

Eco Clipper presents an innovative mowing system designed to meet the challenges of maintaining large grass areas, from sports fields to expansive lawns. This advanced system, proven over years of use on turfgrass farms, is distinguished by its unique mowing technology that ensures consistent, high-quality cuts. Whether the grass is dry or damp, Eco Clipper’s fast-spinning, precision blades and smooth deck efficiently lift and evenly disperse clippings, leaving no large clumps.
and allows for mowing in noisesensitive areas such as urban parks and residential zones, all without disturbing the surroundings.
For sports field managers and landscapers, this allows for flexible scheduling even when conditions are less than ideal. The deck’s design not only closely follows ground contours but also minimises soil compaction, promoting healthier root growth and improved water drainage.
Another key benefit of the Eco Clipper system is its quiet, energyefficient operation. The electric drive reduces environmental impact
With models like the RM343, FM343, and FM4 Sport, Eco Clipper offers tailored solutions for various needs. Each model is engineered to enhance mowing quality, improve operational efficiency, and reduce maintenance costs, providing a sustainable, quiet, and cost-effective approach to turf management.
Discover how Eco Clipper is redefining standards in turf care.
info@ecoclipper.com www.ecoclipper.com
0121 824 4743 | buildings@bestpracticeuk.co.uk
www.bcruk.co.uk
Earlier this year, Pandor proudly celebrated its 10th anniversary as a leading UK manufacturer of bespoke doors and panelling. Founded in 2014 by Mike Hill, the company has steadily grown, serving diverse sectors, including commercial buildings, offices, hospitals, and residential properties. Its stateof-the-art production facility in Sittingbourne, Kent, is equipped with advanced machinery to ensure top-quality manufacturing and finishing for every project.
In the wake of the Grenfell Tower tragedy, Pandor has taken extra care to manufacture fire door sets that meet FD30, 60, 90, and 120 certifications, offering all clients peace of mind with full certification and traceability. The company also offer a variety of finishes, including laminated, painted, and veneered options, tailored to clients' specific needs.
With over 40 years of expertise in the fire door industry, Mike Hill has always emphasised a customer-first approach. Pandor is committed to listening closely to its clients and delivering on their needs promptly, which has earned them the trust and loyalty of many long-term customers. Specialising in made-to-order fire doors, decorative doors, frames, and related products, Pandor focuses on certified fire doors that are essential for passive fire protection systems.
Pandor takes great pride in its ability to tackle complex projects and meet tight deadlines, as seen in its recent work on an oversized mansion door and a crucial government project. As the company looks ahead, it is committed to continuing its investment in cutting-edge machinery and sustainable practices, such as using FSCcertified wood and water-based finishes, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of quality and innovation in the industry.
T 020 8279 7611
M 07909 530007
mike@pandor.ltd
http://pandor.ltd
In this issue of Building & Construction Review, we bring you the latest and most up-todate engineering and construction news, to help keep your building business ahead of the curve.
Our October issue brings you a round-up all of the latest news and innovations from across the sector.
Have you ever wondered about the work behind large scale events? Olympus Crew has been awarded our Commitment to Outdoor Building Services. The team work on a large range of events from Christmas light rigging at major shopping centres like the Trafford Centre in Manchester, live music events such as Parklife, through to sports branding like Formula E and even popular tv series like ‘The Voice.’ If you need professional event support, read more on page 3.
From event support to façade marketing across construction and manufacturing: Efendi Architectural is the recipient of the BCR Recommends Award on page 5. Having the right online presence, with the right content and engagement has become a top priority for many companies and Efendi offers a bespoke approach each time. From the initial meeting, the team will offer a timetabled marketing approach right for your company.
Check out our bumper BCR Recommends features including Goland Recruitment Ltd on page 4. With all the focus on the skills shortage, let Goland find the best staff for your commercial or construction projects. From temporary to permanent positions, this recruitment specialist will get your dream team up and running in no time.
After a bumper crop of trade shows, we bring our round-up of Vertical Days with top exhibitors: Direct Hoist and Electroelsa. Read all about the showcased lifting equipment on page 9.
Don’t forget to send us your latest construction updates and news. Email us at: buildings@bestpracticeuk.co.uk
Here at Building & Construction Review, we’re
Now that autumn is on its way, many of us are already turning our focus to Christmas. By early November, many major UK shopping centres will have switched their show-stopping Christmas lights on. The Trafford Centre in Manchester is wellknown for its colourful Christmas light display in particular, with thousands of visitors flocking every year to the seasonal ice rink, Christmas markets, fairground rides and of course, late night shopping.
The team behind the Christmas light rigging at Trafford Centre is Olympus Crew as Director Dominic Riley explains, “Christmas light rigging is our biggest contract of the season. We also work on the White Rose Shopping Centre in Leeds and Meadowhall Shopping Centre in Sheffield. It’s a major job but an important one for those local economies, as the retail high street and independent sectors rely heavily on Christmas
shoppers. Christmas lights also signify the magic of Christmas for thousands of residents around the country –they make everyone smile!”
Olympus Crew was established back in 2018, under the expert guidance of Dominic – who has a unique approach to his teams’ event crew approach. Having spent seven years previously working as a warehouse assistant and later in management in the events industry, Dominic experienced firsthand the importance of grafting during long hours and the importance of a supportive crew, which he has installed into his company’s ethos.
Since inception, Dominic and his crews have worked with over 250 clients internationally and now have over 150 crew members between the Leeds and London bases. The team consists of general loaders/ unloaders, installers/breakers, FLT operators, van drivers, IPAF operators, carpenters (some with vinyling experience) and audio-visual technicians, with crew chiefs managing day-to-day operations.
The areas of expertise are broad and include sport branding such as Formula E, international Formula 1, 100 cricket series to Wembley Stadium. One highly popular tv series they’ve worked on is The Voice UK – now on its 13th season, with 20 million viewers regularly turning in every week. The skilled carpenters build/break the set for this iconic singing show each season. Within the film industry, Olympus Crew specialises in marquees, which are frequently used at Pinewood and Leavesden studios.
