"air terminal devices"

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.

SAS International ceiling rafts were installed into the meeting rooms, directly suspended from the structural soffit to allow for energy efficient movement of air for thermal-mass-cooling. Chosen for its acoustic properties, SAS600 offers acoustic performance tailored to interior requirements through absorptive and reflective techniques. The visually engaging SAS500 was selected for the office zones and circulation areas. This system conceals M&E services and offers an attractive acoustic ceiling. Both systems supplied to the One Molesworth Street project were in a pre-coat timber effect to achieve an organic interior aesthetic, creating a striking feature ceiling.

Bespoke garage and car port doors from Rundum Meir, which provide natural ventilation and daylighting into enclosed garage spaces, can deliver a seamless aesthetic result in contemporary architecture featuring vertical timber board-on-batten cladding. This is illustrated at the Abode development in Cambridgeshire, where the architects delivered uniformity across different housing styles using a limited palette of materials. Horizontal and vertical cladding was extended into the doors for the car ports manufactured in matching oak. These ventilated doors enable fresh air and daylight to flow through the car ports from the rear gardens, adding an interesting visual dimension.

A lovely example of our CGA01 cast iron grilles, these classic heritage designs are in keeping with the shop fronts in this beautiful Georgian street in central London. Britannia Metalwork grilles can be powder coated in any RAL paint, or a bespoke colour as seen here to match the setting. They can be used to disperse heat or set into steps or walls on the outside of houses to act as air vents for ventilation in cellars and basements covers, or set into the flooring of external or internal balconies.Providing an elegant and decorative solution to a practical application, please see the full range of designs on our website or contact us to discuss our bespoke service.

A major part of the project was restoring the building’s original wood windows, which had been covered over with aluminum windows 30 years ago. The aging units—242 in total—had suffered from fogging, failing glass, air leakage, & broken balances that rendered them inoperable. Window manufacturer Re-View, were selected to restore the windows. Re-View restored the windows using restoration epoxies and replicated Accoya wood parts. Re-view chose Accoya due to its durability and 50 year guarantee. As forecasted at the start of construction in 2013, the work will be completed in June 2017.

In 2014 landmark building No1 Aire Street underwent a dramatic transformation. The Grade II listed, 1930s Art Deco property is in Leeds City Centre Conservation Area. Significant consultation with Leeds City Council planning department and the owner Network Rail’s planners was carried out to ensure the proposals were historically compatible with the existing building. Almost a hundred original steel windows had to be replaced as sympathetically as possible but with a product which would bring improved thermal efficiency. Clement EB24 suite of bespoke steel windows was specified for the project offering high specification along with elegant, robust frame sections.

Completed WorksClean RoomAluminium grid systemsLine 55A 200 sqmIntegrated lightsSH LED-H 49 Pcs.Supply airFilter Fan Unit (FFU) 22 Pcs.Accessories for clean room ceilingsInspection hatch for clean room ceilings 10 Pcs.Partition systems 100Multiclean LVT 370 sqmMulticlean LVT 437 15 Pcs.Hinged doorsSwing MPH 7 Pcs.Door interlocking systemsDoor interlocking system Inline 2 5 Pcs.Airlock systemsMaterial pass box Matlock REG 1 Pcs.

Products: Flexi heavy & Flexi access– Heavy Duty Frames & QUAD’s. Services: Plantroom, Generator, Air-handling units and bespoke access solutions. Roof build-up: Warm roof design – Mastic Asphalt. Pump House designed individual frameworks for each item of plant, paying particular attention to correct load management through our frameworks down to the roof finish. Pump House met the contractor on-site during the assembly of frameworks to ensure a trouble free installation. We also prepared ahead of the installation AutoCAD drawings depicting the correct support of each unit, as well as pressure and roof loading calculations.

Troldtekt 100% wood wool acoustic panels have been used to dramatic effect at London’s famous Open Air Theatre in Regents Park. A newly-constructed rehearsal building, designed by architects Reed Watt, comprises a stunning double-height dance and rehearsal studio in its centre encircled by offices, kitchen and green room. Troldtekt wood wall panelling in natural grey also complement the natural setting while helping to dampen and keep reverberated sound to a minimum. The rehearsal studio has been acoustically rated so that the maximum noise level that can happen in the studio before being audible outside is 100dB.

The Remember Me memorial portico at St Paul’s Cathedral is a physical memorial to all those that died as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Entered via the cathedral’s North Transept entrance it is home to the online book of remembrance. Designed by Caroe Architecture with Connolly Wellingham, the portico is a beautiful, elliptical structure crafted in the UK and featuring several GEZE doors.As a visitor enters the cathedral from the North Transept they pass through a pair of swing doors powered by GEZE Powerturn automatic swing door operators. These doors take the visitor into the memorial and were chosen as they can open large or heavy doors and offer the flexibility of allowing the doors to be used both manually and automatically due to GEZE’s Smart swing function.Above the doors, etched in to the structure in gold are the words ‘ Remembering all who died as a result of the coronavirus pandemic’. Once inside the portico, visitors can view the online Remember Me memorial, search for and view the tribute to their loved one, light a candle and take a moment to pause and reflect in this tranquil space. The online book is open to all people, whatever their faith or none. From the memorial portico the main entrance into the cathedral is through GEZE’s TSA 325 NT, a manual revolving door with 4 leaves. The revolving door was chosen as it minimises air flow into the cathedral as only one quadrant is open at a time. To ensure access for all a GEZE Slimdrive SCR curved automatic sliding doors was installed opposite the revolving door enabling those who are less able, or people with children in buggies, can still visit the memorial and access the cathedral. The Slimdrive SCR is controlled by wave sensors to ensure the doors only open when requested. This is part of the portico’s design to minimise air flow.Across all the glass in the doors are beautiful phrases such as ‘we will always remember’ and ‘never forget’. The Remember Me memorial portico is a poignant tribute to those who died as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic and is the most significant change to St Paul’s Cathedral in 300 years. Following the public response to the online memorial, and in partnership with the Daily Mail, over £2million was raised to give the Remember Me memorial a physical home within the Cathedral. Said GEZE’s National Specification Manager, Richard Richardson-Derry: ‘We were honoured to play a part in the construction of the Remember Me memorial. The combined challenges of minimising air flow, ensuring equal access and creating a beautiful structure to recognise those lives lost has been successfully achieved’.

