"external lighting"

Artform Urban supplied a range of solar powered lighting elements to The Royal Horticultural Society’s garden, Wisley in Surrey. The requirement for the job was for external lighting in prominent parts of the gardens to assist with wayfinding when dark.The Point Sun and Sunstone are 100% cable free, self-charging ambient light sources.The end result is that visitors and staff can now walk around safely in the dark thanks to eco-friendly lighting.

According to Alzheimer’s UK, there are around 900,000 people with dementia in the UK and this figure is expected to rise to 1.6 million by 2040. Dementia is an umbrella term and is caused when diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, vascular dementia and other conditions, damage the brain. As well as memory problems, dementia can also cause issues with vision and perception, leading to problems such as a welcome mat by a door looking like a black hole. The Equality Act and Building Regulations (Part M) make provision for people with dementia and there are some, when specifying paving for care homes and in the public realm, that can make a significant difference. One of the key points that can be addressed by speaking to a reputable paving manufacturer is the consistency of light reflection values (RV) throughout the landscape design. LRV measures the amount of light reflected back from a material when illuminated by a light source. The more light reflected, the higher the LRV. It is usually measured using aspectrophotometer. Research by Liverpool John Moores University demonstrated that an ‘uneven’ appearance of ground surface or patches of darker tone or colour can be confusing and potentially cause accidents. The institution also described how paving patterns or changes in colour that are arbitrary can cause confusion. It has concluded that strong paving patterns - such as chequerboard - may cause disturbance, as consistent light reflectance values are required. When Keepmoat Homes was involved in the building of the planned dementia care facilities in Litchfield, Staffordshire, the company spoke to specialists at Brett Landscaping. Keepmoat was working on a centre that would house up to 90 people in six buildings and needed the paving to be suitable for the residents at the centre. It required external paving which registered between 25 and 45 on the light reflective value spectrum. Rigorous and extensive testing of the LRVs of Brett’s products enabled Keepmoat to install paving that falls within the strict parameters of the guidelines. Testing of Brett’s Alpha Flow permeable paving systems at Brett’s manufacturing plants in Kent and Dorset, showed that the LRV was consistent on individual colour ranges. It also revealed that the variance between all three colour ranges (Autumn Gold, Brindle and Charcoal) is ideally suited for the project. Brett’s Alpha Flow paving is already widely used across the country for developments where developers are looking to improve surface water drainage and prevent flooding. Existing Alpha Flow pavements are also still offering between 15 and 20 years of low maintenance service. Other than the consistency of light reflective values, Alzheimer’s UK has called for other work to help those living with dementia. It also recommends carefully selecting materials to avoid reflective or dark surfaces which could confuse perception, planning continuous, level routes and avoiding steps if possible.

A well-known and commonly used component of external wall coverings has wrongly remained unloved by the architect for almost 20 years since its introduction to the UK market in 1990. Whilst it is widely accepted that external wall insulation (EWI) systems and external render can dramatically improve the U-values of a building, the materials that are used in these systems may not be so popular.

It can be difficult to find a lift that will operate outside without providing complete shelter from the elements. Full enclosures can have a significant impact on the building appearance and there may also be space constraints in lightwell situations. Penny Hydraulics Ltd uses design automation to quickly produce layouts based on its modular lift systems that can be adapted for external installation. The company has been manufacturing lifts in the UK for over 30 years and so has much experience to help find solutions that it knows will work well for the end user. Blueprint Studios in Manchester were experiencing problems moving audio equipment up to the first floor recording studio safely. It would have been very costly to fit internally both in terms of cost and space so a Penny Hydraulics MezzLift was installed externally within a minimal black frame and polycarbonate clad shaft to satisfy Listed Buildings consent. This saved considerable building works whilst enabling the Studios to become safer and more efficient. If the change in level is below 1.5 metres then a Loading Bay Lift could have been used that has much less impact over a more traditional style lift.

NyRock Frame Slab 032 - in external wall - timber frame

The role of the maintenance team is critical to keep flood lighting operational at all times. Accessing flood lights for maintenance, however, is the tricky bit. Every facilities manager knows, where possible, working at height is to be avoided. This is where the flood light winch comes into its own.

