"fabric membrane buildings inflatable structures"

More than 40 bespoke column casings from Pendock were installed as part of a £10.5 million refurbishment programme at Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre (NEC) to improve the main piazza and facilities.Three different styles of casings were used on the project, the building’s square section structural columns concealed with either circular or extended circular pre-formed ply/MDF casings, finished durable high-pressure laminate (HPL), spanning the floor to ceiling height of around 4 metres.In addition, a series of narrow elliptical casings, finished in red HPL, were manufactured to provide visible signalling of each hall’s entrances. The entrance ‘fins’ also incorporate chrome numbers to identify individual halls.

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.

A large expanse of Junckers’ Nordic Oak flooring forms part of a new archive and research facility in Cornwall. Designed by Purcell, the landmark development comprises public search, exhibition, education and workshop spaces. Based on historic records, many of the original buildings’ remaining structures were restored. For the floor, the original granite flagstones were lifted and re-laid, installed alongside Junckers’ solid 185mm wide Oak Boulevard flooring in a white-pigmented Nordic finish. Junckers 20.5mm thick solid wood floor can be sanded and refinished up to ten times. A long lifespan, PEFC + FSC certified and produced in a CO2 positive facility, means specifying a Junckers floor is an environmentally sound option. The flooring contractor was Tre Concepts. 

A unique Ridgeway project required modern balustrade infill panels for a brand-new four-storey flagship sports retailer store in Oxford Street, London.Ridgeway chose PcP gratings for this project as they knew they would receive the professional service required to complete this project on time without compromising on quality. The mesh gratings complied with requirements governing bar alignment.A modern architectural solution with a perfect finish including bar alignment where appropriate was manufactured, and fabrication drawings within all tolerances provided.About RidgewayRidgeway is a large stockist and supplier to main contractors in both Ireland, where the company is based, and the UK. Ridgeway is also a renowned customer-oriented supplier of innovative construction solutions.The criteriaAfter having worked as a trusted partner with PcP for various construction projects, it was easy for Ridgeway to find the right company to supply balustrade and infill panels.Ridgeway required fast delivery to meet their project schedule without any comprises being made to the quality of the finished product combined with close technical support, including product technical information, data sheets and material certifications.To meet the strict requirements for dimensions and bar alignment, PcP provided relevant technical information and a product data specification proposal which complied with relevant standards.The solutionRidgeway chose PcP’s MESH gratings for panel infills in galvanised steel to complete the staircase systems on all four storeys in the store. The alternative solution proposed by PcP exceeded quality expectations and was tailor-made with a flawless finish and customised cut-outs to match the design. The product was developed and manufactured to meet Ridgeway’s project schedule and included suitable fixings.PcP exceeded project requirements and expectations as regards both value and aesthetics, including the supply of ready-to-install panels and fabrication drawings which took into consideration bar alignment, cut-outs and suitable fixings where appropriate. Collaborating with PcP supports Ridgeway’s goal of delivering quality construction solutions on time.Technical supportDuring the entire collaboration – from product development to delivery – Ridgeway received ongoing technical support from PcP’s local experts based in Ireland who functioned as a first point of contact for assisting with any queries that Ridgeway had during the project.In addition, PcP’s internal and external staff ensured that samples, technical info, data sheets, company certificates etc. were supplied as required.On receipt of the order, full fabrication drawings were provided which took into account tolerances and bar alignment, including raked panels and notches where required.

Artist Ruurd Hollema designed an iconic piece of art for a roundabout on Reggesingel Street, Rijssen, The Netherlands. At 8.5 metres high and 11 metres in width this inspirational design is called “Fingers” due to the large interlocking timber beams. The structure is manufactured using 20m3 of Accoya wood in dimensions of 38mm x 150mm glue-laminated together. The customer, joiner and contractor De Groot Vroomshoop Gelijmde Houtconstructies b.v. constructed and built the eye catching structure with no coating except for an end sealer. The large glue laminated beams measure 0.18m x 6m x 11m.

The rigour and texture of the technical Trust porcelain stoneware characterise the look of the important business park HK-Østjylland in Brabrand (Denmark).The structure houses a number of offices where improved business operations are supported by cutting-edge architectural choices. Trust, in the 45x90 cm format and Titanium colour, perfectly meets the structure’s high quality and functionality requirements: Atlas Concorde’s modern ceramic technologies guarantee high performances also in a commercial context. In addition, the original diagonal layout of the tiles highlights the rich details and the intense chromatic variegations of Trust, contributing to achieve an elegant and contemporary décor.

Eurosafe Solutions undertook the challenge and provided a safety solutions to Scotland’s Largest Art Installation, the Kelpies. Working alongside the main contractor on the project, SH Structures, Eurosafe Solutions supplied and installed an internal ladder within each of the horse heads, one 19 meters high and another 21 meters high whilst also providing rope access assistance to the installers of the structures external cladding. The ladders provided by Eurosafe Solutions consist of multiple sections of Glideloc “Y” spar ladder sections, with a pivot section at the front of each which can be locked to prevent unauthorised use.

