"water recycling"

Harmer Drainage high performance Roof Outlets and SML above ground drainage were recently specified for a new, forward thinking children’s hospital in Liverpool.The Alder Hey Children’s Health Park is a large £250m project developed to improve the paediatric medical facility and enhance the experience of both patients and staff. The aim is to set the hospital as a new benchmark for the delivery of paediatric care in the UK and around the world. It includes six wards, a large critical care unit, 16 theatres and a host of clinical services, together with shops and cafes.

The former Holmlea Primary School is one of Glasgow’s most distinctive residential developments, comprising Alumasc’s Heritage Cast Aluminium rainwater system, in a remarkable blend of conservation and new build construction.Originally designed by Andrew Balfour and opened in 1908, the school formally closed in 2004 and the site was disused for 15 years before finally finding a new owner in Home Group. The developer purchased the site with the intention of repurposing both the original school building and the janitor’s house, which is Category B Listed, for rented housing, and the all-new construction of an extension and two new blocks. In total, the redevelopment presents a total of 49 homes, in a mix of social and affordable rent.Architects on the project Anderson Bell + Christie worked closely with Historic Environment Scotland to deliver a sympathetic restoration and addition to the existing building, to bring the building back into use and provide much needed housing to the area.

The Bořislavka shopping center equipped its ceilings with Barrisol® The Recycled sheets with a P50 perforation (2.8 mm) in order to improve its acoustics while bringing a touch of aestheticism in this place with a unique and contemporary architecture.It is nearly 1800 m² distributed in 151 recycled sheets which were installed in the alleys of the shopping mall. The range of Barrisol® Recycled sheets is 100% recyclable and is manufactured from recycled Barrisol® materials (50% pre-consumer).

Set in the heart of the West End, Duke Street is a high end area of commercialised buildings and expensive flats. Some of the listed properties on the street date back as early as the 18th century. Alumasc Rainwater’s range fitted perfectly in this setting. Painted Cast Iron and Heritage Cast Aluminium were specified by Latitude Architects.“The main objective was to provide and produce material as close to the original,” says Alumasc Rainwater. “Bespoke castellated guttering was installed with special curled ear belts to secure the pipes. Together they provided an exact replication of style to the original. We also custom-made guttering that was designed to fit at a specific angle and level of the building.”

Runcorn Station Quarter is a series of transformational projects that will together achieve improved connectivity across Runcorn, Halton and the wider Liverpool City Region. A significant milestone has been reached in the development of Runcorn Station Quarter and the results speak for themselves. Halton Borough Council: Led the redevelopment initiative and partnered with various stakeholders.Civils & Lentils Warrington: Collaborated on addressing utility infrastructure and improving functionality.Balfour Beatty: Executed the construction aspects of the redevelopment as Main ContractorsMott MacDonald: Provided engineering design expertise for major infrastructure reconfigurations and the station piazza.WSP in the UK: Surface water drainage design.Runcorn Train Sation has embraced sustainability initiatives, including automated ticketing systems, digital displays for train schedules, energy-efficient lighting and an innovative approach to urban greening using Rootspace G2 recycled tree pits within the hard paved areas.The careful selection of products with meticulous attention to best practice planting methods and ‘Made in Britain’ certification aimed to prevent pavement upheaval, allowing the trees to attain maximum canopy cover without compromising the integrity of the surrounding infrastructure. The Rootspace load-bearing modular cells, combined with GreenBlue’s Arborsoil Hydro, create an environment with uncompacted soil beneath the surface.Incorporating ancillary items such as Arborvents and Castle Tree Grilles further enhances the overall ecosystem for the planted trees. These elements not only facilitate essential airflow but also provide a visually appealing touch above ground.The Freemans Maple and Himalayan Birch Tree species were chosen for the piazza, along with ornamental planting, adding a touch of natural beauty to the space. The community is expected to take pride in the newly created public space, fostering a sense of ownership and connection to the station.Learning outcomes:• This case study demonstrates the effectiveness of a collaborative approach involving public and private entities.• Working in the initial design phases to map and plan the utilities on site, allowing these utilities to flow seamlessly through the Rootspace soil cell system.Runcorn Train Station’s redevelopment showcases a successful collaboration between public and private entities to create a modern efficient, and sustainable transportation hub. The project not only improves the functionality of the station but also contributes to the broader regeneration goals of the scheme. Download our Tree Species Guide today, to ensure the species you are planting has the correct soil volume beneath ground to reach its full potential and enhance your project.

