"window"

Architectural glazing systems by Kawneer were specified as a “key aspect” of the new regional head office of British Sugar’s parent company, the FTSE 25 Associated British Foods (ABF), for their pedigree and quality.CPMG Architects selected products from all of Kawneer’s portfolio for the building on a 4.5-acre site at Cygnet Business Park, Hampton, Peterborough, which would enable the relocation of almost 400 people from ABF businesses locally (AB Sugar, British Sugar, AB Mauri, ABF Ingredients and ABF) with the addition of purpose-built conference and training facilities and a showcase central reception area. Kawneer’s aluminium AA®100 SSG (Structurally Silicone Glazed) curtain walling features on the ground floor reception, meeting/conference spaces and south-facing restaurant/café while AA®100 mullion-drained curtain walling has been used on the first and second floor open-plan offices of the three-storey building.In addition, the 5,755m2 (GIA) building features ultra-thermally efficient AA®720 doors, large (3m high by 9m wide) AA®3572 sliding doors and over-sized (2.4m by 0.7m) AA®720 parallel opening windows, all installed by approved specialist sub-contractor Norman & Underwood.

BACKGROUNDSomerset based premium ready meal producer, Charlie Bigham’s, required a new production facility as part of their continuing expansion plans. The original building design specified standard, non-fire rated vison panels with automatic fire rated shutters to close off the openings in the event of a fire. This solution required complicated and costly controls and additionally, the surface-mounted shutters would create ledges and inaccessible areas that were not suitable for hygienic environments.BRIEFTurnkey technical contractor TSL required a cost-effective alternative to the proposed fire rated window solution that would maintain the fire rating and hygienic requirements for a food manufacturing facility. Having worked with MIDDAS previously on other projects, TSL turned to the team for a viable solution.SOLUTIONMIDDAS designed and manufactured a solution from its wide range of independently tested, flush triple-glazed vison panels. The vision panels are designed so the outer glazing of the cassette finishes flush with the walls, ensuring a hygienic, wipe-clean surface. The third inner pane of the triple glazed vision panels provided the fire barrier.MIDDAS vision panels are engineered to integrate into any third party wall type, including fire rated walls supplied and installed by others, negating the need for the originally proposed fire shutters.

The Pears Building by Hopkins Architects is a world-class immunology research and treatment centre built for University College London. With only 5 similar specialist immunology centres in the world (and the only one outside of the US), the Pears Building offers world-class expertise to patients. The Pears Building provides offices, multiple research wings to house over 200 researchers and a 35-bed patient hospital for outpatients or visiting academics.At the centre of the building is a large atrium with joins the wider building and its office space to the public-facing café and entrance area. Vast, open windows flood interiors with huge amounts of natural light creating a soothing, and uncluttered feeling. Materials selected for the building were done for their sustainable credentials, ease of maintenance, durability, and cost.The Pears Building was designed to avoid becoming a “monolithic” structure and sits well within the local area. During its construction efforts were made to retain as many existing trees on the site as possible to ensure the village-esque feeling of Hampstead is uninterrupted. As expected with forward-thinking institutions, the architects endeavoured to achieve a BREEAM excellent rating, which it easily achieved with its holistic approach to sustainability.The Pears building uses Freshfield Lanes First Quality Multi in its construction and has been commended for numerous awards and won the Public Buildings award at the Construction News Awards.

A large number of Decimetric modular stainless steel sinks, from GEC Anderson, were specified for the Environmental Science Laboratory at The University of Liverpools new Central Teaching Laboratories (CTL) for the Faculty of Science and Engineering. The specification called for a high performance and durable solution that was easy to maintain.Decimetric sinks provide a flexible and versatile framework of sizes in 100mm x 100mm increments so as to enable versatility and easy specification. This particular project required large double sink bowls (400 x 400 x 250m deep) set in 1400 x 600mm tops. Each sink was fitted with GEC Anderson V220 Sand Traps to collect solids and to prevent blockages.The bulk of the sinktops were installed on the first floor Environmental Science Laboratory situated in the East Wing. They run the full length of the windowed wall and provide washing facilities for 170 individual work stations.The client demanded high specification of internal fittings and a high concentration of laboratory fittings which would endure heavy usage during their life time. Hard wearing and highly functional, the professional grade brushed satin stainless steel tops provide a long life with very low maintenance. Torsten Bauszus from ADP LLP Architects said, GECA were chosen for their ability to provide modular, professional grade stainless steel tops with no joints at the sink which will make them very easy to clean and maintain.

