"flooring"

Berry Systems supplied and installed perimeter and ramp barriers for new multi-storey car park incorporating very thin  concrete decks.A revised design for the new Heathrow Terminal 2 multi-storey car park called for a floor depth of just 150mm comprising a 60mm deep slab with 90mm structural topping. However, and there’s always a however, a traditional rigid safety barrier post needs fixing with 4 bolts each to a depth of 170mm. Obviously these couldn’t be used,so contractors Laing O’Rourke turned to barrier specialists Berry Systems to provide a solution and appropriate perimeter barriers for the 6 decks and the spiral entrance and exit ramps.Over many years Berry Systems have developed a range of flexible spring steel barriers that ‘give’ on impact. This not only reduces damage to both the barrier and an impacting vehicle but crucially reduces the pull out loading on the anchorage by 50% or more. This in turn allows post fixing to be achieved by using only a single bolt embedded to a depth of merely 110mm - a depth achievable into the new slabs.The specification was completed with Berry Beam safety rails to provide a more attractive appearance than the well known “Armco” style. Post extensions provided mountings for a pedestrian handrail at 1100mm high with integral anti-climb mesh where needed.The thin slabs were developed by Bison Manufacturing and are the thinnest precast concrete planks produced to date in the UK. They led to many benefits which considerably reduced the construction programme. It also allowed 6 floors in the usual height of 5, increasing capacity to 1340 spaces. But perimeter protection would have proved problematical without the expertise of Berry Systems.

Kingston College recently embarked on a £10 million refurbishment project, which included the remodelling of the main building’s entrance and a new ground-floor student centre. The landscaping of the approach to the main building was a crucial part of the project. Contractors Lenmark Construction were managing the refurb, however they encountered a major issue when the original supplier was only able to offer a 10-week lead time for the specified paving product. The project required 900sqm of hard landscaping, and the original supplier was now unable to fulfil this order within the specifications. This risked stalling the entire project, so Lenmark needed a reliable and immediate supply of high-quality paving products. Lenmark contacted Brett for help. As a leading independent manufacturer of concrete paving, Brett was able to offer Invicta pavers, featuring AggTech surface technology. Our Invicta pavers were fully stocked and immediately available. Our AggTech process uses unique natural aggregates on the surface of each paving block to create a stunning durable finish perfectly replicating natural stone. The paving was delivered in four complementary colours - Pearl, Moonstone, Onyx, and Citrine - in a 300x200 paving layout design plan. Brett Landscaping’s project designer worked closely with the architect to produce design take-offs, offering regular on-site visits to ensure that the installation was running smoothly, and that the Invicta product satisfied the brief. Thanks to Brett’s immediate supply the project was able to proceed without any delays. The result was a successful refurbishment project that included a remodelled main entrance, a new ground-floor student centre, and a beautiful approach to the main building

Overview The Theatre Royal, Drury Lane is located in the City of Westminster and is the oldest theatre in London still in use. There have been four different theatres built on the site, the first of which opened its doors in 1663. The current theatre was designed by Benjamin Dean Wyatt and opened in its current format in 1812. The theatre, now owned and operated by Andrew Lloyd Webber's company LW Theatres, has just gone through an astonishing £60 million refurbishment, designed by architects Haworth Tompkins, which includes new bars, dressing rooms and even a new 16 person lift to grant easy access to upper levels! Installation Over the past 2 years, C.A.T. has worked closely with the client, the architects and the flooring contractors - to supply a range of solid brass flooring profiles and stair nosings throughout this iconic building. Hand-finished here in the UK, these Brass Nosings adorn the staircases within the theatre's auditorium and many of the original cantilevered staircases in the foyers and Royal Boxes. Alongside Loughton Contracts, C.A.T conducted multiple site visits, to measure and template the hundreds of steps across the theatre. These measurements were conveyed to our fabrication team, who worked extremely hard to bring the nosing’s to life and replicate the detail of the treads, to ensure the overall finish was first class. Last but by no means least, as you walk into the newly refurbished theatre foyer, you will be greeted by the stunning bespoke carpet by Alarwool, expertly finished by Loughton Contracts, with our 16mm solid brass rods, hand-turned by our factory and hand finished in antique brass, to match the nosings and trims throughout. Be sure to look up too, the atrium roof is simply stunning!

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

Fearnach House on The Black Isle in the Highlands of Scotland was designed by architect Iain Macbeath, and built by the firm’s sister company, Thermopassive.The house is a 190m² new house, built to the architect’s “Thermopassive” specification with larch timber and render walls and profiled metal roofing. It has PV solar panels with a “diverter” heating up water and charging an electric car. High levels of thermal capacity storage in an insulated concrete floor slab (so it stays warm and flattens out rapid temperature fluctuations) and very good air tightness.There are no cold bridges (which is more important than you would think) and also a heat recovery ventilation system for fresh air.This project uses FAKRO top hung and pivot window preSelect MAX and L-shaped combination windows.When asked, why Fakro roof windows were specified for the project, Ian McBeath told us, “We have been specifying and buying Fakro roof lights for many years. They are well-priced compared with competitive products and of excellent quality and design.The positioning of the handles at the bottom of the window is also a major factor. It makes it much easier to operate a window with the handles at the bottom rather than the top of the window, which is often out of reach of many shorter and disabled people. The windows are also very well insulated and airtight.”The windows have helped achieve an extremely energy-efficient home as well as flooding the upper floor rooms with an abundance of natural light. And the client loves the internal and external finishes.Based in the North of Scotland, Thermopassive Ltd is an architect-owned company which specialises in highly insulated buildings (better than passive house standard) constructed in Structural Insulated Panels (SIPS).

