"natural floor coverings"

Appointed to design Hammerson House, Wohl Campus, a new care building, P+HS Architects specified a variety of solutions from Forbo Flooring Systems’ large portfolio, to help bring the vision of a country house hotel to life. Offering 116 bedrooms, with communal lounges, a café, and an inter-generational activity room, Forbo’s Surestep, Safestep and Allura ranges have been installed throughout the building.Hammerson House was founded in 1961 by Sue Hammerson to provide care for older members of the Jewish community. From here Hammerson merged with Nightingale House to form Nightingale Hammerson who run both homes as a joint group. Located on the Wohl Campus near Hampstead Heath, the home is based within beautiful woodlands enabling residents to enjoy the local scenery. Offering medical services, including a visiting GP, a large communal hall, an onsite shop and a hair salon, the care home is able to provide for all of its residents’ needs.Martha MacKinnon, Senior Architect at P+HS commented on the project: “We were tasked with creating a welcoming space that delivered a contemporary vision of a country house hotel, where visitors, residents and staff could feel settled. Therefore, when it came to specifying floor coverings, we had to carefully choose products that could contribute to the warm and welcoming interior we wanted to achieve.“In the resident’s area, on the lower ground floor, it was important that we specified a vinyl flooring, as it needed to be durable, but also provide a warm and homely feel. Additionally, a low-level contrast between the carpeted areas and the vinyl flooring in the bedrooms was also vital, as some of the residents living at the home have dementia.”With the above in mind, and to connect the building back to its countryside roots, P+HS Architects specified Forbo’s Allura LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tiles) in the natural looking Steamed Oak colourway “The wooden aesthetic of Forbo’s Allura really helped us to connect the indoors to the outside, whilst contributing to our design brief, thanks to its warm shades. We mainly used Allura in the household and staff dining areas, and the lower ground floor bedrooms,” Martha explained. “Not only this, but the chosen Allura design has also been accredited by the DSDC (Dementia Services Development Centre), which means it has been approved for use in dementia-friendly environments, making it the perfect choice for this project.“In the areas where spillages are to be expected and therefore slip resistance was a factor, such as in kitchens and the residents’ ensuites, we specified Forbo’s Surestep and Safestep safety flooring. Both ranges deliver guaranteed lifetime slip resistance and are available in a variety of bright, contemporary designs.”Forbo’s Step safety flooring collection meets all the European and HSE safety norms, delivering safety with minimal compromise on cleaning and maintenance, thanks to its PUR Pearl finish, and design.Sara Glaser, Head of Marketing from Nightingale Hammerson spoke about the finished project: “We’re delighted with the work P+HS has done; it looks lovely and really fits the design we had wanted to achieve. We’re particularly happy with how safety conscious it is, as our residents are our primary concern. They like the house and how it looks, so we couldn’t be happier with the end result!”Finished at the start of 2021, Hammerson House, Wohl Campus recently achieved a rating of ‘Good’ from a CQC inspection of the home. Additionally, the building was awarded the Best Social Care development at the Building Better Healthcare Awards 2021 and ‘Commended’ in the Forbo Escapes 2021/22 competition.

FORBO’S PORTFOLIO HELPS CONNECT RURAL UNIVERSITY TO COUNTRYSIDE ROOTS Situated in the countryside near Milton Keynes, Cranfield University recently added five new blocks, including a new central hub for the students, to its campus. As the communal area was the standout aspect of the project, Magna Designs Interiors utilised Forbo Flooring Systems’ Flotex planks and Allura Flex luxury vinyl tiles to help connect the university to its countryside heritage. Speaking about the project, Emma Barnes, Interior Designer at Magna Designs Interiors, said: “While the five new blocks were a new part of campus, the university didn’t want them to stand out too much from the existing buildings. Everything had to fit in and look like it belonged, whilst still having a contemporary feel. I worked with the contractor Watkins-Jones to form a basic design idea and then we got to work. The brief the client gave to me was for a modern space, one that gave a nod to the nature around them but also prioritised comfort.” Magna Designs Interiors went with what Emma described as a soft industrial design with exposed pipework in the ceiling and metal framework detailing, but then opted for something to slightly soften that look for the flooring: “We needed something that was comfortable but also hard-wearing and Forbo’s Flotex ticks both those boxes. It almost doesn’t look like a textile floor covering, especially with the designs we used for the project, but it provides great underfoot comfort. We went with this soft industrial look in the communal area, using Flotex Concrete in the Storm and Cloud colourways. This provided a really neutral look. While we combined the Storm and Cloud colourways to break up the design, I knew I wanted to mix this up even further.  “It’s for this reason that I also used Flotex by Starck. It has this nice neutral base which fits with the soft industrial theme, but then transitions from the base grey shade to a crazy and colourful pattern, which I really enjoyed. I’ve worked with Flotex before as it’s been around for years now, but it’s exciting to see how Forbo has reinvented it with their new designs, especially with their designer ranges like Flotex by Starck.” Alongside creating a comfortable and homely feel, Emma was also tasked with giving a nod to the open green spaces that surround the campus. She commented: “We wanted to link the project back to nature, as the university is situated in this beautiful, peaceful countryside area. I used Forbo’s Allura Flex planks in the areas where students could sit together on these sofas, which had earthy tones like browns and greens. It really brought the outside in and we felt it grounded the place in nature, which the campus obviously is! The Allura Flex planks have this lovely wood grain look, which fit in with the overall design but also helped to break up the greys of the Flotex tiles. I even used bark from the surrounding trees on some of the walls, which linked in with the grain of the planks.” Conscious that sustainability is high on many specifier’s agendas, this was another reason behind the specification of Flotex. Flotex is made using 100% renewable energy and the normal Flotex planks are made of 49% recycled content by weight, making it a good sustainable choice. Allura Flex is also made using all renewable energy and contains 24% recycled content by weight. What’s more, both ranges have a long-life cycle – key for education design, where products are needed that can survive for many years with minimal maintenance or upkeep. Emma concluded: “I’m really happy with how the place looks; I feel we definitely captured the essence of what was requested. Everything came together very nicely, and I cannot recommend Forbo highly enough. Elizabeth Bushell, the Account Manager I worked with, was so helpful and had some constructive ideas, suggesting products for me to use. I’m still hearing good reports about the new student central hub now, a year on from completion of that area of the project, so it’s stood the test of time so far!” The final handover of the project was completed in April 2022, but the communal area was completed over a year ago. Magna Designs Interiors’ work on the communal student hub saw them win ‘Highly Commended’ at Forbo Flooring Systems’ 2021/2022 Forbo Escapes competition.All images were produced by Cranfield University  For more information about Forbo’s solutions for the education sector, visit www.forbo-flooring.co.uk/education or to enter the 2022/23 Forbo Escapes competition, visit www.forbo-flooring.co.uk/forboescapes

