"telephone booths"

Project: ÖBB waiting booth, Gare de Kapfenberg, Steiermark, AustriaClient: ÖBB Infrastruktur AG, Vienna

The American Red Elm booths can now be found in ITSU outlets at Victoria, Camden, Heathrow T5 and Bristol, with plans to re-fit more restaurants across the UK later in the year. ITSU pride themselves on providing beautiful high quality food, so it was imperative for them to find a material to reflect that. American Red Elm is known for its attractive appearance, smooth texture and distinctive visible grain so was the perfect choice. As well as the aesthetic qualities it was chosen for its impressive sustainable credentials and hard-wearing qualities with excellent shock resistance and flexibility.

The leading provider of data outsourcing services in Australia wanted effective, sustainable, highly secure entrance control at their data centre facilities. Here's how they achieved their aims with Gunnebo Entrance Control

Our client faced the challenge of transforming a conventional restaurant into a drive-thru establishment without available internal space. In response to their unique requirements, we proposed a comprehensive solution centered around the provision of two separate drive-thru booths. The first booth was designated for payment collection, while the second served as the food presenter window. To expedite the installation process and minimise disruption to ongoing refurbishment works, both pods were meticulously fabricated off-site in our workshop and swiftly assembled on-site.Each drive-thru booth was equipped with a range of featured to optimise functionality and user experience. A notable highlight was the incorporation of a one-piece, large-sized aluminium roof system, providing instant weatherproofing upon installation and ensuring operational continuity regardless of outdoor conditions. Additionally, the pods featured commercial-grade access aluminium doors and large-sized, heavy duty drive-thru windows, meticulously designed to withstand rigorous use while offering ease of operation for end users. By seamlessly integrating functionality, durability, and efficiency, we delivered a turnkey solution that not only met but exceeded our client’s expectations for their drive-thru restaurant conversion project.

The Bee House at Abingdon's Milton Park is Oxfordshire's largest multi-purpose collaborative workspace. With a large variety of private office suites, skype booths, nooks, and breakout areas the Bee House provides flexible space for businesses to spread their wings.

Our ‘Simplicity’ Corrugated Panelling System has been used in the refurbishment of 40 Spring Gardens, Manchester. Specified by Space Invader Design and installed by JSJ UK, these decorative (and secretly fixed) panelling profiles continue the linear design of the interior break out spaces and booths. 

Billed as the 'UK's happiest office' this 91,000 sq ft building is home to the telephone answering service; Moneypenny. Planet won the project after impressing AEW Architects with stylish and cost effective products. FireStop doors were installed to compliment the earthy tones and playful 'outdoors' theme of the office design. For the meeting rooms and office partitioning, Planet's p20 slimline glass partitioning was used along with full height glass swing doors to maximise the light and airy feel of the the office and atrium areas.

Wharncliffe provides technology consultancy, selection, installation and support services to a wide range of businesses and industries. Due to their product offering and bespoke software packages the business has grown over the years and as part of an office furniture refurbishment project, to accommodate their growing workforce, Wharncliffe looked to danfloor to provide a long-term flooring solution for their Sheffield based head office. Not only was look and performance an important part of their decision, but with their technical telephone support team based within the open plan offices an acoustically sound environment was an essential requirement.

In this stunning building conversion, Milliken's Comfortable Concrete 2.0 'paves' the corridors (Laid Bare) and adds a beautiful dusting of colour (Urban Poetry)to the meeting rooms. In the acoustic booths, Lightbox provides a pops of vibrant, dynamic colour and acoustic performance. Milliken's LVT in the natural wood aesthetic of Open-Shut and mineral effect of Earth Science deliver practical slip resistance and FlexForm Sound™ acoustic performance.

Neaco supplied an extensive balustrade specification to help transform a Grade II Listed former Post Office and Telephone Exchange into Grade A contemporary offices in Sheffield. SDA Architects designed the comprehensive internal revamp of the property, built in the 1920s, to create Steel City House comprising 60,000 square feet of prime commercial space across five storeys. Neaco’s structural glass balustrade forms part of the £10m project’s signature feature: a new central atrium which brings natural light into the heart of the building. The roof terrace also features Neaco’s structural glass balustrade.

The Advent Calendar event offers the chance for registered entries to win. These include an iPhone 11 Pro, Fitbit Versa 2, Beats Headphones, and even a Hot Air Balloon Ride for 2 people. To enter you need to enter your details daily https://epwinwindowsystems.co.uk/christmas-advent-calendar/. At the end of each day, a winner will be selected at random and notified direct by either telephone / email. Follow us on Twitter @EpwinWSystems to get involved. The prize draw entry hours run from 12:00am to 11.59pm each day. Full terms and conditions are available on the website.

