"internal shutters for doors and windows"

Royal Enfield is one of the world’s oldest and most famous motorcycle manufacturers, known for creating modern classics. The company’s cool and contemporary style is reflected in the design of its striking new technology centre in Leicestershire. Senior’s SF52 curtain wall system was chosen to create the dramatic glazed entrance. Slimline thermally-broken SPW300 windows were also specified, alongside robust, high-performance SPW501 doors - ideal for high traffic areas. The glazing package enabled the architect to create a sleek, modern finish, whilst the low U-values made a significant contribution to the building's overall energy-efficiency.

Brookland House is the latest refurbishment project by Beech Holdings, who are known for taking unloved buildings and transforming them into sustainable homes.Formerly a neglected office block, Brookland House now provides 25 contemporary eco-friendly apartments for both students and professionals. Built with sustainability in mind, the apartments benefit from an energy efficient glazing package from Senior Architectural Systems. This includes double glazed SPW600e windows, elegant and thermally efficient SF52 Curtain Walling with slim sightlines and arched frames at the head, plus robust SPW501 commercial doors, which are certified to PAS24 and Secured by Design standards.

An important consideration in the design of the new £20 Million sports centre was the site’s location in the stunning landscape around Airthrey Loch.To minimise environmental impact and make the most of the views, Faulkner Browns Architects proposed a 3-level building with extensive glazing. The eye-catching design features Senior’s SF52 thermally enhanced aluminium curtain walling to three elevations integrated with SPW600 windows and SP501 commercial doors for secure access.The new facilities have cemented Stirling’s status as Scotland’s top university for sporting excellence and are now enjoyed by Olympic athletes, students and the local community.  ‘photography credit Keith Hunter’.

The striking angular design of the £16 Million, five-storey headquarters for safety equipment specialists Arco, forms part of the regeneration of the historic waterfront Fruit Market area in Hull. To the front elevation, the stunning façade created using Senior’s thermally efficient SF52 curtain wall makes a tremendous first impression, whilst SPW501 PAS24 certified commercial doors and Secured By Design Certified SPW600 windows ensure safety and security.With its glass fronted atrium, open plan work spaces, social meeting areas and auditorium for presentations, Arco now has the facilities to meet future needs as the company continues to grow. 

To provide optimum weather and thermal performance and to maximise the building’s energy efficiency, ADP Architecture specified a range of aluminium products from Kawneer, installed by approved specialist subcontractor Norman & Underwood. The building’s façade features Kawneer’s AA®100 curtain wall system while AA®190 TB severe-duty doors were specified to handle the high volume of people entering and leaving the building. These were complemented by Kawneer’s AA®720 casement windows with louvreshields which provide both ventilation and fall protection. As the construction is a gateway to the city’s commercial area, the aesthetics were also paramount.

This mixed use development on the southern fringes of the Olympic Park utilised the Nexus® system to achieve flawless brick-faced soffits to the hundreds of door and window heads. Nexus is a two-part brick soffit system that combine a high integrity stainless steel brickwork support system with custom-designed prefabricated brick faced soffit units. Being 70% lighter than traditional cast concrete solutions, the Nexus soffit system is simply lifted and bolted into position by hand and, as the brick slip facing is manufactured from the same batch as the main brickwork, presents a perfect colour and texture match for flawless transitions.

Set within Blythe Valley Park, the new £7.5 Million scheme involved the construction of four mixed-use, high quality apartment buildings to act as a new neighbourhood centre. A high specification glazing package for the 48 one and two-bed apartments included Senior’s thermally efficient double glazed SPW600 windows to keep energy bills low, and Secured By Design SPW600 Doors for main entrances and access to balconies, to give peace of mind.Two of the buildings have ground floor retail space with Senior’s thermally efficient SF52 aluminium curtain walling providing a modern and welcoming façade. 

Parallel opening window vents by Kawneer were specified for a mental health project that is arguably without parallel. Some 88 AA®100 SSG parallel opening vents were used as concealed windows, to maintain the same aesthetic as the façade, within AA®100 mullion-drained curtain walling and AA®720 doors on the new £40 million London headquarters of the world-famous Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families.The Kawneer systems at the Anna Freud Centre were specified by architects Penoyre & Prasad as they were a “cost-effective” solution to their needs and enabled them to use the same systems for all areas of curtain walling and rooflights. The project has enabled the relocation of the mental healthcare charity to bring together its global expertise in practice, research and policy under one roof from its residential properties in Hampstead to a purpose-built facility near King’s Cross. This comprises a six-storey new-build and the refurbishment of a century-old former chocolate factory and warehouse.

