"architectural salvage"

The National Automotive Innovation Centre (NAIC) is a partnershipbetween Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG), at the Universityof Warwick, Jaguar Land Rover and Tata Motors UK. Based in theProfessor Lord Bhattacharyya Building, at the University of Warwick,the Centre is the largest automotive research facility of its kind inEurope.Cullinan Studios were appointed as architects to create a buildingthat would take inspiration from the natural world, while alsooperating as a cutting-edge, collaborative automotive research anddevelopment space. Allgood was brought into the project with abrief to complement the high-quality interior with stylish and durablearchitectural ironmongery and hardware.From the design phase, Allgood worked with the architects tostrike the balance between aesthetics and function. To meet thesedemands, Modric was specified throughout. With its timeless,elegant design, and crafted from premium solid grade 316 stainlesssteel, Modric provided the style and substance required. The rangealso comes with an industry-leading 25-year mechanical warranty forfurther reassurance.Three hundred Modric lever handles and over one hundred Modepull handles were fitted throughout the building. Allgood Securealso designed and installed a complete access control and doorautomation system, ensuring a secure, efficient, and practicalworkplace.

In a stunning architectural statement, CUPA PIZARRAS R17 slate has been specified to meet the design challenges of a former Georgian windmill renovation at Fort Green, near Aldeburgh in Suffolk. The first project of its kind in the UK, the natural slate was individually cut and fixed through expert craftsmanship to accommodate the building’s exterior curve while also providing crucial protection from the harsh coastal environment. Originally, the windmill walls were going to be clad in cedar shingles however, contractor ELC Roofing recommended using the rectangular CUPA R17 slate from CUPA PIZARRAS as a more weather-resistant alternative. ELC Roofing Owner, Edward Carlo, explains: “The R17 is a natural, non-carbonated blue-black slate with non-rusting metallic particles and thin laminations. From our perspective, it’s a tried and tested product that we specify and install on a lot of our projects – especially in coastal situations like this.” The slates, which protect against the salt water and wind, have been fitted on both the windmill’s curved wall, its pitched roof and elsewhere adding design details to the property’s walls. He goes on to say: “Aesthetically, the ocean environment has inspired the material choice with the slate mirroring the scales of a fish. This gives the windmill a dramatic architectural style; one that also sympathetically ties into the slate roof of the neighbouring cottage, which we replaced with CUPA R17 the previous year. “As far as I am aware, nothing like this windmill has been done in the UK. It was a case of starting from scratch to devise the optimum installation method, which involved a lot of detailed calculations.” For the tower, which has a 15m circumference at the base tapering to 11m at the top, the team initially removed the thick render on the windmill wall, taking it back to the original brickwork. Next, to meet the challenge of the curve and tapering of the wall, 50mm counter battens were fitted to the tower’s brickwork. Then, multiple strips of ply were cut and glued together to create the curve. These panels were screwed to the counter battens to provide an anchor for the fixing system. The ply was also primed to protect the surface from water ingress and a breathable membrane applied to protect the brickwork. In terms of fixing the slates to the panels, Edward said: “For a more corrosion and wind-resistant solution, I decided on the French technique of a stainless steel hook fixing system to install the slate, as opposed to nails.” Ensuring the layout worked exactly with the curves, the slate was lasered from top to bottom to perk it out, which took five days to do. Horizontal tiling battens were also marked to ensure the slates were fixed at the right height. Every single slate was cut and fixed individually to accommodate the curve and ensure they aligned with the building’s inset windows as well as other architectural details - a very precise process that required expert levels of craftsmanship. Preventing the slates from getting smaller at height, the team designed-in a series of lead bands that go all around the building at each storey level. These sit underneath the windows to create a consistent appearance visually. The windmill’s domed copper roof existed already and the adjoining tower, which is horizontally clad in a white weatherboard, features a slated pitched roof. ELC Roofing has again used CUPA PIZARRAS spanish slates. In this instance, the roof curves to the back end with four leaded hips to one end and two to the other with a connecting lead ridge. This time the slates were fitted to 20 x 50mm battens with a layer of permeable membrane. This part of the roof also features a striking onion-shaped finial. Expertly crafted by ELC Roofing, the finial is produced out of a patchwork of small pieces of soft copper, topped off with a fish that acts as a weather vane and includes stunning marble eyes. To the other side of the clad tower, CUPA PIZARRAS slate has been used to create a vertical square panel detail to the front of the building and fixed using the hook system again. Commenting on this challenging project, Edward said: “Work on site started before the first Covid-19 lockdown so as well as the challenging weather conditions that a coastal location like this presents, the team also had to complete the work with government guidance and restrictions in place. Regardless, the client is overwhelmed with the end result and so are we.” To find out more about the CUPA PIZARRAS range of natural slate visit: https://www.cupapizarras.com/uk/natural-slate-roofing/

Client: Basra Sports City, Iraq Project Design: 360-Architecture Structural Engineering: Thornton Tomasetti Main Products Used: EMSEAL SJS SystemThis spectacular 65,000-seat, combined FIFA and Olympic event compliant stadium in the City of Basra, Southern Iraq, is built on geology that dictated the need for substantial seismic stadium expansion joints up to 400mm wide. The Project Design team had good experience on major projects with EMSEAL jointing systems for use in demanding situations such as stadium concourses, so they specified the EMSEAL SJS-Seismic Joint System. Each custom assembly was produced in our Toronto facility to the measured field dimensions for installation according to a detailed plan, with training at EMSEAL’s Boston, USA Training Centre, with a full-size mock-up of a tread-riser-tread assembly to match those in Basra. The EMSEAL SJS System ensures continuity of a watertight seal through changes in plane and direction, whilst accommodating the potentially high movement within the joints and without transferring any tensile stress to the structure. The system is free of any additional hard, noisy anchors or connections and does not present any slip or trip hazards. It also safely accommodates the high point loads of small-wheeled fork lifts and stacker trucks for facility maintenance crews and of course, the food and drink wagons and millions of footfalls per game from the fans. 

We designed, supplied, installed, and surfaced this new playground in East London, with the project completing in December 2023. The customer was looking for strong, durable, and attractive looking equipment, and our stainless steel range from Spiel Bau was perfect for the requirement. Spiel Bau equipment comes with lifetime guarantees on stainless steel elements, and has been designed to provide excitement and challenge for children of all ages.The centrepiece unit, the Beeskow multiplay, features two decks linked by an inclined rope bridge, monkey bars, a fireman’s pole, traditional slide, rail slide, and an overhanging climbing wall. The stainless steel uprights combined with hardwood robinia decking and panelling gives a beautiful, architectural finish. The large size and wide variety of play features ensures a high number of children can use the structure at any one time, making it a great piece for parks in high use areas such as this.The multiplay was complimented by two stainless steel climbing frames, the first a crow’s nest look out tower and the second an linear, obstacle course style structure. A stainless steel rope end swing, Stainless Steel seesaw, Zip Wire, and two springers rounded off the equipment, all of which was surfaced by our inhouse surfacing teams with black and green fleck wet pour rubber. We loved working on this project, introducing high quality equipment and surfacing to a park in much need of redevelopment.

