"aluminium cladding"

Fire Retardant aluminium cladding that looks like real timber. This system of real timber that wraps aluminium cladding has been around for 30 years; its not a new phenomenon, in some practices, it’s the norm.Exceptional Architecture with contrasting aluminium wood cladding against a striking white stucco facade. Incredible detailing and accurate installation has made this private residence an iconic statement. Real timber veneer over aluminium results in a contemporary timber cladding, its not an effect, its not plastic… its timber.Aluminium cladding that looks like real timber.Set over three floors and a basement, beautiful landscaped surrounds and many balcony terraces make this dwelling the envy of other property owners. The cladding by Technowood ® has been used to good effect for the wall cladding, soffit board arrangement and also the fascias. This system has many options for start and stop beads with alternatives for reveals and corner detail. The design of these projects is only limited by the designer.Pergola design and Brise Soleilby Technowood®As Technowood have been manufacturing since the 1980’s they are well versed in many different profiles and systems in aluminium covered in real wood. Pergolas that span with a clear run up to 12.5 metres, louvres and Brise Soleil that match. We can create a complete system in timber that looks the same, made at the same time by the same hands… the design can also incorporate powder coated or anodized aluminium elements; supplied at the same time. These are also made in the same manufacturing process.Cladding illumination Up lighting, down lighting or washing warm white illumination across the facade of cladding looks beautiful. Further, this offers a welcome from the building during the darker hours, makes your home more inviting, it also looks stylish. It’s a simple effect to achieve and doesn’t cost a lot in comparison to other illuminated elements of the project.Technowood aluminium timber claddingThe simple system is an inclusive platform of cladding. It starts with a simple L shape bracket, a long length of supporting section T shape (like a timber batten); the cladding directly fixes to it. Think rain screen, when you are designing and you won’t go far wrong. Technowood has been here for 30 years and it’s here to stay. Certified FR A2, FSC and certified for Environmental Product Declaration, its also warranted for 20 years.

Aluminium and real timber claddingThe best aluminium cladding for your private home, extension, renovation is Technowood ® cladding. It is faster than most cladding systems to install and has been available for almost 30 years. Tried, tested, analyzed and put through its paces in some of the toughest weather locations Technowood has proved itself a worthy product.How does Timber cladding weatherThere are many solid timbers used as conventional cladding, the main complaint being that the weathering is inconsistent. The colours fade at different rates which may look unsightly.UV light damages wood because it breaks down the wood’s lignin. Lignin is a component of wood that strengthens the cell walls and holds the fibres together. This process is called photo-oxidation.Technowood doesn’t suffer in the same way. This is because the manufacturing process of the veneer and the resins used to replace the lignin; thus negating the short comings of normal timber.You can’t really stop natural timber from weathering. However, with Technowood you can be assured of consistency.How to avoid water staining on claddingAvoiding water stains on timber cladding is something of a myth. Unless you maintain your cladding almost weekly there will always be indications of water staining. It is a product exposed to the elements and as such will be at least damp for most of the year; therefore will show water staining.Completed in 2012 this project is in Samsun, turkey. Receives full exposure from the sun and heavy rain (don’t think it doesn’t rain in Turkey as it does, it snows too). This project called for Technowood because it would keep the natural colour of the timber for much longer compared to normal timber cladding.Can normal timber cladding be warrantied?Under normal circumstances, you can’t warranty normal timber; unless it has gone through pressure treating or surface treatment that has such a warranty. These warranties are not ambiguous so long as the treatment process is followed to the letter of instruction.“The warranty for Technowood products is 20 years”.Salt Spray TestingSalt spray testing, a practice of checking the corrosion resistance of the surface of materials that have a coating. During salt spray testing, an accelerated corrosive attack is produced in order to measure the performance. This demonstrates how well the coating protects the metal. “Salt spray test has been done to our veneered material by IFT Rosenheim Germany and its succeeded.” Technowood aluminium and timber veneer claddingThe products available from Technowood are in standard width dimensions from 100mm, 150mm and 200mm. They look like real wood because it’s a real wood veneer. The product has very little to no maintenance; It also carries Fire Rating A2. This is perfect to future proof your propertyWe have a showroom in Sky House Design centre where you may visit for free samples, brochures and consultation.

Aluminium-Clad timber flush casement windows and doors from the Contemporary collection by Lomax + Wood have been specified for a modern, new-build, private development just minutes from the cosmopolitan city centre of Oxford.

Aluminium is an established and well used metal in Architecture. In the development of the Eastern Gateway apartments, Accord Indesign have been courageous in combining colour with shape and form creating a multi-layered, multi-coloured and highly visual façade. The variety of cladding solutions is successful breaking up the façade as well as providing a strong commercial versus residential statement. Interlocking Shingles breaking up the central core and interlocking reveal panels that create a linear regimentation in close keeping the traditional brick-built buildings along the High Street. Blended colours deliver a high level of interest.

