Building Innovations, December 2023

b BUILDING INNOVATIONS

A MAGAZINE FOR ARCHITECTS DEC 2023

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BUILDING INNOVATIONS CONTENTS: VISION - PAGE 4 NEWS - PAGE 14 INTERIOR DESIGN - PAGE 20 DOORS, WINDOWS & GLAZING - PAGE 36 ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL - PAGE 44 VIEWPOINT - PAGE 50 PROJECT INSIGHT - PAGE 54

about

Some of the colour photography used in Building Innovations is provided and paid for by contributors. The publishers do not accept liability for errors that may appear in the publication. This edition is dedicated to our much-loved friend and colleague, Mike Mahon. Always one of us.

No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the consent of the publisher. Published by L2 Architectural Media Ltd, Parkfield House, Park Street, Stafford ST17 4AL Tel: 01785 291442 www.L2architectural.media

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VISION

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VISION

Latest Phase Of The Shaftesbury Theatre Transformation Completes The Shaftesbury Theatre has completed the latest phase of its 10-year transformation programme. A new bar and events space has been created at basement level below a brand-new public space delivered as part of the London Borough of Camden's West End Project.

These latest updates are part of a masterplan conceived by Bennetts Associates, working with the theatre's owners, Theatre of Comedy Limited. Completed phases include the award-winning flytower extension, upgrading auditorium ventilation, remodelling of the bars, increasing numbers of toilets, reseating the main auditorium at stalls level, and providing lift access to the stalls for the first time in the theatre's history.

Each phase has been delivered with minimal disruption to the theatre's busy performance schedule. Dating from 1911 and with a seating capacity of 1400, the Grade II Listed Shaftesbury Theatre is one of the West End's major receiving houses for large-scale musical theatre. (cont...)

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VISION

(cont...) Like most theatres of its time, the Bertie Crewe-designed theatre maximised its auditorium footprint on a tight plot, leaving little space for the bars and facilities modern audiences have come to expect. The original design reflected the norms of Edwardian society, dividing the audience by social class and providing separate entrances and stairs for each group. The result was a building with too many stairs and too few bars and toilets. Bennetts Associates' design enables better utilisation of space, removing unnecessary stairs and using the space gained to create improved visitor facilities and accessibility at every level. The theatre's stage and its stalls are below ground.

With nearly half the audience seated at this level and no dedicated foyer they were poorly served by bars and toilets. As part of Bennetts Associates masterplan, a subterranean extension has now been created to provide additional space for a new bar, toilets and events space which is stretched out under the pavement above. The road in front of the theatre was closed to improve the public realm as part of Camden's West End Project. This has resulted in a brandnew public space in front of the theatre known as Princes Circus.

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VISION

The new below ground extension benefits from new rooflights integrated into the paving, whilst the ground floor foyers spill out into the new space with all-day seating. In addition to this, a feature staircase has been added which improves connectivity with the basement bar and creates a new architectural feature. The architectural approach taken by Bennetts Associates has been to create new spaces with a contemporary feel, exposing the ribbed concrete structure in the new basement bar and contrasting this with the brickwork of the existing theatre's old basement wall. The colour palette of sage green and dark timber reflects the original colours which would have been used as part of the theatre's original interior scheme back in 1911.

Simon Erridge, Director at Bennetts Associates, said: "This has been a significant project that we've been working closely with the client on for 10 years. This latest phase has seen the remodelling of the space to bring it up to date for the modern-day visitor, while remaining sensitive to the theatre's original features. The theatre now offers a wider range of facilities for the public visiting and also expands the services and activities that the building can offer in the future." www.bennettsassociates.com

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VISION

BakerHicks Provide Multi-Disciplinary Expertise For New State-Of-The-Art Allander Leisure Centre

The new £42.5m Allander Leisure Centre in Bearsden, East Dunbartonshire, has officially opened its doors to the public, following completion of the first phase of works. The state-of-the-art facility benefitted from civil & structural and mechanical & electrical engineering expertise from BakerHicks, the multi-disciplinary design, engineering and project delivery company.

thick concrete slab to dampen the effects.

The purpose of the building necessitated large open areas in the pool and sports halls, and in other areas such as the studio spaces and main reception area. To achieve this, BakerHicks’ structural team used large-scale steel long-span beams of up to 38 metres.

The new centre boasts two swimming pools, a fully-equipped gym, accompanying dance & exercise studios and spin rooms, plus an eight-court multi-sports hall, changing facilities and café. The main building also accommodates a range of support facilities for adults with learning disabilities. In addition, there is a hydrotherapy pool for use by people with learning disabilities, families with young babies, and people with mobility issues.

The stacked nature of the building added in an extra complexity, with, for example, one of the walls of the sports hall situated directly above the hydrotherapy pool. To enable the sports hall to have sufficient structural support, a series of transfer beams and structures was used, allowing the first-floor columns to be supported by heavy steel beams at first-floor level, whilst retaining the open-span area required for the hydrotherapy pool.

With the new facility being built next to the existing leisure centre, and water courses surrounding the site, the overall footprint of the project was restricted. As a result, a stacked design was preferred, with the sports hall situated on the first floor over the pool hall.

Recognising the challenges this created, BakerHicks used 3D modelling to review and test the design and structures from the likelihood of vibration caused by hundreds of gym-goers’ feet thudding on the wooden floors on a daily basis. This meant increasing part of the composite floor slab from the 150mm thickness used elsewhere to a 240mm-

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With sustainability and reducing carbon emissions on East Dunbartonshire Council’s priority list, BakerHicks’ mechanical and electrical team specified high-efficiency plant, ensuring the centre is as efficient as possible by reducing the overall amount of energy it uses.

VISION

Incorporating photovoltaics and CHP into the design further enhanced this. In addition, utilities were a key consideration throughout the project, with the high-pressure water pipes that supply the city of Glasgow being located on the site’s boundary. All the utilities needed to remain live throughout, both those surrounding the site and those supplying the existing leisure centre, which remained operational throughout the project.

The team designed a new substation within the site to power the new facility plus electric vehicle charge points, requiring extensive planning to work with the utility constraints and ensure it did not become classed as high voltage.

Neal Shaw, associate engineer at BakerHicks and civil & structural lead on the project, says: “This is a fantastic project that will provide its local community with exceptional sports and leisure facilities. Any project of this type is complex in its design due to the mixed and highly specialised uses of the building and the large open spaces this requires."

The next phase involves the decommission and demolition of the existing centre, with phase three seeing the installation of a new fabric-clad Sports Dome with two indoor football pitches and a tennis court, plus rapid electric vehicle charging points.

BakerHicks are also currently working on the design of the new Blairgowrie Recreation and Leisure Centre, which incorporates Passivhaus design, and are providing civil & structural design for the new Eastwood Leisure Centre. www.bakerhicks.com

“Our previous experience in leisure centre design came to the fore and this is a project we can be really proud of. In addition, from RIBA 4 we were working in the midst of a global pandemic, which, on a project of this size, presented its own unique challenges. The whole project team really came together and, working closely with the local Council, we have created a legacy that we and the local people can be proud of.”

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VISION

Dudleys Retained To Support Leeds Bradford Airport £100M Terminal Improvements

Dudleys Consulting Engineers has been retained to advise on structural and civil engineering matters to support the £100 million upgrade plans for Leeds Bradford Airport's (LBA). LBA announced the investment last week with a view to improving the passenger experience and unlocking major economic growth potential for the airport. The first phase will deliver a 102,000 sq ft, three storey extension to the east side of the existing terminal.

It will provide a new baggage reclaim hall in the basement, a new arrivals hall on the ground floor, and an extended departure lounge on the first floor. LBA has also committed to a major refurbishment programme for the existing buildings with a new security hall and duty-free area. Significant improvements will be made to the seating, security, baggage reclaim and immigration areas as well as shops, amenity and food outlets with additional aircraft stands.

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Dudleys has been supporting LBA for more than fifteen years, advising across the entire estate including airside aprons, building alterations, car parking areas, masts, and tunnels as well as the public buildings. The award-winning practice has worked with LBA since 2018 to specifically support design proposals for the extension through planning processes.

Dudleys is working alongside main contractor, Farrans Construction and Architect Millar Management & Design to deliver both phases using sustainable methods of construction. Established more than 15 years ago in Leeds, Dudleys is an award-winning, privately-owned consultancy. It employs a team of 25 highly skilled people offering structural and civil engineering advice across the UK and operates in all key real estate sectors including residential, industrial, commercial, retail and education.

As well as Leeds Bradford Airport, long standing clients include prominent developer CEG, Bettys & Taylors of Harrogate, Leeds United Football Club, Henry Boot Construction and Unilever UK. www.dudleys.co.uk

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VISION

New Green Pearls® Member In South Tyrol: OLM Nature Escape, The First Energy Self-Sufficient Eco Aparthotel In The Alps Opening in December 2023, The circular building of the OLM Nature Escape is more than just an architectural highlight. The "Casa Clima Nature" certified building also sets new standards in terms of sustainability. In addition to the use of regional larch wood as the main building material, the aparthotel produces all the energy for the supply of the apartments itself. As of December 2023, guests will find 33 luxurious eco ApartSuites - some with their own sauna and free-standing bathtub. Green Pearls® is pleased to be a partner right from the start.

Nature recreation, wellness and outdoor activities in Sand in Taufers, South Tyrol Sand in Taufers is a popular all year-round holiday destination in the Italian Alps. It’s suitable both for winter sports (snowshoe hiking, cross-country skiing and skiing in the Speikboden ski resort) and for hiking and cycling in the summer. The area is home to a number of water treasures, such as rivers, lakes, waterfalls, glaciers, and springs. For those who want to relax and enjoy the fresh mountain air and spring water among forests, mountains, and meadows, this is the perfect vacation destination. OLM means "alp" in South Tyrolean.

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VISION

Eco Apart Suites with Mini Spa The Apart Suites in the distinctive circular building range in size from 2 to 6 persons. All of them have a fully equipped kitchen and some have a small private spa area with a private sauna. All guests have access to the indoor pool, outdoor pool, natural swimming pond, PRENN° restaurant, and a cozy lobby with a fireplace.

Maximum Freedom Breakfast is included, but beyond that, guests are free to choose whether they want to cook for themselves or take advantage of the catering options offered by the house. At OLM Nature Escape the guests are supposed to feel at one with themselves and at the same time understand themselves as part of the cycle of nature. www.greenpearls.com

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NEWS

TREMCO WINS IN HEALTHCARE - CARE HOMES CATEGORY AT THE CFJ AWARDS 2023 Tremco, a brand of Tremco CPG UK, won in the Healthcare - Care Homes Category alongside Beveridge Flooring Ltd and Danfloor UK at the CFJ Awards 2023. The CFJ Awards, an annual celebration of excellence within the flooring industry, honours outstanding achievements from the past year.

The award-winning project harnessed the power of Tremco’s full system solution where three Tremco products ES100 Damp-Proof Membrane, CS190 Gritty Primer and SX300-NA Smoothing Compound were applied. Tremco’s ES100 has been developed specifically for suppressing residual moisture in concrete and sand/cement subfloors. Its single-coat liquid application guarantees a reliable surface damp-proof membrane, echoing our position as the original founders of damp-proof membranes.

The project also benefitted from Tremco’s CS190 Gritty Primer which provides a textured surface, giving an excellent bonding surface for selflevelling/smoothing compounds and screeds. The smoothing compound which formed part of this system is SX300-NA which is a is a two-part general purpose smoothing underlayment designed for interior applications.

Characterised by its rapid setting and curing time, SX300-NA enables fast track programmes, minimising disruptions. www.tremco-europe.com/en-gb

MAPEREND RENDER SYSTEM AWARDED BBA CERTIFICATION Mapei has now received BBA Certification for its Maperend render system.

Maperend is a thin coat render for use as a ventilated and drained exterior wall system onto timber and steel-frame buildings, and is directly applied to Knauf Aquapanel Exterior Cement Board.

During the BBA assessment process, key factors tested include mechanical resistance and stability, and safety in case of fire - the system is rated A2-s1,d0, in accordance with BS EN 13501-1 : 2018. This classification applies to the complete Maperend colour range. During the rigorous assessment process, the render system was tested across several key areas, including its safety, quality and compliance for use on external facades and its suitability for use in exposure zones up to and including the ‘severe’ wind-driven rain index category.

Mapei also holds BBA Certification for its Mapetherm EPS and Mapetherm EPS PLUS EWI systems. All EWI systems, according to the BBA, also comply with NHBC Standards 2021. www.mapei.co.uk

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JAMES JONES & SONS LTD ACQUIRES LANCASHIRE SAWS LTD James Jones & Sons Ltd today announced that it has completed the acquisition of Lancashire Saws Ltd, a leading bandsaw blade manufacturer and saw servicing provider.

James Jones & Sons has had a long standing relationship with Lancashire Saws and this acquisition provides both companies with a strong platform for further development.

“We are delighted to have concluded this transaction,” commented Tom Bruce-Jones, Chairman of James Jones & Sons Ltd, “and are really pleased that the existing management team are staying on within the Group to provide continuity and the same quality of service to all customers, facilitate the integration and to help realise our long-term strategic plans.” www.jamesjones.co.uk

SIKA BECOMES EARLY ADOPTER OF THE CODE FOR CONSTRUCTION PRODUCT INFORMATION Global building product manufacturer Sika has become an early adopter of the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) which has been published to drive higher standards in the presentation of construction product information within the manufacturing industry. Globally renowned for high quality construction solutions and with a commitment to raising industry standards, Sika is one of the first product manufacturers to have achieved CCPI verification of its first product set for Single Ply Roof systems. The company maintains a strong focus on transparency and by committing to the code it will provide further independent assurance and greater confidence in the information associated to its CCPI-verified product-set.