The £29m South West College in Enniskillen, designed by Hamilton Architects LLP and built by Tracey Brothers Ltd, is the first building in Ireland to be designed to Passivhaus Premium Plus standard, delivering an average project façade u-value of 0.8w/m2K. The 8,000sqm education and community facility is situated on the prime site of the former Erne Hospital and won the 2021 BREEAM Official Public Sector Project – Design Stage Award.Amongst the most environmentally friendly buildings in the world, the Erne Campus has been recognised as a UN Centre of Excellence for High Performance Buildings. The project has joined 25 other buildings around the world as an exemplar of green construction.Metal Technology Ltd assisted approved fabricator and installer, D & K Architectural Systems Ltd, with thermal modelling of the screens and interfaces to ensure the façade’s systems complied with the stringent design requirements, using triple-glazed System 17 Curtain Walling, System 4-35Hi+ Thermal Casement Windows, System 5-35Hi+ Thermal Tilt & Turn Windows, System 5-20DHi+ Thermal Heavy Duty Doors and System 22 Brise Soleil.A challenging and rewarding project for all involved, we’re extremely proud to have played a key part in bringing this state-of-the-art, carbon zero building to life – an exemplar in sustainable innovation and design.

Construction of Wolverhampton’s eye-catching modern office development i9 has been completed and marks a major milestone in the creation of a thriving commercial quarter at the heart of the city’s award-winning Interchange. The i9 project follows the success of the i10 complex on the opposite side of Railway Drive in the city centre. Both have been delivered by the council and leading property developer, Ion.Designed by Glenn Howells Architects and constructed by GRAHAM Group, the eye-catching i9 building pays homage to the industrial characteristics of the city’s red-brick Victorian architecture. Approved fabricator APiC UK Limited installed Metal Technology Ltd’s System 17 Capped 50mm and System 17 SP structurally glazed Curtain Walling. Opening vents are System 4-35Hi+ Casement, with System 5-20D Hi+ THERMAL Doors and 10-35 commercial framing system.i9 is already home to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government – the first ministerial office with a regular presence outside London.The new office achieves a BREEAM ‘excellent’ rating and incorporates the latest green technology and thinking to deliver low energy use, low resource use, flexibility and low impact on the surrounding environment. It is the first office in the Black Country to be awarded WiredScore Gold certification in recognition of its digital connectivity and infrastructure.

In the picturesque town of Dungloe, a newly refurbished 4-star hotel stands as a testament to the timeless beauty of McMonagle Stone's high-quality materials. Among the standout features of this project are the Grit Sandstone Stoneers, manufactured by McMonagle Stone. This case study explores the distinctive characteristics and applications of these materials, showcasing their ability to elevate the aesthetic appeal and functionality of various architectural elements.The Grit Sandstone Stoneers are meticulously crafted at McMonagle Stone’s state-of-the-art Production Facility in Mountcharles, Co. Donegal. Boasting a captivating golden-brown hue, these flats exude an unmistakable charm. The surface texture resembles granite with its gritty composition, which adds depth and character to any design. The popularity of Grit Sandstone Stoneer extends to both internal and external applications, making them an ideal choice for enhancing the beauty of house facades, fireplaces, porches, and boundary walls.In the meticulous refurbishment of the Dungloe Hotel, McMonagle Stone's Grit Sandstone Stoneers played a pivotal role in transforming the establishment's aesthetic appeal. The Grit Sandstone Stoneers, with their golden-brown tones and granite-like texture, added a touch of warmth and sophistication to the hotel's internal and external spaces. The captivating hues and gritty surface texture created an inviting ambiance, elevating the overall guest experience.xquisite setting where natural beauty, durability, and timeless elegance converge, thanks to the outstanding materials manufactured by McMonagle Stone.

HALO is an imaginative, innovative and inspirational regeneration initiative to revitalise Urban Cities and Towns of the UK.A first for Scotland is HALO Kilmarnock at the heart of Kilmarnock town center. The HALO project will support the growth and resilience of the Ayrshire economy. HALO will create a dynamic commercial, educational, cultural, leisure and lifestyle quarter of the town, fueled by renewable energy, where people can live, work, learn and play.This multi-faceted regeneration of a 28-acre site, was supplied over £80,000 worth of AG Plaza Paving, TerraKerb® and TerraPave® Step Units to complement the stunning architectural work of the modern building and surrounding areas.David McCandlish Regional Sales Manager at AG stated: ‘This was a major win for AG. We supplied a range of hard landscaping products around the new project. Our Plaza premium granite paving, TerraKerb and TerraPave step units provided the perfect combination of durable paving and modern sleek design for this stunning project.’The focal point of HALO will be an Enterprise and Innovation Hub being created to stimulate digital learning, inspire innovative thinking and provide a conducive environment for spin-out, new-start, scale-ups, digital, manufacturing and cyber businesses.The completed HALO will feature a new Urban Park, surrounded by entrepreneurial businesses in computer technology, cyber research, engineering, fashion, financial services and light manufacturing.

Stowford Mill, built in 1787, is one of Devon’s oldest historic industrial sites to still be expanding.Because of its iconic features and characteristic atmosphere, Stowford Mill has long been established as one of the trendiest places to work, eat and shop, bringing commerce and prosperity to the surrounding area, and forcing the town to expand to make room for tourists who just never wanted to leave.Part of this expansion will eventually include Burrington Estates’ eight-acre vibrant community of contemporary new homes. This new development, for which the main contractor is URBN, is due for completion in 2023.Started in March 2018, the existing homes already include Alumasc Rainwater Infinity Steel gutters and downpipes, specified to provide eco-friendly, discreet and resilient water management that will last. Crucially, this system was favoured to the use of plastic systems, to meet the demand for a readily available product that was both environmentally- and price-conscious.As the new development creates a unique new environment in which to live, work and relax in the midst of the historic area, the most important part of the project was to keep the best of the stunning architectural heritage already there, whilst finding innovative ways to incorporate the latest modern building design. Helping to bridge this gap between the historic and the modern, AWMS offered a solution.“Alumasc systems were chosen as it was the project’s requirements to specifically use steel for gutters and downpipes,” David Loader, Key Account Manager at Alumasc, explained.

