"school"

Kent County Council wanted one-off architectural fencing for its keynote public square, the focal point of a new £16.5m town centre, to celebrate famous Ashford-born mathematician John Wallis.The scheme next to Victoria Road School in Ashford was designed by an artist to commemorate the work of Wallis, a pioneer who developed various mathematical theories and introduced the symbol for infinity. Unfortunately, it required a natural edge to the square that reduced visibility through to the school beyond.The SolutionZaun drew on its specialist bespoke construction skills to produce a complex fencing solution with parallel perforated panels of different-sized holes, creating a zany fence line up to a height of 4m.Different materials and finishes have been used to create an art trail with etched text and symbols relating to his work.Zaun and the main contractor, Volker Fitzpatrick, accommodated several changes from the original designs to reduce overall scheme costs. A pavilion was replaced with an additional planting area, and the architectural fencing was adapted.The £16.5m project secured funding from the Departments for Communities and Local Government and Transport.Victoria Way is a new route to the south of the town centre to link the International Station at Beaver Road and the A28 Chart Road providing better access to the heart of the town.The new road opened in late 2011, providing an attractive, tree-lined avenue from Victoria Road through brownfield industrial land to join with the A28 near Matalan, and includes John Wallis Square, public art displays and new shops restaurants, cafes and homes.

London 2012 organisers always planned, as part of their Olympic legacy, to transform the Athletes’ Village into a purpose-built education and leisure campus with a specialism in performing arts comprising a nursery, primary and secondary school, sixth form and adult learning.While the main base for organising and managing teams from the record 206 nations that took part would readily convert to their new educational purpose, they needed a fencing solution to reduce the impact of noise from the Tube line that runs alongside.The SolutionContractor Osborne, Academy architects Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, and Lend Lease Group, responsible for the design, development and construction of East Village, chose Zaun’s DBS acoustic fencing for the job.Zaun used mixed recycled waste plastics to develop the DBS panels that can deflect noise, soak up flying fragments, and be incorporated onto Zaun’s extensive range of fencing post and panel systems to tailor specifiers solutions to their precise needs.The panels are easy to erect and suffer shallow repair needs, significantly reducing the whole life cost of the fencing system. In addition, the panels’ impressive acoustic-loss properties have been rated B3 with a 36dB loss under BS EN 1793-2.The Chobham Academy, which incorporates the Beth Tweddle Academy for gymnasts, has been dubbed ‘the school with an Olympic playground’, with swimming lessons in the aquatics centre and sports days in the Olympic Stadium.It sits on the edge of the new East Village neighbourhood with 2,818 new homes, community health facilities and over 10 hectares of public leisure space.

The Wren Academy sponsored by the Diocese of London and situated in Friern Barnet North London, recently underwent large-scale regeneration.What started out as a refurbishment project, with some new build, soon became a new build academy, with some refurbishment. A total budget of 23 million was used to turn the Academy into a fine example of a 21st century school.Architects Penoyre & Prasad, already praised for their education projects with two RIBA awards, created a unique learning environment for the pupils, who are actively encourage to take ownership of the school. The new building section of the site includes a new entrance, teaching blocks, library and toilet facilities, for which GEC Anderson supplied three special feature wash troughs within the uni-sex toilets.The facilities area has kept with the open air feel in line with the rest of the new build. The anti-bullying concept of a light and airy space, without a door to main washroom area, also promotes maturity and responsibility.The wash troughs in the toilet area created a slight industrial, but professional and clean look. There also offer water saving advantages over a standard sink or basin configuration.Martin Tye, managing director of GEC, said “The academy is a great example of modern design and architecture and for our products to be specified is a great honour and achievement.”“The wash troughs were of particular significance, architecturally, as they were seen to provide the flow and contemporary design that is simply not available with alternative materials” added Martin.

The Best Western Hotel, located in Göttingen, Germany has undergone a major redevelopment of their hotel rooms and washroom facilities. Franke were thrilled to be chosen to provide products from their composite portfolio, including 100 bespoke Miranit Ronda basins. From standard sized washbasins and washtroughs to a bespoke range, Franke's Miranit portfolio provides a choice of unique composite material, with high gloss or solid matte finish. Optional integrated accessories can be incorporated to suit any washroom environment. Unique products can be achieved for any project - perfect for any commercial washroom; hotel, office, school, stadium, retail or leisure environment.

The owner of family business The Fabulous Fascia Company Ltd, Gary has been providing high-quality improvements on homes, schools and commercial properties across East Anglia for years, but says he hasn’t found anything to match the quality and long-lasting results of Hardie® Plank cladding. Five times thicker than vinyl, resistant to fire, moisture, rot, and able to withstand winds of up to 150mph, the product’s maintenance free upkeep appealed to Gary. He believes Hardie® Plank is delivering great visible results for his clients, plus long-lasting reassurance there will be no further outlay on keeping that look.

