"steel"

The Sustainable Aviation Fuels Innovation Centre (SAF-IC) building has been enveloped in steel made in Port Talbot and manufactured in Shotton.The Sustainable Aviation Fuels Innovation Centre (SAF-IC) is a bespoke research centre for the development and testing of sustainable aviation fuels. SAF-IC is jointly funded by the European Regional Development Fund and the University of Sheffield.Based at the University of Sheffield Innovation District and forming part of the University’s Energy Institute, SAF-IC is enabling practical solutions to the challenge of making vital jet travel more sustainable for the industry and our planet.Based at the University of Sheffield Innovation District and forming part of the University’s Energy Institute, SAF-IC is enabling practical solutions to the challenge of making vital jet travel more sustainable for the industry and our planet.A result of a partnership between Boeing and The University of Sheffield, the building forms part of the University’s Translational Energy Research Centre.

A landmark in the regeneration of Spitalfields,The Steward Building is situated within the historically and architecturally interesting Artillery Passage Conservation Area.The site required the highest quality stainless steel louvre as a street front cladding, providing ventilation and visual screening, on two elevations of a prime office development.The design, which was developed by Lang+Fulton, featured recessed supports for the panels and incorporated a sliding door with concealed gate hardware to achieve a seamless aesthetic.The louvred panels were made from DeltaBox/SS-90 a pressure locked stainless steel product.

The final phase of the £500m redevelopment of Kings Cross has been completed with the creation of a 75,000 sq ft square in front of the station.The square has granite benches with inset panels of high quality stainless steel grating supplied by Lang+Fulton, stunning lighting, trees and an area dedicated to art.The 11×66/25×2 heel-proof grating panels for the six separate seating areas were shaped to accommodate the up-lighters, the planting and adjacent watering points and were supplied in stainless steel grade AISI-316L with a satin finish.

For any retail application, there is usually a balance to be made between the functionality of easy access with the absolute need for security. In the case of this new build store for ASDA, the minimum requirement was for high performance steel doors that had to be delivered on time, to specification and within budget.Strongdor worked with the architects and contractor to ensure the supply of the doors that more than met the criteria.

Client: RL HarrisonContract value: £50kProducts used:3kN loading rectangular post balustrade with glass infill panels to viewing areas1.5kN loading 48mm diameter stainless steel balustrade to main staircaseWe were appointed to provide more than 90 metres of balustrades and 25 metres of handrails to Burton Rugby Club’s new Battlestead Croft site in Burton-on-Trent. This project involved supplying and installing balustrades and handrails to the viewing areas and main staircase of the new facility – with two important factors to consider: ensuring we stayed within the client’s budget, and selecting the most suitable products to provide an optimum viewing experience for visitors. The initial design drawings showed a vertical bar system along the viewing area, but this was not aesthetically pleasing and would have limited the view of the pitch for wheelchair users. We worked closely with the client to find the correct solution – as structural glass would have exceeded the client’s budget, we chose a balustrade system with 60×30 rectangular posts that are capable of achieving 3kN loading, with clear toughened glass infill panels. We also increased the height of the handrails, both for additional safety and to ensure it would not obscure the view of the pitch for wheelchair users. 

The new Vista apartments occupy an enviable location, close to Chelsea Bridge and overlooking Battersea Park. As a high-end residential project, the landscaping was given a high priority.Lang+Fulton were approached by the architects to propose a suitable stainless steel grating for pedestrian use, which would ventilate the underground car park. A grating with a heel proof mesh of 55x11mm was recommended and was designed with support beams and anchor bolts. The stainless steel was pickled and polished. In addition, 31m2 of galvanized mild steel grating with 66x33mm mesh was supplied for an area which was inaccessible to the public.

The sides of the pontoon, bridge and ramp at Battersea’s river boat service required ultra safe balustrades. These had to be a natural fit to the industrial environment. The Square Line 60x30 stainless steel balustrade perfectly suited the job. Its stainless steel posts were welded to the pier for extra robustness, and toughened glass infills of 10 mm thick were added. The Q-lights Spotlight LED system was invisibly embedded in the handrails for extra safety at night. The industrial looking stainless steel elements of the Square Line 60x30 system add to the appearance of the pier.

