"lighting"

Web developers, Mission Communications, were looking to make a positive impact on visitors to their West End offices. Stainless steel specialists, GEC Anderson ,were asked to provide the stainless steel elements, comprising surface, side-panels and shelf components that formed part of the main reception counter. With some imaginative use of lighting as well as glass panes, the result was very creative but also highly professional looking. Behind the main counter were some other stainless steel worktops as well as sinks that formed part of the office tea point and catering facilities.GEC Anderson’s usual EN 1.4301 grade brushed satin stainless steel was used throughout.

Products: Flexi light – Flexi Base & Extender frames, Flexi heavy – Ahu Frameworks, Flexi everyday – Duct, pipe and electrical containment. Services: VRF Condensers & Air handling units. Roof build-up: Warm roof design – PIR/PUR insulation with PVC/TPO field membrane. Supplied via a wholesaler in Cardiff, our hot dip galvanised frameworks were supplied in lengths and widths to suit each unit being supported. With all products available from stock, the contractor ordered frameworks in stages, to suit the phased project programme, and eliminated having to find space within an already restricted working environment for everything to be delivered at once.

When the last remaining building of Birmingham’s first gas works was bought by the Church of England, they were aware that, when newly constructed in 1818, its main function was the supply of gas to illuminate the dark streets. Now redeveloped into a vibrant church named St. Luke's, Gas Street it offers a different kind of light to the people of the city.In its new role, the former Gas Retort House now has a growing congregation of over 300, mainly comprising of young people and students, who are led by The Revd. Tim Hughes, his wife Rachel and a dynamic team who are committed to making positive impact on Broad Street and the wider area.

The development of Canary Wharf has forever changed the skyline of London, turning the ramshackle Docklands area into one of the world’s most prestigious business districts. With a stunning mix of exquisite materials and superior finishes, this stylish office could be assumed to be the interior of a luxurious resort. Vtec’s dark wood Supaslat slatted ceiling beautifully complements the soft carpets and elegant furnishings. Designed for a seamless installation experience and easy integration of lighting, our Supaslat ceilings complete the sleek and sophisticated interior, echoing the superb quality of the building and the overall estate. Explore how SupaSlat was the perfect option in this office design and the ways we helped to make the installation process easy.

Washroom designed and installed washrooms and backstage dressing rooms for an iconic Grade II listed West End theatre, using brass effect laminate and marble-effect Corian to create the sumptuous design which mirrors the theatre’s stunning Art Deco style auditorium. The full height Alto toilet cubicles installed were finished with a unique high-sheen brass effect laminate and as a contrast, the Concerto integrated duct panel system was manufactured using black laminate. Completing the washrooms are the Corian solid surface vanities specified in a light grey marble with individual square counter-top ceramic sinks, red splashbacks and brass taps.

Our case study video featuring our customer, Interior Writer and Stylist Reena. The case showcases a single storey Bungalow, transformed into a contemporary, Scandinavian inspired family home, with the use of Vario by VELUX Rooflights. Reena, like us, is passionate about Daylight and Fresh Air and whilst this is evident throughout her home, the Danish concept of Hygge was also a huge inspiration for her renovation. Hygge = Referring to comfort, pleasure and warmth within simple soothing things such as a cosy atmosphere. We think Reena has managed to achieve exactly that, with the use of Natural Light reflecting and shifting against beautiful raw materials inside her home. 

Washroom created a unique washroom space using a mix of marble, brass and oak for this Grade II Listed refurbished office building. The brass effect accessories including wall-mounted taps, coat hooks, handles and cubicle locks, were paired with marble vanity splashbacks and oak veneer toilet cubicles. The bespoke Corian vanities were manufactured with rounded edge counter-top sinks and inset waste bins. Washroom's above sink Tego hinged mirror system, which includes concealed storage for soap and paper towel dispensers, also feature curved edges to reflect the sink shape and are backlit to provide soft lighting.

Behind the façade of the iconic Grade II Listed Old Chelsea Town Hall, sits Chelsea Sports Centre. As part of a refurbishment of the showers and changing room areas, Washroom installed its flush front glass iLockers, back-painted in dark grey, together with Forte changing cubicles, manufactured from grey solid grade laminate (SGL), complete with unique Perspex integral roof to let in light while providing complete privacy for users and matching Forte toilet and shower cubicles. Washroom also manufactured bespoke ‘Black Quartz’ Corian vanity units and make-up shelves and installed its Legato benching to complete the design.

