"soil and waste systems"

Four years ago, sustainable developer Citu set out to create homes 10 times more energy efficient than typical UK houses. To do this, the company invested in a state-of-the-art production facility where all the components for its properties are built offsite.Thermal performance is critical to energy efficiency. Citu wanted to go far beyond the regulations to achieve wall build-ups with an extremely low U-value of just 0.10W/m2K. This is at least three times better than the U-value achieved in most new build homes and fifteen times better than older houses.Adding offsite capabilityCitu turned to Knauf Insulation for advice and support in developing the offsite capability required for this level of thermal performance. Knauf Insulation’s Technical Support Team undertook extensive calculations and recommended the Blowing Plate Insulation System to install Supafil® Frame – a high performance, non-combustible blowing wool.Supafil® Blowing Wool lends itself to offsite production because it completely fills the cavity, without any voids even around complex penetrations – something that can occur when insulation slabs or rolls are cut to size. It is also a dry process, so operatives are not exposed to any harmful chemicals and it doesn’t require a dedicated production line.Instead, the system comprises a blowing machine and a filling plate. The system is modular allowing for phased investment. Citu opted to install the blowing machine in phase one, which allowed them to manually fill the panels. Phase two saw the addition of the blowing plate, semi-automating the process.Supafil® Frame can be run by a single operator, fits easily into the existing production line, and can even be moved quickly and swiftly to other areas in the manufacturing facility depending on Citu’s volume capacity requirements.Knauf Insulation’s Technical Support Team provided full training and support during each phase of installation.Insulating the panelsCitu homes are manufactured from wooden panels with a 300mm cavity. The blowing plate is positioned over the panel completely covering the cavity. Supafil® is then blown into the wooden frame to the specific parameters of each panel. All cavities are filled to the correct thickness; something that has been carefully calculated and tested by the Knauf Insulation Technical Support Team to ensure settlement does not occur. And because the machine is programmed to install the exact quantity of insulation required, there’s no waste.Supafil® is a high performance Blowing Wool. It is non-combustible with Euroclass A1 reaction to fire classification as well as providing excellent thermal and acoustic performance. It contains a silicone-based additive to ensure it is water repellent.As well as providing excellent thermal performance, Supafil® has great sustainability credentials. Knauf Insulation’s Glass Mineral Wool contains up to 80% of recycled content. This reduces the amount of virgin materials used and prevents around 60,000 tonnes of glass a year (350 million bottles) from going to landfill or polluting the environment. Knauf Insulation has also invested in advanced compression packaging. This means there’s less packaging used, so fewer lorries on the roads leading to a reduction in transport carbon emissions. All of which helps to support Citu’s goal that every home should be carbon zero to manufacture.By combining modern methods of construction with the very highest levels of thermal performance, Citu and Knauf Insulation are creating homes that reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions – homes that are fit for the future.

Making an Entrance at London's leading net zero CAT A ProjectWithin London’s Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, Holbein Gardens is a remarkable building just off Sloane Square that seeks to lead the way for companies seeking to achieving net-zero goals. Blenheim House Construction (BHC) helped realise Grosvenor’s vision to turn a tired old 1980s building into a net zero exemplar.A bare bones CAT A project, the site boasts quadruple environmental certification, including BREEAM Outstanding and WELL gold accreditation. Naturally, market-leading sustainable Entrance Matting was required to echo the space’s green ethos.INTRAsystems was the obvious choice thanks to our extensive range of sustainable products that help meet WELL and BREEAM standards.A sustainable successAcross the entire scheme, suppliers were challenged to use the industry’s most innovative, sustainable products, aiming at the highest levels of recycled content and recyclability.INTRAform DM Low Profile was chosen in the unique wood effect finish, which ticks all the boxes including validated data on embodied carbon and packing a double punch of sustainability and performance. Cool black Elite fibre inserts are made from 100% post-consumer waste with extremely low whole-life carbon emissions.Specified in 2020 but delayed through COVID, installation was completed in 2023. INTRA liaised with contractors to reschedule site surveys once pre-works were completed sufficiently for the entrance area to be assessed accurately. This was particularly crucial since the Entrance Mat sits in a lower position surrounded by steps and a raised floor level.Beauty and Brawn - Wood-effect Recycled Aluminium for Sustainable Entrance MattingThis smart wood-effect finish was new to the market back in 2020 but the client was confident it would meet their quality demands based on the many successful projects we’ve collaborated with them on across a variety of settings.Today the faux wood variant is a market-leading product that beats similar looking products made of real bamboo in terms of strength, longevity and good looks. Real wood systems don’t handle excessive moisture well, so the wrapped aluminium is ideal and more sustainable too. Read our bamboo vs aluminium blog to learn why.Fir for purposeNext door to London’s Sloane Square tube station, the 25,000 square feet office building is designed to house 2,500 office workers plus service staff and visitors. The entrance is immediately off the street with a small canopy and no draft lobby, so the matting will be exposed to direct and prevailing rain.Technically, INTRAform DM Low Profile was an ideal choice for a Cat A project like this as it can cope with high footfall and provides more flexibility than other systems. This 12mm profile variant can be surface mounted or shallow recessed for easier integration with whatever finishes the future tenants choose. And the interlocking plank system makes installation and onward retrofitting easy, if required.Entrance Matting Triumphs in Durability and Moisture AbsorptionINTRAform DM, with the Elite inserts will cope with rain with ease thanks to being happy in external (zone 1) and internal (zone 2) locations. It is typically found in shopping centres and office complexes as it’s hard-working and hard-wearing with excellent moisture absorption and dirt removal.The closed construction format and extra wide inserts make cleaning and maintaining INTRAform DM a breeze too. This will be essential to protect any materials chosen for the expansive lobby of this high-spec building.

