"wood"

A 200 sqm, highly energy-efficient new build project in a remote location in the Highlands of Scotland. Built using sustainable materials, and with the timber frame sourced locally and wood fibre insulation used alongside SuperFOIL Insulation throughout. Powered throughout the year using solar PV and battery storage.Looking to increase the thermal resistance of the building envelope in order to reduce energy usage. With the building using an air source heat pump and underfloor heating, they wanted to make sure that any heat loss was minimised and it was vital that they chose the correct insulation for the walls and roof.Solution: SuperFOIL SF19+ is a multifoil product with a total of 11 layers, made of wadding, aluminium coated PET layers and Foil Laminated Outer Layers. At only 40mm thick and providing an R-value of 2.14 when used in a roof, SF19 can be used on its own or in combination with other types of insulation. A fully flexible product that provides a vapour control layer as well as acting as a radiant barrier.

THE PROJECTThe Dallston Junction project features two banks of Stainless Steel 2 mailboxes that have been recessed into the wall to minimise the amount of room taken up by the mailboxes in the area of installation. This particular project required the mailboxes to be recessed into the wall to ensure that the project met building regulations in a main walkway through the project.The banks of mailboxes feature a high-quality Sapele Surround which was provided by ourselves with the mailboxes. The Sapele surround was specified by the client and we worked with a specialist joiner who created this surround. The wood is also used in a central storage area where items can be placed when depositing mail into the boxes (as shown in the photographs), or notices can be used by the management for residents to read etc.The Stainless Steel 2 mailbox both accepts and allows for retrieval of mail at the front of the product. This particular project uses engraved mailboxes that have been infilled with a Jet Black (RAL 9005) contrasting colour for the residents and postal workers to easily identify specific mailboxes.

New HQ in Leeds...The national broadcaster first announced it would be opening a new HQ in Leeds in 2019. Almost two years on, around 200 members of staff are beginning to settle into their new home at the Majestic in Leeds city centre.Soundis were contracted to supply & install approximately 2,050 sq m2 of seamless acoustic spray plaster to the industrial style ceilings.Our client opted for the rough texture Absorb-R GypLine VisibleAcoustic Spray Plaster System 35mm thick. We installed the plaster to the surface following the contours of the profiled metal deck, providing a Class A Sound Absorption.The carbon-neutral Absorb-R GypLine visible acoustic spray is a high-quality and environmentally friendly acoustic spray that absorbs unwanted noise and can be used in a wide range of environments.The Absorb-R GypLine visible is a combination of recycled paper, wood adhesive, water and professional installation work. The tubular structure of the cellulosic fibres enables effective reverberation absorption.

Pura® NFC by Trespa as connecting factor between two building volumesIn close cooperation with Guus Vedder (2•1 Architecten), architect Hendrik Jan van der Valk (Van der Valk Woudst ra) has designed a modern villa, consisting of two main volumes. The villa was for a private client and is located in a rural village in the Veluwe region. One volume is used as living/ dining room and kitchen, while the bedrooms, bathrooms, playroom and technical area are located in the other.The client had a number of explicit requirements for the design of the villa which is located on a large plot in a wooded area. In addition to various aesthetic aspects, the villa had to be sustainable and energy neutral. The facades, roofs and floors were therefore very well insulated and of airtight construction. All window frames have aluminium profiles with optimum insulation and have triple glazing. The whole house is equipped with domotics and all installations are powered by the solar panels that were fitted; there is therefore no need for a gas connection.

One of the most iconic buildings in central London.The building has been reborn hotel and residential complex for highflyers in the financial services sector. Woods Bagot’s scheme for 10 Trinity Square, nicknamed ‘the whirlpool’ after the glass canopy at its centre.10 Trinity Square was commissioned by the Port of London Authority in 1911 through an architectural competition won by Edwin Cooper. Completion of Cooper’s Beaux Arts design was delayed by the First World War (it was finished in 1922).Many of the original interior features were conserved while incorporating the servicing requirements of a modern hotel. As such, plaster ceilings, such as those situated in the south wing of the second floor, are being maintained and the original air vents may be used in the new HVAC strategy.For this development, Selo used the Una doors which are the solution for timber leaf risers. Una utilises a timber door leaf with a concealed metal frame. Made to suit custom sizes, provided as a flat-packed kit prepared for all ironmongery.

The University launched ambitious new plans for a £40 million state-of-the-art Collaborative Teaching Laboratory (CTL) to facilitate the teaching of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects.Our work for the project included the supply of approximately 684m2 of Soundis Absorb-R timber wall panels. The client opted for a combination of 8/3m Absorb-R WoodTec Grooved and Soundis Absorb-R WooTec Perforated 2/2/0.5 Perforated panels. This combination of the two styles creates a stylish yet elegant finish.Black panels were chosen for the walls and white panels for the railing areas, the contrast of the colours further promoting that modern style for the university.The old choice between Engineering-led functionality, and beautiful design not longer applies. Cutting-edge new technologies allow solid wood panels and multi-layer panels to be micro perforated to serve as highly effective sound absorbing cladding. Panel textures can also be tailored to serve project requirements.

