CONSTRUCTION
CARIBBEAN LOOKING INTO THE FUTURE: 2018 AND BEYOND
Construction from a Macroeconomic view
2018 Hurricane Preparedness
Smart Home Security
Precast Concrete: Time is Money
Sustainability in Construction
ISSUE 1 | 2018
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MORE THAN GREAT LIVING SPACES. WE DELIVER QUALITY, INTEGRITY & TRUST.
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CONTENTS
1.
3.
A Leader In The Construction Industry
5.
Leading the Caribbean to a Brighter Future
7.
The Architect As An Artist
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Publisher’s Note
Construction Activity In Barbados: A Macroeconomic Perspective
9.
11.
Precast Concrete: An Asset To The Hotel Sector
13. Investment
Securing Your
15. Staple
Barbados’ Construction
17.
Sustainability: Crucial to the Construction Industry
19.
Ready Block: Developing the Barbados Landscape
21.
Trends In Home Building And Design - What’s on Tap in 2018?
23.
Prepare Your Home For The 2018 Hurricane Season
Graphic Design done by:
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Publisher’s Note
Dear Reader, Welcome to our inaugural print edition of Construction Caribbean Magazine, aptly themed “Looking into the Future: 2018 and Beyond”, providing an integrated snapshot of the major trends affecting the industry in the months and years to come. January marked one year since we began this digital adventure, and we’ve never looked back. Our premise is simple— the days of overselling are gone. The modern consumer is both educated and informed and successful companies are those that share their expertise. This approach has translated into results—our clients have reported that customer conversion has been much higher than for traditional advertising. Reader feedback has also been overwhelmingly positive and we are confident that this favourable response will hold just as true for print. If there is any conclusion that can be extrapolated from these pages, it is how culture, the environment and macroeconomics intersect, directly impacting the construction industry and its various touch points. During the latter half of this decade, the Caribbean was heavily impacted by significant economic, environmental and ideological shifts, causing consumers to respond with a heightened commitment to safety, structural security and sustainability. Our in-depth and informative discussions with Tatem Architects, Blue Print Management, Rock Hard Cement, Preconco, Ready Mix, Ready Block, Meridian, G4S and Caribbean LED Lighting confirmed these observations— we thank these industry leaders for their support and transparency. To close, I would also like to thank my “right hand”, Mr. Joel Manning and my talented team of contributors, Jeremy Stephen, Daphne Ewing-Chow, Ariana da Silva, Michaela Gomes and thank you, dear reader, for picking up this issue! With Warm Regards,
Zoe Manning Publisher 1 | www.constructioncaribbean.com
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ROCK HARD
Rock Hard Cement established in 2015, has built a strong distribution network to consistently supply the Caribbean region with quality cement.
CEMENT A LEADER IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY Rock Hard Cement established themselves in 2015 with the clear objective of becoming a multifaceted advocate for change and development of the construction and cultural sectors throughout the Caribbean. Their primary influence has been in the improved quality of the most in-demand building material, cement. For the last two years, Rock Hard Cement has been a proud supplier across
the Caribbean, including countries, Barbados, St. Vincent, St. Lucia, Guyana and Trinidad & Tobago. Since their entry into the market, they have managed to reduce product costs throughout the entire region, having a direct effect on the affordability of building, cutting expenses by up to 50%. In their mission to expand into neighbouring islands, they are succeeding in bringing about similar changes. The company is constantly expanding and evolving their processes, taking great pride in their ability to provide a superior product in terms of both quality and strength. This has been repetitively conclusive through their 7, 21, and 28-day product tests. At the moment, representatives over at Rock Hard Cement are putting together a seminar series to demonstrate efficient use of their product, in line with upcoming advancements. The seminars will showcase the most effective way for clientele to get the highest yield from Rock Hard Cement, optimising concrete mix designs to improve strength, durability, and reduce cost.
CARIBBEAN UNITY; SPORTS AND RECREATION Aside from the substantial changes they have brought to the industry, Rock Hard Cement sees their brand as more than a link in the chain of construction processes. During their time in business, they have actively operated as a support system for the Caribbean, and a proud sponsor of cultural platforms, and sports and recreation, such as the Barbados Trident’s cricket team, the Cupid Cavaliers cricket team, and the Trinidad Muslim League - Premiere League cricket, amongst many others. They have also sponsored athletes such as Justin Campbell and Zane Maloney of Barbados, and Ryan Gonsalves of St. Vincent and The Grenadines. These are just a few examples where the company has shown a huge support for motorsports, and cricket, and the number of people it brings out in celebration of local talent year after year. As in their own industry, the team at Rock Hard Cement is firm believers in fair play and healthy competition, constantly on the lookout for new ways to engage in community building affairs. Speaking with Deborah Anne Reid, Regional Administration Manager at Rock Hard Cement, she commented, “Our efforts to support the development of youth and sports is entirely in line with our belief in building stronger, not only within the consort on the industry, but in the various communities across the region.”
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LOCAL MUSIC AND PERFORMANCE
Nothing speaks to pride and patriotism in the Caribbean more than our love for the music we have rooted deep in our culture. For decades, live music fetes, and festivals have been one of the island chain’s main attractions. Recently, Rock Hard Cement has taken this into their own hands by becoming the title sponsor of the inaugural Rockin’ Hard Concert, held on the 24th of February 2018. It featured Jamaican reggae group, Third World as headliners, Spice & Co. along with Lil Rick, Red Plastic Bag, Nikita, and Damian Marvay.
