"office desk"

Capital One, a top UK credit card provider, recently relocated their London offices to the White Collar Factory, a state-of-the art development in Old Street. A showcase for modern working practices, partitioning experts Style worked with architects, HLW International LLP, and contractor, BW Workplace Experts, to create flexible room configuration in the meeting area. Allowing the space to be rapidly reconfigured, Style installed a DORMA Moveo semi-automatic glazed moveable wall, which quickly forms a central divide to create two substantial meeting rooms. A second DORMA wall sub-divides that space into two further, smaller rooms.

Rockfon is very happy to have played its part in ensuring the team at premium British lifestyle brand Joules’ new Market Harborough HQ can work in an interior environment where beauty and acoustic control create the perfect space for collaboration.Founded by Tom Joule over 30 years ago, the Group had ambitious aspirations to create a new home that would support its continued growth over the coming years.  Edge vision melds contemporary with heritageEdge Architecture + Design were appointed to lead the project and chose to specify Rockfon acoustic systems. The result is a contemporary, eye-catching 60,000 sq. ft. new HQ, which brings the brand’s UK-based office teams under one roof for the first time. Amplifying the brand’s heritage and reflecting the site’s semi-rural setting, the campus resembles a series of interconnecting barn structures that appear to have evolved over time. The complex is surrounded by landscaping including wildflower meadows and a kitchen garden which enhances the natural feel of the space. Michael Fern, Principle at Edge, said, “This new space will enable a workplace strategy of nimbleness, agile working and wellness… We also wanted to create a strong sense of place that respects the natural surroundings of the site and have designed the scheme as a human scale experience with the building and the landscape interacting in a symbiotic way. We took the local farmstead vernacular as a starting point for the visual aesthetic and used sustainable materials.”Tom Joule, Chief Brand Officer and founder of Joules, said, “This has been a hugely exciting project for our company and our future. We are delighted with the new HQ which will support agile working and new efficiencies in an environment that will enable our growing business to continue to attract and retain world-class talent. Edge’s design embodies our brand and will help us preserve and support our heritage and culture as we expand.”Agricultural cues inform an 21st Century aestheticThe exterior of the campus looks sharp against the skyline whilst taking visual cues and inspiration from agricultural architecture. The interiors are a mix of single and two storey spaces encapsulating open plan and more defined rooms with levels reached by broad stairways. Structural steel and timber add visual heft to the predominantly white pallete which sees certain elements picked out in oxide red, deep teal and warm grey. It certainly delivers the wow factor and promises to nurture creative thought.Bailey Construction were the main contractor for the project, with Elmsmere Interior Systems responsible for the installation of the Rockfon acoustic systems. Gary Sturgess of Elmsmere spoke about the project, “This was an interesting project with Rockfon Mono® Acoustic used in a variety of roles and settings to help control sound while fitting in with the clean, pared down style of the interiors. Everyone concerned is very happy with the completed work which showcases Mono’s versatility.”Pandemic pause affects design choicesAppointed in 2019, Joules’ CEO Nick Jones joined the Group during the design and construction of the new HQ. However, when the pandemic struck and people shifted to working from home, construction was halted which allowed the company to revise its plans to best suit new methods of working and office culture. In response the company has expanded the central atrium and created more space between desks to promote spontaneous interaction. Meeting rooms are equipped with tech enabling remote workers to easily participate, while floor-to-ceiling windows and outdoor features, including a bug hotel, help to connect the space to the company’s countryside heritage.Nick Jones commented, “With the opening of our new office, we have introduced a new fully flexible approach to how and where our colleagues work, and the space that we have is critical to that. Not only does our new office allow teams to better connect with one and other—whether in the office or working from home—but also brings the countryside in, to help inspire colleagues from across the business.”Rockfon Mono Acoustic – versatility and styleRockfon’s Matt Barratt, “The completed Joules HQ looks fabulous. Throughout its open plan offices Rockfon Mono Acoustic has been installed to great effect, bringing together the seamless, clean lines associated with traditional plastered surfaces and acoustic performance thought only possible with modular systems. Large windows, structural steel and other hard architectural elements can generate unwanted sound within a space. Mono provides Class A sound absorption (0.95αw) which significantly decreases echo and reverberation levels.”The current utility aesthetic is in evidence at ‘the Barn’. Air conditioning, heating, ventilation and other services are on show in several areas, with Mono installed directly above. It offers Class A2 fire protection and remains dimensionally stable at up to 100% relative humidity. It offers 87% light reflection and greater than 99% light diffusion. In common with other Rockfon acoustic systems, Mono is made with a core of naturally occurring inert volcanic rock stonewall, is non-combustible and will not harbour harmful microorganisms and bacteria. It can be installed using a suspended grid system or be directly mounted on to the ceiling soffit or and wall.   

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

When it comes to refurbishing a landmark as historic and luxurious as the Old War Office, every detail counts. The selection of Access Building Products Access Panels for this prestigious project is a testament to the company’s commitment to quality, design, and functionality.The Project: A Blend of History and LuxuryFast forward to today, the Grade II listed Old War Office building, which has been closed to the public for more than a century, has undergone a magnificent transformation. The building has been re-imagined and redeveloped into a luxury hotel and residences, bringing a new lease of life to this historic site. This transformation demanded products that could match its grandeur while maintaining its historic charm.The Challenge: Balancing Aesthetics and FunctionalityEvery customer wants their access panels to seamlessly blend with the interior design, ensuring that the necessary utility access points don’t detract from the building’s aesthetic appeal. This was a critical consideration for such a historical building.The Result: A Seamless Fusion of History and ModernitySupplying a range of discreet steel and plaster in style access panels in the Old War Office refurbishment was a resounding success. These panels not only met the practical requirements but also added to the overall aesthetic, creating a harmonious blend of historic elegance and modern luxury.The Old War Office now stands as a shining example of how to preserve historical charm while incorporating modern necessities. This project has further cemented Access Building reputation as a reliable provider of high-quality access panels, capable of meeting the demands of even the most prestigious refurbishment projects.In conclusion, when history meets luxury, it’s essential to make the right choices. And in the case of the Old War Office refurbishment, Access Building Products Access Panels were the perfect choice.

