Landscape & Urban Design Issue 28 2017

Landscape & Urban Design Issue 28

November/December 2017 landud.co.uk

Designing Your Outdoor Environment

Equiparc and Dikini unveil MTL site furnishings collection

William’s Den - exceptional play whatever the weather

AHBE Landscape Architects Unveils Healing Gardens for Cedars-Sinai Medical Center

Beautiful Decking Doesn’t Have to Grow on Trees

SketchUp 2017 is here!

The smartest SketchUp yet.

Transparency

Graphics Pipeline 2.0

We’ve made big improvement to transparency, which should now render faster and at high quality to. SketchUp is also now much better at displaying multiple transparencies to provide a more realistic sense of depth across several see-through faces.

In this release, we’ve made major improvements to our graphics pipeline, allowing for performance improvements.

Now, SketchUp, 3D Warehouse, LayOut, My SketchUp, and Trimble Connect all render models using the same under-the-hood algorithms – all tuned for buttery 3D orbiting.

High DPI Modeling

There’s more!

We’ve tuned snapping and inferencing for high definition monitors (like Apple’s Retina Display).

Edge weights have also been smart-scaled. You can back away from your screen now...

Perpendicular Face Inferencing Have you mastered parallel inferencing? We’ve added a ‘Perpendicular to Face’ inference.

Hover a face; SketchUp will helpfully snap to its perpendicular.

• Smart Offset

• High Fidelity .DWG – for easier exporting

• LayOut Tables; manage spreadsheets in LayOut

• Extension Manager

Contact Elmtec, Sketchup’s distribution Partner in the UK

E: sales@elmtec.co.uk

T: 01844 263750

W: www.elmtec.co.uk

CONTENTS ISSUE 28

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AHBE LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS

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SHED

GET IN TOUCH Publishing Director Martin Holmes martin@mhmagazine.co.uk

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MTL COLLECTION

Editor Lorna Davidson Tel: 01304 806 039 lorna@landud.co.uk

Sales Director Will Reed Tel: 01227 392524 will@landud.co.uk

Creative Director Josh Holmes josh@mhmagazine.co.uk

Digital Manager Jamie Bullock jamie@mhmagazine.co.uk

Studio Designer James Sayer james@mhmagazine.co.uk

www.landud.co.uk T: 01304 806 039 E: info@landud.co.uk

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CHARCON

INTERNATIONAL GARDEN FEST

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in Landscape & Urban Design however, the publishers accept no responsibility for the claims or opinions made by advertisers, manufactures or contributors.

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

䜀愀爀搀攀渀 䈀礀 圀椀氀猀漀渀 䴀挀圀椀氀氀椀愀洀 匀琀甀搀椀漀

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Landscape & Urban Design

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AHBE Landscape Architects Unveils Healing Gardens for Cedars-Sinai Medical Center AHBE Landscape Architects TEXT AHBE Landscape Architects

4 Landscape & Urban Design

PHOTO @heliphoto.net

T

he Healing Gardens for Cedars-Sinai Medical Center create an environment in the heart of the city that help to promote healing, health and well-being.

AHBE Landscape Architects, an esteemed Los Angeles-based firm known for its expertise in designing thoughtful, evocative landscapes that allow for contemplation and reflection, has created a healing environment at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center for patients, hospital staff, and visiting families and friends.

Unique solution transforms a concrete plaza into a restorative space in the city.

The existing site consisted of a concrete plaza atop a multi-level garage. Using the metaphor of human skin, AHBE developed a multi-layered landscape solution that protects the existing building’s structural and mechanical integrity and accounts for an existing drainage system, emergency access, lighting and way finding, as well as extreme weather conditions.

The solution – a unique, green roof-inspired system built onto the plaza’s existing structure – maximizes the impact of the landscape while minimizing construction and alterations to the existing building.

“The Cedars-Sinai Healing Garden Plaza project presented several constraints that encouraged innovative thinking,” explains Calvin Abe, FASLA, RLA, who led the project team on behalf of AHBE Landscape Architects from concept design through construction administration.

“The terraces had previously been unused for many years.

We aimed to heal the epidermis of the complex by grafting a piece of living, breathing landscape above the existing parking decks.”

AHBE further redefined the space architecturally by creating four distinct gardens – the Garden of Whimsy, Blue Garden, Plaza Garden and Education Garden.

g Garden of Whimsy is intended to lift and energize the human spirit. The garden features a sculptural pavilion

by Ball Nogues Studio and undulating planters that when illuminated at night creates a scenic view from the patients’ rooms above. The pavilion knits together

Landscape & Urban Design

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AHBE Landscape Architects the landscape environment and creates a defining visual moment for visitors.

Blue Garden is a counterpoint to the Garden of Whimsy.

Given its shady orientation throughout the year, this garden is about quiet, coolness and calm. Intended as a meditative place, AHBE located smaller, closely positioned seating areas in the garden for private conversations or solitude. Small circular reflecting pools with custom “firefly” light fixtures are placed throughout the landscape. The garden’s lights will change colors and enhance an experience that replicates serenity in nature.

Plaza Garden is a flexible event space with moveable and convertible furniture that functions as an outdoor cafe for a restaurant and a large courtyard space for tented receptions and larger events.

Planters in the Plaza Garden feature textural foliage and large-scaled plants, such as agaves, supplemented with succulents and other shade loving plants. g

Education Garden is intended to illustrate to the general public how plants from Mediterranean climates, known as “adaptive natives” with similar rainfall from around the world can be adaptable to Southern California. The garden incorporates spaces for outdoor lectures, health fairs and informal meetings. g

The collaborative design supports Cedars-Sinai Medical Center’s mission “AHBE’s design for the hospital’s outdoor plaza

6 Landscape & Urban Design

enhances our ability to provide quality patient care which is our number one priority,” notes Zeke Triana, Vice President, Facilities Planning, Design and Construction, at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. He adds, “The wonderful feedback we have received reflects our goal for this project – to create a place for healing, health and wellbeing.”

Project team: Cedars-Sinai (project team: Zeke Triana, Adrienne Haynes, Kevin Hsu); AHBE Landscape Architects; Hensel Phelps, Contractor; Frank Webb Architects;

HLB Lighting Design; KPFF Consulting Engineers (civil and structural engineering); JOMA Design Studio (fountain design); M-E Engineers, Inc. (MEP engineers); Ball-Nogues Design Studio (pavilion design); SKA Design (graphics and signage); AECOM (cost estimating); Mollenhauer Group (surveying); Sweeney + Associates (irrigation design); and Curtainwall Design Consulting.

All photography by Heliphoto.

Additional images, and/or an interview with Calvin Abe, are available upon request.

ABOUT AHBE LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS AHBE is an award-winning landscape architecture firm that believes in the pursuit of the greater good. Each project begins as an exploration about how the site is ecologically connected to the larger network of natural lands, open spaces and other landscapes.

Seeing landscapes through the lens of infrastructure, AHBE takes a holistic approach to solving design problems.

The firm’s commitment to sustainable design guides them to ask questions, explore new ideas and think innovatively.

Out of this process, beauty and performance emerge from the landscape.

ABOUT CEDARS-SINAI Since its beginning in 1902, Cedars-Sinai has evolved to meet the healthcare needs of one of the most diverse regions in the nation, continually setting new standards in quality and innovation in patient care, research, teaching and community service.

Today, Cedars-Sinai is widely

known for its national leadership in transforming healthcare for the benefit of patients.

Cedars-Sinai is one of the largest nonprofit academic medical centers in the U.S. with 886 licensed beds, 2,100 physicians, 2,800 nurses and thousands of other healthcare professionals and staff. Clinical programs range from primary care for preventing, diagnosing and treating common conditions to specialized treatments for rare, complex and advanced illnesses. In addition, CedarsSinai serves the community through its Medical Network, which includes the highly rated Cedars-Sinai Medical Group and Cedars-Sinai Health Associates.

Cedars-Sinai has consistently been named one of America’s Best Hospitals by U.S. News & World Report, has received the National Research Corporation’s Consumer Choice Award 18 years in a row for providing the highest quality medical care in Los Angeles,

and has the longest running Magnet designation for nursing excellence in California.

Cedars-Sinai is a leader in the clinical care and research of heart disease, cancer and brain disorders, among other areas. Pioneering research achievements include using cardiac stem cells to repair damaged hearts, developing minimally invasive surgical techniques and discovering new types of drugs to target cancer more precisely.

Cedars-Sinai also impacts the future of healthcare through education programs that encompass everything from highly competitive medical residency and fellowship programs to a biomedical science and translational medicine PhD program, advanced training for nurses and educational opportunities for allied health professionals. Most notably, CedarsSinai demonstrates a longstanding commitment to strengthening the Los Angeles community through wide-ranging programs that improve the health of its most vulnerable residents. www.ahbe.com

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Street Design supplied the timber tree planters for The Foundry, Fulham Palace Road, W6 8JA. The Diplomat tree planter was specified in FSC® Certified treated redwood, with a natural finish.

Diplomat tree planters

Street Design

Street Design UK BASED DESIGNERS & MANUFACTURERS OF STREET FURNITURE & LANDSCAPE PRODUCTS

LED Uplighter

ROOF GARDENS RETAIL RESIDENTIAL EDUCATION HEALTH CARE

Diplomat roof garden planter

HOTEL & LEISURE COMMERCIAL PUBLIC REALM

Teak Garden Furniture

Solid Teak Wave bench in Holland Park

A stunning set created for a client Hart Table and Carlton Armchairs

S

olid Oak Hardwood Furniture based in the North East for nigh on 90 years. Still creating wonderful garden, park, street and memorial furniture. Our furniture is to be found everywhere from Cape Wrath to Lands End, and lots of places inbetween!

We joined BALI earlier this year and look forward to assisting all you Landscape Designers, Architects and contractors when you need something special or indeed a simple patio set to add charm and character to your clients new garden.

A bespoke Iroko Gladiator table being lifted over the house

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We can create Pergolas and have actually just delivered one with some beautiful furniture to Calvados. What a stunning area of France.

Our furniture is normally created using Teak, Iroko, Oak and British Sweet Chestnut – other timbers are available for massive planters etc so just ask! We are exceptionally bust at present so please wherever possible allow several weeks for us to create your furniture. Remember you are always welcome to visit our works in Hartlepool.

Solid top Gladiator and matching Hadrian Benches

Our new website should be hitting the screens very shortly, I always find our customers and friends are the very best critics so please do keep any eye out and advise if you find any errors or wish to get us to include something – suggestions are always welcome as are criticisms.

A solid Teak Lion in a beautiful cottage garden

Teak 2100 Rhapsody beautifully situated in North Yorkshire

Call on 01429 890808, Email sales@sohf.co.uk or sales@teakgardenfurniture.co.uk visit our website www.sohf.co.uk -

Speak soon and HAPPY LANDSCAPING

Landscape & Urban Design

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New Futuristic Street Light Luminaire From Aura Light Has Smart Features

Rockford Our diverse and evolving range of products are imported from over 22 countries around the world. From the contemporary to the traditional - any style and any taste is catered for.

Our range incorporates products for interior and exterior use as well as domestic and commercial applications, making Rockford your reliable supply partner, and the name to remember for your Natural Stone requirements.

