"silencers and acoustic treatment"

Located on the former BBC site, Circle Square in Manchester aims to create a vibrant neighbourhood comprising city living apartments, prime office, retail and leisure space. Phase two of the development saw the construction of No’s 5 to 8, four buildings totalling 677 luxury flats with private dining, resident lounge, gym and cinema, as well as commercial space. Specification requirements FK Group were appointed to design and install a bespoke façade solution which meant they were responsible for specifying the insulation. There were three main performance factors that needed to be considered.  Firstly, the insulation had to be non-combustible to ensure compliance with building regulations in England and Wales, which ban the use of combustible materials on the external walls of certain buildings over 18m tall.  The second consideration was thermal performance. “When you’re designing a bespoke façade solution, accurate thermal modelling is essential because there are so many variables that can affect its energy efficiency,” explained Ben Hufton, Associate Design Director of FK Group. “One of the reasons we work with Knauf Insulation so much is because of their technical support. They always conduct 3D U-value calculations for rainscreen façade projects, so we know the insulation will deliver the performance we need to achieve.” This enhanced level of accuracy is one of the main benefits of 3D U-value calculations over other calculation methods, because it ensures a building’s real world thermal performance matches its initial design.  To achieve the required U-value of 0.28 W/m2K, the Knauf Insulation Technical Support Team recommended 200mm Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab for the external cavity. This has a thermal conductivity of just 0.034W/mK. Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab is manufactured from Rock Mineral Wool and is BBA certified for use in high rise buildings for the broadest range of build-ups of any rainscreen solution on the market. It is also non-combustible with the best possible Euroclass A1 reaction to fire classification. This means it will not contribute to the development or spread of fire should it occur. The final specification factor was acoustic performance due to the site’s busy city centre location.  FK Group conducted offsite acoustic tests to ensure that the build-up met the requirements of Approved Document E. The Mineral Wool insulation contributes significantly to the acoustic performance of the build-up thanks to its open structure. Sound waves are trapped between the individual strands of Mineral Wool and turned into heat energy. This will help to reduce noise from surrounding roads, ensuring residents can enjoy peaceful homes. Other performance factors As it has been developed for external applications, Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab contains a water repellent additive which is combined with a fibre matrix that promotes run-off. This ensures it can resist moisture ingress whilst maintaining its excellent vapour permeability. The physical characteristics of the fibres are unaltered if they get wet. Therefore, the thermal properties of Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab are not affected by exposure to moisture and the product will perform as expected once it has dried out. The product is easy to install correctly thanks to superior robustness and durability, allowing it to be manoeuvred easily into place. Its natural flexibility means it adapts to minor imperfections in the substrate, while slabs interlock, eliminating air leakage that could reduce thermal and acoustic performance. Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab is also manufactured with ECOSE® Technology, Knauf Insulation’s unique bio-based binder that contains no added formaldehyde or phenol. It is made from natural raw materials that are rapidly renewable, and is 70% less energy-intensive to manufacture than traditional binder, so it is more environmentally-friendly. Products made with ECOSE® Technology generate low levels of dust and VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and have been awarded Eurofins Indoor Air Comfort (Gold) certification. Circle Square will give residents access to everything they need from a community district – just as Knauf Insulation’s Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab ticked all the boxes for FK Group.

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

Radii joined the fit-out for this asset management company’s new European headquarters in mid-2022, working for approximately 20 weeks to deliver our high-end commercial solutions for 179 offices and meeting spaces across Levels 1 to 4 of the 88,000 sq ft site.Curved double glazed Parallel 50 (45dB Rw) partitions were manufactured and installed by Radii for a number of meeting rooms fronts, while single glazed Linear 25 (41 dB Rw) and double glazed Parallel 100 (50dB Rw) were also deployed to match the variety of acoustic requirements. Mesh glass was used in places on Levels 2 to 4 to provide extra privacy around reception and lounge areas respectively.Partitions were complemented with smoked dark European oak timber veneered doors throughout the space.