The Anchor Line Aparthotel, formerly home to the Anchor Line Shipping Company, features EGGER Feelwood materials throughout.A full refurbishment of the upper floors of this Art Deco building has created a luxurious aparthotel. A smoky timber finish was required, and EGGER’s woodgrain decor H3406 ST38 Anthracite Mountain Larch, from the popular Feelwood range, met this brief perfectly.The decor was used to create kitchen doors and end panels, wardrobes, bookcases, and television units. The synchronised deep texture provides a striking surface that is as close as you can get to real wood.Designed by ICA and fabricated by Workspace, the chosen finish has helped to create a relaxing and contemporary interior.Lesley Annison of ICA said, “We frequently specify EGGER products throughout our hotel industry projects as there is always great availability and an extensive variety of products and finishes. We were able to select an EGGER decor for this project that provided our client with the exact look and finish they required.”

Artform Urban were approached by Illman Young Landscape Design in 2018 to discuss a range of design led street furniture elements including seating and litter bins to a brand new service station located at junction 1 of the M6 in Rugby, planned to open in 2021. The seating product selected was the Multiplicity Bench, a popular product featuring a cast aluminium leg frame with hardwood seat.The Box Wood Litter Bin featuring a Triangular Ashtray fixture was also supplied. This incredibly popular and versatile waste disposal unit can be customised with 4 different variations of door style. The Rugby Moto services opted for the hardwood timber slats version which complements the surrounding architecture and street furniture.The new MOTO services opened its doors to motorists in April 2021, the build will create 120 jobs and cost investment of £40 million. It is the UK's flagship electric vehicle charging motorway services, offering 24 rapid-charging points.

The Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics is the astronomical research centre of The University of Manchester. The centre is a world leader in radio astronomy-related research and technology development.Rough textured spray plaster...Our brief was to create a moon like surface ceiling that not only looked realistic, but most importantly to absorb sound and background noise from within the centre.We installed the Absorb-R Gypline Visible Acoustic Spray Plaster to the surface following the contours of the profiled metal deck, providing a Class A Sound Absorption.Absorb-R Gypline Visible Acoustic Spray Plasteris an extremely flexible seamless sound absorption system. The carbon-neutral Absorb-R GypLine visible acoustic spray is a high-quality and environmentally friendly acoustic spray that absorbs unwanted noise and can be used in a wide range of environments.The Absorb-R GypLine visible is a combination of recycled paper, wood adhesive, water and professional installation work. The tubular structure of the cellulosic fibres enables effective reverberation absorption.

Creating better education environments Primary School De Verwondering is a fully bio-based school building and the first example of a new generation of bio-based school buildings that recognizes and harnesses nature's powerful effcet on learning.The beautiful wooden building - which runs on circular energy - has a vegetation roof with chickens, green facades and remarkably large windows. The primary school recently won the 2021 Golden Frog award for sustainable construction in the Netherlands.The interior and exterior of the school have a positive influence on the well-being and performance of the pupils. The environment outside blends with the natural elements of the building, such as wood and bamboo, while inside the interior architect chose a CO2 neutral (cradle to gate) Marmoleum floor covering. Marmoleum Cocoa is made of natural and renewable raw materials with the addition of a waste product from the cocoa industry and, in that respect, it fits the building perfectly. Marmoleum is one of the flooring industry's most beautiful and also oldest bio-based products.

Yaasa Ltd. has established itself as a leading force in the online sale of ergonomically adjustable office furniture. With the expansion of its headquarters in Lannach, the company is creating not only space for innovation and product development but also new, accessible workplaces for up to 50 employees. The building, which was constructed in a strict economical manner, meets the European targets for a “Nearly Zero Emission Building". Thus, Yaasa demonstrates its commitment to sustainability and, with its own showroom, offers customers the opportunity to experience products firsthand. Lindner played a key role in the sustainable interior fit-out of the new company building: By using raised floors made from recycled wood panels, Lindner demonstrates how resource conservation and sustainability in the construction industry can also be put into practice. The wooden floors have the same physical and technical properties as a new flooring system – without compromising the special quality of the working environment. The texture of the wooden floor contributes to a pleasant atmosphere and completes the overall result of homely workspaces.

Resilient 250 was installed beneath engineered wood flooring in the kitchen, landing and living room, covering approximately 75m². These spaces were located above bedrooms, and it was therefore essential to minimize sound transmission into areas where people would be sleeping. As Resilient 250 is a high performing acoustic underlay, this provided excellent impact performance in excess of UK sound insulation regulations. Benefits of Resilient 250 • Extremely fitter friendly • Clean, quick and cost effective installation • Less subfloor preparation required – an important factor given the client required minimal disruption • Provides lasting stability and comfort over time Made of durable sponge rubber, it is engineered to provide long lasting performance without deterioration. Resilient 250 provides sound improvement of 19 dB ΔLw, creating a quieter, more comfortable environment for the whole household. Resilient 250 is also an exceptionally ‘fitter friendly’ product, supplied in 10m² rolls for easy handling and distribution on site