Style recently revolutionized the new London office of global law firm, Baker McKenzie, with the installation of multiple moveable wall systems. The project, designed with architect Hassell and contractor Mace Interiors, enhances space flexibility in a multifunction area and on the terrace floor which boasts expansive city views.In the multifunction space, Style installed three Skyfold vertically rising walls and a Dorma Huppe Variflex ComfortDrive glazed wall. This innovative combination creates a self-contained room in an open plan area and is the first time Style has used Skyfolds to abut the ends of a glass moveable wall, with a third Skyfold further dividing the space.On level 11, a semi-automatic Dorma Huppe glazed wall transforms the terrace area into a private dining or meeting space, without obstructing the vista. Elsewhere, Style installed two more glazed Variflex moveable walls and three solid Variflex walls, enhancing the adaptability of the company’s meeting suites, making this a truly adaptable office.With 70 international offices, Baker McKenzie provides a wide range of legal and tax services and the new London office, at 280 Bishopsgate, is a key hub in their network. Prioritizing a culture that promotes collaboration, the office has been designed with intelligent workspace that aims to enhance employee and client engagement. “To divide the multifunctional space, the fully automatic glass Variflex slides across to form the outer periphery of the conference room, creating a new corridor with pass doors,” explains Michael Porter, Style’s managing director. “The two Skyfolds then descend automatically from the ceiling to form the end walls with a final Skyfold being lowered from within the ceiling cavity in the middle of the room to further sub-dividing the area.”“As a fully automated solution this configuration of moveable walls delivers some serious wow-factor as they move into position,” said Porter. “This is not only a highly dynamic space solution but a real showcase in office design too.”The Skyfolds in the conference room offer phenomenal 60dB acoustic ratings whilst the glazed moveable walls provide a 52dB rating, ensuring meetings and client functions can take place in complete privacy when the walls are in place.

Coventry Building Society recently opened its new, ultra-modern head office at Binley Business Park. With strong green credentials, the 40,000 sq ft development prioritises staff wellbeing through healthy workplace design.In a key meeting area, Style worked with contractors, Barnwood, to divide a large, open-plan space into two separate rooms.Combining effortless manoeuvrability with exceptional acoustic performance, a Dorma Hüppe Variflex moveable wall was installed, allowing separate meetings to run concurrently, undisturbed. Supporting the sustainability aims of the development, the Variflex system has an environmental product declaration (EPD) in accordance with ISO 14025 and EN 150804. In addition, Style is the only UK partitioning specialists that is accredited under the ISO 14001:2004 Environmental Management System, ensuring operational processes maximise sustainability goals whilst limiting wasted resources.Recently named one of the best places to work in the country, Coventry Building Society has designed the new head office to include relaxation and quiet areas, a multi-faith room, eat-and-meet hubs for socialising as well as kitchen areas with complimentary drinks and fruit. Throughout the building there is a range of collaborative spaces for in-office employees as well as zoom pods for hybrid working.The building itself is powered by renewable energy and 632 high-efficiency solar panels produce 30 per cent of the electricity required. Outside, the car park has electric vehicle charging points, and inside, an entire wall is covered in moss, helping improve air quality and absorb noise.“Specifying a moveable wall system with an EPD, shows you are serious about your carbon footprint, said Steve Williams, sales director for Style Midlands.“An EPD delivers science-based, verified and comparable information about the environmental performance of a system, including areas such as global warming potential, for example.“This is a top end moveable wall from Dorma Hüppe, delivering a 55db acoustic rating and sustainability qualifications that are second-to-none.”

Hydrostop AH-25 liquid roofing was chosen as a better alternative to built-up roofing for installation to a new build Surrey County Council office development. The Hydrostop AH-25 system was applied over a concrete substrate with a bituminous vapour control layer with Eurodeck liquid roofing board and cut to falls insulation.

100 Bishopsgate is a 40-storey tower situated in the heart of the City, a stone's throw from famous London landmarks such as the Gherkin. As the building focuses on panoramic views and high-quality open concept office spaces, it was integral that we ensured that our compartmentation solutions did not interfere with the aesthetics of the building but would still provide the necessary fire safety. Working closely with main contractor Multiplex and other trades, Adexon successfully installed over a hundred of our Fire Curtains, including some non-standard components such as satin-finish stainless steel bottom/guide rails. All systems were installed on time!

The problem Hitachi had came from the sun’s glare. Being a tall building with lots of large glazed areas, south-facing and with other glazed buildings around it, office workers would be subjected to long periods of sunshine. YewdaleDefiant® R20 Sidewinder roller blinds were specified with Mid Grey 3% Roe fabric. This fabric is a screen fabric that limits the glare of the sun but still lets in plenty of ambient light. Read more about this project.