Project: Birmingham Energy Innovation CentreDate: 2020 Background:·        APL were engaged to provide a non-combustible construction solution to meet challenging acoustic and thermal performance requirements for the roof and walls·        APL were able to meet the clients requirement for matching solid and perforated profiles·        APL provided all structural, thermal and acoustic calculations Systems:·        2,000m² of APL built-up pre-coated aluminium roof system, using the sinusoidal AP18HR and trapezoidal AP31/1000RR profiles·        1,300m² of APL built-up aluminium wall system, using the sinusoidal AP18HR and AP45HR profiles with both pre-coat and PPC finishes·        800m² of APL perforated aluminium wall system, using the AP45HR-Airwall™ profile with a PPC coating·        Bespoke featured fins in aluminium with an anodised-look PPC coating·        APL Tritherm™ GALV sub-framing ·        All flashings, fixings and accessories  Building Location:·        Birmingham

Project: Faraday Business ParkDate: 2021 Background:·        APL were engaged with the architect early in the project design and specification process, providing specification and system support through the tender process·        APL’s strong design and engineering capability ensured that the bespoke window pods designed by the architect were incorporated in early details·        Due to APL’s strong supply-chain relationship, all material was able to be procured and delivered on time to meet the projects programme·        APL provided all thermal and structural calculations Systems:·        10,000m² of APL built-up roof system with stucco-embossed mill-finished aluminium trapezoidal AP31/1000RR profile, along with PV support system·        8,000m² of APL built-up wall system with steel sinusoidal AP45HR in RAL 9006 and RAL 7012 as the external profile·        Bespoke window pods fabricated in 3mm aluminium with a Class 2 PPC coating·        APL Tritherm™ GALV sub-framing·        All rainwater goods including gutters and downpipes·        All fixings and accessories  Building Location:·        Fareham

Project: Leeds College of BuildingDate: 2018 Background:·        APL were involved from an early stage with the architects, providing design and costing advice throughout the tendering process, along with significant design support as the project progressed·        APL’s technical expertise and close relationships with its supply chain ensured that solutions were provided to some very complex colour requirements Systems:·        1,400m² of half-round profile AP50HR in aluminium with an anodised-look PPC finish ·        850m² of sinusoidal profile AP18HR in aluminium with an anodised-look PPC finish ·        APL Tritherm™ GALV support system onto SFS·        LB4 live louvre system·        All fixings and accessories  Building Location:·        Leeds

Stone Cladding: Moca Crème Limestone - natural stone rainscreen cladding on this Berkeley Homes Development. ARCHITECT: Scott Brownrigg MAIN CONTRACTOR: Berkeley Homes INSTALLER: Architectural Aluminium PRODUCT: AlterStone Moca Crème Medium Grain Limestone CLADDING AREA: 900m2 START ON SITE: February 2016

CUPA PIZARRAS has been heavily involved in the development of a new self-build residential property in North West London. The manufacturer was initially approached due to its range of natural slate façade designs, with its CUPACLAD 201 Vanguard system eventually specified to create an impressive and striking façade. Located in Dollis Hill, the property is situated next to a housing estate and opposite an existing slate clad facade, while views to the rear give the illusion of a peaceful woodland setting. The designers sought to create a family home with a high-end exterior finish that felt like an escape from London, while also working well with the surrounding structures. Early on, natural slate was identified as a material that could help to create an attractive contemporary façade around the rear, sides and the upper elevation of the front of the property. It was also crucial that the façade would act as a rainscreen cladding system so the project team approached CUPA PIZARRAS about its CUPACLAD natural slate rainscreen cladding. The project team visited Taylor Maxwell’s London Bridge showroom – the exclusive distributor of CUPACLAD in the UK - to discuss options with the Taylor Maxwell and CUPA PIZARRAS teams as well as view a CUPACLAD sample wall. This session helped to establish that the CUPACLAD 201 Vanguard system was the ideal solution. A fully BBA approved system, CUPACLAD 201 Vanguard is 100% non-combustible and offers a lifespan of over 100 years. Following the initial consultation, CUPA PIZARRAS worked closely with the project team, including carrying out a number of site visits. The use of CUPACLAD 201 Vanguard was kept in mind throughout the design process, with the dimensions of the slate determining the placement of windows, vents and corners. This meant that when it came to construction, it was a simple installation process with minimal wastage and resulting in a clean finish. The CUPACLAD 201 Vanguard system is constructed from horizontal aluminium profiles, mechanically fastened to an aluminium sub frame support. Once fixed in place, the rows of natural slate are clipped on, and in the case of the Dollis Hill property, using visible fixings to create an attractive pinstripe effect. “The product looks fantastic in-situ on this project,” commented Tom Ward, Cladding Product Advisor at Taylor Maxwell. “The dark grey slate rainscreen cladding provides a striking colour contrast with the refurbished light brown timber fencing and complements the property’s black aluminium windows and glazing.” “Natural slate is a great cladding product. Not only is it easy to install, but, as it’s natural, you don’t have to handle cost sheets for working with a dangerous material,” commented Ronan Glynn, developer at Talina Builders. “We carry out a lot of demolition and see a lot of old building products go to waste; so it’s also reassuring that slate offers such longevity and when it might eventually be sent to landfill, you know it will not harm the environment.” David Cooke, Business Development Manager at CUPA PIZARRAS concluded: “On a project like this we can be involved as much, or as little, as the project team demands. We can offer support from conception to completion and we always encourage architects and contractors to get in touch as early as possible, so like in the case of Dollis Hill, we can work closely to ensure a meticulous finish.” For more information about CUPA PIZARRAS range of products, including its CUPACLAD rainscreen cladding systems, please visit: https://www.cupapizarras.com/uk/rainscreen-cladding/