TFor more information visit the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) www.sika.co.uk/roofing

NEWS

GEZE UK CELEBRATES 160 YEARS WITH BUBBLES, BUNTING AND BALLOONS GEZE, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of innovative and modern door, window and safety technology has been celebrating 160 years in business across all of its subsidiaries around the world throughout 2023. GEZE UK invited all colleagues across our 8 offices nationwide to join in the celebration and have some fun. Each office was decorated with bunting and balloons and staff were sent cakes and biscuits iced with GEZE 160 years as well as bubbles to blow and other goodies. Under the motto hundred + sixty years young GEZE has been celebrating across the globe. In addition a microsite www.160years.geze.com has been created detailing the company’s history. www.geze.co.uk

KELLER SPONSORS BKNC’S CHARITY GOLF DAY Keller Kitchens was proud to sponsor the recent BKNC charity golf day at Owestry Golf Club, where former Ryder Cup star and Major winner, Ian Woosnam, started his golf career. The annual golf day was in aid of Prostate Cancer UK, a charity which was chosen after a member of the team experienced early detection and an intervention which, thankfully, led to a positive outcome.

BKNC Managing Director, Harry Ruler, commented, “We were delighted with the turn-out of client and suppliers alike and a great day was had by all. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men affecting 1 in 8.

52,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year in the UK alone. Money raised on the day will help fund lifesaving research to find better ways to diagnose men sooner. If you would like to donate, you can still do so via the following link https://www.justgiving.com/page/bknc-1692180505067 www.kellerkitchens.com

DOMUS VENTILATION: A SINGLE SOURCE SUPPLIER, FOR MAXIMUM EFFICIENCY With its extensive range of market-leading ventilation systems, products and accessories designed to work in harmony, Domus Ventilation is in the enviable position of providing customers with a single source for all their residential ventilation requirements. A new short video has been uploaded to its website that clearly explains the benefits of this approach for customers.

Domus Ventilation takes a whole house approach to ventilation, with mechanical extract appliances, ducting and accessories designed and third party tested for endto-end system performance. Established over 30 years’ ago, Domus Ventilation built its reputation for quality on its ducting systems in the early years. Today, Domus rigid ducting is available in six different profiles, with high efficiency duct bends, supported by patented duct insulation, and sound attenuation components, for a complete duct system solution. www.domusventilation.co.uk

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JAMES JONES & SONS PROVIDES DUAL CERTIFICATION FOR ALL TIMBER PRODUCTS James Jones & Sons has announced that from October 2023, all timber and co-products supplied by the company will be dual certified as FSC and PEFC. This includes all timber delivered from that date, regardless of what date it was produced.

Graham Blyth, Sales Director at James Jones & Sons, said “The dual certification offers our customers a greater choice when buying sustainable timber.

The Soil Association, as our certification body, fully approved our ability to offer all our timber and co-products as dual FSC and PEFC certified. Our customers can continue to sell their timber as FSC certified but will now also have the choice to stock and sell as PEFC certified should their customers require this”. www.jamesjones.co.uk

IDEAL HEATING & ACV LAUNCH LOW CARBON SYSTEMS CPD AT CIBSE BUILD2PERFORM LIVE Groupe Atlantic companies Ideal Heating – Commercial Products and ACV UK will be exhibiting together at this year’s CIBSE Build2Perform Live event, 5-6th December at London Excel, on stand 206. As part of their Experts Together campaign, both companies will be showcasing their range of commercial heating and hot water solutions and will be presenting a new CIBSE accredited CPD – ‘Low carbon systems: appliances and applications using heat pump technology’.

The new CPD is the first one to be developed jointly between Ideal Heating – Commercial Products and ACV UK and follows on from the recent announcement of a £60m investment programme at Groupe Atlantic’s manufacturing site in Hull to further its development of innovative low carbon technologies. As well as covering the principles underpinning the mechanics and operation of a heat pump system, the new CPD will also look at how commercial monobloc air source heat pumps can be best used with other technologies including direct electric.

For those not able to attend the CPD presentation at Build2Perform Live, it can be booked through https://idealcommercialboilers.com/ cpd-courses and delivered online or in person. For more information on CIBSE Build2Perform Live, plus to register for free attendance, go to www.build2perform.co.uk. For more information on Ideal Heating – Commercial Products, visit www.idealcommercialheating.co.uk and for ACV UK go to www.acv.com/gb

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NEWS

NEW TRAINEES ON BOARD AT COWIE PLANT MARKING OVER 40 YEARS OF APPRENTICESHIPS Wood panel manufacturer, West Fraser, has marked over 40 years of training, development and supporting young apprentices in the surrounding area, by welcoming three new trainees to the business. The three apprentices have begun their first year of West Fraser’s industry leading four-year apprenticeship programme at its Cowie plant, as part of the Stirlingshire employer’s longestablished syllabus, which sees apprentices take periods of on-the-job training at West Fraser.

Kerr McQueen, Daniel White and Nathan Reilly have all joined the team and will be working as a mechanical apprentice, electrical apprentice and process apprentice respectively – with the latter overseeing the process of manufacturing at the site. With over 100 apprentices having come through the business across 40 years, West Fraser has always had a strong commitment towards supporting trainees, helping to build skills and provide a clear pathway to a career within the sector.

Ashley Mitchell, HR manager at the West Fraser plant in Cowie, said: “West Fraser recognises the importance of hands-on experience for those starting out in work, so providing an opportunity to educate and develop young people to tackle the skill gaps within our industry remains a priority for us. “With over 40 years of experience in the developing and supporting young apprentices, our well-rounded programme is a fantastic way of training our apprentices on the varied work systems that we have in place and offers a clear path on which to progress at West Fraser. https://uk.westfraser.com

RECTICEL'S EUROTHANE® GP AMONG FIRST BUILDING PRODUCTS TO BE CCPI VERIFIED Recticel Insulation is delighted to announce that its Eurothane® GP PIR board has become one of the first UK construction products to receive Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) accreditation. The verification helps product users to be assured data associated with Eurothane® GP is accurate, upto-date, clear, accessible and unambiguous. This information is crucial in assisting customers to make more informed decisions in respect of product specification. It will also help improve building standards due to products being used safely and appropriately.

Paul Simpson, Commercial Director UK & Ireland at Recticel said: "The CCPI accreditation for our product set is extremely good news. We have long been advocates for more clarity with respect to building product information. It will have beneficial ramifications throughout the building supply chain and hopefully lead to more buildings being constructed as designed." Initiated by the Construction Products Association's Marketing Integrity Group following industry-wide consultation, CCPI aligns with Dame Judith Hackitt's call for a 'golden thread' of information as part of her post-Grenfell report into the fire safety of buildings.

Dame Judith addressed manufacturers including Recticel at a CCPI Assessment and Verification event held in London to highlight the first products to achieve Code accreditation. Suitable for multiple applications including floors, pitched roofs and timber framed walls, Eurothane® GP demonstrates a good thermal performance (0.022 W/mK). www.recticelinsulation.com/en-gb/eurothane-gp For CCPI information visit: www.cpicode.org.uk

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NEWS

SAFETY, PERFORMANCE AND COMPLIANCE – YOU’RE IN SAFE HANDS WITH TREMCO CPG OFFSITE SOLUTIONS Whilst design guidance that support current Building Regulations are very much applicable to offsite construction, according to a recent technical bulletin from the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, aspects of fire safety such as compartmentation and structural fire protection present compliance challenges that are not addressed by current design guidance solutions. When these challenges occur, they often create confusion for project managers, contractors, and installers, over how to correctly ensure adequate passive fire protection for their modules. If you find yourself facing this issue, then look no further.

Through a combination of technical know-how, solutions support, and industry knowledge, Tremco CPG Offsite Solutions can help you guarantee safe passive fire protection for your modular construction projects that also meets the necessary performance and compliance requirements. In this article, Tremco CPG Offsite Solutions discusses how they approach these concerns around fire protection within the offsite construction sector.

Safety - Maintaining a safe environment from conception right through to fruition and thereafter is crucial to any construction project. Offsite construction is by no means an exception to this, with the unique requirements of this industry sometimes calling for a more in-depth approach to safety. The team at Tremco CPG Offsite Solutions understand this and prioritise the safety and well-being of everyone who comes into contact with modular buildings throughout the lifetime of the structure.

During the planning stage of the project, they take the time to learn your requirements and evaluate how these will impact on the structure’s safety. Their team of experts understand that each construction project presents differing safety challenges and must be approached on an individual basis. Sharing between them an abundance of knowledge around building and fire safety, the team is in pole position to advise on the correct practices specific to your installation, with a view to enhancing the building’s safety.

Performance - Tremco CPG Offsite Solutions understands that achieving building performance levels go hand-in-hand with 18

safety. For example, implementing fire performance measures to achieve compartmentation will help to prevent the spread of fire and smoke within the structure or adjoining buildings, thus enhancing safety for the structure and its occupants. Through Tremco CPG Offsite Solutions’ sister brand Nullifire, they have access to market-leading passive fire protection solutions that help exceed building performance levels.

Compliance - Ensuring compliance in the world of modular construction is at the heart of what Tremco CPG Offsite Solutions does. Their passive fire protection solutions are rigorously trialled and tested to comply with the latest building regulations and achieve the requisite fire resistance for your module. Take Nullifire’s FZ100 Fire Safe Zone for instance, which is a cuttingedge fire protection solution that has been designed specifically to meet the unique needs of offsite construction.

Tested in compliance with EI 60 to EI120, this fire barrier slab is based on a unique patented technology GXT, making it possible to anticipate fire sealing and integrate it directly when assembling the partition. FZ100 suits all types of service penetrations, is quick and easy to install, and provides added value by ensuring fire compartmentation is achieved.

Tremco CPG Offsite Solutions offers dedicated onsite support and surveys which enables them to ensure their products are installed correctly and comply with the latest regulations and guidance. Their team is on hand to assist wherever required, whether it’s a difficult installation or particularly complex module.

Also available to customers is the Tremco CPG UK Training Academy, which makes your journey through the complex world of construction easier. From Coffee Chats for bite-sized overviews and updates related to their products, application, legislation, or guidance, to a series of RIBA Approved CPD seminars that are designed for architects and specifiers. They also offer Technical Training for contractors and installers to help them master their knowledge and skills. www.cpg-europe.com

NEWS

THE AICO|HOMELINK COMMUNITY AWARDS TO RETURN FOR 2024 After the success of their first Community Awards in 2022, Aico|HomeLINK are bringing this spectacular event back for its second year, returning on Thursday 18 th of April 2024, at the International Convention Centre Birmingham. Hosted by Carl Jones, who presents Shropshire Business Live TV, and works across print, radio and TV, the awards ceremony will welcome over 400 guests and finalists for an evening of celebration, and recognition of excellence within the social housing industry and local community.

The evening will also include a special guest appearance. Aico is delighted to launch the Apprentice of the Year Award for 2024. The award has been established to honour the brightest talents within the electrical industry. The top six candidates for this award will be invited to the Aico|HomeLINK Community Awards Ceremony, where the winner will be announced.

The Community Awards by Aico|HomeLINK are open for nominations to the public and organisations across the UK. Entries will be accepted until the 16th of February 2024. To enter an individual or organisation, please find the Community Awards entry forms here: https://www.aico.co.uk/news-and-events/aicohomelink-community-awards-2024/

ILLBRUCK’S FR WINDOW SEALING MEMBRANE (ME010) IS AWARDED BBA CERTIFICATE Tremco CPG UK Limited, is delighted to announce that illbruck’s FR Window Sealing Membrane (ME010) has been awarded a new prestigious BBA certificate for its technical performance and durability in service and compliance with building safety and national Building Regulations. Illbruck’s FR Window Sealing Membrane is a fully third-party accredited system, when used as a fully air and watertight perimeter seal for use around windows, doors, and curtain walling. When used as a system in conjunction with SP025 FR Membrane Adhesive the tested system achieves a Class B-s1, d0 in accordance with EN 13501-1.

Stuart Sadler, Technical Services Director at Tremco CPG UK, explains, “As well as meeting the fire performance requirements as given in the national Building Regulations, our FR Window Sealing Membrane also demonstrates its exceptional air, water and weathertight properties which are critical when designing and protecting all building types.” “The product is water resistant (Class W1+) and when tested in application around projecting windows is airtight and 100% weathertight at pressures up to 1200 Pa – the equivalent to driven rain in hurricane like conditions!” www.tremcocpg.com

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INTERIOR DESIGN

Cristallo Azure Creates A Zen-Like Atmosphere That Is Striking When Melanie Leakey began thinking of what her dream kitchen would look like, bringing nature indoors and capturing the essence of shinrin-yoku - the Japanese art of forest bathing - was a priority. One of the newest additions to the CRL Quartz collection, Cristallo Azure, helped the team from Milestone Ecodesign fulfil the quite specific brief. The quartz surface, teamed with green paint for a feature wall, bamboo flooring and stone-effect Eco2 cabinets, helps transform the wrap-around extension on the back of a 1960s semi-detached house in the suburbs of Bradford into a zen-like space.

“I wanted a really natural look and felt the azure blue would mimic a lake next to the trees, and it worked perfectly,” explains Melanie. Installed by Select Solid Surfaces

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in Keighley, Cristallo Azure makes a stunning visual impression, while the durability of the quartz material ensures it will stay looking beautiful with minimal maintenance. The striking intensity of the sea-green colour makes it the perfect choice for this project, where it contrasts so well with the natureinspired décor around it.

“Everyone has either worktops on the black/ white/grey spectrum or beige - we wanted to be a little different!” Melanie admits. Entering the newly created space from the existing house, the dining area accommodates a large glass-top table and seating, with bi-fold doors beyond leading out to the patio. To the right of the dining area lies the kitchen, with a long bank of tall units for storage on the rear wall and a kitchen island as a centrepiece.

