"kitchens"

Park Regis Birmingham, part of the Stay Well hospitality Group, is a brand new upscale four-star luxury hotel with 253 well-appointed guest rooms in the heart of Birmingham's city centre on Broad Street. The hotel offers a modern and contemporary ambience with a boutique feel. Tibbatts Abel Interior Design specified Armourcoat polished plaster finishes for the front desk recessed logo wall and throughout the lobby and public areas of the hotel.Armourcoat finishes also feature within the Rofuto restaurant and bar located on the 16th floor of the hotel tower. This modern Japanese Izakaya-style concept features an incredible 200m2 Armourcoat polished plaster ceiling and finished columns throughout the venue. Rofuto is divided into two main areas; the dining lounge with a 360⁰ panoramic view of Birmingham, and the seven-metre long central dining bar featuring open kitchens and theatre Yakitori grill counter. An array of global projects for an impressive list of international blue chip clients in the residential, hospitality and boutique retail sectors have established Armourcoat as a leading supplier of high quality surface finishes. Armourcoat products are made from natural minerals including recycled Italian marble, contain low or zero VOCs, and have the added confidence of a full 10 year guarantee. Photography: ©Richard Kiely and Rofuto restaurant and bar

Brennan & Wilson Architects undertook the transformation of The Barn in East Lothian into an EnerPHit Passive House, emphasising sustainability.The project involved the conversion of a stone outbuilding, with the addition of a large kitchen extension with a planted sedum roof. The owner wanted an energy-efficient home, with no reliance on fossil fuels, which was adaptable to their changing needs should they eventually require single-level living. Rooflights were key to achieving good natural light levels inside the house, due to existing boundary restrictions with neighbouring properties. The selected FAKRO products included quadruple-glazed rooflights tailored for both pitched and flat roofs, aligning with the project's objectives. Installation was efficient with well-packaged products and clear structural guidance provided by FAKRO.The outcome is a remarkable improvement in insulation within The Barn, ensuring year-round comfort while notably reducing energy consumption. Stewart MacKenzie, FAKRO's Regional Manager for Scotland, played a crucial role in providing tailored support, ensuring the selected products met the project's unique requirements.This collaboration showcases the effective integration of architectural design with sustainable, high-quality products, creating a home that emphasises environmental consciousness and occupant comfort. Brennan & Wilson Architects are based in East Lothian, Scotland and have over 20 years experience of designing sustainable, low-energy buildings.

The challengeA new 53,280ft campus was being built to enable three schools to co-locate. An Additional Support Needs (ASN) unit and a new Early Learning and Childcare Centre (ELCC) would also operate at the site.In total there would be 21 open-plan flexible learning spaces for the potential 747 students, as well as a centrally-located shared administrative areas, gym halls and assembly area, while the ASN has capacity to assist 36 pupils with a varying range of support needs.To ensure the success of this modern and multi-faceted open-plan approach to learning, the specification of ceiling systems with high performing acoustic control and total design flexibility was imperative.The solutionFor maximum acoustic comfort Zentia’s Oplia hA Tegular within a standard 24mm grid was used in offices, classrooms and stores.These tiles perform to Sound Absorption Class A and were also the first mineral ceiling tile in Europe to win Cradle to Cradle™ certification as part of the new generation of sustainable and acoustic ceilings offered by Zentia.In keeping with the modern and sleek design of the campus, Zentia’s integrated ceiling systems featuring Perla OP Tegular 15 planks were also used throughout. Whilst, in the kitchen and changing room spaces, Zentia's Hygiene board mineral tiles on a 24 mm corrosion-resistant grid was specified.

Six of our large raised planters can be found in the walled garden of the historic Hopton Hall on the outskirts of the Peak District. The hall has a rich 600-year heritage and has hosted the likes of Oliver Cromwell and Mary Queen of Scots. Today the hall is a privately owned home with holiday cottage accommodation. Its beautiful gardens are open to the public, who travel from all over the world to see its famous snowdrop displays in spring and its fragrant rose garden in summer.The kitchen garden sits within the walled rose garden and is used to grow vegetables, herbs and varieties of pollinator-friendly flowers.There are two rows of three raised planters. This area of the garden is sloped, therefore the planters needed to be built into it to maximise the space large beds have been built into the slope.Hopton’s head gardener opted for high planters for ease of access and each design is 0.85m high.WoodBlocX modular planters are a popular choice for parks and gardens. The combination of versatile design and superior finish means the structures work well in historical and heritage settings and equally well within modern schemes by simply switching from traditional to contemporary capping, which sits flush with the structure.Raised planters can also be designed with integrated seating and in bespoke shapes and sizes, and we offer all clients a Free Design Service which will visualise your design in a series of CAD views.Bei

