"research and development"

Several disciplines are going to be joining forces under one roof in the future university centre for dentistry (UZB) in Basel. A centre of dentistry competence ranging from basic care to research and teaching is being built. Every year, dentists, dental and preventive care assistants and dental hygienists will be administering more than 80,000 treatments in the 5-storey building.The staircases were a key area of focus on this project, both for architectural reasons and in light of the strict sound insulation requirements. All staircases and landings have a bare architectural concrete finish. Compliance with the requirement of an impact sound level delta ΔLn,w* of 28 dB was mandatory in order to protect the quiet areas (e.g. treatment rooms, lecture halls, library, etc.) from distracting noise.Products from the Schöck Tronsole® range have been implemented for acoustic insulation. These impact sound insulation products enable a structural connection of the staircases and landings with no acoustic bridges whatsoever. Correct planning and installation of Schöck Tronsole® in a system results in a blue line visible at the treated areas. It is the mark of quality for reliable impact sound insulation and acoustic bridge-free installation.

As a key part of the University of Lancaster's Preston Campus, the £32 million Engineering Innovation Centre provided the university and Lancashire based manufacturers with state-of-the-art teaching and research facilities. This helps to train an extra 500 graduates, including an increasing number of female students, gaining degrees in subjects such as mechanical, energy technologies and aerospace engineering. Throughout the entire project, there were a number of technical challenges that needed to be met. These include the building's proximity to a very busy roundabout, the floor to floor heights, physical security, the expected levels of solar gain as well as design detailing requirements. Having a total glazed area of 3,100m2, the aluminium curtain wall carries over 40 different types of IG units, along with high density foam inserts utilised alongside decoupling joints in the mullion section - achieving 50 Dnfw flanking sound reduction, as well as 37 dB sound reduction for noise outside the building. In addition to achieving high levels of thermal insulation, being fabricated from aluminium, the curtain walling frame elements can be recycled, helping to achieve the BREEAM rating of Excellent.