 Adidas chose the R-Tile Dovetail Textured Light Grey for their refurbishment project in Stockport.The R-Tile not only met all their strict accreditation needs, but it also provided the solution to their functional constraints.   The project requirements were:Surface area to cover 3,000m2Must be able to handle manual and electric pallet trucksFire retardant - Bfl S1Fast installationImpact resistantNo adhesive or damp-proof membrane requiredHardwearingReduce dust and noiseEasy to clean and maintainCE accredited R-Tile Textured Dovetail by R-Tek Manufacturing was the clear choice, we supplied and fitted a durable, hardwearing flooring suitable for their needs and requirements.

In 2010, Protech where approached by The Clegg Group for a renovation project of an eight storey 1930’s building.Originally known as Shaftesbury House, the building was opened in 1938 to house migrant workers in Leeds that had previously been living in appalling conditions. The development had deteriorated and was eventually closed and boarded up in 1998. As part of a regeneration programme of the area, Leeds City Council co ordinated the redevelopment of the site into what is now known as Greenhouse, a mixed-use block of eco-flats.  Roofing:ROOFING: Sarnafil® Light Grey G410-15EL.Sika® S-Vap 500.120 mm PIR Insulation.Sarnafil® Walkway.

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

Working with architect, Sheppard Robson, and contractor, Overbury, Style was specified to install two Dorma Hüppe semi-automatic Variflex glass moveable walls in Wellington Place, a group of prestigious, mixed-use developments in Leeds city centre. Separating the catering facility from meeting areas in a key office building, the glass operable walls deliver an impressive 52dB Rw acoustic integrity, providing outstanding privacy for meetings and gatherings whilst maximising the use of natural light. Addressing the ongoing need for social distancing, moveable wall systems can be effectively utilised to create discrete employee ‘bubbles’ by dividing office space into smaller areas.

In 2016, Reading Borough Council and the British Cycling invested over £350,000, in a joint funded scheme, into the Palmer Park Sports Stadium.This investment was set to fund the renovations to the Velodrome track fencing, lighting and other improvements to the cycle track in order to improve visitor experiences.After the restoration, Palmer Park’s velodrome track was officially reopened to the public on March 11th 2017 by the Mayor of Reading, Mohammed Ayub and representatives from the British Cycling.The BriefThe brief for this project was set out by the specific requirements both clients wanted for the Safety Velodrome Fencing.Increase the safety and security of the perimeter fencing around the track.Must be specified by the British Cycling adhering to appropriate standards.

The Chocolate Works is an award winning £50.0m housing project on a strategic site bounded by York Racecourse Conversation Area and the listed Terry’s of York chocolate manufacturers building, both intrinsic to the city’s rich history. The development by David Wilson Homes, provides 320 homes including apartments and family houses. IG’s standard lintels, corner lintels and windposts provide the necessary structural support for bright and stylish open-plan spaces across multiple floors.Challenge:Since the closure of the factory, the unused industrial site had been bought and sold on several occasions. A viable scheme could not be agreed and developed to respond to the local surroundings, complementing and referencing the adjacent Grade II listed chocolate factory.Solution:David Wilson Homes used community involvement at the initial design workshop which gave local people and key stakeholders a voice in the scheme’s design. The layouts of the homes achieved are simple and clear and focus on the demands of the residents for modern and contemporary style living with high ceilings and large windows providing ample natural light.IG’s technical team designed wide inner leaf corner lintels accommodating a range of sizes for ‘The Leetham’ house type for both kitchen and study areas. IG’s corner lintels allowed for flexible open-plan spaces to be suffused with natural light through a clean and minimalistic design approach. All the lintels were supplied with customised steel support posts for each mitred corner and tailored to include factory fitted spigots located in the cavity to ensure that no steelwork was visible, with the post being encased at the corner to achieve the architectural design feature.

The Project The world-famous Lords cricket ground has undergone a huge redevelopment scheme. Phase 1, The Warner Stand, has undergone complete modernisation by Main Contractor BAM and was officially opened by His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh on 3rd May 2017.  The refurbishment includes works to the ornate, iconic Victorian Pavilion, with a wing-like roof and fabric canopy; the seating, ensuring maximum visibility for spectators; and the indoor bars and restaurants with panoramic glass windows ensuring the ultimate experience. The Challenge Deliver multiple specifications across differing floors and areas. Propose a system that will deliver a reflective aesthetic, similar to glass. Manufacture and install toughs at bespoke lengths requiring site joints   The SolutionExcelsior was delighted to work on this prestigious project with Populous Architects and BAM Construction. Several specifications and finishes were chosen across the project, our Planar 20 in High Gloss being a favourite. The High Gloss laminate created a glass like, reflective finish which opened up the space and made for a truly show stopping installation. Designer White Solid Surface tops, and Stainless-Steel finishes were also used to dramatic effect across the scheme.SpecificationProduct Range: Planar 20Doors: 12mm SGL, Abet 478 Light Grey Lucida Gloss, Abet 879 Graphite Grey MattPilaster: 20mm SGL, Abet 478 Light Grey Lucida Gloss, Abet 879 Graphite Grey MattPartition: Partition: 12mm SGL, Abet 410 Ice White Lucida Gloss, Polyrey B070 Blanc Megeve MattIronmongery: Stainless Steel

