"fire"

A beautiful combination of old and new at this Grade A office development in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter. Tribeca House was designed by Falconer Chester Hall and delivered by Barnfield Construction. The original building suffered significant fire damage back in 2007 and Kamani Property Group had the surviving façade restored and sensitively combined with its new, adjoining development.A modern take on the architecture of the Northern Quarter, the new building complements the red-brick façade of the original building. Through AGF, Metal Technology Ltd supplied its high performance curtain walling systems which had a feature that enabled an interface with the striking COR-TEN (steel) vertical feature fins. The 7 storey commercial development includes high quality office and retail space, bringing further regeneration to this dynamic area of Manchester.Metal Technology products used were: System 5-35Hi Tilt Turn Windows, System 10-35 Thermally Broken Commercial Door (roof terrace), System 17 HR High Rise Curtain Walling and System 17 SP Silicone Pointed 17 High Rise Curtain Walling.We’re very proud to have been involved in this one!

We designed and installed 3 of our MG100 movable acoustic walls to a project in London to create flexible working spaces for our client. Their chosen panel finish included a magnetic wipe board along with our PanelHush PET acoustic wall panels. The PET panels help reduce the room echo/reverberation which gives a better working environment. PanelHush PET range is a 100% recyclable acoustic panel that is manufactured from recycled PET bottles. Weuse 65% post-consumer recycled fibres and our products are 100% recyclable.The PET panels come in 12mm or 24mm thick sheets with a choice of 14 different colours to match your design need The installation of our MG100 movable acoustic wall panels gives an element of flexibility which is suddenly added to your space. Therefore, the environment can quickly be manipulated to cater for any of your flexible space needs. Whether that be for meetings or a little bit of privacy. Our MG100 Series also has a strong fire rating of up to 1 hour. We believe that not only should our products look sleek and provide a practical option, but most importantly, they should be able to be called upon in times of emergency.

Nearly forty years after the lights were switched off at Battersea Power Station, a decommissioned Grade II listed coal-fired power station, located on the south bank of the River Thames, this much loved London landmark recently re-opened to the public following a transformational eight-year restorationApple Inc. will be leasing approximately 500,000 sq ft. across 6 floors of the central Boiler House and plans to move all of its 1,400 London employees to the new venue. This will make Apple by far the largest tenant at Battersea Power Station.221m² of Stravifloor Channel, a resilient high-performance floating floor based on floor channels containing steel springs as resilient supports was installed to decouple the acoustically critical listening, screening and control room spaces at Battersea Power Station.The added insulation material between the channels contributes to the acoustic optimization of the spaces by preventing the so-called standing wave effect to take place within the air void.During the installation of the acoustic floating floor, careful attention was paid to the many service penetrations as improper installation would most certainly lead to rigid connection which in turn affect the system’s performance.

Hotel Café Royal has just undergone a complete refurbishment and internal re-build. Part of the new complex is a state-of-the-art Spa and Gym which is located in the basement. Directly next to the hotel is Regent Street, below which runs the Bakerloo underground train line.Structure-borne noise levels from the trains were far too high to create the relaxing environment required for a top class Spa. The acoustic consultants therefore specified that all of the noise sensitive spaces must be isolated on a Stravifloor Deck concrete floating floor system.Café Royal’s 1,200 sqm Wellbeing Centre provides a personal and intimate holistic experience. It has a large lap pool and four different areas, corresponding to the four natural elements: spa/water, gym/fire, yoga/air and organic bar/earth.The spa offers a variety of Watsu hydro-experiences, a private and communal Hammam and signature Akasha treatments. Moods are enhanced by restorative music, aromas and gentle lighting. The gym has the most advanced fitness equipment, including Kinesis machines. There is a spacious aerobics studio and a private training room. Yoga, Tai-Chi and Pilates are offered in the calming area, with bespoke classes.

Providing 21 affordable homes in the first ‘carbon negative’ housing community of its kind in the UK. The initial concept began in 2009 with the aim of creating carbon negative housing. The project is ground breaking with a plan to lock away as much carbon as possible whilst generating excess energy from systems installed.Lewis Deck light weight steel/ screed composite floor system providing acoustic floors improving Building Regulations Part E standards by at least 8dB was installed in the apartments.This project achieved a Zero Carbon certification under the Code for Sustainable Homes and achieved Passiv Haus standards, but was not certified under this system. The performance was monitored by the Technology Strategy Board (TSB) as well as how the social tenants found the experience of living there given the lifestyle adjustments that were needed.The Lewis Deck was used as it achieved the enhanced acoustic and fire performance required in this project, especially given that this was a timber frame development. The elements of the building also had to achieve an A+ Green Guide to Specification rating from the BRE, this was achieved by using a liquid screed on top of the deck that contained a high recycled content.The project won a number of awards and was marketed as the UK's 1st "Carbon Negative" social housing scheme.

Rhodes House is set in a large garden on Oxfords South Parks Road, it was designed by Herbert Baker in the 1920s and is the base for the Rhodes Trust – a charitable trust founded by imperialist Cecil Rhodes which offers scholarships to the University of Oxford.To enable the trust to more forward and offer more scholarships Stanton Williams’ set about “architecturally liberating the building, to unlock its potential as a diverse and inspiring platform for ethical, creative and courageous people across geographies, cultures and disciplines.” The project included restoring the original building as well as creating 40 ensuite bedrooms, improved office accommodation, a range of meeting spaces and a hall for 300 people in the basement.3v worked in partnership with Stanton Williams and Beard Construction to develop the perfect Ironmongery scheme to work with both the old and new elements of the building using a mixture of antique brass for refurbished areas and stainless steel for new accommodation. We also undertook an extensive review of all existing doors and hardware and upgraded hinges, closers and signage to meet current UK fire regulations. Our products work seamlessly with the architects design aspirations helping to create a wonderful collaboration of old and new.Photography: Neil Kenyon

The BriefQueenborough School and Nursery in Kent were looking to upgrade their outdoor space to create an all-weather outdoor learning and play area adjacent to one of their classrooms. As such, they contracted Carré Consultancy to source a supplier to help them create this new area and they chose Able Canopies.They wanted to create an outdoor area which could be used all year round. This created some challenges; outdoor spaces can become wet and slippery during rainy periods and too much exposure to UV rays can be harmful to our health.The SolutionThe staff at Queenborough wanted the area to look good whilst also offering functionality for lessons and play. As such, we proposed a 17.04m x 4.65m Coniston Wall Mounted Canopy that was supported by rear steel goal posts as the supporting wall was not suitable for a wall mounted structure. It was agreed that the canopy should feature side fills on both ends to block wind driving in from either side of the canopy and would be enclosed along the front with secure roller shutters and commercial fire doors. As we offer the whole package, we were also able to include the supply and installation of soft play safety surfacing underneath and leading to the canopy.