Tucked away on the outskirts of Brigg, Lincolnshire, Scawby Brook is a carbon neutral, sustainable house that has been sensitively created for modern living and to complement the surrounding wooded setting. The home has featured on self-build TV show, Grand Designs.Designed by local architect Kate Kelly, the connection of the dwelling with nature was a key focus of the client's brief with the house featuring an abundance of glazing to refl­ect the natural environment and provide the best possible views of the rural landscape.A local project manager, Mike Hill was employed to deliver the project and source materials and labour from the local area. Mike specified Kestrel Aluminium window and door systems to provide a complete glazing solution for the project based on previous experience and the knowledge that this would oer the best solution in terms of the quality and budget demanded by the client.The multiple windows are a mixture of fixed or opening vents, with multi-point espagnolette locking PAS24 compliant security. Used in conjunction with low U-value double-glazed units achieving a U-Value of 1.2 W/m2K they ensure the building is safe, secure and energy efficient.

Elevating Office Excellence at Cannon Bridge House.Cannon Bridge House, a landmark office development, underwent a transformative refurbishment led by the architectural firm Stiff + Trevillion. Nestled on Dowgate Hill, the project aimed to revitalize the iconic structure, incorporating modern elements and upgrading its facilities. As part of this endeavor, Selo Doors played a crucial role in supplying concealed metal doorsets, specifically focusing on riser doors with fire-rated capabilities.Stiff + Trevillion embarked on a comprehensive internal and external refurbishment, breathing new life into Cannon Bridge House, now aptly named The River Building. The overhaul addressed structural upgrades, redesigned entrances, and enhanced the glass link between the atrium and the River Building. The yellow brick exterior underwent a modern transformation, creating a visually striking contrast with the contemporary interior.The revitalized Cannon Bridge House boasts a central atrium that spans two floors, crowned by an arched, glazed roof to invite abundant natural light. The convergence of diagonal glazing panels offers breathtaking views of the Thames River, adding a unique and stimulating dimension to the office space. The blend of modern aesthetics with original architectural elements, such as exposed brickwork and steel, contributes to the building’s allure.Selo Doors’ contribution to the project centered on providing concealed metal riser doors. These fire-rated doorsets seamlessly integrated into the renovated space, aligning with the vision of creating a modern, light-filled environment. The concealed design ensures a flush and streamlined appearance, contributing to the overall aesthetic harmony of the interior.The collaborative efforts of Stiff + Trevillion and Selo Doors have not only revitalized the physical space but have also created a vibrant and dynamic work environment that pays homage to the building’s history while embracing modern functionality. The concealed metal riser doors supplied by Selo Doors seamlessly contribute to the building’s aesthetic appeal and fire safety features, underscoring the commitment to excellence in design and functionality.

So here we have a stunning steel framed barn conversion stripped down and retrofit with a huge hybrid timber frame panel system manufactured and installed by White Haus Bespoke Timber Frame. These panels are made up of 140mm insulated timber frame, 9mm OSB sheathing with Passive Purple External and two 50mm cross battens externally, followed by feathered edge cladding. With the internal side then adding an additional 50mm PIR insulation flowing into the joist zones with one continuous layer of Passive Purple and 25mm counter battens for services. This 326mm wall build up has used both Passive Purple and Passive Purple External which meet in the window formers to guarantee the build its internal airtight vapour control and external weatherproof breather membrane. The Joints in the OSB, PIR insulation and fixings into the timber frame studwork were all prepped like always using the BRUSH versions of both Passive Purple and Passive Purple External. This fibre reinforced product allows for a tough hold and elongation on any shrinkage the insulation or timber may have with building settlement or extreme changes in climate. With only a score of 2.5ach required, Intelligent Membranes have given this wonderfully unique home the full treatment for perfect performance to keep the HVAC system running on low hassle percentage and optimal performance output.

