"low voltage distribution systems"

Glazing Vision worked closely with Architect, A R C Architecture Ltd, and Contractors, Matrod Frampton Ltd, on this incredible project located in Lymington, Hampshire, where the client was looking for their new pool room extension to include a large, flat rooflight, creating a peaceful and naturally lit room, perfect for a relaxing swim. They were also looking for a rooflight within the loft area of the home to allow natural daylight and ventilation to the space.Glazing Vision’s Flushglaze Fixed Multipart Rooflight in Slate Grey Matt was specified for the roof of the pool house, which was an impressive 3800mm x 10360mm in size, which almost mirrors the size of the swimming pool below.Bespoke glass was selected for this particular project. The double-glazed outer pane was made up of heat soak tested, toughened glass which offers a greater resistance to thermal stresses and provides better protection against glass breaking, reducing risk of injury, essential with a pool directly below.Argon gas filled the space between the panes of glass which helps insulate the room and minimises the transfer of heat through the glass along with a black warm edge spacer which is an insulating plastic composite material that becomes a barrier to heat loss.The inner pane consisted of heat soak tested, toughened, PVB laminated glass which prevents glass shattering under impact by holding the shards together on the membrane so they cannot become lethal, and includes a soft coat low E rating of 1.1, helping with the energy efficiency of the room by reducing energy costs.The product was tested to class 1 in accordance with CWCT TN66/67 which is essential for rooflights which might be walked on for occasional cleaning/ maintenance activities, and which will therefore need to support both the weight of people on the glass and their equipment, which may be required on this occasion.The rooflight was supplied in 6 sections with internal back-to-back angles at the joints between each section. The 6 sections were sized to achieve an equal split when viewed from underneath.Our Skydoor Electric Hinged Access Rooflight was specified on the roof of the loft space which is ideal for ventilation and regular access, and offers natural daylight to the space below. Intelligent actuators ensure synchronized operation between the two supporting mechanisms, so the Skydoor opens to a maximum 87° in one fluid, trouble-free motion, providing you with easy access to the space above.The glass was a double-glazed unit comprising of a heat soak tested, toughened, soft coat low E (1.1) outer pane, with Argon Gas within the space between the panes and black warm edge spacer, with the inner pane consisting of heat soak tested, toughened, PVB Laminated glass, and was also tested to class 1.Both rooflights were expertly installed by our sister brand, Glazing Renovations.“Glazing Vision were helpful in explaining the two different upstands required for the different glazing systems. The installation team were helpful and carried out their work in a professional manor.” – Steve Davies, Site Manager, Matrod Frampton.

Exceptional lambda value prompts Keltbray switch to Ravatherm XPS X 500SL for White City Place developmentCollaboration between Ravago Building Solutions, SIG Distribution, and Keltbray has seen Ravatherm XPS X insulation selected for the prestigious Gateway Central development at White City Place. The new eleven storey building meets significant demand for office space in West London and will serve as headquarters for such companies as L’Oreal UK and Ireland. With construction being managed by Sir Robert McAlpine, the development is set to open in 2022 and will feature Ravatherm XPS X 500 SL flooring insulation.Produced in King’s Lynn, UK, Ravatherm XPS X 500 SL is the perfect solution for heavy-duty applications; manufactured by extrusion production procedure, its closed-cell structure means it offers high compressive strength and resists deterioration. With a declared lambda of 0.031 or 0.032 dependent on thickness, and resistance to water and frost, it is a high-performing and long-lasting thermal insulation.Chris Gimson, Commercial Director UK & Ireland, Ravago Building Solutions, said: “Our partnership with SIG and Keltbray for this project has ensured that the Gateway Central building will benefit from high performance thermal insulation, securing significant savings on energy costs and usage – a key consideration for buildings of this size.”Noel Healy, Drylining Director, SIG added: “Dealing with construction engineering specialists like Keltbray and supplying them with innovative insulation solutions from a company with the pedigree of Ravago is part of SIG’s heritage. It is a privilege to work with them both as part of the supply chain for Gateway Central at White City Place.”Andrew Healey, Project Manager for Keltbray added: “We were greatly impressed by Ravago’s swift and effective collaborative approach to providing a solution for this project that satisfied both structural and thermal requirements, ensuring outstanding quality without compromise to our budget and programme constraints.”

2019 Best Educational New Build at the SPACES Awards2019 Highly Commended at the Sussex Heritage AwardsVacated in 1994 and in a state of disrepair since a fire destroyed its chapel in 2009, the convent in Hunston required partial demolishing and refurbishment. IG’s gothic arch lintels played an important role in the restoring character to the original convent built in 1870 – now a central piece to the new Chichester Free School.Challenge:The £26.5m project plans, designed by Novium Architects and built by Farrans Construction needed to retain the unique single and double gothic arch windows surrounded by stone detailing. Extraordinary engineering was required to help secure the traditional architecture within the crumbling walls.Solution:The use of BIM by Doran Consulting within a Common Data Environment (Aconex) allowed their design team to integrate a digital survey of the existing convent building into the 3D models for the refurbishment to the existing and the extension of the two new school wings. This was vital in designing the new structure around the existing building, avoiding potential site clashes and to deal with complex details connecting the old building with the new, well in advance of site construction.To ensure the existing convent facades were restored to their former glory, IG’s production team replicated a double gothic arch lintels to the exacting design and measurements required. A 1580mm opening span, incorporating two 650mm wide gothic arch details, with a 430mm rise was specified – increasing the end bearing to extend the distribution of the load to the brickwork.The disused 19th century Carmelite convent has been successfully transformed into an educational facility. The new school blocks are linear in form with each wing projecting either side of the newly restored convent. The bespoke solution helped to rediscover the architectural significance of the old building as part of a new contemporary setting. The school now boasts a 600m2 sports hall, 250m2 hall and dedicated music and performance spaces for over 1280 students from reception age right through to sixth form.

Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal (DIRFT) is a rail-road intermodal freight terminal with an associated warehousing estate in Northamptonshire. Owned by Prologis, the business park was originally built in the 90’s, but a recent expansion has added around 4 million square feet of storage and office space. Some buildings are already occupied by leading brands such as Royal Mail, BooHoo, Dunelm, Tesco and Sainsburys.DIRFT’s Unit DC628 (DC10) is a net zero carbon building with 627,707 square foot warehouse space rated BREEAM Excellent. Among its features are solar PV systems, a roof terrace, and enhanced external amenities.Our team was commissioned to provide seating and planting solutions for the outdoor amenity space and roof terrace by BCA Design, Landscape Architects for the project.Our RailRoad modular seating solution with Delta supports, and FSC iroko timber slats, that are left untreated to allow natural weathering, was installed in the outdoor amenity area adjacent to the car park - along with Parallel picnic tables and benches and Zenith 500 litter bins - creating an outdoor lunch break environment in which employees can enjoy during warm weather.Decking supplied by Outdoor Deck was installed on the roof terrace of the building, complete with our AKRI 300 steel planters with 500mm high panels, manufactured from triple process recycled steel, to form a variety of linear shapes filled with plants and greenery to create a peaceful oasis with a view of the countryside.Seating and benches made from FSC Iroko timber which included armrests on some, were integrated onto the planters to provide warehouse staff with quiet spaces to relax. The rooftop planters were complemented by the addition of our Hollo range of freestanding low seating / tables

An architect designed, self-build house with annexe for a multi-generational family built to zero-carbon standards.The scheme’s design is influenced by the architectural vernacular of the area. The surrounding houses are a legacy of the Land Settlement Association scheme, with distinctive mansard roofs, steeply sloping gables and dormer windows, constructed in a simple red brick with terracotta plain tiles.The mansard is reflected in the new house with the roof extending down to form the walls. Instead of terracotta tiles, large format slate has been used to form a modern equivalent. The house is mainly slate tile; however, it was felt important to also reflect local brickwork. As such, brickwork was used for two huge brick-faced chimney stacks that rise through the gable.PROJECT INFOTo form a contrast with the very smooth grey of the slate, a textured red brick with slight colour variation was sought. White mortar lightens the brickwork while recessed mortar joints are used inside to provide shadow to each brick. Perforated brickwork surrounds the stone coping on both chimney stacks, adding visual interest to the building through both the materials and the shadows created by the brickwork perforations.The brick selected was stock thrown Hampton Rural Blend from Forterra’s Ecostock range. It has a rustic finish resembling handmade brick. Ecostock bricks are manufactured using the latest technology in sustainability and production efficiency, producing bricks with low embodied energy as well as advanced colour consistency, dimensional accuracy and quality.The structure incorporated huge amounts of insulation, a mechanical ventilation with heat recovery system, and a solar photovoltaic array at the bottom of the garden, along with a ground-source heat pump. These installations will ensure that the house generates more electricity than it could ever use.

Polytan LigaTurf Cross at the Campo Municipal de Fútbol, SpainDURABLE AND SUSTAINABLE SOLUTION AT AN ANDALUSIAN LANDMARKOjén is known as a pueblo blanco – one of the “white villages” near Málaga that are typical in Andalusia. The village is located between the nearby Costa del Sol and the Sierra de las Nieves mountains, just a few kilometres from Marbella. The year-round temperate climate is not only enjoyed by approximately 4,000 locals, but tourists are also increasingly discovering this location. Lush greenery sparkles thanks to the rain which is abundant by southern Spanish standards. Unlike other coastal towns, Ojén has not committed any building sins in favour of mass tourism, thereby maintaining the typical Andalusian architectural style of previous centuries.The athletes training at the Campo Municipal de Fútbol, known as “El Arenal”, also have a magnificent view over the mountain village down to the Mediterranean Sea. The sports field is located on the opposite side of the valley, cut deep into the rocky landscape by the Almadán stream. It is part of a sports centre that also includes basketball facilities, tennis courts and a swimming pool.The football pitch has a covered stand and floodlights. In spring 2023, we installed our Polytan LigaTurf Cross there as part of modernisation works. This infilled synthetic turf combines straight and textured filaments, their respective benefits combining to create the ideal turf system. The straight filaments provide a look and feel that is almost reflective of a real football field, while the textured filaments guarantee low and easy maintenance, greater infill stability and generally increased turf volume.What’s special about the Campo Municipal de Fútbol is that Polytan installed the first synthetic turf there back in 2005. This time, only the turf itself had to be renewed, since the elastic base layer can still be used.

Within London’s sought-after area of Victoria is situated the architecturally cutting edge commercial and residential development, Howick Place.This 143,000sq ft. of Grade A office space and 23 luxury apartments is a flagship development by joint developers Doughty Hanson & Co and Terrace Hill Group PLC. The building is modern, stylish and full of light due to its impressive floor to ceiling windows delivering a perfect working space for the luxury brands it has already attracted. Responsible for the impressive design were Rolfe Judd Architects. Not only did they want to create an exterior that that was visually stunning but also an interior that show modern design at its best.This inspirational working environment had to make an immediate impact with potential occupant’s right from the moment they step in to the expansive reception area to rinsing their hands in the washrooms. To help achieve this Rolfe Judd appointed Sylan to supply and install their modern and luxurious washroom products so the building represented the highest quality craftsmanship no matter where you are in the building.When discussing the importance of a quality washroom fit out project architect Andrew Wall said: “Our clients are becoming increasingly concerned with the quality of their washroom facilities. More and more people are cycling to work in the city and so we needed washroom and changing areas that met our client’s high standards”.Sylan's Real Wood Veneer toilet cubicles were specified for the washrooms. With 44mm Real Wood Veneer doors and totally invisible fixings, Sylan was the perfect choice for this project given that quality was such an important factor:“We were very impressed with the Sylan system. We needed a totally bespoke system and Sylan gave us just that. We needed flexibility from our cubicle choice so we could achieve the level of detail required for this project”.Being offset against contemporary Lime Stone Vanity Units, also supplied by Sylan, the cubicles gave the perfect contrast between the traditional and the modern.To further enhance this cutting edge design Glass Duct Panels were also installed in the washrooms. Being fully aware that accuracy and precision was critical to the build, Sylan ensured due care and attention was paid when installing all products but particularly when dealing with this delicate and intricate design element.Sylan Products Supplied:Real Wood Veneer Toilet CubiclesFlush frontedStrong and SecureInvisible fixing systemIdeal for where low impact interiors are neededAvailable in 11 Real Wood VeneersReal Wood Veneer Duct PanellingCo-ordinating panelling to cubiclesInfinite repetition of colourAvailable in 11 Real Wood VeneersQuartz VanityExtremely hard wearingClassic style that will last for years to comeAvailable in 9 coloursSupplied with or without cut outs

