"fire security for doors windows"

The extraordinary, purpose built SuperLab in Oxford provides much needed lab space and fantastic facilities for the next generation of science entrepreneurs and innovators. The new state-of-the-art building is located close to the city centre and the university, which spins out around 15 science firms a year. Created and built by Oxford-based Robin Swailes Design and Development, the SuperLab offers almost 7,000 sq ft of accommodation for up to 84 staff and blends contemporary design with the latest efficiency features while meeting the needs of the modern workforce. The building is made of 95 per cent recycled aluminium and features a grey water system using collected rainwater to flush the toilets, thermal efficient panelling, air source heat pumps and solar panels to minimise its carbon footprint and keep running costs as low as possible. Metal Technology Ltd supplied a range of its high-performance glazing products for this unique development via approved fabricator Alternative Windows. Products used were: System 17 Curtain Walling, System 5-35Hi Tilt Turn Windows, System 4-35Hi Fixed Casement Windows and System 10-35 Thermally Broken Commercial Doors. Curved walls, round windows and open ceilings create a sense of space and wellbeing, topped off with advanced acoustics, quality finishing touches and a playful interior. The result is an inspiring and design-focused workplace that encourages collaboration. Outside, a roof top recreation area provides space for al fresco meetings, eating and drinking with views over Oxford’s Dreaming Spires. A fantastic project to have been involved in, which ultimately encourages young and innovative science pioneers to stay and further their career on home soil.

Work has been advancing on the new Southern Remand Centre at the Risdon Prison site in Tasmania with the cooperation of Dart Valley Systems. Our range of Safe Ensuite high security products have proved essential to the centre’s desire to improve correctional facilities for remdandees. The full range of products provided was:• 4 x VR01-072 High Security V2 WC Pan Less Abled with Grey Top• 130 x VR01-010 High Security Ligature Resistant Toilet • 135 x VR01-031 High Security Single Spout Integrated Basin• 9 x VR01-025 High Security Mirror with Moulded Frame • 130 x VR01-037 High Security Mirror with Moulded Frame and Shelf

Project: The Castings, Piccadilly EastLocation: Heyrod Street, ManchesterVCL membrane system supplier: ADA FastfixSystem used: illbruck ME060 A2-Membrane Pro Air and Vapour Control Layer, illbruck TF448 High Performance Bonding Tape, ME322 Internal Tape 100illbruck, a part of CPG UK, have celebrated the successful installation of their new A2 fire classified vapour control layer within an exciting new residential development in the heart of Manchester.The projectThe Castings, Piccadilly East is on a 0.7-acre site in the Manchester Piccadilly regeneration area and includes four stepped building elements rising to 25-storeys high. The development will consist of 352 build-to-rent (BTR) apartments, including a mix of studio, 1, 2, and 3 bed units, alongside roof terrace gardens, retail and amenity space, and a public square. The project was designed with a focus on sustainability, to deliver low energy consumption with highly efficient building fabric.ADA Fastfix, a leading supplier into the construction industry, were approached to find an airtight vapour control membrane which would ensure high levels of thermal performance and energy efficiency in the building. As a ‘relevant building’ according to Building Regulations Approved Document B, the installed membrane needed to be a fire classified solution; an A2 fire classified solution was requested to provide enhanced fire safety for the building and its occupants.The solutionADA Fastfix selected illbruck ME060 A2-Membrane Pro Air and Vapour Control Layer due to its enhanced reaction to fire classification of A2-s1, d0 to EN 13501-1, excellent product performance, and the accompanying technical support from the illbruck team. illbruck ME060 A2-Membrane uses advanced technology to combine reinforced glass fibre with an aluminium and laminated coating, providing long lasting strength and durability. The special coating also improves thermal performance by reflecting up to 95% of heat.  Its airtight and vapour-tight properties, which can be used to comply with Passivhaus, helps improve energy efficiency whilst protecting the building fabric from moisture vapour and condensation.The applicationOver 6,000m2 of illbruck ME060 A2-Membrane Pro Air and Vapour Control Layer was attached to the Steel Frame Structure using TF448 50mm high performance tape. The lap joints and window details were then sealed with ME322 70mm tape. This system can be used on the internal structure of a timber frame or lightweight steel structure to manage air and moisture flow, as well as enhance the building’s thermal performance, energy efficiency, and fire safety. Alongside providing high performance products, the illbruck team also helped the client with detailed drawings, technical service and application guidance, and on-site support – to ensure a smooth installation process and great finished result.Project overviewScott Hurry, Area Sales Manager at CPG UK, said, “illbruck ME060 A2-Membrane was the ideal choice for this fabric first build due to its enhanced reaction to fire classification as well as helping to improve thermal performance in the building. This is the first major installation of our new ME060 A2 fire classified membrane - we’re delighted to work with ADA Fastfix to see our products installed in this development, where our membrane will be helping to protect the building and its residents for years to come.”