The successful inception of our contracts department at the end of 2008, solidified our reputation and standing within our industry. In just its first year, our contracts department saw the completion of many projects in both the commercial

and residential sector and is developing rapidly, forging new and lasting relationships with architects, designers, contractors, builders, tilers etc…

In conjunction with our contracts department, we also offer a bespoke sourcing service, so if you can’t find what you’re looking for on our website do not fear, as we can produce almost anything you need, to your exact specification in the majority of our materials.

No project is too small or too large, let us know today what you are looking for and see how our team can be of assistance.

Rockford – 01606 841 000 www.rockfordcompany.co.uk

Aura Light has taken a step

in Sweden, the Indico lu-

into the future with its

minaire is now available in

new Indico LED road and

the UK and across Europe to

street light luminaire. The

modernise street lighting.

innovative exterior lighting

The luminaire is available in

solution not only breathes

35W, 60W, 90W and 120W

a stylish and contemporary

for a low-energy LED street

design but incorporates

lighting solution to replace

intelligent features to create

less efficient HPS street

an advanced street lighting

lamps.

scheme.

Launched last year by Aura Light UK’s parent company

Aura Light www.aura-light.co.uk 01952 250800

Flowpoint Flowpoint ECO Flowpoint Smooth

Protect your paving with UltraScape’s Paving Guard.

• Stablises jointing sand • Protects from staining • Limits chewing gum adhesion

For more information call 01827 254402 or email ultrascape@instarmac.co.uk 12 Landscape & Urban Design

ultrascape.co.uk

a

A sound investment – minimises life cost Sioo are leaders in wood protection using silicate technology. We provide a

highly effective proven system to protect wood of all types. It gives long life and a beautiful natural surface with even colouration and is friendly to people and the environment. An example of a Sioo project is Ålleberg High School, a low energy building in Falköping, Sweden.

Made in Sweden

Sioo Wood Protection AB | www.sioo.co.uk

Environmentally friendly

SiOO:X

SiOO:x is a patented (WO2007111556) silicon-based twopart wood surface treatment process that was developed in Sweden over 15 years ago, where it finds extensive use in the DIY market. The surface protector acts to prevent the wood protector from leaching out until it has cured.

The wood protector undergoes a chemical reaction with atmospheric carbon dioxide to deposit insoluble silica particles in the wood. Light scattering from the silica particles gives and even silvery-grey appearance to the wood surface, looking just like weathered wood. The silica envelope that forms is completely stable to ultraviolet light, unlike oil and varnishes, which are based on carbon chemistry. It is the even-ness of the silvery-grey appearance that is one of the most attractive features of the product. But the product needs to be applied correctly in order to obtain optimum performance. Factory finishing is always to be preferred because the product can be applied under controlled conditions. The product works best when there is good penetration of the wood material

and rough sawn surfaces are always preferred. Where planed surfaces are specified it is important to sand the surface to break through the machining glaze that is often present in order to allow the product to penetrate the wood. Curing is also accelerated with higher temperatures, but applying in direct sunlight is best avoided, since rapid drying of the water-based product will limit diffusion into the wood. Application in damp, cold conditions is also to be avoided, since curing is slowed down and there is a risk that the wood protector will be leached out before curing has occurred. For these reasons a factory-applied finish by a SiOO:x accredited treater is always the best option. The treatment can be applied using brushing or spraying and good penetration is the key to good performance.

Landscape & Urban Design

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MTL Collection Equiparc and Dikini unveil MTL site furnishings collection

D

rawing inspiration from one of North America’s most colorful

cities, Equiparc and Dikini are proud to introduce their collaborative MTL Collection of site furnishings for urban landscape design projects.

Marking a second collaboration between the manufacturer and

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designer, the MTL Collection is being unveiled during the World Design Summit in Montreal in October, with a simultaneous west coast launch during the annual American Society of Landscape Architects expo in Los Angeles.

UNIVERSAL INSPIRATION Serving a clientele of landscape architects from across North America, Equiparc manufactures

the commissioned creations of revolving designers, ensuring fresh and innovative additions to its annual site furnishings product line. Having worked with Dikini previously on ‘Dimanche’, Equiparc turned to the design firm to lead its new MTL Collection, inspired by the city of Montreal’s celebration of 375 years of rich history.

From Equiparc’s perspective, it was crucial that the collection

Equiparc & Dikini

provide a solution to address planner needs for flexibility by enabling broad creative license, while delivering a rich experience for users.

“MTL is a complete collection, including benches, bistro tables, waste and recycling receptacles, planters and bike racks,” notes Nicolas Thuot of Equiparc. “Though inspired by the vibrancy and warmth of Montreal culture, the collection’s universal qualities are easily adaptable to any public space in North America.”

Combining Equiparc’s technical expertise with Dikini’s innovative urban design strategies, the MTL Collection has emerged as an efficient and affordable system for urban planners that refuses to compromise on quality and durability. A signature of Equiparc’s site

furnishings, the new MTL Collection was conceived, designed and manufactured in a choice of wood, metal and plastic, rendering it suitable for any environment.

FRESH PERSPECTIVES After accepting the commission to create the new MTL Collection, Dikini faced the challenge of creating a delicate balance between the manufacturer’s vision and the needs of planners and users.

The design goal was to provide planners with optimal flexibility that would empower them to create unique spaces that respect their site identities, while ensuring that users would benefit from practical solutions reflective of increasing diversity and social interaction.

“Equiparc wanted a broad range

Equiparc & Dikini of products, with an underlying homage that reflects Montreal’s 375th anniversary,” says Philippe Carreau, co-founder of Dikini. “The challenge was to respect that vision, but in very subtle ways that would ensure the collection’s adaptability to an entire continent.”

The result is a design focused on planner needs for public spaces, subtly infused with warmth and dynamic lifestyle influences that characterize the vibrant city. With the MTL collection, Dikini has delivered a truly modular system designed for maximum planning flexibility. Relatively simple in their aesthetics, MTL furnishings offer a formal simplicity that speaks to the needs of architects and planners, while ultimately providing users with a fresh and dynamic environment.

Empowerment through design MTL is a modular furnishings system that enables planners to configure unique seating arrangements and material combinations. Each product is engineered with respect to the unique strengths of its material composition, resulting in a diverse collection supported by strong and durable components. By applying the strengths and character of each material when and where it really matters, MTL’s metal and wood furnishings pair together coherently. The system’s structural engineering allows for many permutations of its basic components, with interchangeable backrests, shelves and armrests that can be positioned to create continuous or alternating rows.

MTL’s formal language is entirely coherent. The collection’s plug

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and play approach leverages the modularity of its components, seamlessly juxtaposing closed and well-rounded shapes to provide optimal aesthetics from every angle and in every configuration. Transcending the concept of street furniture, MTL is a dynamic extension of attitude and lifestyle designed to stimulate social interaction.

The collection’s unique features, including log backrests and back-to-back benches, provide an environment that invokes both chance encounters and planned gatherings.

ABOUT EQUIPARC For more than 30 years, Equiparc has been manufacturing street furniture with impacts that extend well

beyond their functionality, enlivening everyday life through the beautification of public spaces. Based in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec, Equiparc partners with reputable designers to create customizable site furniture for the finest urban environments.

Combining innovative design, quality, durability and expertise, Equiparc has built a solid reputation through collaborations with top professionals in landscape architecture, industrial and urban design.

The company’s use of high density wood, aluminum, hot dipped galvanized steel, powder coated paint, stainless steel anchors and ultraresistant recycled plastic has established Equiparc site

furniture as the gold standard in North America. The company’s product line has contributed to the beautification of prestigious sites including Promenade Samuel-De Champlain in Quebec City, the Quartier des Spectacles in Montreal and the Rotary Play Garden in San Jose.

ABOUT DIKINI Founded by Eugénie Manseau and Philippe Carreau, Dikini’s unique approach to industrial design is founded in its commitment to creating sustainable, durable objects that are strongly anchored in their physical and social contexts. Working closely with manufacturers and urban project managers to

create objects that contribute to the common good. Dikini’s innovative designs have earned the firm numerous accolades, including a Good Design Award from The Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design for its collaborative water playground design, ‘Water Journey’. In 2013, Grand Prix du Design presented Dikini with the Urban Furnishings prize in the Industrial Design category for its design of Equiparc’s ‘Dimanche’ collection.

For more information on Equiparc products, visit: www.equiparc.com For more information on Dikini designs, visit: www. studiodikini.com

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Fine Porcelain Pointing

GftK’s vdw 815 Paving Joint Mortar for Perfect Pointing Another great ‘Porcelain Pointing’ job using GftK’s vdw 815 Paving Joint Mortar that was the ideal solution for grouting these top quality Emperor Limerick Porcelain slabs. These are larger format paving (larger format generally means the paving units are larger than 400 x 400mm) and so the jointing mortar must be suitable for smaller joints and ease of application across larger surfaces without staining or creating additional cleaning works.

The advanced vdw 815 material is specifically designed for narrower joints (down to 3mm) in addition to its easy wet-slurry application.

GftK’s Epoxy Resin Bound technology ensures no dusting, full homogeneous mixing and fast application, allowing pointing and finishing of the work in bad weather, even in the pouring rain. As Richard Bickler of the specialist contractors Arbour said – “with GftK Grouts the fickle British Weather does not stop you finishing the job (and getting paid of course!), plus the result is the most durable and jet washing resistant paving grout there is! Finally on this project the colour was very important as the owners wanted to see the paving rather than the resin and it blended in really well.“

Fast Wet-Slurry Application for a Top Quality Finish The owners had a new pool with top quality porcelain tiles selected for the paved terrace surround and wanted to be sure that the pointing they used was going to be durable in this environment, particularly in that it would not discolour or stain the tiles. Plus the Architect was concerned that it was suitable for the narrow joints between these larger format pavers. They had seen other quality porcelain installations ruined by poor quality pointing with cement mortars and even tile grouts that are best kept indoors!

After researching the subject with their paving suppliers they found GftK’s vdw 815+ Paving Joint Mortar from NCC Streetscape, which is undoubtedly the best pointing to use on such porcelain projects. GftK’s vdw 815+ is quick and easy to install by wet-slurry application, which also means no waiting

Contact: David MacKay at NCC Streetscape Limited 01257 266696 sales@nccstreetscape.co.uk

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for dry weather to prepare, grout, cure and go into service. It is a unique, ‘state of the art’ material based on epoxy-bound, graded sands, purpose designed for narrow (3-5mm x> 20mm deep) joints in quality porcelain and prestige natural stone paving.

GftK’s vdw 815+ is none staining (unlike cement based or gunapplied materials), and well-proven to be very durable in this type of environment – As well as looking great with top quality porcelain of course!

GftK Paving Joint Mortars for Natural Stone, Porcelain and Concrete Paving Ideal for both NEW and REFURBISHMENT works because you can: • • • • •

Work in wet weather and at low temperatures (from +3ºC) Use fast wet slurry and self-compacting application Get off your knees and work standing up Have greatly reduced staining issues and eliminate surface cleaning work Fast curing and opening for service

Whilst also achieving: • • • •

Frost, de-icing salt, boring insect and weed growth resistance Pressure jet washing and even mechanical road sweeper resistance Optimum strength correlation (compressive to tensile) for small format paving Permeable joints for SUDS

Paving Joint Mortars for ALL Types of Paved and Trafficked areas, from Domestic Patios and Driveways to Town Centres, Market Squares and Highways

Save Time and Money on Every Project For more information: Website: www.nccstreetscape.co.uk Telephone: 01257 266696 Email: sales@nccstreetscape.co.uk Paving Joint Mortars from

Hard landscaping to help shape positive visitor experience at Snowhill retail park in Wakefield

C

harcon, the commercial hard landscaping division of Aggregate Industries, has successfully completed a significant delivery to the new ÂŁ12m Snowhill Retail Park in Wakefield.

