The Architectural Technologists Book, December 2021

THE ARCHITECTURAL TECHNOLOGISTS BOOK

DECEMBER 2021

WWW.AT-B.CO.UK

THE CONTENTS PAGE 004

THE DESIGNERS - Design news from around the world

012

NEWS - Latest news from the building industry

018

INTERIORS AND INTERIOR DESIGN - The latest trends

022

ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL - HVAC news

024

DOORS, WINDOWS AND GLAZING - A product and project insight

032

THE VIEWPOINT - All about opinions

036

THE GALLERY - A selection of stunning images and stories

046

PROJECT NEWS - The latest projects from the building industry

Front cover image courtesy of CUPA PIZARRAS - www.cupapizarras.com/uk story on page 42 Page 2 image courtesy of H2R DESIGN - www.h2rdesign.com

Some of the colour photography used in The Architectural Technologists Book is provided and paid for by contributors. The publishers do not accept liability for errors that may appear in the publication. This issue is dedicated to our dear friend and colleague, Mike - always one of us.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the publisher's consent.

Published by L2Media Ltd, Parkfield Business Centre, Park Street, Stafford ST17 4AL. Tel: 01785 223253 www.l2media.uk

design news

THE DESIGNERS

ANYTHING BUT PLAIN, H2R DESIGN DESIGNS A FRESH NEW HANDCRAFTED DESSERT CONCEPT IN CITY CENTRE MIRDIF 004 ATB

H

2R Design worked on the design and fit out of PLAIN, a new handcrafted dessert concept homegrown in the UAE. Located in City Centre Mirdif, the new unit in the mall was designed to create a space that celebrates the combination of highquality desserts in a tranquil ambience, within a unique and uplifting experience.

The Brief: - The aim was to create a clean yet attractive aesthetic that would complement PLAIN’s wide range of flavours and desserts, while still allowing the products to stand out. H2R Design was asked to develop the brand identity and interiors harmoniously, (a task that was carried out by the in-house branding and design team). The design studio translated the brief holistically, creating a neutral expression allowing all the creative and wonderful dessert offerings to appear as anything but plain.

The inspiration and mood of the concept can be defined as a monochromatic neutral space, with hints of soft colours and touches of warmth from timber furniture and panelling on some joinery items. The overall theme is tonal and understated yet fresh. H2R Design created a simple and sophisticated logo with clean typography paired with a playful personality that is evident through the pastel colour palette. This has become the brands main identifier and general tone of voice. Custom line illustrations were also introduced, giving the brand a harmonious balance between elegance and play. H2R Design studied the depths of PLAIN to design a space that truly reflected its identity. The research uncovered the concept's origins, stemming as a place to serve Japanese desserts. This automatically led to the design embracing a more minimal and tranquil approach. However, the concept had to be more unique than that, it needed an identity for itself. Researching the menu offerings, H2R Design incorporated tones that were inspired by the desserts.

4

For example, the toppings on top of the kakigori (a shaved ice dessert), added a splash of colour to the otherwise plain coloured sweet and the honey toast and pancakes having beige and off-white tones.

This led to a neutral on the outside, a surprise on the inside approach for PLAIN's whole design conceptualisation. There is alignment from the entrance all the way to the counter at the back, framing the entire space.

Tying in the branding with the interior was crucial and this is how H2R Design created the concept from paper to build.

Overall, straight simple lines are displayed throughout the space, where everything is there to be functional, while still maintaining a minimal beauty. Due to how minimal the space is, H2R Design had to pay attention to details, with how frameworks met, the datum lines of the mesh, and perfecting every single joint. H2R Design used neutral toned micro-topping in abundance in addition to stones in similar in colours. (cont...)

005 ATB

5

THE DESIGNERS

(cont...) Stainless steel is the dominant ingredient in the majority of the metals, which sit fresh against the warmth of oak timber design features. The brand's colours are on a mesh, allowing for the addition of stencilled branding icons, harmonising the branding with the interior. PLAIN's unique products, branding, and fresh neutral interiors identify the colourways, which are of neutral blues and beiges in the branding and the accent in the pink and tan in the furniture.

H2R Design integrated the warm pink and tan colour tones into the fabrics of the loose furniture. The blue from the branding covers the banquette seating, so diners can feel the connection to the interiors, fully embracing the brand's identity. The overall colour scheme emanates neutrality and minimalism.

The use of grey micro-toppings, stones, floor tiles and greys in the structure allowed for H2R Design to create a very lightly coloured space for the display of the food to burst and reveal its own personality. The micro-topping and textured paint were implemented to create a neutral but textured effect taking away from it being totally flat.

However, grey stones were used for the counter tops for durability and the with the tiles giving off a canvas like aesthetic. Oak timber has also been used throughout the space to ignite some warmth amongst the monochrome mood.

006 ATB

6

Stainless steel is the central metal element with blackened steel prominently displayed. The placement is crisp and sits beautifully up against the warmth of the timber framework. Mesh is a distinguishable feature throughout in the design.

007 ATB

There was the use of mesh to frame the space and to create a canvas to stencil the branding icons that represent the food offerings. The mesh also frames the key spaces such as the back counter. Stencils are done with paint directly onto the perforated mesh, bringing together the branding icons with the interiors. Shopfront icons represent the food offering.

The identity is minimalistic, but the icons add touches of playfulness. The decorative light fittings are modest and neutral in colour but also had to be tuned with the luxe levels from the mall's interiors. The ceiling lighting is flush clean, minimal, and practical, while decorative grey neutral Muuto light fittings hang above the perimeter tables.

H2R Design's detailed approach is also present in the tableware, crockery and utensils served to diners. From the plates, the sous plats, to serviettes, the cohesive neutral tones with soft touches of pink and blue, similar to the fabrics used creating the interior identity, are reinforced. A kitchen pass was developed to connect the back of house space to the front of house, next to the main counter.

Originally, the flooring design also featured micro-topping; however, for durability tiles were used instead. Minimal greenery with a wonderful story can be found on the shelving and tables. These décor pieces were purchased by a client from a charity supporting children with special needs. www.h2rdesign.com

7

THE DESIGNERS

ANTONIO CITTERIO PATRICIA VIEL UNVEILS RESTYLING OF ENEL'S HISTORIC HQ IN ROME nternational architecture and design firm Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel (ACPV) unveils the restyling of historic HQ of Italian multinational energy company ENEL, in Rome. The intervention by ACPV reimagines a building from the 1960s, rewriting it with completely different functional principles that realign it with the work needs of tomorrow - having corporate welfare, urban regeneration, innovation and sustainability at the heart of the project.

The redevelopment covers a total area of 80,000 sqm with a project designed to increase people's well-being through modern and comfortable workspaces, and enhance agile working. The lighting and air conditioning systems will guarantee the highest levels of comfort, while spaces will be distributed to increase people’s well-being through the alternation of work environments and indoor and outdoor green spaces. A gym will also be added to the existing facilities that include a kindergarten, dining areas, and an auditorium.

008 ATB

8

Working on the redevelopment of the historic Enel headquarters in Rome, ACPV's intervention brings to life a “building-city”, composed of towers that are harmonised by the newly found transparency of the building envelope. The glass of the new façade invites the eye to leap between architecture and the surrounding vegetation. The new headquarters will be built by applying innovative principles of bioclimatic, sustainable and biophilic design. A digital model (BIM) was used for the design, which collects and renders information and 3D representations of the project’s entire life cycle, allowing for a more efficient and sustainable management both of the construction site and the building. www.citterio-viel.com

009 ATB

9

THE DESIGNERS

RECORD-BREAKING DESIGN AND BUILD PROJECT IN THE UK

O

riginally built in the 80’s, One Portsoken Street is 233,000 sq ft of premium office space for a range of tenants; located on the edge of the City of London, the iconic brutalist building is connected to both London’s financial sector and creative industries.

The UK’s largest design and build project is recently completed and now ready for occupation.

Leading office design and build company, Oktra, have delivered the record-breaking project, redefining the boundaries of design and build by gutting the ninestorey building and filling what was once one of the largest atriums in Europe. The interior optimisation has led to a 20% increase in lettable space.

“We’ve fused the defining characteristics of design and build with comparatively traditional delivery and management processes in order to deliver the largest project in UK design and build history,” explains Craig

010 ATB

10

Smith, Oktra’s Chief Development Officer. “The result is a redefinition of what’s possible in design and build: One Portsoken is a ground-breaking project for Oktra and for the London design and build market. It’s a great thing to be involved in.”

The refurbishment includes restoration of One Portsoken’s original design elements in order to preserve the building’s history, with all modern finishes kept neutral in order to complement the design.

Standout elements include circular turrets, exposed concrete, terracotta floor tiles, exposed steel beams and sweeping London views from the top floor featuring the original atrium’s glass ceiling. One Portsoken Street is in the process of achieving a ‘Very Good’ rating from BREEAM, the world’s leading sustainability assessment method. 100% of site waste was diverted from landfill; 99.35% of waste was recycled, while the other 0.65% was incinerated to produce energy.

These recycling efforts reduced the project’s carbon emissions by 73%. The new One Portsoken features a lively public ground floor and landscaped open space. Floorplate sizes range from 10,000 to 30,000 sq ft and are designed to accommodate up to three separate tenants. The building features impressive ceiling heights ranging from 4-10 metres and improved destination control with nine new lifts and a striking lobby space with a two-and-a-half-storey atrium. www.oktra.co.uk

011 ATB

11

NEWS

SOLTECH SET FOR GROWTH AFTER ANNOUNCING MBO Soltech Systems Limited, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of blinds, curtains, control systems and associated window treatments, has announced the completion of its management buyout, backed by the Managing Director Guy Simmonds and Chairman Robert Wilson MBE. The MBO creates a platform for growth with a clear strategic direction for Soltech that will strengthen its position in existing markets whilst expanding into near-neighbour sectors.

Soltech offers a supply and installation service backed up by an expert team with decades of expertise in taking projects from inception through to delivery, and currently works with many of the UK’s leading design practices. www.soltech.uk.com

PUTTING EXPERTISE INTO BRICKS AND MORTARSIDERISE LAUNCHES MASONRY PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION PACKAGE Siderise has launched a suite of new passive fire protection products specifically engineered for masonry facades, making it easy for specifiers and developers to choose the right protection for their buildings. Designed to meet the specific construction challenges and requirements of brickwork facades, whether masonry or steel framed.

012 ATB

The new product range includes the Siderise External Wall (EW) and enhanced External Wall intumescent (EWi) systems, comprising both specialised cavity barriers and fire stops, in addition to the Siderise BB-CB Balcony Bracket Cavity Barrier. Each product has been subject to rigorous third-party testing to the relevant UK and European standards to ensure high performance and accurate product data.

It offers a range of market-leading passive fire protection systems for all kinds of facades, as well as architectural, HVAC, and interior acoustic insulation solutions. Each product area is supported by extensive testing, technical expertise, detailing and advice. www.siderise.com

MINGLE IN THE COVID AGE Post Covid digital technology can help us make better use of our high street. The monitoring of both footfall and traffic could help people avoid busy times. Cleverly placed and designed furniture would allow for more effective social distancing.

The 35 Collection is the next generation of outdoor furniture for the way we live, work, learn and play post Covid.

Mingle is an open and inviting seating system that brings everybody together.

The Mingle is a perfect solution to help introduce informal interaction and information sharing that builds relationships and culture in public spaces. Mingle takes an off-centre approach to attached tables and seating. The graceful continuity of its structural frame is open and inviting, imparts a sense of energy and flow, and makes it very easy to get in and out. www.bsfg.co.uk

TYDE LAUNCHES ITS BRAND NEW WEBSITE TYDE, a Thomas Dudley Business is proud to announce the launch of their brand-new website. Designed with the customer in mind; TYDE’s new website provides easy access to their vast range of plumbing fittings and spares. TYDE’s new website makes finding a product from one of their extensive product ranges as simple as 1-2-3.

One: use the handy search function to search by product code, description, brand or product name. Two: select the product you need from the quick access menu system. And Three: click on any product as you see them featured across the site.

If you need to access technical information such as specification sheets, instructions or install and maintenance videos then you will find the ‘How To’ and FAQ sections of new TYDE website a great resource. Visitors to the TYDE website will be able to create, send or download a quote request with the new Quote Builder function. If a visitor to the website needs help locating a TYDE stockist then they can simply enter their postcode and let the website do the rest. www.thomasdudley.co.uk/tyde

12

FLYING HIGH FOR 30TH ANNIVERSARY Up, up and away! Strand Hardware is celebrating its 30th anniversary as one of the UK’s leading suppliers of door and window hardware including finger protectors, emergency exit and panic hardware, window control systems and glass fittings.