Ruth Appleby established Little Ripley Nurseries in 1988, she now owns 10 Little Ripley nurseries based all over Sutton Coldfield. In 2013, Ruth bought a large house in rural location in the town with vision to renovate the entire property, Each element of the nursery has undergone months of planning, designed down to the finest element, the washrooms were no different, ‘I was looking to install toilet facilities with the wow factor. When I discovered the Bushboard Tiny Stuff range of nursery school washrooms and sanitaryware I was immediately won over by the bright fun patterns and sturdy looking cubicles.’

The Mildenhall Hub is on of the first projects of it's type and combines a number of community facilities, including the Mildenhall Academy, Leisure Centre, Children’s Centre, Pre-school, Public Library, Advice Centre and offices for councils, and the NHS. This provides the town and surrounding area with integrated access to community services. Benchmark worked with the Architect at an early stage to develop FF&E solutions to the variety of areas and comply with the relevant government guidance and regulations. The contractor then engaged with us to develop the furniture schemes throughout the project to complete the FF&E design in collaboration with the Architect and End Users, before proceeding with manufacture and installation of all fixed furniture items.

Seven Rockfon ceiling and wall system ranges make valuable contributions to the innovative £40m Harris Academy Sutton, South London – the first Passivhaus secondary school in the country. Our acoustic, ceiling and wall systems are fully recyclable. Their thermal insulation and light reflectance properties help minimise the need for power to regulate heat and light. Non-hygroscopic and non-combustible, they are impervious to most environmental pressures, embodying very high humidity resistance, up to 100% RH. Architect Mark Martines commented, “They offer good sound control, absorption and reverberation, and allow us design freedom without compromising on performance.

A brand-new school and centre of excellence for special educational needs has opened in Chester’s historic Abbey Square, which required Selectaglaze secondary glazing for part of the transformation and conversion of two Grade II* Listed Georgian buildings. 70 units were installed. Series 46 fixed lights were used below sill level transom coupled to either Series 60, where there are off set sashes, or Series 20 where the sashes are of equal size. For the exceptionally large windows, over 3m, Series 90’s were specified, with their larger balance capacity these heavy-duty sliders can cope with the glass.

The new complex of the elite boarding school “Le Rosey” in Rolle, Switzerland, houses a range of first-class facilities. Over 470 m2 of fire-resistant glass - Contraflam 30 - has been installed, including partitions, fire doors, staircases and meeting rooms. This solution - with glass sizes up to 1,800 x 3,800mm - offers supremely reliable fire resistance, 100% UV stability and, long lasting maximum transparency, keeping rooms and facades bright. Vetrotech provides large custom-made glass solutions that stand up to the demands of such iconic projects, offering uncompromised safety whilst enabling boundless design freedom for architects and constructors.

The extended structure of the Isaac Newton Building in Lincoln houses the Schools of Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics and Physics which offer unrivalled scientific and engineering facilities for students. This includes new seminar rooms and computer labs in addition to state-of-the-art technology and research rooms, complete with a semi-anechoic chamber.Playing a significant role in creating the curved appearance of the building was our visible grid aluminium curtain walling. This durable and versatile system can be applied to flat or faceted facades and is available in a choice of glazing gaskets and larger glass sizes. Aluminium windows were also installed throughout the building for modern design and complete weather protection.

Perry Hall Academy, a large primary school built in 1949, with original waterproofing still in-situ. IKO assisted the Academy funding bid by providing a detailed survey report, including intrusive core sample analysis. The roofs were suffering from water ingress, cracks in the mastic asphalt, pooled water and poor heat retention, so decision was made to replace the roofs throughout. New rooflights were also specified to allow more natural light in while the design chosen reduced the external noise transmission. IKO worked with specifier Concept Education Services to deliver the project (some work during term-time) within 6 months.

Products: Flexi light – flexi frames. Flexi heavy – flexi modular frames & QUAD frames. Application: Air-handling units & Chillers. Roof build-up: Inverted roof design – (upside down roof). Diversitech recently supplied a number of their flat roof plant support frames to the REEC School development in Twickenham. The mechanical contractor on the project, chose Flexi Support Systems to support their rooftop air-handling units and packaged chillers. All flexi frames are fully adjustable, due to their M24 adjustable leg assemblies supplied as standard. Pump House carry out full load management reviews of all services being supported on their frameworks.

Berwick Green is a new planned development of 102, 2 bedroom flats and 156, 2, 3, and 4 bedroom houses seven miles north of the historic city of Bristol in Cribbs Causeway. This community provides the perfect blend of urban and coastal living with a wealth of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and schools.Cellecta’s YELOfon HD10+ was specified by Focus on Design due to its unrivalled acoustic performance in isolating a floating screed from a structural concrete floor. This product is lightweight, making it easy to install. YELOfon HD10+ is also delivered in rolls to ensure it’s easy to handle.Bellway Homes was awarded this 3,500m² contract for this Robust Detail Registered Site in South Gloucestershire.