Surespan recently travelled to Lithuania to manufacture and supply a floor hatch to enable Finnish energy company Fortum to access their biomass pit at their new energy plant.The 5000 x 5000 mm hydraulically operated, the double-leaf hatch was designed to be easily operated by an electrically driven pump power pack. Fortum wanted the simplest operation for a grab crane to gain easy access to the biomass plant so Surespan worked with engineering consultants AF Consult to come up with an effective solution.

Wellness, sport and relaxation are the soul of this wellness hotel in Austria, built as if a huge sail immersed in the alpine landscape and equipped with the most sought-after luxuries. 5000 m² of the surface is covered with the Trust collection in Ivory and Gold, of various sizes on floors and on walls in the suites and thermal area.The ceramic tiles, inspired by natural stones are Ecolabel certified and create a harmonious balance between the surrounding landscape and the resort itself, an interchange of sensations that absorbs guests into a new dimension where respect for the environment and the eco-system are values are of the utmost importance.

Ascent Rooflight Covers were specified by Eurosafe Solutions as part of a Safe Access strategy to allow maintenance personnel to frequently access the roof areas to undertake Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) works at an office / warehousing premises in Orgreave, Sheffield. The Ascent Rooflight covers are a freestanding unit that sits above the potential fall hazard of the glazed rooflight. Formed from an angular aluminium framework with mesh infill the rooflight covers do not overly restrict light penetrating the rooflight. The Rooflight covers are supported on small spreader plates which provide a non-penetrative support solution on the flat felt roof. The Ascent Rooflight covers are testing in accordance with ACR(M) 001:2014 Test for Non-fragility of Large Element Roofing Assemblies (fifth element) and manufactured following 1090 factory production control procedures allowing CE/UKCA marking as required with all Safety critical components as per the Construction Product regulations 2022  

