"timber"

Artform Urban provide modern and stylish cantilever seating to a new Arts and Humanities facility, at the University of Liverpool. The Yoko Ono Lennon Centre is a newly built teaching and performance building, named in honour of Yoko Ono Lennon, an Honorary Graduate of the University (Hon LLD 2001), campaign ambassador and long-standing philanthropic supporter. It houses the 400 seat Tung Auditorium with space for a 70 piece orchestra, as well as a state of the art 600 seat lecture theatre. Architects and lead designers Ellis Williams worked alongside a number of acoustic and structural engineers in order to achieve optimum acoustic profile and capacity for the orchestra. Artform Urban was appointed by HA Civils to provide seating elements for the landscaped exterior space of the building. The Generation 50 Seat with cantilevered legs was specified for the project due to its minimal and contemporary design that includes a curved timber cladding that echoes that of the main entrance of the building. It is the first installation of Generation 50 in the UK. The Generation 50 range was designed by Robert Chipman and offers a flexible ensemble of style and mounting options.Available with four different cast aluminium powder-coated leg fixing options, a range of armrests and a number of timber options including ipe, jarrah, and thermally modified ash. Providing a perfect addition to complete a range of urban landscapes. The Yoko Ono Lennon Centre will develop a programme of new public-facing cultural highlights including concerts, lectures as well as other events in the University calendar, and will be the new home to the Music Department’s popular Lunchtime Concert Series.Yoko Ono Lennon said:“It gives me great pleasure to know that this centre will serve as a new opportunity for countless future artists and musicians to communicate their work with the local audience in Liverpool, and the world beyond. I can’t wait to see what exciting new work is on its way.” (source)

Riverside Campus at City of Glasgow College has won a multitude of architectural awards for its outstanding design. Home to the world-leading Maritime College, the building features a grand atrium where Junckers 22mm Oak Harmony finished in Ultramatt lacquer was specified for the expansive staircase and walkway. Designed in a joint venture between Reiach and Hall Architects and Michael Laird Architects, the building is BREEAM ‘Excellent’ with many innovative on-site energy generation measures. Junckers solid hardwood flooring is made from renewable, sustainable forests and the entire manufacturing process is powered by Junckers’ own on-site power plant, which uses the residual wood of the forested timber. The Oak Harmony floor adds natural warmth to the large, open space and provides a hard-wearing surface for a busy college environment.

An award-winning, luxury home in the beautiful Hampshire countryside, 4 Views is designed to make the most of its location, also makes its own bold statement thanks to an imaginative combination of materials, including lass, timber and bricks created by the innovation-led, manufacturer, Vandersanden. A remarkable new build with a distinctive architectural design from Winchester-based firm, AR Design Studio, 4 Views incorporates Dark Vandersanden Morvan brickwork which creates tonal contrast with cedar cladding and floor to ceiling glass doors and windows to set this home apart, giving it a balanced, calm identity, at one with the landscape.To find out more about the bricks used in this project or to see the wide range of high-quality bricks available from Vandersanden, click on the 'View more' link 

ASF worked with a local urban designer to develop a unique bollard design for the Whitwood Project. ASF's in house pattern makers worked with the designer to produce a polystyrene tool, then a handmade timber model of the product which was used for wider approval in the scheme. Once approved the pattern was handmade and the bollards hand cast on our furane (airset) plant. The iron used was 100% recycled, melting down old, used vehicle brake discs and turning the molten metal into the sand moulds to manufacture the bollards.Although the bollards are cast iron, a material often associated with traditional styles, these particular ones offer sleek tapered lines and a steeply mitred top. The benefit of casting is that complex detailing can be included so these bollards have an inset leaf motif with an elongated teardrop that runs almost the full length of the post.

Durability, sustainability and innovation underpin the design of the Aspen Art Museum, located in the state of Colorado, USA. The building’s most striking feature is its exterior facade made of NATURCLAD-W panels, which provides it with protection against Aspen’s cold weather. PARKLEX PRODEMA worked closely with the architectural team to produce a mock-up of the facade prior to construction.The woven NATURCLAD-W exterior and timber support frame for the roof diffuse the light that enters through the glass walls and skylight. This innovative concept maximises the natural light of the interior whilst minimising its exposure to direct sunlight.The design concept of the building mimics the ‘thermos’ principle, whereby interior rooms are kept at a constant temperature by protective exterior spaces. These so-called ‘wrapper’ spaces support air circulation and serve as a visual connection to the outdoors.