“From the materials used throughout the build process to how it’s powered, along with creating new areas of natural habitat to enhance the biodiversity of the site and local area, we’re bringing together skills and expertise from across McDonald’s and the partners we work with. From 2023 furniture and construction materials in new and refurbished restaurants will be made with recycled or certified materials and designed to be recycled or reused at end of life ”Construction Director, McDonald’s UK & Ireland The Absorb-R ToughSound acoustic-panels are environment friendly, fully recyclable natural components that offer optimal sound absorption and extensive resistance to fire. Surface applications include ceiling and wall mounting.Absorb-R ToughSound is a high performing high impact sound absorbing wood wool system, concept with excellent eco credentials which store heat from the ambient air.

Products from F. Ball have been used to create a hygienic flooring finish as part of a refurbishment at The Doctors Laboratory, in Salford, Manchester.Flooring contractors used Stopgap Fill and Prime 700 Superflex flexible levelling compound to prepare 1500m² of metal raised access panels before installing vinyl sheet floorcoverings and coving. Once the primer had cured, Stopgap 700 Superflex flexible levelling compound was applied to create a perfectly smooth finish for the receipt of floorcoverings. With the subfloor preparation complete, the flooring contractors could install Tarkett IQ Granit Acoustic Vinyl sheet throughout the entire area using Styccobond F46 pressure sensitive acrylic adhesive which possesses a high initial tack, making it ideal for the installing of floorcoverings over larger areas. Finally, the contractors used Styccobond F66 contact adhesive to install PVC coving. 

Bream Street is a mixed-use development of seven buildings, including 202 modern 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, retail, employment and leisure spaces. Overlooking the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, this development includes 30% affordable housing. The scheme consists of demolishing a post-war commercial building to deliver a series of buildings set around three shared gardens within walking distance to Hackney Wick Overground station.Cellecta’s ScreedBoard 20 was specified by Allford Hall Monaghan Morris due to it being the ideal overlay floorboard for acoustic applications. ScreedBoard 20 was laid upon the first floor over PIR to achieve U Values, as the build could not accept a wet screed due to weight restrictions upon the ground.L&Q were awarded this 5,500m² contract to construct this development in Fish Village within Bow.

Lucent House is a redevelopment scheme of nine residential flats ranging from one, two and three bedrooms with a commercial unit on the ground floor. This six-floor development with a penthouse occupying the top level, offers private balconies or terraces to all apartments. Each home is built with natural light and space at the heart of the design, the name Lucent was chosen to reflect this central theme. Offering access to the city via convenient transport links, the abundance of greenery is overwhelming.Cellecta Gobi G2-25 was specified by Manor Architects due to it being the ideal solution to level an uneven concrete separating floor and provide all the benefits an underfloor heating system can deliver, with the added advantages of rapid heat transfer capabilities and outstanding acoustic performance.Goldrose Sharpe Developments was supplied 1,000m² of Cellecta products to develop these flats in Stoke Newington in Hackney.

Crossway Quarter is a development of flats situated 5 minutes from Bluewater Shopping Centre and near the M25. The scheme comprises of the demolition of existing buildings and the construction of 258 flats comprising of market housing - 52 one, 201 two, 5 three bedroom flats with associated parking, cycle storage, landscaping and amenity space. These 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments will appeal to investors, first-time buyers and professionals working in the capital and surrounding areas.Cellecta’s YELOfon HD10+ was specified by RM_A Architects and Shepherd Angelo Architecture due to its unrivalled acoustic performance in isolating a floating screed from a structural concrete floor. This product is lightweight making it easy to install. YELOfon HD10+ is also delivered in rolls to ensure it’s easy to handle.Bellway London was awarded this 25,000m² contract for this Robust Detail Registered Site in Kent.

