"vapour control layer"

A natural ventilation system from SE Controls Africa is helping create a cooler and improved learning environment for pupils and staff at independent Heron Bridge College co-educational school in Northern Johannesburg.

Cranbrook Primary SchoolBauder Total Roof System (BTRS) with Tapered insulation schemeSynopsisCranbrook Primary School in Ilford, London, was experiencing some major water ingress due to the advanced deterioration of the existing roof system. A roof survey was conducted by Stuart Parratt, Bauder area technical manager, where core test samples were taken to identify the existing roof construction to deck level and to provide an indication of the roof condition. The survey revealed that the existing waterproofing was in extremely poor condition, with extensive evidence of water ingress.  Bauder Building BoardProject:Cranbrook Primary School Location:LondonProject Type:RefurbishmentRoof Area:440m² Client:London Borough of Redbridge Council Approved Contractor:Thameside Roofing Ltd The specificationThe original waterproofing had been poorly overlaid with EPDM which had subsequently debonded. Before the installers could begin laying the new system, they had to strip the substrate back to the original asphalt. The client required a robust system that would deliver durability, value and longevity. 390m² of bitumen waterproofing, Bauder Total Roof System (BTRS), was specified for the main roof areas and 50m² of our cold applied liquid waterproofing, LiquiTEC, for an area that had limited upstands due to clerestory windows that could not be repositioned. Products appliedBauderPIR tapered insulation  A lightweight and cost effective alternative method of providing falls to a roof, whilst also providing thermal insulation. The client opted for this scheme at Cranbrook to minimise standing water on the roof. Bauder Total Roof SystemA two-layer bituminous waterproofing system robust enough to withstand foot traffic and most permanently sited plant. For use within warm and cold roof scenarios, as well as overlaying existing roofing materials. BTRS meets current UK Building Regulations Part B for external fire protection and features torch-free and safe to torch installation on combustible details. LiquiTEC Cold Applied liquid waterproofing Utilising Bauder’s PMMA cold applied liquid waterproofing on one of the roof areas ensured a fully watertight solution around rooflights and below upstands that could not be raised.  Project challengesAlthough the deck appeared to be in a reasonable condition for reuse as part of the refurbishment, there were large deflections to some areas and the existing waterproofing that overlaid the original system had been poorly installed and had pulled away from the asphalt below and so needed stripping prior to works commencing. The existing insulation was inadequate and left the building falling short of the current requirements. A thermal upgrade was incorporated into the works using a tapered insulation scheme which helped to solve the deflection issues by creating falls on the roof. To meet the minimum upstand requirements, the existing extractor vents needed to be removed to allow for the increase in the kerb height. Large continuous structural rooflights providing natural light to the building below were deemed thermally inefficient. The rooflights were upgraded during the refurbishment to meet current standards.  The resultBauder systems are only installed by Bauder approved contractors to ensure quality. The installation on this project was expertly carried out by Thameside Roofing Ltd, overseen by Dave Gregory and John White. After sign-off from Bauder site technician, Paul Osbourne, this system was awarded a comprehensive guarantee.  Systems installedBauder Total Roof System (BTRS) with Tapered insulation1 Bauder K5KHeavy duty, torch-applied SBS elastomeric bitumen capping sheet featuring a spunbond polyester reinforcement to allow the finished product to cope with structural movement without fracture, and a mineral finish to provide protection against UV degradation.2 BauderTEC KSA DUO Technically advanced self-adhesive SBS elastomeric bitumen underlayer with “DUO” lap technology to ensure thorough sealing of lap joints, even in lower temperatures. 3 BauderPIR FA G16Tapered PIR Insulation board manufactured in accordance with BS EN 13165 with no facings. It is lightweight with a high compressive strength and has zero Ozone depletion potential. The product provided effective drainage as well as efficient thermal insulation.4 BauderTEC KSD FBSA technically advanced, self-adhesive SBS elastomeric bitumen air & vapour control layer, with a mica finish on the upper surface to allow easy bonding of insulation using the specified Bauder Insulation Adhesive.

SE Controls smoke ventilation products have been used at two new prestige, sports and SUV car dealerships in Tokai, Cape Town.

A combined smoke and natural ventilation system from SE Controls Africa is helping create a comfortable and safe environment for visitors at the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa.

ChallengeFor the air traffic controllers at Birmingham Airport, concentration is critical to ensuring the safety of the hundreds of passenger jets that take off and land every day. Studies show office workers lose concentration when noise levels hit 55dB; however, the sound of just one medium-sized aircraft descending at 1,000ft is 70dB.SolutionWith this in mind, noise reduction was an essential factor in the specification of the insulation for the 105ft air traffic control tower. The airport’s developers consulted Knauf Insulation’s Technical Support Team for advice. The Technical Support Team recommended Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab, a non-combustible Rock Mineral Wool insulation designed for use in high-rise rainscreen façade systems.Mineral Wool insulation has superior acoustic performance because of its open structure, which traps sound between the individual strands and turns it into heat energy.Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab is quick and easy to install and adapts to minor imperfections in the substrate. Slabs are flexible and knit together eliminating air gaps for maximum acoustic and thermal performance, making it perfect for use on the curved walls of the funnel shaped control tower. The same level of acoustic performance could not have been achieved with rigid foam boards, which have closed cell structures that offer virtually no sound absorption. Rigid foam boards are also more prone to air gaps, reducing acoustic performance further.As well as excellent acoustic and thermal performance, Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab is non-combustible with Euroclass A1 reaction to fire classification. This means it will not contribute to the spread or development of fire should it occur.Another factor in the specification of Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab was sustainability. It is manufactured with ECOSE® Technology, Knauf Insulation’s unique bio-based binder, which contains no added formaldehyde or phenol. It is made from natural raw materials that are rapidly renewable, and is 70% less energy-intensive to manufacture than traditional binder, so it is more environmentally friendly. Products made with ECOSE® Technology generate low levels of dust and VOCs, and have been awarded the Eurofins Gold Certificate for Indoor Air Comfort.Thanks to Rocksilk® RainScreen Slab the air traffic controllers at Birmingham Airport can enjoy a quieter, warmer, safer and more sustainable workplace."Acoustic protection, energy performance, fire safety and sustainability were all crucial factors taken into account during the design of the air traffic control tower and so all materials specified with the project needed to meet these multiple requirements. We are extremely pleased with the building."Will Heynes, Birmingham Airport’s Development Director

SE Controls helps provide a safe and comfortable environment at a leading Cape Town hospital.

