"general products"

Canonbie Road was home to a former hostel, which was demolished to construct a three-storey building comprising six council homes for families requiring temporary accommodation. Led by Lewisham Council as part of their programme to deliver new affordable council homes across the borough, the development includes dual-aspect family units of two and three beds in two wings that step with the sloping site. Each flat has generous private amenity space, access to a shared tree-lined garden and twelve cycle spaces.Cellecta’s YELOfon HD10+ was specified by Avanti Architects due to the system being lightweight, easy to install, and delivers unrivalled acoustic performance when used to isolate a floating screed from a structural concrete floor. YELOfon HD10+ is an acclaimed resilient layer system that carries 3 proprietary Robust Details: E-FC-5, 17 & 18.Building Associates Limited were supplied 450m² of Cellecta products for this development in Forest Hill.

Construction of Herman Miller’s New HQ and distribution centre began in 2014, being the biggest single investment in the town, and creating 200 jobs in the local area.Soundis Absorb-R Timber Grooved 14/2m Sound Absorption panels...The 170,000 sq metre warehouse project required Absorb-R Timber Grooved 14/2m Sound Absorption panels to be fitted to the walls of the office area, meeting rooms, restaurant and general circulation space. The acoustic wall panels were specified for innovative design and high sound absorption acoustic performance.The timber wall panels are grooved, providing impeccable sound absorption performances, but also ensuring a high class aesthetic finish and feel with a choice of timber types and finishes.Herman Miller provide “Class A” products and are renowned for great quality and therefore required a sound absorption solution to comply with their own brand style. Soundis fitted perfectly to the Herman Miller specification throughout the installation space being treated and installed by UK Acoustic Systems.

As part of the regeneration programme within the bid for the 2012 Summer Olympics, the Olympic Village (now known as the multiple award-winning East Village) was designed to house the athletes based on reusing the buildings after the games as a new residential district for Stratford.The 67 acres site, provided for 11 residential plots, each made up of 5 to 7 blocks, built around communal squares and courtyards, with water features accentuating the proximity of the River Lea.Radmat Building Products provided the waterproofing system and the MedO Extensive living green roofs on much of the apartments, to provide a low maintenance and self-sustaining plant community. Working with expert horticulturalists, Radmat Building Products have developed the MedO range of living green roofing systems. All systems are suitable for both new and refurbishment projects and are constructed using the appropriate drainage board, filter fleece and growing medium for the planting required.

Queens Crescent is a bustling retail street situated in London’s Kentish Town. The roof area above the Post Office building, which also served as a communal walkway area with access to the upper level of the adjacent buildings, had been suffering from leaks. To add to the issues, the aged promenade tiles had worn and become a slip hazard when trafficked. Looking for a lasting waterproof solution that can also provide heavy duty anti-slip surfacing, the client turned to Polyroof for a solution. To minimise access disruption to the upper level adjacent buildings, the client had organised a 5-day window for the waterproofing and surfacing works to be completed.The SolutionThe main contractor had removed the old paving slabs and membrane back to the concrete deck underneath and carried out repairs to create a level surface.Approved Polyroof Contractor Emperor Roofing began by priming the concrete surface to create a sealed, non-porous substrate. With its quick-curing properties, the Polyroof primer was ready to be over-coated only 30 minutes after its installation.A specialist twin-pack epoxy metallic primer was applied to metal detailing sections, including ducting vents and the intricate balustrade detail alongside the communal stairwell, which also formed part of the specified works.Local reinforcements were carried out to these details involving taking Protec resin and PolyMat 450 up by 150mm before applying the full waterproofing system.Upon completion, the balustrades were re-painted, with the paint being taken over the waterproofing membrane to create a neat detail. A key advantage of liquid systems in general is their ability to seamlessly seal around complex detailing; in this instance, quite simply, the balustrades could not have been sealed effectively using a traditional waterproofing technology.Polyroof’s Protec System enjoys exceptionally fast detailing speeds, where its formulation allows it to rapidly break down the chopped strand mat reinforcement and neatly moulds around the detail it is covering. To the left of the stairwell, the Protec system was chased in at a height of 150mm above the level of the stairs.The termination point of the waterproofing membrane was sealed with mastic to create a fully weatherproof detail. The Protec system was dressed onto the wall abutments to the main areas but left self-terminated as new render is to be applied to the walls and taken down over the top of the Protec system.After local reinforcements were completed the main waterproofing system was applied to the walkway and stair areas.The two-coat Protec system was able to be rapidly installed with its 30-60 minutes cure times, meaning the project was comfortably ahead of schedule by the time it was complete.Next, the designated anti-slip areas were carefully masked off, leaving the exposed waterproofing to the roof perimeters, detailing and vertical sides of the step and stairs. A third coat of Protec was applied to the masked sections and, whilst the liquid was still wet, 0.7-1.2mm quartz sand aggregate was broadcast into the resin.Once dried, the aggregate is embedded within the membrane and lose sand was brushed off and collected to be re-used. In order to provide an extra-tough surface that sealed that aggregate in place, a coating of PolyFinish was applied over the aggregate in the client’s choice of light grey.