Originally an anonymous, almost forbidding, seven-storey office block constructed in the 1980s, York House on Pentonville Road in Islington is being transformed into a contemporary, light-filled co-working space fit for 21st century use.The original building frontage was set back from the road, but the addition of a new five-story front extension introduces an attractive double-height entrance with offices above. Using similar engineering bricks to the main, original building, the new construction allows light to flood in through the use of structurally self-supporting perforated brick lattice, angled at 45 degrees to gain stiffness. A cross-laminated timber structure sits behind while openable windows allow fresh air to circulate.At roof level, a new, cross-laminated timber structure, clad in a perforated zig-zag aluminium screen, echoes the front extension while softening the building edge.The brick selected for the project was a Blue Brindle Smooth – a high quality smooth brick that closely matched the masonry of the original building. The complexity of the lattice work structure required special shapes of brick and perforation to allow visibility through the bricks at the right points. Working closely with the architect, it took the team nine months of developing and testing to get the strength of the product right. Three lengths of brick were produced and used in the construction of the extension: 215s were used in the building of the chevron parapet, 345s were used on the parapet and alongside the entrance, and 440s were used to create the latticework on the main entrance.We are proud to announce that York House was highly commended at the 2019 Brick Awards in the Innovation category and is a great example of a collaborative approach with our customers.

Architect/Designer: PRPLocation: ManchesterProject Overview: 30 Brown Street is a four-storey brick office building originally built in 1985. The brief was to retain and refurbish the building to provide circa 50,000sqft of adaptable contemporary workspace. ServiceFull hardware scheduling & bespoke finishProject DetailsThis exciting design in the heart of Manchester steers away from using traditional finishes such as stainless steel or brass and instead incorporates a bold use of white RAL9010 PPC ironmongery. Architect David Sharpe explains why‘The building has a lot of exposed raw finishes, including concrete soffits and grey terrazzo flooring, partly inspiring the name, CORE (also referring to the location in the heart of Manchester's office core). Doors and main structural elements were painted a very dark grey to provide a clear contrast with the concrete structure. The inspiration behind the choice of white ironmongery was to provide a high quality counterpoint to the darker raw exposed concrete and painted finishes, and any small part metalwork - eg the lighting, brassware and glazed partition framing, were also specified to be white to match.The contemporary interior was a key ingredient for the brief and although we started with the concept of a mixture of grey and white ironmongery to work with the overall feel of the building during our close work with the architect this was pulled back to a predominantly white scheme with grey pull handles being used for fully glazed doors to create greater contrast and to fulfil the contemporary brief.The choice of specific ironmongery took into account the desire for a minimalist aesthetic, relating to the choices in lighting and brassware.’To find out more about this project visit www.prp-co.uk/project/30-brown-street.html

Fearnach House on The Black Isle in the Highlands of Scotland was designed by architect Iain Macbeath, and built by the firm’s sister company, Thermopassive.The house is a 190m² new house, built to the architect’s “Thermopassive” specification with larch timber and render walls and profiled metal roofing. It has PV solar panels with a “diverter” heating up water and charging an electric car. High levels of thermal capacity storage in an insulated concrete floor slab (so it stays warm and flattens out rapid temperature fluctuations) and very good air tightness.There are no cold bridges (which is more important than you would think) and also a heat recovery ventilation system for fresh air.This project uses FAKRO top hung and pivot window preSelect MAX and L-shaped combination windows.When asked, why Fakro roof windows were specified for the project, Ian McBeath told us, “We have been specifying and buying Fakro roof lights for many years. They are well-priced compared with competitive products and of excellent quality and design.The positioning of the handles at the bottom of the window is also a major factor. It makes it much easier to operate a window with the handles at the bottom rather than the top of the window, which is often out of reach of many shorter and disabled people. The windows are also very well insulated and airtight.”The windows have helped achieve an extremely energy-efficient home as well as flooding the upper floor rooms with an abundance of natural light. And the client loves the internal and external finishes.Based in the North of Scotland, Thermopassive Ltd is an architect-owned company which specialises in highly insulated buildings (better than passive house standard) constructed in Structural Insulated Panels (SIPS).

