"research and development"

From chic studios and one, two and three-bedroom apartments and luxurious four-bedroom duplex penthouses, each property at The Stage exudes five-star style. To best support the range of properties in The Stage development, Abode supplied both the Pronteau Prostyle 3 IN 1 hot water tap and the Althia Single Lever tap in Graphite. 

The SIPs Cladding Panel has been included as part of the innovative design for the Research Acceleration and Demonstration (RAD) Building at The University of Nottingham.The ProjectThe RAD Building has been designed to achieve BREEAM Excellent and will include Passivhaus measures to reduce energy requirements, providing a comfortable space for users whilst maintaining outstanding energy efficiency.The £7m development, funded by Innovate UK, houses many of the UK’s leading academics in its laboratories, offices and breakout spaces. The 142 mm SIPs Cladding Panel was used in the walls of the iconic 2000 m2 building, in order ton restrict energy demand.The original specification indicated both SIP and, space saving opportunities and quality delivery by qualified installers.Rising to the challengeA multi-disciplinary approach was taken to meet the project’s challenging performance targets including input from building fabric engineers, specialist designers and BREEAM consultants. The use of the SIPs Cladding Panel was essential to maximise space in the laboratory building, whilst maintaining excellent levels of insulation.High performanceIn addition to their excellent thermal performance, the combination of the panel’s OSB/3 facing and unique jointing system also help to limit air loss from the building. This allowed the project team to limit air-leakage to below 0.6 ach@50 Pa.The RAD Building development offered the opportunity for creating a building with a dynamic appearance and unique identity, consistent with the aspirations of the ERA initiative.The use of the SIP Cladding Panel was essential for maximising space in the laboratory building, whilst maintaining excellent levels of insulation.The RAD Building development offered the opportunity for creating a building with a dynamic appearance and unique identity, consistent with the aspirations of the ERA initiative. The use of the SIP Cladding Panel aligns perfectly with these aspirations, due to the panels’ FSC® (FSC®-C109304) certification, which demonstrates sustainable sourcing of construction materials.University of Nottingham RAD Building | Lewis and Hickey Architecture4Awards2019 – Winner | Sustainability Award 2019, East Midlands Celebrating Construction Awards – Celebrating Construction Excellence2019 – Winner | LABC East Midlands Awards Winner & Highly Commended2018 – Winner | EMPD – Sustainable Project of the Year, constructing excellence

As part of an exciting regeneration project in Cardiff, Lowfield Timber Frames specified SMARTPLY AIRTIGHT panels alongside a supply of their timber kits for a development of 12 two-bedroom houses in Heath, Cardiff.As part of an exciting regeneration project in Cardiff, Lowfield Timber Frames specified SMARTPLY AIRTIGHT panels alongside a supply of their timber kits for a development of 12 two-bedroom houses in Heath, Cardiff.The homes are built to strict Passivhaus standards, offering improved health and wellbeing conditions for occupants whilst requiring very low levels of energy for space heating or cooling. Additionally, using timber frame for the construction lowers the carbon footprint of the development.The major benefit of a Passivhaus build is the reduced energy consumption during the operating life of the structure. This will ultimately lead to reduced energy costs, heating bills, and even lower carbon emissions for the planet.The average air test result for the 12 homes came in at below 0.5 ACH. A Larsen truss panel (a lightweight wall extension which creates extra wall space to a house insulation) was also used in the project. It was 330mm deep with the finished wall make-up being closer to 500mm.Darren Jarman, Managing Director of Lowfield Timber Frames, commented: “The Highfields scheme in Cardiff was just one of several passivhaus schemes we have completed over the past 2 years. We now have an external wall build-up that not only meets the passivhaus standards, but also has extremely low embodied carbon credentials.“The external wall has been fire tested and achieves the airtightness required, all in all, reducing the heating requirements and the running costs of the property.”SMARTPLY AIRTIGHT is an airtight OSB/3 panel with integrated vapour control and air barrier properties for use as structural sheathing in timber frame structures. The airtightness is engineered into the OSB panel substrate, whilst the factory applied specialist surface finish technology provides increased and constant vapour resistance on the warm side of construction. The panels are suitable for both new build and renovations.The distinctive green layer of SMARTPLY AIRTIGHT is a UV cured coating providing increased and constant vapour diffusion factor. In addition, it provides a smooth and durable surface for taping the connections.The panels made to OSB/3 grade, are moisture resistant and can be used in humid conditions (service class 2). The hygroscopic nature of the OSB panel acts as a humidity buffer to help prevent interstitial condensation within the timber frame structure in limited cases of reverse diffusion.Jarman concluded: “Whilst there are other products available which will achieve the airtightness, we feel SMARTPLY AIRTIGHT is the most robust solution available and eliminates the possibility of accidental damage, resulting in a failed test.”The ambitious project is part of the ‘Cardiff Living’ programme, a 10-year partnership between Cardiff Council and Wates Residential, which will deliver 1,500 new homes at sites across the city.Discover more about SMARTPLY AIRTIGHT and its applications here: https://mdfosb.com/en/products/smartply-airtightFind out more about Lowfield Timber Frames here: https://www.lowfieldtimberframes.co.uk/Twitter: @LTFltd