INTERIOR DESIGN

Complete with hob, sink and bar stools and topped with Cristallo Azure surfaces it is this furniture that turns the room into the multi-functional space Melanie was hoping for.

marble look brings to the kitchen, engineered quartz stone such as Cristallo Azure is scratch, heat and stain resistant and never needs to be sealed.

“The new kitchen looks out onto our south-facing garden, so we wanted to have a kitchen island that incorporated the hob and sink so we could make the most of the views,” emphasises Melanie. “I also think it's rude to talk to someone with your back to them because you're stirring something on the hob!”

“The island is one of the aspects we are most pleased with. It does exactly what we wanted it to do, and it looks fabulous whilst it does it.” The chosen décor is a brave step away from the often-seen neutral tones of modern kitchen design, but there’s no doubt that the finished space is everything that Melanie and her family hoped for from the new space.

"We wanted a really social space where we could entertain guests without having to excuse yourself because you need to focus on making a meal, so wanted a couple of bar stools for the island so guests/ family could take a seat and talk to the chef whilst they make dinner.” CRL Quartz is the ideal surface for such a multi-functional kitchen area. A practical alternative to natural materials yet with all the beauty that the

As she concludes: “I think it is a combination of the use of natural materials and colours that work so harmoniously together, plus the fact that the kitchen is designed around the home chef - everything you need is either straight in front of you or only a few steps away. Plus, the use of the cabinets means everything can be tidied away leaving us with a clean, streamlined kitchen.” www.crlstone.co.uk

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INTERIOR DESIGN

Zentia Gives Ultima+ The Ultimate Upgrade With New Names And New Products, Meet Prestige Zentia, a UK leader in complete ceiling solutions, is pleased to announce the renaming of its brightest and whitest tile, Ultima+. The new family, titled Prestige, will continue to represent the pinnacle of innovation and excellence in the industry and set new standards for performance, reliability and versability. Prestige offers three reliable, bespoke solutions depending on different client needs.

The flagship product, Prestige, offers smooth, finely textured laminated tiles that provide good sound absorption and attenuation, offering perfectly balanced acoustical performance. The tiles contain up to 37% recycled content and are available in 35 colours, offering practical and creative solutions for a range of environments including meeting rooms, waiting areas and data centres.

Prestige hA+ offers the same sleek, smooth aesthetics but also forms one of Zentia's most sound absorbent suspending ceiling tile to date, making it ideal for open plan areas

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that require a dose of calm and quiet such as libraries and healthcare settings. As well as an outstanding acoustic performance, the ceiling systems offer a reinforced scratch resistant face and impressive environmental credentials, being 100% recyclable. Zentia is committed to reducing the environmental impact of its products.

The Prestige family will be the first laminated product to be added to Zentia's Pinnacle Partner offcut recycling scheme. The scheme is a promise from Zentia to take back and recycle all offcuts of Prestige tiles from their approved Pinnacle Partners on future projects.

The final product within the range, Prestige dB, offers sound attenuation properties that is most effective for when privacy is your main concern by limiting noise being transmitted through ceiling voids. This makes it ideal for individual offices and boardrooms. www.zentia.com

INTERIOR DESIGN

FORM AN INSTANT BOND WITH NEW MAPECONTACT PLUS Mapei has introduced Mapecontact Plus – a new solvent-free, double-sided reinforced adhesive strip for fast-track installation of accessories, resilient and textile flooring.

New Mapecontact Plus provides an instant bond and a secure, tough hold, eliminating waiting time. It is ideal for installing textile and resilient flooring onto steps and curved surfaces, and accessories including coving, skirting boards, rubber and PVC profiles.

It can also be used to install angular pieces and protective profiles onto steps and other sharp edges. As well as providing a fast, sustainable and clean installation, Mapecontact Plus has improved resistance to moisture, plasticisers and ageing, for greater longevity. Mapecontact Plus is ready-to-use and available in 25mm, 40mm and 85mm widths. It is certified Emicode ECI Plus by GEV. www.mapei.co.uk

BLANCO LAUNCHES CHOICE.ALL DRINK SYSTEM WITH SPARKLING WATER BLANCO has announced the launch of CHOICE.ALL, the first drink system of its kind to be available in the UK. When fitted as part of the BLANCO UNIT, the platform offers two types of sparkling water (filtered medium sparkling and fully sparkling water), as well as filtered still water (boiling water and chilled, with adjustable temperature levels) plus unfiltered hot and cold tap water. The CHOICE.ALL offers better tasting water in a wide range of formats and temperatures, and is also an incredible space saver, removing the need for a kettle or bottled water. This latest innovation from BLANCO marks the first time the brand has offered a sparkling water option in the UK, and provides consumers with a complete drinking water solution.

With simplified installation making it easier than ever to setup, the CHOICE.ALL platform includes an under-sink water conditioning unit, the brand new CHOICE ICONA semi-professional kitchen tap, and is accompanied by a new BLANCO UNIT app. BLANCO’s new twojet CHOICE ICONA semi-professional tap features an intuitive touch control, with a colour coded LED light ring to indicate boiling, still and sparkling preferences. Thanks to the app, it is also possible to save favourite water temperature and volume settings to return to at the press of a button. At launch, the CHOICE ICONA tap will be available in brushed stainless steel, satin dark steel, black matt and satin gold, ensuring that, as ever, BLANCO offers a breadth of colourways to complement any kitchen design. www.blanco.com 23

INTERIOR DESIGN

The Artistry Of Modern Wood Burning Stoves With Unconventional Designs DRU UK general manager Niall Deiraniya heralds their latest generation of designer stoves.

aspirational homeowners. Dik Geurts, our primary wood burning brand, has been an innovator since the 1980s, developing stoves and fires that can capture the attention of discerning customers in busy fireplace showrooms.

In 2008, Dik Geurts introduced the Aruba, a spectacular elliptical stove that featured prominently in the BBC drama series Hustle. This has now been superseded by the Oval, which is available in freestanding, fixed and suspended versions with greatly improved performance and efficiency.

Ever since wood burning stoves became an essential part of the home heating mix, designers and manufacturers have strived to produce models that will appeal to 24

Its sales this year have surpassed all expectations.

Odin, the circular equivalent of Oval, has proved equally popular, especially the Plateau model, which sits on a beautifully crafted log storage plinth for added visual appeal and practicality. Both Odin and Oval are available in single-sided or tunnel versions. .

INTERIOR DESIGN

This means you can locate them in a central position in the living space and enjoy them from anywhere in the room. Two and three-sided designer stoves are always in great demand, with panoramic fire views that bathe the home in a warm glow. These come in the shapes of the Dik Geurts Bora Corner and Vidar Triple. Both models offer multiple variations in size and configuration with ample log storage opportunities.

The past couple of years has seen a huge upsurge in sales of designer wood burning models, as consumers become more adventurous in their choice of home heating appliances. Contemporary wood stoves, with their ergonomic designs, high efficiency and low emissions, will remain a mainstay of home heating for many years to come. We expect even more exciting developments in these products in the future. For further information, email info@drufire.co.uk or visit: www.drufire.com

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INTERIOR DESIGN

Keeping The Elderly Comfortable Controlling noise and acoustics is a key element in design and particularly when designing for the elderly.

The need for more assisted-living and retirement accommodation continues to rise to match the evergrowing ageing population whether it’s to combat the cost of living independently, downsizing, increased care needs or just a sense of community and freedom.

Care Homes and Day Centres play an important role in our society and can improve the quality of life for its users through an increased sense of security and to combat isolation.

New accommodation is frequently designed to replicate the comforts of a home and to minimise transitional stress but all too frequently ambient levels of noise add to the challenges faced by the elderly. The impact of noise pollution on the elderly is far worse than in younger years. Presbycusis, (hearing loss that occurs gradually for many of us as we grow older) along with cumulative lifetime noise exposure, decline in physiological resilience and dementia all have an impact.

The McManus and McClenaghan (2010) study recommended that “having a good acoustic environment can support inclusion and reduce confusion in people with dementia”. Today’s trends of designing with hard surfaces means that all too

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often the problem is exacerbated with residents, staff and visitors suffering from noise pollution adding to increased levels of stress and anxiety. Danish acoustic panel manufacturer Troldtekt is a world leader in designing and developing acoustic panels to create calm, healthy, comfortable environments with their long-lasting solutions for effective sound control combined with colour to create characterful design.

Troldtekt acoustic panels are available in a variety of different structures and colours combining superior sound absorption with award-winning design. The Troldtekt range has a minimum expected life cycle of 50 years coupled with excellent resistance to humidity and tested to meet ball impact standards.

The range is available in various sizes and structures, from extreme fine to coarse.

They can be supplied as natural wood or finished in almost any RAL or NCS colour. Depending on the panel specified, reaction to fire is classed in accordance with EN 13501 as B-s1,d0 or A2-s1,d0 respectively.

More information on the theme of ‘designing for the elderly’ can be found here: https://www.troldtekt.com/ themes/architecture-for-seniors/ and samples, case studies, EPD’s and technical guidance are available from www.troldtekt.com

INTERIOR DESIGN

Bradite On The Up And Up A popular climbing centre in Sheffield discovered that Bradite HD Floor+Wall paint came out on top when an extensive indoor climbing wall needed refurbishment. The Foundry Mountaineering Club – a community interest company established in 1991 in a disused steel works – was looking to spruce up and partially remodel a 500 square metre vertical surface.

“We had previously used floor paints because they are tough wearing and we need something that doesn’t get marked with the rubber-soled climbing shoes,” explained the Club’s service manager, Jacob Crabtree. “It was the guy who built the wall that put us onto Bradite,” he says. They were delighted to be using an odourless

colleagues took on the repainting task. His verdict on the finish – “Fantastic!” “We used three coats. After the first coat went on, we then used an air compressor to spray on aluminium oxide grit to provide some friction on the climbing surface, then repeated the process with a second coat and the grit. We finished with a third coat and, instead of the grit, we applied a lacquer on top.”

Then came the task of replacing the many hundreds of small hand grips and carabiner fixing points that are spread over the entire face of the wall. The coloured hand grips are arranged to mark out specific climbing routes of differing severity.

water-based product in place of the oil-based paints previously used. Having decided to go for a more neutral grey – RAL 7047 – to replace the garish bright yellow currently on the wall, Jacob and one of his

HD Floor+Wall is a heavy duty two-pack, water-based epoxy coating and finish paint, suitable for painting concrete, steel, ceramic and terracotta tiles. It offers an easy-to- clean finish, making it ideal for hygiene sensitive areas; hospitals, food preparation areas, breweries, bakeries, and now, climbing centres! www.bradite.com

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INTERIOR DESIGN

Style Divides Space Again For Prestigious London etc.venues Facility

Having previously divided the 1st floor conference facility when etc.venues initially moved into 155 Bishopsgate, London, Style was asked to add further space flexibility when the company recently expanded into the sizeable 2nd floor area. Working with Synergy Architects, and contractor, KPS Partnership Style recommended installing a single, 21 metre long Dorma Huppe Variflex moveable wall down the length of the main conference space.

A further five Variflex walls were then installed evenly spaced throughout the room, allowing individual meeting rooms to be created as demand dictates. Maintaining natural light throughout the space, pass-doors are all fully glazed, with an adjacent panel also being fully glazed in each instance. For added wow factor, solid panels feature eye-catching graphics.

“We have worked with etc.venues several times before,” said Michael Porter, Style’s group sales director, “and it is a privilege to continue being involved in creating market leading meeting, event and exhibition space that offers users outstanding flexibility." etc.venues’ mission is to rescue people from the tyranny of dull meeting venues by inspiring them with vibrant design and contemporary art, offering fresh and carefully sourced food, coupled with award-winning hospitality.

155 Bishopsgate has established itself as one of The City’s most stylish conference destinations and one of the largest too, with a total capacity across the two floors exceeding 1,000 guests.

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INTERIOR DESIGN

The new Variflex moveable wall arrangement enables etc.venues to host an extensive combination of meetings by closing off each area into smaller meeting rooms, opening up multiple rooms into one larger meeting area or moving all walls away to create a vast open plan conference/exhibition space.

With Style prioritising acoustic integrity throughout the installation process, coupled with semi-automatic operation that ensures the seals between the panels are expanded to exactly the right pressure every time, a 52dB Rw acoustic rating is achieved, delivering complete privacy between divided areas. www.style-partitions.co.uk

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INTERIOR DESIGN

Express The Individuality Of Working Personalities With Pattern From IVC Commercial Carpet Tiles Made with the world’s first carbon negative yarn, Pattern is the brand-new carpet tile collection from IVC Commercial that responds to today’s agile spaces. As talent retention and wellbeing becomes the priority for corporations, modern office design needs to embrace different ways of working and being together, and Pattern helps the floor to play its role.

The three designs of Pattern explore our relationship with working to create a collection that can flex across the modern office. Balanced has a strong sense of routine and rhythm for areas of rules and boundaries. The settled and structured look reflects a personality that seeks order in their working life, and this makes the design ideal for use in desking and boardroom areas. (cont...)

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INTERIOR DESIGN

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INTERIOR DESIGN

(cont...) Contrastingly, Tailored is inspired by the selfcontrol of those who are adept at switching between task and collaboration. It’s structure flows more freely and breaks at random to give a look that’s suited to spaces embracing today’s many different ways of working. As the opposite to Balanced’s restrained outlook, Unchained references expressive personalities that put freedom before all else. It’s structure roams freely from one place to the next and is the perfect carpet tile for areas driven by creativity.

Jeroom Van Lindt, product manager, IVC Commercial Carpet Tiles, explores how the collection might be used in todays offices: “We were driven to create Pattern by a desire to reflect the multi-faceted modern office. No longer are these spaces geared solely to productivity, there about creating an environment that’s inclusive and supportive, no matter how you like to work or collaborate to get the job done."

