"generators"

Beckfoot Allerton opened on 19th November 1894, a proud day for the village of Allerton and its people. The school underwent many changes throughout the years surviving and contributing to both war efforts, while continuing to hold their high standards of education. In 1928 the school official became a primary school and later in 1960 a junior and infants’ school further undergoing changes. After a local authority change in 2000 Beckfoot Allerton Primary school was reborn. In the present day the school is much different to when it was opened generations ago and continues to serve as a corner stone of the village and its community.Taking into consideration all of the requirements of the roof, a bespoke specification was prepared to refurbish the roof. Polyroof’s Protec System, a hybrid polymer liquid system with extremely fast curing and installation times, was the chosen system of use for the project. Due to its fully cold-applied application the works could be carried out during the Primary Schools term times, without having to wait for closure periods between terms.

The UK Atomic Energy Authority’s (UKAEA)’s new facility will provide additional capacity for the STEP research programme at the campus in Culham, Oxfordshire as scientists seek to demonstrate the ability to generate net energy from fusion.Planet’s western contracting team offered their services in the creation of the site’s meeting room and office facilities across all four floors of the building.For meeting and conference rooms requiring high acoustic privacy, our double glazed and frameless PURE100 partition system (Rw 47 dB) was coupled with IsoPro pivoting glazed doors. Some doors were finished with eye-catching UKAEA branded manifestation.Elevated half-height partition screens surrounding breakout areas comprised single glazed PURE20 (Rw 35 dB).Finally, Firestop Ei30 single glazed fire rated screens (Rw 39 dB) were installed to create a fire line on each floor between the building’s offices and the internal atrium.

Clapham ParkBauder Total Green Roof System (BTGRS) with BauderSOLAR G LIGHTSynopsisThe regeneration at Clapham Park involved the demolition of old housing stock to make way for new affordable homes. The 5-storey building with 21 dwellings incorporating the latest rooftop technology which blends a biodiverse green roof and unified solar PV array. This approach met the planning requirements and maximised the limited roof space to generate energy for the residents. The development was certified BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ due to its environmental, economic and social sustainability attributes.Bauder Building BoardProject:Clapham ParkLocation:Clapham Park, Lambeth, LondonRoof Area:500m² green roof layered with 116m² of PVSpecifier:PJMA Architects​Approved Contractor:EJ Roberts Ltd​PV Installer:M & M Electrical LtdThe specification The BauderSOLAR G LIGHT system has National House Building Control (NHBC) approval and meets local authority building control (LABC) requirements. The system was installed on zero falls roof deck, making it a very cost-effective solution.The biodiverse green roof which includes 35 plant species recognised by the RHS as Perfect for Pollinators, covers the totality of the roof area and offers a large variety of vegetation. The building reduces its carbon impact with the highly efficient PIR insulation and generates approximatively 10% of the flats usage with a maximum possible output of 75kWp from the 70 PV modules. The solar PV mounting units are ballasted by the substrate and vegetation, removing the need for any penetrating products in the waterproofing.Products appliedBauder Total Green Roof SystemThis system features a reinforced bituminous waterproofing system offering a service life expectancy in excess of 40 years.BauderSOLAR G LIGHTThe integration of a green roof and photovoltaics into one system drawing the maximum potential from a flat roof.BauderGREEN Flora Seed MixesA blend of 49 British native species seed, to maximise diversity of vegetation on green roofs.Project challengesOne of the major challenges of the project was the roof area, which at only 500m² needed to include a green roof and a renewable energy system to meet the main objectives of sustainability and energy efficiency of the development highlighted by the planning committee. The roof contributed towards requirements under National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) Chapter 11: Conserving and enhancing the natural environment and The London Plan 2011 Policy 5.2 – Minimising Carbon Dioxide Emissions, Policy 5.3 – Sustainable Design and Construction and Policy 5.7 – Renewable Energy. The green roof is layered with a raised PV array so that the entire roof qualifies as a green roof whilst also providing energy generation.System installedBauder Total Green Roof System (BTGRS)1 BauderPLANT EA torch-applied, root resistant capping sheet. The product features chemically treated bitumen to deliver superior root resistance which has been tested and approved by the FLL. The membrane is reinforced with 250g/m² spunbond polyester fleece to allow the finished product to cope with structural movement without fracture.2 BauderTEC KSA DUOA self-adhesive bitumen underlayer with “DUO” lap technology to ensure thorough sealing of lap joints, even in lower temperatures. 3 BauderPIR FA-TEFlatboard insulation used on the lantern roof area to help meet its U-value of 0.15W/m²K. 4 BauderTEC KSD FBSA self-adhesive SBS elastomeric bitumen air & vapour control layer, with a mica finished upper surface to allow easy bonding of insulation using the specified Bauder insulation adhesive.

