"bedding"

Dynamic interior spaces created for flagship care homeIssue Quantum Care were launching their flagship care home, Mantles Court, and wanted an interior design that created a warm, welcoming and comfortable space. Quantum Care asked WHAT IF? Designs to create the interior spaces with a non-clinical feel, making the state of the art, 78-bed care facility feel like a home-from-home for residents. Approach WHAT IF? Designs looked at the flow of resident living spaces and the needs for each area. Communal spaces including lounges, dining and kitchen areas required floors that were easy to clean, looked fantastic and provided safety from slips. For the ensuite bathrooms, a softer, neutral coloured floor with slip resistance for both staff and residents was needed, while bedrooms called for a more homely, domestic feel, with comfort under foot as a priority. Solution Altro Wood was chosen for the dining room, bedrooms and the hair salon for its natural, homely, good looks. Altro Aquarius and Altro Pisces, with their wide colour palette and lifetime sustained slip resistance, were selected for the ensuite bathrooms, providing safety for shoe and barefoot users. And in the communal areas, Altro Ensemble was chosen for its flexibility and design choices as well as its noise reduction and comfort underfoot.

Stirling Prize-winning architects Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios were commissioned by YTL Developments to initiate the first phase of transforming the historic Filton Airfield and build new homes at Brabazon. The Hangar District is a sustainable residential quarter leading the transformation of this 380-acre site. It includes 303 homes: family houses, private apartments, and affordable homes are all set with private gardens and community spaces along accessible streets.The masterplan maximizes the site’s potential by accommodating people and transportation demands from the Arena while ensuring safety and convenience for residents and visitors. 15-minute neighborhoods shape the district’s identity with public spaces.The Hangar District uses a blend of Freshfield Lane’s Selected Lights, First Quality Multi and Selected Dark clay bricks, all of which sit superbly amongst the sites greenery and modern aesthetic. The dark brown tones are modern and eye-catching when partnered with the lighter tones of the Selected Lights.Ultimately, Brabazon will include over 6,000 homes for all generations, from rental apartments to first-time buyer flats, open-market houses, and retirement properties. Up to 2,000 student beds will be available, and 26.5% of homes will be affordable, totaling over 1,700 homes and apartments.

Addenbrookes Hospital Surge Centre2000m² Of CemfloorA temporary surge facility on the site of Addenbrookes Hospital to relieve pressure on the main hospital as part ofthe NHS' regional surge planFloor Screeding Solutions installed 2,000m2 of Cemfloor, the chosen screed for the project, which was supplied by Mick George Concrete, Cambridge.With the rising case numbers of Corona virus during the pandemic, hospitals were coming under increasing pressure for more critical care beds, and Surge Plans were put in place across the country to help alleviate this pressure.Addenbrooke Hospital in Cambridge sought to construct a ‘Surge Centre’ to cope with the additional demands on the hospital, and Cemfloor was chosen for the project due to its faster installation time and drying time compared to traditional sand and cement screeds. This helped to keep the project on track with its tight building schedule.Lewis Deck construction offered a strong light weight flooring option for the large pour area. As Cemfloor is a flowing screed, 500m2 of screed per day was poured over this by Dave Washbrook and his team from Floor Screeding Solutions, eliminating the need for on-site mixing.The main advantage Cemfloor has over other flowing screeds is the quicker drying times, and that it can accept foot traffic after 24 / 48 hours, meaning that construction could continue quickly and efficiently to meet the project deadline.

The refurbishment of children's wards at Leighton Hospital by the Estates Management Team at Mid Cheshire Hospitals aimed to alleviate the distress often associated with hospital visits for young patients. Recognizing the anxiety induced by unfamiliar surroundings, the team prioritized transforming clinical spaces into welcoming environments conducive to children's wellbeing and recovery.Employing an innovative approach, large format prints of wildlife in forest and jungle settings adorned the walls behind beds, accompanied by soft natural colours on walls, panels, and fixtures. The use of RAL Green 6019 on the DeepClean LST radiator guards contributed to the soothing ambiance, seamlessly blending with the floor covering and complementing the blue panelling behind the wall-mounted washbasins. This thoughtful design choice aimed to create a calming and tranquil atmosphere for children during their recuperation.Furthermore, the choice of RAL White 9003 for the guards in the ward corridors maintained a clean and hygienic environment. The DeepClean guards, featuring a patented drop-down front panel for easy access and a BioCote anti-microbial coating, played a crucial role in upholding hygiene standards in critical care areas.To further enhance the natural theme, Contour supplied a column casing finished in RAL Brown 1019, harmonizing with the jungle and forest-inspired décor. This comprehensive refurbishment initiative demonstrates a commitment to not only aesthetics but also the holistic wellbeing of young patients undergoing treatment at Leighton Hospital.

Construction began on a new £350 million state-of-the-art hospital in South Wales in 2017 and has been completed during the global pandemic. The 560-bed hospital provides specialist and critical care treatment for over 600,000 people.Crown House Technologies, part of the O’Rourke Group approached us as they were looking for a reliable local company who could provide quality cost-effective washroom products suitable for a clinical environment which were easy to install.Crown House Technologies contacted our Specifications Manager, Tony Howarth to discuss the project and talk through their requirements. Further meetings took place between our specialists and the client and products were recommended based on the information we obtained ensuring all needs had been addressed. The client expressed an interest in The Dudley Illusion Compact Universal frame and Phantom concealed cistern along with the dimple lever that the less able could use with ease. We provided a sample room including all of the products chosen for demonstration purposes to ensure the client was happy before progressing with the installation.Testimonial“TYDE's product range caters for all budgets and settings. It was ideal having a local supplier who we could rely on and who we could communicate with easily. We were under tight time restraints so it was important the installation was quick and hassle-free. Everything was carried out in a professional manner."

