FC&A December 2023

FUTURE CONSTRUCTOR & ARCHITECT

ISSUE 166

DECEMBER 2023

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FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

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WELCOME NOTE 2, The Old Stable Block, Crescent Road,

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T O

Faversham, Kent, ME13 7GU Tel: 01795 515288

EDITORIAL Rebecca Kemp rebecca@redhutmedia.com Hannah Woodger hannah@redhutmedia.com P R I N T & D I G I TA L A DV E R T I S I N G Sam Ball sam@redhutmedia.com Jim Moore jim@redhutmedia.com PRINT DESIGN MANAGER Jack Witcomb jack@redhutmedia.com D I G I TA L D E S I G N M A N AG E R Matt Morse matt@redhutmedia.com ACCOUNTS/ CREDIT CONTROL Rachel Pike accounts@redhutmedia.com PUBLISHER Sam Ball sam@redhutmedia.com Te r m s a n d C o n d i t i o n s : Contributions are invited and when not accepted will be returned only if accompanied by a fully stamped and return addressed envelope. No responsibility will be taken for drawings, photographs or literary contributions during transmission or in the editor’s hands. In the absence of an agreement the copyright of all contributions, literary, photographics or artistic belongs to Red Hut Media Ltd. The publisher accepts no responsibility in respect of advertisements appearing in the magazine and the opinions expressed in editorial material or otherwise do not necessarily represent the view of the publisher. The publisher does not accept any liability of any loss arising from the late appearance or non-publication of any advertisement.

Here we are at the closing chapter of 2023. Looking back, the year has been marked by significant events. Notably, Rishi Sunak's U-turn on net-zero policies, the upheaval caused by the RAAC crisis, the lingering effects of last year's revisions to Part L (conservation of fuel and power) of UK Building Regulations, the ongoing decline in housebuilding, the ever-present skills shortage and the mounting concerns about a potential recession in 2024 have all played prominent roles in the year's narrative.

To wrap up the past 12 months, we delve into some of these subjects to provide a comprehensive view of what's been a bustling period for the construction and architectural sector. Firstly, aligning with the theme of regulatory transformations, James Staveley, a Partner in Carter Jonas' planning and development division, offers insights into how recent Governmental adjustments are influencing the evolution of tall buildings. For the full story, turn to page 22. Next, on page 34, Paul Williams, Product Manager at Domus Ventilation, addresses the other prominent economic challenge we've faced throughout the year – the escalating cost-of-living crisis. In this article, Paul explores the role of mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) in conserving energy and, consequently, money.

Finally, we've expanded our December portfolio. Within the construction realm, we are acutely aware of the challenges and adverse project impacts arising from the scarcity of STEM skills. Addressing this shortage demands a collective effort to engage and inspire the next generation of our workforce. While apprenticeships and internships play a crucial role (some of which can be found on our news pages 08-09), others in our industry focus on captivating the younger demographic by transforming museums and educational spaces into sources of inspiration. De Matos Ryan has exemplified this with its creation – 'Wonderlab: The Bramall Gallery', an integral component of the National Railway Museum's Vision 2025 transformation initiative. To learn more about this project, refer to page 14.

On behalf of the entire FC&A team, we extend our warmest wishes for a joyful and festive season. May this Christmas bring you moments of well-deserved rest and reflection, and as we step into the New Year, may it usher in a period of continued growth and prosperity within the dynamic world of architecture and construction.

RED HUT MEDIA

FUTURE CONSTRUCTOR & ARCHITECT MAGAZINE

DECEMBER 2023

fcamagazine fcamagazine fcamagazine  FC& A Magazine

Rebecca

REBECCA KEMP Editor, Future Constructor & Architect

ON THE COVER: Designed by De Matos Ryan, the

©De Matos Ryan

National Railway Museum's brand-new showcase, 'Wonderlab: The Bramall Gallery', is an interactive space and playground for curious minds of all ages.

SEE PAGE 14.

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FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

CONTENTS

NEWS

08 20 22

INDU STRY UPDATE S:

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

VOIC E OF THE INDUS TRY:

Rich Pedley, Segment Manager – Infrastructure Networks at Aliaxis UK, takes a detailed look at hydrogen and its untapped application possibilities.

LEGAL & BUSINE S S :

James Staveley, Partner in Carter Jonas' planning and development team, sheds light on how recent Government changes are reshaping the development of tall buildings.

FEATURES

24

FU T U RE PROO FING BUIL DIN GS :

26

FLOORS , WA LLS & CE ILINGS :

28

DOOR S , WINDOWS & BA LUSTRA D E S :

30

HVAC:

32 34 36

Sebastián Hernández, Building Concepts Manager at Stora Enso, explains how flexible designs and timber materials are transforming the industry to break free from the demolition cycle.

Justin Peckham, Regional Head of Sales (UK and Nordics) for Accoya, offers a perspective on the critical importance of selecting high-quality, durable materials in architectural and construction projects.

Andrew Cooper, National Specification Manager from Senior Architectural Systems, provides a fenestration checklist for compliance and explains how early engagement can help.

The 'world's thermometer' in space has revealed heat leaks from buildings, highlighting the need for energyefficient retrofits. But how can we accelerate this crucial transition? Kas Mohammed, VP of Digital Energy at Schneider Electric UK&I, investigates.

RC I:

Carl Bailey, Regional Technical Manager for Elevate, reveals how technology is transforming the roofing industry.

T EC H NICA L FO CUS:

The cost-of-living crisis has hit hard, but there's hope on the horizon. Paul Williams, Domus Ventilation's Product Manager, explains how innovations like MVHR systems can make a difference.

BU ILD FOCUS : PL A NNING & LOC A L D E V E LOP M E N T:

Emily Hillman, Associate Urban Designer at Pegasus Group, explores whether the latest – in a long line of – design guides is a 'beauty or a beast'.

PORTFOLIO

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WONDE RLA B: THE BR A MA L L GA LLE RY, D E M ATOS RYA N :

Designed by De Matos Ryan, the National Railway Museum's brand-new gallery, 'Wonderlab: The Bramall Gallery', is an interactive space and playground for curious minds of all ages.

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FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

INDUSTRY UPDATES

NE WS I N B R I E F: APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMME WELCOMES 2023 COHORT International building services consultancy CPW has welcomed 16 new recruits onto its 2023 apprenticeship programme, which is being delivered in partnership with regional colleges to train the next generation. Established more than 22 years ago, 17% of CPW’s workforce is currently part of the programme thanks to its commitment to bridging the skills gap and taking on apprentices in all levels of education, including mature students, as well as those already in work. This year’s trainees have joined the Birmingham, Derby, Leicester, Huntingdon, Nottingham and Solihull offices and include specialised apprentices in the lighting, public health and HR teams – a first for the firm as it looks to diversify its offering.

ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE UNDERGOES MBO Calderpeel Architects, established in 1992 by founding Architect, Harry Calder, has undergone a friendly management buyout and is now led by existing Directors Mark Massey, Ewen Miller and Andy Lightfoot. The RIBAchartered practice operates from a studio in Altrincham, Greater Manchester, and is best known for its work in the high-end and complex residential markets. Speaking on behalf of his co-owners, Ewen Miller, Managing Director at Calderpeel Architects, says: “Harry established the business over 30 years ago and has worked hard with us over the last 20 to develop the business to where it is today. We are a very tight-knit and connected team committed to continuing this development."

FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

INDUSTRY UPDATES FC&A ROUNDS UP THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS AND UPDATES. Photo by Lan Dongjie

CHENGDU SCIENCE FICTION MUSEUM OPENS

BY HOSTING WORLDCON Showcasing the city’s contribution to science-fiction’s evolution and popularity around the world, the new Chengdu Science Fiction Museum has opened by hosting the World Science Fiction Convention (Worldcon) and Hugo Awards, the first time the events have been held in China.

ZAHA HADID ARCHITECTS (ZHA)

A

landscapes along the lakeshore, the museum’s design defines nodes of activity connected by pedestrian routes that extend from the city through the surrounding parkland into the heart of the building; creating a journey of discovery that weaves

t the core of Jingrong Lake, Zaha Hadid Architects’ (ZHA’s) new Chengdu Science Fiction Museum is within the Science & Innovation New City of Chengdu’s Pidu District.

Integrating with the natural

Photo by Arch-Exist 8

between indoor and outdoor plazas at multiple levels to link the museum’s exhibition galleries, educational facilities, cafes and other amenities.

Bringing together programmatic and functional clarity while responding to its unique site conditions, the museum appears to float above the surface of the lake.

The fluid forms of its roof radiate from a central point within, emulating an expanding nebula cloud with a star at its centre – transforming the museum into a ‘star cloud’ that disperses energy fields into its many different zones, guiding visitors through a portal that connects our lived experience with our imagination.

Incorporating maximum flexibility to host the widest variety of exhibitions, conferences and events, the 59,000m2 Chengdu Science Fiction Museum includes exhibition galleries, a multifunction hall, a conference centre and supporting ancillary spaces. The sky-lit central atrium and its large window facing the spectacular Xiling Mountain connect the museum’s interiors with its surrounding environment.

Meeting the highest 3-Star standards of China’s Green Building Program, the museum’s design has been developed through detailed digital modelling analysis to maximise efficiencies in composition, site conditions, solar irradiation and structure.

www.zaha-hadid.com

INDUSTRY UPDATES

NEWS IN BRI EF:

Photo by Arch-Exist

NEW INTERNSHIPS WILL PROVIDE VITAL SKILLS FOR THOSE LOOKING TO PURSUE CAREERS IN CONSTRUCTION

PERSONNEL The latest appointments from the construction and architectural industries.

STEPNELL APPOINTS MIDLANDS LEAD TO DIRECTOR

NEW DIRECTOR OF CIVIL ENGINEERING AT PICK EVERARD

LEEDS PRACTICE MAKES FOUR APPOINTMENTS

Adrian Barnes has been promoted to the role of Director at Stepnell following four years as a Regional Director. Since joining in 2019, Adrian has been the leader of the Midlands region. As a newly-appointed Director, he will now continue to grow Stepnell in the Midlands. He will also bring to the board sound strategic thinking, creative ideas and good governance around its structure alongside a wider remit. Adrian says: “I would like to thank the board of directors for appointing me as a Director, and to express how determined I am to take this next step to further push myself and the business to achieve even more success. I have worked hard to oversee and deliver excellence on a number of successful construction schemes, grow and upskill our team, expand our expertise and look after our clients.”

Strengthening its service capabilities and national growth opportunities, leading multi-disciplinary consultancy Pick Everard has appointed a new Director of Civil Engineering. Max Thurgood brings with him 31 years of experience to his new role, with a background in civil engineering construction, including rail, stadia, education, healthcare and housing, as well as spending time in Abu Dhabi, where he worked as a Contract Manager on the Yacht Club and Harbour Masters Office, part of the Yas Marina Racing circuit. An Institute of Civil Engineers (ICE) fellowship member, Max’s responsibilities will be to lead and develop the civil engineering team, growing it nationally as well as fostering innovation and excellence for clients. Max says: “I was drawn to Pick Everard’s values and wanted to be part of its huge growth journey.”

Brewster Bye has expanded its team. Scott Morrison has joined the firm as an Architect and has spent the past five years working for a Harrogatebased architecture practice after graduating from Dundee University with a master’s degree in architecture in 2018.

During his career to date, he has worked on numerous projects in the commercial, retail and residential sectors.

Both Denisa Popeanga and Sam Tipping have joined as Part 2 Architectural Assistants. The pair graduated this summer with master’s degrees in architecture, with Denisa studying at the University of Huddersfield and Sam at Leeds Beckett University. Max Townend has also joined Brewster Bye as a Part 1 Architectural Assistant.

Max graduated this summer with a first-class BA (hons) in architecture from the University of Huddersfield.

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McLaren Construction (Midlands and North) has welcomed four new interns – Apprentice Planner, Tommy Bordicott; Trainee Quantity Surveyor, Robbie Yusuf; Trainee Quantity Surveyor Ellie Marnell and Construction Apprentice, Rhys Collins.

Tommy will be assisting the lead planner on Coventry’s Longwood Close project.

Robbie will be working on site, measuring drawings using Bluebeam (CAD) and issuing revisions alongside producing purchase orders and administrative duties.

Ellie joins the team with an eagerness to learn skills, gain industry knowledge and support on site. While Rhys, will be gaining experience across multiple departments, as well as on site.

HULL’S FIRST ‘REALLIFE’ BRICKLAYING APPRENTICESHIP TRAINING HUB OPENS TO COMBAT SKILLS GAP A new apprenticeship training hub in Bransholme, which will deliver the next generation of skilled house builders in the North of England, has been unveiled by NHBC, the UK’s leading new home warranty and insurance provider. The NHBC Training Hub, which officially opened on 12th October, is in partnership with EN:Able Futures, a flexi-job apprenticeship provider and part of Efficiency North Holdings.

