"fabric membrane buildings inflatable structures"

The ChallengeThe client’s requirements were to provide value for money and create a building that was easy to maintain and appropriate to its function and setting.Deafblind Scotland provided training for the architects so they could gain an appreciation of the barriers faced by those who would use the building. The design was then developed to satisfy funding requirements. Technology was utilised to assist the client’s team with visual impairment to understand the building layout.The SolutionWorking closely with the client the architects carefully selected materials, colours, stair detailing, thresholds and ironmongery. Our Welford Buff brick was chosen for the brickwork.Careful consideration was also given to the pedestrian route configuration that visitors would use when approaching the building – it was important to ensure a strong colour contrast between road and pedestrian walkway.Natural ventilation was maximised to reduce energy consumption and associated costs.The BenefitsThe 7,500 square foot building provides a centre of excellence for deafblind people with a hub for training and development. It is a daily resource for more than 300 deafblind people in the Glasgow area, and a further resource for the 2,700 people across Scotland who are severely dual sensory impaired.The project offers deafblind people more opportunities to learn, enjoy a range of subjects, collaborate, and to become more familiar with IT through the assistance of specially adapted technology and equipment.Feedback from building users has been extremely positive with the client remarking on the ease of way finding and legibility within the layout.

Although sustainable building is on the rise, large quantities of the harmful substances in some building materials still manage to slip through into new and refurbished buildings. In a new online theme from Troldtekt A/S, experts present their views on material health and indoor climate – and possible solutions to the challenges.   This problem exists because material health does not always have the same concern as, for example, acoustics, ventilation or daylighting. In an interview with Martha Lewis, head of materials at Henning Larsen Architects, the theme focuses on the health of building materials and their influence on indoor climate.  The theme also features inspiration from some European buildings which excel at being verifiably healthy and have Troldtekt acoustic solutions incorporated into their architecture. For example, it features the newly opened C2C lab in Berlin where all the materials meet the Cradle to Cradle Design criteria. These are valuable and much more detailed calculations than are available elsewhere.   Troldtekt, a leading developer and manufacturer of acoustic ceiling and wall solutions which contains no deleterious materials, wants to be specified for buildings that are healthy for their occupants. This is why the company is working strategically to support the third UN Sustainable Development Goal – ‘Good Health and Well-being.’ In practice is because their products contain no deleterious materials. This theme also explains how the recognised DGNB Certifications focuses on the health and comfort of building users. Specified throughout the UK and Europe, the benefits of 100% Troldtekt natural wood wool panels include high sound absorption, high durability, natural breathability, low cost life cycle performance and sustainability. Available in various sizes and in four grades from extreme  to coarse, the panels can be left untreated or painted in virtually any RAL colour. Samples, case studies and technical information are easily sourced from www.troldtekt.co.uk (tel 01978 664255) while information on Troldtekt’s building health theme can be found at https://bit.ly/2X50oS6Photo: Copyright: ©Kirstine Mengel.

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.

Some of our most important public sector assets are held within the healthcare system so choosing the correct specification is critical. Often these buildings host patients or the latest medical equipment, and this centrally funded NHS project at Chase Farm Hospital was no different. This particular project hosted an array of plant and equipment for the NHS and our lightweight DANOPOL HS 1.5mm mechanically fastened membrane was chosen as the waterproofing system to be installed onto the structural metal deck. The scheme also featured a tapered insulation scheme in partnership with Kingspan Insulation designed to 1:60 falls and 0.30 w/m2 K u-value. When installed to structural metal decks, all the mechanically fastened components are mechanically fastened to the crowns only, so careful consideration must be made to ensure that any mechanical fasteners coincide appropriately. A project-specific wind uplift calculation was completed by our technical team which provided detailed instructions and fastening patterns for the mechanical attachment of both the waterproofing membrane and tapered insulation scheme. In addition to ensuring that the system will resist any applicable windload, our calculations can reduce overall frequency of fasteners, ensuring that the project is not over-engineered and ensure that the installation progresses as quickly as possible.Waterproofing Systems:DANOPOL HS 1.5mm - Light GreyConstruction Type:New BuildWarm RoofSector: Public Sector Approx. Size:2,200m2 Warranty Period: 20 Years