The Greenpeace Field at Glastonbury festival has long been popular among festival-goers thanks to their free hot showers and delicious veggie food available at their cafe. This year, however, will see a new feature to the field with the addition of a show-stopping 20m giant tree structure. Built from SMARTPLY OSB, the huge tree will come alive at night with a colour changing light show and will feature a DJ booth allowing attendees to party into the early hours.

Sadolin Superdec helped set the tone for a major arts event in Manchester, which featured a vibrant display of colour. The product was used to create the perfect platform for Festival Square, the ‘home in the heart of the city’ for the Manchester International Festival (MIF). Picnic benches, bars and DJ booths which popped up in the vicinity were coated with a range of colours from the Sadolin Superdec range, creating an on-trend backdrop, supporting MIF’s position as one of the world’s most dynamic and respected arts festivals.

The £50million development is situated on the Doncaster iPort logistics estate, and is the hub for more than 53 supermarket stores based across South Yorkshire, the Midlands and Lincolnshire. With more than 3,900 pallets leaving the site via HGV each day 2,500 Trief GST2A kerb were installed to the perimeter of the large distribution centre building, site entrance points and security booths to protect them against accidental vehicle impacts damaging the structures. To view the full case study please click the link below.

25 Churchill Place is a 23 storey commercial office tower in Canary Wharf, London. The tower includes 20 floors of high quality (Grade A) office space and is one of the most energy efficient office buildings in the area. Environmental features include lifts that store energy that is re-used elsewhere in the building, and also a highly efficient air conditioning system.Standing at 130m tall, 25 Churchill Place has a VIGIL2 EVAS voice alarm system and an Omnicare EVC system installed.Initially the voice alarm system was installed to service the ‘shell and core’ of the building, with the system racks being designed and built to enable the fitting of ‘tenant’ functionality as and when required. This process is easily achieved due to the modular design of a VIGIL voice alarm system and is a frequently used benefit for ‘new builds’.For the disabled refuge and fire telephone system (EVC), the loop wired Omnicare system was chosen. Canary Wharf Contractors (landlord of BP4) opted for the dual coloured combined fire telephone (red)/disabled refuge (green) outstation which provides users with a choice of communication method.Both systems were designed and installed by Global Fire & Security Systems - one of our Gold Account achievers. Commenting on the installation, Stuart Beeley, Operations Director, Global Fire & Security Systems, said “We have worked closely with Canary Wharf Contractors and Baldwin Boxall on many great projects, and BP4 is another one to add to that list. We choose Baldwin Boxall systems, not only because we know them to be well built and reliable, but because of the support we receive from the company - at all levels.”

The UK’s leading telephone answering specialist Moneypenny had steadily been growing since its inception in 2000. Its main business is looking after telephone calls for businesses.To no one’s surprise, the company found itself struggling for space to accommodate its ever-expanding workforce. Staff ended up occupying five adjacent offices, which were physically separated from each other, as was the staff.A solution had to be found. It was decided to invest in and create a new modern office building befitting the growth and success of a successful modern-day enterprise.Moneypenny engaged the help of AEW architects to design a new and exciting office environment. With space to house 1,000 staff, Moneypenny wanted to have a new headquarters, which were both efficient office spaces, as well as a great environment for its staff to operate in. Staff members were asked for ideas for their new work environment. The industry norm was challenged and the resulting designs were an antithesis to most modern office buildings.Pochin Constructions were chosen as the main contractor to build the new headquarters. A 10-acre site was chosen in the open countryside for the amazing new office space, miles away from any inner city environment with all its noise and distractions.In turn, RCM were asked to supply its 12mm Cemboard to the construction, because of the building board’s excellent acoustic properties, which were a major consideration for the construction of the call-centreEventually, a 91,000 sq ft building had been designed and built, to create the perfect environment for call handlingThe end result was an amazing building, with plenty of natural day-light, excellent office facilities, with great down-time areas, complete with a tree house and a pub.Moneypenny’s new headquarters have exceeded everyone’s expectations. The new building provides the right balance between productivity and down-time. A true testament to imagination, good architecture and quality building materials.

Soundis were contracted by Parkeray to provide an acoustic flooring solution for an expansion at the London campus of Point Blank Music School, a prestigious award-winning music school. With the likes of Leona Lewis, Goldie, Aluna francis and Felix Jaehn attending the school in the past.We supplied our Soundis Acoustic Cradle and Batten System. As this system provides an exceptional reduction in both impact and airborne noise. The Soundis Cradle & Batten also created a void for the underfloor applications, such as their cables for the studio booths. Our Cradle and Risers are manufactured from 100% recycled materials assisting to the sustainability targets of projects. Installation was carried out by our installation partner UK Acoustic Systems.

