"ground water control trench sheeting etc"

In transforming the reception area of a modern and thriving school, we were tasked with ensuring the security of reception staff while also facilitating the seamless interactions with visitors and managing deliveries effectively.To address this multifaceted requirement, we proposed the implementation of our heavy duty bi-parting serving hatch window system. This innovative solution offered maximum security, allowing reception staff to lock the window as needed to maintain control over access. However, it also featured a unique bi-parting action; when one window was manually pushed open, the adjacent window would simultaneously open, maximising the available opening space. This design not only enhanced security but also facilitated smooth and efficient service for visitors, enabling reception staff to manage interactions with ease while maintaining a secure environment.By combining functionality with security, our solution provided the school with a versatile and adaptable reception area that could accommodate a wide range of needs, from everyday visitor interactions to handling deliveries, all while prioritising the safety and security of reception staff.

In addressing the demands of a thriving commercial fast food venue, we devised a tailored solution to create a dedicated entrance exclusively for online delivery and collection orders.At the core of this situation was the installation of a durable, commercial grade aluminium swing door, engineered to endure the high traffic flow characteristic of such establishments. Seamlessly integrated with a local access control system, this door allowed staff to securely lock the entrance after hours while still facilitating convenient access from outside via a digital keypad. From hardware installation to software integration, our in-house team managed every aspect of the installation with precision and efficiency.To reinforce the restaurant’s brand identity, custom graphics were applied to the door, carefully curated to align with the client’s specific preferences. This meticulous attention to detail not only enhanced the visual appeal of the entrance but also contributed to a cohesive and professional aesthetic that resonated with customers and staff alike. By providing a comprehensive solution prioritising security, accessibility, and brand representation, we effectively met the unique needs of the fast food venue, ensuring seamless operations and customer satisfaction.

A £5m renovation scheme in Warrington has been presented with the “Best Change of Use to Existing Building” regional award by LABC (Local Authority Building Control) and Warrington Borough Council.The scheme required the conversion of a former office building, Kings Court, in Central Warrington, into 32 luxury flats, comprising of a mix of one and two bedroom apartments, arranged over three floors of accommodation. These flats are situated above retail units and restaurants. The renovation included a further two exclusive duplex penthouses for Phase 2.As part of the renovation, Main Contractor Emerald Bay Construction required an acoustic flooring solution to meet Approved Document ‘E’ Building Regulations and therefore provide overall resident comfort, in terms of Sound Insulation between separating floors. As the building structural floor was primarily concrete, Soundis put forward a solution that involved 2,072 m2 of Soundis ChipPanel 28 to help with Impact Noise. This shallow deck floating floor is ideal for concrete floors where Airborne Noise is not an issue but Impact Noise Attenuation needs to exceed the requirements of current Building Regulations.

URSA storey’s high with new Whitechapel development Global insulation manufacturer, URSA, has seen some 25,000 m2 of its specialist insulation materials specified and installed at one of the capital’s largest residential development projects in recent years. Ian Claydon, Technical Manager for URSA UK, describes the specification through to installation journey: “The Silk District is a new development located close to Whitechapel Station and within walking distance to the City of London. The Whitechapel based scheme compromises three residential blocks set around a piazza with private landscaped gardens. New commercial space on the ground floor of The Silk District will welcome many new and exciting restaurants, cafes, bars and shops. The Borough is considered an important area of regeneration for London and will meet the aspirations of neighbouring Shoreditch, Brick Lane, Spitalfields Market and Bethnal Green all of which are less than a 10-minute walk from the development.  “Our work with the London based property development company leading the scheme, Mount Anvil, began in November 2018. We provided advice and guidance on making the correct choice of materials, achieving compliance with Building Regulations (thermal performance, fire resistance requirements and resistance to rain penetration) and compliance with the NHBC Standards. We also provided numerous thermal models, U-value calculations and associated condensation risk analysis. The Mount Anvil team were undoubtedly impressed with the speed and quality of URSA Technical Services. “We were involved with external wall construction as well as the design of a brick clad rainscreen system and continued to work extensively on the scheme throughout 2019 as the design developed further. Work was delayed at the beginning of 2020 due to Covid and re-started in July 2020. Ian explained: “Collaborating with the client in these very early phases ensured that they were able to select a product that is entirely right for each and every one of their primary and secondary needs. Planning was critical within the design and roll out and meticulous attention to detail was applied during these initial phases and throughout. Key products installed included URSA’s Cavity Batt 32 & Walltec 32 – 12,000m2 and URSA Acoustic Roll - 13,000m2.   URSA Walltec 32 is a lightweight, non-combustible, semi-rigid glass mineral wool slab treated with silicon based water repellent. It is faced with a black glass tissue on one side and are ideal for use behind rainscreen cladding systems in both new build and refurbishment projects.URSA Cavity Batt is a lightweight, semi rigid glass mineral wool slab treated with silicon based water repellent. It is suitable for use in both fully and partially filled masonry cavity walls up to 25m high.Mark Guest, Regional Sales Manager for URSA UK continued: “URSA Walltec proved to be the ideal choice due to its outstanding fire performance qualities, with a Euroclass rating of ‘A1’ making it totally non-combustible and the ultimate in safety specification for behind cladding systems. URSA glass mineral wool is manufactured from an abundant, sustainable resource and utilises at least 50% glass waste. From an installation perspective, the black glass fleece tissue facing means that the product could be used behind open joint cladding without being seen.“The Cavity Batt is available in a wide range of thicknesses, ensuring the client was able to meet all appropriate Building Regulations and standards. Our new generation URSA TERRA mineral wool has a ‘soft touch’ feel making it easier to handle and install whilst still maintaining its excellent mechanical properties.“There were several other over-arching factors to consider within this scheme and those included the sheer size and scale of the site and its location in a packed city centre. The lightweight nature of both products meant that they could be compressed therefore saving time and money on transport, effectively halving the number of journeys needed. This meant that more products could be delivered to site and stored in an area where space was at a premium. “Work is now once again very much underway with an anticipated completion date of early in 2021. The property market is thriving once again and Whitechapel is becoming recognised as a hotspot for investment and is now being considered the destination of choice for many new businesses. Our distributor partner, Encon Insulation in Dagenham, worked closely alongside us during the project” Ian concluded: “It’s fantastic to see two of our core product specified at this major residential development. We have enjoyed a collaborative, partnering approach with the client throughout. The client has been keen to specify the safest, most durable, sustainable and quality product available on the market today and we’ve been pleased to support them in their design journey through to installation.”