Strand Hardware is now the sole UK distributor for leading European manufacturers including Athmer (finger protection) and Antipanic (panic hardware). It also manufacturers its own range, Duoflex - adjustable folding openers for timber, aluminium, steel and PVCu windows. In contract, the company also supplies its D-fine range, which is made entirely from 316 stainless steel for specialist installations. Its anti-corrosive properties mean they have been installed in wind farms, oil rigs and costal operations around the globe. info@strandhardware.co.uk

AKZONOBEL POWDER COATINGS BRING DEPTH TO 2022 COLOR OF THE YEAR Architects looking for a sophisticated take on AkzoNobel’s 2022 Color of the Year can benefit from Interpon’s Baku. Building on the light and airy shades of Bright Skies, which draws out themes such as expansion, open air and the great outdoors, Baku, which is part of the 2022-2025 Futura Collection, provides bold, neutral tones to bring the collection down to Earth. Extensive global trend research done by a team of AkzoNobel experts and international designers reveals that they’re reassessing what really matters and ready for a fresh approach to everything.

Conducted annually by AkzoNobel for nearly 20 years, the research generates valuable insights that are translated by paints and coatings experts into their respective segments. The Futura Collection has been the leading color range in the powder industry for decades, with a color palette which is updated every four years. For more information about the Color of the Year 2022, visit https://architectural.interpon.com/ and follow #CF22 on social media.

SIKA ANNOUNCES LAUNCH OF NEW ONLINE KNOWLEDGE CENTRE Global building product manufacturer, Sika, has launched an eLearning platform, the Knowledge Centre, allowing practicing architects and specifiers to expand their skills and keep up to date on the very latest developments, innovations and regulatory requirements relating to a wide range of construction materials, all available from an easy to navigate, intuitive online platform.

The Sika Knowledge Centre comprises a series of online learning modules and resources.

Users simply register on the Knowledge Centre platform and then have access to a series of different modules, relating to various products and sectors. Modules are categorised under different product groups to enable the user to personalise the experience to their areas of interest.

As modules are completed, the user’s profile is updated accordingly, providing a record of their ongoing learning. IModules available at the launch include among others: Total Corrosion Management, Fibre Reinforced Concrete, Fully Bonded Waterproofing Membranes, Pushing the Envelope – High Rise and Facades. Further modules will be added month by month, providing professionals with an invaluable learning resource that stays constantly up to date with a changing and evolving industry.

Visit https://gbr.knowledge.sika.com

NEW HYDRAULIC DESIGNSOFTWARE FOR HAURATON SURFACE DRAINAGE SYSTEMS HAURATON’s new web-based application ‘DesignSoftware’ provides construction industry professionals with quick, simple hydraulic analysis, channel sizing, project design and product specification for the company’s range of surface drainage systems (for landscape, commercial and civils projects) whilst working on their own desk-top computers, laptops and tablets. Immediate access for registration and use of this new hydraulic design software is achieved through the link: https://hydraulicdesign.hauraton.com. User-friendly and free-of-charge, HAURATON ‘DesignSoftware’ provides engineers with the flexibility to create their own drainage designs and project specifications, with just three clicks to a hydraulic calculation.

HAURATON has used their ‘in-house’ hydraulic design software to create project designs for over 30 years with total reliability. In addition to this new software application, HAURATON offers a comprehensive design service, which is also free of charge. www.hauraton.co.uk

13

013 ATB

NEWS

CONCRETE CHANNEL WITH BASALT FIBRES – NEW ERA BEGINS FOR HAURATON Hauraton makes concrete material even more efficient for modern drainage technology by enhancing the formulation with natural basalt fibres. The addition of mineral or textile fibres increases maximum stability, strength, and impact resistance. By amplifying the impact resistance, the more robust and durable the product. This is particularly important for components that are exposed to considerable dynamic stresses, in this case, drainage channels subject to vehicles at high speeds or regularly trafficked by heavy loads.

The basis of basalt rock is available all over the world in large quantities which is formed naturally on the earth’s surface. By combining basalt fibres with the well-known material concrete, both the structure and the service life of the product is increased. Since the end product is a purely mineral mixture, there is no need for material separation during disposal. This protects the environment as it is simply fully-recyclable at the end of the product's life cycle. Basalt fibres have outstanding properties. They can withstand temperatures of up to 800°C and are highly resistant to alkalis, acids, salts, oxidation and radiation.

Drainage systems made of basalt-reinforced concrete will assure longer performance. Basalt fibres are mineral fibres that have a higher melting temperature, better resistance to water, acids and alkalis, and more positive flexural strength. The energy consumption during production also clearly speaks in favour of basalt fibres, as basalt it has the lowest CO 2 footprint. www.hauraton.co.uk

014 ATB

SAY GOODBYE TO LEAKY WASTES WITH THE EPSON BASIN MATE! Epson, who are part of TYDE, are proud to announce the launch of their all-new Leak-Free basin waste seal kit called the Basin Mate. Installing basin wastes has never been so easy! All of Epson’s basin wastes now come complete with the LEAK-FREE basin mate seal kit. The Basin Mate Seal Kit is manufactured from high quality materials and includes a sealing ring, washer and seating – everything you need for a quick and easy installation.

The Basin Mate is also available on its own as a perfect solution for a leaking waste that is already in place. With the Epson Basin Mate there is no need for paint, putty or mastic! Epson have been manufacturing high quality sanitaryware spares since 1961 and are committed to supplying market leading products to the plumbing industry.

As a UK manufacturer they have complete control from design through to production and are always focused on offering the best customer service to their customers. The Epson range of wastes is comprehensive and offers the best choice when it comes to quality and style. EPSON is part of TYDE. A Thomas Dudley Business. www.thomasdudley.co.uk/tyde

14

WINCHESTER CITY COUNCIL GOES ABOVE AND BEYOND WITH ACCESSIBLE BATHROOMS AT THE NEW WINCHESTER SPORTS AND LEISURE PARK Winchester City Council has demonstrated its continued commitment to go above and beyond, in providing five highly specified Changing Places bathrooms in its recently opened Winchester Sports and Leisure Park.

Pressalit, the leading Scandinavian manufacturer of accessible bathroom solutions, was asked to specify a range of state-of-the-art products for each of the bathrooms that would suit both adults and children in a multiuser, public environment.

Working closely with LA Architects, Pressalit responded to the Council’s desire to provide enhanced facilities for members of the community with disabilities. For example, three of the five bathrooms benefit from the Pressalit electrically powered height

adjustable toilet, exceeding even the recommendations in the British Standard.

In addition to the toilet lifters, all five Changing Places facilities include Pressalit’s electrically powered height adjustable Matrix Medium wash basin, their award-winning height adjustable Shower Change Table 3000, as well as drop down hinged support arms and grab rails.

Cubicles in a number of other communal accessible changing areas also include Pressalit’s height adjustable shower seat, along with additional support arms and grab rails. The new centre includes an 8 lane 50m pool, 20 m teaching pool, multipurpose sports hall and climbing facility, squash courts and fitness suite. www.pressalit.com

015 ATB

15

INTERIORS

016 ATB

SCHOOL USES TIME WISELY TO PROTECT INTERIORS WITH YEOMAN SHIELD

C

ardinal Wiseman Catholic School based in Kingstanding, Birmingham, took advantage of a quieter time, with the majority of pupils home schooling, to undertake interior wall protection work with Yeoman Shield. Catering for 700 pupils aged 11- 16 the school has corridors and breakout areas throughout the school where walls and corners especially are exposed to marking and impact damage caused by the everyday movement of pupils, staff and equipment.

The damage not only detracts from the smart image the school strives to up hold in all areas, but also becomes a strain on the maintenance budget with constant requirements of repair and redecoration.

With the aim to reduce such damage and expenditure, after research and receiving samples, Head Teacher, Robert Swanwick, contacted Yeoman Shield to supply and carry out the installation of a complete wall protection system.

16

Vulnerable wall corners were protected with 75 x 75 mm corner protection in a matching colour and Yeoman Shield 110 mm White PVCu cover over a solid timber core skirting was added. This full Yeoman Shield wall protection system will abolish the future need for repainting walls and skirting with cleaning being the only maintenance required, reducing budgets spends.

The rigid PVCu material that Yeoman Shield products are manufactured from are easy to clean, do not promote the growth of bacteria or mould and are not affected by the use of commercial cleaners, assisting in the up keep of high hygiene standards.

017 ATB

Following strict Covid guidelines throughout the process, Yeoman Shield’s directly employed fixing operatives installed Yeoman Shield FalmouthEx Wall Protection Panels, (after boarding-out some of the brickwork to provide an even finish), at 1250 mm high to corridor and dining areas in a Dusty Grey colour to complement artwork decoration applied to the upper walls.

Staircase walls were also fitted with the wall protection panels with the addition of Yeoman Shield 50 mm Dia. Guardian Handrail in Timber with attractive Stainless Steel accessories.

Mr Swanwick commented “the quality of the product is exceptional. It has been installed for six months in some places and shows no signs of wear or tear yet. I also cannot speak highly enough of the professionalism of the installation teams, who understand the challenges of working in a school environment and get on with things quietly and efficiently. I am a very happy customer.”

For more information on how installing wall & door protection products can help save on building maintenance and help keep interiors looking smart and clean get in contact on 0113 279 5854, info@ yeomanshield.com or visit www.yeomanshield.com

17

INTERIORS

DRU POLO GAS STOVES BRING WARMTH AND COMFORT TO CORNISH HOTEL SUITES 018 ATB

DRU Fires, in partnership with leading Cornwall fireplace dealer Kernow Fires, has supplied five DRU Polo balanced flue gas stoves for the new beach lofts at one of Cornwall’s leading hotels. Watergate Bay Hotel on the north coast of Cornwall, originally designed to a be a railway terminus hotel, has been developed over the last 20 years into an inclusive year-round destination.

Its spectacular clifftop setting and location just a short hop from Cornwall Airport Newquay makes it a primary choice for travellers from all corners of the UK and beyond.

T he recent closure of Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen restaurant on the site paved the way for the £1.4 million development of the seven new beach lofts by contractors GSI and interior designers Dynargh Design, right above the beach. Described as ‘surf-in surf-out’ accommodation, the lofts have floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic sea views.

18

All have been designed to feel like modern city lofts, with warm textures and sustainable materials. High energy efficiency The DRU Polo gas stoves were chosen

by Dynargh Design for their contemporary design, fitting in with the overall design and aesthetic of the beach lofts. In addition, they were selected for their A energy rating, 92% efficiency and the convenience of gas with easy remote-control operation.

new approach to contemporary Cornish beach living.” Dynargh Design director Matt Hulme said: “The lofts have some of the most impressive outlooks of any hotel in Cornwall. But the interiors also needed to have enough appeal in the winter, when it’s dark at 5pm, that it feels warm, natural and enticing.”

They have all-year-round use and are suitable for chilly autumn days and cool summer evenings. Their balanced flue system offers flexibility of installation, as they require no chimney and only need proximity to an outside facing wall. This enables them to be installed in the living space, bedroom or bathroom subject to the design of each individual suite.

Sustainability was also an important factor in the design. “Getting active in the beautiful natural environment is at the heart of the Watergate Bay experience, and we’re committed to minimising the environmental impact of our design choices,” adds Will Ashworth. For further information visit: drufire.com, kernowfires.co.uk & watergatebay.co.uk

019 ATB

The beach lofts were completed in time for Cornwall’s peak 2021 tourist season, which has been hugely successful due to many more people taking their holidays in the UK during the Covid 19 pandemic.

Impressive outlooks and sustainability - Kernow Fires owner Simon Breckon commented: “We’re pleased to have contributed to the success of the beach lofts and have seen strong growth in Cornwall’s domestic and commercial fireplace markets this year.”

Watergate Bay Hotel CEO Will Ashworth said: “The beach lofts are our best rooms. They are sized very generously and the interior design represents our

19

INTERIORS

020 ATB

OBSIDIANA COMPAC WINS INTERNATIONAL DESIGN AWARD Obsidiana COMPAC, a unique surface made from 100% recycled glass, has won a prestigious FX International Design Award at an online ceremony recently held in London. The panel of 28 renowned judges said Obsidiana COMPAC was ‘practical, beautiful and sustainable’ and awarded it first place in the surface’s category. COMPAC is the first manufacture in the world to produce this material which uses 100% recyclable glass in the production process and the product itself is 100% recyclable at the end of its life cycle.

