"birds"

A flagship bird hide that provides panoramic views over London has been given a new lease of life with Sadolin Classic. Providing an urban oasis for wildlife and people the London Wetland Centre - located just 10 minutes from Hammersmith - is managed by conservation charity the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT). A landmark building on the site is the Peacock Hide, a three storey structure which is frequented by a range of visitors from experienced birders through to those new to wildlife watching. The hide also offers a great resource to provide visitors with memorable sightings of key species.

The merger of two primary schools in south London meant one of the school buildings would be retaining and upgraded to facilitate the combined 380+ students in the 3-11 age range.The newly formed Bird in Bush Primary School is Southwark’s newest school, which has been adapted to accommodate an increased number of children to ensure their needs are met, and that the learning environment is inclusive for all.One of the ways the school was adapted prior to opening for the autumn term was to create the right acoustic conditions inside one of the classrooms for a student with special educational needs (SEN), who was moving from Coburg School. The child’s condition meant that they were more susceptible to the adverse effects of noise resulting from reverberation and echo, which could potentially have an impact on their learning outcomes.The child’s parents felt this was a particularly important issue to address given that their child was entering Year 6, which they believed would be more significant than previous school years and more stressful. The acoustic treatment deployed involved the installation of Hush Absorber 50 sound absorber panels. These products were previously installed in the school's large dining hall to reduce high levels of background noise and echo.The aim was to calculate the current reverberation time (RT), the time taken for the sound pressure level from the original sound to drop by 60dB after it stops, and work out how much absorption would be needed to bring this in line with the requirements of BB93.The solution provided by Hush involved the manufacture and installation of 40x Hush Absorber 50 panels, which were sized 1200 x 600 x 50mm and covered in a fabric coloured in a neutral tone to blend seamlessly with the classroom’s main colour. These were fitted onto the soffit of the classroom’s sloping ceiling which was important to ensure the walls could continue to be used for notice boards and other displays.Prior to their installation, the RT was measured at 3.8s and following the upgrade the reduction in reverberation is evident in the fact that this figure is now 0.8s. This was the lowest figure possible given the available space for the sound absorber panels on the soffit.Disruption to teaching was completely avoided because the Hush Absorber 50 panels were fitted in just one day during the summer holiday closure of the school.

Project: Solina observation tower and gondola stationClient: PKL and PFR GroupsThe Prime Minister of Poland, Mateusz Morawiecki, hailed the opening of a new observation tower and gondola lift in the Bieszczady Mountains as an investment that will strengthen the magnetism of Solina, a major tourist hotspot.At the opening, Morawiecki remarked how Solina is a beautiful place where nature is untouched by the human hand*. The picturesque holiday destination in South East Poland is famous for its forest-covered peaks and vast open water, home to the largest artificial lake in the country.These surroundings make Solina equally as popular with birds as it is for tourists. The area is home to 130 species of birds, including eagles, hawks, sparrowhawks, smews, black terns and songbirds; while also being located on a main migratory route.Protecting Solina’s bird population was therefore a top priority for the two groups behind the tourist attraction, the PKL Group (Polish Cableways), which provide sustainable mountain tourism services, and the PFR Group (The Polish Development Fund), a state-owned financial group which invests in sustainable social development, who paid close attention to the needs of bird species throughout the design and construction phases.They turned to specialist glass for the gondola station and the observation tower to help protect its feathered neighbours.Glass designed to protect birdsPilkington AviSafe™, an innovative glass designed to protect birds, was specified for the project’s glazing. Its unique patterned UV enhanced coating disrupts the reflection on the glass, helping birds to see a clear barrier.Jason Eggerton, UK specifications manager at Pilkington United Kingdom Limited, part of the NSG Group, explained: “Experts distinguish three effects leading to birds colliding with glass.“The mirror effect is where birds mistake the glass’ reflection as reality. Corners of buildings or narrow passageways can also lead to collisions as they allow birds to see the habitat on the other side of the building. Thirdly, the fly-through effect is where birds may also not see the transparent barrier and aim to fly into a building to a perching spot, such as within an atrium.“The gondola station and observation tower are surrounded by forests making bird collisions due to reflections of the trees a particular risk. Ultimately Pilkington AviSafe™ disrupts these reflections making the glass more visible”The coating is designed on the principle that birds see in a different light range to people, making Pilkington AviSafe™ glass more visible to birds while remaining aesthetically appealing on the exterior surface. From the inside however, it’s barely visible to the human eye.It was used in the large, modern glass facades of the gondola station in combination with Pilkington Suncool™ 70/35 and Pilkington Optilam™ glass, which ensures effective thermal insulation, solar control and safety.The Pilkington AviSafe™ glass was manufactured at the Merseyside manufacturing site of Pilkington United Kingdom Limited, part of the NSG Group, in St Helens.Jason Eggerton continued: “Making buildings truly sustainable goes beyond emissions and energy efficiency. Architects and specifiers increasingly need to consider how their projects impact local wildlife too.“Pilkington AviSafe™ has clear value amidst nature reserves, forests and mountains in Solina. But many of the world’s major cities are located on bird migratory paths, where tall, glazed buildings can increase the chance of collisions.“We’re proud to support a project of such high prestige and economic significance in Poland, and to play our part helping Solina’s tourism industry to maintain its minimal impact on nature and local wildlife.”

