Refurb Renovation News - Issue 41

Issue 41 2020

REYNAERS helps to create panoramic views across London

DESIGN ENGINE ARCHITECTS

WINTON CHAPEL, UNIVERSITY OF WINCHESTER

GEZE DOORS HIT THE

RIGHT NOTE

EMPORIO BAGNO BY

NOCODE

Willmott Dixon Interiors agrees £39m London South Bank University fit-out

Howe Green

supplies floor access covers for inspirational university building

MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC THE HOME OF THE FUTURE – NOW.

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BIGGER, BOLDER, MORE BEAUTIFUL

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ARCHITECT@WORK LONDON 2020

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THE 2020 BATHROOM TRENDS TO LOOK OUT FOR

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MAJOR TRANSFORMATION TO CREATE AN ‘URBAN OASIS’ AT MANCHESTER’S LOWRY HOUSE

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EARTHBORN’S HISTORIC PAINT COLOURS

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SURFACE DESIGN SHOW 2020 – THE BEST IN MATERIAL INNOVATION

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MADE.COM RELEASES 11 IDEAS TO TURN A RENTED HOUSE INTO A HOME

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SIKALASTIC RAPID PROVIDES TOP CLASS SOLUTION FOR RIBA LEARNING CENTRE

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FRESH IDEAS FOR INTERIOR DOORS IN 2020

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KEMPER SYSTEM HELPS TO RESTORE HISTORIC EDWARDIAN MANSION

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CRITTALL SCREENS AT THE HEART OF NEW INNOVATION CENTRE

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PROJECT: WINTON CHAPEL, UNIVERSITY OF WINCHESTER

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REYNAERS HELPS TO CREATE PANORAMIC VIEWS ACROSS LONDON

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EUROBRICK: A BRICK FINISH WITH I-CLAD AT THE HOXTON

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FUTUREBUILD 2020: BE THE CATALYST FOR CHANGE

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IQL’S PAVILION TOPS OUT AFTER JUST 14 WEEKS OF SUPERSTRUCTURE WORKS

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SCOTTISH WINTERS DICTATE UPGRADE TO LEGACY CAST ALUMINIUM GUTTERING ON REFURBISHMENT

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MODERN GLAZING BRINGS NEW LIFE TO VICTORIAN GATEHOUSE AS STUDENT HUB

Contents Lapthorn Media Ltd

Editor Maria Lapthorn editor@rrnews.co.uk

Designer Laura Whitehead laura@rrnews.co.uk

Editorial Assistant Francesca Amato editorial@rrnews.co.uk

Website Content Robert Turner rob@lapthornmedia.co.uk

Editorial Assistant Angel Manderson angel@rrnews.co.uk

Circulation Manager Leo Phillips subs@rrnews.co.uk

Tel: 01843 808 102

Sales Manager David Valentine david@rrnews.co.uk

Accounts Richard Lapthorn accountsdept@rrnews.co.uk

www.rrnews.co.uk

Sales Assistant Jane Parker jane@rrnews.co.uk

Publishing Director Paul Attwood paul@rrnews.co.uk

5-7 Ozengell Place Eurokent Business Park Ramsgate CT12 6PB

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Issue 41 - 2020

very effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in Refurb & Renovation News however, the publishers accept no responsibility for the claims or opinions made by advertisers, manufactures or contributors.

No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, mechanical, electronic (including photocopying) or stored in any information retrieval system without the prior consent of the publisher.

Company News City Relay announce appointment of Steven Kearney as Chief Financial Officer City Relay, one of London’s leading short let property management services companies, has today announced the appointment of Steven Kearney as their Chief Financial Officer.

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he appointment of Steven Kearney further cements the strength of City Relay’s leadership team as the company enhances its status as a key player in the short-term lettings market. Steven will be working closely alongside other recently appointed senior team members, Simon Kingsnorth, Chief Marketing Officer and Erskine Berry, Head of B2B. Steven joins City Relay from Next Ventures, where he was Finance Director and had a successful track record of increasing revenues, reducing costs and improving EBITA. He has also held senior positions at organisations including PwC, Intrapay, Gett and TSYS. In his 13 years working in diverse and challenging business sectors, including start up high-tech and more recently Fintech PSP, he has developed excellent knowledge of accounting regulations, with the proven ability to ensure full compliance.

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This announcement comes shortly after the company received substantial investment funding which is already driving its expansion and presence across London. City Relay has just opened a second Reception Space in Shepherd’s Bush, where face-to-face advice and guidance to residential property owners and their guests is provided. This is a first in the short-term letting industry, and there are ambitious plans to open more Reception Spaces across the rest of capital.

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The company has also recently announced the acquisition of industry leading yield management software OutSwitch.

Built with professional property managers in mind, OutSwitch provide users with the ease of having both revenue and operations management systems simplified into one platform, enabling a more streamlined and simplified approach. The platform allows City Relay to hone in on both yield and operations management, aspects often overlooked in traditional management services companies.

City Relay has cemented its reputation as a market leader in operational efficiency, offering property management services that are almost akin to a 5* hotel concierge including housekeeping, fresh pressed linen, the provision of luxury amenities, property maintenance and face to face check-ins.

Commenting on his new role, Steven Kearney, Chief Financial Officer said: “I am thrilled to join City Relay as Chief Financial Officer and I am very impressed with the company’s unique business model. This is an exciting time for the business as the short-term letting market is growing rapidly, and I am looking forward to contributing to City Relay’s continued future success.”

Maxime Leufroy-Murat, Founder and Chief Executive of City Relay, added:

“The strength of our leadership team is a top priority, and Steven Kearney joins at an exciting time as we continue our expansion across London. Steven’s extensive experience across a range of sectors will be a great asset to the business and I look forward to working closely with him.”

LEGAL & GENERAL INVESTS £750M INTO DEVELOPING NEW AFFORDABLE HOUSING Legal & General Affordable Homes appoints former CapCo Director, Anette Simpson, as Director of Development and Partnerships as it continues its ambitious expansion.

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egal & General Affordable Homes announces that it has committed £750m to new affordable housing projects throughout the UK, increasing its development pipeline to nearly 3,500 homes, across 41 schemes. Legal & General Affordable Homes has undergone significant expansion over the last year as it strives to become the UK’s leading Institutional Registered Provider (IRP), with the business growing from five to fifty five employees.

Legal & General Affordable Homes’ latest appointment, Anette Simpson, has joined the business as Director of Developments and Partnerships. Previously Group Planning Director at CapCo, Simpson will lead and coordinate the direct delivery of Legal & General’s affordable housing schemes and oversee all aspects of development to legal completion.

The UK continues to suffer a growing crisis as 1.1 million households remain on waiting lists for affordable homes. One in three low income earners have had to borrow money to pay their rent and the steep decline in social housing has led to huge increases in government welfare costs, as well as rising homelessness.

Legal & General remains committed to leading the evolution of the affordable housing sector, raising service standards and deploying longterm institutional capital to increase provision.

Across its growing portfolio, it is delivering a mix of social and affordable rental homes, grant-supported shared ownership homes and Section 106 schemes; as sole ventures and in partnership with best-in-class housing associations.

Legal & General Affordable Homes’ also welcomed its first residents in October, with move ins commencing at its Bickland Water Road scheme in Falmouth, Cornwall, managed

by Housing Association, Coastline Housing.

Company News

PERMAROOF REVEALS ITS EXCITING GROWTH PLANS FOLLOWING STRATEGIC APPOINTMENT THE UK’s leading importer and distributor of Firestone RubberCover roofing products, Permaroof, has made a strategic appointment to its sales team in line with its ambitious expansion plans – with the firm also looking to fill a further four vacancies due to its continued growth.

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erry O’Hare – who has more than 25 years’ experience in sales, with around 16 years being within the roofline and fenestration industry – has joined Permaroof as regional sales manager, covering the south of England to help cement and further develop the firm’s presence in the region through strong relationships with both merchant stockists and installers.

Permaroof, which has its head office in Alfreton, Derbyshire, has grown rapidly since it started trading as a family business in 1999. Over the past five years, the firm has tripled its turnover organically and, at the start of this year, made its first acquisition, adding the UK’s leading skylight and rooflight supplier, The Skylight Company, to its ranks.

Terry – who previously worked at SIG Building Plastics/General All-Purpose Plastics (GAP) for 10 years, where he specialised in flat roofing – said: “This is an exciting time to be joining Permaroof. The company has big plans for the future and I’m looking forward to being part of those ambitions.

“I pride myself on delivering a high standard of service and offering an individual and tailored customer approach. Sales is a fascinating industry as it’s people-focused, meaning that no two days are the same. The growth opportunities in the south of England are unbelievable and I’m exciting to start raising Permaroof’s profile in this area and showcasing what the firm has to offer to a new customer base.”

Permaroof, which currently employs more than 32 people across the country, is also looking to fill an additional four sales roles for the south east, as well as internal sales positions, by the end of October.

“The growth opportunities in the south of England are unbelievable and I’m exciting to start raising Permaroof’s profile in this area and showcasing what the firm has to offer to a new customer base.”

Managing director Adrian Buttress said: “Terry’s appointment is a statement of our ambition. He knows the sales industry inside out and for him to join us speaks volumes about our success and plans for the future.

“I’m delighted to welcome Terry to our experienced team as we continue to grow and expand our presence, staff numbers and product offering.”

Pete Manning has been appointed National Sales Manager for Sika-Trocal

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e began his new role on November 1st, stepping-up from the Marketing Manager’s position he held within Sika roofing.

“It’s incredibly exciting to be given this new challenge,” Pete said.

Having started his Sika career in 2005 within the marketing team for Liquid

Pete, 40, whose new, field-based role involves supporting Sika-Trocal’s seven area technical managers, said: It’s an everchanging fast-paced market environment, so being as close to our customers as possible allows us to respond to these changes and give our customers exactly what they need.

Sika-Trocal’s fantastic product range gives us a distinct advantage and we’re also fortunate to have a superb team of area mangers who have built-up a brilliant longterm relationship with our customers. This is something we want to continue to nurture”

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“I’m looking forward to bringing some of my background experience and new ideas to the role, as well as being involved in product development and developing strong relationships.“

Plastics, Pete became Marketing Manager for the company’s roofing division in 2014.

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Bigger, Bolder, More Beautiful London property renovation specialist MyEdge2.com has recently completed the structural renovation and interior refurbishment of a capacious two-floor Regency home in Kensington.

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arloes Road, has been transformed from being tired, gloomy and impractical to a light, airy and welcoming home for a professional couple. The space has been maximised and through floor design tweaks the property now boasts an additional bathroom and a study.

The project was the vision of Julian Prieto, founder and head designer of MyEdge2.com, who worked closely with the clients to create a contemporary space to compliment both their personal and professional lives. Key was enhancing the building’s 19th Century heritage.

Reimagining the Interior The initial layout was passé and, in parts, counter-intuitive. For example, the positioning an upstairs bathroom allowed for a clear line of site from the landing and awkward access to the master bedroom.

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Equally, on the ground floor, the separation of rooms was distinctly old-fashioned with a poky kitchen and partially separated dining and drawing rooms which limited daylight.

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The client’s top consideration was making the space more usable and improving the “flow”. The pared-back colour scheme, focus on enhancing daylight levels and restricted material palette were key. One of the most significant changes was moving the kitchen from the rear of the apartment, transforming the spacious but under-

used double drawing room into a modern kitchen-diner and living area.

The ‘old’ kitchen is now a study.

Heritage features have been maintained throughout, the finely detailed Victorian fireplaces remain a key feature and the stunning parquet floors were re-laid. Contemporary details have also been included to tie the scheme together including a multi-functional kitchen island in polished granite, and engineered wood cabinetry.

Responding to a request from the client to create a greater amount of storage space in the kitchen, the design incorporated floor to ceiling cupboards.

A flush fit was achieved by relevelling both the floor and the ceiling.

The kitchen flows seamlessly into the living room space which is versatile.

Dramatic double height and width doors provide an imposing entrance to the open plan living room and kitchen.

By moving the kitchen this organically created another room, which the couple could use as a home office, immediately increasing the property value by £60,000.

Combined with the other renovation work the couple has increased the value of the apartment by over £400,000 in total.

Big, Bold and Beautiful Whilst much of the property would be inspired by Scandinavian design, the scheme does incorporate some striking pops of colour. Focusing on the

bathroom, these rooms serve as captivating visual statements, breaking up the otherwise ultra-refined decor.

Working closely with the client, Julian introduced the growing trend for uber-chic dyed concrete, eschewing pastels which would have been washed out by the rest of the property’s palette. He focused instead on darker, moody tones to create intense bathrooms with a unique atmosphere, evoking the vivid works of Mark Rothko and Yves Klein.

Responding to a request from the client to create a greater amount of storage space in the kitchen, the design incorporated floor to ceiling cupboards.

Structurally, he also addressed the inconvenient positioning of the en-suite door in the master bedroom. It was moved by 90 degrees making its only access from within the bedroom, adding a welcome degree of privacy.

The downstairs loo boasts a very different aesthetic, drawing on the clients personal passion for the Italian Renaissance. Visually it is an eclectic room, oozing personality and breaks away from the otherwise largely neutral downstairs space. A monochrome tiled floor and a striking sink real clamshell skin sits on a beautifully opulent Doric column pedestal, creating an artisan inspired aesthetic which is almost dreamlike as it is so far removed from the surrounding décor. A local artist is soon to create a Rococo mural.

Location

South Kensington

Let there be light

Type of project

Full house remodelling and renovation

Architect

N/A

Structural engineer

Anne Bermingham Structural

Glazing

Camden Box frame

Main contractor

EDGE2.COM properties

Interior designer

EDGE2.COM properties

The design has focused on bringing a much light as possible into the triple-aspect property. The internal doors are double height, encouraging natural light to flood the property. The opening between the kitchen and the living room was widened significantly, using an RSJ for structural integrity.

Developer

EDGE2.COM properties

Previously the space was gloomy, and claustrophobic.

Kitchen Units

Halcyon Interiors

Bathroom finish

EDGE2.COM properties, Matki & Lusso Stone

Split Personality

Start on site date

June 2018

Completion date

March 2019

Gross internal floor area

120 m2

In addition to the heavily stylised downstairs lavatory, the bedrooms demonstrate a design juxtaposition within the property.

It is in these private spaces where the individual personalities of the client’s exudes. The master bedroom is drenched in beautifully rustic antique elegance, while the guest bedroom showcases their adoration of immaculate and ultra-minimalist Japanese interior design.

The downstairs loo boasts a very different aesthetic, drawing on the clients personal passion for the Italian Renaissance.

Master Craftsman Throughout the project, Julian sought to incorporate bespoke elements to the interiors of Marloes Road. The need to replace the old staircases and the new double heights of the door frames presented the perfect opportunity to showcase his passion and admiration for the master artisan.

The doors were bespoke manufactured in MyEdge2.com it their North London workshop. Hand-crafted, with American Oak veneers they were specifically designed to be double height (2.6 mtrs) and incorporated both oblique and parallel lines to create an interesting geometric pattern.

This added another, subtle point of visual interest to the interiors.

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The steps of the staircase required a high degree of precision, laser cut to the exact millimetre so each would slot perfectly into position. Complemented by the original, intricately wrought iron banisters, it perfectly juxtaposed the old and the new, simultaneously referencing the timeless appeal of skilled craftsmanship.

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Emporio Bagno by NoCode UK based NoCode curates tap and showering solutions, chosen for their beautiful design and superior quality and these are showcased in the Emporio Bagno collection.

All brassware products are designed and made in Italy and undergo rigorous testing to ensure consistent high quality and enduring performance.

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mporio Bagno offers a wide selection of designs, colour finishes and installations. EcoAir options are available for shower installations where water conservation is a key issue.

The VersoBox shower valve is available in on trend colour finishes, with a plating service offered for more customised looks. Different handle options also add to the versatility in terms of design. Shower valves are on an ultra slim 70mm back plate and the new VersoBox Plus is even more minimalist with valves on individual trims for a stunning look. With an impressive shallow depth of between 70–90mm, VersoBox can be used in any type of wall.

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The performance element is impressive with a 2 outlet shower valve delivering 39.6 lt/min at 3 bar water pressure. Shower valves will perform at a low minimum pressure of 0.2 bar with high flow rates for an invigorating water experience.

Thermostatic mixer arrangements can be customised for bathroom project requirements.

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The VersoBox shower valve is available in on trend colour finishes, with a plating service offered for more customised looks. Different handle options also add to the versatility in terms of design.

Showering options range from basic shower heads to luxurious ceiling mounted chromotherapy heads with rain, mist and cascade settings.

Shower kits can be colour matched with Emporio Bagno tap finishes – this allows for a truly coordinated bathroom look.

Tap ranges have flexibility in design and installation options, covering contemporary and modern traditional styling. Two new tap ranges have been launched for 2019 - Senso and Entro. Senso features knurled handles for a comfortable grip and Entro features a sleek control mechanism for a stylish modern look. The Emporio Bagno collection will be extended with more new products launched in the early part of 2020, including a new range of push button shower valves.

020 8685 6815 www.nocode.co.uk

Kitchen trends for 2020 With more than 25 years of experience in the industry, Paul Jenkinson, Founder and Managing Director of British kitchen brand LochAnna Kitchens has his finger on the pulse when it comes to predicting the next big thing. “2019 was all about choice,” comments Paul Jenkinson. “2020 will mark the beginning of a new decade in terms of kitchen technology and design and we have high expectations.”

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rom clever storage to the next generation of kitchen layouts, Paul shares his predictions and top tips on how to refresh your kitchen space in the “20s”.

Vivid colours LochAnna Kitchens has seen a growing interest in brave yet tasteful colours in the kitchen. From vivid greens to deep purples, it is becoming more and more popular to bring colour into the kitchen. Founder and Managing Director of LochAnna Kitchens, Paul Jenkinson, says: “We have seen a rise in the number of homeowners opting for a bright and colourful kitchen which is a big move away from the simple grey and white kitchens.

We predict that the combination of vibrant colours with natural woodgrains and stone will prove to be a very popular choice for 2020.”

Timber & timber effect As we move into 2020, there will be a continued growth in painted timbers and timber effect finishes. Sinead Trainor, Kitchen Category Manager for LochAnna Kitchens says: “In recent years we have seen a real growth in the popularity of manmade doors, panels and worktops that emulate the appearance of real wood for a luxurious feel in your kitchen. With this growing trend, we are proud at LochAnna to see so many customers intrigued by our timber effects for kitchens and worktops, not necessarily just because of their likeness to wood, but also as a style piece in itself that is both stunning and functional.”

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Statement pieces

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More than ever before, kitchens are a social space which act as the hub of the home. Open plan living is on the rise and by sharing furniture with other rooms, the social aspect of the kitchen will significantly increase. The kitchen, living room and dining area are merging into one space and by creating this large, open room, the family can spend more time together. Sinead says: “The trend for open or broken plan kitchens sees homeowners extend the kitchen into connected areas of the home. Using LochAnna furniture, designers can get really creative, introducing integrated seating areas or even media centres in connected spaces. This can make the kitchen seem larger and is a great way to create cohesion in the overall design.”

Natural worktop effects While vivid and vibrant coloured cabinetry will be a key trend for the new year, LochAnna predicts that light stone and marble effect worktops will be a popular choice. Sinead says: “Acrylic and solid surface worktops are starting to emulate more and more the look of authentic stone and natural surfaces. We predict that this trend will continue to grow, especially with the introduction of surfaces showing bold marble vein patterns, helping to create a cost-effective yet luxurious appearance in the kitchen.”

Designing in features and bespoke pieces Open shelves and bespoke storage will be a popular choice for 2020 as these add interest to the kitchen and create the sense that the space is more open than it is. In a minimalist kitchen, these shelves give you the option to show off your best buys without creating any clutter and can be decorated with anything from plants to crockery. Boot rooms are also a fantastic way of creating a functional space that the whole family can use, keeping mud and mess in one place.

Clever storage The trend for clever storage is rising due to the practicality it offers. From bi-fold dressers to tower and corner larders, storage can be both a design and practical trend.

Paul comments on this: “Storage is, and will continue to be, a big part of the kitchen space.

For those with smaller kitchens, the need for clever storage in the kitchen is crucial in terms of efficiently utilising the room you have. In bigger, minimalist kitchens, clever storage allows for clutter to be easily tidied away. Even an island or breakfast bar can work as both a storage area and a place for dining.”

Accessories The best way to accentuate a kitchen design is by adding in colourful, complementary accessories to the space. 2020 will see light, bright metallic colours as a key design trend which will be best utilised through the clever pairing of accessories. Gold, copper and bronze accents look to be popular colour choices when it comes to door handles, taps and even sinks. Paul says: “2020 will be the year of gold, copper and bronze accents in the home. However, it’s important that you don’t overdo it with these colours and remember that a little goes a long way.”

MIAN ™

DESIGN SOLUTIONS FROM FRONT TO BACK

Ultra thin, push fit wall plate for easy second fix assembly

Style choices for wall plate and control dials

Separate On/Off divert, temperature and bath fill controls Sculptured one piece flat backed brass body

Supplied with mortar guard and all pipework connections. Fully serviceable from the front.

The striking new Mian range from Aqualisa offers a stylish choice of dual control thermostatic mixer showers and accessories, suitable for all approved UK water systems and with a comprehensive 5 year parts and labour guarantee.

Once registered, our showers are covered by a 5 year parts and labour guarantee For access to Aqualisa BIM objects visit nationalbimlibrary.com/en/aqualisa-products-ltd

Contact projects@aqualisa.co.uk

Kitchens & Bathrooms

OUTSTANDING PRACTICAL SURFACES BRITISH KITCHEN BRAND LOCHANNA KITCHENS MARKS ITS FIFTH SUCCESSFUL YEAR OF TRADING

Combining a flawlessly smooth finish with outstanding practical qualities, Staron’s award-winning and revolutionary solid surface was specified throughout the kitchen of this modern family home.

LochAnna Kitchens is celebrating five successful years of trading since it launched in November 2014 as a dedicated kitchen supplier aiming to make selling kitchens easier and more profitable for kitchen retailers and their installers. Five years on, Founder and Managing Director, Paul Jenkinson is delighted to report the business is going from strength to strength, with 2019 seeing continued growth despite unpredictable market conditions.

The centrepiece of this project is the impressive, oversized kitchen island, which brings concealed functionality into the heart of the home. Using Staron’s Sanded Heron in a 12mm thickness, the island cleverly hides an impressive uprising within its centre. When the middle is electronically raised it reveals useful storage space including a cooking station, a study nook, a media tech zone and a bar.

When the centrepiece is closed, the Staron worktops meet again to create one large, seamless island surface.

Staron’s light grey and smooth Fog is used for the remaining kitchen surfaces. The unique make up of Staron results in a surface that offers outstanding practical qualities, providing an innovative material that is both hygienic and durable in equal measure. The rare qualities of the material offer total flexibility, allowing the surface to be wrapped around the window, bench tops, side walls of the cabinetry and underside of the bulkhead for a seamless finish, which is not only hygienic but also reflects light around the room. LED strip lighting is recessed into the unique Staron material, creating a beautiful ambience.

The use of Staron enables clean lines in the space delivering a minimalistic look, while the colour provides an urban, yet coastal feel, which perfectly links the kitchen to its natural surroundings. www.staron.uk.com

EVERYBODY IS GOING TO STRAWBERRY FIELD 25/11/2019

RRN120043 Staron QP.indd 1

into a responsible tourist attraction that will support local people and businesses.

Strawberry Field, the Salvation Army centre in Liverpool immortalised by John Lennon, has seen the investment of some £8m in the creation of the first ever visitor facilities on the site, alongside a place for spiritual reflection and vocational training & work placement hub- Steps to Work- for young people with learning disabilities and other barriers to employment.

“The Salvation Army ran a children’s home at Strawberry Field from 1936 until 2005. In that time, we helped some of Liverpool’s most vulnerable children.

Today, we are using Strawberry Field to give Liverpool’s young people a step onto the employment ladder. I like to think that John Lennon would be pleased that his special association with Strawberry Field is being used in this way.”

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Changing Places toilets provide more space and equipment than conventional wheelchair-accessible WCs, to meet the needs of people of all ages who need help to deal with their intimate hygiene.

Closomat’s installation at Strawberry Field gives users a peninsular WC with a full room cover ceiling track hoist, height adjustable adult-sized changing bench, height adjustable washbasin, and privacy screen, in a 12m2 room.

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Julia Baird, John Lennon’s sister and Honorary President of the Strawberry Field project, said: “I’ve been really impressed by The Salvation Army’s vision and now there is huge potential to make a real change in the lives of young people who will grow in the precious soil of Strawberry Field.”

Salvation Army Territorial Commander, Commissioner Anthony Cotterill said: “John Lennon found sanctuary here as a child and that’s exactly what we want to offer by opening the Strawberry Field gates for good. We know thousands of Beatles fans already visit the site and we saw an opportunity to channel that interest

“In 2019 alone, we launched more than 70 new door choices. We look forward to marking the turn of the new decade with some exciting product developments – what we believe will be true firsts for the industry – and our first ever presence at KBB Birmingham where we look forward to meeting both current and prospective retailers”.

10:30:08

An iconic landmark that has never been open to the public will open its gates for the first time. And it will be open to ALL, in part because of its WCs….

To ensure all users can make the most of their time there, a Changing Places toilet facility has been supplied and installed by Closomat.

Paul Jenkinson comments on the celebrations: “This month marks five years of trading and I’m pleased to say that business is good. Since launching with a relatively small and straightforward 20 door options in 2014, we have evolved into a wellknown kitchen brand across independent retailers who value us for our fantastic, British heritage, and beautifully designed kitchens. We now have 269 choices across our three kitchen brands, so our customers really are spoilt for choice. From humble beginnings opening the doors with the help of 20 staff, today we’re a team of 39 and have a network of more than 150 retailer partners.

Under British Standards (BS8300:2018), it is best practice to provide a Changing Places toilet in addition to conventional accessible facilities in buildings where the public spend time. The Government is also reviewing making them an obligatory requirement in new buildings or major refurbishments. Closomat has become the leader in the design, supply, installation and subsequent maintenance of Changing Places; its website www.closomat.co.uk is now the go to’ location for support information for all involved in the specification and build process, with NBS specifications, CAD blocks, white papers and guidance notes all available for free download.

Closomat Telephone: 0161 969 1199, Email: info@clos-o-mat.com, Website: www.closomat.co.uk

THE 2020 BATHROOM TRENDS TO LOOK OUT FOR UK bathrooms are the smallest in Europe so whilst you are working within a confined area, you don’t want style over substance.

Make the most of your space, with a statement mirror. Round mirrors have been popular in bathrooms in recent years, jostling rectangular framed mirrors out of the way.

With 2019 dominated by industrial yet minimalist designs, 2020 is set to be an exciting year when it comes to interior bathroom trends.

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imon Cornelius, Head of Marketing at Methven UK, discusses the emerging bathroom designs set to take 2020 by storm.

Moody tones are set to take over, with the gothic look set to be at the forefront of both bathroom and kitchen design for 2020.

Consumers can keep the look modern and fresh by opting for accompanying textured porcelain tiles, which will also add a sense of depth.

Make a big impression with a small space. UK bathrooms are the smallest in Europe so whilst you are working within a confined area, you don’t want style over substance. Make the most of your space, with a statement mirror. Round mirrors have been popular in bathrooms in recent years, jostling rectangular framed mirrors out of the way. Standout, curvaceous mirrors will continue to be a trend in 2020.

Statement lighting is a popular interior trend and the latest innovations mean that you don’t have to completely overhaul a bathroom in order to make a difference. Don’t be afraid to go big and bold, most rooms can afford to use slightly larger lighting. Big chandeliers and giant floor lamps are all very much on trend for those who like their lighting to make a statement.

The use of metallic products is an exciting trend that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere. A unique and versatile medium, you can find accessories that replicate almost every different type of material, therefore it comes as no surprise that designers are choosing this to create stunning metal effects throughout the home. Not only are we seeing many recently introduced ranges inspired by precious metals such as gold, silver and bronze, but there is also a huge demand for more rustic interpretations of metal, such as worn and weathered iron, copper and steel coloured products and accessories which will suit an aesthetic inspired by urban and industrial trends.

Designed to bring a touch of glamorous extravagance to any bathroom, the new Türoa metallic collection is the perfect example.

Available in sophisticated gunmetal black, lustrous graphite and rich gold, this beautiful new collection combines long-lasting materials, eco friendly finishes and significant water saving benefits.

For more information, visit www.methven.com/uk or tweet us at @MethvenUK.

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In addition to its stunning aesthetics, Methven’s Türoa collection also offers significant water saving benefits thanks to it V-Jet® spray technology. Delivering a water-saving flow rate of 9 litres per minute with wide-spray coverage, Türoa conserves water without compromising on performance and features an intuitive control which allows the user to seamlessly transition from a firm, invigorating spray to a gentle, enveloping warmth.

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Company News ECOLIGHTING PROUD TO ACHIEVE NEW ISO CERTIFICATION LED lighting specialist EcolightingUK is ending 2019 on a high as the company has recently been recognised as complying with the ISO:14001 and latest ISO:9001 standards.

