"green applications resources sustainability"

Ancillary rooms to a total of seven operating theatres were upgraded with stainless steel worktops, base cabinets and wall cabinets by GEC Anderson.The ancillary rooms included anaesthetic and recovery areas, adjacent to the main theatres within the busy Heartlands Hospital in the Bordesley Green area of Birmingham.Stainless steel worktops with integrated sinks and watersafe edge profiles were specified throughout. Base cabinet and drawer cabinets were included at low level. At high level, stainless steel wall cabinets provided additional storage. Installation was handled by GEC Anderson and was conducted over two phases. An especially condensed installation period was met, to minimise disruption to the heavy workload associated with these vital areas within the hospital.

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

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

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.

This prestigious new development is comprised of 11 superb, terraced townhouses & cottages. Nestled just a stone’s throw away from the beautiful Ballycastle Marina, the exclusive development of The Quay Road Residences showcases a mix of stunning terraced townhouses and cottages.AG’s HomePave Cobble in Auburn was perfect for the new development adding character and warmth to the homes entrance and exterior. Complementing the stunning appearance of the house the driveway creates a bright and charming first impression for homeowners.Rumbled to give a rustic appearance, HomePave Cobble is known for its beautiful finished and distinctive colour with hard-wearing capabilities and exceptional long-lasting colours. Also available in a smooth finish, HomePave paving is extremely popular with homeowners and developers.The driveways benefit from HomePave’s tight joints which make it easy to install and maintain while also helping to prevent weeds. HomePave Cobble is supplied in a single size unit and also a mixed pack of three different sizes. A permeable and smooth option is also available.We understand the importance of sustainability and environmentally friendly practices. That’s why AG’s paving was chosen, meeting high sustainability standards. Our eco-conscious approach ensures that the townhouse development not only looks incredible but also minimises its impact on the environment, with 100% renewable energy used and 90% recycled water used in the manufacturing process, as well as being 100% recyclable.

This prestigious new development is comprised of 11 superb, terraced townhouses & cottages. Nestled just a stone’s throw away from the beautiful Ballycastle Marina, the exclusive development of The Quay Road Residences showcases a mix of stunning terraced townhouses and cottages.AG’s HomePave Cobble in Auburn was perfect for the new development adding character and warmth to the homes entrance and exterior. Complementing the stunning appearance of the house the driveway creates a bright and charming first impression for homeowners.Rumbled to give a rustic appearance, HomePave Cobble is known for its beautiful finished and distinctive colour with hard-wearing capabilities and exceptional long-lasting colours. Also available in a smooth finish, HomePave paving is extremely popular with homeowners and developers.The driveways benefit from HomePave’s tight joints which make it easy to install and maintain while also helping to prevent weeds. HomePave Cobble is supplied in a single size unit and also a mixed pack of three different sizes. A permeable and smooth option is also available.We understand the importance of sustainability and environmentally friendly practices. That’s why AG’s paving was chosen, meeting high sustainability standards. Our eco-conscious approach ensures that the townhouse development not only looks incredible but also minimises its impact on the environment, with 100% renewable energy used and 90% recycled water used in the manufacturing process, as well as being 100% recyclable.

Toploc provides sustainable cover for Solas Eco Garden CentreMarlon Toploc was the ideal canopy glazing solution for this impressive retractable canopy roof at the Solas Eco Garden Centre.  In addition to Marlon Toploc providing all of the characteristics required to realise the designers specification, product manufacturer, Brett Martin's values align perfectly with Solas when it comes to sustainability and a greener future. Solas is one of the few Eco Garden Centres in Ireland, providing an excellent, eco-friendly, customer experience.  Now employing over 100 people the Garden Centre brings a breath of fresh air to the local community.Clear Marlon Toploc panels provide 64% light transmission, flooding the area underneath with natural daylight to create a bright and airy outdoor space while providing shelter from the changeable Irish weather.In this instance, clear 16mm sevenwall Marlon Toploc panels were cold curved on-site and mounted in sections at three different heights to a retractable pulley, allowing the canopy roof to open. The Marlon Toploc panels are secured with the Marlon polycarbonate cap profile for a seamed finish on the canopy roof.Marlon Toploc polycarbonate panels are strong and durable and co-extruded with UV protection on both sides as standard to protect the panels and everything underneath from harmful UV rays. The Marlon Toploc standing seam system is light in weight making both installation and on-going movement of the retractable roof easy.

