"shower head"

Elegant glass partitions at Intermediate Capital Group’s new headquarters Intermediate Capital Group (ICG) has recently completed the fit-out of their new London head office. Situated in a highly sought-after spot on Ludgate Circus in the City, this asset management companies’ new office provides a stylish working environment. Used extensively throughout the building, our range of glass partitions helped create an airy and modern space. Furthermore. the integration of our innovative switchable glass partitions at ICG’s new London headquarters enhances privacy within the office. Working alongside architects HLW International and main contractor ISG we created an elegant and sleek fit-out, installing a contemporary, open design built with colleagues and clients in mind.

A renovated listed  building in Glasgow city centre has offered CoVault the ideal space to create a contemporary hybrid workspace. The historic building, formerly the residence of a previous Lord Provost, convener of Glasgow City Council, now houses CoVault’s head office and a flexible multi-tenanted workspace which provides a one-stop-shop for local entrepreneurs and growing businesses.When Victoria Scott, project manager at CoVault, started to plan the interior she knew that using several complementary flooring patterns would effectively zone areas for different activities, something that was key to making the most of the vast open plan space. With a selection of flooring designs in keeping with the age of the building and a welcoming home from home feel, the space now boasts a refreshed but characterful update that is sympathetic to its colourful past.

Radii’s Pre-Construction Design Department worked closely with architects tp bennett to deliver a number of high-end bespoke solutions at this stunning location in St. James’, London.Working across 58 offices and meeting rooms, our elegant and slimline Parallel 50 and Parallel 84 systems (both Rw 45 dB) with Glide framed sliding doors were used on Level 4 with recessed head track detailing. Detailed manifestation finishes provided vision panels into the internal spaces.For 11 private spaces on Level 5, stunning smoked oak moulded timber doors were installed with PPC aluminium inlaid trim finished to match the glazing tracks. The timber portal door frames were designed to be as deep as the adjacent drywall nibs to create a flush and seamless finish.

In 2017, Belshill Academy invested in a new outdoor sports facility, which included three separate multi-sport courts to offer handball, basketball, hockey, tennis and football.HAGS was the successful bidder for the development, which also included a warm up / cool down section, outdoor gym, and a 400m four lane running track, and selected DCM to install the polymeric surface.The Deputy Head at Belshill Academy, John McGuire, commented:“The new MUGA facility has had a very positive impact at our school. It has brought a new dimension to PE lessons, allowing staff a far greater range of options in their delivery of lessons. The pupils love using the facility and it has been great for after school clubs as well as encouraging pupils to be active at interval and lunchtime.”

A charming, contemporary style private villa with a swimming-pool in Gobelsbach in Germany was designed to create a large living solution surrounded by nature.Atlas Concorde outdoor floors of the Trust LASTRA 20mm collection give a touch of elegance to the outdoor spaces of the house. The outdoor flooring of the terrace of the villa mirrors, with harmony, the naturalness of the surrounding environment. The wood-look porcelain tiles have a rich and detailed surface that conjures up images of nature that is lavish and intriguing. The garden and the relaxation area develops into a sought-after outdoor space where even the smallest of details have been cared for, thanks to the presence of a large swimming-pool with shower and an outdoor living area. The stone-look porcelain tiles are the protagonists of the patios surrounded by the green facing the rooms of the house. The outdoor floors covered with Trust LASTRA in 20mm thickness and in size 45x90 permeates into the space with a surface featuring excellent technical performance, is safe, anti-slip and resistant to adverse weather conditions. The collection also includes numerous trim tiles that are suitable to clad swimming-pool edges, pathways and steps guaranteeing a coordinated project.

Funding was secured to renovate a Grade II listed lido in Pontypridd. The lido, which had remained derelict since 1991, was given a new lease of life after the local authority clinched the funding required to restore it back to its former glory. As part of the scheme, the existing derelict buildings would be renovated and the Lido bathing area remodeled into three heated pools. The restoration included external covered showers, heated changing facilities and a learning and historical interpretation centre. The client needed a coloured product that was highly durable, easy to place and maintain, available in a range of colours and, most important of all, capable of retaining its colour and beauty. TOPTINT coloured was recommended as the ideal solution. TOPTINT contains an integral colour pigment which is UV stable meaning that the colour will not degrade from natural sunlight. Also, because a liquid pigment is used the colour is evenly mixed throughout the concrete. As this pigment is integral to the mix it is a long lasting and frost-resistant solution, requiring little on-going maintenance and therefore making it a more sustainable long term solution.

Located within the epicentre of central London, Sixty London Wall delivers high quality Grade A office accommodation combined with superior retail opportunities, all housed within a visually striking contemporary development that stands apart from neighbouring buildings.Delivering 325,000 sq. ft of premium office space over 10 floors, the extensively renovated property offers collaborative working areas, bolstered by first class end of journey facilities for commuters, including 380 cycle spaces and lockers and 38 showers and changing rooms.As part of the construction process, almost 500 Profab Access high quality riser doors and access panels have been installed throughout the entire building by specialist carpentry, joinery and fit-out contractors, JJ Sweeney.Specified in a range of sizes and configurations for installation throughout the communal areas and washrooms on every floor, Profab Access’ robust and resilient INTEGRA 4000 Series and VISION 8000 Series fire-rated Riser Doors provide concealed access to mechanical and electrical services.

