"ceiling access doors"

Australia House’s design is striking. Its facade combines classical and Art Deco elements, making it a unique addition to London’s architectural landscape.With a thickness of just one millimetre the translucent stone element that gives the ceiling lamps at the Australian embassy in London their mesmerizing look is highly innovative material - Fini Curve Safe with Stone Laminate - glass-stone composite bent into the desired shape.For more information on the project please feel free to contact:FINIGLAS Veredelungs GmbHWierlings Hook 548249 DülmenTel.-Nr. +49-2594-78905-137Fax-Nr. +49-2594-78905-130Andre Seifert / Sales curved glassCell: +49-172-4560654Email: aseifert@finiglas.deHilal Aksit / Sales & MarketingTel: +49-2594-78905-128Email: haksit@finiglas.deWeb: www.finiglas.de

1 Nine Elms Lane, London SW8 5NQAs Europe's largest regeneration zone, Nine Elms is the most ambitious regeneration project undertaken in London for decades. Located on the south bank of the River Thames in Nine Elms, No. 8 and No. 9 Thames City are impressive new 53-storey residential towers. With their prime central and riverside location, they offer a vibrant destination for city dwellers and visitors.Nine Elms, London's dynamic urban district, is marked by its soaring residential towers. Ensuring the safety of the residents and the protection of the property is paramount. This case study highlights the successful collaboration between Nine Elms London's newest 53-storey residential towers and Rapid Access Ltd, a leading supplier of 920-minute fire rated Riser Doors with smoke seals.Challenges:1. Towering Heights: The residential towers reached considerable heights, increasing the complexity of fire safety and evacuation procedures.2. Stringent Fire Safety Standards: Compliance with stringent fire safety standards, including resistance to fire for a prolonged duration, was a primary concern.3. Smoke Control* Preventing the spread of smoke in the event of a fire was a vital aspect of the fire safety strategy.Solution:Rapid Access Ltd, renowned for their expertise in fire-rated access solutions, was chosen to address the specific needs of Nine Elms London's newest 53-storey residential towers. The solution included the supply and installation of 90-minute fire rated Riser Doors with smoke seals, designed to meet the following key criteria:1. 90-Minute Fire Rating: Rapid Access Ltd provided riser doors with an exceptional 920-minute fire rating, exceeding the fire safety requirements for such high-rise structures.2. Smoke Seals: The riser doors were equipped with smoke seals to prevent the spread of smoke and enhance the safety of residents during evacuation.3. Safety and Compliance: The installation adhered to the most stringent fire safety standards, ensuring the protection of residents and property.Implementation:The supply and installation of 920-minute fire rated Riser Doors with smoke seals by Rapid Access Ltd were executed with meticulous attention to safety and compliance. The installation process was conducted to meet the highest fire safety standards and the specific requirements of the residential towers.Conclusion:The collaboration between Nine Elms London's newest 53-storey residential towers and Rapid Access Ltd exemplified the successful integration of advanced fire safety solutions in high-rise structures. The installation of 920-minute fire rated Riser Doors with smoke seals not only met regulatory and safety needs but also provided an exceptional level of fire protection and peace of mind for the residents. This case study underscores the critical importance of selecting the right access solutions provider for projects that demand the highest levels of fire safety.

PROJECT OVERVIEWOrthoplastics is a global leader in the development and manufacture of orthopaedic implants and components, helping surgeons transform lives around the world. This project, the first phase of a fit out programme for a new facility in Bacup, Lancashire, involved the delivery a new cGMP advanced manufacturing area for the production of Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) sheets used in the manufacture of orthopaedic implants. The requirement was for a production area that can provide a controlled environment, isolated from the rest of the floorplate, during processing periods, while enabling access by a remote controlled mobile crane to remove the completed UHMWPE sheets when the equipment is non-operational.PROJECT SPECThe new Orthoplastics building is a single storey facility and the size and weight of the UHMWPE equipment required excavation of additional space below ground to accommodate both the machine and the building services required to process materials at up to 2400C. The 1000m2 processing area needs to be a cleanable cGMP compliant environment to avoid the risk of contaminants in materials that will be used in orthopaedic surgery. The partitioning for the perimeter is 11m tall and connected to the ceiling of the existing building shell. To provide the structural stability required for such tall walls, the standard Norwood 100mm Mediline partition thickness has been increased to 200mm. The project also included rapid rise doors for access by the remote control crane that removes the large UHMWPE sheets following the process. The fully demountable double skin bi-panel system enabled a fast and robust installation enabling the project to get back on track quickly following interruption by the pandemic. The panels were prefabricated in-house by Norwood, enabling a fast-track installation programme.Norwood was also designed, manufactured and installed a range of their single and double steel doors in blue.