Meadowside is a small development of 23 eco-lodge holiday homes in St. Columb, Cornwall. The lodges are in the beautiful North Cornwall countryside. The area is teeming with wildlife, including a large variety of birds, rabbits, foxes and deer. The lodges are available all year round and benefit from unspoilt views of the surrounding hills and valleys. We supplied Gripsure Premier non-slip decking for a number of lodges. It was also used to deck the outdoor space surrounding the lodges, including steps, access ramps and hot tub areas, ensuring safe access for residents over the seasons. Income from the two- and three-bedroom holiday homes supports the neighbouring Cornish Birds of Prey Centre and Animal Park.

Walton Court Gardens by BroadwayMalyan and Gillespies for Crest Nicholson is a substantial project offering 375 new homes in Walton-on-Thames on the site of the former Birds Eye headquarters. Walton Court pays homage to the site’s original building by echoing the prior site half hexagonal aluminium facade in its full-height angled facade, evoking the original pattern. The central “jewel” building is sat amongst the surrounding buildings clad in Freshfield Lane’s Danehill Yellows. Sunlight bounces from the centre building offering an ever-changing facade through shadow and light. Streets built for the project will be planted alongside new and existing trees to create harmony between the landscape and architectural vernacular. The project draws on influences from the Birds Eye master plan and retains its strong sense of geometry while ensuring that the site is pedestrian friendly and easy to navigate for its new residential community.

Over 1,200m² of Protan SE 1.2mm PVC single-ply membrane was installed in the Protan Vacuum roof system at Butlins Splashworld, Skegness. The roof system required no mechanical restraint or adhesives (except for around the roof perimeter and penetrations), as it relies upon the wind to keep the membrane in place with the help of Protan vacuum vents installed at locations designed by Protan's Technical Services Department. William Bird of Protan partner roofing contractor, Roofdec Ltd, commented, "Protan's vacuum roof system is quicker to install than conventional fully-adhered or mechanically-fixed systems."

Surespan is increasingly being asked to provide specialist glazed access and ventilation solutions. Project:The architects working on a project at Stratton House in London, approached Surespan to design and manufacture a“bird wing” style, double-leaf glazed ventilator with concealed operating gear from below. Surespan was chosen for its expertise in producing bespoke products.Product:The operation of each leaf ensured maximum airflow into the building below and smoke release in the event of a fire. Measuring 2500 x 2000mm and polyester powder coated white to match existing building roof furniture.

The Custard Factory, built around a century ago to manufacture Sir Alfred Bird’s famous dessert, has recently been revamped into an arts and media quarter for Birmingham. Specialist subcontractors DSM Flooring were looking for a quality floor access solution to install in the highly trafficked entrance atrium in the development. Howe Green supplied the 5000 Series Light Duty Floor Access Cover to provide easy and safe access to the essential building services concealed under the flooring within the atrium. The 5000 Series cover lay flush with the flooring to prevent any slips or trips.

Elephant Park is part of a £2.3 billion regeneration project in Elephant & Castle. It comprises a mixed-use development of 3000 new homes and up to 50 shops /retail units all centred around a new 2-acre park. Bolton Gate assisted the Architect with the design of a large electric Multi-Fold Gate to the Service Bay which consists of twelve equal leaves each constructed from an SHS frame with 50 x 10mm vertical steel fins and internal mesh to prevent the ingress of birds. Matching cladding and balustrades completed the elevation all of which were powder coated black.

