Architects Choice

THE UK’S LEADING MAGAZINE FOR ARCHITECTURAL PRODUCTS, TECHNOLOGY AND TRENDS

ArchitectsChoice £3.75

OCTOBER 2009

TERMITE OR NOT TERMITE Our panelists discuss going back to nature

ARCHITECT SPOTLIGHT Dickon Hayward talks art and architecture

GETTING TO GRIPS WITH THE FUTURE Addagrip takes hold in our Q&A

PLUS: PRODUCT NEWS DOORS AND WINDOWS BUILDING MATERIALS

Cover Photo: Windowmaster features on page 12

October 2009 I recently attended 100% Design and as always was impressed by the level of expertise and quality of products on show at Earls Court.

Exhibitors, whether an art graduate or an experienced professional, had pulled out all the stops on their stands to showcase the very best in design. Although predominantly interiors, 100% is a really interesting show to visit because of the way in which architecture is used and acts as inspiration to many of the designers. Whether it is cleverly crafted pieces of furniture that utilize more industrial materials or unique sculptures that make a stance for design, artists at the show had gone to great lengths to give distinction and definition to their pieces. Granite had been etched into for a beautiful finish, polystyrene teacups made quite an impression as they were scattered

EDITORIAL: Editor: Jade Tilley jade.tilley@onecoms.co.uk PRODUCTION: Graphic Designer: Kerri Cuthbert kerri.cuthbert@onecoms.co.uk

about the capital in a bid to illuminate ‘Britishness’ and some of the lighting displays were truly spectacular, manipulating light to become more than just functional. After a flurry of meetings, I walked away from the show inspired and excited about the next few issues of Architects Choice. In the following issues leading up to the end of the year, we will feature some stunning and sustainable signage solutions and will be featuring some of our top companies in a Top Ten spotlight.

Back to this issue and we are focusing on Addagrip and their quest as a company. See page 17 for an insight into the company’s philosophy and their plans for the future.

There is much going on in the industry of late; with pages of news from practices and professionals; new building materials products and a look at interior design specifically in the kitchen. Enthusiasm for

THIS MONTH 4 An architecture news update - all the latest developments by some of our most respected designers

INDUSTRY NEWS 6

A look at what’s going on in the sector

SALES: Account Manager: Mark Hickey mark.hickeyl@onecoms.co.uk Account Executive: Karen Hill karen.hill@onecoms.co.uk Account Manager: Vicky Ellis vicky.ellis@onecoms.co.uk Sales Manager: Donna Jenkins donna@onecoms.co.uk

ADMINISTRATION: Accounts: Carole Todd carole.todd@onecoms.co.uk Reception: Joanne Cluer jo@onecoms.co.uk Data controller: Rebecca Hubbard

design has not wavered as the year draws in with new design trends emerging and the all-essential heating and ventilation products for the season coming into prominence.

Our regular panelist Dickon Hayward features twice in this months’ issue of Architects Choice.

Question Time poses the question of bringing our built environment back to nature, with Philip Richards also debating the qualities of the termite pavilion.

Dickon is then put under the spotlight in our ‘Architects profile’ seat (page 15), giving his opinion on art, architecture and his favoured buildings.

Jade Tilley, Editor

15 INTERVIEW

Archietcts Choice puts panelist Dickon Hayward under the spotlight

16 BUILDING MATERIALS Essentials in contruction (continues on page 18)

17 ADDAGRIP Q&A 19 PREMIER LOFT LADDERS Company feature

QUESTION TIME 10 DOORS AND WINDOWS 12

Published by onecoms, a trading division of Media One Communications Ltd. Geneva House, Park Road, Peterborough, PE1 2UX. Telephone 01733 756555. www.onecoms.co.uk Copyright 2009, all rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced in any way without written permission from the publisher. All views and opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher.

20 PRODUCT NEWS Top products for the month

27 WEB GUIDE

An architectural guide to the world wide web

Architects Choice 3

industry news

Heradesign panels for the Golden Arches

with a fine fibrous structure, and can easily be matched to the respective décor, with five different colour choices specified for the suspended ceilings.

McDonald’s has specified wood-wool ceiling panels from Heradesign as part of a new modern and stylish design concept for its restaurants, created by leading French architect, Philippe Avanzi. Heradesign’s lightweight wood-wool ceiling panels are constructed from natural raw materials: wood and magnesite. The design concepts across the restaurants all rely on high quality materials in order to create a pleasant atmosphere and encourage customers to linger. Good acoustics are key to creating such an ambience, and the excellent acoustic properties of Heradesign’s decorative ceiling panels support the decision to include them as a specified product in some of the new designs.

Heradesign® superfine wood-wool panels have excellent acoustic properties which will play a key role in creating a pleasant ambience in the refurbished restaurants and McCafés. They also have a unique surface appearance

For further information visit www.heradesign.co.uk

Caught out

acclaimed ‘Best Builder’s Bum 2009’ award. “The builder’s bum is an iconic symbol of Britain hard at work,” says Kelly Sallows, founder of ejobdone.co.uk. “We thought it was high time we started celebrating it in all its glory.” Consumers can post a job for free on ejobdone.co.uk and then tradespeople and suppliers can bid to do the work.

“We’ve already had loads of people texting in photos of plumbers, roofers, mechanics all with ample bottom cleavage,” says Sallows. “There are hairy bums, smooth bums, big bums, small bums and spotty bums. However, we’ve had a real lack of sexy bums being sent in. All the girls here in the office would like to see some more yum bums.”

Builders around the country are the butt of the joke with a new online competition. A job-matching website is offering cheeky passers-by the chance to win cash by texting in photos of builder’s bums in their area. Each week, one bum-snapper will be awarded £20 and then at the end of October, every exposed builder gets a crack at receiving the

For further information visit www.ejobdone.co.uk

Cantifix finalised CANTIFIX, the structural glazing specialists who achieved 16 per cent growth in 2008, reached the finals of the National Business Awards Regional Programme (made up of nine categories), in the category of small to medium size business - open to companies with a t/o of under £10m. More than sixty organisations were shortlisted in the South of England heat, with CANTIFIX as one of the eight finalists in their category. Finalists made their presentations in person before an independent expert judging panel, and the winner was unveiled at a gala dinner and awards ceremony 14th July. Commenting on the National Business Awards, sponsor Orange UK’s Vice President of Business Paul Toliet said: “This year’s finalists clearly demonstrated the resilience, adaptability and success needed to drive the economy forward.” “Entrants have shown both the resilience and optimism that are the hallmarks of UK enterprise.” CANTIFIX chairman, Charlie Sharman said “Being a finalist in our category recognises the efforts of all the CANTIFIX team”.

For further information telephone 0845 302 0606 visit www.cantifix.com

SPECIFICATIONS FOR WAITROSE EXTENSION Sandtoft's Romulus clay roof tile has proved the ideal solution for an extension to a Waitrose food shop located in the heart of a conservation area in Welwyn Garden City. The large format, roman profile tile has been specified to meet strict planning requirements and blend seamlessly with the original building and local vernacular. Tom Mayhew, project manager at RG Carter Projects, which managed the development, said: "The existing roof and properties in the surrounding area

4 Architects Choice

featured traditional double roman clay tiles and Sandtoft's Romulus tile in Natural Red proved to be the closest match to the original. The shape and dimensions of the Romulus were within millimetres of the existing roman roof tiles and the colour was also ideal. As a result, it was the only tile that the planning officer was willing to approve for this extension.”

For further information telephone 0844 9395 900 or email info@sandtoft.co.uk.

An in-spired project The task to upgrade the church spire at All Hallows Church, Cheadle was a relatively unique project and one in which Sika-Trocal licensed contractor Sanderoof had to use a little lateral or even vertical thinking! The main part of the brief was to re-roof the church spire in a long lasting and proven material and to match it to the existing white church cross.

Sika-Trocal Type S 2mm membrane was used on the project in a specially ordered white colour along with the matching SE profile which was welded on to the membrane. The result has delighted Sanderoof, the main contractor DJ Hughes and even the congregation.

Sika-Trocal’s area technical manager Shay Casey was on hand throughout the project and at its completion to issue the final guarantee.

Given the relatively unique nature of the job, the Sika-Trocal disc fitting system proved to be a particular advantage on site, allowing for a speedy and effective fixing of the membrane to the plywood base.

For further information telephone 01707 394444 or email sika-trocal@uk.sika.com.

Alternatively, for further information on Sanderoof, visit www.sanderoof.com

industry news

Combating solar heat gain Levolux has helped cut carbon emissions at Morrisons’ latest store in Granton, Edinburgh, whilst keeping its customers cool throughout the year.

Levolux installed its fabricated aluminium Brise Soleil and Aerofoil Fins to help combat solar heat gain within the complex. While summer temperatures soar, the Levolux solar shading system works effectively to help maintain a naturally cool environment for shoppers without the need for expen-

sive, energy sapping air conditioning. Levolux installed 400mm wide long span Aerofoil Fins around the car parking area, free spanning up to eight metres between concrete columns. The same 400mm wide Aerofoil Fins were also installed at high level along a parapet and around the main entrance, integrating with the curtain walling. As an extension of the Levolux Solar Shading system, students at Telford College also benefit from cool, comfortable accommodation, with 200mm Aerofoil Fins installed vertically across three panels of glazing of the student accommodation areas.

For further information www.levolux.com.

4D cinema experience Architectural practice Kay Elliott, as Architect and Lead Consultant, has designed a spectacular pre-show and 4D cinema exhibition space for The Merlin Entertainments London Eye (London Eye), as part of a £17.5m upgrade programme for the attraction. The challenge set

by Merlin senior management to the London Eye team was to find ways to enhance the visitor experience as the attraction approaches its 10th anniversary year. Working closely with both the London Eye and Merlin Studios team, Kay Elliott helped identify a semi-redundant back-of-house store and office space inside County Hall and adjacent to the previous ticket hall, which could be opened to the public to house a pre-show. The contemporary cinema sits comfortably within the existing rotunda building echoing its shape and, with the tiers sharply falling away, a dramatic space is formed.

Working with a leading edge 4D film team from Centre Screen Productions it also employs some of the most sophisticated 4D sensory effects equipment anywhere in the world. The four minute bespoke pre-show film itself shows not only a virtual flight over the capital using unique aerial footage, but also puts visitors in the centre of exciting London Eye events including the capital’s amazing New Year’s Eve fireworks.

For further information telephone 01803 213 553, email admin@kayelliott.co.uk or visit www.kayelliott.co.uk

EPIC calls for refurbishment support Industry body EPIC believes that the refurbishment of existing buildings is essential if the UK is to hit its target of a 34 per cent reduction in CO2 by 2020, but although help is on hand for the domestic market there is still nothing in place to encourage the upgrade of non-domestic industrial and commercial building stock, and EPIC believes that this urgently needs to be addressed. “The refurbishment of nondomestic buildings would have a significant positive impact on reducing carbon emissions, whilst also bringing savings in operational costs, yet it has so far been given no serious consideration. Recently published research from independent consultants Caleb Management Services has highlighted the extent of this missed opportunity. The research examines how refurbishing existing non-domestic building stock by 2022 to an EPC/DEC “C” rating is likely to have a

Catching the eye A major extension to St David’s shopping centre in Cardiff has included the use of iColor Flex SLX LED luminaires from Philips Lighting in an illuminated wall running the length of the escalators linking the refurbished centre with the new St David’s 2 development to the South. The architects for the retail area are Benoy and the lighting is designed by Building Design Partnership (BDP).

