"walls"

Forming part of one of the largest and most ambitious regeneration projects in Europe, Mustard Wharf is a new residential Build to Rent development overlooking the Leeds-Liverpool Canal.The £55 Million scheme features 3 buildings housing 247 stunning 1, 2 and 3-bedroom boutique rental apartments plus communal roof terraces, gym, working spaces, and clubhouses.An impressive central atrium was created using Senior’s thermally enhanced SF52 curtain walling with secure access via SPW501 doors. The apartments feature floor to ceiling energy efficient PURe® windows whilst PURe® SLIDE doors lead to the balcony providing a light and comfortable environment. 

When refurbishing a building in the heart of London, innovative building solutions and construction processes are necessary. That’s why Schüco FWS 50 curtain walling and AWS 70.HI side-hung windows were specified for the renovation of University College London Hospital’s (UCLH) Ear, Nose & Throat Department.Being located in such a central and busy area, it was decided that a prefabricated façade system would be the ideal solution. The key challenge was for this system to be installed as a complete unitised panel on site while still using a standard stick system.The building façade comprises 28 prefabricated bays, each 4 m wide, constructed as hybrids of traditional hand-made bricks, precast concrete, aluminium and glass.

THE PROJECTThe Queensland Curve project features a high-quality collection of mailboxes fitted into a curved surround that gives a unique layout to this bank of Steel 2 mailboxes.The Steel 2 mailbox used in this project is an in front / out front box that securely stores mail until a user accesses the individual mailbox with a coded key. Each mailbox is engraved with an identification number that allows the mailbox users to quickly and easily find their individual mailbox.The surround frame that the mailboxes are fitted into was designed on-site and the bank of mailboxes were designed around the space available.PROJECT DETAILSProject Type: Private AccommodationProduct: Steel 2 MailboxInstallation: Wall MountedQuantity: 75Accessories: Wooden Surround, Engraving

Project:Downtown Doha is a multimillion-pound scheme to regenerate the Downtown Doha district. Surespan supplied a wide number of electrically operated glazed roof hatches along with solid top roof access hatches. Product:Sizes included a 3310 x 1120, 4320 x 1110, 3245 x 760, 1098 x 4330mm and the biggest size came in at 4462 x 6654mm. All the hatches were provided powder coated using the Interpon D series for enhanced durability. In addition, a variety of other products including wall & ceiling access panels were manufactured from Stainless steel. The largest panel was 2700 x 1600mm manufactured as a double door.

The National Trust was looking for ways to improve its facilities and services, especially the public toilet block at Lacock. The block was was in poor condition, with no hot water or heating, poor lighting, and frequent blockages. The toilets had received numerous complaints, and so the National Trust wanted to upgrade the facilities.“Previously we had tiled walls which were very cold and not easy to clean as well as suffering from condensation. We had a lot of technical issues as well as issues with the drains. The smell was always bad. We were spending a lot of hours on fixing and maintaining the urinals so these were the issues we wanted to address, alongside improving energy efficiency and lowering the environmental impact of the washrooms.”Andy Webster, Facilities Manager, North Wiltshire National TrustAt a London trade show, Anna Bradshaw met Paul from Ecoprod and Mihail from CONTI, who demonstrated smart taps and accessories that could analyze visitor data. Initially the Trust was interested just in the smart taps however after Ecoprod visited the site it became apparent that they could offer much more than just the taps. The project expanded to include a full refit of the public toilet block, with a focus on efficiency, energy-saving and low maintenance costs.The Trust wanted a solution that was energy-efficient, recyclable, and reusable, and Ecoprod offered a full package that fit these criteria. The upgrade included easy-clean, wipe-down wall coverings, a modular system that allowed for easy repairs, and water-saving taps and urinals. The Trust was able to secure funding for the upgrade because of the quality of the product and its energy and water-saving features. Efficiency of energy usage and low maintenance costs are extremely important to the National Trust so the refit was designed with these priorities in mind.“The biggest draw for me initially was the fact that the taps offered the potential to collect and analyse usage data so we could see how many users we were getting. This is important because the toilet block is in a car park outside of our pay barrier, and therefore difficult to gauge numbers. However, once we started thinking about new taps then we started thinking about improving the basins and it went from there – ultimately we decided to go for the whole refit and have a really smart new look to the loos. Because the other products were also recyclable and reusable and made the whole management of the space more efficient, we were able to secure the budget to do a full refit. The quality of the products was apparent really early on.”Anna Bradshaw, Facilities and Business Support Services“We have gone for an easy clean, wipe down modular system so that if things get damaged, as they do in a public toilet, we’re only replacing small parts rather than the whole system.”Andy WebsterWhat was included in the refit?Ecoprod supplied the National Trust with a complete building project package which included:-Strip out of old toilet blockReconfiguration of walls to create spaceNew flooring and wallingNew lighting, extraction, and heatingNew back panel systemsNew cubiclesNew URIMAT waterless urinalsNew troughs with CONTI+ Lumino tap with localised heater and Ble tool for connectivityToilets with cisterns from Siamp rangeMitsubishi hand dryersBaby changing stationFull project management Working with Ecoprod“We had a pretty clear plan on what we wanted to do and how we wanted to do it and Marcus was very accommodating. Once we got the contract signed it all came together very quickly. As always with jobs like this a few unexpected things came up but Marcus was able to deal with all of them. Whenever an issue arose I made a phone call and Marcus was on it straight away. He was very good at keeping people in the loop and communication was good throughout.”Andy WebsterThe benefits since the new toilet block opened“Previously our main source of complaints for the site were the toilets. They were cold, damp and difficult to keep well presented. For many people their first stop will be a loo visit and we were very aware it wasn’t a good first impression. Since the refit we have received no complaints and visitors are now complimenting them on how clean and bright they are. The new design means they are easier to clean, as we moved from tiles to wall cladding, and troughs rather than individual basins, plus the new non-slip floor surface makes access much safer for our visitors.”Anna Bradshaw“We are looking to grow our relationship with Ecoprod, looking at other sites where we can use this technology. The more positive results we get, the more interest we have from the rest of the National Trust. One of the Trust’s main aims is energy efficiency and climate action is a big thing for the Trust this year so anything that can help us with that is something we will be looking at with great interest.”Andy Webster