The £26m Dover District Leisure Centre features the first swimming pool in Kent to be purpose-built to Sport England specifications for a county standard competition swimming pool. Other facilities at the centre include a learner pool with a moveable floor, sports hall, interactive climbing arena, fitness studios, gym, squash courts, outdoor five-a-side 3G pitches, sauna and steam room, café, and 250 parking spaces.SolutionDortek doors are specially designed for wet applications and meet the Sport England design guidance requirements. Dortek access solutions are built to withstand severe temperature variations and damp conditions, they are also bacteria and corrosion-resistant. Their timber free construction means they will not rot, rust or warp even after years of exposure to water and cleaning agents.

Project: Bin Bays for Worthing HomesWorthing Homes recently completed an external project at Pearson’s Retreat, Worthing.The original timber bin bays had seen better days and were in much need of repair or replacement.Worthing Homes chose Normandy bin bay panels from Goplastic Ltd, and uniquely designed bays which also incorporated large clothes drying areas.The panels, which come ready assembled in various heights and widths, are constructed from solid recycled plastic meaning the bays are extremely robust, weather proof and maintenance free.Normandy Bin Bay Panels have been used to create neat communal areas for housing bins and drying clothes.Job type: Supply onlyContractor: Worthing Homes

Located in Brixton, The Department Store Studios is a five-storey contemporary office building, offering flexible co-working space alongside generous amenities including a bike storage, showers, lockers, a screening room and a bar and restaurant. The workspace has been designed and built by renowned architecture firm Squire and Partners, to be used as an addition to its own London office, in a new build property framed by cross-laminated timber. Early involvement with brickwork contractor, Lyons & Annoot, allowed for a seamless, homogenous brick build on this project. Working alongside main contractor Lyons and Annoot, from tender stage to completion, Leviat designed and manufactured a bespoke masonry restraint system which was used in the internal blockwork walls, as well as Ancon Wall Ties, Head Restraints and AMR Masonry Reinforcement in the façade.

Canal Architectural were approached to design, manufacture and install a feature staircase for an iconic art Deco building in London. The commercial development is home to an array of international businesses and features a large interconnecting staircase and large terrace.The 35,000 sq ft development featured a large helical, mild steel staircase in the central atrium. The posts were fixed through the timber treads and featured 8mm steel tread plates and a satin polished handrail. The entire staircase site sprayed to suit the client specifications and blend with the avant garde surroundings.The Canal site installation team worked closely with the contractor throughout the entire process to ensure smooth delivery in line with current building regulations. Canal Architectural are proud to have engineered exquisite bespoke architectural metalwork on this iconic project.Photo credit: Signature London

Haling Park Road is a development consisting of nine self-contained residential units with dedicated parking spaces for each flat. Located only minutes from East Croydon Station, each timber frame unit accommodates four individuals, providing a new beginning for singles and families. The lower ground floor level is screened from the public, providing privacy to its residents, with accommodation throughout the roof space.Cellecta’s ScreedBoard 28 was specified by Tone Architecture due to it being suitable for all floor types and is frequently viewed as the solution of choice for new build and refurbishment developments. Its interlocking edges for installation convenience, high density, and unique resilient layer provides unrivalled acoustic performance.Signature Living were supplied 500m² of Cellecta products for this development in Croydon.

Sirius is an office block converted to apartments in Coventry city centre. The existing building on Ironmonger Row is being transformed into an architectural gem. The project will see two storeys added while the existing brick fins on the mid-century building will be clad in a bronze-coloured metal. There will be 28 one-bedroom apartments and eight two-bedroom duplex apartments on the top two floors, overlooking the adjacent square.Cellecta’s DECKfon Batten 70 was specified by EDG Property. The battens consist of a layer of recycled, low resonance, open cell, flexible polyurethane foam bonded to an FSC/PEFC certified timber batten. These battens have been rigorously tested and are ideal for various sub floors, making DECKfon Batten 70 the best solution for this project.EDG Build was awarded this 1,800m² contract to construct this redevelopment.

Project: The Hamptons, GillinghamDate: April 2020 to February 2021 Background:·        The building was identified as having combustible cladding and was required to be re-clad with an A1 non-combustible system·        APL acted as the principal designer of the replacement cladding system, material supplier and fabricator, including all sub-grid, Slimwall™ Weatherboard & aluminium panels and fixings/accessories Systems:·        2,500m² of APL Slimwall™ CPS/SSF external rainscreen panels, including curved areas, with a 3-layer PvF2 coating in a bespoke colour to match the previous cladding·        500m² of APL Slimwall™ Weatherboard to replace combustible timber cladding·        Curved cappings with Class 2 PPC coating·        APL AluE Tritherm™ aluminium sub-framing, extrusions and fixings Building Location:·        Gillingham, ME

The children’s hospital is the largest centre for child heart surgery in the UK and one of the largest centres for heart transplantation in the world. The hospital is constructing a new building which will contain an Intraoperative Magnetic Resonance suite as well as physiotherapy and rehabilitation facilities. The suite will enable surgical teams to check whether complex procedures have worked, before patients wake up.Dortek supplied our specialist hybrid doors which are hygienic, lead-lined, fire-rated, automated and hermetically sealing. Our doors are specifically constructed for high hygiene areas and are completely free from timber or other organic materials which can harbour bacteria. The doors play an essential role in preventing cross-contamination as well as providing certified fire and x-ray protection and ensuring safe and efficient access for patients and staff.