AID TO DOMINICA
In 2017, a string of natural disasters struck the Caribbean, devastating multiple islands, and leaving many without homes and resources. Following the widespread destruction caused by Hurricane Maria, Rock Hard Cement donated a significant amount of cement to sister island, Dominica as part of the efforts to aid in restoration movements. Operations Manager, Darren Matthews, has been in full support of the recovery of the island, stating, ‘we aim to make a positive difference’. This act has demonstrated Rock Hard Cement’s commitment to taking on a commendable sense of social responsibility.
“Rock Hard Cement is a proven product with consistent results which allows the construction industry to further benefit from improved mixed designs, as well as helping to reduce their overall costs.”
Written by Michaela Gomes
A PASSION FOR BUSINESS, COMMUNITIES AND PEOPLE
Being only in the markets for just over two years the investors behind the brand have been in business for decades. There is no questioning what this team has managed to accomplish in such a short time. Between leaving their footprint in the construction industry, and their passion and engagement in all local communities, it’s obvious that Rock Hard Cement shows no signs of slowing down. Be sure to follow Rock Hard Cement’s journey, as they continue to take on new and exciting creative initiatives with each opportunity they get throughout the region.
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CARIBBEAN LED
LIGHTING: Leading the Caribbean to a Brighter Future
Taking care of our environment is a responsibility every person and company should have a passion for. Over the years there has been a significant push in education surrounding environmentally friendly practices such as recycling, energy conservation and the use of LED lighting to name a few. With the Caribbean region having one of the highest electricity cost in the world due to its dependency on imported fossil fuels, one company has championed the cause to not only reduce the cost of electricity but also to lower the carbon footprint of the Caribbean. Dubbed as one of the fastest growing companies in the region, Caribbean LED Lighting Inc., founded in Barbados in 2011, is passionate about all things environmental, with Founder and Executive Chairman, Jim Reid, noting that one of the quickest ways to reduce your energy consumption is through lighting. By definition, an LED is an electronic device that emits light when an electrical current is passed through it. What makes this form of lighting so special is that it produces no toxic elements, emits light while using less energy and carries a longer lifespan than other bulbs.
Dubbed as one of the fastest growing companies in the region, Caribbean LED Lighting Inc., founded in Barbados in 2011, is passionate about all things environmental, with Founder and Executive Chairman, Jim Reid, noting that one of the quickest ways to reduce your energy consumption is through lighting. “Manufacturing in the Caribbean for the Caribbean” Caribbean LED Lighting began manufacturing commercial, industrial and residential lighting in August 2011 in Barbados. Just a short two years later, the company expanded their manufacturing facility, doubling their floor space. In 2016, they added an office and store-front in St. Lucia coupled with distributors in many of the Caribbean islands including St. Vincent, St. Kitts & Nevis, Turks and Caicos, Antigua, Guyana, Jamaica and Dominica. This serves not only to reduce the cost of importing products from the United States of America but also ensures that products are readily available right here in the region. With safety and ease of travel being one of the priorities of the region, in 2014 Caribbean LED Lighting began its partnership with LED Roadway Lighting TLD, located in Halifax, Nova Scotia to operate as its regional manufacturing partner. Since then the company has supplied a range of sustainable streetlights across the Caribbean inclusive of Barbados, Antigua, St. Lucia, Nevis, St. Vincent and more recently piloted projects in the Bahamas and Suriname. With their expansion plans bearing fruit, the operations were again doubled in 2017 to over 12,000 sq ft, employing over 40 persons. Caribbean LED Lighting is continuing to grow and is a net earner of foreign exchange for Barbados. Written by Ariana da Silva
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The Architect as an Artist
Architecture is one part science, one part craft and two parts art. - David Rutten
Juxtaposed against the industrial landscape of the sprawling Welches area are the clean and contemporary lines, and solid black aluminium and red, white and steel trimmings of the Rubis headquarters. Statuesque and edgy, the modernist structure has an iconic presence in the rapidly developing area.
One Rubis Plaza
“One of the things I love about the Rubis building is that there is no front or back— the building simply has two fronts,” describes architect Pierre Tatem of the visually striking, asymmetrical and structurally daring exterior of the building that he designed. “Architecture should capture the imagination,” remarks Tatem, smiling intently from behind the desk of his glass-encased office, located at Blue Print Management in Hastings. “A building is a living time capsule and should thus take risks, stimulate the eye and tell a story about a brand.” This innovative and visual approach is both unique and refreshing but in the local context, the disciplines of art and commercial architecture do not often coexist. Form often gives way to function and pragmatism outweighs modernism. “But,” asks Tatem, “why can’t there be a marriage of the two?”
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“Some of the greatest architects in history, such as Michelangelo and Giotto, were artists first. Architecture is the only field I can think of in which art and science can operate in such perfect symbiosis to tell a story about a brand,” declares Tatem, making reference to the contemporary design of the lime green offices of TD Bank in Limegrove. “One of my favourite elements was a desk that I custom designed as a derivative of the TD Bank logo— it is extremely subtle yet profound.”
This approach is also reflected in the sleek and artsy vibe of restaurant, Buzo Osteria Italiana. “We’ve tried to build Buzo to reflect our passions and values: a love of honest cooking, an appreciation for the arts,” says Cristian Grini, Owner of Buzo. “Cristian had a very strong vision of what he wanted,” says Tatem, whose design of the contemporary space, with its earthy colors, edgy materials and sophisticated finishes is an apt representation of this perspective, which was effortlessly shared by them both.