Nerrols is a primary and nursery school which is part of the Richard Huish Trust located in Taunton. Opened in September 2019, Nerrols includes facilities such as 14 classrooms, main hall, kitchen, science and technology room, sports hall library, food technology room and a 3G sports pitch. Built to support a new residential development being constructed, the two-story building school provides 420 places for 4 to 11 year olds and 26 nursery places, with modern colour render above, and features a generous canopy over the main entrance.Cellecta’s Mojave S1-8 was specified due to it being a lightweight option for an acoustic composite floor build up. This system has a low energy use, reducing running costs and co2 emissions, which benefits the environment.Willmott Dixon was awarded this 1,000m² contract by Somerset County Council to construct this development in Somerset.

Auriens is a luxury retirement home for people over the age of 65 that provides 56 high-end one and two-bedroom apartments alongside health and leisure facilities. Echoing the classical Georgian architecture of the area, the build is subtly future proofed with on-site private healthcare and high-spec wellness amenities. These include a pool, spa, personal trainer, salon, speakeasy bar, cinema, top restaurant, sunken garden, and a library.Cellecta’s HiDECK Overlay 18 was specified by Studio PDP as the overlay flooring solution. It’s ideal for flooring applications incorporating an underflooring heating system due to its high thermal conductivity which provides rapid reaction times, saving on running costs. In addition, its high density makes it perfect for a variety of acoustic applications.Multiplex was awarded this 10,000m² contract to construct this retirement home on Dovehouse Street, Chelsea.

Alexandra House, a former health clinic, delivers 16 affordable, high-quality homes meeting low energy and dependable living standards. Comprising of 9 two bedroom flats which front the main junction of Northern Parade and Doyle Avenue, adjacent are 4 three bedroom houses and 3 Dependable living houses. This development is Portsmouth City Council’s most energy efficient scheme, utilising an all-electric set up, sourced from a number of PV Panels within the development.Cellecta’s ScreedBoard 28 was specified by HGP Architects due to it being suitable for all floor types and is frequently viewed as the solution of choice for new build and refurbishment developments. Its interlocking edges for installation convenience, high density, and unique resilient layer provides unrivalled acoustic performance.PMC Construction were supplied 482m² of Cellecta products for this development in Hilsea, Portsmouth.

The Pavilions comprise of seven residential buildings alongside the railway, providing a mix of 156 one, two and three bedroom sustainable homes with 35% affordable housing. As a site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC), this 'Development of the Year’ maximises the residential capacity without compromising the nature conservation designation. This is achieved by incorporating an educational nature trail and bird hide, with generous open spaces planted with trees, green roofs to encourage biodiversity, and solar panels. Cellecta’s ScreedBoard 20 was specified by Jestico + Whiles as it is a dry light weight Robust Detail solution compatible with Metec System LGS system, and the ideal overlay floorboard for acoustic application incorporating underfloor heating applications due to its high thermal conductivity. This enables the system to run more efficiently, saving on running costs and improving reaction times.Telford Homes was awarded this 14,350m² contract for this development at Caledonian Road in Islington.

The Gresham Aparthotel is a luxurious refurbishment of the old Fenwicks Store into 121 one and two bed apartments and studios, spread over four floors. There is also a rooftop bar and a gym featured in the hotel. Rooms can be accessed via a lift or via the staircase - which is the original staircase and includes all the original handrails and balustrades. The iconic building was created in the 1800s by local architect Isaac Barradale for Joseph Johnsons, a local draper. In 1962, it was taken over by retailer Fenwick, which occupied the site until its closure in March 2017.Cellecta’s ScreedBoard 28 was specified by RG+P Architects due to its unrivalled acoustic performance and its installation convenience due to interlocking edges. ScreedBoard 28 is frequently viewed as the solution of choice for new build and refurbishment developments.Cube Construction was awarded this 2,000m² contract to construct this refurbishment in Leicester.

