"rubber panels slabs"

Premier Security & Fire Consultants Ltd designed, fabricated and installed these security products for instructing clients, the Wates Group.The project in Tower Hamlets, East London included LPS1175 SR2 Secured by Design security installations including: Fully glazed entrance doors with side screen and control panel; bin store doors, vehicle and pedestrian gates, louvred doors and dry-riser box doors.For more information about Premier, go to our website premier-ssl.com or call us on 0208 559 8295. 

In Vlaardingen Museum, the Netherlands, old meets new. The use of concrete, aluminium and glass creates a powerful sense of open space and transparency. The many level changes and loft-like spaces meant it was important to find a balustrade solution unobstructed by a conventional handrail or metal grip. The Easy Glass Pro structural glass balustrade offered the ability to make fine adjustments to the positioning of each glass panel from the installation side – invaluable when being installed on the various sections of finished concrete flooring levels.

We were commissioned by Llangors Community Council to design a new playground for their village, and installed this in two phases over 2022 and 2023. The centrepiece of the area comprised of a fantastic multiplay activity tower from Kaiser Kuhne. This glue laminate hardwood structure comes with a 30 year structural guarantee, and provides an exciting range of activities. New swings, a toddler multiplay, adventure trail, overhead rotator, two springers, and new play panels were also installed to give excellent options for all ages and abilities.

The waiting room at Houton Pier on The Mainland of the Orkney Islands was cold and draughty due to a weather-damaged door opening directly into the waiting area. An extension was built to create a weather break and fitted with record FTA 20 automatic folding doors which minimise the time the door is open to the elements but still provides good access. The doors are activated by a radar presence sensor for two way traffic. The old door was also replaced with a THERMCORD sliding door with energy efficient core panels to further reduce the ingress of cold air.

Another development of luxury apartments – this time on the scenic coast of Yorkshire – has specified Neaco’s range of glass balcony designs, balustrade and metal grating. The complex of 32 properties includes balustrade installed to a terrace to the front of the building, our standard Juliet glass balcony designs throughout and a number of our bespoke walk-on glass balcony designs with our aluminium grating systems used as flooring. The balconies and balustrade include aluminium stanchions and rails specified in a black powder coated finish which complements the tinted glass panels.

Neaco’s semi-structural glass balustrade and aluminium decking have been extensively specified at The Slate, the University of Warwick’s impressive conference centre occupying a waterside setting in the heart of the campus near Coventry. Designed by Associated Architects and built by Speller Metcalfe, the facility comprises 650 sqm of flexible event space.The building maximises views of the adjoining lake with a predominance of glazing and no pillars or fixtures to obscure the outlook. Neaco’s balustrade lines the full-length of a front terrace overlooking the lake and accommodates the view with clear glass panel infills.

Neaco have supplied a wide-ranging balcony balustrade and internal balustrade specification at a development of luxury waterside apartments in Guisborough, North Yorkshire. The company’s glass panelled Juliet balconies and bespoke walk-on balcony designs are featured alongside balustrade installed to an interior mezzanine and a communal roof terrace. Handrails and balustrade have been precision-manufactured in aluminium featuring a powder coated finish in one of Neaco’s standard metallic colours. The rails and stanchions combine superbly with tinted toughened glass infills for a stylish modern aesthetic.

For Birmingham New Street Station, SAS International designed, manufactured and installed bespoke waveform ceiling solutions. Bespoke ceilings comprising fixed angle bulkheads were installed in line with the curving platforms. The typically trapezoidal bulkheads were bolted end to end in order to form a faceted layout to follow these curves. The SAS International design team was able to rationalise the number of unique panel types down to four. This overcame the driver visibility issue, ensured uncompromised aesthetics and brought costs within budget.

400 Longwater overlooks the central Longwater Lake. A stunning new building providing new office space to the Green Park development.Sylan Products Supplied:Real Wood Veneer Toilet CubiclesFlush frontedStrong, secure and luxuriousInvisible fixing systemFull height cubicleFSC CertifiedAvailable in 11 Real Wood VeneersSolid Surface WashtroughTimeless designHardwearingConsistency of colour throughoutMatching Real Wood Veneer under panelsAvailable in 12 Solid Surface colours

Located at Manchester Science Park, Base is Manchester’s newest tech and advanced materials green hub, purpose built for businesses working in Industry 4.0 and for those looking to develop the future talent of the science and tech sector.Taylor Maxwell worked closely with main contractors Caddick Construction, to specify and supply the Corium brick cladding used across the facade. The BBA certified cladding system, manufactured by Wienerberger, was installed directly onto Rainspan composite panels which helped to reduce installation time on site.