Armourcoat polished plaster creates a stunning entrance for the refurbishment of Greater London House in Camden’s Mornington Crescent. The building, owned by Lazari Investments, is a striking example of Art Deco Egyptian revival architecture formerly the Carreras Cigarette Factory. The hand-applied Armourcoat wall finish forms part of the interior design by Forme UK, which pays contemporary homage to the style of the façade and befits the scale, importance and heritage of the building. An entrance ‘portico’ creates subtle references to Egyptian style, shapes and motifs, finished in a dark anthracite coloured polished plaster finish. A silhouette outline of the famous bronze cat sculptures which flank the entrance was incorporated into the surface. The image of a black cat was also a branding device for Carreras, used on the packets of their Craven A cigarettes and is a repeating logo across the front of the building.The Smooth polished plaster finish is similar to the marmorino stucco used extensively in northern Italy during the Renaissance period. Armourcoat Smooth finish resembles natural stone and consists of a natural mineral material composed of hydrated lime and crushed marble combined with special additives to control working characteristics. The final appearance of this finish is dependent on the hand of the individual applicator, making it possible to achieve anything from a plain lightly polished surface to a more highly burred marbelised effect. Photography: © David Barbour

The Brewhouse, formerly known as Farsons Brewery was one of the first and finest examples of concrete-reinforced Art Deco buildings on the island of Malta. The building was founded and designed by Lewis V Farrugia and William Binnie and originally opened 73 years ago in June 1950.Now a Grade II listed building The Brewhouse has been part of a €86 million redevelopment project, reimagined by world-renowned London based ritchie*studio. Covering over 7,000 sq m of industrial space, the building now includes a unique mix of office, food and beverage, retail, visitor experience, and events space over seven floors.In a building of such historical and architectural significance the new windows not only had to look as close to the originals as possible, but also meet stringent requirements for thermal efficiency, as the building was designed to meet the strictest of environmental codes. Clement was thrilled that over one hundred white Clement EB24 steel framed windows were specified, featuring T bars and multi point locking.Robert Abela, the Prime Minister of Malta, was among around 400 people who attended the inauguration ceremony of Trident Park and The Brewhouse, one of the most iconic regeneration projects in Maltese history.ritchie*studio director, Ian Ritchie said: “Clement Windows provided the perfect steel window profile and workmanship solution to help restore this beautiful and iconic Maltese industrial Art Deco building."

The buildings around Clerkenwell Green in London feature a mixture of architectural styles. The area is designated a Conservation Area and some properties are listed. During the nineteenth century it was a busy centre for specialised crafts and manufacture and the buildings at No 10-11 were originally constructed as warehouses.The Uniform Clothing & Equipment Company (Uniquip) occupied the two buildings from around 1910 to the 1990s and was a well known supplier of band uniforms.Stagg Architects obtained planning permission to refurbish and extend the original 13,000 sq ft building by an additional 7,000 sq ft. The renovated building comprises a new roof extension, flexible spaces on the ground and lower ground floors and offices at the upper levels.A four storey side extension infill was constructed and Clement Windows Group were selected to manufacture the new and replacement steel windows and doors throughout the building. It was very important that the new windows were in keeping with the original building and did not detract from the character and appearance of the surrounding Conservation Area and adjoining Listed Buildings.Windows and doors from the Clement EB20 steel window range were chosen and powder paint coated in black with the accompanying hinges and handles painted to match the frames. The huge wall of steel windows to the side of building includes a patterned glass which allows light to enter while also providing privacy for the neighbouring properties.Photographs taken by Matt Chisnall, @mattchisnall

My Design, an architecture and interior design studio, uses ESCREO whiteboard paint to design comfortable, organised and creative home offices. The passion of their team is to put function above form without compromising on the wishes of the user. This is how they make interiors subject to the daily activities, hobbies and needs of their clients. They also witness the evolution of home and “home office” space, new solutions for more comfort when working from home and new distribution planning trends that can be taken into account in an upcoming residential interior fit out or refurbishment of an apartment. They share that "just as we have not deprived ourselves of the comforts of the modern world, so we want to expand the field of useful materials, surfaces and useful ideas". A traditional whiteboard raises some issues that whiteboard paint does not and one can still write on and wipe off as much as they would like. This is a lot of fun for children and it is expanding the range of writable surfaces for creative expression. It turns out to be fun also for us, the grown-up ones, at the same time convenient and super useful. Today, ESCREO whiteboard paint is part of the evolutionary process of communication. It brings creativity, motivation and productivity to your home office. You can read more details in our interview with Arch. Iva Tsalovska where we discuss applicable home office solutions and the changes in the home interior over the last two years.

The ChallengeThe design of two new This large urban regeneration project in Pennywell, Edinburgh, included 719 new dwellings. It comprised four different brownfield areas with existing communities between them, meaning that linkage with the existing communities is essential.Homes are arranged around a central open space within an area characterised by low density housing.The predominant material in the overall development is brick – chosen for its durable, long-lasting qualities and ability to introduce consistency and identity. Zinc cladding, white brick and render, with key entrances defined by coloured blocks, also feature.The SolutionThe design used a simple palette of materials and approach to detailing, to bring a consistent and clear identity. The focus is on attractive, simple proportions, both in the form of the buildings and in the development of the elevations.Two types of brick were proposed: one a red/brown multitone and the other a light brown/red multitone; to be used in conjunction with grey and dark grey rooftiles. The brick selected was Village Harvest Multi for it was consistent with the design and referenced developments nearby.The BenefitsThe architecture used throughout the development provides quality and variety.The buildings complement each other and create a distinct character and identity. The feature materials add to the rhythms and patterns in the elevations to create variety in the streetscape and mark key corners and frontages.The extensive development is a result of an investment of £42 million by the City of Edinburgh Council and includes £7.9 million grant funding from the Scottish Government.

The new build St George’s Quay student accommodation is part of the Luneside East Regeneration Project in Lancaster, which will create a new quarter of the city with a mix of housing, commercial space, high quality open spaces and walking and cycling routes.In a prominent waterfront setting on the edge of the River Lune and built on the site of the former St George’s Mill, the St George’s Quay development comprises four student accommodation blocks, ranging from three to six storeys, delivering 431 bedrooms in clusters and studio apartments.PROJECT INFOThe buildings are modelled around the existing industrial architecture of the site. The client used a mix of materials, including brickwork that reflects the local vernacular and Corten steel cladding to emphasise the site’s industrial history.In addition to the 431 bedrooms, the development also provides a gym, games room, communal dining, study area, and on-site parking.The development aims to be a landmark in urban regeneration and high quality design and be an exemplar of sustainable developments.The brick selected for the scheme is Belgravia Gault Blend, a buff, thrown brick from Forterra’s Ecostock range. It has a rustic finish that resembles a handmade brick. Ecostock bricks are manufactured using the latest technology in sustainability and production efficiency, producing bricks with low embodied energy as well as advanced colour consistency, dimensional accuracy and quality.

The Castle Hotel Windsor, dating back to the 1600s, is situated amongst some of the most historic examples of architecture in the UK. The hotel is located opposite Windsor Guildhall, near to royal attractions such as St George’s Chapel and Windsor Castle.The Castle Hotel first began its life in 1528 as The Mermaid Inn, brewing beer and cider. In the 1700s, Richard Martin was awarded the first of the hotel’s Royal Warrants, to provide horses and carriages for the royal household, making it one of the most popular and grandest places to stay in the Royal Borough.By the 19th century, the Duke of Wellington dined at the hotel following his victory over Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo, which elevated its reputation as the connoisseur’s choice of accommodation in the area.Today, The Castle Hotel Windsor retains this reputation and has recently been restored and to preserve the elegance and atmosphere of its rich history.It was recommended to remove all existing render and re-render using NHL (Natural Hydraulic Lime) to allow full breathability.The KEIM Soldalit-ME system, in colour 9435, was specified for the redecoration of The Castle Hotel Windsor to provide a long-lasting and durable paint finish. It has the added environmental benefit of helping degrade nitrogen oxide pollutants from the atmosphere. The photocatalytic reaction also helps to breakdown organic material and contaminants, keeping surfaces cleaner for longer.