Bettys & Taylors of Harrogate is a fourth generation independent family business, passionate about some of the finer things in life – beautiful tea rooms, handmade cakes, traditional breads, proper tea and top quality coffee. They are the business behind Yorkshire Tea, Taylors of Harrogate coffee and the famous Bettys Café Tea Rooms.Project/doors: 5 Speedor Super, 1 Speedor Mini, 12 Fire Shutter, 21 Pedestrian doors, 1 Electric roller shutter, 1 Insulated Roller ShutterThe challenge Due to the size and weight of the insulated roller shutter at 10.5m wide and 6.3m high, this was a difficult installation in an area where the headroom was very tight. A crane was required to lift the shutter into position after opening two holes in the building’s roof so lifting chains could be dropped through to facilitate moving the shutter into position. The solutionHart was contracted by Sir Robert McAlpine to supply and install a range of industrial doors at the Taylors of Harrogate site.  This included the installation of the three-tonne insulated roller shutter completing a work package of over 40 doors. The success The installation of the shutter concluded a project which Hart was involved with through Sir Robert McAlpine and which saw almost every Hart door product installed – from Speedor high speed doors to fire shutters, security shutters and steel personnel doors. 

Improve the Student and Staff Experience at LSEThe new building, which opened its doors in January 2022, demonstrates the School’s ambition to create a world class estate and university quarter in the heart of London. Designed by Dublin-based Grafton Architects, the large, multi-purpose building occupies a pivotal position at the southern corner of Lincoln’s Inn Fields. The Marshall Building is LSE’s largest building with ten storeys plus two basement levels. It accommodates the Departments of Accounting, Finance and Management, as well as the Marshall Institute of Philanthropy and Social Enterprise, the Systemic Risk Centre and the Financial Markets Group.HERADESIGN® Fine and HERADESIGN® Superfine were chosen for its acoustic performance, aesthetics, economy and low carbon. The impact resistant type was also specified for the sports areas. Alongside, Armstrong METAL R-H 200 panels provide a sophisticated open and contemporary look. They were chosen for areas where more service access was required but where a consistent aesthetic was also important. The metal panels were also used as ‘floating canopies’ so a high perimeter was specified to give a finished look at all sides.

The two access control systems from SIEGENIA for house and apartment entrance doors leave no desires unfulfilled: the keypad and the fingerprint scanner combine elegant design with maximum ease of use and efficient access management for the building. They are therefore an ideal solution for the increasing demand for smart home applications in private housing construction. The two systems are equipped with a comprehensive access log, simple, clear user administration as well as a rechargeable battery-buffered timer. The emphasis is on ease of use – e.g. with a simple touch of the finger on the fingerprint scanner or the standardised equipment with integrated WIFI and Bluetooth technology. This enables both the use of the smartphone as remote control as well as convenient control and administration with the aid of the SIEGENIA Comfort app. 

Surespan designed and manufactured four access products for the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California The Project:HKS Architects were behind the architectural design of the stadium by creating an unrivalled sports and entertainment destination. The 5-billion-dollar stadium has created a diverse event space that offers an unparalleled experience from enjoying cocktails and food to immersive sporting events.The stadium offers a ground-breaking video experience that became the first venue to air live football on its roof. Furthermore, the centre-hung Samsung screen is the world’s first halo video board that is roughly 70,000 square-foot, dual-sided and is considered the most LEDs ever used in a sports and entertainment venue.The SoFi Stadium will be hosting several global events from the Super Bowl LVI 2022, 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Summer Olympics opening and closing ceremonies.The Product:Surespan designed and manufactured four access products.  Two electrically operated, double leaf, flush floor hinged access covers to suit an overall frame size of 4267 x 1768mm.  Two electrically operated, double-leaf ceiling access panels to suit an overall frame size of 4267 x 1768mm. The lids have been designed to open downwards.

