"office"

Westoe Crown Village by Taylor Wimpey is a development of 685 homes near South Shields, Newcastle. The coastal neighbourhood offers a range of apartments, three-storey townhouses and two-storey houses. Designed with the assistance of local community organisations to ensure an innovative and stimulating environment, Northumbria Police also assisted and advised on the best ways to reduce the potential of crime within the environment.Westoe Crown Village also introduced a village square, primary and nursery school, community centre, healthy living facility, shops and offices – all essential for a growing area of Newcastle. The centre of the village was also designed to have a crucial emphasis on disabled access with ramps, dropped curbs and a lack of barriers implemented so as to create a fully accessible centre for those with additional needs.Carlton’s Ridings Gold Antique clay bricks were used to exemplary effect in the construction of the project with the soft pink, orange and red hues providing a summer-y, pleasant glow to the area, perfect for its close proximity to the beach. The brick also provides a fitting complement to the featured off-white facades that surround certain buildings.

A new state-of-the-art Jaguar Landrover showroom was built for the Helston Group in Taunton. The facilities reflect the latest corporate identity concept and comes complete with a new workshop, multi-storey rooftop parking, and an interactive showroom configuration with display systems.The showroom features wide open spaces and a large sales area to provide the customer with a first-class experience. It also affords staff members greater visibility throughout the showroom and forecourt areas. Lusso were appointed by main contractor, Acheson Construction, to provide internal glazing throughout the showroom and workshop area. Lusso 25 frameless single glazed partitioning system and complimentary Lusso glass doors were installed to form individual offices which allow privacy when needed, whilst still maintaining visibility of the showroom. Lusso 105 double glazed frameless partitions were installed to provide a barrier between the showroom and workshop area.The use of stylish internal glazing as part of the backdrop to the stunning Jaguar Landrover range certainly makes an impact. The end result blends functionality and aesthetics, providing a stylish and contemporary showroom worthy of the prestigious Jaguar Land Rover brand.

Developed by Willmott Dixon and designed by Corstorphine & Wright as part of Devon & Cornwall’s Police and Crime transformation plan, this state-of-the-art police centre and operational hub is the base for up to 450 officers across the area. The project was developed with the intent to improve custody areas for detainees and provide a comfortable, modern working facility for its staff. During the development of the project, suggestions were taken from custody sergeants to help create a better space for staff and detainees.To provide the facilities necessary for 21st-century policing, attention was paid to integrating assets such as a virtual court system, and technology to monitor the health of vulnerable detainees and allow for crisp, modern meeting spaces that cater for a multitude of police functions.Local suppliers were engaged with the project and through training schemes, the project has been able to offer valuable experience to apprentices. Utilising 314sqm of Solar panels also means this build generates a substantial amount of green energy.Blockleys Synthesis S14 was used to create a strong, dark belt around the building which then blends smoothly into vertical strips of glass and contrasting white facades.

Automatic Systems was asked by Aspex UK Limited to work with them on a project they had won at the head office of Riverside Group.Riverside is a group of complementary businesses driven by a clear social purpose, with a charitable housing association at its core.Established over 90 years ago, they have grown to become a major provider of affordable housing, care and support services in England and Scotland, with almost 56,000 homes in management. Operating at scale and across 160 local authorities, their vision is to transform the lives of the 90,000+ people they house and revitalise the neighbourhoods in which they live.RiversideGroup approached Aspex as a result of Covid to help secure and control the access of their head quarter building.SOLUTIONWith the help of Automatic Systems Aspex came up with a solution that fulfilled their criteria. This included the installation of the newly launched Firstlane and AccessLane.WORK TIMEFRAMEHaving worked with Aspex on a number of previous projects Automatic Systems were the preferred supplier when the contract was won in December 2020. Works took a week to complete as allocated in February this year.FUTURE WORKAutomatic Systems looks forward to working with Aspex on future projects.

Oval VillageKennington North LondonScreed Supplied By: Capital ConcreteScreed Installer: The Progressive Group Ltd.Product Used: Cemfloor NH C25F5Berkeley Group is one of the UK’s leading developers and has won numerous awards for its commitment to quality, design and customer service.Oval Village, located next to the famous Surrey Cricket Grounds, and built on the old Gas Works, is a new luxury development of 1300 homes, along with Retail, Food, and Office spaces.As part of the project brief, there was a need to install a low depth flooring solution. Due to its high flexural strength Cemfloor NH provided the solution as it allowed a 40mm screed depth to be installed, without compromising onquality. Thanks to the pumpability of Cemfloor, Progressive Group were able to pump to height, and install the screed over 18 stories, with the material being pumped over a distance of 160 meters without any issues.The main advantage Cemfloor has over other flowing screeds is the quicker drying times, and that it can accept foot traffic after 24 / 48 hours, meaning that construction could continue quickly and efficiently to meet the projectdeadline.