Architectural glazing systems by Kawneer were specified for their “robustness and quality” for two linked 16-storey apartment blocks on the last plot to be developed in one of Britain’s fastest-growing property hot spots - the £37 million BTR (Build To Rent) towers at Erie Basin in Salford Quays, Manchester, a stone’s throw from MediaCityUK.Kawneer’s AA®100 curtain walling features as strip curtain wall to copper-coloured rainscreen areas of the towers at Erie Basin. In addition, AA®110 curtain walling features on link bridges and as floor-to-ceiling screens facing the water. While the AA®100 system uses 50mm sightlines, the AA®110 system uses 65mm but both in this case were zone-drained. They are complemented by AA®541 open-out casement window inserts and AA®720 ultra thermally-efficient entrance doors.The Kawneer systems were installed over eight months by a team of up to 35 from approved specialist sub-contractor FK Group for main contractor GRAHAM and client Glenbrook, the privately-owned property development and investment company, who acquired the site from the Peel Group.The prominent dockside development is GRAHAM’s second project with Glenbrook, with work also underway on another £27 million BTR project in Ellesmere Street, Castlefield, Manchester, which also features Kawneer systems.

Architectural glazing systems by Kawneer were specified as a “key aspect” of the new regional head office of British Sugar’s parent company, the FTSE 25 Associated British Foods (ABF), for their pedigree and quality.CPMG Architects selected products from all of Kawneer’s portfolio for the building on a 4.5-acre site at Cygnet Business Park, Hampton, Peterborough, which would enable the relocation of almost 400 people from ABF businesses locally (AB Sugar, British Sugar, AB Mauri, ABF Ingredients and ABF) with the addition of purpose-built conference and training facilities and a showcase central reception area. Kawneer’s aluminium AA®100 SSG (Structurally Silicone Glazed) curtain walling features on the ground floor reception, meeting/conference spaces and south-facing restaurant/café while AA®100 mullion-drained curtain walling has been used on the first and second floor open-plan offices of the three-storey building.In addition, the 5,755m2 (GIA) building features ultra-thermally efficient AA®720 doors, large (3m high by 9m wide) AA®3572 sliding doors and over-sized (2.4m by 0.7m) AA®720 parallel opening windows, all installed by approved specialist sub-contractor Norman & Underwood.

The ChallengeThis purpose-built, cutting-edge medical research facility forms part of the Karolinska Institutet and is now one of Europe’s largest laboratories.Home to over 1,600 scientists and support staff and with such a high footfall, the safety of individuals took centre stage in the design and construction of the facility.Additionally, ensuring a design aided world-class medical research was of utmost importance. This meant creating inviting, collaborative meeting spaces which were flooded with natural light, as well as rooms that could achieve the correct acoustic and impact performance requirements to contribute to the accuracy of the laboratory’s critical research.To achieve all of these requirements, specifying the correct materials was crucial to achieving the architectural vision of the building, centered around a spectacular glass atrium that connects the outside with the inside. Pyroguard was approached to deliver a solution that would ensure compliance with safety regulations.The SolutionWith glass playing a crucial part in the building’s design, it provided a practical way of delivering adequate fire protection, making Pyroguard Firesafe ideal for the project.With EW-classification, the solution protects against flames, smoke and radiant heat for between 30 and 120 minutes, while also providing additional radiant heat control to deliver greater fire protection.The structural integrity of the product further ensures it can be handled and installed in the most challenging applications, including Biomedicum’s beautiful glass atrium.

Project DetailProject: Brighton CollegeLocation: Brighton, UKProduct: TS.7000 range of floor springs for corridors and TS.9000 range of architectural door closers for dormitoriesProject DescriptionBrighton College, an 1845 original Boys and Girls college, had an extension to their buildings and, needed door closers for the new dormitories and apartments. The closers needed to be high quality and cost effective with the corridors being concealed in the floor. Brighton College working with the renown McLaren Construction Group Plc and their associated suppliers and contractors fitted the TS.7000 and TS.9000 ranges because the:Corridors needed closers engineered to high standards that would withstand heavy duty usageDormitories needed smaller closers that matched the quality of the Corridors, giving optimum performance at smaller usage levels‘I would like to say that I was very pleased with your service and how professional your company was on how we resolved this issue at Brighton College.Your advice and technical expertise did help out immensely, and we got to the bottom of what had been happening in the past on these Doorsets.I would like to thank you personally for taking up your time and visiting site, which I think was beneficial to get a third party to voice their opinion and fight my corner, as I was fighting a losing battle for 2 years.Darren BlackDirector

Surespan designed and manufactured several fire-rated roof hatches for the Killeen ISD East/West Ward Elementary School, in Killeen Texas.  The Project:Huckabee is the architect behind the East/West Ward Elementary School, tasked with replacing two 60-year-old campuses, by combining them into one new holistic learning environment. The planning behind the architecture focuses on efficiency, function and ease of wayfinding. From simple to navigate corridors, modernised classrooms and glazing to illuminate the interior with natural light. East/West Ward Elementary School blends district design standards with innovative thinking to achieve spacial efficiency and maintain equitability.Product:Surespan designed and manufactured five 35.5-inch x 35.5-inch Fire Rated Roof Hatch with an integral guard hand railing attached. These hatches are thermally broken and have been designed and tested with 4-hour fire resistance for integrity to EN 1634-1:2014.  Features:These hatches are using environmentally friendly materials such as non-combustible minerals and fireboard cladding to achieve a top-performing thermal efficiency. All the hatches were finished in a light grey polyester powder-coated finish for an aesthetically pleasing solution. The coating is set to last many years, just like the durable masonry veneer that is featured in the building, helping to maintain the space for years to come. 

Surespan designed and manufactured Glazed Roof Hatches with fixed glazed sections and a vertical end door for the 79&Park residential.The projectOscar Properties commissioned BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group) to design and construct 79& Park residential building. The building is located on the edge of Gärdet, a treasured national park. The architects made conscious decisions throughout the process to provide a sensitive, respectful building with exceptional residences with spectacular views.All Oscar Properties projects aim to add value to the city and the surrounding environment.  79&Park architecture appears like an extension of the park, a gentle hillside seamlessly blending into the nature around it. The project was named Europe’s best housing project in the Internationally recognised real estate competition The International Property Awards.ProductSurespan designed and manufactured multiple glazed roof access hatches in various sizes including 2200 x 2115, 3160 x 1553, and 4175 x 1025.  As part of the glazed roof hatches a vertical door was designed for easy access to the roof spaces. The final glazed hatches were finished off with a polyester powder-coated finish.  Features:These glazed roof hatches feature a specialist sensory control panel. A 1-minute warning sound is activated when rain is detected, and a movement sensor prevents the closing of the hatch. Other features include opening in case of a fire and a keycode pad for exiting.