I first came across Vox Ignis when ROC took over a large project in London. I was instantly impressed with the systems they had fitted and quickly picked up the phone to get more details. It was then that I found out that I knew two of the firm’s directors, Tony and Jeremy, from their previous jobs and we began discussing how we could work together. We now work with Vox Ignis on all tenders.Over the years, I have used most of the systems out there, but I never had a preferred system until I started working with Vox Ignis. Having a good relationship with the team has really helped us, as has the ease of programming the system, and every client I have handed it over to has loved the touch screen user controls and how easy they are to use.One of the largest projects we have worked with Vox Ignis on was the fit-out of a 92-room luxury boutique hotel in the City of London, that required an Emergency Voice Communication System (EVCS). The project saw us fit out the development with seven different Vox Ignis products, amounting to 32 items in total.The products were easy to understand and the team were always on hand when we needed technical support. I have never had anything but positive feedback from clients when we have handed over the systems to them.The team at Vox Ignis really go above and beyond to make sure you are competitive and supported with the delivery of any project you use their products to fulfil. I would highly recommend Vox Ignis to any business as a go-to product for refuge and disabled alarms.Products used:1 x ViLX-TMS – Touchscreen Master Panel3 x ViLX-EX8 – Expander Panels9 x ViLX-ACB – Accessible Bedrooms6 x ViLX-OSB – Refuge Outstations1 x ViLX-OSA – Fireman’s Telephone11 x ViLX-OSC – Combined Fire Telephone and Refuge Outstations1 x ViLX-ACA – Accessible Toilet

Focus is a new ‘ultra-modern working space’ in Dursley, designed to provide comfortable, flexible and convenient working and collaboration spaces to freelancers and local businesses in the surrounding area in the Cotswolds.Planet’s western contracting team worked directly with clients the Cullen Group on this fit-out to bring the eye-catching by design interiors experts OMO to life.Our popular and versatile PURE20 (40dB Rw) partition system was used to great effect for Focus’ office fronts and single person phone booth spaces, with the slim profile IsoClear glass doors (34dB Rw) providing access.Curved PURE20 glazing was also manufactured by Planet at our in-house facilities and used with IsoClear for two of the space’s larger ’domed’ meeting rooms.

One of the newest – and very impressive – developments in the City, 22 Bishopsgate offers visitors retail, work and restaurant space over 60 floors. It is actually the tallest building in the City of London.A flexible solution was required for this project, to include life safety communication for the entire building. At the forefront of the design was the need for a plan for phased evacuation using the life safety systems. The VIGIL3 voice alarm and OmniCare emergency voice communication systems were quoted for the project due to their reliability and capability.The project required new voice alarm and EVC systems which were specified and installed by PHF Fire. The EN54 certified VIGIL3 voice alarm includes 70 space saving, wall-mounted Eclipse4s and two floor standing racks, networked around the building. The voice alarm network is accessed by the touch screen control microphone, with its user-friendly NFC card sign-in option.The EVC system solution, OmniCarePLUS, includes fire telephones, combined fire telephones with disabled refuge outstations, disabled toilet alarms, advanced disabled refuge outstations and standard disabled refuge outstations. These made up the remaining call points on the system, a lot of which were in a stainless steel finish, to match the high quality aesthetic of the building.Installed by PHF Fire, Baldwin Boxall worked together with the team to aid in the design and commissioning of the systems.Sam Faulkner, Maintenance Manager at PHF Fire commented, “Baldwin Boxall was specified alongside other companies. However, the level of support that Baldwin Boxall gives throughout the project, from start to finish, set them apart from the competition.”Chris Hartup, Sales Manager at Baldwin Boxall said, “This new build project called for a very capable, reliable and professional fire alarm contractor and with the contract being awarded to PHF Fire, they certainly got that. Due to limited floor space, the Eclipse4s were installed into riser cupboards within the building, providing further redundancy to the end user.PHF Fire had a fantastic, positive relationship, not only with their client but also their whole supply chain. We had many meetings and presentations on site with the whole 22 Bishopsgate team.It was a great experience to be involved in this project and with PHF Fire throughout.”

Working through our Midlands contracting office, Planet provided smoke sealed extended height PURE20XL glazing to floors 2 to 7 of the building’s internal atrium. 6.7m high Schueco Jansen Viss screens were placed on ground level, while PURE20XL was also utilised along with rebated 1.5 leaf IsoPro doors (Rw 36 dB).Extended 3.3m LOFT100 screens (Rw 47 dB) with back-painted glass above transom level were placed in the 300-capacity auditorium with double IsoPro doors. Finally, banded LOFT20 partitions and matching IsoTec acoustic doors (Rw 38 dB) and double glazed LOFT54 (Rw 45 dB) with IsoPro doors were installed for the client’s meeting rooms and phone booths respectively.The Unity Place development is a great example of a people-first workplace design that hopes to be a catalyst for the regular return to the office for many of Santander’s staff. The building is set to achieve a BREEAM Excellent rating for sustainable performance, aided by Planet’s EPD documentation for our LOFT and IsoPro solutions.

