"flooring"

The Tytherington is a 4-star hotel and club situated nearby to Manchester airport. The hotel saw the refurbishment of its club and the development of 65 bedrooms, with a bar and tennis court, guests can use the spa, wellness centre, fitness centre, sauna, hot tub, and garden. The new investment sees refurbishment of club facilities including members bars, changing rooms, function rooms, and reception areas. With over 300 onsite car parking spaces, Capesthorne Hall is 7.3 miles from The Tytherington while Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens is 13 miles away.Cellecta’s ScreedBoard 28 was specified by HPW Architecture Ltd due to it being suitable for all floor types and is frequently viewed as the solution of choice for new build and refurbishment developments. With its interlocking edges for installation convenience, high density, and unique resilient layer it provides unrivalled acoustic performance.J M Scully was awarded this 2,000m² contract to construct this development and refurbishment in Macclesfield.

Bermondsey Spa is a transformation of a neglected corner of south London into one with well designed homes, streets, spaces, and places for the local community. Located in Southwark, close to Tower Bridge and Bermondsey Underground station. 2,000 new homes, 40% of which are affordable housing, have been created. 16 GP surgeries in two new health centres, a NHS dental practice, pharmacy, youth, and play facilities, 2.5 hectares of re-landscaped open space, bicycle parks, council offices and a One Stop Shop, shops, including a food retail store, and offices for the Southwark Primary Care Trust have been constructed.Cellecta’s YELOfon HD10+ was specified by Levitt Bernstein 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 light weight and is easy to handle and install.Hyde Group was awarded this 25,000m² contract to construct this development in one of the most vibrant places to live in London.

Orbis OS211 Glass Infill Top FixOrbis OS200 Vertical Bar Infill Side FixThe main NHS hospital for Blackpool and the Fylde Coast, Blackpool Victoria Hospital has undergone a £16.4 million upgrade to create a new main entrance and a multi-storey car park.The new entrance includes a pharmacy, retail units, café, main reception, waiting area and office accommodation. Featuring extensive curtain walling, the new main entrance has been designed to maximise natural light and provide a feeling of openness. The use of glass for the balustrades helped to enhance this design style throughout the main feature areas and voids, using Delta Balustrades’ Orbis system.Delta Balustrades also supplied the balustrades and handrails for the main and rear staircases in the new multi-storey car park. Delta Balustrades calculated the loadings for all areas of the hospital installation and specified multiple fixing details for the atrium to accommodate variations in floor levels and construction.

Located on the picturesque waterfront of West Kirby, Wirral, The Sail is home to eight luxury apartments on South Parade overlooking the River Dee estuary to Wales. The building itself has a striking geometric form with a unique glass façade, reminiscent of art deco coastal properties from the 1930s.The apartments occupy four storeys over one thousand square metres and are flooded with an abundance of natural light thanks to the floor to ceiling windows, which also emphasise a strong connection to the outdoors. Alumasc Water Management Solutions were asked to assist and supply a number of bespoke products including aluminium fascia, modular soffit and coping systems from Skyline.  “Skyline was specified for its quality and ability to provide bespoke designs and solutions,” says Ivan Colvil, Senior Skyline Technical Sales Manager. “Numerous profiles were needed due to the building’s unique shape, which presented a challenge. It took a great deal of technical support and working with the architect to fulfil the brief.

The 8,500m2 Biosciences building is clad in silver anodised ACM panels generally 1.3m high and up to 6.4m long that work together to wrap around the complex elevations. Each individual panel purpose-made and pre-curved at Ash & Lacy’s West Bromwich site, to fit around and match the windows on the building. The protruding raked capping details were also manufactured in the same material, in order to provide a fully cohesive design. Original concept architects, Llewelyn Davies Yeang, specified 3,500m2 Ash & Lacy Facade for the extensive new build, to give the building an innovative and hi-tech finish, reflecting the standards of the department itself.The design of the seven-storey building responds to the constraints of a steeply sloping site divided by a service road creating staggered floor levels, interesting external spaces and a flowing façade. The science block also features a sedum green roof fitted with solar panels for the heating of domestic water contributing to the very good BREEAM rating it has secured.

Bespoke Access Structure | Case StudyThis two-level access structure with staircases, cladding, edge protection handrailing and anti-slip grating flooring was designed by Dura Composites in conjunction with our client ENGIE Fabricom UK, who provide engineering and construction services to sectors including renewables, oil and gas, power, chemical and energy from waste.With the ability to supply both composite timber cladding for the containers and all the required GRP elements for the project, Orsted chose to work with Dura Composites. Although steel had previously been considered, the rising cost of steel versus GRP and its tendency to corrode in coastal environments made composite materials a far more durable and cost-effective option.The resulting access structure is safe, looks attractive and is non-conductive and non-corrosive. With a long design life and 25 year warranty, the GRP components are part of the latest d² range from Dura Composites which offer safer, stronger, faster and proven properties.

