"hot water and oil filled radiators and fittings"

The ChallengeAs part of this strategy, the decision was taken to replace a fully-glazed non-fire-rated internal atrium with a new, high-performance fire-rated solution to ensure the highest levels of fire protection.Spanning five storeys, the atrium would create a functional yet architecturally stunning light-filled centrepiece within the modern office space.Forming part of the broader regeneration of Dublin Landings, bringing this aspect of the project in on time would be critical.As a result, Walls to Workstations were tasked with removing and replacing the five-floor atrium in just six weeks to see the project through to completion.The SolutionWorking closely with W2W, Pyroguard supplied more than 500 square metres of toughened EI30 fire safety glass to the project. Equipping fabricators with the flexibility to deliver on ambitious architectural projects which require large expanses of glazing, Pyroguard toughened glass provides protection against flames, smoke and radiant heat and delivers impact classification of 1B1 to EN12600.Complementing modern architectural ambitions, the inclusion of large areas of toughened glazing within projects helps to safely incorporate natural light into buildings, something which is critical in renovation projects where buildings are being transformed from their original purpose.In practice, this sees spaces flooded with natural light, elevating levels of light transmission throughout a building and having a positive impact on occupants’ wellbeing – crucial in delivering functional and inspiring workspaces.

A clear first BREEAM certified public management structure where the building interior design demanded sharp attention to detail; Technowood was a clear choice. The saving on solid timber was a driving force in the decision process. Certified FSC and A2 FR were also important considerations when compared to sold timber. Happy New Service Building was designed by the Architectural Bureau.The Municipality new service building has been designed with a creative understanding which explores an interior that maximises the room use. Therefore, the space has an uplifting positivity to the vertical design.Project RequirementsThe building planning consent required ‘green building’ credentials. Furthermore, BREEAM-BESPOKE criteria were used in this project and BRE-GLOBAL prepared tailor-made criteria directly to the specific building type.Turkey’s first BREEAM certified building will be public; this project is expected to bring a lot of innovation including environmental sensitivity. Thus, it is foreseen that similar criteria will be applied in the future construction in the development region.Further, the main features of this project are a passive air conditioning system and natural lighting, double wall and gallery, economical water usage, recyclability of the material where possible. The enviro-friendly green roof and environment considerate plant preferences.Technowood satisfied all build requirements, the planning was especially happy with the aesthetics of such a diverse material. Invisibly fixed vertical columns solved the solution of the curved nature of the design; as well as the speed of installation which made the use of this wood finished product even more cost effective.Technowood is environmentally friendly, efficient to fit, FSC, A2 FR. By using Technowood this project has a timber consumption by 98%.Credits and Further informationInterior design     The Architectural BureauLocation                     TurkeyProject                        GOVERNMENT MUNICIPALITY COUNCIL CHAMBERMaterial                     Alu-Click Technowood Beams

At this new-build shopping centre in Shepherd's Bush, West London, the new underground car park was experiencing high levels of water ingress through two movement joints that had failed. Newton Specialist Contractor ASF Waterproofing, who are specialists in injection resins and structural repair work, was therefore called in order to provide a quick solution and fix the leaking joints.Following an initial investigation, the technical team from ASF decided to use the 5-part acrylic rubber sealing resin Newton 324-SR to seal the joint, as it reacts to form a very durable and flexible seal that exhibits exceptional adhesion, making it ideal for movement joints.ASF began by drilling holes at angle into the concrete, and at regular intervals for the 10mm injection packers above the joints. The injection packers were then fitted to each hole, and foam backing rod was used to temporarily block the joint and prevent uncured resin from escaping as it is injected.The five components of the PC 509 Rubber Acryl are mixed to make two solutions, whilst the curing time of the resin can also be adjusted by changing the quantity of initiator used. The resin was then injected through the packers and into the joint using a three-component stainless steel pump.Finally, once the resin was cured and the joints were effectively sealed, ASF ground back the surface of the concrete to either side of the joints and applied Newton 106 FlexProof, a flexible liquid waterproofing material, to provide a final protective seal and finish the job.With two leaking movement joints in a finished structure, the client required a swift resolution to get the area back into use quickly. With the benefit of Newton’s advanced resin and waterproofing products, ASF got to site and delivered the sealed joints within the client’s tight timeframe.

