"lights"

Exchange Square, designed by DSDHA, is a refurbishment of a major 1.5-acre public park above the tracks of Liverpool Street Station in London. Our terrazzo was supplied throughout, including water features, amphitheatre steps, paving and planter edges with complex 3D pieces. The challenge for In Opera was to provide over 3000 pieces, 90% of which were unique and many having to fit into each other perfectly. The 1.5-acre park will see a four-fold increase in the amount of planting and dramatically enhance biodiversity, with 25% of the area featuring green space that is accessible to all.Quadrupling the amount of green space at Broadgate, the aim is to boost the emotional and physical well-being of those that work at Broadgate and the local community while supporting British Land’s commitment to sustainability and biodiversity.We are proud to have been involved in such a major development, which aims to draw people together and help the communities thrive in a better environment. What was once a dark uninviting space has been transformed into a light and welcoming place where people can truly live, where communities and businesses can thrive, and that helps the planet to flourish. It is a more attractive, less corporate environment for Broadgate, which creates places to dwell, not just pass through.

Bombardier Services UK based in Biggin Hill is business related to aircraft services such as manufacturing business jets, services and repairs, and general aircraft expertise. The modern office and manufacturing space aligns with the high-quality business jets that they design and produce.Our team at Helmsman, we have manufactured and installed 40 two-compartment heavy-duty laminate lockers with the measurements to be 1900mm high, 300mm wide, and 450mm deep with the lockers to have sloped top-end panels to match the lockers that were manufactured and installed by Helmsman in 2022.The laminate lockers were powder coated with Greenlam Primeval oak to match the light aesthetics of the room as well as to blend with the other lockers with the body of the locker to be ‘Ice’ which is a shade of grey. The laminate lockers were decorated with oval laminated number plates above the Camlocks made by Lowe & Fletcher. The locks are easy to use, with each staff member being allocated to their own lockers which would make the staff feel secure that their items are protected.It was great to work with Bombardier Services UK again on the project. If you have a similar project or want to know more about laminate lockers, give us a call at 01284 530 427.

Harbour Light Assisted Living CIC housing association approached Hush Acoustics to upgrade the floor within one of its flats to offer a higher level of soundproofing in line with the specific requirements of one of its tenants.The housing association, which specialises in providing bespoke accommodation and services to assist people with disabilities to fulfil their responsibilities as tenants and help them live an independent life, sought to improve the acoustic performance of a separating floor in the flat for a new resident. The individual suffered from an Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC), also referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), which meant any flooring solution had to be appropriate for their needs, not only to reduce both impact and airborne ‘noise nuisance’ encroaching to the flat below, but also to ensure the final floor finish could be fully bonded to the acoustic substrate. The potential noise issues were regarded as higher than typical domestic noise which meant a more robust specification was required.The solution was provided by Hush Mat 15 with Hush Ply 28 overlaid. This provided the required mass, flexibility and isolation, as well as a robust surface to allow the floor covering to be directly bonded, ensuring it could not be lifted.

Covering 460,000 square meters, the equivalent of around 70 soccer fields, Starfield in scenic Hanam, just east of Seoul, is one of the largest shopping malls in South Korea. Stepping inside the mall, shoppers are greeted with copious amounts of natural light coming in through the two glass roofs standing at 35 meters above the ground, built to deliver a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. Our coatings are making sure that Starfield Hanam’s stunning roofs are looking great for the millions of shoppers that the giant mall is catering for.The owner specified a fast-curing primer to increase productivity in the workshop, followed by a high build polyurethane topcoat with a semi-gloss white surface.Intercure 200 was chosen to provide superior long term corrosion protection to the roofs’ steel. The zinc epoxy primer provides rapid cure even under low temperature conditions and is suitable for over-coating within 3 hours in most climatic conditions, speeding up production and throughput in fabrication shops.Semi-gloss and available in a wide range of colors, our Interthane 870 finish coat was used to deliver excellent cosmetics and extended recoatability, assisting in project flexibility.This two coat system boasts a very long global track record.

Based in Somerset, Taunton School was founded all the way back in 1847. While the building’s stunning exterior has been immaculately preserved in the years since, the interior has of course been routinely upgraded during that time in order to support the ever-evolving demands of educational environments – including the recent installation of our Type G100 movable wall system.Type G100 is a glazed partition system that provides effective protection again sound transfer when fully closed, achieving up to Rw 54dB. This particular system is comprised of 10 panels, with half being glass and the other half sporting a solid matte black finish – all housed within a sleek black painted aluminium frame.Thanks to the Type G100, the school’s cafeteria layout can changed within minutes, offering the choice between a large open plan space, or a pair of smaller rooms. A fully solid system would not allow for the transfer of natural light to the smaller of the two spaces created when the system is in use, however the glazed panels mean this is not an issue. A pass door also allows for access between the smaller spaces when the panels are being used.

Based in Somerset, Taunton School was founded all the way back in 1847. While the building’s stunning exterior has been immaculately preserved in the years since, the interior has of course been routinely upgraded during that time in order to support the ever-evolving demands of educational environments – including the recent installation of our Type G100 movable wall system.Type G100 is a glazed partition system that provides effective protection again sound transfer when fully closed, achieving up to Rw 54dB. This particular system is comprised of 10 panels, with half being glass and the other half sporting a solid matte black finish – all housed within a sleek black painted aluminium frame.Thanks to the Type G100, the school’s cafeteria layout can changed within minutes, offering the choice between a large open plan space, or a pair of smaller rooms. A fully solid system would not allow for the transfer of natural light to the smaller of the two spaces created when the system is in use, however the glazed panels mean this is not an issue. A pass door also allows for access between the smaller spaces when the panels are being used.

