"kitchens"

The ChallengeA former industrial area along the south bank of the Union Canal in Merchiston, Edinburgh required transformation with the expected outcome of becoming one of the places to live in the city centre. A housing development was to provide a stylish addition to the already thriving growing community.The development consists of 11 stylish, one, two and three-bedroom apartments. The apartments feature high quality engineered flooring, bespoke kitchens, designer bathrooms and fitted wardrobes, and each has a terrace or balcony enjoying open views over the canal.It was important that the building materials used were sympathetic to the local sandstone buildings.The SolutionThe original intention had been to use extruded bricks for the project, however, it was decided instead to use Forterra’s buff, stock thrown, Belgravia Gault Blend from its Ecostock range. A total of 55,000 bricks were used in the construction of Horne Terrace.The BenefitsBelgravia Gault Blend complemented beautifully the sandstone aesthetic of the buildings in the locality, while at the same time delivering great technical specification of low water absorption and low embodied carbon.

Working on the Ground Floor Lobby, First Floor Gym, Level 10 and Level 17, Planet’s southern contracting team provided an extensive range of fire-rated and non-fire rated partition and door solutions to Building D of the Nine Elms development in Battersea.In the Ground Floor Lobby, non-fire rated single-glazed automatic bi-parting sliding doors were installed along with with 3150mm high LOFT20 XL partitions with reeded film. IsoPro doors (40 dB Rw) provided access to co-working spaces and meeting rooms.FireTec Ei30 fire rated doors and LOFT transom bars provided exit route protection on Level 1 in communal areas and on Level 10 along with a FireTec Ei60 window.On Level 17, two FireTec Ei30 double door sets with overhead panels provided access to the indoor lounge area and bar area, while a single LOFT20 screen offered additional natural light passage between the lounge and adjoining demonstration kitchen.

Chelwood House by Napier Clarke is a clean, modern building in Chesham Bois, Amersham. It was built to replace an existing suburban house and is located within an area of special character meaning it was vital to seamlessly blend into the local area.Napier Clarke elected to use local brick and charred timber to ensure the house’s materials were able to sit visually well within the immediate area. Chelwood’s impressive size (5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, living space, snug, kitchen/ dining, play area, garage, utility room and an attic yoga room) and modern visual leanings were expected to be a challenge for local planning authorities. However, the building’s sympathetic materials and centrepiece vaulted roofs were inspired by the local area and the proposals were accepted.Chelwood introduces a cantilevered brick upper floor to its design which contrasts the simple design of the ground floor. Internally, the same materials used in its external spaces are repeated, creating a series of truly dynamic focal points.Chelwood uses legacy Michelmersh products in its production and recently won the Individual Housing Award in the 2022 BDA Brick Awards.

Born in the historic headquarters of a nineteenth-century factory, Lanolin Fabrik is an ensemble of offices, lofts with kitchen spaces, terraces, loggias and green oases that make it a modern, functional and human-sized workplace.Our customer has implemented a new system consisting of domestic water supply and irrigation pumps for this historic complex: Esybox Max was chosen as the mains water booster set, whilst for the irrigation of the green areas the DAB Esytwin compact variable speed booster was identified as the solution.3 Esybox Max is a market leading technologically innovative water booster set, demonstrated to be highly efficient. The use of permanent magnet motors has contributed to a 20% efficiency improvement over industry standard pumps. The solution was designed and perfectly sized to obtain constant pressure for all users but with the minimum possible energy use.All the pumps in the water booster system were connected to a single control panel, which regulates the power supply to the multipump units.The complex consists of 2 buildings, one with 5 and one with 7 floors, and the entire water boosting system that powers it is monitored and managed remotely using the DAB D.Connect cloud based service.

Renowned for its colourful, bold designs, JA!COCO! has transformed Beer52’s Edinburgh office into a glorious dynamic, flexible and bold space, highlighting the beauty of the Georgian townhouse it is situated in, whilst embodying the brand’s strong identity.As the world’s biggest beer subscription service, Beer52 wanted an office space that was colourful and playful – the crazier JA!COCO! went, the better! Taking inspiration from Roald Dahl and David Lynch, the office space now boasts grand, arched-entrance swing doors, beer taps on receptions and floor-to-ceiling custom window blinds – to name just a few. On the first floor, an eclectic zig zag flooring design has also been created, using Forbo’s Flotex Colour range in the Melon (a burned orange shade) and Crystal (a heather-like hue) colourways. In fact, the colourways influenced the colour scheme for the office space, with similar shades adorning the walls, ceilings and swing doors.JA!COCO! also chose to install Forbo’s Allura Click LVT planks in the Blond Timber colourway throughout the hallway and kitchen spaces, to complement the more ‘stripped back’ décor, which has an almost bar-like atmosphere.

