"architectural metalwork castings"

Washroom's off-site service allowed the design to be carefully fine-tuned prior to installation on site for this prestigious office refurbishment project. Washroom's full height Alto toilet cubicle doors were specified with a real wood veneer finish, stained to match the solid Douglas fir timber panelling in the reception area. The bespoke polished cast concrete vanity units feature integral waste bins and Tego hinged mirror units above. For the new staff shower and changing room area Washroom's full height Alto FENIX shower cubicles were installed along with Z style Forza SGL lockers.

The 2,500m2 basement extends beyond the property where a blue-green roof will be created over a suspended podium deck to form part of the garden. The Triton team worked closely with waterproofing and blue-green roof design specialists, EPG, to create a waterproofing strategy and utilised a comprehensive Construction Quality Assurance protocol agreed between Triton and EPG. The Triton team had been called in by main contractor, Era Build Ltd, to replace a previous supplier who had been unable to provide a warranty. After detailing was complete; Triton Approved Contractor, Cast Contracting Ltd (CCL), installed the systems.

Working together with in-house joinery division, Cre8 Joinery Solutions, Washroom created new washrooms using a mix of different materials including dark wood veneer, concrete and bronze. The long trough shaped and wall-mounted, floating Arpeggio cast concrete vanity units in a traditional dark grey shade, reflect the industrial inspiration of the design, with the addition of black power-coated taps and soap holders providing a contemporary twist. The Cre8 joinery team delivered the bespoke lift lobby panels faced in exactly the same dark oak dyed veneer used on the full height Alto toilet cubicles installed in the washrooms.

At Mayfield Place in Winkfield, Bloor had planned and designed seven five-bedroomed luxury houses. Whitesales were asked to provide sleek, minimalist rooflights which would complement the homes’ design. em.glaze modular ridgelights are modular rooflights available in standard sizes from stock, with a choice of glazing and ventilation options. They exceed all regulations for impact-resistance, durability, environmental and thermal performance. Two rooflights were supplied and installed for each home; one in the deep open-plan dining areas and the other above the first-floor landing and stairwell, casting natural light through both floors.

This mixed use development on the southern fringes of the Olympic Park utilised the Nexus® system to achieve flawless brick-faced soffits to the hundreds of door and window heads. Nexus is a two-part brick soffit system that combine a high integrity stainless steel brickwork support system with custom-designed prefabricated brick faced soffit units. Being 70% lighter than traditional cast concrete solutions, the Nexus soffit system is simply lifted and bolted into position by hand and, as the brick slip facing is manufactured from the same batch as the main brickwork, presents a perfect colour and texture match for flawless transitions.

Quinn Architects, on behalf of the Director Laurence Quinn and his family, undertook the renovation of an eleventh-floor four bedroom Barbican tower apartment. The Barbican is a radical project and has been designated as a site of special architectural interest for its scale, its cohesion and the quality of the architecture. The complex is architecturally important as it is one of London’s best examples of concrete brutalist architecture.

Grain House was a complex, heritage-led refurbishment unifying and extending four historic buildings in Covent Garden with a rich history typical of this iconic location. Our team manufactured and installed a concrete reception desk for a new reception area. The results speak for themselves in this stylish modern office space where this stunning 4.6m long reception desk takes centre stage.The concrete worktop was designed to incorporate the client’s logo and we used our unique eco concrete mix technology which is lighter and stronger than traditional concrete. This helps to give the finished products the durability and performance they need. Despite the complex and detailed casting and installation required for this project, everything was completed to a high spec for the client.

Year: 2012Location: Varese, ItalyProduct: CladdingFinish: RustikArchitectural solutions: Architectural panels, SidingProject type: Residential