Internally and externally waterproofing the below-ground developments of the extended Christian Dior store on New Bond Street, with Newton 403 HydroBond, Newton 107F and Newton System 500.New Bond Street has been one of the most prestigious retail streets in London since it’s 18th Century beginnings, and in 2011 was named as the second most expensive retail street in Europe after the Champs-Élysées in Paris. The Christian Dior name has also been synonymous with haute couture and luxury retail since its own inception in 1947.This project required both the internal and external waterproofing of the extended basement area of Christian Dior’s flagship London store. A significant extension of the existing floor space on this stretch of famous London road, the extensive basement area will be used as stock rooms, changing rooms, and staff and shop floor areas. It was therefore a crucial requirement to achieve a completely dry internal space.The property line construction between two existing buildings meant that there was a requirement for waterproofing both new and existing structural elements, including pile caps, underpinning, a new reinforced concrete slab, existing foundations, and also existing vaulted areas at the front of the building which extend below New Bond Street.Because a completely dry internal environment was required, (defined as Grade 3 by the BS 8102:2009 Code of Practice for The Protection of Below Ground Structures From Water From The Ground) the proposal put forward by design specialists G05, in consultation with Newton, was a combination of Type A and Type C waterproofing systems. Due to the fact that the build was between the flank walls of two existing structures, the Type A system comprised of a combination of the hydrophilic, fully-bonded Newton 403 Hydrobond membrane pre-applied below the new concrete slab, and was linked to the cementitious, flexible Newton 107F membrane, which was applied to the internal faces of the walls and the prepared internal areas of the vaults.Following the application of the Type A system, a Newton System 500 Cavity Drain membrane system (Type C) was applied to the internal wall and floor areas by Newton Specialist Basement Contractor Advanced Preservations Ltd, who also guaranteed the work. The system included perimeter drainage using Newton Basedrain, and two Newton Titan-Pro pumping systems. The under-pavement vaults were lined internally with the Newton 500 system.Not only was continuity achieved with the waterproofing systems across numerous below-ground building mediums and scenarios, but the waterproofing system also conformed to the recommendations of BS 8102:2009 for combined waterproofing protection, where even the slightest form of water ingress is unacceptable.The internal areas were also successful in achieving an environmental Grade 3 with regard to their degree of water tightness, meaning that they will be suitably fit for purpose and use by both Christian Dior’s staff and customers.

The ProjectProject Triathlon was conceived as a new build warehouse development at DP World London Gateway. It was designed specifically for use by DHL Supply Chain, the world’s leading contract logistics provider. This brand-new structure would have an internal volume equivalent to 645 Olympic-size swimming pools.Shire Flooring Ltd was employed as the flooring contractor for this huge project. As the new warehouse involved areas which would be used for differing purposes, a range of floorings would be necessary throughout the facility. This meant that a range of flooring accessories would also be needed, to complement the different floorcoverings.The ApproachShire Flooring spoke to Quantum Flooring about supplying the accessories for the project. They would need cove formers and capping strips, to be fitted with resilient floorcoverings. Two types of stair nosings would also be necessary; one to be fitted onto wooden steps, and one to be used on carpeted staircases.Quantum’s QCF35 cove former would be used to curve the vinyl at the floor-to-wall junctions, protecting the floorcovering from damage at the join and making it easier to clean. UCS1 flexible capping strips were selected in both black and white for a mix of colour designs in different parts of the building. These would create a neat finish to the floorcovering up the wall.On the carpeted staircases, Quantum’s ZHF1 stair nosings were chosen. These heavy-duty profiles were fitted with mist coloured tread material, to contrast with the black carpet. For the wooden flooring, ZF125R stair nosings were used. These profiles have a ramped back, so they can be fitted straight onto wood or concrete steps without creating a slip hazard. Black inserts were used to contrast with the natural wood colouring.The stair nosings were fitted using Q-Fix, Quantum’s contact adhesive. Q-Fix is a single solution to fix Quantum stair nosings, with no need for screws or plugs. With a strong and durable bond, there is no more reliable stair nosing adhesive on the market.The OutcomeShire Flooring completed their work on Project Triathlon in 2022. By the end of the project, they had fitted an immense 3000sqm of flooring. They had also fitted 400m of Quantum stair nosings, and 200m of Quantum capping strips and cove formers.Quantum’s UCS1 capping strips in both white and black look great in the warehouse, with the QCF35 cove former assisting in protecting the integrity of the floorcovering where it meets the wall.Meanwhile, the ZHF1 and ZF125R stair nosings look fantastic on their respective staircases. With Quantum’s slip resistant tread material, they are helping to prevent slips, trips, and falls for the many workers at the facility.Shire Flooring did excellent work with Quantum Flooring products in this extensive project. DHL Supply Chain can be happy with a great design scheme, along with products that will keep its workers safe going into the future. 

