"foamglas®"

Fire Retardant aluminium cladding that looks like real timber. This system of real timber that wraps aluminium cladding has been around for 30 years; its not a new phenomenon, in some practices, it’s the norm.Exceptional Architecture with contrasting aluminium wood cladding against a striking white stucco facade. Incredible detailing and accurate installation has made this private residence an iconic statement. Real timber veneer over aluminium results in a contemporary timber cladding, its not an effect, its not plastic… its timber.Aluminium cladding that looks like real timber.Set over three floors and a basement, beautiful landscaped surrounds and many balcony terraces make this dwelling the envy of other property owners. The cladding by Technowood ® has been used to good effect for the wall cladding, soffit board arrangement and also the fascias. This system has many options for start and stop beads with alternatives for reveals and corner detail. The design of these projects is only limited by the designer.Pergola design and Brise Soleilby Technowood®As Technowood have been manufacturing since the 1980’s they are well versed in many different profiles and systems in aluminium covered in real wood. Pergolas that span with a clear run up to 12.5 metres, louvres and Brise Soleil that match. We can create a complete system in timber that looks the same, made at the same time by the same hands… the design can also incorporate powder coated or anodized aluminium elements; supplied at the same time. These are also made in the same manufacturing process.Cladding illumination Up lighting, down lighting or washing warm white illumination across the facade of cladding looks beautiful. Further, this offers a welcome from the building during the darker hours, makes your home more inviting, it also looks stylish. It’s a simple effect to achieve and doesn’t cost a lot in comparison to other illuminated elements of the project.Technowood aluminium timber claddingThe simple system is an inclusive platform of cladding. It starts with a simple L shape bracket, a long length of supporting section T shape (like a timber batten); the cladding directly fixes to it. Think rain screen, when you are designing and you won’t go far wrong. Technowood has been here for 30 years and it’s here to stay. Certified FR A2, FSC and certified for Environmental Product Declaration, its also warranted for 20 years.

The Vantage EMF project was pioneered over a year ago in the boardroom of our partner, The Expanded Metal Company in nearby Hartlepool. Managing Director, Phil Astley discussed the principle and BTS Facades & Fabrications put it into practice.We both deemed the idea as that unique that we engaged an intellectual property firm who achieved the patent pending statusThe system utilises the tried and tested Vantage SF technology. The frame is fabricated and the expanded mesh is cut to size on our Streibig Saw. The mesh showcased here is the Athens although, it also available in Bilbao and Madrid.Vantage® EMF systems were tested earlier this year at the VINCI Technology Centre UK. The mesh is fitted to the frame and then powder coated both sides.The bespoke vantage SF rail with pre positioned hooks and anti rattle gasket is fitted to the wall and then the Vantage EMF panels are hooked into placeOur Vantage CS coping competes the scene here to stunning visual effect. We inserted LED lights in the perimeter of the frames to automatically light up at dusk to compound the effect.

Hard landscaping designed by Stride Treglown, who were keen on creating a modern contemporary feel. The School of Management’s new building is located at Claverton Down Campus.Xflo Plaza permeable paving creates a soft crisp look perfect for the aesthetic of the school along with the added benefits of durability to weather well and even improve with age. Over 3,200m2 of Plaza Lakrids, Birkes, Salt and Pepper in sizes 170/255x170x80 and 200x100x80 were delivered to site.Xflo permeable paving solutions is a highly effective, sustainable method of dealing with storm water control. Our Xflo Permeable Paving Solutions® are designed to mimic the natural movement of storm water and replace conventional storm water drainage systems.Professor Steve Brammer, Dean of the School of Management, said: “It’s extremely exciting to be moving into this wonderful new facility. I can’t wait to see this space foster dynamic and engaging new research, teaching and collaboration for many years to come.”‘The building integrates beautifully with the rest of the campus’ – Natasha BirkBSc International Management.

Non-Conductive, Anti-Slip Flooring and Walkways | Case StudyArena Events Group chose Dura Composites to supply the tiered structure stadium decking for the seating and platform areas, manufactured from our high quality and corrosion-resistant Glass Reinforced Polymer (GRP) Dura Slab 40 and 20 products which provided an anti-slip, fire-tested and load-tested alternative to the Buffalo® Board and traditional plywood used previously. Dura Composites’ ability to be able to meet a range of stringent test requirements including flare resistance tests and FEA analysis made us the ideal choice for this high profile project which not only allows for future changes to seating configurations, but also improves access to amenities on the concourse. The two types of Dura Slab used on this project are precision engineered GRP structural flooring systems that provide an incredible strength to weight ratio. High strength fibreglass composite is pultruded in one mass to produce a consistent quality flooring structure that is also non-corrosive, chemically resistant – and has an anti-slip walking surface.

When Whitmore High School in Barry, Wales were undergoing a massive £30.5M transformation that required over 6000m2 of new flooring they turned to international flooring specialist Gerflor for their specific project needs.The contractor for the project would specify a mix of Gerflor’s Taralay Impression Compact and Comfort flooring, together with their pedigree Taraflex® sports flooring, alongside their world renowned Tarasafe flooring products, together with their Mipolam ESD EL7 dissipative flooring.Steven Birchenough, Project Manager for the Main Contractor Morgan Sindall said, “Gerflor have a wide selection of flooring products to choose from. We needed a single supplier to provide us with the best-in-class flooring for many areas of the facility.”The installation of such prestigious and large flooring project would be the responsibility of CS Flooring, Cardiff. Anthony Mynett, Director, Carpet Services (Cardiff) Ltd commented,” This was a huge project for a new build school installation and the specification of Gerflor products for the vast amount of flooring needed was absolutely the right choice due to the high quality and performance they deliver every time.”

The Friedrichscarrée is a modern office and retail complex in the center of Stuttgart.Named after the former king of Württemberg, Friedrich I., it is characterised by its modern architecture and glass front. In addition to numerous companies, it now also hosts retail, catering businesses and event spaces. The good access to public transportation and the close proximity to restaurants and cultural institutions, make Friedrichscarrée an attractive location for businesses and visitors.As the general contractor for the expansion, Lindner carried out an extensive interior construction - ranging from drywall work to floor systems and wall cladding. In addition to high-quality floor coverings and also partly automated partition walls, the special construction of the hollow floor FLOOR and more® for the pedestal in the barista bar was a central element of the revitalisation. Lindner hallway ceilings LMD, heating and cooling ceilings and acoustic sails were also installed to optimise room acoustics.Furthermore, GiB mbH supported Lindner in upgrading the existing fire protection. The entire conversion was carried out during ongoing business, which required precisescheduling of noise-intensive work.

