"fine art pictures prints frames etc"

Laboratory taps, laboratory water taps, laboratory gas taps……they all have handwheels and for the keen eyed amongst us those handwheels have coloured indices on them. …..but what do they mean?Dead simply they tell the laboratory tap user what service is being offered. This could range from anything from hot and cold potable water to the more funky special waters (Demineralised, deionised) and various gas services found in the laboratory; gases such as Argon, Helium, Nitrogen etc which is what would you expect in laboratory fume cupboards and reagent shelving.The colouring is governed by the DIN EN 13792 which covers laboratory taps, this standard is a worldwide initiative so whether you’re in Switzerland, Hong Kong or elsewhere it doesn’t matter the service from the laboratory tap will always reference the same service!

HR Owen NEW Hatfield Showroom.H.R. Owen has recently completed its multi-brand dealership in Hatfield.The site houses Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati.The most ambitious new site in H.R. Owen’s 90-year history includes five showrooms, 110,000 sq/ft, and a line-up of the world’s most sought-after luxury and performance cars.H.R. Owen has recently completed its multi-brand dealership in Hatfield.The site houses Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati.The most ambitious new site in H.R. Owen’s 90-year history includes five showrooms, 110,000 sq/ft, and a line-up of the world’s most sought-after luxury and performance cars.Ken Choo, H.R. Owen CEO, said: “Since H.R. Owen was founded in 1932 with just a single Bentley and Rolls-Royce showroom, the brand has continued to expand on its exemplary reputation for the finest cars and the finest customer service. The latest stage in this expansion first began in 2013 with the takeover by the Berjaya Group, and will enter its next phase with the construction of this flagship site in Hatfield; bringing to life the vision of our Chairman, Vincent Tan.”HR Owen’s new Hatfield dealership site is comprised of an east complex housing four car showrooms, along with two workshops and offices each surrounding a shared mall area. The West portion of the site house one further car showroom on the ground and first floors.The new Bentley showroom’s creation comes as HR Owen’s Bentley Surrey completes its move into an all-new showroom and aftersales site, while the group’s central London Jack Barclay showroom was treated to a multi-million-pound renovation in 2018.Lamborghini Hatfield sits alongside Lamborghini London, Lamborghini Manchester and Lamborghini Pangbourne in the HR Owen line-up, the latter of which was thoroughly renovated in 2019.The group operates one of just two Bugatti sales operations in Britain, was awarded UK Dealer of the Year by Aston Martin in 2020, Global Dealer of the Year by Rolls-Royce in 2018, Global Dealer of the Year by Ferrari in 2016 and its showrooms regularly rank among the most successful in the world for their parent brands.Jack Barclay Service Centre in Wandsworth also holds a Royal Warrant for Service and Repair of Her Majesty The Queen’s Motor VehiclesSoundtect’s Harmony Freestyle™ Panels range are architecturally inspired and can be used to create stunning, utterly modern wall and ceiling applications offering bespoke arrangements incorporating the Freestyle standard range and Timba wood effect range of colours. Slatted 25mm width x 20mm depth battens are prefixed to a 10mm spacing to a backing felt which is super fine allowing easy installation on curved and straight surfaces alike. Other sized slats and spacing available on requestWith up to 70% recycled content and finely tuned reverberation and sound control, Freestyle™ is the natural choice for bespoke designs that challenge the status quo. Available in a any configuration from the 24 Freestyle colour and a Timba print range of finishes too. Each panel can be manufactured in a maximum 2400 x 1200 and can be installed on the walls or ceiling to create a harmonious finish with superb sound control propertiesDeveloped by London-based Soundtect®, Freestyle™ panels are built to exacting quality and use all of Soundtect’s pioneering acoustic know-how.Environmentally friendly and recyclable, Freestyle™ Acoustic Panels are ideal for projects when there is an eco-conscious consideration to be made as our Products are Green Tag Certified.Products used: Freestyle. Harmony