IssueWavendon Community Hub has been created and designed to provide local residents with a place to meet and take part in physical and social activities. In keeping with surrounding properties, Wavendon Community Hub is constructed in red/buff brick, with pitched tiled roofs. The building comprises two separate halves: a community side with a vaulted hall space and a separate, large multi-purpose area with changing facilities. The floors needed to perform for different needs and uses, providing robust durability, safety from slips, but still provide welcoming good looks.ApproachThe project was designed by W E Architecture Ltd and the build was completed by Borras Construction Ltd, with flooring installed throughout by HC Coverings Ltd, using Mapei floor preparation products.SolutionResilient flooring was specified throughout the centre and installed over underfloor heating. Designs specified throughout the 500 square metre area included Altro Wood in the communal areas, Altro Aquarius in the toilets, showers and changing rooms and Altro Walkway 20 in corridors and back-of-house areas.

St. Modwen is a logistics and housebuilding developer with a rich 30-year history. At the head office in Birmingham, partitioning expert Style worked with contractor, Claremont, to offer flexibility in the meeting and training room.Separating the space, a Dorma Hüppe Variflex solid moveable wall was chosen as the best solution. Creating an impressive 55dB acoustic divide, meetings and training sessions can take place either side of the wall without any sound interference.With a chic, white finish, the wall complements the simple, clean interior décor and, thanks to the quality of all Dorma Hüppe moveable wall solutions, it can be opened and closed smoothly and effortlessly to divide the space when required.St. Modwen has over 700 employees and operates across two dedicated business units: St. Modwen Homes is an award-winning housebuilder whilst St. Modwen Logistics, deliver and manage future-proofed warehousing and logistics spaces where businesses can thrive. Aiming to support their core values, the refurbished head office embraces modern workplace principles, offering a variety of flexible and productive spaces perfect for collaborative endeavour.“As the UK’s market leading specialist, we offer a range of moveable, folding and partitioning walls for all requirements and budgets,” explained Steve Williams, Style’s sales director for the Midlands.“This is a great example of a practical solution that offers St. Modwen staff the ability to change the use of the space multiple times a day, if required, and get the most out of their meeting and training room by being able to cater for gatherings of different sizes.”Style is the exclusive UK partner to Dorma Hüppe, Skyfold and SWG and is a 12 times winner of the prestigious FIS Contractors Gold award. Essential for anyone seeking solutions for BREEAM, LEED and SKA, Style leads the way with sustainable moveable wall solutions and is the only UK partitioning specialist that is accredited under the ISO 14001:2004 Environmental Management System.

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

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

Shower and changing facilities bind practicality and design at this new-build office development in Smithfield. At The Haymarket Building, practicality meets excellent design, and Architects Reddy Architecture + Urbanism have created a sophisticated space that the tenants can be proud of. The building is accessed via an impressive double-height lobby, and this grandeur is maintained throughout the entire building, including the washrooms.Split over two floors, the basement houses a gym and self-contained male and female changing rooms with a separate toilet block on the upper basement level. Venesta’s Unity Full Height cubicle range was the product of choice for the designers of this project, due to its versatility.Model Z Active 400mm Bench Lockers were specified for both the male and female changing rooms. The unique Z-shaped locker provides space for storing bags and hanging clothes and has the benches integrated into the locker units saving on floor space for a minimalist room layout. The Model Z Active Lockers come readily constructed for quick, easy installation and are finished in SGL making them hardwearing, impact and scratch resistant.  Read the full case study for more details.

Over 100m2 of Gerflor’s newest loose-lay innovation Taralay Libertex has been installed at Alverton Woodland Nursery, Cornwall. The refurbishment solution was a fast-track product that saved the End User significant install time with minimal disruption on site.Taralay Libertex provides installers with a rapid, high quality, easy-to-lay flooring product. It’s where practicality meets creative flair head-on to provide a harmonious union. Taralay Libertex is the ideal flooring choice when time really is money, providing up to a 30% saving on installation costs for new builds and renovations as it can be laid directly onto most existing or uneven subfloors.Taralay Libertex features a new generation of textile backing across the sheet vinyl range, specifically developed for commercial applications such as education, hospitality and shops, offices, care homes, together with housing and common areas.

Capstone Farm Country Park covers 114 hectares of former farmland set on the North Downs. There is a variety of habitats within the park, including ancient woodlands, old orchards, a freshwater lake, meadows and hedgerows.DCM worked on the project with HAGS, installing Rubber Mulch to the playground. Natural colours were chosen for the playground, blending in with the surrounding scenery and play equipment. Leaf graphics were created using both Rubber Mulch and Wetpour, bringing life and depth to the park.The Head of Regeneration at Medway Council commented:“Capstone Farm Country Park is one of Medway’s seven Green Flag parks. Thousands of people visit the park each year and we are delighted to have installed new play equipment and surfacing graphics for children to enjoy. I would like to thank our contractors for all their hard work.”