Originally an anonymous, almost forbidding, seven-storey office block constructed in the 1980s, York House on Pentonville Road in Islington is being transformed into a contemporary, light-filled co-working space fit for 21st century use.The original building frontage was set back from the road, but the addition of a new five-story front extension introduces an attractive double-height entrance with offices above. Using similar engineering bricks to the main, original building, the new construction allows light to flood in through the use of structurally self-supporting perforated brick lattice, angled at 45 degrees to gain stiffness. A cross-laminated timber structure sits behind while openable windows allow fresh air to circulate.At roof level, a new, cross-laminated timber structure, clad in a perforated zig-zag aluminium screen, echoes the front extension while softening the building edge.The brick selected for the project was a Blue Brindle Smooth – a high quality smooth brick that closely matched the masonry of the original building. The complexity of the lattice work structure required special shapes of brick and perforation to allow visibility through the bricks at the right points. Working closely with the architect, it took the team nine months of developing and testing to get the strength of the product right. Three lengths of brick were produced and used in the construction of the extension: 215s were used in the building of the chevron parapet, 345s were used on the parapet and alongside the entrance, and 440s were used to create the latticework on the main entrance.We are proud to announce that York House was highly commended at the 2019 Brick Awards in the Innovation category and is a great example of a collaborative approach with our customers.

This groundbreaking project required a sheathing board that would form an integral part of an insulated render system, providing 60-minute through-wall fire resistance and meeting project-specific acoustic requirements. Project: Northumbria Specialist Emergency Care Hospital Project Value: £70 million Architect: Keppie Design Main Contractor: Lend Lease Subcontractor: Farpod Dry Lining Product: Versapanel Size: 2800mmx1200mmx12mm Quantity: 30,000m2

When it comes to refurbishing a landmark as historic and luxurious as the Old War Office, every detail counts. The selection of Access Building Products Access Panels for this prestigious project is a testament to the company’s commitment to quality, design, and functionality.The Project: A Blend of History and LuxuryFast forward to today, the Grade II listed Old War Office building, which has been closed to the public for more than a century, has undergone a magnificent transformation. The building has been re-imagined and redeveloped into a luxury hotel and residences, bringing a new lease of life to this historic site. This transformation demanded products that could match its grandeur while maintaining its historic charm.The Challenge: Balancing Aesthetics and FunctionalityEvery customer wants their access panels to seamlessly blend with the interior design, ensuring that the necessary utility access points don’t detract from the building’s aesthetic appeal. This was a critical consideration for such a historical building.The Result: A Seamless Fusion of History and ModernitySupplying a range of discreet steel and plaster in style access panels in the Old War Office refurbishment was a resounding success. These panels not only met the practical requirements but also added to the overall aesthetic, creating a harmonious blend of historic elegance and modern luxury.The Old War Office now stands as a shining example of how to preserve historical charm while incorporating modern necessities. This project has further cemented Access Building reputation as a reliable provider of high-quality access panels, capable of meeting the demands of even the most prestigious refurbishment projects.In conclusion, when history meets luxury, it’s essential to make the right choices. And in the case of the Old War Office refurbishment, Access Building Products Access Panels were the perfect choice.

The sports club is a regular host of Scotland cricket international matches as well as hosting hockey, squash and tennis. Neil and the senior groundsman had noticed a couple of issues surfacing on a large grassed area of the club which was occasionally used as an access route, vehicular parking and servicing of the ground during big cricket matches and other events. We look at how TurfMesh worked for The Grange while causing minimal effects to the aesthetics of this beautiful sports ground.Knowing that to improve the situation, the club would need to invest in an efficient grass reinforcement solution, Neil and the senior groundsman began researching grass reinforcement products which soon led them to our website and our range of TurfMesh products, in particular TurfMesh 1800 – our thickest turf mesh variant.They both read up on the meshes many benefits including its ability to withstand the weight of cars and lorries as well as being very easy to install using just u-pins whilst protecting the root of the grass. Impressed by its capabilities and discreetness once the grass below has grown, over 1000m² of the TM1800 was ordered along with enough U-Pins to secure the mesh into the ground which was dispatched the next working day and delivered to the club via pallet delivery just a few days later.With the TurfMesh and u-pins at the sports club, the senior groundsman and his team could begin installing their new grass reinforcement mesh on to the prior planned area. TurfMesh is a simple product to install, simply unroll the mesh and position over the area you want to cover. To secure the mesh, evenly space and use two u-pins per. Repeat the process of unroll and secure until the entire area has been covered. The team followed this procedure which they found to be simple and effective. With the mesh secure, the groundsman then decided to dress the top of the TurfMesh with sand to compact the area further. All that was left to do after was wait for the grass below to grow through and disguise the mesh to give them a strong and natural looking surface!Neil and the groundsmen that worked with the TurfMesh are very pleased with the results and how it has performed. Neil told us:“As you can see the grass has grown in very well at this end. There is still a bit of sand, which we dressed in, on the surface at the south end but we’re very happy with the way it is working.” “We have a couple of One Day Internationals coming up in the next few weeks, Scotland v England and Scotland v Pakistan, so we are hoping the grass will look pristine by then.”We would like to thank Neil and Grange Sports Club for firstly, choosing to use our grass reinforcement mesh and for sharing the photos and details to allow us to create an in-depth case study of their project. If you have questions regarding our grass reinforcement mesh or any of our other products then please do not hesitate to contact us