Location: Port Street, Northern Quarter Manchester M1 2EGProject Type: Housing (Private Rental Sector) Development Cost: £27m Products: Aluminium Soffit Cladding to Recessed Balconies, Weatherstruck Aluminium Wall Copings Finish: Interpon D1036 RAL 1036 Matt Pearl Gold Fire rating: A2 s1, d0 (Classification Reaction to Fire EN BS 13501-1:2018). Client: Mulbury City Architect: Tim Groome Architects Main Contractor: Bardsley Construction Ltd Facades Contractor: Longworth Building Services Ltd Sub Contractor: Stafford Rainwater Systems Ltd

Project: The Renaissance Date: 2022 Background:·        APL’s strong supply-chain relationships enabled the correct specification of aluminium and paint coating for a marine environment to be secured at a time of severe material shortages·        APL’s design team worked closely with the installer, helping to detail the challenging interfaces between different cladding types·        APL provided all structural calculations Systems:·        1,000m² of APL SnapLoc™ traditional standing seam system on marine-grade aluminium with a PvF2 coating in RAL 9002 and RAL 9006·        APL Tritherm™ GALV sub-framing to SFS and concrete substructure for APL SnapLoc™ areas·        100m² of APL Custom Bespoke Newton-range castellated profile in aluminium·        PPC aluminium infill panels and copings·        Complex bespoke feature flashings in PPC aluminium ·        All flashings, fixings and accessories  Building Location:·        Hove

The St Michael & All Angels church Birkenhead with a Natural Mill finish Aluminium designed by Richard O’Mahony of the F.X. Velarde Partnership opening in September 1965. Awarded RIBA Bronze Medal in 1967. Aluminium has changed very little over the decades remaining an established metal of choice. Extremely lightweight with a strength and durability liked by installers. The material structure makes it ideal for vertical cladding where a flat aspect is required. Bright Aluminium surfaces will adopt a Patina in favour of a matt grey tone.

One of the most talked about subjects in timber cladding are the Vertical Fins.Solid timber or even huge steel forms are cumbersome, heavy and expensive. They often require specialist structural fixings and tame consuming to install.Technowood fins have been created to transform this arena. Simple in design, ultra-light weight and easy to install, saving on materials and labour for large scale commercial projects. In the main they are fabricated in Aluminium and if the spans are excessive they can be manufactured in GRP. All Technowood finishes are real timber…Vertical Fins, which uses Technowood products in facade design, attracts attention with its impressive architecture.There are multiple options for cladding and facade design within the world of Technowood. Interspersed vertical forms with spaces between or even panels of cladding… all manufactured under one roof and delivered to site at the same time, same batch, same material, same colour, same texture all with the same impressive result.Technwood have a showroom in Sky House Design Centre in Amersham, quick access from the Metro line. They also offer CPD presentation during the week direct to your practice… samples and product brochures all also available. Architect: Gokhan Aksoy Architects in collaboration with AS ArchitectsLocation:Private residenceProductTechnowood Fins, Cladding and PanelingCompletion:2016

Aluminium cladding that looks like real timber, quite simply put, but it is actually real timber. Chosen for its natural aesthetic and ultimate fire resistance, Technowood has rapidly become a “go-to” cladding facade for Architects and Designers.Considered as a sheltered social project, the two towers are located on a raised outdoor podium on a scale that doesn’t hide its presence. The well-developed landscaping area, which also serves as a central garden area, also includes a shopping centre with 150 stores and a cinema. It has a gallery space aligned with transparent oriental pools. These transparent pools, which form the centre of Next Level, illuminate the shopping centre with the sunlight breaking through the water, giving its guests a relaxing ambience. The 7500 sq. m of landscaping is a recipe for complete social togetherness. The public and private wellbeing have been transformed into an urban area. This also allows a diverse culture, entertainment, work and socialisation.This newly built-up area has also become a new living space for people adopting a modern lifestyle, where business and social life come together. Furthermore, Next Level is designed as a cutting edge mixed-use project of this area, it reflects the development of the region and this contemporary way of life has been well accepted by its new occupants.The mixed materials manufactured by Technowood is a testimony to the company. As well as its ability to work with the demands of the Architect. By having the expertise to deliver complex shaped materials in the same palette, colour and texture.Technowood is an FSC certified product; it uses only 2% of timber when compared to solid timber facades. It uses even less when compared to solid timber structures.Credits and Further informationArchitect: Brigitte Weber ArchitectsLocation: Ankara, TurkeyProject: Commercial, residential and shopping centreMaterials: Technowood CladdingCompletion: 2013

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.