Training 50 apprentices all year round to qualify in as little as 18 months, the facility, which is equipped with classrooms, welfare and catering facilities, will provide apprentices with a realistic working environment and initially focus on bricklaying.

FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

INDUSTRY UPDATES

ARCHITECT IN PROFILE

Meet Colin D’Alton, the Co-Founder and Director at Gray Design, with 30 years of experience. From the Celtic Tiger era in Dublin to founding his own practice, Colin’s journey is a testament to passion and innovation.

Inspired by Frank Gehry, he blends sustainability with creative brilliance.

GRAY DESIGN

COLIN D’ALTON IS THE CO-FOUNDER AND DIRECTOR AT GRAY DESIGN

Please tell us a bit about your career background.

I have been working in various architecture firms over the last 30 years, which includes my own practice for the last 17 years. I worked in Dublin during the Celtic Tiger from 1998 to 2003, where I gained a lot of experience on large commercial projects.

Have you always wanted to pursue a career in architecture?

Yes, I always enjoyed technical drawing during my education and completed a two-week work experience with an architecture practice, which led me to pursue a career in architecture.

Who has been your greatest influence and source of inspiration?

I have always admired Frank Gehry’s work and was lucky enough to attend one of his seminars. The internet is the greatest source of inspiration now, not only for architects but for design in general, as there is such a wealth of inspiration on it.

www.graydesignltd.co.uk FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

What has been your most notable project to date?

There is no one project that stands out for me. There are a lot of details on various projects that I have been very proud of, and they are as simple as a modern extension of a listed building to a large office block.

Every project has different challenges and, therefore, different solutions.

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How do you approach your projects?

Every project is different – if it’s a project for a bespoke dwelling, I get to know the people who will, ultimately, live in the house and try to understand how they enjoy living. What I have learnt is that everybody lives differently, and you, therefore, have to design the dwelling around its users. This also translates into commercial buildings – the key is to design the building around its users.

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

One key challenge is the integration of sustainability in the design process.

Most designers and architects still see such tasks as the responsibilities of the environmental consultants rather than part of their design tasks, and the technology is moving so quickly that it is essential that architects continue their CPDs. What is your favourite building and why?

One of my favourite buildings is the Barcelona Pavilion. For a building to be designed and constructed in the 1920s, it still looks as sharp today against modern designs.

INDUSTRY UPDATES

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

There are many challenges today for architects; one of them would be to convince our clients and developers to carry through with our vision and design and not to fall into the trap of value engineering for a cheaper building, especially as build costs can be so unpredictable.

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

I would say at the minute, it’s probably getting a job; the market is still very volatile, and a lot of firms would be nervous to expand their workforce at a time of uncertainty.

What advice would you give to newly-qualified architects?

The best advice I could give is to get experience. The qualification is one piece of the puzzle, and the next is the experience. If you can’t get paid work, I suggest getting into an office for unpaid experience. I have seen in the past where an architect was on unpaid work experience for the summer, proved themselves to be invaluable and eventually was offered a full-time job at the end of summer.

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

Hopefully, some more large-scale construction projects that are in the early stages currently.

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FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

BUILDING ACCESS

SWIFTCONNECT AND HID COLLABORATE WITH BRITISH LAND TO BRING CONNECTED ACCESS EXPERIENCES Harnessing digital automation technology to transform people’s experiences in its commercial buildings, British Land Company PLC (‘British Land’), one of Europe’s largest listed real estate investment companies, has deployed connected access at its Broadgate, 100 Liverpool Street office building in London. Through a collaboration with HID and SwiftConnect, people can now use their employee badge in Apple Wallet for seamless access at this trophy building with their iPhones and Apple Watches.

HID

B

ritish Land’s mobile access rollout marks a significant shift by leading commercial buildings to double down on empowering people with selfservice, on-demand access to more flexible and high-quality spaces.

Fiona Sawkill, Head of Digital Placemaking at British Land, commented: “Reshaping the way people access British Land buildings fits our vision of modernising office spaces and providing the best experiences for our customers, employees and visitors.

Thanks to technology partnerships with SwiftConnect and HID, we are now able to deliver a seamless access experience while strengthening our security and improving operational efficiency.”

Employees and tenants can add their employee badge to Apple Wallet after an initial set up through the My Broadgate app, developed by Equiem. Using the My Broadgate app makes it easy for users to add their mobile credentials to Apple Wallet without the need for additional app downloads.

Bronny Wilson, Regional Head of Europe for Equiem, explains: “By leveraging technology partnerships with SwiftConnect and HID, we are able to deliver seamless experiences while improving operational efficiency and sustainability for British Land.”

Once added to Apple Wallet, badges are provisioned using SwiftConnect AccessCloud, which brings together mobile platforms and enterprise

www.hidglobal.com FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

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systems that govern physical access.

SwiftConnect’s AccessCloud integrates with British Land’s access control system and HID Origo, a cloud platform that enables the lifecycle management of mobile credentials. The solution also leverages HID SEOS credential technology to deliver an intuitive, private and secure access transaction when a user presents their iPhone or Apple Watch to HID SIGNO and iCLASS SE Readers.

“British Land is a great example of a real estate investment company combining the power of mobile and digitisation with their strategy to streamline and differentiate their properties,” says James Kendall, European Regional Director at SwiftConnect. “As we gain traction in Europe, North America and around the world, SwiftConnect remains focused on equipping building owners and enterprises with the capabilities and best practices necessary to provide an extraordinary experience to users while also maximising their investments in connected access.”

Spencer Marshall, Head of Europe for PACS at HID, adds: “Our commitment to innovation levels up mobile access capabilities to ensure that tenants and visitors enjoy a seamless and secure tapbased experience across all spaces. We are proud to partner with SwiftConnect and British Land, two companies at the forefront of redefining modern office spaces with best-of-breed technologies and unique approaches to PropTech.”

British Land is among a growing number of trophy building owners that are focused not only on user experience, efficiency and security but also on sustainability.

The green benefits of switching to HIDenabled SEOS mobile IDs, powered by the integrated SwiftConnect solution, include reduced waste, less use of plastic, lower energy consumption and higher efficiency for a more positive environmental impact.

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WONDERLAB: THE BRAMALL GALLERY, DE MATOS RYAN

All images: ©De Matos Ryan

WONDERLAB: THE BRAMALL GALLERY OPENS AT THE NATIONAL RAILWAY MUSEUM Designed by De Matos Ryan, Wonderlab: The Bramall Gallery forms an integral part of the National Railway Museum’s Vision 2025 transformation programme. This new, interactive gallery in York embodies the Science Museum Group’s vision to build creative STEM confidence and ignite the engineering curiosity of future generations. It will equip and inspire the target audience of seven to 14 year olds with the skills and aptitudes needed to meet and embrace the potential engineering challenges and opportunities of the future.

DE MATOS RYAN

R

ailways, locomotion and simple engineering concepts hold a special place in children’s imaginations.

Hands-on experimentation and creative exploration will excite and challenge young minds, bringing awareness to sustainability and energy. The gallery’s 18 bespoke interactive exhibits showcase different engineering and railway concepts and processes. Visitors are encouraged to think like engineers and develop skills as they design, build and test in a permissive and playful manner. For example, Feel the Force, designed in conjunction with the National Railway Museum and Unusual Projects, explores design streamlining, drag and force through physically experiencing aerodynamics. These learning opportunities deliver the Science Museum Group’s vision to think big, reveal wonder, FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

share authentic stories and ignite curiosity no matter the visitor’s background, access requirements or level of knowledge.

De Matos Ryan’s design celebrates the iconic railway workshop as an adventure landscape. It communicates engineering phenomena and inspires creative confidence in a safe and stimulating environment. To achieve this, the gallery is conceived as a new ‘engineering’ playground with no prescribed journey.

This encourages self-guided exploration and allows visitors to discover the space at their own pace. The gallery provides opportunities for gatherings, interactions and engagement between visitors and various hubs within the open-plan gallery.

Housed in the former locomotive repair workshop, the scheme draws inspiration from its layered history and authentic, 14

raw interior. A family of new ‘engineering’ timber structures act as screening and layering devices to define zones and create areas of intimacy within the 1500m2 space. These structures are reminiscent of iconic locomotive fragments and have a similar footprint to the size and scale of railway turning circles. Housing the Weston Showspace, the Wallace Learning Space and the engineering reimagined zone, the shape and construction of these structures communicate and celebrate the creative process and language of core railway engineering principles, taking inspiration from key exhibits and concepts throughout the museum. The scheme explores the different forms of motion evoked by railway engineering, particularly the perception of relative motion in relation to static volumes, surfaces, textures and light.

WONDERLAB: THE BRAMALL GALLERY, DE MATOS RYAN

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FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

WONDERLAB: THE BRAMALL GALLERY, DE MATOS RYAN

The Wallace Learning Space draws inspiration from the Ellerman Lines steam locomotive to create a surreal and engaging play on a scale where visitors metaphorically become the steam that occupies the interior of the steam engine. The Ellerman Lines locomotive provides a cut-away glimpse of the internal construction and the inner workings of a steam engine. It powerfully brings to life and visually expresses the magic of how these large-scale locomotives functioned with internally-generated steam power. This concept inspired the design of the space. The ceiling surface is made up of large cardboard tubes lined with acoustic insulation to dampen and baffle the sound to and from the main gallery hall. The space is defined by a cylindrical plywood Douglas fir envelope with an expressed rhythm that is reminiscent of engineering cog teeth.

The exterior feels calm yet subtly dynamic, as though it could rotate, but instead, it is the visitors who circulate around its circular form. The cut-away volume within the main hall provides a theatrical backdrop for the core Demo Bar exhibit.

The Weston Show space derives its form from the asymmetric steam locomotive driving wheel. The Flow Lab is inspired by railway signalling control centres, silent hubs crucial to keeping railways running smoothly, effectively and efficiently. The layout of these has remained relatively constant throughout time, with the focus on large information screens to monitor and carefully coordinate traffic.

The Flow Lab is the third object within the gallery, and this enclosure marks a character change within the space. A large, curved timber screen, with an exposed engineered structure and construction, partially encloses the zone and screens it off from the main hall to manage lighting control. Its concave inner side forms the surface of the Engineering Reimagined digital interactive. Elsewhere, tables and free-standing benches take inspiration from smaller-scale, as-found fragments, such as scaffold structures, trusses and locomotive skeletons, reminiscent of those originally found within the old railway repair workshop.

A sustainably-sourced poplar timber lining skirts the perimeter of the space, which reduces the gallery’s imposing, existing blockwork expanse, adding warmth and a calm background against which the interactives are set. The new, low-level panelling takes inspiration from the existing timber workshop, where timber benches, peg boards and linings were used to hook and hang workshop equipment. The lining gently transforms to incorporate workbenches, seating areas, storage cupboards and viewing portals. Integral to this lining is the application of large-scale graphics, designed by Lucienne Roberts +, emblematic of engineering principles.

These bring the timber panelling to life and highlight adjacent interactives FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

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WONDERLAB: THE BRAMALL GALLERY, DE MATOS RYAN

whose shapes and principles they are inspired by. A calm and limited natural material palette allows the interactives and large-scale art installations to take centre stage within the space.

It was important for the gallery to maintain the patina and texture of the existing workshop and its primary structures.

Imperfections and historical wear and tear are exposed and celebrated. Where possible, the memory, rawness and energy of the building’s historic use have been maintained.

The well-trafficked and functional concrete slab of the workshop floor had developed cracks and its own patina. This robust and industrial finish has been brought back to life by stripping back modern layers of grey floor paint, carefully repairing, polishing and sealing it. Retaining the original slab’s patina, staining and grittiness has delivered a revived terrazzo-like gallery floor finish.

New graphic markings, reminiscent of the old workshop’s signs, define activity areas and thematically correlate to interactives and building structures. Larger-scale original workshop constructions, such as the wheel drop, pits and cranes, have been repurposed to provide the infrastructure that supports the new content. Railway tracks are exposed, while glazed views into the railway track pits have been maintained. New interventions have been carefully stitched into the existing historic building fabric.

Wonderlab: The Bramall Gallery is adjacent to the National Railway Museum’s Great Hall, Open Store and newlyproposed Central Hall. These important connections are maximised to offer exciting views of visual and thematic adjacencies.

Wonderlab’s large-scale openings from the Great Hall and the future Central Hall are fully glazed with minimal framing. At a low level, the transparency is adjusted through the use of playful graphics. These picture windows allow the existing railway tracks to visually extend into the space from the Great Hall and provide carefully-curated glimpses of the activity within the Wonderlab.

To create the 18 bespoke interactive exhibits, a process of testing and prototyping involved more than 1300 individuals, including experts within the rail industry, education, local community groups and members of the public. The Science Museum Group’s Audience Research team conducted 16 months of prototype testing, working directly with families and schools visiting the museum.