New Stratford Works is a collection of 154 homes featuring one, two and three-bedroom apartments and three and four-bedroom Garden and Sky Villas. Providing private, affordable rent and shared ownership properties, along with two commercial spaces and a linear park which forms the central spine of the development, fronting onto the new woodland designed Linear Park. This development forms part of the major post-Olympic regeneration masterplan for the London Borough of Newham, with Elizabeth Line that gives access to central London within 45 minutes.Cellecta’s ScreedBoard 20 was specified by PRP as it is the ideal overlay floorboard for acoustic application incorporating underfloor heating applications due to its low thermal resistance enables the system to run more efficiently, saving on running costs and improving reaction times.Higgins Homes was awarded this 14,000m² contract for this development in London.

Fowey Hall is a hotel located within a mansion on 5 acres of grounds overlooking the Fowey Estuary. The hotel is a 5-minute walk from Fowey town centre and 8 miles from the Eden Project. The scheme comprises of a refurbishment, reconfiguration and extension of the existing four-star family hotel including rooftop extensions, this provides enhanced facilities including additional guestrooms, new creche and children's playroom, lounge area, and outdoor swimming pool with pavilion. Landscaping works, additional parking, and associated infrastructure. This project also includes associated infrastructure works and access roads.Cellecta’s HiDECK Structural 25 was specified by Jeremy Blake Architects due to it being a conductive structural floorboard and having outstanding acoustic and fire performance and low thermal resistance.Brady Construction Services was awarded this 320m² contract for this development in Cornwall.

Spring Boroughs is a development of 34 new affordable homes, comprising of 2 and 3 bed houses and a retail unit. Originally a scheme comprising of 18 homes off Little Cross Street, this development went under a full review to secure more sites and increase the development, including the relocation of a retail unit. Significant social value was created as part of the development, as it provided the community with much needed affordable housing.Cellecta’s ScreedBoard 28 was specified by Northampton Partnership Homes due to the high sound reduction performance and low floor levels. As it’s suitable for all floor types, it is frequently viewed as the solution of choice for new build and refurbishment developments. Its interlocking edges for installation convenience, high density, and unique resilient layer provides unrivalled acoustic performance.Willmott Dixon was supplied 600m² of Cellecta products to develop these flats in Northampton.

Shard Place is a 26 story residential development housing 176 apartments from studios to three bedrooms and the third building in Renzo Piano’s Shard Quarter. Situated between St. Thomas Street and London Bridge Street and adjacent to The Shard, Shard Place was previously Fielden House before demolition. Shard Place is one of London’s most central and connected residences, a 28-minute train ride from Gatwick international airport and a short stroll to London’s South Bank. It encompasses five-star amenities, including a rooftop pool, fitness suite, cinema room and private roof garden.Cellecta’s HiDECK Structural 28 was specified by Renzo Piano Building Workshop due to to it being a conductive structural floorboard and having outstanding acoustic and fire performance and low thermal resistance.Mace was awarded this 12,000m² contract for this development in London.

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

Sandy Park is a four-star Courtyard by Marriott Hotel. At nine-storeys, the L-shaped hotel will feature leisure facilities on the ground floor and a restaurant on the top floor. The development comprised of the demolition of a bungalow to construct a 250 bedroom hotel, which has access to the existing Sandy Park rugby club stadium complex via a footbridge. The new hotel site is situated alongside the M5 to the south of the main stadium car park adjacent to Old Rydon Lane.Cellecta’s HiDECK Overlay 18 was specified by Sigmat in this project as the overlay flooring solution. It’s ideal for flooring applications incorporating an underflooring heating system due to its high thermal conductivity which provides rapid reaction times, saving on running costs. In addition, its high density makes it perfect for a variety of acoustic applications.DNA Integrated Construction was awarded this 24,000m² contract to construct this development in Exeter.