Located in Antrim with full site completion expected in 2028/29. Belmont Hall is a well-established development in the area. With easy access to the M2 and situated within close proximity to local schools, leisure facilities and shopping, Belmont is an ideal place to live. This environmentally sensitive development also offers immediate access to a range of parks, walkways and playing fields.The Challenge To create a unique and environmentally conscious housing development that was sympathetic to its natural surroundings. Belmont Hall aimed to establish itself as a relaxed and environmentally conscious development, paying homage to its natural surroundings, particularly the picturesque Six Mile Water River.  The procurement of a diverse range of facing brick in strong vibrant colours was a top priority for Antrim Construction Company . The goal was to offer homes with a range of finishes, fostering a sense of individuality and departure from uniformity.  Another important consideration for this project was budget. When compared to clay brick, Tobermore Facing Brick was far more competitive. In addition to this, the availability of stock ensured prompt delivery to meet tight project timelines.  The SolutionA unique development was achieved by utilising Tobermore Country Stone walling alongside Tobermore Kingston and Lansdowne facing brick ranges. To guarantee that Belmont Hall respected the natural environment that surrounds it, collaborating with a company committed to minimising environmental impact was paramount. Tobermore has consistently upheld responsible manufacturing practices aimed at reducing the environmental footprint of its operations. Comprehensive and reliable environmental performance data is readily available for all Tobermore products. These Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) undergo independent verification to ensure the accuracy of each product’s environmental performance. Antrim Construction Company (ACC) created a distinctive development for the significant 400 house site by incorporating a variety of colours of Tobermore facing brick in both Lansdowne and Kingston ranges, along with Slate Country Stone walling. After considering clay and various concrete alternatives, ACC chose Tobermore due to the quality product and range of colours available. The use of vibrant shades Cottage Red, Golden, Charcoal and Slate amplified individuality in this project through the complementary contrast of colour. Additionally, the utilisation of various finishes of facing brick further enhanced the development’s character. Initially unaware of Tobermore Country Stone, the client expressed interest in incorporating a split stone product into their project. Following an on-site visit and discussions with the Antrim Construction Sales and Marketing department, Tobermore was able to provide a quote alongside a sample panel of products on site. As a result, the company decided to include Country Stone Walling alongside Tobermore Facing Bricks.  Tobermore was able to offer Antrim Construction Company a competitive price point, promise of availability and an unrivalled customer service throughout the project.  

Location: Lymington, HampshoreProject Type: HousingDevelopment Cost: £80mProduct: Shadex 150 Raking: First Fix Brackets (Thru Render)Shadex 190 Drop-in Cassettes (Structural Steel Supports)Aluminium Plain FasciaDelta 100 GutterDelta 150 Gutter100mm Round Contemporary Rainwater PipeMeridian Wall CopingFinish: Syntha Pulvin RAL 7000 Matt Squirrel Grey: Marine SpecificationFire rating: A2 s1, d0 Non-combustible (Reaction to Fire EN BS 13501-1:2018)Client: Redrow Homes LtdArchitect: AAP Architecture LtdMain Contractor: Redrow Homes LtdSub Contractor: Stafford Rainwater Systems Ltd

Kindred House is a 25-storey block made up of 128 one to three bedroom residential apartments overlooking the Croydon Flyover. Of these homes, 60 are affordable, and includes above flexible office and retail space, and 1000m² of flexible commercial space adjacent to the road. These all act as a buffer for the affordable apartments on the opposite side of the plan. The building has been stabilised with RC lift cores and RC shear walls and supported on reinforced concrete piled foundations.Cellecta’s YELOfon HD5 was specified by Pitman Tozer Architects on this project for its excellent high impact sound deadening properties ideal for a block of flats. It is a lightweight, easy to install non-crosslinked polyethylene foam.Henry Construction was awarded the 10,000m² contract to construct these modern apartments.

Lying in the very heart of London’s most creative neighbourhood, The Atlas Building is architecturally striking with a series of staggered fins and a mix of contrasting facades.MAKE were the concept architects behind this scheme, while Scott Brownrigg had overall responsibility for the design and delivery of the project.EH Smith were brought in to assist with the brick element to this building. We were able to offer our GeoBrick range as a cost-effective alternative to the linear bricks that Scott Brownrigg initially considered.GeoBrick, exclusive to EH Smith, uses paving technology to repel dirt so the facade will remain crisp and clean.The stark, white, clean linear bricks juxtaposed with the living wall adjacent to them complimented the contemporary urban surroundings beautifully.

Unity Place was designed as the anchor project in the Swindon Kimmerfields development. Aiming to achieve a rating of BREEAM “Excellent”, minimise waste during construction, and run efficiently throughout its lifespan, the building is a sustainable commitment to Swindon that provided the 950 staff of Zurich Insurance with 100,000ft2 of office space.Kawneer’s AA®190 TB Severe Duty Entrance Doors were selected for use on the ground floor to meet the needs of the heavy footfall of Unity Place – the solution is an all-purpose door for use in high-traffic areas and automatic entrances.Kawneer’s AA®110 Curtain Wall System on the façade, was chosen for its high thermal and weather performance, perfect for a project that required efficiency and sustainability at every phase.

Lazenby’s Henley Buff Polished Concrete floor was laid in a new side and rear extension to this stunning property in Cheshire.A key consideration by the clients was that the polished concrete floor be a very close match to the concrete walls which had been cast by the main contractor. Lazenby provided numerous samples for sign off before the client confirmed Henley Buff as the selected colour.The architects wanted to use industrial materials such as concrete and timber throughout the project but still wanted to achieve a warm and homely environment. This was successfully achieved by a clever use of lighting and subtle tones within the materials.To create an ultra modern, flexible space, the polished concrete floor also extends out to the patio area where it connects seamlessly with the internal flooring

Italia-Corten was recently specified as a wall cladding on a new house in Wells-next-the-Sea, one of the loveliest towns on the Norfolk Coast . The iconic eighteenth century maltings, granaries and a network of narrow streets, alleys and yards have ensured that Wells has preserved its historic character as a manufacturing town and the corten louvred panels sympathetically blend with the heritage of the surroundings. Ian Bramwell, director of award-winning Mole Architects, who was in charge of the project, described the result as ‘fantastic’.The panels were hooked to stainless steel brackets which were designed and fabricated by Lang+Fulton to provide a hidden fixing. Prior to installation, the panels were pickled off-site to speed up the initial rusting of the corten and to reduce any consequential staining.

Kroll (previously Duff & Phelps) operate within the risk and financial advisory sector, with UK offices based in Manchester’s Northern Quarter for which we had the pleasure of providing a Type G200 folding partition system during a recent refurbishment. The operable wall allows the space to be transformed from a large open plan area into two separate rooms as and when required.The Type G200 system offers impressive acoustic, achieving up to Rw 47dB when fully closed – minimising noise transfer between the two spaces, without compromising on light transfer. In this instance, a fully glazed, full height pass door allows for easy access between the two smaller rooms when the system is in use.

