"roof windows northlights"

The Bryncae development on Bridgend Road, Pontyclun is a three-phased residential scheme that aimed to bring much needed housing to the growing commuter town in South Wales. In phase one of the development, a mix of flats, bungalows and houses were built, along with three business units which were filled by Co-op Food, Greggs and Bella’s Boutique. Taylor Maxwell worked with architects Buckmaster Batcup, who were appointed by Rhondda Housing Association, to specify and supply Stonepanel stone cladding and weatherboard cladding to the project, along with blue facing bricks in a soldier course detail above and below the windows. The scheme was managed by supply chain partner Wates Group. The second and third stages delivered a further mix of houses and flats, with work carried out by M&J Cosgrove and Morganstone respectively. Holder Matthias Architects were the architects on phases two and three, carrying out the precedent set in phase one.

A beautiful timber frame house, made of Western Red Cedar based in Kings Langley. Kings Langley, Hertfordshire is the birthplace of Ovaltine, the soothing malt drink. The village is divided by the River Gade and endowed with a couple of beautiful lakes.It is here, at one of these lakes, that a charming timber garden house is fitted with beautiful wooden louvres. By Sunshield, in collaboration with Contrasol. We were delighted to assist the owners with custom made external louvres to provide the a much needed perfect solution to reduce glare. Our client is sensitive to light and needed an effective shading product to specifically reduce sunlight entering the internal space.Our client was looking for something to be able to control light as well as a solution to fully block out light at night. The windows are South facing; therefore the louvres were also perfect for shading purposes and heat reduction.The Sunshield team applied the popular 98W which is made from Western Red Cedar to compliment the overall building.

Challenge:For the first phase of 80 retail units, Phoenix Brickwork required IG’s bespoke arch lintels accommodating a range of opening spans between 910mm to 6000mm for ground and first floor shopfront door and window openings.Solution:IG’s technical team worked closely with Phoenix Brickwork and developed a one-piece lintel design solution taking into consideration loading conditions for each application.All special lintels were delivered to site as part of the project build schedule and helped to achieve the desired façade complementing both the fascia and canopy design. The welcoming shop fronts are sympathetic to building and have helped contribute to an attractive retail and leisure development.The 30,000m2 of retail space built over two phases will eventually consist of 125 retail units, generate 1,200+ additional jobs and create a new retail destination for the region with the aim to attract over 39 million tourists a year.

Our client Prestige All Parts, a car dealership, aimed to establish a new showroom and office space. They sought an innovative solution that would not only set their showroom apart but also ensure functionality and appeal to visiting customers.To address our clients needs, we proposed a comprehensive redesign of the shopfront. The focal point of our solution was the integration of expansive windows to maximise the influx of natural light into the showroom. This strategic approach aimed to create an inviting ambiance while showcasing the displayed vehicles in their best light. In addition to that, the implementation of a sliding automatic door system for the main entrance allowed for enhanced accessibility and also offered a seamless and user friendly experience for customers entering.Beyond its practical benefits, such as ease of access for visitors, this feature symbolised the dealership’s commitment to modernity and innovation. By implementing these proposed solutions, our client not only transformed their physical space but also redefined their brand identity.

Lomax & Wood are delighted to have been involved with the window installation for 1 Warwick; the latest members’ House from the Maslow’s family, housed in a Neo- Baroque mansion on the corner of Warwick, Brewer, and Glasshouse Street — a slice of London that has played muse to writers, artists, poets, and musicians over the centuries.At 1 Warwick, Maslow's theory of human motivation and happiness serves as the inspiration behind the design of the six-storey mansion. The space features a range of beautifully designed workspaces, members' lounges, event spaces, a studio, and a gym. Guests can also indulge in a tempting array of culinary delights throughout the venue, all overseen by executive chef Tom Cenci. The rooftop restaurant, bar, and terrace Yasmin is exclusively available to members and offers a delicious Middle Eastern menu. Meanwhile, Nessa, a playful neighbourhood bistro and bar located on the ground floor, puts an imaginative twist on British classics.

A bespoke side sliding sectional garage door by Rundum Meir provides a blend of aesthetics and modern functionality in a Victorian house renovation project. The 19 ft x 12 ft garage has been transformed into a quality working space equipped and finished exquisitely, allowing for use as a utility area or office as well as a vehicular. A clear 2900mm span is provided by a sliding sectional garage door. Hand crafted using knot-free Spruce, this bespoke timber door in RAL 6021 Pale Green is fully automated with insulation between the five solid double skinned timber panels.With one third obscure glazing, the door allows for plenty of natural light to enter the garage. The design of the garage door panels and the cross styles in the window were the customer’s wish to satisfy the local conservation area requirements. It is the perfect example of the role a Rundum Meir garage door can play in transforming a garage to give it new purpose and flexibility.