The ChallengeInstalled within the reception hall and circulation areas of the two towers, Pyroguard Protect, which was chosen by fire protection specialists, Pyrometal, has helped architect Ateliers Jean Nouvel achieve his ambitious vision, without compromising on safety.Following the successful testing, Pyroguard Protect was installed throughout DUO-1 and DUO-2.In the reception hall, Pyroguard Protect EI120 was fitted inside PYROTEK steel profiles to form full height glass partitions and in the circulation areas on each floor, around 690 square metres of E30 was used inside double-leaf doors with EI60 glass partitions.The same was also used in the corridor doors as a means of compartmentation, which connects various areas to the stairs and lift landings.The SolutionTours Duo rises on a former industrial site on the edge of the River Seine in the Paris Rive Gauche district and at 180 m, DUO-1 is set to be the third tallest building in the capital.The pair of towers, DUO-1 and DUO-2, which lean to form an impressive asymmetrical ‘V’, will house offices, retail spaces, restaurants, a hotel and a top floor panoramic bar.In the design of the mixed-use scheme, Ateliers Jean Nouvel was tasked to create high performing, aesthetically striking buildings and as such, decided to take a bioclimatic approach to reduce energy use and make the most of the outdoor weather conditions.Giving the best protection for people and property, Pyroguard Protect provides integrity and heat insulation for 30 to 180 minutes (EI classification).The solution also provides 1B1 impact classification without the need for additional counterpanes, high performing acoustic properties and peace of mind throughout the lifespan of the product due to its UV stability.

IntroductionAshcombe School was in desperate need of a washroom refurbishment as it was falling into disrepair and was fuelling student behaviour issues. They also required more cubicles, and there was often an unbalanced demand between the boys and the girls.Our SolutionFirstly, Brookhouse needed to understand Ashcombe's pains and create a design to eliminate these as best as possible. It quickly became apparent that they needed a unisex school washroom open to the corridor to create extra space and to mitigate behaviour issues. Many existing toilets were not working, so they needed this completed as soon as possible. The half-term break was identified as a week to carry out the demolition works. The location of the school washroom refurbishment was on the primary school corridor. With the project being carried out during term time, it was essential to ensure this was carefully managed to ensure safeguarding and to cause as little disturbance as possible.We created a design concept with full height cubicles to reduce the issues they were having and specified a trough and automatic infrared taps and soap dispensers to stop the students from filling up the basins and making them overflow. The solid grade laminate school washroom system has a floor & ceiling track to achieve privacy and create an extremely robust washroom that will last for years to come. All fittings are also bolted through to ensure no damage to the laminate.We ProvidedWashroom Design & ConsultancySpace Planning/3D VisualsProject ManagementFull height Solid Grade Laminate School Washroom CubiclesFull Height Solid Grade Laminate IPSButton Flush CisternsDecoration & Hygiene Wall CladdingSolid Surface TroughVinyl FlooringAutomatic Taps and Soap DispensersFull replacement of plumbing worksElectrics and LightingVentilationDDA toilet

Commissioned by 30 member states of the European Union, the European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) monitors the climate and weather. In light of climate change, the data it collects using complex satellite systems is becoming increasingly important. The growth of the organization associated with this is reflected in the continuous expansion of its HQ in Darmstadt. The construction of a new six-floor office building also includes a canteen for all employees working at the location. This canteen gets its unmistakable face from a lamella-style suspended ceiling made of golden PC-ALU 6010 aluminum mesh from GKD – GEBR. KUFFERATH AG.Modern weather forecasts today have little in common with traditional country weather lore. Satellites make it possible to monitor the climate and weather on a global scale. The data collected is then used to keep authorities, citizens and companies up-to-date with the latest developments at all times. In Europe, EUMETSAT monitors the atmosphere, oceans and earth’s surface around the clock and then transmits the data to the participating EU member states. Established in 1986, the organization opened its headquarters in Darmstadt in 1991. However, ever increasing requirements and staff numbers meant that the operation quickly outgrew its original space. A six-floor office building with 160 workplaces represents the final phase of a whole range of extensions and new buildings. Following a construction period of just 18 months, around 100 employees were able to move out of their temporary container offices and into the new building costing around €10 million, while a further 60 new employees are set to follow. The shape of the new building, designed by Pielok Marquardt Architects from Offenbach, is a mirror image of an existing building. Beside excellent energy efficiency and multifunctionality, the new building is characterized by transparency and modern design. Four office levels offer versatile space with transparent partition walls for any desired arrangement – whether open space, combination offices or classic cubicles.Functional division – exceptional aestheticsThe ground level comprises two separate functional units that can be accessed via separate entrances. Beside a control center for a new satellite program, this is also home to the campus kitchen with connected canteen for the workforce at the location, which has now grown to include around 600 employees. The kitchen has been designed to provide 410 meals a day and the canteen offers 250 seats. The mullion-transom facade also ensures that the room is flooded with light. Carefully chosen furnishings divide its area into various acoustically optimized zones. The white of the desks and chairs is picked up by strips in the glossy flooring and the cladding of the food counter, pillars and supports. In the central zone, bright red benches with high, sound-absorbing backrests offer a vibrant contrast. The color scheme is rounded off by the warm brown of the stone floor and the wooden acoustic cladding. However, the striking element in the room is the suspended ceiling, made from 400 square meters of golden aluminum mesh. Its 120 elements with a blade-type design mimic the appearance of sunshine in the canteen with their discreet shimmer. LED lighting strips further underline this impression. At the same time, the mesh conceals the ventilation technology with incoming air outlets on the element frames. As a result, the accessibility of the woven ceiling elements was among the key requirements for GKD. The planners opted for a particularly open mesh design in the form of the PC-ALU 6010 mesh with various warp and weft wire thicknesses. The function and aesthetics of the ceiling mesh thereby provide the desired high level of comfort in the canteen, while also making the room a unique feast for the eyes.

