"generators"

Challenge:For the first phase of 80 retail units, Phoenix Brickwork required IG’s bespoke arch lintels accommodating a range of opening spans between 910mm to 6000mm for ground and first floor shopfront door and window openings.Solution:IG’s technical team worked closely with Phoenix Brickwork and developed a one-piece lintel design solution taking into consideration loading conditions for each application.All special lintels were delivered to site as part of the project build schedule and helped to achieve the desired façade complementing both the fascia and canopy design. The welcoming shop fronts are sympathetic to building and have helped contribute to an attractive retail and leisure development.The 30,000m2 of retail space built over two phases will eventually consist of 125 retail units, generate 1,200+ additional jobs and create a new retail destination for the region with the aim to attract over 39 million tourists a year.

Project DescriptionThe new £5.5m state-of-the-art Beacon building was created as part of a £40m investment in Staffordshire University’s City campus in Stoke-on-Trent. A three storey, metal-clad building, it features innovative learning and social spaces. These include 12 timetabled teaching areas and general teaching rooms, flexible, multi-sized space for lectures, IT labs, seminar spaces, and The Pavilion Café which offers a street-food style menu.Specific Project ChallengesMaintaining the critical system interface details from the SFSinstaller to the rainscreen cladding installer.Ensuring colour continuity from one anodised aluminimum batch to another.Unique project featuresA bespoke natural anodised plank system, designed to seamlessly facilitate linear vertical modules.New anodising finishing techniques, featuring etched, brushed and polished finishes.A fully designed and warrantied through–wall solution from a single manufacturer.

One of the fastest-growing aerospace companies, EnduroSat, has collaborated with ESCREO to transform the casual and boring walls into writable ones with whiteboard paint. For them, as for every fast-growing company, it is very important to incorporate all the new technology in the office environment. They have an innovative approach not just to the pure business side but also to the premises where the space magic happens. Everyone can write down a new idea the moment it comes to their mind. This is the magic of ESCREO and ESCREO writable walls. The generation of ideas is more facilitated than ever but even more is the presentation of those ideas to all concerned parties. Efficiency is improved and the workflow becomes much smoother.EnduroSat shared with ESCREO how having writable walls all over the office is helping them to fulfil their mission. You can read the full interview to also learn what they have to say about their choices, thoughts and future.

Ward Firth 9 at The Northern General Hospital underwent a complete refurbishment as part of an essential maintenance project recently which included redecoration and new flooring as well as the installation of Yeoman Shield Wall Protection Panels and Guardian Handrail.After the work was completed the ward lookedsmart and refreshed which left the originalNurses Station lack lustre, as pictured to the left.Yeoman Shield were able to offer a solution to theworn work-unit with the application, to the sidesof the desk, of 2.0mm thick FalmouthEx protectionpanels in light grey to match the surrounding décor.The tops of the work stations were covered withYeoman Shield Satin Pastel Smooth panels in thecolour Clay.Not only did the covering of the nurse’s stationwith Yeoman Shield products reflect the newsmart décor of the wards but also gave them anextra lease of life with a durable impact resistantand easy to clean hygienic finish.

Awel-y-Mor Primary SchoolBauder Thermofol PVC single ply waterproofing systemSynopsis The Awel-y-Mor Primary School site, situated at the heart of the town of Port Talbot in Wales, needed to undergo major redevelopment in preparation for its brand new fit for purpose school to replace the two pre-existing primary schools, which had experienced serious build repair and surplus capacity issues.Bauder Building BoardProject:Awel-y-Mor Primary SchoolLocation:Port TalbotProject type:New buildPV roof area:300m²Investor:Neath Port Talbot County Borough CouncilMain contractor:Dawnus Construction LtdRoofing contractor:Span Roofing Contractors LtdThe specifcationThe Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council wanted the new school to be fitting for the 21st century and bring them to the forefront of modern-day roofing technology. These requirements were met by BauderSOLAR’s innovative photovoltaic system, which delivers significant cost and environmental benefits, as well as providing an eye-catching visual reminder of the importance of sustainability.Roof areas totalling 300m² were fitted with 92 PV modules, which were secured to Bauder’s Thermofol Single Ply waterproofing, enabling the new Awel-y-Mor school to generate at least 25.9 Megawatt Hours of solar power each year. The incredible simplicity of the installation also meant that the entire PV array could be installed in just three days ensuring that there was no disruption to the commencing school term.Products appliedBauder Thermofol PVCSingle Ply System offering a lightweight and cost effective waterproofing solution that is resilient to the natural elements.BauderSOLAR SOLfixxPhotovoltaic system is an innovative renewable energy source that is secured to the roof without any penetration of the waterproofing or roof deck. 92 PV modules were installed with an expected energy generation of 25.9 MWh and with a kWp of 27.14.The resultRoof areas totalling 300m² were fitted with 92 PV modules, which were secured to Bauder’s Thermofol Single Ply waterproofing, enabling the new Awel-y-Mor school to generate at least 25.9 Megawatt Hours of solar power each year. The incredible simplicity of the installation also meant that the entire PV array could be installed in just three days ensuring that there was no disruption to the commencing school term.System installedBauder Thermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system1 Bauder Thermofol U15 FRA 1.5mm thick, reinforced PVC waterproofing membrane. Stated within BBA certificate 06/4354, the Thermofol PVC waterproofing membranes have a service life in excess of 35 years. 2 Bauder PIR MTissue-faced flat board insulation, benefitting from a zero ODP and a Green guide rating of ‘A’.3 BauderTEC KSDA self-adhesive elastomeric bitumen air and vapour control layer with an aluminium foil facing for vapour impermeability AdvocacyJonathan Morris, lead architect for the project, stated:“Our local Bauder representative offered the highest degree of service throughout the project, ensuring our site operation ran smoothly. With the complete roof finish covered by the all-encompassing Bauder guarantee we have peace of mind moving forward with regards to potential future defects.”