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configuration evokes sentiments of strength, innovation and looking boldly into the future. Simple colours and geometrical shapes collaborate in telling a story. You can have beauty in a perfectly done square,” declares Tatem, “but it is how you manipulate that square that makes it art or just a square.”
“The space is also a reflection of cultural changes in the way that we eat,” explains Tatem. “No longer is meal preparation an activity that is to be hidden away. Being able to watch your food being cooked is to witness art in motion.” Artistic elements such as line, shape, form, colour, space and texture are the aesthetic building blocks of architectural design, providing a strategic and psychological impact to the internal and external environment. In the context of his commercial projects, Tatem takes great care to ensure that all architectural elements are consistent with and embody the client’s branding and message.
Gildan Barbados Gildan Barbados
For Gildan the majority of Tatem’s design focused on the interiors. He applied the same approach to the interiors as with the TD reception desk. “Everything was a customized design including the company conference table,” says Tatem. “The idea was to have fun with design to express artistic expression.” Architecture, sculpture and art are intertwined disciplines, merging function and rationality with the visual elements of branding and psychology— these can provide a structure with profound meaning, influencing public perceptions, attitudes and emotions. For further details call 1(246)537-8860, email us at pierre@tatemarchitects.com, or visit www.tatemarchitects.com.
Written by Daphne Ewing-Chow
Boldly and intentionally commanding the site of the Newton Industrial Park on Tom Adams Highway, the modern, layered design of Gildan provides a fitting expression of the company’s identity. Metallic grey walls, extensive glass and a juxtaposition of curved shapes against traditional box-like structures are set against the sea of rich blue of the company’s brand. The campus-like www.constructioncaribbean.com | 8
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Construction Activity in Barbados: A Macroeconomic Perspective We all see the evidence of expansion in global economies primarily through the lens of infrastructural development. Surely, many governments’ policies reflect such thinking. It is the simplest way to engender confidence: People simply believe in what they see. Furthermore, we all dream of being able to build wealth in tangible ways. I do not know a single adult who wouldn’t wish to have easier and cheaper access to credit or better yet a mortgage for that dream home. A look across the Caribbean would leave the average reader impressed, along with the other “trappings of economic development” with the belief that improved build quality of residential and commercial properties must be a sign of improved standard of living and wealth of the nation. And I simply cannot blame them. Moreover, I do agree with most that construction, as an industry is, at the very least, a notable contributor to economic and social development. As aforementioned, governments can spur growth in the short run through the incentivisation of infrastructural development through the following: 1. 2.
They can influence the decrease in interest rates so as to cheapen access to credit They can fully or partially invest in capital projects along with utilising concessions to drive development
This is quite evident when you look closely at the economy of Barbados during the post-independence period (1966 to now) in particular. It is well known to all local economists that an integral component of any wider economic action plan devised through the Ministry of Finance will involve the development of capital projects and the spurring of private sector-related
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construction projects. For example, a seminal economic strategy utilised by the late Tom Adams-led government of 1980 centered on passing the Freehold Tenantries Act (1980) and the creation of several parastatals (including but not limited to the Barbados Investment Development Corporation (BIDC)). The first act alone created the environment which accounted for a steadily growing collection service providers and construction firms; improved opportunities to expand the private housing stock; and greater means to build financial wealth for the average Barbadian. Furthermore, the creation of the BIDC along with other statutory corporations in the post 1980 period resulted in a legacy where government led or partially financed the largest capital and construction projects in Barbados. These ranged from an improved road network and the creation of highways, the expansion of the Port of Bridgetown, and increased public building stock. An industry was clearly reinvigorated and began its stellar contribution by the way of creating the means through which the Barbadian economy became an example to small developing economies worldwide. Persons born as late as the 1980s saw later on in the early 2000s how the construction boom then has facilitated and encouraged easier and relatively cheaper access to credit, the latter of which still holds a partially true to this day. The Barbadian construction sector is one of the major employers in Barbados, employing and empowering directly and indirectly tens of thousands of people. It is for this reason, in addition to others mentioned previously that the sector is critical and central to short-term economic programmes. But to have a full appreciation of its contribution to the island’s continual development,
it is prudent to examine some of the statistical data that gives deeper insights into the sector’s contribution to Real Gross Domestic Product (RGDP), along with its effect on the financial sector. This to my mind is where one can see how much of an effect the construction sector has on another one critical to the Barbadian economy A deep dive into data for the period of 1976 to 2016 from the Central Bank
of Barbados would suggest two tales. On one hand, while the sectors role as a mechanism for employment and development is well regarded, the statistical evidence states that, all other things being equal, the construction sector has directly contributed an annual average of 7 percent to RGDP over the 40 year time period. This pales in comparison to the average proportions attributed to wholesale and retail; business and general services; government; and tourism sectors (20 percent, 18 percent, 14 percent, 13 percent respectively). Again, construction as a smaller sector of the economy than the aforementioned is still critical to their ability to contribute. What is also very worthwhile to note is the evidence of a close correlation between the growth in the economy and that in the contribution of construction to RGDP. In other words, one can presume that Barbados tends to grow when there is more construction activity even if that contribution is small or that there is more construction because Barbados grows. The same cannot be said of the manufacturing sector. In 1976 it was responsible for 12 percent of the island’s economic activity but no longer is as important as recent data posted in 2016 revealed that the sector created just 4 percent of total economic activity. Over the timeline of 1976 - 2016, Barbados’ economy can be described as having two expansionary or fast growth (1977 to 1986 and 1997 to 2006) and recessionary or slow growth
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(1987 to 1996 and 2007 to 2016) periods. The construction sector’s contribution to RGDP fell to an average of 6 percent during both “recessions” while it posted an average of 7 percent and 8 percent during the first and second growth periods, respectively. Finally, we cannot ever disregard or diminish the construction sectors positive influence on the success of the Barbadian banking and financial sector. Central Bank of Barbados data supports the view that the sector by the way of the improvement and increase of, primarily, housing and commercial property during the period under examination paved the way for increased bank revenues. Mortgages for private residences have over time become the predominant way that the banking sector captures it revenue. In 1976, commercial bank loan activity was split evenly between private dwellings and commercial mortgages. But in 2016 this spread now favours private residence mortgages (94 percent)
over commercial property mortgages (approximately 5 percent). In fact, the size of the market for mortgages has grown significantly over the time period, beginning as a BB$11 million market in 1976 but growing to BB$2.4 billion in mortgages in 2016. This represents a growth rate of 14 percent per annum in the value of mortgages during the time period. One should at this point consider that banking industry is captured in business and general services sector of the economy and therefore its contribution is rather significant to the economic activity on an annual basis. All other things being equal, it is on paper more important to the economy than construction but the reality is that both do simply depend on each other. With respect to banking revenues, this assertion becomes much clearer to the reader due to the fact that for the period 1976 to 2009 (data was only available for this time with respect to interest income), interest
on loans in general averaged around 59 percent of total commercial bank income. Construction activity simply is that important to the banking sector.
