"brick block cutting services"

Helping ensure the ongoing safe and reliable operation of any moveable wall system, as well as protecting the acoustic performance, Style has responded to a growing need for scheduled maintenance and repairs by appointing a new service and aftercare director. Sjors Kuijs joins Style from thyssenkrupp Elevator where he held various responsibilities for the company’s service business and brings extensive expertise in national service and support networks. Style offers a comprehensive maintenance support service – whether it’s for a routine visit or the emergency repair of an partitioning wall system.

Over 2,000m² of BEMO N65/400 in stucco embossed aluminium was supplied on the new motorway services for the M6 near Rugby. Lengths of over 60 metres required the panels to be site rolled at eaves height, while the envelope took advantage of the non-metallic GFK halter to ensure resistance to the friction forces associated with thermal movement of long roof sheets.

April 2017 and the future looked bleak for a fire-engulfed net repair factory on the small island of Scalpay. Fire crews from Scalpay, Tarbert, Leverburgh and Stornaway rushed to the scene, as the massive blaze took hold of the facility and the roof looked in danger of collapse. They deployed high pressure hoses to douse the conflagration.Opened in 2008, the factory employed 14 staff and had been used to clean, repair and apply treatment to salmon farming nets. The Norwegian owned operators of the Net Services Scotland site faced an uphill struggle to get the site back up and running again. Hampered by the remote location of the Outer Hebrides and its distance from the mainland.

Zentia worked with Ryder architects to help showcase products that can provide an in-depth insight and mechanics into behind the scenes of suspended ceilings. Featured areas was specified to use Zentia Axiom C Canopies with Aruba Max Board tiles, this enabled the students to see the suspension systems used and to showcase services behind the canopy.Through the project Aruba Max was used due to excellent acoustic performance for sound absorption and attenuation. Prelude 24mm XL2 grid was specified due to ease and speed of installation. Axiom Transition was used to provide a smooth connection where tiles meet plasterboard boarder margins throughout the project.Hydrabloc was used within the WC areas due to excellent moisture resistance capabilities and providing a Class A sound absorption. Zentia Prelude 24mm Corrosive resistance grid was specified alongside Hydrabloc due to the robust cleaning regime in keeping with being a technical college.Harton Academy can have peace of mind with Zentia 30-year system warranty for Axiom Canopies and Hydrabloc due to it be installed on Zentia Prelude 24mm XL2 grid, whereas Aruba Max comes with a lifetime warranty.These tiles have a high level of recycled content and are fully recyclable at their end-of-life.

The legacy PVC-U windows, doors and curtain walling at 15 high and low-rise blocks owned by Bristol City Council at Eastville, Easton, Clifton, Redcliffe, Shirehampton and Ashton Gate needed to be replaced to improve thermal efficiency, security and aesthetics. An experienced company was required to carry out the complex, high profile, multi-phase works required. The contract was awarded to longstanding Profile 22 Approved Window Manufacturer Emplas. The Optima 70mm fully reversible window system provides high security locking, child resistant safety catches and achieves a weather performance of 2400pa for wind, 1500pa for water and 600pa for air.

Helmsman manufactured, delivered and installed 172 two compartment heavy-duty laminate lockers with welled locker doors for Bombardier Services UK modern office space. Each bank of laminate lockers has an integrated cantilever bench running across it, which is a great space-saving solution.This locker room is an ideal space for staff and visitors. The bright area and durable lockers work well together.

Here at Helmsman, we have manufactured and installed two-compartment bespoke laminate lockers multiple times, and this was our third time working alongside Bombardier Services UK. The specification of the lockers was 1900mm high, 300mm wide, and 450mm deep. The bespoke laminate lockers were completed with end panels and sloping tops which is an excellent choice that reduces dust collection.The body of the laminate lockers was in our standard shade of ‘Ice’. The doors were in the shade of ‘Primeval Oak’ by Greenlam to match the light aesthetics of the room as well as to match the lockers that were manufactured and installed by Helmsman in 2022. The Laminate lockers were decorated with oval laminated number plates above the Camlocks. The Camlocks are a great choice in accessories, they assure the users that their personal belongings are safe and secure.

