"light"

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

Our expertise in the student accommodation sector has led to our aluminium fenestration systems being used on this new riverside scheme in Nottingham, which has been designed by architects Maber and built by main contractor Bowmer & Kirkland.Managed by student housing provider Student Roost, the new Deakins Place development is located within close proximity of the University of Nottingham’s Jubilee campus and offers stunning views of the River Leen. These views have been perfectly framed by our patented low U-value PURe® aluminium windows which have been installed by specialist contractor HKL.Specified with flat casement vents, our thermally-efficient PURe® aluminium windows have been installed to each apartment to increase the flow of natural light and to reduce heat loss. The slim aluminium fames have been powder coated to provide additional protection from the elements and to complement the wider façade design which features a stunning mix of natural building materials and colour palettes.

Having purchased a beautiful plot in the Sussex Countryside, our client designed a luxury basement health suite with spectacular lighting effects. Sauna360 UK was invited to provide a specially designed bespoke sauna and steam room to complete this home spa.Bespoke Sauna: Our client came to us with a design idea for a modern, sleek sauna interior that did not use traditional horizontal or vertical wall panelling. Sauna360 UK was able to bring the client's ideas to life using bespoke sauna boards to create a clean, contemporary look that is just as efficient and comfortable whilst also achieving the desired aesthetic. A full glass fascia was used to complete the sauna allowing the client to enjoy a spectacular view of the indoor pool and bespoke space wall art beyond; featuring real still footage captured by the NASA Hubble Telescope!Bespoke Steam Room: Sauna360 also installed an opulent, bespoke steam room alongside the sauna. Finished in a deep blue glass mosaic with generous, sweeping roll front benches, the client is able to relax in comfort and style. 

New air quality sensor provides confidence in operation with its traffic light design It is compact, intuitive and notifies you as soon as the indoor air quality deteriorates: the new air quality sensor CheckAER from SIEGENIA. Reliably and considerably faster than human consciousness, it registers when the indoor air becomes too highly polluted and it is time for it to be exchanged. As well as high CO2 values, this can also be due to total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), which frequently arise as a result of vapours emitted from furniture or cleaning agents. The risk of viruses in the indoor air also increases when there is insufficient ventilation.Easy and intuitive operationEasy and intuitive to programme and operate, CheckAER is the ideal solution for living spaces, schools, kindergartens and office buildings because it can be used free-standing on a table or be mounted on a wall. Programming is done easily and straightforwardly via Plug & Play with the aid of the USB cable included in the delivery, which is also a plus in terms of data security. In addition, it includes an automatic calibration to optimise the sensor accuracy. 

Spearheading an ambitious programme of regeneration, Canada Water Library resembles an inverted ‘ziggurat’ – a terraced pyramid of successively receding storeys – that partly overhangs the Canada Water basin.The £1.4m building sits at the edge of a civic plaza and a stretch of open water. The expanding pyramid form integrates a compact footprint at ground level with progressively wider floors above. The building is clad in light bronze anodised aluminium panels with sequined perforations, interspersed with recessed curtain wall screens. This design gives the project a sculptural appeal and a striking visual effect.Finished in bronze anodised aluminium, the structural sealant glazed facade and commercial doors were specified for the ground floor. A Visible Grid Facade has being used for the strips of curtain walling to the three upper floors, with top hung concealed vents and aluminiumdoors providing access to the balconies.The library forms part of the vibrant quayside at Canada Water - a historic Docklands that was once a bustling port. It was designed to exemplify the importance of the library, education and community facilities for local people and focus on the new phase of regeneration.

CABI, the Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International, have moved into their brand new bespoke global headquarters for the organisation in Wallingford, Oxfordshire. Sitting in an area of outstanding natural beauty, this unique office development by architects, Scott Brownrigg, has been built with a low impact design and a strong emphasis on low carbon. The complete development incorporates energy-saving measures above current Building Regulations standards.  Whilst the outside of the building has been designed to be unobtrusive, allowing it to blend into its environment, internally the design has certainly been given the wow factor.  Rooflights allow natural light into the building, which continues to flow throughout by clever use of Lusso Atria glazing and Lusso 25 single frameless glazing. The glazed atrium has been installed with stunning affect and glazed partitions provide a 2,500sqm of workspace which incorporates a café restaurant, meeting rooms, and conference room/auditorium. This state-of-the-art headquarters is certainly fitting for an international organisation which will be visited by both guests and staff from around the world.     

Waddesdon School, a secondary school in Buckinghamshire, had issues with poor behaviour from students in their toilets and there was a shortage of girls toilets causing further problems to the schools. They approached Brookhouse for a solution.Our SolutionAfter visiting the school, our designers determined that the best solution was to create a open unisex washroom. By turning the washrooms into one washroom and creating an opening to the corridor meant that supervision and visibility into the area reduced the behaviour issues. This along with our unique school floor to ceiling cubicle system made in solid grade laminate and bolt through hardware, we were able achieve the durability required. By making the washrooms Unisex also spread out the demand and unutilised all the cubicles.We ProvidedWashroom DesignSpace Planning/3D VisualsProject ManagementDividing Wall Removed & Corridor Opening CreatedNew Waste ServicesFloor to Ceiling Solid Grade Cubicle IPS SytemDecoration & Hygiene Wall CladdingSuspended CeilingsVinyl FlooringElectrics and LightingIndividual Vent to each cubicle

Knowle C of E Primary School in Solihull has undergone phase two of their major washroom refurbishment. Phase two of the refurbishment included additional washbasins, taps and final installations such as lighting and flooring. As one of the chosen washroom manufacturers in the final phase, Franke Water Systems provided:·        1 x SOLX1800T Miranit washtrough ·        3 x F3SV1001 self-closing tapsThe washtrough and taps were provided to complete the final phase of the project. Maintaining a high standard of hygiene is a key element to consider when specifying school washrooms. Franke’s composite washtroughs and basins are seamlessly moulded in Miranit, an advanced resin and granite composite with a gelcoat, providing a non-porous, robust and hygienic finish. Miranit is several times stronger than ceramic, highly impact-resistant and virtually shatter-proof, making it ideal for busy school washroom environments. Also provided were three F3 self-closing taps, the F3S range of taps combine functionality, robustness, and maintenance-friendly design which is ideal for highly frequented school washrooms.  