Castlethorpe Homes is a renowned house builder serving some of the most attractive and historically rich villages, towns, and cities across Oxfordshire, the Cotswolds, and their surrounding areas. The Paddocks, an exclusive development by Castlethorpe Homes, features substantial detached houses nestled in the semi-rural location of Bramley. This distinctive project reflects their commitment to environmental sustainability. Beyond the construction phase, they have actively incorporated Bio-Diversity Net Gain initiatives, contributing ‘green elements’ to counterbalance the impact of their building works. As well as an additional 10-meter wild meadow buffer, the development boasts over 250 meters of native hedging, bee bricks, bat tiles and specially designed hibernacula providing shelter for slowworms and newts, Castlethorpe Homes also installed Hedgehog Highways. “Hundreds and thousands of homes are built in the UK every year, but how many prioritize environmental and social impacts? At Castlethorpe Homes, sustainability is not an afterthought; it is ingrained in our design. We collaborate with suppliers who share our commitment to the bigger picture. The Hedgehog Highway by Timloc is the perfect fit, allowing hedgehogs to roam freely in our green spaces.” Chris Warner, Founder & Managing Director of Castlethorpe Homes The Hedgehog Highway by Timloc has been designed to connect gardens, enabling hedgehogs to roam freely and forage for food, water and shelter without restriction. It perfectly frames highway holes to help state the purpose of the hole and avoid accidental obstruction whilst being a great garden feature. With every purchase of a Hedgehog Highway by Timloc a donation is made to hedgehog charities to aid their efforts in rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing sick or injured hedgehogs back in to the wild. To learn more about Hedgehog Highway by Timloc visit: www.timloc.co.uk For further information on Castlethorpe Homes go to www.castlethorpehomes.co.uk Photo: Hedgehog Highway by Timloc in situ at The Paddocks, Bramley, kindly provided by Castlethorpe Homes.

Franke products were chosen for the transformation of the renowned Elstree film studios. The solid surface Ronda washbasins were chosen, the unique curved edge of the basins are designed with the highest quality solid surface materials. The pleasing design fits harmoniously into every washroom while providing generous basin space and the ultimate in style and design. Chris Kightley, Project Manager commented "Franke always deliver the highest quality of products and this was a key factor for such a prestigious washroom project. As well as quality their range of Miranit is highly stylish and fits perfectly in almost any washroom environment."

A total of 31 Flexirol Straight Sliding systems were installed as room dividers in the Presidential Suite and as sliding doors in the hotel’s conference rooms. Soltaire 120 hardware was employed in the grand ballroom, with two sets of our Securefold 150 folding door systems fitted in the hotel’s restaurant. Phase 1 of the build also included the installation of 32 Husky 100 sliding door hardware systems, complete with soft close mechanisms, in rooms for the hotel’s branded residences. The 2nd phase of the development will see the fit out of 143 rooms within the same tower.

This inspirational building succeeded in redefining the London skyline before it was even completed. Invited to supply and fit for the exclusive private penthouse apartments, Majestic created a collection of Beyond Bespoke™ alcove, Wetroom panel and hinged door solutions in response to the engineering and design challenge posed by designer Daniel Goldberg at State of Craft for glass panels on an enormous scale. The bespoke glass panels were recessed into the wall and floor with ceiling support provided only with the use of our 50mm ceiling brackets. A high quality fit and finish for one of London’s most prestigious builds. 

QIC Trims, a leading manufacturer of trims for the interior fit-out sector, has designed window fitting solutions for one of the tallest residential projects in London - Foster + Partners' 50-storey Principal Tower in Shoreditch. The company helped the architectural team design and extrude in excess of 5,000 linear metres of bespoke Blind Box housing for roller blinds and curtains in the development's one and two-bedroom apartments. The product had to be turned around efficiently and quickly so as not to impact a tight site programme. Further projects are now in the pipeline with the development team.

SAS International provided the metal ceiling solution for one of the world’s greatest law firms based in Dublin, Pinsent Masons. White SAS150 was installed in the building’s commercial office space, as the product enables full service accessibility. This is an invaluable factor which futureproofs interiors in times to come. Other SAS products included SAS740, which was placed in meeting rooms to maintain a linear effect throughout the space. Shortlisted for a prestigious Fit Out Award Ireland - Fit Out Project of the Year – Medium Office, SAS are very proud to have worked on this build.