Minimising disruption for patients, staff and visitors was a priority for the University Hospital of North Tees team, responsible for the refurbishment of a vast area of new flooring in the hospital’s main public corridors. As such, Forbo Flooring Systems supplied its adhesive-free Modul’up Compact sheet vinyl – a resilient flooring solution that was easy to install and could be walked on immediately after installation. Built in the 1960s, the hospital in Stockton has seen much maintenance over the years and visually, had become dated. Therefore, the aim of the refurbishment was to bring the hospital interior into this century to create a more pleasant and comfortable environment for everyone. As well as speed of installation, the hospital team’s specification priorities were cleanliness and hygiene, especially as these main corridor routes lead on to clinical areas. But also, the spaces experience high footfall and are tested to the limit with heavy medical equipment and trolleys being moved around; the flooring had to perform well in terms of durability. “We were looking for something different and when our Forbo Area Manager, Jon Rogers, put forward the Modul’up solution, we identified a few advantages that appealed immediately,” explains the Project Manager for the University Hospital of North Tees, Michael Jones. “Firstly, speed of installation. It’s a vast area of flooring to cover. In fact, we’ve not done an area this size before, all at once. As you can imagine, we were apprehensive with it being such a dynamic environment. It’s hard to co-ordinate one installation let alone having to snag or worse re-lay. We liked the fact that Modul’up is tried and tested to meet all the current standards, but is also much easier to install and is easy to clean. “Secondly, from a subfloor maintenance angle we saw great benefits. The building was constructed in the 1960s, so in certain areas from time to time there are repairs to be done to the subfloor beneath. “With Modul’up you can cut the weld, roll back, fix the floor and re-lay with no patching required. If you have subfloor issues with normal vinyl floor you would have to lift it with the adhesive. This often causes damage to the vinyl and if patching is required then potentially you don’t get a match.” Phase One of the project involved the installation of 1,573m2 of Forbo’s Modul’up Compact in Natural Oak in the general circulation areas and corridors. Creating a fresh, contemporary and airy feel, the wood-effect flooring has been selected to complement the corridor walls, which feature a split wall colour scheme with the lower half painted in a strong, modern graphite grey and the top half in a lighter, almost white, grey.  Also commenting on the specification, Drew McColgan, managing director of Rimick Flooring, the installer, said: “We have worked with the hospital for 15 plus years. The building is old and we often have issues with the subfloor; installing a loose lay product makes it easier for us to access the subfloors for repair without having to patch the vinyl back. It was also quicker for us to install in an environment where time is of the essence. The client is delighted with the appearance of the vinyl too.” The hospital team, Rimick Flooring and Forbo worked together to ensure a smooth install as Drew explains: “Forbo came to visit the site a number of times to meet with us and the client. They attended meetings with screed representatives too and provided expert support throughout with samples aplenty; including a decent sized part roll so the fitting team could familiarise themselves with the product. Jon Rogers, and the customer support team (particularly Jason Livingstone) were there to help us every step of the way.” Drew talks through the installation process and hints at the longer-term benefits: “During the night shifts, the team lifted the existing linoleum, screeded the existing surfaces using a non-ammonium smoothing compound and fit (with set-in skirting detail) from there. Modul’up helped us to save approximately an hour a night, “Going forward, there’s no need to patch areas should there be a problem with the subfloor, and it negates the need to use an adhesive, which is good as it’s odour free and means the floor can be used immediately.”  Providing primary protection at the main entrances, Forbo’s Nuway and Coral entrance flooring systems have been installed too – helping to prevent dirt and moisture from being traipsed indoors. Forbo’s new Coral interior was also installed to complete the hospital entrance flooring system. Looking ahead, Michael Jones, University Hospital of North Tees Project Manager concludes: “So far, we’re impressed with Modul’up. There are other buildings on site which now may also be considered to be refreshed with this loose lay product.”

Fletcher Rae's new studio workspace exemplifies the company's own approach to work - open, welcome, flexible and creative. This office environment demonstrates the flexibility of Milliken modular floor coverings. Triangular Path carpet tiles, from the Clerkenwell design collection, are installed to dramatic effect throughout the open space while Culture Canvas's luxurious textural tiles add a new dimension the meeting spaces. Rootwork luxury vinyl tiles from the Change Agent collection provide a natural wood aesthetic to the kitchen area providing a high performance, easy to maintain flooring solution. The products' design, comfort and acoustic performance deliver some important well-being benefits to this calm and productive workspace.

The Natural History Museum is protected by a network of cutting edge MxPro 5 fire panels from Advanced.Established in 1881 and renowned for its collections of life and earth specimens, London’s Natural History Museum is widely recognised as the pre-eminent centre for natural history and related research. The Museum is the third most popular in the United Kingdom and its irreplaceable 80 million strong collection is of global importance and includes numerous specimens collected by Charles Darwin.At the heart of the active fire protection for the Museum is a network of 24 MxPro 5, intelligent, multiprotocol panels, plus remote control terminals, BMS interface and a bespoke PC based graphical user interface. The network was designed, configured and commissioned by Pacific Security Systems, a long-time partner of Advanced.

Integrating over two thousand employees from across Dublin into one location, Microsofts new offices take on a human-centric form. Covering 33,000 sq m of floor space the new development connects employees from over seventy two different nationalities. Using both Aluprof MB-SR50N capped curtain wall and MB-SR50N EFEKT capless curtain wall systems the project achieves the architectural performance and aesthetics desired. Providing the building users with exceptional natural daylight. Architect: RKD Architects Main Contractor: BAM

The frontage of the Ocean Terminal shopping centre in Edinburgh has received a radical makeover as part of a major investment to increase footfall by enhancing the visitor experience. The extension has been covered with STEREO-KINETIC cladding; hundreds of freely-moving stainless steel sheets suspended from grating panels. Gusts of wind, traffic, even people walking by cause the metal rectangles to ripple in an ever-changing display. The kinetic artwork has been designed in such a way as to allow the passage of natural daylight through the underlying window openings on the second floor level.