Located in Surrey, this detached Victorian property needed its top floor timber windows replaced due to rotting. Maintaining the windows was proving costly for the homeowners but they needed a solution that would still look authentic next to their ground floor timber sash windows. After researching their options, the homeowners came across Roseview’s traditional timber alternative sash windows. The possibility of maintenance-free sash windows that are indistinguishable from the original box sashes, but while providing modern thermal efficiency and enhanced security, made Ultimate Rose the obvious choice. Using modern technology, Ultimate Rose is completely seamless with traditional joinery style mechanical joints and the slimmest 35mm mid rail on the market. When installed adjacent to the homeowner’s original windows it was almost impossible to see a difference. The home was finished with a single vertical astragal bar to match the home’s existing sightlines and allow for maximum natural light. Additionally, run through horns and a wood grain texture was added for a fully authentic finish. The result is truly indistinguishable, and the homeowners now have traditional and modern performing sash windows that will last for years to come. The owners are now planning to replace the timber windows on the ground floor with Ultimate Rose as well.

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.

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.

Providing 21 affordable homes in the first ‘carbon negative’ housing community of its kind in the UK. The initial concept began in 2009 with the aim of creating carbon negative housing. The project is ground breaking with a plan to lock away as much carbon as possible whilst generating excess energy from systems installed.Lewis Deck light weight steel/ screed composite floor system providing acoustic floors improving Building Regulations Part E standards by at least 8dB was installed in the apartments.This project achieved a Zero Carbon certification under the Code for Sustainable Homes and achieved Passiv Haus standards, but was not certified under this system. The performance was monitored by the Technology Strategy Board (TSB) as well as how the social tenants found the experience of living there given the lifestyle adjustments that were needed.The Lewis Deck was used as it achieved the enhanced acoustic and fire performance required in this project, especially given that this was a timber frame development. The elements of the building also had to achieve an A+ Green Guide to Specification rating from the BRE, this was achieved by using a liquid screed on top of the deck that contained a high recycled content.The project won a number of awards and was marketed as the UK's 1st "Carbon Negative" social housing scheme.

Armourcoat’s modular panel system ArmourFX has been specified to stunning effect at the new G-Shock store on London’s Carnaby Street by Double Retail. The new flagshop concept store was designed to physically interpret the core values of the brand and clearly segment G-Shock’s extensive product range.Through the careful use of lighting and materials, such as slate flooring, hot rolled steel surfaces and concrete wall panels from ArmourFX,the environment is an embodiment of G-Shock toughness.The store has elevated this premium offering and created a versatile future-proof space adaptable for specific collections and product launches.ArmourFX concrete effect panels are ideal for a deconstructed urban look for contemporary projects. The panels offer a wealth of design options to achieve a distinctive industrial style including distressed effects or recessed ‘shutter’ markings. Off-site construction is fast becoming the method of choice for both contractors and their clients with projects under tight deadlines for completion, or where it is impractical to work with ‘wet’ plastering trades on site. ArmourFX modular solutions can be highly customized to suit the client, sent directly to site and installed in a few hours. Photography: © Max McClure

In a small town just outside Stirling in Scotland is this beautiful, traditional property built from Scottish sandstone. The new owners have extended and completely refurbished the house, originally built in 1870. Although modernised and featuring some contemporary features the original charm has been kept.In order to maximize natural light, a total of 10 Clement Conservation Rooflights were installed. These not only look beautiful in the traditional Welsh slate roof but also improve thermal efficiency and are low maintenance.The homeowner said: “We are delighted with our Clement Conservation Rooflights. We have now fitted ten into our period house renovation and they look great.“Quality wise they are solid and well built, no problems with manual winders, and the double glazing, sound proofing and heat retention is brilliant. We searched around and Clement seemed a good price for the quality. Dealing with them as a company has been a pleasure, always helpful with sound advice and never a delay in delivery dates.“We have been lucky enough to work with very talented and courteous craftsmen and suppliers - like Clement, who went the extra mile to make sure that we fully understood the options available and helped us create the perfect home.”

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

A GEC Anderson stainless steel counter and splashbacks were recently deployed in the new meeting room and ancillary facilities at St Mary’s Church, Wivenhoe. The historic Parish Church of Wivenhoe is thought to be built on Roman foundations and is the oldest remaining building in this small riverside town in Essex. Against this historic background, the new space, designed by Inkpen Downie Architecture, provides a light and airy addition that includes a small kitchen and servery. Stainless steel was specified for the curved counter and for the splashbacks within the kitchen itself. The specified units were supplied and installed by GEC Anderson, under the supervision of local contractor, Bakers of Danbury.“This was a nice project to have been fortunate enough to be involved with and, in my opinion, is a great example of how well new can sit with old. Functionality goes hand in hand with the high quality, smart but informal appearance. The sense of space created by the extension to the main building is impressive and surely a great asset to the Church and its community.” Martin Tye, Managing Director of GEC Anderson.GEC Anderson specialise in made to measure stainless steel worktops, sinks, cabinets and shelving that have been successfully specified in a wide variety of projects and locations. A full measuring and installation service is also provided.

Installation of our MG500 flush glazed sliding folding door system to create an L shaped flexible space over looking London. Panel Profiles powder coated white to match the interior design for the client, with the panel profiles being able to be powder coated to any RAL finish this system is a great option to blend in to any office design. Particularly desirable for office spaces, our MG500 hinged sliding folding glazed wall partitions and glass movable walls offer multiple benefits to your workspace and for your employees. The benefit of the MG500 is that we require no structural support within the ceiling meaning this product can be installed anywhere. With the slim back painted border you have clear view visual lines allowing a superior light flow around the office, cost-effective installation, flexibility in the work environment as well as the simple fact that they look elegant and classy. Not only these, but they also offer exceptional sound reduction allowing for privacy to be had amongst clients or for important internal meetings. The hidden hinges allows us to create a smooth Wall, with no interferences. We worked to achieve a high aesthetic level and produce a architectural product for demanding spaces.