Radmat has supplied a comprehensive range of systems for 20 Fenchurch Street, AKA the ‘Walkie Talkie’, in the City of London. Radmat’s PermaQuik, ParaFlex and EshaUniversal roofing membranes were installed during the creation of the Sky Garden – one of the highest green roofs in the world, offering breathtaking views over the capital.Designed by world-renowned architect Rafael Vinoly and jointly developed by Land Securities and Canary Wharf Group, 20 Fenchurch Street is constructed with impressive sustainability credentials to achieve an ‘Excellent’ BREEAM rating. The 38 storey tower incorporates a vibrant garden spanning the top three floors which is open to the public and by appointment. Described as the terraced ‘hanging gardens of modern Babylon’, the fifth-of-an-acre garden utilises drought resistant Mediterranean and South African flowers, shrubs and ferns, in soil up to a metre deep. The gardens also provide Rosemary, Thyme and other herbs to three restaurants within the building.Now London’s highest public park, the publicly accessible roof gardens include a viewing area, terrace, café, bar and restaurant. For such a unique space, it was crucial that the roofing system chosen delivered thermal performance, watertightness and long-term reliability for the client – specialisms of Radmat products. Land Securities and Canary Wharf Group awarded the work to Radmat on the basis of the company’s established reputation and expertise in all types of flat roofing.For the pitched green roofs, sectioned into a series of individual 45° slopes, EshaUniversal waterproofing was specified as part of a Radmat roofing system that included insulation and drainage layer. Made from recycled materials and 100% recyclable – EshaUniversal proved ideal to meet the demands at this sustainable development.Offering an efficient and safe installation, EshaUniversal is ideal for green roofs. More durable than elastomeric roofing, the system is also weather proof, UV stable and offers flexibility, durability and high puncture resistance making it ideal for challenging applications.Project Manager, Paul Nelson, said: “We have installed waterproofing systems over the concrete decks from ground up to second floor level then levels 34, 35, 36, 37 and 38. This required our installations teams to make repeated visits to site, using both internal and external hoists for access; with work completed in March 2014.”“The inverted roof arrangement means the waterproofing is covered by insulation and either paving, ballast or planted medium,” he added. “Then there is also the sky garden at an angle of 45 degrees planted with trees and shrubs, which will be accessible to clients using the restaurant there.”For public-access terracing across levels 34-38 – as well as a series of applications on the Ground Floor, second floor and the concrete staircase – over 1,200m² of Radmat PermaQuik PQ6100 was applied. With an independently verified durability ‘for the lifetime of the building’ and a market leading guarantee, the liquid-applied PQ6100 waterproofing system delivers exceptional performance befitting of this unique build.On level 37, where visitors can enjoy 360° views of the capital, additional waterproofing was required following the installation of a glass internal cladding system. With the glass already in place and challenged by high winds and low temperatures, the fast curing, cold applied ParaFlex waterproofing system was specified. Suitable for application at temperatures below zero reliable sealing can even be achieved at -5°C. Utilising collaborative working practices and a responsive and interactive design process, Radmat have created a stunning waterproofing and green roof application of the highest standard. Radmat’s proven range of waterproofing solutions met all the client’s demands and has ensured that visitors from all over the world can enjoy this stunning venue for many years to come.

The Skyper building complex in Frankfurt am Main boasts a very special architecture. The three-part complex – consisting of the 153.8-metre Skyper high-rise with 39 floors, the neoclassical Skyper Villa from 1915 and the Skyper Carrée – offers a total of 53,900 m2 of office space for numerous companies and banks. When the existing single access entry systems were dismantled in the summer of 2020 as part of renovation work on the foyer, the owner opted for a new, modern solution that would blend in perfectly with the architecture of the skyscraper. Every day, large numbers of people go the foyer to get to their workplace. Numerous visitors also pass through this area. This called for a solution combining functionality, safety and an appealing design.