FORBO FLOORING SYSTEMS’ ALLURA DECIBEL AIDS IN CREATION OF DESTINATION OFFICE After over a decade of operation, 299 Lighting decided it was time to invest in a new office space, creating a destination office for its team of lighting engineers. Tasked with revamping a 90-year-old building for this purpose, interior designers Fable and Form looked to Forbo Flooring Systems’ Allura Decibel and Furniture Linoleum ranges to reduce impact noise, as well as providing a warm and friendly finish throughout the office. A former industrial unit that was converted into a bakery in 1946, Cadena House got its name from the Cadena Cafes brand, and has been used for a variety of purposes over the years. 299 Lighting spotted the potential the old building had and purchased it in December 2020, with the view to renovate it completely, reimagining the space into a new team orientated office.  Sara Barnett, Co-founder and Director at Fable and Form, commented on the design brief she received, saying: “299 Lighting wanted to strip back the building to its shell, with the view to maximise the sustainable solutions that could be added to it. With this in mind, they asked for our help to uncover the full potential of the space, as they realised engaging in the design process early would mean their imaginations could be successfully realised.  “When looking at the aesthetic requirements of the design, we took inspiration from 299 Lighting’s branding; balancing the bold and fresh company brand, with the nurturing and supportive attributes of the co-founders. This helped to create an environment which is truly unique and innovative – just like them!” The wellbeing of staff was also paramount to 299 Lighting. With this in mind, Fable and Form’s design team looked for materials that would fit the stripped back feel of the space, whilst also contributing to the biophilic design. Stevie Cleverly, Co-Founder and Director at Fable and Form explained further: “With the aim to create a sustainable and healthy space for 299 Lighting’s employees, it was important that we carefully selected the materials we used in this project. It was for this reason that we specified Forbo’s Allura Decibel Luxury Vinyl Tiles.” A unique proposition in the market, Forbo’s updated Allura Decibel collection meets the demand for stylish, luxury acoustic floor coverings no matter what the application area. Offering 19 dB impact sound reduction, the collection is available in 49 contemporary colourways, which are split between the following ranges: woods, and stones and materials. Stevie continued: “We specified Allura Decibel in a contemporary concrete colourway across the entire first floor for continuity. This decor was in keeping with the building’s original materials and matched the concrete ceilings, which were shot blasted to its original look. Not only this, but with a 19 dB impact sound reduction, unnecessary noise could be reduced in the office, helping to create a better space to work in. “In keeping with our sustainable design principles, we also included Forbo’s Furniture Linoleum into the meeting tables and breakout furniture, providing a warmer and more tactile finish to touch points.”  Forbo’s Furniture Linoleum is a natural surfacing material and has recently been confirmed to be climate positive (cradle to gate) without offsetting. In addition to this, it is antistatic – stopping the build-up of dust and fingerprints on surface tops.  Work on the building began in early 2021 and was finished in seven months, with 299 Lighting saying: “What we have achieved is even more than we envisaged would be possible.” Find out more about Forbo’s solutions for offices, here: www.forbo-flooring.co.uk/offices.

Troldtekt 100% wood wool acoustic panels have been used to dramatic effect at London’s famous Open Air Theatre in Regents Park. A newly-constructed rehearsal building, designed by architects Reed Watt, comprises a stunning double-height dance and rehearsal studio in its centre encircled by offices, kitchen and green room. Troldtekt wood wall panelling in natural grey also complement the natural setting while helping to dampen and keep reverberated sound to a minimum. The rehearsal studio has been acoustically rated so that the maximum noise level that can happen in the studio before being audible outside is 100dB.

The Valentinerhof hotel is located in the most spectacular mountain landscape of the world, close to the picturesque village of Siusi, an international tourism venue.The building, a wellness resort characterised by contemporary design and elegant atmospheres, was renovated in 2012 using Atlas Concorde ceramic materials that were chosen to clad indoor and outdoor floors, bathrooms and wellness areas.Used on outdoor floors, the Trust series covers the steps, swimming-pool edges and external areas of the spa, providing the opportunity to clad the surfaces with a continuous effect.The architectural project, which won the “2012 Sleep European Hotel Design Awards”, combines respect for the surrounding natural environment with the desire to create harmonious spaces where to regenerate body and soul.Thanks to its precious floor and wall ceramic collections Atlas Concorde consolidates its position as a partner of reference for hospitality design, contributing to the creation of welcoming and alluring atmospheres.

Linea23 is an architectural residential project designed by Studio Sigurtà in Desenzano del Garda, for which various Atlas Concorde porcelain tiles were chosen for the creation of ventilated walls, outdoor floors and walls.The Trust and Studio ceramic collections are the protagonists of the project and outer facades were covered using ventilated walls in which ceramic tiles create a gap that facilitates the circulation of air. The use of ventilated walls also leads to other advantages: the building is protected from moisture while indoor spaces are healthier and do not suffer from thermal shock.The Trust collection by Atlas Concorde, used for the outdoor floors and swimming-pool edges, evokes natural stone and allows for alluring residential venues both indoors and outdoors.The Linea23 project saw the use of various Atlas Concorde products for outdoor floors and walls. Particularly resistant to thermal shock, Atlas Concorde porcelain tiles are the perfect solution also as terrace flooring.