A Cupper Press was recently installed in a new can making factory in Europe, which was built near to commercial and office buildings in the surrounding area. Following recommendations from a consultancy specialising in vibration and structural dynamics, the Cupper Press was installed on top of an inertia block supported by spring elements and visco-dampers, offering a system natural frequency of 1.25 Hz. However, high movements were reported on the machines Spring Foundation during production and as a result the vibrations were emitting outwards to the neighboring buildings.The impact of this movement was premature wear on the machine and increased spoilage, reducing the overall productivity of the plant. The ChallengeFarrat were contacted to provide a replacement solution that would reduce the excessive movement of the Cupper Press and create a quieter environment for the neighbouring buildings. Cupper Presses are commonly used in can manufacturing to produce cylindrical cups from rolls of aluminium or metal. The primary action of this type of machine is to punch discs from sheets at high speeds. This action generates vertical excitations at frequencies determined by the speed of the machine, also known as ‘shocks’.  These heavy vibrations have damaging effects on the functionality of the machine installation, its systems and components, and the machines overall productivity. Shock induced vibrations can also damage the building by generating waves and noises that propagate out into the environment. It is therefore crucial to ensure that Cupper Presses are installed on suitable vibration control systems to mitigate against these effects. The primary element of this challenge was to stiffen the overall system, while preventing excessive vibrations being transmitted around. The SolutionFarrat’s application engineers considered several system criteria during the design phase, such as the mass, dimensions, and operating speed of the machine, as well as system stability and the isolation performance required to meet the clients challenging requirements.To resolve both of the clients issues, Farrat engineered a replacement vibration isolation system configured with bespoke bearings made of a steel base and 2 layers of Isomat isolators.Learn more about the material properties of Farrat Isomat here.Performance Results A vibration investigation was conducted by Farrat to measure the level of vibration emitted before and after replacement of the spring packs, to assess the efficiency of the Farrat Isomat System. The results of the survey are presented in the adjacent plot, showing the vertical accelerations measured before replacement with the blue curves, and after installation of the Farrat Isomat Bearing with the orange curves.Vibrations measured at the feet of the machine are shown on top, on the inertia block in the middle, and on the surrounding factory floor at the bottom. The results were observed at all measured operational machine speeds, between 110 and 170 RPM.  A significant vibration reduction can be seen in each part of the system, particularly at the operational speed of the Cupper Press at slightly below 2 Hz. This is the frequency where the machine is most likely to be moving & rocking, impacting the process quality. The pre-existing system of springs with visco-dampers has proven unsuitable because of its extremely low natural frequency, which is excessively close to the disturbing frequencies generated by the Cupper Press – increasing the risk of resonance issues. ConclusionThe client’s requirements have been met by the Farrat Isolated Foundation solution, which has significantly lowered the movements of the machine while maintaining a quiet environment for nearby buildings. This demonstrates the efficiency of Farrat Isomat systems for Cupper Press machine applications, where bespoke design solutions are needed to solve complex engineering challenges.#onamission