The Pears Building by Hopkins Architects is a world-class immunology research and treatment centre built for University College London. With only 5 similar specialist immunology centres in the world (and the only one outside of the US), the Pears Building offers world-class expertise to patients. The Pears Building provides offices, multiple research wings to house over 200 researchers and a 35-bed patient hospital for outpatients or visiting academics.At the centre of the building is a large atrium with joins the wider building and its office space to the public-facing café and entrance area. Vast, open windows flood interiors with huge amounts of natural light creating a soothing, and uncluttered feeling. Materials selected for the building were done for their sustainable credentials, ease of maintenance, durability, and cost.The Pears Building was designed to avoid becoming a “monolithic” structure and sits well within the local area. During its construction efforts were made to retain as many existing trees on the site as possible to ensure the village-esque feeling of Hampstead is uninterrupted. As expected with forward-thinking institutions, the architects endeavoured to achieve a BREEAM excellent rating, which it easily achieved with its holistic approach to sustainability.The Pears building uses Freshfield Lanes First Quality Multi in its construction and has been commended for numerous awards and won the Public Buildings award at the Construction News Awards.

The Chiswick Point development, at Bollo Lane, in West London, is a £20m contemporary mixed-use residential scheme offering 124 one, two and three bedroom residential apartments, including three penthouses. A sustainable approach was important, with all of the units designed to meet Level 4 of the Code for Sustainable Homes, and the Lifetime Homes code. Constructed in two blocks of six and nine storeys, the frame is mainly reinforced concrete, with the concrete frame floors and cladding providing thermal mass, which absorbs energy and slowly releases it to help reduce temperature fluctuations.Long continuous ribbon balconies provide solar shading to the two blocks and provide the residents with a very pleasant outlook across the London Wildlife Trust nature reserve at the rear of the development. The continuous balconies are a major feature of the scheme and with several hundred metres of them winding across the two blocks, effective thermal insulation was imperative if thermal bridging is to be avoided. To minimise any condensation problems and subsequent mould growth as a result, plus the avoidance of thermal outflow, Schöck Isokorb® T type K heat-insulating load-bearing elements are installed at various strategic positions along the large expanse of balconies. The Schöck Isokorb® T type K provides high thermal resistance by using stainless steel bars to act as tension and shear reinforcement, plus high-strength HTE pressure bearing modules.

Triton Square is an office building in London’s West End. It was originally designed in the 1990’s and has recently been transformed to suit today’s workstyles.The re-development included doubling the floor area and creating an exemplary sustainable and healthy workplace. It was essential that BREEAM guidelines were met. Large quantities of bespoke taps and soap dispensers were needed within a tight delivery timeframe. Water saving technology was also a major requirement.We worked closely with our customer to understand their goals and how best to achieve them. Our specifications teams discussed which products would be suitable, fit in with the contemporary design and would meet all regulatory requirements and presented options and recommendations. Our WRAS approved Electroflo Horizon touch-free electronic taps and soap dispensers were chosen due to their water-saving features, hygienic operation and modern style. The products were delivered and installed within budget and timescales.Testimonial“We had an urgent requirement for contemporary, water-saving bathroom products from a trusted supplier to conform with BREEAM regulations. We needed to successfully adopt a sustainable solution in a cost-effective manner. The Dudley Electroflo Horizon range was perfect for the job and they could also offer us an extended size and a variety of finishes. The expertise and service from the staff at TYDE were second to none and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.”

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.

Also the largest public cultural space in Europe, the new 35,000m² Library of Birmingham replaces the old Central Library and is seen by Birmingham City Council as a flagship project for the redevelopment of the city.Designed by architects Mecanoo, working with multi-discipline engineers Buro Happold and main contractor Carillion, the multi-tiered roof of the library features two garden terraces which have both contributed to the BREEAM Excellent rating.Radmat Approved Contractor Prater delivered a roofing solution that is BBA Certified to last ‘the life of the building’. Consisting of Radmat PermaQuik PQ6100 Hot Melt Monolithic waterproofing membrane, root resistant Cap Sheet and ProTherm inverted roof insulation, the entire roof was electronically tested for integrity prior to the installation of aluminum powder coated cappings to the perimeter roof upstands.Once the installation of the 7,500m. of PermaQuik PQ6100 roofing system on the roof and ground level podium deck was signed off by a Radmat Technical Adviser, Prater brought in specialist green roof contractor Frost Landscapes. They then carried out the installation of the complex intensive green roofs, at levels 3 and 7, which were created to attract local wildlife and to offer visitors a pleasant environment to enjoy all year round.Combining durability and flexibility with independent verification of life expectancy and a market leading guarantee the PermaQuik PQ6100 Hot Melt Monolithic waterproofing system is set to deliver exceptional performance befitting of the uniquely designed structure which has set a remarkably high standard for library design.With Radmat’s high performance roofing solution providing weathertight protection for years to come, the Library of Birmingham looks set to not only form the catalyst for further regeneration within the city but also how future libraries are designed and perceived by the user.