The balconies at the Southsea development were targeted for an extensive overhaul, incorporating AliDeck’s Senior Board in Textured Silver Grey alongside the AliClad Flow soffit cladding system, complete with an Extended Gutter. Leading the project as the main contractor, McCarthy & Stone launched a significant six-phase renovation, with Amson Solutions delivering the installation across Phase 1 for our client, Cox Design.

The landmark Health Innovation One building is an innovation hub offering co-location space for external organisations as well as being the new home for Lancaster University’s Medical School and Division of Health Research. The space is designed to encourage collaboration, where external organisations can draw upon the University’s expertise to address significant health challenges and improve health and wealth outcomes in the region and beyond.Architects John McAslan + Partners sought to realise the University’s ambition to establish itself as a major international presence in the field of Health and Medicine through the design of this new HIC. JMP’s campus masterplan will bring together businesses, the NHS, students and academics from a broad range of disciplinary backgrounds. Central to this campus is the Innovation Hub, representing phase one of the development.The scheme comprises a café, quiet reading areas, private meeting rooms, open breakout zones and a business lounge for more formal conversations. Close consultation with the University’s Faculty of Health and Medicine has resulted in a scheme that offers maximum flexibility, the promotion of interdisciplinary working and collaboration, the provision of exceptional working and learning environments, and a holistic building design that is sustainable and energy efficient, targeting an ‘Outstanding’ BREEAM standard.To achieve this performance for the £3M glazing package, fabricator Alucraft working to main contractor BAM Construct, utilised Metal Technology’s System 17 Curtain Walling in a bronze anodised finish and from our Thermal ranges, System 5-20D Doors and 5-20 windows.

A fascinating contrast between authentic stone constructions and modern stainless steel. This apartment development is located in the middle of a leafy area and now features state-of-the-art Q-railing balustrades that empower the its natural looks. The all-glass Juliet balconies are nearly invisible, leaving the attractive stonework on full display. The Easy Glass Pro frameless balcony railings allow for beautiful views of the surroundings. In the interior, Q-railing’s Q-line baluster railing system was installed on the internal staircases.

A small development of new build properties has been completed near Helston in Cornwall, homes which will be exclusively available to local people with long-standing associations with the area. The homes have renewable heating systems installed with Aerona³ air source heat pumps and cylinders all supplied by Grant UK.

AliDeck’s state-of-the-art aluminium balcony solutions are to play a pivotal role in setting new standards for modern living. AliDeck’s Ultra Decking Board and AliRail Plate Fix 0.74kN balustrade option will significantly enhance the balconies at the Seven Mills development with unparalleled safety, style, and functionality, embodying an innovative approach to balcony design.

The Sixfields development is part of the Northampton Brownfield Initiative where a permeable pavement was chosen for the car park which serves the rugby and football clubs. Sitting on the bank of the River Nene, it was evident that any design had to minimise future risk of flooding if it was to be viable. Brett advised on the use of SuDS to minimise the risk of any future flooding on the site. The two car parks, of 19,000m2 and 16,000m2 respectively, were both constructed using Omega Flow permeable paving. To view the whole case study click the link.

Wood burning stoves are needed to offset the high energy prices.With a house building boom due to the lack of housing, plus the combined shock of energy prices – building houses with secondary heating, such as stoves, has returned to the forefront.Wood-burning stoves are now highly efficient and designed to offset any carbon they release into the atmosphere. Eco-friendly, modern stoves are why Rose Builders decided to add stoves and chimneys to their housing development in Lawford Green. In addition, various houses within the site had the option of adding a wood-burning stove with a built-in chimney.