Sector:     EducationArchitect:  Innes Associates Specified for: ·      Sustainable construction·      Inner timber frame ·      Durable external aluminium·      Design versatility·      Competitive pricingDesigned by architects Innes Associates, the latest addition to Cromer Road Primary School is a distinctive, L-shaped red-brick classroom building which wraps around a newly landscaped play space. VELFAC slim-framed windows and doors are a key feature of every facade, with dark grey external frames emphasising the pattern of shadows created by textured brickwork and inset window apertures. The VELFAC system has also helped architect Corrie Rounding meet challenging regulatory and sustainability targets while maximising usable space, increasing natural light and improving ventilation. ‘We pushed the contractor to specify VELFAC as we knew the composite frame was the right fit for the Cromer Road project,’ says Corrie. ‘The sustainability of the VELFAC system, and its low energy performance, met Department of Education requirements, while the robust external aluminium frame is ideal for a busy school environment. The design of the windows and doors also met our aesthetic brief, especially the inner timber frames. These are clear lacquered to emphasise the wood, provide a link with the trees surrounding the new building, and to deliver a less ‘sterile’ finish than aluminium or uPVC.’The VELFAC system could also meet key ventilation, daylighting and budget targets: ‘To manage costs, and maximise daylight in the right places, we concentrated our glazing allowance at the areas of most activity,’ explains Corrie, ‘but we also used windows to maximise the usability of the interior. For example, we used tall slim VELFAC units to illuminate the staircase but placed larger windows directly under the stairs to create an additional and useful breakout space.’The Cromer Road building is naturally ventilated, unusual for a Department for Education funded primary school project, with VELFAC units carefully configured to support an efficient flow of fresh air: ‘We wanted to make sure the building could stay comfortable without the need for mechanical cooling, even through the hottest summer,’ says Corrie. ‘This meant the placement of smaller windows on south facing facades, to manage solar gain, and the specification of multiple opening units across the building, including high level teleflex-operated lights. These are especially important in the classroom window screens where ventilation is guided by CO2 monitors.’ To ensure the security of children and staff, all windows also feature restrictors, with finger guards fitted to doors as an additional safety measure.Corrie was also pleased with the support provided by the VELFAC team, especially in the early stages: ‘VELFAC provided the estimates and performance data we needed to convince the contractor that VELFAC was the ideal solution for this project,’ she says, ‘and the school was certainly very happy with the end result’.

Goodluck Hope sits in an enviable position on the banks of the river Thames, directly opposite the 02 Arena. This flagship project from the Irish developer, Ballymore, is a prime example of stunning contemporary design with an industrial edge. Using a mix of blue and green façades, interiors feature bright, colour palettes interspersed with splashes of polished brass in both the kitchens and bathrooms.Towelrads have worked with the M&E subcontractor, Borough Engineering, on every phase of the waterside development and supplied Multicolumn radiators, along with chrome and white towel rails, to the private and shared units. This unique island development features an eclectic mix of contemporary buildings including suites, 1,2-, and 3-bedroom apartments, lofts and townhouses. With so many different plot types, most sizes throughout the project have been made to order with vertical and low-level radiators supplied, some up to 1.6m long.

The ChallengeLocated in Haywards Heath, West Sussex, Foundry Gardens is a development of two to five-bedroomed housing. It was important that this relatively low-density scheme fit the traditional vernacular of the area.The SolutionChelsea Smoked Red brick was chosen and used alongside white boarding and tile. The white boarding element has been used to emphasis corner and key buildings, detailing porches and canopies.Chelsea Smoked Red brick is a red, stock thrown, wire cut brick by Ecostock, the most sustainable stock brick available in the UK. It is a high quality facing brick with recycled content. The range carries BES 6001 Responsible Sourcing certification.The BenefitsThe choice of brick helps the development to seamlessly fuse the traditional with the contemporary.The project won the Large House Builder category at the Brick Development Association’s annual Brick Awards 2018.

Alexandra House, a former health clinic, delivers 16 affordable, high-quality homes meeting low energy and dependable living standards. Comprising of 9 two bedroom flats which front the main junction of Northern Parade and Doyle Avenue, adjacent are 4 three bedroom houses and 3 Dependable living houses. This development is Portsmouth City Council’s most energy efficient scheme, utilising an all-electric set up, sourced from a number of PV Panels within the development.Cellecta’s ScreedBoard 28 was specified by HGP Architects due to it being suitable for all floor types and is frequently viewed as the solution of choice for new build and refurbishment developments. Its interlocking edges for installation convenience, high density, and unique resilient layer provides unrivalled acoustic performance.PMC Construction were supplied 482m² of Cellecta products for this development in Hilsea, Portsmouth.

Shard Place is a 26 story residential development housing 176 apartments from studios to three bedrooms and the third building in Renzo Piano’s Shard Quarter. Situated between St. Thomas Street and London Bridge Street and adjacent to The Shard, Shard Place was previously Fielden House before demolition. Shard Place is one of London’s most central and connected residences, a 28-minute train ride from Gatwick international airport and a short stroll to London’s South Bank. It encompasses five-star amenities, including a rooftop pool, fitness suite, cinema room and private roof garden.Cellecta’s HiDECK Structural 28 was specified by Renzo Piano Building Workshop due to to it being a conductive structural floorboard and having outstanding acoustic and fire performance and low thermal resistance.Mace was awarded this 12,000m² contract for this development in London.

The Old Sorting Office is a development comprising of 83 one and two bedroom studio apartments located in the heart of Bournemouth. Spanning over six floors, with two retail units on the ground floor, this scheme fills the gap between the surrounding buildings and repairs the grain of development on Albert Road. Design using a Traditional, Contemporary style, this development is in close proximity to an array of various local restaurants, pubs and shops.Cellecta’s ScreedBoard 28 was specified by ARC Architecture due to the high sound reduction performance and low floor levels. As it’s suitable for all floor types, it is frequently viewed as the solution of choice for new build and refurbishment developments. Its interlocking edges for installation convenience, high density, and unique resilient layer provides unrivalled acoustic performance.Herbert H Drew was supplied 2,800m² of Cellecta products for this development in Bournemouth.

Spring Boroughs is a development of 34 new affordable homes, comprising of 2 and 3 bed houses and a retail unit. Originally a scheme comprising of 18 homes off Little Cross Street, this development went under a full review to secure more sites and increase the development, including the relocation of a retail unit. Significant social value was created as part of the development, as it provided the community with much needed affordable housing.Cellecta’s ScreedBoard 28 was specified by Northampton Partnership Homes due to the high sound reduction performance and low floor levels. As it’s suitable for all floor types, it is frequently viewed as the solution of choice for new build and refurbishment developments. Its interlocking edges for installation convenience, high density, and unique resilient layer provides unrivalled acoustic performance.Willmott Dixon was supplied 600m² of Cellecta products to develop these flats in Northampton.