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INTERIOR DESIGN

"It’s the many styles of working persona that offices must accommodate which have inspired our three designs. Structure, balance and freedom are all important themes within modern working environments and Pattern lets you translate this into the zones you create with subtle reference."

“Within one office you could use Balanced for desking areas, Tailored in collaboration spaces and Unchained in areas focused on creativity. Alternatively, characterise the company through its carpet tile – Balanced in a financial institution, Tailored in a tech firm and Unchained in a media agency.

Pattern is a really agile and adaptable collection.”

Each design is available in the same palette of 16 colours. The soft and sophisticated options bring calm and grace and suit all three personalities beautifully. Among tone-on-tone greys, blues and warm neutrals, there’s a colour suitable for any modern office. Every Pattern carpet tile is made with the world’s first carbon negative yarn, made with the world’s lightest production footprint from 90% recycled content. Samples are now available from IVC Commercial’s London Showroom, The Gallery Clerkenwell. www.ivc-commercial.com

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INTERIOR DESIGN

Good Things In Small Packages: Zehnder Group Launches The ComfoAir Flex For Improved Air Quality In Tight Living Spaces Leading indoor climate solutions manufacturer, Zehnder Group UK, has unveiled the Zehnder ComfoAir Flex - the latest energy efficient mechanical ventilation system with heat recovery (MVHR) specifically designed for tight spaces and challenging installation environments. Small in size and narrow enough to be ceiling mounted, the new ComfoAir Flex is a compact solution for improving indoor air quality in urban apartments, small houses and student accommodation, where space is at a premium. Not a mere space-saving gimmick; despite its compact size, the ComfoAir Flex boasts a market-leading heat recovery efficiency rate of 96%, ensuring minimal heat loss and contributing to substantial energy savings. The new system also performs to current and future EPB requirements at energy class A+. As a result, it reduces demand on heating systems and contributes to lower CO2 emissions - a step in line with Zehnder Group UK's commitment to environmental sustainability.

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INTERIOR DESIGN

What makes the ComfoAir Flex most adaptable to a wide scope of buildings, however, is an innovative and trailblazing feature for an MVHR. Working alongside the system’s ceiling-mounted design are four, 45 degree turnable bends for versatile duct installation. Each air connection can be individually turned to connect to a duct inline with the unit or rotated 90 degrees.

This allows flexibility for building developers to design projects however they want with less restrictions.

Stuart Smith, Commercial Director at Zehnder Group UK says: “The ComfoAir Flex brings a potential revolution to the UK construction industry. Its unique attributes could significantly alter the industry’s approach to environmental sustainability and occupant comfort, addressing the critical need for energyefficient, space-conscious buildings in the urban landscape.

This new system exemplifies our commitment to the Passive House standard - a rigorous, voluntary standard for energy efficiency in building design - reducing its ecological footprint.

With its high heat recovery efficiency, that adheres to these principles, it will ensure a significant reduction in energy consumption, thereby lowering CO2 emissions."

The ComfoAir Flex is more than just an energy-efficient solution. It also champions superior indoor air quality, a crucial element for the health and well-being of building occupants.

Its upgradable high-grade filters and 100% full and filtered modulating summer bypass maintain a continuous flow of fresh, filtered air, significantly enhancing occupant comfort and health. Adding to these benefits, the ComfoAir Flex provides an unmatched level of flexibility and convenience.

Its software allows for left or right-hand configuration, adding an element of adaptability to its installation. Furthermore, its Wi-Fi enabled app control as standard gives users complete control over their indoor climate, contributing to an enhanced user experience. The system can also be integrated into Smart Home via KNX and ventilate on demand thanks to the CO 2 sensor. www.zehnder.co.uk/en/comfoair-flex

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DOORS, WINDOWS & GLAZING

Concealed Automation Opens Doors To Zara Concept Store, London The multiple angles of the glass and metal fronted exterior blends in with the urban plan of the complex, with the TORMAX automatic swing door operators providing welcoming access from Electric Boulevard, the pedestrianised high street outside the Power Station.

The iMotion 1302.KI door drive is an ideal solution for a building such as the Zara store, as the modular construction will allow for easy expansion of the system as needs change over time. The iMotion door drives can also incorporate panic escape mechanisms, badge access or integration into a building management system for an extra level of access control.

TORMAX was recently contracted by Permasteelisa (UK) to install their iMotion 1302.KI operators to the eight sets of swing doors that deliver seamless access into the new Zara concept store situated within the world-renowned, Battersea Power Station development. With a focus on clean lines and contemporary aesthetics, the door drives are discreetly hidden within each door lintel.

“TORMAX is a pioneer in the realm of invisible automation thanks to the meticulous design of our iMotion high torque motors,” said Simon Roberts, Managing Director of TORMAX UK. "Having eliminated the parts that are known for wear and tear, maintenance requirements are minimised, and an extended life span can be expected. This technology allows us to offer two concealed automation solutions.

The iMotion 1401 operator is situation within the floor below the door whilst the 1302.KI is positioned within the lintel.”

The 4,500sqm Battersea store is Zara's largest commercial space in the UK and features new product displays, women’s, men’s and children’s fashion collections and a Zara Home offer.

Customers can explore two floors of shopping set in a large, clean and neutral space that emphasizes architect Frank Gehry´s vision for the building.

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With over 60 years of expertise in door automation, TORMAX UK Ltd offers a complete entrance solution including design, manufacture, installation, servicing and maintenance. Capabilities include swing, sliding, folding and revolving doors. www.tormax.co.uk

DOORS, WINDOWS & GLAZING

SMART LAUNCHES ALITHERM HERITAGE 60 DOOR SYSTEM, FULLY COMPLIANT WITH DOCUMENT L Smart Architectural Aluminium has announced the launch of its new Alitherm 60 door system, the latest addition to the company’s proven Alitherm Heritage portfolio. Fully compliant with Document L of the Building Regulations, this new range of high-quality, high performance single and double doors provides an elegant solution for both new build and refurbishment projects. The doors’ distinctive slim sightlines perfectly complement the existing Smart Alitherm window ranges, which together mimic the appearance of traditional steel window and door systems – while delivering all the performance benefits of a modern aluminium system.

With a range including single and double doors, as well open-in and open-out options, Alitherm 60 provides a ready replacement for steel doors on heritage applications, such as building renovations or apartment conversions, or for sensitive conservation areas, where planning regulations require a like-for-like product replacement. With a classically elegant design, the new doors also feature an enhanced polyamide break to provide excellent thermal performance, in compliance with Document L of the Building Regulations. A full range of complementary hardware, including stainless steel, heritage and Art Deco fittings, is also available together with Smart’s extensive colour palette to provide complete design flexibility. www.smartsystems.co.uk

CUTTING EDGE INVESTMENT AT CRITTALL WINDOWS Crittall has become the only steel window manufacturer with fully integrated business management, order processing & fabrication systems following the completion of a project to introduce stateof-the-art software & machinery. The installation of KLAES product configurator software and two new CNC machines will streamline the business operations from quote and initial order through manufacture and delivery cutting out time-consuming processes and paperwork. The result will be increased output, productivity and efficiency as well as new products brought to market more speedily. “This investment in KLAES software and additional CNC machinery responds to increased demand for our thermally broken steel windows and doors as well as our Innervision internal screens,” says Crittall Windows Managing Director Russell Ager.

The technology reduces lead-times, makes data accessible across the business and revolutionises the tracking of orders. It also feeds into the company’s advanced ERP or Enterprise Resource Planning software that controls all aspects of the business including finance and inventory. Once an order is placed the raw materials required can be ordered automatically. The combination of CNC machines with the new software also aids product development increasing dramatically the speed by which new windows and doors can be brought to market. Creating a prototype from an initial design used to involve time-consuming, not to say costly, re-tooling but now a model can be simply produced as with a 3-D printer. www.crittall-windows.co.uk

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DOORS, WINDOWS & GLAZING

Aluprof's Guests Enjoyed The Gala Night At The Building Awards

By Wojciech Brozyna, Managing Director Aluprof UK Limited.

Organised by Building magazine, this year’s 2023 Building Awards did not disappoint with some of the biggest names in the industry including HLM Architects, CPC Project Services, Berkeley Group and Mace who all secured trophies at the awards dinner. This year’s event, attended by over 1,100 guests, took place on the 7th November at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London’s Mayfair and was hosted by comedian Rob Brydon.

Mace won the ‘Major Contractor of the Year’ title and the ‘Building Magazine Project of the Year’ title, sponsored by Aluprof, for the Battersea Power Station 38

Phase 2 project. Mark Reynolds, the chief executive of Mace and co-chair of the Construction Leadership Council, was among the other winners, securing the CEO of the Year award. The accolades for CEO and Client of the Year are selected from shortlists created by the industry judging panel, with Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole Council receiving the client award.

Phase 2 of the Battersea Power Station project comprised of the transformation of the former power station, along with a new energy centre and riverside park for the iconic London landmark. The refurbished power station envelope now forms the centrepiece of the 42-acre development which was funded by a consortium of Malaysian investors in 2012.

DOORS, WINDOWS & GLAZING

Now complete, the two large former turbine halls accommodate over 100 shops and restaurants. The redevelopment also boasts over 250 new homes, around 500,000 square meters of office space, that includes Apple’s new London Campus and a 2,000 capacity events venue. Aluprof UK sponsored two tables at the event and key accounts managers were joined by guests from Alliance Facades, Denval, Berkley Group, Stanmore, BAM, Britplas, Elite Aluminium and BB7 Facade Engineering.

Aluprof Managing Director, Wojciech Brozyna, commented, “This event is a highlight of the year for us and we are again honoured to be able to sponsor one of the most prestigious event of the construction industry in the UK this evening. Congratulations to Mace on their success at tonight's event, particularly for securing the prestigious 'Building Magazine Project of the Year' title, which we proudly sponsored”. Aluprof are proud to be one of Europe''s largest aluminium systems companies.

Specification support is available through the company’s website at aluprof.co.uk, directly from their UK head office in Altrincham or from their London office at the Building Design Centre by phoning +44 (0) 161 941 4005 .

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DOORS, WINDOWS & GLAZING

A Window On Unique Garage Door Designs One of the biggest advantages of choosing a bespoke garage door is being able to incorporate windows of many different types. Unlike standard garage doors, which will usually only be available with relatively small windows, a made to order garage door from Rundum Meir can offer something completely different with much more creative potential. Whether it is a ‘mediaeval’ style to suit a historic building, reflecting Georgian grandeur or to achieve an ultra-contemporary look, there are numerous ways the garage door can be designed to feature windows. Choosing a garage door with larger windows is an excellent way to give an existing garage new purpose or enable new garages to be created with the flexibility to use the space as an annexe.

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DOORS, WINDOWS & GLAZING

The garage’s purpose does not have to be limited to simply being a place to park the car! Specifying a garage door with windows will allow plenty of natural light to be introduced into the garage. This is important where the aim is to create a comfortable internal environment for uses such as a home office, a workshop or indoor play area, a games room or a gym, with the added benefit of natural light’s ability to enhance productivity and even our mood. For classic car collectors, or those who have a collection they want to be able to see from outdoors on their terms, having larger windows is a must.

A large garage can become a private showroom by specifying garage doors with full height windows. Shading and privacy as and when it is required could even be incorporated by specifying motorised integral blinds or switchable smart glass into the double glazed windows. The flexibility to incorporate windows in many different shapes and sizes comes with choosing a bespoke garage door from Rundum Meir. Every garage door Rundum Meir manufactures is designed and made to order which means customers can specify the materials and finishes, along with features such as louvres and – of course – windows.

Rundum Meir offers three types of garage door that can be designed to feature windows: side sectional doors, overhead sectional doors and one piece ‘up and over’ doors.

Side sectional doors offer incredible potential for window integration. The panels that make up a side sectional door are usually made from timber or aluminium, but these can actually be full height windows to deliver a garage door that looks similar to a bi-fold door. Overhead sectional doors or one-piece up and over garage doors can also feature windows in many positions, including arranged down one side or in the centre of the door.

Coach house style doors can feature windows in the top half of the door with a height that suits aesthetic goals. These – as well as any other types of windows – can incorporate obscure glass to allow light transmission without being able to see in. For more ideas and advice, please visit www.rundumgaragedoors.co.uk

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DOORS, WINDOWS & GLAZING

KUBU ANNOUNCES ANOTHER MILESTONE WITH GRANTED PATENT FOR CLIP-IN WINDOW SENSOR TECHNOLOGY In a significant move that underscores its commitment to innovation and industry leadership, Kubu is thrilled to announce the granting of another patent - this time for its pioneering Smart window sensors. The patent specifically covers the innovative fitment methods - developed by Kubu - that allow Window sensors to be clipped onto a mounting bracket within the air gap of a window frame, providing an easy to use and concealed fitment.

This new patent joins Kubu's growing portfolio of intellectual property, including the previously patented mechanism that allows a sensor to be integrated within a multi-point door lock, through the use of micro-switches on the gearbox and a custom sensor housing, accessed through a slot in the faceplate of the lock.

"Kubu's dedication to pushing the boundaries of smart security technology is evident in our continuous pursuit of patents that protect and validate our innovations," said Ryan Bromley, Co-founder of Kubu. "This latest patent not only reinforces our position at the forefront of the fenestration industry but also sends a clear message about the authenticity and originality of our products."

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The announcement comes at a time when the market is seeing an increase in fenestration products that are designed to work with Smart technology, such as Kubu's patented security sensors. For Fenestration Industry Trade Professionals, the distinction between genuine innovation and mere imitation has never been more critical.

Marc Henson, Head of Marketing at Kubu, added, "Our team has worked tirelessly to develop technologies that truly make a difference. This patent is a testament to our dedication and another fantastic addition to our already extensive intellectual property portfolio." Kubu's message to industry professionals is clear: When it comes to smart security, it's essential to choose a brand that not only leads in innovation but also stands by the authenticity of its products.

