"fabric membrane buildings inflatable structures"

Tolson’s Mill is a grade 2 listed former mill close to Tamworth. This iconic and unique development consists of 51 new canal side apartments and 10 town houses all offering a bright and stylish finish. These apartments offer a unique waterfront lifestyle, blending tranquillity with a vibrant local community. Set right beside the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal the Mill is divided into floors of 10 apartments. The annex will be divided into a range of 2 to 4 bedroom townhouses making full use of the annex and its dual aspect, which overlooks the canal.Cellecta’s HiDECK Structural was specified by Crosby Granger Architects due to it being a conductive structural floorboard and having outstanding acoustic and fire performance and low thermal resistance.Brookland Group was awarded this 8,940m² contract to construct this refurbishment located in the district of Lichfield.

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

In its largest building project in over 100 years, the Victoria and Albert Museum’s Exhibition Road Quarter achieves architectural cohesion between museum and street with the help of Alumasc Water Management Solutions (AWMS) and Alumasc Roofing Systems. In a project that demonstrates expertise across the full building envelope, Alumasc Wade HCE drainage channels and access covers were installed to provide almost invisible yet functional water management, and a bespoke hybrid roofing system installed using Hydrotech and Derbigum waterproof roofing.Designed by Stirling Prize-winning Architect Amanda Levete and her practice AL_A, the landmark project aimed to “break down the barrier” between the great cultural artery of Exhibition Road and home of over 5000 years’ worth of cultural history.The entire project encompassed the construction of the Salisbury Gallery, a flexible 1100m2 temporary exhibition space, the Blavatnik Hall, a new entrance into the V&A from Exhibition Road, the Aston Webb Screen, a newly created colonnade formed from the original 1909 structure, and the Sackler Courtyard, a key area that strives for unity between the street, the museum, the historical and the modern.

Ashton Old Baths is a Grade II listed building which Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council has transformed into a business hub and data centre; an idea for heritage sites which could be transferred to many other ‘at risk’ buildings.The primary concern for the project was to create a sympathetic dialogue between the historic and the modern.Lang+Fulton were approached by the architect to provide an appropriate solution for a compound to surround and screen the unsightly sub-station, data centre generators, and cooling plant that were required to service the new complex. Their Corten louvre, made from weathering steel was selected to match the tonal qualities of the original red brick façade of the Victorian bath house and preserve the sensitive context of the site. The Italia-Corten panels sit between an expressed steel framework, which was hot-dip galvanized before polyester powder coating in a dark grey to reference the regeneration of the site to the area’s industrial past. The continuous structure creates 80% visual screening and the robust steel louvres provide excellent security.The compound was supplied with double-leaf and tri-fold gates to provide the required access.

application area: commercial heatinguse type: industrial condensing boilersproject scope: preserve rectangular flue shape and maintain lined diameteradded value: quick and efficient installation with minimal downtime and disruption to the building structureBackgroundTwo new high efficiency condensing boilers fitted into the basement of a nine-story office block (Dublin Civic Offices, Ireland) using two separate brick lined chimneys that rose through the nine floors and exited on the rooftop.The brick chimneys posed a problem as the chambers measered 300mm x 450mm no standard 350mm flue liner would fit. Due to the pliability of Furnflex, the liner was able to take up an oval shape in the chamber giving it the full 350mm required. This building is an extremely busy high-profile office block therefore minimum disruption to day to day business was required.Statement of workFollowing an onsite survey, Furanflex was deemed the ideal solution to line both chimneys. The installations were carried out over two weekends, one for each chimney, with no disruption to the office operations. The project completed on time and within budget.

The new psychiatric center in Skejby, Denmark is a construction project for 1.3 billion DKK. The center is part of the New University Hospital in Aarhus and includes an adult and a child psychiatric ward with ambulatories and rooms totaling approx. 40,000 m² and an autonomous forensic psychiatry of approx. 10,000 m². The center is approx. 50,000 m² and replaced in November 2019, the over 150-year-old psychiatric hospital in Risskov, Denmark.The project builds on the urban structure organized in a city's image, with the city's hierarchy of neighborhoods, streets and squares. One of the overall goals for the new psychiatric center was to integrate as a natural part of the existing hospital and surrounding countryside.Hudevad has been part of the planning process together with Arkitema Architects, where the focus has been on integratable heating solutions, which naturally fit into the design of the building. Among other radiators, Hudevad has supplied Integral Bench, a combined radiator and bench, which is installed in the individual rooms. Placed under the low windows, Integral Bench takes centre stage and allows residents to enjoy the changing weather and the countryside outside from the comfort of the room.