The £6 million Sandiefield Building Scheme for New Gorbals Housing Association – comprising 29 offices and flats – was completed in July 2019 and constructed by CCG limited and Interlocked Construction.AG supplied its well-established Plaza paving, in Salt + Pepper (400x200x80), to provide a beautiful and robust hard landscaping solution for the surroundings outside the centre. This product was integrated into the design to create polished, smooth lines and was supplied in various sizes (Plaza Pepper 200x100x80) to create aesthetically-pleasing patterning effects to the finished look.David McCandlish, Regional Sales Manager at AG Scotland, said:“We quickly identified Plaza, in Salt and Pepper, as the perfect fit for this major project. Plaza is a heavy-duty solution that is equipped with slip resistance, which will be important, given the high volume of footfall at the centre. This project tied in with another Medical Centre at New Gorbals for which Plaza and Xflo Plaza products were used.”AG’s Plaza paving is produced in the UK using locally sourced materials. 100% renewable energy is used during the production process, something AG has been devoted to implementing across all of its manufacturing locations.

Born in the historic headquarters of a nineteenth-century factory, Lanolin Fabrik is an ensemble of offices, lofts with kitchen spaces, terraces, loggias and green oases that make it a modern, functional and human-sized workplace.Our customer has implemented a new system consisting of domestic water supply and irrigation pumps for this historic complex: Esybox Max was chosen as the mains water booster set, whilst for the irrigation of the green areas the DAB Esytwin compact variable speed booster was identified as the solution.3 Esybox Max is a market leading technologically innovative water booster set, demonstrated to be highly efficient. The use of permanent magnet motors has contributed to a 20% efficiency improvement over industry standard pumps. The solution was designed and perfectly sized to obtain constant pressure for all users but with the minimum possible energy use.All the pumps in the water booster system were connected to a single control panel, which regulates the power supply to the multipump units.The complex consists of 2 buildings, one with 5 and one with 7 floors, and the entire water boosting system that powers it is monitored and managed remotely using the DAB D.Connect cloud based service.

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

Material and system specification used: Kalzip FC rainscreen in 500mm wide RAL 1035 pearl Beige and RAL 7022 – also Kalzip wall perforated        Stephenson Quarter is a major mixed-use development in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne by the Clouston Group. The site was home to the Robert Stephenson and Co. Locomotive Works, the crucible of the railway industry, where the revolutionary Rocket was built in 1829. The site includes the new Crowne Plaza Hotel and The Rocket (offices) plus Stephenson qtr Car park   Installation of over 1500 m2 of FC rainscreen cladding to the Rocket building in RAL 7022 and RAL 1035 Pearl Beige in between stone cladding on the Crown Plaza Hotel Kalzip Perforated facade was used to create a feature between the main brick work for the car park Key challenges overcome:  With 3 phases of the project to undertake over a period of 18 months. Working at height in a very tight, exposed city centre location, needed a high quality over-cladding solution with neat joints that was quick and easy to install. The product needed to integrate with the window system and other cladding facade materials   

Clement steel windows were chosen for the refurbishment of this double-fronted office building set within a busy part of the City of London near Smithfield Market. Surrounded by narrow cobbled streets it is situated on the boundary of the Smithfield Conservation Area.Blenheim House Construction (BHC) selected windows from the Clement EB24 range because they best suited the original look of the building and allowed for the maximum amount of light to flow throughout the property. Natural light was an important aim of this high specification refurbishment - central to the building is a mezzanine which creates a dramatic light-filled double height space.The windows are polyester powder coated in matt RAL 9005 (Jet Black) to match the frames as a finishing touch.Matthew Brown, Project Manager at BHC, commented:“We found Clement’s management team to be attentive, promptly addressing queries when raised and offering solutions and advice when called upon. This resulted in the windows being installed in a safe manner as per our agreed programme, and perhaps just as importantly, the client being pleased with the look of the end product.”Photography: CGS Photographers Ltd 

Lochrin Bain were appointed manufacturer of choice for the 2020 perimeter security requirements on Braithwaite Groups latest Mega Shed project for Farmfoods Ltd. Founded over 60 years ago from a butcher shop in Aberdeen, Farmfoods today Employs close to 4000 staff with over 300 shop locations across the UK, from its new Cumbernauld HQ. The projected consisted of a new 240,000 sq ft warehouse, to house one of the largest freezers in the country along with ambient storage facility of over 130,000 sq ft and new Grade A office space for headquarter staff. From the outset of the 52-week build, Lochrin Bain worked with Braithwaite to ensure a specification that offered their client a peace of mind 25 year guarantee while keeping to the original budget. During initial conversations, it was identified that the new LPS1175 Issue 8: A1 certified Combi SL1 Palisade system would be the perfect choice. Alter Landscapes based at Lochwinnoch in Renfrewshire were awarded the supply and installation of the fencing package with several hundred metres of fencing and various gates supplied and installed.

