"wall finishes internal"

Bath Western Riverside development is a multi-award-winning project for client Crest Nicholson Regeneration. The project has won multiple awards including the coveted NHBC ‘Pride in the Job’ award for H&S and the seal of excellence for quality.Systems in useExcel®ChallengesThe ‘curved’ bulk-heads, walls and interior finishes presented a special challenge to our on-site team, one that would be present over multiple floors and apartments.The system needed to be both robust and aesthetically pleasing, as the roofs are overlooked by residents and used as amenity spaces, and the colour had to be in keeping with the traditional Bath stone.In addition to this, the project featured many unique and complex terraces in terms of shape, threshold height, u-value requirements and access.SolutionsTo achieve both a level threshold and a good thermal performance, we designed a unique tapered insulation scheme for the terraces, utilising our Excel system, reinforced bitumen waterproofing membrane, in combination with our high performance and cost effective Hytherm VIP (Vacuum Packed Insulation) insulation scheme.To meet the aesthetics guidelines dictated by the local planning authority, the capsheet membrane was specified with a white granular finish, which provided the unique look the authorities were looking for.To ensure the terraces were installed correctly and in accordance with Axter requirements, we worked in close partnership with the development construction team. In conjunction with Avonside, a ‘traffic light’ system was introduced to ensure that each individual terrace had been checked by our Quality Assurance team, that it had been independently integrity tested and that it was installed in accordance with the architect’s details, upon which the guarantees were issued and the finishes thereafter installed.

CUPA PIZARRAS’ CUPA 18 natural slate has been used to achieve a high-quality finish on three luxury, modern, new build properties in one of the most desirable areas of Whitstable in Kent. The new properties, built by local property designer and developer specialist Kapra Developments, are located in Island Wall, Whitstable, close to both the town centre and the scenic Kent coastline. The three storey, five bedroom luxury properties are each in excess of 360 square metres and benefit from views over the nearby golf course.  The unique design of the houses features extensive use of dark grey aluminium glazing systems including rooftop lanterns and large sloping roof windows. The placement of the expansive glazing as well as the layout and orientation of the buildings was devised to maximize the natural light and make the most of the surrounding landscape. In addition to the CUPA 18 natural slate, the design also includes high quality natural timber cladding, sedum green roofing and natural stone blockwork. Kim Brown, Director at Kapra Developments explained: “For the properties on Island Wall, the quality of the materials was very important and the coastal location meant that a durable product was essential. We had used CUPA PIZARRAS’ products on previous projects and so we were confident that the CUPA 18 slate would provide the look, quality and longevity we wanted.” CUPA 18 is a lighter grey slate with a smooth matt surface and has a superior, homogenous finish with only minor variations allowed in the thickness and flatness of the slate. The slate roofs were installed by Bates (Kent), a family owned contractor based near Canterbury, who has worked with Kapra Developments on a number of previous projects. David Clarke, Company Secretary at Bates said: “The Island Wall properties presented a few complexities and challenges due to the steep pitch of the roof and the need to integrate the slate with the other elements such as the large format glazing.  “We’ve used CUPA products on a number of contracts and found the slates very easy to work with. The strength and quality of the slates means that we are able to reduce the amount of wastage compared with other products.” Kim Brown concluded: “To achieve the intended result for these properties has required hard work from everyone involved. We are once again delighted with CUPA PIZARRAS’ products and are pleased with how that element of the build has progressed.” CUPA PIZARRAS’ natural slate is sustainably extracted from quarries in northern Spain. It has an exceptional life span of 100 years and requires minimal maintenance throughout its lifetime.