The crown line for the Herringbone E931 has been set out very well, however the floor has not been protected and the equipment has been left on the new floor.The actual floor will easily get damaged and the client will probably end up with a damaged floor and probably expensive repairs because of the lack of care.What should happen is that the floor should be covered at all times, and the site kept clean, with adhesive and other equipment kept off the new floor, that has been fitted

Sugar House Island's Cooperage Yard is part of a transformative project just south of Olympic Park intending to create a distinctive urban environment that has been carefully designed to create a balance between work, life and leisure.Set next to the Islands creative quarter, Cooperage Yard covers 8000ft2 over of the area. Its immediately recognisable sawtooth-shaped roof overlooks the river and courtyard. Natural light floods both floors of the building and a south-facing roof terrace offers further space for its inhabitants.Freshfield Lane's Danehill Yellow bricks are immediately recognisable and offer a positive contrast to the tones of other nearby brick buildings. The tones are further complimented by shafts of natural light that penetrate the pathways between buildings. When combined, the colour language and open space create a sense of optimism between the structures.

This stunning transformation to a modern industrial space has been designed with Milliken's Facet modular carpet in a range of greys and bright colours. In the vast open office area, Facet's asymmetric lines echo those of the building and delineate key functional zones. Hand Sketched from Milliken's Naturally Drawn design collection is installed throughout Seco's various meeting rooms delivering comfort and style.

Forbo Flooring Systems’ Marmoleum was the product of choice for a creative breakout space at investment management firm, Triple Point. With its growing headcount, Triple Point appointed AW Spaces to create an environment that could accommodate the company’s hybrid working strategy, whilst developing a light and warm aesthetic.  Founded in 2004, Triple Point employ 215 people and manage over £2.7 billion of private, institutional and public capital across five distinct investment strategies: Social Housing, Energy, Digital Infrastructure, Private Credit, and Venture. Each of these strategies helps to solve a problem society faces, and each one creates opportunities for investors.  With the company’s increased headcount and the new hybrid working strategy, AW Spaces suggested increasing the size of the breakout area available to employees. The aim was to make this area feel different from the working environment, by incorporating warmer colours with a dynamic flooring design.   Another important aspect for this project was the environmental impact. Lisa McLeod, Design Director at AW Spaces spoke on this, saying: “Sustainability was a big part of Triple Point’s brief. As such, when it came to choosing a floor covering for the space, the sustainability aspect led us to look at products such as Forbo’s Marmoleum. After discussing the sustainable flooring with Triple Point, where I also sent them a concept image of a design, we decided it was the perfect solution.  “Not only did Marmoleum fit the sustainability requirements, but it’s also available in a variety of contemporary designs that match in tone with each other, which allowed us to create a very dynamic space. Additionally, it’s a really nice material to work with, which aided the installation process.”   Forbo’s Marmoleum was specified in Terracotta, Titanium and Vintage Blue from the Marmoleum Walton range, and in Neptune Blue from Marmoleum Piano. Lisa commented on these choices, saying: “We chose these colours as they work beautifully together and coordinated with the joinery so it looked as though those elements rise from the ground. We also really liked the warmth of the Terracotta colourway and the brightness of Neptune Blue, which provided some contrast from eachother without looking disjointed from the joinery they connected to. The choice of colours really helped us to convey the feeling that this space was for relaxation rather than work, with all the colours flowing into one-another nicely.”  This refurbishment wasn’t like a typical installation as there were multiple different colourways which had to be combined in different shapes. As opposed to a typical refurbishment where tiles or sheet flooring is laid; this flooring had to be cut into shape in situ. The finished flooring mixes curved edges with sharp points, with all four colourways meeting towards the middle of the floor then flowing out at different angles around the room.  Lisa continued “The pattern was quite complex, so Forbo recommended an installer called Medifloor to us who could take on this challenge. We had worked with them on a couple of occasions before, so we knew they had the credentials, and they did a fantastic job with pinpoint accuracy!  “We’re absolutely delighted with the finished result and I’d say the breakout space remains my favourite part of the entire project.”  With a unique installation, a specialist approach had to be taken by installers, Medifloor. Jim Gordon, the Director of Medifloor, spoke on this, saying: “AW Spaces gave us this amazing design for Triple Point, which was extremely challenging to create with all the different curvatures. So, to achieve it we actually used computer aided templates which allowed us to cut the perfect curve – something that’s really hard to acheive in flooring.   “Forbo’s Marmoleum Walton was perfect for this, as it’s the only sheet flooring that lends itself to the natural materials used in this project and looks amazing when finished.”  With this method, a creative and dynamic flooring solution was created. With the installation starting in July 2022, Triple Point’s office refurbishment was finished in mid-September 2022 and has been well received by the staff who use it.  Luke Francois, Guest and Employee Experience Manager at Triple Point, concluded: “We asked AW Spaces to create a bright and inviting space, with a focus on using sustainable products and services, and Forbo’s Marmoleum ticked all the boxes for this. We’re happy with the end product delivered by AW, Medifloor and Forbo.” For more information about Forbo’s range of office products, visit: www.forbo-flooring.co.uk/offices  