The challengeSome of the venues had mixed conventional warm air hand dryers varying from 2kw to 2.5kw rated power with 30 to 45 second drying cycles. Some units were manual operation so continued to use energy while not in use. Typical energy consumption was 20 to 30 watt-hours per dry.“The Turboforce were selected because of their high energy efficiency, the units have been well received in all our sites and the upgrade has massively improved the perception of our washroom facilities and cut energy use by 90% compared to our previous hand dryers”S.Midgley - Deputy Head of Estates, Sheffield City TrustWho are Sheffield City Trust?It was established in 1990 with a mission to improve the health and wellbeing of the people of Sheffield. It manages the venues that were built for the 1991 World Student Games and has acquired many more since. It has millions of people through its doors each year with over 15 sport, leisure and entertainment venues under the Sheffield City Trust umbrella.The solutionEnergy efficient, high speed Turboforce hand dryers were installed. All units start immediately when hands are placed under and stop as soon as they are removed. Typical energy consumption is 2.33 to 5.33 watt-hours per dry.Model: Dryflow TurboforceDry time range: 10-15 secondsRated power: 350W – 1600W (4 settings available)Guarantee length: 5 yearsThe results“IFS carried out a comprehensive site survey of all our facilities which highlighted the inefficiency of the current hand dryers. They had an excellent range of hand dryers designed to suit the rigours of intense use and were even able to make technical adjustments to the product to specifically meet our requirements.” S.Midgley - Deputy Head of Estates, Sheffield City TrustThe total project was calculated to cost £38,000 and deliver a £10,000 per annum saving, (3.8 year payback period). Total CO2 reduction was calculated at 51 tCO2e perannum.

Schöck solution combines architecture with horticultureThe striking facade of this building in Berlin is the concept of Sergej Dott, a locally-based pop art painter who chose medicinal herbs to represent the building's use as a major medical centre. The Treptow Medical Centre, named after the district in which it is located, is a 19th century listed building and recent refurbishment work has seen the interior transformed into twelve surgeries and a pharmacy. The final flourish of the restoration activity is the addition of the pop art herbs, each one metre in diameter, up to twelve metres high and 600kgs in weight, all grouped around three sides of the building.To incorporate them into the structural design, additional steel beams had to be installed inside the building at varying floor levels and Lorenz Linnhoff, whose engineering firm carried out the structural planning for the building comments: "The optimum solution for fastening the giant flowers to the building envelope was the Schöck Isokorb® T type S, which made it possible to transfer the load of the flower installation via the steel beams to the load-bearing building".The Isokorb® T type S has been developed to create thermal breaks in steel structures, where the modules are used to transfer tensile forces and pressure/shear forces. With this application the product is used only for the latter purpose, as on this occasion it has to perform a structural function rather than ensure thermal partition. Each flower is connected by two T type S modules at the top of the stalk and their modular capability meant that off-site pre-fabrication was possible, helping to reduce on-site costs. Two head plates were welded to the stalks off site and another two head plates attached to the main steel structure with the T type S modules bolted to them. Then flower stalk was then lifted into position and the two plates simply bolted to the exterior connections of the T type S units. The community arts and culture scene in Treptow will benefit too, as each of the herbs is to be sponsored, with the proceeds donated to various art institutions.

As a project local to Vincent Timber here in Birmingham, this was quite an exciting one for us. Contractors Design and Build worked alongside architects Piper Whitlock on behalf of Harvest on this stunning, 30-acre regeneration project, which was formerly an industrial site.The project is a joint Sainsbury's and Landsec venture which features 250,000 sq. ft. of retail and leisure buildings. As you may imagine, the large onsite Sainsbury's, erected upon stilts, is an impressive feature building.“It was very exciting working on this large-scale project, especially with the unique solar shading we created. Being built locally meant it was great to see the site as it progressed.”  - Malcolm Frowen, Head of Cladding and Brise Soleil Sales @ Vincent TimberWhat You'll Find Here The Sainsbury's site not only features an unforgettable glazed movement atrium, most of its elevations are also clad in beautiful vertical timber strips. Other retailers include Next, Marks & Spencer and JD Sports while Nando's and Costa provide a fuel break from all the shopping fun. All of which are fronted with aesthetically pleasing solar shading created using our Sivalbp timber.Design and aesthetic have been a huge focus of this project, combining many wonderful materials and features while heavily incorporating the Worcester and Birmingham canal to create a unique experience that's so much more than shopping. Whilst there is parking for 860 cars onsite, the canal side square connects the site to the centre of Selly Oak, providing easy access for pedestrians and cyclists too. Thanks to its environmentally friendly design this project has a Very Good BREEAM rating. About SivalbpVincent Timber is the UK's sole distributor of Sivalbp, a modern production facility based in the South of France.The facility combines the latest technology in wood processing, with high quality pre-coating preparation and sophisticated environmentally friendly coating methods to produce a range of coated products that are both high performance and aesthetically pleasing.Many profiles can be secret fixed, avoiding visible nail heads and protecting the integrity of the coating.

It has been five years since the redevelopment and renovation of the female and male shower and changing rooms in the health hub at All Saints Hotel, Golf and Spa.This modern hotel has something for everyone, set in the countryside, it is a peaceful vacation spot close by to beautiful villages, towns and cities. We had a nice revisit at the golf club and installed some more leisure lockers.All Saints hotel has been expanding ever since, and we’ve been asked to come back to manufacture and install additional lockers for the health hub changing areas. Helmsman supplied two-compartment leisure lockers. These lockers have specifically been made to provide secure storage for spa users in a wet environment. These two-compartment leisure lockers differ in colour and have engraved numbering and ‘SPA’ to differentiate between the gym lockers and spa lockers to benefit customers.Five years on, Helmsman lockers and cubicles installed back in 2016 are in good condition considering the high usage from All Saints customers. We take pride in producing high-quality products. We love working with a local business and look forward to many more years of working together.