We've met Nick & Vicky Architects at Holloway & Holloway, when they’d just finished their rear and side extension. As their family is now bigger, they decided to create a brand new loft extension.You’ve just finished remodelling your home. Congratulations! Tell us what was the timeline from buying the house to now?Well, it’s been quite the journey! We bought the house over 4 years ago now. We always bought it as a project, so we knew that it was going to be something that would take a number of years to complete.The house needed a lot of work from day 1. In fact, I have a photo, taken at 9 am the morning after we moved in with my wife sledgehammer in hand, knocking a wall down. I quit work shortly after we moved in and I spent the next few months working on the house, mostly getting the first floor fit for us to live in, but also fixing the kitchen and other areas.We basically took the first floor back to brick work and joists. We fitted new plumbing and electrics, installed a new bathroom, new floors and so on. I managed to get a new kitchen from free-cycle which so we could replace our one, which wasn’t really in a working state.Once that was done, we had a home that we could live in and work from and that was around the time that we started our practice, Holloway and Holloway.As we got busier with work, we started to get a bit more hands off with the actual building work and allow people who were more qualified than I was to start helping us out, and we focused more on the design work.The next stage was the side and rear extension which we did a couple of years later, finishing in early 2021. The idea being that we would have a nice entertaining space for us to spend time in with friends and family before we had children! A couple of weeks after we finished, Covid hit, and that dream didn’t become a reality. It was amazing to have a really lovely space for us to spend lockdown in though.The loft conversion was timed with us wanting to start a family. When Vicky fell pregnant, we started more serious arrangements to start this final stage of the works. It was finished (or mostly finished at least) the same week that our son was born, so we did manage to come home to a quiet house at least.Why did you choose to do the renovation in staged phases?It was mostly to do with money really. There were certain elements that we needed to do straight away to live comfortably in the property, but after we were settled, it was a question of saving up to be able to do the works. As we weren’t in need of extra bedrooms at the time, it seemed that we would get more immediate benefit out of the works to the ground floor so that is why we started there.Even if there wasn’t a need to save up we would likely have tried to do the work in phases so that we could stay in the house during the works. Moving out adds even more to the cost of the works, and as it was just us two in the house at the time, it was easy enough for us to adapt to moving around the house and living through the noise and dust of building works. It would have been a very different story with little ones to take care of as well.Why did you choose to add a loft extension to your home? And what are the most important things to keep in mind when designing a loft extension?For us we needed to build the loft extension to move our office space to the top of the house so that we had somewhere quiet to work. But regardless of our working situation, it is a great thing to do to maximise the space in your home.Converting a loft space or adding a dormer extension, is generally the most cost-effective way to add space to your home, especially in tight urban settings. For us, we were able to add two bedrooms and a bathroom to our home, which is vital for our growing family to expand into. By doing this work, it extends the life of our home for us, now we have a great sized family home, where otherwise we would likely have had to move in the future to get extra space as our family grows.We’ve designed and built lots of loft extensions as architects, so it was really interesting for us to try and take out what we thought were the most important lessons from the experiences we have had and put them all into our own project.Firstly, it is worth noting that our council will override planning policy in some circumstances, in favour of good design, so by using high quality materials, in our case the dark metal cladding, we were able to get permission for a larger extension than would have been allowable otherwise. So, though the cladding material was more expensive, we gained more space, and hence more saleable floor area.The next was insulation, this was a gamble for us as we know the theory about its benefits, but when you are having to balance costs on your building project it seems an easy place to cut back on and save money.Building regulations require a certain level of insulation, but you can go far beyond this, and more insulation means that your home will take on less heat in summer, keeping it cooler, and will let out less heat in winter, keeping it warmer. We decided to go well above the basic requirements, and we have found that just as the theory states, our loft is a much more comfortable space throughout the year than our neighbours, which we know gets uncomfortably hot in summer, to the extent that they struggle to work in the loft in mid-summer.The last lesson would be good ventilation. Though the additional insulation helps keep temperatures steady, when temperatures soar in the UK, it can still get very hot in your loft. This is compounded by the fact that all the warm air in your home will rise up to the top of the house. Adding an openable rooflight over the stairs is an incredible tool for thermally controlling your entire home. Opening it acts as a chimney letting all of the hot air out of the roof and pulling new fresh cooler air in at low level, creating a really nice through breeze in the home. The added benefit is that you also get loads of natural light over the stairs, which trickles down all the way to the ground floor.You’ve chosen to introduce both Vario by VELUX bespoke rooflights, regular VELUX windows, and VELUX curved glass rooflights. Why?There is method to the madness. Over the stairs, we wanted to have a rooflight that was sized to evenly fit the shape of the room, with an even offset from all the walls, so for that we needed the bespoke sizing of a Vario by VELUX flat rooflight.For the bedroom, we wanted to have some light come in from above, and although it would have been visually amazing to have a large rooflight here, we felt the VELUX Curved Glass roof window was more appropriate, as it had integrated blinds that would easily make the window blackout at the touch of a button, which Vario be VELUX will start offering as of December 2021.The VELUX windows are necessary to get light in from the front façade of the property via the pitched roof. These were the only way we could get light into the bathroom, and for our office, it enables the room to be dual aspect, which gives constant direct daylight and also fantastic through ventilation.We love the new studio roof window that VELUX has launched recently, but I just love the way the top hung light open, I think it looks so impressive. Also, as I’m fairly tall, the Top hung windows are great as I can walk underneath them when they are open easily. What impact do the rooflights and roof windows have on your everyday life at home and especially in relation to the thing you do at home?To be honest, we worked from home pre-pandemic, and so we spent a lot of time in our home even before the lockdowns came along and working practices began to change. We are firm believers that you need to make your home work for you rather than be set up for others and that really came to the forefront over the pandemic to a lot of our client’s minds, as they were suddenly not hosting people as much or at all and they had less spaces in the wider world they were able to visit. So, they started to think more about how their home could meet all of their needs.In practice, this could be as simple as putting a sofa bed into the spare room instead of a fixed bed that limits the space and is only used infrequently. This then allows you to turn the rest of the space into an arts and crafts room, or a cinema room for family movie nights. It's about trying to get the most use out of the space that you have.As far as the rooflights go, I’ve already mentioned the practical benefits of ventilation and natural light, but in many ways, I suppose the biggest impact they have is how they change spaces from what could be quite standard spaces into light, bright, modern spaces, they make you feel like you’re living in some sort of architectural magazine, and it is a lovely feeling that doesn’t really dampen over time.  