Damage from the build up of moisture results in mould, mildew and condensation on windows and in the loft space. Additionally, where there is a moisture problem in the wall cavity, damage readily occurs to the insulation and wall ties, affecting wall plates, the timber frame itself and installed joinery. Preventing this from occuring is obviously a priority in the minds of all designers and builders interested in quality construction. SureCav Provides the Solution. By building with the SureCav panels instead of a using a block leaf you are providing a barrier to protect from wind driven rain.

We've upgraded the washrooms at a busy shopping centre in Northampton featuring Alavo integrated consumable units from Dolphin Dispensers and bespoke Corian vanities. The washrooms also feature our Senza cubicles, which were manufactured in solid grade laminate (SGL) and finished with an attractive walnut veneer to complement the contemporary style. Our Concerto integrated duct panel system, which was also manufactured in SGL with matching walnut veneer finish to complement the cubicles, was installed underneath the vanities and behind the WCs and urinals.

Washroom Washroom designed, manufactured and installed new superloo washroom facilities on each floor along with new staff shower and changing areas in the lower basement of this office. The washrooms feature full height Alto gloss laminate cubicles, bespoke Corian vanities and Concerto duct panels in toughened back-painted glass. In the new basement staff shower facility Washroom installed its Luminoso glass cubicles, back-painted in black, bespoke benching and Tempo solid grade laminate Z style lockers.

The National Memorial Arboretum (NMA) in Staffordshire is winner of the Large Visitor Attraction category in the Visit England Awards for Excellence 2018. Designed by Glenn Howells Architects (GHA), this stunning building is the UK’s year-round centre of Remembrance - a spiritually uplifting place which honours the fallen, recognises service and sacrifice and fosters pride in the UK. The building engages materially with its environment and harnesses a soft material concept of larch timber and natural stone. Internally this is complemented by the installation of 1000sqm of Troldtekt wood wool acoustic ceiling panels.

The main hall at Bohunt, a state-of-the-art secondary school in Wokingham, benefits from superbly adaptable space thanks to a contemporary DORMA Hüppe Variflex operable wall, installed by UK supplier, Style. Meeting the demand for a system with a particularly narrow stacking solution, the Variflex incorporates panels and pass doors that can be as little as 976mm wide, as opposed to the more standard 1200mm width. Recognising a high level of commitment to craftmanship in the finishes and interiors section, Style recently won their 10th Gold in the prestigious FIS Contractor’s awards.

We’ve installed washrooms on three levels of a newly refurbished Grade A office building in the heart of London’s Mayfair district. The new washrooms were designed to mirror the reception area by using American Black Walnut real wood veneer and the same marble finish for the vanities. Illuminated mirrors plus wall-mounted taps and soap dispensers complete the design, while the marble panelling continues full height around the sinks and behind the mirrors. Our Alto full height toilet cubicles add to the high specification design.

Roofing slates from Welsh Slate feature on the Duchy of Cornwall’s Nansledan development. As work continues at Nansledan - the Duchy of Cornwall’s award-winning 218-hectare mixed-use urban extension to Newquay – Welsh slates are continuing to make their mark. Hundreds of Welsh Slate’s Penrhyn Heather Blues in two sizes – 500mm x 300mm and 400mm x 250mm - are being installed on the roofs, and as vertical slating on window bays and under-window panels, by a pair of specialist contractors for two of the scheme’s three housebuilder developers. H

Blackhorse Road Railway Station is situated on the corner of Forest Road and Blackhorse Road in Walthamstow serving the area with Victoria Line and Overground services throughout Greater London. The station features four platforms and at peak times, Blackhorse Road sees trains departing every 2 minutes on the Victoria line and 8 trains an hour for the Overground.The main entrance was to be refreshed and recladding this with VitraNamel was the chosen façade panel because of its superior anti-graffiti properties and hard wearing nature of the vitreous enamel coating.

The BBC TV Centre at Wood Lane London is world renowned for its television output over many years. Completed in February last year, much of the interior was extensively redesigned by HOK architects, with refurbishment and construction carried out by the BDL Group, one of the largest specialist dry-lining contractors in the UK. One of the key factors to ensure that noise was kept to a minimum and reverberation time reduced. The solution was high performance Troldtekt acoustic panels which were used to line all the ceilings and the soffit around the circular atrium.