Set on the former site of a pub and a fish and chip shop, the stunning new Clifftown Shore residential development has breathed new life into the Western Esplanade in Southend-on-Sea in Essex. The development boasts a stunning location close to both the seafront and the nearby Conservation Area, which encompasses some of the coastal city’s most celebrated local architecture including the 1912 built Cliff Lift funicular railway. In addition to the 51 luxury one, two and three bedroomed apartments, the development also features a ground floor restaurant and cocktail bar and a host of aluminium fenestration systems.Taking inspiration from the Art Deco style of the neighbouring buildings and the beauty of the natural landscape, the undulating ‘waves’ of the white concrete framed building have been further accentuated by the curved installation and slim sightlines of Senior’s thermally-efficient SF52 aluminium curtain wall system.The stunning views from the individual apartments have been framed using Senior’s patented PURe® tilt and turn aluminium windows, with PURe® SLIDE aluminium doors providing access to the outdoor terraces. The thermal efficiency achieved by Senior’s PURe® aluminium system has been further enhanced with the use of energy-efficient triple glazing.The main entrance to the development features Senior’s aluminium PURe® Commercial Doors to provide safe and secure access. As well as contributing to a more energy-efficient building envelope, with all of Senior’s aluminium windows and doors comfortably meeting the new lower U-value targets of Part L of the Building Regulations, the use of the PURe® system also offers improved acoustic performance.Owing to the coastal location of the development, Senior’s aluminium fenestration systems were powder-coated in marine grade Matt Black to offer additional protection from the elements and provide an attractive contrast with the white building design. The installation of aluminium brise soleil, also powder-coated to match the aluminium windows, is both an attractive and practical feature, and will provide solar shading and protection against solar gain.Designed by LAP Architects and built by Cura Construction, all of Senior’s aluminium fenestration solutions were fabricated and installed by supply chain partner Glass & General.

Triton approved contractors, Advance Property Preservation, installed a Type C (BS 8102 2009) structural waterproofing system in the construction of a luxury domestic basement. The property is a late Victorian, six-bedroomed detached home in Notting Hill, London.

The Danish Church in London has been in existence, since 1696. Since 1952, it has occupied St Katherine’s, a neo gothic Church sited in the calm and secluded setting of London’s Regent’s Park, forming part of the Crown Estate.A recent refurbishment of the Church has been undertaken, overseen by Architects CF Møller and carried out by, main contractor, Coniston. The work included three new kitchens, communal spaces, and vicarage. GEC Anderson were employed to supply and install the three kitchens occupying two levels of the historic building. Liaising closely with the Architect, GEC Anderson were able to produce and install the required kitchen surfaces and fabrications as well as the required package of commercial kitchen appliances. Managing director of GEC Anderson, Martin Tye, commented “Space was very much a limiting factor in all three of the areas that we were involved with and so, it was a real challenge to be able to accommodate and include all of the necessary elements. Following the careful guidance of the design team, we were able to translate the requirements set out on paper into a tangible result for the client. This also involved meeting with the end user team and understanding the order of priorities.” Certain areas included high ceilings and so some tailored storage options were provided to maximise the useable space. Shelving and cabinets were included to provide the appropriate storage.

Veolia is the UK leader in environmental solutions, it provides a comprehensive range of waste, water and energy management services.Project/doors:Nationwide replacement of 60+ doorsThe challengeDue to difficult conditions on site including dust, dirt and moisture, the current doors were unreliable and unfit for purpose. As the doors were not manufactured in the UK, replacement parts were expensive and not readily available. Having doors out of action for long periods of time affected compliance with local authority regulations.The solutionThe Speedor Storm is an extremely robust door with wind class 5 up to 8m due to its unique guide system. The multi-layer PVC fabric is thicker and less prone tears and splits. Moisture-controlled electrics protect from varying temperatures within a building, and mechanical components are protected from dust and dirt. Its high-speed action control the escaping dirt, odours and noise. The successHart Doors is the oldest British manufacturer of highspeed doors and understands that one size does not fit all. Veolia was given peace of mind with parts available in stock and a 2 year warranty as standard. Reliable doors meant less repairs, less down time and less cost and Veolia had the confidence that Hart would deliver a quality product and serviceThe Review:"Excellent Service. Great workmanship, worked well." Wayne Glynne, RDF Manager, Veolia