Resilient, flexible and reliable lift solutions enable logistics services in ZurichIn 2018, Welti-Furrer approached Lödige Industries to install three OLYMPUS heavy goods lifts at their newly build logistics facility in Dielsdorf near Zurich. Logistics service providers and transportation companies are two important service providers across the globe. They ensure that all goods are always reliably and safely in the right place at the right time. Welti-Furrer has been on the road since 1838. As one of the oldest transport companies, Welti-Furrer relies on over 180 years of experience and is therefore very familiar with the central challenges and requirements of lift solutions.Long-term advantages with resilient lift solutionsForklift drivers in logistics centres work highly efficient and at a fast pace. Therefore, it is not possible to completely avoid damage to the facility equipment. However, a large part of the damage can be avoided through intelligent planning of the lift solution. One of the main reasons why Welti-Furrer decided for lift solutions from Lödige Industries is the generic strong resilience of the OLYMPUS heavy goods lift.In addition, other aspects of the lift design were optimised in order to further increase the robustness of the lifts. The wall soffits in the prefabricated concrete shafts were intentionally built smaller than the clear cabin width, thus protecting the whole cabin floor from damage. The outer trays are offset inwards so that they are protected from damage by forklift trucks or similar.Flexible use thanks to integrated card reading systemNext to the resilience of the installed heavy goods lifts, the local service team from Lödige Industries ensures high reliability at any time.Furthermore, in order to maintain the highest flexibility standards, the installed OLYMPUS heavy goods lifts were equipped with an internal card reading system. This functionality allows Welti-Furrer to define individual access rights for their employees.SolutionWelti-Furrer decided for lift solutions from Lödige Industries because of the generic strong resilience of the OLYMPUS heavy goods lift.Several aspects of the lift design, such as the wall soffits and outer trays were optimised in order to further increase the robustness of the lifts.The local service team from Lödige Industries ensures high reliability at any time.The integrated card reading system allows Welti Furrer to define flexibly use the goods lifts.

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.”

ChallengeTo insulate one of Marks and Spencer’s most carbon efficient premier stores with a holistic approach taken towards key sustainability factors such as water, carbon, biodiversity, the community, materials and waste to landfill.SolutionKnauf Insulation’s FactoryClad Roll 40 was utilised within the 11,000m2 multi-wave form standing seam roof, which was supplied by Euroclad to achieve an outstanding visual, functional and environmentally friendly element of the store design, plus achieving a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating. The number of BREEAM credits available from using Knauf Insulation’s Factory Clad Roll 40, played a part in its specification for Marks and Spencer’s flagship sustainable retail store at Cheshire Oaks.Gethin Williams, Euroclad’s Elite Systems Coordinator said: “FactoryClad Roll 40, in 280mm, has a 90/90 lambda value, a generic BRE Green Guide rating of A+ and has excellent thermal and acoustic properties. Thanks to these many characteristics, we thought it was perfect for this project, which resulted in it achieving the relevant BREEAM credits. Being lightweight, flexible and with a high tear strength, fitting was fast and error free, ensuring the thermal integrity was uncompromised.”Knauf Insulation’s FactoryClad Roll 40 is manufactured with ECOSE® Technology, has a thermal conductivity of 0.040W/mK and also has the highest possible Euroclass A1 reaction to fire classification when tested in accordance with BS EN 13501-1.In addition to this, Knauf Insulation’s mineral wool products with ECOSE Technology benefit from a revolutionary, bio-based, formaldehyde-free binder technology, based on rapidly renewable materials, instead of petro-based chemicals – delivering superior environmental sustainability and enhancing the environmental credentials without affecting the thermal, acoustic or fire performance. What’s more Knauf Insulation FactoryClad Roll 40 represents no known threat to the environment and has zero Ozone Depletion Potential and zero Global Warming Potential."Knauf Insulation FactoryClad Roll 40, in 280mm, has a 90/90 lambda value, a generic BRE Green Guide rating of A+ and has excellent thermal and acoustic properties. Thanks to these many characteristics, we thought it was perfect for this project, which resulted in it achieving the relevant BREEAM credits. Being lightweight, flexible and with a high tear strength, fitting was fast and error free, ensuring the thermal integrity was uncompromised."- Gethin Williams, Euroclad’s Elite Systems Coordinator

Long house is a modern interpretation of a Derbyshire Dales longhouse and houses three generations of their respective families. It was built to Passivhaus standards and to have minimal visual impact on its rural surroundings and featured in a September episode of Channel 4’s Grand Designs. On the ground floor, a combination of floor-to-ceiling windows and a completely open-plan layout fills the house with sunlight and creates a feeling of space and tranquillity. A shared sitting room for Sarah and Mike’s mothers is known as the ‘lady chapel’ and its oversized windows provide spectacular views across the valley.Energy efficiency, thermal performance and sustainability are all key when building to Passivhaus standards. The couple were also keen to meet the Royal Institute of British Architects 2030 Challenge targets for operational energy use, water usage and embodied carbon. Durability and security were also priorities.‘The windows are the stars of the show. The whole house feels full of light and life. The views are spectacular and in every room we feel part of the landscape, but without having to put a jumper on!’

