"outdoor"

Gripsure decking has been used to provide safe outdoor areas at a learning centre and holiday lodges owned by a Cornish sailing charity. The Children’s Sailing Trust has taught more than 5,000 youngsters to sail since it was established in on the Helford River in 1997. The charity offers accessible sailing to children who might not otherwise get the opportunity to get out on the water, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.Gripsure’s non-slip decking has been used to create safe outdoor spaces at the trust’s recently opened public waterside Learning Centre at Trevassack Lake on The Lizard, as well as outside six holiday properties at the same site. The three accessible lodges and three cabins, all with inset hot tubs, are available for people to rent and help to raise important funds for the charity.Charity staff say the decking areas had to be non-slip and accessible, as well as in keeping with the style of the site. Up to 3,850 linear meters of Gripsure’s Contemporary profile boards have been used around two sides of public waterside at the Learning Centre, including the outside eating area.The Contemporary boards also form the large decking area outside each of the holiday properties. The lakeside has three architect designed lodges, two of which are fully accessible with integrated ceiling hoists, adjustable kitchen facilities, wide doorways and other aids.There are also three double-depth cabins, more suitable for non-disabled guests or those with some mobility limitations.Katie Chown, marketing manager at Children’s Sailing Trust said: “The non-slip surface is very important because we have children running around and people with mobility difficulties who need to have safe, level walkways. We chose the Contemporary profile because we are a brand new site with purpose-built, modern facilities to welcome all ages and abilities, so all the finishings and furnishings are classic, modern and good quality.”Gripsure’s low maintenance Contemporary profile boards are made from high-quality Northern European Redwood Pine. They have an expected service life of 15-20 years and a 15-year non-slip performance warranty.Katie said: “It does the intended job and looks smart,” adding that it is “very practical in day-to-day use.”The decking areas at Trevassack Lake were fitted through contractor Brady Construction. Alastair Knight from Brady said although tough to cut, the boards blended in with the look of the centre and holiday properties. “It all looked really good in the end,” he said. “Apart from blunting a few cutting tools, everything else was brilliant. The decking fitted in very well.”The Children’s Sailing Trust was established for local school children. The opening of Trevassack means it can offer a wide range of accessible and inclusive facilities.Trevassack is open to the public, for all ages and abilities or disabilities.To find out more, see childrenssailingtrust.org.ukAll media is courtesy of The Children's Sailing Trust. ©2022 The Children's Sailing Trust

About The ProjectIn this case study, we delve into the exciting journey through a recent project involving the installation of an 85m² Springtime resin bound gravel pathway and a 16m² patio. This project exemplifies the art of transforming outdoor spaces using top-quality materials and a skilled workforce with years of experience in resin bound gravel installations.The choice of the stunning Springtime blend and AH Paving's dedicated three-man installation team set the stage for a remarkable transformation. Springtime, with its vibrant and natural appearance, breathes new life into outdoor spaces. The customer's decision to opt for Springtime was driven by its beautiful mix of golden, brown, white, and red aggregates, creating a traditional colour blend perfectly suited for their countryside setting.Resin Bound Gravel Installation ProcessThe installation was expertly carried out by the three-man AH Paving team, showcasing their excellent teamwork and precise workmanship, honed through years of experience.The first team member meticulously managed the material mixing process. He created a textbook set up of their mixes with each stack featuring; a PermaBound resin binder, four bags of gravel from large to small and a bag of KLCP sand. Afterwards, he added the gravel, resin, and sand to their SoRoTo forced action mixer, ensuring each batch was mixed for the exact same duration before decanting the mixed material into a wheelbarrow for transport to the installation area.The second team member took on the role of evenly spreading the mixed material using a tool known as a spazzle. This step is crucial to ensure an even distribution of material across the surface at the correct depth, resulting in a well-compacted resin bound surface. The unique design of the spazzle streamlines this phase of the installation, making it both efficient and accurate.The third team member then took over, displaying their craftsmanship by hand-troweling the surface with The Resin Bull 500LT+ trowel. This step is vital for achieving a compact, level, and smooth finish. The expertise of the installers was evident in every stroke, culminating in a seamless and elegant finish.This process was repeated until both the path and patio were completed. The team's attention to detail ensured the creation of a stunning, uniform surface that is guaranteed to stand the test of time.Project OutcomeThe superb efforts of AH Paving combined with PermaBound materials resulted in a breathtaking Springtime resin bound gravel installation with an incredibly satisfied customer! The pathway and patio area have been utterly transformed with the use of high-quality, PermaBound products. These spaces now exude natural beauty, providing an attractive, permeable, and low-maintenance surface for years to come.If you’re considering a resin bound gravel surface for your home or commercial property, the PermaBound team and our extensive network of approved installers throughout the UK are ready to bring your vision to life.Please do not hesitate to contact us by calling 01246 418144 or LiveChat with us during office hours. Outside of these times, you can always leave us a message.You can watch our YouTube video on this installation by clicking here: PermaBound Springtime Resin Bound Gravel Installation - 85m² Path & 16m² Patio.

We travelled to London and sat with Sebastian and his wife Miriam who have just rejuvenated their kitchen area, so that it connects their home with the outdoors in a wonderful way by simply replacing and upgrading their rooflights.The old rooflights simply didn’t have the versatility that the family was looking for, so when it came to finding a set that offered them exactly what they needed, Sebastian and Miriam chose Vario by VELUX.Due to the position and functionality of the existing rooflights in the kitchen, the family quickly realised that it didn’t fit their needs, discovering that the room became hot during the summer months and because of nearby foxes, they couldn’t safely leave their façade windows open without worrying about inviting unwanted visitors into the home.“We moved here in the middle of winter,” Miriam explained, “So we didn’t understand how hot it became inside over the summer months. What we needed was ventilation to cool it down over the summer. We chose to replace the rooflights, as the ones that we had were static and didn’t allow ventilation and these are amazing for that.”Sebastian discussed how working closely with Vario by VELUX allowed the family to get exactly what they wanted and how they were able to create a home that truly met their needs. “Vario by VELUX were the only ones that offered bespoke windows that could open, and when you’re away, if it rains, they close.”“I did everything online. I went to the website where they have this Build Your Own 3D configurator and I chose the window I wanted, the colour I wanted and the size I needed. I would definitely recommend everyone to use Vario by VELUX for installation, delivery and to receive support and warranty, which is very important.”An incomparable differenceThe impact that the new rooflights have had on the family has been remarkable and really had a positive impact, as Miriam explains. “The contrast between a fixed rooflight and one that opens is incomparable really - cooking smells are out very quickly, you can cool the room down and it never gets too hot in here, it’s not just a bit of glass in the roof, it’s a bit of tech that you can use and integrate into your life.”“The two Unlimited Rooflights have really impacted the room with the amount of fresh air we get in there.”“I get up for work very early, about 6am,” Sebastian adds, “And before having these windows, the room was just hot and you could feel the lack of air, now, when I come down the window has been open and it makes a difference.”“It’s made the whole house cool. We now have a movement of air through the house that we didn’t have before. I think it’s a really lovely way to be connected to the outside - you see the seasons change, you can watch the roof splatter with raindrops - my daughter loves watching that when it happens - and the bifold doors plus rooflights really make this an integrated room with the garden. You have a bit of the outdoors inside here.”