Energy Efficient Heritage Windows for a Victorian RetrofitThe retrofit of Mews House, a low-energy Victorian listed mews property in West London, showcases how heritage windows can be utilised in a retrofit project to enhance energy efficiency while preserving the building's character and historical features.A Conservation Area GemBuilt in 1878 as a traditional carriage house with stable doors, Mews House was later converted into a residential property. However, over time, it suffered from poor layout, inadequate heating, and tired exterior facades. Architects Prewett Bizley undertook the challenge of transforming the interior into a light-filled open-plan living space, improving the property's external appearance while adhering to the local conservation area guidelines, and significantly reducing its carbon footprint.The Role of Winston Sliding Sash WindowsReplacing the existing single-glazed windows with Gowercroft's Winston Sliding Sash windows played a vital role in achieving the project's sustainability and conservation objectives. The architect required windows with higher performance levels, including superior thermal efficiency and a traditional timber aesthetic that matched the original "multi-pane" windows, which was crucial for securing planning permission. A total of 16 Winston Sliding Sash windows of various sizes were installed, featuring traditional joinery elements such as glazing bars, fitch fasteners, pulleys, and concealed gaskets, creating an authentic appearance.Energy Efficiency and AchievementsThe use of vacuum glazing in the windows provided excellent energy efficiency, achieving an overall U-value of 1.5 W/m²K, with the potential to reach even lower values in future iterations. The air tightness of the frames, coupled with Gowercroft's sealing system, contributed to an impressive air tightness rating of close to 1 m³/m²hr at 50Pa, surpassing expectations for a property of this kind.The retrofit of Mews House resulted in an astounding 82% reduction in overall energy consumption, bringing it below the 2025 RIBA targets for new build houses. The replacement sash windows played a pivotal role in achieving this energy reduction, both through their U-value and by minimising air infiltration.Bob Prewett from Prewett Bizley expressed his satisfaction, stating, "What's amazing when people visit is that they are totally convinced the windows are original and single glazed."The successful integration of energy-efficient heritage windows in the Mews House retrofit sets a new benchmark for heritage preservation combined with sustainable design and demonstrates the potential for revitalising older properties to meet the energy standards of new builds.

Chris’s nature inspired garden sculptures are beautiful. From his small ferns to his large grass plumes, every piece is hand crafted with love and care.He offers his sculptures in two finishes; rustic and stainless steel. The rustic style has a beautiful rich brown finish, whilst the stainless steel version offers a shiny finish that reflects the surrounding areas.We think you will agree that both are stunningChris’s nature inspired garden sculptures are beautiful. From his small ferns to his large grass plumes, every piece is hand crafted with love and care.He offers his sculptures in two finishes; rustic and stainless steel. The rustic style has a beautiful rich brown finish, whilst the stainless steel version offers a shiny finish that reflects the surrounding areas.We think you will agree that both are stunning.Here’s what Chris has to say about Owatrol Oil:When I first started creating garden sculptures I tested out a range of oils and paints, looking for a finish that would enhance my work. Owatrol oil has proved to be the best, giving my rusted ferns a lovely dark satin finish. When asked, most of my clients prefer the oiled finish and it’s very easy to apply. On a sunny day I oil my sculptures in the garden and they’re dry in a few hours.When it comes to more complicated designs such as seed heads, the aerosol is great at covering the ‘hard to reach’ areas.I’ve been using Owatrol for over 5 years now, it just gives a quality finish.Chris offers a wide range of products. From garden sculptures, to fire-pit cubes and ornamental panels, you will easily find something beautiful for your garden.What is Owatrol Oil?Owatrol oil is a versatile, highly penetrating air drying oil. As a rust inhibitor it provides a tough, flexible finish, driving out excess moisture and air; displacing it from rusted metal, so stopping rust dead in its tracks.Owatrol Oil penetrates through the rusted metal to the sound metal below, isolating it and protecting it from further rusting. As it’s a penetrating oil it can be used directly on the rusted surfaces. It drives out moisture and air and stabilises the metal to protect it from future damage.Head on over to C K Garden Sculptures and take a look for yourself at Chris’s amazing work.

Overview A collaborative project with our long-lasting customers Jet Environmental Systems resulted in the successful installation of three HEM-SLx 525kW heat exchange modules, aimed at providing warehouse heating for a prominent automotive component warehouse in Ellesmere Port. The project involved a bespoke-designed air handling unit (AHU) expertly manufactured by Linton Services Ltd and delivered as a comprehensive turnkey heating solutionBackgroundThe warehouse had a substantial floor area of 39,000m2 and a volume of 760,000m3. The main requirement was to maintain an internal temperature of 16C degrees, even during outdoor temperatures as low as -4C degrees. To ensure efficient heating and uniform distribution throughout the space, a HEM-SL heating solution with a capacity of 525kW and an airflow of 37.5m3/s was needed. The client preferred natural gas as the heating fuel, which Jet Environmental incorporated into their custom-designed air handling unit (AHU) manufactured by Linton Services Ltd in Presteigne.SolutionThe warehouse layout and heating load necessitated the use of three air-handling units. To ensure a reliable and robust heating system, Jet Environmental selected Powrmatic as the heating supplier. Jet Environmental, Linton Services, and Powrmatic have a longstanding relationship and extensive knowledge of each other’s businesses. This familiarity ensures seamless integration of their products and expertise.Each custom-designed HEM unit was manufactured in the UK at Powrmatic’s manufacturing in Ilminster, Somerset. By choosing British-built products, customers can have confidence in the reliability, durability, and adherence to strict industry standards. Each HEMx unit is custom made with a wide range of kW and size configurations and has been adapted to suit the needs of the OEM and AHU industry by the provision of its slot-in casing arrangement.ResultThe collaborative efforts of Jet Environmental Systems, Linton Services, and Powrmatic resulted in the successful implementation of an efficient heating solution for the automotive component warehouse. The customized AHUs, designed by Jet Environmental and manufactured by Linton Services, effectively delivered the required heating capacity to maintain a consistent internal temperature of 16C degrees. Powrmatic’s reliable heating equipment ensured optimal performance and met the client’s expectations.The client was impressed with the comprehensive turnkey solution provided by Jet Environmental Systems. They were particularly satisfied with the partnership between Jet Environmental, Linton Services, and Powrmatic, which demonstrated a deep understanding of their businesses and the ability to deliver a reliable and efficient heating system.Overall, the successful completion of this project showcases the expertise that Powrmatic has in providing effective warehouse heating solutions for industrial applications.