This recent converstion from a well known Blackpool arcade into public house is a success story that bears all the hallmarks of the owner’s astute buying, pricing, high turnover and excellent brand awareness.From the beginning of the project, Strongdor worked closely with the architects being involved with design, selection, supply and fitting of the best steel doors for the unusual and striking roof terrace restaurant.

SubFloor flooring was used to help renovate, raise and ventilate a 700 m² floor into a Nursery near Gothenburg, Sweden.The Subfloor ventilation system was ideal for this nursery, as it allowed for multiple floor height adjustments and for ventilation installations under the floor. Associated floor ventilation material such as ducts, air distribution strips, fans, etc. was also provided. The negative pressure the ventilation generates under the floor creates a fresh and healthy indoor environment.This simple and elegant solution raised and levelled the floor to allow for installations and insulation. The joist and screw system allows for quick and easy assembly so that the floor can reach the desired height.Products:Steel Joist 45x30x3800 mmSubFloor Screw 100 mmInsulation Bearer 45 mmHeight Variation: 46 - 100 mmJoist separation: c/c 600 mmSystem Weight - c/c 600 mm: 2.06 kg/m²Materials:Steel, Z100 GalvFibre-reinforced polypropylenePoint Load Limit (50 x 50 mm): Between screws over joist - 7.08 kNOver screws over joist - 8.78 kN

Clement was thrilled to be asked to manufacture the new steel windows and doors for this spectacular Arts and Crafts style house in the Hampstead Garden Suburb. The new leaded Brooking windows and W20 steel doors, look just like the originals – perhaps even better! Hampstead handles were chosen for the windows and Kensington handles for the doors. They were all polyester powder painted in RAL 9005 Jet Black to match the frames. Our client is really pleased with the end result and said:“We placed a large order with Clement of double glazed leaded doors and windows. From start to finish we received a first-class service and the product quality and finish is superb.” 

Bygga Construction extended this magnificent London family home to include a master suite and guest wing. As part of the project the basement was dug out to create a massive family room, complete with wine cellar. Three Clement double steel door sets were included in the design for the rear elevation. Not only do these create a stunning feature but they allow plenty of natural light into the increased family living space.

A recent upgrade to the prestigious Empress State Building for the Metropolitan Police was conducted by main contractor, Overbury.As part of the works, stainless steel shelving by GEC Anderson was specified to the vistor’s property store room. The room was very irregularly shaped and so the shelving (5 tiers of 500mm wide shelves) was specially made to suit. A total of 75 metres of shelving was supplied and installed by GEC Anderson for specialist sub contractor, BA Joinery.

GEC ANDERSON OFFERS PRISTINE PERFORMANCE FOR UCS SPORTS PAVILIONThe fit out of a major new academic sports facility in North London has included the selection of custom built sinks, work-surfaces, shelving and other stainless steel units, manufactured and installed by sector specialist, GEC Anderson.The University College School Sports Pavilion in Hampstead has been designed by Marcus Beale Architects (MBA) with LIFE Build Solutions of High Wycombe filling the role of main contractor. The area was farmland until the 20th century. The use as playing fields dates from the 1920s.The 18th month project encompassed upgrades to the schools playing fields themselves and the erection of a two-storey structure with extensive changing room facilities, showers and toilets on the first floor. The comprehensive catering facilities include kitchens large enough to serve a dining area which can seat 200. Amongst the stainless steel fabrications designed and fashioned by GEC Andersons highly experienced workforce are a number of base units which combine with single section work-surfaces, sinks and splashbacks to create an easily cleaned, hygienic and ergonomic working environment.As well as the actual kitchen, GEC Anderson also supplied adjustable wall shelving and an L-shaped, three level base unit for a food storage and preparation area. In several places GEC Andersons site survey and subsequent liaison with the project team, which also included The Litmus Partnership Ltd. Catering Consultants, led to units being tailored to fit around structural columns and to accommodate different sized pieces of catering equipment.The stainless steel back bar, with associated fabrications and appliances were also supplied and installed by GEC Anderson.A spokesperson for MBA commented: In 2015 MBA won an invited competition to design a new sports pavilion on the site. Thorough analysis of the topography and the wider views led to a radical design for a pavilion in two parts, linked by a bridge angled westwards to align precisely with the Wembley Arch.