Built in 1986, Dukes Court was viewed as a symbol of Woking’s economic growth, offering 220,000 sq. ft. of premium office accommodation. These works will ensure Dukes Court continues to play an important role in the town’s future.The front of Dukes Court underwent an extensive remodelling, creating a landscaped pedestrianised public plaza and restaurant with outdoor seating. The building features an impressive full height living ‘green’ wall, which is one of the tallest in Europe. The building is arranged over five blocks which are accessed via three separate reception areas, leading to the flexible floor plates which all benefit from excellent natural light.Other features include:A larger than life statue of composer and suffragette Dame Ethel Smyth will proudly conduct passers-by in the centre of the pedestrianised plaza.New signage and pedestrian routes which will enhance the visitor experience.Relocation of main vehicle entrance from Dukes Street to Stanley RoadMaybury Road, Stanley Road and The Broadway junctions improvements.Granite from around the world (mainly the far east) included BBS Steel (mid grey) granite, Haze (silver grey) granite, Barzan (black) basalt, and Peppercorn (pink) granite.

The Carnegie Library & Galleries in Dunfermline designed by Richard Murphy Architects features over 700m2 of Junckers solid oak flooring. The original library building and an adjacent former bank, both grade B listed, have been extended and integrated to form a spectacular, award-winning space. A new museum, gallery space, café, shop and reading rooms are linked to the original library building by an ‘internal street’ connecting new and existing spaces. To provide a continuous backdrop as well as visually and aesthetically link the old and new parts, Junckers 15mm Wide Board Oak finished in Ultramatt lacquer was specified throughout the building. The attractive grain pattern of the timber adds a natural element to the interior, which is flooded with natural light. Junckers’ solid wood flooring offers a durable surface even for high traffic areas. Pre-finished in a choice of hard-wearing, long-lasting lacquers and oils from Junckers’ own professional range of finishing products, a Junckers floor is easy to install and maintain and it will last a lifetime with the right care. Particularly popular with architects and designers, Junckers’ long-length plank flooring really comes into its own in a large open space. The flooring contractor was GL Floors. 

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.

The office “G+P Muller architectes” designed a total of 94 rooms, including classrooms, laboratories, workshops and studios. The Lycée also has its own swimming pool, sports halls and a canteen kitchen with an attached cafeteria. The straight-lined architecture, which uses daylight in a variety of ways and cleverly leads into the building, is captivated by a fresh color concept that takes on an aesthetic and structuring function throughout the building.In order to harmoniously adapt the swimming pool, sanitary areas and canteen kitchen to the color concept, the architects chose two tile series from Villeroy&Boch: PRO ARCHITECTURA and UNIT ONE. In addition to the necessary technical properties for public kitchens and wet areas, the PRO ARCHITECTURA series in particular offers a professional color and format system.For the sanitary area, the architects chose orange, which also appears in the school’s logo, as well as red and white, using several of the system’s modular formats. The swimming pool area is designed around the pool with specially anti-slip tiles from the PRO ARCHITECTURA series. In the surrounding areas, the swimming pool is divided into the colors light and dark gray, which harmonize very well with the concrete elements and the wooden ceiling.

THE PROJECTOswestry Golf Club is an award winning golf club situated on the picturesque North Shropshire/North Wales border. Home to a James Braid designed golf course, state of the art clubhouse, and two former Ryder Cup heroes.They have recently increased security for their dedicated Greenkeepers compound. Heightened security included newly installed perimeter fencing, lighting and an insulated T77 double skinned aluminium roller shutter, with electric motor and safety brake.THE CHALLENGEThe client was looking for increased security for their main shed, with the added need for insulation to improve working conditions for ongoing maintenance work through the winter months.THE SOLUTIONThe T77 is a versatile aluminium roller shutter which is suitable for a wide range of domestic, commercial and retail applications. Its 77mm insulated slat rolls into a box as small as 250mm, and a maximum area of 16m² makes this shutter suitable for windows, doors and many other openings. ‘The aim was to give us increased peace of mind for our newest equipment and also a more usable space for the team throughout the year. The install was carried out in a timely and professional manner, and I am delighted with the finished project.’ Gary Barnfield – Head Greenkeeper

The Links ELC – CoventryCoventry ELC is a Pupil Referral Unit for Key Stage 3 & 4 pupils who have struggled to access mainstream school education due to Social, Emotional & Mental Health (SEMH) issues.They have recently increased security around the whole facility. Heightened door and window security was delivered thanks to our E37 electric shutters.THE CHALLENGEThe client was looking for increased security for their facility, to cover windows and doors.We worked with their contractor the Darwin Group to work out the best solution and completed the installation of 31 E37 shutters of varying sizes to the external doors and windows.THE SOLUTIONThe E37 is made from an strong extruded double skinned aluminium slat which can be powder coated any RAL colour. With a narrow 37mm slat it is capable of rolling tightly with a 2m high shutter capable of rolling into a 180mm box. It is widely used for domestic and light commercial applications for securing windows and doors up to 4m wide. It is very popular with schools, offices and modular building companies.The E37 comes with numerous control options including manual, key switch or remote control, including group control options.