Canal Architectural were approached to design, manufacture and install luxury feature staircases, balustrades and screens for a commercial space in Bond Street. A leading commercial design company collaborated with the Technical Sales Team to engineer bespoke architectural metalwork for this world class project.The 14,500 sq ft of commercial space in the heart of London was developed to connect its employees and working spaces together over 10 floors. The Zig Zag profile staircase structure and flat bar balustrade featured hidden structural steelwork supports with a site applied bronze effect paint finish. The fully cantilevered stair structure spanned over 6 floors and featured flat bar balustrades and underside soffit panels, all site sprayed in a contemporary bronze effect finish. Another staircase structure spanned over 2 floors and featured hidden structural steelwork supports, wall panels and mild steel flat bar construction.Canal Architectural worked closely with the team to engineer various bespoke items for the development including bespoke planters, balustrades and screens. The entire development was transformed into a contemporary co-working space for the specialist real estate firm.The Canal site team worked closely with the contractor throughout the entire installation process to ensure smooth delivery in line with current building regulations. Canal Architectural are proud to have worked on this extensive redevelopment programme to engineer exquisite architectural metalwork designs for this landmark commercial space.

Thriving family run garden centre upgrades their automatic sliding door entranceLocated in Ayrshire, the long established Hayes Garden Land Symington replaced their existing entrance with a new solution.Project Year:  2022Product: ASSA ABLOY SL500 Frame 4 Panel Bi-parting door. Project Background: As a returning customer, Hayes Garden Land approached us with a brief to replace their tired sliding door system with a modern solution which also tied in with the existing building fabric and internal decoration. With energy prices soaring, it was also important to come up with an efficient solution which maximised heat retention within the building.Solution: We successfully designed, manufactured and installed a 4 panel bi-parting SL500 fully framed system in matching Terra Brown finish, resulting in a seamless integration within the building. To mitigate operational issues & improve safety features - due to close proximity of internal swing doors - we supplied and installed clear glazed barriers and removed several potential risk factors during the design process. The end product is a modern, compliant system which has also added energy efficiencies due to the double glazing and upgraded aluminium profile system.For more information or assistance with any project, please contact enquiries.esuk@faactechnologies.com where we can provide expert guidance and detailed documentation.

Hush Acoustics were tasked with resolving acoustic issues within the King’s House School in South West London.The two Victorian buildings feature a dining hall which had become an extremely noisy environment during lunch service, and this had become disruptive. The hall itself featured hard surfaces throughout with no sound absorption potential, and this was also a problem when the hall was being used to deliver assemblies.Hush Acoustics carried out tests using its Acoustic Modelling Software to measure the reverberation time within the area. Reverberation time is the most common way of expressing a room’s basic acoustic character. It is the time taken for a steady noise to decay by 60dB after its source has been abruptly cut off.After analysing the result of the tests, 31x Hush 50A panels were proposed to be mounted across the ceilings of the two areas to significantly reduce these noise levels. These panels comply with BB93 standards for school acoustics and all the UK Building Regulations relating to acoustics.Feedback from King’s House Estates Management was very positive, saying that the enhancements made to the space made a huge difference for the school as well as the children.Scott Beavers says “Work was carried out professionally and the sound reduction/intensity has decreased dramatically. This has really made a great improvement, thanks!”

So here we have a stunning steel framed barn conversion stripped down and retrofit with a huge hybrid timber frame panel system manufactured and installed by White Haus Bespoke Timber Frame. These panels are made up of 140mm insulated timber frame, 9mm OSB sheathing with Passive Purple External and two 50mm cross battens externally, followed by feathered edge cladding. With the internal side then adding an additional 50mm PIR insulation flowing into the joist zones with one continuous layer of Passive Purple and 25mm counter battens for services. This 326mm wall build up has used both Passive Purple and Passive Purple External which meet in the window formers to guarantee the build its internal airtight vapour control and external weatherproof breather membrane. The Joints in the OSB, PIR insulation and fixings into the timber frame studwork were all prepped like always using the BRUSH versions of both Passive Purple and Passive Purple External. This fibre reinforced product allows for a tough hold and elongation on any shrinkage the insulation or timber may have with building settlement or extreme changes in climate. With only a score of 2.5ach required, Intelligent Membranes have given this wonderfully unique home the full treatment for perfect performance to keep the HVAC system running on low hassle percentage and optimal performance output.

Project:Unity Campus Client:Howard Group Architect:Nicholas Hare Architects Value: £12m Location: Sawston, Cambridge Completion Date: June 2023 Innovare duration onsite 15 Weeks GIFA: 88,000 sq. ft Air Tightness: 1 via passive purple U-Value 0.13 (259mm i-FAST with additional insulation by others on inside face of panel) System: i-FAST/Wrap SolutionPhase 2 of a new £100 million technology and R&D campus in Sawston, south Cambridge is now complete, providing an additional 90,000 sq. ft of science laboratory space across three buildings. Built on Cambridge’s reputation within life sciences, this phase enhances Unity Campus and elevates the region’s role within the industry. Designed by Nicolas Hare architects, the building envelope is purposely designed to provide occupants with a healthy and attractive environment. Collaborative design development incorporating a concrete frame and advanced structural timber technology meant an innovative approach to the construction method could be adopted, bringing key advantages of sustainability and performance efficiency. The Innovare Offsite i-FAST Panels were selected for construction because they minimize embodied carbon compared to steel framing systems, achieving the sustainability objectives set by the client Howard Group. Effective collaboration with the architects ensured that the client’s performance specifications were agreed well in advance of the start date.