The scope of this ambitious project was to restore and transform an abandoned Neo-Gothic Cemetery Keeper’s Lodge with adjoining public facility into a luxurious mansion in just 12 months.  Works included demolishing the adjoining public facility to enable the construction of a new basement.The proposed new build construction would be a luxury ground floor extension which would run the footprint of the redundant public facility to offer a 4,000 square foot subterrain space with key features such as 13-meter swimming pool, 2 additional bedrooms, a tv games room and office space.Simon Gill Architect designed the ambitious project and was appointed as Project Manager.Delta Registered Installers 5 Star Basements were employed to undertake both dig out and installation of the structural waterproofing with Delta’s Technical Waterproofing Consultant, Paul Callaghan representing Delta. This approach at the design stage, allowed Paul to attend design team meetings and to ensure all criteria’s of BS8102:2009 were met.As aired on Grand Designs on 6th January 2021.

A house dating back to around 1910 was dismantled in the St. Johann district of Basel to make way for a new building on the narrow plot. The construction company was forced to allow car, bicycle and pedestrian traffic to continue and had to make do with a building site that was severely restricted.The ten staircase elements were precast in architectural concrete at the factory, treated with Schöck Tronsole® products and shipped to the site where a crane lowered them individually into their exact position in the stairwell through an opening on the top floor. All of which took place without any standard fastening the elements – each weighing two tons – at the sides or on supports. After all, the challenge was to minimise the transmission of impact sound.Installation was performed by the on-site construction manager in Davidsbodenstrasse. It did not take long to win foreman Paul Willig over to the product: "The self-adhesive technology of Tronsole® makes it quick to install, without the need for tools.” Depending on the construction workflow, the impact sound insulation can also be easily applied at the prefabricating plant.

Celebrating 600 years of history..."The Hylton Castle Project will transform the magnificent gatehouse into a community-based, heritage-led visitor attraction celebrating 600 years of history and sharing the stories of those who lived and worked at the castle from the 14th century until the present. With training for young people, volunteering opportunities, events, outreach, and education programmes, there is something for everyone to get involved in".Soundis were contracted to supply and install Absorb-R GypLine aw Acoustic Spray Plaster to the ceilings on the Ground and Second Floor within the main Activity/Exhibition Space along with the Cafe.Absorb-R GypLine aw Acoustic Spray Plaster was chosen due to its seamless finish providing amazing reductions in reverberation times whilst blending into the look of the whole ceiling which gave a sophisticated but modern look complementing the heritage behind Hylton Castle at the same time of revitalising the building into an attraction hotspot for not only the local community but also educating visitors from further afield about the history of Sunderland.

Like every other institute of learning, the University of Bristol has to provide world class educational facilities, but also find new revenue streams. One such area is the provision of commercial conference space. This of course brings an extra pressure in the quality of the space provided to fee paying delegates.The atmosphere of the large open atrium was dependent on controlling the level of reverberation, without compromising on the architectural finish.Working closely with the Main Contractors Site Team, Architect and Client, we were involved in the specification for the new Atrium Feature Wall, along with all complex detailing, including expansion joints, louvres and display cabinets.Working closely with Vinci Construction, to carry out the Absorb-R GypLine αw Acoustic Plaster treatment to the Atrium Feature Wall at the University.Soundis Absorb-R GypLine αw system was installed to give a very desirable natural white stippled effect, combined with a highly absorbent functional wall spanning the length and height of the building, rising a full 5 floors.

Pura® NFC by Trespa as connecting factor between two building volumesIn close cooperation with Guus Vedder (2•1 Architecten), architect Hendrik Jan van der Valk (Van der Valk Woudst ra) has designed a modern villa, consisting of two main volumes. The villa was for a private client and is located in a rural village in the Veluwe region. One volume is used as living/ dining room and kitchen, while the bedrooms, bathrooms, playroom and technical area are located in the other.The client had a number of explicit requirements for the design of the villa which is located on a large plot in a wooded area. In addition to various aesthetic aspects, the villa had to be sustainable and energy neutral. The facades, roofs and floors were therefore very well insulated and of airtight construction. All window frames have aluminium profiles with optimum insulation and have triple glazing. The whole house is equipped with domotics and all installations are powered by the solar panels that were fitted; there is therefore no need for a gas connection.

