"school"

St Francis of Assisi Catholic College in Walsall, needed to replace their existing flooring in their main sports hall, in order to cater for the demanding needs at the facility.International flooring specialist Gerflor supplied 650m2 of their world class Taraflex® Multi-Use vinyl sports flooring in Light Grey (Concrete) to complete the refurbishment project to the highest standards.Chris Newey, Gerflor Specification Area Sales Manager, West Midlands said, “The existing sports hall floor was in desperate need of refurbishment. The new Concrete effect Taraflex has transformed the look of the hall from a dated school sports hall to a fresh and very modern look.”The management and procurement process of the new sports floor would be the responsibility of the Schools Site Manager Bernie McNally who is a former professional footballer for West Bromwich Albion and has also pulled on the green jersey for his home country Northern Ireland.Bernie McNally said, “We are delighted with the results and how less intrusive Gerflor’s Taraflex sports flooring was to fit, against digging concrete out which would have been a lengthy, costly, and messy process. Our Headmaster is really impressed with the new Taraflex sports floor, which is performing really well and also looks amazing, the before and after pictures speak for themselves.”The installation of the new Taraflex® Multi-Use floor would be undertaken by the Solihull-based FLR Group. Adam Kaid, Contracts Manager, FLR Flooring said, “Gerflor have some of the best options and varieties out there and we are always extremely confident in the quality of their products.”

Architectural glazing systems by Kawneer were specifically selected for a £18.5 million extension to the UK’s oldest business school for their ability to meet the building’s design aesthetic and high-performance requirements. The new 3,000m2 extension features Kawneer’s AA®110 and AA®100 mullion-drained curtain wall systems with capped and capless mullions as well as AA®100 zone-drained fully-capped curtain wall. The AA®100 system, with 50mm sightlines, was used in all areas with the exception of two full-height curtain wall screens which featured on the building’s ‘social space’ characteristic that utilised the AA®110 system with 65mm sightlines.

BackgroundThe University of Brighton’s history goes back to when the Brighton School of Art was opened in the Royal Pavilion in 1858. However, it is since it achieved University status in 1992, that the institution has really began to grow to quickly become one of the most popular destinations for students in the South East.  The influx of students over the past three decades has meant a growing demand for accommodation that for many years the city hasn’t been geared up for and this has been an issue particularly in the suburb of Moulsecoomb, a neighbourhood housing the biggest of the four campuses and that has seen itself forced to transform onto a growing number of HMOs that aren’t quite suited for student living and that are struggling to coexist with local residents. Brighton’s architecture is mostly famous for ‘The Laines’ and the iconic Royal Pavilion however the city developed during the Regency, Victorian and Edwardian periods and was also greatly influenced by the Art Deco, Modernist and postmodernist movements resulting in an architecturally rich and diverse townscape that today has over 1200 listed structures with special architectural or historical interest.  The distinctive low rise character of the city is also a consequence of its position between the sea and the downs and although modern living and the scarcity of land available and apt for building put on the table the need for tall construction, the local planning committees are often strict when it comes to high rise and not only expect this type of new construction to demonstrate a high standard of design and to make a positive contribution to the visual quality of the environment but they also require that they live up to the city’s exceptionally fine historic environment context, and its cultural identity.The projectHassell Studio and Design South East were given the gruelling task of heading the regeneration of the Moulsecoomb campus to house the School of Business and Law, the School of Architecture, Technology and Engineering, the School of Applied Sciences, part of the School of Art and Media, state of the art student accommodation for over 800 students and leisure facilities. A project that would be delivered by construction giants Bouygues. The design concept was a cluster of buildings with 5 student halls built on the site of the old Preston Barracks, Watts House and Mithras House and where Goldstone hall was the tallest building of the development. With 18 floors, Goldstone hall not only became the focal point of the development but also the tallest tower to be built in Brighton in the 50 years prior to its construction.  Julian Gitsham, Principal and Education and Science Leader, who headed the project at Hassell, recalls how aware he and his team were of not only the architectural impact but also of the socio-economic significance of the development for the local area and how these aspects led to a meticulous study of all aspects of the project, it made the quality of the scheme non-negotiable and locked the material specification.  There was no doubt that the Goldstone hall would be the heart of the development and as such, that it had to have distinctive features. Julian and his team sought a natural and robust material that would make the building stand out from the lower brick architecture characteristic of the local area however they also wanted to portray the dynamic nature of the future of the building and they were able to achieve that through the use of glazed terracotta panels that reflected the sun light and changed in appearance with the weather, displaying the perception of a different façade every time. Julian comments ‘it is fascinating to see how on darker, foggy days, the building seems to disappear into the sky’. In the spirit of great architectural wit, despite of the contrast in materiality, the architects sought to reflect the neighbouring architecture in the body of the tower and for that they selected 20 different colours found across the local townscape and using a purposedly designed algorithm, these were randomly set out across the facades of the building showcasing the tonalities of the local architecture and the shades of the Brighton sky, gradually from the lower to the upper floors. A challenging task that skilled cladding contractors M Price delivered impeccably. Some of the chosen colours also paid homage to those found on the façade of the now gone The Lectern, which was the local go to pub for the students of the campus.Call-to-ActionTerracotta is one of the cladding resources of choice in the market because it is a natural and versatile material that gives architects freedom of expression whilst it gives cladding and envelope contractors the advantages of a quick and easy installation process.  The Argeton system is one of the principal terracotta systems used Worldwide not only because it is a natural and versatile material but also because it offers a technical and cost effective solution for the residential, commercial and health and education sectors. Argeton is CE and UKCA market and also one of the most tested systems in the market including a BBA and an EPD. NHBC approved and not subject to any restrictions on building height or proximity to boundaries thanks to its Euro-class A1 Fire certification, it is no surprise Argeton is one of the materials of choice not only in new builds but also for refurbishment or re-clad. Durable and fully recyclable, ISO 14025 and EN 15804 (European BREEAM equivalent) certified, sustainability is at the heart of Argeton’s values.' Argeton terracotta is available in a range off the shelf and bespoke profiles, in lengths to suit and in natural, glazes and engobed finishes. https://tellingrainscreens.co.uk/profile-and-finishes/

Duo D410/D411 Glass InfillDuo D431 Perforated Infill Top FixDelta Balustrades were pleased to play a part in of the large Birmingham BSF Scheme with the completion of several hundreds of metres of balustrades in this new build project. Balustrades were installed to far reaching street areas with feature stairs leading to 2nd floor. Continuing across atrium bridge links on both 1st and 2nd floors, several staircases, and external terraces the Duo system provided a focal point for the building.In line with Birmingham City Council’s requirements for schools, guarding to atrium edge and external terrace was required to be 1500mm high above FFL. A number of special access gates were required to match adjoining balustrades.