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

Soundis were required to supply and install the Absorb-R GypLine αw acoustic plaster to the underside of the central staircase and to various meeting rooms around the BSKYB TV Meeting Centre.Offering unrivalled levels of sound absorption...The project presented challenges, programme constraints and critical interfaces with Mechanical & Electrical trades all of which were dealt with by the site and installations team in a professional manner.The Absorb-R GypLine αw finish offers unrivalled levels of sound absorption but also ensures walls and ceilings are clear of panels and visible acoustic solutions, providing a virtually seamless monolithic surface for walls and ceilings in a choice of RAL colours.This was ideal for the BSKYB project team as it complied with all of their requirements and expectations. Soundis along with our installation partner UK Acoustic Systems have completed numerous similar projects using the Soundis Absorb-R GypLine αw Acoustic Plaster.The Absorb-R GypLine aw system achieves the “best” aesthetic finish possible with a range of finishes available. Absorb-R GypLine αw is now being specified and utilised in a large number of office, hotel and leisure projects throughout the UK.

Radii joined this fit out in late 2023, where we worked on the design, supply and install of of a tailored glazed partition package for 28 office and meeting rooms.On Level 2, our team designed and installed a stunning Glide framed glazed screen into quad telescopic track between the reception and adjoining communal area.Large meeting rooms on Levels 2 and 4 comprised Parallel 100 (Rw 50 dB) double glazed partitions with red and blue framework respectively; Parallel 100 and single glazed Linear 30 variation screens with bronze and grey frames were utilised elsewhere in the space depending on acoustic requirements. All aluminium was finished in Radii’s dedicated in-house PPC line, with the bronze finish also used on aluminium faced tech panels. Partitions were accompanied by 64mm timber veneered acoustic doors (Rw 41 dB) and double glazed pivoting Hogan doors (Rw 39 dB).Finally, Radii’s own high-performing FirePro steel-clad fire rated screens rated at E60 were installed on all three levels.

Oval Village in Lambeth is a project that comprises affordable residential apartments, with office and commercial space, retail and leisure facilities, and parking.The site is part of a large-scale redevelopment of the former Oval Gasworks site, offering 598 apartments with balconies and terraces for which we designed and developed the paving support system.The balconies used the TerraSmart Pedestal Paving System, which is straightforward to install, powerful and fully non-combustible, with the paving laid safely on our RP-FR, millimetre-perfect adjustable paving support pedestals, with edge spring clips around the edges to ensure uniform spacing for an aesthetically perfect finish.The terraces, with a commanding view of the city at the top of the building, feature a hybrid system starting with the TerraSmart Rail Paving System – super-strong thanks to its overlapping lattice framework – to form the ramps, which transition seamlessly into the TerraSmart Pedestal Paving System for the rest of the area.Throughout the project, we worked closely with Formation Architects, HTA Architects, Building Control, NHBC and Berkeley Group to design the most relevant systems for the project. Fenland Flat Roofing installed the systems for the balconies, while those for the terraces were installed by NAO Landscapes.

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

Wireworks London approached us looking for a modern industrialised Oak to clad onto a winding staircase in a beautiful London home. Amongst the options we presented was our CH-E780. This a White Oak with a brushed and band sawn surface giving it a clean yet worn texture. The rusticgrade Oak allows for some knotting to appear without it overpowering carefully detailed floorboards.These boards are finished with a commercial grade UV cured oil that makes it hard wearing and easy to maintain. This particular product has also been fitted throughout the busy, modern offices at 3 Shortlands, Hammersmith. It is easily one of our most popular surfaces and finishes.Wireworks didn’t want a separate stair nose component, instead opting for mitring the length of the boards to a 45-degree angle and jointing them together with a biscuit and high quality PVA glue. The effect is a stunning cascade of band sawn Oak which looks like it was purpose built in a specialist workshop or factory. This an excellent example of the ingenuity of the team at Wireworks and the adaptability of wood flooring.Would you like to see this type of cladding in using a herringbone parquet? Then please see our case study: Cladding Stairs in Engineered Herringbone Parquet