StoVentec Glass rainscreen cladding has a prominent position at the new Very Light Rail National Innovation Centre (VLRNIC) in Dudley. The RAL 3028 red coloured glass panels were installed by Metclad using Sto’s sophisticated sub-construction. This invisible yet indispensable supporting structure forms the structural link between the façade and the substrate and enabled the individual StoVentec Glass panels to be installed and secured easily to provide a bright, colourful façade for the building’s main signage.The VLRNIC was funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council (DMBC), the Black Country Local Enterprise Partnership (BCLEP) in partnership with the Midlands Engine Investment Fund (MEIF), the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership (CWLEP) and Coventry City Council. The Black Country Innovative Manufacturing Organisation (BCIMO) is a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee and the driving force behind this multi-purpose centre which offers a host of unique facilities including a Rail Development and Test Site, Engineering Laboratories, Serviced Offices and an Events Suite. BBA accredited, StoVentec Glass panels are suitable for internal and external use, for new build or refurbishment projects and can be installed within high-traffic areas as the system has passed all industry standard soft-body and hard-body impact tests to CWCT standards. You can choose from a wide range of colours, either single-colour, multi-colour or metallics with a gloss, reflective or matt finish. Design: WSP UK Client: The Black Country Innovative Manufacturing Organisation Sto Applicator: Metclad Sto Expertise: StoVentec Glass A2 rainscreen cladding, RAL colour 3028 Photo credit: BCIMO & Daniel Graves Photography

The Lucent Development creates balance that boosts productivity and wellbeing.Lucent W1 is quite literally built around nature, with a tree towering in the central atrium and an internal green wall that stretches the full height of the world-famous external lights. The innovative Fletcher Priest design has created offices that are cocooned away from the surrounding city, while 20 terraces allow panoramic views across the capital.For this design, Selo used the Quarda Riser Door which are the most high-performance metal riser doorsets. Perfect for concealing fire-rated riser doors, access panels, and internal doors in corridors, landings, and other access areas; Quadra+ is supplied as an integral, four-sided frame and door system, pre-constructed to form a single robust unit. Ideal for hidden commercial access solutions, Quadra+ is designed and manufactured to the highest standards.

The vibrant, ivory-coloured façade of a new healthcare facility in Cornwall posed no problem for the Renderplas range of coloured PVCu external render beads. Renderplas provided a decorative and durable solution to match the through-coloured render of the £1.9m building. In addition to enhancing the building’s fresh-looking façade, ivory-coloured Renderplas beading has ensured straight, durable joints, corners and edges on all external rendering. The PVCu material is scratch resistant and will not discolour over time, so any exposed joints and edges will continue to complement the colour of the façade indefinitely.

New Era cradles were used to lay a level decking system on a roof terrace that had natural sloped drainage. We used UC4 treated external swedish softwood battens and composite decking to ensure long lasting and maintenance free-use.

State of the art 18,000 capacity stadium combining 2 complimentary grey GRC effect PPC tones for external rainscreen panels.Finishes: Y4313I Light Grey Natural Concrete and Y4317I Dark Grey Natural Concrete

The main auditorium of the Theatre has been refurbished with 900 new seats, sound desks and lighting systems, as well as the installation of a café, licensed bar and TV gallery. The foyer, studio theatre and entrance areas have been modernised. As part of the project, Gradus was chosen to supply and fit continuity LED step lighting to provide a contemporary linear effect and complement the new modern interior of the theatre. Not only does step lighting add to the design, but it also allows customers and staff to move around safely in darkened lighting conditions.

Rockpanel non-combustible external facades dresses the contemporary redevelopment and extension of an existing Grade II Listed building, harmonizing old with new, bringing a crisp style and warmth to this important regional health and care hub.

The benefits of natural daylight far outweigh those from artificial light. Natural daylight can have an effect on both your mental and physical health. We therefore outline below a few of the best ways to harness the benefits of this free resource, Natural Daylight, with your home or place of work.