A clear first BREEAM certified public management structure where the building interior design demanded sharp attention to detail; Technowood was a clear choice. The saving on solid timber was a driving force in the decision process. Certified FSC and A2 FR were also important considerations when compared to sold timber. Happy New Service Building was designed by the Architectural Bureau.The Municipality new service building has been designed with a creative understanding which explores an interior that maximises the room use. Therefore, the space has an uplifting positivity to the vertical design.Project RequirementsThe building planning consent required ‘green building’ credentials. Furthermore, BREEAM-BESPOKE criteria were used in this project and BRE-GLOBAL prepared tailor-made criteria directly to the specific building type.Turkey’s first BREEAM certified building will be public; this project is expected to bring a lot of innovation including environmental sensitivity. Thus, it is foreseen that similar criteria will be applied in the future construction in the development region.Further, the main features of this project are a passive air conditioning system and natural lighting, double wall and gallery, economical water usage, recyclability of the material where possible. The enviro-friendly green roof and environment considerate plant preferences.Technowood satisfied all build requirements, the planning was especially happy with the aesthetics of such a diverse material. Invisibly fixed vertical columns solved the solution of the curved nature of the design; as well as the speed of installation which made the use of this wood finished product even more cost effective.Technowood is environmentally friendly, efficient to fit, FSC, A2 FR. By using Technowood this project has a timber consumption by 98%.Credits and Further informationInterior design     The Architectural BureauLocation                     TurkeyProject                        GOVERNMENT MUNICIPALITY COUNCIL CHAMBERMaterial                     Alu-Click Technowood Beams

Woolston Sixth Form College forms part of Woolston Learning Village, which also includes neighbouring schools Green Lane Special School and Fox Wood Special School. The college educates & supports students aged 16 – 19 years old who have a range of additional needs.Following the installation of a number of Twinfix canopies at Green Lane Special school over the last eight years, Twinfix were approached by Woolston College to design, manufacture and install canopies on two separate occasions over the last two years.The initial project involved fitting a twenty-five sqm canopy with vertical glazing to one of the classrooms at the site. The vertical glazing offered weather protection and an element of privacy for the students using the canopy.The College was so impressed with the process and the installed canopy that they requested a second canopy spanning thirty-two sqm a few months later.Both canopies have aluminium frames powder coated in blue RAL 5010. As this metal does not rust in use, they will keep their good looks throughout their long life. The structures comprise of Twinfix’s innovative Multi-Link-Panel Non-fragile (NF) roof glazing system fitted with tough 16mm opal multiwall polycarbonate. The NF denotes that these panels conform to the HSE’s recommended drop test ACR[M]001:2019, as recommended by HSG33.With safety of the students being paramount, protective foam pads were fitted to each supporting post to guard the children from bumps and bangs and anti-climb guttering was also included in the design for both structures.Not only do the new canopies provide additional safe space for students to play and learn, but it also enabled them to reap the benefits that come with being outdoors.

Porth Transport Hub is an integrated bus and rail interchange part of the Porth Regeneration Strategy located at the existing railway station. The hub is modern and attractive at the heart of the Town Centre, providing seamless travel across bus and rail. The development saw demolition of three buildings to include electric vehicle charging points, a taxi rank, cycle stores and several upgrades across the local Active Travel network.Cellecta’s HEXATHERM XFLOOR 300 was specified by Redstart due to its high resistance to compression and closed cell structure that provides unrivalled resistance to water absorption, making them ideal for a multitude of domestic, commercial, and educational applications.Encon Construction in partnership with Rhondda Cynon Taf Council was awarded this 530m² contract for this development in Porth.

Specialist roofing and cladding contractor Metclad Ltd were employed by main contractor Bowmer & Kirkland to provide the roofing and cladding works.Metclad collaborated with Fixfast's technical team to ensure that the best fastener systems were used for the correct applications - for the flat roofing, efficient thermally broken systems were used so that the construction met all the regulatory standards.When it came to the façade work, the main fasteners supplied were designed to be aesthetically pleasing: the Fixfast DrillFast lacquered range, used for all the coloured façades where the fasteners were in any way visible.Where there was a need to have panels fixed back without showing any fixings at all, then the specialist SikaTack adhesive system was used.

FOAMGLAS® S3 (Slab)Design Architects: Chamberlin, Powell and Bon, LondonConstruction: 1982Application: Compact Roof - FOAMGLAS® S3 (Slab ) Finish: PaversBarbican Centre in the City of London is a residential, commercial and performing arts centre, it has an array of buildings which has pushed the forefront of architecture.The centre is the largest of its type in Europe and despite its construction many years ago, the centre continues to attract many visitors from around the world not only for its arts and performances but its 1970's Brutalist Architecture.The client, City of London Corporation, is the third largest arts funder in the United Kingdom.In 2001 the Barbican Complex became a Grade II listed building.

