XtraBuild Magazine, April 2024

DESIGN XTRA

Highlights of this issue's Xtra Design include:

The Wisdome Stockholm building encompasses a wooden architectural design creating an archedshaped room of 1,325 square meters. Stora Enso has been the main partner and delivered sustainable wooden construction materials for the project.

OB Architecture have unveiled their latest project Strawberry Hill, a comprehensive refurbishment of an entire residence in the serene Hampshire countryside.

A 55-metre-tall residential tower, designed by architects Hamonic+Masson & Associés for client SOGEPROM, has just completed in Le Havre, France.

The Castings, a brand-new Build To Rent community in the up-and-coming Piccadilly East, will open its doors to residents in June 2024.

Stora Enso Celebrates The Opening Of Wooden Architectural Landmark Building Wisdome Stockholm

Wisdome Stockholm is a new scientific experiential arena situated in the courtyard of Sweden’s National Museum of Science and Technology in Stockholm. The Wisdome Stockholm building encompasses a wooden architectural design creating an arched-shaped room of 1,325 square meters. Stora Enso has been the main partner and delivered sustainable wooden construction materials for the project.

“Wisdome Stockholm is truly a landmark building that stretches the boundaries of wooden architecture. Wood as a building material is an important part of the solution to battle climate change, enabling storage of CO2 and a sustainable construction process. Today’s inauguration showcases the unique design and sustainability benefits of building with renewable materials,” says Lars Völkel, Executive Vice President, Stora Enso’s Wood Products division.

The wood used for both the LVL (laminated veneer lumber) and CLT (crosslaminated timber) building elements for Wisdome Stockholm came from sustainably managed, certified forests in Sweden and Finland and stores in total 1,178 tonnes of carbon dioxide. The construction incorporates both curved and twisted beams, found in only a few locations worldwide. Situated at the heart of the exhibition hall is a substantial wooden dome equipped with state-of-theart visualisation technology. “

Being a part of this project from the early stages, we were able to find an innovative way to use standard industrial products, such as CLT and LVL elements from our Sylva by Stora Enso range, to achieve the asymmetrical structure of the building without sacrificing the fantastic design,” says Jessika Szyber, Business Development Manager at Stora Enso. www.storaenso.com

Strawberry Hill Forever!

OB Architecture have unveiled their latest project Strawberry Hill, a comprehensive refurbishment of an entire residence in the serene Hampshire countryside. This ambitious project was undertaken in response to the client's aspiration for a complete rejuvenation of the property.

OB Architecture is renowned for its ability to harmoniously blend creativity with contemporary innovation, crafting residences that meet the demands of 21st-century living. The focal point of this transformation is a striking circular GluLam timber structure designed in collaboration with Buckland Timber, replacing a dated 80s steelframed conservatory. The original structure lacked modern comforts and thermal efficiency, necessitating a comprehensive overhaul.

The alterations were meticulously calibrated to harmonise with the existing house's proportions, seamlessly integrating with the traditional rural architecture while introducing subtle contemporary details, as per the client's wish for a modern and playful living space.

The end result is a captivating contemporary space boasting 270-degree views of the garden, tennis court, and the idyllic Hampshire countryside. The circular form elegantly mirrors the terrace at the opposite end of the property, creating visual symmetry and cohesion. In response to the client's brief, OB also redesigned the entrance, through to the open-plan modernised kitchen, living, and dining area, and further into the new garden room.

On the lower ground floor, the spa and pool area underwent a modernisation process, with the addition of expansive plate windows that afford captivating views both in and out of the pool. A cinema and games room were also nestled deep into the plan of the lower ground floor. Throughout the project, a strong emphasis was placed on ecoconscious design elements.

The interior decoration was entrusted to Wilson Martin Interiors, who collaborated closely with OB Architecture and the client to devise a scheme in perfect harmony with the building's character and architectural vision. The Strawberry Hill project stands as a testament to OB Architecture's prowess in seamlessly merging modern design with the charm of rural surroundings. www.obarchitecture.co.uk

Twisting

Concrete Tower Is A New Landmark At The Centre Of French Unesco World Heritage Site

A 55-metre-tall residential tower, designed by architects Hamonic+Masson & Associés for client SOGEPROM, has just completed in Le Havre, France. Named Alta Tower, its twisting geometry and concrete frame make a bold and expressive statement at the heart of French architect Auguste Perret’s celebrated post World War II redevelopment of the city, close to Oscar Niemeyer’s curvaceous Le Volcan leisure centre.

The commission to design a new tower was awarded to Hamonic+Masson & Associés in 2015 following a competition including renowned architects Herzog & De Meuron and Rudy Ricciotti. Le Havre, France’s second most important port, was heavily bombed during the Second Word War. After the war architect Auguste Perret was commissioned to design a new city centre. The centre, rebuilt between 1945 and 1964, was designated in 2005 a UNESCO World Heritage site in recognition of Perret’s architectural vision and the modernist, innovative, meticulously detailed concrete city that emerged. (cont...)

(cont...) The competition brief called for a residential tower that would build on Perret’s celebrated reinvention of Le Havre, and link Niemeyer’s distinctively curvaceous concrete building with the strict modern grid of Perret’s urban plan. Perret’s original masterplan envisioned a residential tower for this site. Hamonic+Masson & Associés’s design sought to create a significant piece of contemporary architecture reflecting Perret's vision for a city able to reinvent itself while maintaining a connection with its history.

Jean-Christophe Masson, Co-Founder and Director of Hamonic+Masson & Associés explains, “Alta Tower is part of a city where heritage and modernity blend and feed off each other. It is rooted in the world architectural history of the 20th century and invents a new typology. Hamonic+Masson & Associés had to write a new score in keeping with the two sacred monsters. Alta Tower therefore combines the essential elements characteristic of each: the form and sensuality of Niemeyer, the grid and order of Perret, with concrete being the material common to all three projects.” Alta Tower is at the junction of the two major urban grids of Perret’s general plan and is adjacent to Le Volcan.

Its location, including its position between city and sea, inspired its distinctive character. Its twisted morphology, marked by pivoting balconies and inclined posts, gives the building a unique expression more related to a work of art than a residential building. The Alta Tower is the result of a strong architectural approach and inventive construction methods. Playing on the idea of movement, background and multiplicity, its volume accompanies the different scales of the city in an interplay of levels. This dynamic form in an ascending twist comes from the deformation of a frame (Perret) by a form (Niemeyer). The twisted geometry of the project is the building’s distinctive feature, a specific twisted morphology marked by pivoting balconies and inclined posts that give the building a unique character..

It is also enriched by a reflection on the different building scales of the site, as well as the natural elements such as the wind and the sun. The building comprises 64 apartments and a creche. Residents benefit from generous running balconies, with panoramic views across the city and the docks. The column free interiors can be configured on demand. This open plan layout, along with large pivoting balconies, gives residents freedom to customize their homes right from the design stage, including creating new layouts and joining single apartments together to make larger properties.

The freedom and flexibility of living in Alta Tower demonstrates a new approach to vertical housing in an urban environment. Edouard Philippe, the Mayor of Le Havre and a former Prime Minister of France, congratulated the project team at the inauguration of the building in December 2023. He said “Le Havre is delighted with Alta Tower. It is a fine architectural feat, a beautiful object that makes people talk, that sometimes raises questions, and that catches the eye, and at the same time blends in well with the Le Havre landscape.”

Eric Groven, President of Sogeprom said: "What an audacious masterpiece! Sogeprom has completed an exceptional residential project designed by Hamonic+Masson & Associés, a landmark in terms of design and construction, elegant, efficient and ... complex to build. The building's resolutely avant-garde architecture blends masterfully into the architecture of Le Havre.

"Building the city on top of the city", by replacing urban expansion with vertical density, makes a major contribution to the desartificialisation of land, and this programme is a concrete and living testimony to the promotion of environmental and social values.” Alta Tower is a new landmark in the city and affirms the modernity which is characteristic of Le Havre’s skyline. It has been warmly received by the people of the city and is fast becoming a true icon of Le Havre. www.hamonic-masson.com

The Castings, Piccadilly East - A Brand New Build To Rent Community Launches In Manchester

The Castings, a brand-new Build To Rent community in the up-and-coming Piccadilly East, will open its doors to residents in June 2024. The 352 homes to rent in Manchstester’s newest neighbourhood, will sit at the heart of a vibrant creative hub located just behind Manchester Piccadilly train station. The development is owned by CDL Hospitality Trust (CDLHT), which also owns Manchester’s 5* hotel The Lowry, and is bringing new life to the neighbourhood with its range of studio, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments.

The new lifestyle-led development will also feature a new yoga room and gym, a games room, private dining spaces and a work hub. At ground floor level there are three retail and F&B units ranging from 400 sq ft to 3,000 sq ft which will soon provide amenity for residents and those in the surrounding area.

The Castings is anchored within the city’s most exciting new neighbourhood, Piccadilly East, which was named in the Sunday Times coveted lists of best places to live, and sits conveniently adjacent to Ancoats, New Islington and the Northern Quarter.

Piccadilly East is already home to some of Manchester's most sought-after venues including the highly anticipated Co-Op Live; food, drink & live entertainment venue, Diecast; Ducie Street Warehouse & Blok gym; as well as a host of Manchester-based breweries including Cloudwater, Track and Manchester Union.

The site, built in an area steeped in rich industrial history, pays homage to its past with the name The Castings derived from pouring molten metals and other materials into moulds. The design-led apartments are inspired by these industrial shapes, flowing forms and molten textures.

On the imminent launch, The Castings community manager, Dave Evans, comments: “In just a couple of months, we’ll be welcoming residents into our new community. The focus for The Castings has been to create much more than just apartments; it’s a whole new lifestyle, with the best service and living experience that Manchester has to offer. "

"Piccadilly East is a really exciting area to be part of which already contains some of the most exciting venues within the city, it’s the next generation of Manchester, and following on from the footsteps of Ancoats we hope to continue to create the next bustling creative hub in the city.” www.thecastingsmcr.co.uk

NEWS

Highlights of this issue's Xtra News include:

The CAB board are delighted to announce that Nigel Headford will take on the role of CAB CEO in May.