TRC has been working in partnership with the Decent Homes Programme for over 25 years and has worked on more than 10 projects simultaneously. In the last 15 years alone, TRC has successfully supplied and installed more than 10,000 timber sash windows for council housing projects in London, Manchester and Liverpool, and more recently for the Decent Homes scheme in Camden, London.The Decent Homes Programme was launched in 2000 by the UK government as a housing initiative to ensure all social housing throughout the UK met a set standard of decency. This meant ensuring facilities, services, thermal comfort and state of repair all achieved a reasonable standard. The overall aim of the project was to transform neighbourhoods, properties and residents’ lives, and to leave social legacies would live on long after the work was complete.

SMET Supported Partner, Brendan Doherty Screeding Services supplied Südanit 280 Alpha Hemihydrate Screed and SMET LiteFlo® Lightweight Flowing Screed for the floor solution in this self-build in picturesque West Donegal.The ground floor was prepared with 280 Alpha Hemihydrate Screed at 50mm with UFH, maximising the clients’ insulation. The first floor was completed at 50 mm SMET LiteFlo® Lightweight Flowing Screed poured on UFH on timber joists.The 280 Alpha Hemihydrate Screed self-levelling liquid screed is remarkably quick to walk-on – applied at 500m² per day and walkable within 6 hours thus ensuring the follow-on trades were not delayed. it’s particularly suitable for use with UFH, fully encapsulating pipes and services, providing excellent heat transfer – and with thinner floors and more insulation – this increases the performance of underfloor heating.SMET LiteFlo® Lightweight Flowing Screed used on the first floor of the timber frame house is ideal where loading is an issue. SMET LiteFlo® Lightweight Flowing Screed is a high-quality, innovative, pumpable factory-produced, CE marked, self-levelling screed based on calcium sulphate.German-made LiteFlo® is unique, in that it’s the first pumpable lightweight flowing screed. Made from specially selected aggregates, makes it 30% lighter than conventional flowing screeds and therefore 70% lighter than traditional sand & cement – ultimately this means less is required per m2. LiteFlo® complies with EN 13813: 2002, is CE-marked, and is available in 27Kg bags or bulk silos.TDS SMET LiteFlo® Lightweight Flowing ScreedAftercare SMET LiteFlo® Lightweight Flowing ScreedSMET Floor Screeds and Compounds Product SelectorHave a look at the Northern Builder MagazineTop 5 Liquid Screeds Article.  Read about SMET LiteFlo® in the Irish Construction News.SMET delivers another innovative, showcase flooring solution to their Smet Supported Partners.

TDS SMET LiteFlo® Lightweight Flowing Screed Aftercare SMET LiteFlo® Lightweight Flowing ScreedEPD – LiteFlo® Lightweight Flowing ScreedWe supplied our Smet Supported partner, Floor Screed Ireland with SMET LiteFlo® Lightweight Flowing Screed for the Our Lady of Hope special school in Crumlin. The job was completed by Floor Screed Ireland on behalf of Vision Contracting for the Dept of Education. This lightweight screed is ideal for renovation projects where loading may be an issue. This is a high-quality pumpable, factory-produced, CE marked, self-levelling screed based on calcium sulphate. German-made SMET LiteFlo® is unique because it’s the first pumpable lightweight flowing screed available. Made from specially selected aggregates - means it’s 30% lighter than conventional flowing screeds and can be laid in reduced thicknesses. The screed offers a high yield, 43kg per m2 @ 40mm.Innovative SMET LiteFlo® is absolutely ideal for application in high-rise buildings, over timber-suspended floors, timber-frame houses, and in new builds and renovations.LiteFlo® complies with EN 13813: 2002, is CE-marked, and is available in 27Kg bags or bulk silos.Have a look at the Northern Builder MagazineTop 5 Liquid Screeds Article.  Read about SMET LiteFlo® in the Irish Construction News.Check out SMET lightweight screed, lightweight flooring systems, and aggregates (void fillers) suitable for any building project. We demonstrate best practice in construction partnerships - providing a superior level of customer service to our Smet Supported Partners during the installation process.Whether your job is – self-build, retro-fit, floor renovation or repair, design floor, commercial or shop, sustainable build, historical renovation, ECO build, Lightweight, or an industrial flooring venture – SMET has a flooring compound or ready to use product suitable for your application.