Burlington House has been a home of the Royal Academy of Arts, the oldest art school in Britain, since 1867. Over the years this canonic site has seen impressive additions by a number of acclaimed architects. Continuing this rich history, in 2018, David Chipperfield Architects completed a major redevelopment of the building, delivering a brand new home to the RA.InOpera Group supplied and installed the terrazzo floors for the major parts of this new space, including Benjamin West Lecture theatre, Cast Corridor, Collection Gallery, hallways and staircases leading to the galleries, and public restrooms.In 2001, the RA purchased Burlington Gardens, the building that sits right behind the Burlington House. Since then, they’ve embarked on a bold masterplan to join the two buildings together for the first time in history.The project was undertaken by, none other than, David Chipperfield Architects. The practice has won more than 100 international awards and citations for design excellence, including the RIBA Stirling Prize in 2007 for The Museum of Modern Literature in Marbach, Germany.With the bold reconfiguration, they’ve created new workshops, library and more studio space for the Schools. Existing spaces, which were built in 1870, were restored to maximize space and light, with improved access and circulation.The requirements for the floor materials prioritised high-traffic endurance, slip-resistance and design that will blend in with the existing interiors of the buildings, which are rich with natural stone and classical elements.For this project, we supplied custom-made cement-based terrazzo with two types of finishes. The polished finish was installed for the gallery spaces, and the honed for the areas with more traffic. The material guarantees even colouration and consistent texture throughout the entire floor area. For the Benjamin West Lecture Theatre, staircases were carved out from custom-sized terrazzo blocks.

One can clearly see how functionality meets aesthetic appearance in perforated acoustic birch plywood panels. Precisely perforated panels complement every interior design and the sound-enhancing properties create a pleasant living and working environment. Acoustics play an important role in one’s well-beingAcoustics are important in different construction projects - starting from exhibition booths to concert halls, schools and other public spaces. The best results are achieved in close collaboration with engineers, architects and designers, ensuring the effective combination of sound-enhancing properties and visual aesthetics of acoustic panels to meet the requirements of each project. Furthermore, acoustics play a significant role in one’s well-being. A noisy environment can cause discomfort and increase one’s stress level, as well as hinder communication and reduce the ability to concentrate. With perforated acoustic birch plywood panels, it is possible to minimise obstructions in everyday situations.Perforated acoustic Riga Wood birch plywood panels in projectsWe have recently taken part in multiple projects, where perforated acoustic Riga Wood birch plywood panels were used. The technical requirements of each project are unique. A military base, primary school, cultural centre and Christian congregation – these are just a few to mention and be proud of.Perforated acoustic birch plywood panels are very versatile - wall and ceiling panels can be adjusted in shape and size, overlaid with wood veneer, laminate or lacquered. Panel sizes can be adjusted for each and every project specification, keeping in mind functional and visual needs, as well as installation requirements. This is why we can see the use of our perforated acoustic Riga Wood birch plywood panels in so many and such conceptually different projects.Products used in these projects: Riga Decor, Riga Lacquer, Riga Ply, Riga HPL

Ten Locks Village is a range of 2, 3, 4, and 5 bedroom homes located in Market Harborough, Leicestershire. This countryside town has excellent transport links and proximity to major road networks, only an hour's commute to London by train. With off-street parking, natural beauty, and various amenities, including the historic Rockingham Castle, Ten Locks Village was named in the Sunday Times Best Place to Live within the catchment area for a primary and Secondary school education.Cellecta ScreedBoard 28 was specified for this project due to its unrivalled performance. The unique interlocking edges on our ScreedBoard 28 mean that no screws are required, making it easy to install, a convenience on-site saving installation time.Avant Homes were awarded the contract to construct this 400m² development.

Millets Farm is a family run farm centre including farm shop, garden centre, leisure attractions and activity areas.  This award winning location has now turned to Marsh Industries twice in 5 years for expert advice on how to best support the expanding facilities onsite.In the first instance, a sewage treatment plant was required for its Children’s Activity Centre in 2017.  A Marsh Ultra:Polylok 125PE was selected for this popular destination.In 2021 this thriving regional attraction identified that the existing sewage treatment arrangements for the main Farm Shop, Restaurant and Function rooms needed to be upgraded.  Millets Farm again turned to Marsh Industries.  This time a Marsh Ultra:Polylok 250PE was required to cover the variety of facilities and their associated footfall alongside the increased staff numbers. With installation successfully completed in the Autumn between school holidays.

Chapter Aldgate is a high-end student accommodation facility in London. It offers luxury amenities for residence and a variety of rooms.Chapter Aldgate is a high-end student accommodation building that can house up to 400 students. Located inLondon’s White Chapel, it’s nearby HULT Business School, Istituto Marangoni London, Queen Mary University, and Aldgate Underground.It is one of 13 buildings operated by the Chapter brand and is owned by Real Estate and Property company, Greystar.Chapter Aldgate was left with a reliable security solution that added a layer of security on top of their security guards to enable safe 24/7 access. While providing comfort to students who live within the facilities, it has also given the client an aesthetic, minimal product that seamlessly blends in.

‘‘To meet the rigorous demands of this type of environment, all facilities in our academy have to be robust, efficient and fit for purpose. Centurion has fulfilled these requirements, and has given an excellent finished appearance in all washroom areas.’’ Graham Turner, Facilities Manager, Tudor Grange Academy.Solihull Council, having specified Venesta in the past, chose our Centurion Privacy range for the six male and female toilet facilities situated throughout the campus. This gave the academy the long-lasting quality that they were looking for.Installation was during school holidays which meant there were strict time constraints, so Vepps, our industry-leading pre-plumbed paneling system, was the obvious choice for Tudor Grange Academy.Read the full case study for more details.