Having purchased a beautiful plot in the Sussex Countryside, our client designed a luxury basement health suite with spectacular lighting effects. Sauna360 UK was invited to provide a specially designed bespoke sauna and steam room to complete this home spa.Bespoke Sauna: Our client came to us with a design idea for a modern, sleek sauna interior that did not use traditional horizontal or vertical wall panelling. Sauna360 UK was able to bring the client's ideas to life using bespoke sauna boards to create a clean, contemporary look that is just as efficient and comfortable whilst also achieving the desired aesthetic. A full glass fascia was used to complete the sauna allowing the client to enjoy a spectacular view of the indoor pool and bespoke space wall art beyond; featuring real still footage captured by the NASA Hubble Telescope!Bespoke Steam Room: Sauna360 also installed an opulent, bespoke steam room alongside the sauna. Finished in a deep blue glass mosaic with generous, sweeping roll front benches, the client is able to relax in comfort and style. 

 Mechanical Biological Treatment (MBT) facility that treats all of the residual household waste generated in Essex and Southend. To meet the structural design criteria of the contract, a very strong roof profile was required. To ensure fully effective sealing, this had to be a plain sheet without stiffening ribs. The requirement was met by a specially modified Trisobuild® R60 roof profile in a higher strength steel. The modified Trisobuild® R60 solution spans 2.65m. Tata Steel altered its production tooling to manufacture 26,000m2 of the modified R60 roof profile in double-sided Colorcoat HPS200 Ultra®.Colorcoat HPS200 Ultra® was chosen to optimise protection against the corrosive internal environment and external weather side of the bio-stabilisation halls. Super durable Colorcoat HPS200 Ultra® provides exceptional corrosion resistance which has been proven in natural and accelerated testing. Colorcoat HPS200 Ultra® exceeds the requirements of CP15 (as per EN 10169.2010), demonstrating excellent barrier properties when used internally.Images courtesy of UBB (Essex) Construction JV.

This scheme was based around a prestigious new commercial office development which included a public realm space. The goal was to create an attractive outdoor space that would provide a relaxing outdoor environment for workers and serve as a communal space that the general public could also utilise. By diligently selecting a range of design led external furniture items from Artform Urban Furniture, the completed project has resulted in a sophisticated and popular external space that enhances the local area and will be enjoyed by a wide variety of people for many years to come.The Box Litter Bin is a popular option from Artform due to its flexible design options. The main structure is manufactured from a robust 6mm thick sheet with various options for the door finish. From the most popular timber-clad versions to Steel rods, and solid or laser-cut steel plate. For Wellington Place, the solid steel door with integrated ashtray was chosen with the addition of customised decals that coordinate with the area's recognisable branding. The design is simple and robust making it perfect in a whole host of external spaces. 

Hush Acoustics provided a solution to reverberation issues at the newly extended Queen Elizabeth Hall in the village of Layer de la Haye near Colchester.The hall was designed to be used as a multi-functional amenity for local residents and the general public and is host to anything from Scouts groups to wedding receptions. It was therefore imperative that the acoustics within the building were to a good level to be able to comfortably make use of the hall for all the varying activities.As in many domestic and public places, reverberation and in severe cases, echoes, had become a problem in with mid to high frequency sounds (in most cases) of speech causing disruptive and discomforting noise problems.After an initial inspection, Hush Acoustics proposed the installation of 30x Hush Absorber 50A panels. This Class A sound absorber has built in support frames to allow for bracket fixing to provide an air void behind the absorber for enhanced acoustic performance. The absorber panels were fitted over two days which meant the work had minimal impact to the running of the community activities.The client’s feedback was that the acoustics in the hall after installation “are perfect”.

In a recent refurbishment of the Sea Life centre in Brighton, international flooring specialist Gerflor supplied 670m2 of vinyl flooring. The project included a fusion of their GTI Max Technical Tiles and Tarasafe Ultra Safety flooring collections.Neil Harris, General Manager, Sea Life Brighton commented, “We chose Gerflor’s GTI Max and Tarasafe Ultra products because we needed a fast-track solution for a unique and challenging environment, which sits within a 150-year-old grade two listed building. Gerflor specialists were on hand, having visited the site, they offered the best solution for our unique building and considered all the various environmental factors that we manage.”Neil Harris further added, “We would absolutely specify Gerflor flooring again. In fact, some of our on-site partners immediately reached out to Gerflor to highlight their interest in having similar work carried out in other parts of the building. Gerflors’ customer service was also brilliant, with incredibly open and honest communication, with a desire to achieve our needs as a customer at all times.”

The Friedrichscarrée is a modern office and retail complex in the center of Stuttgart.Named after the former king of Württemberg, Friedrich I., it is characterised by its modern architecture and glass front. In addition to numerous companies, it now also hosts retail, catering businesses and event spaces. The good access to public transportation and the close proximity to restaurants and cultural institutions, make Friedrichscarrée an attractive location for businesses and visitors.As the general contractor for the expansion, Lindner carried out an extensive interior construction - ranging from drywall work to floor systems and wall cladding. In addition to high-quality floor coverings and also partly automated partition walls, the special construction of the hollow floor FLOOR and more® for the pedestal in the barista bar was a central element of the revitalisation. Lindner hallway ceilings LMD, heating and cooling ceilings and acoustic sails were also installed to optimise room acoustics.Furthermore, GiB mbH supported Lindner in upgrading the existing fire protection. The entire conversion was carried out during ongoing business, which required precisescheduling of noise-intensive work.