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

F. Ball products have been used to install floorcoverings, as part of a life-changing residential refurbishment. Contractors began by priming the concrete subfloor using Stopgap P131 general purpose primer, before applying Stopgap Fast-Track 30 floor smoothing underlayment to level the rooms. Styccobond F73 PLUS heavy duty adhesive provided the high bond strength needed to secure Tarkett Primo Safe-t vinyl sheet and LVT. Plywood sheets were firmly affixed to the existing floorboard subfloor, and Stopgap 500 Micro was used to smooth over screwheads and the joints between panels. Contractors then installed LVT, again using Styccobond F73 PLUS adhesive.

Chichester Free School opened in 2013, holding 1,280 students aged 4–19. Located in Chichester, West Sussex, the school was damaged in a fire in 2009; this led to demolition and a part refurbishment of the former Carmelite convent. It includes a 600m² sports hall, a 250m² hall, dedicated music and performance spaces, multi-use games facilities and external landscaping.Cellecta YELOfon HD10+ was specified by Hunters South Architects for this development for its acclaimed resilient layer, which isolates floating screed from the structural concrete floor. YELOfon HD10+ has superior impact sound-deadening properties, is lightweight and is easy to handle and install.This 6,500m² development was awarded to Farrans to restore the school at £26.5 million.

Highfields is a development of 30 contemporary family homes on the edge of Cubert on the North Cornwall coast with far reaching countryside views. Located just a short distance from the famous Holywell Bay and stunning coastal walks and with a vibrant village community just outside the front door, Highfields is the perfect mix of coast and country.Cellecta’s YELOfon HD10+ was specified by CAD Architects due to its unrivalled acoustic performance in isolating a floating screed from a structural concrete floor. This product is lightweight making it easy to install. YELOfon HD10+ is also delivered in 18kg rolls to ensure it’s easy to handle.Legacy Properties was awarded this 2,000m² contract for this Robust Detail Registered Site in Cornwall.

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

The Ascent Aluminium Roof Access Walkway was specified to meet the clients requirement to create a level anti-slip route across the roof for both visitors and maintenance personnel. The Ascent Aluminium walkway is laid to the lead roof covering using non-penetrative support feet. The Ascent aluminium walkway is designed in accordance with BS EN 516:2006 Prefabricated accessories for roofing, BS 4592, Industrial Type Flooring and stair treads, BS EN ISO 14122-3 Stairs, stepladders and Guardrail, BS 7976-2:2002+A1:2013 Pendulum slip resistance. And is manufactured under ISO 9001 and CE 1090 factory production control procedures, creating a walkway that is CE / UKCA compliant.

A trio of Stannah Maxilift motor room-less passenger lifts has delivered residential access for all at King Edward VII Estate, West Sussex. Completed in 1906, this Grade II* listed former sanatorium has been renovated and converted into 162 sumptuous apartments, duplexes and communal facilities set within eight acres of Registered Gardens in the South Downs National Park, with full resident access to the 165-acre estate. Original features have been restored, conserved and further enhanced with über-modern updates to include the three Stannah 8-person, motor room-less (MRLi) Maxilifts supplementing stair access over three and five floors.

Global engineering consultancy, WSP, recently relocated 850 Manchester-based staff to new offices situated in the prestigious, No8 First Street building. The refurbished office space focuses on the wellbeing of employees, creating relaxing spaces where they can unwind and spend time with colleagues. Contributing to this positive lifestyle environment, Style installed two DORMA Varitrans glass moveable walls, effectively separating breakout areas and creating either two smaller rooms or one large open plan space. A further eight DORMA Variflex, fully automatic moveable walls were installed across two other floors, allowing WSP to create three larger meeting rooms or seven smaller ones.

Forming part of one of the largest and most ambitious regeneration projects in Europe, Mustard Wharf is a new residential Build to Rent development overlooking the Leeds-Liverpool Canal.The £55 Million scheme features 3 buildings housing 247 stunning 1, 2 and 3-bedroom boutique rental apartments plus communal roof terraces, gym, working spaces, and clubhouses.An impressive central atrium was created using Senior’s thermally enhanced SF52 curtain walling with secure access via SPW501 doors. The apartments feature floor to ceiling energy efficient PURe® windows whilst PURe® SLIDE doors lead to the balcony providing a light and comfortable environment. 

Scarborough Sports Village includes Prospec Marathon Classic range throughout, with cantilevered and double island bench seating in matching solid grade laminate. Prospec Marathon wet lockers, which include an aluminium carcass for wet areas, are a mixture of 1, 2, 3, and 4 tiers, and feature our new £1 coin return lock. Other products included within our installation would be our Marathon Classic fully framed cubicles, postformed solid grade laminate vanity units and grooming shelves, and floor to ceiling IPS (duct panel systems). This project also features our Disabled Access lockers which comply with Sport England recommendations.