Ecoprod recently undertook a complete refurbishment of the washrooms at Dukes Court – 220,000 sq ft of premium office space in central Woking. The project started in January 2020 and handover was July 2020, somewhat later than expected due to the effect of the Covid 19 lockdown in Spring 2020.This project was delivered in collaboration with Designer Contracts Interiors UK Ltd who managed the flooring, walls, ceilings, doors, lighting, tiling, decorating and mirrors. Ecoprod supplied and managed the installation of the cubicles and IPS systems, all mechanical works, and the sanitaryware schedule and equipment.Cubicle and IPS systems – Petrus range by Formwise and Abet Laminati finish in Grey Zebrano5 WCs – Siamp Samoa Deluxe3 waterless urinals – URIMAT Ceramic Compact C22 URIMAT ESG urinal privacy dividers5 miscea LIGHT taps2 Tristone pure white wash troughs2 URIMAT Favorit hand dryers1 Mitsubishi Smart hand dryer1 Bespoke shower enclosure by Mega Glass1 Triton 80i shower setAccessible toilet – WC and handrail set by Disabled Toilets, basin by Conti +, tap Ultra by Conti+

Expanding Exeter College's 700-year-old campus in the heart of Oxford was a privilege given to Alison Brooks Architects: developing Cohen Quad, a hub for students including living accommodation for 90, an auditorium, seminar rooms, social learning spaces, an archive, a café, roof terraces, offices, and fellows' accommodation.Student rooms and fellows' studies are enclosed by patterned stainless steel that folds across wall and roof surfaces, sitting on a stone-clad 'base' that houses the quads' public spaces.The Rimex tiling in the checkerboard pattern really highlights the stunning dormer windows and the beautiful curve of the tiles from the roofline wrap around the roof and down the walls creating a seamless cloak around the building. 17,000 iridescent stainless steel shingles adorn this roof, and the tiles are of a wonderful muted bronze and champagne colour with an unusual texture - catching - but not reflecting the sunlight. "We were given excellent technical and sales support from Fixfast. All stainless steel fixings and shingle clips were supplied in a timely and efficient manner. These factors contributed to Roles Broderick Roofing Ltd winning the NFRC Roofing Award for 2017"Ben Clark - Operations Director at Roles Broderick Roofing Ltd

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

The Old Grammar School House in Shrewsbury is a Grade II listed historic building, which was formerly part of the school and has been converted to an office space.KEIM were approached by Randle Building Solutions, who had used KEIM Mineral Paints on a previous project in Edgmond, Shropshire. The conventional painted stonework was flaking and blistering due to excess moisture trapped within the substrate. The painted brickwork on the front of the building was in good condition.Bryan Roe of KEIM Mineral Paints recommended stripping the paint off the stonework and the brickwork at the back of the building, using KEIM STS 7M, that was holding damp and flaking. The gloss paint on the stone windows surrounds were to be stripped as much as possible and sanded down to create a key for the mineral paint to bond to.KEIM Contact-Plus was diluted with KEM Soldalit Fixativ to equalise surface textures and fill hairline cracks. KEIM Soldalit, in a bespoke grey colour (KS01 0312) that was matched back to the original paint colour, was applied to create a breathable, long-lasting finish.KEIM Soldalit is fire resistant and A2-s1, d0 classified. The sol-silicate properties mean that it can be applied over unpainted and previously painted surfaces without the need of a primer.

Built on the site of Warranty House, a now demolished office building, Middle Yard is a residential development located on Dudden Hill Lane in London. The regenerative development consists of 136 new homes set back from the road, creating a much sought-after sense of privacy and space. In addition to the 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, there is also a communal garden, pool and onsite gym for Middle Yard’s residents to enjoy.Designed by Union Developments and Lynas Smith Architects, the development was completed in 2022 and has been extremely popular amongst buyers, with multiple apartments being reserved before completion. The brick-centric homes align with the bricks’ proven record of high durability and low maintenance, and the location is extremely convenient for commuting into central London with multiple transport links extremely close by. The development is also close to a number of amenities, including schools, shops and parks.Middle Yard has provided much-needed new homes in northwest London. The timeless brick construction and eye-catching modern design have helped to regenerate an area of the city. Freshfield Lane’s eye-catching Lindfield Yellow bricks provide unmistakable character to the project and help settle it into the urban environment.

Project DetailProject: BMW Sytner – NottinghamLocation: Nottingham, UKProduct: TS.9205 Architectural door closersProject DescriptionSytner is the second largest prestige motor dealer in England. It recently invested £4 million in a state-of-the-art accident repair centre in Nottingham, which has been fitted out with the very best furnishings, finishings and fixtures.However, it soon became apparent that door closers on several of the office doors needed adjusting and replacing. They had been incorrectly fitted and adjusted, which was causing wear on the products and making the doors bang shut. Due to the complicated engineering, a specialist was required, even for fitting. The centre had been visited by various tradespeople, who attempted to rectify the door closers, but after a short time they found themselves faced with the same problem again.We replaced the existing door closers with TS.9205 door closers because of their:Engineering with precisionDesign assurance and 35 year guaranteeConsistency of movementSteve Maples, Sytner Bodyshop Manager, said: “After being on site for 15 minutes, Rutland were able to cure the issue we had with our existing door closers. Thank you for your help.”