The new Village Centre scheme at the existing Kidbrooke Village housing development in Greenwich, southeast London, has been designed by Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands and developed by Berkeley Homes. With a welcoming ‘village square’ at its heart, this green landscaped area is bordered by the surrounding buildings which have apartments above and a mixture of shops, restaurants and community use facilities below.The new Village Centre will provide a central hub for the community at Kidbrooke Village, which comprises four distinct neighbourhoods. Boasting a central location in the Royal Borough of Greenwich and benefiting from close transport links, including its own overground rail station, the new development offers a mix of housing from one to four bedrooms and access to a number of onsite amenities and facilities.The project also features an attractive combination of Senior’s SF52 aluminium curtain wall and low U-value PURe® Commercial Doors.The contract saw Senior work closely with two of its fabricator partners, with Soundcraft undertaking the installation of the curtain wall and commercial doors on several of the ground floor retail units, and R.E.L working on the entrances for both the new supermarket and pub.Ideally suited to meet the demands of commercial projects, the popular SF52 aluminium curtain wall system offers slim sightlines to maximise daylighting and enhanced thermal-efficiency to help create more comfortable interior spaces. When used in conjunction with the PURe® Commercial Door, which is part of the Senior’s patented PURe® range of low U-value aluminium doors and windows, further savings can be made in terms of reducing both operational costs and carbon emissions. As Senior’s largest, strongest and most robust commercial door, the thermally-efficient PURe® Commercial Door is ideally suited for high traffic retail environments and offers both security and safety.

The Project That Harnessed Evolve ZeroThis residential project used Evolve Zero blinds to replace existing blind systems for a set of bifold doors.Evolve Zero blinds are one of the most high quality solutions on the market when it comes to covering large windows or doors.They are a solution unique to Umbra, being equipped with an anti-bending technology which allows the Evolve Zero to cover spaces monumentally larger than previously possible.Problems regular blinds face when covering large areas:The blind fabric sagging inwards.The roller mechanism becoming too large.The top mechanism bends out of shape with the weight of the blind.Benefits of the new anti-bending technology:Blinds can cover up to 5 meters horizontally.Mechanisms are more compact.There is less light leak than using two blinds to cover the same area.This project shows that Evolve Zero blinds are the perfect solution when covering large areas of glazing.

Royal Arsenal Riverside sits at the heart of Woolwich and occupies a prime location along the River Thames.The development is delivering 562 apartments and ground-floor commercial space on a 1.1ha site that forms part of the wider Royal Arsenal Waterfront. The scheme comprises three buildings of varying heights over a common single-storey basement.The ambitious waterfront scheme transforms an underused parcel of land into a new, thriving neighbourhood that enhances its surroundings. It is located at the end of the new linear park which aspires to establish a unique relationship between town and water; linking the town centre in the south to the river frontage in the north.Our high-performance metal riser doorset, Quadra was used throughout the development. Perfect for concealing fire-rated riser doors, access panels, and internal doors in corridors, landings, and other access areas; Quadra+ is supplied as an integral, four-sided frame and door system, pre-constructed to form a single robust unit. Ideal for hidden commercial access solutions, Quadra+ is designed and manufactured to the highest standards.A design innovation – Quadra+ is the original riser doorset from Selo, now featuring an Adjustable Frame to enhance installation speed and fire compliance. The screw-operated adjuster bolts allow for simple and secure Quadra+ frame installation.

Victoria Chambers is nestled in the heart of Westminster, offering a taste of quintessential London Life within a wider neighbourhood of political and royal grandeur characterised by the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace. This mainly pedestrianised cobbled street hosts a vibrant weekday market and is home to the newly revitalised Victoria Chambers – previously office suites, now refurbished and returned to their original residential purpose.Step inside and be amazed at the light that permeates through these revitalised spaces. Superb planning has maximised the living areas and ceilings have been enhanced to draw attention to their impressive heights. The feeling is contemporary chic, yet remains a sense of tradition with some fine period detailing. The interiors have been designed with the charm of the building’s street in mind, from making features of the loft like windows, to the chevron patterned tiling mimicking the cobbled street. The overall look and feel has great charisma, in keeping with its environment.Selo played a key part in this development as both Arriva and Enigma doors were installed. Arriva stands out as an exceptionally versatile doorset featuring an outward-opening action. When positioned in front of the concealed flush side, the door gracefully swings open towards you, adding to its user-friendly and adaptable design.Enigma Pocket Doors are recognised space savers and allow the occupiers to use the full footprint of the rooms where they are installed. A conventional door will need a radius of around three feet to open which means around 10 square foot of space needs to be kept free for the door to function. This is all space that could be used for something else.

