THE DESIGNERS - Design news from around the world 012 NEWS - Latest news from the building industry

ISG has won a £50 million project to redevelop and refurbish Woolworth House in the heart of London’s West End. The mixed-use scheme, for General Projects with Henderson Park, will increase the building’s gross area by circa 100,000 sq ft. to over 236,000 sq ft, offering 172,000 sq ft. of lettable space and increase floor areas by over 40%.

It includes the complete refurbishment of the existing eight-storey office building, located at 242 Marylebone Road in the London Borough of Westminster. Renamed Metropolis, the new building will benefit from both office and retail facilities, with external green roof terraces across every floor. An events auditorium, rooftop-bar, on-site coffee shop, cyclist zone as well as new health and wellbeing amenities complete the specification.

A new extension will significantly increase outdoor and green space, adding over 6,000 sq ft of new landscaped gardens. To achieve this, the scope of work includes infilling the existing courtyard area up to the seventh floor, providing tiered planted terraces and the structure will be extended with various additions across floors three to eight using a steel frame with cross laminated timber (CLT) slabs. In addition, the existing roof plant enclosures will be removed and consolidated, allowing the creation of rooftop office pavilions on level five and eight. Designed by London architect AHMM, the environmental performance of the refurbished building will be boosted to a BREEAM rating of Outstanding.

Careful retention of existing building material will result in over 4,500 tonnes of carbon saved during the construction process and diverted from landfill. The new scheme will also achieve industry leading Wired and AirRated scores. The use of engineered timber floors to all building extensions has dramatically reduced embodied carbon, equating to a 73% improvement against RIBA 2030 targets. The masonry facades, concrete frame and cores will also be retained while CLT will be used for all new floors forming the building’s extension.

Jim Knowlton, ISG project director, said: “Originally constructed in the 1950’s, Woolworth House is an exemplar of how a low carbon approach can transform our cities’ dated building stock. Underpinned by environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations, the scheme shows how adapting assets into smarter office and retail environments, with more green spaces for occupants, can future proof London’s commercial property market.

“Following the successful completion of 66 Shoe Lane in 2020, Woolworth House is our second collaboration with Henderson Park. The project builds upon the success, expertise and shared learnings of the same delivery team, now applied to this trailblazing low carbon scheme.” www.isgplc.com

The Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) has announced eight exceptional buildings as winners of Scotland’s national architecture awards. The James Jones & Sons Lockerbie site is the largest single site sawmill complex in the UK and the most technically advanced.

As such, Lockerbie receives a high number of visitors – including small groups of customer visits, customer training courses, academic institutions, and industry events. The idea for the building recognised the need to provide increased office accommodation, better visitor facilities, and the opportunity to host on-site training courses and industry meetings, which previously had to be conducted offsite.

James Jones & Sons held a design competition between two architectural firms and the winning team was Konishi Gaffney from Edinburgh, led by Kieran Gaffney. Konishi Gaffney did not have to look far for materials for the new offices and visitor centre at the UK’s largest sawmill: the building acts as a demonstration project, almost entirely erected from James Jones’s own products, with an approach to minimising the use of steel and maximising timber.

This ode to sustainable timber construction showcases the company’s ambition as well as its operations; presenting a flagship for Scotland’s timber industry. The winners of the RIAS Awards will now become the ‘longlist’ for the RIAS Andrew Doolan Best Building in Scotland Award – one of the most significant architecture prizes in the world – which will be announced in November. Recipients of the 2022 RIAS Awards are also eligible for the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Awards.

Drawn from all across Scotland, the winners of the RIAS Awards 2022 include a new secondary school that places students’ mental health and well-being at the heart of its design, the rescue and restoration of an iconic Modernist house, and an exquisite rural office building on the edge of the Balmoral Estate.

RIAS president Christina Gaiger PRIAS said: “This year’s awards show how Scottish architects are rising up to today’s challenges – from the climate emergency to the nation’s mental health – and prove the fundamental role that architecture plays in society.” The jury for the 2022 RIAS Awards were Murray Kerr (founder, Denizen Works), Christina Gaiger PRIAS (President, RIAS), Audrey Carlin (CEO, Wasps Studios) and Tony Chapman (former head of awards, RIBA).