The creation of Obsidiana COMPAC underpins the company’s long-term commitment to produce safe, circular, sustainable and environmentally friendly products developed by their highly skilled R&D team.

Launched in 2020, Obsidiana COMPAC has already achieved notable recognition by gaining Cradle to Cradle Certified Bronze™ accreditation - an international accreditation that assesses products and manufacturing processes to ensure they fulfil the premise of the circular economy.

20

Judges at the KBIS exhibition in America were also impressed with Obsidiana COMPAC and the company’s overall commitment to the environment awarding it first place in the sustainability category. Obsidiana COMPAC, combines beauty and versatility with performance and can be used for a wide range of applications including kitchen worksurfaces, wall cladding, splash backs, shower trays and vanity units.

Since the company’s inception over 45 years ago, COMPAC have been totally committed to the environment and have led the way by using renewable energies in the production and manufacture of products, harvesting rainwater and recycling it for use throughout their factories, using organic resins and planting thousands of trees as part of an ongoing reforestation programme. https://en.compac.es/obsidiana/

021 ATB

21

ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL

TEMPLE MEADS ROOF REFURBISHMENT WORK PROTECTED BY FIREFLY FIRE BARRIER A programme of works to repair and repaint the roof structure to Bristol Temple Meads railway station is featuring the use of the ZEUS Horizontal fire barrier system from TBA FIREFLY™ employed to enclose a series of shallow arch scaffold beams or ‘cassettes’ that span the tracks, thereby protecting the workforce from any potential train fire as they use the access deck above. In total, the work has consumed some 3,600m2 of the high performance and fully certificated system.

FIREFLY™ ZEUS Horizontal 60:30 is able to offer 30 minutes’ insulation and a full one hour’s integrity in a variety of applications. Third Party certified by IFCC (certificate No 1532) Zeus Horizontal comprises a flexible fabric which is chemically treated to optimise its thermal properties and prevent the spread of fire. While it was actually developed to create compartmentation within hidden areas of buildings, the system is also ideally suited for protecting the underside and vertical sides to the scaffold cassettes. www.tbafirefly.com

022 ATB

OMNIE PACKAGE HEATS LOW ENERGY HILLSIDE HOUSE IN NORTH YORKSHIRE A contractor developer, targeting the high end property market in the area around the Yorkshire towns of Ripon and Harrogate, is utilising a renewables and underfloor heating package from OMNIE to provide all of the space heating and hot water, as well as to maintain indoor air quality.

For the new-build five-bedroom house hear Ripon, Hotham Construction is making use of insulated concrete formwork for the walls of structure, as well as a highly insulated pitched roof supported by JJI engineered timber joists.

OMNIE determined that a 7kW LG Therma V air source heat pump would be sufficient to feed the Ultimate and OgeeBoard UFH circuits, along with all of the domestic hot water requirements. OMNIE also designed and supplied a full MVHR system for the house. The 18mm thick, precision routed XPS insulation panels feature a special ‘diffuser channel’ concentric to the pipe runs. For the lower ground or basement, OMNIE’s OgeeBoard XPS panels were laid throughout the bedrooms, bathrooms and a generous sized gymnasium which adjoins the home’s plant room. www.omnie.co.uk

22

FUEL SAVING & BEST VALUE WITH LIMITLESS TEMPERATURE ACCURATE HOT WATER FROM RINNAI UK Continuous flow units & systems deliver hot water on demand.

Users pay only for fuel used, not to store heated water.

Fuel cost savings of 30% and lower carbon emissions are realistic on all continuous flow hot water heating units and systems installed at any commercial site. The technology employed means that a site and end-user pays only for fuel used to heat the limitless flow hot water to the required temperature - the units are all programmable up to 85 degrees C. Says Chris Goggin, Operation Director for Rinnai, ’Our company operates in over 50 countries worldwide, and manufactures on each of the five continents producing over 2 million water heating units each year. We have a global reach of over 650 design engineers plus testing facilities in Japan, America and Australasia. We have moved this quickly as we perceive that the market is fast changing.

Therefore, from early in the New Year we will be broadening our product offering to encompass others forms of lower carbon hot water delivery units and systems.'

‘The UK government, although committed to decarbonisation, has been rather mixed in its approach on the road to NetZero but one thing is certain – we must stop using carbon bearing fuels as soon as is realistic and pragmatic. We have huge populations that want to halt climate change but still want to be within their present living standards.'

Adds Mr Goggin, ‘We have positioned the Rinnai name as a company that offers the highest quality product and best available value with service excellence. It is a position of responsibility and we have maintained a stance of doing the very best we can for customers. We believe implicitly in this basic premise - we do the best we can, and we achieve what our customers want and expect. And that includes anticipating the future.’

“We are manufacturers of proven excellence and are using our core competencies of design engineering solutions to suit all possible future needs and fuels.

We have a global reach with 650 R & D engineers. We will evolve to ensure that our customers have the very best possible product options.

023 ATB

“We believe, implicitly that there will be a need for a variety of solutions to the Energy Trilemma – there is not one single fuel or appliance that is the answer to all the problems. We also believe that some of the statements coming from quasi-official quarters is the drum-banging of interested parties looking after their own primary financial and or political interests.’

The new products and formats are all Rinnai products and meet or exceed existing or proposed UK legislation or certifications. www.rinnaiuk.com

‘We want to see realism brought into an increasingly polarised debate that, at times reaches levels of unbridled hysteria. Fact, logic and reason must be employed for the best outcome for all of us. We need decarbonisation, we need NetZero, and we need it as soon as possible but in such a way that is pragmatic in terms of catering to the existing populations and markets,” he adds.

23

ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL

ESI PROVIDES HEATING CONTROLS FOR TALLEST CITY CENTRE RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT IN SECOND CITY

The new leader of the pack in the heating controls sector here in the UK – ESi – has seen its controls specified for a landmark development in the centre of Birmingham.

When City councillors in Birmingham gave permission to developer Moda Living and Glenn Howells Architects to execute their joint vision of a 132-metre skyscraper, which would become the tallest residential building in the city they continued a trend that has seen Birmingham take the lead in developing living spaces close to the city centre.

The 42-storey 2one2 Broad Street features a slim rectangular profile thrusting out of a three-storey podium set to house 3,251 square metres of retail space. It’s built on the site of the old Tramps Night Club, close to Brindley Place. The 481-unit apartment tower, with apartments for rental only, will include a 200-metre outdoor running track on the podium roof, the first of its kind for a residential building in the United Kingdom.

024 ATB

Nearly 3,000 square metres of communal and amenity space will be provided within the skyscraper, including a residents' lounge, dining club area, and wellness zone.

The building's elevators will be tech-savvy, with smart elevators controlled by an app on residents' phones.

An exterior of floor-to-ceiling windows is interlaced with an enveloping bronze veil that emphasizes the verticality of the project. Inside, units will be split into 30 studios, 163 one-bedrooms, 260 two-bedrooms and 28 threebedroom layouts. Main contractor for the scheme is John Sisk & Son of Birmingham and M&E Consultants responsible for installation of the heating controls is Imtech Engineering Services.

481 of ESi’s ESRTP4 wired programmable room thermostats adorn the walls of these exciting new apartments. The ESRTP4 is an easy to install-and-use 7 day, 5/2 or 24hr programmable room thermostat which offers up to six time and temperature changes each day with different programmes for weekdays and weekends.

24

The ESRTP4 has all the energy savings features such as TPI, Delayed Start and Optimum Stop and the allimportant Landlord Service Interval.

Battery powered for ease of installation, the ESRTP4 has a large, easy-to-read blue backlit LCD display. It is easy to programme and operate because of the built-in programme options that the user can easily change to suit individual heating requirements. It incorporates a real time clock and calendar function which automatically changes between BST/GMT time changes.

Time and date are factory-set making time setting or adjustment unnecessary. These room thermostats are OpenTherm compatible. www.esicontrols.co.uk.

WRAPTITE® PROTECTS DIAMOND TOWER APARTMENTS IN CANARY WHARF An impressive build-to-rent development in the heart of Canary Wharf, London, has highlighted another incredible benefit of the high performing Wraptite® air barrier. The iconic Newfoundland building, also known as “The Diamond Tower”, rises 60-storeys above the Thames and is home to 636 apartments.

Specialist contractor Sharpfibre provided fire stopping to the 636 apartments and common areas, installing Firetherm Intubatt and Intucompound and fire protection to the structural steels using Knauf Fire-Tek 160. During construction, the structural steels were exposed to the elements until the contractor could install the cladding, which could have caused an issue due to declension. Knauf Fire-Tek 160 does not have any hydrophobic additives to prevent the insulation from winddriven rain or moisture, so a solution was required to offer temporary protection from the elements.

The answer was to cover the protected steels with the Wraptite airtightness membrane from the A. Proctor Group. Wraptite is designed as an effective vapour permeable air barrier to maximise the energy efficiency of buildings. The application of the Wraptite membrane provided class W1 protection from the weather/elements to the Fire-Tek and the exposed steel until the diamond shape façade was installed and completed. www.proctorgroup.com

025 ATB

STELRAD CPDS NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE Stelrad Radiators popular CIBSE and RIBA accredited CPD programmes are still available for face-to-face presentations, but they are now also available conveniently online. The Covid pandemic has seen a switch to working from home for many traditional consumers for CPDs and want flexibility to complete their learning at their own convenience at a time to suit them.

You can simply go to the Stelrad website at www.stelrad.com/cpdonline-training/ open the programme at your convenience, digest the information and take the test at the end of the presentation and submit your answers. If you’ve passed, Stelrad send a certificate for you to add the CPD points to your running total for your professional body. “We’re finding people enjoy boosting their CPD totals at times that suit them – evenings and weekends seem to be particularly popular - and we’re delighted to be able to provide these options via the website,” says Stelrad’s Head of Marketing, Chris Harvey.

There are three CPDs available – “A guide to heating your home with heat emitters on low temperature systems”, “The evolution of the central heating radiator with a focus on safety radiators” and “The difference in tubular radiators, specifications and dimensions which impact the heat available.” They all take around an hour and they are all free. For more information or to book a CPD session at your place of work if you prefer that to working online, call 01709 578950 or email marketing@stelrad.com.

25

DOORS, WINDOWS & GLAZING

RUNDUM MEIR FAÇADE DOORS UNIQUELY REFLECT MANCHESTER LANDMARK’S HERITAGE

A bronze façade featuring integrated Rundum Meir garage doors for two new townhouses in central Manchester has been uniquely designed to reflect the architecture of the nearby John Rylands Library, one of the city’s most famous neoGothic buildings. Their full height bronze façade delivers a striking external appearance that takes a distinctive visual cue from the library, located opposite.

026 ATB

The houses are designed around an inverted living approach, enabling the architects to maximise the footprint of the site and use the space to its full potential. Above the garages are floors accommodating the bedrooms, with the living, dining and kitchen areas on the upper floors, and a rooftop courtyard/garden completing the arrangement.

The aluminium façade of both townhouses features laser cut and acid-etched lacy blind tracery patterns that match those in the windows of the library. The lacy pattern extends over the full height of the façade which includes large folding/sliding shutters.

These balance privacy with natural light requirements for residents during the day whilst being eye-catching at night as internal light shines through the laser cut pattern. This design extends into the twin side sliding sectional garage doors manufactured and installed by Rundum Meir, which effectively deliver a sliding façade at street level.

26

The twin Rundum Meir sliding garage doors each provide a clear opening of 3.8 m for easy vehicle access from the street. Hand made using extruded aluminium, the fully automated bespoke garage doors have an automated pedestrian door as well as the side sliding door that demonstrate the design flexibility offered by Rundum Meir, who create every garage door to meet project requirements.

In addition to the side sliding sectional doors supplied for this central Manchester project, bespoke Rundum Meir garage doors are also available in ‘round the corner’ side sliding, overhead sectional and upand-over styles. www.rundum.co.uk

WRIGHTSTYLE COMPLETES JORDAN PROJECT Wrightstyle, the advanced glazing system company, has completed a tourism project in the Kingdom of Jordan. The contract was for the supply of WSL 50 series FR doors and partitions, providing 120 minutes of fire protection.

Wrightstyle’s systems have been installed in a hotel in Ayla Marina Village, close to the Jordanian city of Aqaba, on the country’s Red Sea coast. The Jordan contract is just the latest project in the Middle East that Wrightstyle has been involved with, following other contract completions in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the Lebanon.