The team at Moorlands Lodge Care Home, situated in the Surrey South Downs are there to welcome you for a guided tour around the home and discuss your specific care needs.Moorlands Lodge Care Home sits in a beautiful rural location, surrounded by local places of interest including National Trust properties, gardens, and art galleries, and with excellent transport links to nearby Guildford and London. Only a stone’s throw from the bustling market towns of Haslemere and Farnham, Moorlands Lodge Care Home offers a warm and welcoming environment and the very best in residential care, nursing care and dementia care. With 97 rooms, residents can choose between one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and studio apartments, all with en-suite shower rooms and some with kitchenettes.The Una was used in this building. The Una is a timber leaf riser door system with a concealed metal frame. Provided as a full metal door set, made to size and delivered to site as a flat-packed kit prepared for all ironmongery. The wood door leaf comes with hinge cut-outs and can be primed for on-site finishing or pre-finished in our factory. Choose from non-fire rated or fire rated to E30 or E60.

Tower Supplies is an industry leader in PPE and workwear.They desperately needed to bring their office up to date to be in line with their operation.There was a need to have a functional office whilst maintaining a hardworking culture. Tower spent time and money with three other office design specialists, on all accounts the designs and solutions blew their budget putting the project out of reach.How we helpedThrough workshops and consultancy we were able to provide a 3 phase project that would provide Tower with the facility they required whilst still operating.We are able to provide a large multi-purpose workspace with kitchen, lunch area, directors offices, presentation area with moving partition, washrooms, shower rooms, reception and meeting spaces.By value engineering the project we were able to provide, within budget, an office with a modern and professional design that reflected the companies industrial roots. We ProvidedOffice DesignSpace Planning / 3D VisualsElectrics and LightingFlooringMoving PartitionsGlass PartitionsCeilingsBespoke JoineryWashroomsFitted FurnitureAudio VisualReception AreasKitchen & Breakout SpaceAgile WorkspaceDecorationAcoustic BafflesAir-ConditioningBlinds

Residents benefit from space-saving PEGASOS in apartment buildingElegant apartment building in the modern residential area of Königstein gets more parking space through boundary development with PEGASOS car lift.In the wooded slopes of the Taunus mountains in the catchment area of Frankfurt lies the climatic health resort of Königstein. People who want to escape the big city find a pleasant home in this modern and preferred residential area outside of Frankfurt. Rents have been rising throughout the Frankfurt area for many years. Also in Königstein rents are well above the average in Germany. Lödige Fördertechnik GmbH supplied a PEGASOS car lift for an apartment house in Koenigstein, Germany. The lift is used as an access to the garage in the basement.Creating attractive living space despite rising rentsMany residents and commuters in this region are dependent on own cars because of public transport connections. Anyone who has visited Königstein is familiar with the parking conditions: hilly, narrow streets lead to a low number of parking spaces. The owner of this project was faced with the question of how living space could be designed attractively despite the rising prices and lack of parking spaces?The Karl Dudler Architects had a vision for the centrally located private building in the heart of Königstein: a modern and comfortable apartment building with straight and clear structures, consisting of 2- and 4-room flats.Installed in November 2014, Lödige Industries was able to successfully implement the architects' vision with the PEGASOS ® car lift. As the shaft head in this project was installed outside the building and thanks to the narrow shaft geometry of the lift, it looks like a single garage from the outside when equipped with roller doors, which underlines the modern design of the building. The PEGASOS car lift also stands out for its ease of installation, as this model does not require a pit and can thus reduce underground engineering costs. Also, a machine room is not required. Residents can easily reach the desired floor with the help of a remote control.  The building, which was completed in November 2014, is a KfW Efficiency House (55). Thanks to reduced drive power and higher efficiency, the PEGASOS is significantly more energy-efficient than hydraulic car lifts and can therefore also be used in KfW-efficient houses, as here in Königstein.We are pleased to have achieved an all-round positive result for the customer. The car lift is maintained by Lödige Industries as part of a service contract.Application of the elegant, space-saving solutionDue to the surroundings and the layout of the building, the owner was looking for a space-saving parking solution. The property did not have a straight side boundary. The PEGASOS® car lift offers the ideal solution for, this situation, because due to its low shaft head height, this model can be used as a boundary construction.The parking space regulations in Königstein set a precise number or parking spaces for residential buildings, which could not be achieved here using the conventional way, an access ramp. Thus, the owner was threatened with a high redemption sum.The owner could reduce civil engineering costs due to the simple installation and the fact that this model does not require a pit.Compared to hydraulic car lifts, the PEGASOS is significantly more energy-efficient thanks to reduced drive power and higher efficiency.Due to the outside installed shaft head and the narrow shaft geometry of the lift, it looks like a single garage from the outside when equipped with elegant roller doors.