Fire Retardant aluminium cladding that looks like real timber. This system of real timber that wraps aluminium cladding has been around for 30 years; its not a new phenomenon, in some practices, it’s the norm.Exceptional Architecture with contrasting aluminium wood cladding against a striking white stucco facade. Incredible detailing and accurate installation has made this private residence an iconic statement. Real timber veneer over aluminium results in a contemporary timber cladding, its not an effect, its not plastic… its timber.Aluminium cladding that looks like real timber.Set over three floors and a basement, beautiful landscaped surrounds and many balcony terraces make this dwelling the envy of other property owners. The cladding by Technowood ® has been used to good effect for the wall cladding, soffit board arrangement and also the fascias. This system has many options for start and stop beads with alternatives for reveals and corner detail. The design of these projects is only limited by the designer.Pergola design and Brise Soleilby Technowood®As Technowood have been manufacturing since the 1980’s they are well versed in many different profiles and systems in aluminium covered in real wood. Pergolas that span with a clear run up to 12.5 metres, louvres and Brise Soleil that match. We can create a complete system in timber that looks the same, made at the same time by the same hands… the design can also incorporate powder coated or anodized aluminium elements; supplied at the same time. These are also made in the same manufacturing process.Cladding illumination Up lighting, down lighting or washing warm white illumination across the facade of cladding looks beautiful. Further, this offers a welcome from the building during the darker hours, makes your home more inviting, it also looks stylish. It’s a simple effect to achieve and doesn’t cost a lot in comparison to other illuminated elements of the project.Technowood aluminium timber claddingThe simple system is an inclusive platform of cladding. It starts with a simple L shape bracket, a long length of supporting section T shape (like a timber batten); the cladding directly fixes to it. Think rain screen, when you are designing and you won’t go far wrong. Technowood has been here for 30 years and it’s here to stay. Certified FR A2, FSC and certified for Environmental Product Declaration, its also warranted for 20 years.

IssueWavendon Community Hub has been created and designed to provide local residents with a place to meet and take part in physical and social activities. In keeping with surrounding properties, Wavendon Community Hub is constructed in red/buff brick, with pitched tiled roofs. The building comprises two separate halves: a community side with a vaulted hall space and a separate, large multi-purpose area with changing facilities. The floors needed to perform for different needs and uses, providing robust durability, safety from slips, but still provide welcoming good looks.ApproachThe project was designed by W E Architecture Ltd and the build was completed by Borras Construction Ltd, with flooring installed throughout by HC Coverings Ltd, using Mapei floor preparation products.SolutionResilient flooring was specified throughout the centre and installed over underfloor heating. Designs specified throughout the 500 square metre area included Altro Wood in the communal areas, Altro Aquarius in the toilets, showers and changing rooms and Altro Walkway 20 in corridors and back-of-house areas.

An existing Mews dating back to the 1860’s in close proximity to the Victoria and Albert Museum. The highly sensitive nature of this site required NLA to work closely throughout the planning and construction phases with LBKC to make sure the ambitious yet sympathetic design, bespoke to the client’s requirements was realised. In addition to a full refurbishment, complete with new basement, reworked layout and contemporary interior design, a double height atrium was introduced at the heart of the dwelling allowing natural daylight to permeate throughout each individual level whilst providing a secluded garden sanctuary away from the bustling streets of London.For this refurbishment, our Una was used which are the solution for timber leaf risers. Una utilises a timber door leaf with a concealed metal frame. Made to suit custom sizes, provided as a flat-packed kit prepared for all ironmongery. The wood door leaf comes with hinge cut-outs and can be primed for on-site finishing or pre-finished in our factory. Choose from non-fire rated or fire rated to E30 or E60.

A charming, contemporary style private villa with a swimming-pool in Gobelsbach in Germany was designed to create a large living solution surrounded by nature.Atlas Concorde outdoor floors of the Trust LASTRA 20mm collection give a touch of elegance to the outdoor spaces of the house. The outdoor flooring of the terrace of the villa mirrors, with harmony, the naturalness of the surrounding environment. The wood-look porcelain tiles have a rich and detailed surface that conjures up images of nature that is lavish and intriguing. The garden and the relaxation area develops into a sought-after outdoor space where even the smallest of details have been cared for, thanks to the presence of a large swimming-pool with shower and an outdoor living area. The stone-look porcelain tiles are the protagonists of the patios surrounded by the green facing the rooms of the house. The outdoor floors covered with Trust LASTRA in 20mm thickness and in size 45x90 permeates into the space with a surface featuring excellent technical performance, is safe, anti-slip and resistant to adverse weather conditions. The collection also includes numerous trim tiles that are suitable to clad swimming-pool edges, pathways and steps guaranteeing a coordinated project.