One of the most iconic buildings in central London.The building has been reborn hotel and residential complex for highflyers in the financial services sector. Woods Bagot’s scheme for 10 Trinity Square, nicknamed ‘the whirlpool’ after the glass canopy at its centre.10 Trinity Square was commissioned by the Port of London Authority in 1911 through an architectural competition won by Edwin Cooper. Completion of Cooper’s Beaux Arts design was delayed by the First World War (it was finished in 1922).Many of the original interior features were conserved while incorporating the servicing requirements of a modern hotel. As such, plaster ceilings, such as those situated in the south wing of the second floor, are being maintained and the original air vents may be used in the new HVAC strategy.For this development, Selo used the Una doors which are the solution for timber leaf risers. Una utilises a timber door leaf with a concealed metal frame. Made to suit custom sizes, provided as a flat-packed kit prepared for all ironmongery.

HLM, the architectural practice had a very high-end, designer lead project at Park Lane London, which required bespoke components mixed together with standard products forming a warrantied bathroom solution for the client. 15 types of different bespoke XPS shower trays were created for this project and used across the 460 rooms spread over 3 phases.240 bespoke XPS niches were installed and in 210 cases substructure sets were used to reach the required 100mm installation height thus allow for a straightforward replacement of old baths with showers without having to modify the existing pipework.In all bathrooms, wedi XPS building boards were used in 12.5mm thickness for walls and 10mm thickness for floors.RESULT: Thanks to the sub-contractor Milk Leisure, an Approved Partner of a leading manufacturer of XPS shower/bathroom systems, the client received a 100% waterproof bathroom with a 15 year manufacturer’s warranty on the whole installation. 

This stunning self build property delivered the dream home for our client. The vision of completely open plan areas, stunning vaulted ceiling spaces and stairwells made SIPs an obvious choice. The vaulted ceilings were formed with precision during the SIPs design stages and this complex roof them installed to exacting precision on site ensured the clients precise vision could be delivered.The specification of the 172mm SIPs panel ensured that U Values a low as 0.15 were achieved straight off the shelf which also delivered on the thermal, environmental and sustainability requirements requested by the client.This stunning property has endless features and is an aesthetic master piece, all of which was delivered through detailed design, engineering and installation by SIP Build UK as the appointed SIPs specialist.SIP Build UK took complete responsibility for the design, engineering and installation of the SIPs including all internal walls, floors and the huge amounts of additional structure in both glulam and steel to deliver this open plan, vaulted, stunning property.

Single storey extension with fixed rooflights and opening vent rooflightsThe ChallengeLocated on one of Cambridge's key arterial routes the homeowner wanted to improve the quality of the internal spaces in this early twentieth century townhouse, to help revitalise the property and give them a better family home.The solutionWorking with an innovative architect they proceeded to add an extensive single storey extension to the rear of the property as well as unique dormer extension to the second floor.We worked closely with them to create fixed rooflights for the single storey extension which added light and a feeling of greater space also we provided opening vent rooflights which as well as adding natural light also gave them natural ventilation.Whether you’re at planning or construction stage why not see how we could help you add natural light and space to your home project; you can call us on 01223 792244 or pop us an email via info@nextgenrooflights.co.uk outlining what help you need.

Bespoke twin goods lifts enhancing space and time in Holland and Barrett’s warehouse in Staffordshire, EnglandLödige Industries installs two reliable goods lifts to increase production efficiency in the warehouseHolland and Barrett’s pick, pack and dispatch warehouse in Burton upon Trent has multiple levels. Previously goods were transferred between levels with forklift trucks and pallet gates. However, the a huge spike in orders made the forklift trucks and pallet gates inefficient and impractical. In addition, the number of forklifts operating in a congested area were a cause for concern. To meet the growing demand, Lödige Industries installed two SHERPA goods lifts with multi-level and multi-directional stops, including one for a future mezzanine level yet to be installed, thus future proofing the solution. As a result, H&B has been able to support the increase in its online processes business growth by enabling a higher throughput in its warehouseby operating in an efficient warehouse. The health and wellness market leader benefits from the advantages of quick, safe and reliable SHERPA goods lifts to stock and distribute their goods when required.SHERPA goods lifts maximise storage space in the warehouseThe rising demand for Holland and Barrett’s products meant that the company needed to store and move more goods in the existing facility. The existing lifting processes via forklifts were no longer expandable. By installing twin SHERPA goods only lifts with free standing shafts, all three floors of the warehouse can now be accessed safely and efficiently. As the SHERPA can be installed into any building without any alterations such as pits, there was limited impact during construction.A potential third mezzanine level has already been taken into account and the highest level served has a lifting height of 9.05m. The lifts now enable fast transportation between all floors and open up the possibility of further storage space. Cabin size has been tailored to Holland & Barrett’s goods to ensure the most efficient transportation processes.Integrating with Holland and Barrett’s work routines to ensure uninterrupted processesThe warehouse is a fast-paced and hard-pressed working hive of activity. Avoiding any negative impact on throughput, delivery times and processes was therefore imperative. Lödige Industries team worked closely integrated with Holland and Barrett’s operations team and partners to adjust installation work to daily warehouse routines; the experienced team of engineers were able to adjust their installation to their production times. Therefore, the installation could productivelywas accomplished without impacting warehouse performance go ahead. Fast installation and delivery ensured continuous production and early gains for the customer. Despite the challenges of COVID-19 and its impact on supply chains, Lödige Industries completed the installation ahead of schedule.Enabling construction in an existing facility- a temporary scaffold meets special customer requirementsThe existing warehouse posed a few challenges in the installation of the new lifts. Many lifts require a temporary lifting beam during installation, to facilitate multiple lifting points. However, like many modern warehouses, the facility in Burton upon Trend did not have a lifting beam. As this was required for both lifts, Lödige Industries developed a concept for an extended load bearing beam, that was created and installed by one of Holland & Barrett’s partners in this project.SolutionIntegrating with Holland and Barrett’s daily routines ensured continuous production to address the rising demands and orders.The SHERPA goods lifts are transporting goods over four floors. This allows the customer to maximise its warehouse space and move their goods quicker and more efficiently.To facilitate multiple lifting points and transport unstable loads, Lödige Industries provided a temporary scaffold platform.