'new beginnings' start with an impressive arrival sequence...Set between St. Paul’s Cathedral and The Old Bailey, 7 Newgate Street offers occupiers 75,000 sq ft of state-of-the-art contemporary office space following extensive refurbishment. An impressive reception, new 7th floor pavilion and communal roof terrace set the tone for the architectural detailing throughout the building. And, with a focus firmly on customer experience and environmental performance, the re-imagined building required a creative Entrance Matting product to match the overall design vision.High-spec design with beautiful curved features seen all around the lobby area needed the flexibility of INTRAflex Radial Entrance Matting to achieve the creative transition. As the only product on the market able to achieve such an aesthetic without compromising functionality, INTRAflex Radial was a fundamental inclusion for the project.Taking ShapeFrom revolving doors to curved glass covering the front entrance, achieving a matching, radial matting design was integral to the design’s success. Having originally requested a free sample to confirm INTRAflex Radial was the product the architects needed to achieve their vision, MORROW + LORRAINE specified our product having seen the quality, functionality and beauty of our product first hand. Opting for black INTRAlux Elite Fibre Inserts coupled with a black anodised finish – the dark colour scheme complements the interior of the newly refurbished building perfectly.Functionality was integral to the project and was integrated into the design. Although the revolving doors are the main entrances into the building, it was important to ensure that our creative Entrance Matting stretched beyond the width of the revolving doors to deal with the London foot traffic entering through the pass doors in order to protect against dirt and moisture. A commercial office space that Boasts 75,000 sq ft of space will obviously experience high levels of footfall, meaning the INTRAflex Radial was specified for its robust, heavy-duty performance as well as it’s flexible design capabilities.Building for the futureThe sustainable qualities of INTRAflex Radial were an essential consideration for this project. With a real focus on leaving as little an environmental impact as possible, the inclusion of the 100% recycled aluminium Entrance Matting and 100% Econyl fibre inserts helped the finished product to achieve Net Zero Carbon status. With our sustainably manufactured products also reducing environmental impacts in practice such as water usage due to less frequent cleaning, we’re proud to have been involved in such an ethically created, architecturally beautiful and truly creative space.

Artform Urban provides colourful external furniture elements to a new state-of-the-art Children and Young Peoples' Mental Health Service (CYPMHS) inpatient unit for West Yorkshire. Based at the St Mary’s Hospital site in Armley, Leeds, the five-year project led by Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust opened in January 2022. The new facility comprises a 16-bed general adolescent ward and a 6-bed psychiatric intensive care unit all supported by an expert team to offer a range of therapies and support. The building wraps around central courtyards to provide dedicated access to garden spaces at all times. In total there are 4 separate outdoor spaces all have been furnished by Artform Urban Furniture. The primary products specified by Ares Landscape Architects are the Loop range of street furniture; including curving loop benches, conical picnic sets, and Hop Op 500 stools. The products are ideally suited to CAMHS units due to the minimal design and lack of any removable fixtures. The Loop range is formed of rotationally moulded Polyurethane which creates a soft and flexible surface with no sharp edges - this was a key factor in why these products were chosen. The Loop range is also lightweight and can be easily positioned and secured in place using hidden fixtures or alternatively filled with sand or water to be self-weighted units that can be moved as and when required.A bespoke element has been introduced with circular sheets of HPL (High-Pressure Laminate) being added as table toppers to achieve a tamper-proof finish. HPL is manufactured by combining sheets of recycled paper with a binding resin under high pressure - achieving a robust weather-resistant material ideal for external environments.The playful design and inviting colours create a positive and calming atmosphere encouraging time to be spent outside in the fresh air. In the larger garden space, several Stone benches have been installed - in various finishes. The pebble-like design sits naturally in the leafy garden and creates an impromptu social space.In order to facilitate client timings, Artform provided an installation service as well as advice/ guidance during out-of-usual operational hours between Christmas and New Year.For the final installations - Full coordination with the management team was required at Red Kite View as it was now a live site. It was imperative there was no interruption to the patient’s routines while the products were moved through the building and installed.The building was designed in collaboration with clinicians and young people who all contributed their ideas, hopes, and aspirations for care. They also helped to decide on the name ‘Red Kite View’ as nature is strongly associated with mental wellbeing and rehabilitation.