The team at West Fraser's plant in Cowie, Scotland has donated a total of £13,000 to four local community groups which provide vital care and wellbeing support.

Flowcrete is excited to share How to Avoid Resin Floor Failure in Industrial Environments - a new RIBA Approved CPD Seminar by Flowcrete, a brand of Tremco CPG UK.

James Hardie, the world leader in the manufacture of high-performance fibre cement and fibre gypsum building solutions, has appointed Edward Dunn as Channel Manager to further support trade partners in the North.

Marmox ‘Goes Round The Houses’ At Futurebuild

Visitors to this spring’s FutureBuild exhibition (London ExCel 5th -7th March) were drawn to the Marmox stand D26 by a diverse mix of products – new and well established – offering a variety of technical benefits and even aesthetic appeal, to suit specifications right around domestic or commercial properties. The renowned UK manufacturer had its knowledgeable sales team on hand to explain the merits of its debutant fire-rated insulation panel. Fireboard is the new high performance internal and external wall insulation (XPS) board which shares Marmox’s honeycomb surface structure with Multiboard to create an A1 non-combustible certified render-backer which is weatherproof. Importantly, it can be used internally across walls or ceilings to take a plaster finish, while providing sound absorption as well as thermal insulation.

Fireboard is ‘Resistant to Fire’ with the following accreditation: BS EN 1182, EN 1716 and EN13823. Marmox’s Marketing Manager, Grant Terry, comments: “We saw a very positive response from contractors, consultants and other specifiers to the new Fireboard which offers a practical and economic answer to multiple challenges in both new build and refurbishment situations and there was similar enthusiasm for our recently extended Slicedstone range, which presents thin veneers of natural sandstone on a stabilised backing, which makes it simple to install either internally or externally as a very versatile finish. Our team have returned from the show with a lot of new contacts and dozens of leads to follow up.” www.marmox.co.uk

New CEO for CAB

The CAB board are delighted to announce that Nigel Headford will take on the role of CAB CEO in May. Already a well respected member of the CAB board, Nigel brings a wealth of experience to strengthen the CAB team at Stonehouse. Having been involved in aluminium since 1995 when Nigel entered the rainscreen cladding sector, he has taken on several roles during his career to date and has become well respected in across the fenestration industry in both trade and commercial markets. Having supported CAB since his first Members meeting 2003, Nigel was invited to join the CAB board in 2022.

On Nigel’s appointment, he comments, “It’s early days for me at the moment within the team, but the CAB Board have some clear objectives for the Association in the next few years and I’m looking forward to driving those changes on a day to day basis. It all comes down to CAB’s value proposition and how we can grow our membership within the Industry and offer support to those businesses. I’m also keen that we can better represent the trade aluminium sector as many suppliers in the home improvement sector now look towards aluminium sales to drive their businesses. I'm sure that people who know Nigel will join with me and welcome him to the CAB team and wish him every success in his new role.” More information at c-a-b.org.uk

Committed to Specification

GEZE UK has demonstrated its commitment to specifiers and architects with the recent appointment of Alex Flokkas who joins the renowned manufacturer of door and window control systems as Specification Manager covering the south of England. Alex will focus on collaborating with and supporting architects and end users providing technical solutions for all GEZE products, ensuring compliance with all the latest legislation and regulations. He will be the first point of contact at all stages of the specification process.

With over 20 years in the construction industry with a focus on windows, doors and the glazing sector Alex brings a wealth of knowledge. Previously he has assisted architects, contractors and end users with high-end prestigious projects from residential new builds to Grade I or Grade II listed buildings. Said Alex ‘I am excited to join a global and well-established company which is 160 years’ strong. GEZE’s work culture and values are key to its success and I am thrilled to join a business that mirrors my own values and principles.

Richard Richardson-Derry, National Specification Manager added ‘It’s great to have Alex join the team; he has vast experience in the industry. He will be a great asset to the company and an important part of the company’s continued growth.’ www.geze.co.uk

Navigator Launches New MAGBLU Mini Midnight Domestic Heating System Filter

Leading distributor of the plumbing and heating sector Navigator MSL has launched its latest new product into the marketplace to add to its already burgeoning portfolio of branded equipment – the MAGBLU Mini Midnight boiler filter. It’s an ideal choice for a system where there is minimal space being one of the most compact filters on the market, with design features usually only found in far more expensive models. The Mini Midnight comes in a black reinforced nylon body with a nickel-plated solid brass top and two 22mm butterfly type compression valves.

All seals are boiler grade designed to withstand high temperatures for a prolonged period. The valve position can be altered to suit the space available – either ‘in line’ or at right angles to the filter. The magnet is easily removed for cleaning, which is recommended during normal service intervals – so at least every year when the boiler is serviced. The kit comes with spare seals and a handy tool for adjusting the top cap. It can operate at a working pressure of up to 6 bar and the magnet strength is an impressive 9000 GAUSS. Despite its effectiveness it weighs in at just 1300 grams and has a KVS flow capacity of 4.8 m3/h.

You can contact Navigator today to find out more about the MAGBLU Mini Midnight filter and how it can enhance the heating systems you specify or install on 01234 781 234. www.navigatormsl.com

West Fraser Celebrates Community Wellbeing With £13,000 Donation To Local Groups

The team at West Fraser's plant in Cowie, Scotland has donated a total of £13,000 to four local community groups which provide vital care and wellbeing support. Staff at the site handed out this beneficial funding to the groups and charities, which included Strathcarron Hospice and Maggie's Cancer Centre, Forth Valley Sick Kids Hospital and the Start Up Stirling foodbank.

David Connacher, marketing manager at West Fraser Europe, said: "As a major employer to the local area, West Fraser recognises the importance of supporting the local community and the businesses making a huge positive difference within them, in line with our own dedicated commitment to safety and staff wellbeing at West Fraser. "

"Not only do we look out for each other on site but staff also wanted to extend this culture to the surrounding local area by supporting these fantastic charities within the community. We are thankful and proud to support these charities in the vital role they play in helping others." For further information, visit https://uk.westfraser.com

James Hardie Appoints New Channel Manager

James Hardie, the world leader in the manufacture of high-performance fibre cement and fibre gypsum building solutions, has appointed Edward Dunn as Channel Manager to further support trade partners in the North. Ed has nearly 10 years account management experience working for large national accounts and independent wholesalers. In his most recent role he worked for Glen Dimplex Flame Europe where he was responsible for sales in the North & Scotland. As Channel Manager Ed will identify and drive future growth opportunities for James Hardie products, fostering relationships with key stakeholders at distributors, installers, and contractors in the region.

Ed commented: “I wanted to join a fast-paced company where there was scope to develop my role and make a real difference. James Hardie has a great product portfolio and clear strategy for aggressive business growth. Since I started with the company I’ve been inspired by my colleagues’ attitudes and the support from the senior management team. I look forward to contributing to the company’s success in the future.”

“The creation of this role underscores our commitment to delivering excellent customer service for our clients and partners," said Lee Bucknall, UK Sales Manager at James Hardie. “Ed’s account management experience in the Northern region will help us to develop relationships with the channel, and grow our market share in the area.” www.jameshardie.co.uk

Flowcrete Launches New RIBA Approved CPD on Resins

Navigator Introduces New MB Europa 3 Angled TRVs

Leading distributor to the heating and plumbing trade Navigator has introduced its new range of Europa 3 Angled TRVs under its MidBrass brand – available now from stock in merchants and buying groups. It’s a reliable and versatile thermostatic radiator valve designed for optimal temperature control in domestic hot water systems. Featuring bi-directional flow, allowing for both single and double panel radiators effectively, its liquid-filled head ensures precise temperature regulation, whilst the frost protection function safeguards against freeing in colder environments.

The new TRVs come with a working pressure of 10 bar, a maximum flow temperature of 120 degrees C and maximum differential pressure of 1 bar. The MB 15mm Europa 3 Angked TRV is built for performance. The new TRV from Navigator ensures precise and comfortable temperature control, prevents energy wastage and reduces heating costs. It offers long-lasting performance and reliability and is backed by a comprehensive 3-year warranty for peace of mind. It even comes with a 15mm x 10mm compression reducing set. You can contact Navigator today to find out more about the MB 15mm Europa 3 Angled TRVs and how they can enhance the heating systems you specify or install on 01234 781 234. www.navigatormsl.com

Flowcrete is excited to share How to Avoid Resin Floor Failure in Industrial Environments - a new RIBA Approved CPD Seminar by Flowcrete, a brand of Tremco CPG UK. This seminar provides a guide to successful installation of resin flooring. It covers the different Resin Flooring Types by FeRFA type and goes further into the key considerations when specifying resin flooring - from understanding client requirements to the preparation based on substrate. Upon completion of the seminar, participants will have gained comprehensive insights into various facets of resin flooring. This knowledge encompasses an understanding of the different types of resin flooring available, essential considerations when specifying such flooring solutions, environmental factors associated with resin flooring, and effective cleaning and maintenance practices.

The seminar aims to equip attendees with a well-rounded knowledge base, enabling them to make informed decisions and navigate of resin flooring specifications and installations with confidence. Flowcrete’s dedication to flooring excellence stems back to 1982. Its CPD programmes are delivered by experienced and knowledgeable flooring experts. Other learning options from Tremco CPG’s Flowcrete brand are on: Floor Screeds: How to avoid Failure and Specifying Seamless Resin Terrazzo. Rejoice Chikosi, brand manager, comments: “The seminar offers a specification framework to ensure all the bases of functional design for the floors are covered. Flowcrete UK has been at the forefront of resin flooring technology –supplying both the industrial and commercial sectors with innovative, fit-for-purpose solutions and our new CPD has been designed to help you make informed product and system choices on your upcoming resin flooring projects.” To book a CPD seminar, visit /www.flowcrete.eu/en-gb/solutions-services/learning-zone/book-a-cpd/

Solid Water Treatment Products……Really?