Ravago Building Solution’s BBA certified ultra-thin high-performance extruded polystyrene (XPS) thermal insulation boards has been delivered to 22 Hanover Square, in Mayfair, London, as part of a £50 million project to deliver a new collection of luxury residences. Led by global construction company ISG, the project is set to offer 80 new apartments as part of a multi-level development linked to the 5-star Mandarin Oriental Hotel, offering residents access to exclusive hotel facilities that include a spa, 25m indoor swimming pool, and a rooftop bar overlooking Mayfair.  1200m2 of Ravatherm XPS X ULTRA 300 SL was selected by flat roof insulation specialists Quantum Insulation, keeping in mind that leading roofing company, BriggsAmasco, needed to attain a U-value of 0.12 – a requirement easily met by ULTRA 300 SL. Ravatherm XPS X ULTRA 300 SL is a thermal insulation product designed for inverted flat roofs, offering architects and specifiers the thinnest XPS insulation with a design lambda of 0.028 and declared lambda 0.027 W/mK for the whole thickness range from 70 to 205mm. Paul Davies, Director, Quantum Insulation, said: “Ravatherm XPS X ULTRA 300 SL is the thinnest insulation of its kind, and so presented the ideal solution for this demanding specification. Alongside their product, Ravago offer high-level expertise and superb customer service, both of which were equally vital in getting the insulation from cradle to gate as smoothly as possible”. Tony Lawther, Operations Director, BriggsAmasco, said: “This project came with added logistical challenges, which Ravago were able to overcome with reassuring expertise, anticipating our needs and ensuring on-time Saturday delivery to a quiet site”.  Richard Powell, Roofing Sales Manager, Ravago Building Solutions, added: “Having provided solutions for similar projects in the past, we were confident in meeting both technical and logistical requirements, ensuring the client received timely and safe delivery of the product. We look forward to seeing the final outcome of the development next year”. 

Twin Rundum Original ‘round the corner’ side sliding doors have been manufactured and installed by bespoke garage door specialist Rundum Meir UK as part of the North Quay development in Hayle, Cornwall.Their vision for North Quay is to transform a former industrial area into an exciting new coastal quarter for people to live, work, shop, eat, stay and enjoy the stunning waterside location. Key to this is high quality design by which has already been independently recognised through the project winning in the 2020 Housing Design Awards.Within the first phase of the transformational project, which includes around 140 dwellings and public realm development by FCBStudios, as well as office space and waterside commercial buildings, are two residential units with garages. Rundum Meir was approached to explore the potential for twin bespoke doors with radiused corners at their adjacent edge which would make a statement feature of the garage doors. This design was perfectly suited to the Rundum Original, which slides along a track as it opens sideways before turning a corner to run along an inner side wall of the garage. Equally important, however, was the ability to manufacture the garage door in materials that would enable aesthetic goals to be achieved whilst being suitable for the harsh coastal conditions, dominated by an aggressive saline atmosphere.Rundum Meir was able to use Accoya for the timber slats that make up each of the doors. Accoya is ideal for conditions of this kind, and for meeting the project’s sustainability aims, given its superior durability and FSC accreditation.Marine grade stainless steel was used to create the U-channels which guide the Rundum Original as it slides, along with the PPC tracks and binding. This will ensure the key mechanical elements of the two doors have maximum resistance to corrosion for a long design life.In line with the high specification of all the dwellings under construction, the Rundum Meir garage doors are also automated. A door-mounted motor is activated via a remote control device and it is HomeLink compatible for safe and secure operation from inside a vehicle.

OverviewThe UK’s first dedicated horticultural scientific centre of excellence has opened to the public – protecting the future of plants, people, and the planet at the iconic RHS Garden Wisley, situated in Woking, just 30 minutes outside London. RHS Hilltop has been dubbed The Home of Gardening Science, and at a cost of £35 million, is the largest ever investment in horticultural science. The site boasts 3 purpose-built laboratories, a herbarium and digitisation suite, learning studios & a teaching garden, interactive displays and a world class collection of horticultural exhibits across 3 gardens that brim with ideas that reflect the latest research. RHS Wisley’s library and archive contain rich and varied collections, including botanical art, 28,000 horticultural books & records, which places itself as the most complete record of the UK’s horticultural heritage. PartnershipHAG Ltd. were chosen by Geoffrey Osborne Ltd. to work on RHS Wisley’s impressive and forward-thinking purpose-built space to offer fire protection & security solutions across the site, including in the herbarium and café. With over 35 years of industry experience, and being well known for our quality, integrity, and reliability, we were the perfect choice to offer solutions to fire protection and security needs, meaning a more streamlined experience for the main building contractor. Andy Jasper, Programme Director of the Wisley Strategic Investment Programme:“We are so proud to announce the opening date of RHS Hilltop – The Home of Gardening Science. Working so closely and collaboratively with Contractors and Consultants was wonderful and together we have overcome the challenges of Covid-19. We would like to express our most sincere thanks to all the teams and individuals involved in this project who have worked so hard and with such passion and commitment.” The ProjectLike many new builds, RHS Hilltop used the very latest in environmentally friendly techniques in their build process. This included installing their own renewable energy sources, using high levels of insulation and astonishingly, 99% of waste during construction was recycled. The RHS Hilltop facility measures 4,750 square meters and was part of a wider 5-year transformation program at RHS Wisley. With an investment of £35 million, it is easy to see how seriously the Royal Horticultural Society are taking their legacy and setting themselves in good stead for scientific research in the future. HAG installed fire curtains and fire shutters across the site, which are essential to ensure safety and time to exit the buildings in the event of fire. Our insurance-certified roller shutters were supplied and fitted to their exacting standards and are fully covered by LPCB Certification, to give optimum security protection. We were pleased to be involved in such a stunning development and look forward to working with both Geoffrey Osborne Ltd and the RHS again in the future.