Opened in April 2019 by the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, Hounslow House is the new greener-energy HQ of Hounslow Council in London.Building plans for the new purpose-built council offices included a rooftop communal area, and, impressed by what the team at AG could offer, it was agreed that AG’s TerraPave® premium granite flags perfectly fitted the requirement for a smooth granite finish flagstone, providing a more superior product than the original spec while also ensuring significant cost savings on the project.The 500m² area was given a beautiful aesthetic look through the use of our TerraPave® Rimini and Milano Ground (400x400x50mm) which was calibrated and laid on pedestals for speed of construction.Offering an attractive, cost-effective and practical alternative to traditional stone paving, TerraPave® is a favourite choice with architects and specifiers – and this is one project that proves why that’s the case.Dan Smith, AG Regional Sales Manager, said:“AG was able to provide better quality and a keener price on the products used. Furthermore, our team was also able to deliver both the experience and project know-how required to ensure the client received best value for money on the overall project.”

Rhodes House is set in a large garden on Oxfords South Parks Road, it was designed by Herbert Baker in the 1920s and is the base for the Rhodes Trust – a charitable trust founded by imperialist Cecil Rhodes which offers scholarships to the University of Oxford.To enable the trust to more forward and offer more scholarships Stanton Williams’ set about “architecturally liberating the building, to unlock its potential as a diverse and inspiring platform for ethical, creative and courageous people across geographies, cultures and disciplines.” The project included restoring the original building as well as creating 40 ensuite bedrooms, improved office accommodation, a range of meeting spaces and a hall for 300 people in the basement.3v worked in partnership with Stanton Williams and Beard Construction to develop the perfect Ironmongery scheme to work with both the old and new elements of the building using a mixture of antique brass for refurbished areas and stainless steel for new accommodation. We also undertook an extensive review of all existing doors and hardware and upgraded hinges, closers and signage to meet current UK fire regulations. Our products work seamlessly with the architects design aspirations helping to create a wonderful collaboration of old and new.Photography: Neil Kenyon

In 2015, we delivered our largest ever install of two-tier cycle parking in the UK at the prestigious Cambridge University, the world’s fourth-oldest surviving university.Working with principal contractor Morgan Sindall, we installed 678 two-tier bicycle racks to provide effective and secure cycle parking for over 150 departments, faculties, schools, syndicates and other institutions. This was phase one as part of the overall requirement of 2,000 cycle parking spaces in the university which has been planned over a period of two years.Cyclehoop is the official UK supplier of Jan Kuipers two-tier bicycle racks. This Dutch company are the first in Europe to develop this unique system that uses gas-assisted moveable upper sections. Its space-saving, robust design doubles the amount of cycle parking compared with traditional cycle racks and its gas-assisted mechanism increases its usability.The Dutch Two-Tier Rack is ideal for high-density areas and can be installed at train stations, offices, schools and shopping centres and major transport hubs. Today their two-tier racks have been installed in over 180,000 places at a wide variety of locations throughout Europe.

Closomat has supplied and installed state-of-the-art Changing Places for JD Wetherspoon in multiple locations across the UK. The national pub brand was the first to lead the way in accessibility and inclusion by providing these life-changing toilets for its patrons, engaging Closomat for installation and regular maintenance.The high-quality equipment included in these facilities, enables disabled customers with complex needs to access the toilet safely and with dignity, opening up the option of visiting venues for food and drink that could otherwise be unavailable to them.Under updated building regulations in England, as of January 2021, it is compulsory for any new building used for assembly, recreation or entertainment, including pubs, bars and restaurants, with a capacity of 350 people or more, to include at least one Changing Places toilet. It is also a requirement for existing businesses to install a Changing Places facility if undergoing substantial refurbishment.Changing Places by Closomat can be found at the following:The Booking Office, EdinburghCaptain Ridley’s Shooting Party, BletchleyThe Iron Duke, WellingtonThe Lifeboat, FormbyThe Mossy Well, Muswell HillThe Pilgrim’s Progress, BedfordThe Prior John, BridlingtonRoyal Victoria Pavilion, RamsgateSandford House, Huntingdon, The Troll Cart, Great YarmouthThe Velvet Coaster, Blackpool

In 2015, Quinn London Ltd started the refurbishment of The Market Building, in Brentford which involved the conversion of Offices to residential dwellings as a ‘Material Change of Use’ project. Soundis provided acoustic solution options for this project, in order to ensure a cost effective Value Engineering Exercise, on behalf of the Main Contractor.As the 1st floor required a deep void system due to new soil pipes and waste pipes having to be installed along the corridor within the building for kitchens and bathrooms, it was agreed to utilise Soundis Cradle & Batten System. This provided a service void for the pipes of 300mm whilst the other areas of the floor were treated with the system at 80mm FFH. The Soundis cradle & batten acoustic floor was then overlaid with a Soundis a high quality, interlocking dry screed system gypsum fibreboard.The Soundis cradle & batten floor system has been installed on the existing concrete and existing timber structural floors to provide a level floor over the un-even sub-deck. The service void provided by Soundis cradle & batten system can be used for other flooring applications, such as underfloor heating.Our Cradle and Risers are manufactured from 100% recycled materials assisting to the sustainability targets of projects.

