"fire hose reel systems"

This scheme was designed by the architects Hawkins Brown and constructed by Mace, who were very easy to work with and have a great project team.One of the main challenges of the project was the fact that is was being constructed during lockdown, and both design team and project team were all working from home, but because of such good communications across the teams, everything flowed very well. N06 East Village is located at the site of the former 2012 Athletes Village and close to the London Olympic Park 2012, so there’s plenty of sports locations nearby!The façade sections were constructed using a modern method that involves some manufacturing and assembly being completed offsite. They were pre-assembled and fixed offsite onto the precast concrete floor units and this new high rise construction solution, removes the need for scaffolding Because each floor is fully enclosed, it reduces project time and the risk of site operatives working at height and increases project speed time with less labour needed on site. This was especially beneficial considering construction was during the Covid-19 pandemic. It is believed that throughout this project there was 40% less vehicle movements to and from site and 70% less site waste created.*We supplied the original Quadra metal riser doors throughout the two residential towers however we have since improved the doorsets and they are now Quadra+. N06 East Village project has a modern interior with bright, bold colours featured on both the inside and the outside façade. Selo’s concealed riser doors were a perfect fit with their interior design providing a sleek, flush solution throughout the corridors.This project was one of the first major projects that we supplied our Quench fire-stopping protection to after they requested a factory fitted fire stopping solution. Quench is a safe and reliable solution that is pre-fitted to the riser door frame, removing the need to apply intumescent mastic. It has a 120minute fire resistance rating when used in conjunction with Selo’s Quadra+ riser door system. This solution removes the need to work inside the riser to apply the intumescent and thus removing the fall risk and hazardous working environments.*Source: https://www.cast-consultancy.com/knowledge-hub/plot-n06-east-village/

The world’s premier destination for design and decoration excellence. Home to 120 showrooms and over 600 of the world’s most prestigious luxury brands, it is the largest of its kind in Europe.Willmott Dixon is a privately-owned construction and interior fit-out specialist with the ambition to create a huge and lasting positive impact on society, the main contractor who hired us to meet their client’s project specifications. The product selected for the project was the Soundis Absorb-R GypLine αw (also commonly known as a Seamless Monolithic Acoustic Spray Plaster System) which is an extremely flexible seamless sound absorption system. It is a non-perforated, monolithic system consisting of a mineral fibre panel with a layer of micro-porous plaster. Excellent Sound Absorption was required at this project and therefore our task was to ensure class A sound absorption within the large atrium. The Absorb-R GypLine αw was used as a seamless high performing sound-absorbing system, a system with excellent eco-credentials. The GypLine αw insulation board also benefits the energy performance of any building by enhancing the insulation of the building envelope.We were challenged with working almost 20 meters above the floor which adds difficulties to any installation but nothing we haven’t overcome before in previous projects. Absorb-R GypLine αw was selected as the finish offers unrivalled levels of sound absorption but also ensures walls and ceilings are clear of panels and visible acoustic solutions, providing a virtually seamless monolithic surface for walls and ceilings in a choice of RAL colours. This seamless and complete solution can be adapted to a wide range of rooms, from home use, office space to conference halls, auditoria, theatres, recreational sports and educational areas. The Absorb-R GypLine αw acoustic system is environment-friendly, fully recyclable and has natural components that offer optimal sound absorption with extensive resistance to fire.