The hospitality industry has been hit hard by the pandemic as visitors, for obvious reasons, have been conspicuous by their absence. Hotel Savoy in Luleå took advantage of the situation by completely renovating the hotel’s restaurant with new surfaces, design and furnishings.The old brick wall in the interior of the restaurant had taken its toll. In order to find a new material that would fit in, they looked for a wooden panel that could also contribute to a better atmosphere in the form of an acoustic absorbing solution. But finding such a product that would also meet the fire requirements of the premises was not the easiest thing to do.We at Gustafs received the request at the same time as we were working on the development of our new product, Lamellow+. In short, the Lamellow panels delivered to the Hotel Savoy in Luleå became a pilot project for the product. The panels installed in the restaurant are made of American Oak wood veneer with a grey gypsum core and Wool grey acoustic felt – a combination that feels natural and minimises the contrasts in the product. The panel was also approved by the fire engineers working on the project, thanks to the natural fire protection provided by the reinforced fibreboard.

Brett Landscaping, a leading provider of innovative landscaping solutions, partnered with Darcliffe Homes on the Stoneham Park housebuilding project in Reading. Stoneham Park is a prestigious development perfectly located on the Western edge of Reading, offering residents unparalleled access to both urban conveniences and scenic countryside. With beautifully landscaped grounds and a variety of residential options, Stoneham Park aimed to provide a desirable living environment. Brett Landscaping’s role in the project was to supply permeable paving, specifically their Alpha Flow range in Autumn Gold and Brindle colours, along with Chaucer paving slabs in Buff and High Kerb in Autumn Gold to complement the paving. The Stoneham Park project commenced in November 2022 and is scheduled for completion in December 2023. The development encompasses a diverse selection of 1 & 2 bedroom apartments, as well as 2, 3, 4, or 5 bedroom houses, catering to a wide range of potential residents. The project aimed to create a harmonious blend of urban and rural elements, with a picturesque backdrop of open fields, views of Sulham Woods, and convenient access to Reading’s amenities.

Edgingtons Architects were appointed by the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead to design and deliver a new build sixth form building for Windsor Girls School. The external detailing of the brickwork takes inspiration from a mature oak tree that sits in close proximity to the building, ground floor representing the tree trunk and first floor the texture of the branches and leaves. Internally the building follows a simple layout with a neutral palette of cream, grey and light wood finishes.The ironmongery brief was to specify a simple, robust and affordable ironmongery scheme that would stand up to the typical heavy use of an education setting while ensuring the products were chosen to ensure a long life span. The scheme centres around our Vieler 522 safety lever handle and matching straight pull handle finished in stainless steel. We also supplied all door signage including stainless steel and black door discs denoting room numbers. The simple shape and finish of the ironmongery compliments the project aesthetics beautifully, creating the perfect educational space.Photography: Neil Kenyon

Tucked away on the outskirts of Brigg, Lincolnshire, Scawby Brook is a carbon neutral, sustainable house that has been sensitively created for modern living and to complement the surrounding wooded setting. The home has featured on self-build TV show, Grand Designs.Designed by local architect Kate Kelly, the connection of the dwelling with nature was a key focus of the client's brief with the house featuring an abundance of glazing to refl­ect the natural environment and provide the best possible views of the rural landscape.A local project manager, Mike Hill was employed to deliver the project and source materials and labour from the local area. Mike specified Kestrel Aluminium window and door systems to provide a complete glazing solution for the project based on previous experience and the knowledge that this would oer the best solution in terms of the quality and budget demanded by the client.The multiple windows are a mixture of fixed or opening vents, with multi-point espagnolette locking PAS24 compliant security. Used in conjunction with low U-value double-glazed units achieving a U-Value of 1.2 W/m2K they ensure the building is safe, secure and energy efficient.

Nestled in the natural beauty of northern Athens, “Adventure Farm Forest” is an inspiring outdoor playground that beckons families from all corners to come together and have fun!Themed playground in Athens, GreeceDesigned with a harmonious blend between nature's wonderland and creative play activities, it will surely excite imaginations while thrilling your little adventurers. Its centerpiece attraction – Polka - draws many children seeking thrills amidst elastic tiles covering its entire area. For younger kids, there are multiple interactive games such as Mole's Wood adventure or Little House for infants plus several benches for tired parents waiting nearby. A refreshing marble fountain supplies cool water under sunny Grecian skies topped off by a cozy municipal coffee shop only steps away when you need refueling after long hours of family bonding moments within this special place - truly a one-of-a-kind spot in Greece!The project was executed by our local channel partner Intec S.A. in 2012.

Sonixx Rubber Crumb Cradles were installed to create a level subfloor system. The cradles were loose laid, laser levelled and a WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) Decking was installed on top.The size of the project was 250m2 and cradles were easily adjusted to achieve a finished height of 120mm. The Sonixx cradles are adaptive, eco friendly and used extensively in new build, refurbishment and conversion projects. They facilitate rapid and easy levelling of uneven subfloors on-site with the use of cradle packers and base packers. The Sonixx Rubber Crumb Cradles offer fast installation and exceptional long lasting performance. Manufactured using recycled rubber crumb, these cradles, base packers and cradle packers can be used to create a perfectly level subfloor, over which decking systems can be installed. All of the rubber crumb used in the cradles, base packers and cradle packers is made from used vehicle tyres, ensuring that all materials are 100% recycled. The components are eco-friendly, durable and come with a 10-year guarantee when used in outdoor applications