FlexEJ partners with its sister-company Safetech to design and fabricate specialist large diameter rubber expansion joints.Typically, particularly in the Gulf States, these are used in water treatment, distribution and desalination plants – and it’s these processes that took contingents from our sales and management teams to the UAE recently to see our product installed and operating.Desalination and water distribution in the UAE and surrounding countries are vital, integral components helping to supporting these oil-rich economies, thriving as they do in a desert region.The teams flew into Dubai to meet with our local representatives Parvez Mohiuddin and Mansoor Pullat and find out a little more about how the potable water supply operates in this thirsty city. Plants all over this region are in a continual process of refurbishment; the team were able to see how rubber expansion joints of various sizes had been replaced with high quality Safetech joints during a recent plant upgrade.We have an ongoing and growing commitment to the Gulf region and various projects underway there. Building relationships and developing understanding in the field are very much how we like to do business in both Safetech and FlexEJ so this was an ideal opportunity to share information and make plans.If you are interested in finding out more about FlexEJ’s large and custom-engineered rubber expansion joints, please contact our Technical Sales Team on +44 (0) 1384 881188 or send an email to sales@flexej.co.uk.

With a proven track record of successful work in the education sector, Senior Architectural Systems was more than qualified to deliver the fenestration package for this new secondary school in Brighton.The new Chailey School in South Lewes has been designed by leading architects Jestico + Whiles and features a full range of aluminium fenestration solutions including Senior’s thermally-efficient, slimline SF52 aluminium curtain wall system and robust SPW501 aluminium commercial doors. The new school has also reunited Senior with main contractor Bowmer & Kirkland, with whom Senior has an established supplier framework agreement. The two companies have collaborated together on numerous projects, with Bowmer & Kirkland being the first contractor to specify Senior’s patented low U-value PURe® aluminium window system when it was launched back in 2015. The main contractor has gone on to work with Senior and specify its aluminium windows, doors and curtain wall systems on many other education projects across the UK.Chailey School is itself part of Department of Education construction framework agreement to modernise educational facilities and improve the environmental efficiency of this sector. Senior worked closely with specialist contactor RKN Aluminium to design, fabricate and install the fenestration package for the new school building which comprises some 85 windows, 14 section of curtain wall and 12 door sets!

Client: University of Brighton Consultant: Stripe Main Contractor: Keir Construction Specialist Contractor Thelwell Flooring Main Products Used: Emseal DSM SystemThis new multi-storey car park for the University of Brighton is part of a major redevelopment of the former Preston Barracks site in the City. There are 550 parking spaces on 7 floors, including 55 EV charging bays, plus there is a PV array on the roof with the power stored in batteries on the ground floor, which also includes 330 cycle parking spaces. The car park design uses a Vertical Circulation Module (VCM) that provides a more efficient solution for confined sites, as this contains no external ramps and traffic circulation is via slopes within the floors themselves. This creates more parking spaces in the steel framed structure in the centre, with two lift and stair cores positioned at each end. This design also made it possible to locate the necessary structural expansion joints transversely between these 3 parts of the structure and away from major traffic impact areas. The engineers specified these joints to be a nominal 40mm wide to accommodate a high movement capability of up to +/- 50% (i.e. total 100%), as they knew these could be quickly, securely, and durably sealed using the Emseal DSM System. This also saves time on site as it is installed from above, allowing other trades to continue working below, plus as it is bonded into position, there is no potentially damaging drilling for mechanical fixings.

As part of a multi-million-pound development aimed at enhancing the overall shopping experience, Maple undertook the creation of a decorative architectural panel facade. This transformative project was executed in collaboration with Glasgow Fort Shopping Centre, focusing on the redevelopment of their new 601-space multi-storey car park.The primary objective was to augment parking capacity at Glasgow Fort Shopping Centre by 25%, emphasizing the dual purpose of functionality and aesthetic appeal. The design aimed to make a distinct architectural statement, contrasting with the steelwork of adjacent structures while ensuring stability and a visually striking appearance. Given Maple's established reputation for pioneering innovative architectural façades, the collaboration was a natural fit for this ambitious undertaking.Teaming up with contractor McLaughlin & Harvey and architect Cooper Cromar, Maple played a crucial role in bringing this impressive five-floor development to fruition.The centerpiece of the project was a 'living art' façade for the new car park, featuring a curved timber-clad steel enclosure inspired by nature. Enhanced by captivating landscaping and boardwalk frontage, the design sought to harmonize with the environment.The construction of this intricate feature façade involved the use of sustainable materials, including 700m2 of Corten steel cladding, 1,100m2 of vertical timber fins, and 1,200m2 of curved timber fins spanning 75m.Through the thoughtful combination of these materials, Maple successfully contributed to the creation of a visually stunning car park exterior that met both the aesthetic and structural requirements of the project.The Glasgow Fort Shopping Centre car park development served as a testament to Maple's proficiency in designing, manufacturing, and installing architectural facades for landmark buildings, employing sustainable construction materials and showcasing their commitment to excellence.

