The Essential Building Product Review, November 2022

review

The Essential Building Product Review

front cover photo courtesy of Troldtektwww.troldtekt.co.uk

inside front cover photo courtesy of Berkeley Place - www.berkeleyplace.co.uk

Some of the colour photography used in The Review is provided and paid for by contributors. The publishers do not accept liability for errors that may appear in the publication. Dedicated to our friend and colleague, Mike Mahon. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the publisher's consent. Published by L2Media Ltd, Parkfield Business Centre, Park Street, Stafford ST17 4AL. Tel: 01785 223253 Fax: 0845 862 8639 www.l2media.uk

New Puerto Rico Eco-Resort

By Studio Anyo Goes Offsite

To Deliver ‘Unique’ Tree-Top Living Experience

UK architects Studio Anyo has been commissioned to design and project manage a new multimillion-pound eco resort on a Caribbean island of Puerto Rico. The circa £10 million project will see the creation of a family of 12 seven luxury eco-lodges featuring four 1-bedroomed units, including a disability access unit, two 2-bedroomed units, two VIP units and four 1-bedroomed tree house units constructed offsite in the UK using the latest build techniques and MMC materials.

Tree house units in the activity section as individual rental units are also planned along with a luxury customised tree house retreat experience. These will

then be shipped directly to Puerto Rico for erection on a seven-hectare site close to the El Hippie Waterfall on the edge of the El Yungue National Forest in the east of the country.

Once built for developer Namu Investment Group, they will become the eye-catching centrepiece of an ambitious and ground breaking sustainable eco-leisure destination that will also feature a fitness retreat, wild bathing, BBQs, tree top walkways and swings, cable cars, restaurants, a spa, and a coffee bean planting and tasting experience.

While still in the development stage, the ecoresort, which is scheduled to open for visitors in 2024, has been designed to incorporate a range of sustainable materials to create components assembled on-site to heighten enhanced levels of building fabric performance.

Adopting the latest offsite techniques will reduce material delivery times and cut the construction site footprint while materials reclaimed from the demolition of existing buildings will be used in the construction process, delivering long term efficiencies. Studio Anyo’s ‘carbon and energy positive, zero waste framework’ system will be utilised to create net biodiversity gains in the construction of its ‘Samlingen’ leisure accommodation, which has been designed to provide long term energy saving and sustainability benefits.

Local skilled labour will also be employed to support the supply chain and deliver a higher quality product, with minimum impact on and disruption to the local community. (cont...)

(cont...) The ‘Samlingen’ incorporates leading edge design to deliver contemporary leading edge leisure accommodation. The interior features a large open kitchen diner, ample storage provision, a master suite with ensuite private balcony, child-friendly bedrooms and exterior seating.

Furthermore, the light is used to define the space in the ‘Samlingen’ style as the controlled views will relate to the passage through the unit opening out into stunning landscapes and vistas. Renowned for its draw-dropping landscapes and stunning natural phenomena, Puerto Rico with its focus on conservation and ecology, is being seen as one of the fastest growing destinations for eco-travellers.

The travel lodge industry alone has generated $1 billion during the first half of 2022, according to the island’s official destination marketing organisation, Discover Puerto Rico. Studio Anyo was recommended for the project by Scotlandbased glamping site designer and developer, Glampitect.

CEO

said: “This is another ground breaking, exciting project for Studio Anyo. We have incorporated design principles to deliver modular sustainability and a bespoke experience with tree-level living spaces within the sanctity of the local forest and wider natural environment.

“As architects, we have drawn on our extensive knowledge and expertise of bespoke solutions and contemporary design to create a stunning project that will undoubtedly make a huge contribution to Puerto Rico’s burgeoning, dynamic ecotravel market.” www.studioanyo.com

of Studio Anyo, James Walsh, who is overseeing the project design and development phases,

A Look Inside The World’s First Fully Immersive Experiential Marine Life Centre

The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC), the developer behind the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism projects, The Red Sea and AMAALA, has revealed design plans for its state-of-the-art marine life institute. Created by world-class architectural design firm Foster + Partners, the institute will function as both a scientific research center and a tourist destination.

It will accelerate conservation-driven research, while offering visitors truly multidimensional experiences that bridge educational exhibitions with adventure-filled excursions.

“We wanted to design a first-ofits-kind facility that extends far beyond any existing marine life attraction. With 10 zones that provide everything from augmented reality experiences to night diving, and spaces for the scientific community to effectively progress their environmental projects, the facility is undeniably unique. Not only will it drive global green and blue innovations, it will also help put Saudi Arabia on the map for travelers seeking trips that enrich their lives,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of TRSDC.

“The institute will live in the Triple Bay marina at AMAALA, but is the beating heart of our broader ambitions to protect and enhance the thriving Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia. Through our expanding portfolio of projects, we will share our valuable scientific discoveries with the world and enable our guests to experience the true beauty of our thriving coral reefs.”

Expected to host up to 650 people at any one time, guests will be able to walk underwater, snorkel with rare species, participate in lab tours and dive the depths of the Red Sea in a submarine. A testament to TRSDC's coral farming operations, the facility will also be home to one of the world’s largest man-made reefs, measuring an astonishing 40 meters long and 10 meters deep and providing an epic “Grand Reveal” moment for visitors on arrival.

Integrating architecture with nature - Set within the AMAALA destination on the west coast of Saudi Arabia and located on the waterfront of Triple Bay, the 10,340 square meter institute will comprise three levels – one above ground and two below –and offer stunning panoramic views of the Red Sea and the marina. Inspired by the Red Sea's thriving coral formations, the glass-reinforced concrete that is being used to build the institute will be intricately molded to resemble reef patterns against the skyline.

Inside, exhibition displays have also been integrated into the infrastructure, with visitors flanked by suspended semi-spherical tanks containing colorful local marine wildlife from the point of entry. Gerard Evenden, Head of Studio at Foster + Partners, said: “The marine life institute will take guests on a vibrant, educational, and awe-inspiring journey that unveils the natural wonders of the Red Sea and blurs the boundaries between the institute and the ocean. By recreating natural marine habitats, offering unforgettable marine interactions, and sharing glimpses into conservation projects, it will provide guests with an immersive marine experience unlike any other.”

Sustainably constructed - As part of TRSDC’s commitment to responsible development, more than 40 percent of the site will be covered by native plants, and a system to collect runoff water put in place to prevent erosion and pollution, while reducing mains water use.

The lighting throughout the institute has also been designed with the company’s green ambitions in mind, with an innovative framework to prevent light pollution to protect the nocturnal environment. “More than just a window into the marine world, we’re creating an integrated experience that offers unique activities for our guests, with a collection

of opportunities to explore and learn suited to all,” said Warren Baverstock, Senior Marine Life Director at TRSDC. “The overlay of sustainable design, build and operations, guest experience and meaningful scientific work underpins our commitment to drive enhancement of the environment and tourism growth. It’s a perfect model of sustainability, balancing people, planet and commercial success,” added Pagano.

Phase one of AMAALA – Triple Bay – is well underway and will consist of eight resorts offering upwards of 1,200 hotel keys. Upon completion, the destination will be home to more than 3,000 hotel rooms across 25 hotels, and approximately 900 luxury residential villas, apartments and estate homes, alongside highend retail establishments, fine dining, wellness and recreational facilities. www.theredsea.sa www.fosterandpartners.com

HOK Designs New Workplace For BBC Studios In Bristol

HOK’s London studio has designed a new production base for BBC Studios in the centre of Bristol—its largest outside London. Staff from the world-renowned Natural History Unit (NHU) and Factual Entertainment Bristol, which produces Top Gear, Antiques Roadshow, Gardeners’ World, Countryfile and DIY SOS, now work in the 5,575SM space across three floors of Bridgewater House in Finzels Reach.

BBC Studios occupies the first three floors of the building, where it has its own entrance and main reception on the ground floor. With its open plan and flexible furniture, the ground floor provides an inviting space for events and functions. An auditorium accommodates presentations and masterclasses. Bi-fold doors extend the event space outside to a new landscaped garden area that can host year-round gatherings.

This inclusive plan provides flexible, easily accessible workspaces that enable all staff to thrive and feel comfortable. The first and second storeys house the non-hierarchical office space, with team neighbourhoods

wrapping around the perimeter. A broken-plan layout deconstructs the open-plan zone, using shelving, plants and dividers to form collaboration space and focus areas. The open shelving dividers have adjustable whiteboards that help create customisable team zones while providing acoustic privacy.

A central breakout space overlooking the ground-floor event area provides a social hub. Breakout/tea points in the centre of the office floors bring BBC’s Studios people together. A variety of furniture settings ensure that the space is activated for both work and socialising throughout the day.

“We designed the new space to showcase BBC Studio’s content pioneers, inventors and reinventors while providing an inclusive, inspiring workplace that motivates its people to do their best work and helps them feel valued,” said Timothy Hatton, Senior Interior Design Professional with HOK.

Sustainability and Well-Being - The design supports BBC Studios commitment to sustainability and the Natural History Unit’s reputation as the world’s leading producer of content about the natural world. It was imperative to provide a highly sustainable design to support people who use storytelling to give the natural world a voice. The space has been awarded a SKA Gold certification. To help all staff feel included, the workplace accommodates many types of uses for both hypersensitive and hyposensitive individuals.

A variety of different settings enable individuals to work in environments that best suit their tasks and preferred surroundings. The material choices reinforce BBC Studio’s leadership in programming about the natural world. All timber used in the project was certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). The team sourced reclaimed wood in feature areas. Walls made of cork, a natural and rapidly

renewable material that reduces noise, improves acoustics in meeting spaces. Most furniture was reused. The team also sourced quality preloved furniture where available. Using clay-based paints instead of typical emulsion paints reduced airborne odours and contaminants. The clay-based paints also lessen static charge build up, which minimises dust and allergens. Biophilic design elements create a healthy, uplifting environment and another connection to the natural world.

Team - HOK collaborated with Studio B, AECOM, Cath Leach and Currie & Brown on the design. With offices around the globe, HOK designs buildings and spaces that respond to the needs of people and the environment. HOK designers are rooted in technical excellence, driven by imagination and focused on a solitary goal: to deliver solutions that inspire clients and communities. www.hok.com

Bristol Bomb Shelter Makeover

Berkeley Place renovated a basement duplex apartment situated in a prime residential street in Clifton. During the basement renovation, an amazing piece of history was found. On the wall handwritten is a record of the 2nd World War air raids on Bristol. Between 24th Nov 1940 and 11th April 1941 there were six major bombing raids on the city.

Due to the presence of the Bristol Harbour and The Bristol Aeroplane Co, the city was a target for bombing, and was easily found as enemy bombers were able to trace a course up the River Avon from Avonmouth. Bristol was the fifth most heavily bombed British city of WWII.The basement has been converted into a basement snug bedroom and bathroom.

To create the snug there was a full basement renovation, repair and repoint of the flagstone. The bedroom was cleverly subdivided to maximise use of space and provide two separate sleeping spaces. (cont...)

(cont...) The historical basement was given a new lease of life to make it more liveable.The Grade II listed a full renovation of the front terrace, living room, hallway, kitchen, utility, dining, bedroom and a master ensuite with a crittal terrace.

The vibe of the project is bringing the old into the new and cleverly designing the small space to feel larger. Creating a larger amount of space in the home was a challenge which was overcome with clever storage. The whole home has a new warmth with new timber and underfloor heating. To mix old with new, a variety of suppliers were used such as Howdens, Farrow & Ball (colours India Yellow (modern emulsion), Wimborne White (estate eggshell), Hardwick white (estate eggshell).

The tiling came from Mandarin stone, wallpaper is Harlequin Salon Wallpaper and the crittal supplied by Fabco. A new kitchen was installed with quartz worktops, a Chelford navy customised kitchen, Quooker classic fusion square patinated brass hot taps and parquet flooring.