Experience Spectacular Laminated Glass Designs with evguard® QATAR ENERGY HEAD OFFICEMajlis Al Taawon street, West Bay Doha, QatarThe headquarters for QatarEnergy is located in the Qatar Petroleum District, which is a set of ten towers office buildings on the Majlis Al Taawon street, in West Bay Doha, Qatar. The tallest building is called Tower 7 and is 222.07 metres high and has 47 floors. It was begun in 2012 and completed in 2016. The design and construction have been done under the supervision of AECOM. Qatar Petroleum District towers include a five-star business hotel, restaurants, conference centre, mosque and other amenities.Spectra Arts/Qatar contributed to its marvelous design with the spectacular laminated glass design with evguard®.Spectra Arts has been in the glass industry for decades and is known for the beautiful glass roof and skylight installations. Spectra Arts is mastering the creation of timeless hand-made pieces crafted by their artists and fabrication of classic to contemporary panels using the latest glass machinery.Photos – QATAR ENERGY HEAD OFFICE / laminated glass by MEBG&SpectraArts Contact Spectra Arts, Qatar for more information on the project:Spectra ArtsTel: +974 44581112email: info@spectraarts.comwww.spectraarts.comContact MEBG for #evguard® in the Middle East Issa OSMAN issaosman@gmebusiness.com+961 3 145 155Nagham OsmanNagham.osman@gmebusiness.comAline Daheraline.daher@gmebusiness.com+961 1 511081Contact GlassParts for #evguard® in UK & IrelandTony Mallick +44 7392 458390tony@glassparts.co.ukwww.glassparts.co.uk

The Arena Central projects comprises of two blocks housing 324 apartments, part of a £40 million build-to-rent scheme. Location: BirminghamContractor: Galliford TryClient: Dandara LivingAspex supplied: Novista Riser Steel Doors 

Our innovative Alto FENIX toilet cubicles, with their unique super matt surface, have been used to create a striking design statement for a leading fashion retailer. Manufactured from FENIX NTM using the latest nanotechnology, the Alto FENIX toilet cubicle is soft to touch, thermally self-healing, impact and scratch resistant, hydro repellent and has enhanced anti-bacterial properties, making it ideal for washrooms where a luxury, high performance finish is required. The new washrooms also feature our Concerto integrated duct panels, finished in Formica high pressure laminate.

Modern stainless steel railings created by Broxap help to showcase the beautifully landscaped surroundings of Bicester business park.

The renovation project above the theatre in Barnsley, developed by HLM Architects and constructed by Code Building Solutions, successfully integrated the SubFloor Raised Access Floor system to meet the acoustic damping, height increase, and level installation requirements. The system's acoustic feet effectively reduced impact noise, rebound noise, and flanking transmission, creating a productive and comfortable office environment. The inclusion of fibre-reinforced screws and slow-grown Swedish pine ensured the system's compliance with load-bearing requirements. Contractors praised the simplicity and efficiency of the assembly process, reaffirming the system's suitability for architects and contractors in the construction industry. The SubFloor system proved to be a reliable and effective solution for achieving superior acoustic performance and efficiency in office renovations.Products:Wooden Joist 45 x 70 mmSubFloor Screw 300 mmScrew Foot Acoustic 25 Construction:Joist separation c/c 600 mmBuilding height: 112 – 364 mm Data:System weight: 4.50 kg/m²Acoustic damping: Up to 28 dB [rating according to ISO 717-2]Point Load 50 x 50 mm (c/c 600 mm):15.3 kN/m² - Next to screw over joist10.6 kN/m² - Between joists[According to SS-EN 1195:1998] Materials:Pine T0-C24Fibre-reinforced VitamidePolyamide + Thermoplastic Elastomer

A great example of 1930s Art Deco architecture, The Douglas Building sits on Great Titchfield Street in London’s West End. Formerly known as The Media Village, Douglas House was acquired by serviced office providers The Office Group (TOG) from landlords The Langham Estate in 2019. TOG together with Note Design Studio transformed the building with a colourful concept that blends the distinctive 1930s features and gives a sense of fluidity, openness and light throughout.As its former name suggests this area of London is a hub for local media and IT businesses operating out of the West End and the brief for the building was to create a flexible workspace where people can feel stimulated by their environment leading to greater productivity. Wellness was also a central focus and the building includes an oxygen room, a parents’ room and a roof terrace which are all integral to enabling and inspiring everyone who enters.Well ventilated and an abundance of natural light have become buzzwords in the COVID era and the more than 300 new steel windows from the Clement EB24 range which were chosen by office fit out and refurbishment contractors Parkeray perfectly facilitate both. Polyester powder coated in Pure White and furnished with Warren handles in a satin chrome finish the windows lend the building a contemporary look on the outside as well as supporting the 21st century ways of working inside.Peter Clement, Chief Executive of Clement Windows Group, commented:“As with all prestigious window replacement projects of this magnitude Clement took part in a competitive tender process. Whilst this was in play we understand that both Parkeray and the client’s team had the opportunity to compare our EB24 steel window to others being considered. We believe it was the quality and overall finish of EB24 combined with an attractive price and fine references that convinced them and the client to proceed with us.”

Project Overview 103 Colmore Row is an architectural tour de force. This landmark building – the tallest office development in Birmingham – offers 230,084 sq ft of office space. There’s also an extensive restaurant on the top two floors, giving occupiers unrivalled views of the city.ChallengesIn this busy, 26-storey development, fire safety is of paramount importance. We received briefs from occupiers of a number of floors, requesting us to modify the fire suppression system to ensure safety and compliance. We were asked to deliver the fit-out package in accordance with LPC Rules incorporating BS EN 12845. The layout included new offices with walls, partitions, pods and suspended ceilings.Since these finishes were design-led, we had to work with the fit-out contractor and architect to align their design aesthetic with the sprinkler layout.Completing the fit out within the defined project schedule and budget, while delivering maximum efficiency, was a challenge.SolutionsWith nearly 140 years of innovation behind us, we’re world leaders in sprinklers, fire suppression systems and wider integrated solutions. Using this expertise, we designed a fit-out package to meet our customers’ goals – ensuring maximum fire safety and compliance. Since 103 Colmore Row is a finished, occupied building – not a  building site – the biggest challenge was logistics. We had to work closely with the landlord to plan routes, split deliveries and protect our routes to the floor. We needed to do all of this at agreed times to minimise disruption to the other tenants. Having installed the base build, we already understood the building and had a strong relationship with the landlord, which was a great benefit. The importance we placed on our relationship and  communication with stakeholders was key. This allowed us to work closely with the fit-out company to understand their programme and sequence of work. We became an extension of their team, working alongside them to complete the programme. Owning the supply chain also played an important role in delivering the project on time. We had the ability to place a call-off order for materials on the same day, which is essential in a project of this nature. We worked with our supply chain partners to meet the programme demands of the site. Due to the nature of the work, we needed to be flexible with labour – which our use of subcontractors allowed for.Results By fostering close working relationships with the fit-out company, we were able to deliver the package on time and within budget. To ensure compliance with LPC Rules incorporating BS EN 12845, while respecting the architectural finishes of the building, we took a consultative approach with the client. Our specialists were able to integrate sprinkler modifications into the architect’s design — resulting in a safe, cohesive environment that meets our customers’ needs.