To make the space work for the acoustic and aesthetic requirements, Ryder specified Komfort’s frameless partitioning systems.Komfort’s single and double glazed partitioning systems with 25mm deflection were specified by Ryder in all the meeting rooms on multiple floors. Komfort’s manufacturing team MIG welded together each of the 90-degree corners to create a unique and bespoke design for this project. This helped install speed and resulted in a seamless and high-end appearance by ensuring no separation once glazed.In an aluminium frame, our partitioning creates the appearance of frameless glass with our patented bubble joint. Our systems are designed to balance aesthetics, elegance and durability in any working environment and offer market-leading performance.

Regupol studwork isolating strips helped prevent flanking sound between suites at the new Hard Days Night hotel in Liverpool.The ChallengeWhen a suitable site was finally found for Hard Days Night, the eagerly anticipated Beatles themed hotel in Liverpool, an ambitious two-year development plan was put in place to convert the historic listed building into a prestigious four star hotel.Extensive alterations to the internal area of the building created 110 guest bedrooms, which included two exclusive Lennon and McCartney suites, bars, restaurants and function rooms as well as a wedding chapel.Designed to create a unique environment with a high quality feel, it was essential that Hard Days Night lived up to the expectations of the many visitors it would welcome. Part of this meant ensuring that bedrooms were adequately soundproofed, to ensure guests were not disturbed.As with many refurbishment projects, the floor construction was timber, which left Hornport Construction, the main contractors on the project, tasked with finding a compatible acoustic treatment that would help prevent sound transfer between bedrooms.The SolutionAlthough internal wall isolation was the specified acoustic treatment, Hornport Construction was able to make the final purchasing decision as to which products would be used. After consultation with CMS Acoustic Solutions, Regupol studwork isolating strips were identified as the most cost effective solution to deliver the required acoustic performance.Manufactured from recycled polyurethane (PUR) foam, Regupol studwork isolating strips are supplied at a standard thickness of 6mm, and widths to suit specific development requirements. Sitting beneath all types of timber partitions, the studwork strips reduce structure borne noise by absorbing sound and de-coupling the connection between floor and wall constructions.Resistant to ageing and deformation, Regupol studwork isolating strips offer long-term performance and will not collapse under high point loads.Available exclusively in the UK through CMS Acoustic Solutions, Regupol studwork isolating strips are supplied with comprehensive installation guidelines, making it simple for contractors to install independently on site. Easily laid, the Regupol material is bonded straight to the subfloor, with the partition erected directly on top.The ResultAt the Hard Days Night Hotel, Regupol studwork isolating strips were used to isolate the party walls separating the corridors and bedrooms. Designed specifically for use with timber, Regupol studwork isolating strips offered the ideal solution to isolate a party wall sitting on an existing timber floor.Gerry Abraham, site manager, Hornport Construction, concludes: “The Hard Days Night is a four star hotel, so high acoustic standards were imperative. We initially looked at timber sole plates with pre-fitted isolating strips, but this was quite an expensive route. We consulted CMS Acoustics who were able to provide a cost effective and high performing alternative with the Regupol studwork isolating strip – which was just as quick and easy to use.”

A hotel in the heart of London’s Mayfair has used Gripsure decking to enhance two of its most luxurious suites.The Mayfair Townhouse is a stunning Georgian building in one of the capital’s most prestigious locations. When plans were put in place to install decked areas outside the hotel’s Garden Suite and its fifth floor Loft Suite, the look had to be in keeping with the style and status of the property. Guest safety was a priority and the product had to meet key requirements.Gripsure fitted the brief and the AA five-star hotel ordered 52 square metres of our Bamboo non-slip decking boards to create two terraced areas for guests to enjoy.The first is outside the Mayfair Townhouse’s open-plan and elegant Garden Suite. Gripsure’s sustainable, FSC-approved Bamboo decking boards work perfectly in the landscaped garden area, allowing guests to enjoy a coffee or breakfast outside while they take in the sights and sounds of London’s West End.The second terrace is on the fifth floor, outside the Loft Suite, one of the hotel’s ‘signature suites’. Here, guests – who travel from all over the world to stay here – can relax as they watch the sunset over the city.“We’re very pleased with Gripsure’s decking,” said Federico Ciampi, General Manager of the Mayfair Townhouse. “When you look at most other decking products, it can look a bit industrial. The Bamboo looks very urban chic in its style and it’s great from a health and safety point of view. It’s also been very easy to keep clean. We have been very impressed with it.”Having a garden area in a central London location is one of The Mayfair Townhouse Hotel’s key features.“In the summer, guests have been enjoying drinks out there on the terrace and in the morning, they have coffee or breakfast. It’s great,” says Federico. “The terrace on the fifth floor works very well, too. We’ve even hosted a couple of small events up there.”During the daytime, people can enjoy views over nearby Park Lane and Shepherd Market. The hotel prides itself on its thoughtfully curated guestrooms and suites, all with a ‘dandy’ feel. Federico says Gripsure’s Bamboo decking works alongside the look and themes of the building.“I think the fact that the decking merges so well with the style of the property is one of the things we’re most pleased with,” he said. “The Georgian style décor and colour really blends well with the look of the bamboo. That’s what has been so good to see. You can’t really find anything else like it around.”Federico added that the project went smoothly because Gripsure were so easy to work with. “Everyone has been very helpful throughout the process,” he said.