In the dining room and hallway new glazed metal framed door and window as installed. In the kitchen and living room a full height wall bookshelf was installed. The stairs were installed with curved timber handrail to the outer wall and cleaned sandstone basement flooring and staircase. www.berkeleyplace.co.uk

LG LAUNCHES ASHP NEW BUILD DESIGN SERVICE

Leading HVAC manufacturer LG has launched a New Build Design Service, to assist new build developers when specifying heat pumps into new homes. This new service is for developments of 6 or more plots and will provide full designs for plumbing and heating layouts along with equipment schedules that specify the heat pump required, radiator or underfloor manifold heating positions, pipework type and length and controls to ensure that the system which is specified will provide the necessary heating and hot water solution for any house archetype. Furthermore, LG also offers a unique service for CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) analysis, determining the optimal location and performance simulation of the outdoor units.

This new service comes hot on the heels of the recent launch of the latest version of the LG Therma V Monobloc air to water heat pump – the Therma V Monobloc Swhich builds on the success of the original Monobloc with a number of important new features and improved performance criteria.

The new Monobloc S range further supports LG’s Split, Hydro Split and High Temperature Split Heat Pumps which all benefit from the company’s in-house revolutionary R1 Compressor technology. Homeowners can further benefit through the use of LG’s ThinQ platform, which the company integrates in to products ranging from TV’s to refrigerators and enables a total smart home control for the consumer with the purchase of the LG Wifi Modem and by downloading the ThinQ app. To find out more about the new service and to get details of how LG can help you in the months ahead, head for https://b2bmkt.lge.com/ newhousebuilders or email peter.spurway@lge.com for information.

THE LATEST IN HEATING CONTROL

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 prem ises here in the UK.

Fully OpenTherm compatible, this new range of controls al lows 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

TIM TAKES ON ALIMET TECHNICAL SALES ROLE

Tim Moore has joined AliMet Fabrications as Technical Sales Consultant to help establish new business partnerships and support the delivery of quality products and services. Tim, from Leicestershire, has a wealth of experience in the door and window industry and should prove a huge asset to AliMet's client base.

He began his career as an estimator in the 1980s with automatic door supplier Doro-matic in his home town of Leamington Spa. He moved into sales, worked with Boon Edam and spent seven years with Horton Automatics. Tim has also worked for GEZE UK and for the past 17 years, with Axis Entrance Systems, in Northampton. He was a member of the Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA) executive committee for more than 20 years including two as chairman.

His move sees him reunited with two former colleagues: owner Paul Ryan and Managing Director Steve Marshall. "I first met Steve when I worked at Dor-o-matic and we used to buy aluminium from James Gibbons where he worked at the time. I then went to work for GEZE which Paul and Steve helped establish in the UK. It is nice to be reunited again at AliMet Fabrications," he said. Outside of work Tim enjoys spending time with his wife and two grown-up children. His passion is rugby union – as a former player and supporter. His son is following his footsteps and looks set to establish a career in the sport. www.alimet.co.uk

STELRAD CPD PROGRAMMES AVAILABLE ON LINE

Stelrad Radiators popular CIBSE and RIBA accredited CPD programmes are still available for face-to-face presentations, but they are now also available conveniently online. You can simply go to the Stelrad website at www.stelrad.com/cpdonline-training/ open the programme at your convenience, digest the information and take the test at the end of the presentation and submit your answers. If you’ve passed, Stelrad send a certificate for you to add the CPD points to your running total for your professional body. For more information, call 01709 578950 or email marketing@stelrad.com.

YORKSHIRE-BASED MANUFACTURER CELEBRATES 50 YEARS IN CONSTRUCTION

A North Yorkshire-based manufacturer reached a major milestone this week when Neaco Ltd celebrated 50 years in business supplying architectural solutions to the construction market. Neaco formed in 1972, setting up a design team and a factory in Malton to engineer building products from aluminium alloy. The company started with the production of industrial walkways before diversifying with the development of multipurpose architectural grilles, decking, adaptive bathing aids and a range of balustrade and balcony systems.

Five decades later, Neaco has navigated the peaks and troughs of the construction sector to establish a global reach supplying some of the world’s largest architectural projects. Neaco

A. PROCTOR GROUP LAUNCHES NEW ONLINE SUPPORT TOOLS

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. www.proctorgroup.com

Managing Director, Alan Green, said: “Fifty years is exceptional longevity in construction, which is regarded as a bellwether sector for the wider economy and has experienced some of the most challenging downturns over the past five decades. Research and Development has been a big part of Neaco’s operation from the start – we have a policy of continuous product development and we established a diverse portfolio from a very early stage.”

“With its low carbon footprint and 100% recyclability, aluminium has become increasingly preferred in construction as sustainability has risen up the industry’s agenda. Its noncombustibility has also become a valuable attribute in a postGrenfell sector which has given long-overdue attention to the importance of fire safety.

“Developing business overseas has also been a huge factor in Neaco’s success. An extensive international network enables us to supply complete solutions for projects in every region, from Europe and the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Our factory in Malton has recently been expanded over the years to 52,000 square feet and we are now preparing for the next 50 years on a very strong footing for a new phase of growth.” www.neaco.co.uk

Yorkshire Manufacturer

Reaps Rewards Of Sourcing 100% From UK

A Yorkshire manufacturer which sources 100% of its raw materials in the UK has seen a major increase in its competitive strength amid soaring energy costs and global supply chain issues. Malton-based Neaco Ltd uses domestically supplied aluminium alloy and glass to produce a range of modular building systems, including architectural grilles, decking, adaptive bathing aids, balustrade and balconies. Competitors which sourced cheaper raw materials from overseas are now feeling the effects of increased import costs and delays, negating their price advantage. As a result, Neaco has recorded a surge of interest for the company’s entirely homeproduced products.

Neaco Managing Director, Alan Green, said: “Companies across the world have experienced a negative impact from the energy crisis and the disruption in the global supply chain. Neaco are no different, but our reliance on UK suppliers has given us an advantage in the domestic market in the context of the challenges facing the worldwide economy. All our architectural solutions are made up of modular components which are pre-engineered at our factory using high quality raw materials from long-standing British suppliers, backed by a class-leading lifetime guarantee."

"When tendering for UK projects in the past, there were times when we have lost out purely on price to competitors which rely on importing lower quality products or lower quality, cheaper raw materials. These imports have now become much more expensive due to increased energy and transportation costs. Their prices and their lead times have gone up, so many of their clients are now turning to us. Pre-fabricating our components and holding them as stock enables us to provide much faster lead times and enables clients to bypass supply chain obstacles.”

“Keeping our logistics in the UK and reducing our carbon footprint through minimal transportation has always been an attractive attribute to a UK construction sector which prioritises sustainability, but we can now combine that with extremely competitive pricing which has delivered a substantial increase in business over the past six months. The challenge ahead will be maintaining that success in an increasingly uncertain economic climate at home and abroad.” www.neaco.co.uk

Awards Success for Tillymint Communications and ADSA

PR company Tillymint Communications scooped a cluster of wins at the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) PRide Awards – including one which highlighted the benefits and achievements of the Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA). Tillymint Communications won: Best Independent PR Practitioner of the Year (gold award), Best Low Budget Campaign (silver) and Best Publication (silver).

ADSA’s Conversation Campaign picked up silver for the Low Budget award. It is an integrated campaign highlighted member benefits delivered through display advertising, social media content, events and marketing collateral. Aimed to get members and industry professionals talking about the issues that matter, a hashtag device #bepartoftheconversation was used across all channels. Output included an animated graphic, which to date, has received more than 40,500 views. https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=xDTV_K8K4AY

The campaign underpinned a wider communication strategy for ADSA as the leading voice of the industry, representing its members interests by establishing and maintain standards, increasing competence levels and boosting membership opportunities. As a consequence. ADSA membership grew by more than 25 per cent during the first phase of the campaign. Said Tillymint founder Alison Gallagher-Hughes: “It is such an honour to be recognised by fellow professionals within the communications industry which neatly coincides with our anniversary. It is just two years ago this month that Tillymint was established and it’s great to look back at how far we have come and what we have achieved for our clients.” ADSA MD Ken Price added: “We have the honour of being Tillymint’s first-ever client. It’s a partnership that works extremely well and I am sure will go on to achieve even bigger and better things.” For more information on Tillymint’s PR and marketing services visit: www.tillymint.co.uk and for information on ADSA membership view www.adsa.org.uk/membership

Opening Doors For GEZE UK

GEZE UK has demonstrated its commitment to supporting customers with technical advice and product guidance with the recent appointment of Ian Prince, who joins the renowned manufacturer of door and window control systems as Area Sales Manager for supply and fit of automatic doors covering the East Midlands and East of England. Ian will be focusing on building strong business relationships with customers supporting them by analysing their requirements and proposing technical solutions from the company’s extensive range of automatic operators.

With a strong track record of B2B sales and over 20 years’ experience in account management and business development across 5 different industries Ian brings with him a wealth of knowledge to assist customers make the right choices for their projects. Ian has a BA (Hons) Degree in Marketing, is ADSA accredited and has won the Yellow Pages award for performance several times. Said Ian, ‘I am delighted to join GEZE UK, they are an industry-leading company that offer a complete service of design, supply and fit of automatic doors.

Andy Iredale, National Sales Manager for Automatic Doors and Window Technology added ‘It’s great to have Ian join the team; he has vast experience across several sectors and will be a great asset to the company. He will be an important part of the company’s continued growth.’ For more information about GEZE UK’s comprehensive range of automatic and manual door and window control products visit www.geze.co.uk

Skyfold Launches Ground-Breaking New Moveable Wall

Skyfold has launched a pioneering, fully automatic, moveable wall solution into the UK. The Skyfold Prisma, which is exclusively available from leading moveable wall specialists, Style, is a new and streamlined glass vertical partition which not only allows light to shine in but does so without the use of any wall or floor tracks, rendering it completely invisible when stored in the ceiling.

“This is a real breakthrough in moveable wall technology from our global manufacturing partners, Skyfold,” said Style’s group managing director, Julian Sargent. “As a fully automated, acoustic glazed moveable wall that stacks into a ceiling cavity, its slim metal frame, clean lines, and sleek design will add elegance and an abundance of light to a wide range of rooms. We see demand being very strong in the corporate, hospitality, education, healthcare, religious and public sectors.”

Skyfold Prisma's glass panels combine with a minimalist frame to allow light penetration into otherwise dark rooms and corridors, creating an open plan feel to any area, positively impacting both mood and productivity. With an impressive 52 Rw dB acoustic rating, Prisma also delivers privacy between divided spaces, allowing confidential meetings, classes, and collaborations to occur simultaneously.

With space always at a premium, the panels of this innovative new partitioning wall cleverly ‘taper’ down into position, making it suitable for restricted areas or where there is potential for obstructions. Further maximising space, when not required, the partition can be quickly retracted into the ceiling cavity where it is neatly stored, completely out of sight.

Skyfold has announced that Prisma is available in a variety of materials including glass, frosted glass and solid panels, with almost any combination being possible. Solid elements can be finished in fabric, vinyl, paint, laminate or even marker-board, allowing a true showcase feature to be created that is both superbly aesthetic as well as highly functional. www.style-partitions.co.uk

Creating Assisted Living Technologies Of The Future

Demonstrating how assisted living technologies can transform lives, advanced solutions from award winning manufacturer and designer, Pressalit, have been chosen to feature in the National Robotarium, the UK’s largest and most advanced centre for robotics and artificial intelligence, which recently opened in Edinburgh.

The Ambient Assisted Living Lab (AAL) within Heriot-Watt University and the University of Edinburgh’s acclaimed National Robotarium, aims to revolutionise the way assisted living care in the UK is delivered in the community using robotics and AI.

With its purpose-built facilities within a recreated home setting, scientists and engineers within the AAL will collaboratively research and create robotic and smart technology solutions in its open and remote access living lab, helping improve the physical and mental wellbeing of people with assisted living needs who want to live independently.

Sharing this ethos of improving people’s wellbeing through design, Pressalit has been leading the way in assisted living technologies for the bathroom and kitchen for almost fifty years. Pressalit was therefore delighted to be asked to contribute to the inspiring work being carried out at the National Robotarium.

Professor Lynne Baillie, head of Human-Robot Interaction at the National Robotarium who leads on research into assistive living technologies says: “The high-spec multi-disciplinary AAL is the ideal setting for our ground-breaking research into the use of robotics and sensor technologies within the home. Through the use of artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), and smart sensors, we are developing technologies that can provide social, cognitive and physical assistance in the home for those who require it, allowing them more freedom, autonomy and independence in their lives.”