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

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

Privacy glass on a balcony is becoming a more frequent request. This installation by AC Fabrications in Cornwall on a domestic property perfectly displays how a glass privacy screen can be used. The partially frosted glass increases privacy for those on the balcony, people at ground level will not be able to see them. The non-frosted section allows the residents to enjoy their view from the privacy of their balcony. Taller glass on one side extends the privacy even more, and also will act as a windbreak. Frameless glass balustrade is often used as a windbreak on balconies, the solid pane of glass protecting those on the balcony. The installer has used POSIglaze base fit Silver brushed channel. Designed to provide the greatest possible adjustment opportunities, this system enables each panel to be perfectly aligned during, or even after, installation. POSIglaze is the perfect choice for residential to light commercial installations where up to 1.5kN frameless glass balustrade is required. This innovative patented and market leading screw-clamp technology locks glass panels into position effortlessly, with four immobilising fasteners per meter of channel. 

The Francis Crick Institute, the largest biomedical research institute under one roof in Europe, was opened by The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh in late 2016. A striking £650m landmark in the heart of London, situated next to St Pancras Station, the Crick is a purpose built biomedical research facility.Designed by HOK and PLP architects the Crick is one of the most complex buildings in London with a very high level of specification. With floor space approaching 1 million square feet over 12 floors, 4 of which are below ground level, the design of the building was technically challenging. The state-of-the-art building was developed to minimise its environmental impact and be highly sustainable with an ‘excellent’ BREEAM rating.The Francis Crick Institute was designed to support scientific research goals whilst promoting public engagement. Encouraging interaction between scientists with an open feel and layout whilst being accessible to the public for lectures, exhibitions and a teaching laboratory for school children posed a difficult security balance.During 2017 when the building reaches full capacity it will be home to 1500 scientists and support staff.

Initial project meetings first started in early 2008, the clients owned a small cottage on the site which had been extended several times during the 80’s and had permission to make further adaptations. The mixture of building standards meant that their home was extremely drafty and very energy inefficient. The site itself is particularly exposed. The design which achieved planning permission was a crescent form which steps and slides into the slopes on the site. The crescent formation is in direct response to solar orientation.The brief was to design a building which would accommodate the family for many years into the future, the planned occupancy would be for 5 adults. Additionally, the home will be used for large family occasions. A requirement was set for a minimum 16 seated spaces to be available for dining during these family occasions.Op-Deck was added into the scheme very early into the design process as the way of creating the highly insulated structural floor as the house was being designed under Passivhaus standards. The overall U-value of the property is 0.1w/m2K as standard. The system was installed on the lower and ground floors and also the roof.

Brett Landscaping, a leading provider of innovative landscaping solutions, partnered with Darcliffe Homes on the Stoneham Park housebuilding project in Reading. Stoneham Park is a prestigious development perfectly located on the Western edge of Reading, offering residents unparalleled access to both urban conveniences and scenic countryside. With beautifully landscaped grounds and a variety of residential options, Stoneham Park aimed to provide a desirable living environment. Brett Landscaping’s role in the project was to supply permeable paving, specifically their Alpha Flow range in Autumn Gold and Brindle colours, along with Chaucer paving slabs in Buff and High Kerb in Autumn Gold to complement the paving. The Stoneham Park project commenced in November 2022 and is scheduled for completion in December 2023. The development encompasses a diverse selection of 1 & 2 bedroom apartments, as well as 2, 3, 4, or 5 bedroom houses, catering to a wide range of potential residents. The project aimed to create a harmonious blend of urban and rural elements, with a picturesque backdrop of open fields, views of Sulham Woods, and convenient access to Reading’s amenities.

Edgingtons Architects were appointed by the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead to design and deliver a new build sixth form building for Windsor Girls School. The external detailing of the brickwork takes inspiration from a mature oak tree that sits in close proximity to the building, ground floor representing the tree trunk and first floor the texture of the branches and leaves. Internally the building follows a simple layout with a neutral palette of cream, grey and light wood finishes.The ironmongery brief was to specify a simple, robust and affordable ironmongery scheme that would stand up to the typical heavy use of an education setting while ensuring the products were chosen to ensure a long life span. The scheme centres around our Vieler 522 safety lever handle and matching straight pull handle finished in stainless steel. We also supplied all door signage including stainless steel and black door discs denoting room numbers. The simple shape and finish of the ironmongery compliments the project aesthetics beautifully, creating the perfect educational space.Photography: Neil Kenyon

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’.