Achieve better U-values whilst maintaining traditional cavity widths.Developer Mentmore Homes has built two five-bedroom houses in Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire, which are valued at £2.5million each. The walls required an insulation panel that achieved better U-values whilst maintaining traditional cavity widths. Eurowall +, manufactured by Recticel Insulation proved the ideal solution.Nicholas Peck from Mentmore Homes explained:"We wanted to make the properties as energy-efficient as possible. To make this happen, the best place to start is the insulation. Specifying Eurowall + meant we didn’t have to increase the size of the wall cavity and lose space inside the properties. The panel’s interlocking feature was another reason for its specification because it slots together so easily and will remain solid and airtight. We required a high quality product for this extremely high-profile project - Eurowall + didn’t disappoint."About Eurowall® +:Eurowall® + is a premium, high performance full fill insulation board with precision cut tongue and groove joints on all four sides. This ensures that the boards lock tightly together minimising heat loss through thermal bridging. This unique joint offers increased protection against wind driven rain as well as improved windtightness. Eurowall® + is also designed with a 10mm cavity requirement in mind, so that space can be left for conventional bricklaying techniques.

Completed in 2020, this residential building spans 9 storeys and a double-level basement, providing 201 luxury apartments.Located in the City of Westminster, the existing 7 storey building was completely stripped down to only the basement level, leaving existing basement walls before it was replaced with the 9 floors costing an overall of £135 million.The site is surrounded by public roads and footpaths on all four sides which created a challenge in terms of logistical access and security for the project. Because of these boundary restraints, Panthera Group designed a narrower concrete block supported hoarding system. The completed building includes private spa, lounge, fitness and amenity centre.To resolve the public access problem, 48 Carey Street has dedicated one of the basements to an underground car park and it can be accessed through the main entrance on Carey Street, or another entrance on Portugal Street.Selo provided wallpaper riser door systems in the main corridors, which were specifically tested for the project. The advantage of the wallpaper is that the riser doors then seamlessly blend in with the surrounding design and the eye is drawn to the front door of the apartment, rather than what would have been an unsightly riser door. Inside the apartments, the interior design is modern with some traditional features such as paneling in which we were glad to support the architect by providing bespoke sliding pocket doors to compliment the design, with their panelled leafs.

Architects: IDOMLocation: Donostia, SpainPhotography: Iñaki BergeraMaterial: NATURSIDING-WFinish: RustikThe Aldapeta María Ikastetxea School is the interpretation of modernity, sustainability, and innovation poured into architecture. With the original building demolished, which dated back to the 19th Century, the new school building accompanies the view of education into the future, leveraging new technologies.Efficiency has been key to this project through the use of geothermal energy and natural light used as a shaping tool of space. Our durable rain-screen system wood panels embrace the refinement and warmth typically of wood into the structure in juxtaposition with other materials such as concrete and metal resembling Japanese architecture, with its pure lines, rhythm, dynamism, and sobriety.To accentuate the rhythm and promote harmony between concrete and wood, we have opted for the vertical placement of the slats that evokes the patterns of the wood framework. Achieving such effect is possible given the aesthetics enhanced by the small piece that attains a harmonious relationship between wood and concrete. With an innovative setup in the architectural sphere composed of a hidden system with no visible screws or rivets, the slatted cladding can be placed vertically even in large buildings, and in an easy way that provides a sense of strength and uniformity to the whole. The PARKLEX PRODEMA panels new setup system allows achieving distinctive finishes with the warmth of the wood, longevity, durability, and limited to no maintenance requirements.

In August 2020, we initiated a meeting with the designated mechanical sub-contractor for this prestigious project, the Copr Bay – Swansea Arena. Shortly thereafter, we were provided with the initial product schedule. The schedule outlined the specific requirements for MHS Monoplan Standard Type EK and Secureguard Style B LST radiators, enabling us to conduct a comprehensive quotation pricing exercise.We arranged a meeting and facilitated the presentation of Flat Fronted Panel and LST Ultra radiator samples. The objective was to determine the suitability of our products for the project.Following the submission of samples, we received confirmation that they were approved by both the client, City & County of Swansea Council, and the main contractor. In response to subsequent site alterations and resulting radiator sizing amendments we made the necessary accommodations to ensure accurate quotations and a seamless collaboration.In December 2020, after resolving the sizing amendments, we received a purchase order for the supply of radiators for the Copr Bay – Swansea Arena project.From May to November 2021, the installation of our Flat Fronted Panel and LST Ultra radiators at the Copr Bay – Swansea Arena was successfully completed. This period involved meticulous planning and execution to ensure a successful integration of our products. Throughout the project timeline, Towelrads and CMB Engineering Services (West) demonstrated effective collaboration and adaptability, resulting in the successful completion of the installation phase at the prestigious Copr Bay – Swansea Arena from May to November 2021.