Le Fitz Roy is a chalet at Europe’s highest ski resort, bustling Val Thorens in the French Alps. Extensively renovated in December 2021, its modern makeover includes a Turkish hammam and a heated pool carved out of the mountain, a bar designed as an open space on the terrace and the ease of ski-in/ ski-out accessibility. In true chalet style, as well as slate-grey interiors there's also plenty of old-school, cosy charm too, from antique wooden skis mounted on the walls, stone and oak architecture warmed by flickering fires, and classical French cuisine in the restaurant.The traditional York roll top tub has been specified in a number of rooms which, after a long day on the pistes, is exactly where you want to come back to.Marlborough

GEC ANDERSON OFFERS PRISTINE PERFORMANCE FOR UCS SPORTS PAVILIONThe fit out of a major new academic sports facility in North London has included the selection of custom built sinks, work-surfaces, shelving and other stainless steel units, manufactured and installed by sector specialist, GEC Anderson.The University College School Sports Pavilion in Hampstead has been designed by Marcus Beale Architects (MBA) with LIFE Build Solutions of High Wycombe filling the role of main contractor. The area was farmland until the 20th century. The use as playing fields dates from the 1920s.The 18th month project encompassed upgrades to the schools playing fields themselves and the erection of a two-storey structure with extensive changing room facilities, showers and toilets on the first floor. The comprehensive catering facilities include kitchens large enough to serve a dining area which can seat 200. Amongst the stainless steel fabrications designed and fashioned by GEC Andersons highly experienced workforce are a number of base units which combine with single section work-surfaces, sinks and splashbacks to create an easily cleaned, hygienic and ergonomic working environment.As well as the actual kitchen, GEC Anderson also supplied adjustable wall shelving and an L-shaped, three level base unit for a food storage and preparation area. In several places GEC Andersons site survey and subsequent liaison with the project team, which also included The Litmus Partnership Ltd. Catering Consultants, led to units being tailored to fit around structural columns and to accommodate different sized pieces of catering equipment.The stainless steel back bar, with associated fabrications and appliances were also supplied and installed by GEC Anderson.A spokesperson for MBA commented: In 2015 MBA won an invited competition to design a new sports pavilion on the site. Thorough analysis of the topography and the wider views led to a radical design for a pavilion in two parts, linked by a bridge angled westwards to align precisely with the Wembley Arch.

After securing funding via the CIF application, Knighton Fields Primary Academy was able to address some of the long-term issues they had in relation their roof, which was beginning to show signs of wear.ChallengesThe existing waterproofing had been suffering with significant amounts of standing water, water ingress, structural deck failure (localised), poor thermal insulation, and several tired old and dilapidated lantern roof lights. All roof areas needed to be inspected and level surveyed and, in one localized area, the existing waterproofing and deck had to be entirely stripped and removed owing to significant deflection and fear of collapse. The works needed to progress swiftly so as to provide minimal disruption to the school environment.SolutionsAfter inspection, proposals were put forward for a tapered insulation overlay where deemed necessary, to help improve falls to existing outlets and rid the problem of standing water. In most instances, the existing roof covering was simply overlaid and formed part of the new Air and Vapour Control Layer (AVCL) before a new Hytherm ADH flat/tapered insulation board and two-layer fully adhered Excel RBM system was installed over this. On the area where the existing waterproofing had been stripped, the deck was replaced (to falls), a new AVCL installed and the same Excel warm roof system was carried through to complete these areas.Works progressed throughout the summer holidays to avoid any disruption to the school or pupils. NFRC Safe2Torch principles were observed, prescribed and employed as part of the scope of works. An Insurance backed Guarantee covering design, materials and workmanship was issued upon practical completion of the works and following successful sign off from the Axter in-house QA team (who monitored the procession of works from start to finish) to the client, indemnifying their risk and protecting the building and its occupants for a period of 25 years.Systems in useExcel®

There has always been a relationship between design and the marrying up of form, function and aesthetics. While popularity of materials and styles comes and go over the years, how products look, feel and perform is constant. This interesting interplay is explored in the latest online theme from Troldtekt A/S, the Danish manufacturer of acoustic panels. Comprising expert articles, white papers and interviews, the ‘Architectural Beauty’ theme looks at the concept of architectural beauty and the importance of aesthetics in leading certification schemes for sustainable building. It acknowledges that it is not always possible to harmonise the aesthetic with the practical but that there are some ways in which they can be combined to provide value to a building while enhancing its beauty. Australian artist and designer Jay Dee Dearness sums it up well - “Beauty is the melding of functionality and aesthetics in just the right proportions to achieve the desired result.’ Acoustic product manufacturers, such as Troldtekt, embrace this relationship and are at the forefront of practical, aesthetic and high performance products and design. Troldtekt’s wood wool panelling is a perfect canvas allowing architects and designers to realise their most creative schemes, safe in the knowledge that acoustical performance will not be compromised.Since 1903, Copenhagen has presented annual awards for beautiful buildings, landscaping and urban spaces within the city. The Copenhagen Building Award comprises four categories - new buildings, restoration, refurbishment and urban environments. “We present the awards to honour the architects, engineers and developers behind the projects. Also, we’re keen to support projects and urban spaces that are of particular benefit to the city and its citizens”, comments Camilla van Deurs, City Architect of the City of Copenhagen and chair of the building award jury.Copenhagen’s Grøndalsvængets School (pictured), is one of the winning projects chosen by the Copenhagen Building Awards 2020. The school has undergone thorough renovation and expansion, all designed by JJW Arkitekter. It now has a fully modern learning environment where the original qualities have been preserved – and where the indoor climate is exemplary. Like most schools, it used to be noisy by nature from the exuberance of children. Now, this stunning example of architectural beauty shows how large bright spaces, natural daylight and interesting design works well with aesthetic high performance products. It also shows how wood wool acoustic panels make such designs possible while dampening ambient and reverberated noise which would otherwise be unbearable for users.  Many buildings have unique challenges relating to acoustic issues but all can benefit from acoustic panelling to help contribute towards improving the interior environment. 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 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 www.troldtekt.co.uk (tel 01978 664255). In addition, information on Troldtekt’s Architectural Beauty theme can be found at https://www.troldtekt.com/news/themes/architectural-beauty or https://bit.ly/3jvFmV2