THE PROJECTCapstan House and the public realm at Republic, East India Dock underwent a major refurbishment to transform the 1990’s post-modern office complex. As part of the project they required retractable awnings which mounted to the ground level facade. This was designed to open up the outdoor terraces for offices, retail units, bars and cafes.THE CHALLENGEThe client was looking for high quality awnings to provide shade for the ground floor reception areas while still allowing natural light in. The design of the awnings needed to match the modern appearance of the offices and encourage socialising through the use of pedestrianised outdoor space.THE SOLUTIONOriginally the Markilux 3300 full cassette awnings was chosen due to it’s angular design. There was however a requirement for a larger projection than width on certain awnings which wasn’t achievable on this awning type. Roché instead advised on using the Markilux 1600 Stretch and Markilux 1600 semi-cassette awnings which would achieve these dimensions and keep a consistent ground floor appearance. This meant that some reception areas were able to achieve projections of up to 400cm from awnings of only 250cm in width.Custom spreader brackets were also required for fixing to a beam through an aluminium curtain.

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

Tower Supplies is an industry leader in PPE and workwear.They desperately needed to bring their office up to date to be in line with their operation.There was a need to have a functional office whilst maintaining a hardworking culture. Tower spent time and money with three other office design specialists, on all accounts the designs and solutions blew their budget putting the project out of reach.How we helpedThrough workshops and consultancy we were able to provide a 3 phase project that would provide Tower with the facility they required whilst still operating.We are able to provide a large multi-purpose workspace with kitchen, lunch area, directors offices, presentation area with moving partition, washrooms, shower rooms, reception and meeting spaces.By value engineering the project we were able to provide, within budget, an office with a modern and professional design that reflected the companies industrial roots. We ProvidedOffice DesignSpace Planning / 3D VisualsElectrics and LightingFlooringMoving PartitionsGlass PartitionsCeilingsBespoke JoineryWashroomsFitted FurnitureAudio VisualReception AreasKitchen & Breakout SpaceAgile WorkspaceDecorationAcoustic BafflesAir-ConditioningBlinds

The car dealer Kronsbjerg in Odense, Denmark, is a family owned company. Kronsbjerg was established in 1922 and is now run by the fourth generation with three branches on the Danish island Funen. Over the years, they have sold and serviced several, different car brands. In December 2015, Autohuset Kronsbjerg started selling and servicing yet another car brand in their department in Odense. Taking on this new car brand meant that existing facilities became too small. Therefore, Kronsbjerg decided to invest in a new, beautiful building of approx. 1500 m2 , which could accommodate both management facilities and exhibition areas for the existing and new cars. The new premises are built in split levels between the two exhibition areas that have a level difference of approx. 50 cm. Therefore, it was necessary to create accessibility for people with walking difficulties and wheelchair users – as well as to meet the Danish regulatory requirements for accessibility in new buildings.To negotiate the height differences Kronsbjerg chose the LP7 platform lift from Stepless by Guldmann both because of its elegant and light design but also because of the plug and play construction that has a very low entry level of only 50 mm. This allows for a short ramp and no need for placing the platform in a pit.  

The Leicester FC state-of-the-art £100m elite sports training facility occupies a 185-acre site in Seagrave, Leicestershire. Designed by KSS Architects, a world-leading specialist in the design of major sports venues and training centres, the project was a core aspiration of the club’s Chairman Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha who tragically died in 2018.The training centre is regarded as one of the most advanced in Europe in terms of its quality, scale and sustainability ambitions. KSS specified Rockfon® Mono® Acoustic – a seamless acoustic ceiling – for key areas throughout the site. Son of Khun Vichai and current Leicester City Chairman, Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, “A new training ground has been a dream many years in the making, so it is with great pride that we have been able to deliver this. Seagrave will be a pivotal part of the club’s operation for generations to come.”Rockfon Mono Acoustic – the perfect matchAround 430m2 of Rockfon Mono Acoustic ceilings are installed to ensure optimum sound control while delivering a seamless, smooth, aesthetic. Among others, these spaces include the hydrotherapy pool area, the 1st Team changing room and the Owners Suite.KSS Associate Director Lorenzo Pierini, commented, “Rockfon Mono Acoustic was the clear choice for use throughout these spaces as it gave us the contemporary, minimalist look we wanted, while meeting the demanding acoustic control required.”The ultimate alternative There are several acoustic ceiling options available but for the ultimate in looks and sound control, an acoustic render provides the perfect solution. With Rockfon Mono Acoustic, the ceiling tile substrate is installed and then finished with a specialist acoustic render to create a seamless surface. Mono can be used for ceilings, walls, or to create bespoke islands. Its versatility means it can be used to form curves, easily transitioned into plasterboard or integrated into existing mouldings. Outstanding performance Mono achieves Class A sound absorption and Class A2 fire protection whilst delivering 87% light reflection and greater than 99% light diffusion. Thanks to its core of naturally occurring, non-hygroscopic stone wool, it provides no sustenance to harmful micro-organisms, embodies high humidity resistance and is impervious to most environmental pressures. It is Bronze level Cradle to Cradle Certified® and can also contribute valuably to LEED, BREAM and WELL Building Standards.Installation courtesy of Pacy & Wheatley. Pacy & Wheatley Director Craig Wheatley, “The scale and ambition of this project is truly epic. As with the majority of modern developments, large windows, stone, structural steel and other resonant architectural elements can generate unwanted sound. That’s where Mono Acoustic really scores as it does not necessitate a compromise between style and sound control – a win win – if you will. Its flexibility meant we could seamlessly integrate linear and spot lighting at Leicester and neatly incorporate hatches for easy access to the services above. In the pool area the system also enabled us to elegantly transition into plasterboard perimeter upstand abutments.”The wider masterplan The training ground masterplan includes the Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha Building, which houses the primary training, medical and administrative hub. There are twelve full-size pitches, a show pitch with a 499-seat stand to allow academy teams to play in a match environment, The King Power Centre – the site’s central point, housing a full size indoor pitch and media centre that moulds into the landscape, an integrated training centre for first-team and academy squads including fitness and hydrotherapy suites, tactics, media, dining facilities and a nine-hole recreational golf course. McLaren were appointed Main Contractor at Seagrave and were responsible for leading the project. Senior Project Manager at the firm, Simon Ruddick, “The unrelenting progress of this project from day one was a testament to our continued ethos of partnering with key customers, and working to overcome delivery challenges... We have overcome some of the most challenging weather in recorded history too, and of course restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic.”McLaren Managing Director, South, Jay Newman, “It has been an honour to partner with Leicester City to deliver their new training facility, set to shape the players of today and tomorrow. Building on our considerable experience in sports and leisure, Seagrave has become one of the most modern training facilities in Europe. 