The Edinburgh Centre for Carbon Innovation (ECCI) is a newcentre for world leading research on carbon innovation. Partof Edinburgh University’s estate, the ECCI acts as a social huboffering teaching, support and information on climate relatedchallenges facing society. The ECCI also doubles up as agreen business venue for events and conferences in the heartof the city centre.Originally built in 1777 by Alexander Laing, the refurbishment ofthe Neo Classical Royal High School was the first refurbishedbuilding in the UK to achieve the BREEAM ‘Outstanding’award. Refurbished by Malcolm Fraser Architects, part of theCentre’s unique design includes careful consideration of thebuilding’s fabric, prioritising sustainable and recycled materials.A facet of the building’s refurbishment was to improve itsenvironmental aspects such as waste, pollution, land use,ecology, materials, management and energy.Reaching this iconic benchmark involved sourcing materialsfrom a sustainable background. When Malcolm FraserArchitects detailed the building’s ethos and aim to achievea BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ award. Allgood proposed a FSBironmongery solution that recycles 100% of the water used inthe manufacturing process and 90% of all FSB products canbe recyled at life end. Once presented with our FSB range andenvironmental manufacturing credentials, Edinburgh Universitywere happy to use Allgood’s ironmongery solution.Overall, Allgood supplied a combined ironmongery, sanitaryand access control package that included: hinges, doorclosers, locks, kick plates, signage, grab rails, soap dispensers,paper towel dispenser and concealed electromagnetic locks.Having successfully supplied to other Edinburgh Universityprojects before, Allgood knew how to approach the project,allowing all items to be delivered on time and within the clientsbudget.

The UK’s largest water and waste company is aiming for savings of £500,000 over the next three years in the supply and installation of security fencing and gates across its estate that supplies water to over 14 million people.However, given the risk of accidental pollution, theft and mindless vandalism, safety and security must not be compromised in making the savings across its 600 sites that supply 2,600 million litres of tap water and treat more than 4 billion litres of sewage per day.The SolutionThames Water Utilities chose Zaun as one of four appointed contractors for their three-year framework agreement for the supply and installation of security fencing and gates, with an option to renew for a further two years, worth around £2 million, and one of three for their ongoing maintenance.Thames is looking for savings and the benefits of dedicated account management, certified and experienced perimeter protection designers, engineers and technicians, access to new and innovative products and robust management reporting linked to an exacting service level agreement. Zaun proved its reputation with Thames Water during its multi-billion pound London Tideway improvements to create a cleaner healthier River Thames, on which Zaun addressed some complex planning issues and security needs. Zaun designed, manufactured and installed its ArmaWeave, the highest-rated single panel fencing solution for defending against forcible attack. This solution meets Thames’ security requirements and enables certain installation concerns to be mitigated.Zaun has also put in Axiom, turnstiles, vehicle barriers and pedestrian access control across the Thames’ estate.

Falco designed, manufactured and installed the new e-Cargo bike storage hangars for the UK’s first e-cargo bike share scheme launched this week in Hackney. Operated by Beryl bikes on behalf of Hackney Council, the scheme is the first of its kind in the UK offering public cargo bike hire.The specially designed FalcoCargoBoxes are fitted with the new FalcoSmart locking-app which is linked to the Beryl booking app enabling users to hire one of the brand new e-cargo bikes and open the cargo hangar with their phone.The scheme was launched in Stoke Newington on ‘World Car-free Day’ as part of the tri-borough Zero Emissions Network (ZEN) of Hackney, Islington and Tower Hamlets. Eight new Raleigh cargo bikes, capable of transporting goods up to 80kg, with 3 levels of power assist will be available to rent from four docking stations across Hackney, with two in Shoreditch, close to the borders with Islington and Tower Hamlets, one in London Fields and one in Stoke Newington.Attending the high profile event were Will Norman - the Mayor of London's Walking & Cycling Commissioner, Cllr Mete Coban MBE, Cabinet Member for Energy, Waste, Transport and Public Realm and Cllr Rowena Champion, Islington Council’s Executive Member for Environment and Transport. On behalf of Falco, Managing Director Jeremy Green commented “it’s been great working with the team at Beryl developing the cargo lockers, we now have a tried and tested product which other Councils can use for cargo bike storage. Additionally, our FalcoSmart app-based locking system takes cycle parking into the tech environment adding a further level of security and therefore confidence for cyclists against bike theft”.Read more about the scheme via the full press release is here: https://news.hackney.gov.uk/cargo-bike-sharing-to-launch-in-stoke-newington-london-fields-and-shoreditch/, and for more information about Falco’s range of cargo bike stores, please visit our website here: https://www.falco.co.uk/products/cycle-parking/cycle-lockers/falcocargobox-secure-cargo-bike-locker.html and https://www.falco.co.uk/products/cycle-parking/cycle-lockers/falcopod-cargo-bike-hangar.htmlMany thanks to our models - Glen Clough and Felix Bechtold.Image credit to Hackney Council and Gary Manhine.For more information about the first e-Cargo bike share scheme as shown here or how Falco can assist your cargo bike parking scheme, please contact our helpful sales team on 01538 380080.