H.R. Owen has recently completed its multi-brand dealership in Hatfield.The site houses Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati.The most ambitious new site in H.R. Owen’s 90-year history includes five showrooms, 110,000 sq/ft, and a line-up of the world’s most sought-after luxury and performance cars.H.R. Owen has recently completed its multi-brand dealership in Hatfield.The site houses Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati.The most ambitious new site in H.R. Owen’s 90-year history includes five showrooms, 110,000 sq/ft, and a line-up of the world’s most sought-after luxury and performance cars.Ken Choo, H.R. Owen CEO, said: “Since H.R. Owen was founded in 1932 with just a single Bentley and Rolls-Royce showroom, the brand has continued to expand on its exemplary reputation for the finest cars and the finest customer service. The latest stage in this expansion first began in 2013 with the takeover by the Berjaya Group, and will enter its next phase with the construction of this flagship site in Hatfield; bringing to life the vision of our Chairman, Vincent Tan.”HR Owen’s new Hatfield dealership site is comprised of an east complex housing four car showrooms, along with two workshops and offices each surrounding a shared mall area. The West portion of the site house one further car showroom on the ground and first floors.The new Bentley showroom’s creation comes as HR Owen’s Bentley Surrey completes its move into an all-new showroom and aftersales site, while the group’s central London Jack Barclay showroom was treated to a multi-million-pound renovation in 2018.Lamborghini Hatfield sits alongside Lamborghini London, Lamborghini Manchester and Lamborghini Pangbourne in the HR Owen line-up, the latter of which was thoroughly renovated in 2019.The group operates one of just two Bugatti sales operations in Britain, was awarded UK Dealer of the Year by Aston Martin in 2020, Global Dealer of the Year by Rolls-Royce in 2018, Global Dealer of the Year by Ferrari in 2016 and its showrooms regularly rank among the most successful in the world for their parent brands.Jack Barclay Service Centre in Wandsworth also holds a Royal Warrant for Service and Repair of Her Majesty The Queen’s Motor VehiclesSoundtect’s Harmony Freestyle™ Panels range are architecturally inspired and can be used to create stunning, utterly modern wall and ceiling applications offering bespoke arrangements incorporating the Freestyle standard range and Timba wood effect range of colours. Slatted 25mm width x 20mm depth battens are prefixed to a 10mm spacing to a backing felt which is super fine allowing easy installation on curved and straight surfaces alike. Other sized slats and spacing available on requestWith up to 70% recycled content and finely tuned reverberation and sound control, Freestyle™ is the natural choice for bespoke designs that challenge the status quo. Available in a any configuration from the 24 Freestyle colour and a Timba print range of finishes too. Each panel can be manufactured in a maximum 2400 x 1200 and can be installed on the walls or ceiling to create a harmonious finish with superb sound control propertiesDeveloped by London-based Soundtect®, Freestyle™ panels are built to exacting quality and use all of Soundtect’s pioneering acoustic know-how.Environmentally friendly and recyclable, Freestyle™ Acoustic Panels are ideal for projects when there is an eco-concious consideration to be made as our Products are Green Tag Certified.Products used: Freestyle. Harmony

Ashton Under Lyne - Town Centre Public Realm (2000m2)Project Description: Ashton Under Lyne’s town centre was transformed with £10.8m of levelling up funding. A transformational & bold project ensuring Ashton’s historic market square is future proofed and fit for modern market needs. New paving means the square is accessible and safe for all visitors and residents. Larsen Streetscape paving mortar system is the preferred option for laying paving. Product Showcase: Larsen Streetscape paving mortar system is a collection of high-performance mortars for the construction of pavements. The products are specifically formulated to exceed performance characteristics, as set out in BS 7533. Products used:            ·  FBC Eco Fine Bedding Concrete - Ideal for pavements constructed with natural stone, concrete & clay paving units. ·  PS Eco Priming Slurry - Applied to the underside of all paving units to create an exceptional bond to FBC Eco Fine Bedding Concrete. ·  FJM Eco Flowable Jointing Mortar - Filled the joints to complete the installation. Rapid setting with high early strength gain, FJM Eco can be opened to foot traffic in one hour.               ·  EM Epoxy Mortar - A three-part pack solvent-free epoxy resin mortar - perfectly suited for areas where exceptional strength and bond are required. For further information or technical data sheets on the Larsen Streetscape product range, please visit www.larsenbuildingproducts.com. 

This eye catching outdoor A5000 was installed with access the care homes patio area, ensuring safe and secure accessibility for residents and staff. The patio has outdoor seating where residents are regularly served afternoon tea, and meals when the weather is fine. The glazed shaft panels allow for great views of the landscaped grounds when travelling in the lift. The staff and residents enjoy many activities outdoors, including their annual summer fair and barbeques, so a lift was essential for ensuring that everyone has easy access to the patio and gardens.

The outer walls were constructed using blockwork and then rendered using KEIM Universal Render, which is an extremely flexible render system, negating the needs for expansion joints which would look unsightly on the impressive building. The render was then painted using KEIM Soldalit which combines durability with breathability, ensuring the system will last for many years. The swimming pools ceilings were also plastered using KEIM Universal Render but the fine version for a smooth finish, and decorated with KEIM Soldalit to give a high performance finish in such a humid environment.

In Vlaardingen Museum, the Netherlands, old meets new. The use of concrete, aluminium and glass creates a powerful sense of open space and transparency. The many level changes and loft-like spaces meant it was important to find a balustrade solution unobstructed by a conventional handrail or metal grip. The Easy Glass Pro structural glass balustrade offered the ability to make fine adjustments to the positioning of each glass panel from the installation side – invaluable when being installed on the various sections of finished concrete flooring levels.