The Jordanian contact underlines the international nature of the specialist advanced glazing market, with Wrightstyle able to supply for the full range of indoor and external applications. www.wrightstyle.co.uk

027 ATB

We’ll help you hit the mark One thing is certain – everything changes. In our careers, we must keep on top of new developments: skills, laws, standards and technology.

We never stop learning and at ADSA, we’re there to help you every step of the way. From foundation courses and apprenticeships to technical qualifications and wider learning or continuous professional

development.

Be the best that you can be - with ADSA

#bepartoftheconversation Find out more: www.adsa.org.uk or 01827 216136

27

DOORS, WINDOWS & GLAZING

HELPING TO PRESERVE AN INDUSTRIAL LANDSCAPE Two former furniture factory buildings in East London have been transformed into high-end apartments with the help of Crittall windows. Long Street in the Hackney conservation area was a key component in Shoreditch’s industrial heritage.

The area was once the heart of the capital’s furniture trade and, following the Second World War when large tracts of land were earmarked for comprehensive re-development, the then London County Council sought to preserve the district’s characteristic built environment as well as local business by constructing what were termed ‘flatted factories’.

The four-storey structural steel-framed blocks were built in Long Street in 1959 with plenty of natural daylight and generously sized lifts for transporting uncut sheets of plywood to the upper floors.

028 026 ATB

The two blocks now form part of a luxury residential development, Long and Waterson. Architects Fletcher Priest have taken their design cue from the industrial lineage of the area, retaining original

28

external brickwork and window settings and adding two rooftop penthouse levels creating a total of 71 apartments.

Crittall Corporate W20 and MW40 systems were specified, in fixed and opening format together with Crittall cold form tubular doors that meet the RC3 burglary resistance security standard; a choice that preserves both the original appearance and the industrial heritage of the area. www.crittall-windows.co.uk

029 ATB

TORMAX CRACKS CYBER CRIME ACCESS Recently completed, the £9m Cyber Quarter – Midlands Centre for Cyber Security, located in Skylon Park, Hereford Enterprise Zone, was designed by Associated Architects and built

by Speller Metcalfe. TORMAX was contracted to the project by Aluminium Sashes to deliver a contemporary four-wing automatic revolving door to the main entrance.

Reliability and whisper-quiet operation is assured thanks to the world-class TORMAX 5201 door drive which combines a powerful, high-torque motor with impeccable design credentials to minimise maintenance requirements and ensure a long working life. With a build-in height of just 140mm, the slim 5201 allows for a shallow canopy compartment allowing a truly minimalist entrance solution to be created.

Skylon Park is the only Enterprise Zone in the country that focuses on the defence and security sector, with the cyber security centre being a joint venture between the University of Wolverhampton and Herefordshire Council, funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through the Marches Local Enterprise Partnership.

networks and research expertise, enabling them to use specialist training rooms and laboratory spaces to tackle the growing threat of cyber-attacks.

“An automatic revolving door allows for a smooth, free-flow of pedestrians whilst also contributing to a low carbon footprint by isolating the interior atmosphere of the building from the external elements, creating a draught-free solution” comments Simon Roberts, MD for TORMAX. Further improving energy efficiency, system specific data is automatically captured, and door operation adapted to counter the impact of wind levels, or a build-up of dirt for example, ensuring the door continues to revolve with optimum performance.

Technologically advanced sensors are integrated within the system, ensuring uncompromising personal safety for every user. A world-leader, TORMAX has over 70 years of experience in the design, manufacture and installation of sophisticated automatic entrances, including sliding, folding and revolving door systems. www.tormax.co.uk

The 2,000 square metre building allows businesses to benefit from the University’s

29

DOORS, WINDOWS & GLAZING

STYLE OFFERS UNIQUE FULLY-GLAZED PASS DOORS FOR GLASS MOVEABLE WALLS

030 ATB

T

he head office of PRS for Music has recently been relocated to the impressive Hay’s Galleria development, London Bridge, putting them firmly at the epicentre of the UK’s vibrant cultural sector.

Delivering a dynamic interior, partitioning experts at Style worked with Space Invader architects and contractors, 21 Construction, to create a variety of flexible meeting rooms using a combination of glass and solid Dorma Hüppe moveable wall systems.

Style is the only moveable wall specialists able to include fully glazed pass-doors into glass operable walls, as opposed to solid doors, giving the PRS for Music’s offices a light and spacious aesthetic throughout.

30

PRS for Music protect the value of music by licensing music usage and collecting royalties globally for its members. The new ultramodern headquarters and collaboration “hub” provides an inspiring facility in which teams can connect and work together.

Style’s adaptable space solution gives staff and visitors highly flexible meeting areas that can be easily opened-up or divided to create smaller rooms, all in a matter of minutes. A Dorma Hüppe Variflex glass moveable wall was installed in an L-shaped configuration in one of the meeting areas.

Featuring semi-automatic operation for ease of use, the operable wall also boasts 52dB acoustic integrity for complete privacy and a unique, fully glazed pass door, helping maintain natural light and a sense of space.

031 ATB In a separate meeting area, two solid Dorma Hüppe Variflex moveable walls were installed, each with 59dB acoustics and a contemporary Kvadrat fabric wrap finish.

“The arrangement of glass and solid moveable walls works really well at PRS Music,” said Michael Porter, sales director at Style South.

“Glass is growing hugely in popularity as it offers an open plan feel, with lots of light, whilst still providing the required level of privacy."

“We’re also incredibly proud at Style of our glass pass doors, as it is an entirely exclusive feature in the moveable walls sector. Customers really appreciate the seamless finish to the interior décor we can deliver.” www.style-partitions.co.uk

31

DOORS, WINDOWS & GLAZING

PROFAB ACCESS INTRODUCES INDUSTRY FIRST FOR FIRE INTEGRITY AND INSTALLATION Profab Access has launched a revolutionary certified frame system that sets a new standard for innovation, fire performance and functionality, making installation on site safer, faster and simpler. The only product of its kind currently available, the expertly engineered PRECISION adjustable frame completely transforms the installation process for construction professionals and streamlines the specification process for architects and specifiers.

This is achieved through the product’s unique construction, which enables the frame to be fully adjusted to meet the specific dimensions of each structural opening, not only ensuring the installation is fit for purpose by providing the highest standards in accuracy, but subsequently removing the requirement for plastic packers for a safer, faster and simpler installation process. The patent pending PRECISION adjustable frame is now supplied as standard with Profab Access’ high quality steel INTEGRA 4000 Series Fire Rated Riser Door. The PRECISION frame dramatically reduces fitting times and eliminates the risk of using non-compliant components throughout installation, which may not have been tested in conjunction with the riser door itself.

032 ATB

32

033 ATB

Factory applied intumescent strips to the outer frame also eliminate the need for additional intumescent mastic when installing the frame into a flexible or solid wall construction. Profab Access is the UK’s first manufacturer to have its concealed Riser Doors bi-directionally fire tested and certified by an accredited third party. The PRECISION adjustable frame has also been bi-directionally fire tested as an entire doorset with the INTEGRA 4000 Series Riser Door for up to 120 minutes, receiving the CERTIFIRE accreditation for installation in unlined shaft walls and solid wall construction.

This provides architects, specifiers and contractors with a completely certified solution, as both the frame and the riser door have been bi-directionally tested as a single doorset and are supplied with comprehensive documentation to evidence their performance credentials and adherence to all relevant regulations, including BS EN 1634-1:2014 +A1:2018. The PRECISION adjustable frame is constructed with an all-inone smoke, intumescent and acoustic FS1000 seal, eliminating the need for additional intumescent mastic when installing the frame into a flexible or solid wall construction.

This cost efficient and sustainable material contains no halogen compounds and will not emit toxic gas when heated, ensuring the safety of building occupants in the event of a fire. As an official Made in Britain member, Profab Access’ comprehensive portfolio of Riser Doors and Access Solutions are manufactured at its headquarters in Atherstone by its experienced team of design and engineering experts. www.profabaccess.com.

33

DOORS, WINDOWS & GLAZING

THERMALLY SEPARATED SOLUTION As the focus on climate change continues to grow so does the need for net zero buildings and improving our carbon footprint. GEZE’s ECdrive T2 automatic sliding doors with a thermally broken profile system – the GCprofile Therm - offer a solution. The GCprofile Therm accommodates up to 32 mm glass thickness in either two-pane insulation glass with 2x ESG 6mm, UG value 1.0, or three-pane insulation glass with 3x ESG 4 mm, UG value 0.8. The profile system uses slim aluminium frames which reduce visible sightlines by approx. 30mm – giving designers greater ability to produce a clean design aesthetic while providing greater efficiency.

With increased performance for leaf weight of up to 140 kg, the GCprofile Therm also boasts improved air tightness (compared to other ISO profile systems), better sound insulation and improved wet weather durability aided by its fit and an optional floor guide with drainage. It can be combined with manual and motorised GEZE hook bolt locks, without losing thermal separation and the appearance of the system remains discreet, even with locking. A new brochure has been produced to explain the package. This is available by calling the marketing team on 01543 443015 or emailing info.uk@geze.com. For more information about GEZE UK’s comprehensive range of automatic and manual door closers call 01543 443000 or visit www.geze.co.uk

034 ATB SELECTAGLAZE CURVED ON PLAN UNITS CREATE A SPLASH AT KIDDERPORE HALL Working with Mount Anvil, a swimming pool area in a Grade II Listed home has been restored to its former grandeur, with the assistance of Selectaglaze sealed units and curved on plan secondary glazing. Kidderpore Hall sits looking over North London, in what was referred to as the Childs Hill neighborhood of Hampstead; once a relatively rural area. It has been beautifully reimagined through extensive refurbishment and brought back to a livable state as a single family home.

One of the areas of the house which needed particular attention was a new pool and spa area in the basement.

The original single glazed sash windows did little to provide heat retention. Selectaglaze secondary glazing was chosen to assist in upgrading the thermal insulation in this Grade II Listed building. To ensure maximum U-values were gained in this exposed corner of the building, 24mm double sealed secondary glazed units were required with obscure glass to provide privacy. Six window and one door were treated with Series 41 side hung casements, glazed with 4-16-4 gas filled sealed units.

However, to match the sightlines of the bay window framing the jacuzzi, curved on plan units were specified. www.selectaglaze.co.uk

34

ADSA HIGHLIGHTS GROUNDS FOR GOOD VALUE Whether you favour a cappuccino, latte or Americano, membership of the Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA) could be just the shot that you need. Costing half the daily equivalent of a brew from your favourite High Street coffee outlet – ADSA membership promises a strong body and no froth!

Clearly, the industry finds this refreshing: membership of ADSA has increased by approximately 15 per cent over the past two years – indicating that more and more businesses understand its value and the support that it offers their organisations.

But in order to get the most from membership, it’s important that the person who applies or renews it, unlocks the many benefits that membership affords.

“Motivation for joining may vary but realising how ADSA membership can help support the individual, their organisation and the wider industry is crucial,” says ADSA Managing Director Ken Price.

“It provides wide-ranging opportunities for continuous professional development, across a variety of roles throughout member organisations, which will in turn boost their approach to quality and standards. It also enables members to directly help shape our industry,” he adds. There so many ‘added value’ benefits to joining. So, with that in mind, here are some top tips on unlocking member benefits.

Networking - One of the most obvious benefits to joining ADSA is networking. ADSA's member organisations are varied and filled with potential contacts, clients and partners who can help your business move to the next level and help you become more prominent in your industry. ADSA holds regular events to bring people together – in person and online – including their annual members’ conference which is FREE to attend.

Support - Providing help when you need it is all important.

ADSA's technical support helpline is available to everyone within their member organisations. No question is too silly to ask and if they don’t know the answer, they’ll find out on your behalf.

Contact is just a phone call or email away.

Training and Education - ADSA provides a whole raft of training and education to meet a variety of needs at many levels. This includes access to their online Academy with more than 100 courses, many of which that are free. ADSA has an Academy Help Guide to get you started. Their training has it all: sector-specific, key and complementary skills, courses for technical and nontechnical staff, entry-level to management skills, workshops and qualifications, delivered through a variety of ways, using different learning methods. Quite simply, something for everyone.

Certification - As a delivery partner for the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS), ADSA issues cards on renewal of ADSA membership and competency training. As the principal card provider for the automatic door industry, they are part of a CSCS working group progressing the introduction of smart card technology which will allow site managers to check the credential of those who attend premises.