Crittall Corporate W20 windows are an important component in the refurbishment and upgrade of a prominent industrial site in historic Bath.Newark Works is recognised as a masterclass in the retrofitting of heritage buildings that has transformed a former riverside heavy engineering factory into 21st century workspace.The buildings, dating from 1857 to 1905, are Grade II listed and sit within Bath’s designated World Heritage Site. They were formerly the home of world-renowned crane makers Stothert & Pitt but had fallen into serious disrepair. Their location as part of a larger Bath Quays redevelopment spurred their re-use, underpinned by sensitive treatment, to create 40,000sq.ft of modern workspace.“We specified the Crittall W20 system to replace the existing, single-glazed, cast-iron framed windows that were at the end of their life and deemed beyond repair,” said Nick Brown, Director of Ferguson Mann Architects.He explained: “The Crittall W20 system was chosen due to the need to use a window system that could sympathetically reproduce the fenestration of the large industrial windows – many of which were 3.6m tall – but also provide a huge thermal improvement.”  It was recognised that retaining the original cast iron windows and introducing secondary glazing was neither economically viable nor appropriate aesthetically.“The slim profiles of the Crittall W20 system meant we didn’t have to compromise on the amazing amount of natural light coming into the interior whilst improving the air tightness and reducing the overall heat loss of the building through the windows,” said Brown.He added: “Crittall were also able to recreate the opening vent arrangement of the existing windows, meaning we could also improve the natural ventilation provision to the new workspaces.”Consulting engineers Buro Happold calculated that just replacing the existing single-glazed windows with new double-glazed alternatives with a U-value of 1.8W/m2K would result in a 16 percent annual energy saving. That translated to 21.4 tonnes of CO₂. Over the building’s lifespan of, say, 25 years, that equated to a 535-tonne reduction in CO₂ emissions.In view of the heritage credentials of the buildings, planners and conservation officers at Bath & North East Somerset Council were consulted on the desire to replace the original fenestration with like-for-like steel windows. The local authority was keen that the buildings should be brought back into use after several previous failed attempts. They wanted the site’s historic significance to be respected while avoiding the desire to turn Newark Works into a ‘museum piece’. The installation of Crittall W20 was approved and two of the original cast-iron windows have been retained and refurbished as a reminder of the original building but not in a way so as to compromise the improved thermal performance of the whole.Summing up, Nick Brown comments: “Everyone is really pleased with the final result.”

Project: Manufacture and installation of 10 bespoke concrete pendant light fittings for newly refurbished London gym and changing rooms. Materials used: Hand-cast concrete sphere shaped lamp shades with hand applied metallic internal finish and stainless steel fittings. We were asked to manufacture 10 bespoke extra large sphere-shaped concrete pendant lamps with hand applied metallic internal finish and stainless steel fittings. Product Spec: Size: diameter 47cm, shade height 28cm, maximum suspension height 120cm Weight 6.25kg Finish/ Colour: Rough finish – GREY Cable / cord : Herringbone brown linen Ceiling rose : Concrete GREY Colour temperature: 3000k LED WARM WHITE

Lazenby’s Henley Buff Polished Concrete floor was laid in a new side and rear extension to this stunning property in Cheshire.A key consideration by the clients was that the polished concrete floor be a very close match to the concrete walls which had been cast by the main contractor. Lazenby provided numerous samples for sign off before the client confirmed Henley Buff as the selected colour.The architects wanted to use industrial materials such as concrete and timber throughout the project but still wanted to achieve a warm and homely environment. This was successfully achieved by a clever use of lighting and subtle tones within the materials.To create an ultra modern, flexible space, the polished concrete floor also extends out to the patio area where it connects seamlessly with the internal flooring

Sheraton Huzhou Hot Spring Resort Location: Huzhou, Zhejiang. Planner: Shanghai Feizhou Group. Construction surface: 65.000 m². Architecture: Mr. Ma Yansong. Interior architecture: HBA. Number of rooms: 282. Fittings supplier: Häfele. Completion: September 2012.

Bloot Architecture, a concept-driven architectural practice located in the Netherlands, has recently specified P C Henderson’s Husky 100 sliding door system for the renovation of a luxury villa. After falling in love with the beautiful and picturesque surroundings of the National Park Veluwezoom in Holland, the architecture firms client purchased a dilapidated 1950’s villa in order to live in their dream location. What ensued was a sustainable refurbishment and extension project – key features included the creation of open plan living, full of natural light, with the inclusion of a flexible office space built on via an extension.