When developing new buildings, it is always important to consider the environmental impact. Responsible sourcing of materials is high on every priority list, along with reducing waste to landfill. But what about the local impact, such as the effects on local wildlife? A living roof/green roof system, such as the one installed by the Premier Contractor at Seaford Head Golf Club, is a very clear example of the steps that can be taken towards reducing this impact and providing an alternative space for wildlife to inhabit. A warm roof system was installed onto a structural plywood deck, after which a vapour barrier and insulation boards were mechanically fastened to provide both thermal efficiency and air leakage control. After the underlying installation had been suitably restrained in accordance with a site-specific wind uplift calculation, the roof membrane was mechanically fastened to complete the waterproofing system. Our PVC roof membranes have been tested and can be utilised without the need for additional root prevention barriers (test standard EN 13948), and because PVC is extremely lightweight, they are the perfect choice for these applications, reducing pressure on the underlying structure. In conjunction with our Living Roof/Green Roof specialists, a site-specific living roof system was supplied and installed over the completed waterproofing.Waterproofing System:DANOSA Single Ply 1.5mm - AnthraciteConstruction Type:New BuildWarm RoofSector:LeisureApprox. Size:900m2Warranty Period:20 Years

This1970s dwelling in South Dublin’s suburbs was transformed and renovated to a modern detached, energy-efficient home and office. The ultimate aim of this project was to design a taller building, radically reduce the building’s energy consumption, maintain the structural integrity of the building fabric, increase thermal comfort for the occupants, and reduce carbon emissions.A suite of passive strategies was implemented to meet the requirements of the EnerPHit standard. The project incorporated superior airtightness, green thermal bridging solutions, blockwork insulation on the external structure, triple-glazed windows, and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery to attain an A3 energy efficiency rating.Creating an airtight and insulated building envelope is the cornerstone of a Deep Energy Retrofit. Partel’s IZOPERM PLUS phA certified airtight product system delivered maximum airtightness in The Willows project

The building will be complete this year, in order to support the growing demand for skilled workers in the Manchester region, for the creative, digital and tech sector. The project was design by FCBStudios, embracing digital innovation and UX lab, film studios, green screens, edit suites, music and production studios, alongside a screening room and gallery space. Effisus Breather FR-B System was appiled to ensure the protection of the building against driving rain and moisture preventing future corrosion, insulation deterioration and mould growth at the same time it increases the building energy efficiency and minimizes the condensation risk.

The University of Lincoln invested £19 million in the construction of the Sarah Swift Building which is home to the Schools of Health & Social Care and Psychology. Aluminium Visible Grid curtain walling, doors and windows were specified for this project, and were chosen due to their versatility and aesthetic qualities. This five-storey academic building houses a broad range of flexible learning spaces for students and staff - including new teaching areas, offices, clinical simulation facilities for the school's healthcare programmes and psychological laboratories for extensive research. Furthermore the building also includes the Professional Development Centre, a facility that provides ongoing training for professionals that require skills-based training. Visible Grid curtain walling also offers design flexibility. Available in a choice of glazing gaskets, it achieves superior load distribution and is suitable for flat or faceted facades.Technal’s aluminium doors and windows were also used throughout the building. The specified doors are ideal for high traffic applications and offer exceptional levels of security and thermal performance. The doors were also chosen as they meet the requirements of Part Q of the Building Standards, having achieved PAS 24:2016.

THE PROJECTFulwith Mill in Harrogate is located in an exclusive upmarket area – so much in fact, in 2019 Fulwith Mill Lane was named by Zoopla as the most expensive road in Yorkshire. For this new build project, Fosroc were asked to specify suitable products for the waterproofing aspect of the basement construction. The main challenges included a high water table, high clay concentration in surrounding area leading to a perched water table, and potential for hydrostatic pressure against the basement construction. Howard Civil Engineering was the main contractor for the project, with Fosroc being selected as materials supplier due to a long standing relationship between the companies, and a number of previous deployments.THE SOLUTIONFully bonded Proofex Engage membrane was used on the basement slab, combined with Supercast Watertight Concrete Powder (WCP) to provide a high level of resilience to both water ingress and potential defects. Supercast WCP is a concrete admixture that reduces porosity and permeability, increasing water and corrosion resistance. The vertical elements were cast in Supercast WCP with Proofex 3000, to provide a greater degree of flexibility to enable the contractor to install effectively in the tight spaces around the site, and around the complex shape of the structure. Proofex 3000 is a cold applied, highly flexible waterproof membrane – ideal for application of membrane around intricate building features.THE BENEFITSThe products specified for this project provided multi-layered and seamless protection to the underground element of this exclusive residence to meet stringent BS8102 Type A waterproofing standards. Proofex Engage provides water, water-vapour and gas protection to water excluding structures such as basements, and protects concrete from aggressive ground salts, chemicals and hydrocarbons. It is supplied with a self-adhesive strip on one side of the roll to provide sealed laps and comes with a range of auxillary products (for this project, Supercast SW20 Hydrophillic Waterstop) to form a complete waterproofing solution and simplify application for the contractor. Its unique mesh system bonds permanently to concrete, remaining in pace even if settlement takes place – the exceptionally high bond strength of Proofex Engage - 2.96kN, sets it apart from the competition, at 70% stronger than the leading chemically bonded membrane.

