"finishes"

Addagrip Terraco were delighted to see our BBA approved Terrabound Resin Bound porous surfacing installed at Constitution Hill as part of the new East-West Cycle Superhighway. The project will run through central London from Tower Hill to Lancaster Gate. The installation of this new stretch of the cycle path runs alongside Green Park to provide a safe route for cyclists from Buckingham Palace to Wellington Arch.BBA approved Terrabound Resin Bound surfacing was selected to provide over 2,200m2 of smooth, seamless, porous paving that would be hard wearing and provide good slip resistance for the cyclists. The natural aggregate finish in a 6mm Rhine Gold complements the location alongside Green Park and will provide a low maintenance surface in this very busy location.Working for Transport for London, F M Conway carried out the installation over a 9-day period working in one of the busiest tourist areas in Central London and during a period of very hot weather. The team started at Wellington Arch/Commonwealth Memorial end of Constitution Hill and finished the last 185m stretch outside Buckingham palace on Friday 8th July. Whilst the crowds gathered to watch the Household Cavalry ride up Constitution Hill from Wellington Arch, St James’s, London to Buckingham Palace there was also much public interest in seeing the team’s coordinated system of installing the resin bound surface and watching the transformation as it happened.The work was completed alongside the existing path that runs along Green Park so a metal edging detail was used, separating the Resin Bound surface from the hoggin surface around the mature trees that line the roadside.

Mono M310/M311 Glass InfillSt George’s junior school is an independent Roman Catholic school with a high standard of facilities. Construction of ‘The Ark’ provided a new early years teaching block, which includes modern classrooms, a dedicated IT suite, a new assembly room and outdoor learning areas. The two-storey building has a staircase at each end and Delta Balustrades’ Mono™ system was specified with powder-coated steel balusters and 11.5mm toughened and laminated glass infill panels. The Mono™ system handrails were provided in oak to offer a warmer finish in the primary school environment and each staircase features a dual handrail with one handrail mounted at a 600mm height for the children and the other in parallel at 900mm for the teachers. The Ark features an outdoor teaching area at first floor level with a balcony accessed from the internal classrooms. Once again, Delta Balustrades’ Mono™ system was specified with powder coated balusters to match the grey of the window casings. The 11.5mm toughened and laminated glass infill panels have no handrails but have been installed at a height of 1500mm to provide additional edge protection. A further small triangular balcony at the side of the building has been specified with the same system as the main first floor balcony. At ground level, the building features steps and ramps and a combination of Mono™ balusters and Orbis™ handrails with a Sigma stainless steel finish have been used to provide guarding, with 10mm toughened glass infill panels.Finally, the stone steps leading to the nursery classrooms were specified with an Orbis™ handrail.

A high specification sound absorption solution...GRAHAM Construction were appointed to lead the refurbishment of Senate House, part of the University of London which is to house the School of Oriental & African Studies. SOAS is the world’s leading institution for languages, cultures and societies of Asia, Africa and the Middle East.The plan is to improve the student experience significantly by offering state-of-the-art facilities, with a high specification sound absorption solution for reverberation control in the Teaching Rooms, Seminar Rooms, Meeting Halls, Study Units and Lecture Theatres.Increased sound absorption helps to improve speech transmission quality, sometimes as much as 35%, control echo as well as background noise and reduce reverberation times in teaching areas.The SOAS project will accommodate a 25% planned increase of the cosmopolitan student numbers, with staff and students together on one centrally located campus, so reverberation control is paramount in this instance.We have undertaken the supply & installation of 2,650 sq metres of the Absorb-R GypLine αw Acoustic Plaster along site our installation partner UK Acoustics. The Absorb-R GypLine αw system includes 25mm and 39mm Acoustical Absorption Boards which can be fitted direct to soffit, to a shallow narrow void track-line carrier ceiling or a deep void MF Ceiling Grid. The boards are then sanded and treated with a 3mm acoustic spray plaster with a choice of finishes. The Absorb-R GypLine αw System finishes can then be colour coated to any RAL top coat colour and provides a virtually seamless monolithic ceiling with high and exceptional sound absorption levels that meet or exceed typical reverberation criteria.

A new family-run hotel in Iceland’s Haukadalur Valley was designed to sit seamlessly within the extraordinary surrounding landscape. Hotel Geysir operates under carefully considered environmental objectives, including resource management, reduction of waste, increased recycling, and selecting products and services with a low environmental impact. Our popular Twin Herringbone flooring in Black Oak forms the perfect backdrop to the interior, which is as dramatic as the natural landscape surrounding the hotel. All rooms and suites have large windows to make the stunning scenery the main feature throughout the hotel. The building was designed by architect Brynhildur Sólveigardóttir, and interior design by Leifur Welding. Made from Junckers’ classic two-stave flooring, each floorboard consists of two rows of staves, one full-length and one with two half-length staves. This gives Twin Herringbone an authentic pattern and elegant. Delivered with a hardwearing factory finished surface ready to walk on as soon as it is installed, a Twin Herringbone floor has the advantage of saving on costly and time-consuming installation work as the floor does not have to be sanded, filled, and treated after installation. A pre-finished floor is far superior in terms of durability with optimal wear resistance and a uniform appearance. It also has a significantly shorter installation time compared to an unfinished floor, with minimal inconvenience. Each Twin Herringbone stave measures 129mm wide x 516.6mm long x 14 or 22mm thick. II is ideal for use in all rooms of the house except bathrooms and can be used with all major underfloor heating systems. Twin Herringbone feels warm and solid underfoot, the perfect backdrop to a luxurious hotel. 