The initial phase of a large-scale regeneration project featuring community sports facilities, office accommodation and an Enterprise Hub in Irvine, North Ayrshire, has been constructed with the use of 50,000 Carsington Cream bricks produced by Forterra in Measham exclusively for Taylor Maxwell. The construction on Quarry Road, Irvine, houses the office headquarters of a local leisure company and work spaces for Business Gateway, who aim to support local entrepreneurs and business start-ups, encouraging local employment. It provides a gateway into the development that will include local indoor and outdoor sports facilities and multi-use community spaces. The building was designed to mark the development entrance, draw people into the site and set the construction standard for the phases to follow. Andrew Martin, Sales Executive at Taylor Maxwell, said: “We were tasked with finding a suitable facing brick for Irvine Community Hub. With a budget to adhere to and a remit to provide a buff/cream coloured brick with a traditional appearance, the Carsington Cream Facing Brick was ideal. “This brick type is part of a commitment to certain product lines manufactured in the UK and mainland Europe that Taylor Maxwell makes to provide a ‘Select’ range of brick types. This provided Clark Contracts with a commitment on price and availability for a soft mud manufactured brick with the technical qualities needed for the Scottish climate.” Steven Nicolson, Forterra’s Area Sales Manager for Scotland, said: “The Carsington Cream brick is a handmade, low water absorbency brick that was used here to combine with the modern aspect of the building and to complement the surrounding buildings.” Nick Shepherd, Architectural Assistant at Anderson Bell + Christie, said: “Forterra and Taylor Maxwell’s Carsington Cream brick was used to contrast with the residential context and establish the building as a landmark. The tone of the brick was selected to harmonise with the timber cladding, as well as the timber louvres within the window openings which accentuate the texture of the brick.” Forterra nominated the project for the 2018 Brick Awards, in the Public category. 

Artform Urban and the Bailey Street Furniture Group continue their ongoing partnership with contractors Renaker who have, over recent years, single-handedly transformed the Manchester City Centre Skyline. Following their collaboration with furnishing the roof terraces at the now-iconic Deansgate Square and Crown Street buildings, Artform has provided an array of high-quality external furniture for the Canalside terrace at Castle Wharf.Castle Wharf is the epitome of boutique waterside living.Castle Wharf is a modern and contemporary development of 188 apartments and penthouses in the heart of the Castlefield Conservations in Manchester's city center.The Building is designed by OMI Architects and reflects the area’s industrial heritage. Inside features high-end amenities; a gymnasium, spa, and lounge spaces.The exterior terrace has been designed by TPM Landscape and features sandstone to mimic the sandstone outcrops that are visible in the Castlefield Basin. To coordinate with this distinct colour pallet and style, Artform has provided a package of complementary street furniture elements. Large aged oak beams mounted on steel frames, as well as inset into the sandstone planter walls, create a plethora of seating options for dining and socialising. Bar stools, benches, and tables - as seen at Deansgate Square and Crown Street have been selected here. The range combines a minimal aluminium frame and hardwood clad toppers to create durable, stylish and lightweight products that offer ease of manoeuvrability and longevity.Finally, the popular Spencer litter bin clad in premium quality hardwood timbers have been placed around the terrace as well as the entrance to the building. The Spencer litter bin is a versatile design available in a variety of materials sizes and shapes - here the quality timbers harmonise alongside the sandstone. The Spencer bin has been used on all 3 projects that Artform has completed to date with Renaker.Artform’s world-leading products combined with their knowledge and experience within this sector has resulted in a unique and inviting outdoor social space for residents and guests.

The BriefMorgan Sindall were tendering for an £18.8 million refurbishment of Lexden Springs School in Colchester, Essex which cares for children with special educational needs. The refurbishment included relocating the school to a new site with a brand-new building which would enable the school to create an additional x80 places, almost doubling the number of pupils they can support and offering an additional x30 boarding places for pupils.The Senior Quantity Surveyor from Morgan Sindall first contacted Able Canopies in December 2017 with the canopy designs that were produced by Curl La Tourelle Head Architecture. He asked us to submit our proposals for the canopy structures which included a number of free-standing canopies spread around various locations within the new school grounds.The SolutionAfter various conversations between Able Canopies and Morgan Sindall, plus a change in the original canopy requirements to ensure the very best solutions were found, we were able to cultivate a number of designs that suited the requirements of Morgan Sindall, the architect and the school staff.To achieve this, we utilised the Coniston Wall Mounted Canopy to its full potential for many of the designs by incorporating rear posts, transforming it into a free-standing canopy and fixing two canopies back to back to create an apex roof design and a much bigger span. Not only did this ensure all canopies had similarities to create a uniform yet contrasting appearance, it also meant we could keep costs down and all the requirements from the architect were met.We installed a total of five canopies that feature timber end panels. The panels we use on our canopies are often clear polycarbonate however, it was an important requirement that the outside area featured a range of colours and textures to enhance the sensory experience for the children whilst playing. We are also able to source splinter proof timber to make it a much safer environment for them.