DosaFil Residential Technologies has recently launched a range of solid water treatment products that is creating a stir in the domestic heating systems installation world. To help understand this ‘no brainer’ concept that is already attracting significant interest from social housing organisations and buying groups keen to understand the new and sustainable option for keeping their heating systems water flowing in a cleaner, greener way in the homes they own and manage, we offer a ‘Q&A’ solution that answers most of the everyday questions about this exciting new water treatment product range from DosaFil Residential Technologies………

Q1: Is this the first ever range of SOLID chemical water treatment products?

A1: Indeed it is. Designed to build a solid future! The range consists of four solid chemical products – DR1 is a solid inhibitor that has NSF CIAS accreditation, DR2 a solid cleaner, DR3 a solid heavy duty cleaner and DR4, a solid biocide. It’s a world first for the residential water treatment market and its available now from all good merchants.

Q2: Does this new SOLID range of chemical water treatment products meet any standards?

A2: Yes they do – they all meet all the necessary standards and the same standards as the established liquid products already in the market. The DR1 solid inhibitor sticks are the first solid product to gain NSF International CIAS certification – formerly known as BuildCert.

Q3: What are the key benefits of the solid chemical water treatment range that make it a ‘no brainer’ for merchants, specifiers and installers?

A3: They are many and various but the key ones are as follows:

• Weight – the new solid chemical to treat 100 litres of system volume weighs just 90 g – that is compared to liquid chemicals required to treat 100 litres of system volume which weighs 1.16kg!

• A pallet load of DR1 inhibitor is equivalent to 6.4 pallet loads of liquid inhibitor….

• Size matters – DR1 is small and compact – each pack is 3cm x 3cms x 13.5cms

• Liquid chemical water treatment bottles are bulky to store and transport at around 19cms x 13.5cms x 6cms

• With liquid chemical water treatment products you create a very unsustainable 3 million plastic bottles to landfill – with solid system you create 0 bottles to landfill

Q4: What is the key aim of solid chemical water treatment products?

A4: Quite simply to ensure the most effective water treatment possible whilst reducing the environmental impact of residential water treatment products. We achieve this at DosaFil Residential Technologies by offering technologies that deliver real benefits to homeowners, installers, specifiers and equipment manufacturers without compromising on performance.

Q5: What are the key benefits of the new solid chemical range from DosaFil Residential Technologies?

A5: The key benefits are that the new product range is:

• Eco-friendly – clean and simple to handle, all packaging recyclable

• Small and compact – easy to transport and store

• Safer to use and dispose of – no spillage dangers

• Effective – does the same as liquid chemicals and dissolves in the system in 15 seconds

• Quick and easy – simply add to the system via the system filter

• Meets and exceeds current standards – including what was BuildCert

Q6: Why no solid chemical range before?

A6: DosaFil Residential Technologies has been utilising solid chemicals very successfully in large commercial heating systems for several years. The company has been working on producing solid paste chemical products in its laboratories for many years and always saw the benefits of successfully introducing them to the market.

The combination of Steve Crick’s water treatment experience and John Lynch’s experience in the residential marketplace was the precursor to the inevitable production of smaller products that were perfect for the residential marketplace. Producing useable solid products was no easy task and required hundreds of hours of research and development – we believe others have tried and failed. It took the expertise of Steve Crick to ‘crack the code’ and once the method was established the rest was a relatively straightforward development process.

But this is a world first – the first time a range of solid chemical water treatment products that actually work and perform as well as and better than the traditional liquid chemicals, without so many of the negatives that go with liquid chemical products. www.dosafil.co.uk.

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 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. www.blanco.com

Holistic Approach To Sustainability Sets

SFS Rainscreen Brackets Above The Competition

The complexities and sometime confusions to sustainability in construction put specifiers in a daunting position, with even apparently responsible choices of material – including picking recycled aluminium – leaving a host of questions still to be answered. In an effort to help, SFS has published a series of well researched White Papers on the subject, including ‘Sustainability in aluminium rainscreen subframe solutions,’ with subject areas ranging from the verification of scrap metal streams, through the design of rainscreen system brackets to reuse and end-of-life strategies, explored in detail. There are some irrefutable facts about aluminium in that it is one of the world’s most recycled materials, but while its reuse consumes only 10%of the energy required for smelting the virgin metal, the widespread use of coal-fired electricity (Far East / China) compared to hydro and other renewable resources, means the aluminium industry still accounts for 2% of global greenhouse gases.

It is also worth noting the recent CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) introduction which places a price on the carbon emitted during the production of carbon intensive products in an effort to limit supplies of intensive carbon products. Manufacturing products from recycled aluminium is therefore a huge potential win from an environmental viewpoint, but the situation is complicated by the very varied performance characteristics of the different alloys available; with the 6000 series being most relevant here.

Magnesium and silicon impart additional strength to the alloy, with 6063 being commonly used in rainscreen systems. However, the four types of support bracket in the SFS range are produced from the superior 6005 alloy. Crucially, though in 6005, 100% of the raw material is recycled, which has required the company to create a closed loop supply chain involving certified brokers, to ensure the physical characteristics of the alloy are not threatened by mixing with other scrap.

SFS is also working towards becoming part of the Council for Aluminium in Building’s wider scheme, which brings together the value chain and supports enhanced recycling processes across the industry. The superior strength characteristics of the 6005 alloy compared to the 6063 version. Not only is the 6005 variant's tensile strength higher, providing it with greater resistance to bending, twisting, or breaking under stress, but it also offers improved yield strength.

That means it can withstand higher levels of force without permanently deforming a crucial factor in handling environmental stressors in building applications. The 6005 alloy also excels in terms of fatigue strength, enabling it to endure repeated load cycles over

time without failure. These enhanced properties make 6005 aluminium brackets a more durable, reliable, and long-lasting solution for rainscreen systems compared to their 6063 counterparts.

The material composition of rainscreen brackets plays a vital role in their thermal performance compared to steel counterparts. Equally significant are their design and engineering; therefore, it is crucial for specifiers to collaborate with a trusted manufacturer in a project's early stages.

This collaboration helps to avert the potential issues of selecting a product that, despite its seemingly lower unit price, may demand a higher number of brackets to support the loads. Consequently, this could adversely affect the installation costs and the overall thermal performance of the system.

In addition to SFS’s support for CAB’s supply chain initiative on sorting and certifying scrap aluminium in the supply chain, the company is fully committed to cutting carbon in construction through improvements in product durability and waste reduction, which will eventually help to achieve a circular economy.

And through the adoption of digitisation, this will not only lead to an extended working life for buildings, but also to the potential reuse for its rainscreen support systems. https://uk.sfs.com

INSIDE XTRA

Highlights of this issue's Xtra Inside include:

In an era where flexible working is increasingly the norm and technological advancement moves at an ever-increasing pace, Vicaima is proud to announce the launch of their new AI-driven knowledge base, Vicaima24/7.

West Fraser's CaberFloor P5 is a high-performance particleboard which is widely specified by developers, architects and self-builders due to its stability, durability and ease of installation.

Luxury Vinyl Tiles and Heterogeneous Vinyl from IVC Commercial have given entertainment venue, Viva Torquay, an interior that’s ready for creating a vibrant and welcoming experience. Providing the ultimate in performance and aesthetics, Flowcrete’s seamless resin terrazzo flooring range, better known as Mondeco, is renowned for adding a touch of both glamour and resilience to commercial environments around the globe.

Vicaima Revolutionises Customer Support And Service Automation With It's Transformational AI Chatbot

In an era where flexible working is increasingly the norm and technological advancement moves at an ever-increasing pace, Vicaima is proud to announce the launch of their new AIdriven knowledge base, Vicaima24/7. This innovative tool is not just a testament to Vicaima's commitment to customer-centric innovation but a leap forward in providing round-the-clock support and answers to customer queries.

Enhanced Customer Service: Vicaima24/7 stands out as a cutting-edge solution for providing continuous support and rapid responses to customer inquiries, considerably improving the user experience. This AI-driven tool is designed to seamlessly answer questions, guiding users to a wealth of information spread across installation instructions, maintenance advice, technical datasheets, and many other resources, thus ensuring customer queries are handled efficiently and effectively.

Service Automation: Unlike static websites, Vicaima24/7 is a dynamic, evolving platform. It automates repetitive tasks and customer service processes, saving valuable time and resources. This evolution in service means that Vicaima can adapt to changing market needs and advancements in its own product and service offerings, ensuring that the information and support provided are always up-to-date and relevant.

24/7 Availability: One of the standout features of Vicaima24/7 is its round-the-clock availability. Customers can access this service anytime, anywhere, which is crucial in a global market with varying time zones. This constant availability ensures that support is always at hand, even outside conventional office hours, thus enhancing the accessibility and convenience of customer support.

Efficient Customer Relationship Management:

Vicaima24/7 is more than just a chatbot; it's a tool for more efficient and personalized customer relationship management. By providing immediate and relevant responses, it helps build a stronger connection between Vicaima and its customers, fostering loyalty.

Adapting and Enhancing Through Systematic Updates: A crucial aspect of this new solution is its capacity for adaptation and enhancement, aligning with the evolving needs of Vicaima's customers. While the core functionality of Vicaima24/7 depends on a meticulously curated knowledge base, it's commitment

goes beyond static information. Vicaima isdedicated to systematically updating this base, ensuring that the information remains relevant, comprehensive, and in step with the latest developments in performance timber door systems and customer needs.

Parallel to these updates, the chatbot tool itself undergoes continuous improvements. These enhancements are not just in response to technological advancements in AI and chatbot functionalities, but also a reflection of Vicaima's deep understanding of customer interactions and feedback. This dual approach of updating the knowledge base and refining the tool ensures that Vicaima24/7 remains a dynamic, responsive, and cutting-edge solution in customer support.

To experience the benefits of Vicaima24/7, simply visit www.vicaima.com/en-gb and look for the bubble icon. Start a conversation by typing your query and get immediate answers. For those who prefer spoken communication, a voice option is also available.

General advice is always accessible via Vicaima24/7, or alternatively, contact info@ vicaima.com or telephone: 01793 532333. Vicaima24/7 is more than a chatbot; it's a symbol of Vicaima's unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction and technological excellence.