Accessible for every visitorThe landmark £78 million Darwin Centre is the most significant development at the Natural History Museum since it moved to South Kensington in 1881. With over four and a half million visitors passing through its doors every year, choosing the right door products was crucial if this popular tourist attraction was going to stand the test of time.dormakaba’s contribution to the projectdormakaba TS 92, TS 93, and ITS 96 cam-action door closers were specified due to their low opening forces in accordance with BS8300 and their aesthetical design, which is in keeping with the overall style of the Darwin Centre. The TS 92 and TS 93 cam-action closers have been installed with the electro-magnetic hold-open feature and have been designed to remain open, closing automatically if the fire alarm is triggered. Offering the illusion of an invisible closer, the ITS 96 is a concealed cam-action closer hidden within the door leaf and frame, complementing the overall modern and sleek design of the new centre.As part of the brief, a wall of glass was to surround the technology and displays within the Darwin Centre, only accessible by staff through glass doors. Due to the small diameter between the wall and the glass door, specialists in glass interior products, Harbrine, overcame this by using dormakaba’s EA pinch free patch fitting which allowed safe access with a clear view of the museum display.dormakaba BTS 75V and BTS 80 floor springs also feature at the redevelopment. These floor springs feature a hydraulically controlled closing cycle, adjustable closing speed and mechanical backcheck.Also installed is dormakaba’s ED 200 – an automatic swing door operator that offers an optimum solution for safety in high traffic areas. During an emergency, fire doors and exit doors must continue to open for people to exit, but close firmly to prevent the fire or smoke spreading. The ED 200 is particularly appropriate for internal fire door applications and has been successfully third party fire tested to EN 1634-1 on timber doors. Its unique package of safety, security and interfacing features means that when a fire alarm is actuated, or when the power is cut, the closer will revert from automatic to manual operation with a hydraulically dampened spring close action.

Cambridge Biomedical Campus. (CBC) created a vibrant and groundbreaking health care community at the forefront of science and medicine.Dortek’s brief was to supply and installation of doors to a very specific programme, across primarily 3 floors.Our Dortek doors were installed within the BRF rooms, laboratories, holding room, procedure rooms, CL3 labs, equipment store, changing rooms, and circulation routes. The type of doors we installed were GRP hinged and sliding in stainless steel frames, many with integrated privacy panels.SolutionThe particular project requirements that made our doors suitable was the durability, acoustic performance, non organic door quality of our SS frame which ensures suitability to this environment. The SS frame had previously been used at Francis Crick Institute also. We fulfilled the clients expectations by meeting the specification and programme, and working closely with planners to interface with other trades. There was some complexity about the project as most doors are very large for equipment access and some have acoustic requirements, also to include is there are a lot of doors in a concentrated area.