GROHE is one of Germany’s Top Three Most Sustainable Big Companies Top 3 placement for GROHE at the German Sustainability Award

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t the German Sustainability Award ceremony on 22 November 2019 in Düsseldorf, GROHE secured a placement among the top 3 in the category “Germany’s Most Sustainable Big Companies 2020” thanks to its 360-degree sustainability approach and, above all, its progress in saving resources. “We are proud that our holistic sustainability approach, which we integrate into all of GROHE’s areas of activity, has enabled us to achieve a top ranking at the German Sustainability Award,” says Thomas Fuhr, CEO of Grohe AG. “Our daily experience shows that economic success and sustainable business practice do not have to be mutually exclusive. This award confirms our consistent pursuit of our sustainability goals and at the same time motivates us to further increase our commitment.”

For the twelfth time the German Sustainability Award Foundation awarded companies that combine economic success with social responsibility and environmental protection in an exemplary manner last Friday. The jury particularly praised GROHE’s commitment to saving resources. A successful example is the recycling rate of above 96 percent. Moreover, GROHE is also the first leading sanitary brand to offer the

possibility of manufacturing material-saving fittings with the aid of innovative solutions, such as the manufacture of products with a 3D metal printer, which allows for weight savings of up to 55 percent.

GROHE’s greatest lever for sustainability, however, is in the product’s use: a person’s daily water consumption can thus be reduced by up to 50 percent with the help of products equipped with GROHE EcoJoy flow-limiting technology. The result: a family of four can save up to 31,400 litres of water per year this way.

GROHE’s Production Plants to become CO2Neutral Worldwide by 2020 GROHE does not want to rest on its laurels and is setting new standards in the industry with yet another important step, which was positively acknowledged by the jury: as the first leading manufacturer in the sanitary industry, GROHE has set itself the goal of achieving CO2-neutral production at all production sites worldwide as part of the “GROHE goes ZERO” project. In July, all five global production sites and the logistics centres in Germany were therefore converted to green electricity.

With the start of the new fiscal year in April 2020, the sanitary manufacturer will offset unavoidable CO2 emissions by means of two compensation projects.

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“The award has shown us that we have already taken important steps to achieve our ambitious sustainability goals. At the same time, manufacturers such as GROHE are more than ever asked to assume responsibility, which is why we want to use measures such as “GROHE goes ZERO” to provide further impetus within the industry and thus actively promote greater sustainability,” says Thomas Fuhr.

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In recent years, GROHE has repeatedly achieved top placements at the German Sustainability Award. Furthermore, the sanitary brand was presented with the CSR Award of the German Federal Government in 2017 and GROHE CEO Thomas Fuhr was honoured with the B.A.U.M Environment and Sustainability Award by the B.A.U.M. corporate network in September 2019.

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anaging Director, Steve Gardner, is delighted with the company’s progress, commenting, “Last year we won some significant projects around the country allowing us to continue to invest in our people and our products.

“With the development of our team into key operational roles, this will strengthen our scope, capacity and expertise in pre-sales, delivery and quality.”

Having been a finalist in a number of awards throughout the year, Ecolighting has attended many awards evenings and a major logistics exhibition during the last few months and has also been recognising the achievements of its staff.

The company has also recently achieved ISO:14001:2015, which is the international standard that specifies requirements for an effective environmental management system (EMS). The updated 2015 standard sets out the criteria for an environmental management system that a company or organisation can follow, and receiving certification shows that Ecolighting is prepared for any current and future challenges. This was recognised alongside gaining the updated ISO:9001:2015 standard.

2019 has also been a year that Ecolighting has concentrated on expansion, and has been busy developing a large area of its site. A new office area and breakout space has been created so that employees have somewhere to go to wind down in a more informal setting. Staff wellbeing is a priority for the business, so it is pleased to invest in its staff so that they can continue to thrive and can enjoy time off in more pleasant surroundings.

Following on from the expansion of its current team earlier this year, Ecolighting was also delighted to hear that that one of its electrical team had won Apprentice of the Year at an awards ceremony in Loughborough.

Dirk Lettinga, who came to Ecolighting from Loughborough College, beat three other finalists to receive the award during the summer, and continues to be a valuable asset to the company.

More recently, Ecolighting has been planning for 2020 and is looking to exhibit at a number of high profile shows over the next 12 months. The company also sponsored the Environment award at the Logistics Leadership awards in Solihull earlier this month, and was happy to present Sky TV / Unipart with the award for their part in removing single piece plastic from their supply chain.

Bricks & Blocks New StoBrick launch extends options for Architects and Building Designers The launch of a new cladding product for externally insulated building façadeshas expanded the wide range of design options available from Sto UK, a leading external wall insulation system designer.

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eveloped in response to a demand for a brick cladding solution for use with mineral-fibre based insulation systems, StoBrick gives architects a far greater opportunity to incorporate genuine clay brick finishes into their façade designs, achieving the required A2-s1, d0 fire rating, with a wide range of textures, colours and sizes available.

“The market has shifted back to the traditional brick design for façades while wanting to maintain the benefits of an EWI system. We are excited to strengthen our range with the introduction of our brick cladding solution StoBrick,” comments Joe Mellor, Product Manager for Sto UK. “Clients, Architects and local authority planners alike can continue to benefit from our full system solutions, with no limitations using StoBrick, allowing the possibility of a traditional brick character and individuality for buildings.”

In the case of new buildings, the combination of a façade insulation system with clay brick slips allows for significantly slimmer wall cross-sections than the traditional cavity wall construction method, which consumes expensive floor space, especially in innercity locations.

“StoBrick is competitively priced and allows this type of façade finish to be applied over the external insulation, but without the prohibitive costs often associated with real bricks,” adds Joe. “And although some installation training is required, it also removes the need for contractors to source the highly skilled and expensive labour that traditional brick-laying demands.”

There are three types of StoBrick available - Handmoulded, Water-struck and Extruded. Between them they provide a huge range of options, covering all requirements, from surface structures which provide maximum visual impact, through to those where a more uniform and consistent brick appearance is required.

A comprehensive range of more than 50 formats, 10 surface textures and 200 colour variants are available, allowing the architect creative freedom to reproduce all the traditional brick architecture styles found

Helifix showcase vast range of repair techniques at London Build 2019 Helifix exhibited at London Build on the 27th & 28th November 2019, displaying a vast range of products and repair techniques, illustrating the variety of faults that Helifix products can repair. The in-house technical sales team and external Technical Business Managers were on hand to discuss specific projects and explain why Helifix repairs are often a more sustainable option.

Helifix products and their concealed, non-disruptive, installation techniques play an important role in preserving our built environment, from housing and offices to bridges and listed buildings.

The sales and technical teams have considerable experience and technical expertise to discuss your project-specific requirements and answer any questions you may have. To speak to a member of the team call Helifix on 020 8735 5200 or email sales@helifix.co.uk.

Sto UK has launched its new StoBrick cladding system for externally insulated building façades, which gives architects the opportunity to incorporate genuine clay brick finishes into their façade designs.

throughout the UK, and more diverse laying patterns and different joint designs. StoBrick is also fully accredited to the A2-s1, d0 fire safety standard.

“These clay brick slips now sit alongside the resin-based brick slips we have been producing, to really extend the options available from Sto, for a façade finish to suit your creative designs and budget requirements,” concludes Joe.

NEW ‘DUAL-FACED’ BURWELL GAULT BRICK Imperial Bricks has launched a second brick with its new ‘dual-faced’ finish: the Weathered Burwell Gault. A hard-textured, handmade brick with some golden buff shades and some greys, it’s traditionally seen in Cambridge, Suffolk, and other Southern counties. Imperial’s new brick is already in high demand.

“While every face of a standard brick can be used to create a brickwork pattern or bond, they usually have the same texture and finish,” adds Jason Hughes, Managing Director of Imperial Bricks. “So, if you want to use a smoother or ‘facing’ brick as well as a more weathered option from the same blend, you have to order two different product lines – a ‘standard’ and a ‘weathered’, for example. Our dual-faced bricks give you both options, so builders and developers only have to order one product line, while merchants require less stock.

“This brick is the second in our dual-faced range, with one ‘clean’ face/header and one with heavier weathering. Unique variations can be created, and with both faces and headers of the brick to choose from, different bond patterns can be used to make a project stand out, or match existing brickwork”, continues Jason.

CE marked and fully frost resistant to F2 rating, the new Weathered Burwell Gault is available in traditional 68mm imperial, as a perfect alternative to hard-to-source genuine reclaims, or standard metric sizing for new builds.

For further details on the dual-faced bricks, head to www.imperialbricks.co.uk and follow @Imperial_Bricks or call 01952 750816.

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Coatings, Sealants & Paints Earthborn’s White Clay carries the same warm white characteristics as lead white, making it especially flattering in older properties.

No.38 The Park is a boutique Georgian townhouse hotel featuring a palette of warm Earthborn greens.

EARTHBORN’S HISTORIC PAINT COLOURS Earthborn is well known for its high performing, eco friendly paints that are healthier to live with and better for the planet. But it doesn’t stop there.

Claypaint is available in a palette of 72 signature shades, including several based on historic paint colours.

With a host of unique qualities, Earthborn is the perfect choice for listed buildings and period homes. From historic medieval churches to sprawling Georgian mansions, compact Victorian terraces to mid-century bungalows, Earthborn’s paints are regularly specified by homeowners and professionals alike for a variety of heritage projects.

Of course, every period building has its own unique characteristics and considerations, not least when it comes to decorating. So Earthborn has combined its own paint knowledge and colour know-how with the expertise of Lincoln Conservation, to produce a guide on how to choose paint for older properties and create historic paint colour palettes that remain suitable for modern living.

Lincoln Conservation specialises in the conservation and restoration of interior and exterior features in listed and historic buildings, historic artefacts and

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historic paint analysis. Certain paint pigments have fascinating stories to tell; from the highly prized yet poisonous Arsenic Green to the fly repellent properties of Slaughterhouse Blue.

The experts at Lincoln Conservation helped Earthborn to delve a little deeper into some of the most historically important shades and together, they have created colour palettes suitable for a range of architectural styles and eras.

The “Earthborn Guide to Historic Paint Colours”, identifying design themes and colour recommendations for Georgian, Victorian and 20th century property styles is available on request from marketing@earthbornpaints.co.uk 05/12/2019 10:05:36

ON THE LEVEL WITH NORCROS ADHESIVES

Norcros Adhesives is adding a new leveller to its already comprehensive range.

Norcros Pro AF Low Prep Self Smoothing Levelling Compound is an ammonia and latex-free, 2-part levelling compound. It is suitable for use on most substrates without the need for priming.

STUNNING JETTY FINISHED WITH OSMO UK After installing a jetty to provide safe access to his boat, a marine enthusiast was looking for a product that would protect the wooden decking from the elements whilst also enhancing its natural grain. Painter and decorator, Robert Moore of R.F.M Painting & Decorating Services was contracted for the project and Osmo UK Decking-Oil was chosen to provide a high-quality and professional finish.

The boat is moored at the exterior of a suburban home and can be easily reached via the wooden jetty. As it is constantly exposed to the elements, the finish needed to be able to protect the wooden surface from water damage and cosmetic wear and tear.

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As the decking was brand new, it did not need a lot of preparation. The wooden decking was wiped down to remove any excess debris or dust, which ensures even coverage and distribution. Decking-Oil was then applied by a soft brush, with 24 hours between each coat to allow for adequate drying time. The finish has enhanced the wood’s natural characteristics and provided protection for many years to come.

Designed to protect, maintain and enhance the wooden surface, Decking-Oil produces a smooth satin finish which is water and dirt resistant. The microporous finish consists of natural vegetable oils and waxes which allows the wood to breathe, reducing the risk of swelling and shrinkage over time. The professional nature of the finish means that it will not crack, flake, peel or blister providing the homeowner with peace of mind that his jetty will continue to look its best.

For more information on the complete range of Osmo eco-friendly finishes, please visit www.osmouk.com

Norcros Pro AF Leveller has been specially formulated for use over old adhesive residues including bitumen, historically a problematic material to bond to. There is no need to prime or remove firmly bonded residues. This greatly reduces the time usually required for preparation of the substrate to be levelled.

The quick-drying formulation means that ceramic and porcelain tiles can be laid in just three hours. Other floorcoverings can be laid in four hours.

Norcros Pro AF Leveller can be used from 0 to 12mm in one application. With the addition of coarse aggregates, the thickness can be increased to 30mm.

The product is suitable for use in installations incorporating underfloor heating systems.

The Norcros Adhesives levelling range already comprises some seven products, including Universal Levelling Compound and a number of specialist levellers, such as Norcros Pro 30 Fast Track Eco Levelling Compound, which contains recycled crushed glass rather than quarried materials. The addition of the new product further strengthens the offer from Norcros Adhesives to the flooring market.

Norcros Pro AF Leveller comes in grey and is supplied in a 20kg bag. It conforms to CT-C14-F6.

For more information on Norcros Adhesives products, please call 01782 524140 or visit www.norcros-adhesives.com

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Dab hands at jointing • New Joint, Skim & Fill range provides a great quality finish and faster results • Game-changing Quick-Dry products meet all needs of the professional • Easy-to-use system offers simplicity and value

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oupret’s innovative new Joint, Skim & Fill system of products provides both clarity and quality in the plasterboard jointing and skim-filling market. This justreleased easy-to-use range creates a cohesive product range that satisfies the needs of expert painters and decorators, whilst also having the kind of usability that will appeal to general builders and maintenance staff.

‘Better results in less time’ is the touchstone for the range, which is designed with trades in mind and finish to the forefront. As filling is Toupret’s stock-in-trade, this versatile range is developed by a team that knows a professional’s job is all about achieving a great finish with the minimum of fuss and time.

The reliability, performance and workability of Joint, Skim & Fill will keep professionals as happy as its customers will be with the first-timeright finish.

The Quick Dry products in the range are the ones that will attract attention straight away, being ready for overpainting in just three hours.

All of the jointing products in the range, including Quick Dry, are CE approved and conform to the allimportant BS EN 13963 for jointing materials for plasterboard. For normal applications they require just one coat, remove the need for spot-priming and are excellent for surface finishing, filling or plasterboard jointing.

All of the jointing products in the range, including Quick Dry, are CE approved and conform to the all-important BS EN 13963 for jointing materials for plasterboard.

For normal applications they require just one coat, remove the need for spotpriming and are excellent for surface finishing, filling or plasterboard jointing.

The Patch & Repair additions to the range provide a hardy backline for preparation work, whether filling significant gaps or smoothing over cracks.

This range’s performance takes users closer to that desired perfect finish and also saves time on the job by reducing on-problems significantly.

Shrinkage or re-filling are not regular concerns, whilst flashing and grinning are not a problem, so spot priming is all but done away with. All products are easy to mix, apply and to sand, providing an easy-on first-class finish that feathers well, keeping both trades and homeowners happy.

For more information on the range, see www.toupret.co.uk/ joint-skim-fill.html

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This exciting new Toupret range is available at builders’ and decorators’ merchants now. Expect to see Joint, Skim & Fill products in work vans and on-site around the country. There are nine products in the Joint, Skim & Fill range, which comprises Joint, Skim & Fill in 5kg and 10kg bags; Joint, Skim & Fill Quick Dry in 5kg and 10kg bags; Joint and Skim in 20kg ready to use buckets; and Patch & Repair Filler Quick Dry in 1kg, 2kg and 5kg bags, as well as standard Patch & Repair Filler in a 1.5kg tub.

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MADE.COM RELEASES 11 IDEAS TO TURN A RENTED HOUSE INTO A HOME With property prices continuing to skyrocket, more of the U.K population are finding themselves renting long-term, spending decades and even raising families in borrowed properties.

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nd whilst these renters will not be replacing a kitchen any time soon, there are plenty that they can do to personalise their space to make it feel like home - Made. com has summarised the top 11 tips to making a rental a home.

The top 11 tips are1. Add colour with bold furnishings rather than décor Colour is an obvious way to personalise a home, but painting your walls in bright shades might not be an option if you’re renting.

Colour is an obvious way to personalise a home, but painting your walls in bright shades might not be an option if you’re renting. Consider adding vibrant hues with your furnishings instead - a neutral wall can offer the perfect backdrop for a dramatic fuchsia armchair or a sideboard painted in bold sunshine yellow.

Consider adding vibrant hues with your furnishings instead - a neutral wall can offer the perfect backdrop for a dramatic fuchsia armchair or a sideboard painted in bold sunshine yellow.

For the warier, stick with neutral furnishings and adding colour in less permanent ways, such as with a few statement cushions or a bright throw you can remove when you want a quick change-up.

2. Make your fireplace a feature Some rented properties can feel a little unloved, with period features simply covered over to create a maintenance-free finish for landlords.

Old fireplaces often seem to fall victim to this, either being boarded over or with their contents stripped out and just a hole left in its place. Fill these gaps with characterful logs, either completely stacked up to fill the space or even resting in a fire basket for a more realistic look. Alternatively, fill with church candles or fairy lights, so you can still enjoy that ethereal twinkly glow.

If yours has been boxed in and needs hiding but has a nice surround you’d still like to show off, try placing a large statement light in front of it to act as a design distraction while still offering you a gentle source of light. A large artwork casually leaning against it manages to look effortlessly cool and doesn’t look as if it’s only there to disguise the ugliness beneath.

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3. Keep your options open

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Freestanding, flexible storage is the renter’s best friend: requiring no attachment to walls (and therefore no holes to upset landlords), opting for modular pieces which you can add to or reconfigure as your needs change and can easily be rearranged to fit a future home when the time comes to move on.

Books, photos and trinkets instantly add a homely feel to any space, so opting for pieces which allow you to display them can be a canny decorating decision.

4. Give a plant a home Plants and flowers are an easy way to add character and personality to any space.

Take a look at succulents and retro ferns, cheese plants and fiddle-leaf figs, and if you’ve got limited surface space try out

walls and can be removed afterwards without a trace. Alternatively, have a go at making something yourself - get creative and cut up some coloured paper or sticky-backed plastic sheeting, taking inspiration from a pattern already within your room to tie the look together. Made. com recommend geometric patterns or simple circles which always look good. With any option, it’s always worth doing a patch test first.

10. Create your own boundaries some equally on-trend macrame hanging planters instead.

5. Homely home office For the freelancers and flexible workers, a dedicated workspace is a great way to get organised and separate work from home life. Customisable pieces such as a pegboard will allow you to keep tools and stationery to hand and looking good, as well as provide handy spots to stick inspirational imagery up in to help spur you on through the day.

Ensure you have a good task light, and try to get into the habit of tidying up when it’s time to clock off every day, so your work detritus doesn’t spill into your living space. If you’re working on a make-do desk, perhaps belonging to your landlord, add a personal touch by switching out drawer knobs with something a little more interesting that you can easily switch back again in the future.

6. Art attack Art on walls is the ultimate finishing touch to a room, and will instantly make your space feel homely and ‘finished’. Some landlords, unfortunately, fail to see it that way however, banning tenants from banging holes in walls, though there are a number of workarounds for this.

Try eschewing frames altogether and get imaginative with how you hang your prints.

Suspending them from a vintage wooden clothes hanger or bulldog clip only requires a small picture pin (see if there’s any already lurking in your walls). Alternatively, simply Blu Tack your print to the wall and create a border around it using decorative Washi tape.”

And when the time comes to move on, you can simply roll them up and take them with you.

8. Now you see it...

There may be other elements of your rental that you’re not keen on - One clever approach to treating such eyesores is to simply hide them in plain sight - this boiler being a case in point.

Rather than let down the look of an otherwise sleek kitchen, by simply covering it with a piece of quirky wallpaper, it is turned into an interesting focal point of the room. Depending on what you’re trying to hide, patterned gift wrap or fabric over furniture can work just as well as an effective cover-up.

9. Wow with wall stickers Another alternative to art on walls is the humble wall sticker. With the internet awash with options, there’s plenty to choose from, and they easily adhere to

Art on walls is the ultimate finishing touch to a room, and will instantly make your space feel homely and ‘finished’. Some landlords, unfortunately, fail to see it that way however, banning tenants from banging holes in walls, though there are a number of workarounds for this.

The trend for open-plan living is still going strong, though in some rentals this more accurately equates to shoe-horning a sofa into a kitchen rather than a sprawling loft-style space. But, whatever your layout, creating clearly defined areas for relaxing, cooking and eating can help curb any claustrophobia and help the space feel more like a multi-faceted home, despite the lack of separate rooms.

Furniture can be the best way to do this- try using a strategically placed shelving unit to partially divide the space without losing any light or doing anything permanent, to help zone it up. A deep, backless unit will allow you to display items on both sides and keep things looking good from all angles.

11. Do double duty If space at home is limited, the furniture you fill it with needs to work extra-hard to justify its place.

Look out for multi-functioning furniture items, such as foldable dining tables or sleek sofa beds, so you can reconfigure the space to meet your changing requirements on a daily basis. Also, consider using items outside of their intended purpose: a chair or stool makes for a quirky yet practical nightstand, and can easily be moved over to your dining table when extra guests are coming over to eat.

With a little careful consideration and savvy shopping, you can ensure your home is ready for a range of activities with a quick rejig, however limited space might be.

7. Funk up your floors

Rugs are your best option here, go for the largest you can afford, covering as much of the offending floor as possible. Go for a plain, neutral number that you can pass off as carpet, or if the rest of your room is quite plain, use it as an opportunity to add some interest by plumping for a bold pattern.

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Poor flooring - from that ubiquitous ‘Landlord Blue’ short-pile carpet to dodgy laminate - can be the bane of many renter’s homes. Replacing it isn’t usually an option, yet it can let down the look of an otherwise lovely space.

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Fresh ideas for Interior Doors in 2020 As a new decade commences, professionals everywhere are seeking fresh inspiration for interiors, whether for commercial spaces or residential living. This desire for innovative performance and trendsetting designs is most notable when it comes to interior doors, whose influence upon a room can have a marked effect on the surrounding dĂŠcor, lifting and invigorating adjacent space.

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ringing clarity to this process is Vicaima, who have just launched their 2020 Interior Door Selector.

Packed with ideas this brochure is an essential tool for every specifier.

Now an annual and eagerly anticipated event, the 2020 edition of the Vicaima Interior Door Selector has over 100 pages filled with doors and doorsets that suit a multitude of applications, tastes and budgets.

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Vicaima Visual Sensations in New Valley finish, horizontal.

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Vicaima 2020 Interior Door Selector

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BOTTOM RIGHT Vicaima EX71 door in Warm Umber and with Jet Black grooves.

Its simple to navigate layout has been designed to make the selection process straightforward, with at a glance guides to form, function and fire, or indeed other desired performance criteria. Every range also shows a simply Price Indicator, allowing easy comparison between potential options for that perfect specification.

New for 2020, Vicaima have introduced some pioneering products that are certain to gain wide appeal. These include: Primed 2 Go, a revolutionary, polymer faced door for painting that requires no surface sanding or priming, saving time and money on site. Deep Textured Finish, creating the authentic touch of an open grain in a matt finish that can be applied to a selection of veneered and stained veneered doors.

Naturally, at Vicaima it’s not just about great design and trend setting aesthetics.

Download a copy of the 2020 Interior Door Selector today by visiting the Vicaima website www.vicaima.com.

Alternatively call 01793 532333 for further inspiration.

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An extension to the Visual Sensation foil door range, introducing 4 new matt finishes and new horizontal grain options in both the Naturdor Stained and Dekordor SD Foil ranges.

As specialists in performance products, Vicaima set the benchmark for fire certification, coupled with security and acoustic solutions. With a growing market awareness of the needs of providing peace of mind when it comes to fire safety, specifiers gain confidence from a supplier like Vicaima, who achieved 54 minutes during recent MHCLG testing of their 30-minute door assemblies. This coupled with Secure By Design approval and FSC environmental certification, makes Vicaima the obvious choice for demanding locations.

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GEZE DOORS HIT THE RIGHT NOTE GEZE’s automatic doors have hit just the right note in the development of a London building which is the new home of Universal Music.

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wo automatic circular sliding doors create a chart-topping entrance to 4 Pancras Square - one of a cluster of new buildings that have led to the emergence of Kings Cross as a creative hub.

They are a statement piece to the 11-storey angular building which reflects the area’s lineage as a former goods yard to King’s Cross railway. With an exposed weathered steel frame, Eric Parry Architects’ building echoes the industrial revolution which enabled the expansion of London.

Positioned side by side, the two Slimdrive SCRs provide a 360° drive solution combining high performance with unobtrusive operation – the drives are just 7 cm in height and very discreet – and as pass doors are not needed, they maintain the clean aesthetics of the glazed facade.

Focchi undertook the installation of the facade: glazing, entrance and building envelop and worked with GEZE UK to identify the right solution – moving away from an original design featuring revolving doors which would have prompted requirements for pass doors.

There are also environmental benefits to the Slimdrive SCR selection – having only one set of doors open at a time, reduces heat loss and air pollution. Emergency buttons on reception were also added to immediately close the doors and prohibit the building being surged by fans in the wake of a visiting celebrity!

“Music is so important to our cultural landscape, so we are delighted to be opening doors for Universal Music which will no doubt benefit from its move to such an exhilarating part of the capital and present an inspiring environment from which to work.”

There is also bespoke lettering in the canopy of the Slimdrive SCR which was laser cut by GEZE UK and bespoke bronze lettering was added.

Other GEZE products used around the building include a Slimdrive SL NT automatic sliding door with access control. This allows workers to access a cycle ramp, meaning that they can ride straight up to a cycle store – an ideal solution for city commutes.

The Slimdrive SL NT is a good solution for buildings with high levels of footfall and a continuous flow of people moving in various directions. Almost invisible, it is virtually silent in operation and can move leaf weights of up to 125kg.

In addition, there are eight pairs of TS 550 floor springs fitted to retails units within the building. This provides an option to automate the entrances in the future– effectively ‘future proofing’ them.

Extensive rooftop gardens were added to the office block, which were intended to evoke a ‘windswept moorland’ and provide a peaceful oasis in the midst of the city with panoramic views across London.

Said GEZE UK sales and marketing director Andy Howland: “Music is so important to our cultural landscape, so we are delighted to be opening doors for Universal Music which will no doubt benefit from its move to such an exhilarating part of the capital and present an inspiring environment from which to work.”

The relocation puts Universal amongst a vibrant set of neighbours, including Google, global media company Havas, Louis Vuitton and PRS, as well as Central Saint Martins, the world’s leading fashion college.

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For more information about GEZE UK’s comprehensive range of automatic and manual door closers call 01543 443000 or visit www.geze.co.uk

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Doors, Windows & Fittings GARADOR OFFERS NEW SLATE GREY (RAL 7015) AS STANDARD Smart grey garage doors are surging in popularity and due to a substantial increase in demand, Garador is now offering Slate Grey (RAL 7015) as part of its standard range of colours for steel Up & Over doors, side hinged doors and personnel doors.

LOGO OPTIONS WITH 4 COLOUR BLUE 100/88/45/50 FAWN 40/45/50/5 LIGHTER BLUE 74/44/21/24 GREY 40% BLACK

Garador’s Managing Director, Neil Discombe, comments: “Our introduction of this exciting new colour has been market driven. We have introduced Slate Grey (RAL 7015) into our steel door ranges in response to increasing requests from merchants, builders and the public.”

Slate Grey is the perfect colour for those wanting to add a modern look to their build. The new shade offers a soft formality that is perfect for modern living, giving a fresh new look with a distinctive style.

THE ALL NEW VIER PREMIUM DESIGNER RANGE

Slate Grey (RAL 7015) is available for all the doors in Garador’s steel Up & Over range. As with all of Garador’s colour finishes, this new colour is applied to the panel using a powder-coated paint, which provides a protective, long-lasting and attractive finish to the door.

Made from Grade 304 stainless steel, the new Vier Premium designer range combines high-quality manufacturing techniques with a series of luxuriously designed levers on an all new slim-line magnetic sprung rose for a sleek aesthetic appeal.

Find out more at www.garador.co.uk or call 01935 443798.

Call: 01228 672900 Email: sales@zoo-hardware.co.uk Visit: www.vierdesign.co.uk

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Vier Premium is part of Zoo Hardware Ltd.

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The Clement Conservation Rooflight Crafted by experts in steel fenestration and building restoration.

The Clement Conservation Rooflight is a replica of a Victorian original. Designed to lie flush with the roofline and in keeping with the character of your property, it is the only conservation rooflight that is available from stock in two profiles – for slate or clay tiles - to ensure the best finish.

Clement House, Haslemere, Surrey GU27 1HR 01428 643393 clementconservationrooflights.co.uk info@clementwg.co.uk

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superb conservation rooflights

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Before

Replacing windows in heritage and listed buildings

By Andrew Madge, Managing Director of Gowercroft Joinery.

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inding appropriate replacements for old and degraded singleglazed windows in heritage and listed properties can be a challenge, particularly when trying to combine building conservation requirements with the modern desire for a comfortable and energy-efficient living environment.