Ultrascape's BS 7533 compliant mortar paving system has played a major role in helping to transform one of the UK's busiest train stations. The long awaited redevelopment of Birmingham New Street station has transformed what was previously a dark, overcrowded site into a prestigious gateway to the UK's second city. Work was carried out by MPB Structures Ltd. It included reinstating existing station platforms, installing new structures, hardscaping around the station perimeter and the creation of Birmingham's version of the 'Spanish Steps.' The paving was installed using Ultrascape's BS 7533 compliant mortar paving system.

Reflections in Chesterton, by HC Moss (Builders) Ltd, won Best Small Development in the Cambridge News Property Awards to become the latest in a long list of award-winning projects to feature Neaco products. Paul Ursell of HC Moss (Builders) Ltd explained the benefits of using Neaco’s structural glass: “We incorporated frameless bi-fold doors and needed to match this with frameless glass balustrade affording a seamless outlook over the river. Every detail needed to be very high-end so we specified a stainless steel top rail to cap the structural glass.”

StoVentec Glass rainscreen cladding has a prominent position at the new Very Light Rail National Innovation Centre (VLRNIC) in Dudley. The RAL 3028 red coloured glass panels were installed by Metclad using Sto’s sophisticated sub-construction. This invisible yet indispensable supporting structure forms the structural link between the façade and the substrate and enabled the individual StoVentec Glass panels to be installed and secured easily to provide a bright, colourful façade for the building’s main signage.The VLRNIC was funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council (DMBC), the Black Country Local Enterprise Partnership (BCLEP) in partnership with the Midlands Engine Investment Fund (MEIF), the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership (CWLEP) and Coventry City Council. The Black Country Innovative Manufacturing Organisation (BCIMO) is a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee and the driving force behind this multi-purpose centre which offers a host of unique facilities including a Rail Development and Test Site, Engineering Laboratories, Serviced Offices and an Events Suite. BBA accredited, StoVentec Glass panels are suitable for internal and external use, for new build or refurbishment projects and can be installed within high-traffic areas as the system has passed all industry standard soft-body and hard-body impact tests to CWCT standards. You can choose from a wide range of colours, either single-colour, multi-colour or metallics with a gloss, reflective or matt finish. Design: WSP UK Client: The Black Country Innovative Manufacturing Organisation Sto Applicator: Metclad Sto Expertise: StoVentec Glass A2 rainscreen cladding, RAL colour 3028 Photo credit: BCIMO & Daniel Graves Photography

Horizons is one of the most recent additions to the skyline on the north bank of the Thames and offers 190 private apartments with stunning views from their substantial private terraces. Two luxury residential developments housed in connected blocks.One of the architectural challenges was to maximise the spectacular panorama and at the same time conserve the local heritage around. The considerable number of balconies involved throughout the development also demanded the minimisation of any possible structural or thermal bridging problems. The Schöck Isokorb® T structural thermal break comfortably met the specification and as the project involved precast balconies, specialists Marble Mosaic had a big part to play as well.The joint MD Dennis Vittle: “This particular project required the balcony units to be not only integral with the main structure, but also insulated and fire-stopped from it. The Schöck Isokorb® T type K was the natural solution. There was a requirement for 345 individual precast balconies throughout the two blocks and the project posed a number of new challenges to MMC’s and the Schöck design team. As well as standard insulated balcony to slab connections there were also a number of downstand and upstand connections required. Also the precast columns were supported off the balcony slab at one end only, so there was a heavy eccentric shear load transfer. The agreed design called for the use of a combination of Schöck Isokorb® T types K and Q to ensure structural integrity with the frame, whilst avoiding any clashes with the concrete frame reinforcement”.

Lödige installed ESCORTA goods lift in Bad Hersfeld, GermanyAt the end of 2015 a passenger and goods lift was installed for Libri. The customer needed a lift which would enable the transportation of goods and passengers up to 9.5 m with 4 stops. Furthermore, it was required to find a solution to easily install within an existing warehouse. ESCORTA from Lödige was the perfect answer for the customer’s needs and structural requirements. The lift is delivered as a free-standing structure and does not require any pit. Therefore the installation was quick and easy. Additionally thanks to its new certification (European Machinery Directive 2006/42/EG und DIN EN 81-41) multiple persons can now simply ride in the lift with their goods to the desired floor. This increases the level of comfort, making transporting goods between levels much easier and more pleasant.ChallengesA solution was searched to transport goods and passengers at once.A compact solution was needed which did not require a lot of space and could be easily integrated into the existing warehouse.The lift had to meet individual needs of customers referring to the structural conditions in the warehouse.Solution and benefitsESCORTA goods only lift from Lödige does not require any pit and is delivered as a free-standing lift structure, thus it was easily installed into the already existing warehouse.The lift was offered as a tailored made product – exactly meeting the requirements of the customer.In the ESCORTA goods lift multiple persons can ride with their goods to the desired floor level.