For two existing units, a delicate garden terrace pavilion provides additional kitchen dining space and outdoor utility.Project BreakdownThe pavilion is set inside a planted terrace with special focus put on complimenting the existing structure with a delicate palette of materials.Customer FeedbackPioneer Granite Composite Decking set a muted charcoal backdrop for a stage of vibrant vegetation. The sustainable credentials of the materials reflect the harmony of the natural overgrowth and the use of Manticore plastic lumber and MESA Decking Pedestals ensured quick and easy installation.Project DetailsSize: 75 m²Product: Granite Hyperion DeckingSubstructure: Manticore Plastic Lumber, MESA Adjustable Decking PedestalsClient: Birds Portchmouth Russum ArchitectsLocation: London

When charity, Small Steps, secured its new home at the heart of Richmond, it required a warm and welcoming interior environment that would support children living with physical disabilities and their families. Providing the perfect natural canvas, Forbo Flooring Systems' linoleum brand, Marmoleum, was installed throughout the purpose built facility. Spread over three floors of a former office building on Worple Way, the 517 m² site that Small Steps now calls home, was funded through a generous donation. The entire design team – which included JTP Architects, Robert Bird & Partners, MTT Consultants, ISG Ltd, PIP Building Services and P2 Design – worked together, many on a pro bono or reduced fee basis to complete the refurbishment for the charity.

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

The Pavilions comprise of seven residential buildings alongside the railway, providing a mix of 156 one, two and three bedroom sustainable homes with 35% affordable housing. As a site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC), this 'Development of the Year’ maximises the residential capacity without compromising the nature conservation designation. This is achieved by incorporating an educational nature trail and bird hide, with generous open spaces planted with trees, green roofs to encourage biodiversity, and solar panels. Cellecta’s ScreedBoard 20 was specified by Jestico + Whiles as it is a dry light weight Robust Detail solution compatible with Metec System LGS system, and the ideal overlay floorboard for acoustic application incorporating underfloor heating applications due to its high thermal conductivity. This enables the system to run more efficiently, saving on running costs and improving reaction times.Telford Homes was awarded this 14,350m² contract for this development at Caledonian Road in Islington.

Located on the edge of Cambridge’s De Freville Conservation Area, Clare College’s St Regis site has provided accommodation for postgraduate students of the University of Cambridge for over fifty years. In recent times, the need for regeneration became clear and Freeland Rees Roberts Architects was appointed to design a new scheme. The practice worked closely with Vandersanden, selecting brick as the principal element of the attractive new facades.While the old buildings failed to fit into the surrounding urban context and lacked the facilities required, the new scheme provides more and improved student accommodation for the college together with market flats. To achieve this successfully in a residential area, it was vital to consider the massing and perceived scale of the buildings. Consequently, the volumes were broken down to feel more like a series of big houses than large residential blocks.Clearly of a confident, contemporary design, the buildings respect their surroundings, repairing and maintaining the rhythm of the street scene. In large part, this is due to the choice of bricks and the splitting of the facades into separate gables with slopping roofs. Vandersanden’s Majestic and Luna Apollo facing bricks were selected and contribute to the detailing of the facades.“There is plenty of life and colour variation in the bricks,” explains Alexander Hobohm, director at Freeland Rees Roberts Architects. “This assists in breaking down the overall massing of the facades and works well with the dark zinc of the roofs.”The bricks act to soften the appearance of the facades and link the context of the new and neighbouring buildings. The beige grey Majestic brick predominates with the darker grey Luna Apollo providing detailing. It forms the plinth that anchors the buildings while a soldier course of Majestic bricks above provides the transition to the main body of the walls. At the junction with the zinc roof, the detailing is subtle with the transition provided by stepped courses of the Luna Apollo. Panels of projecting brick headers are a further feature, introduced to add a textural quality that brings light and shade to the facades.“The brick’s colour, tone and texture were qualities that other manufacturers couldn’t offer,” says Hobohm. “Usefully, Vandersanden invited us to see a number of projects using the same bricks which was so much more helpful than relying just on sample panels.”Another contributory factor to the look is the choice of mortar. This was specified to create a natural, lime mortar-like appearance and was achieved by fully pointing and, after the initial set, brushing back; there are no struck joint lines.A defining feature of the front facade is the public art. The college commissioned a carving featuring swifts in flight, inspired by the birds that were in residence in the original buildings. Swift boxes have been integrated into the new facades to provide a home for these beautiful birds. Using hand tools and following trials, stonemasons carved some 5-10mm into the face of the brickwork to create the design. A breathable paint finish was applied to highlight the indentations - a single bird at the very top is gold-leafed.  For Hobohm, working with Vandersanden was a positive, supportive and proactive process. “It was very straightforward. Early on, Vandersanden supplied product and technical information, plus a batch of the two brick types, enabling us to create sample panels. The bricks helped deliver the project vision and the client is delighted. It’s now one of the college’s signature buildings and has already won several awards.” To find out more about the bricks used in this project or to see the wide range of high-quality bricks available from Vandersanden, click on the 'View more' link 