The owners of this domestic property in Penn, High Wycombe were looking to decorate their basement garage. They wanted the internal painted in-situ concrete to look like unpainted concrete.Dave Smith, Senior Sales Executive, and Nicola Young, Senior Colourist of KEIM Mineral Paints visited the property in August 2019 to trial samples for the client. It was noted during the visit that the walls were damp and required to be dried out prior to the applying of KEIM Mineral Paints. Pumps and dehumidifiers were installed to help this process.Once the moisture levels in the walls were below 18% by volume, the application of KEIM Design Lasur commenced.A translucent stain was applied to the walls, followed by KEIM Design Lasur sea sponged onto the surface to mimic a concrete appearance.

Power-assisted pocket doors with effortless activation and a smooth, silent operation.A contactless electro magnetic propulsion system silently opens and closes the door with no or minimal user handling.Motus can be controlled several ways depending on your application:Nudge and goThe standard method; simply nudge the door open or closed and Motus will assist with the rest.Touch-less sensorThe sensor is fitted to the wall and by simply moving your hand in front of the sensor this activates the door.Simultaneous openingNow available as standard when using double doors, Simultaneous opening activates both leafs in a seamless fashion.Fire rated to FD30All trim designs (Visible / Concealed / Shadow Gap) and on all configurations over a wide range of sizes.

2mm Reynolux Pre-coat Ral: 6021 material has been used for Roden Court, London.The client selected the precoated finish to replicate a Patina Copper effect in a solid flat colour. The Reynolux material was perfect for the application and system.Roden Court, which was a series of 1960s buildings, has been designed to preserve the mature landscape whilst combining new homes for existing tenants with apartments for sale and an extra-care home. The scheme provides a total of 136 new homes and includes 44 flats sold on the open market.It has been a pleasure working with the team at Stanmore. The entire job was scheduled prior to the material landing at Sotech’s manufacturing plant in Peterlee, making the onward planning of deliveries much more efficient.

Fireshield® vapour permeable membrane, which is designed specifically to improve the fire protection behind cladding has been chosen for a new Science Centre at Bevington Primary school in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, London.The project includes a brand new Science Studio, plus before and after school club buildings.SIP Build UK was appointed as frame subcontractor for the project and chose the Fireshield membrane as part of the SIPS panelling system. Chris Duckworth from SIP Build UK explains: “We chose Fireshield as it provided the project with a number of really important benefits. Fireshield is a high-performance breather membrane which enables us to achieve the requirements in terms of fire protection without compromising on vapour control.Fireshield was also ideal because it is easy to use and allowed us to achieve the requirements in one process, using just the membrane, rather than the typical approach of two, cement board and a membrane.”Fireshield is the culmination of leading research to produce a vapour permeable membrane with a intumescent coated surface, which has a unique composition that actively reacts to help protect the materials underneath. The intumescent coating helps protect the substrate by reducing the risk of fire taking hold and significantly reduces the formation of droplets and smoke.The BBA Certificate awarded to Fireshield confirms that it has enhanced performance in relation to reaction to fire classification, will reduce the risk of interstitial condensation, and will have a life equal to that of the building in which it is installed.Fireshield complies with BS5250, BS4016 and NHBC requirements for vapour permeable walling underlays. It is installed and fixed to the substrate in the same manner as standard breather membranes using mechanical fixings. Applications include both commercial and residential buildings including apartments and student accommodation, as well as Rainscreen cladding and applications over 18m high (11m in Scotland).

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 Blackheath Hospital, a private hospital made up of Victorian houses that from the classical façade of the building required a new waterproofing membrane to the plant room roof, after reports of water ingress to the building below. The leaks were caused by the existing box gutter around the slate pitched roof which was found to be an aged timber deck with a broken down felt membrane. The client requested a high performance, cold applied system, therefore Proteus Pro-Cold® was specified.High Performance WaterproofingDue to the nature of the building, a noise free, low odour, cost effective solution was required. A recovery board, bonded in Pro-Bond Foaming Adhesive was first installed, followed by the application of Proteus Pro-Cold® in a two coat fully reinforced process providing a guaranteed 15- year system. Proteus Waterproofing worked closely with the Proteus Approved Contractor to ensure the project was completed to a high standard. Health & SafetyAs the hospital building was constantly operating, the system needed to be installed with minimum noise and disruptions, ensuring the hospital could still operate and patients were not disturbed. As Proteus Pro-Cold® is cold applied it met all the health and safety criteria, as well as keeping disruptions to a minimum. Proteus Pro-Cold® is also certified with the highest European Fire Rating BROOF(t4). Long Term PerformanceProteus Pro-Cold® offers a low maintenance, durable waterproofing and protection solution for a range of new build and refurbishment applications. It is cold applied, eliminating the risk of fire and once cured, provides a completely seamless waterproof protection and has excellent UV stability, making it suitable to use in all climates. Proteus Pro-Cold® forms a seamless, fully adhered membrane and has BROOF(t4) certification.