“The technology and equipment within the lab, including Pressalit’s clever track systems, which facilitate the movement and adjustment of built-in furniture throughout the different spaces, means we can develop and test our science with real people, emulating their actual homes and living habits, which leads to better and more effective solutions.”

Featured in the AAL is the Pressalit PLUS track system, which allows vertical and horizontal adjustment of different bathroom products. The room can be configured to suit individual user and carer requirements, optimising space for wheelchair or carer access, whilst also future proofing the room. Meanwhile, Pressalit’s height adjustable INDIVO kitchen system brings a sense of independence to daily tasks in the kitchen and dining room.

With a simple press of a button, sink and hob worktop heights can be adjusted to suit standing and seated users, and wall cupboards can be brought within easy reach. Tasks from washing up, cooking and preparing food, to sharing a meal at the table, can be carried out in an environment that is safe, comfortable and inclusive. www.pressalit.com

Troldtekt v-line Is Cutting Edge

Troldtekt’s award-winning ‘design solutions’ range has been extended with the addition of the new v-line variant. v-line 1way and v-line 2way both comprise panels with either 6 or 10 longitudinal grooves milled into the surface of standard 25mm Troldtekt panels.

The v-line 2 has the addition of transverse grooves every 1200mm where the ends of the panels meet giving an added character to the pattern on the ceiling and the ability to create more intricate designs. Cut into a V shape, the grooves in the panels have a more discreet look than that of the traditional deeper-cut offerings in the ‘design solutions’ range which are more pronounced and distinctive and use a thicker 35mm panel.

The ability to have milled lines in a classic, thinner Troldtekt panel means they are easy to handle and competitively priced but still have the same aesthetic and visual appeal. They are a perfect accompaniment for retail, office and residential environments where acoustics need to be controlled.

Certified Cradle-to-Cradle at Gold level, Troldtekt’s natural and inherently sustainable panels offer high sound absorption and tactile surface, coupled with high durability and lowcost lifecycle performance.

Available in various sizes and in four grades from extreme fine to coarse, the panels can be left untreated or painted in virtually any RAL colour. Panels can be supplied in the FSC ® 100% category (FSC ® C115450) contributing to a building’s BREEAM, DGNB and LEED rating.

In addition, because the panels are a natural, breathable material that can absorb and release moisture they are allergy friendly and have been awarded an Allergy Friendly Product Award by Allergy UK. www.troldtekt.co.uk

Acoustic Panels Can Embrace The Extreme

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

Eurobrick Selected By Marks And Spencer For Food Halls

Marks and Spencer is currently undertaking a building programme of new food halls alongside refitting some of its stores throughout the UK. Eurobrick is proud to be supplying I-Clad along with brick slips to Marks & Spencer’s contractors and installers as part of the interior shop fitout. To date, a total of 21 stores, from London to Edinburgh, have been completed using around 1375 m² of I-Clad, Eurobrick’s brick slip system.

I-Clad can be fixed to timber or light gauge steel studs and has a plasterboard panel with a horizontal ribbed profile which aligns and supports the brick slips making the formation of brick courses quick and easy. I-Clad has an installed system depth starting from just 28mm. Using real brick slips, the look and feel of traditional brickwork is achieved but at a fraction of the depth of full bricks. At approximately 50Kg per m², the installed system also poses fewer issues in terms of additional loads, than traditional brickwork.

In the majority of stores, Eurobrick supplied its Red Blue Flamed brick slips, which are a light textured sanded red with a blue, grey multi-effect, creating a consistent design style. www.eurobrick.co.uk

Radiators Work With Low Temperature Systems

Leading radiator manufacturer Stelrad is seeing its radiators being specified more and more for renewable heating systems as the popularity of heat pumps rises. Radiators are still a popular and sensible choice as homeowners are familiar with how they heat their homes, and when properly sized, they are the perfect solution to share heat from heat pump installations. All radiators should be sized correctly for the rooms they are installed in and Stelrad offer a free radiator sizing and heat loss calculator on its website.

You will require larger radiators for a renewable, low temperature system than you would for a traditional boiler driven heating system because the water flow temperature in the system is lower. But that can mean a larger radiator possibly a vertical radiator, or one of the increasingly popular K3 radiators – with three panels and three fins –with the same radiator footprint for a room as a current K2 radiator, but with 50% additional metal surface to provide increased heat levels. Stelrad has invested hugely in developing its range of radiators to ensure it can offer radiators that provide sufficient heat from renewable heating systems, a fact supported by the high number of new build developers that have already decided to stick with radiators as their key form of heat emitter and there are plenty of case studies to show how effectively this works.

Stelrad has gone to the trouble of devising a specialist CPD for the business to provide facts and figures and evidence-based information to help installers and specifiers to choose the right products for their installations: “We’re suggesting that installers rely on hard facts and figures rather than misleading statements that are circulating in the heating sector,” says Stelrad's head of Marketing, Chris Harvey. www.stelrad.com

Pioneering Acoustilay Sets The Quality Standard For Soundproofing Floors

More than 25 years after Acoustilay was launched, the premium, UK-made, acoustic flooring system for floors continues to set the standard for product quality, ease of installation and sound reduction potential. Manufactured by acoustic experts, Sound Reduction Systems, the Acoustilay range of products can be laid under a wide variety of floor finishes, including carpets, laminates, solid wood, vinyl and even tiled floors.

Available in four different grades, including the new Acoustilay Tilemat product, it remains the most specified soundproofing treatment of its kind due its quality, versatility and the wealth of technical and acoustic data behind it. While all Acoustilay products provide excellent impact noise performance resulting from footsteps, dropped items and moving furniture, the heavier grades of Acoustilay 8 and 15 are also able to reduce airborne noise transmission such as television, music and speech.

Acoustilay can be used to meet the requirements of Part E of the Building Regulations, ‘resistance to the passage of sound’, in both new build and conversion projects. An animated installation guide can be viewed on the Sound Reduction Systems website, where all fitting instructions can also be found Acoustilay is 100% sourced and manufactured in the UK using recyclable content. It is supplied in 1200mm x 1200mm sheets, in thicknesses of 10mm, 12mm and 15mm to suit a variety of soundproofing objectives. www.soundreduction.co.uk

Introducing Shopkit’s Range Of Reception Screens: Security And Covid-19 Protection

If you’re looking for virus blocking screens to improve hygiene in your office or reception area designs, Shopkit’s range of high quality reception screens are the perfect choice to block virus particles including Covid-19 and keep your receptionists or other staff safe.

Designed for use in all types of offices and reception areas, including doctors and dentists surgeries, Shopkit's glass reception screens can be specified as new or even retro-fitted to existing areas.

The screens are manufactured from 8mm thick toughed glass PAR panels, with 27mm diameter posts, which can be specified to either mild steel powder coated to any RAL colour, or stain polish stainless steel.

The panels can be fixed either to counter or 100mm off counter, and can include CNC polished notches or cut outs for access. The panels can be fixed to the desk either from the top or the underside.

Reception screens can be specified to be either in a straight line on a reception desk, U-shaped or to fit around a curved desk. If the screens are to be fixed to the desk only, a maximum panel height of 900mm is required for stability, but Shopkit can also fix posts from desk to ceiling allowing for higher panels.

Shopkit can offer a full start to finish service, including a site survey and installation; or they can simply supply panels to your specification or drawings. All of their products are manufactured at their UK factory and design studio.

Get in touch with one of the team at Shopkit if you would like any more information or to discuss project requirements. www.shopkit.com

Imaginative And Integrated Interior Design, Vicaima Makes It Real!

Vicaima, as one of the leading European exponents of contemporary joinery solutions, including interiors doors, doorsets, wall panels and associated furniture products, have just introduced a new brand for professionals called Infinity.

Combining their extensive experience within this sector with the latest technological advancements in image realisation, they present a major step forward for the world of interior design, enabling creative vision to be made real, with imaginative design composition that encompasses multiple elements.

No longer constrained by conventional limitations, Infinity provides scope for interior design professionals to think beyond what they thought was possible, towards what they would ideally like to achieve.

Whether creating a theme that brings rhythm and repetition, or a more dramatic and contrasting vision with pronounced statement pieces, Infinity can make it real. Infinity permits almost endless possibilities when it comes to visual aspect, with choice of colour, tone, pattern and even the perception of texture.

This enables interior designers and specifiers complete flexibility when aiming to deliver bespoke project solutions. However, for those professionals looking for insight from the Vicaima experts in trends and fashions, Infinity’s top three collections offer a myriad of fresh inspiration.

Select from either wood, stone or metal for an immersive experience which includes among many others, Spalted Maple, Terrazo Amber and Antique Patina. Once the design and hues have been chosen, it is then a matter of selecting which joinery elements can be combined to reflect the desired theme.

Here Infinity broadens horizons and uniquely permits creators to match and play with individual pieces in a way that has traditionally been limited. Blending integral building elements such as interior door assemblies and decorative wall panels, with more ephemeral components like wardrobes and furniture to achieve the perfect balance. While flexible aesthetic design is the hallmark of Infinity, it should not be forgotten that as a Vicaima brand, superior quality and performance are integral to all elements.

Exceeding industry recognised standards and in the case of doors and doorkits, third part fire accredited to both TRADA and the British Woodworking Federation, all products are environmentally produced and FSC certificated. Infinity marks a new era in design for interiors, whether in public, commercial or residential applications.

Expanding, evolving and elevating both the creative process and eventual project realisation by combining visionary image technology with industry leading joinery manufacture, to achieve outstanding results. www.vicaimainfinity.com

Crittall’s West End Success

Recently completed is the refurbishment of a substantial mixed-use building in the plush Fitzrovia/ Marylebone area of central London. Crittall Windows made a significant contribution to both the aesthetic and sustainability of the seven-storey Devonshire House that commands the corner of Devonshire and Great Portland Streets. The refurbishment, designed by architects Robson Warren, upgraded the building’s green credentials by the installation of T60 thermally broken steel windows.

The high-performance steel fenestration comfortably surpasses the requirements of current legislation while satisfying the designer’s desire to maintain heritage characteristics. The area around Great Portland Street was developed in the 18th century with fine Georgian houses and, although these were replaced in the 19 th and early 20th centuries, the newer office blocks that took their place often sought to retain the period features.

The black powder-coated T60 windows in Devonshire House, provided in both inward and outward opening configurations, have been fitted with glazing bars to mimic the Georgian-style panes that were a prominent feature in the period façade of the building. www.crittall-windows.co.uk

Don’t Panic - Strand Hardware Makes Emergency Hardware Specification

Simple

Strand Hardware is taking the panic out of buying emergency exit solutions by outlining key considerations for specification. It urges customers to put ‘safety first’ – prioritising functionality, quality, and performance at the head of decisionmaking. CE marked products for fire and escape doors are a must for architects and specifiers and best practice determines that products comply with Construction Product Regulations. Strand Hardware’s Antipanic Emergency Exit and Panic range meet these requirements.

In an emergency or panic situation, they release exit doors by means of a push bar, touch bar or a push pad on outward opening single or double doors. For day-to-day use, doors can be opened from the outside with an outside access device. “When an emergency door can be locked or opened from the outside, it should still be freely released from inside – maintaining security without compromising its basic panic function,” said Strand Hardware MD Steve Marshall. He urges specifiers to identify suitable solutions by considering:

1. Product range - Strand Hardware offers PH (modular push bar/push pad range), PHT (touch bar range), PHTM (motorised touch bar range) options. Selection criteria is provided by the EN standards EN1125 and EN179 and should reflect occupancy levels. Other matters to be considered include creating clear opening requirements, how the door is intended to be used, whether it is fire resisting, the operating environment etc. Aesthetics and budget will also have a place, but these are secondary to the life safety aspect.

2. Door/frame material and design -Different strikes are used to suit various door materials and construction. For PVCU doors and frames, a range of profile related strikes are available for which the system manufacturer and profile model is needed. Glass doors require patch fittings to

suit the escape device and door construction. Whether the doors are fire-resisting and how the door is hung will also have a bearing.