A bespoke up and over garage door designed and manufactured by Rundum Meir has brought 21st century functionality, access and security to a Grade II listed property in Belgravia. One objective of the renovation project sought to improve access to the garage, which faces a desirable residential street close to Eaton Square Gardens. The transformation had to be done in a way that was sympathetic to the local architecture and compliant with the house’s listed status. The garage doors of the properties lining this cobblestone street are fine examples of the 19th century coach house tradition.

Part of the University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Princess Anne Hospital opened in 1981 and is known as a centre of excellence for maternity care. Providing specialist care for women during pregnancy, as well as genetics and breast screening.Project Year: 2023Product: ASSA ABLOY SL500 FrameArchitect: Strata DesignClient: West End ConstructionProject Background: During the first wave of Covid, a piece of art named 'Game Changer' appeared at Southampton Hospital, this was a gift from Banksy to thank the 14000 staff members, as well as honour the work of NHS workers everywhere. The canvas was auctioned to raise money for NHS charities and organisations, raising a total £16.8m.Part of these funds have been used to improve the facilities, and this is where Landscape Architects Strata Design and West End Construction were engaged, to design and build a rooftop oasis for all the hospital staff, to have a place to enjoy and unwind.Solution: Working collaboratively and having surveyed the site where a window was to be turned into a door, FAAC Entrance Solutions proposed a framed SL500 bi-parting sliding door, in order to both maximise the opening width as well as keep the natural light into the building. Being a staff restricted area, access control was also a must, so this was integrated with existing staff passes to facilitate swipe access and with our QFlow traffic light system which regulates occupancy. The SL500’s framed system is a robust resilient door, making it perfect to manage high volumes of traffic as well Southampton coastal wind loads. Additionally, with its thermally broken profiles, additional tight-fitting brushes, it will contribute to keeping energy costs down in comparison to slimmer or manual door entrances.For more information or assistance with any project, please contact enquiries.esuk@faactechnologies.com where we can provide expert guidance and detailed documentation.

The Project Perton First School has been open for over 40 years and the infant washroom facilities are in need of modernisation.The school prides itself its family ethos and has seen generations of families come the doors.The ChallengePropose a system with children of nursery age in mind. Consider the height of the doors & partitions.Peardrop range is not supported by an overhead rail and the frontage is fixed at the floor and gable walls only.Flooring substate needs to be at lease 60mm thick and stable to ensure a secure fixing point at the base of the foot.Deliver a non-standard laminate to enhance the systems aesthetics. The SolutionExcelsior, working alongside G Evans and Entrust, are excited to have installed our Harlequin Select Range at Perton First School. The school chose our Peardrop Range with low level accessible doors and magnetic locks, perfect for the classroom environment. The cubicles doors were finished in our vibrant Lolly Pop Digital Print & the area was surveyed to ensure suitable fixing points.Harlequin Peardrop is the ideal system for children of nursery age, the system is self-supporting on an aluminium leg; the legs ability to perform is reliant of the strength of the floor substrate which in this case proved suitable, enabling the client to proceed with this infant friendly system.The full system is professionally manufactured with children in mind providing easily accessible doors for children whilst ensuring efficient dimensions for adults to supervise.SpecificationProduct Range: Harlequin Select HPLDoors: 18mm High Pressure Laminate, Lolly Pop Digital PrintPilaster: Polyrey C018 ChardonPartition: 18mm High Pressure Laminate, Polyrey C018 ChardonIronmongery: SBAA 

Forbo Flooring Systems’ impressive digital printing capabilities gave Gilltown the scope to have some real fun with the interior design of new student accommodation in Newcastle, resulting in a scheme like no other – all while providing the performance properties required for a heavily used building.“The flooring played a key role within this project and we were determined to opt for floor coverings that have rarely been seen in this kind of environment before. After working with Forbo on earlier projects, we knew it’s wide range of high-end and quality products, along with its impressive bespoke design capabilities would help us to achieve this.” - James Gillespie, Project manager.

Knauf integral in Warwick Hall development.The Knauf team has played a significant role in the  specification and design process during recent  construction at one of the oldest schools in England, working alongside award winning Associated Architects to produce a masterclass in acoustic  performance.The site consisted of an existing hall, which was used for assemblies, performances and functions. This hall was built in the 1960s and suffered from a series of failings which impacted its flexibility and usefulness.The proposal for the Warwick Hall was an opportunity to build a physical embodiment of Warwick School’s  academic excellence, prosperity and ambition, which saw the existing school hall stripped back to its structural frame and heavily modified to provide a state-of-the-art, revitalised and flexible school hall with  a large double height entrance foyer, two performance  studios and other ancillary spaces. The brief was given to the team at Associated Architects and they quickly relied on the quality of materials and service provided by Knauf.

