"in situ concrete floors"

REQUIREMENT: In order to enhance wheelchair accessibility to the cathedral, it was necessary to install both internal and external ramps to overcome the steps.END RESULT:Great care was exercised when installing the ramps to preserve the cathedral's floors and walls. These ramps do not require any ground or wall attachments; once the components are securely bolted together, their weight ensures stability. Additionally, slip-resistant rubber tiles have been placed beneath each support foot.Should wedding parties wish to take photos at the entrances without the ramps in the frame, these systems can be easily disassembled before the event and reinstalled afterwards. This flexibility is a unique advantage neither wooden nor concrete ramps can offer.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 Rapid Ramp to prevent clothes catching.Telescopic Legs - these can be adjusted to accommodate threshold heights.Standard Colour Black - ramps are powder-coated black to create a hard finish that is tougher than conventional paint.EXTRA FEATURES INCLUDED:Infill Handrail - this product prevents children from climbing or falling through gaps.Yellow Tread - this is a safety feature designed to help those with impaired vision identify the nose of the ramp and helps users distinguish any level changes.Standard Step Unit - an ideal addition to any ramp installation, providing the access needed for able-bodied users. They can also be stand-alone units, independent of the Rapid Ramp System.

Vehicle and pedestrian safety barriers for edge protection on perimeters, ramps and other areas in three multi-storey car parking at a new shopping mall adjacent to the London Olympic Park.Berry Systems installed one of our largest ever car park safety barriers projects at Westfield Stratford City with over 7 kilometres of Berry Beam barrier, all mounted on our impact absorbing spring steel buffers.The £1.5bn Westfield Stratford City complex covers an area of 1.9 square miles and houses 300 retail outlets, 70 food outlets, 3 hotels, multiplex cinema, bowling alley and casino. It also has 5, 000 parking spaces across 1 adjacent and 2 integral multi-storey car parks. The safety barriers were very carefully specified by architects: Buchan Group International. The car park structures are metal framed with concrete decks with an exterior expanded metal mesh surround and cladding. All floors have our Berry safety beams mounted on RB1X and GH spring steel buffers to provide full perimeter protection meeting BS EN 1991-1-1 and BS 6180 standards.All the ramps in the two overground car parks have curved Berry Beam barriers to match the varying radius of the ramps. On tighter bends and at ramp exits, chevron signs have been mounted directly to the barriers. All ramp returns and split level areas are protected by our barriers, again mounted on RB1X buffers with handrail extensions and anti-climb mesh.

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.

THE PROJECTXE in Bracknell was looking for a solution to their ever-growing parcel delivery problem. As with many other places of work, various couriers were arriving daily to deliver packages, and it was starting to be a full-time job for the already-busy Reception staff!When Reception staff were unavailable, office employees had to attend to couriers and manage the parcel deliveries themselves. It was affecting overall productivity and managers were receiving complaints.SEARCHING FOR SOLUTIONSAs a forward-thinking office space, XE proactively approached The Safety Letterbox Company part of Renz Group to provide a parcel management solution. With some changes in personnel approaching, the company wanted a ‘Smart’ reception area that could enable private parcel deliveries to the office. They needed a system that was as autonomous as possible which would reduce potential distractions from primary office workers, as well as freeing up time for any new reception staff.ADDITIONAL EMPLOYEE BENEFITThe system is evidence that XE is a forward-thinking and modern employer, who wants their employees to feel valued and looked after.The convenience of having a streamlined intelligent parcel management system at the office also helps to reduce stress levels in the workforce and increase employee engagement. Happy employees are productive employees, read our latest blog on wellness in the workplace here.The system was powder coated in Traffic White (RAL9016), which is one of SLB’s many standard colours.Process for PurposeThe team at myRENZbox worked closely with XE to tailor the system process to work in harmony with the business requirements. As well as the option to develop a bespoke delivery process, there are several standard processes available.STRAPPED FOR SPACEThe space that XE had available for myRENZbox was relatively small and allowed for a system to be placed in an alcove in the reception area, just outside of the closed access doors to the primary office. Three full-width extension modules fitted the size of the area exceptionally well and would easily cater for the number of potential users. Now in situ, it looks like the system was explicitly designed to fit the space.