Gradus, has installed LED Step Lighting & LED Architectural Lighting at the historic Alhambra Theatre in Dunfermline. The theatre, which recently celebrated its centenary, has undergone a refurbishment, which involved the use of several Gradus products to enhance its overall aesthetic.The Gradus ATD71L Aluminium Step Profile has been installed on the steps of the theatre, offering both upward and downward-facing illumination. This enables patrons to easily locate their seats, while also creating an attractive and inviting glow inside the theatre. In addition, the Gradus DLA45 Aluminium Architectural Lighting profile has been installed within the floors to illuminate the aisles and walkways, providing wayfinding assistance, and adding a subtle touch of elegance to enhance the theatre experience. Both profiles were installed with Gradus’s brand-new Impression LED system, featuring a 5w spotless LED tape in red.

Gradus has provided LED Step Lighting solutions for a new cross-media venue based in Nottingham, creating an atmospheric lighting effect while aiding wayfinding.Confetti X, a £5m complex at Confetti Institute of Creative Technologies, part of Nottingham Trent University, offers students state-of-the-art technology for esports production, content creation and other emerging technologies like virtual production. The 100-seater venue features a large video wall for 4k broadcast complete with LED wings and hosts amateur and professional esports tournaments.The Gradus ATD121L Aluminium Step Profile was supplied and fitted on the steps in the seating area, featuring the company’s 5w Gradus Impression 3000k Warm White commercial-grade LED tape to ensure long-lasting reliability. A selection of control equipment was supplied, including an RF controller with a wireless hand-held remote, enabling the theatre to control and adjust the lighting as required.

After the demolition of existing buildings which had been used as rehearsal and recording studios a development of flexible commercial space and residential units was approved in Lamb Walk, Bermondsey.The ChallengeThe commercial element of the approved mixed use development was on the ground floor below three floors of residential properties. Adding more light to this commercial office space would give an extra dimension.The solutionWorking with the developer we helped improve the working environment with elegant walk on units. In order to maximise the light that the office space would benefit from we combined the External Walk On Glass Floors and a range of Multi-Panel Rooflights with Glass Beam Supports. This created an eye-catching feature both internally and externally as well providing the highest level of safety from the strengthened glass used in the walk on the glass floors.Whether you’re at planning or construction stage why not see how we could help you add natural light and space to your commercial office space; you can call us on 01223 792244 or pop us an email via info@nextgenrooflights.co.uk outlining what help you need.

An independent arts and entertainment venue, The Met hosts a mixture of theatre, music and comedy. Since closing in March 2016, the Grade II listed building has undergone a significant refurbishment to create a new and improved performance space and facilities. We supplied our specialist LED step lighting system. Fran Healy, Project Manager for The Met refurbishment, commented: “The LED lighting system has helped to create a safe and inclusive environment for all building users. Gradus were able to offer a full project management service based on our specification needs and we’re very pleased with the end result.”