And this also means that despite its rather small size from an economic point of view, it definitely punches well above its weight. Kind of like Barbados.
Written by Jeremy Stephen, lecturer in Banking and Finance, Department of Economics, University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus
*
Charts sourced from the Central Bank of Barbados.
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PRECAST CONCRETE: An asset to the Hotel Sector
With hotel occupancy levels averaging at 65% annually and with an additional 2,300 rooms projected for the local inventory by 2019 (BTI, 2014) competition in the hospitality sector in Barbados is higher than ever before. In the race to attract new guests and obtain positive reviews, hotel owners and investors must be focused on detail, quality and timing, from the moment that the planning process begins to the moment that the first chocolate is placed on a pillowcase. Preconco is the Caribbean’s leading full-service Design & Build Precast Contractor and can manage the construction process from design to completion. Preconco’s precast building solution system panels are formed to suit design requirements allowing for any shape of window or wall. Timeframes and budgets are paramount and projects are often completed on schedule and within budget without compromising quality. This degree of efficiency makes precast a very efficient solution for hotels and hotel chains worldwide; in fact, the Marriott International recently announced that it would be significantly increasing its precast construction projects in order to bring down building costs and help franchisees avoid the problems associated with l abour shortages. On the local and regional front, precast has been found to be the most reliable building method for large-scale construction projects, ensuring a positive Return on Investment. Some hotel projects that have
In the race to attract new guests and obtain positive reviews, hotel owners and investors must be focused on detail, quality and timing, from the moment that the planning process begins to the moment that the first chocolate is placed on a pillowcase. used Preconco precast in their construction include Sandals Barbados, Ritz Carlton Bermuda, The Crane Resort and Residences, Wyndham Barbados, Hyatt Centric Barbados, Sea Breeze, St. Peter’s Bay Villas, Sugar Hill Condos, Westmoreland Condos, The Landings St. Lucia, Port St. Charles, Port Ferdinand, Almond Resorts, Colony Club Hotel and Mango Bay. Some of the major advantages of Precast Structures that have been recognized by the sector are as follows: Aesthetically versatile Precast architecture is modern and light— due to its durability there is no need for bulky support features that get in the way of structural fluidity. It can also be tailored, designed, and moulded to fit specific needs, ensuring brand duplicity where required. Numerous building projects worldwide have proven the aesthetic versatility of precast. The Sydney Opera House in Australia is a modern marvel constructed out of precast concrete. Shorter construction duration Precast concrete buildings require shorter project time with significantly less site labour, noise and waste, as well as reduced management and insurance costs. Shorter construction duration also means that overall revenue potential is increased due to a timely hotel opening. Precast manufacturing and installation are more resilient to bad weather, which means less downtime, even on rainy days. Apes Hill
Top quality Being produced in a factory environment using state-of-the-art engineering tools, precast elements enjoy a high degree of quality control. Concrete is constantly being tested, being mixed and cast in The Crane Resort
small batches continuously during the day. Each element can be checked pre, during and post-manufacturing as well. Concrete strength and reinforcement are much higher than traditional methods due to the inherent aspects of the installation process and early handling. Resilient and hurricane-proof The devastating 2017 hurricane season and worrisome predictions for the year ahead should be sufficient warning that construction projects need to abide by the highest standards of resilience and structural integrity. Precast concrete is highly durable and structurally safe. Precast is fireproof, resistant to hazardous chemicals, and virtually impervious to rust. It is able to withstand significantly higher load bearings than other materials and naturally withstands the elements and natural hazards. It is no surprise that precast has been integrated into the large-scale rebuilding projects of countries such as Dominica that was devastated during the 2017 hurricane season. Efficient at noise reduction The density of precast allows for the absorption and deflection of sound, which makes it ideal for privacy construction elements and sound walls around communities that face busy areas and highways. Whether the driving forces are efficiency, budgetary restrictions, vulnerability to extreme weather or limited timeframes, precast construction can meet logistical and aesthetic needs while providing durability, fire resistance, noise control, network support and the highest possible quality. Written by Daphne Ewing-Chow
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G4S: Securing your Investment
Safety is one of life’s greatest concerns. Imagine your home as a fort that protects you, your family and your valuables. Ideally, you would want to ensure that no one is capable of infiltrating your fort and its for this reason that layered security exists as it serves to provide multiple defenses against intruders resulting in a more efficient way to prevent losses. Ideally, the more challenging the task appears to a burglar, the more likely they are to choose another target. Layering your security, whether corporate or personal, is a concept that has been tried and proven and it is for this reason that we sat down with Maria Boyce Taylor; Commercial Manager at G4S Secure Solutions (Barbados) Ltd, to learn more about layered protection. What is Layered Protection? Layered protection means utilising several different security measures to ensure that your home or business is secure. Each layer provides a different type of protection, ensuring that if someone tried to burglarize your home or business, they would be caught before stealing anything. The idea behind layering security is actually very simple; how many layers must a potential intruder go through before gaining access to your home or business?