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.

Arwel House, a mid-twentieth-century brick-built house nestled in the Staffordshire countryside, has undergone a remarkable transformation. Originally constructed in the 1950s, the house had lost its charm over the years due to wear and unsightly alterations.Gowercroft products used:Peveril Lift and Slide DoorsMelbourne DoorsHardwick Casement WindowsAccoya®Initially considering demolition, the owners consulted architect Benjamin Machin, who proposed a more sustainable and cost-effective approach. Machin envisioned a retrofit and remodelling process that would highlight the house's character and unique details, re-establishing its connection with the surrounding gardens and agricultural landscape.The interior rooms were refurbished, and a new two-story extension was added to provide additional living and bathroom space. The outdated veranda and sunroom at the front of the property were removed, along with their degraded PVC-u windows and joinery.A striking garden room now graces the south-facing elevation, featuring an imposing white façade that interacts with the shadows cast by nearby trees. Gowercroft Joinery played a pivotal role in this transformation, manufacturing large timber-framed windows and sliding doors for the garden room. White timber-clad columns, reminiscent of the original veranda, complement the overall design.Two covered external spaces adjacent to the garden room serve as pleasant sitting areas, bridging the gap between indoors and outdoors. Gowercroft's oversized timber-framed lift and slide patio doors, French doorsets, and classic casement windows flood the house with natural light. Their slim profiles harmonise with the surrounding materials and colours, seamlessly blending the transition from brick and quarry tiles to stone paving outside.Throughout the project, one set of Peveril lift and slide doors, three Melbourne French doors, and 22 Hardwick casement windows were installed. Manufactured from sustainable Accoya® wood and equipped with energy-efficient double glazing, these windows and doors ensure a comfortable interior environment while requiring minimal maintenance.Thanks to Benjamin Machin's bold design, Arwel House has been revitalised into a contemporary, light-filled, and inviting family home. The transformation has garnered love and appreciation from the entire family, breathing new life into this once tired and unremarkable 1950s house.“Gowercroft’s windows and doors strike the right balance between low maintenance, energy efficiency and innovation and a heritage rooted in traditional joinery and craftsmanship. Their slim profiles have an elegant simplicity with carefully considered sightlines that complement the overall design.”Benjamin Machin

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.

Traditional Windows and Doors for a Historic Pub Renovation and Executive Housing DevelopmentThe Melbourne Arms, a cherished historic pub near Derby, underwent a remarkable transformation into a prestigious executive housing development. To preserve the charm and character of the old English pub, bespoke traditional windows and doors were essential.Restoring the Melbourne ArmsThe Melbourne Arms, a listed building with a rich 228-year history, had fallen into disrepair until Stanton Developments acquired it in 2018. They embarked on a comprehensive restoration of the pub and the creation of five additional houses on the site. Unsuitable extensions were removed, allowing the pub to be transformed into two linked detached four-bedroom family homes. The restoration honoured the original features, including the iconic stacked chimneys and distinctive inglenook fireplace."From the double-height skirting to the reinstated upstairs fireplace, we feel privileged and proud to have renovated this historically significant building," expressed Andy Turner, Stanton Developments.Creating an Enclave of HousesIn addition to the pub restoration, Stanton Developments built five new properties on the site, forming an enclave that harmoniously complemented the landmark pub. Each house was individually designed while respecting the aesthetics of the original structure and blending seamlessly within the local conservation area. The houses were named after former proprietors and notable figures associated with the property's history.Award-winning architect Matthew Montague designed the properties, adding his touch of excellence to Stanton Developments' vision.Gowercroft's ContributionGowercroft, known for their expertise in traditional windows and doors, was selected to provide the windows and doors for the Armsgate Development. The focus was on combining historic styling with modern performance, using the finest materials. Accoya® Windows from the Hardwick Range, featuring flush casement windows, and a selection of Accoya® doors from the Melbourne Range were chosen.To maintain individuality, each house had subtly different front door designs and colours, tailored to the specific property. Elaborate ironmongery and Accoya surrounds distinguished the larger properties, setting them apart.Attention to DetailPreserving the authenticity of the original window design was crucial for the plot that once housed the pub. Gowercroft crafted traditional Georgian bar windows, while also introducing unique triangular-shaped windows that added a touch of originality to the development.The combination of Stanton Developments' commitment to historic restoration and Gowercroft's expertise in traditional windows and doors resulted in a remarkable housing development that seamlessly merged the past with the present.

The multi-million pound refurbishment project saw the iconic building and its landscaped gardens restored to their former glory. Axter’s cold applied liquid waterproofing systems delivered a high quality solution to this challenging refurbishment.Systems in useStarcoat® QCStarcoat® PMMAKensington Roof Gardens is one of London’s best known venues, once famous for its flamingos and celebrity guests. The Grade II listed gardens were designed by landscape architect Ralph Hancock and date back to the 1930s. The venue features one of Central London’s most famous intensive living roofs and also includes an indoor restaurant, entertainment space and elevated terracing.ChallengesThe refurbishment of Kensington Roof Gardens was technically demanding. This was due to the complexity of the waterproofing details and space restricted installation locations as well as the specific waterproofing requirements.The refurbishment of the pond and waterways required a liquid waterproofing system that is proven to be safe for aquatic life, is UV stable and meets the aesthetic requirements. In addition, the waterproofing for the elevated terraces and walkways needed to be robust, rapid curing and appropriate for high traffic areas with a high quality, anti-slip finish.SolutionsAxter’s Technical Sales Team was able to provide BBA approved liquid waterproofing specifications for both areas. Axter ensured the highest quality waterproofing installation in all areas.Starcoat QC flame free single component PU resin waterproofing was used for the pond and waterways. The system cures fast in just 4-8 hours depending on the conditions and creates a tough, seamless, elastomeric membrane. This makes it ideal for complex refurbishment projects, such as Kensington Roof Gardens, where effective bridging of cracks and resistance to structural and thermal movement is essential. The robust, solvent free membrane also simplified the waterproofing of the site’s complex details and is resistant to chemicals and root penetration.The Starcoat PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) two component waterproofing, used on the walkways and terraces, is zero fall accredited, hard wearing and can withstand significant loading and mechanical stresses. Available in a choice of colours, traffic and anti-slip finishes, it also provides an excellent solution for complex detailing and challenging application areas.AcknowledgmentsThe refurbishment of the iconic Kensington Roof Gardens demonstrates the versatility of our Starcoat PU and PMMA liquid waterproofing systems. Working closely with our partners, we were able to provide a high-quality technical solution that benefits from a 25-year system guarantee.Phil Wilcox Moore, Managing Director at Axter