Coláiste an Chláirín Bauder Thermofol single ply waterproofing system with BauderROCK insulationSynopsisThe new Coláiste an Chláirín building in Athenry, Co Galway is a post primary school consisting of classrooms, a special needs unit, sports hall, general-purpose hall, staff amenities and extensive external facilities designed by Smith Kennedy Architects & Healy Partners Architects. The project was managed by JJ Rhatigan and Company and the roofing element appointed to Priority Roofing and Cladding Ltd. The roof of the main building and the gymnasium required flat roof build-ups to meet the specifications as set out in in SDG 02-05-03 (Acoustic Performance in New Primary & Post Primary School Buildings), while meeting the general performance requirements specified within TGD 021-7 2018 (Minimum Performance Standards of Roof Materials and Finishes). The chosen system had to meet an acoustic performance of 35dB indoor ambient noise level (IANL). It was decided that, despite sports halls having a slightly higher IANL threshold, the 35dB performance criteria would be applied across all areas of the school, with control of reverberation being a key consideration in the gym.Bauder Building BoardProject:Coláiste an ChláirínLocation:County GalwayProject type:New BuildRoof size:8550m²Main contractor:JJ Rhatigan & CompanyApproved contractor:Priority Roofing & Cladding LtdThe specification:The Architect specified that the insulation used in the flat roof system should be non-combustible and achieve a U-value of 0.16Wm²k which actually exceeds the thermal requirements as described in the Irish Building Regulations Technical Guidance Document L for flat roofs in schools.BauderROCK was specified to achieve the thermal and acoustic requirements of the design. As a Euroclass A2-s1,d0 non-combustible material, BauderROCK also provided the specified fire performance. This insulation could be used across all roof areas, with some adaptations for the gym which required additional acoustic performance due to the inherent nature of the space. Acoustic infills were used in the troughs of the perforated metal deck, thus combatting the reverberation of the indoor environment.  Products appliedBauder Thermofol PVCAn integrated single ply waterproofing system, featuring a lightweight, cost effective membrane which offers a pleasing aesthetic finish on a flat roof. This system holds fire classification BROOF(t4) for compliance with building regulations under TS 1187 test method 4 for external fire exposure to roofs. BauderROCKHigh density mineral wool insulation.Project challengesOne of the challenges of this project was the ambitious schedule. The use of the self-adhesive air and vapour control layer (AVCL) enabled the trades working within the building to progress quickly without being delayed by weather conditions. BauderROCK is relatively quick to install, as was the lightweight single ply waterproofing.  The resultThe project was finished to time and specification with exceptional workmanship from the fixers at Priority Roofing and Cladding and superb collaboration from all parties throughout. The membrane was finished with standing seams to create a statement look. The roof achieved a U-value of 0.15 W/m2k, exceeding the thermal target, and met or exceeded the 35db IANL requirement across the main building and the sports hall.  The thermal performance, which will hold up for decades to come, will also impart energy efficiency benefits that reduce running costs at the school in the long term. Finally, the non-combustible nature of the mineral wool insulation ensured that the build-up met the fire safety specification. System installed Bauder Thermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system1 Bauder THERMOFOL U15 V FRThis 1.5mm polyester reinforced Poly Vinyl Chloride membrane (PVC) membrane benefits from being highly flexible due to the incorporation of internal plasticizers during the manufacturing process. The combination of materials within this membrane provides high tensile strength, with thermal stability and chemical resistance.2 BauderROCKA mineral fibre non-combustible insulation with high acoustic performance. The dual density mineral wool composition delivers compressive strength, whilst keeping the overall weight to a minimum and providing high noise absorption which enabled the complete system to meet project requirements.3 BauderTEC DBR 06This 0.6mm, self-adhesive, elastomeric air and vapour control layer is light weight and benefits from cleaner, safer, and faster installation than traditional torch applied membranes. Advocacy Niall Hanley, Contracts Manager at JJ Rhatigan, the project’s main contractor, said:"Coláiste an Chláirín Athnery was a great success and in particular the use of the self-adhesive AVCL in advance of the build-up allowed works to commence immediately internally, which was critical from a programme perspective.” Kevin Ryan, Director at Priority Roofing, explained:"We found the system both practical and efficient to install. The combination of the availability of the products and the technical backup received was superior to any other system that we have worked with.”  Eoin O’Grady, Associate Director at Healy Partners Architects commented:"We are delighted with the overall delivery of the roof build-up and the performance achieved. The PE hall solution to deal with reverberation noise as well as rainfall noise was very successfully managed. We look forward to working with Bauder on future projects.” 

The Marshall Building is a new mixed-use education building for the London School of Economics. Designed by Grafton Architects, the interior enhances the student experience and offers visually fascinating architecture.The design includes a helical concrete staircase that starts from ground floor up to the teaching spaces on the first and second floor. The interior cathedral-like space comprises large spanning concrete ‘trees’ in a cruciform arrangement which was inspired by the local 17th century chapel’s architecture. The unpainted concrete surfaces were decorated using KEIM Concretal Lasur, a colourwash stain that enhances and protects the substrate whilst retaining the look and feel of concrete. We are delighted that this project has won several awards, Civic Trust Awards – National Panel Special Award 2023, AJ Architecture Awards 2022 and Education Estates Awards 2022, to name a few. 

Project: Goole Town Center, YorkshireGOplastic Ltd were delighted to be contacted by the architectural assistant at East Riding Council with a view to getting involved with town centre improvement.Goole Town Centre has now been furnished with the very latest modern and contemporary designs available from Goplastic, with a contrasting colour theme to great effect. Historically, recycled products tended to be basic in style and brown or black but GOplastic has successfully accomplished its’ vision to bring unique designs with more colour into the materials, which are now in demand in schools, academies, leisure centres and public spaces. The Matrix 08 Picnic table (pictured), is 2m long and seats 6 – 8 comfortably. The Matrix 05 bench (also pictured), can be teamed with the London table as shown, or serve as a single bench seat with back. Planters from the Agora range complemented the seating range.