Located to the south of Newark, Middlebeck is a 694-acre urban extension which will provide new housing, access to local amenities and a new purpose built primary school. The Christ Church C of E Primary School has been constructed to serve the local community and boasts an attractive design by Gollifer Langston Architects, with the L shape plan of the new school forming two sides of a courtyard.Constructed by the Lindum Group, the attractive and contemporary design of the new school building embraces the use of natural daylighting and the extensive use of glazing helps to strengthen the connection between interior and exterior spaces. Senior’s slimline SF52 aluminium curtain wall system has created a light and welcoming entrance, with Senior’s versatile SPW600 aluminium windows and secure SPW501 aluminium commercial doors used throughout.Robust and fully recyclable, Senior’s aluminium fenestration systems were powder-coated to further enhance durability and to complement the white brise-soleil installed to the south side of the building to help control solar gain. Additional solar shading protection from the overhanging roof, in addition to the use of natural ventilation, photovoltaic roof panels and underfloor heating also contribute to the overall sustainable design of the school building.Senior worked closely with supply chain partner Alusec to deliver the fenestration package.

Situated in one of the most expensive boroughs in the Capital, this grade 2 listed building houses 24 luxury apartments, and 1 penthouse across its 6 floors.This building was ahead of its time in 2008-10, with a curved façade and panoramic views for each apartment, designed by award-winning architects Dixon Jones. Dixon Jones Architects closed its door in September 2020 after 30 years. The architects state they were negatively affected by the Covid-19 pandemic and were both in their 80s when they closed. Some of their most famous projects include the Royal Opera House, National Gallery and Oxford and Cambridge Universities to name a few.The prices of the apartments range between £1-2 million and its understandable when the interior features contemporary finishes, full-height windows, balconies with private terraces, lift access and a car parking space. It’s set in an ideal location with 3 stations all within 0.6 miles and Chelsea football club, and Westminster hospital both within walking distance.We worked with the Architects to reach the solution of our timber leaf riser door system, Una. This allowed them to fit standard ironmongery including locks, flush bolts, and handles. The architect chose to go with our butt hinges to allow for a contemporary finish to match the interiors, although these riser doors were installed in the corridors.

So here we have a stunning steel framed barn conversion stripped down and retrofit with a huge hybrid timber frame panel system manufactured and installed by White Haus Bespoke Timber Frame. These panels are made up of 140mm insulated timber frame, 9mm OSB sheathing with Passive Purple External and two 50mm cross battens externally, followed by feathered edge cladding. With the internal side then adding an additional 50mm PIR insulation flowing into the joist zones with one continuous layer of Passive Purple and 25mm counter battens for services. This 326mm wall build up has used both Passive Purple and Passive Purple External which meet in the window formers to guarantee the build its internal airtight vapour control and external weatherproof breather membrane. The Joints in the OSB, PIR insulation and fixings into the timber frame studwork were all prepped like always using the BRUSH versions of both Passive Purple and Passive Purple External. This fibre reinforced product allows for a tough hold and elongation on any shrinkage the insulation or timber may have with building settlement or extreme changes in climate. With only a score of 2.5ach required, Intelligent Membranes have given this wonderfully unique home the full treatment for perfect performance to keep the HVAC system running on low hassle percentage and optimal performance output.