When regional housebuilder, Galion Ltd was looking for a way to speed up the construction process without compromising on using traditional masonry materials for its Jarmany Hill site, it turned to H+H’s Celcon Vertical Wall Panels.Celcon Vertical Wall Panels are storey-high panels of aircrete that are craned into place for a fast build with the reassuring characteristics of a high-performance, durable, masonry structure.Galion Ltd is building five large, detached houses with uninterrupted views over the Somerset countryside towards Glastonbury Tor. With a reputation for building individual properties to a high specification, the quality of the build is a strong focus for the company.Tim Barnes, Managing Director of Galion Ltd explains why H+H Vertical Wall Panels were chosen for the site: “One of the unique features of our houses is that we use local, natural stone walling for the external envelope of the properties. These are slow to build, especially when we’re using a traditional masonry build method as we are restricted to a maximum of six courses before laying the masonry to the same height.“With the traditional method it was taking 8 to 12 weeks to get to the point where we could put the roof on a house. The joy of using H+H Vertical Wall Panels is that we can get the roof on in around 8 days – it’s a huge advantage for us.”Constructing the watertight external shell of a house so quickly allows the internal trades to start work much earlier, reducing the build schedule significantly. When building large homes like the 2,800 square foot houses on the Jarmany Hill site, this time saving is particularly pertinent.Galion Ltd is working with Acorn Innovation Build Ltd whose carpenters were trained by H+H to install the Vertical Wall Panels. It was a fairly straightforward transition for them as they already use a crane to install timber floor cassettes and roof joists.Matt Shuttleworth, Director, Acorn Innovation Build commented: “H+H Celcon Vertical Wall Panels is a new system for us but as a company we are always interested in different methods of construction. I have to say, so far we are very impressed with this one.”Tim Barnes is equally impressed, saying: “I’m struggling to see a downside to the system. Everyone who has seen it has been impressed and I think once other companies see contractors building with it they’ll wonder why they’re not using it too. We’re already planning to use the system at another site that will be breaking ground soon.”

Project: Knightsbridge Gate, 55-91 KnightsbridgeClient: APML EstateMain contractor: Sir Robert McAlpineArchitects: Dixon Jones Architects (lead), Richard Griffiths Architects (conservation including shopfronts design) and MSMR Architects (residential interior design)Installer: Atlantic Contracts (shopfront design and installation), Richard Gent (glazier)In the world of retail, a Knightsbridge address is about as desirable as it gets, which is why so many brands choose to locate their flagship stores on the famed central-London street.For the designers of Knightsbridge Gate, a landmark mixed-use development that occupies an entire block of the street, providing the best possible shopfronts for the retailers that will occupy the scheme’s ground floor was a top priority. So, choosing the right glazing was paramount.While most of the building has been newly constructed, the 120-metre-long Edwardian street-facing façade has been retained, along with its 17 glazed shopfronts. The glazing for each of the frontages is held in place by decorative oak frames that have been carefully re-created according to the original design.Letting window displays shineTo ensure that the units look their best, the designer selected Pilkington OptiView™ Protect OW anti-reflective glass for the street-level glazing.Coatings on the outer faces of the laminated glass reduce its reflectivity to around 2%, compared with around 8% for standard, un-coated glass. The result is that views into the shopfronts are almost entirely un-interrupted by reflections, even on bright days, ensuring that retailers’ window displays are shown off to the best effect.To give further clarity, the glass is Pilkington Optiwhite™ low-iron glass that is almost entirely free from colouration.Rachel Scannell at APML Estate said: “The aim with the retail units at Knightsbridge Gate was to create spaces that the most prestigious brands in the world would be happy to choose in order to display their offerings. The glazing is, of course, a key part of this.“The anti-reflective glass from Pilkington UK is often used by galleries and museums to display priceless artworks and artifacts without compromising on detail, so the retailers that call Knightsbridge Gate home will enjoy the same benefits.”Crafted to lastAdding to the aesthetic appeal of the glazing is the complex shape of the panes that make it up, including a large, curved edge at the top of the central pane in each shopfront. Pilkington UK engineers worked closely with the carpenters to precision cut each pane of glass to ensure a perfect fit.The shop front windows are as tough as they are beautiful as they consist of two panes of glass laminated together with a strong polyvinyl butyral (PVB) interlayer. This ensures the glazing can stand up to all the forces that may be thrown at it, from wind-loading to any attempts to smash the glass.Due to the anti-reflective coating being applied at a high temperature when the glass was being made, it is highly scratch-resistant, ensuring its clean and clear appearance will last for many years to come.Peter Maj, business development manager at Pilkington United Kingdom Limited, part of the NSG Group, said: “By selecting Pilkington OptiView™ for this project, the designers have demonstrated that it is the product of choice for retail applications where the glazing will be under the utmost scrutiny and needs to look its best.”Along with the shop-fronts, Pilkington UK also supplied 300 m² of Pilkington Optiphon™ OW acoustic glass, which has been used throughout the offices and apartments on the upper five floors of the building to provide noise-reducing secondary glazing.