BCL are proud to have been a part of the team delivering the £400m redevelopment of London Bridge Station, designed by Grimshaw Architects and developed by Costain. The redeveloped station expects to see 75 million passengers pass through each year as part of the £6.5 billion Thameslink project. As part of the refurbishment the structure was replaced by pre-cast concrete bridge decks. The underside of these new decks became the ceiling which was then clad with our high performance Alpha acoustic timber panel system.The BCL “Alpha” panel system spans over 7,000 square metres of Western Red Cedar panels in three distinct patterns, providing class A and B sound absorption to reduce noise from passengers and trains. The panels are fire treated to Euro class B, fully demountable, have fully concealed fixings, and involve integrated lighting troughs. Our open configuration system allowed Grimshaw to design the unique panel composition to the highest standard. With the ability to be flexible along with outstanding acoustic performance and the standard of design and installation services, it was clear that our BCL panels should be the system of choice.There were some significant challenges with the project, not only the control of ambient sound from the passengers using the station, but also the structural reverberation produced by on average 18 trains per hour and, given its prominence, the need for upwards blast protection in the event of a terrorist threat. All challenges have been met by the BCL design, making the ceiling system the perfect solution.With the London Bridge Station redevelopment, as with every project BCL take on, our design, manufacture and installation teams provide the knowledge and skill needed to ensure the highest standard of work is achieved at every stage of the project.Client: National RailArchitect: GrimshawMain Contractor: CostainSize: 7,000m2Location: LondonCompletion: September 2016Western Red CedarAcoustic class A & B3 different slat arrangementsFully demountableBomb blast grid system (for maintain structural integrity)

Nestled in the heart of Central London, Chelsea Creek stands as an epitome of luxury, offering residents a uniquely European style of living along its canalside homes. The residential development boasts a stunning location characterized by tree-lined avenues and meandering waterways, providing an exquisite urban lifestyle.In our collaboration with Chelsea Creek, our focus was on enhancing both safety and aesthetics within the residential spaces. A key component of this project was the installation of metal riser doors tailored to meet the project’s exacting standards for both functionality and aesthetics. Designed to seamlessly integrate with the sophisticated surroundings, these fire-rated riser doors ensure compliance with safety standards while preserving the high-end residential atmosphere.The choice of metal riser doors not only aligns with the upscale environment of Chelsea Creek but also serves a crucial functional purpose. Ensuring fire safety without compromising on the luxurious aesthetics of the development, these doors exemplify our commitment to delivering solutions that prioritize both form and function. Crafted for both durability and visual appeal, these fire-rated doors not only ensure safety compliance but also contribute to the overall sophisticated aesthetic of Chelsea Creek.

Location: Canary Wharf, LondonMain Contractor: Canary Wharf Contractors LtdWood Wharf B2 is a modular construction project located on the edge of Blackwall Basin, Canary Wharf.All 279 serviced apartments were manufactured at their specialist construction site, fitted with kitchens and bathrooms and even furniture — before being transported to the site and craned into position.OBEX supplied fire-classified membranes that have been developed specifically for modular construction, including the 0400FR Class B Modular Roofing Membrane, as well as the 0223FR Class A2/W2 Breather Membrane.Storeys: 21Apartments: 279OBEX Fire-Rated products required: 4

Metal pipe boxing from the Pendock Profiles range is being used at a London tower block to conceal and protect fire sprinkler pipework, cabling and other services as part of a fire safety upgrade and refurbishment programme.Bespoke manufactured to the exact dimensions and project requirements, the metal boxing is non-combustible, which makes it suitable for use in public areas, such as lift lobbies, landings and corridors, where no sprinkler heads are present.Finished in white PPC, the metal pipe boxing not only improves the overall aesthetics, but also provides durable protection for pipework and services, while the integrated hinged inspection panels allow easy access for routine checks and maintenance.

Installed by AliDeck Approved Installer, Alu-Installations, this terrace decking project used our 30mm Senior Flat Board to deliver a slip and fire-resistant deck to replace the existing timber.

The University of Bedfordshire’s Luton Campus has been completely re-dressed in a stunning mix of Rockpanel External facades, providing beautiful, fire-safe, future proof accommodation for thousands of students.

Nestled in the heart of London's prestigious Mayfair district.80 New Bond Street stands as a beacon of elegance and luxury. This iconic address is renowned for its exclusive boutiques, high-end galleries, and renowned auction houses, making it a coveted destination for discerning shoppers and art enthusiasts alike. With its historic architecture and contemporary allure, 80 New Bond Street encapsulates the essence of sophistication, offering a unique blend of heritage and modernity.Completed in 2024, it has created new office spaces and has incorporated a sophisticated, spacious reception area.Throughout the development, our flagship product Quadra + was used. It is 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.

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.