St Francis of Assisi Catholic College in Walsall, needed to replace their existing flooring in their main sports hall, in order to cater for the demanding needs at the facility.International flooring specialist Gerflor supplied 650m2 of their world class Taraflex® Multi-Use vinyl sports flooring in Light Grey (Concrete) to complete the refurbishment project to the highest standards.Chris Newey, Gerflor Specification Area Sales Manager, West Midlands said, “The existing sports hall floor was in desperate need of refurbishment. The new Concrete effect Taraflex has transformed the look of the hall from a dated school sports hall to a fresh and very modern look.”The management and procurement process of the new sports floor would be the responsibility of the Schools Site Manager Bernie McNally who is a former professional footballer for West Bromwich Albion and has also pulled on the green jersey for his home country Northern Ireland.Bernie McNally said, “We are delighted with the results and how less intrusive Gerflor’s Taraflex sports flooring was to fit, against digging concrete out which would have been a lengthy, costly, and messy process. Our Headmaster is really impressed with the new Taraflex sports floor, which is performing really well and also looks amazing, the before and after pictures speak for themselves.”The installation of the new Taraflex® Multi-Use floor would be undertaken by the Solihull-based FLR Group. Adam Kaid, Contracts Manager, FLR Flooring said, “Gerflor have some of the best options and varieties out there and we are always extremely confident in the quality of their products.”

Architectural glazing systems by Kawneer were specifically selected for a £18.5 million extension to the UK’s oldest business school for their ability to meet the building’s design aesthetic and high-performance requirements. The new 3,000m2 extension features Kawneer’s AA®110 and AA®100 mullion-drained curtain wall systems with capped and capless mullions as well as AA®100 zone-drained fully-capped curtain wall. The AA®100 system, with 50mm sightlines, was used in all areas with the exception of two full-height curtain wall screens which featured on the building’s ‘social space’ characteristic that utilised the AA®110 system with 65mm sightlines.

BackgroundThe University of Brighton’s history goes back to when the Brighton School of Art was opened in the Royal Pavilion in 1858. However, it is since it achieved University status in 1992, that the institution has really began to grow to quickly become one of the most popular destinations for students in the South East.  The influx of students over the past three decades has meant a growing demand for accommodation that for many years the city hasn’t been geared up for and this has been an issue particularly in the suburb of Moulsecoomb, a neighbourhood housing the biggest of the four campuses and that has seen itself forced to transform onto a growing number of HMOs that aren’t quite suited for student living and that are struggling to coexist with local residents. Brighton’s architecture is mostly famous for ‘The Laines’ and the iconic Royal Pavilion however the city developed during the Regency, Victorian and Edwardian periods and was also greatly influenced by the Art Deco, Modernist and postmodernist movements resulting in an architecturally rich and diverse townscape that today has over 1200 listed structures with special architectural or historical interest.  The distinctive low rise character of the city is also a consequence of its position between the sea and the downs and although modern living and the scarcity of land available and apt for building put on the table the need for tall construction, the local planning committees are often strict when it comes to high rise and not only expect this type of new construction to demonstrate a high standard of design and to make a positive contribution to the visual quality of the environment but they also require that they live up to the city’s exceptionally fine historic environment context, and its cultural identity.The projectHassell Studio and Design South East were given the gruelling task of heading the regeneration of the Moulsecoomb campus to house the School of Business and Law, the School of Architecture, Technology and Engineering, the School of Applied Sciences, part of the School of Art and Media, state of the art student accommodation for over 800 students and leisure facilities. A project that would be delivered by construction giants Bouygues. The design concept was a cluster of buildings with 5 student halls built on the site of the old Preston Barracks, Watts House and Mithras House and where Goldstone hall was the tallest building of the development. With 18 floors, Goldstone hall not only became the focal point of the development but also the tallest tower to be built in Brighton in the 50 years prior to its construction.  Julian Gitsham, Principal and Education and Science Leader, who headed the project at Hassell, recalls how aware he and his team were of not only the architectural impact but also of the socio-economic significance of the development for the local area and how these aspects led to a meticulous study of all aspects of the project, it made the quality of the scheme non-negotiable and locked the material specification.  There was no doubt that the Goldstone hall would be the heart of the development and as such, that it had to have distinctive features. Julian and his team sought a natural and robust material that would make the building stand out from the lower brick architecture characteristic of the local area however they also wanted to portray the dynamic nature of the future of the building and they were able to achieve that through the use of glazed terracotta panels that reflected the sun light and changed in appearance with the weather, displaying the perception of a different façade every time. Julian comments ‘it is fascinating to see how on darker, foggy days, the building seems to disappear into the sky’. In the spirit of great architectural wit, despite of the contrast in materiality, the architects sought to reflect the neighbouring architecture in the body of the tower and for that they selected 20 different colours found across the local townscape and using a purposedly designed algorithm, these were randomly set out across the facades of the building showcasing the tonalities of the local architecture and the shades of the Brighton sky, gradually from the lower to the upper floors. A challenging task that skilled cladding contractors M Price delivered impeccably. Some of the chosen colours also paid homage to those found on the façade of the now gone The Lectern, which was the local go to pub for the students of the campus.Call-to-ActionTerracotta is one of the cladding resources of choice in the market because it is a natural and versatile material that gives architects freedom of expression whilst it gives cladding and envelope contractors the advantages of a quick and easy installation process.  The Argeton system is one of the principal terracotta systems used Worldwide not only because it is a natural and versatile material but also because it offers a technical and cost effective solution for the residential, commercial and health and education sectors. Argeton is CE and UKCA market and also one of the most tested systems in the market including a BBA and an EPD. NHBC approved and not subject to any restrictions on building height or proximity to boundaries thanks to its Euro-class A1 Fire certification, it is no surprise Argeton is one of the materials of choice not only in new builds but also for refurbishment or re-clad. Durable and fully recyclable, ISO 14025 and EN 15804 (European BREEAM equivalent) certified, sustainability is at the heart of Argeton’s values.' Argeton terracotta is available in a range off the shelf and bespoke profiles, in lengths to suit and in natural, glazes and engobed finishes. https://tellingrainscreens.co.uk/profile-and-finishes/