Yaasa Ltd. has established itself as a leading force in the online sale of ergonomically adjustable office furniture. With the expansion of its headquarters in Lannach, the company is creating not only space for innovation and product development but also new, accessible workplaces for up to 50 employees. The building, which was constructed in a strict economical manner, meets the European targets for a “Nearly Zero Emission Building". Thus, Yaasa demonstrates its commitment to sustainability and, with its own showroom, offers customers the opportunity to experience products first-hand. Lindner played a key role in the sustainable interior fit-out of the new company building: By using raised floors made from recycled wood panels, Lindner demonstrates how resource conservation and sustainability in the construction industry can also be put into practice. The wooden floors have the same physical and technical properties as a new flooring system – without compromising the special quality of the working environment. The texture of the wooden floor contributes to a pleasant atmosphere and completes the overall result of homely workspaces.

One of the first projects we worked on with Vox Ignis was a 16-storey student accommodation development in Bournemouth with an adjoining car park and office building, that required an Emergency Voice Communication System (EVCS). The property developer was – and remains to this day – one of our largest clients, so we knew we had to work with a partner we could trust and that had the capability to provide us with products that were really at the cutting-edge of the safety and security industries.Prior to this, just after they’d launched Vox Ignis, the two founding partners of the firm had both paid a visit to our headquarters in the South East to show us their marketing material.  Once they demonstrated a few examples of their products, we were sold on them As a company which specialises in the design, installation and maintenance of fire and security systems, we know that the products we buy have to be not only innovative but also aesthetically pleasing, as a lot of the people we work with are architects and creatives. This is what really made Vox Ignis stand head and shoulders above everyone else we’d worked with. Not only were their products leaders in their field in terms of technology but they were also, by far, the best-looking products out there from a design point of view.3x VILX-TMS-W-8 Master Stations6x VILX-EX-8 Expander Panels44x VILX-OSB Type B Outstations

A portfolio of Rockfon acoustic systems feature throughout the former British Gas Engineering Research Station (ERS) where iconic 1960s modernism meets 21st Century needs following sensitive and innovative refurbishment on a grand scale.The former ERS building at Killingworth has a very strong architectural pedigree. The 50,000sq.ft. Grade II* listed structure sits within a ten acre site and was the brainchild of pioneering architectural partnership Ryder and Yates. Built in 1967, the starkly beautiful, uncompromising construction was influenced by such luminaries of modernism as Le Corbusier and Lubetkin.Collaboration delivers heritage sensitive solutions Rockfon were very pleased to have been selected for the project and to have worked with RIBA Chartered Architects, Ainsworth Spark Associates on the specification of acoustic ceiling and wall systems for such an important and sensitive undertaking on behalf of property owner and main contractor North Tyneside Council. The building is now a fit for the future, multi-use resource which includes public access areas, open plan work spaces, smaller offices and meeting rooms. A primary eco-drive for the project was to bring the building back into use rather than wastefully demolish it only to build a new facility elsewhere. Recognition and respect for the building’s listed status were at the forefront of the architects’ plans. The development offered Rockfon the opportunity to demonstrate a portfolio of acoustic systems to match the particular demands of each space throughout the building.Rachel Charlesworth of Ainsworth Spark Associates talked about the project, “We needed to expose the history of the building and respect its architectural heritage whilst delivering a positive, modern working environment. An example of this was to painstakingly remove original service grid, thoroughly clean all components, down to each nut and bolt, and reinstall to help tell the historical story visible above the Eclipse Islands. The Rockfon team worked closely with us, providing solutions, particularly for the 1st floor concourse. Rockfon Blanka® X with a concealed grid and bespoke edge trim delivered the smooth, seamless appearance we were looking for to fantastic effect. The new ceiling systems clearly define the refurbishment and were a crucial part of the build.”Rockfon Blanka® offers a wide choice of options for installation and usage. Its smooth high white surface is non-directional, speeding up installation, saving time and money. The range embodies Class A sound absorption, 26dB – 46dB room to room sound Insulation, 87% light reflection and >99% light diffusion. Blanka B was also used as wall panels. All Rockfon acoustic systems are made from naturally occurring inert volcanic rock stone wool, are non-combustible and will not harbour harmful microorganisms and bacteria. Rockfon also contributes to a more sustainable future. They are recyclable and have a high recycled content, supporting the closed-loop circular economy, and are certified to leave a positive impact on people and the planet as the firm’s latest Cradle to Cradle certification confirms. Architectural legacy meets modernityThe building’s interiors use a pared back palette of greys and light wood to great effect with occasional elements picked out in blue. Original floor to ceiling strip windows and new, glazed screens, allow light to filter through.In the vast, open plan work spaces around 600 square format Rockfon Eclipse® Islands have been used to control sound and diffuse the visual impact of the exposed mechanical and electrical services above. These elegant, frameless acoustic islands are suspended in a linear formation by wires affixed to the three metre high plenum but they can also be installed using a suspended grid or fixed directly to the soffit. They absorb sound on both sides, helping to reduce reverberation time and improve ambient sound levels. Their smooth, deep matt, super white surface has anti-static properties which extend product life. Elsewhere in smaller spaces, Rockfon® Koral™ and Rockfon® Tropic™ tiles were used. Dimensionally stable, each has an attractive moisture resistant surface. Installed with semi-concealed or visible grid options they both offer Class A sound absorption and Class A1 fire safety.Rockfon expertise and support always availableKD Building Solutions were responsible for the ceiling systems installation. The firm’s John Duffy, “We wanted to develop our expertise in ceiling installation and this project certainly gave us the opportunity to do that. We faced challenges due to the need to protect the listed interiors and the re-use of original materials but Rockfon’s Jim Lundy was always available to offer support and advice. Thanks also to Minster, Newcastle for ensuring Rockfon materials were there on time. The completed installations look and perform brilliantly.”