OverviewCryfield Village, Warwick University, is a state-of-the-art student accommodation development, replacing outdated residences. Built as a series of townhouse-style apartments and studios, the village will eventually house around 830 residents. The new residences are fitted with photovoltaic panels that convert the sun's energy to electricity, supporting the University's aim to reach net zero carbon by 2030. The designers were keen to make a statement with the village properties and to impart a warm and welcoming feeling for the first year students.The SolutionWithin our “Collections” we have a number of terracotta-coloured finishes. The client particularly liked the tones and texture of ‘Cracked Clay’ from our Evolution range, and the 25 year guarantee for gloss, colour and adhesion was an important consideration. As do all our powders, Cracked Clay meets the Reaction to Fire Standards for fire classification A2-s1,d0, suitable for use on multi-storey residential buildings.We coated 900 m2 of aluminium cassette panels for the façade and roof of the phase 1 property which will house around 383 first year students. .The appealing, warm and eye-catching finish is (we think) a marked improvement on the existing building as one of these images shows.Benefits of Using PowdertechPowdertech has over 30 years’ experience in professional architectural powder coatingColour, tone and texture are our passion and we have the expertise to develop bespoke finishes.The Evolution range has a 25 year guarantee for gloss, colour and adhesion.Powdertech's rigorous pre-treatment system will help to keep the panelling free from corrosion for up to 40-years.Powdertech’s flexible plant can coat a wide variety of shapes and sizes of architectural metal work and fabrications.

Jewers Doors have just completed the installation of sixteen sets of Phoenix Swift bi-folding doors for the newly constructed Fire and Ambulance stations at the $15.5 billion EXPO 2020 Project in Dubai. 

As part of the £25 million Wolverhampton Academy Trust sponsored Bilston Academy, BCL are proud to have been part of the overall process. This project was delivered through the BSF programme by Carillion PLC and was designed by Capita. The academy was designed with the ability to deliver a modern multi-disciplinary education centre for the 1200 students of Wolverhampton Academy in mind. The building is made up of 4 differently themed zones, a dedicated engineering hub, a science super-lab and a combination of grass and astro-turf sports pitches.Using 69 x 44 mm of Siberian Larch, the external walls were covered, with the timber installed vertically at 100 mm to form an open screen detail across the building, including the plant room and roof areas. Each slat was treated to Class 0 SSF, using the non-com impregnation system from Lonza Wood Protection. In doing this, BCL ensured the building would have complete fire protection for its entire life without requiring any maintenance.As per all BCL panel systems everything was designed and pre-fabricated off site into a panellised system, fitted using secret fixings. Installation time was dramatically reduced along with on-site waste, meaning the 3000 m2 envelope was constructed quickly and efficiently.Client: Wolverhampton AcademyArchitect: CapitaContractor: Carillion PLCLocation: WolverhamptonCompletion: April 2013 Siberian LarchFSC CertifiedSecret FixingsClass 0 SSF

The Problem:Associated problems caused by damp and flooding are commonplace throughout the UK’s housing stock. Growth of black mould and efflorescence caused by salt transfer can lead to thedelamination of the plaster and there is no simple resolution. Often the only choice left to the housing association or local authority is to remove the original plaster and treat the walls with a Damp Proof Course (DPC), before waiting for it to dry to receive a backing plaster – all at the expense of the landlord or local authority.The Solution: A Modern, Lightweight Renovating Plaster:Limelite Renovating Plaster solves all of these problems. Firstly, it can be applied to damp walls, saving an enormous amount of money for time that would be otherwise spent waiting for the walls to dry out – it effectively controls dampness passing through walls, as well as providing a barrier against salt transfer – ultimately allowing the substrate to dry naturally. Secondly, and crucially, Limelite Renovating Plaster will withstand damp issues caused by future events, which may be likely in properties susceptible to damp and flooding.Thirdly the Limelite plaster system offers Thermal Insulation by drying the walls rapidly, reducing loss of heat and insulating the internal walls to meet modern day standardsThermal Conductivity, λ10,dry,mat, P=50% = 0.17W/m.KThermal Conductivity (k) at 0% moisture = 0.13W/m.KAnother benefit with Limelite plasters for internal use is their fire resistance/protection as a non-combustible product (as defined by BS476:Part 4) which can be assigned Class O in accordance with the requirements of the National Building Regulations and Reaction to Fire = Euroclass A1 Making the Difference for Local Authorities Dudley Council in the West Midlands is among the many local authorities that specify the use of Limelite Renovating Plaster when tackling such issues in social housing.“Where a renovating plaster is required we use the original and proven, Limelite” said Andy Pratt, Specification and Design Manager for Dudley Council, which has been specified by the council for over 40 years.Where existing plaster is sound, a small area of plaster is removed and replaced with Limelite.In more severe cases where the existing plaster is unsound, all plaster is removed and the wall is treated with a DPC before Limelite Renovating Plaster is applied. Limelite Renovating Plaster is also used for patch repairs in areas such as window reveals, where again the damaged plaster is removed and replaced with Limelite.A BBA Approved SystemLimelite Renovating Plaster is a BBA approved solution, when used as the backing plaster in a 2-part system, finished with our High Impact Finishing Plaster - a hard, durable finishing plaster that produces a Grade D impact resistant surface.