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

It’s prime time for the education sector to refurbish and service institutions. Helmsman manufactured and installed almost 200 new laminate lockers in a high school in Manchester. These laminate lockers were extra heavy duty. Having ‘extra’ heavy-duty lockers means that the laminate doors inset into the locker frame and creates extra durability. The advanced locking design provides a return lip within the internal door frame for the hooked cam to lock behind. In addition, there is a locking slot in the door frame upright that enables secure locking in two places. These stable and fire retardant four compartment lockers have created storage for 776 students.The Laminate used was Arpa Fucisa, which makes the corridors pop. The laminate lockers are all standard sizes of 1775mm high x 300mm wide x 450mm deep. This project included a standard 150 mm stand with the rear leg which has been cladded with matching laminate panels to have a fully secure, clean and aesthetically pleasing effect. Arpa Fucisa also used for the sidewall to locker infill. Chorlton school chose to have engraved numbers on each locker door. Using this solution for numbering protects the lockers from vandalism.Helmsman is the leading manufacturer of a complete range of lockers and cubicles in the UK and a specialist in providing solutions across different sectors from leisure, healthcare and education through to commercial, retail, construction and industrial. With a dedicated and experienced in-house design team supported by its on-site factory, the company produces high-quality lockers manufactured for each project.

The extraordinary, purpose built SuperLab in Oxford provides much needed lab space and fantastic facilities for the next generation of science entrepreneurs and innovators. The new state-of-the-art building is located close to the city centre and the university, which spins out around 15 science firms a year. Created and built by Oxford-based Robin Swailes Design and Development, the SuperLab offers almost 7,000 sq ft of accommodation for up to 84 staff and blends contemporary design with the latest efficiency features while meeting the needs of the modern workforce. The building is made of 95 per cent recycled aluminium and features a grey water system using collected rainwater to flush the toilets, thermal efficient panelling, air source heat pumps and solar panels to minimise its carbon footprint and keep running costs as low as possible. Metal Technology Ltd supplied a range of its high-performance glazing products for this unique development via approved fabricator Alternative Windows. Products used were: System 17 Curtain Walling, System 5-35Hi Tilt Turn Windows, System 4-35Hi Fixed Casement Windows and System 10-35 Thermally Broken Commercial Doors. Curved walls, round windows and open ceilings create a sense of space and wellbeing, topped off with advanced acoustics, quality finishing touches and a playful interior. The result is an inspiring and design-focused workplace that encourages collaboration. Outside, a roof top recreation area provides space for al fresco meetings, eating and drinking with views over Oxford’s Dreaming Spires. A fantastic project to have been involved in, which ultimately encourages young and innovative science pioneers to stay and further their career on home soil.

The new Brookfield Business School 7-acre Campus brings together a sympathetically restored, 19th century mansion with a new three-storey three-gabled, copper clad extension and elliptical lecture theatre. Senior’s slim profile SF52 thermally enhanced curtain walling and SPW600 Windows were used throughout the extension to create a comfortable, light and airy environment. For the main entrances, Senior’s robust SPW501 Commercial Doors provide both security and longevity for these high traffic areas. This was a complex project which required precision, close co-operation between all sub-contractors and 3D BIM modelling to ensure co-ordination of all the elements involved.

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

For nearly 90 years, Santens has helped building contractors buy the right hardware and tools for the job. Their success is built on supplying comprehensive solutions to the building and joinery sector across Belgium. As well as store-based operations, Santens supports loyal customers with sales representatives; offers a project management service; and runs a web shop. Click the link to read more.

A beautiful timber frame house, made of Western Red Cedar based in Kings Langley. Kings Langley, Hertfordshire is the birthplace of Ovaltine, the soothing malt drink. The village is divided by the River Gade and endowed with a couple of beautiful lakes.It is here, at one of these lakes, that a charming timber garden house is fitted with beautiful wooden louvres. By Sunshield, in collaboration with Contrasol. We were delighted to assist the owners with custom made external louvres to provide the a much needed perfect solution to reduce glare. Our client is sensitive to light and needed an effective shading product to specifically reduce sunlight entering the internal space.Our client was looking for something to be able to control light as well as a solution to fully block out light at night. The windows are South facing; therefore the louvres were also perfect for shading purposes and heat reduction.The Sunshield team applied the popular 98W which is made from Western Red Cedar to compliment the overall building.

Alison Park Hotel is a conversion of a former hotel to a complete renovation of the building creating ten new apartments and a townhouse. The project also included a new building extension to a further townhouse, as well as a revamping of the garages into 3 cottages. Situated in the centre of the picturesque and well-known spa town of Buxton, Alison Park Hotel benefits from features such as mock timber framing, and oriel windows and doors.Cellecta ScreedBoard 28 was specified for this project due to its unrivalled performance. The unique interlocking edges on our ScreedBoard 28 mean that no screws are required, making it easy to install, a convenience on site saving installation time.Amos Group was awarded this 1,500m² contract to develop this refurbishment and extension.

