Family Centre in Inverness, included a high-performance sprung floor to BS EN 14904 level A4 which would perform well and continue to do so for many years to come. The ability to restore the floor multiple times to as-new condition without high maintenance costs was also a factor. Sustainability was high on the agenda for the entire project, the building was designed and built to be thermally efficient to reduce operational costs and offer an optimal learning environment. Significant focus was placed on reducing the embodied carbon of the project’s whole life carbon. Designed and built by Robertson Construction, the new school was realised using more sustainable methods of construction, ensuring optimal thermal performance and using sustainable materials, thus reducing operational costs for the school. Along with a glulam cross-laminated timber frame and shell, Junckers flooring with its A+ BRE Green Guide rating, contributed to the scheme. The new school includes a four-court multi-purpose hall fitted with 670m2 Junckers SylvaSport Beech flooring installed over UnoBAT 45 subfloor system by Junckers Approved Contractor Courtcraft. The floor is area elastic and fully complies with EN 14904 class A4, exceeding the specification requirements set by Sport England/Sport Scotland and the ESFA. Junckers solid maple flooring was also installed on tiered seating as well as a staircase in the open-plan common area. Flooring for education projects not only has to fulfil safety and performance standards, it now also has to has to adhere to strict environmental standards, including a proven 60+ years lifespan, recyclability and independently verified sourcing, manufacturing and transportation processes. Specifying a Junckers floor, be it for a school sports hall or elsewhere in a school building, fulfils the requirements set for funding purposes, confirmed by a list of independently verified accreditations, including EPDs, FSC®, PEFC and the Danish Indoor Climate Label. Junckers floors have a BREEAM rating of A+. 

Cycle storage for new industrial units and office spaceAs part of a new development near Bristol, which included 4 new industrial units set for various uses, IAE Shelter Division supplied a series of Circonomy Cycle Shelters to provide dry and secure cycle storage, with the aim of encouraging more cycle use on the daily commute.The industrial units varied in size and included manufacturing, warehousing, and office space.As the units varied in size, each unit required a different number of cycle spaces. This is both for practical purposes, and to ensure the development meets BREEAM guidelines, which require a certain amount of dry, secure cycle storage spaces, depending on the number of people occupying the building, and the size of the building.Extendable Modular DesignThe Circonomy Cycle Shelters modular design meant it was ideal to meet these requirements. An individual Circonomy Cycle shelter fits 5 cycle hoops and is suitable to securely store 10 bicycles. Extensions can be added to the end of the shelter to increase capacity as needed. Individual shelter units, cycle hoops and extensions are all available from stock at IAE Shelters.The modular design meant the same style of shelter could be used across all the different sized units on the development to provide a consistent look across the site.Low Impact StylingBREEAM guidelines also state that the cycle storage has to be in a prominent, easy to access location to encourage cycle use, and not hidden around the back of the unit to hide it from site.The low impact styling of the Cicrconomy Cycle Shelter provides an unobtrusive look and means the shelter can be easily dropped into a site layout without concerns about it affecting the overall look of the project.To finish the design, the galvanised frames were powder coated anthracite grey to give a contemporary look.Specifying IAE SheltersThe Circonomy Cycle Shelter is IAE's most popular shelter, with hundreds installed around the country. To add the shelter to your project check out the featured products section below, or contact IAE Shelters directly.

The Schuster Annex on the University of Manchester's main campus when built, was intended to become a catalyst for excellence in STEM teaching, and was linked to the circular spaces within the existing buildings. Designed by Hawkins Brown, constructed by sector specialist Wilmott Dixon and fabricated by Dortech, the Science Annex formed part of the universities master plan. James Sutherland, Managing Director of Dortech, commented: “We were awarded the contract for the Schuster Annex by Willmott Dixon, following a competitive tender process; with our package including a number of striking design features.“These included 1,000m2 Technal MX Thermally Broken Curtain Wall with 200mm extending face caps as well as the FY65  ‘punched-hole’ windows in RAL 7043 Traffic Grey, plus some 1,500 linear metres of aluminium flashings. The glazing units feature the use of SGG COOL-LITE® SKN 14 glass with digitally printed artwork.”While the 8mm COOL-LITE® outer leaf provides solar control, the thermal performance of the IG units also benefits from an argon filled 18mm cavity and a 10.8mm thick inner leaf of coated laminated glass. The glazing specification, along with the design of thermally broken framing system also deliver a sound reduction of 40dB or more without special enhancement. Referring to the success of the curtain walling and fenestration solution from Dortech and Technal, Willmott Dixon’s Project Manager, James Goodwin, said: “This was a challenging project, not least because of the building’s proximity to a main road and the MRI (Manchester Royal Infirmary) with ambulances and other emergency services going past all the time. In terms of the acoustics, the transfer of noise, it has performed wonderfully well. Also, the Technal systems meet all of the thermal insulation requirements whilst, aesthetically it looks fantastic. Everyone is pleased with the completed project.”Completed in 2018 at a cost of approximately £11m, The Schuster Annex provides 2,500m² of space across it's four floors with what has been named the "Ideas Mill" and break out spaces at ground level. 