In addition to this latest award, the Lockerbie visitor building has also won the 2021 EAA Wood for Good Award and two Scottish Design Awards winning both the Architecture award for a ‘Commercial / Office / Hotel Building or Project’ and the overall ‘Architecture Grand Prix’ award. Speaking about the awards, Rob MacKenna, General Manager at James Jones Lockerbie site said “We are delighted with the recognition the new building has received. "

"The striking design and innovative use of solid and engineered timber products are a great example of how timber can be used to deliver high quality office and meeting areas. Konishi Gaffney architects were able to articulate this in the building’s design and its fantastic their efforts, and those of the project team, have been recognised”. www.jamesjones.co.uk

LLI Design has recently completed a total refurbishment of a 3 storey Edwardian townhouse on a leafy residential road in Highgate, a desirable residential area of North London. LLI Design's clients wanted to create a warm, comfortable home with modern touches. Although the house was in reasonable condition, the joinery and fittings throughout the house were dated, had been well used and looked tired.

Many of the period features had been stripped out and those that remained had not been maximised. The house lacked character and personality although it benefited from ‘good bones’, nicely proportioned rooms, a delightful garden and a handsome exterior. LLI Design felt that more could be made of the period features, enhancing some and reinstating others to bring out more of the Edwardian feel of the property.

The brief was to create a warm, comfortable and welcoming home referencing and emphasising the house’s Edwardian past as well as adding more contemporary elements to the scheme.

By subtle changes to the spaces and by adding texture, color and interesting material choices LLI Design was able to create a warm, comfortable and welcoming family home. LLI Design has achieved a harmonious and calm aesthetic throughout with modern touches within a timeless design.

LLI Design offers a comprehensive design service, taking projects from briefing through to Handover; creating beautifully crafted interiors for discerning clients. Recent projects include the interior design and modernisation of properties in Hampstead, Belgravia and Highgate including a 10,000 sq ft Victorian residence, a 12,000 sq ft new build home and the co-joining and re-planning of two apartments to provide a single luxury penthouse. www.llidesign.co.uk

Midlands-based contractor G F Tomlinson has completed a programme of refurbishment works at the University of Lincoln’s Riseholme Park campus, just north of the city. The 400-acre site, which comprises the Lincoln Institute for Agri-Food Technology (LIAT), Riseholme Hall, an equestrian centre, Plowright House, woodlands, grasslands, watercourses and a working farm, has undergone extensive refurbishment works to the value of £4.7 million. Secured through the Scape Regional Construction framework, the project was delivered over two contracts by G F Tomlinson alongside architects CPMG and PolkeyCollins - to provide improved learning and research facilities for university staff and students at the site’s existing buildings, including Riseholme Hall, Plowright House, the on-site stables used by Bishop Burton College and Riseholme Park Farm. The site, part of which is located within a registered historic park and gardens of special historic interest, is home to the buried remains and earthwork of a medieval village - a settlement which was established there in the late 11th century. Works to the Grade II listed, early 18th century Riseholme Hall, saw M&E systems upgraded including new lighting and intumescent door fixings to meet current fire regulations, as well as redecoration throughout the building.

New security door scanning technology was also installed to each office and meeting room within the building, and included the installation of a new kitchen and café area, shower room and toilet facilities. Externally, essential repairs were carried out to protect the fabric of the historic building, including liquid coating the roof, replacing leadwork and replacing timber. Refurbishment of the existing equestrian centre and farm included upgrading the barns and stables with new roofing, lighting and adding an extension to one of the barns.

A new roundhouse was also constructed for the farm livestock – providing a lighter environment, separate sections and easier channels for livestock movement and managing veterinary visits, as well as a raised viewing area for staff and students to enable safer teaching. New lighting, fencing, timber cladding and guttering were also provided to two of the farm’s existing agricultural buildings – with a new extension including welfare space for students constructed at one of the buildings. G F Tomlinson also carried out refurbishment works to Plowright House, which is used by Barclays, and houses an Eagle Laboratory Farm.

Formed in partnership with the University of Lincoln’s Institute for Agrifood Technology and Agri-Robotics research centre, the Eagle Laboratory Farm supports entrepreneurs with the latest technology, co-working and dedicated business spaces, a robotics lab, a demonstration packhouse and model refrigerated supermarket aisle, all intended for the aim of furthering innovation in agricultural technology. www.gftomlinson.co.uk

The A. Proctor Group, recognised worldwide for its extensive portfolio of technically advanced thermal, acoustic and membrane solutions for the construction industry, has launched an online support package for designers, contractors, and customers. A new dedicated members area offers full access to all the high-quality technical webinars with downloadable personalised CPD certification for each.