OverviewKEA Dublin is a 2787m² shopping centre in Ballymun Ireland which required a full smoke ventilation system from Powrmatic.Project BackgroundIKEA Dublin is 30,000 square-foot shopping centre in Ballymun Ireland which required a full smoke ventilation system from Powrmatic.Project SolutionPowrmatic supplied 73 Roof Opensky smoke ventilators to the new IKEA store in Dublin. Specified and installed by Air Design Systems Ltd, the installation is providing full smoke ventilation to five separate areas within the store.The second area is the show room and café which were naturally ventilated by louvred ventilators and split into zones using a fixed smoke curtain. A similar approach was taken with the self-serve warehouse and checkout area, which was also naturally ventilated using louvred ventilators and fixed smoke curtains. Polycarbonate blades are used on the louvred ventilators to allow natural light to enter the spaces. Additionally, the escape staircases were ventilated using louvred ventilators at the head of the stairs and a local control panel with an emergency break glass.Project Result“We were involved from the very early in the design stages of the project, using our knowledge and experience of installations within other IKEA stores and warehouses to engineer a suitable, cost-effective solution,” recalled  Air Design Systems Ltd Director Alan Clare.“Within these works we have had to include for three separate main control panels, all electrical wiring run in fire-protected cable, local control panels with emergency break glasses and a mimic control panel linking all smoke ventilation zones. We also provided rain sensors, roof access hatches, and head of lift shaft cowls,” he added.Due to the success of the project, there was a requirement within a year of opening to extend the warehouse area. Air Design Systems Ltd was awarded the sub-contract to extend the system into the new space and link back to the existing control system. In total, a further 14 Powrmatic ventilators were installed in the warehouse roof & walls and at the head of the two additional emergency staircases.Powrmatic’s Roof Opensky ventilators are attractive, low-profile units that have been specifically designed for both smoke and heat exhaust and natural ventilation applications. The Opensky can be roof or wall mounted for exhaust or inlet and can be supplied with a hinged base for use as an access hatch. They are tested for use as smoke ventilators to BS EN 12101-2.

Protecting detection systems is vital to fire safety with only a functioning smoke alarm able to protect you in an emergency.Landlord regulations and Government policesLandlords have responsibilities to keep tenants safe in their properties by providing functioning life safety equipment.Regulations introduced in 2015 require private sector landlords to ensure they ‘have at least one smoke alarm installed on every storey of their properties’ as a legal requirement.There is also a proposed change to this regulation, coming into effect later this year, which will mean social housing is also included, making it mandatory that all rented accommodation must have working smoke alarms fitted. It will also be compulsory for landlords to repair or replace any faulty alarms as soon as they are made aware of defects.Fines up to £5000To protect their tenant, it is the landlord’s responsibility to ensure detectors are fitted and working at the start of every new tenancy agreement. Failure to comply with The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations introduced in 2015 can result in a hefty fine of up to £5000.One exasperated landlord wrote online that in one of his properties “Two of the detector heads have been tampered with, presumably so that the tenants can smoke in their rooms”. Consequently, this had been causing false fire alarms and it is up to the landlord to repair or replace the alarm.In some extreme cases, landlords have discovered that smoke alarms have been removed all together from properties, due to disturbances when cooking, smoking, etc. It is then up to the landlord to replace the alarm, and so it is advisable to invest in measures to prevent the alarms removal; some recommendations have been made in government legislations such as BS 5839-6:2019.Ultimately, landlords should feel obligated to ensure regular testing of smoke alarms and the replacement of batteries in their properties to reduce the risk of void insurance or a remedial notice. Simply testing smoke alarms can also help to prevent any danger to tenants and damage to properties should a fire occur.BS 5839-6:2019The latest recommendations in BS 5839-6:2019 are primarily concerned with saving lives and reducing injuries caused by fire, but also covers reducing property damage, which can be extremely costly to landlords in the case of fires.The guidance in BS 5839-6:2019 suggests that in environments such as HMOs, where multiple occupants can be disturbed by false alarms, landlords could alter their smoke alarms systems to have delays before the signal is sent to all tenants for the occupier to investigate the cause. This can help to reduce complacency during false fire alarms or the temptation to dangerously compromise smoke alarms.The recommendation also states that landlords should seek alternative smoke alarms that can alert to intervention or disablement of the alarm in the event of tenants continually tampering.Tenants’ responsibilityAlthough it is the landlords legal duty to provide working smoke alarms in all properties, tenants must not tamper with smoke alarm, remove them, cover them up or in any other way damage or prevent them from operating in their intended manner. Failure to comply with this could result in the tenant facing a substantial fine, or termination of their tenancy agreement.It falls to the tenants to take their own safety into consideration and should contact landlords if there are any issues with smoke alarms, such as false fire alarms, so their landlord can test and replace the batteries, or alarms themselves if necessary. Preventing alarms from effectively detecting fires can result in fatal incidents and also fines for misconduct falling to the tenants.One student at Edinburgh University covered the smoke alarm in his room with bubble wrap whilst living in student accommodation. Preventing the smoke detector from working effectively proved a dangerous mistake when a fire started in his room and he had to be pulled to safety after being found struggling to escape the flames while the building was being evacuated. As a consequence for this reckless behaviour, he was fined and ordered to pay £1000 in compensation after being arrested and pleading guilty.Steel Web Stoppers®  Safety Technology International is a specialist manufacturer of a range of fire, safety and security products; their wire cages help to prevent tampering with essential life safety equipment, such as smoke alarms.STI’s Steel Web Stoppers®  are designed to protect against vandalism, misuse and damage to smoke and fire detectors. Constructed from plastic coated, heavy-duty galvanised steel rod, the Steel Web Stoppers can withstand the severest of abuse from vandalism or accidental damage. It also prevents tampering with the alarm, without hindering legitimate use, therefore still allowing the landlord to service the device and replace batteries when appropriate.