The Old Saltings has been created on the middle floor of a nineteenth century saltings, situated right on the beach at Porthmeor in St Ives, Cornwall. What was once a place where pilchards would have been packed and salted, has now been dramatically transformed into a stunning contemporary apartment sleeping up to 8 guests.The spacious kitchen has been designed to make the most of the sea views as well as top of the range appliances and fittings. The brushed-satin stainless steel sinktop from GEC Anderson further enhances the light and contemporary living space. Practical, twin sink bowls are seamlessly integrated within the continuous stainless steel worktop-run that also includes an integrated hob. The back upstand provides water safe and hygienic detailing that is typically demanded by discerning and knowledgeable specifiers.Architect Cany Ash of Ash Sakula said, “The GEC Anderson stainless steel worktop provided edge detailing and a finish which was better than the usual alternatives normally associated with catering applications. We especially like the jointless, continuous nature of the surface area. The other benefit of stainless steel is that it is hard wearing, which is very important in a holiday apartment where it will get significant use.

In 2015, Quinn London Ltd started the refurbishment of The Market Building, in Brentford which involved the conversion of Offices to residential dwellings as a ‘Material Change of Use’ project. Soundis provided acoustic solution options for this project, in order to ensure a cost effective Value Engineering Exercise, on behalf of the Main Contractor.As the 1st floor required a deep void system due to new soil pipes and waste pipes having to be installed along the corridor within the building for kitchens and bathrooms, it was agreed to utilise Soundis Cradle & Batten System. This provided a service void for the pipes of 300mm whilst the other areas of the floor were treated with the system at 80mm FFH. The Soundis cradle & batten acoustic floor was then overlaid with a Soundis a high quality, interlocking dry screed system gypsum fibreboard.The Soundis cradle & batten floor system has been installed on the existing concrete and existing timber structural floors to provide a level floor over the un-even sub-deck. The service void provided by Soundis cradle & batten system can be used for other flooring applications, such as underfloor heating.Our Cradle and Risers are manufactured from 100% recycled materials assisting to the sustainability targets of projects.

Decorative and hardwearing school flooringArthur Mellows Village College in Peterborough has recently benefited from a new science, media and IT facility, together with extensive refurbishment of existing buildings and school flooring.The school flooring refurbishment required a decorative, yet durable, system for a variety of areas across the busy site. Designed using different colour combinations and stainless steels trims, the Degafloor Flake System was installed to a total area of 5000 sq m.Within the existing buildings, Degafloor systems were installed over existing finishes, enabling projects to be completed quickly and at lower cost.For areas where enhanced slip-resistance was required, the Degafloor Full Broadcast system was chosen as it to offers enhanced protection in high risk areas such as school kitchens and toilets. The project was completed by The National Flooring Company Ltd.The outstanding two hour cure time of Degafloor systems ensured that each installation was completed on time and with minimal disruption. Pupils and staff alike were thrilled with the flooring."Degafloor systems provide very durable and attractive floor finishes that enhances the appearance of the College environment."- Gary Wentworth, Site Manager, Arthur Mellows Village College

Senior’s Ali FOLD sliding folding doors have been installed at a private home in Leeds, West Yorkshire, to enhance the renovation of the kitchen and living space.The homeowners chose to install Ali FOLD doors because of their attractive sleek appearance with slim sightlines which let in maximum daylight.With a vast choice of colours available via Senior’s in-house powder coating facility, the owners were also able to choose a colour which complemented their internal décor, adding to the overall colour scheme.The new Ali FOLD doors have transformed the living space, bathing the interior with light and providing uninterrupted views of the garden that can be enjoyed both day and night.The homeowners have been particularly impressed with how easy the doors are to open and by the flexibility of being able to open one or multiple door leaves depending on the desired level of access.Ali FOLD’s exceptional thermal performance has also delighted the couple, helping to retain heat and giving the renovated room a homely cosy feel. With a life expectancy in excess of 40 years, Senior’s Ali FOLD aluminium doors have been designed to be easy to fabricate, install and maintain and are available as a folding sliding bi-fold style as well as both single and double doors.

The dynamics of the home and workplace have changed in the wake of the pandemic. Over the past couple of years, interior design trends have evolved to accommodate the so-called ‘new normal’. The rise of the home office and necessity of social distancing have highlighted the need for an environment that is both comfortable and functional.These are trends that will continue into 2022, with a few new flavours coming into play. In the continued strive towards equilibrium between form and function, writable whiteboard paint is a fantastic tool. No matter what your interior design choices are, having writable surfaces can transform any room while still keeping the overall approach and aesthetic. You can use white functional whiteboard paint in working areas or your kitchen to make lists and keep yourself organised, or clear whiteboard paint on your colourful walls for that extra touch. Options are infinite but here's one more - if you want to pin up pictures, notes and decorations, magnetic whiteboard paint is there to do the job. You can read more about our magnetic paint and magnetic whiteboard paint, and check out our other articles on home decoration and creativity, including how to turn your home into a writable wonderland, how to have a creative home office space, and what colour trends to use in 2022.