The Northern School of Art’s new Middlesborough campus is a development of regional importance, a major focal point for innovation and creativity in the Tees Valley.Located on a town centre site, the £14.5m iconic scheme comprises over 5,000m2 set over three floors, providing a range of studios for fine art, textiles, fashion, digital media, photography and 3D product design. Its concrete structure with exposed thermal mass, moderates the internal temperatures.Seven Architecture were responsible for the concept and master plan at the new school. Seven Director Simon Parker said, “To ensure a distinct and striking design for this gateway scheme we have introduced glazed terracotta panels to envelope the building which reference the long tradition of ceramics courses provided by the School. They also allow for glimpses into the building via long vertical windows which provide great levels of daylight within the art studios.“Once inside, internal finishes will provide the perfect backdrop for creativity; an exposed concrete frame and polished concrete flooring, coupled with splashes of colour throughout, will create a simple and robust yet flexible space for the students. The design strategy has been carefully established through extensive user consultation and the collaborative nature of this design has created a true flagship building.” Design, build and installation working hand-in-handBAM Construction were design lead and main contractor for the Project. Bill Mordue Interiors carried out the installation of the acoustic systems at the school. Jon Day of the firm, “We were very pleased to be involved with this prestigeous and innovative development. The work progressed smoothly with support from the Rockfon team as and when required. It offered Rockfon the opportunity to demonstrate how versatile their ranges are and how successfully they could control sound within this busy multifaceted setting.”In addition to the various studios and offices housed within the building, Rockfon acoustic systems really earn their place in the workshops, canteen, library, lecture rooms, busy thoroughfares and entrance hall where the pressures of controlling and containing sound in each space offer their own unique challenges. Challenges Rockfon is happy to meet, as independent research shows stress levels are reduced by 27% and focus is increased by 48% by improved acoustics.Performance, versatilty and beautyRockfon’s Jim Lundy, “Across all three floors throughout the school a mixture of Rockfon Universal Baffles, Rockfon® System Eclipse Islands™ and Chicago Metallic™ Infinity® Islands were installed in a variety of larger rectangular formats, sometimes alongside slimmer shapes, to work with the services already installed around and above them. In some instance, lighting and air conditioning are fixed within the panels, demonstrating their versatility. Rockfon Blanka® Activity B wall panels were also used within certain spaces to further control sound and help create the perfect environment for students to study, create, collaborate and socialise productively.”Ideal for thermal mass areas or where easy access to services is required, Rockfon® Universal™ Baffles offer an elegant and innovative acoustic solution. They have a smooth, easy clean fleece surface encased with corrosion resistant powder coated steel in two formats – two end-capped or four fully framed edge, and feature a multi-functional clip assembly which enables several installation and suspension possibilities. Delivering up to 77% light reflectance and diffusion, they are available in white or a selection of colours.The benefits of acoustic systems – seen and unseenThe high light reflectance offered across all our systems optimises natural light, aiding wellbeing and helping provide the best working conditions whilst minimising energy usage and costs. Vitally they all also demonstrate superior reaction to fire due in large part to the inert volcanic rock (stone wool) which forms their core. This stone wool also means Rockfon systems offer no sustenance to organisms which can lead to the growth of bacteria seen in some other ceiling systems.Rockfon Eclipse can be used as ceiling islands and as wall panels. Eclipse can be specified in a variety of shaped formats with a clean minimalistic A-edge and almost unlimited custom colour matching. Quick and easy to install, ceiling islands can be suspended by elegant wires, rods or fixed directly to the soffit.Seven Architecture Associate Architect Dean Murphy, “We felt Rockfon had a clean robust minimalistic design approach for both the suspended baffles & islands which clearly complemented the simplicity of our building design. Rockfon product ranges worked seamlessly alongside our design ideals for this building and worked well with our budget restraints.”The Rockfon Blanka range is available with semi-concealed and visible grid options for use as a suspended ceiling or as wall panels, offering a wide choice of alternatives for installation and usage. All embody Class A sound absorption (aw 1.00), 87% light reflection and >99% light diffusion and room to room sound Insulation 26dB-46dB. Blanka’s easy clean, anti-static surface prolongs product life and is non-directional, speeding up installation, saving time and money.Dr Martin Raby, The Northern School of Art’s Principal, “The increased visibility and accessibility of the School will generate benefits for the region and town, attracting more students and footfall. In turn, this will bring significant economic benefit for the area and help to redefine the image of the Tees Valley for inward investors, students, and visitors.”

Project DetailProject: Intercontinental – O2 – HotelLocation: London, UKProduct: TS.9000 range of architectural closers Project DescriptionThe purpose built new InterContinental® London – The O2 features a dedicated riverside conference centre with separate entrance away from the main hotel lobby allowing for complete privatisation of bespoke events for exclusive use hire. The Luxury hotel with a globally recognised brand.With 453 luxury bedroom suites, 5 Restaurants and Bars, 20 meeting rooms, and a complete fitness centre it was important that the door controls not only work well but were guaranteed for many years. Both the TS 9205 and the TS 11204 Cam Action door closers were used extensively on the O2 Hotel as the importance of frictionless customer care and ease of operation was paramount.A Door Closer is a small element of building design, which makes an enormous difference to its operation.You can check out their web site here or visit at 1 Waterview Drive, Greenwich Peninsula, London, the O2, SE10 0TW.For all your Door Closer requirements e: sales@www.rutlanduk.co.uk or t: 01246 261 491

The North Northamptonshire County Council approached Care Spaces to create a Changing Place facility at East Carlton Country Park due to a high number of disabled visitors. With limited space in the existing Visitor Centre, we installed a Care Capsule™, a modular Changing Place toilet designed offsite for easy transport and assembly. Facing access challenges, the Care Capsule™ had to be delivered in kit form and assembled on-site. Electrical and plumbing services were extended to the location. To minimize environmental impact, ground screws replaced concrete for stability without harming the natural surroundings.The customisability of the Care Capsule™ allowed the client to match the unit with the Visitor Centre's aesthetics, featuring a brick exterior and a steel security door. The unit met Changing Places standards, including Fibo® waterproof internal cladding. Care Spaces provided awareness training to park staff, and the client is pleased with the results, emphasizing the importance of accessible facilities for all visitors. Cllr Matthew Binley expressed delight, stating the facility at East Carlton Countryside Park ensures worry-free visits for everyone.