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Appointed by contractors, Kier and Savills, Charcon consulted with architects, The Harris Partnership, to recommend the best hard landscaping products to complement the aesthetics of the overall project.

More than 2,250m2 of Andover Textured Block Paving was

specified in a range of grey hues, including Light Grey, Silver Fleck and Chestnut, plus 400 units of Andover Textured Flag Paving in Silver Fleck and Light Grey.

Incorporating uniquely formulated Cornish aggregates to maximise performance, durability and aesthetics,

Charcon

Andover Textured offers the hard-wearing performance of granite at an affordable price. It’s ideal for prestigious pedestrian areas and building developments, including town centres and shopping precincts. It features a finely textured surface, is available in 12 sizes, offering a myriad of design options, and the breadth of shades can be used to complement and contrast one another to dramatic effect. An Infilta concrete block permeable paver is also available where sustainable urban drainage is a requirement.

Mike Davies, Sector Marketing Manager for Charcon, comments: “We are delighted to have been able to provide our product expertise and knowledge to the Snowhill Retail Park project. Charcon is pleased to be supporting Wakefield’s vision for the wider Snowhill development, with beautiful, contemporary landscaping helping to shape a positive experience for people visiting the centre.”

Completed in May, Snowhill Retail Park officially opened to the public this summer, bringing with it 250 local jobs. The food anchored retail centre forms the first phase of the wider Snowhill development, along the A650 in Newton Bar, which received planning permission in 2009.

For further information, please visit www.charcon.com ABOUT CHARCON Aggregate Industries is a leading player in the construction and infrastructure industries. It produces and supplies a wide range of construction materials including aggregates, asphalt, readymixed concrete and precast concrete products. It also produces, imports and supplies cementitious materials and offers a national road surfacing and contracting service.

It prides itself on best practice in sustainability having become the first company to be certificated to BES 6001, The Framework Standard for the Responsible Sourcing of Construction Products, developed by the BRE (Building Research Establishment) and a founding member of the UK Green Building Council.

Aggregate Industries is a proud member of the LafargeHolcim Group.

More information is available on www.aggregate.com.

The Charcon division of the business offers the commercial sector a comprehensive range of paving, natural stone, kerbing and drainage via its hard landscaping product range. Charcon prides itself on building strong relationships with clients, including a full design and support service from project concept to completion, and providing innovative and integrated solutions for architects, civil engineers, landscape professionals, housebuilders and contractors in almost every aspect of the construction industry.

More information is available on www.charcon.com.

ABOUT LAFARGEHOLCIM With a well-balanced presence in 90 countries and a focus on Cement, Aggregates and Concrete, LafargeHolcim (SIX Swiss Exchange, Euronext Paris: LHN) is the world leader in the building materials industry. The Group has 100,000 employees around the world and combined net sales of CHF 29.5 billion in 2015. LafargeHolcim is the industry benchmark in R&D and serves from the individual homebuilder to the largest and most complex project with the widest range of value-adding products, innovative services and comprehensive building solutions. With a commitment to drive sustainable solutions for better building and infrastructure and to contribute to a higher quality of life, the Group is best positioned to meet the challenges of increasing urbanization.

More information is available on www.lafargeholcim.com Landscape & Urban Design

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International Garden Festival / Reford Gardens Call for Proposals - 19th International Garden Festival at the Reford Gardens

T

he International Garden Festival, presented at the Jardins de Métis / Reford Gardens in the Gaspésie region of Québec, Canada is preparing its 19th edition and is issuing an international call for proposals to select designers who will create the new temporary gardens that will be presented from June 22, 2018.

PLAYSAGES II – GO OUTSIDE AND PLAY! Advances in technology have taken play indoors and interiorized play to the point that games happen in a virtual world with friends who are connected but not connecting.

Not only is there a nature deficit disorder, but also a nature knowledge deficit. Our isolation from the world outside deprives us of marvelling at the beauty of natural cycles. The Festival has always promoted the creation and curation of interactive spaces. The 2017 edition of the Festival exhibited six new installations on the theme of Playsages to the delight of nearly 10,000 children who came with their families, day camps and school groups – and enjoyed moments of joy, discovery and multiple opportunities to play.

The Festival is continuing its exploration of play with Playsages II – Go Outside and Play! and invites designers to imagine magical spaces where families will congregate and play together. This is an opportunity to play with our sense, create playgrounds that bring pleasure to all ages and orchestrate transformational spaces that offer visitors an opportunity to connect with nature.

This call for proposals

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is open to all landscape architects, architects, artists and multidisciplinary teams from Canada and abroad.

For complete information on this call for proposals, those interested should consult the web site: www.projects. internationalgardenfestival.ca.

The deadline for the submission of entries is MONDAY DECEMBER 4, 2017 at 5 pm EST.

ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL GARDEN FESTIVAL The International Garden Festival is recognized as one of the most important events of its kind in North America and one of the leading annual garden festivals in the world.

Since 2000, more than one million visitors have discovered over 175 contemporary and ephemeral gardens created by designers from 15 countries.

This artistic and tourism event also gives visitors a chance to discover inspiring spaces bringing together the visual arts, architecture, design, landscape and the environment. The Festival is an annual rendez-vous for admirers

of contemporary gardens and design as well as offering a unique creative space for those involved in the renewal of this art form. The Festival also presents La Grande Table, a culinary happening bringing together chefs and agricultural producers from the region to share their wealth of expertise with the public and foster creative avenues for culinary cooperation.

ABOUT LES JARDINS DE MÉTIS / REFORD GARDENS Les Jardins de Métis / Reford Gardens are located on the shores of the St. Lawrence and Mitis rivers in Québec, Canada. Created from 1926 to 1958 by avid gardener and plant collector, Elsie Reford, the gardens are a national historic site designated. Les Jardins de Métis are considered one of the premier gardens in North America. They are an obligatory stop for all those visiting eastern Québec and the Gaspésie region. Hydro-Québec has been a major partner of the Reford Gardens since 1999. Visit the www.refordgardens.com for more details. www.refordgardens.com/english

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Shed your winter weather worries

F

or many people their shed is an extension of their home, especially now that sheds are often used for so much more than simple storage solutions. It makes sense, then, to prepare your shed for the impending winter weather, just as you would prepare your house.

down with a diluted bleach solution as soon as you can to prevent it from spreading.

Also, a quick squirt of oil in the lock will mean that you won’t be struggling with a rusty lock when spring comes around.

Richard Frost, CEO of the Posh Shed Company, offers his top tips to ensure that your shed stands the test of time, and survives whatever weather winter decides to throw at it.

If you notice the snow piling up on the roof of your shed, take a few minutes to clear it off with a broom or rake. Snow and ice can weigh down the roof of a shed causing problems over time. Remember, do some winter maintenance to avoid unpleasant surprises in the spring.

Firstly, ensure that the air gap is maintained under the base and around all sides; check on an annual basis to make sure that there is not a build-up of debris growing around it. Open doors and windows whenever possible to keep an airflow going. If do you notice any small mould growths appearing on the inside of your shed, wipe

Richard Frost, commented: “It is important that sheds are given a bit of TLC as winter arrives. All of our sheds are built to last but, being a wooden product in an English climate, there will be a little maintenance needed to ensure that your product remains in tip top condition. Provided this is the case, we would expect your

24 Landscape & Urban Design

shed to last for many, many years.”

The Posh Shed Company only use high quality materials and each stage of their shed design, build and finishing process is carried out by skilled craftsmen in its Herefordshire workshops.

The paint that is used contains a wood preservative, which should only need repainting every 2-4 years.

Posh Sheds guarantee against structural and design defect for two years, timber that is tanalised is guaranteed against rot and insect attack for 10 years, and if Polycarbonate glazing sheet has been used, it is guaranteed unbreakable for the life of the product.

For more information about the Posh Shed Company, and how its sheds can stand the test of time, please visit www. theposhshedcompany.co.uk or call 01544 387101.

Call us

Learn more

01296 481220

osmouk.com

DECKING-OILS

Osmo Meets The Demands For Wooden Decking Osmo UK, the eco-friendly wood and finishes expert, offers a range of decking oils to protect and maintain the beauty and quality of exterior decking. The product range provides resistance against water and dirt, while also offering an appealing satin oilbased protective finish.

Variety of colours and unsurpassed durability!

Made from natural plant oils, organic pigments and water-repellent additives, the micro-porous finish allows the wood to breathe, a factor that is essential for exterior wood.

DECKING-OIL: Highest quality protection for wood decking

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The eco-friendly ingredients help to regulate the wood’s moisture content, reducing swelling or shrinking, whilst enhancing the natural characteristics of the wood. The finish also prevents the wood from cracking, flaking, peeling or blistering.

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Osmo Decking Oil is available from Osmo UK direct or from its nationwide network of stockists. For more information contact Osmo UK on 01296 481220, email info@osmouk.com, or alternatively visit www.osmouk.com.

TREX DECKING

Trex, the world’s No 1 alternative decking brand, offers an innovative, stylish and eco-friendly way to bring any garden project to life.

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For future maintenance, no sanding is necessary; simply recoat the surface when required.

The high-performance wood alternative, composite decking is comprised of more than 95 percent recycled materials, whilst providing the look and feel of real wood, making it the optimal material for creating an enviable al fresco living space.

Offering an elegant finish and requiring minimal maintenance, Trex resists fading, scratching and mold growth so, unlike wooden decking, it won’t rot, warp, crack, split or splinter.

Trex never needs sanding, oiling or staining – and spills and debris are easily washed away with soap and water. With each board protected on three sides for superior defence against severe weather and heavy foot traffic, Trex decking will retain its good looks even after years of wet British winters.

Trex decking is available locally through Arbordeck stores http://www.arbordeck.co.uk/ with prices starting from £75m² including VAT (tax) and secret fixings.

Visit www.uk.trex.com for more information.

Landscape & Urban Design

25

Ibiza villa M employs invisible system

Pioneering decking system provides beauty and comfort for private terrace ario Rodriguez and his team at Yvyra, which specialises in wood floorings, have recently completed the installation of a roof terrace for an impressive private villa located in Vista Alegra, on the south west coast of Ibiza. Kebony, a beautiful wood recommended by leading architects, was installed by Mario and his team using the innovative Exterpark Magnet patented decking system: 100% accessible wood deck along with invisible profile for the terrace, which enjoys panoramic views of the island.

Through the choice of Kebony wood and Exterpark decking system the exterior wooden

26 Landscape & Urban Design

floor has the appearance and comfort expected from indoor flooring. The patented technology of Exterpark’s invisible profile and natural aesthetic of Kebony timber creates a smooth, contemporary finish without screws on the surface or gaps between the boards.