Influence - ADSA is the voice of the automatic door industry and works with a range of organisations and regulatory bodies to ensure that it is properly represented within the wider building products and construction sector. They strive to develop quality standards and exert their influence to support the best interests of their members.

Information - ADSA endeavours to keep you informed with news and views including best practice and industry trends. Their membership communications include regular technical standards bulletins, Opening Doors magazine, email newsletters, website updates and social media posts. ADSA also offers discounted prices on BSI/EN publications.

Best Practice and Standards - ADSA experts work with BSI, which is a member of CEN, the European standardisation organisation made up of standard-setting bodies from 34 countries. ADSA's primary objective is to improve the quality of safety and installation standards for the powered pedestrian door industry.

Creating and influencing standards is an acknowledgement of the expertise that exists within ADSA and provides the opportunity for member feedback to influence specification creation.

Ideas Exchange - Everything begins with an idea, and by exchanging ideas we have the potential to do great things.

ADSA provides opportunities for industry professionals to work together for the benefit of the industry. ADSA encourages individuals to take part in special projects and undertake roles in their executive or technical committees. For further information about becoming a member of ADSA, email: rachel@adsa.org.uk or phone: 01827 216136.

35

035 ATB

DOORS, WINDOWS & GLAZING

STEAL A MARCH WITH STEEL

036 ATB

Steel windows offer a wide variety of aesthetic and performance benefits over comparable alternatives. Here, market leader Crittall answers some common questions relating to the specification of the product.

Strength, security, and maintenance - how do steel framed windows measure up compared with other materials? Steel is inherently the strongest frame material for windows and doors.

It is three times stronger than aluminium for example. But this strength is combined with elegance. The profile (sightline) of a steel window is much less than that of its aluminium or uPVC counterparts.

The slender appearance allows, frame for frame, a greater surface area for the glazing and, indeed, larger expanses of glass can be achieved while retaining an aesthetic appearance.

The steel frames are almost virtually maintenance free. They are hot dip galvanised and finished with a factory applied Duralife polyester powder coating in accordance with BS EN13438. Products thus protected have a life expectancy in excess of 60 years. The strength of the material, and multi-point locking also greatly enhance the security of the buildings in which they are installed.

Tell me more about thermal performance. Isn’t steel cold? Window frames made from traditional rolled steel are energy efficient incorporating high performance weatherseals, insulating double or triple glazing and narrow sightlines that enhance U values and reduce energy consumption. A T60 thermally broken window features an advanced high-density polyurethane isolator as a thermal barrier. This, together with housing high performance double or triple glazing up to 45mm wide, ensures the system surpasses the requirements of current regulations offering overall U values as low as 0.8 W/m²/K. Market-leading weather-tightness performance has been tested to European and ASTM standards. Alternatively, Ultra insulating glass units use suspended film technology in a double-glazed unit to convert it to provide triple-glazed performance. Ultra IG’s innovative design results in a thinner and lighter construction compared to traditional triple glazing, as well as being superior in performance, offering U-values as low as 0.4 W/m²/K in a double glass unit, without increasing glazing thickness or weight.

36

What about noise reduction? Measures taken to improve thermal performance also effectively insulate against noise. And where steel framed glazed screens and doors are specified for building interiors it is sound attenuation, rather than weathertightness, that is key. According to the usage – in a home, an office, a school appropriate sound reduction is achieved by acoustic glazing that leaves unaltered the width of the slim steel frames so they can admit the maximum amount of daylight throughout the building.

Protection against fire for internal glass screens? The Innervision FR steel-framed system is compliant with BS476 Part 22 providing 30 minutes (FD30) integrity fire resistance whilst preserving its unique slender steel profile setting it apart from other bulkier firerated systems.

How do steel’s environmental credentials match up? Increasingly, this is becoming a key issue for buyers. They want to be sure that the product purchased is produced from sustainable materials and uses eco-friendly, energy efficient processes. Also, that the end product is energy efficient with exceptional life expectancy.Steel is, put simply, one of the most recyclable materials on the planet. It can be recycled and re-used continuously. Means of manufacture and standard business practices are also designed to reduce energy consumption.

Crittall has fitted solar panels to the factory roof, installed energy efficient LED lighting that reduces energy consumption by 50% while simultaneously improving light levels, and introduced electric hybrid vehicles to the company fleet. The firm operates an ISO 14001 accredited Environmental Management System, part of which involves setting targets for reducing energy consumption, eliminating waste and recycling materials with the ultimate objective of creating a closed loop manufacturing process. The company’s products are made from 100% recycled steel.

037 ATB

Are steel windows suited to new build or refurbishment?

They are equally suited to both. Crittall’s business spans three centuries, from the middle of the 1800s. There are many heritage buildings that were built with original Crittall windows and when refurbishment work is undertaken local planners demand a like-for-like replacement for historic and aesthetic reasons. This can be achieved while installing windows that now meet modern thermal and acoustic requirements while remaining faithful to the original appearance.

Architects designing modern buildings also value the clean lines and simple elegance of steel windows that, with large expanses of glazing, augment elevations, whether on commercial, business, educational or residential premises. Steel frames can also be supplied in the full range of BS and RAL colours.

What does steel offer the homeowner, especially in the post-Covid world of work?

The pandemic has caused many working professionals to re-assess whether they need to continue to travel into urban centres or whether they should work from home and adjust their living space accordingly. The use of internal glazed screens, as detailed above, can help provide suitable workspace in the home, with maximum daylight but minimal noise disturbance. Crittall has established an online community where customers can exchange these and other ideas and solutions to improve their homes and businesses using the company’s products.

Summing up , why choose steel? An initial higher investment in steel-framed windows and doors will be offset by its longevity and reduced maintenance, leading to lower, long-term costs compared with other materials; and steel is beautiful. www.crittall-windows.co.uk

37

THE VIEWPOINT

THREE THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN SPECIFYING ROOF ACCESS HATCHES

When choosing roof access hatches for commercial or residential projects, there are a number of factors that must be addressed at the initial design stages in order to not only achieve a successful specification, but also deliver safe and sufficient access for the entire lifecycle of the building.

Here Tony Stevens, Technical Estimator at Bilco UK, discusses which factors should be taken into consideration when selecting Roof Access Hatches: 1) Purpose for access - Whether for the education, healthcare, leisure or commercial sectors, roof access hatches are required to provide permanent and secure access to the roof area. In order to make sure you’re choosing the correct system to meet your project’s unique requirements, you must first identify the main reason for requiring access to the roof.

038 ATB

Is it purely for maintenance reasons?

Or will a safe means of access also be required for the regular installation or removal of equipment from the roof?

Here you should also identify what tools and equipment will need to be transferred through the access hatch, or whether it will just be the individual themselves that is conducting the necessary work.

2) Frequency and product specification - Once you have established your reason for requiring safe access to the roof, you will then be able to make an informed choice regarding which roof access hatch and corresponding ladder system is best suited to meet the needs of your project.

It is important to specify the correct Roof Access Hatch and Ladder combination to ensure that access from the ladder, through the roof access hatch, is as safe as possible.

For example, a small roof access hatch should be accessed via a fixed vertical ladder, which is also the most suitable option for projects where space is limited.

38

Alternatively, if you use a companionway ladder or a retractable ladder, the roof access hatch length must be extended to around 1500 mm to provide for easy and safe access.

However, here it should be noted that a minimum head clearance of 120mm is required and that the maximum single climb is no more than three metres, in accordance with BS4211- 7.2. Regardless of the size of the roof access hatch, the system should be operated easily and safely with one hand, in accordance with the requirements outlined within the Manual Handling Regulations, enabling the individual to maintain three points of contact with the fixed ladder.

During the installation process, the ladder must be positioned opposite the hinge to ensure safe and unobstructed access. If access to the roof is required on a regular basis for professionals that will have to transfer tools and equipment through the hatch, a Fixed Staircase Roof Access Hatch, also known as a Service Stair Roof Access Hatch, should be specified with a Companionway Ladder or a Fixed Staircase.

It should here be noted that the roof hatch must be sufficient to maintain a head clearance of 2000mm, as detailed in Building Regulations Part K. 3) Bespoke requirements - To ensure all the criteria are successfully met, you should also consider whether a custom made roof access hatch should be chosen to ensure each of these areas is adequately fulfilled.

This includes options such as Bilco UK’s SKY Flatglass, which functions as both a Roof Access Hatch or a Smoke Ventilator, and is supplied with a clear, translucent lid to enable natural daylight into specific areas of the building, without impeding the functionality and accessibility of the hatch.

Increased access opening sizes or double leaf configurations should also be explored where access is required for larger items of equipment or tools.

Motorised options also allow the individual to safely maintain contact with the ladder when entering or exiting the hatch. All installations should be subject to individual Risk Assessments.

039 ATB

Comprehensive training should also be provided for all professionals, supported by Method Statements regarding safe and correct use of the access solutions installed. For further information on Bilco UK’s roof access solutions, visit www.bilcouk.co.uk or call 01284 701696.

For advice on how to specify the correct ladder, visit: https://www. bilcouk.co.uk/news/specifying-ladders For further information on specifying the right roof access hatch for your upcoming project, download Bilco UK’s free guide: https://www.bilcouk.co.uk/ files/downloads/choosing-the-rightaccess-hatch-bilco.pdf

39

THE VIEWPOINT

A ROBUST APPROACH TO INDUSTRIAL PROTECTION SYSTEM SPECIFICATION Architects are increasingly specifying industrial protection equipment for warehouses and distribution centres. Paul Roehricht of Brandsafe provides guidance on best practice.

040 ATB

Distribution and logistics are dynamic sectors that’s forecast to be worth over $325 billion by the end of 2024. In the UK alone, one leading commercial property group* reports that investment in UK industrial and logistics totalled a record £6bn in H1 2021, more than double the £2.7bn recorded in the same period of 2020 and up 54% on the previous record period in 2018. It also forecasts that the UK will require an extra 92 million sq. ft. of warehousing space over the next three years.

The demand for online grocery sales alone will account for 7.1 million sq. ft. of this additional space. So, what does all this demand mean for warehouses now and in the future? One thing for certain is that continuing best practice around health and safety in industrial environments that are becoming ever busier will be crucial.

People and property need to be protected and architects and others responsible for these designs, need to understand how they can facilitate better, safer and more effective workplaces for their clients.

Under UK law, employers must observe a duty of care to their workforce: they must identify the risks each person faces at work and plan accordingly.

Specification - A key part of best practice involving specification for new warehouses, or even improving or expanding existing ones, centres around the efficiency and sustainability of the property - clients are ultimately looking for a premises that runs as safely and efficiently as possible.

40

The Health and Safety Executive’s HSG76 advises on a number of areas that need to be taken into account when planning the layout of a site so that ‘…pedestrians and vehicles can circulate safely.

Where vehicles and pedestrians use the same traffic route, there should be adequate separation between them’.

This involves the installation of clear signage and floor markings, which are crucial to the safe and efficient movement of people, vehicles and machinery around the industrial workspace. HSG76 also recommends combining this clearly discernible signage with guardrails and pedestrian handrails used to create clear segregation and traffic routes.

Racking and storage is another area where incremental gains in safety can be achieved in a relatively straightforward and cost-effective manner.

The application of clip-on protection to rack ends and any sharp edges of units will for example, protect people, vehicles and the units themselves from impact and collision damage.

Careful consideration should also be given to choosing the right products supplier. First and foremost, it is critical that they must offer products appropriate for the project. This might seem somewhat obvious, but it is not uncommon for some safety products to look good on paper only to lack the necessary performance characteristics that make them suitable for the required application.

Here, opt for products whose performance has been assessed and verified through independent testing this will always be a good starting point and a clear indicative of suitability.

A good supplier should be able to advise an architect on the performance requirements for each system on a project-by-project basis, which will allow you to tailor your designs to the exact needs of the end user. This is where it benefits to partner with a supplier which has an in-house surveying and design team; they can directly support you and make it easier to create bespoke solutions for each project.

It’s important to bear in mind that the end client is dutybound by Regulation 3 of The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (1999) to ‘…make a suitable and sufficient assessment of the risks to the health and safety of their employees to which they are exposed whilst they are at work’.

An experienced supplier will be well positioned to offer advice and insight when it comes to producing a comprehensive risk assessment for the project site in question. It is also worth considering the strategic partnerships of the supplier when the relevant products are required for your project.

