"glass"

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

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

The Anchorage Gateway in Salford Quays is a new multi-storey building in the centre of Salford. The main wing is 29 storeys high whilst the lower tower tops out at 19 storeys. The ground floor contains almost 400m2 of commercial space and the upper floors contain 290 residential units and 800m2 of amenity space.The building is reputed to be one of the highest brick clad buildings in Europe, Kinlan Brickwork being specialist sub-contractor.Domis Construction is the main contractor on this scheme. URSA UK Ltd was chosen as the preferred insulation manufacturer. We supplied over 11,500m2 of 100mm URSAPAN BLACK - a unique glass mineral wool rainscreen cladding insulation slab;·      Euroclass A1 fire rating (non-combustible).·      Thermal conductivity of 0.035 W/mK.·      BBA Certified. Kate Fox, Area Sales Manager for the Midlands stated, ‘Following the success of this initial partnership URSA are now the preferred supplier of rainscreen insulation and our products have been used on Fifty5ive Queen Street in Salford with others in the pipeline including Derwent Street’.

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.

Designed by Shawn Hausman Design this hotel features a retro interior style which some may call kitschy or ‘hippie’ style. But there’s no doubt that this hotel is unlike any other, bursting at the seams with bright, vibrant colours and minimalist furniture and décor reflecting a somewhat 70’s glam style. While the interior might not be everyone’s cup of tea, the exterior is quite a sight to behold. With its brutalist-style architecture, it draws on the curved windows that cover the building as the main focus of the design. Originally built in 1974 as an office block and public library Orms were responsible for retaining this stark exterior. The hotel was heightened by a glass extension across the top of the building that holds a restaurant and club.Perhaps the coolest feature of the hotel, the red pill lift. A single external red pod, contrasting vividly with the plain white concrete frame, that transports its guests to all the 266 rooms and the rooftop bars.Selo provided simple, sleek riser doors that fit in perfectly with this modern look, and allow the eye to be drawn to the more important design features of the interior.

Working through our Midlands contracting office, Planet provided smoke sealed extended height PURE20XL glazing to floors 2 to 7 of the building’s internal atrium. 6.7m high Schueco Jansen Viss screens were placed on ground level, while PURE20XL was also utilised along with rebated 1.5 leaf IsoPro doors (Rw 36 dB).Extended 3.3m LOFT100 screens (Rw 47 dB) with back-painted glass above transom level were placed in the 300-capacity auditorium with double IsoPro doors. Finally, banded LOFT20 partitions and matching IsoTec acoustic doors (Rw 38 dB) and double glazed LOFT54 (Rw 45 dB) with IsoPro doors were installed for the client’s meeting rooms and phone booths respectively.The Unity Place development is a great example of a people-first workplace design that hopes to be a catalyst for the regular return to the office for many of Santander’s staff. The building is set to achieve a BREEAM Excellent rating for sustainable performance, aided by Planet’s EPD documentation for our LOFT and IsoPro solutions.

Britannia Leisure Centre is a new multi-sport community complex in Hackney. A key driver for the client was that the building should have a compact footprint. This was achieved by stacking the facilities, creating a rooftop MUGA with tennis courts and 5-a-side football pitches.Lang+Fulton supplied the external steel mesh panels which crown the building and provide panoramic views of London. These were made from their Terra-34 grating which features an anti-climb aperture. The tall slender panels were designed to continue the architectural theme of the building’s columns and vertical elements and were finished in a graphite grey ppc to compliment the neutral palette of stone, concrete and glass.In addition a grating screen was supplied to secure the upper levels of the stairway providing natural daylight and through visibility to the entrance atrium and cafe area.The steel grating also conformed to the requirement for material durability and low maintenance which were key specification considerations.The Britannia Leisure Centre has received multiple awards including Overall Building of the Year (New London Architecture).

A large commercial client of EnviroBuild required a contemporary and low maintenance decking solution for their purpose built flat refurbishment project in South London. The decking would be supported over a flat roof surface, plug on balconies and garden decking areas, so required a versatile decking bearing system.The SolutionThe project used 400 m² of Hyperion Granite Pioneer decking installed on a sub-frame made of non-rot Manticore recycled plastic lumber. To support the decking over the low profile balconies and taller flat roof sections, adjustable decking supports were used. The various sizes of pedestals, allowed both very shallow decking heights and other sections to be supported securely with minimal installation time.Customer FeedbackThe client loved the look of the Granite Pioneer decking against the classic redbrick building. Combined with the modern glass balustrade, they created the perfect outdoor living spaces.Project DetailsSize: 400 m²Product: Granite Hyperion Composite DeckingSubstructure: Mesa Adjustable pedestals & Manticore Plastic LumberLocation: London