Our case study video featuring our customer, Interior Writer and Stylist Reena. The case showcases a single storey Bungalow, transformed into a contemporary, Scandinavian inspired family home, with the use of Vario by VELUX Rooflights. Reena, like us, is passionate about Daylight and Fresh Air and whilst this is evident throughout her home, the Danish concept of Hygge was also a huge inspiration for her renovation. Hygge = Referring to comfort, pleasure and warmth within simple soothing things such as a cosy atmosphere. We think Reena has managed to achieve exactly that, with the use of Natural Light reflecting and shifting against beautiful raw materials inside her home. 

The LAMILUX U.K Ltd installation team recently completed a school refurb project in York, where they installed an incredible 65 meter long X 2.4 meter wide LAMILUX Continuous Barrel Vault Rooflight. Designed with 16 integrated single ventilation flaps, evenly spaced along the rooflight for natural ventilation, the Barrel Vault rooflight, was positioned above classrooms and communal areas to not only enhance natural daylight in the rooms below, but also provide natural aeriation. Results from studies have proven that ventilation coupled with natural daylight will not only enhance the learning of the pupils in the classrooms, but also enhance the pupils health benefits with good indoor air quality. 

In spring 2015, the Spitzacker shopping centre in Urdorf (ZH) was reopened after considerable renovation and extension. The retail area has been totally transformed and has almost doubled in size, with numerous new tenants. There are 13 new stores housed in the complex, built in the style of a bright, spacious mall with a glass roof.All shop entrances feature record THERMCORD sliding doors with thermal insulation. The benefits of the THERMCORD model are very clear, as it plugs one of the last gaps in a building’s thermal insulation. During the day the doors provide regular, reliable service, and after closing prevent heat loss, or heat penetrating into a space requiring controlled air temperatures.www.migros.ch

On this office refurbishment the original windows were non-thermally broken aluminium and for that reason not suitable for a residential tenancy.With the windows being on the 12th floor it would have been extremely difficult and expensive to replace them - due to scaffolding etc. Therefore, after a recommendation, the client decided to source Incarnation secondary glazing.As an office refurbishment in a busy built-up area, noise reduction was a key consideration. Using a hidden coupling bar between two units was a key feature, allowing the secondary glazing to match the sightlines of the original windows perfectly. By installing the secondary glazing with an air gap of 150mm between it and the existing window resulted in an impressive decibel reduction.

Smart 22 @ project is a building that arises from the industrial legacy of Poblenou in Barcelona, Spain. It was designed by GCA Architects inspired by the values of modernity, sustainability, and technology and that becomes the First Smart Building in Spain, with Leed Platinum V4 and Well Gold certification. It also has AAA and Wiredscore certifications.The project stands out for its sustainable characteristics and high energy efficiency. Any construction material and elements take part in this purpose. In this context, our Premium Plus roller shades with Polyscreen® 501 contribute to optimal solar management as well as to reduce energy consumption and energy savings in heating and air conditioning. First Smart Building in Spain - 2023

Products: Flexi light – Flexi Base & Extender frames, Flexi heavy – Ahu Frameworks, Flexi everyday – Duct, pipe and electrical containment. Services: VRF Condensers & Air handling units. Roof build-up: Warm roof design – PIR/PUR insulation with PVC/TPO field membrane. Supplied via a wholesaler in Cardiff, our hot dip galvanised frameworks were supplied in lengths and widths to suit each unit being supported. With all products available from stock, the contractor ordered frameworks in stages, to suit the phased project programme, and eliminated having to find space within an already restricted working environment for everything to be delivered at once.

Responding to a growing awareness of the importance of indoor air quality, Style’s manufacturing partner, Dorma Hüppe, is pleased to announce that their Variflex moveable wall system far exceeded expectations in a recent emissions test carried out by the independent laboratory, eco-INSTITUT.Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were analysed and evaluated, delivering reference values of only 0.021 mg/m³. This is an outstanding result given that the recommended maximum level, according to AgBB (Committee for Health-related Evaluation of Building Products) is ≤ 1 mg/m³.The result is particularly significant for architects, contractors and end-users choosing moveable walls for sustainable buildings, as not only were the individual parts tested, but also a complete Variflex 100 moveable wall with an opening height of 2800mm.This consisted of a full-wall element, telescopic element and pass door with wheels and suspension. This created a ‘worst case scenario’, with all three elements being tested at dimensions that reflected a potential real-life installation, yet Dorma Hüppe still came out with exceptional figures.“These test results show just how far advanced Dorma Hüppe is with its strategy to develop highly sustainable moveable wall solutions,” said Julian Sargent, Style’s group managing director.“By using such high-quality, environmentally friendly material, it means Style can meet even the most demanding sustainable building specifications and, as is the case with the Variflex 100, it is also helping to maintain unpolluted indoor air quality.”Style is the UK’s market leading moveable, folding and partitioning wall specialist and, through their exclusive UK partnership with Dorma Huppe, were the first ever UK supplier of EPD certified moveable walls in accordance with ISO 14025 and EN15804.

Fearnach House on The Black Isle in the Highlands of Scotland was designed by architect Iain Macbeath, and built by the firm’s sister company, Thermopassive.The house is a 190m² new house, built to the architect’s “Thermopassive” specification with larch timber and render walls and profiled metal roofing. It has PV solar panels with a “diverter” heating up water and charging an electric car. High levels of thermal capacity storage in an insulated concrete floor slab (so it stays warm and flattens out rapid temperature fluctuations) and very good air tightness.There are no cold bridges (which is more important than you would think) and also a heat recovery ventilation system for fresh air.This project uses FAKRO top hung and pivot window preSelect MAX and L-shaped combination windows.When asked, why Fakro roof windows were specified for the project, Ian McBeath told us, “We have been specifying and buying Fakro roof lights for many years. They are well-priced compared with competitive products and of excellent quality and design.The positioning of the handles at the bottom of the window is also a major factor. It makes it much easier to operate a window with the handles at the bottom rather than the top of the window, which is often out of reach of many shorter and disabled people. The windows are also very well insulated and airtight.”The windows have helped achieve an extremely energy-efficient home as well as flooding the upper floor rooms with an abundance of natural light. And the client loves the internal and external finishes.Based in the North of Scotland, Thermopassive Ltd is an architect-owned company which specialises in highly insulated buildings (better than passive house standard) constructed in Structural Insulated Panels (SIPS).

