FC&A February 2023

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FUTURE CONSTRUCTOR & ARCHITECT MAGAZINE

EDITOR IAL

Rebecca Kemp rebecca@redhutmedia.com

Hannah Woodger hannah@redhutmedia.com

PRINT & DIGITAL ADVERTISING

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PRINT DESIGN MANAGER

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DIGITAL DESIGN MANAGER

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PUBLISHER

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WELCOME TO

Typically, this time of year places vast amounts of pressure on the National Grid. With building users cranking up the thermostats to keep their workplaces warm during the day and individuals returning to their homes to carry out energy-intensive tasks in the evening – such as cooking, washing, heating, hoovering etc. – it comes as no surprise that cash incentives, like the Peak Save scheme, have taken off.

This rise in energy bills is prompting more building owners to look at alternative, lower-cost means of heating premises. In the residential sector, many are choosing heat pumps as a way to heat and cool their homes because they are more efficient. Of course, using less energy and producing fewer emissions leads to lower energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint, which is appealing to all.

In this month's issue, Jason Allen, Commercial Product Manager at Hamworthy Heating, explores the role heat pumps play in today's changing climate. Turn to page 28 to read the full article.

As well as an increase in heating buildings and the associated energy price hikes, transmissible illnesses are also circulating. With that comes a heightened sense of awareness for well-ventilated spaces.

Following the outbreak of COVID-19, the importance of proper ventilation in buildings has been brought to the forefront of people's minds. Many experts have pointed to poor ventilation as a potential contributor to the spread of the virus, as it can allow airborne particles to linger in indoor spaces. As a result, people are becoming increasingly aware of the need for proper ventilation in order to keep themselves and others safe. This includes ensuring that buildings have enough fresh air circulating, using various forms of ventilation, and keeping windows open when possible.

In this month's issue, David Cook, Technical Product Manager at Vent-Axia, looks at the role ventilation has to play in the fight against infection control. Turn to page 30 to read more.

Rebecca

REBECCA KEMP

Editor, Future Constructor & Architect

ON THE COVER:

A team comprising Zaha Hadid Architects, Sweco and Tredje Natur has won the competition to build the new Aarhus Football Stadium in Denmark.

SEE PAGE 14.

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CONTENTS

INDUSTRY UPDATES :

FC&A rounds up this month’s industry news, including awarded contracts, completed projects and much more.

VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY:

Modern British architecture is all about touch, feel and texture, says James Butler of Pura Facades in his article on emerging trends and issues within UK building design.

LEGAL & BUSINESS:

FEATURES

24 26 28 32 34 36

LOW-CARBON STRATEGIES:

Jonathan Spencer, Founder and Director of JPS Project Management Services, provides some vital considerations for all those looking to sustainably create or renovate an existing building.

LIGHTING & ELECTRICALS:

Tamlite’s Debbie-Sue Farrell explains why specifiers and architects must harness the benefits of the most up-to-date LED lighting solutions to achieve a low-carbon infrastructure.

HVAC:

Jason Allen, Commercial Product Manager at Hamworthy Heating, explores the role of the heat pump in today’s changing climate.

30

INFECTION CONTROL:

Three years on from COVID, David Cook, Technical Product Manager at Vent-Axia, explains what ventilation considerations are needed for effective infection control going forward.

BUILD FOCUS: Refurb & Retrofit:

Luke Jones, ARBOFLEX PU Product Manager at Carlisle Construction Materials, talks us through the details of a roof refurbishment, with complex detailing requirements, for one of London’s popular museums.

TECHNICAL INSIGHT: Waterproofing:

Carl Bailey, Regional Technical Manager for Elevate, offers best practice advice on specifying and installing EPDM roofing membranes.

KBB:

Here, GROHE discusses the changing design requirements of consumers within bathroom spaces and the key trends influencing specifications and design throughout 2023.

PORTFOLIOS

ZAHA HADID ARCHITECTS, AARHUS FOOTBALL STADIUM:

A team comprising Zaha Hadid Architects, Sweco and Tredje Natur has won the competition to build the new Aarhus Football Stadium in Denmark.

HIGH HALDEN & BETHERSDEN SITES, HOLLAWAY STUDIO:

Here, Elizabeth Beighton, Director of Boyer (part of Leaders Romans Group), runs through the proposed changes to the NPPF. 14 18

Hollaway Studio has designed a sustainable new workshop and museum for world-renowned rocking-horse maker, Stevenson Brothers, replacing a former petrol filling station on a brownfield site in the village of High Halden, Kent.

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IN BRIEF: SCOTLAND MANDATES PASSIVHAUS EQUIVALENT LEGISLATION

The Scottish Government has announced plans for all new-build housing to meet a Scottish equivalent to the Passivhaus standard. Jon Bootland, CEO of the Passivhaus Trust, comments: “It is fantastic to hear the Scottish Government has committed to bringing forward a bill requiring higher energyefficiency standards in domestic buildings, which also recognises the need to assure occupants that the design and construction of these buildings will deliver the actual performance sought in practice. Statements including ‘a Scottish equivalent to the Passivhaus standard’ and ‘explicit support for Passivhaus and equivalent standards’ fill us with hope."

NORTH EAST SKILLS AND EMPLOYMENT PROGRAMME WINS GLOBAL PRAISE

An innovative skills programme designed and developed by Ryder and Gateshead College has received international recognition. PlanBEE (Built Environment Education), which was launched in 2016, won the further and higher education category at the 2022 Inspire Future Generation Awards. The first programme of its kind, PlanBEE is an industrydriven higher apprenticeship scheme designed to help attract and retain talent in the built environment and construction sector and solve the skills shortage the industry is facing. Supported by a growing consortium of over 40 businesses across the UK, the pioneering programme combines study with working for some of the construction industry’s leading companies.

INDUSTRY UPDATES

FC&A ROUNDS UP THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS AND UPDATES.

SHIGERU BAN ARCHITECTS BEGINS WORK ON BAN, BELGIUM’S FIRST WOODEN RESIDENTIAL TOWER

The project, which is located in Antwerp, will introduce 295 homes, office spaces, a store and a restaurant in a 25-floor tower and adjoining building.

Shigeru Ban, winner of 2014’s The Pritzker Architecture Prize, which honours the work of an architect that consistently and significantly contributes to humanity and the built environment, showcasing a combination of talent, vision and commitment, teamed up with Triple Living to deliver Belgium’s first wooden residential tower. Triple Living is a familyowned company with years of experience in the construction and development of a wide variety of projects.

S higeru Ban comments: “In my work, I try not to be influenced too much by other people’s work or buildings in the immediate area. I try to do my own thing as much as possible and let my own creativity guide me. In that respect, BAN is probably best viewed as an accumulation of designs I came up with in the past. Every

building you design as an architect builds on ideas and learnings from the past. It is the same with this design.”

C ommenting on the key ideas in this design, Shigeru Ban said: “Wood, garden and people. I wanted to create a place where people could unwind. Hence the choice of lots of greenery and the spacious courtyard garden. A green environment promotes relaxing feelings. Nature takes away stress. In Japan, we have a word for that: shinrin-yoku. Unwind by immersing yourself in greenery. At the same time, I also chose a lot of wood accents in the design. This is not only a good choice from an ecological point of view, but it also creates a certain warmth and homeliness, which you expect in a building like this.”

www.shigerubanarchitects.com

SHIGERU BAN ARCHITECTS

Image courtesy of Triple Living

ARCHITECT IN PROFILE

Please tell us a bit about your career background I started my professional career at a small practice in Halifax, just me and the two partners. We were just crawling out of a recession – this was the mid ‘90s – and I felt lucky to find an opening. A small practice is a wonderful way to get exposed to the full gamut of work in this profession, and I stayed with them through my postgraduate studies right up until qualifying. Then I spent a few years living in New Zealand and had to qualify all over again – design may be a universal language, but it’s definitely interpreted in different ways. I’ve been back here for close to 20 years now, but I still miss it.

Had you always wanted to pursue a career in architecture?

Architecture has a reputation for being a white, male, middle-class profession and whilst I’d freely admit to ticking the first two boxes, I’m certainly not from a privileged background. Growing up in the working-class North, architecture as a career didn’t really register with me at first.

Some people seem born with a passion or calling, and I’ve always been somewhat envious of that. To be quite honest, I really had no fixed ideas about what career I wanted to follow but figured architecture would be a great opportunity to use the blend of skills and interests I had – and it really does need a well-rounded set of skills, whether that’s as a practical application or simply to understand the many facets that the job entails.

Who has been your greatest influence and source of inspiration?

In architecture, I’d have to say my university Tutor, Nick Temple. I’d credit him with opening my eyes and really broadening my

horizons. There’s a very dry, technical side to architecture – and it’s important to understand it, to be able to design with some insight into how things are built – but it needs to be balanced by the more metaphysical stuff; the search for meaning.

What has been your most notable project to date?

I’ve worked on some reasonably big projects – timescales, budgets and scale – but my highlight to date has been my ongoing work with the Anoopam Mission at their home near Uxbridge to realise their vision for a Hindu crematorium. It’s a first, addressing a real cultural need, and it’s the sort of project that provides a real opportunity to search for that meaning I mentioned.

How do you approach your projects?

Every job is different. But each has a story that the client – be they a seasoned developer or a first timer – has inside them, and our job starts with trying to tease that story out. Often, it’s conflated by practical and financial aims and needs, and sometimes it takes a while to dig down to find that seed, but even the most seemingly prosaic of schemes has a narrative. I suppose it’s like a biographer getting to grips with their subject – and then finding a way to tell that story. Some stories are more interesting than others, of course!

What do you think is the greatest challenge for designing in sustainability?

Every bit of building work – and that includes renovation – is inherently bad for the environment. On the face of it, certainly. So the challenge is about achieving a balance, and to do that, we need to better understand the metrics. The tools are becoming more sophisticated, with

MARCHINI CURRAN ASSOCIATES

From his early career working in a small practice to living in New Zealand and re-qualifying in architecture, Kevin Smith, Director at Marchini Curran Associates, takes us on his professional advancement journey.

KEVIN SMITH IS A DIRECTOR AT MARCHINI CURRAN ASSOCIATES

Caldecott Square, Rugby. A proposed development of 78 new senior living apartments and a 52-bed care home with a wellness centre housed in a listed building.

richer data, but properly assessing the life of a building in terms not only of its carbon footprint but the wider aims of a circular economy. It’s got a long way to go, and that probably means more accountability.

What is your favourite building and why?

Sankt Petri kyrka in Klippan, Sweden. There are many religious buildings that evoke a sense of displacement, of ‘liminality’, through their audacious scale or opulent decoration, but here the space is more intimate, unadorned, but equally evocative. There is a refinement to its simplicity that betrays the lifetime experience of its architect. Sigurd Lewerentz was in his 80s at the time and still supervising the placement of every brick on site.

What do you think is the greatest challenge for architects today?

Keeping on top of it all. There’s the ever-changing regulatory framework, planning policies, all manner of standards, CPDs – there’s a lot to know and a lot more to be aware of. We’re reliant upon the sources of advice and guidance that are available, but Grenfell has shown that those sources aren’t always reliable.

What do you think is the greatest challenge for architecture students?

Well, hopefully, getting their first job won’t become a problem, but we’ll see how the year pans out. Architectural education is a long haul, and it’s not cheap. New routes into the profession are being created, such as via apprenticeships – and I applaud the initiative, more particularly if they arm graduates with the skills that employers are really looking for. But it remains to be seen whether that dilutes the depth of learning and exposure to ideas that a more immersive education provides.

What advice would you give to newly-qualified architects?

Stop, look and listen. It sounds incredibly patronising, but there’s a hell of a lot still to learn once you’ve qualified. I’ve never stopped learning, but there’s definitely a moment when you sit in a meeting and realise you don’t really know a lot after all –that’s when you start learning again.

What can we expect to see from you over the next year?

Slow, steady growth and a more visible profile. Marchini Curran Associates has operated very successfully under the radar for over 20 years now. Imagine how successful we can be if we market our skills and experience more proactively. Watch this space!

The Anoopam Mission crematorium

North Bailey House, Oxford. An extensive refurbishment providing 20,000ft 2 new office space with ground-floor retail/food use, a new feature reception, roof terrace, basement cycle store and changing rooms.

The Taper Building, Southwark. Completed in 2018, it's a mixed-use development of 95 apartments with concierge, gym, landscaped terrace and over 1375m 2 of commercial space.

GLASS – CLEAR ADVANTAGES

The beauty, practicality and durability of glass have made it indispensable in construction projects for many centuries. More recent advances have multiplied the purposes to which it can be put, making it one of the most versatile materials in common use, as Susan Sinden, Commercial Manager of ESG Group, explains.

ESG GROUP

Glass has always been the only truly practical material to use for windows, as well as architectural additions such as conservatories, earning an iconic place in history and architecture. When toughened glass was first introduced, however, it brought not only a lot of immediate safety advantages but also a host of potential new applications, which more recent technological advances have only served to increase.

In sharp contrast to the large shards formed when breaking an annealed glass panel, toughened glass shatters into small granular fragments, which fall to the ground without causing much harm. This has meant that glass can now safely be used for purposes such as shower screens, sliding bi-fold doors and large expanses of exterior glazing, as well as balustrades and interior partitions.

Toughened glass was rapidly adopted in building design, especially as architects began to favour larger expanses of glass for its aesthetic qualities. However, it was the introduction of toughened laminated glass, a further advance in safety, which allowed us to push the boundaries of design in the building envelope.

In the process of lamination, two layers of glass are sandwiched together using an interlayer, which bonds the layers of glass together. This technique is normally used to combine two sheets of toughened glass, adding strength, safety and a wide range of functionality. Very quickly, architects saw the potential for introducing greater use of natural light and more open spaces in the indoor environment.

Lamination has brought both increased strength and the ability to increase the size of the glass panel. Glass panels of several metres in height and width can now be used in constructing both interior and exterior walls. These panels can also be joined unobtrusively so that large expanses of glass can be made to appear uninterrupted, allowing architects to both imagine and realise increasingly innovative building designs. Introducing more natural light brings additional benefits, including helping to reduce electricity consumption, and glass needs no redecoration, helping to lower long-term maintenance costs.