Step into the sunlight-soaked transformation of Jasmin and Liam’s home, where sustainability meets bespoke design. Passionate about making their home as much of a “Passive House” as possible, the homeowners embarked on a renovation journey and, with help from Vario by VELUX, incorporated our well-loved products—the Rectangular rooflight and Unlimited rooflight in key spots in their home.Read on to discover how Vario rooflights have effortlessly transformed an Edwardian house filled with dark rooms into a spacious sanctuary flooded with natural light and a healthy, sustainable home for the family for many years to come.Brightening up an Edwardian home with Bespoke Flat Roof WindowsIn August 2020, the couple found their dream home and aimed to create a healthy, sustainable lifestyle as they were working from home more than ever. Craving extra space, a larger garden, and a seamless outdoor connection, they sought to transform their house into a haven for both living and thriving. Despite the challenge of an Edwardian layout, they collaborated with Vario by VELUX to infuse every corner with natural light. Using bespoke roof lights, the plan was to flood key spaces like the kitchenA Passive House with Bespoke SkylightsAs seen on UK TV, our couple's journey to revamp their Edwardian home isn't just a makeover—it's a dive into sustainable living to get as close to a "passive house" as possible, which speaks volumes about their commitment to the environment. "I think that maximising natural light in the home is really important," shares Jasmin, underscoring the importance of a bright, naturally illuminated space.Focus on Daylight and VentilationInvesting in natural light goes beyond mere aesthetics; it's a dedicated commitment to enhancing well-being, as expressed by the homeowners; “That kind of investment in natural light really does help with all facets of our life and for our creativity and mental health.” The double-height space benefits from a roof window directly above the staircase, enabling natural light to reach the floor below. We firmly believe that the staircase wouldn't have that impressive "wow factor" without this addition!In a world where spending more time indoors has become the norm, Jasmin and Liam recognised the value of a home that embraces maximum light while retaining energy and warmth, ensuring nothing is lost to the outside atmosphere, and keeping the home energy-efficient.And in line with the idea of a passive house, the rooflight and glazing help to retain heat during winter, keeping heating bills lower.In their home cinema, they have a VELUX window and a made-to-fit VELUX blackout blind; this is a great example of how Vario rooflights can integrate with standard pitched roof windows. Get a complete VELUX solution for your home today.Elevate your home with Vario by VELUXCollaborating with Vario by VELUX means getting a completely personalised and curated flat rooflight solution. With this partnership, Jasmin and Liam have forged a newfound connection to the outdoors and will significantly improve their family's long-term well-being. Their story serves as a roadmap for those looking to infuse a touch of modern technology, bespoke design, and thoughtful interior design into their homes.Ask our daylight expertsFeeling inspired? See how Vario by VELUX can transform any space with our Design A Rooflight tool, or Book a Call with our daylight experts today to discover how we can help you.Please note: Our installation service is currently only available in selected southern areas of the UK.

When proposing the architectural design, one challenge for Nickel 28 was how best to implement effective lighting into the large warehouse facility. Aiming to limit reliance on electric and artificial lighting in an effort to reduce energy consumption, daylighting solutions became a key consideration. Kingspan Light + Air, understanding the needs of the client, delivered a bespoke solution that satisfied the specific needs of the warehouse facility by helping to maximise on natural lighting. Implementing the Kingspan Day-Lite Kick wall light system horizontally across the loading bays in the warehouse enabled the facility to maximise on natural light without glare.

External noise has been kicked into touch by a bespoke secondary glazing system, supplied by Granada Glazing, at the historic Stock Exchange Hotel in central Manchester owned by two prominent footballers.Due to the hotel’s city centre location on Norfolk Street close to the Royal Exchange Theatre, noise insulation from traffic and late-night revellers was a key requirement to create a quieter, more comfortable experience for guests. The original single-glazed timber box sash primary windows were retained due to the building’s listed status and a desire to retain the stone building’s character.

Re-designed by Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects, Metalskolen conference centre on North Zealand, Denmark, has undergone a complete transformation. The new, contemporary interior features a total of 2,300m2 15mm Oak Classic plank flooring, fitted throughout circulation and breakout areas as well as in all conference rooms. Delivered unfinished, the solid oak flooring was finished on-site using Junckers’ Rustic Oil in White to create a pale floor which reflects a lot of natural light. True to architectural traditions commonly applied in the Nordic countries, SHL has created an inclusive and nurturing space, providing the perfect setting for learning, reflection and relationship building. Not only concerned with light and aesthetics, SHL base their work on democracy, welfare, sustainability and social responsibility, a commitment which results in buildings with a high degree of wellbeing. A light-coloured floor helps enhance lighting levels, reducing the need for artificial light and therefore saves energy. In contrast to a dark surface, which absorbs and holds heat and subsequently releases it back into the room, a pale floor will not contribute to overheating, reducing the need for air conditioning systems. With a perfectly smooth surface, a solid wood floor from Junckers cannot harbour dust or mites. As an all-natural material, wood contributes to an even and balanced indoor climate as it helps maintain temperature in a room and reduces static from any electrical equipment. Junckers’ floors hold the Danish Indoor Climate label and have undergone extensive degassing and odour testing to ensure there are no chemical substances in the flooring. Junckers also complies with EU legislation REACH. 