Halesowen College is a further and higher education college based in Halesowen in the West Midlands. The College is committed to nurturing students within an excellent learning environment and a caring, supportive sense of community. The College offers exceptional opportunities for students making the transition from school to higher education or to the career of their choice.As part of their ongoing commitment to improving and updating their facilities and services, the College recently undertook a review of their campus security and determined additional security was required. The College wanted to control access on to the campus to ensure only students, staff and authorised visitors could gain access. Whilst searching for a supplier, the client sought the advice of a Designing Out Crime Officer, who recommended Meesons due to their expertise in supplying entrance control solutions.

Duo D410/D411 Glass InfillDuo D431 Perforated Infill Top FixDelta Balustrades were pleased to play a part in of the large Birmingham BSF Scheme with the completion of several hundreds of metres of balustrades in this new build project. Balustrades were installed to far reaching street areas with feature stairs leading to 2nd floor. Continuing across atrium bridge links on both 1st and 2nd floors, several staircases, and external terraces the Duo system provided a focal point for the building.In line with Birmingham City Council’s requirements for schools, guarding to atrium edge and external terrace was required to be 1500mm high above FFL. A number of special access gates were required to match adjoining balustrades.

Burlington House has been a home of the Royal Academy of Arts, the oldest art school in Britain, since 1867. Over the years this canonic site has seen impressive additions by a number of acclaimed architects. Continuing this rich history, in 2018, David Chipperfield Architects completed a major redevelopment of the building, delivering a brand new home to the RA.InOpera Group supplied and installed the terrazzo floors for the major parts of this new space, including Benjamin West Lecture theatre, Cast Corridor, Collection Gallery, hallways and staircases leading to the galleries, and public restrooms.In 2001, the RA purchased Burlington Gardens, the building that sits right behind the Burlington House. Since then, they’ve embarked on a bold masterplan to join the two buildings together for the first time in history.The project was undertaken by, none other than, David Chipperfield Architects. The practice has won more than 100 international awards and citations for design excellence, including the RIBA Stirling Prize in 2007 for The Museum of Modern Literature in Marbach, Germany.With the bold reconfiguration, they’ve created new workshops, library and more studio space for the Schools. Existing spaces, which were built in 1870, were restored to maximize space and light, with improved access and circulation.The requirements for the floor materials prioritised high-traffic endurance, slip-resistance and design that will blend in with the existing interiors of the buildings, which are rich with natural stone and classical elements.For this project, we supplied custom-made cement-based terrazzo with two types of finishes. The polished finish was installed for the gallery spaces, and the honed for the areas with more traffic. The material guarantees even colouration and consistent texture throughout the entire floor area. For the Benjamin West Lecture Theatre, staircases were carved out from custom-sized terrazzo blocks.

One can clearly see how functionality meets aesthetic appearance in perforated acoustic birch plywood panels. Precisely perforated panels complement every interior design and the sound-enhancing properties create a pleasant living and working environment. Acoustics play an important role in one’s well-beingAcoustics are important in different construction projects - starting from exhibition booths to concert halls, schools and other public spaces. The best results are achieved in close collaboration with engineers, architects and designers, ensuring the effective combination of sound-enhancing properties and visual aesthetics of acoustic panels to meet the requirements of each project. Furthermore, acoustics play a significant role in one’s well-being. A noisy environment can cause discomfort and increase one’s stress level, as well as hinder communication and reduce the ability to concentrate. With perforated acoustic birch plywood panels, it is possible to minimise obstructions in everyday situations.Perforated acoustic Riga Wood birch plywood panels in projectsWe have recently taken part in multiple projects, where perforated acoustic Riga Wood birch plywood panels were used. The technical requirements of each project are unique. A military base, primary school, cultural centre and Christian congregation – these are just a few to mention and be proud of.Perforated acoustic birch plywood panels are very versatile - wall and ceiling panels can be adjusted in shape and size, overlaid with wood veneer, laminate or lacquered. Panel sizes can be adjusted for each and every project specification, keeping in mind functional and visual needs, as well as installation requirements. This is why we can see the use of our perforated acoustic Riga Wood birch plywood panels in so many and such conceptually different projects.Products used in these projects: Riga Decor, Riga Lacquer, Riga Ply, Riga HPL

‘‘To meet the rigorous demands of this type of environment, all facilities in our academy have to be robust, efficient and fit for purpose. Centurion has fulfilled these requirements, and has given an excellent finished appearance in all washroom areas.’’ Graham Turner, Facilities Manager, Tudor Grange Academy.Solihull Council, having specified Venesta in the past, chose our Centurion Privacy range for the six male and female toilet facilities situated throughout the campus. This gave the academy the long-lasting quality that they were looking for.Installation was during school holidays which meant there were strict time constraints, so Vepps, our industry-leading pre-plumbed paneling system, was the obvious choice for Tudor Grange Academy.Read the full case study for more details.