Despite the challenges posed by completing construction and opening during the first lockdown, the new Skelton Lake Motorway Services project opened in March 2020 as planned, providing essential services to hauliers and key workers travelling during the start of the pandemic. The project incorporates an extensive green roof build-up to minimise the visual and physical impacts of the development on the surrounding country park and to enhance the biodiversity of the project.The wildflower green roof design provides multiple environmental benefits; including provision of a new habitat for local insect and bird life, helping to lower the site’s carbon emissions by absorbing heat emitted from the building into the cooler roof surface - reducing the air conditioning demand in the summer months. The green roof build-up also provides a level of insulation against heat loss in winter. 

Project:Surespan designed and manufactured several floor access covers for the £6.5m Liffey Service Tunnel Project in Dublin Ireland.The service tunnel is one of the crucial links for the rejuvenation of the docklands, it will carry water mains to the docklands and transfer wastewater to the treatment plant at Ringsend. The 260m tunnel will also carry district heating pipes, gas mains, and electrical and telecommunication cables.Products:Surespan designed and manufactured several floor access covers including SAC Flush floor access covers and HIAC Recessed floor covers.All the access covers were supplied with either a gas spring-assisted opening, hydraulic or electric with a retractable safety grid and pedestrian (FACTA Class ‘A’) Loading. A hydraulic HIAC was also supplied with a FACTA Class ‘D’ Loading which is the equivalent of an 11-tonne wheel load.

With several stops marked out on the future Crossrail route, new-builds on the rise, and an impressive range of ‘Outstanding’ schools, this culturally diverse borough of Ealing is becoming more popular than ever. To meet this popularity new-build property is on the rise however there is strict guidance on design of new buildings. Licata Building Systems in partnership with Build-Therm Services Limited were commissioned to specify and supply the façade systems for The Vale apartments. A prestigious block on Connell Crescent, The Vale was subject to planning guidance that insisted the block remained in-keeping with the more traditional neighboring blocks. The system installed is Licata FireSafe Brick slips. Using a 7mm extruded brick slip the system is one of the lighest systems available on the market. Coupled with class A2 fire performance and a U-value of 0.039W/mK, the apartments not only met all NHBC and local planning design criteria but provides the occupant a safe and energy efficient environment.

A fast paced commercial project for Welcome Break motorway services at Newark. A2-s1,d0 fire rating was mandatory here, yet the design intent was to use wooden cladding to make the building pop from far away. Contemporary design with traditional materials are trending now, but often the strict fire regulations rule out materials that would be preferred. Technowood UK was able to supply a real wood veneered aluminium cladding that is compliant with all the regulations, and PSBK Limited was able to complete this installation in just 3 weeks.

Award winning McCullagh’s Classic Service Station (Spar) chose Design Tile, Shaletone on Dark Grey grout for their recent refurbishment.After the refurbishment McCullagh’s Classic Service Station went on to win three prestigious business awards – ‘NI Retailer of the Year’; ‘Food to Go of the Year’ and UK ‘Forecourt Retailer of the Year’.

CJH Tiling Services, has 10 years of tiling experience, their business covers all aspects of tiling, including kitchens, bathrooms and floors. The client’s brief was to seamlessly join two areas of tiled flooring, one upstairs and one down. They wished for a seamless flow throughout, giving the stairwell a light and airy feel whilst being hard wearing and practical.

AusNet Services, formally SP AusNet, is the largest diversified energy network business in Victoria, Australia. The company owns and operates approximately AUD$11 billion of electricity and gas transmission and distribution assets. In March 2004, the Occupational Health & Safety (Prevention of Falls) Regulations 2003 became effective, requiring AusNet Services to cease sole reliance upon dual lanyards, and to consider other attachment methods for climbers during maintenance and other transmission tower operations. MSA provided AusNet Services with not just products, but a complete service package that provided comprehensive support for AusNet Services’ ground installation team.