The £82 million redevelopment of Coventry’s rail station has seen the creation of a new entrance building and multi-storey car park, with Senior Architectural Systems playing a key role in its creation.Designed by AHR Architects, the West Midlands station is one of the busiest outside of London. The project is the latest to have been delivered by Senior and its long-term supply chain partners Elite Aluminium Systems and Buckingham Group Contracting Ltd.Senior’s slimline SF52 aluminium curtain wall system was specified for the main station building, helping to flood the concourse with natural light. Senior’s robust SD automatic commercial sliding doors were also installed to provide secure, safe and accessible access to the thousands of passengers who use the station every day. Additionally, the new-look station also features a footbridge to allow easier access to the platforms and bus interchange.Senior’s slim profile SF52 aluminium curtain wall system provided the ideal balance of aesthetics and performance by allowing copious amounts of light to enter the building and offering enhanced thermal efficiency. The aluminium frames were powder coated to boost durability and also complement the station’s feature grey and red cladding. Senior’s SPW501 aluminium commercial swing doors were also specified throughout to provide a safe and secure solution to such a high traffic environment.The extensive use of glazing on the building also pays homage to the original station building which is located nearby but owing to its Grade II status, could not be extended or developed to meet the increased demand on Coventry’s rail network. Ahead of the wider refurbishment of the original building, the large glazed panels have been used to frame various artwork from local artists and create another focal point for visitors to the city.

In 2014, Cyclehoop was commissioned by Network Rail to find a cycle parking solution for Victoria Station.These improvements were to ensure a more cycle-friendly environment, to encourage more people to combine rail and cycle travel and to reduce congestion within and around the station. Used in conjunction, bicycles and trains can help reduce carbon, provide a door-to-door commute and deliver huge environmental benefits, all of which are issues that Cyclehoop are incredibly keen to encourage.The locations that were chosen for the cycle parking were the front and the rear of the station by the car park and taxi rank, due to convenience for users and also the CCTV coverage which enhances bike security.We designed the 100-strong custom made cycle parking facilities in line with Victoria Station’s interior aesthetic. This comprised Two-Tier Cycle Racks, maximising its footprint, as well as fencing securely enclosing the racks, adding an extra deterrent to thieves.The success of the cycle parking prompted a request several months later from Network Rail to upgrade the facility into a repair hub. We installed our Public Bike Pump and Repair Stand to provide a convenient repair hub for commuters in an emergency situation, or just for a quick shot of air. The idea of adding pumps and repair stands at major stations prevents abandoned bicycles and ensure people who cycle can get to their destination swiftly in the event of any fault with their bicycles.“Overall we have found the racks have been a source of positive feedback from station users. They significantly increased capacity, coverage by CCTV and a more convenient location allows us to provide a more effective customer service to our passengers. Equally their design allows a more efficient use of space at the station and offers a modern and user friendly experience.” – Adrian Gogay, Network Rail

Clapham Junction Train Station is one of Europe’s busiest Railway Stations handling up to 50,000 passengers per day. AJ Wells designed, built and installed vitreous enamel cladding for the Grant Road Entrance.Detailed site surveys were carried out to design the appropriate framing system for the cladding panels. There were a number of design requirements to be considered including: provision of a rainwater management system, emergency fire escape, access doors, interfaces with electrical equipment, staircases and uneven flooring.Everything was successfully incorporated, manufactured and installed on-time and within budget in time for the new connection to the Overground to open just before the London Olympics.During installation, careful logistics and passenger safety were our top priority, with much of the works carried out at nights and weekends. Much of our work was carried out alongside other contractors working on floors, ceilings and electrical connections.KEY FEATURES: • Framing system and vitreous enamel cladding • Incorporates rainwater management system • Incorporates emergency fire escapeA.J WELLS SERVICES: • Design, Build & Install Project • Site-Survey, CAD design • Manufacture • Installation of framing system and VE cladding • Provision of project documentation