Stockport NHS Trust runs both community NHS services and Stepping Hill Hospital, which serves people across the areas of Stockport and the High Peak.With the responsibility of the safety and comfort of so many patients and staff, it is important that the trust maintain a high-quality standard within the built environment.When fire doors in the ground floor corridor of the hospital were identified as having minor damage to edges and panels, the trust engaged with Yeoman Shield to provide a solution to stop the damage from becoming a major concern. Left unchecked this type of impairment can lead to the non-conformity and malfunction of a fire door.Yeoman Shield supplied and installed fire rated FD30 Door Edge Protectors to the leading and hinged edges of double swing door sets along the corridor.Door faces were fitted with Yeoman Shield 2mm thick FalmouthEx protection panels, to guard against impact damage mainly caused by the movement of wheeled and motorised trolleys.Now that the hospital’s fire doors have Yeoman Shield protection fitted, the life cycle of the doors will be extended, avoiding the costly task of replacing them.Yeoman Shield door protection products have been fully fire tested to the current standards required.For fire test and product information on the complete range of wall and door protection go to www.yeomanshield.com or call 0113 279 5854.

Heslington East Campus Student Residences: Sustainable and Efficient Expansion Alongside the preservation of listed buildings, the University of York is investing in a flagship £130m development for students that promotes wellbeing, community, and sustainability. The initial phase sees 16 brand new student accommodation blocks and 2 communal hub buildings providing flexible social spaces. Surrounded by stunning lake views and natural habitats, the buildings are part of a huge initiative to expand the student accommodation offering.GOALSArchitects Sheppard Robson alongside Graham Construction sought to futureproof accommodation by incorporating multi-use buildings, including catering outlets and social hubs. Key to the brief was using the latest in safety, energy efficiency, longevity, and warranty credentials. Graham Construction’s use of modular external sandwich panels, prefabricated steel bathroom pods, and pre-assembled services distribution racks used Modern Methods of Construction with off-site construction techniques.CHALLENGESThe major challenge was to specify a roofing system that could keep up with the pace of the build, given the typical building was constructed from start to finish in circa 14 weeks.The roof deck comprised of precast concrete slabs which facilitated the works programme for speed of construction and consistency in build quality.Alumasc’s challenge was to find not only a waterproofing solution that was able to keep up with such speed of construction but also to meet a truly sustainable life cycle equalling the lifetime of the building.A key consideration in the design was the roofing materials’ thermal properties. To meet the u-value target of 0.15, Alumasc’s XPS Plus insulation was specified, providing a single layer of 175mm, which reduced the height of the overall build-up when compared traditional XPS.SOLUTIONHydrotech 6125 Waterproofing System / Derbigum Hybrid Upstands For over half a century Hydrotech Monolithic Membrane has been successfully used by architects and specifiers, ensuring some of the world’s most prestigious buildings and structures are kept watertight. With no product failures in over 50 years and guaranteed waterproofing integrity for the lifetime of the structure, Hydrotech offers a total life cycle solution for the building.Hydrotech was specified on the main roof areas for this project as it easily meets individual requirements of the buildings. In addition, the system is designed to last the lifetime of the building or structure to which it is applied, giving long-term waterproofing integrity and no future replacement costs.Applied in a hot liquid state to the deck, and including a polyester reinforcement, the bond of Hydrotech MM6125 is 100% absolute. There is no risk of water tracking below the membrane and because it is monolithic, no possibility of lap failure.DERBIGUM WATERPROOFINGDerbigum sustainable roof system was selected for the upstand areas. This hybrid solution was developed to improve the thermal efficiency in all areas to mitigate against cold-bridging with minimal insulant thickness. Derbigum bituminous membranes are high-performance waterproofing systems offering extended warranties and the highest levels of project support. The upstand zones benefited from Derbigum Mineral which is a mineral surfaced composite reinforced membrane.ROOFTOP MANAGEMENT STRATEGYIn addition to the waterproofing solution the buildings benefit from the full Alumasc rooftop management service. This included the design and supply of safety systems, accessories, and over 20 AOV smoke hatches meeting all British and European standards.Specific safe zones were designed by Alumasc Roof-Pro and positioned around all roofs for safe access. Purpose made clips for installing lightning conductor tape without roof penetration were also provided. All rooftop accessories are part of the Alumasc Roofing specification and therefore can be found back-to-back within the Alumasc 35-year system warranty.PROJECT DATACompletion: Autumn 2022 BuildingType: Student Accommodation ProductApplication: Hydrotech & Derbigum waterproofing systems Certification: BBA Approved & European Technical Approval Architect: Sheppard RobsonMain Contractor: Graham ConstructionAlumasc Registered Roofing Contractor: Tandragee Roofing