Prototyping was essential to make sure that visitors were engaged by and could use and understand the exhibits. The team learned from visitors’ experiences, finding changes that improved the exhibits and ensured that the gallery meets the needs, wants and expectations of audiences. With accessibility at the core of the design, SEND specialists and interest groups were engaged to ensure that the gallery is entirely inclusive and welcoming for all.

www.dematosryan.co.uk FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

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visit www.kemperol.co.uk To find out more about the KEMPEROL® range of products

Tel: 01925 445532 Email: enquiries@kempersystem.co.uk

06/4388

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VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY

HYDROGEN GAS – THE KEY TO NET ZERO?

RICH PEDLEY

With the UK committed to achieving the target of net zero by 2050, Aliaxis is excited to be playing its part in this – through such initiatives as supporting the use of hydrogen within our energy networks. Rich Pedley, Segment Manager – Infrastructure Networks at Aliaxis UK, takes a detailed look at hydrogen and its untapped application possibilities.

ALIAXIS

JOINED ALIAXIS NINE YEARS AGO AS A PRODUCT MANAGER FOR INDUSTRIAL/ FUEL SYSTEMS, MANAGING A BROAD RANGE OF FLUID MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS. HE IS A CIM-QUALIFIED MARKETING PROFESSIONAL AND, DURING HIS CAREER, HAS GAINED EXTENSIVE PRODUCT MANAGEMENT EXPERIENCE WITHIN THE INDUSTRY.

FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

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nleashing the full potential of hydrogen gas will transform the way in which the world operates. Already used in a multitude of applications, including refining petroleum, treating metals, processing food and producing fertiliser, it may well become a leading fuel of the future powering our vehicles and heating our homes.

Successful production and implementation in our energy networks may make a gamechanging difference to the ongoing global commitment to reach the net carbon target of zero by 2050. Companies are increasingly looking into creating sustainable and innovative energy solutions, and there is a major focus on the UK gas network to ensure it is ready for the future role hydrogen will play as a primary energy source.

Vast sums of money are being invested by Governments and commercial companies around the world in a bid to achieve the ‘holy grail’ of utilising an energy source that produces only hydrogen and oxygen, thereby emitting no carbon dioxide. There is no doubt that the successful deployment of hydrogen will become an everimportant economic force as its environmental and commercial benefits are fully realised.

Companies across Europe (including Aliaxis) have signed up to the European Clean Hydrogen Alliance, which was set up in July 2020 to support the “large-scale deployment of clean technologies by 2030”.

The alliance’s focus is on promoting clean hydrogen production and encouraging 20

companies to invest in and accelerate its use and development as part of the EU’s efforts to accelerate the decarbonisation of industry.

During his premiership, Boris Johnson announced in 2021 the ambitious target of doubling hydrogen within the gas network from 5GW capacity to 10GW by 2030. In addition, it was planned to bring forward the introduction of a blend of up to 20% hydrogen into gas distribution networks to 2023 – at this level, no changes are required to the existing gas network.

However, if we are to replace natural gas with 100% hydrogen gas, this may require network and infrastructure upgrades in and around our homes.

Hydrogen can be produced in a variety of forms from various energy sources and is categorised in a variety of colours, including blue, green and grey – each with its own set of characteristics. Green is the most sought-after solution as this is made from 100% renewable energy, but capacity constraints could mean the most likely contributor to a sustainable future in the short-to-medium term is blue hydrogen, produced through the process of steam methane reforming (SMR). Whilst carbon dioxide is created as a by-product, it can be captured and separated underground.

Not only is it an efficient and dependable gas, but the SMR process has a wellestablished track record in the industry and is used within the chemical production and power generation sectors.

VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY

Hydrogen timeline The first phase in the world’s first hydrogen network will provide zero-carbon fuel to 300 homes for cooking and heating. The SGN project is being rolled out in the towns of Buckhaven and Methil in Fife, Scotland, and will bring renewable hydrogen into these homes in 2024. The clean gas will be produced by a dedicated electrolysis plant powered by a nearby offshore wind turbine.

In 2025, there are plans to trial hydrogen within the gas networks of Ellesmere Port and Redcar to provide homes in the area with 100% hydrogen in place of natural gas. Fast forward five years to 2030 and Government plans indicate that the UK will be utilising up to 10GW of hydrogen capacity within our gas networks.

Looking further into the future, a key target is to achieve the first Net-Zero Industrial Cluster by deploying carbon capture and hydrogen technologies by 2040. A decade on from this, it is planned that 20 to 35% of UK energy usage will be met by hydrogen, resulting in lower UK carbon emissions.

Green hydrogen, whilst the cleanest option, as it generates no harmful greenhouse gas emissions, is also the most expensive. For this reason, it is currently not widely used, but this will change as research and development within the industry brings down the costs of production (it can be produced anywhere that there is a source of renewable energy, and so it is not dependent on natural gas availability).

According to a paper published by The European Plastic Pipes and Fittings Association (TEPPFA)*, it is deemed likely that polyethylene pipe systems can be considered for use with both hydrogen-methane-based blends and pure hydrogen gases. TEPPFA's report also refers to test evidence obtained by KIWA Technology.

Experiments for the chemical interaction showed no significant differences between pipes exposed to air and those exposed to hydrogen, while from a material integrity perspective, no negative effects were found.

As a global leader in the manufacturing and distribution of advanced plastic piping systems and being part of the European Green Hydrogen Alliance, Aliaxis is ready to support the energy and utilities sector as we look towards this greener, carbon-friendly and hydrogen-ready future.

www.aliaxis.co.uk/frialen

FOOTNOTE: *TEPPFA report: https://www.teppfa.eu/wp-content/uploads/PP-EX-202109-05Hydrogen-a-potential-future-fuel-gas.pdf 21

FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

LEGAL & BUSINESS

THE IMPACT OF THE BUILDING SAFETY ACT IN REDUCING BUILDING HEIGHTS James Staveley, Partner in Carter Jonas’ planning and development team, sheds light on how recent Government changes are reshaping the development of tall buildings.

CARTER JONAS

JAMES STAVELEY IS A PARTNER IN CARTER JONAS’ PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT TEAM

FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

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ollowing the 2017 Grenfell fire, the issue of fire safety within high-rise residential blocks has come into sharp focus. It had become abundantly clear that the UK needed to update regulations to prevent such a tragedy from happening again.

In summer 2023, the Government announced that the threshold for the introduction of second staircases into new residential buildings would be reduced to 18m, effectively in the region of seven storeys in height. This was an update on announced plans in late 2022 that second staircases would be required in buildings of over 30m. In October, it was revealed that there will be a 30-month transitional period from when the Government publishes and confirms its building safety guidance for second staircases to be introduced.

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So, how will the new regulations impact the development of tall buildings?

The new policy will reduce the sales areas within schemes. Traditionally, developers of residential towers in urban areas aim for at least 80% of a floor plate as ‘saleable’ (individual apartments for sale, as opposed to circulation spaces). With the requirement for a second staircase and the additional corridor area that this necessitates, the ratio of saleable area to circulation space would reduce by approximately 5 to 10%.

In parts of London, on an eight-storey development, this could result in a reduction in gross development value by maybe £1-2m per floor and a total reduction of possibly £15m or more. Clearly, this has a significant impact on the land values anticipated by landowners and could even lead to challenging viability when coupled with other factors, such as escalating build and finance costs and affordable housing.

In instances where land has been purchased at a premium, developers may then look to

LEGAL & BUSINESS

use the requirement for an additional staircase to argue for reductions in the levels of affordable housing from policycompliant levels.

Alternatively, developers may look at options to reduce the height of developments to below the 18m threshold, maintaining the strong relationship between a building’s footprint and saleable area. Whilst this would result in fewer units, it could be that for landowners promoting such schemes through the planning process, a ‘less is more’ approach is sought instead to maximise the land value. Certainly, there would appear to be limited commercial value in pushing to promote a development with a single additional storey, which could result in more units but may introduce a requirement for a second staircase. As such, it is likely that future schemes will either be below 18m or will be considerably higher.

This would then have a knock-on effect on urban councils, which need more housing to support a growing population. Sites that have previously been consented for eight, nine or 10 storeys may no longer be viable.

This would especially impact parts of

Zones 3 to 6 in Greater London. With limited land supply for new residential schemes, there is a preference for taller developments in these locations, where sales values in the region of £650 to £800 per square foot may be anticipated.

Councils in such areas may potentially be forced to look at additional or alternative sites for housing.

Developers who choose to submit a planning application for a lower-height development than previously consented may be criticised for under development, even if such a scheme is demonstrated to be the optimum financially and delivers policy-compliant levels of affordable housing. And whilst some councils may accept a reduction in scale, this will lead to a decrease in CIL revenues, which could impact investment in local services.

There would also be fewer affordable housing units delivered overall as the number of such units is based on a percentage of total units constructed.

The alternative may be for even taller developments than had previously been considered appropriate. This will greatly increase density, which apart from being very controversial, may, in some circumstances, exacerbate social problems.

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There is a strong possibility that the design and density of buildings will change; the days of eight-storey developments could be limited, with a preference for either developments to be reduced to seven storeys or below.

The impact on tight development sites is likely to be greatest. Having once exceeded the height threshold to enable a second staircase to be included as a part of a scheme a developer will likely push the height as much as possible to maintain a gross development value to compensate a reduced gross-to-net ratio. For a scheme on the cusp of the requirement for a second staircase, the developer’s preference would probably be for a decreased height unless they can secure reductions in the levels of affordable housing. The alternative might be for developers to absolutely maximise building footprints and minimise the impact on the saleable area.

Either way, this very significant legislation will change both developers’ approaches to tall buildings and city skylines, too.

www.carterjonas.co.uk FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

FUTUREPROOFING BUILDINGS

MIXED-USE BUILDINGS: THE SOLUTION TO CONSTRUCTION’S FAST-FASHION PROBLEM We might have heard of the ‘death of the high street’, with department stores and generations-old retailers being boarded up. But this has now been overshadowed by something much larger, says Sebastián Hernández, Building Concepts Manager at Stora Enso.

STORA ENSO

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he COVID-19 pandemic changed the working landscape in unforeseen ways. A shift to hybrid and remote working patterns might have been the final nail in the coffin for metropolitan hubs as we know them.

With closures of city-central cafes, gyms, pubs and offices sitting empty, it’s clear that we need to prepare for change and need flexible real estate for this everevolving environment.

This calls for buildings that are built to be flexible and adaptable, allowing investors to maintain the value of their buildings for a longer period of time. As such, flexibility and adaptability have become one of the most vital immaterial assets of our buildings today and can help to solve the problem of fast construction.

Construction’s demolition problem Despite these radical changes, ageold patterns of city-centre construction still wear on, and city dwellers are well accustomed to perpetual building activity. Exterior scaffolding is now part of the furniture. Despite evidence that standards of living and working can change drastically over mere months, construction lags behind in futureproofing its projects.

Around 50,000 UK buildings annually 1 are demolished entirely when they are FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

no longer fit for the purpose that they were initially designed for, and modern, traditionally-constructed buildings tend to spring up in their place. Traditional methods of construction with steel and concrete are significant drivers of CO 2 emissions, and with routine demolitions, this process can happen on a cyclical basis – but that doesn’t mean it needs to or should.

Of course, there are arguments in favour of demolition. Buildings are typically designed and built according to market requirements and standards of the time – and sometimes, these might not fit with the current day. This is particularly pertinent in a post-COVID world, where market requirements and standards are changing and evolving at a higher speed than we can build and re-build.

Ultimately, urban spaces require a more circular approach – we simply can’t afford to be pedalling fast fashion’s equivalent in construction.

Mixed-use buildings of the future So, in light of the climate crisis, we can and should also think about futureproofing buildings from their very initial conception and design. It’s clear that cities are changing. At some point, they will change again, so we should be prepared for the future when building 24

today. By futureproofing what’s built today, investors can maintain the value of assets by reducing the likelihood of near-future obsolescence.

Mixed-use buildings, combining office spaces with hotels or even retail spaces, could hold the key to ensuring that a building is not just built for one use but many. And these spaces within the building itself might shift and evolve over time. Flexibly-configured designs could mean that an office space filled with desks and monitors one year can accommodate a space with comfortable chairs for socialising and collaborative working in the next.

It might also mean that residential hubs are combined with retail outlets, fitness facilities and co-working spaces.

Adaptable buildings aren’t new, but designing a building specifically to last multiple tenancies, lifetimes and generations is where the industry now needs to focus. Without this shift towards a more sustainable, circular construction mindset, we risk missing important decarbonisation targets. We can make buildings more circular; we can re-purpose, even upcycle, that which already exists instead of demolishing if it’s designed right the first time round.

It’s not just the sprawling metropolitan hubs like London that would benefit from mixed-use building development. Smaller cities and towns with fewer buildings – or less land mass – could use the same development to house multiple businesses, local councils, perhaps workshop spaces or youth clubs. The writing is on the wall; it’s time to futureproof building design. Modern construction and materials can create the conditions for us to build with enough foresight to break the demolition cycle. Not

FUTUREPROOFING BUILDINGS

just because it’s unsustainable but because we now have the tools to accommodate as many uses and people as possible.