Client: Bruntwood Estates Specialist Contractor: Grade-2 Structural Repairs Main Products Used: Emseal SJS SystemThis busy, multi-storey, prime location, car park is located between Manchester United’s Old Trafford Football Stadium, Lancashire’s Old Trafford Cricket Ground and Trafford House, a 12-Storey commercial development. The businesses use the car park during the week and then it is reserved for MUFC fans on matchdays and weekends. The car park was undergoing scheduled structural inspection, when it was discovered that the traditional compression joints were failing in the wide structural movement joints on the access ramps. This meant they were now leaking and allowing water ingress, which could lead to damaging salt deposits on expensive vehicles, as well as potential corrosion and damage to the reinforced concrete decks and the structural frame itself. These joints needed to be made watertight and accommodate significant horizontal and vertical movement, as well as traffic impact and weathering. The engineers looked for a solution that could safely repair and seal the joints, but with only minimal ramp closure or downtime, and the Emseal SJS System was selected as the ideal solution, as it could be installed in just two short, phased closures at weekends, when there were no home games. In the first weekend, with only one lane closed, the failed compression joint was removed and the joint arrisses made good with fast setting resin, then on the next weekend closure, the bespoke lengths of Emseal SJS were installed with access only required from above.  

Being positioned along The Highway, a major east-west route into central London, Ensign Court is a 14-storey high-rise build that symbolises the beginning of London’s heart, welcoming people into its urban core and existing as an important representation of its character.With this metropolitan embodiment in mind, the development is a statement of modernity and urbanity, requiring contemporary designs and cutting-edge materials to establish a framework of quality and character, to accompany its remarkable location.Project BreakdownHaving been previously occupied by commercial space, Ensign Court was rebuilt to offer 65 residential units designed to accommodate for affordable rent, shared ownership and private sale, as well as 7 units of new commercial space on the ground floor. To support its modern appeal, the project was intended for Class A use and therefore required an effective non-combustible balcony solution that would enhance its stylish aesthetic and ensure durability for the safety of its residents.The SolutionBeing compliant with the latest fire safety law, Hyperion Aluminium 145 Pro-Grip aluminium decking was used to furnish the 520 m² of balcony and terrace areas on this build, complete with fire-rated edging, joists, pedestals and screws. This beautifully engineered A2 fire-rated aluminium decking board was used in the colour Dusty Grey, perfectly fitting the contemporary aesthetic of the Ensign Court build with elegance, simplicity and style. With market-leading value and Qualicoat certified power coating, this non-combustible decking system was the ideal addition to this exquisite development, offering assured safety, high slip resistance and refined aesthetics.EnviroBuild will continue to push towards the ever-improving innovation of non-combustible systems, and strive to lead the rise of safer, fire-rated solutions for both commercial and residential construction.Project DetailsSize: 520 m²Product: Dusty Grey Hyperion 145 Pro-Grip, MESA Non-combustible Pedestals, MESA Aluminium Joists, Aluminium Edging, MESA Protective Membranes, Screws, FastenersContractor: ENGIEArchitect: Maccreanor LavingtonDeveloper: L&QLocation: London

A friendly and welcoming school based in Blackburn in the North West of England, St Stephens Church of England Primary School is a place where pupils can develop their skills in a school that is proud of its Christian values and high standards of teaching. The school has been praised for its philosophy of continuous improvement by a recent ofsted inspection, providing a nurturing environment for children.Continuing the high level of teaching facilities was paramount for the school, and after discovering that the gutters and parapets of the building were aged and leaking, it was vital that a solution was found before this caused issues.The ChallengeIn coordination with Polyroof Products Ltd a survey was scheduled to take place at the site to determine the exact nature of the issues and formulate a solution. Upon inspection it was discovered that the existing waterproofing consisted of a single-ply membrane which had become aged with various leaks being reported and localised repairs carried out with not much effect. The underlying build-up consisted of a galvanised steel metal deck and had been coated in plasticol. Once the survey was complete it was clear that the gutters and capping’s would benefit from a high-performance waterproofing system installation, this would protect from further leaks occurring.The SolutionThe System of choice for this project was Protec Xtraflex. Protec Xtraflex is a highly flexible version of the Protec system designed for coating gutters. Its fast curing technology and imperviousness to standing water fulfilled the rapid solution needed to offer durable waterproofing performance for this project. Taking into consideration the information obtained from the survey, a bespoke Polyroof specification was created to combat all of the issues discovered. The chosen Polyroof Approved Contractor to carry out the work on this project was the KSD Group, a contractor with a wealth of experience in the roofing and construction sector.Once all these aspects were in place, work could officially begin. Firstly, it was highlighted that falls and drainage were already present, so the Polyroof specification made use of the existing falls, combining this with the chosen waterproofing system. During this project, there was no need to strip back any of the existing waterproofing. It was made good where required, allowing a smooth substrate for the new system to be bonded to. Once this stage was complete, the area was cleaned and prepared for the new system by removing any dirt and debris. The Protec Xtraflex system was now ready for installation. Firstly, all surfaces that required it were primed, including the single ply existing waterproofing, which required a Polyroof SP Primer 202. During this installation, all lap joints and bolt heads were applied with Polyroof Butyl Tape and Polyroof Butyl Lap Tape, reinforcing these points before application. Pre-formed high-quality Polyroof drip trims were installed to the outer edge of the metal capping, and new flashings were also installed to cover the exposed insulation at this detail.The first coat of Polyroof Protec Xtraflex was applied to the substrate. This consisted of Xtraflex resin and Polymat 450 and was allowed to cure. Due to the rapid cure technology of the system, this only took 30 – 60 minutes, allowing for quick installation. Once complete, the second coat of Protec Xtraflex Resin was installed and allowed to cure.CompletionThe project was efficiently managed by both the contractor KSD Group and regular Polyroof Technical Services visits to ensure that each aspect of the project from start to finish was carried out within the client’s specification, time frame and budget. The project was a great success showing the high-quality work from KSD Group. The customer can now be confident that this new Polyroof Protec Xtraflex membrane will last for many decades to come.