BackgroundThe BISF (British Iron and Steel Federation) constructed the Newarthill properties in the 1940’s, utilising steel-framed walls that were initially coated in cement render and vertical steel panels.In previous renovations overseen by the Local Authority, the upper level of the building was clad in PVC weatherboard, while the lowest floor had its exterior re-rendered. The building is characterised by its non-traditional construction style.The houses had extremely poor thermal performance and the flats were difficult and expensive to heat, especially with the rising fuel prices and current cost of living crisis, meaning some residents were in a state of fuel poverty.North Lanarkshire Council required an EWI solution that would achieve the following three key objectives:- Improve the thermal performance of the property portfolio- Specify a system that would achieve a U-value of 0.17 W/m²K and would involve as little technical detailing around the property as possible- Ensure the properties had a modern and aesthetically pleasing look as the current exterior was tired and datedUnderstanding and appreciating K System’s expertise in this sector and innate ability to deliver best-in-class refurbishments, North Lanarkshire Council appointed the partnership of K Systems and Ailsa Building Contractors to tackle the low rise refurbishment project.Our ServiceAs the Newarthill development was already occupied, a key element of this project was to deliver the refurbishment with minimal disruption to current residents and / or neighbouring houses.This is one of K Systems strengths, ensuring jobs are delivered in a timely fashion, without delay, without disruption, and with full disclosure of each phase given to residents throughout the project to build rapport, trust, and confidence.On this particular low rise refurbishment, which had limited access points for all traffic in and out surrounding its immediate vicinity, K Systems had to work closely with the contractor, main contractor, and local authority to ensure they were working in harmony to negate any unnecessary commotion.K Systems’ technical team also carried out regular site visits to make sure the system was installed to the highest standard, in line with specification, and to ensure all involved parties were delivering to time and budget.The refurbishment of the properties is a great example of K Systems’ unparalleled ability to deliver constructional excellence that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of its customers.Technical Project DetailsOn initial scope, the K Systems team identified that a major challenge for this project was going to be the technical detailing between the timber frame sheeted ply at the top storey and precast concrete slab at the bottom. Several U-value calculations were completed by the experienced K Systems team to support the Council’s request of minimal detailing around the property and the target U-value.To meet these requirements, the K Systems P EWI system was specified, which utilises phenolic foam insulation boards. This insulation is lightweight and has a high thermal performance, allowing for thinner sections of insulation to achieve optimal thermal efficiency - perfect for this project, achieving the target U-value of 0.17 W/m²K , up from 0.32 W/m²K.It is a suitable solution for buildings that are restricted in expanding their footprint due to pavements or nearby properties, and can be easily installed on masonry structures, as well as non-traditional structures - an ideal solution for the Newarthill properties.Addressing the request for a modernised aesthetic, a dash render finish was specified. This render is extremely robust, hard-wearing, and low maintenance, ensuring the properties’ refreshed exterior would remain for years to come. The dash render was also complementary to the existing local property portfolio which was something the Council wanted to achieve.This refurb completely transformed cold, weathered, distressed housing in a Scotland suburb into warm, comfortable, aesthetically pleasing homes that met the exact requirements of North Lanarkshire Council and reduced the energy bills for residents due to improved thermal performance.

The new £65 million, Science, Engineering and Environmental Building (SEE Building) at the University of Salford was designed under the concept of incorporating high sustainability credentials. This supports the university’s pledge in reducing the environmental impact, as part of the wider Salford Crescent and University District masterplan. The SEE building promotes innovation, environmental protection and excellent educational opportunities and offers students state-of-the-art facilities with the aid of the LAMILUX Glass Roof PR60. A stunning skylight measuring an incredible 44 metres long and 9 metres wide, as well as three other Glass Roofs PR60, were installed onto the roof of the four-storey building, illuminating the lecture halls and common areas. This results in enhancing the natural daylight, whilst also allowing for natural ventilation, creating an inspiring environment for learning and development. To avoid overheating and glare inside the building, special 60/30 high performing solar glazing was used. This innovative technology ensures a comfortable indoor climate whilst providing an optimal learning environment.LAMILUX worked with the architect from the early planning stage of the project to design, supply, and install the four rooflights. “Just-on-time” deliveries were planned to enable offloading of the materials, with a crane, from the vehicle to the roof, to minimise loading out as space on site was very limited. Integrated ventilation panels were installed within the three smaller PR60 Glass Rooflights to provide the ideal solution to provide natural ventilation into the building alongside natural daylight.The largest rooflight was glazed with an impressive total of 120 fixed glass panels to make up the impressive 44 metre length and complete the installation. The glass panels were specified with Class 1 Fragility, suitable for walking on for cleaning and maintenance loads, according to CWCT TN 66 /TN 67 & TN92. Before the final handover of the project, extensive water tightness testing was carried out. On site CWCT hose tests were passed successfully, as testament to the quality and durability of the installation led by the LAMILUX installation team. The University of Salford is passionate about sustainability. LAMILUX are proud to be involved with a building project that not only contributes to the progressiveness and commitment to sustainable architecture, but is also considered a BREEAM Excellent-rated facility.