As part of Soundis’ ongoing work supplying high-quality acoustic flooring at various Premier Inn’s around the UK, we were brought on to provide acoustic flooring to their Penrith site, one of Premier Inn’s many new sites across the UK.Due to it’s service and close proximity to the Lake District, this hotel has become extremely popular in just a short period of time.Just like a number of our other Premier Inn projects, we supplied an acoustic flooring system to the 1st and 2nd floors. This superb system provides excellent levels of soundproofing while being used in a shallow floor build up.We also supplied XPS Insulation on the ground floor with a 22mm T&G chipboard overlay, maximising durability for the increased footfall.The system we supplied reduced the overall noise within the hotel, allowing Premier Inn to fulfill it’s promise of a good night’s sleep. This installation carried out by UK Acoustic Systems proved to be a great success, reducing the noise levels within the building and helped ensure the most comfortable stay possible for guests.

Travel to London Luton Airport (LLA) is being made easier, faster and greener with the development of the DART people mover.And the final journey between shuttle stop and airport terminal is via a covered walkway designed, manufactured and installed by Broxap.The walkway complements a series of canopies we created for the airport in 2019 as part of a bus and coach station upgrade.Together the DART (Direct-Air-Rail-Transit) system and bus services are designed to encourage more people to leave their cars behind when flying from LLA as well as offer sustainable travel options to employees.The 150-metre bespoke walkway guiding passengers to the terminal from the DART station is based on Broxap’s flagship ‘Newcastle’ design.The freestanding walkway features clear multi-wall polycarbonate cladding and is an essential element in the passenger journey, forming the final connection between ground transportation and the boarding of aircraft.A bespoke Hartcliffe Cantilever Shelter has also been made for the DART building to form a covered entrance area.Testing of the shuttle system is now underway with an announcement on its opening due in early 2023.

The ChallengeBowthorpe is a high-quality development of 174 new homes together with landscaped open space, community gardens and a children’s play area on an area of undeveloped land in Norwich.The development was inspired by nearby Bowthorpe Hall and explored the idea of an historic walled garden with homes built within its boundary.As part of the site’s high environmental standards, it was critical that existing features, such as important tree belts and hedges were retained while also accommodating a proposed network of cycle and walking routes.The SolutionForterra’s Breckland Reserve – a red, tumbled, wirecut brick – was used alongside flint on the ground floor of some of the homes to create detailed wall work that echoed Bowthorpe Hall.Traditional red tiled roof pitches sit above the wall and reference Bowthorpe Cottages. On top of the wall sit cedar shingle clad upper floors.Traditional terraces form most of the new homes, with flats provided alongside unique mews-style housing.The BenefitsThe building form, the materials selected, and the use of pattern and decoration, helped to create a visual connection to the local area.

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

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

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.

Dartington C of E Primary School in Totnes, Devon were in the process of having a new £7 million school built. The new development consisted of 12 classrooms and a variety of contemporary facilities which 315 primary school pupils and 30 Early Years children would benefit from.As part of the design of the new school, the architect was keen to introduce a free-flow from the outside to the inside. It was also important to them that they create an outside space that could be used throughout the school year.The only way to achieve the level of cover required, would have been to install a number of wall mounted canopies adjacent to the school’s classrooms.It was therefore agreed that 130 metres of timber canopies would be installed around the school, wrapping around the building providing almost uninterrupted cover throughout. This included using our standard Tarnhow timber canopies and adding bespoke qualities to them such as a 90° ‘hip’ (external corner) and a 45° ‘valley’ (internal corner) to the buildings’ entrance and variations in the post heights due to the uneven ground height.

The former Marlow Railway Station dates back to 1873 and stood at the junctions of Station Road and Lock Road. The Old Coal Yard, adjacent to a station platform now only present, has been developed and designed by Bellwood Homes on the concept of three converted Victorian railway terraced buildings.Broadsman House, Palatine Place and Fenman Court consist of three 2-bedroom houses, eight 2-bedroom apartments and one 1-bedroom apartment providing commuters stylish suburban living. Keystones brick slip feature arch lintels and special segmental arch lintels encompass the traditional and contemporary balance of the housebuilders architectural vision.ChallengeThe fashionable commuter town on the Thames has been well preserved, limiting modern styled developments to maintain its original character and historic fabric of heritage buildings. Bellwood homes wanted a sense of purpose for their regeneration project – reconnecting people with what really matters to them, property location and design. The vernacular architecture provides both. A prime location for commuters to ride the branch line into London, renown as the ‘Marlow Donkey’, and fits subtly within the notable context of Georgian, Edwardian and Victorian styles of architecture in Marlow.SolutionKeystone’s technical engineer designed extra heavy-duty brick slip feature arch lintels for ground, first and second floor openings with a 1085mm span and 543mm rise. Over forty brick slip arches were manufactured by Keystone’s production team to a high quality and consistent finish. Each Hoskins Maltings Antique brick was cut to size and bonded using a BBA approved construction adhesive to the load bearing lintels. The patented perforated lintel design allowed the adhesive to squeeze through the perforations and form a ‘mushroom’ on the inside, providing a mechanical lock between the steel lintel and the brick slips.The offsite economical solution did not require skilled bricklayers on site to replicate each traditional arch. This saved approximately labour costs of one bricklayer per arch per day and ultimately weeks of the project build schedule. All prefabricated lintels were delivered to site and ready for final pointing in line with the phased construction plan of the three buildings being erected. The arches produced in a factory control environment were unaffected by torrential weather and winter reduced day light hours limiting productivity. This can often occur on other build schedules which lead to further delays in creating architectural features with real significance to the landscape.The offsite construction method facilitated onsite construction further by supporting bricklayers to recreate window tax designs, bricked up window spaces seen in buildings from the Victorian period. The detail of the façade is prominent most through the repetition of window arches positioned symmetrically on elevations facing the Marlow station. Keystones heavy-duty special segmental arches measuring a 2400mm span, with either a 600mm or 450mm rise provide a modern contemporary twist which feature above glazed bedroom windows and are in complete contrast to the smaller traditional arched windows striking a balance between old and new architecture.Testimonial“From R&D to installation we found Keystones prefabricated lintels very efficient. They reduce brick wastage approximately by 5%. Typically, traditional built arches would require one bricklayer for approximately six hours work. Therefore, this reduced labour costs on site whilst supporting bricklayers to achieve the desired architectural design.”Matthew McGillSite Manager at Bellwood Homes