GEC Anderson stainless steel worktops were included in a recent Cornwall kitchen refurbishment, designed and installed by George Robinson Kitchens who produce hand crafted, bespoke kitchens, near Penzance. For homeowners, Mr. & Mrs. Bull, the choice of materials was pivotal to the design of their home kitchen, particularly, as their long-term plan is to use the space as a cookery school. Stainless steel was therefore a key element and was chosen not only for its visual properties and low lifetime cost but also for its ability to withstand heavy usage, to be heat resistant and to remain germ-free. From a visual perspective, the work surfaces make up a significant proportion of the colour and texture in the room. In this Georgian property in Cornwall, the materials and textures chosen make for an eclectic yet functional space. The inherent durability and unsurpassed hygienic properties of the brushed stainless steel elements from GEC Anderson will make it perform extremely well as a professional kitchen. The Tulip wood and Oak wood with its different painted finishes together with the white Silestone quartz top on the central island top provides a striking contrast to the stainless steel in one corner, giving a light and pleasant, contemporary, feel.The L-shaped brushed satin stainless steel worktop and integral sink is made to measure and benefits from being manufactured in one continuous piece thus maximising the use of space in the corner in which it is situated. Furthermore, with no joins at the sink bowl, edges and upstands, the surface remains germ free as well as being free of visual clutter and noise. One side of the L-shape includes a generously sized (500x400mm) single bowl and draining area, whilst the other, provides useful and practical work surface. A 100mm high, integral, back upstand was also specified, providing a neat, practical and watertight junction to walls.Owner Dr Matt Bull says, “My wife and I liked the toughness of the stainless steel and the fact that it can take hot and cold, doesn't stain, reflects light and provides an hygienic surface that is easy to clean. Stainless steel also gains character as it ages, where many surfaces will deteriorate, so that’s a real bonus.” He added, “We struggled to find anyone locally who could manufacture the stainless steel elements of the kitchen to a sufficiently high standard. The neatness of the welding and the configuration of the shape, drainer recess etc. were key to what GEC Anderson could offer.”GEC Anderson stainless steel worktops are supplied fully sound deadened, plastic protected 

Armourcoat’s Perlata architectural coating brings a pearlescent quality to Wakefields in Horsham, enhancing the fine gemstones, jewellery and watches on display in the Sussex store.Wakefields has a family heritage spanning more than 100 years and four generations, focussed on delivering personalised service to match its fine jewellery and iconic watch brands.To coincide with expansion of its Rolex showroom, Wakefields invested in a full store redesign. The objective was to elevate the customer experience and create a luxury boutique feel whilst retaining the warmth and charm of the store. Retail design consultant Innovare Design blended high-end design details to deliver a theatrical space, balanced with creation of a series of discreet personal consultation rooms.The choice of Armourcoat’s Perlata architectural coating in neutral shades has helped to deliver the ambience demanded. The subtle shimmer of the coating, achieved through inclusion of pearlescent pigments, highlights the contemporary, luxury feel without overpowering accent features, transforming light within and enhancing the pieces on display.Explained Innovare Creative Director Lloyd Blakey:“We explored different finishes that would exude a contemporary, luxury feel that would sit comfortably alongside the Wakefields offer. It needed to enhance, and add to, the layering of details of the scheme rather than overpower them."“Quite simply, Perlata was the right finish for the project. Its beautiful iridescent quality transforms the light as you move through and around the store. The finished scheme looks stunning and Perlata is one of the finishes that helps deliver the ‘wow’ factor the client was looking for."“Armourcoat was very helpful and supportive, especially bearing in mind much of the shop-fitting took place during and in-between lockdowns.”Added Wakefields Managing Director Dominic Wakefield:“Perlata was the perfect system to achieve a luxury wall finish to compliment the rest of the store. We like to create theatre and stories when our customers come in; Perlata gives us a chance to talk about the application and sparkle, which customers have loved.”Armourcoat Perlata is an architectural coating system available in 96 colours. Created from a matte basecoat and multiple pearlescent topcoat layers, Perlata is formulated to prevent mould, mildew and bacterial growth making it suitable for use in most internal environments, including bathrooms and swimming pools. It has a low VOC and is stain resistant and can be scrubbed/wiped clean.Project: Wakefields Jewellers, HorshamInterior Design: Innovare DesignPhotography: TobyPhillipsPhotography.co.uk

JT Atkinson, a family owned independent builders' merchant in the North of England, needed a lightweight yet robust drainage solution for their new branch in Stokesley. They required a reliable and durable solution which would be installed quickly, to ensure their 30th branch opened on time.  The branch yard would be a highly trafficked area, so the JT Atkinson team were seeking a drainage solution that could withstand large loads and constant heavy traffic of forklift trucks and articulated lorries.Technodrain is an advanced, linear drainage channel, providing versatility whilst being economic, light and quick to install. Constructed of High Density Polyethylene (HD-PE), it delivers long life with low whole-life cost. Having used Clark-Drain products at their other branch sites, the JT Atkinson team knew first-hand the quality of Clark-Drain’s products and customer service.Designed for surface water management, the versatility of Technodrain enables it to be used across all construction environments as a light, robust, solution for run-off surface design. Technodrain’s size-to-weight ratio maximises its savings in transport and installation costs, and this installation was within the limits set by the HSE manual handling guidelines for a one person lift.Chris Gilbertson, Project Manager for JT Atkinson, says: “We were looking for a quality drainage product which would be easy to install, able to withstand F900 loads, and be long lasting. Technodrain from Clark-Drain is the ideal solution and doesn’t disappoint. Not only does it provide us with the drainage we need at a competitive price, the installation was extremely easy thanks to its lightweight nature.”Technodrain was installed at the Stokesley branch of JT Atkinson in October 2019.WHY THIS PRODUCT WAS CHOSEN Hard wearing – Constructed of High Density Polyethylene (HD-PE), Technodrain delivers long life with low whole-life cost.Easy to install – Tongue and groove joints allow for ease of installation and the connection of multiple channels. Preformed lateral and vertical channel outlets also provide quick and easy connection to discharge pipes.Cost effective – whilst providing a safe environment and a highly efficient system for surface water clearance. BS EN1433:2002 – Load handling performance is rated at 90 tonnes, making it durable with strength to spare in an area used by a range of vehicles from forklift trucks to artic lorries.Hydraulic performance – With maximum through-flow of 8.25 litres per second and a water way area of 372cm2, it has more than enough capacity for JT Atkinson.Bolted locking system – Technodrain features a bolted locking system, with 4 bolts in every 500mm to avoid grating movement.