Creak-Free Flooring From West Fraser

West Fraser's CaberFloor P5 is a high-performance particleboard which is widely specified by developers, architects and self-builders due to its stability, durability and ease of installation. The high-density panels come in thicknesses of 18 or 22mm, in both square-edged or tongue and grooved profiles; the latter features profiles on all four sides to offer maximum flexibility. The precision-engineered edges ensure smooth and speedy installation while the tightfitting joints eliminate creaking.

Choosing T&G CaberFloor P5 removes the need for intermediate noggins, while ‘secret' or hidden nailing or screws can be employed within the joints. Alternatively, CaberFix Joint&Joist adhesive can be applied to the edges, further countering the risk of squeaks and creaks that blight traditional floorboards and many ply or particleboard decks. CaberFix D4 is also ideal for bonding flooring boards to both joists and tongue and groove joints and for sealing the board edges. Available in lengths of 2400mm and 600mm wide, the floor panels, which are net carbon negative, are both FSC® (C012533) and CE-certified and are ideal for humid environments, in residential as well as new-build or retrofit applications.

Samples of all West Fraser construction panels, which are manufactured in Scotland, can be ordered on the website Uk.westfraser.com. Head to the housebuilder page on the website to download a selection of tools including a fullyinteractive guide to all West Fraser products and a checklist to make sure you have everything you need for your build. For further information visit Uk.westfraser.com

Viva Torquay Makes More Of Its Floor With IVC Commercial

Luxury Vinyl Tiles and Heterogeneous Vinyl from IVC Commercial have given entertainment venue, Viva Torquay, an interior that’s ready for creating a vibrant and welcoming experience. With a vision for a modern street food restaurant on the ground floor with a games zone on upper floors, the owners of Viva Torquay have turned an old and weathered fish and chip shop into one of the town’s best entertainment venues. Viva Torquay is now a year-round destination for the town’s residents and seasonal holidaymakers. As part of the refurbishment of the building, a range of floors from IVC Commercial have been chosen, turning the 500m 2 games zone into a compelling and mesmerizing play of pattern and texture.

Moduleo Roots Luxury Vinyl Tiles in Country Oak and Glade Oak create a striped design across the space, adding a welcoming ambience thanks to their natural wood aesthetic with the monochromatic look matching the black ceilings and white painted architectural details of the historic building. Teamed with floor-level LED lighting, it’s a striking effect that also helps to zone activity areas. The floor is ideal for the daily demands of the busy venue. Elsewhere in the games zone, IVC Commercial’s Heterogeneous Vinyl floors feature with the vibrant Optimise 70 in crystal pink and Isafe 70 in mustard bringing vibrant colour to the floor. These hardwearing and easy to maintain floors stay looking good under intense use. Optimise 70 offers improved impact noise reduction, while Isafe 70 delivers 42+ TRRL slip-restraint. Both floors feature Sanitec for additional antibacterial protection. www.ivc-commercial.com

Luxury Steam Room Gets The Schlüter Treatment For A Stunning Result

It is not unusual for tile and stone protection expert, Schlüter-Systems, to be called upon when a bathroom or wetroom installation fails. If the preparation has not been executed to the appropriate standard, it will likely lead to failure later down the line. Recognising and rectifying this before any further work is carried out is the best course of action. Just recently, a residential property in Lancashire saw a variety of Schlüter-KERDI products aid in the correction of a previous installation; the result is a stunning high-end steam room ensuite.

Although the task at hand was a challenging one, Steve Wagstaff of Pro-Tilers UK was not deterred. Initially brought in to finish off the project with beautiful tiles, he saw that the original work was not up to scratch. Having previously attended one of Schlüter’s popular training courses, Steve became well versed in all things orange. He comments, “After seeing what the client was left with, it became clear that we needed a reliable solution to get it right this time around – Schlüter products have always worked well for us especially in this type of area, so it was the perfect fit.”

Steve installed Schlüter products within the shower/steam area of the en-suite. He created two benches using the popular tile backerboard Schlüter-KERDI-BOARD, which became a prominent and beautiful feature within the room once finished. This process was simplified using Schlüter-KERDI-BOARD-ZB, a U-shaped stainless-steel profile, which specifically connects structures made from panels of Schlüter-KERDI-BOARD. The steam room section, which was separated by a glass screen, was waterproofed using Schlüter-KERDI-DS along with Schlüter-KERDI-COLL-L and sealing band Schlüter-KERDI-FLEX giving a reliable and long-lasting waterproof solution.

To finish off the steam area, a frameless Schluter-KERDILINE-DRAIN was installed, nestled between the benches for a seamless and attractive tiled finish. As a piped, waterfed, underfloor heating system had already been installed, it made sense to add the uncoupling membrane SchlüterDITRA-25 on top of it to ensure that the tiles could be installed without any issues of cracking later down the line.

Steve concludes, “The team at Schlüter was on hand to provide advice and support throughout this entire process. They suggested innovative ideas for the space and were quick to come back with the perfect Schlüter solution. We were thrilled to see how pleased the client was with the finished steam room that they could finally enjoy using.”

Illustrating the importance of sub-surface preparation using a variety of Schlüter products and solutions, the stunning steam room has given the homeowner a calming and relaxing space within their home to enjoy for many years to come. www.schluter.co.uk

New Metallic Finish Boosts Towel Rail Design Credibility

Indoor climate solutions provider, Zehnder Group UK, unveils new metallic finishes for its already-popular Zehnder Alban towel rail. Previously only available in Stainless Steel Mirror, this modern towel rail will now boast new finishes in Brushed Black Chrome, Brushed Brass and Brushed Bronze thanks to an innovative Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) coating process.

The new finishes will allow customers to make a standout statement by matching fittings across their room design – from taps and stoppers to showerheads and now their towel rails –creating a cohesive and striking look. New finishing techniques have pioneered radiator design in recent times and now allow for even more options than ever.

PVD coatings, also known as thin-film coating, is a process in which a solid material, such as chrome or bronze, is vaporised in a vacuum and deposited onto the surface of the radiator tubes. These coatings are not simply metal layers, however, but a process whereby compound materials are deposited atom by atom onto the surface, forming a thin, bonded, metal or metal-ceramic surface layer that enhances the appearance of the radiator.

The Zehnder Alban is the rectangular version of Zehnder’s popular Chime towel rail, which is also part of the Studio Collection and available with PVD finishes. The Alban boasts the same sparkling appeal as its round-barred partner but with a perpendicular style. Cantilevered rails allow for even the plumpest of towels to be slid on and off – and it can be installed with rails facing left or right.

This flexibility not only ensures a perfect fit, but also adds a distinctive look to a space allowing for a touch of style, rather than purely delivering on function. The Zehnder Alban doesn’t just perform in the style stakes, however. Its narrow profile from wall to front face is a mere 100 – 125mm projection and its heat output can boast up to 417 watts depending on its size.

With decades of experience and design credibility in home heating, which includes the creation of the first ladder towel radiator in 1980, Zehnder’s commitment to design and function is unwavering. Inspired by bold design principles and powered by technical expertise, the Zehnder Studio Collection showcases an exceptional fusion of form and functionality.

Each model in the Studio Collection is a testament to Zehnder's dedication to innovation, aesthetic appeal and unyielding quality. The development of its already popular Zehnder Alban towel rail is the next evolution in this inspiring portfolio of innovative products, which deliver design and technical expertise into living spaces.

The entire Studio Collection, which includes the Zehnder Alban, Zehnder Chime and the newly added Zehnder Pera, signifies a major milestone for Zehnder - bringing together groundbreaking designs and unwavering technical expertise. It is testimony to Zehnder’s commitment to innovation and ability to challenge the norm in the interior design space.

To find out more visit www.zehnder-radiators.co.uk or to book a consultation at the Zehnder Specification Centre email: london@zehnder.co.uk

Flowcrete’s Mondeco Flooring Combines

Durability And Beauty In Commercial Environments

Providing the ultimate in performance and aesthetics, Flowcrete’s seamless resin terrazzo flooring range, better known as Mondeco, is renowned for adding a touch of both glamour and resilience to commercial environments around the globe. Dating back the times of Ancient Rome, terrazzo flooring has a rich history for its vibrant, wear-resistant, and flexible qualities that continues today through Flowcrete’s Mondeco; dazzling the eyes of observers through its unmistakable combination of colour and aggregate.

For more than 40 years, Mondeco has decorated floor spaces from far and wide in a variety of installation environments, including upmarket retail units, airports, office areas, and then some. In this blog, we explore what makes Flowcrete’s seamless terrazzo range a popular choice for architects and specifiers, who require an elegant flooring solution that will stand the test of time.

Durability – A Resin Floor Finish That is Stronger Than the Substrate

- When specifying flooring for commercial environments, we know all too well of the requirement for a robust solution that will be able to endure high volumes of foot traffic on a day-to-day basis. Through consistent dedication to research and development, Flowcrete has brought to market a durable, high-performance formulation that is guaranteed to deliver a high standard floor finish.

Depending on your project requirements and the system selected, Flowcrete’s Mondeco collection is available in a choice of 12mm and 9mm nominal thickness, as well as a more economical 6-7mm option. Mondeco offers superior UV stability to help reduce yellowing, which enhances the range’s overall resistance, and its maintainable, easy-to-clean finish ensures an excellent, longlasting lifespan.

Mondeco TZ, in particular, has a sustained temperature tolerance of up to 120 °C and incorporates the added benefits associated with Polygiene®, containing a silver ion antimicrobial additive that is proven to inhibit the growth of most harmful bacteria types.

Flowcrete has a long-standing relationship with Polygiene®, having incorporated their antibacterial flooring technology into several of their resin systems. The incorporation of such technology further adds to the easy-to-maintain nature of Flowcrete’s Mondeco flooring range, which, if cared for properly with a regular cleaning and polishing routine, will last the lifetime of the building.

The hygiene benefits associated with Flowcrete’s Seamless Resin Terrazzo Flooring range, make it a highly suitable choice for installation within the pharmaceutical sector. (cont...)

(cont...) This industry requires flooring systems that meet strict hygiene and safety standards to maintain operational sanitation and safety for pharmaceutical and medical research facilities. Owing to its chemical resistance properties, Mondeco TZ protects the floor against acids, alkalis, chemical solvents, and sanitisers, making the system ideal for use in environments that come into regular contact with harsh chemicals.