In this project, Hush Acoustics were tasked with a project in Douglas, the capital of the Isle of Man, to provide a solution for a beautiful mid terraced property recently converted into 4x spacious apartments over four floors.With the apartments located very close to a road, the issues became apparent after spending some time inside, with road traffic noise as well as public background noise clearly heard.Key to resolving the issues was to ensure appropriate acoustic measures were carried out when converting this existing property into apartments, and that the party walls and/or ceilings met the required standards for conversion under the Building Regulations, Approved Document E.Working with Andrew Bentley, the architect and Kevin Cretney of Kinrade Construction, a solution incorporating the following was provided:HD1044 ACOUSTIC BASEMENT SYSTEMThis system has been created with residential properties in mind and is made up of a combination of materials that offer excellent sound reduction within the specified area.The basement system is made up of Hush Slab 100 which is tightly packed within the joists, Hush Deep Resilient Bars, which are fixed horizontally to the underneath of the joists and Hush Multi Panel which is fixed to the underside of the bars. 15mm of Fireline Plasterboard is then used to over board the Multi Panel.HD1041 ACOUSTIC WALL LINING SYSTEMThis system has been thoroughly tested to exceed Building Regulations and our competitor’s wall lining products. It is made up of Hush Multi Panel, the 15mm Fireline which is then installed over, ensuring joints are staggered. The perimeters are sealed using Hush Isolation Tape, as well as our Acoustic Sealant. These boards are then fixed to the Deep Resilient Bars and Hush Slab 25 is fitted in between. The Bars are then fixed horizontally to the wall.The benefits of this system are its high standards of airborne sound reduction, can reduce both flanking and direct sound transmission and creates a minimum loss of space.HD1038 HUSH ACOUSTIC FLOOR SYSTEM MF28This floor system is a highly rated performer and has again been thoroughly tested within areas that require exceptional acoustic control. Made up of Hush Panel 28 which is laid over the chipboard deck and sealed using Hush Seal 20. The Hush MF Ceiling System is then installed to the underside of the joists, to the back of the plasterboard lining. Hush Slab 100 is then installed tightly within the ceiling void. Two layers of plasterboard is then installed to the underside of the MF system and all perimeters sealed with the Hush Acoustic Sealant.Outstanding resultsTests carried out on completion of the acoustic treatment showed immediate results, which completely exceeded the acoustic requirements for conversion within the Building Regulations and also surpassed New Build standards.Chartered Architect, Andrew Bentley, said, "Thank you for all your help and support. I will be happy to use your products again in future."

Lomax + Wood were selected, from the UK’s finest timber window specialists, to design and produce a range of premium quality oak windows and doors for the Standard Groups first UK hotel. The building, a local landmark was previously the Camden Town Annexe with a brutalist seventies style, now reimagined as the “new cultural crossroads of London”.Lomax + Wood were selected, from the UK’s finest timber window specialists, to design and produce a range of premium quality oak windows and doors for the Standard Groups first UK hotel. The building, a local landmark was previously the Camden Town Annexe with a brutalist seventies style, now reimagined as the “new cultural crossroads of London”.Made-to-order oak windows and doors to the ground floor and eighth.15 Box sash windows with bespoke under panels.8 Curved on Plan fixed casements.34 Fixed casements.17 Single doorsets.10 Sliding doorsets.3 Double doorsets.1 Bifold doorset3 Casements with bespoke under panels.Specialist ancillary joineryEuropean oak timber specified with OSMO 420 clear UV oil finish externally and internally.Bespoke sections machined to accommodate additional thickness of specialist glass units.Glass was a key factor in the design process, specialist 13.5mm laminated outer pane/12mm cavity and 11.5mm inner pane (37mm overall) was required to meet the acoustic requirements of the project, provide solar control and give as neutral an appearance as possible. Specific glass marks required.Bespoke Curved on Plan units with curved glass sourced from a European specialist.Black ceramic coating to hide air conditioning units behind on specific frames.The overall requirement was for a ‘handmade look’, with internal and external linings added to the ground floor windows and a dummy peg detail on the corners. All the ironmongery was bespoke with some handles for the ground floor reception and bar areas by Forms & Surfaces, sourced from U.S.A. Door cylinders were also bespoke as an additional length was required to accommodate the unusual frame thickness.Design required to adapt stable door details to accommodate panic bolt hardware for garden area.The bell boy entrance door was a particularly unusual detail for Lomax + Wood with a bespoke aluminium cover with circular cut outs, manufactured to cover the timber door behind.Overall the project was challenging but Lomax + Wood specialise in producing high performance, made-to-order timer windows and doors to meet our clients specification and aesthetic requirements. It is important to note that the oil finish does require high maintenance and will not be viable in all situations.In addition to timber windows and doors we also provide aluminium composite products which are on display, with our traditional range at our head offices in Essex.