3. Locking latch arrangement and number -Single and three-point locking latches are available across all the ranges with the ability to convert on site from three point to two point in the most cases. Factors to be considered include whether the door is single or double, construction, material and size. For double doors requiring escape through both leaves, it is critical that whichever door leaf is operated it must open and whether the doors are rebated through the lock stile section/overlapping plates or are plain edged.

4. Outside access - External access can be provided by a mechanical outside access device, using a key, push button digital combination and in most cases either a lever handle or knob. Again, thought needs to be given to how the door is to be used. Most electronic access control can be accommodated by use of an internal motorised touch bar.

5. Size of door -Door widths and heights should be checked before ordering as many wider and taller doors can be catered for from stock by use of wider crossbars, wider model touch bars and extra-long rod kits.

6. Finish - Powder coated white and black finishes are available from stock along with the standard silver grey, which have the option of a green cross bar. A decorative plated satin stainless steel finish and simulated polished brass are available for many ranges. Where a high degree of corrosion resistance is necessary the DFine grade 316 stainless steel is available. Many other finishes can be provided to special order.

www.strandhardware.co.uk

Contemporary Access For York Flexible Work-Space

Completed to a high standard throughout, Independence House offers multi-purpose office space on the outskirts of York. Delivering an impressive frontage, TORMAX was contracted by Frostree Ltd to install a 3-wing revolving door to the main entrance. Manually operated, the door reflects a focus of the development to maintain a low carbon footprint, whilst still ensuring smooth and unhindered pedestrian access.

A revolving door has the added advantage of reducing heat-loss from the building, with one door leaf creating a barrier between the reception and the outdoors, at all times. Independence House is a new build development from the family-owned residential and commercial property development company, London Ebor Developments plc. Working with Vincent & Brown architects and GEM Construction, the resulting superior office space provides a range of flexible options including leased, serviced and virtual offices, coworking spaces, hot desking as well as a choice of meeting rooms available for pre-booking.

“A revolving door delivers timeless sophistication to any façade,” comments Simon Roberts, MD for TORMAX UK Ltd. “The smooth, light-touch operation of a TORMAX manual revolving door makes for a welcoming entrance for all workers and visitors to Independence House.” www.tormax.co.uk

Selectaglaze Curved On Plan Units Create A Splash At Kidderpore Hall

Working with Mount Anvil, a swimming pool area in a Grade II Listed home has been restored to its former grandeur, with the assistance of Selectaglaze sealed units and curved on plan secondary glazing. Kidderpore Hall sits looking over North London, in what was referred to as the Childs Hill neighborhood of Hampstead; once a relatively rural area. It has been beautifully reimagined through extensive refurbishment and brought back to a livable state as a single family home.

One of the areas of the house which needed particular attention was a new pool and spa area in the basement. The original single glazed sash windows did little to provide heat retention. Selectaglaze secondary glazing was chosen to assist in upgrading the thermal insulation in this Grade II Listed building. To ensure maximum U-values were gained in this exposed corner of the building, 24mm double sealed secondary glazed units were required with obscure glass to provide privacy. Six window and one door were treated with Series 41 side hung casements, glazed with 4-16-4 gas filled sealed units. However, to match the sightlines of the bay window framing the jacuzzi, curved on plan units were specified. www.selectaglaze.co.uk

Profab Access Adds A Five Star Finish To Cardiff’s Newest Luxury Hotel

Leading riser door and access panel solution supplier, Profab Access, has proven its first-class credentials once again as part of the recent completion of a major specification at Cardiff’s new 5-star Parkgate hotel. Located next to the Welsh Capital’s famous Principality Stadium, the Parkgate hotel has been designed to provide a luxurious experience for rugby fans, in addition to city dwellers visiting the country all year round.

Widely coined as Cardiff’s most lavish new location, the hotel includes 170 guest bedrooms and suites, a signature restaurant and bar, a traditional tea lounge and a rooftop spa overlooking the city skyline. As

part of the prestigious build, a unique collaboration between the Welsh Rugby Union, property developer, Rightacres, and The Celtic Collection, the hotel required an extensive riser door specification, with safety, high performance and aesthetic appeal key considerations.

In total, 310 Profab Access VEGA 1500 Fire Rated Riser Doors were specified for installation by Hazelwood Carpentry throughout every part of the building, including communal areas and the hotel’s vast range of luxury guest rooms and suites. The VEGA 1500 Series Riser Doors offer the highest standards of fire safety, extensively tested by Efectis in France and Ireland to provide a bidirectionally fire tested product that is available in both single and double door configurations.

This means the riser door sets are fire tested from both sides to 60 minutes, providing the specifiers, contractors and hotel guests residing within the building with confidence the critical fire integrity products offer the highest standard and most up to date evidence for fire safety performance. The range also features a slimline, neat construction, whilst its proven technology ensures permanent, safe access to mechanical and electrical services housed within the riser core.

This provides first class functionality and safety, without compromising the overall interior concept. The steel riser doors also streamlined the installation process, as the quick release pivot hinge and light weight enabled easy handling, allowing Hazelwood Carpentry to complete the job quickly and optimise overall project efficiencies.

In the event of a fire, the VEGA 1500 Series Riser Door sets will maintain the frame and integrity for up to 60 minutes, preventing the spread of fire throughout the property for this

period of time. The riser doors are 31dB acoustic rated, smoke sealed and airtight to Part L, whilst also featuring intumescent smoke seals that enable occupants to safely exit the building. By specifying bi-directionally fire tested VEGA 1500 Series Riser Doors, the development is actively future proofed as the comprehensive testing certification provides a complete and transparent audit trail of due diligence that evidences the products are not only fit for purpose but meet the duty of care required to ensure legal compliance.

Profab Access’ diverse portfolio of riser doors and access panels are supported by a wide range of BIM Level 2 and CAD files to aid the specification process and streamline the initial design stages. Manufactured at Profab Access’ Atherstone headquarters in accordance with ISO 9001, the 1500 Series Riser Doors can be specified and installed in a range of configurations to meet each project’s specific measurements and requirements. www.profabaccess.com

Crittall Windows – I’ll Drink To That!

A Cornish brewery has moved into renovated premises that give visitors a whole new experience of watching the creation of their favourite beers with Crittall Windows playing a crucial role in the new concept. Verdant Brewery took over a rundown warehouse on a Penryn industrial estate and, in addition to installing the brewing vats, created 400 sq. metres for staff offices and a space for public use, dubbed the Taproom.

The new interior was created around a steelframed installation with Crittall Corporate W20 windows providing a light and contemporary area where visitors can have a beer and something to eat while enjoying views through to the working brewery, a paramount consideration of the client.

In addition, The Taproom provides a mezzanine balcony overlooking an area that can also be used for entertainment from a DJ or with live music. The design was produced by locallybased architects Zelah Studio.

Said architect James Collins; “We used the W20 system as it allowed great flexibility and a quality industrial look that the client wanted. Large expanses of the glazing allowed us to create views of the brewery from all spaces.”

www.crittall-windows.co.uk

Rundum Original Meets Bavarian Brief For Contemporary Elegance

Every timber door created here by Rundum Meir’s craftsmen and women is formed in a way that maximises consistency in the woodgrain across the width of the door for the ultimate end-result.

The company also provided the technology to automate the door operation too, utilising Rundum Meir’s sophisticated and reliable automation system. This will give the property owners long term peace of mind regarding operational reliability and security.

To find out more about Rundum Meir bespoke garage doors and how they can provide the ideal solution in outstanding contemporary architecture, visit www.rundum.co.uk

A Rundum Meir slide sliding door spanning 11m has provided the ideal solution for a stunning contemporary new build dwelling in northern Bavaria. The architect-led project has created an extensive new home on a site near the town of Neumarkt adjacent to mature woodland.

Linear in its form, the property’s main three storey block features large areas of full-height glazing to the upper floors which is shielded by external timber fins, assisting with shading but also adding a natural aesthetic feature.

These timber elements blend comfortably with the local stone masonry to achieve superb aesthetics and make this property a stunning example of modern European architecture. And one of the most visible timber elements is the simple, elegant 11 m wide single direction Rundum Original side sliding door made from Larch.

The brief was to provide a door that capable of spanning a four-bay garage and be consistent with the rest of the timber used throughout the property. This was perfectly suited to Rundum Meir, who manufacture every garage door specifically to meet a project’s requirements, which in this case was to use sustainably sourced Larch. This door was hand-made at Rundum Meir’s manufacturing centre near Munich.

LG Launches New Therma V Monobloc ‘S’ Heat Pump

Leading heat pump manufacturer LG has launched the latest version of its sector leading Therma V Monobloc air to water heat pump – the Therma V R32 Monobloc ‘S’ – into a UK marketplace that is highly responsive to new heat pump technology. The ‘S’ stands for ‘Silence’ and ‘Supreme’ to highlight its reduced noise level and best performance criteria.

The new monobloc is a frontline contender for providing heating and hot water for social housing developments as well as private new build homes. As with the original Monobloc, this new model combines the indoor and outdoor features in one module. It’s also connected by only water piping, eliminating the need for refrigerant piping, making this heat pump an installer’s dream when it comes to ease of installation.

Hydronic components like the improved plate heat exchanger, the expansion tank, water pump, flow sensor, pressure sensor, air vent valve and safety valve are all built in - inside the outdoor unit – pre-installed and ready to run. And the R32 Monobloc ‘S’ provides excellent heating performance especially at low ambient temperatures whilst lowering its carbon emissions even more with the use of R32.

The innovative design and technology in this new unit sees built in water flow and pressure sensors to monitor the water circuit in real time, advanced water pump control, enhanced second circuit logic, energy monitoring of estimated power consumption

via the remote controller, MODBUS connectivity without Gateway if required and advanced control for the domestic hot water recirculation pump.

LG equipment is justly renowned in the industry for its controllers and the new Monobloc ‘S’ is equipped with a new advanced remote controller which supports a number of functions. It comes with a premium design 4.3-inch colour LCD monitor, user friendly interface that uses simple graphic, icon and text controls, easy schedule and installer settings and energy monitoring without meter interface to provide estimated power consumption figures.

It is possible to monitor not only the temperature of the water circuit but also the flow rate and the pressure. This information provides installers with more reliable information for installation and maintenance. The original version was extremely quiet, but this new ‘S’ version is even quieter and up to 9kW units can be installed at the minimum of 4 metres away, and up to 16kW units - up to 5 metres away from neighbouring houses complying with international noise regulations.

The unit comes with a Seasonal Coefficient of Performance of up to 4.67 (Average climate/Low temperature application) and a A+++ rating. The COP rises to 4.9 (Outdoor air 7°C/Leaving water temperature 35°C) and can deliver leaving water temperature of 65°C if required. For more information on the new LG Therma V Monobloc ‘S’ head for partner.lge.com/uk, or email LG at uk.aircon@lge.com.

Omnie Whole-House Solution For Devon Barn Conversions

The conversion of three stone-built agricultural buildings near the beautiful Devon town of Totnes is employing a full selection of renewable and low-energy technologies from the range of Exeter based manufacturer, OMNIE, to create a comfortable living environment for the new occupants. The hundred year old buildings at Ritson Farm are being renovated and turned into highly desirable rural retreats.

Each of the luxury homes is to be heated by an LV air source heat pump, which will be connected via multi-branch manifolds to OMNIE’s Staple underfloor heating system across the ground floors with the company’s LowBoard being specified to warm the upper levels. Then to maximise fuel efficiency and help guarantee a healthy indoor living environment, a constant supply of pre-warmed and filtered fresh air will be supplied via one of OMNIE’s Zehnder ComfoAir mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) units.

The Totnes conversions vividly demonstrate how high efficiency heat pumps, combined with underfloor heating developed to bring the best performance from them, can heat any home and keep fuel consumption to a minimum. Coupled with the ComfoAir MVHR units, the development also illustrates OMNIE’s capabilities to design and deliver its ‘Whole-House” concept, with a nationwide service able to assist clients with any type of application. www.omnie.co.uk

Heating Controls - The Easiest Route To More Energy And Cost Savings

Effective heating controls are a vital part of an efficient central-heating system. Heating controls manufacturer ESi says it makes huge sense to look more closely at the options. ESi offers a range of programmers from a simple 1 Channel version to a 3 channel Multi-Purpose Programmer which enables the housing provider to comply with Part L of the Building Regulations by providing separate timed heating control for living and sleeping zones in a home, whilst also providing timed control of hot water.