Having won a bid for £15m of capital funding in 2020, Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust (BHT) commissioned a new children’s emergency department – including upgraded, expanded facilities and a new overnight observation ward – at Stoke Mandeville Hospital in Aylesbury.Completed in March 2023, the 3,500m2 extension not only provides a dedicated area for children but has also freed up much-needed capacity for adult patients in the existing emergency department, and has reduced overcrowding and improved infection control. The plans also included new facilities to improve access to maternity and gynaecology outpatient services in a modern, purpose-built environment. The buildings adjacent to the children’s department house the hospital’s A&E department and maternity ward, so it was crucial that construction could go ahead without causing any disruption to day-to-day access.Throughout the project, the emergency department drop-off route, blue light route, maternity drop-off route, and A&E entrance remained in use at all times. Designed by London-based architects Hunters, the two-storey buildingwas made using modern methods of construction (MMC) at the main contractor Western Building Systems’ purpose-built in-house manufacturing facilities in Northern Ireland.The decision to build using modular construction resulted in minimal disruption to the hospital, both in terms of number of deliveries and overall time to build. Hospital buildings require many services to be installed so the subcontractors worked closely together, supported by quantity surveyors from MESH Construction Consultancy Limited. Steel structure modules were made at the Western Building Systems factory in Coalisland to form the frame of the building. They were then sheathed in 12mm cement particle boards and wrapped in breather membrane.The modular design specified an efficient, certified External Wall Insulation (EWI) system that met all stringent safety standards. EWI systems have huge thermal benefits for any building by conserving energy, minimising heat loss and reducing CO2 emissions. In addition to this, having a fully certified non-combustible solution offers great peace of mind, as well as a fast-track way to provide an attractive and durable façade.  Once the frame was in place on site, render and EWI specialists from Clarke ECO Wall Ltd installed Saint-Gobain Weber’s webertherm XM – a system they are familiar with, having used it on projects previously, including University Hospital Limerick.The EWI system included webertherm MFD mineral fibre insulation board with carbon tip screw fixings, weberend LAC rapid adhesive render coat and silicone enhanced webersil TF decorative finish. This building was made up of two types of wall: one which used 170mm of external insulation and achieved a U-Value of 0.12 W/m2K and another which used just 70mm of webertherm MFD yet still reached a U-Value of 0.18 W/m2K. Both were combined with additional insulation installed within the frame. The system was finished using webersil TF – a highly weather-resistant silicone decorative finish – in Winter White. “The team from Weber were very helpful,” said Michael Clarke, managing director of Clarke ECO Wall Ltd. “They provided all the specification and completed the necessary pull-out tests, fixing patterns and condensation analysis – ensuring everything was approved and there were no grey areas – and offered our team application support while carrying out the work. They took a very collaborative approach.”A representative from Weber made weekly site visits to support the applicators to ensure the system was installed in line with Weber’s recommended best practice. The EWI system was installed in two phases, totalling eight weeks, between April and November 2022.

Project: Deloitte Churchill Square, Prague Segment: Office Country/city: Czech Republic/Prague Architect: Atelier Kunc Architects Installer: Farrao International S.r.o. Photographer: Peter Fabo Project size: 1,337 m2

A coastal environment can be one of the harshest for a building to withstand so when a Grade 2 listed, Victorian kiosk was due to be relocated and renovated on the Brighton seafront, Renderplas PVC beads were immediately sourced for the internal plasterwork.

The requirement for a fast track flooring and durable solution would be well-suited to international flooring specialist Gerflor who would supply their amazing GTI Max flooring. This would prove it’s worth in saving both time and money.

Location: LondonClient: Knight DragonContractors: Kier and WatesArchitect: Squire and Partners, CF Moller, Jestico + WhilesAspex supplied: PAS24 Entrance Doorsets, Communal Doorsets, Internal Doorsets, Ironmongery, Signage & Mailboxes

Six of our large raised planters can be found in the walled garden of the historic Hopton Hall on the outskirts of the Peak District. The hall has a rich 600-year heritage and has hosted the likes of Oliver Cromwell and Mary Queen of Scots. Today the hall is a privately owned home with holiday cottage accommodation. Its beautiful gardens are open to the public, who travel from all over the world to see its famous snowdrop displays in spring and its fragrant rose garden in summer.The kitchen garden sits within the walled rose garden and is used to grow vegetables, herbs and varieties of pollinator-friendly flowers.There are two rows of three raised planters. This area of the garden is sloped, therefore the planters needed to be built into it to maximise the space large beds have been built into the slope.Hopton’s head gardener opted for high planters for ease of access and each design is 0.85m high.WoodBlocX modular planters are a popular choice for parks and gardens. The combination of versatile design and superior finish means the structures work well in historical and heritage settings and equally well within modern schemes by simply switching from traditional to contemporary capping, which sits flush with the structure.Raised planters can also be designed with integrated seating and in bespoke shapes and sizes, and we offer all clients a Free Design Service which will visualise your design in a series of CAD views.Bei

A college campus, designed with student experiences in mind, has invested in a series of litter bins to ensure a clean and tidy welcome.Newcastle College, part of Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group (NSCG), is a close neighbour of Broxap Street Furniture.It consists of a £65 million campus and a £5.5 million Performing Arts Centre.NSCG is the first further education provider in England to achieve the top grades in every area of Ofsted’s reformed Education Inspection Framework (EIF).Ofsted’s inspection report, published in November 2019, praised all areas of the College’s provision and acknowledged NSCG’s ‘positive, stimulating and safe learning environment’.Its recent order with Broxap included 30 Derby Wall Litter Bins. Manufactured from galvanised steel, the 80-litre capacity bins are polyester powder coated Anthracite Grey and feature the Tidyman logo in silver with laser cut lettering.Eleven Westleigh Litter Bins were also delivered to site.The 75-litre Westleigh bins also feature a galvanised steel structure, powder coated Anthracite Grey to match the Derby Wall Litter Bins.The front opening door is finished with five Iroko hardwood slats.The litter bins were supplied by Broxap in time for the launch of a series of college tours and open events, giving prospective students and their families the chance to explore the campus and its learning and social spaces.