By subscribing, the documents will be highlighted in a personal favourites section for quick and easy access and receive notifications when documents are updated. There is also the opportunity to register for early access to the A. Proctor Group’s free online u-Value & Condensation Risk Calculator. Available to download as an App (Android only) or on a web browser, the Onsite App provides quick and easy support for customers with installation on site.

Customers can access all the company’s product datasheets, certifications, installation guides and technical properties. In addition, the application allows users to send installation questions along with pictures or videos directly to the A. Proctor Group’s technical team and to request a site visit from a Regional Sales Manager. www.proctorgroup.com Improved energy efficiency of the whole window installation, not just the frame, can be provided this winter with ISO BLOCO 600 self-adhesive sealant tapes from ISO-Chemie. The precompressed tapes, which have been independently tested and are both BBA and Passivhaus certified, can be used on joints up to 42 mm, providing a highperformance weather tightness and thermal/acoustic insulation seal for fenestration applications.

ISO BLOCO ONE 600 are energy rated weather tight thermal and acoustic tapes which reduce heat loss and noise ingress to a U value better or equal to the frame. This assures property and homeowners that a comprehensive ‘A’ rated installation can been completed rather than just an ‘A’ rated window supplied. www.iso-chemie.eu/en-GB/home/

ESi Controls has launched its new, top of the range, 6 Series WiFi Programmable Room Thermostat, offering the latest in heating control for homes and commercial premises here in the UK. Fully OpenTherm compatible, this new range of controls allows full control via the room thermostat or via a mobile phone or tablet, with a range of features to impress even the most demanding specifier, installer or homeowner.

It includes Optimum Start/ Stop, Domestic Hot Water (DHW) setpoint, Hot Water time and temperature control when working in conjunction with a wireless cylinder thermostat, and is an ERP Class 5 Product. www.esicontrols.co.uk

TYDE, who are a Thomas Dudley business, are proud to announce the expansion of its UK based Sales Team. Joining TYDE’s sales team are Ash Meah, David Scarlett, Leigh Randell and Jamie Abethell. (Pictured from left to right – Ash Meah, David Scarlett, Leigh Randall and Jamie Abethell).

Experienced Specification experts Ash and David join TYDE as Specification Managers for the North and South of the United Kingdom, respectively, to further build relationships within the Specifications sector. Both Ash and David have a wealth of knowledge within the plumbing and specification markets having over a quarter of a century of combined experience.

Also joining TYDE’s sales team are Leigh Randell and Jamie Abethell. They have each spent many years working within this exciting market sector and are well versed in the needs of merchants of all sizes. www.thomasdudley.co.uk/tyde

Recent tests have shown that Troldtekt acoustic panels withstand moisture levels up to 98%, even when combined with high temperatures up to 40°C. These latest tests were carried out by the accredited Danish Technological Institute to the European product standard for suspended ceilings (EN 13964).

While the composition of the panels has remained unchanged, this new round of stringent testing reinforces the fact that the panels are suitable for the most demanding of wet, warm and humid environments. They do not warp over time, giving them a life span in excess of 50 years. The panels are inherently robust and durable because the combined strength of the cement coupled with the breathability of wood means the structure does not rot and acts as an anti-microbial surface resisting fungal growth and other microorganisms. www.troldtekt.co.uk

Architects looking for a sophisticated take on AkzoNobel’s 2022 Color of the Year can benefit from Interpon’s Baku. Building on the light and airy shades of Bright Skies, which draws out themes such as expansion, open air and the great outdoors, Baku, which is part of the 2022-2025 Futura Collection, provides bold, neutral tones to bring the collection down to Earth. Extensive global trend research done by a team of AkzoNobel experts and international designers reveals that they’re reassessing what really matters and ready for a fresh approach to everything.

Conducted annually by AkzoNobel for nearly 20 years, the research generates valuable insights that are translated by paints and coatings experts into their respective segments. The Futura Collection has been the leading color range in the powder industry for decades, with a color palette which is updated every four years. For more information about the Color of the Year 2022, visit https://architectural.interpon.com/ and follow #CF22 on social media.