These programmers also feature a “Landlord” option to encourage social housing tenants to allow access for annual maintenance. ESi has developed a unique new electronic dual Cylinder Thermostat - a revolutionary new energy saving product. It is a direct and economical replacement for traditional mechanical dual cylinder thermostats. It offers real safety and energy saving benefits and provides accurate temperature control with a clear and informative LCD display. Hot water can be stored at any temperature between 25 and 65 degrees C.

It has the added advantage of a weekly automatic one hour “boost” that can be set at a time that is best for the homeowners. Most homes in the UK still tend to have a single heating zone – and the only control in the rooms is by thermostatic radiator valves. When a new central-heating system is installed, it's possible to fit a full zone control that has different pipe loops and separate thermostats for two or more areas. This can offer significant energy savings. www.esicontrols.co.uk.

A Solution To The ‘Energy Cost Scrum’ For Many Rugby Clubs

When Brigton Football Club (R.F.U.), or ‘Brighton Blues’, a Rugby Club playing their rugby at Level 5 of the National Pyramid, were working on their accounts and monthly cash flows, the cost of electricity stood out like a sore thumb. Electricity costs had almost doubled in a year; and this was before the recent surge in electricity costs, with further, significant increases forecast in the months ahead.

Off the grid at their ground alongside the A27 London Road to the north of Brighton, they were 100% reliant on electricity to heat the Club House and more importantly heat the hot water for the regular showers required after each match. The Club House, built in 1992 had acquired the name ‘the fridge’ in the coldest months of the year. Reliant on archaic storage heaters that could not heat the Club House area, it was an expensive waste of money. The hot water for the showers was provided via 18kW immersion heaters, heating two huge 2500 litre lagged copper tanks. Due to lime scale build up, these were not working to full efficiency. A third 300 litre cylinder heated water for the referees’ showers, the kitchens and the Club House toilets and was heated by a 3kW immersion heater.

The hot water had to be turned on for 36 hours from cold to achieve the levels of heated water required – a cost of close on £210 per week for the two large cylinders –nearly £11,000 a year. With limited thermostat control, the water for showers was heated at around 80°C and had to be cooled via mixing valves with cold water to bring the temperature down to around 40°C via the pipework for when the showers were taken. For one game or four, all the water had to be heated every time there was a game. Simply put - very expensive and very wasteful.

Chairman of Mini & Youth at Brighton Rugby and owner of local company BB Heat Pumps is Paul Dunk. He and son Alfie are heating experts and after a lengthy discussion about the options for reducing the heating and hot water costs with the Club, they set about thinking through the heating dilemma.

After more than three decades of working within the heating industry, BB Heat Pumps is looking towards the future and are now considered experts in the renewable energy field. Based in Brighton, East Sussex, BB Heat Pumps are fully trained and qualified Installation Engineers, specialising in Air-Source Heat Pumps. They hold their own MCS Accreditation* – the Gold Standard in the Industry. Being a member of MCS demonstrates their adherence to defined Industry Standards and gives their clients confidence in their ability and compliance.

Paul & Alfie designed a system based around air source heat pumps to solve the club’s predicament. They talked

to Caspar Speakman at Unitherm Heating Systems, the largest distributor of heat pumps for leading manufacturer LG in the UK. They designed a system that would see air source heat pumps heating the water using the existing cylinders for both the showers and the club house itself via a number of brand-new radiators. The bar area was heated up to 12 degrees C at all times, boosted to 18 degrees C from 4pm and up to 20 degrees C for match days. This has already been well received by the players and members of the Club. Heating costs will fall further once planned additional levels of insulation are installed in the Club House making it even warmer and cost effective to heat.

BB Heat Pumps installed two 14kW LG Therma V air to water heat pumps, installing a concrete base outside the back of the club house on which the heat pump external units stand. They designed and installed a system in the club house plant room that saw the heat from the pumps circulate through the pipework

and via two individual plate heat exchangers into the cylinders to heat up the water. Instead of the 80°C plus temperatures the old immersion heaters used to heat to, these heated the water to 55°C saving significantly on the lost heat from the cylinders.

The 5000 litres of water in the tanks is needed due to the volume of water required for the showers. BB Heat Pumps had to incorporate elements from the old traditional system, designing a system that didn’t have to replace everything and could keep the large cylinders in place along with the ‘domestic’ tanks in the loft space.

As a result, they incorporated the two custom made plate heat exchangers from UK Heat Exchangers to transfer the heat generated from the heat pumps across to the cold feed of the two 2500 litre cylinders to act as a ‘pre-heat’ circulation via a bronze pump.

The immediate benefits of the new system are clear. The old system was costing just short of £210 per weekend in electricity. After three weekends of usage, LG heat pump 2 - which is hot water only - has used £48-64 of electricity as opposed to the old system that would have cost c£104 a weekend, multiplied by the three weekends – a total of £312– a saving of £262 over the threeweek period.

The £207 a week incurred by the old system was just for the showers – it didn’t include the cost of the kitchen, toilets and heating. LG Heat Pump 1 - which heats the other 2500 litre cylinder, the 300 litre cylinder that services the referees showers, kitchens, WC’s and the central heating for the club house - has used £272 in the same three week period – around £90 a week - less than just heating one large cylinder for a single weekend prior to the new installation.

Instead of having to turn the immersion heaters on 36 hours before showers were needed, for a two o’clock kick off match where the showers are needed at 4pm, the timer switches the immersion on at 3pm and gives the tanks an hour-long water temperature boost – highlighting the financial benefits of heating up warm tanks rather than starting from cold. This boost is also needed of course to address concerns relating to Legionella in standing water tanks, and the boost ensures bacteria is killed at the higher temperature. www.unitherm.co.uk and www.bbheatpumps.co.uk

Energy Crisis Fuels Growth For Foam Sealants In 2023, Says Sector Leader

The energy crisis will ‘significantly fuel’ growth for window and door foam sealant tapes in 2023, according to Andy Swift, sales and operations manager for ISO-Chemie. He sees the UK market remaining robust over the next 12 months with the need for more effective insulation and sealing solutions of windows and doors becoming a rapid priority in the design, specification, new build housing and wider commercial construction sectors.

Refurbishment of existing housing stock is also expected to support growth in 2023, says Andy Swift, as retrofitting sealing solutions can be a more effective way to achieve greater energy efficient homes rather than building new properties. Indeed, national housing associations such as Broadacres Housing Association and Gateshead Housing have been upgrading their current stock with new door and window installations sealed by foam tapes.

In the modular sector, house designers will continue to invest in new ways to deliver low carbon structures, which use sustainable technologies such as foam sealant tapes to secure measurable airtight, acoustic and thermal sealing benefits.

Andy Swift said with energy rated and conservation products at the forefront of design and building regulations, there has to be ‘discernible’ growth for air tightness and thermal sealing products. “With 25% of the heat leaking from around windows will be paramount for all in the construction and building sectors to effectively seal around the window to wall gap,” he said.

“Millions of people will struggle to heat their homes and stay warm, but through the use of modern foam sealants to create a thermal and airtight seal around the window, the amount of heat loss around frames is significantly reduced, helping to save energy costs.” MMC (modern methods of construction) will gain further traction as 2023 unfolds, which will lead to the continued integration of foam tapes with the more traditional methods of building, enabling developers to bring forward projects more expediently, Andy Swift said.

He added: “Retrofitting properties with products like Winframer, Vario SD and BLOCO ONE becomes a direct focus for property developers and housing associations and is a cost-effective way to insulate existing properties very quickly. As they say the greenest home is one already built. It just needs proper retrofit insulation.”

House building to higher air and thermal standards remains a priority, Andy Swift said - and is a message that will continued to be pushed in the coming months to architects and other property specifiers: “There are effective products out there to ensure that airtightness and thermal efficiency within buildings should never be overlooked or ignored - it’s a matter of designing in these products.” www.iso-chemie.eu/en-GB/home/

Three Things To Consider When Specifying Roof Access Hatches

When choosing roof access hatches for commercial or residential projects, there are a number of factors that must be addressed at the initial design stages in order to not only achieve a successful specification, but also deliver safe and sufficient access for the entire lifecycle of the building. Here Tony Stevens, Technical Estimator at Bilco UK, discusses which factors should be taken into consideration when selecting Roof Access Hatches:

1) Purpose for access - Whether for the education, healthcare, leisure or commercial sectors, roof access hatches are required to provide permanent and secure access to the roof area. In order to make sure you’re choosing the correct system to meet your project’s unique requirements, you must first identify the main reason for requiring access to the roof.

Is it purely for maintenance reasons? Or will a safe means of access also be required for the regular installation or removal of equipment from the roof? Here you should also identify what tools and equipment will need to be transferred through the access hatch, or whether it will just be the individual themselves that is conducting the necessary work.

2) Frequency and product specification - Once you have established your reason for requiring safe access to the roof, you will then be able to make an informed choice regarding which roof access hatch and corresponding ladder system is best suited to meet the needs of your project.

It is important to specify the correct Roof Access Hatch and Ladder combination to ensure that access from the ladder, through the roof access hatch, is as safe as possible. For example, a small roof access hatch should be accessed via a fixed vertical ladder, which is also the most suitable option for projects where space is limited.

Alternatively, if you use a companionway ladder or a retractable ladder, the roof access hatch length must be extended to around 1500 mm to provide for easy and safe access.

However, here it should be noted that a minimum head clearance of 120mm is required and that the maximum single climb is no more than three metres, in accordance with BS4211- 7.2. Regardless of the size of the roof access hatch, the system should be operated easily and safely with one hand, in accordance with the requirements outlined within the Manual Handling Regulations, enabling the individual to maintain three points of contact with the fixed ladder.

During the installation process, the ladder must be positioned opposite the hinge to ensure safe and unobstructed access. If access to the roof is required on a regular basis for professionals that will have to transfer tools and equipment through the hatch, a Fixed Staircase Roof Access Hatch, also known as a Service Stair Roof Access Hatch, should be specified with a Companionway Ladder or a Fixed Staircase.

It should here be noted that the roof hatch must be sufficient to maintain a head clearance of 2000mm, as detailed in Building Regulations Part K.

3) Bespoke requirements - To ensure all the criteria are successfully met, you should also consider whether a custom made roof access hatch should be chosen to ensure each of these areas is adequately fulfilled.

This includes options such as Bilco UK’s SKY Flatglass, which functions as both a Roof Access Hatch or a Smoke Ventilator, and is supplied with a clear, translucent lid to enable natural daylight into specific areas of the building, without impeding the functionality and accessibility of the hatch.

Increased access opening sizes or double leaf configurations should also be explored where access is required for larger items of equipment or tools. Motorised options also allow the individual to safely maintain contact with the ladder when entering or exiting the hatch. All installations should be subject to individual Risk Assessments.

Comprehensive training should also be provided for all professionals, supported by Method Statements regarding safe and correct use of the access solutions installed. For further information on Bilco UK’s roof access solutions, visit www.bilcouk.co.uk or call 01284 701696.

For advice on how to specify the correct ladder, visit: https://www. bilcouk.co.uk/news/specifying-ladders For further information on specifying the right roof access hatch for your upcoming project, download Bilco UK’s free guide: https://www.bilcouk.co.uk/ files/downloads/choosing-the-rightaccess-hatch-bilco.pdf

Howe Green On The Right Track With Crossrail Contractor, DMC Contracts

As Europe’s largest current infrastructure project, spanning over 60 miles via 41 different stations, the Elizabeth line will transform rail transport for London, with annual expected passenger levels reaching 200 million. The landmark project has seen the construction of 42km of new tunnels and the development of 10 new stations, with 31 existing stations also undergoing extensive upgrades.

As part of the formation of the central line, which spans from Westbourne Park to Plumstead and Pudding Mill Lane, official Crossrail contractor and one of the UK’s leading fit-out contractors, DMC Contracts, has installed over 1,500 Howe Green Floor Access Covers throughout seven stations. This includes Whitechapel, Farringdon, Paddington, Bond Street, West Ealing, Ealing Broadway and Acton Mainline, where over the last five years DMC Contract’s team of engineers have also installed over 30,000 square metres of Terrazzo and Granazzo floor tiles.