RENOLIT ALKORPLAN scores high on Deltion College! CHALLENGE A sports field on top of the roof. A surprising and exceptional RENOLIT achievement that absolutely draws the attention… Deltion College in Zwolle (NL) really is an exceptional case. This college offers amongst others education courses to prepare for service in the Armed Forces - Navy, Army as well as the Air Forces. No doubt sports are an important part of life on the campus. Then came the inspiration to install an artificial grass sports field on top of the roof of the newly constructed multifunctional building. Space-saving and functional! The choice to specify RENOLIT ALKORPLAN as roofing material was a shrewd decision, as RENOLIT ALKORPLAN offers a solution not only for mechanically fixed roofs but also for ballasted roof systems… SOLUTION The highest rooftop, a steel frame construction, has been installed with a PES-reinforced mechanically fixed RENOLIT ALKORPLAN F roofing membrane. For the lower concrete roof – the sports field to be – a different product was required: RENOLIT ALKORPLAN L! A glass fleece reinforced membrane with an excellent resistance to microorganisms, specifically conceived for ballasted roofs. Before installing the insulation, a bituminous vapour barrier was placed on top of the concrete. Next came a first layer of 70 mm thick aluminium-faced PIR insulation, followed by a second layer of 100 mm thick unfaced polystyrene insulation. To avoid direct contact between the roofing membrane and the PS insulation a glass fleece separation layer was added. Afterwards the RENOLIT ALKORPLAN membrane was loose laid and hot air welded. In accordance with the RENOLIT installation instructions the seams were sealed with RENOLIT ALKORPLAN seam sealer. A little bit of effort for extra security! 

AboutThe Dubai Metro Red Line, at 52.1 km (32.4 mi), is the world’s longest driverless single metro line. The planning of the metro was in response to a rapidly growing population and severe traffic congestion to relieve motor traffic and provide infrastructure for development.Project/doors200 Insulated Roller Shutters, both fire rated and non-fire ratedThe ChallengeThe Hart contract to manufacture over 200 industrial roller shutters to Dubai Metro, one of the most advanced urban rail systems in the world, was secured through the Al-Futtaim Group, who in turn were awarded by Chadwick Technology Group. Hart not only manufactured the doors but provided training to JT Metro JV, Dubai Metro Project.The SolutionManufacture over 200 Insulated Roller Shutters, both fire rated and non-fire rated for the Jebel Ali, Rashidiya and Al Qusais train depots. The shutters are designed to work in very sophisticated and complex systems including depot protection when driver-less trains are in operation.The SuccessThis was Harts largest export order to date and came on the back of large orders for Hart products for Heathrow’s T5 and the international railway terminal at St. Pancras. Once again Hart successfully delivered on a large scale project due to the engineering knowledge and project management experience.The ReviewYou have shown a high level of technical competence and professionalism in dealing firstly with the lengthy approval process, mainly due to the critical importance of the shutters for the automated operation of the Metro system, and secondly with the various site issues that invariably arrive on a project of this scale and fast track nature. Peter W. Mansell, Project Director, Chadwick SEC

Victorian Library receives perimeter sealing system and sash window repair by VentrollaKEY FEATURES: COMMERCIAL, SASH WINDOWS, PUBLIC BUILDING, RENOVATION, VENTROLLA PERIMETER SEALING SYSTEM (VPSS), VICTORIAN.Ventrolla leant a hand with the renovation at Gants Hill Library, Ilford, repairing 12 period timber windows.The work formed part of a major refurbishment project overseen by Ongar-based construction company, Bolt & Heeks Ltd. The project took three months to complete and involved extensive repairs to the building’s original art deco features, including a number of architectural glass roof lights and the parquet flooring.Paula Garsdon, Marketing Manager for Bolt & Heeks, said:“The library dates back to 1938 and it was important to carry out maintenance work in a way that was sympathetic to its origins. We liaised closely with the Borough’s Conservation Officer and carefully selected partners, including Ventrolla, who specialise in dealing with historic buildings.”“The library has been refurbished throughout and this, together with the renovated windows, creates a comfortable and welcoming environment for visitors to enjoy.”Gants Hill is the oldest library in the London Borough of Redbridge. Now reopened to the public, it features new study areas, an additional eight computer terminals, wi-fi access in the reading room and new themed areas for children and teenagers.Ventrolla offers a bespoke renovation service for timber sliding sash and casement windows as well as timber doors. Its unique Perimeter Sealing System significantly improves the window’s performance and energy efficiency.Ventrolla's central office is in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, with regional Ventrolla offices located throughout the UK and Ireland.

Yeoman Shield Anti-Ligature handrail system is being utilized in a newly commissioned dementia unit in South Wales.Ysbyty George Thomas, as part of Cwm Taf Health board’s Valley Life Initiative, has recently undergone a refurbishment to become a health and wellbeing centre for people with cognitive and memory problems.Throughout the design process of the new Dementia Unit, comfort and functionality for clients who would be accessing the area was paramount. Not only were aesthetics taken into consideration with a stunning welsh valleys mural wallpaper installed in between bright colourful “front doors” but safety aspects were of a prime concern.For safeguarding measures Yeoman Shield’s Anti- Ligature Guardian Handrail was chosen, as both a supportive and wall protection rail system, along the main corridor of Ysbyty George Thomas as well as through the Dementia Unit.This Anti-Ligature handrail has a continuous fixing block which runs the full length of the back of the rail eliminating any points that can easily have a length of material or cord wound around it, preventing the possibility of harm to patients. To ensure that the terminating ends of the handrail are not used in a similar way, a tightly fitted wall return is added to totally enclose the ends allowing no gaps between the wall and the rail.Supplied in a dark grey colour as a good contrast to the light wall colour scheme, the Guardian Handrail also dovetailed perfectly into the wall paper design by resembling the top of the depicted drystone walling.“We are exceptionally pleased with the new Dementia Unit and the complementing look, quality and functionality of the Yeoman Shield Anti-Ligature Guardian Handrail.” Commented Jeanne Smith, Directorate Support Manager, Mental Health, Cwm Taf University Health Board