Le Fitz Roy is a chalet at Europe’s highest ski resort, bustling Val Thorens in the French Alps. Extensively renovated in December 2021, its modern makeover includes a Turkish hammam and a heated pool carved out of the mountain, a bar designed as an open space on the terrace and the ease of ski-in/ ski-out accessibility. In true chalet style, as well as slate-grey interiors there's also plenty of old-school, cosy charm too, from antique wooden skis mounted on the walls, stone and oak architecture warmed by flickering fires, and classical French cuisine in the restaurant.The traditional York roll top tub has been specified in a number of rooms which, after a long day on the pistes, is exactly where you want to come back to.Marlborough

Millets Farm is a family run farm centre including farm shop, garden centre, leisure attractions and activity areas.  This award winning location has now turned to Marsh Industries twice in 5 years for expert advice on how to best support the expanding facilities onsite.In the first instance, a sewage treatment plant was required for its Children’s Activity Centre in 2017.  A Marsh Ultra:Polylok 125PE was selected for this popular destination.In 2021 this thriving regional attraction identified that the existing sewage treatment arrangements for the main Farm Shop, Restaurant and Function rooms needed to be upgraded.  Millets Farm again turned to Marsh Industries.  This time a Marsh Ultra:Polylok 250PE was required to cover the variety of facilities and their associated footfall alongside the increased staff numbers. With installation successfully completed in the Autumn between school holidays.

Ten Locks Village is a range of 2, 3, 4, and 5 bedroom homes located in Market Harborough, Leicestershire. This countryside town has excellent transport links and proximity to major road networks, only an hour's commute to London by train. With off-street parking, natural beauty, and various amenities, including the historic Rockingham Castle, Ten Locks Village was named in the Sunday Times Best Place to Live within the catchment area for a primary and Secondary school education.Cellecta ScreedBoard 28 was specified for this project due to its unrivalled performance. The unique interlocking edges on our ScreedBoard 28 mean that no screws are required, making it easy to install, a convenience on-site saving installation time.Avant Homes were awarded the contract to construct this 400m² development.

After securing funding via the CIF application, Knighton Fields Primary Academy was able to address some of the long-term issues they had in relation their roof, which was beginning to show signs of wear.ChallengesThe existing waterproofing had been suffering with significant amounts of standing water, water ingress, structural deck failure (localised), poor thermal insulation, and several tired old and dilapidated lantern roof lights. All roof areas needed to be inspected and level surveyed and, in one localized area, the existing waterproofing and deck had to be entirely stripped and removed owing to significant deflection and fear of collapse. The works needed to progress swiftly so as to provide minimal disruption to the school environment.SolutionsAfter inspection, proposals were put forward for a tapered insulation overlay where deemed necessary, to help improve falls to existing outlets and rid the problem of standing water. In most instances, the existing roof covering was simply overlaid and formed part of the new Air and Vapour Control Layer (AVCL) before a new Hytherm ADH flat/tapered insulation board and two-layer fully adhered Excel RBM system was installed over this. On the area where the existing waterproofing had been stripped, the deck was replaced (to falls), a new AVCL installed and the same Excel warm roof system was carried through to complete these areas.Works progressed throughout the summer holidays to avoid any disruption to the school or pupils. NFRC Safe2Torch principles were observed, prescribed and employed as part of the scope of works. An Insurance backed Guarantee covering design, materials and workmanship was issued upon practical completion of the works and following successful sign off from the Axter in-house QA team (who monitored the procession of works from start to finish) to the client, indemnifying their risk and protecting the building and its occupants for a period of 25 years.Systems in useExcel®

GEC ANDERSON OFFERS PRISTINE PERFORMANCE FOR UCS SPORTS PAVILIONThe fit out of a major new academic sports facility in North London has included the selection of custom built sinks, work-surfaces, shelving and other stainless steel units, manufactured and installed by sector specialist, GEC Anderson.The University College School Sports Pavilion in Hampstead has been designed by Marcus Beale Architects (MBA) with LIFE Build Solutions of High Wycombe filling the role of main contractor. The area was farmland until the 20th century. The use as playing fields dates from the 1920s.The 18th month project encompassed upgrades to the schools playing fields themselves and the erection of a two-storey structure with extensive changing room facilities, showers and toilets on the first floor. The comprehensive catering facilities include kitchens large enough to serve a dining area which can seat 200. Amongst the stainless steel fabrications designed and fashioned by GEC Andersons highly experienced workforce are a number of base units which combine with single section work-surfaces, sinks and splashbacks to create an easily cleaned, hygienic and ergonomic working environment.As well as the actual kitchen, GEC Anderson also supplied adjustable wall shelving and an L-shaped, three level base unit for a food storage and preparation area. In several places GEC Andersons site survey and subsequent liaison with the project team, which also included The Litmus Partnership Ltd. Catering Consultants, led to units being tailored to fit around structural columns and to accommodate different sized pieces of catering equipment.The stainless steel back bar, with associated fabrications and appliances were also supplied and installed by GEC Anderson.A spokesperson for MBA commented: In 2015 MBA won an invited competition to design a new sports pavilion on the site. Thorough analysis of the topography and the wider views led to a radical design for a pavilion in two parts, linked by a bridge angled westwards to align precisely with the Wembley Arch.