This fine house was built in the 1920s, one of its features was the unusual ‘chequerboard’ black and white design of the original windows. The clients wished to replicate this, which required selected opening windows to be powder coated in black so as to contrast against the white outer frames. A magnificent 24-pane bay window is a prime feature of the house and shows off this unique design. The clients chose windows from Clement’s EB24 range with rectangular leaded lights. To provide added security, all the windows and doors were fitted with Clement’s multi point locking system.

Occupying an elevated position above the city of Guildford stands this wonderful house, which was built in the early 1900s. Individually designed and constructed to a very high specification, the numerous windows and doors (over three floors) allowed plenty of light to flood into the property and to take advantage of the fantastic surrounding views. Windows from Clement’s EB24 system with rectangular leaded lights were used to replicate the original fenestration. As well as the new windows being in keeping with the character of the property, the multi point locking system chosen by the client brought extra security.

The St Michael & All Angels church Birkenhead with a Natural Mill finish Aluminium designed by Richard O’Mahony of the F.X. Velarde Partnership opening in September 1965. Awarded RIBA Bronze Medal in 1967. Aluminium has changed very little over the decades remaining an established metal of choice. Extremely lightweight with a strength and durability liked by installers. The material structure makes it ideal for vertical cladding where a flat aspect is required. Bright Aluminium surfaces will adopt a Patina in favour of a matt grey tone.

John Scotting, Managing Director of main developer Scott’s Developments Ltd, commented: “The restoration of Steel City House has created a thriving business hub in the heart of Sheffield. Gradus were able to provide a choice of colour and design options that allowed us to achieve a modern flooring scheme, whilst still complementing the heritage of this period building. “The Gradus products selected provide the perfect balance between practicality and aesthetics and we’re really pleased with the finished outcome.”

SubFloor flooring was used to help renovate, raise and acoustically dampen concrete floors in apartments.The acoustic feet simply click onto the SubFloor screws and dampens any step noise up to 28 dB, this helps reduce; step noise, rebound noise and flanking transmission.This simple and elegant solution raised and levelled the floor to allow for installations and insulation underneath. The joist and screw system allows for quick and easy assembly so that the floor can reach the desired height.Products:Steel Joist 45x30x3800 mmSubFloor Screw 100 mmSubFloor Acoustic FootHeight Variation: 58 - 112 mmJoist separation: c/c 600 mmSystem Weight - c/c 600 mm: 2.21 kg/m²Materials:Steel, Z100 GalvFibre-reinforced polypropylenePolyamide + Rubber damping elementPoint Load Limit (50 x 50 mm):Between screws over joist - 6.78 kNOver screws over joist - 10.54 kN

Decimetric stainless steel sinktops, from GEC Anderson, are included within nine separate educational spaces to the newly renovated and highly impressive art building at the prestigious Stowe School in Buckingham.Stowe House was created by Sir Richard Temple in 1676 and over the next century rebuilt into the great classical show house and remarkable landscaped gardens and parkland. In 1923, the house became a school and is now a co-educational independent boarding school for over 750 boys and girls aged 13-18 years.As a consequence of the growing demand for art at Stowe School, and the need for the provision of art and design in one building on the existing site, a £2.5 million renovation and extension project took place. The project, designed by Rick Mather Architects and funded by Lord Sainsbury, transformed a tired 1930s building into a contemporary education space. The Art School now has a modern interior with plenty of extra space to offer facilities for a wide range of curriculum requirements ranging from Fine Art Drawing to Printmaking.Decimetric Classic stainless steel sinktops from GEC Anderson were specified in the Textile Room, Technician's Room, Office Kitchen, Printmaking Room, Dark Room and four Teaching areas to provide practical facilities that were durable, easy to maintain yet also attractive and inspiring to students.Sinktops of differing sizes were included to meet the individual requirements of the activities carried out. The flexible framework of sizes and options of the Decimetric range made for easy and accurate specification and a quick turnaround of the order.The sinktops, all made from professional grade stainless steel, included integral sink bowls and incorporated lipped edges to avoid spillage. The teaching rooms had extra-large sink bowls. Integral splashbacks were specified in certain areas.To bring it up to standard, the building was externally insulated and both ends raised and a staircase put in together with a mezzanine floor to provide extra space. John Morris, Head of Estates said, The original features such as windows have been kept in an effort to respect the existing form of the building.