Project: Broxbourne Business CentreDate: 2022 Background:·        APL were engaged with the architect early in the project design and specification process·        APL worked closely with the architect and powder-coating manufacturers to select the correct colour shade for the perforated areas·        APL’s design team assisted with detailing the challenging interfaces between different cladding types·        APL provided all structural calculations Systems:·        550m² of APL SnapLoc™ traditional standing seam system in steel with a RAL 7016 PUF coating ·        700m² of APL AP18HR-Airwall™ perforated sinusoidal profile with an APL Oxide3 PPC coating ·        APL Tritherm™ GALV sub-framing to SFS substructure for APL SnapLoc™ areas·        APL AluE™ Tritherm aluminium sub-framing for AP18HR-Airwall™ areas·        All flashings, fixings and accessories  Building Location:·        Broxbourne

As part of the BBC DIY SOS build to support the Grenfell community, Structura UK is proud to announce it has helped to realise two ambitious projects to support the survivors of the Grenfell disaster. This includes a brand new Community Centre as well as a replacement for the Dale Youth Amateur Boxing Club which was previously located on the first floor of Grenfell Tower and destroyed in the blaze.Over 200 square metres of Kalwall® translucent cladding has been used along the whole elevation of the new Boxing Club using the newly adapted THERM+ curtain walling system from RAICO.This was the first project realised using the new system and has worked remarkably well. The ability to conceal the fixings and screws coupled with the mill-finished aluminium framing has created a wonderfully smooth and dramatic façade.RAICO President, Dr Stefan Lackner commented, “RAICO has a long standing reputation for innovation and partnerships with customers and associated product suppliers. Working with Structura and Kalwall to develop a solution to integrate windows and glazing into a Kalwall screen has created many potential opportunities. We are particularly pleased that the first live project for our new partnership was for this deserving cause.”

TASIGO Hotels group have used Technowood, to the extreme, in the centre of woodlands; an area of environmental importance and also one where special attention to existing tree positions was an insistence of the permission for this build.The real timber balustrade, handrails, cladding and partitions are all part of the package supplied by Technowood. The consistency, colour and texture of real timber were matched quite easily because it was real timber. With a 2mm thickness of FSC certified timber wrapped over extruded aluminium and sealed with an A2 FR certified chemical… unmatched in other products anywhere in the world.TASIGO Hotels & resorts have, at its centre, a beautiful Spa and Wellness Center surrounded by luxury hotel accommodation. This total structure is presented across a total area of 41 thousand square meters; furthermore, the facility has been designed as a modern sculpture which has adopted the traditions of Architecture and historical consideration of the region.The 3,500 m2 Spa and Wellness Centre, was planned in-ground. This would make full use of the geothermal characteristic of the land; enables natural daylight penetration through the domes placed on top of the terrace.The hotel, with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, consists of 164 rooms. The facility also includes a 1.400 m2 convention area and multifunctional halls, as well as a 975 m2 pillar-free ballroom, swimming pools, children’s club, bar & restaurants and indoor & outdoor parking areas.Technowood products are innovative and specified around the world because of their adaptability, quality and fire rating of Euroclass A2.Come and see us or we can visit youIf you’d like to see Technowood up close we have a showroom in Amersham at The Sky House Design Centre. We are also more than happy to send our Technical Director to come and give you a CPD. They will bring a full set of samples for you to keep too.

Project: Supply and installation of 7000 m2  of internal and external GRC cladding panels using hidden fixings system at three newly build metro stations.Location:  Warsaw, PolandClient: Astaldi S.p.A.Materials used:  PLAIN, ENGRAVED and GAP GRC large format concrete panels with ‘Helping Hand’ invisible aluminium bracket system. Panels were in Rough Mist and Anthracite finish.

Project type: Commercial Location: Bremont Watches Headquarters, Sheephouse Farm, Oxfordshire, RG9 4JF Product: Highline Gutter Finish: Syntha Pulvin RAL 9006 Matt White Aluminium Product: Meridian Coping System Finish: Syntha Pulvin RAL 9006 Matt White Aluminium Product: Faceted Verge Raking Soffit Finish: Syntha Pulvin RAL 9006 Matt White Aluminium Fire Rating: A2 s1, d0 Non-combustible (Reaction to Fire EN BS 13501-1:2018) Client: Bremont Watches Architect: Spratley & Partners Contractor: A&H Construction Sub Contractor: Vertec Roofing & Cladding Ltd

Project type: Leisure Centre Location: Sidwell’s Leisure Centre, Paris Street, Exeter, EX1 2JX Project Cost: £44m Product: Complete Eaves System Including: Fascia Soffit (Facetted and Tapered), Hidden Aluminium Gutter Finish: United Anodisers Anodised Aluminium: Anolok Bronze 541 Fire Rating: A1 – Non-combustible Support method: Dales Monocoque Support System Architect: Space & Place Architects  Architect: Gale & Snowden Architects Contractor: Kier Western Ltd Sub Contractor: Massey Cladding Solutions Ltd