041 ATB

Ultimately, architects and specifiers will want to work with fast and responsive suppliers; organisations that can guide and advise based on project requirements through a consultative approach. Health and safety is a critical component of any modern, well-managed warehouse or logistics operation and there is always room for improvement when it comes to safeguarding and protecting people, and mitigating risk.

Requisite expertise - Looking further down the project timeline, it will make life easier for the appointed main contractor if your safety system supplier is able to deploy its own installation teams. They will be best placed to assist on-site, helping to make sure that the project is completed within the desired timescales and budget.

In short, specification of effective safety solutions is simply good business. A RIBA-approved CPD seminar for architects on industrial safety solutions is available from Brandsafe. www.brandsafeprotection.com

They will also have the requisite technical knowledge to deal with any issues on-site during the installation process, adding further to fast turnaround times and efficiencies.

41

THE GALLERY

042 036 ATB

MARKET HOUSE, A STATEMENT IN EXTERIOR CLADDING

N

ew to Iowa City’s historic Northside District, Market House is a mixeduse gathering place located at the corner of North Linn and Market streets.

According to Nick Lindsley of Neumann Monson Architects, “The neighborhood, which is steeped in familiarity and a long history, has many buildings primarily clad in brick. Our strategy consisted of creating a five-story building, that blended in with these surrounding brick buildings, but also had a visual and textural identity of its own.

At first, we thought about using terra cotta on the building’s façade to complement brick, which we had originally chosen.”

Co-owner and developer of Market House, Ross Nusser added, “There’s much history here on the Northside of town, but in ways it’s become a forgotten part of town. Our dream was to offer a place for people to gather and rediscover all the amazing things located here.” (cont...)

42

043 037 ATB

43

THE GALLERY

044 ATB

(cont...) Above underground parking, the main space is planned for housing a restaurant, and also having a mezzanine level for a smaller, complementary commercial space. Levels 2-5 are residential, with various sizes of condos.

The building is “senior-friendly” with wider doors and hallways, an elevator… and accessible bathrooms. There is a rooftop terrace which the owners believe is going to be the project’s centerpiece.

Neumann Monson had not previously worked with CUPACLAD natural slate rainscreen cladding, and according to Lindsley, “We were really impressed.

We liked its colorations, which seemed to be very consistent, its natural texture, and of course the fact that this product of nature needs little or no maintenance… and is extremely resistant to extreme climate change.”

The owners, architects and installation contractor, McComas Lacina Construction were collectively pleased with the ease in which the CUPACLAD 101 Logic system was installed.

44

045 ATB

Consisting of 40×20 cm slates installed horizontally via an invisible attachment program, (which include self-drilling screws actually designed by CUPACLAD engineers) all attachment items remain totally invisible apres-installation and thus, avoid any impacting of design integrity. Iowa City has a lot to offer.

The University of Iowa and Hawkeyes football are the heart of the community. The arts and education are taken very seriously there. Iowa City is a relaxed, yet progressive place.

And its newest hotspot location is clad with 5,000 square feet of exquisite 100% natural slate.

Furthermore, because Iowa City has four distinct seasons, it’s good to know that since Market House is clad has been strategically designed with CUPACLAD’s Logic 101 Natural Slate rainscreen System, its exterior will not be affected by harsh Eastern Iowa climate change. The building will hold up, looking just as it did when construction was completed… for decades and decades to come. https://www.cupapizarras.com/uk/rainscreen-cladding/

45

THE GALLERY

STO SYSTEM UPGRADES ACOUSTIC ENVIRONMENT FOR LONDON’S RAPHAEL COURT

046 ATB

View of refurbished Raphael Court at the V&A, 2021 © Victoria and Albert Museum London

T

he StoSilent Distance acoustic ceiling and wall system from Sto was specified for the world’s leading museum of art, design and performance and it now creates the perfect acoustic environment for a high-profile display of Renaissance art treasures. The V&A in London recently completed a landmark refurbishment of its Raphael Court where the StoSilent Distance system is now installed. “This was a very detailed and complex project to create a new acoustic environment which suited the function of the gallery,” explains Sto’s acoustics project manager, James Gosling. “Effective acoustic attenuation in the large gallery space was an essential requirement for future visitors to enjoy the artworks on display. The solution was to install a bespoke framework system which would hold 42 curved StoSilent Distance acoustic attenuation panels, each one over 5m in length.”

46

When it came to specifying the acoustic system, project architects Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios were looking for a solution which was lightweight, as they would be adding extra weight to the existing building. It also had to be able to accommodate the different angles and curves of the vaulted ceiling. “The StoSilent Distance system had recently been used on a successful project at V&A Dundee, so that set a positive precedent,” adds Feilden Clegg Bradley’s Matt Somerville.

“Sto worked very closely with us to identify the most effective solution from an acoustic point of view. They also provided large-scale samples which we could view on site to test the colour and finish alongside other materials used in the gallery.” “Improving the gallery acoustics was a complex and challenging project,” says Robert Austin of authorized Sto applicator, Alpine Finishing. “The priceless artworks measure some 5m x 3.5m, so rather than move them, the decision was made to construct protective shields around them.

That allowed them to remain in place during the installation work, but added an extra dimension to the project. The solution had to be adapted as the work progressed and new considerations arose, but the Sto system was sufficiently flexible to accommodate all the necessary changes.”

The StoSilent Distance system provides outstanding acoustic attenuation, and is ideal for use in large public spaces such as this. Flexibility is a key characteristic as the system allows the creation of large, sound-absorbent and seamless surfaces on walls and ceilings, but it can also be used to achieve sharp and consistent joints where required.

It provides very high levels of crack resistance, ensuring that the finished surfaces will retain their attractive appearance – an especially important consideration on a prestigious project such as this.

The Raphael Court is one of the V&A’s largest and most dramatic galleries and is home to the Raphael Cartoons, which are among the greatest treasures of the Renaissance in the UK, lent to the V&A from the Royal Collection by Her Majesty The Queen.

047 ATB

Shortly after his election in 1513, Pope Leo X commissioned Raphael to create a set of ten full-scale designs for a series of tapestries for the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican Palace, illustrating scenes from the lives of Saint Peter and Saint Paul. Once complete, the Cartoons were sent to a workshop in Brussels, which transformed the monumental designs into tapestries. Seven of the Cartoons survive to this day. The official opening of the refurbished gallery was scheduled to coincide with the 500th anniversary of Raphael’s death. www.sto.co.uk

The StoSilent Distance acoustic boards were finished with StoSilent Décor M. This spray-applied surface coating created a classic fine-stippled finish which perfectly matched the aesthetic of the gallery. It is easy to refurbish, environmentally friendly, inert and natureplus® approved, and can also be tinted to match a wide range of shades from the StoColor system.

47

THE GALLERY

YEOMAN SHIELD PROTECTS WITH STYLE AT NEW DENTAL FACILITY

W

hen Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust approved capital funding to convert a disused area of Chapel Allerton Hospital into a new dental facility, they engaged with Yeoman Shield wall & door protection specialists to provide durable yet attractive wall protection that would achieve the interior fit-out brief.

The project was managed by The Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Bridger Carr Architects and main contractor Bermar Building Co. Ltd., with Yeoman Shield supplying and installing the wall protection elements. The unit will have amenities to accommodate a 13 - chair dental facility for the provision of dental treatment for adults and children with the flexibility to be used for student training as part of the link with Leeds University School of Dentistry.

Due to the mixed use of the new unit the project team were keen to provide an environment that would be suitable for all users and uses.

The project required an attractive yet durable interior design that contributed to the wellbeing of both service users and staff members alike.

048 ATB

48

In the waiting and corridor areas, which would experience heavy footfall and require wall protection, it was important to create a décor that was not sterile and cold but one that would create a calm soothing environment for clients who may become nervous before their dental treatment. Yeoman Shield, along with providing standard FalmouthEx wall protection panels in mid- grey and contrasting Guardian Handrails, supplied and installed Imagery panels that had specifically chosen designs reverse printed on to clear protection panels.

The artwork was chosen with both adults and children in mind and, with collaboration between all involved, Yeoman Shield were able to deliver a finished product that showed the artwork in perfect colours, definition and quality. Designs included playful birds, cheerful flora and fauna along with calming green hues of forestry and foliage. The reverse method of printing for the protection panels served to shield the decorative design from any impact damage with the smooth surface being conducive to thorough cleaning, maintaining high hygiene standards without detriment to the colourful images.

049 ATB

The overall effect of the décor was welcoming, fresh and bright offering break out areas that were inviting for colleagues of the dental unit and other hospital departments to use for meetings, breaks and study time. For more information on Yeoman Shield Imagery panels or any other of the wall & door protection products available go to www.yeomanshield.com or call 0113 279 5854.

49

THE GALLERY

050 ATB

NEW DRU MAESTRO 60 TALL FRONT MODEL IN CONTEMPORARY SURROUND

50

T

he Maestro 60 Tall model has a compact 60 cm width for installation into false chimneybreasts. There are now Maestro 60 Tall front-facing, 2-sided and 3-sided models. The front version has a window height of 80 cms, with the 2 and 3-sided versions having heights of 75 cms. They have black, Ceraglass or matt glass interiors and can be combined with a wide choice of surrounds and frames. An additional feature is the DRU Easy Release door system. This has concealed hinges at the top of the glass door with a button-operated drop-down facility, which enables cleaning the glass, re-arranging the logs and other forms of maintenance. All three models have A energy labels and over 90% energy efficiency. Because they are balanced flue gas fires, they can be installed in a wide variety of locations. And with the DRU PowerVent® extended, fan- assisted flue system they are suitable for luxury apartments, hotels, restaurants and other domestic and commercial settings. www.drufire.com

051 ATB

51

PROJECT NEWS

HOWE GREEN ON THE RIGHT TRACK WITH CROSSRAIL CONTRACTOR, DMC CONTRACTS

052 ATB As Europe’s largest current infrastructure project, spanning over 60 miles via 41 different stations, the Elizabeth line will transform rail transport for London, with annual expected passenger levels reaching 200 million. The landmark project has seen the construction of 42km of new tunnels and the development of 10 new stations, with 31 existing stations also undergoing extensive upgrades.

As part of the formation of the central line, which spans from Westbourne Park to Plumstead and Pudding Mill Lane, official Crossrail contractor and one of the UK’s leading fit-out contractors, DMC Contracts, has installed over 1,500 Howe Green Floor Access Covers throughout seven stations. This includes Whitechapel, Farringdon, Paddington, Bond Street, West Ealing, Ealing Broadway and Acton Mainline, where over the last five years DMC Contract’s team of engineers have also installed over 30,000 square metres of Terrazzo and Granazzo floor tiles.

Howe Green’s 7500 Series stainless steel Floor Access Covers have been installed throughout the ticket halls, walkways and main concourses of each station to provide engineers with secure and concealed access to underfloor services, whilst the tamper proof construction also prevents unauthorised access. This is due to the cover’s unique design, which features unobtrusive barrel cover lifting points that can only be accessed with specific lifting and securing keys. As only the securing bolt and barrel edge are visible, the covers provide the highest

52

standards of security, without impacting on the overall design scheme or presenting a potential trip hazard.

Manufactured to BS 476: Part 22, the 7500 Series provides resistance to fire and smoke for up to two hours, providing the highest standards in safety, performance and compliance throughout all seven stations. With each floor access cover withstanding up to five tonne pneumatic tyre wheel loads, the 7500 Series was also supplied in a range of configurations, including singles, multiparts and ducts, to provide unobstructed access to rodding points and winch systems and electrical pits throughout all areas of the stations.

As the lifting blocks are anchored to the inner frame, the floor access covers can be handled easily and safely by contractors, reducing any potential disruption to passenger’s travel as the maintenance can be conducted quickly and safely. www.howegreen.com

TITAN LITE™ PROTECTING LIFE AND HISTORY AT NEW BRITISH MUSEUM FACILITY The decision by the British Museum to move a substantial part of its collection of historical artefacts from storage in London to a new state-of-the-art facility in Reading has led to a major fire-stopping contract for a specialist sub-contractor; featuring the use of the FIREFLY™ TITAN Lite™ 120:60 from the TBA FIREFLYTM range.

While the original specification for the well proven and widely used FIREFLY product came from project architects, John McAslam + Partners, the installation and on site expertise was provided by St. Albans ‘ based Loftus Construction Solutions Ltd. in installing the 60 rolls of TITAN Lite™ in line with the manufacturer’s standard details and project specific guidance.