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is the greatest horticultural event. It is known all around the world for its fabulous floral displays, thought provoking and beautifully landscaped show gardens and for nurturing gardening trends and talent.Held in the most beautiful grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, the RHS Chelsea Flower Show is guaranteed to inspire and wow everyone who visits.One such garden is the RBC Brewin Dolphin Garden designed by one of House & Gardens Top 50 Garden Designers of 2023, Paul Hervey-Brookes. This stunning Silver-Gilt show garden ‘draws creative inspiration from the way knowledge is passed down from generation to generation and interpreted for the modern world.’To assist with the longevity and sustainable features of this garden, landscaping expert and garden consultant, G K Wilson Landscapes, opted to use UltraScape eco-bed environmentally friendly bedding mortar and slipbond brick slip adhesive to install the beautiful Lunar Sand pavers and Dover Taupe porcelain wall tiles. For the finishing flourish, the paving was grouted using UltraTile ProGrout Flexible in Bahama Beige and Grey.In a Chelsea Flower Show first, garden designer and RHS ambassador for inclusivity and diversity, Manoj Malde married his partner in his own magnificently designed RHS and Eastern Eye Garden of Unity feature garden. This powerful and vibrant garden is inspired by Manoj’s Indian heritage and has inclusivity and sustainability at its heart. Alongside peat-free planting, the garden also embraced the use of reclaimed materials to create the limestone path and used UltraScape eco-bed environmentally friendly bedding mortar to install the limestone paving.Two further award-winning gardens to benefit from Instarmac’s expertise are Darren Hawkes’ Silver-Gilt Samaritan’s Listening Garden and Emma Tipping’s Gold Medal St George ‘Alight Gere’ Balcony Garden.UltraScape were honoured to have supported, and sponsored, each of these beautiful gardens.UltraScape has been manufacturing and providing the industry with high quality, specialist paving installation materials for over 25 years. Their proven and trusted range includes BS 7533 complaint bedding mortars, primers, jointing solutions and brick slip adhesive. UltraScape’s premium products are specified by contractors, architects, consultants and engineers for an ever-expanding portfolio of major schemes across the UK.Choose UltraScape’s proven and certified BS 7533 Mortar Paving System for the performance and assurance that comes with a UKAS seal of approval – you can’t afford not to!To find out more about UltraScape’s range of paving installation materials, please email ultrascape@instarmac.co.uk, visit ultrascape.co.uk or call their team of experts by ringing +44 (0) 1827 254402.

Developed by Willmott Dixon and designed by Corstorphine & Wright as part of Devon & Cornwall’s Police and Crime transformation plan, this state-of-the-art police centre and operational hub is the base for up to 450 officers across the area. The project was developed with the intent to improve custody areas for detainees and provide a comfortable, modern working facility for its staff. During the development of the project, suggestions were taken from custody sergeants to help create a better space for staff and detainees.To provide the facilities necessary for 21st-century policing, attention was paid to integrating assets such as a virtual court system, and technology to monitor the health of vulnerable detainees and allow for crisp, modern meeting spaces that cater for a multitude of police functions.Local suppliers were engaged with the project and through training schemes, the project has been able to offer valuable experience to apprentices. Utilising 314sqm of Solar panels also means this build generates a substantial amount of green energy.Blockleys Synthesis S14 was used to create a strong, dark belt around the building which then blends smoothly into vertical strips of glass and contrasting white facades.

Located in the heart of the vast new Wembley Park regeneration project, the two residential buildings that make up the Landsby East and Landsby West development (Danish for village) are contemporary in design, with apartment interiors that continue the Scandinavian theme. Externally there are roof terraces and first floor level podium gardens, along with 280 generous balconies that add a stylish and aesthetic feel to the exterior finish of the building.A key element of the balconies was the installation of Isokorb® T structural break units from Schöck. The Schöck Isokorb® T units are structural, but their other long-term purpose is to minimise the risk of thermal bridging. Ineffective insulation at the connection points means local heat loss, resulting in more energy being required to maintain the internal temperature of the building. This is a major consequence of thermal bridging, but there are other issues too. Low internal surface temperatures in the area of the thermal bridge can cause condensation, which leads not only to structural integrity problems with absorbent materials such as insulation products or plasterboard, but the potentially serious occurrence of mould growth. So for any project involving balcony connectivity the prevention of thermal bridging is a critical issue.

IntroductionSurespan design and manufactured two sets of bespoke double leaf hatch doors for the Kielder Observatory located in England’s largest forest in Northumberland. Products suppliedWe supplied;Surespan designed and manufactured two sets of bespoke double leaf hatch doors for the roof and the front of the Observatory’s two rotating turrets – one to house a 20” Pulsar manual telescope and the other for a small Mead 14” telescope. Features:These hatches are electrically operated and have been specially designed to open in a specific sequence using remote control via 24v dc actuators.The projectAs part of the Kielder Art and Architecture program, Charles Barclay Architects designed Kielder Observatory for the Forestry Commission.The all-timber observatory was constructed from Douglas fir with larch cladding, the pier-like building has rotating turrets that house two permanent telescopes and an observation deck. The turrets can be rotated through 360 degrees.The observatory generates its energy using a wind turbine and photovoltaic panels and includes a composting toilet.The observatory has received 2009 awards from the RIBA and The Civic Trust and featured in the inaugural World Architecture Festival.