As showcased on a recent episode of Channel 4’s Grand Designs, CUPA 12 natural slate has been specified for a spectacular new build project in Chichester. Selected to enhance the property’s modern aesthetic, the slate roof also complements the rural surroundings, which include a wildlife pond along with a variety of plant life. Property owners Daniel and Nina Rowland both work professionally within the construction sector; Daniel heads up architectural firm Studio Fuse, while Nina is an interior designer. Combining their skills, they decided the time was right to embark on a new adventure; leaving London to design and build their own home on the South Coast of England. They purchased a period property that happened to back onto a stagnant pond, which consisted of local drainage overflow. Daniel and Nina put together a design that would see the old house demolished and a new building constructed. Likewise, the pond was to be transformed into a crystal-clear natural swimming pond – a highly ambitious undertaking. Ideally, this would attract local wildlife, such as frogs, newts and sparrows, resulting in a beautiful waterside home. In terms of the design of the new-build property, the couple wanted the house to be eco-friendly and have a contemporary, spacious and natural aesthetic. It was to be built from structural insulated panels (SIPs) clad in Siberian larch and flint, with large glass windows. Timber decking would then connect the house to the natural swimming pond. When it came to the roofing, Daniel commented: “We considered using a standard seam metal roof but we went with slate to compliment the natural material palette we have used throughout the rest of the house.”Darren Stigant, Director at NJS Roofing, the roofing contractor on the project made the product recommendation: “Although this project looks quite simplistic, the different roof pitches added a certain amount of difficulty to aligning the mitred hips. Having sourced products from CUPA PIZARRAS many times in the past, I suggested the company’s CUPA 12 slate which was available in 400 x 250mm palettes. Utilising this smaller size, as opposed to the usual 500mm x 250mm, helped us to achieve the finish we required on the mitred hips.“I really like the way CUPA 12 lays, and it requires minimal sorting and grading, which simplifies the process significantly. What’s more, it’s very good value for money, providing a really impressive finish.”CUPA 12 is a non-carbonated slate that is formed by tectonic compression, giving the product a smooth, matt surface. The dark grey colour provided an effective contrast with the timber and glass. The CUPA 12 natural slate is also high performing with outstanding weather resistance, as it has been tested to achieve a water absorption rate of 0.11% and a rating of T1 in thermal cycle tests. Thus, making it a long-lasting product with a functional life expectancy of 100 years. What’s more, not only is CUPA PIZARRAS officially a carbon neutral company, but CUPA 12 has also been assessed and certified by BRE Global, solidifying itself as a sustainable choice and bolstering the environmental credentials of Daniel and Nina’s new home.  Kevin McCloud, presenter of Grand Designs commented: “This design joins together nature and architecture – in every sense it’s beautiful.”Daniel and Nina were delighted with the house and the CUPA PIZARRAS roof, “The slate is consistent in its appearance, which compliments a more modern build, but it still has a soft natural aesthetic. We are very happy with the finished roof and would highly recommend CUPA PIZARRAS slate to others. It is great quality, and our roofer loved working with it.”

IKO Polymeric, SIG Design & Technology, and Excel Roofing Services have collaborated to design, supply and install 250m2 of single ply roofing for the new kiosk, glass covered beach walkways and stores which houses the latest Oceanarium residents, ten Humboldt Penguins.

The Natural History Museum in London is a museum that exhibits a vast range of specimens from various segments of natural history. It is one of three major museums on Exhibition Road in South Kensington, the others being the Science Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum. The Natural History Museum's main frontage, however, is on Cromwell Road. The Natural History Museum in London stands as a revered institution, renowned for its priceless collections and historical significance. Ensuring the protection of both its artifacts and the safety of its visitors is of paramount importance. This case study highlights the successful collaboration between the Natural History Museum project and Rapid Access Ltd, a trusted supplier of Riser Doors equipped with Fire Door Keep Lock Shut Signs and advanced 3-Way Locking Systems, bolstering fire safety and security.Challenges:1. Fire Safety and Security: Preserving the museum's invaluable collections and ensuring the safety of its visitors demanded robust fire safety measures and enhanced security.2. Architectural Sensitivity: The project necessitated access solutions that respected the museum's architectural and historical significance, ensuring minimal disruption to its aesthetics.3. Advanced Locking Systems: The museum sought advanced security measures to protect against unauthorized access and potential threats.Solution:Rapid Access Ltd, known for their expertise in access solutions, was selected to address the specific requirements of the Natural History Museum project. The solution included the installation of Riser Doors featuring Fire Door Keep Lock Shut Signs and advanced 3-Way Locking Systems, designed to meet the following key criteria:1. Riser Doors: Rapid Access Ltd provided riser doors that seamlessly integrated with the museum's architecture while offering secure access to utility areas.2. Fire Door Keep Lock Shut Signs: Prominent signage was installed to ensure that fire doors remained locked shut when not in use, promoting fire safety awareness within the museum.3. 3-Way Locking Systems: Advanced locking systems were incorporated to provide an extra layer of security, protecting against unauthorized access and potential security threats.Implementation:The installation of Riser Doors with Fire Door Keep Lock Shut Signs and 3-Way Locking Systems by Rapid Access Ltd was carried out meticulously, ensuring that the security measures were seamlessly integrated into the museum's architectural framework.Conclusion:The collaboration between the Natural History Museum project and Rapid Access Ltd exemplified the successful integration of fire safety and security measures into a historically significant and culturally important institution. The installation of Riser Doors with Fire Door Keep Lock Shut Signs and 3-Way Locking Systems not only met the museum's fire safety and security needs but also preserved its architectural integrity. This case study underscores the importance of selecting the right access solutions provider for projects that require a sensitive and integrated approach to safety and security in a historical setting.

