"lights"

Located in the Welsh countryside of Rhos-Fawr, a family were building their own Victorian style farmhouse and wanted sash windows to complete the traditional look. The homeowners wanted windows that were over two-metres tall, with a genuine traditional appearance and - because of the exposed location - effective weatherproofing. White woodgrained Ultimate Rose windows were ideal for this project. This conservation-grade timberalternative option allowed for the large sizes (1500 x 2350mm) that this home required, while remaining indistinguishable from timber originals. In addition, our Ultimate Rose can be fully Secure by Design accredited providing full peace of mind. To keep with the Victorian style, a single astragal bar configuration was chosen along with a deep bottom rail. Ultimate Rose also includes a 35mm slim and seamless midrail as standard, providing fully authentic sightlines and allowing the maximum amount of natural light into the home. As a result, the home benefits from impressively large sash windows that beautifully match the traditional style of the building, but in a maintenance-free package that includes the thermal and security performance that comes with modern materials and manufacturing techniques. 

Having trouble viewing this email? Click here to view onlinePRESS RELEASE:Towering triumph for Gerflor’s Taraflex® at Beaconsfield High SchoolBeaconsfield High School, in Buckinghamshire have been delivering a highly successful academic culture for more than over 50 years. Creativity and physical activity are just some of the additional life skills and behaviours that are taught to pupils. When the school wanted to refurbish their main sports hall, the natural choice was to turn to international flooring specialist Gerflor to supply 635m2 of their world class Taraflex® Performance vinyl sports flooring, in Light Blue, to successfully complete the project.Taraflex® Performance is a synthetic indoor sports flooring that can be specified for a wide range of sports applications, in a variety of sectors and is available in an extensive choice of vibrant designs, making it the ideal choice for a host of locations. With a complete range of outstanding sports surfaces that can meet specification requirements for compliance with P1/P2/P3 shock absorption Taraflex® sports floorings are perfect for delivering optimal safety and protection for users, regardless of their age and sporting ability.

Built on a largely derelict gap site, The Works is a development of 34 two-bedroomed apartments in the popular Yorkhill / Finnieston area of Glasgow, offering panoramic views over the city and the River Clyde. To accommodate the site’s slope, the development comprises a four-storey north side and a six-story south side.The development had to overcome a number of issues, including planning issues around daylighting and massing, and the challenge of building immediately adjacent to the Yorkhill railway tunnel.PROJECT INFOThe Works provides residents with off-street parking and use of a large communal garden, with ground floor properties having private rear gardens. Design emphasis is on open-plan layouts and generous room sizes. To take advantage of the views, the apartments feature south-facing and Juliet-style balconies.Ecostock Belgravia Gault Blend was selected to meet the requirements of both the client and planning for a high quality, light buff brick with grey tones that would match the surrounding buff sandstone tenements. The sustainability credentials and technical performance of Ecostock, with its low water absorption suiting the wet weather typical of the west of Scotland’s, also contributed to the selection decision.

The recent refurbishment of 4 Chiswell Street by Ben Adams Architects includes Armourcoat’s Istria polished plaster wall finish. Situated close to the historic Bunhill cricket ground in Islington, this once tired office building has been re-imagined as a modern and open workspace.Entering through an impressive new façade and front entrance, the architect’s design includes a double height reception space bathed in natural light. A sculpturally fluted wall finished in Istria polished plaster and custom terrazzo floor continue a circular motif repeated throughout the design. With exposed services and stylish use of concrete colours, the structure has been transformed into a contemporary and relevant commercial building with a distinctive urban feel.Named after the characteristic building stone of Venice, the Istria polished plaster finish is made from a combination of slaked lime, recycled marble powder and special additives. The Istria finish is full of ingrained surface movement and creates a matt or honed stone appearance. Tonal variation and surface movement within the finish complements other natural materials including wood, stone and fabric.

Shiluvit’ by Oranit270m2 of Shuluvit panels in 7-501 format and American Red Oak were installed to the ceilings of various classrooms and lecture spaces at the Edward Boyle library at Leeds University.
Shiluvit panels were chosen in part for their ability to easily incorporate lighting and ventilation into the ceiling whilst also giving ease of access with the tip-and-tilt demountable design. The ceilings were installed as part of the £15m redesign of the historic Grade II listed library building which began in 2015 and was finished for the start of the January term of 2017. The regeneration project was designed to improve the student experience of the space, an additional 1,000 study spaces were added as well as a dedicated post-graduate hub in addition to the lecture and seminar rooms.We are also very pleased to share that the library regeneration project was the winner of a Leeds Architecture Award in the Conserved Building category. At LSA we believe in longevity of design and installation and are proud to offer all of our products with industry leading warranty periods and extended lifespans. We are happy to know that students at Leeds University will be able to enjoy our ceilings for many years to come.