By laminating two layers of toughened glass, not only is safety enhanced, security can also be introduced. If a toughened laminated glass panel becomes damaged, it may become bowed or misshapen, but it will usually stay in place until it can be replaced.

Added security is a property that we can now purposefully introduce into glazed panels. By laminating thicker, specially-processed security glass panes with advanced interlayers, we can create panels with built-in resistance to intruders, which will deter both vandals and would-be thieves. Laminated security glass can now pass the standards for EN356 manual attack-resistant glass, making it ideal for use in shop fronts, as well as inside retail outlets, in fixtures such as jewellery counters, or the screens used to protect bank employees.

Thanks to advances in glass processing, we can now help to design crime out of public buildings, deterring the use of firearms and ram-raiding by criminals by installing ballistic and blast-resistant glass. Processing techniques now allow us to produce toughened laminated glass, which passes the tests for ISO 16933:2007, which governs the standards for blastresistant glass.

ZAHA HADID ARCHITECTS, SWECO AND TREDJE NATUR TO DESIGN NEW AARHUS STADIUM

A team comprising Zaha Hadid Architects, working with architecture and engineering consultancy Sweco and landscape architect Tredje Natur, has won the competition to build the new Aarhus football stadium in Denmark.

ZAHA HADID ARCHITECTS

Bringing supporters as close as possible to the field of play in a singletiered seating bowl creating an intense match-day experience, the new Aarhus Stadium is embedded within the city’s Marselisborg forest.

T itled the ‘Arena of the Forest’, the design concept is informed by the vertical rhythm of the surrounding trees that reach up to 47m in height. The design envisions the new stadium as an extension of the forest, with its verticality continued in the stadium’s public colonnades and the timber ribs of its facade. These vertical gestures flow from the forest towards the landscaped plaza and into the colonnades of the stadium’s external and internal concourses. Together, with an intricate hierarchy of timber ribs within the facade and roof, the stadium’s large horizontal volume is

subdivided into a human scale, whilst at the same time offering a sense of arrival for the fans congregating in the adjacent public plazas.

T he new stadium’s roof is designed to maximise weather protection and increase comfort levels in the adjacent external plazas as well as the internal concourses, defining a sheltered 360º public circulation route that is independent of the events within the stadium, creating welcoming new public spaces for a wide variety of civic, recreational and cultural uses by the local community and visitors to the park.

T he stadium’s transparent roof and the gaps within the timber ribs of its facade reveal glimpses of the surrounding forest, while its permeable colonnades blur the boundaries between different programmes. The east

and west sides incorporate open colonnades that act not only as intuitive wayfinding to demark the main entrances but also as an interface between public events and ticketed programmes, allowing the two to expand into one another and maximise the potential to host many different types of events 365 days a year.

To be built on the site of the existing stadium, the new project’s design, structure and materials are optimised with regard to environmental impact, functionality and experienced value. In using the right materials for the right function and reducing quantities to the absolute minimum where strength and robustness add the greatest possible value, the new Aarhus Stadium is characterised by three primary materials: concrete incorporating recycled aggregates for the

columns, locally-procured, upcycled and recycled steel for the trusses and timber from local certified sustainable sources for the facade cladding.

T he adjacent ‘Stadionhallerne’ building, completed in 1918 by Architect Axel Høgh-Hansen will be refurbished. Its intense red facades and white ornamentation will be retained to keep its historic soul that everyone at the club holds dear.

T he design and construction of the new building is driven by the recycling and reuse of the existing stadium’s materials and components to the largest extent possible. In addition to the positive effect on the new stadium’s environmental impact, the re-utilisation of the old stadium’s components will contribute to the local anchoring of the project.

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H ome ground to Aarhus Gymnastikforening (AGF) football club whose first team play in the Danish Superliga, the current Aarhus Stadium opened in 1920. While a series of refurbishments were undertaken between 1948 and 2004, the existing stadium no longer meets the standards required to host regular top-flight professional and international football matches as well as large-scale cultural events. Perhaps most notably for AGF supporters, the long distances between spectators and the football pitch within the existing stadium are an obstacle to generating the most exciting atmosphere for AGF players and fans at home games. The new stadium will bring fans very close to the field of play, creating an immersive experience for everyone at the match.

T he competition organisers praised the team’s proposal for its understanding and interpretation of the stadium’s special location within the ancient Marselisborg forest and its adjacency to the historic Stadionhallerne.

G ianluca Racana, Director of Zaha Hadid Architects, said: “It is an honour to have been selected to build such an important project in Aarhus. Our proposal for the new Aarhus Stadium is inspired by its natural forest context and the club’s legacy. Providing a wealth of new public spaces for use 365 days a year, the stadium will be a new landmark for the city that incorporates the highest standards of environmental, economic and social sustainability within every aspect of its design and construction.”

4 2 Danish and international architect teams applied for prequalification for the tender in December 2021, and six teams were chosen for

the first round of the competition, with three equal winners continuing to the second round. The winner of the competition was announced by the City of Aarhus as a developer, as well as the two sponsors behind the majority of the financing, Lind Invest and Salling Fondene, and the local Superliga club AGF Football.

T he winning proposal will now be qualified during the first half of 2023 in collaboration between the City of Aarhus, the winning team and AGF.

Parallel to that process, the contractor who will be responsible for the construction of the new stadium will be found. In the second half of 2023, the construction will be planned in detail before the current stadium begins to be gradually dismantled beginning in 2024. The construction phase will proceed over four stages towards the expected inauguration of a new stadium in 2026.

www.zaha-hadid.com

HOLLAWAY STUDIO DESIGNS SUSTAINABLE WORKSHOP FOR ROCKING-HORSE MAKER ALONGSIDE COMMUNITY-LED AFFORDABLE HOUSING

The award-winning architecture practice, Hollaway Studio, has designed a sustainable new workshop and museum for world-renowned rocking-horse maker, Stevenson Brothers, replacing a former petrol filling station on a

The new bespoke building replaces the existing factory and dilapidated outbuildings, adding housing alongside a farm shop and co-working cafe. This provides an opportunity to combine both sites together under one roof, with Hollaway placing community firmly at the heart of its plans.

M aker of fine rocking horses for the late Queen Elizabeth II, Stevenson Brothers –which was established almost 40 years ago by twin brothers Marc and Tony –commissioned UK architect firm Hollaway to design a contemporary, sustainable workshop to showcase these methods and its heritage.

High Halden site

H ollaway has designed a contemporary timber-clad building that is a gentle nod to the fabric of the rocking horses. An abundance of glass permits visitors to view the making process and fine

craftsmanship for themselves with the opportunity for organised tours.

T his desire to reveal the hidden side of the workshop is a hallmark of Hollaway’s design ethos. It can also be seen in its extensive plans for Brompton Bicycles' European HQ and factory (briefly covered in FC&A’s April 2022 edition), which is due for completion in 2027 in nearby Ashford, as well as Hollaway’s Curious Brewery.

B eside the workshop will be Stevenson Brothers’ ‘rockinghorse hospital’, offering expert restoration and conservation, recognising that these oftenheirloom items are an integral and valued part of the family. Here, any rocking horse can await the necessary repairs so that it can provide prolonged joy for future generations to come. Beyond the hospital will be a shared working space for the public and schools to learn about the craftsmanship involved.

“ When we first started to make rocking horses over 40 years ago, we had three goals,” explain Marc and Tony. “To re-introduce the rocking horse and make them popular again, make the best rocking horses in the world, and inspire people to discover their creativity. By building the new workshop, museum and showroom, we will be allowing members of the public to be part of a larger experience, watching for themselves what we do and being inspired by all they see. It’s been an honour making rocking horses for Queen Elizabeth II for the past 20 years.”

To make this vision possible, to the rear of the new workshop, Hollaway has designed 22 new detached four- and five-bedroom exemplar homes based on a contemporary farmstead design with exposed brick, black timber and slate to match similar buildings in the surrounding area. Ponds,

pathways and cycle links will open up a previously inaccessible public right of way to allow the local community to enjoy the space. The inclusion of the farm shop and coworking cafe will become the beating heart of the area.

Sustainability is key to the design, with a biodiversitynet-gain improvement of 16% thanks to the addition of grass roofs and grasslands. As well as the environmental progress in transforming the land in this way, the site’s transformation will significantly increase employment.

Bethersden site

Bethersden is a picturesque village set amidst the glory of the Kentish countryside, a region of tile-hung cottages, spectacular old mills and pretty oasthouses. A hamlet with properties dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, including five listed buildings, the village was formerly the centre of the Kentish wool trade.

HOLLAWAY STUDIO

brownfield site in the village of High Halden in Kent.

I n addition to the High Halden site, Stevenson Brothers also owns another brownfield site in Bethersden. Here, the finishing touches are given to the rocking horses before they are displayed for the new owners and taken home. As part of the overall scheme, the old Bethersden workshop will be redeveloped into nine affordable apartments comprising seven onebedroom apartments, one two-bedroom apartment and one accessible apartment. Together, these nine apartments will provide 40% affordable homes, which are fully compliant with Government legislation and reflective of local housing needs. The re-development of the site will also create a biodiversity-net-gain improvement of around 30%.

C ommenting on the project, Guy Hollaway, Principal Partner at Hollaway,

says: “This project is about community. The design of the new Stevenson Brothers’ workshop and museum actively encourages members of the public to engage in the creative process of these world-renowned rocking horses. Whilst gaining a rare insight into the craftsmanship of Stevenson rocking horses, members of the public will also be able to visit the farm shop, cafe and courtyard, which will become a rural destination and meeting place.”

T he aspiration is that Stevenson Brothers will continue in a new, purposebuilt workshop completed in 2025, bringing together the local community and providing much-needed new homes. The story of rocking horses will continue for many decades to come, as will this much-loved Ashford-based business

www.hollawaystudio.co.uk

WHY HAS CONSTRUCTION GONE ALL ‘TOUCHY FEELY’?

Modern British architecture is all about touch, feel and texture, says James Butler of Pura Facades.

JAMES BUTLER IS THE COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR AT PURA FACADES

Ba ck in the ‘80s and ‘90s, the leading lights of building design were all about steel and glass. Monolithic structures that reached into the clouds, making bold statements about the power and longevity of their patrons – usually bankers, financiers, insurers or law firms. Think the Gherkin, the Walkie Talkie, 20 Fenchurch Street and, more recently, the Shard.

Fast forward a few decades, and attitudes towards building styles have changed markedly. We no longer see the testosteronefuelled corporate structures listed above being applauded by the likes of RIBA. Instead, the annual Stirling Prize has made a decisive shift toward more tactile materials in the last few years, celebrating projects such as Goldsmith Street in Norwich (2019) and the New Library at Magdalene College (2020) as designs for our times.

I t’s interesting to look back at the recipients of RIBA’s Stirling Prize over the last 25 years. While projects using glass and other hard materials dominated the awards back then (think Duxford’s Museum for American aircraft in 1998 and Peckham Library in 2000), we’ve seen a radical shift in recent times to much more varied, warmer materials. These days, it’s much more about texture.

U sing reclaimed materials – mostly wood – the Pier at Hastings won the award in 2017. Two years later, Goldsmith Street celebrated the use of brick on a human scale, while the most recent winner in 2022 (the new Library at Magdalene College Oxford) harnesses the creativity of natural materials. Here, Níall

McLaughlin Architects combines load-bearing brick, gabled pitched roofs, windows with tracery and brick chimneys to create a building that will stir the soul and stand the test of time. S o, what is going on here? In a word, it’s all about biophilia.

Biophilia explained

There’s something called the biophilia hypothesis, which is the idea that we all have an innate tendency to seek connections with nature and other forms of life. The term biophilia was first coined by German-born American Psychoanalyst Erich Fromm in The Anatomy of Human Destructiveness in 1973. In his book, he described biophilia as “the passionate love of life and of all that is alive”. Since then, this concept has been embraced by architects, who have taken these principles into the world of building design.

I n the 1980s, the work of Harvard Professor Edward O. Wilson built on the foundation of this new way of thinking. Author of Biophilia, Wilson, who was a Biologist and passionate Conservationist, said: “Nature holds the key to our aesthetic, intellectual, cognitive and even spiritual satisfaction.” Mother nature, it seems, has always been a comforting and inspiring force in our lives. Re-connecting people with the world that surrounds us soon became the driving force behind Wilson’s ground-breaking work.

Today, we see these ideas reflected in the healthy building movement, which makes a much stronger connection between building materials and their impact on people’s productivity, creativity and wellbeing. The biophilic movement is now well established

PURA FACADES

Goldsmith Street, Norwich. Developments such as this housing estate use brick and other natural materials to create a strong community feel.

among architects and designers, with magazines devoting whole sections of their websites to celebrating natureinspired buildings.

Natural materials

W hile classic biophilic design tends to focus on the interior design of a building, using wood, plants and flowing patterns to create calming, nurturing spaces, this concept has now started to influence external designs, most notably building facades.

Wooden exteriors are an obvious choice, providing warmth and a highly tactile surface. However, we are now seeing many more buildings employing a mix of timber and facade materials such as terracotta. Look at the New Library at Magdalene College, which fuses timber with brick on both the inside and outside of the building.

A lternatively, consider a new children’s home in the Austrian city of Fussach, which employs wood and Tonality terracotta tiles to create a warm, welcoming, yet clean exterior.

A nother notable example of terracotta being used as a natural, biophilic material is at a kindergarten in Copenhagen, Denmark, which uses lamella and baguettes of terracotta to create an inviting, protective space for young children. This creative approach by local architect COBE shows the stunning effects that can be achieved

using natural materials that will last for decades, requiring minimal maintenance.

T he use of biophilic principles in building design is being seen increasingly in social housing projects in the UK. Peabody Estates approved a highly impact-resistant and A1 fire class GRC cladding panel product manufactured by Rieder for its Amersham Vale development in Lewisham, London.

Completed in 2022, this attractive scheme uses a textured concrete finish in a matt-white colour to add brightness and contrast to the adjacent brickwork. The panels frame the walkways and add a grid structure to the external facade. The U-shaped panels will weather naturally and evenly over time like the brick, giving a traditional stone look and feel.