The system also improves the practicality and safety of the terrace, preventing high heels, food and valuables from slipping through the gaps.

Exterpark Magnet decking was developed by Yvyra in 2014, it is the first system which makes it possible to remove and put back any single board with a one-handed tool. Boards are clipped in

and out with great ease and rapidity, decreasing installation time and improving product features such as accessibility, functionality and longevity.

The system features special grooves on the underside of the decking boards that slot onto magnet clips mounted on aluminium joists. There are spacers between boards to allow for expansion and drainage, and blocking units prevent movement keeping

the boards in the same place.

This pioneering system is a straightforward technique, which meant it took just three weeks to install the deck of this beautiful private villa and, thanks to low-maintenance Kebony wood, the deck will not require any additional treatment beyond normal cleaning. The sustainable timber is highly resistant to extreme climates, and therefore a fitting choice for the exposed

location of the terrace beside the sea.

Developed in Norway, the patented Kebony technology uses an environmentally friendly process, which permanently enhances the properties of sustainable softwood with a bio-based liquid derived from agricultural crop waste. By polymerising the wood’s cell walls, the wood gains greatly improved Landscape & Urban Design

27

durability and dimensional stability, giving it characteristics similar to those of tropical hardwood. Over its prolonged lifecycle, Kebony gradually develops a beautiful silvergrey patina without affecting the woods durability and dimensional stability. Kebony was the perfect choice for this decking due to its smooth nature, which provides a pleasant feeling for those with bare feet, and the wood does not get too hot making it the perfect space for the owners and guests to enjoy during the height of the Ibizan summer.

28 Landscape & Urban Design

In addition, Kebony is FSC®certified and carries the Nordic Ecolabel called Swan.

Mario Rodriguez, Export Director of Yvyra comments: “Kebony played an important role in the success of this project. The owners are now able to enjoy their private terrace which was particularly fast to install, taking just three weeks and accessing any part of the underfloor easily. Both the Client and the Architect were incredibly pleased with the final outcome and I am looking forward to using Kebony again.”

Adrian Pye, International Sales Director at Kebony added: “We are delighted to be working with Mario and his talented team at Yvyra; this innovative decking system is a real feat of ingenuity and Kebony has the stability and durability to ensure the boards remain in place. We are excited to continue working with Mario and to discover how this system can be further developed.” www.yvyra.es/en/

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THE PERFECT PARTNER FOR YOUR OUTDOOR CARE AND MAINTENANCE NEEDS Powerful and robust yet quiet, Kärcher’s battery-powered grounds care tools deliver high-quality results and are ideal for prolonged periods of use in public or noise sensitive areas.

50% less noise and 80% reduction in vibrations vs combustion models Emission-free operation with up to 90% lower lifetime costs Interchangeable, long-lasting 50V lithium-ion batteries Rapid recharge in as little as 25 minutes To find out how Kärcher’s Park & City solutions can make a difference to your business call: 01295 752142 or email: cleaning@karcher.co.uk

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Airlite Path Light

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Supremely Weatherproof / Illuminates Beautifully

These cutting-edge alternatives to heavy-duty bollard lights look like high-grade Stainless Steel, but are in fact crafted from strong 3mm thick ‘Anodised Aluminium’. Specifiers need not worry about the high cost associated with high grade Stainless Steel. For a fraction of the price, this supremely weatherproof, non-corrosive material is well-suited to bad weather and coastal environments. A protective layer is formed over the polished surface which lasts indefinitely.

The 'bubble-effect’ in the solid resin head is pleasing in daylight, and beautiful at night. It acts as a standard path light and as an uplighter - if placed beneath trees the effect is amazing! LED bulbs are accom-

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modated, and dichroic coloured lenses can create amazing colours!

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LED PATH LIGHT

Specifications: 240v 12w LED (CREE XTE) 30,000 Hrs. 3.5mm Thick Aluminium - IP65 Graphite Black or Garden Green Daylight White 6500K or Warm White 3000K Bright Lumens Output - 750 - 850Lm Surface Mount Options of 0.6m or 1.0m

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“A marriage made in heaven” is how fibre optics specialist Starscape describes the combination of modern LED lighting and optical fibres. “LEDs offer economy and long service life, while fibre optics allow you to reduce the number of potential failure points in an installation and to distribute light from easily accessible nodes around the site,” says Starscape's sales director Peter Fagan.

“Traditionally, the great problem with embedding lights of any kind in a structure is what you do when they fail,” explains Fagan. “Replacing a single failed light fitting may be difficult from a technical perspective and as the years go by there's also the issue of being able to actually find a matching replacement.”

However, since fibre optics allow you to separate the light generation from the light output you can bypass this potential problem, he reasons. As long as the LED-based light source is accessible, maintenance is no challenge, and in the worst case

Starscape

scenario a failed light source can be replaced in a matter of seconds.

“One of the unique features of fibre optic lighting is that you can promise your client that by the time a light source is eventually needs replacing, the new unit will almost certainly be more powerful, more economical, more versatile and probably cheaper than the original model,”says Fagan. “So, instead of having built-in obsolescence, you have an open-ended upgrade path.”

Starscape's compact LED-based light sources can illuminate up to around 450 x 0.75mm fibres (larger models have capacities in excess of 1000 fibres), and these can be used individually to create hundreds of “star” points in paving, decking or walls or they can be grouped in bundles to form larger points of light in formal steel paver/deck fittings. Or, use the fibres to illuminate glass tiles set into the ground or wall.

The electrical part of the project may be as simple as plugging the light source

into the nearest socket, but Starscape expects solar-powered light sources to become more common in the near future.

The more sophisticated light sources have DMX functionality allowing for full integration with home automation systems, and lighting effects range from subtle to very dynamic.

“The premium quality fibre which we use allows us to project light to 15 metres quite comfortably, or as far as 20 metres at a pinch,” explains Fagan.

“Over longer distances the issue is not – as you might expect – light attenuation, but rather colour shift, as white light starts to take on greenish hues. This happens because attenuation affects different frequencies at different rates.”

Northumberland-based Starscape has customers in around 30 countries worldwide. www.starscape.co.uk info@starscape.co.uk tel 01289 332900.

Simple shapes and primitive geometries characterize the range “Tailored” by Matteo Thun, from the creative collaboration between Simes and the prestigious italian architect and designer. A perfect balance between sustainable and diverse material expressions: the range was developed using a combination of wood teak that conveys a warm effect and the minimalist lines of aluminium, new finishes specifically dedicated to improve the quality of the lighting performance. Natural elegance and lighting poetry that dress with charm the environments with an unmistakable style.

Thun Video interview

32 Landscape & Urban Design

Wild Flower Lawns & Meadows

Unique wild flower seed mixes with wild orchids Wild flower turf with wild orchid seed – nationwide delivery Wild flower plants and plant plug collections Yellow Rattle seed and plugs Advisory service for creating and managing wild flower areas and much more… SEE THE WEBSITE below:

www.wildflowerlawnsandmeadows.com Tel: Colin 01435 810446 email: contact@colinreader.com

Find the right trees for your project

The Ebben TreeEbb is a digital tree library created for green professionals by green professionals, with thousands of plant species. You can put together the perfect range for any green project in a few clicks.

• Thousands of species of trees and plants.

• Easy to search by application, size, colour, shape, location and many other plant characteristics.

• Detailed species descriptions and inspirational photos.

Download the free TreeEbb app via the App store or Google Play.

T +31 (0)485 312021 | info@ebben.nl | www.ebben.co.uk

FEATURES

RIGHT TREE IN THE RIGHT PLACE HeadlineComplete headlineLandscaping headline headline

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Solutions

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Cum, comnimp oraerrume consequam, sapiderum imporro Delivering quality assured landscaping blat accuptatur sero eatem reicit is dolendi ciatest ipicilit, ea nonsequas ipiduci issinih ilique dis dolorpo rererat ecepernam solutions including:

BS3882:2015 Harum exeratem ad ullupta ecullori beatem lanienim et, sit ea simi, niment maximus, audis doloreperi restrum arum fuga. Ut aut Certified topsoils unt hillamet experep erundusam dolorerae. Nem intiiscil es dia

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BS8601:2013 Certified subsoil

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and establishing of trees to create the next can often be seen as primarily choosing quantities from a planting list and getting them planted.

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Primary and Decorative Aggregates Barks and Composts Soils and Stone are proud to work with NJB Recycling and wish them continued success for the future

To find out more call us at 020 8546 3860 www.soilsandstone.co.uk

Questions to consider when selecting trees include: Who will use this site? What do they require? What are the existing constraints? How much space is available for new trees? Will the existing soil be sufficient, or will fresh soil be needed? Is the

site vulnerable to flooding or drought? How long will the trees have to become established?

There can indeed be a fine line between success and failure!

For advice and further information contact; Mark Chester E-mail mark@ cedarwoodtreecare.co.uk or telephone 01981 570426, mobile 07888 838360

Landscape & Urban Design

33

Unique range of deck boards offer beauty of wood without the hassle 34 Landscape & Urban Design

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stylish range of ecofriendly decking which are weatherproof and require no maintenance has been unveiled by a leading wholesaler.

Family-owned F.H. Brundle say the Rinato deck boards are for customers who want to experience the beauty of wood without the hassle of maintaining it.

The boards come in antique, dark oak and anthracite and are the ideal solution for decking and balconies in residential and commercial properties.

We are proud to add the Rinato deck boards to our range.”

The deck boards are easy to clean and benefit from excellent UV resistance as well as being watertight and splinter-free.

Paul Smith, Head of Marketing at F.H. Brundle, said: “The Rinato deck boards are an extremely stylish, durable and practical weatherproof solution for the UK climate.

“They are made from recycled Polymer and require no maintenance. You can simply enjoy the beauty of wood with the benefits of Polymer.

“Since 1889, F.H. Brundle has built its business on careful product selection and diversification and has gone from strength to strength.

A range of fixing kits and hidden clips are also available to ensure it’s easy-to-install with a neat finish.The deck board can be used with or without a handrail depending on the application but can also compliment F.H. Brundle’s existing ranges of Pro-Railing and Fortitude fencing.

With huge stocks, over 50 vehicles delivering daily into local areas and a fleet of lorries supplying the branches overnight from our Midlands distribution hub, F.H. Brundle aims to provide 98% stock availability on over 8,000 lines.

To find out more, please visit www.fhbrundle.co.uk.

ABOUT F.H. BRUNDLE - F.H. Brundle is a leading wholesale supplier - but still maintains traditional values first established back when it was founded in 1889.

- Today F.H. Brundle is still very much a family business, now owned and managed by Richard Brundle (fourth generation) and his son Michael Brundle (fifth generation).

- Both play an active role in ensuring service levels are maintained, efficiency is upheld whilst continually looking to widen existing ranges and introduce new products.

- To maintain the personal touch, the business has always delivered on their own fleet of trucks. Today with branches at Rainham, Ilkeston, Southampton, St Helens, Birmingham, Edinburgh and Glasgow, we deliver to most areas of the country.