GEC Anderson stainless steel worktops were included in a recent Cornwall kitchen refurbishment, designed and installed by George Robinson Kitchens who produce hand crafted, bespoke kitchens, near Penzance. For homeowners, Mr. & Mrs. Bull, the choice of materials was pivotal to the design of their home kitchen, particularly, as their long-term plan is to use the space as a cookery school. Stainless steel was therefore a key element and was chosen not only for its visual properties and low lifetime cost but also for its ability to withstand heavy usage, to be heat resistant and to remain germ-free. From a visual perspective, the work surfaces make up a significant proportion of the colour and texture in the room. In this Georgian property in Cornwall, the materials and textures chosen make for an eclectic yet functional space. The inherent durability and unsurpassed hygienic properties of the brushed stainless steel elements from GEC Anderson will make it perform extremely well as a professional kitchen. The Tulip wood and Oak wood with its different painted finishes together with the white Silestone quartz top on the central island top provides a striking contrast to the stainless steel in one corner, giving a light and pleasant, contemporary, feel.The L-shaped brushed satin stainless steel worktop and integral sink is made to measure and benefits from being manufactured in one continuous piece thus maximising the use of space in the corner in which it is situated. Furthermore, with no joins at the sink bowl, edges and upstands, the surface remains germ free as well as being free of visual clutter and noise. One side of the L-shape includes a generously sized (500x400mm) single bowl and draining area, whilst the other, provides useful and practical work surface. A 100mm high, integral, back upstand was also specified, providing a neat, practical and watertight junction to walls.Owner Dr Matt Bull says, “My wife and I liked the toughness of the stainless steel and the fact that it can take hot and cold, doesn't stain, reflects light and provides an hygienic surface that is easy to clean. Stainless steel also gains character as it ages, where many surfaces will deteriorate, so that’s a real bonus.” He added, “We struggled to find anyone locally who could manufacture the stainless steel elements of the kitchen to a sufficiently high standard. The neatness of the welding and the configuration of the shape, drainer recess etc. were key to what GEC Anderson could offer.”GEC Anderson stainless steel worktops are supplied fully sound deadened, plastic protected 

Among many similar new-build projects completed or underway across the country, non-combustible Rockpanel is providing stunning facades for this eye-catching, contemporary urban living in Bracknell, Berkshire, while meeting the stringent regulations regarding fire-safety in high-rise residential structures.Consisting of 242 apartments divided across two distinct angular blocks of up to 11 storeys, this residential scheme promotes itself as heralding a new era in luxury living for the region. The wedge shaped blocks are placed at angles to create a broad, elegant thoroughfare where seating invites residents and others to linger and enjoy the landscaped surroundings. Stepped elevations allow for generous terraces to one block while the acute angle formed on another results in striking feature balconies. The mix of sleek white render contrasts well with the Rockpanel Woods facades which add a natural, organic warmth. Meeting challenges to create a landmark development The Building Design Group were architects for the project. With offices in Birmingham and Tamworth, BDG has evolved from its inception more than 45 years ago, in to a dynamic, forward thinking practice. Describing the development, they said, “BDG were appointed following a successful planning process to develop this project further to tender stage and beyond. The site itself presented numerous challenges in terms both of access and existing constraints located above and below ground. However, we believe we succeeded in progressing the technical design to the extent that our client's aspirations could be met, both in terms of cost and the desire to establish a landmark development for the future.”Vascroft Contractors Ltd were main contractors for the development. The London-based firm has grown from its founding in the 1970 by two brothers, into a thriving concern made up of four divisions working on projects across all major building sectors. Around 2500sqm of facades were installed at Grand Exchange, using a mix of Rockpanel Alder and Slate Oak surface designs from the manufacturer’s super realistic Woods range, along with RAL 2010 colour-matched deep orange accent panels. Versatile, resilient and sustainable design freedom Lightweight and highly versatile, and without the need for additional edge sealing, Rockpanel can be curved, perforated, engraved or routed, and will last for decades with minimal maintenance. Protect Plus further protects the panel surface from everyday wear and tear. The facades deliver outstanding performance characteristics which include fire safety, supreme durability, weather, temperature and UV. And when the time comes for a Rockpanel facade to be replaced, in fifty years or more, the removed panels can be recycled into new boards with no loss of quality. Versatile, resilient and sustainable design freedom Lightweight and highly versatile, and without the need for additional edge sealing, Rockpanel can be curved, perforated, engraved or routed, and will last for decades with minimal maintenance. Protect Plus further protects the panel surface from everyday wear and tear. The facades deliver outstanding performance characteristics which include fire safety, supreme durability, weather, temperature and UV. And when the time comes for a Rockpanel facade to be replaced, in fifty years or more, the removed panels can be recycled into new boards with no loss of quality. Stoneguard Managing Director, Nic Constantinou, spoke about the project, “Vascroft approached us early on in order to begin the design process and ensure the smooth delivery of panels throughout the build. The 11mm Rockpanel FX-Xtra System specified by the architect, with grooves at 300mm centres achieving the effect of wood planks perfectly, meeting the aesthetic requirement for the project, while offering the long-term performance and low maintenance advantages of Rockpanel. Although the majority of panels were cut off-site, the flexibility of Rockpanel meant the more complicated architectural features of the build could be cut to size on site easily. The lightweight nature of the material ensured it could be distributed swiftly around the complex shaped build.” The ultimate facade systemThe facades were fixed to a concrete frame with bespoke Protec SFS system infill, which Stoneguard design and manufacture themselves. The project also utilised FSI cavity barriers and ROCKWOOL Duo Slab® insulation, which offers great thermal and acoustic values and achieves European fire class A1. Combined with Rockpanel A2 and an aluminium or steel substructure it fulfils the most rigid fire safety requirements and is required in achieving A2-s1,d0 Euroclass rating to secure the ultimate protection and safety for the building’s users.Rockpanel facade panels and ROCKWOOL insulation products share common characteristics, including their inherent sustainability and non-combustibility, which is due to the naturally occurring and replenishing volcanic rock used in the manufacture of the stone wool that forms their core. Grand Exchange Building Manager, Adam Spiers, “I must commend the design team for their outstanding work on the facades of the building. The exterior looks stunning. The attention to detail and the architectural finesse are truly commendable. The residents are exceptionally pleased with both the building and its exterior. Their positive response reaffirms our belief that the Grand Exchange has not only met but exceeded expectations in terms of design and functionality.”Rockpanel offers specifiers design freedom, enabling virtually unlimited colour matching and an unrivalled range of surface design finishes, from the super-realistic natural Woods used at the Grand Exchange, through Metals and Stones collections to specialist ranges including unique, transformative Chameleon, which changes hue depending on the way light hits its surface and the angle of view. 