Cygnet Hospital, a new state of the art medical campus based in Maidstone required a waterproofing membrane for the newly installed concrete and metal decks. Proteus Waterproofing applied their Cold Melt® membrane, to provide a seamless leak protection to the inverted roof, that was then finished with Proteus Waterproofing’s Pro-Living® Green Roof. High Performance WaterproofingFirstly, the metal deck for the main roof was prepared and overlaid with Pro-Vapour Control SA, a self-adhesive bituminous waterproofing membrane that forms a barrier against vapour and gases, ready for the Proteus Pro-Therm PIR Insulation and Cold Melt® waterproofing installations.Proteus Pro-Therm PIR is stable, rot proof and will remain effective as an insulation system for the lifetime of the waterproofing covering, making it suitable for new builds. Cold Melt® waterproofing was then overlaid to the main roof and upstands. The exposed areas were covered with Cold Melt® UV Top Coat, making the waterproofing UV stable. Cold Melt® provides a seamless leak protection and is cold applied, therefore removing the risk of fire. The roof was completed with a Pro-Living® Green Roof providing ecological benefits for the building. Health and SafetyWhen working on occupied buildings, safety is of utmost importance. Proteus Waterproofing’s Cold Melt® system is cold applied and low odour, therefore meeting all necessary health and safety requirements. Cold Melt® is quick, simple and safe to apply allowing the Proteus Approved Contractor to successfully complete the project to a high standard within a short time frame, whilst ensuring the planned building works continued to run on schedule.Long Term PerformanceIncorporating recycled rubber crumb and organically grown products, Cold Melt® creates an elastomeric, seamless, cold applied waterproofing membrane. Cold Melt® system can include inverted roof insulation and, with or without insulation, can be designed as a paved, ballasted, green or brown roof. The membrane is made in the UK, does not become brittle with age and is BBA Certified to last the life of the structure.

The Helensburgh Waterfront Development project is about creating a vibrant and attractive waterfront for the town.The main feature of the £22 million development project will be a leisure facility operated by live Argyll. Incorporating a main swimming pool and teaching pool, two state-of-the-art fitness studios, a gym and a café all under one roof, with associated parking and a public realm to meet the needs of the local community and attract day visitors to Helensburgh.The state-of-the-art leisure facility is on track to open in 2022 and is set to provide residents and visitors with new swimming and studio pools and a gym and cafe with stunning views of the Clyde.We supplied and Installed Absorb-R SofTone acoustic wall panels to improve acoustic absorption by reducing reverberation and background noises, providing great psycho physical benefits for users.

Location: Maidstone, KentProject Type: HotelProduct: Dales Dove Gutter75mm Square Contemporary Rainwater PipeArchitect: D.L.A. ArchitectureSub Contractor: Hills Electrical & Mechanical

 Location: Waterside quarter, Crown Lane, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 1QRProject type: Mixed useProducts: Weatherstruck Coping SystemFascia Soffit SystemFinish: RAL 7015 MattFire Rating: A2 s1, d0 Non-combustible (Reaction to Fire EN BS 13501-1:2018)Architect: T.P. ArchitectsMain Contractor: Shanly Homes Thames ValleySub Contractor: John Nason Ltd Photography: a2n & John Nason Ltd

Location: Lyons Place, Westminster, London NW8 8NLProject Type: Mixed Use Development Cost: £36m Products: S-Canopy SFX Soffit Cladding, SFX Rainscreen Vertical Cladding, SFX Soffit Cladding, SFX Support System, Circular Column Casings Finish: S-Canopy, Soffit & Rainscreen: Syntha Pulvin RAL 9002 Matt Grey WhiteColumn Casing: Syntha Pulvin RAL 8080 Matt Metallic Bronze Fire rating: A2 s1, d0 Non-combustible(Reaction to Fire EN BS 13501-1:2018). Client: Almacantar Ltd Architect: Farrells Main Contractor: Galliford Try Sub Contractor: CCS Facades