In July 2022, Medspace was awarded the FF&E package for the New University of Bristol Dental School.Working closely with the University and construction company Kier, Medspace were tasked to design, manufacture and install bespoke Reception Desks, 119 Dental Bays, Worktops, Roller Racking and HTM71 Storage as well as fit Group 2 items such as hooks, mirrors, grab rails and soap dispensers.Once again, cleanliness, clever design and functionality were paramount in the successful execution of the project. The existing building spanned six floors and hosted a series of challenging shaped rooms and obstacles to overcome. Working alongside the Kier design and site teams, Medspace worked to fit all bespoke items within the existing fabric of the building, producing more than 160 designs to meet the exact needs of the university staff and students. The communication between the design and the installation team played a huge part in ensuring that the highest level of finish was achieved with weekly meetings held to iron out issues before they got to site. This high standard is immediately apparent as you enter the building and view the 'centre piece' main reception desk, which features a solid surface desk with whitewashed birch panelling, surrounded by a fully bespoke structure featuring fully integrated services, matching the same birch finish to compliment the integral desk.The £27million purpose-built facility near Bristol Temple Meads train station was successfully opened in 2023 following extensive renovations. Medspace is proud to have been part of creating this exciting upgrade for students and staff, incorporating bespoke design and the latest equipment spread across 7,300 square meters of space.

CALA Homes Sold on Tobermore Complementary Facing Brick & Paving SolutionCALA Homes developed Kinleith Mill, a beautiful and distinctive new housing development in Currie to the west of Edinburgh, and in keeping with the housebuilders high quality standards, the team wanted to ensure that the most appropriate building and hard landscaping materials were sourced for the site. CALA Homes has been developing aspirational and award-winning homes across the UK for over 30 years, earning the company an excellent reputation. Tobermore’s Scottish Sales team introduced the housebuilder to the superior facing brick and paving products produced at Tobermore which surpassed expectation. Tobermore’s timeless Lansdowne facing brick was selected for incorporation on the properties at Kinleith Mill and vibrant Pedesta block paving was specified as a complementary hard landscaping solution.Alan Cole, Commercial Manager at CALA Homes, explained Yeoman McAllister Architects design concept for the project: “The design was inspired by the sites history and the idyllic location next to the Water of Leith in Currie.“The development offers a unique collection of four and five bedroom detached homes, three and four bedroom semi-detached houses, three bedroom waterside terraced properties and a select group of apartments, all new to the CALA portfolio.”The exteriors of the Kinleith Mill homes were designed with a combination finish of facing brick and dash. Alan explained that their choice of facing brick was made very easy when they were presented with Tobermore’s Lansdowne product. Lansdowne undergoes a tumbling manufacturing process that produces a charming weathered look and is ideal for applications that require a warm, elegant finish.Alan commented:“The aged aesthetic created a rustic look and we thought it was the perfect choice for the style and character desired at Kinleith Mill. While the inside of the properties were designed with modern interiors and amenities, we wanted to bring a touch of tradition to the exterior.Alan Cole, Commercial Manager at CALA Homes“In addition, we examined existing projects that Tobermore’s Lansdowne facing brick was used on and it was clear to see that the product performed well over time and showed no fading or discolouration.” Tobermore’s Lansdowne offers excellent colour retention capabilities due to the fact that the best iron oxide pigments available are sourced to produce the vibrant colours available within the range to ensure that colour is retained throughout the lifetime of a product.As well as the buildings, Lansdowne was incorporated on the bridge which connects the homes to the tranquil countryside surrounding the development. This created continuity across the aesthetics on site.The landscaping was an important element on site as the exterior of a property is crucial when appealing to new home buyers. Alan noted: “Paving was an obvious choice for the hard landscaping requirement as we knew it would enhance the appearance of the site more so than alternatives such as tarmac. Paving also offered benefits in that it is hard-wearing and should any blocks ever need replaced in the future, it is relatively easy and inexpensive to do so.”CALA Homes selected Tobermore’s Pedesta block paving as an attractive and versatile hard landscaping material. Pedesta is manufactured with a stunning, smooth finish and a rectangular profile that allows the creation of distinctive laying patterns. Alan noted:“Pedesta was the ideal paving product as it offered a beautiful yet simplistic finish that complemented the brick façade of the properties.”Alan Cole, Commercial Manager at CALA HomesThe properties at Kinleith Mill were highly sought after, ranging in price from £450,000- £670,000.Alan reflected on the project: “We couldn’t have hoped for a better result. Kinleith Mill is another development which we are incredibly proud of.“The products and the assistance provided by Tobermore was first class and we would have no hesitation working with the manufacturer again on future projects.”

Washroom delivered new washrooms, colourful staff shower facilities and two new reception for a Mayfair office refurb. Washroom's highly engineered Marcato SGL shower cubicles with full height bright yellow doors and light grey pilasters and partitions. Each spacious shower cubicle includes an integrated Legato bench in the same bright yellow. Forza solid grade laminate Z-shaped lockers with key-operated locks were specified in two shades of grey to create a striking stripe effect within each bank of lockers. Solid surface vanity units in a light grey concrete-effect finish with inset sinks complete the contemporary new changing area.

Senior Project Architect Stephen Herbert from HOK were responsible for the design, “We were looking for a ceiling manufacturer that could provide a full range of ceiling systems appropriate to the specific requirements of the function of each space. We were also very careful about specification with regards compliance to the Government’s ‘Health Technical Memoranda’ for the NHS.” The main contractor Skanska said, “We specified Rockfon because of their technical suitability, appearance and easy maintenance. We’re pleased with the finished installation and would certainly specify Rockfon on future projects.” Rockfon Blanka®, Rockfon® MediCare® Standard, Rockfon® MediCare® Plus Rockfon® System MaxiSpan™

ASF manufactured and supplied the ASF 211 5 Rail Quayside Post System for the above project. Sited on a raised plinth, the baseplate option was chosen. The client decided that all the rails were to be the same diameter - in this case 48mm. The rails were grouped on the lower part of the posts to reduced the risk of 'roll through' into the water and as such increasing the safety for children and young people at the waters edge. The posts are 100% recycled cast iron and are 100% recyclable. Cast iron can be recycled indefinitely with no loss in property. Posts were hand finished in zinc rich metal primer and ASF metal shield top coat. Rails were left galvanised which offers a pleasing contrasting effect.