In the world of education, the physical environment plays a crucial role in shaping the learning experiences of students. To ensure that every child has equal access to education, the Department for Education (DfE) in the United Kingdom has laid down comprehensive guidelines for the design and construction of school buildings. Two key documents, BB103 and BB104, stand at the forefront of this initiative, setting standards to promote inclusivity and accessibility within educational settings.BB103 | Designing Accessible School BuildingsFor mainstream schools, BB103 mandates the inclusion of accessible facilities to accommodate pupils, students, staff, and visitors with disabilities. Crucially, this includes the provision of a specialist hygiene room equipped with either a fixed or mobile hoist, alongside ample space for assistants to facilitate the changing process.In primary schools, the hygiene room must span a minimum of 9m² and feature essentials such as a changing bed and accessible WC.Secondary schools, on the other hand, are required to allocate a minimum of 12m² for their hygiene rooms, which should additionally incorporate an accessible shower, sluice toilet, and changing trolley. These specifications are designed to ensure that hygiene rooms meet the unique needs of students across different age groups and educational settings.According to recent statistics from the DfE, approximately 14.1% of children in the UK have special educational needs, highlighting the critical importance of ensuring that school environments are inclusive and supportive.BB104 | Catering to Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)BB104 further refines the standards for hygiene rooms in special schools and alternative provisions (APs). For non-ambulant special schools or units, the guideline stipulates the provision of one hygiene room for every 12 non-ambulant pupil places. These rooms must be equipped with a fixed hoist, a changing bed, a wash hand basin, an accessible WC, and an accessible shower, underscoring the comprehensive support required for students with profound disabilities.In ambulant special schools and APs, one hygiene room per setting is mandated, featuring either a fixed or mobile hoist, a changing bed, a wash hand basin, and an accessible WC.Additionally, all hygiene rooms are required to have facilities for waste disposal, such as a sluice or equivalent, to maintain hygiene standards and ensure the efficient management of waste.Conclusion | Building for a Brighter FutureAs educators and stakeholders in the education sector, it is our collective responsibility to champion inclusivity and accessibility in every aspect of school design and construction. By understanding and implementing the guidelines outlined in BB103 and BB104, we pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future where every child has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.How can we help? Our skilled team have many years’ experience of planning and installing equipment within public environments such as schools and universities. Please do get in touch if you need help or advice with your project or further support on the Government requirements for equipment that needs to be installed to support SEND students.

Niche Living Dun Laoghaire embarked on a project to provide optimal ventilation solutions for private ensuite studios within their accommodation complex. The objective was to ensure excellent indoor air quality and comfort for residents. Key to this endeavor was the implementation of Lunos Continuous Mechanical Extract Ventilation (CMEV) technology, featuring a carefully selected array of units to address unique spatial challenges.Ventilation System ComponentsThe project hinged on the integration of specific components and products:1. Lunos Silvento V-EC FK Extract FansPurpose: Silvento V-EC FK extract fans were strategically chosen to facilitate efficient ventilation in the living/sleeping rooms of the accommodation complex. These units served as the primary extraction source, ensuring the continuous flow of fresh air.Energy Efficiency: The EC (Electronically Commutated) motors in the Silvento FK extract fans were a pivotal choice for energy efficiency. These motors significantly reduced energy consumption, contributing to sustainability goals and lower operating costs.Advanced Control: The control boards integrated into the Silvento FK units featured advanced capabilities for automatic extraction rate adjustment based on real-time air quality data. This responsive system ensured consistent indoor air quality even during environmental fluctuations.2. Twin Room Converter KitPurpose: The Twin Room Converter Kit was employed to optimize the extraction process. This kit allowed for the extraction of air from a hallway-separated W/C, located across the entrance hallway, in addition to the extraction above a shower unit.3. Lunos ALD Passive Intake UnitPurpose: The ALD unit was employed to ensure a constant supply of fresh, filtered outdoor air, supplementing the extraction process. It played a crucial role in maintaining balanced ventilation.Sound and Wind Protection: The ALD units were selected for their sound and wind protection features. These features ensured a comfortable passive intake of fresh, filtered air while minimizing noise and drafts, enhancing resident comfort and satisfaction.The challengeThe primary challenge of the project was to design and implement a ventilation system that effectively ventilated both the living/sleeping rooms and the technically separate “Wet rooms” (W/C and shower). Compliance with designed flow rates was paramount to ensure optimal indoor air quality and regulatory adherence.Spatial Ventilation Complexity: Overcoming the spatial complexity required a dual extraction point system, enabling simultaneous extraction from a shower unit and a W/C across the entrance hallway. The use of the Twin Room Converter Kit facilitated cost-effective compliance with flow rate regulations for the technically separate “Wet rooms.”Compliance with Flow Rate Regulations: Ensuring compliance with extract rates at both extract vent locations demanded meticulous control. Maximum extract flow rates were precisely adjusted via control dip switches, a central element in the project’s success.Maintenance and Operational Ease: The ease of maintenance and operational efficiency was a critical consideration. All units, including the Silvento FK extract fans, featured easily accessible washable filters on the room side, simplifying maintenance and ensuring a continuous healthy airflow with minimal operational disruptions.The SolutionSpatial Ventilation Complexity: A unique system was devised to accommodate a Silvento extract above a shower unit while simultaneously extracting from the W/C across the entrance hallway. This configuration leveraged the ability to duct from a single extract point to the Silvento UP housing unit, effectively achieving two extraction points for the same fan unit. This cost-effective solution ensured compliant flow rates from the technically separate “Wet rooms.”Compliance with Flow Rate Regulations: Maximum extract flow rates were meticulously adjusted via control dip switches, ensuring strict compliance with extract rates at both extract vent locations.Maintenance and Operational Ease: All units, including the Silvento FK extract fans, were purposefully designed with easily accessible washable filters on the room side. This design streamlined maintenance procedures, guaranteeing an uninterrupted, healthy airflow with minimal operational disruptions.Automatic Boosting: The FK control board’s advanced features enabled automatic boosting of the Silvento extract fan. This innovation eliminated the need for manual user intervention to boost the extract fan, whether through a manual switch or a light switch. Instead, onboard sensors seamlessly reacted to air quality levels and autonomously increased the extraction rate until the unit’s control system was satisfied that indoor air quality had returned to acceptable levels. This automation significantly enhanced the system’s effectiveness.Partel Services ProvidedPartel’s comprehensive services played a pivotal role in the project’s successful execution:Initial Design and Layout: Partel provided expert guidance to ensure that the ventilation system complied with Part F regulations. The initial design and layout phase were instrumental in setting the project on the path to success.Technical Support: Extensive technical support was offered to the on-site contractor tasked with installing the Lunos system. This support encompassed guidance on placement, wiring, and control board configuration.2nd Fix Commissioning: During the second fix phase, Partel conducted the commissioning of the Silvento and ALD units. This involved ensuring correct installation and flow rates were achieved to comply with Part F regulations.Maintenance and Service: To maintain a positive and enduring working relationship with Niche Living, Partel offered ongoing maintenance and service support. This commitment ensured the continued functionality and efficiency of the ventilation system.ConclusionThe Niche Living Dun Laoghaire project is a testament to the successful integration of advanced CMEV technology to address unique ventilation challenges. The technical details of the Silvento FK units, Twin Room Converter Kit, ALD-R 160 units, and the intelligent control mechanism underscore how innovative ventilation solutions can achieve compliance, comfort, and superior indoor air quality in residential environments. Through careful planning, precise control, and ongoing support, Partel’s solutions continue to elevate indoor air quality standards, ensuring healthier and more comfortable environments for occupants.