OverviewThis project saw the refurbishment of King Solomon International Business School, which was changing hands from office use to education. The building now features specialist science rooms, resistant materials workshop, drama studio, outdoor sports hall, music rehearsal rooms, food technology, ICT rooms and language rooms.ChallengesDue to the change of building use, a full survey of the roof covering was required. Excessive moisture was found within the existing asphalt covering, water ingress was present and the internal top floor of the building was not suitable to be used as a teaching space. The roof area presented many challenges with complex detailing to existing balustrade posts, live mobile telephone masts and large quantities of plant / M&E installed.SolutionsAs a starting point, the roof was completely stripped due to the high level of water ingress. The existing asphalt covering was removed ready for installation of a new Excel RBM system, with Hytherm ADH PIR thermal insulation. Much of the existing M&E was found to be redundant and could safely be removed from the roof area.The complex detailing to the balustrades and fire risk areas was simplified using Starcoat PMMA cold applied liquid waterproofing, allowing for a long term, robust and financially viable solution. High level roof areas were also detailed with ease using Starcoat PMMA. Successful installation provided a peace of mind roof covering for the next 25 years, supported by Axter’s Platinum Guarantee.Systems in useExcel®Starcoat® PMMA

Client: Battersea Power Station Development Company Consultants: WilkinsonEyre Architects, Turner and Townsend, Buro Happold, PurcellMain Contractor: MaceSpecialist Fire Contractor: Roseville Projects LtdMain Products Used: Emshield DFR2 for Floor JointsLeading Architect Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, who was also responsible for Britain’s red telephone boxes, designed the iconic Battersea Power Station on the banks of the River Thames back in 1929 and elevated what was a functional building to an Art Deco masterpiece. For its new incarnation, the lead architects Wilkinson Eyre and their partners, approached the redevelopment with homage to its history, by retaining and enhancing its place in the London Skyline, and adding 21st-century sustainability and sensibility for its new functional life as a great place to live, work and play, in the heart of the city. The new building structures were designed with 20 to 50mm wide structural expansion joints between floor slabs to accommodate the high levels of thermal movement anticipated, as well as the vibrations from traffic and other loadings. This required the joints to allow +/- 10mm movement, effectively +/- 20 to 50%, meaning a total joint movement capability of 40 to 100%, plus the joints also had to prevent noise transmission and provide a minimum of 2-hours fire resistance. These stringent demands are why the consultants selected the Emshield DFR-2 System, as it could easily meet all these requirements. In fact Emshield DFR-2 can accommodate more than 100% joint movement capability and is now uniquely CE Marked to EN-1366-4, confirming fire resistance for up to 4 hours, the effective maximum test level.

Project detailsIconic London restaurant The Ivy has undergone a major renovation project that has taken five months to complete. This dramatic refurbishment was completed in time to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the restaurant. Although dramatic, much of its original identity such as the trademark stained glass windows remains.The interior design team behind ‘The Ivy’ has previously worked on other restaurants in the same group including Scott’s, the J Sheekey Oyster Bar and Daphne’s in South Kensington.The restaurant has had a modern makeover, the bar has been relocated to the middle of the room and is surrounded by pink leather and mohair bar stools, in the main restaurant booths as well as private corner tables have replaced the original seating arrangement. Project overviewWorking alongside our clients we manufactured and supplied the internal ventilation grilles and diffusers throughout the restaurant including linear bar grilles, floor grilles, linear slot diffusers and air valves.Our products provided both supply and extract ventilation with accessories and optional paint finishes to suit our clients’ exact requirements. We manufactured all our products in the UK at two locations in Glossop and Sheffield giving us complete control over the quality of our production process and lead times. Benefits of using GDL Products on the projectWe offer a full turnkey package including design, manufacture and install.We manufacture standard and bespoke products to suit your exact requirements.

Helmsman’s most recent project was for a company we have enjoyed working with in the past. McCormick are a global leader in flavour, with Schwartz, Franks RedHot and French’s just a selection of their well known brands. Back in 2021, we manufactured and installed a variety of lockers in their new Cambridge facilities, from garment collectors, garment dispensers through to office and visitor lockers.This year we had the pleasure of working with McCormick again for their UK HQ in Haddenham, Buckinghamshire. The client requested lockers for their staff members and so Helmsman supplied and installed 164 mild steel, 1 compartment lockers with sloping tops and stands. The colour scheme was kept bright but professional, with a selection of colours including standard “Ice” coloured body with blue, red and yellow doors.Helmsman’s Essential Metal Lockers are manufactured from mild steel, and powder coated in our factory with our new paint booth. There are a variety of colour options, with those chosen by McCormick being Royale (blue), Cherry (red) and Yellow. The lockers were finished with Lowe and Fletcher Camlocks, a simple, secure and easy to use option, perfect for the lockers required.In addition to the lockers, Helmsman also supplied bench seating for McCormick’s Haddenham HQ. We produced 10 double sided benches, with coat hooks and Ash Hardwood seating slats.The lockers and benches really do look fantastic at McCormick’s Haddenham HQ. It was great to work with McCormick again and we hope to help them with any locker, cubicle or bench seating requirements they have in the future.