Kielder Observatory Surespan designed and manufactured two sets of bespoke double leaf hatch doors for the Kielder Observatory located in England’s largest forest in Northumberland.  The ProjectAs part of the Kielder Art and Architecture program, Charles Barclay Architects designed Kielder Observatory for the Forestry Commission. The all-timber observatory was constructed from Douglas fir with larch cladding, the pier-like building has rotating turrets that house two permanent telescopes and an observation deck. The turrets can be rotated through 360 degrees.The observatory generates its energy using a wind turbine and photovoltaic panels and includes a composting toilet. The observatory has received 2009 awards from the RIBA and The Civic Trust and featured in the inaugural World Architecture Festival.  The ProductSurespan design and manufactured two sets of bespoke double leaf hatch doors for the roof and the front of the Observatory’s two rotating turrets – one to house a 20” Pulsar manual telescope and the other for a small Mead 14” telescope.  FeaturesThese hatches are electrically operated and have been specially designed to open in a specific sequence using remote control via 24v dc actuators.      

Orbis OS200 Vertical Bar Infill Side FixOrbis OS211 Glass Infill Top FixProviding more than 120,000 sq ft, of innovation space for high growth enterprises, this project is situated within Imperial College London’s White City campus. Built by a market leader with specialist expertise in modular buildings, this project demanded a high level of innovation, and a balustrade supplier that delivered on cost, quality, and timescales. The main reception area is dominated by a large feature stair providing access to all floors, and the Orbis balustrades with glass infill achieve a stunning first impression and allow maximum light through the space from the vast glazed roof lights above. Throughout the three core stairs, which are used for general circulation and escape routes, the vertical bar infill panels within the Orbis balustrade was used. This robust modular panel solution is pre-manufactured to speed up installation on site, which was extremely important to the main contractor. Individual stair cores were not closed for extended periods of time, which means greater productivity, less management time, and reduced risk for the main contractor.

Perched on an elevated plane above the tranquil Suffolk village of Rattlesden, Rising Sun Hill is a bespoke residential housing development that seeks to blend in with its surroundings while standing out among other new builds for its character.The 22 homes include eight that will be offered as affordable housing. Individually conceptualised, the homes feature finishes that draw on traditional materials and designs, such as weatherboarding and rendering. To reflect the space of the surrounding countryside, the homes (which range from 2-4 bedrooms) are roomy, both inside and out. Large, landscaped gardens, stone paths, patios and generous planting of shrubs and trees complete the idyllic setting.But attention to detail hasn’t just been dedicated to aesthetics. Consideration has also been given to the homes’ long-term sustainability, with each home being fitted with an air source heat pump and well-designed insulation.The very fabric of the buildings, from the blockwork to the timber frame, has been scrutinised too. For developer Hartog Hutton, it was just as important to use high-quality materials as it was to give each building its own individual flair.

Brett Landscaping, leading provider of high-quality hard landscape materials, has partnered with O’Brien Contractors, to supply block paving for the development of a new sports facility for the Old Saltleians Rugby Football Club in Warwickshire. The club, which was formed 95 years ago has been a fixture of West Midlands amateur rugby was required to relocate due to their original home obstructing the route of the HS2 development. With a sizeable budget at hand due to generous compensation from HS2, there were high expectations for top specification materials and an impressive finish at the new Water Orton site. O’Brien Contractors were appointed in 2021 to transform 17 acres of farmland into a state-ofthe-art sporting facility. The aim was to create a modern facility for sport and events, with the inspiration for the project being the surrounding natural environment. For Old Saltleians, this meant four high-standard grass pitches featuring advanced trench and pipe drainage (adhering to Sports England Standards), with irrigation ensuring year-round playability. The relocation included the addition of an ultra-modern clubhouse offering social spaces for the club and community to host events. This meant including extensive parking for the site was required on the site.

Suma International Manufacturing Company fabricated 26 Halspan FD90 64mm for Jawaher Residential Building.Halspan 90 internal fire door blanks feature Halspan's unique 3-layer particle board. Specifically designed for the purpose, using a complex combination of chemical and engineering development, these blanks produce doors of altogether superior quality, strength and overall preformance.The Jawaher Residential Building is suited in Salmiya, Kuwait, and compromises of 13 floors featuring luxury apartments, a gymnasium, and a rooftop swimming pool overlooking the city.This project featured 26 fire-rated doors fabricated using Halspan’s FD90 64mm unique 3-layer particle board that is durability tested to severe duty and is suitable for veneer, laminate, or paint finishes.The doors were used in the primary entrances for all floor levels and are latched single-acting single doors (LSASD) featuring a wooden frame and solid red meranti lipping with beech veneer facing.This project was contracted by Main Contractor; Al Daleel General Trading & Contracting Co and was fabricated by Suma International Manufacturing Company.Photography courtesy of Suma International Manufacturing Company.