Student Castle aims to create the ultimate university experience for students by providing high quality contemporary accommodation at locations across the UK. In Brighton, East Sussex, international design practice, Hassell, is responsible for designing one of the company’s latest schemes – an impressive, nine-storey mixed use building. With brick as the principal element, the studio worked closely with Vandersanden to achieve the detailing and precise finish required.Located in a prominent location on Lewes Road in the heart of Brighton’s student district, the building includes student accommodation, a new home for the Centre for Inclusive Music and a local community ‘Hub’ space. Although the scale of the building is substantially larger than the buildings previously on the site, its massing was carefully managed by creating a scheme with a stepped and staggered zigzag form. To support and strengthen the architectural composition, the materials were reduced to a simple palette. Vandersanden’s Anicius hand-formed facing brick wraps all sides of the building - a light coloured, slightly indented 10mm mortar joint enlivening the whole - its use and colouration tying the building into the local architectural context. The brick facades are broken and capped by a series of horizontal bands and copings formed from white precast GRC (glass reinforced concrete) sections, setting out the horizontal order and announcing breaks in the building’s geometry. The aesthetic is further enhanced by dark bronze coloured aluminium sections framing the windows. Notably, all window reveals are brick, including the cills; an important feature of the project.“The selection of the brick began with a brainstorming session where we looked at different ranges and options, but knew an engineered brick look wouldn’t be suitable,” says Tiago Arieira, project architect at Hassell. “We chose Vandersanden’s Anicius brick because it was dark, but also had a slight white softness. We liked the idea of a more natural and irregular material with its sand-coated, grained structure.” One of the biggest design challenges with the brickwork was creating the multiple corners that result from the zigzag and stepped detailing that helps break up the mass of the building and allows sea views from the terraces. “Many of the junctions are not at right angles, so conventional brick joints would have been impractical,” explains Arieira. “Vandersanden’s Sales Team were incredibly helpful from the beginning. We talked about the different angles and how we were looking to achieve neat edges. Through this consultation, we were able to identify that the bricks could be cut and the corner bricks formed off-site to achieve a precise finish that would also save time with site installation.” The desired outcome was achieved using Revit digital software to map every angle at every level and to quantify the number of bricks and the exact mitre that had to be formed for each junction. The distances between the windows and the heights of the brick courses were also carefully calculated to ensure a precise aesthetic. “On site, the solution worked well and, because everything to do with the brickwork was carefully pre-planned, there were no issues during construction,” says Arieira.“Although it was the natural look and feel of the Anicius brick that first impressed us, Vandersanden was really helpful throughout the process,” notes Tiago Arieira. “The process worked because of a strong collaboration from the early stages. Vandersanden understood their product and were able to give us the support we needed in achieving our design vision.”To find out more about the bricks used in this project or to see the wide range of high-quality bricks available from Vandersanden, click on the 'View more' link 

With a height of up to 110 m, the impressive Elbphilharmonie rises up on around 1,700 reinforced concrete piles. The architects from Herzog & de Meuron have placed a curved glass facade made up of more than 1,000 differently curved window elements on the brick Kaispeicher A, a former warehouse for cocoa, tobacco and tea. Their shape is reminiscent of giant horseshoes and tuning forks and creates unique mirroring effects. The concavely curved roof evokes impressive wave crowns with shimmering sequins.The heart of the Elbphilharmonie is the legendary concert hall, which literally floats at a height of 50 meters – decoupled from the rest of the building for sound insulation reasons. Its acoustics, for which the Japanese Yasuhisa Toyota, one of the world’s most renowned acousticians, is responsible, are overwhelming: the “White Skin”, which owes its name to the around 10,000 gypsum fiber panels on the walls and ceilings, and a reflector in the middle of the vaulted ceiling for optimal listening pleasure in each of the 2,100 seats. Functionally and aesthetically reliable tilesIn addition to two other concert halls, the building is home to 45 apartments, the freely accessible plaza at a height of 37 meters with a 360° panorama over the city and a very special hotel. The “The Westin Hamburg” extends in the eastern part of the building from the 6th. floor to the end floor on the 20th floor. In the 244 exclusive rooms and suites, discerning guests will encounter Villeroy&Boch tiles: mosaics from the PRO ARCHITECTURA series are integrated into the design concept by Tassilo Bost, bost group berlin. The calm, puristic interior design plays with the themes of sand, air and water and combines a linear design with a flowing design language. The pure white small formats of just 2.5 x 2.5 cm with a matt surface give the designer space for individual bathroom designs. The minimalist ceramic tiles underline the exquisite room atmosphere in a reserved manner and without pushing themselves into the foreground.“The Westin Hamburg” also includes a 1,300 m² fitness and wellness area. In addition to training options, saunas, steam baths, two fresh air loggias with a view of the Elbe and the harbor, treatment and relaxation rooms and a lounge, the Elb Spa offers the longest indoor hotel pool in Hamburg at 20 m. The swimming pool was also designed with PRO ARCHITECTURA. Villeroy&Boch Tiles has been a proven and reliable partner for planners and architects in swimming pool construction for many years and, in addition to modular tile series, offers them all the additional molded parts for a functionally high-quality and at the same time aesthetically sophisticated swimming pool. PRO ARCHITECTURA is also used in the staff rooms for the approximately 160 employees, who look after the well-being of hotel guests from all over the world at “The Westin Hamburg”.

A contemporary approach to building design inspires professional learningAt Exeter College in Devon, UK, modular skylights have been installed above an existing steel infrastructure as part of an extension project that connects old and new buildings. Elegant, slim beam skylights and steal pillars mirror one another in length, creating an awe-inspiring design aesthetic that is not only eye-catching, but considerate of building owners’ safety requirements. Roof access for future maintenance played a central role in design planning, as did the need for the skylights to be elevated in a manner that maximizes daylight exposure, across multifunctional college spaces.  For further information on this case study, visit our website.

The new canopy we recently installed at St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Whitehaven has provided their nursery children with an additional 32 square metres of covered outdoor learning and playing space. Powder coated in RAL 5010 Matt Blue, the aluminium frame has a roof glazed with our Multi-Link-Panels NF fitted with 25mm opal multiwall polycarbonate glazing. The NF indicates that these panels pass the recommended drop test, ACR[M]001:2014, achieving a Non-Fragile designation. The polycarbonate glazing incorporates a special coating that prevents the passage of UV in sunlight, so it will help to give protection to those underneath.