ChallengesSinclair Watt were provided with a detailed brief to provide accommodation for a new main entrance and reception area, product display hall, meeting room suite, additional office space and customer service telephone hall and ancillary accommodation. By necessity these were required to be large spaces to accommodate large numbers of employees and visitors.The building had to achieve seven basic goals – to allow VELUX to be a good neighbour, to be simple and beautiful, to make arrival a good experience, to be a model of balanced daylight, natural ventilation, good indoor comfort and healthy materials, to apply a well-defined, high-quality structural concept, to obtain good sustainable standards with a minimum use of energy, to be visible and logical, and to create value and express the VELUX values.The ceiling systems had to meet the Class 1, aesthetic, fire and acoustic performance required for the 37,673 ft² two-storey building which features an engineered timber and steel structural frame. The project was the first time Zentia’s Ultima+ Finesse mineral tiles had been installed in Scotland.SolutionsSinclair Watt met the brief by incorporating a regular and prominent engineered timber and steel structural frame that provided a design with a clear distinction between the supporting structure of the building and the facades and roof. This was both to create clarity and logic in the design and to make it possible to replace or update the not-so-permanent parts of the building.The internal design incorporates a central street and atrium that acts as a meeting place as well as a general circulation area and allows the best use of natural sunlight and natural ventilation throughout the building. The building provides good indoor comfort and utilises healthy materials.The three key areas – energy efficiency, healthy indoor environment and renewable energy – constitute the basis of the new building. A fabric-first approach for the building was adopted with high insulation levels and low air permeability rates to reduce overall heat loss from the building. This combined with a natural ventilation and daylighting strategy, and the use of LED lighting and air source heat pumps as the main heating source, resulted in a highly energy efficient and sustainable building.Some 1,1,00 m² of the Zentia Prestige hA+ Tegular15 tiles were used in the ground floor offices and storerooms, while 100m² of the Finesse tiles were used in the restaurant, kitchen and toilets. The Ultima+ range features class-leading light reflectance of 87% and Euroclass A2-s1, d0 fire classification, the Tegular15 variant with Class A sound absorption and Finesse a fully concealed, fully painted edge detail.Architect Iain Mitchell said: “We specified the Zentia systems as they have a good product range, good suspension systems, with good product information and good technical backup. They met all the aesthetic, fire and acoustic performances.“Zentia shadow and transition trims were used so the Zentia ceilings tie in well with adjacent plasterboard walls and ceilings. The client is very happy with the ceiling installation and building as a whole.”Colin Burns, commercial director of specialist sub-contractor PFP, said: “We had some meetings with Zentia to talk through the detailing of the Finesse element and put it to the guys on site but apart from that, and some coordinating with services, it was very straightforward. It looks good as it always does and gives a nice bright finish. It was interesting to be the first installer of Finesse in Scotland.”

A Gloucestershire based independent care provider has recently completed a 46 bed extension on their care home for clients with dementia and nursing care requirements. Having worked with the contractor on a similar project, Astor Bannerman were recommended to the company to supply ceiling track hoists in an effort to future proof the needs of the home. With floor space at a premium, the company wanted to move away from the traditional style mobile hoists, which need to be stored away when not in use. Also, as using a ceiling hoist system normally only requires one carer to operate, this enables the company to adapt to the possible implications of Brexit on staffing levels.During the installation, we successfully added an XY (H-frame) hoist system into 3 assisted bathrooms and added 3m straight track OT200 hoists in 6 bedrooms allowing simple transfer in an out of bed.Fixings were also installed during the main build in the remaining 40 bedrooms, enabling the care provider to retrofit track and hoists as and when they require them at any point in the future.

PROJECTSecondary school in Grüze 5, Dübendorf [CH]COMPLETIONOctober 2023ARCHITECTStutz Bolt Partner Architekten AGPRODUCTSTANGENTA Y100 luminaireLight distribution: 2 x 60°; light colour: 4000 K; DALI dimmable; CRI > 80; LED: 3 x 34.5 W; dimensions [L x W x H]: 1,550 x 100 x 100 mm [72 units].S7 RHOMBOS TAIFUN expanded metal ceiling system1.5 mm thickness of black sheet; mesh size: 44 x 12 x 3 x 1.5 mm; dimensions: 980 x 790 mm and 1,650 x 680 mm; powder-coated in RAL 9016 matt [576 units] The new extension to the school building at Dübendorf-Schwerzenbach blends seamlessly into the existing complex and, with a lightness of design touch and its versatile range of usage options, it takes a big step towards modern school infrastructure. This building has been designed to enable it to be adapted to suit changing requirements in future. The school building is constructed on a double gym facility, two thirds of which are recessed below ground level, receiving natural daylight through a strip of windows at the top of its walls. When needed, the TANGENTA-Y100 luminaires supplied by durlum can be switched on. These deliver high lighting intensity combined with superlative lighting efficiency. These luminaires are discretely integrated in the S7 RHOMBOS TAIFUN expanded metal ceiling system with tested ball impact resistance to fulfil the special requirements of sports hall. Combined with its small mesh size, the white, powder-coated ceiling imbues an aesthetic appeal to this hall, which is also used by the general public. All entirely in sympathy with the architectural vision.