Artform Urban provided timeless external lighting design at a newly restored care home from Signature Senior Lifestyle in North West, London. The complex restoration project combines the Grade II listed 18th Century Hendon Manor with contemporary luxury accommodation and exceptional care. The result creates a homely and familiar surrounding, designed in line with the Gold Standard Framework from Stirling University, which is specifically for those living with memory loss.The red brick building is steeped in history having been used as an RAF Convalescent Home during WW2 and once housed the England Football Team before their 1966 World Cup win. With this in mind, it was crucial that the restoration was completed to the highest standard and preserved as many original features as possible.The high standard is perpetuated throughout the building grounds which include accessible terraces, green spaces, and paths, providing a relaxing and secluded environment for residents to enjoy. It is here that Artform’s Ashbery lighting range ‘shines’ making the exterior accessible in the dark by providing ambient and inviting light. Path lights have been placed around the leafy garden along the winding paths - wall-mounted versions stand out against the red building walls - and tall pole-mounted pedestrian units line the entrance, all working together to complement the environment. The trio of Ashbery lights brings together advanced LED technology and optics, paying homage to traditional lantern-style lighting. The range, manufactured by Landscape Forms, has been developed in collaboration with Robert A.M. Stern Architects, celebrated masters of modern traditional design, and Fisher Marantz Stone, an internationally recognised award-winning lighting design agency. Hendon care home offers 102 spacious apartments with a variety of layouts, aspects and views to suit everyone. There is also a dedicated dementia care complex with 24 apartments. Amenities include a café and restaurant, private dining room, boutique cinema, pub lounge and numerous seating areas for relaxing or socialising. There is also a hair salon and spa for ensuring residents look and feel their best. Othello Hall and Activity Room provides a big flexible space for a range of activities and events, with stage and seating for up to 60 residents and guests.This was a particularly interesting and rewarding project to be involved with that has ensured the best quality of living and comfort is offered to its residents whilst also preserving an important piece of local history. 

Within an educational environment, natural light creates a comfortable space which can have a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of students and staff. When the existing bitumen roof at East Preston Infant School came to the end of its service life, naturally the decision was made to replace the existing roof and upgrade the rooflights. Kingspan Light + Air introduced 23 Kingspan Classic Skylight Domes into the building enabling the school to embrace natural light, ventilation and smoke management performance benefits.

The Hydro Arena was designed in a way to maximize energy efficiency. The building combines natural ventilation with mechanical ventilation – fresh air enters the building above the entrances, and is ventilated to a higher level. Externally, the Hydro Arena is covered with light translucent panels that emit the effects produced in its interior. All of the building can be lightened, being reflected on the sea, just like a lighthouse.

During the restoration process the external façade was decorated to create high quality light Portland stone and bath stone paint effects, onto the render substrate, using KEIM Restauro Lasur. The subtle stone appearance created by the system will offer unparalleled longevity and protection. The colours are UV stable and therefore will not fade and the coating is moisture vapour permeable so doesn’t trap moisture in the substrate.

“We needed an LED lighting solution that complemented the modern, stylish appearance of the refurbished building interior, but still ensured a safe and inclusive environment. Gradus ensured that the products selected matched our requirements and worked with us to produce a fantastic end result.” Nancy Davies, Marketing Manager for Storyhouse. Storyhouse is Ch brand new £37m cultural centre. Having restored the old 1930’s Chester Odeon building, a Grade 2 listed structure that has been empty since 2007, the building now houses an 800-seat auditorium, a 200-seat studio theatre, a restaurant, two bars and a 100-seat cinema.