Nissan Sunderland is one of the largest, most efficient car plants in Europe. On average, the plant has built a Nissan car every two minutes since production started.Project/doors:10 Speedor Cleanrooms (Over 200 doors supplied to the plant)The challengeFollowing the manufacture of a new paint plant where Hart have a number of doors including several ATEX, Nissan identified a requirement for new repair lines to enable them to carry out both light and heavy repairs and not have to completely repaint the vehicles. This is fast moving environment with the need for a reliable and dust reducing solution.The solutionUsing a tried and tested solution, Hart installed these “hybrid” Speedor Cleanrooms with ATEX operators within the repair zone. We worked closely with site engineers to give them the solution they require, rather than a door to fit an opening. The Speedor Cleanroom maintains strict air leakage requirements over specified pressure differentials and a non-touch safety light curtain which ensures maximum protection to personnel. The successHart is a trusted supplier to Nissan and its subcontractors. Having worked on the site since it’s inception, Nissan approached Hart to supply the doors. Following this Hart were approached by an OEM who provided a full spray booth, after Nissan insisted Hart Doors were specified due to the success of the earlier installations.The review“Speedor is a tried and tested product that is why we keep using them.” Nissan Motor Manufacturing UK Ltd

Our client approached us with a unique challenge: they needed to convert their existing restaurant into a drive-thru establishment. Departing from conventional construction methods involving brick buildings, we proposed an innovative solution: a comprehensive aluminium bolt-on pod system. This system offered unparalleled advantages, allowing for rapid on-site expansion while minimising disruption to ongoing operations. Fabricated entirely off-site in our workshops, the pod system was swiftly assembled on-site, providing ample space for the drive-thru restaurant within a remarkably short timeframe. This modular approach not only streamlined the construction process but also empowered the main contractor to efficiently carry out internal fit-out works tailored to the client’s specific requirements.The aluminium pod system we implemented catered to carious needs, seamlessly integrating essential functionalities into its design. Within the structure, we incorporated designated spaces for a stockroom and an electrical intake room, ensuring optimal organisation and efficiency. Moreover, the pod featured a dedicated drive-thru serving booth, complete with a strategically positioned side access door and a robust, heavy duty drive-thru window system. Crafted from commercial-grade aluminium sections, the pod system was meticulously customised to reflect the client’s corporate identity, incorporating their distinctive colour schemes throughout. Solid infill panels, positioned below waist height and above the suspended ceiling height, added both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity to the design. By embracing innovation and customisation, we delivered a turnkey solution that not only met but exceeded our client’s expectations for their drive-thru restaurant conversion project.

In the heart of Regent Street lies a hidden gem - Heddon Street, a vibrant hub bustling with fantastic bars and restaurants. Our latest installation of colourful planters has breathed new life into this thriving area, illuminating it with a burst of vibrant hues and the refreshing touch of nature. In collaboration with Landscape Architects Macgregor Smith and funded by the Crown Estate, this project has revitalised Heddon Street, creating an enchanting and captivating atmosphere for all to enjoy.FABRICATION AND DELIVERY OF CUSTOM PLANTERS The planters were fabricated, painted and filled with soil in our workshop in Sevenoaks. To minimise disruptions to the busy area, the planters were delivered to the site using a Hiab, a method chosen specifically for its efficiency and convenience. This careful logistical planning ensured a smooth installation process and minimised any disturbances to the street's vibrant atmosphere.PLANTING SELECTION AND SEASONAL VARIATIONSThe selection of plants was carefully curated to complement the vibrancy of the planters and create a captivating display throughout the seasons. Bright and blooming flowers were chosen to enhance the visual appeal during the summer months, infusing the street with an array of colours that delight the senses. Additionally, grasses were selected to provide visual interest and texture during the autumn and winter seasons, ensuring that Heddon Street remains captivating and engaging all year round.CREATING ENCHANTING OUTDOOR DINING AREAS THROUGH 'GREEN BOOTHS'The primary aim of this project was to create inviting and comfortable outdoor dining areas for the fantastic bars and restaurants that populate Heddon Street. To achieve this, the planters were strategically placed to create enclosed "green booths" where visitors can dine amidst the beauty of nature. These intimate and charming spaces offer a unique and immersive dining experience that sets Heddon Street apart from traditional outdoor dining settings. By harmoniously blending nature and culinary delights, visitors can enjoy their meals in a charming and refreshing atmosphere.THE POWER OF BIOPHILIC DESIGN ENHANCING URBAN SPACES WITH NATUREBiophilic design, which aims to integrate nature into our built environments, has been a key element in the revitalisation of Heddon Street. By integrating nature into the heart of the city, the colourful planters become a beacon of biophilic design, providing numerous benefits for businesses, residents, and visitors alike.BIOPHILIC DESIGN BENEFITS FOR BUSINESSESHere are a few key advantages:Enhanced Well-being and Productivity: Research shows that exposure to nature and natural elements can have a positive impact on people's well-being and productivity. Incorporating biophilic design in business spaces can reduce stress, boost mood, and increase overall job satisfaction among employees. Happier and healthier employees tend to be more productive and engaged, leading to improved business outcomes.Increased Customer Attraction and Retention: Biophilic design creates a welcoming and visually appealing atmosphere that can attract customers and keep them coming back. When businesses incorporate natural elements such as plants, water features, or natural lighting, it creates a more comfortable and enjoyable environment for customers. This positive experience can result in increased customer satisfaction, loyalty, and ultimately, higher revenues.Environmental Sustainability and Responsibility: Embracing biophilic design demonstrates a commitment to environmental sustainability and responsibility. By incorporating natural elements and practices such as energy-efficient lighting, recycling, and sustainable materials, businesses can showcase their dedication to eco-consciousness. This can resonate with environmentally conscious consumers and stakeholders, enhancing the brand's reputation and attracting a broader customer base.Positive Brand Image and Differentiation: Businesses that adopt biophilic design can create a distinct and memorable brand image. By embracing the beauty and benefits of nature, companies can stand out in a crowded marketplace and differentiate themselves from competitors.