Cannon Park Shopping Centre in Coventry has undergone a significant transformation. Led by MPR, the redevelopment project includes refurbishment of the existing shopping centre, construction of a new 780-bed student residence, and the addition of a new 400-space multi-storey car park. Biotecture was brought on board to incorporate living walls into the development.In 2021, Biotecture installed a 690 square metre green wall on the multi-storey car park as part of the project’s first phase. We then continued to collaborate with the project’s architects, Urban Innovations, and landscape architects, Parkhood, on phase 2; 9 living walls on the student accommodation phase. The vertical greening was an important part of the scheme, helping to help soften the development, improve air quality, contribute to biodiversity net gain.The living walls are integrated into the building fabric. We worked closely with the design team to ensure that the living walls not only aligned with the desired aesthetics but also met the technical requirements.We used our BioPanel system which uses Grodan® as the growing medium. Grodan is dimensionally stable, chemically inert, and water retentive resulting in healthier and longer-lasting plants.

Architects Gradolí & Sanz designed Imagine Montessori School in Paterna, Valencia with a brief to minimise energy use throughout the lifespan of the building. As a result, the school is the first in Spain to achieve both BREEAM Excellent and GREEN 4 Leaves. Set within a pine forest, accessed through wooden walkways, the school forms a connection with nature at every level. In classrooms where learning zones are accessed freely by the children, the use of timber on both walls and floors sustain the relationship with nature and acts as a peaceful, unifying backdrop. Junckers’ Oak Variation two-strip flooring was matched by wood panelling in pine. The building makes use of building materials with the lowest ecological footprint. The design and carefully selected materials have enabled an energy saving of 70% being achieved compared to similar buildings. Wood, a material with a low carbon footprint, is used in the structure of the building, in the roof panel as well as in interior and exterior enclosures. All Junckers solid wood floors are FSC® and PEFC™ certified and we have recently completed EPDs for all our floors, providing data in relation to the environmental impact of the manufacture of our flooring. 

As part of the BBC DIY SOS build to support the Grenfell community, Structura UK is proud to announce it has helped to realise two ambitious projects to support the survivors of the Grenfell disaster. This includes a brand new Community Centre as well as a replacement for the Dale Youth Amateur Boxing Club which was previously located on the first floor of Grenfell Tower and destroyed in the blaze.Over 200 square metres of Kalwall® translucent cladding has been used along the whole elevation of the new Boxing Club using the newly adapted THERM+ curtain walling system from RAICO.This was the first project realised using the new system and has worked remarkably well. The ability to conceal the fixings and screws coupled with the mill-finished aluminium framing has created a wonderfully smooth and dramatic façade.RAICO President, Dr Stefan Lackner commented, “RAICO has a long standing reputation for innovation and partnerships with customers and associated product suppliers. Working with Structura and Kalwall to develop a solution to integrate windows and glazing into a Kalwall screen has created many potential opportunities. We are particularly pleased that the first live project for our new partnership was for this deserving cause.”

ADRA, the largest social housing provider in North Wales, has collaborated with Marley on a new build project that deploys a solar PV solution on the roofscape. Key to its success was the spirit of teamwork that saw Marley support ADRA throughout the project’s journey. Based in North Wales, ADRA is responsible for 6,800 properties and supports 15,000 local residents. Embarking on its own sustainability journey, the social housing provider needed an effective solar PV solution for the roofscapes of two new semi-detached properties constructed in Bro Pedr Fardd, Gwynedd. A total of 12 Marley SolarTile® panels were specified across the two properties, with the objective behind the product choice, ensuring that the tenants would have access to a clean, sustainable, and cheap energy source to support their daily lives. The need to decarbonise housing stock and create energy efficient, sustainable homes for the future is a vital element of the UK’s progress to net zero by 2050. With regulatory changes to building regulations under Part L now mandatory, those charged with delivering new homes are seeking practical and cost-effective ways to ensure compliance while building high performing homes.

Lambertsson is one of Scandinavia’s largest rental companies and service providers in construction and industrial solutions. Lambertsson erects cranes and elevators for construction projects, among other activities. Shorter building times, better control over costs and smoother processes are therefore critical and beneficial to the project owners.ChallengeLambertsson has been erecting and dismantling elevators for more than a decade using wooden planks or plywood for building the elevator ramps. This method of building ramps is time consuming and resource demanding. Lambertsson needed a simple ramp solution that would make the project planning time more predictable and less time consuming when erecting the elevators. Lambertsson needed a ramp that could handle the same weight as the elevator, equivalent to a capacity of 2.1 tonnes, and without exceeding 1.3 metres from the position .SolutionIn order to meet the criteria of Lambertsson, PcP Scaffolding developed a custom solution based on the PcP OPTIMO® grating series, which is the safest choice for applications in construction, where workers are on the job. To customise a simple solution, PcP built a ramp that is able to lift the same capacity as the elevators, up to 2.1 tonnes, with a span of 80 cm. The ramp is made of aluminium decks and is very light to install.

Material Store is part of The Old Vinyl Factory, a 17-acre site in Hayes.The four ‘warehouse’ blocks of Material Store rise above a podium and surround an oasis of private patios and a large common garden. The parking below the podium is concealed behind 3-bedroom town houses that animate the street with their steps and ‘front’ doors.The roofs of all fours blocks are landscaped as communal gardens. The extended articulated parapet to the tallest block creates an outdoor room and emphasises the building’s position as the tallest element of the masterplan.The 189 build-to-rent homes enjoy generous shared facilities that promote a sense of community in the context of private rented sector (PRS) tenure. These include play areas, a function room, picnic tables, allotments, a concierge service and an onsite maintenance crew. Commercial uses, which front onto the spine street, are intended for sharing with the wider community.The Arriva doorsets plays a key part in this development to create a seamless design. The Arriva system features a split-type EZYJamb®, specially designed to seamlessly integrate with finished wall constructions like stud and plasterboard. This innovative system is ideal for those seeking flush doors with an invisible door frame for a modern and integrated aesthetic.