Clement have now completed their third phase of works at Norwich City Hall, an Art Deco building completed in 1938 and designed by architects Charles Holloway James and Stephen Rowland Pierce. Clement replaced the original steel windows in this listed property with new Clement W20 windows, improving energy efficiency and security whilst retaining the character of this wonderful landmark building. Morgan Sindall, the main contractors on the project, have awarded Clement a Perfect Delivery Certificate for the works carried out.

The buildings around Clerkenwell Green in London feature a mixture of architectural styles. The area is designated a Conservation Area and some properties are listed. During the nineteenth century it was a busy centre for specialised crafts and manufacture and the buildings at No 10-11 were originally constructed as warehouses.The Uniform Clothing & Equipment Company (Uniquip) occupied the two buildings from around 1910 to the 1990s and was a well known supplier of band uniforms.Stagg Architects obtained planning permission to refurbish and extend the original 13,000 sq ft building by an additional 7,000 sq ft. The renovated building comprises a new roof extension, flexible spaces on the ground and lower ground floors and offices at the upper levels.A four storey side extension infill was constructed and Clement Windows Group were selected to manufacture the new and replacement steel windows and doors throughout the building. It was very important that the new windows were in keeping with the original building and did not detract from the character and appearance of the surrounding Conservation Area and adjoining Listed Buildings.Windows and doors from the Clement EB20 steel window range were chosen and powder paint coated in black with the accompanying hinges and handles painted to match the frames. The huge wall of steel windows to the side of building includes a patterned glass which allows light to enter while also providing privacy for the neighbouring properties.Photographs taken by Matt Chisnall, @mattchisnall

ASF manufactured these bespoke stainless steel bollards for Glasgow City Centre. Manufactured from a solid stainless steel bar, these bollards are a lot more resilient than their lean profile would suggest.

ASF Quayside post is available in cast iron, steel and stainless steel. On this project stainless steel was used with a 4 rail set up. The project included not only straight runs, but it took in some complicated topography and a Norwegian Gate that was a very difficult manufacture, but which looked and worked great in the end

Clement have replaced hundreds of industrial style steel windows at the newly restored Maple Building in Kentish Town, North West London. Dating back to the 1890s. Acquired recently by The Linton Group who have turned the old converted warehouse into five floors of luxury apartments and penthouses. Interior architects, Gordon-Duff & Linton insisted upon a high specification throughout, focusing on strong acoustic and design performance. Clement W40 steel windows were the perfect choice, complementing the cosy, well-lit interiors that are a feature of the building, as well as offering superb quality and an impeccable match to the original fenestration.