For its architecturally striking Orwell House scheme in Bethnal Green, London, Bell Phillips Architects (BPA) has specified hand-formed, multi-coloured Antro bricks from Vandersanden, the brick maker renowned for its innovation, craftsmanship and sustainable manufacturing practices. Antro provides just the right balance of colour, texture and contrast for this affordable housing project, designed by BPA for London Borough of Tower Hamlets and forming part of the Berthold Lubetkin-designed Dorset Estate, originally constructed in the 1950’s and 1960’s.Comprising 20 flats in total, Orwell House is a new, wedge-shape, in-fill development, just off Colombia Road, to the North-West of the Borough. BPA’s imaginative design for this six-storey building features balconies and a roof terrace that look out across Ravenscroft Park with the steel-framed volume of Orwell House contained by Vandersanden’s multi-coloured greyish brick envelope. On the two shorter sides, this brick envelope is fronted by balconies clad in pink, glass-reinforced concrete (GRC) panels. This bold chequerboard patterning echoes the tones and patterns used by Lubetkin to animate facades on buildings across the existing estate.Completed in July 2020, Orwell House is a Finalist in the Housing Awards 2021. To find out more about the bricks used in this project or to see the wide range of high-quality bricks available from Vandersanden, click on the 'View more' link 

wedi Primo completes luxury in central London Hotel.The Apex Temple Court Hotel is a luxury 4 star hotel, just off Fleet Street central London. Full architectural and interior design was by Ian Springford Architects, Edinburgh.A key factor in the selection of the wedi shower units for each of the 184 bedrooms was the requirement to achieve a high performance quality waterproof bespoke solution capable of adapting to the on site conditions. Ian Springford Architects has specified wedi shower units since 2004 and Apex Temple Court is the fourth Apex hotel where they have been successfully installed. Bespoke pre-fabricated shower units - Fast installation. The key benefits of using wedi were that the Fundo shower design provided simple, fast adaption to the individual shower configurations on site, as well as the detail of enabling the units to extend under the shower door to promote drainage back into the shower area from water falling off the door when in use.Complete prefabricated shower units allow fast dry and accurate construction in ONE integrated product system rather than a combination of different individual manufacturer’s products creating the risk of potential failures between the different systems during assembly and installation. The finished result was a fast track installation of a factory prepared shower system capable of on-site adjustment, delivering a completely waterproof system backed by warranty.

Brennan & Wilson Architects undertook the transformation of The Barn in East Lothian into an EnerPHit Passive House, emphasising sustainability.The project involved the conversion of a stone outbuilding, with the addition of a large kitchen extension with a planted sedum roof. The owner wanted an energy-efficient home, with no reliance on fossil fuels, which was adaptable to their changing needs should they eventually require single-level living. Rooflights were key to achieving good natural light levels inside the house, due to existing boundary restrictions with neighbouring properties. The selected FAKRO products included quadruple-glazed rooflights tailored for both pitched and flat roofs, aligning with the project's objectives. Installation was efficient with well-packaged products and clear structural guidance provided by FAKRO.The outcome is a remarkable improvement in insulation within The Barn, ensuring year-round comfort while notably reducing energy consumption. Stewart MacKenzie, FAKRO's Regional Manager for Scotland, played a crucial role in providing tailored support, ensuring the selected products met the project's unique requirements.This collaboration showcases the effective integration of architectural design with sustainable, high-quality products, creating a home that emphasises environmental consciousness and occupant comfort. Brennan & Wilson Architects are based in East Lothian, Scotland and have over 20 years experience of designing sustainable, low-energy buildings.

Berry System supplied and installed vehicle safety barriers for new multi-storey car park at Dundee Leisure Centre. Our innovative Brisafe Wire Rope safety barrier has been installed at the new, 500 space East Marketgait car park in Dundee.The multi-storey car park serves the new leisure centre which is part of Dundee City Council’s multi-million pound redevelopment of the city’s waterfront area. The car park, incorporating a retail unit, is linked to the leisure centre by a unit central foyer and the complete facility boasts a competition sized swimming pool, health suite, café and flumes.Our safety barriers were specified throughout the car park including their column  mounted Brisafe perimeter barrier which meets BS EN 1991-1-1 standards. With a zero footprint in the parking bay, Brisafe allows architects to maximise the parking space available, while providing a flexible system that ‘gives’ on impact to minimise damage to vehicles and the barrier itself. It creates a visually attractive barrier that combines an independently tested safety performance with architectural flexibility to enhance the appearance of the whole structure.Whilst most of the car park perimeter was protected by Brisafe barriers, areas that did not provide convenient structural columns were protected by Berry Beam barriers that are floor mounted on RB1 Spring Steel Buffers.

The second phase with sustainable timberPlease Be Seated is a uniquely designed public artwork by London based designers, Paul Cocksedge Studio. The design allows locals and passers-by to stop and watch the world go by whether sat or even lying down. The structure was designed with locations in mind, not wanting to obstruct the busy shopping centres or detract from the surrounding architecture.The artwork was first designed and placed in London using reclaimed scaffolding boards. The second Chinese version of the artwork, however, used Accoya Wood. The structure was fabricated in partnership with UAP and the Accoya was sourced and supplied by local Accoya approved distributor, Jiangsu Dragon Wood (JDW). Paul Cocksedge Studio worked with JDW to complete and install, managing the entire process remotely as a result of Covid restrictions.The artwork is made from 1,440 planks of sustainably sourced, high-performance Accoya timber. A key benefit of Accoya that made it the material of choice is the Cradle to Cradle Gold Certification. This recognises that Accoya is fully circular, with no added synthetic materials, fully recyclable and non-toxic. The Accoya planks are supported by a framework of bent steel designed to be easily assembled and disassembled for travelling.Please Be Seated made its debut in China in 2020, in partnership with Swire Properties. The installation was relocated across numerous locations in China, starting at the Temple Plaza of Sino-Ocean Taikoo Li in Chengdu, before travelling to Guangzhou, Shanghai, and finally Beijing in 2021 where the public artwork is permanently residing.

Located in Edinburgh’s prestigious Charlotte Square,these former National Trust for Scotland offices havebeen refurbished and redeveloped into commercialaccommodation.Originally designed by Robert Adam in 1791, the restorationof these 6 A-listed townhouses sees the architecturalintegrity of these neo classical facades, fully restored. Aswell as restoring the buildings exterior and interior, MorganMcDonnell Architects have also redeveloped the areabehind these old Georgian houses, linking the 3 centraltownhouses to a contemporary lightweight glass and ETFE(a fluorine based plastic) covered courtyard to provide32,000 ft2 of grade A office space.The balanced contrast between the old exterior andmodern interior is reflected throughout the building’s fabric,especially it’s ironmongery. A traditional oval design wasapproved for the knob handles as it provided the mostgrip available. A polished chrome finish was chosen asMorgan McDonnell Architects wanted a modern feel to thehardware whilst being traditionally sensitive to the age ofthe building. Initially Morgan McDonnell Architects wantedto use lever handles, but due to the listed status of thebuilding and the design of the doors (many of the originaldoors were refurbished) a knob handle was deemed themost suitable.Working with Morgan McDonnell Architects, Allgood Plcprovided a combined ironmongery and access controlpackage that included: hinges, door closers, locks, kickplates, signage and concealed electromagnetic locks. Allitems Allgood provided were delivered on time and withinthe clients budget.