I am in no doubt that the use of natural materials in modern architecture is a major trend that has been fuelled by the ideas of Edward O. Wilson back in the 1980s. Today’s designers are much more in touch with the emotional connections between people and buildings – and how the use of certain materials can affect mood, health and performance.

C ertainly, from Pura Facades’ perspective, we continue to see demand for products such as terracotta, glassreinforced concrete facades and brick slip all continuing to grow, despite the cool economic headwinds.

www.purafacades.co.uk

STIRLING PRIZE WINNERS (1996 - 2022)

:

1996 University of Salford

1997 Music School, Stuttgart

1998 American Air Museum, Duxford

1999 Lords Cricket Ground – Media Centre

2000 Peckham Library and Media Centre

2001 Magna, Rotherham

2002 Millennium Bridge, Gateshead

2003 Laban Dance Centre, London

2004 30 St Mary Axe (aka The Gherkin)

2005 The Scottish Parliament

2006 Barajas Airport, Madrid

2007 Museum of Modern Literature, Marbach, Germany

2008 Accordia, Cambridge

2009 Maggie’s London

2010 MAXXI Museum, Rome

2011 Evelyn Grace Academy, London

2012 Sainsbury’s Laboratory, University of Cambridge

2013 Astley Castle, Nuneaton

2014 Everyman Theatre, Liverpool

2015 Burntwood School, London

2016 Newport Street Gallery

2017 Hastings Pier

2018 Bloomberg, London

2019 Goldsmith Street, Norwich

2021 Kingston University Townhouse, London

2022 New Library, Magdalene College

The New Library at Magdalene College is a triumph of timber and brick

This Children’s home in Fussach, Austria, uses wood and terracotta to create a welcoming yet clean exterior

This kindergarten in Copenhagen employs ingeniouslycut terracotta baguettes and lamella to produce a relaxing and protective environment for young children

PROPOSED REVISIONS TO THE NPPF

After a year of political turmoil and a bank bench rebellion stalling the progress of the Government’s ‘flagship’ Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill, it had been hoped that the publication of a revised NPPF would introduce some much-needed stability to planning and development, writes Elizabeth Beighton, Director at Boyer (part of Leaders Romans Group).

Un fortunately, the long-awaited proposed revisions to the NPPF, published on 22nd December, have already evidently achieved the exact opposite.

Local authorities are already citing the NPPF consultation as a reason to delay progress on local plans. Furthermore, if implemented, many of the policy document revisions will almost certainly contribute to further delays.

O ne such example is, ironically, within the chapter ‘Providing certainty through local and neighbourhood plans’. It is proposed that protection for neighbourhood plans will be extended from those that are up to two years old to those that are five years old; also that tests which currently require local planning authorities (LPAs) to demonstrate a minimum housing land supply and to have delivered the minimum set out in the Housing Delivery Test will be removed.

T his increasingly ‘bottom-up’ approach – otherwise generally referred to as localism (the Government’s enduring flagship policy dating back to 2012) – is indicative of a rebalance in the relationship between the national elements of the planning system (primarily the Planning Inspectorate)

and the local level (councillors and communities), which is evident throughout the proposed changes. With the endeavour evidently now being to ultimately make it considerably more difficult for developers to gain planning consent on appeal. The terminology used is key: the secretary of state has said that he will instruct the planning inspectorate that it should: “No long over-ride sensible local decision making.” However, how do we all define ‘sensible’?

Forcing inspectors’ decisions to comply with local sentiment will likely inhibit the ability of the planning inspectorate to determine the future of a scheme on the basis of policy compliance. Essentially prioritising local (political) whims over professional experience and overview, thus making the local community (however this might be defined) the ultimate arbiter of a planning application – are we essentially and seriously talking about planning by local referendum?

I f we look hard enough, some positives can be found: the belief that the greater the community support, the greater the scheme will shift from being ideology to necessity. Currently, developers must evidence some support through consultation on a planning application to ensure its success; in future, they

IS A DIRECTOR AT BOYER

must ensure that a planning application meets the aspirations already set out by the local community. While, from a professional point of view, I do not necessarily believe that this delivers a better scheme, it may have the advantage of avoiding a clash with the local community at a later stage in the process (although how likely this is, in reality, maybe is another question). Ultimately, the secretary of state appears to have been forced into replacing objective structure and policy with a bottom-up approach that will vary considerably across LPAs and even within individual LPA administrative areas themselves. It is far from ideal, but it is one that clients may have to abide by.

T he consultation on the revised NPPF runs until 2nd March, and the Government has committed to a further round of consultation later in the year

www.boyerplanning.co.uk

ELIZABETH BEIGHTON

BOYER

AHEAD OF THE EXPECTED

The UK’s ambitious net-zero targets mean there is a real need to decarbonise both commercial and residential buildings across the UK. So, as heat pump technology has advanced over the years, it has become clear that they will play a major role in providing a stepping stone to full decarbonisation.

Discover how LG’s innovative Therma V, air-to-water, all-in-one, Monobloc Heat Pump can help you and your Clients.

https://www.lg.com/uk/heating-awhp

The LG Therma V operates on Fluorinated Greenhouse Gas (R32)

10 ESSENTIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR GREEN BUILDING DESIGN

An alarmingly large percentage of the world’s carbon emissions can be traced back to residential and domestic buildings. With this statistic in mind, transitioning to more sustainable building methods and retrofitting structures in accordance with green initiatives can really help to reduce CO 2 emissions, says Jonathan Spencer, Founder and Director of JPS Project Management Services.

Asi de from simply being good for the environment, green buildings exist to utilise the natural resources surrounding the structure, whilst also reducing occupants’ reliance on artificial devices. Here, I run through some vital considerations for all those looking to sustainably create or renovate an existing building.

Structural design

C ombining the building and construction industry being the largest consumer of raw materials with the continuing growth of the population and increasing necessity for new homes, finding solutions that reduce resource depletion is becoming more and more essential. Utilising recycled, renewable, refurbished, salvaged and recourse and energyefficient materials are all viable options.

Thoughtful and effective management and usage of construction materials is a concern of significant importance in any building project. Employing productive techniques that ensure resource conservation and material efficiency is crucial.

C hoosing the right building material

A relatively obvious but extremely practical step towards constructing a green building is choosing sustainable materials. Your choices at this stage will be crucial in determining the impact your

building will have on the environment. Concrete, steel, wood, glass, drywall and asphalt shingles are just a few examples of recycled building materials.

C hoosing recycled materials reduces the need for non-biodegradable products whilst also reducing the amount of waste going to landfill. Furthermore, aside from the actual material being used, it’s ideal to source sustainable material locally, as it helps the community whilst also minimising transportation costs.

Consider the orientation of the building

Maximising the warmth of the sun, wind patterns, kerb appeal and drainage system are all aspects that come into play when considering the orientation of the building. With energy costs on the rise, now it’s more important than ever to capitalise on natural energy and thermal comfort. A strategically-designed floorplan, for example, will see frequently-used areas at the south of the property, providing occupants with warm and cool relief during the winter and summer, respectively.

P lanning for tree shade is a crucial component in passive solar design, too. Age, species and growth rate must all be considered. As should heat transfer during colder months – installing large windows wherever possible is certainly advisable, but they must be chosen

efficiently, with the appropriate glazing, depending on the building type.

S olar shading

T he efficiency of a green building is directly impacted by solar shading and control. At its core, solar shading is the process of eliminating direct sunlight and heat in an effort to efficiently keep a space cool. They also reduce your reliance on HVAC systems and artificial lighting.

F ixed solar shading is a structural feature that blocks or reflects sunlight. To implement this method effectively, you’ll need to track the sun’s path and direction. Dynamic solar shading, on the other hand, refers to interior features that offer optimal thermal performance. Shade fabrics are the most popular option here and, once installed, can complement the overall design of the space, whilst saving on energy significantly.

Window-wall ratio (WWR)

A crucial design choice that will affect a building’s energy consumption; the WWR is the section of the exterior wall, consisting of windows, that is of significant value in determining the energy performance of a structure.

Windows can impact the HVAC system, as they can cause twice as much energy loss as a wall in their place. The number and size of windows, therefore, should depend on the area’s climatic conditions.

Building envelope

P ut simply, the building envelope divides the interior and exterior parts of your space; the physical separator between the conditioned and unconditioned environment. Shelter, security, moisture control, daylight access, indoor air quality and solar and thermal control are just a few of the building envelope’s primary functions. The envelope can also be built differently, depending on location. A loose envelope, for example, allows for better airflow. A tight envelope, on the other hand, helps to control the structure’s inout airflow.

Smart lighting

L ighting will have an effect on any occupant’s health, productivity and comfort – and also accounts for up to 20% of a building’s total energy usage – so implementing efficient lighting solutions should be high up on the list of priorities.

Utilising as much natural light as possible is the best way of establishing sustainable lighting within your building. This naturally helps to reduce lighting costs whilst also being a much healthier form of light. When natural light is not enough, however, CFL or LED lights are ideal for minimising heat pollution and energy consumption.

Water conservation

W hen it comes to green building, water quality and regulations are considered fundamental objectives. Pipes must be regularly maintained, and waterconserving fixtures should be installed to reduce water loss. It’s also worth practising rainwater collection – as this can be used for toilets and landscaping –and installing an efficient drainage system with harvesting canisters.

Energy usage

Fossil fuels may have paved the way for the technological marvels we have now, but they’re also responsible for the trapped heat causing global warming. Thankfully, we now have alternative sources of power, such as daylighting, natural ventilation and solar panels. It’s essential to implement a more intelligent approach towards energy consumption in the current climate, whether working on a green building or not.

Waste management

S trategically-placed refuse waste chutes and disposal boxes are key elements of responsible waste management. The simple yet strict implementation of reduce, reuse and recycle practices will drastically help to reduce landfill waste. Proper planning will be needed to achieve this, with certain areas within the facility dedicated to waste management.

I n order to drastically reduce the energy and emissions rate of the construction industry, green buildings are a necessity. Furthermore, by applying such efficient practices, you stand to gain shorter investment returns, a reduction in operational and power costs and increased asset value, with more and more people choosing to go green.

www.jpspms.co.uk

A well-designed, green building will actually save money

REDUCING YOUR CARBON OUTPUT WITH LED LIGHTING UPGRADES

Specifiers and architects must harness the benefits of the most up-todate LED lighting solutions as part of their strategies to combat embodied and operational carbon, and help building owners to reduce their energy usage, writes Tamlite’s Debbie-Sue Farrell.

Th e last 12 months have brought a greatly increased awareness of the intersection – and interdependence – between building technology and energy efficiency. With the commercial property sector facing unprecedented challenges as many businesses move towards a more flexible hybrid operational model, and the ongoing unpredictability of energy prices, there is an onus on specifiers and architects to help building owners and tenants to operate in as energy efficient a way as possible.

Simultaneously, the level of knowledge that individual organisations have about the role of individual building systems in achieving a low-carbon future has risen markedly. The overwhelming shift away from traditional light sources to LED systems

during the past 10 years is a case in point. But, increasingly, building managers and other stakeholders are also cognisant of the connection between their use of technology and obligations to concepts such as embodied carbon and operational carbon – as well as whole-life carbon, which is the ‘grand total’ of the two types.

The use of these terms is giving a welcome sense of definition – and urgency – to the discussion around energy efficiency in buildings. To briefly recap, operational carbon is specifically concerned with the energy required to actually use light fittings over their entire lifecycle. Embodied carbon pertains to everything that is not directly involved in day-to-day operations – for example, installation, maintenance, materials and so on.

TAMLITE

E mbodied carbon, in particular, has been in the spotlight recently thanks to the arrival of a new publication by CIBSE entitled ‘Embodied Carbon in Building Services: A Calculation Methodology’ (TM65) 1 . Acknowledging that the embodied carbon related to building services design can be considerable over a building’s lifetime – not least due to the choice of materials and the frequency with which replacements are required –TM65 provides guidance on how to use environmental product declarations (EPDs) to assess the embodied carbon of building services equipment. Where EPDs are not available, it offers a methodology by which the embodied carbon can be estimated.

Placed in a purely lighting context, this approach means designers can compare one lighting solution to another in a systematic fashion. It can also be used by other parties – including engineers and specifiers – to generate data that encompasses an entire building, resulting in a more rounded picture of its embodied carbon status.

A gift to low-carbon strategies

T he momentum behind TM65 has been building steadily since publication, and it’s important that everyone involved in both construction and the lifecycle of a building has a good grounding in the CIBSE document. For building owners and operators, it’s likely that alignment with TM65 will be sought

after in the future as it provides such a transparent methodology. For specifiers and architects, it offers a consistent benchmark as they review the carbon output of their buildings and the systems that serve them.

T he modernisation of lighting stock has accelerated dramatically in recent years, and you won’t find too many commercial buildings now where there is zero trace of LED. But it’s worth explaining briefly just how advantageous LED lighting can be to achieving a lowcarbon infrastructure.

O n the operational carbon side, LED technology routinely makes it possible to reduce energy consumption by twothirds. It is certain that future generations of products will be even more efficient.

Of course, large-scale reductions in energy consumption also equate to significant cost savings – generally between 60 and 80% – when compared to traditional equivalents, as well as ROIs that can be as little as one or two years for even sizeable deployments. In the current climate – in which rising energy prices are expected to lead to a swathe of business insolvencies – the benefits of LED seem even more stark.

T he implications for embodied carbon can also be profound. Replacement and maintenance are much reduced because the lifecycle of LEDs is far longer than predecessor technologies. On the basis that LED lights now afford at least 50,000 hours of operation, and the lights are used in a workplace for 10 hours per day, it could be that their lifespan will be well over 13 years. Then there is the simple fact that LEDs fail much less frequently than, say, fluorescents – meaning that there is less call for replacements or the labour required to install them. With an increased tendency for in-house technicians to be based remotely, it equates to less travelrelated carbon as well.

I f all goes to plan, the next few years are going to be transformative for the use of energy in the built environment. Empowered by methodologies such as TM65, the accessibility and accuracy of building carbon calculation will continue to improve. Governments and authorities will stress the correlation between building efficiency and the net-zero goals to which individual countries are committed and make laws that reinforce it.