Ninety One, previously Investec Asset Management, recently relocated to impressive new offices in London’s business district. Creating agile working space, Style collaborated with HLW architects and main contractor Overbury, to install three Dorma Hüppe Variflex moveable wall systems, giving freedom to create two individual meeting rooms, or one large open area. Maximising light flooding into this beautifully designed office, one operable wall is glass, whilst the others are finished respectively in a stunning Kvadrat Maharam Merit fabric and Fluted Timber veneer, matching surrounding joinery. Ensuring meetings can run concurrently, the walls provide impressive 59dB acoustic integrity.

Heathside and Lethbridge is one of London’s biggest estate regeneration programmes, and is planned to be carried out over six phases. The regeneration works being undertaken by Family Mosaic and the London Borough of Lewisham are transforming the estates into an attractive mixed tenure development, with over 1200 high-quality private and affordable homes.Phase three saw 218 homes built including 102 homes for social rent, the rest being for sale and shared ownership. Phase 4a and 4b saw 236 new homes built.Shield Membranes supplied the waterproofing, insulation & external finishes to all external areas with great efficiency, making sure everything was on site as and when it was required in order to keep each phase on track.

We’ve installed 99 URIMAT Ecoplus waterless urinals installed across 33 washrooms (3 urinals per washroom) at Cannon Place in London. This is a modern office development cantilevered over Cannon Street train station with a range of large professional City of London occupiers.There are 4 stairwell cores containing washrooms with 1 per floor over 8 floors plus one washroom in basement level -2. All urinals are installed on specialist toughened glass IPS panels to match existing washroom finishes in RAL 9010 colour.Each urinal saves up to 100,000 litres of water per year as well as offering a considerably enhanced washroom experience for users.

The new store was built as a main contractor’s design and build shell construction, with a traditional Morrison fit out, and involved working with two design teams simultaneously. The store was one of the first new stores to incorporate Morrison’s new “hybrid heat reclaim system”, and also incorporated a series of photovoltaic panels and wind turbines on roof areas to contribute to the renewable energy targets required by the local Planning Authority for this new development.DrillFast low profile A4/316 stainless steel fasteners were utilised as part of the design, with lacquered heads blending in with the panel for a barely noticeable finish."Thank you all at Fixfast - you make my job easier"Paul Guyton - Senior Designer

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

High performance subfloor preparation products and adhesive from F. Ball have been used to create a high quality floor finish at Sky News studios. To provide a firm, smooth base over which the floorcovering could be installed, Stopgap 700 Superflex flexible levelling compound was installed over the plywood subfloor, having first being primed using Stopgap P131 general purpose primer. Once the levelling compound cured, wood-effect LVTs and Norament rubber sheet floorcoverings were installed across the room occupied by cameras and production crew. Styccobond F58 acrylic emulsion adhesive, was used to ensure the rubber sheets would remain firmly in place.

Addagrip approved contractor, Resin & Rock were delighted to be appointed to install tree pit resin bound surfacing around the base of a number of the London Plane trees on the newly redeveloped Exhibition Road in the Royal Borough of Chelsea and Kensington.A 6mm Lucerne Silver was used to replace the existing self-binding gravel finish to fulfil the clients’ requirements for a porous, hard wearing and aesthetically pleasing surface capable of tolerating the high pedestrian flows in this busy street. A super-flex collar was included in the installations to allow for tree growth and to ensure that there was no loose aggregate.The low maintenance paving provides a seamless surface with excellent slip resistance and can be easily kept clean.The installation was completed in November 2014

A.J Wells manufactured three hundred square meters of coloured vitreous enamel cladding covering a lift shaft in the new students centre at the London School of Economics and Political Science on its Aldwych campus.The striking building, known as the Saw Swee Hock Student Centre (SAW), was designed by Dublin based practice O’Donnell & Tuomey Architects with the aim to transform the student social experience by creating a student hub at the heart of LSE’s campus. The centre houses a number of student facilities and offices including a gym, media centre, internet cafe and a pub!Vitreous enamel was specified for the external cladding of the lift shaft because of its durability, low maintenance and unique, vibrant surface finish.

Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) is the largest of Scotland’s seven regional transport partnerships. In addition to operating a number of specialist bus services they are also responsible for the Glasgow Subway.AJ Wells produced 600 square metres of curved white vitreous enamel panels for Kelvinhall Station. Covering the length of the station’s platform the cladding system incorporated a coloured vitreous enamelled platform finder and was finished with a powder coated aluminium extruded cover trim. In addition to surveying, designing and manufacturing the system AJ Wells installed the cladding using specially designed access equipment and scaffold tower.KEY FEATURES: • Subway cladding • Curved vitreous enamelA.J WELLS SERVICES: • Survey • Design and manufacture • Installation

Location: Lyons Place, Westminster, London NW8 8NLProject Type: Mixed Use Development Cost: £36m Products: S-Canopy SFX Soffit Cladding, SFX Rainscreen Vertical Cladding, SFX Soffit Cladding, SFX Support System, Circular Column Casings Finish: S-Canopy, Soffit & Rainscreen: Syntha Pulvin RAL 9002 Matt Grey WhiteColumn Casing: Syntha Pulvin RAL 8080 Matt Metallic Bronze Fire rating: A2 s1, d0 Non-combustible(Reaction to Fire EN BS 13501-1:2018). Client: Almacantar Ltd Architect: Farrells Main Contractor: Galliford Try Sub Contractor: CCS Facades

We were contacted by a customer in Bucharest trying to source our Ipe Timber Tiles. He was concerned about durability as Romania has extremes of hot and cold, and torrential rainfall. We reassured him that even with a minimum gap drainage would be sufficient and the suspended tiles system would ensure longevity. He selected the Ipe timber tiles mounted onto fixed height 14mm Plastic Pad. To protect against the extreme weather the tiles were then treated with a generic wood preserve on site, giving them a rich, luxurious finish and producing the "treasure chest" George Ezra would be proud of. https://www.wallbarn.com/case-study/timber-tiles-cata-romania/

The Orangery is a Grade I listed building and it’s a key attribute of Kew Gardens as an UNESCO World Heritage Site.During its renovations the Client brief included removal of existing fabric acoustic baffles and installation of a new bespoke acoustic system.Soundis were contracted to supply and install Absorb-R GypLine aw Acoustic Spray Plaster to the ceiling within The Orangery.Absorb-R GypLine aw Acoustic Spray Plaster was chosen due to its seamless finish providing amazing reductions in reverberation times whilst blending into the look of the whole ceiling which gave a sophisticated but modern without compromising the aesthetics of the building. Installation was carried out by our installation partner UK Acoustic Systems

Whitbread Plc’s Premier Inn chain is one of the UK’s biggest and fastest growing Hotel companies, with over 700 hotels nationwide.A key part of the Premier Inn brand is the guarantee of a good night’s sleep – something that is impossible without decent sound proofing and acoustic flooring.To make good on that promise of a good night’s sleep, the Soundis high density Dry Screed flooring is a standard specification for Premier Inns. The robust monolithic finish provides a high density floating floor with a remarkably shallow profile. This particular Premier Inn in Lewisham required the fitting of dryscreed boards to all upper floors of the project, over 1,500m2 in total. Installation was carried out by UK Acoustic Systems.