Landscape & Urban Design

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gworld-speedyfloor1.pdf 1 5/3/2017 7:59:25 AM

UNSIGHTLY PATIO, DECK, GARDEN SURFACE? EASY DIY FIT IN NO TIME AT ALL! NEXT DAY DELIVERY FROM 1 TILE TO 1000 SQUARE METRES

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speedyfloor.co.uk Tel: 0151 639 4281 sales@speedyfloor.co.uk

Expanding Delivery Fleet Reflects Growth at Paynes Turf

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eading turf supplier, Paynes Turf, is expanding its delivery fleet of FORS accredited vehicles following sustained growth of the business in the UK. The investment will allow the 40-year-old turf company, which grows premium quality turf at its 1500-acre farms in Essex and Suffolk, to meet increasing demand for Paynes Turf’s products and services.

“Efficient landscaping work requires turf to be on site at the right time, which is often early in the working day for landscapers. Reliable delivery is yet another area where Paynes Turf excels; we operate our own fleet so that we can better meet our customers’ needs – delivering right on site with our forklift unloading where required,” said John Payne, Partner at Paynes Turf.

Paynes Turf products include turf, topsoils and border bark, with turf supplied in 1sqm rolls or in big rolls of 20sqm, the latter being ideal for landscapers working on large-scale commercial projects, allowing turf to be laid quickly and effectively.

Paynes’ turf is harvested the day before delivery to ensure that it arrives fresh and in the best condition. “Much of our business relies on recommendations and reputation so it’s important that we go that extra mile to provide a fast and

The company has enhanced its delivery service with the addition of a tenth vehicle to its fleet, all of which are fitted with custom-built smart GPS tracking systems that allow drivers to stay ahead of the traffic, and include piggy-back forklift unloading.

36 Landscape & Urban Design

efficient delivery service.”

To find out more, please visit www.paynesturf.co.uk or call 01255 830325

Designing driveways, car parks or even HGV parks?...

We’ll have a solution for you

The majority of our products are available from stock & if ordered before 4pm can be delivered the next working day!

Suregreen offer a wide range of permeable, SuDS compliant ground reinforcement solutions

PP25 Porous Paver 25mm deep lightweight paver ideal for domestic applications.

PP30 Porous Paver 30mm deep decorative white porous paver - for driveways.

PP40 Porous Paver 40mm deep & available in green or black - grass or gravel finish.

PP50 Porous Paver Our strongest paver in the PP range, for high traffic usage.

TRUCKGRID-MAX Our heaviest duty porous paver perfect for commercial jobs.

Turf Reinforcement Mesh Lightweight grass protection for gardens & domestic use.

Grass Reinforcement Mesh Offers grass protection & easy to install - ideal for parking.

TRACKTURF Reinforcement Reinforced grass surface using rootzone & plastic mesh elements.

Other product ranges available from Suregreen To purchase:

Call: 01376 503869 email: sales@sure-green.com Website: www.sure-green.com

To speak to a specialist:

Call: 07703 784558 email: paul.munday@sure-green.com Technical site: www.sure-ground.com

Technical Information:

We have technical datasheets, installation guides, design guides, case studies & more online - www.sure-ground.com

PP50 Porous Paver Gravel Car Park

Issue

Solution

Result

Survitec is an expanding company located in a busy industrial estate in Grimsby.

Parking on the estate has always proved to be a problem due to lack of spaces available. As the business was growing and more staff members needed the problem was becoming more and more acute. Survitec had some scrubland to the rear of the property that was looked at to solve the problem. Survitec needed a solution that would allow everyday car parking in all weather conditions, be cost effective and would meet planning conditions regarding no extra drainage being required.

PP50 Porous Paver with a gravel fill was chosen to meet the requirements on site. PP50 is a commercial hard wearing paver that is built to handle everyday car movements. A porous hard-core base was laid to support the PP50 and a mixed size angular limestone gravel used for the bedding and fill of the PP50. The designed construction profile was based on the guidelines freely available on the Suregreen website.

Survitec now have a car park that can be used throughout the year, the new overflow gravel car park is completely self-draining conforming to the latest Sustainable Urban Drainage requirements (SUDS). Overall costs were reduced because of no extra outlays for additional overflow drainage was needed. Also the car park was designed to keep maintenance costs to a minimum and was in keeping with the surrounds.

Location: Survitec, Kiln Lane Industrial Estate, Grimsby Contractor: Prime Projects Application: Everyday use Car Park Product: PP50 Gravel Paver

Landscape & Urban Design

37

Beautiful Decking Doesn’t Have to Grow on Trees: Introducing Bradstone’s Wood-Effect Porcelain Paving

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ould this be the end for ‘90s favourite garden decking? After TV makeover shows sparked a boom in homeowners ripping up their patios to install trendy timber decking, issues with warping and slippage could soon see the wooden slats disappearing from our gardens entirely.

Once a nationwide favourite, studies have found that two thirds of those surveyed

38 Landscape & Urban Design

wouldn’t consider installing it nowadays*. Prone to staining, warping and perishing, pristine wooden decking laid in the 90s is now coming to the end of its shelf life. For homeowners looking for all the natural beauty of real wood without any of the associated issues that can come with timber decking, garden landscaping manufacturer Bradstone has the answer.

With its good looks and long

Bradstone

list of credentials, Bradstone’s Madera® and Madera® Antigua wood-effect porcelain tiles bring an ultra-modern finish to outdoor spaces. Applying interior trends to garden design is heralding a new era in hard landscaping, with the nature of porcelain tiles allowing you to seamlessly link your indoor space to your outdoor space.

Unlike its decking counterparts, the anti-slip finish of woodeffect porcelain negates the perilous slips and trip hazards of real wood. Boasting an incredible inherent strength and exceptional durability, porcelain weathers the elements, including the harshest of frosts, and is impervious to staining.

Practically maintenance-free, these stunning tiles won’t fade, stain or warp, enabling you to enjoy the natural good looks of timber for countless years to come.

MADERA® Madera® offers all the natural

beauty of real wood without any of the associated maintenance issues. Available in either Birch or Oak, this beautiful lightweight long aspect porcelain paving is available in 17.82m2 packs in a 900mm x 225mm size. RRP: £60-65 per m2.

MADERA® ANTIGUA New for 2017, Madera® Antigua offers a more rugged timber-effect look. With its more uneven and irregular profile, Madera® Antigua provides all the visual impact and authenticity of aged timber, but without the associated warping or degradation. Available in three

shades – Oak, Birch and Grey – each with subtle shading variations, it allows you to choose a finish to complement your soft landscaping. Available in a 19.44m2 pack, which consists of 900mm x 150mm planks. RRP: £60-70 per m2.

Bradstone’s extensive collection of premium porcelain, natural stone, reconstituted stone, edging, walling and other features, such as stepping stones, are available from a nationwide network of stockists.

To find out more about Bradstone, visit www.bradstone.com.

Landscape & Urban Design

39

New ECHO Lithium Ion Hedge Trimmer

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CHO have introduced a new hedge trimmer, the DHC-200 to their 50V Lithium Ion battery series which also includes trimmers and power blowers.

Like all ECHO products this hedge trimmer has built-in features which take into consideration the environment in which it will be working and operator productivity.

As a Lithium Ion product, the hedge trimmer offers clean battery power whilst providing performance equal to its petrol counterparts. It’s also built to the same professional standard as ECHO’s petrol hedge trimmers with their reputation for being powerful, tough and durable.

40 Landscape & Urban Design

“The ecological features of the new DHC-200, as with all the ECHO Lithium Ion series products,” say ECHO “offer contractors and professional landscapers exceptional benefits. The low noise makes them ideally suited to use in noise-sensitive areas such as schools and nursing homes.

Low emissions are beneficial in their use in parks, nature reserves and organic gardens.”

There are other considerations such as reduced maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts, easy-to-use controls with no recoil start, no more fuel filling or cold starting.

The DHC-200 just needs charging up and it’s ready to go. It’s lightweight and very comfortable to use, thanks

to the ergonomic design of the front handle which helps manoeuvrability, and it can be used for long periods with little fatigue. Gardeners trimming ornamental hedges can count on the variable speed control for precision cutting and optimized run-time. The 62cm doublesided precision cut blades provide a clean cut with a long-lasting sharpness for a beautiful finish. The DHC200 uses energy efficient motor controls to manage motor speed, power delivery and battery temperature for improved cutting performance and battery life.

The DHC-200 comes with a 2Ah battery and rapid charger as standard, with an optional

4Ah battery for a longer run time. The rapid battery charger ensures the 2Ah battery is boosted to 80% capacity in 24 minutes and the 4Ah in 48 minutes. It’s also a hedge trimmer that is clean to use and store and there’s no need to store and mix two-stroke fuel. The two-year professional use and 5-year domestic warranty shows that ECHO are extremely confident in their machines. This confidence continues in its 50V battery range with a two-year warranty on all 50V lithium ion batteries.

Find out more from your local authorised ECHO dealer, or call 0800 597 7777 for more information

American Hardwood projects shortlisted for four wood awards

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our outstanding projects using American hardwood have been shortlisted for the prestigious Wood Awards 2017: two in the buildings competition and two in the furniture competition.

Established in 1971, the Wood Awards is the UK’s premier competition for excellence in architecture and product design in the world’s only naturally sustainable material. The Awards recognise, encourage and promote outstanding design, craftsmanship and installation using wood.

Previous hardwood winners include Contour House (American white oak) by Sanei Hopkins Architects, winner of the Private category 2016, and the Bespoke 2015 winner Ves-el (American white oak)

by Gareth Neal, Zaha Hadid and Benchmark which was commissioned by the American Hardwood Export Council’s 2014 The Wish List project for the London Design Festival.

The shortlist will be showcased at the London Design Fair (Stand B05, Hall T2), Old Truman Brewery, 21st-24th September. Winners will be revealed at the annual Wood Awards ceremony at Carpenters’ Hall on 21st November, by host Johanna Agerman Ross, Founder of Disegno magazine and Curator of Twentieth Century and Contemporary Furniture and Product Design at the V&A. BUILDINGS Twenty outstanding structures have been nominated for the Wood Awards 2017 shortlist,

featuring some of Britain’s best architectural designs in wood.

Two of these feature for the first time the use of hardwood CLT and, more specifically, American tulipwood. The judging panel, led by architect Michael Morrison of Purcell, visit all the shortlist projects in person, making this a uniquely rigorous competition.

MAGGIE’S OLDHAM Category: Education & Public Sector Wood Species: American tulipwood, American white oak

Location: Oldham Architect: dRMM Client/Owner: Maggie’s Structural Engineer: Booth King UK Timber Advice & Procurement Liaison: American Hardwood Export Council Main Contractor/Builder: Parkinson Building Contractors Structural Timber Subcontractor: Züblin TimberWood Supplier Machining of Fluted Cladding: Morgan Timber Window Manufacturer: Falegnameria Aresi Wood Supplier: Middle Tennessee Lumber (Tulipwood) Built in the grounds of NHS cancer hospitals, Maggie’s Centres offer free practical and emotional support for people affected by cancer. The design of Maggie’s Oldham is less about form and more about content. Supported on slender columns, the building floats above a garden framed by pine, birch and tulip poplar trees.

From a central oasis, a tree grows up through the building, bringing nature inside.