The waiting room at Houton Pier on The Mainland of the Orkney Islands was cold and draughty due to a weather-damaged door opening directly into the waiting area. An extension was built to create a weather break and fitted with record FTA 20 automatic folding doors which minimise the time the door is open to the elements but still provides good access. The doors are activated by a radar presence sensor for two way traffic. The old door was also replaced with a THERMCORD sliding door with energy efficient core panels to further reduce the ingress of cold air.

Gerico France designs, manufactures and installs bulk solid storage and handling equipment. It offers bucket elevators, conveyors, pipes, silos, warehouses, milling machines, feed producing equipment, heat treatment devices, and accessories.Project/doors: 21 Speedor Storm High Speed DoorsThe challenge Gerico France delivered a turn-key flour mill project in Mombasa, Kenya for a Grain milling company at their state of the art milling plant. They required a solution to stop dust going out of the building instead of being aspirated by the installed system when emptying grain trucks into the wheat grain intake pit.The solutionHart installed three Speedor Storm doors from 4m wide x 5m high to 7m high. The Speedor Storm is the next generation of large external door which has improved wind resistance on both sides of the door and is suitable for larger openings, greater than 6m. This door does not require separate wind bars as the curtain contains wind bracing every 1m and is held securely into the guide channels with rollers at either side. The success Hart Doors sent an experienced engineer to Mombasa to supervise and assist in the installation and commissioning of the doors along with the training of staff to install future orders. 18 more Speedor Storms were ordered for a specialised dry bulk discharge and handling terminal for grain imports, located in Shimanzi, Mombasa.

A Rundum Original side sliding garage door has enabled a client in Yorkshire to apply a non-standard shape to their new garage to maximise the footprint and provide the largest area of usable internal space with easy vehicular access. The angle of the boundary of the Victorian house presented an opportunity during a refurbishment project to remodel the garage. By aligning the front elevation of the garage with the house, vehicular access could be improved. The design required a door that could comfortably handle a right angle corner followed by an obtuse angle along the garage's side wall.

Battersea Power Station, Circus Rd W, Nine Elms, London SW11 8DDThe iconic Grade II* listed Battersea Power Station is NOW OPEN as London’s most exciting new shopping and leisure destination! This legendary London landmark and surrounding area has been brought back to life as one of the most exciting and innovative mixed use neighbourhoods in the world – a place for locals, tourists and residents to enjoy a unique blend of shops, bars, restaurants, leisure and entertainment venues, parks and historical spaces. A place to shop, eat, drink, live, work and play; here life doesn’t feel ordinary, it feels extraordinary.The Battersea Power Station regeneration project stands as an iconic symbol of urban revitalization in London. Preserving the historic architectural character while modernizing utility access was a formidable challenge. This case study showcases the successful collaboration between the Battersea Power Station regeneration project and Rapid Access Ltd, a leading supplier of Plaster-In Access Panels and Dual Access Panels designed to seamlessly integrate with the development.Challenges:1. Historic Preservation: The project required utility access solutions that respected the historical significance of the Battersea Power Station while modernizing its functionality.2. Architectural Integrity: The development needed to uphold architectural integrity and ensure minimal disruption to the building's aesthetics during the installation of access panels.3. *Functional Versatility: The vast and diverse spaces within the regeneration project demanded access solutions that could cater to different utility access needs.Solution:Rapid Access Ltd, recognized for their expertise in access solutions, was chosen to address the specific needs of the Battersea Power Station regeneration project. The solution included the installation of Plaster-In Access Panels and Dual Access Panels, designed to meet the following key criteria:1. Plaster-In Access Panels: Rapid Access Ltd provided access panels that seamlessly integrated with the historic architecture, preserving the building's aesthetics.2. Dual Access Panels: Dual Access Panels were deployed to provide versatility, ensuring seamless access to utility systems across various spaces within the development.3. Architectural Harmony: The access panels were meticulously customized to blend with the architectural design of the Battersea Power Station, ensuring that they harmoniously integrated with the historic structure.Implementation:The installation of Plaster-In Access Panels and Dual Access Panels by Rapid Access Ltd was executed with precision and expertise. The unique design of the panels allowed for seamless integration, while the dual access panels offered versatile solutions for various utility access points.Conclusion:The collaboration between the Battersea Power Station regeneration project and Rapid Access Ltd exemplified the successful integration of utility access solutions into a historically significant and iconic development. The installation of Plaster-In Access Panels and Dual Access Panels not only met functional needs but also contributed to the overall success of the Battersea Power Station regeneration, ensuring architectural preservation and operational efficiency. This case study underscores the importance of selecting the right access solutions provider for historically significant architectural projects.

Ahmarra manufactured fire doors for Brunel University London, on behalf of the main contractor. Made from sustainably sourced FSC® timber, these doors are faced with Formica’s stylish Terril (F2297) dark grey high pressure laminate. As with all of our Education Range, these pre-hung doorsets were supplied with factory-fitted stainless steel ironmongery, ensuring full compliance.