In Carpi, in the province of Modena, Atlas Concorde was chosen for the porcelain stoneware floors and white clay wall tiles of a luxurious private residential villa featuring spacious interiors and an equally large outdoor area. Six ceramic collections from the company were used to furnished the rooms of the house, employed in different shades depending on their role.Those who decide to enjoy the interior of the residence find themselves surrounded by elegance. Thanks to modern furnishings and refined colours, the atmosphere is a fresh combination of comfort and luxury.An important contribution is provided by Dwell, the ceramic inspired by the world of brushed concrete and synthetic resins, the perfect ally of contemporary and original architectural projects.Also enriching the interior is Seastone, here chosen in the Greige shade and in the 22.5x90 cm size. Defined by a simple look and multiform, varied traces of fossils, the surfaces of Seastone combine the uncompromising natural beauty of stone with the superior technical and functional performance of porcelain stoneware. With meticulous research and the expert use of mixtures of earth and flakes of different colours and sizes, this ceramic collection gives the rooms a natural, contemporary European flavour, mixing refined design, evocative materials and a guarantee of reliability.Also included in the interior design is Trust, in the Copper colour and Brick composition. With its earthy nature and rich details, stone invades the space, creating enveloping and suggestive atmospheres. In particular, Trust recalls quartzite and Luserna stone with its surfaces featuring intense variations in colour and texture, obtained through the use of the most modern and sophisticated ceramic technologies.Marble and wood alternate in the outdoor floors of the villa.The former thanks to Marvel Pro porcelain tiles, the highest ceramic expression of marble that effectively meets the needs of contemporary design. Installed in the dark Grey Fleuryand in the LASTRA 20mm slab, Marvel Pro stands out for its intense veins, natural shading and refined beauty.In contrast, the warm embrace of wood comes to life thanks to Doga, the collection that evokes sanded slats of oak, and Etic, the family that combines intense natural character and authenticity in a wood effect full of allure and history.

Kawneer’s aluminium AA®100 zone-drained curtain wall and thermally superior AA®720 entrance doors feature on all elevations of Unit 216 at the UK’s leading science park, while AA®190 TB severe-duty doors have been used on the main entrance. The unit was taken back to a concrete shell and rebuilt with a brick and glazed façade by main contractor Hutton Construction and is now the new home for Amgen, one of the world’s largest independent biotechnology companies.

Furnitubes’ Alta range was the ideal addition to newly installed concrete walls at the £90m expansion. 24 seats have been supplied in total, all as 1.5m module lengths to accommodate 3 people on each. 16 of the seats are the open back design for placement where the rear can’t be directly seen, with remainder being enclosed back versions which offer an attractive aspect from all sides. The steel framework to the seats was supplied in a galvanised finish that provides the ultimate in protection against corrosion and will be maintenance-free for many years.

Oscar Elite exceptionally smooth acoustic plaster used on Grand Design Series 7. Oscar Acoustics' experienced in-house operatives installed Oscar Elite acoustic plaster directly onto the original concrete soffit at a depth of only 25mm and up the vertical faces into the feature light lantern. The end result was a flat white acoustic plaster finish, smoother than most conventional plastered and painted finishes, which made this potential sonic battle ground a relaxing and comfortable place in which to spend time.

Addagrip are delighted to have been involved in the new Broad Walk project at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew with an installation of over 3000sqm of our innovative new porous paving system, Terrabase Rustic, The new Terrabase Rustic surface is hard wearing, low maintenance with no loose stone and provides a seamless, natural rustic SuDs compliant pathway which looks very much at home in the grounds of London’s historic Royal Botanic Gardens. Terrabase Rustic's innovative patented design means that it does not need a concrete or asphalt base.

Accoya was selected as the ideal material for this breathtaking home in West Vancouver. Accoya was used for the railing, siding, fencing and soffits throughout the property. In addition, an Accoya handrail was specifically custom designed by Upper Canada Forest Products. Unlike anything surrounding it, this home’s irregular shape and atypical residential building materials are more akin to modern-day South American projects that stem from their surroundings to showcase concrete’s versatility. This is why the Accoya was left in its rough state, to accentuate the minimalist and harmonious aesthetics of its natural environment.