Helmsman had the luxury to manufacture, deliver and install around 180 Z lockers and several benches to commuter washrooms and changing rooms. The client requested wet area Z type lockers, which we provided in heavy-duty aluminium and stainless steel powder-coated bodies and solid grade laminate Z doors. The client choice of colour for the body was the standard ‘ice’ and, the laminate door was Grey Maple (619) from our Abet Laminati collection. Z locker sizes were bespoke to comply with the space. The sizes are 1800H x 378W x 450D + 1mm rivets and 1800H x 298W x 450D + 2mm rivets and end panels to match the lockers. The majority of the lockers are with standard cam locks, and 44 of the Z lockers are with a keyless operation of the Ojmar OCS Pro locks for security and sleek design. These locks have a digital keypad with an integrated handle. In these uncertain times, these locks are hygienic and easy to upkeep. Bespoke bench seating with shoe tray underneath, manufactured from hardwood slats, complement the lockers. The client specifically requested to have these made from hardwood which matches the laminate locker colour.

Our team at Helmsman manufactured, delivered, and installed a variety of our Heated Lockers. There were 35 three-compartment Laminate Lockers to accommodate 105 people, as well as installing 28 Z Lockers to accommodate 56 people.The lockers were manufactured with wet specifications which means that the Laminate lockers are manufactured for an environment where there is humidity, which can also withstand rust. The lockers are manufactured with an aluminium and stainless-steel body and laminate doors.The specifications of the three-compartment lockers and Z lockers were to be 1775mm high, 298mm wide, and 450mm deep. Along with the lockers, the lockers were all installed with seat stands. The measurement of the seat stand was 300mm wide and 450 deep, the stands were powder coated in colour ‘Black’, to match the body of the lockers. Whereas the seating was in our standard slats of Ash Hardwood.The body of the Heated Lockers was powder coated in ‘Black’. The laminate doors were in the vibrant colour of ‘Ballerina’. The heated lockers were finished with Lowe & Fletcher Nimbus in ‘Black’ which is a great choice as it secures personal belongings, along with many benefits such as having a collection of user modes such as public, private, or technician mode.

Situated in one of the most expensive boroughs in the Capital, this grade 2 listed building houses 24 luxury apartments, and 1 penthouse across its 6 floors.This building was ahead of its time in 2008-10, with a curved façade and panoramic views for each apartment, designed by award-winning architects Dixon Jones. Dixon Jones Architects closed its door in September 2020 after 30 years. The architects state they were negatively affected by the Covid-19 pandemic and were both in their 80s when they closed. Some of their most famous projects include the Royal Opera House, National Gallery and Oxford and Cambridge Universities to name a few.The prices of the apartments range between £1-2 million and its understandable when the interior features contemporary finishes, full-height windows, balconies with private terraces, lift access and a car parking space. It’s set in an ideal location with 3 stations all within 0.6 miles and Chelsea football club, and Westminster hospital both within walking distance.We worked with the Architects to reach the solution of our timber leaf riser door system, Una. This allowed them to fit standard ironmongery including locks, flush bolts, and handles. The architect chose to go with our butt hinges to allow for a contemporary finish to match the interiors, although these riser doors were installed in the corridors.

Alison Park Hotel is a conversion of a former hotel to a complete renovation of the building creating ten new apartments and a townhouse. The project also included a new building extension to a further townhouse, as well as a revamping of the garages into 3 cottages. Situated in the centre of the picturesque and well-known spa town of Buxton, Alison Park Hotel benefits from features such as mock timber framing, and oriel windows and doors.Cellecta ScreedBoard 28 was specified for this project due to its unrivalled performance. The unique interlocking edges on our ScreedBoard 28 mean that no screws are required, making it easy to install, a convenience on site saving installation time.Amos Group was awarded this 1,500m² contract to develop this refurbishment and extension.