Gloucester Transport Hub Bauder Thermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system SynopsisThe replacement bus station and regeneration of the surrounding area has created a unique and distinctive city centre building for the town. The design connects with Gloucester’s Roman heritage and association with aviation. The innovative roof design incorporated a canopy intended to reflect an aircraft wing that required a lightweight waterproofing and renewable energy photovoltaic (PV) solution.Bauder Building BoardProject:Gloucester Bus StationLocation:GloucesterProject Type:RefurbishmentRoof Size:1520m²Constructor: Kier Group PlcApproved Contractor:Kovara Projects LtdThe specificationThe Bauder Thermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system with the BauderSOLAR F PV solution met the brief precisely without compromising the aesthetics of the roof. This combination of Thermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system and BauderSOLAR F PV delivered a high quality, strong, energy efficient flat roof.This system was selected for the project because of its lightweight properties which complemented the deck and roof design. Light grey was chosen to reflect the colour of the cladding as the aesthetics was a key objective for the client.The OMG Rhinobond induction welding system was specified as the installation method which provided multiple advantages to the project, not only saving time and fasteners, but also optimising the field fix pattern of installation and ensuring that the load on the roof was spread between the induction welding plates. Products appliedBauder Thermofol U15 FR MembraneA high grade virgin polymer Thermofol PVC membrane ensures the optimum membrane characteristics to deliver high performance and a BBA stated life expectancy in excess of 35 years.BauderSOLAR F An aerodynamically optimised system for flat roofs using framed modules and mounting units, securing them to the roof using membrane-to-membrane welding techniques. This installation method means that the roof is not compromised by penetrations of fasteners or is it ballasted.Project challengesThe design of the Transport Hub and city centre location proved to be the key challenge to this project. The unusual roof configuration required a bespoke insulation scheme using BauderPIR M, an efficient rebated PIR insulation board, in order to achieve the required U-value of 0.18W/M²K.The deck configuration equally made the installation of the Bauder Thermofol PVC waterproofing system complex with the perimeter zone having to be carefully marked in compatability the wind calculation which included measuring factors such as wind speed, altitude, direction and exposure. Bauder and Kovara Projects were required to work closely together to ensure all criteria of the wind calculations were met. 40 modules of the lightweight BauderSOLAR PV solution were installed on the west side of the Transport Hub’s roof.The location of the project, Gloucester city centre, presented logistical challenges. Delivery of the roofing products had to be carefully scheduled and managed to avoid creating congestion in the area.The resultThe installation required constant co-operation and communication to embrace the live site operations within the restricted city centre location whilst allowing the bus station to remain fully functional. The roofing contractor delivered a superior standard solution and any complex issues that arose during the project were resolved promptly and collaboratively.System installedBauderThermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system  1 Bauder THERMOFOL U15 FR1.5mm polyvinyl chloride membrane (PVC) reinforced with a pre-coated polyester cross-weaved matting for mechanically fixed installations. 2 BauderPIR MThis efficient tissue-faced flatboard insulation has been specially developed for use within Bauder single ply systems. 3 BauderSYN DB-PE 100A blue, polyethylene air and vapour control layer. The product is installed by loose laying and suitable for Thermofol mechanically fastened and ballasted single ply systems.