ABOUT G4S AND SECURITY SOLUTIONS
G4S Secure Solutions (Barbados) Ltd (G4S) is the leading security company in Barbados and provides a range of services for the protection of life and the preservation of assets. We understand the construction industry and are able to draw on expertise, our proven capabilities in risk assessment and intelligence, logistics, end-to-end project management and integrated technology solutions to deliver effective, comprehensive security solutions. G4S Barbados has operations in Barbados, Grenada and St. Lucia.
The key to efficiently and effectively layering your home or business is for it to be done strategically, taking your environment, the biggest risk, lifestyle and your specific security needs into consideration. What are the different layers of home security? At G4S, we do not have “set” layers per se; the layers are determined by many factors. We seek to design your home and/or commercial security taking the location, nature of the business, how it operates, the lifestyle of the clients and potential risks, into consideration. We have many different layers available including, but not limited to, alarm systems with monitoring and response, key holding and access control and video surveillance (CCTV). We always recommend monitoring home security systems as an essential weapon in the arsenal of security layers. At G4S we have a 24-hour monitoring station that allows our clients to feel safe whether at work or home, knowing their properties are being monitored for any risk including intruders, fire and other unexpected hazards.
Written by Ariana da Silva
For a homeowner or business interested in layering their security, what is the usual process? We are passionate about safety, security and service excellence. A G4S representative will visit your property to conduct a full assessment to better understand the risk, design your ideal security plan and make recommendations for the layers required. What are the advantages of layered home security? Layered homed security acts firstly as a deterrent to burglars and can serve to minimize break-ins and home invasions. Layered home security also brings with it a peace of mind for the individual knowing that their property is protected. A feeling which is further backed by G4S who provides around the clock support for their security systems. Are there any disadvantages of layered home security? There are no real disadvantages to layering your home or business’ security. Layering the security does require an initial investment, including equipment costs, installation and subscription of services, however, this investment is one that serves to provide peace of mind and protection and it’s for this reason that an increasing number of homeowners and businesses are choosing to layer their security. By understanding the industry and the wider challenges of the protection of assets, G4S aims to assist their clients by building and maintaining trust in their security services, reducing operating costs and improve the overall business performance. “We aim to differentiate G4S by providing industry-leading security solutions that are innovative, reliable and efficient.”
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G4S Secure Solutions (St. Lucia) Limited Choc Estate, P.O. Box CP6098, Castries Tel: (758) 450-7233 • Fax: (758) 450-1700 Website: www.g4s.com Email: security@lc.g4s.com
G4S Secure Solutions (Grenada) Limited Maurice Bishop Highway, Grand Anse, St. George’s Tel: (473) 439-7233 • Fax: (473) 439-7237 Website: www.g4s.com Email: security@gd.g4s.com
G4S Secure Solutions (Barbados) Limited Brighton, Black Rock, St. Michael Tel: (246) 417-7233 • Fax: (246) 421-7574 Website: www.g4s.com Email: security@bb.g4s.com
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Barbados’ Construction Staple READY MIX LTD has been fulfilling the construction industry’s concrete demands in Barbados since 1969. Over this course of time, the company has prided itself on their ability to deliver high quality, cost-effective designs to their clients, with dedicated customer service. With their 50th anniversary approaching in 2019, management at Ready Mix Ltd has been on the lookout for new, more sustainable processing and construction methods for the growing expectations, and ever-evolving technologies of the industry. Their first stepping stone was in the manufacturing of their own type M sand (medium graded) in partnership with CO Williams Asphalt and Quarries Ltd. The process manufactures a cleaner product with fewer impurities in comparison to the natural brown sand. Concrete - Sustainable material benefits The majority of individuals look towards concrete as their primary building material. While some may argue on the topic of CO2 emissions generated through manufacturing and transportation energy, this is heavily outweighed by the long-term sustainable benefits this material has to offer. Such benefits include: • Resource efficiency: concrete is made from limestone, one of the most abundant minerals on earth • Durability: concrete has a lengthy lifespan, meaning less energy spent on rebuilding and ability to better withstand natural disasters • Thermal mass: this cuts costs on mechanical heating and cooling bills • Reflectivity: white painted concrete roofs reduce heat island effect, creating cooler environments. • Recycling: concrete can be recycled and repurposed for a multitude of projects. 15 | www.constructioncaribbean.com
The Ready Mix family is set on growth and new ideas, stating that with our changing environmental conditions, recycling concrete is a ‘step in the right direction’ for both the company and Barbados.