Client: MoogLocation: Tewkesbury, UKYear: 2023Project size: 10000 m²Vebro systems: vebrores EP SL, vebrores EP HBCA package of durable, industrial-grade epoxy coating systems were required for a military and commercial aircraft parts manufacturer in Tewkesbury, England.Moog, founded in the 1950s is a prominent global leader in advanced motion control technology and operates a state-of-the-art facility located in the picturesque town of Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, England.Moog’s facility in Tewkesbury stands as a beacon of innovation and precision engineering. It is a hub of cutting-edge research, development and manufacturing, where intricate machinery and sophisticated technologies come together to shape the future of motion control solutions.The facility required a flooring solution for its temperature-controlled main production area and walkways that are used to show visitors around the site as well as for the more back-of-house areas, such as loading bays, walkways, pump rooms, training areas and workshop spaces.  Moog’s commitment to operational excellence necessitated a flooring system that would facilitate easy maintenance while ensuring a safe and productive work environment.4,000 m2 of vebrores EP SL and 6,000 m2 of vebrores EP HBC were chosen in a combination of RAL 9018 Papyrus White and RAL 5012 Light Blue to reflect the colours often associated with aviation as well as create a welcoming and safely navigable environment.vebrores EP SL, a FeRFA Type 5, self-smoothing epoxy coating system typically installed at between 2.0 and 4.0 mm, is able to meet the demanding requirements of Moog’s industrial environment. Installed in the clean, temperature-controlled main production area and walkways that are used to show visitors around the Tewkesbury site, this solvent-free, easily applied coating system boasts exceptional durability and resistance.vebrores EP HBC, a high-build epoxy coating system that is best suited to coat floors in medium duty dry processing areas where a hard-wearing, chemical resistant floor finish is required, was chosen for the more back-of-house areas, such as loading bays, walkways, pump rooms, training areas and workshop spaces. The pigmented, solvent-free, easily-applied system is typically installed at 0.35 mm and delivers a high gloss, seamless finish that is light-reflective and easy to clean and maintain.The industrial flooring division of IRL Group are dedicated to delivering high standards of polymer floor coating system installation across the UK. IRL is a proud member of the Resin Flooring Association (FeRFA) and fully subscribes to their Code of Practice, meaning they operate to very high standards and have quality assurance and rigorous staff training schemes in place.IRL’s expertise and attention to detail enables the team to carry out their work to the highest possible standard with a minimum of upheaval for clients.Having built a reliable and passionate team, IRL Group demonstrates flexibility, technical knowledge, proactivity and a professional approach.

Project Overview:The iconic Hampton House, located in the heart of London, consists of three striking towers known as "The Corniche." Rising to heights of 85 meters and spanning 15 to 27 storeys, these towers house 253 apartments, office spaces, a restaurant, cafe, bar, gym, pool, and spa area. The towers offer breathtaking views of prominent landmarks such as Westminster Palace, Tate Britain, and the London Eye. The distinctive architectural design with arched structures allows for panoramic views and an abundance of natural light. Guttermaster Limited played a significant role in providing Concealed Rainwater Pipes, Soffits, and Bespoke Fabrications to adapt to the building's unique arched layout, offering custom solutions to meet the project's specific requirements.Project Details:Scope of Works:Concealed Rainwater PipesSoffitsBespoke FabricationsProject Challenges:The primary challenge of the project was to adapt all aluminum profiles to the arched layout of the building. Given the distinctive architectural design of The Corniche, a number of custom solutions had to be developed to ensure that Guttermaster's products were seamlessly integrated with the building's structure.Guttermaster's Approach:Guttermaster Limited embraced the project's unique challenges with a focus on custom design, precision engineering, and innovative solutions:Custom Fabrication Expertise: Guttermaster's team developed a Concealed Rainwater Pipe system, Soffits, and Bespoke Fabrications that could seamlessly conform to the arched layout of the project.Adaptive Engineering: Innovative engineering techniques were employed to ensure the concealed rainwater pipe joints could expand with floor-to-floor concrete movement and also provide efficient rainwater management.Balancing Form and Function: The challenge of maintaining architectural integrity while delivering effective rainwater solutions was met through the creation of custom profiles that were both visually pleasing and functional.Results:The collaborative effort between Guttermaster Limited and the project team resulted in the successful integration of Concealed Rainwater Pipes, Soffits, and Bespoke Fabrications at Hampton House:Architectural Synergy: The custom-designed Guttermaster solutions seamlessly integrated into the arched design of the building, preserving its distinctive form and allowing for an abundance of natural light while efficiently managing rainwater.Enhanced Aesthetics: The project showcased Guttermaster's ability to balance form and function, ensuring that the concealed rainwater pipes, soffits, and bespoke fabrications contributed to the building's exterior aesthetics.Innovative Engineering: The custom solutions demonstrated the innovation and adaptability of Guttermaster's engineering team, creating profiles that met the specific needs of the project.Conclusion:The success of Guttermaster Limited in providing Concealed Rainwater Pipes, Soffits, and Bespoke Fabrications for Hampton House, The Corniche, exemplifies the company's dedication to delivering tailored, aesthetically pleasing, and functional rainwater solutions. This project underscores the value of precision engineering, custom design, and the ability to adapt to unique architectural challenges, resulting in a harmonious and iconic addition to London's skyline that seamlessly integrates aesthetics with rainwater management.