'The Portal' is a new £16 million public services hub in Ellesmere Port, delivered by Vinci Construction UK for Cheshire West and Chester Council. The new facility will be home to more than 500 council and public sector staff, a Job Centre Plus and a Citizen’s Advice Bureau.The building has been constructed with many environmentally friendly elements including solar panels, air source heat pump and electric vehicle charging points. The Portal’s envelope is wrapped at the top and bottom with an attractive, copper coloured metal cladding and a newly formed public realm area will surround the exterior, with bench seating and green landscaped sections.Internally, 'The Portal' consists of large open plan working areas with smaller subsection meeting rooms, break out and kitchen spaces which are present on each level and a main central staircase for circulation.Metal Technology Ltd supplied its 10-35Hi+ commercial entrance doors and System 17 capped curtain walling for the large, glazed sections of the build to approved fabricator and installer RED Systems Limited.Due to open its doors in Spring, it’s fantastic to have been involved in this state-of-the-art, commercial project, which is a catalyst for the wider Ellesmere Port Town Centre regeneration master plan.

Hush Acoustics was tasked with providing an acoustic separating floor solution in an extensive material change of use project in Southall. Phoenix House was being converted by Vascroft Construction from an office building to residential flats, in a project which involved building into the basement, adding two floors and expanding at the rear.The development of 149 flats, each of which comprises 2 bedrooms, 1 ensuite, 1 bathroom, 1 kitchen/living area, required an effective design for the separating floors to ensure they would be effectively soundproofed throughout across multiple different floor finishes.After assessing a number of floor construction materials, Hush Panel 28 floating floor panels were selected to meet the acoustic performance targets. Using this panel meant that throughout the bedrooms and living areas a simple underlay could be laid before the finished carpets or engineered timber floor were installed. Hush Panel 28 was also suitable for the floors in the wet rooms and entrance hallways by applying Detromat on top of the panel to form an anti cracking surface.A team of more than 100 operatives worked on site, with every 1000 sq. m of floor completed per week, which Hush Acoustics supported to ensure Vascroft could meet the project’s strict delivery schedule.

Dynamic interior spaces created for flagship care homeIssue Quantum Care were launching their flagship care home, Mantles Court, and wanted an interior design that created a warm, welcoming and comfortable space. Quantum Care asked WHAT IF? Designs to create the interior spaces with a non-clinical feel, making the state of the art, 78-bed care facility feel like a home-from-home for residents. Approach WHAT IF? Designs looked at the flow of resident living spaces and the needs for each area. Communal spaces including lounges, dining and kitchen areas required floors that were easy to clean, looked fantastic and provided safety from slips. For the ensuite bathrooms, a softer, neutral coloured floor with slip resistance for both staff and residents was needed, while bedrooms called for a more homely, domestic feel, with comfort under foot as a priority. Solution Altro Wood was chosen for the dining room, bedrooms and the hair salon for its natural, homely, good looks. Altro Aquarius and Altro Pisces, with their wide colour palette and lifetime sustained slip resistance, were selected for the ensuite bathrooms, providing safety for shoe and barefoot users. And in the communal areas, Altro Ensemble was chosen for its flexibility and design choices as well as its noise reduction and comfort underfoot.

The recently built front extension creates a new threshold for the church, encompassing a large multipart Flushglaze fixed rooflight from Glazing Vision. The rooflight works to fill the entrance lobby with natural daylight and helps to create a lofty, open space with character.Utilising frameless rooflights to accentuate this highly contemporary home, CDC Studio have adopted the perfect balance of imagination and persistence. Designed as a ‘forever home’ for their retired clients, this house is accessible, highly contemporary, low energy, sustainable and secure.Having approached CDC Studio, to create a home which was not too big for two, but big enough to accommodate village parties and wider family coming to stay.CDC Studio replicated the thatched barn and knitted into the local community, encapsulation the character of the village through local crafts and materials of flint, red brick, timber shutters and estate fencing complimenting this with the use of zinc to echo the agricultural aesthetic of the original land use.Adopting a thoroughly modern approach, the kitchen, dining and living spaces are open plan to allow for social gatherings and to provide a smooth flow throughout the home. With three Glazing Vision secure by design flat rooflights along the roofline, natural daylight is allowed to fill the property and create an open space for the homeowners to enjoy.The kitchen sits under a column-free, steel rod hung mezzanine with acoustic damping which was rigorously engineered to avoid the reverberating noise. This creates a sense of enclosure to the kitchen whilst allowing CDC to achieve the fully flexible family / party space requested beyond.Two Glazing Vision electric Visionvents have been included to deliver a continual air flow running through the property and providing a constant temperature and source of natural daylight into the entertainment area of the home.To compliment the contemporary style of this house, a Glazing Vision Sliding over Roof rooflight has been installed, whereby the entire section of glazing retracts out onto the roof space, leaving open, unimpeded views of the sky above. When closed, the amount of glass is maximised to maintain an almost frameless appearance.“CDC Studio have been specifying Glazing Vision for a number of years and our clients have always been very pleased with the results. A combination of standard products and the option to deliver a bespoke solution means that Glazing Vision cater for all types of projects and affordability whilst products are well made and come with the addition of guarantees.” Delphine Dryer, Associate Director CDC Studio.The character of the thatched barn is emphasized by embracing its full height to the ridge, offering modest but usable guest rooms wrapped in painted timber boarding. These were identified for immediate family use, the height helping to overcome their narrow nature on plan, integrated wardrobes, back panels and pegs for hanging make them hard working spaces. A separate master suite spreads into the new volumes providing dressing, bathroom and a private patio area which offers the clients a place for quiet retreat when guests are staying.The house boasts its own private ‘Gin and Tonic’ balcony. The mezzanine space creates a private second sitting area with a concealed timber stair nestled between concrete sheer walls to provide access. It is quiet yet connected to the main space, and commands views to the west with a fully opening sliding over roof rooflight to let the outdoors in. A separate guest suite and shower room afford privacy to occupants and visitors alike.The extended roofline and orientation provide solar shading to the solar controlled west facing glazing with the careful positioning of rooflights to prevent overheating in the height of summer, plus water runoff is directed to a salvaged historical water trough which the clients will use to water the garden. The linear design is extended into the immediate landscape with water rills extending out like fingers into the wider area which over time the clients will begin to accentuate with their planting.This project showed the right combination of imagination and persistence, creating a home which not only fits in with the local village heritage but also manages to stand out and create a ‘wow factor’ for those which bask in its glory.“We have recently been impressed with their ability to comply with the secure by design requirements which not all companies seem aware of. We have used the fixed and venting rooflights on our Stacked house and Y house and a massive bespoke sliding rooflight on our Parkhouse which the clients adore.” Delphine Dryer, Associate Director CDC Studio.