Non-Conductive, Anti-Slip Flooring and Walkways | Case StudyArena Events Group chose Dura Composites to supply the tiered structure stadium decking for the seating and platform areas, manufactured from our high quality and corrosion-resistant Glass Reinforced Polymer (GRP) Dura Slab 40 and 20 products which provided an anti-slip, fire-tested and load-tested alternative to the Buffalo® Board and traditional plywood used previously. Dura Composites’ ability to be able to meet a range of stringent test requirements including flare resistance tests and FEA analysis made us the ideal choice for this high profile project which not only allows for future changes to seating configurations, but also improves access to amenities on the concourse. The two types of Dura Slab used on this project are precision engineered GRP structural flooring systems that provide an incredible strength to weight ratio. High strength fibreglass composite is pultruded in one mass to produce a consistent quality flooring structure that is also non-corrosive, chemically resistant – and has an anti-slip walking surface.

The Spirit of Sittingbourne is a town within itself, offering town centre shopping, city living, hotel and a cinema complex.Within the Travelodge on this town centre development Soundis provided Soundis Acoustic Battens overlaid with an 18mm OSB and mineral wool insulation between the battens. This specification is a perfect combination of providing great impact and airborne acoustic performance due to the resilient layer pre-bonded to the battens along with the void created by the battens and the added mass within the build up from the mineral wool insulation.Acoustic solutions for both airborne and impact noises...The cinema specification on this project was a lot more specialised as are all solutions to the required acoustic flooring within cinemas. The system used on this project was the Soundis CineSystem – Ultra (Concrete/Structural Screed), one of two CineSystems which Soundis offer for anti vibration flooring requirements. This system is the natural choice of a floated build-up when there are no constraints in regard to weight, distribution etc. due the additional mass that this system provides and offers the greatest acoustic benefit.

Canonbie Road was home to a former hostel, which was demolished to construct a three-storey building comprising six council homes for families requiring temporary accommodation. Led by Lewisham Council as part of their programme to deliver new affordable council homes across the borough, the development includes dual-aspect family units of two and three beds in two wings that step with the sloping site. Each flat has generous private amenity space, access to a shared tree-lined garden and twelve cycle spaces.Cellecta’s YELOfon HD10+ was specified by Avanti Architects due to the system being lightweight, easy to install, and delivers unrivalled acoustic performance when used to isolate a floating screed from a structural concrete floor. YELOfon HD10+ is an acclaimed resilient layer system that carries 3 proprietary Robust Details: E-FC-5, 17 & 18.Building Associates Limited were supplied 450m² of Cellecta products for this development in Forest Hill.

Premier Inn located on Custom House Street in Cardiff is a Grade II listed building built in the mid 1800s. It has recently been transformed into a 248-bedroom hotel and associated bar and block restaurant.Custom House has been carefully renovated in accordance with the architectural plans, preserving its listed facades and historical elements. The scheme's concept was based on the goal of creating a superior tower that will blend in with Cardiff's ring of towering structures, serve as a backdrop for the historic Custom House building, and revitalise it from street level.KEIM Soldalit Fixativ was applied onto the newly lime rendered surfaces to equalise surface porosity. A coat of KEIM Soldalit Grob was used to act as a bridging coat on the painted render and to fill hairline cracks to create an even texture throughout. The technical representative, Bryan Roe, of KEIM Mineral Paints recommended the KEIM Soldalit-ME paint system by reason of withstanding the pollution with the added benefit of a long-expected lifespan.