Heated Lockers were the focus of Helmsman’s most recent project. We travelled up to South Kirby in Pontefract, Yorkshire to work alongside Triton Construction at the brand-new Innovation Hub at Production Park. Production Park is a unique support environment for the live events industry, uniting technology, creative spaces and education. Their newest venture is the brand-new Innovation Hub, with a large research studio with connected offices and teaching spaces. The new innovation hub features specialist equipment designed to support the live events industry as well as a business support programme focusing on assisting SMEs.In an area off the main entrance lobby, Helmsman installed a set of Wet Specification Heated Lockers. With a mix of 1, 2 and 4 compartments, these lockers are designed with a single or twin tube heater at the bottom of the locker, hidden within the locker stand, and perforations throughout to allow warm and/or damp air to circulate and escape the locker. Triton Construction requested a modern, heavy duty laminate finish for these heated lockers. The body of the lockers was manufactured from aluminium and powder coated in colour Ice, whilst we used Biocarbon’s Solid Grade Laminate in colour Elegant Grey for the locker doors, end panels and cladding. This laminate is a great choice as it is carbon neutral as well as being moisture resistant and easy to clean, perfect for a semi-public area such as this project. Our heated lockers can either come with a standard 3 pin power plug or can be available with a spur to wire into a fused switch. Triton construction requested a plug which was positioned on the end panel of the bank of lockers.We paired stainless steel numbers recessed into the doors with Lowe and Fletcher camlocks for a seamless finish to the lockers.  This option of lock is simple and cost effective, whilst also safe and secure.It was great to work with Triton Construction on this project and we look forward to hearing about the success of the Innovation Hub at Production Park in the future. If you have a similar project, or want to know more about our Heated Lockers, contact us today on 01284 530427.

Continuing its launch programme, Sayfa Group has innovated the traditional safety post, working to the company's unique 25³ NPD philosophy:25% saving to install25% reduction in cost25% less environmental impactFallSecure™ Post (patent pending) is manufactured from 6082-T6 structural aluminium and 316 stainless components. Fully SATRA tested to BS810:2017 for three users and 14kN rated the maximum system size is 144m with 12m post centres. The system has intermediate, corner, and end brackets with shock absorbers and tension forks. As with all Sayfa, products weather caps are available in high visibility safety yellow or discreet grey.The posts provide a hybrid functionality, offering a SLS that prevents accidental deployment and yet also prevents or significantly reduces forces deployed to the roof structure.With a range of post heights from 180mm to 650mm all weighing less than 5kg, risks with manual handling are much reduced, and carbon contributions from logistics cut significantly.Sayfa+ partner contractors benefit from a proprietary fixing method, reducing the necessity for rebar cutters and drill depth/diametre, helping the product achieve 25% saving in on-site labour.With a 30-year warranty, which increases to 60 years with Sayfa+ approved contractors installation and annual inspection, the materials are almost 100% recyclable. Of all aluminium extracted it is estimated 75% remains in use.

Employing precision techniques and careful material selection, Hardscape assisted in the design and production of innovative paving artwork for Regent Street, in the centre of Douglas. The Isle of Man Town and Village Regeneration Scheme was implemented to infuse a new energy into the island’s commercial districts.

In a recent refurbishment of the Sea Life centre in Brighton, international flooring specialist Gerflor supplied 670m2 of vinyl flooring. The project included a fusion of their GTI Max Technical Tiles and Tarasafe Ultra Safety flooring collections.Neil Harris, General Manager, Sea Life Brighton commented, “We chose Gerflor’s GTI Max and Tarasafe Ultra products because we needed a fast-track solution for a unique and challenging environment, which sits within a 150-year-old grade two listed building. Gerflor specialists were on hand, having visited the site, they offered the best solution for our unique building and considered all the various environmental factors that we manage.”Neil Harris further added, “We would absolutely specify Gerflor flooring again. In fact, some of our on-site partners immediately reached out to Gerflor to highlight their interest in having similar work carried out in other parts of the building. Gerflors’ customer service was also brilliant, with incredibly open and honest communication, with a desire to achieve our needs as a customer at all times.”

 Mechanical Biological Treatment (MBT) facility that treats all of the residual household waste generated in Essex and Southend. To meet the structural design criteria of the contract, a very strong roof profile was required. To ensure fully effective sealing, this had to be a plain sheet without stiffening ribs. The requirement was met by a specially modified Trisobuild® R60 roof profile in a higher strength steel. The modified Trisobuild® R60 solution spans 2.65m. Tata Steel altered its production tooling to manufacture 26,000m2 of the modified R60 roof profile in double-sided Colorcoat HPS200 Ultra®.Colorcoat HPS200 Ultra® was chosen to optimise protection against the corrosive internal environment and external weather side of the bio-stabilisation halls. Super durable Colorcoat HPS200 Ultra® provides exceptional corrosion resistance which has been proven in natural and accelerated testing. Colorcoat HPS200 Ultra® exceeds the requirements of CP15 (as per EN 10169.2010), demonstrating excellent barrier properties when used internally.Images courtesy of UBB (Essex) Construction JV.

Knauf products have been used throughout the redevelopment of Carlton Academy, a secondary school in Nottinghamshire. The school was awarded £2.6m, an investment that allowed them to build ten new classrooms on site to house a wide variety of subjects and service a growing catchment area.