Light, air, acoustics and spatial organisation are well recognised as essential elements when designers work on medical and healing facilities. This is because they have an impact on the treatment of body and mind. Now a wealth of information is available from Troldtekt, a leading developer and manufacturer of acoustic ceiling and wall solutions. This is available in an online series of articles which focuses on visions and practices opportunities and pitfalls within healing architecture. Interestingly, the internationally acknowledged MIPIM Awards have in recent years started celebrating outstanding healthcare design. The award is an acknowledgement of the role architecture plays in healing and treatment of both physical and mental illnesses. The UK’s recent Mental Health Awareness Week also reinforces the severity of the issues around mental health.Right design is especially critical for people suffering from mental illness or feeling unwell. According to Swedish architects White Arkitekter, a good example is their design for the Ostra Hospital psychiatric facility where traditional conventions have been replaced by an open and unrestricted environment characterised by tranquillity and light. The area is also not isolated from the rest of the building. Another key aspect has been specifying superior acoustics, such as in the psychiatric ward in their design for the Södra Älvsborg Hospital in Borås. Recently shortlisted for the European Healthcare Design 2021 Awards in the Mental Health Design category, their starting point was that the architecture must cater for people’s need to feel safe and to improve their well-being. In designing the interior, the emphasis has always been on soft, round shapes (no sharp edges), while the colours strike a balance between providing stimulating sensory impressions and instilling a sense of calm. They say that the choice of materials, such as wood, also plays a key role because it adds warmth and naturalness. “Sound is an environmental factor that we’re very careful to incorporate correctly in psychiatric buildings,” explains White architect Peter Johnstone. “Creating subdued and comfortable acoustics helps to counteract stress and anxiety that can otherwise be triggered by a noisy environment. Apart from Sweden, international research shows that the therapeutic environment can be crucial to the treatment of mental disorders. In fact, research from Chalmers University of Technology proves that the right interior design, including perfect acoustics, can reduce both the use of physical restraint on psychiatric wards as well as the number of sick days among employees.Founded on the Cradle-to-Cradle design concept, Troldtekt’s natural and inherently sustainable panels are available in a variety of different surfaces and colours and contribute positively to a building’s BREEAM, DGNB and LEED ratings. In addition to their high sound absorption and tactile surface, they offer high durability and low cost lifecycle performance. Available in various sizes and in four grades from extreme fine to coarse, the panels can be left untreated or painted in virtually any RAL colour. Samples, case studies and technical guidance are available from tel 01978 664255 or Troldtekt.co.uk while the theme can be found at https://www.troldtekt.com/news/themes/healing-architecture

The overall aesthetic appearance of this project was very important. Originally, traditional metal roofing was considered, but the client had reservations with possible noise issues and theft problems, and local planning constraints did not permit the use of traditional slate. So, Williams Roofing Contractors of Chandlers Ford were tasked in finding an alternative solution.Polyroof’s BBA approved 185 GRP System can replicate the look of metal sheeted roofing at a fraction of the weight and the price and, having no scrap value, is not prone to vandalism or theft.The contractor worked closely with the Polyroof Technical Department, the client, and the planners to produce a detailed specification for the project incorporating pre-formed trims to create a lead effect. The system was successfully installed within the project time frame and upon completion was given the usual insurance-backed 20 year guarantee from Polyroof Products Limited.Polyroof’s simulated metal finishes are achieved through the installation of Polyroof pre-formed GRP trims which are fixed to the deck or substrate prior to the application of the Polyroof waterproofing membrane. The project was nominated for the LRWA Roofing Awards due to the high level of intricate detailing that was undertaken and the care that was taken to ensure that all preformed profiles were fitted in balanced, parallel positions. The overall attention to detail by the Polyroof approved skilled operatives was first class.

The design of the house specified an airtight and thermal efficient solution to meet Building Regulations. The brief for DGTS was to provide a highly insulated (U-Values for walls/0.11 and floors/0.13) envelope to the main steel frame structure and concrete beam and block floors to both ground and first floor level. The dwelling floor area was approx 700m² broken up into twelve rooms including a wet room, gym, media room and library.