Eikon Design has successfully undertaken a major renovation of the Spirit AeroSystems main reception area, creating a stylish, energised space that integrates perfectly with the new corporate branding on its recently completed, world-class £28m Aerospace Innovation Centre.Spirit AeroSystems is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of Aerostructures for commercial airplanes, defence platforms, and business and regional jets. Eikon Design won the contract to design and project manage the reception area renovation.From the start, the designer felt that the refurbished reception area needed to reflect the dynamism and vitality projected by the Innovation Centre. The designers first thoughts were that they had to explore ways of using quality lighting and natural daylight on surfaces to create an impressive, engaging experience for visitors.The colour scheme - The designer Susan Anderson chose a neutral colour scheme that would reflect that used on the exterior of the Aerospace Innovation Centre, which was predominantly silver and grey. Surfaces – HARMONY pre-fixed slatted acoustic felt . Susan wanted to bring the reception area to life with surfaces that had different textures, depending on the light available and where the visitor stood in the room. After researching the market, Susan chose the Harmony ribbed-felt wall acoustic panels which Saxen sourced from the manufacturers, Soundtect. They were the perfect solution – grey fibre slats on a black acoustic sheet, as they had the structure, texture and colour she was looking for. Plus they were hypoallergenic and non-toxic, with up to 1.0 NRC (noise reduction co-efficient) – and a totally sustainable addition to the project, having been manufactured third-generation from recycled PET.The PET (polyethylene terephthalate) bottles are first recycled into exhibition carpets and then, at the end of their short second life, converted again into highly efficient acoustic felt by carefully re-layering the fibres to use as the core for this impressive, elegant, ribbed acoustic treatment.The Harmony panels are manufactured with fireproofing built-in, because the original carpet fibres were already fireproof so this critical safety component is integral to the product and not simply sprayed on. The Cause was responsible for fitting all the ribbed Harmony wall panels.The wooden wall panels behind the reception desk were dated, so the designer decided to repurpose them.- they were prepped, base coat applied and sprayed with two beautiful tones of metallic silver by Scottish Architectural Spray painters. Visual contrast was provided by prepped and coated matt white wall areas. LightingHaving found the perfect panelling, the designer had to consider the lighting and the role it would play. She worked with Seren Lighting, using a combination of existing products and bespoke lighting in ways which were both innovative and functional – using light to define spaces and surfaces. Depending on the way they were lit – whether artificial light, natural light or a mixture of both – the texture on the Harmony panels created subtly different moods. Also, as there is a fair amount of daylight flooding into the reception, the atmosphere of the whole space changed with the passing of time and the amount of daylight with both the ribbed and silver metallic panels creating different atmospheres depending on where you stood. All the lights installed in the project follow ‘circular economy’ principles and can be cost-effectively maintained and serviced – parts can be replaced with no need to throw the whole light away and buy a new one. The reception deskFor most of the day in summer and for short periods in winter, the reception area is flooded with natural light from two sides, so lighting the reception desk workstation needed a careful response.The workstation was located behind the reception desk, so using standard lighting methods would have detracted from the overall impression and been unnecessary for long periods. In developing the solution, the designer followed the basic principle, ‘put light where you want it, when you need it’. So an LED ultra-effect strip in diffuse profile was used under the top surface of the reception desk which threw a subtle light onto where the receptionist was working on the computer. The receptionist can switch this strip on or off as appropriate.The Cause remodelled and reformatted the reception desk to the design, which involved removing the angled elements and large posts, and replacing them with a concealed door. They also fitted the reception desk surface with a stylish, matt, dark-grey laminate, installing the lighting, graphic panel and ribbed panelling to the front. The panelling’s flexibility ensured a perfect fit around the curve in the reception desk.The reception desk skirting was painted the same colour as the staircase handrail.The Wing LightsThese were designed to develop the Wing Lights from first principle. The Wing Lights deliver light upwards, so it bounces off the various surfaces to enhance the textures and reflective differences. They also project a visual link to the ‘star’ element of the Spirit AeroSystems logo and took several attempts to create the final geometric shape. However, the Wing Lights now act as dramatic focal point within the space, capturing the essence of Spirit AeroSystems’ business and the designers overall design vision.CeilingThe existing suspended ceiling was off-white in colour, and looked rather tired so it was spray-painted with a dark metallic silver, which transformed the appearance of the ceiling and changed the whole look of the reception area. Lighting the upper-level walkwayThere were issues with uneven wall surfaces on the upper-level walkway. The solution was to apply architecturally inspired Harmony, lit by dramatic custom-made LEDs, to create the total effect – an utterly stunning, modern wall. The lights used were twin gimbal heads – round lights that can swivel in two directions. These were specially adapted from standard lights in the Seren range. The twin gimbal heads were installed in false pockets, clad with ribbed-felt. They provide functional lighting to the walkway, while adding a dramatic effect on the wall panelling.Finally, a pelmet was constructed to conceal a new LED Cob profile, allowing it to wash diffused light between the ribbed features of the Harmony panelling.The panels above the pelmet were spray-painted silver – the same colour as the ceiling – to give a much more dramatic effect.Other features…The wooden bannister handrail was stripped back and layered with different metallic colours to give a changing surface effect with different shadows and highlights. It was then coated in a high-gloss lacquer. This introduced an accent of colour, which also reflected the company’s corporate colours.StructuresDominating the reception area are two high columns, one of which contains a lift. Given the solidity and simplicity of the shapes, the designer decided on a lighting solution that would create an architectural feel, so she used beam-controlled light bars at the top of the structures to project a subtle wash down the full length of the columns.Carpets and furnitureThe existing carpet tiles were removed and upgraded. They were colour coordinated with the new, striking Italian Quadrifoglio furniture, sourced through Saxen. This furniture was the cornerstone of the designers vision vision, and its style, shape, colours and textures tie the space together.ConclusionThe success of the project was very much down to careful planning, creative thought and good people working together. Products used: Freestyle. Harmony

The University of Plymouth aims to invest in the campus to advance knowledge and transform the lives of its students. The 'campus masterplan' intends to ensure first-class learning, research and working environments based on low carbon design. Dart Valley Systems provided products for one of its new buildings, Portland House.The full range of products provided are as follows: ·       13 x AT03-022 Aquarius DM A45 Doc M tap spout only in s/steel with copper tails ·       94 x AT03-012 Aquarius DM A45 tap spout only in s/steel with copper tails·       1 x AC01-001 Handheld programmer with USB interface with case – For use with all DVS programmable sensors & taps The university's objective was to look at water-saving and low usage outlets within the building, keeping with the institute's core sustainability principles in finances, reputation, services, and environmental performance. The DVS Handheld Programmer allows quick and easy adjustment of settings, including run-on time, range, purge and more. Real-time data can be uploaded from the programmer via the USB port to allow accurate monitoring of water efficiency, making this an ideal product for those aiming to be more environmentally friendly. 