Architainment worked closely with the design team in building mock-up panels to determine

short payback period of less than five years, after which time the refurbishment would have paid for itself and would begin to save money on bills. A potential total energy cost saving has been projected of over £40 billion between 2010 and 2022, with a correspondingly significant carbon saving.”

For further information telephone 0208 786 3619 or visit www.epic.uk.com

the optimum resolution and, subsequently, creating a full-scale mock up on site. The company then continued to liaise with all parties, issuing installation schematics and assisting with the commissioning and programming of the luminaires. In total, 135 iColor Flex SLX luminaires have been installed behind an opaque glass screen on the escalator. Each luminaire comprises 50 tri-colour RGB, individually addressable LED nodes spaced 100mm apart, providing a high level of flexibility.

For further information telephone 0845 601 1283 or email lighting.uk@philips.com

Architects Choice 5

industry news Meeting tough sustainability demands

achieve maximum Eco points in the Code for Sustainable Homes.

Janex has completed a major contract with award winning regeneration company Urban Splash on their visually striking Chips project in Manchester.

Designed by renowned architect Will Alsop, Chips forms part of New Islington and includes 142 apartments and a mix of commercial space at ground floor level. Janex products’ ability to meet the tough demands for sustainability with first class thermal performance throughout the project and to fit as well as supply, won the firm this prestigious contract. Dramatic black alu-clad windows, sliding patio doors, fixed lights and French doors above ground level contrast with the unusual external cladding in shades of timber with flashes of colour and featuring large, bold text.

Timber doors to the ground level commercial units were all finished internally in black to match the alu-clad windows. Janex products help developers

For further information visit www.janex.co.uk

Reclaiming wood benefits

desirable locations, but also offers a large number of environmental and eco friendly features. Victorian Woodworks selected Reclaimed Antique Georgian Oak, renowned for strength and stability for the extensive First, Second and Third Floor areas. For the Ground Floor Guest Suite, long, wide original face Antique Pitch Pine Boards were chosen. The origin of the timber and the elements that the wood was exposed to during its life, results in a unique variation of colour tone, grain structure and character. The staircase treads and risers were produced in Jarrah, which is a hard wearing, richly coloured, dark brown timber. For the Roof Garden decking, Green Heart wood was selected as it requires no treatment, making it a very ‘green solution’. For the exterior walls of the 62m2 Roof Garden, Barrel Oak cladding was selected.

A 551m2 period warehouse, located in fashionable Primrose Hill features Victorian Woodworks stunning reclaimed timber flooring in the interior. The architects’ vision was to design a sustainable home that not only offered contemporary living in one of London’s most

For further information telephone 020 8534 1000, or visit www.victorianwoodworks.co.uk

High and dry at the summit S & P Coil Products Limited (SPC) have supplied heating equipment to the new visitors centre, Hafod Eryri, at the top of Mount Snowdon. The new building designed by architect Ray Hole, is made from local granite obtained from the Cwt y Bugail Quarry near Blaenau Ffestiniog, which forms the walls and floors of the new building. With the wet and windy conditions associated with the mountain’s summit, where Winds can reach 150mph and the annual rainfall is more than 5m, designers of the heating system had to ensure the windows would be free from condensation.

MINIB T50 trench heaters, the smallest (in depth) trench heater in the world, also have a stainless steel trough as standard and were selected as the ideal solution to keep the panoramic views visible to visitors all year round. AIRDOR Elite Air Curtains were also used to help maintain the conditions within the summit café. The air curtains also provide visitors with a

quick ‘burst of warm air’ as they walk into the visitors centre, relief from the harsh outside conditions.

For further information telephone 0116 249 0044 or visit www.spcoils.co.uk

ANABAS MOVES FORWARD Anabas has secured a major new multi million pound deal to provide a turnkey solution for leading European specialty pharmaceutical company Norgine’s new corporate offices. Anabas secured the win for a full relocation for the company’s 180 staff.

The contract will also entail all design, space planning, fit-out & relocation. Norgine is currently based in one commercial park over two sites across a total of 27,500sqft. The move will see Anabas manage the process of re-housing the company under one roof,

6 Architects Choice

in a freshly created office space spanning 47,500sqft in Harefield, Uxbridge. The move for Norgine is a long term strategic solution for its future expansion, with the investment enabling the business to reduce its overhead costs and manage its continual growth. The design implemented by Anabas will provide flexibility to meet the growing needs of the business and an intelligent working environment for its people.

For further information visit www.anabas.co.uk

Full house for Kingspan A stylish multimillion-pound residential development in Middlesbrough benefits from a building envelope provided entirely by Kingspan Insulated Panels. The first of several new apartment blocks to be built at the Douglas House site, contains forty flats and features Kingspan KS1000 ZIP Kingzip Standing Seam, Kingspan Thermabrick and Kingspan Thermatile Complete Wall and Façade Systems. Kingspan Thermatile and Kingspan Thermabrick offer a ceramic tile and a mortarless brick finish respectively and are part of the Complete Wall & Façade Systems. All Complete Wall and Façade products provide the proven performance benefits of composite panel construction and can be easily integrated with each other to offer a wide range of different visual options. They all use Kingspan architectural wall panel’s which act as a carrier for the system. The panels have an A+ rating in the BRE Green Guide to Specification.

Kingspan Insulated Panels have recently won a ROSPA Gold Award for Safety for the second year running, recognising well developed occupational health and safety management systems and culture, outstanding control of risk and very low levels of error, harm and loss.

For further information telephone 01352 717251, email info@kingspanpanels.com or visit www.kingspancompletesystems.com

industry news

Birley celebrates a job well done

ten weeks – and managed to meet opening date deadlines for all stores.

For further information telephone 0114 280 3200 or visit www.birleyml.com

Birley Manufacturing has successfully completed a £600,000 project for Waitrose as part of the supermarket chain’s acquisition and conversion programme, “Project Troy”. The programme forms part of Waitrose’s ambitious expansion strategy, whereby the supermarket chain plans to double its estate. Project Troy was one phase of this plan, and involved the acquisition and conversion of fifteen disused sites, mostly old Somerfield locations.

Birley is a preferred supplier to the supermarket chain, and was heavily involved in “Project Troy”, supplying stainless steel back wall counters for deli stations, partners dining areas and cigarette and confectionary kiosks to the newly converted stores.

At one point, Birley completed eight stores in just

Reliable flat and green knowledge Throughout the construction industry clients, specifiers, main contractors and specialist contractors need to be more aware of the environmental performance of products in specifications, design, on-site applica-

tion and operational life. With this in mind SikaTrocal has just added a comprehensive new environmental section to their website at www.sika.co.uk.

The Sika Group has made a huge commitment to the environment and the company’s Sika-Trocal single ply membranes are recyclable, have low embodied energy and score a low Ecopoint rating. With fast efficient installation by trained contractors, Sika-Trocal membranes clearly contribute to a long lasting and sustainable roof. To help all those involved in the specification and installation of Sika-Trocal products, the company has added an environmental category in the roofing section of its internet site, covering the key topics of: durability; recycling; embodied energy; light weight; solar reflectivity; air leakage; BRE ecopoints; the Green Guide to Specification and BREEAM. The new environmental section of the Sika internet site clearly demonstrates the ability of the Sika-Trocal concept to meet environmental demands through the use of independent data.

Kingspan helps new HQ set sail Two products from Kingspan Insulated Panels have provided a sleek modern look for the new headquarters of an international shipping firm, Carisbrooke Shipping located on the Isle of Wight. Design and build contractors Reid Steel specified Kingspan insulated panels for the job. The two products used on the building were Kingspan KS1000 MR Micro-Rib and Kingspan Thermatile.

Whilst the main body of the building was clad in White and Terracotta KS1000 MR, Kingspan Thermatile was used to good effect on a corner section of the building, highlighting the easy integration and design flexibility offered by these two systems. A slate colour was selected for this section to provide contrast and give the building a striking contemporary look. Alongside visual impact, both products provide excellent thermal performance. For example, KS1000 MR can provide U-values as low as 0.15 W/m²K and air tightness of 5m³/hr/m² or better.

For further information telephone 01352 717251 or email info@kingspanpanels.com

For further information telephone 01707 39 44 44 or visit www.sika.co.uk/roofing

Belfast’s crowning glory 10,000 sq m of Rigidal Systems Ziplok standing seam system, in a weathered copper finish, have been used to provide the finishing touch to the roof and walls of Belfast’s new Victoria Square shopping centre – Northern Ireland’s largest ever property development.

In addition, 3,000 sq m of the Ziplok incorporates a sedum green roof which will make a significant contribution to the environment around the whole centre and help reduce the carbon footprint by removing pollutants from the atmosphere, increasing oxygen levels and reducing carbon dioxide levels. The dazzling glass dome with its viewing platform looks out over the gently curving standing seam roofs topped with the sedum green roof, allowing the expected 70 million visitors a year to the centre a perfect view of the roofscape, installed for Rigidal Systems by Thornton Roofing. Ziplok is a BBA

Soaring high with Kingfisher Lighting Wrexham County Borough Council recently invited Kingfisher Lighting to provide a practical and dynamic lighting solution for the £100m development of Eagles Meadow, which would blend sympathetically with the architectural design principles of the mixed-use retail, leisure and residential development. Kingfisher Lighting proposed a detailed lighting scheme to effectively light the redeveloped road network leading to Eagles Meadow and the adjacent car park. Against relevant standards associated with

approved, advanced zip-up standing seam system that offers exceptional weather resistance and durability.

For further information telephone 01905 750 500.

a town centre, the area was classified as a CE2 Conflict area subject to mixed vehicle and pedestrian use requiring a horizontal illuminance of 20 Lux. Wrexham County Borough Council selected the Logika range.

Logika effortlessly combines design and performance presenting a versatile solution for lighting the urban environment. The simplicity of the luminaire shape and its clean lines defines a contemporary design enhanced by a co-ordinated range of columns and brackets to either blend with the environment.

Installed by Wrexham County Borough Council with the aid of grant funding from Welsh Assembly Government

For further information telephone 01623 415 900.

Architects Choice 7

industry news

Manifesto for Educational Landscapes The central government Department for Children, Schools and families has set a clear vision: ‘To make this the best place in the World for children and young people to grow up’ and in the past 10 years the UK has seen huge developments and spending within governmental policy which will transform education and its settings both inside outside the classroom. Marshalls has launched its Manifesto for Education in response to the growing needs of the education sector for expertise, guidance and sustainable products to create stimulating and creative outdoor learning areas. Marshalls understand what makes good design within an educational landscape and has supplied over 1,860 schools within the last three years alone with products including hard landscaping, street furniture and water management solutions across the UK. Along with the Manifesto, Marshalls is launching a number of support materials and online guidance to assist in design and product specification aimed specifically at those involved in the planning, design, specification and construction of outdoor areas around schools, colleges and

universities. This will include Marshalls Educational Landscapes book, which is the most comprehensive guide to date for creating better educational landscapes. The book brings together thoughts and suggestions from leading landscape architects on the design of outdoor learning areas and provides a wide range of products to choose from to extend learning opportunities beyond the classroom.