Beauty – Timeless Aesthetics - The beauty of a Mondeco floor finish will leave a lasting impression in the hearts and minds of all who encounter it. Enabling the perfect combination of functionality and aesthetics through a technological blend of resin and aggregates, this is subsequently diamond ground to deliver a beautiful, smooth, slip-resistant, and seamless terrazzo floor finish.

Available to Flowcrete customers are a wide variety of colourful and decorative aggregates, including marble, glass, granite, mirror glass, mother of pearl, and flint, to give your terrazzo floor that worldrenowned finishing touch.

However, the design potential of Mondeco means we can also offer bespoke mixes and colours that provide architects and specifiers the creative freedom to achieve a shimmering work of art. Thanks to the practicality of resin flooring, the pattern and shimmer of a Mondeco floor won’t deteriorate over time due to common everyday occurrences, such as food and drink spillages, heavy foot traffic, as well as intense cleaning.

Therefore, you can rest assured that your client’s seamless terrazzo floor finish will maintain its shimmering lustre whatever comes its way. Want to learn more about Flowcrete’s Mondeco seamless terrazzo flooring range? Why not download our brochures and explore the product range. For further information, please get in touch.

www.flowcrete.eu/en-gb/get-in-touch/talk-to-us

The Science Behind Good Acoustics

The new workspace at AstraZeneca UK’s head office in Kings Cross, London has been designed by Ekho Studio and spans over 21,000 square feet across two floors. The company wanted to use its new King’s Cross HQ to drive collaboration and innovation further with its relocation to London’s new ‘Knowledge Quarter’ bringing them closer to their broad network of healthcare partners to enable them to work in ambitious, purpose-led partnerships.

As part of the stunning design, Ekho Studio used Troldtekt’s acoustic wood wool panelling as part of the specification to combat issues around acoustics and reverberating sound. The design embraced a lot of hard surfaces - from break-out areas and open plan offices stretching around meeting rooms. This, coupled with the full-height windows to maximise natural light all have an impact on acoustic performance. (cont...)

(cont...) Troldtekt acoustic panels are available in a variety of different surfaces and colours and combine sound absorption with a tactile surface.

With an expected life cycle of at least 50 years and resistance to humidity and impact, they are available in various sizes and four grades, from extreme fine to coarse. The panels can be left untreated or painted in almost any RAL 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. Cradle to Cradle

Certified ® at Gold level, Troldtekt wood wool acoustic panels are manufactured using wood from certified forests (PEFC ™ and FSC ® C115450) and can contribute positively to a building’s BREEAM, WELL or LEED points. www.troldtekt.com

VIEWS XTRA

Highlights of this issue's XtraViews include:

The key consideration for any hospital or healthcare facility is the well-being of patients. Fenestration, in the form of windows doors and curtain walls, offer an immediate link to the outside which can provide both a patient benefit and carry associated risks. according to Aluprof UK Limited.

From sophisticated users who want the latest wifi controlled options, to elderly or vulnerable people who need the simplest of controls to cope with their heating system – it’s vital that there’s a full range of complexity available in today’s heating controls marketplace. ESi is taking a lead in this forward thinking approach, able to offer a control suitable for any home in the UK.

A quality pretreatment system is required if powder coatings are to offer a sustainable finish which can be maintained over several decades, according to Qualicoat.

Fenestration Considerations For Healthcare

By Wojciech Brozyna, Managing Director, Aluprof UK Limited.

The key consideration for any hospital or healthcare facility is the well-being of patients, this can be evaluated as offering patient safety and providing a healthy environment to aid recovery. Whilst building fabric plays its part, fenestration, in the form of windows doors and curtain walls, offer an immediate link to the outside which can provide both a patient benefit and carry associated risks.

The correct choice of modern fenestration systems and associated hardware is crucial to wellbeing and patient care. Murat Uyanmis, who served as Project Director at TP Bennet for over eight years and was involved in retrofitting the NHS Trust's building at 18 Mole Park in Surrey which features Aluprof system comments: “This short editorial covers the majority of the design intent when considering the development of healthcare projects. The review is especially important when specifying the performances of various suppliers and manufacturers when clients offer alternatives to original specifications.”

The Department for Health has produced ‘Health Building Note 00-10, Part D: Windows and associated hardware give best practice’ offers guidance on the design and planning of new healthcare buildings and the refurbishment or extension of existing facilities.

Many older healthcare buildings do not comply with current regulations regarding thermal efficiency. By replacing and upgrading windows to thermally-efficient systems, existing buildings can reduce heat loss and lower energy costs.

Aluminium window systems with high-performance thermal breaks are a wise investment as they are easy to maintain, have exceptionally low U-values and require minimum maintenance throughout their extensive lifespan. The lower the U value the higher the thermal efficiency of the system.

Natural daylight has a positive impact on wellbeing, so it is important to provide uninterrupted views of the outside for healthcare patients. Aluminium windows allow for larger expanses of glazing in slimmer frames, maximising daylighting. Additionally, the use of aluminium curtain walling and fixed light windows can create more welcoming entrance areas and reduce reliance on artificial light. Not withstanding Health Building Note 00-10, replacement windows should feature easy- to-use opening mechanisms or trickle vents to ensure wellventilated spaces.

Substantial window restrictors are a given standard, but more recent innovations, such as parallel push style windows, can provide controlled ventilation and airflow while negating the risk of falls. Murat Uyanmis adds, 'Whilst high thermal efficiency windows come in a range of options, heat can also escape through doors, so it is important to choose door systems that achieve low U-values to minimise energy loss. Automatic opening doors, such as sliding doors, are ideal for hospital environments as they save space, can be made to larger sizes than standard doors and reduce touch points.

Swing doors are also popular for quick access, but they should be robustly constructed to withstand the demands of a busy hospital environment and where necessary be fitted with 90º hold open devices where required. Certainly, all entrances are required to be DDA compliant for ease of access." Glazed doors can also aid navigation and boost daylighting in main entrances and communal public areas. While they may not be suitable for areas requiring privacy, they can make a significant difference in enhancing the overall environment.

Aluminium framed commercial doors are suitable for interior spaces as they are non-corrosive and can withstand rigorous cleaning procedures without compromising their finish. Aluminium screens and doors can offer high levels of fire resistance and are a perfect option to compartmentalise and offer safe escape routes in case of fire.

In summary, the benefits of modern fenestration can be retrofitted into existing healthcare buildings through early engagement with manufacturers, upgrading windows to low U-value systems, maximising natural daylight, ensuring wellventilated spaces, choosing doors with low U-values, and using glazed doors for navigation and daylighting. Situations in the UK where facades face

south can be fitted with fixed or adjustable shading systems which can help control solar gain. Aluprof offers a variety of solutions for sun control in such scenarios. There are proven benefits of naturally ventilated wards in hospitals, these include reduced cross-contamination.

Opening windows inwards allows for the circulation of fresh air, which helps to dilute and remove airborne pathogens. This can significantly reduce the risk of cross-contamination between patients. Research has also shown that naturally ventilated wards have lower crossinfection rates for airborne respiratory diseases, such as tuberculosis and COVID-19. This is because the fresh air helps to disperse and remove infectious particles, reducing the chances of transmission.

Natural ventilation is a low-tech solution that does not require expensive high-energy systems. It can be a cost-effective way to improve air quality and reduce the spread of infectious diseases in all healthcare settings. Pressurised ventilation systems, if not properly maintained or designed, can contribute to the spread of infectious diseases. By relying on natural ventilation through openable windows, healthcare facilities can avoid potential issues associated with faulty mechanical systems, inaccessible ducts, and poor maintenance.

Natural ventilation can also have positive effects on the overall health and well-being of patients and healthcare workers. Fresh air and natural light from open windows can create a more pleasant and comfortable environment, which may aid in the healing process and improve the overall experience of being in a healthcare facility. Aluprof offer one of the widest range of aluminium fenestration systems which include high-performance fire-rated doors and screens.

All systems are offered with technical support to ensure the right system, options and hardware meet expectations. As important, Aluprof can also offer reveal design support to minimise thermal bridging. 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 .

Choosing The Right Heating Controls...

Reducing the costs of heating in difficult times - From sophisticated users who want the latest wifi controlled options, to elderly or vulnerable people who need the simplest of controls to cope with their heating system –it’s vital that there’s a full range of complexity available in today’s heating controls marketplace. And ESi is taking a lead in this forward thinking approach, able to offer a control suitable for any home in the UK.

With the current cost of living crisis, lead by spiralling energy costs, the decision as to which heating controls to include in a new build heating installation or in a heating system replacement project is more important than ever. But it’s not always straightforward, with a wealth of options available and a range of combinations of components that can enable homeowners to be in control of the heating in their homes. But it’s vital that the controls installed meet the requirements and on occasions the limitations of the potential users.

There is no point installing the latest wifi or blue tooth connected controls if the homeowner or tenant is elderly or vulnerable and unable to fathom out how to use the latest smart controls now available. If they need a straightforward dial control, that is what you should install. Clever use of controls can help minimise energy consumption by ensuring each room is at the right temperature for comfort, whilst avoiding overheating.

Installers are still the key decision makers when it comes to selecting heating controls – most of their customers will rely on them to offer the best solution for them and it will help if installers can explain the controls in reasonable detail to make them aware of why they are installing the controls they have selected even if in broad terms relating to the energy savings available and the environmental benefits of the controls chosen. As well as offering Boiler Plus compliant units, ESi is one of the leading members of the OpenTherm Association, offering access to the OpenTherm protocol.

OpenTherm is a non-manufacturer dependent system of communication between modulating HVAC appliances and room thermostats. Quite simply, it consists of a communication protocol and an interface specification. More and more appliance manufacturers are bringing modulating central heating systems onto the market –traditional boilers and renewable options including many heat pumps.These appliances offer better efficiency and reduced environmental effects. However, to operate these appliances, a communication protocol between the appliance and the controller is required. It involves the addition of a small bit of software only available to OpenTherm Association members.