ESSENZA HOME opts for a sustainable green façadeInterior and lifestyle brand ESSENZA HOME has moved into a new, completely renovated office in Bunnik in 2021. The new office is entirely sustainability-oriented. The Mobilane green façade at Essenza Home contributes to the company’s sustainability vision and provides a warm welcome for its retailers, customers, and staff. Family business ESSENZA HOME has been designing, producing, and distributing home & living products to suit various interior styles for 60 years. In 2021, the company moved to a new office in Bunnik. The building of no less than 2500 m2 is located directly on the A12 motorway. The new premises was built with an eye to the future and aligned with their sustainability vision. Therefore, the sustainable green Mobilane façade was a logical choice.Installation of the green façadeThe installation of the green walls was quick and easy. The green walls, with a total surface area of over 200 square meters, were placed against the stone and wooden façade by means of Magnelis steel omega profiles. The design incorporated the window and door sections and the water and electricity pipes.The almost 10,000 plants are installed in modular cassettes and pixels attached to the profiles. All of the cassettes, pixels, and covers are made of a fire-retardant EPP (B-s2, d0). This material is light, UV-resistant, air-permeable (for good root growth), and fully recyclable. An automated irrigation system provides the MobiPanel green walls with water and nutrients.Plant selection for the green façadeThe plants in the green facades were selected according to various factors. The orientation of the façade, the different flowering seasons, plants that stimulate biodiversity, and, finally, aesthetics were all considered. For example, Bregenis ‘Bressingham White’ is a beautiful spring bloomer with elegant white flowers that bloom from April onwards. The Vinca minor is a strong evergreen covering plant. It also flowers very early in spring. Vinca minor can be used on facades in both sunny and shady spots. The Vinca will produce more flowers in the sun than in the shade. Geranium Rozanne is a carrier plant for wild bees. Many species of wild bees, as well as butterflies and bumblebees, find their nectar here.Advantages of the green façadeThe green wall on the two outer walls is a real eye-catcher. Floor Smits, Head of Brands and second generation in the family business: “As a family business, we find it important to focus on the long term. During the renovation, we, therefore, invested heavily in sustainable solutions. When we were introduced to the possibility of a vertical garden for the façade, we were immediately enthusiastic. The green wall has many advantages, such as purifying the air, increasing biodiversity, and providing a nice haven for bees and other insects. Finally, we want to make a statement and show that we are committed to a sustainable world.” In addition to the office, there is also a b2b showroom and a brand store will be opened for consumers this year.Increased biodiversityRosalie Smits, Head of Channels and also the second generation of the family business, indicates that biodiversity is an important spearhead for the organization.The green façade attracts many insects, thus stimulating biodiversity in the area. As described earlier, the flowers of Geranium Rozanne, among others, provide nectar for many insects such as the wild bee and butterflies. Wild bees and butterflies are an important link in our food chain. They provide 60% of the pollination of our fruit and vegetables.The facades also attract various birds and other insects and serve both as food and as nesting and hiding places. In the cassettes between the plants, birds can nest safely. The first bird’s nest in the green façade at Essenza Home was found just a few weeks after installation.Client: ESSENZA HOMEArchitect: BK PuntConstruction period: 2021Installation: MobiCare