The stadium is actually tilted on one side a little bit which makes a lot of significance. The slope is from the north end of the ground to the south end of the ground. And the difference in depth is 2.5 metres.This is where I wanted to arrive:With or without a slope? That's the question. Sometimes, having or not having a slope in a site, can make all the difference for the drainage solution needed. As you know, as slope limitations can be found in some places, but in ULMA we have a solution:The first Polymer Concrete channel with built-in 2.5% slope.

This bowling alley features a large application of LONDON BRICK AGED RED wall panels, providing a great backdrop for the neon-lit writing. Robust and highly realistic, Vtec Texture Panels are an attractive and extremely practical option for the areas with limited access for future maintenance. Another bowling centre in the group used our ROUGH CONCRETE Wall Panels, which also works really well. Installed in many hospitality and retail establishments, Texture Panels help to create a characterful ambiance in a short period of time.

Sika's full suit of products helped with waterproofing the scalloped roof at the campus. A combination of Sike Sarnafils waterproof Single Ply membrane, as a flexible and robust membrane, and Sikalastic- 621, as a highly-durable elastic liquid polyurethane system, was used. As well as the roof refurbishment, concrete repairs were also carried out with the use of Sika MonoTop-615 and Sikagard - 550. For the steel reinforcement Sika FerroGard-903 was also used. The refurbishment of the buliding was a great project for Sika to work on as it had solutions for each aspect of the project.

Langley Academy Primary School, is a modern 2 storey development which will house 630 nursery, reception and junior pupils in Slough Berkshire. To carry out the main works of this project, the sub-contractor was appointed to construct the building using a concrete frame and cement particle board, then wrapped in high quality external wall insulation and render materials from SPSenvirowall. Working collaboratively, this saw the installation of 1100 meters of 200mm insulation, which met the desired thermal performance of the building as well as contributing to the fire and acoustic requirements.

The flat roof area at above the vast Guernsey Power Station had been suffering from water ingress as a result of failings in the existing EPDM membrane. Due to the expensive machinery housed within and the potential for widespread and costly disruption should the leaking continue.Guernsey Electricity turned to Sarnian Roofing Limited, a Polyroof approved contractor, to provide a rapid and effective waterproofing solution. The Protec System was specified, and work began quickly.The SolutionRemoval of the failed roof coverings to expose the concrete deck below began, and the BBA-approved Protec 20-year system was installed directly to the concrete. Due to its RapidCure technology, the system cures within 30-60 minutes, meaning less disruption for the client.The Protec System provides an flexible and seamless membrane that eliminates the risk of water ingress around penetration points common in industrial unit roofs. As the system is cold applied, there are none of the safety risks associated with the open flames and hot torches used with traditional roll-applied systems.Polyroof’s reputation has been built on the high level of technical support provided to clients before, during and after every contract.We like to work closely with our clients from the very beginning of a flat roofing project right through to completion and throughout the lifespan of the roof. From our experience, this is the best way to guarantee that all aspects of the roof are finished to the superior standards that our clients expect.

One project with a challenging variety of balconies is Hendon Waterside in North West London, a mixed tenure housing development.  Situated alongside the Brent Reservoir, (known locally as the Welsh Harp, after a public house which used to stand nearby), the scheme involves the regeneration of a 1960s housing estate being built in six phases and scheduled for completion in 2027.  The masterplan will deliver around 2100 new homes consisting of social, affordable and private housing.  These are being constructed in twenty-three blocks, varying in height from three to twenty-three storeys – along with an imposing tower building of twenty-eight storeys. The construction of the many balconies involved vary in their design demands and to ensure the risk of thermal bridging is minimised, Schöck has supplied over thirteen different product variants. The products used here are for concrete-to-concrete and provide optimum solutions through the use of varying tension bar arrangements.  For example one type provides cantilever balcony connections and transfers both negative moments and positive shear forces. Another is a load-bearing thermal break element for transferring shear forces on supported balconies, recessed balconies and for occasional peak shear forces. Others transfer positive shear forces with point support, or transfer positive shear forces with point support and zero stress connection.