Museum of London - Visionary RoofSynopsisThe Museum of London opened in 1976 on the historic London Wall and is a few minutes’ walk from St Paul’s Cathedral. A visionary approach to roofing had been adopted on a building that, will not only green as much of the exposed roofs as possible, but also provide a strong research aspect for future green roof projects. As with many buildings, the original roofs needed to be upgraded or replaced, at the same time as being brought up to date using environmental and sustainable solutions.Through the recommendation of waterproofing and green roof manufacturer Bauder Ltd, the Museum invited Dusty Gedge, one of the UK’s leading independent green roof consultants, to work directly with them to design 3500m² of varying habitats that encompassed the museum’s sustainable vision. and help in the provision of environments that would attract a range of wildlife, as well as being able to help the city adapt to climate change.Bauder Building BoardProject:Visionary roof, Muesum of LondonLocation:LondonProject type:RefurbishmentRoof size:9512m²Specifier:Museum of LondonRoofing contractor:Russell Trew LtdThe specificationAn independent consultant had previously carried out an energy model on the Museum of London buildings. When the museum inputted the green roof specification, it showed a potential energy saving of 10% per year, as well as a reduction on the future replacement costs of the heating and cooling plant. Some of the green roofs were funded through Drain London, a partnership project led by the Greater London Authority and funded by Defra. The project aims to better understand surface water flood risk across London, with a view to promote interventions (such as green roofs) to reduce surface water flooding. The museum has used the Bauder green roof system and worked closely with Dan Costen of Bauder and the roofing contractor Russell Trew Ltd, to deliver the various green roof spaces.These include:The refurbishment of the lower garden in the central courtyard with hard landscapingThe installation of Bauder’s new wildflower blanket to the upper garden in the central courtyard (funded through Drain London)Plug planting the roofs of the recently completed garden and terrace rooms that provide high quality corporate hire (matching the colour scheme chosen for the rotunda garden refurbishment and integrated with the new rainwater harvesting system funded by Renaissance London)An integrated sustainable urban drainage system (SuDS)Plug planting in other individual small roof areas including outside the boardroom and committee roomsTwo different planting schemes on an area of the main museum roof where the Drain London Project aims to carry out water attenuation researchThe resultRetrofitting green roofs will help to realise the Mayor of London’s ambition, to increase green cover in central London by 5% by 2030. The Museum of London is one of the largest retrofit green roof projects in the City and is certainly to be commended for allowing its roofs to be used for research purposes. Not only will it provide a benchmark for best practice, but it also demonstrates that retrofitting green roofs onto existing buildings is both environmentally and economically viable and is the way forward in helping London adapt to climate change.System installedBauderflex Green 1 BauderPLANT E 42A torch applied SBS elastomeric bitumen capping sheet. This product features chemically treated bitumen to deliver superior root resistance which has been tested and approved by the FLL2 BauderTEC Sprint DUOA self-adhesive elastomeric bitumen underlayer with DUO lap technology. This product has a glass fleece reinforcement feature for stability and strength.3 BauderPIR FA-TEFlatboard insulation boards containing rigid polyisocyanurate (PIR).4 BauderTEC KSD FBSA self-adhesive SBS elastomeric bitumen air & vapour control layer, with a mica finish.XF 301 Sedum System1 BauderGREEN XF 301Sedum vegetation blanket instantly providing at least 90% coverage on an extensive green roof. Integrated water retention and filter layer.2 BauderGREEN AL 4040mm high perforated edge/drainage trim frames and retains the Bauder XF 301 sedum system.3 BauderGREEN SDFMulti-functional drainage and filtration layer which prevents the roots of sedum plants from becoming waterlogged.4 BauderPLANT ETorch-on root-resistant capping sheet green.AdvocacyGavin McCourt MRICS, Project Manager for The Museum of London said:“In producing the business case for installing green roofs, reference was made to the extensive published documents on the benefits of green roofs. In this case as the museum building had already been energy modelled by outside consultants, it was decided to input the green roof specification into the model. The results showed a potential energy saving of 10% per year, as well as a reduction in future replacement costs for heating and cooling plant. These factors, combined with the longer life cycle replacement of green roofs compared with normal felt roofing systems, enabled me to produce a robust business case for green roofs. With increasing energy prices the economic benefits of installing green roofs can only become more viable”Dusty Gedge added:“One of the major issues that London faces is flash floods during the summer, when sudden rainfall levels overwhelm the current drainage network. With the support of Drain London we will be researching the rainwater run-off for different green roofs. This will help us validate the kind of roofs and depth of substrates that will negate the costly effects that the sudden rainfall has on the infrastructure of the City.”

Access Self Storage is one of the largest self storage companies in the UK with over 20 years experience and 50 stores nationwide. Access Self Storage Twickenham is situated on Rugby Road and serves the storage needs of Twickenham, Richmond upon Thames, West London and Surrey. The site offers 24 hour access, large vehicle access and customer parking; as such it is important that site has a secure perimeter with controlled gated access. Jacksons were specified to install Barbican Imperial® fencing and gates combined with EuroGuard® Regular Mesh in order to improve access control and perimeter security at the site.

The two access control systems from SIEGENIA for house and apartment entrance doors leave no desires unfulfilled: the keypad and the fingerprint scanner combine elegant design with maximum ease of use and efficient access management for the building. They are therefore an ideal solution for the increasing demand for smart home applications in private housing construction. The two systems are equipped with a comprehensive access log, simple, clear user administration as well as a rechargeable battery-buffered timer. The emphasis is on ease of use – e.g. with a simple touch of the finger on the fingerprint scanner or the standardised equipment with integrated WIFI and Bluetooth technology. This enables both the use of the smartphone as remote control as well as convenient control and administration with the aid of the SIEGENIA Comfort app. 

Barony CampusBauder Thermofol PVC single ply waterproofing system withBauderSOLAR FSynopsisBarony Campus is a new build project situated in Cumnock, Scotland. The campus will incorporate a range of primary schools, learning centres and academies within the area, and is the biggest capital project undertaken by East Ayrshire Council.Bauder Building BoardProject:Barony CampusLocation:Cumnock, ScotlandProject type:New buildRoof size:5,230m²Client:Sheppard RobsonMain contractor:Morrison ConstructionApproved contractors:EJ ParkerW.G. Walker & Co                             Q9 Cladding SolutionsThe specificationThe client required flat roof waterproofing as well as a sustainable energy source in the form of solar PV panels. Due to Part L regulations there was a requirement for a large PV array. Main contractors, Morrison Construction, bought into the risk-averse, zero-ballast, zero-penetration solution that the BauderSOLAR system offers. As Morrison Construction had not yet used this system, Bauder conducted a technical seminar to share the benefits of using BauderSOLAR in conjunction with a Bauder single ply membrane and to discuss the acoustic considerations for a building of this nature.The technical support and advantages of a single-source supplier resulted in a specification of a 176.80kWp BauderSOLAR PV system generating an estimated 157,800kWh per annum. The system proposed by Bauder ensured the solution was compliant in relation to the SAP calculations that had been carried out.Products appliedBauder THERMOFOL PVCThis single ply membrane is lightweight and has a high-grade virgin polymer formulation. The PVC formulation ensures it is resistant to chemicals and micro-organism attack making it well suited to receive a green roof.BauderPIR M 60This PIR insulation has aluminium foil facing on both sides and rebated edges to remove a thermal bridge. The matt black facing on both sides enables the board to be installed either way up. BauderSOLAR FThe lightweight, integrated system ensures that the integrity of the roof is upheld throughout the installation of the PV array. The panels are designed to create a 12º angle with modules delivering up to 455w per panel.Project challengesThe client had limited space for the storage of 544 solar panels and they could not be stored on the single ply roof. To overcome this, deliveries of the panels were coordinated with the roofing contractors finishing sections so that the panels could be raised, installed and welded as they arrived to site, mitigating the need for storage. Due to the reduced labour time of BauderSOLAR compared to ballasted systems, the site team managed to install the system quickly and efficiently, making back time lost due to weather delays and enabling the deadline to be met.The BauderSOLAR system is the lightest system on the market at 11.5kg/sqm. The system is also warrantied in combination with the roof membrane to ensure peace of mind is given to the client if any leaks or damage were to occur.System installedBauder Thermofol PVC single ply system1 Bauder THERMOFOL U15 FR1.5mm polyvinyl chloride membrane (PVC) reinforced with a pre-coated polyester cross-weaved matting for mechanically fixed installations. 2 BauderPIR M 60This efficient tissue-faced flatboard insulation has been specially developed for use within Bauder single ply systems. 3 BauderSYN DB-PE 100A blue, polyethylene air and vapour control layer. The product is installed by loose laying and suitable for Thermofol mechanically fastened and ballasted single ply systems.BauderSOLAR PV F SystemThis system provides a risk-free, zero penetration installation with a single source for integrated design of waterproofing and PV. Depending on the module selected, this system can weigh just 9-12.5kg/sqm, making it suitable for single ply applications. AdvocacyJordan from EJ Parker:“Our site team found the system very easy and quick to install. However, we found some challenges getting started due to the bad weather but once we finally began it was very straight-forward and fast to install. The technical help received from Chris and the team from design through to project completion was second to none.” 