Twinfix is delighted to announce that its Multi-Link-Panel Non-Fragile Roofing System has been chosen for the replacement of Crestwood Community School’s old glazed roof. The new 1087 square meter roofing system and the gable end spanning 207 square metres, are now glazed with 25mm multi-wall polycarbonate, providing numerous benefits to the school and its students.The Multi-Link-Panel Non-Fragile Roofing System is a robust and durable solution, designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and high-traffic areas. The system’s non-fragile design is engineered to be shatterproof and resistant to damage, ensuring the safety of those below in the event of an impact.The new roofing system at Crestwood Community School provides excellent thermal insulation, creating a more comfortable learning environment for students and teachers. The polycarbonate glazing also allows for natural light to filter through, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day and further reducing energy costs.“We are delighted that our Multi-Link-Panel Non-Fragile Roofing System has been chosen for Crestwood Community School’s roof replacement,” said Vicky Evans, Director at Twinfix. “The system’s non-fragile design and excellent thermal insulation make it an ideal solution for schools. We are proud to have provided Crestwood Community School with a high-quality roofing system that will enhance the safety and comfort of its students and staff.”Twinfix is committed to providing high-quality, innovative roofing solutions that meet the needs of its customers. The Multi-Link-Panel Non-Fragile Roofing System is just one of the many products in Twinfix’s range of roofing solutions designed to enhance safety, comfort, and energy efficiency in commercial and public buildings.

Architect: BDP GlasgowInstaller: Linear ProjectsProduct: Shiluvit by Oranit375m2 of Shiluvit panels in 7-501A format and in PEFC Certified Yellow Pine with an Oak effect stain were installed to the ceilings of the mezzanine corridors in the central atrium at Marr College in Troon.Shiluvit panels were chosen in part for their ability to easily incorporate lighting and ventilation into the ceiling whilst also giving ease of access with the tip-and-tilt demountable design.The ceilings were installed to the new £37m wing which was added to the 1935 building, the new wing includes 8 state-of-the-art laboratory spaces and full professional kitchen suites as well as a library, refectory, and break-out social spaces.

Covering an area of nearly two acres (7,600 m2), the Holt Farm dairy complex includes two large and three smaller cattle buildings used for milking, housing, feed storage, offices, and viewing gallery. The complex typically houses 240 dairy cattle, yielding an average of 7,500 litres per year that is supplied to a nearby dairy processing facility. Holt Farm’s dairy complex is L-shaped with five interconnecting ridge-roofed buildings that create four internal valley gutters. The original fibre cement roof with badly yellowing old-style roof lights had deteriorated and suffered storm damage; the owners decided that a cost-effective new roof was required.

Lionweld Kennedy supplied and installed both open mesh flooring and GRP light out removeable handrails to 4 twin level access gantries at the 'Doncaster Carr IEP Depot' for Hitachi Rail Group.We supplied and fixed demarcation fencing with integral gates to form the stores area within the facility.Also, we supplied and fixed internal depot protection to fork lift routes, including column protection, bollards and spring steel barrier systems.Using both steel open mesh flooring and GRP handrails was a great cost solution for the client, as we were able to utalise our products to create a safe working environment which is fully compliant with British and European standards.

This office building forms part of the More London complex of offices, retail units and restaurants close to London Bridge. The sleek new washrooms we delivered were designed with a minimal colour palette of natural oak and black. Our popular full height Alto toilet cubicles were finished with a natural oak real wood veneer and completed with matt black ironmongery including the striking vertical flat iron bar pull handles. Our Arpeggio solid surface Corian vanities were manufactured in a light grey shade to provide contrast to the black recessed sinks and tiled splashback while the underpanels were finished using the same natural oak veneer as the toilet cubicles

Ninety One, previously Investec Asset Management, recently relocated to impressive new offices in London’s business district. Creating agile working space, Style collaborated with HLW architects and main contractor Overbury, to install three Dorma Hüppe Variflex moveable wall systems, giving freedom to create two individual meeting rooms, or one large open area. Maximising light flooding into this beautifully designed office, one operable wall is glass, whilst the others are finished respectively in a stunning Kvadrat Maharam Merit fabric and Fluted Timber veneer, matching surrounding joinery. Ensuring meetings can run concurrently, the walls provide impressive 59dB acoustic integrity.