Marshalls Manifesto for Education: To use our knowledge and experience to provide the education sector with the tools and integrated products they need to transform their landscapes To provide easily accessible information, resources and guidance to create a stimulating outdoor environment To provide materials that will help with pupil and community consultation and engagement To continue to support local community based projects to help build a sense of community and provide opportunity for increased learning To lead our industry in providing educational landscapes with sustainable solutions which consider all social, economic and environmental factors For further information telephone 0845 302 0606.

ABBE expands market leading research team

Trendsetting hydraulics The stage for U2’s 360 degree tour has been constructed using Enerpac Synchronous Lift System.

The Belgian company Stageco has constructed three gigantic, identical stages for the current U2 360 Tour. What makes this project special, is that high-pressure hydraulics are being used for the first time ever to assemble and dismantle the 230 ton construction - also known as the claw.

Together with Enerpac, Stageco has developed a unique system, based on Enerpac Synchronous Lift System, to raise the modular construction to a height of 30 metres quickly and safely. Stageco was contacted for the construction of the stage.

Since there is only a relatively short time between performances and a total of seven to eight days are needed to assemble and dismantle the stage construction, three whole stages have been constructed, which are used following the leap frogging principle: one is used for the show, whilst the second is already being built at the next location and the third is being dismantled at the previous location. One of the construction requirements was that the stage could be built and taken down again in a relatively short time. The challenge for Stageco was therefore how to assemble and dis-

8 Architects Choice

The Awarding Body for the Built Environment (ABBE) has expanded its research team with the appointment of a new research and development officer. Hayley Yarnell joins the organisation on a permanent basis, having worked at ABBE for the past year supporting the delivery of its market leading qualifications. ABBE is a specialist awarding body, developing vocational qualifications for the construction, property and energy assessment sectors. Its qualifications are delivered by a network of assessment centres across the UK, and include qualifications to enable candidates to produce Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs),

including those needed for Home Information Packs (HIPs). It is the number one awarding body for energy assessment qualifications and has built a reputation for developing diplomas, which are responsive to the needs of industry and employers, working closely with government and sector skills councils. Hayley will have responsibility for researching the viability of new awards, including examining changes in legislation and preparing business cases for investment.

mantle the massive 230 ton construction each time. Logistics naturally also needed to be considered and a solution had to be found for the installation of the technics (light and sound) and the special 60 ton video screen that also had to be

raised and lowered each time.

For further information telephone 0121 331 5174 or visit www.abbeqa.co.uk

For further information telephone +31 318 535911 or email irene.kremer@enerpac.com

industry news

Brighton's Grand Hotel chooses Dorgard Brighton's luxurious De Vere Grand Hotel, an iconic landmark that dominates Brighton seafront, has chosen to install Dorgards throughout the hotel, allowing fire doors to be held open, automatically closing should the fire alarm sound. With large numbers of guests, delegates and staff moving about the building, easy access through doorways without compromising fire safety is of major concern. Dorgard is the wireless solution that offers the simplest, most cost-effective way of legally holding open fire doors safely in any position, automatically releasing them should the fire alarm sound. Dorgard also offers significant cost advantages as it can be fitted in minutes, with no wiring required. With over 300,000 Dorgards installed across the UK, the Dorgard range is the solution to the illegally wedged open fire door problem,

Reflected brilliance Barry Parkes, Sales Manager for Stainless Equipment Company, considers the choices available to specifiers when considering finishes for metal. “Metal polishing is very much a craft in the manner of stone masonry or cabinet making, based on skills shown by time served tradesmen who can tackle any task.

in any environment. Dorgard complies fully with all relevant British Standards and EU Directives.

For further information telephone 0845 241 7474, e-mail sales@firecoltd.com or visit www.firecoltd.com

Mirror finish stainless steel is far harder wearing than chrome plated mild steel and does not suffer the problems and inconsistencies that result from nickel inclusions that can mar the plating. Balustrades, handrails, water features and also pieces of sculpture are amongst the subjects brought to metal polishers for this highly specialised treatment. One further area where the metal polishers can deploy their skills – not directly connected with fashions past or present – is in relation to the Disability Discrimination Act. Most people recognise that contrasting colours make features of the built environment, such as doorways and balustrading stand out from their background, but in fact polishing can have the same effect. Whatever the project there are ways in which the art of the metal polisher can assist the design team and bring reflected credit on all involved.”

Net2 at Seashell Trust The Seashell Trust works with students with an increasingly complex range of communication and physical difficulties. The Trust operates a school at Cheadle Hulme in Cheshire, which caters for these students.

Net2, from Paxton Access, now controls access on 31 doors around the site. Four hundred and fifty staff and some of the more able students have been issued with access tokens. The external doors on the college and the school are all controlled using Paxton Access Long range readers, which allow access tokens to be read from some distance away. Automatic door openers have been fitted. Wheelchair users and staff find this a great help when entering the building. They have the hands free fobs fixed to the wheelchairs and when they approach, the system reads the fob and unlocks the door.

For further information telephone 01273 811011 or visit www.paxton.co.uk

For further information telephone 01992 450729 or e-mail enquiries@stainlesssteelpolishers.co.uk.

Addressing warehouse safety Safety barrier manufacturer, A Safe is encouraging the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to legislate increased safety standards for pedestrian and vehicle segregation across the manufacturing industry.

Currently, the law states that road and pedestrian walkways should be demarcated, but this can be interpreted widely from physical barrier systems to a simple line painted on the factory floor. A Safe are industry leaders in providing pedestrian and vehicle barrier systems using their patented and highly visible plastic systems which are tough, durable and can withstand impacts from factory vehicles of up to 304KN. All barriers have been certified BS6180 and BS6399. Traditional steel barriers have always been synonymous with strength, however A Safe’s systems have advanced technology, design and manufacturing

Iron Team cuts energy costs InBev UK, owners of Stella Artois, Becks and Budweiser, have undertaken a major overhaul of lighting at its 55 acre brewery, canning and packaging plant in Magor, South Wales with eco2save light fittings and lamps supplied by Ironteam Energy Solutions. Energy savings of 55 per cent are being achieved as a result of Ironteam’s latest generation, eco2save induction technology to meet the energy and maintenance reduction targets set by InBev UK. The new eco2save induction technology has also provided a major

processes, using alternative materials with equivalent physical strength but offering significant advantages and benefits. Each system has been manufactured from special high-impact coloured polymer and provides high-impact absorption with little or no damage so maintenance and long term upkeep costs are minimal, if non-existent.

For further information telephone 01422 344 402 or visit www.asafe.co.uk

improvement in colour definition, which, in turn, has enhanced the working environment. Ironteam worked in close co-operation with electrical contractors, SF Electrical of Cardiff, project engineering, design & management company, Lorien Engineering and electrical wholesalers, Newey & Eyre of Newport on this high profile project. Ironteam has recently published new literature for their eco2save lighting product range.

For further information telephone 0115 906 1266, email info@ironteam.co.uk or visit www.ironteamenergysolutions.co.uk.

Architects Choice 9

question time

uestiontime

This month’s question: Can nature translate seamlessly into the built environment?

The Termite Pavillion is a large architectural structure that has been designed around the idea of insect habitats.

Built at the Southbank Centre in London, the structure is part of the ‘Pestival’ celebrating insects in art.

Art, as they say transcends so many forms of life and nature is no exception. Many of our structures are inspired by nature and the natural world, but usually these structures are limited to the realms of artistic structures such as the Termite Pavillion.

Marks Barfield architects also conceived the idea of the tree-top walk in Kew Gardens that no doubt was inspired by some former creation of nature. Its is simple- the most natural things inspire us to create bigger, more concrete forms of what nature creates and what we can manipulate.

Can nature translate on a bigger scale into the built environment?

What ideas can we take from the way in which natural materials form of their own accord and, is their a gap in the architectural market for more natural forms of building, not just in their use of eco credentials but in terms of design.

10 Architects Choice

PHILIP RICHARDS PROJECT LEADER AT WOODS BAGOT

Nature can be translated into the bigger scale only if the natural principles are understood and fully implemented.

Nature is a complex balanced system and if one single element of the matrix is missing, omitted or even added, the whole equilibrium is damaged.

The translation can fall into a number of categories; firstly the termite pavilion is an artistic representation of the shapes and volumes which occur naturally, represented and expressed in timber. The Kew gardens tree top walk is a structural and aesthetic solution which connects and blends in with nature, without harming its sensitive environment.

The other category and the important one, is the under-

illary geometry which allows the external skin to breathe.

Using these factors, combined with the sophisticated structure the termite mound is a prime example of an extremely ‘smart’ building. This is an excellent precedent to follow in terms of an ideal natural solution, which hopefully one day can be translated and put into practice in our built environment. The amazing thing is that this is just one example of so many other natural precedents we can use and implement into our built environment.

The built environment would benefit from the knowledge on how and why the forms are the way they are, and maintaining all the variables to create a balanced structure. Developing and maintaining the equilibrium.

The ideal scenario is if the

“In the case of the termite mound, the important issue is to understand the function of the mound and how it works and why is it the shape it is. ” standing of nature and implementing natures rules into the built environment, following the basic solutions and also the sophisticated solutions. This category contains the natural balance and equilibrium demonstrated in nature.

In the case of the termite mound, the important issue is to understand the function of the mound and how it works and why is it the shape it is.

This is a prime example of a natural structure that is built to ensure a constant internal living environment in which the inhabitants can flourish, regardless of the variable external environment. The mound uses a natural chimney style, passive, ventilation system combined with a complex cap-

built environment has buildings which have implemented the simple and sophisticated lessons learned from nature, such as the termite mound, and also capturing the aesthetic qualities and the respect for the natural environment.

If the built environment has just implemented the aesthetic forms of nature, such as buildings in the shape of a bumble bee, a butterfly or a flower, then that’s a sign that we do not fully understand the true meaning of nature and how nature really works.

There is a reason why the termite mound is the shape it is and why a shell is shell shaped.

DICKON HAYWARD ASSOCIATE AT RICHARD HYWEL EVANS A AND D LTD.

The termite Pavilion is a wonderful wobbly mass of wood. A surprising and delightful sculpture to lose yourself and your thoughts in, memorable and intriguing. Its spatial unpredictability marks it out from the everyday rectilinear vocabulary of the built environment and lets you instead wonder into a fantastical world of organic mystery. This is a space far from the scale and rhythms of the city and it leaves you charmed and perplexed, pondering how such a complex cavern could have grown out of the South Bank’s concrete embankment.

In a way it appears as a real life solid interpretation of the kind of architecture that has been increasingly prevalent in architecture schools since the advent of 3D computer modeling. Indeed, it is computerbased design and manufacturing that allows the creation of these complex forms – such irregularities are extremely time consuming, if not impossible without the benefit of digital technology.

In a strange paradox, therefore, it would seem that technology, after a lifetime of diverting us from the forms of nature is finally reconciling us with the infinitely complex shapes of the organic world.

Ever since humans left the caves we have surrounded ourselves with symmetry, right angles and studied proportion.

Now, with the arrival of the termite pavilion and the technology that created it, there’s an opening to return to the intrinsic primordial forms of a pre-historic age.

The termite pavilion is a direct mimic of nature – its form is a scaled up facsimile of the

interior of a real termite mound. The termites that created it reacted to an infinitely complex wealth of forces that directed their motion and ensured the functionality of the mound. Yes, this is functionalism, but not the brutal and reductive functionalism that leads to so much boring design. This instead is functionalism that actually corresponds to the ever-changing, ever complex reality of animal behavior rather than reducing it to a simple formula.