The ModernGlide MG100 Top Hung Double Point Movable Acoustic Wall provides seamless room dividing options and is ideal for separating meeting room space.Movable Walls Key Facts & Specifications:Acoustic reduction from 37dB to 58dBTop-hung with no floor trackFixing to beam on concrete soffitPanel widths of 650mm to 1250mmHeight up to 12000mmFull height or inset pass door optionsSemi-electric top and bottom seal optionsVersatile stacking via double point suspensionFinishes include melamine, laminate, veneer and magnetic wipe boardIntegral glazing options30 minute and 1 hour fire rating options

The award-winning Skelton Lakes motorway services near Leeds is using bespoke manufactured architectural linings from the Pendock Linea range. GRG pilasters were specified to provide a consistent finish between shop fronts, whilst integrating with the dry lined walls above. They also include a 30mm radius on each corner to ensure there are no sharp edges and a stainless-steel kick plate at the base.GRP bulkheads are used to conceal the steel floor beams at first-floor level, which were manufactured to follow the gentle curve incorporated in the design of the shop fronts. By using GRP it allows a small amount of flex to ease installation and ensures the minimum additional mass is added to the structure.

Harlequin worked closely with the Royal Academy of Dance throughout the whole planning and development process. After working with Harlequin for After working with Harlequin for over 30 years, the RAD knew that they wanted Harlequin floors in their new studios. Harlequin supplied and installed over 1200m2 of Harlequin Activity sprung floor and Harlequin Cascade vinyl performance floor with BioCote antimic antimicrobial protection. Harlequin water cut the mirrors to fit the wall mounted ballet barres directly to the walls to create a seamless and neat finish. Along with the studios, RAD’s new home for dance has a 193-seat pe 193-seat performance space with Harlequin Activity and Harlequin Cascade to showcase the RAD’s dancing talent. 

The Hurlford Avenue new build project, situated on the former Garscadden Primary School site, truly harnesses innovation and design. This ‘Modern Methods of Construction’ project, completed in partnership with CCG, showcases technical prowess and constructional excellence.Garscadden Primary School closed back in 2017 but the 1930s school building remained standing. Spotting the potential for something impressive on the site, Glasgow Housing Association proposed a modern replacement – a portfolio of properties.The key requirement was to build modern, energy efficient homes which would provide much-needed affordable housing in the sought-after area of Dumbarton and make a significant difference to the local community.After extensive planning, focusing on matching an appropriate insulation system with a complementary finish, K Systems devised a comprehensive delivery plan using our unrivalled experience and expertise.CCG fabricated the building off-site with timber kits and incorporated elements from our Aricco system, with the final finish being completed on-site. This approach was advantageous for a few reasons, including the speed of construction and a reduction in required labour.Hurlford Avenue is a prime example of our experience with off-site modular builds and our project-specific approach to EWI solutions. We brought Glasgow Housing Association’s vision to life and delivered 28 houses and 42 flats for mid-market rent.Our ServiceThe build of the Hurlford Avenue development wasn’t without its challenges. Precision planning was required to ensure minimal disruption to the residents in surrounding estates. All traffic ways remained free for passage and noise pollution was kept to a minimum.During the build, our team encountered some detailing challenges. However, working directly with the contractor and main contractor, these challenges were quickly resolved by key colleagues within our Technical Team, and the build remained on schedule and of the highest quality.From specification and design to planning, delivery and evaluating, our team transformed a derelict site to a contemporary multi-dwelling development that rejuvenated the Dumbarton area.“I would like to thank everyone on the K Systems technical support team for their contribution in accomplishing the Aricco System project at Hurlford Avenue. The regular visits from senior technicians always go a long way to keeping any project in check and it makes the job of our management much easier by having honest, professional judgement to go back to our guys, with well earned praise on this occasion. Everyone was onboard from the outset in working around any potential difficulties and you will agree it shows in the final results.”Garry Barton, Contractor.Technical Project DetailsAs the client of this project, Scotland based construction company CCG, approached K Systems to provide a suitable façade solution that would complement their design. A build with timber kits and a drained ventilated cavity system was specified, along with a silkolitt thin coat render finish.CCG are renowned for off-site manufacturing (OSM) and manufactured the kits from their production site in near-by Cambuslang. They sourced the correct material according to our exact specification. CCG’s ‘iQ’ System was chosen, which is designed with a fabric-first approach where greater tolerances are determined by fewer junctions and thermal bridges to deliver enhanced U-values and significantly improve airtightness. By incorporating OSM and the iQ system into this project, it is just a small insight into our unrivalled knowledge and expert approach that we take to fulfil the requirements of our clients.For the supporting façade, the K Systems Aricco system was specified - a drained ventilated cavity system perfectly suited for use in low rise buildings, particularly new build projects and timber framed construction. The Aricco system is also the most compatible with offsite/modular construction techniques and boasts an A2-s1, d0 fire rating and therefore complies with the latest building regulations, ensuring the safety of all residents.The finish was just as important as the façade system, with the cost-effective, industry-leading Silkolitt thin coat render specified. Silkolitt renders provide a contemporary finish to new-build applications, something this project very much required to modernise the area. Silkolitt is simple to apply, and its hydrophobic properties makes the render low maintenance. It also has excellent vapour permeability, allowing the Hurlford Avenue properties to breathe and avoid interstitial condensation. It is the most flexible system on the market, making cracking over its lifetime less likely and therefore delivering a pleasing aesthetic with outstanding longevity.The combinations specified by the K Systems team resulted in the build of impressive dwellings boasting a U-value of 0.13W/m ² K – meaning homes were easier and cheaper to heat, a particularly attractive benefit given the current cost of living crisis.