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

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

Factory International will transform the former Granada Studios into a world-class cultural and arts venue in the heart of Manchester. It features The Hall, a large auditorium, and The Warehouse, a flexible multi-purpose space that is taller than four double-decker buses, longer than a jumbo jet and can accommodate 5,000 visitors.Alongside the two public events spaces are The Towers, which house the ground floor entrance foyer, five floors of office space and a plant room at the top of the building. Noise reduces productivity by 66% so when it came to specifying the soffit insulation for The Towers, the architect wanted a solution that would limit airborne sound transfer and reverberation.The insulation would be on display, so aesthetics was also important, and because Factory International will cater for large crowds of people, the chosen solution needed to be non-combustible.Meeting the briefThe architects specified Knauf Insulation’s 50mm Heraklith® Tektalan A2 SmartTec for the soffit insulation in the ground floor foyer of the Warehouse area, main feature staircase, offices and plant room of The Towers.Heraklith® Tektalan A2 SmartTec is a cement-bonded wood wool panel combined with a rock mineral wool insulation core. Both materials have an open structure that naturally absorbs the kinetic energy of sound waves, turning them into heat. It is also non-combustible with an Euroclass A2-s1,d0 reaction to fire classification.Crucially, the Heraklith® wood wool range is also designed for applications where aesthetics is important because the panel is on display. It features bevelled edges and comes in nature tone as standard, or can be ordered in any RAL colour upon request, to create a stylish, uniform finish.To compliment the design schemes in the different zones across the building, contractors, Mansell Building Solutions, ordered the panels in a combination of midnight blue, pebble grey, anthracite and black.Scheduling deliveriesAs the Factory International site is quite compact, there was little room available for storage. So, Knauf Insulation worked closely with distributor Encon Insulation to ensure the insulation was held in stock. Smaller deliveries were then made in line with Mansell Building Solutions’s schedule of works. This ensured that the insulation could be installed as soon as it arrived on site.The product is quick and easy to install. Panels are fixed into position by installing Heraklith® DDS Plus Concrete Screws into each corner and the centre of the panel. The fastener heads have a patented wood wool texture to enhance the finished appearance.Ultimately, installing Heraklith® Tektalan A2 SmartTec onto the soffits in The Towers and the ground floor foyer of the Warehouse not only compliments the design scheme and contributes to fire safety, but it will enable the team behind the events at Factory International to enjoy a quieter working environment too. 

Nestled in the vibrant heart of London, Sancroft is an office building that stands tall, a commanding structure that spans over 10 floors with 2 levels of basement with a GIA of circa 429,000sqft. When the building’s architects, Buckley Gray Yeoman Ltd, were tasked with providing intensive ventilation in the building, they turned to Price Engineered Solutions for advice. Price Engineered Solutions, renowned for their leadership in supplying heating and ventilation components for key projects across the UK. They recommended the architects to work with DUCO for the installation of intensive ventilation. A Breath of Fresh Air: Continuous louvre walls with value for moneyTo ensure the Sancroft building is ventilated naturally and continuously it was decided to install the sturdy, robust aluminium louvre-wall system, DucoWall Screening 70 & 75.John Biss, Contracts Manager from Price Engineering Ltd, explains: “The selection of the DucoWall Screening 70/75 was purly down to our recommendations and budget constraints. DUCO's louvre-wall system emerged as the ideal choice in terms of cost-effectivness.” Innovative design and aesthetic appearanceWhat sets this project apart is its innovative design, which distinguishes it from the neighbouring structures.John Biss continues: “This project is truly unique due to its innovative design. For instance, we had to incorporate bracketry to support a wire trelis that over time, will host climbing plants. . The sleek appearance of the DucoWall Screening adds to the uniqueness of the building”.Super-quick assembly and high airflowThe Z-shaped louvre blades of the DucoWall Screening are clicked directly onto the support section thanks to a direct clip system, ensuring super-quick assembly. The very large span and high airflow of the louvre wall ensures high ventilation values and thus an optimal indoor climate for all office workers present.John Biss : « With Duco’s patented ‘Direct Clip’ system, the louvre blades are clicked onto the support section directly, ensuring fast installation. In a world where everything has to be delivered very quickly and the next job is waiting in line, this is a very welcome asset!”Fine collaboration and postive feedbackThe collaboration between other parties, such as Britplas, leading commercial glazing specialist in the UK, and the engineers and contractors was very great. We had open communications between all parties involved which led to yet another project going off without a hitch”. Our client expressed profound satisfied, not only with the DucoWall Screening louvre wall but also with our adapt management of the design and installation process all while minimizing disruptoin to other trades” As John Biss aptly concludes,” We’ve delivered a project that exceeds expectations, offering a breath of fresh air in every sense” Architect: Buckley Gray Yeoman LtdBuilding contractor: Price Engineered SolutionsCommercial glazing specialist: Britplas     