Waterproofing design is a key and critical component for successful construction of below ground structures. Whether it’s a completely new build or making smaller changes to an existing property, waterproofing design should never be overlooked.Waterproofing might account for just a small fraction of a building’s total cost, but waterproofing defects can result in catastrophic consequences. When waterproofing fails, the implications are significant.Delta’s MD, Kevin Dodds was approached to offer advice and guidance on a failed waterproofing system.The existing structure had an impressive 5-level basement which houses: kitchens, food storage and food preparation areas, spa, plant rooms and accommodation. Near to a large river, the site sited well within the water table. The original waterproofing system was based on the secant piled walls and a block wall internally to provide a basic drained protection system with drainage holes at various points to drain to various levels.Over time, the third floor had become completely saturated with all levels of the basement experiencing water ingress in varying levels from damp patches to significant “jets” of water and flows of water through the secant piles.With remediation waterproofing design strategies, it may take some time to specify a suitable system. It is important that investigations are thoroughly carried out by individuals with the capability of diagnosing the defect, assessing the extent of that defect, and recommending a suitable corrective measure.

The five-star Cameron House Hotel is set within 400 acres of beautiful Scottish countryside on the world-famous banks of Loch Lomond. The Hotel is the prestigious home to a collection of 140 bedrooms including 24 suites. The hotel offers a variety of dining experiences, including the Michelin starred restaurant Martin Wishart at Loch Lomond.When the flat roof areas above the main kitchen and the dining area began to leak, it was imperative that a rapid waterproofing solution could be found that could be installed without disturbing operations at the restaurants below.When the flat roof areas above the main kitchen and the dining area began to leak, it was imperative that a rapid waterproofing solution could be found that could be installed without disturbing operations at the restaurants below. The roof area itself was covered with an aged felt membrane that had been treated with a variety of localised repairs which could no longer prevent water ingress. A large amount of M & E plant was present throughout the roof, and any new waterproofing system would be required to seal the numerous stanchions and plinths in a fully weatherproof condition. After researching waterproofing systems online, Cameron House Hotel contacted Polyroof Technical Services for a recommended waterproofing solution that met their stringent criteria. Following discussions, the regional technical manager carried out a detailed roof survey of the roofs. The survey report formed the basis of a bespoke specification that covered a comprehensive set of recommendations to fully solve the roof’s problems.Polyroof Approved Contractor Skyform Roofing successfully tendered the project and the refurbishment works soon began. In order to avoid disruption to the hotel’s operations the existing roof coverings were retained as a substrate for the Protec system, without the need for stripping / replacement works. Due to the complex nature of the roof, works were carried out within a phased approach with the most problematic regions being refurbished first. Loose-laid M & E plant was relocated and the felt coverings cleaned and made good as required. The remaining roof details were then prepared as necessary before being primed ready to accept Polyroof’s cold liquid-applied Protec system.A key advantage of the Protec system for phased refurbishments is its speed of application and rapid curing. Unlike moisture-curing liquid systems, Protec forms a solid, extra-tough membrane that can be walked on 30 – 60 minutes after application. Not only does this reduce labour times and keep costs down, but crucially it allows the full system to be laid in it’s entirety in a matter of hours – rather than days. With its fibreglass reinforcement, the Protec resin is able to rapidly mould around any protrusion, stanchion, plinth or upstand to quickly form a totally seamless watertight seal – without the need for any time consuming cutting or patching work. This meant that the many complex roof details were able to be rapidly made waterproof, further reducing installation times.The contract monitoring undertaken by Polyroof Technical Services allowed the contractor and manufacturer to work effectively together to ensure the roofing solution delivered on all the client’s needs. The application by Skyform Roofing was completed to a very high standard with every roof detail meticulously sealed in a fully weatherproof condition.