Experienced flooring contractors, Variety Carpets, have used a number of UltraFloor’s subfloor preparation materials to install 200sqm of flooring at Priory Academy in Dunstable.BackgroundPriory Academy has served the local Dunstable community for over 100 years and educates 800 pupils every year. In summer 2022 work began to upgrade the flooring in their school kitchen and store rooms.The ChallengeVariety Carpets had a short window to complete the installation and with the Academy only closed for six weeks during the summer holiday, time really was of the essence.The SolutionAfter scarifying the bitumen and vacuuming the area to remove any contaminants, Variety Carpets primed the subfloor with a neat coat of UltraFloor Prime IT Multi-surface Primer.Formulated to promote adhesion to all UltraFloor smoothing underlayments, Prime IT Multi-surface Primer reduces pinholing, minimising the risk of costly failures. With a coverage rate of 200m² at 3:1 dilution, Prime IT multi-surface Primer is a must-have product for all flooring installation projects.The next day, and once Prime IT Multi-surface Primer had fully dried, Level IT Hydra Bond was applied across the 200sqm area at a 3mm depth. Level IT Hydra Bond is a ground-breaking, water based floor leveller that can be applied to bitumen and adhesive residues without the need to prime.Level IT Hydra Bond is a super polymer modified smoothing compound which utilises UltraFloor’s unique technology – a process which enhances application and boasts unrivalled flow properties. What’s more, each bag of Level IT Hydra Bond also contains 20% recycled material.In addition, Level IT Hydra Bond can receive bonded floor coverings after 4 hours, has an extended working time of 45 minutes for optimal usability, and is moisture tolerant and protein free.To complete the installation, Altro Walkway 20, hard wearing vinyl flooring was installed the very next day and finished for a customer inspection on day five.ResultsThanks to the expertise of Variety Carpets, the five day flooring installation was completed on time and without issue. On using UltraFloor, Mark Blanchard, Director at Variety Carpets, commented: “We enjoyed using UltraFloor materials. The wet edge time is ideal for larger areas and warmer weather. The project completed at the end of August 2022 in hot temperatures, so it was really ideal. The set time of 4 hours means when we finished late afternoon, it was suitable to lay on the next day.”

CRT Flooring Specialists Ltd have used UltraFloor’s latest product innovation, Level IT Hydra Bond, to install 800sqm of vinyl flooring at Warrington’s £4.3 million Emergency Department extension.BackgroundLeading infrastructure and building specialists, Tilbury Douglas, have been appointed by Warrington and Halton Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust to complete the £4.3 million Warrington Emergency Department extension.The much-needed investment will increase capacity, improve patient care and modernise facilities.The ChallengeHigh performance products that would work quickly and withstand the constant and heavy trafficking of hospital staff, patients and medical equipment were critical to the success of this project.The SolutionFollowing a bespoke site specification completed by UltraFloor’s Technical Training and Site Support Manager, Martin Pouncey, CFA members and expert flooring contractors, CRT Flooring Specialists Ltd, used DPM IT, Prime IT Multi-surface Primer and Level IT Hydra Bond to complete the 800sqm installation.DPM IT is a two component, solvent free epoxy resin system for use as a surface damp proof membrane. Designed to provide protection against subfloor moisture, DPM IT has a pot life of 45 – 75 minutes, a cure time of 5 hours and boasts a 98% RH floor moisture tolerance.Formulated to promote adhesion to all UltraFloor smoothing underlayments, Prime IT Multi-surface Primer reduces pinholing, minimising the risk of costly failures. With a coverage rate of 200m² at 3:1 dilution, Prime IT multi-surface Primer is a must-have product for all flooring installation projects.Once fully dried, UltraFloor Level IT Hydra Bond was applied across the 800sqm area. Level IT Hydra Bond is a ground-breaking, water based floor leveller that can be applied to bitumen and adhesive residues without the need to prime.Level IT Hydra Bond is a super polymer modified smoothing compound which utilises UltraFloor’s unique technology – a process which enhances application and boasts unrivalled flow properties. What’s more, each bag of Level IT Hydra Bond also contains 20% recycled material.In addition, Level IT Hydra Bond can receive bonded floor coverings after 4 hours, has an extended working time of 45 minutes for optimal usability, and is moisture tolerant and protein free.ResultsOn the performance of UltraFloor Level IT Hydra Bond, Richard Martin, Office Manager at CRT Flooring Specialists Ltd, commented: “It’s fantastic. Flows really well.”The vinyl flooring installation was completed on time and the remaining extension work is continuing as scheduled.