Hoptbühl playing field in Villingen-Schwenningen, featuring products from PolytanA GEM OF A SPORTS FACILITYGood things come to those who wait, including in Villingen-Schwenningen. It took 20 years for the school playing field at Hoptbühl Gymnasium to be renovated. But all is well that ends well: the fully renovated sports field is proving to be a real gem. It features various products from sports surface specialist, Polytan.The road to the new sports facility was indeed long and rocky: barely linear, it was full of surprising twists and turns. The low point was when the dilapidated site was completely shut for safety reasons, and outdoor sport had to be removed from the school timetable. Then things started to change: in May 2019, the local council decided that the sports facility at Hoptbühl would finally be renovated. The result is an absolute gem that is unrivalled in the local area.After 15 months’ construction time, young athletes in Villingen-Schwenningen are delighted by a new artificial turf pitch surrounded by a four-lane running track, three long jump and two high jump runways, a throwing circle for shot put, a small playing field, two beach volleyball courts, three bouldering walls and a calisthenics street workout park. The sports facility was designed by Martin B. Kuberczyk of k3 LandschaftsArchitektur, based in Villingen-Schwenningen, and realised by Erhard Gfrörer & Sohn Schotterwerk, based in nearby Empfingen.Professional sports surfaces for successful training and competitionThe new facility features LigaTurf Cross football turf, in which Polytan has successfully combined artificial turf systems with textured (crimped) and smooth filaments. The former are known for their high cost-efficiency, robustness and low maintenance, while the latter are extremely popular among footballers for their authentic ball rolling characteristics, just like on natural grass. The running track was constructed using Polytan’s Rekortan M in rainbow blue, a professional sports surface for track and field stadiums, school sports facilities and competitive running tracks. The water-permeable, pour-coated surface is characterised by excellent acceleration and high tread elasticity. Users of the calisthenics street workout park are protected by Polytan’s PolyPlay FS fall protection surface, also in rainbow blue. The bulk-coated, water-permeable covering is extremely easy to care for and, thanks to its cushioning effect, protects against injuries in the event of falls.The attractive outdoor sports facility has been used by Hoptbühl’s 600 or so high school students since the start of the 2021/22 school year. To ensure optimal utilisation, students from the neighbouring Christy Brown School and Albert Schweitzer School can also use the facility for track and field, climbing, football or beach volleyball. In addition, the field is used by local clubs in the evening, and is therefore equipped with floodlights.The opening ceremony for the renovated sports field took place at the Hoptbühl Gymnasium in September, with a very special sports festival: just like at the Olympic Games, classes of students entered the stadium and mastered the various facilities in no time.

Built in 1957, St Cuthbert’s is one of the oldest Secondary Schools in St Helens, and was the first Catholic Secondary Modern to be built since the war. The distinctive main elevation of the school appears largely as it did nearly sixty years ago, but over-all the school’s buildings have increased over the last half century to accommodate increased pupil numbers and more facilities. Last year, Twinfix were approached by BPL Construction to design, supply and install an enclosed free-standing mono-pitch canopy at the school, which would provide additional space for dining, a popular choice for schools looking for a cost-effective alternative to traditional extensions, allowing them to utilise their outdoor areas and provide additional covered space. The canopy covering a total of 129 square metres, manufactured from rust-resistant aluminium and powder coated to RAL 9004 signal black comprises of our innovative Multi-Link-Panel NF roof-glazing system, glazed with 25mm opal polycarbonate. Coloured vinyls were attached to some of the side panels to brighten up the structure and tie in with school branding. Mrs Twist, Head Teacher at the school commented: “We are extremely impressed with the quality and design of the canopy. The onsite team have worked in close proximity to our students and have taken full account of their health and safety.” The addition of the side glazing and doors add extra protection from the elements, making it a usable space throughout the year and a secure area for storage of equipment.

A stylish, modern residential tower block in the heart of Canary WharfThis project is part of a redevelopment that includes 3 towers and is due to be fully completed in 2028. The tallest tower, Hampton Tower, is 214.5m and 68 stories high. Originally, it was considered too tall for the area and thus it was reduced to the current 68 floors. The building is situated just south of Canary Wharf with excellent access to travel with Canary Wharf and Elizabeth Line underground stations both within a 5 minute walk.The development will provide 1,338 residential apartments along with 6000 sq metres of new outdoor public space including café’s and restaurants. The towers will have ground floor retail and resident amenities such as a double-height pool, fitness centres and spa, and community and children’s spaces. Not to mention a garden on the 56th floor and the highest bar in London!Selo supplied a number of products to this project including concealed metal riser doors, concealed frame doors and sliding pocket doors. Concealed internal doors are becoming a very popular solution in interiors because of the desire for a luxurious, sleek finish.Conceal those unsightly risers and service cupboards with a flush riser door that seamlessly blends in with the walls and surroundings. Achieve a spacious feel with full height concealed frame doors or sliding pocket doors that will not only feel more spacious but actually save you space. If you’re looking for concealed doors for your project, give us a shout and see how we can help.

The Sniezka Medica Spa, a multipurpose hotel with great urban appeal, is located in Łomnica, Poland. Atlas Concorde floors and tiles help shape the contemporary design of the large spaces of this hotel. Every detail of the project and the choice of materials have been designed to give the best reception to an international clientele.Marble-finish ceramic surfaces for scenic patterns and geometries in space Spaces are modern and welcoming. In the hall and in the area in front of the hotel’s reception, the star is Marvel PRO, which outlines the floors in scenic and practical interiors. Here, interior design plays with an alternation of light shades, such as Cremo Delicato, and dark shades, such as Noir St. Laurent. The honed finish of the Marvel PRO marble-effect stoneware gives unprecedented shine. In the Noir St. Laurent nuance, the stoneware surface resembles a kind of French marble with a dark ground, shades ranging from rich brown to deep black, outlined by white veins. It alternates with Cremo Delicato, which looks like a kind of Italian marble in a beige shade that verges on ivory, standing out for its delicate brown veins.Stone-effect stoneware for outdoor safety and aesthetic impact   In the hotel’s three entrances, stoneware surfaces celebrate a luscious, attractive nature with the Trust collection by Atlas Concorde. The ceramic surfaces of the Trust collection look like stone, with similarly rich details. Titanium was the colour of choice for this architectural project, as it takes inspiration from a precious split stone, embedding its scratches and elegant colour streaks.

Located in Anglesey and operated by Bangor University, Menai Science Park is the flagship building for Wales' first dedicated science park. The facility is built to BREEAM Excellent standards and comprises of 5,000 sqm of offices, laboratories and workshop space for up to 700 people - from start-up businesses to large corporate companies. The building's structure features a striking white continuous flowing ribbon that forms wall, floor and roof surfaces and wraps around the glazed facade to the front elevation. The two-storey entrance connects to the main three-storey, traditional brick cavity U-shape building,m which houses the laboratories and offices and features a facade that encloses an open courtyard. Aluminium curtain walling from Technal was installed and spans 74m x 11m. This had to follow the curvature and flow of the ribbon at the point of fabrication. The key area for this facade is the first floor horizontal and sloping ribbon - the curtain walling continues behind the Corian rainscreen. One particularly challenging detail is the 6m glazed linking walkway that connects the innovation area to the brick-built main building. Designed with a double-pitched roof, the curtain walling follows the long contours across the two pitches of the roof at an angle. This involved calculations and modelling to accommodate the difficult compound angles to ensure the desired architectural intent was achieved. Throughout the building, aluminium casement windows have been installed, some as inserts within the facade including automatic opening vents, and to the courtyard elevations. Completing this contemporary outdoor space, the windows are complemented with timber rainscreen panels.