Pear Tree Court is a stunning care home in Waterlooville, Hampshire, which offers a range of care in beautiful surroundings. This care home has the latest in luxury facilities, a café, hair salon, gardens, cinema, its own pub, and 72 en-suite bedrooms over three floors. The home is divided into smaller suites, each with its own lounge, dining room and TV lounge and every bedroom is beautifully decorated and furnished.Cellecta’s ScreedBoard 28 was specified due to it being an award winning 100% recycled, reinforced, non-combustible, calcium sulphate floorboard, ideal for a multitude of new build and refurbishment applications. ScreedBoard 28 was chosen in this project due to its outstanding acoustic performance, ideal for a busy care home!CastleOak Care Partnerships were awarded this 2,376m² contract to construct this care home.

Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys is one of three secondary schools in the Tunbridge Wells area. The school has been extended and modernized to offer further school places to the local community. The expansion includes a new a three-storey satellite facility that houses general teaching classrooms, ICT and food technology spaces, and a five-court sports hall. An expanded dining room has also been created through the refurbishment of the existing sports hall.Cellecta’s YELOfon HD10+ was specified by Bond Bryan Architects due to its unrivalled acoustic performance in isolating a floating screed from a structural concrete floor. This product is lightweight making it easy to install. YELOfon HD10+ is also delivered in rolls to ensure it’s easy to handle.Willmott Dixon were awarded this 7,950m² contract to construct this latest school project in Sevenoaks.

The Old Sorting Office is a development comprising of 83 one and two bedroom studio apartments located in the heart of Bournemouth. Spanning over six floors, with two retail units on the ground floor, this scheme fills the gap between the surrounding buildings and repairs the grain of development on Albert Road. Design using a Traditional, Contemporary style, this development is in close proximity to an array of various local restaurants, pubs and shops.Cellecta’s ScreedBoard 28 was specified by ARC Architecture due to the high sound reduction performance and low floor levels. As it’s suitable for all floor types, it is frequently viewed as the solution of choice for new build and refurbishment developments. Its interlocking edges for installation convenience, high density, and unique resilient layer provides unrivalled acoustic performance.Herbert H Drew was supplied 2,800m² of Cellecta products for this development in Bournemouth.

Sheldon Court is a development comprising of 64 affordable 1 and 2 bedroom apartments. All apartments have a modern finish that delivers light-filled living spaces with an eye-catching, bold, architectural window-lined façade. With good public transport to Birmingham airport and city centre. The apartments also have 60 parking spaces some of which have electric charging points for electric vehicles.Cellecta’s HiDECK Acoustic Overlay 28 was specified by Elevate Property Group due to its high sound reduction performance, protecting sound in gym areas and entertainment areas getting into guest rooms. This highly conductive structural floorboard has rapid heat transfer characteristics, enabling a more efficient underfloor heating system.Centrick Property was awarded this 3,500m² contract to construct this development in East Birmingham.

The Wharf consists of 200 one, two, or three bedroom social housing apartments, with some featuring balconies and Juliet balconies. Alongside this development, a shop and a coffee shop are located on the ground floor, along with parking and bike racks. The site was formally known as The Wharf pub, which was demolished in 2016. Permission was granted for signs reading ‘The Wharf’ to be installed on some of the blocks of flats, which have been split into different blocks around the site, varying between three and seven storeys.Cellecta’s ScreedBoard 28 was specified by Morgan2Morgan Architects due to it being suitable for all floor types and is frequently viewed as the solution of choice for new build and refurbishment developments. Its interlocking edges for installation convenience, high density, and unique resilient layer provides unrivalled acoustic performance.Willis Construction was awarded this 5,000m² contract for this development in Cardiff Bay.