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

Demonstrating Products That Perform!Project Description:Hollywood Road, Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea in London, is a wonderful community of restaurants and pubs and a fantastic example of an area well loved by residents. Improvements to Hollywood Road will create a more pleasant and more enjoyable experience for residents as well as anyone walking down the road or sitting outside one of the bars or restaurants. Product Showcase:Larsen Building Products – With almost 50 years experience in supplying products that perform for major projects nationally, our Streetscape BS 7533 paving mortar system is the preferred option for the installation of paving. Products used:         FBC Eco Fine Bedding Concrete • Ideal for pavements constructed with natural stone, concrete & clay paving units.FJM Eco Flowable Jointing Mortar• Filled the joints to complete the installation. Rapid setting with high early strength gain, FJM Eco can be opened to foot traffic in one hour.Tectonix – With over 35 years of combined know-how, Tectonix has a wealth of experience in procuring natural stone paving from around the globe and supplying into the heart of both the commercial and residential build environment. Products supplied:- Chinese & Portuguese granite, a mix of silver grey & buff colours. For further information or technical data sheets on the Larsen Streetscape product range, please visit www.larsenbuildingproducts.com. 

The Pears Building by Hopkins Architects is a world-class immunology research and treatment centre built for University College London. With only 5 similar specialist immunology centres in the world (and the only one outside of the US), the Pears Building offers world-class expertise to patients. The Pears Building provides offices, multiple research wings to house over 200 researchers and a 35-bed patient hospital for outpatients or visiting academics.At the centre of the building is a large atrium with joins the wider building and its office space to the public-facing café and entrance area. Vast, open windows flood interiors with huge amounts of natural light creating a soothing, and uncluttered feeling. Materials selected for the building were done for their sustainable credentials, ease of maintenance, durability, and cost.The Pears Building was designed to avoid becoming a “monolithic” structure and sits well within the local area. During its construction efforts were made to retain as many existing trees on the site as possible to ensure the village-esque feeling of Hampstead is uninterrupted. As expected with forward-thinking institutions, the architects endeavoured to achieve a BREEAM excellent rating, which it easily achieved with its holistic approach to sustainability.The Pears building uses Freshfield Lanes First Quality Multi in its construction and has been commended for numerous awards and won the Public Buildings award at the Construction News Awards.

Sopro RS 648 Vibration Slurry was selected for the LIDL method of tiling which consists of compact-vibration floor tile fixing, in the new LIDL store in Bently, Doncaster. Smet Supported Partner, Core PIC Ltd, selected the superior quality German-made, RS 648 Vibration Slurry for its flexibility as a bonding slurry in the installation of stone and ceramic tiles, making it ideal for using in vibrated floor systems (or indeed conventional methods). The tiling was carried on on behalf of main contractor PDR Construction.In preparing the floor to LIDL spec, the floor screed is placed and struck off to required levels and pre-compacted using a straight edge. The bonding layer, namely Sopro RS 648 vibration slurry, is applied to prepared and pre-compacted floor screed and ceramic tiles are immediately placed with tightly butted joints to LIDL spec.After installation of a vibratable area (10 – 20 m², depending on situation/ambient conditions and resultant setting behaviour of floor screed), a surface vibrator is passed over floor covering and tiles vibrated into the adhesive bed. When sufficiently set, hardened and bonded joints were grouted with Sopro FL 526 Flexible Tile grout.Sopro RS 648 Vibration Slurry is a one-component, fibre-reinforced, polymer-modified, trass-bearing, cementitious bonding and contact slurry. Applied as flexible bonding slurry for installation of stone and ceramic coverings using vibrated floor system or conventional methods. It’s ideal for slurry application technique. Sopro RS 648 is particularly suitable for laying tiles with low water absorption (fully vitrified stoneware). For laying large-format units (30 cm × 60 cm) using vibrated floor system. It can also be used as slurry-applied bonding layer on substrates and on bedding adhesive.Sopro FL 526 Flexible Tile Grout is a flexible, trass-bearing, cementitious tile grout, meeting CG2 WA requirements to DIN EN 13 888. Suitable for grouting ceramic, fully vitrified stoneware, natural and cast stone coverings and glass block assemblies. Rapid set for low-suction tiles, with specially tailored joint-filling properties and first-rate washability (removability). Particularly suitable for balconies, patios and in conjunction with floor heating systems (UFH).The product’s special properties and SMET’s superior technical backup, are key factors in choosing Sopro RS 648 Vibration Slurry and Sopro FL 526 Flexible Tile Grout. Smet Building Products Ltd is committed to delivering high-quality products to the construction of LIDL stores.For more info on our range of SMET Professional Tiling Products.PDR built the new LoF (Lidl of the future) store in Bentley Doncaster. The 23,000 sq/ft store with its striking design will help to increase Lidl’s market share and see their profits continue to rise in the UK. The Bentley store will be PDR’s 10th new build store for Lidl.Related DownloadsTDS Sopro RS 648 Vibration SlurryTDS Sopro FL 526 – Flexible Tile GroutSmet Professional Tiling Systems Brochure