The campus in Colchester, which is home to 15,000 students, is undergoing a massive phased transformation. Benx-RCM are currently supplying into phase three of the campus-build, known as The Pastures.Split across five new buildings, The Pastures will bring an additional 1,262 student bedrooms to the Colchester campus. One of these blocks will create a new hub which will include a reception, a post room, an administrative area and a student services centre, along with a laundrette and staff welfare facilities.Overseeing this £168 million project as main contactor is Bouygues Construction.Stanta were awarded the SFS infill package at the site. As part of this package, Benx RCM were selected to supply Y-Wall external sheathing board for the entire project.Y-Wall is a flexible calcium silicate based fibre cement building board, offering excellent fire properties as well as high levels of dimensional stability. The Y-Wall BBA Certification provided the Stanta project team with assurance that this building board solution has been tested to exacting standards, evaluated onsite, as well as undergoing a life expectancy assessment and a quality management system review.Y-Wall was utilised to create a sheathing for the five high rise structures. In buildings with storeys more than 18m above ground level, any products used in the external wall construction should be of limited combustibility. Being a non-combustible, A1 fire-rated building board, utilising BS EN ISO 1182 and BS EN ISO 1716 tests, Y-Wall is the optimum solution for a project of this type and size.In specifying the building board for this project it was important to ensure the optimum racking performance to enhance structural strength. Y-Wall conforms to European Norm - BS EN 594:2011 - the certification which proves the system has been rigorously tested and offers excellent racking performance, structural strength and stability.Specifying a building board that is fully tested to BS EN 1062-1 allows for adequate moisture resistance and durability. Y-Wall fully complies with this standard which ensures the building boards will have a life equal to that of the building. Selecting a building board with good external performance and durability is important, particularly through the build phase, as the product may be left exposed for several months prior to a secondary facade being installed over the top of the system. In order to generate speed and ease of construction, Y-Wall was supplied pre-cut to specified panel sizes. The fabrication work was undertaken by Benx Façades at its dedicated facility, to ensure a seamless process.

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.”

SE Controls' brief was to supply, install and project manage a full turnkey solution to meet the fire safety and smoke ventilation needs in three of the new buildings at the Nottingham Chettles Yard student housing development.

Here East involved the transformation of the former Media Campus.  The team at Laing O’Rourke were tasked with designing the building’s fire protection scheme that also accommodates building movements such as movement between floors and in services.

Technowood facade and ceiling systems, pergolas and many other products are used in Istanbul Airport spaces. These have different function such as entrance gates, check-in areas, passport control points and restaurants.Technowood real timber veneered product were used in this high-energy environment was due to the Euroclass A2 fire rating, adaptability in design and performance as real timber all without the short comings of solid timber.Lightweight, fascinating shapes and hidden fixing systems all add to make these products the most innovative and GOTO products used for all scale projects for both interior and exterior projects.“Why use solid timber when you can use a little 2% if you use Technowood products”If you can draw it, send it to us and use the skills of our in-house Architects to offer advice, realisation of all fixing considerations to be presented with the full scale of problem solving and a simple solution of installation for your contractors.I could write thousands of words, hyperbole and details of what for how and why but in this instance, I’ll leave you be with the photos that speak sufficiently for themselves…Credits and Further informationArchitect: Grimshaw in partnership with Nordic Office of ArchitectureLocation: Istanbul Airport Interiors Materials: Technowood louvres, panels and claddingCompletion: 2013