Project: Manufacture and installation of concrete worktops at the office canteenClient: Everybody’s Music ManagementMaterials used:  Bespoke BTX GRC 2500 x 65 x 30 mm precast and hand polished concrete worktops in Silk Mist finish.Three large concrete panels; each 2500 mm long and 650 mm wide with side returns; were installed by the Living Concrete team in the communal office space at Everybody’s Music Management offices in North London.The worktops were cast to the client’s individual and unique specifications using our BTX Ultra High Performance Concrete mix with a hydrophobic agent to limit moisture absorption. The worktops were cut to fit various kitchen appliances and then treated and sealed to make them stain proof. Concrete worktops are extremely strong and durable and designed to withstand high level of use.

Kings Cross Railway has been one of the largest and most exciting London redevelopments in recent years. In Victorian times Kings Cross was a thriving industrial area but by the end of last century, mostly had fallen into disrepair and dis-used buildings, sidings, warehouses and contaminated land. The move of the Channel Tunnel rail link from Waterloo to St Pancras in 1996 meant the need for change at the 67 acre site. The glass roof consists of two adjacent Victorian steel ‘barrel-vaults’ which now feature our PlasGard patent glazing system. A special glazing bar for use at the ridge was designed with a low external capping so as not to cast shadow onto the photo-voltaic cells to ensure optimal performance. Elsewhere laminated clear glass was used for safety in accordance with overhead glazing guidelines.

The Lift 109 viewpoint designed by Ralph Appelbaum Associates has opened within the rebuilt chimney of Battersea Power Station in London. We manufactured and installed a concrete reception desk for the Lift 109 Experience reception area which is located in the Power Station’s magnificent Art Deco Turbine Hall A.Living Concrete team used an innovative concrete application technique to create custom-built reception desk for our client Beck Interiors. MicroConcrete fluted tiles in Willow Green colour were cladded onto MDF frame, seamlessly achieving a very complex and detailed design. Hand cast and hand polished oval shape concrete worktops in Ivory were assembled onsite. By using the best of modern technology, we have created a modern and robust design that demonstrates how concrete can be both good looking and functional.

As part of the project all the Alto toilet cubicle doors and partitions at this Mayfair office were wrapped using innovative architectural film in a dark slate grey textured ash veneer finish - provided as part of Washroom's Refresh Service. As well as being environmentally-friendly and quick to install, architectural film is also extremely hardwearing and durable so will further prolong the lifecycle of the toilet cubicles. The sleek dark wood veneer finish is just one of more than one thousand different architectural films available to choose from including wood, metal, marble, leather and stone.

The Newton Station is an important architectural project with contemporary character located in Adelaide. Various surfaces and details of the Atlas Concorde grey porcelain range were used in the project, which is an excellent example of public architecture.Atlas Concorde porcelain tiles are characterised by top quality technical performance and aesthetics; it is perfect for high traffic architectural projects. For the Newton Station project the Trust series was used, porcelain tiles with a matt finish that are the perfect solution for any kind of outdoor floors and walls.The outdoor tiles used in the Australian station give the project a contemporary feel and perfectly integrate with the surrounding urban environment. 

Gustavelund Hotel is family-run business offering lodging, food, activities and a wide range of services, all set against a backdrop of Finnish art, architecture and design. Given that the hotel is a protected building, it was important to select an accessibility lift which preserved the structural frame and was in keeping with the interior design of this architectural gem.

The Cambridge Central Mosque is an extraordinary building that fuses traditional architecture with modern. The thought behind it was to create a British mosque for the 21st century, and the architects found inspiration in both Islamic and English religious architectural traditions. Marks Barfield Architects won the competition to design the building in 2009, and their concept was to create a calm oasis with a lot of green areas.

On this high profile development project the Living Concrete team worked to very tight deadlines installing 580m2 of self-levelling FluidConcrete flooring throughout the house. FluidConcrete has a smooth, Polished-Concrete-like finish, that makes it perfect for a modern, minimalist design that can be easily combined with materials like wood and ceramic and it is also suitable for under-floor heating. It can be applied to interior surfaces, with no need for joins or breaks.The large format bespoke Plain and Corner concrete panels were cast to the client’s individual and unique specifications using our BTX Ultra High Performance Concrete mix with a hydrophobic agent to limit moisture absorption. The panels were cut to fit around the staircase and walls and then treated and sealed to make them stain proof.The finished effect is a modern, spacious look that complements client’s design style and creates a truly unique and highly sophisticated space.