Architect: Allford Hall Monaghan MorrisInstaller: LacunarProduct: Gustafs Linear Ribs60m2 and around 500 individual ribs were installed to the walls and ceiling of the link bridge at the AHMM offices in London. Ribs were specified in varying depths and white foil wrapping for a subtle, textured, modern finish.“Having worked with GUSTAFS on previous projects such as Leonard Street, we knew to expect a quality product when specifying our own offices, AHMM City. As elsewhere in the fit out, we looked to use proprietary components in a new way.Installed on a tapered bridge linking two buildings with differing levels and heights, the installation on both walls and the ceiling provides an acoustic buffer between our open plan offices and meeting rooms.We specified white veneered GLS ribs of varying depths to amplify the unusual geometry of the space. Referencing Bridget Riley, we created a subtle visual illusion of increased width when crossing between the spaces.The LSA team ensured that the complex intersections we had developed were resolved and installed on site to a standard exceeding our expectations.”Lizi Cushen, Project Architect – AHMM“We have worked together for many years because the GUSTAFS team contribute to the collaborative process from inception to execution.”Simon Allford, Director – AHMM

Newham Hospital provides all the services expected of a local hospital including emergency care, surgery, children’s health, women’s health, maternity services, specialist medicine, long-term care and diagnostics.They see more than 500 patients in their A&E department every day and have one of the largest maternity units in the UK with more than 6,000 births each year. Their state-of-the-art Rainbow Centre is fully geared up to meet the needs of their young patients and their families in a child-friendly environment and are dementia friendly across the whole site.This project was a conversion of the first floor office space to form a 24 bed ward at this busy London Hospital.The client chose Dfendoors in American White Oak and Peppermint to create a really effective contrasting finish.This was cleverly matched with the Dfend wall protection products.

The Buckland Hospital, Dover is a community hospital that provides a range of local services. Main contractor Interserve PLC enlisted Industrial Construction (Sussex) Ltd to install the roofing and cladding package. Fixfast products were the first choice for ICS and the Facade Support range was an obvious need for this type of contract; coupled with the DrillFast® Stainless and Lacquered products, the external roofing and cladding was installed in the finest possible manner.The external walls use a range of materials - black brick and through-coloured render serve as a background for two types of cladding panels: white fibre cement panels and timber laminated panels manufactured from kraft paper and finished with natural timber veneers. The dark colour of the brick is used as a medium to enhance the crisp lines of the bright cladding as well as the shape and colours of the wooded bank at the rear of the building.

On this fast turnaround project we worked closely with Clarke Penman Architecture to manufacture and install polished concrete kitchen worktops and splash-backs.Concrete worktops are extremely strong and durable and designed to withstand busy family use. These were cast to the client’s individual and unique specifications using our BTX Ultra High Performance Concrete mix with a hydrophobic agent to limit moisture absorption. The worktops were cut to fit various kitchen appliances and then treated and sealed to make them stain proof.Spanning over 6 metres, separate large BTX concrete panels were carefully assembled on site and fitted with brass sink and taps by our experienced team. The finished effect is a modern, industrial look that complements client’s design style and blends perfectly with the raw plastered walls and concrete floors, which together create a truly unique and highly functional kitchen.

Architect: Austin-Smith:LordInstaller: Lacunar LtdProduct: Gustafs Panel SystemOver 400m2 of Gustafs Panel System was installed to the walls of the Birmingham Royal Ballet during their £2.7m refurbishment in 2015. Acoustic panels were installed to two ballet rehearsal studios as well as the new informal performance space.In addition to the visual refurbishment of the space; the regeneration project aimed to improve the facility by upgrading the lighting, heating and ventilation, and accessibility, as well as improving administration and welfare areas.A mix of of SM5 and SM8 mini slotted acoustic perforations as well as nano acoustic perforations were used on the Birch, Oak, and White laminate faced panels. Slotted perforation styles give an elegant and dramatic finish to the panels whilst Nano perforations are almost invisible on the face of the panel, all three options provide up to Class B acoustic performance.

The ETB building is dedicated to research, development and demonstration (RD&D) in sustainable energy technologies. It incorporates energy efficient materials and is designed to minimise its demands for heating, cooling, lighting and ventilation. It actually produces more energy than it requires, heating the neighbouring Institute of Mental Health Building.Approximately 1000m2 of Ash & Lacy Façade was specified on the building’s two main elevations in the VariAL CF1 configuration. VariAL CF1 is a concealed-fix, baffle-jointed cassette rainscreen with a fully adjustable support system, primarily used for horizontal application on walls and for soffits. Designed to fit in with the high-tech building design and to appear to exude their own energy, the panels were manufactured in Alucobond Spectra Sacura ACM finish. This provides a quite stunning two-tone iridescent effect that shows ever changing hues of pink and silver that constantly vary as the angle of view or illumination changes.