With Kubu, professionals can be confident they're opting for genuine, fully-accredited, patented technology from a vertically integrated business that delivers on its promises. For more details on Kubu's patented technologies and the value they bring to the fenestration industry, visit getkubu.com, email trade@getkubu.com or call 0330 555 9545.

DOORS, WINDOWS & GLAZING Now

Kubu Kubu Smart Security

Your Front Door is Unlocked

Simple. Smart. Secure.

Add value to your next development project.

Add multi-award winning Smart Security from Kubu.

9:41

Kubu is a multi-award winning range of high-security Smart sensors that fit seamlessly into your doors and windows, and integrates with other Smart Home devices to create a full perimeter alarm system that is simple to fit, and provides added value for the developer with virtually no additional cost.

1 x door unsecure

To find out more about Kubu and how Smart Security can add value to your next project, visit: getkubu.com/trade or email: sales@getkubu.com

Be Sure It’s Secure, with Kubu All windows secure

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ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL

Lake District Hotel Selects Stelrad Radiators For Refurbishment Project

Hidden in the heart of ancient Cumbria in North West England lies a National Park known the world over. The Lake District boasts stone circles, glacial lakes, magnificent views, and a history dating back to the Neolithic Period - all waiting to be discovered.

There’s something special about waterside settings and The Wateredge Inn and Windermere Rooms at Ambleside are no different. Perched right on the shore of England’s most famous lake - Lake Windermere – visitors can pull up a seat on the waterfront terrace, and drink in unrivalled views across Windermere.

The hotel and its adjacent annexe – the attractive Windermere rooms – have recently 44

undergone an impressive refurbishment including a heating system upgrade that has seen the selection of a number of Stelrad radiators to upgrade the comfort heating throughout the public areas and the comfortable rooms on offer. Most of the radiators are Stelrad’s best selling Compact radiators, but there are a number of column radiators and a few vertical radiators in rooms where the wall space is limited and going up works better than a traditional horizontal radiator.

“We’re pleased to see our radiators selected for projects such as these – where guests at hotels in wonderful parts of the country can experience the comfort heating after long days out walking in the lakes – with or without their pooches,” says Stelrad’s Lewis Aird, Specification Manager for the north of England.

“This hotel is a wonderful example of how our radiators can blend in seamlessly with the décor in a beautifully decorated hotel that has gone out of its way to ensure that the bedrooms and the public areas combine to offer the best in the hospitality sector.” www.stelrad.com

ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL

HAMWORTHY LAUNCHES NEW CIBSE ACCREDITED HEAT PUMP CPD AND WHITE PAPER Hamworthy Heating has announced two new resources – ‘An Introduction to Heat Pumps’ CIBSE Approved CPD and ‘The Hamworthy Roadmap to Decarbonisation’ White Paper. Ideal for specifiers and installers wishing to understand more about heat pumps and the latest industry developments, ‘An Introduction to Heat Pumps’ is the latest CIBSE-accredited Continuous Professional Development (CPD) course from Hamworthy Heating.

Covering the main heat pump operating principles such as energy, refrigeration, technology and efficiency, the latest CPD offering from highlights the different types of commercial heat pump equipment available and explores the influencing factors which need to be considered before heat pump selection.

Also focusing on heat pump design principles, ‘An Introduction to Heat Pumps’ looks at the main points to consider when it comes to designing a heat pump system, before concluding with an overview of market drivers and government incentives. To further support the transition to low carbon heating and hot water, the new ‘Hamworthy Roadmap to Decarbonisation: Planning Your Journey’ White Paper features an in-depth examination of decarbonisation. Looking at the current landscape; the latest White Paper from Hamworthy discusses the challenges of implementing a roadmap to decarbonisation and how heat pumps play a pivotal role in this transition. www.hamworthy-heating.com

OMNIE PLACING BENCHMARK PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ON UFH PRODUCTS OMNIE, the award-winning UK underfloor heating specialist, is to place benchmark performance information on all its underfloor heating products from Autumn 2023. The information will provide customers with full and transparent disclosure on the efficiencies and heat outputs of its underfloor heating, including the renowned TorFloor 2 integrated floor deck system and the newly launched LowBoard 2 overlay system panels. The OMNIE 50/50 Performance Benchmark offers two datasets for comparison purposes: POWER BENCHMARK – UFH heat output from 50 o C flow water temperature (in W/m2 ) EFFICIENCY BENCHMARK – The flow water temperature needed to achieve 50 W/m 2 heat output “The 50/50 Performance Benchmark is analogous to a comparison of two modern cars with different MPG ratings, engine efficiency ratings and horsepower,” says Brendan Hourican, OMNIE’s Managing Director.

“They can both reach 70 miles per hour, but one will be achieving this effortlessly at an efficiency of 60MPG, while the less efficient car will be working harder and drinking 25MPG. We’re now in a new era of heating our homes with clean, green fuels, which is driving the transition from boilers to heat pump technology. What’s important is that underfloor heating products pair effectively with heat pumps and absolutely minimise the amount of energy a building’s heating system requires to provide effective heat.” www.omnie.co.uk

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ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL

NEW STRATTON MK3 SYSTEM SELECTOR FROM HAMWORTHY HEATING SIMPLIFIES PRODUCT SELECTION Following on from the launch of its latest Stratton mk3 wall-hung condensing boiler range, Hamworthy Heating is pleased to announce the introduction of its new Stratton mk3 System Selector tool, designed to help simplify the product selection process for cascade arrangements. For installations that require more output delivered flexibly, a Stratton mk3 cascade system can be installed with up to 6 boilers at a time to meet building demands effectively. Wall hung cascades have grown in popularity within the past decade due to the additional turndown ratio and redundancy that this kind of installation offers.

Available with a range of plate heat exchangers and low-loss headers (including bespoke frame and header kits), the new Stratton mk3 System Selector identifies all the Hamworthy products needed for an efficient heating system. By answering a few simple questions from a dropdown menu, such as the number of Stratton mk3 boilers to be cascaded, the highest single boiler output and gas type, the new Stratton mk3 System Selector will list all items required on screen. It can also be downloaded as a PDF or emailed directly for added convenience.

Offering exceptional system tolerance, the Stratton mk3 is backed by a five-year heat exchanger warranty. www.hamworthy-heating.com

NAVIGATOR OFFERS NEW MAP-HTI AND TURBO TORCH Leading supplier to building and plumbers merchants up and down the country – Navigator - has launched its new Salvus MAP-HTi propylene MAPP gas and a new Turbo Torch as an extension to its Salvus pressfit fittings range for gas pipes. The new Salvus MAP-HTi is a clean, pure 99.5% propylene that gives a hotter flame. It offers high performance in cold weather and works at a higher working pressure with maximum temperature of 1,985 degrees.

The gas flow of 4g per minute gives 160 minutes working duration per canister. The gas is non-corrosive and will not degrade sealing rings.

Its high purity prevents contaminant build up in the torch connection.

It’s compatible with most popular propane torches and with the new branded Salvus Turbo Torch which is suitable for use with propane and MAPP gas disposable cylinders. Boasting a high burn temperature and adjustable flame, the burner tube can be rotated 360 degrees for easy access and optimum operating conditions.

With long lasting brass internal components, and a 3-year warranty, the Salvus gas Turbo Torch comes with a self-ignition Piezo spark ignition system, a temperature control valve and a trigger lock. It offers an adjustable flame size with a flame length up to 115mm and a flame diameter up to 12mm. It comes with a continuous flame lock and an auto shut off when the ignition button is released. Take a closer look at any good merchant or on www.navigatormsl.com. You can find out more by emailing sales@navigatormsl.com or calling 01234 781234.

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ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL

NEW ‘QUIET’ MONOBLOC ‘S’ HEAT PUMP FROM LG… The heat pump revolution is underway in the UK with more and more housebuilders and social housing providers opting for heat pumps rather than the traditional fossil fuelled gas and oil fuelled boilers. The new, easy to install, highly energy efficient air to water heat pumps available now are proving to be hugely popular, with LG already picking up a number of sizeable contracts from social housing providers through its distributors.

The Therma V Monobloc S air to water heat pump from LG Electronics is characterised by its quiet operation, with the ‘S’ in its name standing for ‘silence’. Using R32 refrigerant the unit can operate at low ambient temperatures to deliver renewable, energy efficient heating. bLG says the new version Monobloc also requires lower amounts of refrigerant compared to the previous model – 16.7% - reducing emissions and lessening its environmental impact still further. The near silent operation means units up to 9kW can be installed at the minimum of distance – 4m and the 16kW units at a distance of 5m from neighbouring homes. The new ‘S’ version is very quiet with a new insulated compartment for the compressor which insulates the sound and a new design on the fan blades, meaning this is the quietest unit produced by LG to date. partner.lge.com/uk

STELRAD K3 RADIATORS CONTRIBUTE TOWARDS BARNSLEY HOSPITAL DECARBONISATION PROJECT Stelrad radiators are the heat sharing choice of projects providing homes and commercial properties up and down the country and increasingly for large public buildings like hospitals, schools, colleges and universities. Many of these projects are seeing heat pump technology integrated with the heating and cooling systems installed in both upgrades and new build facilities, and radiators, when sized properly, work well with ground source and air source heat pumps, sharing heat around the buildings.

Stelrad’s K3 radiators are manufactured with three panels and three sets of fins to maximise the heat available from a low temperature heating system and allow radiators to contribute in a big way to the decarbonisation of our heating systems here in the UK and Ireland. Barnsley Hospital is one such project where radiators and heat pumps combine to provide impressive heating and hot water provision for a major NHS facility in South Yorkshire.

The project has seen the specification of more than 300 Stelrad K3 radiators, to share the heat from the low temperature heating system that is generated by five air source heat pumps that have been installed at the hospital. www.stelrad.com

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ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL

New ‘No Brainer’ Approach To Water Treatment For Residential Heating Systems Launched

After years of accepting the inevitable problems that run alongside liquid chemical water treatment solutions, a company that has solved the majority of the problems associated with commercial heating and cooling system water quality issues has transferred its expertise and product benefits into the world of residential water treatment with the launch of a range of solid chemical treatment inhibitors, cleaners and biocides for the heating and plumbing sector.

The DosaFil alternative solution relies on being able to provide the active ingredients in a solid paste format that is far lighter, less dangerous to handle and transport, results in zero leakage or spillage, needs zero plastic that ends up in landfill and offers as good or better results once applied to a system. DosaFil has multiple customers that have reported success with the DosaFil solid chemicals and dosing devices that suggest that the results of the solid chemical approach is in all cases as effective as the traditional liquid chemical approach and in many, significantly better.

"We set out to challenge the status quo, creating a safe, easy to install and operate water conditioning system that also addresses common key concerns of modern business, such as health and safety, eco-friendliness and reduction of energy consumption," says DosaFil boss, Steve Crick. “We designed a new approach to water treatment, dared to dream about changing things when we were told they couldn’t change, and produced a solution that has made us a highly successful business as we quietly went about changing the face of improving water quality in heating systems.”

Whilst there are a number of more complex solutions and outcomes to the hours of research and development undertaken so far – one very simple idea that was far more complex to master was the belief that water treatment does not need to revolve around huge quantities of liquid chemicals.

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ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL

Steve and his team have more than 40 years of commercial water treatment experience in the locker, and he was convinced that solid paste type chemicals that rapidly dissolved when applied to systems was the answer to several issues that needed addressing in the water treatment sector – in particular in the residential marketplace. So it will come as no surprise that DosaFil is now ready to introduce a similar product – a solid paste, chemical cleaner and inhibitor/ system protector – for the residential heating and plumbing marketplace.

impact. And there are no liquid chemical drums to dispose of – and no plastic bottles going to landfill as you can’t recycle the bottles unless you clean them first.

The chemicals in the new DR range are in many cases the same or similar to those used in solution in liquid chemicals, just made hugely easier to handle and use by taking out the liquid.

And the solid product gradually dissolves in the system allowing for far better distribution of the chemical dispersed around the system when compared to a single glug of chemical entering the system in one shot, in one place as with liquid chemicals.

In addition, they contain industry proven high performance materials to control scale, corrosion and bio fouling – so quite

The Dosafil DR range meets all the standards and guidelines that currently exist in the marketplace whilst offering a raft of benefits over liquid solutions for merchants stocking the product and installers using it – including a massive weight reduction for moving the product in bulk, far less space taken up on the merchants shelves and in the installers vans, far less mess – due to no spillage of the liquid product and a range of other benefits that merchants, specifiers and installers will see as real and tangible benefits over the need to work with liquid chemicals. There are four key products in the range being launched – DR1 solid inhibitor sticks, which is the first solid inhibitor in the world to gain NSF International CIAS certification – formerly known as BuildCert.

Then there’s DR2 Solid Cleaner sticks, DR3 Solid heavy duty cleaner sticks and DR4 Solid biocide sticks and all the products meet the same standards as the traditional liquid competitors.

And the new residential products are already tried and tested on commercial systems for a number of years – it’s just a case of resizing the products to be the perfect match for smaller residential systems. The benefits of these exciting new products are many and varied but most simply make huge sense on a day-to-day basis for the people using the products – which is what it’s all about. The most immediately obvious key difference is the weight of the product – a typical treatment for a 100 -litre system with liquid chemicals weighs around 1.16kgs. With the DR products a mere 0.09 kgs.

A lot less to carry around and a totally recyclable packaging option – just cardboard to recycle – no plastic bottles to landfill. The new products are compact and lightweight. With up to 90% of the contents of traditional liquid chemical water treatment products being water and other liquids using a solid product immediately takes out huge amounts of weight from the situation. The reduced weight reduces transport costs, fuel use and storage costs at a stroke.

simply a no brainer for all concerned. The new products come with serious eco-credentials and the chemicals come with fully recyclable packaging – no plastic – just cardboard. There are significant overall costs savings over liquid chemicals as well.