Arwel House, a mid-twentieth-century brick-built house nestled in the Staffordshire countryside, has undergone a remarkable transformation. Originally constructed in the 1950s, the house had lost its charm over the years due to wear and unsightly alterations.Gowercroft products used:Peveril Lift and Slide DoorsMelbourne DoorsHardwick Casement WindowsAccoya®Initially considering demolition, the owners consulted architect Benjamin Machin, who proposed a more sustainable and cost-effective approach. Machin envisioned a retrofit and remodelling process that would highlight the house's character and unique details, re-establishing its connection with the surrounding gardens and agricultural landscape.The interior rooms were refurbished, and a new two-story extension was added to provide additional living and bathroom space. The outdated veranda and sunroom at the front of the property were removed, along with their degraded PVC-u windows and joinery.A striking garden room now graces the south-facing elevation, featuring an imposing white façade that interacts with the shadows cast by nearby trees. Gowercroft Joinery played a pivotal role in this transformation, manufacturing large timber-framed windows and sliding doors for the garden room. White timber-clad columns, reminiscent of the original veranda, complement the overall design.Two covered external spaces adjacent to the garden room serve as pleasant sitting areas, bridging the gap between indoors and outdoors. Gowercroft's oversized timber-framed lift and slide patio doors, French doorsets, and classic casement windows flood the house with natural light. Their slim profiles harmonise with the surrounding materials and colours, seamlessly blending the transition from brick and quarry tiles to stone paving outside.Throughout the project, one set of Peveril lift and slide doors, three Melbourne French doors, and 22 Hardwick casement windows were installed. Manufactured from sustainable Accoya® wood and equipped with energy-efficient double glazing, these windows and doors ensure a comfortable interior environment while requiring minimal maintenance.Thanks to Benjamin Machin's bold design, Arwel House has been revitalised into a contemporary, light-filled, and inviting family home. The transformation has garnered love and appreciation from the entire family, breathing new life into this once tired and unremarkable 1950s house.“Gowercroft’s windows and doors strike the right balance between low maintenance, energy efficiency and innovation and a heritage rooted in traditional joinery and craftsmanship. Their slim profiles have an elegant simplicity with carefully considered sightlines that complement the overall design.”Benjamin Machin

BH2 is a £30m development creating a newly-constructed leisure complex in Bournemouth  •  Originally a two acre NCP car park and bus station, main contractors Vinci has built a new 10 screen Odeon Multiplex cinema, café, casino, restaurant and retail complex.  •  Structura was appointed to design and supply Kalwall translucent facades to enclose the external fire escape routes around the perimeter of the building.  •  Structura installed multiple Kalwall translucent elevations, totalling over 1000m2, providing natural daylight to internal areas by day and a soft ethereal glow which brings the area to life at night.The SolutionPanter Hudspith Architects replaced the original curtain wall and specified Kalwall® for the front elevation. Unusually, this unique translucent cladding is fitted with a tight 150mm wide grid, known as Verti-Kal™, which not only serves to emphasise height but is the first of its type in the UK. On this scheme the Kalwall panels also insulate to 0.78 w/m2 making the building eye-catching and sustainable.Unlike conventional glazing, Kalwall eliminates shadows and glare and the stark contrasts of light and shade. The system also enhances simplicity by eliminating the need for blinds, curtains or solar control. Even on cloudy days, the interior is bathed with natural daylight, which means less artificial lighting and, because Kalwall is highly insulating, energy costs are reduced.Kalwall is increasingly being used in the UK for new buildings and also for the refurbishment of cladding or rooflights on aged buildings. One of the main attractions of specifying Kalwall is its unique effect on both the interior and exterior. Although translucent, it offers the big advantage of privacy while the elevations appear crisp and simple. When illuminated at night they emit an inviting ethereal glow.The CommentsArchitect James Jeremiah comments, “This is the first time we’ve specified Kalwall and it fulfils our vision of retaining the modernist characteristics of the building. One of our original concepts for the building was of a zoetrope (one of the earliest forms of moving image) and there’s a strong history of using transparency in films with people moving behind the shadows. We felt the Kalwall system was a very good fit for what we wanted to achieve”.Amanda Birch, Technical Editor Building Design writes, “To appreciate fully the building’s transformation, it is best viewed from the street. The concrete structure has been retained along with its striking line of concrete columns, which are now a strong feature of the front elevation. The original coloured insulated glass panelled system has been replaced at first and second floor levels with Kalwall’s 75mm thick insulated cladding system creating a dynamic façade that is particularly effective at night.

When Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace planned a London venue for its roller-skating experience, it needed a durable, sprung hardwood floor that could withstand the heavy traffic of a busy roller-skating rink. The choice fell on Junckers SylvaSport beech flooring, a trusted floor system suitable for a multitude of activities. Working closely with the designers 93ft, the experienced team at Junckers’ approved flooring contractor Hutchison Flooring devised the optimal layout and choice of flooring system for the best roller-skating performance possible. A meticulous installation plan which encompassed working alongside all trades on site was formulated and consequently followed to the letter in order to bring the project in on time and budget. The building for the new venue is a Grade II listed former power station, which meant there were restrictions on fixing to the original fabric of the building. The brief was that no alterations to the substrate were allowed, nor could the floor be fixed down, the entire flooring system had to be floating. The existing surface to build the floor from was a concrete substrate that was not completely level. To overcome the problem, Hutchison Flooring used a low-level New Era cradle and batten system from Junckers, which provided a laser-perfect level floor surface. Hutchison Flooring lay a polythene membrane with a 150mm overlap and taped joints to ensure sufficient vapour barrier followed by the cradle which involved carefully packing to the exact tolerances for every sprung cradle to ensure a perfectly level and flat floor for the skating ring. 22mm battens where laid in the cradles, brick bond staggered to create a perfect and reliable bond to the floor when nailed onto the battens. Junckers SylvaSport beech flooring was laid using a compression nailer on every batten on every row and 0.4mm spacers were included on every row to allow the correct expansion within the floor. Inspiration for the interior came from the original Flipper’s venue run by Ian Ross in the late Seventies and early Eighties. The client brief was for an immersive roller-skating experience with world-class sound and lighting. Central to the state-of- the-art indoor rink was a jet-black floor, an element the client insisted on. The black surface amplifies the atmosphere by maximising the reflection of the overhead lights, LED screens and mirrored panels on the sides. Junckers black-stained beech SylvaSport flooring has the desired jet-black, matt finish to provide the perfect backdrop to Flipper’s logo which is placed in the centre of the rink. Specialist court marking company MJ Courtmarkers custom made CNC laser cut vinyl templates of the logo which was painted with Junckers’ HP Sportsline line marking paint before being overcoated with HP Sports lacquer. 