When the government instructed people to work from home during the Covid-19 pandemic, the gym where Wirral-based personal trainer Megan Hewitt worked closed down. So, Megan and partner Dan decided to build a fitness studio in their garden to allow her to conduct video personal training sessions during lockdown. To ensure the 6m x 3m timber frame building would be suitable for use all year round, it was essential to insulate the roof and walls.The couple researched various types of insulation online and narrowed it down to Mineral Wool because of its thermal performance and fire safety. They had three other considerations: it had to be good at blocking noise, have excellent sustainability credentials, and be easy to install, as they planned to fit it themselves.Just one product for all applicationsTheir research showed that Knauf Insulation 50mm and 70mm OmniFit Slab ticked all the boxes. It is a multi-application slab, meaning the couple didn’t need to purchase separate products for the roof and walls. What’s more, it offers a higher level of thermal performance than alternative versatile slabs on the market.It is manufactured from Glass Mineral Wool and is non-combustible with a Euroclass A1 Reaction to Fire Classification, meaning it will not add to the development or spread of a fire should it occur.Keeping quietAs any exercise fanatic knows, a good workout needs a strong soundtrack and Megan wanted to motivate clients without becoming a noisy neighbour. OmniFit Slab provides excellent levels of acoustic performance thanks to its open fibre structure that absorbs sound waves.Insulation that doesn’t cost the earthSustainability was another important factor for the couple. Like all of Knauf Insulation’s Glass Mineral Wool insulation, it is manufactured from up to 80% recycled content, mostly used glass bottles and jars that would otherwise go to landfill.It is also manufactured with ECOSE® Technology, Knauf Insulation’s unique bio-based binder, which contains no added formaldehyde or phenol. ECOSE® Technology is made from natural raw materials that are rapidly renewable and is 70% less energy-intensive to manufacture than traditional binders, so it is more environmentally-friendly.Products made with ECOSE® Technology are soft to touch and easy to handle. They generate low levels of dust and VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and have been awarded the Eurofins Indoor Air Comfort Gold Standard.Its softness was a benefit that Megan noticed during installation. She said: “I remember helping my Dad with our ‘old-school’ Mineral Wool loft insulation when I was younger and it was horrible, it irritated my skin for 24 hours after. But the OmniFit was fine – there was no irritation whatsoever.”Installation was no sweatA tight fit between joints is essential to eliminate gaps that can reduce thermal and acoustic performance, but with some types of insulation it can be difficult to achieve the high quality installation required. OmniFit Slab is manufactured to provide friction fitting to ensure all joints are sealed correctly. Despite having no previous experience, Megan, Dan and a friend fitted the 40m2 OmniFit Slab themselves over the course of a day.“Before fitting the insulation, we watched an installation video on YouTube,” said Megan. “We followed the techniques shown and it was really easy to install. We had no problems at all.”“I’m delighted with the finished result. When the fitness studio was finished, we kept turning up the stereo to see whether the insulation really was soundproof – even at full blast, you couldn’t hear the music outside. It’s amazing.”“Before we put the insulation in, I was exercising in winter gear with the radiator on full – now the studio is lovely and warm. I’m back in vests and I haven’t had to put the heating on at all.”Thanks to Knauf Insulation OmniFit Slab, Megan and her clients can enjoy a high energy workout in a warm, safe environment – without disturbing her neighbours. What’s more, the insulation is sustainable and will ensure the studio’s energy consumption and carbon emissions are low over its lifetime. Note: Megan, Dan and her friend maintained social distancing guidelines during the insulation install. Megan continues to follow government guidelines for the operation of gyms and exercise facilities, conducting her sessions online when in-person training is not possible.

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.

Rockfon® Lamella has been awarded Product Innovation of the Year in the Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment category of the FIS Innovation Awards 2023. The modular wall system provides Class A sound absorption for commercial projects and boasts a unique range of wood veneers in different colours and dimensions, allowing for an impressive 650,000 design combinations.Nigel Watkins, Commercial Sales Director for Rockfon, expressed his excitement about the recognition, saying, "We are thrilled that Rockfon Lamella has won this award only a few weeks after its launch." Rockfon Lamella's development was based on effective collaboration, knowledge transfer, and partnership along the project team, satisfying two initial criteria for Rockfon innovation: modularity and customisability, and occupiers' well-being through the use of colour, biophilic-inspired design, and natural surfaces.Combining the warmth and beauty of wood with a stone wool sound-absorbent panel, Rockfon Lamella creates a serene and inviting environment inspired by the biophilic design trend. Customers have expressed their satisfaction with the combination of these elements, with Nigel Watkins sharing that "The feedback we’ve had from customers is that the combination of a stone wool sound absorbent panel with biophilic wood makes interiors feel calm and connected to nature."Joe Cilia , Technical Director of FIS who was one of the Innovation Award judges, was impressed that Rockfon Lamella has such comprehensive test data, covering the whole system, not just individual components. “The furniture, fixtures and equipment (FFE) sector suffers from a lack of standardised testing and compliance for acoustic and fire performance, leading to clients choosing products that don’t perform as well as they should. The judges were impressed that Rockfon Lamella has clear, transparent test data that shows how the whole system performs.”Rockfon Lamella sets itself apart from other acoustic fixtures and fittings by offering exceptional fire performance classification of c-S2,d0, in line with EN 13501 standards, and Class A sound absorption that adheres to ISO 11654 regulations. Additionally, accessing all the necessary specification data, BIM Objects, and CAD drawings on NBS Chorus, NBS Source, and pCON is quick and easy, making the specification process quick and effortless.Rockfon Lamella simplifies installation by providing a complete kit that includes all necessary components. In-house facilities teams can easily follow the straightforward installation process, thanks to specially designed mounting clips. As Teemu Rekonen, Head of Design & Innovation at Rockfon, highlights: "This advanced product... enables individual placement of the slats to create the perfect acoustic environment. Once the platform is in place, installing Lamella slats is a quick and hassle-free process that requires no tools".Visit www.soundsbeautiful.com/lamella  for more information on Rockfon Lamella.To view all the FIS Innovation Award winners visit www.thefis.org/membership-hub/fis-awards/innovation/