OverviewA successful installation of 40 x Powrmatic SRP U Tubes at a hangar facility in Boscombe. With the system design by Powrmatic, ABS, a leading HVAC and installation company, was entrusted with this significant installation project. The installation aimed to provide efficient heating performance, reduce energy costs, and improve the overall comfort and functionality of the hangar.Project BackgroundThe Weighbridge Hangar Building 499 at MOD Boscombe Down operated by QinetiQ required a new heating system due to the life-expired existing system. The hangar required a powerful heating system that would operate efficiently during the cold winter months while reducing energy costs. A new Powrmatic SRP U-tube herringbone radiant heating system was produced in line with the design intent of WYG on their tender documents. J & B Hopkins secured the M & E contract and employed the services of ABS Ltd to undertake the installation of the radiant heating system. ABS Ltd, formed in 1978, offers a full range of professional services including the installation and maintenance of both radiant and warm air heating systems to both commercial and industrial properties throughout the UK.SolutionThe MOD hangar facility, situated on an exposed location, at Boscombe Down required a robust heating solution to withstand the cold winter months. 40 Powrmatic SRP radiant U Tube PVU50 Hi/Low heaters each rated at 50kW on a herringbone system layout with ducted fresh air onto each burner to comply with fire safety standards were installed by ABS Ltd. To maximize efficiency, the heaters mounted at an impressive height of 23 meters in line with Powrmatic’s design drawings were arranged in 8 lines of 5, with 3 heaters connected to one fan and 2 heaters connected to another fan. The heating system incorporated Powrmatic MC200 controllers and black bulb sensors for precise temperature control across the hangar.ResultThe final stage of the installation was completed by J & B Hopkins, arranging for the necessary gas and electrical distribution services to the radiant heaters and discharge fans. The 40 Powrmatic SRP radiant U Tubes installed by ABS Ltd effectively heated the facility, providing a comfortable and conducive environment for the workforce during the winter season. Additionally, the new heating system reduced energy costs and eliminated the need for multiple exhausts on the rooftop hence retaining the aesthetic design principles of the hangar. The commissioning was successfully carried out when all services were completed, providing a satisfied client with a capable heating installation within the hangar, for the exposed site location.

ClientManchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT) Market SectorHealthcare The Project BriefWythenshawe Hospital is a major acute teaching hospital part of the Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT). Its area of specialisms includes cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery, heart and lung transplants as well as cancer and breast care services and supports patients from across the North West and beyond.During the upgrade of the Emergency Department (E.D) the team decided on both protection and preventative measures to ensure only the highest of standards were adhered to which were in line with the Hospital’s renowned reputation. The SolutionIntastop Ltd was chosen to supply and fit a range of protective products designed specifically to integrate seamlessly with the hospital aesthetics.They included Bed Head Protection, Hand Rails, Sanparrel® Wall Sheet and Corner Guards from the Inpro product range in addition to Intastop’s innovative I-Gienic Smooth Hygienic Sheet and Rigid Frame Guards. Impact protection sheet along with the other products installed at Wythenshawe Hospital boast a plethora of benefits including high impact resistance, Class ‘O’ Fire Rated; tested to BS476 Parts 6 & 7 and available in a variety of colours. Additional Benefits of Impact Protection SheetEnsures staff and patient safety in the event of a fire by maintaining fire integrity of the surface.Protects against localised damage.Maintains a clean, safe environmentAchieves colour contrast for critical surfaces to assist with visually impaired staff and patientsWhat the client saysMarcus Ashurst, project manager for the emergency department said“With a collaborative approach from the inception of the project through to completion, the Trust was mindful that the new emergency department operating 24 hours a day would require careful thought and consideration with regards to the finishes selected. With leading healthcare architects IBI plans were drafted with full engagement with the clinical teams to develop an extremely well-considered and effective design – fit for purpose.Working with Interserve, the principal supply chain partner appointed to construct the new development, Intastop were nominated to supply and install a fully comprehensive system of door and wall protection that would not only withstand and protect the built environment, but also enhance the aesthetics of the environment. The holistic approach taken and end result was indeed most satisfactory.”