Natural sunlight and space were two of the key objectives for this extension located in South London. The client, an artist, writer, and former fine arts lecturer, had recently moved to London from Oxfordshire to be closer to her family, and was looking to produce a peaceful, tranquil space to help improve creativity when at work.“I had no fixed ideas about what I wanted, but I wanted more space because it was very small, very dark and I just needed to breathe” Client via Evening Standard.Looking to update this Victorian house into a future proof property, Atelier Baulier Architects worked with the client to achieve the radical vision of a virtually half opened roof through the use of a rooflight. Our Multi-Part Flushglaze rooflight was specified at just short of 8 metres which immerses the entire extension in daylight making the 21 sq. m. space feel much larger, hoping to improve the client’s productivity and focus. The art studio is located under the doubleheight volume, enjoying even light levels throughout the day. The writing room takes the vantage point of the mezzanine above the bathroom and is accessed from the first floor level through an opening made in the gable.Keen to retain discreet detailing to ensure the rooflight framing wasn’t distracting from the design, the Multi Part Rooflight was specified with silicone joints, as opposed to aluminium balustrades, making the product much sleeker. To help daylight flood the room even further, the unit was specified with three Wall Abutments on the high left and right side. The Wall Abutments are not visible from the internal view, this helped to enhance the desired discreet detailing.As stated, the rooflight was supplied in three sections with the frameless silicone joints segmenting each section; the three sections were sized to achieve an equal split when viewed from underneath. This meant that the end sections had to be larger to account for the upstand width.“We aimed to maximise the potential of this unusual site. Rather than subdividing the space the programme is housed within one continuous volume, allowing the daylight to flow through.” Aurore Baulier, Director, Atelier Baulier ArchitectsWith the house being located in a conservation area, the extension naturally blends in with its outstanding surroundings. Brickwork is a major part of this Victorian cottage and its extension. The new volume is a wood-fibre insulated timber construction overclad with bricks slips, resulting in a much lower carbon footprint than a traditional masonry wall. On the interior, brick slips dress the walls continuing the pattern created by the whitewashed brickwork of the existing gable.Atelier Baulier Architects worked brilliantly to maintain the nostalgic look of the building whilst also transforming it into a contemporary home, with the use of a glass rooflight proving to be successful in adding a vast amount of light and space to the originally dark and gloomy Victorian house.

When the school urgently needed to replace their existing wooden floor in their main hall due to flooding, they turned to international flooring specialist Gerflor to supply over 600m2 of their world-renowned Taraflex® Performance vinyl sports flooring.

To ensure that a fabulous training surface would be available at the ground, Kent County Cricket Club turned to Architects PDP London who in turn specified Taraflex® vinyl sports flooring from international flooring specialist Gerflor.

A newly built Queensferry High School in Edinburgh, replacing the one currently in use, has had its internal fit-out completed ahead of schedule after the project was speeded up through the use of SMARTPLY PATTRESS PLUS.

With the ability to power over 590,000 UK homes from a total capacity of 660 mw, Walney Extension is set to be the biggest offshore wind farm in the world when it is commissioned at the end of 2018.The project is 100% owned by Ørsted and required a new cable corridor to be installed to its Electrical Substation near Heysham.The BriefProtecting Critical National Infrastructure in the Utilities Industry presents a number of challenges that had to be overcome.External Perimeter to offer guaranteed delay against attackAll fencing to be earthed or offer non conductive featuresInternal Fencing to include multiple systems including Rigid Mesh and GRP in same fence lineExternal Perimeter and Physical Access Control to be compatible with power fencing (electric fencing) to meet security requirementsInternal Fencing to be base plated

"Boyco did an exceptional job of meeting our unique requirements on this project, and it didn’t stop at the initial installation! Boyco’s installers were regularly on hand to find innovative solutions to unexpected problems arising in the challenging environment – in particular children trying to climb on top of the Teaching Walls. I am very impressed with Boyco’s products and service and would recommend them to anybody looking for a bespoke solution for challenging environments." - Diane Hallworth, Bridglea PRUCHALLENGES & SOLUTIONSOn arrival for the installation, Boyco installers found that steel dado trunking had been installed along the Classroom walls, and the electric sockets were mislocated which caused them to clash with the electric source needed for the Teaching Walls. Our installers carried out all necessary remedial work to align the Teaching wall electrical access points to the wrongly positioned sockets on the dado trunking.After successful installation of the Teaching Walls, we were informed by Bridglea PRU that children had been climbing up the side of the Teaching Walls by suspending themselves between the Teaching Wall and the classroom wall–in an attempt to get on top of the Teaching Walls and climb inside the cabinets. Boyco supplied & installed bespoke infill boxes to the corner of the necessary Teaching Walls, to prevent pupils being able to gain any access to the roof of the Teaching Walls.