Such examples are already underway: Stora Enso’s new head office in Finland combines office space with a hotel – perfect for the globally-mobile workforces of today. As perceptions around offices and working conditions continue to mutate, office spaces such as Stora Enso’s could become the blueprint for constructing buildings across the globe.

What makes timber the best for this?

Designing and building for mixed use brings valuable sustainability credentials, particularly when thinking long term.

Timber has a fantastic capacity to sequester biogenic carbon. The longer that this wood stays in the building, without being demolished and built anew, the longer the sequestered carbon stays out of the atmosphere – all whilst more trees grow in forests to sequester even more carbon.

Flexible design aids longevity.

Combining mixed-use designs with sustainable, renewable materials can elevate projects, bringing them to the fore of decarbonisation. And when it comes to materials, timber should be top of the list.

The lightweight durability of mass timber products, like Sylva by Stora Enso, can allow for more open-plan designs built tall and wide. A concrete core and timber frame could mean spacious, flexible environments designed to adapt to the occupants’ needs. With timber also comes the opportunity for offsite construction and prefabricated components with its speed and ease of building, reducing the need for endless cycles of demolition and construction spanning years helping the industry push ahead towards net-zero goals.

We can combine this push to build for today and beyond by making the most of mixed-use design and doing this with wood. Whilst the emphasis should be on building now, we need to be looking ahead to the next 50 years, 100 years and even the next few lifetimes to ensure that buildings aren’t needlessly demolished and emissions aren’t needlessly released.

From offices to retailers, homes to fitness facilities, the opportunities for mixed use are truly endless and, perhaps, even timeless.

www.storaenso.com FOOTNOTE: 1

https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/demolishing-

50-000-buildings-a-year-is-a-national-disgracewbrf09952#:~:text=Buildings%2C%20much%20 like%20electronic%20gadgets,fuel%2Dhungry%20steel%20and%20cement.

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FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

FLOORS, WALLS & CEILINGS

MATERIAL CHOICE: BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE Justin Peckham, Regional Head of Sales (UK and Nordics) for Accoya, discusses the importance of specifying high-quality, durable materials when designing and constructing buildings, so that they are able to stand the test of time.

ACCOYA

All images: Biobased Barn Home in Barneveld, Netherlands. Accoya.

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or architects and building contractors, choosing the right materials to bring a project to life is vital. Significant emphasis is often placed on a building’s functionality, as well as its aesthetic appeal, but possibly the most critical factor is durability. The ultimate goal is to create a building that is sensitive to its surroundings, helps to pave the way towards net zero, and will ultimately stand the test of time.

Recently, we’ve seen a real-world example demonstrating the importance of selecting the right material for a project.

The current ‘concrete crisis’ has seen the forced closure of thousands of schools across the country over fears that they could collapse. These buildings, which had been constructed using reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC), were deemed unsafe because the material had eroded over time due to its porous nature, causing the internal structures to collapse.

The situation caused by the concrete crisis has snowballed and caused farreaching disruption in the education sector. The disappointing fact is that it could have been avoided. So, the question is, how do we prevent situations like this from happening in future?

The cornerstone of building performance The importance of material choice cannot be overlooked. The decision rests on a multitude of factors, including cost, performance and sustainability. It’s critical that the building materials specified for a project work together cohesively as one system to ensure the optimal outcome.

FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

While there are many factors at play, the use of highly-durable materials, both on the interior and exterior of a building, is paramount in ensuring a structure’s longevity and safety. In previous years, the industry has fallen short of ensuring this. In fact, there have been several high-profile instances wherein cost – or aesthetics – have been put above durability and safety.

Needless to say, this is something that needs to change – and fast.

With the recent introduction of the Building Safety Act (BSA), material performance has been under more scrutiny than ever. This updated legislation aims to establish a more effective regulatory and responsibility framework while also introducing clearer standards and guidance when it comes to the material selection, design and construction of our buildings. Within this, the BSA provides additional clarification on responsibilities and accountable people, as well as the requirement for a Golden Thread of Information – meaning that product selection and recording of performance data now play an even more critical role in compliance.

Embracing building surroundings When discussing construction materials for the exterior of a building, it is important to think about the building as a whole; lifecycle included. This means that, in addition to building safety, architects must choose materials based on the purpose and location of the project.

Location can play a pivotal role in this.

For example, in coastal areas, buildings can be exposed to saltwater, extreme 26

weather conditions, high humidity and the risk of erosion and flooding. Therefore, it is absolutely essential that any materials used are highly durable and able to withstand harsh conditions.

There is good news, though.

Technological advances and innovation in material science mean that the performance of many materials has been vastly enhanced and that they are now capable of performing optimally even in the harshest conditions.

For example, in the past, people might have steered clear of using timber on coastal buildings because of the possibility that it could rot or swell, affecting performance. However, innovations in the timber industry mean that this is no longer the case. Nowadays, timber can be modified to significantly increase stability and durability without the use of pesticides. Accoya wood, for example, is modified through a process of acetylation, which boosts the acetyl levels of the wood to prevent water absorption, increasing dimensional stability and durability. In fact, it strengthens the wood to such an extent that it is the only wood in the world to offer a 50-year warranty.

An illustrative example of this was the recent conservation project at Caernarfon Castle. The castle, which is located on the north-west coast of Wales, is a World Heritage Site that required conservation works. This meant it needed a material that would complement the castle’s existing structure whilst also providing world-class performance that could withstand the erosion that can occur when building on the coast.

FLOORS, WALLS & CEILINGS

Accoya was selected because of its durability credentials, as well as its lowmaintenance qualities and the look and feel after it has been weathered. The durability of the wood works perfectly at a busy heritage site such as this one, as not only will it perform well in harsh conditions, but it will also minimise the need for further restoration later down the line.

Two sides of the same coin Choosing materials that last is an innately sustainable choice. When products are designed to be durable, they inherently contribute to the decreasing impact on the environment.

Extending the lifespan of a product and reducing the need for replacements simultaneously decreases the need for constant production and resource extraction, curbing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Thanks to technology and innovation, materials are increasingly being designed with end of life in mind, meaning they are created to be deconstructed, reused and recycled, rather than being disposed of as waste.

This is where certification processes, such as Cradle to Cradle, have emerged as a means of measuring the sustainability credentials of materials and encouraging the infinite circulation of materials and nutrients. This means that many building materials, including Accoya, are now certified as proof of their longevity and potential to be repurposed.

In fact, Accoya is one of the few building materials to receive the prestigious Cradle to Cradle Gold certification.

Looking to the future We know that ensuring the balance between functionality, durability, sustainability and safety of building materials can come with an upfront cost.

But, investing in materials upfront ensures longevity and resistance to wear and tear. This means that, in the long term, the need for frequent repairs and replacements is reduced, which cuts long-term costs and ensures the safety of the end user – while also avoiding the risk of liability issues later down the line.

Ultimately, the choice of durable materials is not just a preference; it is an ethical, legal and financial imperative.

The pressure is on for the industry to enhance building performance and decrease environmental impact. But, we should not see this as a challenge; we should see it as an opportunity to not only do our jobs but to do them better than we ever have before.

For more information on Accoya or to sign up for a RIBA-approved CPD, visit the below website.

www.accoya.com/uk/architects/cpd 27

FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

DOORS, WINDOWS & BALUSTRADES

BY THE LETTER – SPECIFYING COMPLIANT FENESTRATION SYSTEMS Fenestration is an important part of the building envelope and one that needs careful consideration to ensure that aesthetic appeal is carefully balanced with increasingly stringent performance requirements. Andrew Cooper, National Specification Manager from Senior Architectural Systems, one of the UK’s largest privately-owned manufacturers of aluminium windows, doors and curtain wall solutions, provides a checklist for compliance and how early engagement can help.

SENIOR ARCHITECTURAL SYSTEMS

Putting Part L first The recent changes to Part L of the Building Regulations have signalled a huge change for manufacturers and specifiers alike, with new lower U-value targets for windows and glazed doors introduced in June 2022 and made mandatory for all new buildings from June 2023. As the updates to Part L also apply to glazed facades in commercial projects, the first consideration for any specified fenestration systems must be its U-values and thermal performance.

But is less always more? It’s important not to take any quoted U-values at face value but to view them in the context of both operational and embodied carbon. Is the system fully recyclable? Is the manufacturing process energy intensive, and is the carbon footprint around transportation a concern? Aluminium systems can often provide the solution as products, such as those manufactured by Senior, offer cradle-to-cradle recyclability and exceptional durability. Choosing a UK-based manufacturer will also limit FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

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the amount of mileage and carbon generated through the distribution and delivery of products.

Don’t overlook Part O Reducing heat loss from the building fabric has to be balanced alongside the need to reduce overheating, and the recent changes to Part O of the Building Regulations also apply to the specification of doors and windows in new buildings.

Here, design flexibility is key as the size and number of windows permitted in a room are affected by the direction they face and the ratio of the floor space. The use of slim aluminium frames can enhance the permitted glazing elements, and by working with a supplier that can offer low-U-value systems in a wide range of sizes and configurations, more innovative layouts can be considered. This, in turn, allows the risk of overheating to be addressed without having to compromise on the beneficial effects of daylighting and the aesthetic appeal of glazing.

DOORS, WINDOWS & BALUSTRADES

Making Part F a breeze The challenge of reducing heat loss through doors and windows, while preventing overheating, must also be viewed in the context of Part F. This document advises on good ventilation strategies, to boost wellbeing but also to manage the risk of condensation build up, which is a major issue for many homes across the UK. Unless there is another suitable form of ventilation within the room, window systems should incorporate trickle vents to enable continuous and secure background ventilation. Bear in mind that trickle vents will affect the U-value performance of a window, so always be sure to push your supplier to provide the most accurate thermal calculations from the offset.

The very nature of windows means that, of course, they can be opened for ventilation, but here, safety and security must be considered. One popular solution within high-rise housing developments is the use of parallel push windows. With hinges on all sides of the frame, the window can be easily pushed open and yet will remain parallel to the wall.

This enables rooms to be safely ventilated, with the limited opening helping to reduce the risk of falls from the window.

Safety and security for all As well as safety, security is an important part of the specification process, particularly for residential projects. Part Q compliance is required for any accessible window or door, whether this is at ground-floor level

or above roofs and balconies. Many products will also be accredited to PAS 24 or Secured by Design, and although these are both great benchmarks for the security of the system, neither is a guarantee of meeting the requirements of Part Q. So, it’s important to have these discussions early on in the design process.

Ensuring the safety of occupants within a building is vitally important.

This is reflected in both Part B of the Building Regulations and the new Fire Safety Act, which covers the risk to high-rise buildings in more detail.

The layout of doors and windows to provide a suitable means of evacuation is a key consideration, as is the use of fire-rated doors. Again, this should be addressed at the earliest possible stage to ensure that the specified fenestration systems can safely tick all the boxes.

Raising standards in 2024 and beyond The 2022 and 2023 changes to Part L are a forerunner to the Future Homes Standard that is expected to come into force in 2025 and will see energysaving targets tightened even further.

For windows and doors, this will likely require greater use of triple glazing as a way to support the already impressive thermal efficiency of the aluminium frame. For contractors, the new changes mean a greater focus on the installation process to ensure that the specified products work as intended to improve the overall energy efficiency of a build.

Photographic evidence is already 29

required for Part L compliance, but to bridge this ‘performance gap’, we must first address the ‘skills gap’ that is widening every year. There is no quick fix here, but close collaboration with manufacturers to receive hands-on training in the fabrication and installation of these compliant fenestration systems can help.

Supply chain collaboration is undoubtedly the most effective solution to making the specification of more innovative and sustainable products more efficient for all.

www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

HVAC

REVOLUTIONISING BUILDING EFFICIENCY: MAPPING HEAT VARIATIONS TO ACCELERATE RETROFITTING News that a UK space satellite can map the heat of objects 1 on Earth, some as small as 3.5m across, has directly highlighted the need for greater energy efficiency in our existing building stock, says Kas Mohammed, Vice President, Digital Energy at Schneider Electric UK&I. SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC UK&I

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ubbed ‘the world’s thermometer’, images captured by HotSat-1 show bulging areas of orange, representing heat leaking from buildings across cities like Leeds2, Las Vegas and Darwin3.

On first look, the pictures are alarming.

The level of heat loss, particularly amidst the dual climate and energy crises, shows the harsh degree in which energy inefficiency is costing our wallets and the planet. However, it also unearths important data. Information from the satellite will help urban planners and business leaders to identify which buildings are wasting energy and need better insulation and then take remedial action.

But why is this so crucial? Well, the urgent global mission to reduce carbon emissions and transition to a sustainable future means that retrofitting and improving the energy performance of buildings have become pivotal components of the solution.