Rudi Peeters, new CEO of Vandersanden: “Collective Well-being is the reason why I came to Vandersanden”Vandersanden launches its Collective Well-being 2021 report. In this report, Vandersanden provides a transparent annual overview of its efforts and results in terms of sustainability across four areas: the environment, the (construction) industry, its own employees and the community. The past year’s performance shows once again that Vandersanden is on the right track towards CO2-neutrality by 2050.In recent years, Vandersanden has already taken huge strides in the field of sustainability, and time did not stand still in 2021 either. In its new report, Vandersanden provides an overview of its ambitions and concrete achievements of the past year. In 2021, Vandersanden was able to boast its first Great Place to Work certification in four countries, as well as ECO packaging with at least 30% recycled material and 80% less ink, which results in 400,000 kg less CO2 each year. In addition, Vandersanden also took further steps in the development of CO2-neutral bricks, the competence development of its employees was broadened, and the brick manufacturer opened a new showroom in Northern France and in Tolkamer (NL). As a true community builder, in 2021, Vandersanden also invested EUR 500,000 in charities at home and abroad. “Collective Well-being is definitely not window dressing”Whilst it is Vandersanden’s second Collective Well-being report, it is CEO Rudi Peeters’ first time to co-launch the report. For him, Collective Well-being was a deciding factor in joining Vandersanden: “In my first months at Vandersanden, I saw that Collective Well-being is definitely not window dressing. I immediately noticed that Collective Well-being truly is in the company’s DNA. It is present throughout the organisation, at all levels, among all employees,” says Rudi Peeters, CEO of Vandersanden. “Vandersanden has made tremendous efforts to become greener and more sustainable in recent years. I want to continue that approach. This ranges from baking CO2-neutral bricks to a fully electric fleet, including forklifts.”This year, Vandersanden highlights the various aspects of its ‘Collective Well-being’: for the environment, in the industry, at work and for the community. In addition to the initiatives taken and achievements made, special attention is also paid to the history of Collective Well-being, and how the concept itself, as well as the operations, have evolved from a deep-rooted conviction to a strategic priority. In addition, a separate chapter is devoted to training & coaching in the workplace and the report places particular emphasis on collaboration with partners in all areas of Collective Well-being. For example, several pages of the report are devoted to a double interview with NGO Cunina and Vandersanden.   Eddy Deconinck, Collective Well-being Director at Vandersanden comments: “It is thanks to the commitment of all our 800 colleagues and partners that Vandersanden can call itself a leader in Collective Well-being and sustainability. The shared belief in climate improvement and energy efficiency motivates us to keep raising the bar in our industry and, of course, the community to which we belong. Thanks to this broad view, Vandersanden is a leader in Collective Well-being today.”The full sustainability report and more information about Collective Well-being at Vandersanden can be found on the link below: 

TECHNAL GLAZING SYSTEMS PROTECT THE 47TH G7 SUMMIT VENUE FROM COASTAL STORMSThe stunning Carbis Bay Hotel in Cornwall, venue for the 47th G7 Summit, had a host of tried and tested TECHNAL glazing and curtain walling systems installed, all specified for their outstanding weather performance.Exeter-based Harmony Architectural Aluminium, a specialist glazing fabricator and contractor well experienced in helping develop high-end properties around the windswept coasts of Devon and Cornwall, designed and delivered the Dualframe 75 Si, Elegance 52 curtain walling, Crown Sliding Folding doors and other products in a £400K contract for the Carbis Bay Hotel. Having employed TECHNAL systems on projects from Bristol down to Cornwall for more than three decades, Harmony proposed a package of systems including the Dualframe 75 Si doors and windows to create eight beachfront lodges and a three-storey wedding venue at the landmark destination.  The Carbis Bay lodges and beautiful wedding venue are a stand-out project for us: not just because of the challenges to the location, literally right next to the sea, but because it also demonstrates TECHNAL’s value as a one-stop shop. We have the range of systems to fulfil any contract from volume housing through to the ‘Grand Designs’ type properties and commercial work.For locations such as this, systems like Dualframe, C160 Sliders and Crown Sliding Folding doors work at the scale to maximise the views while delivering the necessary resistance to wind, air and water.The fabricator, which operates a 20,000 square feet facility at Pinhoe, put forward the TECHNAL systems for the prestige project, primarily on the basis of their excellent weather performance and resistance to the aggressive marine environment. While all the systems offer a stylish appearance, the Crown Sliding Folding and C160 Lift and Slide doorsets also provided the benefit of permitting taller than normal opening heights.We were one of three companies invited to meet the owner of the Carbis Bay Hotel, Steve Baker, and his project manager, Mark Senton, following a recommendation from one of our clients in Cornwall.  We then put forward the Dualframe and other TECHNAL products on the basis of the level of support, as well as performance, the manufacturer offers.  I have been using TECHNAL systems since 1989 for contracts across the South West including schools, hospitals and other PFI projects.Harmony AA Construction of the MUV (Multi Utility Venue) building and the eight lodges was split into two phases, but ended up running concurrently: which increased the logistical challenge as the hotel remained open through the year-long period of works – including for weddings on the beach.  The fact that the buildings are right down at the level of the beach inevitably increases the glazing systems’ exposure to salt spray as well as driving rain when the weather is bad, so we relied on TECHNAL’s technical department to supply all of the relevant testing certificates to verify the corrosion resistance, wind pressure ratings and other specification requirements. There were a lot of meetings regarding this project, while deliveries to our Pinhoe plant near Exeter were kept up throughout.Harmony AAHarmony’s package for the Carbis Bay project included the design, manufacture and installation of 29 sets of two or three panel C160 Sliders: all 2700mm high, installed in the seaward facing elevations of the eight luxury lodges. Accommodating up to eight people, these also feature Dualframe 75 Si entrance screens, into which the client installed timber doors.The ground floor to the MUV building is given over to three retail units, the entrance to each of which is formed of a Crown Sliding Folding doorset standing 2600mm high. On the floor above are guest bedrooms with seven sets of 2800mm tall C160 Sliders, as well as Dualframe residential doors, giving access onto the balconies.The top floor of the venue then offers panoramic views of the bay through a series of Elegance 52 screens, with automatic opening, top-hung vents providing easily controllable ventilation while the glazing throughout is SKN 176 solar control. The curtain walling includes a run that is faceted to follow the curve of the building’s end wall, while more C160 Sliders are set behind ‘Juliette’ balconies to open out onto the stunning seascape view.Stylish in design while offering multiple opening configurations, the TECHNAL Dualframe 75 Si range is proving very popular across many sectors, including social housing and education. Not only does the uniquely designed polyamide break help it offer U-values down to 0.9 W/m2K, but Dualframe was the first aluminium system to achieve an A++ Window Energy Rating with its tilt before turn window. Additionally, PAS 24 has been achieved on every style including tilt-before-turn and pivot. Andy Hart, Account Manager at TECHNAL