OpenTherm is a communications protocol that allows modulating heating appliances to communicate directly with the heating controls within the property. By having constant communications between the ‘thermostat’ and the ‘boiler’, the heating controls can accurately control the appliances heating output, ensuring the correct amount of heat is given to the heating system at the correct time. In terms of OpenTherm gas condensing boilers, this leads to significant energy savings by keeping condensing boilers in condensing mode for much longer durations.

OpenTherm allows 3rd party control manufacturers to create a wide range of simple control solutions for boilers. The beauty of OpenTherm is it can be applied not just to modulation condensing gas boilers, but to any heating and hot water system that uses the OpenTherm protocol. So, an OpenTherm gas boiler and OpenTherm control fitted right now, could be easily added to an OpenTherm Heat Pump and OpenTherm MVHR system in the future.

OpenTherm can easily be changed and adapted. ESi is just one of the companies signed up to the OpenTherm Association, agreeing to work with it to introduce a wider acceptance of OpenTherm as a standard in the UK. Manufacturers of boilers and controls that have already evaluated the OpenTherm protocol’s compatibility with their systems include major companies in Europe with

an influence in the UK – wanting to see the acceptance of the OpenTherm protocol here in the UK marketplace. Recognising the common sense in developing a common use ‘Open’ system here in the UK, the protocol importantly, also has the support of industry bodies HHIC and BEAMA who are committed to supporting OpenTherm’s wider introduction here. ESi has launched its new, top of the range, 6 Series WiFi Programmable Room Thermostat, offering the latest in heating control for homes and commercial premises here in the UK. Fully OpenTherm compatible, this new range of controls allows full control via the room thermostat or via a mobile phone or tablet, with a range of features to impress even the most demanding specifier, installer or homeowner.

It includes Optimum Start/Stop, Domestic Hot Water (DHW) setpoint, Hot Water time and temperature control when working in conjunction with a wireless cylinder thermostat, full 7 day, 5/2 day or 24 hour programming options, a boost facility, a helpful Holiday Mode and is an ERP Class 5 Product. The new controls are available in white or grey. And its latest release is the new RTP4 Touch. The 4 Touch has a large backlit LCD display and touch screen making it simple-to-use and programme.

The RTP4 Touch slots in neatly between ESi’s best selling RTP4RF units and its top of the range 6 Series WIFI programmable room thermostats, offering many of the benefits of both these ranges but providing additional benefits as well.

It offers optimum start/stop and delayed start functions offering additional cost savings for users, 7 day, 5/2 day or 24 hour options to suit the homeowner or tenants lifestyles, automatic summer/winter change settings and has home, manual, away, sleep and holiday modes long with its popular landlord service interval reminder which makes it a perfect fit for social housing providers looking for a compliant heating control.

The new unit is battery controlled and comes with a low power indicator to show simply when the battery needs replacing. And the new control comes with a 3-year warranty to give owners complete peace of mind. To find out more about these exceptional new controls, enquire at your usual merchant branch, contact your local ESi personnel or head for www.esicontrols.co.uk.

Specifying And Maintaining Architectural Powder Coatings

By Angus MackieQUALICOAT Chair

Powder coating was once seen as something that could be applied to aluminium to cover any irregularities, such as damage, corrosion, etc. Whilst this approach may allow the aluminium to look good for a few weeks or months after being coated, once weathered, the powder coating will quickly peel and fail. The reason for this is that powder coated finish is porous which allows moisture to reach the aluminium substrate where oxidisation will take place under the coating. Adhesion of the finish is also crucial and if the substrate does not offer a key, the powder coating can easily be chipped off.

A quality pretreatment system is required if the powder coating is to offer a sustainable finish which can be maintained over several decades. Often overlooked in the specification process, the pretreatment of the aluminium substrate is crucial as it has to firmly bond onto the aluminium. If the pretreatment is poorly applied, oxidisation of the aluminium over time can cause the powder coating to lose its adhesion.

Licensed QUALICOAT applicators across the globe are routinely inspected by independent test houses to ensure the latest QUALICOAT Specification for pretreatment application is being followed. Before any pretreatment system can be applied to the aluminium, the surface of the aluminium is cleaned of any surface greasy deposits from the extrusion process through an immersion or a cascade process.

Following this the surface of the aluminium is then etched to remove surface contaminants in the aluminium. These processes ensure that the pretreatment system, bonds well with the aluminium substrate and once completed the profiles are oven dried prior to powder coating.

It is important to note that the pretreatment system can be varied slightly to offer increased levels of protection. The recently released Technical Information Sheet No.4 from QUALICOAT ‘Recommendations for the Corrosion protection’ now offers specifiers guidance on the recommended pretreatment system to specify for various “Corrosivity categories” according to ISO 18768-1:2022 Table 1 and ISO 9223:2012 Table C.1.

Whilst it is still strongly recommended that specifiers continue to seek guidance from a QUALICOAT licensed powder coater or powder manufacturer when specifying finishes, the guide offers an insight as to the levels of protection offered when specifying QUALICOAT architectural powder coating. As with any applied finish exposed to British weather, it is important that a maintenance regime is undertaken to keep it performing and looking well for many years.

Pollutants and airborne debris, which are deposited on powder coated finishes through weathering, can simply be cleaned down at the same time as window cleaning using mild detergent solutions. Aluminium window and facade longevity starts with a high quality aluminium substrate pretreatment and powder coat finish as provided by a licensed QUALICOAT applicator. Prior to handover of any new installation or building, coated aluminium fenestration will be cleaned down professionally to ensure that the finish is not damaged.

It is crucial to have any areas of impact or abrasion damage repaired, should it be present. During cleaning, all the protective tape must be removed from the inside and outside of powder coated surfaces as if this is left on for an extensive time, the tapes lowtack adhesive can often degrade, especially in UV light, and become firmly attached to the powder coating. Once handed over to the client, in normal use such as in cities, the powder coat finish should simply be washed down at yearly intervals with clean water or with a ph neutral mild detergent solution in water.

This should be enough to protect the visible surface of the powder coat for many years and can simply be done during the cleaning of windows. The powder coat finish wash down is especially important where squeegee bars are used to clean the glass, as their use tends to place the residue of the airborne contaminants directly on the powder coated frame which could begin to etch into the surface finish of the coating.

Window cleaners must ensure that all powder coated surfaces are wiped clear of cleaning residue on every window clean. On new and refurbished building projects, powder coated finishes will always come with a cleaning and maintenance regime from the company who coated the aluminium profiles.

These will offer minimum cleaning requirements and need to be adhered to as well as being recorded when completed. This will ensure the coated finish is maintained within the applicators warranty and will help, should there be any claim in the future. Warranties vary in length and are dependent on the powder coat finish used and the location of the installation.

For example, where the coating is close to the sea, a QUALICOAT ‘Seaside’ specification for the coating should be specified and the cleaning regime will often be increased to three-monthly intervals as the atmosphere is more corrosive.

Crucial to any maintenance regime is preventative maintenance and powder coating is no exception, if the coating in use has become damaged, exposing the aluminium, it should be repaired as soon as possible. For repair, either contact the original coater, or approach any QUALICOAT approved application who can normally offer guidance. The up-todate QUALICOAT Specification is freely available for download via the UK & Ireland Association website, qualicoatuki.org and the website offers an up-to-date list of licensed UK and Ireland Powder Suppliers, Pretreatment Suppliers and Applicators including the applicators who carry the Seaside class accreditation.

Telephone support is available from QUALICOAT UK & Ireland Head Office on 0330 240 9735, the Association can also be followed on Twitter @Qualicoatuki or on LinkedIn www.linkedin. com/company/qualicoat-uk-&ireland

ONSITE XTRA

Highlights of this issue's Xtra Onsite include:

The iconic steel windows of Adelaide House will be updated by the very company that brought them to life 100 years ago – Crittall Windows.

A Sto rainscreen cladding system has provided an alternative construction method for a new housing development, generating time and cost efficiencies.

A Suffolk-based scaffolding and flat roofing specialist has chosen SterlingOSB Zero PrimedPlus from West Fraser for the hoardings around repair works at the St Edmundsbury Cathedral site in Bury St Edmunds.

Beam Contracting, the high-end construction firm, has chosen to utilise the Hardie® Architectural Panel, a product from James Hardie, as part of its construction of ten modular flats in Poole.

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

Schöck Isokorb Certainly Fit For Purpose At New NHS Health Centre

A new Chiswick Health Centre is being built in Fishers Lane, West London. This is an NHS upgrade on the site of the previous building. The new facility, designed by architect Allies and Morrison and under construction with Willmott Dixon, will be a key hub for 60,000 patients and provide GP consulting and examination rooms, district nurse facilities and community rooms.

In a separate but associated building, sited around a landscaped central courtyard, the project will also deliver 55 affordable homes for key health workers such as nurses and physiotherapists. Balconies inevitably feature throughout the accommodation areas and to avoid any risk of thermal bridging at the various connectivity points, the design detailing

required a structural thermal break with total reliability proven performance. Specification required standard and bespoke Isokorb solutions - at the low and intermediate levels of the structure, the choice was the Schöck Isokorb T type K for concrete-to-concrete.

It is probably the best-selling European thermal break solution for this type of application and is manufactured using stainless steel and HTE (High Thermal Efficiency) modules with steel fibre reinforced UHPC (Ultra High-Performance Concrete). This guarantees the highest quality thermal separation of balconies and floor slabs, due to its low thermal conductivity and integral load-bearing capacity.

At the top of the building, bespoke Isokorb units had to be provided for the roof level colonnade beams, which needed to be thermally broken. These ‘specials’ involved thermal break units with point shear-load capacity for restricted wall-over and wall-under conditions, fitting within a narrow RC ring-beam feature. Due to differential thermal movement between internal and external slabs in the walkways on the project, Schöck have also provided structural steel dowels to transfer loads over the joints.

A fully compliant and dependable product range - Schöck offers the widest range of structural thermal break solutions from any European supplier and in the UK enables projects to meet full compliance with the necessary Building Regulations (and the impending Future Homes Standard criteria where relevant). In addition to the Isokorb type used on this project, there are also solutions for concrete-to-steel, steel-to-steel, renovation projects – and even a maintenance free alternative to wrapped parapets.