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.

Rawson Carpet Solutions have been chosen to supply the Modern Artesian Building Studio Apartment blocks in Liverpool. The building sits in a bustling creative area of Liverpool in the heart of the Baltic Triangle.500 sqm of Rawson’s Dash carpet tiles have been installed by the flooring contractor Bogans. Rawson Dash Tile is a commercial durable, carpet tile with a dash linear pattern. The Carpet tiles provide a subtle but pleasing aesthetic to the floor complementing the bright wall colouring and imagery.Rawson Carpet Solutions is a long established UK Manufacturer offering a vast range of carpet sheet and tile solutions to suit any commercial or public space project, whether the criteria is durable and competitive or high end designer.

The Wickes Farnbrough DIY store is one in the latest Wickes stores to have been developed by Travis Perkins as part of its ongoing plan to double its UK store network to 400 by 2020.The project used Trimapanel® micro-rib 90mm on the front elevations and Trisomet® 80mm for the rear wall elevations; Trisomet® 120mm was used for the roof; and parapet gutters lined with a Colorcoat Aquatite® PVC membrane. (HR50) site assembled built-up system, which is being used as a feature on a number of the Wickes Stores, ran across the top of the Trimapanel® on the front elevation acting as a separator between the two units. LP1000 liner panels were also used internally.

First opening in 1936, The Comet Hotel is named after the locally built de Havilland Comet DH.88 racing aeroplane. The recent refurbishment and extension is based on the rich heritage and period glamour of the original Comet Hotel.Sylan Products Supplied:High Pressure Laminate Toilet CubiclesFlush frontedStylish and elegantInvisible fixing systemFull height cubicleAvailable in over 30 laminate coloursNo hefty price tagHigh Pressure Laminate Duct Panelling SystemMatch to your cubiclesAvailable in over 30 coloursQuick and easy to installQuartz Countertop VanityTimeless designSuitable for deck or wall mounted tapsAvailable in 9 coloursCantilever bracketsQuick and easy to install

Constructed within the Mossley Hill Conservation Area, the parkland surrounding the University of Liverpool's Greenbank student residences was gifted to the university by the Rathbone family in 1939, and still offers a unique environment today. Crucially the designs for new buildings, including use of Technal's aluminium building systems respond sympathetically to the verdant setting. The Greenbank Residences replace outdated buildings and have been arranged around three landscaped courtyards, rising from five to eight storeys in height, creating over 1,370 new en-suite bedrooms. This project utilised 2,000 m2 of aluminium curtain walling, windows and doors - all of which offer high thermal performance and are finished in matt Anthracite Grey polyester powder coat.

The project team responsible for a striking residential property in the Channel Islands used our Dualframe 75Si Windows and the Elegance Curtain Walling, supplied by Pallot Glass & Windows, to match the property's modernist styling, as well as providing outstanding weather performance in a very exposed situation. Island-based Pallot Glass & Windows, was awarded the contract by the main contractor, Hacquoil & Cook Ltd, to supply and fit all of the glazing for the two-storey, five-bedroom Jersey home which has earned wide acclaim and been short-listed for several awards. The package included an entrance screen which combined the Elegance 52 elements with a large bespoke timber door and a fully glazed rear elevation with balconies overlooking the gardens.

Altro floors and walls bring the seaside in at Cornish holiday parkIssueBeachside Holiday Park is a busy, seasonal, family business that recently celebrated its 60th anniversary. In response to customer needs, the team at Beachside Holiday Park was investing in a large refurbishment, to totally transform the main building, providing a new, spacious, cohesive reception, restaurant, bar and soft play area with an overall beachside theme. The refurbishment needed to be completed in time for an expected busy holiday season.ApproachIn the large reception, restaurant and bar area, flooring choice was vitally important to achieving the overall vision, with the team wanting to create a space that shouted sunny seaside, even if it was raining outside. Beachside turned to Ian Williams of Ace Flooring & Carpets on the recommendation of their main contractor. “We worked closely with Ben and the team at Beachside to make sure we got the look and feel they were after,” explained Ian. The toilets and back of house areas also needed a refresh, providing customers and staff with hygienic and safe spaces.SolutionThe Beachside Holiday Park needed a floor for front of house that provided longevity, durability, looked good and was easy to maintain. The team at Beachside Holiday Park and Ace Flooring worked together on this incredibly impactful space and selected two wood-look options of Altro Ensemble modular flooring. In the kitchens, Ace Flooring recommended the tried and tested combination of Altro Crete resin floor and Altro Whiterock hygienic wall cladding to deliver a robust, resilient and hygienic Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) approved solution. In the toilets and throughout the back of house, the installation of sustainable Altro XpressLay adhesive-free safety floor reduced the downtime of these busy areas.The design was so good, Ace Floor and the Beachside team were nominated for, and won, an Altro Design Recognition Award.

In a historic moment blending heritage, accessibility, and community spirit, the much-anticipated Ignatius Sancho Café officially opened its doors in Greenwich Park on Saturday, 23rd March. The launch event, attended by esteemed guests and locals alike, marked a milestone in celebrating the legacy of Ignatius Sancho, a remarkable 18th-century figure whose impact resonates through the centuries.Changing Places, Changing LivesAstor Bannerman was pleased to be involved in the project to contribute to the cafes abilities to cater to diverse needs. The Changing Places facility includes:Astor’s Invincible Height Adjustable Changing TableABW-CP Height Adjustable Wall Mounted Wash BasinOT200 Overhead Ceiling Track HoistGeberit – AquaClean Mera Care Shower ToiletKwickScreen Wall Mounted Privacy ScreenThese facilities underscore The Royal Park’s commitment to inclusion and accessibility.Borras Construction, the construction company behind the project, received accolades for their dedication and craftsmanship. Architect Mark Martines from Architype envisioned a blend of historical charm and modern functionality, transforming the old ranger’s lodge into a vibrant community hub just a stone’s throw away from the picturesque deer park in Greenwich.The CaféThe Ignatius Sancho Café promises to breathe new life into the park, offering an array of lunch items ranging from hot and cold sandwiches, freshly brewed coffees, cakes, salads, and much more. Beyond serving as a place to stop by on your visit to the park, the café aims to be a focal point for fostering connections, promoting diversity, and celebrating Greenwich’s heritage.As guests step through the door of the Ignatius Sancho Café, they engage in an experience that encapsulates the ethos of inclusivity, creativity, and community synonymous with the legacy of Ignatius Sancho.For more information and updates, visit Ignatius Sancho Café’s website.