The refurbishment scheme at Buckley View in Smallbridge was completed in March 2022 and is one of a series of demonstrator projects that Rochdale Boroughwide Housing are completing.These projects are part of an ongoing approach to improve the energy efficiency of homes and reduce carbon emissions, helping to identify the best ways to meet Greater Manchester’s 2038 target to be carbon neutral.The scheme has seen 23 bungalows in Buckley View receive investment to help improve the energy efficiency of the homes and reduce carbon emissions using a whole-house, fabric first approach.The work carried out included replacing cavity wall and roof insulation, installing External Wall Insulation (EWI), upgrading ventilation and installing new windows and doors.We worked in close partnership with our approved installer Profac and provided a suitable EWI solution for the project and complementary finish. A brick slip finish was utilised, which was supplied in three colours to totally refresh the facades.The bungalows in Buckley View were totally transformed and will enjoy increased energy efficiency, improved thermal comfort, reduced fuel consumption for residents and, as a result, lower carbon emissions.Our ServiceK Systems prides itself on having an inspiring and effective solution for every style, and this project is just one example of how it provides the flexibility to fulfil any specific design criteria.We tailored the specification process for the project based on the set and very specific requirements of Rochdale Boroughwide Housing and its properties, and every single request / objective of the client was not only met but exceeded in the refurbishment.The design and delivery of the refurbishment not only received 100% satisfaction ratings from all parties involved, but has also gained external recognition for its excellence and already been shortlisted for three prestigious industry awards:Large Scale Project of the Year at the North West Energy Efficiency AwardsSustainability Project of the Year at the Aico HomeLink Community Awards 2022Best Retrofit Initiative at the Northern Housing AwardsOverall, an outstanding and successful refurbishment by our team that has given Buckley View in the North West a new lease of life.Ryan Robson at Rochdale Boroughwide Housing, said:“We are delighted and incredibly proud to have worked on the refurb project at Buckley View which has been recognised with three award nominations so far. These nominations are a testament to the great partnership approach by all involved parties, the highest levels of construction quality showcased throughout, and the exceptional performance outcomes of the entire project, for the housing residents, housing provider and for the wider area.”Technical Project DetailsThe external façade and sheathing boards on the existing, poorly insulated timber frame structures were removed. The sheathing boards were replaced with A1 rated carrier boards and the K Systems M, Mineral Wool Insulation System was specified.This system not only generates exceptional thermal performance and provides high levels of fire resistance (A2-s1, d0), but also boasts exceptional environmental qualities – by choosing it, we not only demonstrate our innate understanding of best-suited solutions but our dedication to sustainable working.The bespoke system specified for Buckley View was designed using 110mm non-combustible mineral wool insulation to meet the desired u-value of 0.20W/m2K, improved from 0.43W/m2K. This meant homes were more energy efficient, warmer, and less expensive to heat – a major bonus given the current cost of living crisis.For the finish, we specified a unique finish of VBriQ+ clay brick slips. This cost-effective, lightweight traditional clay brick slip system replicates traditional brick construction on low-rise buildings like the Buckley View bungalows.Our unique and innovative VBriQ+ clay brick slip finish was specified due to its robust, durable characteristics and wide range of colours. The brick slips were supplied in three colours, which totally transformed the facades aesthetically and with their low maintenance and element resistance qualities, will ensure the homes avoid cracking and maintain their appearance over time.At K Systems we are confident that we have the inspiring solution for every style, and this project is just one example of how we provide the flexibility to fulfil any specific design criteria.We tailored the specification process for the project based on the requirements of Rochdale Boroughwide Housing and their properties. Bespoke technical detailing included use of pistol brick slips around window reveals with a soldier course detail specified above window heads to create a contrasting aesthetic feature to the main walls. A band of silicone thincoat render was added as a design feature around the doors– yet again showcasing K Systems’ unrivalled attention to detail.

Client: EncircLocation: Chester, UKYear: 2023Project size: 450 m²Vebro systems: vebroscreed Industrial, vebroflex Decorative UV Plus, vebroflex Comfort UVAs part of its goal to decarbonise by 2025 by using hydrogen in its furnaces, a Chester, UK glass manufacturer has recently undergone an expansion, requiring durable, attractive flooring throughout.Encirc is a leading UK manufacturer of glass containers. Founded in 1998, the company has since grown to become one of the largest and most advanced manufacturers of its kind in Europe.Part of the Vidrala Group, Encirc is based across three sites in Northern Ireland, Italy and Chester, UK. Each year they produce more than 4 billion glass containers for leading global brands, filling many of them for retail across the UK and Europe.As part of the upgrade to the Chester facility, an extension was added that required a new flooring solution to help join the old and new areas of the facility seamlessly.A durable, practical and aesthetically pleasing floor coating solution was required to meet the needs of this modern production facility.Vebro Polymers supplied a package of polyurethane flooring materials as well as a heavy-duty industrial screed for substrate levelling.vebroscreed Industrial, applied at a nominal 10.0 mm across the 450 m2 floor area, is a deep-fill, rapid-setting and hardening, high strength, single-part, cementitious smoothing underlayment screed, that provides a durable sub-floor prior to the installation of resin finishes.vebroflex Decorative UV Plus in Charcoal Grey was chosen for the main area and entrance walkway, and vebroflex Comfort UV in RAL 7037 Dusty Grey was applied in the staff changing area and locker rooms.Both are polyurethane comfort systems, also known as liquid vinyl, are made up from multiple layers of flexible polyurethane resin installed onto a primed substrate or rubber underlay to provide a cushioned effect underfoot.Not only for these systems boast high performance, they also help to enhance the working environment. vebroflex Decorative UV Plus includes tiny polymer beads for a subtle yet attractive finish, while vebroflex Comfort UV features a soft matte finish for a contemporary aesthetic.Quest Industrial Flooring offers a wide range of industrial flooring solutions to suit the huge variety of service conditions required by the demanding industrial industry.Based in Warrington, Cheshire, the team at Quest deliver screeds, high build epoxy coatings and line-marking as well as polishing and grinding of terrazzo and polished concrete flooring.The company’s vast experience in the industrial flooring sector means they are able to offer customers expert advice on the concrete and resin flooring options available, as well as consistently install high quality floor systems on time and on budget.Their attention to detail combined with their aim to provide unrivalled customer service, means customers are supported through their projects from specification through to installation and beyond.