Architect: Saunders Boston ArchitectsProduct: Geschwender Lockers, Cubicles, and AccessoriesLSA Projects Ltd and Geschwender installed close to 1000 lockers at Wymondham Leisure Centre near Norwich in Norfolk. The public leisure facilities include fitness studios and a 100-station gym, a four court sports hall, a 25m fitness and teaching pool, as well as a spa.Saunders Boston chose 2 different locker and changing room styles to suit each space, reflecting the family, adults, and spa areas with distinctive colours and textures of HPL to represent each environment.

The small housing development scheme incorporated waterproofing a new block of garages to ensure they were fit-for-purpose for the four new-build apartments.

To meet the project brief, we knew that the steel shelter frame and canopy cover both needed to fit with the on-trend design of the snack pod.

The University of Plymouth aims to invest in the campus to advance knowledge and transform the lives of its students. The 'campus masterplan' intends to ensure first-class learning, research and working environments based on low carbon design. Dart Valley Systems provided products for one of its new buildings, Portland House.The full range of products provided are as follows: ·       13 x AT03-022 Aquarius DM A45 Doc M tap spout only in s/steel with copper tails ·       94 x AT03-012 Aquarius DM A45 tap spout only in s/steel with copper tails·       1 x AC01-001 Handheld programmer with USB interface with case – For use with all DVS programmable sensors & taps The university's objective was to look at water-saving and low usage outlets within the building, keeping with the institute's core sustainability principles in finances, reputation, services, and environmental performance. The DVS Handheld Programmer allows quick and easy adjustment of settings, including run-on time, range, purge and more. Real-time data can be uploaded from the programmer via the USB port to allow accurate monitoring of water efficiency, making this an ideal product for those aiming to be more environmentally friendly. 