300 m2 of Optima XTR Contour in 6063 T6 Aluminium Extrusion and 3000 m2 of Optima TFC+ in Aluminium 3103 Grade has been used in the completion of Bromley-by-Bow in East London.Bromley-By-Bow is a visually striking array, comprised of five high rise residential blocks with community spaces and commercial areas at ground level.Sotech’s newest system innovation – XTR Contour – was chosen as it allowed the design team to mimic the pre-cast concrete fluted panels in a consistent manner.In order to form the fluted decorative areas below the windows, a new extrusion profile was developed – XTR Contour Concave. The profile of the design was a copy of the pre-cast concrete façade panels which are fluted in the same general locations.Whilst systemised testing wasn’t carried out on this project, the design team invested significant time in 3D printing profiles to prove concepts prior manufacturing the physical die. This saved time and money in the overall project scheme.Mohamadrez Jenaban, Technical Lead at Sotech “I have undertaken a number of simulation analyses for this project to ensure panel safety, adequate performance and stability under the given conditions. We were able to determine 1- number of stiffeners required for these panels to keep deflection below CWCT recommendation 2- the maximum fixing span to keep the stress below the material permissible stress value”. The main challenge on the scheme was implementing a cap to the XTR Contour profiles upon the request of the Fire Engineer. On such a shallow profile this is challenging as there is little room for any form of fabrication works. In response to this challenge, we therefore developed internal screw ports within the extruded profile. This allowed us to mechanically fix plates to the head and the base of the profile and conform the Fire Engineer’s requirements.Sotech’s was able to provide key advice and guidance in the creation of the XTR profile, as well as key guidance on how to rationalise the arrangement to standardise die quantities, shape and size.TESTIMONIALSJamie Smith, Commercial Manager at Sotech: “The extrusion process has some restrictions and requires knowledge of the extruding process to determine what can be manufactured through a die. Flow rates of aluminium, hollow elements and wall thickness all play a significant part in the final die composition. Sotech’s technical team are able to remove the risk to the client and advise on what is physically capable, saving time and money through failed dies.”“The Optima XTR Contour – Concave systems gives an aesthetically pleasing visual and the powder coating enhances the system giving more definition to the fluting vs the contrasting brickwork surround. Our Optima TFC+ system, finished in Axalta Textured Powder to the recessed balconies, mixes well against the pre-cast concrete. The discrete fixing of the system is perfectly suited for this type of application when secret fixing systems by be burdensome in confined spaces.”Reece Barnes Commercial Director at Alliance Facades said: “Bromley-by-Bow is our flagship project and largest to date, providing over 500 homes, and requiring over 3,000m2 of rainscreen cladding…We worked closely with Sotech to deliver phases 1 and 2 of the mixed-use development, selecting the Optima XTR Contour and TFC+ range respectively.“XTR Contour was the perfect solution for the scheme as it’s extremely hardwearing and versatile, and enabled us to conform to the fire engineer’s requirements. The design team at Sotech proved themselves again and again in the way they rose to the challenges of this scheme and found innovative solutions. The project looks fantastic – well done everyone!”

A bespoke design delivered within stringent architectural constraints. 

The Shard, 31 St Thomas Street, London SE1 9RYThe Shard is not simply an iconic building but represents a new approach to expanding the urban landscape. Offices, residences, and public spaces alike are all taken skyward.The Shard, an iconic skyscraper in London, represents one of the city's most prestigious architectural landmarks. Ensuring efficient utility access solutions within such a complex and monumental structure was a significant challenge. This case study highlights the successful collaboration between The Shard and Rapid Access Ltd, a leading supplier of FlipFix Access Panels that utilize the fast fitting FlipFix Clamps for secure and quick installation.Challenges:1. Utility Access Complexity: The Shard's unique architectural design made access to utility systems, including plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and telecommunications, particularly complex.2. Architectural Significance: The project demanded a high level of architectural integrity and minimal disruption to the building's aesthetics during the installation of access panels.3. Efficient Installation: With a building of this magnitude, an efficient and rapid installation process was crucial to minimize downtime and disturbance to occupants.Solution:Rapid Access Ltd, known for their expertise in access solutions, was chosen to address the specific requirements of The Shard. The solution included the installation of FlipFix Access Panels, which leverage the fast fitting FlipFix Clamps, designed to meet the following key criteria:1. FlipFix Access Panels: Rapid Access Ltd provided access panels that integrated seamlessly into the complex architecture of The Shard while offering secure access to utility systems.2. FlipFix Clamps: The use of FlipFix Clamps ensured quick and reliable installation, minimizing disruption and maintaining architectural integrity.3. Efficiency and Security: The access panels and FlipFix Clamps facilitated efficient access to utility systems while ensuring the security and safety of the building.Implementation:The installation of FlipFix Access Panels utilizing FlipFix Clamps by Rapid Access Ltd was executed with precision and expertise. The unique design of FlipFix Clamps enabled swift and secure installation, minimizing downtime and ensuring the structural integrity of The Shard.Conclusion:The collaboration between The Shard and Rapid Access Ltd demonstrated the successful integration of utility access solutions into a complex and iconic skyscraper. The installation of FlipFix Access Panels, using the fast fitting FlipFix Clamps, not only met functional needs but also contributed to the overall success of The Shard, ensuring efficiency and architectural harmony. This case study underscores the importance of selecting the right access solutions provider for complex architectural projects.