The solid chemicals aid IPPC and ISO 14001 compliance and last but not least they are made in the UK and proudly carry the made in Britain logo. “These are very exciting times for DosaFil Residential Technologies,” says Commercial Director John Lynch.

“Currently 97% of chemical water treatment uses liquid products. So we have a huge market to target and massive volume potential when those using these products see the penny drop that using solid water treatment products that will be able to be used through introducing the products via filters or towel rail radiators as they wish, will save them time, money and contribute towards sustainability and reductions in emissions and plastic waste. We received exceptionally positive feedback from a number of major players in the marketplace at our stand at Installer Live – we’re confident that they and other manufacturers will be keen to take a closer look at what we have to offer.”

You can meet the DosaFil Residential Technologies team and find out more on the DosaFil website at www.dosafil.co.uk

The lightweight, non-spillable solid products are easy and safe to handle and transport. It goes without saying that the new product eliminates the chance of spills and reduces COSHH

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VIEWPOINT

What To Look For In Heating Controls

Most controls manufacturers now offer boiler plus compliant controls which offer time and temperature settings plus load compensation which provides the ability to modulate the flow temperature from the boiler based on the actual room temperature. This requires the control and boiler to communicate, sometimes via OpenTherm communication.

There is a plethora of heating controls on the market that installers, builders and new homes designers should carefully select from for their individual requirements, according to ESi Controls

OpenTherm ensures the boiler modulates the flow temperature to provide an accurate control over the desired room temperature and stops the boiler cycling on and off, therefore reducing gas use, saving money for homeowners. Boiler Plus compliance can also be met using a Smart Control which provides automation of time and temperature settings and optimisation which calculates the time needed for the heating system to reach the desired comfort level, optimising the heating system’s operation to ensure it uses the least amount of energy to attain the desired temperature.

Smart controls can be connected to a smart phone or tablet offering the ability for the users to control their systems remotely offering more flexibility to lower energy use.

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VIEWPOINT

The design of a new smart control must provide the user with a simple, easy to use and understand interface between them and their heating system.

Manufacturers now provide a range of controls which offer different features and functions to suit the homeowner’s age range and personal requirements such as larger clearer screens for the visually impaired and larger temperature selection buttons to allow elderly and vulnerable people to simply turn their heating up or down subject to their comfort levels.

Similarly, smart controllers now offer sleeker designs which blend into a modern home featuring glass and stainless steel with a lack of switches and buttons with the controls being touchscreen or app based to suit a younger demographic. It is key for manufacturers to design a range of controls to provide choice for the architect and the heating engineer to offer their customers based on their budget, age range and personal preference, to suit the modern lifestyle whilst offering the features and functions to comply with the energy efficiency legislation.

With many heating controls being controlled from apps on smart phones and tablets, the ability to control a heating system at any time of day and from virtually anywhere means you can be in more control than when you are at home.

Modern controls allow you to control several heating zones in the home and control these individually and more accurately so you can easily increase the temperature in the rooms you will use as you head home after work, for example. And you can monitor the temperature levels in different parts of the home, reducing temperatures in rooms that will not be used but leaving enough background heat to keep them comfortable.

With energy prices increasing its important to take a close look at every way in which energy can be saved and costs kept to a minimum and this is why ESi and some other manufacturers controls are OpenTherm compatible. The way OpenTherm works allows far smoother transition of heating control, which reduces energy and saves money. Using OpenTherm will save between 10 and 15% on the gas bill.

OpenTherm is a non-manufacturer-dependent system of communication currently utilised predominantly between modulating HVAC heating appliances and room thermostats. It consists of a communication protocol and an interface specification. OpenTherm utilises an established technology combining simple installation procedure with high functionality and future expansion possibilities.

Most manufacturers now have an app that allows you to control your heating from pretty much anywhere from your smart phone or tablet. As Smart control grows in the UK you will be able to control most of your appliances and electronic devices remotely via an app and one of the options will be to control your heating across the different zones in the home so that its comfortable for when you arrive home after work or to reduce energy consumption when going out.

We believe it is essential to offer a range of controls that are easily useable by end users of all ages and abilities. The type of heating controls you install should reflect the individual users of those controls not just the latest technology available.

Elderly and vulnerable people may prefer a simple control that they can understand easily and operate without needing to think about the complexities of smart controls.

The latest wi-fi controlled touch screen controls may be the height of functionality for younger homeowners and they may cope well with them, but some older people may struggle. Many manufacturers, including us here at ESi have a range of controls available and we can offer simpler heating controls which still comply with the legislation as well as the latest smart control options. www.esicontrols.co.uk

We’re optimistic that we’ll see increased awareness of OpenTherm controls in the next few months as people begin to realise the savings these controls offer when connected to a modern condensing gas boiler.

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VIEWPOINT

How Can Early Engagement Help To Improve Fire Safety Performance?

Neil Kirwin, Southern Specification Manager at SFS, discusses why engaging with building product manufacturers can help to improve fire safety performance.

Earlier engagement in technical design with building product manufacturers certainly helps to reduce the complexity of dealing with fire safety requirements in the construction industry. Few areas of building and specification have seen as much scrutiny and change as fire safety; and this will remain the case for the foreseeable future. Engaging in technical design with building product manufacturers at an earlier stage of projects can help to reduce the challenges of dealing with frequent change. Rising insurance premiums, and the culture of risk aversion, have gone hand in hand as the industry has sought to navigate the changed landscape. Nobody believes more focus on fire performance and safety is a bad thing. However, there is a case for asking whether better awareness is leading to a better understanding of how products and systems behave, if and when the worst happens.

Do specification decisions reflect fire testing results? - Construction product manufacturers are rightly expected to be transparent about their product testing with clear communication of results.

Even where that clear communication is in place, however, a suitable product or system might be rejected from a specification due to risk averse thinking. Specifiers might find themselves looking for solutions that either the market cannot provide, or which are an over-specification for the particular project, because expectations are not aligned with what is actually required, or available.

There are questions as to whether the testing regime generally, and for fire safety specifically, is doing enough.

• • • • •

Do different parties associated with construction projects understand what is being tested, and why?

Are the results communicated clearly - first from the test house to the manufacturer, and then from the manufacturer to the architectural and specification audience?

Are national building regulations clear enough about what is required and why?

Is there clarity about when to look for individual product performance, and when to look for system testing results?

Is enough value placed on system testing in the first place, especially when installers seek to substitute individual components in a building envelope system?

Different fire safety measures and requirements in the different countries of the UK only add to the complexity of the overall picture. In Scotland, for example, combustible materials have been banned from external wall constructions in buildings 52

that exceed 11m in height, even where good test results have been demonstrated. The regulations in England continue to use 18m as a threshold, with requirements applying to 'relevant buildings'but excluding 'specified attachments' that are part of the wall construction.

How could fire safety requirements change in the future? - The direction of future regulations, and how they will align with the risk averse thinking of building insurers, is unclear.

• • •

Could combustible materials be banned on buildings of any height?

What does good practice look like now, and is it possible to anticipate – and maybe even plan for - what good practice looks like in the future?

How will changing fire safety regulations impact on other performance criteria?

BR135 sets out the performance criteria for cladding systems in terms of fire safety. Changing thermal performance requirements are increasing insulation thickness in the building envelope, and we are seeing building envelopes with insulation so thick that it cannot fixed and also meet the BR135 criteria.

What does early engagement look like in fire safety? - Early engagement allows specifiers to work closely with manufacturers of building envelope systems. Through collaboration, it's possible to establish what is required and what solutions are available to meet those needs. Regulatory requirements can be met without over-specification. The specifier can progress through the later design stages confident of having a robust specification and a compliant solution.

Most importantly, they won't have assumed any risk for its selection. One of the biggest barriers to achieving robust specifications and closing performance gaps is cost engineering.

Seeking to substitute products purely on cost grounds leads to more risk and greater uncertainty, as it doesn't take a 'whole building' view of the project. No reassurances that an alternative product is “similar approved” can surmount the fact that, often, the proposed substitution has not been tested or certified as part of the original build-up.

Rarely is it so simple, especially in a building envelope specification, that one product can simply be swapped out for another. Early engagement results in better collaboration. As different parties gain a better appreciation for what each other needs, and how they can support each other, it becomes easier to aim for performance, and to close performance gaps between ‘as designed’ and ‘as built’. You can learn more about robust, sustainable building envelope specifications, and the benefits of engaging with product manufacturers, in our series off technical papers in SFS Talks' here: https://uk.sfs.com/knowledge-hub/sfs-talks

T h e mo st b e auti ful way to say we lcome

Maximum design appeal – minimum canopy height: Revo.PRIME With a minimum canopy height of just 75 mm, GEZE Revo.PRIME impresses with its barely visible drive.

The narrowest profile systems of 60 mm also inspire with maximum creative freedom in the entrance area – for more free space, more transparency and an open airy feeling. revoprime.geze.com Call GEZE UK on 01543 443000 Email: info.uk@geze.com www.geze.co.uk

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PROJECT INSIGHT

Space Saving Insulation For 1970's Building Spacetherm® WL (Wall Liner) insulation from the A. Proctor Group is addressing the need for improving the thermal performance, and helping to reduce heating costs of a 1970s building with limited internal space. The original building, created by the British architectural partnership Benson and Forsyth, is a modestly sized one-bedroom flat. To make the space feel bigger, the architects created a split level, giving the majority of the space to the living areas and compromising on the size of the bedroom.

The bedroom, essentially a little cube, juts out from the rest of the flat, meaning there are three external walls; it’s also partially sunk into the ground.

Additionally, above the ceiling is the pedestrian deck, so again, no insulation. All this amounts to a very cold room. Designer Stefi Orazi from Modernist Estates who lives in the flat explains. “When I first moved into the flat in 2015, I just kept the heating on in the bedroom the whole time, but it just seemed ridiculous to heat a room that I wasn’t in during the day. And then, during the pandemic, I noticed little mould spots all over my mattress and wall behind the bed. I had to do something about it. Properly.”

“I started researching different insulating materials, but because of the size of the room (it’s about 2.5 x 2.5m), I really couldn’t afford to lose any wall space

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with regular insulation. I then came across Spacetherm WL made by the A. Proctor Group. This seemed ideal as it’s only 13mm thick, and you can glue it directly onto the wall, plus you can do it yourself and can download the installation guide direct from their website.” “The A. Proctor Group were really helpful every time I emailed them with a question, and the boards are 1200 x 600 mm, so they are easy to handle for one person alone.”

Spacetherm WL is a high-performance laminate specifically designed to be fixed to the internal surfaces of existing walls without the need for mechanical fixings. Spacetherm WL consists of a Spacetherm aerogel insulation blanket bonded to a 3mm Magnesium Board (MgO) for use in applications where improved thermal performance is required with limited space. At just 13mm thick, Spacetherm WL has virtually no negative impact on floor space, there is no need to remove skirting boards and cornices, saving time and cost, and making it ideal for refurbishment projects where space is at a premium. www.proctorgroup.com

PROJECT INSIGHT

CABERFLOOR PERFORMANCE CUTS IT FOR COTSWOLDS CARPENTER A specialist carpenter, who works across much of the Cotswolds carrying out new-build and refurbishment work, has been making use of CaberFloor P5 and other panel products from the West Fraser range throughout his career. Paul Doherty, who trades as Doherty Carpentry, is in big demand from Moreton-in-the-Marsh across to Stratford-upon-Avon - while also serving customers as far away as Coventry and working for bigger building contractors as well as individual property owners. For many areas of his work, Paul chooses to purchase West Fraser products such as SterlingOSB Zero, CaberDek and CaberFloor P5 because of their broad performance benefits and competitive pricing.

Paul Doherty comments: "I get asked to undertake a lot of different types of contracts, from barn conversions and restoring old cottages, to working on new-build properties and erecting garden rooms for customers. In fact, I created an outdoor kitchen this summer for one client, though the work I did on an old stone-built property at Blockley - near Chipping Camden - pitching a new cut roof and creating new bedroom spaces, is more typical. "The floors there were made up of 8 x 2 solid timbers, though I also install CaberFloor across metal web and other engineered timber joists. I've been using the West Fraser range for over 20 years now and have always been impressed with the accuracy, wide availability, and the competitive pricing."

CaberFloor P5 is one of the UK's most widely specified particleboard products, conforming to BS EN 312: part 5 and carrying BBA Agrement certification. They offer excellent stability as well as moisture resistance and deliver a sound reduction performance of 44 dB. Visit uk.westfraser.com

STAMISOL SAFE ONE CHOSEN FOR SUPPORTED LIVING APARTMENTS Building membrane specialist, ITP Ltd, has supplied Stamisol Safe One, the UK’s most advanced breather membrane, for a development of supported living apartments in Gateshead. The three-storey building Astell House includes 12 apartments, offices and communal space developed by Home Group, a leading provider of integrated housing, health and social care. Structural steel specialists. Intelligent Steel Solutions Ltd, installed Stamisol Safe One within the external wall to maintain the long-term condition of the building envelope.

The membrane provides effective and durable protection against rainwater while allowing the release of internal water vapour, preventing the build-up of condensation in the insulation layer. Stamisol Safe One is the first breather membrane in the UK to combine a W1 rating for water tightness, breathability to BS5250 standards, waterproofing of 7,000mm, UV resistance of 5,000 hours and a Euroclass A2 limitedcombustible rating, going above and beyond the fire safety standards required under post-Grenfell building regulations.