A t least, that’s what needs to happen. The latest edition of the PwC Net Zero Economy Index revealed that the decarbonisation rate had fallen to 0.5% – the lowest level for a decade – whilst the required annual rate of decarbonisation had subsequently risen to 15.2%, which is 11 times faster than the global average achieved since 2000 2 . In short, we are currently nowhere near the kind of progress needed to hit the 1.5°C maximum warming target.

I mproving a building’s lighting is comparatively one of the most straightforward things that can be done to reduce carbon output, and it should, therefore, be a key priority for all building designers and specifiers.

www.tamlite.co.uk

FOOTNOTE:

1https://www.cibse.org/knowledge-research/ knowledge-portal/embodied-carbon-in-buildingservices-a-calculation-methodology-tm65

2https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/news-room/pressreleases/2022/net-zero-economy-index-2022.html

THE ROLE OF THE HEAT PUMP IN TODAY’S CHANGING CLIMATE

With rising energy tariffs and increasing awareness of our environmental impact, maximising energy efficiency plays a key role in helping to lower operational costs and meet the required regulations. While it is, without doubt, a difficult time, some steps can be taken, which can also help to accelerate the transition to the UK Government’s net-zero goal for 2050. Jason Allen, Commercial Product Manager at Hamworthy Heating, explores.

En ergy efficiency is the attempt to reduce the amount of energy used by making improvements to technology and buildings, which can, in turn, help to lower operational costs and increase sustainability. It is also central to achieving the UK’s commitment to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Regulation driving change

T he ‘Heat and Buildings Strategy’, launched in October 2021, is the UK Government’s plan to decarbonise virtually all heat in buildings and is fundamental to the net-zero goal. At the heart of this strategy is phasing out the use of fossil fuels to heat buildings by 2035 whilst increasing the application of low-carbon products, fuels and energy sources.

T he uplift of Building Regulations’

Conservation of fuel and power: Approved Document L’, introduced in December 2021 and in force as of June 2022, is the legislative method adopted to ensure new buildings will be fitted with low-carbon heating and high levels of energy efficiency achieved. Under the new framework, decarbonising heating is key to cutting emissions across commercial buildings.

If we look past the building fabric and focus solely on the heating system, one of the main points highlighted in the latest regulations states that a heating system must be designed to work at 55ºC flow. This new legislation will effectively mean an end to like-for-like boiler replacements and will eventually phase out the use of non-condensing units in new and existing buildings altogether, except under exceptional circumstances. This means that only high-efficiency condensing gas boilers will meet the minimum requirements. However, when it comes to sustainability, there’s no doubt that heat pumps play a key role towards achieving the net-zero goal.

How do heat pumps work?

Heat pumps gather heat energy from the surrounding air, which, via a heat exchanger, is transferred into the heat pump’s refrigerant and turned into vapour. The vapour is passed through a compressor and turned into a highpressure, high-temperature refrigerant, raising the temperature to a point that can deliver heat throughout a building’s heating system. Heat pumps don’t require high external temperatures to function; they can continue to operate with external air temperatures down to -20ºC.

What makes heat pump technology energy efficient?

T he energy efficiency of heat pumps is in no doubt; they are up to three times as efficient as a gas boiler. Heat pumps change low-grade heat into useable heat, with the most popular type being the air-source heat pump. This uses a small amount of electrical energy to transfer the ambient heat in the air outside of a building and move it inside, where, at a higher temperature, it can then be used for underfloor heating, radiators or maintaining a supply of hot water.

D elivering up to 4kWh of energy for every 1kWh of electricity used to power it, heat pumps can be 300 to 400% more efficient than electric heating alone. But the benefits don’t end there. In addition to providing a controlled climate with improved air quality, once correctly installed by a qualified installer with maintenance in line with manufacturers’ recommendations, a heat pump could last between 10 and 25 years or more.

Different types of heat pumps

Air-source heat pumps are divided into two types: split and monobloc units. A split heat pump has both an outside unit (incorporating the heat exchanger and compressor with pipework containing refrigerant connecting to the internal hydrobox). A monobloc heat pump contains all the refrigerant components in the outdoor unit, leaving more space inside the property. The benefit of this means monobloc units are easy to install and maintain.

Features to consider

Accurate control of any heating appliance is crucial to efficient operation, so ensuring appliances are sized to meet the correct load requirements of the building is the first step. Another point to mention here is hybrid heating systems. For larger installations, look for a model that can be combined with a suitable highefficiency boiler.

I n terms of efficiency, we also need to consider the CoP (Coefficient of Performance) of a heat pump. This is achieved by dividing the output Kw by the input Kw; for example, if the output is 5Kw and the input electricity is 2kW, then the CoP for the system is 2.5. Simply put, the higher the CoP, the more efficient the heat pump, which equals a lower cost operation.

C ontrols are another important feature, particularly when it comes to unpredictable UK weather. A temperature change will affect the heat load required to warm up a building. Here, a heat pump with an inverter controller compressor will adjust accordingly and accurately meet the heat demand of a building.

Refrigerant is also a vital component of a heat pump and is an important factor to consider when it comes to determining sustainability. There are a variety of refrigerants in use for heat transfer, but some are of questionable sustainability and raise environmental concerns. Heat pumps that use refrigerants with a low Global Warming Potential (GWP) should be a priority.

L astly, when it comes to specifying a heat pump, consider brand reputation and look for a manufacturer that provides backup and long-term reliable technical support and customer service.

A step towards the future

D espite short-term support measures from the Government, fuel prices remain significantly higher than a year ago, and the future is uncertain. However, what is clear is that this rise in energy prices, combined with the latest regulations, will see many existing buildings and most new builds requiring upgrades, particularly in terms of meeting the required energy-efficiency standards set out by the Government’s 2050 deadline.

CONTINUING THE FIGHT AGAINST COVID

Three years ago, COVID was a new disease that was hitting the headlines and would lead to a global pandemic and national lockdowns. The benefits of using ventilation to fight the virus were clear from the start, and the vital importance of ventilation in combatting COVID only continued to grow. Specifiers and architects have taken on board the ventilation changes needed for effective infection control, but what do they need to consider going forward? David Cook, Technical Product Manager at Vent-Axia, explains more.

Th e essential role of ventilation in the fight against COVID was first mentioned in the Government’s COVID press briefing on 29th April 2020, which cited ventilation as being critical in combatting the virus. At the briefing, Professor Jonathan Van-Tam, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, said: “There is a definite truism across all of the scientific literature that ventilation is a most critical part of reducing transmission from respiratory viruses.”

While many of us are now returning to normality, three years on, the threat of COVID has not gone away. COVID figures from the ONS published at the beginning of December showed an 8% rise in people with COVID being admitted to hospital, and it’s clear that infection control to tackle COVID should still be high on the agenda for specifiers and architects.

W ith ventilation playing a key role in providing resilience to infection in high-traffic areas, it’s vital to ensure that commercial settings have effective ventilation to protect the health and wellbeing of workforces to prevent the spread of COVID while tackling indoor air pollution too.

Ventilation

T he COVID pandemic put a spotlight on the essential role of ventilation and led to the Royal Academy of Engineering report, ‘Infection Resilient Environments: Buildings that keep us healthy and safe’. It looks at how we design, manage and operate buildings

and how we can make infrastructure more resilient to infection both now and going forward. Published in July 2021, the initial report highlights the importance of achieving good IAQ as well as reducing transmission of COVID and other infectious diseases, meaning many of the suggested changes have relevance well beyond COVID, including air cleaning.

I n addition, the amended Part F (Means of Ventilation) of the Building Regulations further highlights the importance of health and wellbeing.

‘Approved Document F, Volume 2: Buildings other than dwellings’ covers both new build and refurbishment and now looks to both minimise the entry of external pollutants and ensure humidity and pollutants are extracted effectively and efficiently. There is also a sub-section entitled ‘Indoor Air Quality Monitoring’, which states that in new buildings, the occupiable rooms “should have a means of monitoring the indoor air quality. This may be achieved using CO 2 monitors or other means of measuring indoor air quality”. These actions will help ensure better indoor air quality in non-residential properties. There are CO 2 sensors that can be discreetly located on a wall and can intelligently boost ventilation based on the detected CO 2 levels. They can also provide a warning indication for occupants if CO 2 levels rise above acceptable levels so occupants can activate purge ventilation when required.

Taking action

T here are three key actions to take to improve IAQ and tackle COVID: reduce the number of pollutants introduced into the air; dilute the pollutants – including COVID virus particles – in the air by ensuring there is adequate ventilation introducing fresh, clean air into the home and buildings and purify by adding an air purifier to remove the remaining pollutants from the air.

I ndoor air can contain over 900 chemicals, particulates, biological materials, viruses and bacteria. Each of us breathes 9000 litres a day, with poor IAQ affecting the health of everyone. It is, therefore, vital to reduce indoor air pollution by reducing the number of pollutants put into the air by specifying building products wisely.

T here are various solutions for diluting pollutants in the air in commercial settings. For ventilation solutions where ducting cannot be easily installed, extract and supply fans, such as Vent-Axia’s Lo-Carbon T-Series, can provide background or purge ventilation and are easily fitted to an existing window or through a wall.

A lternatively, heat recovery demand ventilation systems are ideal in an office situation since they automatically respond to the air quality needs of a space, supplying or extracting air only when, and to the extent to which, it is required. This is in contrast to traditional fixed-volume ventilation systems, which are either on or off, regardless of the conditions or the number of people in the room. Therefore, demand ventilation offers better indoor air quality in offices, as well as improved energy efficiency.

VENT-AXIA

A range of sensors, such as CO 2 PIR occupancy detection, humidity or temperature, are employed to determine the room’s air quality, adjusting the ventilation requirements automatically and managing the system’s ventilation rates accordingly. This means that the ventilation system is always running at the optimal fan speed, delivering the right airflow in response to the room’s climatic needs.

H eat recovery demand ventilation systems offer energy recovery, too, recovering a high percentage of energy that would otherwise be wasted. The system works by extracting the heat from the room’s warm, stale air before it is exhausted outside. It then preheats the fresh incoming air via the high-efficiency plate heat exchanger before supplying the warmed, fresh air to the room. Even in winter, the incoming air is tempered to a level that should avoid draughts without the need for re-heaters. But for the coldest weather, the latest systems now include frost heaters to provide a heating boost to achieve thermal comfort for occupiers.

W hile effective ventilation is essential for good IAQ, adding extra air purification in workplaces, hotels and schools can help ensure that viruses and pollutants are extracted from the air creating a healthier environment and helping stop the spread of viruses. Air purifiers, such as Vent-Axia’s PureAir Room, have been designed with an advanced six-stage filtration system to filter out mould, dust, viruses, PM2.5, VOCs, pet allergens and odours with HighEfficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters removing 99.9% of particles.

W ith COVID still a risk and the importance of good IAQ established, creating healthy and safe indoor environments is essential. Not only will this allow businesses to operate as usual, but it will also protect the health of all those using these spaces. Effective ventilation and air purification are proven methods to achieve this.

www.vent-axia.com

BUILD FOCUS:

MUSEUM ROOF REFURB EXHIBITS ARBOFLEX’S VERSATILITY

London spoils us for choice when it comes to museums and galleries. When one of the jewels in the capital’s crown needed a roof refurbishment, the task was not only to protect the museum’s priceless collection of artwork and artefacts but to extend the service life of the attraction’s Grade I Listed building too.

Ma in taining the museum’s complex network of roofs is critical to protecting both the building and its valuable exhibits, as well as ensuring a safe and comfortable place for staff and visitors. As part of a wider programme of upgrade and maintenance works, a roof refurbishment was required for multiple roof areas of the museum, which were nearing the end of their service life.

A lthough the existing roof coverings were largely asphalt, the requirement was for a liquid-applied waterproofing

membrane that could tackle the complex detailing requirements for the roofs while providing a high-performance retrofit solution compatible with the existing roof covering. A liquid system also had the advantage of overcoming the need for hot works, which, given the heritage and financial value of the building and its contents and the need for the museum to remain open to the public while the work was carried out, significantly reduced risk.

S pecialist roofing supplies merchant, Chandlers Roofing Supplies,

LUKE JONES

recommended the use of Carlisle’s Arboflex PU; a moisture-activated liquid waterproofing system that usually requires no primer, is compatible with most existing roof coverings and provides speed and ease of installation for flat roofs and semi-pitched roof areas. Roofing contractor, Martin’s Roofing, was appointed to carry out the project, leveraging the company’s experience in heritage refurbishment and liquid systems, and the team was trained in the installation of the Arboflex system by the Carlisle Academy.

Luke Jones, ARBOFLEX PU Product Manager at Carlisle Construction Materials, talks us through the details of a roof refurbishment, with complex detailing requirements, for one of London’s popular museums.

T he project was delivered in three phases, with phase one comprising an overlay of new Arboflex waterproofing onto seven gallery roofs, phase two an overlay of drainage outlets, walkways and gulleys on domed roof areas and phase three the installation of a warm roof buildup for the photographic gallery, following asbestos removal and installation of new steelwork and a new roof deck.

Perfect pitch

T he first phase of the roof refurbishment involved seven roofs with a 45º pitch, totalling an area of around 600m 2 . Each roof has 30m-long glazed sections on one side with an asphalt roof covering on the other, leading to a drainage gulley.

T he glazing was covered by boards to protect it during the roof refurbishment and the Martin’s Roofing team prepared the roof, using Carlisle’s Arboflex PU sealant to repair any cracks in the asphalt prior to installing the Arboflex liquid waterproofing as an overlay.

N o primer or vapour control layer was required, but the contractor mixed Carlisle’s thickener with the Arboflex liquid and left it to stand for an hour to provide the viscosity required for the pitched areas. The Arboflex liquid was rollered onto the roof, and the system’s glass fibre matting was laid onto the wet membrane prior to the application of more liquid in a wet-on-wet installation process. This included complete encapsulation of all the gulleys, which lead to external drainage outlets. Once the membrane had cured, Carlisle’s U/V protection topcoat was applied, taking the installation from a 10-year system to a BBA-accredited, 20-year service life.