Park House surgery in Cannock is an NHS facility serving the local community. Offering a wide range of health services, it is a busy centre with constant pressure on room space.Working with Horsley Huber Architects and contractors, Three Sixty Commercial Interiors, Style was specified to install two moveable walls to enable the surgery to divide its office space into separate rooms, as and when required.The Dorma Hüppe Variflex moveable walls, which are light and smooth to operate, allow staff to quickly reconfigure the office space, depending on the number of people involved and activities taking place.Delivering an impressive 55dB acoustic barrier, staff can work, provide client consultations, host meetings, or run training sessions either side of the walls, completely undisturbed.At Park House surgery an oak finish was added to the panels, however the individual surface finishes are almost unlimited - from genuine wood veneers to decor surfaces.Style is the exclusive UK partner to Dorma Hüppe, Skyfold and SWG and offers an extensive range of moveable, folding and partitioning walls with manual, semi-automatic or fully automatic operation suitable for all requirements and budgets.

Designed by architects from Qatar, this complex villa has a very different design from the usual house models; Clean and angular forms which are broken up with massive section of timber structures. These structures are not ordinarily large section of timber. They are created in house at Technowood and serve as a “reduced timber option”. Furthermore, with only using 2% when compared to using sold timber for the same project.Stone, metals and glass are the main texture of the design. These white tones of concrete structured against panels of natural timber, it’s most eye-catching feature. Located in Dohada, one of the most modern cities of Qatar, this futuristic house is also accompanied by the tranquil nature of the pool and the wooden sunbathing areas surrounding the secluded exterior.When working with designs for projects, Technowood allows the Architect to think big and realise big at the same time. Unsupported beams of this natural material can span up to 12 metres unsupported… imagine this section in a hard wood, the weight would be tonnes in comparison to the lightweight Technowood option.Credits and Further informationLocationDohada, QatarMaterialsCantilevered Bris Soleil, solid forms and cladding in TechnowoodProjectPrivate Villa

Maggie’s Centre’s provide free practical, emotional and socialsupport to people with cancer, and their family and friends.Founded upon Maggie Keswick Jencks’ view that people shouldnot “lose the joy of living in the fear of dying”, each Maggie’sCentre is designed to alleviate the clinical and dispirited feel ofhospital environments, while enabling patients to feel empoweredand comfortable.Architects dRMM, chose to use tulipwood CLT for the positiveinfluence the material has on people and for its beauty, strength,and warmth. With research suggesting wooden structures canhelp lower blood pressure and pulse rates, the Wood HousingHumanity Report found that the material has more health andwellbeing benefitsthan any other.Visiting the Allgood showroom in London, dRMM were introducedto the Holt range, designed by Alex Mowat. With an elegant supercircular shape, the Holt range is handcrafted from European oakand provides the optimum grip for users.Incorporating Holt L shape lever handles, WC turns, coat hooks,doorstops and toilet roll holders as well as disabled toiletfurniture, Maggie’s Centre in Oldham has created a thoughtfulenvironment for its users.