Smet Supported Partner, Hargreaves Group contracted to M2 Plastering, machine applied the LIDL External Render System in Waterlooville onto Poroton blocks externally using as Base Coat: Bauprotec 850 M – Lightweight Lime Cement Render and as Finish Coat; Mineral Finish Coat K.  As Key Coat: Change of substrate concrete/steel pillar/Poroton block or mass concrete and insulated plinths: Bauprotec RHS Multi-Purpose Render with the addition of Bauprotec SLP for plinths.The Internal Render System specification onto Poroton blockwork consists of a base of Coat: Bauprotec 850 M, Lightweight Lime Cement Render, sponge floated in warehouse areas and skim finished in sales areas. Key Coat: Change of substrate concrete/steel pillar/Poroton block: Bauprotec RHS is used.The LIDL render spec, available from SMET consists of:Bauprotec 850 M is a factory produced Lightweight Lime Cement Render, specially designed for machine or hand application produced to EN 998-1: 2010 and is CE Marked.Bauprotec RHS is a CE Marked, factory-produced highly polymer-modified render specially designed for hand and machine application produced to EN 998-1: 2010.Mineral Finish Coat – K is a CE marked, factory-produced mineral-based, high-quality finish-coat render, specially designed for hand and machine application to EN 998-1, 2010.Bauprotec SLP is a CE Marked, factory-produced Lightweight Sand & Cement Render specially designed for hand and machine application produced to EN 998-1: 2010.The special render properties; lightweight, low thermal conductivity, high yield, and Smet Supported Partner superior technical backup, are key factors in choosing SMET.SMET is committed to delivering consistently superior quality, German-made Render Systems to Lidl Plastering and rendering/plastering contractors across the UK and ROI.  If you’d like to speak to us about your Lidl job – contact SMET.All LIDL spec SMET Render System products are available directly from Smet Building Products Ltd, who ensures the contractor has a superior level of technical back up in the machine application of the LIDL specification.

Smet Supported Partner, Adston Construction, machine applied the LIDL External Render System onto Poroton blocks consisting of a Base Coat of Bauprotec 850 M – Lightweight Lime Cement Render, Façade System Primer and a Finish Coat of Mineral Finish Coat. The Plinth Render used is Bauprotec SLP – Lightweight Plinth and Tanking Render. Key Coat: Change of substrate concrete/steel pillar/Poroton block or mass concrete: Bauprotec RHS was used.The Internal Render System specification onto Poroton blockwork consists of Single Coat: Bauprotec 850 M, Lightweight Lime Cement Render. A smooth finish is required in the sales area, so either 850M steel trowelled smooth or skim finished. Key Coat: Change of substrate concrete/steel pillar/Poroton block: Bauprotec RHS used.The LIDL render system, available from SMET:Bauprotec 850 M is a factory-produced Lightweight Lime Cement Render, specially designed for machine or hand application produced to EN 998-1: 2010 and is CE Marked.Bauprotec RHS is a CE Marked, factory-produced highly polymer-modified render specially designed for hand and machine application produced to EN 998-1: 2010.Mineral Finish Coat – K is a CE marked, factory-produced, mineral-based, high-quality finish-coat render, specially designed for hand and machine application to EN 998-1, 2010.CASEA Bauprotec SLP is a CE Marked, factory-produced Lightweight Sand & Cement Render specially designed for hand and machine application produced to EN 998-1: 2010.The special render properties; lightweight, low thermal conductivity, high yield, and Smet Supported Partner superior technical backup, are key factors in choosing SMET. SMET is committed to delivering consistently superior quality, German-made Render Systems to Lidl Plastering and rendering/plastering Contractors across the UK and ROI. If you need to speak to us - click to contact SMET.All LIDL spec SMET Render System products are available from Smet Building Products Ltd, which ensures the contractor has a superior level of technical backup in the machine application of the LIDL specification.