Architect: Moses Cameron WilliamsInstaller: Willmott DixonProduct: Gustafs Linear RibThe new Library at the Luton campus of the University of Bedfordshire which opened in June 2016 was designed by Moses Cameron Williams Architects (of Cambridge) and project managed and installed by Willmott Dixon.The University has been around for over 100 years and teaches in a wide range of subject areas as well as conducting award winning research across health, energy and technology, and social policy topics.The library is spread over 7 floors including silent study rooms, group work and meeting spaces, computer labs and presentation facilities and a café as well as miles of bookshelves. Gustafs and LSA Projects supplied over 8,000 linear metres of ribs to the project for both wall and ceiling application covering around 450m2.Over 3,000 individual 28mm deep ribs in natural Oak veneer have been used to clad the impressive open atrium and cafe area as well as throughout the library isles and study spaces. 12mm gaps between ribs give the entire installation depth, texture, and warmth as well as impressive acoustic control; perfect for a busy university library!

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

The RHS’s flagship garden installed its first Changing Places toilet a few years ago, and is eagerly anticipating the opening of its second in June.Nora has Polymicrogyria, and as a result she cannot walk or use standard toilet facilities. Her family have always been determined that her disabilities should not stop her from enjoying the things that her twin sister Layla enjoys, such as going on holiday, swimming, or going to the cinema. For them, having a Changing Places toilet is their No. 1 requirement when researching places to go. That is why they decided to become members of RHS Garden Wisley, which boasts a fully accessible Changing Places toilet next to the Welcome building.RHS Garden Wisley is one of the UK’s best-loved gardens, attracting over a million visitors each year. The garden has expanded hugely over the years to its current size of 97ha (240 acres). With their focus on inspirational gardening – rather than a museum of plants and conservation, the dedicated staff are constantly assessing and updating plants and planting schemes to ensure there’s always something new to excite and inspire. The inclusion of a Changing Places toilet is a testament to this value to share the gardens with all of their visitors.

A busy service corridor in a medical education and research facility, has recently been refurbished with the help of products from Yeoman Shield’s heavy duty range.Wanting to protect vulnerable walls and corners throughout the heavily used service corridor, the facilities management invested in a complete Yeoman Shield heavy duty wall protection system installed by their directly employed fixing operatives.A striking and durable protective finish to the corridor walls was achieved with Yeoman Shield Chequer Plate Wall Panels. The panels were paired with heavy duty Rubber E-Fender running at the top and the bottom of the chequer plate at such levels to absorb impact from the most frequently occurring and heaviest of blows from footfall, trolleys and motorised carts.Yeoman Shield HD75 heavy duty Rubber Protection Angles were fitted full height to vulnerable corners protecting the structure.Designed specifically to protect areas in a building that experiences heavier footfall such as warehouses, storage and service facilities, the heavy duty protection products, when installed, keep areas damage free, providing an easy clean hygienic surface whilst putting an end to frequent costly re-pair and re-painting, offering long term savings on maintenance budgets.

Architect: Page \ ParkInstaller: McLaughlin & HarveyProduct: ‘Shiluvit’ by Oranit400m2 of Shuluvit panels in 7-501 formation and Natural Yellow Pine were installed to the ceilings of the entrance way and cafe area of Kelvin Hall in Glasgow as well as 170m2 of linear acoustic planks in Natural Oak veneer to the main lecture theatre.The facility on historic Argyle street to the west of Glasgow city centre is a thriving community hub. Home to event and lecture space for the public as well as the University of Glasgow and local businesses. Kelvin Hall also houses the Glasgow Museums and the National Library of Scotland, celebrating the country’s history in historic and present literature and manuscripts as well as maps, films, and digital media.In addition to the educational spaces Kelvin Hall also has fitness suites for both adult and child classes as well as a 100 piece gym and multiple sports hall for public and commercial use. New to the facility in 2019 is the public climbing wall activity centre and soft-play for younger community members!The newly refurbished Kelvin Hall is home to parts of the National Library of Scotland, Glasgow Museums, and University of Glasgow research exhibitions as well as the Glasgow Club hosting fitness classes and children’s gymnastics clubs.