Vacuum glazing technology is now opening up opportunities for owners of heritage properties looking to replace the glazing on old windows, whilst preserving as much of the original joinery as possible.

After using Gowercroft Heritage Windows

When the original wooden window frames are too rotten to be repaired, the traditional approach has been to specify like-for-like handmade single-glazed timber replacements, which usually means having to accept a relatively poor level of thermal and acoustic performance or opt for secondary glazing solutions to compensate.

In an ideal world, most of today’s owners of old and period properties would like to benefit from modern performance standards, including durability, sustainability and a good level of energy efficiency, in order to create a pleasant living environment but without spoiling the original aesthetic.

Energy efficient double-glazing Although superior energy efficiency can be achieved through standard factory fitted double-glazed units (typically with a 16 – 20mm Argon filled cavity), the giveaway ‘double reflection’ on the glazing and the thicker profiles required to accommodate heavy double-glazed units are almost invariably unacceptable for period properties.

This has led to the popularity of ‘low sightline’ slim double-glazing, which aims to combine some of the features of a slim window with better thermal performance.

This is achieved by using a heavier inert gas such as Krypton or Xenon to reduce the thermal conductivity sufficiently to create an effective smaller cavity in between the panes. The sightline, (which is the area from edge of the glass to the top of the spacer bar), is typically reduced to just 5-6mm to allow thinner window sections.

However, this type of window is now the subject of some controversy, not least within the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF), because in order to achieve such a slim slightline it is necessary to reduce the amount of sealant and desiccant used in the perimeter of the unit. This can cause instability and increase the likelihood of unit failure. In fact, there is an ongoing discussion as to whether some of these units even comply with the Construction Products Regulations (CPR).

As a result of these still unresolved matters, striking the right balance between performance and aesthetics has become even more complicated and challenging.

Vacuum glazing

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An alternative option which is now beginning to attract interest in the heritage sector is ‘vacuum glazing’, where all the air is extracted to form a vacuum cavity between a pane of low emissivity (low-e) glass and a pane of clear float glass. With no air or gas between the panes, there is nothing to transfer heat, so the energy efficiency is much greater. The same applies to acoustic performance

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Originally developed in Japan over twenty years ago as a lightweight, energy efficient solution for buildings in earthquake zones, Pilkington Spacia™ is the first commercially available vacuum glazing in the UK, which offers U-values of 1.1 W/m2K on its standard units and 0.9W/m2K on its higher performance Spacia™ Cool units.

Gowercroft is the first window and door manufacturer to have incorporated Pilkington Spacia™ vacuum glazing technology into a traditionally crafted Heritage range of timber windows, in order to replicate the classic appearance of singleglazed windows of the past.

With a total thickness of 6.2mm, (the vacuum cavity being just 0.2mm), it is roughly a quarter of the thickness of a conventional double-glazed unit and half the thickness of a typical slimline doubleglazed unit. It is also approximately two thirds of the weight, which makes it narrow and light enough to fit into most existing timber frames without giving any discernible double reflection.

Vacuum glazing technology is now opening up opportunities for owners of heritage properties looking to replace the glazing on old windows, whilst preserving as much of the original joinery as possible. It is also being adopted by specialist joinery companies wanting to create traditional looking windows with modern performance benefits for those period homes where the original frames cannot be salvaged.

A complete window solution Gowercroft is the first window and door manufacturer to have incorporated Pilkington Spacia™ vacuum glazing technology into a traditionally crafted Heritage range of timber windows, in order to replicate the classic appearance of singleglazed windows of the past.

Though thoroughly traditional in appearance, the new Heritage Range is actually made from Accoya®, a modern, sustainable wood, (whose cellular structure has been treated to increase its durability, stability and longevity), and sprayed with a unique formulation of protective paint, guaranteed to deliver zero maintenance for 10 years.

Instead of using old fashioned putty to secure the glass panes like the windows of the past, a traditional putty-line is replicated in the outer profile, significantly improving security and the longevity of the coating. Similarly, all the modern seals, which are designed to keep the windows weather-resistant, are neatly concealed within the joinery and only traditional style ironmongery is used.

After using Gowercroft Heritage Windows

For more information about Gowercroft Joinery, telephone: 01773 300 510.

Email: info@gowercroft.com Web: www.gowercroft.co.uk

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Before

Instead of using old fashioned putty to secure the glass panes like the windows of the past, a traditional putty-line is replicated in the outer profile, significantly improving security and the longevity of the coating.

With its unique combination of period features and modern performance benefits, the Heritage range has been installed in listed properties across the country, including the impressive restoration of Grade II Listed Templeton House, Winston Churchill’s former home in Roehampton, which recently won Gowercroft the 2019 British Woodworking Federation’s (BWF) ‘Woodworking Project of the Year Award’ for design, innovation and joinery manufacture.

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Doors, Windows & Fittings CRITTALL SCREENS AT THE HEART OF NEW INNOVATION CENTRE An ambitious project to boost the creative industries sector in the north-east of England has used Crittall Innervision steel screens and doors as a key design element.

A former Grade II listed post office in Hartlepool’s Whitby Street has been transformed to become The BIS, the town’s new hub for business start-ups offering a range of office and workshop spaces augmented by specialist support.

The £4million project, backed by Hartlepool Borough Council and the Tees Valley Combined Authority, is viewed as the catalyst for an innovation and skills quarter in a Victorian conservation area close to the town centre.

Leeds-based architects Group Ginger have retained the existing post office building and augmented it with a modern two-storey extension.

The two parts of the building are linked by a covered courtyard, described as a multi-function open social space which is where Innervision steel screens and doors, based on Crittall’s Corporate W20 profiles, have been used. Acting as glass walls for individual workspaces, they also look out onto the social space to encourage collaborative partnership working and interaction between the new occupants of The BIS.

“Crittall windows are a timeless design solution which complements both existing structures and contemporary new spaces.”

“This is a high-quality project which is the pride and joy of Hartlepool,” says Group Ginger architect David Pogson.

“The choice of Crittall’s Corporate W20 windows was not a difficult one – the quality of the brand product and the design stands out from the rest of the market and offers a unique identity to the courtyard.”

The seven bespoke screens, some incorporating doors, are finished in black Duralife powder coating and,

by virtue of the slender but strong nature of their steel frames, enhance the transmission of light within the individual offices and the central space.

Says Mr Pogson: “The central social space is where existing buildings meet new interventions. Crittall windows are a timeless design solution which complements both existing structures and contemporary new spaces.” www.crittall-windows.co.uk

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Mirror Door Systems Ltd Made to measure and Bulk quantities of Sliding Door Systems to the trade and public nationwide.

All systems incorporate anti-jump safety features and have been designed to accept the choice of safety backed mirror, opaque glass (BS6206 Class B) and/or panels.

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• Multipoint locking and welded corners as standard • Beautiful leaded, Georgian pane, horizontal bars designs • Can be installed direct to brick, stone or wood surrounds

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QUALITY ENGINEERED PRODUCTS FOR A NEW ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT In 2016 Imperial College London acquired the neighbouring disused Royal Mail Post Sorting Office from the Science Museum, sitting on the corner of Exhibition Road and Imperial College Road.

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lanning was submitted to change this beautiful Edwardian Baroque style sorting office into the new ‘Dyson School of Design Engineering’, which was made possible by a £12million donation from the James Dyson Foundation.

Architects Pascall+Watson were employed to devise a sensitive yet practical design for the change of use of this four storey building. As part of the plans, thought had to be given as to how to minimise carbon consumption, as well as reduce energy use and wastage in line with the College’s Environmental Policy.

A significant amount of heat and energy can be lost through poor performing windows and due to the planning restrictions on the new Dyson Building, the numerous beautiful original single glazed windows of all shapes and sizes had to be retained. Therefore, Pascall+Watson specified secondary glazing to improve their performance.

Working with Willmott Dixon and the Imperial Estates Team, discreet configurations were designed to treat over 180 windows across the building. Over seven different types were installed to match the varying styles; large sweeping curved headed casements were treated with matching sightline Series 41 side hung casements, tall traditional box sash windows were treated with Series 20 and 25 vertical sliding units, along with a tricky installation of high-level stairwell port hole windows at the top of the building. To increase energy performance further, the units were glazed with 6.8 low-E laminate glass.

On the façade overlooking the service area of the Science Museum, obscurity glass was specified, to prevent distractions for the researchers and staff.

ABOVE

LEFT

Large SBD curved head casements

Secondary glazing with obscurity glass

The windows overlooking the busy thoroughfares of Exhibition Road and Imperial College Road were fitted with a cavity to provide added noise insulation, creating quiet conducive spaces for learning and meetings.

With lots of new and costly equipment in the labs and teaching rooms, it was decided to enhance the security of the ground floor windows with Secured By Design accredited units, the Police Preferred Specification.

For further information, please contact Selectaglaze on 01727 837271, email: enquiries@selectaglaze.co.uk or visit: www.selectaglaze.co.uk

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Established in 1966, Royal Warrant Holder Selectaglaze is the leading specialist in the design, manufacture and installation of secondary glazing. Selectaglaze will be exhibiting at the Listed Property Show from 9th-10th February 2020.

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TOUCH IRONMONGERY LTD www.atouchofbrass.co.uk

210 Fulham Road, Chelsea London SW10 9PJ

THE PERFECT TOUCH Touch Ironmongery is one of London’s leading Architectural Ironmongers

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stablished in October 1982

Originally called “A Touch of Brass”, the firm changed their name in 2003 in reaction to slowly advancing market changes in architectural ironmongery which is no longer supplied solely in brass, and to also reflect the broader range of product and finishes that they sell.

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In fact today, Touch can supply a wide range of finishes including Brass, Satin Brass, Polished Chrome, Polished Nickel, Satin Nickel, Copper, Bronze – solid and plated, BMA, Antique Brass, Black, Pewter, Ceramic, Leather, Stainless Steel, Satin Stainless Steel, Gun Metal, and the list keeps growing.

Whatever finish you require, Touch can help you get the right look.

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Touch occupy their recently refurbished showroom at 210 Fulham Road, Chelsea, where they display a vast range of their 5,000 products. With a customer base including Interior Designers, Builders and Individuals who are interested in the quality end of the Ironmongery market, Touch mainly supply to residential premises but

hotel and office properties also contribute to their vast clientele.

The company also have a healthy export market to all corners of the world, namely the Middle East, Europe and the Americas.

Touch’s owner and founder, Bill Benham, has 38 years’ experience in the ironmongery trade, as do his colleagues Jim Haselup and Alan Blanchard. Saleem Qureshi is the newest member of our team and has 10 years’ experience, meaning their knowledge is unrivalled in this industry.

The range of products supplied

by Touch date from circa 1640 French (Louise XIV) and cover all subsequent periods (Georgian, Edwardian & Victorian), art deco and contemporary pieces also make up the product ranges. In addition, Touch showcases the very best of British manufacturing; the best ranges are still produced in the Midlands by craftsmen in factories dating back 200 years or more.

Touch Ironmongery have recently become suppliers for Designer Doorware (Australia) who have beautiful products with a cutting edge design Metal, Wood and concrete. We also have the exclusive rights to sell the Olaria (Barcelona)

range in the UK. Olaria make all our bespoke products, they have incredible levels of workmanship.

Touch also sell European manufactured goods which is considered to be of a very good quality and in recent years they have introduced some of the far eastern made products, albeit in a limited range but cost effective. With trends continuously evolving new innovative products are constantly under development. Touch understand that keeping up with the fashion-shifts is imperative in order to provide every customer with the best solution for their requirements.

Ironmongery can be a difficult and complicated aspect of a building project, as a result Touch aim to take this awkward aspect and make it user friendly and clear to understand by offering an on-site service where they carry out a detailed door by door, window by window, room by room Ironmongery schedule, highlighting all requirements and identifying any items that can be refurbished. Refurbishment is a large part of the business; Touch will undertake complete ironmongery refurbishment projects, and can restore old paint covered door furniture to their former glory, looking as new, at a fraction of the cost to replace.

For more information about Touch Ironmongery or to arrange a showroom visit please call 0207 351 2255 or alternatively visit www.atouchofbrass.co.uk

BRITISH & EUROPEAN MANUFACTURERS SUPPLYING THE FINEST QUALITY IRONMONGERY Touch combine traditional skills with modern manufacturing techniques to produce the most beautiful, quality fittings, built to stand the test of time. As well as specialist bespoke items, Touch supply over 1000 products, available in 23 different finishes to furnish high end residential and commercial properties, royal palaces, government houses, historic castles and stately homes.

Olaria, available from Touch Ironmongery www.atouchofbrass.co.uk & www.olariabarcelona.com

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Reynaers helps to create panoramic views across London Located in the heart of London, a stone’s throw from the Square Mile in the City of London, Royal Mint Gardens sits between the past, the present and the future, adjoining Tower Bridge and the Tower of London.

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he new site offers panoramic viewpoints over the timeless Thames and London’s iconic skyline and is situated in a privileged position steeped in history. This luxurious development offers the ultimate in modern city living.

“Royal Mint Gardens is a fantastic development in one of the most iconic cities in the world. The new project will provide residents with epic views across the Capital, coupled with contemporary design and high-quality amenities.”

Designed by Farrells and combining visionary architecture with innovative engineering, Reynaers is working with developer IJM Land and façade contractor Staticus to supply frameless glazing that offers uninterrupted views across London’s skyline and maximises natural light. Royal Mint Gardens is spread across three blocks, Rosemary, Lavender and Sage and the project is due to be completed in December 2019.

Facilities within Royal Mint Gardens include a wellness suite with swimming pool and jacuzzi, gym and yoga studio. An exclusive leisure retreat offers residents a cinema room, residents lounge and private dining rooms as well as two courtyard gardens.

With more than 13,000 square meters of unitised façade structures installed across 263 units, the mixed-use development includes a number of innovative elements such as frameless, full hanging façade elements (on tension rods) with horizontal glass fins. The unique slender aesthetics of Reynaers’ ‘Element Façade CW 65-EF’ aluminium curtain wall provide maximum transparency without compromising on the extreme strength and stability required in high-rise construction. The system is

available in varying insulation levels and glazing variants to provide the optimum solution for different projects.

Both external and internal balconies unify three towers of varying heights, to provide spectacular viewpoints from every level. Reynaers’ Concept Patio (CP) 155-LS sliding doors have been selected for their premium look and insulation qualities as well as practical advantages such as a low threshold option for optimal accessibility.

Royal Mint Gardens features the upgraded version of CP 155-LS with High Insulation (HI) to increase insulation values for lowenergy buildings. A further variant is also available which holds the Swiss Minergie® component label, the sustainability brand for new and refurbished buildings.

Commenting on the development, Neil Garner, International Project Consultant at Reynaers, said “Royal Mint Gardens is a fantastic development in one of the most iconic cities in the world. The new project will provide residents with epic views across the Capital, coupled with contemporary design and high-quality amenities. At Reynaers, we strive to enhance the built environment, whilst ensuring that all our ranges offer residents optimum security and safety.”

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Royal Mint Gardens is redefining city living with innovative design both inside and out combined with unrivalled access to the City and showstopping views. Set within a landscaped piazza to provide further space for socialising and relaxation, the development offers a unique location to enjoy life in the beating heart of London.

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Further details are available from: Reynaers Aluminium Limited, Tel: 0121 421 1999, or email: reynaersltd@reynaers.com, website: www.reynaers.co.uk.

Doors, Windows & Fittings Internal steel sliding doors complement high-end design aesthetic Saving space while providing a contemporary industrial aesthetic, internal steel sliding doors from Steel Window Association members provide solidity without being visually overpowering. The W20 single glazed profiles ensure good sight lines from one area to another, compared to potentially chunky proportions required with timber or aluminium, while allowing maximum light transmission. The slender and robust steel frames are often divided into small panes for aesthetic reasons and are ideally suited to high-end, design-led residential and commercial schemes.

Bespoke internal steel sliding doors provide considerable design flexibility and may be employed as pocket doors or surface-mounted to slide back across a wall.

The doors can be of any size and are hung from a high quality, heavy duty track system so door thresholds are unnecessary, resulting in an uninterrupted finished floor level. Recessed handle plates are normally installed into the door.

Excellent durability is assured as the doors can be hot-dip galvanised and factoryfinished. To achieve the required look, a high quality polyester powder coat may be applied in any RAL colour or, alternatively, an industrial raw steel finish can be provided that shows up the details of the manufacturing process, including the welded joints. This is achieved either through a clear powder coating or with the application of a high quality factory applied lacquer.

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FUTUREBUILD 2020: BE THE CATALYST FOR CHANGE From recent demonstrations to government declarations the message is clear – we need to work together if we are to succeed against the climate change challenges, we all face.

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gainst this backdrop, Futurebuild 2020 (03–05 March, ExCeL London) will inspire construction professionals to join fellow industry leaders and innovators to be the catalyst for change and deliver a more sustainable built environment.

Setting the agenda The highly-regarded Futurebuild conference returns and will follow a three-day progression for 2020. With a central theme of responding to the climate and ecological crisis, the Arena will host engaging debate and discussion led by politicians, academics and industry shapers.

Sessions which are set to be unmissable include: ‘The future is regenerative’ chaired

by Peter Murray, Chair of New London Architecture (03 March). The session will explore how design and construction needs a circular rethink.

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While discussions on the conference stage will focus on the biggest issues facing the built environment at a macro level, the six Keynote Stages will look at the specific challenges impacting Buildings, Offsite, Energy, Interiors, Resourceful Materials and Critical Infrastructure. This programme of solution-driven sessions will share the latest thinking and research, to educate, inform and inspire visitors to make a positive change.

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With the focus on true innovation, Futurebuild 2020 will also see the return of the Big Innovation Pitch. Hosted in conjunction with technical partner BRE, the competition will identify and celebrate novel new approaches to some of the biggest challenges facing us all.

Each day, the six stages will host a focused keynote presentation by a recognised expert in their field. This and other sessions will look at tangible solutions and approaches which will make a real difference to practice and performance.

Beyond the stages Around each Keynote Stage will be an exhibition of innovative brands, offering unique solutions to the challenges discussed in the companion knowledge programme.

It will feature some of the largest headline brands in the sector, alongside SMEs and start-up organisations, creating a dedicated platform to connect these companies with forward-thinking specifiers and buyers.

Brands and organisations that are leading the charge when it comes to innovation will be recognised through a dedicated Innovation Trail. A guided route will take visitors on a journey through the event and enable them to learn more about the latest thinking from Futurebuild’s Innovation Partners, including ACO Technologies, Smart Systems, The Hadley group and CEMEX.

The Buildings section will be of particular interest to construction professionals, visitors will be able to explore and discuss modern building technology, innovations and legislation surrounding the need for a low carbon-built environment. Expanding for 2020, the section will also include two new showcase areas; the Whole House Retrofit Zone and the Digital Impact. The zones will focus on refurb and retrofit solutions and the latest developments in digital construction.

The game changers are back With the focus on true innovation, Futurebuild 2020 will also see the return of the Big Innovation Pitch. Hosted in conjunction with technical partner BRE, the competition will identify and celebrate novel new approaches to some of the biggest challenges facing us all.

Entrants will present their ground-breaking ideas on each of the six Keynote Stages on day one, before shortlisted entries go headto-head in the Arena on day two.

Martin Hurn, Event Director of Futurebuild, comments: “The responsibility for tackling the climate emergency lies in all of our hands and we must collaborate in order to find solutions to secure our future. Futurebuild 2020 provides the perfect platform for forward-thinking decision makers across the built environment to come together and play a key part in driving positive change.

“We understand that taking time out of work to attend events can be a challenge, which is why we will make sure that visitors can really get involved across a number of levels, from the world class knowledge programme in the Arena and on the Keynote Stages, to the showcase of the latest innovations across the exhibition. Innovation to us is more than just futuristic concepts, it’s about sharing the latest thinking and ideas, processes and solutions, products and materials. All of these things coming together under one roof at Futurebuild 2020 will inspire people to do things differently and create real change.”

For more information about Futurebuild 2020, the home of innovation, visit www.futurebuild.co.uk.

making the transition to a

ZERO CARBON WORLD Join 27,000 industry influencers and shapers with the power to change the future of the built environment.

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Latest News

IDEAL BOILERS AND BOYBAND BLUE REUNITE FOR LATEST CAMPAIGN Ideal Boilers has launched its new marketing campaign for the peak heating season with some familiar faces – 90s boyband Blue.

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he UK’s leading boiler manufacturer has joined forces with the band to launch a series of new TV ads designed to promote the quality and reliability of its domestic product range.

Created in 2019, the 30-second TV ads feature pop stars Antony Costa, Duncan James, Lee Ryan and Simon Webbe singing their hit tune ‘One Love’ on the driveway of a customer who has fallen in love with her new boiler.

“We were blown away by the success of our first ad campaign with Blue earlier this year. We saw huge spikes in brand awareness, and we’re building on that now by really driving home messaging around the quality and reliability of our boilers, communicated in an entertaining way.

The ads are live now and will run into November across primetime lifestyle channels including Sky and Channel 4.

Developed in partnership with creative agency Principles, the campaign promotes the fact that the Ideal Boilers range is manufactured in the UK, offers a marketleading 12-year warranty and has a Good Housekeeping Reader Recommended Award.

The TV campaign will be supported with wider marketing activity including video-ondemand, social media, digital display and PR. Jo Shepherd, chief marketing officer for Groupe Atlantic, owners of Ideal Boilers, said: “We were blown away by the success of our first ad campaign with Blue earlier this year.

SIMPLY FUNDS THREE EXCAVATORS FOR HAWKES GROUP Simply, the SME funder, recently provided a £225K funding facility to the Hawkes Group to enable it to buy three excavators to work on further demolition contracts.

We saw huge spikes in brand awareness, and we’re building on that now by really driving home messaging around the quality and reliability of our boilers, communicated in an entertaining way.

“The aim is to make the job easier for our installer and merchant partners, by driving demand from end-users.”

Hull-based Ideal Boilers has also extended its original two-year sponsorship deal with West Bromwich Albion Football Club to bring back the infamous ‘Boilerman’ mascot for the 2020-21 season.

The unusual mascot hit headlines around the world in 2018, and official Boilerman merchandise is now available to buy online, and is collected by fans in all corners of the globe.

Jo Shepherd continued: “Our football sponsorship has provided a fantastic platform to introduce more people to our brand and our products.

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“The fans have given us a warm welcome and working with the club is a pleasure. We are both ambitious British brands with long-standing heritage and plans for future growth, and we look forward to another two seasons of joint success.”

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Boilerman is set to play an increasingly prominent part in Ideal Boilers’ consumer marketing activity in 2020, to capitalise on his popularity since being introduced to the public last year.

Ideal Boilers was founded in Hull in 1906 and employs more than 800 people.

Latest News

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orthampton- based Hawkes Group is one of the fastestgrowing construction industry partners in the UK, offering a full range of services from demolition, civil engineering, plant hire, earthworks, hard landscaping, recycling and site cleaning.

It has worked on some of the most iconic buildings in the Midlands and with a range of businesses including schools and hospitals.

Recently Hawkes Group, founded by group managing director Reece Hawkes, bolstered its senior team with two new directors and shareholders - Paul and Selena Bailey. As serial entrepreneurs, they saw the potential in the company and together the team now plans to grow it into an industry leader. To do this the right plant and machinery needs to be in place.

Reece Hawkes, group managing director, Hawkes Group, said: “Our client-focused approach to construction is at the core of what we do. From the very beginning we knew that we needed to differentiate ourselves from other providers in this space and, as part of this, we needed the right kit to do so. Simply has an ethos around great service and customer satisfaction which is very similar to our own. Penny and I have developed a relationship based on our mutual understanding of the economic climate of this industry and she is always at the end of a phone whenever I need to talk to her. And on top of this, getting the funding was an incredibly simple process with automated documents and a quick turnaround. We are delighted to be working with such a forwardthinking organisation in order to fulfil our goals and have already started talking about the road sweeper we want to buy next!”

Penny Dee, national sales manager at Simply, said: “I’ve worked with Reece for a number of years and I love how he is fully committed to his company. Hawkes Group has always been a very professional, successful, customer-focused business. As such, we were happy to listen to his proposals and fund the plant he needed. The business’ credentials have gone from strength to strength and now, with an expanded senior team, I look forward to seeing the leaps it will take in the future.”

Hardies Property & Construction Consultants, one of Scotland’s largest independent firms of Chartered Surveyors, has acquired Glasgowbased Allan & Hanel Chartered Surveyors, marking the latest stage in its strategy to expand its operations throughout the West of Scotland.

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he acquisition comes 15 months after Hardies, which serves clients in the private and public sectors with a comprehensive operation in property and construction development, acquired Glasgow-based Construction Cost Consultants Binnie-McKenzie Partnership.

Founded 25 years ago, Allan & Hanel has grown into a well-known and respected professional consultancy in the construction industry, providing expert advice to clients across various sectors in the UK. The acquisitions of Binnie-McKenzie Partnership and Allan & Hanel have added £1 million to Hardies’ turnover, which is now approaching £7 million, and takes it from employing no Quantity Surveyors in the West of Scotland 15 months ago to a team of 10, making it the company’s largest team of Quantity Surveyors in Scotland and taking its Glasgow headcount to some 20 surveyors.

Murray Warner, Partner at Hardies, said: “Following our merger with Shepherd Chartered Surveyors three years ago, we have been able to pursue our growth strategy throughout the West of Scotland.

“We have 10 offices across Scotland and, as part of our growth strategy, recognised a need for local Quantity Surveying expertise in Glasgow to complement our local Building Surveying team.

“There are many synergies between Hardies and Allan & Hanel and this deal will enable us to

benefit from two different client streams, having quickly identified Graeme Davidson as someone who will be an important part of our leadership team in the West of Scotland working alongside Stewart Binnie-McKenzie and Gary Skene.”

Graeme Davidson, Director at Allan & Hanel, added: “What appealed to us about this deal is that Hardies shares our thinking in terms of the quality of service we deliver and how we look after our staff. It is a fantastic opportunity that enables us to bid for more public work and frameworks and expands the range of projects we can undertake for existing and new clients.

“And having established the firm over the last quarter century, the arrangement presented the opportunity for founding Director David Allan to retire while we embark on a new stage of development as part of an enlarged team delivering an enhanced range of services.”

David Allan said: “I am confident that joining forces with a like-minded progressive firm like Hardies represents a very positive opportunity for Graeme and the other members of our hard working and talented team, and while I will no longer be directly involved, I wish them every possible success.”

Under the terms of the deal, former Allan & Hanel staff will become Hardies employees.

The acquisition means that, having outgrown their existing premises in the heart of Glasgow city centre, Hardies and Shepherd Chartered Surveyors are now actively seeking larger premises in the city.

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“From the very beginning we knew that we needed to differentiate ourselves from other providers in this space and, as part of this, we needed the right kit to do so. Simply has an ethos around great service and customer satisfaction which is very similar to our own”.

HARDIES ACQUIRES ALLAN & HANEL IN LATEST WEST OF SCOTLAND DEAL

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Fabric Ducting is a diffuser that’s mounted fully in the room or space to be conditioned and has become a main stream product over the last few years, with Prihoda supplying systems for IKEA (more later), Delmonte, Butlins, Amazon, Rolls Royce, Unilever and hundreds of other projects.

Because no two rooms are the same every Fabric Ducting system is custom designed for each space served, there’s no stock product and no two ducts are ever the same. Available in a variety of shapes (round, half round, quarter round, ellipse, square etc) to suit different physical or aesthetic demands fabric ducting is made to the shape and length required by the space. There are many different diffusion options each designed to create the perfect air pattern demanded by the activity in the room. Typical applications include offices, swimming pools, industrial, retail, food processing, manufacturing, sports and leisure, cleanroom/labs etc.

Recycled Material

Architect Projects

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Since 2013 Prihoda has been able to provide fabric ducting systems with a polyester material that has been made from recycled plastic bottles. Essentially the yarn we use to weave our materials has been spun out of PET plastic recycled drinks bottles.

The plastic is chipped and melted prior to being filtered to a high standard to remove impurities.

This enables Prihoda to offer a recycled fabric ducting product that is made from 100% post consumer recycled waste. We know that each M2 of fabric ducting material uses the equivalent of 13 x 500ml plastic bottles allowing us to tell our customers exactly how many plastic bottles they have re-used. A recent project we completed for IKEA at Greenwich re-used over 52,000 plastic bottles. The product is recycled and recyclable.

Additionally as recycled plastic is introduced as an existing material within the production process, energy, water and harmful Co2 emissions are considerably reduced.

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Recycled material is available as a permeable material allowing one to cool below dew point without condensation and a non-permeable option for heating and tempered make up air. Additionally Prihoda offer 9 standard colours at no additional cost and the option to print the ducting with any colour, logo, design or pattern, providing much greater aesthetic opportunities within the space served.

paul@prihoda.co.uk

0121 320 2496

www.prihoda.co.uk

THERE’S NO DUCTING THE GREEN ISSUE. Prihoda Recycled Fabric Ducts look and perform in an identical way to our standard range but are made from 100% POST CONSUMER recycled material that could have headed for landfill or found their way into the world’s oceans.