Forming part of one of the largest and most ambitious regeneration projects in Europe, Mustard Wharf is a new residential Build to Rent development overlooking the Leeds-Liverpool Canal.The £55 Million scheme features 3 buildings housing 247 stunning 1, 2 and 3-bedroom boutique rental apartments plus communal roof terraces, gym, working spaces, and clubhouses.An impressive central atrium was created using Senior’s thermally enhanced SF52 curtain walling with secure access via SPW501 doors. The apartments feature floor to ceiling energy efficient PURe® windows whilst PURe® SLIDE doors lead to the balcony providing a light and comfortable environment. 

A 250 year old granary has gone through a transformation and is now a thriving hub bringing the local community together. During recent fabric upgrades to the building, energy efficiency needed to be addressed to help reduce on-going running costs of this village hall. 6 lancet windows were treated with Selectaglaze 4-12-4mm, low-E, enhanced thermal performance sealed unit secondary glazing, achieving U-values of around 1.67. The tall lancet windows posed a challenge due to their height; 3350mm. Each of these openings were built up with a Series 41 side hung casement set between two Series 40 fixed light units.

We delve into Anna's inspiring rooflight replacement journey in her Hertfordshire home with a Vario by VELUX custom-made roof window. This stunning addition has wholly transformed her living space.At Vario by VELUX, we understand the importance of custom-made solutions to suit your unique needs, and our bespoke flat roof windows are designed to do just that. Anna's story is a testament to how our Vario by VELUX Rooflights can create a space filled with daylight, enhancing ambience and interior design.Custom Made Roof Window CollaborationAnna, who hails from South Africa and relocated to the UK almost 40 years ago, recognises the importance of natural light and how it can significantly impact your well-being. Having lived in her Hertfordshire home for many years, she knew it was time to replace her existing lantern rooflight due to a leak and a desire for a more modern design.When she reached out to her architect for guidance, he recommended Vario by VELUX, a decision that proved to be a game-changer for her home. Our team worked closely with Anna, making the bespoke flat roof window fit around the structural beam and seamlessly integrated with her living space. The result was nothing short of beautiful, highlighting the exceptional craftsmanship, professionalism and flexibility Vario by VELUX is known for.What improvements have you seen between the old rooflight and the new one?“The design of the extension is better now than when we had the previous rooflight. The lantern that stood up always bothered my eye and now this flat roof is unobtrusive. When I look out of my windows upstairs I don't see anything, I just see the garden, it’s just opened up another dimension.Another thing is the rain, the sound is different - it’s softer and I like the pool of water you can see lying on it - the different little patterns. It’s a wonderful sound and view so I really recommend it.”The Impact of Unlimited Daylight on Your HomeWith the Vario Unlimited Rooflight installed, Anna's living space now basks in abundant natural light. This daylight not only brightens up the room but also enhances the overall interior design. Even on cloudy days, the room remains well-illuminated, reducing the need for artificial lighting. The difference is undeniable, and Anna couldn't be happier with the transformation, stating, “I had such a good experience, everything was done so professionally… the end product is beautiful.”Advantages of Flat Roof Windows Over Lantern Roof DesignsWhen considering the choice between a flat roof window, like Vario Roof lights, and a lantern roof design, it's essential to highlight the benefits that make the former stand out:Unobstructed Views: Unlike traditional lantern-style skylights, flat roof windows can offer a more discreet and clean design that blends seamlessly with the roof. This design allows unrestricted views of surroundings, creating a more open and expansive feeling within a space. Lanterns can provide a beautiful and artistic effect by breaking up the daylight with the lantern intersections.Balancing Cost and Style in Skylights: Choosing between flat glass rooflights and lantern skylights isn't just about style but also cost. Flat glass rooflights are a bit friendlier on your wallet and can even help lower your heating bills, thanks to their excellent insulation. But don't let that sway you if your heart is set on a lantern skylight! They might require more time and expertise to install, but the result could be well worth it. Ultimately, the choice is yours - both options bring daylight and elegance.Ventilation: Vario flat rooflights are designed to maximise airflow thanks to our upstand, contributing to a well-ventilated and fresh interior space. Lantern roof lights, on the other hand, excel in aesthetics, adding a distinct charm to any room. However, their ventilation efficiency may not be as high as that of flat roof windows. Both options present a blend of form and functionality to consider.Insulation Differences: Lantern skylights and flat roof windows both provide insulation but to varying degrees. Lanterns with multiple glazing pane joints tend to have poorer insulation, leading to more heat loss. Conversely, flat roof windows, with fewer connections, generally offer superior insulation.There are certainly pros and cons to both types of rooflight design. What matters most is that you are considering adding more daylight into your your designs!Experience the ‘Wow Factor’ With a Bespoke Roof WindowAnna's advice when considering a renovation is crystal clear: "I really don’t think you can do an extension without a rooflight." She believes it's essential for well-being and making your space more enjoyable. A rooflight adds the "wow factor" that can genuinely make your life better.Incorporating a Vario skylight into your project can be a game-changer, just as it was for Anna.