The town of Saint-Siméon-de-Bressieux in the Département Isère is about 40 km away from Grenoble and has a little over 3,000 inhabitants. Among its points of interest is the former Girodon silk weavers’ school from 1873, which remains as a monument to early industrial culture. Today, the town is home to the Collège Marcel Mariotte, which provides adolescents with an education up to middle-school level. The sports field of the school was renovated in 2022 and the football pitch fitted with Polytan LigaTurf Cross, our filled synthetic turf that combines smooth and textured filaments. The benefits of both turf types come together in an ideal surface that can be used for various kinds of ball sports; in Bressieux, it will first and foremost be used for football during PE lessons.Unusually, the pitch has neither the standard football pitch dimensions of 105 x 68 metres, nor is it a mini-pitch. The reason for this is that the available plot did not allow for a bigger pitch, so the developers and pitch designers had to come up with a special solution. At the same time, there were the needs of middle-school students to take into account. By the way, our LigaTurf Cross is now available in various environmentally friendly variants, such as LigaTurf Cross R, which contains recycled materials, and LigaTurf Cross GT zero, the world’s first carbon-neutral synthetic football turf to be made from sustainable, organic PE raw material based on otherwise non-reusable sugar cane. Our flagship in terms of sustainability and future viability is the LigaTurf Cross GTR, which now contains recycled material in addition to renewable raw materials.However, the size of the pitch is not the only special feature of the sports facility at the Collège Marcel Mariotte. The running circuit around the pitch is also highly unusual in its design. Of its three circular lanes, not only do five branch off towards the long jump facility further out, but there is also an integrated sprint track – two solutions that offer maximum flexibility and versatility when it comes to the variety of sports that can be practised in such a limited space. What is most peculiar about it is the shape of the running circuit, because it is not actually round, as one would expect. It too has been shortened along the two opposing straights and its curves do not follow a circular arc, but each have an additional inward curve at the ends. This not only gives the entire sports facility an usual appearance, but a playful feel, thanks to the organic, almost flowing lines. One thing is certain: the runners won’t get bored in Bressieux, even during longer runs. And this example shows that there are alternatives to conventional solutions that generate interest and encourage participation.For the surface of the track, the developer and pitch designer opted for our tried and true PolyPlay S surface. The granulated, two-layered all-rounder is the perfect solution for school sports in general and various leisure activities. Its smooth surface is the ideal substrate for a multitude of outdoor uses. Since PolyPlay S is water-permeable, the surface dries quickly and can be used all year round. Another benefit of the low-maintenance surface is its slip resistance and high wear resistance. Given that PolyPlay S is generally installed flat over a base layer, the construction method ensures consistently good values for damping and deformation. Bressieux opted for Polytan PolyPlay S in the colour Hertha blue, an intense colour tone that further accentuates the unusual shape of the track.

Beckfoot Allerton opened on 19th November 1894, a proud day for the village of Allerton and its people. The school underwent many changes throughout the years surviving and contributing to both war efforts, while continuing to hold their high standards of education. In 1928 the school official became a primary school and later in 1960 a junior and infants’ school further undergoing changes. After a local authority change in 2000 Beckfoot Allerton Primary school was reborn. In the present day the school is much different to when it was opened generations ago and continues to serve as a corner stone of the village and its community.Taking into consideration all of the requirements of the roof, a bespoke specification was prepared to refurbish the roof. Polyroof’s Protec System, a hybrid polymer liquid system with extremely fast curing and installation times, was the chosen system of use for the project. Due to its fully cold-applied application the works could be carried out during the Primary Schools term times, without having to wait for closure periods between terms.

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

The ChallengeThe Greenwich Village scheme completes the masterplan for the Greenwich Millennium Village development, generating a complex and picturesque arrangement of buildings defined by streets and squares and providing 1,746 homes. The build had to provide a complementary interpretation of an earlier build designed during the 1990s. The largest regeneration project of its kind in London, the challenge was to achieve a holistic, long-term scheme.The SolutionWith a strong focus on street life, the project concept incorporated a mixture of townhouses and apartments in lower-rise buildings of between three and five storeys.Traditional street patterns with narrow mews ensured compatibility with the design of the previous phases but also allowed for some individuality in the new phase. The project strategy centred on the technical and acoustic challenges of the project whilst also recognising the need to provide a sustainable environment.The BenefitsThe build achieved the required density while in keeping with the character of the Village. Forterra’s Dark Moroccan Smooth Butterley Brick was used to provide the desired aesthetics and subtleness for the build whilst also establishing its own identity.