VANDALISM to schools’ property is a continuing issue but one that is being addressed by Premier Security & Fire Ltd.Working in partnership with Swedish company Hammerglass, Essex-based Premier is providing security options that include unbreakable glass for windows and doors. Several London schools and colleges that have been repeat victims of vandalism have already engaged the company to replace existing installations.Hammerglass is 300 times stronger than traditional glass and weighs half as much. Premier Security & Fire Ltd manufacture and install their own designs, including security options that reach counter-terrorism threat level.If you would like more information, call us on 0208 559 8295.#UnbreakableGlass #SchoolsSecurity #Facades

Situated in one of the most expensive boroughs in the Capital, this grade 2 listed building houses 24 luxury apartments, and 1 penthouse across its 6 floors.This building was ahead of its time in 2008-10, with a curved façade and panoramic views for each apartment, designed by award-winning architects Dixon Jones. Dixon Jones Architects closed its door in September 2020 after 30 years. The architects state they were negatively affected by the Covid-19 pandemic and were both in their 80s when they closed. Some of their most famous projects include the Royal Opera House, National Gallery and Oxford and Cambridge Universities to name a few.The prices of the apartments range between £1-2 million and its understandable when the interior features contemporary finishes, full-height windows, balconies with private terraces, lift access and a car parking space. It’s set in an ideal location with 3 stations all within 0.6 miles and Chelsea football club, and Westminster hospital both within walking distance.We worked with the Architects to reach the solution of our timber leaf riser door system, Una. This allowed them to fit standard ironmongery including locks, flush bolts, and handles. The architect chose to go with our butt hinges to allow for a contemporary finish to match the interiors, although these riser doors were installed in the corridors.

Our team at Helmsman manufactured and installed 30 two-compartment solid-grade laminate lockers at Doug Philips Ltd. The specification of the lockers was 1800mm high, 300mm wide, and 450mm deep. The clients requested for the two-compartment lockers to be manufactured with an internal shelf and angled shoe tray within the lockers. Additionally, all the lockers had a perforated base which allows airflow into and out of the lockers.The body of the lockers was powder coated in ‘Black’ which is from our standard colours, whereas the laminate doors are in colour ‘Artic White’ by BioCarbon Laminate, which is a beautiful colour providing an aesthetic and organised area. The laminate lockers were completed with vinyl numbering as well as Lowe & Fletchers Nimbus combination lock in Black.

Due to proven technology and a proven track record, AkzoNobel was chosen to supply fire and corrosion protection coatings for the Akpo FPSO.The vessel is 310 meters in length with facilities for 240 crew members and storage for two million barrels of oil. With two processing trains for the separation of oil and water, and an average production capacity of 225,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day, the Akpo FPSO is a high-value installation. The risk of catastrophic hydrocarbon fires was a significant concern during construction, as was the risk of metal corrosion in the harsh offshore conditions.With outstanding technical knowledge and a long, successful track record in the new-build FPSO market, AkzoNobel was selected as the protective coatings supplier for the project. Chosen from the market-leading Chartek range of fire protection products, Chartek 7 is a light-weight epoxy intumescent ideal for providing PFP (Passive Fire Protection) in offshore installations, due to its excellent water and chemical resistance.

The recently refurbished reception of 25 Copthall Avenue by QOB Interiors and John Robertson Architects for developer Helix, includes new floor to ceiling glass, contemporary signage, virtual daylight luminaries and a stunning 120m2 curved Armourcoat 'KonCrete' polished plaster wall to create a striking entrance.The hand-applied polished plaster wall leads through into the transformed reception area, with a design feature that incorporates a custom stencil of the office address. The full height atrium floods light into the heart of the building creating a bright, spacious environment with a business lounge and in-house café.Armourcoat ‘KonCrete’ is an urban range of polished plaster colours and finishes designed for contemporary projects. The range offers a wealth of design options to achieve a distinctive modern look, including distressed effects or recessed ‘shutter’ markings. Photography: © Photobanks