“We worked in the film industry during COVID – building marquees while most of the country was Lockdown, we kept going without furlough to make sure we helped the film industry continue.
“For live music events, our AV, carpentry and tipping and loading staff work on the Leeds, Reading and Parklife festival sets every year, with audience capacities of 40,000, 80,000 and 105,000 respectfully. Throughout the year, our expert teams work on various corporate events – including huge global brands like Netflix and private weddings.
“One of the biggest challenges for outdoor event work is the weather – even in summer! as the UK weather can be highly unpredictable! We monitor winds at all times and everything is HSE-compliant to the nth degree. All our ropes, climbing equipment, pullets and strops are rigorously checked and all lifting practices are LOLER-compliant.”
To book event support now (even at short notice) or for any general enquiry, contact the team directly below: M 07904 903452 info@olympuscrew.co.uk www.olympuscrew.co.uk
Here at Goland Recruitment Ltd, we have extensive network and experience in placing exceptional candidates for the role you require. Whether it be in Construction, Retail, Hospitality or Commercial we are at your disposal to do the leg work for you.
Save time and money when recruiting for temporary or permanent/full-time position as we spend a considerable amount of time reading through the specifications and searching for exceptional candidates.
Please give us a call or drop us an email today if you require our assistance and we will do our best to get you the right person for the job at a rate that suits your budget.
Our full time placements fees are normally 12% to 15% depending on the role and the salary, we now however have a set rate for all permanent roles placements of 8% no matter what the salary, but for your first two placements we are running a special offer of 5% across the board so don’t miss out.
Please keep us in mind for all your Recruitment requirements, much appreciated.
For more information, please see details below: T 01908 102078 info@goland.group www.goland.group
The landscape of business finance is dynamic and constantly evolving, shaped by technological advancements, economic shifts, and changing business needs. In today's fast-paced environment, businesses require more than just traditional financing options—they need flexible, innovative solutions that cater to their unique circumstances.
Let us introduce to you, Principal Business Finance, a trusted partner to the construction industry since its inception, helping both startups and established industrial businesses secure the equipment and funding they need to grow and succeed. Its mission is to support UK SMEs by offering a diverse range of finance products, each tailored to meet the unique needs of your business.
From asset and equipment finance to vehicle finance, business loans, governmentbacked loan schemes, invoice finance, and more, Principal Business Finance provides comprehensive solutions for all types of businesses. Whether you are a sole trader, partnership, LLP, or limited company, Principal is here to help.
Principal Business Finance is committed to seeing UK businesses thrive. By empowering business owners with the financial support they need, they’ll help you to unlock your full potential. With funding available from £10,000 to £5,000,000 and approvals in as little as 8 hours, Principal is your go-to partner for business growth.
Let Principal Business Finance fuel your business ambitions by getting in touch below:
T 01604 217998 info@principalbusinessfinance.co.uk https://principalbusinessfinance.co.uk
Wallbed Systems Ltd (WBS) is a London-based global business providing an exclusive range of wall bed hardware designs to furniture manufacturers, hardware distributors, retailers, and hospitality contractors worldwide, for over 20 years.
Initially a major supplier to the USA market, Wallbed Systems Ltd (WBS) has been designing & manufacturing spring systems, allowing for safe & precise tension adjustments and easy lifting, with no compromise on comfort or convenience. Sales coverage includes over 22 countries.
Let’s focus on three of its most popular products globally.
The Alpha bed – a best seller design in 20 countries
The Alpha bed system is available in standard and special sizes, vertical and horizontal mounting, with a choice of leg options and even a desk. The lightweight Alpha bed frames feature robust steel construction with reinforcing stiffeners, available in single, double, queen, and king sizes. This system includes the adjustable SBLM for perfect balance and easy, safe fingertip operation. Disappearing desk available too.
Hallmarks of WBS design
WBS wall beds are easy to install, fit mattresses up to 300mm, and ensure a great night's sleep. They include a counterbalance spring mechanism, frames, mountings, pivot system, springs, and fasteners. Powder-coated parts are ergonomic and durable, and the beds open and close with minimal effort.
NeXT bed
The latest NeXT bed offers an immediate, readyto-use solution with or without a cabinet, providing comfort like a conventional bed. Products are stocked globally, with advice available on options and sizes.
For more information on the full product range and cabinet designs:
T +44 (0)208 704 5796
M +44 (0)7780 661958
jeremy.waller@wallbedsystems.co.uk www.wallbedsystems.co.uk
Façades function firstly as a building’s main protection against external elements like wind and sun and secondly provide insulation. Thirdly, and somewhat contradictory they also cool buildings down. Fourthly, they can act as a bold design statement by architects. The façade sector is famed for innovation though and lately has seen trends in rainscreen façade design, helping to spearhead sustainable building design concepts. These include biophilic design integration, dynamic façades with responsive technologies and digital fabrication.
“Biophilic design includes vertical gardens/green walls which not only look great but enhance thermal regulation, promote local biodiversity and vastly improve local air quality. We’re seeing the hotel sector in particular moving towards this exciting concept. Similarly, next-level advancements in building technologies include kinetic elements, adaptive shading devices and smart glazing- essentially the building adapts to the weather to regulate solar heat gain and glare for example, whilst giving access to natural light. Architects are opting for horizontal and vertical fins from the panel joints to improve thermal comfort and substantially reduce energy consumption.
“Architects also now have access to digital fabrication technologies and parametric design
In this issue of Building & Construction Review, we are delighted to showcase Efendi Architectural with our BCR Recommends Award
tools to transform how rainscreen façades are designed, fabricated and assembled. These encompass generative modelling, 3D printing and algorithmic design.
“This all makes it an exciting time for façade marketing across construction and manufacturing and having the right online presence, with the right content and engagement has become a top priority for many companies,” explained Leo Collier-Bett, founder of Efendi Architectural.