Over 20,000m² N65/400 stucco embossed aluminium site-rolled to minimise transport requirements. Engineered structural deck to single span 9 metres

111 The Strand, is an eight storey landmark office and retail building in central London. The property occupies a corner position on the Strand with a return frontage to Savoy Place. The majority of the 30,549 ft² office space is let to CVC Capital Partners.The iconic building is well-known for its contemporary appearance. The limestone façade with metal frames with curved bays of stone and glass, and a stone relief depicting the surrounding area truly stands out.With the recent acquisition of the long leasehold office building, the private equity firm CVC Advisors Ltd found it time for a complete refurbishment. The existing reception area and office floor 1 to 6 were stripped and upgraded to Category-B Standard. This is inclusive of new MEPH installations and a commercial kitchen fit out to service the meeting room suites and dining areas.Stravifloor Channel, a floating floor system using isolated steel channels with proprietary elastomeric pads, four layers of plywood, and a special damping layer was installed in the catering kitchen on the 5th floor of this fit-out project. The isolated steel batten system with enhanced stiffness was designed to minimise the transfer of impact noise to the office floors below.During the installation, an elastic Perimeter Strip was applied around the floors’ perimeter, to completely decouple it from the building structure.

An entrance that needed reviving and improved functionGeorge Eliot Hospital is based in Nuneaton, Warwickshire. It provides a full range of emergency and elective medical services to the local area, including maternity services.Project Year: 2022Product: UniturnProject Background: We were contacted directly from the hospital’s Estates Department to review an existing traditional sliding door entrance, with a view to proposing a solution to upgrade to a high capacity revolving door. An important need was to improve the temperature in the reception area, enabling climate control.The existing entrance lobby was too narrow to accommodate both the revolving door and necessary adjacent pass doors to meet Equal Access requirements and so we had to come up with a different solution.Solution: To overcome the narrow lobby entrance we proposed to locate the revolving door in front of the existing lobby’s footprint, which in turn required the building’s foundation slab to be extended under the revolving door location.This solution required detailed technical and design input from FES to the client’s nominated building contractor and design team to ensure that the build was both structurally sound, aesthetically pleasing and met the relevant building regulations.The Uniturn has improved accessibility in and out of the hospital and has provided energy savings and temperature control, resulting in a successful project.

Aurora is a first-class, highly sustainable office building in the heart of the city of Bristol and one of the greenest offices outside London and among only six in the UK to achieve a special BREEAM 2014 Outstanding Environmental Award for its sustainability credentials. Aurora, which provides 95,000 square foot of Grade A office space on the Floating Harbour, also achieved LEED ‘Gold Standard’ and is currently the only building in Bristol to exceed BCO design guide criteria.The aim of the design was to provide a space that is efficient, offers maximum natural daylight and promotes health, wellbeing and productivity amongst users. To achieve this inspiring working environment Lusso provided and installed the glazed partitions to create a stunning glass atrium within the 7-storey building. This was a challenging design which involved close collaboration between Lusso, Bush Consultancy, and Willmott Dixon to create a system where the framework floated off the slab edge. The structural complexity of this atria required a bespoke solution, which involved close collaboration with the architects from conception.The Lusso 25M single glazed framed system was used within the interior of the building which allows the maximum amount of daylight possible uniformly spread throughout the interior making Aurora, arguably, one of the best office space Bristol currently has to offer.