Chestnut Way in Repton, Derbyshire, underwent a remarkable architectural restyle, which included the installation of a complete external joinery package featuring floating corner bifold doors. These doors, crafted from Accoya wood, create a captivating and seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces without the need for a supporting post.Gowercroft Products used from the Classic Range:Tutbury Bifolding Door - MoreMelbourne Timber Door - moreHardwick Timber Flush Casement Window - moreThe Concept of Floating Corner Bifold Doors:Floating corner bifold doors are a stunning architectural feature that adds a touch of awe-inspiring elegance to any home. The absence of a corner support beam creates an illusion of a wide open corner, offering uninterrupted views and a unique living experience. Lesley Shaw-Wall, the homeowner, recognized the transformative potential of a floating corner patio room in completing the overall renovation of her property in Repton.Unmatched Design and Functionality:Typically, open corners require additional support, but with a floating corner, integral steel beams hidden within the structure provide the necessary stability. The result is an expansive corner opening, perfect for alfresco dining and creating an airy living space. The floating corner at Chestnut Way showcases the ingenuity of architectural design, enhancing the perceived spaciousness of a relatively small sitting room even when the doors are closed.Craftsmanship and Testimonial:Gowercroft's floating bifold doors at Chestnut Way were meticulously handcrafted from Accoya wood, finished in pristine white paint. Lesley Shaw-Wall expresses her satisfaction with the windows and doors, noting the impressive standard of joinery and recommending Gowercroft without hesitation.Additional Enhancements:The external joinery package at Chestnut Way included a walnut-stained Accoya front door from the Melbourne range. Flanked by winglights, this stylish entrance creates a grand impression and allows more light into the entrance hall. Furthermore, the property was fitted with wooden flush casement windows, taken from the classic Hardwick range. These tall, understated windows complement the unique architectural elements of the house, providing ample natural light without detracting from its distinctive charm.Invest in Accoya Windows and Doors:Gowercroft's commitment to quality is evident in their use of Accoya wood, a durable and weather-resistant timber. Accoya is guaranteed for 50 years in normal applications and can be maintained through Gowercroft's TimbaCare program for a lifetime of maintenance-free service. The Chestnut Way package, finished in white paint with sleek chrome ironmongery, harmoniously blends with the modern, uncluttered style of the interior.Elevate your architectural designs with Gowercroft's floating corner bifold doors and premium joinery solutions. Experience the seamless fusion of indoor and outdoor spaces, exceptional craftsmanship, and timeless elegance.

Natural sunlight and space were two of the key objectives for this extension located in South London. The client, an artist, writer, and former fine arts lecturer, had recently moved to London from Oxfordshire to be closer to her family, and was looking to produce a peaceful, tranquil space to help improve creativity when at work.“I had no fixed ideas about what I wanted, but I wanted more space because it was very small, very dark and I just needed to breathe” Client via Evening Standard.Looking to update this Victorian house into a future proof property, Atelier Baulier Architects worked with the client to achieve the radical vision of a virtually half opened roof through the use of a rooflight. Our Multi-Part Flushglaze rooflight was specified at just short of 8 metres which immerses the entire extension in daylight making the 21 sq. m. space feel much larger, hoping to improve the client’s productivity and focus. The art studio is located under the doubleheight volume, enjoying even light levels throughout the day. The writing room takes the vantage point of the mezzanine above the bathroom and is accessed from the first floor level through an opening made in the gable.Keen to retain discreet detailing to ensure the rooflight framing wasn’t distracting from the design, the Multi Part Rooflight was specified with silicone joints, as opposed to aluminium balustrades, making the product much sleeker. To help daylight flood the room even further, the unit was specified with three Wall Abutments on the high left and right side. The Wall Abutments are not visible from the internal view, this helped to enhance the desired discreet detailing.As stated, the rooflight was supplied in three sections with the frameless silicone joints segmenting each section; the three sections were sized to achieve an equal split when viewed from underneath. This meant that the end sections had to be larger to account for the upstand width.“We aimed to maximise the potential of this unusual site. Rather than subdividing the space the programme is housed within one continuous volume, allowing the daylight to flow through.” Aurore Baulier, Director, Atelier Baulier ArchitectsWith the house being located in a conservation area, the extension naturally blends in with its outstanding surroundings. Brickwork is a major part of this Victorian cottage and its extension. The new volume is a wood-fibre insulated timber construction overclad with bricks slips, resulting in a much lower carbon footprint than a traditional masonry wall. On the interior, brick slips dress the walls continuing the pattern created by the whitewashed brickwork of the existing gable.Atelier Baulier Architects worked brilliantly to maintain the nostalgic look of the building whilst also transforming it into a contemporary home, with the use of a glass rooflight proving to be successful in adding a vast amount of light and space to the originally dark and gloomy Victorian house.