When HSP Architects and Price & Myers wanted to transform a listed commercial basement in Temple Fortune to create a new community centre, they needed to look no further than Newton Specialist Contractor Arti Construction to perform the waterproofing.ning three of the walls were either fully or partially below-ground and suffering from water penetration. Arti recommended the Newton CDM System, as it is the most safe and reliable form of waterproofing that would deliver a completely dry internal space and cause the minimal amount of disruption to the Listed structure.The basement, part of a four-storey Listed building, was built into a hillside, meaning that three of the walls were either fully or partially below-ground and suffering from water penetration. Arti Construction worked with the design team at an early stage to design a waterproofing solution.With existing Listed basements such as this one, Arti Construction were quick to recommend a Type C cavity drain waterproofing solution in the form of the Newton CDM System. Type C waterproofing is the safest and most reliable form of waterproofing that will deliver a completely dry internal space, whilst also causing the minimum amount of disruption to the Listed structure.Before Arti could proceed with the installation, they first had to re-level the existing concrete slab in order to provide a flat and stable floor.With the structure fully prepared, Arti could then proceed with installing a full cavity drain waterproofing system. This consisted of installing Newton 508 with minimal MultiPlug fixings to the walls and floors to capture the ingressing water. The water is then directed via Newton Basedrain channels to a Titan-Pro sump chamber, for removal by dual NP400 clean water pumps.The complex basement space included existing columns, windows and an internal staircase which all had to be factored into the waterproofing design.Regardless of this, Arti Construction completed the 280m2 installation within budget in just one week, delivering a reliable Type C structural waterproofing system that is also compliant with British Standard 8102:2009.

The heat efficiency of a Grade II listed Georgian townhouse in the historic city of Bath is set to be dramatically improved as a result of the introduction of Spacetherm® Multi insulation.The challenge of dealing with heating inefficiencies, major heat loss and high heating costs are a common problem with many listed buildings and solid wall dwellings.Property owner Mike Mower explains, “I obtained planning permission to insulate the top floor of my Grade II listed Georgian townhouse as it is single skin 6” Bath stone (Oolite) and very heat inefficient, all walls have the original lime render and skim and so they need to breathe. The property in Bath was built in 1818 and has been in my family for 101 years since 1919! I am the 3rd generation to live in it and it was last renovated in 1935 so it needs serious upgrading!“The architect originally specified another insulation but this would have required encroaching 100mm into the room and would necessitate moving door frames and rebuilding window reveals. After extensive research, I identified the Spacetherm Multi aerogel product from the A. Proctor Group.“The architect was so impressed by the thermal efficiency of the Spacetherm Multi. With a total thickness of 20mm when rendered, this will not encroach onto the floor space, and the door frames and windows will not need to be altered. Subsequently we included Spacetherm Multi on the planning application as an alternative to the traditional insulation originally specified, which was approved by the Conservation officer and building control.”In addition to the Spacetherm SLENTEX® A2 blanket, foil encased Spacetherm A2 (CBS) Cold Bridge Strip was also included at window and door junctions to address areas susceptible to cold bridging.Spacetherm Multi is a high-performance laminate specifically designed to be laid directly onto existing floors & walls. Spacetherm Multi consists of Spacetherm Aerogel insulation blanket bonded to a 6mm Magnesium Oxide Board.At just 16mm thick, the use of Spacetherm Multi has virtually no negative impact on floor space, making it ideal for refurbishment projects where space is at a premium.Typically, a solid wall will have a U value of around 2.1 W/m2K. Following the application of Spacetherm Multi, this can be reduced to around 0.8 W/m2K, dependent on the wall structure.Finally, Mike Mower commented “I think Spacetherm Multi is ideal for listed building insulation as it has a minimal effect on the infrastructure of the original building. It has the potential to be used extensively in old buildings such as we have in Bath where heat loss is at a maximum, the original walls need to be able to breathe when insulated and insulation has hitherto been impossible due to the visual impact encroaching on the listed building. I am also seeking planning permission to use the product to insulate the basement floor and walls.”

Ryno Signature Decking in ‘Silver Birch’ takes pride of place in this new Brentwood development. The apartment block has a bold red brick exterior, with simple anthracite windows and detailing.The glass balustrades of the balconies allow the maximum level of light to enter the apartments, while making the paved courtyard feel even larger and more spacious.Products UsedTerraSmart® Composite in Silver Birch was used across the private balconies. Silver Birch, from the Signature Range of premium ‘capped’ decking, has an elegant textured wood-grain finish.The terrace spaces had additional height build-up requirements, so fixed-head adjustable pedestals were used to raise the decking to the door thresholds.

Constructed within the Mossley Hill Conservation Area, the parkland surrounding the University of Liverpool's Greenbank student residences was gifted to the university by the Rathbone family in 1939, and still offers a unique environment today. Crucially the designs for new buildings, including use of Technal's aluminium building systems respond sympathetically to the verdant setting. The Greenbank Residences replace outdated buildings and have been arranged around three landscaped courtyards, rising from five to eight storeys in height, creating over 1,370 new en-suite bedrooms. This project utilised 2,000 m2 of aluminium curtain walling, windows and doors - all of which offer high thermal performance and are finished in matt Anthracite Grey polyester powder coat.