The ChallengeA former industrial area along the south bank of the Union Canal in Merchiston, Edinburgh required transformation with the expected outcome of becoming one of the places to live in the city centre. A housing development was to provide a stylish addition to the already thriving growing community.The development consists of 11 stylish, one, two and three-bedroom apartments. The apartments feature high quality engineered flooring, bespoke kitchens, designer bathrooms and fitted wardrobes, and each has a terrace or balcony enjoying open views over the canal.It was important that the building materials used were sympathetic to the local sandstone buildings.The SolutionThe original intention had been to use extruded bricks for the project, however, it was decided instead to use Forterra’s buff, stock thrown, Belgravia Gault Blend from its Ecostock range. A total of 55,000 bricks were used in the construction of Horne Terrace.The BenefitsBelgravia Gault Blend complemented beautifully the sandstone aesthetic of the buildings in the locality, while at the same time delivering great technical specification of low water absorption and low embodied carbon.

The Challenge Hunter Street, Chester, is a new development of 77 student residential flats set over six floors, with ancillary and communal facilities, landscaping and car park. Located just within Chester’s city walls, in a redevelopment area, the site is in a prominent position next to the ring road. It is also next to a former Odeon cinema constructed in the 1930s, which has recently been renovated and extended to become the city’s thriving new arts centre, Storyhouse. The Solution It was important that the student accommodation reflect its surrounding environment and so cues for its design were taken from Storyhouse. The brick selected for the project was County Multi Smooth, which is a red, smooth textured, high quality facing brick that complements the modern aesthetic of the copper rainscreen cladding and through coat render used alongside. Extruded brick detailing was included to create a playful relationship with the recessed brick detailing of Storyhouse. The Benefits The use of County Multi Smooth served to connect the structure with the existing masonry buildings adjacent to it, helping to ground it in its environment.

Knowle C of E Primary School in Solihull has undergone phase two of their major washroom refurbishment. Phase two of the refurbishment included additional washbasins, taps and final installations such as lighting and flooring. As one of the chosen washroom manufacturers in the final phase, Franke Water Systems provided:·        1 x SOLX1800T Miranit washtrough ·        3 x F3SV1001 self-closing tapsThe washtrough and taps were provided to complete the final phase of the project. Maintaining a high standard of hygiene is a key element to consider when specifying school washrooms. Franke’s composite washtroughs and basins are seamlessly moulded in Miranit, an advanced resin and granite composite with a gelcoat, providing a non-porous, robust and hygienic finish. Miranit is several times stronger than ceramic, highly impact-resistant and virtually shatter-proof, making it ideal for busy school washroom environments. Also provided were three F3 self-closing taps, the F3S range of taps combine functionality, robustness, and maintenance-friendly design which is ideal for highly frequented school washrooms.  

Perforated cladding panels like no other from Proteus Facades have helped to transform a defunct 1980s structure in the heart of London into a visually striking, contemporary commercial office space. Once described as unwelcoming and foreboding, York House in Kings Cross, which dates back to 1981, featured a complex brick façade, with a set back entrance and very small windows giving the building a stand-offish appearance as well as a poorly lit interior.Following a £13 million refurbishment, the building, purchased by The Office Group, which provides flexible workspaces in London, Leeds and Bristol, has been transformed into a bright, co-working space, suitable for London’s thriving and growing businesses.Designed by Architects dMFK, the 70,000sq. ft, eight storey redevelopment features both modern and traditional elements. An original Torigenus cast aluminium sculpture sits on the east side of the building, created by sculptor Geoffrey Clarke, whilst bold new additions include a double height entrance with offices above, as well as a set back roof extension and terrace on the 7th floor.

Whitethorn Village is an attractive residential scheme positioned adjacent to the centre of Naas. The contemporary development led by Cairn Homes PLC includes a mix of spacious family homes and two apartment buildings. These comfortable, sustainable residences offer the very best in terms of quality and energy efficiency.Developer Cairn Homes collaborated with Horizon Offsite to deliver the impressive 5-storey residential blocks in Whitethorn Village, benefiting from off-site fabrication, accuracy, and rapid completion within a tightly controlled cost plan.The apartments were constructed using an offsite fabricated light gauge steel (LGS) structural system. The external LGS wall panels and floor decking used in this system incorporated a number of Partel’s low carbon building envelope solutions. This included the advanced fire rated components EXOPERM MONO DURO 200 breather membrane and ECHOSEAL ALU FR airtight and windtight tape, the multi-purpose adhesive VERBOND, and also the phA Class Passive House Certified components IZOPERM PLUS vapour control layer and VARA SEAL smart airtight tape.

A Gloucestershire based independent care provider has recently completed a 46 bed extension on their care home for clients with dementia and nursing care requirements. Having worked with the contractor on a similar project, Astor Bannerman were recommended to the company to supply ceiling track hoists in an effort to future proof the needs of the home. With floor space at a premium, the company wanted to move away from the traditional style mobile hoists, which need to be stored away when not in use. Also, as using a ceiling hoist system normally only requires one carer to operate, this enables the company to adapt to the possible implications of Brexit on staffing levels.During the installation, we successfully added an XY (H-frame) hoist system into 3 assisted bathrooms and added 3m straight track OT200 hoists in 6 bedrooms allowing simple transfer in an out of bed.Fixings were also installed during the main build in the remaining 40 bedrooms, enabling the care provider to retrofit track and hoists as and when they require them at any point in the future.