For secure mental health units, the safeguarding of both their patients and the general public is paramount. Therefore, it is imperative that patients cannot leave the hospital grounds to ensure that they cannot threaten anyone or themselves. Therefore, secure, sturdy and reliable fencing is a necessity. However, to promote relaxation and recovery for anxious and agitated patients, it is necessary to maximise the capability of this fencing to ensure that it is restful rather than solely restrictive.So, how is it possible to ensure that high-security fencing can also be calming to patients?Secure Mental Health UnitsSecure mental health units in the UK require a high level of security because they often house people who have been previously incarcerated or those who have been admitted to the hospital after committing a crime. In addition, they deliver care to patients who may pose a risk to the general public and try to help their patients recover by offering accommodation, treatment and support.Patients in secure hospitals are not allowed to leave and cannot escape if they pose a danger to themselves or others. Therefore, the security is always extremely stringent inside and outside each unit.What are the Requirments of Secure Units?Security and safety of patients is a priority for NHS mental health units. A mental health unit is not a prison; it is a hospital where patients are cared for and nursed back to recovery with treatment and support. Patients mustn’t feel like they have been locked up, and the environment needs to be calming so that patients can enjoy the restful environment conducive to their recovery.However, it is also essential that patients not come and go because the unit delivers high-level security on a secure mental health unit. Therefore, any perimeter fencing must be extremely secure to keep the patients from leaving the hospital, and patients must also not be able to break down or scale the fencing.Therefore a duality must be created where a prison-like environment exists without the hospital being perceived as a prison by the patients on the unit.The SolutionZaun HiSec Prison fencing is used as a solution to all the requirements of secure mental health units. Every panel of the HiSec 358 close mesh fencing is specifically designed to ensure the safety and security of patients within the unit.In addition to the 358 mesh, the fencing features 1.5mm solid steel sheets, pre-galvanised, powder coated and printed with an image. This provides privacy to the patients inside while maintaining a high-security level. These sheets are then fixed to the fencing with a clamp bar on the post and clamped with an additional clamp bar mid bar to maximise their durability and sturdiness. To achieve tailored and bespoke results, sheets are pre-cut to size before arriving on-site, ready for installation.One of the most important facets of the fencing is the printed image on the front of the sheets. These images, often created by local artists, are created to calm the patients on the mental health unit, making them feel less anxious and improving their positivity. Therefore, they tend to depict calming imagery, such as lush flowers or relaxing scenery.This printed fencing has the dual outcome of keeping patients safe and secure inside the secure mental health unit and giving them restful images to views, such as vibrant yellow sunflowers and the glint of sunlight through woodland. In addition, viewing nature scenes has the benefit of positively improving mental health.

The redevelopment of Thrayle House involves a collection of new builds with heights of up to 20 storeys. Changes to fire legislation placed a ban on using combustible materials on the external walls and specified attachments of new high-rise buildings. Materials used in the construction of relevant residential buildings have therefore been limited to those with a fire-rating of Class A1 or A2 under EN13501-1 standards.Project BreakdownOrientated around quality and high specifications, Thryale House was after a balcony flooring system to support its 170 new homes, accommodating for a variety of resident needs, from the elderly to families and couples.Designed to comply with all current legislation, EnviroBuild’s Luxury Porcelain Tiles were selected to furnish all balconies across the Thrayle House collection.The SolutionThese complete non-combustible balcony systems offer solutions to meet the requirements of any project without compromising on quality or sustainability. Iron, from the Ergo collection, was selected to beautifully accompany the existing shades of the build, supporting the charismatic aesthetic developed through its local connections.Along with its reliable non-combustibility, a variety of impressive benefits include anti-fade technology, scratch resistance and low maintenance requirements for resident security and ease.Project DetailsSize: 460 m²Product: Iron Outdoor Porcelain PavingSubstructure: MESA Paving SupportsClient: Henry Construction & Network HomesArchitect: PRPLocation: London

The LPS 1175 SR1 (A1), SR2 (B3) & SR3 (C5) Platinum Bi-parting Bi-folding Gate with overhead top track is a security gate which is ideal for underground car parks and sites where there is a limited area for the gate to open and close. The gate has successfully withstood forcible attack to Security Rating 1 (A1) for 1 minute, Security Rating 2 (B3) for 3 minutes and Security Rating 3 (C5) for 5 minutes.