BackgroundFor the perfect example of architectural excellence which not only delivered an impressive aesthetic, significant environmental benefits, and a more robust structural foundation, but also improved thermal performance, look no further than the eight-storey, three-building Building Safety Fund (BSF) project Devonshire Mansions.Situated in beautiful Eastbourne on the south-east coast of England, Devonshire Mansions were an extremely attractive choice for those wanting stunning sea views and some peace and privacy. However, due to their location in a high exposure area, the buildings were aged and weather-beaten, and required a full overhaul and refurbishment to modernise, align with current safety regulations for high rise buildings, and strengthen the buildings at their core whilst rejuvenating the exterior.Understanding and appreciating K System’s renowned ability for outstanding refurbishment projects, Pavehall contracted K Systems to completely refurbish this residential development and deliver on the following four primary objectives:- Remediate unsafe cladding- Improve the thermal performance rating of each home- Update and seamlessly replicate existing façade features- Deliver a solution with acoustic benefitsOur ServiceIn collaboration with Archiflair Design, Pavehall, and Fullers Plastering, K Systems delivered an industry-leading, insulated façade solution that fulfilled the desired criteria, achieved a U-value of 0.26 W/m²K and resulted in an outstanding architectural structure.The commitment of K Systems team, their continuous communication, in-depth level of reporting, and consistent presence on site not only ensured a perfect refurbishment, but also instilled 100% confidence in the supply chain throughout, showing exemplary levels of customer service.This project is a great example of how K Systems overcame various construction challenges to deliver within the agreed time constraints.The make-up of the façade had multiple protrusions in forms of balconies meaning that every sheathing and insulation board had to be cut to fit. Replicating this without compromising on the strict site deadlines was a challenge but under the great install team and K Systems’ expertise and onsite presence, this was achieved.Additionally, Devonshire Mansions had a problematic substrate and challenging aesthetic deliverables. Working closely with all partners, and utilising digital technology, K Systems mapped out the refurbishment and specified the ideal solution to Pavehall for implementation.Technical Project DetailsAfter a comprehensive scoping process, K Systems discovered that the existing system had a drained cavity build up and when removed, the sheathing boards were compromised by water. With the buildings being high rise, steel frame and multi-occupancy, the industry-proven K Systems Exicco Cavity Drainage EWI System was specified.In the Exicco system, the drained cavity behind the insulation ensures that any interstitial moisture escapes without detriment to the performance of the system. Due to their seafront location, Devonshire Mansions were prone to fierce rain and water exposure, so this system was the ideal choice to ensure any future moisture or condensation build up was allowed out to avoid compromising the substrate or newly installed façade.Once the strip out of the existing façade had occurred, further challenges were discovered – the substrate was far from line and level. This meant that every rail within the newly installed EWI system had to be packed out using steel shims to create a level vertical façade, subsequently adjusting the specified fixing lengths to suit.Some elements of the substrate were high strength concrete incorporating a flint aggregate which proved problematic for standard mechanical fixings. Via K Systems’ on site support, a suitable, more bespoke fixing was specified which ensured proper anchoring of rails and intumescent fire barriers. A swift solution was achieved with no detriment to the construction programme.The newly installed Exicco system was combined with the K Systems M (Mineral Wool) system. This high performing system provides optimal levels of fire resistance and noncombustibility and its installation at Devonshire Mansions meant that the fire classification of the buildings was upgraded to A2-s1,d0 meaning that the development is now compliant with the latest building regulations for all high-rise dwellings in England, further ensuring the safety of residents.Devonshire Mansions is visually impressive with its feature balconies, architectural cornices, ashlar panelling and quoin detailing. It was a specific requirement of the client to remediate the unsafe cladding without losing these exterior design features.K Systems created two specifications; one for the elevations and one for the balconies and provided bespoke detailing to allow them to seamlessly harmonise as one façade. Ashlar panelling and quoin detailing was replicated cost-effectively using varying thicknesses of non-combustible mineral wool insulation which was over-rendered skilfully by the contractor using K Systems Silicone Thincoat render.The more intricate cornice features were all bespoke manufactured using compliant non-combustible materials and integrated into the design with K Systems providing robust detailing to create a water-tight barrier and eliminating cold bridging. Decorative columns were installed at ground level to complete the façade.The eye-catching, waterfront dwellings were finished with Silkolitt+ - a versatile, easy to apply, water repellent, durable, and low maintenance thin coat render, perfectly paired and formulated for use with our Exicco systemOverall, K Systems specified a fit-for purpose, non-combustible façade with a high level of complex architectural detailing using cost effective solutions. The installation process was overseen by our unrivalled site support team who were frequently on hand to solve any issues as they arose.“Working alongside K Systems on a project of the size and nature of Devonshire Mansions was a true pleasure. From initial scope and specification to intricate detailing and innovative finishes, the K Systems team lead by example and made the process and delivery a slick and seamless operation. The refurbishment was a complex case but working together in partnership, we all delivered on excellence, and the beautiful Devonshire development is something we can all proudly put our names to.”James Fuller, Fullers Plastering

ASF utilised the ever popular ASF 211 Quayside post profile to manufacture a bespoke LED illuminated system for this site at Merthyr Tydfil. The finished product was a curved quayside post with 4 rails and 4 tension cables, with the LED lighting cassettes situated into the top rail, angled to provide down lighting for the waterside path. There were straight profiled versions made for the non waterside area to create a seamless transition between the water front and the inland pathway.

As a part of a large refurbishment of two outdated 1980’s office buildings separated by a large open courtyard, their new European Headquarters were looking for an efficient, reliable and stylish instant boiling and chilled water system. As the offices are spread across several floors, accommodating a large number of people was the key requirement.The company approached us with a clear requirement for an energy-efficient and reliable boiling and chilled system with a sleek design to match their contemporary break out areas.

The terrace of a central London pub garden is given improved cover with a large awning by Breezefree. The rear garden at The Fence, in London’s bustling Spitalfields district, is one of the largest in the City, giving the pub a unique selling point that’s promoted prominently on their website. Despite being a destination venue, the only shelter on the decked terrace area was provided by a pair of gazebos that allowed water to run off onto other areas of the terrace, and did not complement the venue’s design concept...

This asbestos cement roof was heavily contaminated with moss and lichen, following many years of neglect. Liquasil's asbestos roof coating, Asbestoseal was specified because it is the only such coating with BBA Approval for asbestos roofs. Also, the completed project came with a 10 year Latent Defects Insurance Guarantee. The roof now repels water instead of absorbing it and nothing can grow on top of the coating system, meaning it will stay moss-free forever. Call 0121 709 5352

A residential dwelling with a failing septic tank located very far from the property, no longer fit for use required a new sewage treatment plant.