The Hurlford Avenue new build project, situated on the former Garscadden Primary School site, truly harnesses innovation and design. This ‘Modern Methods of Construction’ project, completed in partnership with CCG, showcases technical prowess and constructional excellence.Garscadden Primary School closed back in 2017 but the 1930s school building remained standing. Spotting the potential for something impressive on the site, Glasgow Housing Association proposed a modern replacement – a portfolio of properties.The key requirement was to build modern, energy efficient homes which would provide much-needed affordable housing in the sought-after area of Dumbarton and make a significant difference to the local community.After extensive planning, focusing on matching an appropriate insulation system with a complementary finish, K Systems devised a comprehensive delivery plan using our unrivalled experience and expertise.CCG fabricated the building off-site with timber kits and incorporated elements from our Aricco system, with the final finish being completed on-site. This approach was advantageous for a few reasons, including the speed of construction and a reduction in required labour.Hurlford Avenue is a prime example of our experience with off-site modular builds and our project-specific approach to EWI solutions. We brought Glasgow Housing Association’s vision to life and delivered 28 houses and 42 flats for mid-market rent.Our ServiceThe build of the Hurlford Avenue development wasn’t without its challenges. Precision planning was required to ensure minimal disruption to the residents in surrounding estates. All traffic ways remained free for passage and noise pollution was kept to a minimum.During the build, our team encountered some detailing challenges. However, working directly with the contractor and main contractor, these challenges were quickly resolved by key colleagues within our Technical Team, and the build remained on schedule and of the highest quality.From specification and design to planning, delivery and evaluating, our team transformed a derelict site to a contemporary multi-dwelling development that rejuvenated the Dumbarton area.“I would like to thank everyone on the K Systems technical support team for their contribution in accomplishing the Aricco System project at Hurlford Avenue. The regular visits from senior technicians always go a long way to keeping any project in check and it makes the job of our management much easier by having honest, professional judgement to go back to our guys, with well earned praise on this occasion. Everyone was onboard from the outset in working around any potential difficulties and you will agree it shows in the final results.”Garry Barton, Contractor.Technical Project DetailsAs the client of this project, Scotland based construction company CCG, approached K Systems to provide a suitable façade solution that would complement their design. A build with timber kits and a drained ventilated cavity system was specified, along with a silkolitt thin coat render finish.CCG are renowned for off-site manufacturing (OSM) and manufactured the kits from their production site in near-by Cambuslang. They sourced the correct material according to our exact specification. CCG’s ‘iQ’ System was chosen, which is designed with a fabric-first approach where greater tolerances are determined by fewer junctions and thermal bridges to deliver enhanced U-values and significantly improve airtightness. By incorporating OSM and the iQ system into this project, it is just a small insight into our unrivalled knowledge and expert approach that we take to fulfil the requirements of our clients.For the supporting façade, the K Systems Aricco system was specified - a drained ventilated cavity system perfectly suited for use in low rise buildings, particularly new build projects and timber framed construction. The Aricco system is also the most compatible with offsite/modular construction techniques and boasts an A2-s1, d0 fire rating and therefore complies with the latest building regulations, ensuring the safety of all residents.The finish was just as important as the façade system, with the cost-effective, industry-leading Silkolitt thin coat render specified. Silkolitt renders provide a contemporary finish to new-build applications, something this project very much required to modernise the area. Silkolitt is simple to apply, and its hydrophobic properties makes the render low maintenance. It also has excellent vapour permeability, allowing the Hurlford Avenue properties to breathe and avoid interstitial condensation. It is the most flexible system on the market, making cracking over its lifetime less likely and therefore delivering a pleasing aesthetic with outstanding longevity.The combinations specified by the K Systems team resulted in the build of impressive dwellings boasting a U-value of 0.13W/m ² K – meaning homes were easier and cheaper to heat, a particularly attractive benefit given the current cost of living crisis.

With RoofDek as the structural deck, the school’s roofs feature rainwater harvesting, high levels of thermal insulation, natural ventilation, green sedum roofs and solar thermal panels.

FIREFLY™ Phoenix has been employed at the iconic RAF Manston History Museum, located near Ramsgate in Kent, during the refurbishment of a single storey structure

Flooring specialists Laceys Floors and Walls have used UltraFloor Level IT Hydra Bond to install 170sqm of flooring at Rushcliffe Country Park.BackgroundGreen Flag award winners since 2007, Rushcliffe Country Park is a popular visitor attraction in Nottinghamshire. Work is currently underway to renovate the visitor centre including staff office and toilets.The ChallengeExpert flooring specialists, Laceys Floors and Walls were the contractors commissioned to install 170sqm of flooring throughout the visitor centre. To complete the installation, Laceys Floors and Walls needed subfloor materials that would provide a super smooth finish to avoid any trip hazards and would withstand constant trafficking of visitors.The SolutionTo begin, Laceys Floors and Walls applied DPM IT damp proof membrane across the entire 170sqm area. DPM IT is a two component, solvent free epoxy resin system for use as a surface damp proof membrane. Designed to provide protection against subfloor moisture, DPM IT has a pot life of 45 – 75 minutes, a cure time of 5 hours and boasts a 98% RH floor moisture tolerance.Once fully cured, the team applied UltraFloor’s latest product innovation, Level IT Hydra Bond to a depth of 3-5mm.Level IT Hydra Bond is a super polymer modified smoothing compound which utilises UltraFloor’s unique technology – a process which enhances application and boasts unrivalled flow properties. What’s more, each bag of Level IT Hydra Bond also contains 20% recycled material.In addition, Level IT Hydra Bond can receive bonded floor coverings after 4 hours, has an extended working time of 45 minutes for optimal usability, and is moisture tolerant and protein free.To complete the project, Polysafe Wood FX and Verona flooring was installed throughout the visitor centre, office and toilets.ResultsThe flooring was installed with ease and Rushcliffe County Park’s exciting new visitor centre is due to open later this year.“Level IT Hydra Bond was a real pleasure to work with. It was easy to trowel and float on the floor and knitted together great between mixes. It even went nicely on the previous days screeding.” Richard Lacey, Director at Laceys Floors and Walls.