Park House surgery in Cannock is an NHS facility serving the local community. Offering a wide range of health services, it is a busy centre with constant pressure on room space.Working with Horsley Huber Architects and contractors, Three Sixty Commercial Interiors, Style was specified to install two moveable walls to enable the surgery to divide its office space into separate rooms, as and when required.The Dorma Hüppe Variflex moveable walls, which are light and smooth to operate, allow staff to quickly reconfigure the office space, depending on the number of people involved and activities taking place.Delivering an impressive 55dB acoustic barrier, staff can work, provide client consultations, host meetings, or run training sessions either side of the walls, completely undisturbed.At Park House surgery an oak finish was added to the panels, however the individual surface finishes are almost unlimited - from genuine wood veneers to decor surfaces.Style is the exclusive UK partner to Dorma Hüppe, Skyfold and SWG and offers an extensive range of moveable, folding and partitioning walls with manual, semi-automatic or fully automatic operation suitable for all requirements and budgets.

Lindner realised the tenant fit-out for Zürich Versicherungs-Gesellschaft AG with partition wall, door and room-in-room systems: the full panel partition system Lindner Logic Timber – cladded with perforated real wood silver fir veneer – ensures good acoustics.It is complemented by Lindner Life Stereo 125 glass partitions framed by powder-coated aluminium profiles in black and by profiles veneered with real wood – also in silver fir. The glass partition wall system is Cradle to Cradle® Silver certified and thus takes account of the sustainability concept. Wooden door elements veneered with silver fir and supplemented by wooden block frames provide access to the different areas and round off the clear visual impression.A total of 18 identical Lindner Cubes offer additional space for meetings or concentrated work – including heated/chilled ceilings, optimal lighting and acoustics as well as copying areas at the front of the outer wall. Completed WorksPartitionsPartition Systems GlassLindner Life Stereo 125Partition Systems Full PanelLindner Logic 100 TimberRoom-in-RoomLindner Cube duo

The ChallengeMade up largely of two 19th-Century coal warehouses, the site needed to be drastically re-thought to evolve into a new retail complex comprising more than 50 shops and restaurants.With high levels of footfall anticipated, the safety of individuals would need to be a primary factor in its redesign.As well as this, creating light-filled spaces to attract shoppers from across London would be integral to the project’s long-term success.As a result, specifying materials capable of balancing safety requirements alongside aesthetics and practicality was critical.The SolutionSupplying in excess of 150 square metres of Pyroguard Protect toughened fire-rated glass to various classifications – including E60, EW120, and EI60 – to the project, Pyroguard was able to fulfill the architect’s safety requirements, while delicately balancing the need for aesthetic excellence to contribute to the repurposing of these historic buildings.Working closely with Propak Architectural Glazing who were enlisted to design, manufacture and install a large range of steel glazing systems for the project, Pyroguard created a bespoke thickness of 31 mm, instead of the traditional 25 mm for the EI60 requirement, to perfectly complement the systems.

IntroductionSurespan designed and manufactured the highest hatch in the world, a 600mm diameter submarine access hatch located 816 meters up on the Burj Khalifa. The Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building, soaring 828 meters above Dubai. The design for the 162-story tower combines local cultural influences with cutting-edge technology to achieve high performance in an extreme desert climate.Products suppliedWe supplied;Surespan was selected for its engineering expertise, innovative designs, and unique skills.The team designed and manufactured a 600mm diameter, polish grade 316 stainless steel simulated submarine access hatch with handwheels. The hatch is located at 816 meters and is used for maintenance access to the aircraft warning lights.The projectAs part of the 1.5-billion-dollar mega Downtown Dubai project, the government of Dubai decided to build the world’s tallest building. This project redefines what is possible in the design and engineering of supertall buildings.  Architect firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill design inspiration for the tower was taken from the shape of a regional desert flower the Hymenocallis, also known as the desert lily and the patterning systems embodied in Islamic architecture.

Several disciplines are going to be joining forces under one roof in the future university centre for dentistry (UZB) in Basel. A centre of dentistry competence ranging from basic care to research and teaching is being built. Every year, dentists, dental and preventive care assistants and dental hygienists will be administering more than 80,000 treatments in the 5-storey building.The staircases were a key area of focus on this project, both for architectural reasons and in light of the strict sound insulation requirements. All staircases and landings have a bare architectural concrete finish. Compliance with the requirement of an impact sound level delta ΔLn,w* of 28 dB was mandatory in order to protect the quiet areas (e.g. treatment rooms, lecture halls, library, etc.) from distracting noise.Products from the Schöck Tronsole® range have been implemented for acoustic insulation. These impact sound insulation products enable a structural connection of the staircases and landings with no acoustic bridges whatsoever. Correct planning and installation of Schöck Tronsole® in a system results in a blue line visible at the treated areas. It is the mark of quality for reliable impact sound insulation and acoustic bridge-free installation.