At Twinfix, we’re not just about installing canopies; we’re about revolutionising airport environments with our innovative solutions. One such solution that has significantly impacted passenger safety, well-being, and overall airport sustainability is our Multi-Link-Panel NF system. Let’s delve deeper into how this product enhances the airport experience: Enhanced Passenger Safety and Well-being:The Multi-Link-Panel NF system is designed with passenger safety as a top priority. Its robust construction and high-quality materials ensure durability and stability, even in the most challenging weather conditions. By providing sheltered walkways and waiting areas, the system enhances passenger comfort and well-being, reducing exposure to harsh elements such as rain, wind, and excessive sunlight. This contributes to a more pleasant and stress-free airport experience for travellers and staff alike. Versatile Applications:Our Multi-Link-Panel NF system isn’t just limited to walkways; its versatility allows for various applications throughout the airport environment. From covered passenger drop-off points to outdoor dining areas and baggage collection zones, the system can be tailored to suit the specific needs of each airport. This flexibility ensures that every space within the airport is optimised for functionality and passenger convenience. Sustainability Focus:At Twinfix, we’re committed to sustainability, and our Multi-Link-Panel NF system reflects this ethos. Constructed from recyclable materials and designed for longevity, the system minimises environmental impact while maximizing resource efficiency. Additionally, the natural light-transmitting properties of our canopies reduce the need for artificial lighting during daylight hours, further reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions. Key Benefits of our products:Durability: Engineered to withstand the rigors of airport environments, ensuring long-lasting performance and minimal maintenance requirements.Aesthetics: Sleek and modern design enhances the visual appeal of airport surroundings, creating a welcoming atmosphere for passengers.Customisation: Tailored solutions to meet the unique requirements of each airport, ensuring optimal functionality and efficiency.Safety: Designed with passenger safety in mind, providing shelter and protection from the elements.Sustainability: Environmentally friendly materials and energy-efficient design contribute to airport sustainability goals. From Belfast to Bristol, our Multi-Link-Panel NF system is transforming airports across the UK, setting new standards for safety, sustainability, and passenger experience. As we continue to innovate and evolve, we’re committed to partnering with airports to create spaces that prioritise safety, comfort, and environmental responsibility.

A new crematorium facility for Huntingdon Town Council, Huntingdon Crematorium is a collection of buildings equipped with ceremonial spaces and the appropriate crematory functions. The specification of Vandersanden’s Perla and Morvan bricks has resulted in buildings that have made a striking contribution to the landscape of the greenfield site while also helping to change the accepted perception of crematorium buildings. “We were looking for a way of making the process of going to an end of life ceremony uplifting and hopeful,” explains Mark Doohan, managing director at Benchmark Architects. “We had the idea of creating a curved, white, brick building within which there are beautiful, light filled and airy spaces.” When envisioning the scheme, the team at Benchmark Architects realised that by inserting a black brick wall across the site they could create a ‘canvas’ that provided the separation between the front of house and working areas of the crematorium. Against this, on one side, they packed three curved white brick volumes to create the key spaces, adjusted in height according to the hierarchy of their importance: the entrance lobby, waiting room and chapel. Out of sight, behind the wall, are the cremators, plant rooms, offices and other functional elements. The design focuses on a central drum flooded with natural light. The main building contains the ceremonial hall for 125 people, waiting rooms and crematory with capacity for two cremators. A second building contains a multi-purpose function room - that can be used for wakes - and a café with associated catering facilities and administrative offices. Having created the design vision, the choice of appropriate bricks was crucial. Good white bricks are hard to come by, often they’re tinged with yellow or beige; finding black bricks that are not simply colour coated or are a dark blue is equally hard, says Doohan.“We were delighted when we were able to find the Vandersanden bricks. We genuinely love the texture and through colour quality of Vandersanden’s white Perla and black Morvan bricks. They set off our concept perfectly, with the white brick capturing the light in the way that we envisioned when first sketching out the idea.” A double soldier course heads the windows to form a band around the building and is repeated close to the top of the main drum. There is also a recessed course 500 mm off the ground that creates a scored line at the base, bringing additional balance to the building. This is achieved by setting one course back by some 25 mm. Another advantage of the Vandersanden bricks is that they can be used in the ground below DPC level, visually rooting the building to the landscape. It was essential that the volumes were homogenous in feel so a good mortar match was vital. Lime mortar was selected and was aesthetically important due to its colour, texture and because its flexibility reduced the number of movement joints required. The lime used, NHL 3.5, was naturally white; for the black brickwork it was pigmented. When seen from a distance, only the overall form of the building is perceived but, on getting closer, the brick details start to stand out. Then, when really close, the contribution that the texture, pattern, shape and almost handmade quality of the individual bricks makes to the quality of the building becomes clear. We’re always keen to specify products where we get really good technical support, notes Doohan. “Vandersanden were excellent at providing advice and technical backup whenever we had a question. Since becoming aware of Vandersanden products, they are our go-to source for brick. As architects, we’re image-based creatures so the website is incredibly helpful. It’s an excellent way of being able to see the bricks in loads of different and inspiring building types. Many brick suppliers don’t show that connection. Most importantly, our client for Huntingdon Crematorium is delighted with the brickwork.”To find out more about the bricks used in this project or to see the wide range of high-quality bricks available from Vandersanden, click on the 'View more' link