Lomax + Wood have supplied high performance made-to-order timber box sash windows and doors for this stunning country home in the county of Berks. Based on the classic Georgian window proportions this new build property shows a full range of Lomax + Wood products, all suited to provide elegant and pleasing sightlines and proportions.In total 39 high performance made-to-order timber sash windows and doors.26 Traditional timber box sash windows with slim 18mm double glazed units.Made-to-order entrance door, with insulated panels incorporating steel inserts for security.3 French door sets hung only for surface fitted espagnolette locking.6 Dormer casement windows with horizontal glazing bars.Supplied using engineered timber with under the Lomax + Wood FSC® Chain of CustodySet within a country landscape this substantial country house has incorporated a number of period features to create a traditional country style. Lomax + Wood worked closely with the clients to ensure their vision was upheld and that the high performance timber windows and doors produced the correct proportions throughout the property.From matching the paint colour to sourcing the desired ironmongery and finishes Lomax + Wood’s made-to-order service ensured the clients requirements were listened to and acted upon.A primary concern of the architect and client was to ensure the timer was truly from a sustainable source. Lomax + Wood are committed to sourcing from sustainable sources, to this end we have worked hard to achieve FSC® Chain of Custody which is deemed by many to be an environmental gold standard. This work was undertaken in partnership with BM TRADA who are also deemed to be a mark of quality in our industry. Too many companies in the industry are passing off their product as from a sustainable source without ensuring it is through industry certification.Lomax + Wood products have also been independently tested to ensure the building regulations are met including Part Q, this involved a full range of intruder testing by Exova BM Trada.All Lomax + Wood products are made-to-order and whether you require a traditional style or more contemporary the product options are available to meet your requirements.

Shortly before the new school year started, the municipality of Ogre in Latvia opened a brand new sports complex at Ogre’s gymnasium. In the contest “Sustainability in Architecture Construction Design in the Baltics 2023”, organised by the Building Design and Construction Council, the sports complex was awarded 1st place in the category “Most Sustainable Project”. It was constructed by MONUM construction company.The multifunctional and energy-efficient sports hall has stationary and mobile tribunes, therefore providing space for up to 1700 spectators. The sports complex meets the requirements of the International Athletic Federation with four circular (200 meters) and six sprint tracks, a sector for the long jump, high jump, pole vault, and shot put. Also, in the centre of the hall, there are team sports courts suitable for basketball, floorball, tennis, volleyball and other games. On the second floor, the project's developers have built halls for a gym, gym classes and choreography. The building is complex and multifunctional, and four different Riga Wood birch plywood products have been applied here. Perforated Riga Decor and Riga Lacquer panels ensure excellent acoustics during sports activities, while Riga Paint gives an elegant touch to the lobby. Riga Ply has been used for various construction elements.“Riga Wood birch plywood products were chosen due to two main factors: it is a sustainable, renewable material with excellent technical properties and durable, with high wear resistance. Furthermore, in sports halls it is important to ensure good acoustics and perforated acoustic panels made of Riga Wood birch plywood panels serve their duty perfectly,” comments Maksims Žaguļins, project manager at MONUM.Riga Wood birch plywood has a long lifespan, and what is no less important, the maintenance is easy too. “In recent years, birch plywood has been used in many sports halls, especially for acoustic panels. The technologies that we use allow us to adjust the panels to the specific needs of each project with great results”, comments Intars Metums, head of the Wholesale Department of Riga Wood Baltics. “Furthermore, the versatility in our Riga Wood birch plywood products allows us to find the best solution, whether it’s for wall lining, floors or tribunes,” adds Intars.

The SIPs Cladding Panel has been included as part of the innovative design for the Research Acceleration and Demonstration (RAD) Building at The University of Nottingham.The ProjectThe RAD Building has been designed to achieve BREEAM Excellent and will include Passivhaus measures to reduce energy requirements, providing a comfortable space for users whilst maintaining outstanding energy efficiency.The £7m development, funded by Innovate UK, houses many of the UK’s leading academics in its laboratories, offices and breakout spaces. The 142 mm SIPs Cladding Panel was used in the walls of the iconic 2000 m2 building, in order ton restrict energy demand.The original specification indicated both SIP and, space saving opportunities and quality delivery by qualified installers.Rising to the challengeA multi-disciplinary approach was taken to meet the project’s challenging performance targets including input from building fabric engineers, specialist designers and BREEAM consultants. The use of the SIPs Cladding Panel was essential to maximise space in the laboratory building, whilst maintaining excellent levels of insulation.High performanceIn addition to their excellent thermal performance, the combination of the panel’s OSB/3 facing and unique jointing system also help to limit air loss from the building. This allowed the project team to limit air-leakage to below 0.6 ach@50 Pa.The RAD Building development offered the opportunity for creating a building with a dynamic appearance and unique identity, consistent with the aspirations of the ERA initiative.The use of the SIP Cladding Panel was essential for maximising space in the laboratory building, whilst maintaining excellent levels of insulation.The RAD Building development offered the opportunity for creating a building with a dynamic appearance and unique identity, consistent with the aspirations of the ERA initiative. The use of the SIP Cladding Panel aligns perfectly with these aspirations, due to the panels’ FSC® (FSC®-C109304) certification, which demonstrates sustainable sourcing of construction materials.University of Nottingham RAD Building | Lewis and Hickey Architecture4Awards2019 – Winner | Sustainability Award 2019, East Midlands Celebrating Construction Awards – Celebrating Construction Excellence2019 – Winner | LABC East Midlands Awards Winner & Highly Commended2018 – Winner | EMPD – Sustainable Project of the Year, constructing excellence