DAYLIGHTING TAKES OFF AT HEATHROWThe ageing glass skylights of Terminal 4 at London’s Heathrow Airport were in need of repair. The challenges for the project’s main contractor was finding a way to keep the project moving with little disruption to this busy terminal and also maintaining the airport’s security protocol.The answer was a single-source solution presented by Structura UK, the curtainwall engineers who are the exclusive distributor of Kalwall products in the United Kingdom and Ireland.18,836 square feet (1750 square meters) of Kalwall Skyroof® cladding were used above the terminal’s International Departure Lounge and check-in desks to replace the 30+ year old glass skylights. The Kalwall translucent sandwich panels are fully Aviation Security in Airport Development (ASAID) compliant with regards to blast performance and improve the solar control and insulation for the space below. In fact, Kalwall 100™ panels were specifically chosen to exceed code requirements, therefore future-proofing the project.The whole retrofit was completed externally using a custom moving scaffold and during evening hours, meaning there was no disruption to the inside of the building. And, as far as value, the lightweight translucent panels allowed for the existing substrate to be adapted and reused – a savings of nearly $9 million (£7m) in project costs and more than a year off the build timeline.“Structura UK was a new supplier to the major capital projects programme on the Airport (and) they delivered a flawless installation despite multiple challenging circumstances including adverse unseasonal weather, unexpected contaminated materials and multiple design changes,” says Ben Hooper, Senior Project Manager at Heathrow.Structura worked in conjunction with Structural Engineers Webb Yates for a scheme designed by Pascall+Watson architects. The project proved so successful that main contractor Balfour Beatty named Structura as their ‘Most Promising New Supplier 2018’. Kalwall offers complete line-of-sight protection, maintaining privacy for the security screening area and departure lounges while bathing the interior with diffused daylighting, regardless of the weather. Apart from providing the visual protection, its inherent strength and heavy-duty impact resistance make it ideal for secure locations such as this. It offers the highest protection in terms of windbornedebris and resistance to impact, abrasion and point loads. Not only is it man safe, but Kalwall achieves S:AA (BS 476 part 3) and Broof(t4) to EN 13501 part 5 for external fire performance.The exterior face is colour stable and includes a UV resistant, self-cleaning surface. This means that normal rainfall helps to keep the surface free of dust and dirt while at the same time retaining its original colour during the weathering process.

Project: Creative Centre, York St John UniversityClient: Tate+Co ArchitectsScope of project: Design and supply 24 bespoke-sized rooflights for the roof of a triple-height atrium to fit within apertures in a glulam timber grid.Products: 24 bespoke sized em.glaze rooflights, some with concealed actuator smoke ventsThe ChallengeThe roof of the striking 14m, triple-height atrium, which forms the centrepiece of the newly opened Creative Centre at York St John University, features a glulam timber roof grid. Architects Tate+Co wanted to punctuate that grid with bespoke sized rooflights to bring even more light into a space which is used as an exhibition, teaching and theatre space, as well as somewhere for students to mix and relax. The rooflights had to have a sleek, minimalist aesthetic, in line with the overall design intent of the atrium and, because almost all the services in the atrium are hidden, needed to be available with matching concealed actuator smoke vents.The SolutionWhitesales designed and supplied 24 bespoke-sized em.glaze rooflights which suited the specification perfectly. The flush-glazed glass-to-edge design of the em.glaze units with flat sealed glass units fitted within a fully welded, thermally broken aluminium frame achieved the lean, crisp look the architects were looking for. The fact that they were also available with fully concealed actuators in the smoke vents supplied by our affiliate business Sertus was an added bonus. All the rooflights were supplied for the project complete with preformed 300mm PVC splayed upstands, which enabled them to be fitted directly into the glulam grid, saving the contractors time on site. They were also fitted with specially coated glazing which allowed for a degree of solar gain and contributing to the low energy requirements of the BREEAM Excellent rated building.‍The BenefitsAs well as the meeting the design specification, Whitesales’ technical team helped to ensure that the em.glaze rooflights could be installed quickly and efficiently by the main contractors Kier Construction. We estimate that our recommendation to supply the units with preformed 300mm PVC splayed upstands saved the roofing team at least two weeks on site because they didn’t have to construct the upstands themselves and the integrated splay made waterproofing the roof a lot easier. Tate+Co Director Andy Baker-Falkner is delighted with the em.glaze units: “We liked the lean, crisp design of the Whitesales em.glaze units, particularly with the clean white reveal and option for fully concealed vent actuators.”