Rathbones is part of Rathbones Group Plc, one of the UK’s largest and longest-established wealth management firms. Reflecting a growing presence in Scotland, the company recently relocated their Edinburgh offices to 10 George Street, delivering a modern and enhanced environment for employees and visiting clients. Bringing over 20 years of partitioning expertise to the refurbishment project, Style worked closely with architects, Form Design Consultants, and contractor AKP Scotland, to create flexible space in the main boardroom.A Dorma Hüppe Variflex ML100 semi-automatic moveable wall system allows the impressive boardroom to be quickly divided into two separate meeting areas whilst a second Variflex can be moved into position to create a breakout room. Rathbones Group has been providing wealth management services for private clients, charities, trustees and professional partners since 1912, and has 14 offices throughout the UK and Jersey. Refurbished to the highest standards, the new George Street offices have strong environmental credentials, including a BREEAM rating of ‘very good’, and deliver flexible working space that actively encourages collaboration. Style’s final partitioning solution offers the ability to provide one large conferencing suite, a boardroom plus breakout area, or alternatively, two meeting rooms with breakout facility.Reflecting the inviting yet sophisticated interior décor, the walls are finished in a combination of contemporary Kvadrat fabric and dark walnut laminate. The semi-automatic operation smoothly expands the acoustic seals to exactly the right pressure every time, creating an exceptional acoustic rating of 60dB, allowing for complete privacy between divided areas.“This is an absolutely stunning installation,” said David Louden, Style’s director for Scotland, “and a credit to Form Design and AKP Scotland, who have been a pleasure to work with.“They have done a great job in delivering the designer’s vision for their client, and we were very privileged to be part of such a high-quality project.

A range of CS louvre solutions were selected for the Met Office HQ in Exeter to ensure efficient airflow and protection from wind-driven rain ingress. The RSH-5700 louvre delivering Class A rain defence up to 3.0m/s was installed in the sloping façade of the main building. This model is available with an optional glazing frame detail for easy integration into curtain walling. For the IT building, where airflow delivery was a key specification factor, the A-3105C ventilation louvre offering continuous blade appearance and hidden mullions was selected. This product offers Class 1 airflow performance and low pressure drop.

Style recently worked with contractor, AKP, to create space flexibility in AECOM’s new Glasgow premises. The addition of a Dorma Huppe Variflex glass and a Variflex solid moveable wall allow staff to create a meeting room within a main breakout area, as well as an additional meeting area near a social pool room and relaxation space.Both partitioning systems benefit from semi-automatic operation. The panels are moved into place manually, whereupon impressive rubber seals automatically expand to exactly the right pressure to create an effective acoustic barrier. With the glass and solid moveable walls boasting 47dB and 46dB acoustic ratings respectively, formal and informal meetings can take place without outside disturbance. AECOM, the world’s trusted infrastructure consulting firm, has bought the Glasgow team together on one site at the new Bothwell Street offices. Reflecting employee preferences for more balanced choices when going to the office, the city centre location boasts Scotland’s first roof-top running track, spa-like shower facilities and over 400 cycle racks. Extending the focus on wellness to the workspace, the interior design includes workstation areas, break-out and sitting areas, individual booths for calls, open collaboration project tables, as well as a confidential project room.“We were delighted to have been appointed for this very forward-thinking and highly sustainable building, which has been formally certified by the International WELL Building Institute,” said Angela McGowan, sales director at Style Scotland.“The Dorma Huppe moveable walls are EPD (Environmental Product Declaration) certified in accordance with ISO 14025 and EN15804, which means they are a perfect fit for this eco-friendly office.”The glass Variflex moveable wall has a fully glazed single pass door, allowing the wall to be left in position for extended periods of time, with ease of access.The solid moveable wall features a magnetic writable surface on one side, and black laminate on other, making it practical for use during brainstorming sessions, training and workshops.

As one of the pioneers of remote working solutions, Citrix recently chose to reconfigure their offices, taking on an additional space at the Cambridge Science Park. Aiming to create an environment that would facilitate engagement, creativity and productivity, moveable wall specialists, Style worked closely with architect, Gensler, and contractor, Area Sq, to offer intensely flexible workspace.Delivering exceptional acoustic ratings of 55dB and 52dB respectively, Style installed two Dorma Hüppe Variflex solid moveable walls and a single Variflex glass moveable wall, allowing Citrix staff to section off a meeting area from the main hall and then further sub-divide the space as required. Contributing to the vibrant new décor, all walls feature black RAL 9005 profiles and dry wipe magnetic boards to encourage brainstorming. Cambridge Science Park has been home to the UK Citrix Research and Development team for over a decade. Having occupied approx. 30,000 sq ft of space on the first floor, Citrix was keen to refurbish their existing workplace as well as expand operations by taking over additional space on the ground floor.Reflecting the Citrix vision and culture, the new layout and design maximises the potential of the space, allowing staff to establish new ways of collaborating.When all three walls are in place, three smaller meeting rooms are created. Alternatively, a combination of one large and one small meeting room can be formed, or just one very large space using just the glass moveable wall. The entire space can also be opened-up into one large open plan area. “This is an excellent example of how a combination of glass and solid moveable walls can create really adaptable office space,” said Steve Williams, sales director for Style Midlands.“Thanks to the inclusion of three pass doors, access is simplified and also allows the glass wall to be left in place for extended periods if desired, creating a more permanent space. “However, due to the semi-automatic operation of these operable walls, they can be opened up extremely quickly so that the entire space can be reconfigured for different vents throughout the day.” 