BE GREENER WITH PRIHODA >>

By using Repreve, we save 13 x 500ml plastic bottles for every m2 of material we use

LEADING INNOVATIONS IN FABRIC DUCTING 2) Fabric ducting & diffusers made from 100% Recycled Material.

for more information visit prihoda.co.uk

info@prihoda.co.uk www.prihoda.co.uk 0121 320 2496

People On The Move Hardies appoints Associate Quantity Surveyor in Glasgow office Hardies Property & Construction Consultants has appointed James Beckwith as an Associate Quantity Surveyor in its Glasgow office.

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n experienced and commercially astute Quantity Surveyor, Project Manager and Construction Consultant, Beckwith qualified as a Chartered Quantity Surveyor in 2008, was made a Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors in 2013 and a Full Member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators in 2017. He holds masters degrees in Surveying and History and a PgDip in Construction Law. Having worked on projects in the UK, Australia and the Middle East, Beckwith has had an international career spanning 15 years in construction, including work on such major developments as the Greenwich Design District, the Rockhampton Hospital Extension and the Albion Flour Mill.

Established in 1913, Hardies Property & Construction Consultants is an established and respected multi-disciplined practice specialising in Construction Services, Project Management, Building and Quantity Surveying, Energy Services, Principal Designer and Clerk of Works.

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In 2016 Hardies merged with valuation surveying firm Shepherd Chartered Surveyors and acquired the quantity surveying firm Binnie McKenzie Partnership in Glasgow in 2018. The combined operation has 34 offices in Scotland with a staff of circa 450. The firms are now unrivalled in their reach and service offering.

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Congratulations to Ian Williams’ apprentice Zoe Evans for her triple win at the CITB Apprenticeship Awards 2019, most notably Apprentice of the Year, Great Britain Leading property services partner, Ian Williams is delighted to announce that its apprentice Zoe Evans came away victorious with not one, but three awards at the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) Apprenticeship Awards 2019. 21-year old painter and decorator Zoe, beat off the competition to win Regional Apprentice of the Year Wales West, Apprentice of the Year Wales, and exceptionally, Apprentice of the Year, Great Britain.

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elebrating the achievements of apprentices and employers across the UK for their commitment and dedication to construction skills, the awards are the highlight of the apprentice year. The winners were presented with their awards at a ceremony hosted by broadcaster and property entrepreneur, Sarah Beeny at Merchant Taylor’s Hall in London.

Caesarstone UK welcomes new Sales Manager for London Caesarstone, the global leader in high quality engineered quartz surfaces, has appointed a new Sales Manager for London.

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elara Etemadi has joined Caesarstone’s UK sales force as part of the team’s ongoing expansion, in line with the brand’s continuing nationwide growth.

Zoe completed a level 2 apprenticeship in painting and decorating and went on to achieve her Advanced level 3 with the support of the award-winning Ian Williams’ Academy.

Delara brings her extensive account management experience to Caesarstone UK and will be responsible for growing the brand’s footprint in West and South London.

Describing her win as amazing, Zoe comments: “I’ve loved every single part of my apprentice journey, from the classroom learning to the practical application and the more creative aspects of the job. I want to thank my mentor, Ken MacKay and my employer Ian Williams Ltd. It’s a really good feeling to know that I’ve been recognised in this way. I’d definitely recommend an apprenticeship to anyone willing to work hard, have goals and go full out to achieve them.”

Amir Reske, Managing Director for Caesarstone UK said: “2019 has been a strong year for Caesarstone UK and our growth is on track with our longer-term strategic plans. We have made a significant number of sales team appointments this year, as well as opening our new Manchester distribution centre and showroom, all of which underpins our commitment providing the best service to our partners as well as the best products.”

Editor’s Choice

Lighting controls for retrofit or new build Save time, money and energy with DANLERS energy saving lighting controls. All standard products are easy to install and can make use of existing wiring - perfect for either retrofit or new build projects.

PIR occupancy switches Photocell switches PIR occupancy switches with scheduling Daylight linked dimming PIR occupancy switches Time lag switches Dimmer switches Technical advice Site visits Plan marking Manufactured in the UK 5 YEAR WARRANTY Contact us to help you make The Right Choice.

T: 01249 443377.

E: sales@danlers.co.uk www.danlers.co.uk DANLERS Limited, Vincients Road, Chippenham SN14 6NQ

VICTORIAN HOUSE HEATING EFFICIENCY TO IMPROVE RRN120001 The Henley Fan.indd WITH SPACETHERM® INSULATION The heating efficiency of a 1870s three floor semi-detached house in south east London is set to be dramatically improved as a result of the introduction of Spacetherm WL insulation. The challenge of dealing with heating inefficiencies, major heat loss and high heating costs are a common problem with many Victorian buildings and solid wall dwellings.

Property owner Sean Crawford has lived in the property on Kelmore Grove, London SE22 for 15 years and has already made significant investments to improve the energy efficiency of his home and reduce heating costs. Improvements to date include a new condensing boiler, 4-zone heating, draught-proofing, floor insulation, underfloor heating, loft and bay window insulation, solar PV panels, double glazing and many more. However, even with all of this work, when the heating is not on, the living room is still cold, with much of the heat loss down to the solid wall construction.

Over the years I’ve reviewed what is available and disregarded it as a possible solution/ improvement.

I’ve even tried other thermal wall lining products, but unfortunately, I have to say they don’t work very well.

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It was only recently that I came across Spacetherm WL from the A. Proctor Group.

The reasons that I chose to use Spacetherm WL are, that it is super thin and highly insulating. I won’t have to remove marble fireplaces, reinstate radiators, and window surrounds. The product is very easy to install, which means I can fit it myself as a DIY project, unlike external wall insulation, and importantly I can fit one room at a time, which works well as I have four other rooms to insulate which all have external solid walls.”

Spacetherm WL is a high-performance laminate specifically designed to be fixed to the internal surfaces of existing solid walls without the need for mechanical fixings. Spacetherm WL consists of Spacetherm aerogel insulation blanket bonded to 3mm Magnesium Board (MgO), for use in applications where improved thermal performance is required with limited space.

At just 13mm thick, the use of Spacetherm WL has virtually no negative impact on floor space, making it ideal for refurbishment projects where space is at a premium. Typically, a solid wall will have a U value of around 2.1 W/m2K. Following the application of Spacetherm WL, this can be reduced to around 0.8 W/m2K, dependent on the wall structure.

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Sean explains, “Our living room is long and has solid external walls at the front and side. Living in a Victorian house we have a lot of original cornicing in the living room that with standard internal insulation would be ruined. Also, most insulation types would lead to a significant loss of internal space. External wall insulation could be done at the side return, but this still fails to address the front of the property, which would have the frontage ruined if you decided to apply it.

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View more Case Studies on our website... www.proctorgroup.com Twitter: @proctorgroup Email: contact@proctorgroup.com Phone: +44 (0) 1250 872261 25/11/2019 12:30:24

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Editor’s Choice BBA CERTIFICATION FOR RCM PRODUCTS – QUALITY GUARANTEED! RCM are delighted to announce that three further products have successfully achieved the prestigious BBA accreditation.

Through extensive testing RCM have secured BBA approval for its Supertech Weatherboard, Multipurpose sheathing board and Renderflex render carrier board.

The BBA - British Board of Agrement was initially set up back in 1966 by the government of the day.

Today the BBA is an independent body, which provides extensive and independent testing of products designed for the construction industry. BBA accreditation supports today’s government by being an independent voice within the construction sector.

Only products which meet the highest specifications will receive BBA approval as ‘fit for purpose’, bringing great reassurance and ultimately maintaining quality in the construction industry.

RCM offers a wide portfolio of building boards and facades, with its popular A1 non-combustible Y-Wall fibre cement building board having already achieved BBA accreditation a few years ago.

Recently, RCM applied for BBA accreditation for three additional products and after having undergone rigorous testing, an approval was achieved for all three. RCM are highly delighted with this prestigious outcome, confirming the outstanding quality of their sheathing boards, render carrier board and weatherboard façade.

The latest BBA certifications pertain to three of RCM’s popular products: Firstly, Multipurpose, RCM’s A1 non-combustible, cellulose fibre cement building board. With its excellent strength, weathering and mechanical properties it is the perfect choice for multiple applications, especially for buildings over 18m.

Secondly, Renderflex, RCM’s A2-s1,d0 fire rated cellulose fibre cement render carrier board, offering excellent strength, weathering and stability properties when used in conjunction with polymer renders.

And finally, Supertech Weatherboard, a simple to install, fully ventilated cladding system, which has an appearance similar to that of traditional timber cladding but the durability and strength of cellulose fibre cement.

The importance of an independent certificate demonstrates commitment to quality and is further proof of RCM responsibly operating in line with industry best practice and management systems.

“We are very proud of achieving the acclaimed and trusted BBA certification for our products. This accreditation will further bring great reassurance to our customers and highlight the high-performance and reliability of RCM’s products.

“It also enables us to give confidence to architects, contractors and designers to specify and install the RCM range of materials, whether the product is being used

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on its own or forms part of an overall solution, both in internal and external applications.

We believe that the BBA certification will open up new opportunities for RCM and help us to break into new sectors and markets.

We look forward to ongoing business growth and the opportunities which will present themselves.” (Ian Quinton - Managing Director, RCM) For more details call 0800 612 4662 or email info@rcmltd.biz.

05/12/2019 14:05:57

SCOTTISH WINTERS DICTATE UPGRADE TO LEGACY CAST ALUMINIUM GUTTERING ON REFURBISHMENT Eskgrove homes were employed to extensively refurbish a sizeable property in the Glenshee Area of Perthshire. This area of Scotland is well known for winter sports and has its own Ski & Snowboarding Centre, with 36 runs suiting all abilities.

The property, once completed, will comprise of 10 bedrooms, kitchen, reception, playroom, dining room, hall and living room and some parts of the property date back to 1583.

The existing cast iron guttering system needed replacing, but due to the increased capacity required to disperse melted snow from the property rather than just rainwater, simply replacing the system wasn’t an option. A higher capacity rainwater system was required.

Eskgrove Homes liaised with their local builder’s merchant Jewsons to see what the best options on the market were. As both are existing customers of ARP they soon contacted their local Area Sales Manager for Scotland – Archie Pringle for support.

Archie worked closely with Eskgrove and Jewsons to understand the needs of the client and ensure that the right product was specified. Archie was also able to provide free samples of the material and the special colour of RAL 7001 Matt Silver that the client required, before the order for the material was placed.

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Archie specified Legacy Cast Aluminium Deep Flow Guttering, as it is made from Cast Aluminium and is specifically designed to replicate cast iron. However, in this instance, allowance was made for a higher flow capacity for the rain and melted snow. The gutters were teamed with Colonnade Cast Collared Rainwater Downpipes, which again mimics the look of cast iron to provide the heritage style required to suit the property.

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ARP’s Legacy Cast Aluminium Gutters and Colonnade downpipes are an ideal replacement for cast iron due to being lightweight, easy to install and can be coated in over 200 Polyester Powder Coated RAL/BS colours. Aluminium is a naturally occurring and highly recyclable material. It is non-toxic and noncorrosive, and requires very little maintenance over its long lifespan.

Colin Cumberland, Director or Eskgrove Homes said “The advice and service provided

by ARP gave us confidence that our choice of rainwater system would be able to handle the challenging weather conditions and also suit the heritage style of the property”.

ARP are happy to work with clients who purchase through merchants, and can offer site surveys and site measures to help expedite the order. If you would like to arrange a site visit, please contact us on 0330 311 4445.

Editor’s Choice Cinderella Incineration Toilets the Burning Questions Answered by LeeSan

What are they: Cinderella incineration toilets burn biological waste at high temperatures, leaving only an insignificant quantity of fine, harmless ash, amounting to the equivalent of about one teacup for four people during one week of use. The toilet may be used around 70 times before emptying is required.

Cinderella incineration toilets are currently installed by over 60,000 users worldwide.

How Do they work: Waste is burned in an integral combustion chamber. The harmless gases from this combustion are dispersed through a vent pipe. In contrast with other toilet systems, incineration toilets eliminate all waste on site without the need for connection to the main sewer or a septic tank.

Correctly used, Cinderella incineration toilets are odourless, hygienic and safe, providing a user experience similar to a normal domestic system. The user simply inserts a paper bowl liner, uses the toilet then presses a button or lever to evacuate and incinerate the waste.

Cinderella toilets are suitable for all ages including children.

Where can they be used: Available around the world for decades, incineration toilets are a commonly used alternative in residential and commercial applications without easy access to public utilities. These include mountain cabins, remote areas, tiny homes, off-grid structures, mobile homes, boats and many more. They do not require a water supply or septic system.

Power Requirement: Cinderella incineration toilets use either 240v electricity or gas as the combustion energy source.

LeeSan are the sole UK distributors for Cinderella Eco Solution incinerating toilets.

Phone: +44 (0)1295 770000 Website: www.leesan.com

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13/12/2019 14:06:58

www.rooflight.co.uk

London Office: 01932 230345 Midlands Office: 0115 939 7554 Head Office and Factory: 0191 273 7738 Fax: 01670 738 080 sales@rooflight.co.uk With vast experience in the commercial and domestic markets, Rooflight Architectural manufacture and supply lantern lights, pitched glazing, and walk-on rooflights to any size or specification. With thin site lines and availability in any colour, we offer a one stop solution, including technical advice, CAD drawings and nationwide installation.

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ARCHITECT@WORK LONDON 2020 29th & 30th JANUARY AT THE OLD TRUMAN BREWERY

SENSORY DESIGN // ACTING NATURAL // CURATED INNOVATIONS An impressive list of industry experts from architecture, development and the arts are set to share their knowledge at ARCHITECT@WORK, 29th to 30th January.

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his two-day trade show with a focus on architectural innovation will take place at The Old Truman Brewery in Shoreditch. It includes free admission for registered trade visitors and complimentary catering throughout, which encourages networking and downtime as well as deal-making opportunities.

Innovation is without a doubt key in the world of architecture and interior design. And that is exactly where ARCHITECT@WORK distinguishes itself in a unique way: all products showcased during the event have first been assessed and approved by a jury of architects and interior designers.

Carefully curated content in a unique, lounge-like atmosphere is what ARCHITECT@WORK offers you.

Take part in one of the talks / panel discussions with names such as Victor Orive (Zaha Hadid Architects), Mark Broom (ACME), Roland Karthaus (Matter Architecture), Matthew Holloway (Grimshaw), Biba Dow (Dow Jones Architects), Rory Harmer (Tate Harmer) and many more.

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Register now to attend the event free of charge: https://registration.n200. com/survey/15mr3wjq1atbg

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Old Truman Brewery Levels G1 & T1 29-30 January 2020

ARCHITECT @WORK LONDON

EXCLUSIVE TRADE EVENT FOR ARCHITECTS AND INTERIOR DESIGNERS with over 200 innovative products and services showcased by manufacturers and distributors All exhibitors go through a strict selection process with an external judging panel, ensuring the presence of high caliber innovations.

NETWORKING in an original and creative atmosphere FOCUS ON SENSORY DESIGN | ACTING NATURAL < Seminars by high profile architects Full programme available online < Materials curation by MaterialDriven < Photo wall selected by world-architects < RIBA pop-up Bookshop < Art

@ATW_INTL #ATWUK @architect_at_work #ATWUK

FREE CATERING

WWW.ARCHITECT-AT-WORK.CO.UK

TER S I G RE E FOR IN ONL REE F NCE A R ENT CODE G USIN2340

CANADA

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Howe Green supplies floor access covers for inspirational university building Over fifty Howe Green 5000 Series Light Duty Aluminium and 7500 Series Medium Duty Aluminium Floor Access Covers were supplied for the award winning Collaborative Teaching Laboratory (CTL) at the University of Birmingham’s Edgbaston Campus.

The 5000 Series is suitable for use in areas with pedestrian traffic and the load performance of the 7500 Series is for cars and light delivery vehicles up to 5 tonnes pneumatic tyre load.

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he robust 6,700 m2 brick structure was designed by architects Sheppard Robson. It has won four awards in the RIBA West Midlands Awards 2019, including RIBA West Midlands Building of the Year.

The CTL has also achieved a BREEM Excellent standard and an EPC A Rating for efficiency.

The building design was meticulously detailed and the materials used were chosen to minimise maintenance and

enhance the life expectancy of the building.

The Howe Green aluminium floor access covers were supplied to main contractor Morgan Sindall Construction and were specified by Sheppard Robson. The covers were installed by the team from Morgan Sindall Construction and infilled with ceramic floor tiles.

In addition to ceramic tiles the 5000 Series and 7500 Series can be used with

marble, terrazzo, concrete, resin, wood or parquet flooring. The 5000 Series is suitable for use in areas with pedestrian traffic and the load performance of the 7500 Series is for cars and light delivery vehicles up to 5 tonnes pneumatic tyre load.

The access covers can be removed, safely and easily, for maintenance purposes with the use of lifting keys or Howe Green Access Cover Skates. The access covers fit perfectly flush with their surround to avoid the risk of hazard from slips or trips.

Available as a single cover, a duct run or as a multipart unit the 5000 and 7500 Series can be supplied in standard sizes from stock. If a custom size is required it can be manufactured to order at the Howe Green manufacturing facility in Hertfordshire.

Howe Green has over thirty six years of experience in supplying floor access covers to the education sector. Howe Green’s access covers can be found in many educational settings including John Moores University in Liverpool, St Bernadette’s Primary School in Antonshill, Scotland, and the University of Surrey.

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If you would like Howe Green to assist with your requirement for a solution to access concealed building services located under hard flooring please call 01920 463230 or visit www.howegreen.com.

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Floors & Flooring DoubleTree by Hilton Harrogate Majestic Hotel & Spa specifies SpringBond The newly rebranded DoubleTree

by Hilton Harrogate Majestic Hotel & Spa, which has just opened in the historic spa town, has specified SpringBond as the underlay of choice in its transformed spa facility.

Following a £15m programme of refurbishment throughout the hotel, the Harrogate Spa now has 540 recycled plastic bottles sitting under its carpeted areas.

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sed in the relaxation lounge, SpringBond, which is manufactured in Yorkshire, fits with the spa’s desire to incorporate the rich heritage of the region, and bolsters its sustainability credentials as well as improving indoor air quality.

Following approval from four world leading adhesives companies - FBall, Uzin, Ardex and Xchem – SpringBond FR, SpringBond’s heavy contract double stick underlay system, is going from strength to strength in the hospitality and leisure sector.

Launched at the Harrogate Flooring Show and during the INDEX Exhibition in Dubai in September, SpringBond FR is ideal for use in hotels, hospitality and leisure establishments.

The revolutionary carpet underlay is available in 7mm for double stick or stretch fit applications and is made from recycled PET plastic bottles (up to 120 per roll) and other single use plastics, offering maximum performance with minimum environmental impact.

James Taylor, Managing Director of SpringBond manufacturer Texfelt added: “SpringBond is a perfect alternative to PU foam; it’s a greener and safer choice when compared to many traditional underlays so is getting the attention of a lot of

hotel brands, especially, at the moment, with consumers becoming savvier about brands’ green credentials. We’re in a fortunate position to have such a topical product and are looking forward to demand continuing to increase.”

SpringBond underlay is fully recyclable at the end of its usable life – creating a closed-loop manufacturing cycle – and contains no harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds), promoting better air quality in buildings.

SpringBond is a partner of non-profit organisation Plastic Oceans, which addresses plastic pollution. For stockists please visit www.SpringBond.co.uk

BONA FLOOR CARE PROGRAM FOR RESILIENT FLOORS – A CASE STUDY Biddle Sports, flooring specialists trained in the use of Bona’s floor care program for all types of resilient floors, has renovated a sports floor at Bishops Walsh Catholic School in Sutton Coldfield.

for the main part of the floor, while RAL 3028 red was used around the perimeter. Two coats of each colour were applied, allowing approximately two hours between coats to dry.

The project, a full renovation of a vinyl sports floor, was completed in just five days.

The Biddle team then applied sports markings to complete the project and applied a final transparent coat of Bona Pure to seal the surface.

The Taraflex vinyl sports floor had become very worn and needed to be replaced or renovated.

Due to the very high cost of replacement, the decision was made to employ Biddle Sports to renovate the surface using Bona’s Floor Care Program. Working in partnership with the Bona technical team the total refurbishment of the floor was completed at half the cost of replacement with a new floor.

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The floor had been repaired many times over the years, and the Biddle team started off by making more than 20 repairs to the surface. Then they used the Bona Power Remove solution which was applied in 40 metre sections, allowing it to ‘work’ on the surface and release the build up of dirt and maintenance product layers for approximately 15 minutes.

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The Bona Floor Care Program for resilient surfaces is an innovative, highly effective program for care and maintenance of resilient flooring. As well as products for keeping the floor clean, there are coatings to refurbish the surface when it has become tired and worn which will totally transform it (by a dramatic change of colour or the addition of logos/ graphics etc) and save the costs and downtime incurred by replacing it with a new floor. Even in heavy traffic areas, surfaces can be sealed for extra durability and long-term protection.

Totally transformed surface ready for sports markings

Bona Limited Tel 01908 525 150 Info.uk@bona.com www.bona.com

While still wet each section of floor was then sanded using the Bona Flexisand 1.9 buffing/ sanding machine, fitted with Bona diamond disc abrasives (80 grit) to key the surface.

After sanding each section, a Bona Power Scrubber (scrubber dryer) was used to remove the sanded slurry from the floor. The surface was then neutralised using clean water and was now ready for the first coat of Bona Pure Colour. RAL 5007, a brilliant blue, was chosen RRN120016 Bona HP.indd 1

Deep cleaning the surface

Repairs made to original worn surface 18/12/2019 09:15:50

THE PERFECT PROFILE One of the biggest mistakes in gardening is failing to prepare the soil properly — by loosening the soil and adding organic matter before planting, gardeners can set themselves up for success. Similarly, correct surface preparation is the key to obtaining beautiful flooring that lasts for decades. Here Claude Besson, country manager for France at surface preparation expert National Flooring Equipment, explains the best techniques for concrete profiling.

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oncrete surface profile (CSP) is a standardized measure for the roughness of a surface that has been established by the International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI). It is expressed with a number from one to nine, where nine represents the roughest finish possible. There are several methods to obtain the ideal CSP for your application, which can be grouped in two broad categories; mechanical and chemical.

Mechanical methods Before starting any concrete profiling, it is very important to remove the old coatings with the right equipment, such as walkbehind or ride-on scrapers. In this way, the removal will be achieved in minimal time, saving a lot of labour and fatigue and damaging the substrate as little as possible. This will also allow the operator to limit the amount of dust and broken parts generated while removing the old material.

This step is very effective if operators use the appropriate blades and shanks, which will optimise tooling-related costs.

After this step, one of the most commonly used techniques for mechanical concrete profiling is abrasion. In this method, diamond grinding erodes the surface and causes a progressive disintegration of the concrete, which results in a flat and relatively uniform surface. Abrasion leads to minimal surface damage and results in a very low CSP, usually around one to three.

Contractors can also use differences in heat to profile a surface, a method known as expansive pressure. In this approach, the surface is heated very quickly to a high temperature, causing the top to peel off.

This is usually done with flame blasting, high pressure water jetting, or steam blasting and results in a rough surface with a CSP of six to nine.

To preserve the surface as much as possible, pulverisation can be the way to go. Small particles travelling at a high speed collide against the surface, removing the top layer.

This method causes minimal damage to the surface and can result in a broad range of CSPs, from two to eight. Pulverisation is commonly done by abrasive blasting — also known as sandblasting — and shot blasting.

Chemical treatments Chemical reaction may sound like an obsolete and environmentally unfriendly solution, but there are still applications in which this is necessary. If the job site cannot accommodate big machinery and the substrate is so compromised that hand-held devices are not powerful enough, chemical treatments might be the only solution.

This method involves applying a solution of water and muriatic or citric acid to the concrete with a low-pressure sprayer or a plastic sprinkling can to remove the superficial cement paste and expose the fine aggregate. Acid treatments produce a very light profile similar to fine sandpaper. Since light profiling is suited to thin coatings, this method is ideal for microtoppings that are less than 10 mm thick.

During the chemical treatment, toxic materials can be released, so it’s essential that operators wear personal protective equipment such as goggles. It’s also important to prevent contact between machinery and acid, since this could corrode any metallic components. Lastly, operators should be aware of local regulations on how to safely dispose of acid and contaminated water.

Gardeners know that well-prepared soil is essential for healthy and beautiful plants.

Similarly, you should make sure that the floor is properly prepared to ensure that the coating or covering will adhere correctly.

To find out more about how we can help you choose the best concrete profiling method, visit https://www.nationalequipment.com.

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Gardeners know that wellprepared soil is essential for healthy and beautiful plants.

Similarly, you should make sure that the floor is properly prepared to ensure that the coating or covering will adhere correctly.

Lastly, when a very rough profile is needed, contractors can consider the impact technique, which is usually done with a bush hammer or scarifier. In this method, the substrate crumbles as a result of repeated impact by a hardened point, which causes the aggregate and cement paste to crack.

This damages the surface considerably but allows the contractor to obtain a very rough profile with a CSP ranging from four to nine.

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Project News WORK BEGINS ON £800,000 RESTORATION OF 19TH CENTURY HOLMFIRTH MILL Leeds-based specialist contractor, Priestley Construction, has commenced the £800,000 restoration of Green Lane Mill in Holmfirth into 11 luxury, two-bedroom apartments.

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riestley Construction was awarded the contract to carry out a six-month construction programme on behalf of the developer, Green Lane Mill Developments Ltd.

“We have an unrivalled track record in transforming disused, historic buildings throughout the UK into high-specification new homes and Green Lane Mill adds to growing client portfolio.”

The project will see the contractor transform the 19th century mill building into a high-specification residential development for local owner-occupiers. Work is expected to be completed early Q2 2020.

Gillian Archer, property director of the developer, Green Mill Developments Ltd, said: “Priestley Construction is renowned for bringing developments of this kind to life, so it was a natural fit to appoint them as main contractor for this project.

Green Lane Mill is situated approximately one mile from Holmfirth town centre and seven miles from Huddersfield.

Prospective residents will benefit from easy access to the Peak District National Park, which is approximately four miles south of Holmfirth.

The development is designed by architects, Priestley Design Ltd, with Indigo Planning acting as planning consultant.

Rob Pell, head of construction at Priestley Construction, said: “Our specialist team is working hard to bring this stunning mill, which has been vacant for two years, back to its former glory.

“We are thrilled to begin the transformation of this impressive mill into high-end, luxury accommodation.

The design and specification of the development will keep the unique characteristics of the building, which sits in the stunning surroundings of Holmfirth.”

“We have an unrivalled track record in transforming disused, historic buildings throughout the UK into high-specification new homes and Green Lane Mill adds to growing client portfolio.”

Work commences on former Milnrow police station Work has begun to convert an old county police station in Milnrow, Great Manchester, into six contemporary two-bedroom apartments.

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he project will include temporary propping, demolition and structural alterations.

work estimated to complete in Q4 2019. The development will then be sold to owner occupiers and investors.

Following this, new stairways and walls will be fitted throughout, creating six highspecification homes.

Rob Pell, head of construction at Priestley Construction, said: “The transformation of this traditional community building into a stunning, modern space will ensure it remains a home for generations to come.

Planning for the village police station, located on Newhey Road, was secured as part of a joint venture between the developers, Priestley Homes and Immedilet in 2018.

Main contractor Priestley Construction is carrying out the £300k conversion, with

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disruption as possible to children and staff.

Humpty Dumpty Day Nursery is based in Lichfield and is one of the city’s longest established private children’s day nurseries.

The state-of-the-art premises provide full day care for children from six-weeks-old to school age.

Philip Siddell, Director at Humpty Dumpty Day Nursery, said: “We have been at the forefront of childcare provision for the past 32 years and this project will significantly enhance our capacity and capability, ensuring we stay at the cutting edge of early years education well into the future.

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he works will see the firm construct a two-storey extension which includes a new extended kitchen and carry out internal refurbishments alongside drainage and utility services over a 36-week period.

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NOVUS APPOINTED TO £1.23M CONSTRUCTION PROJECT AT HUMPTY DUMPTY NURSERY Contractor Novus has been appointed to deliver a £1.23m project for the Humpty Dumpty Day Nursery in Lichfield.

“It is important that the local area benefits not just from new-build homes, but from the renovation of heritage buildings with character, which will help to embrace the community’s longstanding history.”

Dean Povey, Operations Manager at Novus, said: “We’ve built up the necessary expertise and experience to carry out projects of this type in the education sector over the past few years, but we also recognise the need for the work to be completed on time and cause as little

“This project will help ensure the nursery can continue to provide outstanding education facilities for Lichfield’s future generations.”

“Right from the start Novus’ staff recognised the need to carry out the project with as little disruption to children, parents and staff as possible and they are delivering this to the highest standards.

We’re very much looking forward to seeing the finished project.”

Project News MOSAIC-DESIGNED BASE GLASGOW STUDENT HOUSING DEVELOPMENT OPENS DOORS Soller Real Estate’s Base Glasgow, the student housing development designed by Mosaic Architecture + Design, has opened its doors in time for the new student term.