About the projectIn the summer of 2016, Paterson Gordon Architecture were approached to renovate an existing steading that stood in a derelict state. However, the stunning views of Loch Lomond created an inspiring opportunity to design and build a modern family home.Which FAKRO products were used?This property required an increase of natural light for a dark space within the building which could not fulfil its highest potential. By specifying DMF-D U6 and DXF-D U6 flat roof windows, Paterson Gordon Architecture was able to deliver a substantial proportion of natural light into the central hallway. DMF - D U6 Manually-operated Flat Roof WindowManual opening flat roof windows.The type F window is equipped with an energy-efficient triple-glazed DU6 glazing unit.The external glass is 6mm toughened while the internal glass is laminated and anti-burglary P2A Class.Heat transmittance co-efficient for the whole window is U-Value 0.88W/m²K. (glass U-Value 0.5W/m²K).Acoustic rating 34Db (-1.-3).The multi-chamber UPVC upstand is RAL 9010, the internal finish is RAL 9010 white PVC.The step and profiles are in black 9005, the glazing edge colour, called darkness, effect which comes from RAL 9005 (black) the coating has hue of grey.Can be used on roofs with pitches between 2-15°.DXF-D U6 Non-opening Flat Roof WindowNon-opening flat roof window.The Type F Window is equipped with an energy-efficient triple glazed DU6 glazing unit.The external glass is 6mm toughened while the internal glass is laminated and anti-burglary P2A Class.Heat transmittance co-efficient for the whole window is U-Value 0.88W/m²K. (glass U-Value 0.5W/m²K).Acoustic rating 34Db (-1.-3).The multi-chamber UPVC Upstand is RAL9010, the internal finish is RAL9010 White PVC.The step and profiles are in black 9005, the glazing edge colour, called darkness, effect which comes from RAL 9005 (black) the coating has hue of grey.Can be used on roofs with pitches between 2-15°.The existing part of the barn specified conservation-style roof windows to suit the original roof openings. To meet this requirement, FAKRO conservation windows were specified and installed. The characteristic feature is a black vertical mullion bar down the middle of the window and its black cladding. Making it suitable for traditional construction. Most of FAKROs standard windows are available as a conservation window.Why were FAKRO products specified?Primarily, the appearance of the flat roof windows was behind the reason for choosing FAKRO, along with the diverse product range and the ability to install the windows onto zinc, slate, and single-ply membrane roofs.

The Crouch End Picturehouse in North London is an interesting example of how Kalwall® can be used to convert an ugly 1950’s concrete building into a state-of-the-art space suitable for the 21st Century.  •   This project by Panter Hudspith Architects forms part of a wider initiative within the London suburb of Haringey aiming to re-establish the area as one of London’s cultural and arts centres. The result is a remarkable transformation of a building, originally a factory then an office, into a £4.5 million cinema complete with café, bar, restaurant and community rooms.  •   The unique style of this four-screen cinema has attracted much interest, not only because of the dramatic transformation but also because of its new external elevation. •   The use of Kalwall, coupled with other sustainable measures including solar panels and a green wall, means the picturehouse has achieved a BREEAM rating of Very Good. The Solution Panter 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.

The BriefFlitwick Football Centre is a charity in Bedfordshire that aims to provide excellent opportunities to grow and develop sport in the local community of Flitwick. They had a 15m x 9m patio terrace on their grounds and required a canopy that would provide protection from the rain and the sun, so they could use it as a permanent marquee for events.They had browsed our website and liked the look of the Codale Junior Free-Standing Tensile Canopy and requested an estimate for a 15m x 9m structure. Shortly after, they also requested prices for 10m x 6m and 10m x 5m structures.Requesting prices for different sizes and products is a great way to discover your perfect shade and shelter solution that fits within your budget. We’re always happy to discuss your options and find the perfect product for both your needs and available funds.The Solution The volunteers at the football club were pleased with the prices and the specification of the Codale Junior, opting the 10m x 5m option and requested a full site survey so we could provide a firm quotation.To enable the football club to gain the maximum usage from their canopy, they were looking into the possibility of having lighting added to the canopy as well as side panels. These are both possible with the Codale Junior. Cables for lights can be run through the canopy posts as long as they are outdoor IP rated cables and are set within trunking.We also supply tensile fabric side panels for the Codale Junior that can be rolled up when not required. We can supply and install the side panels at a later date so there was no need for the club to make any commitment when ordering the canopy.Upon receipt of the canopy order, we organised a pre-site meeting to finalise the power connections, dimensions, access points, health and safety measures and contacts at the location. This is a standard procedure that applies to all canopy orders before the installation.At the pre-site stage, it was established that planning permission was required however, Able Canopies offer a free service and can submit planning documents, removing any unnecessary stress from our customers. A few years previous in 2019, we installed a canopy nearby at Flitwick Children’s Centre which also required planning permission, so having dealt with the local council before, we liaised with our existing contact to ensure we covered any issues that could arise, ensuring a speedy and smooth planning process.The Installation Once planning was approved, the canopy was installed as scheduled over two days in June 2021 and went ahead smoothly. The volunteers at Flitwick Football Club were pleased with their new shade and shelter structure and were looking forward to gaining a lot of use from it, especially as summer was in full swing.