Made-to-measure satin-brushed stainless steel worktops and sinks from GEC Anderson have been used to enhance the light and contemporary spaces they are situated in at Brockholes Nature Reserve near Preston, Lancashire.The nature reserve was formed over 10 years out of a former gravel quarry, with a range of habitats added to existing woodlands and water, carefully crafted to attract different species of birds, animals, fish and plant life. The project is the winner of 2 Civic Trust Awards and has achieved the new and highest rating of sustainability, BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ for interim design stage.Owned by the National Wildlife Trust, Brockholes combines a visitor centre with a 67-hectare nature reserve funded by the North West Regional Development Agency. Brockholes is one of the best sites in the UK for many species of birds and different habitats have been created throughout the area to encourage them and other wildlife to visit the siteThe buildings and open spaces form a village-like cluster, floating on a large pontoon and include various facilities such as a café, gift shop and information area. The kitchenette is situated in the conference centre, which is available for hire by companies and individuals for private functions. The small kitchen space is used for general washing up tasks as well as for the storage of crockery and cutlery, includes two GEC Anderson made-to-measure brushed-satin stainless steel sinktops. Designed to fit the compact space available, the stainless steel worktops combine robust functionality with their professional and attractive appearance.The Education Classroom is situated in the Visitor Village and accommodates up to 60 people. It is used for school and adult education activities during term time and family activities during school holidays. A single piece, 3.5 metre, GEC Anderson made-to-measure brushed-satin stainless steel sinktop is located within this area, that includes a special 2.2 metre trough sink to a 180mm depth. This special trough sink is used for general wet activities and for cleaning of art and craft equipment. Kath Knight, Manager at Brockholes said, “Stainless steel provides clean lines and good looks in a modern classroom environment and compliments the surrounding building materials, which are mainly timber.”For the architect, it was also the obvious choice for this busy educational space, as it is hard wearing, hygienic, maintenance free and retains its original appearance over time. GEC Anderson was also chosen for their ability to provide the sinktop configurations to meet the design requirements.Managing Director of GEC Anderson, Martin Tye, comments: “This is a situation where practical requirements must be satisfied but where design and use of natural, balanced, honest materials are, equally, of importance. Stainless steel worktops tend to blend-in so well precisely because of their neutral appearance.”

Designed by architects Studio E, the BREEAM Excellent rated building features over 2,000 Ultima aluminium insulated panels in varying lengths and depths up to 4500mm and 800mm respectively, finished in four different RAL colours The company also supplied a range of ventilated Bird’s Beak style panels, pressings, copings and cills that further added to the overall aesthetic of the building’s façade. The Ultima aluminium insulated panels were designed, supplied and manufactured by Metalline Architectural Fabrications. Metalline has become one of the UK’s leading fabricators of specialist architectural fabrication in the UK, developing innovative solutions for a range of flagship projects. Finished in four different RAL colours – reed green, pastel green, light green and mint turquoise – the overall effect of the multi coloured, multi-dimensional panels is one of inspiration that sits perfectly with the ultimate goals of the Academy’s vision for its pupils future. Metalline’s Ultima aluminium insulated panels are extremely versatile and possess excellent acoustic, thermal and fire performance ratings. They are typically produced using class A1 non-combustible insulation core and can be adapted to fit a variety of facade details, which include the ability to be glazed into a standard curtain walling or structural glazing system. The panels can also be perforated and manufactured into a variety of shapes to meet the most challenging design criteria. Ultima aluminium insulated panels can be fabricated up to an impressive 6000mm in one length.