Project: Kingsgate Primary SchoolProduct: Shiluvit by Oranit in White Washed Nordic PineArchitect: Maccreanor LavingtonInstaller: Lacunar LtdKingsgate Primary School, London (2018) Photos by Michael Whitestone PhotographySpecification:
Shiluvit 7-501White Washed Nordic Pine
20 x 45mm Blades with 40mm Gaps
Quantity:
1300m2LSA Projects Ltd are delighted to share with you a new award winning Oranit installation at Kingsgate Primary School in London.The £18 million, 5000m2 school has created over 420 new primary school places at the purpose built facility which is comprised of two connected two storey teaching blocks with generous picture windows throughout for an abundance of natural light.The site also has ample external space including running tracks, a science garden, and covered playing spaces in addition to being part of a community development project linking the site to a neighbouring park developed from unused green space in the area.The saw-toothed roof and external appearance of school was designed to reflect its industrial past and the cool tone light brickwork and generous windows bring the design up-to-date with current trends and the requirements of a modern building.Inside the school there is a consistent airy and neutral palette with white walls and ceiling interspersed with pale wood feature walls and stairways in addition to the white washed Nordic Pine Shiluvit panels.Oranit Shiluvit panels were chosen in part for the ceilings of the spaces due to their impressive acoustic power; the configuration chosen which included LSA Black High Density Acoustic mineral wool achieves an overall rating of Class A for acoustic absorption making it perfect for ensuring minimal reverberation across the spaces helping to keep a calm atmosphere.Nordic Pine timber was chosen for its depth of texture as well as its PEFC Certification, the timber was then white washed for a clean and bright appearance.

Proteus Waterproofing were contacted to assist with the roof refurbishment for the The Co-Operative Group, Wembley. The existing felt waterproofing and timber deck had failed allowing water ingress into the residential building below. Upon further inspection, Proteus established that the existing roof lacked any insulation and therefore did not meet current Building Regulations. a Proteus Pro Felt® system was specified as a competitive and cost effective waterproofing solution.High Performance WaterproofingThe roof coverings and timber decking had to be removed. A new 18mm ply wood deck was installed to the roof pitches before a high performance Proteus Pro Felt® system could be laid. This incorporated 120mm Proteus Pro-Therm® insulation to ensure all current building regulations were met. Due to the 45 degree pitch of both the front and rear roofs, Proteus needed to design a fixing method to ensure the felt and insulation did not slip in the warmer weather. Proteus Waterproofing worked closely with the Proteus Approved Contractor, to ensure the project was delivered to a high standard.Health & SafetyWhen working on public buildings, safety is always of utmost importance. Proteus Pro-Felt® Self Adhesive Mineral Capsheet has the highest European Fire Rating, BROOF(t4), making it the ideal felt to use on public building as the risks to operatives and members of the public are greatly reduced. All Proteus Waterproofing specifications promote fire safe installation methods conforming to the industry lead Safe2Torch guidelines.Long Term PerformanceProteus Pro-Felt® is a High-Performance range of bituminous membrane system, tested to perform in extreme temperatures and weather conditions. It has class leading modified bitumen content which allows the flexible membrane to move with the building and ensure long term durability and performance with guarantees available up to 25 years.