The Lotse Canal separates Harburg’s Schlossinsel (“castle island”) from Hamburg city centre. To improve accessibility in both directions, the city authorities decided to build a new swing bridge for pedestrians and cyclists across the 44-metre-wide canal.TaskProtect the structure and the budget. Hamburg wanted an innovative and cost-effective coating technology for the Lotse Canal swing bridge.ChallengeProvide a proven coating solution. As a matter of principle, public authorities will only consider the introduction of innovative materials if their successful performance has already been proven beyond any doubt and they additionally deliver savings for the public handbag.SolutionPolyaspartic technology protects the bridge and saves money. With years of experience of using this application in other fields of engineering, it was clear that Polyaspartic technology would protect the structure just as thoroughly against corrosion damage as previous coating systems – and, thanks to needing one layer less, would deliver savings at the same time. As a result, the swing bridge across the Lotse Canal became the first application of Polyaspartic technology in a public infrastructure project in Germany. The unique Polyaspartic technology benefits were confirmed by The Sherwin-Willliams Company, as provider of the coatings for the bridge: “Polyaspartic technology enabled a curing process that was four times faster than normal, resulting in a significant productivity boost.”Why Polyaspartic technology was the right solution for this project:Ultra-durable: Thorough protection against corrosion.Economical: The need for one layer less cuts cost.Proven technology: Years of successful application in other fields.Fast-curing: Cures four times faster than conventional solutions.Ease of application: Good handling without the need for additional equipment or training measures.

LDA Design specified WoodBlocX Landscaping to provide the raised planters and seating for the courtyard areas of its Westpoint Homes project; One Hyndland Avenue, a development comprising of 63 luxury apartments with beautifully landscaped outdoor spaces in Glasgow’s West End.The design LDA created for the development featured a series of open paved spaces, ample seating and pergolas to add height, with large angular raised planters with integrated seating bordering the perimeters of the site to plant trees, shrubs and plants.Following a consultation with LDA on potential solutions, the WoodBlocX design team took the initial plans and recreated the original footprint using CAD designs of the modular timber blocks. Thanks to the versatility of the system WoodBlocX were able to match the design almost identically, incorporating the shapes and angles of the original outline.WoodBlocX supplied all materials directly to the Westpoint Homes’ site and the structures were assembled by their own teams. The space for materials on site was tight and the size of the planters meant that a large quantity of materials were delivered. WoodBlocX components arrive on site neatly palletised and the individual lightweight pieces are easy to access and manoeuvre when needed.All WoodBlocX structures are built in the same way using a series of light weight blocks which have been pre-drilled and then treated to provide superior strength - there is no waste or cutting needed.With all projects challenges can arise during the build, in this case some onsite changes were required due to manholes and water access getting in the way of original design. Our team swiftly redesigned instructions and supplied suitable components to match the change.

National College for High Speed Rail opened its doors to students in September 2018 following the installation of Jewers' Swift-SEW high speed, automatic bi-folding doors which completed the external structure of the workshops at both Birmingham and Doncaster.

Precast concrete Groundwall L-Shaped retaining wall panels, designed and manufactured by Whites Concrete (part of the Naylor Group) with a special rock face finish to blend in with existing surroundings have replaced an integral part of a cemetery wall structure in Wigan.

The cast iron flyscreen air brick has the advantage of protecting the property from insect and rodent ingress but can help stop flooding with this innovative and simple barrier. The flood screen is a cork gasket for our single and double flyscreen air bricks and is simply inserted in the air brick when flooding is likely or imminent in place of the fly mesh. Once the danger has passed the copper fly mesh is replaced and the cork flood screen stored away safely until require again. It is available with our 9x3 and 9x6 cast iron air bricks here

The 2014 Commonwealth Games’ swimming competition was played out at Tollcross International Swimming Centre. In anticipation of the games, the centre’s facilities underwent a complete refurbishment. Some of the screed below the tiles on the main competition pool floor had separated from the concrete pool tank. The entire floor needed to be re-laid. Glasgow City Council Scott hired, Tilecraft, a specialist tiling works company that delivers high quality tiles, to lay the tiles and specified products from ARDEX UK. A fast track solution which would produce high quality results was needed, and ARDEX UK seemed the logical choice.

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.