The Shield is a £18.4m development located on the east side of Newcastle city centre - a regeneration area previously occupied by light industrial buildings, a brick-build office and a warehouse. Comprising of three blocks of student accomodation extending seven storeys at Stoddard Street to the east, this scheme steps down to four storeys at Clarence Street to the west.This building features a refined palette of materials including brick, aluminium and bronze coloured cladding in a range of natural colours to animate the facade. Visible aluminium frame windows punctuate the mass of three blocks and provide a significant aesthetic impact. Installed in a vertical configuration to contrast with the cladding's horizontal lines, side-hung, open-out windows were mostly used with some top-hung, open-out vents - all fitted with exclusive TECHNAL hardware including locking handles and releasable restrictors. Visible Grid Curtain walling is also utilised in this project for its durability and design flexibility. Featured to enhance daylighting in communal spaces, it was installed at ground level alongside aluminium doors, and at height alongside the windows - adding interest by visually zig-zagging on alternate floors.Within walking distance of Northumbria University's City Campus East, and the main Newcastle University Campus, The Shield offers a mix of self-contained studio flats and en-suite bedrooms with shared kitchens and houses up to 400 students.

Six of our large raised planters can be found in the walled garden of the historic Hopton Hall on the outskirts of the Peak District. The hall has a rich 600-year heritage and has hosted the likes of Oliver Cromwell and Mary Queen of Scots. Today the hall is a privately owned home with holiday cottage accommodation. Its beautiful gardens are open to the public, who travel from all over the world to see its famous snowdrop displays in spring and its fragrant rose garden in summer.The kitchen garden sits within the walled rose garden and is used to grow vegetables, herbs and varieties of pollinator-friendly flowers.There are two rows of three raised planters. This area of the garden is sloped, therefore the planters needed to be built into it to maximise the space large beds have been built into the slope.Hopton’s head gardener opted for high planters for ease of access and each design is 0.85m high.WoodBlocX modular planters are a popular choice for parks and gardens. The combination of versatile design and superior finish means the structures work well in historical and heritage settings and equally well within modern schemes by simply switching from traditional to contemporary capping, which sits flush with the structure.Raised planters can also be designed with integrated seating and in bespoke shapes and sizes, and we offer all clients a Free Design Service which will visualise your design in a series of CAD views.Bei

The challengeA new 53,280ft campus was being built to enable three schools to co-locate. An Additional Support Needs (ASN) unit and a new Early Learning and Childcare Centre (ELCC) would also operate at the site.In total there would be 21 open-plan flexible learning spaces for the potential 747 students, as well as a centrally-located shared administrative areas, gym halls and assembly area, while the ASN has capacity to assist 36 pupils with a varying range of support needs.To ensure the success of this modern and multi-faceted open-plan approach to learning, the specification of ceiling systems with high performing acoustic control and total design flexibility was imperative.The solutionFor maximum acoustic comfort Zentia’s Oplia hA Tegular within a standard 24mm grid was used in offices, classrooms and stores.These tiles perform to Sound Absorption Class A and were also the first mineral ceiling tile in Europe to win Cradle to Cradle™ certification as part of the new generation of sustainable and acoustic ceilings offered by Zentia.In keeping with the modern and sleek design of the campus, Zentia’s integrated ceiling systems featuring Perla OP Tegular 15 planks were also used throughout. Whilst, in the kitchen and changing room spaces, Zentia's Hygiene board mineral tiles on a 24 mm corrosion-resistant grid was specified.