Fowey Hall is a hotel located within a mansion on 5 acres of grounds overlooking the Fowey Estuary. The hotel is a 5-minute walk from Fowey town centre and 8 miles from the Eden Project. The scheme comprises of a refurbishment, reconfiguration and extension of the existing four-star family hotel including rooftop extensions, this provides enhanced facilities including additional guestrooms, new creche and children's playroom, lounge area, and outdoor swimming pool with pavilion. Landscaping works, additional parking, and associated infrastructure. This project also includes associated infrastructure works and access roads.Cellecta’s HiDECK Structural 25 was specified by Jeremy Blake Architects due to it being a conductive structural floorboard and having outstanding acoustic and fire performance and low thermal resistance.Brady Construction Services was awarded this 320m² contract for this development in Cornwall.

The client required a durable, low-maintenance, all-season surface for this 3.3 km stretch of two-way, segregated cycleway in Birmingham that would offer clear demarcation and provide a safe, appealing route for cyclists.ULTICOLOUR, Tarmac’s durable coloured asphalt was chosen to surface this cycleway, in a mid blue colour, to provide clear demarcation from the existing road surface. Using a high performance clear binder it offers brighter coloured asphalts, ideal for demarcation. ULTICOLOUR SMA is BBA HAPAS approved for use on UK highways as a coloured thin surface course and has been in use on UK roads for over 20 years. It has proven to be highly durable, delivering lasting performance, even on highly trafficked roads. ULTICOLOUR can be laid quickly over large areas using standard paving equipment, just like a conventional surface course.

Aspext is located close to the Lea Valley, a short walk from the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and its range of facilities. The area, known as Hackney Wick is a community full of culture undergoing a wealth of regeneration following the London 2012 Olympics and boasts an wide array of galleries, bars and restaurants. The apartment building, one of six individual buildings on the Wick Lane development provides a selection of one, two & three bedroom apartments.The design incorporates Standing Seams at 200mm, 300mm, 400mm & 500mm centres in a random arrangement wrapping both the vertical façade and across the roof areas.GreenCoat PLX RAL 6027, Glacial Green was selected as it offered the Architect the bespoke colour selection. A separate low level building on the site is clad and roofed using GreenCoat PLX Metallic Silver in a similar random seam layout. 

TODD Architects completes redbrick business school for Queen’s Belfast. Queen’s University’s £17.5 million business school sits within its south Belfast campus, in front of the Grade II-listed Riddel Hall and enclosed by woodland.The new building, built on a former car park, has teaching and learning spaces for postgraduate students along with facilities for supporting the school’s executive education and leadership programmes, with informal study areas, academic offices and shared spaces.The external palette of materials is restrained to sit within its context, combining red clay brick, bronze-framed aluminium and floor-to-ceiling glazed screens. Red cast stone delineates colonnades at the upper and lower entrances.Inside the circulation spaces, exposed concrete soffits with floating ceiling rafts, board-marked concrete walls, timber wall sheeting and terrazzo flooring, create a robust aestheticOne of the key spaces is a top-lit, triple-height atrium with a feature stair providing access from the ground floor reception to the upper ground level, where informal study booths overlook a landscaped courtyard.Primary teaching spaces are restricted to the lower ground floor with large volume lecture theatres set into the surrounding landscape to lessen their visual impact and massing.A low-energy, ecologically sensitive design approach was adopted from the outset. One measure taken was a major geothermal heat system. Piles were driven to a depth of 125m in an adjoining field to extract heat from the sandstone substrate and provide low-level constant heat via underfloor heating, resulting in a 60 per cent reduction in carbon emissions.The £17.5 million project extends to include the partial refurbishment of a listed property.In 2016, Queen’s Business School merged with the William J Clinton Leadership Institute. It is located in the university's Riddel Hall campus on the Stranmillis Road and planned to expand its facilities in 2017 due to continued growth.Architect’s viewOur appointment arose out of a design competition, promoted by the university. We presented a plan diagram based on how we envisaged people might move through the building and a conceptual architectural approach that proposed carefully knitting the built form into its landscaped setting, both of which are still very evident in the finished building.Externally in respect of materiality, the building echoes the neighbouring, listed Riddel Hall in its use of red brick and cast stone. Internally we have sought to ensure a connectivity for users with surrounding mature woodland, with board-marked concrete and other natural finishes combining to create a calm, robust and understated aesthetic.We promoted a low-energy, ecologically sensitive design approach from the outset, securing a BREEAM Excellent rating, with the building’s renewable energy sources including a major geothermal heat system beneath an adjoining lawn and roof mounted arrays of solar/photovoltaic panels.Peter Minnis, project director, TODD ArchitectsClients’ viewsQueen’s University Belfast is moving towards net zero, and this building – which uses sustainable ground source heating – is an important part of the journey. The design of the building, which is sleek, contemporary, and future-focused, boasts the scenic quality of being nestled in the trees of the Stranmillis Conservation Area.The building is helping us a) grow our international stature and esteem by hosting high-profile events; b) expanding our research-led dialogue with the business community by providing space for collaboration and dissemination activities; and c) offers a fantastic student experience via tailor-made areas for learning and study.Professor MN Ravishankar, dean and head, Queen’s Business SchoolThe new Queen’s Business School is the latest building in Queen’s University’s capital investment programme to support world-class education and research and provide an exceptional learning environment and experience for its students. TODD Architects have exceeded expectations in terms of the University’s estate, with this truly iconic building.To address the significant growth in our student numbers and the unprecedented demand for our graduates, the University with full support from local government and employers, approved a capital investment in excess of £26m in a new Business School Building. Designed by TODD Architects, the building provides state-of-the-art teaching and research facilities for more than 3,000 students and 130 academic staff and will play a key role in the future growth and development of Northern Ireland’s business and finance sectors.Through collaboration and a commitment to excellence, TODD Architects has ensured that this facility will enable the Business School to continue its growth, by attracting the best staff and students from Northern Ireland and around the world, and to produce graduates who will make a positive impact on society.We are delighted with our new landmark building that will take Queen’s Business School into the next phase of its development and serving future generations to come.Sonia O’Hare, school manager, Queen’s Business School https://www.architectsjournal.co.uk/buildings/todd-architects-completes-redbrick-business-school-for-queens-belfast?tkn=1 Project dataStart on site September 2020Completion May 2023Gross internal floor area 6,000m² (including 250m² basement)Form of contract JCT Standard Building Contract with Quantities 2016 EditionConstruction cost £17.5 millionArchitect TODD ArchitectsClient Queen’s University BelfastStructural engineer WSPM&E consultant AH DesignQS WSPLandscape architect McIlwaineAcoustic consultant FR Mark & AssociatesProject manager WSPPrincipal designer WSPBuilding control BCC/Local authorityMain contractor Felix O’HareCAD software used Revit