The newly completed 122 Waterloo Street development in the centre of Glasgow offers its occupants floor-to-ceiling glazing throughout, with almost uninterrupted views thanks to the latest Schüco curtain-walling system designed, manufactured and installed by Edinburgh-based façade specialist Charles Henshaw & Sons Ltd.But, impressively, the landmark building – which will be the Glasgow headquarters of global financial services firm Morgan Stanley – will also be one of the most energy efficient buildings in Scotland, thanks in part to high-performance glass coatings from Pilkington United Kingdom Limited.The scheme has been certified BREEAM Excellent, and achieved an ‘A’ rated Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), the latter based on a detailed assessment of the building’s energy performance. The glazing helps to minimise this by reducing energy emitted from the building, as well as the heating effect of the sun, both of which can make maintaining a comfortable interior climate more energy-intensive.A glass for all seasonsThe scale of the building and the large area of glass used means that excessive radiation of heat from the building could lead to rapid heat loss during colder conditions, requiring an increase in heating to keep the interior warm.To mitigate this effect, the glazing features a Pilkington Optitherm ™ S1 Plus low-emissivity coating which reflects radiated heat back into the building.The second issue that can affect buildings where most of the envelope is glazed is excessive heat build-up when the sun is shining directly into the interior. This can present a challenge for building managers, often requiring high levels of energy-intensive air conditioning.To combat this, a solar-control coating has been used, reducing the amount of heat energy that is able to enter the building while maintaining high levels of transparency. Michael Metcalfe, commercial sales manager at Pilkington UK, said: “The Pilkington Suncool™ 70/35 T coating selected by the design team offers high visible light transmittance, reduced solar transmittance and excellent low-emissivity all in one product.“This means the floor space will be brightly lit by sunlight but won’t suffer from overheating on warmer days.”Clear viewsThe coatings are not the only innovative part of the glazing used in the project, as the glass is held in place by the latest structurally bonded curtain wall system from manufacturer Schüco. Each unit contains a large pane of clear glass and a smaller pane of opaque, coloured spandrel glass, creating horizontal lines across the façade between each floor of the building.Michael Metcalfe continued: “The metal carrier frames in which the glass sits are extremely low profile, so the edges of the panes of glass are very close to one another. This removes the mullions normally associated with unit-based glazing systems, creating a flush glass surface with almost uninterrupted views.”The clarity of the glazing was further improved by the use of Pilkington Optiwhite™ true low-iron glazing throughout, which significantly reduces the slight green tint that is inherent in standard float glass.On the ground floor, Pilkington Optilam™ laminated glazing was used to provide protection against manual attack and increase the security of the building.Completed in December 2017, the nine-storey building also includes 155,000 sq ft of Grade A office space.Project: 122 Waterloo Street, GlasgowClient: HFD GroupArchitect: Micahel Laird ArchitectsCurtain walling supplier: SchücoInstaller: Charles Henshaw & Sons LtdImages courtesy of S G Photography

If you’ve ever seen the film The King’s Speech with Colin Firth playing King George VI you’ll recall it features the King overcoming a debilitating speech impediment thanks to the world-famous speech therapist, Australian Lionel Logue. In real life Logue practised at 146 Harley Street between 1926 and 1952. In 2020 the 142-146 Harley Street premises underwent a substantial refurbishment at the request of owners Howard de Walden Estate. The Howard de Walden Estate extends 92 acres and includes the freehold to over 800 properties and includes the healthcare hub the Harley Street Medical Area [HSMA].The brief for the Harley Street premises was to provide a self-contained D1 Medical building of 6,299 ft² across lower ground floor to fourth floor. The linked grade II listed buildings needed to provide accommodation suitable for a ‘first in class’ medical operator to work from, whist retaining and respecting the building’s historic character and charm. It was also noted that the restoration and improvement works should serve to enhance the overall appearance of the neighbouring properties and surrounding Harley Street Medical Area.Working alongside Howard De Walden Estates were Sonnemann Toon Architects LLP, construction contractor Whistlers Ltd and architectural ironmonger 3v Hardware. 3v specified, scheduled and supplied the ironmongery packages for both the traditional upper floors, and the contemporary lower medical area floors for this piece of 19th century architecture.“The project presented a challenge to 3v Architectural Hardware who were given two separate briefs. The old building needed updating while retaining its traditional feel and the medical areas in the basement required a practical and easily maintained product,” said Chris Taylor at 3v.Matt black and satin steelProducts supplied included traditional knob furniture from Frank Allart in a matt black nickel finish for the traditional areas and Vieler satin stainless steel furniture for the medical areas. All the accessories were carefully chosen in matching or sympathetic finishes. For example it was not possible to fit concealed closer into the existing doors and therefore overhead, surface mounted white closers were used to blend in with the door finish.Appropriate sash window furniture was sourced and supplied in the same matt black nickel finish.The client requested that modern fire signage on the face of the door be avoided if at all possible. Instead, ‘lollipop’ signage was suggested, but with the caveat that this did not comply with the guidelines of BS5499 and therefore approval from Building Control would be required. Samples were put forward and approved (two per door leaf were supplied: one for the leading edge and one for the jamb but only one has been fitted).The project was finished to such a high standard it secured 3v Architectural Hardware and Sonnemann Toon architects a highly commended in the Public Health and Education category in the GAI/RIBA Specification Awards 2022. GAI technical manager Douglas Masterson, who chaired the judging panel and performed the inspections of shortlisted projects, called this project “really impressive”. “The history of this building felt tangible as you walked around it and the ironmongery specified really tapped in to this,” he says. “The matching of the various items of ironmongery products throughout was exquisite and the matt black specified was an impressive contrast to the white door. It was a very sympathetic refurbishment which was a delight to inspect.”Photography: Neil Kenyon