The Greatham Managed Realignment Scheme was part of the Environment Agencies wider " Tees tidal Flood Risk Management Strategy" which imposed a legal requirement upon the Environment Agency to deliver intertidal habitats as compensation for the impact of flood management projects. The challenge was to construct embankments comprising predominantly of site won material. THe size, scale and nature of the works dictates a tight time scale was maintained to ensure rapid return to its natural state. ABGs Erosamat Type 3 was chose, comprising 3 dimensional structure and entangled filaments. Erosamat forms a permanent composite with the natural vegetative root structure supported.

Escape reality with a thrilling adventure playground experience in Melbourne, Australia! The playground distributed by our local channel partner Lark Industries is located in Lyndarum North Estate and is home to the awe-inspiring Cubic tower - an architectural wonder of modern play.Vibrantly designed estate playspaceReaching 8 meters tall and constructed from 3 cubes and cuboids stacked on top of each other, this colossal structure invites children to push their boundaries as they explore its dizzying heights for unforgettable views! With both single high structures or more challenging double variants available come along for a day filled with fun that will leave lasting memories.

The Loxley Shelter is our 100% plastic free cycle shelter. Made from recyclable galvanised steel and redwood from an FSC environmentally certified source, this shelter is the eco-friendly answer to sustainable cycle storage. The frame and roof construction is predominately structural graded timber to EN14081-2, pressure preservative treated with Tanalith® E against fungal decay and insect attack. Shelter feet are of steel construction for structural strength and to increase the life of the timber by keeping it away from the damp ground. Roof covering is fully recyclable galvanized steel,even the locknuts and roofing washers are plastic free alternatives.

Over 100,000 Ancon Rebar Couplers were used to support the concrete of one of the longest cable-stayed bridges in the world. Reinforcing bars which strengthen the concrete deck, towers and end piers had to be reliably, mechanically connected end to end throughout the structure. To perform this hidden, but vital structural task, Bartec Plus Parallel Threaded Couplers were selected from the comprehensive Ancon range. Various types and sizes, to match rebar diameters from 12-40mm, were supplied, with the three largest sizes being used to join reinforcement running the full height of the three 680ft support towers.

A decorating contractor has praised Dulux Trade SmartShield+ after they were able to transform the exterior of a block of flats with the new product. The residential building in Loughton, Essex, had been suffering with the effects of water ingress and pollution over the years which has damaged both the exterior of the building as well as leaking inside. Cracks had appeared to the render of the building causing the water to leak into the fabric of the building. Contractor Armour Hart Group Ltd were tasked by The Square’s management firm Moat Homes with maintaining the cyclical decorations and associated repairs to the building and on identification of the issues consulted with partners Dulux Trade. Following an inspection from Dulux Trade the contractors agreed to use a specification containing Dulux Trade Plus SmartShield+ Exterior Clearcoat on the stonework to deliver the job. The first task was the cleaning and repair of the render and decorative edging after they had become infested with moss and lichen and this was adding to water ingress throughout the building. Both areas were cleaned and repaired before the waterproofing coating of SmartShield+ was applied to the decorative stone work throughout the property. Due to the specially formulated Dulux Trade Plus SmartShield+ the substrate was able to breathe and dry out after the repairs and coating had been completed. The pediment detail to the front of the building had also picked up grime over the years - and had been saturated during bad-weather and so repairs and cleaning of this area was also performed. Dulux Trade carried out inspections throughout the process and all of the cracks were repaired, sealed, coated and then painted to bring the whole building back to life. Armour Hart Group Ltd made the final checks to make sure the coating was waterproof - and were happy to report Dulux Trade Plus SmartShield+ passed the test. Phil Long at Armour Hart Group said; “Dulux Trade has supported us throughout this project so we were able to provide the best maintenance job possible to our clients. “Years of water damage was really starting to affect the building both aesthetically and physically - so it was important we targeted it properly. Cleaning the areas first really revealed the extent of the damage. It was so valuable to us to be able to use SmartShield+ as a coating - and then carry on working on other areas while it dried and sealed the exterior of the building.” Steve Plowman, Technical Support Manager at Dulux Trade said: “We’re glad we have been able to see this project through with Armour Hart and had such great feedback from them on how the product is working. SmartShield+ is a great product that really stands the test of time.” For more information, visit: www.duluxtradepaintexpert.co.uk/content/dulux-trade-plus-smartshield