Complex detailing

T he domes on the roof areas involved in phase two of the installation do not require a waterproof covering, so

this phase was entirely made up of complex detailing. The Arboflex liquid waterproofing system was an ideal solution for this because it can be applied accurately to the contours of the roof surface. This included taking the waterproofing 200mm up the vertical stonework, with no primer or vapour control layer, and applying it directly onto the roof surface. The Arboflex system was applied around the base of each dome, on the gulleys and to the upstands. The Martin’s Roofing team then dressed the upstands with traditional lead flashings, providing dual protection against water ingress, along with a heritage aesthetic.

Robust new roof

For the photographic gallery, the requirement was for a completely new warm roof build up, following the installation of new steelwork, soundproof panels, and a ply roof deck by Quinn London.

T he installation team began by applying Carlisle’s FG35 primer to the roof. Carlisle’s Alutrix 600 vapour control layer was then laid onto the wet primer, with its bituminous face down and aluminium face up, prior to the installation of 160mm PIR insulation board. The PIR boards were then primed, and the installation team laid an Arboflex carrier membrane onto the insulation, with 50mm laps, to create a smooth finish that avoids any joins between the boards from being noticeable through the waterproof membrane. Finally, the Arboflex PU liquid waterproofing system was installed in a wet-on-wet process, and Carlisle’s U/V protection topcoat was applied to the cured system to achieve the 20-year guarantee.

T he photographic gallery phase included extensive detailing to accommodate the rooftop plant and equipment installed onto the completed roof, including around 50 stanchions rising

through the roof as fixings for mechanical plant and screens. The detailing requirements also included adapting the drainage to improve resilience against standing water while working with the original building design, with channels cut into the brickwork at the gable ends to provide additional rainwater drainage to the existing gulley and four outlets.

D ean Martin from Martin’s Roofing comments: “The goal has been to protect the aesthetics and integrity of the building while delivering a robust defence against water ingress and delivering a low-maintenance solution. The Arboflex PU liquid waterproofing system has fulfilled all these goals. There have been zero issues with water ingress, despite subsequent storms and torrential rainfall.”

www.carlisleconstructionmaterials.com

EPDM: WHAT SPECIFIERS AND CONTRACTORS NEED TO KNOW

Carl Bailey, Regional Technical Manager for Elevate (formerly Firestone Building Products), offers best practice advice on specifying and installing EPDM roofing membranes.

ELEVATE

Ma de of synthetic rubber, EPDM is a single-ply roofing membrane that can be used for flat and low-slope roofs on both commercial and residential buildings. Versatile, durable and easy to install, EPDM has been steadily growing in popularity.

A s a crucial component in the wider roofing system, EPDM can provide a robust waterproofing covering that can last for decades. To achieve this resilience and ensure the roof performs as expected, there are several factors to consider during the specification and installation process.

Meeting sustainability objectives

A waterproofing membrane can help specifiers to reduce environmental impact in several ways, including lowering carbon emissions and extending the roof’s life expectancy. EPDM is considered one of the most sustainable options, as it can also be reused and recycled.

Furthermore, a system such as RubberGard EPDM is chemically-inert. No toxic substances are released during its exceptional service life, allowing rainwater runoff to be collected for domestic use.

I f the roof design includes solar panels, EPDM will not be affected by the extra heat that is generated, avoiding any concerns about the membrane ageing faster than anticipated. EPDM is also suitable for green roofs as it is resistant to root penetration and strong enough to accommodate foot traffic associated with future maintenance.

Futureproofing

The prospect of more extreme weather in the coming years means that it is even more important to specify a highly-durable waterproofing membrane. Made from a synthetic rubber compound, an EPDM membrane provides a long-lasting solution for refurbishments as well as new builds. The flexibility of the material means it can be elongated by more than 300% without any detriment. This allows the membrane to return to its original shape and maintain its performance after any expansions or retractions caused by severe weather.

A s buildings continue to adapt to changing occupiers and to meet sustainability objectives, this should also be considered when specifying the waterproofing membrane. Choosing a material like EPDM will ensure the roof is fit for the future as the material can accommodate varied uses and withstand additional loads such as new plants or solar panels.

Installation methods

A n EPDM roofing membrane can be installed directly on most substrates. The membrane can be fully adhered, mechanically fixed or ballasted, largely depending on the size and type of roof. For large, open roof areas with few penetrations, a mechanically-attached system is the most suitable, providing a fast and cost-effective method.

The RubberGard EPDM system, for example, is mechanically attached using a non-penetrating system.

QuickSeam Reinforced Mechanical Attachment (RMA) strips are secured to the structural deck. Large panels of the waterproofing membrane will then be bonded to the framework of self-adhesive strips, meaning no fasteners are required to penetrate the waterproofing membrane.

A ballasted installation will require extra equipment to move the stones or pavers, but this can be completed quickly in all weather conditions. The ballast covering also provides additional mechanical protection for the waterproofing membrane.

T he most fully-adhered method is the most versatile and is particularly effective for smaller roof areas, unusual roof shapes and more complex penetrations. The EPDM membrane is bonded to the substrate using a specially-formulated adhesive. This solution is highly resistant to wind uplift and lightweight, making it suitable for roofs with limited loadbearing capacity.

Insulation and vapour control

I nsulation with a high compressive strength should be used if the EPDM membrane is being installed over the top. The use of rigid PIR (polyisocyanurate) foam insulation is recommended for roofs where maintenance access will be required throughout the roof’s service life. Greater resistance can be achieved using a high-density cover board on top of the insulation package.

H igh-density cover boards are ideal for a fully-adhered system where the insulation layer is not compatible with the adhesives. Non-combustible gypsum cover boards provide a highly durable option and are often required to achieve the higher ratings required on FM-Global projects.

To control condensation within the roof system, a suitable air and vapour control layer (AVCL) should be selected based on the temperature and relative humidity within the building, the deck type and the attachment method for the insulation and waterproofing layers. Installing a high-performance AVCL between the

structural deck and insulation will prevent condensation from forming and possible deterioration over time.

A system approach

For all projects, specifiers and contractors should look at the roof as a whole system, which requires every component to work together effectively to achieve the required performance. Technical advice should be obtained from the EPDM manufacturer, and the membrane should be applied in accordance with their guidelines. The system should be approved by a technical services team and installed by a fully trained, licensed contractor, enabling a long-term warranty to be obtained. www.holcimelevate.com

2023 BATHROOM TRENDS

Here, GROHE discusses the changing design requirements of consumers within bathroom spaces and the key trends influencing specifications and design throughout 2023.

GROHE

So me of the key macro influences currently impacting specification and design include urbanisation, hybrid living, open-plan layouts and increased demand for personalisation. Sitting amongst these trends, technology, sustainability and accessibility continue to have a great influence on design specification as homeowners demand more from their homes than ever before, with the way in which homeowners use their bathrooms shifting significantly in recent years.

T he current cost-of-living crisis globally is also undoubtedly impacting consumers’ choices and leading them to seek better value and quality reassurance from their product choices, prioritising purchases based on affordability and convenience above style and trends.

T he increased use of social media and the rise of home renovation and interior accounts has allowed many to have an insight into other’s homes and resulted in a shift towards a house-proud movement, which is, in turn, driving interior design to new heights. Homeowners are now able to be inspired and influenced at the touch of a button while also knowing what is currently trending within a few minutes. Homeowners are seeking to recreate styles and designs that would usually be seen in leading hotels or in professionally-designed residential

homes, taking direct inspiration from social media posts and trending designs.

H ere, Patrick Speck, Leader LIXIL Global Design EMENA, who is responsible for GROHE’s design, dives deeper into how urbanisation, a desire to be sustainable and health and wellbeing are impacting design trends in residential bathrooms and shaping design and specification requirements.

Urbanisation

D ensification in the urban landscape has led to a rethinking of design concepts, allowing individuals to enjoy the benefits of big cities without compromising on comfort. In addition, communal spaces such as co-living and co-working areas have emerged.

From this, the ‘Micro Living’ trend has arisen, which delivers intelligent, condensed living concepts that are built up of only essential elements, allowing homeowners to make efficient use of limited space and fulfil day-to-day needs.

I n the bathroom, wall-hung sanitaryware and multi-functional items are leading this trend, as homeowners seek to utilise as much space as possible and create a streamlined environment that is functional, convenient and thoughtfully designed. Elsewhere, space-saving fittings, such as motionactivated taps and concealed shower models, will be prioritised thanks to their compact profiles.

Sustainability

A s a nation, we are becoming increasingly more aware of the impact that we are having on the planet. In turn, this has had a direct influence on the housebuilder, specification and design industries as decision makers can be seen to be increasingly incorporating a sustainable ethos into their projects in a combined effort to be more environmentally responsible.

2 023’s consumer is more aware than ever of the consequences their actions are having on our planet. Coupled with the global cost-of-living crisis and the rising costs of household bills, with the rising cost of living being hugely impacted by the cost of energy prices, it’s expected that many will be favouring brands and products that offer conscious consumption, resource-saving credentials and value for money.

C onsumers are looking to invest in products that can support reducing utility bills in the long run with more efficiency when it comes to water and energy usage. When it comes to bathroom fittings specification, resource-saving products, such as low-flow shower heads and taps, are expected to increase in demand as consumers look to make considered purchases that offer both environmental and economic benefits.

Health and wellbeing

I n the hospitality sector, we see the borders of the bedroom and bathroom dissolving, likewise with the kitchen and living room in the residential sector.

W ith the rising awareness and significance of our mental health and wellbeing, it’s not surprising that the bathroom is viewed by many as a

sanctum and place for escapism within the home. These once purely functional rooms are no longer but are instead becoming integrated living spaces, where individual style and emotional connection are prioritised when it comes to design. A seamless approach to living, unwinding and socialising means conventional walls are now proverbial.

A s a result, throughout 2023, we expect functional fittings, such as taps, ceramics and showers, to demonstrate significant attention to detail as they are more on show. Through the increased desire of consumers designing these spaces according to their individual tastes and styles, functional elements now have greater importance when it comes to colour, material and finish. Here, coloured brassware and ceramics in bold shapes and colours will increase in demand as homeowners seek out products that will portray their individuality.

W hen it comes to colour, consumers will prioritise colours that offer optimism and joy, such as neutrals, bright metallics and pastels. The power of colour continues to grow in importance, and the notion of calm, kind and restorative colour is a core theme as wellness and health are prioritised.

www.grohe.co.uk/en_gb

FUTUREBUILD 2023 TAKES A STAND FOR A BETTER BUILT ENVIRONMENT

Futurebuild 2023 is set to provide architects, specifiers and contractors with the ideas, inspiration and innovative solutions that will help them create net-zero buildings faster, more safely and more efficiently. Taking place at ExCeL London from 7 to 9th March, the event will focus on our most pressing challenges in order to accelerate the shift to a net-zero built environment.

Sustainability remains at the core of this year’s show and is why Futurebuild 2023 is also urging architects, specifiers and contractors to act now and ‘take a stand’ on an issue it passionately believes will help propel the industry towards a more sustainable future.

Conference is ‘taking a stand’

The conference programme will bring together an outstanding line up of expert speakers to deliver the best possible understanding of what, collectively, we need to do to meet our climate challenges. The first day will focus on looking forward and why we need to develop the foresight necessary to break out of our current mindset. On day two, the conference will explore the nature of changing and especially ‘behaviour change’. Day three will move on to 'taking action', hearing from those who have been doing just that and exploring plans that can take society and the construction industry forward.

There are two notable sponsors of this year’s conference; SNRG and Hub Brussels.

Show sections and new spotlights

Futurebuild will be curated into eight show sections: Buildings sponsored by Steico, Digital sponsored by Zutec, Energy sponsored by Kensa Group, Retrofit sponsored by Elmhurst Energy, Sustainable Infrastructure sponsored by ACO, Interiors, Materials and Offsite. The event will also feature three new spotlights; Lighting in partnership with KNX UK; District Energy in partnership with UKDEA and FutureX Innovation sponsored by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS).

Platform for innovation

Innovation Trail that will give visitors the opportunity to explore revolutionary products, solutions and materials, and meet the leading thinkers behind these innovations. The Big Innovation Pitch will also return and offer exhibiting companies the chance of being crowned winner in 2023.

T hose attending can also find further inspiration at FutureX Innovation, which will shine a spotlight on start ups and SMEs who will bring never-before-seen innovations to the event. The spotlight will also include an Innovation Stage that will host the new Big Ideas Pitch.

Share the knowledge

C urated and delivered by over 90 industry-leading partners and featuring a stellar line up of over 300 speakers, the expanded seminar programme is bringing the whole industry together to debate and learn from each other. The programme features practical and actionable CPD-accredited

Futurebuild will continue to be the industry platform for innovation and features a wealth of opportunities to showcase the most innovative technology, products and services. At the heart of this is the return of the renowned www.futurebuild.co.uk

sessions so visitors can gain many CPD points in one visit and, at the same time, acquire the knowledge and skills that will help them in their day-to-day roles. Speakers will explore and tackle some of the industry’s biggest and most critical topics, from ‘zero-bills’ homes to material use, lighting design to biobased materials and building a circular future.

Futurebuild 2023 will take place from 7 to 9th March at London’s ExCeL. For more details, visit the website below.

D on’t miss out on this year’s event. Visitor registration is now open.

CASING SOLUTIONS

ARCHITECTURAL CASINGS – ENCASEMENT’S UNDERCOVER STORY

Decorative architectural casings are now a common feature in contemporary building design as they provide a versatile, effective and stylish method of concealing structural steelwork, concrete support columns and building services, often with the same product.

Th e use of column casings hasn’t always been as widespread as it is today. Originally, their primary role was purely to conceal structural supports with comparatively little consideration for the potential of adding visual appeal to a building.

H owever, since the early 1980s, their use has grown dramatically as specifiers recognised the benefits, which stimulated demand for a wider choice of materials, sizes and increased aesthetics to meet a broader range of applications.

I nfluenced by the increasing scope of specifications, Peterborough-based decorative casing specialist, Encasement, continually evolved and expanded its product range to meet these wider project requirements.

T he combination of practicality, versatility and design has been at the centre of the wide range of projects undertaken by the company in a diversity of sectors that includes retail, education and healthcare, as well as hotel, sport and leisure, commercial refurbishment and building re-purposing projects.