The new office development for the New Gorbals Housing Association in Glasgow features a variety of aluminium fenestration solutions. Together these have helped create a light and airy workspace and an impressive centrepiece for the wider regeneration of the area.Located on Crown Street, the new commercial office building is complemented by a new civic piazza and has been designed by Page & Park Architects. Flexibility and adaptability were key focuses for the overall design, with the incorporation of daylighting and natural ventilation strategies to boost wellbeing, and large glazed facades to better connect the building with the local community.The welcoming main entrance has been created using Senior’s slimline and thermally-enhanced SF52 aluminium curtain wall system and SPW501 aluminium commercial doors. The fenestration package also includes Senior’s SPW600e aluminium windows which were used throughout. The ground floor glazing has been recessed to provide privacy to the internal work spaces whilst complementing the overall ‘open’ design of the scheme. In contrast, the first-floor glazing protrudes slightly to maximise views of the surrounding city. Senior’s products were fabricated and installed by Scottech for main contractor CCG.The office environment includes both large areas for group work and smaller, more private booths and is centred around a large timber-clad atrium. The use of internal and external glazed partitions and windows helps balance the space, providing links with both the other areas of the building and the outside. The fenestration package has also been designed to provide those using the building with multiple aspect views and daylighting, whilst avoiding overheating and glare from the summer sun. To further complement the overall façade design which features dark grey zinc cladding, and to boost the durability of the aluminium frames, the windows, doors and curtain wall systems were powder coated.

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

American software giant Adobe has opted for C-TEC’s innovative SigTEL disabled refuge system at its impressive UK Headquarters in Maidenhead, Surrey.With its powerful controllers and extensive arrangement of fire telephone and disabled refuge outstations, the system is central to protecting the state-of-the-art UK offices of one of the world’s most successful software and technology-based companies. However, according to David King, Installation Manager at Niscayah Group, the company that completed the project at Market House, the installation was far from straightforward as the building already had a SigTEL disabled refuge system installed on one floor which needed to be connected to new equipment so to create one large system for the entire four-storey building.Said David: “The challenge was to interface an additional Master Controller and various outstations to the equipment already in operation. To achieve this we temporarily suspended the system and used C-TEC’s new EVC423 software to completely reprogram it once the new Controller and outstations had been installed.”Although specifically designed for the programming of larger SigTEL systems, C-TEC’s new EVC423 is also excellent for programming smaller disabled refuge/emergency voice evacuation systems.Said David: “The software proved to be a lifesaver on this particular project as it enabled us to program the entire system from scratch very quickly reducing system downtime. The fact that you can edit outstation/extension names using a PC makes programming so much quicker and easier”As a result, Market House now has a fully operational disabled refuge/emergency voice evacuation system. In an emergency situation, the system will enable clear two-way communication between building management and people located in the refuge areas to, firstly, assist rescue teams in finding people and, secondly, to let stranded people know that help is on the way.Based in London, Niscayah Group is a subsidiary of Swedish-headquartered Niscayah AB (formerly known as Securitas Systems AB). Specialising as an integrator, the company offers complete fire and security solutions for customers with high demands for security and efficient solutions.