This new shared campus for two North Lanarkshire primary schools has been designed by leading architects Halliday Fraser Munro to reflect the individual identities of the two schools whilst uniting them in one single building.The layout of the new school building reflects the dual-nature of the campus, with two separate two-storey teaching wings set around a central courtyard. This open space and the surrounding linked buildings provide shared facilities including a gymnasium and dining hall. Constructed by main contractor and established supply chain partner, Morgan Sindall, the new modern school building benefits from several aluminium fenestration solutions from across Senior’s extensive range.The eye-catching main façade features Senior’s thermally-enhanced SF52 aluminium curtain wall system with integrated SPW501 aluminium commercial doors which provide safe and secure access. Throughout the building, Senior’s patented low U-value PURe® aluminium casement windows have been specified to help reduce heat loss and boost the overall energy-efficiency of the scheme. Senior’s fenestration systems were fabricated and installed by specialist contractor Linn-Tech.

New West End theatre in London, opened in 2022 as part of the Crossrail project (Architect Fianagan Lawrence), where a new and high-quality product made of laminated safety glass - Fini Stone VSG/TVG Glass Stone Laminate – with Stone Veneer - has been installed.Total: 240m2 Fini Stone VSG/TVG Glass Stone Laminate – with Stone Veneer - in different glass structures:approx. 60m² curved glass-stone laminatesapprox. 180m² flat glass-stone laminatesSoho Place seamlessly integrates architecture, urban regeneration, and cultural spaces, making it a remarkable and dynamic addition to London’s cityscape.For more information on the project please feel free to contact:FINIGLAS Veredelungs GmbHWierlings Hook 548249 DülmenTel.-Nr. +49-2594-78905-137Fax-Nr. +49-2594-78905-130Andre Seifert / Sales curved glassCell: +49-172-4560654Email: aseifert@finiglas.deHilal Aksit / Sales & MarketingTel: +49-2594-78905-128Email: haksit@finiglas.deWeb: www.finiglas.deContact GlassParts for #evguard® in UK & IrelandTony Mallick +44 7392 458390tony@glassparts.co.ukwww.glassparts.co.uk

The Leicester FC state-of-the-art £100m elite sports training facility occupies a 185-acre site in Seagrave, Leicestershire. Designed by KSS Architects, a world-leading specialist in the design of major sports venues and training centres, the project was a core aspiration of the club’s Chairman Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha who tragically died in 2018.The training centre is regarded as one of the most advanced in Europe in terms of its quality, scale and sustainability ambitions. KSS specified Rockfon® Mono® Acoustic – a seamless acoustic ceiling – for key areas throughout the site. Son of Khun Vichai and current Leicester City Chairman, Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, “A new training ground has been a dream many years in the making, so it is with great pride that we have been able to deliver this. Seagrave will be a pivotal part of the club’s operation for generations to come.”Rockfon Mono Acoustic – the perfect matchAround 430m2 of Rockfon Mono Acoustic ceilings are installed to ensure optimum sound control while delivering a seamless, smooth, aesthetic. Among others, these spaces include the hydrotherapy pool area, the 1st Team changing room and the Owners Suite.KSS Associate Director Lorenzo Pierini, commented, “Rockfon Mono Acoustic was the clear choice for use throughout these spaces as it gave us the contemporary, minimalist look we wanted, while meeting the demanding acoustic control required.”The ultimate alternative There are several acoustic ceiling options available but for the ultimate in looks and sound control, an acoustic render provides the perfect solution. With Rockfon Mono Acoustic, the ceiling tile substrate is installed and then finished with a specialist acoustic render to create a seamless surface. Mono can be used for ceilings, walls, or to create bespoke islands. Its versatility means it can be used to form curves, easily transitioned into plasterboard or integrated into existing mouldings. Outstanding performance Mono achieves Class A sound absorption and Class A2 fire protection whilst delivering 87% light reflection and greater than 99% light diffusion. Thanks to its core of naturally occurring, non-hygroscopic stone wool, it provides no sustenance to harmful micro-organisms, embodies high humidity resistance and is impervious to most environmental pressures. It is Bronze level Cradle to Cradle Certified® and can also contribute valuably to LEED, BREAM and WELL Building Standards.Installation courtesy of Pacy & Wheatley. Pacy & Wheatley Director Craig Wheatley, “The scale and ambition of this project is truly epic. As with the majority of modern developments, large windows, stone, structural steel and other resonant architectural elements can generate unwanted sound. That’s where Mono Acoustic really scores as it does not necessitate a compromise between style and sound control – a win win – if you will. Its flexibility meant we could seamlessly integrate linear and spot lighting at Leicester and neatly incorporate hatches for easy access to the services above. In the pool area the system also enabled us to elegantly transition into plasterboard perimeter upstand abutments.”The wider masterplan The training ground masterplan includes the Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha Building, which houses the primary training, medical and administrative hub. There are twelve full-size pitches, a show pitch with a 499-seat stand to allow academy teams to play in a match environment, The King Power Centre – the site’s central point, housing a full size indoor pitch and media centre that moulds into the landscape, an integrated training centre for first-team and academy squads including fitness and hydrotherapy suites, tactics, media, dining facilities and a nine-hole recreational golf course. McLaren were appointed Main Contractor at Seagrave and were responsible for leading the project. Senior Project Manager at the firm, Simon Ruddick, “The unrelenting progress of this project from day one was a testament to our continued ethos of partnering with key customers, and working to overcome delivery challenges... We have overcome some of the most challenging weather in recorded history too, and of course restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic.”McLaren Managing Director, South, Jay Newman, “It has been an honour to partner with Leicester City to deliver their new training facility, set to shape the players of today and tomorrow. Building on our considerable experience in sports and leisure, Seagrave has become one of the most modern training facilities in Europe. 