In the new Ceramic Tile Distributors (CTD) showroom in Woking, Surrey, tile products by Saint-Gobain Weber have been specified for their new 400m² sales facility which includes an extensive showroom and trade counter.Relocation of Ceramic Tile Distributors (CTD) from their original showroom on the junction of Goldsmith Road and Church Street West to Kestrel Road a few miles away was brought about by the £150m redevelopment of Woking town centre."The relocation of CTD has not presented a problem," says Rob Stevens, manager, CTD Woking. "The showroom looks brilliant – it's bigger and better, and our trade custom has definitely increased. We also attract lots of private customers who enjoy the simplicity of the large sample displays and the huge variety of tiles for every location."Several site visits were made by Weber's tile specialists to inspect the floor substrate and identify the appropriate materials. The floor was prepared with weber PR360, a multi-purpose priming solution suitable for most building substrates including wood, anhydrite, plaster and cement/sand screed. This primer regulates the porosity of the substrate and improves adhesion and the flow of levelling compounds.High performance, fibre-modified weberfloor flex was then applied which is a self-smoothing and self-levelling compound suitable for most substrates. It has rapid setting qualities and can take light foot traffic after just 3 hours. It is also one of the many products in the Saint-Gobain Weber range to feature Low Dust Technology™ which makes it cleaner and more comfortable for the applicator to use.Large format GEMINI Young Stone tiles in grey were set with weberset rapid plus ECO which is a very rapid strength tile adhesive for low porosity tiles, such as ceramic, porcelain and natural stone, and has been specifically developed to allow easy bedding of large format tiles. It is suitable for use on solid substrates and is ready for grout in only 2 hours. The new ECO formulation contains cement replacement technology which reduces the product's environmental impact of initial excavation and contributes to a significant reduction in transportation costs.The CTD Woking showroom floor was grouted with weberjoint wide which is suitable for very wide joints from 2-20mm. This is a cement-based floor and wall grout which gives a coarse textured finish. It has the added benefit of Mould Stop Technology which ensures lasting protection from mould growth, it's also abrasive-resistant and available in seven colours.As part of Woking's redevelopment, the bandstand, fire station and market place will all be demolished to make way for a new complex featuring shops, apartments, parking and a hotel. On the old CTD site a brand new state-of-the-art fire station is to be developed providing additional space and working areas for the crews and an improved training facility.

Central M40, a 70 acre industrial estate situated off J11 of the M40 in Banbury, comprises six warehouses totalling over 1 million sq ft of accommodation – equivalent to roughly 17 football pitches. The estate was developed speculatively by db Symmetry*, who specified CA Group’s robust Twin-Therm® Built-up Roof and Wall systems.A key component of the Twin-Therm® building envelope system is Therma-Quilt, a bespoke high-performance Glass Mineral Wool insulation. It is manufactured by Knauf Insulation specifically for CA Group and is the result of a long standing partnership between the two companies.Therma-Quilt is ideally suited for non-residential cladding applications. It offers outstanding performance and functionality available in different thicknesses to support the Twin-Therm® system, delivering enhanced thermal U-values as low as 0.09W/m2K. It is non-combustible with a Euroclass A1 Reaction to Fire Classification, meaning it will not contribute to the development or the spread of a fire.Therma-Quilt is also a high-performing acoustic insulation. In Twin-Therm® roof applications, it helps reduce the drumming effect of rainwater, while in Twin-Therm® wall applications, it aids with sound reduction and can minimise the reverberation of internal sound when used in conjunction with perforated metal liner sheets. Therma-Quilt has been developed with water resistance in mind and uses materials that help prevent water ingress.The Twin-Therm® system has been designed with sustainability in mind and Therma-Quilt is no exception. Knauf Insulation’s Glass Mineral Wool products contain up to 80% recycled materials. This saves on virgin raw materials and energy demands, cuts carbon emissions, and reduces waste going to landfill.It is manufactured with ECOSE® Technology, Knauf Insulation's unique bio-based binder that contains no added formaldehyde or phenol. It is made from natural raw materials that are rapidly renewable and is 70% less energy-intensive to manufacture than traditional binder, so it is more environmentally-friendly.Products made with ECOSE® Technology are soft to touch and easy to handle. They generate low levels of dust and VOCs and have been awarded the Eurofins Gold Certificate for Indoor Air Comfort.In total, more than 70 tonnes of Therma-Quilt insulation were used on the six megasheds on the Central M40 development. While the industrial estate was built speculatively, its strategic location has previously attracted premium occupiers including Hellofresh, Prodrive Motorsport, TVS Supply Chain Solutions and Rinkit.Thanks to the Twin-Therm® system with its Therma-Quilt insulation, the warehouses have achieved BREEAM ‘Very Good’ ratings, while the businesses using them will enjoy more comfortable, warmer and safer working environments – and lower energy costs. *db Symmetry has rebranded as Tritax Symmetry