Raising the bar of commercial space in the city centre, the new 77,000 sq. ft. of prestigious office space required a premium washroom shower cubicle solution.Unity Full Height shower cubicles were specified in the basement shower area of Dublin Landings. With minimal floor and ceiling clearances and flush fronts, Unity Full Height ensures maximum privacy for end users.A sturdy, waterproof and easy to maintain material was required for the 19 new shower cubicles, so Solid Grade Laminate (SGL) was specified. Also impact, scratch and heat resistant, SGL is an ideal choice for busy washroom facilities such as these at Dublin Landings. To complement the modern décor of the room, our popular light grey laminate ‘Cloud’ was selected for the full height shower cubicles, creating a bright, fresh and calm environment.Unity’s stainless steel and satin anodised aluminium hardware is durable and corrosion resistant, ideal for commercial shower areas. Some of the cubicles' rise and fall butt hinges were set to fall open, allowing office staff to easily identify vacant shower cubicles.Read the full case study for more details.

The Leicester FC state-of-the-art £100m elite sports training facility occupies a 185-acre site in Seagrave, Leicestershire. Designed by KSS Architects, a world-leading specialist in the design of major sports venues and training centres, the project was a core aspiration of the club’s Chairman Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha who tragically died in 2018.The training centre is regarded as one of the most advanced in Europe in terms of its quality, scale and sustainability ambitions. KSS specified Rockfon® Mono® Acoustic – a seamless acoustic ceiling – for key areas throughout the site. Son of Khun Vichai and current Leicester City Chairman, Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, “A new training ground has been a dream many years in the making, so it is with great pride that we have been able to deliver this. Seagrave will be a pivotal part of the club’s operation for generations to come.”Rockfon Mono Acoustic – the perfect matchAround 430m2 of Rockfon Mono Acoustic ceilings are installed to ensure optimum sound control while delivering a seamless, smooth, aesthetic. Among others, these spaces include the hydrotherapy pool area, the 1st Team changing room and the Owners Suite.KSS Associate Director Lorenzo Pierini, commented, “Rockfon Mono Acoustic was the clear choice for use throughout these spaces as it gave us the contemporary, minimalist look we wanted, while meeting the demanding acoustic control required.”The ultimate alternative There are several acoustic ceiling options available but for the ultimate in looks and sound control, an acoustic render provides the perfect solution. With Rockfon Mono Acoustic, the ceiling tile substrate is installed and then finished with a specialist acoustic render to create a seamless surface. Mono can be used for ceilings, walls, or to create bespoke islands. Its versatility means it can be used to form curves, easily transitioned into plasterboard or integrated into existing mouldings. Outstanding performance Mono achieves Class A sound absorption and Class A2 fire protection whilst delivering 87% light reflection and greater than 99% light diffusion. Thanks to its core of naturally occurring, non-hygroscopic stone wool, it provides no sustenance to harmful micro-organisms, embodies high humidity resistance and is impervious to most environmental pressures. It is Bronze level Cradle to Cradle Certified® and can also contribute valuably to LEED, BREAM and WELL Building Standards.Installation courtesy of Pacy & Wheatley. Pacy & Wheatley Director Craig Wheatley, “The scale and ambition of this project is truly epic. As with the majority of modern developments, large windows, stone, structural steel and other resonant architectural elements can generate unwanted sound. That’s where Mono Acoustic really scores as it does not necessitate a compromise between style and sound control – a win win – if you will. Its flexibility meant we could seamlessly integrate linear and spot lighting at Leicester and neatly incorporate hatches for easy access to the services above. In the pool area the system also enabled us to elegantly transition into plasterboard perimeter upstand abutments.”The wider masterplan The training ground masterplan includes the Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha Building, which houses the primary training, medical and administrative hub. There are twelve full-size pitches, a show pitch with a 499-seat stand to allow academy teams to play in a match environment, The King Power Centre – the site’s central point, housing a full size indoor pitch and media centre that moulds into the landscape, an integrated training centre for first-team and academy squads including fitness and hydrotherapy suites, tactics, media, dining facilities and a nine-hole recreational golf course. McLaren were appointed Main Contractor at Seagrave and were responsible for leading the project. Senior Project Manager at the firm, Simon Ruddick, “The unrelenting progress of this project from day one was a testament to our continued ethos of partnering with key customers, and working to overcome delivery challenges... We have overcome some of the most challenging weather in recorded history too, and of course restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic.”McLaren Managing Director, South, Jay Newman, “It has been an honour to partner with Leicester City to deliver their new training facility, set to shape the players of today and tomorrow. Building on our considerable experience in sports and leisure, Seagrave has become one of the most modern training facilities in Europe. 