The Wilberforce Trust is a charity dedicated to helping and empowering those with sight and hearing loss and impairment in the York and North Yorkshire area to live fulfilling and independent lives. The Trust had tenants in community based supported housing and family homes around York but wanted to deliver an innovative ‘extra care’ housing scheme designed especially for people with a visual impairment and other disabilities; the first of its kind in the area.Wilberforce House offers 30 one-bed, open-plan purpose-built, self-contained apartments along with a Living & Learning Zone – providing education and leisure activities – a courtyard cafe and offices for the Trust itself, all set in four acres of accessible landscaped gardens, including a large sensory garden. The apartments utilise smart home and assistive technology personalised to their lifestyle needs.A consultant was employed to review the development’s plans with regard to fire safety. His report included recommendations for additional fire safety measures including the ability for cooker hobs to be switched off by an alarm, as kitchen fires are a significant risk with 50% of all accidental house fires starting in the kitchen. WHY THE FIRECHIEF KITCHEN STOVE GUARD? The initial solution proposed was costly as it meant hob alarms would need to be hard wired into each apartment’s fuse board. Damian Pocknell, Head of Housing, Facilities & IT at the Wilberforce Trust recalled having seen and read about the Firechief Kitchen Stove Guard and realised that this would be much more cost effective. The fire consultant agreed and subsequently signed off on the Kitchen Stove Guard as the approved solution.  

A busy access corridor linking one wing to another at a major Yorkshire Hospital now benefits from a wall protection system supplied and installed by Yeoman Shield.The heavy footfall, wheeled equipment and bed trolleys continually traversing the path between two busy wings was starting to take its toll on the walls and corners of the corridor in the form of marking, denting and scratching.Keen to maintain the high smart standards as well as lifecycle and sustainability of the property, the hospital choose a protection system from Yeoman Shield to overcome such damage.200mm Protection Rail was fitted “flat-back” to the wall on one side of the access way with FalmouthEx Wall Protection Panels installed below the rail.Rubber stop ends/returns (new to the Yeoman Shield range) were applied to the rail as added defence against heavily laden trolleys and carts that may come into contact.The opposing wall was also offered protection by the same Yeoman Shield 200mm Protection Rail this time installed on 60mm “stand-off” allowing the system to become a supportive rail for those who require it. The rail was again finished with the durable hardwearing rubber accessories.Matching 75 x 75 mm Corner Protection Angles were put on vulnerable corners on both sides of the walkway completing a comprehensive wall protection system that will help to reduce the time and money spent on redecoration and repair over the lifecycle of the building.More information on Yeoman Shield’s cost-effective wall & door protection systems can be found at www.yeomanshield.com or by calling 0113 279 5854.

The new build £75m project is part of the regeneration of the Temple Quarter enterprise zone in the city and includes a new office development at 3 Glass Wharf. The office building which will be occupied by HMRC, features a shimmering external envelope with an amalgamation of glazed units and rainscreen panels finished in a palette of champagne and sea foam green. The result is an external facade that creates a symmetry with both the surrounding buildings and its proximity to the riverside area. Metalline supplied and manufactured over 3000m2 of bespoke aluminium rainscreen panels which included large 4.0metre x 2.0metre panels featuring a 3D effect diagonal crease across each panel to enhance the light and shaded appearance of the façade. Each of these panels were finished and delivered in batch quantity to ensure continuity of colour. Working closely with Darling Associates and Glassolutions, Metalline produced a special bespoke support bracket to accommodate the 3D effect panels. These were pre-assembled in factory-controlled conditions to shorten installation time on site. Metalline also supplied a range of aluminium interlocking soffits in varying lengths and widths that create an eye-catching feature to each of the 8 storey balconies. Metalline has continued to invest in state-of-the-art machinery and has led the industry with having capacity to process material of up to 6.0metres, this includes a custom made 6.5metre vacuum bonding tent press, 6.0metre press brake and router beds. This investment has given Metalline the ability to offer solutions for designers and architects that previously were not available.

Sitting adjacent to Manchester Victoria station, the £185m New Victoria development is a two-phase scheme initially involving two residential towers of 20 and 25 storeys providing 520 one, two and three bed apartments. The second phase being a 13-storey office block. The façade concept is a ‘hooped envelope around a glass box’ with the ‘envelope’ consisting of vertical panels from the first floor to roof level. As with any reinforced concrete slab design, the project is at risk of punching shear failure. Which traditionally has been resolved by adding further concrete, such as downstand beams or localised thickened column heads. However these measures require complex formwork and significantly reduce the benefits of the flat slab design. By incorporating the Schöck Bole shear rail system – with its ready-to-install reinforcement element consisting of double-headed studs with spacing bars to ensure correct positioning – installation is cost-effective and significantly faster than traditional loose links. In fact, Shaun Farrell of Mayo Civils, the concrete frame contractor, comments: “We were pleased to find that by using the Bole shear rail system on the project, installation was four times faster than if we had used shear links.” Shaun goes on to explain that: “when using traditional links the installation time is increased because twelve ties are involved, six of which have to be tied to the bottom steel matt, which involves getting your hands between the rebar. With the Schöck Bole six-stud shear rail, it only involves two ties to the top matt”. 