Republic is a new campus at East India Docks: the design is centred around well-being at work with a focus on daylight and ventilation, direct connections with nature through the planting in the biodiverse central gardensThe first phase commenced in October 2016 and the public realm was completed towards the end of 2018The campus will ultimately provide 650,000 sq ft of high-quality affordable workplace, a wide range of amenities, generous public realm and extensive green spaces.BLOC sun bench can be used on its own or joined in rows and back to back. It is also available with a short seat.VROOM bench is a modular furniture system that can be extended in endless combinations. The bench comes in two widths, with or without a backrest and armrests. Straight, angled and curved connection elements mean that the seats can be joined to create long benches, formations, large and small circles, and letters.All furniture in RAL 1018Client: Trilogy Property and LaSalle Investment ManagementArchitect: Studio RHELandscape architect: Remapp Landscape Architects

Creating better education environments Primary School De Verwondering is a fully bio-based school building and the first example of a new generation of bio-based school buildings that recognizes and harnesses nature's powerful effcet on learning.The beautiful wooden building - which runs on circular energy - has a vegetation roof with chickens, green facades and remarkably large windows. The primary school recently won the 2021 Golden Frog award for sustainable construction in the Netherlands.The interior and exterior of the school have a positive influence on the well-being and performance of the pupils. The environment outside blends with the natural elements of the building, such as wood and bamboo, while inside the interior architect chose a CO2 neutral (cradle to gate) Marmoleum floor covering. Marmoleum Cocoa is made of natural and renewable raw materials with the addition of a waste product from the cocoa industry and, in that respect, it fits the building perfectly. Marmoleum is one of the flooring industry's most beautiful and also oldest bio-based products.

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.

Following the current trend for basement installations our client had an interesting twist; a large underground area was to be created under the rear garden. Designed to house the client’s beautiful motor cars, there was still plenty of room to include an opulent, huge swimming pool and generously sized sauna and steam room with shower between. Both rooms were designed with a U shaped, emphasising the great social occasion of heat bathing with clear glass fascias providing a wide view of the pool and client’s stunning décor including a feature faux-living wall.Sauna: Warm Alder panelling was chosen for the sauna with a hidden heater to have clean lines and ensure absolute safety for young ones.Steam Room: The matching steam room was lined in beautiful pearl green mosaics to echo the pool finish.Yet another angle on how to introduce a wellness feature at home, all beautifully presented and a project in which Sauna360 were proud to play our part!

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.

Fresh Wharf is a multi-phase brownfield project which transforms the wharf on the river Roding. The project includes a demolition of the old industrial estate and construction of 911 one and two bedroom apartments in a range of tenures, flexible commercial spaces, generous landscaping, a new riverside walk and new infrastructure, along with parking concealed below podium gardens. Buildings ranging from 3 to 14 storeys are surrounded by cafes, shops, and restaurants, it is 15 minutes from Barking station, with access to the underground, overground and rail connections into central London. Cellecta’s YELOfon HD10+ was specified by Frank Reynolds 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.Countryside Properties UK was awarded this 40,000m² contract for this development in Barking.

Clapham ParkBauder Total Green Roof System (BTGRS) with BauderSOLAR G LIGHTSynopsisThe regeneration at Clapham Park involved the demolition of old housing stock to make way for new affordable homes. The 5-storey building with 21 dwellings incorporating the latest rooftop technology which blends a biodiverse green roof and unified solar PV array. This approach met the planning requirements and maximised the limited roof space to generate energy for the residents. The development was certified BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ due to its environmental, economic and social sustainability attributes.Bauder Building BoardProject:Clapham ParkLocation:Clapham Park, Lambeth, LondonRoof Area:500m² green roof layered with 116m² of PVSpecifier:PJMA Architects​Approved Contractor:EJ Roberts Ltd​PV Installer:M & M Electrical LtdThe specification The BauderSOLAR G LIGHT system has National House Building Control (NHBC) approval and meets local authority building control (LABC) requirements. The system was installed on zero falls roof deck, making it a very cost-effective solution.The biodiverse green roof which includes 35 plant species recognised by the RHS as Perfect for Pollinators, covers the totality of the roof area and offers a large variety of vegetation. The building reduces its carbon impact with the highly efficient PIR insulation and generates approximatively 10% of the flats usage with a maximum possible output of 75kWp from the 70 PV modules. The solar PV mounting units are ballasted by the substrate and vegetation, removing the need for any penetrating products in the waterproofing.Products appliedBauder Total Green Roof SystemThis system features a reinforced bituminous waterproofing system offering a service life expectancy in excess of 40 years.BauderSOLAR G LIGHTThe integration of a green roof and photovoltaics into one system drawing the maximum potential from a flat roof.BauderGREEN Flora Seed MixesA blend of 49 British native species seed, to maximise diversity of vegetation on green roofs.Project challengesOne of the major challenges of the project was the roof area, which at only 500m² needed to include a green roof and a renewable energy system to meet the main objectives of sustainability and energy efficiency of the development highlighted by the planning committee. The roof contributed towards requirements under National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) Chapter 11: Conserving and enhancing the natural environment and The London Plan 2011 Policy 5.2 – Minimising Carbon Dioxide Emissions, Policy 5.3 – Sustainable Design and Construction and Policy 5.7 – Renewable Energy. The green roof is layered with a raised PV array so that the entire roof qualifies as a green roof whilst also providing energy generation.System installedBauder Total Green Roof System (BTGRS)1 BauderPLANT EA torch-applied, root resistant capping sheet. The product features chemically treated bitumen to deliver superior root resistance which has been tested and approved by the FLL. The membrane is reinforced with 250g/m² spunbond polyester fleece to allow the finished product to cope with structural movement without fracture.2 BauderTEC KSA DUOA self-adhesive bitumen underlayer with “DUO” lap technology to ensure thorough sealing of lap joints, even in lower temperatures. 3 BauderPIR FA-TEFlatboard insulation used on the lantern roof area to help meet its U-value of 0.15W/m²K. 4 BauderTEC KSD FBSA self-adhesive SBS elastomeric bitumen air & vapour control layer, with a mica finished upper surface to allow easy bonding of insulation using the specified Bauder insulation adhesive.