What if buildings could not just copy a termite mound but

Our industry experts provide a compelling insight into the design issues surrounding today’s architecture

be a human equivalent? That is an organic, ever-evolving interpretation of requisites. An architecture not so much as a rendering of an equivocal brief but instead reacting to the constant shifts, whims and emotions of the human psyche. Buildings that do not stand upright like columns against the chaotic wind of desire, but instead flutter poetically in it, ever shape-shifting to the subtlest breeze.

It seems I’ve drifted far offpiste into the realms of science fiction. Maybe, but have a look at the ‘Bone Wall’ instal-

lation at Storefront for Art and Architecture by Joe Macdonald. This work is designed not with a single human vision but by shifting algorithms reacting to a complex matrix of inputs. The results may not be practical yet, but they’re certainly beautiful and show the possibilities for a radical new approach to design. Radical to humans, that is. Termites have been doing it for years.

Our panel of architects are experts in their field and have experience in a vast area of architectural design including; landscape, public sector and private residencies. If you would like to contribute as a panelist email: jade.tilley@onecoms.co.uk

MEET THE EXPERTS PHILIP RICHARDS

DICKON HAYWARD

PROJECT LEADER AT WOODS BAGOT

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR AT RICHARD HYWEL EVANS A AND D LTD

Philip has been involved in a diverse array of architectural projects including several high profile mixed-use developments. Most recently, Philip was incolved from design through to development of the TFL site in Hammersmith and was joint co-ordinator of the Gateway buildings to the National Stadium, Olympic Way, Wembley. Currently, Phil is working on a Grade II landmark hotel and residential scheme in the City of London.

Dickon studied at Manchester University and the Royal College of Art. He has worked as Project Architect on a wide range of projects from large-scale residential and commercial developments to luxury penthouses, clothing stores and restaurants. Currently, he is mainly working in the hotel and travel sector, building a large marina and hotel development in Grenada.

Architects Choice 11

doors and windows

Windows & zero carbon structures

by Lennart Johnson

Today’s thermally efficient windows are possibly the worst performing product we install in a building structure - they lose valuable heat from the inside of the building. So, on this basis, shouldn’t we be specifying small windows with high efficiency double glazing to minimise heat loss? It is entirely possible to build new structures which make best use of solar gain and renewable energy sources such as wind power, photovoltaic in combination with heat pumps. These buildings can be self sustainable or ‘Zero Carbon’ and in some instances, actually have excess energy left over. So why

Qualicoat - a Global Standard As the Qualicoat standard for architectural powder coating in the UK continues to gain widespread acceptance it is important to remember that the Standard is not just UK based. With offices based in Zurich Qualicoat offer Licences to countries who want to adopt the standards laid down by the association.

Not only does the Zurich based association set a quality label for architectural powder coating, it also sets a standard which crosses boundaries. A project specified in Dubai can be coated in the UK and meet the standard so standards have moved away from being country specific. As an international association Qualicoat is run by its members from all the country associations involved. In order to update and further improve standards the association has currently twelve working groups active each working on a particular aspect of coating standards.

S is for Sustainability

are we not building structures like these now for all our new building requirements?

Reason - most of the decision making it is down to initial high cost - but these high costs are now falling partially due to the current recession. Building Regulation’s are funnelling our design process further to encompass more efficient designs and utilising renewable energies such as solar heating. The UK’s fenestration industry has to look more outward to the changing requirements of the UK’s construction industry. The industry must stop trying to place one material, or combination of materials, as better than another and tackle the real issue of the correct use of glazing in structures and the benefits that can be achieved. www.senioraluminium.co.uk

For further information telephone 0121 601 6746 or visit www.qualicoat.net.

For further information telephone 01453 828851 or visit www.c-a-b.org.uk

RAINHAM HEALTH CENTRE

12 Architects Choice

Southampton City College is currently part way through a full redevelopment of its St Mary's Street campus. As part of a total investment in the project of £43.2 million.

WindowMaster is supplying natural ventilation control systems for various buildings around the campus. WindowMaster was selected because it was able to provide a model for an innovative and cost effective natural ventilation solution that worked according to the consultants’ brief. WindowMaster was chosen to provide the full NV Advance™ window automation system because of its ability to provide a complete installation, in particular the central computer control system. The installation includes window actuators, various sensors and a weather station. The weather station monitors external conditions around the building, including wind direction and speed, temperature and rain fall. Changes in wind pressure on the facades are also modelled. WindowMaster’s NV Advance™ window automation system is the only system in Europe that intelligently monitors windows to prevent entrapment as an integrated function of the motor and control system. It can provide almost failsafe security against the possibility of injury while windows are closing.

For further information visit www.windowmaster.co.uk

Since aluminium was first produced in commercial quantities in the 1880’s it is estimated that over 700 million tonnes of aluminium have been produced worldwide. 75 per cent of this production is still in active use today. 31 per cent of all aluminium is used in construction.

Bauxite, the raw material from which aluminium derives, is still being mined and smelted into new aluminium to meet world demand. The aluminium extraction and refining companies have reduced their energy requirements by almost 70 per cent since 1900. They are using a growing percentage, now 50 per cent, of hydro-electric energy which is not only an established renewable energy source but also helps to reduce carbon emissions. Today just over 35 per cent of all aluminium produced comes from recycled material. It takes only five per cent of the initial energy to recycle aluminium, which is almost 100 per cent recyclable without loss of quality.

Comar Architectural Aluminium Systems, with their approved fabricator PAGE Group Limited, supplied the Comar 6 curtain walling and Comar 7 doors for a new build Health Centre in Rainham, Essex. To create light and give a striking glazed front façade, Comar 6 ladder frame curtain walling was installed. Comar 6 offers a slim 50mm sight line with a multitude of transoms and mullions to cater for all deflection loads and configurations. For the entrances, Comar 7 swing doors were selected. Comar 7 commercial door sets

Natural ventilation

are available in swing, pivot, sliding, auto-sliding and sliding folding and have been designed specifically for commercial applications where high traffic solutions are required. AXIM concealed overhead closers with a 900 hold open facility and anti finger-trap stiles were fitted and provided easy disabled access.

For further information telephone 0208 685 9685, email projects@parksidegrp.co.uk or visit www.comar-alu.co.uk

doors and windows AccentHansen launch new glass door products AccentHansen are the steel and glass door manufacturer and installer specialising in providing high performance doors to meet a wide variety of applications and specifications. AccentHansen are proud to introduce AlGlaze™ and ClearGlaze™.

Following hot on the heels of GlazeShield FL™, the glass fire door that was launched in January 2009, AlGlaze and ClearGlaze are glass doors specifically developed for architects who require an aesthetically pleasing finish. AlGlaze combines clas-

sic building architecture with modern technology to fulfill all requirements of imaginative architects and designers who value aesthetics. Available in single, double and tilt/slide variations, AlGlaze is a glass door with extremely thin aluminium profiles. The high g-values and low u-values ensure optimal light transmittance without an increase in temperature.

Perfect for use as an external entrance in both residential and commercial buildings, the door is available in a number of sizes. Mark Mallen, Managing Director, AccentHansen, said “Expanding our glass product portfolio is an important step for us. It means we can now offer our clients a complete so-

lution, from aesthetically pleasing glazed entrances through to steel security doors required for the perimeter of their buildings. Our ability to continually invest as we have done throughout 2009 is testament to the strength and financial stability of the company. Not only have we increased our product portfolio with three new products, but we have increased our staffing in response to the increased demand for our products.”

For further information visit www.accenthansen.co.uk

Elite development chooses composite windows High performance composite windows from the range of Glass Facades have been employed by a private developer to help achieve a stunning design for a pair of detached houses in the capital. Built by Elite Developments to a very high standard of finish and having a higher than normal ratio of fenestration to wall area, the project demanded enhanced performance from the windows themselves. Sealed units exceeding the normal demands of the Building Regulations had to be specified. The 28 mm IG units feature two panes of toughened glass with a low-E coating in position three, Combined with ar-

gon filling, this achieves a centre pane U-value of 1.5 W/m2K; enabling the windows, measuring up to 2100 mm square, to achieve an overall U-value of 1.7 W/m2K. Thus the designer’s aesthetic ambitions for the appearance of the facades, as well as the feeling of space and light indoors could be realised. The European Oak, not available from most window manufacturers, is sustainably sourced and carries PEFC chain of custody.

For further information telephone 0207 561 8749 or visit www.glasfacades.com

Passing the integrity fire test Selectaglaze has developed a product that has successfully passed a 30 minute integrity fire test to BSEN 1364-1: 1997 and BSEN 1363-1: 1999. Working in conjunction with Pilkington, Royal Warrant holder Selectaglaze responded to a need for a secondary glazing system to provide fire protection in vulnerable areas such as windows adjacent to fire escapes. The use of aluminium systems allows design continuity with other windows undergoing treatment. Selectaglaze’s Fire Retardant Series 40 Fixed Light unit incorporates Pilkington’s PyrodurTM glass in conjunction with fire grade mastics and intumescent seals that expand and swell when hot to form a barrier against hot gasses.

The design ensured that the unit successfully passed the rigorous fire test using the largest available piece of PyrodurTM glass at temperatures, which would normally melt the aluminium. Selectaglaze’s “Window Protection Systems” brochure contains comprehensive information on all of the company’s security systems, together with guidance on appropriate levels of protection for various risk situations and details of the test standards and certifying bodies.

For further information telephone 01727 837271 or visit www.selectaglaze.co.uk

Architects Choice 13

Doors and windows

New vision and spandrel glazing panels Thousands of vision and spandrel units were installed by Structura UK Ltd, principal contractor, during the complete replacement of the 30-year-old

glazing to Minerva House, a 1970’s, eight-storey office building. Structura UK, curtain wall engineering specialists, removed all the existing glazing and replaced it with more than 3000 new vision and spandrel units in a variety of shapes and sizes to the existing aluminium, bronze powder-coated frames.

The 40-week, 2-phase contract worth £1.2million was carried out while the building was fully occupied. Each vision panel consists of an inner pane of 6mm clear, toughened glass, a 12mm cavity and a

6mm outer pane of bronze-tinted, toughened glass.

The spandrel panels consist of an inner pane of 6mm ceramic, enamelled, harmony bronze-tinted glass, followed by a 12mm cavity, and an outer pane of 6mm bronze-tinted, toughened glass. The contract included replacing glazing beads where necessary.

For further information telephone 020 8397 436, email mail@structura.co.uk or visit www.structura-uk.com

SCHÜCO secured by design

Cumbrian cottage challenge A traditional cottage set in the dramatic landscape of the Lake District has undergone a spectacular ‘Grand Designs’-inspired refurbishment, with a cutting edge extension using a sophisticated IGG integrated glass system from GEZE UK. Owners of the Cumbrian home are now enjoying spectacular views from the coastal hilltop site, which incorporates the latest in double glazing and GEZE UK’s swing door technology to create a frameless, full height glass screen room which makes the most of the panorama while cocooning inhabitants from the elements. With safety and resilience top priorities, the cottage extension was a real challenge for the contractor Askam Construction, who turned to Structural Glass Solutions Ltd to specify a glass and door system that was easy to use, functional, energy efficient and aesthetically pleasing to meet the vision of the architect.