In providing changing facilities for both production and warehouse employees, Stadco’s personal locker system, based on two per employee, was no longer fit for purpose.

Over 130 external stair nosings fitted in Belulah Hill, South London providing increased visibility and slip resistance for a block of residential flats.

The ProjectProject Triathlon was conceived as a new build warehouse development at DP World London Gateway. It was designed specifically for use by DHL Supply Chain, the world’s leading contract logistics provider. This brand-new structure would have an internal volume equivalent to 645 Olympic-size swimming pools.Shire Flooring Ltd was employed as the flooring contractor for this huge project. As the new warehouse involved areas which would be used for differing purposes, a range of floorings would be necessary throughout the facility. This meant that a range of flooring accessories would also be needed, to complement the different floorcoverings.The ApproachShire Flooring spoke to Quantum Flooring about supplying the accessories for the project. They would need cove formers and capping strips, to be fitted with resilient floorcoverings. Two types of stair nosings would also be necessary; one to be fitted onto wooden steps, and one to be used on carpeted staircases.Quantum’s QCF35 cove former would be used to curve the vinyl at the floor-to-wall junctions, protecting the floorcovering from damage at the join and making it easier to clean. UCS1 flexible capping strips were selected in both black and white for a mix of colour designs in different parts of the building. These would create a neat finish to the floorcovering up the wall.On the carpeted staircases, Quantum’s ZHF1 stair nosings were chosen. These heavy-duty profiles were fitted with mist coloured tread material, to contrast with the black carpet. For the wooden flooring, ZF125R stair nosings were used. These profiles have a ramped back, so they can be fitted straight onto wood or concrete steps without creating a slip hazard. Black inserts were used to contrast with the natural wood colouring.The stair nosings were fitted using Q-Fix, Quantum’s contact adhesive. Q-Fix is a single solution to fix Quantum stair nosings, with no need for screws or plugs. With a strong and durable bond, there is no more reliable stair nosing adhesive on the market.The OutcomeShire Flooring completed their work on Project Triathlon in 2022. By the end of the project, they had fitted an immense 3000sqm of flooring. They had also fitted 400m of Quantum stair nosings, and 200m of Quantum capping strips and cove formers.Quantum’s UCS1 capping strips in both white and black look great in the warehouse, with the QCF35 cove former assisting in protecting the integrity of the floorcovering where it meets the wall.Meanwhile, the ZHF1 and ZF125R stair nosings look fantastic on their respective staircases. With Quantum’s slip resistant tread material, they are helping to prevent slips, trips, and falls for the many workers at the facility.Shire Flooring did excellent work with Quantum Flooring products in this extensive project. DHL Supply Chain can be happy with a great design scheme, along with products that will keep its workers safe going into the future. 

The ProjectAmazon is one of the largest companies in the world, with over 1.6 million employees. It operates 185 distribution warehouses, or fulfilment centres, around North America and Europe. From these centres, Amazon staff pack and distribute products for its 200 million worldwide customers.A new Amazon fulfilment centre was opening in Knowsley, Liverpool. As part of the project, around 80m² of matting would need to be fitted in the entrance to the building. The matting needed to be hard wearing, and highly effective at removing dirt and debris from feet and wheels to handle the traffic of the many workers at the centre.The ApproachB & F Flooring was the flooring contractor appointed to the project. They contacted Quantum Flooring to discuss which entrance matting would be best suited for the Amazon fulfilment centre. It was decided that The Belgravia Matting System with black textile inserts would be ideal for the job.The Belgravia is a durable entrance matting which is suitable for both foot and trolley traffic. It is fitted with tufted nylon, which is fixed inside deep profile aluminium scraper treads. This maximises the dirt and debris which is removed from foot and wheeled traffic. The detritus is then captured by the closed construction of the matting system, making it simple to clean.Quantum’s Supply and Fit service was used to install The Belgravia. This meant that Quantum technicians measured the entrance area, and had the matting cut to the exact size to fit the 80m² of matwells. They then fitted the entrance matting, ensuring that The Belgravia sat neatly within the recesses.The OutcomeThe Belgravia Entrance Matting System looks fantastic in the Knowsley Fulfilment Centre. Because the matting area is very wide, the mats had to be fitted in a few pieces, with separate matwells for each part. Quantum’s technicians did this in such a way that it looks like one continuous system.This matting system helps to keep dirt and moisture from entering the building. The Belgravia protects the flooring beyond the matting itself, preventing it from becoming scuffed and worn before its time. It also helps to keep the Amazon workers safe, minimising the chance of slips and falls due to mud or rain which could otherwise be tracked into the warehouse.As The Belgravia is so hard wearing and easy to clean, it will be functioning at the Amazon fulfilment centre for many years to come. In fact, a 10-year guarantee is available with this entrance matting, for the peace of mind of both B & F Flooring and Amazon themselves. 