PROJECT BACKGROUND: Work had begun on the airport’s 10-year, £1 billion transformation programme. The airport hoped ’the programme would “transform passenger experiences and help attract yet more of the world’s leading airlines” (The Manchester Airports Group: 2017).REQUIREMENT: Our assignment involved the installation of semi-permanent wheelchair ramps in the temporary lounge. These ramps were designed to offer temporary wheelchair accessibility for both visitors and staff.The lounge plays a pivotal role in the larger transformation initiative, facilitating the redevelopment of the current Terminal 2.END RESULT:Our skilled installers effectively constructed ramps on the airport runway's eastern and southern sides, meeting the scheduled timeline and budget requirements.FEATURES INCLUDED: Infill Handrail - this product prevents users from climbing or falling through gaps.Yellow Tread - this is a safety feature designed to help those with impaired vision identify the nose of the ramp and to help users distinguish any level changes.Trombone Ends - these are added to the ends of a Rapid Ramp to prevent clothes catching.Mesh Platform - the self-draining mesh allows water to pass through rather than collect on the surface.Rest Platform – a rest platform at 5 metres is required to allow the user to pause.1100mm High Rail – these handrails attach to any level sections. Continuous Handrail - this handrail system ensures the users always have support to hold onto.EXTRA FEATURE INCLUDED: Fully Compliant Step Unit – an ideal addition to any ramp installation, providing the access needed for able-bodied users. They can also be stand-alone units, independent of the Rapid Ramp System.

Alumasc Rooflights provided an ideal solution to allowing natural daylight into the building from above. The unique kerb design incorporates both security and waterproofing to create a reliable, safe and secure rooflight, allowing horizontal termination of the waterproof membrane. This makes water penetration virtually impossible. The domed glazing is moulded from Marlon FSX Longlife, premium quality solid polycarbonate, which has an impact resistance up to 200 times that of glass.Technically sophisticated, Harmer AV high-performance aluminium roof outlets are chosen for this project as they guarantee a trouble-free performance and are especially suited to flat roofing applications featuring continuous membranes.Harmer AV roof outlets combine innovative product design with full industry compliance to meet the needs of rainwater drainage in any construction project, with the ability to drain up to 40% more roof area than conventional gravity outlets. Further to this, their lightweight, durable, non-corrodible design means that they will do so for up to 40 years.GX Pressed Aluminium Gutters are robust box section gutters designed for traditional wet jointing on site. They’re especially suited to applications where maximum capacity gutters are required. For the very large drainage area of the campus roof, they were perfect.Designed to fully accommodate thermal movement at every joint, they are lightweight, durable and noncorrodible, and, upholding the environmental prerequisites of this project, they are 100% recyclable.Finally, Heritage Circular Pipes are available in 4 pipe diameters and 3 pipe lengths, together with a complete range of fittings. Can be factory finished to replicate cast iron or with BBA certificated powder coatings in a range of colours.

Berry Systems supplied and installed perimeter and ramp barriers for new multi-storey car park incorporating very thin  concrete decks.A revised design for the new Heathrow Terminal 2 multi-storey car park called for a floor depth of just 150mm comprising a 60mm deep slab with 90mm structural topping. However, and there’s always a however, a traditional rigid safety barrier post needs fixing with 4 bolts each to a depth of 170mm. Obviously these couldn’t be used,so contractors Laing O’Rourke turned to barrier specialists Berry Systems to provide a solution and appropriate perimeter barriers for the 6 decks and the spiral entrance and exit ramps.Over many years Berry Systems have developed a range of flexible spring steel barriers that ‘give’ on impact. This not only reduces damage to both the barrier and an impacting vehicle but crucially reduces the pull out loading on the anchorage by 50% or more. This in turn allows post fixing to be achieved by using only a single bolt embedded to a depth of merely 110mm - a depth achievable into the new slabs.The specification was completed with Berry Beam safety rails to provide a more attractive appearance than the well known “Armco” style. Post extensions provided mountings for a pedestrian handrail at 1100mm high with integral anti-climb mesh where needed.The thin slabs were developed by Bison Manufacturing and are the thinnest precast concrete planks produced to date in the UK. They led to many benefits which considerably reduced the construction programme. It also allowed 6 floors in the usual height of 5, increasing capacity to 1340 spaces. But perimeter protection would have proved problematical without the expertise of Berry Systems.

The Pôle d`Échange Serra is located directly opposite the Luxexpo exhibition and congress centre in Kirchberg, Luxembourg. The area combines a new bus terminal regional buses and city buses, a Park & Ride car park with around 600 parking spaces and two office buildings with a total area of approx. 8,000 m². With the help of charging points for electric cars, a small kiosk and high security measures at the bus station, the project aims to make the switch from car to public transport more attractive. Lindner Group was involved in the development of the office space. The originalcontract covered the floor and partition trades, including the installation of the NORTEC raised floor with fitted carpet and the use of timber and glass partitions. These were complemented by matching door systems and wooden wall claddings. Due to thecustomer's high level of satisfaction with Lindner's services, the order was quickly extended during the interior fit-out work: As a result, Lindner realised impressive Ecophon acoustic baffles for the meeting rooms. In addition, mobile partition walls should now find their way into the 4th and 7th floors. The room height of over 5 m on the 7th floor made the installation challenging: However, thanks to the static design and subsequent execution of a steel construction clad with plaster, the connection of the 4m high partition wall could be carried out without any problems. Another highlight of the interior fit-out are the wall absorbers in the meeting rooms, which also serve as acoustic pictures. The perforated CPL panel was created in cooperation with Topakustik using a new production method. The perforation pattern corresponds to a Morse code, which stands for the Luxembourg national anthem.