Behind the façade of the iconic Grade II Listed Old Chelsea Town Hall, sits Chelsea Sports Centre. As part of a refurbishment of the showers and changing room areas, Washroom installed its flush front glass iLockers, back-painted in dark grey, together with Forte changing cubicles, manufactured from grey solid grade laminate (SGL), complete with unique Perspex integral roof to let in light while providing complete privacy for users and matching Forte toilet and shower cubicles. Washroom also manufactured bespoke ‘Black Quartz’ Corian vanity units and make-up shelves and installed its Legato benching to complete the design.

In the village of Bentworth, the Spanish architectural practice AMPS Arquitectura & Diseño had the task of building a modern residential building adjacent to an existing farmhouse. The planners designed a slender building with a gabled roof that reinterprets the traditional form of a cottage. It takes up the typical local forms and the building material of dark wood – and becomes something new.The entire interior is stylish, minimalist and sustainable, with building services designed for maximum efficiency. This includes the use of selected Gira products, such as E2 pure white glossy, pushbutton sensor 3, Gira G1 and Gira HomeServer. This is how the Spanish have skilfully redefined the idea of a cottage in the heart of England.Photos: Miguel de Guzmán

BMW Hollenstein in Aesch near Basel fully utilizes innovative technology. Completed in 2012, the operations centre uses only pioneering, sustainable infrastructure. The fully electric powered BMW models i3 and i8 are recharged at a special station prominently situated by the entrance. The electricity comes from a powerful solar energy plant located on the top of the roof. Any surplus electricity is fed back into the grid.Little wonder, then, that only doors of usual design and construction were suitable for a building such as this. Again, innovation has found its way here too, enabling us to build one of Switzerland’s first record THERMCORD systems into the entrance porch.www.hollensteinag.com/rundgang

The Confetti Building was designed by Allan Joyce Architects and completed in 2017. Built to provide a new area for students and include a cafe, LRC, motion capture suite, roof terrace and classrooms, it is intended to mature the institute with enough space for students after a period of rapid growth.The building embraces its industrial heritage with exposed ductwork, structure and brickwork but has been designed to ensure modern experiences are intertwined with the original spaces.A striking external facade is comprised of Blockleys Smooth black with a special BD1.3 shaped brick used for detailing. The Brickwork naturally compliments nearby red brick buildings and provides a balance to the wood and glass used around the building in other areas.

Location: Canary Wharf, LondonMain Contractor: Canary Wharf Contractors LtdWood Wharf B2 is a modular construction project located on the edge of Blackwall Basin, Canary Wharf.All 279 serviced apartments were manufactured at their specialist construction site, fitted with kitchens and bathrooms and even furniture — before being transported to the site and craned into position.OBEX supplied fire-classified membranes that have been developed specifically for modular construction, including the 0400FR Class B Modular Roofing Membrane, as well as the 0223FR Class A2/W2 Breather Membrane.Storeys: 21Apartments: 279OBEX Fire-Rated products required: 4

In spring 2015, the Spitzacker shopping centre in Urdorf (ZH) was reopened after considerable renovation and extension. The retail area has been totally transformed and has almost doubled in size, with numerous new tenants. There are 13 new stores housed in the complex, built in the style of a bright, spacious mall with a glass roof.All shop entrances feature record THERMCORD sliding doors with thermal insulation. The benefits of the THERMCORD model are very clear, as it plugs one of the last gaps in a building’s thermal insulation. During the day the doors provide regular, reliable service, and after closing prevent heat loss, or heat penetrating into a space requiring controlled air temperatures.www.migros.ch

Tailors Corner is one of Leeds’ most iconic city-center landmarks, and its refurbishment required contemporary design without detracting from the building’s original grandeur.A key new feature is a roof garden for the sole use of the sixth-floor occupier, and landscape designer John Davies Landscape Architecture wanted this to be a garden in its truest sense. Terrace system products from Raaft gave choice and versatility to ensure this vision became reality, while ensuring the finished results satisfied the requirements for durability and safety.Raaft also became the supplier of choice as the customer wanted a single source for all hard landscaping products and we met that requirement.

The implementation of the Future Homes Standard (FHS) policy to move away from fossil fuels to heat UK homes again highlights the need to rethink how well insulated properties could and should be. Most new build and refurbished homes could be insulated to a much greater standard than the current Building Regulations specify whilst providing more floor space, through more widespread use of advanced vacuum insulation panels (VIPs). This insulation technology, which was pioneered by Promat more than a decade ago, delivers superior thermal performance without the thickness usually associated with panels for cavities, flooring, roofing, balconies and terraces.

Cambridge Central Mosque is Europe's first eco-friendly mosque and the first purpose-built mosque within the city of Cambridge. The mosque is well insulated and naturally ventilated, using efficient heat lights in the roof and solar panels on the top to help generate renewable energy.Cellecta XFLO Micro was specified by Marks Barfield Architects as its underfloor heating insulation boards were used to help create an efficient and environmentally friendly heating system. Cellecta ScreedBoard 20 was also specified for the overlay floorboard. It is suitable for all types of steel, concrete and timber floors.Warmafloor were awarded this 250m² contract to develop this eco-friendly structure.

he BriefAddenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridgeshire were looking for a wall mounted canopy to provide shade and shelter over the main entrance of their Accident and Emergency department. At the time of enquiry, they didn’t have any form of shelter over the entrance and patients and visitors were exposed to the elements when queuing or waiting outside.Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust’s Project Manager came to Able Canopies for a quotation in hope that we could offer a product that met their design needs, whilst providing the weather protection required. The canopy specification presented to Able Canopies was a wall mounted canopy with a polycarbonate roof and toughened glass or polycarbonate front panels.