The ChallengeSituated in the Rye Lane conservation area in Peckham, South London, the four to seven storey mixed-use development in Rye Green – comprising 27 residential units laid out across six floors, with two retail units on the ground floor – would provide affordable housing for people in the community who are most in need.The scheme had to consider two elements, the first being the redevelopment of the frontage building (Rye Lane) with the retention of its façade, and the second being the six-storey (with set-back seven-storey) block to the rear, on the site of the existing fish warehouse.The SolutionThe architectural design of this residential development incorporates traditional and modern features with an existing brick façade.PROJECT INFOPRODUCT DETAILThe seven-storey block is rectangular in form and has been built with a striking yellow facingbrick with protruding red brick paneling. The contrast between red and yellow brickwork is exaggerated with the introduction of green glaze facing brickwork at street level. This change in texture and brick finish works well with the local vernacular.The new second and third floor additions are set back from the retained frontage.The design is simple and functional, and the specified fabric responds to the historic character of the conservation area.Three facing bricks from Butterley Brick were selected for the build. Arden Special Reserve, a red, light textured brick, and buff Village Harvest Multi – also light textured – were used as the facing material for the main body of the buildings. Wilncote Blue Smooth, a dark toned brick. was used to define the base of the buildings. The set-back top floor of the seven-storey block is clad in zinc shingles to reflect its roof-like character.The BenefitsThe high quality development, together with its associated external landscaping, has contributed positively to its place in Peckham.Butterley Brick offers a range of high quality facing bricks manufactured from locally sourced raw materials; the range carries BES 6001 Responsible Sourcing certification. The bricks contribute to thermal mass and can be recycled at the end of their use.

This project located in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada uses Longboard® 6” V-Groove in the colours Western Cedar & Light Cherry. Designed by Proscenium Architecture + Interiors in collaboration with our product design department this project utilizes a natural effect algorithm that enables architects and designers to achieve a realistic wood look using two different wood grain colours. The architects at Proscenium utilized this algorithm to create a unique look for the Vancouver, Lawn, Tennis and Badminton Club in order to stay true to their design while taking advantage of the performance and capabilities of Longboard®.

The Westminster Fire Station restoration and regeneration was all about creating an experience for those that live there, with sustainable and natural materials,” says Jennifer Benningfield, experienced architect and founding principal of Openstudio Architects.v “We needed to find a reliable supplier of sustainable and natural materials, which were suitable to tie in with the heritage structure. “The challenge was sourcing the right materials that were compatible with the fabric of the existing buildings. Working with Lime Green, we managed to develop a solution that matched the original building’s beautiful aesthetic and historic character. “As a key supplier of lime-based products, their flexibility and reliability helped to make our job easier – and we received a lot of praise for the high-quality and beautiful new courtyard building. The lime mortar is an integral part of the brickwork and proves that it is appropriate for contemporary, as well as historical, structures,” praises Jennifer. About the project Using a team of specialists, Openstudio Architects supported the site team in using old and traditional construction techniques to refurbish and develop buildings in a contemporary way, with beautiful results. “There were two phases to the Westminster Fire Station project,” explains Jennifer. “The first involved refurbishing the existing building, the Grade II Listed Edwardian Fire Station built in 1906 and decommissioned in 2014, to create a restaurant and bespoke housing. “The second involved developing the site further by adding a new residential building to the rear of the site surrounding a garden courtyard, which is where we used Lime Green’s mortar.” Supporting the local community “The project was situated on a very constrained and challenging site,” continues Jennifer. “With its central location, the construction works undoubtedly had an impact on those living and working in the local area, which is why we wanted to ensure the community were completely happy with the project. “As we wanted to make sure the new build tied in with the older fire station, there were inevitably challenges that we didn’t anticipate along the way. However, most importantly, we needed to ensure we sourced the right materials, which were compatible with the existing building, both in terms of performance and appearance. Selecting the right materials “We wanted to work with natural materials, which would age well and ensure robust construction that has longevity and sustainability,” says Jennifer. “We chose specific products, including handmade Danish bricks and handmade glazed bricks to give depth and texture to the new building. We wanted to ensure use mortar that had a texture and a grain to it, so it would work with the nuances of the bricks, as well as being a colour match. “Finding the right colour mortar to match the pale Danish bricks was key. These bricks were handmade, so we needed the mortar that integrated with the historic Edwardian building to create a seamless whole. “When planning the project, we recognised the importance of lime products, because of the material’s sturdiness and robustness. This means it doesn’t wear with structural movements and changes in the seasons. “That’s why Lime Green was the perfect fit for the project. With an extensive colour range, the team was able to colour-match the mortar with the materials of the new building perfectly. The consistency between the samples Lime Green gave us and the final product delivered was incredible, which was important given the scrutiny by Westminster City Council over the project and the appearance of the new building. “The flexibility of the products also helped us to minimise the amount of movement joints, as it accommodated movement in a much more forgiving way than other products, such as modern cement mortars. “We really enjoyed working with the Lime Green team – they were easy to work with, responsive and very supportive of the project. As we couldn’t store a huge amount of supplies on site, Lime Green was very accommodating in delivering exactly what we needed, at the right time. “The best part was that we were able to develop a solution with Lime Green that supported the original building’s beautiful aesthetic and historic character, with a new building that pays similar attention to detail.” A sustainable, natural and beautiful finish “People love the building, and neighbours even call it ‘the golden citadel’. It’s widely recognised in the local community for its high-quality, beautiful finish,” continues Jennifer. “One of the Fire Station’s previous residents – who had moved out during construction – has moved back after the restoration works and loves the development. That was the icing on the cake for us, it really felt as though our vision had materialised – enhancing people’s experience of new buildings made with sustainable and natural materials that stand the test of time. “The Westminster Fire Station development truly looks beautiful, and the quality of the natural and sustainable products used has a huge role to play in that. Lime Green’s product quality and customer service is outstanding. We’re already working with Lime Green on another project, and we can’t wait to see the finished result,” concludes Jennifer. “It was a pleasure to see our Hydraulic Lime Mortar used on this new development project. We’ve loved working with Openstudio Architects on Westminster Fire Station, and we’re glad to be working with them on their next project,” comments Simon Ayres, co-founder and managing director, Lime Green Products. For more information about the Westminster Fire Station project and the products used, visit Lime Green or call 01952 728 611.