David Bailey Furniture Systems (DBFS), a leading manufacturer of specialist healthcare fitted furniture, has been chosen to supply a wide range of new systems, as part of a major redevelopment at the Stroke Unit at Maidstone Hospital, managed by the Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust.The project, currently in Phase Two, aims to expand the unit's bed capacity and enhance its capabilities to deliver exceptional care to the community. DBFS is providing high-quality specialist fitted furniture, including thick bullnose fully moulded worktops, ABS lipped worktops, white adjustable spur shelving systems, together with various base, wall and drawer line units. DBFS is also transforming multiple spaces within the project, including the Ward Pantry, ASU Bed Bays, Reception and Office, Utility Cupboard, Equipment Store, Sister's Office, Consultants Office, and supplying & installing bespoke Staff Bases and Nurse Stations. These bespoke elements reflect DBFS's ability to adapt to the specific needs of each space, ensuring a seamless integration with the overall design and functionality of the unit."We are delighted to be a part of this important project and to play a role in enhancing the Stroke Unit at Maidstone Hospital," said Tony Huggins, Managing Director, David Bailey Furniture. "Our team is committed to providing high-quality fitted furniture that will create a healing environment for patients and staff alike."Once the refurbishment is complete, the new stroke unit at Maidstone Hospital, part of Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust will be significantly enhanced as a major facility for the local community. Patients will benefit from a carefully-designed unit that puts their needs first, providing a sturdy, hygienic, and attractive environment conducive to optimal recovery. Tim Fletcher, Estates Capital Project Officer at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust, said: “We have used DBFS for a number of years, either by direct award contracts or through third party contractors. The products they have supplied for our Stroke Unit refurbishment project are strong and robust, so are suited to a healthcare environment. Importantly, they also comply with current Health Technical Memorandums. We will continue to consider using DBFS products for future projects at the Trust.” DBFS's involvement began in November 2023 with the supply and installation of their extensive range of healthcare fitted furniture. Their team, working in collaboration with WW Martin Limited, has meticulously planned and executed the installation process. A testament to DBFS's adaptability was the creation of a central corridor through the site, enabling patients and staff to continue moving freely throughout the hospital during the refurbishment. This has minimised disruption helping staff to prioritise patient care."By working hand-in-hand with DBFS, we were able to seamlessly integrate the new furniture into the existing building," said Paul Ruddock, Special Projects Contracts Manager for WW Martin Limited. "Adapting to ever-changing needs is the cornerstone of healthcare facility design. The creation of the central corridor, in particular, exemplified the innovative spirit that allowed us to prioritise patient well-being even during a major refurbishment such as this." Architects for the project, Hazle McCormack Young (HMY), envisioned a modern, efficient space that would foster a healing environment. DBFS has responded to this challenge with its wide range of high-quality specialist fitted furniture.For David Bailey Furniture, its involvement in this project further underscores the company’s commitment to enhancing patient care and improving healthcare facilities wherever its products are specified and installed. For further information visit: www.davidbaileyfurniture.co.uk

Guilden Village is brand new to Guildford, offering 533 high-quality bed spaces accompanied with 1030 sq. m of student amenity space including a fitness boutique, sky lounge, and an indoor mini golf course: all revolving around student mental well-being.The space was designed and created by Future Generation to create the perfect home away from home for students who want something more. The scheme which has a GDV exceeding £102 million will help to deliver on the much-needed increase in quality student accommodation that Guildford requires to meet demand.A mixture of AG products were supplied throughout the project entirety with 60mm and 80mm Plaza (Salt, Pepper, Birkes, and Kardemon) and TerraPave Rimini Ground Flagstones being utilised across the scheme. Additionally, our TerraPave step units and Buff Corduroy were also added to further compliment the scheme. The combination of Plaza colours and sizes provides the complex with a beautiful vibrant modern look with the addition of TerraPave’s durable granite finish.Aneed Mohammed, AG’s Technical Specification Consultant stated, “We thoroughly enjoyed working with the design and whole project team at Guilden Village to provide specification support throughout the stages to ensure all appropriate products were utilised across the PBSA scheme. A wide range of high-quality granite-topped products were utilised with the further adoption of granite step units to continue the granite theme throughout the project in order to give the scheme the high-end appearance they required. Another project once again with a great showcase of our high-quality paving products”.

The new part of Sct. Hans hospital, designed by KHR Architecture and Rubow Arkitekter, is a beautiful example of the healing architecture of our time. The total 20,700 m² building contains a brand new forensic psychiatric department with 126 beds. The architecture is based on the beautiful surroundings in a hilly and varied terrain that slopes down towards Roskilde Fjord. The new part of St. Hans Forensic Psychiatry incorporates the surrounding nature into the architecture, where the location of the buildings is adapted to the landscape's topography, so that the buildings become part of the landscape and the landscape a part of the building. Throughout the project, there has been an intensive focus on creating healing architecture based on the latest knowledge in the field.Nature and light have a documented positive impact on patients' well-being and Sct. Hans is therefore built into the landscape in a way that ensures beautiful views both from patient rooms and corridors and common areas. There is never a view from one patient room to the other, and high-placed windows provide a view even for bedridden patients.Throughout the construction, nature has been thought of, where wood in both interior design and furniture creates a sense of homeliness, sensuousness, and presence. Nature is constantly drawn into the building via large windows and window sections from floor to ceiling. Outside, fantastic sensory gardens, outdoor activity areas as well as gardens and spaces for quietness and reflection have been created.Hudevad has delivered Our P5 Vertical in a beautiful, muted color for installation in the beautiful wooden panels that create warmth and coziness in many of the building's rooms. Our white P5 Vertical adorns many of the long corridors and ensures that the cold draft from the large windows is limited.