April 2017 and the future looked bleak for a fire-engulfed net repair factory on the small island of Scalpay. Fire crews from Scalpay, Tarbert, Leverburgh and Stornaway rushed to the scene, as the massive blaze took hold of the facility and the roof looked in danger of collapse. They deployed high pressure hoses to douse the conflagration.Opened in 2008, the factory employed 14 staff and had been used to clean, repair and apply treatment to salmon farming nets. The Norwegian owned operators of the Net Services Scotland site faced an uphill struggle to get the site back up and running again. Hampered by the remote location of the Outer Hebrides and its distance from the mainland.

Project type: Commercial Location: Bremont Watches Headquarters, Sheephouse Farm, Oxfordshire, RG9 4JF Product: Highline Gutter Finish: Syntha Pulvin RAL 9006 Matt White Aluminium Product: Meridian Coping System Finish: Syntha Pulvin RAL 9006 Matt White Aluminium Product: Faceted Verge Raking Soffit Finish: Syntha Pulvin RAL 9006 Matt White Aluminium Fire Rating: A2 s1, d0 Non-combustible (Reaction to Fire EN BS 13501-1:2018) Client: Bremont Watches Architect: Spratley & Partners Contractor: A&H Construction Sub Contractor: Vertec Roofing & Cladding Ltd

Did you know Vincent Timber supplied both these clubs with their cladding and louvres?BurnleyBurnley Football Club's aim with this development was to raise the standard of their training facility to meet the Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP) Category 1 and 2 standard of infrastructure. Together with Barnfield Construction, they achieved just this.To meet the requirements of the EPPP the build included an indoor area, allowing training to continue through all weathers, complete with a small spectator gallery; as well as multiple developments outside, including three full-sized training pitches and a further two three-quarter size pitches.The new centre was then given a unique finish, clad in four pre-coated, custom colours of Vincent Timber's Thermowood.Thermowood is a versatile timber that serves as internal and external cladding, louvres and even works in saunas thanks to its heat resistant properties.Thermowood is produced by changing the cellular structure of the softwood with a heat treatment making the wood more stable. Its durability and sustainability make Thermowood very popular.ArsenalSupplied by Vincent Timber to contractors Richardson Roofing.With the help of Vincent Timber and Richardson Roofing, Arsenal Football Club were able to transform their training ground at London Colney to provide players with the best possible facilities, at every age group of the club.The facility, featuring a new gym, 40m running track, ice baths, cryotherapy chamber and state of the art analysis and scouting suites, will not only be used by the first team players but it will also house 1st and 2nd year professionals at the academy.The beautiful exterior on the training centre is Western Red Cedar cladding. This attractive, durable material is the ideal choice as it is highly resistant to weather while offering superior quality and sustainability.

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 new Halcyon Way school was constructed for the community in Oldham - a Special Educational Needs (SEN) school for just over 150 children to grow, learn and develop in a caring and encouraging way.ChallengeMetal roofing and cladding contractor Decron Ltd were contracted to provide the façade for the new school. Turning to Fixfast for a solution for the support system to secure the façade, Fixfast assisted with the intricacies of the project itself - including the large letters that spell out 'Halcyon Way School' at the front of the building.SolutionFixfast were able to provide a detailed façade calculation for Decron, which included details and advice on using our SPIDI Max bracket and rail support system for the wall façade.SPIDI Max is a one-bracket design system that emphasises strength and simplicity - just one bracket can be used in vertical or horizontal applications and can be used for both fixed and sliding points within a façade.The brackets are available in a range of sizes to allow for contoured elevations, and to accommodate a range of cladding zone/cavity depths - from 80mm to 600mm in wall applications, and up to 946mm in soffit applications.Supplied in aluminium or stainless steel to cover a wide range of applications, the unique ribbed bracket design puts strength and ease of use first."Decron extends its sincere appreciation to Fixfast for their invaluable support. Fixfast's expertise in providing a detailed façade calculation and guidance on utilising the SPIDI Max bracket has been instrumental in the project's success. Fixfast's commitment to excellence and innovation reflects the high standards we uphold in our collaborations. Thank you for being a crucial part of our team."Ian Wallbank - Director at Decron Roofing & Cladding

Waterproofing this historic London landmark – external waterproofing with Newton 403 HydroBond, internal waterproofing with Newton System 500, installed by Newton Specialist Basement Contractor MacLennanUK.Newton Waterproofing were delighted to return for this project at the prestigious Houses of Parliament in London, a landmark that has dominated London’s skyline for over 150 years. Newton Specialist Basement Contractor MacLennan Waterproofing was approached to specify a guaranteed waterproofing solution for the new-build basement.After reviewing the technical drawings, MacLennan decided to bring the job to Newton, whose product range was perfectly suited to the project requirements. Newton and MacLennan are both privileged to be the companies chosen to share in securing the future of the Palace of Westminster.This complex project required the design and installation of an external waterproofing system, an internal cavity drain system, and a polyurea roofing system to ensure a high standard of waterproofing.Externally, Newton’s innovative ‘Type A’ 403 HydroBond membrane was applied extensively to ensure the necessary waterproofing around the basement, whilst internally, Newton 508 and Newton 520 membranes were both applied from floor to ceiling as part of Newton’s complete System 500 cavity drainage solution. With the finished structure in place, the waterproofing was finally completed by the application of both a polyurea coating and further drainage membrane to the roof deck of the basement.With a waterproof basement fully compliant with the requirements of BS 8102:2009, coupled with guaranteed protection against water ingress, this newly completed, large basement area, situated directly next to the River Thames, provides a durable and well-established waterproofing solution, utilising multiple Newton Systems to great effect.