ESSENZA HOME opts for a sustainable green façadeInterior and lifestyle brand ESSENZA HOME has moved into a new, completely renovated office in Bunnik in 2021. The new office is entirely sustainability-oriented. The Mobilane green façade at Essenza Home contributes to the company’s sustainability vision and provides a warm welcome for its retailers, customers, and staff. Family business ESSENZA HOME has been designing, producing, and distributing home & living products to suit various interior styles for 60 years. In 2021, the company moved to a new office in Bunnik. The building of no less than 2500 m2 is located directly on the A12 motorway. The new premises was built with an eye to the future and aligned with their sustainability vision. Therefore, the sustainable green Mobilane façade was a logical choice.Installation of the green façadeThe installation of the green walls was quick and easy. The green walls, with a total surface area of over 200 square meters, were placed against the stone and wooden façade by means of Magnelis steel omega profiles. The design incorporated the window and door sections and the water and electricity pipes.The almost 10,000 plants are installed in modular cassettes and pixels attached to the profiles. All of the cassettes, pixels, and covers are made of a fire-retardant EPP (B-s2, d0). This material is light, UV-resistant, air-permeable (for good root growth), and fully recyclable. An automated irrigation system provides the MobiPanel green walls with water and nutrients.Plant selection for the green façadeThe plants in the green facades were selected according to various factors. The orientation of the façade, the different flowering seasons, plants that stimulate biodiversity, and, finally, aesthetics were all considered. For example, Bregenis ‘Bressingham White’ is a beautiful spring bloomer with elegant white flowers that bloom from April onwards. The Vinca minor is a strong evergreen covering plant. It also flowers very early in spring. Vinca minor can be used on facades in both sunny and shady spots. The Vinca will produce more flowers in the sun than in the shade. Geranium Rozanne is a carrier plant for wild bees. Many species of wild bees, as well as butterflies and bumblebees, find their nectar here.Advantages of the green façadeThe green wall on the two outer walls is a real eye-catcher. Floor Smits, Head of Brands and second generation in the family business: “As a family business, we find it important to focus on the long term. During the renovation, we, therefore, invested heavily in sustainable solutions. When we were introduced to the possibility of a vertical garden for the façade, we were immediately enthusiastic. The green wall has many advantages, such as purifying the air, increasing biodiversity, and providing a nice haven for bees and other insects. Finally, we want to make a statement and show that we are committed to a sustainable world.” In addition to the office, there is also a b2b showroom and a brand store will be opened for consumers this year.Increased biodiversityRosalie Smits, Head of Channels and also the second generation of the family business, indicates that biodiversity is an important spearhead for the organization.The green façade attracts many insects, thus stimulating biodiversity in the area. As described earlier, the flowers of Geranium Rozanne, among others, provide nectar for many insects such as the wild bee and butterflies. Wild bees and butterflies are an important link in our food chain. They provide 60% of the pollination of our fruit and vegetables.The facades also attract various birds and other insects and serve both as food and as nesting and hiding places. In the cassettes between the plants, birds can nest safely. The first bird’s nest in the green façade at Essenza Home was found just a few weeks after installation.Client: ESSENZA HOMEArchitect: BK PuntConstruction period: 2021Installation: MobiCare

Recycling bins featuring posters designed by schoolchildren are encouraging beach visitors to recycle plastic bottles and cans.

Derby residents and visitors are being urged to recycle on the go with new litter and recycling bins installed across the city.

Recycling bins displaying eye-catching graphics have been delivered to Telford Town Park by Broxap to drive up recycling rates.

BACKGROUND: The facility will open at the Eastgate Car Park as part of the Government strategy to improve localised access to coronavirus tests.REQUIREMENT: Fully compliant ramps and steps in double quick time to allow the site to open before the end of the week. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: A few hours after receiving the enquiry and measurements, CAD/technical drawings and a quotation were drawn up and sent to the client.  END RESULT: The measurements were received Monday evening, and all components were picked and packed Tuesday morning and delivered to site for Wednesday morning.The systems were fitted by our installation team Wednesday, ready for use by Thursday at midday.We were true to our name, delivering the project rapidly in less than a week. This was achieved with our in-house team, which included a site surveyor, designer, and installers.All components were available from stock and ready for installation as soon as required.FEATURES INCLUDED:Infill Handrail - this product prevents users from climbing or falling through gaps.Yellow Tread - this is a safety feature designed to help those with impaired vision identify the nose of the ramp. Additionally, it helps users distinguish any level changes. The colour yellow is chosen because as a bright colour, it has the ability to reflect light. Therefore, it makes it easier for the user to see whilst reducing the risk of trips and falls.Trombone Ends - these are added to the ends of a Rapid Ramp to prevent clothes catching.Mesh Platform - this self-draining mesh platform allows water to pass through rather than puddle on the surface and potentially freeze.Rest Platform – a rest platform at 5 metres is required to allow the user to pause.1100mm High Rail – these handrails attach to any level sections.Continuous Handrail- this handrail system ensures users always have support to hold onto.EXTRA FEATURE INCLUDED:Standard Step Units - an ideal addition to any ramp installation, providing the access needed for able-bodied users. They can also be stand-alone units, independent of the Rapid Ramp System.ACCESS RAMPS & STEPS FOR PREFABRICATED BUILDINGS:Like modular buildings, our ramps & steps are prefabricated systems, carrying benefits including:A fast construction time - Ramp installations are typically completed within a 1 to 2-day turnaround time. Components are manufactured and stored in-house.Easy to remove – Once no required, ramps can be disassembled within a few hours.Design and build flexibility - Ramps can be re-designed and re-configured to suit different sized areas.Cost-effective – Our access ramp has a life span of over 25 years with no maintenance costs.Environmental benefits – Ramp components can be reused under our ramp recycling scheme.Safety features - Includes handrails for grip and a slip-resistant mesh platforms as standard.