“A great achievement by all involved”– Neil Turvey, UCL Estates Assistant Director Capital ProjectsOverviewUCL is one of the world’s leading universities, as well as being London’s number one university for Research Strength, where they have consistently led the way with not only their academic excellence but also their global impact.UCL PEARL (Person-Environment-Activity Research Lab) was completed in Autumn of 2021 and is a unique facility, designed to explore how people interact with their environment in a groundbreaking 4,000m² building. Sophisticated systems are used to gather a rich array of information which will help to understand these reactions and how they can be used to create a better urban environment for the future.PartnershipHAG Ltd. were tasked with protecting the building both through the supply & installation of essential fire protection systems, such as fire shutters & fire curtains and high security steel door sets throughout the building, located in Dagenham, in the London Borough of Barking & Dagenham.As a UK wide company with nearly 40 years’ experience in dealing with large scale contracts of this size, we were able to assist the main contractor by ensuring reliability, professionalism, safety and ensuring that the project was completed on time.All our fire protection products are fully compliant with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and certified to UKCA.All of HAG’s fire curtains have been independently tested and certified by the international fire testing experts at Warrington Fire, are tested to the latest standard BS EN 1634:2014 and marked to BS EN 13241-1:2003.HAG Ltd.’s steel doors offer an exceptional level of security, whilst not compromising on aesthetics. Our doors were made to the specification of UCL PEARL, to seamlessly sit in their surroundings and ensured not only security, but they are suitable for high levels of use and offer thermal insulation. The ProjectThe original UCL PEARL site consisted of various buildings, one of which was Grade II listed 1940’s. The new building is the first zero-carbon in-use building for UCL, and one it hopes will set the bar for future developments.Within the 10m high building, you will find life sized environments, such as a train station, village square, high street, even a pop-up theatre, all of which have fully controlled conditions and the ability to change materials, such as the flooring or wall cladding. UCL can adjust lighting, sounds and experiment with smells and the other senses to see the impact that these changes have on people. “A building that will be able to house the world”– Nick Tyler, Chadwick Professor of Engineering and Director of UCL Centre for Transport StudiesUp until now, assumptions have been made about how people react to environments, but this has been based on outdated data. UCL PEARL can now pave the way, with the use of sophisticated systems, such as eye trackers, brain scanners & accelerometers, to ensure a more informed suite of ground-breaking data going forward.UCL PEARL are already working in partnership with the London Underground and are researching the design of the built environment for people with dementia.Not only are there legal requirements and obligations for fire safety and protection within this building, but fire shutters & fire curtains should be regularly maintained to ensure they are suitable for intended use, they are safe to use, in good repair and subject to a program of monitoring & reviewing.This is another reason that HAG Ltd. were chosen to assist with this unique facility, as we can offer a full & comprehensive maintenance & repair service, to ensure that their fire shutters & curtains continue to work efficiently and with ease.

Of all our refurbishment projects, this one was one of the smoothest in its deployment, and amongst the most exciting & rewarding in its outcome.Lee Valley is a 10,000-acre (40 km2) Regional Park that offers sporting & outdoor activities, as well as the unique opportunity to get close to nature, learning & exploring its natural surroundings, gardens, and nature reserves.The Lee Valley White-Water Centre, officially opened on 9 December 2010 by Anne, Princess Royal, was constructed to host the slalom events during the London 2012 Olympic Games, and still hosts international events, attracting visitors from across the globe. Since 2012, Lee Valley has hosted the World Championships and two World Cups.In 2023, the ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships will attract over 300 of the world's top athletes to the Lee Valley White Water Centre.A local contractor who knew RYNO was impressed by our composite decking, our service & reputation, and introduced us to the project manager of Lee Valley Park Authority.The project was a full refurb of The Terrace which had an ageing & poorly installed wooden decking and a damaged waterproofing membrane that was leaking through to areas underneath. Some of the boards had already been removed to inspect the damage and reveal the extent of the work that needed to be undertaken. Such was the state of the decking that the area had been cordoned off and the café was unable to make use of this space!What was required was a like-for-like replacement aesthetically, which is why we selected & installed our TerraSmart™ Composite system, featuring our Classic Decking Boards, supported by high-load bearing aluminium substructure & RDA-C ‘Clip-on’ Self-levelling Adjustable Decking Pedestal, ideal for terraces subject to high foot traffic.We recommended Valley Provincial as installers who stated: "The TerraSmart decking system was the perfect choice for this project. The system’s ease of installation enabled our site teams to make excellent progress. From pricing through to delivery, Ryno where very supportive and we look forward to installing their decking system on future projects."The entire project was delivered on budget, on time, and, of course, by the deadline for the next event!