When Formby Point Construction needed to specify the insulation for The Gables, an exclusive housing development in Crosby, the project had multiple objectives. Firstly, the company wanted to go beyond the thermal and acoustic requirements outlined in the building regulations. Secondly, with such a large number of applications across multiple construction types, Formby Point Construction wanted to use one manufacturer and supplier to specify the correct product for each application. This would ensure ease of installation and ensure the project was delivered on budget.With this in mind, Formby Point Construction, consulted Formby-based builders’ merchant, Huws Gray, who referred it to Knauf Insulation.For the separating floor applications, Knauf Insulation recommended Knauf Insulation OmniFit® Roll 40, a versatile, non-combustible Euroclass A1 reaction to fire classification Glass Mineral Wool insulation that provides both excellent thermal and acoustic performance. Knauf Insulation also recommended Knauf Insulation DriTherm® Cavity Slab 32 for the masonry cavity external walls, Knauf Insulation Masonry Party Wall Slab for separating walls to comply with Document E and Knauf Insulation Loft Roll 40 for the insulation of the loft.As well as considering the comfort of the homeowner, Formby Point Construction considers the welfare of its employees as part of its decision making. In addition to excellent thermal and acoustic performance, Knauf Insulation scored highly on this aspect thanks to the ECOSE® Technology, its patented sustainable bio-based binder. Products manufactured with ECOSE® Technology contain no added phenol or formaldehyde, and they are 70% less energy-intensive than products manufactured with traditional formaldehyde-based binder. They have no odour, are softer to touch, making them much more pleasant to handle and install. They have also achieved the best possible Eurofins Gold Certificate for Indoor Air Comfort, contributing to a high level of indoor air quality for installers and homeowners alike.Once the specification had been agreed, Knauf Insulation then worked with Huws Gray to price the project and take advantage of volume discounts. This meant that Formby Point Construction had some additional budget for insulation. The company therefore decided to install Knauf Insulation Acoustic Roll within the stud walls between all rooms, going above the minimum standard required between bathrooms and bedrooms outlined in Document E.Thanks to Formby Point Construction’s commitment to going above and beyond the regulations, and Knauf Insulation’s high performance Glass Mineral Wool insulation, homeowners at The Gables will enjoy quieter, warmer homes. To see how Knauf Insulation can help with your insulation needs, check out our Housebuilders Hub.https://www.knaufinsulation.co.uk/Housebuilders-hub

OverviewKEA Dublin is a 2787m² shopping centre in Ballymun Ireland which required a full smoke ventilation system from Powrmatic.Project BackgroundIKEA Dublin is 30,000 square-foot shopping centre in Ballymun Ireland which required a full smoke ventilation system from Powrmatic.Project SolutionPowrmatic supplied 73 Roof Opensky smoke ventilators to the new IKEA store in Dublin. Specified and installed by Air Design Systems Ltd, the installation is providing full smoke ventilation to five separate areas within the store.The second area is the show room and café which were naturally ventilated by louvred ventilators and split into zones using a fixed smoke curtain. A similar approach was taken with the self-serve warehouse and checkout area, which was also naturally ventilated using louvred ventilators and fixed smoke curtains. Polycarbonate blades are used on the louvred ventilators to allow natural light to enter the spaces. Additionally, the escape staircases were ventilated using louvred ventilators at the head of the stairs and a local control panel with an emergency break glass.Project Result“We were involved from the very early in the design stages of the project, using our knowledge and experience of installations within other IKEA stores and warehouses to engineer a suitable, cost-effective solution,” recalled  Air Design Systems Ltd Director Alan Clare.“Within these works we have had to include for three separate main control panels, all electrical wiring run in fire-protected cable, local control panels with emergency break glasses and a mimic control panel linking all smoke ventilation zones. We also provided rain sensors, roof access hatches, and head of lift shaft cowls,” he added.Due to the success of the project, there was a requirement within a year of opening to extend the warehouse area. Air Design Systems Ltd was awarded the sub-contract to extend the system into the new space and link back to the existing control system. In total, a further 14 Powrmatic ventilators were installed in the warehouse roof & walls and at the head of the two additional emergency staircases.Powrmatic’s Roof Opensky ventilators are attractive, low-profile units that have been specifically designed for both smoke and heat exhaust and natural ventilation applications. The Opensky can be roof or wall mounted for exhaust or inlet and can be supplied with a hinged base for use as an access hatch. They are tested for use as smoke ventilators to BS EN 12101-2.