Internally and externally waterproofing the below-ground developments of the extended Christian Dior store on New Bond Street, with Newton 403 HydroBond, Newton 107F and Newton System 500.New Bond Street has been one of the most prestigious retail streets in London since it’s 18th Century beginnings, and in 2011 was named as the second most expensive retail street in Europe after the Champs-Élysées in Paris. The Christian Dior name has also been synonymous with haute couture and luxury retail since its own inception in 1947.This project required both the internal and external waterproofing of the extended basement area of Christian Dior’s flagship London store. A significant extension of the existing floor space on this stretch of famous London road, the extensive basement area will be used as stock rooms, changing rooms, and staff and shop floor areas. It was therefore a crucial requirement to achieve a completely dry internal space.The property line construction between two existing buildings meant that there was a requirement for waterproofing both new and existing structural elements, including pile caps, underpinning, a new reinforced concrete slab, existing foundations, and also existing vaulted areas at the front of the building which extend below New Bond Street.Because a completely dry internal environment was required, (defined as Grade 3 by the BS 8102:2009 Code of Practice for The Protection of Below Ground Structures From Water From The Ground) the proposal put forward by design specialists G05, in consultation with Newton, was a combination of Type A and Type C waterproofing systems. Due to the fact that the build was between the flank walls of two existing structures, the Type A system comprised of a combination of the hydrophilic, fully-bonded Newton 403 Hydrobond membrane pre-applied below the new concrete slab, and was linked to the cementitious, flexible Newton 107F membrane, which was applied to the internal faces of the walls and the prepared internal areas of the vaults.Following the application of the Type A system, a Newton System 500 Cavity Drain membrane system (Type C) was applied to the internal wall and floor areas by Newton Specialist Basement Contractor Advanced Preservations Ltd, who also guaranteed the work. The system included perimeter drainage using Newton Basedrain, and two Newton Titan-Pro pumping systems. The under-pavement vaults were lined internally with the Newton 500 system.Not only was continuity achieved with the waterproofing systems across numerous below-ground building mediums and scenarios, but the waterproofing system also conformed to the recommendations of BS 8102:2009 for combined waterproofing protection, where even the slightest form of water ingress is unacceptable.The internal areas were also successful in achieving an environmental Grade 3 with regard to their degree of water tightness, meaning that they will be suitably fit for purpose and use by both Christian Dior’s staff and customers.

With a height of up to 110 m, the impressive Elbphilharmonie rises up on around 1,700 reinforced concrete piles. The architects from Herzog & de Meuron have placed a curved glass facade made up of more than 1,000 differently curved window elements on the brick Kaispeicher A, a former warehouse for cocoa, tobacco and tea. Their shape is reminiscent of giant horseshoes and tuning forks and creates unique mirroring effects. The concavely curved roof evokes impressive wave crowns with shimmering sequins.The heart of the Elbphilharmonie is the legendary concert hall, which literally floats at a height of 50 meters – decoupled from the rest of the building for sound insulation reasons. Its acoustics, for which the Japanese Yasuhisa Toyota, one of the world’s most renowned acousticians, is responsible, are overwhelming: the “White Skin”, which owes its name to the around 10,000 gypsum fiber panels on the walls and ceilings, and a reflector in the middle of the vaulted ceiling for optimal listening pleasure in each of the 2,100 seats. Functionally and aesthetically reliable tilesIn addition to two other concert halls, the building is home to 45 apartments, the freely accessible plaza at a height of 37 meters with a 360° panorama over the city and a very special hotel. The “The Westin Hamburg” extends in the eastern part of the building from the 6th. floor to the end floor on the 20th floor. In the 244 exclusive rooms and suites, discerning guests will encounter Villeroy&Boch tiles: mosaics from the PRO ARCHITECTURA series are integrated into the design concept by Tassilo Bost, bost group berlin. The calm, puristic interior design plays with the themes of sand, air and water and combines a linear design with a flowing design language. The pure white small formats of just 2.5 x 2.5 cm with a matt surface give the designer space for individual bathroom designs. The minimalist ceramic tiles underline the exquisite room atmosphere in a reserved manner and without pushing themselves into the foreground.“The Westin Hamburg” also includes a 1,300 m² fitness and wellness area. In addition to training options, saunas, steam baths, two fresh air loggias with a view of the Elbe and the harbor, treatment and relaxation rooms and a lounge, the Elb Spa offers the longest indoor hotel pool in Hamburg at 20 m. The swimming pool was also designed with PRO ARCHITECTURA. Villeroy&Boch Tiles has been a proven and reliable partner for planners and architects in swimming pool construction for many years and, in addition to modular tile series, offers them all the additional molded parts for a functionally high-quality and at the same time aesthetically sophisticated swimming pool. PRO ARCHITECTURA is also used in the staff rooms for the approximately 160 employees, who look after the well-being of hotel guests from all over the world at “The Westin Hamburg”.

For their first international location of leading American workplace and hospitality providers Convene, situated at London’s 22 Bishopsgate, Radii’s high-end banded partitioning and doors were deployed in an ‘organised non-conformity’ design across meeting spaces on the fourth floor.Single glazed Linear 30 (41dB Rw) and double glazed Parallel 50 (45dB Rw) partitions were used alongside single glazed doors, all installed with randomised black feature banding combined with both reeded and frosted manifestations in differing orientations to create an eye-catching effect.The fit out for Convene — designed to offer nearby businesses an inspirational space to connect and collaborate — won in the Innovation category at the 2023 British Council for Offices Awards.