In the UK, the impetus to retrofit and make buildings more energy efficient is strong.

However, the sluggish pace of progress remains a concern. So, what are the hurdles slowing down progress? And which crucial measures can accelerate the process and help the UK achieve its net-zero goals?

Let’s take a look The urgency of building retrofitting According to the UK Green Building Council, 80% of the buildings that will be occupied in 20504 have already been built.

These buildings account for a substantial portion of the UK’s carbon emissions, FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

making them a significant contributor to climate change. So, it’s crucial that collective stakeholders, including Government bodies, policymakers, building owners and industry professionals, embark on a sustainable refurbishment and retrofitting programme without delay. The good news is that there are already existing technologies that can help promote sustainable operations and save energy costs, and by adopting a three-step approach of strategise, digitise and decarbonise these can be implemented correctly. The first step is to define different levels of technological implementation, impact on emissions reductions and operational disruption in buildings. The next focuses on digitisation and involves measuring and monitoring building energy and carbon with connected data to establish an emissions baseline and record reductions. Then, the final step focuses on decarbonisation.

Here, various technologies and solutions are implemented to reduce emissions.

The UK’s commitment to achieving netzero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 has placed immense importance on making the country’s building stock more energy efficient. Irrespective of this deadline, decarbonising our built environment would dramatically improve the UK’s energy security5 by reducing our reliance on volatile fossil fuel prices.

It will also encourage investment in low-carbon technology, such as heat pumps, heat networks and hydrogen, 30

while lowering home and corporate bills.

Improvements to substandard homes would even lead to positive nationwide health outcomes, with the poor health of occupants due to health hazards like cold, damp and falls currently costing the NHS an estimated £2bn per year6.

To achieve these benefits, the UK needs a major retrofit programme, which includes upskilling workforces to support decarbonisation efforts. It will require immediate investment in skills and leadership, as well as clearly-defined standards towards which we can all strive.

The aim must be to achieve 21% CO2 savings by 2030 and retrofit decarbonisation solutions to 27 million households by 2040 to reduce energy consumption and emissions from buildings in a way that aligns with the larger national climate agenda.

However, it won’t be a simple transition.

First, we need to explore the challenges so that they can be prepared for and overcome.

Obstacles to achieving building efficiency Despite the benefits of retrofitting, several hurdles are slowing progress towards more energy-efficient UK building stock.

An estimated 10% of buildings in London are graded EPC F or G7, meaning these commercial establishments will face a hefty, extensive retrofit bill. To stimulate investment in large-scale commercial retrofit projects, the capital allowance system must be reformed to better support and incentivise long-term investment in carbon reduction

HVAC

and energy-efficiency solutions.

Failing to eliminate financial barriers to energy-efficiency upgrades is a failure to realise the enormous task that the country faces in reaching net zero. So, it must be addressed.

Another of the significant challenges in achieving building efficiency via retrofits is the prevalent lack of know how in the field. Retrofitting for improved energy-efficiency is a complex task, requiring expertise in various building systems, such as heating, ventilation, lighting and fields like architecture, engineering and environmental science.

Retrofitting projects must adhere to building codes and regulations, making expertise essential to ensure compliance and avoid delays and additional costs. Effective project management is also critical, demanding proficiency across planning, coordination and execution to meet timelines, budgets and energy-efficiency goals. Many retrofitting projects involve integrating renewable energy sources like solar panels, calling for expertise in renewable energy systems and their seamless integration into existing building structures to achieve optimal results.

Energy audits and assessments, a critical first step in retrofit projects, also necessitate specialised knowledge to identify energy waste areas and offer specific solutions. So, too, do the cost evaluation of

energy-efficient renovations to maximise energy savings while staying within budget restrictions. And with constant technology breakthroughs, up-to-date knowledge of recent innovations is critical for selecting the most effective retrofitting solutions.

Steps to accelerate building retrofitting To supercharge the transition towards a more energyefficient building stock in the UK, a holistic approach is indispensable. This multifaceted strategy must encompass financial support, education and training, regulatory reform, public awareness initiatives and the integration of cutting-edge technologies for pinpointing areas requiring immediate attention. By combining these elements, the UK can expedite the retrofitting process, reduce carbon emissions and make substantial progress toward its net-zero goals, ultimately creating a more sustainable and energy-efficient future for all stakeholders.

London operator of HotSat-1, SatVu, already plans to launch seven additional spacecraft8.

Let’s hope that by navigating the aforementioned challenges, and following the steps above, the next imagery that the satellites produce will paint a fair greener picture of the Earth’s energy efficiency.

FOOTNOTES: 1

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-67010377

2

https://news.sky.com/story/the-flying-thermometer-which-detects-homes-

leaking-the-most-heat-12867635 3

https://news.sky.com/story/hotsat-1-worlds-thermometer-sends-back-first-

pictures-of-earths-hotspots-in-milestone-for-climate-monitoring-12977923 4

https://ukgbc.org/our-work/climate-change-mitigation/

5

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/

uploads/attachment_data/file/1147457/powering-up-britain-net-zerogrowth-plan.pdf 6

https://www.england.nhs.uk/integratedcare/resources/case-studies/

pioneering-home-alteration-project-between-nhs-and-council-helps-getpeople-home-from-hospital-sooner/#:~:text=NHS%20costs%20could%20be%20 reduced,discharged%20patients%20it%20has%20helped.

7

https://bpf.org.uk/media/press-releases/budget-needs-to-remove-financial-

barriers-to-retrofitting-residential-and-commercial-buildings/

www.se.com

8

31

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-67010377 FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

RCI

ROOFING SOLUTIONS THAT STICK Carl Bailey, Regional Technical Manager for Elevate (formerly Firestone Building Products), explains how advances in technology are helping roofing contractors to overcome industry challenges and improve the bottom line.

ELEVATE

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ngoing economic uncertainty, rising costs and skills shortages are presenting many challenges for roofing contractors. Although there is no silver bullet to overcoming these hurdles, manufacturers in the singleply roofing market are stepping up to help. An increased focus on developing products that are quick and simple to install is enabling contractors to save significant time and money.

In the EPDM market, one of the biggest and most significant innovations is self-adhesive technology. This has resulted in investment across several areas to provide a variety of products, all aimed at providing more rooferfriendly systems.

Self-adhesive tape was one of the first products to launch, enabling roofers to seam membranes more effectively.

This product has removed the need for laborious paint-on applications, which also require additional time to clean

FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

and prepare the membrane and monitor coverage rates. As well as significantly reducing installation times, this seaming method also results in stronger and more consistent seams.

Thanks to advances in technology, a steady flow of ancillary self-adhesive roofing products have since been introduced, such as cured and uncured flashing accessories, attachment strips, pipe flashings and walkway pads.

Evolving innovation As the need for quicker and easier roofing solutions has intensified, so has the focus on self-adhesive technology, bringing further innovation into the industry.

Elevate’s Secure Bond Technology, for example, is factory applied across the entire surface of an EPDM membrane.

When installed, this ensures uniform adhesion from seam to seam, providing an exceptionally-strong roofing system.

For contractors, this technology offers 32

significant productivity and cost benefits.

As there is no need for seam tape, adhesive or waiting for flash off, the EPDM membrane can be installed more than four times faster than a standard system. The factory-applied adhesive also makes the membrane much easier to install, making it suitable for roofers with varying levels of experience.

Meeting demands As the popularity of self-adhesive technology rises, manufacturers are continuing to innovate, providing the roofing industry with simpler, quicker and more cost-effective solutions. Not only is this helping roofing contractors overcome industry challenges, but it is also providing building owners with highly-durable solutions that will protect their properties from water ingress for many more years to come.

www.holcimelevate.com

RCI

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FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

TECHNICAL FOCUS

MVHR: MAXIMISING ENERGY EFFICIENCY The cost-of-living crisis has been with us since late 2021 and, whilst predicted to ease in 2024, is unlikely to fully be over until real wages catch up with prices, which, according to the Resolution Foundation’s annual Living Standards Outlook for 2023, won’t be until 2027, says Paul Williams, Domus Ventilation’s Product Manager.

DOMUS VENTILATION

Energy prices The Office for National Statistics' (ONS) latest figures 1 have shown food and energy prices rising markedly over the past year, particularly gas prices.

Cushioned to some extent by OFGEM’s Energy Price Cap and the Government’s temporary Energy Price Guarantee, 2024 forecast prices are still considerably higher than pre-2022 levels. Typical bills under the October to December 2023 price cap FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

will still be more than 50% higher than in winter 2021/22. Furthermore, it’s pretty much impossible to tell for certain if energy prices will come down, not least because wholesale energy prices are affected by global issues, such as the war in Ukraine. For large swathes of the population who did not experience the last serious energy crises, which struck in the 1970s, the steep hike in their energy bills has been a shock, to say the least.

34

Energy-saving measures The one thing we can say with certainty when it comes to domestic energy prices is that people across the UK are feeling the pinch. Any means of reducing energy usage and, therefore, bills is to be welcomed. For consumers, there’s lots of advice about how to save energy at home, from not using tumble dryers through to improving insulation and draughtproofing doors and windows.

TECHNICAL FOCUS

MVHR’s role in saving energy Whole-house mechanical ventilation systems in the form of mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) largely avoids this scenario by using a heat exchanger to recover the heat in stale air from wetrooms and transferring it to the incoming fresh air, which is then filtered and distributed within the home. The Domus Ventilation HRXE MVHR range uses a highly-efficient heat exchanger, which is capable of recovering up to 95% of the heat from the waste air stream.

Whilst MVHR systems aren’t a replacement for heating systems, they help reduce the heating load required from that system, reducing energy usage. The Centre for Sustainable Energy estimates heating costs can be reduced by around 25% 2. The cost to run an MVHR system obviously varies depending on the size of the property, building fabric, lifestyle and occupancy and the energy tariff etc., but they are inexpensive to run.

Maximising MVHR energy efficiency To ensure maximum energy efficiency is gained from an MVHR system, there are certain aspects that need to be taken into account, from specification through to installation and ongoing maintenance.

Firstly, it’s vital to correctly size the MVHR system for the property so that it neither under or over ventilates. The former means it won’t deliver the ventilation required under Building Regulations and will be noisy as the fan works overtime to cope. The latter will not be energy efficient.

When installing the system, be sure to use good-quality ducting that has been designed to work in harmony as part of that system and has been third-party tested for end-to-end system performance, as has all Domus Ventilation ducting. For maximum efficiency, I recommend MVHR systems be used with rigid ducting in larger sizes and that all duct connections are sealed and taped. This will make for low air resistance, which is important for energy efficiency. Also, on the ducting front, be sure to use ducting insulation where the ducting passes through unheated areas and voids, such as loft spaces and on the intake and the exhaust, as required under Building Regulations. Do not use standard building insulation materials as they are unlikely to meet the minimum duct insulation standard, which is the equivalent of at least 25mm of a material having a thermal conductivity of ≤0.04W/(m.K); specialist duct insulation, such as Domus Thermal will.

When installation is completed, commission the MVHR system accurately. Any mistakes here will result in over or under ventilating, and all the work that has gone into designing and installing the system correctly will be compromised.

MVHR systems, when in operation, need very little attention, but the filters do need to be replaced. We recommend they are inspected every six months and replaced annually to ensure they continue to perform efficiently. In most cases, this is a very simple task that can be performed by the resident via the front access panel of the MVHR unit.

These will help shave pounds off their bills, but to have any real impact on energy usage, we need to change how we build our homes in the first place, making them more thermally efficient.

Changes to Building Regulations have certainly been pushing towards this, leading to more airtight homes and a raft of other measures to make our homes thermally fit for the future.

Of course, that has also meant more stringent ventilation is required to avoid overheating in the summer months and to ensure better quality indoor air. Changes to Building Regulations ‘Approved Document F, Volume 1: Dwellings’ (ADF1) has considerably increased minimum ventilation rates across all sizes of properties, making whole-house mechanical ventilation systems the most proficient option; in the case of larger properties with minimum ventilation rates up 43l/s, they really are the only option!

These are to be used in place of the more traditional ventilation methods, such as trickle vents and extractor fans, which are not only able to deliver the higher airflow rates required but are also responsible for dissipating around 30% of the energy delivered to buildings the International Energy Agency calculates.

Conclusion An MVHR system alone isn’t going to mean residents can switch their heating off in the depths of winter, but enabling them to shave up to a quarter off their heating bill will most certainly help now in the cost-of-living crisis and in the future.

When you combine this with the improved indoor air quality an MVHR system brings, it’s a winning combination.

www.domusventilation.co.uk

FOOTNOTES: https://www.ons.gov.uk/economy/inflationandpriceindices/articles/costofliving/

1

latestinsights https://www.cse.org.uk/advice/mechanical-ventilation-with-heat-recovery/

2

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FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

BUILD FOCUS: PLANNING & LOCAL DEVELOPMENT

BUILD FOCUS:

PLANNING & LOCAL DEVELOPMENT

Emily Hillman, Associate Urban Designer at Pegasus Group, explores whether the latest – in a long line of – design guides is a beauty or a beast.