K ey to the broad scope of projects that have been undertaken is the number of choices available to specifiers. These include several materials, as well as an array of finishes and the option of selecting from standard shapes and sizes or creating bespoke manufactured solutions to meet the exact requirements of a specific project.

A s a result, Encasement products have been specified and installed by many well-known brands, including Porsche, TATA, Premier Inn, Kia, Halfords and Tesco, together with a wide

range of retail outlets, hospitals, universities, leisure projects and office buildings across the UK.

T he company’s column casings products include the preformed MDF Circa and plywood Quadra ranges, together with the Forma metal range. In addition, Encasement’s range also includes two moulded column casings. Polyma GRP is moulded from glass-reinforced polymer, while Gypra GRG is manufactured from glass-reinforced gypsum.

The range is completed by Metza, which is a specialised solution for use with mezzanine floors that provides up to two hours of fire protection to the floor support columns.

A lthough every column casing in Encasement’s range is suitable for interior use, the Polyma and Forma ranges are also widely used for exterior projects due to their inherent weather resistance and durability.

Available in aluminium or stainless steel, Forma casings can be specified as circles, with diameters from 250 up to 1000mm, or in square, rectangular or hexagonal forms, as well as unique custom profiles. The choice of finishes is also extensive and, in addition to RAL colour PPC coating options, various brushed, anodised, embossed and textured finishes are also available, including Rimex.

S trength, durability and colour choice are also features of the Polyma GRP range. As the products are moulded, this manufacturing process allows a high degree of design flexibility with shape; size and colour options all open to specification to meet bespoke project requirements, as well as standard profile options.

At Kia, Forma column casings are stacked to reach the full floor-toceiling height of the 8.1m showroom

Projects, such as Kia Motors’ major London showroom, Premier Inn’s flagship hotel in Cardiff and the Birmingham Dental Hospital, perfectly illustrate the versatility of Polyma and Forma column casing solutions and suitability for bespoke solutions.

A t Kia, Forma column casings are stacked to reach the full floor-to-ceiling height of the 8.1m showroom, while the Premier Inn uses yellow GRP casings to conceal diagonal structural steelwork along the complete length of the hotel’s exterior. Forma is again used at Birmingham’s Dental Hospital to create a 25m-high semi-elliptical design as part of its glazed front elevation.

W here casings are required purely for interior use, the Circa and Quadra ranges allow circular, square and rectangular profiles to be specified while also providing a wide choice of finish options, with decorative high-pressure laminate (HPL) finishes being the most popular.

I n addition to resisting damage, scuffs and scratches, laminates provide the specifier with an extensive range of finish options, which include plain colours, wood grains and metallics, as well as textured and real wood veneers. Circa is also available as an unfinished plain casing for onsite painting and decoration.

C irca and Quadra casings are designed purely for interior use and are manufactured from UKTRcompliant, sustainably-sourced timbers. Within each range, circular and square profiles can be specified in a wide range of sizes, as well as extended circles and rectangular profiles that use additional presized infill panels to give greater design versatility.

A s a result, a wide range of sizes is available, which allows specifiers to choose not only circular and square, but also extended circles and rectangular profiles that use additional pre-sized infill panels to give greater design versatility.

A mong the many Circa installations are Liverpool University, Gateshead International Stadium and Gatwick Airport’s South Terminal are major installations while typical Quadra projects include Farnborough College sixth form centre, Worksop Bus Terminal and the Dame Kelly Holmes Sports Centre.

A longside the company’s column casings, its Vecta building lining system provides a high-quality solution for interior wall linings, lift lobbies, bulkheads and reveals. Combining practicality, aesthetics and durability, Vecta is widely used in retail, education and commercial buildings, such as Tesco, South Bank University and Pret a Manger, as well as prestigious office developments, including Wellington House and the Carmine Building in London.

To support its wide product range further, Encasement also provides a supply and install service, which enables the company to maintain complete control over the installation while also providing dedicated solutions to meet the specifications and requirements of column casing and building linings projects.

A full range of literature, case studies and detailed product information is available online from the company’s website. In addition, detail drawings in DWG and PDF formats are available for download alongside specification clauses and brochures covering the complete product range.

The Vecta building lining system provides a high-quality solution for interior wall linings

The Premier Inn uses yellow Polyma GRP casings to conceal diagonal structural steelwork along the complete length of the hotel’s exterior

Forma is used at Birmingham Dental Hospital to create a 25m-high semi-elliptical design as part of its glazed front elevation

BASEMENT DRAINAGE –THE NEW GENERATION

Me et the new generation – with a unique design, impressive storage capacity, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and exceptional durability.

T he redesigned V3, V4, V6 and V3 foul chambers deliver the core performance expected from the Delta brand, not forgetting the all-important cost savings – less excavation costs, less labour costs and less requirement for concrete/steel (when housed).

“ We strive to be known for the quality of our products, using our industry knowledge base as a starting block. Delta’s vision and values balance evaluating our products with market demand to ensure both align,” explains Delta’s Founder, Christopher Burbridge.

“ The Delta V3, V4, V6 and V3 foul chambers had their origins almost 20 years ago. The industry has substantially changed with an emphasis on continuous waterproofing approaches and reducing risk. Delta is at the forefront of encouraging and promoting best practices. We believe in sharing our vision and clear performance metrics with our customers.

“ Delta’s approach is to share both our technical knowledge with product data in a clear, concise and consistent fashion.

“ We haven’t just reinvented a product or two; we have reinvented our product range to meet industry needs. The wheel has been reinvented thousands of times to serve thousands of different purposes. It had to be reinvented because it was being used for different purposes. The world changes from technologies to expectations. As the world changes, we need new and various kinds of wheels to help us solve the same problems.

“ Our new distribution hub will significantly increase Delta’s capabilities in terms of stock handling and storage. It will also allow us to reduce lead times on all basement drainage products, including our bespoke range of packaged pump stations.

In January, Delta unveiled its new Basement Drainage Distribution Hub, which comprises 3500ft2 of space dedicated to basement drainage-related products, from package pump stations, high-water level alarms, control panels, battery backups to pipework and fittings, supporting the team’s ability to meet the growing demand for quality basement drainage items. In addition to the increased space, the warehouse features modern staff facilities and a dedicated training and breakout space.

To explore the new range of Delta pumps, visit the package pumps and basement drainage systems section on Delta Membranes’ website.

W hatever the needs of your project, you can rely on Delta’s technical team to ensure you get the right advice, support and practical help at exactly the right time it’s required.

Delta Membrane Systems, an innovator within the waterproofing industry, is proud to be launching a new range of basement drainage systems pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in sump pump applications.

DELTA MEMBRANE SYSTEMS

Liquid Roofing & Waterproofing

Long term protection for flat roofs, buildings and critical structures

KEMPEROL® The first choice for liquid membranes

Warm roofs, inverted roofs, green roofs, podium Whatever your requirements, we have a certified and proven solution to meet your needs.

With over 60 years’ experience, there’s not many challenges we haven’t faced, confronted and overcome.

Contact us to discuss

Whether it’s a school, hospital, hotel, car park, balcony, the list is endless, KEMPEROL® has a range of cold applied products to suit every application.

visit www.kemperol.co.uk

To find out more about the KEMPEROL® range of products

Tel: 01925 445532

Email: enquiries@kempersystem.co.uk

TIMELESS CHARACTER WITH NORDIC BRASS WEATHERED

A new commercial building in Stockholm is defined by its carefullydetailed facades of Nordic Brass Weathered pre-oxidised copper alloy from Aurubis.

In the Nattugglan neighbourhood on the island of Södermalm, developer Vasakronan has replaced an inefficient and outdated office block with a new, LEED Platinum-certified modern building. The new Folkungagatan 44 project provides 22,000m 2 of space, largely for offices but also including conference spaces, plus retail outlets and a restaurant on the open, street-facing ground floor.

Equator Stockholm Architects’ design for the new building reinvigorates its pivotal location with clearly-announced entrances, better connectivity and interaction with the catholic cathedral and other surrounding community buildings. Its massing comprises a five-storey block with two further storeys, each stepping back to generate ‘living roof’ gardens.

T he building’s strong presence in the city is defined by its almost classicallystructured facades of fenestration and Nordic Brass Weathered cladding with a natural colour that complements its surroundings. Carefully-detailed and

executed flat panels, ‘fluted’ mullions and horizontal mouldings between windows, copings and other details align clearlyexpressed vertical joints throughout.

Subtle, varied surface

T he Nordic Brass Weathered copper alloy provides a rich, naturally-varied brown surface with a high-quality, timeless character. The surface is created by burnishing at the Aurubis copper mill, providing straightaway the same oxidised brown surface that otherwise develops over time in the environment.

Lead Architect, Louise von Bahr, says: “We wanted the cladding to have a contrasting mix of qualities. It should have personality but, at the same time, be subtle. And we wanted to create a modern look but also matching the cathedral next door. We decided to use Nordic Brass Weathered cladding designed in a way that picks up on the historical context – but in a refined and minimalistic way. In the end, we are very happy with the results."

AURUBIS

Photos courtesy of Equator Stockholm Architects

Sustainability agenda

T he Nordic Copper alloy cladding also adds to the building’s LEED Platinumcertified sustainability agenda. Nordic Copper architectural products and alloys are manufactured using 100% recycled raw material, and copper’s ability to be recycled repeatedly – without any loss in performance – is an important sustainability benefit.

C opper is a natural element within the earth’s crust that has been incorporated into living organisms throughout the evolutionary process. It requires no decoration, maintenance or cleaning, saving resources, cleaning chemicals and cost, and its lifespan can be regarded conservatively as 200 years, subject to substrate and structure.

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.

C opper alloys include Nordic Bronze, Nordic Brass and the innovative Nordic Royal – an alloy of copper with aluminium and zinc, giving it a rich golden through colour and making it very stable. A wide choice of Nordic Decor mechanicallyapplied surface treatments is also available for various surfaces and alloys, particularly suited to interior applications.

Safety and sustainability

C opper and its alloys enjoy unique characteristics, particularly in terms of safety, sustainability and longterm performance. With an ‘A1 (noncombustible 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 online ‘copper stories’ exemplify the best in contemporary architecture and showcase the diversity of surfaces, forms and applications available with Nordic Copper today. For more information, please visit the below website.

“We decided to use Nordic Brass Weathered cladding designed in a way that picks up on the historical context – but in a refined and minimalistic way. In the end, we are very happy with the results.”

– Lead Architect, Louise von Bahr

WOOD OIL COLOURS INSPIRED BY NATURE

Colour has a huge impact on how we feel, act and react to moments in life. There are even several psychological studies on how colours can evoke different moods, which can profoundly affect our happiness, productivity and more. Today, the experts at Osmo UK have utilised this knowledge to carefully select a brand-new colour palette for its new wood oil product launch.

Co nsciously or unconsciously, we are all inspired by our natural surroundings, which allow us to create exciting new natural and manmade things. Interestingly, the history of the first colour used in art dates to 75,000 years ago when red, from ochre, was used for caveman drawings. Nature provides us with ever-changing beauty, from the waves of the sea and the wilderness of roaring rivers to the elegant flicker of a flame and the vast purity of the sky. This inspiration can be categorised into four groups, often known as the four elements of nature: air, earth, fire and water.

W hile already offering a large range of bold colours and wood-related hues for its current product range, Osmo UK decided to deeply observe the elements of nature for its new exterior wood finish, Country Shades. In doing so, the team has now created a brand-new collection of 120 bespoke colours, aptly named Elements, that are grouped by the four elements, reflecting the varying tones we visually experience on earth.

E ach colour has been given a unique description that allows you to connect to the colours on a deeper level, like the Osmo team did when choosing them. Whether you’re attracted to bold, bright and strong colours or more drawn towards calm, neutral and subtle pastel colours, the new Osmo UK collection provides a shade for every colour.

New Country Shades

O smo Country Shades is the new wood finish to join the exterior product range. It not only boasts 120 new colours inspired by nature but is also a high-performance wood finish offering excellent durability in all weather conditions, while protecting the wood surface from harmful and damaging UV rays.

O ften, outdoor wooden projects are on a larger scale compared to interior applications. That’s why Country Shades has excellent coverage, too, offering up to 26m 2 per litre with just one coat and making it very suitable for a range of applications, such as cladding, fencing, furniture, garden buildings and more. Plus, when signs of wear become visible, this Osmo finish does not require sanding before re-application, which ultimately reduces your maintenance time and increases the longevity of your wood, leaving your beloved project or home looking its best for years to come.

B rowse the new colour collection on the Osmo UK website and pre-order your Elements Colour Card today for an exact match colour representation before purchasing Country Shades. The Osmo team are always on hand with expert advice and wood-related knowledge.

OSMO UK

Opens doors, invisibly

More features, more functionality, more choice

The versatile, efficient UFO NT automatic swing door operator is completely hidden from view – perfect for glass facades, historical or listed buildings, or where maximum transparency at an entrance is demanded.

Yet it still ensures access for all and complies with the Equality Act and Building regulations.

Suitable for internal and external doors, and for retro-fitting, the UFO NT can even be used manually thanks to the Smart swing function – all-in-all an innovative operator, just a shame you can’t see it.

More information: info.uk@geze.com www.geze.co.uk

BROKEN-PLAN LIVING WITH ECLISSE POCKET DOORS

Broken-plan living – a more easily achievable and flexible alternative to openplan living – is the solution to the post-pandemic new normal of having to split your home between your personal and professional life. By incorporating ECLISSE sliding pocket doors into your house, you can easily compartmentalise your life and hide your office away from the rest of your home.

Where a traditional hinged door would otherwise limit access into a room as well as take up useable space, sliding pocket doors offer a flexible solution that allows for a seamless interior flow and unimpeded access for those that need it whilst also offering the option of segmentation by closing off access to rooms, such as an office, for enhanced privacy, or hiding rooms such as utility rooms entirely, as needed.

The functional yet creative design of single pocket doors makes them an excellent choice for smaller rooms, such as en-suite bathrooms, or loft conversions, whereas double and telescopic pocket door systems are perfect when opened up to create larger spaces for parties but can be closed for more intimate events. Pocket doors offer more convenient connections between rooms, such as the dining room and the kitchen, or bedrooms and ensuite bathrooms.