Inaugurated in 2012, the new headquarters of NedBank in Pretoria, South Africa, is a modern building with an avant-garde design that brings together different materials such as porcelain stoneware, wood, cement and glass.Designed by the Boogertman & Partners Architects studio, the structure has been designed to be a real service centre and point reference point for local financial institutions in the area. Its indoor areas have been covered using Trust technical porcelain stoneware series: the floors, clad in the Titanium colour using a multi-size installation with 40x60, 30x60 and 20x60 modules, finish the space off perfectly thanks to richness of details and natural stone effect surfaces.

The forming of a level threshold would be easy if the designer did not have to consider the prevention of damp ingress. The problem is a number of elements converge at a threshold, and when the threshold is required to be practically level, it can be difficult to bring together protective measures in a manner that promote integrated functionality and structural convenience. A different approach to forming level thresholds is offered by Cavity Trays Ltd. It literally and physically covers the problem. The Type LTT Level Threshold Tray is a three-dimensional preformed DPC that envelops opening masonry skins.

Sugar House Island‘s Cooperage Yard is part of a transformative project just south of Olympic Park intending to create a distinctive urban environment that has been carefully designed to create a balance between work, life and leisure. Designed by Waugh Thistleton Architects it offers a stunning riverside view to its users.Set next to the Islands creative quarter, Cooperage Yard covers 8000ft2 over of the area. Its immediately recognisable sawtooth-shaped roof overlooks the river and courtyard. Natural light floods both floors of the building and a south-facing roof terrace offers further space for its inhabitants.Freshfield Lane’s Danehill Yellow bricks are immediately recognisable and offer a positive contrast to the tones of other nearby brick buildings. The tones are further complimented by shafts of natural light that penetrate the pathways between buildings. When combined, the colour language and open space create a sense of optimism between the structures.

The Baitul Futuh Mosque (the House of Victories) is the largest Mosque complex in Europe with a capacity to accommodate 13,000 worshippers. Funded by members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, reconstruction was completed after a fire in September 2015. The five-floor redevelopment included new administration and assembly buildings with associated facilities and natural ventilation. It also includes multi-purpose halls, offices, and accommodation facilities for guests which include 12 private bedrooms and further dormitories, the associated works include sewer systems, landscaping, cable laying, infrastructure, enabling works, and access roads.Cellecta’s HiDECK Acoustic Overlay 28 was specified by John McAslan & Partners due to its highly conductive structural floorboard with rapid heat transfer characteristics enabling a more efficient under floor heating system. It also directly accepts all types of floor coverings, ensuring each apartment can be finished to the desired look.Ahmad Construction was awarded this 2,000m² contract to construct this historic redevelopment in South West London.

Project: Surespan custom-designed a hatch to provide access to a Biomass storage plant at the new Criminal Justice Centre, Northampton.Product: The double leaf hatch – measuring 2750mm x 2900mm – is electrically operated by a key switch and has synchronised leaf operation with a safety grid. Rated to FACTA Class A pedestrian loading, it was designed with a chequer plate lid to match the surround and incorporates a rain skirt apron and Sureguard handrail system on both sides. A secondary 1000mm x 1000mm gas spring-operated floor hatch was installed with a retractable hand hold and ladder for safe and easy access.

The vibrant colours of Forbo Flooring System's Marmoleum Modular portfolio led the interior designers HLW, to specify the floor covering to distinguish different working areas within London- based company, Neoworks. By creating an array of bright colours in an elaborate zigzag design, HLW has managed to produce a sophisticated but lively office interior.

In the picturesque Wachau Valley, among numerous vintage taverns and art galleries, lies the city of Krems an der Donau, an ancient town on the Danube that enjoys an exclusive natural landscape surrounded by greenery.A short walk from the city centre, nestled among the surrounding vineyards, the Steigenberger Hotel and Spa offers guests a warm welcome with a modern style where they can breathe in a calm ambiance with relaxing views of the old town of Krems or the Danube Valley. In this setting suspended somewhere between tradition and the search for contemporary style, the elegance and practicality of Atlas Concorde products stand out in some indoor areas of the building. Realism, simplicity, and technical performance: the strength of a natural material inspired by stone covers the walls of the rooms in a warm shade, creating a strong yet natural and welcoming atmosphere. Veins, shading, and inclusions of materials offer a contemporary design, creating a synergy between reliability and beauty. On the other hand, the interpretation of the concrete effect in a ceramic material creates the perfect background to experience moments of relaxation in the suites and the spa. Original decorations and elegant porcelain surfaces embellish these spaces, the floors and tiles interacting in perfect chromatic harmony.