Pegasus Group has been involved in the redevelopment of Heyford Park for over 15 years, providing a multidisciplinary service at all stages of the planning process, including the design coding process

WILL LOCAL DESIGN CODES CUT THROUGH NATIONAL CONFUSION? Until CABE was dissolved in 2011, its design guidance formed a central reference point for architects and urban designers up and down the country. Yet since its merger into the Design Council, no consolidated replacement has clearly emerged, despite the Government almost continually producing resources. It seems the sheer number of new releases has left the industry confused as to how it all fits together.

PEGASUS GROUP

Where do local design codes fit in?

At first glance, local design codes (now required through NPPF) appear sensible.

But how does this latest addition to a rapidly-increasing back catalogue fit into the bigger picture? And how are LPAs getting on in producing them?

For those not au fait with the reams of national design guidance, here are the highlights: The broad brush National Design Guide (2019) was followed by Living with Beauty (2020), Building for a Healthy Life (2020), Building with Nature (2021) and Streets for a Healthy Life (2022). The Government also published the National Model Design Code (2021), intended to guide LPAs in producing their own codes.

Though, curiously, it doesn’t mention BHL or SHL. At best, these documents overlap in scope.

At worst, they repeat, compete and confuse.

And practitioners on both sides of the table are left deciphering what weight it all has. So, while some LPAs have prepared their own code – starting with the 25 Pathfinder teams – others stipulate compliance with the NMDC or are silent on the matter.

With so many resources competing for attention, the industry is at risk of FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

information overload and confusion.

Frankly, it’s the opposite of what the resource-stretched and overburdened planning system needs.

Challenges facing the delivery of local design codes Anything that provides certainty and clarity about what form development should take is a positive. But as the Governmental department that’s been the hardest hit by austerity measures, LPAs largely don’t have the resources to create their own code. Instead, most LPAs use the NMDC as a checklist, which was never the document’s intention.

More than that, there is a reluctance to deviate from national standards. LPAs know too well that when viability margins are fine, affordable housing is the first to go. LAs with a chronic need for affordable housing may, therefore, be less inclined to raise the design bar beyond nationally-accepted standards.

Can design codes help improve decision making?

We all know how emotive design can become, and it is anything but objective. So it stands to reason that a robust local design code that offers clarity from the outset – and 36

EMILY HILLMAN IS AN URBAN DESIGNER AT PEGASUS

GROUP WHO ADVISES HOUSEBUILDERS AND DEVELOPERS ON HOW TO ACHIEVE HIGH-QUALITY PLACES THAT WILL MEET PLANNING REQUIREMENTS

that decision makers support and stick to – will speed up decision making and keep developer costs under control.

Plus, design codes should help councils with a lack of in-house design expertise and help committee members understand and get on board with a design vision.

But there are risks, too A design code could easily become over prescriptive going far beyond its remit, delivering pastiche instead of innovation.

And it’s not just local codes that become over prescriptive. NPPF now requires every new street to be tree lined, yet this may not always be the best design response. And if it displaces 150 potential new homes, there will be bigger implications elsewhere. Who decides what takes priority?

Delivering true quality in design requires joined-up thinking across departments and clear communication with the respective highways, landscape and urban design consultants.

The findings from the Pathfinder Programme revealed more codes focused on town-centre locations than the originally-intended focus of new housing developments. Perhaps this is unsurprising as urban extensions inherently have less

BUILD FOCUS: PLANNING & LOCAL DEVELOPMENT

Change in Governmental department budgets. Source: PESA 2014, Table 1.11. Accessed via Centre for Cities. existing built form and character to draw upon than already-established, built-up areas, making producing a design code more difficult. But these difficulties mean that these are the areas that most require a code.

Key to all this is having sufficient resources. Pathfinders said they would have benefitted from dedicated resources and needed significantly more support and expert guidance on how to produce codes.

Pegasus Group prepared the Heyford Park Design Code. The Framework Plan provides a set of key regulating design principles and fixes, with which the details of design proposals must accord.

Will local design codes deliver distinct places?

How different one local design code ends up being from another remains to be seen, particularly if most LPAs revert to the NMDC. But at Pegasus, we are convinced that there are some aspects of placemaking and design that cannot – and should not – be coded at a local level.

Attempting to code every design decision would be as impossible as it would be undesirable. Market conditions change, and developers need the flexibility to be able to respond. Codes that dictate mix and unit size risk producing unmarketable developments that can’t be sold or simply don’t meet local need. The better way to achieve distinct places is to allow the market to dictate these elements of design.

Will local design codes deliver better places?

For us, it’s simple. Quality design happens when you focus on good placemaking and offer clear guidance that cuts through confusion.

Local design codes could help achieve this – if they are properly funded and resist

overprescription. But the Government’s propensity to change direction, depending on the political landscape and its preoccupation with pushing out yet another piece of design guidance, isn’t going to help us reach net-zero targets and isn’t going to create better places.

At a time when the Government is failing to give the industry the clear guidance it needs, we want to be transparent with our clients. Our Future Places document is not a design code but a way of thinking about placemaking that offers a checklist of principles to 37

consider. It’s our manifesto of what ingredients we think all future places should entail.

In it, we encourage the developer to consider legibility, connectivity, biodiversity and people. Whether or not these things are required in policy – and recent political U-turns in biodiversity net gain and low-traffic neighbourhoods remind us how unreliable national policy can be – these elements will always give place longevity and a successful future.

www.pegasusgroup.co.uk FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

FLOORS, WALLS & CEILINGS

FIRST UK MAPECRETE JOINTLESS FLOOR SYSTEM INSTALLED IN THE UK Mapei UK’s first Mapecrete jointless floor system has been installed at 'P1 The Plasterers One Stop Shop & Plastering Superstore' in Cheltenham.

MAPEI

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he seamless finish was installed over the 440m 2 floor area, which will be used as new warehouse space. Concrete was supplied by Flowmix and pumped by MaxPump. Suitable for all environments – from commercial and industrial to residential – the Mapecrete system provides enhanced durability, reduced maintenance and a fasttrack installation.

Fibre-reinforced concrete (FRC) jointless slabs represent a significant advancement in concrete technology, offering numerous benefits over traditional reinforced concrete (RC) slabs. The Mapecrete FRC jointless system is based on a shrinkage-compensated concrete technology where contraction is compensated by restrained expansion through structural reinforcement. The modular system consists of four Mapei products that work in synergy to create a jointless finish. They include Dynamon

XTend W300 N, Mapecure SRA 25, Expancrete, Mapefiber ST42 and Mapecure E30.

Whilst RC slabs are jointed to assist in controlling cracking, FRC jointless slabs contain fibres within the concrete mix to enhance performance and reduce cracking and spalling. The slab’s increased durability provides increased load-

bearing capacity and a greater ability to withstand heavy loads and high traffic. As well as reduced maintenance, further cost savings result from reduced downtime and repairs and from a less labourintensive installation. The jointless system is also more resistant to environmental factors, such as freeze-thaw cycles.

www.mapei.co.uk

info@mapei.co.uk

STYLE DIVIDES SPACE AGAIN FOR PRESTIGIOUS LONDON ETC. VENUES FACILITY

LEVIAT ANNOUNCES LAUNCH OF ‘INDUSTRY INSIGHTS’ SERIES

Having previously divided the first-floor conference facility when etc.venues initially moved into 155 Bishopsgate, London, Style was asked to add further space flexibility when the company recently expanded into the sizeable second-floor area. Working with Synergy Architects and contractor KPS Partnership, Style recommended installing a single, 21m-long Dorma Huppe Variflex moveable wall down the length of the main conference space. A further five Variflex walls were then installed evenly spaced throughout the room, allowing individual meeting rooms to be created as demand dictates.

Maintaining natural light throughout the space, pass doors are all fully glazed, with an adjacent panel also being fully glazed in each instance. For added wow factor, solid panels feature eye-catching graphics. The new Variflex moveable wall arrangement enables etc.venues to host an extensive combination of meetings by closing off each area into smaller meeting rooms, opening up multiple rooms into one larger meeting area or moving all walls away to create a vast openplan conference/exhibition space.

Leviat has launched its new Industry Insights series, which examines various topics and issues facing the industry and aims to provide clear, informative content. Featuring a white paper and in-depth video interviews, the series brings clarity to the evolving regulatory landscape and the necessary drivers for change.

The video series begins with the perspective of three leading industry bodies on the regulatory landscape and how they drive change. Dr Gavin Dunn, Chief Executive of the Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE), discusses his key role in developing the Future Homes Standard and whether the industry is ready to meet 2025 targets. Eve Livett, Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Brickwork Contractors, discusses the significance of changes, such as Brexit and more stringent Building Regulations, and the demand for brick in new buildings and homes. Leviat has also interviewed its staff members to gain perspectives on broader issues. To gain further insight into the importance of regulatory compliance, Leviat’s white paper, ‘Bringing Clarity to Regulatory Changes’, looks at the current landscape, what new legislation means for structural components and the responsibilities of those that use them.

STYLE

01202 874044 FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

LEVIAT

www.style-partitions.co.uk sales@style-partitions.co.uk

www.leviat.com/en-gb/industry-insights 38

FLOORS, WALLS & CEILINGS

The Yoko Ono Lennon Centre in Liverpool (Architects’ Choice)

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2023 BRICK AWARDS This year’s Brick Awards, the Oscars of the clay brick industry, celebrated the very best of brick architecture in the glamorous surroundings of the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London’s West End. 600 guests, from architects and developers to brick contractors, heard Architect, Writer and TV Presenter George Clarke unveil a series of outstanding projects across 17 hotly-contested categories.

THE BRICK AWARDS

The Supreme Winner of the 2023 Brick Awards, Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings

www.brick.org.uk/brick-awards

0207 323 7034 39

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he glittering awards were organised by the Brick Development Association, whose Chief Executive Officer, Keith Aldis, commented: “This was a memorable evening.

We celebrated some stunning, cutting-edge projects, demonstrating both the versatility of brick and the vision and imagination of architects and developers from the UK and further afield.

“We were incredibly grateful for both the volume and the quality of the projects entered for this year’s awards. The standard was superb, and selecting the winners in every category was a very difficult task. This year, some exceptional projects did not even make the shortlist, but the result was that we showcased some truly magnificent entries.

“We were especially pleased this year to welcome the accomplished and charismatic television personality George Clarke as our host. George’s presenting skills and his deep understanding and appreciation of the built environment proved to be a tremendous combination, and his quick wit held the attention of the large and lively audience.”

Mr Aldis added: “These awards are an annual reminder of how important it is to celebrate the humble clay brick. In the world of construction, clay bricks stand out as a symbol of enduring strength and timeless elegance.

They offer exceptional structural integrity, providing a robust foundation for buildings and ensuring durability over time. Their thermal mass properties regulate indoor temperature, reducing energy consumption and contributing to a more sustainable environment.”

The Supreme Winner of the 2023 Brick Awards was Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings, which also triumphed in the Sustainability and Craftsmanship categories. The 225-year-old Grade 1-Listed building has been restored to its former glory after 30 years of dereliction and has now been safeguarded for the next 100 years. The judges commented: “The magnificent restoration of Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings is a most worthy winner of this year’s Supreme prize. The community engagement and the application of new brickwork into an old building are exemplary.” The architecture firm was Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios.

Other notable winners on the night were the Yoko Ono Lennon Centre in Liverpool (Architects’ Choice); the Becontree Estate in Dagenham (Small Housing Development); Kindred House in Croydon (Large Housing Development); Brick Tribute to Queen Elizabeth II in Southampton (Innovation) and the International Rugby Experience in Limerick (Worldwide).

Mr Aldis concluded: “All the entries on the night boasted memorable stories and designs, which have made a lasting mark on their immediate environment. We are all part of a proud team that highlights and promotes all that is great in the UK’s built environment, and this year’s awards were a joyful recognition of that.”

To view the full list of the 2023 Brick Award winners and shortlisted projects, please visit the below website.

brick@brick.org.uk FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

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SPECIFYING UNDER SCRUTINY: RAINSCREEN SYSTEMS THAT PERFORM AS DESIGNED

Last December, Part B (fire safety) of the Building Regulations (England and Wales) banned the use of combustible materials in certain build ups, such as rainscreen facade systems, of residential buildings between 11 and 18m. Materials with Euroclass A1 or A2,s1-d0 reaction to fire classification must now be used unless a full-scale fire test to BS 8414-1 and -2 has been undertaken. The Building Safety Act has also introduced project ‘Gateways’ to ensure specification integrity is maintained from design through to build.

KNAUF INSULATION

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ith this new level of scrutiny, it’s crucial that buildings deliver the required performance not just on paper but in the real world too.