GEZE UK’s IGG integrated glass system was chosen for its unique fitting system, where the mechanical parts of the outward opening manual swing door

14 Architects Choice

Schüco International has become a ‘Secured by Design’ (SBD) member offering a range of ‘Police Preferred Specification’ windows and doors. This means that relevant Schüco window and door systems meet a number of strict security and performance tests and are therefore suitable for specification by designers who are looking to build in a higher level of security in new homes, public buildings, schools and commercial premises. In the case of windows, this means Schüco systems meet BS 7950, while the company’s door assemblies meet PAS 23 (General Performance Requirements) and PAS 24 (Enhanced Security

Requirements). Schüco qualifying systems include AWS outward-opening windows with frame depths of 50 mm, 60 mm, 65 and 70 mm and opening vent sizes up to 2 m x 2 m. Schüco doors include the ADS HD range with frame depths of 65 mm, 70 mm and 75 mm in inward- and outward-opening single-leaf and double-leaf versions. In both doors and windows, enhanced levels of thermal and sound insulation can be achieved by specifying the larger frame depths.

are just 45mm wide and concealed within its slim frame, creating a sleek glass façade.

For further information telephone 01543 443 000.

For further information telephone 01980 282111 or visit www.schueco.co.uk

architect profile: Dickon Hayward

A Penthouse in Notting Hill

Modular Lighting Showroom at Centre Point, London

Name: Dickon Hayward Education: BA Manchester School of Architecture, MA Royal College of Art, Part 3 Architectural Association Profession: Associate Director A new residential building in Hoxton- Peagso.

Images by Bjarte Ingels.

Dickon Hayward: In The Spotlight Interview with Jade Tilley

D

ickon Hayward is our regular panelist in our monthly feature, Question Time. His thoughtful insights in the the topics that we discuss always provide much conversation and food for thought. It is Dickon’s experience in the industry, as an Associate Director at Richard Hywel Evans A and D Ltd that allows for his architectural intelligence to shine through in every element, whether planning structures on giving his opinion on others.

How long have you worked for Richard Hywel Evans?

Six Years.

What projects are you currently working on?

Resort Developments in Croatia and St Lucia, a residential tower in East london.

What has been your biggest project for the practice?

Pegaso – a mixed use development In London N1.

Which era of art inspires you the most?

And which the least?

The apogee of Gothic in the late Middle Ages.

The last vestiges of eccentric mysticism before the renaissance began to rationalise everything. The least- Surrealism – Self indulgent and puerile. It says nothing to me just because its odd, doesn’t mean it’s clever.

Where, in your opinion, is currently the most developed and best developed country in terms of architecture and innovative design?

Japan – One of the few places where young adventurous architects actually get the opportunity to build.

Can you name a building in particular that you do not like and why?

Any branch of IKEA – they’re all the same. I hate any building that makes me walk round in large circles, trying to lull me into buying kitchen utensils I don’t need.

If you could work with any other architect in a collaboration for one project, who would it be and what would you want to do?

Robert Hooke. We’d build a monumental cathedral to natural philosophy in the heart of London, full of theatres for showing scientific discovery and topped by an enormous observatory.

What are your biggest concerns when looking at the developments in architecture through the recession?

That architects bid so low they’re unable to do their job properly and get sidelined from the process altogether. It’s hard to keep high standards when times are tough, but the profession will suffer in the long term if we don’t. ■

What do you like and dislike about architecture in the UK? I like the enormous amount of talent, debate and discussion here. I dislike that all that talent seems to have to go abroad to build anything decent.

Architects Choice 15

building materials

Limestone contracts Hanson Bath & Portland Stone (B&PS), specialist suppliers of Bath, Cotswold and Portland limestones, has recently secured a number of prestigious new contracts for the use of its Bath and Portland natural stones in both new build and restoration projects. The contracts include two new, large private developments in Wimbledon and Winnington Road in London. “Winning new business such as these is crucial during this challenging economic time. On many projects we work alongside our customers helping to deliver high quality buildings to high specifications and yet still work within today’s current financial pressures,” said Gary Sellick,

Commercial and Projects Manager at Bath & Portland Stone. The company has just completed providing Bath and Portland stone to a development of 120 houses in St Martins, Bath, as well as processing Bath stone sourced from the Westwood mine for exclusive new-build apartments in Bathwick Street, Bath. With its years of experience and specialist masonry works, B&PS is the company of choice for many architects, designers and contractors wishing to benefit from the award winning natural stone and traditional masonry skills.

For further information telephone 0117 986 9631 or email bathandportlandstone@hanson.biz

Supercut construction with quick clamping system FEIN, a manufacturer of professional and extremely reliable power tools for manual trades and industry, presents the new generation of FEIN SuperCut Construction. The powerful system for interior construction and renovation comes with a newly developed transmission featuring the patented QuickIN quick clamping system. It allows accessories to be quickly and conveniently changed or adjusted. The particularly impressive power transmission of the tool holder enables even better work progress than its predecessor. There are five professional sets for the FEIN SuperCut Construction FSC 2.0 Q, each of which includes a specially coordinated range of accessories. The QuickIN gear head of the FEIN SuperCut Construction FSC 2.0 Q enables tool- free accessory changes that are both fast and convenient. The FEIN SuperCut Construction comes in five different professional sets. The accessory sets are specially coordinated to the different applications:

Behind the scenes Attention to the detail of green building technology distinguishes the NU@D2 development in Northampton

by Barratt has so much more than the stylish modern housing it appears to be. While the solar panels on the roof are the most obvious touch, a great deal happens behind the scenes to ensure these comfortable high-tech homes hit the mark when it comes to sustainability. The advanced products and systems include DuPont™ Tyvek® Reflex, the metallised breather membrane that offers proven low-emmissivity against radiant heat loss.

This durable yet lightweight and easy-to-install material offers all the reliability and performance you would expect from the unique DuPont™ Tyvek® technology.

Installed between the timber frame and the external terracotta cladding, DuPont™ Tyvek® Reflex prevents airleakage and moisture ingress, while allowing for vapour diffusion. This material from DuPont also blocks up to 85 per cent of radiant heat in summer, thereby helping to maintain interior comfort levels.

For further information telephone 01275 879 770 or visit www.tyvek.co.uk

FERMACELL RECOMMENDED INSTALLER Family business Red Rose Drylining took a novel approach to becoming a Fermacell recommended installer by building their own premises using the product! In just 12 weeks, the Red Rose team completed their smart two-storey 2,800 sq. ft. offices and a swimming pool complex occupying 3,200 sq. ft at Riverside House in Lower Darwen, Blackburn.

Standard 12.5mm Fermacell board was used internally and externally, whilst 500 sq. metres of 12.5mm Fermacell Powerpanel H2O – developed for wet

16 Architects Choice

room applications – was utilised in the construction of the pool complex. Red Rose Managing Director Mark Holden commented: “Our building was exposed to the elements and heavy downpours of rain for six weeks before rendering took place and there is no way we could have adopted this approach using plasterboard.

The curtain walling was the last material to be fitted.”

For further information visit www.fermacelldrylining.co.uk

• Professional set for interior construction work with wood • Professional set for repairing/replacing windows • Professional set for tile restoration/bathroom renovation • Professional set for heating/sanitary installation • Professional set for grout renewal For further information visit www.fein.com

addagrip

Addastone, a resin bonded gravel surface from Addagrip, has been specified in the redevelopment of Morecambeʼs West End sea front.

Addagripʼs resin bonded aggregate surface Addastone has been used as part of the major restoration of Weston Park, Sheffield.

Addagripʼs resin-bonded surface Addastone has provided a sympathetic hard landscaping solution at the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich.

Getting a grip on the future

By Roger Critchley What is Addagrip’s design philosophy?

Roger Critchley Managing Director Roger joined Addagrip in 1986 as the Office Manger/Buyer.

After three years being involved in most aspects of the internal day-to-day business he was moved into a sales role where he became more focused on customer relationship building and new business generation. In 1998 Roger was promoted to the position of Sales Director and was instrumental in the significant growth of the company. In 2004 Roger was promoted further to the position of Managing Director.

We strive to design innovative contemporary solutions to a myriad of projects. We endeavour to provide a service of excellence and, where possible, create the desired finish to the specification requested. Many strange yet interesting requests have turned out into memorable projects. We aim to give our customers ample information to enable them to make an informed choice. We provide samples, which we believe is a key element to allow the architect, developer or homeowner to see the colour and texture of our product. For major projects we offer an onsite visit and can install an onsite sample area.

What is Addagrip’s history?

Addagrip Surface Treatments Ltd is a resin manufacturing and formulating company. Founded in 1980

by Dick Cottingham, we established ourselves as a leading industrial flooring contractor formulating a range of high quality products to meet industry requirements. In 1986 we ceased contracting in order to concentrate on manufacturing and focus on supplying our products and servicing the needs of our customers. In the mid 90’s we became involved in the development of a hand lay anti-skid high-

way treatment. During this period, and with the experience gained, we decided to produce a coloured resin that could be used as a decorative finish for driveways and patios. This was the start of the Addastone® Resin Bonded surface dressing.

Over the next ten years Addastone® became a very familiar name for both quality and the attention to detail carried out by the network of contractors we had trained up over the years. Continuous developments to improve Addastone® Resin have created, we believe, the market leader and we are very proud to have been involved in some of the country’s leading and prestigious projects from the Tate Modern to the Eden Project. The last five years has seen the addition of Addaset Resin Bound surfacing to complement our resin bonded finishes.

Since the beginning, how have you evolved as a company to work with architects?

Working with architects allows us to produce samples to meet their brief, this can sometimes incorporate a variety of blended aggregates or even the use of coloured quartz aggregates. The importance of specifying our Addacryl Sealer for Addastone® Resin Bonded Surfacing is also a very major part, without the sealer the Addastone®

resin can slowly seep down into the asphalt. This means that insufficient resin remains on the surface to hold the aggregate leading to a potential failure. All part of a steep learning curve! We are constantly looking for new ideas and will shortly be launching the Addagrip EcoPave System that provides a decorative surface with a water retention facility.

What is your biggest architectural project to date?

Addastone® has been used on many major projects but two of my favourites are the Old Greenwich Naval College and Weston Park in Sheffield. Addaset has been widely used in Schools and Universities throughout the UK to surfacing the Old Spitalfield Market in London.

What are your plans for the future?

We plan to intensify product development to improve and push the boundaries further of our systems.

We also plan the implementation of more recycled materials and SUDS based systems. The future is impossible to predict in the current climate but we are working hard on a number of large schemes, which we hope will be forthcoming over the coming years both in the UK and overseas. ■

Architects Choice 17

building materials

Hardware online

For further information telephone 01925 763 836.

Joinery specialists Glyngary have recently launched a new website as another channel to sell their hardware products. Glyngary’s core business is manufacturing high quality sash windows, timber casement windows and doors, however, the Glyngary team have decided to take a step in the online direction. Glyn is the Sales Director and commented on the move, “My Brother Gary saw a gap in the market While there are numerous companies selling hardware, none of these companies actually use the product themselves.

Glyngary are different. All the products on the site are used within the factory on a regular basis. There are no products on the web site which Glyngary have not tried and tested in the factory and would not be happy using on their own windows and doors. Another major difference is that Glyngary are happy to sell the quanityt people need rather than insisting on you purchasing ‘box quantites’.”