8300 SQM of Optima FC+, Optima FC+ perforated panels and Optima IPC (soffits) have been used in the completion of the 23-storey New Bailey building in Salford Quays.Optima FC+ was selected for a number of reasons on this project.Predominantly, it is an incredibly user friendly system – panels can be quickly and easily adjusted on site and the system can be fixed top down, or bottom up with individual panel removal and replacement. This makes Optima FC+ a highly desirable choice for designers and installers.However, the panels were specifically adapted for this project to enable a completely secret fix system, as per the architects vision. Therefore the top return fold was increased to 50mm instead of 38mm. This allowed for the security fixings to be completely concealed by the panel above, allowing the customer to easily fit the panels from ground up.Optima FC+ perforated panels were chosen as an additional aesthetic feature and Optima IPC was selected for the soffit areas as the architect requested a secret fix system.A bespoke window reveal and bracket was included in the panel design. This allowed for an extended side return which was used to hook on the panels and enable a secret fix. The Optima IPC system was perfect for this part of the design as it enables hidden mechanical fixings and is a cost-effective solution using 2.0mm aluminium.Black PPC aluminium was used as backing trays to enhance the appearance of the perforations, prevent views through the perforations and close off the cavity.Optima FC+ has been independently tested and certified to meet CWCT rigorous specification for rainscreen cladding and has been fire tested to BS8414-2 and classified to BR135 for high rise buildings. This makes it the perfect solution for Plot C1, now the tallest residential building in the New Bailey plot.Plot C1, which features a six-storey podium with an exclusive rooftop garden terrace for the wellbeing of residents, incorporates a number of sustainability measures including surface water drainage attenuation, minimising off site spoil disposal, reduced water consumption.The project has been shortlisted in the 2022 Facade Awards UK for ‘Best use of a rainscreen system using aluminium’.

As a company passionate about UK manufacturing, Aston Martin’s choice to work with Polyroof - the only independent UK manufacturer of cold-applied liquid systems - was a natural one.The new roofing system had to be cold-applied to eliminate the risk of accidental fire during installation. New insulation was also desirable to further improve the thermal performance of the roof. It was essential to reduce disruption to the operations of the facility, meaning any new system must be rapid to install with the existing roof predominantly being kept in place.After leaks were reported, The findings of Polyroof’s survey were presented to Aston Martin in the form of a bespoke specification, where the Protec Warm Roof System was the recommended solution. Core tests taken during the inspection had revealed that despite the leaking through the existing PVC single-ply membrane, the existing build-up of 60mm PIR insulation was found to be dry and in sound enough condition to be retained as the base for the new roofing system, saving the client time on the project.It was also identified that the current insulated roof configuration was missing a Vapour Control Layer, meaning the roof was at risk of condensation issues. This problem was designed out by the installation of 120mm Polyroof RES Insulation above the existing single-ply membrane, which was made good to form an effective vapour control layer.By creating a “hybrid” roof with double the insulation above the vapour barrier than below, the risk of condensation was eliminated and this was demonstrated by analysis conducted on the proposed build-up.To eliminate the standing water issues, sumps were placed around the existing outlets, greatly improving their drainage capacity, and offering a highly cost-effective solution when compared to the need to alter the falls of the roof.Polyroof Technical Services visited site regularly to advise and assist architects, specifiers and contractors in all aspects of the project.The finished roof provided a seamless and extra-tough waterproof membrane that was supported by the trusted Polyroof Accredited System Guarantee, with a separate insurance-backing scheme provided at no cost to the client. Aston Martin Lagonda now have the peace of mind that the roof above this landmark facility will be leak-free for decades to come. 