Having trouble viewing this email? Click here to view onlinePRESS RELEASE:Towering triumph for Gerflor’s Taraflex® at Beaconsfield High SchoolBeaconsfield High School, in Buckinghamshire have been delivering a highly successful academic culture for more than over 50 years. Creativity and physical activity are just some of the additional life skills and behaviours that are taught to pupils. When the school wanted to refurbish their main sports hall, the natural choice was to turn to international flooring specialist Gerflor to supply 635m2 of their world class Taraflex® Performance vinyl sports flooring, in Light Blue, to successfully complete the project.Taraflex® Performance is a synthetic indoor sports flooring that can be specified for a wide range of sports applications, in a variety of sectors and is available in an extensive choice of vibrant designs, making it the ideal choice for a host of locations. With a complete range of outstanding sports surfaces that can meet specification requirements for compliance with P1/P2/P3 shock absorption Taraflex® sports floorings are perfect for delivering optimal safety and protection for users, regardless of their age and sporting ability.

Stainless steel splashbacks, by GEC Anderson, were recently deployed in an apartment kitchen, overlooking London’s Hampstead Heath. The specification was a little challenging due to the shape and size of the required pieces. In particular, the curved corner within the kitchen gave the project very much a one-off feel. Rather than merely being an internal feature, the curve follows the outer form of the brick building.The subtle blend of colours exudes calmness but does not appear cold. This is probably due to the lighting as well as the contrasting colours in the adjacent spaces, notably, the red bench seating but also the dark bookshelf that also follows the curvature of the room.The stainless steel splashbacks were made to measure, to precisely suit the design and requirements and were produced in GEC Anderson’s standard brushed satin finish. Measuring and installation was also undertaken by GEC Anderson.GEC Anderson (founded in 1962) specialise in purpose made stainless steel sinks, worktops, cabinets, shelving and splahsbacks. Their products have been specified in a great number and variety of projects, ranging from residential kitchens to commercial and public spaces, including health, education, infrastructure, retail, offices and the arts.

The recent refurbishment of 4 Chiswell Street by Ben Adams Architects includes Armourcoat’s Istria polished plaster wall finish. Situated close to the historic Bunhill cricket ground in Islington, this once tired office building has been re-imagined as a modern and open workspace.Entering through an impressive new façade and front entrance, the architect’s design includes a double height reception space bathed in natural light. A sculpturally fluted wall finished in Istria polished plaster and custom terrazzo floor continue a circular motif repeated throughout the design. With exposed services and stylish use of concrete colours, the structure has been transformed into a contemporary and relevant commercial building with a distinctive urban feel.Named after the characteristic building stone of Venice, the Istria polished plaster finish is made from a combination of slaked lime, recycled marble powder and special additives. The Istria finish is full of ingrained surface movement and creates a matt or honed stone appearance. Tonal variation and surface movement within the finish complements other natural materials including wood, stone and fabric.

Built on a largely derelict gap site, The Works is a development of 34 two-bedroomed apartments in the popular Yorkhill / Finnieston area of Glasgow, offering panoramic views over the city and the River Clyde. To accommodate the site’s slope, the development comprises a four-storey north side and a six-story south side.The development had to overcome a number of issues, including planning issues around daylighting and massing, and the challenge of building immediately adjacent to the Yorkhill railway tunnel.PROJECT INFOThe Works provides residents with off-street parking and use of a large communal garden, with ground floor properties having private rear gardens. Design emphasis is on open-plan layouts and generous room sizes. To take advantage of the views, the apartments feature south-facing and Juliet-style balconies.Ecostock Belgravia Gault Blend was selected to meet the requirements of both the client and planning for a high quality, light buff brick with grey tones that would match the surrounding buff sandstone tenements. The sustainability credentials and technical performance of Ecostock, with its low water absorption suiting the wet weather typical of the west of Scotland’s, also contributed to the selection decision.

Fastlight Direct have undergone a refurbishment of their washrooms and chose Franke Water Systems as one of the chosen washroom manufacturers. Products provided included:2 x ANMW411 single Quadro Miranit Washbasins1 x ANMW421 double Quadro Miranit Washbasin 4 x F3SV1001 self-closing tapsMaintaining a high standard of hygiene is a key element to consider when specifying any washroom project. Franke’s Miranit composite wash basins are seamlessly moulded in Miranit, an advanced resin and granite composite material with a gelcoat layer, providing a non-porous, robust and hygienic finish. Miranit is several times stronger than ceramic, highly impact-resistant and virtually shatter-proof, making it ideal for busy washroom environments. The F3S self-closing taps are perfect for reducing water consumption with its proven piston-free self-closing water control. These highly durable self-closing F3 taps have been tried and tested over a million times, ensuring a long-lasting solution. The push cap is light and easy to use, with adjustable flow stop time for a one push operation.

The ChallengeMade up largely of two 19th-Century coal warehouses, the site needed to be drastically re-thought to evolve into a new retail complex comprising more than 50 shops and restaurants.With high levels of footfall anticipated, the safety of individuals would need to be a primary factor in its redesign.As well as this, creating light-filled spaces to attract shoppers from across London would be integral to the project’s long-term success.As a result, specifying materials capable of balancing safety requirements alongside aesthetics and practicality was critical.The SolutionSupplying in excess of 150 square metres of Pyroguard Protect toughened fire-rated glass to various classifications – including E60, EW120, and EI60 – to the project, Pyroguard was able to fulfill the architect’s safety requirements, while delicately balancing the need for aesthetic excellence to contribute to the repurposing of these historic buildings.Working closely with Propak Architectural Glazing who were enlisted to design, manufacture and install a large range of steel glazing systems for the project, Pyroguard created a bespoke thickness of 31 mm, instead of the traditional 25 mm for the EI60 requirement, to perfectly complement the systems.