Established in 2017, Efendi Architectural was the result of an extensive foray across print and digital marketing – within the construction/manufacturing industry in particular. With a working knowledge of façades and expertise in all forms of marketing from film and photography, construction timelapse, aerial film & photography, LinkedIn promotional packages to printed and digital brochure designs, Efendi Architectural offers a unique portfolio of services.
“From the offset, our insight/ consultancy meeting establishes what marketing phase is required and the timeframe. The bulk of our work is with façades and we offer a bespoke approach to each project. Through trust and professionalism, we have been approached by clients through word of mouth, which in many cases has led to ongoing retainer agreements. There are no hefty agency fees involved and we offer a turnkey solution – from initial design, project phase, finished piece and of course a killer marketing campaign. We are especially mindful of all legislative and compliance regulations across the sector, in the wake of the Grenfell fire tragedy back in 2017.
“The second phase of the damning Grenfell report by Sir Martin Moore-Bick this September has made a series of recommendations such as product regulation, redefinition of higher risk
buildings, responsibility for fire safety under a single Minister, centralisation of building control functions, review of private sector building control and much more. This marks an ongoing landmark shift in the construction and manufacturing sector.” added Leo.
If you’re looking to increase brand visibility, curate striking content, shift the narrative, or trailblaze across the construction or manufacturing industry, contact Efendi Architectural for an insight/consultancy meeting today: M +44 (0)7587 054663 info@efendiarchitectural.com www.efendiarchitectural.com
Traditional building materials require substantial energy for production. Building and construction projects account for 38% of global carbon emissions contributing to global warming and climate change.
With that in mind, the ArchellorMittal Orbital Tower at the 2012 London Olympics was made more sustainable by using 60% recycled steel. The decking boards on the viewing platforms were supplied by Kedel Limited and are manufactured from recycled plastic waste. Kedel’s pioneering approach to manufacturing building materials from recycled plastic make construction projects more sustainable keeping tonnes of plastic from ending up in landfill and incinerators.
Recycled plastics from Kedel offer the aesthetic appeal of traditional materials but with unmatched durability and longevity. They will not rot, are impervious to insects and weather damage, and are the ideal choice for outdoor applications such as building accessories, decking, fencing and furniture
Replacing wood with recycled plastic will also save our forests that are vital for removing greenhouse gasses from the atmosphere. This, along with the longevity of the product, has attracted the attention of architects and builders
worldwide. An Australian project replaced traditional wooden seating on vintage steam train carriages with Kedel’s recycled plastic boards. They will never again need replacement and are completely maintenance-free.
The initial investment for recycled plastic building materials is greater than wood, but cheaper in the long run. Use of recycled plastic eliminates future ongoing expenses of labour and materials for maintenance and inevitable replacement, making it a cost-effective, long-term investment, very attractive to government/corporate customers. This is a no brainer – the shift towards durable, recycled plastic building materials is more than just a trend; it’s a crucial step towards a sustainable future.
T +44 (0)1282 861325 sales@kedel.co.uk www.kedel.co.uk
FEATURES
▪ Fast, continuous in-line process
▪ Fully automated, plug & go
▪ Up to 50m2/hr flow rate!
▪ No hazardous chemicals
▪ Compact footprint
▪ User-friendly
APPLICATIONS
▪ Concrete paving & brick manufacturing
▪ Construction and building sites
▪ Concrete wagon washout
▪ Emergency pH treatment
▪ Demolition sites
▪ Wastewater
▪ Mining
A UK manufacturer with a DIFFERENCE where Free Advice & Personal service is key.
Avoid many pitfalls and hit the ground running! Playcraft Group pride ourselves on sharing years of experience on pertinent Key-Aspects of your Business Project – We’re not here to SELL you something you don’t need.
Free Advice, Free Floorplans, Free on-site visits Bespoke Advice, Manufacture and Install to UK Standards.
We are not a ‘Design & Install’ company, all our products are manufacturered in our own workshops.
enquiries@smartstormgroup.com www.smartstormgroup.com
WHY FREE OF CHARGE – ‘ACCURACY IS KEY’
Our objective is for you to arrive at a place you feel comfortable concept agreed at an acceptable price.
You CANNOT properly arrive at accuracy without a site visit and a face-toface meeting.
Playcraft Group will meet you at your venue free of charge.
SO WHY THE REFRESHING ‘NO SALES TALK’
Playcraft Group know ‘High Quality Help & Advice’ wins business.
Playcraft Group’s Director & Founder Mike Broadfield has ALWAYS differentiated this way.
Competitors are sales driven you speak with Salespeople who are bonused to sell you something.
Playcraft Group ALWAYS prioritise a 'Business Development' approach to Maximise Revenue at Minimum Cost
GET IMMEDIATE HELP & ADVICE FROM OUR DIRECTOR
T +44 (0)1792 422818 support@playcraft.wales softplay-manufacturer.com
The Old Depot, Old Road, Neath Abbey, Neath, Wales SA10 7LT
Service Sealing Solutions Ltd, based in Shropshire, is the exclusive UK distributor for industry-leading German manufacturers DOYMA and HKD.
Established in 2018 by Tina McAra, the company quickly became a trusted name in providing sealing solutions for pipes, cables and ducting, specialising in preventing water and gas infiltration in buildings. With over seven years of experience as a Technical Sales Engineer for DOYMA's previous UK distributor, Tina secured the exclusive UK distribution rights, leveraging her expertise to drive the company’s success.
The company primarily supplies high-quality sealing products to commercial builders across the UK, contributing to major projects like HS2 and Kings Cross. Its offerings include gaskets, mechanical fixings, and custom-made solutions for demanding environments like power plants and airports. These products ensure water tightness and prevent structural damage, making them indispensable for
underground installations.