Factory International will transform the former Granada Studios into a world-class cultural and arts venue in the heart of Manchester. It features The Hall, a large auditorium, and The Warehouse, a flexible multi-purpose space that is taller than four double-decker buses, longer than a jumbo jet and can accommodate 5,000 visitors.Alongside the two public events spaces are The Towers, which house the ground floor entrance foyer, five floors of office space and a plant room at the top of the building. Noise reduces productivity by 66% so when it came to specifying the soffit insulation for The Towers, the architect wanted a solution that would limit airborne sound transfer and reverberation.The insulation would be on display, so aesthetics was also important, and because Factory International will cater for large crowds of people, the chosen solution needed to be non-combustible.Meeting the briefThe architects specified Knauf Insulation’s 50mm Heraklith® Tektalan A2 SmartTec for the soffit insulation in the ground floor foyer of the Warehouse area, main feature staircase, offices and plant room of The Towers.Heraklith® Tektalan A2 SmartTec is a cement-bonded wood wool panel combined with a rock mineral wool insulation core. Both materials have an open structure that naturally absorbs the kinetic energy of sound waves, turning them into heat. It is also non-combustible with an Euroclass A2-s1,d0 reaction to fire classification.Crucially, the Heraklith® wood wool range is also designed for applications where aesthetics is important because the panel is on display. It features bevelled edges and comes in nature tone as standard, or can be ordered in any RAL colour upon request, to create a stylish, uniform finish.To compliment the design schemes in the different zones across the building, contractors, Mansell Building Solutions, ordered the panels in a combination of midnight blue, pebble grey, anthracite and black.Scheduling deliveriesAs the Factory International site is quite compact, there was little room available for storage. So, Knauf Insulation worked closely with distributor Encon Insulation to ensure the insulation was held in stock. Smaller deliveries were then made in line with Mansell Building Solutions’s schedule of works. This ensured that the insulation could be installed as soon as it arrived on site.The product is quick and easy to install. Panels are fixed into position by installing Heraklith® DDS Plus Concrete Screws into each corner and the centre of the panel. The fastener heads have a patented wood wool texture to enhance the finished appearance.Ultimately, installing Heraklith® Tektalan A2 SmartTec onto the soffits in The Towers and the ground floor foyer of the Warehouse not only compliments the design scheme and contributes to fire safety, but it will enable the team behind the events at Factory International to enjoy a quieter working environment too. 

At 73m, Thames Quarter is Reading’s second tallest building. It will include 315 built-to-rent apartments, a hub for tech start-ups, a cinema, dining rooms, roof terraces and a residents’ lounge overlooking the Thames.Specialist contractor Precision Façades chose high-performance insulation solutions that would not only contribute to homeowner comfort but would also be kinder to installers. The company specified more than 20,000m2 of Knauf Insulation’s Glass and Rock Mineral Wool insulation for the project.Steve McGowen, Managing Director of Precision Façades explained that Knauf Insulation is the company’s preferred supplier thanks to the high level of support it provides. He said: “Knauf Insulation’s Sales Team are always on hand to help us with our orders, they also have a Technical Team who can provide 3D U-value calculations, and crucially, they are always able to deliver our orders quickly.”The design called for a variety of façade panels manufactured from different materials and finishes, which affected the thermal performance required across the build. To accommodate this, Precision Façades used Knauf Insulation Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab in four different thicknesses (50mm, 100mm, 140mm and 190mm) for the rainscreen façade. It also used 100mm and 150mm OmniFit® Roll 40 within the steel framing system.Both Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab and OmniFit® Roll 40 offer the required levels of thermal performance. They are non-combustible with the best possible Euroclass A1 reaction to fire classification so will not contribute to the development or spread of fire should it occur. This means both products meet the requirements of building regulations in England and Wales banning the use of combustible materials on all buildings over 18m. Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab has also been certified by the British Board of Agrément (BBA) for use in high rise residential applications.Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab and OmniFit® Roll 40 also have excellent sound absorption characteristics ensuring quiet spaces for residents, even while moviegoers enjoy surround sound.In addition to delivering the required thermal performance, both Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab and OmniFit® Roll 40 improve installer’s experience of using Mineral Wool. This is because they are manufactured with ECOSE® Technology, Knauf Insulation's unique bio-based binder that contains no added formaldehyde or phenol.Products made with ECOSE® Technology are soft to touch and easy to handle. They generate low levels of dust and VOCs and have been awarded the Eurofins Gold Certificate for Indoor Air Comfort.As well as being kind to installers, ECOSE® Technology is made from natural raw materials that are rapidly renewable and is 70% less energy-intensive to manufacture than traditional binders.Thanks to Knauf Insulation’s Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab and OmniFit® Roll 40, residents at Thames Quarter will enjoy warm, safe, and comfortable homes, built with insulation that is kinder to installers and the environment.

Cardigan Integrated Care Centre is a brand new healthcare centre in West Wales, housing a GP practice, dental service and pharmacy.Each unit was pre-plumbed and tested at the Venesta factory, reducing installation time by 50% and giving the end user added peace of mind.The aim of the £24m development was to provide safe, sustainable, integrated care for local residents. The anticipated high footfall meant durable and hardwearing solutions were required in all consultation rooms and washroom areas.Hygiene and infection control were of paramount importance, so we worked closely with Accredited Installers, Shire Integrated Systems, to ensure fit for purpose healthcare solutions were selected.Vepps Boxed-Out Units were specified for all the consultation rooms and offered speedy installation, while maintaining the integrity of rear fire walls and acoustic rated walls. The Solid Grade Laminate (SGL) box sides in ‘Shadow’ were rebated into strong extruded aluminium frames that provide flush, easy to clean surfaces.Meanwhile, Vepps Wall System panelling was specified for the toilet areas, which meant the WCs, flushes, basins and taps were pre-plumbed and thoroughly tested before being delivered to the Centre for installation.Read the full case study for full details.