Collaborating with PCP Contractors, Team BOYCO transformed the food technology room at Bishop David Brown School to create a space perfect for students to learn food and nutrition.Project ScopeLocated in Woking, Northwest Surry, Bishop David Brown School’s ethos is focused on ‘Enabling all to Excel’. To foster this environment, recent refurbishments have taken place. As part of this we worked to renew their food technology room; crafting kitchen workstations that seamlessly blend with the current school aesthetic whilst being fully functional for usage. The BOYCO WayBackgroundCatering to students who are learning to cook and working towards food and nutrition qualifications, BOYCO supplied and installed fully fitted kitchen areas, complete with appliances, cupboards, sinks, and workstations. MovementWorking closely with the customer to ensure their needs were met, our in-house design team designed the worktops of the workstations to be rounded at the ends.Eliminating any sharp corners, the rounded edges reduce obstructions allowing students to navigate more effectively, an essential requirement in a high-traffic classroom environment. Due to this classroom hosting an interactive, practical approach to learning, hot items are commonly carried within lessons. The rounded edges reduce the risk of students bumping into the surface. Accidental contact can occur, and therefore removing pointed edges of a square or rectangular shaped work surface contributes to a safe space.The softer edge of the worktop s is also a more comfortable option than the usual square. Students and teachers can both lean and touch the worktops whilst participating in practical food technology sessions, which enhances collaborations and creates a welcoming and engaging environment for all. ColourFinal selections of colours for the classroom took place to ensure that Team BOYCO both matched the preferences of Bishop David Brown School and that the chosen tones and pigments complement the overall design. It was decided to use a neutral colour palette for the food technology classroom.A fantastic choice, neutral colours give a contemporary aesthetic to the workspaces, whilst creating a calm atmosphere for students. Neutral colours are also a popular option due to their versatility; they complement the majority of accent colours enabling the food technology walls to be updated with different paint when desired.Want to learn more about Colour Theory in education spaces? Read BOYCO’s insights here. Seating OptionsDiffering what is commonly seen in a classroom, stools were selected as a seating option. A practical solution, they provide flexible seating due to matching the height of the worktops, along with ease of movement and storage where needed in learning. If they need to be moved from pathways when students are cooking this can easily be actioned; they can easily be stowed away, allowing students and teachers to use as much of the classroom space as possible. Bespoke ProductsTried and trusted for over 60 years, we are dedicated to providing long-lasting solutions for our customers, and this was no different for Bishop David Brown School. Specific focus was on creating a lasting and efficient learning space, whilst still offering an eye-catching appearance. DurabilitySolid Grade Laminate worktops were chosen for the kitchen area. Durable and highly resistant to wear and tear, they were a perfect match to the customers’ requirements. Even under heavy daily use by teachers and students, the worktops will remain in great condition. This longevity allows focus on learning rather than teachers and students having to think about preventing damage the workspace. SGL is also a non-porous material, which in the food technology classroom contributes to the school’s excellent hygiene standards as spills can easily be cleaned and worktops maintained.For schools, Solid Grade Laminate is also a great choice due to its cost-effectiveness. A robust option with low maintenance upkeep, they are a great long-term option for learning spaces that require specialist surfaces. Even with exposure to the use of knives and other kitchen tools; scratches, cuts, and heat damage do not appear as easily, creating a fantastic lasting appearance in the food technology rooms. AppliancesAlong with BOYCO’s built to last fixed furniture products, the following appliances were installed:For storage of perishable food, refrigerators were included, providing students with quick access to ingredients when participating in practical learning. Ovens and hobs for each workstation were also installed. An essential for effective cooking, they allow Bishop David’s students to explore various recipes and techniques to encourage food health knowledge and safety. Ensuring that as much space as possible was used, the appliances are integrated, rather than stand-alone. To contribute to the cleanliness of the food technology room, dishwashers were selected due to their ability to quickly wash cooking equipment and utensils, getting the classroom ready for the next lesson. Storage in the ClassroomPerfect for aprons, chef whites, and storing students coats and bags, our market leading 'Hot Dip' nylon-coated peg rails were also installed. ‘Unbreakable’, the specialist coating creates unparalleled abrasion resistance – 500x that of powdered coating alternatives. Even with daily student usage, our pegs stay functional, due to the resistance against chips, scratches, and wear over time. Promoting independence and tidiness, food technology students can organise their belongings, which if left in the workstation aisles pose a tripping hazard along with a health and safety risk.Along with abrasion resistance, our ‘Hot Dip’ nylon also offers anti-microbial resistance, offering protection against 99% of all known bacteria. This is beneficial for the classroom, as due to it being a food preparation yet high touch point space, it is another step of contribution to the health and safety standards required in the school. Project SuccessOn completion of the project, both BOYCO and PCP contractors came together to view the final finished food technology room. A great result, the food technology classroom is now fully fitted with bespoke high-quality furniture and appliances, enhancing the learning experience of Bishop David’s students by optimising the functionality of the space. Perfect for practical learning, students are now able to explore different aspects of home economics and food nutrition, inspiring the next generation of careers such as chefs. teachers now also have a fantastic space to teach pupils, knowing that the selected ‘Built to Last’ furniture solutions will stand the test of time even in the busy environment of the food technology classroom, something of which Team BOYCO are proud to have contributed to.When we chatted to the customer post project, they expressed how pleased they were with the final result, with PCP contractors saying…"Overall the project has been a complete success and the Client is over the moon with the workmanship and product. Your fitters are tip top, see you on the next one". Ready to transform an education space? Our friendly team at BOYCO is here to assist you every step of the way. Contact us today to discuss your project requirements. 