Service Sealing Solutions Ltd distinguishes itself through a steadfast commitment to quality, offering DOYMA’s cutting-edge products with an unmatched 25-year warranty. This dedication is further highlighted by the introduction of the Curaflex Nova® gaskets, a testament to the company’s focus on innovation and reliability within the building industry. The Curaflex Nova® gasket inserts provide a safe and effective solution for sealing various services, protecting against both pressing and non-pressing water.
A unique feature of these gaskets is the Integrated Torque Limiter (ITL) principle, which ensures that the correct torque is always applied when
tightening, delivering consistent and reliable performance.
With other distributors providing similar products, Service Sealing Solutions Ltd stands out because it only uses the very best in German engineering, and what’s more, the company's expertise, experience and willingness to go the extra mile for every customer means it really doesn't have to work all that hard to remain competitive.
The aforementioned 25 year guarantee is a very important aspect of all its services, and cannot be matched by competitors. Combine that with its years of experience in the industry which allows them to consistently deliver on every level to the customers exact requirements means they are a distributor you can thoroughly trust.
Contact T 01952 510050 sales@servicesealingsolutions.co.uk www.servicesealingsolutions.co.uk
C40 Curaflex Doyma Gaskets
One of the UK leading installers of pre-insulated district heating systems, Vital Energi Utilities Ltd, use Doyma Curaflex C40 Gaskets to provide a water and air tight seal for all below ground building entries. The specialist installations can be subject to slight movement through expansion and contraction as the system heats and cools.
The Curaflex C40 Gasket is designed to accept the axial movement that may occur during the operation allowing Vital Energi to seal both the opening of the building
façade as well as the HDPE outercasing.
Vital Energi's Managing Director, Ashley Walsh, noted, “This provides our installation with an excellent termination. It provides confidence both to ourselves and our clientele that we'll leave the fully installed works sealed from any moisture ingress while providing a product that has the flexibility and capability to work alongside our very complex pre-insulated products.”
For more information visit: www.servicesealingsolutions.co.uk
RYNO is proud to announce 3 new systems that have been crafted to transform outdoor living.
The fully bespoke planter systems are the following:
s TerraSmart® Contour Bespoke Planter System, crafted for curves, waves, and radial designs.
s TerraSmart® Ledge Bespoke Planter System, designed for straight lines and angular corner details.
s TerraSmart® Ascent Bespoke Planter System, aptly named
due to its backward leaning face, and suitable for layouts including straights, corners, and curves.
TerraSmart® Planter Systems feature panels that come in virtually any required size, they integrate seamlessly in any project, offer a range of finishes, from steel and metallic to classic colours and timber cladding, and a choice of components, from recessed and cantilever seating to hinged access doors, and recessed lighting strips that bring the planters to life at night.
Each planter system offers a choice of fixing method:
s Baseboard Fix: Seamless integrated planter support, minimising weight and providing a void for services underneath.
s Concrete Fix: A concrete parapet to secure the planter edge.
See our Planters at our Studio, visit our website: www.rynosystems. com for more information, or please call: +44 (0)203 967 3500.
Need more covered space or need to protect your stock from the weather?
Stuart Canvas have produced retractable tunnels and semipermanent buildings for the industrial sector for over 50 years.
Retractable Tunnel buildings are ideal for additional storage space and are a perfect addition to any workshop or business. Our Tunnels are a perfect solution for creating
designated work areas and can be adapted to suit any operation, including spray paint booths and quarantine areas.
Whether large or small, fixed or retractable, Stuart Canvas can offer a solution to your storage needs and advise on how to create the best additional work space both internally or externally. Our Tunnels can be produced as mobile or static workshops and can be designed to be easily dismantled and assembled should they need to be relocated in the future.
Contact us to find out how we can help: T 01925 814525 www.stuartcanvas.co.uk
Our society is facing many challenges, none less than our housing situation. Bright Ideas plays its part in helping resolve some of the most difficult issues. Recently we signed off the final certificate for the £7.8m 61 affordable home housing development in Boho Middlesbrough. We only sign off when we have monitored the scheme for 12 months and seen to any defects. That's our commitment to quality.
This month we have made an application to convert a former pub into a rehabilitation centre for young men with alcohol issues. We plan to start in October and complete in March. We are working with our Local Authority colleagues to ensure the designs and support are exactly what’s needed. We plan to make a real difference to people’s lives. For Bright Ideas it’s all about our community.
M 07714 412689 info@brightideasdevelopment.co.uk https://brightideasdevelopment.co.uk
Direct Hoist and Electroelsa recently exhibited at the two-day Vertical Days show, held at Newark Showground. The show, dedicated to exhibiting lifting and working at height equipment, boasted over 330 companies and brands, on 140 stands, with a huge array of impressive machinery on demonstration.
Electroelsa and its UK distributor, Direct Hoist showcased a wide selection of their equipment for visitors to examine, including new models. On display was a PM-M56 transport platform with a 5,000kg lifting capacity, up to 250 metre working height and six different platform sizes and many configurations. The P46 mast climber, which has a working platform of up to 34 metres and up to 220 metre working height. PM-M23 with 2,300kg capacity and five interchangeable cages, up to 220 metre working height. PM-M10, 4 cage options, 1,000kg capacity, working height up to 220 metre working height depending on the mast type selected. They also demonstrated Electroelsa's new safety feature, missing bolts presence – which detects missing mast bolts during assembly.
Electroelsa, an Italian manufacturer of mastclimbing work platforms (MCWPs), transport platforms, material hoists and construction hoists, along with Direct Hoist, as their UK distributor, had a wide selection of their equipment available for visitors to view. Visitors to the stand could see design and safety implementations that have been made based on user experience, proving the firm's
willingness to meet customers’ needs.
Rob says, "Electroelsa is implementing a wide range of technological innovations, which we're excited to introduce to the British construction industry.”
Electroelsa is a market-leader in safety, and benefits from high-tech computer control, including SIM technology with data-logging; it features a self-diagnostic function to remotely relate to Direct Hoist any problems, wherever it is in the world.