This project required a robust and a meticulously detailed specification with Delta Registered Installers, Cemplas being appointed waterproofing contractor to guarantee a watertight basement.

This new 160,000 sq. ft, 18 storey office building evolves the successful Nova formula with a sustainability conscious design, a progressive approach to work and wellbeing, and a vibrant, connected community in the heart of Victoria, London.Throughout the commercial space, a range of off-site constructed washrooms & toilet pods were manufactured in Scotland by Modular Interiors. There was a requirement to increase the finished floor height to allow this space to work effectively.The Knauf GifaFloor system is the ideal partner to this project, particularly to help with efficient programming.FHB38 1200x600mm installed on a pedestal understructure was specified as it creates a solid monolithic floor which can be installed quickly and allows for follow on trades within hours of install. Compared to traditional wet screeds, there is no long drying time, no mess or complicated health & safety issues.GifaFloor is the ideal partner to ceramic finishes such as this project. The ceramic tiles can be adhered directly to the panel, without the need for de-coupling layersThe GifaFloor FHB system offers a high acoustic performance, A1 non-combustible fire rating, limits response to moisture or heat and is manufactured from low carbon gypsum fibre.

We worked closely with the client, Architect and main contractors to provide a unique engineered wood floor solution. The boards are unique and unusual, being cross band sawn to create a textured finish that looks natural like the old boards in loft conversions. This matched the ethos the client was trying to achieve in both look and finish. The product code is TW E781.

The quality of Ravago Building Solution products has been recognised by the UK’s leading specialist building envelope contractor Prater, who utilised Ravatherm XPS X 300 SL and MK for Prime Development’s new luxury London hotel and apartment project. Set to open in 2022, the exclusive Belgravia development has been insulated with an impressive 2000m2 of high-performance Ravatherm XPS products.Launched in 2016, Ravatherm XPS 300 SL is Ravago’s next generation XPS thermal insulation for inverted flat roof applications. With a declared lambda of 0.030 or 0.031, depending on thickness and a coveted BRE Green Guide Rating A+, the shiplapped edged boards are the superior choice for exceptionally stable, energy efficient insulation. The Ravatherm XPS X MK filter/water-flow-reducing layer further improves thermal performance, by minimising heat loss and thus reducing the volume of insulation required.Chris Gimson, Commercial Director UK & Ireland, Ravago Building Solutions, said: “Prime Development have ensured that the prestigious new Peninsula Hotel uses only the very best products in its construction, right down to the insulation. It’s wonderful to know that Ravatherm XPS X insulation will take pride of place in such a spectacular flagship hotel overlooking Buckingham Palace Garden.”A spokesperson from Prime Development said: “As specialists in standard-setting premium development, all of our projects are completed to the highest specification. Ravago, having a 60-year legacy as market-leading manufacturers of insulation, fit our vision for the prestigious Peninsula London development perfectly. 

The North Devon Enterprise Centre in county Devon was constructed using sustainable materials and techniques.DUCO also played a role in this with its intensive ventilation techniques.Main contractor ISG has constructed the Enterprise Centre at Devon County Council’s Roundswell Enterpise Park development. The centre has been designed to offer flexible office accommodation for small and medium size businesses that are looking to grow. The building was constructed using sustainable materials and techniques.DUCO also played a role in this with its intensive ventilation techniques.Environmentally sustainable buildingThe Enterprise Centre, which is known as NODE, has still a few office facilities for sale, but most of the facilities were sold already by companies both local and from the county.The design and construction of the building was developed with environmental sustainability in mind, resulting in the achievement of the BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) Excellent Status.Intensive ventilation for a healthy indoor climateDUCO is proud to be part of this achievement through the installation of its high-end intensive ventilation products in the Enterprise Centre’s building. One thing’s for sure: no compromises were made on ventilation in this project.No fewer than three high-performance DUCO ventilation products can be found in the building. Combined, they provide sufficient intensive ventilation in the entire building.DucoGrille Solid F 30Z window grilles are made of punched solid louvre blades which are very robust and equipped with an insect screen. A reinforced version of this frame profile can acheive burglar-resistance to Class 2.DucoGrille Solid G 30Z is a recesses mounted wall louvre, manufactured from extruded aluminium profiles. The perforated blade profiles act as an insect screen, whereas the Z-shaped blade ensures a robust design.DucoGrille Close 105 blade dampers were installed and fitted with the DucoGrille Solid window grilles. Thanks to the high airflow rate the DucoGrille Close 105 damper is also suitable for adjustable extract. It allows fresh air from the outside enter the Enterprise Centre building through the building envelope ensuring a healthy indoor climate!