Caudwell International Children’s Centre (CICC) is the UK’s first independent Centre dedicated to autism diagnosis, therapy and research. National Charity, Caudwell Children, funded the 60,000 sq ft iconic £18 million facility which has been built in Staffordshire near Keele University. The aim of the Centre is to unite the world’s leading experts on autism diagnosis and therapy.The Centre features two internal courtyards and an innovative ‘Butterfly’ design which reflects the charity’s logo. It has been meticulously designed to meet the needs of disabled children and surpasses current UK accessibility standards.  The Centre incorporates state-of-the art assessment suites, family training suites, and training kitchens. There is even a 120-seat conference facility so that experts can share ideas from around the world.The 360-degree loop corridors aim to discourage children from running and, without harsh, right-angled corners, there is less risk of surprise encounters which might cause anxiety. ‘Quiet Pods’ and sensory rooms have also been provided to create a calming space.A combination of Lusso 25 single glazed partitions and Lusso 105 double glazed partitions were installed to meet the varying needs within the building. This helps to ensure visibility for safety, and acoustic requirements to reduce noise levels so as not to over-stimulate children. Lusso 25FR and Lusso 105FR were also used whre fire regulations were required. Overall, the use of glazed partitions within the design ensures the building is modern, contemporary, and bright for all visitors to the Centre.    

Bradstowe House is a fascinating opportunity to not only rescue a historic building but also do it in such a way that will make the property sustainable. When Comer Homes decided they wanted their piece back after experiencing one too many economic downturns under this roof (pun intended), what came up wasn’t anything short of astounding: The long-abandoned concrete frame had become nothing more than dust and decay; its glory days are forgotten — until now!Bradstowe House, designed by Comer Homes’ UK in-house architects is a contemporary landmark for Harrow. The building’s curving glass and steel form give way to ample underground parking as well the rooftop terraces which make this development an iconic example of modern architecture that can be found anywhere from London city all too small towns across England!Bradstowe House offers a diverse range of rental apartments that are designed to suit your needs. With modern kitchens and fully integrated appliances, our high-quality homes offer the perfect space for gatherings with family or friends alike!The old cladding of the building was very outdated and it required a lot of maintenance. The new planning permission allows for an aluminium panel (Valcan VitraDual) curtain walling system, which is much more durable than granite panels while also having better insulation qualities!Valcan supplied and delivered approx. 4100m2 of Valcan VitraDual in Cornish Granite & Riddle Grey.

ObjectiveDurkan was established in 1970, the company has grown from a small, family contractor to become a leading construction and development company in London and the Home Counties.Durkan were contracted to construct 55 new build apartments on Amelia Street, London. They required a bathroom product that was easy to install and simple to clean but without comproming on decor choice, Nuance ticked all the boxes.Bushboard have been developing kitchen and bathroom surfaces in the UK since 1935, with the idea that everyone deserves a great design whatever their budget.ObservationThe Nuance product was recommended to Durkan Ltd and once they had researched it themselves they were pleased with the variety available.‘Nuance provided a solution in a variety of colours and finishes which were attractive to our clients.’Nuance is all about great design with a flexible and integrated approach for all bathroom layouts.Whether your design calls for wall hung, semi-recessed or the latest sit-on basins, the range offers co-ordinated or matching surfaces in laminate or luxurious solid surface.OutcomeDurkan specified ‘Ice’ surfaces creating a stylish, sleek finish to their bathrooms.A laminate worksurface gives a smart and integrate design look with little maintenance required.‘No challenges occured during the installation process, it was straightforward.’The Nuance worksurfaces give a real flexibility to shape the perfect bathroom along with peace mind of with a three year joint guarantee when installed with Bushboard’s BB Complete adhesive and sealant.For more information about the Bushboard products, request a RIBA CPD, download an NBS specification or order samples visit www.bushboard.co.uk

IssueA dilapidated former care home was being redeveloped into high specification, modern flats and communal spaces. The new flats were to provide bespoke, accessible accommodation for people with autism, learning disabilities and physical disabilities, with an on-site café open to the community. The aim was to create bright, modern, living, and communal spaces, without an institutional feel.ApproachThe flats offer different levels of support for residents. Support provided within people’s own homes is tailored to each person’s needs and supports individuals who are stepping down from secure units and hospitals including those who may have experienced previous placement breakdowns.Interior Designer, Penny Green, having worked with Altro products for many years, liaised with Altro to select a range of floor options to deliver flexible solutions in the different application areas, suitable for resident’s needs.SolutionAltro Ensemble luxury vinyl tiles was specified for The Foundry Café, bringing the benefit of 15dB sound reduction, and added comfort underfoot.In areas with a higher risk of slip, Altro Wood was selected to match the colour scheme, providing a biophilic safe option together with homely aesthetics. Altro Pisces specialist safety flooring, designed for shoe and bare foot use, was specified for all bathrooms and wet rooms.For The Foundry Cafe kitchen, Altro Stronghold 30 was selected to bring safety and comfort underfoot for staff, and Altro Reliance was specified for the back of house and delivery areas bringing a hard-wearing and durable finish.