Howe Green’s 7500 Series stainless steel Floor Access Covers have been installed throughout the ticket halls, walkways and main concourses of each station to provide engineers with secure and concealed access to underfloor services, whilst the tamper proof construction also prevents unauthorised access. This is due to the cover’s unique design, which features unobtrusive barrel cover

lifting points that can only be accessed with specific lifting and securing keys. As only the securing bolt and barrel edge are visible, the covers provide the highest standards of security, without impacting on the overall design scheme or presenting a potential trip hazard.

Manufactured to BS 476: Part 22, the 7500 Series provides resistance to fire and smoke for up to two hours, providing the highest standards in safety, performance and compliance throughout all seven stations. With each floor access cover withstanding up to five tonne pneumatic tyre wheel loads, the 7500 Series was also supplied in a range of configurations, including singles, multiparts and ducts, to provide unobstructed access to rodding points and winch systems and electrical pits throughout all areas of the stations.

As the lifting blocks are anchored to the inner frame, the floor access covers can be handled easily and safely by contractors, reducing any potential disruption to passenger’s travel as the maintenance can be conducted quickly and safely. www.howegreen.com

Magply Boards’ Performance Approved For Reading Apartment Building

Hundreds of square metres of 9mm Magply boards are currently being installed on an apartment development close to Reading’s commercial centre, after the specialist package contractor involved proposed the high performance MgO panel as an alternative to the original product specified, representing a value engineering solution. O Conner Drylining Ltd is renewing a working relationship with Henry Construction Projects Ltd (HCPL) on Phase 1 of work at the former retail site in Weldale Street, being carried out on behalf of developer, Crossmark.

Containing 250 new homes, the five-storey concrete framed structure features an infill of a Metsec style steel framing system at 600mm centres, reducing around window openings. O Conner Drylining’s operatives then screw fix the Magply boards to the light gauge steel, along with a vertical EPDM, ready for the brickwork elevations to be built, using channels fixed through the sheathing. Magply MgO boards present a fire-safe and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional plywood or OSB products.

Additionally, the unique production process keeps the chloride content to just 0.01 % , enhancing both stability and long-term durability. The different thicknesses of panel are also widely used as a substrate board for the direct application of proprietary render systems, as well as for flooring and flat or pitched roof build-ups. www.magply.co.uk

Wraptite® Helps Dublin Hospital Promote Healthy Buildings

The Wraptite® external air barrier system from the A. Proctor Group is achieving an efficient airtightness solution at two new-build extensions to the Connolly Hospital in Dublin. The Wraptite system is the only self-adhering vapour permeable air barrier certified by the BBA. It combines the critical properties of vapour permeability and airtightness in one selfadhering membrane.

The high vapour permeability of the Wraptite air barrier allows the substrate beneath to dry quickly and moisture vapour to escape and reduces the likelihood of mould, mildew, condensation, timber distortion and metal corrosion. The Wraptite System was installed as an external air barrier and alternative to a traditional standard breather membrane. The use of conventional membranes would have required mechanical fixing and added to the installation time.

As an alternative, the Wraptite self-adhesive membrane was applied externally, quickly and easily to the external steel frame in continuous pieces. Positioning an air barrier on the outside of the structural frame simplifies the process of maintaining the envelope’s integrity, with fewer building services and structural penetrations to be sealed. www.proctorgroup.com

Marmox Thermoblocks Cutting Carbon For Social Housing Residents

Work is well underway on the first phase of an affordable housing project for Somerset West and Taunton Council, where the use of Marmox Thermoblocks was put forward by specialist developer, Equans Regeneration which is leading the work on the site in Taunton. Phase A of North Taunton Woolaway Project will see the construction of 47 new one, two and three bedroom properties with energy saving and the reduction of environmental impact both being given full consideration.

The issue of thermal bridging, in particular, is being addressed through the decision to utilise the highly insulating Thermoblocks around the perimeter of the ground floor slabs. With over 200 homes to be built in the next few years, the total number of Thermoblocks required will run into the thousands. Each length of Thermoblock is comprised of ultra-high performance XPS insulation, encapsulating miniature epoxy concrete columns, while the top and bottom are covered by alkali resistant glass-fibre mesh, retaining a surface of fibre reinforced polymer concrete to facilitate bonding.

The concrete columns have a very low conductivity, so do not present thermal bridges themselves and when coupled with the highly insulating XPS insulation core, a combined thermal conductivity of 0.47W/mK is achieved. Crucially, being able to employ a defined, very low thermal transmittance – derived by thermal modelling or measurement – offers a far more advantageous result than adopting the ‘default’ figure offered in SAP, which can often result in non-compliance under Part L. www.marmox.co.uk

Firefly™ Apollo Lite Creating Half Hour Fire Barriers In New Research Building

A specialist contractor undertaking all of the fireproofing within a new medical research building in Surrey has been making use of two well proven, flexible fire barrier products from the TBA’s FIREFLY™ range, to provide 30 minutes protection within the majority of the ceiling voids throughout the four-storey structure. CLM Fireproofing has established a reputation as a leader in the fields of both passive fire protection and fire-stopping.

CLM is employing Apollo Lite and the Collaroll product in tandem to protect the ceiling voids. The spaces which typically house pipework, power cables and air conditioning units above the suspended ceiling grid, are provided with 30 minutes integrity and insulation through the installation of the flexible Apollo Lite barrier.

The Apollo Lite 30/30 has been developed for use in vertical separation or compartmentation situations, offering both 30 minutes integrity and insulation, thereby exceeding the minimum requirements of the Building Regulations. It is widely specified to form fire barriers within roof voids in many different property types. The flexible woven material is easy to cut and fix and is chemically treated to improve its cooling properties, and therefore prevent temperatures rising in adjoining areas. The system has been fully tested to BS 476 Parts 6.7, 20 & 22 and is third party certified by IFCC. www.tbafirefly.com

Safe One Specified To Maximise Fire Safety At Re-Cladding Project

ITP has supplied Safe One, the UK’s most advanced breather wall and roof membrane, for a façade upgrade project at Sovereign Harbour in Eastbourne. The Boardwalk apartment buildings have a floor above 18m, making them subject to post-Grenfell legislation which came into effect in 2018, requiring cladding material which has a Class A fire safety rating under the Euroclass system.

The original façade at the Boardwalk does not meet the necessary Euroclass rating, necessitating its removal and replacement with a new A-rated rainscreen cladding system. The project will cost around £6.2 million, largely funded by the government’s Building Safety Fund for buildings over 18m.

Principal Contractor, N&J Building Services, has been chosen to oversee the installation of the Class A-rated cladding to make the Boardwalk apartments fully compliant with the

latest Building Regulations. The company is also fitting a Class A breather membrane in the form of Safe One, ensuring the entire external wall system achieves a maximum fire safety rating which goes above and beyond the mandatory requirements.

Safe One has been installed behind the façade to protect the insulation from weather and allow the building to breathe. A fully UV stable breather membrane suitable for open façades, the system is unrivalled for performance, providing a combination of W1 water tightness and Euroclass rating A2-s1,d0 which is currently unique in the UK market. ITP are exclusive suppliers of Safe One in the UK. www.itpltd.com

Photography courtesy Nick Rowland

Landmark Lewisham Project Using A1 Magply For Fireproof Pattress Inserts

A significant new high-rise residential project in the London Borough of Lewisham is being built to provide high quality social housing, with the design of the structure prioritising the use of non-combustible materials: including the choice of A1 rated Magply boards for pattresses within the external walls.

The development at Creekside in Deptford is being built to create a total of 56 one, two and three bedroom apartments, including three specially equipped units on the lower levels of one block for those with mobility issues. Within all of the high specification homes, pattress blocks cut from 18mm sheets of Magply boards are being fitted to the reinforced concrete structure’s infill of heavy gauge steel studs.

The pattresses are being positioned to support kitchen cupboards and bathroom units as well as radiators throughout the eight and 10 storey buildings. Independently certified to offer a range of performance benefits. Magply MOS boards present a fire-safe and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional plywood or OSB products which normally only offer a Euroclass D or E rating. Importantly the pull-out strength for 18mm Magply is in the range 3.45-4.00 Kn/m2. www.magply.co.uk

Office Refurb Specialist Upgrading Fire Performance Using TBA FireflyTM Range

A high specification office building close to Manchester Airport has been subject to a series of planned refurbishment contracts, with the phased work including the upgrade of each floor or unit’s fire performance using smoke and flame barriers from the range of TBA FIREFLYTM. Owned by Orbit Developments – part of the Emerson Group - Park Square is a modern commercial office building offering up to 65,000 sq ft of space over five floors.

As leases of various occupants expire, the Group’s fit-out contractor, Kirkham, strips out and refurbishes the vacated spaces, including installing TBA’s Phoenix barriers above the suspended ceiling grids before fitting new panels and improved lighting.

TBA FIREFLYTM Phoenix is a lightweight smoke and flame barrier developed to enable compartmentation within buildings to provide up to 120 minutes integrity under BS476 Parts 20 & 22. Certified by IFCC the flexible and straightforward to install material I is suitable for both newbuild and retrofit situations.

Manufactured from woven and non-woven glass, the FireflyTM range is designed to optimise resistance to flame and smoke as well as offer heat protection in a wide range of scenarios. www.tbafirefly.com

Hauraton Drainage Systems At Bonus Arena - Hull Venue

Built on brown-field land located on the edge of the main shopping district in Hull and adjacent to Princes Quay, the Bonus Arena – Hull Venue and its associated multi storey car park were opened in August 2018. The £36 million development progresses the legacy of the social and economic impact generated by Hull’s 2017 UK City of Culture status.

The Arena, designed by AFL Architects, is a state-of-the-art music and events complex with a flexible capacity of up to 3,500 people. The facility can provide a venue for concerts or corporate conferences in an 800 seat auditorium. A 2000m² adaptable space can be utilised for sporting events or exhibitions and trade shows. Surrounding the Bonus Arena is a public realm laid with grey stone paving and landscaped by reform Landscape Architecture Limited with trees, lawns, flowerbeds and permanent stone seating.

An effective surface water drainage system was essential to ensure all weather access to the venue. 140 metres of Hauraton RECYFIX® PRO 100 channels with FIBRETEC® heel-safe gratings were chosen for the job which blended well with the stone paving and would resist damage from applied grit rock salt in freezing weather. The

material, PA-GF used to make the FIBRETEC® grating, was specially developed by Hauraton; the tough, UV resistant, fibre reinforced moulding offers high stability and huge strength for its weight. Complying with loading category Class C250 (BSEN 1433) the grating can easily take the weight of commercial delivery vehicles.

The design is a real innovation as its noncorrosive material provides a visually appealing surface finish that retains its colour. The slots are super smooth, elliptical openings with the moulded bars having slightly raised triangular bosses along their outside edges.

As well as providing an elegant appearance, the feature ensures surface water is directed into the slots. The RECYFIX® channel component is made from 100% recycled PP. The PRO 100 model is factory fitted with the FIBRETEC® grating and only weighs 4.6kg, so the unit was easy to handle and quickly installed on site. www.drainage-projects.co.uk

Sto Creates Protective Shell For Olympia London’s New Energy Centre

A new energy centre in the heart of west London has been given a dramatic and eye-catching appearance thanks to the use of a portfolio of façade products provided by Sto. The company’s StoVentec R rainscreen system, with StoVentec A render carrier boards and bespoke 3-dimensional StoDeco profiles have been used to focus attention on the new Olympia London’s Energy Centre, which forms part of a major urban regeneration project in the capital.

Designed by SPPARC, the Olympia London’s Energy Centre building sits on a central London site. “It’s also an industrial building, and the architectural design needed to reflect both this, and the location, yet still deliver a striking appearance which made a strong statement,” comments Sto account manager, Jo Ebel.

The StoVentec stainless steel and aluminium subconstruction was installed onto the substrate of the new multi-storey building by specialist contractor, Craft Interior Ltd, before some 1400 2 m of StoVentec A render carrier boards were fixed to this sub-construction. StoVentec render carrier boards are ideally suited to rainscreen applications and consisting of 96% recycled glass, provide an environmentally-friendly solution.