Nestled in the heart of London's prestigious Mayfair district.80 New Bond Street stands as a beacon of elegance and luxury. This iconic address is renowned for its exclusive boutiques, high-end galleries, and renowned auction houses, making it a coveted destination for discerning shoppers and art enthusiasts alike. With its historic architecture and contemporary allure, 80 New Bond Street encapsulates the essence of sophistication, offering a unique blend of heritage and modernity.Completed in 2024, it has created new office spaces and has incorporated a sophisticated, spacious reception area.Throughout the development, our flagship product Quadra + was used. It is perfect for concealing fire-rated riser doors, access panels, and internal doors in corridors, landings, and other access areas; Quadra+ is supplied as an integral, four-sided frame and door system, pre-constructed to form a single robust unit. Ideal for hidden commercial access solutions, Quadra+ is designed and manufactured to the highest standards.

‘Autobarn’ is an unusual build comprising an elegant five-bay garage and accompanying workshop sitting within the grounds of a Grade-II listed 18th-century home in Somerset.Designed by Bindloss Dawes Architects, the brief was to create a garage with an adjoining workshop to house the client’s classic car collection. The finished result is an aesthetically beautiful building with its deceptively simple wooden barn-themed styling using agricultural materials such as concrete and recycled wood under a zinc roof. With surfaces comprising steel, timber and polished concrete floor, the architects incorporated Troldtekt acoustic panels to clad both the walls and ceilings between the steel frames for sound absorption and to combat the issue of reverberating noise.The added advantage of having services hidden behind the white panelling means the final result is a stunning simplistic and minimalist design allowing the classic cars to be the focus of attention and transforming the space into more of a gallery than a traditional garage.Troldtekt acoustic panels are available in a variety of different surfaces and colours and combine sound absorption with a tactile surface. With an expected life cycle of at least 50 years and resistance to humidity and impact, they are available in various sizes and four grades, from extreme fine to coarse. The panels can be left untreated or painted in almost any RAL colour. Depending on the panel specified, reaction to fire is classed in accordance with EN 13501 as B-s1,d0 or A2-s1,d0 respectively. Founded on the Cradle-to-Cradle design concept and having attained Gold certification, Troldtekt wood wool acoustic panels are manufactured using wood from certified forests (PEFC™ and FSC®C115450) and can contribute positively to a building’s BREEAM, DGNB or LEED points. 

Harlequin has worked with Michael Nunn and William Trevitt, founders of the BalletBoyz, on a number of projects, providing Harlequin floors for their studios, tours and film productions. The BalletBoyz studios, based in Kingston Upon Thames, have two studios with Harlequin Activity sprung floor and Harlequin Cascade vinyl. The BalletBoyz rehearse for their tours there as well as hosting workshops including Parkinson's CAN Dance. In 2019 Michael and William directed the film Romeo and Juliet: Beyond Words where all performers, featuring dancers from the Royal Ballet, danced on printed Harlequin Cascade vinyl and Harlequin Liberty sprung floor panels. When touring, the BalletBoyz have danced on Harlequin Studio and Harlequin Reversible vinyl. 

McL Projects contacted us on behalf of Merlin Entertainment regarding their new ‘Cbeebies Land’ to be located within the Alton Towers resort.They required 4 shelters to be positioned in various locations within the new attraction. Impressive structures were required for parents with small children in buggies to be able to shelter from both sun and rain.The canopies also needed to be bright in colour and have branding printed onto them to be in keeping with the Cbeebies theme. After visiting the attraction we offered our Kite tensile canopies that have a stylish Hypar shape, and with only 1 column reduces any obstacles below the canopy.These colourful, vibrant canopies take price of place within this exciting new attraction.

Designing distinctive and confident pieces inspired by vintage fashions, RIXO has become a cult British brand. So when it came to fitting out its latest high street store in London’s trendy Carnaby Street, founders Henrietta Rix and Orlagh McCloskey wanted an individual look with a nod to past decades that would also allow the personality of their hand-printed clothing ranges to shine.Appointing design studio Cúpla to create an empowering interior, RIXO was keen to stay true to their sustainability commitment by choosing British designs and family run suppliers. In line with their philosophy of designing one-off pieces that will become tomorrow’s classics, the aim was to create a welcoming environment and a memorable personalised experience.