The future is yellow, high in the sky.
T 01724 781647 www.directhoist.co.uk
Renewable energy heat pumps take natural thermal energy from the air, ground, or water and turn it into heat that can be used for hot water and heating systems.
They are an alternative to the traditional heating methods, such as gas, that are currently used to heat business properties up and down the country, but which are being phased out as part of the 2050 Government net zero targets.
There are three main types of heat pumps available to businesses:
S Air source heat pumps – These work by transferring heat from the air into a fluid. This fluid passes through a heat exchanger to warm up hot water cylinders for taps and showers, as well radiators and other heating systems.
S Ground source heat pumps – These circulate a mixture of water and antifreeze through a loop of piping buried outside your business premises. The heat from the ground
is then absorbed into the fluid before being passed through a heat exchanger into the heat pump.
S Water source heat pumps – If your business
Great British Lighting is a specialist lighting manufacturer with a reputation and portfolio established over the last 100 years. Our work is primarily in the manufacture of decorative light fittings for Public Buildings, Cathedral, Museums and Theatres and International Theme Parks: from one-off reproductions to large scale manufacture. All items are manufactured and assembled at their premises in Fleetwood, Lancashire.
With an archive of over 35,000 products, drawings and specifications, Great British Lighting can reproduce almost any luminaire from the last century and earlier, employing the latest CAD technology coupled with traditional craft skills. Great British Lighting also offers bespoke metalwork service producing high quality items such as balustrade, ecclesiastical fittings and door furniture.
Great British Lighting offer a comprehensive cleaning and restoration service, working sensitively on conservation projects to bring lighting and metalwork back to its original glory.
Recently completed the refurbishment of existing lighting at Rochdale Town Hall.
is based near a large area of water, a water source heat pump can be used to extract energy from it.
What are the benefits of switching to heat pumps?
S They will reduce your carbon footprint
S They will lower your energy bills
S They cost a lot less to maintain than gas boilers and have a longer life span
S They can be used as a cooling system in warmer weather
If you combine a heat pump with other renewable energy technologies, such as solar panels, you can make your business premises almost completely self-sufficient through self-generated energy.
If you would like to find out more about options available for your business, please get in touch with Go Geothermal today on 01388 720228, email: sales@gogeothermal. co.uk or visit: www.gogeothermal.co.uk
2 Universal bevels, ‘trimmed’ or ‘plaster in’ accept any of the following 12 interchangeable options:
Flush |
Adjustable
| Snoot |
Projector
Deep Snoot
| Surface
Cone Wall
Wash |
Eyeball
Zoom |
Tubespot
Flush | Floor
Washer
Available in 6, 10 or 15W, 5x CCT options, DTW & DW, All CRI 90+ 4, 6, 8, 10, 15, 24, 36 or 50º TIR optics
7x Baffle finish options and any bezel finish you desire. Accessories: honeycomb, ribbed or prismatic glass lenses.
40 years of designing downlights has resulted in our best ever project downlight solution.
Contact Ingenious Lighting Ltd for more information: M +44 (0)7785 953715 simon@ingeniouslighting.com
“Architecture is basically a container of something. I hope they enjoy not so much the teacup, but the tea.” Architect Yoshio Taniguchi
For over 20 years, Gromtec Europe Ltd has been involved in the manufacture and supply of mini floor boxes for a wide range of projects from airports to zoos, as well as a growing number of domestic projects. The modern built environment demands safe and plentiful access to power points. While wall sockets are typically the preferred location for power sockets, floor boxes provide power and data points for larger open plan areas, such as offices and concourse spaces.
Gromtec specialises in the supply of mini floor boxes where the surface finish is as important as the boxes function. Like a chameleon, the floor box must often blend into the overall floor finish. Inserts such as wood, tile, or marble are
commonly fitted into the floor box lid. We have over the years seen an increase in the specification of mini floor boxes in large domestic projects. Clients are seeking discreet access to power in the centre of their living spaces for a wide range of applications.
These thoughtful inputs greatly enhances and elevates our living and working environments and makes them safer by eliminating unsightly and dangerous trailing cables.
If you require more information about our ‘mini’ floor box range or our IP66 Simonbox product, please see our website: www.gromtec.com or call our office: 02032 867949, we will be happy to help. Enjoy the tea!
Are you looking for comprehensive ecological consultancy services to support your next building or construction project? Look no further than Learn Ecology Ltd.
Whether you need strategic advice, preliminary ecological appraisals, or UAV drone surveys for high-resolution mapping, Learn Ecology’s extensive ecological consulting services are available to sites nationwide, including Phase 1 habitat and general faunal surveys, UK Habitat Classification, Biodiversity Net Gain Assessment, and Phase II Protected Species surveys.
Learn Ecology leverages extensive experience in providing strategic ecological guidance to minimise environmental impacts during development. Its services include optimising project layouts to preserve ecologically significant areas, creating mitigation schemes, and offering both onand off-site compensation strategies. The company’s expert ecologists deliver clear and practical reports, such as Ecological Mitigation and Enhancement Strategies (EMES), Construction Environmental Management Plans (CEMP), Landscape Environmental Management Plans (LEMP), and Species-Specific Mitigation Strategies, ensuring projects meet ecological and regulatory requirements while promoting sustainability.
Founded by expert ecologists and skilled educators, Learn Ecology is dedicated to fostering awareness and involvement in the conservation of the UK's wildlife and habitats. Its mission emphasises making ecological knowledge accessible to a broad audience, empowering individuals and organisations to take meaningful action in protecting the natural environment. Through both education and handson consultancy, Learn Ecology bridges the gap between ecological expertise and practical conservation efforts, promoting sustainable practices in various sectors, including building and construction.
T 01926 919419 info@learn-ecology.com https://learn-ecology.com
Inspired by the traditional Japanese preservation technique, Shou Sugi Ban® is handcrafted blackened wood for interior and exterior timber cladding.