These are the latest secure FalcoPod bike hangars installed this month at the new Harper Collins Publishers editorial office and distribution at Robroyston in Glasgow, which is currently the largest logistics development project in Scotland.Falco manufactured, supplied and installed a series of ten secure FalcoPod Bike Hangars, a 12m FalcoQuarter waiting shelter run and a secure FalcoLok-500 refuse store.Each FalcoPod bike hangar provides secure cycle parking for up to six bikes each, providing a total of 60 secure cycle parking spaces for employee use. Each bike hangar has been supplied with instructional signage, powder coated in a Harper Collins blue RAL colour and Harper Collins branding graphics.Installed outside the main entrance, each secure bike hangar takes up no more room than a single car parking space and is capable of accommodating all types of cycles - from road and mountain bikes to bikes with a child seat on the back or storage basket on the front.A 12m waiting and smoking shelter has been installed next to the bike hangars, made up of a series of three 4m FalcoQuarter shelters, one starter section and two add-on sections. The modular nature of the FalcoQuarter allows additional shelters bays to be added or removed in the future.A secure 5m x 4m FalcoLok-500 refuse store has also been installed next to the waiting shelter, clad in sustainable hardwood slats and fitted with double doors and a secure access system.FalcoPod Bike Hangar The FalcoPod bike hangar, as shown here at Harper Collins Publications, is a robust on-street cycle parking solution designed to meet the needs of cyclists who don’t have access to private cycle parking facilities. The improved innovative shape means that users no longer have to remove some baskets or child seats when storing their bike!Falco design is both evolutionary and innovative by nature and the new FalcoPod is no exception. This is the third generation of ‘bike hangar’ type product building on the pedigree of the original street locker the ‘Midi Bike Box’ with some great new features over existing products as follows:Size - fits in half a car parking space and houses 6 bikes, with covered weather protection.Family inclusive – with an ergonomically improved design, the additional space/height (55% more) means there is no need to remove child seats or baskets from the back or front of bikes.Bike security - the six place FalcoSound bike rack has three locking points including the ability to use a ‘D’ lock through the rear wheel and frame.Easy access - single door with integral lock and gas strut for assisted lifting.The effective bike hangar has already been successfully rolled out to the London Borough of Waltham Forest, Brent, Camden, Westminster and Merton Councils. Bike Hangar Management and MaintenanceThrough our ‘Falco Rentals’ team, Falco now offers local authorities and private companies a fully managed bike hangar service dealing with key management and public payments as well as a regular planned maintenance service to support the council with its ongoing public service maintenance obligations.This service is not just restricted to bike hangars though, we are able to provide a rental service for any cycle parking facility, from cycle hubs and bike stores through to individual cycle lockers, the Falco Rentals system is both flexible and simple to use.For more information about the FalcoPod Bike Hangar, the FalcoPod Bike Hangar service or your cycle parking scheme, please contact our helpful sales team on 01538 380080. 

A Fusion of Tradition and InnovationIn Belper, Derbyshire, Quarry Cottage, a beacon of history, embraced modernity with Gowercroft's Heritage Windows and vacuum glazing. Sylvia's pursuit of timeless design led to a harmonious blend of traditional aesthetics and cutting-edge efficiency.Perfect Upgrade: Heritage Windows with Vacuum GlazingWith no strict heritage mandate, Sylvia chose Gowercroft's Heritage Windows for their seamless fit with Quarry Cottage's charm. Nestled amid the Peak District, Belper's historic legacy found an ideal complement in the cottage's traditional stone façade.Richmond Casement Heritage Window: A Modern ClassicSylvia opted for the Richmond Casement Heritage Window—a marriage of classic styling and modern efficiency. The vacuum double glazing provided the appearance of traditional single-glazed windows while leveraging the benefits of vacuum cavity double glazing.LandVac Heritage Glazing Units: Efficiency RedefinedAt the heart of Quarry Cottage's upgraded windows is the vacuum glazing. Elevating efficiency, this ultra-slim 8.2mm glazing unit boasts an industry-leading centre pane thermal efficiency of 0.4 W/m²K. Mimicking traditional single-glazing, it adds both aesthetic authenticity and longevity to the heritage upgrade.Accoya Timber: Low Maintenance, High PerformanceCrafted with Accoya timber, Gowercroft’s Heritage Windows and Doors boast unparalleled stability and strength. The unique treatment process minimises expansion and contraction, ensuring resilience against temperature changes and water ingress. Meticulous finishing extends their lifespan, offering a harmonious blend of low maintenance and high performance.Weather Resistance and Assurance: 10-Year GuaranteeGowercroft's commitment to quality is evident in rigorous weather resistance testing under the BS6375 standard. Accoya, sourced sustainably, aligns with responsible practices. Each Heritage Window and Door comes with a 10-year guarantee, while TimbaCare cover offers homeowners peace of mind, ensuring minimal maintenance for enduring perfection.In Quarry Cottage, tradition intertwines with innovation, creating an everlasting allure that seamlessly integrates into Belper's architectural legacy. Explore the synergy of tradition and efficiency with Vacuum Glazing — a choice standing the test of time.

Cycle storage for new industrial units and office spaceAs part of a new development near Bristol, which included 4 new industrial units set for various uses, IAE Shelter Division supplied a series of Circonomy Cycle Shelters to provide dry and secure cycle storage, with the aim of encouraging more cycle use on the daily commute.The industrial units varied in size and included manufacturing, warehousing, and office space.As the units varied in size, each unit required a different number of cycle spaces. This is both for practical purposes, and to ensure the development meets BREEAM guidelines, which require a certain amount of dry, secure cycle storage spaces, depending on the number of people occupying the building, and the size of the building.Extendable Modular DesignThe Circonomy Cycle Shelters modular design meant it was ideal to meet these requirements. An individual Circonomy Cycle shelter fits 5 cycle hoops and is suitable to securely store 10 bicycles. Extensions can be added to the end of the shelter to increase capacity as needed. Individual shelter units, cycle hoops and extensions are all available from stock at IAE Shelters.The modular design meant the same style of shelter could be used across all the different sized units on the development to provide a consistent look across the site.Low Impact StylingBREEAM guidelines also state that the cycle storage has to be in a prominent, easy to access location to encourage cycle use, and not hidden around the back of the unit to hide it from site.The low impact styling of the Cicrconomy Cycle Shelter provides an unobtrusive look and means the shelter can be easily dropped into a site layout without concerns about it affecting the overall look of the project.To finish the design, the galvanised frames were powder coated anthracite grey to give a contemporary look.Specifying IAE SheltersThe Circonomy Cycle Shelter is IAE's most popular shelter, with hundreds installed around the country. To add the shelter to your project check out the featured products section below, or contact IAE Shelters directly.