Knauf Airless Finish spray plaster has provided a flawless, sustainable interior wall finish and contributed to the BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating at the new unified breast unit at Ysbyty Ystrad Fawr Hospital.According to Aneurin Bevan University Health Board (ABUHB), the local health board of NHS Wales for Gwent, the breast units in its area are the busiest in Wales, seeing over 6,000 patients yearly.So, to better meet the healthcare needs of the people of Gwent and improve the quality of service and care for patients, ABUHB is building a new state-of-the-art unit in Ystrad Mynach that will bring together its breast cancer services.Leading the project development is BAM Construction with subcontractors, including Richard Kemble Contracts Ltd, who recommended using Knauf Airless spray instead of traditional methods, such as the full taping and jointing finish which was originally specified, or traditional gypsum plastering.Mathew Kemble, Director, Richard Kemble Contracts, explains: “I’ve completed several projects using Knauf Airless Spray Finish and have been impressed with its excellent application and finish, so I recommended we use it at the unified breast care unit. This project really showed the system’s value compared to a full taping and jointing finish in both time and money. Here, it worked out cost neutral as it didn’t require a primer sealer.”A traditional tape and jointing finish to BS 8000-8:2023 involves bedding paper joint tape into jointing compound, followed by two further stages of increasing widths of jointing compound (including drying time between each layer). A primer/sealer is then needed before a decorative finish. Knauf Airless Finish can be applied instead of the additional passes of jointing compound in line with BS 8000-8:2023, after bedding the Knauf Paper Joint tape and filling to shoulders of the taper, saving time and materials, with no primer necessary before spray applying Knauf Airless Finish.Applied internally to the plasterboard partitions at the new centre, Knauf Airless Finish is a spray applied alternative to traditional gypsum plaster. The ready-mixed finish is quicker to install than traditional methods, provides a high-quality finish and brings significant health and safety benefits, including less dust inhalation due to it being pre-mixed, and less strain on the body.Mathew Kemble continues: “When you compare it to traditional plastering methods, it’s quicker to apply, and there are fewer defects, so it saves a lot of time on snagging. The end result is a high-quality, fine finish that’s far better than traditional methods.”Rhodri Price, Senior Site Manager, BAM Construction Ltd agrees, saying: “The quality of the finish combined with the speed was fantastic. From a health and safety point of view, there are fewer people on site and less sanding is required making for a safer site. It’s been really impressive on site and is something we’d definitely like to use going forwards.”A further benefit is that the product comes ready-mixed, which minimises water needed on site, compared to traditional gypsum plastering which uses around 1.15 litres of water per M², which has helped contribute to the centre’s ‘Excellent’ BREEAM rating.Due for completion in 2024, the new unified breast care unit will be a ‘centre of excellence’ for breast cancer, comprising diagnostic, treatment and counselling rooms, administrative and staff facilities, a reception and waiting area, a volunteer café, outside landscaped spaces and parking. The new purpose-built facility will be connected to the existing main Ysbyty Ystrad Fawr Hospital, which BAM Construction delivered in 2011, via a glazed link bridge.

Comfortable space created for parents and babies at university hospitalIssueLa Paz University Hospital in Madrid is a national centre of expertise in neonatal care. They wanted to transform the Neonatal Acute Unit, to allow families to stay together with their babies while they are receiving treatment and care. In total, 24 units were created to accommodate and make this visit more comfortable.ApproachA homely, family-friendly space was needed that was also hygienic and reduced the transfer of noise. Víctor de las Casas, Architect at EACSN studio, said: “We wanted to modernise the neonatology area: not only in terms of materials, but in the very “neonatal concept” of La Paz, which wants to encourage parents to be with their children in the most normal and welcoming way possible”.SolutionSandra Fuentes, Maintenance and Works Technician at La Paz said: “The professional high standards of the medical team had not been reflected in the quality of the neonatal unit, and that was frustrating.” The flooring needed to be able to cope with foot traffic, hospital beds, trolleys and wheelchairs. It also needed good looks and design flexibility. The hospital team opted for robust Altro Operetta flooring, which provides 4dB impact sound reduction, comfort underfoot and ease of cleaning.Altro Operetta is a robust floor perfect for medium to high traffic areas and is easy to clean and maintain. Designed in line with the Bauhaus ethos that style is as important as function, it has multiple attractive, natural colours and finishes to fit in your interior design scheme."Altro Operetta gives the same warm feeling that carpet does, but also provides safety to both staff and patients." Sandra Fuentes Maintenance and Works Technician, La Paz University Hospital"Basically, all the technical issues have been resolved and the floor has provided more comfort for families staying in the unit." Víctor de las Casas Architect, EACSN Studio

Yeoman Shield’s new Guardian Twin Handrail was installed as part of the ward refurbishment project recently undertaken at Barnsley Hospital, South Yorkshire.A 350+ bed hospital built in the 1970’s and serving a quarter of a million people in the Barnsley area, the hospital demands a constant regime of maintenance throughout its premises.Maintaining its high standards, Barnsley Hospital have improved the surroundings and facilities in 6 of the hospital wards, including the discharge unit, female trauma and elective orthopaedic unit.As part of the refurbishment project Yeoman Shield were employed to remove the old bump rail and handrails and replace them with the dual purpose Guardian Twin Handrail to corridors and waiting areas throughout the 6 wards.The twin handrail was supplied with a 50mm dia. PVCu upper handrail for support to those who need it and a lower 125mm deep protection rail which, standing slightly forward of the handrail, offers protection to both the wall décor and the handrail itself, minimising on repair and replacement.Supplied in a Pastel Blue colour with contrasting accessories in Pebble Grey the Guardian Twin Handrail from Yeoman Shield was complemented with matching 200mm protection strip and corner protection angles.A member of the nursing staff on the discharge unit commented: “Previously down the corridors in this ward we just had a protection rail but now it has been replaced with a system that offers a handrail as well and we have found it a great help to our clients who attend the unit.”Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust commented that they have worked with Yeoman Shield previously and have always found their products and workmanship to be of a high standard.For further details and options on the Yeoman Shield Guardian Twin handrail and the new Guardian 50mm dia. Handrail range go to www.yeomanshield.com/handrails or call 0113 279 5854.