420 stair nosings measured and supplied to a job for N&S Flooring on behalf of Bristol City Council.

Sevenoaks School’s Science & Technology Centre, designed by Tim Ronalds Architects, brings together a diverse set of disciplines and “puts learning, education and experimentation on display”. Daylit and naturally ventilated throughout, the £23m development has a robust interior of expressive structure, evident construction and natural materials, yet feels highly transparent, with views to the landscape and beyond.

School hygiene roomThe height adjustment of the basin, toilet and shower seat is all electrically powered making it quick, easy & effortless.The room can be configured to suit multiple and individual childrens' height requirements, which will inevitably change as they grow.Working heights for different carers can be optimised.The powered toilet and shower seat also act as ‘motorised lifting aids’ helping to protect carers' backs during assisted transfers, whilst enabling the more independent children to self-transfer independently.

The award-winning Skelton Lakes motorway services near Leeds is using bespoke manufactured architectural linings from the Pendock Linea range. GRG pilasters were specified to provide a consistent finish between shop fronts, whilst integrating with the dry lined walls above. They also include a 30mm radius on each corner to ensure there are no sharp edges and a stainless-steel kick plate at the base.GRP bulkheads are used to conceal the steel floor beams at first-floor level, which were manufactured to follow the gentle curve incorporated in the design of the shop fronts. By using GRP it allows a small amount of flex to ease installation and ensures the minimum additional mass is added to the structure.