Products Used:One of the largest projects we have worked with Vox Ignis on was the fit-out of a 92-room luxury boutique hotel in the City of London that required an Emergency Voice Communication System. The project saw us fit out the development with seven different Vox Ignis products, amounting to 32 items in total.The products were easy to understand and the team were always on hand when we needed technical support. I have never had anything but positive feedback from clients when we have handed over the systems to them.

Loft Hatch with Youngman Loft Ladder ** We can make any size Loft Hatch ** Our Loft Hatch is supplied with a Youngman Telescopic Loft Ladder which is already fitted to the rear of the Loft Access frame for easy installation. Suitable for ceilings where regular access to loft space is required. The panel is fitted with a Loft Ladder No of Treads: 9 Floor to Hatch Height: 2170mm to 2610mm Load Capacity: 150kg (23.6st) Material: Anodised aluminium Foot Material: Plastic Opening: Automatic locking and release Certifications: Tested in accordance with EN 14975 Loft Hatch with Ladder

A Stannah Midilift SL has brought access for all in Air Extreme, the South West’s premier indoor trampoline park in Barnstaple, proving once again what a good sport this platform lift is. Essential for people who can’t use the stairs, this hydraulic lift enables access for all to two storeys of high-octane facilities, designed to push fitness levels to the max. The Midilift SL can fit where standard passenger lifts can’t – next to the turned metal staircase in this case, with both freestanding structures sharing the same ceiling aperture to the first floor.

Designed by Gilling Dod Architects, Ancora House is an award-winning 30-bed CAMHS unit. When it was being built, the trust specified a need for practical and safe en-suite locksets that were also consistent with the window and door handles. Our Primera 1-way SOS (Staff Override System) locksets were fitted on all of the en-suite rooms, offering superior safety by allowing staff to unlock the door even if the service user was to hold the turn/pull. P Plus our standard anti-ligature push/pull handles was fitted across the ward, providing consistency .

BDP approached Furnitubes with a concept seating design for the redevelopment of Thomas More Square. The designs were characterised by a complex arrangement of intersecting angled planes to fit into dedicated alcoves in the raised planters. From this concept Furnitubes designers developed the complex geometry by 3d modelling each of the 6 unique seating structures, and a complementary large scale wall-top platform. Seating was used in mirrored pairs either side of the main walkway and included flat benches, and seats with single plane and compound angle backrests, all custom-designed and made to fit the challenging levels of the site.

Howe Green’s 5000 Series access covers were chosen by interior specialists, Tekne Shopfitting Limited to provide access in The Tramshed, a Grade II listed building in London. The aluminium access covers were selected to provide a reliable route to essential underfloor building services in the Tramshed’s public washrooms and busy kitchens. Ensuring an excellent aesthetic finish, Tekne fitted four covers and inlaid each frame with resin flooring to match the surrounding area. The covers were double-sealed for use over foul drainage, with a third seal fitted to help prevent the ingress of dirt.

Contacted by the an army base with the request to prevent insects on site. We dual fitted every window with roller screens with insect mesh and black-out blinds.

FloSet Compact and FloSet 4-Port ABV fitted with FlowCon Green PICVs and E-Just ABVs work in unison to deliver an optimised indoor climate.

Laboratory gas taps fitted with the NRV (Non Return Valve) will save a school money and time when it comes to maintenance. Want to know how? Read on.....

Laboratory gas taps fitted with the NRV (Non Return Valve) will save a school money and time when it comes to maintenance. Want to know how? Read on.....