Hilti sets a new environmental standard for battery tools

Power tool manufacturer, Hilti has set a new standard for battery tools and put their recycling plan in place ahead of the new Battery Regulations, coming into force in 2010. Hilti is committed to minimising the environmental impact from their business at every stage of the product life cycle. During research and development, Hilti plans for optimal performance, long product life and minimal waste at the end of a products’ life by utilising their close experience with customers to design innovative tool features and solutions, such as Hilti SmartPowerTM, which regulates power to deliver optimal productivity in their cutting and grinding tools.

They use robust, all metal gear housing in cordless screwguns to prolong tool life, which also increases the recyclable content of the tool at the end of its life.

For more information visit www.hilti.co.uk

Safety to boot Dickies, the renowned producer of practical work clothing and footwear introduces a new tough and comfortable safety boot to their range. The Quebec Super Safety Boot S1-P (Code num: FD23375 and FD23376) is said to be perfect for wearing all day and in any condition, including any potentially hazardous work situations. The boot is steel toe-capped and made from a tough, full grain leather, it also meets the EN20345 (2 joules) standard and incorporates a midsole for underfoot protection, with a slip and oil resistant sole and an antistatic, energy absorbent heel.

Further features on the boot include a easy access side zip for quick removal and it comes in a choice of either warm, mock fur or lightweight breathable lining. The boot comes in black only. Dickies have produced the Quebec Super Safety Boot in sizes 6-12.

For further information visit www.dickiesworkwear.com

IQ BUILDING SYSTEM Remmers are proud to launch iQ-Therm to the market. The system is unique for refurbishing buildings from the inside and significantly upgrading the insulation properties whilst remaining fully breathable – with no vapour barrier. Presented as a prize winning innovation at the Munich Bau exhibition, this ‘intelligent’ insulation consists of a breathable rigid polyurethane foam panel, adhered to the structure walls, then rendered and painted with compatible products to offer a solution which

18 Architects Choice

solves condensation, mould and heat loss problems all-in-one! The installed system has an immense capacity to store and transport moisture, which buffers peak moisture loads in the air of the room, regulating the climate. Over the long term, buildings can dry out and make significant energy savings – a dry wall conducts far less heat than a wet one.

For further information visit www.remmers.co.uk.

Sika gets watertight Sika Watertight Concrete was chosen in the construction of the Alan Reece Building, the new home for the Institute for Manufacture, recently commissioned by the University of Cambridge. The new £15 million, 4,500 sq ft building was designed by Arup Associates and built by Keir Marriott. Incorporating the Sika Watertight Concrete system had many benefits including simplified design and time saving on site through the elimination of laborious detailing of tanking membranes. Importantly, it has provided a BS 8102 Grade 4 environment suitable for the storage of valuable archive materials and equipment. The BBA certified Sika Watertight Concrete system incorporates two state-of-the-art powerful Sika admixtures.

These work firstly by reducing the water cement ratio, whilst producing a highly workable concrete to aid placement and compaction, and secondly, by blocking the remaining capillary pores. The system has a successful track record going back 50 years.

For further information telephone 01707 394444 or email concrete@uk.sika.com

Premier loft ladders

Taking the Right Steps to Combat Fire A

lready established as offering a market-leading range of aluminium and wooden access stairways which are the preferred choice of the worldwide architectural and construction industries, UK-based Premier Loft Ladders has enhanced its range of loft ladders with a selection of stairways with fire resistant casings for industrial, commercial and domestic applications.

Announcing this latest development, Tim Wakeley of Premier Loft Ladders said: “We have already achieved our position in the market as the supplier of superbly engineered concertina style aluminium and folding or sliding style wooden loft and ac-

cess ladders that lead the field in design, technology, energy efficiency and quality. Now, we have gone one step further with the addition of fire resistant casings options to four stairways within our popular Classic and Supreme ranges, all of which are manufactured to EN 14975 and fire resistant to DIN 4102 Part 2.”

handrail ready fitted as standard, the ladder is simple and easy to use.

The treads are 360mm wide and 80 mm deep and have a non-slip profile and the hatchbox is constructed from 16 mm thick chipboard. The trapdoor is fire resistant to 30 minutes, insulated and constructed from a fire resistant board to the underside and upper surface, with an insulation infill sandwiched between the two to give an overall thickness of 46 mm. The insulation U value of the trapdoor is 0.8W/m2K and the load bearing per tread is 150 kgs. The trapdoor can be overpainted on site.

The standard dimensions are 1200 mm (long) x 600 mm (wide), 1200 mm x 700mm, 1300 mm x 700 mm and 1400 mm x 700mm.

The floor to underside of the ceiling range is 2220 mm to 2860 mm.

Supreme stairway with steel hatchbox and trapdoor available with two trapdoor options - fire resistant to 30 minutes or 90 minutes A concertina style strong, ready to fit stairway manufactured from high strength die-cast aluminium alloy components. The stairway is attached to a 1.5 mm steel hatchbox, and a trapdoor made from two layers of 1.5 mm steel infilled with 38 mm of mineral wool for the 30 minute and 75 mm for the 90 minute.

There is a 29mm wide lip to the bottom of the lining around the external edge which is designed to butt up against the ceiling to help prevent flame and smoke ingress.

Similarly, a lip to the bottom of the steel trapdoor extends to within 15 mm of the lip on the lining.

The floor to underside of ceiling

height is up to 4300 mm and there’s a minimum opening length requirement of 780 mm, which varies according to the floor to ceiling height, and a minimum width requirement of 595 mm. The load bearing per tread is 200 kgs. CAD drawings for the steel hatchbox F30 and F90 are available on the Premier web site (www.premierloftladders.co.uk).

Supreme stairway with wooden hatchbox and insulated trapdoor F30 A ready to fit unit manufactured to the same high specification as the Supreme models with a steel hatchbox and trapdoor, this stairway is attached to a wooden hatchbox and insulated trapdoor coated with Pyorex, fire resistant to F30.

For all three Supreme stairways, customers can specify their own finished requirements. Generally they are finished 15 mm or 20 mm under the opening length and 15 mm under the opening width to allow an easy fit. Each has a load bearing per tread of 200 kgs.

For further information contact: Premier Loft Ladders 2 Dawson Drive Trimley St Mary Felixstowe IP11 0YW Telephone: 0845 9000 195 Fax: 01394 214413 Email: sales@premierloftladders.co.uk Website: www.premierloftladders.co.uk

Clsssic Twinsafe F30 stairway Available either as a 3 part folding or 2 part sliding wooden ladder, the Classic Twinsafe F30 stairway, made from specially selected kiln dried pine, is a ready to fit unit fitted to a counter-balance sprung wooden trapdoor when not in use. With a

Architects Choice 19

product news Heavy duty access covers Leading access hatch manufacturer Surespan has launched a new range of heavy duty access hatches which are designed to take loadings of up to 16 tonnes.

The aluminium alloy hatches can take loadings ranging from 5 to 19 tonnes (FACTA class B to E) and are available in the following standard single and double leaf sizes (or any combination of these sizes): Single 600 x 750 x 900 x 1000 x

600 750 900 1000

Double leaf 600 x 1200 750 x 1500 900 x 1800 1000 x 2000

They are gas spring operated, making them easy to open, and come with a range of locking options, including Surespan’s unique locking box.

Surespan design and manufactures a wide range of other access hatches to suit all types of internal and external applications, which are available with various loading capabilities and can be custom made to suit your needs.

For further information visit www.surespancovers.com, telephone 01922 711185 or email: sales@surespancovers.com

Daring and dynamic furniture A daring and dynamic range of garden furniture that looks and feels like fabric, but with all the advantages of resin has been introduced into the garden furniture market. Outrage! is an exciting and versatile concept for the outside that would look perfectly at home inside. Made from an innovative textile, Outrage! means those who want to enjoy stylish living in their gardens or on their balconies no longer need worry about the effects of weather on their furniture. Outrage! is soft to the touch, looks simply stunning and keeps those good looks year in, year out. The advantages of the new fabric include: All weather resistance; no mould growing; no fading in bright sunlight; strong and long lasting material; water permeability and very easy to clean; comfortable and soft seating and beautiful design appearance.

For further information telephone +31 (0)73 684 05 01 or visit www.outrage-furniture.com

Secure heating panels S & P Coil Products Limited (SPC) have developed a revolutionary new addition to their ThermaTile Plus Radiant Heating Panel Range.

The Leicester-based heating experts have developed a dual-purpose anti-ligature and plasterboard radiant ceiling panel for installation into secure locations such as hospitals, prisons, police stations or any other development requiring a secure heating solution. The new innovative design

20 Architects Choice

allows the ThermaTile Plus Radiant Panel to float within the anti-ligature/plasterboard frame allowing for expansion and contraction during heat up and cool down periods. Once the ThermaTile Plus panel is connected to the soffit using extended gripple wire, the panel complete with anti-ligature/plasterboard frame is then connected to the pipe work using ‘extended life tested’ threaded connectors and then fixed to the plasterboard ceiling using standard screws or anti-tamper proof screws for a secure and robust fix to the preformed wooden plasterboard batons. The ThermaTile Plus Anti-Ligature Radiant Panels are both easy to fit and easy to maintain, giving all the well known features of SPC’s ThermaTile Plus Radiant Panels with the added security provided by the anti-ligature option.

For further information telephone 0116 249 0044 or visit www.spcoils.co.uk

product news

Nobel fire protects

C-TEC catalogue now available

Nobel Fire Systems design and supply fire suppression systems for industries across the UK and around the world. The company is also ‘approved’ by leading insurers. In May 2009, Nobel was commissioned by Victoria Carpets to supply and install a fire suppression system that would provide the critical protection required for its IT room. The room which is 26m3 was fitted with an air-sampling smoke detection system to give very early warning fire detection for the active hardware equipment in the IT room and Nobel recommended a FM200 gas fire suppression system to provide a very high level of protection. Nobel Fire Systems provided the design and installation of the FM200 System to meet the specific demands of Victoria Carpets, taking into consideration the effect on the immediate environment, type of fire risk, physical constraints, building structure and location, practicality and economic considerations.

For further information telephone 01706 625 777 or visit www.nobel-fire-systems.com

New Kalwall DVD’s

Supplementing conventional technical and project brochures, three new online dvds about the Kalwall daylighting system have been produced by Stoakes Systems Ltd. The dvds are in response to demand from potential clients, facility owners and architects for succinct, easily accessible information which will explain Kalwall and demonstrate its performance in practice on different types of project. The three dvds are entitled Kalwall for Schools, Kalwall for Swimming Pools and Kalwall for Sports Halls.

These applications are particularly relevant because the translucent daylighting cladding and roofing system is being installed in so many new schools and associated facilities designed for the Government’s BSF programme. Kalwall is unique because it distributes diffused daylighting evenly and floods interiors with ‘museum-quality’ light.

C-TEC is a leading UK independent manufacturer of quality life safety electronic equipment with a portfolio of products that includes fire alarm control panels, voice alarm systems,disabled refuge systems, nursecall systems and audio-frequency induction loop systems. With 32 product-packed pages including a new section detailing dimensions and mounting instructions for C-TEC’s most popular control panels, the catalogue is your indispensable guide to the UK manufacturer’s range of cost-effective and easy-to-install fire alarm control panels, call systems, disabled refuge systems and voice alarms. Featured for the first time are a host of new products including a new stainless-steel enclosure for the XFP fire panel and ECU-8 disabled refuge controller, a soon-to-be-released infrared neck pendant for the Quantec addressable call system and an extended range of third-party certified EN54-4/A2 power supplies. Andy Green, C-TEC’s Marketing Services Manager commented: “We are very proud of the fact that all C-TEC’s products are manufactured in the UK and the new catalogue is the perfect showcase for them. The new dimensions section will hopefully be a hit with installers as it gives key information at a glance and has been specifically designed to assist with installation.”