When designing a new music department for BirminghamUniversity, Glenn Howells Architects faced the challengeof creating a new construction to fit in with the surroundinggrade II listed buildings, whilst meeting contemporarystandards of accommodation and acoustics.The Bramall Music Building provides a home for thedepartment of music, with a 450-seat auditorium,a domed rehearsal room, various studios, offices andteaching rooms. Working in conjunction with the architect,Allgood created an ironmongery specification that wasclosely aligned to the design concept of the building;classically designed whilst meeting contemporaryperformance standards. The choice of FSB bronze doorfurniture throughout the public areas compliments theaesthetic of the interior but also links the building to themore traditional materials associated with the design of theexisting buildings.The architect wanted to extend the bronze aestheticthrough to the mechanical hardware which provided achallenge as options are limited for fire rated mechanicalhardware in a bronze finish. Allgood were able to applythe unique, simulated Bronze finish to satin stainless steelhardware, continuing the bronze finish throughout thebuilding. Not only did this complete the visual aesthetic butit meant that the hardware would meet all of the fire andbuilding regulations.In addition, Allgood provided electromagnetic holdopen units, signage and door furniture to allow the maincirculation doors through to the auditorium to be held openin pockets. This created a clean, architectural detail thatprovides clear opening widths for visitors to enter through.

The Darwin Centre cocoon creates a new architectural icon for the capital, ground-breaking in scale and breath-taking in its originality and creative brilliance.The design features a vast free-standing structure taking the form of an enormous cocoon within a glass atrium. The eight storey high cocoon houses a unique collection of 17 million insects and 3 million plants collected over the last 300 years by scientists including Charles Darwin, Alfred Russel Wallace and Sir Hans Sloane. The building completes the Museum’s life science complex, the Darwin Centre, following the first phase opened in 2002.Design TeamThe response of the architectural design team at C.F. Møller, lead by partner Anna Maria Indrio, was to create an engaging image reminiscent of an essentially organic form. The surface and texture also needed to reflect this, so the subtle sheen of the ivory coloured Armourcoat plaster was chosen. With an intersecting network of ‘silk threads’ that criss-cross the cocoon, the surface allows for movement and provides a visual framework for openings and niches. Armourcoat was specified to devise a unique creative solution combining both the insulation and the final decorative layers. The cocoon performs a genuinely protective job providing thermal mass to inhibit any fluctuations to the internal temperature – essential for the museum’s treasured specimens. The structure also houses state-of-the-art laboratories for 250 international scientists and an interactive visitor exhibition.ConstructionA sixty-five metre long skeletal structure was built by sprayed concrete specialist Shotcrete – the first above ground sprayed concrete structural element in the world. Expanded metal mesh was fitted to the steel re-bar framework and a 250mm thick layer of concrete was spray applied to create a 3,500 m2 raw concrete surface. Armourcoat then applied a resin modified render to the structure to minimize localized variations to the surface, before the polystyrene insulation layer was fixed. Using Dryvit Genesis adhesive and over 16,000 Hilti insulation fasteners, a 50mm polystyrene layer was fitted to the entire surface of the cocoon then covered with a layer of reinforcing mesh bedded into Dryvit Genesis basecoat. To create the silk threads wrapping the structure, a special cutting machine was devised which could cut an accurate slot and create the individual 340 panels which make up the cocoon surface. A total of 5.6km of edge bead was then fitted before Armourcoat’s unique AntiCrack substrate preparation system was applied. AntiCrack is a polymer and fibre modified gypsum skim-coat plaster which creates a first class substrate, keeping the Armourcoat plaster layer in peak condition. Two layers of Armourcoat keycoat were applied prior to the application of the final finish. The finished effect of a giant silk cocoon was achieved using ivory coloured Armourcoat Armuralia polished plaster - an exquisite, smooth finish with subtle tonal variations.The cocoon is a milestone achievement, a unique design and technical solution befitting the historic and social reference of the Natural History Museum. This also is a stunning example of the type of commercial projects now undertaken by Armourcoat, celebrating twenty-five years of creative excellence in 2009.Client: Natural History MuseumArchitect: C. F. MøllerMain Contractor: HBG Construction

Project Overview:Guttermaster Limited, a leading provider of bespoke gutter and rainwater solutions, partnered with an architectural firm and a construction contractor to supply and install a unique rainwater management system for a new development. This case study outlines how Guttermaster's collaboration with the architect and contractor resulted in the successful delivery of 300 meters of curved rectangular guttering and 90 meters of Slimline Flush Fix Security Pipe System that aligns with both aesthetic and functional requirements.Project Details:Scope of Works:300 meters of curved rectangular guttering90 meters of Slimline Flush Fix Security Pipe SystemClient's Requirements:The client, a forward-thinking developer, had specific demands for their new development that went beyond conventional rainwater management. They sought a rainwater solution that encompassed the following objectives:Custom Curved Guttering: The rainwater system needed to follow the curvature of the new building, providing a harmonious and visually appealing exterior.Slimline Flush Fix Security Pipe System: To meet the security and anti-vandalism requirements of the development, the rainwater pipe system needed to be flush-mounted for a clean, unbroken appearance. Insurance compliance for anti-vandal products was a key consideration.Integration with Design: The rainwater management system had to seamlessly integrate into the original building design, ensuring a cohesive and stylish appearance.Guttermaster's Approach:Guttermaster approached the project with its trademark attention to detail and expertise in bespoke rainwater solutions:Custom Design Collaboration: The Guttermaster design team worked in close partnership with the architect to create a unique guttering system that perfectly matched the curvature of the building, delivering both aesthetic excellence and functional effectiveness.Slimline Flush Fix Security Pipe Expertise: Guttermaster's Slimline Flush Fix Security Pipe System, ensures it meets both insurance company requirements for anti-vandalism products and the client's preference for clean lines and visual continuity.Seamless Integration: Guttermaster ensured the installation process was executed seamlessly, integrating the rainwater system into the building's original design without compromising its aesthetic appeal.Results:The collaborative efforts of Guttermaster Limited, the architect, and the construction contractor led to a project that exceeded the client's expectations:Aesthetic Excellence: The custom curved guttering solution seamlessly followed the building's curvature, providing an elegant and visually appealing exterior.Security and Vandal Resistance: The Slimline Flush Fix Security Pipe System met insurance company requirements and provided an anti-vandal solution that was incorporated into the building's original design, enhancing the development's security measures.Integration and Functionality: The rainwater management system's integration into the building's design not only met aesthetic expectations but also demonstrated Guttermaster's commitment to providing a functional solution that met the client's unique needs.Conclusion:The collaboration between Guttermaster Limited, the architectural firm, and the construction contractor in supplying and installing 300 meters of curved rectangular guttering and 90 meters of security flush fix rainwater pipe exemplifies the value of teamwork in delivering a tailored rainwater solution. This project showcases Guttermaster's dedication to creating exceptional rainwater systems that combine aesthetics, security, and functionality while adhering to strict insurance company requirements. It also emphasizes the growing importance of incorporating anti-vandal and anti-climb products in the original design of a building to meet modern security demands.