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

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

Built on a largely derelict gap site, The Works is a development of 34 two-bedroomed apartments in the popular Yorkhill / Finnieston area of Glasgow, offering panoramic views over the city and the River Clyde. To accommodate the site’s slope, the development comprises a four-storey north side and a six-story south side.The development had to overcome a number of issues, including planning issues around daylighting and massing, and the challenge of building immediately adjacent to the Yorkhill railway tunnel.PROJECT INFOThe Works provides residents with off-street parking and use of a large communal garden, with ground floor properties having private rear gardens. Design emphasis is on open-plan layouts and generous room sizes. To take advantage of the views, the apartments feature south-facing and Juliet-style balconies.Ecostock Belgravia Gault Blend was selected to meet the requirements of both the client and planning for a high quality, light buff brick with grey tones that would match the surrounding buff sandstone tenements. The sustainability credentials and technical performance of Ecostock, with its low water absorption suiting the wet weather typical of the west of Scotland’s, also contributed to the selection decision.

Material Store is part of The Old Vinyl Factory, a 17-acre site in Hayes.The four ‘warehouse’ blocks of Material Store rise above a podium and surround an oasis of private patios and a large common garden. The parking below the podium is concealed behind 3-bedroom town houses that animate the street with their steps and ‘front’ doors.The roofs of all fours blocks are landscaped as communal gardens. The extended articulated parapet to the tallest block creates an outdoor room and emphasises the building’s position as the tallest element of the masterplan.The 189 build-to-rent homes enjoy generous shared facilities that promote a sense of community in the context of private rented sector (PRS) tenure. These include play areas, a function room, picnic tables, allotments, a concierge service and an onsite maintenance crew. Commercial uses, which front onto the spine street, are intended for sharing with the wider community.The Arriva doorsets plays a key part in this development to create a seamless design. The Arriva system features a split-type EZYJamb®, specially designed to seamlessly integrate with finished wall constructions like stud and plasterboard. This innovative system is ideal for those seeking flush doors with an invisible door frame for a modern and integrated aesthetic.

Located at Swansea University’s Bay Campus, and designed and constructed by SPECIFIC Innovation and Knowledge Centre, the Active Office and Active Classroom are both designed to be energy positive buildings, capable of generating more solar energy than they consume during a typical annual cycle.The Swansea area of South Wales is synonymous with steelmaking as Tata Steel’s Port Talbot steelworks is just a few miles away from the Bay Campus. For this reason, SPECIFIC wanted to use steel as much as possible on these structures and so a Tata Steel wall and roof cladding system was chosen using Colorcoat Prisma® pre-finished steel, all made in Wales.The Active Classroom also feature Tata Steel’s Colorcoat Renew SC® transpired solar collectors, The system captures heat from the sun and draws it into the building through a microperforated collector on the exterior of the building. Heated fresh air from the cavity is then used as a pre-heater to the main heating system. A transpired solar collector can collect around 50% of the energy falling on its surface, which equates to approximately 500wp/m2 of the collector’s surface area and can deliver around 250KWH/m2per year or up to 50% of space heating requirements.

The car dealer Kronsbjerg in Odense, Denmark, is a family owned company. Kronsbjerg was established in 1922 and is now run by the fourth generation with three branches on the Danish island Funen. Over the years, they have sold and serviced several, different car brands. In December 2015, Autohuset Kronsbjerg started selling and servicing yet another car brand in their department in Odense. Taking on this new car brand meant that existing facilities became too small. Therefore, Kronsbjerg decided to invest in a new, beautiful building of approx. 1500 m2 , which could accommodate both management facilities and exhibition areas for the existing and new cars. The new premises are built in split levels between the two exhibition areas that have a level difference of approx. 50 cm. Therefore, it was necessary to create accessibility for people with walking difficulties and wheelchair users – as well as to meet the Danish regulatory requirements for accessibility in new buildings.To negotiate the height differences Kronsbjerg chose the LP7 platform lift from Stepless by Guldmann both because of its elegant and light design but also because of the plug and play construction that has a very low entry level of only 50 mm. This allows for a short ramp and no need for placing the platform in a pit.  