Architect/Designer: BenedettiLocation: London Project OverviewFront of house refurbishment including developing bespoke signage and hardware to meet the client and architect’s requirements. ServiceFull hardware scheduling service. Bespoke signage & ironmongery. Project Details 3v worked alongside Benedetti architects to provide a full interior hardware package for the beautiful refurbishment of the British Academy of Film & Television Arts headquarters at 195 Piccadilly. This project included development of bespoke signage panels and hardware designed to complement the overall design aesthetic for the refurbishment of this Grade II listed building.The Expansion includes new top floor by raising & restoring two large Victorian rooflight structures & decorative plasterwork considered ‘lost’ for 40 years, from the original 1883 Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours Gallery, built in ‘opposition’ to the Royal Academy across the road.Facilities include: doubled capacity, two cinema theatres, banqueting hall, multipurpose event and exhibition spaces, members’ bars/restaurant/club, roof terraces, judging/meeting rooms and offices.

The Glass Yard is a prestigious mixed office and retail development in Chesterfield, on the site of what was the once the largest manufacturer of domestic glassware in the UK. It has been designed sustainably and ergonomically by developer Blue Deer Ltd. for an open plan, daylight filled environment. The client approached Tarmac’s representatives looking for a safe, practical, durable and visually distinctive finish for the main external walkways and first-floor balconies that would complement the modern design and sustainable ethos of the building. After providing advice and number of samples, the client chose TOPTINT Glow a unique, glow in the dark decorative concrete that uses light sensitive chippings to help illuminate areas such as footpaths, cycleways and pedestrian areas. The glowing aggregate provided a passive and energy efficient form of demarcation to help guide clients along the balconies and walkways at night-time and in low ambient light conditions. This fitted with the building’s sustainable design ethos. The gentle glow provided by the light emitting chippings also provided an ambience that was sure to be a talking point for customers and would help put the new development on the map.

A private landowner wanted to develop a large multi-purpose agricultural facility for both arable and potential livestock use at their farm in Leicestershire. Part of the requirement was external surfacing, which would need to be hard wearing and deliver long lasting durability in this demanding environment, including regular use by heavy agricultural vehicles. After discussions with the contractor, the solution proposed was Tarmac’s TOPFORCE fibre reinforced concrete with a combination of synthetic macro and micro fibres. TOPFORCE is a fibre reinforced, high performance concrete, that eliminates the need for some traditional reinforcement. Quicker and easier to place than traditional steel mesh reinforced concrete, TOPFORCE concrete offers excellent long-term durability and performance. This makes it ideal for heavy duty flooring or hardstanding applications. This solution would deliver a saving in both labour and material costs and avoid the budget impact of the rising cost of steel. As well as improving the durability off the finished concrete, the use of macro fibres would also improve sustainability significantly by reducing embodied carbon compared to traditional steel reinforcement. 

The VELUX Daylight Visualizer enlightens a new-build school academyA new school building project was commissioned with a clear design vision—deliver an exceptional learning facility to best serve pupils and the community.The school design is a steel-framed superblock with a compacted floorplate and accommodating spaces spread over four floors. In the main building, classrooms benefit from daylight provided through vertical glazing. Larger communal spaces such as the main hall, internal corridors, a dining room, and drama studio can be found in the heart of the building. Daylight in these communal spaces is provided through the roof.  Activity spaces such as the sports hall, a gym and library required specific daylight levels to comply with the Department for Education (DfE) output specification requirements. Deep-plan, central locations also required a calculated daylight design, prompting Pozzoni Architects to invite VELUX Commercial to collaborate on the project and assist with the evaluation of daylight provision.To read more about this case study and how understanding daylight analysis simplifies complex design goals, visit our website.

Walsall Council is undertaking a major redevelopment plan to re-imagine parts of the town. Gallery Square, the home of the area’s brand new art gallery, is the first space to be updated under the plans. WoodBlocX Landscaping was commissioned by Acadis UK to supply the street furniture for this part of the project.Gallery Square is a large open space, the designers have used colour in the form of a series of large squares, of differing sizes, painted on the floor to create interest from the ground up. The design and layout of street furniture aims to provide plenty of space within the square for visitors to the gallery and the wider public to use, it also allows for adequate social distancing as and when required.For this project we took the proposed design and recreated it using our versatile modular system. Our team is able to take the technical detail from drawings and create full and detailed design proposals using our bespoke software. Once the plans were finalised, we supplied a series of large seating solutions that were installed by the contractors in March 2021.