DuPont Teijin Films is a leading global producer of polyester films, specialising in film products and related services for many industries.The Project17 Hart doors including Speedor Super, Speedor Storm, Speedor Mini, Fire ShutterThe ChallengeDuPont required a company that could offer the reliability of both the industrial doors and the service provided. When doors are left open or closed for any length of time, it can directly affect the manufacturing process. DuPont needed a product and a company they could trust to provide reliable and consistent service, saving them money by reducing downtime.The SolutionHart has manufactured, installed and serviced a range of industrial high-speed doors for a range of benefits to the customer, including increasing efficiency by giving faster alternative access to the area, rather than using a large, slow roller shutter.The SuccessDuPont has chosen Hart as their door supplier for over 35 years due to the dependability of the product and service. DuPont put the investment in Hart due to the quality and longevity of Hart doors, understanding they are value for money with a low total cost of ownership and better return of investment than a cheaper product. Hart maintain 36 doors in total. The first Hart doors were installed in 1985.

Armourcoat surface finishes have played a central role in the comprehensive refurbishment of the iconic Minster Building in the heart of London’s business district, applying over 600m2 of it's seamless Acoustic Plaster System to the ceilings.The interior design by architects BuckleyGrayYeoman for Ivanhoé Cambridge and its development/asset manager Greycoat Real Estate LLP, has created a major repositioning of the building built around the central eight storey atrium. The ground floor reception is approached by a 30 metre long boulevard from the new entrance on the corner of Mincing Lane and Great Tower Street. The original entrance has also been retained to Minster Court piazza.Designed to optimize the acoustics of interior spaces, the Armourcoat Acoustic Seamless Plaster system offers a clean and smooth mineral surface that can be applied seamlessly over large expanses to both flat and curved surfaces. Comprising of a special mineral wool composite panel that is bonded onto the substrate and finished with a seamless layer, the system offers an elegant marble based plaster finish while allowing sound energy to pass through the surface. The zero VOC system, which consists of over 70% recycled material, achieves class '0' fire rating and a class 'A' Noise Reduction Coefficient rating.Photography: Jonathan Banks

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

Winner of the MIPM 2010 award for Hotels and Tourism, which is presented for outstanding real state projects worldwide, the Kameha Grand was designed by architect Karl-Heinz Schommer Bonner. The unique elliptical section design did however make serious demands on the requirement for protection against thermal bridging. The architect discussed the issue with Schöck, the European specialists in thermal bridging solutions and it was agreed that a combination of three product variants would meet the requirement.The outer concrete arches on the roof and facade of the building cantilever 1.30 m on each side and this, combined with the subtle design of the facade, meant that it was not possible to use a standard thermal break solution. To minimise any thermal bridging problems along the two outer arcs an inventive solution had to be found by the Schöck design team. This was achieved by dividing the projecting element of the framework into a number of sections and using the appropriate Isokorb® T for the required forces. At the ground floor Isokorb® T type Q is used, with T type D being installed higher up the structure, followed by T type K on the top floor. Because of the arch profile, the Isokorb® T type D was cut and installed at 90 degrees and run under the curved edge of the roof emergency exits, providing F90 fire protection.

The Rowe is a new architecturally designed office space in Whitechapel London, where tradition meets innovation. With outside space on every level, the building sets a sustainable benchmark for new office space in central London. The new elements mimics the horizontal banding of the 1960s concrete building as well as contrasting with a steel structure and dark metal palette.The architects, Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, had used KEIM previously. They contacted KEIM as they wanted a sustainable product in keeping with their core values. Samples were carried out, as shown in the photo below, to determine the most suitable colour.First off, KEIM Concrete Repair Mortar (KEIM Concretal-MR 2.0) was used for large repairs within the concrete. KEIM Fine Finishing Mortar (KEIM Concretal-FSP 0.2) was then used for levelling repairs as it is a much finer aggregate mix.KEIM Soldalit CL018, a light grey colour, was chosen to compliment the steel structure and due to its characteristics, was applied onto the previously painted surface without the need for a primer. It is fire resistant – A2-s1, d0 classified and Cradle to Cradle certified.The Rowe has been shortlisted for an AJ Retrofit Award 2023 in the Workspace (£10m and over) category. It was also awarded BREEAM ‘Excellent’, WELL ‘Platinum’ and received SmartScore certification.

A careful combination of A2 fire rated soffit panels, rainscreen cladding and mesh screens from Proteus Facades has helped band together the impressive new £42m Sciences Centre at Durham University. Based within the grounds of the Upper Mountjoy Campus, the new Mathematical Sciences and Computer Science building has been developed to create synergy between the two departments, which have been earmarked for significant growth within the Durham University Strategy – 2017-2027. The building features state-of-the-art teaching facilities and office space, including a specialist IT Lab with a designated server room, a 120-seat tiered lecture theatre and tutorial rooms. While a café and breakout spaces, as well as four enclosed courtyards make up the communal areas. Creating a bright space for students, staff and visitors to meet and relax, Proteus Facades manufactured striking 2.0mm Aluminium Proteus IP interlocking planks with a PPC Traffic White Matte (RAL 9016) finish for use on the façades of the four internal courtyards. GSS Architecture chose the Proteus IP aluminium PPC in Traffic White because it accentuates and reflects natural light creating an enhanced ambience in the teaching spaces that face onto the courtyards, whilst complementing the glass curtain walling system.