Woolton House stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the past. Constructed during the 18th century and remodelled in the 1930s, this magnificent estate exudes an air of elegance and grandeur. Reading-based Herridge Decorators undertook removal and reinstatement of areas of deterioration, replacing failed cement render with lime render. One of the key advantages of lime render is its breathability, allowing moisture to evaporate from the building's walls and preventing the accumulation of dampness and subsequent damage. The use of lime render in conjunction with the vapour permeability of KEIM Mineral Paints ensures restored areas remain structurally sound and free from the detrimental effects of trapped moisture. The application of impermeable acrylic-bound coatings over historic limewash had contributed to delamination and required removal back to a sound edge prior to redecoration. Surface breathability cannot be restored unless impermeable coatings are removed, however if sound and well adhered to the underlying substrate, redecoration using KEIM Mineral Paints remains possible. KEIM Mineral Paints chemically bond to bare mineral substrates and chemically bond to sound existing paints, providing surface protection and UV stable pigment. Following recent wet weather, organic growth has become more apparent on surfaces retaining moisture which are unable to dry out. Green algae can cultivate on any exterior surface retaining moisture, including elevations of a property and particularly at lower levels. Fortunately, removal is straightforward using a mild detergent and reoccurrence can be prevented by treating surfaces with fungicidal primer, KEIM Algicid, 24 hours prior to paint application.  Polymer and acrylic-based repair materials are unsuitable for use with mineral paints, therefore minor cracking and repair work was completed using KEIM Spachtel, a ready-mixed and easy-to-use paste filler with mineral fibres. Patch repairs were blended with the surrounding substrate using KEIM Contact Plus, a lightly aggregated paint also suitable for disguising surface imperfections and filling hairline cracks. Application of KEIM Contact Plus is suitable onto isolated areas up to a natural breakline or over entire elevations. The high porosity of lime render needs to be equalised without compromising breathability before painting. Also suitable for consolidating previously limewashed substrates, KEIM Soldalit Fixativ, a potassium silicate primer, was applied to prepare surfaces where required. Redecoration was completed in bespoke colours to match the historic scheme using two coats of KEIM Soldalit-ME, with added protection against airborne contaminants typical of rural locations, in addition to the reduction of toxic gasses and A2-s1, d0 fire certification. David Herridge of Herridge Decorators commented; “We've been using KEIM products for many years and knew how suitable they would be for a project of this nature and scale. The products were easy to apply and the colour consistency over large areas is very impressive. The client was really happy with the colour choices and finishes.” Preserving our heritage buildings is a responsibility we should all embrace. By entrusting the restoration work to professionals like Herridge Decorators, we can ensure that these architectural treasures continue to stand tall for generations to come.

Birmingham’s Grade II listed Municipal Bank, a significant historical site, had sat unoccupied since 2006 before being purchased by The University of Birmingham which planned to convert it to a civic space that could benefit all.Built in the 1930s by T. Cecil Howitt, a refurbishment and extension of the building was planned to provide the University with a brand new city-centre based campus. The bank’s redevelopment has since created a learning space for students as well as exhibition and event spaces, meeting rooms and public areas, including a café.Architect, Glancy Nicholls designed the extension and refurbishment. The build was complex, having to accommodate and preserve many heritage features. Main contractor, Galliford Try chose to specify Knauf for a number of internal elements, including Knauf Shaftwall and Knauf plasterboards, due to their experiences of using Knauf products. Drywall Contracts were responsible for the installation of Knauf products, which proved highly compatible with the build’s heritage elements. Honouring the Bank’s historical architectural standing was at the core of the project’s design and construction. “Working around historic architecture, there were a lot of bespoke elements to this project. It was key that modernisation didn’t take away from any historic features and working with Knauf products helped achieve the project with that mindset,” said Jon Jacznik, Director of Drywall Contracts.  For example, a technique called Ashlar plastering was used to create a tile affect that mimicked heritage designs on Knauf boards and partitions. Freddy Maxwell-Heart, Site Manager at Galliford Try, noted that “Knauf successfully worked with heritage plasterers to achieve this effect consistently.”Another integral aspect of the build was the need to bring the 100-year-old building up to modern specifications so that it could meet today’s building regulations. Several Knauf high performance boards were used on this project, their characteristics lending themselves to the practical and regulatory requirements of the build.Knauf Impact Panel, for example, was chosen for use in areas of The Exchange which are open to the general public due to its impact resistance and robust qualities.Being a mixed-use space with offices and events spaces, thorough sound proofing was needed in places. For this, Knauf Sound Panel and Shield Plus was used to ensure a suitable and comfortable environment throughout the building.Knauf Fire Panel also featured heavily in this project. This helped ensure the building’s fire standards met stringent regulations, especially given its Grade II listed status.Construction of The Exchange took place at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 during a nationwide lockdown. This was a challenging time for the industry, but Jon remarked that “Knauf continued to supply systems to ensure client requirements were met with as little disruption as possible.”Similarly happy with the level of support Knauf offered, Freddy observed that “Knauf were very helpful throughout and, Project Technical Manager, Tom Chamberlain was particularly helpful in addressing technical issues.”Jon agreed, adding that “Tom worked closely with the contract manager to overcome all the nuances and oddities the building threw at us. There was a lot of coordination between parties and frequent changes to the plans which Knauf responded to promptly.”Opened in September 2021, the re-developed Exchange offers a significant contribution to the heart of Birmingham and the city’s wider Arena Central masterplan.