The stakes are high in the food and beverage industry. Employees, reputation and the bottom line can be seriously affected by even minor incidents, if plans and systems for damage control are not in place. BROEN-LAB is a specialist in emergency shower systems for this sector. We help responsible companies all over the world prepare for the worst.

Atria natural smoke ventilation in accordance with EN 12101-2 for a mixed use premises. System design, product supply and partner installation of a natural smoke ventilation system including battery back up to ensure failsafe operation in the event of mains power failure.

Avantage MP AOVAvantage MP is a 1 and 2 hour fire resistant AOV smoke control damper suitable for multi compartment applications of smoke control such as lobby to smoke shaft ventilators.The product is based on a damper door design and has been tested and certified to BS EN12101-8 achieving 1 and 2 hour fire rating. This is particularly important so to maintain the fire integrity of any shaft.The Avantage AOV smoke control damper is noted for its superior airtight properties. The damper is available as a motorised version providing a practical solution for large buildings where fire safety equipment is regularly testedThe unit is completed with a decorative silver anodised aluminium grille on the front. It fixes into a fire compartment shaft wall and is direct fixed within the opening through the sides of the damper. Once the damper has been securely fixed to the structure any shaft side perimeter gaps must be caulked with intumescent sealing material.Recommended fixing details are available on request to suit an array of fire compartment walls together with safety, installation and maintenance instructions.The front face grille is fixed to the damper unit flange and has the option of being coloured black behind the grille for improved visual appearance. The grilles are attached with concealed fixings.Key featuresSuperior air tightness (tested at -1500 Pa)Minimal pressure dropImproved energy efficiency and acoustic insulationRemovable grille for easy maintenanceAuxiliary switches for remote damper position indicationEfficient robust decorative finishing grille with concealed fixingsThe wiring connection and the drive motor mechanism is accessed lobby side of the ventilator behind the decorative grilleEasy access for service and maintenanceWide range of sizes for optimal selection considering pressure drop and space available

The overriding narrative here is the link between the inside and outside, with a strong focus on plants and nature. Based on experience with other offices, we know that the best option is to fit the louvre blades horizontally on a south façade because the sun is high. The DucoSun Wing is perforated and thus assures perfect harmony between solar shading and shadow. The fin-shaped louvre blade has an urban design and can rotate with the sun which means the light entering can be controlled.

Acoustics in this spectacular courthouse is controlled using Rockfon Mono Acoustic.

Project to create temperature controlled enclosure in new warehouse using Flexiwall, plus enclosure created in Anchorwall mesh

Passive Purple used here on timber frame as a waterproof airtight liquid vapour control membrane

The “Sky” is the limit at Leeds Dock. Matt Grest from Sky stated that, “A workspace should be considered a productivity tool, not just a box to store your staff in, and this is exactly what we’ve got at Sky at Leeds Dock.” The architectural sun control DucoSun Ellips 200 mm, supplied by Contrasol, ensure the maximum amount of diffuse daylight. “The workspace is contributing to increased productivity across my teams.”

Located in the Selly Oak area of Birmingham near the university campus, the £12.5 million building was designed by Glancy Nicholls Architects and incorporates 267 bed spaces in five different room styles including cluster en-suite, studio apartments and even a penthouse, as well as a gym and communal lounge.

Atria natural smoke ventilation in accordance with EN12101-2 for a retail premises.

A Natural Ventilation system at the newly refurbished Metallurgy and Materials building at Birmingham University.