The Four Seasons Kuwait on the Burj Alshaya waterfrontboasts over 300 rooms and suites - the embodimentof opulence inside and out. This prestigious hotel,which blends motifs from traditional Middle Easternarchitecture into an airy contemporary space, wasdesigned to be the most luxurious in Kuwait, sonaturally, it required a specialist ironmongery solution.Having worked on many of the Four Seasons projectsworldwide, Allgood was initially brought in by leadarchitect, Gensler to support the development of theironmongery schedule. When Yabu Pushelberg wasappointed as interior designer, Allgood was selectedas their natural partner following many previouscollaborations on similarly large and complex projects.The showpiece of the £1 million ironmongery project isthe bespoke brass pull handle on each of the 3.6 metrehighinternal doors. Finished in a warm bronze designedto patinate over time, with a hammered texture, thesepull handles required months of consultation andprototyping, as well as a customised manufacturingprocess in Allgood’s Birmingham factory.On March 22nd, Four Seasons Kuwait won secondplace in the International category of the RIBA-GAISpecification Awards 2019. The judges commented:“This entry is of an extremely high standard. Thehardware compliments the building fabric perfectly- in the simplicity of design and universal finish. Thehotel design is well mirrored by the hardware in itsappearance and theme.”

This is the new FalcoScandic cycle hub Falco designed, manufactured, supplied and installed at West Midlands Railway’s Wolverhampton Interchange Station, forming part of a city award winning £150million Interchange development, delivering improvements to bus, tram, train and cycle connectivity.The new state-of-the-art cycle hub design, featuring no internal support posts to maximise the yield of cycle parking spaces, provides secure, dedicated, spaces for up to 100 bikes using the FalcoLevel-Premium+ two-tier cycle parking system.Installed this winter, the new 14m x 6m cycle hub includes the following features and benefits:Supportless internal structureAutomatic sliding doorInternal cycle parking for 92 bikes using the FalcoLevel-Premium+ two-tier systemInternal cycle parking for up to five non standard / cargo bikesExternal glass roof cycle canopyEight external FalcoCam cycle stands to accommodate 16 bikesFob Reader access control systemEnergy efficient LED lightingBespoke branding vinyl graphicsFalcoFix cycle repair stationCCTV securityPowder coated steelworkSpeaking of the new cycle hub addition, City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for City Economy, councillor Stephen Simkins, said: “The Interchange is a jewel in the crown of our city and part of the multi billion pound regeneration that is taking place.“The new cycle hub will give people more options and encourages this healthy, clean and green form of transport.“As a city we are committed to improving our infrastructure for more sustainable transport and this scheme complements our ongoing work to improve and grow our cycling network and support our climate change agenda.“The completed Interchange will connect train, tram, bus and cycles in one place and will provide a gateway to our city that we can all enjoy using - and be proud of.”The images attached show the new cycle hub installation, conveniently located next to the station entrance, near the pedestrian footbridge to the city centre.