University of BournemouthProduct: Two Bespoke Kensington Solar CanopiesCanopy Colour: Anthracite Grey RAL7016Canopy Size: 21.9m x 4.9m eachInstallation Date: September 2017The project in briefAs part of a major infrastructure development Bournemouth University created a new transport hub to connect the University to the wider area. Shelter for waiting passengers was part of the plan. Uniquely it had to fit in with the wider design themes of the development and deliver on the University’s sustainability goals by utilising solar technology. To meet those requirements Able Canopies created a bespoke canopy design based on our stylish Kensington system. The addition of solar panels, effective drainage, plus seating and under canopy wind protection, were all elements that the adaptable Kensington can handle. The result was a standout look for a practical transport hub that provides effective weather protection and longer term pay back via renewable energy generation.Growth at Bournemouth UniversityThe new Talbot Campus development at Bournemouth University is an important and prestigious project, not just for the University but for the local area which benefits from the success of the University and its students. The £3 million investment in new campus buildings and other infrastructure is a long-term commitment that will see the University widen its learning provision and all-round facilities. Part of the benefit for students, and the wider Bournemouth area, is the construction of a new transport hub that will provide joined up public transport connecting the University campus to Bournemouth itself.  A key part of the new transport hub is the weather protection provided to passengers as they wait for buses. To ensure that this essential part of the development met the standards required of the project Able Canopies entered early design discussions with the University. This evolved and in April 2017 Mildren Construction awarded Able Canopies the works for the new bus hub.Project Proposal & InstallationThroughout the development and design process we thought that our Kensington Dual pitch would be the ideal product for this installation. The more the design developed and requirements were added, such as the solar roof panels, the more convinced we were that it was perfect for the client’s needs. The Kensington is a robust, steel frame system that will stand up to all that the weather has to throw at it. Its architectural good looks mean that it makes a strong aesthetic statement, which was a key requirement here. We worked closely with the solar panel provider Polysolar who had overall control of the installation. Their panel fitted perfectly into the Kensington roof with some minor alterations to our working method to provide clean, efficient and sustainable energy for the transport hub. In addition, we had to consider how all cables were concealed and accessed at later dates. To achieve this access panels were installed in the 2 higher posts, one dealt with DC cables from the solar panels and the other with AC cables for the lighting. The final 2 lower posts on each canopy were designed to be integral rain water pipes and dispersed all water from the roof into a drainage connection below the paving.The Finished CanopiesAs the images show, the canopies look great and they are doing their job effectively in the transport hub which is now up and running. The solar panels are producing energy efficiently and help to provide a safe and comfortable shelter for the Campus’s transport users.The Tech SpecsMain Structure 21.9m x 4.9m overall canopy size (each)Powder coated and hot dip galvanised steel frame Inclined from 3m low end to 4m high end126 PS-CT Series Solar Panels per canopy (8mm thickness)Bespoke laminated glass end panelsMicro connectors to all solar panels to ensure all cabling was discreteSabre Architectural LED lightingBespoke underground drainage connectionsBespoke electrical access panels18kw system in totalGalvanised steel cable trunking & aluminium cable trays Underside Windbreaks10mm toughened glass windbreaks fixed to heavy duty steel frameGalvanised steel & hardwood benchesStainless steel glass clamps

Geraint Thomas House in Crawley is a 9-storey new build development of 91 modern homes, designed to impeccably high standards by Ayre Chamberlain Gaunt and Claylens Mills with the additional aspiration of setting a future benchmark for other developments in the area.The apartments have been designed to meet the needs of modern families, with spacious living areas and plenty of storage space. Two-thirds of the apartments are available through shared ownership schemes, making them more affordable for local residents.One of the key features of the development is its incredibly detailed brickwork. The brick façades provide a striking contrast to the glass and steel of the surrounding buildings, and playful patterns create a distinct and detailed façade that stands further sets it apart from previously built local projects. Delicate shades of bronze are prevalent amongst the building’s rain-screen cladding and balustrades.A bespoke blend of Blockleys Sterling Grey and Black Wirecut bricks adds a premium sheen to a project that already oozes impressive aesthetics and cuts a unique shape into Crawley’s existing architecture. Geraint Thomas House was recently shortlisted in the Medium Housing Development at the 2022 BDA Brick Awards.

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.

The £45 million world-class School of Management is the flagship building of the University of Bath. The seven-storey building brings together the entire school under one roof and is a place to inspire new levels of collaboration and showcase the excellent learning, research, and industry partnerships available.The three principles of the design are flexibility, transparency, and collaboration. At the centre of the building is an impressive atrium with a feature steel staircase.   Within the atrium is the pavilion, a double height space flooded with natural light has been designed as a hub of activity where great minds meet. The buildings two arms emerge from a central node, each wing housing an array of academic and research space. The design brief called for openness and transparency which was achieved by the use of Lusso glazed partitioning throughout. The Lusso 25 glazed system and Silenzio doors were used to enhance and divide up space which at the same time allows natural light to filter through the building and encourage connectivity. Where the design required glass partitions in excess of 3.5 metres height the Lusso 105 glazed system was selected to meet the structural requirement which has created a visually impactful atrium.