The JACKOBOARD range from BEWI is “ideal” for use as a tile backerboard on projects where increasingly popular underfloor heating systems are being installed, the company says.Made from extruded polystyrene foam (XPS), the construction boards are said to be inherently waterproof because the structure of the board does not allow water to penetrate. They are designed to be easy to work with and cut, as well as truly lightweight.They are finished on both sides with a special coating and reinforced fibreglass mesh, ready to be tiled, rendered or plastered. The boards are said to possess excellent thermal insulation properties, which give them enormous advantages over plasterboard or cement board. They are especially suitable for interior construction, the company says, especially in rooms subject to high moisture levels.According to BEWI, JACKOBOARD goes “beyond bathrooms” and can be used in any room of the house and as a backerboard for virtually any tiling project.The boards are suitable for quickly and effectively levelling uneven walls and floors, for partition walls, compensating for cracks in substrates and for creating substrates for laying tiles on non-adhesive surfaces.JACKOBOARD is also said to provide the best waterproof, insulated, tiling substrate for underfloor heating projects. Whether electric mats or hot water systems are being installed, BEWI says, JACKOBOARD – laid underneath the heating elements or pipework – will help to decrease warm-up times of the system by pushing the heat directly up to the tile layer. In this way, the heat generated by the system is used in the most efficient way, not just during the initial heat-up stage, but in general usage with the continued thermostat-controlled use of the heating system.As builders are forced to reduce the carbon footprint of their projects, the materials they choose to build with can provide a key to unlocking the thermal performance of a building. The XPS foam used on JACKOBOARD products reportedly achieves excellent insulation properties. It’s designed to help maximise the energy efficiency of walls and floors, improving the overall thermal performance of any property.www.bewi.com

Project: Kingsgate Primary SchoolProduct: Shiluvit by Oranit in White Washed Nordic PineArchitect: Maccreanor LavingtonInstaller: Lacunar LtdKingsgate Primary School, London (2018) Photos by Michael Whitestone PhotographySpecification:
Shiluvit 7-501White Washed Nordic Pine
20 x 45mm Blades with 40mm Gaps
Quantity:
1300m2LSA Projects Ltd are delighted to share with you a new award winning Oranit installation at Kingsgate Primary School in London.The £18 million, 5000m2 school has created over 420 new primary school places at the purpose built facility which is comprised of two connected two storey teaching blocks with generous picture windows throughout for an abundance of natural light.The site also has ample external space including running tracks, a science garden, and covered playing spaces in addition to being part of a community development project linking the site to a neighbouring park developed from unused green space in the area.The saw-toothed roof and external appearance of school was designed to reflect its industrial past and the cool tone light brickwork and generous windows bring the design up-to-date with current trends and the requirements of a modern building.Inside the school there is a consistent airy and neutral palette with white walls and ceiling interspersed with pale wood feature walls and stairways in addition to the white washed Nordic Pine Shiluvit panels.Oranit Shiluvit panels were chosen in part for the ceilings of the spaces due to their impressive acoustic power; the configuration chosen which included LSA Black High Density Acoustic mineral wool achieves an overall rating of Class A for acoustic absorption making it perfect for ensuring minimal reverberation across the spaces helping to keep a calm atmosphere.Nordic Pine timber was chosen for its depth of texture as well as its PEFC Certification, the timber was then white washed for a clean and bright appearance.

Oakland Mews is a 21-plot residential development set within the village of Strumpshaw, Norfolk. Based on the site of a former factory, this high-quality development of detached and semi-detached dwellings delivers modern, spacious living, respectfully designed and crafted to the very highest specification using quality materials, including Hampton Rural Blend brick and Cradley Brick Specials, produced by Forterra.Aware of the site’s historic significance and agricultural location, the contractor, Total Build East Anglia Ltd, committed to using traditional materials and building methods that were in keeping with the area and delivered on its vision to bring an appealing and exclusive development to Strumpshaw.Total Build East Anglia Ltd consulted building materials supplier MKM Building Supplies Norwich to help find the appropriate bricks and tiles for the houses. It wanted a traditional red-brick style, which matched the look of a former factory that occupied the site previously and preserved the area’s heritage. Total Build selected the stock-thrown Hampton Rural Blend brick for the facing brick walls. The rustic red brick, tarnished with blackened flashes, perfectly complements the slate grey Cradley Brick Specials copings and cappings, and the dark timber cladding on the properties.Hampton Rural Blend is part of Forterra’s Ecostock range of pressed and thrown bricks manufactured at its Measham factory, which uses ground-breaking technology in sustainability and production efficiency to deliver advanced colour consistency, dimensional accuracy and quality.“An old factory used to be on the site of the development,” said Jason Hilldrup, Brick, Block, Tile and Architectural Masonry Specialist at MKM Norwich. “It was an attractive, traditional red-brick building, directors Andy Brown and Lindsey George of Total Build wanted to ensure the new development was in keeping with what had been there previously.“We reviewed some options together, looking for a brick that looked old and traditional, and they went for the Hampton Rural Blend facing brick and black-slate coloured Cradley Specials copings and cappings. The combination of the two flowed together nicely, and for the price and style, the bricks ticked all their boxes. The bricklayers and cream-coloured mortar choices have been great too. It’s come together really nicely, creating a fantastic site that has modern touches but keeps the traditional style.”