Style’s glazed folding wall system, the Stylefold 120, was recently installed at Clarksons Port Services’ new offices in Aberdeen, allowing a highly functional meeting room to be quickly created at one end of a large open-plan area. When not required, the wall can easily be folded back to merge the room seamlessly into the larger space.A leading expert in moveable wall systems, Style offers an extensive range of solutions for almost any location, including being the sole UK distributor for Dorma Hüppe, as well as for the revolutionary Skyfold vertical rising wall range.The Stylefold 120 folding wall installed at Clarksons is a simple, yet very effective solution for rapidly dividing space, with the glass panels maximising natural light whilst still delivering a 31dB acoustic rating for privacy. Clarksons Port Services is a division of Clarksons, the world’s leading integrated shipping services group. Having moved to larger premises at Aberdeen Harbour’s Matthew’s Quay, with a view to increasing efficiency and reducing carbon footprint, the integrated shipping and offshore services provider now has 1,600 sq metres of outdoor storage and 2,000 sq metres of customs bonded warehouse at this site.Style worked closely with architects, Philip Rodgers Design, and contractor, TransForm, to deliver a partitioning solution for the new offices that successfully combines functionality with exceptional aesthetics. Making minimal impact on the existing structure, the Stylefold 120 is easy to install wherever an economical retrofit solution is required. “The Stylefold 120 folding wall is smooth and effortless to manoeuvre, whilst the anthracite finish specified at the Aberdeen offices perfectly complements the contemporary interior design,” said David Louden, Style’s director for Scotland.“The addition of an integrated pass door means that it is entirely practical to leave the private meeting room in situ for long periods, if desired.”

FIREFLY™ PHOENIX Offers Temporary Fire Protection For Fenchurch Street OfficesThe refurbishment of two complete floors to one of the City’s largest office buildings is making use of the well proven and versatile TBA FIREFLY™ PHOENIX smoke & flame barriers, to create temporary fire barriers while the work is being carried out: protecting people and property across the rest of the five storey structure where business continues as normal.The project at 30 Fenchurch Street, EC3 is being led by Overbury – one of the capital’s most experienced fit-out contractors, while the London office of HLW Architects is leading the design team. T&R Fire Protection meanwhile is the specialist sub-contractor carrying out the installation of the PHOENIX around the atrium, as well as other passive fire protection measures as the scheme evolves.In total T&R has fixed 22 rolls of the lightweight PHOENIX material to create the two hour integrity smoke and flame barriers around the glazed edge of the floor plates at levels Three and Four of 30 Fenchurch Street. The lightweight barrier has been fixed to the bulkhead and at intervals down all of the existing columns, before finally being secured across steel angle sections bolted to the floor slab.IFC Certification duly inspected all 160 metres of the temporary barriers – up to 3,300 mm in height - once installed, on behalf of Overbury and duly issued a certificate of compliance. The permanent works are expected to include creating fire breaks within the ceiling zones at 20 metre intervals, as part of T&R’s overall contract for Fenchurch Street in the region of £250K.The Site Manager for T&R Fire Protection, Tom Port Smith, commented: “We’ve used PHOENIX and other FIREFLY™ products on many hundreds of projects in the past, but in this case it was the insurers for the project who insisted on the installation of the screens to protect the atrium while the sprinkler system was being replaced. The installation though was relatively straightforward and in our work generally, FIREFLY™ is our ‘go to’ manufacturer when it comes to fire compartmentation. We base our recommendations and design drawings on TBA FIREFLY™ standard details and, once they’ve been approved, go in and install the flexible fire barriers.”Tom, like the majority of T&R Fire Protection’s operatives, has attended training sessions at FIREFLY's premises in Rochdale, reinforcing their trade skills and gaining valuable insights into the performance parameters of the different barriers in the range.FIREFLY™ PHOENIX is a lightweight smoke & flame barrier developed to enable compartmentation within buildings to provide up to 120 minutes’ integrity under BS476 Parts 20 & 22. Certified by IFCC, the flexible and straightforward to install material and is suitable for both new-build and retrofit situations.Manufactured from woven and non-woven glass, the FIREFLY™ range is designed to optimise resistance to flame and smoke as well as offer heat protection in a wide range of scenarios. The flexible barriers are easy to install horizontally or vertically using a full selection of ancillary products. Used mainly in the construction industry across the UK and Europe, FIREFLY™ Fire Barriers help to contain fire, giving building occupants extra time to evacuate and the fire service to enter safely.