Standing tall in a prime location at the entrance to the Salford Quays – one of Greater Manchester’s most vibrant and prominent media and culture hubs – Anchorage Gateway is here to make a statement. The 250,640 sq ft, 29-storey residential high-rise, completed three months ahead of schedule, is set to be the tallest residential brickwork building in the UK.  Yet, behind this traditional brick façade finish is a design that demanded a modern approach to diverting moisture from the cavity to the outside of the building, using construction methods far more efficient than the conventional. Key information Completion date September 2023 Sector Residential Developer Cole Waterhouse Main Contractor Domis Construction Façade Contractor Kinlan Brickwork Delivery Architect Jon Matthews Architects  Products used Siderise CT Cavity Tray  Design and specification Representing the gateway entry point into Salford Quays, the build-to-rent (BTR) Erie Dock Apartments (Eda) development replaced a vacant four-storey office block of 1990s construction with a building designed to offer a truly contemporary residential experience. Hosting 290 apartments of various sizes and private amenities such as co-working spaces, a fitness studio, a screening room, and more, it was important that the building’s exterior reflected a feeling of home and community, giving it a sense of place in this rapidly developing part of the city.  The building’s L-shaped footprint is emphasised by the use of stepped massing, with the slimmer block extending to the top of the building and external rooftop terraces at the crown of each ‘block’. Each elevation is constructed from pale-coloured brickwork, supported by an SFS System and concrete core works, giving the building a solid and striking, yet clearly domestic feel in an area dominated by glazing and cladding.  Moisture management is a fundamental element of any masonry construction, and cavity trays must be installed to ensure that any rainwater entering the wall cavity through the external brickwork is directed away from the inner structure, reducing the risk of internal damp and mould. Main contractor, Domis Construction, and brickwork contractor, Kinlan, had previously been using the traditional approach comprising metal cavity trays. However, in their search for a more efficient method that could improve the speed and cost of delivery without compromising on quality, they came across Siderise CT Cavity Tray.  After carrying out their due diligence, the team engaged the Siderise Site Services to deliver training onsite, which included a benchmark installation. It was then that Domis Construction and Kinlan realised the huge labour and time-saving benefits Siderise CT Cavity Tray could offer and that ‘it did what it said on the tin’. The factory-engineered system was subsequently trialled on a section of another Salford project before being put forward to the fire consultants and building control officers for the high-rise Anchorage project.  The CT Cavity Tray achieves an A2-s1, d0 reaction to fire classification to EN 13501-1, is BBA certified and can comply with NHBC, LABC and Premier Guarantee warranty requirements.  David Ashworth, Project Manager, Domis Construction: “Siderise CT Cavity Tray has been a gamechanger for us. We’d been using traditional all-metal cavity trays, site-formed and pre-formed. Even though we’d used Siderise Cavity Barriers and Firestops before, we were somewhat unsure about this single-fix tray and insulation combo at first.   Nevertheless, we researched the product, confirming that it met regulatory compliance criteria and seeing the potential benefits in terms of time saving ability, labour cost reduction, and scaled-down site complexities associated with specialist tools, equipment, and segregated workshop areas for onsite fabrication.”  Installation and inspection Over 3,200 units of Siderise CT Cavity tray were used on the project, helping to realise installation benefits that carried real value for the project. On previous projects where traditional cavity tray solutions were used, the installation teams would need to share masts with the bricklayers on a 50/50 circa ratio. This meant that the bricklayers would take longer to complete their job, due to the time it would take to form and fit the cavity trays, as well as other products, ahead of them.   By using the pre-engineered Siderise CT Cavity Tray, which combines a flexible aluminium tray with non-combustible insulation, the installation team was able to install this lightweight element much faster with just a cutting knife and sealing tape for joining at details such as corners or windows. The requirement for specialist equipment, isolated onsite workshop zones, vast site storage facilities, soldering, sealants and installing insulation as a separate fix and was eliminated, enabling them to free up mast usage, with an estimated ratio of 70/30 in the bricklayers’ favour, speeding up the build programme.   David Ashworth, Project Manager, Domis Construction: “Working with our brickwork contractor, Kinlan, the Siderise Site Services team came down and delivered an in-person practical training programme before the install and it was during this in-depth session that we started to realise the operational advantages it would have. They have also been supporting us continually on the build, checking how we are installing their product and giving us any advice necessary to ensure a top-class delivery.”  Summary Anchorage Gateway demonstrates, with tangible evidence, how traditional building methods can be improved using modern products that have been engineered and tested to meet the demands of contemporary construction, allowing the creation of beautiful brickwork buildings without sacrificing on speed or quality of build.  

London Brick White was recently installed in this bright and welcoming Bubble Tea Café in Newcastle. Its natural texture, high quality finish and durable nature made it the ideal choice. Having seen the sample, the designers knew this was a lightweight, durable panel solution with the right finish for the client. Our technical team produced panel layouts and communicated the most efficient layout to reduce waste and ensure the design was as cost-effective as possible. The panels were installed rapidly, resulting in a bright and welcoming space that's ready for business.

The management of the UK’s education estate facilities has never been more important. Responding to this, partitioning expert Style has recently undertaken planned maintenance work, as part of a 3-year service agreement, in a cluster of Scottish schools, quickly rectifying small areas of wear and tear that could otherwise have led to larger repair costs. Style’s in-house trained team of technicians operates nationwide and is authorised and fully qualified to service and maintain, not only all Dorma Hüppe and Skyfold moveable walls, for which we are sole UK distributor, but also most other systems too,

Royal Holloway, University of London Library and Student Services Project Profile - features a 10,000 sq metre installation of Milliken modular carpet including a range of designs: Culture Canvas, Laylines and Clerkenwell - Three Corners. This case study demonstrates the acoustic performance of Milliken's cushion backed modular carpet tiles.

HAG was honoured to be chosen to install industrial doors on the new headquarters for the Dorset Fire Service, designed by Prince Charles. The £3 million building included grand neo-classical design and a mock balcony, which meant HAG had to be particularly careful in the design and planning of the installation. The specification was to match the styling of the three-storey fire station while still providing the high levels of security and ease of use required for the situation. Our industrial Q Doors perfectly balanced the stunning aesthetics with the structural integrity and functionality required for this prestigious contract.