The Darwin Centre cocoon creates a new architectural icon for the capital, ground-breaking in scale and breath-taking in its originality and creative brilliance.The design features a vast free-standing structure taking the form of an enormous cocoon within a glass atrium. The eight storey high cocoon houses a unique collection of 17 million insects and 3 million plants collected over the last 300 years by scientists including Charles Darwin, Alfred Russel Wallace and Sir Hans Sloane. The building completes the Museum’s life science complex, the Darwin Centre, following the first phase opened in 2002.Design TeamThe response of the architectural design team at C.F. Møller, lead by partner Anna Maria Indrio, was to create an engaging image reminiscent of an essentially organic form. The surface and texture also needed to reflect this, so the subtle sheen of the ivory coloured Armourcoat plaster was chosen. With an intersecting network of ‘silk threads’ that criss-cross the cocoon, the surface allows for movement and provides a visual framework for openings and niches. Armourcoat was specified to devise a unique creative solution combining both the insulation and the final decorative layers. The cocoon performs a genuinely protective job providing thermal mass to inhibit any fluctuations to the internal temperature – essential for the museum’s treasured specimens. The structure also houses state-of-the-art laboratories for 250 international scientists and an interactive visitor exhibition.ConstructionA sixty-five metre long skeletal structure was built by sprayed concrete specialist Shotcrete – the first above ground sprayed concrete structural element in the world. Expanded metal mesh was fitted to the steel re-bar framework and a 250mm thick layer of concrete was spray applied to create a 3,500 m2 raw concrete surface. Armourcoat then applied a resin modified render to the structure to minimize localized variations to the surface, before the polystyrene insulation layer was fixed. Using Dryvit Genesis adhesive and over 16,000 Hilti insulation fasteners, a 50mm polystyrene layer was fitted to the entire surface of the cocoon then covered with a layer of reinforcing mesh bedded into Dryvit Genesis basecoat. To create the silk threads wrapping the structure, a special cutting machine was devised which could cut an accurate slot and create the individual 340 panels which make up the cocoon surface. A total of 5.6km of edge bead was then fitted before Armourcoat’s unique AntiCrack substrate preparation system was applied. AntiCrack is a polymer and fibre modified gypsum skim-coat plaster which creates a first class substrate, keeping the Armourcoat plaster layer in peak condition. Two layers of Armourcoat keycoat were applied prior to the application of the final finish. The finished effect of a giant silk cocoon was achieved using ivory coloured Armourcoat Armuralia polished plaster - an exquisite, smooth finish with subtle tonal variations.The cocoon is a milestone achievement, a unique design and technical solution befitting the historic and social reference of the Natural History Museum. This also is a stunning example of the type of commercial projects now undertaken by Armourcoat, celebrating twenty-five years of creative excellence in 2009.Client: Natural History MuseumArchitect: C. F. MøllerMain Contractor: HBG Construction

Seating has been provided alongside the paths of Euston Road in Camden to offer pedestrians the opportunity to rest and enjoy the green space in what is otherwise a very concrete-dominated local built environment. The contemporary styling and robust construction of Furnitubes’ RailRoad made it the ideal choice for the tough demands of this busy site. Three seating units were supplied in total - all from the ‘Loop’ family within the RailRoad range - comprising two simple straight benches and a combination assembly of a straight seat with backrest adjoined to a curved bench unit.

The three-storey structure designed by FaulknerBrowns, includes library and exhibition space, IT suite, 3D printers, and café. The development, completed in October 2016, is part of a £100 million regeneration masterplan which partners South Tyneside Council with Muse Developments. Creating a curved structure can pose a challenge, but the Kingspan TEK Cladding Panel was successfully engineered to provide a smooth, highly insulated exterior envelope. To achieve this, the structural insulated panels (SIPs) were designed and factory cut into narrow widths. This allowed them to be quickly and easily fixed to the concrete frame.

Utilising our Advanced Paving mix, Cemex were able to save our customer time and money whilst meeting their construction needs. Cemex were approached by our customer to find a solution for an external concreted area to upgrade and extend the grounds at Blaise Castle Plant Nursey. The Nursery has enjoyed great success in producing over 2.5 million plants per year for local authorities and required the additional ground space to meet their continually growing demands. Please refer to the attached case study file for further information.

Brett Landscaping's Zeta Lock concrete block paving has been used to pave part of the Outer Harbour at the Port of Great Yarmouth where 24,000m2 of paving was mechanically laid by Tolly Paving Ltd. of Colchester. Brett Landscaping specifically designed Zeta Lock to be compatible with machine lay installation to enable large scale, complex projects to be installed quickly, accurately and with minimal disruption. This is particularly important for facilities such as ports and airports, which need to remain functional for the maximum amount of time. To view the whole case study please click the link below.