Valette Square is a community of 33 mixed 2, 3 and 4 bedrooms townhouses with private gardens and terraces, built in Salford’s historic centre. Developed by @buttressarchitects , it was designed to introduce new homes to the area, create easy links to nearby areas and for community spaces to exist where possible.The area is named after Pierre Adolphe Valette – a French impressionist who taught the local painter L.S Lowry, and taught at the Manchester Municipal School of Art. The local existing Georgian aesthetics were echoed in the development with Floren’s Brunello bricks being selected for their tones and subtlety, leaning towards nearby red brick buildings.Amongst numerous sustainable efforts, the townhouses’ façade and positioning make the most of natural daylight to reduce the amount of artificial lighting needed, improved insulation and smart heating systems.Valette Square was shortlisted for the Housing Design Award in 2020

This is the new series of semi-vertical cycle parking Falco installed this month for BBC Studio’s new Bridgewater House production base, located in Bristol City Centre.Falco manufactured, supplied and installed 110 spaces of the innovative space-efficient FalcoVert-Pro semi-vertical cycle rack, providing employees and visitors to the broadcaster with secure and accessible cycle parking.The popular FalcoVert-Pro design was chosen for its capability to be located within compact areas, such as the facility shown here, providing cyclists with up to 30% more cycle parking spaces compared to using any other traditional cycle rack or stand.The compact cycle rack is capable of accommodating all types of cycles – from racing cycle to mountain bikes and even cycles with extra wide tyres.The recent installation shown here at is just one of many underground environments Falco has supplied and installed cycle parking equipment for. Other recent examples include two-tier cycle racks for Macquarie Bank in London, two-tier cycle parking for three flagship Selfridges stores across the UK, VelowUp® vertical cycle stands and two-tier cycle racks for the University of Edinburgh, 150 two-tier cycle rack spaces for Marks & Spencer at Paddington Basin in London as well as semi-vertical cycle parking for Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London.Semi-Vertical Cycle RackThe FalcoVert-Pro is an innovative and space efficient cycle rack design ideal for cycle hubs, shopping centres, stations, car parks and private businesses. Bicycles are parked semi vertically with both front and rear wheels located in a custom designed trough.The FalcoVert-Pro is increasingly used to maximise the amount of cycle spaces within any given area and as shown here at The Guildhall School of Music and Drama, with an increase of treble the amount of cycle sapces compared to traditional Sheffield Stands.Please click here to see the FalcoVert-Pro product page.For more information about the innovative semi-vertical cycle rack, please contact our helpful sales team on 01538 380080.

The Sands - Durham WaterfrontArchitect: Ryder Architecture LtdInstaller: Pennine ContractsProduct: Durlum Polylam BafflesLSA Projects supplied over 300 linear metres of Durlum Polylam baffles to the new facility The Sands on Durham Waterfront in the city centre. The new riverside development was intended to move the County Council headquarters into the city centre for improved public transport connections for staff and other visitors.In 2022 the building applied for change of use planning to convert the landmark building into additional learning spaces for Durham University Business School. The change of use allows the department of the Russell Group university to move straight into the ready-made facility after delays with their original plans for a different site.The £50m facility has space for the 2,300 students and members of staff at the business school across the 1.4 hectare site. In addition to traditional learning spaces the building has modern working space for staff and academics and hopes to attract leading businesses to work with the university and graduates.Durlum Polylam baffles were used for the feature ceiling in the main event space. The ceiling is made up of 320mm deep 100mm wide baffles in concentric squares with the outer square measuring an impressive 20 metres across. Polylam pieces were finished in a Dur-Graphic faux Cherry veneer print and mounted in 9 double-row rings with alternating strip lighting and integrated ventilation systems.Polylam from Durlum is a versatile ceiling system made up of vertical baffles available in a range of sizes up to 100mm wide by 800mm deep. Pieces can be installed using suspension grid systems available from Durlum in a variety of ways including independent mounting and group mounting with regular spacing and options for demount-ability.Baffles are made from either galvanised sheet steel or aluminium and finished in a choice of RAL colour powdercoating as a standard with options for gloss and metallic finishes as well as Dur-Graphic and Duroplan printed designs. Acoustic perforations can also be applied to the baffles as well as incorporating Dur-Sonic acoustic mineral wool filling to the inside of the hollow baffle lengths.

English National Ballet and the English National Ballet School have moved to a brand new world-class home at London City Island. Designed by award-winning architects Glenn Howells Architects working together with fit-out and refurbishment experts BW, the new building provides 93,000 sq ft of unprecedented facilities. The enormous project for Harlequin Floors involved the completion of eight rehearsal studios. Harlequin Activity sprung flooring was installed with Harlequin Cascade vinyl performance surface.Completed installation of over 1900m2 of Harlequin Activity sprung floor and Harlequin Cascade vinyl surface and a further 200m2 of Harlequin Standfast vinyl performance surface in fitness and rehab facilities. Additionally, 225m2 Harlequin Liberty sprung floor panels were supplied for the Company to take on tour. Initially hired as temporary floors for the rehearsal studio space at Here East during the construction phase, these were then purchased for touring use. 

With several stops marked out on the future Crossrail route, new-builds on the rise, and an impressive range of ‘Outstanding’ schools, this culturally diverse borough of Ealing is becoming more popular than ever. To meet this popularity new-build property is on the rise however there is strict guidance on design of new buildings. Licata Building Systems in partnership with Build-Therm Services Limited were commissioned to specify and supply the façade systems for The Vale apartments. A prestigious block on Connell Crescent, The Vale was subject to planning guidance that insisted the block remained in-keeping with the more traditional neighboring blocks. The system installed is Licata FireSafe Brick slips. Using a 7mm extruded brick slip the system is one of the lighest systems available on the market. Coupled with class A2 fire performance and a U-value of 0.039W/mK, the apartments not only met all NHBC and local planning design criteria but provides the occupant a safe and energy efficient environment.