Lomax + Wood were selected, from the UK’s finest timber window specialists, to design and produce a range of premium quality oak windows and doors for the Standard Groups first UK hotel. The building, a local landmark was previously the Camden Town Annexe with a brutalist seventies style, now reimagined as the “new cultural crossroads of London”.Lomax + Wood were selected, from the UK’s finest timber window specialists, to design and produce a range of premium quality oak windows and doors for the Standard Groups first UK hotel. The building, a local landmark was previously the Camden Town Annexe with a brutalist seventies style, now reimagined as the “new cultural crossroads of London”.Made-to-order oak windows and doors to the ground floor and eighth.15 Box sash windows with bespoke under panels.8 Curved on Plan fixed casements.34 Fixed casements.17 Single doorsets.10 Sliding doorsets.3 Double doorsets.1 Bifold doorset3 Casements with bespoke under panels.Specialist ancillary joineryEuropean oak timber specified with OSMO 420 clear UV oil finish externally and internally.Bespoke sections machined to accommodate additional thickness of specialist glass units.Glass was a key factor in the design process, specialist 13.5mm laminated outer pane/12mm cavity and 11.5mm inner pane (37mm overall) was required to meet the acoustic requirements of the project, provide solar control and give as neutral an appearance as possible. Specific glass marks required.Bespoke Curved on Plan units with curved glass sourced from a European specialist.Black ceramic coating to hide air conditioning units behind on specific frames.The overall requirement was for a ‘handmade look’, with internal and external linings added to the ground floor windows and a dummy peg detail on the corners. All the ironmongery was bespoke with some handles for the ground floor reception and bar areas by Forms & Surfaces, sourced from U.S.A. Door cylinders were also bespoke as an additional length was required to accommodate the unusual frame thickness.Design required to adapt stable door details to accommodate panic bolt hardware for garden area.The bell boy entrance door was a particularly unusual detail for Lomax + Wood with a bespoke aluminium cover with circular cut outs, manufactured to cover the timber door behind.Overall the project was challenging but Lomax + Wood specialise in producing high performance, made-to-order timer windows and doors to meet our clients specification and aesthetic requirements. It is important to note that the oil finish does require high maintenance and will not be viable in all situations.In addition to timber windows and doors we also provide aluminium composite products which are on display, with our traditional range at our head offices in Essex.

Project detailsIn 2008 the MPT consortium* was awarded the Manchester’s Metrolink phase 3a extension project, a 49 stop, £275 million extension to the Manchester Metro. The new build allowed contractors to shop around for the best products for the job, but one essential product could not be found. Throughout this three-year development, best practice and user health and safety have been the priorities. Steps were designed to minimise risk of trips and slips for pedestrians, the disabled and visually impaired. Each of the 1,400 pre-cast concrete steps on the new platforms required a non-slip front edge and MPT scoured the world for suitable products. The design criteria required that the nosing would be: Suitable for heavy use in an external environment Compliant to the Building Regulation Part M Providing a solution in accordance with BS8300 2009 Inner B Code of Practice, against the finished concrete in both wet and dry conditions Our solution Adrian Rowe, MPT Engineering Manager and his team tested a wide range of products, short listing three, including Firm-Step Edge®. Our product met the design criteria but was unavailable in the required specification, size and colour. Not wanting to let this opportunity pass us by, we took up the challenge and developed an exclusive version of Firm-Step Edge® in black, with a 70mm tread and 55mm riser. “Watco was brilliant in sorting out our problem, giving us excellent service throughout. They understood our needs and delivered prototypes in a week. They also developed an exclusive version of their Firm-Step Edge®, in the specified black shade, with a 70mm tread and 55mm riser that fitted on to the rebated precast step to keep the nosing flush. It also had perfect internal angles so it sat snugly on the standard profile of the nose on the precast concrete steps.” Following the first installation in February 2011, Firm-Step Edge® is now being screwed and bonded to steps at every stop along the 49 stop extensions. Firm-Step Edge® is an economical, quick to install safety feature. Firm-Step Edge® offers a tough GRP base that is resistant to stretching, warping and swelling. We offer two grades; medium for internal and coarse for external stairs, both of which are easily glued using Watco Adhesive Mastic or drilled for screw fixing. The textured finish offers excellent slip-resistance and a chamfered back edge minimises trip potential. Available in white or yellow, Firm-Step Edge® can be cut on site if required using a hacksaw or similar cutting tool or we offer a cut to size service. *MPT (M. Pact Thales) is a consortium comprising Laing O’Rourke, VolkerRail and Thales UK.

In May 2018, Australia’s visionary theatre, La Mama, was destroyed by fire. Thanks to the generosity and hard work of The La Mama Community, this iconic theatre has now reopened to the public and UltraScape are delighted to have played a part in its restoration.BackgroundLocated in Victoria, Australia, La Mama Theatre is home to responsive, inclusive and diverse independent theatre making. With a reputation steeped in visionary arts, La Mama Theatre is the number one destination for audiences to discover the next generation of theatre artists.The ChallengeA fire devastatingly destroyed this much-loved theatre in May 2018. The damage was so extensive, La Mama theatre needed to be completely rebuilt. Part of the restoration included an additional structure to the front of the theatre and new paved area.The SolutionThe incredible La Mama community raised over $3,400,000 to help restore the theatre back to its former glory. To grout the Recycled Brick Paving at the theatre, Instarmac International’s Australian partners, and specialist paving distributors, Prolific Stone International, supplied UltraScape flowpoint smooth.Greysea Group, the contractors completing the paving installation, have been using flowpoint since it was first introduced into Australia in 2020.UltraScape flowpoint smooth is a flowable grout which allows for large areas of paving to be grouted quickly. Suitable for joints from 3mm to 50mm and as deep as 200mm, flowpoint smooth has been developed over a number of years to provide a durable finish which will not crack or stain – even in the hot Australian temperatures.With an initial set after just 15 minutes, and a walk on time of one hour, it is unsurprising that flowpoint smooth has become synonymous with fast application, cost-effective and robust jointing.UltraScape flowpoint is available in four varieties – original, eco, smooth and fine – and two colours – Natural Grey and Charcoal. UltraScape have jointing solutions for all designs and tastes.ResultsLa Mama Theatre opened to the public in December 2021 with great applause. The newly refurbished theatre is fully accessible, has a dedicated rehearsal space, new bar, green room and mezzanine floor for their next generation of theatre artists to perform on.