This Awkward Passivhaus design barrel roof made airtight with ease with Spray applied Airtight vapour control membrane Passive Purple

Heavy rainfall on the Orkney Islands meant that the basement room of Kirkwall Air Traffic Control Tower suffered from frequent flooding, with water levels reaching 1.2m at their highest point. Newton Waterproofing and Specialist Contractor Wise Basement Systems were called in to remove the existing water and then waterproof the structure to protect it from future flooding, all in just one week.Kirkwall airport is located on the main island of the Orkneys, 10-miles off the North coast of Scotland. Presented with a logistically challenging location and a tight project timescale of just 1 week, Newton had no hesitation in recommending the expertise of Wise Basement Systems as the specialist contractor to Building Surveyor Pick Everard.Getting involved at the very start of the project, Wise were immediately able to design, advise on and install a system to remedy the 2 inches of water in the existing basement of the Air Traffic Control tower.Cavity Drain Waterproofing, or ‘Type C’ waterproofing as it is defined by BS 8102:2009 is often the most effective means of achieving a completely dry ‘Grade 3’ environment in an existing structure below ground. It was therefore no surprise that Wise Basement Systems designed a Newton CDM System for this existing basement area.To begin, Wise installed 120m2 of Newton 508 on the walls and 80m2 of the recycled Newton 520 eco to the floor, above the closed-cell Fibran XPS 500-C insulation. The drainage membranes were supplemented with a perimeter channel of Newton Basedrain, directed to a Titan-Pro sump chamber containing two NP400 Pumps to remove the water.Finally, to ensure that the system will continue to work in all eventualities, even in a complete power outage, Wise installed a backup system with dual Northstar batteries and a Victron Power Inverter.Even with a project located 10 miles from the mainland, and 1 week to waterproof a basement with only a 600mm wide access hatch, Wise Basement Systems delivered a completely dry space for the client that was also compliant with BS 8102:2009 and backed by their guarantee.

The eight storey building Faraday House in London is clad in hand-finished copper alloy, reflecting warm light into the spaces around it. But uncontrolled and excessive sunlight can seriously disrupt the experience of comfort. For this reason, the architect opted for structural solar shading. The DucoSlide panels ensure a drop in the average indoor temperature of up to 12% to combat overheating.The Faraday House in London is a  building with imagination; offering a dazzling composition from the Victorian Railway Bridge. The apartments are part of Circus West Village, the first phase of the Battersea Power Station redevelopment.Full height windows frame views of the River Thames and landscaped courtyard, enhancing the feeling of space and light, whilst private terrace balconies and roof-top gardens provide outdoor space.The eight storey building is clad in hand-finished copper alloy, reflecting warm light into the spaces around it. But uncontrolled and excessive sunlight can seriously disrupt the experience of comfort. For this reason, the architect opted for structural solar shading. The DucoSlide panels ensure a drop in the average indoor temperature of up to 12% to combat overheating. The perforated screens animate the façade and provide home owners with additional solar and acoustic control.The result? A better quality of life for residents and a striking composition for visitors as they travel into London Victoria station.

The Northern School of Art’s new Middlesborough campus is a development of regional importance, a major focal point for innovation and creativity in the Tees Valley.Located on a town centre site, the £14.5m iconic scheme comprises over 5,000m2 set over three floors, providing a range of studios for fine art, textiles, fashion, digital media, photography and 3D product design. Its concrete structure with exposed thermal mass, moderates the internal temperatures.Seven Architecture were responsible for the concept and master plan at the new school. Seven Director Simon Parker said, “To ensure a distinct and striking design for this gateway scheme we have introduced glazed terracotta panels to envelope the building which reference the long tradition of ceramics courses provided by the School. They also allow for glimpses into the building via long vertical windows which provide great levels of daylight within the art studios.“Once inside, internal finishes will provide the perfect backdrop for creativity; an exposed concrete frame and polished concrete flooring, coupled with splashes of colour throughout, will create a simple and robust yet flexible space for the students. The design strategy has been carefully established through extensive user consultation and the collaborative nature of this design has created a true flagship building.” Design, build and installation working hand-in-handBAM Construction were design lead and main contractor for the Project. Bill Mordue Interiors carried out the installation of the acoustic systems at the school. Jon Day of the firm, “We were very pleased to be involved with this prestigeous and innovative development. The work progressed smoothly with support from the Rockfon team as and when required. It offered Rockfon the opportunity to demonstrate how versatile their ranges are and how successfully they could control sound within this busy multifaceted setting.”In addition to the various studios and offices housed within the building, Rockfon acoustic systems really earn their place in the workshops, canteen, library, lecture rooms, busy thoroughfares and entrance hall where the pressures of controlling and containing sound in each space offer their own unique challenges. Challenges Rockfon is happy to meet, as independent research shows stress levels are reduced by 27% and focus is increased by 48% by improved acoustics.Performance, versatilty and beautyRockfon’s Jim Lundy, “Across all three floors throughout the school a mixture of Rockfon Universal Baffles, Rockfon® System Eclipse Islands™ and Chicago Metallic™ Infinity® Islands were installed in a variety of larger rectangular formats, sometimes alongside slimmer shapes, to work with the services already installed around and above them. In some instance, lighting and air conditioning are fixed within the panels, demonstrating their versatility. Rockfon Blanka® Activity B wall panels were also used within certain spaces to further control sound and help create the perfect environment for students to study, create, collaborate and socialise productively.”Ideal for thermal mass areas or where easy access to services is required, Rockfon® Universal™ Baffles offer an elegant and innovative acoustic solution. They have a smooth, easy clean fleece surface encased with corrosion resistant powder coated steel in two formats – two end-capped or four fully framed edge, and feature a multi-functional clip assembly which enables several installation and suspension possibilities. Delivering up to 77% light reflectance and diffusion, they are available in white or a selection of colours.The benefits of acoustic systems – seen and unseenThe high light reflectance offered across all our systems optimises natural light, aiding wellbeing and helping provide the best working conditions whilst minimising energy usage and costs. Vitally they all also demonstrate superior reaction to fire due in large part to the inert volcanic rock (stone wool) which forms their core. This stone wool also means Rockfon systems offer no sustenance to organisms which can lead to the growth of bacteria seen in some other ceiling systems.Rockfon Eclipse can be used as ceiling islands and as wall panels. Eclipse can be specified in a variety of shaped formats with a clean minimalistic A-edge and almost unlimited custom colour matching. Quick and easy to install, ceiling islands can be suspended by elegant wires, rods or fixed directly to the soffit.Seven Architecture Associate Architect Dean Murphy, “We felt Rockfon had a clean robust minimalistic design approach for both the suspended baffles & islands which clearly complemented the simplicity of our building design. Rockfon product ranges worked seamlessly alongside our design ideals for this building and worked well with our budget restraints.”The Rockfon Blanka range is available with semi-concealed and visible grid options for use as a suspended ceiling or as wall panels, offering a wide choice of alternatives for installation and usage. All embody Class A sound absorption (aw 1.00), 87% light reflection and >99% light diffusion and room to room sound Insulation 26dB-46dB. Blanka’s easy clean, anti-static surface prolongs product life and is non-directional, speeding up installation, saving time and money.Dr Martin Raby, The Northern School of Art’s Principal, “The increased visibility and accessibility of the School will generate benefits for the region and town, attracting more students and footfall. In turn, this will bring significant economic benefit for the area and help to redefine the image of the Tees Valley for inward investors, students, and visitors.”