Vandersanden, Europe's largest brick-producing family business, plans to reduce its ecological impact by 15 percent by 2023[1] and aims to be fully carbon neutral by 2050. To achieve this goal, the family business is making its packaging more sustainable, using recycled material and less ink. In this way, Vandersanden is taking an important step towards circular packaging. In 2022, Vandersanden will only use plastic sleeves and shrink-wrap that consists of at least 30 per cent recycled material. By the end of that year, a large proportion of the packaging will contain 50 per cent recycled material. This is one of the initiatives the family business is embarking on, to reduce its carbon footprint by 15 per cent by 2023, compared to the benchmark in 2019 and to be completely carbon neutral by 2050."By using covers and sleeves that consist of 30 per cent recycled materials, 400,000 kg less CO2 is emitted annually," explains Raf Jansen, Chief Operations Officer at Vandersanden. "That is equivalent to planting 17,000 trees. In time, we want to increase that share to 50 per cent recycled materials, which in environmental terms is the equivalent of 58 hectares of forest or 29,000 trees. These figures clearly show that the environmental benefits of recycling are enormous."Investing in generationsIn addition to increasing the use of recycled materials, Vandersanden is also ensuring that less ink is used for printing on its packaging. The brick manufacturer will introduce eco-printing at all its production sites during 2022, which means that only a maximum of 10 percent of the packaging surface will be printed. This has several advantages for the environment. The smaller print area requires up to 80 percent less ink, and eco-printed sleeves are also easier to recycle into high-quality material."By printing on a maximum of 10 percent of the packaging surface, we save on ink and our packaging becomes easier to recycle. This is an important step towards circular packaging and a contribution to our long-term goal of being completely CO2 neutral by 2050. I am proud of the efforts of all our employees and partners to make our production processes increasingly sustainable. As a family business, we think in terms of generations, not years," adds Raf Jansen.Innovation through repeated testingIn order to guarantee the quality of the new sustainable packaging, Vandersanden conducted several tests during its development in the past year. This is to ensure the strength of the recycled material packaging is guaranteed. These tests were so positive that further tests are currently underway to make the shrink wrap thinner as well, in order to use even less material.Vandersanden is taking action at all levels of its organisation to minimise its environmental impact and achieve the goal of CO2 neutrality by 2050. For instance, Vandersanden is currently examining how it can deal with pallets in a sustainable way and is taking steps to work with return pallets. Another recent example of sustainability initiatives undertaken by Vandersanden, is the introduction of the most energy-efficient brick kiln in Europe at Tolkamer. The family business also published its first sustainability report in 2021, the Collective Wellbeing 2020 report, with a full overview of all its sustainability initiatives and objectives.[1] compared to 2019

ASF supplied this 100% recycled cast iron post for an extensive project in Southport. Ranging from footpath areas to the seafront the scheme includes an inland wetland and an area of parapet. Supplied with galvanised rails and the whole job finished in a satin dark blue this post and rail system really stands outThe incredible longevity of the 100% recycled cast iron means that these posts have a lifespan in excess of 100 years

ASF have for many years supplied these bollards for the Albert Dock area of Liverpool. Supplied in 2 different sizes - some to the standard pattern dimensions and some to a larger bespoke dimension the bollards are set up both as stand alone and with chain and chain eyes to form chain barrier systems.Manufactured in 100% recycled cast iron, and 100% recyclable and with an expected lifespan in excess of 100 years, these bollards are ideal for such a valuable and historic site