White Cliff House, designed by RDMA, is built with steps and planter boxes arranged naturally as a hardscape stretched from the lowest to the highest point of the land. The height differences between facades emerged from the two roads attached. It was treated as the site power, which was brought up in the site planning as the major theme. Bringing in the outdoor qualities within the masses not only enriches the space experience inside but also enlarges the narrow width.On a sloppy narrow land measuring 6,5 x 25 meter, 3 programs were built within steps and planter boxes arranged naturally as a hardscape stretched from the lowest to the highest point of the land. They are 2 lofts serves as guest houses and a 2 storey house for the property owner at the top. The unfriendly 30 degree contour created more than 10 meter height differences between facades that emerged from the two roads attached at both ends of the stretch, and it was in-fact treated as the site power which brought up into the site planning as the major theme of how the building masses should perform and interact within each other. By applying terracing strategy, building masses were arranged in a way that each of the roof can also function as a balcony for the floor above. Every floor has their own private balcony.Selo provided the exceptional versatile doorset, Arriva. When positioned in front of the concealed flush side, the door gracefully swings open towards you, adding to its user-friendly and adaptable design.

OverviewThis project saw the refurbishment of King Solomon International Business School, which was changing hands from office use to education. The building now features specialist science rooms, resistant materials workshop, drama studio, outdoor sports hall, music rehearsal rooms, food technology, ICT rooms and language rooms.ChallengesDue to the change of building use, a full survey of the roof covering was required. Excessive moisture was found within the existing asphalt covering, water ingress was present and the internal top floor of the building was not suitable to be used as a teaching space. The roof area presented many challenges with complex detailing to existing balustrade posts, live mobile telephone masts and large quantities of plant / M&E installed.SolutionsAs a starting point, the roof was completely stripped due to the high level of water ingress. The existing asphalt covering was removed ready for installation of a new Excel RBM system, with Hytherm ADH PIR thermal insulation. Much of the existing M&E was found to be redundant and could safely be removed from the roof area.The complex detailing to the balustrades and fire risk areas was simplified using Starcoat PMMA cold applied liquid waterproofing, allowing for a long term, robust and financially viable solution. High level roof areas were also detailed with ease using Starcoat PMMA. Successful installation provided a peace of mind roof covering for the next 25 years, supported by Axter’s Platinum Guarantee.Systems in useExcel®Starcoat® PMMA

Artform Urban Furniture was appointed by Seddon Construction to provide external furniture to a state-of-the-art new Veterinary School in Staffordshire. The Harper & Keele Veterinary School is a joint venture with Harper Adams University and is located on Keele University’s campus. The building is a modern take on the traditional surrounding redbrick architecture. Located in North Staffordshire, the rural campus location consists of extensive woods and lakes, an ideal location for the country’s future vets.To complement the building's distinctive raw umber colour the client opted for a range of corten street furniture. Corten Steel is sandblasted before proceeding with the oxidation process, designed to limit water consumption and achieve a more consistent finish. Pre-Weathering reduces the level of washout onto surrounding surfaces, units can be fully sealed with anti washout or wax protection treatment to eliminate leakage altogether.The street furniture package was to be positioned around the building's entrances and main thoroughfares. The selection of pre-weathered Corten Steel products includes Spencer T Litter Bins which have a modern tapered design, Cube bollards that can also be used as seating, and Vision Bollards that have an in-built LED light that provides a subtle ambient light for the walkways and entrance. Removable Stainless Steel Bollards were also supplied to provide restricted access for authorised vehicles to particular areas of the campus. The Harper & Keele Veterinary School is now a site that provides excellent teaching to aspiring vets, and has a safe and harmonious outdoor space for respite from the heavy workload. 

The Director of Tiptoes Day Nurseries required weather protection structures at a number of their locations in Hull, East Yorkshire and one of those locations was Tiptoes Nursery in Willerby in Hull.Upon completion of the site survey we could see that the Coniston, which they originally chose, was the perfect solution for the area they were looking to cover. It was advised that due to the size of the canopy and to provide added protection from driving rain, that they add infill panels to either side of the canopy. Infill panels are a cost-effective addition to the Coniston yet makes a substantial difference.The Coniston is a popular canopy within educational settings as it provides protection from all weathers including the rain, the sun’s UV rays and the heat from the sun, providing a cooler area underneath, and cooler classrooms that have windows where the canopy is situated.To save on costs, we suggested that the projection could be reduced slightly without causing a big impact on the size of cover required. However, a 5-metre projection was a must have for the nursery because they had existing softplay flooring in place and wanted the canopy to cover the width of the spftplay for a seamless finish. Although this impacted the cost, it was worthwhile as you can see in the photos it looks like the flooring and canopy were a part of the same design.The canopy was installed within 4 days as scheduled and went ahead with no issues along the way. The staff at the nursery were pleased with their canopy which covers 114.5 square metres and can now make use of outdoor play and learning all year round, benefits both the staff and children in their care.

London Stadium (formerly and also known as Olympic Stadium) is a multi-purpose outdoor stadium at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park London.Project/doors:21 Fire and Security shutters (2010)50+ Fire and Security shutters (2015)The challengeHart assisted with the specification prior to the award. Technical collaboration was ongoing ensuring that integration and operation of the shutters went smoothly with safety and continuity in mind. Hart was subject to strict working practices and the factory was visited to review progress and audit Hart's quality system procedures.The solution2010 - Manufacture, supply, deliver and install 21 Fire Resistant and Security Shutters to the Olympic Main Stadium requiring advance battery backup and operational features. 2015 - Manufacture, supply, deliver and install over 50 Security and Fire shutters to the new build including kiosk shutters, security entrances and POD buildings surrounding the arena. The successHart was chosen out of 50+ door companies to supply all of the roller shutters to the London 2012 Olympic main stadium. Hart was again awarded all of the roller shutters under much competition on the stadium transformation project in 2015 which was transformed to cater for the multi-use environment.The review:“You should be commended for the cooperation, commitment and effort applied by your entire team. From early design discussions to your final commissioning activities of the 50 new shutters onsite, it was a pleasure to work with such proactive and knowledgeable organisation.” Jon Pepper, Project Manager, Balfour Beatty

Taw Wharf is a new waterfront destination placing contemporary design and modern amenities alongside the historic listed buildings of the medieval Long Bridge. The full development will encompass a range of apartments, penthouses and townhouses adding up to a 172 newly designed homes. Hyperion Composite Fencing was selected for this project. Project BreakdownLed by local housing experts North Devon Homes and Pearce Homes, the 30-acre site will have close references to the character and materials of the site’s maritime history and its riverside wharf location to create a vibrant community.Located in the premier town of North Devon, the project is close to both the country and the coast. To enhance its natural beauty and rural living, all new release townhouses will offer an outdoor area. The development is nearing completion with the first viewings taking place beginning of August 2019.The SolutionEnviroBuild provided 3,118 m² of Hyperion Pioneer stone fencing for the townhouses’ front gardens and parking spaces. The non-rot, low maintenance panels made it the perfect material to fence the residential homes. The contemporary design also made the development blend in perfectly with the area’s historic charm.Working closely with the contractor Pearce Construction, the fencing was installed using granite fence posts included in the purchasing price.Project DetailsSize: 3118 m²Product: Stone Hyperion Pioneer FencingClient: Pearce ConstructionArchitect: Woodward SmithContractor: North Devon Homes & Pearce HomesSub-contractor: Pearce ConstructionLocation: Barnstaple, North Devon