ChallengeTo insulate one of Marks and Spencer’s most carbon efficient premier stores with a holistic approach taken towards key sustainability factors such as water, carbon, biodiversity, the community, materials and waste to landfill.SolutionKnauf Insulation’s FactoryClad Roll 40 was utilised within the 11,000m2 multi-wave form standing seam roof, which was supplied by Euroclad to achieve an outstanding visual, functional and environmentally friendly element of the store design, plus achieving a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating. The number of BREEAM credits available from using Knauf Insulation’s Factory Clad Roll 40, played a part in its specification for Marks and Spencer’s flagship sustainable retail store at Cheshire Oaks.Gethin Williams, Euroclad’s Elite Systems Coordinator said: “FactoryClad Roll 40, in 280mm, has a 90/90 lambda value, a generic BRE Green Guide rating of A+ and has excellent thermal and acoustic properties. Thanks to these many characteristics, we thought it was perfect for this project, which resulted in it achieving the relevant BREEAM credits. Being lightweight, flexible and with a high tear strength, fitting was fast and error free, ensuring the thermal integrity was uncompromised.”Knauf Insulation’s FactoryClad Roll 40 is manufactured with ECOSE® Technology, has a thermal conductivity of 0.040W/mK and also has the highest possible Euroclass A1 reaction to fire classification when tested in accordance with BS EN 13501-1.In addition to this, Knauf Insulation’s mineral wool products with ECOSE Technology benefit from a revolutionary, bio-based, formaldehyde-free binder technology, based on rapidly renewable materials, instead of petro-based chemicals – delivering superior environmental sustainability and enhancing the environmental credentials without affecting the thermal, acoustic or fire performance. What’s more Knauf Insulation FactoryClad Roll 40 represents no known threat to the environment and has zero Ozone Depletion Potential and zero Global Warming Potential."Knauf Insulation FactoryClad Roll 40, in 280mm, has a 90/90 lambda value, a generic BRE Green Guide rating of A+ and has excellent thermal and acoustic properties. Thanks to these many characteristics, we thought it was perfect for this project, which resulted in it achieving the relevant BREEAM credits. Being lightweight, flexible and with a high tear strength, fitting was fast and error free, ensuring the thermal integrity was uncompromised."- Gethin Williams, Euroclad’s Elite Systems Coordinator

Resilient, flexible and reliable lift solutions enable logistics services in ZurichIn 2018, Welti-Furrer approached Lödige Industries to install three OLYMPUS heavy goods lifts at their newly build logistics facility in Dielsdorf near Zurich. Logistics service providers and transportation companies are two important service providers across the globe. They ensure that all goods are always reliably and safely in the right place at the right time. Welti-Furrer has been on the road since 1838. As one of the oldest transport companies, Welti-Furrer relies on over 180 years of experience and is therefore very familiar with the central challenges and requirements of lift solutions.Long-term advantages with resilient lift solutionsForklift drivers in logistics centres work highly efficient and at a fast pace. Therefore, it is not possible to completely avoid damage to the facility equipment. However, a large part of the damage can be avoided through intelligent planning of the lift solution. One of the main reasons why Welti-Furrer decided for lift solutions from Lödige Industries is the generic strong resilience of the OLYMPUS heavy goods lift.In addition, other aspects of the lift design were optimised in order to further increase the robustness of the lifts. The wall soffits in the prefabricated concrete shafts were intentionally built smaller than the clear cabin width, thus protecting the whole cabin floor from damage. The outer trays are offset inwards so that they are protected from damage by forklift trucks or similar.Flexible use thanks to integrated card reading systemNext to the resilience of the installed heavy goods lifts, the local service team from Lödige Industries ensures high reliability at any time.Furthermore, in order to maintain the highest flexibility standards, the installed OLYMPUS heavy goods lifts were equipped with an internal card reading system. This functionality allows Welti-Furrer to define individual access rights for their employees.SolutionWelti-Furrer decided for lift solutions from Lödige Industries because of the generic strong resilience of the OLYMPUS heavy goods lift.Several aspects of the lift design, such as the wall soffits and outer trays were optimised in order to further increase the robustness of the lifts.The local service team from Lödige Industries ensures high reliability at any time.The integrated card reading system allows Welti Furrer to define flexibly use the goods lifts.