When charred, the dark timber panels form a textured crackled finish. This is desired for some architectural projects, however, our expert team apply additional techniques to extend the range:
s Light brushing results in a smooth finish
s Heavy brushing defines the grain
s Colour applications create lighter tones and tints
Shou Sugi Ban® is a marketleading product manufactured in Buckinghamshire
Our charred timbers are specified by architects as they provide a timeless finish that:
s Blends new buildings into the surrounding landscape
s Meets requirements for historical renovations & barn conversions
s Differentiates original and new features in urban developments
s Offers a sustainable and insulating building material
s Delivers a highly desirable aesthetic to architectural projects
Shou Sugi Ban® premium timber cladding has featured in several RIBA award-winning properties and requires low maintenance to retain its visual appeal.
See the full range on our website: https://exterior. supplies/charred-timbercladding or please contact Exterior Solutions Ltd for further information, quotes and samples or call 01494 711800.
Introducing EXADECK, our innovative extruded ceramic decking system with superior qualities to its alternatives, aluminium, composite and timber.
EXADECK is durable, looks great and performs exceptionally well for the best value for your money.
EXADECK stands out with its A1 fire rating, ideal for residential and commercial projects. Unlike traditional wood decking, EXADECK is weatherproof and impervious to moisture, making it ideal for damp, windy, and salty environments. It’s built to handle heavy foot traffic, making it perfect for busy communal areas.
EXADECK’s resistance to extreme temperatures, including frost and ice, ensures it stays in perfect condition all
year round. Its zero-water absorption minimises movement, substructure dependant, unlike composite and timber, which are susceptible to expand and contract. The scratchproof and stainresistant surface maintains a pristine appearance throughout its lifetime.
Fast and easy to install, and low on maintenance, EXADECK is a costeffective choice that lets you focus on your creative designs without worrying about durability. A 30-year warranty is included for peace of mind.
For architects seeking a superior decking solution, EXADECK is the perfect choice. Discover more at: www.firedeck.uk and see how EXADECK can transform your outdoor projects.
Seven people die every year as a result of accidents involving vehicles or mobile plants. In 2022/23, 10% of fatal accidents on construction sites involved people being struck by a moving vehicle. Construction is one of the deadliest injuries in the UK with a fatal injury rate of 1.72 per 100,000 workers – around 4.2 times higher than the all-industry rate. How is this still an issue in our modern safety-conscious world?
Natalie Sherborne, Product Development Manager at NEBOSH, believes it could be down to a lack of awareness on the behalf of the employer as to what they need to put in place.
“There is legislation in place that ensures you have safe access and egress, which includes vehicles entering construction sites and making sure pedestrians have safe walkways,” she says.
The planning stage of a construction project is crucial. Says Natalie, “As part of the planning stage there should be a construction phase plan – that's where the principal contractor, the principal designer, the client, and other people involved in the project should all be working together and understanding what's going to be put in place.”
The HSE advises that segregating pedestrians from vehicles, preferably by making routes entirely separate, is the most effective way of protecting them. Pedestrian traffic routes should ideally correspond to the paths people would naturally follow when walking across a site (often known as ‘desire lines’).
Keeping people safe on site is the number one priority in construction. The issue of people and vehicle segregation shouldn’t still be a matter of life and death, and planning and training are two key ways to make sure sites are safe.
To read this article in full, visit: www.nebosh.org.uk/our-news-andevents/our-news/segregation-ofpeople-and-vehicles
Sandpit Creations is an awardnominated creative workshop based in London, with a mission to create innovative sets, props, and experiences that both engage audiences and are built to withstand interaction.
Sandpit Creations works with a small but widely skilled group of individuals, bringing together carpenters, creative and concept designers, scenic artists, textiles specialists, creative technologists, prop makers, sculptors, and metalworkers as well as writers, directors and performers. Bringing these skills together under one roof ensures seamless communication and collaboration between each element of a project.
fibreglassing, textural effects, microelectronics, and robotics. They are also passionate about the latest developments in technology to deliver cutting edge special effects and interactive experiences.
Sandpit Creations launched in January 2023, and are proud to have worked with end clients including Samsung, Doc Martens, Aardman, Cupra, Kew Gardens and Wakehurst. They have ongoing projects with some of the UK’s foremost museums and attractions. They also work with many theatre and immersive companies to develop and build sets, props, costume pieces and even full show concepts.
They have experience in a range of modern and traditional fabrication techniques including joinery,
Contact M 07547 352391 info@sandpitcreations.com www.sandpitcreations.com
Rymer Trees and Hedging (RTH) is a tree nursery situated in the heart of East Anglia, which specialises in peat-free, cell-grown UK native trees primarily grown for woodland and hedgerow schemes. We are a small yet dedicated team, working tirelessly to cultivate robust and healthy stock that is ready to be established throughout the UK. Our team is made up of individuals from many different backgrounds, bringing a well-rounded and passionate approach to tree cultivation. Please visit www.rymertrees.co.uk or
Protek and Gloucester Timber Company (GTC) recently introduced Protek ESP to combat water damage in the timber industry. Their new product, 'ESP Panel,' seals plywood edges to prevent delamination, a common cause of structural and safety issues. Tested by BM TRADA, it protects plywood in extreme wet conditions, with one litre covering 200 metres of 18mm plywood edges – enough for 21 full sheets.
Protek is an independent, family-owned woodcare manufacturing business located in Somerset, UK. Since its establishment in 1983, this innovative company has aimed to produce high-quality, water-based wood stains, paints, decorative timber coatings, and preservatives. Renowned for its expertise and reliability, Protek offers a comprehensive range of products that provide excellent coverage, durable finishes, and environmental friendliness.