Members-only club in London’s Covent Garden, The Conduit Workspace focuses on sustainability and ethical hospitality, encouraging creativity and collaboration.Featuring relaxed working and dining spaces as well as event space, a library, and rooftop bar and restaurant, it spans across six floors offering everything needed to connect its members.The brand new rooftop terrace was created in partnership with the House of Champagne, Ruinart, with the goal to place nature at the heart. The rooftop features plants chosen specifically for pollination as well as upcycled and recycled furniture and art.To complete the rooftop extension, designer, Alice Crispi, approached us after seeing our RailRoad seating range - she wanted a continuous wavy modular solution that would also accommodate large planter pots within the curved sections. A 15m RailRoad Delta seat with a continuous backrest was delivered in modules making it easily transported to the roof terrace. A UVP protective coating in teak was also applied over the timber slats to maintain the wood’s colouration.Surrounded by greenery, members can relax and enjoy stunning views across London from the rooftop terrace.

The recent refurbishment of 4 Chiswell Street by Ben Adams Architects includes Armourcoat’s Istria polished plaster wall finish. Situated close to the historic Bunhill cricket ground in Islington, this once tired office building has been re-imagined as a modern and open workspace.Entering through an impressive new façade and front entrance, the architect’s design includes a double height reception space bathed in natural light. A sculpturally fluted wall finished in Istria polished plaster and custom terrazzo floor continue a circular motif repeated throughout the design. With exposed services and stylish use of concrete colours, the structure has been transformed into a contemporary and relevant commercial building with a distinctive urban feel.Named after the characteristic building stone of Venice, the Istria polished plaster finish is made from a combination of slaked lime, recycled marble powder and special additives. The Istria finish is full of ingrained surface movement and creates a matt or honed stone appearance. Tonal variation and surface movement within the finish complements other natural materials including wood, stone and fabric.

Inverness College, University of the Highlands and IslandsArchitect: BDP, GlasgowInstaller: DV McCollProduct: Shiluvit by Oranit and Gustafs Panel System1200m2 of Shiluvit panels in 7-501A formation and stained Yellow Pine were installed to ceilings in the main concourses at Inverness College at the University of the Highlands and Islands.The grand space combines bright blue oxidised copper cladding to the central column (which extends above the building itself) and timber cladding for a colourful and warm space.Staining Yellow Pine to look like Oak is a popular choice across Oranit installations, Pine is not only has a more defined grain than other timbers it also comes fully PEFC certified for sustainable wood sourcing and ethical management of the entire production chain of custody.In addition to the Oranit timber panels at the University, 460m2 of Gustafs Panel System were supplied for the Sports Hall and Performance Studio at the Campus. Panels in Gemini Oak veneer were used in the sports hall for consistency of colour and grain structure across the installation. Panels in plain white laminate were also installed in the hall to be used as whiteboards for classes and exams held in the space.

The team at Moorlands Lodge Care Home, situated in the Surrey South Downs are there to welcome you for a guided tour around the home and discuss your specific care needs.Moorlands Lodge Care Home sits in a beautiful rural location, surrounded by local places of interest including National Trust properties, gardens, and art galleries, and with excellent transport links to nearby Guildford and London. Only a stone’s throw from the bustling market towns of Haslemere and Farnham, Moorlands Lodge Care Home offers a warm and welcoming environment and the very best in residential care, nursing care and dementia care. With 97 rooms, residents can choose between one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and studio apartments, all with en-suite shower rooms and some with kitchenettes.The Una was used in this building. The Una is a timber leaf riser door system with a concealed metal frame. Provided as a full metal door set, made to size and delivered to site as a flat-packed kit prepared for all ironmongery. The wood door leaf comes with hinge cut-outs and can be primed for on-site finishing or pre-finished in our factory. Choose from non-fire rated or fire rated to E30 or E60.

In the heart of Rome, thanks to stone-look outdoor porcelain tiles a private villa is coloured with the appeal and practicality of Atlas Concorde products.A welcoming atmosphere and innovative design take shape in an exclusive residence thanks to Atlas Concorde outdoor tiles that give the indoor and outdoor environments an extremely contemporary look. Employed in the outdoor areas, stone-look tiles on both the floor and on the walls translate nature into a material suitable for designing spaces with an enveloping, suggestive atmosphere. The pool area and the surrounding environment are flooded with intense colours and textures, porcelain tiles for the outdoors being used in different sizes and contrasting colours: light tones and bold hues guarantee a pure creativity able to offer superior technical qualities and the aesthetic versatility that distinguishes the original materials. The refined beauty of the stone look in a Grip finish, with the excellent technical performance of porcelain tiles for outdoors, is the perfect choice for the design of outdoor spaces and environments that require the highest standards of durability and safety. Stylish refinement and attention to detail can also be found in some interior spaces of the building where concrete-look porcelain tiles and wood-look porcelain tiles become the protagonists of a modern, sophisticated style of furnishing.