Lukehurst furniture shop required a much-needed facelift to attract local customers and ensure the building was suitable to host the family business for years to come. Working with Apex Façades Ltd and James Hardie, this became a reality. As a well-known fitter of Hardie® products, Apex Facades knew that there was a safe and affordable solution available for this project. Apex worked with the owner of the business, providing our free to order samples to help them decide which product and colour scheme most suited their style and brand. 

The Tate Modern’s Switch House is a new pyramid-shaped tower is built above the former power station’s subterranean oil tanks. The extension, which can be seen as you approach from the north, comprises ten floors that become incrementally smaller towards the top of the tower and culminates in a spectacular public roof terrace. Visitors to the roof are rewarded with 360-degree views of the river Thames, St Paul’s Cathedral and the London skyline, and you can see as far as Tower Bridge, the Old Bailey and Wembley Stadium.Radmat Building Products supplied a waterproofing solution to roof and viewing platform on the newly opened extension.

Cellweb®TRP is a cellular confinement system specifically designed for tree root protection. The system creates a stable, load bearing surface for traffic or footfall whilst eliminating damage to roots through compaction and desiccation. The distinctive cell size, cell depth and cell wall perforations combine to create the tree root protection system.The Cellweb®TRP system comprises of the three specific elements, Cellweb®TRP, Treetex™ pollution control geotextile and an infill of clean angular stone.Features and benefits:Guaranteed cellular confinement system.Independently tested.No dig solution - loads placed upon it are laterally dissipated rather than transferred to the soil and roots below. Prevents sub soil compaction.100% success rate.Continued water permeation and gaseous exchange, ensuring that nutrient supplies to the tree roots are maintained.Prevents surface rutting; optimising long term performance and aesthetics of the final surface.Simple to install.Complies with BS5837:2012, APN 12 and Tree Preservation Order (TPO) guidelines. 

Construction began on a new £350 million state-of-the-art hospital in South Wales in 2017 and has been completed during the global pandemic. The 560-bed hospital provides specialist and critical care treatment for over 600,000 people.Crown House Technologies, part of the O’Rourke Group approached us as they were looking for a reliable local company who could provide quality cost-effective washroom products suitable for a clinical environment which were easy to install.Crown House Technologies contacted our Specifications Manager, Tony Howarth to discuss the project and talk through their requirements. Further meetings took place between our specialists and the client and products were recommended based on the information we obtained ensuring all needs had been addressed. The client expressed an interest in The Dudley Illusion Compact Universal frame and Phantom concealed cistern along with the dimple lever that the less able could use with ease. We provided a sample room including all of the products chosen for demonstration purposes to ensure the client was happy before progressing with the installation.Testimonial“TYDE's product range caters for all budgets and settings. It was ideal having a local supplier who we could rely on and who we could communicate with easily. We were under tight time restraints so it was important the installation was quick and hassle-free. Everything was carried out in a professional manner."

ObjectiveDarren Smith Homes is a family run company spanning four generations of house builders.Their vision when investing in 38 apartments in Newgate, Mirfield was to create truly luxurious homes. Initially focusing on the show apartment they aimed to create a ‘spa at home style’ utilising Bushboard’s Nuance range.Nuance is a unique, award-winning bathroom panelling range that is 100% waterproof, extrusion-free and can be installed in a matter of hours offering a wide choice of stunning designs and textures to create individual interiors. Whether the look is traditional, modern or contemporary, Nuance offers a design that will work for any project.ObservationThe Bushboard specification team thrive on helping contractors and support projects from start to finish, ensuring they are nurtured to a mutually successful conclusion.“Bushboard supported us the whole way, the process went very smoothly and really well. From the super fast sample service to visiting us for a design appointment, and demostrating product installation to our team, Bushboard’s service has been fabulous from beginning to end.”OutcomeTony specified the stunning Soapstone Sequoia from the Nuance range, and to complete the luxury feel selected Ivory Glass solid surface from Bushboard’s unrivalled Zenith collection for the vanity surfaces giving the feeling of sheer indulgence and cool, sophisticated elegance."Both Zenith and Nuance were very straightforward to fit, this was the first time for us installing both ranges and it really surprised us how easy it was, with no hiccups along the way at all. The choice of decors combined, gave an excellent finish and we are thrilled with the result. We will definitely be specifying both products again for the remainder of the development."Bushboard strive to develop aspirational products using unique materials, manufacturing processes and installation techniques to create great design.For more information about the Nuance range and other Bushboard products, to request a RIBA CPD, download an NBS specification or to order samples visit www.bushboard.co.uk

The Best Western Hotel, located in Göttingen, Germany has undergone a major redevelopment of their hotel rooms and washroom facilities. Franke were thrilled to be chosen to provide products from their composite portfolio, including 100 bespoke Miranit Ronda basins. From standard sized washbasins and washtroughs to a bespoke range, Franke's Miranit portfolio provides a choice of unique composite material, with high gloss or solid matte finish. Optional integrated accessories can be incorporated to suit any washroom environment. Unique products can be achieved for any project - perfect for any commercial washroom; hotel, office, school, stadium, retail or leisure environment.