This project consisted of many Helmsman products, with lockers, cubicles, vanity units and IPS panels being supplied. Alongside the team at Mixbrow Construction and Ipswich Town FC, we designed, manufactured and installed 8 bespoke 1 compartment laminate lockers, 1775mm high x 400mm wide x 500mm deep on a cantilevered seat stand. The theme of the changing rooms was kept slick and professional, with See Group’s Biocarbon Laminate used in colour Gabbro. This fantastic carbon neutral laminate is strong, moisture resistant, easy to clean and has antibacterial protection, perfect for a changing room project. The locks chosen for the lockers were Lowe and Fletcher 2800 combination locks, also a great choice for the coaches’ changing rooms.Whilst we offer a wide range of cubicle options, we worked with the team at Mixbrow Construction to design a bespoke floor to ceiling cubicle to fit their needs. The changing room design featured 2 Bespoke Floor to Ceiling shower cubicles and 1 Bespoke Floor to Ceiling Toilet Cubicle. Also included in the project were 4 sets of IPS (Integrated Plumbing System) Panels and a Solid Grade Laminate Vanity unit, all in matching Solid Grade BioCarbon Laminate in colour Gabbro.

St. Enodoc golf club is famous for its panoramic views, perfect lawns and luxury days out. In between the Cornish rain showers this team of Camel Glass installers managed to install the MEGAgrip frameless glass balustrade to the newly refurbished roof terrace at St Enodoc golf club. A strong glass outdoor safety barrier providing shelter from the wind to people outdoors enjoying the view of the sea and watching the golf. The customers wanted a commercial grade frameless glass balustrade with no handrails, instead of the traditional style of galvanized railing. MEGAgrip was used in this situation due to its force loading capability and ability to hold Centryglas ensuring it’s safe to use at this height and location. This MEGAgrip safety screen posed some challenges for Andrew, John and John, the installers, the heavy glass needed to be taken high in the air to reach the scaffolding platform. Using a telehandler they managed, to lift the glass safely into position. However, there was another challenge waiting, the initial installation of steel was slightly misshapen, meaning the original fitters had to return to rectify the problem and therefore delayed the glass balustrade completion.  Even so, the MEGAgrip installation was completed successfully and fulfilled the customer brief. Now, the balcony is a very enjoyable spot to sit and watch the golfers on the course.

GOplastic Ltd were contacted by the Head of Estates and Campus Services Donna Vallance.The University’s requirements were for the supply of sustainable and environmentally friendly seating and tables for their London Campus buildings, based near India Dock in East London.A site meeting was agreed and proved to be extremely important for this project. The terrace had a narrow width which meant the correct size and arrangement of seating was essential.The terrace is on the 7th floor of the building, so this also needed considered planning in relation to delivery and installation.To overcome these challenges, GOplastic offered the Canvas Table and Canvas 120 benches. The Canvas bench and table are part of the Govaplast® range of award winning recycled plastic products. A distinct advantage for this project is the Canvas range can be delivered in semi kit form and easily transported to the 7th floor in the internal service lifts.Seating and tables to accommodate up to 50 people were delivered and installed in just one day.Job type: Supply and installWaste plastic prevented from landfill: 1.7 tonnes.

The aesthetics of this new brewery in Ashford were incredibly important to the overall design process, with no detail left unchecked - including the style of the fastener heads used to fix the impressive jet black cladding panels.Designed by Guy Holloway Architects, the Curious Brewery combines two functions in a single 'supershed' - alongside the stainless pipes and vats of the production facility is a visitor attraction comprising space for tastings, a shop, restaurant, and bar. The building makes a bold statement about modern brewing in Britain with a suitably 'curious' black façade, which gives little away until visitors step inside where it then opens up the modern brewing process to visitors - with an immersive approach to the brand experience. "We are extremely impressed with the aesthetically pleasing fasteners chosen for this project. Fixfast colour coated low profile fasteners and washers with very little lead time were a cost-effective solution to an aesthetically pleasing building" Jamie Cook - Managing Director at TLC Industrial Roofing & Cladding

CAT stair nosings have been installed into one of the Worlds first purpose-built meeting facilities based in Westminster, London.​AN69 was the main section to fit the rounded step edge, then aluminium extension piece ANEXT creating a wider tread connected to an ANRE25 ramp edge at the back covering the safety vinyl flooring. Finally, the robust Aluminium ATI49.5 aluminium inserts were inserted into the tread of the AN69 to conceal the screw head fixings and give an all-aluminium finish.​Opening in 1912, the Great Hall has an impressively long history for hosting various events, the first meeting of the United Nations in 1946, debates, concerts and shelter for Londoners during the second world war.​Situated in the venues undercroft, Wesley’s Cafe is a hot spot for visitors and especially popular with tourists, the cafe covers over 300m2 and also is adjacent to further event space. Due to the entrance into the cafe is via a staircase, the constant high footfall called for a stair nosing made up from a combination of our Aluminium products.