Caribbean Blinds have been an external shading expert since 1987. based in Sudbury provide from outdoor living to solar shading, exclusively designing and UK manufacturing luxury external shading systems.Helmsman manufactured, delivered and installed 22 two compartment heavy-duty laminate with camlock locker door. The specification of the locker is 1800 high, 300 wide and 450 deep, powder coated in black and with a laminate door colour of ‘Fenix Nero’.‘Fenix Nero’ is an aesthetic style of laminate, which has low light reflectivity with a matt surface. Additionally, it has a soft touch as well as being anti-fingerprint colour.On the laminated lockers the clients decided to have an oval laminate number plate with a key, making it easy for staff to use as they will be allocated a locker and a key to keep their personal belongings secure.The bespoke lockers were designed and manufactured at Helmsman. Some of the lockers were created to fit in alcove and were fitted with cladding and end panels in matching laminate to make the project look aesthetically pleasing.Get in touch today if you have a similar project, or want any more information on the products discussed, contact us today on 01284 530 427.

First opened in 2011, the Galaxy Resort is one of the largest and most exclusive venues in the world’s gaming capital, Macau, where 36 million people chance their luck every year. Interfloor was proud to be involved in this ambitious project, supplying 108,000 sqm of our Tredaire Defender & 25,000 sqm Tredaire Xtra sponge rubber underlay for the guestrooms, public areas and corridors with an additional 5,000 sqm of our Tredaire FR6 high density PU underlay for hotel corridors.Tredaire Defender was specified at design stage, as this type of sponge rubber textured flat helps to give a luxurious feel, protects the carpet under heavy traffic and passes a wide range of international flammability tests at a cost-effective price.Tredaire FR6 flame retardant underlay was used in the corridors as they wanted a lightweight alternative, and the high-density PU composition is both light and durable with an End Use Classification (BS 5808: 1991: HC/U) Heavy Contract Use, perfect for the high footfall and wheeled baggage. The Tredaire underlay range is renowned for comfort. First released in 1958, the highly regarded Tredaire range is available in crumb rubber, sponge rubber, recycled PU foam for numerous types of flooring

Based in Somerset, Taunton School was founded all the way back in 1847. While the building’s stunning exterior has been immaculately preserved in the years since, the interior has of course been routinely upgraded during that time in order to support the ever-evolving demands of educational environments – including the recent installation of our Type G100 movable wall system.Type G100 is a glazed partition system that provides effective protection again sound transfer when fully closed, achieving up to Rw 54dB. This particular system is comprised of 10 panels, with half being glass and the other half sporting a solid matte black finish – all housed within a sleek black painted aluminium frame.Thanks to the Type G100, the school’s cafeteria layout can changed within minutes, offering the choice between a large open plan space, or a pair of smaller rooms. A fully solid system would not allow for the transfer of natural light to the smaller of the two spaces created when the system is in use, however the glazed panels mean this is not an issue. A pass door also allows for access between the smaller spaces when the panels are being used.

Installation of our MG500 flush glazed sliding folding door system to create an L shaped flexible space over looking London. Panel Profiles powder coated white to match the interior design for the client, with the panel profiles being able to be powder coated to any RAL finish this system is a great option to blend in to any office design. Particularly desirable for office spaces, our MG500 hinged sliding folding glazed wall partitions and glass movable walls offer multiple benefits to your workspace and for your employees. The benefit of the MG500 is that we require no structural support within the ceiling meaning this product can be installed anywhere. With the slim back painted border you have clear view visual lines allowing a superior light flow around the office, cost-effective installation, flexibility in the work environment as well as the simple fact that they look elegant and classy. Not only these, but they also offer exceptional sound reduction allowing for privacy to be had amongst clients or for important internal meetings. The hidden hinges allows us to create a smooth Wall, with no interferences. We worked to achieve a high aesthetic level and produce a architectural product for demanding spaces.

THE PROJECTOswestry Golf Club is an award winning golf club situated on the picturesque North Shropshire/North Wales border. Home to a James Braid designed golf course, state of the art clubhouse, and two former Ryder Cup heroes.They have recently increased security for their dedicated Greenkeepers compound. Heightened security included newly installed perimeter fencing, lighting and an insulated T77 double skinned aluminium roller shutter, with electric motor and safety brake.THE CHALLENGEThe client was looking for increased security for their main shed, with the added need for insulation to improve working conditions for ongoing maintenance work through the winter months.THE SOLUTIONThe T77 is a versatile aluminium roller shutter which is suitable for a wide range of domestic, commercial and retail applications. Its 77mm insulated slat rolls into a box as small as 250mm, and a maximum area of 16m² makes this shutter suitable for windows, doors and many other openings. ‘The aim was to give us increased peace of mind for our newest equipment and also a more usable space for the team throughout the year. The install was carried out in a timely and professional manner, and I am delighted with the finished project.’ Gary Barnfield – Head Greenkeeper