“The company was set up by my mother and father, Eric & Janet Thornborough. Protek
has always been pioneering in its environmental awareness, only making water-based products when creosote was still universally used. With a mission to change the manufacture of all fencing and shed products to our new water-based wood stains and treatments, our Protek 9 Star Fence Grade, diluted with 9 parts water soon became the industry standard. The decisions we make today to limit the impact we have on the environment is the same philosophy that Protek was created on, and one we continue to improve upon,” said Harriet Farquhar B.Sc. Joint Managing Director & daughter of Eric and Janet.
Another standout product, 'Timber Eco Shield,' uses nanotechnology for a waterproof finish that protects timber while inhibiting mold growth. It's ideal for softwood, hardwood, pressuretreated timbers, sheds, fencing, garden furniture, and more.
We asked Harriet about the advantages Protek products offer to their clients. She explained, “as manufacturers,
Established in 2006, Gloucestershire based Structure One specialize in full renovations, extensions and kitchen refurbishments.
Having started with smaller projects in the early years, progressing to the large commercial and residential commissions to include installation of kitchens for Howdens.
As a company we pride ourselves on effective planning and execution of the project with the customer requirements at the forefront. For Structure One, its also all about ensuring that the project is right first time.
Recent projects include the design and build of a new commercial gym (Full life fitness) and Focus well, a co-working office refurbishment which has been included in the 2024 London Construction Awards and featured in Septembers The Premier Construction Magazine.
Why not take look at our works on instagram: structure1timberworks or contact us via email: timberworks@structure1.co.uk
Contact Darren Noble on: 07903054918 Visit: www.structure1timberworks.com or https://online.fliphtml5.com/xahs/cjjk
we can swiftly adjust colours to align with current trends and fashions. Additionally, Protek collaborates closely with its industrial customers to create bespoke products, tailoring each to meet specific requirements and needs.”
Protek offers superior products with excellent coverage and long-lasting finishes. As a family-run business, it prioritises environmental friendliness in its manufacturing processes, earning the trust of loyal clients. It’s sustainable range of products supports eco-friendly building practices and significantly reduces long-term costs.
T 01749 344697 sales@protekproducts.co.uk www.protekwoodstain.co.uk www.esp-timbertreatments.com
Henco, an industry world leader in producing high quality sustainable pipes, connections, and fittings for the heating and cooling sector, has introduced a seamless and detectable underfloor heating system to their range.
Henco’s underfloor heating and floor cooling systems are engineered to provide even heating or cooling distribution throughout residential, commercial, and industrial spaces. Produced with high-quality materials, the advanced multilayer pipe network guarantees a comfortable environment with an efficient thermal output. The Henco system also provides flexibility for integration into both new and retrofit projects, ensuring seamless installation and minimal disruption. Additionally, the Henco system is easily detectable due to its aluminium core.
The new Henco Flex piping solution connects Henco’s underfloor heating with energy-efficient heating applications such as heat pumps. Henco Flex is lightweight but sturdy, plus due to the multilayer pipes
being integrated centrally in the insulation, Henco Flex can connect with either the Henco Press, Henco Brass Press or Henco compression fittings.
Underfloor heating is a cost-effective solution that can be easily customised to suit different building layouts and requirements. Henco offers intelligent control solutions that enables precise temperature regulation and scheduling, empowering users to control heating zones individually, optimising their energy consumption. The Henco team has an
For more information on the Henco range, please visit: www.henco.be
Base Structures is proud to announce our collaboration with Printworks and John Turner Construction on the groundbreaking redevelopment of Manchester’s iconic entertainment venue. This project features three distinct fabric schemes adorning both the internal & external elevations of the site.
The internal façade artwork, created by Manchester-based artist Alex Sylt, serves as a central public art piece within the venue. Utilising our large format fabric façade system and fabric printing expertise, we brought Sylt’s vision to life, adding a dynamic element to the venue's interior.
Printworks boasts an impressive history, and was once the business premises of several news outlets. The site housed a printing press until the late 1980s, and through much of the 20th Century, was the largest newspaper printing house in Europe and overtime has become a popular venue for shops, bars, restaurants and events. Following this extensive renovation, it now features updated artistic façades and a new impressive digital ceiling, the largest in Europe.
Working at this prominent city centre complex site posed challenges inside and out with restrictive pedestrian management which had to be managed with careful planning and limited access via the narrow surrounding streets. To overcome this, Base Structures engineered a steel frame on Dantzic Street, to install five large printed screens by hand. Also given the congested nature of the site and the intricacy of our works, careful co-ordination was essential, particularly while working alongside the digital ceiling installation.
The client required the internal artwork to be framed by a flashing surround with hidden fixings. We achieved this with innovative brackets and connections, incorporating fifteen speaker panels into a flush façade. These panels were designed to be removable and held with magnets,
concealing all fixings. We were very happy to be able to develop an efficient system of work that resulted in a quality build, ready in time for the renovated Printworks grand opening.
Andy Traynor, Director at Base Structures and Head of Installations and Health & Safety, remarked, “We were delighted to be part of this artistic and iconic redevelopment of a prestigious city centre location. Embracing creativity, we have enjoyed being able to bring large format art to the public. This renovation project has created a truly unique immersive experience and destination attraction to boost the public engagement with the space.
“The success of this project showcases the skills of the Base team, the breadth of what’s on offer at Printworks and what stunning results can be achieved in terms of updating our city centres and community spaces.”
For more information, further quotes or images, please contact Base Structures at: mail@basestructures.com and www.basestructures. com - for information about Printworks Manchester, visit: https://printworksmanchester.com
The ARBOFLEX® PU liquid applied waterproofing system from CARLISLE® was chosen for the Park Avenue Place at Neptune Wharf thanks to the long-term performance and integrity it offers. A single component system with proven root resistance and ease and speed of installation, it was ideal for the green roof project.
Complete solution
CARLISLE® supplied a complete roof build-up for all the roofs, terraces, and balconies of the development’s apartment blocks, along with the podium deck and the planters.