The XR Lab in the STEM Hangar at West Suffolk College is the most advanced augmented reality centre in the UK, predicted to lead the future of digital education.Windsor Patania Architects has created within an existing hangar a 700m2 structure that inspires and challenges from the moment students see it. Central to that impact has been the use of Arnourcoat’s SMG high gloss polished plaster on all exterior facades- including a dramatic three-dimensional geometric feature wall.The £2m design & build project, intended to re-shape vocational training in digital sciences as part of the College’s science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) specialist campus, was completed in just seven months. This was despite featuring numerous bespoke elements, and complex components- of which the feature wall was a significant part, with its combination of planes and angles.Architect Giovanni Patania originally intended the wall to be finished with metal- stainless steel, aluminium or zinc but it proved impossible to create to the standard required within the budget. Armourcoat’s superior luxurious SMG polished plaster delivered a practical, viable alternative, that met all Regulatory requirements for indoor air quality, zero VOC, low embodied carbon, fire resistance an thermal movement.SMG, with its rich, high gloss “lacquer” effect, could be accurately applied to create a seamless finish across the diverse facets of the entire XR Lab structure, building up the layers over the timber and plasterboard framework. In Armourcoat’s own dark grey colour palette, it reflects light to create a dark, reflective finish reminiscent of 2011: A Space Odyssey’s Monolith.The brief was to achieve something that was unprecedented and unique, that inspired future generations but made students feel it was a piece of alien architecture. I don’t think anyone expected the end result to be so impressive.“Armourcoat was superb in its level of support, from samples to being on site to give technical guidance on the plaster’s application. SMG is instrumental in achieving an opulent, reflective, futuristic exterior that inspires students to interact with and participate in the XR Lab experience."Giovanni Patania, Windsor Patania Architects

Trent is a village and civil parish in northwest Dorset, in the beautiful Yeo Valley. The Trent Conservation Area was designated in February 1970. Many of its structures are listed due to their historical and architectural significance, including Medieval and Tudor buildings.  From 1835 to 1875, Reverend Turner and his wife occupied the village rectory. Together, they built a great number of the buildings that are still in the village today, including the Alms Houses. In 1862, the Turners constructed the National School which was to be for girls and infants. Throughout the years, the National School has seen many changes, including the introduction of boys and the expansion of the buildings. Unsurprisingly, the original metal windows at the school were not fit for purpose and the time came to replace them. This required sensitivity, as it was imperative the new windows looked similar to the originals. The Clement Brooking range was specified because the slim, strong frames could replicate the wonderful shaped heads of the existing windows and they could be fixed directly to stone. The 16mm krypton filled units offer the much-improved thermal performance required and, like all Clement windows, the frames could be fitted with restrictors, essential for safety.Ros Baker, the Deputy Headteacher said: “We are so pleased with the finished result! The transformation the windows have made to our school and local area is fantastic. Many local residents have also commented positively on the ‘new look’ windows. They have been sympathetically upgraded, in keeping with the original school building, and have had a positive impact on our school environment. Furthermore, there was no impact on the staff or the children during the refurbishment.”

Hush Acoustics provided an acoustic solution for the Aviation Academy in Norwich as part of its project to transform the building through the creation of an innovative learning environment. Based within a World War 2 aircraft hangar, home to a museum, cafe and now classrooms, catering for pupils and youth organisations as well as holding events and conferences, this academy accommodates a wide variety of uses and needs. Hanson Barron and Smith Architects worked on the design of the custom facility, with the aim to create a mezzanine floor within the atrium on which classrooms would be created.The atrium itself holds conferences that can accommodate over 300 people, so in order to ensure the acoustics within the building were fit for purpose, a site visit was conducted to assess how the required acoustic standards could be achieved.On visiting the site, an acoustic concern within the building was the footfall noise being created from the mezzanine floor.The solution proposed after calculating the requirements of the areas was 1500m2 of Hush Panel 17, which would be fitted over the structural plywood deck.Hush Panel 17 is a thin overlay board which minimises floor build-up without compromising performance. By reducing impact sound transmission through the separating floors, it achieves excellent results, with the upper layer of moisture resistant MDF providing a consistently smooth surface for application of floor finishes.Working with Robert Goss from Hanson Barron and Smith and RG Carter who were the main contractors on site, over 2000 sheets of Hush Panel 17 were supplied and fitted to the area.

Architectural glazing systems by Kawneer were specified as a “key aspect” of the new regional head office of British Sugar’s parent company, the FTSE 25 Associated British Foods (ABF), for their pedigree and quality.CPMG Architects selected products from all of Kawneer’s portfolio for the building on a 4.5-acre site at Cygnet Business Park, Hampton, Peterborough, which would enable the relocation of almost 400 people from ABF businesses locally (AB Sugar, British Sugar, AB Mauri, ABF Ingredients and ABF) with the addition of purpose-built conference and training facilities and a showcase central reception area. Kawneer’s aluminium AA®100 SSG (Structurally Silicone Glazed) curtain walling features on the ground floor reception, meeting/conference spaces and south-facing restaurant/café while AA®100 mullion-drained curtain walling has been used on the first and second floor open-plan offices of the three-storey building.In addition, the 5,755m2 (GIA) building features ultra-thermally efficient AA®720 doors, large (3m high by 9m wide) AA®3572 sliding doors and over-sized (2.4m by 0.7m) AA®720 parallel opening windows, all installed by approved specialist sub-contractor Norman & Underwood.