The National Automotive Innovation Centre (NAIC) is a partnershipbetween Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG), at the Universityof Warwick, Jaguar Land Rover and Tata Motors UK. Based in theProfessor Lord Bhattacharyya Building, at the University of Warwick,the Centre is the largest automotive research facility of its kind inEurope.Cullinan Studios were appointed as architects to create a buildingthat would take inspiration from the natural world, while alsooperating as a cutting-edge, collaborative automotive research anddevelopment space. Allgood was brought into the project with abrief to complement the high-quality interior with stylish and durablearchitectural ironmongery and hardware.From the design phase, Allgood worked with the architects tostrike the balance between aesthetics and function. To meet thesedemands, Modric was specified throughout. With its timeless,elegant design, and crafted from premium solid grade 316 stainlesssteel, Modric provided the style and substance required. The rangealso comes with an industry-leading 25-year mechanical warranty forfurther reassurance.Three hundred Modric lever handles and over one hundred Modepull handles were fitted throughout the building. Allgood Securealso designed and installed a complete access control and doorautomation system, ensuring a secure, efficient, and practicalworkplace.

BACKGROUNDThrough the OJEU process, cfes were appointed by the Royal Free Hospital to design, build and maintain a Central Sterilisation Services Department (CSSD) on a brown field site in Enfield. The site incorporated 16 endoscopy reprocessors, 11 washer disinfectors, eight sterilisers, two large trolley washers and associated drying cabinets.BRIEFCfes required a modular hygienic partition system to create the process and support areas around the key equipment whilst achieving the HTM and fire rating requirements. In addition to the walls, the system also needed to support the distributed services and ceiling systems, as no load could be added to the building structure.SOLUTIONThe MIDDAS M100/M200 partition system was selected with associated structural framework, to meet all the hygienic requirements for the project. The M100/M200 severe duty framework was modulated around the key process equipment to provide the fixing locations for the beams. All beams were designed to support the distributed services with clear spans up to 10m, negating the need for secondary steel work. Hygienic ceiling tiles were suspended from the MIDDAS beams in all clean areas with acoustic ceiling tiles fitted in the support areas. The M100/M200 system benefits from full independent fire testing, where MIDDAS partitions have been tested with its proprietary flush glazing and integrated door sets as a system. This ensures the complete facility is fully compliant with the fire strategy for the project and is backed by our comprehensive test data. A further benefit of the system was that the structural framework allowed M&E services to be fitted before the finished partitions. The ceilings were then simply hung in place with factory formed cut outs to suit the service penetrations.

The redevelopment of Yatala Prison in South Australia is supporting the advancement of the state’s public prison structure, reinforcing the security and reducing the rate of offending. Dart Valley Systems have contributed to the completion of the $149 million project with the installation of their products. The products used were as follows:138 x VR01-010 High Security Ligature Resistant Toilet 4 x VR01-072 V2 High Security WC Pan Less Abled with Grey Top140 x VR01-080 High Security High Sided Integrated Basin (not including sensors) 2 x VR01-031 High Security Single Spout Integrated Basin (not including sensors) 

Radii joined this fit out in late 2023, where we worked on the design, supply and install of of a tailored glazed partition package for 28 office and meeting rooms.On Level 2, our team designed and installed a stunning Glide framed glazed screen into quad telescopic track between the reception and adjoining communal area.Large meeting rooms on Levels 2 and 4 comprised Parallel 100 (Rw 50 dB) double glazed partitions with red and blue framework respectively; Parallel 100 and single glazed Linear 30 variation screens with bronze and grey frames were utilised elsewhere in the space depending on acoustic requirements. All aluminium was finished in Radii’s dedicated in-house PPC line, with the bronze finish also used on aluminium faced tech panels. Partitions were accompanied by 64mm timber veneered acoustic doors (Rw 41 dB) and double glazed pivoting Hogan doors (Rw 39 dB).Finally, Radii’s own high-performing FirePro steel-clad fire rated screens rated at E60 were installed on all three levels.

Here at Helmsman, we have manufactured and installed two-compartment bespoke laminate lockers multiple times, and this was our third time working alongside Bombardier Services UK. The specification of the lockers was 1900mm high, 300mm wide, and 450mm deep. The bespoke laminate lockers were completed with end panels and sloping tops which is an excellent choice that reduces dust collection.The body of the laminate lockers was in our standard shade of ‘Ice’. The doors were in the shade of ‘Primeval Oak’ by Greenlam to match the light aesthetics of the room as well as to match the lockers that were manufactured and installed by Helmsman in 2022. The Laminate lockers were decorated with oval laminated number plates above the Camlocks. The Camlocks are a great choice in accessories, they assure the users that their personal belongings are safe and secure.