Stolit K1.5 acrylic render was then applied to the boards to provide a rugged and resilient exterior finish. To complete the façade design, custom-made StoDeco profiles were fixed to the StoVentec system to create a unique, 3-dimensional shell-motif pattern for the elevation of the new energy centre.

Some sections of the building incorporate ventilation louvres, and the shell-shaped profiles had to extend over these areas to maintain the façade design. Said Jo Ebel, “We couldn’t obstruct the air flow through the louvres by installing the StoVentec boards over them, so we worked closely with the louvre manufacturer to design a series of aluminium plates which replicate the shell shapes.”

Available in both standard and individual designs, StoDeco profiles are manufactured from Verolith – a unique, lightweight and easily workable, natural material which is then machined to create custom shapes or decorative panels.

They allow the architect to exercise their creativity by adding individual detailing to a façade. Because they are lightweight, this makes them easy to handle on-site, and they have excellent resistance to damage and the effects of weathering.

A final surface coat of StoColor Maxicryl façade paint was applied to the render finish and StoDeco profiles in a dark StoColor 37100. This acrylate paint combines a high covering power and reliable colour-fastness, ensuring that the building will retain its attractive appearance well into the future. www.sto.co.uk

The Sky Is The Limit For The Riverside Museum, Glasgow, With The Help Of Bilco UK

Housing the Glasgow Museum of Transport, one of the UK’s foremost transport and technology collections, the Riverside Museum reflects Glasgow’s historic role as a centre of shipbuilding, train manufacturing and engineering. Previously located in a former tram depot on the Glasgow South Side, the Transport Museum’s exhibits have moved to The Riverside Museum, designed by renowned architect, Zaha Hadid.

The museum’s iconic and beautiful design dominates its riverside location, whilst paying homage to the heritage of its surroundings. Crucial to the museum’s flowing design is its roof, which curves and undulates and continues around the east and west sides of the building to constitute the majority of the external structure. Silver-grey zinc panels complete the effect, placing the building firmly in the context of the River Clyde.

As part of the roof construction, Bilco UK was commissioned to manufacture and supply a E-50TB Roof Access Hatch, in addition to two ESW-50REM Smoke Vents, to meet strict requirements for convenient access and building safety regulations. Both the roof

access hatch and smoke vents were custom-designed to unique specifications by Bilco UK’s in house team and clad in zinc to create a seamless, aesthetic finish with the museum’s distinctive roof. Expertly engineered to meet the requirements of Manual Handling Regulations, the E-50TB Roof Access Hatch allows for regular and convenient maintenance by facilitating easy one-handed operation.

The Access Hatch will enable engineers with small tools to safely access the roof to conduct essential maintenance, whilst its overlapping cover design, fully welded corners and insulated cover ensure both weather tightness and energy efficiency to deliver the highest standards of longevity for the museum.

Specified to ensure strict adherence with relevant fire safety regulations, the two ESW-50REM Smoke Vents open to 140 degrees in the event of a fire within 60 seconds, guaranteeing the highest standards in fire safety and allowing for the venting of smoke, heat and noxious gases in the event of a fire. Open to Glasgow to the North and the Clyde to the South, the museum’s interior is complex, inviting visitors to snake their way around the various exhibits. www.bilcouk.co.uk

Cut-To-Falls Multiboard Help Drain Top Floor Balcony

An experienced builder and roofing contractor has made use of some 300 standard and tapered Marmox Multiboards to complete a complex refurbishment of a large, top floor balcony on an apartment building in North London. Lightwood Construction carries out work for mainly residential clients right across the capital and has used Marmox Multiboards on many occasions in the past for both interior and exterior applications.

In this instance, long term exposure to the weather and ponding had caused the original waterproofing system to deteriorate, and leaks to occur. Having stripped off all of the rotten felt and boarding, Lightwood Construction’s operatives installed 90 sheets of 20mm thick standard Multiboards, along with 200 of the cut-to-falls variant enabling subtle gradients to be created in draining the balcony to multiple outlets.

Equally suitable for wet room applications, Marmox’s Sloping Boards are made from the same waterproofing products as Multiboard - thermally insulating XPS sandwiched between two layers of Marmox’s patented polymerconcrete. The boards have undergone rigorous tests to ensure they are suitable for external use so can be used on the most exposed balconies, as well as inside a wet room. The board is produced in just one size, 1200 x 1200mm, with the edge thickness tapering from 33mm down to 10mm at the opposite side. They can be combined with layers of 20mm thick Marmox Multiboard to extend the slope indefinitely. www.marmox.co.uk

Wraptite® Helps Dublin Hospital Promote Healthy Buildings

The Wraptite® external air barrier system from the A. Proctor Group is achieving an efficient airtightness solution at two new-build extensions to the Connolly Hospital in Dublin. The Wraptite system is the only self-adhering vapour permeable air barrier certified by the BBA. It combines the critical properties of vapour permeability and airtightness in one selfadhering membrane.

The high vapour permeability of the Wraptite air barrier allows the substrate beneath to dry quickly and moisture vapour to escape and reduces the likelihood of mould, mildew, condensation, timber distortion and metal corrosion. The Wraptite System was installed as an external air barrier and alternative to a traditional standard breather membrane. The use of conventional membranes would have required mechanical fixing and added to the installation time.

As an alternative, the Wraptite self-adhesive membrane was applied externally, quickly and easily to the external steel frame in continuous pieces. Positioning an air barrier on the outside of the structural frame simplifies the process of maintaining the envelope’s integrity, with fewer building services and structural penetrations to be sealed. www.proctorgroup.com

Powering Up More Sustainable, Healthier Outdoor Public Spaces

Many of the UK’s town and city centres are being redefined to ensure they fit more closely with today’s urban lifestyles and the expectations of tourists. The changing retail landscape, driven by the growth of online shopping, more people working from home and an increasing number of people choosing to live in city centres, means that previous models for the design of streetscapes, public parks, plazas and other pedestrianised spaces are needing to undergo significant change. But it is not just reaction to social change that is at the heart of redesigns – sustainability and a growing movement to capitalise on the health benefits of being outdoors, in whatever form that takes, are also part of this fresh thinking to redesign our public spaces.

There is extensive evidence to show that providing safe, secure and attractive outdoor spaces is important to help people be more active and maintain and extend social interaction to benefit their mental health. Flood prevention and ensuring that water is managed efficiently in urban areas is becoming increasingly important due to climate change. Hence, SuDS (sustainable urban drainage systems) are being integrated and there is an increased use of planters in spaces that were previously dominated by tarmac, pavers and concrete, encouraging biodiversity in the process.

But there is also another important consideration in making these new outdoor public spaces as popular and versatile as possible to maximise their potential – access to on-demand power sockets.

Events can play a big role in increasing the use of outdoor spaces and attracting local people as well as tourists. Food and drink fairs, children’s fun days, market stalls, music gigs and light shows – events such as these can be a major draw and help strengthen local communities and they are easier to stage (even at relatively short notice) when easy access to power sockets is provided.

This is why a power infrastructure is a must for any redevelopment scheme or new development, and Pop Up Power Supplies® can help through a range of pop-up, in-ground and bollard power units. By incorporating a power access where there is an opportunity for events at all times of the year, there is no need to hire generators, which can be expensive and may not fit with the local sustainability agenda. The pop up (retractable) and in-ground power distribution units are permanently submerged in the ground, discreetly installed with a lid that matches surrounding surfaces so they are barely noticeable when not it use.

When a power connection is needed, such as to provide electricity to a street food kiosk, the lid can be unlocked by an authorised user to allow power leads to connected. The pop up unit is raised up using a turning handle, whereas the in-ground unit stays below the surface, accessed via a flip lid. As soon as vendors finish serving, or when events are over, the power leads can be simply disconnected and the power unit can be securely locked again to prevent unauthorised access and vandalism.

The third option from Pop Up Power Supplies® is the power bollard. This elegantly designed bollard will integrate with other street furniture as part of an attractive streetscape, whilst providing the benefit of access to electricity when required through its sockets behind a locked cover. www.popuppower.co.uk

Desirable New Build Reflects Quality With The Choice Of Rainwater System

When it came to self-building a dream home, a couple from Yorkshire wanted the finish to the exterior of their home to convey both modern style and quality with a nod to traditional building materials.

The plot of land was bought with an original property standing on it which was demolished to make way for the tasteful 4-bedroom family residence. Their new home was designed to be in keeping with the more mature properties in the surrounding area but also to include elements that offered a greener more modern way of living with

consideration given to energy efficient, durable and ecologically sound building materials. When looking at a rainwater system they wanted all these elements to be reflected together in the choice of gutters and downpipes.

After receiving samples from Yeoman Rainguard they choose the XL Aluminium range which, being manufactured from 3 mm thick extruded aluminium, gave the confidence of a robust and longlasting system.

Style is also exuded from the XL aluminium range with the 125 x 100 mm MOG XL gutters being installed along side the 75 x 75 mm square downpipes. Finished in an attractive black powder coating which not offers a stunning heritage look but gives the gutters and downpipes protection against the elements leading to 30 years plus, maintenance free, lifecycle.

Yeoman Rainguard manufacturing facilities helped to offer additional benefits to the build by being able to specially design external angles and stop end units in one piece. The units reduce the amount of jointing required therefore limiting the possibility of points of leakage in the gutter run.

A bespoke aluminium Fascia/Soffit was also designed for the new build again adding to the immaculate finish and maintenance free advantages of the property’s exterior. For more information on Yeoman Rainguards rainwater systems for new build or renovation projects get in touch on 0113 279 5854 or go to www.rainguard.co.uk

Nordic Royal In Nova Scotia

Nordic Royal golden copper alloy detailing accentuates the art-deco inspired, subtle opulence of a new, award-winning development in Halifax, Nova Scotia, while also referencing its developer’s history in the capital. Located on a pivotal, corner location, the George Residence on Pepperell links a vibrant downtown neighbourhood to the abundant green space of Halifax Common. Designed by Dexel Architecture in collaboration with Fathom Studios and built by Dexel Developments, for developer Lawen Group, the George Residence combines commercial and residential uses including 164 suites and 7 townhouses. Strategic massing of the building creates transition from a large-scale building context to principally singlefamily residential neighbourhoods to the south and west.

The highest density is located to the north-eastern corner of the site, allowing southern exposure to an internal courtyard. The corner has a double-height commercial space to create a neighbourhood anchor, with a distinct residential tower above. The building then steps down to townhouses along the two bordering residential streets to integrate with the neighbourhood streetscape. High-quality Materials The sleek, contemporary design utilises a restrained palette of high-quality materials in neutral colours – accentuated by elegant, crisply detailed and executed Nordic Royal golden copper alloy highlights. External copper alloy details include impressive portals announcing individual entrances, full height margins inset within the dark brickwork, oversailing soffits to the cantilevered corner tower and reveals to openings around the roof terrace. Thematically, Nordic Royal detailing continues internally including elevator doors and surrounds, panels accentuating glazed lobby doors and even the smallest details – such as wall corner guards and curved skirtings to columns.

gives the building a real sense of opulence and quality, as well as contributing to its art-deco feel. But it also acts as a reminder of a special part of the Lawen Group’s family history, embodied in the George Residence – named after the company’s founder George Lawen.

The company’s current president and CEO said: “Our Team chose to feature the golden copper alloy at The George in appreciation of its durability and distinguished and dazzling appearance – an ode to our founder.”

Nordic Royal is an innovative alloy of copper with aluminium and zinc, giving a rich golden through-colour that is very stable. The surface retains its golden colour and simply loses some of its sheen as the oxide layer thickens with exposure to the atmosphere, resulting in a protective matt finish. (cont..)

Distinguished Copper Alloy - Nordic Royal golden copper alloy

(cont...) Extensive Range - The Nordic Copper range of architectural copper and alloy products is available from Aurubis, part of the world’s leading integrated copper group and largest copper recycler.

It includes Nordic Standard ‘mill finish’ and Nordic Brown pre-oxidised copper offering lighter (Nordic Brown Light) or darker shades of brown determined by the thickness of the oxide layer. The extensive Nordic Blue, Nordic Green and Nordic Turquoise ranges have been developed with properties and colours based on the same brochantite mineralogy found in natural patinas all over the world.