Middlewood Locks is a prestigious 25-acre mixed-use regeneration scheme of Salford’s canal district. The first development phase included the construction of Quarry, an eight-storey building combining ground floor commercial space, luxury apartments and an undercroft car park for residents. It was the insulation for this car park that threw up a challenge for sub-contractor Horbury Building Systems. A complex underdrawing method had been specified, comprising the installation of timber battens, non-combustible mineral wool insulation and a separate soffit insulation over the top. Installation would be extremely labour-intensive, so Horbury Building Systems consulted Knauf Insulation about whether it could provide an alternative that would meet the thermal performance and fire safety requirements, but also be easy to install. Knauf Insulation’s Technical Support Team reviewed the specification and recommended 185mm Rocksilk® Soffit Linerboard Extra to achieve the required 0.18 W/m2K U-value.  Rocksilk® Soffit Linerboard Extra is a Rock Mineral Wool insulation slab bonded to a 6mm off-white weather resistant facing board which provides a two-in-one aesthetic and thermal solution. It has a low thermal conductivity of just 0.034 W/mK and is designed for use as an insulated underlining solution in semi-exposed environments. The off-white cementitious particle board reflects light which makes it ideally suited for use in car parks. As well as thermal performance, Rocksilk® Soffit Linerboard Extra is non-combustible. It has the best possible Euroclass A1 reaction to fire classification, so it will not contribute to the development or spread of a fire should it occur. This is important because car parks can contain large quantities of a potential propellant – petrol. So the insulation will help to ensure the fire safety of the rest of the building.   Rocksilk® Soffit Linerboard Extra also has good sound absorption characteristics so it provides high levels of sound reduction. This reduces noise from the car park, minimising disruption for the people living and working in the premises above. As well as meeting the specification, Rocksilk® Soffit Linerboard Extra has been enhanced to add rigidity and is easy to install. The board is simply placed onto the concrete soffit and fixed into position with five drillscrews. This reduced the installation method from three separate phases to just one, saving Horbury Building Systems time and associated labour costs. Stephen Hampshire, Contracts Manager at Horbury Building Systems said: “We found the panels easy to install. Firstly, we marked and drilled the fixing points at bench level. Next, we held the panels in place to the underside of the concrete – although the panels are lightweight ‘this is a two-handed operation’ – then we drilled through and fixed.”  “We took care in lining the panels together when installing it against the soffit and with some minor tweaking up and down we got a nice flush finish.” Being able to align the panels exactly is not only important for ensuring a good finish. It also means that the slabs will butt tightly together, reducing unintended air gaps which can reduce thermal, fire safety and acoustic performance.  The insulation was supplied to the Middlewood Locks construction site by distributor Galaxy Insulation.  Thanks to Knauf Insulation’s Rocksilk® Soffit Linerboard Extra, the underlining of the car park at Middlewood Locks was easy to install, is aesthetically pleasing, and provides complete thermal, fire safety and acoustic performance.

The Lantern is the result of a wholesale redevelopment and reimagining of a large eight story building in Euston, Central London. Developer owners Lazari Investments have worked with Marks Barfield Architects to create a stunning scheme which successfully meets the current desire for built inner city environments to offer contemporary and elegant work space alongside areas designed for leisure, relaxation and retail therapy.Rockfon were very pleased to be specified for the project which offers 23,000m2 of mixed-use space including offices, café’s, shops and apartments. In addition there are large terraces and gardens on almost every level.The elegant solution to unwanted noiseAround 850m2 of unique Rockfon Mono Acoustic has been installed throughout communal areas, lobbies, thoroughfares and café’s throughout the building to deliver elegant sound control where the use of reverberant materials such as glass, stone, concrete and steel, added to high foot-fall would result in unwanted noise.8build were principle contractors for the scheme with Pacy & Wheatley Acoustics being responsible for the installation of Mono Acoustic systems. David Booth of the specialist firm spoke about the project, “We are proud of the work we’ve carried out at The Lantern, which presented a number of challenges associated with the myriad of services and fittings which go to make-up sophisticated contemporary mixed-use architecture. “The grid work and Mono Acoustic were installed to a wide variety of abutments in spaces throughout the building including within the large atrium, working around the many finishes and fire curtains to the front face of the lobby and glazed screens to either end. Fitting the ceiling to accommodate a stunning feature Italian light fitting suspended from 130 rods fixed to the structural slab called for exacting tolerances and really demonstrated the system’s versatility.”Seamless performanceMono is a ground-breaking product which combines a seamless ceiling with high performance characteristics. Ceiling tiles are installed and completed with acoustic render creating a smooth, monolithic surface which not only offers high sound absorption but also provides high light reflection and light diffusion, reducing the need for artificial light.The system allows for incorporation of lighting, audio and other mechanical systems whilst delivering Class A2 fire protection. It also offers dimensionally stability at up to 100% relative humidity and can be installed in temperatures ranging from 0˚C to 40˚C.Fully recyclable, all Rockfon ranges are made from a core of naturally occurring, non-hygroscopic and non-combustible stone wool. Their surfaces provide no sustenance to harmful micro-organisms, embody high humidity resistance and are impervious to most environmental pressures. With blue chip corporates including Fujitsu, Siemens and Bauer Media occupying space within the development, attention to detail was vital in helping create the perfect setting, which is known to aid productivity while contributing to employee wellbeing and retention. Acoustic control is also vital within places where people dine, with research showing customers are less likely to return to noisy restaurants. Commitment to wellbeingRockfon Specification Manager Alan Davies talks about the brand’s commitment to the sound control and wellbeing, “We are proud to be among a growing number of manufacturers to have its products assessed by Quiet Mark – the independent global certification programme associated with the UK Noise Abatement Society charitable foundation. Its international award programme recognises excellence in low-noise products, technology and solutions to unwanted noise - visit www.quietmark.com

An important refinement for a single story extensionThe ChallengeThe homeowner knew that in order to maximise that amount natural sunlight for their single storey extension that the addition of rooflights would be an ideal solution, but with an important refinement.The solutionIn order to provide the maximum amount of light we designed a bespoke low-profile pyramid rooflight with blue tinted glass this ensured that the Rooflight gave another dimension to their single storey extension.They now enjoy natural light which gives a greater feeling of space and light, combined with fully glazed floor to ceiling doors meant they were also able to enjoy to views and access to their garden space. Whether you’re at planning or construction stage why not see how we could help you add natural light and space to your home project; you can call us on 01223 792244 or pop us an email via info@nextgenrooflights.co.uk outlining what help you need.