As a flexible, woven material Titan Lite™ is easy to cut and fix and is chemically treated to improve its cooling properties, meaning it will prevent temperatures rising in adjoining areas when used to create compartmentation. It is installed as a threelayer, staggered system to achieve 120 minutes integrity and 60 minutes insulation. The system has been fully tested to BS 476 Parts 20 & 22 and is third party certified by IFCC. www.tbafirefly.com

053 ATB

MARMOX TILEBACKER BOARD USED FOR FIVE BATHROOM FIT-OUT IN KENT PROPERTY ‘The Tilebacker’ board manufactured by Marmox Limited, has been chosen by a specialist sub-contractor working on a very large residential property in Maidstone, to help create a total of five bathrooms and en-suite shower rooms.

With some 130m2 of wall area to address and 22mm thick structural ply already fixed in place as the substrate, it made practical and economic sense to switch to the new value-for-money alternative.

The lightweight boards are manufactured using an extruded polystyrene base, topped with a double layer of fibreglass mesh, embedded into a polymer cement surface. The boards are easy to cut and install on a full bed of adhesive for floors and walls, while plugs, screws and washers can be used for securing them over existing wooden or concrete substrates. In areas at risk from damp, Marmox Waterproof Tape can be employed to seal joints, while Marmox’s Reinforcing Tape will provide additional strength where The Tilebacker is being used in flooring build-ups. The low thermal transmittance of 0.034 W/mK will help reduce heat loss and control condensation. www.marmox.co.uk

53

PROJECT NEWS

054 ATB

NORDIC BROWN IN THE FOREST

N

ordic Brown pre-oxidised copper and larch cladding together define the natural character of a contemporary home, nestling amongst the treetops on the Island of Hirvensalo, part of the Turku archipelago in Finland. Locally-based Sigge Architects’ design sought to reconcile their client’s need for a permanent working home combined with the essential characteristics of a Summerhouse for leisure. The Finnish Summerhouse epitomises ‘mökkielämä’ or ‘cottage life’, with its tradition of treading softly on the land and respect for nature.

Restrained Palette - The three-storey building – known simply as ‘Villa 3 – was envisaged as a deceptively simple modern structure with clean lines and a certain stature. But application of a restrained palette of natural materials enables it to sit comfortably in its elevated location within a gently sloping forest. The new house is approached from the south. The Entrance Level contains a garage and private areas including office, bedroom, bathroom and – of course in Finland – a sauna.

54

Outside are extensive timber-decked terraces and a swimming pool. Service areas and storage are accommodated in the Lower Level. An open staircase leads from the entrance to the Upper Level: a fully open-plan living, cooking and dining space.

Here, extensive glazing opens onto timber-decked, glass balustraded balconies to three sides. The whole Upper Level commands stunning north and west views over the neighbouring villas and trees below, towards the sea and city of Turku beyond, while also enjoying southern glazing to catch the low sun.

The Upper Level is conceived as a distinct copperframed ‘box’ mass, oversailing the recessed Entrance Level ‘pedestal’. Here, Nordic Brown pre-oxidised copper was chosen, structured with vertical seams. It sits naturally alongside the larch batten cladding, which adds warmth, and responds to the exceptional natural surroundings.

Internally, fair-faced concrete surfaces and whitewashed ash have been used widely. (cont...)

055 ATB

55

PROJECT NEWS

056 ATB (cont...) Familiar Material - Sigge Architects CEO Pekka Mäki said: We have worked with Nordic Copper on other projects around Turku before. On Tys Ikituuri student housing, a 12-storey oval-plan tower, we experimented with lively abstract patterns using varying intensities of Nordic Green pre-patinated copper cassettes.

But for a single-family house – Villa Vaski – we found that Nordic Brown gave a natural dark brown that was both familiar and well-suited to its surroundings. The same is true for Villa L3, where the Nordic Brown will gradually age with dignity within the forest’.

Nordic Brown provides the same oxidised brown surface that otherwise develops over time in the environment.

The thickness of the oxide layer determines the colour of the surface finish, with darker or lighter (Nordic Brown Light) shades of brown. Nordic Brown gradually changes over time to a stable dark chocolate brown.

56

Living Copper Surfaces - The extensive Nordic Copper range also includes Nordic Standard ‘mill finish’ as well as Nordic Blue, Nordic Green and the latest Nordic Turquoise, developed with properties and colours based on the same brochantite mineralogy found in natural patinas all over the world. As well as the solid patina colours, ‘Living’ surfaces are available for each colour with other intensities of patina flecks revealing some of the dark oxidised background material.

Copper alloys are growing in popularity as well, including Nordic Bronze and Nordic Brass – which can also be supplied pre-weathered. The innovative Nordic Royal is an alloy of copper with aluminium and zinc, giving it a rich golden through-colour and making it very stable. It has a thin protective oxide layer containing all three alloy elements when produced. As a result, the surface retains its golden colour and simply loses some of its sheen over time, as the oxide layer thickens with exposure to the atmosphere to give a matt finish.

A growing series of ‘copper stories’ building studies exemplify the best in contemporary architecture and showcase the diversity of surfaces, forms and applications available with Nordic Copper today. For more information visit: www.nordiccopper.com or email: g.bell@aurubis.com

057 ATB

Photos – Antti Leino

57

PROJECT NEWS

RUNDUM ORIGINAL MEETS BAVARIAN BRIEF FOR CONTEMPORARY ELEGANCE Every timber door created here by Rundum Meir’s craftsmen and women is formed in a way that maximises consistency in the woodgrain across the width of the door for the ultimate end-result.

The company also provided the technology to automate the door operation too, utilising Rundum Meir’s sophisticated and reliable automation system. This will give the property owners long term peace of mind regarding operational reliability and security.

To find out more about Rundum Meir bespoke garage doors and how they can provide the ideal solution in outstanding contemporary architecture, visit www.rundum.co.uk A Rundum Meir slide sliding door spanning 11m has provided the ideal solution for a stunning contemporary new build dwelling in northern Bavaria. The architect-led project has created an extensive new home on a site near the town of Neumarkt adjacent to mature woodland.

058 ATB

Linear in its form, the property’s main three storey block features large areas of full-height glazing to the upper floors which is shielded by external timber fins, assisting with shading but also adding a natural aesthetic feature.

These timber elements blend comfortably with the local stone masonry to achieve superb aesthetics and make this property a stunning example of modern European architecture.

And one of the most visible timber elements is the simple, elegant 11 m wide single direction Rundum Original side sliding door made from Larch.

The brief was to provide a door that capable of spanning a four-bay garage and be consistent with the rest of the timber used throughout the property. This was perfectly suited to Rundum Meir, who manufacture every garage door specifically to meet a project’s requirements, which in this case was to use sustainably sourced Larch. This door was hand-made at Rundum Meir’s manufacturing centre near Munich.

58

FLIP-LID UNITS HELP POWER WORLD-CLASS MATCHDAY HOSPITALITY AT NEWLY REDEVELOPED LORD’S Pop Up Power Supplies® has provided in-ground, flip lid power units as part of the £52m redevelopment of Lord’s Cricket Ground. This extensive development scheme has involved the construction of the Compton and Edrich stands at the Nursery end to increase the ground’s capacity by 2,600 up to 31,600.

as much as possible. These flip-lid units are submerged in the ground to provide food stall operators and caterers with access to power sockets on-demand, minimising trip hazards as only short cables protrude and enable a continuous power supply to be delivered as the lid can be locked down for maximum safety.

With matchday hospitality of significant importance to the visitor experience, the scheme’s designers have ensured that outdoor areas are used to their full potential. This has been facilitated by five PUPS02-6060 in-ground power units which have been installed in the food village and Nursery Ground areas.

A mix of 16, 32 and 63 amp configurations were specified for the in-ground units installed at Lord’s to accommodate the specific requirements of the spaces. The units’ flip lids are designed to match the surrounding surface to minimise their visual impact and mean they go virtually unnoticed when not in use. www.popuppower.co.uk

They are a key part of the infrastructure that enables high quality food and drink to be served to large matchday crowds in outdoor spaces – made all the more important as a result of the Covid pandemic which has increased the public appetite to stay outdoors

059 ATB

59

PROJECT NEWS

MAGPLY A1 BOARDS SHEATH HYBRID ELEMENTS TO MODULAR HOTEL BUILD IN KENT The development of a 140 bed Hampton by Hilton Hotel in Ashford, Kent, features Magply A1 Euroclass non-combustible boards for sheathing vertical and horizontal sections around the six-storey modular volumetric structure, offering excellent strength and durability as well as Class O fire resistance and good acoustic properties.

The design made use of in-situ reinforced concrete elements as well as steel and timber framing for the parapet wall at roof level, both of which have been sheathed using Magply boards.

Magply MgO boards present a fire-safe and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional plywood or OSB products. The unique production process minimises chloride content, enhancing both stability and long-term durability. The different thicknesses of panel are also widely used as a substrate board for the direct application of proprietary render systems, as well as for flooring and flat or pitched roof build-ups. www.magply.co.uk

060 ATB MARMOX TILEBACKER BOARD USED FOR FIVE BATHROOM FIT-OUT IN KENT PROPERTY ‘The Tilebacker’ board manufactured by Marmox Limited, has been chosen by a specialist sub-contractor working on a very large residential property in Maidstone, to help create a total of five bathrooms and en-suite shower rooms.

With some 130m2 of wall area to address and 22mm thick structural ply already fixed in place as the substrate, it made practical and economic sense to switch to the new value-for-money alternative.

The lightweight boards are manufactured using an extruded polystyrene base, topped with a double layer of fibreglass mesh, embedded into a polymer cement surface. The boards are easy to cut and install on a full bed of adhesive for floors and walls, while plugs, screws and washers can be used for securing them over existing wooden or concrete substrates. In areas at risk from damp, Marmox Waterproof Tape can be employed to seal joints, while Marmox’s Reinforcing Tape will provide additional strength where The Tilebacker is being used in flooring build-ups.

The low thermal transmittance of 0.034 W/mK will help reduce heat loss and control condensation. www.marmox.co.uk

60

JUMBO JOB FOR ONE CAN The Strand Leisure Pool, a popular lido in Gillingham, Kent has just had a makeover, with the help of Bradite’s One Can, to celebrate its 125th anniversary. A main attraction is the revitalised elephant slides, which are now proudly sporting the NHS logo and a rainbow pattern, replacing their previous bright pink exterior.

Kelly Holmes, senior painter at Medway Norse Ltd explained that the all-in-one product, which combines primer, undercoat, and topcoat, was “ideal for the job” and that they “used seven different colours on the elephants and couldn’t have done it without a waterbased product.” Bradite One Can is virtually odourless, it is quick-drying and touch dry in 30 minutes making it re-coatable in one hour.

The paint works both as an adhesion primer and sealer, is anti-corrosive and can be used on a wide range of surfaces. It is available in both eggshell and matt finish and a full range of BS, RAL and NCS colours. Not only were the elephants given a new lease of life, but One Can was also used to repaint safety bridges yellow, a seating area near the poolside and the lido’s exterior sign. www.bradite.com

061 ATB

CONTEMPORARY APARTMENTS INCORPORATE PROFLOOR LEVELLING SYSTEM An attractive new urban regeneration scheme has creatively reimagined the former office headquarters of Burger King into 48 contemporary apartments. The development led by Vivant Homes includes a mix of studio, one and two bedroom apartments within the 6-storey building, offering the very best in open-plan apartment living.

Part of a two-phase development, the first phase of The Park House Apartments, Bath Road, Slough, will benefit from an optimal acoustic performance between floors thanks to the innovative Profloor Levelling System from The A. Proctor Group. The initial phase comprised 24 apartments over three floors, with eight on each floor. For conversions and new build developments of flats where impact and airborne sound reduction is mandatory, the Profloor Levelling System is ideal, easy to install, and enables developers and contractors to meet the current legislative performance requirements.

Profloor Levelling System was specifically developed to allow a level finished floor to be installed on a cambered, stepped, or uneven sub-floor. The floor is levelled by inserting packers in each levelling base to adjust the level of the timber battens, and create a level finished floor, with no need for wet trades in the process. www.proctorgroup.com

61

PROJECT NEWS

HEAVY 3 SLATE USED ON SCOTTISH WHISKY DISTILLERY

A

number of pre-existing farm structures have been reconstructed using CUPA PIZARRAS Heavy 3 slate in order to house a new Scottish whisky distillery, Ardross. Existing stone and slate from the location’s original, dilapidated farm buildings were salvaged and reused to rebuild much of the walls and roof of the development.