Location: Upton Park, Green Street, London E13 9AXProject type: ResidentialProducts: Rainscreen PanelsSolar shading/Brise SoleilFinish: RAL 7031 MattProducts: Weatherstruck Coping SystemFinish: RAL 7006 SatinSatin RAL 7030 SatinRAL 7031 Matt Products: Kwikfix Soffit PlanksFinish: RAL 7030 MattFire Rating: A2 s1, d0 Non-combustible (Reaction to Fire EN BS 13501-1:2018)Architect: Goddard Manton PartnershipMain Contractor: Barratt Developments PLC (East London) Sub contractor: G.K. Engineering & Design Ltd  Photography: a2n

Location: New Road, Hoxton, London N1 6JAProject Type: Private, Shared Ownership & Social Rent Housing Development Cost: £40mProducts: Aluminium Vertical Solar Shading, SFX Fascia & Soffit Cladding to Terraces & Balconies, Weatherstruck Wall Copings, Curved Weatherstruck Wall Copings, Square Rainwater Pipes, Bespoke Rainwater HoppersFinish: Syntha Pulvin RAL 8080 Matt Metallic BronzeFire rating: A2 s1, d0 Non-combustible (Reaction to Fire EN BS 13501-1:2018). Client: LB of Hackney & Countryside Properties Plc Architect: Child Graddon Lewis LtdMain Contractor: Countryside Properties Plc Sub Contractor: Roweaver Developments Ltd

Project type: Freeport Location: Steelhouse Gateway, Teeside Project Cost: £2.5m Product: Shadex 150 (Drop-in Casette) Finish: Syntha Pulvin RAL 7022 Matt Umbra GreyProduct: Dales Sigma Fascia Finish: Syntha Pulvin RAL 7022 Matt Umbra Grey Product: Dales Lower FasciaFinish: Syntha Pulvin RAL 7030 Matt Stone Grey Fire Rating: A2 s1, d0 Non-combustible (Reaction to Fire EN BS 13501-1:2018) Client: Teesworks  Architect: POD Architects Contractor: Esh Group Sub Contractor: Entec Design Services Ltd

An architect designed, self-build house with annexe for a multi-generational family built to zero-carbon standards.The scheme’s design is influenced by the architectural vernacular of the area. The surrounding houses are a legacy of the Land Settlement Association scheme, with distinctive mansard roofs, steeply sloping gables and dormer windows, constructed in a simple red brick with terracotta plain tiles.The mansard is reflected in the new house with the roof extending down to form the walls. Instead of terracotta tiles, large format slate has been used to form a modern equivalent. The house is mainly slate tile; however, it was felt important to also reflect local brickwork. As such, brickwork was used for two huge brick-faced chimney stacks that rise through the gable.PROJECT INFOTo form a contrast with the very smooth grey of the slate, a textured red brick with slight colour variation was sought. White mortar lightens the brickwork while recessed mortar joints are used inside to provide shadow to each brick. Perforated brickwork surrounds the stone coping on both chimney stacks, adding visual interest to the building through both the materials and the shadows created by the brickwork perforations.The brick selected was stock thrown Hampton Rural Blend from Forterra’s Ecostock range. It has a rustic finish resembling handmade brick. Ecostock bricks are manufactured using the latest technology in sustainability and production efficiency, producing bricks with low embodied energy as well as advanced colour consistency, dimensional accuracy and quality.The structure incorporated huge amounts of insulation, a mechanical ventilation with heat recovery system, and a solar photovoltaic array at the bottom of the garden, along with a ground-source heat pump. These installations will ensure that the house generates more electricity than it could ever use.

Oakland Mews is a 21-plot residential development set within the village of Strumpshaw, Norfolk. Based on the site of a former factory, this high-quality development of detached and semi-detached dwellings delivers modern, spacious living, respectfully designed and crafted to the very highest specification using quality materials, including Hampton Rural Blend brick and Cradley Brick Specials, produced by Forterra.Aware of the site’s historic significance and agricultural location, the contractor, Total Build East Anglia Ltd, committed to using traditional materials and building methods that were in keeping with the area and delivered on its vision to bring an appealing and exclusive development to Strumpshaw.Total Build East Anglia Ltd consulted building materials supplier MKM Building Supplies Norwich to help find the appropriate bricks and tiles for the houses. It wanted a traditional red-brick style, which matched the look of a former factory that occupied the site previously and preserved the area’s heritage. Total Build selected the stock-thrown Hampton Rural Blend brick for the facing brick walls. The rustic red brick, tarnished with blackened flashes, perfectly complements the slate grey Cradley Brick Specials copings and cappings, and the dark timber cladding on the properties.Hampton Rural Blend is part of Forterra’s Ecostock range of pressed and thrown bricks manufactured at its Measham factory, which uses ground-breaking technology in sustainability and production efficiency to deliver advanced colour consistency, dimensional accuracy and quality.“An old factory used to be on the site of the development,” said Jason Hilldrup, Brick, Block, Tile and Architectural Masonry Specialist at MKM Norwich. “It was an attractive, traditional red-brick building, directors Andy Brown and Lindsey George of Total Build wanted to ensure the new development was in keeping with what had been there previously.“We reviewed some options together, looking for a brick that looked old and traditional, and they went for the Hampton Rural Blend facing brick and black-slate coloured Cradley Specials copings and cappings. The combination of the two flowed together nicely, and for the price and style, the bricks ticked all their boxes. The bricklayers and cream-coloured mortar choices have been great too. It’s come together really nicely, creating a fantastic site that has modern touches but keeps the traditional style.”