We recently received this review from a customer who had enquired about finger safety guards for her home. We were more than happy to advise and help prevent this kind of awful accident happening in her house again.“I first saw the Fingersafe door guard at my son’s specialist school in the office after he stuck his finger in the bathroom door at home and broke it. In a panic being told there was a 4-5 hour wait for an ambulance I went straight to school where he was bandaged up properly but advised to go hospital. My 7 year old attends a SEMH provision and has autism and no sense of danger. The fact his school has these guards I knew who to call after we returned from hospital. I only wish I had bought them sooner.  I made 1 phone call and sent some snaps in and now my house is Fingersafe protected on every door including 2 bedrooms, bathroom, kitchen, living room and the garden door. Whatever the door Fingersafe have the right guard for you. The service I had from my initial telephone was reassuring and incredible. This company took away all my worries and concerns and genuinely felt my pain. I couldn’t recommend Fingersafe highly enough. Personally, these guards should be in every home whether you have a SEN child or not. Until my son broke his finger, I never knew how unsafe my doors were. Delivery was next day. I have included some pics of the products too. Thank you to Gina and Sue. Fingersafe went above and beyond to prevent future accidents”The finger safety guards products we recommended for her home can be found across our website and included the MK1A Fingersafe® MK1A | Buy Now | Door Finger Protection | Fingersafe UK (fingersafegroup.com) and the MK1B FINGERSAFE® MK1B | Fingersafe Door Protection | (fingersafegroup.com) both as shown fitted onto her doors in the photographs.Also, as we have various colours available of all our Fingersafe products, we were able to supply the MK1C in different colours to match her external uPVC doors too FINGERSAFE® MK1C | Shop Now | Fingersafe Door Protection Products (fingersafegroup.com)

Matching their generosity Safety Technology International have partnered with a community charity to preserve and protect a life-saving donation for when it is needed most.The Post Office Anglers Society (POAS) is a family fishing club with a long history stretching back to the early 1970s; initially the brainchild of now honorary member David Butt and a fellow group of Post Office Telephone Engineers the Society now has nearly 300 members.In 2005, the Southend-on-Sea based Society purchased a 4.5 acre site in Sutton, Essex to develop their very own two lake fishery, Beauchamps, to supplement their existing leased fishery. The POAS’ Beauchamps Fishery was recently fortunate enough to receive an automatic electronic defibrillator (AED) donated by the Finish Line Fund.The AED was to be installed in the fisheries meeting area, a location partially open to the elements and only accessible to members. It was vital, therefore, the new life safety device be properly protected for use in an emergency.As is customary, the AED operator’s manual offered clear instructions for proper installation and maintenance, including guidance on impact protection, equipment visibility and environmental protection requirements.Drawing on the life safety expertise of its membership, STI’s AED Protective Cabinet (STI-7531AED) was identified by the POAS and carefully chosen to protect the sophisticated medical device as it exceeded all of the criteria set out by the manufacturer and all with a three-year guarantee.POAS Member and Fire Safety Professional, Ken Pearce, said: “The POAS contacted STI to discuss the enclosure and its importance in protecting the possibly life-saving AED.“We were delighted to hear that STI offered to donate the enclosure to the club to safeguard the AED from the elements and allow us to be able to carry out the installation in line with the AED manufacturer’s guidance.”It was determined the impact-resistant UV-stabilised polycarbonate enclosure could withstand any amount of accidental knocks from fishing equipment and fishery maintenance tools; the clear polycarbonate housing and thumb lock allowing the portable AED to remain both highly visible and easily accessible, vitally important in an emergency.From the scorching days of the POAS Summer League matches to the chilly Winter League matches fished by the hardiest of fishermen, the typical working properties of -40°C to 121°C greatly exceed the wildest of temperatures expected at the fishery throughout the year – An internal gasket guards against ingress.Ken added: “The AED Protective Cabinet was installed by a member of the POAS Maintenance Team who found the installation to be extremely straightforward, and was particularly pleased with the supplied wire shelf and steel mounting backplate, which ensured a secure installation – The enclosure was successfully installed in under an hour.“All members would like to thank STI for this great donation and we can have confidence that the equipment, should it be needed, will be easily accessible and well protected.”