ITP Account Manager, Caroline Collins, said: “The system is an especially popular specification for high-rise and higher-risk buildings as its Euroclass A2 credentials match the standards required by law for cladding, ensuring that fire safety is maximised throughout an external wall. Stamisol Safe One is manufactured to provide those safety standards without compromising the effectiveness of its primary functions in allowing the building to breathe and preventing the ingress of rainwater.” itpltd.com 55

PROJECT INSIGHT

BAM, The Environment Agency And Tarmac Trial LowCarbon Concrete On Hexham Flood Alleviation Scheme In a UK first, BAM, the Environment Agency and Tarmac, a CRH company, have successfully trialled the use of two low carbon concrete mixes in permanent works at the Hexham Flood Alleviation Scheme. A duo of ultra low carbon concretes, developed by Tarmac to new specifications and compressive strength class C32/40, now form the base and walls of a new flood defence structure designed to protect the town and mitigate against flood damage.

The trial has been delivered and funded by the Environment Agency’s Collaborative Delivery Framework Hub A, a collaboration between the Environment Agency, Arup, and BAM, as part of a wider project to deliver flood defence schemes across North East England. The culmination of an 18-month project, from planning to delivery, it is the first time that low carbon concretes developed by Tarmac have been used in permanent works.

One of the new concretes in use by Tarmac is a Portland Limestone Ternary cement C VI, brought in by a new cement standard BS EN 197-5. This concrete has three cementitious components – cement clinker, ground granulated blast furnace 56

slag (GGBS) and up to 20 per cent of limestone filler to replace some of the GGBS. Compared to a standard CEM I it offers a 64 per cent reduction to 119kg/m3 CO2e per cubic metre of concrete delivered to site.

A new version of BS8500, the UK concrete standard, is expected later in 2023, introducing these ternary cements.

The second new concrete is an Alkali Activated Cementitious Material (AACM) with over 95 per cent GGBS as the cementitious component. Standards are still being developed for AACM products. This mix offers a 70 per cent reduction to 100kg/m3 CO2e compared to a standard CEM I. Both mixes – which have been manufactured at Tarmac readymix concrete plants in Thrislington, County Durham, and Teesside – have been tested for fresh and hardened properties as well as a number of longer-term durability tests.

With sustainability a primary consideration, the carbon footprint of the new concrete has been calculated using the BSI PAS2080 specification – a method for assessing the life cycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of concrete.

PROJECT INSIGHT

In the UK, cement, a critical component of concrete, produces an average of 1.5 per cent of emissions, with innovation and investment in efficient plant and fuel switching to waste biomass and road tyres making an important contribution to lowering emissions.

Concrete footprints are lowered further by replacing some of the cement with secondary cementitious materials such as fly ash, GGBS and now limestone fillers. If successful, trials of new ultra-low-carbon concrete alternatives will enable future Environment Agency flood defences to be built more sustainably, with lower embodied carbon. They will also support the delivery of new sustainable concrete products to the wider construction industry.

Leila Huntington, Environment Agency operations manager, said: “The Environment Agency is committed to helping the nation be more resilient to flooding, coastal change, drought and climate change. We all have a role to play in tackling the climate emergency which is why the Environment Agency has committed to reaching Net Zero by 2030. To achieve this we have to adapt, try innovative approaches and ensure that climate and sustainability are at the heart of what we do. “The trial of low carbon concrete in Photo: Maris Hexham is Tomba a fantastic example of how we can work

with our partners to continue to build flood defences to better protect communities from flooding, whilst also focussing on sustainability, the environment and reducing our carbon emissions.”

Ruth Young, area carbon and sustainability lead for BAM, said: “As the Environment Agency’s construction partner in the North East, we are carefully considering how we can limit the environmental impact of the flood defence work we deliver within the Collaborative Delivery Framework, without compromising the strength and resilience of these structures.

“We identified Tarmac’s new low-carbon concrete mixes as innovative products, which have the potential to reduce our overall carbon impact across the framework. “We are working closely with the Environment Agency, Arup and Tarmac, to ensure the materials can be approved for use and look forward to seeing these being used on more civil engineering schemes in the future.” www.tarmac.com

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PROJECT INSIGHT

Recticel Provides ‘SOS’ PIR Solution For Children In Need Big Build Project Suitable for multiple applications including floors, pitched roofs and timber framed walls, Eurothane® GP demonstrates a good thermal performance (0.022 W/mK). This, in conjunction with its lightweight, easy-handling properties, makes it an ideal solution for contractors, installers and end users.

A total of 72 Eurothane® GP panels were used for the new centre’s timber-framed walls. The prefabricated, pre-insulated aspect of their delivery enabled the centre’s walls to be erected in just three days, four days ahead of schedule.

Lowfield Timber Frames’ offsite manufacturing method, along with Eurothane® GP’s thermal properties, was also key to the wall’s fabric Eurothane® GP, Recticel Insulation’s thermally efficient PIR board, was selected as the rapid-fit, fabric-first solution for a children’s counselling and therapy centre being constructed as part of BBC Children in Need’s ‘Big Build’. The project was set within the grounds of Treetops Hospice in Risley, Derbyshire. TV’s DIY SOS team carried out the work, with the build process among the recorded highlights of this year’s BBC Children in Need broadcast.

For the Big Build Treetops Hospice project, the DIY SOS team were required to create a bespoke children’s counselling and therapy centre for traumatically bereaved children and young people in just nine days. The hospice, which this year celebrates its 40th anniversary, provides more than 900 counselling sessions for local children – some as young as sevenyears-old – who are struggling after losing a loved one.

The new centre’s dedicated child-friendly communal areas are a vital addition to the hospice, as youngsters were previously required to access spaces specifically designed for adults. Eurothane® GP panels were specified for the fabric build-up of the centre’s timber frame walls. They were selected by specialist manufacturer, Lowfield Timber Frames, which required a PIR solution that facilitated a rapid installation and a good thermal outcome.

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build-up achieving an impressive U-value of 0.15W/m2K. As several million viewers of BBC Children in Need’s latest TV appeal were able to witness, the DIY SOS team completed their Treetops Hospice Big Build in line with the incredibly short nine-day timeframe.

Recticel is honoured to have contributed to such a momentous project; its Eurothane® GP panels helping to create comfortable spaces throughout the new centre which will provide life-changing support for hundreds of bereaved children coming to terms with traumatic grief. www.recticelinsulation.com/en-gb/eurothane-gp

PROJECT INSIGHT

NOTTINGHAM E-SPORTS COMPETITORS PROTECTED BY FIREFLY® BARRIERS While concrete walls and Armco barriers are conventionally used to help protect drivers and spectators at motor racing circuits around the world, products from the range of FIREFLY ® have been specified to provide the necessary fire protection periods within an East Midlands venue which has become a focus for E-sports enthusiasts in the UK. The work at The Metronome in Nottingham is making extensive use of the manufacturer’s FIREFLY ® Zeus Lite 90:30 barrier, along with the Collaroll product to create compartmentation throughout a basement area.

FIREFLY ® Zeus Lite is ideally suited to this type of application, comprising a flexible woven fabric fire barrier that has been specifically developed for the vertical separation and compartmentation of extensive concealed spaces within buildings. By offering 90 minutes integrity and 30 minutes insulation, FIREFLY ® Zeus Lite 90:30 exceeds the minimum requirements regarding fire barriers under the Building Regulations’ Approved Document B (Fire Safety).

The specially treated glass fibre fabric is strong and resilient as well as flexible while, crucially, the system’s certification covers the inclusion of service penetrations which some products do not. Manufactured from woven and non-woven glass, the FIREFLY® range is designed to optimise resistance to flame and smoke as well as offer heat protection in a wide range of scenarios. www.tbafirefly.com

CLASS 1 MAGPLY BOARDS WITHSTAND REAL LIFE FIRE TEST ON SURREY HOME A potentially catastrophic blaze, which consumed the garage containing a parked vehicle adjoining a £1M house in rural Surrey, was stopped in its tracks thanks to the use of 12mm A1 non combustible Magply being chosen as the render substrate board on the contract , the property was constructed using a Structurally Insulated Panel system construction (SIP) with A1 non-combustible Magply being used on the exterior of the building as the substrate panel for the proprietary render system.

Magply is a multi-use A1 non-combustible board with an impressive library of testing for fire applications. The board is designed and specified to contain fire and support the emergency services with added crucial time! Although the emergency services were quick to attend the fire, which happened in August, it had taken sufficient hold that the large timber framed garage was totally destroyed with just some sections of the frame still standing.

However, the gable end to the house which features a relatively thin, weatherproof finish of the silica-based K-Rend suffered only surface damage. Remarkably, although areas of the render had spalled off, the 12mm Magply boards underneath had not even charred while they had fully protected the SIPs structure beneath. www.magply.co.uk 59

PROJECT INSIGHT

Mapei Makes A Grand Entrance At Village Hotel Mapei has provided a fast-track repair and resurface solution for the main entrance steps at the Village Hotel, Warrington. The renovation project - completed

by SCFR Ltd for main contractor, Derek De’Ath Ltd – included a complete renovation of the concrete steps and application of a UV-resistant and slipresistant Mapei coating system, designed for heavy pedestrian traffic.

Located close to Warrington town centre in Cheshire, the Village Hotel is approach via a wide concrete stepped entrance. Localised repairs had been carried out historically to the concrete steps and the surface required complete renovation. Mapei attended the site throughout the project, to provide support on each phase of works, including substrate preparation, repair and resurfacing, over four days, and installation of the primer and protective coating, completed in a single day.

Following removal of deteriorated concrete, steel reinforcement rods were cleaned and Mapefer 1K Zero - a carbon neutral anti-corrosion cementitious mortar was applied. This was followed by application of rapid setting Planitop Smooth and Repair R4

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Zero - a carbon neutral shrinkage compensated, thixotropic fibre-reinforced cementitious mortar – used to reinstate the voids and resurface the steps.

Solvent-free epoxy adhesive, Eporip and Mapeflex MS 45 – a universal paintable elastic sealant and adhesive compatible with damp substrates - were then applied to seal and bond the surface.

The steps were then primed with Triblock P – a moisture compatible epoxy-cement based special primer – and finished with two coats of slip-resistant Mapecoat TNS Race Track. A fast-track water-based protective coating developed for high footfall environments – as well as racing circuits - Mapecoat TNS Race Track is an acrylic waterborne, rapid filmforming coloured coating, textured with selected fillers and offered in a limitless colour range.

Using Mapei’s Colormatch swatch, a buff-coloured shade was specified for the Village Hotel, to complement the original stone pillars and exposed brickwork. www.mapei.co.uk

PROJECT INSIGHT

WRAPTITE ® AIRTIGHTNESS FOR NEW SELF-BUILD HOUSE A new self-build house in County Monaghan, Ireland, has been built incorporating the high-performing Wraptite air-barrier from the A. Proctor Group. The project, designed by McGuigan Architects, Monaghan, consists of a 250m2 detached private residence. The house design is a load-bearing Lightweight Steel Frame Construction. The steel frame system’s exterior finish is formed of a 12mm Y-Wall Sheathing Board, the Wraptite Airtight Breather Membrane, and a 150mm Sto EPS Insulated Render System. The U-Value and condensation risk calculations carried out by the A. Proctor Group on the proposed through wall buildup confirmed no risk of condensation.

Because the house is a self-build project and the external finish was not critical to the overall programme, the membrane provided both a damage resistant air barrier layer and effective secondary weather protection in one installation process, to allow internal trades to proceed earlier. In addition, the self-adhesive application of Wraptite enables it to be left exposed for up to 120 days during construction. The Wraptite system is the only self-adhering vapour permeable air barrier certified by the BBA. It combines the critical properties of vapour permeability and airtightness in one self-adhering membrane. The high vapour permeability of the Wraptite air barrier allows the substrate beneath to dry quickly and moisture vapour to escape and reduces the likelihood of mould, mildew, condensation, timber distortion and metal corrosion. www.proctorgroup.com

TRITON SYSTEMS TANK WATERPROOF BEHEMOTH BASEMENT NEAR BIRMINGHAM The creation of an extensive basement complex that has taken a year to construct and which extends beneath an access road to link the main property with a separate building, is making use of multiple waterproofing products from the range of Triton Systems. The 900m2. across main house tunnel and adjacent house reinforced concrete sub-structure to what will be a sixbedroom private residence, with amenities including a swimming pool and gym, has been excavated and formed by Leicester based Beautiful Basements, in a contract valued at £800K. Aside from the sheer scale of the property, the contractor has also had to deal with some difficult ground conditions and the sloping topography of the land which was once stables, and offers views towards the outskirts of Birmingham. Beautiful Basements has built the structure in reinforced concrete with 400mm thick walls sitting on the equally thick ground bearing slab.

All of the ready mixed concrete supplied to the site by Flomix Concrete also incorporates Triton’s TT waterproofing admixture.

As the various areas of the basement are finished, the manufacturer’s Platon P8 drainage membrane is being used to line the walls, while Platon P20 covers the floor, with their edges being sealed where they drain into the moulded PVC Aqua Channel around the perimeter. www.tritonsystems.co.uk

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PROJECT INSIGHT

CUPACLAD® Brings Aesthetic Excellence To Exeter Student Accomodation CUPACLAD® 101 Logic was recently specified by student accommodation provider Study Inn for a large-scale building at Walnut Gardens, Exeter.

The natural slate cladding system was chosen for its durability as well as its premium aesthetic.

The project involved the demolishment of an empty office building on the land at Walnut Gardens and construction of a high-quality student accommodation block, which would house up to 166 students.

Located in an affluent part of the city, the design would need to match the high-end, visually attractive buildings that surround the site. Furthermore, it was crucial that the materials used were highly

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durable and weather resistant, to ensure that the accommodation could endure for a significant amount of time with minimal maintenance required.

CUPACLAD® 101 Logic, a rainscreen cladding system, was specified to help achieve this. Installation was simple. First, the insulation material was fixed to the building’s exterior using metal brackets.