Leicestershire Quarry Restoration Following the successful completion by local firm Mick George Ltd of the initial stages of the Ellistown clay pit site restoration, which Ibstock Brick operates to extract clay for their brick production process, they have now been granted planning permission by Leicestershire County Council for the second restoration project in the vicinity involving the prestigious Leicester Quarry, which could create 14-full time employment opportunities.

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he original consent previously granted for the extraction of clay was for a large void occupied by deep water, constituting a permanent, unnatural landscape.

Following agreement with Ibstock Brick to submit a revised application, Mick George Ltd will now be restoring the site to its former levels and previous use.

The new proposal will see Mick George Ltd infill the quarry using inert soils, enabling the land to be restored close to pre-development ground levels, while contributing towards wider landscape improvement objectives and policies set-out by the County Council and The National Forest.

The intention is to start importing suitable materials at the south west of the site, progressively working northwards towards Leicester Road, reinstating land sequentially ahead of latter phases in the east and south of the site.

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amenity space also breaks out into the upper courtyard to ensure this external space is used as part of the everyday life of the building.”

The stone-clad student residential development at Dunblane Street, Glasgow offers a mixture of studio apartments, sixbedroom cluster flats and accessible studio apartments. The bedroom accommodation takes the form of a U-shaped plan, which reinforces the existing street pattern and steps back from the listed buildings at the upper level.

Nick Treadaway of Soller Real Estate added: “Our BASE Glasgow development brings to the city centre 301 high specification student units and is located within three minutes of the RCS. Illustrating our desire to develop first class properties, we collaborated with the RCS to design a number of elements to accommodate some of the finest music and dramatic art students in the world. BASE is fitted with soundproof music practice facilities, a high quality gym, and a cinema room – to name a few of its features. This is the first of Soller Real Estate’s developments in Glasgow with more exciting schemes in the pipeline in both Glasgow and the wider UK.”

eveloped for the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (RCS), the building was conceived as a rectangular urban block alongside the B-listed Piping Centre and A-listed Scottish Ambulance building.

Supporting this is a suitable amenity space provision, including practice rooms, dedicated study areas and common rooms for socialising. A private landscaped courtyard area offers multifunctional external amenity space for residents, along with a secure bike storage area within the lower ground and ground floor areas.

Neil Haining, Director of Mosaic, said: “The development has been carefully designed in response to the site’s immediate context and the surrounding townscape in this part of the city and provides a new urban block with appropriate scale and quality of materials.

The overall scale of the development has been carefully balanced with the B-listed Piping Centre and A-listed Scottish Ambulance Centre to the west of the site and the more recent higher residential developments to the east.

The ground floor forms the primary access level with the primary entrance off McPhater Street.

This level also supports a large percentage of the student amenity space which is focused around the entrance onto the public square. The

Located on an entire street block bounded

by Dunblane Street, Milton Street, Larbert Street and McPhater Street, Base Glasgow is within walking distance of the University of Strathclyde, the University of Glasgow, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow School of Art and the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, as well as all other colleges, institutes and campuses in the city.

The building is equipped with a variety of outstanding facilities for residents, centred around the main social hub and spacious common room, with study areas, a large games room, a state-of-the-art gym, and an on-site cinema room as well as multiple practice rooms which are perfect for music, dance or drama practice.

Prestige Student Living is the premium brand of Homes for Students, one of the UK’s leading providers of student accommodation.

A series of ecological and conservation benefits are set to be gained through the project, most notably the introduction of grassland, broadleaf woodlands, wetlands and species rich hedgerows, forming valuable habitat corridors, consistent with local biodiversity plans and National Forest strategic objectives.

The announcement signifies a landmark twentieth quarry operated by the Mick George Group. The business has extensive experience fulfilling restoration programmes in live working environments, ensuring little disruption to the local community. This has been particularly evident at the nearby Ellistown quarry, where the company has managed to considerably reduce the forecast, first phase of infill from seven years to within four years – another project in collaboration with Ibstock Brick Ltd.

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Since expanding its operating region into the Leicestershire area, the beneficiaries have been felt far beyond the primary construction market. A handful of local groups have taken advantage of the dedicated community fund that the business makes available, which has to date supported in excess of 120 separate initiatives, totalling more than £4million.

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SEVEN SUSTAINABLE BASICS TO DELIVER A LOW CARBON FUTURE?

Decarbonising construction is firmly on the agenda. The government’s Future Homes Standard means that all buildings must be net zero carbon in operation before 2050, with new buildings meeting this standard by 2030.

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eeting these targets will require a rapid decrease in the use of carbon-intensive building materials in the next few years and an increase in low-carbon alternatives.

Building materials account for roughly 19% of the UK’s total greenhouse gas emissions .

The Future Homes Standard promises ‘worldleading efficiency standards’ and it has been followed by the UK Green Building Council Advancing Net Zero Carbon Programme, the Architects’ Journal Retro First Campaign and the RIBA Sustainable Outcomes Guide 2019 all of which point to a low carbon future.

We asked sustainable builder’s merchant, Ecomerchant, to offer more practical advice on sustainable construction.

Retrofitting homes to standards compliant with the UK’s newly adopted net zero emissions target will be vastly more complicated than building them to perform well in the first place. It may also be a harder sell to convince someone with a recentlybuilt home to retrofit it – potentially needing tailored policy action – than someone with an older property where the bill savings will be even greater. How carbon reductions are achieved in existing housing stock is vital to meeting the published targets.

The lack of urgency in reducing carbon is greatly concerning, especially when the mechanisms to achieve it are readily available through standards, such as Passiv Haus and the AECB Building Standard, and retrofit programmes, such as EnerPHit, and all already well understood and proven.

We asked sustainable builder’s merchant, Ecomerchant, to offer more practical advice on sustainable construction. Ecomerchant has used this simple approach for many years and points to the fact that many of its customers are already delivering to standards exceeding the 2050 targets.

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The seven basics of sustainable construction

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1. Use enough insulation Most buildings are built with too little.

Simply stated, the more insulation you incorporate into the structural elements of your home (such as the walls, roof and floor), the more heat it will retain and the more efficient it will be in use, don’t forget to consider using insulation with good acoustic properties too. This is not an area to scrimp on or to cut corners, it is one of the few

A sustainable approach to fabric first Target

Principle

Method

Optimal thermal performance

Fabric first: let the building do

Ensure that all elements

– near zero running costs, healthy indoor air quality and

the work to create a healthy efficient home.

are planned and delivered as specified.

exceptional comfort.

Wall, floor and roof; design for maximum thermal performance Insulation throughout the envelope to optimise thermal efficiency

On-site sewage treatment and water management

things that is near impossible to put right cheaply later. When was the last time you heard someone complain they had “over insulated” their house?

2. Design in airtightness Build tight, ventilate right is the mantra.

Fewer gaps in your home’s structural envelope mean less heat lost to the outside world. Good air tightness maximises the efficiency of insulation and reduces fuel bills.

Ventilation can be passive, mechanical or both, this will need to be part of your design.

3. Use the buildings thermal mass to best effect Materials such as masonry, brick and concrete create ‘thermal mass’ in a building which can absorb warmth from the sun’s rays (or other heat sources) during the day and release it into the home as external temperatures drop – helping to maintain a comfortable internal environment. Many natural building products (typically natural insulation materials) enhance thermal mass and help the building moderate the internal environment. Used correctly, this thermal store can help to reduce energy consumption.

4. Make the best use of natural light Maximising the amount of natural light in your home – through good use of windows, roof lights, sun pipes, etc. – will help to reduce your need for artificial lighting.

Windows and doors form a part of the building shell so the use of performance timber windows and triple glazing can really help the building’s overall thermal performance. Modern performance windows can be very efficient with whole window U

On-site renewables Renders, plasters, paints and finishes chemical free, sustainable, healthy Airtightness to ensure controlled environment

Breathable membranes and products to manage air quality and moisture

Ventilation and heat recovery to optimise performance Windows and doors to complete the envelope

values as low as 0.8W/m2K. ‘Solar gain’ or heat captured through windows from the sun can be used to help heat a building and combined with thermal mass to help reduce heating bills. The fitting of windows is a key part of ensuring long lasting building performance, as they form a critical part of the building shell. This is another area where buying too cheap is a false economy.

5. Choose green and sustainable materials There are various ways to ensure the products and materials you use are as green as possible. As the building becomes more energy efficient and demands less power,

the proportion of the carbon embodied in the building materials becomes a greater proportion of the whole and so the choice of natural materials becomes more important.

Look for EPD’s, eco certifications such as FSC and manufacturers with low carbon sustainable production, product recyclability and a cradle to cradle mentality.

6. Structural systems - choose your system early in the design process All construction systems can be adapted to meet good levels of energy efficiency, but some lend themselves more immediately to hitting the highest standards. Ecomerchant supports a fabric first approach to building, where getting the choice right early on is critical.

7. Deploy renewable technologies only after your shell design is complete The golden rule here is design the building to do the work then match your energy needs to that level. Current regulatory changes to Part L and F point towards solar photo voltaic panels, solar thermal panels and groundsource or air-source heat pumps. Remember other renewable options including off grid sewage treatment and rainwater harvesting.

These seven basic principles, when combined with the methodology illustrated above, should ensure that performance, quality and comfort are all delivered on any sustainable build.

Ecomerchant have been supplying sustainable and natural building materials for over 20 years, visit their website at www.ecomerchant.co.uk to learn more

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Retrofitting homes to standards compliant with the UK’s newly adopted net zero emissions target will be vastly more complicated than building them to perform well in the first place.

It may also be a harder sell to convince someone with a recently-built home to retrofit it – potentially needing tailored policy action – than someone with an older property where the bill savings will be even greater.

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Robin Mackenzie Partnership

ABOVE

The Calls, Leeds

Rushey Mead School, Leicester – image courtesy of CORSTORPHINE + WRIGHT BELOW

50 years of providing Excellence in Acoustics RMP is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2019, and having been established in 1969 we are one of the UK’s largest specialist acoustic practices with offices throughout the UK and in France.

To mark this milestone and as part of our celebrations we are opening a new Southeast England Office in Duxford, just 10 minutes south of the historical city of Cambridge.

At RMP our client focus is the provision of practical and cost effective solutions for each individual project and we are therefore proud to present our principal building and environmental acoustic consultant David Chapman, who will be INSET Old Trafford Lodge, Manchester – image courtesy of ICA Architects

heading our new Southeast England Office.

RMP has the experience and knowledge to meet every architectural acoustic challenge – from the design of atria, school halls, court rooms and multipurpose spaces through to concert halls, exhibition centres and special needs schools. We achieve the very best results through a combination of experience, the latest computer modelling techniques and a full suite of on-site testing services.

We also offer CPD presentations on a variety of important acoustic issues that can be tailored to your specific needs to address any particular issues.

RMP South East England Address: The Officers’ Mess Royston Road, Duxford Cambridgeshire CB22 4QH

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Contact us: T: 0345 062 0000 E: rmp@napier.ac.uk Web: rmp.biz Twitter: @RMPsoundtesting

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Heating, Ventilation & Insulation Sprayed & Injected Insulation MPI are specialist approved applicators of sprayed & injected Polyurethane foam systems, with over 30 years of experience.

With their unique properties:-

Panasonic Introduces R32 PACi Water Heat Exchanger

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Panasonic’s commitment to developing unbeatable, energy-efficient heating and cooling solutions has resulted in the R32 PACi Water Heat Exchanger for chilled and hot water production. As a first-to-market, this ground-breaking product now provides the option of a Water Heat Exchanger for packaged air conditioning systems.

This new solution offers an efficient alternative to existing boiler systems that tend to be detrimental to the environment. The new R32 WHE fits appropriately with Panasonic’s 2050 Environmental Vision by reducing the amount of harmful greenhouse gas produced and increasing the use of clean energy.

Ideal for small commercial spaces such as retail projects and offices, the R32 PACi Water Heat Exchanger offers a flexible, space-saving unit at only 205mm in depth.

The unit also has two installation options: floor-standing and wall-mounted, depending on the user’s needs. Wall-mounted installation only requires two screws, ensuring a fast fix. The practical design also allows for easy maintenance after installation and is perfect for environments where space is minimal, saving valuable floor area.

The R32 PACi Water Heat Exchanger offers a maximum piping length of 90m making a great solution for heating projects with longer piping requirements.

For more information, please visit www.aircon.panasonic.eu.

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Insulation & Stabilisation From cavity wall, including hard to treat & narrow cavities, under-roof, over-roof, to side walls, floors & soffits.

Also Marine & Buoyancy systems MPI can offer U value calculations to BR443 and Condensation Risk Analysis to BS 5750 to comply with Part L of the Building Regulations.

Class 1 & Class 0 fire rated systems are available together with a range of protective coatings, including vapour barriers, breather membranes, weathercoatings & chemically resistant PolyUrea high performance coatings.

MPI Ltd., Church Street, Westhoughton, BOLTON, BL5 3QW T: 01942 811839 F: 01942 812310 mpinsulations@btconnect.com www.mpinsulations.co.uk

SPACE SAVING A2 INSULATION IMPROVES THERMAL 05/12/2019 11:28:29 RRN117008 ModernOF Plan Insulations Quarter Page.indd 1 24/01/2017 PERFORMANCE BALFRON TOWER APARTMENTS The A. Proctor Group’s Spacetherm® SLENTEX® A2 Aerogel Blanket has been chosen for its superior thermal performance, flexibility and suitability for space-critical applications in the refurbishment of 146 high-rise apartments in Poplar, East London.

The Balfron Tower project involves the upgrading and refurbishment of the Grade II* listed 1960’s building in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets, originally designed by the renowned architect Ernö Goldfinger. The re-design of the 27 storey tower block is part of a development led by architects Studio Egret West, with the interior design coordinated in partnership with Ab Rogers Design.

Balfron Tower Developments LLP is a Joint Venture between Poplar HARCA, Londonewcastle and Telford Homes.

In their concept for the refurbishment Egret West has sought to bring the fabric of the building up to modern-day standards in terms of fire, acoustic and thermal performance.

The concrete walls around the stairways in each apartment were particularly space critical and identified as a weak point for cold bridging. The original specification would have required an additional insulated wall lining of 145mm, whilst

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using Spacetherm SLENTEX® A2 the required highperformance insulation was achieved in less than 60mm.”

In addition to the Spacetherm SLENTEX® A2 blanket, foil encased Spacetherm A2 (CBS) Cold Bridge Strip was also included at window and door junctions to address areas susceptible to cold bridging.

Spacetherm SLENTEX® A2 is the result of extensive research and development to produce a vapour permeable membrane with an A2 fire rating classification. The new insulation is classified as Class A2, s1 –d0 according to the Euroclass system, which classifies the reaction to fire performance of building products.

Spacetherm SLENTEX® A2 is a flexible, highperformance, silica aerogel-based insulation material of limited combustibility suitable for use in exterior and interior applications. Supplied in a variety of finishes, the substantial layers of Spacetherm SLENTEX® A2 meet the requirements for A2 classification (insulation, MgO and plasterboard).

The product optimises both the thermal performance and fire properties of façade systems, enhancing the thermal performance of the ventilated façade and addressing thermal bridging in the façade. It is also useful in minimising thermal bridges around windows in areas such as window reveals.

View more Case Studies on our website... www.proctorgroup.com Twitter: @proctorgroup Email: contact@proctorgroup.com Phone: +44 (0) 1250 872261 25/11/2019 12:41:43

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Alisan Dockerty, project architect at Egret West explains: “The existing wall construction of the Grade II* listed buildings meant that space for traditional insulation was limited in some instances. We chose to apply Spacetherm SLENTEX® A2 Aerogel Blanket from the A. Proctor Group, a high-performance insulation blanket with A2 fire rating, capable of achieving the BRE’s surface condensation analysis target temperatures of 16°C, whilst providing us with a minimum loss of space.

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Air Tightness • Waterproof • Eliminates condensation • BBA Approved • LABC approved • Low K factor • Closed cell • High strength • Excellent adhesion A system for virtually every application

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USING INSULATION TO IMPROVE YOUR HOME’S ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN 2020

By William Bown, Managing Director of SuperFOIL Insulation It’s that time of year when you start to think about New Year’s Resolutions and how you can better yourself in the upcoming year. So this year, how about aiming to cut your carbon footprint by bettering your home’s energy efficiency?

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hether you’re carrying out renovations on your home or just want to cut down on your energy bills, there’s no denying that incorporating a few simple energy efficient design principles will yield a variety of benefits.

Not only is it more sustainable and better for the planet, but reducing your energy use can save you a considerable amount on your energy bills. With good quality insulation you can feel the difference in your home and see the difference in your energy bills.

Using insulation effectively One of the best ways to improve the energy efficiency of your home is to check your existing insulation is doing its job properly and if it isn’t, invest in some quality insulation and install it in the right locations.

Roofs, walls, windows and doors are the main culprits for heat loss in homes.

According to the Energy Saving Trust, 25% of heat generated by your

heating system will escape from a poorly insulated roof, and 30% escapes through walls, windows and doors.

To prevent this kind of heat loss, high quality multi foil insulation in your roof and walls is the best solution.

Multi foil is a type of insulation that’s made up with layers of foil as well as wadding. Coming in neat and easy to install sheets, it’s far more practical than traditional glass wool and foam board and it offers exceptional thermal performance.

Multi foil insulation is warmer and significantly thinner than most other insulation so can easily be used to replace the insulation in your walls, floors or ceilings either on its own, or in combination with other types of insulation.

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Signs that your insulation needs replacing

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There are a number of ways to tell if your insulation isn’t performing properly and therefore reducing your home’s energy efficiency. If you currently have glass wool insulation and it’s been installed for 25 years or more, then it may be time to replace it. Glass wool insulation has been shown to deteriorate after 25 years, becoming more water absorbent and more thermally conductive over time, reducing its effectiveness.

Moist insulation can be a big problem when it comes to the energy efficiency

Wall insulation Heat loss through walls can also have a big impact on energy bills. In general, houses built from the 1990s onwards have basic glass wool cavity wall insulation to keep the heat in.

Meanwhile homes built since the 1920s are likely to have an open cavity, with air acting as a barrier between the layers of brick, which is much less effective. Even older homes may have solid walls without any cavity or insulation at all, which can make it very difficult to keep the warmth in and the cold out.

Even the oldest walls can be better insulated to keep the heat in without too much expense or disruption.

Installing solid wall insulation can shave around £245 per year off energy bills of a typical gas-fuelled semi-detached home, so it’s well worth the investment.

of your home. In the UK climate, it’s not unusual for rainwater to get inside the walls and roof of a property and damage the insulation and, if left, it can grow potentially dangerous mould and lose its effectiveness.

Receiving unexpectedly high power bills can be a sign that your insulation needs replacing and you might also notice some rooms are colder than others when poorly insulated walls and flooring is letting out all of the warmth. Glass wool insulation that needs replacing might appear to have flattened or it could be slightly damp and you can tell if a wall is letting out heat if it feels cold to the touch. In snowy or icy weather, you can also tell if your roof and loft insulation isn’t up to muster by looking at it from outside; if the ice is melting on your roof, but not on your neighbours’ roofs, it might be because you’re letting out too much heat.

Multi foil insulation can be easily added to roofs to prevent heat from escaping and cut the amount that’s spent on heating. Due to its high performance, thin profile, improved air tightness and reflective properties, multi foil is actually ideal for loft insulation and it could give you the excuse for a loft conversion while improving your insulation at the same time.

Glass wool is one of the cheapest and most common types of insulation, but it offers poor vapour resistance and heat reflection and it needs to be much thicker if it’s to offer the same thermal resistance. Multi foil, on the other hand, is much thinner than traditional insulation so takes up less room, and its foil layer reflects heat, stopping it escaping from the building.

Even the oldest walls can be better insulated to keep the heat in without too much expense or disruption.

Installing solid wall insulation can shave around £245 per year off energy bills of a typical gas-fuelled semidetached home, so it’s well worth the investment.

Additionally, applying a layer of insulation on the inside and outside of an empty cavity wall can make a big difference, without adding more than a few inches to the wall thickness.

Using multi foil insulation Multi foil may be quite new, but it’s become a trusted solution for a wide range of projects. We’ve supplied our product to a wide range of restoration projects including historic buildings and brand new, contemporary homes and flats.

It’s the ideal solution to improve the energy efficiency of your home, meaning you’ll be cooler in summer and warmer in winter, as well as helping to save you money and be more environmentally friendly.

As New Year’s resolutions go, insulating your home is worthwhile and extremely cost effective… and it’s a lot easier than shedding a few post-Christmas pounds!

Bad insulation in your walls, roof and floor means air can more easily enter and escape your home, making it hotter in summer and colder in winter.

An obvious reaction to this is to turn your air conditioning and heating on more often, leading to higher power bills.

Roof insulation Hot air rises so improving loft insulation is one of the simplest and most effective ways to dramatically improve the energy efficiency of your home.

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According to the Energy Saving Trust, 25% of heat generated by your heating system will escape from a poorly insulated roof, and 30% escapes through walls, windows and doors.

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THE HOME OF THE FUTURE – NOW. Russell Dean, head of residential heating and ventilation, Mitsubishi Electric

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magine being able to control your energy-efficient LED lights, renewable heating system, smart fridge and monitor your front door, all from your office, or the beach or anywhere that isn’t your home. Smart home technology has been around for a few years now and it is giving users the comfort and security that they know their home is protected and it’s not costing them a fortune with lights left on, or heating systems running without anybody at home.

With a smart home, designed to make homeowners lives easier, and cut down on running costs, it seems a little illogical to be using a heating system that is no longer fit for purpose. Fossil fuel heating systems, gas especially, are products of the 1960’s and yet we are using 21st century technology to control 20th century devices.

BELOW Russell Dean, head of residential heating and ventilation, Mitsubishi Electric

Mitsubishi Electric, one of the pioneers in the development of ultra-quiet heat pumps recognises the importance of being able to control when and how users heat their homes.

The UK is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and while smart homes are an element of that, smart gas boilers don’t seem to be in keeping with the ethos of a true drive towards carbon neutrality.

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No new homes are going to be connected to the gas grid from 2025, so smart homes will have to have a new smart heating system to control. This system will be likely be a renewably energy-based heating unit like an air source heat pump. Seen as the one of the key technologies that can deliver low-carbon home heating, working in conjunction with solar energy and top of the range insulation, heat pumps hold a lot of promise. What makes them more appealing is that they can be fully equipped with smart home functionality, meaning homeowners can control their new and improved, renewable heating unit wherever they may be.

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Everybody knows the pain of having a broken boiler and needing to rearrange your plans to make sure you’re in for the repairman to arrive. With smart home and smart boiler technology, diagnostics and repair solutions can be delivered directly through an app. In some case, such as the Mitsubishi Electric MELConsole system, boiler issues can be diagnosed and fixed remotely.

Mitsubishi Electric, one of the pioneers in the development of ultra-quiet heat pumps recognises the importance of being able to control when and how users heat their homes. That’s why the company

has developed its MELCloud application to enable its Ecodan heat pump users to control their system locally ore remotely by PR, Mac or smart device. With temperature records, users can review their annual usage and plan accordingly for the times when their system will be most needed.

Scheduling features means the system can be turned on just before arriving home, delivering optimum temperatures without having to set in advance.

As the focus for housing increasingly looks at the way in which homes are heated, air source heat pumps are going to become increasingly important to homeowners, installers, contractors and building developers. Understanding the technologies available to not only reduce carbon emissions but also make homeowners lives easier and more convenient is an important step in the green home heating revolution.

Website: www.gb.mitsubishielectric.com/en

Heating, Ventilation & Insulation Consort Claudgen launches 2020 Heat brochure

Water and Electric Underfloor Heating Specialist

Consort Claudgen, the UK manufacturer of electric heating products, has published their latest brochure which introduces a host of new products and feature upgrades.

The 48-page brochure features two new run-back time controllers, advanced controllers which are now compatible with Consort’s RX and SL heaters, as well as heaters with safety monitoring features which will help prevent overheating and identify types of failure.

Also featured are new heater models in the electronic 7-day timer range; including two new ratings in the PLSTiE range, a 2kW low surface temperature fan heater modelled with a mesh grille and intelligent fan control, and heaters fitted with an RF receiver which allows connectivity to Consort’s multizone heating system. All of these are detailed in the brochure along with the established panel and fan heaters, convectors, LST heaters, air curtains, downflows and towel rails.

Download a copy from www.consortepl.com or request at 01646 692172.

MARMOX THERMOBLOCKS SPECIFIED FOR EDINBURGH HOTEL CONVERSION

RRN120019 Consort QP.indd 1

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A former hotel in the Polwarth area of Scotland’s capital is the subject of a complex conversion and reconfiguration project, where Marmox Thermoblocks have been specified by the project consultants to address the critical floor/ wall junction within the new extensions being constructed.

Edinburgh based architectural practice, Morgan McDonnell is renowned for both its new-build and refurbishment work across the city and ‘Old Town’. In the case of the Ettrick Hotel, its client – developer Northumberland Street Mews Ltd. Is creating 6 new residential units within the existing building plus a further 4 across the two extensions.

At the base of the new perimeter walls, the blocklayers have used a total of 117 of the 140mm wide Thermoblock units each one 600mm long and 65mm high. In addition, the merchant stockist involved, St. Andrews Building and Timber also supplied a carton of 10 Marmox MSP 360 Sealant for the purpose of completing the stepped joints.

The site agent, Daren Colvin, confirmed: “We are using Thermoblocks in new external walls inner leaves at the ground floor slab level and also at RRN120069 Marmox HP.indd 1

Each section of Thermoblock is comprised of ultrahigh performance XPS insulation, encapsulating miniature columns of concrete, while the top and bottom are covered by alkali resistant glass-fibre mesh, retaining a surface of fibre reinforced polymer concrete to facilitate bonding.

The concrete columns have a very low conductivity so do not present thermal bridges themselves and when coupled with the highly insulating XPS insulation core, a combined thermal conductivity of 0.47W/mK is achieved.

Crucially, being able to employ a defined, very low thermal transmittance – derived by thermal modelling or measurement – offers a far more advantageous result than adopting the ‘default’ figure offered in SAP which can often result in non-compliance under the Building Regulations or the Building Standards for Scotland.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: MARMOX (UK) LTD. CAXTON HOUSE 101-103 HOPEWELL DRIVE CHATHAM KENT ME5 7NP. TEL: 01634 835290 FAX: 01634 835299 EMAIL: sales@marmox.co.uk WEB: www.marmox.co.uk 05/12/2019 14:51:15

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The Project Architect for Morgan McDonnell, Alice Hibberd commented: “We have specified Marmox Thermoblocks for other projects in the past and chose them in this case as part of our detailing to address the area where a thermal bridge might occur.”

parapet level. The blocks provide us with a simple effective means of forming thermal breaks.”

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Humidity control & low energy cooling

CREATE THE IDEAL INDOOR CLIMATE – ALL YEAR ROUND The drive for energy efficiency in buildings has led to many improvements in air tightness in buildings, yet sometimes without the necessary levels of ventilation to go with it. This can lead to greater concentrations of indoor generation pollutants, higher levels of CO2, or problems with overheating that, as well as contributing to an unpleasant environment, will also speed up release of chemicals from building materials and other sources of contamination. The overall result can frequently be a reduction in Indoor Air Quality.

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umidity Solutions has introduced the HomEvap into the UK market: an innovative humidifier designed to improve indoor air quality and increase comfort and wellbeing in homes and workplaces. The HomEvap opens up new opportunities for providing safe and precise humidity control and/or low energy cooling for residential, commercial or preservation applications.

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Low humidity can cause headaches, sore throat, lack of concentration, itchy eyes and skin. Longer term effects may be deterioration of the function of vital organs and the exacerbation of chronic conditions such as eczema and asthma. Internal furniture and fittings can also be affected, leading to cracking or splitting of wooden floorings or furniture, and deterioration of artwork or musical instruments.

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In many homes a humidifier may not be required, however the HomEvap Cooler can be fitted to the warm air extract prior to the HRU so that in this instance the cooling effect is transferred to the incoming air without the humidity, providing up to 2kw of cooling for 20w of energy, a very energy efficient source of cooling. Both humidity and cooling can be combined if required – HomEvap Combi Comfort- with a single controller providing the brains behind the technology.

Working with your Heat Recovery System to... ...create the ideal environment • • • • •

Low energy evaporative cooler and/or humidifier Reduces irritations such as dry eyes or itchy skin Protects artefacts and wooden floors Alleviates symptoms of Asthma, eczema and other allergies Silent/Discreet - loft or cupboard installation

Mention ARCH to receive an exclusive offer

01372 571200

www.humiditysolutions.co.uk/homevap The HomEvap range, offers four different options so can be precisely tailored to the specific requirements of each home or workspace.

and cooling can be combined if required – HomEvap Combi Comfort- with a single controller providing the brains behind the technology.

Fitted to an air stream such as a Heat Recovery Unit, the HomEvap Humidifier connects inline to provide humiditycontrolled air to space. Using the adiabatic evaporative process, the water wastage is low, as is the energy usage. A built-in heater can warm the air to overcome the cooling effect if required.