Setting an aesthetic benchmark at the heart of the regeneration of London’s Royal Docks, Oasis Academy Silvertown is a new Department for Education school created by architects Rivington Street Studio. The landmark building serves 11-16 year olds and achieves a BREEAM ‘Excellent' rating while its striking appearance owes much to the use of Vandersanden’s Perla bricks.At the heart of an emerging community in West Silvertown, the Oasis Academy is an all-inclusive secondary school for 600 students on a constrained .25-hectare site. Arranged as a multi-storey ‘superblock’, the building incorporates outdoor social space at different levels and a full-sized sports pitch on its roof.The warm white Perla brickwork and large openings relate to the existing and new residential properties and the monumental listed Silo D nearby. The building’s thick external walls are folded to provide a layered façade in response to the elements. A double-height colonnade to the North Woolwich Road acts as a visitor entrance and engenders a civic quality to the building while also allowing for generous pedestrian movement and a deep threshold between the public domain and secure school environment.The site is surrounded by a mix of red brick residential properties, derelict industrial land and vast stretches of master-planned residential and commercial properties. “We wanted the Academy to stand out from this landscape,” explains Éimear Murphy, associate director at Rivington Street Studio. “Vandersanden’s white Perla bricks give the building a monumental quality, highlighting that it’s for the community and is not an apartment block.”Taylor Maxwell, the brick supplier, suggested Vandersanden’s Perla brick for the project. “What we really liked about Perla is that it’s not only a white brick, with no variation in the colour, but it has quite a rustic, handmade texture that gives it a warm feel rather than a shiny and engineered surface finish,” says Murphy. There were various challenges to creating the brickwork details. The sharp angles associated with the brick fins on the side elevations meant there were a lot of brick specials so these were scheduled with plans drawn through the fins at every other course at the different levels. The contractor then cut the bricks to the schedule. This was made possible because the Perla bricks are exactly the same colour all the way through. For the canted reveals of the double-height colonnade to the main elevation, brick slip panels were used. Rivington Street Studio worked with the brick subcontractor to develop a bespoke detail and different mock-ups were trialled. The brick slips are seamless in appearance, matching with the full bricks used elsewhere. The canted reveals to the windows on the south elevation were envisioned through extensive 3D modelling and the Perla bricks again proved highly versatile during construction.To achieve a homogenous feel to the building, the mortar was matched to the brick. From a distance, the structure resembles a white cube but, as you get closer, the surface detail of the mortar joints and brick texture starts appearing. At different times of the day, the building’s appearance changes as patterns of light and shade move across the texture of the bricks. "The Vandersanden bricks are incredibly high quality and the through colour simplified the construction process because the bricks could simply be cut to suit the building’s geometry, enthuses Murphy. “Another important factor was the excellent consistency of the batches as this was essential to achieving the building’s monolithic, one-colour look.” 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' linkProject photography Simon Kennedy & Rachel Ferriman

A new and vibrant housing development in Chelmsford, Essex recently specified a range of bespoke Skyline solutions where ‘inspirational architecture’ is a key element.Beaulieu Park is a charming new district set around New Hall School, which was originally King Henry VIII’s Tudor palace and estate parkland. The concept behind the development was to create a series of individually designed neighbourhoods, which connect to the wider landscape. “This was an exciting project to get involved with as it was an open specification. This also meant that it was important to get this project absolutely correct commercially,” says John Hemphill, Skyline Technical Sales Manager at Alumasc. “Our work at Beaulieu Park, in conjunction with our customer, involved designing and manufacturing a full and comprehensive range of bespoke Skyline aluminium products such as window pods, copings, canopies, fascia and architectural feature cladding and corner post details.”For this unique project, Skyline collaborated with our ‘Recommended Installer’ Specialised Fixings to deliver and design products that were tailored to each individual house type and plot.

Products:Externals: OS221 Orbis Midrail Infill Top FixAtrium: M311 Mono Glass Infill Top FixStairs: M310 Mono Glass Infill Side FixContractor: Galliford Try Construction LtdArchitects: Ryder ArchitectureThe £25m redevelopment of the Greenhead Sixth-Form College Campus was one of the first Net Zero Carbon in Operation school buildings built by the Department for Educations Rebuilding Programme.Galliford Try Construction enlisted Delta to fulfil the requirements of this balustrade and handrail package – totalling 280 metres of balustrade system.With Greenhead College situated within the Greenhead Park Conservation Area and in close proximity to historic buildings, the more traditional tubular Orbis powder coated balustrade with midrail’s was installed to the external steps.Whereas a more sleek, modern aesthetic was decided upon for the atrium and stairs in the form of Delta’s Mono powder coated balustrade with stainless steel handrails and glass infill secured with a bolt-through banjo lug.

The Project £12m investment into a new facility at Dudley College will enable the college to specialise in training people working in construction using brand new/state of the art apprentice standards. On completion of the project, the college have pledged approx. half a million pounds sponsorship into Dudley Academies Trust which will benefit a number of local schools and enable the sharing of resources and expertise. The ChallengeDeliver a package that will inspire the students and present a true representation of the quality and standards expected in the construction industry. Install a full height, flush frontage cubicles system in a warehouse style space with ceiling heights exceeding four meters. Use local trades and services to the Black Country. Offer non-standard products to class-room areas. The SolutionExcelsior Flush 30 Full Height Cubicles installed on 150mm leg with upgraded stainless steel fittings. Complementary Duct panelling installed to house cisterns and associated plumbing work.Manufacture and install Solid Grade Laminate workstations in the classrooms.

Conversion of listed Cotswold coach houseDesign Storey architects are thrilled with the transformation of this curtilage-listed coach house located in a walled garden within a conservation area in a small Cotswold town. The task was to extend the ground floor of the property to create a new boot room and dining room, increase the amount of light into the property and improve connection of the house with the garden. The project proved particularly tricky due to the listed and conservation status which made selection of materials especially sensitive. Having specified Lindab guttering for these reasons and for its longevity and minimal appearance, the architect was assisted with samples so that the client could choose their colour palette on site. They opted for Anthracite Metallic coated finish gutters and downpipes and square hoppers which the architect said, “contributed to the overall quality of the build and visual appearance of the final building”. Following this, Design Storey are using Lindab guttering on a number of further projects including a school extension and a family home, stating that Lindab, “provide a quality range of products to suit a number of solutions.”