There was a requirement to cut down directly incident sunlight, the idea came up to work with DucoSun Wing in front of the façade. These large, wing-shaped louvre blades were made of a black perforated sheet that was made in special non-standard sizes for this project. This system therefore works as solar shading on the one hand as well as fulfilling an architectural function on the other, which is a defining factor in the architectural appearance of the office building.

Designing for these major weather events is a balancing act. Architects and structural engineers have to keep one eye on the day-to-day use of the building and the other on the safety of the occupants should a major weather event occur. This is especially important for high-occupancy buildings, such as schools and hospitals and those that are essential to emergency efforts in the event of a storm, such as emergency-response centers. The easy answer is to create a building akin to a totally sealed, in-house safe room, but this does nothing for aesthetics.

In partnership with Axis Architecture, we supported the creation of a new space for a financial services firm in Grosvenor House in Solihull.Designers, Axis Architecture/ Installation Contractors,John Atkinson Interiors Axis Architecture designed this clever break out area which used the Freestyle as bespoke cut baffles in on the ceiling and The 3D Wave and Tetris in the meeting rooms.The brief was to create a brand new high specification dining and refreshment area sitting within the buildings canteen area in order to create the right ambience, vibrancy and atmosphere Soundtect were chosen for their innovative acoustic paneling. Soundtect acoustic panels were chosen effectively control sound break out as well as add vibrancy to the space by co-ordinating with the rest of the fit out and client branding.

Wanangkura Stadium is Port Hedland new multi‐purpose recreational centre. The name for the centre was chosen from hundreds of local submissions and means ‘whirlwind’ in the local Kariyarra language. The title pays tribute to the centre’s design, which architect Sophie Cleland likened to a cyclonic pattern, creating a ‘shimmering, rippling effect on an otherwise flat landscape’. Western Australia Premier Colin Barnett called the Centre ‘… a spectacular piece of architecture that will become a landmark for Hedland’.ARM Architecture’s approach to the design considered this building as a mirage – a shimmering, rippling effect on an otherwise flat landscape. Using a ‘halftone’ pixelated technique, the building's entry façade acts as a clear visual image from long distances, whilst being highly agitated on closer inspection. The opposite side faces the Kevin Scott oval, accommodating related facilities along the oval, including a spectator’s stand, change rooms and spectator suites. Thanks to The Fairview Group’s extensive colour range of VitraNamel, ARM Architecture were able to create stunning effect they wanted. VitraNamel was chosen over VitraBond due to its extremely robust and durable properties which is essential for such a building which has heavy traffic and extreme wear. VitraNamel is a decorative high strength architectural panel with an incredibly tough, almost indestructible finish. It consists of a vitreous enamel coating on a decarbonised steel panel, with a honeycomb or calcium silicate core. Vitreous enamelled architectural panels are routinely specified for commercial, institutional and infrastructure projects around the world; perfect for high impact areas such as train stations, shopping malls and tunnels.

Architect: GSS ArchitectureInstaller: Teams RoofingStone: Fletcher Bank SandstoneGSS Architecture were the lead architects for the £11m Enterprise and Innovation Centre in the heart of Sunderland.The development of a large new building next to a Grade II listed building contrasts the old and the new with some style.The Aztec Rainscreen System comprised a ventilated Fletcher Bank Sandstone façade at 40mm and was installed by Teams Roofing. Completion was in 2016.