Troldtekt’s acoustic wood wool panels have helped interior design company Ambiente to win Nohrcon’s annual Danish ‘Office Building of the Year Award’ with its own office in Skanderborg, Denmark.  Created in collaboration with architect Ardess, the new 11,500sqm headquarters for this well-known interior design and exhibition stand company has unique features set within a raw and rustic environment and behind a minimalistic black steel façade. The centrepiece of the office is a 1,000sqm open external atrium which is overlooked by every department to develop a sense of bonding and equality between the tradespeople in production to the designers and sales team at their desks.  “The goal was to create something unique where high ceilings and spaciousness within a raw concrete frame would be a source of inspiration for both employees and clients,” says Ambiente owner and creative director Michael Skjodt. Consequently, the decor and spaces are designed to release creative ideas and build them up together with the customer.  The result is raw concrete floors and walls with 6.5m high ceilings contrasting against 18 staggered White City cubes, as they are called. These bright white rooms are used to stimulate creativity from meetings, exhibitions, showrooms and offices.  Black painted Troldtekt acoustic ceiling panels which have a natural rugged and uncomplicated appearance are used throughout the open areas and, when combined with long and heavy curtains, give the space an intimate and quiet atmosphere. These are complemented by white painted acoustic panels lining the ceilings and overhangs of the Cubes to maximise their brightness.  Specified throughout the UK and Europe, the benefits of 100% Troldtekt natural wood wool panels include high sound absorption, high durability, natural breathability, low cost life cycle performance and sustainability. Available in various sizes and in four grades from extreme fine to coarse, the panels can be left untreated or painted in virtually any RAL colour.Samples, case studies and technical information are easily sourced from tel 01978 664255 or from www.troldtekt.co.uk. More information on Troldtekt’s Sustainability and environmental policies can also be found on www.troldtekt.com/Environment-and-CSR