Expanding care options with fit-for-purpose solutionsAltro Wood, Altro Serenade, Altro Aquarius, Altro Stronghold 30IssueFounded in 1995, The Glen is part of the Willow Valley Communities network that offers ageing residents a mind, body and spirit approach to wellness. The Glen provides a range of support services including shortterm rehabilitation from surgery or illness, as well as specialised memory care for individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other cognitive disorders. The facility needed updating to allow residents to continue to enjoy the comforts of home while promoting their physical and mental wellbeing.ApproachTo continue its mission of designing programmes and places fit to people, Willow Valley enlisted CCS Building Group to manage The Glen expansion project, which began in 2018. CCS collaborated with their Altro representative, knowing Willow Valley’s history of using Altro products during previous renovations with proven success.SolutionThroughout its completion, The Glen project utilised multiple Altro floors. For resident rooms accommodating those receiving skilled care, CCS chose Altro Wood for its warm, domestic aesthetic. In the facility’s communal areas, Altro Serenade provides 19dB sound reduction to reduce excess noise. Altro Stronghold 30 was used in the facility’s kitchens for its superb slip resistance and comfort underfoot for busy staff. For residents’ bathrooms and shower areas, CCS selected Altro Aquarius specialist safety flooring for its high slip resistance value both in shoes or barefoot.

A former pub located in the heart of Taporley village, Cheshire, has been converted into a luxury health and welbeing centre, featuring a state-of-the-art-gym, treatment rooms and apartments for staff use. Instinct Gym and Wellbeing aims to help improve the health and mental wellbeing of the local community through new initiatives. When it came to selection the best floor coverings, having worked with JA Flooring on previous projects  Enigma Holdings Group, the owners of the building, called upon the flooring contractor once more. As aesthetics and durability were key objectives of the project, JA Flooring advised the use of an array of solutions from Forbo Flooring Systems’ portfolio including its Allura luxury vinyl tiles (LVT), which played a significant role in the renovation works.The natural wood and stone aesthetic, combined with the benefits of strong, comfortable vinyl tiles, meant that Allura was installed in the gym, treatment rooms, spin studios and circulation areas. In the treatment rooms where a more serene surrounding was required, Allura Wood in the Whitewash Elegant Oak colourway was used.In the entrance and reception area, a bespoke Coral Logo entrance flooring mat was produced to reinforce the Instinct Gym and Wellbeing branding – helping to create that all important first impression, whilst offering protection in extreme traffic conditions and maximum functional performance.Finally, Tessera Earthscape carpet tiles in Iceberg were installed in the apartments; and in the changing facilities and kitchens, the Surestep range in various neutral colourways helped to complement the overall sophisticated interior of the health and wellbeing centre.

After the historic St Mary’s Hospital in Bristol received planning approval for Commercial refurbishment, we were contacted by M R Allen Limited to help transform the old healthcare facility to student accommodation. The building had been vacant for a number of years before the project to transform the space into 153 premium student rooms got the go ahead.The original hospital building was retained, with the addition of a 4 storey extension, a 3 storey new build, 8 no. townhouses and a new Communal space for students which includes an on-site gym, entertainment room, lounge and kitchen for private dining.Planning dictated that this undesignated heritage asset retained many of its original features, sat within a setting of various listed buildings and in a Conservation area.This led to us recommending timber Box Sash Windows from our Conservation range.All 109 box sash windows were manufactured in our British factory featuring high acoustic performing trickle vents & laminated glass in 24mm double glazed units, ensuring noise travel is kept to a minimum between accommodation.Mark Allen from M R Allen Limited explains;“We chose Mumford & Wood for their long-standing reputation for manufacturing British made, traditional timber windows – exactly what this project required. We also had some stringent acoustic performance requirements and working closely with Mumford & Wood allowed us to create a product that exceeded our performance expectations.”We finished the windows in ‘Signal White,’ featuring polished brass ironmongery.