Project Overview:Fusion Facades Limited took center stage in the design and supply of architectural aluminium solutions for Battersea Reach Blocks H & J. Set over 15 storeys, this development known as The Pinnacle comprises 88 apartments, featuring an exclusive collection of penthouses. Boasting exquisite features, including floor-to-ceiling windows, private balconies or terraces, and meticulously designed interiors by Broadway Malyan Architects, these luxury homes offer residents an unparalleled living experience with spacious layouts ranging from 613 sq. ft. to 3319 sq. ft. Fusion Facades played a crucial role by designing and supplying Brise Soleil solar shading, SnapLok Capping for flat roof parapet protection, and rainscreen cladding.Project Details:Scope of Works:Design and supply of Brise Soleil solar shadingDesign and supply of SnapLok Capping for flat roof parapet protectionDesign and supply of rainscreen claddingClient's Requirements:Battersea Reach Blocks H & J demanded architectural solutions that not only complemented the modern luxury of The Pinnacle but also accentuated the stunning riverside views. The client's key project requirements included:Architectural Excellence: A design that reflects the high-end luxury and modernity of The Pinnacle while seamlessly blending with Broadway Malyan Architects' interiors.Riverside Views: Solutions that enhance and frame the breathtaking riverside views from the apartments across all 15 storeys.Comprehensive Protection: Architectural elements that provide solar shading, protect flat roof parapets, and offer a sleek rainscreen cladding solution for the building.Fusion Facades' Approach:Fusion Facades Limited approached the Battersea Reach Blocks H & J project with a commitment to innovation and architectural finesse:Brise Soleil Solar Shading: Fusion Facades meticulously designed and supplied Brise Soleil, a solar shading solution that not only offers sun control but also adds an element of contemporary elegance to the exterior.SnapLok Capping for Flat Roof Parapets: The SnapLok Capping solution provided by Fusion Facades served a dual purpose, offering protection to flat roof parapets while contributing to the overall sleek aesthetic of the building.Rainscreen Cladding: Fusion Facades delivered a rainscreen cladding solution that not only offered weather protection but also added texture and depth to the building's facade, enhancing its visual appeal.Results:Fusion Facades Limited's design and supply contributions to Battersea Reach Blocks H & J yielded outstanding results:Architectural Integration: The Brise Soleil solar shading, SnapLok Capping, and rainscreen cladding seamlessly integrated into The Pinnacle's modern luxury aesthetic, enhancing the overall architectural excellence.Riverside Views Accentuated: The carefully considered design of Fusion Facades' solutions accentuated the stunning riverside views from all 88 apartments, contributing to the overall appeal of Battersea Reach Blocks H & J.Comprehensive Protection: Fusion Facades not only provided architectural elements for aesthetic enhancement but also ensured comprehensive protection with the SnapLok Capping and rainscreen cladding solutions.Conclusion:Fusion Facades Limited's design and supply of Brise Soleil solar shading, SnapLok Capping for flat roof parapet protection, and rainscreen cladding for Battersea Reach Blocks H & J exemplifies their commitment to architectural excellence. This case study underscores the importance of expertly designed and supplied solutions in achieving a harmonious blend of luxury, functionality, and breathtaking views in modern residential developments. Fusion Facades' role in Battersea Reach Blocks H & J stands as a testament to their ability to elevate architectural aesthetics to new heights.

FlexEJ has designed and manufactured lateral expansion joints with Inconel 625 bellows designed to install in existing pre-cast concrete forms.The London City Airport terminal expansion is being built on a concrete deck supported on over 1000 piles. Between the sections of the deck there can be movement and where critical services pass between sections a fully enclosed expansion joint is required.INSTALLATIONDesigning the expansion joints for installation at site into the existing concrete sections was a challenge. FlexEJ designed and supplied installation tooling which allowed the expansion joint to be inserted into the concrete from one side – complete with internal removable pre-extension bars – and then finally seal welded.FURTHER DETAILSIf you are interested in finding out more about our expansion joint design and manufacturing capabilities, or if you have enquiries for utility related projects, please contact our Technical Sales Team on +44 (0) 1384 881188 or send an email to sales@flexej.co.uk.