The A. Proctor Group, synonymous with technically advanced thermal, acoustic and membrane solutions for the construction industry, has introduced a RIBA Approved CPD seminar titled “Building Refurbishment, Systems for Retrofit & Conservation.” Aimed at architects, specifiers and contractors, attendees will receive technical advice from A. Proctor Group technical experts, providing the latest guidance on British and European Standards, compliance with Building Regulations, and learning on how to maximise performance and avoid potential failures.

Iain Fairnington, Technical Director, commented, “This session provides an overview of the factors to consider in refurbishment and conservation projects, including the basics of building physics as related to hygrothermal design. It also provides an overview of the standards, regulations and frameworks involved in designing for retrofit and conservation.”

Iain adds, “our CPDs have proved invaluable to professionals involved in the design and construction of buildings. Through the CPD series, we aim to provide technically accurate learning based on best practices, innovation, and project examples to help individuals make informed choices when specifying product solutions for their projects.”

Please get in touch with A. Proctor's technical department for more information on their CPDs or book a CPD on the ribacpd.com website. www.proctorgroup.com

HAURATON’s new web-based application ‘DesignSoftware’ provides construction industry professionals with quick, simple hydraulic analysis, channel sizing, project design and product specification for the company’s range of surface drainage systems (for landscape, commercial and civils projects) whilst working on their own desk-top computers, laptops and tablets. Immediate access for registration and use of this new hydraulic design software is achieved through the link: https://hydraulicdesign.hauraton.com. User-friendly and free-of-charge, HAURATON ‘DesignSoftware’ provides engineers with the flexibility to create their own drainage designs and project specifications, with just three clicks to a hydraulic calculation.

HAURATON has used their ‘in-house’ hydraulic design software to create project designs for over 30 years with total reliability. In addition to this new software application, HAURATON offers a comprehensive design service, which is also free of charge. www.hauraton.co.uk

Sconnex types W (left) and P (right)

Over six decades Schöck has built a formidable international reputation for innovative and progressive product design. The company is best known for its market leading range of Isokorb structural thermal breaks, but its pioneering reinforcement technology and impact sound insulation solutions are also a significant part of the product portfolio.

Innovation though is not always about original product development. The Schöck philosophy of rethinking existing product capabilities can lead to derivative technology and the new Sconnex product range is a perfect example. It offers outstanding insulation performance, combined with an exceptional load-bearing capacity. Closing the last major thermal bridge - Type W, for insulating the thermal bridge at the base, or the top of the reinforced concrete wall; type P for insulating the column head and eliminating the need for flank insulation; and type M, a capillary barrier that insulates at the base, or the top, of a masonry wall.

With these ingenious high quality solutions, the company has transferred its Isokorb expertise in balcony technology to walls and columns. But what necessary development steps and which building physics obstacles had to be overcome for the concept to become an approved component?

Building physics and expert analysis - The main focus of the 2050 building policy guidelines is to reduce energy losses and a critical area is the thermal performance of the building envelope, through a fabric first approach.

Sconnex contributes significantly to meeting such a challenging and vital sustainable concept. About 40% of all thermal bridges in a building are caused by walls and columns, resulting in around 10% of heating energy losses. So the objective was to be the first company to develop a component for wall and column connections that both minimises thermal bridges and makes external insulation unnecessary. All three product types

However, bringing a major new product to market requires extensive due diligence. First, building physics analysis confirmed the solution as being realistic in its practical implementation. Then, extensive expert opinions were prepared for the German Institute for Construction Technology (DIBt), where all mandatory legal requirements, including 90 minute fire resistance, were met. Because of the variance from practiced construction methods, Schöck also involved scientists from the University of Darmstadt.

With groundbreaking innovations, Schöck often teams with specialists from universities and high-profile engineering firms in the development of calculation models. In one dissertation, an empirical design proposal was created for the application of the connection element in construction practice, based on extensive experimental studies on its load-bearing behaviour. Schöck test results were also incorporated and the design proposal ratified by expert opinion.

Total assurance for architects and planners - By introducing Sconnex, Schöck has met the needs of the construction industry in maximising the reduction of thermal bridges involving walls and columns. Architects and planners can be assured that the Sconnex product family sets new standards for energyefficient construction in the 21st century; and those who have already incorporated the products into their projects are enthusiastic about the new design freedom, the planning safety and the economically achievable results for the client. www.schoeck.com

Architectural product manufacturer, Neaco Ltd, has strengthened its procurement credentials after securing Gold Level Membership of Constructionline, the UK construction industry’s leading register for pre-qualified contractors and consultants. Gold status will allow Neaco to bid for an even wider range of projects and secure specifications for a diverse product portfolio which includes multi-purpose architectural grilles, decking, adaptive bathing aids, balustrade and balcony systems.