All products have the security of independent BBA Certification, which provides NHBC approval. The temperature factor requirement (fRSI) used to indicate condensation risk, which must be equal to, or greater than 0.75 for residential buildings, is also easily met by incorporating the Isokorb. www.schoeck.com/en-gb/isokorb

SIPS House In The Black Isle

Eco-friendly house with L-shaped windows.... Fearnach House on The Black Isle in the Highlands of Scotland was designed by architect Iain Macbeath, and built by the firm’s sister company, Thermopassive. The house is a 190m² new house, built to the architect’s “Thermopassive” specification with larch timber and render walls and profiled metal roofing. It has PV solar panels with a “diverter” heating up water and charging an electric car. High levels of thermal capacity storage in an insulated concrete floor slab (so it stays warm and flattens out rapid temperature fluctuations) and very good air tightness.

There are no cold bridges (which is more important than you would think) and also a heat recovery ventilation system for fresh air. This project uses FAKRO top hung and pivot window preSelect MAX and L-shaped combination windows When asked, why FAKRO roof windows were specified for the project, Ian McBeath told us, “We have been specifying and buying FAKRO roof lights for many years. They are well-priced compared with competitive products and of excellent quality and design.

The positioning of the handles at the bottom of the window is also a major factor. It makes it much easier to operate a window with the handles at the bottom rather than the top of the window, which is often out of reach of many shorter and disabled people. The windows are also very well insulated and airtight.”

The windows have helped achieve an extremely energy-efficient home as well as flooding the upper floor rooms with an abundance of natural light. And the client loves the internal and external finishes. Based in the North of Scotland, Thermopassive Ltd is an architectowned company which specialises in highly insulated buildings (better than passive house standard) constructed in Structural Insulated Panels (SIPS). www.fakro.co.uk

Iconic Steel Windows To Be Renewed After 100 Years By Leading Manufacturer

The iconic steel windows of Adelaide House will be updated by the very company that brought them to life 100 years ago – Crittall Windows. The leading steel window and door manufacturer will return to the prominent building located on the north bank of the Thames after securing a contract to replace the century old windows with a modern steel replica. As a historic Grade II Listed office block, this isn’t a simple manufacture and install project as strict planning requirements and restrictions need to be met.

Therefore, the renowned Corporate® W20 EVO windows, fitted with 20mm insulated glass unit, have been chosen for this particular project. Thanks to their versatility in size and shape, the Corporate® W20 EVO’s successfully meet specific building limitations and also replicate the slim sightlines and hardware design of the original products manufactured by Crittall Windows in the early 1920s. While the beautiful aesthetic of the windows remains true to the authentic

style created a century ago, advances in window technology mean the performance of the product has evolved immensely. This means, the new Corporate® W20 EVO windows will not only look fantastic but will also deliver outstanding thermal performance. Russell Ager, MD at Crittall Windows, said: “It is an incredible privilege to be asked to return to Adelaide House a century after we manufactured the windows in this iconic building."

“It is essential the new steel windows perfectly complement the aesthetic of this incredible property and meet the necessary planning requirements, so we have opted for our versatile Corporate® W20 EVO windows. Their fantastic appearance and impressive performance will make the perfect addition to the building which is undergoing a huge refurbishment to transform the space into top specification offices on London’s riverside.” www.crittall-windows.co.uk

Titan Lite Deals With 200mm Movement Range At Amazon Data Centre

One of FIREFLY’s regular customers is currently making use of Titan Lite™ 120:60 fire barriers to create compartmentations to protect multiple zones within a huge new Amazon Data Centre at Hemel Hempstead, where the possible degree of structural movement predicted for the building prevented the manufacturer’s competitors from offering a viable solution.

Amersham based GSI Contract Services Ltd. is approximately halfway through a year-long specialist sub-contract for TSL, installing the high-performance Titan Lite™ 120:60 along all of the floor and roof junctions to the internal partitions, providing both integrity and insulation while accommodating relative movement of +/- 200mm.

FIREFLY’s area Technical Sales Manager, Andy Greenwood, was closely involved in offering advice on the specification and supplying project specific installation details. FIREFLY Titan Lite™ 120:60 has been developed as a flexible fire barrier to provide compartmentation of larger concealed spaces within different types of buildings including factories, warehouses, healthcare facilities and even railway stations. By offering 120 minutes integrity and 60 minutes insulation, Titan Lite™ 120:60 exceeds the minimum requirements relating to Fire Barriers as detailed in the UK Building Regulations: Approved Document B (Fire Safety). FIREFLY ‘ s barrier products are manufactured using specially treated woven glass fibre fabrics. www.tbafirefly.com

Southampton Care Home Roof Fire Protected Using A1 Rated Cemgold

IPP Ltd.’s A1 rated high density cement board, Cemgold has been used as part of the flat roof build-up on a new care home complex in Southampton, due for completion later this year, in compliance with both Building Regulations and UK building insurance guidelines. Adanac Park is being built for Hamberley Developments by Highwood Construction with North Yorkshire based sector specialist, Harris Irwin Architects tailoring the design to meet the needs of those with dementia or different neurological conditions.

The 95,000 sq. ft. facility comprises two U- shaped buildings either side of a shared service block, with the neurological clinic containing a gym as well as treatment and consulting rooms, while the residential wing has 80 high specification en-suite bedrooms offering long term accommodation. Interestingly, the 12.5 mm version of IPP Cemgold also found a slightly unusual application within the care home, being used to fireproof the rear of special Memory Boxes which have been built into the corridor walls of each of the bedrooms.

The 1200 x 2400mm sheets of Cemgold are widely specified across the construction industry for interior and exterior applications including in combination with IPP’s Magply boards, as a sheathing in rainscreen cladding build-ups or as a render substrate. With a density of 1309kg/ m3 Cemgold offers a maximum flexural strength of 12.74 MPa in the longitudinal direction, as well as good impact resistance. Then in terms of fire performance, the product is fully tested to BS EN12467 and rated A1 incombustible. www.magply.co.uk

Sto Rainscreen Cladding System Streamlines

Construction At Blar Mor

A Sto rainscreen cladding system has provided an alternative construction method for a new housing development, generating time and cost efficiencies. Located in Fort William in the Scottish Highlands, Blar Mor comprises 117 one-to-four-bedroom affordable homes, which have been built by TSL Contractors. The main contractor partnered with AFS (Scotland), a leading provider of external façade solutions, to deliver a durable cladding system for timber frame homes, removing the requirement for traditional construction.

“Given the location of the development, TSL Contractors was seeking a new façade solution which would enable them to build the homes more efficiently without comprising on quality,” explained Steve Avery, director of AFS. “Having used Sto’s products for numerous new-build projects, we recommended the StoVentec rainscreen cladding system.”

Sto reviewed wind load information and provided a Sto fixing assessment to assist AFS in the installation of the StoVentec system. Comprising StoVentec carrier boards, these were installed on the timber battens to create a ventilated cavity.

Made from 96% recycled expanded glass granulate, the carrier boards are reinforced on both sides with glass fibre mesh. StoVentec boards don’t expand or contract with temperature change, providing a stable board to receive the render build up, and they can also be butt jointed with no risk of cracking. The next stage of the installation process was to apply a layer of StoArmat Classic Plus, a cement-free base coat, embedded with Sto-Glass Fibre reinforcing mesh to the exterior of the StoVentec boards.

The final façade finish was completed with StoSilco K1.5, a silicone resin render in white, which provides high levels of water repellence, protection against harsh weather conditions and excellent water vapour permeability. Steve continued: “StoVentec is very quick and simple to install which made it ideal for Blar Mor and the inevitable wet weather conditions. The system has also provided a thermally-efficient solution with facades that will be resistant to cracking and the elements, ensuring they retain their attractive appearance.”

The 117 homes form part of the first phase at Blar Mor, which is believed to be the largest affordable housing development in the Highlands since the 1980s. Following the success of the project, the second phase is also being delivered by TSL Contractors, and all these 63 affordable homes will feature the StoVentec rainscreen cladding system as well. The Highland Council, which acquired the eight-acre site in 2015, is delivering the project in partnership with Scottish Government, a City Region Deal and Highland Housing Alliance (HHA). www.sto.co.uk

Why Automated Sliding Shutters Offer A Stunning Shading And Privacy Solution

Although still relatively rare in Britain and Ireland, horizontally sliding external shutters could play a valuable role in enabling buildings to respond to the effects of climate change and give homeowners and developers new aesthetic options.

The key benefits of this type of façade-integrated product include their potential to help control the climate inside our properties, as well as reduce the amount of glare and the risk of UV light fading interior furnishings. Interior blinds mounted on walls and window frames can help achieve these goals too, of course, as do externally mounted solar shading systems.

Bespoke sliding shutters, however, offer something very different as one outstanding luxury home project in rural Kent demonstrates.

The way that the automated sliding shutters have been incorporated into the design of Waterfield House by pH+ Architects exemplifies how they can serve a functional purpose as part of a smart building, whilst adding to the visual appeal of a residential property.

A series of external movable shutters was installed by Rundum Meir, a company usually associated only with premium bespoke garage doors.

The concept of these shutters, however, is similar to that of the company’s sliding garage door systems, which are regularly specified for unique and high-specification residential properties where the client is seeking to achieve a pleasing design and functionality.

The shutters are a key part of the façade of Waterfield House, which is a modern take on the traditional English country house. The client’s goal for the new property was to create a house which was bold and operated with precision, whilst being intimate and having a strong connection to its site. The façade is articulated elegantly, with large sliding glazed doors sitting behind the movable larch shutters.

These are opened and closed in line with the level of shading, ventilation and privacy required at a given time, whilst casting dappled shadows throughout the day. They deliver a unique external look, which changes throughout the day according to the position of the shutters. But there are variations inside the house too, with the shutters providing adaptability that changes the character of the interior spaces whilst allowing the house to respond sensitively to our ever-changing weather and climate.

The slick controllability offered by the shutters is ideally suited to the technologically advanced home. The expertise of Rundum Meir’s team ensured seamless integration of the shutters into a building packed with sophisticated technology, inspired by the client’s background, which means they open and close at the click of a button.