The Trumpington Residents’ Association and Cambridge City Council wanted to update a 60-year-old pavilion at the heart of the village in a £600,000 community project.Cambridge architects 5th Studio designed a striking colourful exterior cladding. They turned to an artist specialising in the treatment and perimeter fencing manufacturer Zaun to create the multi-coloured stripe effect with a specialist bright green protective steel mesh ‘cage’.The SolutionTrumpington Pavilion employs an unusual multi-coloured exterior treatment. An artist specialing in the technique has dribbled green, blue, red and yellow randomly onto a corrugated plastic sandwich sheet, which is then covered with Zaun’s Duo8 mesh in bright green, fixed to coloured timber battens.The pavilion includes a main building with a hall, youth room, kitchen, toilets, office and inter-connected changing rooms for two teams plus an officials’ room.The doors to the changing rooms are in boldly contrasting colours. At the same time, an eight-metre green mesh electric sliding gate protects the building but opens to provide unrestricted access to the patio and the King George V Playing Fields beyond.Zaun installed the Diamond cantilever sliding gate with Duo8 mesh in-fill, KeyFob and internally mounted switchto ensure both the safety of all users of the pavilion when the gates are operated especially children, and the security of the contents when the pavilion is not in use.The original pavilion, built in the early 1950s, was about half the size of the new main building, including a small hall and changing rooms.

Continuity between indoor spaces and outdoor floors, a balanced interaction that increases aesthetic potential: Atlas Concorde sets the tone in an elegant Belgian residence.Refined, unique, chic: the metropolitan style of Atlas Concorde concrete-effect porcelain tiles decorates the interior and exterior floors of a large, charming private residence in the town of Maasmechelen, Belgium, giving them a strong, unmistakable personality. Furnished in an urban chic style, the residence uses concrete-effect tiles to boost its modern, extremely refined look, which plays on volumes and alternating light and dark tones. Laid both on the floor in the open space living room/kitchen area and outside, the concrete-effect tiles create a visual and functional continuity between the indoor and outdoor spaces. Thanks to a subtle texture on shades of grey, where the warm hues of oxidation and the cooler tones typical of the original material coexist, the concrete-effect porcelain tiles become a decisive element in the interior and exterior designs of the residence. Able to embellish rooms thanks to their versatility, which makes them easy to mix and match with other furnishings, the tile surfaces also project their own style in safety and continuity, extending the design possibilities. Premium large-format 120x120 cm tiles boost the aesthetic and functional potential of spaces, amplifying volumes and giving them the characteristics of safety and reliability, especially critical when designing outdoor solutions. With a variety of effects and nuances, the large format is also able to satisfy the broadest array of stylistic inclinations: its task is to reinterpret all the expressiveness of the original material and transform it into a real living experience.

Tiny Houses are on trend. Downsizing, sustainability and the desire for affordable housing are the three most important reasons why miniature houses are rapidly gaining in popularity in Germany. More than one tenth of single people considering home ownership are currently interested in this kind of Tiny House - according to the "Livee Tiny House market study 2021". And you don't have to go without your home comforts. The Tiny House with solutions from SIEGENIA proves this.Save precious spaceWith this well-thought-out use of just 16.5 square metres of floor space, the solutions from SIEGENIA have made a significant contribution to the favourable response to the Tiny House. For example, the sliding hardware, ECO SLIDE, saves valuable space behind the sofa because the window sashes do not swing open and closed but slide to the side instead. Every centimetre of living space can therefore be used. Room comfort solutions from SIEGENIA are also installed in the remaining windows. Here the tried and tested TITAN fittings provide smooth operation and ease of use. As TITAN vent secure, it combines this in the bathroom with efficient burger resistance in accordance with resistance class RC2, even in the tilted position. Whereas in the loft, it demonstrates its versatility as hardware for an especially narrow, elongated element.And finally in the kitchen area, the AEROPAC wall-mounted vent unit guarantees demand-based ventilation even when you are out and about. The ventilator with its elegant design not only operates incredibly quietly, it is also equipped with sound absorption, which provides a quiet home in noisy environments.

The Chocolate Works is an award winning £50.0m housing project on a strategic site bounded by York Racecourse Conversation Area and the listed Terry’s of York chocolate manufacturers building, both intrinsic to the city’s rich history. The development by David Wilson Homes, provides 320 homes including apartments and family houses. IG’s standard lintels, corner lintels and windposts provide the necessary structural support for bright and stylish open-plan spaces across multiple floors.Challenge:Since the closure of the factory, the unused industrial site had been bought and sold on several occasions. A viable scheme could not be agreed and developed to respond to the local surroundings, complementing and referencing the adjacent Grade II listed chocolate factory.Solution:David Wilson Homes used community involvement at the initial design workshop which gave local people and key stakeholders a voice in the scheme’s design. The layouts of the homes achieved are simple and clear and focus on the demands of the residents for modern and contemporary style living with high ceilings and large windows providing ample natural light.IG’s technical team designed wide inner leaf corner lintels accommodating a range of sizes for ‘The Leetham’ house type for both kitchen and study areas. IG’s corner lintels allowed for flexible open-plan spaces to be suffused with natural light through a clean and minimalistic design approach. All the lintels were supplied with customised steel support posts for each mitred corner and tailored to include factory fitted spigots located in the cavity to ensure that no steelwork was visible, with the post being encased at the corner to achieve the architectural design feature.