Constructionline’s database is accessed by over 2,000 organisations including central government, local authorities and main contractors which require suppliers to be accredited as part of the tendering process, assuring quality and compliance throughout the supply chain. Gold accreditation assesses a range of additional areas including environmental management, quality management, equalities and diversity.

Neaco Managing Director, Alan Green, said: “Constructionline helps both sides, buyers and suppliers, to bypass typical problems associated with the tender process, saving everyone time, money and hassle. Neaco achieved our first Constructionline accreditation in 2009 and we have been Silver Members since 2019. We have invested a lot of time in reviewing our operations and systems to ensure that we meet all the requirements for Gold Membership. Together with our SSIP accreditation and CSCS qualification, it puts Neaco in a very strong position to develop new business across the supply chain.” www.neaco.co.uk

The new OSMO® F1 concealed cistern from TYDE is the first ever front access serviceable syphon cistern designed for use with WC furniture & IPS panelling. Manufactured in the UK by TYDE, OSMO® F1 is a new innovative concealed cistern designed to be stylish, versatile and easy to fit and service with minimal disruption to WC furniture or panelling.

Fitted with Turbo Edge®, the world’s most compact syphon and guaranteed to be leak-free and Hydroflo® quiet fill type AG inlet valve. Type AB weir overflow makes the cistern fluid category 5 compliant; the only way to be compliant to water regs in standard height furniture. The unique actuator is a patented registered design available in multiple finishes with left and right availability, ergonomically tested for optimum light touch operation (actuators sold separately).

Factory assembled for easy install with front access for effortless service and maintenance, comes with a 10 year warranty. Fits neatly into 500mm furniture units, TYDE recommends installing at a height of no less than 838mm. TYDE also recommends that OSMO® F1 is only used with a reputable branded manufacturer of WC Pans. www.thomasdudley.co.uk/tyde

The A. Proctor Group, synonymous with technically advanced thermal, acoustic and membrane solutions for the construction industry, has further extended its RIBA Approved CPD seminar collection. Aimed at architects, specifiers and contractors, attendees will receive technical advice from A. Proctor Group technical experts, providing the latest guidance on British and European Standards, compliance with Building Regulations, and learning on how to maximise performance and avoid potential failures. Each seminar is available as an in-person seminar provided within practice or as in-depth Online Learning material to support individuals with their Continuing Professional Development.

The full list of seminars is provided below and can be booked via the RIBA CPD website or from the A. Proctor Group website. They are: Pitched Roof Design Considerations: Energy, Moisture & Air Permeability; Physics and Applications of Construction Membranes; Passive House and Low Energy Housing Design;Building Refurbishment: Systems for Retrofit and Conservation; Air Leakage and Fire Performance in Façade Systems.

Iain Fairnington, the Technical Director at A. Proctor Group adds, “our CPDs have proved invaluable to professionals involved in the design and construction of buildings. Through the CPD series, we aim to provide technically accurate learning based on best practices, innovation, and project examples to help individuals make informed choices when specifying product solutions for their projects.” Please contact the A. Proctor Group for more information or to book a CPD visit www.proctorgroup.com/riba-cpd-seminars.

GEZE UK has strengthened its Window Technology team with the recent appointment of Dean Tonna, who joins the renowned manufacturer of door and window control systems as Area Sales Manager covering the Midlands, south of England, south and mid-Wales. Supporting GEZE UK’s planned growth for window technology products, Dean will focus on developing first-class relationships with key contacts at fabricators, contractors and distributors, and work with architects and M&E consultants to develop specifications and provide technical solutions from the company’s extensive window control range for both natural ventilation and natural smoke and heat extraction.

With a strong track record in technical sales, including experience working for Monodraught, Coxdome and Glidevale, Dean has extensive experience in the sector and will be assisting M&E consultants in specifying the correct products to form part of an integrated fire and indoor climate control system. Dean will also be focusing on the education sector as the sector looks to reduce CO2 emissions in line with Net Zero targets for 2030.

Said Dean, ‘I am pleased to join GEZE, they are a well-respected name in the industry and are a market leader with a varied product range. I am familiar with the route to market so will be able assist customers with advice and specifications immediately.’ www.geze.co.uk