Kings Crescent Estate, in Stoke Newington, North London is undergoing an ambitious five-year redevelopment project as part of the London Borough of Hackney's wider Estate Regeneration programme. Three new buildings between five and twelve storeys high are under construction, with a number of the existing estate buildings, dating from the 1960s and 1970s, being retained and refurbished to provide continuity and transition. The plan is to recreate a neighbourhood of high quality housing and pleasant tree-lined streets that sits comfortably with the surrounding Victorian townscape of terraced and semi-detached housing close to Clissold Park. There are solar panels, green and brown roofing, plus a combined heat and power plant. These are expected to achieve savings of 25 percent of the carbon dioxide emissions that would otherwise have been generated by the development.The residential element of the scheme will result in up to 765 new homes, intended to offer at least a one-for-one replacement for the present amount of housing on the site. Half the homes will be affordable, with the remainder aimed at the private market. It is claimed to be the only scheme in London to combine new build construction of council homes with the refurbishment of existing council stock.As you would expect there are a significant number of balconies throughout the development and this means the risk of thermal bridging at the many cantilever balcony connections. To counter any such risk, the design incorporates two types of structural break units from the extensive Schöck Isokorb® range.

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

A 9-storey, 18,000m2, mixed use development at 150 Holborn in the centre of London. It incorporates retail on the ground floor, offices above and 13 apartments in an adjacent block. Architect Perkins & Will specified URSA’s Walltec 32B slab in critical areas of the new build structure.URSA has supplied 1000m2 of URSA Walltec 32B slab as part of the multi million pound development in London. The mixed use scheme replaces a 1980s office block and feature a café, exhibition and reception space, atrium and roof pavilion with rooftop gardens. The overall building height was limited in order to maintain views of the nearby St Paul’s Cathedral.  The new building aims to offer a healthy work place with natural daylight being a key design feature. As a result the design also incorporates measures to minimise solar gains. Additionally the scheme aims to achieve a LEED ‘Platinum’ rating, BREEAM rating of ‘Excellent’ and Fitwel certification. URSA products assisting here with BS EN ISO 9001 and BS EN ISO 14001 certification along with a BRE Green Guide rating of ‘A+’.Ian Claydon, Technical Manager at URSA commented: “We worked closely with Perkins & Will in developing the specification for those areas of the external walls incorporating URSA Walltec 32B. Including options for the type of insulation to be used and U-value calculations. A particularly critical requirement was for the insulation to be non-combustible, Euroclass A1”.

A high profile residential development located on the derelict site of the once mighty Wimbledon FC, completed in 2008.OverviewAxter designed and supplied a complete structural waterproofing, insulation, drainage and landscaping solution to all elevated podia. The areas were intensively landscaped combining hard and soft finishes, creating a mixture of meandering pedestrian walkways and landscaped recreational gardens with a combined area of 6000m2.ChallengesThe primary challenge was to achieve a robust structural waterproofing system that could provide construction programme design, installation and cost efficiencies.A complex site drainage strategy, combined with multiple hard and soft landscaped finishes of varying depths, resulted in the need for additional drainage and water retention measures to be designed and implemented throughout the site.A high cost and varied landscaping design, with a relatively short seasonal installation time frame, demanded a waterproofing system designer and manufacturing partner that could meet these challenges.SolutionsThe design supply and installation of Wilotekt-Plus, unique second generation hot melt structural waterproofing system, provided 30% quicker on site installation speeds than traditional first generation hot melt systems. This ensured the waterproofing was completed swiftly, in excess of 500m2/day, which enabled landscaping finishes to be installed within deadline.The drainage strategy was simplified across all podia through the creation of a horizontal drainage zone above the waterproofing. Axter’s combined reservoir and drainage board was installed, retaining appropriate moisture levels for the specified plant requirements, whilst allowing excess moisture to drain freely away. It also acted as a permanent shutter for concrete works that allowed secondary structures to be built off these areas without contacting the waterproofing system or interrupting the drainage zone.Intensive hard and soft landscaping was completed by Frosts Landscapes Ltd using conveyor technology to distribute the soil and plants across the podia with ease.Systems in useWilotekt®-Plus