Put simply, pocket doors provide homeowners with the option to divide spaces when needed, or to fully open up spaces when required, to give the feeling of open plan.

SENIOR CREATES A CLASSIC AT THE YMCA

Senior Architectural Systems, one of the UK’s largest privately-owned aluminium fenestration solution manufacturers, has delivered the glazing package for the new YMCA Community and Activity Village in Newark, Nottinghamshire.

Th e project saw Senior work alongside Rayner Davies Architects and main contractor R G Carter Construction to design and provide suitable aluminium doors, windows and curtain wall solutions, which were fabricated and installed by Acorn Aluminium.

C lose collaboration and early engagement within the supply chain were key to the successful delivery of this multi-purpose building, which is the first of its kind to be constructed in the UK. The innovative community and activity centre provides a mix of facilities from sports and hospitality to training and childcare.

The striking main entrance of the building has been created using Senior’s SF52 aluminium curtain wall system, which incorporates SPW501 thermally-broken doors complete with automatic swing operators. A key feature of the north elevation entrance is the extra-large PURe commercial door measuring 2920 x 3045mm. Across the remaining elevations, Senior’s curtain wall system has been further complemented by the incorporation of SPW600e aluminium windows, specified as both insert vents and fixed light windows. Senior’s versatile SPW501 commercial doors have also been used throughout and, on the west elevation, Senior’s patented PURe SLIDE aluminium doors provide additional access.

The landmark building spans ranges in height from two to three storeys and comprises some 59,000ft2 of useable space. The core services available have been separated into three distinct zones – hospitality, education and activity. The first area includes a cafe and function room, with educational facilities available, including classrooms and teaching areas for both adults and children. The activity zone features a gym and multi-purpose activity space, as well as the climbing hall. This includes a 15m Olympic-standard climbing wall that rises to the full height of the three-storey building and is the largest of its kind in the UK.

SENIOR ARCHITECTURAL SYSTEMS

SPECIFYING WITH CONFIDENCE TO MEET NEW HOMEOWNER PRIORITIES

It has been a turbulent time for the UK housing market, with political and economic instability pushing mortgage rates up to a 7.2% high at the end of 2022. After years of skyrocketing house prices and record-low interest rates, the market is now in a period of fluctuation, writes

Ben Brocklesby, Director at Origin. ORIGIN

Until the dust settles, homeowners will be cautious. Soaring mortgage rates are making them reassess their priorities for buying a new home and re-evaluate renovation plans. As a result, developers may struggle to sell plots on projects already underway, while architects involved in projects still in the planning stages will need to design homes with the most consumer appeal.

Homeowners want properties that offer them the most value, support their lifestyle and protect against the rising cost of living – they want long-term reassurance and reliability. It is, therefore, imperative that homes are designed with this in mind, while architects and specifiers need to be confident that the systems they choose will support changing homeowner demands.

Broken-plan living

A quarter of people in the UK now work remotely, while socialising at home has become increasingly popular as families try to save money. Rather than open-plan layouts, they now want separate areas of the home for work and family life.

C losed-plan living, or ‘broken-plan’, is making a comeback as homeowners want different areas of the home to live, work and play. However, they don’t want to compromise on the amount of natural light they have come to love with open-plan living concepts. The Origin OI-30 Internal Door and Screen system is the perfect way to divide the home into functional rooms while retaining the flow of natural light. Available in over 150 RAL colours, it is made completely bespoke with the option to add as many vertical or horizontal glazing bars as you wish.

Improved energy performance

A steep increase in energy prices, plus the upcoming introduction of the Future Homes Standard, has propelled thermal performance to the top of buyers’ priority list. Housebuilders will look to architects to recommend the best-performing glazing systems that don’t compromise functionality and style. At Origin, our inhouse R&D team is constantly updating the design of the Origin Home Range to achieve the highest level of energy performance.

Small upgrades with big impact

W hilst housebuilders seek advice from architects on home layouts, homeowners want to know what smaller upgrades they can make to their homes that will add impact and value. Something as simple as upgrading the front door can make a dramatic difference to kerb appeal, whilst replacing French doors with a set of bi-folding doors or sliding doors improves functionality and adds value to a home.

W ith so much uncertainty around the UK housing market, developers are looking for assurance that products specified by architects will have homeowner appeal and stand the test of time, whilst homeowners want to know upgrades will add value. Origin products are built to last and come with an industry-leading guarantee of up to 20 years, so they can be confident when specifying our glazing systems in homes for the future.

commercial.origin-global.com

CHEERS! CRITTALL BOOSTS BREWERY TRANSFORMATION

Described as Dorchester’s most iconic building, the Brewery – once the source of the much-quaffed Eldridge Pope ales – has been transformed into a high-end residential setting, with Crittall windows playing a central role in retaining the heritage aesthetic of this historic structure.

For nearly a century and a half, the building, with its tall chimney, towered above the Dorset town as a symbol of local industry and prosperity. Designed by Architect WR Crickmay, the brick building was completed in 1880. At a staggering 13%, the brewery’s Thomas Hardy Ale once featured in the Guinness Book of Records as the strongest commercially-brewed beer in the country.

T he brewery eventually closed in 2003, and the site remained unused until, in 2007, planning permission was granted for a new public square overlooked by the impressive building, restored to its former glory containing 29 one-, twoand three-bedroom apartments.

L MA Architecture of Bournemouth has retained many of the unique features of the original building, including riveted steel beams, cast-iron columns and exposed brickwork. Crittall Corporate W20 steel windows and doors were a natural choice, glazed in small panes to replicate the original configuration of the tall brewery windows.

GEZE UK PUBLISHES

LATEST PRODUCT GUIDE

Architects, architectural ironmongers and specifiers will be able to choose the right product for the job thanks to the updated product guide and price list from GEZE UK.

The detailed, illustrated guide is divided into five product sections – overhead door closers, floor-mounted door closers, fittings for toughened glass doors, sliding door systems and window technology – and a

comprehensive index to ensure specifiers can quickly find all the information they need.

N ew for 2023 is the F 1200+, a window drive for large and heavy, turn-and-tilt, bottomhung windows. Also included are GEZE’s

popular closers, which are now available in a matt black finish.

With detailed product information to help specifiers and architectural ironmongers select the most effective product for their needs, this technical guide replaces the contents of GEZE UK’s existing stylish binder and is available electronically or as a hard copy.

It includes technical drawings, application descriptions and finishes, as well as glass preparation information and technical information on a wide variety of solutions for toughened glass.

A ndy Howland, Sales Director of GEZE UK, said: “We are constantly developing new technology, launching new products and, of course, adapting existing ones in order to comply with new legislation.

“ With this in mind, we publish our comprehensive product guide and price list each year so that specifiers have all the information they could need in an easy-to-use format. We can send a hard copy in the post or email an electronic version, so now’s the time to get in touch.”

PASSIVENT’S SOUNDSCOOP – THE SOUND CHOICE FOR NATURAL VENTILATION

Balancing effective natural ventilation with reduced noise pollution poses specifiers with a challenge, but leading product manufacturer Passivent has the perfect solution in the form of its patented SoundScoop acoustic air transfer unit.

Pa ssivent’s SoundScoop offers superior natural ventilation whilst simultaneously reducing sound transfer between noisy and noisesensitive areas thanks to its patented internal lining and ribbed design. It has been designed in association with Arup in a collaborative approach to acoustic design, natural ventilation performance and product development.

T he innovative design of the SoundScoop system allows air to pass through freely whilst sound waves are reflected and absorbed by the unit’s lining. The system targets mid-frequency sounds, such as speech and footfall, helping eliminate noisy distractions and providing greater privacy.

T he combination of low airflow resistance with high-performing acoustic attenuation provides greater crossflow ventilation between internal spaces of buildings, allowing more schemes to

adopt a natural ventilation system without the worry of excessive noise travelling from room to room. The SoundScoop system is particularly suited for education, residential and hotel projects, as well as commercial environments that are adjacent to noisy spaces, such as cellular offices, as it can reduce speech noise levels by up to 50%.

S oundScoop has been tested for acoustic performance and complies with BB93 (Acoustic Design of Schools –a design guide), Priority Schools Output Specification for Acoustic Design, BS8233 (Sound Insulation and Noise reduction for Building Code of Practice) and Building Regulations Part F (Ventilation). The system boasts a lightweight design, with units ranging from 3 to 18.3kg for ease of both installation and transportation. With a variety of different sizes available, it is ideally suited to a range of different applications.

HAMWORTHY HEATING INTRODUCES NEW TYNEHAM HEAT PUMP TECHNOLOGY

GILBERTS BLACKPOOL

In the drive towards reduced net zero, Gilberts Blackpool claims its new MFS-HR surpasses the performance of anything comparable on the market for commercial and public sector applications.

Building on Gilberts’ pioneering MFS hybrid ventilation unit – the first of its kind to be developed in the UK – the combined hybrid unit can achieve up to 75% heat recovery. The exceptional and market-leading heat recovery performance means that, when employed as part of a sustainable strategy, including photovoltaic arrays, MFS-HR could achieve negativeenergy status. As with the original MFS and other alternative hybrid ventilation systems, MFS-HR is a standalone unit installed through the facade to ventilate, cool and warm the interior. Initial tests indicate each MFS-HR will provide up to 4kw heating and 2kw cooling capacity whilst still delivering an airflow rate of up to 470l/s. It could cost as little as £10/ annum/zone to operate.

01253 766911

www.gilbertsblackpool.com

info@gilbertsblackpool.co.uk

HAMWORTHY HEATING

Hamworthy Heating, a trusted British manufacturer and supplier of commercial heating and hot water products, is set to celebrate the future of heating with the launch of its first-ever monobloc air-source heat pump range, the Tyneham, designed to meet UK efficiency requirements in commercial applications. In line with the latest uplift of Building Regulations ‘Conservation of fuel and power: Approved Document L’, which state that non-domestic buildings should be moving to low-carbon heat sources, the launch of the new Tyneham Heat Pump range plays a key role in decarbonisation. Heat pumps are simple and efficient appliances that extract heat energy from the environment and upgrade it to heat for central heating and hot water requirements. By taking ‘free energy’ from the air via a refrigerant cycle, they generate heat without releasing any carbon emissions. Furthermore, with fewer moving parts to go wrong, they have a long life expectancy with reduced service and maintenance costs.

www.hamworthy-heating.com

01202 662552 sales@hamworthy-heating.com

“NOTHING BETTER” CLAIMS FOR NEW VENTILATION WITH HEAT RECOVERY UNIT

THE REALITY OF HEATING OUR HOMES IN THE FUTURE

On the heating front, things have never been more interesting in the UK heating industry. Renewables are becoming more important by the day. The decision to ban the use of fossil-fuel heating systems in new-build homes from 2025 was the first serious change that made us all sit up and take notice. The possibility of fossil-fuelled heating being banned even in replacement heating systems from 2035 seems likely, if not earlier, says Peter Spurway, National Sales Manager, Heating Projects at LG Electronics. LG

It seems hugely sensible that in the circumstances we move towards a proven technology that uses renewable energy and which is already being installed extensively in mainland Europe, Scandinavia and in Canada. Heat pumps use latent heat from the air or the ground or from water – available in huge quantities and won’t run out.

B ut at least we have workable and practical products to install. Air-to-water heat pump (AWHP) systems –monoblocs or splits – present a variety of proven energysaving options for a home’s heating and hot water system.

The terms ‘split’ and ‘monobloc’ refer to how the system is required to be set up in a home. A monobloc is a bit like a combi boiler and is literally a ‘single-block’ system, where the heat pump has all of its components – apart from the hot water cylinder, which is installed inside the property –located inside a heat pump unit situated outside the home.

A split heat pump unit has both an outside unit, which incorporates the heat exchanger and refrigerant and an internal unit, which sits inside the property, usually in a utility or boiler room.

Most homes in the UK are ideal for a monobloc air-towater heat pump. A split system is an option generally for more complex installations, and it can be installed up to 30m away from the home, which gives far more installation flexibility.

T hese ASHP systems don’t produce water as hot as a traditional boiler will, as they generally only reach around 50°C at a maximum. But

partner.lge.com/uk

unlike the hot water produced by boilers, they don’t need anything like as much cold water added to cool down the hot water for safe bathing and showering. And, of course, many washing machines and dishwashers now operate effectively using colder water supplies. Air-source heat pumps are perfectly suited to new-build and existing homes that are well insulated. To be at their most effective, they operate well with either larger capacity – possibly K3 design – radiators or a higher number of radiators and or underfloor heating.

A COP of 3 can be relatively easily achieved by an AWHP and 4 or above is possible for very well-designed systems. It’s possible to achieve a COP of around 4.5 from an LG Therma V system. We know that when heat pumps underperform below these levels, it is often the result of poor design, installation and maintenance. Heat pump technology is tried and tested and proven. Combined with other renewable technologies, such as solar, the genuine opportunities to switch from fossil-fuelled homes to renewable-driven systems are becoming a reality.

Scan here to learn more

uk.aircon@lge.com

SMART INNOVATIONS IN FOCUS AT FUTUREBUILD

Smart Architectural Aluminium will display a wide range of new products and systems at this year’s Futurebuild exhibition. With innovative solutions across its three core product areas, visitors will have a chance to see both completely new products and product evolutions in each of the company’s Internal, External and Outdoor Living collections.

The impressive 170m2 stand will also feature displays of many of the company’s established systems, including the proven Alitherm Heritage windows and doors, Visofold Heritage slide/fold doors, Designer Doors and Smart Wall framing systems.

I nnovative new additions to Smart’s External collection will feature prominently on the stand, including the all-new Signature Door range, a double Designer Door option, two new Visoglide patio doors, an opening vent for the Aliver rooflight and additions to the Alitherm 400 window and door system. The Signature Door range brings a completely new collection of entrance and back doors to sit alongside the company’s Designer Door range, opening up an even broader audience for these high-quality, high-security doors. The Visoglide slide/fold door additions include a new bonded system, which will provide enhanced security and extremely slim profiles, as well as a highly energy-efficient option that benefits from low U-values.