There has always been a relationship between design and the marrying up of form, function and aesthetics. While popularity of materials and styles comes and go over the years, how products look, feel and perform is constant. This interesting interplay is explored in the latest online theme from Troldtekt A/S, the Danish manufacturer of acoustic panels. Comprising expert articles, white papers and interviews, the ‘Architectural Beauty’ theme looks at the concept of architectural beauty and the importance of aesthetics in leading certification schemes for sustainable building. It acknowledges that it is not always possible to harmonise the aesthetic with the practical but that there are some ways in which they can be combined to provide value to a building while enhancing its beauty. Australian artist and designer Jay Dee Dearness sums it up well - “Beauty is the melding of functionality and aesthetics in just the right proportions to achieve the desired result.’ Acoustic product manufacturers, such as Troldtekt, embrace this relationship and are at the forefront of practical, aesthetic and high performance products and design. Troldtekt’s wood wool panelling is a perfect canvas allowing architects and designers to realise their most creative schemes, safe in the knowledge that acoustical performance will not be compromised.Since 1903, Copenhagen has presented annual awards for beautiful buildings, landscaping and urban spaces within the city. The Copenhagen Building Award comprises four categories - new buildings, restoration, refurbishment and urban environments. “We present the awards to honour the architects, engineers and developers behind the projects. Also, we’re keen to support projects and urban spaces that are of particular benefit to the city and its citizens”, comments Camilla van Deurs, City Architect of the City of Copenhagen and chair of the building award jury.Copenhagen’s Grøndalsvængets School (pictured), is one of the winning projects chosen by the Copenhagen Building Awards 2020. The school has undergone thorough renovation and expansion, all designed by JJW Arkitekter. It now has a fully modern learning environment where the original qualities have been preserved – and where the indoor climate is exemplary. Like most schools, it used to be noisy by nature from the exuberance of children. Now, this stunning example of architectural beauty shows how large bright spaces, natural daylight and interesting design works well with aesthetic high performance products. It also shows how wood wool acoustic panels make such designs possible while dampening ambient and reverberated noise which would otherwise be unbearable for users.  Many buildings have unique challenges relating to acoustic issues but all can benefit from acoustic panelling to help contribute towards improving the interior environment. Specified throughout the UK and Europe, the benefits of 100% Troldtekt natural wood wool panels include high sound absorption, high durability, natural breathability, low cost life cycle performance and sustainability. Available in various sizes and in four grades from extreme to coarse, the panels can be left untreated or painted in virtually any RAL colour. Samples, case studies and technical information are easily sourced from www.troldtekt.co.uk (tel 01978 664255). In addition, information on Troldtekt’s Architectural Beauty theme can be found at https://www.troldtekt.com/news/themes/architectural-beauty or https://bit.ly/3jvFmV2