Delta were employed to assist on this leaking podium deck project. Following a full assessment of The Hub and its underground parking facilities it was identified that rainwater was entering the basement car park through the ceiling deck at multiple points. These points included holes that were formed to allow drainage from the surface, movement joints and investigation holes that had been created through the steel rib and concrete deck. Based on “as built plans” a system was designed post construction that would offer the same quality of structural protection had it been incorporated during the build phase.

Estudio B76 designed its new headquarters in an industrial warehouse built in the 50s. They kept and revealed reinforced concrete trusses and the perimetral walls made of bricks. The design focuses on using glass and steel to maintain the industrial atmosphere.Thanks to active and passive sustainable measures, such as photovoltaic panels, aerothermal energy, and efficient shading solutions, the project achieves high sustainability.From Bandalux, we proposed a combination of systems suitable for both the working and residential parts of this mixed project:, but Veranda Plus is particularly convenient as it completes without denaturing the former structure of the building.

Mace Group purchased the units directly and free-issued them to the steel frame contractor, VBH JV (a joint venture ofHollandia and Victor Buyck). Some of the units were 7m x 1.5m wide which Ambar Kelly designed to incorporate horizontal fire protection and drylined fire walls as part of the RiserSafe® system. This allowed for a group of shafts, or openings, to be combined into one unit, which reduced the number of trimmer steels and concrete beams required for walls, thereby reducing crane lifts and construction time. (Courtesy of James Reid Photography.

An extensive hard landscape setting for the new Tottenham Hotspur Football Club stadium. The large 11,000 m2 paved area has been constructed in a combination of granite and concrete block paving units. Although the area is mainly pedestrian the brief required that the units be completely and permanently bonded into position. This was achieved using Steintec tuffbond in combination with tuffbed 2-pack Type 35 bedding mortar to achieve a minimum 2MPa adhesion between the paving units and the supporting layers. Steintec tufftop Type 40 jointing mortar was used to complete the installation.

Park House Stables, Kingsclere, is home to some of Britain’s most famous racehorses. Boasting a rich history for training the best in the sport, the stables are also home to licensed trainer, Andrew Balding and his family.Situated in Newbury, Berkshire, the stables recently replaced an existing gravel track with a 500-meter-long, four-meter-wide, structurally-sound concrete access road.Sika was called upon for this project, working alongside Kendalls Newbury (part of Aggregate Industries) to provide a suitable solution for contractor, L J Morrissey Contracts Ltd.

The client was looking to replace an old wooden walkway. Their contractor recommended iDecking because of its low profile aluminium substructure and composite boards which require far less ongoing maintenance. The installer removed the old decking then used Wallbarn’s heavy duty MegaPad pedestals to underpin the iDecking rail system. These were screwed to the concrete lintels before the aluminium under rails were screwed into the pedestals. The laying pattern followed the architect’s original design, drawing the eye down the length of the walkway. This job took 2 weeks to complete and the client is delighted with the results.

EasyClick installation onto the Dunalastair Hotel’s large guest courtyard. Refurbishment of an old hotel in Perthshire recently carried out by London Developer Henley Homes who wanted to make better use of the ample outside courtyard spaces around the building, for functions and alfresco dining. Wallbarn pedestals were used in this project; they were secured to the concrete slab, beneath the deck, in order to give the deck strength and also to provide sufficient drainage capabilities, in the most extreme of weather. iDecking was then laid onto the pedestals using our exclusive “EasyClick”, decking solution.

Selfridges is one the UK’s most famous high-end department stores founded in 1908. It’s Grade II listed flagship store is located on London’s Oxford Street. Buzon UK were commissioned to supply and install over 200sqm of the Buzon ALUrail and pedestal system to the newly renovated roof terrace area. The ALUrail installation system offers a complete structure for the raised installation of outdoor spaces. The system can be used for various substrates, 20mm porcelain, concrete and natural stone pavers. Practical and functional, the ALUrail system can be used where the void is limited.

In the summer of 2007 the country witnessed extensive flooding with areas in England experiencing “over two months rainfall in just 14 hours.” Loss of water and electricity supply was experienced with thousands of homes. Providing protection against a 1 in 1000 year flood event involved building over 1 kilometer of reinforced concrete and sheet piled walls. As well as protecting the site from future flooding, the team at RHI Industrials worked in partnership with Lochrin Bain to ensure the security fencing system was fully integrated with the substations new flood defences.