Rockfon was given the opportunity to demonstrate the breadth of its specialist ranges to meet the specific needs of a wide range of spaces while contributing to the BREEAM ‘Excellent’ environmental status of this stunning project.This new five storey medical school enables students to experience real life situations encountered by those in the medical profession. It includes lecture theatres, laboratories, a clinical skills suite with mock consultation rooms to simulate hospital wards or a GP surgery, a pro-section anatomy suite and bio-medical and health sciences library. Professor Mary Stuart was University of Lincoln Vice Chancellor at the time, “It represents more than just a building – it is a commitment to current and future communities in Lincolnshire to develop sustainable healthcare for the region.” HLM were the client architects, ‘The scheme has been modelled to create the optimal sustainable environment through informed decisions on site layout, massing, orientation, building fabric, elevational treatment and Integrated renewable energy systems. To further enhance student mental health and wellbeing, the scheme uses biophilic design principles including natural lighting and ventilation, visual links to natural landscape features and natural materials.’Meeting and exceeding client aspirationsShradha Mishra was Project Manager for the Estates Department at University of Lincoln. At its completion she said, “The Lincoln Medical School… has had a strong focus on sustainability throughout the design and construction process. With this in mind, the strategy for the building required exposed ceilings and therefore it was important to review and manage the acoustic requirements of the spaces to ensure a suitable working and teaching environment. Following extensive design and consultation with acoustic engineers, Rockfon were recommended for installation across the project which included a variety of both suspended ceiling grid tiles and acoustic baffles in open plan areas to support the absorption of sound.”BAM were main contractors for the project with BAM Design leading architectural design. Brebur Limited were responsible for the installation of ceiling and wall systems at Lincoln. Operations Director Vinny Lilley had this to say, “We have an excellent relationship with Rockfon. Their wide range of specialist products always ensures the architectural vision is achieved. They are always on-hand to offer technical advice and commercial acumen, with around 2,500sqm of tile and grid components being supplied by regional distributors.Acoustics reducing stress and enhancing healthAcoustic Rockfon Eclipse® islands are utilised within open plan areas where they are suspended on wires from the soffit, giving the illusion that they float. They can be specified in a variety of shapes with unlimited custom colour matching. Eclipse islands are perfect for thermal mass installations and where a traditional suspended ceiling cannot be installed. At Lincoln they are also present as wall panels to further control sound.Improved acoustics can increase focus by 48% and reduce stress levels by 27%, which aids learning and wellbeing (independent research). The high light reflectance characteristics of Rockfon ceiling and wall systems also help reduce the need for artificial light, saving energy and enhancing health.Elsewhere within the school, Rockfon Blanka® is installed. Available in a wide range of sound control and durability performance characteristics, its non-directional, anti-static surface prolongs product life. The range embodies Class A sound absorption (aw 1.00), 87% light reflection, >99% light diffusion and room to room sound Insulation >26dB. Rockfon’s Chris Carr-Elliman, “All Rockfon ranges are made from inert volcanic rock (stone wool) which offers no sustenance to microorganisms and demonstrates outstanding reaction to fire. Most are available in a full range of formats including concealed, semi-concealed and visible grid options from our extensive Chicago Metallic grid systems.” Specialist ranges for every spaceHTM 60 compliant Rockfon Medicare was the perfect fit at Lincoln where it offers outstanding performance in terms of infection control. Simple cleaning and low particle emission (ISO Class 4) also mark it out as a first choice for healthcare specification, along with its Class A sound absorption and highest fire safety (Class A1). Also within the building, the superior moisture resistant properties and wipe clean surface of Rockfon® Koral™ were important considerations for its use. Affordable, Rockfon® Artic™ was also put to good use in several areas at the school. In common with other Rockfon ranges, both Koral and Artic offer excellent sound absorption and fire safety characteristics.Shradha Mishra continued, “Since completion of the building, we have had positive feedback from building users about both the aesthetic appearance of the Rockfon products along with the acoustic performance of them.” 