The new build St George’s Quay student accommodation is part of the Luneside East Regeneration Project in Lancaster, which will create a new quarter of the city with a mix of housing, commercial space, high quality open spaces and walking and cycling routes.In a prominent waterfront setting on the edge of the River Lune and built on the site of the former St George’s Mill, the St George’s Quay development comprises four student accommodation blocks, ranging from three to six storeys, delivering 431 bedrooms in clusters and studio apartments.PROJECT INFOThe buildings are modelled around the existing industrial architecture of the site. The client used a mix of materials, including brickwork that reflects the local vernacular and Corten steel cladding to emphasise the site’s industrial history.In addition to the 431 bedrooms, the development also provides a gym, games room, communal dining, study area, and on-site parking.The development aims to be a landmark in urban regeneration and high quality design and be an exemplar of sustainable developments.The brick selected for the scheme is Belgravia Gault Blend, a buff, thrown brick from Forterra’s Ecostock range. It has a rustic finish that resembles a handmade brick. Ecostock bricks are manufactured using the latest technology in sustainability and production efficiency, producing bricks with low embodied energy as well as advanced colour consistency, dimensional accuracy and quality.

Hush Acoustics were tasked with providing a solution to reduce an impact noise issue on the upper floor of a luxury five-bedroom detached home in Knutsford, Cheshire.Home to a professional football player, the issue stemmed from the noise on the flooring of his snooker room. Impact noise from footsteps when using the room was generating nuisance noise within the living area directly below, which was making it difficult for others in the family to enjoy this space.Working with Short Construction, building contractors based in Wilmslow, Hush supplied 167x sheets of our Hush Panel 33 to solve the issue. This is a versatile, high performing acoustic flooring which is widely used in timber construction, making it ideal for the timber separating floors in this property.With a combination of our eco-friendly acoustic felt and our rubber barrier mat, the Hush Panel 33 performs to all UK Building Regulation requirements as well as the Robust Detail performance targets for timber frame developments. Its unique composition makes it easy to install and quick to use.The product works by creating a high mass barrier and isolating the floor finish from the structure. As the nuisance noise issue in this situation was due to impact noise, it was key to introduce a high performing acoustic floor product to break the connection of the floor finish from the structure. This, in turn, improved the impact performance of noise transmission through the floor structure, giving the client the desired effect and enabling him to use the snooker room as intended.

Project Overview: Re-imagination of a first-generation Canary Wharf building. ServiceFull hardware scheduling service. Project Details This clever redesign of YY London by Architects Buckley Gray Yeoman (BGY) centres around the wellbeing of its occupants created by maximising natural light, reducing overall energy demand and choosing materials that support health and well being. The space was reimagined to incorporate a new triple height lobby with feature staircase, floor to ceiling glazing throughout to maximise natural light and the addition of outside terraces on most floors.3v worked in partnership with BGY to develop the perfect Ironmongery scheme to enhance their design aspirations. Scheduled in the aftermath of Covid, the scheme included a full hardware scheduling service incorporating the use of a biocote anti bacterial finish in high traffic areas on all tangible stainless steel products such as pull handles and push plates. ‘Chris and the 3v team were a pleasure to work with and proactive in helping us adapt the ironmongery package in response to the pandemic. We’re really pleased how seamlessly the ironmongery has been integrated into the joinery finishes and look forward to continuing our collaboration on future projects.’Adam Whitlock Wood, BGYOur ironmongery is often the first physical product visitors interact with in their journey through a space, it is important that it looks good, feels right and functions correctly to fulfil the user experience and the architects design intent. Our simple 250 and 234 pull handles add an elegant finishing touch to this inspiring and vibrant space.An outstanding project to be involved with.Photography: Neil Kenyon

Project description: 8 skylights - Repair and Re-glaze in Georgian wired obscured glass.The units were in an awful condition as you can see from the pictures, showing extensive rot. All of them were stripped back to bare wood, the putty removed and glazing taken out. We then used a Sadolin Super Dec in white to bring in the parts under the window and replaced the hooked with more tradition lead ones.  Once puttied, we removed the tape as to give it the best possible line before it dried (Timbabglaze is normally paintable after just 1 hour). Once dry we re-masked and used a Dulux UK weathershield system. This was a supergrip primer, oil based Dulux weathershield under coat and finally 2 top coats of Dulux weathershield gloss. The tape was removed and you have the finished product for the first 6 windows.The last 2 windows proved to be a problem. They had been re glazed previously but had been done very badly. The wood was rotten and had to be repaired. After struggling to get the glass out as it had been silliconed in... We used Timbabuild products again. To start with we raked out all the rotten wood back to a hardish part. We then used a Timbabuild 2 part EWS wood primer to give the wood some structure and a base for the next part. Once the EWS had gone off we applied Timbabuild EHB60 epoxy repair. This was left over night (as it was applied last thing in the day) and sanded back to an edge the following day. We then used the Timbabuild ERC10 Rapid curing epoxy adhesive over the top to fill any gaps that needed it. Then a surface layer of 2 part Timbabuild FINISH. They were sanded using a 180 grit paper and received the same paint system as the other 6 windows. The glass was replaced as well as the hooks and the finished results speak for themselves. 

SubFloor flooring was used to help renovate, raise and ventilate a 700 m² floor into a Nursery near Gothenburg, Sweden.The Subfloor ventilation system was ideal for this nursery, as it allowed for multiple floor height adjustments and for ventilation installations under the floor. Associated floor ventilation material such as ducts, air distribution strips, fans, etc. was also provided. The negative pressure the ventilation generates under the floor creates a fresh and healthy indoor environment.This simple and elegant solution raised and levelled the floor to allow for installations and insulation. The joist and screw system allows for quick and easy assembly so that the floor can reach the desired height.Products:Steel Joist 45x30x3800 mmSubFloor Screw 100 mmInsulation Bearer 45 mmHeight Variation: 46 - 100 mmJoist separation: c/c 600 mmSystem Weight - c/c 600 mm: 2.06 kg/m²Materials:Steel, Z100 GalvFibre-reinforced polypropylenePoint Load Limit (50 x 50 mm): Between screws over joist - 7.08 kNOver screws over joist - 8.78 kN