Severn Trent Water’s new £60m operations centre in Coventry, which aims to set new industry standards with one of the lowest carbon footprints for any UK office building, incorporates equally eco-friendly Armourcoat polished plaster.Designed by Birmingham-based Webb Gray Architects, and built by BAM Construction, this highly-sophisticated energy efficient building featuring the latest eco-technology. Designed for low-energy and low-carbon consumption, the offices include thermal adaptive cooling, biomass boilers, photovoltaic panels, solar panels and rainwater harvesting; justifiably achieving a BREEAM ‘excellent’ rating.Armourcoat was used within the reception and main atrium space, to create a stunning and original design statement. Totaling nearly four hundred square metres of hand-applied decorative plaster, Webb Gray specified colourfade artwork for feature panels and curved walls using Armourcoat Spatulata. For the 30-metre high atrium panels, artisan plasterers blended over seventy colours of paste to achieve the seamless finish. Known as ‘stucco lustro veneziano’, Spatulata is a superfine stucco paste that is trowel applied in a series of fine layers to create a highly polished decorative surface. In keeping with the eco specification, the product contains 40% pre-consumer recycled marble.The project also included the use of ‘Anti-Crack’ - an innovative substrate preparation system from Armourcoat which ensures fast-track construction and a tough, unrivalled backing for Armourcoat polished plaster wall finishes. This cost effective, skim-coat plaster is designed for application in 3-4mm layers over plasterboard surfaces. Its use eliminates the need for taping, jointing and sealing the plasterboard surface and provides a first class substrate for Armourcoat finishes.

Our most recent project was in Romford, London. We worked alongside Vincent Stokes on their refurbishment of the changing area at Central Park Leisure Centre. The project included a variety of new furniture for the changing rooms, Helmsman supplied new lockers and bench seating.The client chose our Leisure Lockers, which are manufactured with an aluminium body and solid grade laminate doors. These lockers are specifically designed to withstand an environment subject to high moisture, humidity and chlorine, perfect for swimming pool changing rooms such as this project. The choice of lockers for Central Park Leisure centre were a mix of 1 and 2 compartment lockers.Helmsman’s leisure lockers come in a variety of colours and finishes, and with a variety of suppliers, there’s a huge range of colours to choose from. For this project, Vincent Stokes requested lockers in 3 colours, with Greenlam Laminate doors manufactured in Pearly White, 268 Dust and 297 Blue Galaxy. These colours work brilliantly together and match the rest of the design in the changing rooms perfectly. A popular choice of lock for a leisure centre changing rooms is a coin return lock. The locks used for this project were Ojmar coin return locks, with wrist straps, perfect for a swimming pool environment to keep the keys safe whilst the customer uses the facilities. We also produced bench seating for the project at Central Park Leisure Centre, with both wall to floor benching complete with hook boards, and wall island benching. These were manufactured with Greenlam laminate slats in colour 297 Blue Galaxy to match the lockers and the rest of the changing room design. It was great to work with Vincent Stokes on this project. If you need leisure lockers, bench seating, or have a project you want to chat with us about, give us a call today on 01284 530427 or email specifications@helmsman.co.uk

A chapel was first built at Swan Hill in the town of Shrewsbury in 1767. In 1868, this was demolished and replaced with the current building; schoolrooms were then added in 1880. Charters Property Ltd who specialise in property development, consultancy and project management, recently purchased the deconsecrated church and have transformed the building into a prestigious development of four fabulous homes.Sensitivity was key when renovating the property and the majority of the original features have been preserved. Original stone walls, lintels and cills have been repaired and impeccably replaced. The walls and roofs have been insulated and energy saving measures implemented to create a comfortable, efficient living environment.Although it was possible to restore some of the original fenestration, double glazed replacement steel windows were still required throughout the building. Clement were thrilled to manufacture these new steel windows and doors. Various Clement ranges were used to meet the different criteria required for the project. For example, the Brooking range was used for the beautiful arched head windows on the front elevation as it would best replicate the originals which would have been silicone fronted. EB16 was used for other windows where silicone fronting was not required and W20 was used to make the steel doors. In total over thirty individual windows were specified, all in various shapes and sizes.Clement Conservation Rooflights were also specified, which bring masses of light in through the beautiful, high ceilings.James Charters, Director of Charters Property said “We were very pleased with the attention to detail and finish of the steel windows, Clement took ownership of their section of the project and were able to deliver a complex scheme on time and to a very good standard. They remained client focussed throughout and we will happily use their service again.”Photography: Photos supplied by Charters Property and taken by Kate Sanders Photography