One of the key towers within the prime Nine Elms redevelopment in Lambeth, is Terracotta clad The Atlas which is nothing less of a statement and a local landmark. BackgroundFollowing the international recognition of the Broadcasting Tower building in Leeds that in 2010 won the CTBUH "Best Tall Building" award and became an industry referent, when Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios were given the arduous task of designing The Atlas building in Vauxhall, they knew that the World was watching and that their next joint venture with Downing Construction couldn’t be anything less than a statement and Argeton terracotta was selected as the material of choice for yet another prestigious project. The projectFCB Studios and the Lambeth planning committee wanted to portray the essence of Lambeth’s strong pottery and ceramics industry and of the site’s past which once was home to the Royal Doulton ceramic factory and Argeton Terracotta provided a solution that offered the versatility to respond to the technical challenges of modern high rise construction and ease of installation that would allow to meet a tight programme whilst answering to the aesthetic requirements and fitting in the concept sought.Industry leaders independent façade engineering consultants Wintech worked in the project from its birth and during the development of the scheme ensuring all of the engineering challenges were overcome and they worked together with FCB Studios in developing an algorithm to randomly distribute a mix of glazed and unglazed ceramic finishes, to resemble the speckles often found in traditional pottery. Argeton Terracotta provided a range of colours and finishes to meet the scheme requirements including a specialist hand-fired finish with special glaze for the lower areas of the scheme. Alumet’s record of outstanding delivery of full envelopes for some of the most reputable Main contractors nationwide combined with their over 20 years of expertise led them to be nominated façade contractor for the new build student accommodation tower which they delivered on time and on budget thanks to the cost effectiveness and ease of installation of the Argeton system.SolutionTerracotta is one of the cladding resources of choice in the market because it is a natural and versatile material that gives architects freedom of expression whilst it gives cladding and envelope contractors the advantages of a quick and easy installation process. The Argeton system is one of the principal terracotta systems used Worldwide not only because it is a natural and versatile material but also because it offers a technical and cost-effective solution for the residential, commercial and health and education sectors. Argeton is CE and UKCA marked and one of the most tested systems in the market including a BBA and an EPD. NHBC approved and not subject to any restrictions on building height or proximity to boundaries thanks to its Euro-class A1 Fire certification, it is no surprise Argeton is one of the materials of choice not only in new builds but also for refurbishment or re-clad. Durable and fully recyclable, ISO 14025 and EN 15804 (European BREEAM equivalent) certified, sustainability is at the heart of Argeton’s values.

Heathrow Airport, Hounslow TW6 1QGHeathrow’s plans for expansion at the airport with a third runway to the north-west of the existing two are currently supported by Government policy through the Airports National Policy Statement. Expansion at the airport would create tens of thousands of jobs and billions in economic benefits to the UK.Heathrow Airport, one of the world's busiest and most prominent international airports, requires top-tier access solutions that balance security and aesthetics. Ensuring efficient maintenance and access to utility systems is essential for its seamless operation. This case study highlights the successful collaboration between Heathrow Airport and Rapid Access Ltd, a leading supplier of new flush lock Access Panels with a sleek, discreet finish and a spring-loaded locking mechanism.Challenges:1. Critical Infrastructure: Heathrow Airport is a vital transport hub, serving millions of passengers annually. Access solutions needed to support maintenance without compromising security or aesthetics.2. Efficient Maintenance: The project demanded access panels that allowed for quick and secure access to utility systems, reducing downtime and disruptions.3. Sleek Design: The access solutions had to align with the airport's modern and sleek architectural aesthetics, complementing the overall design.Solution:Rapid Access Ltd, known for their expertise in access solutions, was chosen to address the specific needs of Heathrow Airport. The solution included the supply and installation of new flush lock Access Panels with a discreet finish and a spring-loaded locking mechanism, designed to meet the following key criteria:1. New Flush Lock Access Panels: Rapid Access Ltd provided access panels with a sleek, discreet finish, ensuring functionality and a modern, unobtrusive design.2. Efficiency and Security: The access panels allowed for swift and secure access to utility systems, enhancing operational efficiency while maintaining stringent security standards.3. Architectural Integration: The access solutions seamlessly integrated into the airport's modern architectural design, complementing its aesthetic appeal.Implementation:The supply and installation of new flush lock Access Panels by Rapid Access Ltd were carried out meticulously, ensuring that the sleek and discreet design elements were in harmony with the airport's architectural aesthetics. The locking mechanism was integrated with precision to meet the highest security standards.Conclusion:The collaboration between Heathrow Airport and Rapid Access Ltd exemplified the successful integration of access solutions that balanced functionality, security, and aesthetics for a world-class transportation hub. The installation of new flush lock Access Panels not only met functional needs but also contributed to the airport's overall efficiency, security, and architectural appeal, enhancing the passenger experience. This case study underscores the importance of selecting the right access solutions provider for critical infrastructure projects with specific design requirements.