Originally home to Pathé films and situated in the heart of London’s famous Soho district, The Pathé Building at109 Wardour Street is a newly refurbished developmentconsisting of 15 apartments. With exquisite interiors drawingon a classic British palette of textures, the apartments offer2-3 bedrooms with communal area and kitchen. With flatsretailing at the higher end of the market, it was imperativethat Allgood’s specification complemented the luxuryaesthetic of the apartments.Initial discussions revealed that the architect wanted tospecify the same finish throughout the entire building.This presented a challenge for Allgood as there wereseveral different types of doors and door colours:orange, white and grey. Allgood felt stainless steel,while a finish that would suit the décor, would not beappropriate for this type of residential building so abronze finish was agreed upon. The grey apartmentfront doors were supplied with bronze door closers,thumb turns, lever handles, hinges and flushbolts,whilst the bathroom doors were fitted with bronze pullhandles and thumbturns.The building also required signage to direct residentsand guests to various areas of the facility. However,the architect wanted to continue the bronze themeinto this so Allgood manufactured bespoke individualnumerals, letters and various symbols including abicycle in a bronze finish.Like with any central London residential building, spaceis an extremely valuable commodity. In order to maximisespace in the apartments, Allgood supplied bronze pocketdoor locking kits for all the bathrooms.

Major work has been carried out by the Derwent Group on the Liverpool Edge Lane Retail Park. This regeneration work was something quite different to the other schemes in the city, with its vibrant mix of retailers, aspirational food and beverage brands and leisure operators as well as free parking for 1500 cars and great transport links.As part of the major regeneration project a new B&Q store relocated to the new retail park with an enlarged store including new kitchen and bathroom showrooms, aiming to give its customers an upgraded shopping experience. Marshalls were hugely excited to provide the landscaped area to the front of the store and to help enhance this overall shopping experience.The approach was taken to ensure that the Liverpool Shopping Park had a transformative effect on this part of the city and bring a much needed and exciting leisure and retail experience to the market.The development of the 49,000 square foot B&Q store at Edge Lane is one of the first B&Qs in the country to feature a new layout and refreshed departments, therefore the landscaped paved areas at the front of the store needed to match up to the exception internal standards and make a real visual and striking impression.Marshalls was enlisted to supply Modal paving, part of the internationally recognised La Linia range & Myriad paving, in a mix of grey tones and multi-sized paving units to achieve this visual landscape brief that the client was looking for.

Waterproofing design is a key and critical component for successful construction of below ground structures. Whether it’s a completely new build or making smaller changes to an existing property, waterproofing design should never be overlooked.Waterproofing might account for just a small fraction of a building’s total cost, but waterproofing defects can result in catastrophic consequences. When waterproofing fails, the implications are significant.Delta’s MD, Kevin Dodds was approached to offer advice and guidance on a failed waterproofing system.The existing structure had an impressive 5-level basement which houses: kitchens, food storage and food preparation areas, spa, plant rooms and accommodation. Near to a large river, the site sited well within the water table. The original waterproofing system was based on the secant piled walls and a block wall internally to provide a basic drained protection system with drainage holes at various points to drain to various levels.Over time, the third floor had become completely saturated with all levels of the basement experiencing water ingress in varying levels from damp patches to significant “jets” of water and flows of water through the secant piles.With remediation waterproofing design strategies, it may take some time to specify a suitable system. It is important that investigations are thoroughly carried out by individuals with the capability of diagnosing the defect, assessing the extent of that defect, and recommending a suitable corrective measure.

Park Regis Birmingham, part of the Stay Well hospitality Group, is a brand new upscale four-star luxury hotel with 253 well-appointed guest rooms in the heart of Birmingham's city centre on Broad Street. The hotel offers a modern and contemporary ambience with a boutique feel. Tibbatts Abel Interior Design specified Armourcoat polished plaster finishes for the front desk recessed logo wall and throughout the lobby and public areas of the hotel.Armourcoat finishes also feature within the Rofuto restaurant and bar located on the 16th floor of the hotel tower. This modern Japanese Izakaya-style concept features an incredible 200m2 Armourcoat polished plaster ceiling and finished columns throughout the venue. Rofuto is divided into two main areas; the dining lounge with a 360⁰ panoramic view of Birmingham, and the seven-metre long central dining bar featuring open kitchens and theatre Yakitori grill counter. An array of global projects for an impressive list of international blue chip clients in the residential, hospitality and boutique retail sectors have established Armourcoat as a leading supplier of high quality surface finishes. Armourcoat products are made from natural minerals including recycled Italian marble, contain low or zero VOCs, and have the added confidence of a full 10 year guarantee. Photography: ©Richard Kiely and Rofuto restaurant and bar