The sound effectAt the same time, it provides effective sound dampening with an impressive acoustic class of ‘A’ to create a harmonious environment wherever it is specified. Feltfon Linear’s appearance is akin to wool, it has a strong textural appeal and represents a further exploration of material innovation.Based on a linear design and so in keeping with Gustafs well-known design language, this iteration of Feltfon can be specified with strips of wood in between the felt ribs, creating an appealing nature-inspired surface solution.Although this solution can be customised for each project, it is a uniquely designed ready-to-use system. Unlike most felt installations, Feltfon Linear uses the standard Capax Quick-Up installation system for walls and ceilings. Fully demountableThis system is sturdy for use in high traffic environments, it has the benefit of being able to grip multiple rib widths and it is also fully demountable during or at the end of its useful life. The range has a thickness of 9mm: comparable products do not usually have such generous proportions. This means it is suitable for high-traffic commercial application, for example, in school environments and other public spaces. Gustafs Acoustex material has a fire rating of B-s1,d0, in line with Gustafs continuing commitment to the fire safety of its products.Sustainable and flexible choiceFlexible in its design, the Feltfon Linear ribs can be chosen from a mix of three wool shades of grey, with many widths and depths to choose from as well. It is a sustainable choice too, with this next generation textile composed from a minimum of 50% post-consumer recycled material.Feltfon Linear pushes the boundaries of what is expected of a felt product system creating an attractive practical solution with infinite possibilities.Feltfon LinearFeltfon Wall installationFeltfon Ceiling installation

The extraordinary, purpose built SuperLab in Oxford provides much needed lab space and fantastic facilities for the next generation of science entrepreneurs and innovators. The new state-of-the-art building is located close to the city centre and the university, which spins out around 15 science firms a year. Created and built by Oxford-based Robin Swailes Design and Development, the SuperLab offers almost 7,000 sq ft of accommodation for up to 84 staff and blends contemporary design with the latest efficiency features while meeting the needs of the modern workforce. The building is made of 95 per cent recycled aluminium and features a grey water system using collected rainwater to flush the toilets, thermal efficient panelling, air source heat pumps and solar panels to minimise its carbon footprint and keep running costs as low as possible. Metal Technology Ltd supplied a range of its high-performance glazing products for this unique development via approved fabricator Alternative Windows. Products used were: System 17 Curtain Walling, System 5-35Hi Tilt Turn Windows, System 4-35Hi Fixed Casement Windows and System 10-35 Thermally Broken Commercial Doors. Curved walls, round windows and open ceilings create a sense of space and wellbeing, topped off with advanced acoustics, quality finishing touches and a playful interior. The result is an inspiring and design-focused workplace that encourages collaboration. Outside, a roof top recreation area provides space for al fresco meetings, eating and drinking with views over Oxford’s Dreaming Spires. A fantastic project to have been involved in, which ultimately encourages young and innovative science pioneers to stay and further their career on home soil.

The £82 million redevelopment of Coventry’s rail station has seen the creation of a new entrance building and multi-storey car park, with Senior Architectural Systems playing a key role in its creation.Designed by AHR Architects, the West Midlands station is one of the busiest outside of London. The project is the latest to have been delivered by Senior and its long-term supply chain partners Elite Aluminium Systems and Buckingham Group Contracting Ltd.Senior’s slimline SF52 aluminium curtain wall system was specified for the main station building, helping to flood the concourse with natural light. Senior’s robust SD automatic commercial sliding doors were also installed to provide secure, safe and accessible access to the thousands of passengers who use the station every day. Additionally, the new-look station also features a footbridge to allow easier access to the platforms and bus interchange.Senior’s slim profile SF52 aluminium curtain wall system provided the ideal balance of aesthetics and performance by allowing copious amounts of light to enter the building and offering enhanced thermal efficiency. The aluminium frames were powder coated to boost durability and also complement the station’s feature grey and red cladding. Senior’s SPW501 aluminium commercial swing doors were also specified throughout to provide a safe and secure solution to such a high traffic environment.The extensive use of glazing on the building also pays homage to the original station building which is located nearby but owing to its Grade II status, could not be extended or developed to meet the increased demand on Coventry’s rail network. Ahead of the wider refurbishment of the original building, the large glazed panels have been used to frame various artwork from local artists and create another focal point for visitors to the city.

The new office development for the New Gorbals Housing Association in Glasgow features a variety of aluminium fenestration solutions. Together these have helped create a light and airy workspace and an impressive centrepiece for the wider regeneration of the area.Located on Crown Street, the new commercial office building is complemented by a new civic piazza and has been designed by Page & Park Architects. Flexibility and adaptability were key focuses for the overall design, with the incorporation of daylighting and natural ventilation strategies to boost wellbeing, and large glazed facades to better connect the building with the local community.The welcoming main entrance has been created using Senior’s slimline and thermally-enhanced SF52 aluminium curtain wall system and SPW501 aluminium commercial doors. The fenestration package also includes Senior’s SPW600e aluminium windows which were used throughout. The ground floor glazing has been recessed to provide privacy to the internal work spaces whilst complementing the overall ‘open’ design of the scheme. In contrast, the first-floor glazing protrudes slightly to maximise views of the surrounding city. Senior’s products were fabricated and installed by Scottech for main contractor CCG.The office environment includes both large areas for group work and smaller, more private booths and is centred around a large timber-clad atrium. The use of internal and external glazed partitions and windows helps balance the space, providing links with both the other areas of the building and the outside. The fenestration package has also been designed to provide those using the building with multiple aspect views and daylighting, whilst avoiding overheating and glare from the summer sun. To further complement the overall façade design which features dark grey zinc cladding, and to boost the durability of the aluminium frames, the windows, doors and curtain wall systems were powder coated.

THE PROJECTRecticel’s Eurothane® GP and Eurowall® Cavity provided the quality PIR solution for two city-based social housing developments. Melody Gardens and Corporation Road in Salford, Manchester were built on behalf of Places for People and For Housing. Watson Homes carried out the work on both developments. For Melody Gardens, it involved the building of a four-storey block compromising 48 apartments; nine two-storey houses, and a bungalow. The properties were built on a 0.4-hectare site once occupied by a Catholic church.THE SOLUTIONEurothane® GP, a low-thermal conductivity panel, provided Melody Gardens’ groundfloor insulation. In conjunction with Eurowall® Cavity, it was also installed at Corporation Road which comprises 18 one-bed and 15 two-bed apartments. The products’ durable thermal performance ensured both developments become a valued addition to Salford’s social housing portfolio.Mike Watson, Construction Director at Watson Homes explained:"Recticel’s high-quality products were essential to ensuring the fabric of both developments was fitted with insulation that will fulfil the occupants’ long-term domestic needs. In terms of installation, the panels’ easy-fit properties made quicker and lighter work of a potentially challenging project."Used products:Eurothane GP: Eurothane® GP is a high performance PIR insulation board that is light weight, easy to cut, handle and install. Whether it’s a pitched roof, framed wall or floor, Eurothane® GP is the ideal solution amongst contractors and installersEurowall® Cavity:Eurowall® Cavity is a specialist high performance solution for cavity walls, with precision-cut straight edges to ensure gaps between boards are kept to a minimum. It has a low emissivity facing which delivers improved thermal resistance within the clear cavity.  