Over the last decade, Twinfix have installed 10 canopies on five separate occasions at Green Lane Community Special School, part of Woolston Learning Village in Holes Lane, Warrington.The initial project involved fitting a 35m long 2m wide walkway on this school, and another 32m walkway at the adjacent school on the site, both designed to provide under cover access between car drop-off and the school buildings. Twinfix were approached by main contractor ISG Construction Ltd from Salford to design, manufacture and install these as part of their overall task to refurbish the old Woolston High School campus back in 2014.Since the original project, Twinfix have been invited back on four more occasions by Head Teacher, Paul King to install further canopies. Most recently a free-standing mono-pitch canopy spanning 80 square-metres.All the canopies designed, manufactured and installed by Twinfix have aluminium frames powder coated in blue RAL 5010. As this metal doesn’t rust in use, they will keep their good looks throughout their long life. The roof glazing consists of Twinfix Multi-Link-Panels NF fitted with tough 25mm opal multiwall polycarbonate. The NF denotes that these panels conform to the HSE’s recommended drop test ACR[M]001:2019, as recommended by HSG33. This is particularly important where access could be gained to the overhead glazing.Vertical glazing was included in the design of the walkways at the school which provides additional weather protection, while the canopies providing shelter in play areas were fitted with post protectors to guard the children from bumps and bangs.Paul King Head Teacher explains: “We cater for children from 3 to 18 years old. They’re not like children in a main-stream school, they’re vulnerable and they all have special needs. We wanted them to have covered access to the outside throughout the year and these canopies have enabled us to achieve this. Our children have to be taught how to play and having such large, safe protected outside areas gives us the space to do this. All the areas had to be closed off from pupils for installing the footings for the post supports and again for the actual build – but Twinfix were very accurate in the timings they gave us and they were finished within their promised timeframe. “

North City Operation Depot is a dedicated staff-only depot facility will comprise of an office and welfare building with briefing rooms, training rooms, office accommodation, a serviced canteen, locker rooms, shower facilities, laundry facilities and drying room. The depot is to provide high quality facilities to enable staff to operate more safely, efficiently, and essentially so the City Council meets its climate action targets, based in Ballymun, Dublin.The client requested for leisure lockers with rolled carcases which helps with keeping the lockers dust free, with the measurements to be 1450mm high, 450mm wide and 500mm deep with the colour mixed between Fundermax and Poleyrey. The colours are mixed with wood effect and beige laminate. Within the lockers they decided to have shelves and internal dividers, additionally, in changing rooms they requested shelves, mirrors and drying racks which are 600mm deep, 2450mm long and 2000mm high powder coated in ‘Ice’.Within the leisure lockers they decided to go with was KitLock KL1200 which can keep the staff belonging secure within the lockers. The seat stands which were cladded with beige laminate, additionally having seat slats made with Fundermax wood effect.It was great working with Purcell Construction LTD on the project and wish North City Operation Depot much success in the future.If you have a similar project or need some information on the products, contact us today at 01284 530 427.

Our small bathroom design may only be 160 x 170cm, but for me, it’s perfectly formed in every way. You can reach both arms across and touch either side of the room, but that’s not actually what you immediately notice when you step through the door. Instead, you see a generous frameless skylight flooding the space with natural light, a wall of tactile sage green tiles and the unusual choice of a green sink paired with an off white floating vanity unit. I spent so long considering all the little details – from matching my grout to my silicone, to lining up the tiles perfectly – that size, here, really doesn’t matter.There’s a lot I learnt during the process of designing my own small bathroom design, so I thought I would share all my lessons and top tips in case you’re planning a space of a similar size. We don’t all have huge mansions, bedrooms we can convert into bathrooms or space enough for a roll-top bath and a shower. Most of us are working with tricky layouts and tight floorpans, trying to maximise the space we’ve got. Don’t be disheartened with your small bathroom, there’s a lot you can do to make it feel light, airy, uplifting and inspiring.