With 16 research clusters, one of the largest technology-oriented research landscapes in Europe is being created on the RWTH Aachen Campus. The distinguishing feature of the Bio-Medical Engineering Cluster, which can be seen from great distances, is the new CT2 Center for Teaching and Training of the Medical Faculty of the RWTH Aachen University. As the first investor-financed building in this Cluster, it marks another milestone. In a Europe-wide investor selection process, Frauenrath group of companies, Heinsberg, and the architects from slapa oberholz pszczulny | sop architects, Dusseldorf, won the order with their distinctive concept. They designed the building as a standalone construction that is flooded with light and takes on the role of a gateway to the Campus Melaten thanks to its shape and prominent position. Two of the façades are clad with 1,900 square meters of OMEGA 1520 metal mesh from GKD – Gebr. Kufferath AG.As an elite center of learning, RWTH Aachen University is one of the state’s flagship institutions in higher education. Around 44,500 students, 550 professors, and almost ten times as many research associates help secure the reputation of the RWTH as an internationally renowned university – above all for technical and medical degree programs. Founded in 1870, the university’s campuses are spread across the city. With an unprecedented Excellence Initiative, RWTH Aachen University has been expanding its reputation as one of the world’s leading technical universities since 2009. The RWTH Aachen Campus consists of the Campus Central – with the historic main building and the distinctive Super C meeting center in the shadow of the cathedral and city hall –, Campus Melaten and Campus West. The result is a campus that integrates into urban life. On a total area of 800,000 square meters, 16 research clusters are being built successively to answer future questions arising from the challenges of megatrends. Six of these clusters are already in the course of implementation. These include the Bio-Medical Engineering Cluster in the direct vicinity of University Hospital Aachen. This consists of four centers, each of which is dedicated to a specific field. In these operating units, academics from the Faculties of Medicine, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Natural Sciences collaborate with experts from industry on methods and products that are set to revolutionize both diagnosis and therapy.Visually seamless façadeThe CT2 Center for Teaching and Training is the first investor-financed building in the Bio-Medical Engineering Cluster. The seven-storey building was constructed with an investment volume of around €20 million. By networking theory and clinical practice the building offers state-of-the-art training opportunities for students of Medicine, Dentistry, and Biomedical Engineering. It also sets new standards in the further training of physicians and medical personnel, as well as the testing of medical equipment. The aim here was for the CT² to also reflect this function in terms of its architectural design. The architects from sop designed a cube on the slightly sloping terrain that resembles an inverted “U” thanks to its fully glazed upper façades and thereby has the appearance of a gigantic gateway to the campus located behind it. This impression is underlined by the projecting exposed concrete of the side walls which serves to frame the frontal façade. The lateral façades with ribbon windows along their length are spanned by a shimmering skin made of metallic mesh that creates a visually seamless surface. At the same time, the spaces located behind it remain visible thanks to the transparency of the metal fabric. This shell comprises twelve panels of OMEGA 1520 stainless steel mesh – each measuring 29.5 meters long by 5.4 meters wide. There were several reasons behind the decision to go with the woven membrane. These include the fact that the metallic skin underlines the building’s high-tech aspirations and lends the field of biomedical technology both a contemporary and appropriate face. Interacting with the glass façades, it facilitates communication between the interior and exterior. The attachment type is also in keeping with the philosophy of design purism. In line with the patented Fusiomesh NG system, the upper and lower edge of the stainless steel mesh is embedded in a special adhesive between two flat profiles and thereby bonded. Clamping forks ensure that the mesh can be perfectly aligned and handle the requisite static preload based on the anticipated wind and impact loads. The panels are attached to a continuous steel profile in a way that makes them visible at the bottom. At the top edge of the building, on the other hand, the material is bent over backward, so that only a fine edge of the mesh can be seen here. To reduce horizontal movement and the shearing forces at a façade height of 29.5 meters, seven stainless steel tubes run horizontally behind the mesh as intermediate attachment levels. The mesh is then attached to these tubes from the outside with wire clamps that are invisible once fitted. GKD not only manufactured and assembled the mesh for this project, but also took care of the installation.Efficient contribution to sustainabilityBeside the special aesthetics of the metallic membrane, its functional properties were the key reasons for its selection. For example, the stainless steel shell serves as solar protection that reduces the surface temperature of the façade. Yet despite this, the open mesh structure still allows unrestricted natural daylight into the rooms, as well as clear outward views. As such, it not only contributes to improving the building’s energy balance, but also makes it a more pleasant place to spend time and thereby helps boost employee performance. Since stainless steel can be fully recycled at the end of its useful life, the membrane also supports the sophisticated sustainability concept of the new building. The openness and interaction already visible from outside continue consistently into the atrium housed inside the building that is flooded with light. Numerous bridges and wide galleries allow a wide range of visual connections with all floors. The guiding principle of communication and interdisciplinary collaboration then becomes a reality that can be experienced throughout the entire building. Further highlights include a multifunctional auditorium that can house 400 people, as well as a demonstration operating theater equipped with the latest technologies. As and when necessary, these two functional rooms can be combined with the foyer in the basement to create an end-to-end event area which can, for example, be used for symposia. When operated at maximum capacity, the building can then host up to 1,200 guests. Its shimmering stainless steel mesh façade allows the gateway to the future to be seen from great distances.