Turning it up to 11The Hard Rock brand is synonymous with rock music and the stars who made it famous. The new Hard Rock Hotel in London is no exception, with an incredible memorabilia collection paying tribute to former residents such as Jimi Hendrix, Diana Ross, Bob Dylan and Buddy Holly. The raucous lifestyle these musical icons pursued will live on as the hotel doubles as a live music venue. With this in mind, architectural practice Scott Brownrigg, knew it would need a premium acoustic product, and turned to Oscar Acoustics.The brief was to renovate the public areas of the Marble Arch hotel, which included opening out the entire ground floor, to create a welcoming space for arriving guests. The lobby, reception, GMT bar cocktail bar, Hard Rock Café, shop and lounge were all part of this, creating the perfect atmosphere for recreation. The challenge of opening up the space, is that while removing walls suits certain aesthetic sensibilities, it also removes a room’s acoustic barriers. This can cause noise to reverberate the now-cavernous area.The challengeThe question posed to the architects was how to keep background noise in check to provide a lively buzz for guests without becoming cacophonous? Getting the acoustic balance right is crucial in a building that holds both live bands and sleeping guests. Scott Brownrigg have worked with Oscar Acoustics on previous projects so knew their products and what would work for the situation.The solutionA mixture of Oscar’s SonaSpray fc and SonaSpray fcx was specified throughout the bar and café areas, providing a seamless and decorative solution. The spray absorbs excessive noise, creating a pleasant ambience by giving clarity to speech and music, transforming what would otherwise have been an incessant din.The trowelled, seamless, SonaSpray fcx finish also made sure the acoustic treatment would not intrude on the overall design, and instead blended into the background. In line with Hard Rock’s signature style, the GMT bar used the idea of a 70s record player as inspiration, where the vinyl is held aloft and then drops into place. To accommodate this design choice, SonaSpray fc was applied in black.The results - superb hotel acoustics“Our experience over the years teaches us that architecture and interior design are so much more than just looks. We consider every factor with each project we work on, and acoustics is no exception. We knew we needed a premium acoustic product that would also work with our designs, which is why we chose Oscar Acoustics.”David Mason, director, Scott Brownrigg Ben Hancock, managing director, Oscar Acoustics comments, “This was such a wonderful opportunity to work with a world-famous brand on a brilliantly innovative and creative project. It’s always great to see a practice taking acoustics into account right from the start. Too often design is entirely focused on aesthetics, with noise taking a back seat. Thankfully this was not the case and Scott Brownrigg have skilfully designed an acoustically comfortable space perfect for live music, retaining its atmospheric buzz”.

As we strive to create optimal learning environments for students, innovative solutions that blend functionality with aesthetics are gaining popularity. Among the frontrunners in this domain is Twinfix, a leading manufacturer and installer of high-quality canopies for educational institutions. With a strong commitment to transforming school spaces, Twinfix has been spearheading remarkable projects in Welsh schools, providing students with covered areas that foster learning, play, and socialisation.One standout example of Twinfix’s exceptional canopy work is the transformation of Ysgol Bro Myrddin. Situated in Carmarthen, this primary school now boasts a stunning and practical canopy that has revolutionised its outdoor learning opportunities. By collaborating with the school staff and understanding their unique requirements, Twinfix manufactured, designed and installed a bespoke canopy solution tailored to the school’s needs.The results have been nothing short of transformative. The canopy provides a versatile space for various activities, enabling outdoor learning experiences regardless of the weather. Students can now engage in educational sessions, play, and socialise, all while being protected from rain or excessive sunlight. Twinfix’s innovative design has seamlessly integrated the canopy into the existing architecture, enhancing the school’s overall aesthetic appeal.Expanding Impact: Other Inspiring Examples:In addition to the remarkable work done at Ysgol Bro Myrddin, Twinfix has been involved in several other school canopy projects across Wales. Below we have listed a few more examples that showcase the diverse applications and positive impact of their installations:Ysgol Llanllechid:Located in Gwynedd, Ysgol Llanllechid is an exemplary bilingual primary school. Twinfix partnered with the school to create an inviting outdoor area that complements their commitment to holistic education. The school have continued to invest in utilising their outdoor space by adding five new canopies and extending one since the first canopy was installed. The new canopies have become a hub for creative activities, stimulating curiosity and imagination among the students.Ysgol Glannau Gwaun:Twinfix’s collaboration with Ysgol Glannau Gwaun in Pembrokeshire led to the creation of an expansive canopy that connects different areas of the campus. This architectural marvel provides a sheltered walkway spanning 40 sqm, providing sheltered passage and waiting area for the students.Ysgol Rhyd Y Llan:Twinfix’s canopy installation at Ysgol Rhyd Y Llan in Anglesey has revolutionised the school’s approach to outdoor learning. The versatile canopy space now serves as an outdoor classroom, enabling teachers to deliver engaging lessons in a stimulating environment.Twinfix’s dedication to enhancing learning environments in Welsh schools through their exceptional canopy work is commendable. By collaborating closely with educational institutions and understanding their unique requirements, Twinfix has successfully transformed outdoor spaces into dynamic hubs for learning, creativity, and socialisation.As we continue to recognise the importance of providing holistic educational experiences, Twinfix’s canopies have become instrumental in breaking down traditional classroom barriers. Through their innovative designs, they have opened up new avenues for outdoor learning, play, and exploration, empowering students to thrive in inspiring environments.

Cocoa Studios is a new commercial building at the heart of The Biscuit Factory, a bustling business centre on the former Peek Freans Biscuit Town site in Bermondsey, London. Architectural practice Allford Hall Monaghan Morris’s (AHMM) approach to the scheme referenced the historic warehouses of the area: narrow proportioned brick buildings with large-recessed openings and fine detailing. To achieve this design vision, Vandersanden’s 65mm Herning facing brick was chosen as an integral element of the building’s design.For 123 years, biscuits, such as the Garibaldi and the Bourbon, were manufactured in the Victorian factories on the site, which now consists of new build and refurbished buildings occupied by start-up businesses and small and medium enterprise businesses. The six-storey Cocoa Studios is L-shaped in plan and adjoins an existing building, completing an urban block and providing a new landscaped courtyard at its centre.AHMM examined the various options for the facade with building materials distributor EH Smith to ensure colour and texture requirements were met; it was also essential that the brick worked with a smaller than usual joint profile of 7.5mm. To achieve the batching measurements required when setting the building out, Vandersanden produced the bricks in a single firing to ensure the best possible consistency from the clay product.“We chose Vandersanden’s Herning brick because of its texture and variety of tones and colours. These complement its context while bringing its own distinct identity, helping add variety, interest and joy to the simple, well-proportioned volumes of the building,” explains Lon Luc, senior architect at AHMM. “The richness and depth of the appearance of the brick are especially apparent on the larger double height expanses of brick within the entrance hall interior that helps to emphasise the delightfulness of the space.”The dark brown-purple-blue multi-coloured Herning bricks define the building’s facade which is divided by deep vertical slots into a series of wide brick bays that follow the rhythm of the connected buildings. Within these slots are expansive window openings that are a minimum of one and a half bricks deep, with the heads and cill units produced using specials. The ground and first floor levels are delineated with a hand-laid, expressed brick-bond of soldiers, alternated with flush and projecting headers on a single course that are then stack bonded. From the second floor up, an uncomplicated stretcher bond emphasises the solidity and proportions of the bays; a recessed mortar joint adds a further delicate grain.“The facade detailing subtlety echoes the variety of brick patterns of the neighbouring Victorian architecture and follows the care and attention to detail of Peek Freans’ original design and engineering in a contemporary manner,” explains Lon Luc. “Every detail was carefully co-ordinated with the brickwork contractor, Grangewood Brickwork Services, and Vandersanden, along with EH Smith; the process included several pre-production visits to Vandersanden’s factory. The brick's quality, appearance and versatility contributed greatly to the aesthetic success of the project.”To find out more about the bricks used in this project or to see the wide range of high-quality bricks available from Vandersanden, click on the 'View more' link