Project:West Coventry AcademyClient:Department for EducationContractor: Bowmer & Kirkland Architect: Strides Treglown Architects Value; £38.4m Location Coventry:Innovaré Completion Date Autumn 2023 Innovaré duration onsite 30 Weeks GIFA m²:12,099m² Framework:DfE’s Modern Methods of Construction Framework (MMC1) Innovaré System/ Solution:Psi-FAST panels included factory installed windows, insulation, and brick-slip cladding with a Passive Purple Coating to substantially improve airtightness.West Coventry Academy (WCA), which was procured through the DfE’s Modern Methods of Construction Framework (MMC1), is the result of a three-year research journey by Innovaré Offsite and a major investment by our partner Bowmer + Kirkland (B+K). It is the first of five pilot ‘net zero carbon in operation’ schools for the Department for Education (DfE) and used the panelised Psi-FAST solution to deliver a hugely energy efficient, offsite manufactured design. Delivering a PMV of 70%, Psi-FAST improves efficiencies by taking more construction processes offsite into our quality-controlled manufacturing environment. The factory fitting of vapour control, windows, and cladding enhanced the quality and integrity of important detailing whilst also accelerating the construction programme. Innovaré’s Psi-FAST panels included factory-installed windows, insulation, and brick-slip cladding with a Passive Purple Coating to substantially improve airtightness. The hybrid solution integrates Psi-FAST wall panels with roof cassettes and pre-cast concrete floors and stairs. Scope of works also included offsite manufactured volumetric plant rooms for the project which Innovaré designed and delivered in collaboration with our M+E specialist, DBS. Increasing Pre-Manufactured Value to 70%- a key driver for the DfE, the Innovaré building solution achieves thermal and airtightness levels required for net zero carbon in operation. This project exemplifies the development Innovaré has undertaken to advance the application of the Innovaré offsite manufactured Psi-FAST system. The result is a net zero carbon in operation building with high-performing acoustic attenuation combined with maximising natural light: ultimately providing an optimum learning experience for staff and students.

Following in the footsteps of a string of successful installations at the Northern General Hospital, Sheffield, Yeoman Shield products were again chosen as part of the refurbishment of the hospital’s Firth C & D floor corridors.With the need to refresh the interior walls and doors, as well as future proof them from further damage and marking, a variety of products from Yeoman Shield’s range were employed.Corridor doors, which are on the frontline when it comes to impact damage, were fitted out with Yeoman Shield Door Edge Protectors and PVCu clad glazing beads, both in a graphite colour. Contrasting Mid Grey Door Protection Panels were installed to both sides of the doors with vulnerable architrave and framework also protected by Yeoman Shield products.This comprehensive, fire rated, door protection system will extend the life cycle of expensive fire doors helping to keep them in good working order.Yeoman Shield Guardian Handrails in the same colour scheme were fitted along the hospital passageways. Bespoke metal brackets were manufactured by Yeoman Shield to implement the spanning of the rail over pillars though out a glazed corridor.Beneath the handrail 2mm thick FalmouthEx Wall Protection Panels were fixed to offer low level protection. A cream colour was chosen for the panels accompanied by Mid Grey Corner Protection Angles to keep a light and airy feel to the scheme.Pete Trenchard, who specified and project managed the scheme on behalf of Sheffield Teaching Hospitals added “When carrying out improvements and refurbishment of the corridors, in line with the STH standard colour scheme and standard fit out, I was keen to incorporate the Yeoman Shield range of products to achieve a long-term solution.“The specification of Yeoman Shield products on corridor walls, vulnerable corners, doors, frames & architraves, protects the fabric of the corridors without detracting from the visible aesthetic appearance expected of a hospital environment.“I worked closely with the Yeoman Shield team through the design and specification phase, drawing on their expertise to find a cost-effective fit for purpose solution. The site survey and installation offered a start to finish package which has been contributory to the successful and well received outcome of the project”.