Brett Landscaping, a leading provider of innovative landscaping solutions, partnered with Darcliffe Homes on the Stoneham Park housebuilding project in Reading. Stoneham Park is a prestigious development perfectly located on the Western edge of Reading, offering residents unparalleled access to both urban conveniences and scenic countryside. With beautifully landscaped grounds and a variety of residential options, Stoneham Park aimed to provide a desirable living environment. Brett Landscaping’s role in the project was to supply permeable paving, specifically their Alpha Flow range in Autumn Gold and Brindle colours, along with Chaucer paving slabs in Buff and High Kerb in Autumn Gold to complement the paving. The Stoneham Park project commenced in November 2022 and is scheduled for completion in December 2023. The development encompasses a diverse selection of 1 & 2 bedroom apartments, as well as 2, 3, 4, or 5 bedroom houses, catering to a wide range of potential residents. The project aimed to create a harmonious blend of urban and rural elements, with a picturesque backdrop of open fields, views of Sulham Woods, and convenient access to Reading’s amenities.

PROJECT OVERVIEW Named after Ray Dolby, a PhD alumnus of Cambridge University, former fellow of Pembroke College, inventor and founder of Dolby, the a/v company, the new facility was designed in Revit by nbbj and is being delivered in BIM by Bouygues UK. Co-funded by Dolby, it will create a centre for innovation, bringing together the academic and research capabilities of the university’s physics department with private sector R&D projects.OUR SCOPE WORK Norwood is delivering a £1.9 million package that includes custom-design, manufacture and installation of the £200K, 2.85m high fire-rated glazed wall. The company’s remit also includes a 2500m2 walk-on ceiling with a 100kg/1200mm2 load capacity to enable ease of maintenance. Norwood is also responsible for design, manufacture and installation of a cleanroom partitioning system totalling 4080m2. For this element of the project, the Norwood team designed a bespoke version of the company’s standard 1000mm modular cleanroom partitioning system to meet the required 1200mm specification, and developed a bespoke T-bolt system to enable customisation of the cleanroom facilities for evolving occupier requirements throughout the lifecycle of the building.The fire-rated glazed wall was designed and manufactured by Norwood and independently tested by UKAS-accredited fire safety services specialist, Warringtonfire, to ensure 60-minute fire integrity and insulation . With each glazed panel weighing 200kg, the installation was meticulously orchestrated by Norwood. The installation will showcase the work being carried out in each of the cleanroom spaces as visitors enter the building via the atrium, with blackout blinds installed to enable any commercially sensitive projects to be hidden from view where required.

THE PROJECTThe brand new ‘Bay Campus’ at Swansea University is now open, and we’re extremely proud to say that we played a part of this fantastic project. Developed over a 2 year period, the £450M project will provide academic, student accommodation and research space to over 5000 students and 1000 staff, and is one of the few global universities with direct access to the adjacent beach and its own seafront promenade.THE PRODUCTThe student accommodation includes a mail room featuring multiple banks of freestanding mailboxes designed in compliance with the strict branding guidelines set out by the university and project architects.The mailbox chosen for the project is the Steel 1 product that has been modified to feature a 380mm depth that allows for a larger storage of mail than if using the standard Steel 1 that features a depth of 120mm. The larger depth Steel 1 variant required a number of bespoke pedestal supports that would ensure the mailboxes were secure and stable when configured into large banks of mailboxes.THE FINISHThe banks of mailboxes used in the project feature a variety of colour finishes that met the branding guidelines set out by Swansea University and the project architects. Each mailbox is finished with polyester powder coated paint with either of the following colours:RAL 7024 (Graphite Grey)RAL 7031 (Blue Grey)RAL 7038 (Agate Grey)The layout of the colours was randomised which is a very popular choice for student accommodation projects, ensuring all standard branding colours are adhered to whilst promoting a fun and vibrant style in the location area. This project also benefitting from the services of The Safety Letterbox Company specialist installation team who safely delivered and installed the mailboxes.

We are onsite in Stratford this week improving GRP Riser Floors that had been installed by another company using sub-standard GRP grating. The GRP supporting joists we are adding will ensure the riser floors meet all the safety standards for decades to come.The building on Pool Street West is one of two developments on the new UCL East campus. Together, the new buildings will house hi-tech laboratories and research space, student accommodation and designated areas for working with schools, charities and local groups. They will total more than 50,000 square metres and be home to 4,000 students and around 260 academic staff. Pool Street West is due to open in 2022, and Marshgate the year after.The two new buildings are part of Transforming UCL, a £1.25bn ten-year programme of investment in UCL’s estate across London to support the University’s continuing growth. Hopefully, the alterations won’t delay construction; glass reinforced plastic structural beams are a fraction of the weight of steel equivalents so are quick and easy to install. We don’t know why the original supplier made the material choices they did but, at Step on Safety, all the work we do is ISO accredited, meeting a minimum load requirement of 5kn/m2. Our grating is the very best quality and our design and installation teams are trained to provide solutions that meet every requirement, every time.To ensure you get the very best GRP solution, talk to the Step on Safety team. We pride ourselves on providing outstanding customer service and take great care to ensure that each project is completed to our client’s complete satisfaction.