The Egyptian Gallery was the first of many projects at the Museum to benefit from a replacement duo-pitch rooflight using Lonsdale’s ThermGard Roof Light System.After having procured roof lanterns of varying quality and with disappointing results from different manufacturers, the Client was determined to establish a design that met their very high criteria for thermal performance and protection of the priceless exhibits from damaging UV light. Whilst wanting the benefits of modern aluminium systems, there was a requirement for a ‘heritage’ appearance so that any replacement roof lanterns mirrored the original timber construction. High performance solar control glass was also specified to reduce harmful UV light to the exhibits below. Solar protection was further enhanced by the fitting of external shading blinds to the overhead glazing which produce the slightly ‘eerie’ affect that can be seen in this image. Such was the success of this initial project, the Client has held Lonsdale as the benchmark by which other roof light manufacturers are measured and we repay this loyalty by ensuring a first class job every time.

The Contemporary Art museum of Munich was inaugurated last May. Its architecture is based on a design and ecological concept. The architect Sauerbruch Hutton chose Barrisol Lumière® to light and enhance the exposed works of the XXth century among which the Andy Wahrol's famous paintings. Indeed, Barrisol Lumière® diffuses the light in a sweet and homogeneous way on the whole exhibition space. Furthermore, the Barrisol sheets are 100%, recyclable and are so perfectly adapted in this modern building turned to sustainable environment.

Project: Pegasus House, Filton Client: Aviation industry client Scope of the project: £42,000 project including five lantern lights Products: em-glaze dual pitched lantern lights

A premier footballer required to let light into his gym, so a Lonsdale Skylight was chosen and the customer was very satisfied.

Riverside Heights is a collection of contemporary six and seven storey apartment buildings in a Norwich riverside setting. Timber cladding on several flanks of these structures needed to be replaced with fire-safe facades which had to match those being removed as closely as possible. Rockpanel were able to fulfil the brief using five super-realistic surface designs from its Woods Collection. 

External door hardware face constant environmental challenges, enduring exposure to pollution, corrosive salt air in coastal regions, and the relentless elements. Unlike their internal counterparts, external hardware requires special attention to maintain optimal functionality and appearance.PROACTIVE MEASURES FOR LONGEVITY:ortunately, these issues can be easily avoided with a proactive approach to care and maintenance. Implementing regular tender loving care (TLC) with the right products can make a significant difference in preventing complications and ensuring customer satisfaction.HOW TO MITIGATE COMMON ISSUES:TEA STAINING AND FLASH RUST ON HARDWARETea staining, a common cosmetic issue on the surface of stainless steel, doesn’t compromise structural integrity but can affect the hardware’s aesthetics. To address this concern:Regular Cleaning: Tea staining can be avoided with routine cleaning. Use a soft cloth and mild soapy water to gently clean the hardware.Proper Drying: After cleaning, ensure thorough drying with a clean, soft cloth to prevent residue accumulation.Correct Cleaning Technique: Rub or wipe the hardware in the direction of the brush or polish lines to maintain its appearance.By incorporating these simple yet effective practices into your hardware maintenance routine, you can extend the lifespan of your external door hardware, promoting customer satisfaction and minimizing the need for costly call-backs. Remember, a little care goes a long way in preserving the integrity and aesthetics of your hardware.

Simple design and soft light… The Victoria & Albert museum of London, famous for Art and Design, has recently renewed its art gallery and its coffee shop. The challenge of Gareth Hoskins' architects was to bring natural light into this space without damaging the exposed works, drawing 400 years of history. Thus, the architect imagined and created lighting paths and wells of light using Barrisol Lumière® ceiling. Today, the place benefits from a soft and pleasant light. A Barrisol® matt stretched ceiling offers a simple and minimalistic design on the remaining surface.

Kingspan Light + Air worked on project jewel at Changi International Airport in Singapore. One of the most innovative project features is the distinctive dome-shaped facade, made entirely of glass and steel. Our team worked with the architects and project team to specify and install over 100 Lumera ventilation windows. The Lumera ventilation windows also operate as an integral element of a wider Smoke and Heat Exhaust Vent (SHEV) system.

A light lift is a self-contained winch used to raise and lower chandeliers and other types of luminaire or sculptures, providing easy access for cleaning and maintenance. More than a simple rope, a light lift is designed with safety in mind, adhering to stringent UK safety regulations, contributing to a safe working environment for employees.