Charlotte and her family have always enjoyed living in their Edwardian terraced home in Wimbledon, although after spending lockdown with their two young daughters, they realised they needed more indoor space. The couple decided to complete a rear extension to create more space. Built using H+H Celcon Blocks the extension has made the house noticeably warmer and improved the sound insulation.The finished extension houses the kitchen and dining area, as well as a large corner sofa. Charlotte notes, “I’m actually pursuing a career in interior design, so I worked closely with Westminster Building Company to ensure the space is both warm and inviting. My partner and I love cooking and dining in there now, and our kids certainly enjoy the extra space.”“H+H is a big name, so I didn’t give it a second thought when using their Celcon Blocks. I knew I was buying good quality building materials that are light to handle and easy to use.” “Technically speaking this was a job that required some forethought, as the homeowner wanted the extension to be future proofed for building up a storey. Also, one of the next door neighbours was planning for a rear extension to their home. “This meant that we built a 300mm wall with two layers of 100mm Celcon Standard Blocks (3.6N/MM2) with a 100mm cavity wall insulation and used Celcon Block High Strength Grade (7.3N/mm2) on the inner skin. This was both to facilitate future upward building and to ensure that the neighbours plans weren’t mitigated.” Will Clark, Director, Westminster Building Company.The floor to the extension was created using an Insulated Beam & Block construction, using Celcon Block Standard Grade 100mm blocks. 

The ChallengeBuilt in the 1960s, Warwick School’s Guy Nelson Hall was no longer fulfilling the needs of a modern, growing school. As well as not being too small to accommodate increasing student numbers during exams and large events, technical and IT infrastructure upgrades were needed to continue its use as a theatre space for the community.Located at the heart of the school’s site, the hall plays an important role in creating a good first impression for visitors to the school. Any redevelopment of the hall would also need to complement the existing buildings.The SolutionForterra’s County Multi Smooth, part of the Butterley range, a heritage brand that has been synonymous with brick making in the UK for over 150 years and is manufactured at Forterra’s Wilnecote brickworks. It was the ideal construction material for the project, enabling freedom of design with regard to form, scale and mass, while making a visual link with surrounding masonry.The brick gives a modern, uniform finish, which complements the smooth finish of the glass and concrete panels that also form part of the hall’s design.The BenefitsFollowing extensive redevelopment, that included the addition of an entrance foyer, kitchen, performance studios and a balcony area, Guy Nelson Hall has been transformed from school hall to a state-of-the-art 1,000 multi-use venue and concert hall.The clever design and materials used in the hall’s redevelopment have resulted in a building that incorporates modern design elements, such as its sweeping, curved façade, while blending perfectly with the existing vernacular. There has also been a significant improvement to the buildings acoustics.The project was completed in July 2016 ready for the new school intake in September that year.

An extension to a 16th century cottage, Holton Lodge in Halesworth, has utilised Catnic Urban to beautiful effect. This stunning property extension blends the old with the new to create a huge modern kitchen extensionA cost effective alternative to zinc, Catnic Urban steel standing seam roof and cladding met the desired aesthetics – with the quick fit system offering a fast and problem-free installation.Hilary and Robert Garner wanted to open up their existing kitchen with a build that used full height glazing to flood the area with light and give them an unobstructed view of their garden. In response, architect Tim Hannon, from Brooks Architects in Leiston, designed a contemporary extension that provides a stunning focal point, reconnecting the inside to out.“After we were convinced that Catnic Urban could achieve our desired aesthetic, our next concern was that the roofing and cladding could be exactly matched to the window frames and that the colour would stand the test of time. Again, we were assured of the system’s colour matching and stability credentials by everyone working on the project and we’re overjoyed with the result. Catnic Urban has really given the project the wow factor.”Hilary and Robert GarnerHolton Lodge ownersThe vaulted roof was designed to bring drama to the space, with a ridge that was purposely higher than the roof of the main house, so visitors are instantly given a glimpse of the striking design as soon as they approach the house. An overhang provides a covered outside eating area and works to reduce solar gain, with the sleek lines of the standing seam continued down the side of the extension, which is wrapped in matching cladding. Typical of the area, the design also includes a lean-to roof on an area that houses the utility room and cloakroom.“I’ve worked with Catnic Urban on a number of projects and particularly like the fact that it is fully recyclable at end of life. The ease of installation also instils confidence that there will be no problems at fitting stage and the technical support offered by the Urban team is also excellent, with a good level of technical detail provided on abutments and ventilation, so that all the work is neatly finished.”Tim HannonBrooks ArchitectsCatnic Urban steel standing seam roofing and cladding in Anthracite Colorcoat HPS200 Ultra was used across the project, recommended by project contractor Kerslake Construction Ltd, as a cost effective alternative to the zinc roof initially specified, when cost became a concern. “If a customer wants the look of zinc without the price tag, I recommend Catnic Urban”, said Jon, “and in most cases as soon as people look into the product they switch, as it looks great, achieving really smooth, clean lines that flow beautifully.”Catnic Urban’s recommended contractor Steel Roof Installers UK was commissioned by Kerslake Construction to install the roof, as they have worked together on similar projects in the past. After attending a training course back in 2010, owners Chris Bates and Andy Morris were soon turned onto the benefits of building with Catnic Urban and now exclusively work on Urban projects.Catnic Urban (previously known as Colorcoat Urban) is a fully supported standing seam system designed, manufactured and CE marked in accordance with BS EN 14783:2013. Quick build times are possible with neat crisp finishes to complement design and build choices. Manufactured from Tata Steel’s Colorcoat HPS200 Ultra®, and also available in Colorcoat Prisma®, Catnic Urban is a cost-effective alternative to traditional copper and zinc standing seam roof systems. Seven times lighter than tile equivalents, it is easy to handle on site and quick to fix compared with traditional roofing products.