Avantage MP AOVAvantage MP is a 1 and 2 hour fire resistant AOV smoke control damper suitable for multi compartment applications of smoke control such as lobby to smoke shaft ventilators.The product is based on a damper door design and has been tested and certified to BS EN12101-8 achieving 1 and 2 hour fire rating. This is particularly important so to maintain the fire integrity of any shaft.The Avantage AOV smoke control damper is noted for its superior airtight properties. The damper is available as a motorised version providing a practical solution for large buildings where fire safety equipment is regularly testedThe unit is completed with a decorative silver anodised aluminium grille on the front. It fixes into a fire compartment shaft wall and is direct fixed within the opening through the sides of the damper. Once the damper has been securely fixed to the structure any shaft side perimeter gaps must be caulked with intumescent sealing material.Recommended fixing details are available on request to suit an array of fire compartment walls together with safety, installation and maintenance instructions.The front face grille is fixed to the damper unit flange and has the option of being coloured black behind the grille for improved visual appearance. The grilles are attached with concealed fixings.Key featuresSuperior air tightness (tested at -1500 Pa)Minimal pressure dropImproved energy efficiency and acoustic insulationRemovable grille for easy maintenanceAuxiliary switches for remote damper position indicationEfficient robust decorative finishing grille with concealed fixingsThe wiring connection and the drive motor mechanism is accessed lobby side of the ventilator behind the decorative grilleEasy access for service and maintenanceWide range of sizes for optimal selection considering pressure drop and space available

Transforming Small Spaces with Rooflights.In the heart of the English countryside, you’ll find lots of quintessential cottages, often with thatched roofs, just like something you’d find on a postcard. Whilst these cottages are beautiful on the outside, they often lack light and space on the inside.This was the issue a homeowner in Salisbury, Wiltshire ran into when it came to renovating an ensuite shower room in a cottage. The space runs the length of the adjoining bedroom but due to the size of the property, it’s only a few feet wide. The other problem was, it was incredibly dark, with no existing windows or the wall space to install them. The homeowner would need to put their thinking cap on, because this challenge would be the focus of their renovation. Natural light was a top priority to create the bright and airy ensuite space the homeowner imagined for their renovation.With the room not having the wall space to install vertical windows, and because it was in the eaves of the building, there were no floors above it. Thinking creatively, the homeowner opted to use the ceiling space and install rooflights to allow an abundance of natural light to flood into the small space. However, this wasn’t as straightforward as you may think because of the very nature of the homeowner’s quintessential cottage nestled in the English countryside. Being a Grade 2 listed building, planning permission is strict and so the homeowner needed to find the right rooflights that would be in keeping with the property and not upset its overall aesthetic.The Planning Officers themselves were able to help the homeowner with their renovation, pointing them in the direction of the Rooflight Company’s Conservation Rooflight, the Victorian-style rooflight, engineered to modern specification.With their advice, two CR10-2 rooflights were installed to the ensuite bathroom. The finished result is the beautifully light and airy ensuite bathroom that the homeowner had envisioned from the inside, and a period Salisbury cottage still quintessential from the outside.

The FM company of a large Yorkshire Hospital engaged with wall & door protection specialists, Yeoman Shield, to resolve the unsightly and problematic damage that was occurring to fire doors in a busy specialist unit.Such damage, caused by the everyday passage of people, trolleys and equipment, if not attended to, may have become detrimental to the functioning of the fire doors.Yeoman Shield were able to provide a comprehensive fire rated door protection system, which when installed does not affect the fire integrity, to help combat and break the damage cycle, helping to prolong the life of the doors.Door Edge protectors, either FD60 or FD30, according to a doors rating, were installed to the vulnerable leading and hinged edges of the door to prevent chipping and splintering and helping to maintain the recommended 3mm gap between doors and frames.The leaves of the doors were covered with Yeoman Shield’s 2mm thick FalmouthEx protection panels at either full or half height dependent on where the impact was more prevalent, preventing dents or holes from manifesting in the future.Standard glazing beads were replaced with PVCu clad units, complete with corresponding intumescent strip, helping to protect an element of the door much prone to damage.A further part of the fire door refurbishment project was the addition of an Architrave and Stop Lath protection system. These systems come complete with hardwood (stop lath) or MDF core (architrave) with a PVCu cover and as such not only becomes resilient to impact damage but eliminates the requirement for redecoration and repair.Yeoman Shield were able to provide fire certificates for all parts of their fire door protection system offering compliance assurance to the client.For more information on Yeoman Shield cost effective wall & door protection systems go to www.yeomanshield.com or call 0113 279 5854.