How to incorporate a fire or stove installation into a self-build project.By Niall Deiraniya, UK general manager, DRU FiresAlways ask for the fireplace specification at the design stage. Modern gas fires and wood stoves require careful planning in order to work as part of the general home heating system.Gas, wood or other fuels?Decide which fuel type best suits your home. Modern gas fires have realistic flame pictures and are much more energy efficient than older models.Wood stoves and fires also have greatly improved energy efficiency due to Ecodesign regulations. The only downside is that there is much more work involved with buying and storing the wood and cleaning the stove after use.Both gas and wood have room sealed options. This means that no air from inside the home is used for combustion and all waste emissions are expelled outside, resulting in clean burning and high efficiency.Finally, sustainable fuels such as Bioethanol produce a very attractive flame picture, burn cleanly with no smell or emissions and are available in a large selection of design formats. Built-in or freestandingIf you are converting a house with an existing chimney, you may wish to retain the chimney, to incorporate a more modern fire. Conventional flue gas fires are designed to fit seamlessly into standard chimneys and require minimal building work. The chimney will almost certainly need sweeping before installation and the fire may require a chimney liner for essential safety.Most wood fires are also designed for chimney installation and make full use of the air circulation properties to provide visually attractive and energy efficient fires. You can either elect for a basic ‘insert’ fire, which matches the dimensions of a Class 1 chimney or a widescreen model, which will require some structural changes.Freestanding stoves are very popular, as they offer greater flexibility of location and provide dramatic room features. They are available in gas, wood or bioethanol and generally need a flue connection to an outside wall or through the roof. No chimney optionsContemporary balanced flue gas fires are designed to be installed without a chimney, so you can incorporate them almost anywhere in a self-build project. However, they still need to be specified at the earliest possible stage. A typical installation will require the fire to be flued through an outside wall, with the flue concealed behind a false chimneybreast. Fires can be located in room-dividing walls and other architectural features so they can be seen from both sides. You can also enjoy fires in kitchens, bedrooms, loft conversions and many other places. These types of installations are made possible by extended, fan-assisted balanced flue systems. They allow for multiple fires to be placed in larger properties, with the flues hidden in crawl spaces and other discreet areas, terminating on the roof.In conclusion, the secret to having attractive and energy efficient fires and stoves in any self-build project is design, plan, cost and implement. And always consult a fully qualified Gas Safe or HETAS engineer.For further information visit www.drufire.com

The 115,000 square feet, 12-storey office scheme Eden/A3 Bailey in Manchester is designed with the ambitious goal of becoming one of the most environmentally friendly offices in the UK.  This ambitious goal included one of the biggest green wall façades in Europe in accordance with Passivhaus principles. As such, it was imperative the products specified were both sustainable and high performing to meet the demands of the brief.The challenge would be to strike a balance between performance on site and sustainability in the long term. This meant suppliers who could demonstrate a commitment to sustainability within their supply chain were at an advantage. Combined with their quality and high-performance products, Knauf were chosen.Neil O’Toole, sub-contractor for Linear Projects elaborates: “Given the aim of the project, we needed to use specialist products. This combined with the familiarity we had with Knauf meant that they were specified for use within the building itself.”Rahul Vishwakarma, the architect for the project from Make Architects continues. “Knauf offered guidance not just on their own products but on overall wall build ups which assisted in making design decisions . Furthermore, we found that their sustainability credentials aligned with the project.”The specialist products used included Knauf Shaftwall. Designed to meet fire safety requirements and building codes, Shaftwall provides high levels of fire protection enhancing the level of safety within the building for occupants. Using Knauf Shaftwall also allows for greater space optimization, by allowing for the creation of fire-rated vertical shafts, including elevator or stairway enclosures and horizontal shafts for electrical and plumbing services. Ensuring centralized services within designated areas and freeing up space.What made Knauf Shaftwall really stand out for Rahul though was the versatility it offered. As he explains. “Knauf Shaftwall was perfect for use on this project because it can be adapted to different building designs and configurations. Giving us much greater flexibility in terms of the build-up and layout, thus allowing us to customize the system to meet the specific needs of the project. That it is durable and long-lasting was an additional benefit.”A range of Knauf High Performance Plasterboard was used to meet the acoustic requirements of the office space. Knauf Soundshield Plus and Performance Plus were used to ensure a quieter more comfortable working environment and to provide Knauf Performer wall types as partitions throughout the building.  Furthermore, Knauf boards contain Recycled Gypsum along with Natural and FGD gypsum to form a strong core and system performance.Knauf Encasement system with Fire Panel was used to meet the safety requirements for the building, by offering fire protection to encase the steel work throughout the building.Knauf Test Data was used to enable the boards to contribute to the holistic performance required. This was particularly attractive for the architects given the use of heat pumps throughout the building.Knauf Ready Mix Finish provided a sustainable addition to the products used. As not only did reduce the amount of water that needed to be introduced into the build, but it also reduced the amount of waste produced. This is because any unused product can be put back into the bucket and used for another project.Whilst these products assisted in the development of the Eden/A3 Bailey, there were challenges.Something that Neil elaborated on. “At the start there wasn’t a full design, which meant we had to be agile and smart with how we approached the build. We were having to adapt as we went along, something we were only able to do thanks to Knauf. Their familiarity with the systems we were using meant they gave us advice on the best way to put things together. And if we had any questions or needed help, they were always on hand to provide it.”Neil Shaw, Contractor at B&K expanded on these issues. “Initially, there were a few challenges regarding getting a fire system installed. We needed one that had fire test data to meet the requirements of the project and be compliant with regulations. We tested a few systems and eventually settled on Knauf Fire Panel as it was the system that best met our needs.”Throughout all these challenges, both Neils felt that Knauf were incredibly helpful and supportive.As Neil O’Toole explained. “I’ve known some of the team at Knauf for a long time. They were fantastic, they assisted with the design and provided site audits, ensuring that any questions we had were answered and any help we needed was provided.”Rahul agreed with the sentiment. “The project is quite a tricky one in terms of what we are hoping to achieve, but the team at Knauf are brilliant. It’s been really helpful being able to talk to the team at Knauf who are really knowledgeable about the field and are always quick to respond to any questions we’ve got.”The project is ongoing, but the signs are there that it will achieve its aim of being one of the most environmentally friendly building within the UK.