Emma House, Romford, a residential apartment block built in 2007, needed a new waterproof membrane for the entire roof area after the single ply membrane, installed just 10 years earlier, had failed. The specification by our clients asked for a cold applied system to be used during the refurbishment to minimise disruption to residents, while providing a permanent waterproofing solution.The ChallengeCore samples taken of the roof build-up showed there had been extensive water penetration which required urgent remedial action. Impossible to repair, the complete roof system had to be stripped back to the roof deck by Proteus Waterproofing’s approved contractor. The approved contractor installed a new Proteus Pro-System® BUR (built up roof system) incorporating Proteus Pro-Therm insulation, to provide a new seamless roof – an area of some 150 square metres – offering a 20 year guarantee.Why Proteus Pro-System® was specifiedProteus Pro-System® was installed using no heat, providing a seamless waterproofing membrane on completion. Proteus Pro-System® is a high performance, seamless and cold-applied waterproofing membrane for flat and pitched roofs. It cures to provide completely seamless waterproof protection and has excellent thermal and UV stability, making it suitable for use in all climates.Proteus Pro-System® does not brittle, deteriorate or discolour with age. It uses atmospheric moisture to trigger its cure process and unlike conventional polyurethane systems can cure under water, without gassing or foaming. It also becomes resistant to rain damage and may therefore be applied in relatively poor weather, without any subsequent loss of performance or durability – making it ideal for Emma House.About Emma HouseEmma House consists of 14 one-bedroom and 19 two-bedroom apartments just minutes away from the centre of the market town of Romford, which offers shops, services and a wealth of bars and restaurants. When first built in 2010, Emma House offered young professionals an opportunity for affordable housing close to London and has remained at the forefront of the property market in Romford ever since.

Project OverviewThe Percy Gee Building, at Leicester University, is named after a former benefactor and chairman of the former college. Over the last 2-3 years the building has undergone an exciting £13.1 million transformation and expansion. This is a multi-purpose facility, home to the Students’ Union, a venue for informal learning and a centre for refreshment and eating.PLEASE NOTE: BETTER IMAGES WILL BE POSTED WHEN WE CAN ACCESS TO THE BUILDING WHICH IS CURRENTLY CLOSED DUE TO COVID-19. THESE PHOTOS WERE TAKEN THROUGH A GLASS WINDOW. That hard-working industrial lookA main hub of the building will be ‘Campus Kitchen’ a new food court which will provide a range of varied cuisines for staff, students and visitors This is an interior occupied by Millennials and Gen Z and the décor needed to reflect their styles and trends. By using Amron Welltec “wave” or “corrugated” profiled aluminium sheet on an interior wall something new and unexpected was injected into the kitchen space. To take this ‘jolt away from the norm’ still further the designers envisaged not shiny metal, but the appearance of weathered and rusted metal – an industrial ‘vibe’ perhaps hinting at determination and hard work.Powdertech Collections includes a range of finishes which replicate patination/rust on metal, giving a ‘Corten’ appearance but with no rusty residue which could mark clothing and other surfaces. The client chose ‘Firebox’ from the Evolution/Rust collection. This gives a very natural ‘rusted’ look with no two panels looking the same. Powdertech applied Firebox to 80 m2 of material which line the walls and over-counter area of the Campus Kitchen.BenefitsEvolution™ Rust finishes can be used internally and also externally. There is no residue, and no run-off or staining from rainwater.The striking designs are achieved through using polyester resin systems, and a bit of magic!The finish can be cleaned like any other powder coating – minimal maintenance.We are passionate about colour and always keep up with latest trends in shade and texture of finishes.The Evolution range has up to a 25-year guarantee for gloss, colour and adhesion.Conforms to ISO 12206 and Qualicoat specifications.

Marischal Square Bauder Bakor Hot Melt structural waterproofingSynopsisMarischal square is a mixed use complex in the centre of Aberdeen based on the site of the former council headquarters building, St. Nicholas House. In 2011 Muse Developments undertook a £107m redevelopment of the site creating space for two new office buildings, seven restaurants and café bars, a 126-room hotel, a modern civic space and a new public space area in between the new buildings.Bauder Building BoardProject:Marischal SquareLocation:AberdeenRoof Area:5,400m²Client:Muse Development & Morgan SindallApproved Contractor:Briggs AmascoThe specificationWith large parts of the new roofing areas being accessible terraces and areas which will experience a significant amount of foot traffic, the Bauder hot melt structural system was a natural choice. The system was combined with hard and soft landscaping to provide the different aspects of the various terraces, stairways, podium decks and rooftops.The Bauder Hot Melt structural waterproofing system is ideally suited as a waterproofing system beneath paved or ballasted surfacing, car parks, podiums, plazas, green roofs and substructures.Project challengesA key challenge for this project was the fact that Muse Developments and Morgan Sindall, who were working jointly on the development, were looking for a single source waterproofing. Bauder proved to be the perfect fit, covering and delivering all elements of the waterproofing systems.The resultApproved contractor Briggs Amasco carried out the works on the 5,400m² of the separate roof areas, whilst expert Bauder site technicians carried out a total of 26 site visits over the duration of the project to ensure the quality of the installations. Following a final inspection, Bauder was able to issue a 20 year product and workmanship guarantee on the project.System installed1 BauderPLANT E 42Green torch-on root-resistant capping sheet.2 790-11Hot melt rubberised bitumen asphalt with a percentage of post-consumer recycled materials that infills and fully bonds to all minor deviations in the deck.3 DeckPrimed concrete.