Apes Hill
Looking into the future for Ready Mix: Lightweight Concrete - Benefits and Feasibility Among the company’s interests is the possibility of manufacturing lightweight concrete at the plant a material so far not utilised in the island. Lightweight concrete has the potential to be a more economical and environmentally friendly option for both client and distributor. While the material unit price is higher, this is more than offset by the overall reduction in required concrete volume, weight (lightweight concrete is typically between 25 and 35% lighter than standard weight concrete), foundation requirements, and structural steel reinforcement systems, allowing for longer deck spans and shallower excavation. The need for lightweight concrete was first exemplified on the island at the Port Ferdinand Marina project where a mobile bridge was required to connect the ports lagoon and the sea for passing vessels while maintaining the structural integrity of the coast road. The bridge’s design incorporated lightweight concrete at the road’s surface to limit deck weight and hence reduce pressure on respective motors and machinery, as well as negate the need to excavate deeper into the ground.
Recycling - Creating Environmental Consciousness Top of the agenda as the company moves forward is the potential for recycling concrete. Their consciousness of the quantities of concrete that go to waste into landfill has stimulated interest in investing in the proper machinery for recycling. This can be done with hard or soft concrete by using a portable crusher or separator to allow recycled concrete to be processed on site, or at Ready Mix’s central location. The following are a few benefits of recycling concrete: • Reduce construction waste and extend life of landfills for additional years • Recognised by the LEED to earn points towards certification • Recycled concrete can substitute virgin aggregate and therefore reduce environmental cost of natural resources • Reduced disposal costs • Recycled concrete can be used in the building of artificial reefs
Written by Michaela Gomes
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READY MIX LIMITED, ALMOST 50 YEARS OF QUALITY SERVICE.
Our 50th Anniversary is coming up in 2019, and Ready Mix Limited is looking towards new, more sustainable processing and construction methods for the growing expectations of our clientele and the ever evolving technologies of the industry, as well as a recycling initiative. We take this opportunity to thank our loyal customers who have supported us over the years. We have watched homes and businesses we helped to build, succeed and thrive, just as we have done - brick by brick and strength by stength.
• Tel: 436-3959 or 836-0399 • Email: sales@readymix.bb
Ready Mix Ltd, Lears, St. Michael. www.readymixbarbados.com
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SUSTAINABILITY:
Crucial to the Construction Industry Sustainability is very important for the future of our environment, but sometimes the cost can be a deterrent for clients. On a whole, the construction industry needs to find a better way to demonstrate that we can implement a more ecological design for the same price. Josée Atkinson President & CEO | Blueprint Management
Today the concept of sustainability is considered the cornerstone of the construction industry. Questions such as, what is the impact on the immediate environment, the community, and the world; all play an important role as we continuously seek to build and develop our countries. Sustainability therefore, takes into account the efficient use of resources as well as the means by which materials are sourced and the overall process used to complete the job. To further discuss the idea of ‘Green Construction’ we dive into the mind of Josée Atkinson, President & CEO of Blueprint Management.
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What challenges does green construction present across the Caribbean? The biggest challenge is the cost. With several economies continuing to unfold, many individuals have become increasingly conscious of how they spend. We believe that construction and maintenance should be fully integrated in order to give the client the best product once completed, in addition to the long-term maintenance. We encourage our clients to see the benefit of investing in a better, healthier, “green” building which will cost them less in maintenance in the long run. Having spent over 21 years in the construction industry, Josée believes that as a region we
are, slowly but surely, moving towards a more sustainable way of life given the incredible increase in awareness pertaining to sustainability and sustainable design practices. With almost everything now readily accessible online, many companies are adapting by now carrying out daily processes and routines electronically. “Everything has changed over the last ten years! When it comes to drawings, robotics have greatly improved and given us better software. I began using pencils, everything was hand drawn! A couple years later, a software was introduced and suddenly you can see a rendering that matches the quality of a picture! As more and more software has become available for
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design, we can now create perfect quality renders of buildings, and this process, as you can imagine, is much less time-consuming than drawing and saves a load of paper. We can now give our clients the very best, especially with 3-D printing models of our projects as well!” Why is sustainability such a crucial factor for the future of the industry? In regards to interiors, we are seeing an increase of companies moving out of “sick” buildings in search for better quality of air etc. Sustainability is a key factor when it comes to managing the interior of a building, producing a safe environment and creating spaces that are not conducive to making a “sick” environment. For example, many companies store hard copies of their documents in boxes in their offices. Over years, the paper and other materials grow bacteria and mold thus creating an unhealthy environment and atmosphere for the workers. With more sustainable processes, we will be able to reduce many other similar risk factors.
Given this Josée believes that there are a few small conscious steps which companies can make to endorse the eco-friendly approach. ◆
By adapting to better software despite the cost, the company can produce greater quantities and a higher standard of work, which in turn increases their revenue.
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Waste management during construction is extremely important. Many of the materials can be reused, recycled or even donated.
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Less use of plastic components. There are many environmentally friendly options available; for example, paper can be used for protection wrapping as opposed to plastic.
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Implementing automations that are available for building is a great eco-friendly tip. Using energy saving bulbs or lights with motion sensors can save electricity.