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

The Crouch End Picturehouse in North London is an interesting example of how Kalwall® can be used to convert an ugly 1950’s concrete building into a state-of-the-art space suitable for the 21st Century.  •   This project by Panter Hudspith Architects forms part of a wider initiative within the London suburb of Haringey aiming to re-establish the area as one of London’s cultural and arts centres. The result is a remarkable transformation of a building, originally a factory then an office, into a £4.5 million cinema complete with café, bar, restaurant and community rooms.  •   The unique style of this four-screen cinema has attracted much interest, not only because of the dramatic transformation but also because of its new external elevation. •   The use of Kalwall, coupled with other sustainable measures including solar panels and a green wall, means the picturehouse has achieved a BREEAM rating of Very Good. The Solution Panter Hudspith Architects replaced the original curtain wall and specified Kalwall® for the front elevation. Unusually, this unique translucent cladding is fitted with a tight 150mm wide grid, known as Verti-Kal™, which not only serves to emphasise height but is the first of its type in the UK. On this scheme the Kalwall panels also insulate to 0.78 w/m2 making the building eye-catching and sustainable. Unlike conventional glazing, Kalwall eliminates shadows and glare and the stark contrasts of light and shade. The system also enhances simplicity by eliminating the need for blinds, curtains or solar control. Even on cloudy days, the interior is bathed with natural daylight, which means less artificial lighting and, because Kalwall is highly insulating, energy costs are reduced. Kalwall is increasingly being used in the UK for new buildings and also for the refurbishment of cladding or rooflights on aged buildings. One of the main attractions of specifying Kalwall is its unique effect on both the interior and exterior. Although translucent, it offers the big advantage of privacy while the elevations appear crisp and simple. When illuminated at night they emit an inviting ethereal glow.  The CommentsArchitect James Jeremiah comments, “This is the first time we’ve specified Kalwall and it fulfils our vision of retaining the modernist characteristics of the building. One of our original concepts for the building was of a zoetrope (one of the earliest forms of moving image) and there’s a strong history of using transparency in films with people moving behind the shadows. We felt the Kalwall system was a very good fit for what we wanted to achieve”. Amanda Birch, Technical Editor Building Design writes, “To appreciate fully the building’s transformation, it is best viewed from the street. The concrete structure has been retained along with its striking line of concrete columns, which are now a strong feature of the front elevation. The original coloured insulated glass panelled system has been replaced at first and second floor levels with Kalwall’s 75mm thick insulated cladding system creating a dynamic façade that is particularly effective at night.

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

Coopers Fire proudly installed multiple fire and smoke curtains in this iconic building in London.Coopers Fire was approached in 2013 to support multiple Architects and Fire Engineers to work through the difficult interface designs on the historic Battersea building that posed multiple challenges in incorporating smoke and fire strategies whilst maintaining the legacy build design.This was a great opportunity to once again put forward the innovative solutions that have attracted Architects to Coopers Fire on many occasions previously.These challenges followed with the introduction of bespoke curtain systems stretching the designs beyond the norm. There was also a need to carry out support testing to validate their capability and to offer comfort to the stakeholders.Coopers Fire offered continual support to the key stakeholders including the Architect and Fire Engineer community, giving them confidence in ongoing collaboration with Coopers Fire for future projects.The Coopers Fire product design and interfacing, complete with valid specifications, went a long way to assist a Contractors partnership decision in supplying and installing the finished product whilst enabling live design changes with the aligned Architect engaged on the project.The project required FireMaster® Concertina curtains 25m width and 12m in height of straight sections, with an integrity rating of 30 minutes.The Coopers Fire Concertina product portfolio allowed for 12m width and 8m height of straight length sections so the product needed re-designing and bespoke engineering to suit the requirements of the project.A specimen of the engineered solution was tested at an accredited fire testing lab. The specimen achieved 66 minutes integrity rating, without failure.The combined engineering design, testing and fire test data allowed Coopers Fire to meet the requirements of supplying a 25m wide and 12m high FireMaster® Open Concertina fire curtain.One major challenge of the large Concertina products was installation. The 12m drop Concertina fire curtains were installed successfully on site using a combination of scaffolding and mobile platforms and at some points with minimal headspace to work within.The Concertinas were so long that onsite redesign and engineering were required to ensure the bottom tray engaged perfectly with the headbox.The Concertina retaining guides were also so long they required onsite welding. A further four levels below the curtain drop, meant that total installation height was higher than 12 metres from the ground spanning over the voids either side of the bridge below.The Coopers Fire production and installation teams collaborated to manufacture the individual parts of the Concertina fabric off site to ensure the programme of installation was kept on time.Coopers Fire installed:47 x Vertical fire curtains7 x Concertina curtains32 x Vertical smoke curtainsThe team used for the Concertina installation specialise in this product and were able to overcome onsite challenges to ensure the huge Concertina fire curtains operated as expected and deployed effectively.

There is, rightly, a continuing trend towards sustainability and sustainable design being spearheaded by forward-thinking architects and designers and building product manufacturers all keen to minimise waste in the construction industry.  Initiatives and schemes from PEFC™ and FSC® certification through to Cradle-to-Cradle design, circular economy LEED, BREEAM, and DGNB are all leaders in the fields of sustainability. This is helping drive manufacturers and specifiers to think about how they work and the products they use. One of the manufacturers which has been championing this is Danish wood wool panel manufacturer Troldtekt. Both FSC® and PEFC™ certified, the company has set strict environmental targets for its manufacture and products culminating in a transparent roadmap in its 2013 CSR report. This has led the company to be one of Europe’s most vociferous advocates for sustainable design and one which contributes positively to BREEAM, WELL, LEED and DGNB-certifications. It was recently awarded the prestigious Danish Industry Award for Green Transformation presented by HRH Crown Princess Mary.  The company’s green stance has not gone unnoticed among designers and ethical designers such as Sibley Grove which pioneer strategies that deliver sustainable interior schemes. For example, when they were appointed to re-design The Chamberlain Hotel’s public areas, sustainability was paramount. The studio’s unique approach to design assesses the environmental and social impact of every design decision, from the origin of the materials to where they end up at the end of their lifecycle. As a result, they specified as many sustainable and Cradle-to-Cradle certified materials as possible, including Troldtekt’s panels Cradle to Cradle-certified to silver level. By specifying these, the environmental impact is minimal. Troldtekt is circular and the material can go back to nature as a nutrient in the biological circuit or be included as a raw material in the production of cement in the technical circuit. By adopting a circular approach to design, Sibley Grove removes the traditional linear system of consumption and waste that plagues the design industry. It considers the entire lifecycle of a product, ensuring materials are reused or integrated back into the natural world. This reduces demand on resources, reduces landfill and encourages the production of clean, reusable materials. Troldtekt acoustic panels, manufactured from certified wood, a 100% natural material, and cement extracted from Danish mineral resources, achieve high levels of technical performance and is free of harmful substances so can therefore be returned to nature. They offer projects high sound absorption, high durability and natural breathability with low cost life cycle performance and sustainability. Available in various sizes and in four grades from extreme to coarse, the panels can be left untreated or painted in virtually any RAL colour. Samples, case studies and technical information are easily sourced from www.troldtekt.co.uk (tel 01978 664255). In addition, information about Troldtekt’s Sustainability theme can be found at www.troldtekt.com/environment-and-csr