Calderdale Council recently embarked on an extensive refurbishment project of the ballroom in the Grade I listed Todmorden Town Hall, which completely refreshed the interior using specialist redecoration services and colour insights from Crown Paints.The 19th century building, which includes a ballroom with ornate ceiling features and plasterwork, has been home to a variety of events over its long history. The Council’s £120,000 investment into the ballroom included improvements to the acoustics and a redecoration project that aimed to refresh the building while being sympathetic to its rich history.As part of the works, Crown Paints’ colour consultancy team devised a new colour scheme for the ballroom with a rich blue called Jet Stream and Victoria White with red and yellow accent colours. It is based on the hues and tones of the original Minton tiles which were hidden beneath the ballroom’s wallpaper and rediscovered before work began.

The centrepiece of the building at 80 Fenchurch Street is a stunning glass atrium that spans the entire length of the core structure, flooding the lower floors with natural light and providing a breath-taking arrival experience when entering the building’s lobby.Radii AG were commissioned to utilize their intricate knowledge of glass to produce a dynamic, multi-storey frameless glazed atrium that matched the ambitious design intent.An additional consideration was for the atrium to accommodate the stepped, angular elevation changes due to the terraced roof gardens on the top five levels.The finished atrium at EightyFen epitomises Radii AG’s core philosophy of extracting the full capabilities of glass as a building material.Structural, acoustic and fire rated performance all formed a part of the finished installation, allowing Radii AG to provide a bespoke, technical solution alongside dramatic visual aesthetics.

The Oak Cancer Centre at The Royal Marsden’s Sutton site is a state-of-the-art research and treatment facility, designed to bring the hospital’s 400-strong research team and its clinical care facility together under one roof. Specialist brickwork contractors, Lesterose Builders, were appointed by main contractor ISG to design and build the 2,800m2 masonry façade. As a result, they were responsible for ensuring the façade complied with the relevant thermal and fire safety regulations. The time and cost challenge The architect’s specification named a rock mineral wool product, but when Sam O’Keefe, Commercial Manager at Lesterose Builders, tried to place the order, there were two problems. He explained: “The first issue was availability – there was an eight to ten week lead time due to materials shortages. And the second issue was cost. We discovered the original insulation manufacturer had two planned price increases, and the extended lead time and phased delivery schedule meant that the Oak Cancer Centre project would be hit by both.” These two issues would not only delay the build, but would push it significantly over budget. So Lesterose Builders needed another insulation solution. Meeting the specification Lesterose Builders turned to Knauf Insulation, a fellow member of the Association of Brickwork Contractors (ABC). Knauf Insulation’s sales team looked at the specification and was able to offer an equivalent – 200mm Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab.  Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab is a rock mineral wool insulation product with a thermal conductivity of just 0.034W/mK, which meant it would meet the U-value of 0.21W/m2K. It is also non-combustible with Euroclass A1 reaction to fire classification, which means it will not contribute to the development or spread of fire should it occur. It is British Board of Agrément (BBA) certified for masonry façades at any height as well as for the broadest range of build-ups of any rainscreen solution on the market. This meant Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab was suitable for use in the Oak Cancer Centre because it complies with building regulations that ban the use of combustible materials in the walls of relevant buildings over 18m tall. In addition to fire safety and thermal performance, Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab offers excellent sound reduction characteristics. Crucially, Knauf Insulation was able to meet both the schedule and cost parameters for the project. “Once we had confirmation that Knauf Insulation could match the specification and deliver to the planned timescales and budget, it was then a case of getting the architect’s approval. This went extremely smoothly. We just made a technical submittal with the datasheets and environmental product declaration (EPD) and Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab was approved for use without any queries.” Ease of installation The seven-full loads of insulation were purchased through Parker Building Supplies. These were delivered to the site in eight phases in line with the schedule of works. The product is designed to be easy to install correctly. Superior robustness and durability mean it can be manoeuvred easily into place. And unlike some competitor products, it can be installed with either face of the slab against the substrate, speeding up installation and preventing incorrect installation. Furthermore, the natural flexibility of rock mineral wool means it adapts to minor imperfections in the substrate, while slabs knit together when tightly butted, eliminating air leakage that could reduce thermal and acoustic performance. Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab is also manufactured with ECOSE® Technology, Knauf Insulation’s unique bio-based binder that contains no added formaldehyde or phenol. It is made from natural raw materials that are rapidly renewable, and is 70% less energy-intensive to manufacture than traditional binders, so it is more environmentally friendly. Products made with ECOSE® Technology generate low levels of dust and VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and have been awarded Eurofins Indoor Air Comfort (Gold) certification. Construction work is known for its challenges, particularly around budgets and schedules – but thanks to Knauf Insulation’s Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab, Lesterose Builders was able to overcome both these issues and meet the required specification factors for the Oak Cancer Centre. 