Project details Charles de Gaulle International Airport is the second largest airport in Europe after London Heathrow. It is located just outside Paris and handles over 50 million passengers every year. For this reason it can be difficult to find the time for maintenance and repairs. "The airports floors have to withstand constant heavy traffic from passengers, staff and maintenance workers. It was therefore important that their repair and paint products were quick to apply, cure and hard wearing." The work that needed to be carried out was at the entrance to Terminal 3 which is the main public transport hub for Charles de Gaulle. For this reason the work needed to be carried out and finished between the hours of 9.30pm and 6.30am. After this time heavy traffic would resume. Our solution The first job was to clean the concrete floor slabs with Watco Concroff to remove all surface contaminants including oil and fats. Watco Concroff contains no solvents or other chemicals that are dangerous for the environment and penetrates even the thickest deposits of grease. The floor was then primed with Tack Coat, an epoxy resin adhesive primer which guarantees excellent grip on the key surface. As Charles de Gaulle is subjected to such heavy constant traffic a standard mortar would not be sufficient to withstand this, for this reason they choose Watco Concrex® Carbon Fibre. As it is as strong as granite it could be smoothed to a thickness of only 3mm, making the surface both waterproof and slip resistant. The Concrex® was subsequently painted with Safety Coat. Safety Coat is roller applied and contains fine, traction enhancing particles embedded in an epoxy resin coating so this coating was ideal for providing a non slip surface for added security.

Starting from Buenos Aires, the tango argentino conquered the world in the 1920s. Today the Argentinian capital is seen as the Paris of the South and is equally famous for its European flair as for its world-class cultural offering. The country’s colonial past has characterised the architecture and atmosphere of the city right up to the present day. And now, with the opening of the Centro Cultural Kirchner in the heart of Buenos Aires, the metropolis boasts the largest cultural centre in Latin America, which few cultural buildings worldwide can measure up to. Although it is officially named after the former President Néstor Kirchner, the building is commonly known as Ballena Azul (Blue Whale). It owes this name to its interior, whale-formed concert hall wing with an area of 2.200 square meters that forms a central element of B4FS arquitectos’ design. Its visually seamless shell made of Escale metallic fabric from GKD – GEBR. KUFFERATH AG reflects the blue paintwork of the skirting and walls. As the new base of the national symphony orchestra, the shimmering ellipsoid really makes the new landmark of Buenos Aires stand out.With a population of around 11.5 million, more than a quarter of all Argentinians live in the Buenos Aires region. Since the city’s building boom in the wake of the economic upturn of the 1990s, glittering skyscrapers, luxury hotels and exclusive loft apartments have been a common sight in the centre of the bustling metropolis. The old docks have been remodelled as high-class promenades that attract tourists and Argentinians alike to their restaurants, boutiques and bars. The historic city centre is home to the former Correo Central, the grand headquarters of the Argentinian postal service opened in 1928. In 2006 the then President Néstor Kirchner decided to renovate the listed palace and turn it into a superlative cultural centre. Following his death in 2010, his wife and successor as President, Christina Fernández de Kirchner, continued to pursue this idea until the project was completed in 2015. The planners from the Argentinian architectural firm B4FS prevailed in an international architectural competition for the renovation of the tradition-steeped main post office. Their design, a mix of architectural avant-garde and faithful restoration, aimed to create a place where culture could be encountered and experienced over 116 000 square meters in a space that is emblematic and people-oriented in equal measure. Thanks to its location on the Parque del Bicentenario between the historical centre with numerous important buildings and the modernised harbour area of Puerto Madero, the cultural centre became a revived, attractive focal point for the whole area.Breathtaking combination of monument and avant-gardeThe purely symmetrical design – both wings of the building are exactly the same – reflects the strict architectural concept of the planners. A sophisticated network of freely accessible areas on the various floors connects the modern function rooms with the historical parts of the building. The architects from B4FS thus combine painstakingly restored furniture, plasterwork, ironwork and woodwork with brave architectural structures and modern construction materials. Behind the faithfully restored façade, the restored elegance of neoclassicism enters into a fascinating union with the expressiveness of the modern. Even when entering the spacious foyer, almost 5 000 restored letterboxes, tables and chairs really bring the tradition-steeped building to life. The main dome of the palace, the slated roof of which was replaced by 496 window panes with an integrated LED lighting system, plays a key part in this effect. This construction lights up the dome in all colours during the evening and at night. For state visits, the lights show the colours of the guests’ respective national flags. As the city’s first public viewing platform, the crowning glass dome on the ninth floor also allows the Porteños (people of the port), as the people of Buenos Aires call themselves, to enjoy previously unknown views. Moreover, with three restaurants and its possible use as a function room it also offers an arena for culinary pleasure and entertainment. Alluding to the traditional chandeliers in theatres, the architects designed two glass rooms, fixed in place by Virendeel girders, that hover two levels above the stage. With an area of 220 square meters, this gigantic, abstract chandelier is planned as a flexibly usable space for art exhibitions of all kinds.Woven metallic dress for three-dimensional structureThe real attraction of the building, the enormous Blue Whale, can be found beneath the chandelier allegory. Its curved stomach contains a concert hall with space for 1 950 spectators in the stalls and on the balconies, as well as a chamber music hall that accommodates 540 listeners. For its construction, the respective building section was gutted behind the original façade and a large steel cage set up as a supporting structure. The colossal construction has a fascinating effect thanks to its shimmering skin, which seamlessly covers the ellipsoidal body and gently reflects the blue of the surrounding walls and skirting. When choosing a flexible material that would completely encase the idiosyncratic structure, the architects opted for Escale 7 x 1 metallic fabric from GKD – GEBR. KUFFERATH AG. This mesh can be formed in three dimensions and has already been tried and tested in a multitude of famous buildings – including Bertelsmann’s “Planet m” pavilion at Expo 2000 in Hanover or the “Children’s Palace” children’s hospital in Guangzhou – impressively demonstrating its ability to provide completely homogeneous cladding. For the shell of the Whale, the architects chose a customised version of the mesh with 70 millimetre-high stainless steel spirals and aluminium rods. For the cladding, which covers a total area of 5.500 square meters, GKD manufactured over 1 200 individual elements that were fixed to the top and bottom of the shape-giving frame structure using fastening hooks without any visible joints or connections. The international network of the world’s leading manufacturer of architectural metallic fabric proved its worth once again in the realisation of this challenging project: even during the detailed planning phase GKD was able to rely on the expertise of planners from form TL from Radolfzell, who specialise in 3D structures and with whom GKD had already successfully collaborated for the projects in Hanover and Guangzhou. The elements were mounted in the former main post building in Buenos Aires by the local GKD representative office in Argentina, Gutmetal. Following the official opening by the Argentinian President Christina Fernández de Kirchner, Buenos Aires now boasts a new landmark in the form of the Centro Cultural, allowing the past, the present and the future to be experienced under one roof.