For further information telephone 01942 322744 or visit www.c-tec.co.uk.

For further information telephone 0208 660 7667 or visit www.stoakes.co.uk

‘All round’ style and heat

For further information visit www.stelrad.com.

Stelrad, has launched Softline, a contemporary approach to traditional solutions that features a unique curved shaped grille for those looking for the ultimate in radiator design and performance at an affordable price. With 94 models available in a wide range of sizes and outputs, Stelrad Softline offers installers, developers and the new build sector a high quality and innovative radiator that can add a new dimension to any room in the home. The new Stelrad Softline range comes complete with all the features expected from a market leader. Combining the most sophisticated production resources in Europe and independent laboratory testing, the Softline performs to a maximum working pressure of 116psi (8 bar) and conforms to BS EN 442 – the European Standard for radiators.

Folding doors in the frame D R Services, the recognised company for the supply of architectural solutions is now taking a step further and offering clients a new advancement in folding door design. Looking at the market, D R Services noticed that architects and interior designers have previously been unable to utilize frameless glass doors for

exterior applications, as they did not provide the necessary thermal performance under Part L of the Building Regulations. To combat this, D R Services has combined its efforts with Germanbased manufacturer Diefenthaler Total-Glass UK and can now utilise glaze openings up to 12 metres in width and 3.5 metres high. D R Services can supply the Diefenthaler Total-Glass folding doors as bespoke packages.

For further information telephone 01279 445277 or email info@drservices.co.uk

Architects Choice 21

product news

Online cable sizing calculator Draka has added to its already extensive customer support arsenal with the launching of a unique cable sizing calculator on its website. The service is based on BS 7671:2008 [Requirements for electrical installations.

IEE Wiring Regulations. Seventeenth edition], which has been described by the Institute of Engineering & Technology as “a set of golden rules for electrical installation work and encourages best practice amongst the profession”. Identifying the precise cable specification takes a matter of seconds using the new Draka online calculator. It starts with selecting the

Access and Escape’s roof access systems a hit with architects

desired cable from a drop-down box, the desired phase of the supply, whether it is single or multi-core and if the cable is to be buried. The calculator then moves on to installation method and cable grouping, before requiring boxes to be filled in with the remaining cable requirement data. The precise cable specification is then displayed on the screen. This latest Draka initiative comes hard on the heels of the decision by Amtech to incorporate the full range of Draka fire performance cabling into its ProDesign software.

For further information telephone 01332 345431, email sales@draka.com or visit www.drakauk.com

Access and Escape Limited’s roof access systems are proving increasingly popular with architects and building control personnel across the country. Their combination sets of RHA roof access covers with skirt, foldaway ladder and ceiling access door delighted Hartlepool Community Medical Centre whilst their 4880mm x 1100mm progressive gas spring design RHA (pictured) satisfied the British Schools for the Future project in Jarrow. Access and Escape are also offering Biomass access cover solutions to schools, sports centres and new builds.

For further information telephone 01670 542867, email sales@accessandescape.com or visit www.accessandescape.com

Open metering system The “Open Metering System” initiative of the manufacturers’ associations figawa, KNX and ZVEI has published an open, manufacturer independent, interoperable device and interface definition called an “Open Metering System Specification”. At present, the OMS specifications are being reviewed by the European Committee for Standardisation (CEN), as European new work item proposal TC 294. The OMS specification is available on the internet at www.openmetering.org. From May 2007, several working groups of the Open Metering initiative checked the use of existing standards and defined supplements or concretions where necessary. For the data transfer between the actual meters and the data concentrator MUC – defined as primary communication – the EN 13757 standard was identified as the only current standard applicable to metering devices. This standard defines

the M-Bus as a physical interface (wired and wireless), as well as a data protocol. EN 13757 also complies with the KNX standard. The remote communication is defined by approved internet standards, with transfer either directly via a DSL hook-up in the building, via mobile phone networks such as GPRS, or via PLC technology on the power distribution line.

For further information visit www.knz.org

SOLVING LIMESCALE PROBLEMS IN CEMENT PRODUCTION Urumieh White Cement Co. is a large cement manufacturer based in Iran. Water is an essential part of the cement production process and as the factory is based in a hard water area, resultant scale build up was a problem and affected the efficiency of the production equipment. The management decided to trial the Hydropath physical water conditioning technology; they installed two AquaKlear units at the site; one P120 unit and one P160 unit to tackle the limescale problem on the main supply and return

22 Architects Choice

line. Hydropath technology is an electronic device that prevents various problems, which occur in water. The patented technology is able to induce a propagating electric field in a pipe system without using electrodes.

The system induces an electric current at AM frequencies (between 100 and 200 KHZ) up and down the water flow for ranges of hundreds of meters.

For further information telephone 0115 986 9966 or visit www.hydropath.com

Shoots for growth Fire detection and alarm products manufacturer, Hochiki Europe, has completed the first phase of a major investment programme that has seen an increase in the production of essential PCBs [printed circuit boards]. These electronic devices are at the very heart of all of the products manufactured at the Gillingham, Kent plant, and the new SMT [Surface Mount Technology] line has resulted in a doubling of the output. This first phase involved the commissioning of two new cutting-edge SMT placement machines. These robotic machines are used for the high-speed, high-precision placing of surface-mount devices onto the numerous PCBs that are required for Hochiki Europe’s ever-expanding range of products. One of the new machines uses sophisticated laser technology to place resistors and capacitors, while the other is an ultra-precise SMT placement machine that utilises the latest camera technology to carry out the more accurate and complex alignment of minute components. Hochiki Europe has been active in the fire safety market since 1993, manufacturing intelligent and conventional detectors and ancillaries that are marketed throughout Europe, the Middle East and Africa for commercial, industrial, marine and high-hazard applications.

For further information telephone 01634 266 566, email news@hochikieurope.com or visit www.hochikieurope.com

product news

Changing lives Part of a £10m regeneration of a World Heritage Site is ‘raising the bar’ in provision in public toilets through a ‘total’ approach to accessibility.

Merseytravel, Merseyside’s public transport body, is moving forward with the regeneration of the Pier Head Ferry Terminal. The new terminal creates a landmark building, which includes best practice for access for the disabled through detail such as an innovative ‘Changing Places Changing Lives’ toilet facilities. The disabled public convenience features a hoist, changing table, shower, and Closo-Mat ‘wash and dry’ toilet and Aerolet vertical toilet lift. The Clos-o-Mat ‘wash and dry’ toilet looks like a conventional WC, but includes an integral douche and drier. The Aerolet vertical toilet lift, also supplied by Total Hygiene, replicates the

Keeping up with demand

I would like to apologise for the error made in the September issue of Architects Choice.The incorrect telephone number was displayed for Sliders UK. Please note the correct telephone in this press release.

Editor

James Latham to distribute Accoya® wood James Latham has been appointed by Titan Wood Limited as a national distributor of Accoya® wood, the highly durable, and dimensionally stable certified softwood. Lathams imports and distributes timber throughout the UK and has a strong track record in successfully marketing new and innovative products.

Accoya® wood is now available through Lathams, from eight distribution points covering the UK. Chris Sutton, Director at James Latham, said: “This is a great opportunity for us as a company to further develop sales of Accoya® to both our existing customer base and potential new users. Accoya® is a fantastic material for external joinery applications and we believe that we’ll have great success with this new product.” Accoya® is a high performance product using certified softwoods, which can be safely recycled, and is as impressively durable as the highest quality tropical hardwoods. Produced using

Orbis Integra at Bermondsey Laidlaw Solutions’ Orbis Integra Doorset and Stainless Steel Handrail systems have been installed in the Bermondsey Square hotel, designed by Munkenbeck and Marshall. Described as ‘the hottest new addition to London’s coolest boutique hotel scene’, factory fitted Orbis Commercial ironmongery was also used with laminated and painted doorsets, guest room doors being supplied with an integrated, electronic VingCard® access system. Integra’s metal frame clamps around the wall to provide a rigid assembly with no visible fixings, making installation

natural motion of standing up and sitting down, gently raising and lowering the user to position them accurately over the toilet as required whilst enabling their feet to remain in contact with the floor and maintaining the centre of gravity above the feet for balance.

For further information visit www.clos-o-mat.com

Flooring in disguise Using Remmers polyurethane comfort floors and an artistic design, installers Floortrak have delivered a bespoke ‘concrete look’ floor for retailer Levi in Carnaby Street, London. The floor offers a seamless, weld free finish unlike sheet or tile floors and is fully bonded to the subfloor to offer excellent durability. This floor can be provided in any colour or combination of colours and is available in gloss or matt finish in a smooth or textured finish.

Specialist Patio door manufacturer Sliders UK has announced the launch of a new range of class-leading PVC-U bi-folding doors in response to increasing customer demand. The unique design of Sliders’ bi-fold doors means that both cill and track are incorporated into the threshold, resulting in a reduced frame height for improved aesthetics and a smoother opening and closing operation. In addition, double perimeter weather seals on all sashes deliver improved weather performance, making them draught-free and energy-efficient. A variety of finishes are available to complement any style of home including white, woodgrain and a range of solid colours. Aesthetically pleasing and robust, the bi-fold doors combine style with no compromise in security.

Sliders’ single and double sash opening options include the cylinderless lock and handle system. Incorporating traditional keys with a modern locking system provides a superior level of security for enhanced protection.

For further information telephone 0845 373 0103/ www.remmers.co.uk.

For further information telephone 01772 698222, e-mail sales@sliders-uk.com or visit www.sliders-uk.com

modified fast growing species, Accoya® is a quality, long lasting product that is suitable for a wide range of external joinery applications.

For further information telephone 0116 257 3415, email marketing@lathams.co.uk, or visit www.lathamtimber.co.uk

time far quicker. As a second fix operation, risk of damage while services are on site is also substantially reduced. Single rebate frame 100mm, 125mm, 140mm and 165mm profiles are available for stud or blockwork walls, timber doors, metal frames, glazing and ironmongery is available in a wide range of finishes and frame colours, all guaranteed for 10 years. To add design flair to stairways, Laidlaw’s Stainless Steel Handrail system in Brushed Stainless Steel was installed, line side fixed with clear, toughened glass infill panels.

For further information telephone 01902 600 431 – doorset or 01902 600 420 – handrail.

Architects Choice 23

product news Laminate veneer lumber A new CE marked and FSC certified, high strength engineered timber option for loadbearing applications in housing, commercial and industrial constructions are now available in the UK from Steico Limited. Steicoultralam laminated veneer lumber (LVL) is CE certified to EN 14374 standards including bending strength, compression strength and bending stiffness, all key indicators for roof beam and support applications. Highly rigid Steicoultralam typically suits loadbearing applications such as main beams, flush beams, ceiling beams, rim boards, sole plates, top plates or lintels and door products. Available customized, within the maximum dimensions of 106mm thickness x 1,250mm width x

Synergy spreads its wings 20,000mm length, Steico also provides a range of standard sizes.