Traditional Heritage Timber Casement Windows - Enhancing the Charm of Maltsters Tap, ShropshireLocated in the idyllic village of Cardington, near Church Stretton in Shropshire, the Maltsters Tap is a Grade II listed former brewery that recently underwent a remarkable transformation with the installation of traditional flush casement windows. Gowercroft Joinery's expertise in crafting heritage windows proved instrumental in this project, which serves as a compelling case study for architects and specifiers seeking to preserve the timeless appeal of traditional architecture.The property's new owner, Brian Tripp, sought to renovate his acquired dwelling with windows that perfectly complemented the rustic elegance of the countryside aesthetic while providing modern-day performance. Brian first discovered Gowercroft Joinery at the renowned Grand Design Exhibition, where he downloaded their brochure and subsequently reached out to discuss his specific requirements.Traditional Heritage Casement WindowsThe Maltsters Tap resides in the heart of the village, with its focal point being the charming village church. Surrounded by postcard-perfect scenery, it became evident that the choice of windows had to harmonize seamlessly with the picturesque surroundings. As Brian explains, "When we saw the Gowercroft Heritage window at the 'Grand Designs' Exhibition, we knew straight away it was just right for our listed building renovation, both for us and for our local Conservation Officer."The renovation process involved merging the two converted dwellings into a single residence, followed by a comprehensive interior refurbishment. Comfort and traditional styling were paramount, and upgrading the windows played a pivotal role in achieving these goals. The original single-glazed windows were replaced with Gowercroft's Richmond Flush Casement Heritage Windows, meticulously selected to blend with the property's historical character while delivering exceptional thermal efficiency.To retain the traditional look, the windows feature astragals, horizontal bars that replicate the iconic Georgian window design. However, ensuring uniformity presented a unique challenge due to the varying heights of the windows. Gowercroft's skilled team meticulously calculated the glass sizes and determined the number of astragals required for each window, accounting for the non-uniform dimensions characteristic of older properties. Additionally, the double skin insulating plasterboard necessitated adjustments to the frame sections, maintaining consistent sightlines throughout the project.Heritage Casement Windows InstalledIn total, 26 of Gowercroft's Richmond Heritage casement windows were expertly installed, completely transforming the Maltsters Tap and fulfilling Brian's vision for his dream home. This successful collaboration between the homeowner, Gowercroft Joinery, and the local planning officer stands as a testament to the remarkable synergy between traditional aesthetics and contemporary performance.With Gowercroft Joinery's exceptional craftsmanship and commitment to preserving architectural heritage, architects and specifiers can confidently rely on their expertise to enhance the appeal and functionality of projects featuring traditional heritage timber casement windows.

PROJECTED BRICK DETAILING USING MARSHALLS CONCRETE BRICKS FORMS THE CONTEMPORARY ARCHITECTURAL FOCUS OF THE TIMPSON UNIVERCITY.The retail service provider group’s new training centre near its head office in South Manchester.Designed by the Manchester office of award-winning architect practice tp bennett, the purpose of the new state-of-the-art building, known as The Nest, is to host training to 500 staff a year, including ex-offenders and those on day release.“We wanted to create the best training facility in the UK; a welcoming and comfortable building that inspires people to be their best within an environment that is fun, calm, spacious and collegiate,” explains Timpson Facilities Manager, Natasha Nelson.The single-storey, 9,258 sq foot brick-built building comprises a boardroom, training and meeting rooms as well as a breakout space and garden area. Originally, the project architect, whose intent was to add architectural interest using a projected brickwork technique, specified a white clay brick, externally.Working alongside the architect and main contractor John Turner Construction, brick expert and LBT Brick & Facades Ltd Commercial Manager Steven Leggott, specified Marshalls Castleton Stock facing bricks, he explains: “Originally the architect was looking to specify a white clay brick. I proposed some alternative options and the Castleton Stock brick came out as the preferred choice. It provided a competitive clay alternative – it’s a concrete brick that met both aesthetic and technical requirements.”THIS BRICKWORK DETAIL PROVIDES THE PERFECT BACKDROP TO THE BUILDING’S SIMPLE YET EFFECTIVE SIGNAGE.Running the full length of the entrance façade, Marshalls Castleton Stock facing bricks add texture and relief. The bricks have been laid using a natural mortar to create a projected pattern from the ground up to a two-third height, with the bricks protruding 20mm. This brickwork detail provides the perfect backdrop to the building’s simple yet effective signage.The Castleton Stock facing brick is part of the Marshalls frogged, contemporary range. With an industrial chic feel and a smooth face, it works well when creating modern designs.TIMPSON UNIVERCITY SITE HAS SAVED 12.4 TONNES OF CARBON.What’s more, this particular brick is Green Guide rated A+, as Marshalls concrete bricks have significantly less embodied carbon than clay bricks – almost 49% less over their whole lifecycle. By selecting the Castleton Stock brick as an alternative to a traditional clay brick, the Timpson UniverCity site has saved 12.4 tonnes of carbon.Commenting on the finished building Timpson Group Facilities Manager Natasha Nelson said: “The building is a huge hit with our colleagues and external clients, from the minute you approach the entrance, the brickwork detail makes such a first impression - setting the professional tone for what’s happening inside!”