This elegant extension, designed by award-winning practice Chris Dyson Architects, not only significantly increases the footprint of the client’s North London home, but also delivers a uniquely versatile living space for use all year round. The pure scale and the innovative use of glazing for the extension as well as for the new top floor dormer cannot fail to impress, and yet the architectural language reflects the calm, understated style for which Chris Dyson Architects have become acclaimed. Bespoke rooflights, supplied by Glazing Vision, not only flood the ground floor with natural light, but they also help moderate the temperatures throughout the house.The client was seeking to refresh the property by adding an extension to the rear, which would enable the existing ground floor spaces to be connected through a single flowing space, creating a welcoming and flexible environment for hosting their growing family and for entertaining guests.The top floor bedrooms were accessed via a narrow hallway where a small dormer window provided minimal daylight and restricted views of the garden. Creating a living space on this floor where the family could relax and enjoy some downtime was also part of the client’s brief to Chris Dyson Architects.Glazed openings for harmonious integrationThe design for the extension was a solid and robust structure that would integrate harmoniously with the main body of the house and would serve as more than just a “sunroom”. The traditional proportions of the classic orangery have been achieved by Chris Dyson Architects through the use of precast stone columns and five glazed openings, which connect the new internal space with a raised external terrace leading to the rear garden.New internal glazed doors enable the formal dining room and the breakfast room/kitchen to be opened or closed to the main orangery space, providing flexible spatial and acoustic barriers without compromising the natural light entering the entire area.For entertaining and parties the space is ideal, allowing people to freely move between rooms and out onto the garden terrace.Maximising daylight, moderating room temperaturesThe insulated walls and the energy efficient double-glazing of the orangery would serve to keep the space warm in the winter months. In the summer opening the doors would help keep the space comfortable. To further regulate the internal temperature a full width rooflight from Glazing Vision was installed, equipped with sliding elements. Chris Dyson Architects chose Glazing Vision due to the high quality of their products and their ability to create beautiful bespoke solutions.The architects worked closely with Glazing Vision’s specialist CAD designers and technicians to design custom rooflights to meet the exacting requirements of the orangery roof as well as the new glazed dormer.Given the exceptional size of the extension roof, 3320mm x 10900mm, Glazing Vision’s factory precision-engineered a special Dual Sliding Over Fixed Rooflight, comprising 8 sections. The 2 end sections were manufactured to slide over the 6 fixed central sections, traversing in a side-to-side, rather than an up-and-down slope operation.Normally supplied in a RAL7015 slate grey to the exterior and RAL 9010 pure white to the interior, the entire framework of this super-sized Dual Sliding Over Fixed Rooflight was supplied in a bronze finish, which was a key part of the architectural design.With such a complex rooflight, with fixed and sliding sections, a quiet and efficient operation was fundamental to the specification. Electronically controlled at the touch of a button, each of the 2 sliding sections of glazing can be retracted easily, revealing generous openings, and sky-only views. An added safety feature is the manual override should the electronic control system stall.On the top floor the existing narrow hall has been opened up and extended to create a new living space. The bespoke glazed dormer by Glazing Vision provides expansive views across the garden, and an abundance of natural light. A large Bi-parting 1-wall Box Rooflight, measuring 4850mm in the width, was set into the sloping roof. At a total height of 1700mm the rooflight also enhances the feeling of loft in this relaxation area.Supplied in 6 sections, the Glazing Vision Box Rooflight was configured such that the 2 central sections were bi-parting, sliding over 2 adjacent fixed sections. Two additional fixed sections and 2 fixed end panels completed this fully glazed, customised dormer. In order to provide privacy from the neighbouring properties, and conform with Planning Regulations, these end panels were manufactured in satin etched glass.Once the 2 sliding sections are retracted, there is a handsome opening, giving an almost balcony-like effect, and encouraging the user to appreciate the garden vista during the day and to delight in the starry landscape at night. The Glazing Vision Bi-parting 1-wall Box rooflight helps to regulate the temperatures and the air quality throughout this upper floor, allowing copious amounts of fresh air to circulate when it is open. Rain sensors, offered by Glazing Vision as optional extras, were also installed to provide additional security should the weather suddenly turn inclement.Chris Dyson Architects are to be complimented on the sensitive integration of a contemporary orangery in this family home as well as on the bold extension of the top floor. Form and function are in perfect harmony and the Glazing Vision rooflights will ensure that there is an ever-changing canopy to the spaces below!This project was shortlisted for the AJ Specification Awards, in the ‘Doors and Windows’ category.

Black POSIglaze Side-fix channel installed as Juliet balcony. What is a Juliet Balcony? A glass Juliet balcony (also known as a French balcony) is a type of glass balustrade that is fitted to a first floor window, directly outside a set of inward-opening French doors, as a safety feature. A Juliet balcony creates a feeling of space within the room, as well as allowing more light and fresh air into the room than could be achieved with a regular window. All within a secure and stylish translucent framework. This beautiful installation by Terry Lisgo and his G&T Design & Build Team, features two Juliet balconies on one property in Cheshire March 2022. The home owner didn’t want any handrails blocking their view, so 17.5mm toughened laminated glass has been used as this eliminates the need for the extra safety measure. Toughened laminated glass has a layer between the glass sheets which adds strength, removing the need for a handrail.To pass building regulations, the glass must be 1100mm high across these Juliet balconies. If you’ve ever been involved in a building project, you’ll know that elements must be signed off before the next building phase can begin. The black Juliet Balconies look stunning with the matching windows and French doors and have fulfilled the customer brief perfectly. POSIglaze side-fix balustrade channel is able to hold glass thickness between 12mm and 21.5mm. and is suitable for many projects and balcony styles. The cladding is the black element used to make the channel look black, simply clipped on to the channel it transforms the look from silver to black balustrade. You might be wondering why people like Juliet balconies so much when you can’t actually stand on them! Well they can actually add value to your home, they increase natural light into your room and also improve the air flow. If you love the feeling of bringing the outdoors in, then these are ideal for you as they increase your view in a safe and stylish way.  Frameless glass balustrades used for Juliet Balconies are low maintenance and cheaper than the conventional balcony design. If you are interested in having a Juliet balcony please contact our helpful technical team and they will provide guidance on how to get started, chat about your balustrade ideas and we can also let you know about installers local to you.