Arstiderne architects, a division of architectural and engineering consultancy Sweco, has transformed a large industrial building into a stunning open plan office to house the 180 Sweco employees at a location near Aarhus in Denmark.  The clever design retains much of the heritage of the old building, including its curved sawtooth roof and skylights, while insulating it to high standards and transforming the interior to meet the key objective of fulfilling UN Sustainable Development goals. The architects are particularly proud of the way the old building has responded to conversion into an employee and client-friendly showplace with a unique energising ambiance. While the majority of staff work in large open plan spaces they benefit from several smaller self-contained rooms in the centre of the building. These box-like structures, bathed in daylight from the skylights and facade windows, are used for a variety of purposes from a quiet workspace to meetings and socialising. Their design on the original concrete floor contrasts well with the precise finish on their walls. These are clad with Troldtekt acoustic panels in an ultrafine finish creating a high performance and aesthetically pleasing appearance. The ceilings and some walls are clad with standard acoustic panels, while specific areas have been decorated with Troldtekt® line which forms part of the award-winning design solutions collection. The lengthwise surface grooves form a continuous pattern across the partitions and reception areas adding interesting texture and depth. Troldtekt was specified across the scheme for its sustainable characteristics coupled with superior acoustics to provide a comfortable working environment. Thus the overall redesign of the interior strikes an impressive balance been the original industrial construction on one hand and human scale on the other, with the textured surfaces creating a sense of companionship.  Founded on the Cradle-to-Cradle design concept, Troldtekt’s natural and inherently sustainable panels are available in a variety of different surfaces and colours and contribute positively to a building’s BREEAM, DGNB and LEED ratings. In addition to their high sound absorption and tactile surface, they offer high durability and low cost lifecycle performance. 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 guidance are available from tel 01978 664255 or Troldtekt.co.uk

The British museum has seen a number of additions over the years,most recently the £135 million world conservation and exhibitionscentre which was completed in 2014. The brief required a particularfocus on creating an environmentally sustainable building with amodern interior that could hold exhibitions, as the museum did nothave enough space for them.The British Museum was conceived in 1753 after Sir Hans Sloaneexchanged his vast collection of artefacts with King George III for£20,000 to ensure that he left an inheritance for his children. Itopened it’s doors to the public in 1759 and has remained in thesame location in Bloomsbury ever since.The main building exhibits landmark architecture inspired by theGreek Revival. To fit the 19th and 20th century design of the site,the architects Rogers Stirk Harbour worked with Mace group tobuild the new conservation centre using steel frames and Portlandglass and stone, easing the transition between the exterior of themuseum and the new development.With a public building of this magnitude, there is a high amount oftraffic around the building so it was imperative that the ironmongeryperformed to the highest level. For this reason, Allgood suppliedthe highest quality hardware including: triple knuckle hinges, floorspring units and mortice locks. We specified the hinges as they aremade from 316 stainless steel and come with a 25 year guaranteewhilst the other hardware items have a ten year guarantee. We alsosupplied our Modric lever handles on mostof the doors as they aretested to grade 4 against BS EN 1906 and would provide the doorswith the highest quality and most durable handles.As science and research are at the core of the new development,the building needed to be modern, functional and sustainable.We were able to meet the sustainability expectations as all of ourstainless steel door fittings are made from 62% recycled materialsof which 95% can be recycled at the end of the product’s life.Additionally, our packaging is also made from recycled material andcan be recycled once it has been used.The World Conservation and Exhibitions centre has now been openfor 6 months and has further enhanced the British Museum’s statusas a world class institute.