High performing acoustic underlay was selectedfor use below a 20mm engineered wood flooras part of a flooring refurbishment project in aprivate home. The SS400 was loose laid to the subfloor with the 20mmengineered wood flooring floated above. The tongue andgroove joints were bonded with PVA adhesive.Other points to include:• SS400 manufactured using recycled rubber crumb, so extremely environmentally friendly.• Durable - provides long lasting performance and will not deteriorate or collapse over time.• SS400 is a high performing acoustic underlay, ideally suited for use with wood flooring and laminates, providing excellent impact performance in excess of the UK buildingregulations.• Hygienic – naturally antimicrobial, anti-allergy and resistant to decay with low VOCs.Benefits of Soundsure 400• Exceeds the performance standards required in the UK Building Regulations for sound insulation• Suitable for use with underfloor heating systems• Manufactured using recycled materials and fully recyclable• Recycled rubber crumb ensures long-lasting acoustic performance• Cushioned underlay to provide underfoot comfort• Rubber crumb provides superb stability, performance and durability• Will not deteriorate or collapse over time.• Reduces subfloor preparation times as screed or smoothing compounds are not required• Green Label Plus accredited

We designed and installed 3 of our MG100 movable acoustic walls to a project in London to create flexible working spaces for our client. Their chosen panel finish included a magnetic wipe board along with our PanelHush PET acoustic wall panels. The PET panels help reduce the room echo/reverberation which gives a better working environment. PanelHush PET range is a 100% recyclable acoustic panel that is manufactured from recycled PET bottles. Weuse 65% post-consumer recycled fibres and our products are 100% recyclable.The PET panels come in 12mm or 24mm thick sheets with a choice of 14 different colours to match your design need The installation of our MG100 movable acoustic wall panels gives an element of flexibility which is suddenly added to your space. Therefore, the environment can quickly be manipulated to cater for any of your flexible space needs. Whether that be for meetings or a little bit of privacy. Our MG100 Series also has a strong fire rating of up to 1 hour. We believe that not only should our products look sleek and provide a practical option, but most importantly, they should be able to be called upon in times of emergency.

“From the materials used throughout the build process to how it’s powered, along with creating new areas of natural habitat to enhance the biodiversity of the site and local area, we’re bringing together skills and expertise from across McDonald’s and the partners we work with. From 2023 furniture and construction materials in new and refurbished restaurants will be made with recycled or certified materials and designed to be recycled or reused at end of life ”Construction Director, McDonald’s UK & Ireland The Absorb-R ToughSound acoustic-panels are environment friendly, fully recyclable natural components that offer optimal sound absorption and extensive resistance to fire. Surface applications include ceiling and wall mounting.Absorb-R ToughSound is a high performing high impact sound absorbing wood wool system, concept with excellent eco credentials which store heat from the ambient air.

Stainless steel litter and recycling bins help the University of Leeds maintain high standards on campus.

Litter and recycling bins have been installed along the waterways to encourage boaters, walkers and visitors to clean up.

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

Set to be the tallest building in Africa at 250-metres with 55 stories, Mohammed Tower IV is a new high-rise tower designed by Rafael de la Hoz & Hakim Benjelloun to resemble a rocket on its launch pad. The striking development will be visible from 50km in all directions and forms the centre piece in the Bouregreg Valley Development Project, which plays a leading role in the development programme for Rabat, ‘the City of Light,’ in the Moroccan Capital of Culture. Once complete, the project will provide a luxury hotel, commercial offices, high-end residential apartments, and a viewing sky terrace.The ChallengeSustainability and energy efficiency are both primary design considerations in this project, with the client aiming to achieve LEED Gold and HQE quality standards. LEED certification provides an independent guarantee of a building’s green features, with a LEED Gold rating representing first-class leadership in resource-efficient building design, construction, operations, and maintenance.Farrat were contacted via our export partner in the GCC region, UniGroup, to supply a high-performance, robust, and certified fire-resistant thermal break solution to mitigate against thermal bridging across façade connections for contemporary facade design company Glassline Abu Dhabi. Farrat Structural Thermal Breaks are favoured across the construction industry, as the most efficient & responsible way to thermally separate structural connections and prevent heat loss in the building envelope.The thermal breaks would form part of a wider sustainable construction program, alongside smart energy efficiency systems such as 3350 m² of photovoltaic solar panels on the South façade, rainwater recovery and wastewater recycling systems and an internal energy recovery system to produce hot water.The SolutionFollowing a review of the connection designs, Farrat TBF was selected as the optimal structural thermal break material for extensive use across the façade connections of Mohammed Tower, to prevent heat transfer through steel beams where the external building aspects meet the interior.Farrat TBF is an A2 rated non-combustible structural thermal break material capable of maintaining superior structural performance at temperatures more than 1000°C. Farrat TBF also provides high-level thermal performance to solve structural thermal bridge issues and exceeds all current fire regulatory requirements for buildings above (and below) 18m.Following several high-rise fire tragedies across the globe, increasing numbers of building designers are looking to go beyond the standard when it comes to fire safety.The DesignThe inherent non-combustible composition of Farrat TBF was the solution to the fire element of the design, allowing unrestricted use in the high-rise construction. Use of the material’s remarkably high compressive force resistance allowed Farrat to assess the transmission of loads through the structural connection, sufficient to maintain performance under influence from weather stresses.The Outcome“In designing and securing this high-performance project, Farrat utilised the full extent of our material research & development skills and harnessed our extensive experience of thermal bridging projects in all climates and circumstances around the globe,” states Chris Lister, Commercial Manager of Structural Thermal Breaks at Farrat.“The resulting construction details are to the highest levels of structural and fire safety performance whilst also being beautiful in their simplicity.”Structural Thermal Breaks with FarratFarrat Structural Thermal Breaks are favored across the construction industry, as the most efficient & responsible way to thermally separate structural connections and prevent heat loss in the building envelope.#onamission