Altro solution brings life to design-led Hull birth centreA complete floors and walls solution from Altro has been used to create a relaxing, stylish home from home environment for mums-to-be in a new birth centre at Hull Women and Children’s Hospital.The new midwife-led Fatima Allam Birth Centre meets the needs of women who want a more natural childbirth experience.Andrew Ledger, contracts manager for Apleona, which provides facilities management for the building, oversaw the new construction and was part of the team that devised the overall concept.“We specified Altro floors and walls from the start because we are using these products elsewhere in the hospital with a great deal of success. They meet all our clinical hygiene and infection control needs, while also offering a superb range of colours and textures, which makes them ideal for creating a modern and stylish environment.“The quality and durability of Altro is a major factor too because, as a PFI project, the long-term cost is under close scrutiny.Adele Howitt, from Studio Eleven Gallery & Workshop in Hull, won a commission from the hospital to design the interior concept.“Once we had decided on colours, we worked closely with Altro to look at the specific products. They completely understood our practical and aesthetic needs.”“I used Altro Whiterock Digiclad to create statement walls from floor to ceiling. This is a fantastic product for design-led projects because you can print any image or photograph onto it, and the quality is superb.”Adele chose Altro Whiterock Satins for the shower rooms. She says “It has some wonderful shades, and the subtle, sheer texture is very stylish.”Flooring for the birth centre was key to creating the homely, nonclinical feel. Andrew Ledger and the project team wanted natural, warm, wood-effect flooring and chose Altro Wood.Andrew says: “Wet areas in clinical environments need to be very safe underfoot, so we chose Altro Pisces safety flooring for both the shower rooms and around the birthing pool. This flooring performs superbly in both wet or dry conditions, and with bare feet or shoes, so it’s perfect for keeping both patients and staff safe. Altro Pisces also looks good enough to work within our design themes and there are some great colours.”The flooring was installed by Floorcovers UK. Partner Phil Morris said: “For quality and reliability Altro is the best, and they are a pleasure to work with."The Altro wall sheet was fitted by Richardson Claddings. Owner Joe Richardson comments:“The beauty of the Altro walls system is that it is so quiet, easy and clean to install. Altro sends the sheets to us ready-cut, which means minimal cutting or shaping on site.”Andrew Ledger says: “We get a lot of medical professionals visiting from around the world and they say the centre is the best of its kind they have seen anywhere.“Most importantly, the mothers who have given birth here are thrilled with it too.“After each birth, the rooms are completely disinfected and cleaned, and the Altro floors and walls are proving very easy to maintain.“We are delighted with this amazing facility.”

With the business growing at a rapid rate, the firm has expanded its head office to a purpose-built facility which also incorporates a store, café, and an external garden centre.To make the most of its prominent location at the entrance to the new Seaton Hill development, the building was designed to showcase the brand’s iconic identity. The facade of the offices and warehouse are clad primarily in a palette of blacks and greys using Kingspan Dri-Design Flat Cassettes for the office element and QuadCore AWP Wall Panels for the large retail section. This neutral palette provides the perfect backdrop for more colourful facade elements of royal blue and bright orange which ‘pop out’ from the envelope, both literally and visually. These elements include a ribbon style wrapping which recreates a heart-beat reading and symbolises the HQ’s position as the “heartbeat of Derriford”. This dramatic treatment also helps to break-up the massing of the site.  Selecting all these materials from a single supplier also help to simply logistics, minimise onsite waste and ensure complete compatibility between the elevations.

Now reimagined as The Edinburgh Grand, the formerA-listed RBS head office built between 1938 and 1942 is animpressive building situated on St Andrew Square. With manypieces of Victorian antique brass and pewter ironmongeryand hundreds of original period doors throughout, theironmongery solution had to accommodate the traditionalaesthetic and be fit for the many demands of a modern hotel.Allgood was commissioned by the project’s architect andinterior designer, both long term partners of Allgood; KarenBrown of Chris Stewart Group and Eirini Christodoulou ofMorgan McDonnell. With such a striking, but unusual finish,finding coordinated hardware was a challenge. Severaloptions were assessed before settling on a brass finishapplied to the Allgood door closers, cylinders and joinerysubcontractor’s hinges.A collection of classic Frank Allart handles was chosen for allapartment front doors, which also integrated with the hotel’saccess control system. To match the patina of the agedhandles, a satin nickel-plated surface was given a light bronzefinish to produce an aged nickel silver appearance. Thisunlacquered, ‘living’ finish, will oxidize and patinate naturallyover time.

The transformative effect of creative brickwork.A modern, five-storey building in London’s Fitzrovia that once paled in comparison to some of its more elegant neighbours is now arguably the street’s most striking resident.The Interlock is an outstanding example of what is possible when architect and clay brick manufacturer put their heads together.Forterra’s Technical team worked with architect Bureau de Change, drawing the building’s new façade brick for brick to ensure technical possibility and aesthetic ambitions aligned. It then fell to the team at Forterra’s Cradely Special Bricks facility to design and produce the bricks.Guided by 1: 1 templates the complex construction took three months to complete, as each of the 5,000 bespoke Etruria Clay Blue bricks was painstakingly laid to form the three-dimensional, interlocking pattern.We are proud to announce that The Interlock won three awards at the 2019 Brick Awards. The project won the prestigious Architects’ Choice award along with also winning in the Innovation and Small Housing Development categories.This project is a great example of a collaborative approach with our customers.

The Bourne Business Park in Weybridge Surrey has recently completed two new attractive office spaces totalling over 90,000 square feet. This smart office space built for La Salle Investment Management by Volker Fitzpatrick features new thinking in office design and features a range of metal fabrications on the external envelope manufactured and supplied by Metalline. Using high grade J57S UP aluminium, Metalline manufactured and supplied a range of aluminium pressed components. These included a specialist fascia panel that incorporated bespoke internal supports to ensure that the front face of the panels remained extremely flat together with heads, jambs and cills, for the window pods. To accentuate the flat clean lines of the building, Metalline produced a special secret internal dual toggle, which guaranteed that each panel was aligned correctly and there was uniformity across all the panels. Designed to attract the eye these smart office spaces feature panels and pressings finished in a specialist Regency Gold 2 anodised finish together with glazed in panels in RAL 7035 light grey that were also supplied by Metalline.