The high performance weberend MT multi-coat render system has been applied as the exterior finish on the new-build Woodward Close, a pioneering 60-bed dementia care home in Winnersh, Berkshire.This project has been developed by specialist care home developer Castleoak, Cardiff, for national care operator The Abbeyfield Society.Designed to meet Abbeyfield’s innovative dementia design strategy, this new care home comprises intimate circular bedroom wings which minimise corridors and lead to communal spaces to aid way finding and spatial recognition. Ground floor rooms have patio door access to garden space and internal links to safe and secure inner courtyard gardens. It has been carefully planned to provide a unique approach in residential care for those living in the local area in a manner which hasn’t been seen before.The complex clover leaf layout of the five linked buildings has been achieved using timber frame construction with much of the fabrication carried out off-site including the curved outer skin formed by the render carrier board for the weberend MT system. This off-site construction method reduced time and cost early in the build program, overcoming the requirement of bricklayers and bricks, resulting in a cleaner and tidier site and substantially reducing the on-site program.The weberend MT multi-coat render system by Weber, the leading UK formulator and manufacturer of innovative materials, systems and solutions for the construction industry, has full BBA Certification. This accreditation meets NHBC requirements for new build housing where house builders and developers are constantly seeking modern methods of construction for speed and cost efficiency. The weberend MT system is designed to rapidly finish buildings of frame and panel construction.weberend MT is a light-weight render system which incorporates glass-fibre meshcloth reinforcement with a resin-rich adhesive coat that can carry a choice of finishes in a wide range of colours. This modern render system is designed for large areas of stable render carrier boards without the need for expressed joints to create smooth, modern design aesthetics. Equally, weberend MT is ideal for application to uneven masonry or mixed substrates where a high level of crack resistance is required. Application on to a panel background requires an initial 3mm of weberend LAC. The glass fibre reinforcing mesh is laid in as this coat takes up and a second 3mm of weberend LAC is applied. Sponge finish achieves a flat surface. When fully dry, weber PR310 primer is applied prior to the selected finish. A variety of textured and coloured finishes can be used to produce weatherproof, vapour permeable protection.The weberend MT application was carried out by WHS Exterior Rendering Limited, Bristol, whose director Nick Hood is enthusiastic about this project. “It was really interesting to see this unique design and the fast build program achieved with off-site construction. It gave us a great finished board to work on and as always the weberend MT system is first class. It’s straight forward to apply and the finish is excellent. It involved 1900m² of hand application and four pastel colours really make the buildings attractive and welcoming."Castleoak’s project construction manager Dean Hamblin reports positive comments on the render finish of the buildings. “People are remarking how sharp the buildings look, that’s sharp in colours and sharp in straight surfaces and edges,” advises Mr Hamblin.Woodward Close offers a wide range of highly innovative communal facilities, including a cinema, activity rooms for painting and sewing, a restaurant and a cafe, sensory rooms and wellbeing areas including spa bathrooms, a hair and nail salon, a library, and a shop stocked with groceries.In terms of design, memorabilia and reminiscence will be a strong focus across the development. There will be classic cars and bikes in the grounds and a vintage theme prominent throughout the interior decor. It is hoped that this vision and the calibre of the building will act as a blueprint for future Abbeyfield care homes

Decommissioned in the late 20th century and the Triplets have now been restored and currently reside in their new home north of Regents Canal, facilitating new studio apartments. For the new renovation, it would have been a shame not to include any cast metal components, which have been deeply imbedded into London’s habitat over the years. AATi were on hand to deliver Cast Gunmetal SN30/60 anti-slip stair nosings along with curved Gunmetal anti-slip Floor Plates as pictured right. These Floor Plates suit the external radius of the Gas Holder Triplets.