This reliable mechanisation of the shutters is something that many building facades could benefit from, not only for shading but to create spaces where occupants feel at their safest and most secure. The shifting light patterns resulting from the vertical slats also add an interesting dimension inside the home.

The vertical arrangement of the slats on the Waterfield House shutters makes them very different to sliding louvre systems, which have become a slightly more common sight here in the UK. These products can achieve similar objectives, but they wouldn’t have met the styling goals in this project.

The Rundum Meir team’s experience of working on bespoke projects – which is every single one of their client commissions – meant they could fulfil the unique requirements of the project. This included specifying the most suitable track system that would offer long term reliability and be compatible with the client’s home automation system, as well as being able to accommodate the larch slats in a way that was aesthetically consistent with the rest of the façade. www.rundum.co.uk

TORMAX Helps Makes Sea Lanes Brighton Accessible

Transforming this beachfront area of Brighton, Sea Lanes is the UK’s first National Open Water Swimming Centre. At the core of the development is a 50m, 6 lane open air heated swimming pool, supported by a vibrant commercial centre that includes health and fitness specialists, food and drinks providers, office space and retail outlets. Designed to deliver an accessible and inclusive environment, visitors to Sea Lanes are welcomed into the main pool building through a TORMAX automatic sliding entrance system.

The single leaf door is powered by a TORMAX 2203 drive, which at a height of just 100mm, is discreet and unobtrusive. Combining cutting-edge power electronics with proven motor technology, the drive delivers unparalleled reliability and longevity. Privately funded by a passionate group of Brighton-based businesses and open water swimming enthusiasts, Sea Lanes Brighton is centred on physical wellbeing and environmental sustainability. Ensuring the facility is commercially viable and sustainable, the scheme includes a range of carbon neutral, modular units providing flexible space for local, independent businesses.

“It has been great to be involved in such a community-driven project,” comments MD for TORMAX, Simon Roberts. “It is an inspiring development that has brought life back to a previously derelict site. “All visitors can access the facility via a ramp up to the automatic sliding entrance. Once inside, there’s level access throughout, a ‘Changing Places’ toilet and changing room, a wheelchair accessible wc and finally, assisted hoist access into the pool.”

With over 60 years of expertise in the design and manufacture of automatic entrance systems, TORMAX UK has installed revolving, sliding, swing and folding doors in a multitude of locations. With a focus on reliability combined with planned annual maintenance, many systems have been known to continue working for in excess of 25 years. Supporters of the Sea Lanes development include Brighton based swim coach Andy White, Copsemill Properties, QED Sustainable Urban Developments and SwimTrek. www.tormax.co.uk

SterlingOSB Zero PrimedPlus Selected For Cathedral Contract

A Suffolk-based scaffolding and flat roofing specialist has chosen SterlingOSB Zero PrimedPlus from West Fraser for the hoardings around repair works at the St Edmundsbury Cathedral site in Bury St Edmunds. Pro-Flat Specialist Services serves clients across much of East Anglia in the domestic, commercial and specialised historic buildings sectors. In this instance, English Heritage contacted the team when stone masons were required to carry out repairs to the centuries-old limestone walls. Given the highly visible location, the cathedral authorities wanted the scaffolding and the work itself to be smartly screened off. Pro-Flat contacted Falcon Timber in High Wycombe, its regular supplier of board materials, to discover that the merchant had West Fraser's new SterlingOSB Zero Primed Plus product available, which is fully prepared to avoid the need for painting on site.

As a sturdy board which is ideal for the construction of screening and walkways, either for privacy or to fulfil health & safety requirements, SterlingOSB Zero PrimedPlus is well able to withstand the inclement British weather too. As with all West Fraser's SterlingOSB Zero products, no extra formaldehyde is used during the manufacturing process, so it is safe to specify in hospitals, schools and other public realms. Furthermore, its ultra-smooth surface means the boards can be adorned with graphics so can be used to offer directional information as well as branding, promotional material and artwork. Being knot and void free due to the rigorous manufacturing process means they will cut cleanly while being easy to fix and durable. SterlingOSB Zero PrimedPlus is CE-marked and complies with the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC® (C012533)) and BBA Agreement requirements. For further information, visit https://uk.westfraser.com

Style Adds Space Flexibility To Scottish Offices

Style recently worked with contractor, AKP, to create space flexibility in AECOM’s new Glasgow premises. The addition of a Dorma Huppe Variflex glass and a Variflex solid moveable wall allow staff to create a meeting room within a main breakout area, as well as an additional meeting area near a social pool room and relaxation space. Both partitioning systems benefit from semi-automatic operation.

The panels are moved into place manually, whereupon impressive rubber seals automatically expand to exactly the right pressure to create an effective acoustic barrier. With the glass and solid moveable walls boasting 47dB and 46dB acoustic ratings respectively, formal and informal meetings can take place without outside disturbance.

AECOM, the world’s trusted infrastructure consulting firm, has bought the Glasgow team together on one site at the new Bothwell Street offices. Reflecting employee preferences for more balanced choices when going to the office, the city centre location boasts Scotland’s first roof-top running track,

spa-like shower facilities and over 400 cycle racks. Extending the focus on wellness to the workspace, the interior design includes workstation areas, break-out and sitting areas, individual booths for calls, open collaboration project tables, as well as a confidential project room.

“We were delighted to have been appointed for this very forward-thinking and highly sustainable building, which has been formally certified by the International WELL Building Institute,” said Angela McGowan, sales director at Style Scotland. “The Dorma Huppe moveable walls are EPD (Environmental Product Declaration) certified in accordance with ISO 14025 and EN15804, which means they are a perfect fit for this eco-friendly office.”

The glass Variflex moveable wall has a fully glazed single pass door, allowing the wall to be left in position for extended periods of time, with ease of access. The solid moveable wall features a magnetic writable surface on one side, and black laminate on other, making it practical for use during brainstorming sessions, training and workshops. www.style-partitions.co.uk

Hardie® Architectural Panel Chosen For Go Modular Project

Beam Contracting, the high-end construction firm, has chosen to utilise the Hardie® Architectural Panel, a product from James Hardie, the world leader in the manufacture of high-performance fibre cement and fibre gypsum building solutions, as part of its construction of ten modular flats in Poole in conjunction with Go Modular Technologies (UK) Ltd, the modular building manufacturer.

The decision to choose the Hardie® Architectural Panel was based on the fact that it is easy to install and delivers a cost effective, low maintenance solution with the assurance of an A2 fire rated performance. Vivalda, the independent distributor of cladding panels, supplied the materials for the project, fabricating the panels in phases to coincide with the construction schedule.

Smooth sand, one of the available textures, was chosen to match the planning specification in three of the core panel colours (Arctic White, Anthracite Grey and Cobblestone), giving the project a modern

and contemporary look, and reflecting the coastal location. Steve Hawes, Project Director at Beam Contracting commented: "This was the first time that we've used the Hardie® Architectural Panel and we were really pleased with how easy it was to install - so much so that we have subsequently added the panel as a standard specification option for Beam Contracting."

Lee Bucknall, UK Sales Manager at James Hardie, added: "Modular buildings are becoming an increasingly popular solution providing construction firms and clients with lower project costs, sustainability benefits and significantly reduced build times. Hardie® Architectural Panel is perfectly suited to supporting modular building methods providing a sustainable solution that is durable and easy to install."

www.jameshardie.co.uk

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 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 post-application to ensure that the overall design and aesthetic is not impacted.

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/

Why Automated Sliding Shutters Offer A Stunning Shading And Privacy Solution

Although still relatively rare in Britain and Ireland, horizontally sliding external shutters could play a valuable role in enabling buildings to respond to the effects of climate change and give homeowners and developers new aesthetic options.

The key benefits of this type of façade-integrated product include their potential to help control the climate inside our properties, as well as reduce the amount of glare and the risk of UV light fading interior furnishings. Interior blinds mounted on walls and window frames can help achieve these goals too, of course, as do externally mounted solar shading systems.

Bespoke sliding shutters, however, offer something very different as one outstanding luxury home project in rural Kent demonstrates.

The way that the automated sliding shutters have been incorporated into the design of Waterfield House by pH+ Architects exemplifies how they can serve a functional purpose as part of a smart building, whilst adding to the visual appeal of a residential property.

A series of external movable shutters was installed by Rundum Meir, a company usually associated only with premium bespoke garage doors.

The concept of these shutters, however, is similar to that of the company’s sliding garage door systems, which are regularly specified for unique and high-specification residential properties where the client is seeking to achieve a pleasing design and functionality.

The shutters are a key part of the façade of Waterfield House, which is a modern take on the traditional English country house. The client’s goal for the new property was to create a house which was bold and operated with precision, whilst being intimate and having a strong connection to its site. The façade is articulated elegantly, with large sliding glazed doors sitting behind the movable larch shutters.

These are opened and closed in line with the level of shading, ventilation and privacy required at a given time, whilst casting dappled shadows throughout the day. They deliver a unique external look, which changes throughout the day according to the position of the shutters. But there are variations inside the house too, with the shutters providing adaptability that changes the character of the interior spaces whilst allowing the house to respond sensitively to our ever-changing weather and climate.

The slick controllability offered by the shutters is ideally suited to the technologically advanced home. The expertise of Rundum Meir’s team ensured seamless integration of the shutters into a building packed with sophisticated technology, inspired by the client’s background, which means they open and close at the click of a button.

This reliable mechanisation of the shutters is something that many building facades could benefit from, not only for shading but to create spaces where occupants feel at their safest and most secure. The shifting light patterns resulting from the vertical slats also add an interesting dimension inside the home.

The vertical arrangement of the slats on the Waterfield House shutters makes them very different to sliding louvre systems, which have become a slightly more common sight here in the UK. These products can achieve similar objectives, but they wouldn’t have met the styling goals in this project.

The Rundum Meir team’s experience of working on bespoke projects – which is every single one of their client commissions – meant they could fulfil the unique requirements of the project. This included specifying the most suitable track system that would offer long term reliability and be compatible with the client’s home automation system, as well as being able to accommodate the larch slats in a way that was aesthetically consistent with the rest of the façade. www.rundum.co.uk