Rainscreen cladding specialists Metalline are the first to use an innovative stone textured finish on their range of CWCT certified Unity rainscreen cladding panels. The finish, which to the naked eye looks like stone is a perfect substitute for natural stone cladding panels and offers a range of cost saving benefits. The use of aluminum also offers the architect more design options. Metalline, who have worked closely with contractors Alumet on a number of capital projects in London presented their new finish to the design team and outlined the huge cost savings that could be achieved by specifying their aluminium Unity rainscreen panel with the new stone textured PPC applied. The external façade when completed will feature over 3000 panels, both flat and curved in stone white and include fittings and bracketry for a unitized system. This ability to mirror a natural finish on aluminium Unity rainscreen panels has led to a number of interesting approaches from developers looking to enhance the external envelope of their project. Metalline’s expertise in fascia finishes extends beyond Polyester Powder Coating applications. Taking advantage of the latest research and development into anodised finishes has seen Metalline engaged by a number of leading architects and contractors to advise and supply fabricated aluminium with an anodised finish whose colour is guaranteed for the life cycle of a building. Available in a full range of Anolok anodising finishes, specifiers are now able to enhance the aesthetic look and feel of a building’s façade in a choice of colours including Natural Silver, Bronzes from light to dark, Regency Gold 1 & 2, Black and specialist Anolok anodising II Blue-Grey and Stone-Grey finishes. The Metalline range of Unity rainscreen panels and Ultima insulated panels are made from solid aluminium and use an A1 rated non – combustible insulation core on their insulated panels to help meet the latest requirements in fire safety.

Worcester has invested in a new £10m swimming pool as part of the city’s Perdiswell Leisure Centre refurbishment. RCM supplied the colourful Trespa® Meteon® cladding panels to the project, which were used on the outside of the pool area and entrance. RCM also supplied the colour-matched fixings and associated trims and the aluminium support frame system to this worthy project.

Forming part of a £400m Birmingham City Centre scheme the new 17 storey, 250 bedroom Holiday Inn Express forms part of the 2.3m square foot Arena Central mixed-use development. RCM supplied approx. 5,000m2 of ACM rainscreen cladding from Vitrabond, Trespa Meteon panels, the aluminium facade support framing system and fixings to this newly built hotel.

News that The Curve in Slough has won an LABC award in the “Best Public Building” category, has delighted Metalline who supplied a wide range of architectural aluminium fabrications on the project. At the heart of a £450m regeneration scheme, The Curve is Sloughʼs premier cultural centre. Now complete, it houses a new library, café, museum, performance venue and learning rooms. The iconic project features a bespoke cladding system curved on plan and in section. The complex geometry involved to the North, East and West elevations meant that Metalline were involved from an early stage with contractors Colorminium, who took responsibility for the detailed design and delivery of the full building envelope. Once Colorminium had specified their requirements for the project to Metalline, the architectural aluminium was supplied promptly and to the exact measurements and detailing. The bespoke cladding system features a range of Metallineʼs curved and straight fascia panels, Secret Fix soffits and curved Secret Fix hook on Unity rainscreen panels complete with welded studs to the rear and curved carrier system. All panels and soffits were finished in a polyester powder coated RAL 9006 metallic silver finish to give the building a modern and high quality appeal. Metallineʼs aluminium rainscreen cladding now has CWCT certification which has provided architects and specifiers with limitless possibilities for their projects enabling them to use unique and elegant rainscreen designs.

Fircroft House in Essex has been completely transformed from a tired 1980s detached property into a distinctive home with a contemporary edge.Renovated throughout, Fircroft House features a new ground floor extension, pale grey timber-effect external cladding (replacing a brick and render façade), and brand new Rationel alu-clad windows and doors. In fact, sixteen new windows are installed across the property, including opening and fixed units, two large sliding patio doors, and a solid, grooved front door flanked by glazed side lights and set beneath an arched portico. When planning the refurbishment of Fircroft House, window and door replacement was a project priority, as the original property had single glazed, leaded, all-timber windows which made the interior very dark and were thermally inefficient. All-aluminium glazing was initially considered because the homeowners wanted an affordable, durable and contemporary frame design which looked more attractive than uPVC. They changed their mind, however, when they saw Rationel AURAPLUS alu-clad windows installed at a friend’s home: ‘The idea of a frame which combined timber and aluminium was very appealing,’ they say. ‘It offered the best of both worlds with hardwearing aluminium outside and thanks to the wood, a more tactile finish to the inner frames, so we decided to find out more.’ The homeowners are delighted with their new windows and doors and would happily recommend Rationel: ‘We are very impressed with the package offered by Rationel,’ they say. ‘The windows and doors are all high quality, low maintenance and look great, and the service we received from okoHaus was amazing from start to finish.’