Mirrors from the wide range of stainless steel products offered by GEC Anderson have been included within a striking new facility developed for the young people of East Manchester, enhancing both the aesthetics and the safe operation of the building. The £6.6milion HideOut Youth Zone, built by Domis Construction on the old Gorston baths site in the Hyde district of the city, is based upon the successful OnSide Youth Zones 21st Century Youth Facility Model. The development of the centre, which is expected to attract some 1,600 young people each week, was supported by local philanthropist, Fred Done, and Manchester City Council.  In total, 16 of the 1000 x 500 mm highly polished, 1mm thick stainless steel mirrors were supplied for both the general and accessible washroom areas. Widely used in public toilets and sports facilities, the mirrors’ tough, unbreakable nature will both enhance long term maintenance implications and negate the injury risk presented by glass alternatives. Lisa McFarlane, a Director at the Manchester based lead consultants, Seven Architecture, commented: “We were keen to design a truly iconic building for the young people of East Manchester; to give them a real sense of pride and ownership. It’s fantastic to see so much support for the scheme. This is the second Youth Zone we have been involved in designing in the region, with another due to get under way soon in Warrington.  With this being a design and build project, the final specification lies with the main contractor, but stainless steel was preferred for the mirrors as a health and safety consideration, basically being a robust but attractive material.”Since its formation in 1962, GEC Anderson has built its reputation for the supply of top end stainless steel sinks and sanitaryware on a combination of innovative design, top quality materials and expert craftsmanship. In addition to the company’s Decimetric system of cabinets, sinks, drainers and other equipment - widely specified for sectors including health and catering - the company’s custom engineered solutions have been selected for some of the country’s top sports, entertainment and leisure destinations. Adam Farricker, Chief Executive of HideOut Youth Zone expressed his enthusiasm for the outcome saying: “A huge thank you to all of HideOut’s supporters for believing in this charity and for having the vision and determination to make it happen for Manchester’s young people. Their generous support will make a huge difference to the lives of young people and the wider community in East Manchester.”

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.”

Hush Acoustics provided a solution to reverberation issues at the newly extended Queen Elizabeth Hall in the village of Layer de la Haye near Colchester.The hall was designed to be used as a multi-functional amenity for local residents and the general public and is host to anything from Scouts groups to wedding receptions. It was therefore imperative that the acoustics within the building were to a good level to be able to comfortably make use of the hall for all the varying activities.As in many domestic and public places, reverberation and in severe cases, echoes, had become a problem in with mid to high frequency sounds (in most cases) of speech causing disruptive and discomforting noise problems.After an initial inspection, Hush Acoustics proposed the installation of 30x Hush Absorber 50A panels. This Class A sound absorber has built in support frames to allow for bracket fixing to provide an air void behind the absorber for enhanced acoustic performance. The absorber panels were fitted over two days which meant the work had minimal impact to the running of the community activities.The client’s feedback was that the acoustics in the hall after installation “are perfect”.

This scheme was based around a prestigious new commercial office development which included a public realm space. The goal was to create an attractive outdoor space that would provide a relaxing outdoor environment for workers and serve as a communal space that the general public could also utilise. By diligently selecting a range of design led external furniture items from Artform Urban Furniture, the completed project has resulted in a sophisticated and popular external space that enhances the local area and will be enjoyed by a wide variety of people for many years to come.The Box Litter Bin is a popular option from Artform due to its flexible design options. The main structure is manufactured from a robust 6mm thick sheet with various options for the door finish. From the most popular timber-clad versions to Steel rods, and solid or laser-cut steel plate. For Wellington Place, the solid steel door with integrated ashtray was chosen with the addition of customised decals that coordinate with the area's recognisable branding. The design is simple and robust making it perfect in a whole host of external spaces. 