We were approached to design & manufacture a range of steel fire-resistant riser doors and personnel doors for Europe's most advanced data centre, located in Canary Wharf, London.This 8-storey building offers 73,400 sqm of space - they needed simple yet secure riser doors to provide fire protection to the internal ducts, containing all the cabling and plumbing required in a sleek, discreet solution that provided maximum access, performance and safety.Alongside the riser doors, Eurobond designed & manufactured personnel doors that could be electronically controlled to control the access and provide an audit trail of personnel movement.The 2 key elements of this project were the riser doors - and the sheer volume required to cover the 8 levels and the access control requirements that had to be well planned and coordinated by Eurobond, the security contractor, end-user and architect.

As a specialist in the automation of access control, Automatic Systems is well aware of the issues faced, especially in the light of recent events, and can offer tailored solutions that not only meet student and staff security needs but also the health and wellbeing of all.

Facade automation for replacement air intake and smoke extraction in accordance with EN 12101-2

Constructed to Audi’s ‘Terminal Concept’ dealership template, originally designed by Allmann, Sattler, Wappner Architekten GmbH, the extensive new showroom and workshop complex replaces Sytner’s previous facility, which it had occupied since 2007.

Natural smoke and environmental ventilation as part of an energy efficient building strategy.

Discover the transformative impact of innovative ventilation and sun control systems tailored for commercial spaces. In the bustling landscape of Spitalfields Market, the quest for optimal indoor climate management led to a collaboration with DUCO for their groundbreaking continuous louvre wall system and architectural sun protection system.Efficiency redefined for dynamic environmentsThe installation of DucoWall Classic 45 HP continuous louvre walls at Spitalfields Market highlights the significance of intensive ventilation. Engineered to offer unparalleled efficiency, this system excels in facilitating substantial airflow while minimising resistance. It's a solution that ingeniously maximises air movement within confined spaces, ensuring a fresh and invigorating environment.Explore our continuous louvre wallsPromoting healthier indoor air qualityIn crowded commercial settings like Spitalfields Market, maintaining a healthy indoor climate becomes paramount. Tom Revitt, UK & I Sales Manager at DUCO, underscores the critical role of ventilation in such spaces:“The DucoWall Classic W 45HP continuous louvre wall stands out not only for its exceptional airflow but also for its sleek and aesthetically pleasing design. It's a seamless integration of form and function, specifically tailored for ventilation to large plant areas that demand both efficiency and visual appeal.”Revolutionising intensive ventilation with DucoGrille Classic F 45 HPAs a pioneering system tailored for intensive ventilation, the DucoGrille Classic F 45 HP marks a significant stride in optimal air movement solutions. Its design, specifically engineered for spaces demanding high airflow rates, ensures an unparalleled level of performance.Tony Colborn, Director Conttego building façade solution provider:"At Spitalfields market, the DucoGrille Classic F 45 HP is installed above glazed window lines for extraction of contaminated air and odours at food vendors. With an exceptionally low resistance factor, this system redefines efficiency by maximising airflow while minimizing energy consumption. Its installation at Spitalfields Market demonstrates its capability to create a controlled, refreshing indoor environment by efficiently purging stale air and introducing fresh air, essential for occupant comfort and well-being.”Discover our intensive ventilation gamutSymbiosis between shielding and sun protectionDucoSun Ellips emerges as an ideal solution to screen off areas, as is the case at Spitalfields Market. Tony Colborn continues: “At Spitalfields, this system is used as privacy screening to screen the park at the side of the building looking directly into the windows of the offices above the retail areas.” The integration of DucoSun Ellips underscores not just technological advancement but a meticulous balance between functionality and architectural finesse, that shields unwanted glances from outside while harmonising with the building's design ethos. But the product has a third asset. For it also ensures that large areas of glass are protected from direct sunlight, ensuring a pleasant indoor climate for everyone."Explore our architectural solar shading gamutTransforming commercial spaces with ventilation excellenceIn a landscape where ventilation and sun control solutions are paramount for comfort and well-being, DUCO's innovative products emerge as game-changers. The integration of these advanced ventilation and sun control systems at Spitalfields market underscores their ability to redefine the standards of indoor climate control, promising a refreshing, invigorating experience for both occupants and visitors alike.A testimonial of excellent functional and aesthetic valuesThe project proceeded seamlessly, culminating in the Main Contractor's satisfaction with the final outcomes. Overall, this project stands as an exemplary reference, showcasing functional and aesthetic excellence.