Baldovie EFW CHP Facility is a energy from waste site using around 110,000 tonnes of residual waste per year from Dundee and Angus to generate electricity. Project/doors:7 Insulated Roller Shutter Doors1 High Speed Door - Speedor StormThe challengeDue to the nature of the build and technical challenges from the onset, Hart worked direct with the contractor and the consultants in the design phase to provide a solution to suit each challenge faced such as corrosion, odours, noise and infestationThe solutionInsulation is a key feature of an energy saving environment. Insulated roller shutters have a thermal value of minimum 0.69w/m.sq.k and 18db to minimise operational noise. The Speedor Storm is an extremely robust door with wind class 5 up to 8m. Moisture-controlled electrics protect from varying temperatures within a building, and mechanical components are protected from dust and dirt controlling the escaping dirt, odours and noiseThe successFollowing extensive communication with the contractor and the consultants to ensure the smooth running of the project, the steelwork was designed and installed correctly to allow for the timely installation of the Hart manufactured doors. Each door was made to measure and each activator and safety device fitted to suit the environment

Meadow House is a 17 storey, block of flats situated in Coventry. The residential apartment block was built in 1967 and is the second tower block, in Coventry, to be painted using KEIM for its fire-resistant certifications.Similarly to Falkener House, located near Coventry cite centre, this project required a fire-resistant coating and must classify to A2-s1,d0, to meet current building regulations.The applicator, Elhance Limited, who are Leicester based, contacted KEIM to provide a fire-resistant paint. The painted concrete balcony surrounds, and painted brickwork were in relatively good condition. There was general dirt from the urban environment as well as moss and green growth on the surface which required cleaning before any decoration was to take place.KEIM Soldalit-ME was specified due to its A2-s1,d0 fire classification. It is a durable exterior paint that has the added benefit of breaking down organic material and contaminants, which will keep the surfaces cleaners for longer.The facades will not require decoration for another 10-15 years, if not more.A final tower block, also situated in Coventry, has been commissioned to be painted using KEIM Soldalit-ME again due to its fire resistant and durable benefits.

Armourcoat's three dimensional Sculptural Barcode wall finish has been specified at a high profile office fit-out in Eastpoint Business Park, Dublin. The project interior, designed by Meehan Associates, includes a series of ‘huddle rooms’ and meeting spaces with wonderful use of bold accent colour to help orientate staff. The colours also act to highlight the clean, crisp detailing of the linear ‘Barcode’ design used to link the spaces. Armourcoat Sculptural creates seamless wall surfaces with impactful designs and cast relief. Each design is created from cast GRG (Glass-fibre Reinforced Gypsum) panels, CAD generated to enable a continuous pattern or unique decorative effect.Over 600m2 of Armourcoat’s Sculptural Barcode finish was applied to achieve the seamless finish to walls, together with banded polished plaster finishes in various colours throughout the building.The project was delivered by Meehan Associates to meet USGBC LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) standards.The architects were keen to specify sustainable materials to ensure their positive contribution to the project. In keeping with the eco specification, Armourcoat finishes include 40% pre-consumer recycled marble and no VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds).

Providing 21 affordable homes in the first ‘carbon negative’ housing community of its kind in the UK. The initial concept began in 2009 with the aim of creating carbon negative housing. The project is ground breaking with a plan to lock away as much carbon as possible whilst generating excess energy from systems installed.Lewis Deck light weight steel/ screed composite floor system providing acoustic floors improving Building Regulations Part E standards by at least 8dB was installed in the apartments.This project achieved a Zero Carbon certification under the Code for Sustainable Homes and achieved Passiv Haus standards, but was not certified under this system. The performance was monitored by the Technology Strategy Board (TSB) as well as how the social tenants found the experience of living there given the lifestyle adjustments that were needed.The Lewis Deck was used as it achieved the enhanced acoustic and fire performance required in this project, especially given that this was a timber frame development. The elements of the building also had to achieve an A+ Green Guide to Specification rating from the BRE, this was achieved by using a liquid screed on top of the deck that contained a high recycled content.The project won a number of awards and was marketed as the UK's 1st "Carbon Negative" social housing scheme.

Top-of-the-range lab solution for a major new production siteNext to the company’s headquarters in Aalen, 70km east of Stuttgart in Southern Germany, Papierfabrik Palm – one of the leading European manufacturers of papers for the printing industry, corrugated base papers and corrugated packaging – has built a brand-new paper mill. Its scale alone sets it in a category of its own: Palm invested half a billion Euros into the project, and to supply the production process with the required amount of steam, the site relies of the two largest water boilers in the world.This new paper mill, though, is just one of many milestones. Founded in 1872, Papierfabrik Palm operates in the meantime 33 production sites. In 2020, the company generated 1.5 billion Euros in global revenues. In terms of size and success, Palm epitomises the ‘hidden champions’ of the German economy ­– family-owned businesses that have combined highly professional management with ambitious international growth strategies to expand far beyond the usual bounda­ries of the category. In addition – and today more than ever – Papierfabrik Palm is ideally positioned to reap the benefits of sustainability: since its inception, the company has been using exclusively recycled raw materials.

Bombardier Services UK based in Biggin Hill is business related to aircraft services such as manufacturing business jets, services and repairs, and general aircraft expertise. The modern office and manufacturing space aligns with the high-quality business jets that they design and produce.Our team at Helmsman, we have manufactured and installed 40 two-compartment heavy-duty laminate lockers with the measurements to be 1900mm high, 300mm wide, and 450mm deep with the lockers to have sloped top-end panels to match the lockers that were manufactured and installed by Helmsman in 2022.The laminate lockers were powder coated with Greenlam Primeval oak to match the light aesthetics of the room as well as to blend with the other lockers with the body of the locker to be ‘Ice’ which is a shade of grey. The laminate lockers were decorated with oval laminated number plates above the Camlocks made by Lowe & Fletcher. The locks are easy to use, with each staff member being allocated to their own lockers which would make the staff feel secure that their items are protected.It was great to work with Bombardier Services UK again on the project. If you have a similar project or want to know more about laminate lockers, give us a call at 01284 530 427.