Happy campers can now make the most of the great outdoors in style.Gripsure has supplied the camping and glamping site Herding Hill Farm in Northumberland with non-slip decking to complete the popular site’s ‘Wigwam glamping Pods’ and outdoor hot tub areas. Around 105 of our Gripsure Classic style three-metre boards have been used to create stunning slip-resistant outdoor spaces for visitors to enjoy.5-star Herding Hill Farm, located just a stone’s throw from the world-famous Hadrian’s Wall, has 17 warm and cosy wooden Wigwam cabins (glamping pods), designed for guests who like a little more luxury when it comes to sleeping under the stars. Gripsure decking has provided the perfect solution to creating all-weather, low-maintenance, non-slip outdoor spaces which perfectly complement the timber-built glamping pods. Our sustainable, FSC and PEFC-approved decking has also been used around the site’s eight, luxurious outdoor hot tubs.Site Manager Phil Humphreys, a former carpenter, says he’s really pleased with the look and the quality of Gripsure's decking. “We’re a campsite open all year round and in the winter, the weather can be treacherous,” said Phil, who has been working at Herding Hill Farm since 2018. “One of the first jobs I wanted to do was to rebuild the steps to the pods and the designated hot tub areas both to improve guest access and also their visual appearance. I did not believe that composite decking was the right solution. All of the glamping pods are made from timber and I felt like plastic decking just wouldn’t tie-in well. I’d heard about Gripsure’s non-slip timber decking and thought it would be ideal.”Hundreds of people, including walkers, families and their dogs visit the pet-friendly campsite Herding Hill in Haltwhistle, Northumberland every year, drawn to the site’s incredible wide, open spaces and breathtaking location close to Hadrian’s Wall. Luxury 5-star amenities, including a shower and toilet block with under-floor heating, baths and a sauna, meaning Herding Hill is a favourite with a range of campers and glampers. These range from just-pitch-and-go tenters, caravanners and motorhomers to glampers who are looking for the perfect getaway with at least some of the comforts of home.Herding Hill is also known as a Dark Skies campsite with spectacular Northumberland stargazing on offer in this area, famous for its night-time views. Having the right outdoor spaces to accommodate such a range of people in such a range of seasons and circumstances was vital.“The Gripsure decking is working really well,” said Phil, who runs the 10-year-old site with his wife, Sue. “We’re so pleased with it”. Phil also wanted to thank the staff at Gripsure for being so helpful and efficient at organising and then delivering the decking on time – despite being based more than 400 miles away in Cornwall. “I can’t fault Gripsure,” said Phil. “I would absolutely recommend them.”

Rosa Alpina is a boutique Alpine hotel that boasts a two Michelin-starred restaurant and a scenic setting in the Dolomites – one of the world’s most beautiful places.The original building dates to 1850 and local antiques, wood carvings and old photographs complement its wood-panelled ceilings and thick, frescoed walls. Fresh flowers and roaring fires complete a convivial vibe.The 51 spacious rooms and suites each feature a seating area and subtle cream and grey colour scheme. Newer guestrooms offer more contemporary design, with glass-encased fires and sleek timber furnishings, yet still respect local traditions with wood-panelled ceilings, fire wood baskets and ceramic stoves. The new Vetralla bath has specified within these new contemporary rooms.Photography: © Six SensesPhotography: © Six Senses

What used to be the site of the Cannon Brewery, dating back to the 1670s, and the home of London’s largest brewery, is now a modular arrangement of 198 apartments with a selection of one, two and three bedroom flats and five town houses built around a landscaped courtyard. The project was designed by architects Hamilton Associates and completed in 2022.Literally a stone’s throw from our Studio in Clerkenwell, London, this was a remediation project, where the existing timber was removed and replaced with our BalcaSmart Aluminium system, in order to make sure the building complied with new fire regulations. The rear of the building also features our TerraSmart Pedestal system.Our aluminium decking system is non-combustible, achieves Euroclass A2-s1,d0 to EN 13501-1:2018, is ideal for all steel, bolt-on and cantilever balconies, and most importantly ensures the safety of all residents. This is what futureproofing is all about.

Soundis supplied 3,265m2 of a shallow floating floor treatment, laid over an existing concrete structural deck, at Channelsea House in Stratford for City Square.The areas included the Ground, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th Floors. Channelsea House is a former office block being converted to residential apartments, with a one bedroom flat being valued at the half a million pound mark. Located in Stratford, 1.3 miles away from the Olympic Stadium, Channelsea House is in a prime location for high quality accommodation.Soundis were required to provide a high specification shallow acoustic solution to achieve compliance with ‘Impact’ performance criteria when tested on site. The specification implemented by the Architect was 26mm Timber Floor Overlay Board, which was chosen to minimise construction height and to comply with Approved Document E Building Regulations.

The Sash Window Workshop were contacted by a couple who were looking to undertake a large project to transform a property in Gloucestershire into an elegant family home.The new wooden windows and doors had to deliver elegance and the traditional look and appearance that the customer wanted from both the inside and outside. They also needed to meet modern window performance standards, with double glazed windows and doors.They arranged to visit the workshop to have a look at how the windows and doors are manufactured and were delighted with the quality, thought and workmanship that goes into all the windows and doors they manufacture. The customer therefore decided to place an order for all the new timber windows and doors.After the work was completed, they commented that they are so pleased and happy with the end result. The customer also noted that the sash windows and doors were instrumental in the transformation of the building into a beautiful family home.