One Wood Wharf designed by Herzog & de Meuron and standing 205m tall, this building was designed to be the landmark structure within the expansion of Canary Wharf. The bottom 2 floors of this 58 storey tower are clad with Jordans Whitbed Portland stone. Albion Stone at our modern Portland factory fabricated almost 1000 bespoke curved radial pieces to form the façade to the main entrances. Each of these pieces of stone which are curved both internally and externally to tight tolerances align exactly with the soffits which hang in excess of 1 metre from the structure. These four quadrants to the building form the main entrance and showcase the beauty of natural local Portland stone, its heritage and the beauty of the material integrated into a modern design.

ASF were approached to repair, renovate, refurbish and where necessary remake and replace the ironwork elements of a grade 2 listed stair baluster at the Hannover Buildings, Manchester. Initially a complete baluster rail was brought into the ASF pattern shop and used as a template to make a complete new pattern for the balusters that needed fully replacing. Following a thorough survey of the staircase, totalling 16 flights in 2 blocks over a number of floors, component repairs were also completed so that we could carry out modular replacements where possible, thus retaining as much of the original stair baluster as possible. All replacement parts, including complete baluster castings, were made from 100% recycled cast iron

The General Medical Council protects patients and improves medical eduction and practice in the UK by setting and upholding standards for students and doctors.GEC Anderson were employed to supply and install new worktops within its HQ building, located on London’s Euston Road. The project was undertaken by Carmelcrest who asked GEC Anderson to provide the new 5m worktop within the Pantry Kitchen. Access to the room was fairly restricted and, as it was on one of the upper floors of the tower, it was necessary to supply it in two sections. A clamp-joint was used to provide the near seamless and hygienic join. Two sinks were included at one end of the worktop whilst the other end provides the clear, plain, work surface required within the busy kitchen space.

Angel Central is a popular shopping destination in Islington, London. Famous for its beautiful Angel Wing sculpture that is situated at the entrance. Artform were invited to provide a selection of street furniture elements that would complement each other and the new improvements. The Strata Beam Bench and Seat has subtly faceted concrete legs that create an interesting play between light and shadow, the timber slats match the flooring chosen for the bridge.The Ecomix Litter Bin continues the theme of angles and light with a grey body and white top. The Box Litter Bin was also chosen for an uncovered area, the timber front panel coordinated with the seating. The street furniture package was picked to deliver sophisticated design and a continuity with the new landscaping and architecture. 

Modular buildings are becoming a more popular solution as they demonstrate cost savings, shorter construction time and sustainability benefits. Go Modular Technologies (UK) Ltd manufactured ten flats constructed by nine large modules on three levels over the concrete commercial ground floor for this project in Poole. We were able to offer an affordable A2 fire rated solution to finish the building envelope which resulted in the facade being completed in Hardie® Architectural Panel. The planning approval was originally for render and buff brick so we were able to provide a similar look with our Smooth Sand texture which was chosen in three of our core colours to give this coastal location a modern and contemporary look.

Unity Place was designed as the anchor project in the Swindon Kimmerfields development. Aiming to achieve a rating of BREEAM “Excellent”, minimise waste during construction, and run efficiently throughout its lifespan, the building is a sustainable commitment to Swindon that provided the 950 staff of Zurich Insurance with 100,000ft2 of office space.Kawneer’s AA®190 TB Severe Duty Entrance Doors were selected for use on the ground floor to meet the needs of the heavy footfall of Unity Place – the solution is an all-purpose door for use in high-traffic areas and automatic entrances.Kawneer’s AA®110 Curtain Wall System on the façade, was chosen for its high thermal and weather performance, perfect for a project that required efficiency and sustainability at every phase.

Project:  Refurbishment and restoration of 6 flights of concrete stairs and landings at Pennybank Chambers, London     Client: Emrys Architects, DDC LTDMaterials used:  MicroConcrete coating in Grey colour and Satin finishThe Living Concrete team were commissioned by Emrys to refurbish and restore an old concrete staircase. This was followed by hand application of Microconcrete coating with Anti-slip agent around the cast iron step threads which were cast in brass finish.  MicroConcrete coating is especially suitable to this type of artisan restoration and it is ideal for tougher environments such as stairs, shop and office floors, bars, hotels and exteriors with no need for joins or breaks. It can be applied over existing materials which reduces the time needed for application and maintenance.

More than 40 bespoke column casings from Pendock were installed as part of a £10.5 million refurbishment programme at Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre (NEC) to improve the main piazza and facilities.Three different styles of casings were used on the project, the building’s square section structural columns concealed with either circular or extended circular pre-formed ply/MDF casings, finished durable high-pressure laminate (HPL), spanning the floor to ceiling height of around 4 metres.In addition, a series of narrow elliptical casings, finished in red HPL, were manufactured to provide visible signalling of each hall’s entrances. The entrance ‘fins’ also incorporate chrome numbers to identify individual halls.