Studio facilities for a community of hardworking contemporary artists need to be durable and easy to maintain yet aesthetically pleasing, so architects Caruso St John specified made-to-measure stainless steel sinktops from GEC Anderson as part of the £2.25 million redevelopment of the Spike Island art complex on Bristol’s harbourside. GEC Anderson stainless steel sinktops were also specified for the IT suite tea-point, artists’ and visitors’ toilets and baby-change areas. Spike Island, a former tea packing warehouse, has housed local artists’ studios since the 1990s when it replaced the earlier Artspace venture. It has grown to become a national centre for the research and development of contemporary visual arts – including painting, sculpture and print-making – with 70 affordable long-let studios and a series of spaces for more commercial cultural industries, such as design studios. The redevelopment, just completed, includes a welcoming entrance, while the new café is Spike Island’s first shared social space. In addition, studio spaces have been improved and the vast exhibition galleries are among the UK’s most impressive. Caruso St John project architect Rod Heyes says: “When it came to specifying the big washing out sinks, we needed something reliable that would still clean up and look good after the artists had poured plaster, paint and various chemicals over them. We have used GEC Anderson products on several other projects and they are our default supplier for stainless steel. We are impressed by the quality of their products as well as their design detailing.”GEC Anderson Managing Director Martin Tye says “Quality stainless steel is a highly versatile material that can be deployed very effectively in applications across the spectrum from workshops to designer kitchens. Stainless steel is also ultimately durable and hygienic. “Spike Island may prove to be one of the tougher environments for GEC Anderson sinks, but with a modest amount of care these sinktops will still perform well and look good after many years.”With creativity uppermost in the minds of Spike Island’s tenants, their surrounding facilities and those also provided for the visiting public were selected for functionality, aesthetics and durability. The Spike Island specification includes made-to-measure stainless steel sinktops all with integrally welded bowls. Within the metal work space, extra large Le70 (700 x 500 x 300mm) bowls, were specified. The baby-change area includes an 800mm wide surface. All sinktops are made from satin finish domestic grade stainless steel.

Recently we have received a review from a customer that used Polytrol to revive their Ifor Williams horsebox.Andy was looking to revive the faded colour of his Ifor Williams horsebox and decided to try a sample of our Polytrol colour restorer. He even supplied us with before and after images so we can see how well it worked.Here’s what Andy had to say;I have been an Engineer all my life and have used many products that purport to do unequalled repair or unrivalled transformations. But I cannot remember ever being so impressed with a product.After using the sample pot of Polytrol colour restorer I thought to take some pictures of the project. The whole trailer was thoroughly cleaned with a pressure washer along with the roof and fibre glass front roof panel. Mould and algae were removed with a scrubbing brush and Cillit Bang mould remover.The side panels are painted flat aluminium sheet which had faded quite considerably over the years. Their appearance was also marred by a previous owner putting transfers on them, which I removed only to discover a darker silhouette, which further spoiled its appearance.To the painted panels, I applied Polytrol liberally with a brush and then left for 15 Mins. After this, I then used a cloth soaked with Polytrol but with excess squeezed out, to smooth out the excess on the surface and provide an even light coating to dry. I treated the plastic mudguards the same way with fabulous results.For the “dimple” surfaced aluminium roof and front panel, I found a Scotchbrite pad and soaked it with Polytrol. I then wiped it off once again with a saturated cloth and left it to dry.I applied the Polytrol on a pleasant day with no excessive sunshine and all was touch dry within 2 hours. By the following day it was perfectly dry and ready for new OEM Decals.The pictures show it all, what an outstanding transformation.

Midland Metropolitan University Hospital Case StudyDemonstrating Products That Perform!Project Description:Nestled between Sandwell and West Birmingham, the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital is poised to become the centre of acute and emergency care at our Trust when it opens in 2024.Midland Met is not just a hospital...situated within a designated regeneration zone, this new hospital build represents not just progress in healthcare but opportunity to revitalise the region. Product Showcase:Used in multiple locations across the project including Level 5 Winter Garden, Larsen Streetscape paving mortar system is a collection of high-performance mortars for the construction of pavements. The preferred option for laying paving, the products are specifically formulated to exceed performance characteristics, as set out in BS 7533. Products used:         FBC Eco Fine Bedding Concrete • Ideal for pavements constructed with natural stone, concrete & clay paving units.PS Eco Priming Slurry• Applied to the underside of all paving units to create an exceptional bond to FBC Eco Fine Bedding Concrete.FJM Eco Flowable Jointing Mortar• Filled the joints to complete the installation. Rapid setting with high early strength gain, FJM Eco can be opened to foot traffic in one hour.3 in 1 Seal Plus• A water-based acrylic hybrid dispersion paving sealer, sand stabiliser and protector suitable for most paving. For further information or technical data sheets on the Larsen Streetscape product range, please visit www.larsenbuildingproducts.com. 