Coláiste an Chláirín Bauder Thermofol single ply waterproofing system with BauderROCK insulationSynopsisThe new Coláiste an Chláirín building in Athenry, Co Galway is a post primary school consisting of classrooms, a special needs unit, sports hall, general-purpose hall, staff amenities and extensive external facilities designed by Smith Kennedy Architects & Healy Partners Architects. The project was managed by JJ Rhatigan and Company and the roofing element appointed to Priority Roofing and Cladding Ltd. The roof of the main building and the gymnasium required flat roof build-ups to meet the specifications as set out in in SDG 02-05-03 (Acoustic Performance in New Primary & Post Primary School Buildings), while meeting the general performance requirements specified within TGD 021-7 2018 (Minimum Performance Standards of Roof Materials and Finishes). The chosen system had to meet an acoustic performance of 35dB indoor ambient noise level (IANL). It was decided that, despite sports halls having a slightly higher IANL threshold, the 35dB performance criteria would be applied across all areas of the school, with control of reverberation being a key consideration in the gym.Bauder Building BoardProject:Coláiste an ChláirínLocation:County GalwayProject type:New BuildRoof size:8550m²Main contractor:JJ Rhatigan & CompanyApproved contractor:Priority Roofing & Cladding LtdThe specification:The Architect specified that the insulation used in the flat roof system should be non-combustible and achieve a U-value of 0.16Wm²k which actually exceeds the thermal requirements as described in the Irish Building Regulations Technical Guidance Document L for flat roofs in schools.BauderROCK was specified to achieve the thermal and acoustic requirements of the design. As a Euroclass A2-s1,d0 non-combustible material, BauderROCK also provided the specified fire performance. This insulation could be used across all roof areas, with some adaptations for the gym which required additional acoustic performance due to the inherent nature of the space. Acoustic infills were used in the troughs of the perforated metal deck, thus combatting the reverberation of the indoor environment.  Products appliedBauder Thermofol PVCAn integrated single ply waterproofing system, featuring a lightweight, cost effective membrane which offers a pleasing aesthetic finish on a flat roof. This system holds fire classification BROOF(t4) for compliance with building regulations under TS 1187 test method 4 for external fire exposure to roofs. BauderROCKHigh density mineral wool insulation.Project challengesOne of the challenges of this project was the ambitious schedule. The use of the self-adhesive air and vapour control layer (AVCL) enabled the trades working within the building to progress quickly without being delayed by weather conditions. BauderROCK is relatively quick to install, as was the lightweight single ply waterproofing.  The resultThe project was finished to time and specification with exceptional workmanship from the fixers at Priority Roofing and Cladding and superb collaboration from all parties throughout. The membrane was finished with standing seams to create a statement look. The roof achieved a U-value of 0.15 W/m2k, exceeding the thermal target, and met or exceeded the 35db IANL requirement across the main building and the sports hall.  The thermal performance, which will hold up for decades to come, will also impart energy efficiency benefits that reduce running costs at the school in the long term. Finally, the non-combustible nature of the mineral wool insulation ensured that the build-up met the fire safety specification. System installed Bauder Thermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system1 Bauder THERMOFOL U15 V FRThis 1.5mm polyester reinforced Poly Vinyl Chloride membrane (PVC) membrane benefits from being highly flexible due to the incorporation of internal plasticizers during the manufacturing process. The combination of materials within this membrane provides high tensile strength, with thermal stability and chemical resistance.2 BauderROCKA mineral fibre non-combustible insulation with high acoustic performance. The dual density mineral wool composition delivers compressive strength, whilst keeping the overall weight to a minimum and providing high noise absorption which enabled the complete system to meet project requirements.3 BauderTEC DBR 06This 0.6mm, self-adhesive, elastomeric air and vapour control layer is light weight and benefits from cleaner, safer, and faster installation than traditional torch applied membranes. Advocacy Niall Hanley, Contracts Manager at JJ Rhatigan, the project’s main contractor, said:"Coláiste an Chláirín Athnery was a great success and in particular the use of the self-adhesive AVCL in advance of the build-up allowed works to commence immediately internally, which was critical from a programme perspective.” Kevin Ryan, Director at Priority Roofing, explained:"We found the system both practical and efficient to install. The combination of the availability of the products and the technical backup received was superior to any other system that we have worked with.”  Eoin O’Grady, Associate Director at Healy Partners Architects commented:"We are delighted with the overall delivery of the roof build-up and the performance achieved. The PE hall solution to deal with reverberation noise as well as rainfall noise was very successfully managed. We look forward to working with Bauder on future projects.” 

Valette Square is a community of 33 mixed 2, 3 and 4 bedrooms townhouses with private gardens and terraces, built in Salford’s historic centre. Developed by @buttressarchitects , it was designed to introduce new homes to the area, create easy links to nearby areas and for community spaces to exist where possible.The area is named after Pierre Adolphe Valette – a French impressionist who taught the local painter L.S Lowry, and taught at the Manchester Municipal School of Art. The local existing Georgian aesthetics were echoed in the development with Floren’s Brunello bricks being selected for their tones and subtlety, leaning towards nearby red brick buildings.Amongst numerous sustainable efforts, the townhouses’ façade and positioning make the most of natural daylight to reduce the amount of artificial lighting needed, improved insulation and smart heating systems.Valette Square was shortlisted for the Housing Design Award in 2020

The Marshall Building is a new mixed-use education building for the London School of Economics. Designed by Grafton Architects, the interior enhances the student experience and offers visually fascinating architecture.The design includes a helical concrete staircase that starts from ground floor up to the teaching spaces on the first and second floor. The interior cathedral-like space comprises large spanning concrete ‘trees’ in a cruciform arrangement which was inspired by the local 17th century chapel’s architecture. The unpainted concrete surfaces were decorated using KEIM Concretal Lasur, a colourwash stain that enhances and protects the substrate whilst retaining the look and feel of concrete. We are delighted that this project has won several awards, Civic Trust Awards – National Panel Special Award 2023, AJ Architecture Awards 2022 and Education Estates Awards 2022, to name a few. 

Project: Goole Town Center, YorkshireGOplastic Ltd were delighted to be contacted by the architectural assistant at East Riding Council with a view to getting involved with town centre improvement.Goole Town Centre has now been furnished with the very latest modern and contemporary designs available from Goplastic, with a contrasting colour theme to great effect. Historically, recycled products tended to be basic in style and brown or black but GOplastic has successfully accomplished its’ vision to bring unique designs with more colour into the materials, which are now in demand in schools, academies, leisure centres and public spaces. The Matrix 08 Picnic table (pictured), is 2m long and seats 6 – 8 comfortably. The Matrix 05 bench (also pictured), can be teamed with the London table as shown, or serve as a single bench seat with back. Planters from the Agora range complemented the seating range.