I first came across Vox Ignis when ROC took over a large project in London. I was instantly impressed with the systems they had fitted and quickly picked up the phone to get more details. It was then that I found out that I knew two of the firm’s directors, Tony and Jeremy, from their previous jobs and we began discussing how we could work together. We now work with Vox Ignis on all tenders.Over the years, I have used most of the systems out there, but I never had a preferred system until I started working with Vox Ignis. Having a good relationship with the team has really helped us, as has the ease of programming the system, and every client I have handed it over to has loved the touch screen user controls and how easy they are to use.One of the largest projects we have worked with Vox Ignis on was the fit-out of a 92-room luxury boutique hotel in the City of London, that required an Emergency Voice Communication System (EVCS). The project saw us fit out the development with seven different Vox Ignis products, amounting to 32 items in total.The products were easy to understand and the team were always on hand when we needed technical support. I have never had anything but positive feedback from clients when we have handed over the systems to them.The team at Vox Ignis really go above and beyond to make sure you are competitive and supported with the delivery of any project you use their products to fulfil. I would highly recommend Vox Ignis to any business as a go-to product for refuge and disabled alarms.Products used:1 x ViLX-TMS – Touchscreen Master Panel3 x ViLX-EX8 – Expander Panels9 x ViLX-ACB – Accessible Bedrooms6 x ViLX-OSB – Refuge Outstations1 x ViLX-OSA – Fireman’s Telephone11 x ViLX-OSC – Combined Fire Telephone and Refuge Outstations1 x ViLX-ACA – Accessible Toilet

Queen Elizabeth High School and Hexham Middle School are being redeveloped on the existing site of the high school which was demolished. The new buildings are located to the rear of a Grade II listed school building which was retained as part of the development. The £36.1m project forms part of the Government Priority School Building Programme (PSBP).

Wood burning stoves are needed to offset the high energy prices.With a house building boom due to the lack of housing, plus the combined shock of energy prices – building houses with secondary heating, such as stoves, has returned to the forefront.Wood-burning stoves are now highly efficient and designed to offset any carbon they release into the atmosphere. Eco-friendly, modern stoves are why Rose Builders decided to add stoves and chimneys to their housing development in Lawford Green. In addition, various houses within the site had the option of adding a wood-burning stove with a built-in chimney.

SureSet FlexiSet, made of 50% recycled car tyres, was installed to support the sustainability part of the brief given by New Forest District Council. SureSet resin bound paving improves the drainage and surface water issues in the car park by allowing rainwater to flow through the paving instead of running off onto the car park surface. The benefits of a SureSet resin bound tree pit: Aesthetically pleasing Safer. Permeable Easy to maintain Guaranteed for 21-year. The EcoBatcher will save a project of this size 298 single-use plastic buckets! Read the full case study on our website.

The front garden consisted of the typical grass, a narrow footpath, and shrubs. It was prepared prior to arrival removing all elements including the soil which was made level and topped with a free-draining compacted stone, this is the required substrate for SureSell. Once the cellular structure is in place it's filled with loose stone and then suitable for a final layer of smooth yet permeable resin bound paving.

Over 1,000 Profile 22 Optima Chamfered Windows have been used in a conversion project in Cheadle Hulme, Cheshire. Sim Chem House in Cheadle Hulme was a six storey office block built in the 1960s. The building had been empty for many years and fallen into disrepair. It was purchased by developers Inspired Homes to be redeveloped into 184 studio, one and two bed ultra-high quality apartments aimed at young homeowners.

A £4.6 million project by Liverpool Mutual Homes (LMH) delivered family homes for affordable rent on a neglected brownfield site as part of a series of measures to maximise energy efficiency. he award winning windows deliver easy-to-maintain aesthetics, but, more importantly for this project, exceptional security and low U values.

Dacatie's TF Multicloser and SF Multicloser profiles were used in the Phoenix Wharf development of 4 bedroom homes.Phoenix Wharf is located within the Sandwell and Swan Village area of West Bromwich, less than six miles northwest of Birmingham.

Brunswick House is a superb new residential scheme of 251 bedrooms, incorporating a mixture of studios and cluster rooms. The scheme is designed to offer outstanding student accommodation for undergraduate, postgraduate and international students in the heart of Cambridge. The client required stair nosings for 7 staircases meaning a total of 296 steps that would be durable enough for high traffic student usage. There was an additional design restraint in that the staircases would be made out of cast metal and therefore no mechanical fixings could be used.