The British museum has seen a number of additions over the years,most recently the £135 million world conservation and exhibitionscentre which was completed in 2014. The brief required a particularfocus on creating an environmentally sustainable building with amodern interior that could hold exhibitions, as the museum did nothave enough space for them.The British Museum was conceived in 1753 after Sir Hans Sloaneexchanged his vast collection of artefacts with King George III for£20,000 to ensure that he left an inheritance for his children. Itopened it’s doors to the public in 1759 and has remained in thesame location in Bloomsbury ever since.The main building exhibits landmark architecture inspired by theGreek Revival. To fit the 19th and 20th century design of the site,the architects Rogers Stirk Harbour worked with Mace group tobuild the new conservation centre using steel frames and Portlandglass and stone, easing the transition between the exterior of themuseum and the new development.With a public building of this magnitude, there is a high amount oftraffic around the building so it was imperative that the ironmongeryperformed to the highest level. For this reason, Allgood suppliedthe highest quality hardware including: triple knuckle hinges, floorspring units and mortice locks. We specified the hinges as they aremade from 316 stainless steel and come with a 25 year guaranteewhilst the other hardware items have a ten year guarantee. We alsosupplied our Modric lever handles on mostof the doors as they aretested to grade 4 against BS EN 1906 and would provide the doorswith the highest quality and most durable handles.As science and research are at the core of the new development,the building needed to be modern, functional and sustainable.We were able to meet the sustainability expectations as all of ourstainless steel door fittings are made from 62% recycled materialsof which 95% can be recycled at the end of the product’s life.Additionally, our packaging is also made from recycled material andcan be recycled once it has been used.The World Conservation and Exhibitions centre has now been openfor 6 months and has further enhanced the British Museum’s statusas a world class institute.

As concerns about environmental sustainability continue to escalate, the concept of Passive House (Passivhaus) design has emerged as a game-changer in creating energy-efficient buildings.This innovative approach focuses on maximizing a structure’s energy efficiency while maintaining optimal comfort for its occupants. One key element that can complement and enhance Passive House principles is the incorporation of automatic doors.Understanding Passive House DesignPassive House design revolves around stringent energy efficiency standards. It employs various techniques to minimize energy consumption, such as superior insulation, airtight construction, high-performance windows, and heat recovery ventilation. These elements work harmoniously to create a building that requires minimal energy for heating or cooling, leading to significant reductions in carbon emissions and energy costs.The Role of Automatic Doors in Passive HouseAutomatic doors might not seem like an obvious addition to Passive House design, but their integration can significantly contribute to its efficiency goals. Here’s how:Controlled Air Exchange:Passive House principles emphasise airtightness to prevent energy loss. Automatic doors, equipped with sensors and precise control mechanisms, can efficiently regulate the airflow, allowing for controlled ventilation while minimising the loss of heated or cooled air. This feature ensures that the building maintains its airtightness while providing necessary air circulation.Energy Conservation:By automating the opening and closing of doors, energy loss due to unnecessary drafts or human error is minimised. The doors swiftly close after use, reducing the transfer of heat or cold air between different zones within the building. This helps in maintaining the indoor temperature, contributing to the overall energy efficiency of the structure.Accessibility and Comfort:In addition to energy efficiency, automatic doors significantly enhance accessibility, ensuring ease of entry and exit for all individuals. The seamless operation of these doors adds convenience and comfort to occupants while aligning with the core principles of Passive House design.From revolving doors to sliding doors, we have just he solution for your energy saving needs. We help our clients save energy because we know how important it is to cultivate a sustainable future and reduce environmental impact, while simultaneously promoting cost-effective and efficient solutions for their individual needs. Find our new energy saving FAAC sliding doors here solutions here, and energy saving data here.ConclusionPassive House design has revolutionised the way we approach building construction, emphasising sustainability and energy efficiency. The incorporation of automatic doors complements these principles by enhancing airtightness, energy conservation, and overall occupant comfort.In the pursuit of creating eco-friendly and energy-efficient buildings, integrating automated systems like doors not only aligns with Passive House standards but also sets a new benchmark for sustainable architecture. These technological advancements not only serve functional purposes but also play a pivotal role in reducing environmental impact while prioritising the well-being of the building’s occupants.Check out more of our Energy Solutions.For more information or assistance with any project, please contact enquiries.esuk@faactechnologies.com where we can provide expert guidance and detailed documentation.