Car lift enables new parking garage for MIPIM award winner in AmsterdamSpace saving PEGASOS lift provides access to new basement parking levelThe PEGASOS car lift was delivered in 2019 by Lödige Industries to DCV Bouw B.V. in Amsterdam, Netherlands. About the building and projectThe Diamond Exchange, Diamantbeurs in Dutch, was built in 1911 to a design by Gerit van Arkel as the centre of the Amsterdam diamond trading industry. It housed a large trading hall on the first floor and offices above that. In 2015, the building was purchased by Sijthoff Media Groep and Zadelhoff Beheer and underwent a significant renovation and transformation based on designs by Zwarts & Jansma Architects and Heyligers design + projects. The new design aimed at three objectives: to restore the original qualities of the Diamantbeurs in its full glory, to adapt the interior for use as a modern, flexible office environment and to build a contemporary addition open to the public. The most prominent new addition to the 2020 MIPIM Award winner, is the elongated dome of steel and glass on the roof, called High Light. The curved glass structure incorporates solar cells, which generate solar energy as well as shade. The shape of the structure, which houses a public space, references the property's past as the center of the diamond trade. Today, under its new name, ‘Capital C’, it serves as a centre for the creative industry and houses conference and event venues as well as co-working spaces for various companies. Offering enough parking spaces by enabling access to parking garage via car liftParking spaces around the building located in the centre of Amsterdam are rare and costly. As the Capital C building offers co-working spaces it benefits from the excellent public transport connections in the area. Nevertheless, it needed to find a way to offer parking spaces for cars and bicycles. To solve this a new basement was added to the building to create the space needed for parking. The inclusion of a ramp for access, however, would have severely limited the number of spaces on offer.The PEGASOS © car lift is the most space saving car lift on the market today. It requires neither pit nor engine room and thanks to its extremely slender shaft geometry it offers an access solution even in very restricted space situations.Today tenants of the building simply drive up to the lift, press their remote and enter the lift for a quick delivery to the garage – a fact that is very popular with the users of the co-working spaces in the building. About the customerDCV BOUW B.V. was founded in 2006. Since then, it has grown into an important player in the construction sector of the Netherlands.DCV BOUW carries out a wide range of projects for its clients. Recents projects include the renovation of ‘De Oliphant’ and newbuild of the Orato Offices in Amsterdam, as well as the Aon building renovation in Rotterdam.Challenges of parking at DiamantbeursThe Capital C building was renovated and now houses a new creative centre offering co-working spaces and event venues, leading to increased parking requirementsParking spaces are limited in the city centre of Amsterdam,The building had an underground level for parking cars and bicycles but no space for a conventional access ramp. Given the integration into the existing building, there was limited headroom available above any potential lift.The customer required access not only for cars, but also for bicycles and egress for building management functions such as waste removal.Enabling access to parking garageThe Lödige PEGASOS© car lift installed serves as a space efficient and convenient entry to the underground parking garage.Cars are being transported vertically to the parking garage, without the need for a conventional access rampThe design of the PEGASOS car lift needs no pit and minimal headroom, facilitating integration into the existing buildingCars and bicycles can be comfortably transported to the underground parking garage. The lift also enables easy waste removal and goods delivery.