In an ambitious 12-month building project, the property was stripped to its ground-floor walls with a first-floor being completely reconstructed as a spectacular rectangular wooden box, with raw Accoya boards used for external cladding & fine sawn boards for internal decoration. Around 8 cubic metres of Accoya was used for both the external and internal cladding, supplied by Accoya distributor James Latham. Taking just over a year to complete, the renovation project has created a five-bedroom and four bathroom home for the Treasurers and their two children, delivered on a budget of less than £175,000.

Powdertech Wood Finish enables architects to combine the look of wood with the strength and practicality of metal. At the same time, this high performance finish compliments the durability of metal and preserves its appearance for many years. PWF replicates wood with variation in colour, grain density and grain pattern. Instead of depleting timber resources, highly abundant and recyclable aluminium can be used. This is a far better material for forming the finely angled aerofoil blades for solar shading. Powdertech have coated thousands of linear metres of aluminium solar shading in various colours for over 20-years. A2 S1-d0 approved.

One of the most iconic buildings in central London.The building has been reborn hotel and residential complex for highflyers in the financial services sector. Woods Bagot’s scheme for 10 Trinity Square, nicknamed ‘the whirlpool’ after the glass canopy at its centre.10 Trinity Square was commissioned by the Port of London Authority in 1911 through an architectural competition won by Edwin Cooper. Completion of Cooper’s Beaux Arts design was delayed by the First World War (it was finished in 1922).Many of the original interior features were conserved while incorporating the servicing requirements of a modern hotel. As such, plaster ceilings, such as those situated in the south wing of the second floor, are being maintained and the original air vents may be used in the new HVAC strategy.For this development, Selo used the Una doors which are the solution for timber leaf risers. Una utilises a timber door leaf with a concealed metal frame. Made to suit custom sizes, provided as a flat-packed kit prepared for all ironmongery.

At the new head office of award-winning manufacturer, Sandon Global, Style worked with contractor, H Cumberbirch, and architects, 2M2 Studio, to create flexible space by installing two Dorma Hüppe Variflex moveable walls with 46dB acoustic ratings. With both walls benefiting from semi-automatic operation, the acoustic seals are always applied to exactly the right pressure, delivering exceptional privacy during meetings and events. Creating a contemporary yet highly functional feature of the walls, a combination of acoustic absorbing fabric and writeable glass was used as finishes.Style is the exclusive UK partner to Dorma Hüppe offering a complete range of solid and glass moveable walls with manual, semi-automatic and fully automatic operation.“This is a really stylish head office for Sandon Global, and the Variflex moveable walls not only offer adaptable room space, but they also complement the interior design perfectly,” said Andy Gibson, Style’s director for the North.“The 46dB acoustics on both operable walls ensure that meetings, training sessions, workshops and other events can take place undisturbed. By incorporating a pass door between the board room and seminar area, the wall can be left in place without access issues, only opening up the whole area for occasional large-scale events. In contrast, the meeting room wall is likely to be used most days, depending on numbers.”Between the boardroom and the amphitheatre-style seminar room, writable white glass was applied on the seminar side, with a Creation Bauman Astra Fabric acoustic absorption surface in the boardroom.The moveable wall between the meeting rooms has a mix of the same acoustic absorbing fabric and writeable white glass on both sides – perfect for hosting brainstorm sessions and workshops.Sandon Global manufactures anilox rolls and cylinders used in the flexographic, lithographic and metal decoration print industries, worldwide. The new, purpose-built headquarters in Runcorn, Cheshire, provides additional capacity as well as a state-of-the art research and development function.

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

THE PROJECTThe Dallston Junction project features two banks of Stainless Steel 2 mailboxes that have been recessed into the wall to minimise the amount of room taken up by the mailboxes in the area of installation. This particular project required the mailboxes to be recessed into the wall to ensure that the project met building regulations in a main walkway through the project.The banks of mailboxes feature a high-quality Sapele Surround which was provided by ourselves with the mailboxes. The Sapele surround was specified by the client and we worked with a specialist joiner who created this surround. The wood is also used in a central storage area where items can be placed when depositing mail into the boxes (as shown in the photographs), or notices can be used by the management for residents to read etc.The Stainless Steel 2 mailbox both accepts and allows for retrieval of mail at the front of the product. This particular project uses engraved mailboxes that have been infilled with a Jet Black (RAL 9005) contrasting colour for the residents and postal workers to easily identify specific mailboxes.

“ Using the Hi-therm lintel helped us to achieve a pass rating keeping the air test above 5, therefore removing the need for mechanical whole house ventilation/heat recovery, or alternatively other renewable energy products such as PV. Whilst the Hi-therm was not the only resolution, it is a combination of various products and u-values etc. which achieve the pass; Hi-therm helped to achieve the pass in this instance. ”Chris CarrollQuantity SurveyorLagan HomesHi-therm SolutionFull technical support and site-specific Psi value calculations provided.Hi-therm’s performance contributed to the saving of upwards of £1000 per plot on other sustainable technology.Hi-therm does not require any ongoing maintenance, unlike many alternative sustainability solutions.Project DetailsSt. Inns development at Moira, Co. Down, includes detached and semi-detached 3 and 4 bedroom house types and Hi-therm was specified on each home.