The new office development for the New Gorbals Housing Association in Glasgow features a variety of aluminium fenestration solutions. Together these have helped create a light and airy workspace and an impressive centrepiece for the wider regeneration of the area.Located on Crown Street, the new commercial office building is complemented by a new civic piazza and has been designed by Page & Park Architects. Flexibility and adaptability were key focuses for the overall design, with the incorporation of daylighting and natural ventilation strategies to boost wellbeing, and large glazed facades to better connect the building with the local community.The welcoming main entrance has been created using Senior’s slimline and thermally-enhanced SF52 aluminium curtain wall system and SPW501 aluminium commercial doors. The fenestration package also includes Senior’s SPW600e aluminium windows which were used throughout. The ground floor glazing has been recessed to provide privacy to the internal work spaces whilst complementing the overall ‘open’ design of the scheme. In contrast, the first-floor glazing protrudes slightly to maximise views of the surrounding city. Senior’s products were fabricated and installed by Scottech for main contractor CCG.The office environment includes both large areas for group work and smaller, more private booths and is centred around a large timber-clad atrium. The use of internal and external glazed partitions and windows helps balance the space, providing links with both the other areas of the building and the outside. The fenestration package has also been designed to provide those using the building with multiple aspect views and daylighting, whilst avoiding overheating and glare from the summer sun. To further complement the overall façade design which features dark grey zinc cladding, and to boost the durability of the aluminium frames, the windows, doors and curtain wall systems were powder coated.

DOWNER, OFFERS A HELPING HAND FOR ANS GLOBAL MOXY HOTELOUR ORIGINAL ALUMINIUM RAINSCREEN FRAMING, DOWNER, OFFERS A HELPING HAND FOR ANS GLOBALWe’re really pleased to share this latest Downer framing projects, courtesy of our client ANS Global.Working in conjunction with Jehu Group, ANS Global have been pivotal in developing this £8.65m boutique hotel in Bristol’s City Centre. They were instructed to create three separate living walls, two on the main brick façade, and one under a covered walkway. As you can see in the images.Hidden beneath this impressive living wall facade, is Architectural Panel Solutions' aluminium rainscreen sub-structure framing system Downer – the original helping hand rainscreen framing system. Specifically, our DCS031 helping hand brackets and rails.IN THE WORDS OF ANS GLOBAL:6,240 plants now thrivingOver the three living walls, 6,240 plants are now thriving and growing, bringing benefits for the local environment and the community. In fact, having something as unique and eye-catching as plants on or around your property has in some studies shown to increase real estate values by up to 20%.MORE ABOUT OUR DOWNER THE ORIGINAL HELPING HAND ALUMINIUM CLADDING FRAMINGMade in Britain – our Downer aluminium rainscreen framing is the original helping hand framing system which continues to be created here in our Hastings factory, since 1987.Downer is a versatile ‘off-the-shelf’ rainscreen cladding support for most facades.Downer extrusions are manufactured from grade 6000 structural and recyclable aluminiumOur Downer solutions cover all types of fixing applicationsEngineered to perform: energy efficiency, versatility, strength, durability, protectionBBA approved for complete assurance – tested to the extremeCutting service availableExtensive UK stocks with items dispatched in 2-3 daysFixings specified for each system and stocked (EJOT)Technical know-how underpins our Downer framing salesValue engineered – If you need specific support for your facade framing calculations, thermal calculations, or for advice on how best to maximise your framing solution the APS team is on-hand to help.

Project: The Hamptons, GillinghamDate: April 2020 to February 2021 Background:·        The building was identified as having combustible cladding and was required to be re-clad with an A1 non-combustible system·        APL acted as the principal designer of the replacement cladding system, material supplier and fabricator, including all sub-grid, Slimwall™ Weatherboard & aluminium panels and fixings/accessories Systems:·        2,500m² of APL Slimwall™ CPS/SSF external rainscreen panels, including curved areas, with a 3-layer PvF2 coating in a bespoke colour to match the previous cladding·        500m² of APL Slimwall™ Weatherboard to replace combustible timber cladding·        Curved cappings with Class 2 PPC coating·        APL AluE Tritherm™ aluminium sub-framing, extrusions and fixings Building Location:·        Gillingham, ME

OVER 3000SQM OF SOTECH OPTIMA IPC RAINSCREEN CLADDING HAS BEEN USED IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE BOURNEMOUTH GATEWAY BUILDING (BGB).Working closely with anodising partner United Anodisers, the Optima Interlocking Plank finished in anodised Anolok regency gold, natural and Anolok bronze, the rainscreen cladding forms a prominent part of the building, situated on the St Paul’s site – next to the St Paul’s roundabout on the Wessex Way; a key location on the main route into Bournemouth.Aluminium is one of the most durable and versatile of metals, anodising enhances aluminium and its environmental virtues. It is exceptionally recyclable, requires minimal maintenance and has proven lifetime performance. Due to the nature of the anodising process and the tight quality controls on both the aluminium and the surface treatment, anodising has a homogeneous (matching & consistent) appearance. Anodising enhances the natural qualities of aluminium further; it permits a strongly contemporary finish with incomparable corrosion and abrasion resistance.At five to seven stories high, the building provides a strong visual gateway to the Lansdowne Campus and a landmark entrance to the town.The building, which accommodates the institute’s Faculty of Health & Social Sciences (HSS) delivers a unified base for the faculty education, research and office activities and provides 10,000 square metres of space for the Faculty and the wider BU population.The BGB is designed to be environmentally-friendly with a number of carbon-reduction measures. The full team behind the build is committed to an ‘excellent’ rating for the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology (BREEAM) certification.The building opened officially in October 2020, but access is currently limited to staff and Postgraduate Research (PGR) students while they familiarise themselves with the building.Special thanks to TAC Projects for choosing Sotech to deliver on this project, which was overseen by Kier Construction with architectural firm Atkins.