The ChallengeThe village of Ewerby sits within the heart of the Lincolnshire Fens, amidst a heavy farming community highlighted and punctuated by the local architecture.Historically, Lincolnshire villages produced their own, indigenous facing bricks from brick pits, and most farm buildings and tied cottages within this community are constructed from Ewerby Yellow facing brick. Together with local Ancaster limestone and handcrafted clay pantiles, this forms the pallet of materials that are considered indicative of the local vernacular architecture. As such, careful consideration needed to be given to the choice of materials used in building The Elms.The SolutionCombining existing detailing and colourings gave architects D.B. Lawrence Associates a strong initial concept for their first stage design process. Sourcing bricks and materials that blend with their surroundings can be challenging, but they were successful in achieving this for The Elms.A yellow stock brick sourced from Forterra was an important part of the concept. The brick was used alongside the use of local Lincolnshire limestone quarried seven miles away at Ancaster. Handmade clay pantiles were sourced to match existing roof tiles.The brickwork was constructed in English Bond to achieve the desired aesthetic and reflect the existing surrounding outbuildings.Complementary Stone quoins, cills and heads together with dog-tooth oversailing courses to the eaves and verges were also used.The brick chosen was Ardleigh Yellow Stock Brick from Ecostock. Ecostock is the most sustainable stock brick available in the UK. It is a high quality facing brick with recycled content. The range carries BES 6001 Responsible Sourcing certification.The BenefitsThe overall intention of the dwelling is to replicate a barn, and careful thought and detailing to the large openings have helped to create the desired effect.When approaching the village of Ewerby from Thorpe, the barn gives the impression of having been there for years, not months. The build has successfully fulfilled the requirements of the planners, and the client has contributed an inspiring development worthy of the village.

The Jubilee Building’s interiors promote calmness and healing.This new 3-storey modular building houses a mixture of paediatric, stroke care, rehabilitation and elderly care services. Specialist facilities include rehab gyms, a therapy kitchen and assisted ensuite bathrooms to accommodate patients that often may have dementia or other brain injuries.

J&P explored a number of possibilities with the precast contractor, Border Concrete Products and the main contractor Expanded Structures, culminating in a proposal to utilise J&P’s TSS invisible connectors. The innovative solution involved the TSS units being rotated through 90°, to accommodate the bearer within the slender 125mm rib section (see image above). The additional challenge of the supporting downstand being radiused was easily accommodated due to the flexibility of the TSS units, and the detailed dimensional/setting-out information provided by J&P to the contractors ensured accurate positioning for the varying angles required.

The £11.6 million regeneration scheme in Aylesbury saw a former MoD site managed by the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) transformed into an affordable and sustainable housing development, comprising 94 terraced houses and apartment blocks forming a continuous curved building. Named ‘The Serpentine’, this snaking housing project called for a flexible roofing solution! Sika Sarnafil single ply was specified for its flexibility and suitability to tricky detailing but the shape posed a number of technical challenges.