What practices has Blueprint Management adopted in efforts to “go green”? We are very environmentally conscious at Blueprint Management! Like many other companies, we are trying to cut down by printing less and printing double-sided when necessary, we scan documents and upload to the computer, have clients sign electronically where possible. What gives us an edge in the industry is that we aim to implement an ecologically-friendly and cost-effective approach to all of our projects. Our goal is to please our clients, integrate renewable energy into the design and provide them with a safe and healthy environment with minimum long-term maintenance expenses. This approach backed by a very strong group of unique individuals who work together as a team is truly how Blueprint manages to stand out. For further details call 1(246)573-8858, email us at info@blueprintbarbados.com, or visit www.blueprintbarbados.com. Written by Ariana da Silva
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READY BLOCK
Having been in the manufacturing of building blocks since 1971, Ready Block Ltd will continue to develop new ideas and methods to make building safer and more environmentally friendly for the Barbados landscape.
Developing the Barbados Landscape
Ready Block is one of the leading suppliers of Barbados’ primary construction staple, concrete blocks. These blocks come in a multitude of sizes and upon order confirmation, is delivered straight to site for customer and project management convenience. It is the company’s ability to manufacture, sell and deliver quality concrete blocks backed by superior customer service that puts them at the top of the market. CONCRETE BLOCKS The concrete block has remained the most common construction material on the island. With the Caribbean subject to a history of disasters ranging from floods to hurricanes, it is a top priority that the materials used in the construction of our built environment are as structurally sound and disaster resilient as possible. At its core, concrete block construction has been a staple in achieving this in Barbados, and throughout the Caribbean.
Block Construction
PRECAST VS. BLOCK CONSTRUCTION When it comes down to it, the defining factor between precast and block work construction is whether the priority lies in cost or time management. Pre-cast concrete has an almost doubled increase product price with lower installation costs. Block work, on the other hand, comes at a significantly less cost, with funds being more directed towards the construction process. Despite the benefits of both, concrete block construction is still at its height in demand and is the leading material for residential projects. Benefits of concrete block construction include: ■ Structural longevity ■ Resistant to strong winds, floods,nand fire ■ Mold and termite resistance ■ Soundproofing ■ Insulation against cold and heat, reducing energy costs ■ Ideal for foundations and basement walls-stronger than poured concrete ■ Can be assembled quickly and reinforced with steel rods
Lego Blocks
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OMNIDEC PRECAST SYSTEM OMNIDEC is a Ready Block roofing and flooring system comprised of precast panels that provide the direct equivalent of an in-situ slab. This system can be installed in a variety of building types, including, commercial and industrial, public, and residential building projects. This process requires far less time than the traditional plywood sheet building method. This ease of installation of the OMNIDEC system has been highly rated by contractors at Ready Block for years.
Benefits of Omnidec Precast include: ■ Equally suitable for steel and concrete framed structures and masonry buildings ■ Designed to carry a wide range of loads ■ Electrical and plumbing services are easily accommodated ■ Protects you against ire for long periods ■ Large areas of floor can be erected in a short space of time CUSTOM LEGO BLOCKS AND CAPPING BLOCKS The Ready Block team has also begun experimenting with making precast stackable concrete lego blocks out of custom shaped molds, offering a simplistic construction solution for elemental jobs. This results in a faster, more accessible installation process. The blocks have the ability to be easily maneuvered, dismantled and reconfigured to serve a multitude of purposes and are a structurally sound system with zero need for steel reinforcement, groundwork or fixings, making them the ideal flexible building material. These can be used for: ■ Retaining walls ■ Flood defense walls ■ Agricultural plant buildings ■ Warehouses ■ Custom storage bays ■ Partition walls ■ Security blocks
Written by Michaela Gomes
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Home shown here was built using a mix of concrete blocks and Omnideck precast floor blocks from Ready Block Lmited.
Ready Block has been producing concrete blocks which meet consistent quality standards for building with concrete blocks include structural
be installed in a variety of building types and has been highly rated by contractors. Also available are customised concrete blocks or concrete ‘Lego’ blocks which can interlock and are perfect for storage bins retaining walls and more.
• Tel: 436-3959 or 836-0399 • Email: andrew@readymix.bb
BUILD IT RIGHT. HIGH QUALITY. COST EFFECTIVE. DESIGN FLEXIBILITY. GREAT SERVICE.
Ready Block Ltd, Lears, St. Michael. www.readymixbarbados.com
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Trends in Home Building and Design:
What’s on tap in
2018?
The heightened social, political, economic and environmental uncertainty of the current period has spawned leaps in innovation, heightened social and environmental consciousness and an enhanced focus on wellness and nondenominational spirituality. Home building and design trends have followed suit, resulting in the development of healthy, flexible and technologically connected living environments that have a calming influence on their inhabitants. The following predictions are based on data and consumer research and unlike short-lived fads, they are expected to grow and evolve in the coming years.
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Hidden Technology Smart home technology is the number one trend that influencers say home buyers will be looking for in the years ahead. The infrastructure of the connected home is seamlessly integrated and controlled via Wi-Fi enabled apps, thus going unseen. Day-to-day tasks such as the operation of blinds, locks, air conditions, sound systems, home security, sprinkler systems, camera, and sensors are all increasingly controlled via mobile apps. Artificial intelligence (AI) and voice control systems, enabled by Google, Alexa and Apple Home are also on the rise. Given the heightened technological dependence, homes are more frequently being outfitted with battery backup systems that integrate into a home’s electrical system, automatically taking over during a power outage.
Flexible Living Spaces With greater mobility and economic uncertainty, living spaces must adapt to rapidly changing needs. Dedicated rooms are beginning to serve as multipurpose spaces. The kitchen is becoming the epicentre of the home where families eat, cook and socialize. There has also been an upsurge in multi-purpose furniture and décor— items are being designed for portability, furnishings are increasingly doubling as storage and decorative objects often serve a purpose. Transitions between rooms and between the indoors and outdoors will be more seamless, with larger windows and glass doors and movable dividers, resulting in more open spaces.