A new state-of-the-art Jaguar Landrover showroom was built for the Helston Group in Taunton. The facilities reflect the latest corporate identity concept and comes complete with a new workshop, multi-storey rooftop parking, and an interactive showroom configuration with display systems.The showroom features wide open spaces and a large sales area to provide the customer with a first-class experience. It also affords staff members greater visibility throughout the showroom and forecourt areas. Lusso were appointed by main contractor, Acheson Construction, to provide internal glazing throughout the showroom and workshop area. Lusso 25 frameless single glazed partitioning system and complimentary Lusso glass doors were installed to form individual offices which allow privacy when needed, whilst still maintaining visibility of the showroom. Lusso 105 double glazed frameless partitions were installed to provide a barrier between the showroom and workshop area.The use of stylish internal glazing as part of the backdrop to the stunning Jaguar Landrover range certainly makes an impact. The end result blends functionality and aesthetics, providing a stylish and contemporary showroom worthy of the prestigious Jaguar Land Rover brand.

Project DetailProject: The ShardLocation: London, UKProduct: TS.9205 & TS.11204 Cam Action ClosersProject DescriptionBuilt to shine across the London Skyline and provide an icon to visit, to stay at or just to have lunch. Know for its unique Steel and Concrete structure that towers some 310m (1016 ft) and covered in a glass facade.Levels 4,5 and 6 enjoy the beauty of the well known Rutland brand of door closers and enhance the doorways where ever they control.Whether you are a patient in the Private Hospital on floors 4,5 or 6, or you are a visitor to the viewing platform on level 68 to 72, or work on one of the floors in the Shard you will enjoy the benefits of the doorways that have the Rutland softclose door closers.It was important that the door controls not only work well but were guaranteed for many years. Both the TS 9205 and the TS 11204 Cam Action door closers were used extensively on The Shard as the importance of frictionless customer care and ease of operation was paramount.A Door Closer is a small element of building design, which makes an enormous difference to its operation.

Armourcoat’s Sculptural three-dimensional wall finish features in the ground floor foyer at One Blackfriars residential tower in London’s South Bank. The building designed by Simpson Haugh and Partners is a compelling architectural achievement, with a stunning arc of glass taking inspiration from Sarpaneva’s Lansetti II vase.Inside the building the curves continue with a vast, immaculate resident foyer and lift lobby by London based luxury interior design studio, Goddard Littlefair. With their signature quality and attention to detail it provides the feeling of a five-star hotel entrance. Armourcoat’s seamless ‘Fluted’ Sculptural design was specified by the studio for the flanking feature walls to provide a sense of scale and grandeur on entering the space.Armourcoat Sculptural wall designs are created using a combination of traditional hand sculpting and computer aided design to ensure total accuracy during installation whilst retaining the essence of hand crafting. The panels are mineral based and incorporate up to 30% post-consumer recycled content. They are non-toxic and completely non-combustible. Once the panels are installed, each design can be finished in a range of decorative surface finishes. Photography by Franklin & Franklin

The new campus of the Erasmus Brussels University of Applied Sciences and Arts is located only a few steps away from the Dansaertstraat. This iconic design is a treat for lovers of minimal design with exposed concrete and very monochrome colour palette. The new campus of the Erasmus Brussels University of Applied Sciences and Arts is located only a few steps away from the Dansaertstraat designed by Architects B-Architecten, B-bis Architecten and B-city.The new campus hosts more than 1000 students. The 2 auditoriums, 40 subject classrooms, the teachers’ rooms, a study landscape, a library, a cafeteria and several sitting corners and terraces are now located in a trendy and lively city district.The building is a prominent and transparent construction with a heavy-set finishing touch. On the ground floor, the openness is transposed by a sunken and covered recreation ground. This big interior space is connected to the square in front of the building. Most public areas such as the students’ cafeteria, the library, the students’ administration office and several meeting areas border the recreation ground. The building opens up towards the square and the entire neighbourhood thanks to a full glass façade.

Designed by architects from Qatar, this complex villa has a very different design from the usual house models; Clean and angular forms which are broken up with massive section of timber structures. These structures are not ordinarily large section of timber. They are created in house at Technowood and serve as a “reduced timber option”. Furthermore, with only using 2% when compared to using sold timber for the same project.Stone, metals and glass are the main texture of the design. These white tones of concrete structured against panels of natural timber, it’s most eye-catching feature. Located in Dohada, one of the most modern cities of Qatar, this futuristic house is also accompanied by the tranquil nature of the pool and the wooden sunbathing areas surrounding the secluded exterior.When working with designs for projects, Technowood allows the Architect to think big and realise big at the same time. Unsupported beams of this natural material can span up to 12 metres unsupported… imagine this section in a hard wood, the weight would be tonnes in comparison to the lightweight Technowood option.Credits and Further informationLocationDohada, QatarMaterialsCantilevered Bris Soleil, solid forms and cladding in TechnowoodProjectPrivate Villa

Located in Tower Hamlets, Gayton House and Sleaford House are managed by housing association Poplar HARCA. Following amendments to Building Regulations, which banned the use of combustible materials in external walls of high-rise buildings above 18m, StoTherm Mineral K was specified to replace the existing EWI system.BBA-certified, StoTherm Mineral K comprises mineral fibre insulation boards and the system is classified with an A2-s1, d0 reaction to fire in accordance with BS EN 13501-1.Working on behalf of Westminster Building Company, Square 1 Architectural Solutions was responsible for removing the existing EWI and installing the StoTherm Mineral K system onto four elevations on each 23-storey block. The non-combustible mineral fibre insulation boards were secured to the existing concrete substrate using adhesive and mechanical fixings, and without the need for additional expansion joints.A StoLevell Duo Plus reinforcing coat embedded with Sto-Glass Fibre Mesh was then applied to the face of the insulation boards. This was followed by the application of 1.5mm stippled StoSilco, a silicone resin render that provides high levels of water repellence to protect the walls from weathering.