Project: Slimming World headquartersClient: Slimming WorldMain contractor: Morgan Sindall ConstructionArchitect: CPMGWith its newly extended headquarters in Alfreton, Derbyshire, weight-loss organisation Slimming World wanted to create a landmark building for the brand that would both provide an ideal working and training space for its people and deliver excellent environmental performance.Glazing plays a key role in the £8.5 million scheme, both aesthetically and in terms of its use of energy.At the heart of the building is a large atrium with a full-height glass front elevation and a glazed roof running right to the back of the space. Meanwhile, one of the wings connected by the lobby area features large ‘picture windows’ that deliver views over the facility’s attractive, leafy grounds.High-performance envelopeBecause much of the building’s envelope is glazed, the designers faced the challenge of avoiding the need for an energy-intensive climate-control system to create a comfortable environment for users all-year-round.Lee Shaw, Business Development Manager at Pilkington United Kingdom, explained: “The twin challenges any building with extensive glazing faces are loss of heat on cold days and excessive heating as result of direct sunlight when the weather is warmer.“The combination of products we have supplied to this project use advanced coatings cleverly to minimise these two effects, helping to smooth out the peaks and troughs that can lead to uncomfortable temperatures, expensive heating and air-conditioning bills and wasted energy.”The curtain walling system uses double-glazed units manufactured by Pilkington, incorporating Pilkington Suncool™ 60/31 T solar-control glass and Pilkington Optitherm™ S1 Plus, a low-emissivity product.The solar-control glass features a state-of-the-art coating that transmits only 31 per cent of the sun’s energy, while still allowing for 60 per cent light transmittance, so that occupants still get a clear view outward.The low-emissivity glass meanwhile features a coating that reduces outward radiation of heat, so that less is allowed to leave the building on colder days.Uninterrupted viewsThe same glass is used in the atrium wall and roof but is held in place using the latest structurally glazed units from Schueco. These deliver glazed surfaces with ultra-low-profile frames to minimise interruption of views from the building, as well as daylight flowing into it.Extra strength is added to the atrium glazing by including a layer of laminated glass on the inner pane, to help the large units stand up to forces exerted on them by the wind and potentially the weight of snow during the winter.Lee Shaw continued: “This project demonstrates the range of glazing solutions we are able to offer, with a combination of curtain walling, structural glazing and roof glass, all of which has been manufactured in the UK.“The architect has used timber slats to deliver some degree of solar shading, but the extensive area of glazing enclosing the space means there would still be significant risk of excessive heat build-up. The glazing specified minimises this effect, saving energy and money while also delivering a more comfortable and stable year-round climate for those using the building.“This is also one of the first projects to feature Pilkington Suncool™ 60/31 Pro T glass, which is now fully manufactured in the UK, following recent re-location of production from Germany. It’s great that we’ve been able to combine a made-in-Britain success story with a new chapter for a well-loved British business.”The completion of the building is the latest chapter in the story of Slimming World, which started when founder Margaret Miles-Bramwell OBE, then 21 years old, first began holding Slimming World groups in Alfreton in 1969. Now, 50 years later, there are 19,000 local groups across the UK and Ireland, run by a network of more than 5,500 self-employed Consultants.The new headquarters includes extensive training facilities, meeting and office spaces, as well as a brand new 550-seater restaurant for staff, guests and Consultants visiting for training.Paul James, Slimming World’s Facilities Manager, says: “People have always been at the heart of Slimming World’s success and so ensuring that our people – our head office staff and Consultants – have the facilities and environment they need to do the best job possible has been a real priority for us. The new building will ensure we have the facilities we need to train and support all of our fantastic Consultants who deliver exceptional service to our members to support them to lose weight and live healthier, happier lives.“Having large expanses of glass has provided us with a beautiful, light-filled space that will be comfortable and inviting for everyone who uses the building right through the year.”