In the pursuit of creating inviting and durable outdoor spaces, the recent resin bound paving project at David Lloyd, Rugby, stands out as a testament to innovation and aesthetic appeal.Here we delve into the details, highlighting the challenges, solutions, and the stunning results achieved.PROJECT OVERVIEWSector: Fitness and LeisureLocation: Houghton, RugbyProduct: Resin Bound PavingColour: Oyster Pearl & CappuccinoRESULTSVisually StunningThe resin bound surface provides a sleek and modernappearance, contributing to the overall appeal of thenew leisure facility.DurabilityThe high-quality materials used ensure the longevity of thepaving, even under heavy usage and varying weatherconditions.Low MaintenanceThe easy-to-clean surface minuses maintenance requirements, allowing staff to focus on the memberexperience.SafetyThe slip-resistant nature of resin bound surfacing enhancesthe safety for members, particularly during wet conditions.Download PDF case study

Kestrel Court is a bespoke development of nine apartments, comprising of one 3 bedroom and eight 2 bedroom high specification properties. Offering tree lined views, off street parking and private gardens, the development is nestled near Ewell Village, granting easy access to shops and restaurants. Its prime location provides A3 access to the M25 and trains to London. Also nearby is Bourne Hall, which features a library, theatre, museum, and various amenities, and Nonsuch Park, an English Heritage-listed historic park.Cellecta’s DECKfon Batten 70 was specified by 1929 Architects as they have been rigorously tested and are Robust Detail complaint for steel, concrete and timber separating floor applications. The battens consist of a layer of recycled, low resonance, open cell, flexible polyurethane foam bonded to an FSC/PEFC certified timber batten.Turnbull Homes were supplied 500m² of Cellecta products for this development in Epsom.

Pembroke House is an assisted living home located in Camberley. The home had a conversion of the second and third floors and construction of a 2 story roof extension to provide 116 affordable apartments, as well as 20 in a dedicated dementia suite. Facilities include a private dining room, lounge areas, restaurant, cinema, library, café, spa bathroom, bistro, library, beauty salon and activities room. Located in the city centre, the building has underground parking, garden terraces on the 4th Floor, and a porte cochere providing outdoor space for residents to enjoy.Cellecta’s DECKfon Batten 70 was specified by PRP Architects as they have been rigorously tested and are robust detail complaint for steel, concrete and timber separating floor applications. The battens consist of a layer of recycled, low resonance, open cell, flexible polyurethane foam bonded to an FSC/PEFC certified timber batten.Wates Construction was awarded this 2,880m² contract to construct this development in Surrey.

Accoya cladding supplied by International TimberArmadilla create luxury experiential garden buildings. They currently focus on two core markets, hospitality and education, providing a self-contained environment for the users. Armadilla offer a smaller ‘Pod’ or the larger ‘Wave’ design but both options are ‘eco smart’, meeting the sustainability ethos of Armadilla.The garden buildings meet industry-leading insulation standards, have low energy air source heat pump technology and mechanical ventilation heat recovery. The smaller design, The Pod, can run off a one 13 amp electricity source.By endorsing the concept of the ‘Circular Economy’, all elements of Armadilla products can be recycled, repaired or reused. This is why Accoya is the perfect material choice for the external cladding, with a 50 year warranty. Accoya is a new introduction for Armadilla, justifying their product as world-leading for its sustainability and durability.Armadilla were awarded the 2020 Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Innovation.

Addagrip Addaset BBA resin bound surfacing has recently been installed in this street scheme as part of the redevelopment of the Bull Yard area in Coventry City Centre.The £2million redevelopment of the site, close to the Wave, included the requirement for a seamless paving solution that would be hard wearing and offer a safe, slip resistant, low maintenance porous surface for this busy retail area.The existing surfacing consisted of old asphalt and paved areas. Addagrip Terraco approved contractor Total Protection transformed the area with 1,770m2 of BBA approved Addaset resin bound porous surfacing in a Hazelnut blend to create seamless pedestrian areas alongside the water feature and children’s play area.The finished project enhances what is seen as a key arrival point into the city from Coventry railway station.Work commenced early 2020 but the planned April finish date was set back due to Covid-19 and was eventually completed in August 2020.

Battersea Dogs & Cats Home was established in 1860 by Mary Tealby as the Temporary Home for Lost and Starving Dogs. Since it opened, the charity has cared for more than 3.1 million dogs and cats. To increase capacity at their old Windsor site BDCH are adding a new wing.The animal charity required specialist doors for a new intake building which includes 27 kennels and 4 maternity kennels.Dortek supplied hygienic hinged doors with Stainless Steel frames throughout the new building. Some doors also had automations and access control locks for ease of access and increased security. Fire doors with 30 minutes certification were also supplied for the protection of animals and staff throughout the facility.The GRP construction of Dortek doors makes them easy to clean, waterproof and extremely robust. They are ideally suited to animal care facilities requiring a low maintenance design.

Turning a roofscape into a power station just got better. The combination of GreenCoat PLX with integrated, almost invisible solar functions to deliver green energy and good looks. The solar modules are bonded directly onto the metal roof within the controls of a factory environment at Metal Solutions Ltd, Bolton. Lightweight and maintenance free with no access requirements for cleaning the solution is a real game changer. Each module is 358mm wide and sits between the Snaplock® standing seam profile. In harmony with GreenCoat Mountain Grey the solar modules are virtually invisible from the street. A traditional Glass Crystalline module would add substantial weight, wind sheer load on the standing seam fixings and require access for bi-annual cleaning with the then risk of damage during that process.The thin, flexible solar modules do not detract from the design of the house and offer an excellent yield even in low light conditions.

Multiple, shrouded, wash troughs for 'airside' staff washrooms were provided as well as [DDA compliant] V216 HCP wash hand basins located in all accessible washroom cubicles.Following a very specific design brief, the purpose made wash troughs were produced in order to meet the dual needs of a specific aesthetic appearance but also high durability. The heavily used airside washroom facilities are required to remain in full working order on a continuous 24 hour basis and so any possible cause of wear or tear must be minimised. By choosing the durable medium of stainless steel and also then fully enclosing pipework and services, a highly durable professional and hygienic environment is created for its users.The V216 HCP has an ultra low profile to facilitate wheelchair access. Pipework is also fully concealed.All units were produced in EN 1.4301 grade brushed satin stainless steel.