Dundee College Gardyne CampusArchitect: Archial NORRInstaller: GHI ContractsProduct: Gustafs Panel System500m2 of Gustafs Panel System in Gemini Walnut veneer were installed to the feature wrap-over wall and ceiling at the multi-million-pound makeover of the Gardyne Campus at Dundee College.SH8 acoustic perforations were used on small section of the panels in the main atrium. Slotted perforations give the illusion of a grille whilst providing class C acoustic absorption above the college walkways.Gemini Walnut veneer was chosen for the space to achieve a greater consistency in colour, tone, and texture, across the space. Gemini veneers from Gustafs are natural veneer that is stained to match a chosen timber species; doing this achieves a consistent colour across the panels as well as making them less photosensitive and less susceptible to natural colour variation over time.

Built in the market town of Sandy, Bedfordshire, Cotton Tails is a prestigious £2.5 million private residential property, the finalist for the RCI Pitched Roofing Awards. The property extends for around 4.8 acres and it includes formal gardens, fenced paddocks, stables, and outbuildings. The incredibly modern five-bedroom mansion offers 6000sq ft of living space characterized by a wealth of attractive features, including an impressive full height reception hall with a floating staircase and enviable underground wine cellar.The Cotton Trails project was managed by Mark Lenn, the landowner, and built by Bartram Timber Frame Buildings Ltd. For the installation of the roof, the landowner selected D Stockwell Roofing Contractor, based upon recommendations, experience, and quality of workmanship. Roofers were instructed to only use high-quality materials to complement the luxurious mansion and interiors of the prestigious property.

When Financial IT Consultancy firm PHI Partners took possession of two run-down offices in Barnet, Hertfordshire, they tasked Interior Property Solutions (IPS) with combining the units to create a luxurious, bright and inviting executive workspace and 'Engine Room’ sales office fit for a cutting edge business.IPS wanted to create a bold impact with their door designs and choose floor to ceiling wood veneer doors, door frames and timber-framed partitions from Forza Doors.To create a unified consent look throughout the suites crown cut Black American Walnut veneer was selected for its close match to the grain of the table and AV unit in the executive meeting room. To ensure the veneers matched, Forza was sent a sample of the desk veneer and personally selected the veneer to match. We also used the same veneer on the doorframes and the Forza Imola partitions for continuity of colour and grain.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan welcomes over 290,000 visitors each year to explore its 200 acres of rediscovered gardens. Heligan came to Gripsure for a non-slip solution for the Jungle, where decked walkways lead visitors through immersive tropical plants and giant ferns. The Jungle is in a sheltered, deep valley. It is very steep in places, so when it rains, it’s essential visitors are kept safe. We recommended Gripsure Classic, a smooth board featuring three non-slip inserts. We chose this decking because it has the highest safety rating on the market, making it the right choice for this project. Heligan staff welcomed the innovative solution to replace sections of timber covered in chicken-wire. "A quality product at a competitive price as well as a friendly and professional service, where nothing was too much trouble"- Heligan Gardening Team.

TRC been appointed by Milestone Contracting to survey, remove, manufacture, install and replace over 200 spring balance sash windows at Lorraine road in London.Engineered to a high standard, spring sash windows exude quality and style.Modern spring sash windows operate in a smooth and seamless manner. By replacing the original cord with a spring-loaded mechanism, the windows are much easier to slim down. This enables sections of the frame to need less room for housing the extra reveal space (where the heavy weights and pulleys were once placed). This modern solution has become ideal for housing slimline window cavities.The windows installed had to comply with the following spec requirements:Windows to meet PAS24 enhanced security levelThe whole window U value to meet 1.4 w/m²K.FSC certified Hardwood timber.

Park Community Primary School provides infant and primary education for over 250 children from the age of 3 to 11 years. Whilst in the process of building a new annexe at the school's site in Wrexham, the school identified a need for a number of canopies at various areas around the exterior of the building to provide shade and shelter for the pupils and staff.These new canopies would provide a covered outside area that could be enjoyed all year round, whatever the weather. However, in order to provide effective cover when moving from inside the building to under the canopy. Furthermore, the school was not keen on the aesthetics of a metal framed structure and so required an alternative material to be used for the framework.As the school did not want a metal structure installed, Able Canopies recommended their new range of Tarnhow Canopies which are constructed from Glulam timber.

Architect: Archial NORRInstaller: GHI ContractsProduct: Gustafs Panel System500m2 of Gustafs Panel System in Gemini Walnut veneer were installed to the feature wrap-over wall and ceiling at the multi-million-pound makeover of the Gardyne Campus at Dundee College.SH8 acoustic perforations were used on small section of the panels in the main atrium. Slotted perforations give the illusion of a grille whilst providing class C acoustic absorption above the college walkways.Gemini Walnut veneer was chosen for the space to achieve a greater consistency in colour, tone, and texture, across the space. Gemini veneers from Gustafs are natural veneer that is stained to match a chosen timber species; doing this achieves a consistent colour across the panels as well as making them less photosensitive and less susceptible to natural colour variation over time.