TBA FIREFLY™ System Sub-Divides Supermarket RoofspaceDuring the recent pandemic supermarket chains have had to continue with property maintenance and improvement programmes to ensure the safety of their premises, including a store in Staffordshire where the APOLLO Lite™ 30:30 barrier, manufactured by TBA FIREFLY™, was installed within the roof-space as part of a major refurbishment project.The work at the store was carried out by sector specialist, The B Team. All of the APOLLO Lite™ 30:30, together with the heavy duty stainless steel staples and other ancillary Firefly products, have been supplied by distributor, CCF.Commenting on the success of the work, The B Team Site Manager Adi, said ”as the architects specified vertical fire barriers in the strategy according to the Approved Document B from the Building regulations, we decided to use APOLLO Lite™ 30:30 from TBA, as we have used it and other FIREFLY™ products on other project in the past: in supermarkets and other types of building. It is easy to cut and install, fixing it vertically to the metal profiles with stainless steel screws to create 20 metre by 20 metre compartments and we used the stainless steel staples to secure the joins in the material, all in line with the manufacturer’s installations manuals.”All of The B Team’s work had to be carried out while minimising any disruption to the store’s long hours of business, with the new APOLLO Lite™ fire barriers being concealed above the building’s reinstated suspended ceilings.The APOLLO Lite™ 30:30 has been developed for use in vertical separation or compartmentation situations, offering 30 minutes integrity and insulation thereby exceeding the minimum requirements of the Building Regulations.It is widely specified to form fire barriers within roof voids and floor voids in many different property types, including tower blocks and other HMOs.The flexible woven and non woven glass fibre material is easy to cut and fix and is treated with a proprietary coating to improve its fire performance properties and therefore prevent temperatures rising in adjoining areas. The system has been fully tested to BS 476 Parts 20 & 22 and is third party certified by IFCC. The six metre long rolls of APOLLO Lite™ 30:30 have a minimum thickness of 6mm and are installed using specialist staples as well as heat resistant adhesive.

Anyone can say they offer a ‘heavy duty’ loft ladder, but what does it really mean? Premier Loft Ladders explain what you need to know. Premier Loft Ladders have been supplying high-performance retractable ladders for 20 years to a wide range of projects throughout the UK and overseas. They have established themselves as experts in this field and provide architects and designers with help choosing the right ladder for even the most challenging applications.When specifying a heavy duty loft ladder, Premier Loft Ladders always recommend the following:-      Check the ladder conforms to BS EN 14975-      Aim for a load rating of at least 200 kg per tread-      Ensure that there is a good warranty with the ladder-      Prioritise loft ladders featuring large treads and a handrailDepending on the project, fire-protection, security and operation from above may also be essential requirements.For more information about specifying heavy duty loft ladders please read the full guide.

Ryno Signature Decking in ‘Silver Birch’ takes pride of place in this new Brentwood development. The apartment block has a bold red brick exterior, with simple anthracite windows and detailing.The glass balustrades of the balconies allow the maximum level of light to enter the apartments, while making the paved courtyard feel even larger and more spacious.Products UsedTerraSmart® Composite in Silver Birch was used across the private balconies. Silver Birch, from the Signature Range of premium ‘capped’ decking, has an elegant textured wood-grain finish.The terrace spaces had additional height build-up requirements, so fixed-head adjustable pedestals were used to raise the decking to the door thresholds.

Constructed within the Mossley Hill Conservation Area, the parkland surrounding the University of Liverpool's Greenbank student residences was gifted to the university by the Rathbone family in 1939, and still offers a unique environment today. Crucially the designs for new buildings, including use of Technal's aluminium building systems respond sympathetically to the verdant setting. The Greenbank Residences replace outdated buildings and have been arranged around three landscaped courtyards, rising from five to eight storeys in height, creating over 1,370 new en-suite bedrooms. This project utilised 2,000 m2 of aluminium curtain walling, windows and doors - all of which offer high thermal performance and are finished in matt Anthracite Grey polyester powder coat.