Customer ordered our fire rated FlipFix panel. We dispatched the same day and the customer received their access panels the following day. Customer comments:-"Easy to order and delivery was quicker than expected which was a bonus for us as we were able to complete the job earlier than planned."

The Skelbrooke Ward is a psychiatric intensive care unit (PICU) at the Doncaster Adult Mental Health Unit; providing specialised care for people experiencing acute mental ill health. In early 2020, the Skelbrooke Ward underwent a major refurbishment to modernise the environment and introduce new technology to work alongside clinical practices. Patient care and recovery were at the forefront of plans for the refurbishment of the Skelbrooke Ward. Our electronic integrated override locks allow patients to move freely between rooms where access is permitted; whilst the load release en-suite doors carefully consider privacy and dignity without compromising on safety.

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

Queen’s University is a member of the Russell Group, and one of the United Kingdom and Ireland’s leading universities which continues to shape and serve the world through research and teaching. Based in the heart of Belfast, Queen’s University is committed to enhancing its historic campus and the surrounding conservation area while providing 21st century facilities for education and research.With the entrance atrium combining various double and triple-height spaces over different floors, Armstrong METAL Cellio was the perfect choice to provide a sleek contemporary ceiling that connected and unified these spaces into one recognisable volume, with a sense of lightness and transparency.HERADESIGN® was used throughout the building as a recognisable and repeated element that provided good acoustic performance with texture and pattern. From a wall and ceiling installation highlighting the reception area, to acoustic absorption on the walls in meeting rooms and subtle black hanging baffles in a bar space.

Bilco UK's CS-50TB Roof Access Hatch provides the perfect solution for roof-top access at Blair Castle, Scotland. The Category A listed building is said to have been constructed in 1269 and has been extensively added to over the years. Maintaining such a historic monument is a massive task. The Atholl Estate employ an army of staff to ensure this iconic property is preserved for future generations. One of the many problems in looking after such a building is the fact that it was not designed with ease of access to the roof in mind.

ProjectSurespan designed and manufactured a single leaf hatch that was installed in a residential home in Solihull, for access to an underground level gym.ProductThe HIACE external single leaf access hatch to fit a structural opening 1200 x 3400. The pan-type door was recessed for 40mm paving slabs infill with an EPDM unbroken seal to help prevent the ingress of dirt and moisture. The floor hatch was fitted with a retractable safety grid operated by a 24v actuator. FeaturesRated at pedestrian loading, operated by two 24v DC Actuators. 40mm paving slabs infill. Retractable safety grid Supplied with a Zen-controlled 240vAC/24vDC electrical supply, and transformer.

GEZE is also a leading provider of door, window and safety technology in the UK. GEZE UK Ltd implemented state-of-the-art door solutions in the John Radcliffe Children's Hospital in Oxford, skilfully combining clinical functionality with a comfortable atmosphere for the young patients.Invisible efficiency: Slimdrive SL sliding door systemsAutomatic glass sliding door system with Slimdrive SL-drives in discreet 70 mm design.The John-Radcliffe Children's Hospital designed by Parry Bowen architects, and built in accordance with the latest hospital architectural standards.. The real eye-catcher of the main entrance is the double-leaf automatic sliding door, with a powerful GEZE Slimdrive SL drive system that works almost invisibly thanks to its construction height of only 70 mm. The Slimdrive SL drive automatic drive fits unobtrusively and elegantly into the contemporary clinic façade, and quietly and efficiently manages thousands of movement cycles every day at the busy children’s hospital."We are delighted by the design of our entrance area. It’s exactly the kind of atmosphere that is expected of a modern children's hospital. The high-quality workmanship makes a key contribution to a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for patients and clinical staff," says Vickie Holcroft, Project Manager at the John Radcliffe Hospital.Automatic swing doors: convenience in the entire clinical areaThe swing door systems from the GEZE TSA drive series are used everywhere in the clinic complex where functionality and ease of access are of particular importance. The automatic TSA 160 door drive ensures light and reliable opening and closing of the automatic doors, even in heavily frequented areas. The TS 4000 overhead door closer provides flexible ease of access at swing doors with manual opening. The closing force of the door closers can be individually set and can be perfectly adjusted to meet the needs of each clinical area. They enable door leaves to be opened with minimal effort, e.g. for children and weak adults. The TSA drives make transportation of beds and/or patients easier for clinical staff.Access control for supervised clinical areasTo safeguard access control to sensitive clinical areas, the swing doors to the operating rooms and intensive card wards were also equipped with a TSA drive with an electromagnetic locking system. This guarantees that only authorised persons can enter these areas.