Taking sustainability to a new level, 8 Bishopsgate is tallest building in the UK to achieve a BREEAM Outstanding and EPC A rating. Contributing to the low carbon footprint, Style, who offer moveable partitioning wall systems that are certified with an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) in accordance with ISO 14025 and EN15804, was contracted to work with architect, WilkinsonEyre and contractor, Brown and Carroll, to create flexible space on three levels.Utilising a combination of Dorma Huppe Variflex semi-automatic, solid and glazed moveable wall systems, Style created adaptable meeting and breakout areas to accommodate different sized groups and events whilst maximising the use of natural light.8 Bishopsgate is a landmark, 50-storey tower offering premium office space in central London. With sustainability a key element, the building boasts an array of architectural optimisations ranging from the recycling of heat from the cooling systems to the installation of the highest solar panels in London. Positioning the company and its products at the forefront of sustainability, Style not only holds the EPD, but is also accredited under the ISO 14001:2004 Environmental Management System, ensuring operational processes maximise sustainability goals whilst limiting wasted resources.In addition to Style’s green credentials, the moveable walls installed at 8 Bishopsgate boast a 52db acoustic rating on the glazed walls, and a 59db rating on the solid walls, ensuring complete privacy between divided areas.Not forgetting aesthetics, on level 2 the solid walls are finished in a perforated timber veneer, and on level 50 a kvadrat steel cut trio fabric was applied, perfectly harmonising with the interior décor.On the concourse, Style installed a glazed sliding folding wall system allowing a private area to be created without compromising natural light.A combination of semi-automatic Dorma Huppe Variflex solid and glazed walls create adaptable meeting and breakout areas on the second floor. At the top of the building, a further semi-automatic Variflex moveable wall adds flexibility to an expansive conference facility with breathtaking views over London.

3900m2 Optima TFC in PPC Aluminium and 1800sqm Optima FC in Axalta PPC Aluminium have been used in the completion of the 400+ room in Salfords student accommodation project. The Optima TFC system was proposed to create a ‘basket weave’ pattern to the façade including a mixture of both landscape and portrait lay orientation, visible in the project photos.The Optima FC included multi-depth panels to create a 3D effect along with secret fix assembled triangle segments to further emphasize the projection.When you stand back from the building, you can see the two separate towers seem to connect ‘through’ each other.The expert team at Sotech worked closely with Britplas Facades and their team of specialists to design the unique façade, ensuring it was both viable and achievable to the installation programme. As a team, we developed a method to secret fix the triangular sections onto standard panels at our fabrication facility, to reduce the quantity of parts the installer would have to handle.No additional testing was required for the project as Optima TFC and Optima FC have been extensively tested and are approved by CWCT and have been tested to BS8414-2 (compliant to BR135).Jamie Brown, Estimating Manager at Sotech said: “This is a truly unique, vibrant and striking building. It was a real pleasure to have been involved in this scheme from concept to completion working closely with our supply chain partner, Britplas Facades, to develop a solution that ticked all the boxes – cost, programme and exceptional quality.”Discovery Quays includes 404 student bedrooms over 10,325 sqft in two blocks. The finished building also provides a coffee shop, library, lounge, media wall, gaming area and a stunning double-story reception.To find out more about how the expert team at Sotech can assist in your next rainscreen cladding project, click here.

Reckitt’s unrivalled range provides health, hygiene and nutrition for people in 200 countries around the world, and at its offices in Slough, Berkshire Style worked with architects, Tetris Design & Build and contractor, BW Interiors, to create flexible space throughout the building.What made this installation particularly notable for Style was that it was the company’s 300th installation of a Skyfold – the market leading, fully automatic, vertically rising, acoustic moveable wall.Installing Skyfolds in both the main boardroom/meeting room and also in the lounge and shop/display area, the moveable walls offer incredible 59dB acoustic ratings and are housed, out of sight, in a ceiling cavity when not in use.“When we introduced Skyfold into the UK market 15 years ago, it was a completely new, ground-breaking moveable wall solution,” said Julian Sargent, Style’s group managing director.“At the push of a button it descends gracefully from a ceiling cavity, and once in place it offers superb room separation with top end acoustic integrity.“Initially it took time to raise the profile of Skyfold with architects, contractors and potential end-user clients, however once the benefits of this operable wall became recognised the numbers of specifications grew rapidly, as it is a truly outstanding form of room separation.”At Reckitt, the Skyfolds enable staff to very quickly divide the rooms, and when not in use they take up no floor space whatsoever and are completely out of sight.Finished in a stylish Kvadrat Steelcut Trio fabric, they also complement the interior design of the building creating a real showcase for anyone visiting the offices.In addition to the Skyfolds, Style was also specified to install a Dorma Huppe Variflex semi-automatic moveable wall in a ground floor studio, also with a 59dB acoustic rating and in an Egger laminate finish.Style is the UK market leader in moveable, partitioning and folding walls and the exclusive UK partner to Skyfold, Dorma Huppe and SWG.