We visited David and his family in Essex, UK, who recently completed a rear kitchen and dining extension that began in June 2021 and was completed in October.   One of their main goals was to include natural light and ventilation in the design by using opening rooflights.  Tell us more about your home and why you decided to renovate. The family fell in love with the house because at the time they thought it had all of the space they needed.  'It was really obvious when we first moved into the house that we didn't have a joint space where all of us could be together, cooking and eating, playing or watching TV. That's when we said; 'okay, we need to do this project.' Before the family completed the renovation, a lot of their time was spent in individual rooms. Therefore, they made a decision to create a joined-together family space, they felt essential for creating memories and bonding with one another.  'We wanted to make sure we had a rooflight over the kitchen to create light in that space and make sure we had enough light to the existing part of the house.'  Adding a rooflight to your kitchen can be a great way to bring in more natural light and improve the overall ambiance of your home. Positioning and size of the rooflight, are important for including light in harder-to-reach areas, such as an existing part of your home. Make sure to take the necessary precautions and consider all the factors involved in such a project. Check out our top tips on what to consider when renovating or extending.  How important was the option of having bespoke rooflight design for you? 'The importance of bespoke design was really around size, and what size we needed for the space. When we first started looking around for skylights, they were often a lot smaller than we needed. What we found with Vario by VELUX is essentially, they took that problem away.' We had options, we could have chosen different colours, and different styles of glass, but we were able to choose something that matched the rest of the living space, as well as being functional.' 'The reason we went for two rectangular rooflights was really to fit in with the design of the rest of the extension. What I like about the VELUX Windows is that internally we really do just see that flat glass at the top and it finishes it off really nicely.' It's great that you had the option to choose different colours and styles of glass for your rooflights. By matching the rooflights with the rest of your living space, you have created a cohesive and harmonious design that enhances your home’s overall look and feel.   Why opening rooflights? 'The coolest thing about these rooflights is that they can open.' 'We decided to invest in large windows, one of the things we wanted to do is get the most out of them. Having the automatic opening, meant that we can open and close the windows to keep the air quality.' VELUX Active can add a modern touch to your home and can increase its energy efficiency by reducing the need for air conditioning or heating. We are glad to hear that the decision was made to optimise your indoor climate and invest in Vario by VELUX rooflights.  'One of my favourite moments to do with the rooflights, was when we first brought the children into the property, my son pointed out the rooflights and when we opened them, he was astounded!' 'Traditionally, this back part of the house was quite dark. So by coming out with an extension and having the rooflights put in above, it means we get more natural light earlier – quite often from very early in the morning.' The rectangular rooflights you chose to install sound like they fit perfectly with the design of the extension and provide a modern and clean look whilst making your space the place where family comes together. Natural light and ventilation is not only essential for our physical health, but also our emotional well-being. By having more natural light earlier in the morning, you can start your day in a better mood and with positive energy. How do you use your new extension now? 'I would say actually we spend 80 to 90% of our time now just in this room. The joy for us is sitting together and eating, whether that's at the breakfast bar or the dining table, having the kids playing along the side of the kitchen. We are delighted with the end result.' 'We are now seeing the benefits of what this means to us as a family and the wider family. Being able to host and have parties and social gatherings.’ 'Everything happens in this space now.' It's wonderful to hear that your home renovation project has transformed your living space and has made it a central gathering place for your family and friends. Hosting social gatherings and spending time with loved ones is an important aspect of life and it's great that your home now provides a comfortable and welcoming environment for those special moments. It's always a great feeling when a home renovation project meets or exceeds expectations, and it sounds like that is exactly what has happened in this case. Congratulations on your beautiful new space and we wish you very happy memories there! 