Marking a £10.6m investment, a Hampshire County Council (HCC) designed school in Wellesley, Aldershot provides an excellent start to a child’s learning. Knauf Ceiling Solutions' HERADESIGN® Superfine contributes to this vision by helping to create a healthy acoustic environment. HERADESIGN® is manufactured from sustainably sourced wood wool with a unique, organic aesthetic that can match any colour as ceilings, baffles, canopies and wall absorbers. Thanks to the technologically-advanced mineral wool core, HERADESIGN® demonstrates exceptional sound absorption which makes it suitable for a variety of environments, from schools and leisure buildings through to offices and hospitals.

Surespan designed and manufactured Glazed Roof Hatches with fixed glazed sections and a vertical end door for the 79&Park residential.The projectOscar Properties commissioned BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group) to design and construct 79& Park residential building. The building is located on the edge of Gärdet, a treasured national park. The architects made conscious decisions throughout the process to provide a sensitive, respectful building with exceptional residences with spectacular views.All Oscar Properties projects aim to add value to the city and the surrounding environment.  79&Park architecture appears like an extension of the park, a gentle hillside seamlessly blending into the nature around it. The project was named Europe’s best housing project in the Internationally recognised real estate competition The International Property Awards.ProductSurespan designed and manufactured multiple glazed roof access hatches in various sizes including 2200 x 2115, 3160 x 1553, and 4175 x 1025.  As part of the glazed roof hatches a vertical door was designed for easy access to the roof spaces. The final glazed hatches were finished off with a polyester powder-coated finish.  Features:These glazed roof hatches feature a specialist sensory control panel. A 1-minute warning sound is activated when rain is detected, and a movement sensor prevents the closing of the hatch. Other features include opening in case of a fire and a keycode pad for exiting.

AbleStay Holiday HomeFor anyone considering accessible accommodation in London, you may be interested to hear more about AbleStay, London’s first accessible holiday home situated near Worcester Park, South West London. The house is fully adapted for wheelchair access and has a bright open plan kitchen, dining and living area.The AbleStay mission is to deliver fully accessible and adapted holiday homes in cities across the UK, providing families with confidence their accommodation will provide a perfect and beautiful environment for their stay.Freedom by Symphony KitchenDesigned by Adam Thomas Consultancy, and Tara Neil kitchen Retailer, the AbleStay house features our Freedom by Symphony Kitchen and has various universal and accessible design features ensuring a safe, practical and stylish kitchen space.A rise and fall adjustable height worktop with integrated waterfall edge to limit spillages. Visitors to the holiday home can set a safe and convenient height to use the Induction hob, sink and front mounted tap, which is all situated on the same run of worktop. The full length of the rise and fall worktop also provides open leg space and a shallow sink bowl providing full accessibility for wheelchair access.There is a pull-out accessible larder, eliminating the need to bend and reach down into the back of cupboards to find cooking items. Instead, all items are within reach and clearly visible so are easy to find quickly and safely.  Two Luxurious Slide&Hide® Neff ovens have been installed featuring doors which can be hidden beneath when using the oven. Accessible oven housings also position the ovens at a comfortable height and have the benefit of heatproof shelfs, so food can be transferred out of the oven straight onto the resting shelves; allowing hot dishes to cool before transferring to the worktop space.Founder of AbleStay Freedom by Symphony are thrilled to have worked on such an exciting project with Charles Van Berckel, founder of AbleStay: “the support provided by Adam Thomas and the team at Symphony enabled us to provide a truly beautiful and functional kitchen for wheelchair users. Without their kind and generous support it would never have been possible”

Specialists industrial door manufacture Jewers Doors have installed two 'threshold-less' versions of their Kingfisher sliding door system in Boathouse 4 at Portsmouth's historic dockyard.