Abingdon School, located in Oxfordshire, commissioned Hopkins Architects to design a new science building in 2008. The building was to replace the outdated facilities and provide modern teaching and research spaces for the school’s science departments. The resulting design is a striking and dynamic building with a distinctive form created by a series of angled, sloping roofs that follow the natural contours of the site.Hopkins Architects chose to clad the building in Michelmersh’s Hampshire Stock Downs blend. Its soft red tones ingratiate itself with the local vernacular while also being easy to maintain and ensuring long-term durability.The Abingdon School Science Building by Hopkins Architects has been a great success, providing modern and flexible teaching and research spaces that are highly valued by students and staff. The building’s innovative design and sustainable features have won numerous awards, including a RIBA Award and a BREEAM Excellent rating. The building seamlessly integrates into its historic surroundings, enhancing the school’s facilities and reducing its environmental impact.

The ChallengeAn Italian restaurant in central London wanted its ceiling to be the heart of a new design that would be a visual interpretation of contemporary Italian taste.The SolutionDesigned by Andy Martin Architecture, the intricate ceiling was constructed using 32,155 bricks requiring 55 different dimensions to be cut by hand to create a smooth, curved surface.Forterra’s plain Fletton bricks were found to have the necessary smoothness and hardness to accommodate the amount of cutting required.The colour of the bricks was modified by washing with a lime slurry to achieve a soft, elegant but rustic surface.The BenefitsVisually striking, the sculptural ceiling adds to the dining experience.The project was shortlisted in the 2017 BDA Brick Awards in the Innovative Use of Brick and Clay Products category. Fucina was awarded Best London Restaurant and Best UK Restaurant at the 2017 Restaurant & Bar Design Awards.

We provided a bespoke locker where each employee can operate a unit of 4 compartments with one key giving them access to a twin locker for storing their clothing on one side and collecting clean workwear from the other side. Two further locker compartments above this provide storage for footwear and lunch boxes. The sloping tops keep the room clutter free and reflect the light around the room. At each end the design includes lockers for crash helmets; these bespoke lockers match the colour scheme and merge with the others to provide a unique managed system.

Starboard Hotels and Maith Architects invited Licata Building Systems and Licata contracting partner Build-Therm Services Limited to assist with the redevelopment of the previous Park Royal bar to provide a 162-bedroom Hampton by Hilton hotel. The original building, lying vacant and in a state of disrepair, has a listed Art Deco façade, which has been retained and refurbished to its former glory, with the new hotel being built in behind and wrapped over with new, substantially glazed floors and Licata FireSafe Brick Slip system. Completed in 2018, the system comprised of 160mm high density mineral fibre, comfortably achieving the target U Value of 0.04W/mK. The brick slips were selected and cut from handformed clay to match the original building.

We have improved the drainage system at this lorry park and service station in this town to the north of London.  The problem was that the drainage system installed in the area did not have sufficient capacity to drain the rainwater, leading to dangerous accumulations of water on the road surface.Service stations and lorry parks have a constant flow of vehicles. There are also some areas where HGVs turn, making it necessary to guarantee the safety of the installation of the channels in order to prevent breakages and accidents.Good advice on your drainage system avoids problems and gives you peace of mind.In these cases, it is essential to have a consultancy service that, taking into account all the necessary parameters (location, rainfall, surface slope, weight to be borne by the grating (load type) and length of the drainage line), defines the model best suited to the site.In this project, 250 ml of Civil-F polymer concrete channels, model F150K, were installed for load type F900. And it has a grating secured at 8 points. It is important for you to know this.