The Dogs Trust holds a special place in the heart of the canine loving public. The national charity’s Cardiff Rehoming Centre sets an incredible benchmark of facilities to ensure rescue dogs get the best chance of a happy and healthy future. Run by devoted staff, the centre includes 20 exercise paddocks, a training hall, 74 kennels with underfloor heating and a fully equipped grooming suite. A pawsome attention to every need The project is located on an eight-acre brownfield site and comprises a campus of strategically located pavilion buildings. The buildings to the north are open to the public, offering training, rehoming services with conference facilities. These buildings are focused around a feature 'Piazza' providing a pedestrian link between the buildings and a place for people to meet. The 'working' buildings are reserved for training and rehabilitation. The heart of the development is the main reception structure, which contains kennels, education areas, a veterinary wing and conference/meeting room facilities, along with specialist and ancillary spaces. Contemporary and exciting…but not lavish The Dog Trust’s primary yellow corporate identity is picked out strongly on feature walls and other elements, whilst most exterior elevations and interiors adhere to whites and greys and a limited number of materials. Oliver Henshall of Cardiff-based project architects, Powell Dobson, spoke about the project, “Because the Dog’s Trust is a charity we were mindful that, while creating contemporary and exciting architecture and interiors, neither should appear as if money had been lavished on them. After all, the dogs should always be the priority in terms of funding allocation. With that in mind, we liked the idea of leaving the services exposed, dressing internals with just the essentials. Rockfon Eclipse® Islands were the ideal choice in terms of helping create a sharp, modern aesthetic while offering superior sound control.”Dogs Trust Cardiff Deputy Manager, Kim Davies, “The building looks wonderful, with the ceilings suspended between the lighting really setting off the space and looking fabulous.”An acousticians’ best friendAt the Dogs Trust, elegant 40mm thick, 2360x1160mm, frameless acoustic islands are suspended by wires, but Eclipse can also be installed using a suspended grid or fixed directly to the soffit. Their smooth, deep matt, super white surface has anti-static properties, which extend product life. They are perfect for thermal mass applications and absorb sound on both sides, reducing reverberation time while improving ambient sound levels. Eclipse can be supplied in various shapes and colours to enhance design freedom and is also available as a wall panel, where extra sound absorption combined with design options is required. Rockfon Specification Manger Rowan Green, “All Rockfon acoustic systems are made from naturally occurring inert volcanic rock (stone wool), are non-combustible and will not harbour harmful microorganisms and bacteria. They have a high recycled content, are fully recyclable and are certified to leave a positive impact on people and the planet 

TRC Windows have recently undertaken a project at Cadogan Terrace in East London (E9) to install 160 new casement windows across several buildings in this iconic, well-loved location.The projectNestled near Hackney Wick overground station and the Regent’s Canal, Cadogan Terrace is an attractive Victorian terrace with stunning views of the beautiful green spaces and delightful boating lakes of Victoria Park.The houses on Cadogan Terrace are full of quintessential British charm and we were proud to be asked to work on this refurbishment project to lovingly give these buildings a new lease of life.To deliver the project, which will span the course of eighteen weeks, TRC are partnering with AD Construction Group Limited, one of the UK’s leading privately owned public sector specialist providers of refurbishment services.

Orbis OS211 Glass Infill Top FixOrbis OS221 Midrail Infill Top FixOrbis OS201 Vertical Bar Infill Top FixOrbis OS251 No Infill Top FixThe £4million campus modifications at Accrington & Rossendale College create a transformational green space to enhance the campus environment. Wildflower meadows are the backdrop to improved access, ensuring ease of movement around campus.A modern and refined aesthetic has been created at the new main entrance with the installation of Orbis balustrades with toughened laminated glass infill. Whilst powder coated Orbis with vertical bars guides the way from the street level access elevator to the main entrance.Incorporating Orbis with midrail infill to provide extra support for the high traffic main entrance steps, ensuring safety is paramount on campus.

Located just to the east of Worksop Town Centre, The Canch is an award-winning park that is owned and managed by Bassetlaw District Council.As part of Bassetlaw District Council’s commitment to continually improve the overall facilities at its Green Flag award-winning park, plans for a new building were put in place in 2021 to include a refreshments kiosk, a Changing Places toilet, a disabled toilet, a baby change and parent WC in addition to four unisex toilets.To improve their visitor experience and make their park accessible for all, Bassetlaw District Council got in touch with Innova Care Concepts to supply and install a new Changing Places facility.Take a look to fine out how Innova helped ensure The Canch had accessible toilet facilities for all visitors to their park .....

King’s Road Park forms part of a 17-acre regeneration scheme set to provide over 1800 new homes to West London. Plot 1A of the Berkeley Group development includes both residential and commercial facilities along with private communal amenity space, a health club and basement car parking. The large flat roof features both extensive green roofing and a roof terrace for a penthouse apartment. oversaw the installation of the roof insulation and waterproofing system. An inverted roof construction was selected for the terraces and, in order to meet the target U-value of 0.15 W/m2K whilst also maintaining an even transition from internal floor levels, the OPTIM-R E Inverted Roofing System was installed above the Alumasc Derbigum system.

A stunning refit of a listed building overlooking Green ParkDevonshire House is a Grade 2 listed gem residing in Mayfair, and we worked with Bain Capital and TP Bennett Architects and their respective contractors on the refurbishment of the fourth-floor offices and their four expansive external terraces. The challenge was to find a decking solution that was fully compliant with the latest Building Safety Regulations while maintaining the aesthetic of this historic London property.MyDek’s Luxura – an A1 fire-rated composite – was chosen for the project as it seamlessly aligned with the building’s aesthetics while delivering a robust, enduring surface for the upgraded outdoor spaces. The roof terraces had a limited loadbearing capacity that could not accommodate concrete paving and Luxura emerged as the ideal solution, allowing for top quality decking that remained well within structural limits.