Case studiesAn artistic interpretation of multicultural interactionWith 3.5 million inhabitants, the region surrounding the Twin Cities of Saint Paul and Minneapolis is among the 20 largest metropolitan areas in the United States. The Mississippi separates the capital of Minnesota, Saint Paul, from Cedar-Riverside, which is also known as West Bank. Day by day, tens of thousands of people commute between these three communities to get to work, university or school. The state implemented a comprehensive municipal rail project to bring the 100-year-old infrastructure consisting of buses and congested roads into line with these requirements. A key element of this mammoth project is the so-called Central Corridor Light Rail Transit (CCLRT) with the transport hub West Bank Station. The AECOM firm of architects designed a two-story station at this location. To ensure protection from the sun, the building was provided with large-scale cladding in the form of Omega 1510 and 1550 metal fabrics from GKD – GEBR. KUFFERATH AG. Through etching and the addition of stainless steel birds, the shimmering façade was transformed into an expressive work of art that reflects the eventful immigration history of the region. Scandinavian immigrants sought a new life in the settlement on the upper stretch of the Mississippi in Minnesota, USA, in the middle of the 19th century. These initial settlements grew to become the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, which are today an important economic and cultural center in the Midwestern United States. As the manufacturing industry went from strength to strength, the region attracted increasing numbers of migrants from all over the world from the beginning of the 20th century onward. Today, the region is viewed as a melting pot of nations, where over 100 different languages are spoken. However, the rapid population growth also took the transport infrastructure of the densely populated area to its limits as early as the 1970s. As a result, planning work on the largest local transport project in the history of Minnesota began in 1981, which also comprised the Central Corridor Light Rail Transit with the METRO Green Line. Today, this connects the centers of the Twin Cities with several of the most populous areas in the conurbation, also crossing the Mississippi.A real eye-catcher: multifunctional solar protectionThe architectural firm AECOM, which was charged with the task of realization, concentrated not only on functionality and aesthetics, but also on public art when designing the stations. For the particularly well-frequented West Bank Station, they chose a solar protection façade made of GKD metallic fabric. The textile skin in front of the extensively glazed station reflects sunlight, thus preventing the two-story building from heating up excessively in summer. At the same time, its transparency grants unhindered views of the outside surroundings and also, through the interior lighting, from the outside in. This visibility conveys a feeling of subjective safety to passengers. Meanwhile, the high light transmission of the woven structure ensures a pleasant atmosphere and lots of natural light. Despite its intricate feel, the robust stainless steel fabric will withstand the adverse weather conditions that often prevail here with wind, rain, snow or frost for many years. The fabric even provides effective protection from the vandalism so often seen at public transport stops. What’s more, the material guarantees the cost-effectiveness required for transport buildings thanks to its durability and freedom from maintenance. The shimmering membrane couples this complex and broad range of functions with an extraordinary visual appearance: as a delicate veil, it follows the stepped architecture of West Bank Station and lends a sense of visual peace to its detailed façade. Spotlights fitted outside create targeted light effects that change according to the position of the viewer and thus give the transparent fabric an unexpectedly opaque appearance.Signs of life: a public work of artThis effect is given an additional dimension thanks to a creative interpretation by Nancy Blum, an artist, critic and art lecturer who is very well-known in the USA. The architects’ concept for three of the city stations for CCLRT included her integrated artworks. The woven stainless steel fabric skin at West Bank Station inspired Nancy Blum to create an artwork visualizing the eventful history of Cedar-Riverside as a transit point for people from many different nations. That’s why the metal fabric panels in front of the stairways were to be decorated with ethnic patterns, with designs reminiscent of the three main regions of origin of the immigrants – Scandinavia, Asia and Eastern Africa. GKD realized this artistic idea by means of etchings on the Omega 1510 fabric. The smooth upper surface and relatively dense structure of this fabric make it particularly well-suited for this procedure, in which the fabric surface is modified slightly. On the basis of the patterns designed by Nancy Blum, GKD produced a screen that covered all surfaces that were not to be altered. The fabric specialist then used a blasting agent to modify the metallic surface precisely according to the artist’s specification. The durable patterns created using this method were instantly resistant to UV and severe weather conditions without the need for any special treatment. Daylight transmittance also remains just as high. Depending on the incidence of light and the viewing angle, the patterns can appear either transparent or opaque. However, they derive their special effect through their seamless integration into the building. Nancy Blum added a third dimension to these etched patterns by having silhouette-style pictures of migratory birds typical of the regions mounted on both treated and untreated woven panels. These large stainless steel motifs link the coming and going of the various migrant groups with that of the migratory birds, which follow them on their journey along the Mississippi. Combined with the ethnic patterns, this creates an almost poetic image of dynamic interaction in a region steeped in such a rich tradition.