If there is no airflow, the HomEvap Direct is the solution. The system is stand alone, using a low energy, quiet fan, and can be discreetly positioned above a ceiling or in a cupboard.

All controls and sensors are included in the package making it a plug and play solution.

In many homes a humidifier may not be required, however the HomEvap Cooler can be fitted to the warm air extract prior to the HRU so that in this instance the cooling effect is transferred to the incoming air without the humidity, providing up to 2kw of cooling for 20w of energy, a very energy efficient source of cooling. Both humidity

The HomEvap range was developed as energy-efficient humidifiers, coolers and combined solutions for offices, homes and public facilities to provide a healthy indoor climate all year round.

To find out more, call 01372 571200 or visit www.humiditysolutions.co.uk

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RRNews - Issue 41

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Heating, Ventilation & Insulation IDEAL BOILERS introduces remote monitoring for social landlords Heating solutions manufacturer Ideal Boilers has launched a cellular remote-monitoring system for its boilers, giving social landlords rich information about their estates without requiring residents’ homes to be connected to the internet.

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he solution, Ideal Diagnostics Cellular, can be installed on a wide range of the company’s boilers and gives landlords access to usage data and fault alerts via a secure and user-friendly online portal. This insight may increase operational efficiency and improve the level of service residents receive.

Detailed remote diagnostics data means engineers will have much more information at their fingertips before even arriving at a property, potentially helping them carry out work more quickly and allowing them to bring the right parts for the job,

which could inform communication campaigns to promote responsible energy use and indicate which properties are in need of upgraded insulation.

innovations designed specifically for our social landlord customers, it will help them deliver even better service to thousands of residents across the country.”

Lizzie Wilkinson, Head of Domestic Product Management at Ideal Boilers said: “We have launched this ground-breaking system in response to feedback from our social landlord customers, who told us they want access to diagnostic information to help them better manage heating systems across their property portfolios.

Ideal Diagnostics Cellular has been tested in a number of field trials and is now available to all landlords looking for a smarter way to manage the boilers in their properties.

Usage data, meanwhile, can be a useful metric in helping to identify vulnerable people that are not heating their homes sufficiently and those living in fuel poverty. Providing effective support for these residents is high on the agenda for social landlords.

“In ID-Cellular, we’ve come up with an easy-to-fit solution that can be installed in virtually any home, regardless of whether it has an internet connection or even a phone line, making it ideal for use on social housing properties.

Similarly, landlords will be able to identify those properties with the highest energy consumption,

“We are proud to be leading the market in making this technology widely available. As the latest in a series of

This launch follows the recent announcement of Ideal Boilers’ new flue solution for high-rise buildings, the first on the market to comply with amended Building Regulations and work with the latest boiler technology, as well as the launch of the Halo Lite programmable room thermostat – a cost-effective solution to Boiler Plus legislation.

For more information, visit www.idealboilers.com.

TREND’S IQ®VISION IS PUT CENTRE STAGE AT EXCEL LONDON As one of the capital’s most prestigious events venues, monitoring and managing energy use and comfort conditions at ExCeL London is vital, which is why it chose to install Trend’s IQ®VISION. Located at the Royal Victoria Dock, when it opened in November 2000 ExCeL London became one of Europe’s largest regeneration projects. In 2019 alone it will play host to over 400 events, welcoming four million visitors to a diverse range of world leading exhibitions, corporate events and association meetings.

Management decision As part of its policy of ensuring that its plant and building services infrastructure operates as efficiently as possible, a Trend building energy management system (BEMS) was installed to replace the existing Sauter system in the phase-1 building at ExCeL London. As part of the project, a Trend 963 Supervisor was installed, which provided a human interface to the phase-1 building initially and then the phase-2 building once complete. Following integration of the phase-1 and phase-2 buildings, the entire BEMS was connected to the ExCeL Local Area Network (LAN), providing network security and the ability for authorised users connected to the LAN to use certain 863 Supervisor functions remotely.

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The 963 Supervisor had served the building well for many years. However, it was relatively old technology and, with such a large area to cover, the management team wanted to allow their team to be able to highlight and investigate energy use and comfort conditions via their Apple iPhones. The 963 Supervisor did not have this functionality, due to limited support of the Java applet. We therefore realised that the time had come to change, so invited Concord – a longstanding Trend Technology Centre (TTC) - to advise us on the next step.’

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Seeing is believing Concord has enthusiastically championed IQ®VISION and the company immediately recognised the benefits that ExCeL London could experience by upgrading its 963 Supervisor to IQ®VISION. Steve Browning, Trend’s partner and end customer marketing communications manager, states, ‘The next generation IQ®VISION integrates Trend controllers, third party smart devices and internet protocols into a centralised software platform that is designed to manage buildings at an enterprise level, and give building owners and managers the ability to identify issues and optimise their systems.

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“It also provides graphical information so they can highlight and investigate energy use, create perfect comfort conditions, and be made aware of any plant based operational issues before they affect occupants”.

Form and function IQ®VISION is configured using the state-of-the-art Niagara 4 interface, which as well as being bold, intuitive and easy to use, utilises HTML5 to provide an array of rich features that are perfectly in tune with the demands of the internet of things (IoT).

This HTML5 functionality means that the Excel London team can now view their BEMS schematics clearly via their Apple devices.

When asked how easy it is to work with IQ®VISION, Richard Ford, Director at Concord replied, ‘Our engineers believe IQ®VISION is a far superior package, which is actually more logical to configure than the 963 Supervisor. Obviously we had a learning curve to go through, however, as with most Trend products there is a fairly simple transition process.’

For further information please call Trend’s marketing department on 01403 211888 or email Casey.Wells@trendcontrols.com

18/12/2019 11:21:35

The Slimfocus is a revolutionary design. The World’s first suspended, closed, wood burning fire, that draws in combustion air at the top of the flue, making it compatible with low energy homes. This versatile fire can be fitted in the centre of a room, in a corner, or even wall mounted. It’s super high efficiency makes it one of Focus’ prestige models. It is also available as a floor standing gas fire. With our Hetas or Gas Safe installation teams, we are able to assist you from initial design to completion of your dream fire.

FOR DESIGNS THAT IGNITE YOUR DREAMS

With the highest energy rating (A++) available, you can be sure that your Mitsubishi Ecodan is working hard to minimise your energy bills. Whisper quiet - Ecodan is endorsed by the Noise Abatement Society’s Quiet Mark.

UK-manufactured and approved for the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) making it eligible for renewable heat incentive payments (RHI). With an average 3-bed family home in the UK needing around 15,000kWh of heating per year, which would pay £7000 under the scheme, you can quickly see how the RHI payments can really make a difference.

For every 1kW of electrical input power, Ecodan can provide the home with an average of 3kW of heat output*. This ‘free’ 2kW of renewable energy is then eligible for seven years of payments from the RHI. Artizan supplies and fits Mitsubishi Heat Pumps to The South East and South West UK. Helping you minimise your carbon footprint and look towards a sustainable future.

Full service and maintenance packages include remote diagnostics to provide you with complete peace of mind.

Contact us on 01344 356 900 or email us at office@artizanlifestyle.com.

Our unique showroom at Artizan House, Eastheath Avenue, Wokingham RG41 2PR is open Monday to Friday 8.30am until 5.30pm, with evening/weekend appointments by prior arrangement. www.artizanlifestyle.com

Providing a flexible and high-performing underfloor air conditioning system at the One Benjamin development One Benjamin is a new mixed-use address in Farringdon. Designed by world-renowned architects Alford Hall Monaghan Morris, and situated directly opposite the new Farringdon station, the building provides 43,562 square ft of office, retail, and residential space.

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he original air conditioning design specified four downflow units per floor: two supplying the rear zone of the building and two for the front zone. Each zone was split into two further zones; one supplying cool air towards the perimeter of the building (where it is needed more to combat solar gain), and the other providing warmer air to the central areas of the office space where there is less heat generated by the sun.

AET Flexible Space had built up a strong working relationship with the main contractor, Knight Harwood, while working on a previous project at 20 Soho Square.

Having seen the advantages of the AET system on that project, Knight Harwood saw the opportunity at One Benjamin to redesign the original Stage 3 hot/cold aisle design and to implement AET’s underfloor air conditioning solution for the three floors of office space. Knight Harwood felt that AET’s highly flexible system would be more suited to cope with the variations in temperature across the building caused by increased/decreased sunlight.

One Benjamin selected AET’s most flexible system, the CAM-V, which makes use of the raised floor void as a plenum for the distribution of supply air, whilst receiving return air back to the CAM unit at ceiling or high level. With a CAM-V system there is a considerable amount of flexibility in where the fantiles can be placed, allowing for easy reconfiguration depending on the particular needs or layout of an office.

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AET’s underfloor air conditioning systems make use of the space beneath a raised access floor to create the air ventilation path, eliminating the need for ceilingbased services and associated duct and pipework. At One Benjamin, each of the three floors was divided into zones of up to 300m2 depending on the potential use and occupancy density of the area.

Each zone is then supplied with chilled or warmed air by a zonal air handling unit or CAM (Conditioned Air Module) and the conditioned air is then delivered into the space using a number of recessed fan terminals (Fantile™).

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One Benjamin selected AET’s most flexible system, the CAM-V, which makes use of the raised floor void as a plenum for the distribution of supply air, whilst receiving return air back to the CAM unit at ceiling or high level. With a CAM-V system there is a considerable amount of flexibility in where the fantiles can be placed, allowing for easy reconfiguration depending on the particular needs or layout of an office.

For maximum flexibility each fantile is supplied with onboard Fanspeed and Set Point adjustment, but in meeting rooms and cellular space AET offers Flextouch™ wall-mounted controllers which allow users not only to adjust the fan speed and

temperature, but also CO2 and humidity monitoring and control.

Headroom height was a key consideration during this design and build, and by using the AET underfloor air conditioning system the contractors were able to eliminate much of the ceiling-based services and ductwork. The offices were developed to provide a sustainable workplace, and have been awarded a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating.

The reduced amount of building materials needed for an AET underfloor system, as well as its long-term flexibility, make it an excellent choice for sustainable building projects. www.flexiblespace.com

RINNAI AND THE ART OF ZEN + ZEN PLUS Rinnai re-imagines home hot water & heating systems

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innai, global leaders in continuous flow hot water heating products and systems, is introducing the Zen and Zen Plus home hot water & heating system which marries established and proven manufacture durability with new technologies to offer great energy efficiencies, user control and, importantly, unparalleled level of comfort.

The Rinnai Zen and Zen Plus system will increase comfort and reduce energy usage whilst also providing a highly economically solution for today’s changing marketplace.

“We are committed to working with installers as our route to market.

The installer is still the major player and, in our view, always will be.”

‘Our core expertise is the mass production of long-term reliable combustion products with advanced technologies – we are a global leader and make over 2 million water heating units every year for domestic, residential and commercial applications.

We have been researching and monitoring the UK domestic heating market for several years until we had a proven system. That time is now, and we are offering hot water heating units together with a superior performance combi boiler in 24, 29- and

35-kW outputs,’ says Chris Goggin, head of Rinnai UK operations.

‘We are not launching into the mass UK boiler market – that is, in our view, a saturated and oversubscribed market which is in the throes of a major upheaval in its structure due to the advent of online direct sales platforms. We are offering something very different. And we are aiming to serve a market sector previously overlooked and almost ignored - the provision of luxury levels of hot water at affordable sums to the middle and top end of the marketplace.

‘Another major difference with the Rinnai Zen & Zen Plus is that the route to market is with installers. We are committed to working with installers as our route to market. The installer is still the major player and, in our view, always will be.’

Some of the features of Zen & Zen Plus are: IOT controller as standard; Fast heating mode; DHW pre-heat function - saving wasted water; Energy monitor function allows user to monitor energy usage; flue runs up to 30 meters, Rinnai boiler App for android and IOS; constant temperatureaccurate hot water delivery at continuous flow rates.

There is also smart Wifi controller and App benefits; The Rinnai app seamlessly connects to the controller in the property; the user can control the boiler remotely adjusting temperature, setting weekly and daily programmes, receiving alarm functions, monitor energy usage and set limits. The Wifi and boiler controller also uses GPS from the user’s mobile to bring on the heat when you are getting close to home to ensure the house is warm when you arrive.

Rinnai Zen & Zen Plus are available for use with both natural gas and LPG.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.RINNAIUK.COM

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Heating Feature Here is how you can save on heating your home this Winter With promises of snow heading to the UK in the coming weeks, household efforts to keep the heat in and the chill out will be ramped up.

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hat’s why Hoppy.co.uk have shared their top tips on how consumers cut back on the cost of heating their home in the run up to one of the most expensive times of the year!

Home interiors

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When looking at the changes you can make around your home to save on your household bills, it’s a good idea to think about your home interiors. For example, lighting can have a vast impact on the look and feel of a room.

However, not only can your choice of lighting affect the aesthetic of a room but the bulbs you choose can also have a huge impact on your energy bills too. Simply changing the bulbs in your home to LED bulbs, can save households on average £7 a year per LED lightbulb, on energy usage and the bulbs can last for two whole decades, saving the additional cost of rebuying. In addition to this, if the crisp winter chill in the air inspires you to overhaul your home interiors, it’s worth considering your choice of paint colour.

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Decorating your home with darker tones such as on trend deep navy will absorb the heat in your home, resulting in a warmer space.

Whereas cooler shades like magnolia and pale grey are perfect for creating a cool living space in the summer Insulate your pipes Having exposed pipes through your house may be costing you money as the heat escaping is simply lost in your home. By wrapping some insulating foam tubes around your pipes, the heat will be contained to the pipes resulted in less heat wasted. Another benefit of insulation is its ability to stop pipes from freezing. Frozen pipes are common during the coldest winter months especially in homes on a budget. By insulating your pipes, you can become more energy efficient in a low-cost manner.

Time your heating Having the heating on 24/7 is costly and whilst it may be tempting to have a cosy home, there are ways of doing it so that you can save energy and money. If you are working, make sure you can put a timer on your heater and set for the heating to come one hour before you wake up and one hour before you return home. By doing this you will save endless amounts on your heating bills whilst keeping your house warm.

Get a little help Those who are really struggling with their heating bills should see if they are eligible for the government’s Warm Home Discount Scheme for this winter. The scheme could give those eligible £140 off their electricity or gas bill. It is advisable for those struggling to check with their energy supplier to see if they are eligible for the scheme. Getting help from this scheme if needed could give many homes the reassurance that they can stay warm and not break the bank doing so.

Switch and save Making small changes round the home is a great way to lower the cost of your energy bills. However, it’s also important to ensure you are on the best energy deal available to you with an energy provider compatible to your household’s needs. Research has shown that if you have been with the same provider for several years then it is likely that you are paying more than you should for your energy usage. Hoppy works with trusted and accredited service providers across the industry to compare all publicly available energy tariffs and offer the widest choice of the cheapest deals available to consumers.

This service enables users to easily switch providers of the cheapest utility, broadband/ tv and mobile deals in the country – and creating savings of up to £458 per year on utilities.

Having exposed pipes through your house may be costing you money as the heat escaping is simply lost in your home.

By wrapping some insulating foam tubes around your pipes, the heat will be contained to the pipes resulted in less heat wasted.

Underfloor Heating and Heat Pumps: The Combo to a Low Carbon Future The unfortunate truth is that gas boilers will soon be phased out and banned from use in new build homes.

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025 is earmarked as the ban start date as the government ramps up its activity to build a low carbon future that is environmentally friendly and sustainable.

work with GSHP and ASHP. Not only that, UFH also helps create more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing homes, because the pipework is hidden from sight, hence creating extra interior space.

In the pipeline to replace gas boilers are low carbon heat pumps – such as ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) and air source heat pumps (ASHPs) – which are powered by electricity.

With UFH projects likely to gain popularity, RWC’s JG Underfloor brand offers a whole suite of UFH solutions to efficiently complete any new build or retro-fit installation.

As heat pumps are typically at their most efficient when heating water up to around 35-40°C, this means they won’t be suitable for use with traditional convection radiators, which need heat to be at 70-80°C to work effectively.

This leaves underfloor heating (UFH) as the most viable heating option when gas boilers phase out. With wet UFH, the system only needs to run between 35-40°C to heat up the water in the pipework and transfer the heat into the room. Making it a perfectly compatible heating method to

With wet UFH, the system only needs to run between 35-40°C to heat up the water in the pipework and transfer the heat into the room. Making it a perfectly compatible heating method to work with GSHP and ASHP. Not only that, UFH also helps create more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing homes, because the pipework is hidden from sight, hence creating extra interior space.

The company offers a free estimation and CAD design service to assist installers with selecting the best system for their project, sourcing the right quantity of material and helping them make the installation as efficient as possible.

Boasting the largest technical sales team in the UK, JG Underfloor experts are also on hand to ensure that installers have all the support required to ensure a fast, simple and efficient install.

For more about JG Underfloor, please visit www.JGSpeedfit.co.uk

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Smart Home Expo 2020: the UK’s Ultimate Event for the Smart Technologies Revolutionising the Way We Live 38% of UK consumers own or use smart technology, and with this number rising it’s evident why smart tech is continuously making the headlines! Welcome to Smart Home Expo.

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he UK’s ultimate event for the smart technologies revolutionising the way we live back for another year on the 17th & 18th March 2020 at Birmingham’s NEC. Continuously bringing you the latest solutions and innovations in smart technologies that are a must for any future renovation or refurbishment project, this year’s show will put its focus into key topics taking the industry by storm - from smart buildings and commercial spaces, to smart homes and their future, Smart Home Expo has you covered.

For 2020, the show is evolving to another level with the launch of the new zone, Smart Buildings LIVE the UK’s hub for the innovations driving Smart Buildings forward.

For 2020, the show is evolving to another level with the launch of the new zone, Smart Buildings LIVE - the UK’s hub for the innovations driving Smart Buildings forward. This feature groups together speakers, panel sessions, workshops and visitors from commercial property end-users to real estate developers - this has attracted a whole other audience to the show.

You’ll be able to shop from 250 world-class suppliers and try before you buy, but Smart Home is much more than just a marketplace where visitors can find the latest

innovations - it is a place where people come together and learn about the industry’s future.

As the epicentre of the smart home and building world, you’ll be under the same roof as the industry giants courtesy of the unparalleled speaker lineup, providing you with 150 inspirational seminars. Throughout both days, seminar theatres will be brimming with information and advice, leaving audiences informed, educated and empowered.

What’s more, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in countless interactive features, join the training sessions at the Smart Building Workshop, be face to face with the most innovative brands in Smart Building technology and attend our Workplace Innovation panel session to learn from the experts what it takes to make your workplace smart.

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With all of this, and more lined up, Smart Home Expo and Smart Building LIVE are sure to become the hub of the smart world, offering all the innovations that are empowering people within the industry. Register for your FREE ticket at www.smarthometechlive.co.uk

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17 & 18

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THE UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ULTIMATE EVENT FOR

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Project News T Gunning completes specialist works to ensure compliance with fire safety standards T. Gunning Ltd, the Chartered Building Company specialising in interior/exterior refurbishment, has successfully completed refurbishment works on six apartment blocks on the Fair Acres estate in Bromley to ensure they are compliant with fire safety standards.

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his major project included fitting some 150 new BM TRADA Q-mark certified fire doors, installing fire stopping, and the removal of hazardous Asbestos under controlled conditions.

In other locations the asbestos was encapsulated to ensure that it could not be disturbed and release potentially dangerous fibres.

The project also included the installation of new fireproof ceiling, upgrading wall finishes, fire risers and communal areas to comply with current fire safety standards.

Belgarum Property Management ltd, the Property Management agency for the developement, say they have a very good working relationship with T Gunning: “We have regular meetings to discuss ongoing works which enables us to resolve any issues from either side. We would not hesitate to invite T Gunning to tender for future work – they are a fair and reputable company and we have been very happy with their work.”

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Contractor Administrator on the project, Matthew Yussuf, Senior Partner at Copeland Yussuf says the team at T Gunning impressed with their ability to solve any issues they encountered: “Fair Acres is a complex estate and the project involved complex detailing; modernising fire safety standards in the blocks, whilst working within the confines of an existing building, managing and co-ordinating not only the works, but the access necessary to complete them,” he says.

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“T Gunning finished the project with positive feedback from all parties, which is a testament to the good communication, the right attitude and the manner the works were carried out.

“We have worked with countless contractors in the past, and we have always been pleased with the way that T Gunning has conducted themselves.”

Willmott Dixon Interiors agrees £39m London South Bank University fit-out Willmott Dixon Interiors has been chosen to deliver a £39m refurbishment at London South Bank University’s (LSBU) London Road Building.

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t extends the substantial presence that both Willmott Dixon’s construction and fit-out businesses have in the universities sector with over £250m of work currently being delivered or recently completed.

This latest project will see Willmott Dixon Interiors transform LSBU’s London Road Building into a dedicated learning zone. It is a key part of its wider redevelopment project at its campus at Elephant and Castle which aims to consolidate the University’s position as a top London Modern University and building on awards for two successive years as University of the Year for Graduate employment (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide).

“The Wilkinson Eyre Architects design for London South Bank University’s ‘Learning Hub’ ensures our facilities, learning spaces, and technology remain fit for the future.”

When complete, the new learning zone will create new and different ways of engaging students and supporting their learning needs.

It will provide a state of the art library and learning resource facility as well as offering improved Academy of Sport facilities.

Professor Paul Ivey, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Innovation) and Chief Business Officer at LSBU said: “The Wilkinson Eyre Architects design for London South Bank University’s ‘Learning Hub’ ensures our facilities, learning spaces, and technology remain fit for the future. I am delighted to welcome Willmott Dixon Interiors as our construction partners in this important venture. All three organisations are working towards creating a campus that has the capacity and facilities needed to serve students, staff and the wider community. This is a confident statement of intent from the LSBU group to build an educational presence in South London for the community of students, staff and other stakeholders recognising that modern, technologically driven, applied education connected to employers, is key to the future of so many.”

Project News SOLAR & MAINS POWERED

BELISHA AND REFUGE BEACONS Purpose built Column or Post Top Mount - Solar Power

“I am delighted to welcome Willmott Dixon Interiors as our construction partners in this important venture.

All three organisations are working towards creating a campus that has the capacity and facilities needed to serve students, staff and the wider community. This is a confident statement of intent from the LSBU group to build an educational presence in South London for the community of students, staff and other stakeholders recognising that modern, technologically driven, applied education connected to employers, is key to the future of so many.”

This latest project adds to Willmott Dixon Interiors’ growing London presence. Recently the company refurbished the grade two listed Dagenham Civic Centre to become Coventry University’s new London Campus. It was also behind the creation of a new HQ for the Design Museum at the iconic former Commonwealth Institute building in Kensington and the refurbishment of Old Admiralty Building which overlooks Horse Guards Parade for HM Government. Current projects include a complex refurbishment at The National Gallery in Trafalgar Square. In total, Willmott Dixon Interiors has delivered projects with a total floor space of 2,000,000 square foot in London over the last five years.

Standard Zebra or illuminated Column - Mains Power 8w LED Beacons and option of 4w LED Crossing Spotlight (mains) Courtesy Shields & Panels, Arm Brackets, Extensions and accessories Made by us, in our Somerset factory giving you super-fast lead times and excellent quality Fully Highways, EMC and CE compliant

FEEDER PILLARS Galvanised, Stainless Steel or GRP

The company has also recently completed a refurbishment of 87,000 square foot in Highbury Grove in Islington to create a new facility for the London Screen Academy. The college enables 16-18 year olds to learn about film production techniques such as behind-the-camera roles, costume design, production management, film distribution and marketing as they work towards a career in the industry.

Pre-wired or shell only

As the LSBU project is within a live campus environment, Willmott Dixon Interiors will be utilising its considerable experience of working within occupied space, having previously delivered projects in confined spaces for both Imperial College London and City University.

Super-fast lead times

Graham Shaw, Managing Director of Willmott Dixon Interiors, said: “We are really pleased to be working with LSBU to help it transform the London Road Building and realise its modern campus vision. The new facilities will support both staff and students with learning facilities fit for the future.”

Standard ex-stock or Bespoke High quality build – made by us, on site Excellent, friendly service Quality, finished products Great range of styles & sizes

We also make Electrically Insulated Digging Tools and Brackets for Highways, Lighting & Signs.

T: +44 (0) 333 666 2122 E: info@fisherandcompany.co.uk W: www.fisherandcompany.co.uk

Made in the UK Fisher & Company™ 1 – 4 Cary Court, Somerton Business Park, Somerton, TA11 6SB, England

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VISIT OUR WEBSITE AND GIVE US A CALL!

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Lighting & Electrical 2020 Trend Report

By Ian Cameron, Creative Director of Cameron Design House

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ith the arrival of the New Year around the corner, bespoke, sculptural lighting experts, Cameron Design House look ahead to the biggest trends in lighting for 2020.

From dynamic configurations, hand-blown glass pendants, organic forms, vibrant blue and differing brass finishes, each design from Cameron Design House reveals inspirations from Founder Ian Cameronâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shared history between his hometown of Finland and current residence in the United Kingdom. Renowned for creating bespoke chandeliers that effortlessly cascade from the ceiling, the grand and illuminating works of art are designed to inspire within any setting.

Dynamic Configurations With an enduring desire to achieve individuality, dynamic configurations are set to grow in popularity. With increased resistance to conform to the norm, Cameron Design House is able to provide clients with truly bespoke pieces, resulting in no two pieces being alike.

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Hand-Blown Glass The trend for uniqueness is set to thrive in the year ahead as homeowners and designers seek to shock. From hand-blown glass with contrasting materials, to bold eye-catching accessories itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about being distinctive.

Elevating simple forms into sculptural pieces, hand-blown glass makes up the core structure of the impressive Helmi and Kuulus chandeliers.

Their bubble-like appearance, with a deep

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warming glow creates impact upon entry, for a truly awe-inspiring, show-shopping piece.

Organic Form Organic forms in nature continue to grow in popularity for 2020. Exploration of the natural world, combined with innovation in design encourages the development of abstract shapes and simplified forms. From the continuous linear style of the Inari chandelier created from the organic exploration of light fluidity, to the delicate pollen inspired frame of the Kasvaa pendant light, nature continues to influence design with increasing technological advancements.

Classic Blue The trend for Classic Blue replaces Living Coral for 2020. A prominent shade in the home, this moody colour will be seen on walls, furnishings and stand-out items, providing the perfect hue for statement pieces to shine in. Bold and brilliant, the ever-popular Haara chandelier seen below is coated in this opulent shade.

Each piece from the collection is available in any choice of colour for a truly bespoke chandelier tailored to the individual.

Brass Variations Providing a modern take on metal, warmer tones of brushed and polished brass will start to come through more regularly. Elegant yet subtle, the high shine or matt finishes pair perfectly with natural materials including marble and wood, for a refined interior and complements a vast array of colour schemes for a modern aesthetic.

Ambient Spaces With the trend for spaces to relax and unwind in becoming more prominent in interiors, ambience is key with lighting playing a crucial role in helping to set the mood and surrounding atmosphere.

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Major transformation to create an ‘urban oasis’ at Manchester’s Lowry House A new urban oasis will be created at Manchester’s Lowry House as part of Bruntwood Works’ £50m Pioneer refurbishment programme.

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lans have been submitted to transform the city centre building, using biophilia throughout to bring nature into the heart of the space.

The refurbishment which is due to begin in early 2020, subject to planning approval, will increase the number of flexible workspace desks by more than a third, while an additional five meeting rooms will be added taking the total to 12.

Located on Marble Street, just off King Street, 16-storey Lowry House is set to have green spaces at its core, with external living walls made of hundreds of individual plants and a cascading interior garden taking centre stage.

Changes to the ground floor will include a new independent café; hotdesk and coworking areas; lounge space; private work and phone booths, while bleacher seating will be installed to create a new event space for up to 50.

“Lowry House is being transformed to offer the ultimate customer experience. We want to provide a truly uplifting workspace environment, one that enhances mental and physical wellbeing by bringing the outside in and offering a host of amenities to support a healthy work/life balance and boost creativity.”

and sustainability to biophilia, wellbeing, amenity and art.

Further stand-out features at Lowry House will include the basement being transformed with sleep pods, a quiet study area, cinema room, fitness studio complemented by existing shower and changing facilities, and space to host pop-up events.

But Lowry House will be green in more ways than one and, as with all Bruntwood Works’ buildings undergoing refurbishment, a smart building management system will be embedded into its redesign to monitor the building’s carbon footprint and consumption to help support energy efficiency.

Ciara Keeling, CEO of Bruntwood Works, said: “Lowry House is being transformed to offer the ultimate customer experience. We want to provide a truly uplifting workspace environment, one that enhances mental and physical wellbeing by bringing the outside in and offering a host of amenities to support a healthy work/life balance and boost creativity.

Reverse vending machines that offer rewards to encourage recycling are also being incorporated into the building layout. This will support Bruntwood’s recent pledge to the Green Building Council’s Net Zero Carbon Commitment to make new buildings net zero carbon emitting by 2030 and old buildings the same by 2050.