The Little Chapel in Guernsey was built in 1914 and, at only 16 feet by 9 feet, is said to be “one of the smallest functioning chapels in Europe, if not the world”. The chapel and its unique appeal gained national fame after an article accompanied with a colour photograph was published in the Daily Mirror, and it has since been considered one of, if not the most famous tourist attraction in Guernsey.In 2015, work began to weatherproof the intricate building, with the Protec System specified as the best solution for the job.The ChallengeHaving never been finished by its original builder, Brother Déodat, the chapel has been undergoing a long-term restoration project to create a structurally sound building that retains the beauty of the original vision. Firstly, the foundations were underpinned and properly secured for the first time since they were created over 100 years ago. The next priority was to fix the roof, as described by Pat Johnson, chairman of the Little Chapel Foundation:“The asphalt on the roof was hollow and had to be taken off. The concrete underneath was hollow. We ended up with a substrate of soil and clink, so to repair it we had to go inside and grout all the cracks in the ceiling. [The new roof] comprises three layers of concrete, 340 stainless-steel plugs, a stainless-steel mesh and a final coating of concrete”.The task of making the new concrete surface waterproof fell to local Polyroof approved contractor Sarnian Roofing Ltd. Andy Gavey (Company Director) said about the project:“As a boy I would regularly visit The Little Chapel and I’ve always been blown away by its beauty and character. To get the chance to help restore the building to its full potential is a dream come true for me – this has to be my favourite roofing project yet. Polyroof’s contribution towards the roofing works has meant that we were able to provide a top-quality roofing solution that has done justice to the amazing exterior of the building.”The SolutionWith its ability to be applied directly to the concrete to form a lightweight, seamless and durable waterproofing membrane, Polyroof’s Protec System was a clear choice for waterproofing the chapel roof.The first stage was to make the entire roof area fully watertight. Following a coating of primer to seal the porous concrete surface, the first coat of Protec was applied which incorporated fibreglass reinforcement. After 30 minutes the coating had cured and the second coat was applied to the whole roof area. To areas where new mortar was laid to re-embed the pebbles and seashells, which had been painstakingly removed from the old roof, a coating of Polyfinish was applied to provide extra protection.The architect chose a sanded decorative finish to complement the exterior of the building, which is covered in a mosaic made from seashells, pebbles and broken china. To create this finish, a third coat of Protec was applied and, whilst still wet, Quartz Sand was broadcast into the resin. After brushing off the excess sand, the whole roof surface was sealed with an application of Polyfinish Clear.

Products from F. Ball and Co. Ltd.’s System LVT range, including the company’s fast-track, fibre-reinforced transitional adhesive, Styccobond F58 PLUS, have been used to install luxury vinyl tiles in an ambitious, modern self-build property in rural Cambridgeshire.Flooring contractors began by thoroughly vacuuming the building’s concrete subfloor to remove dust and debris. F. Ball’s technical service team recommended treating the subfloor as a newly installed screed for the purposes of moisture management, despite being installed months earlier, as it had been left exposed to the elements since. Therefore, Stopgap F77 waterproof surface membrane was used to create a barrier to prevent excess subfloor moisture attacking adhesives and floorcoverings, potentially causing floor failure.Once the waterproof surface membrane had cured, the surface was primed using Stopgap P141. Stopgap 300 HD heavy-duty levelling compound was then applied over the entire ground floor to create a perfectly smooth base for the receipt of floorcoverings. The product’s high compressive strength and excellent self-levelling properties help create a flawless finish when installing LVTs, while ensuring a long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing floor finish even when subject to high levels of wear.The contractors then used Styccobond F58 PLUS and Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS temperature tolerant, moisture resistant, pressure sensitive adhesive to install wood-effect LVTs over the 372m2 area. Styccobond F49 was used where floor-to-ceiling windows were likely to cause temperatures to rise significantly as a result of solar gain.Styccobond F58 PLUS was used to install vinyl tiles everywhere else. The fast-track adhesive enables floorcoverings to be installed from as little as five minutes after application, transitioning from a wet-lay adhesive to become fully pressure sensitive. Reinforcing fibres in the formulation provide resistance to lateral movement, holding tiles firmly in place and reducing the potential for them to slide around when working. The adhesive’s high bond strength and strong initial tack also prevent excess adhesive oozing between joints, facilitating easier application.All of the products used in this installation feature in the F. Ball System LVT range: subfloor preparation products and adhesives which, used in combination, can help achieve optimum results when installing LVTs.Commenting on the project, Richard Argyle of 4 Floor Fittings, said: “It’s the best screed I’ve ever done. The levelling compound had no imperfections whatsoever. Styccobond F58 PLUS allowed floorcoverings to be installed over large areas in one go while helping with the precise alignment of LVTs. The result is a visually striking finish in keeping with the rest of the project.”

The history of a 200-year-old lighthouse has been brought to life with a little help from F. Ball flooring installation products, which have been used to refurbish a popular visitor attraction on the North Wales coast.South Stack Lighthouse stands just off Holy Island and is the most westerly point on Anglesey. Built to warn passing ships of the perilous rocks that lie beneath it, the 28m-tall lighthouse is still operating today. Visitors to the landmark attraction can see the lamp up close, tour the original engine room, and learn about its history in an adjoining exhibition centre.Flooring contractors opted for Styccobond F46 adhesive to install Altro vinyl safety flooring throughout the centre’s 100m2 display rooms, as well as staff areas, toilets, corridors and kitchen. Extreme weather conditions meant there were logistical challenges, with several attempts required to deliver materials to the remote island via sea and air before contractors could begin work on the job.The visitor centre subfloor, comprising mostly old wooden floorboards, was subjected to moisture testing using a Protimeter MMS2 in WME mode, the results of which provided readings below the 17% threshold, enabling contractors to proceed with overboarding the subfloor with plywood which was then primed. A finishing compound was used to fill indentations formed by screws used to affix the panels and the joints between them in order to prevent imperfections showing through the final result.After sufficient time had been allowed for the finishing compound to dry, Styccobond F46 acrylic adhesive was used to secure the vinyl safety flooring. A solvent-free, pressure sensitive adhesive with a high-bond strength, Styccobond F46 is designed to minimise the effect of trowel serrations shadowing through thin vinyl flooring to give an aesthetically pleasing finish. The product dries to a permanent tacky film and it also has an infinite open time, is protected against biodegradation and is suitable for use over normal underfloor heating installations.A similar process was followed in the toilets, though this time, a concrete subfloor was levelled using a fast-track levelling compound, and capping and coving were installed at wall junctions using Styccobond F60 contact adhesive. The instant bond formed by the adhesive means that it is suitable for securing vertical flooring accessories. It will also withstand normal wet cleaning techniques.Commenting on the installation, Gary Hughes, Director at Oakwill Flooring, said: “As a business, we pride ourselves on high quality workmanship, using only the best products and suppliers, and if you’re putting down a floor with a 20-year guarantee, F. Ball is the go-to choice. The lighthouse was a challenging job, but we managed to turn mission impossible into mission complete.”