Photo: Maggies Oldham

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Photo: The Smile

The use of wood at Maggie’s Oldham is part of a bigger design intention to reverse the norms of hospital architecture, where clinical institutionalised environments can make patients feel dispirited. In wood there is hope, humanity, scale and warmth. Maggie’s Oldham is the first permanent building constructed from sustainable tulipwood crosslaminated timber, following on from dRMM and AHEC’s development of this material with the experimental project Endless Stair in 2013. All of the walls and roof are visibly structure and form an exquisite natural timber finish internally.

The tulipwood CLT has been carefully detailed to bring out its natural beauty – its fine, variegated finish is more akin to a piece of furniture than a construction material. The slatted ceiling was created from wood left over from the CLT fabrication process, ensuring no waste.

Wood fibre insulation ensures a breathable, healthy environment whilst the huge

window frames are American white oak. Externally the building is draped in customfluted, thermally modified tulipwood, like a surreal theatrical curtain. Maggie’s Oldham is a carefully made manifesto for the architecture of health, realised in wood.

THE SMILE Category: Small Project Wood Species: American tulipwood Location: Chelsea College of Arts, London Architect: Alison Brooks Architects Client: American Hardwood Export Council / London Design Festival Structural Engineer: Arup CLT Manufacturer: MERK Timber GmbH, Züblin Timber Main Contractor/Joinery Company: Aldworth James & Bond Lighting Designer: SEAM Balustrade Joinery: John Stidworthy Wood Supplier: Various

The Smile was an immersive sensory environment that integrated structure, surface, space and light to form a public gathering place.

Conceived as a habitable arc, The Smile was a 3.5m high, 4.5m wide and 34m long curved timber tube that cantilevered 12m in two directions with viewing platforms at both ends. Up to 60 visitors could enter at one time through an opening where the arc touched the ground.

Innovative solutions using long screws were developed, allowing the opening to be in the most highly stressed region. The Smile was the first project in the world to use large hardwood CLT panels; the entire structure was made from just 12 tulipwood panels, each up to 14m long and 4.5m wide.

The CLT panels were connected with 7,000 self-tapping screws.

At the base, a glulam timber cradle filled with 20 tonnes of steel counterweights, allowed the project to be selfsupporting. Perforations in the walls, concentrated in areas where there was less stress in

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the structure, brought dappled sunlight into the interior and dispersed where the timber was structurally working harder.

While deceptively simple in design, The Smile has been one of the most important developments in a decade of research into structural timber innovation. Merging the advantages of CLT with the strength and appearance of hardwood, a building element was created that was both structure and finish, reducing total construction cost and speed. This allowed on-site assembly in just seven days.

Tulipwood was selected for its unusual combination of high strength and low density.

These stronger, thinner panels were still compatible with CNC machining and cheap selftapping screws. As industrial tulipwood CLT was a completely new material, its strength was derived from first principles and rigorous testing.

FURNITURE Two of the furniture and product projects shortlisted for the Wood Awards 2017, feature the use of American hardwoods.

The shortlist has been selected by the judges, led by Max Fraser, design curator and author.

NARIN CHAIR Category: Production Made Wood Species: American white oak and American black walnut, birch Designer: David Irwin Maker/ Manufacturer: Case Furniture Wood Supplier: Various Case wanted to change preconceptions of what a folding chair is; a piece of furniture you would be proud to have on display at any time and not the emergency chair that comes out of the cupboard at Christmas.

Designer David Irwin says: “It was a challenge to achieve a really comfortable seating position whilst also delivering

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Photo: Narin Chair

the utilitarian rigour required of a folding chair but I think Narin delivers on both these fronts. Narin’s smooth sweeping transition is accentuated through the solid timber turned legs into the formed backrest. This component is the key element of Narin’s design as it not only provides a comfortable backrest but also acts as the pivot from where the back legs rotate. The seat and back are formed from a high-grade birch ply with oak or walnut veneer while the rest of the chair is solid wood.”

The Narin doesn’t comprise on aesthetics or comfort despite the folding design.

RUSTIC STOOL 1.0 Category: Student Designer Wood Species: American hard maple Designer/Maker: Mark Laban College/University: Central Saint Martins Wood Supplier: Whitten Timber / Surrey Timbers Rustic Stool 1.0 was developed through a processdriven approach to design engaging directly with the manufacturing technique itself: a 3-axis CNC router.

The machine’s functionality is utilized as an integral part of the design process, where idiosyncrasies and

imperfections influence the development of the product.

By manipulating the machine’s CAM software through playful and experimental interventions, unexpected and unconventional surfaces are created that deviate from the smooth perfected geometries associated with the conventional application of this technology. These artificially generated rough textures begin to evoke the raw state of the material in its natural form, defining the object with a kind of hybrid aesthetic that nuances rusticity through the language of the machine.

The stool is part of Digital Daiku, a collection that interprets traditional Japanese aesthetic principles and explores their possibilities to inform furniture crafted using contemporary digital manufacturing processes.

American maple was used for its overall paleness, fine grain, and its delicate colouring and tonality. These characteristics along with its hardness and good machining capabilities made it ideal for the project, and created a subtle natural canvas with which to accentuate the bold machine made form. www.americanhardwood.org

New Bridge

New Name for Copley Bridge The historic Copley Bridge near Sowerby Bridge, Halifax that was destroyed by floods in 2015 has just been replaced by bridge specialists CTS Bridges with an all new steel and timber structure.

“Wilson Bridge” is the new name chosen by local primary school children and residents for the new bridleway crossing. Pupils’ research revealed that the original Copley Bridge was once a toll bridge and that one neighbouring resident – the late Mr Graham Wilson – had done much to maintain and improve the bridge. Thus the name “Wilson Bridge” was a worthy winner.

Calderdale Council appointed CTS Bridges of Huddersfield to design, manufacture, deliver and install the 40m x 3m bridge. The single span truss bridge is above the flood level and avoids reliance on any supports within the river channel making it far less vulnerable if there were to be a repeat of the 2015 flood.

As CTS director Sally Preston explained: “Along with meeting Calderdale Council’s project requirements the main design challenge of this scheme was the difficult access into the site which prohibited delivery of a fully assembled bridge and restricted the crane size to carry out the final lift. This influenced the design, resulting in the incorporation of removable elements such as the deck so

that the weight could be minimised during the lift and then the bridge completed insitu”.

CTS Bridges deliver design-and-build bridge projects for customers all over the UK and boast a portfolio of several thousand bridges since their formation in 1988.

If you require any further information or details on the design, build and installation service CTS Bridges provide for bridges and structures, contact them on 01484 606416 or www.ctsbridges.co.uk, enquiries@ctsbridges.co.uk.

New 40m x 3m Pratt Truss Bridge installed at Copley by CTS Bridges Ltd

CTS really is your one stop shop for the complete bridge package...

• Complete bridge design, manufacture & installation packages • Advice given on suitable styles of bridge • Cost effective solutions.

• In house design service, CAD & 3D • Installation all over the UK, assembled or kit form • Over 25 years experience

Quality with economy from conception to completion

www.ctsbridges.co.uk

01484 606 416 Landscape & Urban Design

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Proludic Urbanix: The Real Outdoor Gym

A unique approach to fitness in an unsupervised setting

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he success and popularity of Outdoor Gyms in the UK has slowly increased over the last 10 years. Initially they were considered to be home to warm climes where they better suited the outdoor way of life for users across parks and beaches. This has proved not to be the case and there is an everincreasing programme of Outdoor Gym installations across the UK. The design of equipment has evolved during this time and now there are a wide range of systems on the market varying in specification and price.

The key principles for the design of the exercise stations is the safety and benefits to the user. This can be achieved through a controlled weight resistance system along with clear signage and accompanying technology providing guidance and structure to safe independent work outs.

Proludic Urbanix were first to the UK market with an outdoor gym range using a unique operating system that utilizes a hydraulic piston. The piston offers controlled movement across both movement planes of extension and contraction of the muscle groups which means that users are guaranteed a safe and consistent work out. The benefits to this against a body weight resistant system means that users can train using the

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machines regardless of their own body weight and fitness level.

The aesthetic of outdoor gym equipment is important when placed within a park setting and the muted beige colour ensures it sits well within a landscaped or natural environment.

Bright colours can act as a beacon for play and these should be avoided.

The potential conflict between the location of play and outdoor gyms has been resolved with the introduction of the standard EN16630:2015, the reasons for this have been highlighted with the document produced by the API in 2015, confirming all previous standards have been withdrawn including PAS888 and the French XPS 52-904. See API for details.

Guidance is crucial and technology is playing an increasing role in the way the community can access information.

Proludic has recently launched a sports app to go alongside all their sports equipment. The advanced app will allow people to monitor their fitness, gain rewards for achievements unlocked and share and compete with their community, both locally, socially and nationally. For more information on this please contact: marketing@proludic.co.uk

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marketing@proludic.co.uk www.proludic.co.uk 0115 982 3980

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Inclusive outdoor learning and play area Glenwood School, Essex

Sutcliffe Play has worked with Glenwood School on the development of a £250,000 inclusive outdoor learning and play area.

The school has recently been rebuilt by Essex County Council on land adjacent to its previous site. The school reopened in September 2017 and as part of the new build project the school wanted to include an outdoor space that could be used for both learning and play.

Glenwood is a Community Special School for learners aged 3-19 with severe, profound or multiple learning difficulties. This includes learners with autistic spectrum condition and those with complex physical and sensory impairments. The school is committed to creating a happy and positive environment for pupils and staff, with the new playground forming an integral part of their strategy. It was important that the playground wasn’t just about the equipment; it needed to be an outdoor learning space that would engage pupils across four key areas: • • • •

Sensory Garden Balance & Coordination Area Outdoor Classroom Inclusive Physical Development Area

Inclusivity is at the heart of all of Sutcliffe Play’s proposals and our design team has created an outdoor space for Glenwood School that creates endless opportunities for both learnings and play. The four areas have created clear zones for pupils to engage in different activities: Sensory Garden This area uses equipment and materials to create a natural playground. Pathways and tunnels are created with wooden equipment, bamboo and planters. We’ve also introduced pieces that create opportunities that will help to develop and engage sound and vision. A hammock and table and chairs provide settings to develop social skills.

Balance & Coordination Area This area features equipment from Sutcliffe Play’s Orchard range. The wooden, environmentally friendly range

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complements the Sensory Garden with sleeper benches and activity trails to help develop balance. This area also includes an inclusive nest swing that is designed like a bird’s next to allow children of differing abilities to swing together.

Outdoor Classroom A gazebo has been installed to create an outdoor learning environment with a chalkboard, benches and tables accessible for wheelchairs.

Inclusive Physical Development Area This area is packed with some of Sutcliffe Play’s newest and most innovative equipment. This includes two multi-play units featuring a wide range of different play options, access points and levels of challenge: - The first, a large bespoke unit offers double wheel chair access ramps with turning and passing points whilst incorporating play elements along the route. Drag ramps, wide non-slip access steps and double width access cargo nets ensure that users of all abilities can access the 1.2 high large seating central play house and slide.

- The second, the Daffodil Climber from the Toddlerzone Plus range features gentle waving panels to reflect a natural theme.

We’ve also installed our inclusive wheelchair roundabout that allows those in a wheelchair to experience spinning, just as if they were on a traditional roundabout.

Judith Salter, head teacher at Glenwood School says: “Outdoor space forms a really important part of the learning opportunities and leisure time for the young people attending Glenwood. We aim to provide the best possible education for all learners to prepare them for everything they can achieve in life. The new playground will help us to achieve these goals and will have a long-lasting positive impact on the school.”