AN ABERDEEN-based specialist school has received a recycled bench from Crown Paints as a lasting legacy of the relationship built up with the city’s council. The bench, which is made from recycled paint containers, was presented to students at Orchard Brae School to celebrate the ongoing work between Crown Paints and Aberdeen City Council. Caroline Stirton is the Executive Head Teacher at Orchard Brae School, which caters for children affected by severe and complex needs. She said: “We’re really impressed with our new bench and it provides the ideal spot for the children to relax.”

We built the world first Passivhaus CPD training facility / pub, this is the worlds most airtight pub at 0.07ach at 50 pa. This is a twin wall timber frame, it’s 450mm wide insulation Huntsman which is made of thousands of recycled plastic bottles. Huntsman also recycled 1 billion plastic bottles from the sea last year. We have a 7.2 KW system solar panels system that powers the building, it’s got MVHR Nilan. On the external façade we applied Passive Purple External which is airtight up to 0.03ach.

New 480-litre large capacity litter and recycling bins have been installed in Bedford parks as part of a waste management strategy.

Italia-Corten louvred screening makes a striking statement at a technology park and science hub, which is being developed with an ambitious commitment to renewables. The louvre panel system has been used to contrast with stainless steel mesh, etched with an artwork of forest trees. The client specified a strong hi-tech identity with a visible natural imprint, using materials capable of expressing sustainability and modernity. The Italia-Corten, which has a high recycled content, 100% recyclability, requires no finishing treatments and is maintenance free, fulfilled the brief for a material with a low environmental impact and a strong aesthetic.

Setting the benchmark for UK Waste Authorities, North London Heat and Power are creating one of the most advanced Energy Recovery Facilities (ERF’s) in the world. The new EcoPark will turn non-recyclable rubbish into heat and electricity. Operating under strict regulations, the new site will become one of the cleanest and safest ERF’s in the world.Setting the benchmark for UK Waste Authorities, North London Heat and Power are creating one of the most advanced Energy Recovery Facilities (ERF’s) in the world. The new EcoPark will turn non-recyclable rubbish into heat and electricity. Operating under strict regulations, the new site will become one of the cleanest and safest ERF’s in the world.

The Loxley Shelter is our 100% plastic free cycle shelter. Made from recyclable galvanised steel and redwood from an FSC environmentally certified source, this shelter is the eco-friendly answer to sustainable cycle storage. The frame and roof construction is predominately structural graded timber to EN14081-2, pressure preservative treated with Tanalith® E against fungal decay and insect attack. Shelter feet are of steel construction for structural strength and to increase the life of the timber by keeping it away from the damp ground. Roof covering is fully recyclable galvanized steel,even the locknuts and roofing washers are plastic free alternatives.

Crown’s earthbalance scheme sets out the company’s commitment to being more sustainable and less wasteful as well as helping customers and staff make responsible decisions. The earthbalance scheme covers all aspects of Crown’s business and applies to all staff and operations at Crown’s two UK manufacturing plants and network of Crown Decorating Centres. Crown has reduced its overall electricity consumption by 15 per cent, reduced packaging waste by approximately 15 per cent, recycled more than 800 tonnes of paint cans and donated 112 benches made using recycled paint cans through social enterprise NIMTECH.