Location: Bexley, Greater LondonProject Type: EducationalDevelopment Cost: £1.1mProduct: Curved Plain Fascia with THX Soffit PanelsMeridian Wall CopingShadex 260 Drop-in Cassettes (Structural Steel Supports)Contemporary Rainwater Pipes​Finish: Syntha Pulvin RAL 7011 Matt Iron GreyFire rating: A2 s1, d0 Non-combustible (Reaction to Fire EN BS 13501-1:2018)Client: Beths Grammar School, BexleyArchitect: Ingleton Wood ArchitectsMain Contractor: Horizon ConstructionSub Contractor: Specialised Fixings of Ipswich

Fire resistant, multi-directional, high movement, structural joint sealing of floor slabs from below for 120minutes, EI Fire ratings using Emshield-DFR from NCC Movement joints Limited.St William is a division of Berkely Homes, predominantly working on some of the most technically complex regeneration projects on brownfield sites, at the heart of communities across London, and typically with a landscape-led approach. Riverside Park and Gardens is being developed on the former Leven Road Gasworks in Poplar, East London, forming part of the 20 acres Aberfeldy Village scheme. This is an ambitious regeneration project in the borough of Tower Hamlets, with around 3000 new homes, plus shops, offices, cafes, bars, and a cinema, as well as extensive landscaped gardens, play areas, and riverside walks.On this important development by the River Thames, the structural floor slab joints ranged from only 15mm to 25mm wide, but they were subject to high multi-directional movement requirements, plus they required a minimum 120-minute EI Fire Rating to protect the future residents. To add to the complexity, there were shear connectors within the floor slabs that also needed protection to ensure their structural integrity in the event of a fire.An “E120” denotes that the system will not allow flames and hot gases from physically passing through the element for 120 minutes, which also explicitly denotes that the system will achieve 120 minutes ‘Integrity’ (E) and ‘Insulation (I), known as EI120, which therefore also achieves 120 minutes ‘Stability’ (R) in fire.Emshield-DFR-2 provided the ideal solution, and one which could also be rapidly installed from below in a single operation. This specialist work was completed by specialist fireproofing contractors, Gould Sealants Limited, working for Main Contractor, Morris Roe. Emshield-DFR/WFR is an EN-1366-4 tested, fire-rated movement joint, designed to be used in movement joints in exterior and interior walls where a combination of watertightness, fire-rating, sound attenuation, and thermal-efficiency are required. Key performance parameters include:-       Up to 100% joint movement (+/- 50% capability);-       100% watertight joints; -       No mechanical fixings to the structure;-       Accommodate changes in direction between the horizontal and vertical plane;-       Accommodates 3-Dimensional movements (including in shear & vertical, as well as joint expansion and contraction;)-       no additional sound concrete cut-outs required;-       Up to 4-hour fire integrity rating to EN1366-4; -       Up to 4-hour thermal Insulation rating to EN1366-4;-       High acoustic insulation & barrier performance; -       CE Approved and MarkedFor more information:Contact: David Mackay Tel: 01257 266696NCC Movement Joints Limited