Systems in UseWilotekt®-PlusForce®Force Dalle®Aquamodul®OverviewBerkeley Homes initially contacted Axter in early 2017 about their project to create 844 apartments (including 175 affordable units), plus 8 shops, a restaurant, and a public plaza. The development, located in Edgware Road, will bring prosperity and jobs as well as housing, to a part of London in need of regeneration.The development involves 11 apartment blocks and is divided into 4 phases. Axter were involved in design prior to works starting, and were subsequently awarded the contract for Phase 1, later expanded to include Phase 2 and the current Phase 3.This is an update to a project we initially wrote about in its first phase. As noted there, Phase 1 was complicated by the fact that the Government amended the Building Regulations in 2018, after design work was completed and approved, imposing stricter requirements in relation to combustible materials in high-rise buildings. Timing meant that the developer was permitted to proceed under the old regime, but elected to apply stricter safety standards including a voluntary change to the system used on the balconies that was both tested to BRoof(t4) and included non-combustible insulation. The Axter team had to work quickly to amend designs but were able to modify the approved solution so that work could continue as scheduled.Phil Saunders, Regional Sales Director at Axter, has been our lead throughout the work. “This is one of the most challenging projects I have worked on,” he notes, “but also one of the most rewarding. Unique solutions were required to solve more than one problem, but it has been great to work on a development involving many technically elegant and aesthetically pleasing aspects, with a range of roofing systems and finishes, including Blue, Brown and Green Roof elements.”Additional challengesWestminster Council’s planning requirements included specific stormwater attenuation targets. With limited space onsite, Kevin Leahy, Technical Director at Berkeley Homes, was considering a Blue Roof solution, something the developer had not implemented before, so support from a technical manufacturer was especially important from the outset.Numerous other difficulties have had to be overcome during this project. Work was disrupted by Covid lockdowns not long after roofing commenced in 2019. Phases 2 and 3, which were very similar, also required us to support our partner through complex change: Phase 1 involved an inverted roof, a solution assumed to carry forward. However, assessment of weight restrictions and outlet positions meant that design would need to switch to a warm roof with tapered insulation.Additionally, work has continued throughout the period of the Ukraine conflict, where prices and supply of materials have been difficult to navigate.SolutionsTo achieve planning permission, Axter worked with Kevin and Berkeley Homes between 2017 and 2019, presenting the resultant roofing design for approval. We were able to demonstrate that the plans met sustainable drainage obligations. The London Plan for sustainable design and construction also imposed requirements, which were met by a mix of living roof solutions including Green Roof and Brown Roof finishes.“We’re happy to present Westminster Council to support the planning application,” continues Phil. “We have worked with Berkeley Homes many times and continue to do so on several projects. Nothing matters more to us than building and maintaining ongoing relationships with partners who know they can trust us to take weight from their shoulders.”Construction continued throughout the lockdown period, with Axter working hard to ensure uninterrupted supply. Materials continued to be delivered in a safe manner, and QA reviews were held virtually until we could resume our usual regular site visits.A switch in roofing approach generally changes the sequencing of work such as integration of roofing and door thresholds. “We were able to come up with an innovative solution involving multiple systems, including cold-applied liquid waterproofing, that permitted the original sequencing to remain,” says Phil. Change was also required in relation to upstand penetration details and movement joints.Throughout the project, Axter has been able to provide partners with full designs involving bespoke details, plus rainwater and u-value calculations, to ensure compliance at every stage.“We worked hard to find the smartest, most cost-effective solutions,” adds Phil. “We also appreciated that this was not the time to be too rigid in pricing. Some pain all round might be unavoidable in this difficult period, but we aimed to share the impact. We were also able to offer partners a guarantee of price stability for a set period of time, so they could proceed with certainty.”Axter manufactures its own systems and works carefully to plan ahead and liaise with long-standing supply partners. This allows us to stay ahead of shortages and offer accurate delivery timelines. Company-wide, we have been able to supply all systems as pledged.All of Axter’s approved installers must complete training specific to the systems involved, but in this case so many bespoke design elements were involved that we organised training specific to the project for all operatives. This training was also extended to the Berkeley Homes construction team, to ensure they were supported in how the roofing would integrate with other areas of construction.“This has been an exceptionally successful project”, comments Phil. “Hurdles have arisen, but with communication and hard work we have supported our client through rapid transitions and financial challenges. We have been very flexible on pricing, but we were not necessarily the cheapest initial bid. We were chosen anyway, because I think Berkeley Homes understands we add value that makes us the cost-effective option for the building’s future lifetime.”Phase 3 designs were approved early this year, with work just starting. Axter is now busy with design for Phase 4, with the project expected to continue through to 2025.

Located near Highgate in North London, the Chester Balmore project consists of three elegant brick-clad blocks, housing a contemporary collection of 53 super-insulated one, two and three-bedroom flats, all set around a landscaped courtyard. The development is designed to achieve Code for Sustainable Homes Level 4 and the high levels of insulation employ good use of solar and internal heat gains, plus excellent air tightness and minimal thermal bridges. It is claimed that the air tightness on the Chester Balmore development is around twenty times better than that required by Building Regulations.Preventing thermal bridging along the parapets was a critical consideration for such a high performance development, because as with balconies, parapets can allow conductive materials to transfer energy through the thermal barrier. Conventionally, in the majority of cases, the method of insulating parapets and parapet walls is to wrap the perimeter of the wall with an insulation barrier. However, the Schöck Isokorb® T type A offers a cost-effective and more thermally efficient alternative. Its 60mm insulation thickness results in low psi-values and therefore significantly reduces heat loss – and there is no wrapping required. It offers a more sophisticated construction opportunity for greater freedom of design and offers flexible distance between elements according to load requirements.