Bedales School is set in an area of outstanding natural beauty on the edge of the South Downs National Park in Hampshire. Its new Art and Design building designed by architects Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios has a strong sense of countryside drawing references from traditional agricultural buildings by creating a series of connected barn forms. Their dramatic pitched ceilings comprise Troldtekt acoustic panels on one side to absorb sound and improve acoustics.In what is otherwise a lightweight building, the thermal mass of exposed concrete surfaces contributes to a stable internal temperature.

The Northern School of Art’s new Middlesborough campus is a development of regional importance, a major focal point for innovation and creativity in the Tees Valley.Located on a town centre site, the £14.5m iconic scheme comprises over 5,000m2 set over three floors, providing a range of studios for fine art, textiles, fashion, digital media, photography and 3D product design. Its concrete structure with exposed thermal mass, moderates the internal temperatures.Seven Architecture were responsible for the concept and master plan at the new school. Seven Director Simon Parker said, “To ensure a distinct and striking design for this gateway scheme we have introduced glazed terracotta panels to envelope the building which reference the long tradition of ceramics courses provided by the School. They also allow for glimpses into the building via long vertical windows which provide great levels of daylight within the art studios.“Once inside, internal finishes will provide the perfect backdrop for creativity; an exposed concrete frame and polished concrete flooring, coupled with splashes of colour throughout, will create a simple and robust yet flexible space for the students. The design strategy has been carefully established through extensive user consultation and the collaborative nature of this design has created a true flagship building.” Design, build and installation working hand-in-handBAM Construction were design lead and main contractor for the Project. Bill Mordue Interiors carried out the installation of the acoustic systems at the school. Jon Day of the firm, “We were very pleased to be involved with this prestigeous and innovative development. The work progressed smoothly with support from the Rockfon team as and when required. It offered Rockfon the opportunity to demonstrate how versatile their ranges are and how successfully they could control sound within this busy multifaceted setting.”In addition to the various studios and offices housed within the building, Rockfon acoustic systems really earn their place in the workshops, canteen, library, lecture rooms, busy thoroughfares and entrance hall where the pressures of controlling and containing sound in each space offer their own unique challenges. Challenges Rockfon is happy to meet, as independent research shows stress levels are reduced by 27% and focus is increased by 48% by improved acoustics.Performance, versatilty and beautyRockfon’s Jim Lundy, “Across all three floors throughout the school a mixture of Rockfon Universal Baffles, Rockfon® System Eclipse Islands™ and Chicago Metallic™ Infinity® Islands were installed in a variety of larger rectangular formats, sometimes alongside slimmer shapes, to work with the services already installed around and above them. In some instance, lighting and air conditioning are fixed within the panels, demonstrating their versatility. Rockfon Blanka® Activity B wall panels were also used within certain spaces to further control sound and help create the perfect environment for students to study, create, collaborate and socialise productively.”Ideal for thermal mass areas or where easy access to services is required, Rockfon® Universal™ Baffles offer an elegant and innovative acoustic solution. They have a smooth, easy clean fleece surface encased with corrosion resistant powder coated steel in two formats – two end-capped or four fully framed edge, and feature a multi-functional clip assembly which enables several installation and suspension possibilities. Delivering up to 77% light reflectance and diffusion, they are available in white or a selection of colours.The benefits of acoustic systems – seen and unseenThe high light reflectance offered across all our systems optimises natural light, aiding wellbeing and helping provide the best working conditions whilst minimising energy usage and costs. Vitally they all also demonstrate superior reaction to fire due in large part to the inert volcanic rock (stone wool) which forms their core. This stone wool also means Rockfon systems offer no sustenance to organisms which can lead to the growth of bacteria seen in some other ceiling systems.Rockfon Eclipse can be used as ceiling islands and as wall panels. Eclipse can be specified in a variety of shaped formats with a clean minimalistic A-edge and almost unlimited custom colour matching. Quick and easy to install, ceiling islands can be suspended by elegant wires, rods or fixed directly to the soffit.Seven Architecture Associate Architect Dean Murphy, “We felt Rockfon had a clean robust minimalistic design approach for both the suspended baffles & islands which clearly complemented the simplicity of our building design. Rockfon product ranges worked seamlessly alongside our design ideals for this building and worked well with our budget restraints.”The Rockfon Blanka range is available with semi-concealed and visible grid options for use as a suspended ceiling or as wall panels, offering a wide choice of alternatives for installation and usage. All embody Class A sound absorption (aw 1.00), 87% light reflection and >99% light diffusion and room to room sound Insulation 26dB-46dB. Blanka’s easy clean, anti-static surface prolongs product life and is non-directional, speeding up installation, saving time and money.Dr Martin Raby, The Northern School of Art’s Principal, “The increased visibility and accessibility of the School will generate benefits for the region and town, attracting more students and footfall. In turn, this will bring significant economic benefit for the area and help to redefine the image of the Tees Valley for inward investors, students, and visitors.”