In the heart of Rome, thanks to stone-look outdoor porcelain tiles a private villa is coloured with the appeal and practicality of Atlas Concorde products.A welcoming atmosphere and innovative design take shape in an exclusive residence thanks to Atlas Concorde outdoor tiles that give the indoor and outdoor environments an extremely contemporary look. Employed in the outdoor areas, stone-look tiles on both the floor and on the walls translate nature into a material suitable for designing spaces with an enveloping, suggestive atmosphere. The pool area and the surrounding environment are flooded with intense colours and textures, porcelain tiles for the outdoors being used in different sizes and contrasting colours: light tones and bold hues guarantee a pure creativity able to offer superior technical qualities and the aesthetic versatility that distinguishes the original materials. The refined beauty of the stone look in a Grip finish, with the excellent technical performance of porcelain tiles for outdoors, is the perfect choice for the design of outdoor spaces and environments that require the highest standards of durability and safety. Stylish refinement and attention to detail can also be found in some interior spaces of the building where concrete-look porcelain tiles and wood-look porcelain tiles become the protagonists of a modern, sophisticated style of furnishing.

THE PROJECTCapstan House and the public realm at Republic, East India Dock underwent a major refurbishment to transform the 1990’s post-modern office complex. As part of the project they required retractable awnings which mounted to the ground level facade. This was designed to open up the outdoor terraces for offices, retail units, bars and cafes.THE CHALLENGEThe client was looking for high quality awnings to provide shade for the ground floor reception areas while still allowing natural light in. The design of the awnings needed to match the modern appearance of the offices and encourage socialising through the use of pedestrianised outdoor space.THE SOLUTIONOriginally the Markilux 3300 full cassette awnings was chosen due to it’s angular design. There was however a requirement for a larger projection than width on certain awnings which wasn’t achievable on this awning type. Roché instead advised on using the Markilux 1600 Stretch and Markilux 1600 semi-cassette awnings which would achieve these dimensions and keep a consistent ground floor appearance. This meant that some reception areas were able to achieve projections of up to 400cm from awnings of only 250cm in width.Custom spreader brackets were also required for fixing to a beam through an aluminium curtain.

The Links ELC – CoventryCoventry ELC is a Pupil Referral Unit for Key Stage 3 & 4 pupils who have struggled to access mainstream school education due to Social, Emotional & Mental Health (SEMH) issues.They have recently increased security around the whole facility. Heightened door and window security was delivered thanks to our E37 electric shutters.THE CHALLENGEThe client was looking for increased security for their facility, to cover windows and doors.We worked with their contractor the Darwin Group to work out the best solution and completed the installation of 31 E37 shutters of varying sizes to the external doors and windows.THE SOLUTIONThe E37 is made from an strong extruded double skinned aluminium slat which can be powder coated any RAL colour. With a narrow 37mm slat it is capable of rolling tightly with a 2m high shutter capable of rolling into a 180mm box. It is widely used for domestic and light commercial applications for securing windows and doors up to 4m wide. It is very popular with schools, offices and modular building companies.The E37 comes with numerous control options including manual, key switch or remote control, including group control options.

Covering 460,000 square meters, the equivalent of around 70 soccer fields, Starfield in scenic Hanam, just east of Seoul, is one of the largest shopping malls in South Korea. Stepping inside the mall, shoppers are greeted with copious amounts of natural light coming in through the two glass roofs standing at 35 meters above the ground, built to deliver a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. Our coatings are making sure that Starfield Hanam’s stunning roofs are looking great for the millions of shoppers that the giant mall is catering for.The owner specified a fast-curing primer to increase productivity in the workshop, followed by a high build polyurethane topcoat with a semi-gloss white surface.Intercure 200 was chosen to provide superior long term corrosion protection to the roofs’ steel. The zinc epoxy primer provides rapid cure even under low temperature conditions and is suitable for over-coating within 3 hours in most climatic conditions, speeding up production and throughput in fabrication shops.Semi-gloss and available in a wide range of colors, our Interthane 870 finish coat was used to deliver excellent cosmetics and extended recoatability, assisting in project flexibility.This two coat system boasts a very long global track record.