CUPACLAD® 101 horizontal profiles were installed followed by the 40x20cm natural slates, in a 7.65mm thickness. These were fixed horizontally using self-drilling screws, which are invisible postapplication to ensure that the overall design and aesthetic is not impacted.

PROJECT INSIGHT

Installation was a straightforward process, partly due to the lightweight of the system, with each natural slate weighing less than 30kg/m2.The slates were easy to cut and work around openings and features, while the self-drilling screws help to secure each slate to the substructure. Now complete, the dark cladding provides an effective contrast with the glass and render sections of the building to deliver a strong overall aesthetic with striking impact. As a natural product, the slate elements of the façade also complement the building’s leafy surroundings, as well as other local buildings made from similar materials.

“Finally, as with all of our products, the natural slates used in the cladding system at Walnut Gardens are classified as A1 non-combustible in accordance with current building legislation,” said Simon Hope, Product Manager at CUPA PIZARRAS. “They are also highly durable, weather resistant and waterproof ensuring a performance life of over 100 years, with no noticeable colour fading. As such, our natural slates offer the ideal material for high-rise, exposed applications like this one.” www.cupapizarras.com/uk/rainscreen-cladding/

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PROJECT INSIGHT

Stelrad Radiators Selected For Enterprise Wharf In Birmingham

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Stelrad radiators have been selected for public areas of a major new building in the Aston area of Birmingham.

Enterprise Wharf is a significant new development within Bruntwood SciTech’s Innovation Birmingham campus.

development. The EPC A rated, 10 storey, 120,000 sq ft building has been developed for innovative occupiers to offer an innately tech-enabled environment to its users. The embedded SMART building infrastructure will optimise user experience and wellbeing, reduce emissions and lower operational costs.

The designer flat fronted Planar radiators selected for the project blend seamlessly with the modern décor of the impressive new building. Bruntwood SciTech is the UK’s leading developer of citywide innovation ecosystems and specialist environments. Enterprise Wharf sets the tone for future development in a gateway position that is attractive to high profile businesses in the ‘grow on’ stage of their

New technologies, including state-of-theart ‘Internet of Things’ sensors, have been embedded throughout the building, forming a ‘central nervous system’ that will provide insights into people flow, energy usage and temperature within different areas of workspaces. www.stelrad.com

PROJECT INSIGHT

Crittall In The Swim With England’s Finest An openair swimming pool of a design described as the finest in England is being restored to its former elegance with Crittall windows playing a significant role. Saltdean Lido, some five miles east of Brighton, is a Grade II* listed Art Deco masterpiece built in 1938 utilising an innovative reinforced concrete structure designed by architect Richard Jones.

It is one of only three Grade II* listed lidos in the country and has been on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk register for many years. After the war, during which it was used for Fire Service training, it lay derelict until restored

by Brighton Borough Council and stayed in use until the late 1990s when local people banded together to defeat a developer’s plan to demolish the lido and build apartments on the site.

A key element of the design is the generous area of glazing facing the pool. Here will be installed Crittall Homelight Plus steel windows that replicate the original fenestration and, because of the slender frames, maximise the benefits of natural light on this bright coastal location.

The windows are also hot dipped galvanised to prevent corrosion and Duralife coated with marine grade polyester powder which will offer the highest level of protection against the aggressive wind-borne sea salts that caused damage to the original building. Once completed, thanks to the streamlined white concrete surfaces and the sparkling Crittall windows, the building will once more provide, quite literally, a shining example of its genre. www.crittall-windows.co.uk

A Community Interest Company campaigned successfully to have the pool brought back into use which was achieved in 2017. Now it was the turn of the buildings currently being restored by Buxton Building Contractors of Surrey. Once completed the building will house an Art Deco event space, suitable for weddings, an exercise studio, library, community hub, café and heritage learning zone plus workspace.

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PROJECT INSIGHT

Powering Up More Sustainable, Healthier Outdoor Public Spaces Many of the UK’s town and city centres are being redefined to ensure they fit more closely with today’s urban lifestyles and the expectations of tourists. The changing retail landscape, driven by the growth of online shopping, more people working from home and an increasing number of people choosing to live in city centres, means that previous models for the design of streetscapes, public parks, plazas and other pedestrianised spaces are needing to undergo significant change. But it is not just reaction to social change that is at the heart of redesigns – sustainability and a growing movement to capitalise on the health benefits of being outdoors, in whatever form that takes, are also part of this fresh thinking to redesign our public spaces.

There is extensive evidence to show that providing safe, secure and attractive outdoor spaces is important to help people be more active and maintain and extend social interaction to benefit their mental health. Flood prevention and ensuring that water is managed efficiently in urban areas is becoming increasingly important due to climate change.

Hence, SuDS (sustainable urban drainage systems) are being integrated and there is an increased use of planters in spaces that were previously dominated by tarmac, pavers and concrete, encouraging biodiversity in the process.

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PROJECT INSIGHT

But there is also another important consideration in making these new outdoor public spaces as popular and versatile as possible to maximise their potential – access to on-demand power sockets.

Events can play a big role in increasing the use of outdoor spaces and attracting local people as well as tourists. Food and drink fairs, children’s fun days, market stalls, music gigs and light shows – events such as these can be a major draw and help strengthen local communities and they are easier to stage (even at relatively short notice) when easy access to power sockets is provided.

This is why a power infrastructure is a must for any redevelopment scheme or new development, and Pop Up Power Supplies® can help through a range of pop-up, in-ground and bollard power units. By incorporating a power access where there is an opportunity for events at all times of the year, there is no need to hire generators, which can be expensive and may not fit with the local sustainability agenda.

The pop up (retractable) and in-ground power distribution units are permanently submerged in the ground, discreetly installed with a lid that matches surrounding surfaces so they are barely noticeable when not it use.

When a power connection is needed, such as to provide electricity to a street food kiosk, the lid can be unlocked by an authorised user to allow power leads to connected. The pop up unit is raised up using a turning handle, whereas the in-ground unit stays below the surface, accessed via a flip lid. As soon as vendors finish serving, or when events are over, the power leads can be simply disconnected and the power unit can be securely locked again to prevent unauthorised access and vandalism.

The third option from Pop Up Power Supplies® is the power bollard. This elegantly designed bollard will integrate with other street furniture as part of an attractive streetscape, whilst providing the benefit of access to electricity when required through its sockets behind a locked cover. www.popuppower.co.uk

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PROJECT INSIGHT

Dural's Floorshow At Adam Smith Theatre The Adam Smith Theatre is currently closed for a major refurbishment and Dural are delighted to be part of the project. The redevelopment of the Adam Smith theatre has been a major capital investment by Fife Council who have worked in conjunction with architect Gavin Turner.

When the theatre reopens this year it will provide the town and community with a much needed hub to work, rest and play! The first phase was to redevelop the auditorium with new seating and carpet. Phase two encompassed both design and architectural vision.

Each space needed to be both practical and functional. There is a busy foyer and box office area which will have to endure a high footfall. A bar area, lower function suite and studio space.

There are areas in this project where ceramic tile flooring has been specified. In these areas the architect has uncovered a variety of floor substrates which meet at differing levels within the new spaces. Dural has been integral in offering technical advice on how to install their Durabase CI++ matting which has been specified by the main contractor on this project.

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This product is a multifunctional matting system, it has a 3 layer construction which offers many more advantages than just decoupling. It has crack-bridging properties and optimised shearing force protection. The theatre is under a preservation order as its construction dates back to 1899.

It was originally created as a memorial to the great economist and philosopher Adam Smith. Interestingly the building was funded by linoleum manufacturer Michael Beveridge!

Durabase CI++ matting allows new tiles to be laid successfully on old and damaged floors. In this instance the matting was placed over both concrete and timber substrates. The matting is quick and straightforward to install but offers maximum reliability. Ideal for renovation projects! The theatre entrance and bar were also all tiled, Dural were asked to supply Coloured Movement Joints for this expanse.

PROJECT INSIGHT

The beautiful tiled floor was both a practical and aesthetic choice. When considering such a large expanse of tile it is important to use both Movement Joints and Perimeter Joints. Hard flooring expands and contracts, a Movement Joint prevents the tiles and grout from cracking.

Movement Joint profiles can cope with heavy stresses and distribute them evenly between the foundation and floor covering.

Movement Joints are designed and manufactured to exceed the requirements of BS 5385 and can be used with Slate, Natural Stone and Ceramic tiled floors.

Dural also provides highly competent advice and support for any tiling project. No matter how complex the application they can provide the perfect solution, including both products and service. www.colouredmovementjoints.co.uk

They protect hard floor coverings from the stresses that cause cracking and tenting. On suspended floors stress-relieving joints should be placed over supporting walls and beams, anywhere there can be a risk of flexing. For a breathtaking finish, coloured movement joints were specified.The floor needed to blend seamlessly in order to give the project a high end finish necessary for such a beautiful building.

Coloured Movement Joints are available in any RAL colour and for this project Dural matched them to the tile colour. They are often used in public spaces because of their durability. Their ability to handle a wide range of loadings and constant footfall is useful. All CMJ - Coloured

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PROJECT INSIGHT

City West Dublin Development Protected With Wraptite® Airtightness The superior airtightness and water resistance protection benefits of the Wraptite® external air barrier system from the A. Proctor Group is a key feature of an exciting new development at City West, Dublin, Ireland. The project development on behalf of Cairn Homes consists of over 400 residential units within nine apartment buildings ranging in height from one to nine storeys. The Wraptite System is installed as an external air barrier and alternative to a traditional standard breather membrane.

Wraptite is the only self-adhering vapour-permeable air barrier certified by the BBA and combines the essential properties of vapour permeability and airtightness in one self-adhering membrane. The self-adhered nature of Wraptite and its high level of water resistance and simplified detailing made it an ideal choice.

Wraptite is an effective vapour-permeable air barrier to maximise the energy efficiency of buildings, combining the critical properties of

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vapour permeability and airtightness in one selfadhering membrane. There are significant benefits to incorporating the Wraptite System within the facade design. Wraptite helps ensure “as-designed” performance, narrowing the gap between asdesigned and actual energy performance and reducing the likelihood of potential failures to meet required airtightness levels.

The Wraptite self-adhesive breather membrane is applied externally quickly and efficiently as part of the cladding system. Wraptite is Class B1-s1,d0, compliant with Part B regulation changes and is suitable for use in relevant buildings and those over 11m/18m, both as a continuous layer on sheathing board, behind fire-classified insulation, and for use to tape joints in insulation behind rainscreen. www.proctorgroup.com

PROJECT INSIGHT

RAIN, SNOW, ICE? NO PROBLEM FOR WEST FRASER'S CABERDEK FLOORING LEADING THE PACK FOR HOUSEBUILDERS CaberDek is one of West Fraser's flagship quality flooring products designed to ensure that, whatever weather befalls UK construction sites, work can continue cleanly and safely; this is especially important with today's tighter than ever timelines. It is made from the same moisture-resistant particleboard as the standard CaberFloor P5 and features a protective non-slip film applied to its upper surface.

In most new-build projects, the upper floors of a residential property are installed before the roof goes on, with the inevitable result that the new floor is left open to the elements for days or even weeks.

CaberDek's protective film prevents rain and frost damage to the new floor surface as well as providing a safe non-slip working surface for the construction team. CaberDek can be left exposed, and remains BBA approved for up to 42 days without risk of damage, provided it is correctly installed with West Fraser's CaberFix adhesives.

Even after the building is weather-tight, the floor surface remains protected while following trades, such as plastering and painting, come onto site. When work has finished, the protective film is simply peeled off to reveal a pristine particleboard floor ready for covering. https://uk.westfraser.com

CRITTALL'S WINDOW DISPLAY A town centre shopping mall in Stroud, Gloucestershire, has been given a new lease of life with Crittall playing a significant role in the makeover. Dransfield Properties opted for a complete transformation of the Five Valleys Shopping Centre to include new retail outlets, as well as enhanced car parking, office space and a community hub with library.

Key to the interior appeal was replacing a jumble of disparate shopfronts and signage with a more ordered, modern appearance. Sheffield-based Dixon Dawson Architects selected Crittall W20 steel profiles for the task. “The client wanted a particular style of glazing.

I was familiar with Crittall and saw it as the best solution,” said Guy Dixon Dawson.

“The whole mall was remodelled; frankly it was a bit of a mess beforehand. Now, everything, ceiling to floor, has been upgraded.” The result is a simplified approach with Crittall’s slender steel profiled windows and doors providing a uniform appearance. All the cold form doors were a mix of hinged and automatic sliders www.crittall-windows.co.uk

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Warning Labels Warning notices to reduce the risk of future pipe damage if the floor finish is replaced.

New Chipboard Covering Layer Covering chipboard layer is pre-cut with the pipe channel pattern, allowing the layer to slot precisely over the warm water pipes once installed in the chipboard layer.

Ultra Fast Warm Up Times The pipe sits proud in the chipboard floor layer, ensuring the pipe is in as close contact with the floor finish as possible when the finishing chipboard layer is slotted in place over the pipe.

Even Easier Installation Unique pre-printed chipboard layer shows where the pipe channels are, eliminating the risk of floor covering fixings damaging the pipe. Locator guides show where screws should be placed.

TorFloor 2 Twice as easy ®

TorFloor 2® reduces installation risk and delivers the best possible heating performance.

UNDERFLOOR HEATING & COOLING. HEAT PUMPS. COMPLETE SYSTEM DESIGN. TRIED. TESTED. TRUSTED.

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©OMNIE Ltd. 2022. All information correct at time of publication. Product information and performance characteristics are subject to change without notice. Visit omnie.co.uk for the latest information. OMNIE Ltd., Melrose House, Rydon Lane, Exeter, EX2 5AZ TorFLoor 2 ® and the OMNIE logo are registered trademarks.