Manufactured panels have a different level of acoustic reduction, but all of them provide the kind of flexibility needed to work perfectly within any office or commercial environment following a professional installation from ModernGlide.Because there is no need for a structural head support, this makes the MG200 series perfect for smaller openings. The versatility of our sliding folding wall partitions continue through the format of slimline stacking. This means that when the wall is not in use, it will take up minimal space in your environment.Additionally, the MG200 sliding partition series comes standard with a pass door panel which allows movement from side-to-side with seamless ease. We are able to offer a complete solution for all of your acoustic sliding partition needs.A continuous acoustic wall partitions system, it is perfect for a quick and easy set-up process and is our most popular budget solution for acoustic partitions that move.MG200 Wall Partitions Key FactsAcoustic reduction from 37dB to 49dBFloor-supportingPanel widths 450mm to 900mmHeight up to 4,000mmPass door as standardCentre-folding or end-folding stacking optionsPanel finishes include melamine, laminate, veneer and white boardIntegral glazing options30 minute fire rating option

Located in East London, on a water gateway between the River Thames and over 2,000 miles of navigable canals, the six-building Limehouse Basin development comprised of a white EPS insulation board that was fixed to horizontal PVC rails that created a drained cavity between the insulated façade system and the substrate.Due to strict regulations introduced in December 2018 following the Grenfell tragedy, which states any building exceeding 18 metres in height must have walls comprised of non-combustible materials, this building was deemed non-compliant, unsafe, and not fit-for-purpose.Development owners Beckford, supported by the Building Safety Fund (BSF), required an expert team to execute the removal of the existing EWI and replace it with an appropriate alternative, without disrupting the unique aesthetic of the building.The combination of K Systems and Retrofit UK, two companies renowned for their expertise, quality of service, and superiority in the market, was an obvious choice for Beckfords.We have a good portfolio of BSF projects to date, and Limehouse Basin is another great example of how our team along with one of our approved installers can help make a building fit for purpose, whilst overcoming numerous challenges along the way. Unrivalled expertise and professional delivery are apparent in every groove and corner of this refurbishment.Our ServiceTogether with Approved Installer Retrofit UK, K Systems continued works despite Covid restrictions (adhering to Government guidelines) to deliver the Limehouse Basin project within the agreed timeframe and with minimal disruption to residents as requested by the client.Removal of the existing EWI system took place in rotation with the installation of the new system, and a robust programme was put into place by the contractor to ensure the building was not exposed to the elements for long periods of time, ensuring the residents were kept as comfortable as possible especially during the winter months. Decanting of the residents did not take place, so we worked alongside all parties to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the residents were prioritised during the works.Due to the nature of this project, technical monitoring from the K Systems team was increased, and weekly visits were planned along with a reactive approach to any on-site issues that arose from a technical perspective. Our technical teams actioned regular quality assessments and maintained open communication with all stakeholders.The result – an industry-leading insulated façade solution that fulfilled Beckfords’ criteria and delivered an outstanding architectural design and structure, fully compliant with fire regulations and boasting a better U-value which translates to better living conditions for the residents.Technical Project DetailsThe key objective for the Limehouse Basin project was to remove the non-compliant EWI system and replace it with a non-combustible system to meet current building regulations.Our team insist on being involved from the very concept of any BSF project to ensure an accurate specification could be developed and allow any initial underlying issues to be identified and rectified swiftly. Therefore, our Technical Team witnessed the removal of the existing system and inspected the substrate thoroughly.After extensive scoping, the K Systems M, mineral wool insulation, system with a silicone render finish was chosen as the preferred option, meeting the demands and needs of the client and current building regulations. This system provides high levels of fire resistance and non-combustibility (an A2-s1, d0) bringing it in line with mandatory Government requirements for buildings over 18m tall.With superb acoustic qualities and excellent environmental properties, the M System didn’t just tick the fire resistance box. The thermal performance of the building was significantly enhanced, with a U-value of 0.30W/m².k being achieved.The shape of the buildings were complex, with numerous curved areas of various facades. This meant the finish required an expert eye and a skilled hand to deliver seamlessly. Both K Systems and Retrofit are renowned for their expertise and superiority in the market, and therefore such challenges were overcome, and high standards of workmanship delivered.Another very challenging aspect of the build was the replication of the rainscreen cladding to the front of the buildings. This detail was successfully created by using tape joints, stop beads, and black silicone mastic to create a shadow gap – further testament to the expert capabilities of our team. This particular finish not only delivered the desired aesthetic but delivered an additional benefit of cost savings for the client.We worked closely with Retrofit UK throughout the duration of the refurb and as a result the Limehouse Basin buildings have a contemporary finish and attractive aesthetic worthy of the projects postcode, and one we are confident existing residents welcomed and potential residents appreciated.

One of the first projects we worked on with Vox Ignis was a 16-storey student accommodation development in Bournemouth with an adjoining car park and office building, that required an Emergency Voice Communication System (EVCS). The property developer was – and remains to this day – one of our largest clients, so we knew we had to work with a partner we could trust and that had the capability to provide us with products that were really at the cutting-edge of the safety and security industries.Prior to this, just after they’d launched Vox Ignis, the two founding partners of the firm had both paid a visit to our headquarters in the South East to show us their marketing material.  Once they demonstrated a few examples of their products, we were sold on them As a company which specialises in the design, installation and maintenance of fire and security systems, we know that the products we buy have to be not only innovative but also aesthetically pleasing, as a lot of the people we work with are architects and creatives. This is what really made Vox Ignis stand head and shoulders above everyone else we’d worked with. Not only were their products leaders in their field in terms of technology but they were also, by far, the best-looking products out there from a design point of view.3x VILX-TMS-W-8 Master Stations6x VILX-EX-8 Expander Panels44x VILX-OSB Type B Outstations

Designed by architects Studio E, the BREEAM Excellent rated building features over 2,000 Ultima aluminium insulated panels in varying lengths and depths up to 4500mm and 800mm respectively, finished in four different RAL colours The company also supplied a range of ventilated Bird’s Beak style panels, pressings, copings and cills that further added to the overall aesthetic of the building’s façade. The Ultima aluminium insulated panels were designed, supplied and manufactured by Metalline Architectural Fabrications. Metalline has become one of the UK’s leading fabricators of specialist architectural fabrication in the UK, developing innovative solutions for a range of flagship projects. Finished in four different RAL colours – reed green, pastel green, light green and mint turquoise – the overall effect of the multi coloured, multi-dimensional panels is one of inspiration that sits perfectly with the ultimate goals of the Academy’s vision for its pupils future. Metalline’s Ultima aluminium insulated panels are extremely versatile and possess excellent acoustic, thermal and fire performance ratings. They are typically produced using class A1 non-combustible insulation core and can be adapted to fit a variety of facade details, which include the ability to be glazed into a standard curtain walling or structural glazing system. The panels can also be perforated and manufactured into a variety of shapes to meet the most challenging design criteria. Ultima aluminium insulated panels can be fabricated up to an impressive 6000mm in one length.

Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust boast a brand new Assessment and Treatment Unit at the Lynfield Mount Hospital in Bradford.STJ Projects Ltd manufactured and installed a full range of doorset solutions across the new unit including:R-Quest Severe Duty Seclusion Suite doorsets, which are steel interlaid to provide a severe robustness R-Quest Heavy Duty Fire Rated doorsets R-Quest Heavy Duty Anti-Barricade doorsetsR-Quest Lock Back Frames, both 90 & 180 degree lock back facilitiesThese doorsets look stunning with real Ash hardwood frames and architraves, clear lacquered to show the beauty of the timber, along side the door leaves which varied in colour and material. The Seclusion & Common area Bathrooms were impact resistance and anti-bacterial PVC encapsulated and all other doors were faced with anti-bacterial laminate, with a natural Pearl Grey colour across all common areas with individual bedroom doors having their own unique colour. This ATU facility, for adults over 18 with moderate to severe learning disabilities and mental health problems, whose needs cannot be supported at home, in the community or in other adult mental health wards is a fresh offering to provide the much needed support they deserve from daily living needs to maintaining independent skills.

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

London's most sustainable office space.The JJ Mack Building, strategically located just 150m from Farringdon Station, stands as one of London’s most innovative and sustainable office spaces. Beyond its prime location, the building distinguishes itself by embracing cutting-edge technology to enhance the well-being of its occupants and champion sustainable operation practices.The JJ Mack Building stands out for its integration of smart and intelligent building features. Utilizing a highly detailed “digital twin,” the entire building’s systems are meticulously modeled, allowing for comprehensive monitoring and control at various levels. This innovative technology ensures a dynamic and responsive environment tailored precisely to occupant needs.The digital twin technology isn’t just about monitoring; it facilitates the precise tailoring of the building’s performance, aligning every aspect with occupant requirements. This commitment to customization enhances the day-to-day experience and supports highly sustainable and considered operation. In this endeavor, we played a vital role by supplying concealed metal riser doors on all floors.Our contribution to The JJ Mack Building involved providing fire-rated metal riser doors, seamlessly concealed on all floors. These doors play a crucial role in the building’s safety infrastructure while remaining discreetly integrated into the overall design. The concealed doors align with the building’s commitment to a sleek and modern aesthetic, ensuring a seamless blend of safety and design.

‘The STEAMhouse building’, launched by Birmingham University is the winner of the Victorian Society’s Birmingham and West Midlands Conservation Award, in recognition of outstanding restoration.The STEAMhouse building dates back to 1899 and was seriously damaged by fire in 2007. Previously used as a manufacturer for the Eccles Rubber & Cycle Company this Grade A listed building undertook a £70m transformation to become the creative hub it is today. The space now supports businesses, academics, hosting companies and start-up businesses, supporting enterprise and industry. The Victorian Society was so impressed with the transformation of this historic building that it has been presented with the 'Birmingham and West Midlands Conservation Award 2023', in recognition of outstanding restoration.Mumford & Wood supported this transformation by designing and manufacturing 45 bespoke timber windows and door, tailored to fit the unique openings found on the façade of the building.Matthew Blaylock, Commercial Director, Mumford & Wood states:“We enjoy the challenges that listed buildings bring, and so with strict planning requirements in place, we understood the importance of replicating the detail of the original windows but offering the performance of a modern day product. Timber Casement windows were designed for the ground and first floor, and Timber Vertical Sliding Spring Sash windows to the second floor. These were chosen from our Conservation range and tailor-made to replicate the original frame margins and Ovolo profiles. It’s always an honour to work on a historic project like this, it’s what our products are designed for.”

A traditional hotel located in an iconic location.A traditional hotel, in the heart of St Pauls, one of London's most iconic locations.Nestled in the heart of London, Lost Property Hotel stands as a unique retreat near St. Paul’s Cathedral, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the art of eccentric living. With 145 rooms exquisitely designed with a modern flair, alongside a restaurant, bar, and coffee house, Lost Property promises a distinctive experience for travel enthusiasts seeking a memorable escape. The hotel’s central location offers convenient access to London’s iconic landmarks, including the Tate Modern, London Bridge, and Tower Bridge.Our team supplied bespoke riser doors strategically placed within the corridors. These doors serve a dual purpose – facilitating access to essential utility spaces while seamlessly blending into the overall design. The riser doors were carefully selected for their fire-resistant properties, ensuring compliance with safety standards without compromising on the hotel’s artistic vision.The key innovation lies in the wallpapering of the riser doors. The doors were expertly covered with wallpaper matching the surrounding area, effectively concealing their utilitarian function within the artistic tapestry of the hotel. This meticulous integration ensures that the riser doors become an inconspicuous part of the corridor, maintaining the immersive atmosphere Lost Property Hotel strives to create.

Introducing the ultimate solution for a safer and healthier workplace - R-Tek Manufacturing's modular PVC safety floor!Our safety floor is specifically designed to reduce the risk of slips, trips, and falls, ensuring that your employees can work confidently and without worry. Made from high-quality PVC material, our safety floor is extremely durable and resistant to wear and tear, making it an excellent long-term investment for any business.Not only does our safety floor provide excellent slip resistance, but it's also incredibly easy to clean and maintain. With its hygienic surface, our safety floor is perfect for environments that require high levels of cleanliness, such as hospitals, laboratories, and food processing plants.Installing our safety floor is quick and easy, with minimal disruption. With its modular design, you can easily replace damaged tiles without having to replace the entire floor.We offer a combination of colours to differentiate between areas such as walkways, racking areas or wheeled traffic zones, however we can also print your health and safety messages on our award-winning R-Tile range.The R-Tile offers a range of health and safety advantages:•Anti Slip Protection•Industry-Standard Certifications•CE Accredited•Fire Retardant•Chemical Resistance•Noise & Dust Reduction•ESD / Anti Static•REACH Regulated •A+ BREEM Standard•Sustainable & Recyclable 