“The design concept itself is inspired by the city landscape of today and all of its inhabitants.

It has been developed to celebrate the energy, colour and vibrancy of working and living in Manchester.”

Ciara added: “Growing with our customers as they expand and develop is at the heart of what we do, and Lowry House’s transformation programme will allow us to offer high growth businesses a place to call home throughout their journey.

The project is part of Bruntwood Works’ Pioneer programme, a multi-million pound customer-focused building transformation scheme. It will reinvent a number of buildings owned by the inspirational workspace specialist across the North and Midlands including recently announced Blackfriars House and 111 Piccadilly, both in Manchester city centre.

Focused on providing innovative environments with ‘wow factor’, the programme centres on enhancing six key themes across its buildings, from technology

“Lowry House represents the latest evolution of our award-winning workspace approach and we look forward to pushing the boundaries further as we roll-out our Pioneer programme in the months to come.”

Bruntwood Works creates, owns and manages inspiring workspaces across the North and Midlands. As well as stand-out spaces, technology and amenities, it offers specialist business support and access to a unique network of over 55,000 Bruntwood customers.

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And, as a Pioneer building, Lowry House will be home to Bruntwood Works’ full mix of products, including meeting rooms, coworking spaces, serviced offices and larger private workspaces.

“The new shared spaces encourage a sense of community and facilitate collaborative working between like-minded businesses and individuals – something we’re extremely passionate about.

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Surface Design Show 2020 – The Best in Material Innovation Architects can discover the best in material innovation from across the world, all in one place at this year’s Surface Design Show. Held at the Business Design Centre in Islington from 11-13 February 2020, the show now in its fifteenth year, will focus on the thought-provoking topic of ‘Close to Home’.

School is a key component of the show. Here leading manufacturers will demonstrate the relationship between light and surfaces, as well as showcasing the latest architectural lighting products. Light Talks, a series of sessions supported by the Institution of Lighting Professionals and collated

by Rebecca Weir from Lightbout.IQ will underpin this knowledge sharing.

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s well as over 180 exhibitors, visitors can also enjoy a packed programme of talks and CPDs, plus the ever-popular Opening Night Debate and the lively PechaKucha evening, which will be hosted by Phil Coffey of Coffey Architects. The winners of the prestigious Surface Design Awards will also be revealed during the 2 ½ days, with the additional categories of public realm and affordable housing new for 2020.

The ‘Close to Home’ theme will look beyond aesthetics and into manufacturers’ impact on the environment, from the processes used in mining or manufacture, through to the carbon footprint sustained during sales and distribution. How to specify for design and architecture projects with a conscience will also be examined, from reusing waste materials to looking at what happens at the end of a product’s life cycle.

New exhibitors to the 2020 Surface Design Show include Wonderwall Studios, creator of joyous panelling from salvaged woods that enriches surfaces and enhances interiors, and Mortise Concrete, producer of individually designed and hand crafted

Surface Design Show 2020 will host approximately 30 presentations from 50 speakers across the purpose-built stages, all highly relevant for the architecture community.

The Surface Design Awards, now in their sixth year, are an intrinsic part of the show, with this year’s edition attracting 107 entries from over 21 countries.

polished concrete countertops and products.

Returning exhibitors include Reading based natural stone supplier Amarestone.

As well as established brands, Surface Design Show is dedicated to promoting up-and-coming designers in the materials sector with its New Talent section, curated by internationally acclaimed speaker and forward-thinking chief creative director at Trendease International Jennifer Castoldi.

In addition to materials for indoor and outdoor architectural applications, Light

The Surface Design Awards, now in their sixth year, are an intrinsic part of the show, with this year’s edition attracting 107 entries from over 21 countries. The esteemed judging panel is co-chaired by Paul Priestman, designer, co-founder and chairman of global design consultancy PriestmanGoode, and Amin Taha, chairman of Groupwork and director of Amin Taha Architects. The remaining judges are Nikki Barton, head of digital design at British Airways; Sean Griffiths, an artist, architect and academic practicing at Modern Architect; Charles Holland, principal at Charles Holland Architects; Glenn Johnson, director of design at the Advanced Design Group of Collins Aerospace; Daniel Mota Veiga, global head of product design for KEF / GP Acoustics; and Steve Webb, co-founder of Webb Yates Engineers.

For all things innovative in surfaces and materials, the Surface Design Show provides the perfect platform for architects to explore.

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Tickets are free to professional and trade visitors. Register at www.surfacedesignshow.com/register

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BRINGING SURFACES TO LIFE EXPLORE THE UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LEADING DESIGN SHOWCASE WWW.SURFACEDESIGNSHOW.COM

RESTORING GUNNERSBURY PARK TO ITS FORMER BEAUTY Located in West London, Gunnersbury Park is home to a magnificent 19th century mansion, constructed using bricks and stucco to create an elegant and decorative finish.

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riginally home to the famed Rothschild family, the Grade II, listed building was beginning to look tired and unkempt. Lack of maintenance, vandalism and Britain’s freeze-thaw climate had, over time, put a lot of pressure on the exterior of the building, causing it to lose its original, aesthetic elegance.

Attempts were made to repair the façades using Portland cement over the 20th century. These proved to be only short-term solutions for the decaying mansion. It was in urgent need of a new, longerterm solution to restore its beautiful, traditional appearance by the time Lime Green became involved in November 2015.

The perfect Prompt

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In 2014, major renovations of Gunnersbury Park began.

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To successfully fix the failing façades, the building’s old render was analysed down to its microscopic structure using X-ray diffraction.

That process uncovered that Gunnersbury Park was originally built using Roman cement.

Parker’s Roman cement was discovered in the late 18th century in England and allowed craftsmen to build out, thick layers of stucco, moulded into ornate shapes. Roman cement was fashionable

Elegant, charming and beautifully crafted Gunnersbury Park has now been restored to its original splendour.

during the 18th century due to its highquality appearance.

There has been a recent resurgence of interest in Roman and natural cements due mainly to the need for repair of façades finished in this material in the 19th century.

Working closely with the architect, Stafford Holmes, The Lime Centre and AVV Solutions, Lime Green worked meticulously to create a render with an almost identical match – both physically and chemically - to the original, Roman cement render.

“Due to our successful working relationship with Lime Green on previous projects, we were keen to work with them on Gunnersbury Park,” says Ray Wills, chief executive officer at AVV Solutions.

With experience in restoring important historic buildings, Lime Green is dedicated to ensuring that every build withstands the test of time and Gunnersbury Park was an ideal candidate.

mixture has low shrinkage and high breathability with a beautiful, natural colour which assumes a creamy texture and sits comfortably under trowel.

Prompt, notorious for its fast setting is extremely difficult to mix accurately in large volumes. On-site production would not have been practical in the tight timeframe. In order to guarantee the consistency of the blend, Lime Green manufactured the mix to its precise recipe (+/- 1g per tonne) in its Much Wenlock factory.

All the Roman Stucco is sampled and tested before it goes to site.

“It’s so wonderful to see Gunnersbury Park restored to its full glory,” says Simon Ayres, managing director and cofounder of Lime Green. “It should stay looking this good for as many, if not more, years as the original mix which stood strong since the 1830s”.

After opening as a museum in 1929, the mansion now showcases local history, archaeology, costume and fine art. Elegant, charming and beautifully crafted, this mansion come museum is the perfect place to watch the seasons change and to discover the fascinating history of the great building.

“It’s so wonderful to see Gunnersbury Park restored to its full glory,” says Simon Ayres, managing director and co-founder of Lime Green. “It should stay looking this good for as many, if not more, years as the original mix which stood strong since the 1830s.

“The task presented numerous challenges but creating innovative, practical and most importantly, sustainable solutions is at the heart what we do.”

Repairing the original, like-for-like, is not only good conservation practice but it also ensures compatibility between the old and new. The work has safeguarded the sustainability for the future of this important, historical building and has revived this majestic, West London attraction.

“We knew Lime Green could fulfil the requirement to maintain as close a match as possible to the original materials and the existing areas that did not require restoring,” says Ray Wills.

The exacting, matching process was achieved by obtaining model specifications from various points of the building and analysing different mortar samples. Several cement samples were then produced and trialled onsite to determine the best recipe for the mix.

The final product, Lime Green’s Roman Stucco, is made using Prompt, a mix of graded sands, a small amount of lime and natural additives, including set retarders. The

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Samples were then manufactured and tested for the architect’s approval before render trials were carried out.

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SIKALASTIC RAPID PROVIDES TOP CLASS SOLUTION FOR RIBA LEARNING CENTRE To help drive public engagement and education about the built environment, RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) has repurposed an area of its Grade II listed London headquarters as the Clore Learning Centre.

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he organisation has received a grant from the Clore Duffield Foundation to help fund the initiative but leading manufacturers, including Sika, have helped too, by providing materials to refurbish the area designated for the project.

Meeting the Brief Sika’s involvement with RIBA’s Clore Learning Centre development concerns the outdoor terrace and learning environment. The existing terrace area was out of regular use prior to the Clore Learning Centre project and the existing waterproofing covering had reached the end of its service life.

The Sika team carried out a condition survey of the terrace area to inform a full technical specification. This had to take account of the Grade II Listed status of the building, the requirement for a safe outdoor space for learners of all ages and the need to complete the project within a mission critical deadline.

Technical Challenges Sika’s Sikalastic Rapid provided the ideal solution for waterproofing the terrace.

Specifically designed for waterproofing of trafficable roofs, terraces and walkways, the cold-applied liquid system cures in 30-40 minutes, even at lower temperatures, and can be accelerated for an even faster cure.

The Sikalastic Rapid membrane was specified as part of a complete terrace refurbishment

The Sika team carried out a condition survey of the terrace area to inform a full technical specification.

system, bringing together Sika’s refurbishment and waterproofing expertise from the company’s wide-ranging basement to roof portfolio. The complete solution considered the features of the existing building, safety for users and service life of the finished project.

The specification also had to address significant technical challenges. Sika Roofing Field Technician, Darren Adams, explains: “Application of the Sikalastic Rapid system to the entire terrace was a requirement of the guarantee but some aspects of the design and legacy building made this difficult.

“Our response was to include Sikalastic Rapid Filler Compound in the specification. This flexible filler enabled a smooth surface to be created for installation of the Sikalastic Rapid, so that details including the threshold onto the terrace and the fixings for perimeter benches could be encapsulated.”

Rapid Installation Sika’s Quality Assured (QA) Roofing contractor, London Seamless Flat Roofing, was appointed to deliver the terrace refurbishment project.

Following preparation and application of the primer, the rapid-curing Sikalastic Rapid system was installed in a wet-on-wet process.

Sikalastic Rapid Levelling Mortar was then applied onto the cured membrane and quartz aggregate was broadcast across the surface while the levelling mortar was still tacky to provide a hard-wearing and anti-slip trafficable surface.

Part of the brief from RIBA has been to colour match the newly refurbished terrace with the yellow tones of the original Grade II listed building and this was achieved with a pigmented Sikalastic Rapid Sealer in a custom-specified RAL 1001 mustard colour.

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Successful Completion

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The fast curing Sikalastic Rapid system enabled installation of the project within just 2 weeks, causing minimal disruption to the building’s occupants and allowing full use of the Clore Learning Centre’s internal spaces.

Web: www.gbr.liquidplastics.sika.com

Roofing & Cladding NORTH EAST FIRMS JOIN FORCES TO DEVELOP PIONEERING FRAMED MESH SYSTEM

BTS Design Director David Precious, Non-executive Director Gary Lumby, Company Secretary Marcia Atkinson and Managing Director Phil Atkinson with The Expanded Metal Company Managing Director Philip Astley

Two manufacturers from the North East have joined forces to create an innovative new product which can protect buildings and update their look through its pioneering design and simple installation.

Newton Aycliffe-based BTS Facades and Fabrications and The Expanded Metal Company which is based in Hartlepool have collaborated on a joint project which sees the launch of a new expanded mesh frame system for architectural decoration, and the first of its kind in the UK. Both companies create products which complement each other, with BTS Facades and Fabrications manufacturing façade and rainscreen systems under the Vantage® brand and The Expanded Metal Company producing a wide range of expanded metal meshes for building cladding and use in the creation of architectural features.

The Expanded Metal Company recognised a gap in the market for the installation of its expanded metal mesh material but could not source a fixing system in the UK, only in Europe, which is where BTS came in.

The finished product is part of the Vantage® EM range - a protective mesh bracket and rail system affixed to buildings to create a pleasing aesthetic. With framed and non-framed versions available, the completed look is entirely the creation of the client’s imagination.

Displaying its striking visual effect, the Vantage® EM F (framed) range can be used in a variety of architectural façade applications, including shrouding areas such as fire escapes, mezzanines and balconies, while the Vantage® EM SA (site assembled) nonframed range has wider commercial applications such as car parks and open structures.

It was the passion for the North East and partnering with local firms that initiated the project as well as the need for the new design which steered the team forward.

Already a customer of Expanded Metal Company, managing director of BTS Phil Atkinson was more than happy to join forces. He said: “We have used The Expanded Metal Company’s products for a number of years so were thrilled when Philip approached us to work together.

“We see the mesh framed system in comparison to a diamond ring, with the mesh as the ‘diamond’ and the framed fixing system as the setting, and together they are a perfect match.

“As the product is so unique, we currently have a patent pending to protect the design and manufacture of the Vantage® EMF. “This is a very exciting time for both companies and after the hard work from our great design and manufacturing team over the last 18 months, we are now looking forward to our product entering the market.”

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Phil Atkinson added: “The rainscreen is unique as the colours, finish and patterns of the mesh can be changed to alter the visual appeal, so it is perfect for refurbishments or modern building looking for a façade that can be altered quickly and easily. With our strong market knowledge and as a trusted brand, the range will create a supply chain for contractors, who previously had to travel to Europe for a similar type of product.”

Philip Astley, managing director of The Expanded Metal Company, commented: “We have a long history of supplying expanded metal mesh products for use in the architectural and construction sectors and this partnership combines our extensive industry expertise and manufacturing capabilities with BTS Facades and Fabrications’ innovative approach and specialist knowledge.

“We’re greatly looking forward to seeing the Vantage® EM F and EM SA range applied in future building projects and are delighted to be working hand in hand with another pioneering North East company.” www.btsfabrications.co.uk www.expandedmetalcompany.co.uk 05/12/2019 11:11:31

SIKA SARNAFIL EXPLOSIVE SUCCESS FOR ROYAL GUNPOWDER MILLS HERITAGE ROOF REFURBISHMENT A historic and archaeological treasure, the Royal Gunpowder Mills heritage site in Waltham Abbey, Essex, has been given a new lease of life with a stunning and sympathetic roof refurbishment.

Consisting of listed buildings, ancient monuments and natural aspect features, the site is a well-loved attraction. A busy hub of activity, it attracts thousands of visitors every year, with exhibitions and a programme of hands-on activities for school groups.

With previous roof coverings across the site’s buildings close to derelict, a new roofing system was needed that would both guarantee a durable solution and fit with the aesthetic of the heritage buildings. To meet those needs, Sika Sarnafil G410-15EL FSA Lead Grey was specified alongside Sarnavap 1000E air and vapour control layer.

The high-quality roofing system was chosen after the project’s main contractors Courtenay Builders Limited were impressed with the results from similar Sika Sarnafil projects. They also entrusted Contour Roofing with the specification and installation after seeing its award-winning track record with Sika Sarnafil.

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Further challenges were met due to the 45-degree pitch of the roof. Roof ladders had to be used to allow workers access to the complex angles and achieve a seamless finish, using Sarnafil membrane and bespoke Sarnametal flashings at abutments, changes of angle and ridge angles.

Although time consuming work that required the utmost skill to ensure the roofs were completed to the highest standards, the project was kept on track. With Contour’s contract manager making daily site visits, coupled with regular site visits from Sika Sarnafil Technicians, the project finished a week early.

Jonathan Woods, managing director at Contour Roofing, says: “This was a particularly interesting roof refurbishment with unique and complex challenges due to the nature of the site. However, by ensuring we had the right team in place with relevant experience, and the added support from Sika, we were able to complete the installation a week early while still providing an excellent finish that wowed the client.”

Work in progress on the pitched roof.

Securing a 20-year Sarnafil guarantee, the newly refurbished roofs have not only met the client’s need for a stunning aesthetic, but have also provided a durable weatherproof roofing system – upholding the heritage charity’s mission to conserve the site for the benefit of the general public.

Website: www.gbr.sarnafil.sika.com 25/11/2019 13:59:25

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As a site once home to tonnes of explosives and with visitors in throughout the refurbishment, the project proved challenging, requiring extensive attention to health and safety. A strict ban on naked flames and hot works meant that the plywood boards had to be primed immediately after installation and before exposure to any wet weather. The specification therefore considered this and the original system, which would have needed a completely dry substrate, was switched to a loose laid polyethylene air and vapour control layer that was more equipped for a faster installation in the expected conditions.

The Royal Gunpowder Mills heritage site had Sika Sarnafil products installed to guarantee a stunning aesthetic and durable roofing solution.

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2019 has been an exciting year for Sahtas. With a rapidly growing market share in the handmade plain clay roof tile sector and a growing network of stockists across the UK, the company has invested heavily in a programme of growth which will see an expansion of its operations at its Northampton base to support its brand new, state-of-the-art factory.

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ahtas was established in 1979 and remains an independent, family owned and managed company in the year of its 40th anniversary. Its production processes are unique in the heavy clay and terracotta industry with its raw, excavated clay undergoing ‘clay washing’ before being introduced into its multiple production lines. Clay washing mixes the raw clay with water into a slurry before being sieved to remove coarse particles then forced at high pressure into ‘filter cake’, a malleable soft clay, prior to production. This process removes the coarse particles and deleterious soluble salts present in the clay leaving a pure, finegrained raw material which, after drying and firing, produces an extremely durable finished product.

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Sahtas has distribution agents in the USA, Russia, Europe and Australia but its largest market is the UK where it is predominantly known for its Brookhurst range of hand-made plain tiles.

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The new factory gives Sahtas a fantastic opportunity to significantly increase the output of its traditional hand-made roof tiles and bricks but also to introduce new products to the market including the Southdown handcrafted plain tile and a new clay pantile, both of which will be available early in 2020.

The Southdown and the clay pantile are the latest editions to Sahtas core range of the highest quality roof tiles, but the growth

of new products doesn’t stop there. Sahtas will also continue to offer its range of genuine hand-thrown clay bricks in a range of single colours and blends and these will be available from stock or on a short lead time direct from the factory.

In 2020 the company will launch a new and exciting range of hand made glazed ceramic wall tiles, terracotta floor tiles and brick slips under the new brand name ARTterra.

These products have been sold around the world for many years but are new to the UK market.

Sahtas also has a team of talented artisans working within its busy Bespoke Products Department to produce unique, handcarved and beautifully detailed clay sculptures as well as replicating products long out of production. The company works closely with architectural and archaeological specialists on ancient and historical preservation projects around the world and is always happy to take on new commissions. The company is currently engaged at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ephesus in Turkey where it is supplying specialised reproduction bricks and tiles to enable sympathetic restoration of the historic site.

As Sahtas operates internationally we also take our global responsibilities very seriously and have recently obtained the highly valued Sedex Certification after a rigorous auditing of our business practices. Sedex members are committed to operating within a responsible supply chain and adhering to ethical trading standards including labour rights, health & safety, the care of the environment and sound business ethics.

We are proud of our memberships of these respected organisations.”

There is clearly a lot happening within Sahtas – a company with its sights focussed on a bright future and with strong core values of quality and customer service.

The Northampton team looks forward to being of service to customers old and new and welcomes enquiries via telephone 01604 434909, email sahtas@sahtas.com or through the website www.sahtas.co.uk.

Alternatively drop in and say hello – you will be most welcome.

Sahtas are very happy to send out boxed samples of all their roof tiles and bricks and they also offer free estimating and fixing specification services. All Sahtas products carry a 30 year guarantee against manufacturing defects.

UK Managing Director Steven Blewitt said “We are evolving as a company to meet the demands of the market, to match our own growth expectations and to ensure that Sahtas has a long-term future as the supplier of choice amongst specifiers, roofing contractors and our valued stockist partners across the UK. We are a dedicated and passionate team of people who genuinely believe that the customer comes first and that a high standard of service is a given.

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Of course, we also have to be technically proficient and compliant with current regulations and standards and we work with external bodies to ensure that this is the case.

We are represented at regional committee level within the National Federation of Roofing Contractors and are Technology Partners of Lucideon, the internationally recognised leader in clay technology and materials testing.

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Shackerley’s SureClad® System Helps Burnley FC Score Its Accessibility Goals Premier League football club, Burnley FC, has been playing home matches at Turf Moor since 1883.

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he club has recently invested in a major improvement programme to create wheelchair accessible stands. Designed

by Architects, Wilson Owens Owens, the project has involved infill extensions to the existing ground at the north east and south east corners.

The façades of the existing stadium are finished in the distinctive ‘claret and blue’ colours of Burnley FC. Conversely, the design for the new elevations saw the club opt for a high-end and timeless natural black finish, using Shackerley’s SureClad® Ceramic Granite ventilated façade system.

Derek Wilson from Wilson Owens Owens comments: “The accessible stands project provided an opportunity to upgrade the stadium visually, as well as updating the facilities and increasing capacity at the ground.

“By opting for Shackerley’s SureClad® system in natural black we have been able to create contrast with the claret and blue colour palette of the existing façade, while ensuring that the new additions create a sense of drama and quality. And because Shackerley’s Ceramic Granite is impervious, it will not discolour over time due to weathering or pollution and is resistant to UV light, graffiti and algae, so we can be confident the new extensions will continue to look great for years to come.”

Hybrid System Shackerley’s large format ceramic granite panels were specified for the new accessible stands at Burnley FC’s Turf Moor Stadium as part of a Kingspan Facades’ Karrier Panel system. This innovative external envelope solution brings together Kingspan’s high performance structural insulating panels

with the premium appearance and longevity of Shackerley’s fully-prefabricated ceramic granite cladding and the installation benefits of Shackerley’s Queen’s Award-winning SureClad® Access System.

project, explains: “Shackerley’s SureClad® Access System ensured that securing the panels was straightforward, even at the interface with the feature polycarbonate façade section and the interfaces with the existing building.”

The combined Kingspan and Shackerley system enables rapid installation and allows the cladding contractor to fast-track, making the building watertight with the installation of the structural panels prior to installation of the SureClad® façade. The completed hybrid system also delivers excellent airtightness and low U-values post installation.

Special Requirements There was a significant amount of technically-challenging detailing involved in producing the Shackerley panels.

Scheduling & Co-ordination The SureClad® Ceramic Granite panels were specified in a standard large format 1198 x 598mm size and installed in a vertical orientation.

Frank Smith from Aztec Roofing, the cladding installation contractor on the

“The abutments with the existing façade look to be at right angles,” explains Frank Smith, “but, in fact, they are a few millimetres from being true so the end panels had to be slightly tapered.

“The tapering requirement was between three and seven millimetres, so the tolerances were extremely precise but each of the tapered panels produced by Shackerley was an exact fit.”

The design for the façade also included etching the name ‘The Longside’ on the north east corner stand and this was achieved with 44 custom-fabricated panels.

Shackerley etched the required panels in-house, with each letter extending over two or more panels, and each of them was numbered to facilitate straight forward installation on site.

Vintage Season The new accessible stands have now been completed in time for 2019/20 fixtures at Turf Moor.

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Website: www.shackerley.com Phone: 01257 273114

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“Shackerley’s SureClad® Access System ensured that securing the panels was straightforward, even at the interface with the feature polycarbonate façade section and the interfaces with the existing building.”

KEMPER SYSTEM HELPS TO RESTORE HISTORIC EDWARDIAN MANSION

The roof of a Grade II Listed Edwardian country house has been repaired thanks to a liquid waterproofing solution from Kemper System.

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ocated on a 1,800-acre estate within the South Downs National Park on the Hampshire/Sussex border, Stansted House originally served as a hunting lodge in the 11th century. It has since been extensively redeveloped and is now used as a tourist attraction and for a variety of events, including weddings and corporate functions. It also offers residential and office space.

The 500 sq m roof had been laid with lead roll which were spread over three tiers and also used across nine dormer flat roofs. Over time, parts of the lead had become damaged due to age so were causing water ingress at several points.

The existing damaged lead substrate was cleaned and prepared, and the Kemperol was then applied over the top in a single, wet-on-wet process. This involved the use of an innovative polyester reinforcement fleece, designed to increase the speed of resin saturation and allow trapped air to escape quicker to save time on site and further improve the ease of application.

Once cured, the system formed a seamless, elastomeric waterproof membrane which bonded directly to the substrate.

Mike Baulu, director of All Angles Roofing, said: “Replacing lead with lead would have

“The system eliminated the need to remove, and dispose of, the existing lead - and as it is cold applied, it ensured the waterproofing process was very time efficient. This was particularly important to minimise disruption for the occupants of Stansted House and its visitors, enabling the building to remain open throughout the works.”

A further benefit of the Kemperol was its ‘grey’ colour which emulated the weathered appearance of the original lead substrate.

Victoria Ramwell from Kemper System added: “The Kemperol V210M has provided this historic building with a highly durable roof covering that cannot delaminate and is UV stable. Solvent free and tear resistant, the system is proven to last for at least 25 years.”

Email: enquiries@kempersystem.co.uk Website: www.kempersystem.co.uk

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“The Kemperol V210M has provided this historic building with a highly durable roof covering that cannot delaminate and is UV stable.

Solvent free and tear resistant, the system is proven to last for at least 25 years.”

To resolve these issues, roofing contractor, All Angles Roofing, specified Kemper System’s Kemperol V210M, a cold-applied liquid waterproofing system.

been expensive, so we advised the use of Kemperol V210M, which offered a very costeffective, reliable, and quick solution for this prestigious refurbishment project.

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WINTON CHAPEL, UNIVERSITY OF WINCHESTER The project was to renovate and extend the Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Victorian Chapel. Originally built in 1880, and then extended in 1927, the Chapel is used for a number of different events and purposes: services, group meetings, concerts and as a place of quiet contemplation.

The interior of the original gothic revival chapel has been returned to its former glory with renovation work to the walls and timber ceiling alongside the introduction of new oak and stone floors, heating and architectural lighting.

I

n 2015 the University commissioned Design Engine Architects to oversee a complete restoration of its internal and external fabric. In addition, the University asked for an extension to the chapel, to include a small side chapel and a social and meeting space. The brief was to create a very special project, to sit as a small â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;jewelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in the heart of the campus.

The interior of the original gothic revival chapel has been returned to its former glory with renovation work to the walls and timber ceiling alongside the introduction of new oak and stone floors, heating and architectural lighting. The university has chosen locally sourced Purbeck limestone, a material traditionally used for its decorative quality in churches and cathedrals across England, exploiting the natural characteristics of the embedded fossils within it.

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The original tiled frieze and angels on the Eastern wall has been restored behind the reinstated chancel steps.

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A new contemporary altar has been introduced, made from 7 horizontal sections of Purbeck stone. The seven sections make reference to number imagery within the Christian faith, as well as a celebration of the university’s anniversary; the stone sections also representing the seven 25 year time periods that make up the 175 years of the institution.

A new font has also been commissioned greeting visitors on entering from the South door. Designed to reflect light within the interior spaces, the font basin, made from highly polished stainless steel, is a section of a sphere, a reference to “light of the world”.

The basin is supported on a polished Purbeck limestone cylindrical plinth.

A number of bespoke oak furniture pieces were commissioned from and designed in collaboration with Luke Hughes, most notably the oak pews, lecturn, credenza storage units, bookcases and tables.

The obvious location for the extension was to the north of the main Chapel; despite the site constraints, the resulting design is an empathetic response to the gothic revival building where its connection, form and materiality seem both intuitive and exciting.

The obvious location for the extension was to the north of the main Chapel; despite the site constraints, the resulting design is an empathetic response to the gothic revival building where its connection, form and materiality seem both intuitive and exciting.

The design consists of a pitched roof structure that mirrors that of the existing building and allows light to penetrate into the perimeter exterior spaces. The ridge oversails the existing building eaves line creating a clerestory window that provides both light and ventilation at high level. The plan form creates a twist in the pitched roof bringing an intriguing geometric dynamic to the new addition.

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The form lent itself to a timber frame structure – a series of primary wall and roof trusses, each one different to create the changing form. Externally, the form is clad with perforated aluminium panels, anodized to give a highly reflective ‘gold’ finish, giving a dramatic textural surface to the building that is continuous over both roof and wall, allowing the building to be interpreted at different distances and scales. Design Engine developed a pattern referential to the existing architecture and an interpretation appropriate for the 21st century.

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A BRICK FINISH WITH I-CLAD AT THE HOXTON The Hoxton Hotel Group has recently opened a new mixed-use development comprising a 192-bed hotel with boutique style co-working office spaces above. The Hoxton, Southwark is a redevelopment of former social security offices, located on the western side of Blackfriars Road in London.

T

he Hoxton Group already have hotels in London, Europe and The USA and this latest London offering is designed with the same ethos in mind, to create vibrant spaces that are cosy, welcoming and a home away from home.