The new HMRC regional hub at the Arena Central complex in Birmingham has provided over 240,000 sqft of grade A commercial space over its ground and 13 upper floors. The building features an external envelope of geometric glass and aluminium facades that create an iconic feature to this area of central Birmingham. Working closely with the façade contractor NACWL, specialist architectural metal fabricator Metalline have manufactured and supplied over 9000 m2 of aluminium Unity Rainscreen Panels from their recently extended facility in Cannock. Delivery which commenced in September was completed within 10 weeks. The specification also included over 5000 m2 of Ultima Insulated Spandrel panels along with soffits, column casings and transition panels. The detailed design of the building’s façade demanded a uniformity of colours which was achieved using a single ingot of J57S Up aluminium. The Ultima Insulated Spandrel Panels were finished in a black polyester powder coating. The individual Unity rainscreen panels were supplied in a two – tone specialist 1934 and 1953 Unatex silver anodised finish.

THE PROJECTAs part of it’s recent £100 million pound renovation, Roché Awnings were tasked with providing a shading solution which was in keeping with the hotels iconic features, whilst covering the width of their ground floor terrace. The terrace being the location for the hotel’s east smoking terrace, central loggia door entrance and private outdoor dining area.THE SOLUTIONThe challenge was to choose an awning which blended in with the style of the Edwardian building. Originally designed to incorporate the Markilux 730 drop arm awnings, we advised the hotel to choose the Markilux 3300 awnings due to it’s unique design. The awnings were mounted to the buildings stone facade and sit inconspicuously below the hotel’s balustrade. The helped the awning merge beautifully into the architecture of the building.Roché coupled Markilux 3300 full cassette patio awnings to achieve widths of close to 10 and 13 metres, along with a smaller width of close to 3 metres. The awning was installed green fabric, traffic white cassette and uniform awning projection. The positioning provided full protection for the open terrace area.

It was high on the developer’s agenda to incorporate shower and changing facilities in the brand new Grade A office space in Dublin.Completed in 2020, the Grade A office development, just 20 minutes away from Dublin city centre, features the highest specifications achievable in an office setting. It was high on the developer’s agenda to incorporate shower and changing facilities in the office space. Fit-for-purpose and high spec toilet and shower cubicles that would guarantee user privacy were installed. Not stopping there, changing room solutions including lockers and benches were also specified for the waterside office development.Unity Full Height toilet cubicles were specified in all male, female and accessible toilets across the 6 floors. Complementing the toilet cubicles, Unity Full Height was also chosen for the shower areas. With full height doors, pilasters and partitions this popular cubicle range offers increased privacy for users; ideal for public showers. Our metal framed non-plumbed washroom panelling system, Frameduct, was specified for the WCs and urinals. Read the full case study to find out more.

Altro brings all things bright and beautiful to children’s hospiceIssueHaven House Children’s Hospice in Woodford Green, Essex, provides the highest level of respite and palliative care to families and young people from birth to 19 years old who have life-limiting or life-threatening conditions.In the hospice children benefit from a range of play activities, as well as day and overnight stays. They also have access to music therapy, aquatic physiotherapy, physiotherapy and therapeutic yoga.ApproachHaven House interiors needed to be hard-wearing and functional, because a lot of areas are clinical spaces. Altro was recommended by Great Ormond Street Hospital.A visit to Altro’s offices at Letchworth proved to be inspiration for the design scheme at Haven House.SolutionThe brightest and boldest Altro floor and wall products have been used, with rainbow staircases and cleverly colour zoned areas making the facility strikingly beautiful inside and out.A few months after the refurbishment, the feedback from children, staff and visitors to their new colourful environment at Haven House has been overwhelming.

The design briefTo sensitively transform two former workshops buildings into a modern, light and airy family home, in this hidden location.ChallengeTo achieve beautiful design, to sustain health and well-being through superior craftsmanship, quality materials and intelligent use of glass.Solution3m x 2m internal walk on glass floor with glass beams seamlessly appearing out from the walls, elegantly modern design introducing light and the illusion of space. 19mm thick monolithic glass balustrade sections connect each room achieving a spacious, sharp and minimal look. The multi-panel skylight engineered to fit existing timber trusses creates a sense of large expanse and allows the flow of daylight to pass down to the lower levels, lightening up the beautiful design within.Whether you’re at planning or construction stage why not see how we could help you add natural light and space to your home project; you can call us on 01223 792244 or pop us an email via info@nextgenrooflights.co.uk outlining what help you need.