For further information please contact Claire Murgatroyd or Amie Baron at MTJ Associates on 01772 421 442, or email claire@mtjpr.co.uk

East Yorkshire’s newest attraction, William’s Den, delivers exceptional play whatever the weather

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ast Yorkshire’s newest family attraction, William’s Den, is enjoying a very busy first season, and it’s not hard to see why with such exceptional play facilities. Timberplay were delighted to be part of this unique attraction, designing and delivering the outdoor play area.

William’s Den sought to create an attraction that provided the very best naturally inspired play opportunities, from the UK’s largest timber indoor play areas with a difference, to sand and water sites, playful landscaping, challenging outdoor equipment, and den building. It seems the leisure market was waiting for a site such as Williams Den as it has been fully booked for most of the summer holidays.

Timberplay worked with William’s Den to create outdoor play which embraced landscaping to create a space which appeals to children

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across a wide age range. The inclusion of sand and water pumps and channels boosts the playvalue within the site significantly. Older children have the challenge of the Climbing Structure and the thrill of the cableway. Toddlers can embrace the role play within the Platform House or fly as high as they dare in the Cradle Swing.

Christian Carver, Co-Owner at William’s Den comments:-

were never far from the surface. It became abundantly clear that we had to create an environment for children to play inside and out whatever the weather, where they could run wild and experience the freedom to roam, and while the kids were doing that, we wanted the grown ups to enjoy being outdoors with their children and appreciate everything else on offer.”

“Myself and Tor both grew up on farms and we remember rather nostalgically having vast amounts of freedom to play outside in all weathers, for hours on end. Our childhood years were spent endlessly exploring on foot and by bike, building dens and using our wild imaginations to entertain each other for hours and days.

What makes William’s Den really stand out is the way they have embraced the landscape, with mounds, embankments, a natural amphitheatre, climbing boulder stack, log bridges and tunnels all combining to deliver an imaginative play environment. This is exploited further with the addition of den building materials – to inspire children to create their own woodland hideaway.

When we were sharing ideas for the type of family visitor attraction we wanted to create, our own childhood experiences

For more information on Williams Den or to book your tickets please visit www. williamsden.co.uk.

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In Search of Berried Treasure

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erry-bearing trees and shrubs come into their own in autumn, creating colourful displays that last well into winter, which is why they have been chosen as the Horticultural Trades Association’s (HTA) Plant of the Moment for October.

From elderberries to rose hips, crab apples to firethorns, the addition of “berrying” plants adds a new dimension to any garden, with plants carrying fruits and berries through autumn and into winter.

Berry-producing plants also provide home grown food for hungry birds and wildlife too, enhancing their appeal and value to the garden.

Evergreen shrubs provide structure and form to the garden throughout the year, but many produce early displays of flowers followed by autumn berries. One of the best compact shrubs for borders or patio pots is a Skimmia with a mouthful of a name, Skimmia japonica subsp. reevesiana. Don’t let this put you off as its displays of bright red berries are second to none!

Also check out the compact and spreading Viburnum davidii, a hardy shrub with distinctly veined evergreen foliage that produces the most unusual metallic-looking blueblack berries. It really is quite a talking point.

To create seasonal pots for autumn colour include a small Gaultheria mucronata carrying brilliant berries in pink, red or pure white. Combined with pansies and violas, trailing ivy, heather, carex or skimmia your pots will put on a display that lasts for months.

Trained against walls and fences, firethorn is a valuable evergreen shrub. Its thorny stems make it a great choice for producing secure garden boundaries, but don’t let the spines put you off buying Pyracantha. They provide valuable nesting sites for birds, flowers that attract bees, and red, orange or yellow berries to feed birds into winter With such a rich and diverse range of plants to choose from it really is possible to fill your

borders with berried treasure this autumn!

TOP FOUR SHRUBS WITH COLOURFUL FRUITS AND BERRIES Firethorn : (Pyracantha varieties) Skimmia : Many female varieties produce wonderful displays of berries including Skimmia japonica subsp. reevesiana, Skimmia japonica ‘Nymans’ and ‘Obsession’. Male varieties are equally appealing with great flower displays, like ‘Magic Marlot’ and ‘Rubella’.

Gaultheria Mucronata: (Formerly called PERNETTYA) Cotoneaster : wide range of berrying shrubs including Cotoneaster horizontalis, Cotoneaster ‘Coral Beauty’, C. ‘Cornubia’, C. lacteus, and many others.

TOP TIPS FOR PLANNING AND PLANTING g Many shrubs can be given a permanent home in large patio pots. Plant pots using a freedraining loam-based compost. g Always stand pots on feet during winter to prevent drainage holes getting blocked

PHOTO Adam Pasco Media

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and pots filling-up with water, literally drowning their roots! g Small berry-bearing shrubs included in seasonal patio pot arrangements can be removed and planted out in the garden next spring. g Some plants have both male and female varieties, so it might just be the female one you buy that’s carrying berries. Ask for advice, as in future years you may need to grow male forms alongside the females to ensure their flowers get pollinated and develop future crops of berries.

PLANTING PARTNERS As well as choosing planting partners carrying berries try and create varied displays by including evergreen shrubs, ornamental grasses, architectural plants with strong shapes and forms, and those with great autumn foliage colours. Here are some to consider: g Beauty Berry (Callicarpa ‘Profusion’ and many others) g Carex ‘Evergold’ g Heathers (Including Calluna varieties) g Holly (Ilex varieties) g Pansies g Roses with colourful hips, like Rosa rugosa, Rosa canina and Rosa ‘Geranium’ g Skimmia ‘Magic Marlot’ g Spindle (varieties of Euonymus like ‘Red Cascade’) g Viola g Viburnum including Viburnum davidii and varieties of Guelder Rose (Viburnum opulus) Visit www.the-hta.org.uk/ plantofthemoment for more information and to download the media pack which features: plant information for each month including top plants, tips and companion plant ideas, high and low resolution photos, plus Point-of-Sale samples from Floramedia and Hortipak.

Natural stone that looks like wood

The improved alternative to using reclaimed timber in garden design, new from CED

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f you want that reclaimed style in your garden while still benefiting from the qualities of natural stone then try CED Stone Group’s new product, Slatewood – it naturally looks like rustic driftwood!

Black-grey in colour and shot through with golden-brown hues, Slatewood is grained and craggy; making it an excellent alternative to using old or weathered timber in your garden scheme. When pieces of

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Slatewood are traditionally split, its minerals give it a natural wave, making it look remarkably similar to worn bark. Visually the effect is just as good, if not better, and like any natural stone material Slatewood is incredibly strong and hardwearing.

Being a completely natural, non-processed stone, Slatewood naturally imitates the normal colour variations found in timber materials due

to its own organic mineral combinations, making it a more authentic alternative than more commonly used wood replicas that are usually manufactured from concrete or ceramics. Made primarily of Mica and Quartz minerals with smaller amounts of Sericite and Chlorite, the Quartz minerals grow causing the surrounding minerals to deform, creating eye-shaped formations called Augen which have the appearance of wood knots.

CED

‘We’re always looking for new and exciting products to offer our customers, so we’re proud to be introducing Slatewood into our natural stone range’ said Giles Heap, Managing Director of CED. ‘Slatewood is a fantastic product that’s going to offer a unique and interesting element to a whole variety of landscape projects – it’s a very versatile product and we can’t wait to see what our customers do with it!’

Slatewood is a versatile material and due to it’s highly grained texture, it’s perfect for making a style statement in areas that have a particularly high slip-risk, such as sloping paths. Create incredibly long-lasting raised bed borders in place of timber sleepers, or build chunky beams for pergolas and other outdoor structures. Add textured feature walls or ornamental arrangements, or lead a path of stepping stones set within natural stone aggregates for a captivating contrast of textures; the possibilities are endless!

Slatewood is now available from CED in Palisades and Planks in various sizes, and CED can also offer a bespoke service for more specific size and shape requirements. For more information, visit www. ced.ltd.uk or contact CED on enquiries@ced.ltd.uk or (+44)1708

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Superior Flood Fence hits the market at the right time as more flooding is predicted in the future.

The answer to most of our flooding problems to both large and small properties and gardens has arrived onto the market place, as we continue to see a very big increase in the amount of flood areas growing each year Stormguard Floodplan Ltd have hit the jackpot by inventing their own specially designed flood Fence.

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he company has already made great inroads inventing a special product that can completely surround properties subject to flooding, it does this by using recycled plastic fence panels and posts which are similar in size and dimensions to the concrete ones being used in garden lattice and lap fencing. It incorporates the use of recycled plastic panels which have special seals in between to keep water out and also side seals. The panels are placed into the channels in Flood Log heights of 300mm high by 1.8 meter in length and incorporate the special Stormguard seals to prevent leakage.

If prospective customers are experiencing any underground flooding coming from rivers or any watercourse by the front side or back of the property then the panels can prevent this happening. By excavating down into the ground in depths of 300mm increments, the flood panels are then surrounded by concrete on both sides to prevent any movement and leakage coming through once in place, the flood boards can go down

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into the ground as far as is needed, this prevents seepage etc entering the gardens or any other area of the property.

A great feature of this product is that it does not require painting and/or any maintenance, a big plus factor as it saves both time and money as the years go by.

Another great feature of the flood fencing is that because the posts are of the same dimensions as any decorative panels that are available in any Garden or Building centres you could have Flood Fencing up to the desired height of say 900mm and slide in the decorative panels on top. This also means that any customers who don’t want to advertise the fact that it is a flood fence this is the answer.

The company has a wonderful website which also features other products made from the same materials, these can be used to prevent other parts of the house from flooding EG: garage door entrances, passageways, driveway entrances and many other areas that are susceptible to water ingress. Have a look by going to www.stormguardfloodplan.com/floodfencing I am sure you will find it very helpful if you suffer from any threat of flooding anywhere in or surrounding your land or property.

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Polypipe delivers an innovative solution for £8m Darlington development Lewis Robinson - WMS Adoptable Systems Specialist Polypipe, the UK’s leading manufacturer of sustainable drainage and water management systems, has supplied a drainage and attenuation solution for the £8 million Haughton Road residential development in Darlington. The project saw Polypipe deliver a tailored, value engineered system to meet the specific requirements of the local water company, Northumbrian Water, working in conjuction with the main contractor Tolent Living and subcontractor Hewitson Limited.

The Haughton Road development project is the largest housing development in the area in recent history, and is being delivered by the Railway Housing Association in collaboration with contractor Tolent Living, groundworks subcontractor Hewitson Limited and designers Coast Consulting Engineers.

The development will see 73 new rental homes built for local residents, which will incorporate the site’s historic engine shed, built in 1844. The Listed status building will be converted into mewsstyle homes, guaranteeing the future preservation and continued use of a historic building closely linked to the town’s industrial past.

a traditional concrete system. Engaging in discussions with the full project team, Polypipe demonstrated that its ability to provide RidgistormXL pipework in bespoke pipelengths and stiffness classifications made it one of the most adaptable large diameter piping systems in the UK, and in this instance the ideal system to meet the project’s needs.

The original specification for the drainage and attenuation on the development included a concrete system, however due to their strong existing relationship with Polypipe, Hewitson Limited asked the manufacturer to design an alternative option.