This is the new series of semi-vertical cycle parking Falco installed this month for BBC Studio’s new Bridgewater House production base, located in Bristol City Centre.Falco manufactured, supplied and installed 110 spaces of the innovative space-efficient FalcoVert-Pro semi-vertical cycle rack, providing employees and visitors to the broadcaster with secure and accessible cycle parking.The popular FalcoVert-Pro design was chosen for its capability to be located within compact areas, such as the facility shown here, providing cyclists with up to 30% more cycle parking spaces compared to using any other traditional cycle rack or stand.The compact cycle rack is capable of accommodating all types of cycles – from racing cycle to mountain bikes and even cycles with extra wide tyres.The recent installation shown here at is just one of many underground environments Falco has supplied and installed cycle parking equipment for. Other recent examples include two-tier cycle racks for Macquarie Bank in London, two-tier cycle parking for three flagship Selfridges stores across the UK, VelowUp® vertical cycle stands and two-tier cycle racks for the University of Edinburgh, 150 two-tier cycle rack spaces for Marks & Spencer at Paddington Basin in London as well as semi-vertical cycle parking for Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London.Semi-Vertical Cycle RackThe FalcoVert-Pro is an innovative and space efficient cycle rack design ideal for cycle hubs, shopping centres, stations, car parks and private businesses. Bicycles are parked semi vertically with both front and rear wheels located in a custom designed trough.The FalcoVert-Pro is increasingly used to maximise the amount of cycle spaces within any given area and as shown here at The Guildhall School of Music and Drama, with an increase of treble the amount of cycle sapces compared to traditional Sheffield Stands.Please click here to see the FalcoVert-Pro product page.For more information about the innovative semi-vertical cycle rack, please contact our helpful sales team on 01538 380080.

The Sands - Durham WaterfrontArchitect: Ryder Architecture LtdInstaller: Pennine ContractsProduct: Durlum Polylam BafflesLSA Projects supplied over 300 linear metres of Durlum Polylam baffles to the new facility The Sands on Durham Waterfront in the city centre. The new riverside development was intended to move the County Council headquarters into the city centre for improved public transport connections for staff and other visitors.In 2022 the building applied for change of use planning to convert the landmark building into additional learning spaces for Durham University Business School. The change of use allows the department of the Russell Group university to move straight into the ready-made facility after delays with their original plans for a different site.The £50m facility has space for the 2,300 students and members of staff at the business school across the 1.4 hectare site. In addition to traditional learning spaces the building has modern working space for staff and academics and hopes to attract leading businesses to work with the university and graduates.Durlum Polylam baffles were used for the feature ceiling in the main event space. The ceiling is made up of 320mm deep 100mm wide baffles in concentric squares with the outer square measuring an impressive 20 metres across. Polylam pieces were finished in a Dur-Graphic faux Cherry veneer print and mounted in 9 double-row rings with alternating strip lighting and integrated ventilation systems.Polylam from Durlum is a versatile ceiling system made up of vertical baffles available in a range of sizes up to 100mm wide by 800mm deep. Pieces can be installed using suspension grid systems available from Durlum in a variety of ways including independent mounting and group mounting with regular spacing and options for demount-ability.Baffles are made from either galvanised sheet steel or aluminium and finished in a choice of RAL colour powdercoating as a standard with options for gloss and metallic finishes as well as Dur-Graphic and Duroplan printed designs. Acoustic perforations can also be applied to the baffles as well as incorporating Dur-Sonic acoustic mineral wool filling to the inside of the hollow baffle lengths.

With several stops marked out on the future Crossrail route, new-builds on the rise, and an impressive range of ‘Outstanding’ schools, this culturally diverse borough of Ealing is becoming more popular than ever. To meet this popularity new-build property is on the rise however there is strict guidance on design of new buildings. Licata Building Systems in partnership with Build-Therm Services Limited were commissioned to specify and supply the façade systems for The Vale apartments. A prestigious block on Connell Crescent, The Vale was subject to planning guidance that insisted the block remained in-keeping with the more traditional neighboring blocks. The system installed is Licata FireSafe Brick slips. Using a 7mm extruded brick slip the system is one of the lighest systems available on the market. Coupled with class A2 fire performance and a U-value of 0.039W/mK, the apartments not only met all NHBC and local planning design criteria but provides the occupant a safe and energy efficient environment.

English National Ballet and the English National Ballet School have moved to a brand new world-class home at London City Island. Designed by award-winning architects Glenn Howells Architects working together with fit-out and refurbishment experts BW, the new building provides 93,000 sq ft of unprecedented facilities. The enormous project for Harlequin Floors involved the completion of eight rehearsal studios. Harlequin Activity sprung flooring was installed with Harlequin Cascade vinyl performance surface.Completed installation of over 1900m2 of Harlequin Activity sprung floor and Harlequin Cascade vinyl surface and a further 200m2 of Harlequin Standfast vinyl performance surface in fitness and rehab facilities. Additionally, 225m2 Harlequin Liberty sprung floor panels were supplied for the Company to take on tour. Initially hired as temporary floors for the rehearsal studio space at Here East during the construction phase, these were then purchased for touring use.