Hadrian’s Tower is the tallest building in Newcastle at 82 metres high. Located in the heart of the city, it is a residential skyscraper with 162 luxury apartments. The tower has 26 storeys, and incorporates a champagne lounge and a coffee house among other communal spaces.

St Richard’s Hospital provides a full range of acute services for the people in Chichester and the surrounding area, including an Accident & Emergency department. A new entrance to A&E was being created and as with all healthcare projects, the aim was to help the hospital maintain clean, safe and effective treatment spaces, which is especially challenging in an extremely high traffic environment in 24 hour use such as the Accident & Emergency department.

The ProjectsThe Northern Health and Social Care Trust and The Southern Health and Social Care Trust are two of the largest healthcare associations in Northern Ireland. Between them, they provide services to over 850,000 people. Among the facilities under the Northern Trust’s control is Causeway Hospital in Coleraine. The Southern Trust has Craigavon Area Hospital as one of its major healthcare sites.H&J Martin was established in 1840. For well over a century and a half it has been delivering the highest level of quality work in every aspect of construction and fit outs. For this reason, the company was chosen to oversee and facilitate the work on these prestigious hospitals.The hospitals needed new flooring to be installed throughout the buildings. The floorcovering would need to be made from a resilient material such as vinyl, making it easy to maintain high standards of hygiene using industrial cleaning machinery. The flooring would also need to be supported at the floor-to-wall junctions and around corners, to prevent flooring failure or collapse and to protect against the heavy-duty cleaning equipment.The ApproachH&J Martin decided to use Quantum Flooring’s CCFM1 internal and CCFM2 external floormitres to help protect the flooring around corners in the hospitals. Vinyl or other resilient floorcoverings can be particularly vulnerable where the flooring meets the wall at corners, as it can be difficult to mitre the angles correctly. These floormitres help to create a uniform finish every time, leading to greater structural integrity along with improved aesthetic results.Quantum’s QCF35 cove former was utilised to complement the CCFM1 and CCFM2. This profile fits perfectly with the curve of the floormitres, helping to create a flush and hygienic finish every time, at each floor-to-wall junction and around corners. The coving and the floormitres protect the floorcovering from damage at the join, and make the flooring easier to clean. For wet rooms, the vinyl can be fitted all the way up the wall where the floormitres can also be used in the wall-to-roof corners.The UCS3 slimline flexible capping strip was used to create neat finishes to the floorcovering up the walls of the hospitals. The UCS3 profile is specifically designed for healthcare environments. It has a slimline cap, reducing the accumulation of dirt and dust over time, and providing a smaller surface area to be cleaned than traditional capping strips. UCS3 is available in 25 metre coils making the packaging compact and the product easy to fit.The OutcomesCauseway Hospital and Craigavon Area Hospital were fitted with over 2,000 metres of floormitres, cove formers, and capping strips between July 2022 and July 2023. Sean O’Reilly, the Flooring Supervisor for H&J Martin, says: “As you can see from the finish, high quality work was made easier with floormitres.”The profiles used have been expertly fitted by H&J Martin employees, resulting in great looking and hygienic installations for both hospitals. The floormitres, coving, and capping strips will be protecting the floorcovering for many years to come, and helping to keep the facilities safe and clean for both patients and healthcare professionals.The Northern Trust and the Southern Trust can rest assured that H&J Martin’s professional work with Quantum Flooring’s excellent product range will help them to continue providing their vital services to the people of Northern Ireland. Cutting Corners cove solutions are perfect for healthcare and pharmaceutical projects, improving the quality and standards of cap and cove, cleanroom, as well as wetroom installations.The CCFM1 Internal and CCFM2 External Floormitres are specified and fitted in countries worldwide.www.cuttingcorners.org.uk

Brighton Museum & Art Gallery is located in the iconic Royal Pavilion garden, at the heart of the city’s cultural quarter. It’s diverse collections brings together the arts with local, world and natural history. The institution attracts approximately 260, 000 visitors per year.