A leading Brighton veterinary practice has specified made to measure stainless steel sinktops from GEC Anderson for its new clinic. Combining durability and easy maintenance with an aseptic surface, the sinktops give Coastway Veterinary Group a quality solution to a key requirement in specialist areas. GEC Anderson supplied five sinktops in satin stainless steel for the new clinic at Freshfield Way, which provides treatment for many of the city’s pets.Coastway needed the sinktops for the new premises which replace its original Kemp Town surgery, at nearby Montague Place. Founder and senior partner Tony Cowie says: “We chose GEC Anderson sinks at the recommendation of our architect who well knows the abuse that routine veterinary work can dish out on the unsuspecting sink. We wanted something resilient and hard wearing for our new showcase clinic. The Freshfield site is the first where we have had no design constraints. It was a huge industrial shell unit, in which we could design the ideal practice in terms of ergonomics, health and safety and the ever present clinical imperatives. With GEC Anderson we had the opportunity to have sinks made to our bespoke specifications – and ‘man’ enough to cope with what we will throw at them.”Specialist veterinary architect Norman Ray, who has designed all Coastway’s clinics, says he has specified GEC Anderson products for 15 years. “They are good, solid products, and ideal for veterinary surgeries. GEC Anderson can manufacture virtually anything and they have an excellent advisory service.”GEC Anderson provided five satin stainless steel sinktops in three configurations, all with water retaining edges and integral bowls with basket strainer wastes and overflow fittings. The 1,215 x 600mm sinktop for the consulting room hand wash has two bowls, each 500 x 400 x 190mm; the front edge is 30mm high, while side and rear edges are 50mm high. The cat and dog recovery rooms each have 1,000 x 615mm sinktops with 30mm high edges all round and a single 550 x 500 x 240mm bowl. The isolation unit and the education room have identical 450 x 500mm sinktops with 30mm high edges and a 300 x 344 x 175mm bowl.Coastway opened its first Brighton surgery at Montague Place in 1974, and the group now has five clinics between Shoreham and Rottingdean. Tony Cowie says relocating its Montague Place clinic to Freshfield Way provides improved facilities for staff, patients, and owners. These include separate cat and dog areas, bespoke hospitalisation and intensive care facilities, a specialist referral centre and a new home for the group’s 24 hour emergency surgery. “The move also allows us to extend our veterinary nurse training programme, holding seminars and courses on the premises. We’ve waited several years to make this move, ensuring that the new position, building and facilities were worth the wait,” he says.Martin Tye, GEC Anderson Managing Director, says the new Brighton clinic highlights the role that quality stainless steel products can play in modern veterinary, medical and dental facilities. “Stainless steel is extremely durable and it can be maintained to high standards of hygiene with minimal effort. It is impervious to most chemicals and is available in a special acid resistant grade for special applications.”

Formally known as the Olympic stadium, this structure was constructed in the Stratford district of London for the London 2012 Olympics. After the Olympics, redevelopment of the stadium began, including installation of the new floodlights in March 2015. The 60,000 capacity stadium is now home of West Ham United.The project involved working with 2 different clients on the same project – Populous (Global stadium developers) and Buro Happold (consulting engineers) for 14 no lighting puddles for the London stadium. The driver for the use of composites was seeking a way to reduce the weight at the end of what was then the largest cantilever roof section – so weight at the end was more critical than normal. We also supplied 2000m² of steel gratings to the same project – demonstrating how we can identify the most suitable material for each application.The material used was Flowdeck solid top 41mm deep in RAL 7043. Flowdeck is resin moulded with a 3mm thick applied plate on top of a 38mm thick standard panel. It was fabricated at our facility in Middlesbrough with each one delivered on a phase-by-phase basis to a tight programme.

Excellent contrasting setting for a local Public House and Restaurant. Carefully chosen was this Traditional Textures pre-coated Aluminium finished in Zinc Green presenting a zinc grain within the paint surface. No need to wait for any weathering as you do with any natural finish metals as we can provide the look you need from day one which sits very well within its natural surroundings.

There was no brief other than something exceptional. This project is one that has been designed by the home owner and has been executed with so many different details that this traditional malleable aluminium allows. The Traditional Textures aluminium range of finishes have all been used with tapered panels, curved panels, hidden gutters and a variety of different width panels. This product can be used in just the same way zinc and copper is used and offers a weathered look from day one using its textured finishes.This property is a real show house and shouts “WHY NOT”

The self-build project is situated in the small coastal village of Borth and stands prominent on the cliff overlooking three miles of gently shelving golden sand. The private dwelling offers a breath-taking vantage point for the homeowners achieved by Keystones carefully considered bespoke bow lintel design for a 13.7m curved span panoramic living room window on the upper floor.ChallengeKeystone’s technical team appreciates the importance of personalisation and were tasked with turning the clients dream vision for the family home into a reality. The unique structure would require a continuous irregular lintel to accommodate the variations of internal and external curves above each opening for the perimeter of the living room.The lintel was designed to incorporate the distinct feature window which will add interest to the room and soften the space where light would enter.SolutionKeystone’s technical engineer was tasked with creating a structural steel solution capable of accommodating the curved structure and unusual loading conditions – tailor made to suit the lifestyle requirements of the client.The engineer worked closely with the client to develop the lintel for the complex curved opening and provided comprehensive technical support from design through to installation. This included a site visit to ensure all measurements were accurate with minimal tolerance. For buildability and logistical purposes, the 13.7m bespoke bow lintel was delivered as five separate components and fixed together on site.The innovative and intelligent design fitted and aligned perfectly with the contours of the building and achieved the desired continual curved opening bringing a sense of flow and energy to the room. Keystone lintels also provide special lintels in stainless steel to prevent corrosion in buildings that are subjected to aggressive environmental conditions, typically in coastal locations within 500m of the shoreline.Testimonial“I was unsure if the vision I had for this project was even possible, but Keystone’s team of engineers offered a creative and effective solution, ensuring an incredibly personalised touch to the building.”Lee JenkinsSelf-builder