Smart’s AluSpace system will be the focus of the Internal collection display, which will showcase the system’s ability to elegantly divide or delineate interior spaces while retaining a light and airy environment.

Finally, the display of the company’s expanding Outdoor Living range will feature previews of the new aluminium SolDeck decking and SolUmbra pergola systems.

BURG-WÄCHTER OFFERS CUTTINGEDGE HOME SMART LOCKING SYSTEM

BURG-WÄCHTER

Burg-Wächter is offering the ultimate in convenience with its secuENTRY 5000 Home system, a smart door lock that provides the convenience of keyless freedom for homes and peace of mind for homeowners. The secuENTRY 5000 Home system is the convenient and smart way to unlock front doors. Users no longer have to worry about losing their keys or fiddling around searching for them when they have their hands full – they can simply use their smartphones to unlock their doors. Fully battery operated, the secuENTRY 5000 Home system is quick and easy to set up and is a direct replacement for standard Euro cylinder locks, meaning it can be fitted to most doors that have this lock. The system can also be self-installed by the user; all they need is the electronic locking cylinder and the free secuENTRY KeyApp on their phones. Users can also opt for a keypad that will allow them to programme a six-digit code of their choosing through the KeyApp.

uk.burg.biz 01274 395333

ukcs@burg.biz

SOPREMA, AN EXPERT IN WATERPROOFING AND INSULATION

SOPREMA

SOPREMA is firmly established as a global leader in waterproofing and insulation, offering high-quality products and technical expertise. With system solutions for flat roofs, functional roofs, such as green and blue roofs, balconies and terraces, as well as systems to work with photovoltaic panels through its portfolio of waterproofing products, including bituminous, liquid, single ply and hot melt. In addition, the company provides a range of insulation solutions from XPS, PIR and recycled cotton insulation through to its high-performance natural wood fibre Pavatex insulation, as well as a range of acoustic soundproofing products. The SOPREMA technical team provide a range of calculations, CAD support and onsite surveys, and its products are backed by a range of warranty schemes and BBA certification. With over 100 years’ experience in all construction areas, more than 9200 employees globally and 81 manufacturing facilities, SOPREMA is on hand to assist from design through to installation.

0330 058 0668

www.soprema.co.uk

techsupport@soprema.co.uk

NEW TO THE MARKET FROM YEOMAN RAINGUARD –ALUMINIUM COPING AND CILLS

Yeoman Rainguard, already renowned for its quality range of rainwater systems, has launched new Aluminium coping and cill products for the commercial construction market.

Th e Squareline flat Aluminium coping system protects wall tops and parapets from exposure to the elements and water ingress. The sleek, clean-line design of the coping gives a pleasing aesthetic finish. Fixed using a clip-over method, it conceals mechanical fixings, which importantly provides a tight, waterproof finish.

Formed from aluminium, the maintenance-free coping is a durable and long-lasting option assisting in extending the lifecycles of buildings and offering cost savings in repair and maintenance.

A luminium is a naturally fire-resistant material with a high melting point, heat transfer and reflective properties, which results in the reduction of heat impact on a building structure.

Yeoman Rainguard will manufacture the Squareline coping to clients’ required sizes for the perfect fit and installation. It can also be supplied in any desired colour, be that a match to a RAL, BS, Farrow & Ball, Little Greene, or any other colour reference, giving the unique ability to match or contrast with fenestration and masonry finishes.

T he new Aluminium cills again afford protection from the elements to wood and stone external cills. Designed with the same clean, sleek lines, they, too, have the option of colour matching to fenestration and rainwater systems.

A s with all of Yeoman Rainguard ranges, full technical support, including installation instructions and guides, are accessible by calling the office or going to the Rainguard website. An installation service is available from Yeoman Rainguard, using approved installers, providing an accurate and quick fixing process.

For further information on Yeoman Rainguard’s new products, visit the below website.

AQUALISA EXTENDS MIAN MIXER SHOWER SERIES DESIGNED FOR HOUSEBUILDER AND HOSPITALITY SECTORS

AQUALISA

Aqualisa has expanded its premium Mian shower collection with the introduction of six new models designed specifically for the housebuilder, contract and hospitality sectors. With a choice of contemporary square or round styling, plus single-outlet, dual-outlet and bath shower mixer options, each model features a high-quality chrome finish, brass body and metal handles with cool touch surface technology and a temperature override for added safety. The Mian range is engineered to exceptional standards, is fully compliant with Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) quality criteria, and is backed by the Aqualisa five-year guarantee on registration.

www.aqualisa.co.uk

01959 560010 enquiries@aqualisa.co.uk

20 YEARS OF REACHING NEW HEIGHTS PREMIER LOFT LADDERS

Premier Loft Ladders is celebrating its 20th anniversary of supplying the highest quality loft ladders. Over the years, Premier Loft Ladders has continued to offer the very best technical and design advice to both the architectural and construction industry, as well as private homeowners. Furthermore, its product range has steadily evolved to support changing industry trends and needs. This is best demonstrated by its expanding range of highly-insulated and Passive House-certified loft ladders that help to support a more sustainable future. Contact Premier Loft Ladders to find out more and discuss your project.

www.premierloftladders.co.uk

COLLABORATION IS KEY SIDEY

01394 214413 sales@premierloftladders.co.uk

The Scottish Government has published its draft Energy Strategy and Just Transition Plan. This includes a route map of ambitions and actions that, coupled with detailed sectoral plans and the forthcoming Climate Change Plan, will guide decision making and policy support over this decade. With this in mind and a focus on increasing energy efficiency within properties, net-zero targets and an acute awareness of the need to get specifications right, Sidey has a dedicated team in place that can certify compliance with the current regulations while ensuring the correct specifications are used through effective collaboration with the client. Sidey windows and doors can achieve low U-values that will meet current requirements.

www.sidey.co.uk

01738 634803

info@sidey.co.uk

BRADITE FLOOR-IT ON THE MENU

Bradite’s versatile, high-performance floor coating, Floor-It, rose to a number of challenges encountered by Norwich-based JB Decorating Services on bars and restaurant projects across the country.

Fl oor-It is a low-odour acrylic paint suited to mediumtraffic areas. It provides an extremely durable surface, which is mark, stain and petrol resistant. Its quickdrying abilities – touch dry in just 30 minutes and recoatable after an hour – mean it is highly recommended for business or commercial use, where speed of completion is a major consideration.

“ We were after a floor paint that was quick drying and hardwearing,” said Jake Bygrave from JB Decorating Services. His regular supplier, Brewers’ South Norwich branch, recommended the Floor-It product.

“ I was very impressed with it. The application was fantastic,” says Jake, who decorated the floors of three bars in London, Plymouth and York, each with different substrates.

O ne floor was a non-porous concrete floor and another had been previously painted. As a versatile floor paint suitable for a range of internal or external surfaces, Floor-It was the ideal topcoat for a smooth, durable finish. The third premises had a floor newly fitted with plyboard, and here Bradite One Can was used as a strengthening primer.

M aking use of the range of products available from Bradite has ensured a first-rate finish for three demanding jobs. Jake’s verdict? “Brilliant!”

F. BALL CUTS WAITING TIMES AT ROYAL DERBY HOSPITAL

F. BALL AND CO.

MALMO ADDS EIGHT PRESSED BEVEL DESIGNS TO ITS RIGID SENSES LVT COLLECTION

MALMO

Malmo has added eight stylish new pressed bevel plank designs to its Rigid Senses luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring range. Suitable for a wide variety of applications, including kitchens and bathrooms, the planks feature an eased bevelled edge that enhances the appearance of the flooring to be even closer to real wood than ever while offering the practical benefits of increased water resistance and enhanced cleanability. With the new designs, the bevelled edge of the flooring is formed by pressing down the surface layer into the joint during the manufacturing process rather than cutting through it like painted bevel alternatives.

www.malmoflooring.com

08457 298298 info@malmoflooring.com

F. Ball and Co.’s Stopgap 1500 AquaPro has been used alongside the company’s Styccobond F46 pressuresensitive vinyl adhesive to provide a time-saving solution for installing floorcoverings in Derbyshire’s largest hospital. The floors in the ward required refurbishing as the old floorcoverings had become worn. Requiring a time-saving solution, contractors opted to use F. Ball’s Stopgap 1500 AquaPro water-mix smoothing underlayment, avoiding the need to remove old adhesive residues. A bespoke two-tone design, resembling a river running through the children’s ward with ‘islands’ of colour either side, was created by cutting shapes from two different colours of Polyflor Classic Mystique PUR vinyl sheet flooring, with the pieces adhered using F. Ball’s Styccobond F46 pressure-sensitive adhesive.

www.f-ball.co.uk

01538 361633

TOP-PERFORMING CABERMDF

PRO AND PRO MR FROM WEST FRASER

WEST FRASER

mail@f-ball.co.uk

Both CaberMDF Pro and CaberMDF Pro MR from timber product specialist, West Fraser, are premium-grade medium-density fibreboards developed for interior joinery. Their uniform consistency offers all the benefits of timber but without natural defects. Due to their construction and smooth surfaces, CaberMDF Pro and Pro MR are ideal for use where intricate detailing is required; plus, the boards are ideally suited to machining and surface finishing, as well as being able to accept high-quality paint finishes. Both are easy to saw, drill and rout cleanly without chipping or splintering. Therefore, elaborate detailing is possible, while for the most artistic of interior designers, developers or builders, the boards will even accept foils and ornate veneers.

uk.westfraser.com

01786 812921

IDEAL HEATING LAUNCHES HEAT PUMP RANGE FOR COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS

IDEAL HEATING

Leading heating appliance manufacturer, Ideal Heating, has launched a new range of monobloc air-source heat pumps to help improve energy efficiency and reduce reliance on natural gas within commercial buildings. Available in six outputs and seven models (14kW, 14kW [single phase], 18, 26, 32, 50 and 70kW), the ECOMOD range provides a minimum A++ Energy-related Products (ErP) efficiency rating and high co-efficient of performance (COP) rating of up to 4.85. R32 refrigerant ensures a low global warming potential (GWP). The heat pumps also include an inverter-controlled compressor that can control the building temperature based on specific requirements of the space, further enhancing the efficiency of a building.

www.idealcommercialboilers.com/products/ecomod

VENT-AXIA’S MARKET-LEADING DMEV SHORTLISTED AT ENERGY SAVING AWARDS

VENT-AXIA

Vent-Axia is delighted to announce that it was shortlisted in the inaugural Energy Saving Awards 2022. The VentAxia Lo-Carbon NBR dMEV C has been named a finalist in the ‘Domestic Ventilation Product of Year’ Award category. This follows shortlistings for this highlyefficient de-centralised mechanical extract ventilation (dMEV) unit in both the H&V Awards and the HVR Awards, consolidating Vent-Axia’s market-leading position as the company takes another step towards offering more sustainable choices for customers. The Lo-Carbon NBR dMEV C is a highly-efficient dMEV unit designed for kitchen, utility and bathroom applications.

www.vent-axia.com 0344

GILBERTS DELIVERS “FANTASTIC” PERFORMANCE FOR VIRGIN’S UK FIRST GILBERTS

ADVANCED’S EVACGO OFFERS IDEAL SOLUTION TO MEET PART B OF BUILDING REGULATIONS

ADVANCED

Now that amended Part B (Fire Safety) of the Building Regulations has come into effect, Advanced is offering the ideal solution with its compliant evacuation alert system, EvacGo. To comply with the amended Part B, an evacuation alert system should be provided in accordance with BS 8629 Code of Practice for the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of evacuation alert systems for use by fire and rescue services in England. Advanced’s EvacGo evacuation alert system offers peace of mind as it was designed alongside fire industry leaders specifically to meet the recommendations of BS 8629. EvacGo has been developed to support any evacuation strategy chosen by the fire and rescue service and operates completely independently of fire detection systems.

uk.advancedco.com

0345 894 7000 evacgo@advancedco.com

M-AR FACTORY PURCHASE SETS COURSE FOR THE FUTURE

M-AR

M-AR has completed the purchase of its existing manufacturing facility in Hull, further strengthening its position and ensuring it can keep pace with current demand as well as preparing for future growth in the offsite construction sector. M-AR, which describes itself as a “contractor with a factory”, is currently embarking on a significant programme of growth underpinned by continuous re-investment into the business, including purchasing new equipment, hiring more staff and undertaking innovative training programmes. The recent purchase of its dedicated 100,000ft2 manufacturing facility, which is valued at £3m and can produce around 400 modules per year, is a key part of this plan.

Gilberts has risen to the challenge of delivering indoor air quality to a constantlyevolving brief for a high-profile luxury hotel. The new Virgin Hotel in Edinburgh is the first in the UK for the brand and has overcome a complex array of challenges in its construction over the past four years. The £65m, 222-bedroom venue sits in the heart of the ancient city – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Three listed buildings have been merged into a cohesive whole with the addition of new-build elements and a suspended glass link bridge. The team of ICA Studios (architect), Thomas Johnstone (main contractor) and Emtec (building services) worked closely with the supply chain. Emtec turned to Gilberts to supply the ventilation grilles and diffusers to ensure the supply and return of air from the variable refrigerant flow (VRF) system to the hotel. A stand-out element has been Gilberts’ GHV double deflection grilles, specially produced in a bronze finish to sit within 200-year-old wood-panelled walls. Gilberts provided a raft of different powder-coated finishes to the diverse LG linear bar grilles in the bedrooms. The DG4 louvre-faced diffusers, GSF swirl diffusers and GSLS linear slot diffusers utilised to supply the correct ambient conditions throughout the hotel were similarly specified in various colours to reflect the aesthetics required for each area.

www.gilbertsblackpool.com

01253 766911

info@gilbertsblackpool.co.uk

COMPLETE CREATIVE FREEDOM

AWARD-WINNING DOOR COLLECTION

O ering a huge range of configurations, endless colour options and stunning hardware choices, with the Origin Door Collection, you’re guaranteed to be able to o er a solution for every property. Manufactured from premium aluminium, it meets and exceeds all building regulations and comes with an industryleading warranty of up to 20-years.

Bi-fold Doors Glazing Bars

Corner Bi-fold Door

French Doors

Single Doors