St Leonard’s Hospital160 SASH WINDOWS REPAIRED & DRAUGHT-PROOFED AT GRADE II LISTED HOSPITAL BUILDING IN LONDONThe project involved a total of 160 sash windows requiring renovation at the historic premises of St Leonard’s Hospital in Hackney, on Nuttall Street. As part of the scope of works, the sash windows were surveyed, renovated, draught-proofed and had new ironmongery fitted.Ventrolla’s window restoration formed part of a larger refurbishment scheme at St Leonard’s which was implemented by Castons of Ipswich and lasted six months.The Grade II Listed hospital building dates back to 1866 and by 1872 had been extended to provide beds for 503 patients.It played an important role during the Second World War caring for air raid casualties and suffered bomb damage itself in 1941. St Leonard’s stopped receiving in-patients in 1984 and today is used as a home for various district services, including physiotherapy, chiropody, a disability resource centre and a diabetic day centre. It is now administered by the Homerton University Hospital Foundation Trust.A spokesperson for Ventrolla, said:“The condition of the windows varied enormously. Some just needed re-glazing or minor repairs to the window frame, while others needed a complete overhaul.We had to be flexible in the way we worked because the hospital remained operational throughout the project. In some cases, for example when repairing windows in a consultation room, we opted to stay late or come in over a weekend in order to reduce disruption.”Do you deal with commercial projects that have a need for period sash window renovation?Our commercial services include detailed surveys & estimates in line with your window schedule, project management, CAD drawings, help with Listed Building Consent (LBC) and we offer a CPD presentation that is RIBA approved.You can speak to our commercial team about your project on 0800 0277 454, email info@ventrolla.co.uk or by uploading your tender documents here.

Castle Hill Hospital, at Cottingham near Hull, is defending busy areas of the hospital interiors from impact damage with the help of Yeoman Shield protection products.Serving the population of Hull and the East Riding of Yorkshire, the hospital has approximately 370 beds and caters for the majority of the trusts elective activity as well as housing the award- winning Queen’s Centre for Oncology and Haematology.The refurbishment of the Plastic Surgery Outpatients ground floor corridors and First floor I.C.U. corridors saw Yeoman Shield 200mm protection rail installed. The rails are fitted on a 60mm PVC “stand-off” spacers allowing them to be utilised as a handrail for those requiring it.A strengthening solid inner core ensures the rail is capable of taking the heaviest of blows from motorised or wheeled trolleys and equipment saving the wall from structural damage and marking.The vulnerable corners and terminating ends of the rail are equally protected from impact with the addition of Yeoman Shield’s new rubber, hardwearing and durable stop ends and wall return accessories.The busy catering department and corridors were also suffering from impact damage caused by the movement of the catering trolleys, food warmers and equipment. To combat costly damage to the décor Yeoman Shield 200mm protection rail has again been installed this time “flat-back” to the wall.For a hygienic yet protective finish to the walls Yeoman Shield smooth food grade wall panels were installed from floor to ceiling with extra defence in the form of the 200mm protection rail.All Yeoman Shield products were installed by directly employed Yeoman Shield fixing operatives ensuring an efficient and accurate first time fit.“The work carried out to corridors and catering department was undertaken with due consideration of each busy section of the hospital and to suit their working arrangements, including any out of hours working. All went very well and each department commented on how well the work went and how good the improvement is” Alan Parry, Estates Officer (Building).

Following the specification process with the London office of Planit-IE Landscape Architects, Artform Urban Furniture were appointed by Vastint UK to provide a considerable number of bespoke concrete benches alongside street furniture elements including litter bins, cycle parking and picnic sets to a newly built neighbourhood in the east of London. At the time one of the largest residential developments in Europe.The bespoke concrete block benches, some of which are clad in hardwood toppers, were designed and manufactured specifically for this project, echoing the light reflective architecture of the newly built studios and apartments. Great lengths were taken to find the perfect mix of aggregates to achieve the specifiers preferred colour mix and match paving being used on site. Sample blocks in the concrete and granite were supplied with & without timber toppers to make sure all stakeholders were happy with the final look/ colour. Stainless steel cycle stands are abundantly scattered around the car-free space, encouraging a peaceful and emission free environment. Likewise the sophisticated minimal design of the Spencer litter bin reflects the surrounding ambiance whilst keeping the area clean and tidy.The 26 acre project to revitalise this once-crumbling industrial site began back in 2013. Garnering widespread attention for its simplistic and sustainable design.The entire neighbourhood is divided into 13 plots, each designed by one of nine different architects.The Dane’s Yard area is the first completed phase of the Vastint UK master plan in bringing a brand new neighbourhood to London. The name of the area, Strand East, was changed to Sugar House Island in 2017 with Vastint looking for a name that has stronger ties to the community and its history. The sentiment is evident throughout the project in the refurbishing of old warehouse buildings, yards, and alleyways.Once completed in 2024 Sugar House Island will feature more than 624,000 square feet of office space, 1,200 homes, and nearly 131,000 square feet of green space. Developers have also made room for new restaurants, cafés, shops, a primary school, and a 350-bed hotel. Developers expect the project to create 2,500 new jobs.