The refurbishment scheme at Buckley View in Smallbridge was completed in March 2022 and is one of a series of demonstrator projects that Rochdale Boroughwide Housing are completing.These projects are part of an ongoing approach to improve the energy efficiency of homes and reduce carbon emissions, helping to identify the best ways to meet Greater Manchester’s 2038 target to be carbon neutral.The scheme has seen 23 bungalows in Buckley View receive investment to help improve the energy efficiency of the homes and reduce carbon emissions using a whole-house, fabric first approach.The work carried out included replacing cavity wall and roof insulation, installing External Wall Insulation (EWI), upgrading ventilation and installing new windows and doors.We worked in close partnership with our approved installer Profac and provided a suitable EWI solution for the project and complementary finish. A brick slip finish was utilised, which was supplied in three colours to totally refresh the facades.The bungalows in Buckley View were totally transformed and will enjoy increased energy efficiency, improved thermal comfort, reduced fuel consumption for residents and, as a result, lower carbon emissions.Our ServiceK Systems prides itself on having an inspiring and effective solution for every style, and this project is just one example of how it provides the flexibility to fulfil any specific design criteria.We tailored the specification process for the project based on the set and very specific requirements of Rochdale Boroughwide Housing and its properties, and every single request / objective of the client was not only met but exceeded in the refurbishment.The design and delivery of the refurbishment not only received 100% satisfaction ratings from all parties involved, but has also gained external recognition for its excellence and already been shortlisted for three prestigious industry awards:Large Scale Project of the Year at the North West Energy Efficiency AwardsSustainability Project of the Year at the Aico HomeLink Community Awards 2022Best Retrofit Initiative at the Northern Housing AwardsOverall, an outstanding and successful refurbishment by our team that has given Buckley View in the North West a new lease of life.Ryan Robson at Rochdale Boroughwide Housing, said:“We are delighted and incredibly proud to have worked on the refurb project at Buckley View which has been recognised with three award nominations so far. These nominations are a testament to the great partnership approach by all involved parties, the highest levels of construction quality showcased throughout, and the exceptional performance outcomes of the entire project, for the housing residents, housing provider and for the wider area.”Technical Project DetailsThe external façade and sheathing boards on the existing, poorly insulated timber frame structures were removed. The sheathing boards were replaced with A1 rated carrier boards and the K Systems M, Mineral Wool Insulation System was specified.This system not only generates exceptional thermal performance and provides high levels of fire resistance (A2-s1, d0), but also boasts exceptional environmental qualities – by choosing it, we not only demonstrate our innate understanding of best-suited solutions but our dedication to sustainable working.The bespoke system specified for Buckley View was designed using 110mm non-combustible mineral wool insulation to meet the desired u-value of 0.20W/m2K, improved from 0.43W/m2K. This meant homes were more energy efficient, warmer, and less expensive to heat – a major bonus given the current cost of living crisis.For the finish, we specified a unique finish of VBriQ+ clay brick slips. This cost-effective, lightweight traditional clay brick slip system replicates traditional brick construction on low-rise buildings like the Buckley View bungalows.Our unique and innovative VBriQ+ clay brick slip finish was specified due to its robust, durable characteristics and wide range of colours. The brick slips were supplied in three colours, which totally transformed the facades aesthetically and with their low maintenance and element resistance qualities, will ensure the homes avoid cracking and maintain their appearance over time.At K Systems we are confident that we have the inspiring solution for every style, and this project is just one example of how we provide the flexibility to fulfil any specific design criteria.We tailored the specification process for the project based on the requirements of Rochdale Boroughwide Housing and their properties. Bespoke technical detailing included use of pistol brick slips around window reveals with a soldier course detail specified above window heads to create a contrasting aesthetic feature to the main walls. A band of silicone thincoat render was added as a design feature around the doors– yet again showcasing K Systems’ unrivalled attention to detail.