“Our team found the installation process of I-Clad simple and enjoyable and would use Eurobrick again on future projects”

Eurobrick has been leading the brick slip cladding sector for nearly 30 years and has extensive experience of supplying I-Clad for interior fit-outs in the hospitality and leisure sector.

They supplied around 1570m² of their I-Clad brick cladding system, which is specially designed for interiors.

Comprising a composite of a 12mm plasterboard panel with a ribbed skin bonded to it, fixings, adhesive, brick slips and mortar, I-Clad is an easy alternative to traditional masonry.

I-Clad’s slim profile means that a real brick finish can be created with less intrusion to the interior floor space.

St Ives Cream Rustica slips and corners from Eurobrick’s Classic range were used, complementing the loft style concept for the interior. St Ives Cream Rustica slips are a cut brick offering a blend of cream/grey hues with a tumbled, distressed finish. Eurobrick’s specially formulated Europoint mortar was chosen in white to finish. The end result is tactile, characterful and stylish, in keeping with the desired aesthetic.

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Macai-Limited installed I-Clad for the main contractor Kier. Peter StauntonLambert, quantity surveyor at Macai, said,

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“Our team found the installation process of I-Clad simple and enjoyable and would use Eurobrick again on future projects”.

For more information on I-Clad and Eurobrick’s other systems and products please visit www.eurobrick.co.uk.

1 CONTRACT, 10 YEARS OF COVER: TAKE CONTROL OF PROPERTY ACCESS WITH INTRATONEXTRA 2020 has just begun, but here at Intratone, we’re already offering exciting new possibilities in property access to our customers and partners. With our brand new IntratoneXtra contract, you can start the new decade in the right way, with an unprecedented 10-year warranty for our cutting-edge technology.

O

ffering everything from intercoms and keypads to digital noticeboards and key safes, we’re proud to support housing professionals with easy-to-use, secure access systems for their properties – whether it be for 100 tenants or 1,000. And with our new IntratoneXtra contract, you can ensure that you’re covered for years to come.

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered Ensure peace of mind with our new monthly package: IntratoneXtra combines our pioneering, wireless building access technology with a 10-year warranty period, so you can rest assured that your properties are both safe and accessible for an entire decade.

Plus, included for free with our new contract package is a smart digital noticeboard, allowing housing professionals to easily keep tenants up to date with maintenance schedules and the latest news. Sleek and modern, our digital noticeboards fit neatly into any communal area – both indoors and outdoors – and are easy-to-use, with messages uploaded by either phone or computer using our remote management system.

Next-generation property access solutions By combining this new contract with our pioneering technology, you can guarantee that your properties will benefit from

Sleek and modern, our digital noticeboards fit neatly into any communal area – both indoors and outdoors – and are easy-to-use, with messages uploaded by either phone or computer using our remote management system.

enhanced security, improved accessibility and lifetime-added-value for years to come.

All our products are wireless - which means no lengthy installations interrupting you or your residents – and require minimal maintenance. Plus, our holistic remote management system - which you can access from either your smartphone or desktop connects all our property access solutions together and ensures that you save both time and money from reduced site visits.

With Intratone, our comprehensive portfolio of solutions works seamlessly together to ensure that residents are guaranteed a safe, hassle-free property access experience.

Plus, not only are our solutions reliable and secure – they are also easy to use. Central to our innovative technology is smartphone-

controlled access, meaning residents can control access via their phones – plus we offer integrated video technology that allows residents to check visitors via an invisible, pinhole camera. Our DDA-compliant systems also come with braille backlit keypads and hearing loops for both the visually and hearing impaired.

Save time and money… for the next 10 years With IntratoneXtra, your property access needs are covered all the way up to 2030.

Take advantage of the very latest access control technology today, and rest assured that your refurbished and renovated properties remain safe, secure and accessible for the foreseeable future. Get in touch with us today to find out more on info@intratone.uk.com or 0208 037 9012.

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Safety & Security

Property Compliance is our business - before, during and after refurbishment or reconstruction.

ONE STOP SHOP FOR PROPERTY COMPLIANCE AND DUE DILIGENCE SOLUTIONS Asbestos Surveying & Inspections Asbestos Removal & Project Management Health & Safety Consultancy Property Condition Reports Fire Risk Assessments & Fire Safety Compartmentation Studies Disability & Equality Access Surveys Legionella Risk Assessments Compliance Software

Snickers Workwear New ALLroundWork Jackets and Gilets NEW Winter Jackets and Gilets – insulated and water-resistant.

These new ALLroundWork Jackets and Gilets are just what the name suggests – delivering a great all-round performance on site with a Ripstop water-resistant outer fabric and a coated inner fabric for extra durability.

They’re wind-resistant too and all have the features and functionality that you’d expect in Snickers Workwear clothing.

Designed for optimum comfort and flexibility when you’re on the move, they’re great-looking working clothes that will keep you feeling comfortable wherever you are and whatever you’re doing at work in cold and windy weather.

With smart designs and an ergonomic fit, Snickers Workwear ALLroundWork garments are packed with must-have features that focus on functionality and freedom of movement as well as using innovative fabrics that deliver long lasting protection. There’s also a range of Base- and Mid-layer garments plus accessories like gloves, hats, face warmers and beanies to ensure that every part of you stays dry and warm.

Getting information on the Snickers’ new stretch work trousers is easy. You can call the Snickers Helpline on 01484 854788, checkout the website and download a digital catalogue at www.snickersworkwear.co.uk or email info@snickersworkwear.co.uk

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Following extensive research and development, Prysmian Group, the world’s largest cable manufacturer, has launched its new Draka UC400 23 Category 6 U/UTP LSHF D65 B2ca data cable that is fully compliant with the Construction Products Regulation (CPR).

The new UK manufactured Draka cable has a genuine Euroclass B2ca s1a d1 a1 fire performance rating for full CPR compliance without compromising data transmission levels; it delivers full Category 6 / Class E compliant electrical performance. This has been a key challenge faced by manufacturers, including Prysmian, frequently resulting in compromise or failure of one of three aspects; Data transmission performance, installation usability (high density diameter & low weight) and fire safety rating. However, with CPR for cable products that are permanently installed in buildings in force, compromise is simply not an option.

CPR requires third party testing of cables with a Notified Body for heat-energy content, plus spread of fire, smoke, acidity, heat emission and droplet formation (burning drops of plastic that spread fire), to ensure they meet fire performance requirements laid out in the harmonised European standard for cables in construction works subject to reaction to fire requirements under the CPR (EN 50575)

For a no obligation quote contact us on 0151 363 2333

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Prysmian has therefore invested considerable resources in developing the new cable, with success achieved through a range of material engineering developments, optimisation of the cable construction design (including a fine balancing of the volume of air spaces within the cable) and fine tuning of the manufacturing processes. At the same time, the new cable remains compact, with a high degree of flexibility for easy installation, with Draka claiming there is no difference in handling performance to its existing high density Dca rated cables.

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RRNews - Issue 41

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EX-SUNNYSIDE HOSPITAL STAFF CUT TURF MARKING THE START OF WORK ON 35 NEW AFFORDABLE HOMES ON THE HISTORIC SITE Over 40 ex-nurses of the former Sunnyside Royal Hospital near Montrose visited the iconic site to tour the grounds one last time and cut the turf, marking Sunnyside’s new lease of life as a housing development.

D

uring their visit around the grounds of the estate, overlooked by the historic building which they once worked in to support a wide variety of mental health issues, the nurses recalled stories from their time there and found out more about the homes to come.

The psychiatric hospital was the first public asylum in Scotland and among the first in the English-speaking world. Sunnyside Royal Hospital’s most famous patients were Charles Altamont Doyle, father of Scottish author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who struggled with epilepsy, and iconic Shetland sculptor Adam Christie.

The nurses then cut the turf, marking the start of work on a £4.4m development of 35 affordable homes within the estate grounds.

The nurses were joined at the site by Hillcrest chief executive Angela Linton and Sunnyside Estate & Pert-Bruce director Jamie Pert.

The homes, developed by Sunnyside Estates – a partnership between Tayside construction firm Pert-Bruce and Edinburgh based developer FM Group on behalf of Hillcrest Homes, are set to be the first of two phases of affordable homes at the site.

Work on the first phase of homes is expected to be completed in summer 2021, with the second phase which will deliver an additional 59 homes set to begin work that same year. The 94 homes in total will be earmarked for social rent.

The first phase of homes will offer a range of property sizes of one, two and three bedrooms, and will provide good quality housing for a range of family needs.

“This project will also allow us to continue to support the Dundee & Angus Shared Apprentice Scheme - of which Pert-Bruce were one of the founding members. This scheme currently offers employment to around 44 trade apprentices in Dundee and Angus, all of which is vital to maintaining a vibrant construction industry and future skilled trades.”

With energy bills rising, the homes will also be developed with energy efficiency in mind. Some of the measures include gas central heating, advanced cladding and insulation and as well as smart meters in all of the homes.

Angela Linton, Hillcrest chief executive, said: “Sunnyside has a huge historical significance to the local area, and we’re delighted that the hospital building will be preserved for future generations as part of the wider development plans.

“As well as boosting Angus’ affordable housing provision, these 35 properties being developed for Hillcrest in the beautiful grounds of the estate will give families a modern, energy efficient place to call home.”

Jamie Pert, director at Pert-Bruce Construction and Sunnyside Estate added: “Sunnyside Estate Ltd are delighted to be working in collaboration with Hillcrest to build much needed affordable housing for the Montrose area. We were also very privileged to welcome this group of retired Sunnyside Hospital nurses who worked within this highly regarded psychiatric hospital.

“This project will provide an important boost for the local area, securing local jobs not just for Pert-Bruce but the local supply chain in Montrose and Angus, including 10 trades apprentices currently directly employed by us. This project will also allow us to continue to support the Dundee & Angus Shared Apprentice Scheme - of which Pert-Bruce were one of the founding members.

“This scheme currently offers employment to around 44 trade apprentices in Dundee and Angus, all of which is vital to maintaining a vibrant construction industry and future skilled trades.”

The original building was founded in 1781

by Susan Carnegie as Montrose Lunatic Asylum, Infirmary and Dispensary, and was located on Montrose Links, receiving a Royal Charter in 1810.

A new and improved asylum – the iconic building which still stands today near the village of Hillside was designed by William Lambie Moffat and completed in 1858.

Despite the addition of a new building called Carnegie House at Sunnyside in 1899, the hospital still experienced problems with overcrowding, housing 670 patients as of 1900. As a result, a further two buildings were added – Howden Villa in 1901 and North Esk Villa in 1904.

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The asylum passed into the ownership of the NHS in 1946, and changed its name from Royal Asylum of Montrose to Royal Mental Hospital of Montrose, before becoming Sunnyside Royal Hospital in 1962.

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Sunnyside Royal Hospital’s most famous patients were Charles Altamont Doyle, father of Scottish author Arthur Conan Doyle, who struggled with Alcoholism and epilepsy, and iconic Shetland sculptor Adam Christie.

After the introduction of Care in the Community in the early 1980s, the hospital went into a period of decline and closed in December 2011. It was bought from NHS Tayside in 2016 by Sunnyside Estates Ltd.

Stone & Stonework

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RRNews - Issue 41

LIMESTONE SANDSTONE BUILDING STONE FLOORING WALLING MASONRY LANDSCAPING RESTORATION

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Green Building, green construction, or sustainable building is not new; it’s the practice of designing, constructing, and operating buildings to minimize resource use, reduce waste and avoid negative environmental impacts.

For 25 years -and more -we’ve been designing, manufacturing and constructing ‘Green Buildings’ and components in a ‘Green way. Creating buildings that deliver a positive impact on our climate and natural environment. It’s in our DNA! Low Energy Buildings are what we are about. By helping reduce your energy consumption we help you reduce your energy bills, increase your property value and, if you’re a business, increases your pro.ts and marketing potential. If you’re a homeowner it gives you more free cash to spend on the other things you’d like in life.

Lifestyle Living is, therefore, one more box our buildings can tick for you.

It’s also one of our aims when working with you and your professional advisors. Understanding the way you live and operate, sharing your aspirations for ‘something better’ is part of what drives us.

Going Green is not a fad or a fashion. It is a way of life and an important reason for adopting an eco-friendly lifestyle, making conscious decisions about sustainability, reducing harm to our world and creating positive conditions for the environment to .ourish and thrive. Green buildings conserve precious natural resources and improve our quality of life.

Benfield ATT GREEN BUILDINGS

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“Helping Construction Professionals Use Off-Site Construction, Profitably” Traditional & Modern | Residential & Commercial | Education & Hospitality | Remodel & Newbuild | Components GREEN BUILDINGS, green construction, or sustainable building is not new; it’s the practice of designing, constructing, and operating buildings to minimize resource use, reduce waste and avoid negative environmental impacts.

For 50 years -and more -we’ve been designing, manufacturing and constructing ‘Green Buildings’ and components in a ‘Green’ way; creating timber buildings that deliver a positive impact on our climate and natural environment. It’s in our DNA! Low Energy Buildings are what we are about. By helping reduce your energy consumption our timber & SIP frames help you reduce your energy bills, increase your property values and, if you’re a business, increase your profits and marketing potential. If you’re a homeowner they give you more free cash to spend on the other things you’d like in life.

Lifestyle Living is, therefore, one more box our timber & SIP frames can tick for you and your clients. It’s also one of our aims when working with you and other professional advisors. Understanding the way you live and operate and sharing your aspirations for ‘something better’ is part of what drives us.

Going Green is not a fad or a fashion. It is a way of life and an important reason for adopting an eco-friendly lifestyle, making conscious decisions about sustainability, reducing harm to our world and creating positive conditions for the environment to nourish and thrive. Green buildings conserve precious natural resources and improve everyone’s quality of life.

GREEN BUILDINGS need really effective building envelopes, demanding careful, collaborative design from the outset of each and every project, Crucially, highly energy efficient structures with optimum levels of insulation, minimal thermal transmission and appropriate airtightness for floors, walls, roofs, windows and doors are required along with SMART construction and building operating solutions.

Value Engineering is at the heart of our approach to delivering some of the UK’s greenest, most innovative timber buildings. By focusing on the various ‘functions’ of a client’s building and its components, we strive to identify and remove unnecessary costs while maintaining even enhancing - its performance.

Hybrid Projects incorporating different timbers, systems and crafts are our speciality, with short run off-site batch production appropriately geared to individual development outputs, rather than long ‘me too’ assembly line ‘little boxes”.

Working closely with architects, designers, engineers and quantity surveyors, we help select and specify the most functionally appropriate and cost effective timber frames, other materials and off-site components.

Waste reduction, recycling and lean manufacture deliver high quality Green Buildings that save time and costs on site, enhancing our client’s projects and helping make Benfield ATT one of the most competitive full service timber engineering design and build firms in the UK.

Timber & Timber Frame PRACTICAL POINTS - STERLINGOSB ZERO STRONGFIX How does SterlingOSB Zero StrongFix compare to ply?

SterlingOSB Zero can be used for all the same structural applications that plywood can be used for, and as SterlingOSB Zero is made in the UK, the finished board is very competitively priced as it doesn’t have to travel here like plywood does.

New SterlingOSB Zero StrongFix is an OSB panel designed to be used in drylining applications. It is simple to fit, highly versatile and ideal for fixing cabinets, radiators, wash basins, railings and other heavy fixtures to stud walls. It is cut to size to fit within c-stud sections, has a pre-groove already cut and has zero knots meaning the strength of the board is maintained throughout.

What does a builder need to buy to go with it?

The product uses the same fixings as normal OSB – l-shaped steel frame, c-stud self-tapping dry-wall screws.

Can it be used with timber stud?

StrongFix can only be used with c-stud sections.

Is it a finished board?

As it will be fitted behind plasterboard, the panel is not finished as it will not be seen.

What widths does it come in?

StrongFix is available in 2400mm x 597mm.

Does it compare favourably to specialist plasterboards that carry/hold additional weight?

These types of plasterboard are not an equivalent product as they only hold up to 15kg whilst StrongFix can hold up to 400kg due to the inherent strength of the board thanks to the manufacturing process.

Has the board passed standards?

StrongFix is independently tested to BS5234-2; the criteria is on the product information sheet at http://norbord.co.uk/ products/sterlingosb/sterling-strongfix/ For further information, call 01786 812 921 or visit www.norbord.co.uk RRN120105 Norbord HP.indd 1

STERLINGOSB ZERO STRONGFIX IN DRY LINING APPLICATIONS What are the benefits of wood panels behind plasterboard dry lining?

Plasterboard in itself is not suitable for bearing weight so, if the wall is intended for holding weight over 15kg - such as TVs, sinks, cabinets, railings or similar - then a structural material such as wood panels should be used behind the plasterboard to hold the weight.

Why is OSB a better choice than plywood?

OSB is an engineered, wood-based panel made from flakes of wood mixed with a resin and then pressed. This method of manufacture means that the panel does not contain any defects of natural wood – such as the knots or voids that plywood would contain. This means that fixtures can be inserted anywhere on the panel without concern of hitting a weak spot.

Is there a dry-lining specific OSB? Yes. Norbord manufactures SterlingOSB Zero StrongFix which is a panel designed specifically for metal Cstud dry lining at 600mm centres. With a pre-cut groove the panel is ready for installation right away – saving time and costs not having to cut to size. SterlingOSB Zero StrongFix is made from OSB3 and is suitable for structural use in conditions where some moisture is present.

What are the benefits of SterlingOSB Zero?

SterlingOSB Zero is an OSB panel made with zero-added formaldehyde. This means that the board is smoother and more environmentally-friendly thanks to fewer emissions from the board.

For further information, call 01786 812 921 or visit www.norbord.co.uk 17/12/2019 12:02:09

IQL’S PAVILION TOPS OUT AFTER JUST 14 WEEKS OF SUPERSTRUCTURE WORKS International Quarter London has ‘topped out’ on the pavilion at the heart of the 22-acre development. The landmark building, designed by ACME, and made almost entirely from cross and glue laminated timber, has reached its highest point and taken shape at a rapid pace since the project broke ground in February earlier this year.

The frame began arriving on site during the summer, and took 14 weeks to be assembled, with every piece arriving ready to be slotted into place in an impressive show of organisation and efficiency.

Andrew Tobin, Project Director of IQL, Lendlease said: “We’re very proud to be able to bring this innovative building to Stratford, and of the part it will play in bringing our local communities within IQL and the wider area together. We’re also looking forward to announcing more details in due course regarding the dining experience that will be available within this remarkable space.”

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When complete, the 10,000 sq. ft. pavilion will house restaurants across the ground and first floors and a rooftop terrace and bar will provide views across Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park towards the London skyline.

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Latest News GRAND DESIGNS LIVE RETURNS TO EXCEL LONDON 2 – 10 MAY 2020 From the 2 – 10 May 2020, ExCeL will once again play host to Grand Designs Live; bringing the very best of home design, build and innovation to London for its 15th year.

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roudly sponsored by Anglian Home Improvements, the show will boast a range of new exhibitors and exciting debut features, along with popular favourites and established brands; with design guru and the presenter of Grand Design, Kevin McCloud hosting the event. Whether you’re looking to self-build, redecorating a room, installing a new kitchen or simply looking for ideas, Grand Designs Live is the must-visit event for everyone wanting to learn about the world of Custom & Self Build, renovations interiors and design for the home.

Visitor favourite Kevin’s Green Heroes will return for its 10th Anniversary, showcasing the most ground-breaking and eco-friendly products on the market, while the popular Ask An Expert area will return alongside a host of inspiring and informative seminars at The Grand Theatre offering visitors the opportunity to consult and hear from specialists across a range of home-improvement areas, from finance, to architecture, design and much more.

In association with The National Custom and Self Build Association (NaCSBA) Grand Designs Live will play host to National Custom & Self Build Week throughout the show, including specialised sessions covering all aspects of Custom and Self-Build in the Grand Theatre and across the exhibition.

Making its London debut, The Innovation Trail at Grand Designs Live will showcase the most ground-breaking brands that are changing the landscape and nature of home building and renovation; making it easier for visitors to find the most innovative products for all aspects for the home.

Including Build, Kitchens, Bathrooms, Gardens and Interiors, the show offers an exciting day out with hundreds of innovative ideas for the home, instructive talks, educational seminars and demonstrations.

Get access to amazing brands launching new products, compare prices and check out homewares not yet available on the high street.

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More ambitious financial incentives needed to upgrade homes A better offer for homeowners is needed if we are to reduce emissions from buildings by 2025, according to the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) in response to the Liberal Democrats manifesto published today.

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fan Glyn, FMB Senior Hub Director, said: “The Lib Dems’ pledge to cut VAT on home insulation is a step in the right direction and is an area that we have been lobbying on for a number of years through the Cut the VAT campaign.

However, I feel that it needs to go further and VAT should be cut on the labour element of home improvement work across the board. Doing so would simplify the VAT system and send a clear message that boosting jobs and consumer demand in this space is a priority. We know that homeowners are more likely to request energy efficiency upgrades as a bolt on to other building work being carried out on their homes. Cutting VAT across the board would therefore incentivise the decarbonisation of our homes further.”

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Glyn concluded: “On a positive note, I strongly welcome the Lib Dems’ pledge to enforce big businesses and government agencies to adhere to the prompt payment code. Smaller building firms are being held back by the abuse of retentions and late payment practices that are rife. Getting tough on serial offenders will help small businesses get back to doing what they do best, which is delivering quality work and training the next generation of builders.”

NEW CHIEF EXECUTIVE STARTS ON RESTORATION AND RENEWAL OF PALACE OF WESTMINSTER Sarah Johnson started work this week as the Chief Executive of the shadow Sponsor Body, the organisation to oversee the restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster.

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arah has spent the majority of her career working in senior roles in major infrastructure projects, including Crossrail and HS2.

The Palace of Westminster Restoration and Renewal Programme has been established to tackle the significant work that needs to be done to protect the heritage of the Palace of Westminster and ensure it can continue to serve as home to the UK Parliament in the 21st century and beyond.

In 2018 the shadow Sponsor Body was established, to set the scope, budget and timescale of the Restoration and Renewal Programme, and oversee a Delivery Authority with the technical expertise to commission and execute the work. Sarah Johnson will head up the executive team which, together with a Sponsor Board, will oversee the works.

Parliament this week passed The Parliamentary Buildings (Restoration and Renewal) Act 2019 which sets out in law how the work will be carried out under this two-tier governance system. The legislation provides for a six-month transition period, with the governing bodies being set up in the Spring of 2020.

The structure is similar to the 2012 London Olympics and other successful infrastructure projects.

Works due to begin on £5 million restoration of Grade II Listed building The Old Rectory in Clifton Village Works are due to begin on the restoration of the iconic Grade II Listed building The Old Rectory, in Clifton Village, Nottingham – with Midlands contractor G F Tomlinson at the helm of the anticipated construction project.

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he £5 million development, titled Rectory Gardens, will see the historic property saved from dilapidation and restored to its former glory – transforming the Georgian style building into four separate homes titled The Gatehouse, The Lodge, The Cottage and The Rectory, each with their own entrance and garden.

Within the grounds of the site there will be three new executive homes named Beech House, Cedar House and Oak House. Each will be accessed by a gated private drive, with garden-facing elevations.

Once the home of the Rector of Clifton, the building dates back to the mid-1700s with typical Georgian period features, including south facing elevated gardens, an original square stairwell complete with wooden cantilever stairs, and large purpose-built rooms.

Located in the heart of Clifton Village – a community of around 200 homes in the south of Nottingham – The Old Rectory takes residence within a picturesque part of the region, with a number of fellow historic buildings nearby.

“CBP have worked closely with Thomas Street, Conservation Officer for Nottingham City Planning, to ensure that the heritage assets which have survived years of dilapidation, are respected and restored as part of the finished design.“

This includes a green with a dovecote, the old schoolhouse, village hall, village church and Clifton Hall – the former aristocratic seat of the Clifton family and previous home to the education department of Nottingham Trent University.

lease of life to the iconic Georgian building in the heart of Clifton Village. We believe the luxury housing within Rectory Gardens will complement the historic surroundings, as well as welcome new residents to the sought-after area.

The £5 million project is due to complete in autumn 2020.

“All the development team at G F Tomlinson are looking forward to seeing the development progress and provide high quality homes befitting the surrounding area. The properties will be constructed with our usual high level of care and attention to detail, and we will be using the finest materials and latest specifications which will deliver a new housing scheme we can all be proud of.”

A ground breaking event was held on-site on Monday 18 November, to welcome residents to the development and demonstrate the positive work that is due to begin in their hometown. In attendance was the Lord Mayor of Nottingham Rosemary Healy and Lilian Greenwood MP for Nottingham South, as well as representatives from G F Tomlinson and Nottingham City Council.

Group Property Manager at G F Tomlinson, Siman Preston said: “We are excited to begin works at The Old Rectory and bring a new

Director of CBP Architects, Simon Birch said: “We are delighted to be working with G F Tomlinson to deliver this exciting project which will restore and renovate the Grade II listed former Rectory and adjoining buildings into high quality residential homes, with the benefit of a further three top quality residential properties to the rear of the grounds.

“CBP have worked closely with Thomas Street, Conservation Officer for Nottingham City Planning, to ensure that the heritage assets which have survived years of dilapidation, are respected and restored as part of the finished design. These highly desirable, top-quality homes will perform well for their new owners and will complement the Clifton Village rich architectural history.”

The Rectory Gardens project is being delivered alongside CBP Architects and Haart Estate Agents.

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Regional Sales Manager at Haart Estate Agents, Jamie Bodle commented: “Haart West Bridgford is delighted to be working in partnership with G F Tomlinson on such a historic project. The restoration of The Old Rectory will provide a boost to the local residents of Clifton Village and surrounding areas, and we anticipate interest to be very high in the conversion itself, as well as the executive new build homes within the grounds.”

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MODERN GLAZING BRINGS NEW LIFE TO VICTORIAN GATEHOUSE AS STUDENT HUB Students at Royal Holloway University of London will now find a brand new, architect-designed private accommodation and social hub located in Egham, Surrey.

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he privately-owned facility, called Hox Haus, is in an extended and remodelled Grade II-listed Victorian gymnasium located a short bus-ride away from Royal Holloway, University of London.

The project blends its original Victorian brickwork with two new glazed ‘light box’ additions which will provide students with light-filled spaces in which to work, socialise and relax.

Michael Metcalfe, national sales manager UK processing, at Pilkington United Kingdom Limited, part of the NSG Group, said: “There is a good body of research evidence building that suggests there is a strong relationship between natural light in working and studying spaces and the wellbeing of those using the space. It has been shown to promote better sleep, increased physical activity and increased

“We wanted to create a lightfilled and largely transparent overall space that brings the outside in, references the building’s semi-rural location and offers a warm, comfortable and relaxing homefrom-home for students”

productivity, all conducive to more effective study.”

In order to maximise the benefits that the glazing delivers to students using the facility, a structurally-glazed curtain-wall system from manufacturer Raico was selected for the project.

The system ensures that, externally, only a narrow silicone joint remains visible between each pane of glass, maximising sight-lines in and out of the building while minimising obstructions to natural light entering.

A clever approach to climate control The glass used throughout features the high-performance Pilkington Suncool™ 66/33 solar-control coating. This means that just 33 per cent of the sun’s energy can pass through, significantly reducing the heating effect on the interior, while 66 per cent of light is allowed in, maintaining excellent brightness and views.

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Further solar control is provided by the shading created by anodised metal fins that project from the glazed wall in key areas, a feature that also adds a distinctive contemporary aesthetic to the design.

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Michael Metcalfe continued: “In any building that has large areas of glass, there will always be a risk of excessive heat build-up, which can result in either an uncomfortable environment for occupants or high running costs and poor environmental performance if high levels of air-conditioning are used. Our solarcontrol coatings are engineered to minimise

Project:

Hox Haus Royal Holloway University of London

Architects and Interior Designers:

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Glazing Installer:

Vitrine Systems

this effect, making it easier to maintain an ideal temperature all year round without compromising on the advantages large areas of glazing bring to a building.”

David Holt, Founder of architects and designers 74 said: “We wanted to create a light-filled and largely transparent overall space that brings the outside in, references the building’s semi-rural location and offers a warm, comfortable and relaxing home-fromhome for students. The interior feel was to be like a country retreat or clubhouse-with-atwist.

“Fostering social interaction was at the heart of the design, and the glazed elements play a key role in that. We wanted all of the spaces, even those intended for individual study – to feel connected.”

Paul Williams, managing director at Vitrine Systems, said: “The combination of Pilkington solar-control glazing and the state-of-the-art Raico structural glazing units means students will get maximum benefit from working in a bright and airy space, whilst having beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

“The high quality off the materials also gives the building a ‘premium’ feel which will help fill students with a sense of pride in their surroundings and help attract the most talented individuals to apply to study at the college.”

Hox Haus opens its doors to students for the 2019-2020 academic year. It features ITequipped workspaces for individual or group study as well as a downtime space with TV and games lounges, tea points, vending machines and built-in bar points to allow pop-up catering for social events.

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