The heat efficiency of a Grade II listed Georgian townhouse in the historic city of Bath is set to be dramatically improved as a result of the introduction of Spacetherm® Multi insulation.The challenge of dealing with heating inefficiencies, major heat loss and high heating costs are a common problem with many listed buildings and solid wall dwellings.Property owner Mike Mower explains, “I obtained planning permission to insulate the top floor of my Grade II listed Georgian townhouse as it is single skin 6” Bath stone (Oolite) and very heat inefficient, all walls have the original lime render and skim and so they need to breathe. The property in Bath was built in 1818 and has been in my family for 101 years since 1919! I am the 3rd generation to live in it and it was last renovated in 1935 so it needs serious upgrading!“The architect originally specified another insulation but this would have required encroaching 100mm into the room and would necessitate moving door frames and rebuilding window reveals. After extensive research, I identified the Spacetherm Multi aerogel product from the A. Proctor Group.“The architect was so impressed by the thermal efficiency of the Spacetherm Multi. With a total thickness of 20mm when rendered, this will not encroach onto the floor space, and the door frames and windows will not need to be altered. Subsequently we included Spacetherm Multi on the planning application as an alternative to the traditional insulation originally specified, which was approved by the Conservation officer and building control.”In addition to the Spacetherm SLENTEX® A2 blanket, foil encased Spacetherm A2 (CBS) Cold Bridge Strip was also included at window and door junctions to address areas susceptible to cold bridging.Spacetherm Multi is a high-performance laminate specifically designed to be laid directly onto existing floors & walls. Spacetherm Multi consists of Spacetherm Aerogel insulation blanket bonded to a 6mm Magnesium Oxide Board.At just 16mm thick, the use of Spacetherm Multi has virtually no negative impact on floor space, making it ideal for refurbishment projects where space is at a premium.Typically, a solid wall will have a U value of around 2.1 W/m2K. Following the application of Spacetherm Multi, this can be reduced to around 0.8 W/m2K, dependent on the wall structure.Finally, Mike Mower commented “I think Spacetherm Multi is ideal for listed building insulation as it has a minimal effect on the infrastructure of the original building. It has the potential to be used extensively in old buildings such as we have in Bath where heat loss is at a maximum, the original walls need to be able to breathe when insulated and insulation has hitherto been impossible due to the visual impact encroaching on the listed building. I am also seeking planning permission to use the product to insulate the basement floor and walls.”

Elevating Urban Living at Southbank Tower.Southbank Tower, standing tall at 41 storeys, is a symbol of inspired urban living in London’s Southwark district. The transformation of this iconic tower, originally designed by Richard Seifert in 1972, has been a collaborative effort to create a world-class mixed-use development, enhancing the public realm and providing a unique address moments from the River Thames.Project Transformation:Architectural Redesign:Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF) spearheaded a major redesign, adding 11 stories to the tower and converting upper floors into residential units.Three new floors were added to the podium, and original 1970’s cores were replaced and repositioned.The redesign included the creation of a new route through the scheme, doubling retail space, and adding valuable public areas along the riverfront.Sustainability Measures:The new construction introduced sustainability measures, including a highly-effective heat recovery system and low-energy lighting systems.Future-proofing the building with space for links to district heating and cooling schemes.Southbank Tower’s Features:Mixed-Use Tower:199 residences, 217,000 sq.ft. of office space, and 52,000 sq. ft of retail space.Private residential roof garden spanning 10,000 sq.ft and an exquisitely designed atrium.Design Collaboration:Design studios, including Goddard Littlefair, Studio Ashby, Johnson Naylor, and 1508 London, played a key role in shaping the aesthetics of the tower.The Black Edition Apartments:Interior Design Excellence:Leading interior designers, Studio Ashby and Johnson Naylor, designed the Black Edition apartments.Duplex and lateral apartments designed by Dara Huang of Design Haus Liberty and 1508 London.Selo Doors played a pivotal role in enhancing the functionality and aesthetics of Southbank Tower by providing concealed metal riser doors and sliding pocket doors. The bespoke door solutions align with the tower’s commitment to a modern, space-saving, and fire-rated environment. These doors seamlessly integrate into the architectural design, offering a flush and concealed appearance while optimizing space.Southbank Tower’s transformation is not only a testament to architectural innovation but also a reflection of collaborative efforts to create a vibrant urban living experience. Selo Doors’ contribution, through concealed metal riser doors and sliding pocket doors, adds a layer of sophistication, safety, and space optimization to this iconic development. Southbank Tower stands as a landmark in London’s skyline, representing the successful convergence of design, sustainability, and urban regeneration.