ChallengeThe project, at Winston Court in North Walsham, is organised by Benjamin’s Building Company, part of The Benjamin Foundation. Benjamin’s Building Company is a social enterprise that works to create homes, training and employment opportunities for vulnerable people. The ambitious venture will see the development of four, self-contained accommodation units. Seeking help in this task, The Benjamin Foundation turned to CRASH for assistance in locating suppliers and materials.SolutionKnauf Insulation donated 24 rolls of 150mm Loft Roll insulation, 48 rolls of 140mm Rafter Roll 40 and 72 rolls of 110mm FrameTherm® 32 for the project. These glass mineral wool insulation products are extremely easy to handle and install, being lightweight and easily cut to size, benefiting the large project.BenefitsBy its nature, Loft Roll is non- combustible and classified as Euroclass A1 to BS EN ISO 13501-1, a crucial requirement to any public building. Additionally, Loft Roll insulation has been manufactured with ECOSE® Technology which delivers superior environmental performance, as the binder technology is up to 70 per cent less energy intensive than traditional binders. The technology has been developed for Knauf Insulation’s glass and rock mineral wool products, enhancing their environmental credentials without affecting the thermal, acoustic or fire performance. Insulation products made with ECOSE® Technology contain no dye or artificial colours – the colour is completely natural.

Designed by Fife Council Property Services, the newbuilding constructed at Auchmuty High School inGlenrothes, Scotland, sees the new development replacethe old high school with better learning facilities andadvanced learning equipment.Allgood provided Fife Council with a complete accesscontrol and ironmongery solution, which makes the majorityof the school keyless.Allgood Trio created an advanced access control package,containing proximity readers and access control handlesets, that provide traceable audit throughout the buildingand in addition to the ability to control access to variousareas. The package also included software which allowsthe deletion of a card if it is lost or stolen, providing a betteralternative to the expensive process of replacing lost keys.Allgood Trio also supplied and installed the automatic doorset solution, which satisfied Fife Council’s requirement forthe doors to automatically drive open and remain open inthe event of the fire alarm being activated, providing smokeventilation through the main central core area of the school.The solution also allowed staff to control the main entrancedoors and pupil entrances during specific times. (i.e.granting pupils access during school; start, finish and breaktimes and being locked outside these time periods).The whole package provided by Allgood Trio was deliveredon time and within the clients budget, including theinstallation of both access control and automatic doorsetsby Allgood Trio engineers.

Located in the East Midlands, Mountsorrel Quarry supplies the construction industry with large volumes of essential materials, which are used for construction projects throughout the UK.Due to an industrial fire which left a screen house beyond repair, a complete rebuild was required which included the design, supply and installation of safe, compliant access solutions.RequirementWright Engineering Group required four floors of open mesh flooring, handrail, stanchions and treads to re-build an industrial building at Mountsorrel Quarry that burnt down in November 2022, for the site to be back to full working capacity.SolutionLionweld Kennedy Group designed, manufactured and installed four floors of steel and GRP access solutions to the Mountsorrel site, enabling the building to be rebuilt safely. LK 20mm ball proof Safegrid flooring was required due to the height of the building and permanent access needed under each floor.Customer FeedbackLionweld Kennedy Group were by far the standout choice of all of the suppliers we contacted. From the beginning theservice was second-to-none, all items arrived on their project critical specified delivery dates, and the quality of the products were of a very high standard.Lionweld Kennedy Group remain a preferred supplier within the Wright Engineering Group due to the high quality of products and the excellent customer service always received.Luke Fagan, Construction Manager, Wright Engineering Group

The ChallengeLocated in the city of Nancy, the Centre Prouvé offers a flexible conference space complete with a 3000 m² exhibition hall, two auditoriums, thirteen meeting rooms and a panoramic reception area.With glass playing an integral role in the building design, the architect required a proven smoke control solution that would not distort the aesthetics of the development while adhering to safety regulations. Additionally, due to the high footfall of visitors, the chosen solution would have to be maintenance-free.As a leading fire-glass specialist, Pyroguard was approached by the architect Marc Barani of Atelier Barani to offer a suitable solution.The SolutionTo meet these requirements Pyroguard recommended Smokeguard – a permanent, maintenance-free glazing solution that acts as a smoke barrier, keeping low-level toxic fumes at bay for up to half an hour to give visitors maximum time to exit the building safely.Thanks to its perfect transparency, Smokeguard also met the aesthetic requirements with the 8 mm thick tempered monolithic glass offering 87 percent light transmission, to provide the perfect transparent protective barrier with minimal visual impact.As a result, over 100 m² of Smokeguard was installed in the atrium, escalators, and lift areas utilising its patented fastening system to mount the system to the ceiling areas.Click here for further information on Smokeguard or for further advice and support please contact us.

Trafalgar Place, London designed by De Rijke Marsh Morgan Architects (dRMM) is a Stirling-award shortlisted mixed-use project designed as part of the Elephant and Castle regeneration. It offers 235 homes set within a reinvigorated area, designed to replace 1960’s era mega blocks. Each new home comes with its own garden, balcony or roof terrace and has been designed to maximise light and space.A rich combination of MBH PLC’s Freshfield Lane clamp-fired Danehill Yellow, Anthracite, Selected Lights, Selected Darks and First Quality Multi bricks were used to create a stunning vertical gradient that helps to both blend in with the established vernacular while creating a modern identity befitting such an expansive redesign of the area. FabSpeed blended all the brick special products which had to be meticulously coordinated and blended to achieve the gradient colour change on the main facade.Additional care was given to the landscape, with pre-existing trees integrated into the project and a variety of open spaces created to allow residents to find solace amongst natural environments despite the site’s proximity to the wider city.Trafalgar Place won the ‘Best New Place to Live’ and the ‘Mayor’s Award for Planning Excellence’ at London Planning Awards, in 2016 and Best Housing Design Award at the 2015 Brick Awards.