Located in the Welsh countryside of Rhos-Fawr, a family were building their own Victorian style farmhouse and wanted sash windows to complete the traditional look. The homeowners wanted windows that were over two-metres tall, with a genuine traditional appearance and - because of the exposed location - effective weatherproofing. White woodgrained Ultimate Rose windows were ideal for this project. This conservation-grade timberalternative option allowed for the large sizes (1500 x 2350mm) that this home required, while remaining indistinguishable from timber originals. In addition, our Ultimate Rose can be fully Secure by Design accredited providing full peace of mind. To keep with the Victorian style, a single astragal bar configuration was chosen along with a deep bottom rail. Ultimate Rose also includes a 35mm slim and seamless midrail as standard, providing fully authentic sightlines and allowing the maximum amount of natural light into the home. As a result, the home benefits from impressively large sash windows that beautifully match the traditional style of the building, but in a maintenance-free package that includes the thermal and security performance that comes with modern materials and manufacturing techniques. 

Several disciplines are going to be joining forces under one roof in the future university centre for dentistry (UZB) in Basel. A centre of dentistry competence ranging from basic care to research and teaching is being built. Every year, dentists, dental and preventive care assistants and dental hygienists will be administering more than 80,000 treatments in the 5-storey building.The staircases were a key area of focus on this project, both for architectural reasons and in light of the strict sound insulation requirements. All staircases and landings have a bare architectural concrete finish. Compliance with the requirement of an impact sound level delta ΔLn,w* of 28 dB was mandatory in order to protect the quiet areas (e.g. treatment rooms, lecture halls, library, etc.) from distracting noise.Products from the Schöck Tronsole® range have been implemented for acoustic insulation. These impact sound insulation products enable a structural connection of the staircases and landings with no acoustic bridges whatsoever. Correct planning and installation of Schöck Tronsole® in a system results in a blue line visible at the treated areas. It is the mark of quality for reliable impact sound insulation and acoustic bridge-free installation.

Park House surgery in Cannock is an NHS facility serving the local community. Offering a wide range of health services, it is a busy centre with constant pressure on room space.Working with Horsley Huber Architects and contractors, Three Sixty Commercial Interiors, Style was specified to install two moveable walls to enable the surgery to divide its office space into separate rooms, as and when required.The Dorma Hüppe Variflex moveable walls, which are light and smooth to operate, allow staff to quickly reconfigure the office space, depending on the number of people involved and activities taking place.Delivering an impressive 55dB acoustic barrier, staff can work, provide client consultations, host meetings, or run training sessions either side of the walls, completely undisturbed.At Park House surgery an oak finish was added to the panels, however the individual surface finishes are almost unlimited - from genuine wood veneers to decor surfaces.Style is the exclusive UK partner to Dorma Hüppe, Skyfold and SWG and offers an extensive range of moveable, folding and partitioning walls with manual, semi-automatic or fully automatic operation suitable for all requirements and budgets.

IntroductionSurespan designed and manufactured the highest hatch in the world, a 600mm diameter submarine access hatch located 816 meters up on the Burj Khalifa. The Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building, soaring 828 meters above Dubai. The design for the 162-story tower combines local cultural influences with cutting-edge technology to achieve high performance in an extreme desert climate.Products suppliedWe supplied;Surespan was selected for its engineering expertise, innovative designs, and unique skills.The team designed and manufactured a 600mm diameter, polish grade 316 stainless steel simulated submarine access hatch with handwheels. The hatch is located at 816 meters and is used for maintenance access to the aircraft warning lights.The projectAs part of the 1.5-billion-dollar mega Downtown Dubai project, the government of Dubai decided to build the world’s tallest building. This project redefines what is possible in the design and engineering of supertall buildings.  Architect firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill design inspiration for the tower was taken from the shape of a regional desert flower the Hymenocallis, also known as the desert lily and the patterning systems embodied in Islamic architecture.

Raising the bar of commercial space in the city centre, the new 77,000 sq. ft. of prestigious office space required a premium washroom shower cubicle solution.Unity Full Height shower cubicles were specified in the basement shower area of Dublin Landings. With minimal floor and ceiling clearances and flush fronts, Unity Full Height ensures maximum privacy for end users.A sturdy, waterproof and easy to maintain material was required for the 19 new shower cubicles, so Solid Grade Laminate (SGL) was specified. Also impact, scratch and heat resistant, SGL is an ideal choice for busy washroom facilities such as these at Dublin Landings. To complement the modern décor of the room, our popular light grey laminate ‘Cloud’ was selected for the full height shower cubicles, creating a bright, fresh and calm environment.Unity’s stainless steel and satin anodised aluminium hardware is durable and corrosion resistant, ideal for commercial shower areas. Some of the cubicles' rise and fall butt hinges were set to fall open, allowing office staff to easily identify vacant shower cubicles.Read the full case study for more details.

After almost 30 years, Bellway Homes has relocated to a new purpose-built headquarter office building. Based in Newcastle Upon Tyne, the company have settled into the newly formed energy- efficient Airview Park adjacent to Newcastle Airport.  The company were previously based in a small, listed property with cellular offices that were no longer fit for purpose. With light and spacious open-plan office space, the move was the perfect opportunity to support the company’s growth.  The facility houses 100 staff members and include high-spec welfare facilities including a gym, breakout room and a roof terrace. The state-of-the-art office space also features a new training hub providing educational facilities for Bellway Academy. Benefitting from a rich landscape setting, the overall design concept was to create a ‘Pavilion in a Park’. With this in mind, the external design was equally as important as the building itself. Various Tobermore block paving and permeable paving products were used. The hard landscaping featured Tobermore’s award winning paving product Braemar. The premium product fulfilled both aesthetic and design aspirations. 

First opened in 2011, the Galaxy Resort is one of the largest and most exclusive venues in the world’s gaming capital, Macau, where 36 million people chance their luck every year. Interfloor was proud to be involved in this ambitious project, supplying 108,000 sqm of our Tredaire Defender & 25,000 sqm Tredaire Xtra sponge rubber underlay for the guestrooms, public areas and corridors with an additional 5,000 sqm of our Tredaire FR6 high density PU underlay for hotel corridors.Tredaire Defender was specified at design stage, as this type of sponge rubber textured flat helps to give a luxurious feel, protects the carpet under heavy traffic and passes a wide range of international flammability tests at a cost-effective price.Tredaire FR6 flame retardant underlay was used in the corridors as they wanted a lightweight alternative, and the high-density PU composition is both light and durable with an End Use Classification (BS 5808: 1991: HC/U) Heavy Contract Use, perfect for the high footfall and wheeled baggage. The Tredaire underlay range is renowned for comfort. First released in 1958, the highly regarded Tredaire range is available in crumb rubber, sponge rubber, recycled PU foam for numerous types of flooring