Project detailsKenwood, a kitchen appliance manufacturer in Hampshire was suffering with dusty floors and wanted to improve the visual appearance of the warehouse area. Kenwood contacted Watco because they had come to trust our products, having used them over many years. We suggested not only the most suitable repair products and floor coatings but a trusted and experienced flooring specialist to apply the products, Aedean Flooring Ltd in Farnborough, Hampshire.Our solution The floor was shot blasted and lightly ground before being repaired with Watco Concrex® Carbon Fibre, an incredibly strong epoxy resin repair mortar and Watco Flowpatch®, a pourable patch repair material for heavily trafficked floors. Aedean suggested the use of colour inside the aisles, which Kenwood thought was a good idea as it would making identifying each aisle easier. Epoxy Gloss Coat in mid grey was used in the main walkways in the warehouse so that the area could be back in use quickly after coating. The colours chosen for the aisles were: Safety Yellow, Signal Red, Royal Blue and Black. Epoxy Gloss Coat is an extremely tough and decorative industrial floor coating which is ideal in situations where durability is important. "We are delighted with the outcome which completely revitalised the appearance of the warehouse, protecting the floor for many years to come."

Made-to-measure brushed satin stainless steel sinks and worktops, from GEC Anderson, have been installed in the breathing apparatus rooms, kit cleaning rooms and kitchens of the new Winchester Fire Station.The station relocated from its home of 74 years at North Walls to its new state-of-art facility inEaston Lane, Winnall,Winchester. The new five-bay fire station is operationally and strategically located on the outskirts of the city on a major access route, close to the M3. The new facility can accommodate 70-plus personnel and provides a continuously crewed facility as opposed to the previous just day-crewed arrangement, thus providing faster emergency cover over a greater area.Freestanding worktops, totalling more than 10 metres, were installed in the breathing apparatus (BA) room and kit cleaning area of the fire station. Industrial sized sinks were included to provide an effective washing facility for the fire crews specialist equipment. Sarah Collins, architect for Hampshire County Councils Property Services Department said, The specialised sinks were chosen for their ability to cope with an environment of high usage. We wanted a material that was robust enough to take the everyday knocks and last for the lifetime of the building. GEC Anderson sinks certainly met this requirement and are performing extremely well.

The five-star Cameron House Hotel is set within 400 acres of beautiful Scottish countryside on the world-famous banks of Loch Lomond. The Hotel is the prestigious home to a collection of 140 bedrooms including 24 suites. The hotel offers a variety of dining experiences, including the Michelin starred restaurant Martin Wishart at Loch Lomond.When the flat roof areas above the main kitchen and the dining area began to leak, it was imperative that a rapid waterproofing solution could be found that could be installed without disturbing operations at the restaurants below.When the flat roof areas above the main kitchen and the dining area began to leak, it was imperative that a rapid waterproofing solution could be found that could be installed without disturbing operations at the restaurants below. The roof area itself was covered with an aged felt membrane that had been treated with a variety of localised repairs which could no longer prevent water ingress. A large amount of M & E plant was present throughout the roof, and any new waterproofing system would be required to seal the numerous stanchions and plinths in a fully weatherproof condition. After researching waterproofing systems online, Cameron House Hotel contacted Polyroof Technical Services for a recommended waterproofing solution that met their stringent criteria. Following discussions, the regional technical manager carried out a detailed roof survey of the roofs. The survey report formed the basis of a bespoke specification that covered a comprehensive set of recommendations to fully solve the roof’s problems.Polyroof Approved Contractor Skyform Roofing successfully tendered the project and the refurbishment works soon began. In order to avoid disruption to the hotel’s operations the existing roof coverings were retained as a substrate for the Protec system, without the need for stripping / replacement works. Due to the complex nature of the roof, works were carried out within a phased approach with the most problematic regions being refurbished first. Loose-laid M & E plant was relocated and the felt coverings cleaned and made good as required. The remaining roof details were then prepared as necessary before being primed ready to accept Polyroof’s cold liquid-applied Protec system.A key advantage of the Protec system for phased refurbishments is its speed of application and rapid curing. Unlike moisture-curing liquid systems, Protec forms a solid, extra-tough membrane that can be walked on 30 – 60 minutes after application. Not only does this reduce labour times and keep costs down, but crucially it allows the full system to be laid in it’s entirety in a matter of hours – rather than days. With its fibreglass reinforcement, the Protec resin is able to rapidly mould around any protrusion, stanchion, plinth or upstand to quickly form a totally seamless watertight seal – without the need for any time consuming cutting or patching work. This meant that the many complex roof details were able to be rapidly made waterproof, further reducing installation times.The contract monitoring undertaken by Polyroof Technical Services allowed the contractor and manufacturer to work effectively together to ensure the roofing solution delivered on all the client’s needs. The application by Skyform Roofing was completed to a very high standard with every roof detail meticulously sealed in a fully weatherproof condition.