EnviroBuild worked closely with Bouygues development to provide over 160sqm of Hyperion Pioneer Oak composite decking for the residential balconies. For the Ebury centre project. This exciting mixed educational and residential development in the heart of London’s SW1 was designed by award-winning architects Sheppard Robson. The project– commissioned by developers Linkcity, combines the creation of an 11-storey residential tower with a 56,000 sq ft University Technical College (UTC).The UTC, named after the London’s former mayor for Planning and Policy, Sir Simon Milton, includes workshops, as well as a gym, sports facilities and a large outdoor terrace.The residential element of the scheme, which has been purchased by Taylor Wimpey Central London, is set to complete in 2018. The 11-storey tower will offer 47 high-quality one, two and three-bedroom apartments with adjoining balconies.The decking was installed on a durable sub-frame of Manticore plastic Lumber and MESA Support adjustable decking pedestals. This subframe allowed quick, easy and adjustable installation and the non-rot composite Hyperion Decking meant our clients were safe in the knowledge the balconies would look great for years to come.Project DetailsSize: 400m²Colour: OakProduct: Pioneer Range – Hyperion DeckingSubstructure: Manticore Plastic Lumber & Mesa Support Adjustable PedestalsLocation: LondonClient: LinkcityArchitect: Sheppard Robson ArchitectsContractor: BouyguesAll images courtesy of Sheppard Robson Architects and Taylor Wimpey

CJ Murfitt were asked to provide an alternative product to replace failing timber products at Castle Special School in Cambridge. The school, which has 165 children attending, was opened in 2006 to replace four existing special schools in Cambridge. The timber had been used to edge planting bays and due to the poor quality of the existing material, large areas are now unusable and unsafe. The recycled rectangular palisade which was used on this project is ideal for challenging outdoor environments. The existing timber had rotted very quickly, due to poor quality preservatives which have been used in timber since the legislation which stopped the use of oil based preservatives came into effect.Recycled plastic products do not absorb moisture, do not rot and are resistant to vandalism. Rectangular palisades look great and their longevity is many times that of timber. There is a great variety of hanit palisades, suitable for creative design in any new development, reconstruction and modernisation project. Strong, durable and weatherproof, the palisades have a smooth splinter free finish. They have strong impact resistance and require little maintenance. The brown textured surface resembles the natural beauty of wood. These products can be easily nailed, cut and screwed. “The square palisades were very easy to install, allowing us to complete the work quickly and efficiently. As the product is maintenance free, we are confident that the project will remain aesthetically pleasing for a very long time.” David Coulson CJ Murfitt Limited - Contractor.

The redevelopment of Thrayle House involves a collection of new builds with heights of up to 20 storeys. Changes to fire legislation placed a ban on using combustible materials on the external walls and specified attachments of new high-rise buildings. Materials used in the construction of relevant residential buildings have therefore been limited to those with a fire-rating of Class A1 or A2 under EN13501-1 standards.Project BreakdownOrientated around quality and high specifications, Thryale House was after a balcony flooring system to support its 170 new homes, accommodating for a variety of resident needs, from the elderly to families and couples.Designed to comply with all current legislation, EnviroBuild’s Luxury Porcelain Tiles were selected to furnish all balconies across the Thrayle House collection.The SolutionThese complete non-combustible balcony systems offer solutions to meet the requirements of any project without compromising on quality or sustainability. Iron, from the Ergo collection, was selected to beautifully accompany the existing shades of the build, supporting the charismatic aesthetic developed through its local connections.Along with its reliable non-combustibility, a variety of impressive benefits include anti-fade technology, scratch resistance and low maintenance requirements for resident security and ease.Project DetailsSize: 460 m²Product: Iron Outdoor Porcelain PavingSubstructure: MESA Paving SupportsClient: Henry Construction & Network HomesArchitect: PRPLocation: London

Step into the sunlight-soaked transformation of Jasmin and Liam’s home, where sustainability meets bespoke design. Passionate about making their home as much of a “Passive House” as possible, the homeowners embarked on a renovation journey and, with help from Vario by VELUX, incorporated our well-loved products—the Rectangular rooflight and Unlimited rooflight in key spots in their home.Read on to discover how Vario rooflights have effortlessly transformed an Edwardian house filled with dark rooms into a spacious sanctuary flooded with natural light and a healthy, sustainable home for the family for many years to come.Brightening up an Edwardian home with Bespoke Flat Roof WindowsIn August 2020, the couple found their dream home and aimed to create a healthy, sustainable lifestyle as they were working from home more than ever. Craving extra space, a larger garden, and a seamless outdoor connection, they sought to transform their house into a haven for both living and thriving. Despite the challenge of an Edwardian layout, they collaborated with Vario by VELUX to infuse every corner with natural light. Using bespoke roof lights, the plan was to flood key spaces like the kitchenA Passive House with Bespoke SkylightsAs seen on UK TV, our couple's journey to revamp their Edwardian home isn't just a makeover—it's a dive into sustainable living to get as close to a "passive house" as possible, which speaks volumes about their commitment to the environment. "I think that maximising natural light in the home is really important," shares Jasmin, underscoring the importance of a bright, naturally illuminated space.Focus on Daylight and VentilationInvesting in natural light goes beyond mere aesthetics; it's a dedicated commitment to enhancing well-being, as expressed by the homeowners; “That kind of investment in natural light really does help with all facets of our life and for our creativity and mental health.” The double-height space benefits from a roof window directly above the staircase, enabling natural light to reach the floor below. We firmly believe that the staircase wouldn't have that impressive "wow factor" without this addition!In a world where spending more time indoors has become the norm, Jasmin and Liam recognised the value of a home that embraces maximum light while retaining energy and warmth, ensuring nothing is lost to the outside atmosphere, and keeping the home energy-efficient.And in line with the idea of a passive house, the rooflight and glazing help to retain heat during winter, keeping heating bills lower.In their home cinema, they have a VELUX window and a made-to-fit VELUX blackout blind; this is a great example of how Vario rooflights can integrate with standard pitched roof windows. Get a complete VELUX solution for your home today.Elevate your home with Vario by VELUXCollaborating with Vario by VELUX means getting a completely personalised and curated flat rooflight solution. With this partnership, Jasmin and Liam have forged a newfound connection to the outdoors and will significantly improve their family's long-term well-being. Their story serves as a roadmap for those looking to infuse a touch of modern technology, bespoke design, and thoughtful interior design into their homes.Ask our daylight expertsFeeling inspired? See how Vario by VELUX can transform any space with our Design A Rooflight tool, or Book a Call with our daylight experts today to discover how we can help you.Please note: Our installation service is currently only available in selected southern areas of the UK.