Timber Window Project: Restoring Charm to a Matlock CottageDiscover how Gowercroft successfully transformed Robert Jones's quaint stone cottage in Matlock with high-quality timber windows and doors.A Challenging Derbyshire CottageWhen Robert Jones approached Gowercroft for his cottage renovation in Matlock, they faced an intriguing challenge. His 200-square-meter, 5-bedroom cottage nestled into a Derbyshire hillside, offering stunning countryside views. The property had three stories at the front but only one at the rear, with the ground floor patio situated atop an integral garage.Robert aimed to breathe new life into the neglected property by undertaking a comprehensive refit, including new electrics, bathrooms, stairs, carpets, roofing, garage, and replacement doors and windows. He sought a renovation that honoured the local aesthetics, using durable traditional materials like English slate for the roof and energy-efficient timber windows and patio doors to maximise the scenic vistas.Meeting the ChallengeAccess to the property posed a considerable challenge due to its location on a sharp bend with a steep incline at the end of a winding country road. The installation of oversized windows and doors seemed daunting, but Gowercroft embraced the challenges with creative solutions.Gowercroft crafted and installed eleven Hardwick flush casement windows, a Peveril lift and slide patio door, two floor-to-ceiling fixed light windows, an Accoya® front door, and a timber Melbourne stable door at the side. The lift and slide patio doors and glazed screens had to feature 6mm-thick glass to ensure structural integrity, making each unit weigh approximately 200 kilograms.Given the size and weight of the units, manual handling was impractical. Gowercroft enlisted a specialist contractor with a telehandler to navigate the steep drive and hoist the units into place. Additional personnel joined the effort."The job demanded teamwork, meticulous planning, and coordination with the ongoing building work as we removed the old windows and adjusted the existing openings," Robert explained.Exceeding ExpectationsThroughout the installation, unforeseen challenges arose, including the need to cut away patio paving slabs blocking the original patio doors and repositioning the door frame to accommodate the new Accoya® front door. Gowercroft even provided window boards for the new openings.Robert praised the Gowercroft team for their exceptional dedication and problem-solving attitude, stating, "I can't speak highly enough of the Gowercroft team. They tackled every obstacle and challenge with a 'can-do' spirit."Gowercroft's commitment to quality craftsmanship and their ability to navigate complex installations allowed Robert Jones to transform his Matlock cottage into a charming and energy-efficient retreat that perfectly complements its picturesque surroundings.

A moment of Introspection Before the Big RevealMorrow+Lorraine had a bold vision for the contemporary 123 Hub. The lobby was no different. Home to Google and ENI Trading, prestige and performance was imperative throughout the building.123 Hub has a modern and neutral design scheme, using stone, wood and natural fabrics, which the luxury Entrance Matting needed to complement and protect. It tirelessly maintains its classic look while enduring and cleaning the shoes of users of the 200,000 ft2 office space. INTRAsystems has worked with Morrow+Lorraine on a wide range of projects so the practice knew the design potential of our product range.With its clean lines, INTRAflex XT was the preferred choice for their chevron scheme. It offers flexible configurations for a wide range of designs, as well as quality performance and proven longevity.Fusing Form and Function for Architectural ImpactINTRAflex XT has a heavy-duty aluminium frame available in a standard silver finish, anodised bronze or black. Each option comes with a 10-year warranty so will stand the test of time. Made from 100% recycled aluminium and fully recyclable, it also represents a sustainable option, as verified by EPD.For added practicality, INTRAflex XT sections are removable to help maintenance and cleaning. There’s no need to wait for service visits or specialist tools. On-site teams can lift each section to remove any debris or excess moisture, minimising disruption.As one of our most specified products, you can find it used extensively in prestigious locations.Elite Performance, Smart Aesthetics, Luxury Entrance MattingMorrow+Lorraine opted for INTRAlux® Elite Grey 606 fibre inserts to add a subtle colour and textural change, while complementing the stone floor beyond and enhancing the overall neutral monochrome palette.The simple appearance belies the advanced features. The INTRAlux® Elite fibre has a mix of coarse and smooth fibres made from 100% Econyl regenerated nylon, offering excellent scraping and sound absorption. It has excellent UV-resistance, fire resistance, and slip rating.Precise and practical installationFrom the chevron design Morrow+Lorraine supplied, we created an intricate plan for the install team; clearly labelled each component and supplied in oversized lengths to allow for tolerances and anomalies on site.We also provided spares just in case, as the install team had to work around some immovable features.The flush, glass revolving doors would have been particularly tricky for a lesser product. With our detailed plans, an innovative product and skilled installers, the effect is unassuming perfection. Explore Tiling and Flooring did an incredible job.