Located on the surviving remains of London’s first purpose-built theatre, New Inn Broadway is a new V&A museum exhibition and office building in Shoreditch. ‘The Theatre’ - which was the forerunner to ‘The Globe’- was originally built in 1576 and was home to some of William Shakespeare’s early plays. The five-storey building has been developed to celebrate the unique history of the site.New Inn Broadway is a location steeped in history.With its origins stretching back to Elizabethan times, and now playing host to the V&A and a commercial office space there was a lot to consider during the specification process.This dual purpose presented specific access concerns for the client, wanting to easily control who can move between the museum and office space, while also keeping everything secure. Allgood’s team of security and access control consultants worked with the client and electrical consultants to create a system design that met these requirements. This detailed technical planning was followed by careful execution and installation, using the latest in security and access control equipment.The final solution involved a state-of-the-art system that allows differing levels of access across the separate areas of the multi-use venue. This work was complemented with a coordinated ironmongery package including a complete Modric Doc M installation.Allgood Secure was specified by mechanical and electrical consultants Waterman Group to collaborate on system design, and supply and fit access control an audio visual intercom system, CCTV intruder detection, and an alarm system.As this was a multi-use development comprising the V&A museum as well as commercial office space, it was imperative that the building had a network access control system to manage access and maintain security as well as allow the end user to change access rights easily.Stainless steel entrance panels were specified at the main entrance doors and at the stairwells of each lettable office space floor, with a one-way video system that calls the internal handsfree monitors.A HD CCTV system was selected to allow remote monitoring from a different site, and a mixture of bullet and dome cameras were installed and finished in a bespoke RAL finish to complement the contemporary ceiling.Allgood Secure managed the installation of an intruder alarm system which features high-end technology offering peace of mind for staff.As well as a high-tech security system, Allgood’s Modric washroom package was specified by Gallus Studio architects, particularly its Doc M package.

In a historic moment blending heritage, accessibility, and community spirit, the much-anticipated Ignatius Sancho Café officially opened its doors in Greenwich Park on Saturday, 23rd March. The launch event, attended by esteemed guests and locals alike, marked a milestone in celebrating the legacy of Ignatius Sancho, a remarkable 18th-century figure whose impact resonates through the centuries.Changing Places, Changing LivesAstor Bannerman was pleased to be involved in the project to contribute to the cafes abilities to cater to diverse needs. The Changing Places facility includes:Astor’s Invincible Height Adjustable Changing TableABW-CP Height Adjustable Wall Mounted Wash BasinOT200 Overhead Ceiling Track HoistGeberit – AquaClean Mera Care Shower ToiletKwickScreen Wall Mounted Privacy ScreenThese facilities underscore The Royal Park’s commitment to inclusion and accessibility.Borras Construction, the construction company behind the project, received accolades for their dedication and craftsmanship. Architect Mark Martines from Architype envisioned a blend of historical charm and modern functionality, transforming the old ranger’s lodge into a vibrant community hub just a stone’s throw away from the picturesque deer park in Greenwich.The CaféThe Ignatius Sancho Café promises to breathe new life into the park, offering an array of lunch items ranging from hot and cold sandwiches, freshly brewed coffees, cakes, salads, and much more. Beyond serving as a place to stop by on your visit to the park, the café aims to be a focal point for fostering connections, promoting diversity, and celebrating Greenwich’s heritage.As guests step through the door of the Ignatius Sancho Café, they engage in an experience that encapsulates the ethos of inclusivity, creativity, and community synonymous with the legacy of Ignatius Sancho.For more information and updates, visit Ignatius Sancho Café’s website.

60 London Wall is an icon mixed use office & retail building in the dynamic heart of London’s City, with 328,500 sq ft of grade A office accommodation situated over ten stunning floors. It was recently completely renovated and Alliance Bernstein now occupy space within the building. The existing raised access floor was overlaid with Knauf GifaFloor FHB18 making it the ideal substrate to receive a combination of ceramic tiles & micro-screed cement

Jewers Doors’ Australian reseller, Max Doors Solutions (MDS), have recently completed the installation of four sets of Swift-SEW doors on the Maintenance Depot for the new Light Rail system in the country’s capital, Canberra.

Vtec’s MaxiBeam system was included in the design for a new reception area in a corporate office building. Both the client and designer wanted a statement feature that had a real ‘wow factor’ that also worked alongside the rest of the scheme. The design involved complex geometry and integrations for a stunning acoustic wall and ceiling in MaxiBeam Light Oak finish. The project involved bespoke angled ends on the interface, precise spacing and complete integration with the lighting scheme. In addition, timescales were extremely tight so drawings with full install details and 3D visuals were turned around very quickly.

Automatic sliding doors provide patient comfort at outstanding healthcare facilityThomas Audley Ward at Homerton Hospital, London - The trust operates acute services from a single site: Homerton University Hospital, which opened in 1986. Based on an aggregation of ratings across all of the core services provided from the hospital, the hospital has been rated by Care Quality Commission as ‘Outstanding’.Architect – Hunters ArchitectsProduct – SL500 bi-parting doors in slim-eco profiles with fixed side screens of up to 8 panels covering 6.7m on 4 separate bays.The works encompass a full ward refurbishment comprising of layout changes, floor, wall and ceiling finishes, sanitary appliances, mechanical and electrical installations, fixtures and fittings renewal and internal doors.Working alongside the project lead architect, we assisted with the design to create 4 new ward entrance screens, to assist with reducing noise and air pollution, creating a more welcoming and comfortable patient environment. Our slim-eco door profiles were chosen and also provided with our unique TightSeal system, minimising any gaps around the doors. In addition to the door profiles, directional activation units were installed, contributing even further to eliminate unnecessary opening cycles. 