Buildable"Glass Fibre Concrete (GRC) was identified early on as the ideal material for the project to achieve the desired civic aesthetic but also to avoid adding significant stress to the existing structure." - Nat Keast, Associate, Wilkinson-Eyre.DesignableThe project is an AJ Retrofit Higher Education & Campus Award 2023.The lightweight, three-dimensional GRC cladding panels featuring a stylisation of LSBU’s “sail” emblem give the building a welcoming, civic quality."We worked closely with subcontractor Tellings during the design phase to develop the three-dimensional panels, as well as vertical slats and horizontal bands. Alongside the 100% white bromo brick with white grout used for the existing concrete stair cores and shear walls, GRC helped change the perception of the building."We had to fight hard to keep the GRC through various value engineering exercises, but the university supported us and was able to appreciate the impact of the new facade." - Nat Keast, Associate, Wilkinson-Eyre.SustainableThe building has received a very good BREEAM rating and by retaining the existing structure, total embodied carbon is half of the RIBA 2030 Climate Challenge target benchmark.

Structural atria glazing for a large open central point of a buildingThe ChallengeThe Grafton Quarter in Croydon was an ambitious multi-million project to develop an innovative creative hub of artist studios and residential units. The main contractor Magnus Build worked with an array of innovative suppliers including ourselves and wanted to ensure that the client vision was fulfilled.The solutionTransforming a former industrial site into an outstanding mixed-use site was a project with a little bit of everything where specialist contractors were asked to provide innovative solutions. For our part we were able to fulfil with a structural atria glazing for a large open central communal point of a key building; our use of glass within the atria allowed natural light transmission, enhanced the felling of space which created a unique design feature to the building.Whether you’re at planning or construction stage why not see how we could help you add natural light and space to your commercial space; you can call us on 01223 792244 or pop us an email via info@nextgenrooflights.co.uk outlining what help you need.

Bespoke circular walk on rooflight on a terrace overlooking the harbour The ChallengeRefurbishment of the roof area, creation of a terrace with a pool and seating area that complemented the existing building.The SolutionThe Boom Tower which boasts outstanding panoramic views over Portsmouth Harbour, was a project Westcott Construction Portsmouth carried out with work that involved the refurbishment of the roof area they created of a terrace with a seating area and pool on the roof, overlooking the Solent. Works included frameless glass balustrades around the extended deck and a bespoke walk-on circular roof light with opaque safety was created and provided by us to make a unique feature for the roof. These finishing touches mean residents now have the perfect place to relax and enjoy 360 views from the roof terrace of Portsmouth Harbour, the Solent and toward the Isle of Wight.Whether you’re at planning or construction stage why not see how we could help you add natural light and space to your residential space; you can call us on 01223 792244 or pop us an email via info@nextgenrooflights.co.uk outlining what help you need.

Innovative rooflight glazing in a single storey rear extensionThe ChallengeThe homeowner wanted to maximise the space and light available to them in their family home in London. As this property was a terraced property with only a small front garden facing onto the street, the solutions had to be focussed to the rear of the property.The SolutionThe homeowner also wanted to make the most of the natural sunlight that the garden benefitted from, so they had chosen to erect and single storey extension with fully glazed floor to ceiling doors across the rear of the extension. However, they also wanted to allow a greater abundance of light into the single storey extension, we supplied two fixed rooflights but to create even more unobstructed light with supplied a multi-panel rooflight (three panels) supported by transparent glass beams. This solution ensured that the maximisation the space and light they originally desired was fulfilled with a stylish and functional solution.Whether you’re at planning or construction stage why not see how we could help you add natural light and space to your home; you can call us on 01223 792244 or pop us an email via info@nextgenrooflights.co.uk outlining what help you need.