OverviewPowrmatic supplied a TEG41 air rotation heater for a large distribution warehouse facility in Bristol which was installed by our trusted partners at RSY Air Conditioning.Project BackgroundSupplying the motor trade for over 50 years, Apec Braking is firmly established as the leading specialist braking supplier to motor factors throughout the UK and Ireland. The 10,488 m² distribution warehouse required frost protection with design parameters of -5°c external and +10°c internal.SolutionJust one TEG41 air rotation heater was installed by our trusted partners RSY Air Conditioning. This TEG41 heater was designed to deliver an impressive 420kW of heat output. The TEG41 heater uses high volume, low velocity, air-circulation to distribute conditioned air to large open space and is the perfect solution for any distribution warehouse heating requirements. Due to the customers requirement to maximise the amount of racking within the warehouse area the distance of the unit from racking was much less than would be usually recommend (it was under 2mtrs from face of heater to face of full height racking).ResultThe newly styled Powrmatic Air rotation units in our new RAL 7015 colour were installed by RSY Air Conditioning. The unit was redesigned at the top of the unit to be top exit rather than the conventional design. The theory behind this was to direct the leaving air towards the roof and use the internal profile of the roof to aid with stratifying the air across the building length. The racked distribution warehouse will now benefit from a frost protection system which will protect the internal sprinkler system from freezing in the colder months.

Native’s flagship boutique aparthotel in the bankside conservation area of Bear Gardens is an eight-storey scheme that involves the transformation of three of the five buildings located within the confines of the densely packed area. IG’s brick feature arch lintels feature on the front elevation of the former derelict 19th century Empire Warehouse that has been replaced and linked into a 75-room boutique aparthotel.Challenge:SPPARC in association with Southwark Council, Macro Investments and Native wanted to demonstrate that modern architecture can successfully cohabit with the historic collection of buildings informed by the industrial heritage that dominates the southern bank of the River Thames.A carefully considered restoration and modern intervention was required for a cutting-edge contemporary mixed-use development, offering an urban experience for its users but remaining sensitive to the colourful history, conservation area and surrounding developments.Solution:IG’s technical team designed eighteen brick feature arch lintels to accommodate metal paned and arched factory styled windows. A 2718mm opening span and 143mm rise was required for each prefabricated lintel, each including a 338mm high face brick and 223mm soffit return with either a 78 or 90-degree end skew.The massing arrangement across each floor ensures that natural light is maximised throughout the building with the intricate brick detailing prominent at street level appearing above impressive double height foyer windows. The offsite construction method used negated the need for skilled brickwork to be created onsite to achieve the decorative brick pattern at a raised height. This helped to reduce any health and safety concerns in a location surrounded by tourist destinations and narrow cobbled streets.The ground floor of the scheme provides mixed use units with the northern site leased by Bell English Language School and the southern site providing studios for the iconic Globe Theatre directly linking to their Sackler Education Building.The upper floors are lighter in composition, combining clear and obscure floor-to-ceiling glazing with rich bronze circular rods, creating a strong rhythm to the façade, and enhancing the appearance of the once-dilapidated buildings. The upper floors of the Rose Alley elevation have perforated bronze screens that offer privacy, referencing the loom patterns that were once manufactured in the original warehouse.

At the heart of Manadon Park, the site of the Royal Navy's former Engineering College, The Quarters is a development of 85 homes by Burrington Estates on the outskirts of Plymouth, in Devon. Although blending harmoniously, subtle differences have been introduced to each of the homes and 40 plots feature elevational treatments in Vandersanden’s Roxton and Corum multi-coloured bricks.Burrington Estates has established a reputation for building high-quality, design-led homes in the West Country. Completed in late 2020, The Quarters enjoys a peaceful ambience with mature trees creating a leafy vista. Energy efficiency is at the forefront of the scheme: the homes benefit from smart central heating, high-performance windows, excellent insulation levels and integrated PV panels to selected plots. Externally, The Quarters has a contemporary feel with classical elements. Stone detailing is incorporated within the red or buff brick elevations of some homes; others have creamy, rendered facades brought alive with features such as brick cills and brick arched window heads. Extended brick plinths further define the aesthetic.The scheme’s design was inherited by Burrington Estates at the planning stage, explains Steve Fowler, the company’s technical director. “The consented scheme included brick treatments to certain plots. In line with our core values as a business, we wanted a brick which was superior in finish to a run of the mill ‘standard’ brick typically used by more mainstream developers”.Vandersanden’s Roxton and Corum bricks are both stock facing bricks with sanded-coated and creased structures that are ideally suited to residential schemes. Roxton offers an attractive, orangey-red, multi-coloured aesthetic for an authentic, timeless look. The yellow buff base colour of Corum is augmented by shades of grey to create a varied, multi-coloured and high-quality textured appearance.“The Vandersanden bricks provided the perfect aesthetic and finish for the homes at The Quarters and were superior to alternatives on offer at the time of specification,” explains Steve Fowler. “The finished product looks good and works well with other elevation treatments used on the development.”To find out more about the bricks used in this project or to see the wide range of high-quality bricks available from Vandersanden, click on the 'View more' link