For rainscreen applications, the simplest solution is to specify noncombustible products, like Rocksilk RainScreen Slab. It has the best possible Euroclass A1 Reaction to Fire Classification and is also BBA certified for the broadest range of build ups and the widest range of thicknesses of any rainscreen solution on the market.

But insulation doesn’t exist in isolation; it must interact correctly with other systems in the cavity.

That’s why Knauf Insulation developed Rocksilk RainScreen FFCB, the only cavity barrier that can be fixed to the face of the sheathing insulation in masonry facades.

Because the insulation doesn’t need to be cut post installation, it’s quicker and easier to install correctly, reducing the risk of gaps and compromised performance.

Products like these – developed with the real world in mind – help you to create buildings that perform as designed.

www.knaufinsulation.co.uk/contact-us

RENSON UK’S LOUVRES HELP REVIVE BRISTOL’S RICHMOND BUILDING TO ITS FORMER GLORY

Leading ventilation louvre specialist Renson UK has contributed to the regeneration of Bristol’s Richmond Building, helping return the iconic structure to its important role as the city’s university’s student union in the affluent Clifton suburb.

RENSON UK

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uilt in 1965, the Richmond Building was built to meet the recreational and social needs of an expanding student population living away from home – but over the last 50 years, following a series of ad-hoc changes to the interior, it had become cluttered and inflexible.

Architect practice Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios was tasked with transforming the building into a welcoming, accessible, inclusive and environmentally-efficient space, which involved leaving the existing concrete soffits exposed to provide thermal mass to help regulate internal temperatures and allowing a shift to natural ventilation by incorporating a new glazing design combined with a new layout.

www.renson.eu/en-gb/for-professionals/contact FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

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The building’s transformation needed to be approached with care not only for its architectural significance as a Modernist building but also for the Georgian setting of the Clifton conservation area.

For this project, Renson UK supplied its 431-RC2 surface-mounted, burglarresistant and barrier-load-tested louvres with intensive ventilation, known for their use in schools, student accommodation and shops.

Entirely assembled of aluminium profiles with all connective pieces in aluminium and stainless steel, 431RC2 louvres have a 33.3mm blade pitch, a 2.3 x 2.3mm 305 stainless-steel insect mesh, 40.5% physical free area and are mounted by means of 4.2 x 3mm A2 burglar-resistance screws.

RCI

JOAN FERRER IS THE UK & IRELAND COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR AT RAVAGO BUILDING SOLUTIONS

THE HIDDEN SUBTLETIES OF U-VALUE CALCULATIONS Calculating prospective U-values is a routine part of the building process, so you could be forgiven for not giving all that much thought to the intricacies.

However, the slightest change to certain variables can have a significant impact, and mistakes can come back to haunt us. Nobody wants to discover their finished building cannot achieve its intended thermal performance, and perhaps even finding that this shortfall scuppers an attempt to attain Passivhaus certification, says Joan Ferrer, UK & Ireland Commercial Director at Ravago Building Solutions.

RAVAGO BUILDING SOLUTIONS

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o, you have sent your specification off to building product manufacturers asking for a U-value calculation using their product. They are aware of every aspect of your build up, meaning the only variable in their U-value calculations should be the thermal performance of the insulation, right? Unfortunately, individuals performing calculations have a degree of latitude in some areas despite standards and best practice advice on producing U-value calculations, making it difficult to achieve a true like-to-like comparison.

The impact of ground types Let us consider the case of groundbearing floors – the thermal properties of the underlying ground can have a notable impact on the thermal performance of a build up. It is, therefore, important to ensure that the U-value calculations for competing insulation products have been compiled using the same ground type to allow you to make an informed decision. To this end, you should always provide the ground type (if known).

BS EN ISO 13370:2017 states that there are three categories of ground type: CATEGORY

DESCRIPTION 1 2 3

Clay or silt Sand or gravel Homogeneous rock

The standard states that when the ground type is unknown, it should be assumed to be category 2. While tools exist to help produce U-value calculations, some default to using category 1, so those performing the calculation need to ensure this is changed.

THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY 1.5W/mK 2.0W/mK 3.5W/mK

To demonstrate the importance of using a consistent ground type, let’s look at an example build up involving 100mm of XPS insulation on a groundbearing slab with a P/A of 0.3. In this scenario, an XPS board with a thermal conductivity of 0.031W/mK results in a

www.ravagobuildingsolutions.com/uk/en

41

U-value of 0.20W/m 2K when calculating ground type 2. Meanwhile, a board with a thermal conductivity of 0.034W/mK can achieve a U-value of 0.19W/m 2K if we use ground type 1. Unless you were checking for the difference in ground type, you would think that the board with higher thermal conductivity was the superior solution.

What elements should be included?

BS EN ISO 13370:2017 is also ambiguous in accounting for the thermal properties of some elements of a ground-bearing floor. While it is explicit that the hardcore below a concrete slab should not be included, it states the “thermal resistance of a dense concrete slab may be neglected”, leaving it to the individual performing the calculation to decide. This decision is quite significant. Typically, the inclusion or exclusion of the concrete slab’s thermal resistance will cause a variance of 0.01 to 0.02W/m 2K. The 2019 edition of Conventions for U-Value Calculations (BRE BR443) provides best practice advice to complement the standard. At first, it is definitive, stating: “It is recommended for most calculations that dense floor slabs (≥ 1800kg/m³) and floorcoverings such as vinyl or carpets are not included in the calculation,” but frustratingly, it immediately reintroduces the ambiguity of the standard by saying “it is permissible to include them if their properties are adequately defined”. It is, therefore, important to check exactly what elements have been included in individual U-value calculations before comparing them.

technical.uk.rbs@ravago.com FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

DOORS & WINDOWS

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CUTTING-EDGE INVESTMENT AT CRITTALL WINDOWS

Crittall has become the only steel window manufacturer with fully-integrated business management, order processing and fabrication systems following the completion of a project to introduce state-of-the-art software and machinery.

CRITTALL WINDOWS

www.crittall-windows.co.uk

he installation of KLAES product configurator software and two new CNC machines will streamline business operations from quote and initial order through to manufacture and delivery, cutting out time-consuming processes and paperwork. The result will be increased output, productivity and efficiency, as well as new products brought to market more speedily.

“This investment in KLAES software and additional CNC machinery responds to increased demand for our thermally-broken steel windows and doors as well as our Innervision internal screens,” says Crittall Windows’ Managing Director, Russell Ager.

The technology reduces lead times, makes data accessible across the business and revolutionises the tracking of orders. It also feeds into the company’s advanced enterprise resource planning (ERP) software that controls all aspects of the business, including finance and inventory. Once an order is placed, the raw materials required can be ordered automatically.

The combination of CNC machines – now five in number – with the new software also aids product development, dramatically increasing the speed – in months rather than years – by which new windows and doors can be brought to market.

Creating a prototype from an initial design used to involve time-consuming, not to say costly, retooling, but now a model can be simply produced as with a 3D printer.

Ager promises a number of new products and existing product enhancements coming forward later this year.

01376 530800

hq@crittall-windows.co.uk

CONCEALED AUTOMATION OPENS DOORS TO ZARA CONCEPT STORE IN LONDON TORMAX

TORMAX was recently contracted by Permasteelisa (UK) to install its iMotion 1302.KI operators to the eight sets of swing doors that deliver seamless access into the new Zara concept store in the world-renowned Battersea Power Station development. With a focus on clean lines and contemporary aesthetics, the door drives are discreetly hidden within each door lintel. “TORMAX is a pioneer in the realm of invisible automation thanks to the meticulous design of our iMotion high-torque motors,” says Simon Roberts, Managing Director of TORMAX UK. “Having eliminated the parts known for wear and tear, maintenance requirements are minimised, and an extended lifespan can be expected.

This technology allows us to offer two concealed automation solutions. The iMotion 1401 operator is situated within the floor below the door, whilst the 1302.KI is positioned within the lintel.” The multiple angles of the glass and metal-fronted exterior blend in with the urban plan of the complex, with the TORMAX automatic swing door operators providing welcoming access from Electric Boulevard, the pedestrianised high street outside the power station.

A STEEL WINDOW SURVEY FROM ASWS WILL SAVE TIME AND MAY HELP SECURE THE TENDER ASWS

ASWS is offering a valuable survey service to property owners, contractors and architects. ASWS has already completed eight surveys in 2023 across London, including Mayfair, Haringey, Marylebone and a few on Regent Street and Oxford Street.

Known for their large, prestigious projects in the capital, like Battersea Power Station, The Whiteley, BBC Bush House and Hackney Town Hall, part of ASWS’ company ethos is the continual support and guidance for clients. ASWS has seen a rise in the number of landlords and architects employing the company’s services to obtain detailed, expert guidance they can submit with tender information packages to help them secure accurate project costs for their projects. In addition, several main contractors utilise this service to assist in offering all options of refurbishment and/or replacement to their clients.

With a greater emphasis on planning, a good facade scheme can go a long way for a contractor or architect in creating a good relationship with local planning authorities.

0208 665 5335 FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

www.asws.co.uk info@asws.co.uk

01932 238040 42

www.tormax.co.uk sales@tormax.co.uk

DOORS & WINDOWS

THE SHAPE OF GLASS

once the panels have been cut to size, we use a skill drill, or a specialised piece of equipment known as a forvet machine, to pre-drill each one to fit the exact specification of the fixing system to be used. Both these drilling techniques allow us to create the apertures, which allow partitioners and balustrade experts to align and install each panel quickly and easily on site.

However, holes and notches are not the only prerequisites for finished glass panels, as not all are used in standard fitting systems. Not every panel is required to have straight edges and right-angled corners, especially in refurbishments, restorations and conversions of historic properties into dwellings. In these projects, unusual shapes are often called for. Equally, architects no longer assume that buildings should be based on right angles, so the challenge is to fit ever more complex structures and apertures. Fortunately, this makes life more interesting for the glass processor.

Using CNC (computer numerical control), we have had the technology for many years to cut precise shapes to fit any aperture, including irregular shapes, so glass can even be used to link a semidilapidated historic property with a new extension, bringing the entire property back to life.

Not all projects involve standard-shaped, stock sizes of glass. Fortunately, with modern glass processing technology, glass can be cut to any shape and prepared for easy installation, as Susan Sinden, Commercial Manager for glass processing expert ESG Group, explains.

ESG GROUP

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nce they have chosen their ideal glass product, which, thanks to modern interlayer technology, may have several added characteristics – such as sound attenuation, privacy or high security – many specifiers also require irregular shapes or compatibility with installation systems. Fortunately, working with specifiers and installers,

www.esg.glass

glass processors have become well versed in helping to prepare products for almost any application required.

Many glass panels produced in the UK are used in partitions and balustrades. Although they are usually rectangular, they need to be prepared to fit into fixing systems, so they routinely require pre-drilled holes and/ or notches. For these projects,

01376 520061 43

It can be cut to fit Gothic arches or window apertures or used to realise an adventurous new architectural concept. Not only can panels of up to 4.5 x 2.5m be cut to any shape using a CNC machine, but notches and holes for installation can also be produced at the same time. The CNC machine will also polish the edges of the pane to create a safe-tohandle, ready-to-install glass panel to the specifier’s exact requirements. This technique can also be used to create kitchen splashbacks, cut to fit exactly around installed units and appliances, complete with apertures for electric sockets.

Most glass used for balustrades also needs to be made safe for end users, which, in many cases, may be the general public, so the edges must never be sharp or able to cause injury. We can make glass safe by producing a smooth, dull or polished finish. Although some panels will be polished as part of the CNC process, others will need to be specifically polished after cutting to size, so there are dedicated machines to edge and polish the glass as preferred. The edges of a glass panel can also be mitred to fit together in a precise edge, creating corners or even glass boxes, although the very edge will also need to be smoothed for safety purposes.

sales@esg.glass FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

BUILDING ELEMENTS

RAIN, SNOW, ICE? NO PROBLEM FOR WEST FRASER’S CABERDEK FLOORING WEST FRASER

DOWNER UNVEILS A HAT-TRICK OF NEW FRAMING SYSTEMS DOWNER FRAMING

Downer Framing has launched three new framing systems to ensure that specifiers and contractors go nowhere else for their rainscreen framing requirements.

The launch of the three new products follows hard on the heels of substantial investment in the unveiling of its new website and release of Downer Designer, its free-to-use online platform where users can obtain, store and manage static and thermal calculations tailored to their DOW/ individual project. The three new additions to Downer’s portfolio are the DCS032 horizontal adaptor, DCS033 hook-on and DCS034 soffit framing systems, all of which employ Downer’s HELPING HAND brackets, combined with extruded aluminium profiles to meet the principle of a ventilated facade for new-build and refurbishment projects.

www.downerframing.com 01424 852641 tomwalker@architecturalpanelsolutions.com

CaberDek is one of West Fraser’s flagship quality flooring products designed to ensure that, whatever weather befalls UK construction sites, work can continue cleanly and safely; this is especially important with today’s tighter-than-ever timelines.