Long house is a modern interpretation of a Derbyshire Dales longhouse and houses three generations of their respective families. It was built to Passivhaus standards and to have minimal visual impact on its rural surroundings and featured in a September episode of Channel 4’s Grand Designs. On the ground floor, a combination of floor-to-ceiling windows and a completely open-plan layout fills the house with sunlight and creates a feeling of space and tranquillity. A shared sitting room for Sarah and Mike’s mothers is known as the ‘lady chapel’ and its oversized windows provide spectacular views across the valley.Energy efficiency, thermal performance and sustainability are all key when building to Passivhaus standards. The couple were also keen to meet the Royal Institute of British Architects 2030 Challenge targets for operational energy use, water usage and embodied carbon. Durability and security were also priorities.‘The windows are the stars of the show. The whole house feels full of light and life. The views are spectacular and in every room we feel part of the landscape, but without having to put a jumper on!’

 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.

Having purchased a beautiful plot in the Sussex Countryside, our client designed a luxury basement health suite with spectacular lighting effects. Sauna360 UK was invited to provide a specially designed bespoke sauna and steam room to complete this home spa.Bespoke Sauna: Our client came to us with a design idea for a modern, sleek sauna interior that did not use traditional horizontal or vertical wall panelling. Sauna360 UK was able to bring the client's ideas to life using bespoke sauna boards to create a clean, contemporary look that is just as efficient and comfortable whilst also achieving the desired aesthetic. A full glass fascia was used to complete the sauna allowing the client to enjoy a spectacular view of the indoor pool and bespoke space wall art beyond; featuring real still footage captured by the NASA Hubble Telescope!Bespoke Steam Room: Sauna360 also installed an opulent, bespoke steam room alongside the sauna. Finished in a deep blue glass mosaic with generous, sweeping roll front benches, the client is able to relax in comfort and style. 

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.

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is the greatest horticultural event. It is known all around the world for its fabulous floral displays, thought provoking and beautifully landscaped show gardens and for nurturing gardening trends and talent.Held in the most beautiful grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, the RHS Chelsea Flower Show is guaranteed to inspire and wow everyone who visits.One such garden is the RBC Brewin Dolphin Garden designed by one of House & Gardens Top 50 Garden Designers of 2023, Paul Hervey-Brookes. This stunning Silver-Gilt show garden ‘draws creative inspiration from the way knowledge is passed down from generation to generation and interpreted for the modern world.’To assist with the longevity and sustainable features of this garden, landscaping expert and garden consultant, G K Wilson Landscapes, opted to use UltraScape eco-bed environmentally friendly bedding mortar and slipbond brick slip adhesive to install the beautiful Lunar Sand pavers and Dover Taupe porcelain wall tiles. For the finishing flourish, the paving was grouted using UltraTile ProGrout Flexible in Bahama Beige and Grey.In a Chelsea Flower Show first, garden designer and RHS ambassador for inclusivity and diversity, Manoj Malde married his partner in his own magnificently designed RHS and Eastern Eye Garden of Unity feature garden. This powerful and vibrant garden is inspired by Manoj’s Indian heritage and has inclusivity and sustainability at its heart. Alongside peat-free planting, the garden also embraced the use of reclaimed materials to create the limestone path and used UltraScape eco-bed environmentally friendly bedding mortar to install the limestone paving.Two further award-winning gardens to benefit from Instarmac’s expertise are Darren Hawkes’ Silver-Gilt Samaritan’s Listening Garden and Emma Tipping’s Gold Medal St George ‘Alight Gere’ Balcony Garden.UltraScape were honoured to have supported, and sponsored, each of these beautiful gardens.UltraScape has been manufacturing and providing the industry with high quality, specialist paving installation materials for over 25 years. Their proven and trusted range includes BS 7533 complaint bedding mortars, primers, jointing solutions and brick slip adhesive. UltraScape’s premium products are specified by contractors, architects, consultants and engineers for an ever-expanding portfolio of major schemes across the UK.Choose UltraScape’s proven and certified BS 7533 Mortar Paving System for the performance and assurance that comes with a UKAS seal of approval – you can’t afford not to!To find out more about UltraScape’s range of paving installation materials, please email ultrascape@instarmac.co.uk, visit ultrascape.co.uk or call their team of experts by ringing +44 (0) 1827 254402.