Ten Traffic Street is a 522-bed student accommodation serving luxury living located on a prominent site within Nottingham City Centre. The project was delivered by Jensco and offers excellent amenities such as a cinema, games room, study spaces, onsite coffee shop, indoor and outdoor Gyms and multiple outdoor communal spaces including a roof terrace. Artform Urban worked closely with the Landscape architects, Ares Landscape to provide a substantial package of premium external furniture to ensure the high-end finish extends to the outdoor spaces. The complex is spread across 2 buildings with courtyards and one roof terrace overlooking the city. In total, there are 4 external spaces - each has its own identifiable aesthetic which is driven by the building fascias and window frame colouring which is then reflected in the outdoor furniture.The roof terrace is surrounded by a large Inspira Modular Planting System installation powder-coated in a unique Khaki Grey - bringing colour and natural benefits to the space. The planters house plants and small trees that provide dappled shade to ensure residents can enjoy the terrace on hotter days. Tables, benches, and a Box Litter Bin all in a coordinated colour palette, provide social seating and dining spaces and vibrant plastic Chill Lounger’s and Hop Op 500’s offer a more casual seating option for residents.The ground floor courtyards feature a continuation of benches and Box litter bins - with all steelwork powder coated in a specific colour for each space. An external gym has been provided in the larger courtyard and features two Endurance Wellness Stone installations. These unique sculptural pebbles include stainless steel fixtures to accommodate a variety of exercises. This is the first installation in the UK of these products that are part of a wider range of premium external gym equipment named MyEquilibria. This unique fitness range aims to redefine the workout experience by combining art, high-end design and community. As final additions to the spaces Artform Urban provided an extensive bike parking package as well as Fuente Drinking Fountain’s to encourage students to cycle and reduce plastic waste. 

EverEdge Titan used to path the new perennial paradise at RHS Garden WisleyRHS Garden Wisley’s iconic Glasshouse Borders are being sympathetically redesigned into a perennial paradise by the internationally acclaimed landscape designer Piet Oudolf, who designed the original borders more than 20 years ago. The redesigned garden newly named “The Oudolf Landscape” will be defined by Piet’s signature ‘New Perennial’ style and will be one of the largest and most significant examples of Piet’s work seen in the UK. The Oudolf Landscape aims to transform the borders into a more contemporary and sustainable landscape and will boast a significantly more complex planting scheme with a key focus on resilience to climate change and benefits to wildlife. The large irrigated turfed path will be replaced with curved paths that will lead visitors among bold drifts of naturally self-supporting herbaceous perennials and grasses, while retaining much-loved views of Wisley’s Glasshouse. Blakedown Landscapes was selected as the principal contractor and has been working collaboratively with the RHS Garden Wisley team to bring Piet’s design to life. The team at Blakedown took great care in grading and preparing the new beds ready for planting, as well as installing new self-binding gravel footpaths. They used our EverEdge Titan steel landscape edging to create the curved paths through the landscape.Available in a variety of depths, thicknesses and finishes, Titan is the go-to product for where a strong and flexible edge is required in all areas of landscaping from traditional parterre’s, long sinuous pathways, driveways and more. Titan has proved to be the perfect choice for RHS Garden Wisley where the steel can be quickly and easily manipulated to create the long meandering paths, whilst the inconspicuous appearance of the steel edge once installed will blend seamlessly into the landscape. The end result will be a steel edge that is easy to maintain and not distracting to the eye allowing for the new perennial planting to be the undivided focus.  Work on the remodelling started in the Autumn of 2023 with the plan of reopening to the public in Summer 2024. For more information about RHS Garden Wisley and the new Oudolf Landscape, please visit www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley. 

Sort Trae is a new build Passivhaus set in a steeply sloping site in Thurgoland, Barnsley. The owner is a former architect and designed the scheme up to planning. HEM Architects were commissioned to turn the design intent into an ultra-low energy and comfortable home and to administer the contract on site. The house is a 2-bed home, with the lower storey set into the hill. There is an attached weaving studio where the owner works. The house takes advantage of the beautiful views to the south and is a bold, contemporary home clad in black timber and open jointed stone.The rooflights set on top of the studio are a key part of the roof, visible from the entrance to the site and the house. Their crisp design met the architects desire for an elegant and unfussy roofscape.FAKRO flat roof windows were chosen for their thermal performance and the performance of the integrated kerbs.Paul Testa, Director at HEM Architects told us, “We have always specified FAKRO on our projects where possible. They have always led the market in terms of thermal performance and there is excellent technical support”.The FAKRO windows used were: 2 x FAKRO DXF-DU6 02K flat roof window – 600 x 900mm unit size 1 x FAKRO DXF-DU6 11k flat roof window – 1200 x 2200mm unit size 1 x FAKRO DXF-DU8 04k flat roof window – 800 x 800mm unit size Paul added, “We enjoy working with FAKRO and find that the products are delivered to site very well packaged and are very easy to install. Working directly with the manufacturer rather than builders’ merchants also means the contractor has much better manufacturer support should they need it”.HEM Architects is a practice of 10 staff, based in Sheffield. They have a reputation for Passivhaus design and gaining planning on difficult sites.The practice is on a mission to help everyone live in beautiful, practical homes that have minimal impact on our planet. They specialise in creative, sustainable residential architecture. Taking inspiration from the mess and joy of everyday life, they design homes for living and that delight every day.