The Rhondda Heritage Park is a renowned tourist destination in South Wales, offering a glimpse into the coal mining community that thrived in the area for over 130 years until the early 1980s. Every year, thousands of visitors take a guided tour led by former colliery workers to experience the life of coal miners.The Heritage Park takes great pride in its appearance and the local heritage it represents. However, the aging asphalt roof terraces that covered the old mine shafts had been leaking constantly, damaging the visual appeal of the visitor site.The ChallengeThe Polyroof technical team was called in to help with the waterproofing and refurbishment of the two roof terraces, measuring over 1100m², that protected the underground mining attraction. After conducting a thorough survey of the roof terrace areas, a customized specification was prepared. This specification included a comprehensive set of recommendations for addressing the issues that had caused the aged and worn condition of the terrace areas over the years. To support the proposal, additional information was provided to the client to demonstrate how a liquid system could seamlessly encase and waterproof the terraces while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing solution that was true to the authenticity of the site.Satisfied that the solution proposed would provide the long-term peace of mind they were looking for, the Heritage Park awarded the contract to RM Polymers Ltd.Before starting the work, any areas affected by fungal growth or moss were treated with Polykill Anti-Fungal Wash to eliminate all spores. Any holes in the asphalt were smoothed out or removed, and levelled using Polyroof Structural Repair Mortar. All large cracks and voids were cleaned and repaired using the same mortar.PVC protrusions were removed and surfaces were cleaned with acetone. Any damaged, loose, or unsound concrete or brickwork was removed and repaired using Polyroof Structural Repair Mortar. All repairs were allowed to cure and dry before priming.The SolutionOne of the main features of the tourist attraction is the mining carts that were used to transport coal around the mine tunnels during its operation. Similar to train tracks, the mining cart tracks are fixed into the ground using metal bolts and fixings which over time had become a weak point for water ingress. Concrete and sandstone had been used as a “quick fix” to prevent rainwater entering the mine shaft below but a long-term solution was now needed. The cement and sandstone was carefully chiselled from the rails, exposing the original metal tracks which were then lifted and abraded back to their original condition. Whilst lifted, the underlying surface was made good before the application of the Protec System. Railway sleepers were then laid on a sacrificial layer on top of the waterproof membrane, upon which the tracks and mining carts were re-instated.As the terraces are constantly trafficked by the general public, the client was clear that an anti-slip finish would be required on any walkway areas.Following the application of the Protec System, Polyfinish and Quartz Sand Anti-Slip was applied to all walkway areas, to provide slip resistance and surface protection. A 50mm margin around the perimeters of the terrace was masked off to provide a neat termination of the anti-slip finish. Ensure masking tape was removed whilst resin was still wet. Then a third coat of Protec Resin was applied at a minimum coverage rate of 0.5Litres/m² (2.0m²/Litre) and whilst wet, clean dried quartz sand (0.7 – 12mm) was broadcast at an approximate coverage rate of 4.0kg/m². Once cured, the loose sand was removed.WorkmanshipThe engine houses along the tour experience featured vast amounts of intricate details and unique items and structures, such as “Bertie and Trefor” – the names given by the mine owner to the mine head stock wheels. This presented an exceptional challenge, particularly in regards to the difficulty of working on the intricate details of the degraded mastic asphalt upstands and decking.As a result of many years of weathering and gravity, the vertical sections of asphalt on the raised terraced roof had slumped and rippled, leading to stress cracks and ultimately water ingress. To overcome this ugly problem, the asphalt was stripped from these vertical sections back to the concrete and removed from site in accordance with the Health and Safety policies in place. The contractor then installed new 18mm OSB3 to these areas to create a flat substrate for the Protec System. The incorporation of Polyroof pre-formed GRP Drip trims at the bottom of the OSB3 ensured the timber would not be exposed to any rain water in the future as well as provide a neat, edge detail.To keep the overall aesthetic feel of the site, the application of the liquid waterproofing system at wall abutments was critical. This, combined with the undulating nature of the stone and brickwork meant that the contractor would not be able to install a cover flashing or termination bar. Instead, the contractor carefully dressed the system onto the wall to the standard minimum 150mm upstand height and into a chase.The edging was then finished with a mortar to provide a neat and clean weatherproof finish, in-keeping with the traditional methods of the site at the time of its construction.The roof terraces that cover the old mining areas also act as the main walkways to the Heritage Centre’s tour routes. Therefore, one of the main challenges of the project was the complex planning of the works to ensure that the site continued to operate so not to financially impact the heritage park. It was imperative that works were complete within an 8-week period with 17,500 visitors booked in for their annual Santa’s Grotto Experience Tour beginning in early December.The application speed of the catalyst cured Protec System, combined with communication between the contractor and the site to ensure unobtrusive installation, meant the centre stayed open and the tours running with minimum disruption.The benefits of using a fast-curing liquid waterproofing solution were also vital due to the ever-changing micro-climate in the Welsh valleys. On any single day, the weather would serve up anything from bright sunshine to windy, rainy conditions. Therefore, the fast-curing Protec System, combined with the flexibility of the installation team, who gave up weekends when required, ensured the project was finished on schedule. The works were completed to an extremely high standard with full encapsulation of the roof terrace areas and without a single detail being left exposed to the elements.ConclusionThe unique aspects of this project certainly kept the team on their toes. But they were determined to complete the project on time.The team worked tirelessly, even giving up their weekends to ensure that the project was completed on schedule. Despite the harsh Welsh weather, they pushed on and were determined to make sure that Santa could visit the children of the Welsh Valleys. It was a challenging project but the team’s hard work and dedication paid off.Finally, the project was completed and the results were astounding. The roof terraces are now fully waterproofed and refurbished, and the visual appearance of the visitor site was greatly improved. It was a project that was both memorable and rewarding to all those involved.