Our Bikehangar Rentals Scheme was first taken on by the London Borough of Hackney in July 2013.Each Bikehangar provides six spaces to securely store bicycles with each space available for residents to rent. The award-winning design is an effective way to protect bikes from theft and tough weather conditions where outdoor storage space is limited. This made the Bikehangar an ideal solution for Hackney Council to offer its residents, where space is at a premium.The success of the scheme has thrived since it small beginnings. In 2016, we were delighted to mark the 150th Bikehangar to be installed in the borough with a customised unit. The special edition Bikehangar, which provides cycle parking for six bikes – was commissioned by Hackney Council and features a customised design conceived by London street artist Tony Driver. It was great to be able to collaborate with a local street artist on this project.To date, we have installed 308 Bikehangars in the London Borough of Hackney (including Hackney Homes) providing 1,848 secure cycle parking spaces.Hackney Council are eager to become one of the most cycle-friendly boroughs in London, therefore reaching this milestone is something to be incredibly proud of. This is a great reflection of the thriving London cycling culture, with one in six people cycling, and more than half a million journeys made by bike every day. The capital has gained huge momentum in the development of its cycle infrastructure over the past few years, going beyond simply painting blue cycle lanes on busy roads and actually creating fully segregated cycle superhighways. Our Bikehangars dotted around the city are just one example of this hard work.

The Rednock School in Dursley in Gloucestershire won the people’s choice and awards for sustainability and architectural excellence in the RIBA Regional Town & Country Awards. Wings emanate from a central red hub, designed to be energy-efficient and natural light and airy.So pioneers of transforming the ‘beacon of sustainable school design’ called in experts to design and install their planned multi-use games area (MUGA) and keep the school open while still pushing forward design boundaries.The SolutionThe 1,400-pupil school turned to artificial sports surfaces specialists AP Thompson and MUGA manufacturer Zaun to provide it with a multi-functional state of the art sports pitch.With limited space and the need to keep open throughout the works, contractors built the new school on the old playing fields then demolished the old buildings to make way for the new MUGA.Zaun recommended its Duo6 Sports fencing with fixings every 200mm instead of 400mm. Each fixing point uses a rubber EPDM insert that insulates the panel from the post and reduces rattle during play to a minimum. This is a solution Zaun has developed for schools to minimise noise from outdoor pitches distracting classes being taught indoors.Clever siting of goal recesses makes the MUGA ideal for a full size international standard football pitch or four concurrent 5 a side matches across the width. In addition, Zaun incorporated gates at strategic locations and 4.4m high fencing behind the goal areas to improve ball retention.After four decades, the reincarnation of the school cost £38 million in total and includes a TV studio able to broadcast live to every corner of the school.

LDA Design specified WoodBlocX Landscaping to provide the raised planters and seating for the courtyard areas of its Westpoint Homes project; One Hyndland Avenue, a development comprising of 63 luxury apartments with beautifully landscaped outdoor spaces in Glasgow’s West End.The design LDA created for the development featured a series of open paved spaces, ample seating and pergolas to add height, with large angular raised planters with integrated seating bordering the perimeters of the site to plant trees, shrubs and plants.Following a consultation with LDA on potential solutions, the WoodBlocX design team took the initial plans and recreated the original footprint using CAD designs of the modular timber blocks. Thanks to the versatility of the system WoodBlocX were able to match the design almost identically, incorporating the shapes and angles of the original outline.WoodBlocX supplied all materials directly to the Westpoint Homes’ site and the structures were assembled by their own teams. The space for materials on site was tight and the size of the planters meant that a large quantity of materials were delivered. WoodBlocX components arrive on site neatly palletised and the individual lightweight pieces are easy to access and manoeuvre when needed.All WoodBlocX structures are built in the same way using a series of light weight blocks which have been pre-drilled and then treated to provide superior strength - there is no waste or cutting needed.With all projects challenges can arise during the build, in this case some onsite changes were required due to manholes and water access getting in the way of original design. Our team swiftly redesigned instructions and supplied suitable components to match the change.

Pathfield School, a specialist-maintained SEN school in Barnstaple, Devon, has increased its pupil numbers for the new academic year.To help accommodate these extra pupils, the school has had a brand new, purpose-built building constructed by Wernick Group with the project being managed by Principal Contractor Mercury Construction.To complement the impressive interior of the new building, the school have provided students with a dedicated, outside play space to promote physical development, friendships, as well as social and emotional development.The initial project involved installing two free-standing mono-pitch canopies spanning a total of 57 square metres and a walkway spanning 66 square-metres around the new building. Twinfix were approached by Mercury Construction to design, manufacture, and install these structures.Once the building was complete and realising the benefits that a playground canopy could add to their outdoor area, the school approached Twinfix to provide them with a further canopy spanning a total of 43 square-metres.All the canopies have aluminium frames powder coated in anthracite grey RAL 7037. As this metal doesn’t rust in use, they will keep their good looks throughout their long life.The roof glazing consists of Twinfix Multi-Link-Panels NF fitted with tough 25mm multiwall polycarbonate. The NF denotes that these panels conform to the HSE’s recommended drop test ACR[M]001:2019, as recommended by HSG33.Avril Burrows, Premises Manager at Pathfield commented on the new canopies: “It looks absolutely amazing, and I am very happy! The installers made sure everything was clear and clean before they left, and the results are great. I think the students will be very happy with them.”

When Liverpool’s leading specialist heart and chest hospital trust wanted to set-up a drive through COVID-19 testing facility, Twinfix were approached by Actua to find a solution to provide shelter within their client’s COVID 19 testing pick up points.The area was a small courtyard and the proposal was to create a turning circle where vehicles could drive in and pick up their testing kit and drive out, the canopy would provide shelter for the vehicles whilst doing so.There were further complications as the area is also used for general hospital deliveries therefore meaning the height of the canopy needed to facilitate lorry/wagons.With the hospital’s requirements in mind, Twinfix designed two bespoke structures spanning a total of 82 sqm:Section 1: Free standing duo-pitch canopy completely independent of the building·Section 2: Wall mounted lean-to mono-pitch canopy with vertical glazed screen to side & front elevation.Section 1 comprised of galvanised steel posts with upper aluminium sub-frame roof, whereas, the full structure of Section 2 was manufactured in aluminium.Both structures were fitted with our non-fragile Multi-Link-Panel roof-glazing system glazed with 25mm clear polycarbonate.Joe Astley, Capital Projects Officer at LHCH commented: “The trust is very pleased with the services received. From a quick turnaround in manufacturing to a trouble free and speedy installation, Twinfix did a great job at LHCH.”These canopies not only look great, but also utilise the outdoor space providing shelter for patients and staff throughout the testing process.