The Trumpington Residents’ Association and Cambridge City Council wanted to update a 60-year-old pavilion at the heart of the village in a £600,000 community project.Cambridge architects 5th Studio designed a striking colourful exterior cladding. They turned to an artist specialising in the treatment and perimeter fencing manufacturer Zaun to create the multi-coloured stripe effect with a specialist bright green protective steel mesh ‘cage’.The SolutionTrumpington Pavilion employs an unusual multi-coloured exterior treatment. An artist specialing in the technique has dribbled green, blue, red and yellow randomly onto a corrugated plastic sandwich sheet, which is then covered with Zaun’s Duo8 mesh in bright green, fixed to coloured timber battens.The pavilion includes a main building with a hall, youth room, kitchen, toilets, office and inter-connected changing rooms for two teams plus an officials’ room.The doors to the changing rooms are in boldly contrasting colours. At the same time, an eight-metre green mesh electric sliding gate protects the building but opens to provide unrestricted access to the patio and the King George V Playing Fields beyond.Zaun installed the Diamond cantilever sliding gate with Duo8 mesh in-fill, KeyFob and internally mounted switchto ensure both the safety of all users of the pavilion when the gates are operated especially children, and the security of the contents when the pavilion is not in use.The original pavilion, built in the early 1950s, was about half the size of the new main building, including a small hall and changing rooms.

Bradstowe House is a fascinating opportunity to not only rescue a historic building but also do it in such a way that will make the property sustainable. When Comer Homes decided they wanted their piece back after experiencing one too many economic downturns under this roof (pun intended), what came up wasn’t anything short of astounding: The long-abandoned concrete frame had become nothing more than dust and decay; its glory days are forgotten — until now!Bradstowe House, designed by Comer Homes’ UK in-house architects is a contemporary landmark for Harrow. The building’s curving glass and steel form give way to ample underground parking as well the rooftop terraces which make this development an iconic example of modern architecture that can be found anywhere from London city all too small towns across England!Bradstowe House offers a diverse range of rental apartments that are designed to suit your needs. With modern kitchens and fully integrated appliances, our high-quality homes offer the perfect space for gatherings with family or friends alike!The old cladding of the building was very outdated and it required a lot of maintenance. The new planning permission allows for an aluminium panel (Valcan VitraDual) curtain walling system, which is much more durable than granite panels while also having better insulation qualities!Valcan supplied and delivered approx. 4100m2 of Valcan VitraDual in Cornish Granite & Riddle Grey.

Expanding care options with fit-for-purpose solutionsAltro Wood, Altro Serenade, Altro Aquarius, Altro Stronghold 30IssueFounded in 1995, The Glen is part of the Willow Valley Communities network that offers ageing residents a mind, body and spirit approach to wellness. The Glen provides a range of support services including shortterm rehabilitation from surgery or illness, as well as specialised memory care for individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other cognitive disorders. The facility needed updating to allow residents to continue to enjoy the comforts of home while promoting their physical and mental wellbeing.ApproachTo continue its mission of designing programmes and places fit to people, Willow Valley enlisted CCS Building Group to manage The Glen expansion project, which began in 2018. CCS collaborated with their Altro representative, knowing Willow Valley’s history of using Altro products during previous renovations with proven success.SolutionThroughout its completion, The Glen project utilised multiple Altro floors. For resident rooms accommodating those receiving skilled care, CCS chose Altro Wood for its warm, domestic aesthetic. In the facility’s communal areas, Altro Serenade provides 19dB sound reduction to reduce excess noise. Altro Stronghold 30 was used in the facility’s kitchens for its superb slip resistance and comfort underfoot for busy staff. For residents’ bathrooms and shower areas, CCS selected Altro Aquarius specialist safety flooring for its high slip resistance value both in shoes or barefoot.

After the historic St Mary’s Hospital in Bristol received planning approval for Commercial refurbishment, we were contacted by M R Allen Limited to help transform the old healthcare facility to student accommodation. The building had been vacant for a number of years before the project to transform the space into 153 premium student rooms got the go ahead.The original hospital building was retained, with the addition of a 4 storey extension, a 3 storey new build, 8 no. townhouses and a new Communal space for students which includes an on-site gym, entertainment room, lounge and kitchen for private dining.Planning dictated that this undesignated heritage asset retained many of its original features, sat within a setting of various listed buildings and in a Conservation area.This led to us recommending timber Box Sash Windows from our Conservation range.All 109 box sash windows were manufactured in our British factory featuring high acoustic performing trickle vents & laminated glass in 24mm double glazed units, ensuring noise travel is kept to a minimum between accommodation.Mark Allen from M R Allen Limited explains;“We chose Mumford & Wood for their long-standing reputation for manufacturing British made, traditional timber windows – exactly what this project required. We also had some stringent acoustic performance requirements and working closely with Mumford & Wood allowed us to create a product that exceeded our performance expectations.”We finished the windows in ‘Signal White,’ featuring polished brass ironmongery.