The Sands - Durham WaterfrontArchitect: Ryder Architecture LtdInstaller: Pennine ContractsProduct: Durlum Polylam BafflesLSA Projects supplied over 300 linear metres of Durlum Polylam baffles to the new facility The Sands on Durham Waterfront in the city centre. The new riverside development was intended to move the County Council headquarters into the city centre for improved public transport connections for staff and other visitors.In 2022 the building applied for change of use planning to convert the landmark building into additional learning spaces for Durham University Business School. The change of use allows the department of the Russell Group university to move straight into the ready-made facility after delays with their original plans for a different site.The £50m facility has space for the 2,300 students and members of staff at the business school across the 1.4 hectare site. In addition to traditional learning spaces the building has modern working space for staff and academics and hopes to attract leading businesses to work with the university and graduates.Durlum Polylam baffles were used for the feature ceiling in the main event space. The ceiling is made up of 320mm deep 100mm wide baffles in concentric squares with the outer square measuring an impressive 20 metres across. Polylam pieces were finished in a Dur-Graphic faux Cherry veneer print and mounted in 9 double-row rings with alternating strip lighting and integrated ventilation systems.Polylam from Durlum is a versatile ceiling system made up of vertical baffles available in a range of sizes up to 100mm wide by 800mm deep. Pieces can be installed using suspension grid systems available from Durlum in a variety of ways including independent mounting and group mounting with regular spacing and options for demount-ability.Baffles are made from either galvanised sheet steel or aluminium and finished in a choice of RAL colour powdercoating as a standard with options for gloss and metallic finishes as well as Dur-Graphic and Duroplan printed designs. Acoustic perforations can also be applied to the baffles as well as incorporating Dur-Sonic acoustic mineral wool filling to the inside of the hollow baffle lengths.

Sound-absorbing ‘trees’ installed at Teesside University LibraryTeesside University’s Middlesbrough campus has benefited from over £270 million of investment in recent years, including a £6 million refurbishment programme for the university library. The library’s first floor was the second phase of the refurbishment, opened on 7 October 2016, and includes a unique and visually striking installation of CMS Danskin’s SuperPhon panels, designed to represent two trees.The ChallengeThe original building was constructed in 1997 and incorporated some sound absorbent materials; the refurbishment had to inject new life into the interior whilst also enhancing the library’s acoustic performance. The open-plan layout, which can have up to 450 students using it at any one time, presented a particular challenge for controlling the build-up and spread of sound.Class A absorbent rafts and baffles were recommended by Apex Acoustics to act as noise barriers as well as provide sound absorption, and control the spread of sound throughout the space. The space was zoned for noisier and quieter activities and acoustic consultants Apex Acoustics undertook full modelling to determine the optimum arrangement of rafts and baffles.The SolutionCPMG Architects, who were tasked with the refurbishment, worked to integrate the recommended Class A absorbent rafts into the library’s interior scheme, which used a contemporary palette of materials and a focused colour strategy. Two identical ‘trees’ were created at either side of the library’s first floor, using CMS Danskin’s SuperPhon Acoustic panels to represent the foliage.Circular panels of varying sizes and different shades of green were suspended from the ceiling and arranged around two structural concrete columns, to look like abstract trees. The panels were bespoke and CPMG Architects was able to specify the material used to cover them, and the colours. Some of the panels had to be made and supplied in two halves, and constructed on-site, due to their size. The ‘trees’ also had contemporary lights suspended from the panels, to represent hanging fruit.The ResultThe two sound-absorbing ‘trees’ represent a visually striking and unique use of CMS Danskin’s SuperPhon panels.Richard Thorpe of CPMG Architects said: “We went for the SuperPhon panels because of what we could do with them – the bespoke service gave us scope to play around with the design and come up with something quirky and interesting. We were able to create an attractive design feature which had a very practical purpose – to reduce reverberation in the refurbished library.”The project was completed at the end of September 2016 and the refurbished floor is now open to students.