The ChallengeInstalled within the reception hall and circulation areas of the two towers, Pyroguard Protect, which was chosen by fire protection specialists, Pyrometal, has helped architect Ateliers Jean Nouvel achieve his ambitious vision, without compromising on safety.Following the successful testing, Pyroguard Protect was installed throughout DUO-1 and DUO-2.In the reception hall, Pyroguard Protect EI120 was fitted inside PYROTEK steel profiles to form full height glass partitions and in the circulation areas on each floor, around 690 square metres of E30 was used inside double-leaf doors with EI60 glass partitions.The same was also used in the corridor doors as a means of compartmentation, which connects various areas to the stairs and lift landings.The SolutionTours Duo rises on a former industrial site on the edge of the River Seine in the Paris Rive Gauche district and at 180 m, DUO-1 is set to be the third tallest building in the capital.The pair of towers, DUO-1 and DUO-2, which lean to form an impressive asymmetrical ‘V’, will house offices, retail spaces, restaurants, a hotel and a top floor panoramic bar.In the design of the mixed-use scheme, Ateliers Jean Nouvel was tasked to create high performing, aesthetically striking buildings and as such, decided to take a bioclimatic approach to reduce energy use and make the most of the outdoor weather conditions.Giving the best protection for people and property, Pyroguard Protect provides integrity and heat insulation for 30 to 180 minutes (EI classification).The solution also provides 1B1 impact classification without the need for additional counterpanes, high performing acoustic properties and peace of mind throughout the lifespan of the product due to its UV stability.

The new part of Sct. Hans hospital, designed by KHR Architecture and Rubow Arkitekter, is a beautiful example of the healing architecture of our time. The total 20,700 m² building contains a brand new forensic psychiatric department with 126 beds. The architecture is based on the beautiful surroundings in a hilly and varied terrain that slopes down towards Roskilde Fjord. The new part of St. Hans Forensic Psychiatry incorporates the surrounding nature into the architecture, where the location of the buildings is adapted to the landscape's topography, so that the buildings become part of the landscape and the landscape a part of the building. Throughout the project, there has been an intensive focus on creating healing architecture based on the latest knowledge in the field.Nature and light have a documented positive impact on patients' well-being and Sct. Hans is therefore built into the landscape in a way that ensures beautiful views both from patient rooms and corridors and common areas. There is never a view from one patient room to the other, and high-placed windows provide a view even for bedridden patients.Throughout the construction, nature has been thought of, where wood in both interior design and furniture creates a sense of homeliness, sensuousness, and presence. Nature is constantly drawn into the building via large windows and window sections from floor to ceiling. Outside, fantastic sensory gardens, outdoor activity areas as well as gardens and spaces for quietness and reflection have been created.Hudevad has delivered Our P5 Vertical in a beautiful, muted color for installation in the beautiful wooden panels that create warmth and coziness in many of the building's rooms. Our white P5 Vertical adorns many of the long corridors and ensures that the cold draft from the large windows is limited.

Yoko Ono Lennon Centre is a unique teaching and performance building at the University of Liverpool. It has been designed by Liverpool School of Architecture graduates based at UK architecture practice Ellis Williams.The new facility includes The Tung Auditorium – a world class music performance space – together with two large lecture theatres, seminar rooms, café space, a public facing linear park and a new outdoor space for the University.With a floor area totalling around 6500m2 the building was planned around a careful understanding of the site and an innovative response to a challenging brief.PROJECT INFOThe lecture theatres were arranged vertically, which allowed for a much smaller building footprint – freeing up the site to deliver a linear public park alongside the main arterial route adjacent to the south elevation. This also allowed for large volume and height of Tung Auditorium to be placed adjacent to the teaching spaces, separated by the main atrium circulation space. Externally, the building’s form and materials relate to the robust architecture of some of Liverpool’s historic civic buildings and dockside architecture.The University of Liverpool was the original “red brick University” so the use of that material may seem obvious. The facing brick selected was Forterra’s Butterley Farmstead Antique.The bricks here are more than decorative however, they are a key part of the acoustic strategy and were selected for their density as well the colour and tone.The large inward looking spaces of the theatres by definition are without external windows and openings. The curved forms to the corners are used to both soften the impact of the mass (accentuated by the use of double stacked protruding bricks to catch the sun), and as a nod to the curves used in prominent corner buildings that can be seen across Liverpool.

THE CLIENTThe Novotel Leicester is a modern hotel in the heart of the city, convenient for business or leisure guests. The hotel boasts easy access to many of Leicester most exciting attractions, close to the Leicester Tigers Stadium and King Power Stadium, the National Space Centre and The Curve Theatre. THE CHALLENGETo provide shading to expand their outdoor dining area for the NINEB Restaurant, as well as added brand visibility with the addition of sign writing on the awning and side blindsTHE SOLUTIONThe Markilux Pergola was chosen for the frame and roof, with the addition of Markilux 790 side blinds to offer additional wind protection, partitioning and brand awareness.Markilux PergolaThe Markilux Pergola awning shelters large areas from the sun. Two slender support posts at the front provide excellent stability, even during showers, and unobtrusive lateral guide tracks. The pitch of Markilux Pergola is easily adjustedMade to measure and manufactured in GermanyRated for wind speeds up to 30mph (Beaufort 6)Water resistant, dirt proof, non fading acrylic fabric with UPF 50+ sun protection4 frame colours and hundreds of fabrics choices as standardChoice of electric or remote control operationExtended product and workmanship guarantee availableMarkilux 790The Markilux 790 is simple to operate and has a compact cassette which fits to the wall vertically. It extends manually and fixes to a freestanding post or bracket fixture on a fence railing.Made to measure and manufactured in GermanyWater resistant, dirt proof, non fading acrylic fabric with UPF 50+ sun protection4 frame colours and hundreds of fabrics choices as standardExtended product and workmanship guarantee available

In this case study, we take a look at the amazing project undertaken by Allium Landscapes, as they were tasked by their clients with converting a garden into a haven of safe play for their young children. The objective was clear: create a secure play area that encourages imaginative play without compromising on safety.To achieve this goal, Allium began researching to identify the most suitable safety surfacing option to install beneath a wooden climbing frame and slide. After detailed research and discussions with their clients, they arrived at the decision that a wet pour rubber surface would be the most suitable solution, blending safety and aesthetics seamlessly. They opted for this superb rubber surfacing solution to ensure;Reduced risk of injuries: The top priority was to reduce the risk of fall-related injuries and wet pour rubber safety surfacing was deemed the ideal choice for this purpose.Low maintenance: Allium wanted a solution that would stand the test of time and the unpredictable British weather. Wet pour rubber is highly resistant to weather elements including rain, wind and UV rays, ensuring year-round usage without the hassles of regular maintenance.Stability and non-slip: Allium understood the importance of providing a stable, non-slip surface conducive to running, jumping and all other kinds of play.The Wet Pour Rubber Installation ProcessThe journey to achieve a safe and visually appealing play space began with the excavation of the existing grass and soil surface. In its place, a strong sub-base was prepared to provide a solid foundation for the rubber surfacing. This crucial step helps to ensure the stability and longevity of the play area.Next, SBR rubber was mixed with our rubber resin binder in a forced action mixer. This mixture was then laid and trowelled onto the prepared sub-base. The thickness of the SBR base determines the critical fall height rating of the rubber surface, so it is highly recommended that you plan carefully to ensure your new surface provides a suitable CFH rating for the play equipment it is under.Following this, the Reseda Green wet pour rubber was mixed together with our specialist rubber crumb resin binder in a forced action mixer. The skilled team then hand-trowelled this attractive 15mm top layer onto the SBR base, creating a seamless and resilient surface beneath the climbing frame and slide. The unique green colour adds an inviting touch to the garden.With the safety surface in place and fully cured, the installation of the climbing frame and slide followed. The team followed the manufacturer's instructions to ensure that all components were securely fastened and the frame was level, stable and firmly anchored to the floor using anchors in the rubber surface. These additional safety measures provided complete peace of mind to the clients, knowing that their children were not only protected by the rubber safety surface but also by a sturdy and securely anchored climbing frame.Project OutcomeThe transformation achieved in the client's garden is nothing short of astonishing. Their children now have a safe, durable and visually appealing play surface beneath a new wooden climbing frame and slide. With the wet pour rubber surface in place, the family can now enjoy the outdoors without worry, knowing that their children are shielded during their outdoor adventures. Allium Landscapes went above and beyond to deliver the garden that the clients had requested.We would like to thank Allium Landscapes for selecting us as their supplier for the wet pour rubber surface and for sharing the photos of this exceptional installation allowing us to produce this case study.Should you have any questions regarding wet pour rubber surfacing or any of our other product offerings, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us. We're here to assist you every step of the way.