Matching their generosity Safety Technology International have partnered with a community charity to preserve and protect a life-saving donation for when it is needed most.The Post Office Anglers Society (POAS) is a family fishing club with a long history stretching back to the early 1970s; initially the brainchild of now honorary member David Butt and a fellow group of Post Office Telephone Engineers the Society now has nearly 300 members.In 2005, the Southend-on-Sea based Society purchased a 4.5 acre site in Sutton, Essex to develop their very own two lake fishery, Beauchamps, to supplement their existing leased fishery. The POAS’ Beauchamps Fishery was recently fortunate enough to receive an automatic electronic defibrillator (AED) donated by the Finish Line Fund.The AED was to be installed in the fisheries meeting area, a location partially open to the elements and only accessible to members. It was vital, therefore, the new life safety device be properly protected for use in an emergency.As is customary, the AED operator’s manual offered clear instructions for proper installation and maintenance, including guidance on impact protection, equipment visibility and environmental protection requirements.Drawing on the life safety expertise of its membership, STI’s AED Protective Cabinet (STI-7531AED) was identified by the POAS and carefully chosen to protect the sophisticated medical device as it exceeded all of the criteria set out by the manufacturer and all with a three-year guarantee.POAS Member and Fire Safety Professional, Ken Pearce, said: “The POAS contacted STI to discuss the enclosure and its importance in protecting the possibly life-saving AED.“We were delighted to hear that STI offered to donate the enclosure to the club to safeguard the AED from the elements and allow us to be able to carry out the installation in line with the AED manufacturer’s guidance.”It was determined the impact-resistant UV-stabilised polycarbonate enclosure could withstand any amount of accidental knocks from fishing equipment and fishery maintenance tools; the clear polycarbonate housing and thumb lock allowing the portable AED to remain both highly visible and easily accessible, vitally important in an emergency.From the scorching days of the POAS Summer League matches to the chilly Winter League matches fished by the hardiest of fishermen, the typical working properties of -40°C to 121°C greatly exceed the wildest of temperatures expected at the fishery throughout the year – An internal gasket guards against ingress.Ken added: “The AED Protective Cabinet was installed by a member of the POAS Maintenance Team who found the installation to be extremely straightforward, and was particularly pleased with the supplied wire shelf and steel mounting backplate, which ensured a secure installation – The enclosure was successfully installed in under an hour.“All members would like to thank STI for this great donation and we can have confidence that the equipment, should it be needed, will be easily accessible and well protected.”

The award-winning and BREEAM Outstanding Engineering Building at the internationally renowned Lancaster University features a complete range of architectural aluminium glazing systems from Technal. Located on the Lancaster University campus in the North West of England, the new engineering facility was awarded Winner of the RIBA National Award for 2015 and was highly commended by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors in the Design through Innovation category at the 2016 RICS North West Awards. Purpose-built to a world-class standard, the scheme comprises of 4,701 sqm of workshop, laboratory and office space in two concrete framed blocks either side of a dramatic four-storey atrium. Using passive techniques to achieve the environmental performance measure of BREEAM 'outstanding' in the design assessment, which is in-line with Lancaster University's sustainability and carbon reduction targets. With this in mind, aluminium doors and curtain walling were chosen for this project. The Facade is featured throughout the building, and was specified for its contemporary aesthetics. The system also includes concealed vents to allow natural ventilation without compromising the architectural integrity of the facade. With natural light being a key part of the specification, Technal aluminium curtain walling allowed larger and heavier glazing units to be installed thanks to its superior load distribution, permitting more natural light to flow through the building's rooms.