Tallest tower in London’s financial district uses market-leading SonaSpray for acoustic perfection.As well as dominating the skyline of London’s financial district with its striking 23-sided glass façade, 22 Bishopsgate has not only rewritten the rules of what a modern office space should look like but also how it sounds. Having become a ‘mecca’ for workplace wellbeing, putting individuals and employees at the heart of its design, it was important that the spaces sounded as good as they looked. With acoustics playing a leading role in delivering overall comfort to a space, partnering interior design studios DesignLSM and The Morris Project turned to experts, Oscar Acoustics, to control sound levels within its buzzing food and dining area - ‘The Market’ for pitch-perfect ambience.  Known as the ‘foodie heart’ of 22 Bishopsgate, its selection of bustling food counters makes it a hub for workers looking to drink coffee, take lunch breaks and host meetings. However, being a lively, open hospitality space, the clink of cutlery and energetic conversation would mean that the café space was at risk of excessively high noise levels, which left unchecked would create an uncomfortable drinking and dining experience for guests.  Karen Taylor, DesignLSM’s lead designer, said: “Providing a healthy environment that would enhance the physical and mental wellbeing of those working in the building was a top priority when designing the 20,000sq ft space. The building itself includes triple-glazed windows to reduce outside noise, but it was important that the internal acoustics were just as well considered to compliment the sense of balance and harmony throughout.  “As a multi-purpose space, The Market area is a dynamic part of the building where the Bishopsgate community can unwind, dine and socialise. Whilst the area needed to have a spirited ‘buzz’ to it, there would also be guests that wanted to relax and recharge, and therefore considering the people and their needs was always at the forefront of our design strategy.” As The Market includes an array of hard surfaces such as tables and chairs in-line with its open dining aesthetic, a solution was needed to counteract noise reverberation and echo, which causes sound levels to climb. To remedy this, DesignLSM turned to Oscar Acoustics’ SonaSpray acoustic spray range. Once applied to ceilings or walls the seamless acoustic finish absorbs sound energy instead of reflecting it, enabling designers to create serene and inviting spaces. In this case, its SonaSpray fcx acoustic plaster finish was used to reduce overall noise for a more calming atmosphere. With strict building deadlines and restrictions to adhere to, SonaSpray was also chosen for its efficiency as it can be applied quickly with minimum disruption, allowing work to continue as promptly as possible.  Importantly, it was Oscar Acoustics’ third-party safety certifications that caught the eyes of designers. With such a large building to consider, fire safety had to be a number one priority. With fire credentials that go above and beyond Approved Document B fire requirements (Class 0 to BS476 & B-s1, d0 fire rating), the SonaSpray range produces little to no smoke and absolutely no droplets – which can assist in the safe escape of occupants should an event occur.  As the first building in the UK to apply for the WELL Building Standard, the premium acoustic spray was a perfect fit due its contributions towards many sustainable design and health certification systems including WELL, BREEAM, SKA, Living Building Challenge and adds up to 17 points towards the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) rating of a project. It also boasts GREENGUARD Gold certification which shows it has met some of the world’s most rigorous and comprehensive standards for low emissions of VOCs into indoor air, aiding in the creation of healthier indoor environments. Ben Hancock managing director at Oscar Acoustics, said: “22 Bishopsgate has raised the bar in office design and it’s a real feather in our cap to be part of such a pioneering and monumental building.  “When we were approached about the project, we jumped at the chance. The design ethos of 22 Bishopsgate aligns closely with our own values – putting employee wellness and comfort above all else.  “It’s clear that our experience working on some of the UK's biggest office refurbishments has been put into action, encapsulating future thinking around work/life balance, to create a dining destination that offers maximum comfort without comprising on design. “We know from our own independent research that excessive levels of noise are a major deterrent for workers who want to embrace hybrid working – but this building proves that if it handled correctly, it’s possible to create a space where employees want to revisit time and time again.”Image credits to Tom Meredith Photography.

Project detailsToyota contacted Watco looking for a long lasting anti slip decking solution. Four of Toyota GB Plc Head Office fire exits open onto an outdoor decking area, leading to assembly points. The decking is also used as a seating area at lunchtime for staff. In wet and frosty weather the decking becomes slippery, causing concern around slip hazards, especially in an emergency evacuation.Whilst the safety of its employees was the main concern, Toyota also wanted to ensure that the anti slip solution was easy to fix and would blend in with the natural colour of the decking.In addition, they needed a solution that could be fixed in the decking indentations. Having looked at several other solutions, it seems that most involved fixing the anti slip strips in the gaps between the boards, thus requiring extra work as the existing gaps were not wide enough. Our solutionWatco recommended and supplied heavy duty slip resistant GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) Decking Strips. The strips in ‘stone’ colour blended in well with the timber and were supplied pre-drilled for easy fixing.Toyota were delighted with the outcome. The new anti slip decking strips provide safe fire escape routes for staff, whilst maintaining the aesthetics of the landscaped outdoor area."Our GRP Decking Strips are virtually indestructible, based on an extremely durable fibreglass base with a coarse, ceramic grit which is bonded to the top for a heavy duty, slip resistant surface. Chamfered edges minimise trip hazards. The strips are available in black, stone or yellow."Watco Decking Strips are supplied pre-drilled and with screws. The strips can be trimmed on site using a hacksaw or, if required, Watco will supply the strips already cut to size.

20 Water Street in Canary Wharf, London is leading the way for how offices should look and feel in the post-pandemic era. As the HQ for real estate giant, JLL, this serene waterside workspace has become synonymous with sustainability and wellbeing. With high expectations to meet in terms of staff welfare, Tétris knew it needed to ensure each space was designed for appearance but most importantly experience. This meant creating productive workspaces free of distraction, where employees can focus and thrive. It was also vital that teams could easily collaborate in its spaces, without having to raise their voices to be heard. With the ability to absorb sound energy instead of reflecting it, SonaSpray K-13 Special, provided the perfect acoustic solution – giving clarity to speech and keeping unwanted excess noise at bay. Along with many other design benefits, SonaSpray follows the lines of whatever is beneath it, giving architects and designers the freedom to design without the constraints of traditional acoustic methods.Image credits to Jonathan Banks Photography.