The Sonixx Soundsure 400 high performance acoustic underlay was selected for use below a 1/2" engineered wood floor, as part of a flooring refurbishment project in an office building.The installers had nothing but positive feedback on how quick and easy the underlay was to work with. The underlay facilitated a simple, clean and cost-effective installation.Comments in praise of the installation include: 'With the SS400 under, it feels way nicer than most wood floors I walk on' and the owner of the building said, 'We are loving the floor.... everyone comments on the floor when they walk in.'In addition, the underlay provides high quality comfort, stability and performance.The SS400 was loose laid to the subfloor with the 1/2" engineered wood flooring floated above. The tongue and groove joints were bonded using a PVA adhesive.Features of Soundsure 400:Environmentally Friendly - manufactured using recycled rubber crumb.Durable - provides long-lasting performance and will not deteriorate or collapse over time.High Performing - ideally suited for use with wood flooring and laminates, providing excellent impact performance in excess of the UK building regulations.Hygenic - naturally anti-microbial, anti-allergy and resistant to decay with low VOCs.Benefits of Soundsure 400:Exceeds the performance standards required in the Building Regulations for sound insulation.Suitable for use with underfloor heating systems.Manufactured using recycled rubber materials and fully recyclable.Recycled rubber crumb ensure long-lasting acoustic performance.Cushioned underlay to provide underfoot comfort.Will not deteriorate or collapse over time.Reduces subfloor preparation times as screed and smoothing compounds are not required.Green Label Plus accredited for indoor air quality and low VOC emissions.

With new products online, Rawson showcases some successes in the workspace arena, focussing mainly on new products and the endless design possibilities available with the ranges. In addition, introducing RECOVER recyclable carpet tiles.

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

Fulham JettyBauder Bakor 790-11 hot melt structural system with Bauderflex waterproofing system and BauderGREEN sedum systemSynopsisFulham Wharf is a landmark regeneration scheme that began in 2013 and included the ecological enhancement of an abandoned jetty on the River Thames. This redevelopment was designed to provide the local community with an ecological education centre and bio-diverse wildlife reserve.Bauder Building BoardProject:Fulham JettyLocation:LondonRoof Area:1,000m²Specifier:FabrikApproved Contractor:Accurate RoofingProject challenges One of the major challenges for this roof was installing the central sloped section, which required exceptional levels of technical input and workmanship. This roofing area was waterproofed with the same bituminous green roof system as the upper roof; however a special timber design for retaining the substrate and sedum blanket was also needed. Since its official opening in October 2013, the lower wildflower roof has become a haven for a variety of different birds and insects.The resultThe building’s new roof swoops down to become a continuum with the jetty deck and is covered with a green habitat providing three distinct environments for wildlife; one on the flat roof, one on the slope and the third on the jetty deck. The education centre roof was waterproofed with Bauder’s root resistant bitumen membrane before then having a sedum blanket fitted. On the lower roof, 650m² of Bauder’s hot melt structural waterproofing was installed along with a wildflower blanket, providing an instant carpet of vegetation. Systems installedBauderflex bituminous waterproofing system1 BauderPLANT E 42A torch applied, SBS elastomeric bitumen capping sheet. The product features chemically treated bitumen to deliver superior root resistance which has been tested and approved by the FLL. The membrane is reinforced with 250g/m² spunbond polyester fleece to allow the finished product to cope with structural movement without fracture.2 BauderTEC SPRINT DUOSelf-adhesive bitumen underlayer with “DUO” lap technology to ensure thorough sealing of lap joints, even in lower temperatures. The product features a glass fleece reinforcement for strength and stability. The product benefits from cleaner, safer, and faster installation than traditional torch-applied membranes.3 BauderPIR FA-TELightweight, PIR flatboard insulation board with aluminium foil facing on both sides. This product has zero ozone depletion potential.4 BauderTEC KSD FBSSelf-adhesive air and vapour control layer with a mica finished upper surface to allow easy bonding of insulation using the specified Bauder Insulation AdhesiveBauder Bakor 790-11 hot melt waterproofing system1 BauderPLANT E 42Torch-on root-resistant, green capping sheet. Reinforced with spunbond polyester fleece to allow the finished product to cope with structural movement without fracture.2 790-11 with reinforcement layerHot melt rubberised bitumen asphalt with a percentage of post-consumer recycled materials that infills and fully bonds to all minor deviations in the deck.3 DeckPrimed concrete.Bauder 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

Broxap Street Furniture has designed, manufactured and installed a range of cycle parking and has supplied seating, picnic benches, door barriers and litter and recycling bins for the £20 million Chorlton High School South.