The ChallengeIn 2018 a joint venture of Bam Nuttall and Morgan Sindall was awarded the £200 million smart motorway scheme by Highways England. These works were to improve the flow of traffic between the M6 and the M60. This involved improving the link road between these two busy Highways which is the M62 J10-12.Many Embankments needed to be retained to fit the new ERAs and to allow room for many of the gantries that are needed on a smart motorway scheme.One of the main challenges with all Highway Schemes is coordinating works around your fellow contractors, this can be tough at times with works spread over such a small distance. With careful planning, this was overcome and the work flowed continuously for the duration of our time on the schemeA durable, long-lasting, and low-maintenance wall solution with a Highway Authorities Product Approval Scheme and British Board of Agreement (BBA) certificate was required.The SolutionA sizeable number of mass gravity EcoCrib retaining walls are now built along the M62 J10-12. A total of 44 structures equating to 1546m of walling is now spread across the 3 junctions. With construction speeds exceeding 50m2 a day and a design life in excess of 120 years, EcoCrib is durable, and the most highly sustainable retaining solution. Designed, supplied and installed by PC Construction, certified by the BBA and HAPAS in 2012.EcoCrib profiles are manufactured entirely from recycled UK plastic (bottle tops, car bumpers etc) with any wastage or surplus material re-processed to form new EcoCrib profiles.EcoCrib can be recycled when it reaches the end of its useful life.When considering solutions for developments of all kinds, the lifetime cost means EcoCrib is the more efficient choice.2984 SQM of EcoCrib was used on the scheme, equivalent to 222 tonnes of plastic waste diverted from landfill.

Woldgate School secured £1.3 million for improvements to its buildings from the Department for Education. The funds were to cover work including the removal and replacement of external walls not of brick construction, as well as windows and doors, many of which were the originals from when the school was first built. Profile 22 Approved Window Contractor Kingfisher Windows was appointed principal contractor for the works. The company undertook the design, manufacture and installation of the window element of the project and worked closely with trusted sub-contractors to deliver other aspects to the high standards the project demanded.

With average daily energy bills of only 24p, the cottages at Howgate Close have earned a reputation as possibly the UK’s most energy-efficient homes*. Built by farmer Dr Chris Parsons, the row of nine, single storey cottages exploits a range of passive solar design principles** - including a southerly orientation, a high thermal mass and a earth-bonding (external walls partially covered in soil) - to create homes which are exceptionally energy efficient and comfortable to live in. The homes are also truly affordable as no artificial heat source is required to deliver a stable internal temperature averaging 21-23 degrees Centigrade. The cottages instead use a mix of passive heat sources, created by people and appliances, and solar gain generated through VELFAC triple glazed aluminium / timber windows. As a result, the energy consumption of a two bedroom cottage is 94% less than the average UK household. The architecture of Howgate Close is based on designs created by sustainability housing experts Hockerton Housing Project** ( https://www.hockertonhousingproject.org.uk/) with performance further enhanced by Dr Jerry Harrall (https://drharrall.com) a consultant in the design and adaptation of fossil-fuel-free buildings. ‘Describing Howgate Close as a development of eco-homes is to understate its performance,’ states Dr Harrall. ‘In fact all nine properties operate beyond zero-carbon, and instrumental to the success of Howgate Close is the installation of VELFAC composite triple glazing, specified for its excellent thermal performance.’ A key feature of every cottage is a large, white framed VELFAC composite window screen installed on south facing facades. The screens combine fixed units and a sliding patio door, and with dimensions of up to 3m x 5m occupy almost the entire wall. ‘The VELFAC windows play a crucial role in achieving a SAP rating for each cottage of around 143, potentially the highest group of SAP rating’s in the country and a significant improvement of the average rating of 63,’ says Dr Harrall. ‘VELFAC triple glazing has a U-value of 0.8W/m2K which reduces the rate of heat loss while bringing more natural light into each home, thereby reducing the need for artificial light,’ says Dr Harrall. ‘Across the development, the windows are actually net gatherers of heat, and contribute to an annual energy surplus which we estimate will be enough to power another similar dwelling.’ Unwanted solar gain is minimised by the exceptional insulation afforded by the triple glazed units, enhanced by low emissivity coatings applied to inner glass panes. Ventilation is primarily mechanical but supported by trickle vents within the window frames, and by cross ventilation using additional, smaller VELFAC windows installed in the rear facade. ‘Triple glazing also delivers excellent acoustic insulation,’ adds Dr Harrall, ‘which is important, as the cottages are located within actively cultivated farmland, and are near a busy road and wind turbines.’ Howgate Close is now a model development for affordable, ultra-low energy homes and is also the focus of a two year research and monitoring project, co-run by Dr Harrall and Professor Anton Ianakiev, Professor in Sustainable Energy Systems at Nottingham Trent University (NTU). ‘I have also co-authored an academic paper on Howgate Close,’ adds Dr Harrall, ‘which aims to show that it is possible to design, construct and live in buildings without resort to fossil fuels.’—ends— * Analysis by Elmhurst Energy, the UK’s largest independent provider of energy assessment, retrofit and property professional training, software and accreditation. * * Principles advanced by Professors Brenda and Robert Vale, architects of the Hockerton Housing Project, the design of which inspired Howgate Close.