Industrial building case study using Colorcoat Prisma in Seren White

Like a lot of homeowners, William Oakley had an under-utilised part of his house. In his case an old outbuilding that had been used for storing the accumulation of life’s odds and ends. Lockdown saw high growth in repurposing previously neglected parts of people’s homes to better suit their lifestyle and leisure choices. William decided a new soundproof cinema room would be a far better use of this space, giving his family a much-needed entertainment area.This is the space William Started withWilliam engaged Cinema Rooms Ltd, a specialist AV equipment supplier and One Off Studio Ltd who specialise in the build and installation of Home Cinemas and Studios.Due to the proximity of the proposed soundproof cinema room to neighbouring properties, it was decided to investigate what acoustic treatments were available. Without adequate acoustic insulation, William’s neighbours may have been subjected to significant noise pollution resulting in potential neighbourhood disputes.Following a quick online search, William found iKoustic, a leading UK supplier of acoustic solutions. Discussing the available options with William and his installation team, iKoustic’s experts were able to advise on the most appropriate system to meet his needs. This included MuteClip, MuteCradle and Tecsound SY70, the quick and easily installed acoustic system providing market-leading acoustic benefits.iKoustic acoustic expert Richard Woodhouse explained, ‘Finding the right solution was imperative for all parties. The system we proposed using MuteClip, MuteCradle and Tecsound SY70 was a cost-effective solution to a complex but often seen problem. The impact of unwanted noise is such an emotive issue in noisy neighbours’ scenarios often resulting in easily avoided disputes if the right materials are included in the project from the outset. iKoustic take pride in sharing our knowledge with installers and end users to ensure the job is right the first time, saving expensive and intrusive remedial work.’Maciek Helfer of One-Off Studio commented, ‘This is the first time I’ve worked with the MuteClip and MuteChannel acoustic system. It was so quick and easy to install. I also found it very useful I could FaceTime Richard at iKoustic with any installation queries when building the soundproof cinema room’. Simon Gregory of Cinema Rooms enthusiastically added, ‘We only work with the highest specification brands and products to bring customers the best Home Cinema experience. The iKoustic team’s expertise and products fall into this category and we’ll definitely be using them again.’William’s soundproof cinema room is now fully operational and thanks to iKoustic his family can enjoy the latest blockbusters in glorious surround sound late into the evening, while his neighbours enjoy a peaceful night safe in the knowledge the biggest Hollywood stars will only be joining William. William commented, ‘We finally got to test out the soundproofing for the first time today with some serious SPL! The system has worked beautifully, barely a whisper outside. Fantastic job iKoustic!’https://www.ikoustic.co.uk/systems/floating-floors-and-under-screed/mutecradle-1630mm-concreteMuteCradle 16/30 was used to create a raised floor with the added benefit that the cradle and packers also allow accommodation of unevenness within the subfloor.The raised floor not only improves acoustic performance but allows servicing to be run through the floor void. Ideal for a soundproof cinema room.Wallshttps://www.ikoustic.co.uk/systems/masonry-wall/muteclip-stud-doubleMuteClip® Stud Double consists of an independent stud frame treated around the perimeter with Isolation Strip F5, MuteClip and MuteChannel are installed to the face of the stud. A double layer of 15mm acoustic board with Tecsound SY70 sandwiched between the two boards is then installed to MuteClip Channels.The system not only adds significant mass to the partition, but the layers of mass are decoupled from the structure by MuteClip. MuteClip is, in effect, a shock absorber – creating a ‘buffer’ between layers of mass and the core construction.The depth of the wall system also allows for servicing to run through the wall cavity of the soundproof cinema room.Ceilinghttps://www.ikoustic.co.uk/systems/timber-ceiling/muteclip-lp-doubleAs the ceiling height was restricted initially and further reduced by specifying a floating floor, MuteClip® LP (Low Profile) was used to minimise further loss in height.MuteClip LP again is a mini-shock absorber that decouples layers of mass from the core construction.With MuteClip LP you recess the clip and most of the channel into the joist cavity with channels running parallel to joists, this leaves just a few mm of channel sitting proud of the bottom of the joists – an acoustic benefit of MuteClip but with little encroachment on head height. This works great in a soundproof cinema room.If you are looking to build a soundproof cinema room you can contact ikoustic and our friendly team will guide you with everything you need to know to get started. Contact us today.

The Clockwork Building was a complete refurb of a 1960/70’s office building, project managed by Thirdway and landscaping done by Belsize Gardens. We became involved in the early stages when Belsize Gardens and the client wanted 4 large Corten planters at the front of the building to give the entrance a more vibrant natural look.All 20 planters were made in total from 3 mm Corten steel with a folded base and a double folded top to give extra strength. In the large planters we also added 4 mm stainless steel bracing wire due to the very large amounts of soil being added to each planter. This stops possible panel movement when the soil is being tipped inside.There were four larger planters all at 60 cm high, two at 11.2 x 3.8 M and two others at 4.5 x 3.2 M. Lighting was designed into all four planters, a bench incorporated into one of the 4.5 M planters as well as a 6 bicycle stand on the most southern planter. The material had to be Corten steel and needed to be pre-rusted which was done in our EverEdge yard in Staffordshire. The supports were our standard buttress design, all at 500 mm centres. Because the back wall of the planters adjacent to the building followed the contours of the building (windows etc) there were no continuous straight lines, but a series of 90°corners. All these fitted neatly on site and resulted on minimum construction time.In addition to the main entrance planters, there were 12 more planters in the car park area, infilled between the building windows all 250 x 55 cm and 88 cm high. These planters, being smaller, were incorporated with our steel brace system.Lastly 4 large planters for the roof garden were also constructed, 150 x 110 cms and 880 cm high as well as one “trough” planter, 250 X 40 cm.

In 2019, Allan Corfield Architects approached us to create a contemporary kit for their client in Craobh Haven which they planned to exceed energy efficiency standards set out by building regulations.June 2023, we began erecting the kit on site. The build is split over 3 floors but is unique as it's built into a cliff with the main feature being an overhanging cantilevered middle storey. The clients could not have found a better plot with uninterrupted views over the Inner Hebrides.

Removing multi-storey multi-occupancy buildings is a complex and challenging task, but it is essential to ensure the safety of residents. The Hackitt Report, published in 2018, identified several failings in the current system of building regulations and fire safety and called for urgent action to be taken to make buildings safer.