SMARTPLY MAX FR B has been specified and installed to provide enhanced fire protection at a new residential development at School Road, Hove in East Sussex. Built by PMC Construction, the affordable 104-home development is on the site of a former Westerman Industrial Works complex originating from the 1950’s.   The extensive project included the building of 21 town houses, and seven residential blocks. Block A features nine flats in a four to five storey structure, while blocks B, C and D feature 47 flats across four storeys. Blocks E, F and G consists of 17 flats and retail units spanning across three and four storeys. Such a feat required specialist, structural panels with reliable reaction to fire properties.  “The project was to supply and erect timber frames as part of the design and construction of 104 residential dwellings and three commercial units,” said Emma Barry, Project Co Ordinator at Gibbs Timber Frame. “We had worked with SMARTPLY products before, but on smaller projects that required enhanced fire protection.” Around 3,500 sheets of SMARTPLY MAX FR B were used in the project, covering over 8,900m2. “We chose SMARTPLY MAX FR B panels for the Cat B and Cat C buildings and decking because of its flame retardant properties. Crucially, the product is also suitable for EC5 Design and Cat 1 racking, which is just what we needed.” SMARTPLY MAX FR B is a structural, moisture resistant OSB/3 panel, which as well as having outstanding and reliable reaction to fire properties, is ideal for use in a range of applications where strength, moisture resistance and improved flame retardance are paramount. Unlike standard, structural OSB/3 panels, SMARTPLY MAX FR B is treated with a water-based, non-toxic flame retardant solution during the manufacturing process, which provides enhanced fire protection throughout the thickness of the panel. This means that even if it’s cut, the level of protection remains, unlike some post-treated panels.  SMARTPLY MAX FR B is CE certified according to EN 13986 and meets the requirements for load-bearing panels for use in humid conditions (Type OSB/3) as defined in EN 300 and Eurocode 5. The project began in January 2020 and is due to be completed in October 2021. Gibbs Timber Frame are manufacturers of high-quality timber frame structures with over twenty years’ experience in the construction industry. Their expertise ranges from luxury detached homes, specialised structures, bungalows, chalets, terrace housing, apartment blocks, commercial buildings and home extensions.  Find out more and keep up with them here: www.gibbstimberframe.co.uk  Discover more about the benefits of SMARTPLY MAX FR B here:

The new build development contained 17 dwellings for social rent, consisting of four one-bedroom flats, nine two-bedroom flats and four three-bedroom flats. The new development is located within an urban densely populated area of London. The 97 windows manufactured and supplied were predominately Optima Flush Tilt and Turn Windows from Profile 22 along with a small number of Optima open-out casement windows too. Optima from Profile 22 is the UK’s leading award-winning commercial window system. Profile 22 Optima Windows deliver the high-quality specifications required.

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

Due to the increased popularity of outside living space, this property in Northwest London has maximised this opportunity to increase their privacy from one neighbour with an unusually shaped extension providing the freedom of opening up the entire area. To try and keep in with the local surroundings they wanted to use copper for their cladding that would complement their design. Natural copper can take a long time to weather to a green finish. Metal Solutions offered Aurubis Nordic Green which is a pre-patinated copper where they can benefit from the aged finish from the day it was installed.

Profile 22 has supplied 88 bespoke vertical sliding windows to a prominent private apartment building located in Southport, Merseyside. The windows were supplied and installed to this complex project by Ormskirk based specialist installer Countrywide UPVC.

Flooring by Welsh Slate features in a new gallery at the British Museum. Natural slate flooring by Welsh Slate was specified for the refurbishment of a gallery at the British Museum for a multitude of reasons. Some 172m2 of various sizes of Cwt-y- Bugail dark blue grey floor slates from Welsh Slate Ltd were used on the redevelopment of the museum’s “Middle Room”, one of the oldest rooms in Sir Robert Smirke’s Georgian museum. They were specified by Purcell architects, the museum’s conservation architects and lead consultants, based on their working knowledge of the product.

UltraScape’s BS 7533 compliant mortar paving system has been used to install over 10,000 square meters of paving in Newport’s major new shopping and leisure scheme, Friars Walk.