Knolly’s House, a residential block of flats in London, required refurbishment works to the internal communal walkways and concrete stairwells as the existing waterproofing had reached the end of its serviceable life. The waterproofing needed to be fast cure as the communal balconies were the only access to the flats. Therefore, Proteus Waterproofing specified Pro-BW® Plus system.High Performance WaterproofingAs constant access was required by the residents, a fast cure waterproofing system was vital. Pro-BW® Plus was selected as it can be fully installed in three stages, each only taking forty-five minutes to cure before allowing foot traffic. Pro-Aggregate EM was incorporated for a slip resistant finish. Proteus Waterproofing worked closely with the Proteus Approved Contractor to ensure the project was completed to a high standard, including an aesthetically pleasing finish.Health and SafetyTo minimise disruption to residents, particularly on communal walkways which may also form the fire escape routes, the waterproofing system needed to be fast cure. Proteus Waterproofing’s liquid applied systems are cold installed and therefore remove the risk of fire to the building. The low noise application also allowed the Proteus Approved Contractor to complete the works safely.Long Term PerformancePro-BW® Plus is a high performance, rapid curing protective waterproofing membrane for balconies and walkways making it ideal for refurbishment where structural movement has occurred. Pro-BW® Plus reduces installation time from days to hours. Suitable for a variety of external applications, Pro-BW® Plus can be installed on concrete & asphalt for communal and private balconies, walkways, staircases and pedestrian ramps. As it is a cold applied installation, the system meets health and safety criteria by minimising risk to both operatives and members of the public. Pro-BW® Plus is BBA Certified and manufactured in the UK.

The Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon has undergone an ambitious and exciting £112m project to install a brand new auditorium inside the skeleton of the art-deco original. The internal refit created some interesting acoustical challenges. One of the most important aspects of the project was to ensure that theatre performances were not disturbed by noise from other parts of the building. In particular, the gantry – from where scenery changes and lighting are managed – was identified as requiring a specialised acoustic solution, to stop the noise of people working behind the scenes from carrying through to the audience. This is where CMS Danskin stepped in.The SolutionAs soft flooring subcontractors on the project, Loughton Contracts installed CMS High Impact Mat in the gantry. Composed of reclaimed rubber, EPDM granulate and PUR binder, CMS High Impact Mat is a durable, environmentally friendly type of floor covering that reduces excess sound, prevents unwanted noise and has excellent impact reduction. CMS High Impact Mat is available in a variety of thicknesses and colours. Simple to install, LoughtonContracts fitted 573m² of blue, 10mm thick CMS High Impact Mat onto wooden, concrete and screeded floor areas in the theatre gantry. As a non-reflective, slip and tear resistant material that meets the highest safety standards, it provides a safe surface for an area of the theatre where there is constant movement of scenery, people and heavy lighting.CMS High Impact Mat also has other qualities which made it the preferred specification for this refurbishment. As well as providing high acoustic performance, it offers an aesthetic, ‘final floor finish’ which is warm underfoot and has anti-fatigue properties. It creates an attractive, comfortable and quiet working environment in the gantry, as well as contributing to the quality finish that runs throughout the theatre.

Dual finish wooden windows and doors were used in the renovation of this delightful 1900’s Arts and Crafts style property. The family chose from the Lomax + Wood made-to-order range of timber flush casements and doors.42 Double glazed fully weather-stripped flush casement windows, French doors and entrance doors.Dual colour factory finished paint colour. White internally and Squirrel grey externally.Engineered timber for stability and durability.Espagnolette locking for security.Faceted bay windows.Polished chrome ironmongery.Creating your dream home is not always easy and finding the right plot and location is half the battle. So when the proud owners of this beautifully renovated 1900’s Arts and Crafts style property found it, they recognised the potential. They have taken a period property and renovated it to exacting standards to create a stunning family home with luxury features to maximise their use of it all year round.Lomax + wood timber window and doors were in keeping with the required Arts and Crafts style, while also providing thermal, acoustic and security performance. This country residence is an excellent example of the highest quality craftsmanship. The materials used on the property such as the green oak, clay tiles and bricks reflect the local traditions and are in keeping with the local architecture.This stunning property boasts a feast of traditionally styled timber windows and doors. An excellent use of projecting bays helps to add space and light to the rooms. Dormer Windows with traditional patterned tile hung gables adding arts and crafts character. Juliet balconies help maximise the green views from the master bedroom. The perfect choice of colour allows these windows to blend in with the external traditional materials on this property, while the white interior prevents the rooms from appearing too dark.

BackgroundLocated on a hill overlooking the union of the Sambre and Meuse rivers, the Citadelle of Namur has witnessed ‘millions of years of geological history and two thousand years of human history’.In 2021, cable cars were added to the extensive list of attractions at the Citadelle, giving visitors beautiful panoramic views of Namur.The ChallengeThe Citadelle is an extremely popular tourist attraction and therefore an extensive downtime was not possible. To coincide with their exciting new addition, paving was installed at the entrance to the cable cars and surrounding the exhibition centre. It was critical that the paving was installed with durable materials that would withstand heavy foot traffic, and would also provide a stunning finish suitable for the historic environment.The SolutionWith over 25 years’ experience providing the world with BS 7533 compliant paving installation materials, UltraScape was an obvious choice to use at this exciting location.Supplied by Instarmac International’s Belgian partner, Nijst Natuursteen, UltraScape flowpoint rapid set flowable grout was used to joint 800sqm of paving at the Citadelle.UltraScape flowpoint smooth is a flowable grout which allows for large areas of paving to be grouted quickly. Suitable for joints from 3mm to 50mm and as deep as 200mm, flowpoint smooth has been developed over a number of years to provide a durable finish which will not crack or stain – even in the hottest and coldest of temperatures.With an initial set after just 15 minutes, and a walk on time of one hour, it is unsurprising that flowpoint smooth has become synonymous with fast application, cost-effective and robust jointing.UltraScape flowpoint is available in four varieties – original, eco, smooth and fine – and two colours – Natural Grey and Charcoal. UltraScape have jointing solutions for all designs and tastes.ResultsThe work was completed in 2021 and visitors to the stunning and historic Citadelle are now enjoying a beautifully paved area whilst in line for the cable cars.