Eikon Design has successfully undertaken a major renovation of the Spirit AeroSystems main reception area, creating a stylish, energised space that integrates perfectly with the new corporate branding on its recently completed, world-class £28m Aerospace Innovation Centre.Spirit AeroSystems is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of Aerostructures for commercial airplanes, defence platforms, and business and regional jets. Eikon Design won the contract to design and project manage the reception area renovation.From the start, the designer felt that the refurbished reception area needed to reflect the dynamism and vitality projected by the Innovation Centre. The designers first thoughts were that they had to explore ways of using quality lighting and natural daylight on surfaces to create an impressive, engaging experience for visitors.The colour scheme - The designer Susan Anderson chose a neutral colour scheme that would reflect that used on the exterior of the Aerospace Innovation Centre, which was predominantly silver and grey. Surfaces – HARMONY pre-fixed slatted acoustic felt . Susan wanted to bring the reception area to life with surfaces that had different textures, depending on the light available and where the visitor stood in the room. After researching the market, Susan chose the Harmony ribbed-felt wall acoustic panels which Saxen sourced from the manufacturers, Soundtect. They were the perfect solution – grey fibre slats on a black acoustic sheet, as they had the structure, texture and colour she was looking for. Plus they were hypoallergenic and non-toxic, with up to 1.0 NRC (noise reduction co-efficient) – and a totally sustainable addition to the project, having been manufactured third-generation from recycled PET.The PET (polyethylene terephthalate) bottles are first recycled into exhibition carpets and then, at the end of their short second life, converted again into highly efficient acoustic felt by carefully re-layering the fibres to use as the core for this impressive, elegant, ribbed acoustic treatment.The Harmony panels are manufactured with fireproofing built-in, because the original carpet fibres were already fireproof so this critical safety component is integral to the product and not simply sprayed on. The Cause was responsible for fitting all the ribbed Harmony wall panels.The wooden wall panels behind the reception desk were dated, so the designer decided to repurpose them.- they were prepped, base coat applied and sprayed with two beautiful tones of metallic silver by Scottish Architectural Spray painters. Visual contrast was provided by prepped and coated matt white wall areas. LightingHaving found the perfect panelling, the designer had to consider the lighting and the role it would play. She worked with Seren Lighting, using a combination of existing products and bespoke lighting in ways which were both innovative and functional – using light to define spaces and surfaces. Depending on the way they were lit – whether artificial light, natural light or a mixture of both – the texture on the Harmony panels created subtly different moods. Also, as there is a fair amount of daylight flooding into the reception, the atmosphere of the whole space changed with the passing of time and the amount of daylight with both the ribbed and silver metallic panels creating different atmospheres depending on where you stood. All the lights installed in the project follow ‘circular economy’ principles and can be cost-effectively maintained and serviced – parts can be replaced with no need to throw the whole light away and buy a new one. The reception deskFor most of the day in summer and for short periods in winter, the reception area is flooded with natural light from two sides, so lighting the reception desk workstation needed a careful response.The workstation was located behind the reception desk, so using standard lighting methods would have detracted from the overall impression and been unnecessary for long periods. In developing the solution, the designer followed the basic principle, ‘put light where you want it, when you need it’. So an LED ultra-effect strip in diffuse profile was used under the top surface of the reception desk which threw a subtle light onto where the receptionist was working on the computer. The receptionist can switch this strip on or off as appropriate.The Cause remodelled and reformatted the reception desk to the design, which involved removing the angled elements and large posts, and replacing them with a concealed door. They also fitted the reception desk surface with a stylish, matt, dark-grey laminate, installing the lighting, graphic panel and ribbed panelling to the front. The panelling’s flexibility ensured a perfect fit around the curve in the reception desk.The reception desk skirting was painted the same colour as the staircase handrail.The Wing LightsThese were designed to develop the Wing Lights from first principle. The Wing Lights deliver light upwards, so it bounces off the various surfaces to enhance the textures and reflective differences. They also project a visual link to the ‘star’ element of the Spirit AeroSystems logo and took several attempts to create the final geometric shape. However, the Wing Lights now act as dramatic focal point within the space, capturing the essence of Spirit AeroSystems’ business and the designers overall design vision.CeilingThe existing suspended ceiling was off-white in colour, and looked rather tired so it was spray-painted with a dark metallic silver, which transformed the appearance of the ceiling and changed the whole look of the reception area. Lighting the upper-level walkwayThere were issues with uneven wall surfaces on the upper-level walkway. The solution was to apply architecturally inspired Harmony, lit by dramatic custom-made LEDs, to create the total effect – an utterly stunning, modern wall. The lights used were twin gimbal heads – round lights that can swivel in two directions. These were specially adapted from standard lights in the Seren range. The twin gimbal heads were installed in false pockets, clad with ribbed-felt. They provide functional lighting to the walkway, while adding a dramatic effect on the wall panelling.Finally, a pelmet was constructed to conceal a new LED Cob profile, allowing it to wash diffused light between the ribbed features of the Harmony panelling.The panels above the pelmet were spray-painted silver – the same colour as the ceiling – to give a much more dramatic effect.Other features…The wooden bannister handrail was stripped back and layered with different metallic colours to give a changing surface effect with different shadows and highlights. It was then coated in a high-gloss lacquer. This introduced an accent of colour, which also reflected the company’s corporate colours.StructuresDominating the reception area are two high columns, one of which contains a lift. Given the solidity and simplicity of the shapes, the designer decided on a lighting solution that would create an architectural feel, so she used beam-controlled light bars at the top of the structures to project a subtle wash down the full length of the columns.Carpets and furnitureThe existing carpet tiles were removed and upgraded. They were colour coordinated with the new, striking Italian Quadrifoglio furniture, sourced through Saxen. This furniture was the cornerstone of the designers vision vision, and its style, shape, colours and textures tie the space together.ConclusionThe success of the project was very much down to careful planning, creative thought and good people working together. Products used: Freestyle. Harmony

A total of three kitchens were supplied by GEC Anderson to this prestigious residential development, just off London’s Portland Square. CIE, who were commissioned to provide the kitchens, chose GEC Anderson to supply and fit the stainless steel worktops. GEC Anderson were the natural choice for CIE as they had worked many times with them in the past. The detailing specified by CIE included upstands (edge 10) to all wall junctions, combined with a plain edge (7) to exposed edges. The large worktop coverage made access and installation into the tight mews homes quite challenging. The unique features of each kitchen, including columns and cutouts also made the accuracy in the measuring of the worktops very critical. Supply and installation of the worktops was handled by GEC Anderson.