THE PROJECTPaddington Exchange is a collection of 123 high specifications one, two and three bedroom apartments arranged over fourteen spacious floors developed by Taylor Wimpey Central London.The development is located in a sought after canal-side location, situated on the site of the former North Western Community School, offering easy access to a number of high-end street cafes, restaurants and shops. A wealth of transport links around the city are found at the site of the Paddington Exchange project.THE PRODUCTThe project features multiple banks of wall recessed fire rated 2 mailboxes located in the entrance lobby area. The mailboxes contain a series of features and benefits that result in a ‘one hour integrity’ rating that conforms to the BS476 Part 22 fire standards. For more information, please visit our fire rated mailbox page.The mailboxes are finished in an IGP-DURA®xal paint using a Dark Bronze – E82987 colour. Each mailbox features engraved numbering in a COPASETIC NF font on the opening flap coloured with a contrasting black infill.The banks of mailboxes are completed with a surrounding trim used to mask the join between the mailboxes and the installation wall. Large panels are used in conjunction with the banks of mailboxes which allow for easy identification of the relevant mailbox for both the residents and postal delivery workers.

The owner of this house wanted to build a purpose-built home to meet the needs of his growing up family.  He wanted to live in the village he grew up in but at the same time it was important that the design embraced new concepts and ideas. The end result is a stunning contemporary luxury home that incorporates large glazing areas throughout. There has been a careful use of traditional stone, wood and also unique metal cladding detail with the external design. Internally the feeling throughout is minimalistic clean lines, with the furniture being a perfect complement to the end result. With the exception of the switchable privacy glass for the window adjacent to the front door, the inclusion of completely concealed fully automated blinds to all other windows are the ’Grand Finale’ to this beautiful home.  When not required the blinds are completely concealed but at the press of a button or using their mobile devices, blinds appear as required – providing shading, sun protection, privacy or blackout blinds as required.A feature of interest is the large gable window in the master bedroom.  Here Honeycell Duette® blinds have also been concealed within the sloping ceiling and again appear from their hiding places when required showing that irregular shaped areas can benefit from the Blindspace headboxes which can be made to conceal almost any blind available on the market.

The owner of this house wanted to build a purpose-built home to meet the needs of his growing up family. He wanted to live in the village he grew up in but at the same time it was important that the design embraced new concepts and ideas. The end result is a stunning contemporary luxury home that incorporates large glazing areas throughout. There has been a careful use of traditional stone, wood and also unique metal cladding detail with the external design. Internally the feeling throughout is minimalistic clean lines, with the furniture being a perfect complement to the end result.  With the exception of the switchable privacy glass for the window adjacent to the front door, the inclusion of completely concealed fully automated blinds to all other windows are the ’Grand Finale’ to this beautiful home. When not required the blinds are completely concealed but at the press of a button or using their mobile devices, blinds appear as required – providing shading, sun protection, privacy or blackout blinds as required.  A feature of interest is the large gable window in the master bedroom. Here Honeycell Duette® blinds have also been concealed within the sloping ceiling and again appear from their hiding places when required showing that irregular shaped areas can benefit from the Blindspace headboxes which can be made to conceal almost any blind available on the market.

The latest sustainable materials to be added to our range are BioCarbon® zero carbon laminates. These are the first carbon neutral materials of this type to be available in the UK.In addition to having all the durability and decorative characteristics of standard HPL materials, BioCarbon also provides both anti-bacterial and anti-microbial protection, as well as being zero carbon.This combination of features makes it ideal for our Pendock Washroom range of cubicles and is also used within our Pendock Linea building linings products as a durable finishing solution.BioCarbon is manufactured using renewable and sustainable energy sources together with a range of initiatives to offset production processes making it carbon neutral. Manufactured in Colombia, where almost 70% of all energy generated is from hydro-electric, this is what powers, the manufacturing plant.Beyond this, the material used to create the HPL and CL laminates, which is primarily paper, is harvested from sustainable sources and is offset by BioCarbon with its own 200 hectare re-forestation programme that helps absorb 400 tonnes of carbon dioxide, annually. The programme is monitored and audited by PwC.Storage, handling and distribution impacts are also factored into the calculations, which results in a range of products, where the entire process from manufacturing to fabricator is carbon neutral.

About the projectFrisby Lakes Lodge Park is an award-winning East Midlands site with a plan to develop 59 luxurious Finnish Log lodges made from 100% renewable material. Situated in the beautiful Leicestershire countryside with lodges overlooking a large fishing lake, this stunning park has a lot to offer for those wishing to move to an upcoming, safe-haven location for the over 45’s including beautiful electric-operated FAKRO roof windows.These timber-built Finnish Log lodges use materials sourced from managed forests and other controlled sources, which are crucial to sustainability and are FSC® certified. FAKRO roof windows add to the eco credentials as they use FSC-certified pine to make their high-quality pine frames.Which FAKRO products are installed?Installed into the luxury lodges are FAKRO’s FTW-V P2 Z-Wave roof windows with ARF Blackout Z-Wave blinds that are controlled remotely. At the flick of a switch, residents are able to specify the airflow through the room as well as automating the operation of the blinds, giving them the best of both worlds in one window system! Why were FAKRO products chosen?The eco-credentials of FAKRO windows were very important to this build. In terms of environmental impact, FAKRO products are designed to provide the highest standards of thermal efficiency while being manufactured using replenishable natural resources.

Marioff provided an efficient and environmentally sustainable fire protection solution.The unique structural requirements and responsibility of protecting more than 2,000 staff members, plus the public, called for a reliable and trustworthy partner in fire protection.The Brent Civic Centre, a council and community space in London, chose Marioff HI-FOG® water mist fire suppression to safeguard their sustainable building. The Centre serves as the headquarters of Brent Council, a London Borough local authority. It is situated in the Wembley Park area of Brent and opened in 2013 and was designed to be the greenest public building in the UK.The Centre needed an efficient and environmentally sustainable fire protection solution for the one-of-a-kind nine-story building. The structure features a five-story atrium, which doubles as an events venue, and a drum-shaped area that hosts a wide range of government functions, community events, and services.Brent Civic Centre chose Marioff HI-FOG as a sustainable solution. The fire suppression system put in place, validated by real fire tests, discharges fine water mist particles to efficiently cool radiant heat. This is accomplished while using significantly less water than a traditional sprinkler system — in keeping with the Centre’s sustainability focus. HI-FOG provides peace of mind to administration while safeguarding lives and ensuring continuity for the critical city hub.