Radii joined the fit-out for this asset management company’s new European headquarters in mid-2022, working for approximately 20 weeks to deliver our high-end commercial solutions for 179 offices and meeting spaces across Levels 1 to 4 of the 88,000 sq ft site.Curved double glazed Parallel 50 (45dB Rw) partitions were manufactured and installed by Radii for a number of meeting rooms fronts, while single glazed Linear 25 (41 dB Rw) and double glazed Parallel 100 (50dB Rw) were also deployed to match the variety of acoustic requirements. Mesh glass was used in places on Levels 2 to 4 to provide extra privacy around reception and lounge areas respectively.Partitions were complemented with smoked dark European oak timber veneered doors throughout the space.

A Fusion of Tradition and InnovationIn Belper, Derbyshire, Quarry Cottage, a beacon of history, embraced modernity with Gowercroft's Heritage Windows and vacuum glazing. Sylvia's pursuit of timeless design led to a harmonious blend of traditional aesthetics and cutting-edge efficiency.Perfect Upgrade: Heritage Windows with Vacuum GlazingWith no strict heritage mandate, Sylvia chose Gowercroft's Heritage Windows for their seamless fit with Quarry Cottage's charm. Nestled amid the Peak District, Belper's historic legacy found an ideal complement in the cottage's traditional stone façade.Richmond Casement Heritage Window: A Modern ClassicSylvia opted for the Richmond Casement Heritage Window—a marriage of classic styling and modern efficiency. The vacuum double glazing provided the appearance of traditional single-glazed windows while leveraging the benefits of vacuum cavity double glazing.LandVac Heritage Glazing Units: Efficiency RedefinedAt the heart of Quarry Cottage's upgraded windows is the vacuum glazing. Elevating efficiency, this ultra-slim 8.2mm glazing unit boasts an industry-leading centre pane thermal efficiency of 0.4 W/m²K. Mimicking traditional single-glazing, it adds both aesthetic authenticity and longevity to the heritage upgrade.Accoya Timber: Low Maintenance, High PerformanceCrafted with Accoya timber, Gowercroft’s Heritage Windows and Doors boast unparalleled stability and strength. The unique treatment process minimises expansion and contraction, ensuring resilience against temperature changes and water ingress. Meticulous finishing extends their lifespan, offering a harmonious blend of low maintenance and high performance.Weather Resistance and Assurance: 10-Year GuaranteeGowercroft's commitment to quality is evident in rigorous weather resistance testing under the BS6375 standard. Accoya, sourced sustainably, aligns with responsible practices. Each Heritage Window and Door comes with a 10-year guarantee, while TimbaCare cover offers homeowners peace of mind, ensuring minimal maintenance for enduring perfection.In Quarry Cottage, tradition intertwines with innovation, creating an everlasting allure that seamlessly integrates into Belper's architectural legacy. Explore the synergy of tradition and efficiency with Vacuum Glazing — a choice standing the test of time.

The ChallengeUntil recently, the Abbey Wood station in the London Borough of Bexley was a small Network Rail station serving the North Kent Line.A project to redevelop it would see it become symbolic not only for its regeneration effect on this part of London, but also as marking the geographical start of Crossrail, the most ambitious and advanced railway network in Europe.The SolutionThe new station, designed by Fereday Pollard Architects, would serve four new lines, including the new Elizabeth Line and South Eastern Rail Services. Ancillary design works include the implementation of an extensive urban realm strategy with Urban Movement, foot bridges and other structures along the 2km project.The design and vision for the station was successfully maintained through all the GRIP stages of this multidisciplinary project.Forterra’s Cradley Linear Bricks in a bespoke colour and size – 30,000 units over 22 different special types – were incorporated into the design. The warm tone of theses 50 x 300mm radial units complement the extensive use of exposed wood for the building’s interior and exterior.Neil McLafferty, Sales Manager for Forterra, said, “The bricks were based on the classic ‘smooth blue’ brick design for their distinctive colouring and size, but were also radial in shape.“This unique finish to the bricks, giving them each a slight camber, resulted in a slight curvature to the completed building, so that it resembled an amphitheatre. The blue bricks are also extremely compact and dense, ensuring they are robust and durable compared to standard bricks.”The BenefitsThe station design has created a new and vibrant architectural focus for Abbey Wood, and a greatly enhanced experience for those using the station.John Attwood, Architect at Fereday Pollard, said, “We opted for linear bricks as they emphasise the horizontal, for what is quite a high building in a residential area, making it more attractive. Using bespoke bricks brings the benefit of a more hard-wearing, robust material for this public building.“The slightly curved, cambered bricks were used specifically to interface with the timber used throughout the construction, while the blue brindle brick colouring also created a pleasing contrast with the timber.”