The ChallengeMade up largely of two 19th-Century coal warehouses, the site needed to be drastically re-thought to evolve into a new retail complex comprising more than 50 shops and restaurants.With high levels of footfall anticipated, the safety of individuals would need to be a primary factor in its redesign.As well as this, creating light-filled spaces to attract shoppers from across London would be integral to the project’s long-term success.As a result, specifying materials capable of balancing safety requirements alongside aesthetics and practicality was critical.The SolutionSupplying in excess of 150 square metres of Pyroguard Protect toughened fire-rated glass to various classifications – including E60, EW120, and EI60 – to the project, Pyroguard was able to fulfill the architect’s safety requirements, while delicately balancing the need for aesthetic excellence to contribute to the repurposing of these historic buildings.Working closely with Propak Architectural Glazing who were enlisted to design, manufacture and install a large range of steel glazing systems for the project, Pyroguard created a bespoke thickness of 31 mm, instead of the traditional 25 mm for the EI60 requirement, to perfectly complement the systems.

Fifty5ive Queen Street, Salford is a new 18 storey, 220-unit residential building in the centre of Salford for local developer Salboy.It includes modern, high-quality 1-, 2- & 3-bedroom apartments and duplexes, amenities include private resident workspace, gymnasium, yoga studios, resident cinema room and a terrace garden. Domis Construction is the preferred construction partner for Salboy on this scheme. In early 2022 they approached Encon Insulation in Chorley looking for a more readily available alternative to the stone wool product already specified. URSA UK Ltd was chosen to fill the void and keep the scheme on track. We supplied over 4500m2 of 100mm URSAPAN BLACK - a unique glass mineral wool rainscreen cladding insulation slab; ·      Euroclass A1 fire rating (non-combustible).·      Thermal conductivity of 0.035 W/mK.·      BBA Certified. Kate Fox, Area Sales Manager for the Midlands stated, ‘Following the success of this initial partnership URSA are now the preferred supplier of rainscreen insulation and our products are currently being used on Anchorage Quay in Salford with others in the pipeline including Derwent Street in Salford’.     

Covering 460,000 square meters, the equivalent of around 70 soccer fields, Starfield in scenic Hanam, just east of Seoul, is one of the largest shopping malls in South Korea. Stepping inside the mall, shoppers are greeted with copious amounts of natural light coming in through the two glass roofs standing at 35 meters above the ground, built to deliver a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. Our coatings are making sure that Starfield Hanam’s stunning roofs are looking great for the millions of shoppers that the giant mall is catering for.The owner specified a fast-curing primer to increase productivity in the workshop, followed by a high build polyurethane topcoat with a semi-gloss white surface.Intercure 200 was chosen to provide superior long term corrosion protection to the roofs’ steel. The zinc epoxy primer provides rapid cure even under low temperature conditions and is suitable for over-coating within 3 hours in most climatic conditions, speeding up production and throughput in fabrication shops.Semi-gloss and available in a wide range of colors, our Interthane 870 finish coat was used to deliver excellent cosmetics and extended recoatability, assisting in project flexibility.This two coat system boasts a very long global track record.

Based in Somerset, Taunton School was founded all the way back in 1847. While the building’s stunning exterior has been immaculately preserved in the years since, the interior has of course been routinely upgraded during that time in order to support the ever-evolving demands of educational environments – including the recent installation of our Type G100 movable wall system.Type G100 is a glazed partition system that provides effective protection again sound transfer when fully closed, achieving up to Rw 54dB. This particular system is comprised of 10 panels, with half being glass and the other half sporting a solid matte black finish – all housed within a sleek black painted aluminium frame.Thanks to the Type G100, the school’s cafeteria layout can changed within minutes, offering the choice between a large open plan space, or a pair of smaller rooms. A fully solid system would not allow for the transfer of natural light to the smaller of the two spaces created when the system is in use, however the glazed panels mean this is not an issue. A pass door also allows for access between the smaller spaces when the panels are being used.

Based in Somerset, Taunton School was founded all the way back in 1847. While the building’s stunning exterior has been immaculately preserved in the years since, the interior has of course been routinely upgraded during that time in order to support the ever-evolving demands of educational environments – including the recent installation of our Type G100 movable wall system.Type G100 is a glazed partition system that provides effective protection again sound transfer when fully closed, achieving up to Rw 54dB. This particular system is comprised of 10 panels, with half being glass and the other half sporting a solid matte black finish – all housed within a sleek black painted aluminium frame.Thanks to the Type G100, the school’s cafeteria layout can changed within minutes, offering the choice between a large open plan space, or a pair of smaller rooms. A fully solid system would not allow for the transfer of natural light to the smaller of the two spaces created when the system is in use, however the glazed panels mean this is not an issue. A pass door also allows for access between the smaller spaces when the panels are being used.