In a stunning architectural statement, CUPA PIZARRAS R17 slate has been specified to meet the design challenges of a former Georgian windmill renovation at Fort Green, near Aldeburgh in Suffolk. The first project of its kind in the UK, the natural slate was individually cut and fixed through expert craftsmanship to accommodate the building’s exterior curve while also providing crucial protection from the harsh coastal environment. Originally, the windmill walls were going to be clad in cedar shingles however, contractor ELC Roofing recommended using the rectangular CUPA R17 slate from CUPA PIZARRAS as a more weather-resistant alternative. ELC Roofing Owner, Edward Carlo, explains: “The R17 is a natural, non-carbonated blue-black slate with non-rusting metallic particles and thin laminations. From our perspective, it’s a tried and tested product that we specify and install on a lot of our projects – especially in coastal situations like this.” The slates, which protect against the salt water and wind, have been fitted on both the windmill’s curved wall, its pitched roof and elsewhere adding design details to the property’s walls. He goes on to say: “Aesthetically, the ocean environment has inspired the material choice with the slate mirroring the scales of a fish. This gives the windmill a dramatic architectural style; one that also sympathetically ties into the slate roof of the neighbouring cottage, which we replaced with CUPA R17 the previous year. “As far as I am aware, nothing like this windmill has been done in the UK. It was a case of starting from scratch to devise the optimum installation method, which involved a lot of detailed calculations.” For the tower, which has a 15m circumference at the base tapering to 11m at the top, the team initially removed the thick render on the windmill wall, taking it back to the original brickwork. Next, to meet the challenge of the curve and tapering of the wall, 50mm counter battens were fitted to the tower’s brickwork. Then, multiple strips of ply were cut and glued together to create the curve. These panels were screwed to the counter battens to provide an anchor for the fixing system. The ply was also primed to protect the surface from water ingress and a breathable membrane applied to protect the brickwork. In terms of fixing the slates to the panels, Edward said: “For a more corrosion and wind-resistant solution, I decided on the French technique of a stainless steel hook fixing system to install the slate, as opposed to nails.” Ensuring the layout worked exactly with the curves, the slate was lasered from top to bottom to perk it out, which took five days to do. Horizontal tiling battens were also marked to ensure the slates were fixed at the right height. Every single slate was cut and fixed individually to accommodate the curve and ensure they aligned with the building’s inset windows as well as other architectural details - a very precise process that required expert levels of craftsmanship. Preventing the slates from getting smaller at height, the team designed-in a series of lead bands that go all around the building at each storey level. These sit underneath the windows to create a consistent appearance visually. The windmill’s domed copper roof existed already and the adjoining tower, which is horizontally clad in a white weatherboard, features a slated pitched roof. ELC Roofing has again used CUPA PIZARRAS spanish slates. In this instance, the roof curves to the back end with four leaded hips to one end and two to the other with a connecting lead ridge. This time the slates were fitted to 20 x 50mm battens with a layer of permeable membrane. This part of the roof also features a striking onion-shaped finial. Expertly crafted by ELC Roofing, the finial is produced out of a patchwork of small pieces of soft copper, topped off with a fish that acts as a weather vane and includes stunning marble eyes. To the other side of the clad tower, CUPA PIZARRAS slate has been used to create a vertical square panel detail to the front of the building and fixed using the hook system again. Commenting on this challenging project, Edward said: “Work on site started before the first Covid-19 lockdown so as well as the challenging weather conditions that a coastal location like this presents, the team also had to complete the work with government guidance and restrictions in place. Regardless, the client is overwhelmed with the end result and so are we.” To find out more about the CUPA PIZARRAS range of natural slate visit: https://www.cupapizarras.com/uk/natural-slate-roofing/

This straight feature stair and glass bridge is located in a spacious office in the heart of London. The mild steel structure accentuated the urban feel of this commercial space. The laser cut risers came complete with brass nosing inserts for a contemporary appearance and completed with a wax finish.

Great Baddow High School was delighted with the dining canopy; the bespoke structure met its needs efficiently and the way it worked with the existing architecture was a great success. It has created a welcoming place for students to gather, eat, chat and have fun during their breaks.

Newton Specialist Contractor Arti Structural Waterproofing are a leading expert in all forms of residential and commercial waterproofing, with a reputation for delivering high-quality waterproofing installations. For this project, Arti had to provide a reliable and watertight solution to a Listed basement with strict conservation guidelines.