Ultrascape's BS 7533 compliant mortar paving system has been used to deliver a modern and stylish forecourt outside Swindon railway station. The redevelopment has transformed what was previously a heavy traffic dominated area, into a prestigious pedestrian focused arrival space which features seating, planting, lighting and a millennium clock. Work was carried out by specialist civil engineering contractor, Britannia Construction and included the installation of 500 tonnes of high quality natural granite and Pennant Sandstone using Ultrascape's Pro-Bed HS fine bedding concrete, Flowpoint rapid setting grout and Pro-Prime slurry primer.

The outstanding qualities of Sandtex Trade High Build Textured Decorative Coating deliver a long-term solution for the protection of buildings, capable of ironing out surface level imperfections at a stroke. Ideal for covering fine cracks and regulating repaired and uneven surfaces, this advanced masonry product offers exceptional coverage and flexibility, providing both a decorative and protective textured coating with the reassurance of 15 years’ durability, independently certified by the British Board of Agrément. Along with a long-lasting finish, the paint is formulated to maintain its good looks with anti-carbonation properties which protect concrete and metal from atmospheric erosion.

Washroom's off-site service allowed the design to be carefully fine-tuned prior to installation on site for this prestigious office refurbishment project. Washroom's full height Alto toilet cubicle doors were specified with a real wood veneer finish, stained to match the solid Douglas fir timber panelling in the reception area. The bespoke polished cast concrete vanity units feature integral waste bins and Tego hinged mirror units above. For the new staff shower and changing room area Washroom's full height Alto FENIX shower cubicles were installed along with Z style Forza SGL lockers.

Background & BuildingSituated within an Art Deco Grade 1 listed building is MediCity Nottingham, the pharma incubator. MediCity is a collaboration between Boots and BioCity, the UK’s leading life sciences incubation business. To provide and encourage a stimulating and supportive business development environment for innovators, their premises was completely refurbished.The Brief in BriefThe co-working space is a stylish art deco alternative, which was designed to encourage collaboration and productivity for all.Hot desks and “pods” were designed and installed to create a flexible working environment for individuals or small teams. The facilities include laboratory and office space, access to high-end equipment, shared services, training, business support and access to investment. Aligning to the purpose of the facility, building performance was a key aspect of the brief.Komfort’s SolutionWith the intent of meeting performance requirements, Komfort’s glazed Firescreens were installed in the reception area. Komfort’s technical and project management teams worked closely with the design team to provide a solution to fully glaze the reception area from floor to ceiling.Our specialist internal glazing and firescreens provide a fire rating of up to 2 hours, along with sound and structural performance. Utilising thin glass, minimal framing and exceptional structural performance the specialist internal glazing and firescreens are unique, combining aesthetics with performance.The End ResultKomfort thoroughly enjoyed being a part of the design process and working so closely with Roshal Space Consultants. The building now serves the purpose of providing an ideal and inspiring environment for both start-up and established companies to grow and achieve success, whilst adhering to building performance requirements.

After successfully completing living walls at the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet in Ashford, we were approached to design and implement a similar scheme for McArthurGlen’s newest outlet on the outskirts of Paris.This development exemplifies McArthurGlen’s commitment to sustainability. The scheme was built according to ‘Excellent’ High Environmental Quality (HQE) standards and includes 20,000 square metres of green roofs, 1,000 square metres of living walls and 120 electric parking spaces.The architect, Arte Charpentier wanted to create a ‘rich and welcoming experience’ for visitors and the living walls contribute to that vision. At the heart of the development lies a central ellipse, adorned with two gracefully curved stretches of Biotecture’s living cladding, each spanning an impressive 90 metres in length and standing at a height of 11 metres. Two more expansive sections of living wall frame the east entrance.The living walls are a visually striking architectural feature and help to cultivate a serene shopping environment. In addition to their aesthetic contributions, the plants will play a vital role in improving air quality and promoting biodiversity within the outlet.