The ChallengeThe fire risk within airports is amplified by the need to ensure the safe mass evacuation of people who could be exposed to the primary danger of smoke and toxic fumes that are difficult to vent in a controlled way within airport terminals. With these factors in mind, Johnson Controls has developed a well proven Integrated Risk Management Approach to protect vulnerable areas within airport terminals, aircraft hangars and airport building infrastructures from the threat of fire. With the addition of integrated security and safety systems, our approach has been developed from a wealth of experience gained by protecting over 350 civil, and military airport and aviation facilities over a 50 year period.Having worked in partnership with the Airport Authorities and their specialised construction groups on every major turnkey airport project throughout the world, there is no imaginable fire, safety and security risk within this market sector we have not encountered and neutralised.It is therefore hardly surprising that Johnson Controls is a preferred supplier with a proven track record for providing an Integrated Risk Management Approach that can integrate over 20 different types of system within nine disciplines to meet the varied and individual needs of the airport and aviation industry.Product and SolutionsDoorsFire detection & alarmFire extinguishersFoam extinguishing systemsGaseous fire suppression systemsKitchen fire suppression systemsMicroDrop® high pressure water mist systemsSprinkler systemsService & maintenance Fire protection projects within AirportsSprinkler life safety systemsWe have installed these systems in public areas, retail shops and executive lounges within major international airports. These systems have ensured that the Life Safety and “Adequate Means of Escape” regulations have been met in full.Fire detection & alarmWe have installed these systems in all airport areas with integrated Public Address and Voice Evacuation systems that can ensure the safe mass evacuation of airport passengers and staff in the event of a fire or safety alert.MicroDrop® high pressure water mist We have protected airport data centres and emergency power generators. In a fire situation, these systems use minimal amounts of water which results in less clean up time and faster re-instatement of the airport’s operations.R102 Kitchen Fire Suppression systems These systems protect airport restaurants, cafeterias and fast food retail outlets. They are the fastest and most effective means of fighting hot oil and grease related fires. There is “No Post Fire” contamination or environmental issues with these systems.INERGEN® gaseous fire suppression systemsWe have used these systems to protect Air Traffic Control centres, Active Traffic Management Control Centres (ATMCCs) and “business critical” electronic infrastructures. INERGEN is totally safe for humans operating within Non Immediate Evacuation Areas (NIAs). It also does not produce any toxic by-products as a result of a fire. These factors also ensure that highly valuable and sophisticated electronic equipment is not harmed by INERGEN®.Foam systems We have used low, medium and high expansion fixed fire fighting foam systems to protect the buildings, and the aircraft within them, from the threat of fire. Our foam systems are employed in every major civil and military aircraft hangar in the world.Johnson Controls UK airport projects Bentwaters – MilitaryBirmingham International AirportEdinburgh AirportGlasgow AirportJohn Lennon Airport – LiverpoolLeeds Bradford AirportLondon – GatwickLondon – HeathrowLondon Heathrow – Terminal 5Manchester International AirportMildenhall – MilitaryNewcastle AirportNorwich AirportRAF Lakenheath – MilitaryRhoose Airport – CardiffWoodbridge – MilitaryWoodford (Manufacturing)