DAYLIGHT FOR SHOWCASING STUDENT SUCCESSWe have always recognised that daylighting is both an art and a science, which makes it an appropriate focal point for Mahwah High School’s new STEAM Lab. The STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) approach to education takes an important step in recognising the importance of and integrating the arts into a science-and-technology-geared curriculum. The arts foster creativity and ingenuity that allows for the successful application of other skills.The 9,000-square-foot facility—designed by Tokarski Millemann Architects and fondly nicknamed the “Thunderbird Think Tank” in honour of Mahwah High School’s logo—houses classrooms, indoor and outdoor labs and a gallery to showcase student projects.Tokarski Millemann was looking for the perfect material to use for the art gallery component of the facility. According to principal architect, Michael Millemann, “The vision was to create a ‘cube’ shaped space for the display of the students’ creative works which were previously tucked in a hallway. The material needed to create a beautiful glow from the exterior along with permitting only serene, diffused light to the interior.”Kalwall’s museum-quality daylighting™ delivers full-spectrum, diffuse natural light to allow for high visual acuity and accurate colour rendition within the gallery space. This creates a comfortable, welcoming environment for viewing artwork and other projects or hosting gatherings.A custom blue face sheet was developed to match the school’s logo. The blue is not a coating, but rather full-colour thickness through the entire exterior face, utilising Kalwall’s super-weathering technology. Due to the panel’s power of diffusion, the blue exterior does not affect the quality of light within the space, but it allows for a beautiful, soft glow at night that acts as a marquis for the school. During the day, Kalwall’s best-in-industry solar heat gain control prevents the cube from becoming a hot box and superior thermal performance ensures a comfortable environment all year long while lowering HVAC loads. Combined with daylighting’s ability to reduce reliance on electricity, Kalwall plays a major role in the project’s overall energy efficiency.Cost efficiency is another benefit Kalwall provided. Panels are low maintenance with a self-cleaning surface, meaning normal rainfall helps to keep the exterior free of sediment while at the same time retaining its original colour during the weathering process. The lightweight panel system minimised the need for additional internal structure for a very clean design, while rapid installation kept the project on schedule and on budget.“The Kalwall translucent panels exceeded our vision,” said Millemann. “We worked with Kalwall’s Steve Del Guercio and their team to develop a daylighting and structural strategy, and the custom panel colour. The Kalwall cube anchors the addition to the existing building and is a visual beacon located on axis with the entrance to the campus. Along with the client, we could not be happier with the final product.”The Mahwah High School STEAM lab will be an environment in which students can thrive for generations to come.Photos: Courtesy of Tokarski Millemann Architects

Benenden Hospital is a state-of-the-art private hospital in Cranbrook, Kent specialising in a wide range of discretionary healthcare and well-being services to individual and business healthcare members.• The original hospital opened in 1907 by National Association for the Establishment and Maintenance of Sanatoria - to treat postal workers suffering from tuberculosis. By 1951 the Association had disbandedand the Benenden Healthcare Society took over the sanatorium, dramatically expanding the services available.• Architects C A Vaughan Blundell were appointed to design a new atrium and welcoming area to enhance the patient and visitor experience.• The £55m project attained a Breeam status of ‘Good’.The SchemeThe scheme, designed by architects C A Vaughan Blundell with assistance from SR Architects Ltd, has created a wonderfully light and airy entrance atrium designed to welcome and create an enhanced patient and visitor experience with maximised natural daylight. The extensive breakout and catering facilities support theatres, en-suite rooms, outpatient department and ophthalmic suite along with diagnostic imaging, rest and recovery areas. The main contractor was Willmott Dixon Construction.The AdvantagesThe skylights have a unique ability to bathe interior spaces with diffused and glare-free daylight, which creates a stimulating and healthy environment. In addition, their heavily insulated composition eliminates glare and hotspots, thereby reducing the load on temperature control systems and the need for artificial lighting.They provide additional light in the large atrium projecting it deep into the interior. They were specified complete with highly insulating Nanogel which achieves an impress U value of 0.28W/m2K, helping the project attain a Breeam status of ‘Good’. This is particularly impressive given the amount of curtain walling and clerestory glazing involved in the scheme.Kalwall skylights can be manufactured to large spans up to six metres. The aluminium or thermally-broken grid core with interlocking I-beams gives Kalwall incredible strength. The lightweight system reduces the need for supporting structures while offering the highest protection in terms of wind-borne debris and resistance to impact, abrasion and point loads. The exterior face is colour stable and includes a UV resistant, self-cleaning surface. This means that normal  rainfall helps to keep the surface free of dust and dirt while at the same time retaining its original colour during the weathering process. Furthermore, the inclusion of an erosion-prevention barrier protects the interior from weather exposure and the risk of fibre-bloom, cracking and crazing.The CommentsGeoff Holden, Senior Technician at C A Vaughan Blundell comments, “The use of Kalwall represented the best value balance of energy saving and cost and provided us with the ideal way to achieve spatial daylighting within the requirements of Part L”Jane Abbott, Hospital Director, “We want to ensure our patients have an excellent, efficient and streamlined experience from the moment they arrive until the time they leave.”