Working in close co-operation with the building envelope and façade contractor Colorminium, Metalline have produced a range of bespoke 3D twisted fins that will when complete take centre stage on the exterior of the redeveloped Minories Hotel in the City of London. This stunning feature was the brainchild of ACME architects who in collaboration with The Murphy Façade studio have designed a series of full storey aluminium fins that clad the existing precast frame and create a bridge between that and the unitised glazing. Fabricated offsite at Metalline’s state of the art manufacturing facility in Cannock, these 42 metre height fins were produced in 3.5 metre lengths with a depth of over 800mm. Manufactured in 2 parts, each element was assembled using a combination of aluminium stud welding and bonding techniques developed by Metalline. The fins were then fitted to the glazed panels using an aluminium bracket support system to ensure structural integrity. Finished in dark and light bronze PPC to mimic an anodised effect, the fins will create shading for the hotel’s occupants as well as an iconic architectural vista for this stand out landmark project.

For secure mental health units, the safeguarding of both their patients and the general public is paramount. Therefore, it is imperative that patients cannot leave the hospital grounds to ensure that they cannot threaten anyone or themselves. Therefore, secure, sturdy and reliable fencing is a necessity. However, to promote relaxation and recovery for anxious and agitated patients, it is necessary to maximise the capability of this fencing to ensure that it is restful rather than solely restrictive.So, how is it possible to ensure that high-security fencing can also be calming to patients?Secure Mental Health UnitsSecure mental health units in the UK require a high level of security because they often house people who have been previously incarcerated or those who have been admitted to the hospital after committing a crime. In addition, they deliver care to patients who may pose a risk to the general public and try to help their patients recover by offering accommodation, treatment and support.Patients in secure hospitals are not allowed to leave and cannot escape if they pose a danger to themselves or others. Therefore, the security is always extremely stringent inside and outside each unit.What are the Requirments of Secure Units?Security and safety of patients is a priority for NHS mental health units. A mental health unit is not a prison; it is a hospital where patients are cared for and nursed back to recovery with treatment and support. Patients mustn’t feel like they have been locked up, and the environment needs to be calming so that patients can enjoy the restful environment conducive to their recovery.However, it is also essential that patients not come and go because the unit delivers high-level security on a secure mental health unit. Therefore, any perimeter fencing must be extremely secure to keep the patients from leaving the hospital, and patients must also not be able to break down or scale the fencing.Therefore a duality must be created where a prison-like environment exists without the hospital being perceived as a prison by the patients on the unit.The SolutionZaun HiSec Prison fencing is used as a solution to all the requirements of secure mental health units. Every panel of the HiSec 358 close mesh fencing is specifically designed to ensure the safety and security of patients within the unit.In addition to the 358 mesh, the fencing features 1.5mm solid steel sheets, pre-galvanised, powder coated and printed with an image. This provides privacy to the patients inside while maintaining a high-security level. These sheets are then fixed to the fencing with a clamp bar on the post and clamped with an additional clamp bar mid bar to maximise their durability and sturdiness. To achieve tailored and bespoke results, sheets are pre-cut to size before arriving on-site, ready for installation.One of the most important facets of the fencing is the printed image on the front of the sheets. These images, often created by local artists, are created to calm the patients on the mental health unit, making them feel less anxious and improving their positivity. Therefore, they tend to depict calming imagery, such as lush flowers or relaxing scenery.This printed fencing has the dual outcome of keeping patients safe and secure inside the secure mental health unit and giving them restful images to views, such as vibrant yellow sunflowers and the glint of sunlight through woodland. In addition, viewing nature scenes has the benefit of positively improving mental health.

This New Forest family home features an impressive double-height landing space. A small hatch positioned 2.65m above the floor-level provides access to the loft space, which offers useful storage and contains the boiler. The homeowners wanted easy access to the loft. The easy-to-use 'Supreme Vertical' wall access loft ladder from Premier Loft Ladders provided the perfect solution.Despite being manually operated, it is very easy to use due to counter-balance springs and gas-strut mechanism. Furthermore, the Supreme Vertical is offered with a made-to-measure insulated hatch, which avoids having to have a separate (independently operated) door. In addition, the heavy-duty construction makes it ideal for regular use and long-term durability.Visit our website to read the full case study and view the picture gallery. You can also find the 'Supreme Vertical' in NBS Source.

Ward Firth 9 at The Northern General Hospital underwent a complete refurbishment as part of an essential maintenance project recently which included redecoration and new flooring as well as the installation of Yeoman Shield Wall Protection Panels and Guardian Handrail.After the work was completed the ward lookedsmart and refreshed which left the originalNurses Station lack lustre, as pictured to the left.Yeoman Shield were able to offer a solution to theworn work-unit with the application, to the sidesof the desk, of 2.0mm thick FalmouthEx protectionpanels in light grey to match the surrounding décor.The tops of the work stations were covered withYeoman Shield Satin Pastel Smooth panels in thecolour Clay.Not only did the covering of the nurse’s stationwith Yeoman Shield products reflect the newsmart décor of the wards but also gave them anextra lease of life with a durable impact resistantand easy to clean hygienic finish.