The Early Learning Unit (ELU) in Hamilton was relocating to the former Hamilton Grammar School site, which had been demolished the previous year. Axter were brought on board to determine the best type of roof that would provide the greatest benefit to the school and its pupils.ChallengesThis project was originally specified to be a single ply system but, with the school catering for children with special requirements, it was decided that a living roof system would be beneficial to both the staff and pupils, and that single ply would not be suitable.This is when Axter and Procladd became involved in this project and worked together to design a robust waterproofing system that could work with a living roof, and still provide value for money for the Council, whilst delivering the project on time and on budget.SolutionsFollowing discussions, Axter’s Cityflor Reinforced Bitumen Membrane system was specified over a plywood substrate, with an extensive green roof. This project presented some unique challenges, specifically in the need for the use of Flame Free Technology to combustible upstands. Axter and Procladd were both committed to NFRC Safe2Torch standards, with Axter’s Flame Free Neo-Bitumen Technology specified on upstands to remove any risk of fire. The Force 4000 Flame Free system to these areas consisted of a self-adhesive binder, combined with hot air welding technology to seal and bond all laps, to ensure a robust detail without any risk of a naked flame near combustible materials.When asked to comment on using the Neo-Bitumen Flame Free technology, Procladd Operatives Billy and John commented: “The membrane was very easy to work with and a pleasure to install. The self-adhesive membrane adhered incredibly well to the upstand without the need to heat the underside, like a standard torch applied system, which made the installation a quick process. Once completed we heated the side and head laps using a hot air gun, normally associated with Single Ply membrane, to ensure a full bond complete with a 2mm bitumen bead. The system is one of the most straightforward and workable systems that we have used.”Procladd Managing Director Keith Burrell said, “We have worked with Axter on a number of projects and knew, through their commitment to achieving robust waterproofing systems, and their experience within the education sector, that it meant we could work together to complete this project in harmony to give the best service possible to South Lanarkshire Council.The introduction of their Flame Free Neo-Bitumen system to the areas of combustible upstand meant that works could progress quickly on site, whilst maintaining safety and reducing any risk of naked flame near to timber or combustible materials.From start to finish Axter were informative and helpful with initial NBS specifications, detailed drawings and thermal calculations, right through to on site technical guidance and Quality Assessment of the ongoing works and through to completion and Guarantee.”AcknowledgmentsWe have worked with Axter on a number of projects and knew, through their commitment to achieving robust waterproofing systems, and their experience within the education sector, that it meant we could work together to complete this project in harmony to give the best service possible to South Lanarkshire Council.The introduction of their Flame Free Neo-Bitumen system to the areas of combustible upstand meant that works could progress quickly on site, whilst maintaining safety and reducing any risk of naked flame near to timber or combustible materials.From start to finish Axter were informative and helpful with initial NBS specifications, detailed drawings and thermal calculations, right through to on site technical guidance and Quality Assessment of the ongoing works and through to completion and Guarantee.Keith Burrell - Managing Director, Procladd

The main building of the NHL Stenden University in the Netherlands has recently been extended. In addition to a focus on sustainability, the architect wanted to stimulate meetings and bring students and teachers together. In the middle of the central hall you can climb, sit, lie and build with the cube-shaped elements. The long wooden stairs and the walls are partly overgrown with plants and the floor features a beautiful green lawn digitally printed on Flotex Vision.Furthermore, BRTArchitecten has created various meeting places and has given the building it its own landscape. There is an area with a corn field, a tropical rainforest and a delta landscape. These landscapes are all also printed on Flotex Vision and thus form a beautiful focal point in the room. In addition to Flotex Vision,Forbo's Flotex Metro and Marmoleum Real were installed within the University Building.The renovation of the Stenden Hotel Management School was completed in December 2019. A beautiful new campus of 4,500 m2 where Flotex has been chosen thanks to its unique combination of design flexibility, acoustics and ease of cleaning.

Dorset House sits at the heart of Talbot Campus, where most of the undergraduate and postgraduate courses are delivered at Bournemouth University. It is home to the Doctoral College, providing important support to its postgraduate research community with a range of high-tech laboratory equipment, as well as the Business School’s Professional Engagement Suite.Sustainability is a top priority for Bournemouth University. In fact, the University is ranked 21st in the world and 6th in the UK for its contribution to UN Sustainable Goal 13: Climate Action for The Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2023. As well as opening new eco-friendly buildings, Bournemouth University is carrying out major refurbishment works across its campuses, investing in a range of low or zero-carbon technologies to help minimise water and energy use.As part of this refurbishment, Dorset House was to undergo a significant transformation to help enhance the entrance area and make better use of the space. Bluestone Design & Construction Ltd was tasked with upgrading the building’s flat roofing system, in association with IKO, and the build-up include the installation of a new 80kWp solar PV system.

A fine cooperation from our clients - the floor screed specialists at B Doherty Screeding Ltd | Mobile Screed Factory along with baseTherm® Ltd Liquid Floor InsulationProjectDCU Polaris Building | School of Health & Human PerformanceMain ContractorWalls & McKeown Joint Venture Floor Screed PackageB. Doherty Screeding & baseTherm® Joint VentureVoid Former500 m³ baseTherm® 200, supplied and installed by baseTherm®Floor Screed3,500 m² Rapidur® EB5 Floor Screed by ourselves B. Doherty Screeding LtdContact your professional baseTherm® team for efficient, fuss-free, floor insulation results: 🔥📞Philip +353 (0) 87 333 0683📞Eddie +353 (0) 87 223 2456📩 sales@basetherm.comFor stunning floor screed results give B Doherty Floor Screed a call:📞 +353 (0)74 9383654📱 +353 (0)86 6031230📧 info@bdohertyscreeding.com

New air quality sensor provides confidence in operation with its traffic light design It is compact, intuitive and notifies you as soon as the indoor air quality deteriorates: the new air quality sensor CheckAER from SIEGENIA. Reliably and considerably faster than human consciousness, it registers when the indoor air becomes too highly polluted and it is time for it to be exchanged. As well as high CO2 values, this can also be due to total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), which frequently arise as a result of vapours emitted from furniture or cleaning agents. The risk of viruses in the indoor air also increases when there is insufficient ventilation.Easy and intuitive operationEasy and intuitive to programme and operate, CheckAER is the ideal solution for living spaces, schools, kindergartens and office buildings because it can be used free-standing on a table or be mounted on a wall. Programming is done easily and straightforwardly via Plug & Play with the aid of the USB cable included in the delivery, which is also a plus in terms of data security. In addition, it includes an automatic calibration to optimise the sensor accuracy. 