Built in 1986, Dukes Court was viewed as a symbol of Woking’s economic growth, offering 220,000 sq. ft. of premium office accommodation. These works will ensure Dukes Court continues to play an important role in the town’s future.The front of Dukes Court underwent an extensive remodelling, creating a landscaped pedestrianised public plaza and restaurant with outdoor seating. The building features an impressive full height living ‘green’ wall, which is one of the tallest in Europe. The building is arranged over five blocks which are accessed via three separate reception areas, leading to the flexible floor plates which all benefit from excellent natural light.Other features include:A larger than life statue of composer and suffragette Dame Ethel Smyth will proudly conduct passers-by in the centre of the pedestrianised plaza.New signage and pedestrian routes which will enhance the visitor experience.Relocation of main vehicle entrance from Dukes Street to Stanley RoadMaybury Road, Stanley Road and The Broadway junctions improvements.Granite from around the world (mainly the far east) included BBS Steel (mid grey) granite, Haze (silver grey) granite, Barzan (black) basalt, and Peppercorn (pink) granite.

The Old Saltings has been created on the middle floor of a nineteenth century saltings, situated right on the beach at Porthmeor in St Ives, Cornwall. What was once a place where pilchards would have been packed and salted, has now been dramatically transformed into a stunning contemporary apartment sleeping up to 8 guests.The spacious kitchen has been designed to make the most of the sea views as well as top of the range appliances and fittings. The brushed-satin stainless steel sinktop from GEC Anderson further enhances the light and contemporary living space. Practical, twin sink bowls are seamlessly integrated within the continuous stainless steel worktop-run that also includes an integrated hob. The back upstand provides water safe and hygienic detailing that is typically demanded by discerning and knowledgeable specifiers.Architect Cany Ash of Ash Sakula said, “The GEC Anderson stainless steel worktop provided edge detailing and a finish which was better than the usual alternatives normally associated with catering applications. We especially like the jointless, continuous nature of the surface area. The other benefit of stainless steel is that it is hard wearing, which is very important in a holiday apartment where it will get significant use.

A GEC Anderson stainless steel counter and splashbacks were recently deployed in the new meeting room and ancillary facilities at St Mary’s Church, Wivenhoe. The historic Parish Church of Wivenhoe is thought to be built on Roman foundations and is the oldest remaining building in this small riverside town in Essex. Against this historic background, the new space, designed by Inkpen Downie Architecture, provides a light and airy addition that includes a small kitchen and servery. Stainless steel was specified for the curved counter and for the splashbacks within the kitchen itself. The specified units were supplied and installed by GEC Anderson, under the supervision of local contractor, Bakers of Danbury.“This was a nice project to have been fortunate enough to be involved with and, in my opinion, is a great example of how well new can sit with old. Functionality goes hand in hand with the high quality, smart but informal appearance. The sense of space created by the extension to the main building is impressive and surely a great asset to the Church and its community.” Martin Tye, Managing Director of GEC Anderson.GEC Anderson specialise in made to measure stainless steel worktops, sinks, cabinets and shelving that have been successfully specified in a wide variety of projects and locations. A full measuring and installation service is also provided.

Lambertsson is one of Scandinavia’s largest rental companies and service providers in construction and industrial solutions. Lambertsson erects cranes and elevators for construction projects, among other activities. Shorter building times, better control over costs and smoother processes are therefore critical and beneficial to the project owners.ChallengeLambertsson has been erecting and dismantling elevators for more than a decade using wooden planks or plywood for building the elevator ramps. This method of building ramps is time consuming and resource demanding. Lambertsson needed a simple ramp solution that would make the project planning time more predictable and less time consuming when erecting the elevators. Lambertsson needed a ramp that could handle the same weight as the elevator, equivalent to a capacity of 2.1 tonnes, and without exceeding 1.3 metres from the position .SolutionIn order to meet the criteria of Lambertsson, PcP Scaffolding developed a custom solution based on the PcP OPTIMO® grating series, which is the safest choice for applications in construction, where workers are on the job. To customise a simple solution, PcP built a ramp that is able to lift the same capacity as the elevators, up to 2.1 tonnes, with a span of 80 cm. The ramp is made of aluminium decks and is very light to install.

Providing 21 affordable homes in the first ‘carbon negative’ housing community of its kind in the UK. The initial concept began in 2009 with the aim of creating carbon negative housing. The project is ground breaking with a plan to lock away as much carbon as possible whilst generating excess energy from systems installed.Lewis Deck light weight steel/ screed composite floor system providing acoustic floors improving Building Regulations Part E standards by at least 8dB was installed in the apartments.This project achieved a Zero Carbon certification under the Code for Sustainable Homes and achieved Passiv Haus standards, but was not certified under this system. The performance was monitored by the Technology Strategy Board (TSB) as well as how the social tenants found the experience of living there given the lifestyle adjustments that were needed.The Lewis Deck was used as it achieved the enhanced acoustic and fire performance required in this project, especially given that this was a timber frame development. The elements of the building also had to achieve an A+ Green Guide to Specification rating from the BRE, this was achieved by using a liquid screed on top of the deck that contained a high recycled content.The project won a number of awards and was marketed as the UK's 1st "Carbon Negative" social housing scheme.