The creation of an ultra-modern Teaching Building as a new core to a long established school in Oxfordshire, has included the installation of custom designed and manufactured stainless steel sinks, worktops and splashbacks and other units from GEC Anderson for several of the different technical spaces.The Tudor Hall School, originally founded in 1850 by the Rev TW and Mrs Todd at a site in Salisbury, has been at its present location at Wykham Park in Banbury since World War II, while the past decade has seen some £15 million invested in ensuring the Independent Girls Boarding and Day School offers the best possible facilities.The Birmingham office of ADP Architects has been responsible for the design work on this latest project, while Clegg Construction Ltd of Nottingham was the main contractor carrying out the work. Acting as a specialist sub-contractor, GEC Anderson conducted site visits and liaised with the project team in order to ensure its custom fabrications met the schools’ health & safety as well as technical and teaching requirements. The manufacturer also worked closely with Tudor Hall’s Bursar, Neil Farquhar to ensure its site installation visits in no way interfered with the academic activities as lessons continued throughout normal term time. One of the architects involved with the project from early on commented: “The GEC Anderson sinks, work-surfaces and other fabrications were specified for the Food Technology Area as well as units for the Ceramics and Textiles rooms. The new centre opened on schedule last Easter in time for the start of the 2018 summer term and everyone involved has been pleased with the results.”A spokesperson for Tudor Hall added: “The new Teaching Centre is the largest and most ambitious addition to Tudor Hall facilities to date and sits at the heart of the school site. Designed to provide teaching spaces for the core subjects of Mathematics and English and specialist classrooms for the creative arts, the Teaching Centre transforms the teaching provision which Tudor Hall offers and we are delighted to have it operative, and we are already witnessing its impact.” Since its formation in 1962, GEC Anderson has built its reputation for the supply of top end stainless steel sinks and sanitaryware on a combination of innovative design, top quality materials and expert craftsmanship. In addition to the company’s Decimetric system of cabinets, sinks, drainers and other equipment - widely specified for sectors including health and catering – it is able to create custom engineered solutions to exactly fit any space or specification.

Franke Sissons were thrilled to be chosen to supply their stainless steel sanitaryware products on the recent extension to Serlby Park Academy in Doncaster. Four of Franke Sissons Centinel drinking fountains & six stainless steel circular washtroughs were supplied. “We use Franke Sissons products regularly on our projects, as not only are we guaranteed the highest quality, but products are available in a short lead time. The washtroughs for this project were supplied with taps and soap dispensers and were delivered fully assembled, saving us precious time to fit on site” Commented Robert Bailey from William Bailey Ltd.

Leading stainless steel specialist, GEC Anderson limited, have released details of an exciting new ‘wet zone’ concept. Available now, the new wet zone option enables specifiers to include a pressed recess anywhere within the stainless steel worktop area. Typically, the recess would be formed around sink bowl(s) but it can also be used to create lowered areas for other applications. For example, to locate chopping boards or to act as a general catchment area. The pressed recess detail is 3mm deep and can be formed in any size and position. It has a minimum radius of 10mm.