Four metres of stainless steel provides a ‘model’ worktop solution for one of the UK’s top fashion and photographic model agencies. Take 2 Model Management had the worktop installed in its new London offices, where it plays a key role in boardroom catering. The worktop was supplied by GEC Anderson, specialist in made-to-measure stainless steel products.Take 2 has on its books many top international and local models who feature on fashion catwalks and in campaigns for leading brands. Founded 25 years ago by Melissa Richardson and Gabriella Palmano, the agency was based in Covent Garden until its recent relocation to a converted 19th century warehouse at Willow Street, Shoreditch, the heart of London’s fashion district. The new premises includes a modern fourth storey boardroom, which is also used for general meetings and corporate events, necessitating a stylish and well-appointed kitchen-bar.  Bespoke manufacturer Woodbury Furniture Company was commissioned to build the kitchen-bar, with a stainless steel worktop specified by the architect. Woodbury designer Matthew King says: “We approached GEC Anderson for the worktop as we had worked with them on several previous commissions. They offer a wide choice of edge details and upstands, and can be relied on for seamless joins and a perfect fit.” The worktop was supplied in two sections to facilitate handling into the boardroom – via a spiral staircase. The sections were mounted on top of storage units and appliances and were clamp-jointed on site to provide a virtually seamless finish. A cut-out to accommodate a glass-top hob was provided, along with an integral 500mm x 400mm sink from GEC Anderson’s standard range. Melissa Richardson says: “It’s great – it looks lovely and it’s working well for us.” Woodbury and GEC Anderson also provided a 700mm stainless steel-topped teapoint with a 300mm diameter sink to serve staff and visitors on the lower floors.   Based near Exeter, Woodbury Furniture Company has a small team of craftsmen who produce custom furniture and kitchens in a variety of styles from traditional to contemporary. Matthew King says: “Stainless steel is an excellent choice for worktops because its seamless finish virtually eliminates the risk of leaks affecting storage or appliances.”  The GEC Anderson worktop and teapoint at Take 2 are made from satin finish stainless steel, which provides a hard-wearing surface that is easy to maintain to high standards of hygiene and retains an attractive appearance for many years. Founded in England in 1962, GEC Anderson has pioneered the development of made-to-measure stainless steel products. Today, the company’s range includes bowls, worktops, cabinets, shelving and sanitaryware for use in domestic, commercial and specialist environments. All products are manufactured to ISO 9001 and backed by a comprehensive support service from planning and product specification to installation and maintenance.

Tobermore Deliver Striking Finish for New Business Quarter in Leatherhead.Tobermore provided HLM Architects with a variety of paving products that were used to create the striking landscape at The Square, an exciting business quarter in Leatherhead, Surrey. The Square comprises four impressive office buildings that total 68,851 sq. ft. in size and the project is the first development in the South East to achieve an EPC A rating.Joe Harries, Associate at HLM Architects, explained that his aim in designing The Square was “to create a contemporary office environment within a high quality and attractive landscape setting.”Joe commented that different hard landscaping solutions were considered for the project but paving was chosen as the superior solution:“We were looking for a range of quality products that were robust, aesthetically pleasing and cost effective, and we found that Tobermore were ahead of their peers in this area of the market.”Joe Harries, Associate at HLM ArchitectsIt was these factors that convinced HLM Architects to specify Tobermore Manhattan, Sienna Duo and Shannon Duo block paving products in creating a high quality finish for the site.Manhattan is a plank paving product that is manufactured with a granite aggregate surface layer that produces a sparkling finish, similar to natural granite.Manhattan mixed length units were selected in the colours of Silver, Mid Grey and Graphite for the main area on site. This signature blend is part of Tobermore’s Constellations and has been named ‘Pavo’. Discover more about Tobermore’s Constellations. Similar to Manhattan, Sienna Duo is manufactured with a granite aggregate surface layer. Sienna was installed in the rich colour of Sandstone on the parking bays, creating a striking, modern look alongside Manhattan.Shannon Duo in the warm, blended tones of Heather was installed on the walkways surrounding the four office buildings on site. In contrast to the other Tobermore products specified, this product is manufactured with a smooth surface layer that is ideal for pedestrian use and wheeled traffic.Joe explained the design concept developed with Tobermore products: “The colour, texture and unit sizes were varied to create unique character and function to the main circulatory and recreational spaces, providing a strong sense of arrival leading up to the central square that forms the heart of the development.“Conceptually, we tried to create a contemporary, inspiring and inviting centralised hard landscaped amenity enclosed by both proposed and existing soft landscape infrastructure. This formal epicentre is the main focus of the scheme, with a large and striking public art feature, high quality paving, seating and subtle lighting. From this the landscape character gradates out to the informal and ecologically enhanced edges of the site, with extensive amenity planting used to break up the car parking areas in between.”Reflecting on the result of project, Joe commented; “The hard landscaping products used worked well and we were extremely pleased with the service provided by Tobermore.For good quality concrete and granite aggregate paving, Tobermore must be considered as one of the market leaders in terms of quality of product, service and competitiveness.”

Located in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea; one of London’s most prestigious locations is now home to an exclusive collection of luxury apartments and penthouses. 375 Kensington High Street is now one of the most sought after addresses in London, setting itself above all others and serves as the epitome of London living. Wetroom Materials worked hand in hand with the architects and contractors to overcome the varying challenges the project presented. 300+ low profile wetroom solutions were able to be supplied to the development.The Unidrain linear drain system 1004 model finished with the highline custom tiled panel was the chosen drain. This was supplied as part of the Unislope 1K kit, which couples the drain up with a preformed slope and waterproofing solution.