Earlier this year we were extremely proud to transform the cycle parking provision for employees and visitors at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust in London.Guy’s and St Thomas’ is one of the largest NHS trusts in England and they are true pioneers in health research with upwards of 500 studies currently running. The trust is renowned for high-quality teaching and education and manages community services across London.Cyclehoop worked in collaboration with TfL to radically update the parking provision for cyclists at the hospital, with the installation of 36 Jan Kuipers Two Tier Bike Racks. Cyclehoop is the official UK supplier of these Dutch Two Tier Racks. This particular product is ideal for areas tight on space as the tiered system means that less floor space is taken up in comparison to traditional racks. This renders the Two Tier the smart option for maximising cycle parking in confined spaces.The racks and the entire project received positive feedback. Sustainability Officer for the trust, Teresa Agudo, was very pleased with the delivery of the project, commenting:“Cyclehoop provided excellent customer service and were very flexible in terms of installation date. The design is really good too.”“Before this installation, there was limited parking facilities for visitors so this makes a huge impact as we have doubled cycle parking space.”

The University of Plymouth aims to invest in the campus to advance knowledge and transform the lives of its students. The ‘campus masterplan’ intends to ensure first class learning, research and working environments that is based around low carbon design. Dart Valley Systems provided products for one of its new buildings, Portland House. The full range of products provided are as follows: • 13 x AT03-022 Aquarius DM A45 Doc M tap spout only in s/steel with copper tails • 94 x AT03-012 Aquarius DM A45 tap spout only in s/steel with copper tails• 1 x AC01-001 Handheld programmer with USB interface with case – For use with all DVS programmable sensors & taps The university’s objective was to look at water saving and low usage outlets within the building, in keeping with the institutes core principles of sustainability in finances, reputation, services and environmental performance. The DVS Handheld Programmer allows quick and easy adjustment of settings including run-on time, range, purge and more. Real time data can be uploaded from the programmer via the USB port to allow accurate monitoring of water efficiency making this an ideal product for those aiming to be more environmentally friendly. 

Oakwood Heights is a new development in Surrey built by Buxworth Homes, a small boutique property developer that specialises in bespoke developments in the South of England.

Marley's Acme Double Camber Clay Plain Tile in Burnt Flame has been used by EAB Homes and Developments Ltd on their award-winning development in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire. EAB Homes is a boutique developer, building exceptional, high-end residential properties. They specialise in the design, development and construction of bespoke family homes for buyers who appreciate the very best, and that's why they chose to use Marley roof tiles on their Buckinghamshire development.

BACKGROUNDThe University of Birmingham is a world top 100 public research university located in Edgbaston. The University required a refit of their entrance hall and foyer for the main entrance and had strict tender criteria, with requirements for superior performance ratings for fire and acoustics.BRIEFWorking closely with main contractor Bouygues UK, MIDDAS conceptualised a bespoke solution for the foyer and main entrance hall that would easily meet the strict tender criteria. The glazed panels and doors would be integrated into third party walls, so the team also needed to coordinate with the incumbent door automation and access control company to ensure all components were engineered to the correct specifications.  SOLUTIONMIDDAS supplied M100 full height fire rated glazed panels and associated framework, with integrated fire rated door sets. In-built connections that did not require any additional site preparation or modifications to function properly were incorporated alongside the required fail-safe protection and finger guards. The offsite manufacture and clean lines provided by the MIDDAS flush fitting solution meant the University realised some additional benefits. Building access for students and staff was required during the refit, and with its pre-formed opening, the MIDDAS panel construction lent itself to quick on-site assembly and minimal disruption during installation. The new bi-panel glazed system enclosed the steel framework, so students could no longer leave items on the glazing rail.