The Pride development is a £60 million investment which includes a new 122 bed hospital being built on the former Ryhope Hospital site in Sunderland. Laing O’Rourke, the main contractors of this project, specified Polyroof waterproofing systems for the flat roof areas.Barclay Roofing Ltd carried out the works, having previously worked with Laing O’Rourke on the 2013 Roofing Award Winning Durham Gateway Project.The SolutionThe roofs were of a complex nature and involved many details such as vents, level changes, handrail abutments, plant supports, protrusions, stanchion blocks, and parapet walls. It was essential that these details could be waterproofed in the most effective and rapid way possible. Protec, being liquid-applied, was dressed onto the upstands of the details without the need for lengthy and complicated ‘patching’ work, creating a totally seamless interface between the details and the flat roof membrane.The client required designated, permanent walkways for maintenance purposes. Quartz Sand & Polyfinish was used to create a durable and hard-wearing anti-slip finish, without the need for costly ancillary walkway systems. The system is capable of withstanding heavy foot traffic and is impact resistant meaning the client had peace of mind that the walkways can be used without the risk of damaging the waterproofing integrity. Some of the roof areas are to be covered with a green roof system. The waterproofing membrane that was used therefore had to be highly durable, lightweight, fully root resistant and maintenance-free. The Protec System meets all the criteria for use with green roofs and was specified as the ideal solution for the green roof areas.It was essential that health & safety and hazard risks were kept to an absolute minimum during works. Being cold applied and low in VOC content, Protec was able to satisfy the stringent requirements of this aspect of the project.Due to the size of the roof areas, structural expansion and contraction movements had to be considered. Ideally the client wanted a waterproofing system that could accommodate these movements without the need for any additional and potentially costly modifications such as expansion joints. Protec is specially formulated to be highly flexible whilst also maintain its durability and hard-wearing properties.

Tudor House was opened as the offices for Hatfield Rural District Council by the Marquess of Salisbury in 1930. A grand old building, it was built in a Georgian style with a host of period features.When its purpose as a public administration building was over, a proposal for a conversion (material change of use) into apartments was put forward by Lioncrest. Whilst not a listed building, they proposed to retain all of the period features and, where time had taken its toll on the building fabric, restore and renovate the brickwork and stonework back to its former glory.Permission has been given to convert the offices into seven new luxury apartments comprising of four two bedroom apartments and three one bed apartments. The largest apartment was constructed in the roof space which entailed reconstructing the existing roof incorporating two large dormer windows and five roof lights. The building includes a large basement which was converted into stores for the occupants and for each of the apartments to have an allocated car parking space.Lioncrest consulted with Hush Acoustics at the design stage of this development for soundproofing advice and assistance with the design, specification and supply of the materials needed.There were a number of design issues to take into account due to the history of the building and the period features. Our soundproofing experts worked closely with Lioncrest to develop the most economical and convenient acoustic system to achieve the high results sought. The detailed and careful installation of the Hush materials allowed some fantastic sound reducing results giving the owners of the apartments a very good standard of living.A variety of products were combined to achieve the necessary sound reduction throughout the building’s separating floors, ceilings and walls. These included Hush Panel Cem 28, Hush Slab 100 Sound Absorber, Hush Seal 20 perimeter strip, Hush Bond Panel Adhesive, Hush MF Ceiling System and Hush Acoustic Hangers.Through detailed planning from Lioncrest with regard to the schedule, Hush Acoustics were able to deliver all acoustic materials to site ensuring that the deadline for completion was met. 

Qbic Manchester, the fourth property in the Qbic portfolio, mixes striking design with admirable eco-credentials and affordability to deliver a truly eclectic destination hotel. Working with Qbic’s own interior designers and contractor, MY Construction, Style was specified to create flexible space in the hotel’s meeting rooms whilst also complementing the breath-takingly chic decor.Finished in a stunning steel blue, the two identical Dorma Hüppe Variflex glass moveable walls incorporate telescopic end panels, giving a truly aesthetic finish. With 52dB acoustic integrity and semi-automatic operation the walls can be quickly manoeuvred into place, dividing or opening out the meeting areas to meet the demands of the day.Combining a stylish crittall effect with a reeded manifestation added to the glass to match the room’s fixed glazing, these moveable partitioning walls not only add flexibility to the hotel’s space but also enhance the overall interior design.Qbic has reinvented the concept of affordable hotels, by focusing on what matters to its stylish, savvy, environmentally responsible guests. Located on the lively Deansgate strip, the Manchester hotel offers 261 pet-friendly rooms, boasts comfortable king-sized beds, has high-speed WiFi, plus water-efficient power showers and sustainable toiletries.“This hotel oozes the ‘wow’ factor,” said Andy Gibson, Style’s director for the North.“The moveable walls are effortless to manoeuvre, enabling hotel staff to create either three separate meeting rooms, one large and one small room, or open up the entire area."Semi-automatic operation ensures the acoustic seals are always applied to exactly the right pressure, offering high levels of privacy when meetings are in progress. The Qbic design team’s vision of a blue steel finish in this vibrant environment was truly inspiring and something we were proud to be able to deliver.”Style is the UK market leader in moveable, folding and partitioning walls and its glass range has expanded this year with a complete range of acoustic and non-acoustic solutions – each with manual, semi-automatic or fully automatic operation.