In partnership with leading global investment firm KKR, Regal London recently completed a strategic new site at 340a Clapham Road, SW9, situated between Stockwell and Clapham North. Previously a brownfield site (tool hire depot), the site has been completely transformed into a vibrant mixed use, residential-led development, totalling 94,740 sq ft and will deliver 62 one, two and three-bedroom apartments spread over nine floors. The ground and lower ground floors also comprise approximately 18,250 ft2 of flexible commercial space. Planning permission was granted in June 2017 following a collaborative working relationship with the London Borough of Lambeth and the project reached its completion in 2021.With a high quality and contemporary design, both of which are hallmarks of Regal London schemes, the development perfectly complements the surrounding streetscape of new build and period properties, featuring a subtle interplay of façade materials including brick, aluminium and glass installed by Buildtherm Services. Ideally located for commuters, an established network of transport links is within easy reach of the development, with Stockwell Underground Station just 0.2miles away, as well as Clapham North Underground Station and Clapham High Street Overground Station both within a short walk. A thriving social and leisure scene is also nearby, led by the bars, pubs, restaurants and cafes, as well as a selection of amenities, in situ along the lively Clapham High Street and its surrounds.The undeniable kerb-appeal of this luxury residential development is testament to the design capabilities of the modern methods of construction used throughout the build and the quality of workmanship involved. The architect’s ambitious concept design called for a modern and sleek interpretation of the surrounding vernacular to satisfy planning requirements. The vision is clearly represented by the multiple challenging interfaces; including large expanses of glazing, cantilevered balconies and rooftop garden spaces which represented an important consideration within the design of the main structure and supporting steel frame systems. In order to comply with the latest building regulations for residential buildings over 18m in height, topping out at 9 storeys, Regal London also needed to ensure that all façade materials met with the requirement for non-combustibility, with a minimum EN13501-1 rating of A2, including the balconies.Over 3000m2 of A1 rated NaturAL-X brick cladding has been installed across several new elevations, with the architect having selected 3 different brick finishes to satisfy planning requirements, specifying subtle and muted tones including a textured dark, smooth off-white, and glazed white. As well as varying the colours and textures of the brick cladding, hundreds of bespoke cut and bonded return bricks were manufactured to suit the angular interfaces at balcony levels. The project design also called for elements of flexibly orientated brick coursing, with soldier courses, stack bonded and soffit return sections featuring at ground level and interspersed within the columns and beams stretching across the front elevation. The adaptability of this BBA certified innovative brick cladding system allows for modern interpretations of brickwork design to be easily integrated using standard components, without any requirement for additional structural support and with the added reassurance of all relevant system testing.Set back from the main brick façade, the top two floors featuring luxurious penthouse apartments are clad in VariAL-CF2 Concealed-fix 3mm aluminium cassettes, with a powder coated finish produced to Qualicoat standards. This CWCT tested, A2 rated rainscreen system is designed to accommodate large format vertically orientated modules, as well as complex details such as soffits, verges and goalpost details; making it eminently suitable for the balcony fascia areas too. Concealed fixings located in the panel joints are colour coated to match the panels, delivering an uninterrupted aesthetic. With long-term maintenance in mind, VariAL-CF2 allows for individual panels to be demounted, removed and replaced if required, without causing any detriment to the surrounding areas.

The Shield is a £18.4m development located on the east side of Newcastle city centre - a regeneration area previously occupied by light industrial buildings, a brick-build office and a warehouse. Comprising of three blocks of student accomodation extending seven storeys at Stoddard Street to the east, this scheme steps down to four storeys at Clarence Street to the west.This building features a refined palette of materials including brick, aluminium and bronze coloured cladding in a range of natural colours to animate the facade. Visible aluminium frame windows punctuate the mass of three blocks and provide a significant aesthetic impact. Installed in a vertical configuration to contrast with the cladding's horizontal lines, side-hung, open-out windows were mostly used with some top-hung, open-out vents - all fitted with exclusive TECHNAL hardware including locking handles and releasable restrictors. Visible Grid Curtain walling is also utilised in this project for its durability and design flexibility. Featured to enhance daylighting in communal spaces, it was installed at ground level alongside aluminium doors, and at height alongside the windows - adding interest by visually zig-zagging on alternate floors.Within walking distance of Northumbria University's City Campus East, and the main Newcastle University Campus, The Shield offers a mix of self-contained studio flats and en-suite bedrooms with shared kitchens and houses up to 400 students.