The Castle Cove Sailing Club in Weymouth, Dorset, constructed a new terrace area to provide a viewing platform for the sailing events in the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.The sailing club required a waterproofing system that could be installed directly to the concrete construction in order for the works to be completed as quickly as possible. It was essential that the system was compatible with timber decking and would provide long-term protection from the elements.The sailing club contacted KG Roofing, their local Polyroof Approved Contractor, to provide a waterproofing solution that could meet the demands of the project. The BBA-Approved Protec System was specified for the works due to its rapid cure times and high waterproofing performance. Timber battens were incorporated into the system to create fixing platforms, creating a striking yet functional support for the timber decking and glass balustrade.With the Protect System affording rapid curing times, the terrace was finished within the desired time-frame, leaving ample time before the beginning of the Olympic Games. The lucky viewers at Castle Cove Sailing Club witnessed many record-breaking performances from Team GB’s sailing team, including Ben Ainslie becoming Britain’s greatest ever Olympic sailor.

Orbis OS211 Glass Infill Top FixOrbis OS231 Perforated Infill Top FixOrbis OS200/OS201 Vertical Bar InfillBorn from Havering Council’s vision to improve the sports and fitness facilities available in the borough, the £28 million investment is set to be a catalyst for regeneration in Romford.Named in honour of the Sapphire anniversary of Queen Elizabeth ll’s reign, the centre comprises of an eight-lane competition pool, gymnasium and first floor 56m by 26m ice rink.Appointed by contractors Willmott Dixon, Delta Balustrades were responsible for the supply of 579m’s of balustrading and 246m’s of handrails throughout the entire complex.With two extreme environments coexisting the specifications for the balustrade finishes were of upmost importance.Balustrades and handrails in the warm, chlorine filled air of the swimming pool environment received our Ultra (Marine) finish, providing a bright polished surface to prevent corrosion.First floor ice rink balustrades received our HiBuild powder coating finish, which boasts a ‘warm to touch’ feature that doesn’t allow the transfer a cold environment to bare hands.A visually striking, stainless steel staircase with perforated panels connects the floors within the ceiling void atrium spanning four floors.

Armourcoat's three dimensional Sculptural Barcode wall finish has been specified at a high profile office fit-out in Eastpoint Business Park, Dublin. The project interior, designed by Meehan Associates, includes a series of ‘huddle rooms’ and meeting spaces with wonderful use of bold accent colour to help orientate staff. The colours also act to highlight the clean, crisp detailing of the linear ‘Barcode’ design used to link the spaces. Armourcoat Sculptural creates seamless wall surfaces with impactful designs and cast relief. Each design is created from cast GRG (Glass-fibre Reinforced Gypsum) panels, CAD generated to enable a continuous pattern or unique decorative effect.Over 600m2 of Armourcoat’s Sculptural Barcode finish was applied to achieve the seamless finish to walls, together with banded polished plaster finishes in various colours throughout the building.The project was delivered by Meehan Associates to meet USGBC LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) standards.The architects were keen to specify sustainable materials to ensure their positive contribution to the project. In keeping with the eco specification, Armourcoat finishes include 40% pre-consumer recycled marble and no VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds).

Ecoprod recently undertook a complete refurbishment of the washrooms at Dukes Court – 220,000 sq ft of premium office space in central Woking. The project started in January 2020 and handover was July 2020, somewhat later than expected due to the effect of the Covid 19 lockdown in Spring 2020.This project was delivered in collaboration with Designer Contracts Interiors UK Ltd who managed the flooring, walls, ceilings, doors, lighting, tiling, decorating and mirrors. Ecoprod supplied and managed the installation of the cubicles and IPS systems, all mechanical works, and the sanitaryware schedule and equipment.Cubicle and IPS systems – Petrus range by Formwise and Abet Laminati finish in Grey Zebrano5 WCs – Siamp Samoa Deluxe3 waterless urinals – URIMAT Ceramic Compact C22 URIMAT ESG urinal privacy dividers5 miscea LIGHT taps2 Tristone pure white wash troughs2 URIMAT Favorit hand dryers1 Mitsubishi Smart hand dryer1 Bespoke shower enclosure by Mega Glass1 Triton 80i shower setAccessible toilet – WC and handrail set by Disabled Toilets, basin by Conti +, tap Ultra by Conti+

The Canaletto residential tower at 257 City Road in London is located halfway between Old Street and Angel Stations in Islington, alongside the regenerated City Road Basin. It comprises a 31-storey tower with 190 luxury one, two and three bedroom apartments built to the standards of Code 4 Sustainable Homes Level 4.The tower is concrete frame and has a curving facade of metal and glass that breaks the volume into a series of three-to-four storey clusters. In turn, each cluster contains grouped balcony terraces, which are a striking feature of the building. The balconies are of steel construction connected to the concrete frame and as always with cantilever construction elements of this nature, one of the early design considerations had to be the prevention of thermal bridging.For the high specification Canaletto project the Schöck Isokorb® T type SK offers the ideal solution. It is a concrete-to-steel connectivity module that sits between the outer and inner structural connection points and blocks the outflow of heat through the use of high quality polystyrene insulation foam. The Isokorb® T type SK provides a clean and unobtrusive connection detail, minimises on-site assembly time and enables a high level of prefabrication.