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gardening are also trending as well as kitchens that emphasize healthy and fresh eating. Pantries are expanding to store fresh ingredients, reducing the need for oversized freezers.
Conscious Living According to research done by the National Association of Realtors in the United States, sustainability is a top concern to homebuyers. Architects and engineers are becoming increasingly aware of the ways our health is affected by synthetic materials and organic architecture and biodegradable materials are being integrated into the home design. Solar panels and energy efficient appliances are more common now than ever before as are technologies that encourage the three R’s (Reduce, Reuse and Recycle) and water conservation. Edible and herb gardens and indoor container
Joyful, Nurturing Spaces According to Allyson Rees, senior retail lifestyle editor at the World’s Global Style Network, “The world is a very scary place right now... I think people want to wrap themselves up in a blanket and feel safe.” As such, the minimalism and sterility of the homes of yesteryear have been replaced with comfort, colour and eclecticism. Accent colours of appliances and fixtures are shifting from muted whites and greys to the more emphatic black. Spa elements such as whirlpools, hot tubs and saunas have become increasingly prevalent. Larger windows and open living spaces are bringing the outside indoors. Feng Shui, Vástu Shástra, and other Eastern philosophies are
becoming more influential. These trends are also evident in the outdoors with the growth of therapeutic or reflection gardens and water features. Mental healing should be derived from one’s home and these trends are certainly indicative of that. Home building and design trends have been evolving for thousands of years and will continue to respond to the needs of our rapidly changing world. One trend that will continue to evolve is the incorporation of a green mindset, which will be facilitated by technological innovation and a celebration of the relaxing and healing aspects of nature; bringing the outside in, incorporating elements of serenity and embracing sustainability. We are moving beyond the commercial gimmicks of yesteryear and into a period of responsible, mindful living. Written by Daphne Ewing-Chow
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PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR THE 2018 HURRICANE SEASON “Have you seen the news?” Ziad Kazan, General Manager of Meridian Caribbean, rotates the screen on his desk so that I can take a read of recent meteorological reports. “Early predictions for 2018 reveal that there is an extremely high probability of an above normal hurricane season with greater activity and intensity than that in 2017,” I read incredulously.
“We learn from each natural disaster. Whether it’s a fire or a flood, we learn something from it so we can respond to the next one better.” - Malcolm Turnbull choice for hurricane proofing. uPVC is an excellent material because it is resistant to climatic changes—it is both rigid and weatherproof, and because it is wrapped around a core made up of galvanized steel and/or aluminium, its strength and firmness are further reinforced. These advantages also make it an excellent insulator, fire retardant and safeguard against intrusion.
Meridian Caribbean specializes in design, manufacture, installation and service of precision-engineered, Specialists have described the 2017 100% customised uPVC windows season as one of the most destructive, and doors. It is the primary uPVC intense and active on record, with producer in Barbados, and offers a peak winds exceeding 185 mph and variety of standard products including with tragic and devastating losses felt Single Hung Sash Windows, Slider throughout the region. It is difficult to Windows and Rehau Hurricane fathom the impact of a busier season. Ready Reinforced Windows. Meridian windows are reinforced “Tragically, with aluminium in the most people “Early predictions meeting rail, sashes and underestimate frames which prevents for 2018 reveal that the risk and some flying object from there is an extremely gravity of severe breaking any part of events,” says high probability of windows. Standard film Kazan. “If there an above normal covering, on the other is anything that hurricane season hand, does not protect 2017 has taught homes from flying debris. with greater activity us, it is that The multiple chamber, 3 and intensity than we have to ¼” thick frame, gives the be proactive.” that in 2017” window extra rigidity to stay strong. Kazan is passionate about the weather and has The doors at Meridian Caribbean devoted his work to providing costare also available in an extensive effective, high quality, customizable variety of styles and are extremely solutions to safeguard homes. tasteful, durable and energy efficient. The team at Meridian is always The structural integrity of areas that on the quest for new provide a bridge between the internal ways to innovate; and external environment of a home is it is no wonder that of the utmost priority during a storm. they received the Windows and doors are extremely coveted awards of vulnerable to wind and water Small Business of the damage—if they are compromised, Year for 2017 as well homeowners stand to experience the Manufacturer of major losses to their interiors the year, 2017. and belongings. Un-plasticized poly vinyl chloride or uPVC windows and doors are the best 23 | www.constructioncaribbean.com
Goddard’s Enterprise Ltd.
bespoke solutions to fit our customers’ aesthetic tastes and lifestyles,” explains Kazan. “There is no need to make a compromise between the beauty of your home and the integrity of your windows and doors.” Kazan takes me for a tour of the facility—a state of the art purpose built factory with advanced machinery and production techniques to ensure optimal quality. The welding process is particularly fascinating—it is so precise that the frame is fused into a single structure so that water is unable to pass through the joints. The strength of the products also makes them resistant to breakage, corrosion and the effects of the wind, salt and sun. “It’s impossible to fully predict the severity of high winds, rains and debris; however, it’s important that we prepare ourselves for the worst,” says Kazan. “It is no longer a luxury to install the strongest and most disaster resilient infrastructure to mitigate the impact of storms and hurricanes—it is a necessity.”
Private Residence
“We are able to provide a variety of Written by Daphne Ewing-Chow
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