Built in 1986, Dukes Court was viewed as a symbol of Woking’s economic growth, offering 220,000 sq. ft. of premium office accommodation. These works will ensure Dukes Court continues to play an important role in the town’s future.The front of Dukes Court underwent an extensive remodelling, creating a landscaped pedestrianised public plaza and restaurant with outdoor seating. The building features an impressive full height living ‘green’ wall, which is one of the tallest in Europe. The building is arranged over five blocks which are accessed via three separate reception areas, leading to the flexible floor plates which all benefit from excellent natural light.Other features include:A larger than life statue of composer and suffragette Dame Ethel Smyth will proudly conduct passers-by in the centre of the pedestrianised plaza.New signage and pedestrian routes which will enhance the visitor experience.Relocation of main vehicle entrance from Dukes Street to Stanley RoadMaybury Road, Stanley Road and The Broadway junctions improvements.Granite from around the world (mainly the far east) included BBS Steel (mid grey) granite, Haze (silver grey) granite, Barzan (black) basalt, and Peppercorn (pink) granite.

A Stannah Maxilift MRLi motor room-less passenger lift and Goodsmaster CD chain drive goods lift are the moving solutions of choice for Meridian Grand, a luxury banqueting, conference and events venue in Edmonton, North London. Both Stannah lifts help Meridian Grand deliver a first class service, whether this is for small, intimate gatherings or large, corporate occasions – from weddings to big-number fund raisers – all in opulent surroundings that are the hallmark of this family run business.

As part of the refit, the building required a new roof as it was showing signs of wear and had started to leak. As well as a waterproofing solution, the client wanted to improve the thermal performance in line with current building regulations. For health and safety reasons, the client also requested a flame free roofing solution.

High quality new build development project of balconies and terracesThis prestige development in the historic heritage location of London Dock is a stone’s throw from the iconic St Katharine Docks with its lively community packed with places to eat and relax and beautiful moored yachts. Within easy walking distance to many of London’s signature landmarks, including St Pauls Cathedral, Tower Bridge, The Tower of London, The Shard and Borough Market this beautiful development is proving to be a high demand for those that love the city lifestyle whilst still retaining the ability to “step back” for a while.The development has extensive apartment terraces as well as balconies which give amazing views of the London skyline and have been superbly decked by the AYM team.

Heritage Vacuum Glazing: A Transformative Case Study for Renovating Listed Buildings and Conservation AreasIntroduction:Renovating heritage properties, including listed buildings and those in conservation areas, presents unique challenges in balancing preservation with modern standards of energy efficiency and sustainability. In this case study, we explore the application of heritage vacuum glazing as a solution for renovating a historic listed building, showcasing its transformative impact on architectural preservation and performance improvements.Case Study: Renovating a Historic Listed BuildingBackground Information:The case study focuses on a remarkable historic listed building dating back to the 18th century. Situated within a conservation area renowned for its architectural significance, the building exhibits exquisite craftsmanship and unique architectural details. However, the existing single-glazed windows posed challenges in terms of thermal inefficiency, noise penetration, and condensation issues.Challenges Faced:The architectural team encountered several challenges during the renovation process. Striking a delicate balance between preserving the building's historical charm and incorporating contemporary elements that enhance functionality was paramount. Compliance with conservation regulations was crucial to ensure the preservation of the building's original fabric and character.Selection of Heritage Vacuum Glazing:After careful consideration and collaboration with conservation specialists, heritage vacuum glazing emerged as the ideal solution for upgrading the building's fenestration. The slim profile of the glazing units closely resembled the original windows, ensuring minimal disruption to the building's architectural aesthetics. The vacuum glazing technology offered superior thermal insulation, acoustic performance, and condensation control, aligning with both conservation requirements and performance objectives.Installation Process and Considerations:During the installation process, the architectural team collaborated with specialist manufacturers experienced in heritage vacuum glazing. Meticulous attention to detail was crucial to seamlessly integrate the new glazing units with the existing window frames while preserving the historic fabric. Preservation techniques were employed to minimise any damage and maintain the building's authenticity throughout the installation.Benefits Achieved:The implementation of heritage vacuum glazing resulted in a multitude of benefits for the renovated listed building. The enhanced thermal insulation significantly reduced heat loss, leading to improved energy efficiency and reduced heating costs. The upgraded windows provided exceptional acoustic insulation, creating a peaceful indoor environment despite the bustling surroundings. Condensation issues were effectively addressed, preventing damage to the building's interior finishes and improving occupant comfort and well-being. Furthermore, the advanced security features of the vacuum glazing enhanced the protection of the building, safeguarding its historic fabric for future generations to appreciate.Testimonials and Feedback:Architects, specifiers, and building occupants expressed their satisfaction with the outcome of the renovation project involving heritage vacuum glazing. Architects praised the technology for seamlessly integrating with the building's original design, while specifiers commended its compliance with conservation regulations. Building occupants enjoyed the improved thermal comfort, reduced noise intrusion, and enhanced visual clarity provided by the heritage vacuum glazing. Their testimonials underscored the success of the solution in achieving a harmonious balance between preservation and modern comfort.Conclusion:This case study highlights the successful application of heritage vacuum glazing in the renovation of a listed building within a conservation area. By effectively addressing the challenges of thermal inefficiency, noise penetration, and condensation, heritage vacuum glazing emerged as a transformative solution. Its ability to preserve architectural aesthetics, enhance energy efficiency, improve acoustic insulation, and safeguard historic fabric makes it a preferred choice for architects and specifiers involved in renovating heritage properties.Through careful consideration of factors like compatibility, authenticity preservation, compliance with regulations, collaboration with specialists, and professional installation, the transformative potential of heritage vacuum glazing can be realised, ensuring a harmonious blend of historic authenticity and modern performance.