However, Heavy 3 was selected to maintain a uniform aesthetic where the original slate could not be re-used.

Located in the scenic Averon Valley, the £15 million project, which began in November 2017, involved the refurbishment and extension of an old farm, retaining the original 19th-century steading buildings, farmhouse and cottages.

The 50-acre site also encompasses Loch Dubh. The completed distillery now produces single malt whisky, while a gin still and botanic mixing lab are housed in a separate building on-site. In addition, the location also includes a tun room, mash house and mill room, and two detached cottages for offices and staff accommodation.

CUPA PIZARRAS Heavy 3 slate was specified for use on the project in conjunction with the architect’s design, as it was an ideal match characteristically to the Ballachulish slate used on the original farm buildings.

This older slate had already been salvaged on part of the development and used to rebuild a proportion of the roof; however, additional slates were required to complete the refurbishment.

062 ATB

62

Not only is Heavy 3 visibly similar to traditional Scottish Ballachulish, it is the perfect strength to withstand extreme Scottish weather. Aesthetically, it is a blue black in colour with a slight gritty texture and it also features well-defined parallel lines that are visible on the cleavage surfaces.

The product is slated by CUPA PIZARRAS from San Pedro quarry in Spain, where two thicknesses are produced, 3.5m to 7-8m; it is this thick variant that works well against the high wind speeds and driving rains of Scotland. As the Ardross whisky distillery is a large site, it took contractor Ian Sharpe of Wyvis Roofing, 14 months to complete the full refurbishment. During that time, Ian worked closely alongside the consultant engineers and architects to fulfil the design requirements and bring the vision of the project to life. “ We always recommend CUPA PIZARRAS Heavy 3 slate because it not only comes from a good geographical area, but it can withstand the tough weather conditions - which is really needed in Scotland,” commented Ian. “I’ve worked with Heavy 3 slate before and it’s easy to handle and install. CUPA PIZARRAS are also always on hand to ensure that the installation runs smoothly.” For more information on Heavy 3, please visit: https://www.cupapizarras.com/uk/heavy3/

063 ATB

63

PROJECT NEWS

CRITTALL MEETS STRICT CONSERVATION REQUIREMENTS A former north London paints warehouse has been transformed into a mixed development of apartments and commercial premises with Crittall windows, doors and screens featuring throughout the project.

Bentley House in Dalston in the borough of Hackney dates from the 1950s when it was occupied by Leyland Paints. The building now houses 18 apartments on the first, second and third floors including a new roof-top extension with private terraces providing views over the London skyline.

Mezzanine levels within the ground floor plus a rear extension create more than 900 square metres of flexible workspace and a retail unit. Work on the building, which is situated within the De Beauvoir conservation

064 ATB

64

area, had to satisfy the requirements of the local planning authority that insisted that any amendments to the exterior elevations should be handled sensitively.

MAP Architects specified Crittall to retain the industrial character of the building and its distinctive, black framed fenestration. Both W20 and MW40 windows were installed together with Janson ECO 60 CF doors. Internal spaces were divided using InnerVision screens.

Glazing varied from 16mm to 35mm and included solar control, acoustic solar control, clear sandblast and opaque depending on requirements. www.crittall-windows.co.uk

MAGPLY PARTNERS WITH PROKOL TO GIVE FIREPROOF ROOFING BUILD-UP A Dutch manufacturer of fireproof flat roof coatings is recommending IPP Limited’s Magply boards as the ideal substrate on which to install its liquid applied treatments: based not only on their fire rating and stability, but also because of the material’s flatness.

A major installation is currently underway in Basildon, Essex, on an industrial building known as ‘The Gloucesters', where a local building company, Davis Bros, is overlaying the old ‘northlight’ roof over its own premises and that of its neighbours with a Prokol specification that includes 6mm Magply.

Prokol UK offers training, project management and other support to clients across the construction industry with systems certified for flooring, tanking, sealing chemical bunds and even encapsulating asbestos sheeting, as well as for flat roofing – where it can provide guarantee periods of 30 or even 50 years. The roof structure is formed from concrete planks over steel trusses and has an existing felt waterproofing system nearing the end of its life. This is being overlaid with Soudal Foam and 100mm of Xtratherm foil-faced insulation, onto which the 6mm Magply boards are bonded using a polyurethane adhesive. The joints are sealed with Prokol’s special high elongation tape before the MonoSeal top layer is applied. This hydrophobic pure polymer waterproofing has the potential to accommodate 1500 % elongation. www.magply.co.uk

065 ATB

CURVED MARMOX MULTIBOARDS FACILITATE CYLINDRICAL FAÇADE FOR KENT PROPERTY The developer building a private property in the beautiful Kent town of Westerham, near Sevenoaks, has made full use of the flexible version from the Marmox Multiboard range in creating a two storey, drum-shaped elevation that is being finished using a proprietary render system.

While standard Marmox Multiboards are formed from rigid sheets of extruded polystyrene (XPS) faced on both sides with a layer of polymer modified concrete encapsulating glass fibre reinforcement, the Curved version features 2mm wide slices through 75% of their depth, at 20 mm intervals. This enables the 1250 x 600mm boards to be bent down to radii as tight as 200mm if fixed so that the slices close together.

Even tighter radii can be achieved by folding the boards so that the ‘teeth’ open up. They can either be fixed against a blockwork of other solid surface using a continuous coating of tile cement or secured to timber battens at 300mm centres using screws and the special Marmox washers. This flexibility makes Curved Multiboards ideal for creating archways, curving partitions and cubicles or even moulded tiled seats. www.marmox.co.uk

65

PROJECT NEWS

PROFAB ACCESS PROVES ITS WORTH AT ONE BISHOPSGATE PLAZA

S

ituated in the centre of the City of London, One Bishopsgate Plaza is one of the first high-rise residential and hospitality developments to be built in the capital for a number of years. The flagship 43-storey tower will house London’s first luxury 5* Pan Pacific Hotel, which will comprise of 237 rooms, an indoor swimming pool and a 370 capacity Pacific Ballroom.

From levels 21 to 41, the development will house 160 luxury one, two and three bed residential apartments, or ‘Sky Residences’, which will boast panoramic views of some

066 ATB

66

of London’s most iconic landmarks. As part of the construction process, over 200 steel riser doors from Profab Access in a range of door leaf configurations and sizes from its 4000 Series, combined with over 300 bespoke ceiling panels from its 7000 Series, are being installed throughout the entire tower by BDL Dry Lining.

Specified due to their impressive seamless integration into masonry walls, shaft walls and drywall partitions, the riser doors provide discreet and secure access that won’t impact on the overall interior design scheme of the development, a main consideration for the public and private areas of the hotel.

067 ATB

The 4000 Series’ third party CERTIFIRE bidirectional certification from Warrington Fire was also a leading factor for specification, as the riser doors are fire tested from both sides to two hours. The bespoke Profab Access 7000 Series Ceiling Access Panels have also been specified for installation throughout the hotel bedrooms and communal areas to provide concealed and maintenance free access to the ceiling shafts.

Due to the significant size of the ceiling access panels, which span up to 1100mm x 1800mm, Profab Access developed a bespoke additional safety system that featured a one side lift out and one side swing/push latch mechanism. The innovative design assisted BDL Dry Lining’s team of engineers in stopping the heavy doors swinging from the ceiling, while also enabling the panel design to work within a reduced space.

The riser doors are also 35dB acoustic rated, smoke sealed and airtight to Part L. In the event of a fire, the doors will maintain their frame and integrity for up to two hours, limiting the spread of fire and transmission of radiant heat for this period of time. The doors’ intumescent smoke seals also enables occupants to safely exit the building.

Manufactured in accordance with ISO 9001, the 4000 Series Riser Doors and 7000 Series Ceiling Access Panels can be specified and installed in a range of configurations to meet each project’s specific measurements and requirements. www.profabaccess.com

67

PROJECT NEWS

HANGING GARDENS AT THE JAKOB FACTORY IN SAIGON

A

longside the growth in sustainable building design, green walls are increasingly being seen in many of the world’s towns and cities, with the facades absorbing carbon dioxide, binding dust and air pollutants, dampening noise and reducing energy consumption thanks to a combination of shading and water evaporation.

In the north of Saigon, Vietnam's financial centre and largest city, Jakob’s new production facility is one such building. The architects (rollimarchini AG in Switzerland and G8A in Vietnam) developed a concept that would meet both climatic and sustainability challenges, using a combination of modern materials and local traditional building techniques.

Incorporating naturally ventilated and shaded areas as well as simple fans, the design also incorporated green walls, with planters suspended from stainless steel wire ropes and nets. The green walls not only shade the interior spaces and filter pollutants from the air, but they also lower the building temperature through evaporation.

068 ATB

68

The vegetation of the green walls grows in planters that extend along the entire length of the buildings & facades, with over six kilometres of diagonally running stainless steel wire ropes supporting up to nine levels of planters.

All the structural components are made of type 316 stainless steel, which offers great durability against corrosion. In addition to the structural elements, the green facade contains a fully automatic irrigation and fertilization system. Buildings that are greened and ventilated in this way reduce energy costs and emissions.

The green wall not only fulfils its functional purpose for the Jakob Rope Systems manufacturing site, but it is also a great example of how sustainable design can improve working conditions and lessen ecological impact. www.mma-architectural.co.uk

069 ATB

69

PROJECT NEWS

STO CREATES STRIKING INSULATED BRICK SLIP FACADE FOR LONDON RESIDENTIAL REFURBISHMENT PROJECT

070 ATB

A

combination of external wall insulation and resin brick slips from Sto has helped create a thermally efficient and visually striking appearance for a £7.8m residential refurbishment project in London.

Located on the Stockwell Park estate, Tyler House now benefits from the use of Sto resin brick slips which have been installed as the final façade finish, onto the company’s StoTherm Mineral K external wall insulation system. The Tyler House building is organised around a central courtyard, and houses 48 flats with one, two, three or four bedrooms.

70

“The building underwent a significant amount of refurbishment in order to improve the living conditions of the residents, and providing effective thermal insulation was a key element in that process,” explains Richard Watson of project architects Rock Townsend.

“The Sto solution allowed us to provide that insulation. We also wanted to add 13 additional flats and the Sto brick slips gave us the opportunity to create a dramatic new appearance for the existing parts of the building which would contrast with the rooftop extension.” The Sto materials were installed by Sto applicator Regency Plastering of Dartford.

“The residents remained in their homes throughout, and there were no problems in installing the external insulation and brick slips whilst they were there,” explains Regency’s Paul Brown.

The BBA-certified StoTherm Mineral K insulation system is ideal for refurbishment projects such as Tyler House. Its external installation means that insulation performance can be substantially upgraded without the loss of any living space inside the premises. Comprising mineral-fibre boards which deliver high thermal performance and unrivalled fire protection, the system also incorporates reinforcing layers to provide additional impact resistance.

They can be used to match the appearance of surrounding buildings without compromising on thermal insulation, or as in this case, to create dramatic and individual facades. For Tyler House they were specified in a white brick slip colour which contrasts with the new rooftop extension.

Highly resistant to impact and mechanical stress, the Sto resin brick slips carry the backing of BBA approval and are available in more than 80 colours, or can be custom-made in almost any colour or size.

071 ATB

The refurbishment of Tyler House represents one of the final phases in a 15-year project carried out by Network Homes, which has seen the transformation and regeneration of the wider Stockwell Park Estate. www.sto.co.uk

For this project the insulation was installed using StoLevell Uni adhesive and supplementary fixings to create a strong and reliable bond with the substrate. Designed specifically for use with Sto’s external wall insulation systems and StoRend systems, the Sto resin brick slips used on Tyler House are manufactured from a rugged and durable synthetic render, and combine a realistic simulated brick appearance with reliable, weatherproof properties.

71

T60

®

Thermal Break System

Crittall’s superb thermally broken steel window & door system ingeniously blends style and performance. The T60 stepped profile faithfully replicates traditional steel windows.

T60 is ideal for historic buildings and contemporary or traditional style new build projects.

• Advanced high density thermal barrier technology • Bespoke design • Industry leading U Values • Accommodates double or triple glazed insulating glass units • Fully welded, seamless frame construction • Duralife® architectural grade polyester powder coated in any RAL or BS colour www.crittall-windows.co.uk

t: +44 (0) 1376 530 800

e: hq@crittall-windows.co.uk VISION | INNOVATION | SOLUTIONS www.cri all-windows.co.uk