Resilient 250 was installed as a Soft Floor Covering and bonded to the top of the concrete base. The acoustic underlay achieves the Approved Document E UK Building Regulations (The Resistance to the Passage of Sound) performance standards for Floor Type 1.Resilient 250 was bonded to the concrete base with the Sonixx SX900 adhesive in the living areas of 255 apartments. An 8mm PU foam underlay (Super 8) was loose laid over Resilient 250 and a Cavalier carpet stretch fitted on top.In the bathroom areas the Forbo Surestep Laguna vinyl was installed directly onto the Resilient 250 using F46 (Pressure Sensitive Acrylic Adhesive) from F. Ball and Co Ltd.Resilient 250 is a 2.5mm thick, high performing acoustic underlay manufactured using sponge rubber. It achieves an acoustic performance of 19 dB (ΔLw), significantly reducing the transmission of impact sound. It is a versatile underlay and can be used below various floor coverings including carpet, wood, laminate, luxury vinyl tiles, vinyl and ceramic / porcelain / natural stone tiles.The installers had nothing but positive feedback, on how quick and easy the underlay was to work with. At only 24 kg (43 lb) per roll, it is easy to distribute around site. The underlay therefore facilitated a simple, quick, clean and cost-effective installation.Features of Resilient 250:Extremely installer friendly; quick and simple to work with and easy to distribute around site.Ideal for use in Private Homes, Hospitality, Retail, Healthcare, Multi-Family Housing, Apartments and Hotels, Commercial developments, Care Homes, Schools and Education Projects.With a Thermal Resistance of 0.23 Togs, RS250 is excellent for use with underfloor heating systems.As it is manufactured from sponge rubber, it does not mark the walls unlike alternative rubber crumb underlays.Durable - provides long-lasting performance and will not deteriorate or collapse over time.Hygenic - naturally anti-microbial, anti-allergy and resistant to decay with low VOCs.

The world is focused on social distancing, safety and health; this latest project brings nature a little closer to help improve on all counts with socially distanced greenery. Leicester City Council’s urban environmental goals called upon the flexibility and experience of a rapid taskforce of installers from Hedera Screens to bring green elements across the City during lockdown and beyond.

This global technology company's office space is carpeted in, large scale pattern of Time Piece, from the iconic Clerkenwell modular carpet collection, created with Milliken's proprietary Millitron® digital design technology. The design has been installed to define the corridors and collaboration zones while Watercolour Lesson from the Naturally Drawn collection adds a sense of calm and comfort to formal work spaces.

Marketing Rooms and Apartments for the Wood Wharf Development in Canary Wharf. However they wanted a more select floor which we were able to do by supplying 20% to 25% more than required to create a stunning near virtual Prime Black American Walnut floor at a fraction of the cost.A lot of other trades were also completing work at the site including the fit out of show apartments for the Wood Wharf Development. This meant that the floor had to be covered to protect the surface.The product was our E515 which is a 15mm thick oiled walnut.

Birmingham New Street Station and the old Pallasades shopping centre has undergone a £600m redevelopment and has now become Grand Central Birmingham. Heavy duty movement joint covers were required for both the centre and its adjoining multi-storey car park to prevent damage due to excessive traffic. CS provided the heavy duty APF Series for the shopping centre’s interior. They are very strong against rolling loads as well as distortion and wear. The robust KB Series joint covers were provided for the multi-storey car park, featuring a unique centre plate with a 1000kg loading capacity.

Contour recently completed a project involving the supply and installation of 350 anti-ligature radiator covers across 15 mental health wards in Southeast England. The existing radiators posed a significant risk of harm to service users due to their outdated design. After inspecting a single ward, it was evident that all wards faced similar risks. Contour was tasked with surveying, supplying, and manufacturing anti-ligature radiator guards for each ward to ensure safety.The challenges faced by the customer included the absence of anti-ligature radiators, sharp corners posing threats, and cleanliness issues with old guards. To address these challenges, Contour installed a comprehensive range of anti-ligature covers designed to enhance safety and hygiene without compromising heating efficiency. The new covers featured small grilles and rounded edges to minimize risks and facilitate easier cleaning.The results were immediate improvements in safety and hygiene within the environments. The installed radiator guards featured IP3x grilles with 2mm holes, preventing ligature creation. Additionally, drop-down front access was incorporated for easier cleaning, and rounded corners provided enhanced protection. Overall, the project successfully mitigated risks and enhanced safety for service users in mental health environments.

For the refurbishment of Edinburgh College’s busiest campus, its FM team called upon Forbo Flooring Systems’ Modul’up adhesive free sheet vinyl for its unique ability to be installed quickly and easily, while reducing downtime and disruption to day-to-day college life – as the floor covering could be walked on immediately after installation.

Sonixx Resilient 250 was installed as an acoustic underlayment. It was bonded to the subfloor and a heterogenous vinyl and carpet tiles were installed on top. The installation was completed as part of a refurbishment to a bar and restaurant area within the hotel. Resilient 250 is a 2.5mm thick, high performing acoustic underlay manufactured using sponge rubber. It significantly reduces impact sound at the source, while also providing superb underfloor comfort. It is a versatile underlay and can be used below various floor coverings including carpet, carpet tiles, wood, laminate, luxury vinyl tiles, vinyl and ceramic / porcelain / natural stone tiles. At only 24kg (43 Ib) per roll, it is easy to distribute around site. Resilient 250 therefore facilitated a simple, quick, clean and cost-effective installation.