OverviewA successful installation of 40 x Powrmatic SRP U Tubes at a hangar facility in Boscombe. With the system design by Powrmatic, ABS, a leading HVAC and installation company, was entrusted with this significant installation project. The installation aimed to provide efficient heating performance, reduce energy costs, and improve the overall comfort and functionality of the hangar.Project BackgroundThe Weighbridge Hangar Building 499 at MOD Boscombe Down operated by QinetiQ required a new heating system due to the life-expired existing system. The hangar required a powerful heating system that would operate efficiently during the cold winter months while reducing energy costs. A new Powrmatic SRP U-tube herringbone radiant heating system was produced in line with the design intent of WYG on their tender documents. J & B Hopkins secured the M & E contract and employed the services of ABS Ltd to undertake the installation of the radiant heating system. ABS Ltd, formed in 1978, offers a full range of professional services including the installation and maintenance of both radiant and warm air heating systems to both commercial and industrial properties throughout the UK.SolutionThe MOD hangar facility, situated on an exposed location, at Boscombe Down required a robust heating solution to withstand the cold winter months. 40 Powrmatic SRP radiant U Tube PVU50 Hi/Low heaters each rated at 50kW on a herringbone system layout with ducted fresh air onto each burner to comply with fire safety standards were installed by ABS Ltd. To maximize efficiency, the heaters mounted at an impressive height of 23 meters in line with Powrmatic’s design drawings were arranged in 8 lines of 5, with 3 heaters connected to one fan and 2 heaters connected to another fan. The heating system incorporated Powrmatic MC200 controllers and black bulb sensors for precise temperature control across the hangar.ResultThe final stage of the installation was completed by J & B Hopkins, arranging for the necessary gas and electrical distribution services to the radiant heaters and discharge fans. The 40 Powrmatic SRP radiant U Tubes installed by ABS Ltd effectively heated the facility, providing a comfortable and conducive environment for the workforce during the winter season. Additionally, the new heating system reduced energy costs and eliminated the need for multiple exhausts on the rooftop hence retaining the aesthetic design principles of the hangar. The commissioning was successfully carried out when all services were completed, providing a satisfied client with a capable heating installation within the hangar, for the exposed site location.

We have improved the drainage system at this lorry park and service station in this town to the north of London.  The problem was that the drainage system installed in the area did not have sufficient capacity to drain the rainwater, leading to dangerous accumulations of water on the road surface.Service stations and lorry parks have a constant flow of vehicles. There are also some areas where HGVs turn, making it necessary to guarantee the safety of the installation of the channels in order to prevent breakages and accidents.Good advice on your drainage system avoids problems and gives you peace of mind.In these cases, it is essential to have a consultancy service that, taking into account all the necessary parameters (location, rainfall, surface slope, weight to be borne by the grating (load type) and length of the drainage line), defines the model best suited to the site.In this project, 250 ml of Civil-F polymer concrete channels, model F150K, were installed for load type F900. And it has a grating secured at 8 points. It is important for you to know this.

Opened in 1977, Ocean Park is a marine mammal park, oceanarium, animal theme park and amusement park situated in Wong Chuk Hang and Nam Long Shan in the Southern District of Hong Kong.In 2005 they embarked on a HK$5.5 billion development plan that saw it expand to over 80 attractions and rides, and steadily grow visitor numbers, making it the world's 13th most visited theme park, and one of the largest theme parks in Asia.Due to open in 2019, the Hong Kong Ocean Park Marriott Hotel is being built at a cost of $639m. In addition to 471 rooms, the five-star hotel will include a 16m high aquarium in the lobby, lagoons, a ballroom and a rooftop garden. As well as facilities for families attending the park, it will also be equipped to host meetings and conventions. The hotel and water park are part of a plan to transform Ocean Park into an international resort.Lorient supplied DS acoustic, smoke and fire door seal and LVH44 air transfer grilles to the Ocean's Park theme park in Hong Kong.

REQUIREMENT: Able-bodied access to the cabin. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: We quoted and produced technical and CAD drawings, with reference to the finished floor height measurement supplied by the modular building company.END RESULT:Our expert installers fitted a step system as shown. FEATURES INCLUDED: Mesh Platform - self-draining mesh allows water to pass through rather than collect on the surface.Trombone Ends - these are added to the ends of a step system to prevent clothes catching.Telescopic Legs - these can be adjusted to accommodate different threshold heights.Standard Continuous Handrail - this handrail system ensures users always have support to hold onto.Standard Colour Black - ramps are powder-coated black, to create a durable finish that is tougher than conventional paint.THE COMPLETE RAMP PACKAGE:An all-inclusive, stress-free option which we managed in-house.This package includes a site survey (if applicable), quotation, CAD and technical drawing, supply, and installation. 

Hornsby House School, London, have recently had a full washroom refurbishment. Franke Water Systems provided a total of 67 washrooms products for the revamp, including a range of Dart Valley branded taps, WCs, flush valves, and a range of Miranit composite washtroughs for the nursery, boys, girls and staff washrooms.The full range of products provided were:17 x AT03-011 Aquarius DM A45 tap 2 x AT00-002 single station mains kit standard pressure 4 x AT00-003 two station mains kit standard pressure 6 x AT00-004 three station mains kit standard pressure2 x SOLX1800T 3 person Miranit washtrough with three tap holes2 x SOLX2400T 4 person Miranit washtrough with four tap holes16 x WC02-011 concealed plastic cistern kit16 x WC03-002 WC Flushvalve 

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.

This major expansion of the deep-water container terminal at Liverpool docks would significantly increase the footprint and capacity of the site. The site handles the world’s largest container ships and connects road, rail and canal networks directly to the heart of the UK mainland. As part of this project, external concrete surfacing was needed that would deliver long term resistance to the high volumes of HGV traffic using the terminal. After discussions with the contractor, the solution proposed was Tarmac’s TOPFORCE fibre reinforced concrete with a combination of synthetic macro and micro fibres. TOPFORCE can eliminate the need for some traditional steel reinforcement, making it quicker and easier to place. It offers excellent longterm durability making it ideal for commercial and industrial sites used by HGV traffic. This solution would deliver a saving in both labour and material costs and avoid the budget impact of the rising cost of steel. As well as improving the durability and structural performance, the use of macro fibres also improved sustainability significantly by reducing embodied carbon compared to traditional steel reinforcement.