Orbis OS200 Vertical Bar Infill Side FixOrbis OS211 Glass Infill Top FixProviding more than 120,000 sq ft, of innovation space for high growth enterprises, this project is situated within Imperial College London’s White City campus. Built by a market leader with specialist expertise in modular buildings, this project demanded a high level of innovation, and a balustrade supplier that delivered on cost, quality, and timescales. The main reception area is dominated by a large feature stair providing access to all floors, and the Orbis balustrades with glass infill achieve a stunning first impression and allow maximum light through the space from the vast glazed roof lights above. Throughout the three core stairs, which are used for general circulation and escape routes, the vertical bar infill panels within the Orbis balustrade was used. This robust modular panel solution is pre-manufactured to speed up installation on site, which was extremely important to the main contractor. Individual stair cores were not closed for extended periods of time, which means greater productivity, less management time, and reduced risk for the main contractor.

Located in the heart of the vast new Wembley Park regeneration project, the two residential buildings that make up the Landsby East and Landsby West development (Danish for village) are contemporary in design, with apartment interiors that continue the Scandinavian theme. Externally there are roof terraces and first floor level podium gardens, along with 280 generous balconies that add a stylish and aesthetic feel to the exterior finish of the building.A key element of the balconies was the installation of Isokorb® T structural break units from Schöck. The Schöck Isokorb® T units are structural, but their other long-term purpose is to minimise the risk of thermal bridging. Ineffective insulation at the connection points means local heat loss, resulting in more energy being required to maintain the internal temperature of the building. This is a major consequence of thermal bridging, but there are other issues too. Low internal surface temperatures in the area of the thermal bridge can cause condensation, which leads not only to structural integrity problems with absorbent materials such as insulation products or plasterboard, but the potentially serious occurrence of mould growth. So for any project involving balcony connectivity the prevention of thermal bridging is a critical issue.

Kielder Observatory Surespan designed and manufactured two sets of bespoke double leaf hatch doors for the Kielder Observatory located in England’s largest forest in Northumberland.  The ProjectAs part of the Kielder Art and Architecture program, Charles Barclay Architects designed Kielder Observatory for the Forestry Commission. The all-timber observatory was constructed from Douglas fir with larch cladding, the pier-like building has rotating turrets that house two permanent telescopes and an observation deck. The turrets can be rotated through 360 degrees.The observatory generates its energy using a wind turbine and photovoltaic panels and includes a composting toilet. The observatory has received 2009 awards from the RIBA and The Civic Trust and featured in the inaugural World Architecture Festival.  The ProductSurespan design and manufactured two sets of bespoke double leaf hatch doors for the roof and the front of the Observatory’s two rotating turrets – one to house a 20” Pulsar manual telescope and the other for a small Mead 14” telescope.  FeaturesThese hatches are electrically operated and have been specially designed to open in a specific sequence using remote control via 24v dc actuators.      

IntroductionSurespan design and manufactured two sets of bespoke double leaf hatch doors for the Kielder Observatory located in England’s largest forest in Northumberland. Products suppliedWe supplied;Surespan designed and manufactured two sets of bespoke double leaf hatch doors for the roof and the front of the Observatory’s two rotating turrets – one to house a 20” Pulsar manual telescope and the other for a small Mead 14” telescope. Features:These hatches are electrically operated and have been specially designed to open in a specific sequence using remote control via 24v dc actuators.The projectAs part of the Kielder Art and Architecture program, Charles Barclay Architects designed Kielder Observatory for the Forestry Commission.The all-timber observatory was constructed from Douglas fir with larch cladding, the pier-like building has rotating turrets that house two permanent telescopes and an observation deck. The turrets can be rotated through 360 degrees.The observatory generates its energy using a wind turbine and photovoltaic panels and includes a composting toilet.The observatory has received 2009 awards from the RIBA and The Civic Trust and featured in the inaugural World Architecture Festival.

Date of Project: August - September 2014Project Owner: Occidental PetroleumProject Contractor: Hugh Roberts ConstructionMarket/Environment: Oil ProductionSubstrate: Gunite from the 1960sProduct Used: Five Star Structural Concrete V/0®Project Size: 500+ PailsProject DetailsIn 1965, four artificial islands were built in San Pedro Bay off the coast of Long Island to conceal oil pumping stations. In the year 2000, Occidental Petroleum purchased the islands, known as THUMS Islands or Astronaut Islands, and operations. The islands contain significant landscaping, a waterfall, and tall structures concealing the drilling rigs, including one known as The Condo and often mistaken for "a ritz hotel" by those on land. Island Grissom is the closest to land and contains more sculptured screens than the other islands.The ChallengeOver the years, wind and water have taken their toll on the concrete structures around the island, causing a great deal of deterioration. A few obstacles to overcome were:The depth of repair (Tapcons were driven into the substrate for added reinforcement in the deeper areas of repair)Direct sun/heatHeight of repair was as high as 100 feetLimitations on water saturation for presoak and wet cure.Deliveries had to be scheduled precisely as all products had to be shuttled over to the island via ferry.Five Star® SolutionChosen for this demanding repair project was Five Star Structural Concrete® W/O because of its rapid-setting properties and ability to be used on vertical and overhead surfaces. Moisture-sensitive coatings could also be applied in 8 to 24 hours, speeding up repair time.This high-strength, permanent concrete repair material allowed the workers to make repairs quickly and efficiently, using only one product for thin and thick placement.