Mirrors from the wide range of stainless steel products offered by GEC Anderson have been included within a striking new facility developed for the young people of East Manchester, enhancing both the aesthetics and the safe operation of the building. The £6.6milion HideOut Youth Zone, built by Domis Construction on the old Gorston baths site in the Hyde district of the city, is based upon the successful OnSide Youth Zones 21st Century Youth Facility Model. The development of the centre, which is expected to attract some 1,600 young people each week, was supported by local philanthropist, Fred Done, and Manchester City Council.  In total, 16 of the 1000 x 500 mm highly polished, 1mm thick stainless steel mirrors were supplied for both the general and accessible washroom areas. Widely used in public toilets and sports facilities, the mirrors’ tough, unbreakable nature will both enhance long term maintenance implications and negate the injury risk presented by glass alternatives. Lisa McFarlane, a Director at the Manchester based lead consultants, Seven Architecture, commented: “We were keen to design a truly iconic building for the young people of East Manchester; to give them a real sense of pride and ownership. It’s fantastic to see so much support for the scheme. This is the second Youth Zone we have been involved in designing in the region, with another due to get under way soon in Warrington.  With this being a design and build project, the final specification lies with the main contractor, but stainless steel was preferred for the mirrors as a health and safety consideration, basically being a robust but attractive material.”Since its formation in 1962, GEC Anderson has built its reputation for the supply of top end stainless steel sinks and sanitaryware on a combination of innovative design, top quality materials and expert craftsmanship. In addition to the company’s Decimetric system of cabinets, sinks, drainers and other equipment - widely specified for sectors including health and catering - the company’s custom engineered solutions have been selected for some of the country’s top sports, entertainment and leisure destinations. Adam Farricker, Chief Executive of HideOut Youth Zone expressed his enthusiasm for the outcome saying: “A huge thank you to all of HideOut’s supporters for believing in this charity and for having the vision and determination to make it happen for Manchester’s young people. Their generous support will make a huge difference to the lives of young people and the wider community in East Manchester.”

A conversion project in Somerset has utilised a number of products from Catnic to provide practical and sustainable living accommodation, suitable for retirement. Coates Farm has employed Catnic's® Urban standing seam roofing and cladding system as well as Catnic lintels to ensure the environmental impact of the building is kept to a minimum.Situated in Kittisford, a small picturesque village near Wellington, Coates Farm is owned by Maurice and Penny Stanbury. “We decided, that due to our advancing years, we wanted a practical and sustainable home that would require very little maintenance,” said Maurice. “Having received go-ahead to repurpose an old cow shed, we wanted to ensure that the materials specified would contribute to the building’s eco credentials.”To ensure the work was allowable under permitted development, it was essential that the development was kept within the same building footprint. Working alongside architect Nigel Pearce at Pearce Practice for the planning and design of the conversion, the decision was made to specify Catnic's® Urban standing seam roofing and cladding system.A cost-effective alternative to traditional copper and zinc standing seam roof systems, the Urban system is manufactured to meet all relevant legislation, including load bearing for wind speed in accordance with EN 1991-4 and weather tightness in accordance with BS 5534 Parts 1 and 2. Furthermore, helping to meet requirements for sustainable building solutions – Urban is BRE Green Guide Rated ‘A’ and at end of life – the panels are 100% recyclable.“Maurice came to us with an idea that he wanted something different for the roof that would improve the eco footprint of the building whilst being aesthetically pleasing on the eye,” said Nigel Pearce.“Because of the permitted development, we were restricted by the low roof pitch. As we couldn’t specify slate or tiles, we remembered that we had used Catnic® Urban on a recent conversion and found it to be a great option; not only could it accommodate the low pitch at Coates Farm, but it also matched the contemporary look and feel that Maurice was looking for,” added Nigel.Initially to be specified for only the flat section of the roof, it was decided that Catnic® Urban would be utilised for the complete roof due to its crisp lines and strong aesthetics.Maurice Stanbury said, “During the initial specification, we were really happy with the service received from Catnic. Having decided upon Catnic® Urban, we began exploring the possibility of getting our lintels from them too. Alongside standard lintels, we required a bespoke corner lintel to ensure we could match the intended design of the building. We submitted technical drawings to Catnic and the technical team made the process very easy.”Whilst Maurice project managed the redevelopment, the installation was undertaken by Kevin and Ashley Drew – local builders known to the Stanbury’s. After specification, but prior to ordering Urban, it was decided that Maurice and Ashley would attend an Urban training day at Catnic’s training centre in Caerphilly, to learn how to correctly install the standing seam roofing system.During the course, Ashley and Maurice spoke with Catnic’s Technical Director Richard Price, who then visited the site personally to measure up and give guidance to apply what they had learnt in Caerphilly into practice.Throughout the conversion, Kevin and Ashley Drew worked closely with Catnic to guarantee the successful delivery of the project. Using Catnic’s Lintel Advanced Scheduling System (CLASS) ensured that they could adopt a ‘just in time’ approach to deliveries.“Having ordered both lintels and Urban from Catnic we were able to delay the delivery of the system until we were ready to install it,” said Kevin Drew.“We found the system incredibly easy to work with – particularly as this was our first experience of Urban - managing to install it quickly between the two of us,” added Kevin.“We are thrilled with the end result, and we now have the property we had always dreamed of having,” concluded Maurice Stanbury. “Catnic made the process incredibly easy from start to finish, and with Catnic® Urban we are safe in the knowledge that the system will now require minimal maintenance.”