The design of spaces for children is intriguing because of the permanent influence it can have on them. A new online theme by Danish acoustic panel manufacturer Troldtekt explores through articles and expert interviews how good acoustics plays its part when designing these areas. Of course, other factors such as colour, shapes, robustness and finish also have an impact but so does sound. Children are noisy and active and the rooms they inhabit are typically large. Careful design considerations are particularly important because a child’s environment moulds their perspectives for the future and the development of the mind and body. School, activity and childcare spaces all affect self-esteem, performance and friendships and help shape the individual into the adults they will become. Studies such as Bronzaft and McCarthy (1975) have shown the effect noise has on wellbeing and learning - This is the reason why the products of specialist manufacturers like Troldtekt are specified to solve the problems of noise and reverberated sounds. If acoustic absorption is ineffective, discomfort and irritation will result from the reverberations. If it is designed well, the participant’s interest will increase, as many case studies for new and transformed buildings prove. In an interview with Troldtekt, the Danish education psychologist Mille Sylvest comments, “It’s very important to be aware of noise when designing facilities. Noise affects stress levels for both children and staff because nobody can endure spending long periods of time in a noisy environment. Lower energy levels, more sick leave and poorer learning outcomes are the direct results of noise.” Specified throughout the UK and Europe, the benefits of 100% Troldtekt natural wood wool panels include high sound absorption, high durability, natural breathability, low cost life cycle performance and sustainability. This high performance is recognised by their Cradle to Cradle certification at Silver level. Available in various sizes and in four grades from extreme fine to coarse, the panels can be left untreated or painted in virtually any RAL colour. Samples, case studies and technical information are easily sourced from tel 01978 664255 or visit www.troldtekt.co.uk. More information around the theme of childcare institutions can be found on https://www.troldtekt.com/News/Themes/Child-care-institutions 

Ikoyi is in a class of its own, not just in the culinary arts but also in interior design. Danish designer David Thulstrup uses Baltic architectural mesh from GKD for the expressive spaces of this 2-Michelin-starred London restaurant.The visionary founders of Michelin-starred restaurant Ikoyi, head chef Jeremy Chan and businessman Iré Hassan-Odukale, moved into the concrete complex “180 The Strand” close to Covent Garden at the end of 2022. The two partners succeeded in getting the renowned Studio David Thulstrup from Copenhagen on board for interior design. Thulstrup’s works include the design of Noma in Copenhagen, which has been crowned the best restaurant in the world no less than five times.For Ikoyi, Thulstrup created rooms that fully live up to the reputation of the landmarked, brutalist architectural character of this former office complex. With its rare combination of warmth and minimalism, the restaurant’s interior acts as a continuation of the food creations by Jeremy Chan.It should be noted here that in Chan’s kitchen, he not only pays attention to top-quality, sustainably sourced ingredients. His cuisine also builds on spices that originate from West Africa. This is not inconsequential in the context of the architecture, as the interior designer wanted to pick up on the character of the cuisine in the dining room of Ikoyi without limiting the design to a specific culture.Copper, stone, stainless steel meshThe result shines in clear and strong architectural forms, while the material palette is refined to copper, stone, stainless steel mesh, leather and oak. The walls are clad in copper panels. Sometimes angular and solid, sometimes rounded and open, the walls shape the character of the room. The stone floor is elegant and cooler, its gentle irregular shimmer evoking images of the tamped earth floors of traditional old buildings. The ceiling covering, which is fully fitted with stainless steel mesh from GKD, creates a similar effect. It harmonizes perfectly with the architectural idea that Thulstrup describes as an interplay of opposites:“A room full of drama and peace. A room that remains true to the place and yet is not anchored in a particular culture.”Curved ceiling characterizes architectureThe character comes through most strongly in the dining room. Fabric panels spanning the room curve down on one side to meet the backs of the benches. The architectural mesh is a striking element in the design of the room. It underpins the intimate and protected atmosphere, while appearing light and flexible. Thulstrup also uses the weave structure to create subdued lighting effects.The ceiling is divided into 13 panels of GKD Baltic mesh, each approximately one meter wide. The length of the panels varies between 6 and 11 meters depending on whether they also serve as a vertical curtain down to the seats or end where they meet the vertical wall cladding. “The fabric diffuses the light as though it were another culinary ingredient,” says Marc Alonso, Architect and Market Manager for Northern Europe and UK at GKD. “Because our stainless steel mesh is completely recyclable, it also fits with the head chef’s sustainable ethos. This is a project in which our fabric is perfectly integrated into the whole by creating harmony and contrasts in juxtaposition with the other materials,” explains Alonso. That’s what the jury of the Wallpaper* Design Award 2023 think too: they awarded Ikoyi best restaurant of the year.