Premium acoustics are a quintessential part of any modern-day theater or performance space. Noise coming in from other rooms or even from outside can disturb live performances.In ‘s-Hertogenbosch, the Netherlands, construction of the new performing arts theater is well underway. Planned to open in the second half of 2023, ‘Theater aan de Parade’ will house 2 multifunctional halls, each with its own atmosphere and programming. The different spaces are all connected by spacious foyers, with plenty of natural light and views of the Parade, the main town square.The new theater is designed to invite passersby to come in, enjoy one of the many performances or simply hang out and relax.The solution selected to acoustically decouple the multifunctional hall, one of the 2 main halls of the building, from the rest of the theater, was a complete box-in-box construction, using a Stravifloor Jackup-R floating floor system.The total hall surface area is about 543 m², divided over three zones. An impressive 272 boxes were installed. Boxes were installed with 2 different types of springs combined in three different configurations. The overall span between the boxes in this project is around 1,4 to 2 m.The added value of a jack-up system in this specific project was that despite the loads not being homogeneously distributed across the entire surface, it is possible to create a stiff concrete slab with a homogeneous thickness before to place it on springs.A jack-up system allows for better control of the slab level across all construction phases, concrete slab thickness, and the final deflection of each bearing, different in number, type and tributary area.The entire installation process was spread across two phases, the installation of the boxes together with the insulation material and PE-foil which took less than one week, and the second phase in which we were jacking up the boxes until the entire floor was raised to the desired level. This last step took 4 days, including cleaning and preparing the area for the next intervening parties.

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.

Lewis Deck was chosen, on this particular project in London, for a number of the key benefits the system brings. These being the strength of the system with only needing a thin concrete screed on top, the acoustic qualities & vibration control properties and the speed an ease of installation. This project even requested much longer sheets than standard in an effort to speed up the installation process. In fact you can see from the main photo above that some of the sheets were extremely long. The longest being just over 6.5m.This project was the installation of a new suspended, loadbearing concrete floor above an existing floor below. The space being used as a plant room for the hospital. The Lewis Deck was installed over a suspended steel grid of Light Gauge Steel C-section joists. A thin concrete was then installed over the top.This was a quick installation with the Lewis Deck being installed and then used as a safe working deck ahead of the screed being pumped in.

Laindon Place is a mixed-use regeneration project of a shopping centre, supermarket, retail spaces, commercial units, cafes, and 224 residential homes. This centre is set out to rejuvenate the Laindon High Street by providing an expanded NHS health centre building and improved landscaping around Laindon’s historic war memorial.Cellecta HiDECK Overlay 18 was specified by C.F. Møller Architects in collaboration with Pollard Thomas Edwards in this project as the overlay flooring solution. It’s ideal for flooring applications incorporating an underflooring heating system due to its high thermal conductivity which provides rapid reaction times, saving on running costs. In addition, its high density makes it perfect for a variety of acoustic applications. Our involvement in this project has been providing the underfloor heating solution for a number of these homes.Swan Housing Association and Sanctuary were awarded this 2,000m² contract to construct this development in Essex.