Bombardier Services UK based in Biggin Hill is business related to aircraft services such as manufacturing business jets, services and repairs, and general aircraft expertise. The modern office and manufacturing space aligns with the high-quality business jets that they design and produce.Our team at Helmsman, we have manufactured and installed 40 two-compartment heavy-duty laminate lockers with the measurements to be 1900mm high, 300mm wide, and 450mm deep with the lockers to have sloped top-end panels to match the lockers that were manufactured and installed by Helmsman in 2022.The laminate lockers were powder coated with Greenlam Primeval oak to match the light aesthetics of the room as well as to blend with the other lockers with the body of the locker to be ‘Ice’ which is a shade of grey. The laminate lockers were decorated with oval laminated number plates above the Camlocks made by Lowe & Fletcher. The locks are easy to use, with each staff member being allocated to their own lockers which would make the staff feel secure that their items are protected.It was great to work with Bombardier Services UK again on the project. If you have a similar project or want to know more about laminate lockers, give us a call at 01284 530 427.

Located in Surrey, this detached Victorian property needed its top floor timber windows replaced due to rotting. Maintaining the windows was proving costly for the homeowners but they needed a solution that would still look authentic next to their ground floor timber sash windows. After researching their options, the homeowners came across Roseview’s traditional timber alternative sash windows. The possibility of maintenance-free sash windows that are indistinguishable from the original box sashes, but while providing modern thermal efficiency and enhanced security, made Ultimate Rose the obvious choice. Using modern technology, Ultimate Rose is completely seamless with traditional joinery style mechanical joints and the slimmest 35mm mid rail on the market. When installed adjacent to the homeowner’s original windows it was almost impossible to see a difference. The home was finished with a single vertical astragal bar to match the home’s existing sightlines and allow for maximum natural light. Additionally, run through horns and a wood grain texture was added for a fully authentic finish. The result is truly indistinguishable, and the homeowners now have traditional and modern performing sash windows that will last for years to come. The owners are now planning to replace the timber windows on the ground floor with Ultimate Rose as well.

Completed in November 2014, the Four Seasons Dubaisits beside Jumeirah Beach, just ten minutes fromDubai’s famous commercial district.California based architect WATG worked alongsideinterior designer BAMO to create a resort heavilyinfluenced by mediterranean architecture and the hotel’sseaside location. For example, the lobby sits underneathan octagonal dome finished with gold leaf that enhancesthe natural light coming through the windows.Each of the 237 guestrooms come with a balcony,offering panoramic views of the sea or the city’sextravagant skyline, punctuated by the world’s tallestbuilding, the Burj Khalifa.The luxury hotel required a tailored package toensure it’s aesthetic flair was complemented bythe door furniture.The intricate detail on the Royal Suite doors wasmatched by custom made lattice pull handles in a pewterfinish (far right image), whilst the rest of the suite andpublic areas were supplied with pull and knob handles ina co-ordinated bronze finish.In contrast, the hotel opted for a polished finish in thepresidential suite, with nickel and stainless steel thepreferred materials. A full spectrum of door furniture wasapplied including lever handles, lock cases and doorclosers, all supplied in the desired polished finish.

In a small town just outside Stirling in Scotland is this beautiful, traditional property built from Scottish sandstone. The new owners have extended and completely refurbished the house, originally built in 1870. Although modernised and featuring some contemporary features the original charm has been kept.In order to maximize natural light, a total of 10 Clement Conservation Rooflights were installed. These not only look beautiful in the traditional Welsh slate roof but also improve thermal efficiency and are low maintenance.The homeowner said: “We are delighted with our Clement Conservation Rooflights. We have now fitted ten into our period house renovation and they look great.“Quality wise they are solid and well built, no problems with manual winders, and the double glazing, sound proofing and heat retention is brilliant. We searched around and Clement seemed a good price for the quality. Dealing with them as a company has been a pleasure, always helpful with sound advice and never a delay in delivery dates.“We have been lucky enough to work with very talented and courteous craftsmen and suppliers - like Clement, who went the extra mile to make sure that we fully understood the options available and helped us create the perfect home.”