This scheme was designed by the architects Hawkins Brown and constructed by Mace, who were very easy to work with and have a great project team.One of the main challenges of the project was the fact that is was being constructed during lockdown, and both design team and project team were all working from home, but because of such good communications across the teams, everything flowed very well. N06 East Village is located at the site of the former 2012 Athletes Village and close to the London Olympic Park 2012, so there’s plenty of sports locations nearby!The façade sections were constructed using a modern method that involves some manufacturing and assembly being completed offsite. They were pre-assembled and fixed offsite onto the precast concrete floor units and this new high rise construction solution, removes the need for scaffolding Because each floor is fully enclosed, it reduces project time and the risk of site operatives working at height and increases project speed time with less labour needed on site. This was especially beneficial considering construction was during the Covid-19 pandemic. It is believed that throughout this project there was 40% less vehicle movements to and from site and 70% less site waste created.*We supplied the original Quadra metal riser doors throughout the two residential towers however we have since improved the doorsets and they are now Quadra+. N06 East Village project has a modern interior with bright, bold colours featured on both the inside and the outside façade. Selo’s concealed riser doors were a perfect fit with their interior design providing a sleek, flush solution throughout the corridors.This project was one of the first major projects that we supplied our Quench fire-stopping protection to after they requested a factory fitted fire stopping solution. Quench is a safe and reliable solution that is pre-fitted to the riser door frame, removing the need to apply intumescent mastic. It has a 120minute fire resistance rating when used in conjunction with Selo’s Quadra+ riser door system. This solution removes the need to work inside the riser to apply the intumescent and thus removing the fall risk and hazardous working environments.*Source: https://www.cast-consultancy.com/knowledge-hub/plot-n06-east-village/

Danish manufactured Troldtekt panels are commonly specified throughout the UK and Europe to improve the interior acoustic environment. Two recent Danish projects are the transformation of an old building into a car dealer’s offices for Karvil Biler, while the other is an extension of Randers Architects’ own headquarters into a mix of offices and exclusive residential units. Both projects use Troldtekt® line with its perfectly symmetrical vertical lines to balance walls and ceilings with great aesthetics, conveying warmth and providing a modern look coupled with high performance sound absorption.For the Architects’ washrooms, Troldtekt® line was chosen to add visual vibrancy to the rooms. It also exhibits different appearances depending on the angle from which the wall surfaces are viewed. The edges have been milled where the panels meet the ceiling, around electrical sockets and switches and also at floor level where bamboo skirting has been integrated. All have been elegantly cut to ensure a neat finish and fine detailing.In the car dealers, Troldtekt® line was selected in order to enhance and benefit the whole indoor climate. “We wanted to create a coherent look. The milled grooves have a visually calming effect and contrast well with the new raw concrete floor,” the project manager explained. Troldtekt® line forms nine acoustic solutions that make up the “design solutions” range which combines the best ideals of form and function. Founded on the Cradle to Cradle design concept, 100% Troldtekt’s natural wood wool panels are manufactured in a new state-of-the-art production facility. With a variety of different surfaces and colours, they can be supplied in the FSC® 100% category (FSC®C115450) contributing to a building’s BREEAM, DGNB and LEED rating. In addition to their high sound absorption and tactile surface, the panels offer high durability and low cost life cycle performance, as well as inherent sustainability. They are also a natural, breathable material which can absorb and release moisture, which is why they have been awarded an Allergy Friendly Product Award by Allergy UK. Samples, case studies and technical information are easily sourced from tel 01978 664255 or visit www.troldtekt.co.uk