Last summer, we heard from Alex of Tiny Victorian Home on Instagram who reached out to us about her garden decks. Alex explained that they were in need of a makeover and that she really wanted to use a paint to give them a new lease of life.After previously speaking with her followers, she was warned about using paint on her decks as paint finishes always fail. However, after doing some of her own research, Alex then found Owatrol Decking Paint and after reading that it does not peel or flake, she decided to reach out to us for some further information.We recommended that Alex first use Net-Trol to clean her decks (as there were no previous finishes on them she did not need to use a stripping product) and then finish them with Decking Paint once dry. We sent her out a free colour card (which you can also order on our Decking Paint page) which shows off all 35 of our colours, so she could decide which samples she wanted to try.After a little deliberation, Alex decided to try out 3 colours; Traditional Grey, Light Grey and White. After painting the samples on to some off cuts of wood, she decided to go with Traditional Grey.

HALO is an imaginative, innovative and inspirational regeneration initiative to revitalise Urban Cities and Towns of the UK.A first for Scotland is HALO Kilmarnock at the heart of Kilmarnock town center. The HALO project will support the growth and resilience of the Ayrshire economy. HALO will create a dynamic commercial, educational, cultural, leisure and lifestyle quarter of the town, fueled by renewable energy, where people can live, work, learn and play.This multi-faceted regeneration of a 28-acre site, was supplied over £80,000 worth of AG Plaza Paving, TerraKerb® and TerraPave® Step Units to complement the stunning architectural work of the modern building and surrounding areas.David McCandlish Regional Sales Manager at AG stated: ‘This was a major win for AG. We supplied a range of hard landscaping products around the new project. Our Plaza premium granite paving, TerraKerb and TerraPave step units provided the perfect combination of durable paving and modern sleek design for this stunning project.’The focal point of HALO will be an Enterprise and Innovation Hub being created to stimulate digital learning, inspire innovative thinking and provide a conducive environment for spin-out, new-start, scale-ups, digital, manufacturing and cyber businesses.The completed HALO will feature a new Urban Park, surrounded by entrepreneurial businesses in computer technology, cyber research, engineering, fashion, financial services and light manufacturing.

In 2013, the largest and most impressive Wall-Holla in the world was sold to Ketteler Hof - a family-owned Play Park that wanted something truly extraordinary to add to its playground. After extensive research, planning, and customisation tailored to their unique needs, they got exactly what they wished for - an incredible 36m wide Wall-Holla with not one but three thrilling Drop Zone elevators!Turning unused space into a popular family oasisThe Czyżyny Park Avia is an example of how public participation can help create vibrant recreational spaces that benefit the whole community. It provides an opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy nature while engaging in physical activity with friends and family. The park is located in the area of the former bus depot and part of a disused airport where used to be 3 hectares of asphalt and concrete.The playground includes climbing frames, carousels, swings, and a vertical playground Wall-Holla with challenging obstacles that will keep kids entertained for hours. There is also an outdoor gym with Lappset's metal gym equipment.The end result is a very popular recreational family place in the city of Kraków with a nice story still referring to its previous function: planes and buses are part of the pattern on the EPDM surface at the playground.The project was part of THE GREEN CITIES EUROPE AWARD – 2022 and it has been praised for its quality recreational spaces and innovative value.

The University of Edinburgh is the first UK University to install the advanced VelowUp® vertical cycle stands at its MRC Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine department.The Institute, specialising in human molecular genetics and biology research, received a series of 63 of the advanced cycle parking systems enabling visitors and staff members to securely park a bike within the restricted space.The advanced VelowUp® vertical cycle stand was chosen to utilise the limited space available and provide a maximum number of cycle parking spaces which no other cycle rack was able to provide.In addition to the University of Edinburgh, Falco has recently installed another series of 15 VelowUp cycle stands for Valentines Park in the London Borough of Redbridge, allowing visitors of all ages to securely park a bike.VelowUp® Vertical Cycle RackThe VelowUp® is purposely designed to maximise the amount of cycle parking spaces in areas where space is at a premium. The system is designed to save up to 40% more space compared to any other conventional cycle rack or stand. The VelowUp® is easy to install, simple to operate and securely accommodates all types of bicycles.The VelowUp® product video shows this simple but effective cycle parking system in use.For more information about the smart VelowUp® cycle parking system, please contact our helpful sales team on 01538 380080.

A contemporary development in the heart of London. The Christian Street development offers a range of studio, 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments, duplexes and penthouses for contemporary, elegant living. AluK has supplied a range of windows, sliding doors and curtain walling throughout this stunning development.

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