The Creative Centre at York St John University represents an evolutionary step in educational architecture, mirroring the institution’s commitment to fostering innovation, creativity, and community engagement.By integrating cutting-edge sustainable technologies and materials, the centre not only minimizes its environmental impact but also serves as an inspiring example of how modern design can contribute to the well-being of both the planet and its inhabitants.The facility’s versatile spaces encourage interdisciplinary collaboration, enabling students and faculty to explore new frontiers in arts and education. This architectural gem not only enhances the university’s landscape but also strengthens its ties with the local community, inviting public participation in a range of cultural and educational events.As a symbol of York St John University’s forward-thinking ethos, the Creative Centre is poised to shape the future of creative education, making it a cornerstone of both the university and the wider society.Three main concepts formed the foundation of the design approach. First, it is a genuinely sustainable building, both in operational and embodied carbon terms, with a substantial timber frame and simple climate control. Second, the main atrium space unites all the building elements together, reflecting the latest thinking in higher education to create ‘third spaces’ for cross-disciplinary collaboration.Finally, the Centre makes the most of its proximity to York Minster connecting the University to the heritage of the surrounding city. Throughout the atrium, recital hall and critical listening room, views to the Minster are carefully framed, reinforcing this picturesque view across the stunning historic site.Low embodied carbon materials, such as glulam and CLT and SIPS were used for the construction of the Centre, as part of a ‘fabric-first’ approach using Passivhaus principles to achieve a BREEAM Excellent rating.Working alongside environmental design consultant Atelier Ten, the project’s eco credentials were achieved by using triple-glazing, making the building air tight, providing simple operation systems – such as openable windows – and a mixed mode ventilation system with both mechanical and natural ventilation in teaching rooms.The building is extremely functional and flexible, for example the 2,000m2 of teaching space are column-free internally with modular servicing to allow easy re-configuration in the future should the university’s requirements change. The 180 capacity auditorium was designed with SSV Theatre Consultants to facilitate teaching as well as performances, with a level access technical level. And the building connects to the natural environment through its use of natural materials and integration with a campus wide landscape masterplan.

Elevating Urban Living at Southbank Tower.Southbank Tower, standing tall at 41 storeys, is a symbol of inspired urban living in London’s Southwark district. The transformation of this iconic tower, originally designed by Richard Seifert in 1972, has been a collaborative effort to create a world-class mixed-use development, enhancing the public realm and providing a unique address moments from the River Thames.Project Transformation:Architectural Redesign:Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF) spearheaded a major redesign, adding 11 stories to the tower and converting upper floors into residential units.Three new floors were added to the podium, and original 1970’s cores were replaced and repositioned.The redesign included the creation of a new route through the scheme, doubling retail space, and adding valuable public areas along the riverfront.Sustainability Measures:The new construction introduced sustainability measures, including a highly-effective heat recovery system and low-energy lighting systems.Future-proofing the building with space for links to district heating and cooling schemes.Southbank Tower’s Features:Mixed-Use Tower:199 residences, 217,000 sq.ft. of office space, and 52,000 sq. ft of retail space.Private residential roof garden spanning 10,000 sq.ft and an exquisitely designed atrium.Design Collaboration:Design studios, including Goddard Littlefair, Studio Ashby, Johnson Naylor, and 1508 London, played a key role in shaping the aesthetics of the tower.The Black Edition Apartments:Interior Design Excellence:Leading interior designers, Studio Ashby and Johnson Naylor, designed the Black Edition apartments.Duplex and lateral apartments designed by Dara Huang of Design Haus Liberty and 1508 London.Selo Doors played a pivotal role in enhancing the functionality and aesthetics of Southbank Tower by providing concealed metal riser doors and sliding pocket doors. The bespoke door solutions align with the tower’s commitment to a modern, space-saving, and fire-rated environment. These doors seamlessly integrate into the architectural design, offering a flush and concealed appearance while optimizing space.Southbank Tower’s transformation is not only a testament to architectural innovation but also a reflection of collaborative efforts to create a vibrant urban living experience. Selo Doors’ contribution, through concealed metal riser doors and sliding pocket doors, adds a layer of sophistication, safety, and space optimization to this iconic development. Southbank Tower stands as a landmark in London’s skyline, representing the successful convergence of design, sustainability, and urban regeneration.

Salamander Street is a mid-market rent initiative that provides high quality affordable homes in the heart of Leith, Edinburgh. It comprises 199 flats and maisonettes across six storeys of accommodation, constructed over a basement car park.It was designed by 7N Architects, which specified Knauf Insulation’s 50mm Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab to insulate the ventilated façade. They chose this product because it met the brief’s two critical performance factors: thermal performance and fire safety.It is a Rock Mineral Wool insulation slab with a thermal conductivity of 0.034W/mK, so it delivers the required U-value of 0.16 W/m2K. It is non-combustible with the best possible Euroclass A1 reaction to fire classification and is BBA certified for use in a wide range of build-ups in high rise buildings. This means it complies with Building Regulations in Scotland that restrict the use of combustible materials on most buildings over 11m.The Salamander Street development was overseen by main contractor Cruden Building East with sub-contractor Soundtex responsible for installing the insulation.It was constructed using an Ancon Brick Restraint System. Ancon has undertaken independent third-party tests to demonstrate that its restraint system does not require a compression sleeve when used in conjunction with Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab under 180mm thick. This provided a huge saving in labour costs for Soundtex as fasteners are usually inserted into compression sleeves by hand.Throughout the build, Knauf Insulation’s Specification Team attended regular project meetings and conducted site visits to check the quality and progress of installation. Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab is optimised for ease of installation and improved robustness, making it easy to manoeuvre into position. At Salamander Street, the Specification Team noted the uniformity of installation and perfectly staggered joints. This is important because it ensures there are no gaps, which could reduce thermal and acoustic performance – a common issue with rigid foam board insulation.Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab is manufactured with ECOSE® Technology, Knauf Insulation's unique bio-based binder that contains no added formaldehyde or phenol. It is made from natural raw materials that are rapidly renewable and is 70% less energy-intensive to manufacture than traditional binders, so it is more environmentally friendly.Products made with ECOSE® Technology are soft to touch and easy to handle. They generate low levels of dust and VOCs and have been awarded the Eurofins Gold Certificate for Indoor Air Comfort.The Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab insulation was installed in conjunction with Knauf Windliner sheathing board for maximum performance.Thanks to Knauf Insulation, the residents of Salamander Street will enjoy warm, cosy homes that meet the highest standards of fire safety.

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