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

The buildability and speed of installation was one of the reasons we chose this composite panel system from Tata Steel. Using the Trisomet system also meant we could select the optimum insulation thickness for enabling control of the internal climate of the building.

Brett Martin supplied Marlon Clickfix VF to create striking facades in the new-build Cheltenham Muscat School in Oman. This is founded by Cheltenham UK and is not only their first international sister school but also Oman’s first premium British school.

Becket Keys School specified an area where international flooring specialist Gerflor made a positive difference by supplying some 680m2 of their outstanding high performance Taraflex® sports flooring in ‘Oak’ for the planned refurbishment of the new sports hall.

NV Buildings is one of the most prestigious and iconic residential sites in Greater Manchester.The distinctive sail-shaped buildings are a major landmark in Salford Quays. The blocks have a curved main elevation providing a unique aesthetic on the skyline and are one of the most popular developments in the area.With a prominent location in Salford Quays, adjacent to the Lowry Theatre and Media City TV headquarters, the apartment blocks feature in many iconic photos of the area.The project itself was funded by the Building Safety Fund, the Government’s £4.5 billion fund to remove unsafe non-ACM cladding on residential and mixed-use properties that are 18 metres and over and do not meet building safety regulations.Our Approved Installer QFF Facades were contracted to complete the exterior wall insulation and rendering which upgraded the fire performance of the cladding, ensuring the safety of both the building and residents.Three 15 storey blocks were refurbished, with a safe and thermally efficient façade solution.Our ServiceWe worked in close partnership with QFF Facades throughout the duration of the project.Deliveries and install were strictly monitored and a very systematic approach was followed. A planned install programme was agreed to ensure minimal disruption to the residents of N V Buildings, who remained in their homes while the work was carried out on this prestigious site.We produced a bespoke specification which included various detailing such as soffits, balconies, and full height panels.A partnership approach was vital, as we worked with QFF Facades, Thomasons Consulting engineering, and the fire officer to agree upon and deliver specific detailing at abutments, openings, and for the drained cavity of the façade system.Particular attention to detail was afforded to the drained cavity fire-stops, including fire-stop details between floors, at party walls for each apartment and around openings.As part of our service commitment, our technical team were available to provide hands-on-guidance, offer support, technical guidance and ensure high levels of quality.Technical Project DetailsAfter testing, the existing cladding had been deemed a fire safety risk by experts and therefore needed to be removed and replaced with anon-combustible alternative.The project was a strip-and-refit of a drained cavity external wall insulation system, which included an expanded polystyrene insulation system.Our Approved Installer QFF Facades installed a K Systems Exicco M, Drained Cavity External Wall Insulation System for steel frame buildings, utilising Mineral Wool insulation. This high performing system provides high levels of fire resistance and non-combustibility.The fire classification of the façade for N V Buildings was upgraded to A2-s1, d0 and therefore complies with the latest building regulations, ensuring the safety of its residents.For the finish, high-performance thin coat silicone render (Silicone TC) was specified. Our Silicone TC render has a number of fantastic advantages including ease of application, and its hydrophobic properties make the render low maintenance. Available in a wide range of colours the topcoat finish used on NV Buildings is a light grey to match the original façade, meaning aesthetically the iconic buildings maintained their distinctive design.

Flowers Gallery was first established in 1970 on Lisle Street in London’s West End, more recently moving into a 12,000 sq foot industrial space in Shoreditch, East London. Now, Flowers have two gallery spaces in London and one in the United States. Flowers participates regularly in art fairs internationally. The programme in both the UK and US comprises all media by established and emerging artists. The gallery is an active publisher of prints and multiples with an established department in contemporary international photography. When refurbished in 2014, Dan Flowers contacted GEC Anderson to produce a stainless steel worktop that would be incorporated into the gallery kitchen. The gallery kitchen is used on a daily basis by fifteen staff members and also by outside caterers that are hired to cater for exhibitions. The area is well used on a regular basis and needed to be long lasting and hygienic but also to look smart and professional. Architect, Felicity Atekpe, of White Table Interior Designs in relation to the kitchen “I was trying to get a different kind of space from the normal gallery and wanted it all to be hues of blues and moody (restful) with the stainless steel as the sparkle. Dan suggested GEC Anderson. At the time I showed them photographs which were stills from the Japanese film Floating Weeds by Yasujiro Ozu but they chickened out of painting the walls darker and the floor... You never know though, they might yet.”