The roof build-up began with the CARLISLE® ALUTRIX® vapour control layer, followed by tapered fire-retardant rockwool insulation, and the ARBOFLEX® Liquid Carrier Membrane, prior to application of the ARBOFLEX® PU liquid-applied waterproofing.
Roofing contractor, T&T Roofing Limited, rollered the ARBOFLEX® PU system onto the roof surface, and the system’s glass fibre matting was laid onto
the wet roof covering. A clean roller was then used to draw the liquid through the mesh, verifying that the correct amount of liquid had been applied and ensuring a seamless surface once the liquid-applied system had cured. The U/V resistant top coat was then applied to achieve the BBAaccredited 20 year warranty. A single-component aliphatic resin that protects against UV rays, the ARBOFLEX® PU Top Coat creates a flexible, seamless layer in a satin finish, with excellent adhesion and mechanical properties. In addition to protecting against UV rays, the Top Coat also provides resistance to abrasion, stress, weathering and temperature variations, with excellent adhesion and mechanical properties.
For the upstands, parapet walls and vertical surfaces of the planters in the communal outdoor areas, the T&T Roofing Limited team added ARBOFLEX® Thickener to the ARBOFLEX® PU system, providing thixotropic properties for excellent coverage of the vertical surfaces.
Following completion of each roof area, the T&T Roofing Limited team used leak detection technology to check the integrity of the installation. The equipment passed electrical current into the roof build-up, which would trigger an alarm if any water ingress were to be detected. The ARBOFLEX® PU waterproofing system used includes a conductive backing in the form of a foil-faced carrier membrane and vapour control layer, allowing testing for pinholes and porosity in this way using a high-voltage Holliday detector.
Further quality assurance for the installation was underpinned by the collaborative relationship between CARLISLE® and the contractor, with on-site training in the use of the ARBOFLEX® PU system provided by CARLISLE®, along with regular technical inspections.
www.ccm-europe.com
Nationwide Louvre Company manufactures high quality aluminium Louvres, Louvred Doors, Louvred Plant Screens, Acoustic Louvres, Acoustic Screening, Aluminium & Timber Brise Soleil/Solar Shading.
Nationwide Louvre Company offers a full supply and installation service to its customers throughout the UK and have completed a number of projects in the Channel Isles and Europe. The business installs bespoke made to measure quality products on residential, commercial and construction projects.
Nationwide Louvre Company specialise in Brise Soleil and louvred plant screening. Brise Soleil projects are supported with computer simulation software to assess the effectiveness of our products in reducing the effects of solar gain on buildings.
Brise Soleil not only enhances the appearance of a building but will provide a much better living or working environment for the building’s occupants, with the added benefit of reducing glare to help with computer work and will
reduce the running costs of mechanical ventilation and air conditioning.
Our Screening Louvre Systems are used to hide roof mounted plant and equipment and are available in a range of blade shapes and sizes. Supplied in an enormous range of colours and finishes will screen unsightly equipment and enrich the building façade.
Contact T 01922 457204 sales@nlc-louvres.co.uk www.nlcontracts.co.uk
Situated seven degrees west of the Greenwich Meridian, and exposed to some of the harshest weather conditions anywhere in the British Isles, the Hebrides present a challenging location for building projects, prompting a recently-established building company to adopt offsite construction technologies which make full use of the technical and environmental benefits of West Fraser’s SterlingOSB Zero.
70-22’ Systems was established in 2022 by three business partners whose experience encapsulates architecture, education and manufacturing amongst other skills, and who decided to develop their own highlyinsulated, modular timber building system. Growing organically by providing bespoke packages to clients of parent business, Fraser Architecture, 70-22’ has already delivered properties on the Outer Hebrides; and has more than half a dozen schemes of different sizes in the pipeline for the coming year.
The trademarked system has been designed specifically to avoid the need for craneage, due to the inaccessibility of many sites, while the cellular component modules take the form of wall blocks, lintels and beams to span larger openings. The SterlingOSB Zero is CNC machined and assembled in the workshop before being filled with Warmcel recycled paper insulation.
Scotland, using mainly locally sourced softwood from well managed forests.
Significantly, the 70-22’ Systems design personnel were determined from the outset to utilise the West Fraser board because of its formaldehyde free formulation and the fact the material is manufactured in the North of
70-22’ Systems’ co-founder and Commercial Director, Alex Durie, commented, “We use West Fraser’s SterlingOSB Zero to construct our ecological building components, that are prefabricated in our workshop utilising CNC technology to achieve 0.1mm tolerances for each beam and block. It is the ideal material to use as the shell for our components, which are then filled with recycled insulation to achieve a building system that can achieve market leading thermal performance, with a U-value of 0.1 W/ m²k, and excellent air-tightness, while maintaining a breathable floor, wall and roof construction. The added bonus of being formaldehyde-free, OSB enables us to build ecologically, utilising timber grown and processed in Scotland as we aim to limit the travel miles in each of our builds. The OSB produced by West Fraser has performed very well in our structural testing, with our system proving to be 1.6 times stronger than a traditional timber frame –and as our system arrives on-site as a component that is pre-fabricated, pre-insulated and designed for manual handling, it is much quicker to assemble.”
Not only do all of the 70-22’ Systems structures exceed the thermal requirements of Section 6 to the Building
Standards, Scotland, but can also be delivered as a Passivhaus compliant solution where the client or planning consent demand it. In the medium to long term, the business is building a pattern book of standard house types and has plans to establish a pilot plant on the mainland. The company will also be showcasing its system at the Self-Build and Renovation exhibition in Aviemore this autumn.
SterlingOSB Zero is available in a range of sizes and thicknesses up to 22mm as well as a T&G version ideal for flooring and decking applications. The high performance panel product, free of added formaldehyde, has also earned BBA approval and meets the requirements of NHBC Technical.
As is always the case, West Fraser’s experienced technical team is available to aid with product specification, while downloadable data sheets are available at: https://uk.westfraser.com
For further information, call 01786 812921 or visit: https://uk.westfraser.com