It is made from the same moisture-resistant particleboard as the standard CaberFloor P5 and features a protective non-slip film applied to its upper surface. CaberDek’s protective film prevents rain and frost damage to the new floor surface as well as providing a safe non-slip working surface for the construction team. CaberDek can be left exposed and remains BBA approved for up to 42 days without risk of damage, provided it is correctly installed with West Fraser’s CaberFix adhesives.

uk.westfraser.com 01786 812921

KNIGHTSBRIDGE REACHES NEW HIGHS WITH LED INDUSTRIAL LIGHTING KNIGHTSBRIDGE

The new Potentia LED high-bay range from Knightsbridge provides an ideal solution for industrial applications requiring versatility, flexibility, durability, control and performance. The high bays, which come in two sizes, incorporate tri-wattage and dual-CCT functions along with other innovative features to deliver long-life and powerful illumination. The high bays feature a selectable CCT switch, allowing users to adjust the colour temperature between 4000 and 5000K according to preference, and offer wattages of either 100, 120 and 150 or 150, 180 and 200W depending on the model. Suitable for the toughest industrial environments, Potentia are rated to IK08, making them resilient in the face of impacts, and also IP65, ensuring resistance against dust and water ingress.

www.mlaccessories.co.uk

01582 887760

CLASS 1 MAGPLY BOARDS WITHSTAND REAL-LIFE FIRE TEST ON SURREY HOME MAGPLY

AIRTECH HELPS LANDLORDS COMPLY WITH NEW MOULD GUIDANCE AIRTECH SOLUTIONS

Condensation and mould specialist, Airtech Solutions, is offering expert advice and help to social housing providers and private landlords following the publication of the Government’s guidance, ‘Understanding and addressing the health risks of damp and mould in the home’.

This follows on from the Rt Hon Michael Gove, Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, writing to council leaders and social housing providers regarding damp and mould after the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak due to a mouldy home, and the subsequent coroner’s report. The guidance outlines the causes of damp and mould, the associated health risks and the crucial role that ventilation plays in mitigating and preventing mould.

www.airtechsolutions.co.uk 01823 690292 info@airtechsolutions.co.uk FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

A potentially catastrophic blaze, which consumed the garage containing a parked vehicle adjoining a £1m house in rural Surrey, was stopped in its tracks thanks to the 12mm A1 non-combustible Magply being chosen as the render substrate board. The property was constructed using a structural insulated panel (SIP) system with A1 non-combustible Magply being used on the exterior of the building as the substrate panel for the proprietary render system. Magply is a multi-use A1 non-combustible board with an impressive library of testing for fire applications. In the offsite and timber frame sector, the board is designed and specified to contain a fire and support the emergency service with added crucial time.

www.magply.co.uk

01621 776252

john@magply.co.uk

NUAIRE EXPANDS XBOXER HEAT RECOVERY RANGE NUAIRE

Nuaire, part of the Genuit group, has expanded its marketleading Xboxer heat recovery range with the addition of the UNI-X unit, which has now been rebranded to Xboxer Universal.

Originally launched in 2017 as a ventilation solution for student accommodation, the UNI-X has been a favourite amongst Nuaire’s customers, even becoming an Innovation of the Year finalist at the Student Accommodation Awards. Since its launch, the UNI-X has proven to be a suitable solution across a far wider range of applications than ever anticipated, including schools, hospitals, offices, care homes and apartments. In line with its widespread appeal, Nuaire has rebranded the UNI-Xunits as Xboxer Universal, part of the Xboxer heat recovery range.

www.nuaire.co.uk/best-practice/xboxer-family 02920 858200 enquiries@nuaire.co.uk 44

BUILDING ELEMENTS

Frontage of Sadler’s Wells East showing the canopy. Courtesy of Sadler’s Wells.

Deflection and natural frequency Tight deflection requirements and natural frequency had to be overcome, too, and the detailing was again calculated using Finite Element Software.

The contractor and design teams provided values for both long-term deflection and dead-load deflection only, which determined the amount of pre-camber required during construction. This was a challenging section to calculate due to the additional support factor of the raked end, which sits on a rigid wall.

Expansion and contraction issues

SCHÖCK CHOREOGRAPHS BESPOKE CANOPY AT SADLER’S WELLS EAST Enhanced by the saw-tooth roof design, reflecting the industrial heritage of the site, Sadler’s Wells East will join the cultural heritage of the East Bank development at Stratford when the new dance theatre opens at London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in 2024. The design has many distinctive features, but a major focal point is a cantilevered canopy. This runs the length of the frontage and is designed to carry a precast green roof – which presented several design and structural challenges.

SCHÖCK

A bespoke solution from Schöck The canopy is 51m long with very high support loadings, carried by the end profile of the in-situ RC cantilever beams – each 500mm wide x 950mm deep, with a cantilever of 4.6m. The span between the beams is 4.2m, with 12 beams along the canopy length. In the normal permanent condition,

the moment and shear loads were 900kNm and 360kN, respectively. Due to the complexity of the loads and arrangement of the bespoke Schöck Isokorb elements required to transfer such high forces into a relatively small concrete beam section, the support rods were designed using Finite Element Software.

The cantilever beams, aligned

with internal supporting beams, allow the Isokorb rods to penetrate far enough into the structure to distribute the demanding loads. In addition, it was necessary to consider bomb-blast loading, which introduced uplift forces. So, the design had to accommodate loads in both positive and negative directions for both moment and shear.

Totally verifiable performance

Isometric viewed from below (cantilever beam highlighted in red). Courtesy of architect firm: O’Donnell + Tuomey.

www.schoeck.com/en-gb/solutions

The length of the main canopy and the size of the rods required to transfer the main forces meant that thermal stresses would be caused by the expansion and contraction of the external concrete.

Expansion joints, therefore, had to be introduced at every third beam (approximately 8.4m centres), which carry the load from one set of precast canopy sections onto the supporting beam. Here, Schöck incorporated its new heavyduty Stacon shear force doweltype SLD. This new dowel is a uniquely compact product and, as the anchoring bodies have been reduced in size, it has the advantage of enabling higher loads to be installed in thinner slabs and walls, optimising onsite reinforcement.

The dependable and fullycompliant Schöck Isokorb range helps projects meet full compliance with the necessary UK Building Regulations. There are solutions for concrete-to concrete, concrete-to-steel, steel-to-steel, renovation projects – and even a maintenance-free alternative to wrapped parapets. All products have the security of independent BBA certification, which provides NHBC approval. Also, the new Stacon dowel has been awarded UK Technical Assessment (UKTA) along with fire protection classification R 120.

01865 290890 45

design-uk@schoeck.com FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

BUILDING ELEMENTS

S

FOOTBALL CLUB SCORES ADVANCED FIRE PROTECTION

A state-of-the-art fire alarm panel by leading fire protection manufacturer Advanced has been installed at Coventry City Football Club's training facility.

ADVANCED

afety and security specialist Swift Fire & Safety installed the Advanced MxPro 5 and was also involved in the design and commissioning. Renowned for its reliability and advanced features, MxPro 5 was the ideal choice for Coventry City FC's safety needs. The cutting-edge system offers precise fire detection capabilities, minimising the risk of false alarms while ensuring rapid response to any potential fire hazards.

The panel was installed alongside Apollo smoke and heat detectors, as well as thirdparty VADs, taking advantage of MxPro 5's multiprotocol compatibility – a standout feature that ensures maximum design flexibility.

MxPro 5 stands at the forefront of the fire industry as the premier multiprotocol fire panel, boasting certification by FM Approvals in accordance with the rigorous EN 54 standard. This exceptional system empowers customers with a versatile selection of four detector protocols and provides a fully-accessible installer network, accompanied by comprehensive training and support. MxPro 5 effortlessly adapts to diverse scenarios, offering the flexibility to function as a single-loop, single-panel configuration or seamlessly integrate into expansive high-speed networks comprising up to 200 panels, capable of safeguarding vast areas. Its effortless installation, adaptable configuration and extensive array of peripheral options render MxPro 5 a tailor-made solution for virtually any application.

www.advancedco.com

0345 894 7000

NEW STRATTON MK3 BOILER FROM HAMWORTHY HEATING HAMWORTHY HEATING

VENT-AXIA SETS NEW STANDARD IN COMMERCIAL HEAT RECOVERY WITH THE LAUNCH OF THE AWARD-WINNING SENTINEL APEX VENT-AXIA

Vent-Axia has launched the next generation of commercial heat recovery ventilation with the Sentinel Apex to help specifiers create low-carbon buildings as we head towards the UK’s 2050 netzero target. The Sentinel Apex has been designed to be highly energy efficient with industry-leading low specific fan powers (SFP) and low embodied carbon.

Occupant comfort has also been a priority in its development, with the Apex operating quietly as it efficiently improves indoor air quality. Meanwhile, to make specification simpler for consultants, the Apex also features many components and controls as standard.

www.vent-axia.com 0844 856 0590 projectorders@vent-axia.com FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023

Hamworthy Heating is pleased to announce the introduction of its new Stratton mk3 wall-hung condensing boiler, which provides a compact and efficient heating solution for plant rooms with limited space. Offering outstanding efficiency, the latest addition to the Hamworthy range of commercial boilers features a 5:1 turndown ratio, excellent low-class 6 NOx emission across all models, and up to 97% gross seasonal efficiency.

Designed for simple installation and maintenance, the new Stratton mk3 features a small and lightweight design, making it a fitting solution for plant rooms where location and space present a challenge.

www.hamworthy-heating.com

01202 662552

sales@hamworthy-heating.com

NEW DORCHESTER DR-SG STAINLESS-STEEL WATER HEATER FROM HAMWORTHY PROVIDES DURABLE AND LONG-LASTING SOLUTION HAMWORTHY HEATING

Hamworthy Heating is pleased to announce the introduction of its new Dorchester DR-SG range of stainless-steel condensing water heaters with enhanced durability and large continuous outputs. The Dorchester DR-SG is available in 10 power outputs over three storage capacities and features a durable stainlesssteel tank, heat exchanger and coil for enhanced performance, efficiency and increased service life. Suitable for both renovation and new-build projects, including locations with substantial and continuous hot water demands, such as hotels and sports facilities, the Dorchester DR-SG meets all of the latest Building Regulations and offers significantly improved efficiency and performance when replacing a noncondensing water heater.

www.hamworthy-heating.com 46

01202 662552

sales@hamworthy-heating.com

BUILDING ELEMENTS

ZENTIA GIVES ULTIMA+ THE ULTIMATE UPGRADE WITH NEW NAMES AND NEW PRODUCTS – MEET PRESTIGE Zentia, a UK leader in complete ceiling solutions, is pleased to announce the renaming of its brightest and whitest tile, Ultima+. The new family, titled Prestige, will continue to represent the pinnacle of innovation and excellence in the industry and set new standards for performance, reliability and versatility.

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restige, which was successfully launched on 25th October, offers three reliable, bespoke solutions depending on different client needs. The flagship product, Prestige, offers smooth, finely-textured laminated tiles that provide good sound absorption and attenuation, offering perfectly-balanced acoustical performance. The tiles are made in the UK*, contain up to 37% recycled content and are available in 35 colours, offering practical and creative solutions for a range of environments, including meeting rooms, waiting areas and data centres.

Prestige hA+ offers the same sleek, smooth aesthetics but also forms one of Zentia’s most sound-absorbent suspending ceiling tiles to date, making it ideal for open-plan areas that require a dose of calm and quiet, such as libraries and healthcare settings. As well as an outstanding acoustic performance, the ceiling systems offer a reinforced scratchresistant face and impressive environmental credentials, being 100% recyclable.

Zentia is committed to reducing the environmental impact of its products. As such, it is excited to announce the Prestige family will be the first laminated product

to be added to its Pinnacle Partner offcut recycling scheme. The scheme is a promise from Zentia, as a manufacturer, to take back and recycle all offcuts of Prestige tiles from its approved Pinnacle Partners on future projects. This will result in the reduction of the amount of waste going to landfill sites.

The final product within the range, Prestige dB, offers sound attenuation properties that are most effective when privacy is your main concern by limiting noise being transmitted through ceiling voids. This makes it ideal for individual offices and boardrooms. The tiles offer the same aesthetic finish that Zentia has become known for and can be specified, as with the rest of the range, in a range of different shapes, sizes and colours* to allow enhanced creative freedom.

Graham Taylor, Director of Sales and Marketing at Zentia, said: “We are thrilled to have successfully launched our new product range, Prestige, previously known and adored as Ultima+. Whilst the name may have changed, the brand and range’s reputation for reliability, quality and innovation has not, and Prestige is only another great example of our dedication to making cutting-edge ceiling tile solutions that are made in the UK and of the highest quality, offering the best solutions for our clients.”

FOOTNOTE: *Excluding dB range and SL2 Planks

www.zentia.com

0191 497 1000 47

info@zentia.com FC& A – DECEMBER – 2023