 Across Europe there has been a surge in the swimming pool sector. With many more people staying at home and foreign travel restricted both domestic and commercial pool manufacturers have seen a rise in new builds and renovation of existing pools. Trends indicate that 2021 will see a further rise in local markets as more people cocoon and less people travel abroad. Commercial pool operators are also seeing a rise in popularity and are taking the opportunity of enforced closures to update and renew existing infrastructure. In the UK it is expected that now Brexit has been finalised, investors in UK hotels, Spas and High-end residences will drive the wet leisure market further. In a new feature on their website, leading acoustic panel manufacturer Troldtekt summarises the knowledge, trends and examples which will help influence the design of swimming centres today and in the future.  The feature includes 16 trends compiled by the International Association for Sports and Leisure Facilities. These cover everything from economics and digital features to new uses and products which influence the architecture of pools and their construction. Pools can be used for different purposes and by quite different groups of people. This places demand on designers and developers to provide perfect layout and solutions to create the best atmosphere.  One interesting aspect is how modern swimming centres need to satisfy many expectations from different types of user. For example one pool needs to accommodate the needs of elite swimmers with those people wanting to exercise, young families and wellness enthusiasts. Each group is looking for a different type of experience and unless planned, there is a risk of friction between them. Architects such as GPP Arkitekter and Bay Arch have succeeded in this balancing act as shown in the newly built Frederikssund Swimming Centre.  One of the most important aspects and one universally agreed across all types of user is the control of noise. For example, absorption of the loud sounds from splashing, shouting and playing is essential. This is why Troldtekt’s acoustic wood wool panels are often specified because of their durability, appearance and are natural breathable meaning they will absorb and release moisture making them perfect for wet area installations. Manufactured from certified wood, a 100% natural material, and cement extracted from Danish mineral resources, they achieve high levels of technical and acoustical performance and can be disposed of harmlessly, breaking down in the soil.  Founded on the Cradle-to-Cradle design concept, the natural and inherently sustainable panels are available in a variety of different surfaces and colours and contribute to a building’s BREEAM, DGNB and LEED ratings. In addition to their high sound absorption and tactile surface, they offer high durability and low cost lifecycle performance. Available in various sizes and in four grades from extreme to coarse, the panels can be left untreated or painted in virtually any RAL colour. The theme is available at https://www.troldtekt.com/news/themes/swimming-centres/ or https://bit.ly/2LJJiGU while samples, case studies and technical guidance is available from tel 01978 664255 or Troldtekt.co.uk. 

Location: Bexley, Greater LondonProject Type: EducationalDevelopment Cost: £1.1mProduct: Curved Plain Fascia with THX Soffit PanelsMeridian Wall CopingShadex 260 Drop-in Cassettes (Structural Steel Supports)Contemporary Rainwater Pipes​Finish: Syntha Pulvin RAL 7011 Matt Iron GreyFire rating: A2 s1, d0 Non-combustible (Reaction to Fire EN BS 13501-1:2018)Client: Beths Grammar School, BexleyArchitect: Ingleton Wood ArchitectsMain Contractor: Horizon ConstructionSub Contractor: Specialised Fixings of Ipswich

Banks Road Primary School, Liverpool, prides itself on creating an environment where pupils can achieve their highest potential. The school and its team work hard to nurture a climate where all children, regardless of gender, race or disability, can thrive and grow in self-esteem. The school was looking for a washroom revamp to coincide with the school’s dedication to providing a safe, secure, and supporting environment for their pupils. The project was carried out by Inspired Washrooms, a Nottingham based fit-out company, which came up with a fun, colourful and contemporary design to renovate the school washrooms, using a range of KWC DVS specified products. The full range of products provided are as follows: • 4 x SOLX1800T Washtroughs with 3 wash places and tap holes • 13 x F3SV1001 F3S self-closing pillar tap • 18 x WC03-002 Standard WC Flushvalve Kit with Wave-On Sensor – 1 1/2″ Base – c/w 3m Cable • 18 x WC02-011 Concealed plastic cistern kit – 1 1/2″ The fit-out took place over a three-phase long period starting in October 2021. Miranit washtroughs are ideal for busy environments due to their built-in waste, overflow, and durable yet stylish design. The F3S self-closing pillar tap exhibits properties ideal for a child-friendly area with its adjustable flow time and polished chromium-plated brass finish, rendering the surface coating resistant to corrosion and wear. Chris Kightley, Managing Director of Inspired Washrooms, commented, “We work with KWC DVS on a recurrent basis and can always count on them to provide us with quality products. A trusted partner, we’ve worked on many projects together. Their Miranit composite range and their F3S self-closing pillar taps were perfect for the playful but functional washroom refurbishment Banks Road Primary School was after.”