The new YMCA Community and Activity Village in Newark, Nottinghamshire is the first project of its kind to be constructed in the UK. The innovative community and activity centre provides a mix of facilities from sports and hospitality to training and childcare, with the building ranging in height from two to three storeys and comprising some 59,000 square feet of usable space.The core services available have been separated into three distinct zones – hospitality, education, and activity. The first area includes a café and function room, with the educational facilities available including classrooms and teaching areas for both adults and children. The activity zone features a gym and multi-purpose activity space as well as the Climbing Hall. This includes a 15m Olympic standard climbing wall that rises to the full height of the three-storey building and is the largest of its kind in the UK.The building also features a range of aluminium fenestration solutions supplied by Senior.Close collaboration and early engagement within the supply chain was key to the successful delivery of this multi-purpose building. The project saw Senior’s architectural advisor Michael Reynolds work alongside Rayner Davies Architects and main contractor R G Carter Construction to design and provide suitable aluminium doors, windows and curtain wall solutions which were fabricated and installed by Acorn Aluminium.The striking main entrance of the building has been created using Senior’s SF52 aluminium curtain wall system which incorporates SPW501 thermally broken doors complete with automatic swing operators. A key feature of the north elevation entrance is the extra-large PURe® commercial door measuring 2920mm x 3045mm. Across the remaining elevations, Senior’s curtain wall system has been further complemented by the incorporation of SPW600e aluminium windows, specified as both insert vents and fixed light windows. Senior’s versatile SPW501 commercial doors have also been used throughout and on the west elevation, Senior’s patented PURe® SLIDE aluminium doors provide additional access.

Project OverviewMount Earl Gardens is a new residential development in Streatham, South London, built on a site formerly occupied by old garages. Modular construction has been used to create a building of one, two and three storeys, creating as little impact as possible on the views from existing houses. Walkways have been designed within the block, with 'modernist' screening which allows light and fresh air into these areas whilst still keeping them safe and secure for residents. The aluminium screening runs along the length of the buildings and is also utilised in sections, including garden division screens, throughout the entire block of thirty-two apartments. To achieve the design vision, the building needed an homogeneous appearance to blend with the external red brick facade.Off-site build and finishThe client selected the perfect shade from our Landscape™ Terrain range of powder coatings - 'Original Terracotta'. All of our architectural powder coating have excellent durability, requiring minimal maintenance. Powder coating as a process brings further benefits, particularly to a modular build. The apartments were entirely built in a factory, leading to a faster installation time, less time spent on site and a 90% reduction in on-site waste. Powder coating is also a factory controlled process, thereby reducing time spent, and waste generated on site, and not dependent on weather conditions as is the case with air drying wet paint.Powdertech Corby coated nearly 3000 linear metres of aluminium which was fabricated into screens off-site and delivered to site just in time for installation.BenefitsPowder coating is an offsite process. It is factory controlled leading to improved consistency, less wastage and reduced environmental impact.The powders have excellent weather resistance and colour stability.Powdertech's rigorous pre-treatment system will help to keep the facade elements free from corrosion for up to 40-years.Powdertech plant and the operational team have the capacity to process large quantities of material within a short time frame, with no compromise on quality.

Built in 1797, Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings based just outside the town centre, was the world's first iron-framed building. It has won the RIBA Regional West Midlands Building of the Year Award 2024.For almost 100 years, the site operated as a state-of-the art steam powered flax mill, before being converted into maltings and during the Second World War used as temporary military barracks. It closed in 1987 but was bought by Historic England in 2005.KEIM Mineral Paints were approached by the architects, Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, in 2017 to help bring this project back to life as a workspace, social enterprise hub and leisure destination. Bryan Roe, Senior Sales Executive of KEIM Mineral Paints visited site and upon inspection found up to 15 layers of paint delaminating from the brickwork. The application of impermeable coatings had contributed to delamination and required removal prior to redecoration. Surface breathability cannot be restored unless impermeable coatings are removed. KEIM Mineral Paints chemically bond to mineral substrates, providing surface protection and UV stable pigment.The Thermatech superheated water cleaning system was used to remove the existing coatings and ensure full breathability and adhesion of KEIM Paints.On the brick barrel vaults, the previous coatings were mechanically abraded as the Thermatech system would have been too harsh for the substrate.KEIM GW Primer was applied as a base coat, followed by a two-coat application of KEIM Ecosil-ME White which is a highly specialised silicate-based interior paint. It has a photocatalytic effect, reducing harmful gases and neutralising odours, specially formulated for heavily used interior spaces such as public buildings, schools and hospitals.For the lettering on the exterior of the building, KEIM Royalan in a black shade was used and KEIM Soldalit-ME White was applied as a block stripe across the façade.This is a lovely example of how an historic building that has been in decline for decades can be sustainably reused through innovation, revolution and gentle touch to repair of the fabric. The project is an essence of striving towards a circular economy by using traditional craft, materials and skills throughout the project.

Brand new development with unique balconiesRoyal Arsenal Riverside is one of South East London’s most exciting riverside addresses. Occupying the prime location along the River Thames and offering a buzzing retail hub, Royal Arsenal Riverside is rapidly emerging as one of London’s bright spots. With the on-site Elizabeth Line station, an on-site Thames Clipper Pier, plus both the National Rail and DLR stations only 300m away, Royal Arsenal Riverside is one of the best-connected developments in South East London."We chose MyDek for it’s lightweight structure and it’s finish; it seamlessly blended in with old and the new building. It’s a good quality product and neat finish. I would recommend MyDek to others. It’s been a good service and good product." - Project Manager, Berkeley Homes