Summer 2019 saw The Solid Wood Flooring Company work with Base Interior and other key suppliers to complete a refurbishment inspired by Scandi design in the affluent district of Kensington, London. Fitzhardinge House offers a crisp, clean and modern aesthetic, achieved by using our Light Brushed Fumed Raw Timber UV Cured Finish Flooring Suitable for underfloor heating, this 15mm thick flooring opened up the space to create a spacious area that would stand the test of time. This project demonstrated what can be achieved when trades and suppliers combine, creating a space that looks as impressive as it functions.

A new residential complex in Manchester city centre is benefitting from full Knauf drywall systems to provide high-quality homes for its new residents.

Kendrick Homes has selected DRU gas fires for ‘The Ridings’, a development of nine executive properties in the commuter village of Balsall Common, near Coventry. DRU Metro 100XT frameless gas fires are situated in six of the properties, with the other three having DRU Global 70XT models in fire surrounds. Both fires are balanced flue models, which do not require a chimney and are installed into a false chimneybreast. The fires have heat outputs of 7 kW, enough for a large living room. They feature realistic log fire displays and are operated by remote control.

Products used Welded Masonry Support, Brick Slip Lintels, B.O.S.S. System, Titan Max System • Architect Coady Architects in collaboration with Feilden Clegg Bradley • Contractor JJ Rhatigan & Co Ltd (Galway)OverviewIG Masonry Support was able to supply a range of its products within a tight revised timeframe on a new-build student accommodation development at National University of Ireland (NUI) constituent university in Galway.Founded in 1845, NUI Galway is ranked among the top 1% of universities and has been inspiring students for 175 years. NUI Galway has earned international recognition as a research-led university with a commitment to top quality teaching, and has colleges spanning arts and social sciences, medicine, policy and engineering.Designed by Coady Partnership Architects, IG Masonry Support worked with the contractor JJ Rhatigan on Phase 1 of the construction of Goldcrest Village, a major state-of-the-art student accommodation as part of NUI Galway.The 429-bed student residence was constructed to the north of the NUI Galway city centre campus, adjacent to the Lifecourse Science Building and the Science Research Building. Near the existing Corrib Village student accommodation, Goldcrest Village offers a total area of 12,500m2, with apartments of five or six bedrooms with en-suites, shared kitchen, dining and living rooms. Four buildings up to five storeys high enclose two courtyards, with the tallest near a pedestrian and cycle route that links the development to the main campus. Communal facilities and a reception are centrally located for the students to access.For this modern and vibrant build, IG Masonry Support’s products were specified due to an established existing relationship with JJ Rhatigan, a contractor which is well-versed on IG Masonry Support’s systems.The ChallengeThe project’s main challenge was achieving the specified brick soffit in a short amount of time to a high-standard of quality and finish.Due to a large change to Building A’s facade, IG Masonry Support’s teams had to adapt quickly whilst the project was live. The project deadline did not change however, which meant manufacturing times were tight. A six-week job had to be turned around in five days without compromise to delivery or quality.Furthermore, the installation of IG Masonry Support systems was to take place whilst students were on campus. This meant that high standards of health and safety precautions had to be upheld and followed at all times.The SolutionIG Masonry Support manufactured its B.O.S.S. (Brick on Soffit System) and Brick Slip Lintels to be installed on the buildings within the new Goldcrest Village development.The B.O.S.S. range is a lightweight prefabricated system that is faster to install than traditional hanging brick systems. Installed to a pre-fitted masonry support system, B.O.S.S. allows increased adjustability along three axes. Produced offsite, B.O.S.S. offers 90% time saving onsite and negates the need for mechanical lifting. B.O.S.S. also removes the need for brick-cutting onsite, resulting in a quality system that is checked before it arrives onsite.IG Masonry Support Brick Slip Lintels can be used over small openings to eliminate the need for additional masonry support. They are delivered to site as a one-piece unit, complete with brick slips attached, eliminating the need for specialist installation onsite.A simpler and easier install when delivered to site was a huge benefit on this project. Not only did the swift installation enable time and cost savings in terms of labour, it ensured a better-quality finish and met the desired specification. This translated into achieving the required brick patterns and soffit sizes which blended seamlessly with the surrounding brickwork.Going above and beyond even on a project with a tight timeframe, IG Masonry Support delivered Masonry Support from Level 2 of Building A. When this was installed, the contractors could determine the finished bond pattern of Level 1 B.O.S.S. units to inform the patterning of the levels beyond, ensuring the same quality finish was met.Throughout the project, IG Masonry Support’s technical division worked with the teams to ensure all products hit the mark on safety and quality.A striking student accommodation complex within NUI Galway, the presence of IG Masonry Support systems will help ensure students live in areas that are of the highest quality throughout the academic years.