The ChallengeTramways is a 402-bedroomed new build student accommodation complex for Chester University. It comprises 356 en-suite cluster rooms and 56 en-suite studios incorporating communal kitchens and living rooms.The development was to be split into five blocks of accommodation, with each block between three and five storeys in height.The SolutionForterra’s Dark Multi Smooth and County Multi Smooth bricks were selected for the project’s facing brickwork. Used alongside zinc wall cladding, these red bricks helped to create interest and variety in the external appearance of each of the five blocks.Part of Forterra’s Butterley range of bricks they are both smooth, wirecut bricks. While County Multi Smooth is a fully red brick, Dark Multi Smooth introduces elements of blue.The BenefitsThe juxtaposition of the metallic cladding with the red and blue facing brickwork ensures the Tramways development offers its own, unique architectural interest while at the same time complementing the local built environment of this part of Chester.

AFL Architects wanted design consistency across the separate psychiatric intensive care unit and adult inpatient rehabilitation wards in this new Mental Health facility, in Leigh, Wigan. Our electronic locksets were used across the wards, offering superior safety for staff and service users – as the only electronic locksets with Staff Override System, staff can always gain access in an emergency. And offering service users control over their own living space by issuing a harmless key fob also met the trust's requirements of promoting service user independence and restoring dignity.

James Watt Dock is a development of 137 new-build one- and two-bedroomed flats for social rent. The homes, built over five blocks, will offer residents magnificent views over the historic dock and the River Clyde. Residents will also benefit from parking, amenity units, and a landscaped public space.PROJECT INFOThe site is a brownfield waterfront site adjacent to the Grade A listed Sugar Sheds, which are a unique example of Scotland’s Victorian industrial architecture. The sheds became the design driver, aiding the architects in establishing mass, orientation, position and material.Farmstead Antique, from Forterra’s Butterley range, with its tumbled and distressed multi patches, was selected for its similarity to the bricks used in the Sugar Sheds. It allowed the design of the new development to relate to the historic building while delivering a modern, clean-cut façade.With a water absorbency of only 7%, the brick also offered the high technical performance required owing to the development’s location on the Firth of the Clyde, a robust marine environment.