The Early Learning Unit (ELU) in Hamilton was relocating to the former Hamilton Grammar School site, which had been demolished the previous year. Axter were brought on board to determine the best type of roof that would provide the greatest benefit to the school and its pupils.ChallengesThis project was originally specified to be a single ply system but, with the school catering for children with special requirements, it was decided that a living roof system would be beneficial to both the staff and pupils, and that single ply would not be suitable.This is when Axter and Procladd became involved in this project and worked together to design a robust waterproofing system that could work with a living roof, and still provide value for money for the Council, whilst delivering the project on time and on budget.SolutionsFollowing discussions, Axter’s Cityflor Reinforced Bitumen Membrane system was specified over a plywood substrate, with an extensive green roof. This project presented some unique challenges, specifically in the need for the use of Flame Free Technology to combustible upstands. Axter and Procladd were both committed to NFRC Safe2Torch standards, with Axter’s Flame Free Neo-Bitumen Technology specified on upstands to remove any risk of fire. The Force 4000 Flame Free system to these areas consisted of a self-adhesive binder, combined with hot air welding technology to seal and bond all laps, to ensure a robust detail without any risk of a naked flame near combustible materials.When asked to comment on using the Neo-Bitumen Flame Free technology, Procladd Operatives Billy and John commented: “The membrane was very easy to work with and a pleasure to install. The self-adhesive membrane adhered incredibly well to the upstand without the need to heat the underside, like a standard torch applied system, which made the installation a quick process. Once completed we heated the side and head laps using a hot air gun, normally associated with Single Ply membrane, to ensure a full bond complete with a 2mm bitumen bead. The system is one of the most straightforward and workable systems that we have used.”Procladd Managing Director Keith Burrell said, “We have worked with Axter on a number of projects and knew, through their commitment to achieving robust waterproofing systems, and their experience within the education sector, that it meant we could work together to complete this project in harmony to give the best service possible to South Lanarkshire Council.The introduction of their Flame Free Neo-Bitumen system to the areas of combustible upstand meant that works could progress quickly on site, whilst maintaining safety and reducing any risk of naked flame near to timber or combustible materials.From start to finish Axter were informative and helpful with initial NBS specifications, detailed drawings and thermal calculations, right through to on site technical guidance and Quality Assessment of the ongoing works and through to completion and Guarantee.”AcknowledgmentsWe have worked with Axter on a number of projects and knew, through their commitment to achieving robust waterproofing systems, and their experience within the education sector, that it meant we could work together to complete this project in harmony to give the best service possible to South Lanarkshire Council.The introduction of their Flame Free Neo-Bitumen system to the areas of combustible upstand meant that works could progress quickly on site, whilst maintaining safety and reducing any risk of naked flame near to timber or combustible materials.From start to finish Axter were informative and helpful with initial NBS specifications, detailed drawings and thermal calculations, right through to on site technical guidance and Quality Assessment of the ongoing works and through to completion and Guarantee.Keith Burrell - Managing Director, Procladd

Langley Prep School is located at Taverham Hall in the village of Taverham not far from Norwich in the Norfolk countryside. Completed in 1858, the hall was originally planned as the home for the family of Rev’d John Nathaniel Micklethwait. In 1921, the hall was sold and became a boy’s preparatory school. It was briefly requisitioned during the Second World War before returning to its use as an educational establishment.Set amongst 100 acres of green open space, Taverham Hall is a breathtaking neo-Jacobian building with stunning period architecture to match its idyllic setting. The large chimney stacks and red brick frontage create an attractive aesthetic with the subtle grey roofing slates accentuating the property’s distinctive beauty.

The new store was built as a main contractor’s design and build shell construction, with a traditional Morrison fit out, and involved working with two design teams simultaneously. The store was one of the first new stores to incorporate Morrison’s new “hybrid heat reclaim system”, and also incorporated a series of photovoltaic panels and wind turbines on roof areas to contribute to the renewable energy targets required by the local Planning Authority for this new development.DrillFast low profile A4/316 stainless steel fasteners were utilised as part of the design, with lacquered heads blending in with the panel for a barely noticeable finish."Thank you all at Fixfast - you make my job easier"Paul Guyton - Senior Designer

Innovative garden refurbBuilder Ian Gray embarked on a major garden refurbishment to build a skate park and BBQ garden room at his own family home in Fareham, Hampshire.Having never worked with Lindab Rainline before Ian selected a plain galvanised system to complement the stylish design of the timber building. A key feature of the building is a truncated hipped shape roof with a raised gutter which provides shelter for the entrance to a covered seating area. Ian said, “we did this build as an on site example of what we can do and have taken orders for 5 so far”, “Rainline was very nice to work with”, adding “Thanks to Lindab for such a great product and service”.