Hotel Café Royal has just undergone a complete refurbishment and internal re-build. Part of the new complex is a state-of-the-art Spa and Gym which is located in the basement. Directly next to the hotel is Regent Street, below which runs the Bakerloo underground train line.Structure-borne noise levels from the trains were far too high to create the relaxing environment required for a top class Spa. The acoustic consultants therefore specified that all of the noise sensitive spaces must be isolated on a Stravifloor Deck concrete floating floor system.Café Royal’s 1,200 sqm Wellbeing Centre provides a personal and intimate holistic experience. It has a large lap pool and four different areas, corresponding to the four natural elements: spa/water, gym/fire, yoga/air and organic bar/earth.The spa offers a variety of Watsu hydro-experiences, a private and communal Hammam and signature Akasha treatments. Moods are enhanced by restorative music, aromas and gentle lighting. The gym has the most advanced fitness equipment, including Kinesis machines. There is a spacious aerobics studio and a private training room. Yoga, Tai-Chi and Pilates are offered in the calming area, with bespoke classes.

In the heart of Rome, thanks to stone-look outdoor porcelain tiles a private villa is coloured with the appeal and practicality of Atlas Concorde products.A welcoming atmosphere and innovative design take shape in an exclusive residence thanks to Atlas Concorde outdoor tiles that give the indoor and outdoor environments an extremely contemporary look. Employed in the outdoor areas, stone-look tiles on both the floor and on the walls translate nature into a material suitable for designing spaces with an enveloping, suggestive atmosphere. The pool area and the surrounding environment are flooded with intense colours and textures, porcelain tiles for the outdoors being used in different sizes and contrasting colours: light tones and bold hues guarantee a pure creativity able to offer superior technical qualities and the aesthetic versatility that distinguishes the original materials. The refined beauty of the stone look in a Grip finish, with the excellent technical performance of porcelain tiles for outdoors, is the perfect choice for the design of outdoor spaces and environments that require the highest standards of durability and safety. Stylish refinement and attention to detail can also be found in some interior spaces of the building where concrete-look porcelain tiles and wood-look porcelain tiles become the protagonists of a modern, sophisticated style of furnishing.

Nearly forty years after the lights were switched off at Battersea Power Station, a decommissioned Grade II listed coal-fired power station, located on the south bank of the River Thames, this much loved London landmark recently re-opened to the public following a transformational eight-year restorationApple Inc. will be leasing approximately 500,000 sq ft. across 6 floors of the central Boiler House and plans to move all of its 1,400 London employees to the new venue. This will make Apple by far the largest tenant at Battersea Power Station.221m² of Stravifloor Channel, a resilient high-performance floating floor based on floor channels containing steel springs as resilient supports was installed to decouple the acoustically critical listening, screening and control room spaces at Battersea Power Station.The added insulation material between the channels contributes to the acoustic optimization of the spaces by preventing the so-called standing wave effect to take place within the air void.During the installation of the acoustic floating floor, careful attention was paid to the many service penetrations as improper installation would most certainly lead to rigid connection which in turn affect the system’s performance.

Emmett Russell Architects has designed social housing on several infill sites on the Northern fringes of Bristol to Passivhaus standard, achieving thermal comfort solely by post-heating or post-cooling of the fresh air mass. The projects address the demand for smaller housing units.The key architectural challenge was to make efficient use of tight site limitations without overlooking neighbouring properties. The metal screened balconies allow light into the first floor flats whilst minimising views into adjacent gardens. The balcony screens step down at the sides to open up and allow longer oblique views.DeltaWing-70 was chosen to fulfil this requirement. The louvred panels were inverted to provide a privacy screen which combined the maximum screening effect in a downwards direction with minimum restriction of natural daylight.Lang+Fulton also supplied panels of PL-66×11/30×2 to form a heel-proof decking for the balconies.In addition, DeltaWing-100 was used to create secure, visually obscured storage for two bikes at each property which was integrated within the entrance canopies. Some of the properties had 2000mm wide stores with double doors, others were 900mm wide with single swing doors for vertically hung bikes.

Tew Farmhouse and Barns, Oxfordshire was a conversion of a Grade II listed farmhouse into six luxury holiday lets.Working to the client's brief, the Architectural Designers at Charlie Luxton Design scoped out the design of the luxury accommodation to achieve a high-quality finish whilst retaining the idyllic barn-like character.The rooflights needed to align with the design concept externally, integrating seamlessly with the zinc roof, whilst contributing to the airy and light interior design. Neo Rooflights were selected for their frameless interior and edge-to-edge glazing technology to maximise the viewable space and flood the top floor rooms with natural daylight.The technical design team at The Rooflight Co helped to marry vision to solution by creating a bespoke baseplate that provided the level of detail required to ensure the rooflights work alongside the roof, not simply sit within in. The technical team also advised egress Neo Rooflights to provide a means of suitable fire escape access and ensure the buildings conformed with building regulations.The Neo Rooflight demonstrated its suitability to be used within the Grade II listed farmyard within the context of it originally being a historic non-domesticated building. The rooflights were not only practical within the design, but the appearance was in keeping with the aesthetics of the times.

Completed in November 2014, the Four Seasons Dubaisits beside Jumeirah Beach, just ten minutes fromDubai’s famous commercial district.California based architect WATG worked alongsideinterior designer BAMO to create a resort heavilyinfluenced by mediterranean architecture and the hotel’sseaside location. For example, the lobby sits underneathan octagonal dome finished with gold leaf that enhancesthe natural light coming through the windows.Each of the 237 guestrooms come with a balcony,offering panoramic views of the sea or the city’sextravagant skyline, punctuated by the world’s tallestbuilding, the Burj Khalifa.The luxury hotel required a tailored package toensure it’s aesthetic flair was complemented bythe door furniture.The intricate detail on the Royal Suite doors wasmatched by custom made lattice pull handles in a pewterfinish (far right image), whilst the rest of the suite andpublic areas were supplied with pull and knob handles ina co-ordinated bronze finish.In contrast, the hotel opted for a polished finish in thepresidential suite, with nickel and stainless steel thepreferred materials. A full spectrum of door furniture wasapplied including lever handles, lock cases and doorclosers, all supplied in the desired polished finish.