Scotland’s Largest Single Office Building with Rooftop Running Track and 360 Panorama.A Sustainable and Futureproof Roof, Harnessing the Power of the OutdoorsBothwell Street in Glasgow is now home to an exceptionally progressive office space – making way fora new chapter in the rich history of the area. If there are any doubts about what Grade A office spacereally means, then think touchless entry, bike storerooms, lux changing facilities, an 8,000 sq. ft roofterrace, a 150-metre rooftop running track, 4 activity zones/terrace spaces and panoramic views.The project complements the sustainable regeneration programme along the Clyde Waterfront also,home to the new financial Northern European hub, firmly cementing the business district at the heart ofmodern Glasgow.GOALSThe architects at Sheppard Robson have made sure sustainability and lifecycle credentials remaincentral to the design specification. Occupants’ wellbeing has been carefully considered with a stunningpanoramic rooftop and 150m running track and general outdoor employee wellness facilities.A roofing solution was required to support the lifecycle of the building along with an excellentproduct reputation for this distinguished office space. Given the quality, longevity and environmentalconsiderations required from the roofing design, the insulation properties and warranty performancewere extremely important from the outset.CHALLENGESOur Technical department assisted the architectural and construction teams to resolve numerouscomplex design elements across the varied roof zones including running track, ballast walkways, greenzones, and pedestal zones, to determine the best roofing solution.Installation of the Davit Arm System for a building of this scale was especially important so personnel canbe safely suspended whilst working at height. This presented us with a unique challenge in providing aworkable solution that aligned with the sequence of works, whilst facilitating future routine inspection ofits base plates, and maintaining waterproof integrity without compression.Careful planning and detailing were required around roof penetrations to minimise aesthetical impact,and roof equipment was safely installed above the roof assembly.SOLUTIONThe construction comprises a composite concrete slab receiving our Hot Melt Hydrotech Waterproofing System. Offering a true lifecycle – Hydrotech high performance waterproofing, through its’ unique characteristics and installation process, now forms part of the building fabric. The result offers complete watertightness for the lifetime of the building.The building is also insulated to a high u-value target offering exceptional thermal performance and achieving a high kPa rating. This was essential to receive loadings from all components including overlying finishes, roof equipment and the end use for the building occupants.Key fire performance standards were achieved throughout including the lift overrun and lower roof terrace areas where the preferred solution was switched to our Derbigum sustainable warm roof system to maintain project performance targets.LIFECYCLE MANAGEMENTDesigned with BREEAM credentials and an EPC rating coming in at below 10 the careful focus on lifecycleconsiderations and the choice of materials throughout the building envelope is exemplary.Hydrotech hot melt is a high-performance solution containing 30% recycled content and zero productfailures in over 50 years, offering lifetime peace of mind, designed for the service life of the roof.PROJECT DATACompletion: Autumn 2022Building Type: Commercial OfficeProduct Application: Hydrotech & Derbigum waterproofing systemsCertification: BBA Approved, European Technical Approval & FM Global Class 1Architect: Sheppard RobsonMain Contractor: HFD Group

Gripsure decking has been used on an office roof terrace in the heart of the City of London’s financial district. Workers in the tall building in Fenchurch Street, home to many corporate offices and company headquarters, can now take time out on a stylish, non-slip decking area.Gripsure supplied 586 of the MOSO® Bamboo X-treme with black Gripsure non-slip inserts and a smooth finish for the project, completed last year. The private roof terrace serves as a ‘breakout area’ for office staff to relax, meet and entertain in an outdoor setting, which has fantastic views over the Thames.The existing timber deck had come to the end of its service life and risks of slips and falls had meant that the terrace area had to be closed. Contractors MJ Ferguson stripped away the old boards and installed 150m sq of MOSO® Bamboo X-treme with Gripsure decking. These sustainable, durable boards are Euroclass B fire rated, providing further peace of mind.Company staff have already been making the most of their new safe, contemporary-looking rooftop terrace, which can be used in all weather conditions.Gripsure have been supplying bamboo decking to the UK market for the past four years as a sustainable alternative to composite and tropical hardwood products. There are thousands of species of bamboo and our decking is made from a giant species, called Moso. This bamboo is a woody perennial, so has more characteristics in common with a timber, rather than a grass. Like grass, however, Moso grows rapidly – up to a metre a day in the height of the season. There has also been a carbon study, which shows that the product is a net carbon sink over its lifespan, even taking into consideration transportation and manufacturing.

The Wave is a world class inland surfing lake set in the Gloucestershire countryside on the outskirts of Bristol. The Wavegarden Cove technology is capable of producing one thousand waves per hour, creating perfect surf for professionals and beginners alike. We worked closely with APG Architecture to find just the right decking for this exciting project. After visiting a number of sites where our boards are performing well in a similar environment, the design team specified Gripsure Classic. These boards feature three non-slip inserts giving an initial PTV of 100 which is the highest rated product in the range. The design team wanted to ensure the safety of surfers as they transitioned from dry and wet zones on the site. An APG Architect commented "Our biggest concern was safety and Gripsure managed to solve that". The Wave's mission is to get people back outdoors, enjoying physical activity and connecting with nature. Sustainability is at the heart of the project, with materials chosen for aesthetic beauty and low impact on the natural environment. Gripsure uses sustainable Scandinavian Vth grade European Redwood timber, carrying FSC or PEFC third party accreditation. Gripsure non-slip decking were installed on the central pier, giving guests the opportunity to watch the surfers in the lake. The clubhouse also features a first-floor terrace, with panoramic views of the site, making it an ideal spot to enjoy refreshments. Gripsure Classic was also used for boardwalks and seating areas in the nature reserve by the lake. Gripsure supplied a variety of sub-contractors on the site, making a number of deliveries throughout the build. They provided cutting advice, recommended spans and supplied lengths to minimise wastage. The team at Gripsure visited the site shortly after it opened in November 2019 for their team day and were delighted to see the finished project (and have a go, of course!)