THE PROJECTThe NEW Fusion mailbox is the essence of innovation; this luxury development is in the heart of London and offers the ultimate elegance and style for its’ residents. Mivan Marine LTD approached The Safety Letterbox Company with a specific cutting-edge, design requirement for their mailboxes, SLB managed to interpret that design with such precision, the outcome was extraordinary and truly stunning.The new development on 48 Carey Street located just opposite the Royal Courts of Justice and the Royal School of Surgeons is a 10-storey block consisting of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom luxury apartments with underground parking and leisure facilities.THE PRODUCTSLB created a truly unique, high-end, brand new product for this luxury development in central London. Incorporating multi-point opening, anodised materials, exceptional engraving detail and Italian stone cladding, SLB was delighted to create such a beautiful and visually exciting arrangement, turning the client’s vision into reality.These mailboxes are recessed into the wall with front entry and front retrieval, arranged in 2 banks; the first configuration is 13 high by 10 wide, and the 2nd is 10 high by 10 wide.

A record number of manual call points were maliciously activated across England for the year ending March 2022.The highest annual number of malicious false fire alarms on record came as people returned to public buildings en masse in a period markedly unaffected by COVID-19 lockdowns.The latest Home Office figures reveal there was a total of 3,212 false fire alarms caused by the “malicious activation of [a] fire call point/alarm” in England for the year ending March 2022, surpassing challenged hoax calls as the largest reason for malicious fire alarms.Accidental activations also increased over the period; 14,452 false fire alarms were recorded due to the accidental and careless activation of life safety equipment, including manual call points.Every false alarm is costly, disrupting schools and businesses, placing unnecessary strain on our emergency services and reducing public confidence in fire alarms.Despite online learning, working from home and limits on social contact, false fire alarm numbers, although down, persisted during the pandemic.As schools, offices and shops saw reduced attendance and footfall, malicious false fire alarms survived; now in a post-COVID world, there has been a boom in the number of false alarms plaguing the country.Continuing to be the largest incident type, false fire alarms accounted for 40 per cent of the incidents attended by Fire and Rescue Services in England for the period – fires accounted for just 26 per cent.Repeated false alarms reduce the public’s confidence in fire alarms, contributing to alarm fatigue and a complacent attitude toward evacuations. Alarm fatigue occurs when a person becomes desensitised to an alarm due to repeated false alarms and as a result, fails to react appropriately in an emergency.Safety Technology International manufacture a range of protective covers, specifically designed to prevent false alarms whether accidental or malicious.The STI story began in 1980 with a challenge by a school headteacher who wanted to stop their false fire alarms. Founder, Jack Taylor, used his expertise in security systems to invent the first and original Stopper® polycarbonate protective cover. From integral covers to outdoor and sounder models, there are now variations to suit all applications.The tamper-proof polycarbonate covers ensure call points are protected without restricting legitimate use in a real emergency, a combination of optional warning alarm, flashing beacon and break seal acts as a deterrent against malicious activation.In Wales, malicious false fire alarms rose by 33% to 426 during 2021-22, the highest figure for half a decade. And with similar figures reflected across the UK, over £1 billion is lost every year due to false alarms.To recoup this cost the London Fire Brigade became the first fire service in the country to recover costs from buildings like hospitals, airports and student halls with a poor false alarm record.Firefighters respond to fire signals as if they are real, this exposes the public and fire crew to unnecessary risk in their swift response to false alarms, directing them away from real emergencies.Under The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order Act 2005, it is the responsibility of the building owner or the “responsible person” to ensure effective fire precautions are in place to protect staff, customers or visitors.Several precautionary steps can be implemented to prevent false fire alarms before they occur; routine testing and maintenance of call points is a must to ensure proper operation, but it is not the only proactive approach.As recommended in BS 5839-1:2017, manual call points can be fitted with a protective cover to prevent false fire alarms. The British Standard Institute recommends in section 20.2b), that: “All MCPs should be fitted with a protective cover, which is moved to gain access to the frangible element.“It is now recommended that a protective cover is fitted to a Type A manual call point to help prevent false alarms.”

The St Helen & St Katharine Sixth Form Centre is a state-of-the-art education facility that required the use of precast elements both internally and externally to meet its design requirements.The architects, TSH Architects, collaborated with the contractors and Amber Valley Stone to ensure that the precast units met the design specifications and were manufactured and installed with the utmost precision.Challenge:The challenge for Amber Valley Stone was to manufacture and supply high-quality precast units that would meet the strict design requirements of the St Helen & St Katharine Sixth Form Centre.The precast elements needed to be robust and of high quality, with clean and consistent finished faces and corners. The project also required a special colour, which was achieved through a special blend of aggregates, pigments and the use of a medium etch finish.“I am happy to confirm that Amber Valley Stone has provided a professional and helpful service throughout the design, manufacture, and construction of the precast units for the recently completed Sixth Form Centre at St Helen and St Katharine School, Abingdon.”.John Dymock – Benfield and LoxleyRead more on our website

The Bourne Academy, Bournemouth was to undergo a £10 million renevation, a project that would include many newly constructed areas. The building was dreary and outdated, and to create an aspirational environment, to inspire students to achieve, it was necessary to greatly improve the facilities. The main part of the brief was to cover an area surrounded by 3 buildings with a tensile canopy. Curtain walling was required to the open side, along with fabric side sheets incorporating clear windows and a printed logo of the school.Broxap Ltd was successful in tendering to supply a range of its products throughout the Academy.Working with its designers, the client and the architect, Broxap developed a suitable scheme.Products included several Newcastle Senior mono-pitched covered walkways and Newcastle Senior symmetric walkways.The Keep It Kool division of Broxap provided four Cairns perimeter beam waterproof shade sails, a barrel vault entrance canopy and a large bespoke waterproof tensile canopy. The bespoke canopy spans an enclosed central eating and socialising area, which is laid with artificial grass.Other products supplied were Wardale cycle shelters, Wardale cycle compounds, picnic units, seating, barriers and planters.