The office “G+P Muller architectes” designed a total of 94 rooms, including classrooms, laboratories, workshops and studios. The Lycée also has its own swimming pool, sports halls and a canteen kitchen with an attached cafeteria. The straight-lined architecture, which uses daylight in a variety of ways and cleverly leads into the building, is captivated by a fresh color concept that takes on an aesthetic and structuring function throughout the building.In order to harmoniously adapt the swimming pool, sanitary areas and canteen kitchen to the color concept, the architects chose two tile series from Villeroy&Boch: PRO ARCHITECTURA and UNIT ONE. In addition to the necessary technical properties for public kitchens and wet areas, the PRO ARCHITECTURA series in particular offers a professional color and format system.For the sanitary area, the architects chose orange, which also appears in the school’s logo, as well as red and white, using several of the system’s modular formats. The swimming pool area is designed around the pool with specially anti-slip tiles from the PRO ARCHITECTURA series. In the surrounding areas, the swimming pool is divided into the colors light and dark gray, which harmonize very well with the concrete elements and the wooden ceiling.

Harbour Light Assisted Living CIC housing association approached Hush Acoustics to upgrade the floor within one of its flats to offer a higher level of soundproofing in line with the specific requirements of one of its tenants.The housing association, which specialises in providing bespoke accommodation and services to assist people with disabilities to fulfil their responsibilities as tenants and help them live an independent life, sought to improve the acoustic performance of a separating floor in the flat for a new resident. The individual suffered from an Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC), also referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), which meant any flooring solution had to be appropriate for their needs, not only to reduce both impact and airborne ‘noise nuisance’ encroaching to the flat below, but also to ensure the final floor finish could be fully bonded to the acoustic substrate. The potential noise issues were regarded as higher than typical domestic noise which meant a more robust specification was required.The solution was provided by Hush Mat 15 with Hush Ply 28 overlaid. This provided the required mass, flexibility and isolation, as well as a robust surface to allow the floor covering to be directly bonded, ensuring it could not be lifted.

The Carnegie Library & Galleries in Dunfermline designed by Richard Murphy Architects features over 700m2 of Junckers solid oak flooring. The original library building and an adjacent former bank, both grade B listed, have been extended and integrated to form a spectacular, award-winning space. A new museum, gallery space, café, shop and reading rooms are linked to the original library building by an ‘internal street’ connecting new and existing spaces. To provide a continuous backdrop as well as visually and aesthetically link the old and new parts, Junckers 15mm Wide Board Oak finished in Ultramatt lacquer was specified throughout the building. The attractive grain pattern of the timber adds a natural element to the interior, which is flooded with natural light. Junckers’ solid wood flooring offers a durable surface even for high traffic areas. Pre-finished in a choice of hard-wearing, long-lasting lacquers and oils from Junckers’ own professional range of finishing products, a Junckers floor is easy to install and maintain and it will last a lifetime with the right care. Particularly popular with architects and designers, Junckers’ long-length plank flooring really comes into its own in a large open space. The flooring contractor was GL Floors. 

Exchange Square, designed by DSDHA, is a refurbishment of a major 1.5-acre public park above the tracks of Liverpool Street Station in London. Our terrazzo was supplied throughout, including water features, amphitheatre steps, paving and planter edges with complex 3D pieces. The challenge for In Opera was to provide over 3000 pieces, 90% of which were unique and many having to fit into each other perfectly. The 1.5-acre park will see a four-fold increase in the amount of planting and dramatically enhance biodiversity, with 25% of the area featuring green space that is accessible to all.Quadrupling the amount of green space at Broadgate, the aim is to boost the emotional and physical well-being of those that work at Broadgate and the local community while supporting British Land’s commitment to sustainability and biodiversity.We are proud to have been involved in such a major development, which aims to draw people together and help the communities thrive in a better environment. What was once a dark uninviting space has been transformed into a light and welcoming place where people can truly live, where communities and businesses can thrive, and that helps the planet to flourish. It is a more attractive, less corporate environment for Broadgate, which creates places to dwell, not just pass through.

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

The design of this bathroom needed to reflect the client’s colourful, modern and eclectic aesthetic, whilst still allowing for a tranquil, restorative space in which to batheHandmade Moroccan concrete tiles by Popham Design in a soft green shade feel serene and natural, but also inject a pop of colour. Elsewhere in the room, design is kept minimal, modern and almost industrial in its simplicity, with a neutral colour palette and brushed nickel tapware. To visually expand the space, the layout of this bathroom was re-designed to make the room feel elongated, and draw the eye in. To complement this, the Moroccan tiles line the floor and furthest wall behind the wet room and back-to-wall Eldon bath.Of the design, designer and stylist Edwina Boase said: “The Eldon bath was perfect for this bathroom; its elegant, modern shape was echoed in the patterned tiles, lighting and tapware. The Eldon design is impactful yet economic with regards to the floor space required, which is preciously what was required for this project!”This house in its entirety was recently unveiled on Channel 4’s home renovation series ‘Ugly House to Lovely House with George Clarke’.Photography: Amazing Productions / Daniela ExleyArchitecture: Chris Dyson ArchitectsDesign: Edwina Boase