As well as the solid patina colours, ‘Living’ surfaces are available for each with other intensities of patina flecks revealing some of the dark oxidised background material. In addition to Nordic Royal, copper alloys include Nordic Bronze and Nordic Brass, which can also be supplied preweathered

Safety and Sustainability - Copper and its alloys enjoy unique characteristics particularly in terms of safety, sustainability and long-term performance. With an ‘A1 (non-combustible material)’ fire classification to EN 13501-1, copper is inherently fire-safe and suitable for cladding tall buildings, using appropriate constructions.

It is also, therefore, rated ‘Class 0’ surface spread of flame, making it suitable for internal wall and ceiling surfaces. Particularly important today, copper is non-toxic and its inherent antimicrobial qualities make it ideal for touch surfaces.

A growing series of on-line ‘copper stories’ exemplify the best in contemporary architecture and showcase the diversity of surfaces, forms and applications available with Nordic Copper today. Visit: www.nordiccopper.com or email: NordicCopper@aurubis.com Photos: AMAC Photography

New Development Demonstrates Sto’s Compatibility With SIPS Construction Method

A new Scottish residential development with a strong emphasis on offsite construction and energyefficiency has highlighted the suitability of Sto’s external render systems for use with modern structural insulated panels (SIPS). The company’s StoRend Flex external render system, which utilizes the StoVentec carrier board, has been installed onto SIPS to create the new detached and semi-detached properties built at Robertland Gardens in Stewartland, North Ayrshire.

The Sto products were specified by project developer SIPS Industries. “We have used Sto solutions many, many times and we know that for SIPS panels, Sto can provide a thoroughly tried and tested system,”

comments spokesman Pat Hynds. The SIPS panels are constructed from two layers of oriented strand board which enclose a layer of insulation. The StoVentec carrier boards provide the perfect finishing surface for the panels, not least because, being made from 96% recycled expanded glass granulate, they align closely to the eco-friendly nature of the Robertland Gardens development.

They are also reinforced with StoArmat Classic Plus and Sto glassfibre mesh to provide outstanding impact resistance, and they complement the inherently strong and stable nature of the SIPS panels as they can often be installed without the need for movement joints.

This allowed them to provide the stippled exterior surfaces which greatly enhance the striking appearance of the new Robertland Gardens properties. StoSilco resin render was applied as the finishing coat to create a lightly stippled, attractive, through-coloured and long-lasting finish which is both vapour-permeable and extremely weather-resistant. It is extremely durable and exceptionally flexible, enabling it to avoid the cracking which can occur with traditional cementitious renders. Being through-coloured it will not fade, which reduces future maintenance and re-painting requirements.

This white stippled render used on the Robertland Gardens properties contrasts with the dark grey StoFlexyl used to encapsulate the insulation below the damp-proof course. This protective coating provides reliable protection against moisture or water ingress in the splash zone and in the soil, and can be used on prepared concrete, masonry and cement sheathing surfaces. A v-profile groove separates the dark grey and white colours and adds a striking visual element to the appearance of the new homes. The Sto materials were installed by Grattan and Hynds of Fife. www.sto.co.uk

Yorkshire Housebuilder

Specifies Stelrad Radiators For All Its Developments

Radiators are the key sharer of heat around homes in the UK and many housebuilders are specifying designer radiators because they want their customers to benefit from a premium product as part of the new home’s specification. One of these is Erris Homes, based in Leeds. Erris Homes is a provider of modern and luxurious new family homes across Yorkshire.

The company has chosen the Compact with Style design radiators from Stelrad –another Yorkshire-based company – with more than two and a half million radiators a year manufactured at its manufacturing plant in Mexborough, near Rotherham in South Yorkshire. Purchasing radiators from a locally based manufacturer is definitely a plus for Erris Homes as it means it is not only supporting its local supply chain but also minimising its environmental impact due to the reduced distance of transport for the radiators from the National Distribution Centre alongside the Stelrad factory to the sites around Yorkshire.

Chris Harvey is Head of Marketing at Stelrad: “It means a lot to us to see housebuilders making a positive decision to select premium panel designer radiators for their homes and Erris Homes is one of the housebuilders in the UK that has decided to select a model from our Stelrad range.” The Compact with Style offers a clean, crisp, flat fronted radiator with a horizontal lined fascia. The subtle architectural look and feel of the Compact with Style is combined with value, range and availability to provide a sophisticated, designer styling for any room, commercial or domestic, at affordable prices. It’s available in 126 different models – horizontal, vertical, lo-line and coloured versions. www.stelrad.com

Photography courtesy Nick Rowland

Yeoman Rainguard

Crowning Glory On High End Development

Property developers Golden Eye Group, augmented their latest residential development with a high-end exterior finish incorporating a rainwater system from Yeoman Rainguard. With a mantra of “a quality finish that will stand the test of time” Golden Eye ensured that quality was reflected not only internally but for all parts of the external building envelope too.

As part of the function and design criteria of the house façade, Yeoman Rainguard were able to provide a sophisticated, quality rainwater system to fulfil technical and aesthetic requirements. To dovetail into the contemporary look, Yeoman Rainguard SL Aluminium gutters and downpipes were chosen. The 75 x 75 mm flush-fit SL Aluminium downpipes provided a modern clean line coupled with 125 x 100 mm MOG gutter. Aluminium Fascia and Soffits from Yeoman Rainguard’s new Squareline range were fitted to complement the sleek lines.

All were finished in a smooth RAL 7022 Grey colour to perfectly match the shade of the windows and doors. The aluminium products give a hardwearing, maintenance free lifecycle of 30 years or more, making this recyclable material both an ecologically and economically sound choice. The rainwater system was installed by Yeoman Rainguard’s experienced installer, ensuring the perfect finish. www.rainguard.co.uk

Hauraton Channels Drain Blue Badge Scheme Parking Bays At RHS Wisley

The first phase of The Welcome Building and surrounding landscape at Royal Horticultural Society gardens, Wisley, Surrey has transformed the experience for visitors to the gardens with buildings including a spacious arrivals hall, café, shop, plant centre and a 100 seat restaurant. There are now three large car/ coach parks including Blue Badge scheme easy access bays for visitors in park two.

One hundred metres of Hauraton RECYFIX® PRO 100 channel system, fitted with FIBRETEC® C250, 9mm HEELSAFE slot gratings, was used by groundwork subcontractor GPB Construction Ltd to drain the asphalted Blue Badge parking bays for visitors. The channels were installed between the bays and the path leading to the entrance of the new arrivals hall.

The material, PA-GF used to make the FIBRETEC® grating, was especially developed by Hauraton; the tough, UV resistant, fibre reinforced moulding offers high stability and huge strength for its weight. Complying with loading category Class C250 (BSEN 1433) the grating can easily take the weight of cars and commercial delivery vehicles.

The design is a real innovation as its non-corrosive material provides a visually appealing surface finish that retains its black colour.

The FIBRETEC® C250 HEELSAFE slot grating was specifically designed by Hauraton R&D engineers to enhance the flow of water into the channel. The slots are super smooth, elliptical openings with the moulded bars having slightly raised triangular bosses along their outside edges.

As well as providing an elegant appearance, the feature ensures surface water is directed into the slots. This configuration also helps eliminate any cross-flow over the grating.

The RECYFIX® PRO 100 channel component is made from 100% recycled polypropylene (PP). The six sizes offered are 160mm wide and range in height from 75mm to 250mm with the FIBRETEC® grating factory fitted on all models. As the largest unit is only 5.8kg, the channelling is easily handled and quickly installed on site. www.drainage-projects.co.uk

Revised Part L And Improved Thermal Performance With Schöck

With changes to  Part L of the Building Regulations having come into force on 15th June, 2022, CO2 emissions are now reduced by 31% for dwellings and 27% for other buildings. So improving the thermal performance of building envelopes is even more critical.

Designers need to be aware of how significantly insulation values can be compromised by thermal bridges, which occur in a localised area of the building envelope – typically where a material with high thermal conductivity penetrates the insulation layer.

Critical examples are cantilevered balconies, which result in higher heat transfer through the building assembly and colder surface temperatures on the warm side.

The main consequences being non-compliance with regulations, condensation leading to mould growth and higher energy consumption for heating. The 2021 edition of Part L (which replaces L1A 2013) sets out the minimum thermal requirements for avoiding such issues.

Important new requirements Thermal bridging must now be included in fabric heat loss calculations and the Standard Assessment Procedure calculation (updated to SAP 10.2) includes the term HTB (heat loss due to thermal bridging). A further change is that for new dwellings, an on-site audit must confirm that the details shown in the original design have been constructed, before they are concealed by subsequent work.

Photographic verification must show that the products used are those in the original design. If there are substitutions, the revised specification should be reflected in the SAP calculation and included in the Building Regulations England Part L compliance report (BREL report). The revised Part L also includes general tightening of U-values, requiring greater insulation requirements and better performing thermal break details.

Additionally, it encourages HTB assessment to be carried out through thermal calculation for a more realistic evaluation of existing thermal junctions. The default y-value has been increased to 0.20 W/ (m2.K) to discourage generic estimations. Thermal performance and structural integrity Designers do need to be fully aware of just how significantly thermal bridges compromise insulation and the most effective way to minimise thermal bridging at cantilever balcony detailing is to incorporate a Schöck structural thermal break.

This is a highly efficient balcony connector that minimises the flow of thermal energy between the interior and exterior of a building, providing both structural integrity and thermal isolation of the balcony. The Schöck range of thermal break solutions is for applications as diverse as concrete-toconcrete; concrete-to-steel; steel-to-steel; renovation projects – and even Passivhaus.

Condensation and mould growth With thermal bridging cold surfaces can form condensation, resulting in structural damage – and of even bigger concern – mould growth. To identify areas where there is a risk of condensation and

therefore mould growth, a ‘surface temperature factor’ (fRsi) should be used. It allows surveys under any thermal conditions and compares the temperature drop across the building fabric with the total temperature drop between the inside and outside air.

The recommended (fRsi) value for offices and retail premises is equal to or greater than 0.5; and to ensure higher standards for occupants in residential buildings, equal to or greater than 0.75. www.schoeck.com

Cupa Pizarras’ Slate Chosen For Luxury Coastal Properties

CUPA PIZARRAS’ CUPA 18 natural slate has been used to achieve a high-quality finish on three luxury, modern, new build properties in one of the most desirable areas of Whitstable in Kent.

The new properties, built by local property designer and developer specialist Kapra Developments, are located in Island Wall, Whitstable, close to both the town centre and the scenic Kent coastline. The three storey, five bedroom luxury properties are each in excess of 360 square metres and benefit from views over the nearby golf course.

The unique design of the houses features extensive use of dark grey aluminium glazing systems including rooftop lanterns and large sloping roof windows.

The placement of the expansive glazing as well as the layout and orientation of the buildings was devised to maximize the natural light and make the most of the surrounding landscape. In addition to the CUPA 18 natural slate, the design also includes high quality natural timber cladding, sedum green roofing and natural stone blockwork .

Kim Brown, Director at Kapra Developments explained: “For the properties on Island Wall, the quality of the materials was very important and the coastal location meant that a durable product was essential. We had used CUPA PIZARRAS’ products on previous projects and so we were confident that the CUPA 18 slate would provide the look, quality and longevity we wanted.”

CUPA 18 is a lighter grey slate with a smooth matt surface and has a superior, homogenous finish with only minor variations allowed in the thickness and flatness of the slate. The slate roofs were installed by Bates (Kent), a family owned contractor based near Canterbury, who has worked with Kapra Developments on a number of previous projects.

David Clarke, Company Secretary at Bates said: “The Island Wall properties presented a few complexities and challenges due to the steep pitch of the roof and the need to integrate the slate with the other elements such as the large format glazing."

“We’ve used CUPA products on a number of contracts and found the slates very easy to work with. The strength and quality of the slates means that we are able to reduce the amount of wastage compared with other products.”

Kim Brown concluded: “To achieve the intended result for these properties has required hard work from everyone involved. We are once again delighted with CUPA PIZARRAS’ products and are pleased with how that element of the build has progressed.”

CUPA PIZARRAS’ natural slate is sustainably extracted from quarries in northern Spain. It has an exceptional life span of 100 years and requires minimal maintenance throughout its lifetime. www.cupapizarras.com/uk