Zaha Hadid, english-iraki architect, first female recipient of the Pritzker Architecture Prize in 2004 (Nobel Prize of architecture), just ended in Rome the creation of the MAXXI: National Museum of the 21st Century Arts. Barrisol® Lumière® (a luminous stretch ceiling) has been installed in this historical and contemporary museum. (credits : Zaha Hadid Architects© 2009, photograph : Roland Halbe & Helene Binet) Architect : Zaha Hadid

Poundbury is a new experimental town in the county of Dorset in England, initiated by Prince Charles approximately thirty years ago. A mixture of Victorian architecture and Baroque villas, the town is a concentrate of architectural styles and colours. The most recent addition is Queen Mother square, which serves as the town centre. This Palladian-inspired square houses the town’s first hotel - the Duchess of Cornwall Inn. VMZINC® created impressive zinc ornaments to decorate this new building

The ChallengeThe Kings Hill development, phase 3, is comprised of 132 new units ranging in scale from two-bedroomed apartments to five bedroomed houses, close to the village of West Malling, in Kent. The wider Kings Hill area is a mixed-use development of over 2,000 homes, commercial and retail space. It is situated on the site of the former RAF Kings Hill airfield, which has been developed over the last 25 years, and is noted for its rich, landscape-led design.The SolutionA more formal, urban design, the scheme provides a departure from earlier phases of Kings Hill by adopting a more contemporary architectural language, albeit one that still fits comfortably within its context.Extensive analysis of the conservation area in the nearby West Malling was undertaken and a contemporary interpretation of the predominantly brick Georgian architecture was proposed, with large windows and crisp minimal detailing, which was lifted and invigorated by extensive brick detailing referencing that found in the local vernacular.The brick chosen to complement the development’s architecture was Cathedral Cream, a buff, stock thrown brick from Forterra’s Ecostock range.The BenefitsThe choice of Cathedral Cream helped to provide a contemporary architectural language that fits comfortably within its context.

Scotland’s first dedicated design museum blends architectural expression with energy conscious design.

Project OverviewGuttermaster Limited played a pivotal role in enhancing and maintaining Thomas Rotherham College, a prestigious educational institution. This case study focuses on the successful supply of Guttermaster's Serpentine Gutter, showcasing how the project team collaborated to upgrade the college's rainwater management system and preserve its architectural integrity.Project DetailsScope of Works:Supply of Serpentine GutterClient's Requirements:Thomas Rotherham College sought a modern, efficient, and visually appealing rainwater management system to replace its aging guttering. The primary project objectives were as follows:Upgraded Rainwater System: The college required a new, high-performance rainwater system to replace the existing, deteriorating one.Architectural Preservation: The new system needed to seamlessly integrate into the college's architectural design, preserving the institution's historical and aesthetic charm.Guttermaster's Approach:Guttermaster Limited approached the project with an emphasis on innovative design and the supply of high-quality rainwater management materials:Historical Preservation: The design and supply of materials took into account the college's historical architectural elements, ensuring that the modern guttering components would seamlessly blend with the existing structure.Efficiency and Durability: The Serpentine Gutter was engineered for optimal rainwater management, offering high performance, durability, and low maintenance to meet the college's long-term needs.ResultsThe collaborative effort between Guttermaster Limited and Thomas Rotherham College resulted in an exemplary project:Upgraded Rainwater System: The supply of the Serpentine Gutter system effectively replaced the aging rainwater management system, ensuring efficient water drainage and collection.Architectural Integration: Guttermaster's design and supply maintained the college's architectural integrity. The new Serpentine Gutter components seamlessly blended with the historical features, enhancing the overall appearance of the institution.Long-Term Solution: The project provided the college with high-quality, low-maintenance rainwater system components that will serve its needs for many years to come, reducing maintenance costs and ensuring the preservation of the building's historic character.ConclusionThe successful supply of Guttermaster's Serpentine Gutter for Thomas Rotherham College exemplifies the company's commitment to delivering high-quality rainwater management solutions that balance functionality with architectural preservation. This project showcases the power of effective collaboration and innovation in ensuring that an educational institution not only maintains its historical charm but also benefits from a modern, efficient rainwater system that will serve its needs for many years to come.