Aluminium and real timber claddingThe best aluminium cladding for your private home, extension, renovation is Technowood ® cladding. It is faster than most cladding systems to install and has been available for almost 30 years. Tried, tested, analyzed and put through its paces in some of the toughest weather locations Technowood has proved itself a worthy product.How does Timber cladding weatherThere are many solid timbers used as conventional cladding, the main complaint being that the weathering is inconsistent. The colours fade at different rates which may look unsightly.UV light damages wood because it breaks down the wood’s lignin. Lignin is a component of wood that strengthens the cell walls and holds the fibres together. This process is called photo-oxidation.Technowood doesn’t suffer in the same way. This is because the manufacturing process of the veneer and the resins used to replace the lignin; thus negating the short comings of normal timber.You can’t really stop natural timber from weathering. However, with Technowood you can be assured of consistency.How to avoid water staining on claddingAvoiding water stains on timber cladding is something of a myth. Unless you maintain your cladding almost weekly there will always be indications of water staining. It is a product exposed to the elements and as such will be at least damp for most of the year; therefore will show water staining.Completed in 2012 this project is in Samsun, turkey. Receives full exposure from the sun and heavy rain (don’t think it doesn’t rain in Turkey as it does, it snows too). This project called for Technowood because it would keep the natural colour of the timber for much longer compared to normal timber cladding.Can normal timber cladding be warrantied?Under normal circumstances, you can’t warranty normal timber; unless it has gone through pressure treating or surface treatment that has such a warranty. These warranties are not ambiguous so long as the treatment process is followed to the letter of instruction.“The warranty for Technowood products is 20 years”.Salt Spray TestingSalt spray testing, a practice of checking the corrosion resistance of the surface of materials that have a coating. During salt spray testing, an accelerated corrosive attack is produced in order to measure the performance. This demonstrates how well the coating protects the metal. “Salt spray test has been done to our veneered material by IFT Rosenheim Germany and its succeeded.” Technowood aluminium and timber veneer claddingThe products available from Technowood are in standard width dimensions from 100mm, 150mm and 200mm. They look like real wood because it’s a real wood veneer. The product has very little to no maintenance; It also carries Fire Rating A2. This is perfect to future proof your propertyWe have a showroom in Sky House Design centre where you may visit for free samples, brochures and consultation.

It never ceases to amaze us what a difference a new finish makes to wood cladding. We have recently had a customer who was in desperate need of a makeover for cedar clad garden office & gym.Roger at R and A Pressure Washing has given us another great case study to show you and we think it’s looking amazing. When the office was installed 2 years previously, the customer had used Seasonite new wood protection to protect and stabilise the new wood. The wood therefore needed a good clean before a finish could be applied, as you can see:Now they wanted to complete the look and were straight back to Owatrol products with the help of Roger!Firstly, he applied Net-TrolBy using this powerful and fast acting wood cleaner and brightener, Roger was able to restore the natural colour of the cedar cladding and decking and clean it quickly and easily. Before starting work, Roger masked off all the areas of the building which he didn’t want to be treated.Net-Trol is non-aggressive and is harmless to plants, so Roger didn’t need to worry about it damaging the grass next to the garden office.Firstly, he wet the cladding and the Southern Yellow Pine decking with fresh, clean water.They then applied Net-Trol with a synthetic roller and then scrubbed the surface with a stiff synthetic brush.After leaving it to stand for around 15 minutes, the customer then scrubbed the surface whilst simultaneously rinsing it with water. You could also use a pressure washer, max. 60 bar.If the surface starts to dry while you’re leaving the Net-Trol to work, simply mist it with some water.If you want, you can repeat the procedure but in this case, the client did not have to.The customer then left the cladding and decking to dry for 48 hours before applying the finish.Next, Aquadecks was appliedA water-based penetrating wood finish that provides advanced UV protection, Aquadecks was the ideal choice to revive and protect this customer’s cladding and decking.One of the great things about Aquadecks is that maintenance is easy, with no sanding or stripping required.Roger applied a liberal amount of Aquadecks. He worked in sections that he could complete within 30 minutes, working in the direction of the grain.After the ‘wet look’ of the first application disappeared, he then applied a second coat of Aquadecks. He then allowed it to penetrate for 15-20 minutes.Roger then wiped away any excess Aquadecks that had not penetrated. This avoided it drying in shiny spots on the surface of the cladding.Aquadecks comes in a variety of colours but in this case the customer chose a Honey tint, which we think looks stunning.By using Net-Trol and Aquadecks, Roger has given his customer’s garden office and gym a makeover that has brought the building and adjacent decking back to life.