The Northern School of Art’s new Middlesborough campus is a development of regional importance, a major focal point for innovation and creativity in the Tees Valley.Located on a town centre site, the £14.5m iconic scheme comprises over 5,000m2 set over three floors, providing a range of studios for fine art, textiles, fashion, digital media, photography and 3D product design. Its concrete structure with exposed thermal mass, moderates the internal temperatures.Seven Architecture were responsible for the concept and master plan at the new school. Seven Director Simon Parker said, “To ensure a distinct and striking design for this gateway scheme we have introduced glazed terracotta panels to envelope the building which reference the long tradition of ceramics courses provided by the School. They also allow for glimpses into the building via long vertical windows which provide great levels of daylight within the art studios.“Once inside, internal finishes will provide the perfect backdrop for creativity; an exposed concrete frame and polished concrete flooring, coupled with splashes of colour throughout, will create a simple and robust yet flexible space for the students. The design strategy has been carefully established through extensive user consultation and the collaborative nature of this design has created a true flagship building.” Design, build and installation working hand-in-handBAM Construction were design lead and main contractor for the Project. Bill Mordue Interiors carried out the installation of the acoustic systems at the school. Jon Day of the firm, “We were very pleased to be involved with this prestigeous and innovative development. The work progressed smoothly with support from the Rockfon team as and when required. It offered Rockfon the opportunity to demonstrate how versatile their ranges are and how successfully they could control sound within this busy multifaceted setting.”In addition to the various studios and offices housed within the building, Rockfon acoustic systems really earn their place in the workshops, canteen, library, lecture rooms, busy thoroughfares and entrance hall where the pressures of controlling and containing sound in each space offer their own unique challenges. Challenges Rockfon is happy to meet, as independent research shows stress levels are reduced by 27% and focus is increased by 48% by improved acoustics.Performance, versatilty and beautyRockfon’s Jim Lundy, “Across all three floors throughout the school a mixture of Rockfon Universal Baffles, Rockfon® System Eclipse Islands™ and Chicago Metallic™ Infinity® Islands were installed in a variety of larger rectangular formats, sometimes alongside slimmer shapes, to work with the services already installed around and above them. In some instance, lighting and air conditioning are fixed within the panels, demonstrating their versatility. Rockfon Blanka® Activity B wall panels were also used within certain spaces to further control sound and help create the perfect environment for students to study, create, collaborate and socialise productively.”Ideal for thermal mass areas or where easy access to services is required, Rockfon® Universal™ Baffles offer an elegant and innovative acoustic solution. They have a smooth, easy clean fleece surface encased with corrosion resistant powder coated steel in two formats – two end-capped or four fully framed edge, and feature a multi-functional clip assembly which enables several installation and suspension possibilities. Delivering up to 77% light reflectance and diffusion, they are available in white or a selection of colours.The benefits of acoustic systems – seen and unseenThe high light reflectance offered across all our systems optimises natural light, aiding wellbeing and helping provide the best working conditions whilst minimising energy usage and costs. Vitally they all also demonstrate superior reaction to fire due in large part to the inert volcanic rock (stone wool) which forms their core. This stone wool also means Rockfon systems offer no sustenance to organisms which can lead to the growth of bacteria seen in some other ceiling systems.Rockfon Eclipse can be used as ceiling islands and as wall panels. Eclipse can be specified in a variety of shaped formats with a clean minimalistic A-edge and almost unlimited custom colour matching. Quick and easy to install, ceiling islands can be suspended by elegant wires, rods or fixed directly to the soffit.Seven Architecture Associate Architect Dean Murphy, “We felt Rockfon had a clean robust minimalistic design approach for both the suspended baffles & islands which clearly complemented the simplicity of our building design. Rockfon product ranges worked seamlessly alongside our design ideals for this building and worked well with our budget restraints.”The Rockfon Blanka range is available with semi-concealed and visible grid options for use as a suspended ceiling or as wall panels, offering a wide choice of alternatives for installation and usage. All embody Class A sound absorption (aw 1.00), 87% light reflection and >99% light diffusion and room to room sound Insulation 26dB-46dB. Blanka’s easy clean, anti-static surface prolongs product life and is non-directional, speeding up installation, saving time and money.Dr Martin Raby, The Northern School of Art’s Principal, “The increased visibility and accessibility of the School will generate benefits for the region and town, attracting more students and footfall. In turn, this will bring significant economic benefit for the area and help to redefine the image of the Tees Valley for inward investors, students, and visitors.”

Four residential blocks on Albert Road, North London, have recently undergone renovation, including removal of wooden screen shutters across the frontage of each apartment. The sliding shutters create an attractive appearance as well as performing shade from direct sunlight, but over recent years the wood has warped and deteriorated. Warping meant that the screens no longer travelled smoothly across the windows, and deterioration was causing the louvres to loosen with the danger that they might fall on people walking below. A refurbishment would also provide the opportunity to refit with materials conforming to current fire safety regulations. Considering the refurbishment, the developers were keen to retain the screens and felt that the appearance of wood was appealing, giving the apartments something of a continental appeal, albeit in north London. The blocks were developed and are managed by L&Q, a housing association that aims to deliver high quality affordable homes, and in their own words ‘better places to live’. The screens could easily be replaced using aluminium for the frame aerofoil blades and the look of wood could just as easily be delivered by using a shade from our Wood Finish (PWF™) range. PWF30, a dark shade, was closest to the original wood. In total Powdertech pre-treated and coated 9500 linear metres of extruded aluminium, each individual foil being 1.22m in length. Using aluminium brings the obvious benefits of strength combined with lightweight. The screens will not warp and need only minimal maintenance. Our Wood Finish conforms to the required reaction to fire specification for residential buildings of this type, A2-s1, d0, and the metal itself is non-combustible thus solving a number of issues in one, Wood Finish on aluminium is a winning combination.