Cambridge University, Department of Civil EngineeringBauderBLUE STORMcell with BauderSOLAR G LightSynopsisThis new build project in the centre of Cambridge combines a Sustainable urban Drainage Solution (SuDS) with vegetation and renewable energy in a warm roof construction.The client for the Department of Civil Engineering at Cambridge University, R H Partnership, identified sustainability as being a key driver in the design of the roof, but also sought a single source supplier that could provide a guarantee for both workmanship and products. Bauder’s systems range encompasses products to meet all the sustainability objectives, and with our network of approved contractors carrying out the installation, we could offer the comprehensive guarantee that was required.Bauder Building BoardProject:Cambridge University Department of Engineering​Location:CambridgeRoof Area:1610m²Client:University of CambridgeSpecifier:RH Partnership ArchitectsMain Contractor:SDC LimitedApproved Contractor:Voland LimitedThe specificationTo meet the sustainability criteria set out by the client, the Bauder technical team designed a roof system combining an extensive blue roof, a green roof and a solar PV array. The first and most fundamental element of the roof system though is the waterproofing. Bauder Total Green Roof System (BTGRS) was selected as it provides robust and durable waterproofing with a life span in excess of 35 years, as validated by BBA Certificate 10/4744. The Plant E cap sheet has also been tested by the FLL to ensure long term root-resistance, making it ideal for use in conjunction with the BauderSOLAR G LIGHT system. The BauderSOLAR G LIGHT system is a unique way to combine rooftop vegetation with renewable solar energy. The PV panel mounting boards are held in position using the growing medium as ballast, meaning the waterproofing is not penetrated and therefore compromised. The mounting boards incorporate a water retention feature which allows a small amount of excess rainwater to be stored for short periods of time for the various plant species to feed from. The BauderSOLAR G LIGHT system’s unique mounting system lifts the panels above the vegetation allowing the plant life to grow freely and therefore qualify a greater area of the roof as biodiverse.In addition to the BauderSOLAR G LIGHT system, a blue roof was added to the build-up. Blue roofs are sustainable drainage solutions designed to manage stormwater on a flat roof to reduce water runoff rates and ease flash flooding and standing water in built up areas. The BauderBLUE Roof System attenuates water from a flat roof over a 24-hour period via a restrictive flow outlet. Calculations are carried out to determine the rate at which the water should egress the rooftop. This is determined by the local planning authority and is often set as low as 5-8 litres per second per hectare. With these calculations, Bauder can design each flow restrictorto meet the necessary runoff rate. For the Department of Civil Engineering, the main roof area of 1455.5m² required two flow restrictors, each with flow control holes to ensure the specified discharge rate of 0.77 litres per second was achieved. The maximum depth of water the roof is designed for is the H-max. When the water level reaches H-max, it will drain via the emergency overflow pipe. These overflow pipes are set at the same height as the H-max level. On this project the H-max was calculated to be 99mm. Although an unlikely scenario, this provision for a ‘once-in-a-hundred-years’ storm event will ensure that the structural integrity of the building is always preserved.Project challengesThe roof deck was constructed using a pretensioned concrete plank roof structure. Due to the large span of these planks, the dead load weight to the roof would be restricted. This being a blue roof with green landscaping and PV (a reasonably heavy build up), presented the issue of balancing the need of the roof design and the weight restriction of the supporting structure. To add to this challenging scenario, the pretensioned deck did not provide a completely flat finish. When installing a blue roof, a flat deck with no positive or negative falls is essential, as detailed in the 2018 update of BS 6229 – Flat roofs with continuously supported flexible waterproof coverings. To overcome this onsite challenge,the final deflection of the fully loaded roof was calculated and the concrete deck was screeded to give a flat finish.The resultBauder believes this project to be one of the first of its type in the UK to bring together so many rooftop systems in one space. Project management and clear communication was paramount in order to ensure a smooth installation. The Bauder project team consisted of green roof and solar PV product managers, area technical manager, technical design team, site technicians and approved installers for the waterproofing.With all the different elements being installed, green roof and solar PV product managers worked with our technical team to design the best possible PV array configuration for optimum energy generation whilst also qualifying for the maximum biodiverse area.Bauder site technicians worked closely with Bauder approved contractors, Voland Asphalte Ltd, to ensure works were kept to schedule and that a high quality of workmanship was maintained throughout.To ensure the landscaping is maintained, irrigation was installed by Access Irrigation Ltd. The system, Permadrip Pro, is a drip line irrigation system with anti-syphon design to resist clogging and pressure regulation. Due to the specialist nature of the irrigation system, Access Irrigation Ltd provided a bespoke design service.The result of this network of expertise was a multi-faceted support service for the client, specifier, main contractor and roofing and PV installers. System installedBauder Total Green Roof System (BTGRS)1 BauderPLANT E 42Green, 5mm torch-on root-resistant capping sheet.2 BauderTEC KSA DUOA self-adhesive, elastomeric, bitumen underlayer. This underlayer was used to ensure thorough sealing of lap joints in low temperatures when the roof was installed.3 BauderPIR FA-TETissue-faced flatboard insulation faced on both sides with aluminium foil to provide efficient thermal output.4 Bauder Super AL-ETorch-on air & vapour control layer. Once installed on the concrete pretensioned plank deck, it can act as a temporary waterproofing layer, allowing internal works to be carried out immediately which was a huge advantage on this new build project.BauderSOLAR G LIGHTThis BauderSOLAR G LIGHT system was a key factor in the specification of the project to meet the sustainability criteria specified by the client. 40 PV units were installed on the main roof area on the Departmentof Engineering. The forecasted energy generated for this arrayin its first year is 9.91MWh with a CO2 saving of 5.242 tonnes/a. BauderBLUE SR-B flow restrictorThe BauderBLUE SR-B flow restrictor is designed to be used in conjunction with a standard Bauder bitumen blue roof vertical outlet DN70. The flow restrictor is comprised of four parts; baseplate, overflow pipe, baseplate inner and baseplate outer seal. The polyamide baseplate fits within the 70mm vertical outlet, with the EPDM outer seal creating a watertight fit. The HDPE Overflow slots into the central hole of the baseplate with an inner EPDM seal preventing any leaks. The baseplate has a number (1-12) of 10mm restrictive flow holes bespoke to the project. The flow restrictor has no moving parts, hugely reducing the need for maintenance or risk of failure.