Bodrum Caresse Hotel Technowood pergola roof covering. Pergola sections spanning over 12 metres, Technowood systems have solved an Architectural problem that been around for decades.Hotel Pergola with unsupported spanHardwood timber has been used for many years. Creating roof structures for both interior and exterior applications. Its well known that with timber, the further you need to span means the larger the timber section required. Only to a certain point where steel flitch beams are required. Then the Architect may consider using Glulam beams in a similar arrangement. The sight of steel plates and huge fixing bolts may not be acceptable to the design and so Architects and designers need something else.“From centre stage and into the lime light shines Technowood… Tah Dah…”Technowood is normally fabricated with Aluminium and timber, this is usually acceptable length to 7.5 metres span. In this instance, the fabrication was with GRP and real timber. Glass Reinforced Polymer is able to span up to 12.5 metres.The exterior terraces, designed with massive pergolas; unsupported throughout their length and signed off from the Structural Engineer for conformance.Swimming Pool PergolaThe swimming pool is also covered with an extreme pergola system. The span here is enormous and impressive nonetheless. It provide the vertical structure exactly as the design intended and provides dappled shade across the whole area. There are no upright support pillars to obstruct the walkways or vista.These sections like exactly like huge timber beams, they maybe GRP in the inside but they are certainly real wood on the outside.Brise soleil for terraces and balconiesYou can see from the images that the Technowood has been used to match the design of the pergolas to create brise soleil arrangements on the balconies. These are normal quite small affairs in small spans and not normally in timber, these are different. They are massive in section, huge in length and still in timber.Architects often specify raised timber structures to create shade from the sun. Technowood enable the design to become reality somewhat easier than first imagined. The sections can be moveable, house lighting and speakers too.Installing a Technowood PergolaEach project design must go through the design team at Technowood for approval; They advise on all fixing details. The team have designed and delivered thousands of projects over the last 2 and more decadesInstead of many hands, cranes and dangerous work environments, Technowood systems for Pergolas and Brise Soleil arrangements are lightweight. The fixings, usually hidden from sight resulting in cleaner lines, no flitch plates or nuts and bolts.Contact Technowood to realise your design into the unimaginable…We also have a showroom at The Sky House Design Centre please get in touch to book an appointment.

Award-winning Surrey-based firm, Fletcher Crane Architects, has specified Vandersanden’s 65mm Antro facing brick for interiors and exteriors at Tree House, an impressive, new, contemporary home in Ealing, West London. Located in a conservation area and constructed on a 12 x 12m former garage site, bounded by rear gardens, Tree House is a two-bedroom property that stands assertively against the characterful and repetitive villas in the street. Fletcher Crane has designed the home as an articulated series of volumes in a split-level arrangement of rooms around a central spine. The kitchen and living room sit on the upper storeys to make the most of natural daylight while the two bedrooms are submerged within semi-sunken floors.Boldly deployed and celebrated for the texture, variation and interest they provide, Tree House’s components are a fundamental part of the Fletcher Crane vision. Inside and outside the home, extensive use is made of three principal materials to create a naturally appealing, raw palette of black ash timber, tubular metalwork and multi-coloured Antro brick from Vandersanden.The load bearing Antro brickwork is exposed and flush-jointed with traditional lime mortar to create a unifying, almost monolithic appearance. ‘Baubuche’ structural timber joists span the brick structure, while, in the basement, the in-situ concrete frame is left bare. The central staircase is encased in ash timber panelling which is set against more curved Antro brickwork and sharp metal balustrades. Outside a sunken planted courtyard is accessed using stepped Antro brick planters and a paddle stair constructed of black cobble setts.“We like the texture, the tones and the variety that the Antro brick gives us at Tree House,” says Harry Reid, Architect at Fletcher Crane Architects. “Vandersanden offers a significant range of these light multi-coloured bricks, both in white and grey hues which are very attractive for this type of project. The company supplied us with a number of sample options for comparison and contrast, and we duly selected Antro as our brick of choice. We’re delighted with it, particularly in how the Antro brick combines with the lime mortar, and other components at Tree House to create the overall feeling of an intimate yet generous home that’s filled with light and rich in materials.”Antro is created from a combination of different clay forms which yield a grey base colour, then coated with specific sand types to bring a grained, creased texture to the brick. The clay structure evokes darker and lighter tones out of the base grey along with shades of white in the overall final appearance.For more information on Fletcher Crane Architects go to https://www.fletchercranearchitects.com/. 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' linkCredit: Photography by Lorenzo Zandri © 2021

An imposing boutique scheme of nine luxury apartments in Hackney, London, Bastion House is a modern take on a castle-like structure with its multi-faceted walls, tiered form and variously sized openings. The choice of Vandersandan’s Lima facing brick enhances this robust look while the brick’s light colour contrasts with the black mortar joints and recessed jet-black window frames and balcony soffits. Bastion House is built on the site of a two-storey, post-war house on Farleigh Road in a predominantly residential area that includes a variety of architectural styles and a range of building heights. The new building is five storeys in total but its scale and massing are carefully considered, stepping back at both third and fourth floor levels in response to the surrounding built form, while also ensuring that the crown of a street tree, immediately to the west of the site, remains unaffected. Creative brickworkGoldrose Sharpe, the developers of Bastion House, embraced the challenge of carefully detailing the brickwork which, along with the building’s unconventional form, helps it stand out. Specially cut bricks were employed to achieve the different angled corners - most corners of the building are not at a right angle. Brick soffit panels were designed to surround the balcony openings along with brick-faced lintels to create depth to the set-back windows. Relief panels employing a different brickwork pattern were also introduced at various points across the facades. When selecting the bricks for the project, the team at Goldrose Sharpe ordered samples from various brick suppliers. “We were exploring our options with light coloured bricks,” explains Maria Patton, project lead at Goldrose Sharpe. “The Lima bricks have this artisanal, handmade texture which is quite unique; they stood out compared to other brick samples.” The Lima is a stock brick consisting of a mix of different clays with a white base colour, grey accents and a sanded-coated and grained structure.Goldrose Sharpe purchased the bricks directly from Vandersanden.“Vandersanden was always very helpful with its customer service and the team there was good at explaining the technicalities of the brick,” says Maria Patton. “We had to send the bricks to be specially cut and made for the special angles and brick-faced soffits and lintels. They worked well to these variations.”An impactful facadeThe Lima bricks and the impressive detailing ensure Bastion House makes a bold statement. “We often notice people who walk past the building touch the walls out of curiosity,” notes Maria Patton. “We’re very happy with the final result and the overall look of the brickwork. The use of the Lima bricks made a real difference to the building’s appearance.”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