Knotwood's interlocking cladding testing: CWCT (Centre for Window & Cladding Technology) Standard Test Methods for Building Envelopes determine the level of serviceability of a façade or rain-screen cladding system when subjected to typical climactic levels of water, air and solid object impact.Knotwood also offers the following benefits:✅ 100% all aluminium systems which are non combustible and compliant with high rise buildings ✅ Powder coating warranty of 15 years ✅ T6 marine grade aluminium which which is corrosion resistant ✅ Interpon, AkzoNobel architectural grade powder coatings

Sector: Built-to-rent accommodation (mix of affordable and commercial rental)Client: Populo LivingArchitect: dRMMMain contractor: Bugler Developments Specified for:Good cost / quality ratioSustainable window frame constructionFaçade-specific performanceExcellent design supportThe Didsbury, in London’s East Ham, is a high quality ‘Built-to-Rent’ development offering an equal mix of affordable and market rent apartments. Designed by Stirling Prize-winning architects dRMM for Newham’s housing company Populo Living, and built by main contractor Bugler, The Didsbury comprises 148 apartments in two six-storey new-build blocks which sit south of the former East Ham Town Hall Annexe, which is being refurbished. Smart interior design is matched by a highly distinctive exterior featuring brick and gold clad facades. VELFAC 200 windows, patio doors and entrance doors are installed in every apartment to provide both a quality finish and impressive low energy and low maintenance performance. Windows, doors and Juliette balconiesEvery apartment features a combination of VELFAC windows and patio doors (leading to a balcony or terrace) and inward opening, tilt/turn VELFAC IN glazed doors. These are used to create Juliette balconies, with balcony fittings integrated within the VELFAC frame to simplify subsequent railing installation. As every apartment features a range of interior materials, inner VELFAC timber frames are painted white to create a neutral and low maintenance finish ideal for rented apartments. External aluminium frames are finished in a dark grey polyester-powder coating to complement to both the brick walls and gold cladding. VELFAC also supplied head pressings to match the window sills, thereby ensuring a neat and consistent finish at both top and bottom. Our ‘go to’ composite glazing brandHaving successfully used VELFAC products on earlier projects dRMM was happy to specify the system for The Didsbury: ‘VELFAC has become our ‘go to’ brand when specifying composite glazing,’ says Findlay McFarlane, Architect at dRMM. ‘The system offers a good cost to quality ratio, and the frame design results in low embodied carbon, primarily due to the percentage of recycled aluminium used. This was important for Populo Living’s sustainability targets, and for dRMM as we champion climate-conscious architecture and the use of natural wood, which again is a feature of the VELFAC frame.’ Main contractor Bugler Developments was also happy with the specification: ‘We knew from the outset that we would be using the VELFAC system, and as we had used it before we knew it would meet our client’s requirements,’ comments Thomas Bugler, Head of Marketing. First discussed in 2015, The Didsbury has been a long and complex build. VELFAC, however, is one of the few suppliers to remain with the project from start to finish, thanks to the quality of the system and the expertise provided at every stage build. ‘We liaised with VELFAC right from the start of the project, through the detailed design stage, procurement and eventually to installation on site, with amendments and updates included along the way when necessary,’ says Thomas. ‘The project’s sustainability and affordability targets became more challenging due to this long planning phase,’ adds Findlay, ‘but the VELFAC system continued to meet the specification as it evolved.’ Technical support above and beyondWhile The Didsbury’s minimalist exterior may look sleek and simple, specification was in fact very complex, comments Findlay, and required expert input from the VELFAC team: ‘The stepped façade and variety of façade-specific performance targets meant that not all floors had an identical specification,’ he explains. ‘In addition, while VELFAC double glazing met all low energy targets, we needed to fit acoustic trickle vents into road-facing windows and ensure lower floors and balconies had windows with Secured by Design accreditation.’ Issues regarding weathering within the gold cladding also needed attention, comments Thomas: ‘This required some on site consultation with the VELFAC team, and updated detailing to ensure the end result was compliant and of the right quality - we are very pleased with the finish, and the windows and doors work well within the overall development.’ In fact, VELFAC support made a significant contribution to the success of the whole project says Findlay: ‘We worked closely with VELFAC on detailed drawings for the windows and doors, and were impressed with the level of support provided – more than that typically provided by a supplier, and another reason why we like to use the VELFAC system when we can. The thoroughness of the detailing meant there were fewer surprises when it came to installation, helping us keep on schedule during the final build and installation phase.’

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

A selection of our high-performance aluminium fenestration solutions has been used for this new café and drive-thru at a popular shopping destination in Wales.The new Starbucks at Parc Pemberton Retail Park has been designed by G1 Architects and built by Trojan Construction, with the aluminium fenestration package skilfully delivered by specialist contractor Sherwood Aluminium Systems.The project features both our cost-effective SCW aluminium curtain walling and our robust SFG shop front glazing system, which are both ideally suited for use in the retail sector as they combine slim sightlines with a robust and durable construction. Our curtain wall system has been used to create a bright and airy interior in the café, and the SFG system has been integrated with our SD aluminium doors to provide safe access at the entrance and exit. Our SD aluminium commercial doors have also been used on the drive-thru building, with the powder-coated aluminium frames perfectly complementing the use of timber cladding and grey façade design.The new Starbucks outlet has benefited from both Trojan Construction and Sherwood Aluminium Systems’ extensive experience undertaking similar schemes for the retailer across the UK, with Sherwood Aluminium Systems named as a preferred supplier for Starbucks.