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

Developed by Willmott Dixon and designed by Corstorphine & Wright as part of Devon & Cornwall’s Police and Crime transformation plan, this state-of-the-art police centre and operational hub is the base for up to 450 officers across the area. The project was developed with the intent to improve custody areas for detainees and provide a comfortable, modern working facility for its staff. During the development of the project, suggestions were taken from custody sergeants to help create a better space for staff and detainees.To provide the facilities necessary for 21st-century policing, attention was paid to integrating assets such as a virtual court system, and technology to monitor the health of vulnerable detainees and allow for crisp, modern meeting spaces that cater for a multitude of police functions.Local suppliers were engaged with the project and through training schemes, the project has been able to offer valuable experience to apprentices. Utilising 314sqm of Solar panels also means this build generates a substantial amount of green energy.Blockleys Synthesis S14 was used to create a strong, dark belt around the building which then blends smoothly into vertical strips of glass and contrasting white facades.

Suma International Manufacturing Company fabricated 26 Halspan FD90 64mm for Jawaher Residential Building.Halspan 90 internal fire door blanks feature Halspan's unique 3-layer particle board. Specifically designed for the purpose, using a complex combination of chemical and engineering development, these blanks produce doors of altogether superior quality, strength and overall preformance.The Jawaher Residential Building is suited in Salmiya, Kuwait, and compromises of 13 floors featuring luxury apartments, a gymnasium, and a rooftop swimming pool overlooking the city.This project featured 26 fire-rated doors fabricated using Halspan’s FD90 64mm unique 3-layer particle board that is durability tested to severe duty and is suitable for veneer, laminate, or paint finishes.The doors were used in the primary entrances for all floor levels and are latched single-acting single doors (LSASD) featuring a wooden frame and solid red meranti lipping with beech veneer facing.This project was contracted by Main Contractor; Al Daleel General Trading & Contracting Co and was fabricated by Suma International Manufacturing Company.Photography courtesy of Suma International Manufacturing Company.

Perched on an elevated plane above the tranquil Suffolk village of Rattlesden, Rising Sun Hill is a bespoke residential housing development that seeks to blend in with its surroundings while standing out among other new builds for its character.The 22 homes include eight that will be offered as affordable housing. Individually conceptualised, the homes feature finishes that draw on traditional materials and designs, such as weatherboarding and rendering. To reflect the space of the surrounding countryside, the homes (which range from 2-4 bedrooms) are roomy, both inside and out. Large, landscaped gardens, stone paths, patios and generous planting of shrubs and trees complete the idyllic setting.But attention to detail hasn’t just been dedicated to aesthetics. Consideration has also been given to the homes’ long-term sustainability, with each home being fitted with an air source heat pump and well-designed insulation.The very fabric of the buildings, from the blockwork to the timber frame, has been scrutinised too. For developer Hartog Hutton, it was just as important to use high-quality materials as it was to give each building its own individual flair.

Brett Landscaping, leading provider of high-quality hard landscape materials, has partnered with O’Brien Contractors, to supply block paving for the development of a new sports facility for the Old Saltleians Rugby Football Club in Warwickshire. The club, which was formed 95 years ago has been a fixture of West Midlands amateur rugby was required to relocate due to their original home obstructing the route of the HS2 development. With a sizeable budget at hand due to generous compensation from HS2, there were high expectations for top specification materials and an impressive finish at the new Water Orton site. O’Brien Contractors were appointed in 2021 to transform 17 acres of farmland into a state-ofthe-art sporting facility. The aim was to create a modern facility for sport and events, with the inspiration for the project being the surrounding natural environment. For Old Saltleians, this meant four high-standard grass pitches featuring advanced trench and pipe drainage (adhering to Sports England Standards), with irrigation ensuring year-round playability. The relocation included the addition of an ultra-modern clubhouse offering social spaces for the club and community to host events. This meant including extensive parking for the site was required on the site.

Dart Valley Systems (DVS) were thrilled to be chosen for the refurbishment project at Heathrow Terminal 5. DVS worked with Heathrow Airport (formerly known as Heathrow Airport) for over 15 years, providing brassware and water controls and have become established as a trusted partner. The Terminal 5 design team at Heathrow Airport worked with DVS to expand the range to include flush valves, urinal controls, automatic taps amongst others to fulfil their requirements. This specification was then carried forward to future Terminal projects.After a thorough review of washroom products from leading suppliers, the Heathrow Airport design team nominated DVS as the preferred supplier. There was a high level of confidence in the reliability of the products and support provided from previous successful collaborations. The results, achieved through close collaboration, have provided both parties with significant benefits, Heathrow Airport obtained the exact specifications they required and DVS was able to produce some of their next generation products. With an anticipated 35 million passengers a year passing through the terminal, the products needed to be robust and able to withstand a high footfall, along with offering cost and operational savings. 

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.