The £30 million Barbara Hepworth Building at the University of Huddersfield houses the School of Art, Design and Architecture for the University. Named after the famous Yorkshire-born sculptor, this new addition to the campus represents an excellent achievement in modern architecture and can be found by the side of the canal that runs through the University.Working closely with Morgan Sindall Construction and AHR Architects, OOBE were tasked to deliver a landscape masterplan for the new addition to the University’s campus. The brief was to design a landscape that fitted seamlessly with the industrial context of the building and natural nearby environment, whilst providing opportunities for students and faculty to socialise.OOBE incorporated the significant level changes between the building and canal into the design, developing several terrace spaces into this previously underused space. The internal environment also inspired the landscape design, which includes a new plaza and sculpture court that wraps around the building, helping showcase the University’s innovation and creativity.As a neighbour of the University of Huddersfield, with our head office being only five miles away, Marshalls has been a proud supplier for a large number of the University’s outdoor spaces for years, and we are thrilled to supply our British-made Modal Concrete Paving for the hard landscaping around this new, iconic building.We spoke to Mike Goodall, the Director of OOBE, about their work on the canal-side and his choice of materials “We had to make sure that the landscape design for the canal side sat in harmony with this award-winning building, its surroundings and wider masterplan proposals, including work around the main entrance carried by other landscape architects. By incorporating the same high-quality, durable landscaping materials used across the campus from Marshalls, it was great to find the right product from their range of options that complemented the building and helped bring to life this vastly inspirational space.”

Plaza 13 stands on a space previously occupied by an old industrial warehouse. A residential development designed by the Bueso-Inchausti & Rein architecture studio, this 3,566m² complex comprises 14 apartments spread over four floors, four of which are penthouses with private garden and swimming pool. In order to keep a flexible interior layout, Bueso-Inchausti & Rein decided to maintain a geometric uniformity in the complex, with a facade that is almost entirely glazed, fitted with the O-Box system as a solar control solution to optimize sunlight and heat.This was an ambitious and daring project aiming to create a distinguished product with clear floor heights of 3.5m. In this context, the Bandalux outdoor O-Box roller blind systems offer a simple and elegant esthetic solution for the facade, as well as exquisite solar control to create maximum comfort inside the spacious apartments with floor-to-ceiling windows.The O-Box technical blind has an attractive cylindrical box and an aluminum side guide that binds the fabric. To fulfill the project requirements, Bandalux developed a cylindrical handrail, which limits the run of the blind and creates the impression of a floating rail.The O-Box system works like a double skin for the apartment windows, ensuring an excellent compromise between thermal efficiency and visual comfort thanks to the Polyscreen 550 Pearl fabric with a 5% openness factor. A fabric with a high resistance to extreme weather conditions and chlorine which, from outside, contributes to significant energy savings in terms of heating and air conditioning inside. The Polyscreen 550 Pearl fabric is also easy to clean, as it can be simply wiped with a damp cloth, and no harmful elements are used during the manufacturing process.Bueso-Inchausti & Rein works in the field of architecture and urban planning, specializing in residential and tertiary projects. Its buildings are spread across Spain, Romania, USA, Mexico and Switzerland.

In a recent project, Twinfix displayed their commitment to excellence through the installation of eight free-standing semi-curved canopies spanning 302 square meters at Cheswick Green Primary School in Solihull. Tailored for functionality and aesthetic appeal, the canopies feature the innovative Multi-Link-Panel Non-Fragile roofing system glazed with 10 mm clear multiwall polycarbonate. The aluminium structure, ensuring both durability and a sleek finish, is meticulously powder coated to RAL 7040, imparting numerous benefits to the canopies.Powder coating enhances the durability of the aluminium, providing a robust protective layer against weathering, corrosion, and UV radiation. This not only ensures a longer lifespan for the canopies but also minimises maintenance requirements, making them a sustainable and cost-effective choice for educational institutions like Cheswick Green Primary School.Beyond their structural integrity, these barrel-vault canopies offer a multitude of benefits. The Non-Fragile roofing system enhances safety, meeting stringent standards. Simultaneously, the 10 mm clear multiwall polycarbonate glazing fosters inviting covered outdoor spaces, flooded with natural light.Their design not only adds a touch of modernity but also elevates the visual appeal of the school. Twinfix’s canopies seamlessly blend functionality with elegance, creating structures that are both safe and aesthetically pleasing.The recent installation at Cheswick Green Primary School exemplifies the company’s commitment to innovation and delivering top-tier solutions. Collaborating effectively with E Manton Ltd, Twinfix has created structures that not only meet the highest standards of functionality but also stand as symbols of excellence in both design and execution. As Twinfix continues to set new standards in canopy solutions, this project stands as a testament to their ability to create transformative and visually captivating spaces.

Woolston Sixth Form College forms part of Woolston Learning Village, which also includes neighbouring schools Green Lane Special School and Fox Wood Special School. The college educates & supports students aged 16 – 19 years old who have a range of additional needs.Following the installation of a number of Twinfix canopies at Green Lane Special school over the last eight years, Twinfix were approached by Woolston College to design, manufacture and install canopies on two separate occasions over the last two years.The initial project involved fitting a twenty-five sqm canopy with vertical glazing to one of the classrooms at the site. The vertical glazing offered weather protection and an element of privacy for the students using the canopy.The College was so impressed with the process and the installed canopy that they requested a second canopy spanning thirty-two sqm a few months later.Both canopies have aluminium frames powder coated in blue RAL 5010. As this metal does not rust in use, they will keep their good looks throughout their long life. The structures comprise of Twinfix’s innovative Multi-Link-Panel Non-fragile (NF) roof glazing system fitted with tough 16mm opal multiwall polycarbonate. The NF denotes that these panels conform to the HSE’s recommended drop test ACR[M]001:2019, as recommended by HSG33.With safety of the students being paramount, protective foam pads were fitted to each supporting post to guard the children from bumps and bangs and anti-climb guttering was also included in the design for both structures.Not only do the new canopies provide additional safe space for students to play and learn, but it also enabled them to reap the benefits that come with being outdoors.

Style’s glazed folding wall system, the Stylefold 120, was recently installed at Clarksons Port Services’ new offices in Aberdeen, allowing a highly functional meeting room to be quickly created at one end of a large open-plan area. When not required, the wall can easily be folded back to merge the room seamlessly into the larger space.A leading expert in moveable wall systems, Style offers an extensive range of solutions for almost any location, including being the sole UK distributor for Dorma Hüppe, as well as for the revolutionary Skyfold vertical rising wall range.The Stylefold 120 folding wall installed at Clarksons is a simple, yet very effective solution for rapidly dividing space, with the glass panels maximising natural light whilst still delivering a 31dB acoustic rating for privacy. Clarksons Port Services is a division of Clarksons, the world’s leading integrated shipping services group. Having moved to larger premises at Aberdeen Harbour’s Matthew’s Quay, with a view to increasing efficiency and reducing carbon footprint, the integrated shipping and offshore services provider now has 1,600 sq metres of outdoor storage and 2,000 sq metres of customs bonded warehouse at this site.Style worked closely with architects, Philip Rodgers Design, and contractor, TransForm, to deliver a partitioning solution for the new offices that successfully combines functionality with exceptional aesthetics. Making minimal impact on the existing structure, the Stylefold 120 is easy to install wherever an economical retrofit solution is required. “The Stylefold 120 folding wall is smooth and effortless to manoeuvre, whilst the anthracite finish specified at the Aberdeen offices perfectly complements the contemporary interior design,” said David Louden, Style’s director for Scotland.“The addition of an integrated pass door means that it is entirely practical to leave the private meeting room in situ for long periods, if desired.”