ChallengesSinclair Watt were provided with a detailed brief to provide accommodation for a new main entrance and reception area, product display hall, meeting room suite, additional office space and customer service telephone hall and ancillary accommodation. By necessity these were required to be large spaces to accommodate large numbers of employees and visitors.The building had to achieve seven basic goals – to allow VELUX to be a good neighbour, to be simple and beautiful, to make arrival a good experience, to be a model of balanced daylight, natural ventilation, good indoor comfort and healthy materials, to apply a well-defined, high-quality structural concept, to obtain good sustainable standards with a minimum use of energy, to be visible and logical, and to create value and express the VELUX values.The ceiling systems had to meet the Class 1, aesthetic, fire and acoustic performance required for the 37,673 ft² two-storey building which features an engineered timber and steel structural frame. The project was the first time Zentia’s Ultima+ Finesse mineral tiles had been installed in Scotland.SolutionsSinclair Watt met the brief by incorporating a regular and prominent engineered timber and steel structural frame that provided a design with a clear distinction between the supporting structure of the building and the facades and roof. This was both to create clarity and logic in the design and to make it possible to replace or update the not-so-permanent parts of the building.The internal design incorporates a central street and atrium that acts as a meeting place as well as a general circulation area and allows the best use of natural sunlight and natural ventilation throughout the building. The building provides good indoor comfort and utilises healthy materials.The three key areas – energy efficiency, healthy indoor environment and renewable energy – constitute the basis of the new building. A fabric-first approach for the building was adopted with high insulation levels and low air permeability rates to reduce overall heat loss from the building. This combined with a natural ventilation and daylighting strategy, and the use of LED lighting and air source heat pumps as the main heating source, resulted in a highly energy efficient and sustainable building.Some 1,1,00 m² of the Zentia Prestige hA+ Tegular15 tiles were used in the ground floor offices and storerooms, while 100m² of the Finesse tiles were used in the restaurant, kitchen and toilets. The Ultima+ range features class-leading light reflectance of 87% and Euroclass A2-s1, d0 fire classification, the Tegular15 variant with Class A sound absorption and Finesse a fully concealed, fully painted edge detail.Architect Iain Mitchell said: “We specified the Zentia systems as they have a good product range, good suspension systems, with good product information and good technical backup. They met all the aesthetic, fire and acoustic performances.“Zentia shadow and transition trims were used so the Zentia ceilings tie in well with adjacent plasterboard walls and ceilings. The client is very happy with the ceiling installation and building as a whole.”Colin Burns, commercial director of specialist sub-contractor PFP, said: “We had some meetings with Zentia to talk through the detailing of the Finesse element and put it to the guys on site but apart from that, and some coordinating with services, it was very straightforward. It looks good as it always does and gives a nice bright finish. It was interesting to be the first installer of Finesse in Scotland.”

The Lantern is the result of a wholesale redevelopment and reimagining of a large eight story building in Euston, Central London. Developer owners Lazari Investments have worked with Marks Barfield Architects to create a stunning scheme which successfully meets the current desire for built inner city environments to offer contemporary and elegant work space alongside areas designed for leisure, relaxation and retail therapy.Rockfon were very pleased to be specified for the project which offers 23,000m2 of mixed-use space including offices, café’s, shops and apartments. In addition there are large terraces and gardens on almost every level.The elegant solution to unwanted noiseAround 850m2 of unique Rockfon Mono Acoustic has been installed throughout communal areas, lobbies, thoroughfares and café’s throughout the building to deliver elegant sound control where the use of reverberant materials such as glass, stone, concrete and steel, added to high foot-fall would result in unwanted noise.8build were principle contractors for the scheme with Pacy & Wheatley Acoustics being responsible for the installation of Mono Acoustic systems. David Booth of the specialist firm spoke about the project, “We are proud of the work we’ve carried out at The Lantern, which presented a number of challenges associated with the myriad of services and fittings which go to make-up sophisticated contemporary mixed-use architecture. “The grid work and Mono Acoustic were installed to a wide variety of abutments in spaces throughout the building including within the large atrium, working around the many finishes and fire curtains to the front face of the lobby and glazed screens to either end. Fitting the ceiling to accommodate a stunning feature Italian light fitting suspended from 130 rods fixed to the structural slab called for exacting tolerances and really demonstrated the system’s versatility.”Seamless performanceMono is a ground-breaking product which combines a seamless ceiling with high performance characteristics. Ceiling tiles are installed and completed with acoustic render creating a smooth, monolithic surface which not only offers high sound absorption but also provides high light reflection and light diffusion, reducing the need for artificial light.The system allows for incorporation of lighting, audio and other mechanical systems whilst delivering Class A2 fire protection. It also offers dimensionally stability at up to 100% relative humidity and can be installed in temperatures ranging from 0˚C to 40˚C.Fully recyclable, all Rockfon ranges are made from a core of naturally occurring, non-hygroscopic and non-combustible stone wool. Their surfaces provide no sustenance to harmful micro-organisms, embody high humidity resistance and are impervious to most environmental pressures. With blue chip corporates including Fujitsu, Siemens and Bauer Media occupying space within the development, attention to detail was vital in helping create the perfect setting, which is known to aid productivity while contributing to employee wellbeing and retention. Acoustic control is also vital within places where people dine, with research showing customers are less likely to return to noisy restaurants. Commitment to wellbeingRockfon Specification Manager Alan Davies talks about the brand’s commitment to the sound control and wellbeing, “We are proud to be among a growing number of manufacturers to have its products assessed by Quiet Mark – the independent global certification programme associated with the UK Noise Abatement Society charitable foundation. Its international award programme recognises excellence in low-noise products, technology and solutions to unwanted noise - visit www.quietmark.com