Ross-on-Wye’s skyline has formed the inspiration for new community facilities at a residential development.The iconic St Mary’s Church spire is reflected in the play area and recreation space created by Hand Made Places for families of St Mary’s Garden Village.The secure play area is surrounded by timber picket fencing and accessed via a bespoke arch double leaf gateway.The planed and sanded softwood arch is engraved to read St Mary’s Garden Village.Four further bespoke archways make up a fun walkway leading to a custom-built version of our Milton Play Unit.The play tower features a slide, rockhold ramp, ladder wall and stepped platform with a church-style spire to one end.A Hawkley Adventure Trail, Swing Steps and Bird’s Nest climbing frame are available for older children.And no play area is complete without the swings, with a Double Cradle Swing installed for little ones as well as a Nest Swing.A Star Stage brings role play to life for little ones, with timber Modular Radius Seating, including a bench engraved with the location, also available. Our cute little Hedgehog Animal Face is watching over everyone. Our installers laid a Bound Rubber Mulch safety surface in neutral green and brown colours.In addition to the play area installation, our parent company Broxap Street Furniture manufactured and supplied six Harrogate Senior Cycle Stands for community use. Four cast iron Blackburn Seats, finished with hardwood slats and a black frame, were provided along with a Derby Standard litter bin.

OverviewThe BP2 office building was constructed on reclaimed land at the eastern gateway to the Canary Wharf estate and comprises 14 stories above ground, plus three basement levels. The building’s design places a strong emphasis on energy-efficient performance, so this was an important criterion in the selection of ventilators.OverviewThe BP2 office building was constructed on reclaimed land at the eastern gateway to the Canary Wharf estate and comprises 14 stories above ground, plus three basement levels. The building’s design places strong emphasis on energy efficient performance, so this was an important criterion in the selection of ventilators.Project BackgroundAir Design Systems Ltd provided a full design and build package for the client. This included installation of local control panels and electrical wiring, as well as micro-switches to allow a positive signal that each ventilator is fully open prior to the pressurisation system starting up. Air Design Systems Ltd also supplied and installed numerous continuous louvres to the plant wells that rise through the building and terminate at roof level.Project SolutionPowrmatic supplied a large office building ventilation solution with a combination of single and double flap Skyvent ventilators to provide natural and smoke ventilation at the BP2 building in Canary Wharf, East London. Each of the 13 BS-EN 12101 ventilators was installed by Air Design Systems Ltdonto existing upstands with insulated lids and bodies and polyester powdered coated to RAL 9007 matt.Project ResultSkyvent ventilators are designed for both smoke and natural ventilation and are available in single and twin flap versions to suit the needs of each project. They can be installed on upstands, roof sheeting and into glazing systems. They feature very low air leakage when closed, and are weatherproof when closed, as tested to BS Parts 1 & 2. Insulated options can achieve U-values as low as 0.17W/m2/K.Skyvent ventilators are available with optional aluminium (single skin and insulated), polycarbonate or glazed lids in polyester powder paint finishes to any standard BS or RAL colour. A full range of accessories is available including bird guards, security guards and insect mesh.

Fitzwarren Court is of one the highest buildings in Salford at 23 storeys and was a major refurbishment requiring an aesthetic and thermal upgrade. The building had originally been earmarked for demolition as part of a wider regeneration of the area, but plans were halted when Salix Homes secured funding to modernise the block.The Casey Group were appointed as main contractor for the work. New kitchens, bathrooms, doors and windows have been fitted to all 135 apartments. Our approved installer Hamilton Building Contractors were contracted by The Casey Group to complete the exterior wall insulation and rendering which had a metamorphic effect on the building’s overall appearance and thermal performance.The 1970s building was a pre-cast concrete panel system. The panels were of a ribbed surface design and were fitted together creating a recessed detail which was a unique design feature. Alongside Hamilton, we worked to transform the façade aesthetically creating a modern building, with a safe, stylish and thermally efficient solution. A complete revamp which has given the building a new lease of life and delivered safe, modern and energy efficient homes for the residents.We worked in collaboration with Hamilton Building Contractors to ensure there was minimum disruption to the residents of Fitzwarren Court, who remained in their homes while the work was carried out.K Systems produced a bespoke high-rise specification which included various zonal wind load calculations optimising the longer-term safety and durability of the design. Various factors were taken into consideration throughout the installation process including a recessed windowsill and anti-perch detail (preventing birds from settling on the sills).Our focus throughout the project included safety, quality, thermal efficiency and service.Paul Turner, Director at The Casey Group, said:   “Successful EWI schemes, especially on high-rise tower blocks, demand the highest level of Project and On-Site Support from design through to inspections, with technical guidance and warranty support. K Systems are expert partners in this field.”Discover more on how the Fitzwarren Court transformation project won at the 2021 INCA awards here: https://k.systems/news/kilwaughter-minerals-wins-big-at-prestigious-national-industry-awards/