Neath Port Talbot Borough Council contacted Frontier Pitts to upgrade an existing road blocker and tag system. The existing system had been installed for over twenty years.The Road Blockers are used to permit access for buses only, through an area where other vehicles have previously used the road as a bypass to avoid other traffic hotspots in the area.The Tag System Technology has progressed greatly in the last twenty years, and the Council were keen to upgrade the system. The same system is also installed and has been in use at Swansea University since 2018. This was to ensure vehicles from both sites could use the same tags across both access control systems.There was also an issue with vandalism in the area, so consideration had to be given to ensure the readers are installed appropriately, to avoid damage.The BenefitsVehicle can be detected at up to 10 metresUHF vehicle tags are inexpensive and easy to fit to vehiclesAvoids the need for manned gatesPrevents unauthorised vehicle accessUsing the same technology readers expanded the system enabling buses to access both sitesThe SolutionFrontier Pitts worked with Nortech Controls who recommended the uPASS Target readers. The readers have a read range of 10 metres so they could be mounted on high access control posts, to solve the problem of vandalism.Neath Port Talbot Council said: “After twenty years of maintenance and support, our local traffic control system needed to be upgraded. We are pleased we could work with Frontier Pitts and Nortech Controls again with the new installation.”

DUCO contributes with sun protection to the £78m project for The University of Manchester. The architectural sun control DucoSun Ellips 200 mm, supplied by Contrasol, was chosen for the Fallowfield campus. The solar shading is so much more than decoration.About the Fallowfield CampusThe Fallowfield is a student accommodation with 8 multi-storey blocks including a Warden’s flat and Energy Centre, amenity hub, landscaping and external works. Each residence will have 10 bedrooms per floor with ensuite bathroom pods and a shared kitchen. 1,122 student rooms are spread over the blocks with a combined floor area of 32,020m2. The Fallowfield Campus is the main residential campus of the University of Manchester. It’s a vibrant place where thousands of students live alongside residents – creating e a real sense of community. The mix of shops, cafes, bars and a frequent bus service to and from the city centre makes it an ideal location to live.Construction detailsThe blocks are constructed using pre-fabricated lightweight steel framing system panels which provide structure to the building when used along with composite concrete floors. External materials are predominantly buff brickwork with feature elevations picked out in charcoal fibre cement slate roofing and cladding. Study bedrooms incorporate built-in storage and furnishings and a high specification pre-fabricated GRP en-suite shower pod.  Solar shading is much more than decorationThe vertical solar shading system DucoSun Ellips was chosen for this project and supplied by Contrasol. This solar shading system, in which a blade with of 200 mm was chosen, guarantees not only maximum daylight, thanks to the optimal inclination angle and number of louvre blades. At the same time, DucoSun Ellips 200 ensures that the sun’s rays do not get a chance to heat up the Fallowfield interior spaces directly. The vertically installed solar shading system offers maximum privacy while maintaining the view outside.

Data centres and server halls present unique challenges that demand a distinct approach to architectural design and infrastructure. These facilities require a delicate balance: efficient ventilation to combat heat accumulation while ensuring robust protection against intrusion and unauthorized access.Challenges faced by Data CentresHeat AccumulationThe relentless heat generated within data centres necessitates effective ventilation systems to manage and disperse this thermal load efficiently.Security and PrivacySimultaneously, the need to shield sensitive information from prying eyes and potential intruders underscores the crucial requirement for stringent security measures without compromising on airflow or functionality. Solutions to Address Data Centre Challenges 1. Natural and Intensive Ventilation To meet the specific needs of each data centre project, our range of ventilation solutions is tailored to ensure optimal airflow. By combining DUCO ventilation products, such as weather-resistant screening and louvres (DucoWall), Nightcooling (NightVent), dampers (DucoGrille Close), transfer grilles, roof turrets for discreet air vent concealment, and sound-absorbing, self-regulating window ventilation, we create bespoke high airflow systems suited to your project's requirements.Explore our high-performance products2. Acoustic Noise ControlNoise pollution management is paramount in data centres. Our DucoWall acoustic louvre walls and sound-absorbing window vents are specifically designed to minimize sound while maximizing airflow to equipment. The louvre blades are filled with non-flammable mineral wool, ensuring effective noise control.Discover our noise control solutions3. High Security LevelEnhancing security and reducing the visibility of machinery is critical. Our DUCO louvre wall screening and structural solar shading act as visible screens, maintaining natural airflow while deterring intruders. The DucoDoor seamlessly integrates with the louvred walls or screening, providing access to server halls and technical areas without drawing attention. Our patented intrusion-resistant solution increases security while shielding open plant equipment from view.Explore our security solutions4. Architectural Solar ShadingPreventing heat penetration through windows or entrances is vital in data centres. Our solar shading solutions reduce heat ingress, minimizing the need for excessive ventilation to maintain a consistent indoor temperature.Find out more about our shading solutionsResults and Impact Implementing these tailored solutions across diverse data centre projects has brought remarkable outcomes:Optimized EfficiencyBespoke ventilation systems have significantly reduced energy consumption while maintaining precise airflow control, ensuring an efficient data centre environment.Enhanced PerformanceAcoustic noise control measures have fostered a quieter and more productive workspace, maximizing equipment performance and staff focus.Improved SecurityIntegrated high-security solutions have fortified data centres against intrusions while maintaining essential airflow and functionality.Sustainability AdvancementsArchitectural solar shading has contributed to sustainability goals by minimizing heat ingress, reducing reliance on energy-intensive cooling systems. These solutions collectively exemplify our commitment to revolutionizing data centre ventilation and solar shading solutions, ensuring optimal performance, security, and sustainability.