55 Whitehall was previously a Government occupied office space. This iconic building has undergone a complete re-design. There was existing steel encapsulated raised access flooring throughout. Rather than remove or replace the raised floor, it was retained. Hugo18 was specified here to use as an overlay solution to the raised access floor. It offers a non-combustible, high performance substrate for a range of finishes, in this case - ceramics

Veolia is the UK leader in environmental solutions, it provides a comprehensive range of waste, water and energy management services.Project/doors:Nationwide replacement of 60+ doorsThe challengeDue to difficult conditions on site including dust, dirt and moisture, the current doors were unreliable and unfit for purpose. As the doors were not manufactured in the UK, replacement parts were expensive and not readily available. Having doors out of action for long periods of time affected compliance with local authority regulations.The solutionThe Speedor Storm is an extremely robust door with wind class 5 up to 8m due to its unique guide system. The multi-layer PVC fabric is thicker and less prone tears and splits. Moisture-controlled electrics protect from varying temperatures within a building, and mechanical components are protected from dust and dirt. Its high-speed action control the escaping dirt, odours and noise. The successHart Doors is the oldest British manufacturer of highspeed doors and understands that one size does not fit all. Veolia was given peace of mind with parts available in stock and a 2 year warranty as standard. Reliable doors meant less repairs, less down time and less cost and Veolia had the confidence that Hart would deliver a quality product and serviceThe Review:"Excellent Service. Great workmanship, worked well." Wayne Glynne, RDF Manager, Veolia

Two bespoke, 8m-span Rundum Original side sliding garage doors have enabled Evans Vettori architects to deliver on their thoughtful, sensitive vision for the modern new premises of a well-established firm of funeral directors in Buxton. Two Rundum Original ‘round the corner’ side sliding doors provide access to the garage for the company’s three large specialist vehicles. A second door designed and manufactured to a matching specification provides the same wide opening directly at the rear of the building, allowing the vehicles to be driven in with ease from the small courtyard.The building’s high quality design and excellent build standard by NSJ Contractors, which resulted in it making the shortlist of the East Midlands RIBA Regional Awards 2020, blends key aspects of the local vernacular with modern design and material choices, including a zinc standing seam roof that extends to form the outward-facing façade.Within this zinc façade is one of the two Rundum Original ‘round the corner’ side sliding doors by Rundum Meir UK that provide access to the garage for the company’s three large specialist vehicles. A second door designed and manufactured to a matching specification provides the same wide opening directly the rear of the building, allowing the vehicles to be driven in with ease from the courtyard to avoid any access or manoeuvring difficulties and making best use of the site’s space.

We’ve had a long-standing relationship with Birmingham University, having installed many doors and operators in the past. The University has a large campus, and we have a few projects under our belts where improved sustainable access has been achieved.Below is a fine selection of some of our more recent installations.Project Year: 2023Product: ASSA ABLOY SW200 Operator (Main entrance)Product: ASSA ABLOY SW200 Operator (Harding Building)Product: ASSA ABLOY SL500 F (Arts & Law Building)Project Background: The University’s goal is to make every door and every entrance accessible for everyone so it’s inclusive, reflecting their commitment to diversity and equality. By prioritizing accessibility, they aim to ensure that all members of the university community, regardless of their physical abilities, can navigate the campus with ease. Through these efforts, Birmingham University continues to set a standard for higher education institutions striving to provide equitable access to education and resources for all.With this in mind, the facilities management team required robust, reliable and energy saving elements to their entrances.Solution: Two of the buildings required strong operators to withstand the daily use of their current swing doors. Our elegant heavy duty SW200 swing door operators were incorporated into one of the University’s main entrances and The Harding building, which both required reliability and ease of entrance, as students are often carrying heavy bags full of books and electronics. The SL500 Framesliding door was installed in the Arts & Law building, allowing for a seamless and responsive entrance as you enter the bright lobby. This helped to reduce the amount of energy required in this building, making it more efficient at heating and cooling.We have more projects in the pipeline with Birmingham University as they continue to enhance their facilities. Our commitment to providing first-rate door solutions and operators aligns perfectly with the university’s mission to create a welcoming and accessible environment for students, staff, and visitors.Check out more Education solutions.For more information or assistance with any project, please contact enquiries.esuk@faactechnologies.com where we can provide expert guidance and detailed documentation.Pictures by NickCaville.com