Uxbridge's largest ever luxury commercial space is a monumental 324,630 sq ft. Radii AG was approached by dn-a architecture and Bowmer and Kirkland with the task of designing and installing a five-story central atrium with additional fire-solutions. Radii AG offered a streamlined design to ensure a stunning appearance with a time-conscious installation. Linear 27 was used with 40dB Rw toughened laminated glass for the atrium.This helped create the 100-meter long 'street' that ran along the heart of the building. FireStop E30 single-glazed partitioning screens, with FireTec doorsets and automated sliding doors were also installed.

Leading UK utility contractor, Telent, have used UltraCrete’s superb ironwork installation materials to repair and install a CW1 access cover in Sutton Coldfield.BackgroundAs part of their ongoing commitment to maintaining the UK’s national utility infrastructure, Telent have used UltraCrete’s latest product innovation Mortar Buoy® to repair a chamber and install a CW1 ironwork access cover in the West Midlands.The ChallengeLocated on a busy junction, it was crucial that the repair and installation of the CW1 cover was carried out quickly to minimise disruption to motorists. With a reputation drawing on decades of experience in the design, build, support and management of the UK’s critical infrastructure, it was imperative that Telent used reputable installation materials that had been tried, tested and proven to work in the road network.The SolutionUltraCrete’s independently tested and approved ironwork installation system was specified by BT Openreach to complete the project.The new CW1 cover was installed using the Install Plus method. To begin, Mortar Buoy® was inflated in the existing chamber to prevent debris falling into the cavity and causing potential damage to the network. Once inflated, the team were able to use Mortar Buoy® as internal shuttering and repair the damaged chamber using QC10 F rapid strength flowable concrete.QC10 F, part of UltraCrete’s range of high specification concretes, is rapid setting fibre modified concrete for backfilling around manhole frames and gullies and for surface repairs.To complete the installation, Mortar Buoy® was used as a dam and Envirobed® CD534 Flowable was poured around the edges of a chamber for a permanent installation.Specially formulated for utility reinstatements, Envirobed® CD534 Flowable high performance bedding mortar is BT LN550 and LN320 compliant and offers superior compressive, tensile and flexural strengths in just 3 hours.Mortar Buoy® is a ground-breaking, innovative, inflatable access frame that acts as a dam, allowing for a flowable mortar ironwork installation in seconds – revolutionising traditional methods.Enhance your specification and upgrade your reinstatement with UltraCrete Mortar Buoy®.ResultsThe project took place on a mild winter day in December 2021. The work was completed without delay and with minimal disruption. Using Mortar Buoy® instead of a traditional damming mortar increased the speed of the installation, reduced costs and made the install less labour intensive for the team.On the performance of Mortar Buoy®, John Doherty, Area Supervisor for Telent commented: “Mortar Buoy® makes life much easier versus traditional shuttering for both chamber repair and bedding the ironwork. It is also much faster.”

At a dizzying 160m (525ft) tall, London’s distinctive Walkie Talkie building required an exceptional roofing solution. Designed by architect Rafael Viñoly and costing over £200 million, 20 Fenchurch Street is a 34-storey commercial skyscraper in London, known as the ‘Walkie Talkie’ building due to its top-heavy form. It is designed to have a BREEAM excellence rating. Sarnafil G410-12EL single ply provided the perfect solution to this design criteria, thanks to its excellent flexibility and weldabilty, while offering outstanding resistance to weathering, including permanent UV irradiation.

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

The ChallengeTo fund necessary improvements to the existing school and the build of a new junior school, a school in Saffron Walden decided to commission a development of 76 new homes on part of its site.The site needed to include a range of housing from one-bedroom flats up to five-bedroom detached houses, as well as flats and small houses specifically designed for the over-55 market.The SolutionForterra’s Hampton Rural Blend Ecostock Brick was used throughout the development, reflecting the neighbouring environment while enhancing the intrinsic qualities of the site.The BenefitsThe palette of materials within this development is traditional but the detailing is modern and confident. The development won a RIBA National Award in 2016.

Erskine House was selected as Northern Ireland’s only CivicTrustAward regional finalist in 2021 and is located on Chichester Street, one of Belfast’s oldest and busiest thoroughfares. The building delivers 10,000 sqm of office space with retail on the ground floor. The scheme is completed with a two storey glazed penthouse using a combination of accentuated feature caps and structural flush glazed sections offering views across the city.The Aluprof systems were fabricated and installed by Walsin Limited and consisted of Aluprof's MB-SR50N capped system and MB-SR50N EFEKT capless structural glazing systems with Aluprofs MB-86 doors. The finish externally on the systems is Powder Coating.