It’s time to change the way we finish and protect our interior and exterior wood forever. We are now live on NBS - a platform, which enables architects and specifiers to easily find the products that are perfect for the projects they're working on.Rubio Monocoat provide environmentally friendly interior and exterior oils for wood preservation. With 0% VOCs and the environmental credentials to back it up, we really are the future of wood staining and protection.Who are Rubio Monocoat?Born and based in Belgium, we have expanded over the globe and into the UK and Ireland. In 2000, the company started with the development of an oil, based on a revolutionary technology called molecular bonding, conducted by Dr. George Barrell. This innovative technology has played a huge part in the success of our products.Molecular Bonding is the process of the oil adhering with the fibres of the wood. Within a couple of minutes, the oil has bonded with the upper microns in the wood, meaning no film formation or saturation. The innovative technology means wood is protected in just one single layer.The environmental credentialsRubio Monocoat products contain no VOCs (volatile organic compounds) or harmful chemicals that emit into the air or come into contact with your skin. Three years before the introduction of the first VOC regulations, we decided to set a high bar and go for a 0% VOC label. As a company, we are dedicated to looking for environmentally friendly solutions and strive with the utmost care to provide products with high quality and standards.Rubio Monocoat is the first in the wood treatment sector to get the Eurofins Indoor Air Comfort Gold label. Eurofins Indoor Air Comfort Gold is a sign of our focus on quality and contribution to a healthy indoor environment. The label combines the most relevant emission specifications and requirements in one certification. The Indoor Air Comfort Gold label shows compliance with specifications on VOC emissions set out globally. As well as having these incredible certificates to our name, our products are also food safe and toy friendly. We also have the M1 Emission Class for Building Material certification and are EPD (Environmental Product Declaration) certified, meaning we are transparent with the information surrounding the life-cycle and environmental impact of our products. Why are Rubio Monocoat launching on NBS?At Rubio Monocoat, we know architects could benefit from everything our oils have to offer from staining and protecting cladding, to refreshing interior wood panelling. It’s an industry we have only just touched the surface of, but with our environmental credentials, efficient application process and high quality finish, we know we’d be a great addition to any wooden project.With NBS, architects are able to browse our environmentally friendly interior and exterior products, read case studies from all over the world and locate all our certifications, literature on safety, and technical data sheets. It's also the perfect place to keep up with projects from around the globe to find inspiration. This is a huge step for Rubio Monocoat into a market that we've always highly valued and we look forward to providing architects and specifiers with expert advice on our 0% VOC products. Are you interested in a workshop near you?We’re looking to hold workshops for architects and specifiers who want to learn everything about what Rubio Monocoat can offer them and their projects. These will involve demos and the chance to get hands-on. If you’re interested, please register here, making sure to state the town you’d like us to come to: https://form.jotform.com/221983606853363You can contact our Business Development Manager Derek at consult@rubiomonocoat.com for more information or a demonstration on our products, and see us live on NBS now: https://nbs.fyi/gwuq8i

Twin Rundum Original ‘round the corner’ side sliding doors have been manufactured and installed by bespoke garage door specialist Rundum Meir UK as part of the North Quay development in Hayle, Cornwall.Their vision for North Quay is to transform a former industrial area into an exciting new coastal quarter for people to live, work, shop, eat, stay and enjoy the stunning waterside location. Key to this is high quality design by which has already been independently recognised through the project winning in the 2020 Housing Design Awards.Within the first phase of the transformational project, which includes around 140 dwellings and public realm development by FCBStudios, as well as office space and waterside commercial buildings, are two residential units with garages. Rundum Meir was approached to explore the potential for twin bespoke doors with radiused corners at their adjacent edge which would make a statement feature of the garage doors. This design was perfectly suited to the Rundum Original, which slides along a track as it opens sideways before turning a corner to run along an inner side wall of the garage. Equally important, however, was the ability to manufacture the garage door in materials that would enable aesthetic goals to be achieved whilst being suitable for the harsh coastal conditions, dominated by an aggressive saline atmosphere.Rundum Meir was able to use Accoya for the timber slats that make up each of the doors. Accoya is ideal for conditions of this kind, and for meeting the project’s sustainability aims, given its superior durability and FSC accreditation.Marine grade stainless steel was used to create the U-channels which guide the Rundum Original as it slides, along with the PPC tracks and binding. This will ensure the key mechanical elements of the two doors have maximum resistance to corrosion for a long design life.In line with the high specification of all the dwellings under construction, the Rundum Meir garage doors are also automated. A door-mounted motor is activated via a remote control device and it is HomeLink compatible for safe and secure operation from inside a vehicle.

On the roof at the famous Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Woolwich, London; is a very considerable amount of equipment for services such as air-conditioning, electricity, and gas. Specialist contractor Mid Kent Roofing were approached and asked by Vinci Facilities to provide a walkway solution to this need, and the DukMat walkway system was the only option. Supplying more than two kilometres of the walkway system, Fixfast worked closely with Mid Kent Roofing to provide the solution - easy to install and neatly packaged, the DukMat system is second to none."Deliveries were perfect and times adhered to which stopped any traffic flow problems with emergency services also using the same access points as the deliveries"Stave Cayford - Mid Kent Roofing