Catnic's lintels have given definition to Beaumont, a stunning Country and Coast Homes development of 6 large houses in Highcroft, Exeter. Approximately 60 1.25inch CX cavity lintels were supplied, which support the sharp, unusual shape of the architect-designed buildings, were chosen for their strength, reliability and thermal capabilities.The lintels support the exterior window and door features; special corner lintels support the external over-eaves, while large window openings elegantly contour the shape of each house. Chosen specifically to support the specialist architectural features of the development, offering both the structural and thermal performance required for the building envelopes.Constructed using the traditional brick and block method, the building facades were then finished with a white K-render to all external elevations.Consistent with Country and Coast Homes' portfolio of luxury contemporary homes, the development features superior quality fixtures inside and out. As a brand synonymous with quality in the construction industry, Catnic reflects this too. County and Coast Homes focuses on exceptional attention to detail, it only uses the most reliable and durable products in the construction of its homes. Chris Dodge at County and Coast Homes said: "We have been using Catnic Lintels for over 10 years, they are by far the best. A superbly well organised company who offer exemplary service, their lintels are extremely capable and well suited to our high quality homes."Country and Coast Homes prides itself on a high level of sustainability in each development. Catnic lintels surpassed the energy targets in this particular development by helping deliver the efficiency required to achieve a B on the EPC rating.

Lorton Park development has been designed and built with energy and water conservation in mind. With a particular importance placed on the selection and quality of the materials used, Catnic’s innovative TBL was specified for all 46 luxury properties.BRE certified, the Catnic TBL range delivers industry leading linear thermal transmittance Psi values of 0.02 to 0.05 W/mK and safe working loads in line with Catnic’s existing Cavity wall lintels.Chris Watts, Sales Manager at Jewson, worked with Mr Hidari on the product specification,“After comparing different lintels on the market it became clear that Catnic TBL’s were best suited to the specific project requirements.“Due to the medium density concrete blocks being used onsite, AKI Ltd needed a product that could meet its thermal performance requirements and easily achieve the build’s load requirements – the composite design of the TBL made it the perfect choice.”The specifically designed flat top of Catnic’s Thermally Broken Lintel provides a simple, consistent junction with the cavity wall insulation. This removes the reliance on site workmanship, reducing the risk of a ‘performance gap’. There are also no brackets connecting the inner and outer leaf of the lintel and therefore there are no additional point thermal bridges that need to be considered.The large scale development project also benefited from Catnic Lintel Advance Scheduling System (CLASS). Through the fully comprehensive scheduling service, Catnic’s expert team created a concise document which detailed lintel descriptions, price, delivery time and a guaranteed structural accuracy.“This has been a huge, complex project and we needed a product that could deliver on the specific structural and thermal requirements,” commented Mr Hidari. “As the only lintel on the market with a complete thermal break, it seemed like the ideal product. I was particularly impressed by the Catnic team who provided us with a full design and specification for the entire development.”For further information on Catnic’s Thermally Broken Lintel range, please visit https://catnic.com/products/lintels/thermally-broken-lintels/overview