This exciting project, situated close to a major wind farm, required a sheathing board with exceptional pull-over performance; and the need for unusual board sizes meant that waste was an issue, particularly in light of the architect’s BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating ambitions.The Project: Hugh Baird Community and Higher Education Centre, LiverpoolProject Value: £8 millionMain Contractor: Wates Construction North WestSub-Contractor: Sound Interiors LimitedProduct: VersapanelSize: 1200 — 2800 — 12mmQuantity: 2,000m2About the ProjectAn £8 million, 2,600 square metre project, the new Hugh Baird Community and Higher Education Centre in Liverpool offers an innovative mix of facilities, not only for Hugh Baird’s students and apprentices but also to the local community, schools and businesses.The facility will incorporate a University Centre, a flexible performance and exhibition space, a public library and a Jobcentre Plus. A new Business Development Centre, providing professional training for local businesses, is also to be a core feature.Architects IBI Taylor Young have created a striking modern design, incorporating a semi-rotunda feature and a three-storey overhanging box structure.The ChallengeThere were two key challenges on this project for sub-contractors Sound Interiors Limited. Firstly, the unusual design called for non-standard panel sizes. This is becoming all too common as contemporary architecture moves increasingly toward the unique and, in some cases, the downright eccentric.Secondly, the five-storey structure is located in a windy area; so windy, in fact, that, less than a mile away, you can find the Port of Liverpool 10MW wind farm, capable of generating electricity for 5,500 homes. Where wind is a factor, the pull-over performance of any building boards used is critical, particularly during construction when wind can penetrate the structure and create areas of negative wind pressure.The SolutionSize is EverythingAs modern British architecture moves away from the conventional, the challenges for construction professionals like Sound Interiors increase. Whilst, in the past, construction has largely been a logistically focused endeavour — the ‘when’ and ‘where’ of it all — increasingly, the question that dominates the pre-construction phase of a project is ‘How?’The skill and experience of Sound Interiors came into play not only in applying their technical knowhow to the challenges of constructing an overhanging box and creating a curving rotunda from flat building boards, it also influenced their choice of materials.Said John Sheeran, Contracts Manager at Sound Interiors Limited, “We opted for Euroform’s Versapanel on this project — and numerous other projects — because it’s easy to work with and reliable. Plus we get exceptionally good technical support from the team at Euroform. For the Hugh Baird project, where lots of unusual sizes were required, the fact that Versapanel is available in a larger 1200 — 2800 — 12mm size meant we could dramatically reduce wastage. This material-conscious approach also helps us support IBI Taylor Young’s ambition of achieving a BREEAM rating of ‘Very Good’ for the building.”Under PressureIt’s no coincidence that four 125-metre Nordex N90, 2.5-MW turbines, capable of producing a total of 10MW of electricity, have been strategically located just a mile or so away. This is a windy area of Liverpool. Thankfully, Sound Interiors’ commitment to Versapanel also resolved this second challenge, reducing the effects of negative wind pressure during construction.John Taylor, Business Development Manager at Euroform, said, “Versapanel makes the ideal sheathing panel for challenging construction environments. For areas of high wind load, such as coastal regions, a board with effective wind-load and pull-over performance can be extremely important. Obviously, no two projects are alike, and we’re only too happy to work closely with professionals like Sound Interiors to ensure the best possible outcome.”ConclusionThis isn’t the first time that Sound Interiors, Euroform and Versapanel have come together to overcome adverse weather condition. At Gogarth School in Llandudno, freezing temperatures and driving rain presented a significant challenge. At Hugh Baird, it was strong winds. In both cases a desire to reduce waste was a key commitment of all parties involved. And in both cases, a successful outcome was enjoyed by all.

Design freedom and product flexibility was high on the architects agenda when specifying a mix stainless steel sink tops for the new education workshop and standalone sink pedestals for the artist studio at Watts Gallery, Compton, Surrey.The new education space and arts studio known as the Foyle Art for All Learning Studio is part of a restoration and remodelling scheme at Watts Gallery in Compton. The work has been part funded by Heritage Lottery Fund & English Heritage, the finished scheme provides an art studio and education space for around 15 people. The gallery runs workshops for the local community including life drawing, painting and pottery, and an art club for young people.WorkshopGEC Anderson supplied a mix of Made to Measure and Decimetric units. The Made to Measure range for the workshop area allowed the specifier to order to their exact size requirements. The customised sink tops arrived on site in two continuous pieces which incorporated a lower level top to comply with DDA requirements and suit the height of children working in the studio. These items incorporated a plaster trap and sand trap in order to segregate the paints/sands being used in class from the waste water.The Made-to-Measure units included a large bespoke sink bowl 1100 x 340mm in size. There were no joins at the sink bowl, edges or upstands and the 18mm bonded substrate provided rigidity and strength as well as allowing for easy fixing.Art StudioWatts Gallery has run the Artist-in-Residence scheme since 2005 and the new studio provides all the facilities required for the artist to work there in comfort. Here GEC Andersons Decimetric commercial stainless steel sinktop was chosen for the wash area. Manufactured from domestic grade stainless steel, this free standing unit includes a lipped front and side edges, integral back upstand and is mounted on square section stainless steel legs.Mark Edmunds, Quantity Surveyor for Blenheim House Construction said “GEC Anderson was very professional in their approach to the project, delivering on time and to the correct specification.”