Universal Music Group – 4 Pancras Square, London
Architect: Aros
Installer: BOK Construction Ltd
Product:  Durlum PolylamIn the summer of 2018 Universal Music Group joins the likes of Google and Louis Vuitton inside the commercial floors of Eric Parry Architects’ Pancras Square 9 building development in Kings Cross, London. UMG’s 1,000 strong workforce occupy the entirety of the buildings 10 floors and 174,570 sq ft of floorspace.LSA Projects Ltd supplied 1,532 Durlum Polylam baffles (roughly 1000m2) to the project in 4 different lengths and custom timber effect finishes: natural oak, light stained oak, medium stained oak, and light grey stained oak. The baffles are installed independently at varying pitches and offset linear spacings to encourage visual flow through the space and elegant incorporation of linear lighting.By using metal baffles rather than a solid or wrapped timber product the architect and client were able to achieve the effect of a linear timber ceiling on a more dramatic scale than would be possible with natural wood. The baffles are also finished with micro perforations to the vertical sides and are filled with mineral wool for additional acoustic control.

A raised garden patio has been secured by a glass railing, supported by SPIG-LITEadvanced. The first few images of installations have been arriving and we love this one by Veon Glass Ltd. A raised patio must have it’s edges protected, but not everybody likes the look of wood or metal railing options. Glass provides a sleek and modern aspect to the garden. The SPIG-LITEadvanced raises the glass above the ground, allowing water to flow beneath, making it the ideal balustrade solution for poolside or wet areas. The product is lightweight and compact, enabling easy and quick installation. As with all Pure Vista products, the glass angle can be adjusted to ensure the glass is perfectly aligned. The best windbreak solution, when you have a view, is glass balustrade. As can be seen from the photos, the glass provides protection from the wind and allows a clear line of sight onto the lawn. A great solution for this family home and everybody can enjoy watching a game of football from the patio. To find out about what building regulations require of your glass balustrade project, refer to our building regulations web page.Installation and photos by Veon Glass Ltd.

Located in Surrey, this detached Victorian property needed its top floor timber windows replaced due to rotting. Maintaining the windows was proving costly for the homeowners but they needed a solution that would still look authentic next to their ground floor timber sash windows. After researching their options, the homeowners came across Roseview’s traditional timber alternative sash windows. The possibility of maintenance-free sash windows that are indistinguishable from the original box sashes, but while providing modern thermal efficiency and enhanced security, made Ultimate Rose the obvious choice. Using modern technology, Ultimate Rose is completely seamless with traditional joinery style mechanical joints and the slimmest 35mm mid rail on the market. When installed adjacent to the homeowner’s original windows it was almost impossible to see a difference. The home was finished with a single vertical astragal bar to match the home’s existing sightlines and allow for maximum natural light. Additionally, run through horns and a wood grain texture was added for a fully authentic finish. The result is truly indistinguishable, and the homeowners now have traditional and modern performing sash windows that will last for years to come. The owners are now planning to replace the timber windows on the ground floor with Ultimate Rose as well.

The architect has created a connection with the outdoors in, utilising large fixed rooflights from Glazing Vision to bring daylight into the house and frame the surroundings.‘The most beautiful spot in the Netherlands’; that is the description of this country house in the marina ‘t Raboes according to the owners. Located on the Eemmeer, a place in the middle of nature, and away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The architect has created a connection with the outdoors in, utilising large fixed skylights from Glazing Vision to bring daylight into the house and frame the surroundings.Bringing in daylight with large minimalist skylights was a key requirement for the architect. The horizontal application of large glass surfaces demands a lot from the design and after many discussions, the architect was confident that Glazing Vision was the rooflight manufacturer that could implement what they had in mind.No framework in sight. Insulated glass with excellent insulation values. Glass that blends seamlessly into the architect’s design. A way to bring the outdoor feeling inside.Three multipart skylights have made this architectural vision become a reality.The back-to-back angles fit in very well with the rest of the modern contemporary interiors. To make it possible to darken the rooms, Glazing Vision has applied custom-made sun protection from Topshade.At the spot where the river Eem flows into the Eemmeer, architect De Kort van Schaik designed the country residence ‘t Raboes. The clients wanted to create a place where they could fully experience nature, but also withdraw from the hustle and bustle of the city.The house consists of three parts, connected by three covered terraces. Concrete walls and floors which blend seamlessly into the environment and large windows that frame the polder landscape.All energy on ‘t Raboes is generated locally. The solar cells on the roof of the marina building supply electricity. A heat pump that uses the surface water of the Eemmeer provides heating for the house and swimming pool.In the living areas, wood stoves have been used, all which use wood from their own grounds, providing readily available extra heating capacity.A beautiful contrast is created by the yellow epoxy bathroom furniture, designed by Sabine Marcelis. A piece of furniture consisting of a bath, wash bath and shower stands as a free-standing sculpture in the concrete bathroom. The skylight forms a completely frameless glass roof, which gives you the feeling of being outside even more.Sabine Marcelis states that she has designed her dream bathroom. The subtle rotation of the furniture gives you a fantastic view of the landscape from the bath.Taken aback by this stunning property, the architectural press has been impressed with all aspects of the design. De Volkskrant gives the Huis op ‘t Raboes five stars. “The Rotterdam architectural firm De Kort Van Schaik designed a house in which you live with the elements and at the same time are protected against them, thanks to a thick concrete coat.”