A former pub located in the heart of Taporley village, Cheshire, has been converted into a luxury health and welbeing centre, featuring a state-of-the-art-gym, treatment rooms and apartments for staff use. Instinct Gym and Wellbeing aims to help improve the health and mental wellbeing of the local community through new initiatives. When it came to selection the best floor coverings, having worked with JA Flooring on previous projects  Enigma Holdings Group, the owners of the building, called upon the flooring contractor once more. As aesthetics and durability were key objectives of the project, JA Flooring advised the use of an array of solutions from Forbo Flooring Systems’ portfolio including its Allura luxury vinyl tiles (LVT), which played a significant role in the renovation works.The natural wood and stone aesthetic, combined with the benefits of strong, comfortable vinyl tiles, meant that Allura was installed in the gym, treatment rooms, spin studios and circulation areas. In the treatment rooms where a more serene surrounding was required, Allura Wood in the Whitewash Elegant Oak colourway was used.In the entrance and reception area, a bespoke Coral Logo entrance flooring mat was produced to reinforce the Instinct Gym and Wellbeing branding – helping to create that all important first impression, whilst offering protection in extreme traffic conditions and maximum functional performance.Finally, Tessera Earthscape carpet tiles in Iceberg were installed in the apartments; and in the changing facilities and kitchens, the Surestep range in various neutral colourways helped to complement the overall sophisticated interior of the health and wellbeing centre.

Caudwell International Children’s Centre (CICC) is the UK’s first independent Centre dedicated to autism diagnosis, therapy and research. National Charity, Caudwell Children, funded the 60,000 sq ft iconic £18 million facility which has been built in Staffordshire near Keele University. The aim of the Centre is to unite the world’s leading experts on autism diagnosis and therapy.The Centre features two internal courtyards and an innovative ‘Butterfly’ design which reflects the charity’s logo. It has been meticulously designed to meet the needs of disabled children and surpasses current UK accessibility standards.  The Centre incorporates state-of-the art assessment suites, family training suites, and training kitchens. There is even a 120-seat conference facility so that experts can share ideas from around the world.The 360-degree loop corridors aim to discourage children from running and, without harsh, right-angled corners, there is less risk of surprise encounters which might cause anxiety. ‘Quiet Pods’ and sensory rooms have also been provided to create a calming space.A combination of Lusso 25 single glazed partitions and Lusso 105 double glazed partitions were installed to meet the varying needs within the building. This helps to ensure visibility for safety, and acoustic requirements to reduce noise levels so as not to over-stimulate children. Lusso 25FR and Lusso 105FR were also used whre fire regulations were required. Overall, the use of glazed partitions within the design ensures the building is modern, contemporary, and bright for all visitors to the Centre.    

ObjectiveDurkan was established in 1970, the company has grown from a small, family contractor to become a leading construction and development company in London and the Home Counties.Durkan were contracted to construct 55 new build apartments on Amelia Street, London. They required a bathroom product that was easy to install and simple to clean but without comproming on decor choice, Nuance ticked all the boxes.Bushboard have been developing kitchen and bathroom surfaces in the UK since 1935, with the idea that everyone deserves a great design whatever their budget.ObservationThe Nuance product was recommended to Durkan Ltd and once they had researched it themselves they were pleased with the variety available.‘Nuance provided a solution in a variety of colours and finishes which were attractive to our clients.’Nuance is all about great design with a flexible and integrated approach for all bathroom layouts.Whether your design calls for wall hung, semi-recessed or the latest sit-on basins, the range offers co-ordinated or matching surfaces in laminate or luxurious solid surface.OutcomeDurkan specified ‘Ice’ surfaces creating a stylish, sleek finish to their bathrooms.A laminate worksurface gives a smart and integrate design look with little maintenance required.‘No challenges occured during the installation process, it was straightforward.’The Nuance worksurfaces give a real flexibility to shape the perfect bathroom along with peace mind of with a three year joint guarantee when installed with Bushboard’s BB Complete adhesive and sealant.For more information about the Bushboard products, request a RIBA CPD, download an NBS specification or order samples visit www.bushboard.co.uk

IssueA dilapidated former care home was being redeveloped into high specification, modern flats and communal spaces. The new flats were to provide bespoke, accessible accommodation for people with autism, learning disabilities and physical disabilities, with an on-site café open to the community. The aim was to create bright, modern, living, and communal spaces, without an institutional feel.ApproachThe flats offer different levels of support for residents. Support provided within people’s own homes is tailored to each person’s needs and supports individuals who are stepping down from secure units and hospitals including those who may have experienced previous placement breakdowns.Interior Designer, Penny Green, having worked with Altro products for many years, liaised with Altro to select a range of floor options to deliver flexible solutions in the different application areas, suitable for resident’s needs.SolutionAltro Ensemble luxury vinyl tiles was specified for The Foundry Café, bringing the benefit of 15dB sound reduction, and added comfort underfoot.In areas with a higher risk of slip, Altro Wood was selected to match the colour scheme, providing a biophilic safe option together with homely aesthetics. Altro Pisces specialist safety flooring, designed for shoe and bare foot use, was specified for all bathrooms and wet rooms.For The Foundry Cafe kitchen, Altro Stronghold 30 was selected to bring safety and comfort underfoot for staff, and Altro Reliance was specified for the back of house and delivery areas bringing a hard-wearing and durable finish.