Crossroads CareThe BriefCrossroads Care is Britain’s leading provider of support for carers and the people theycare for. Working with over 35000 individuals and their families, Crossroads Carehelps carers to make a life of their own outside of caring."Here at the centre we have over 20 members of staff, and we also have multiplevisitors, daily," says Kate Davis, CEO of Crossroads Care. "Making our guests feelwelcome and at home is of great importance to us, and of course a big part of this isproviding hot and cold drinks."Making many cups of tea and coffee throughout the day means a lot of kettle boiling -and a lot of waiting around! "This was one of the main reasons why we wanted toupgrade our drinking water facility to something that could speed up drink-making,"Kate adds.The Solution"Instanta’s new InstaTap was recommended to us as the ideal solution, and I’mpleased to say it’s exactly what we’ve been looking for," continues Kate."Not only do we now have instant access to filtered boiling water, allowing us to makehot drinks so much quicker, but it also provides us with filtered chilled water. Thishelps the whole team - and our guests - stay hydrated, especially because the watertastes great."The ResultsAs well as the increased efficiency and hydration, the team at Crossroads Care havealso noticed that their single-use plastic waste has reduced as there is no longer anyneed to buy plastic bottled water."Naturally, health and safety is also a big consideration for us", adds Kate. "TheInstaTap is ideal for communal use because not only does it have a smooth water flowand a boiling safety lock but it also has an antimicrobial additive called SteriTouch®embedded in the touchpad, which kills bacteria and keeps all users safe.""The InstaTap has been a great addition to our facility, it’s so easy to use and we alllove the efficiency of it. I now wonder how we put up with a kettle for so long!"

This year, the playgrounds in Kazincbarcika are being beautified again. The refurbishment across the city's 22 playgrounds began this spring with the replacement of rubber coatings and the refurbishment of sandboxes, followed by the necessary repairs to equipment and structural elements. The work is expected to be completed by autumn.With the arrival of spring weather, many are eager to spend time outdoors, and families with young children enjoy spending time on playgrounds. Among the city residents we surveyed, many consider the area around the Boating Lake a prime destination due to its proximity to nature and the presence of a playground nearby.It is important that children can play in the safest, well-maintained environment possible. Barcika Park Nonprofit Ltd. is responsible for the operation of 22 playgrounds, which include 220 play equipment. The company's staff continuously repair any detected faults and deficiencies, and they annually review the condition of the playground equipment. Some of the equipment is repaired on-site, while others are taken to their workshop for repairs after transportation.Parents can also assist the professionals with their observations through the city's official mobile app, KolorApp. Thanks to these reports, it was discovered that the rubber coatings on the playgrounds were worn and damaged, prompting the company to replace all of them for the safety of the children. Additionally, they regularly rake the sand surfaces, disinfect and refill the sandboxes, and refurbish or install new playground equipment, as communicated by Márton Rosza, the construction group leader at Barcika Park Nonprofit Ltd."The major replacements and repairs, for example, are taking place at the Barátság Square playground, the Völgy Street playground, the Instrument Technician Street playground, and in the Völgy Park. Currently, the replacement of spring toys, balance swings, and swinging swings is underway. We strive to show the residents potential innovations," stated the expert.Márton Rosza added: His colleagues also take care of emptying waste containers, managing green areas, caring for vegetation, and cleaning sandboxes, shock absorbers, and coatings. Safety is also ensured by a regulation that mandates a triennial review of the playgrounds, which is always performed by an expert company. Thus, everything necessary for uninterrupted and high-quality relaxation is available in Kazincbarcika. However, during the maintenance work, they ask for the patience and cooperation of the children and their parents.

The project was to provide an existing system with the new solution that offers high slip resistance according to evaluation group R13/V10* and to make it processable for a series production. For the new work platform on the trailers, a high-quality standard was to be achieved.The task included strict criteria for using recyclable metal with a minimum of waste without compromising with quality. Furthermore, the platform solution needed to achieve a very high standard in terms of quality with an outstanding finish and dimensional accuracy. outstanding surface finish and dimensional accuracy.The solutionAluminium floors for tipper work platforms “From coil to finished product”Optimal production technology in combination with high-performance materials enables production "from the coil to finished product" in terms of reproducible quality / extremely high dimensional accuracy / a perfect surface finish and economical production.In cooperation with our customer and our suppliers in the field of material and surface protection, we have developed a solution that allows us to develop an aluminium floor for the working platform on our customer's tipper trailer, true to our motto of manufacturing "from the coil to finished product".Due to our production technology of a sequence of several processing steps on a production line, we were able to develop a new floor for the working platform on our customer's tipper trailer using surface profiling (PcP Safety Grating Type US), we were able to achieve the slip-resistance classification required by the customer and certification by the Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (IFA in Sankt Augustin) - according to evaluation group R13/V10. Furthermore, the tools and materials used have enabled the process accuracy and the processing speed to be optimized and improved to a large extent. In particular, the excellent cooperation with our material suppliers (special foils in order not to contaminate the tools with foil residues) enabled us to achieve a perfect surface finish as required by the customer. Further processing is therefore not necessary and minimizes operational ways and resources.Quality assurance of products and series productionDue to the process-guided production, only the slightest deviations from the specified dimensional and quality requirements are possible. These are monitored and documented by instructed personnel and employees trained in the area of quality at specified inspection intervals. In particular, the product test bench set up for this purpose enables our employees to carry out a comprehensive test on the component and immediately correct deviations in series production.The resultCustom made flooring meets the strictest safety criteria for tipper trailersDue to the partly optimized tool technologies and adapted or partly new procedures and processes, the requirements of our customer's specifications could be fulfilled to 100%. The requirements of the employers' liability insurance association and occupational health and safety could be achieved with a certification (IFA) according to slip resistance class R13/V10. This decisive requirement was accompanied by the demands for process-optimized series production while meeting the requirements for dimensional accuracy and perfect surface finish.As a result, we are confident that we can supply our customers with a product that lives up to their name and market position.