When the Trade Council of Denmark exhibited a real world Danish Living Room at London Design Fair. The stand featured a curated mix of Danish brands to highlight Denmark’s strong heritage within quality design. Facilitated by the Embassy of Denmark in London and sponsored by Junckers, whose Hexparket flooring formed the backdrop to a host of iconic and promising contemporary Danish brands. Made in solid wood, the hexagonal design showcases Junckers’ long-standing tradition for quality and craftsmanship with a contemporary take on the classic parquet floor. The joint stand presented furniture, lighting, homeware, kitchen, TV and sound. Other brands included Fritz Hansen, Overgaard & Dyrman, Spekva, LOP Furniture, Arttiles, Møbel & Rum and Made by Toft. 

Kroll (previously Duff & Phelps) operate within the risk and financial advisory sector, with UK offices based in Manchester’s Northern Quarter for which we had the pleasure of providing a Type G200 folding partition system during a recent refurbishment. The operable wall allows the space to be transformed from a large open plan area into two separate rooms as and when required.The Type G200 system offers impressive acoustic, achieving up to Rw 47dB when fully closed – minimising noise transfer between the two spaces, without compromising on light transfer. In this instance, a fully glazed, full height pass door allows for easy access between the two smaller rooms when the system is in use.

One of the largest self-supporting display greenhouses in the world Following the renovation of the Grand Pavilion (das Große Tropenhaus, first built in 1906) at Berlin’s Botanical Garden, daylight enters through hundreds of small, heat-insulating yet highly light-permeable glass panes onto one of the world’s most significant collections of rare and endangered tropical plants. The inner panels used in the double-glazing for the overhead sections of the pavilion are made of laminated safety glass using stiff and strong SentryGlas® ionoplast interlayers. For the first time in Germany – following its “special approval” – a special “UV-transmissible” grade of SentryGlas® is used for this application, thereby sustaining the active growth of the plants and safeguarding their preservation

The refurbishment of independent opticians and hearing specialists, Leightons, has used Forbo Flooring Systems’ Allura luxury vinyl tile planks alongside a host of other products to create a spacious looking interior that helps to minimise the spread of unwanted noise to the consultation rooms. Subsequently, the design won a Commended award in the Fly Forbo 2016/2017 competition.Leightons called on SKK Design for the design of their Reading store when it relocated from Oxford Road to the town centre, tasking them to give the branch a new lease of life and adapt the space into something that customers and staff would appreciate. The complete refurbishment saw new ceilings, lights, furniture and flooring throughout the main shop floor, staff areas and consultation rooms.

Project: Manufacture and installation of 10 bespoke concrete pendant light fittings for newly refurbished London gym and changing rooms. Materials used: Hand-cast concrete sphere shaped lamp shades with hand applied metallic internal finish and stainless steel fittings. We were asked to manufacture 10 bespoke extra large sphere-shaped concrete pendant lamps with hand applied metallic internal finish and stainless steel fittings. Product Spec: Size: diameter 47cm, shade height 28cm, maximum suspension height 120cm Weight 6.25kg Finish/ Colour: Rough finish – GREY Cable / cord : Herringbone brown linen Ceiling rose : Concrete GREY Colour temperature: 3000k LED WARM WHITE

Kroll (previously Duff & Phelps) operate within the risk and financial advisory sector, with UK offices based in Manchester’s Northern Quarter for which we had the pleasure of providing a Type G200 folding partition system during a recent refurbishment. The operable wall allows the space to be transformed from a large open plan area into two separate rooms as and when required.The Type G200 system offers impressive acoustic, achieving up to Rw 47dB when fully closed – minimising noise transfer between the two spaces, without compromising on light transfer. In this instance, a fully glazed, full height pass door allows for easy access between the two smaller rooms when the system is in use.