For further information telephone 01634 733220, email moore@steico.com or visit www.steico.com

Safe-T-Wood Jaymart introduces Plaza Safe-T-Wood, the new and exclusive range of vinyl sheet flooring that is designed in an exceptionally realistic wood effect. Jaymart has utilised modern production methods to recreate the wood-like appearance and texture of an expensive wood floor and maintains all the benefits of being a practical vinyl. The Plaza Safe-T-Wood key features consist of: Real life wood patterns; Wear layer Polyurethane reinforcement; No wax, no polish maintenance; IMO approved for Maritime usage; Wear layer thickness 0.5mm and comes in 2.0m wide rolls. The Jaymart SafeT-Wood vinyl flooring is perfect for commercial applications such as retail spaces, museums and art galleries and offices, as well as hotels, schools and restaurants. The Vinyl flooring is also equally practical in domestic environments.

For further information telephone 01373 864 926 or visit www.jaymart.net

Carpet couture from Hartley and Tissier

For further information telephone 01242 677 985 or visit www.hartleys-of-paris.com

Forming a striking part of any interior scheme, the distinctive carpet collections from Hartley and Tissier combine British made quality with Parisian design to bring a touch of couture styling to contract and hospitality interiors. Leaders across the continent within the commercial sector, the company now provides a complete package for British interior designers and architects, from design and manufacture to supply and installation, for any furnishing or refurbishment project, large or small, classic or contemporary. Known for quality, their stylish, hard-wearing flat weave and wool blend designs feature across stair-runners and full-sized carpets, and because they make and dye their yarns in the UK, Hartley and Tissier can offer a quick turnaround. However, for a truly bespoke look, the company also provides an individual design service, creating unique patterns and colourways quickly and to exact specifications, even for smaller runs of carpet, for added impact without sky high costs.

VINYL FLOOR RECYCLING SCHEME LIFTS OFF Altro and Polyflor, have launched the vinyl flooring recycling take-back scheme. The new industryfunded Recofloor scheme, managed by Axion Consulting, will increase the recycling of waste vinyl flooring in the UK. Through the scheme, safety flooring offcuts and smooth vinyl offcuts from the installation process will be recycled back into new flooring. Uplifted, or end-of-life material, will be used in the manufacture of traffic calming products, such as traffic cone and road barrier

24 Architects Choice

bases. Axion Consulting is the agent for the Recofloor scheme, which has developed from a WRAP-funded (Waste & Resources Action Programme) trial to increase the collection and recycling of vinyl flooring. As a free-standing industry scheme, the target now is to create a sustainable, cost-effective and efficient collection system.

For further information telephone 0161 426 7731 or visit www.axionconsulting.co.uk.

Mereway Bathrooms’ Synergy freestanding furniture range goes from strength to strength, now offering ultimate flexibility as units are now optioned without the basins, allowing customers to add on extra units side by side to create desired shapes and sizes to suit. Also new to the collection is the fabulous new wall hung midi unit and brand new 5-way square legs in a stunning chrome finish.

Synergy is available in eight colour options and 4 cabinet designs. Flexible and contemporary in style, Synergy is perfect to suit any bathroom or open plan bath/bedroom space.

The range comprises Aura 420mm compact hinged door unit with solid surface worktop and round vessel ceramic basin, Brisa a compact 460mm squared two drawer unit - or Solana 650mm wide two drawer cabinet with rectangular ceramic basin - all complete with feature back panel, mirror and glass shelf.

Also available is the Mini Brisa unit at just 325mm square in size, making it ideal for ensuites and small spaces. The new midi unit is so incredibly versatile it can be planned into any bathroom and looks fabulous as a standalone unit or as a combination of two of three in a row for a truly stunning look.

For further information telephone 0121 706 5750 or visit www.merewaybathrooms.co.uk

product news

The might of the Mini OM

High performance

by Pressalit

Elica introduces the Mini OM collection of cooker hoods to their impressive portfolio. The collection comes in six different colour finishes including: Apple Green, Electric Blue, Turquoise, Sunrise Orange, Curry Yellow and Provence Purple. Elica’s design team has created the Mini OM from glass and polishes stainless steel. It includes three speed settings and washable odour and grease filters. The compact and unqiue style of the Mini OM comes in at a tiny 550mm x 515mm x 332mm, the extractor has a maximum airflow of 850m3/h and a maximum decibel rating of 57dBA. For further information telephone 01252 351111 or visit www.elica.co.uk

Waterfall of desire Abode launch Desire, an innovative, contemporary range of quality chromed brass products. The 3-litre a minute tap spouts have been exclusively designed with a sloped cut-out to ensure the water cascades evenly into the basin or bath. The range is full and varied and includes short and architecturally tall single lever basin mixers with extended and short spouts, bidet mixer, wall mounted basin mixer plus, the very first wall mounted, thermostatic cascading waterfall bath filler with shower diverter, on the market. Desire will appeal to those design-conscious consumers looking for top quality taps that have style and flair and who want their bathrooms to ooze opulence.

A partnership with one of the UK’s leading authorities on composite engineering has led to Pressalit Care introducing its new Wet Floor Former for use in the construction of level access showering and wet rooms. The Advanced Composites Manufacturing Centre at the University of Plymouth has worked with Pressalit Care UK in the design and development of the new Wet Floor Former. The resulting design demonstrates a 40 per cent increase in flexural strength, and more than 90 per cent increase in linear stiffness over the company’s previous model. The preformed base is a quick, simple and cost effective means of creating a wet floor area, designed for installation in both concrete and timber floors. Manufactured from toughened glass reinforced plastic (GRP) for strength and durability, Pressalit Care Wet Floor Formers can safely take a loading of up to 30 stone (190kg) catering for the weight of both a wheelchair user and a carer. Installation and handling is made easy with the light-weight of the formers. The overall tray depth is 22mm, with innovative trim line markings embossed on the back to give accurate guidance to installers, allowing for maximum flexibility where site restrictions and obstacles prevent full size installation.

For further information telephone 0844 8806950, email uksales@pressalitcare.com or visit www.pressalitcare.co.uk

For further information 01226 283434, email info@abode.eu or visit www.abode.eu

Commercial fireclay range Shaws of Darwen ‘British made’ white glazed commercial fireclay products suit all applications in public and contract sectors of the market.

Fireclay is a traditional robust material which can be used in many areas. Products include an amazing array of eight sizes of Belfast sinks which are all acid and alkali resistant, lab sinks, two styles of practical floor or wall mounted cleaner’s sinks with stainless steel bucket gratings plus many other sinks.

For further information telephone 01254 775111 or visit www.shawsofdarwen.com

The next generation Generation XXI: the high-end toilet seat line by Carrara & Matta is now available as a slow-close seat. The new range has defined but soft lines and is the result of a study that combines innovation with design. The seat is not only functional, but also offers elegant and sleek design to complement any bathroom. Generation XXI is manufactured from American Innova – a material of moulded wood and thermoset resin guaranteed against splitting and cracking. Through a new technology for the processing of the material, the

shapely designs provide a more harmonious look in line with other new design trends within the house.

Generation XXI provides perfect stability on ceramic thanks to the combination of EVA Bumpers integrated in the ring and cover, and the high-quality chrome hinges with full adjustability. The new seat is also certified Smart WoodCM Rediscovered, recognition of the use of 100 per cent recycled wood.

For further information telephone 0800 783 3687 or visit www.bemiseurope.com

Architects Choice 25

product news

‘Aqua-Systems’ is the new face of Impey Wetrooms In these uncertain times many companies are battening down the hatches and watching their expenditure with the eyes of a hawk. But one Somerset-based company has invested significantly in a major rebranding exercise in order to underpin its position as the UK’s leading wetroom specialist.

‘Aqua-Systems’ is the fresh new face of the domestic wetroom division at Impey Ltd. It replaces the old identity with a vibrant design and consistent use of aqua-blue and grey, new key messages and a range of photography that shows the versatility of the product range. The new look is the result of a collaboration between Impey’s own marketing department and Bristol-based agency Create Marketing.

Ben Hollom is Impey’s Marketing Manager and co-ordinated the project. “We feel that in these uncertain times it is important to offer our customers as much support as possible. That is why we created Aqua-Systems – it is a complete package that has been designed to help make wetrooms easier to understand, tackle any concerns and make the systems easier for our merchants and retailers to sell. We have de-mystified the process and made the wetroom concept easier to understand,” says Ben “and this is important for our retailers and merchants alike. With Aqua-Systems the general builder can now enter into a lucrative market that has until now been the sole preserve of ‘specialist installers’ and of course this makes wetrooms more accessible to the general consumer which is good news for everyone”.

Bespoke wetroom screen options To add that extra ‘wow’ factor, Impey also offers an impressive selection of accessories and wetroom-specific shower screens, each with a contemporary frameless design. Each screen in the CRE-8 range is formed from high quality 8mm toughened glass* and features the excellent Aqua-ShieldPlus stay clean surface finish. There are many configurations available and there is the choice of clear glass, smoked glass, privacy panels or even a combination of both! Perhaps best of all however,

Impey also offers a unique service which allows the designer to create bespoke glass panels that are tailored in shape and size to suit specific requirements. This gives the designer more creative freedom and the client gets their wetroom finished just the way they like it.

For further information telephone 0870 9090 770 or visit www.impey-aquasystems.com

Meeting Part Promoting G regulations anti-scald valves Bristan’s ecosmart collection provides architects and specifiers with an effective way of meeting the 125 litre per head per day Water Efficiency Standard set out in the new Part G of the Building Regulations. Offering a choice of water saving products, the range also includes the Dune suite which features a 2.6/4 litre flush WC and a 140 litre capacity acrylic bath.

The bath is full length and achieves its lower capacity by having a raised base, enabling the user to still enjoy a lie down soak.

Specifying these products will have a significant impact on meeting the target set out by Part G and, as they use much less water than standard fittings, will allow better flowing products to be specified in the dwelling like the shower in the bathroom. Further savings can also be achieved by installing flow limiters into taps and showers.

Bristan’s flow limiters are available from one to six litres a minute for taps and four to fourteen minutes for showers and can help you to increase water efficiency in the prop-

26 Architects Choice

erty without having to change the style of the specified taps.

For further information telephone 0844 701 6271 or visit www.bristan.com/ecosmart

Intatec introduces Intamix 15mm and 22mm valves as part of their collection for ideal bathroom installation. The new valves are easy to fit and to service with no need to disrupt the water supply. Intatec is promoting the valves as a reaction to the legislation changes that intends to make thermostatic valves mandatory in all new-build bathrooms as of this Autumn. With this is the aim to lower the injury and death rate that occurs in the bathroom due to scolding

ever year. Further to this move, Intatec has introduced a booklet ‘Everything you need to know about anti-scald’ as a guide to installers, specifiers and householders, demonstrating the important of fitting these anti-scald valves for a safer bathroom environment.

For further information telephone 01785 218230 or visit www.intatec.co.uk

Web Guide YOUR ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO THE WORLD WIDE WEB!

Yoru assurence of legal and sustainable timber

www.kingspan.com

‘Intelligent

heating’

www.warmworld.co.uk

www.pefc.co.uk “Leading pioneers in the design, manufacture and use of architectural hardware allied fittings”

www.handlesandfittings.com

comar delivers www.levolux.com

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www.super-e.com Philips - promising ‘sense and simplicity’ and delivering innovative lighting solutions.

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www.hamworthy-heating.com VAN DAMME. Probably the best A/V cable in the world - Reassuringly Affordable

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