Made-to-measure satin-brushed stainless steel worktops and sinks from GEC Anderson have been used to enhance the light and contemporary spaces they are situated in at Brockholes Nature Reserve near Preston, Lancashire.The nature reserve was formed over 10 years out of a former gravel quarry, with a range of habitats added to existing woodlands and water, carefully crafted to attract different species of birds, animals, fish and plant life. The project is the winner of 2 Civic Trust Awards and has achieved the new and highest rating of sustainability, BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ for interim design stage.Owned by the National Wildlife Trust, Brockholes combines a visitor centre with a 67-hectare nature reserve funded by the North West Regional Development Agency. Brockholes is one of the best sites in the UK for many species of birds and different habitats have been created throughout the area to encourage them and other wildlife to visit the siteThe buildings and open spaces form a village-like cluster, floating on a large pontoon and include various facilities such as a café, gift shop and information area. The kitchenette is situated in the conference centre, which is available for hire by companies and individuals for private functions. The small kitchen space is used for general washing up tasks as well as for the storage of crockery and cutlery, includes two GEC Anderson made-to-measure brushed-satin stainless steel sinktops. Designed to fit the compact space available, the stainless steel worktops combine robust functionality with their professional and attractive appearance.The Education Classroom is situated in the Visitor Village and accommodates up to 60 people. It is used for school and adult education activities during term time and family activities during school holidays. A single piece, 3.5 metre, GEC Anderson made-to-measure brushed-satin stainless steel sinktop is located within this area, that includes a special 2.2 metre trough sink to a 180mm depth. This special trough sink is used for general wet activities and for cleaning of art and craft equipment. Kath Knight, Manager at Brockholes said, “Stainless steel provides clean lines and good looks in a modern classroom environment and compliments the surrounding building materials, which are mainly timber.”For the architect, it was also the obvious choice for this busy educational space, as it is hard wearing, hygienic, maintenance free and retains its original appearance over time. GEC Anderson was also chosen for their ability to provide the sinktop configurations to meet the design requirements.Managing Director of GEC Anderson, Martin Tye, comments: “This is a situation where practical requirements must be satisfied but where design and use of natural, balanced, honest materials are, equally, of importance. Stainless steel worktops tend to blend-in so well precisely because of their neutral appearance.”

Hethel Engineering CentreBauder Thermoplan FPO single ply system with Bauder solar PV systemSynopsisHethel Engineering Centre supports high performance engineering companies located throughout Norfolk. The original building at the centre had been operating at maximum capacity and they urgently required a new building to satisfy increasing levels of demand. The client wanted the new facility to meet a high level of sustainability, achieving a BREEAM excellent rating and using key renewable technologies, such as photovoltaics (PV) to minimise its environmental impact.Bauder Building BoardProject:Hethel Engineering CentreLocation:Hethel, NorfolkProject type:New buildRoof size:2,500m²Specifier:NPS GroupApproved contractor:Voland AsphalteThe specificationBauder’s Thermoplan single ply membrane was specified for the new building’s 2,500m2 roof due to its longevity. Roof areas totalling 500m² were fitted with 160 PV Modules, enabling the centre to generate at least 44.23 mWh of solar power each year and annual CO² savings of 23.40 tonnes. The PV system was installed without any penetration of the waterproofing or roof deck, ensuring the integrity of the roof is completely upheld. The simplicity of the installation also meant that approved contractor, Voland Asphalte, could install the entire PV array in just one day.Products appliedBauder solar PV system160 solar photovoltaic modules were installed with an expected energy generation of 44.23 megawatt-hours and a kilowatt peak of 47.20 along with Bauder's Thermoplan single ply membrane.  Project challengesThe centre remained operational throughout the works, which caused logistical challenges, however all deliveries were timed as not to conflict with vehicles moving in and out of the facility. The work at HEC was completed on time and to budget, providing the client with an innovative roof that boasts extraordinary environmental credentials.System installedThermoplan Single Ply System 1 Bauder Thermoplan FPO FPO membrane with laminated fleece for adhered installations; pre-coated cross weave polyester reinforcement for high levels of tear resistance.2 BauderPIR M 60An efficient PIR flatboard insulation with aluminium foil facing on both sides and rebated edges to remove a thermal bridge.3 BauderTEC KSDA technically advanced self-adhesive elastomeric bitumen air and vapour control layer with an aluminium foil facing for vapour impermeability.AdvocacyKarl Manning at NPS Group: “Hethel Engineering Centre is a perfect example of a project where outstanding workmanship and top quality products can harmoniously come together to deliver an exceptional, sustainable roofing solution. The Voland team in collaboration with Bauder provided the highest degree of technical support throughout the project, helping us overcome any issues we encountered promptly and efficiently.”