Lucy Cavendish is the fastest growing and most diverse college in Cambridge. The development consists of a refurbishment of most of the college’s buildings into 72 eco-friendly ensuite bedrooms as well as co-accessible and fully accessible rooms for wheelchair users. The student accommodation block is a part three-storey, part four-storey structure arranged in two connecting wings, a café and bar area and informal learning and collaboration spaces have also been provided. The college achieved The David Mackay Award for Engineering and Sustainability, Best New Building over £2m, and The Contractor Award.Cellecta’s ScreedBoard 20 was specified by R H Partnership Architects as it is the ideal overlay floorboard for acoustic application incorporating underfloor heating applications due to its high thermal conductivity. This enables the system to run more efficiently, saving on running costs and improving reaction times.SDC was awarded this 305m² contract to construct this refurbishment in Cambridge.

Regency Apartments is a redevelopment of a car park into 61 affordable one and two bedroom flats for rent and shared ownership. These apartments combine classic and modern features; these include secured video entry and a key fob system, with a Communal Courtyard providing outdoor space for residents. Situated near Chelmsford Centre, Regency Apartments offer affordable, modern living with open-plan spaces, with Bond Street's amenities, high street shops, and the Riverside Leisure Centre nearby. Quick commuting to Central London, Colchester, and Romford in 30 minutes; Stansted and Southend airports within 35 minutes.Cellecta’s YELOfon HD10+ was specified by Arcady Architects due to its unrivalled acoustic performance in isolating a floating screed from a structural concrete floor. This product is lightweight, making it easy to install. YELOfon HD10+ is also delivered in rolls to ensure it’s easy to handle.Stonebond and Home Group were supplied 300m² of Cellecta products to develop these apartments in Chelmsford.

Maybrey Works is a collection of contemporary 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments. Located on Worsley Bridge Road, this scheme comprises demolition of buildings and comprehensive redevelopment of the site to provide new buildings ranging from five to nine stories in height comprising 160 residential units. Close to local amenities and situated just a short walk from the nearest train station for travel to central London and the city, Maybrey Works also offers a work hub, which is open to all residents.Cellecta’s YELOfon HD10+ was specified by Stockwool due to the system being lightweight, easy to install, and delivers unrivalled acoustic performance when used to isolate a floating screed from a structural concrete floor. YELOfon HD10+ is an acclaimed resilient layer system that carries 3 proprietary Robust Details: E-FC-5, 17 & 18.Bellway was awarded this 7,950m² contract for this development in South London.

Wick Lane is a scheme composed of six distinct buildings, including light industrial units, retail, and workspace areas, and 175 homes. It has been built in an existing vibrant neighbourhood, characterised by Victorian warehouse buildings with a mixture of industrial, creative, and residential spaces. These six buildings work together to form a new community that is an authentic piece of Hackney Wick. These apartments consist of a selection of one, two, and three bedroom homes. A variety of employment spaces activate and enliven the main street whilst freestanding double-height industrial units are combined with a variety of one, two or three-storey commercial units.Cellecta’s YELOfon HD5 was specified by dRMM due to its excellent acoustic properties specifically designed to reduce impact noise through the concrete floors with a floating screed. It is a lightweight, easy to install non-crosslinked polyethylene foam.Taylor Wimpey was awarded this 15,000m² contract to construct this development.

Wisteria Lodge is a collection of 6 well-appointed apartments, some with a balcony or alternatively private garden, situated in a convenient central location close to Broadstone’s shops and amenities in the popular Ridgeway. The apartments benefit from numerous features including open plan living with bespoke kitchen and quartz worktops, solid internal doors, underfloor heating, air source heat pump for efficient home energy and master bedroom with en-suite shower room. Included with a communal lift, communal bike store and landscaped gardens and 1 allocated car parking space, future proofed with provision for electric charging points.Cellecta’s Mojave S1-8 was specified due to it being a lightweight option for an acoustic composite floor build up. This system has a low energy use, reducing running costs and CO₂ emissions, which benefits the environment.Harry J Palmer was supplied 536m² of Cellecta products for this development in Broadstone.