Working with architect, T P Bennett and contractor, Overbury, moveable wall specialist Style was recently specified to create flexible seminar space on floor 1 of Aviva’s new London head offices in Fenchurch Street.A single Dorma Huppe Variflex ComforTronic, semi-automatic moveable wall, boasting an outstanding 59dB acoustic performance, separates the seminar area from the catering and breakout zone. A second Variflex system allows the space to be further sub-divided into two smaller rooms. Both walls are finished in a chic Kvadrat Encircle fabric, one grey and the other a deep green, perfectly complementing the interior décor.Aligning with Aviva’s commitment to achieve Net Zero by 2040, the Variflex system has an EPD (Environmental Product Declaration) in accordance with ISO 14025 and EN 15804. This certification provides transparent and verified information about the environmental impact of the product across its lifecycle. Aviva’s new head office is spread over multiple floors, providing modern and spacious working areas that aim to facilitate collaboration and innovation amongst the 1,500 employees that work there. “This is a very sophisticated seminar area,” said Michael Porter, Style’s group managing director, “and thanks to the ease of manoeuvrability and high-end acoustic ratings of the two Dorma Huppe Variflex moveable walls, it can be quickly transformed to cater for one large, or two small, seminars.“Once the seminars are over, the room can also be fully opened up into a vast open plan area for catering and networking, making this an exceptional solution for Aviva whose requirements can change daily.”Style is the exclusive UK partner to Dorma Huppe, offering a wide range of manual, semi-automatic and fully automated moveable walls.Further attesting to the sustainability of the installation, Style is accredited under the ISO 14001:2004 Environmental Management System. This certification ensures that the company adheres to practices that maximize sustainability and minimize waste throughout their operational processes​.

Drawing on over 20 years of experience installing operable walls, Style was recently challenged to come up with a solution to divide a large meeting area, despite there being no suitable structure in the ceiling to utilise as a fixing point. After some lateral thinking and close communication with the client, a non-structural timber frame was created for support, with the weight of the folding wall being transferred to the ground via a surface mounted floor track. A Stylefold 120 folding wall system was chosen as the only operable wall that could realistically accommodate the room structure.The client for this project was the international company, CEMAR, which offers a state-of-the-art, cloud-based administration support and contract administration product to companies in the construction sector. As part of a substantial refurbishment project of the Gloucestershire offices, CEMAR wanted to incorporate space flexibility to the existing open-plan meeting area. This would allow the expansive space to be quickly divided into two separate meeting rooms, or opened up for larger gatherings, presentations and as a general break out space.Demonstrating their expertise in this sector, Style was able to rise to challenge of installing an operable wall in an area with insufficient ceiling structure to support a partition, delivering a high-quality solution that directly meets the clients’ needs.“We’re very proud of our ability to work with clients to overcome complications in room structure and design, and develop a solution that works perfectly for them,” said Julian Sargent, Style’s group managing director.“The final installation not only complements the room’s interior design with a white melamine finish, but also offers 46dB Rw acoustic integrity and a pass door for room access when the wall is in place.”Style is the multi-award winning, market leader in moveable partitioning walls. With 4 regional offices across the UK and a showroom in London, the company specialises in creating flexible space across a broad cross section of sectors including corporate, hospitality, religion, education, local authority and healthcare.

The ProjectIn 2012, The Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC) aimed to improve their sustainability credentials by upgrading washroom facilities across its offices. The goal was to find the most energy efficient, sustainable and user-friendly replacement hand dryers for its numerous washrooms throughout its HQ buildings 3 Whitehall Place and 55 Whitehall.Firstly, DECC wanted to eliminate paper towels, thereby cutting waste disposal costs, as well as minimising the labour hours required for waste collection/disposal. Additionally, they wanted to reduce energy consumption of hand dryers by installing the lowest power rated solutions available, and reduce standby power consumption.Secondly, DECC specified that energy efficiency must be assessed in terms of energy per dry rather than solely kilowatts (kW), recognising that some hand dryers may take longer to complete the drying process than others. Lastly, DECC aimed to enhance the washroom environment for its staff by minimizing noise levels.The SolutionDECC opted to install 54 Biodrier Biolite low energy hand dryers, sourced by their facilities management company, in order to meet these sustainability goals.These compact, yet powerful hand dryers serve an energy-efficient hand drying solution, perfect for companies striving to adopt more eco-friendly practices in the washroom.The ResultsWaste Reduction:In the Greening Government Commitments report published in December 2013, DECC reported good progress towards meeting its waste reduction commitments. It states that DECC has seen a 14% reduction in waste in 2012/13, with part of this improvement attributed to the installation of the hand dryers and phasing out of paper towels.Energy Savings:DECC reports that the Biodrier Biolite hand dryers use significantly less energy, both in use and during standby periods. This is due to the evolution of hand dryer technology, allowing for an adjustable heater element. For organisations like DECC, this provides the opportunity to use the lower energy setting during summer months, as warmer air is not required.Minimising energy consumption when not in use is also key to delivering these energy savings. Solutions like the Biolite have a very low standby usage of just 0.1kW.Lastly, the Biolite hand drying cycle lasts just 10-12 seconds with these, further minimising energy use.Enhanced Washroom Experience:Switching from paper towels to hand dryers delivered an instant visual transformation in the tidiness of the washroom, as well as the bins taking longer to fill.Noise is minimised too with levels limited to just 70 dBa, improving the washroom experience further.Swift Payback Period:The payback period for these Biolite dryers was calculated to be only 17.2 months (based on DECC’s five-day working week).

Column mounted perimeter safety barriers for the upper desk and ramp of a two storey shoppers’ car park.

As part of our involvement in this project we supplied a bespoke reception desk and a variety of fire-rated door-sets.

Cadworks™ aims to be one of the most sustainable buildings in Scotland. It has been designed with the health and wellbeing of the occupier front of mind.  Location: GlasgowContractor: Bowmer + KirklandArchitect: Cooper CromerAspex supplied: Ironmongery, Novista Riser Steel, Integra Commercial Doorsets

Biotecture’s impressive 93m2 green wall for the atrium of British Gas owner, Centrica’s new Oxford headquarters was an integrated element of the ambitious sustainability aims for the building; the green wall, which reaches three storeys up, contributed to the building’s BREEAM rating of 'Excellent', acting as acoustic buffer and a natural filter to improve air quality.