Polypipe’s proposed system used RidgistormXL engineered thermoplastic large diameter pipes, with just under 12 metres of pipe supplied in a diameter of 900mm and a stiffness class of SN2, and 171 metres supplied in a diameter of 1,200mm to a stiffness class of SN2.8. The RidgistormXL solution was laid under the road out of the residential site and will store surface water run-off, before controlling its release back into Northumbrian Water’s system at a measured rate.

Polypipe worked closely with Northumbrian Water to meet their specific requirements for the site and demonstrated the capabilities that a Ridgistorm-XL large diameter plastic pipe solution could deliver, in comparison to

The pipes were delivered with spigot and socket push-fit jointing, ensuring efficient installation on site. Polypipe’s Ridgistorm-XL is robust, reliable and long lasting, as well as being up to 94% lighter than concrete systems, making it

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easier and quicker to handle and install, further reducing installation time and cost.

In order to approve the system, Northumbrian Water required rocker and stub connectors to be incorporated, to join manholes to the main pipelengths.

Polypipe adapted to this request by providing additional lengths of Ridgistorm-XL pipe, cut to 1.25 metres.

Polypipe then worked closely with the project team to reposition the manholes within the system design as needed, with

the shorter lengths of pipe used as rocker and stub connectors to secure them into the main framework. Ridgistorm-XL manholes are modular, ready-to-install access points that can be integrated anywhere in the drainage network system. At the Haughton Road site, they will effectively control surface run-off flow and facilitate easy access for future inspection and maintenance.

Rosie Cheetham, Marketing Consultant at Polypipe, said, “We were delighted that Hewitson Limited and the project team approached us to supply an alternative,

efficient, and cost effective drainage and attenuation solution for the Haughton Road site. Our high level of dedicated service and consistent communication with all parties, coupled with our technical expertise, proved a great success.

We were able to deliver a solution that was perfectly adapted to meet both the system requirements of Northumbrian Water, and the drainage and attenuation needs of the residential site. This project highlights just how adaptable our Ridgistorm-XL system can be in meeting

challenging or unusual requirements, with our engineers able to work closely with contractors to find an effective solution, without reducing system integrity.”

Pat O’Neill, Contract Manager at Tolent Living, said, “We selected Polypipe’s Ridgistorm-XL system for the Haughton Road development because it is quick and easy to install, which was of great importance to our project schedule.

Overall, the system is lighter in weight and more manageable than concrete solutions, which offered significant safety benefits for installers on-site. “

Polypipe Civils - Tel: +44 (0) 1509 615100 Landscape & Urban Design

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Tree Surveys, TreeRadar, BS5837 Reports, Arboricultural Assessments,

Landscape Management, Plans and Estimating With over 20 years’ experience in all aspects of landscape and tree management you can rely on our expertise to support your objectives.

We support architects, housing associations, councils, housing construction companies, and individual home owners. In fact anywhere that landscapes and trees need to be assessed and managed, we can supply experienced arboriculturalists and landscape professionals to provide data, reports and plans. We use the latest technology, including GPS data capture systems and TreeRadar, to make sure the most accurate information is presented. Call us to discuss your plans on 01202 816134, and visit our new website.

We are pleased to announce the relaunch of www.pba-consulting.co.uk Get a fresh perspective Visit our site new website now

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The Complete Solution Complete Weed Control is the UK’s largest weed control contractor offering a specialist contract service for the eradication of all problem weeds, wherever they appear.

Our high level of expectation with respect to open space standards demands a programme of carefully planned herbicide application to ensure that recreation areas are clear of weeds, that sports surfaces are of the highest standard and public areas are safe for all to use.

Our network of highly trained local teams proudly offer a reliable and quality service, coupled with the professionalism that you’d expect from a reputable national business.

For more information, and to review all of our services, find us at www.completeweedcontrol.co.uk or call 0800 954 9679

RECYFIX MONOTEC® drains car park at Crompton Retail Park, Doncaster A 930 m² (10,000 ft²) Farmfood store opened its doors to customers this Spring (2017) on the Crompton Retail Park, Doncaster, West Yorkshire. For this new section of the Retail Park’s car park the 150 spaces, was drained by some 73 metres of RECYFIX® MONOTEC, Hauraton’s high capacity channel drainage system. The store joins a Dunelm outlet at 3720 m² (40,000 ft²) a Marston’s Public House, a Goals Soccer Centre and other retail and leisure facilities on the 13 acre site located just off the Wheatley Hall Road (A630).

Hauraton Limited introduced the RECYFIX® MONOTEC, system in January 2016.The new Home Bargains store joins the numerous installations successfully completed in the United Kingdom.

Two RECYFIX® MONOTEC 100 models were installed in the car park’s asphalt surface, both channels having a grating width of 100mm (Channel internal

dimension). The larger channel has an overall height of 380mm and provides a cross-section of 355.5cm2. The smaller channel has an overall height of 280mm and provides a cross-section of 245.5cm2. The 73 metres of channel installed has a total water capacity of just over 2444 litres.

The MONOTEC one metre long channel component is of a sturdy monolithic design where the HEELSAFE grating and the tongue and groove linking system are integral to the channel moulding.

The whole unit is made of tough, virtually unbreakable polypropylene (PP) formulated to be very resistant to daily temperature fluctuations from frost conditions to strong sunlight, including the Ultra Violet (UV) spectrum.

PP is naturally resistant to de-icing salt.

Complying with the requirements of EN 1433, the PP is given its UV resistance by adding just sufficient stabiliser so that the structural strength of the material is

unaffected and a consistent appearance is maintained. The MONOTEC channels have a loading category of up to Class D400.

Colin Taff, Hauraton‘s Project Manager for Yorkshire comments; “One of the features of our monolithic system is that the grating is moulded as part of the channel, so for this type of application in a frequently trafficked public area, there is no potential for gratings to come detached from the channel.”

All Hauraton surface water drainage systems’ comply with European Standards (hENs) and carries the CE mark.

For RECYFIX® MONOTEC product specifications go to www.hauraton.co.uk. CIVILS section For other case studies go to www.drainage-projects.co.uk

Landscape & Urban Design

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Tobermore Hard Landscaping Solution Specified at British Airways i360 The World’s First Vertical Cable Car Opened by Duke of Edinburgh

T

he Terra Firma Consultancy provided an informal landscape design advisory service to Marks Barfield Architects, sourcing the most appropriate hard landscaping solution at British Airways i360, the new landmark attraction on Brighton beach. The Terra Firma Consultancy presented Marks Barfield Architects with Tobermore’s Sienna Duo - a block paving product with a striking granite aggregate finish that offered the contemporary look desired for the iconic structure.

Robyn Butcher, Landscape Architect at The Terra Firma Consultancy, explained the objectives of the high-profile project and her role within it: “The design vision for the external landscape was to provide an attractive landscape to accompany the highly anticipated British Airways i360 building and enhance the experience for visitors.

“Marks Barfield Architects was responsible for the stunning design of the i360 structure and we acted as an informal advisor on aspects of the landscape design in assessing the best materials and products suitable for the site.”

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Built at the landward end of Brighton’s historic West Pier, British Airways i360 is a modern-day ‘vertical pier’ that offers a new perspective on Brighton and the south coast. Visitors are gently lifted from ground level to a height of 138m in a giant glass observation pod. The modern design, engineering and method of construction are innovative, just as the West Pier was in its time.

Robyn noted that due to the contemporary style of the design and build, paving products were the most suitable hard landscaping material for the project. “The aesthetics of paving was ideal for the envisioned design and, as other areas on the beachfront close to the project were due to be refurbished with new paving in the near future, we knew that paving around the British Airways i360 building would create continuity with these existing elements.

“Paving also provided the benefits of being easy to lay and easy to replace.”

Robyn was involved in the process of sourcing and assessing paving products

for Marks Barfield Architects and she was highly impressed with the quality, aesthetics and performance offered

by Tobermore’s Sienna Duo block paving. She explained: “Competitor paving products had been put forward for the project but they did not meet the desired aesthetics for the landscape. A product with a modern appearance was needed to complement the structure which was crafted with a real futuristic feel.

“The modern finish and duo sizes available with Tobermore’s Sienna block paving was ideal for creating a contemporary look that was in keeping with the style of the national visitor attraction.

We put this forward to Marks Barfield Architects - they were sold on Sienna Duo, resulting in the product being specified.”

The attraction was completed in August 2016 and was officially opened by His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh during a special ceremony in October 2016, during which HRH took a flight on the observation pod before unveiling a plaque and signing a visitors book.

British Airways i360 has also achieved the Guinness World Record for the World’s Most Slender Tower, with a diameter of just 3.9 m at its widest point.

Robyn commented: “I’m very pleased with the results – I would definitely recommend Tobermore products.

“Having worked with Tobermore previously, the team was always so attentive with technical guidance; the products are competitively priced and aesthetically pleasing and the vibrant colour range available is stunning.”

Check out more Case Studies from Tobermore on the company website: www. tobermore.co.uk/professional/ case-studies

Landscape & Urban Design

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Listed Property Owners’ Club Creates Free Insurance Guide for Listed Property Owners If disaster strikes you may well be required by law to reinstate using traditional materials and methods matching the original, irrespective of cost. Would your present insurer be willing to cover the full costs? If not, can you imagine the consequences?

I

t is vital that appropriate cover is obtained for listed homes as general insurance providers may only provide enough cover for a minimal ‘standard’ rebuild, leaving you to finance the shortfall should the worst happen. It is worth remembering that work on these buildings requires traditional materials and skills which will normally be more time consuming and expensive.

It is also worth remembering that sadly listed buildings are vulnerable to unauthorised works by previous owners.

Prospective owners must be aware of the problems unearthing unauthorised works can cause, as the following owners case study shows:

correct permissions had been given and all alterations were above board.

what a reasonable person could be expected to do in relying on their solicitor’s advice.

After purchasing the property, the owner contacted the council to seek permission to make their own alterations.

After a site visit, the council advised that previous alterations made to the building by previous owners did not comply with planning regulations and there were no records of permission being granted.

This case study shows how important it is that the insurance policy has the correct cover in place for specifics relating to listed buildings, and in this particular case that was unauthorised works by previous owners. This is not something a ‘standard’ policy would include. It also highlights the advantages of using a specialist broker who understands listed buildings and can fight on your behalf during the claims procedure.

LISTED HOME OWNER CASE STUDY

Unauthorised changes by previous owners legally fall to the responsibility of the current owner to rectify, therefore the client was required by law to reverse or ‘make-good’ any alterations, at their own cost.

And in this case these costs were likely to reach £100,000.

In October 2016 an owner purchased a listed building.

Prior to that purchase they first queried whether the evident alterations to the building had received the proper permissions from the local authorities. The prospective owner was then assured by their local solicitor that the

The owner’s insurers initially declined the claim for the works, however, because the owner had chosen to insure via a specialist advisory broker, the broker fought their corner and took the claim back to the insurer. The decision was then overturned as the broker argued that the client had done

64 Landscape & Urban Design

FREE ‘GUIDE TO INSURING YOUR LISTED PROPERTY’ The Listed Property Owners’ Club (LPOC) unfortunately often hears from listed property owners who only realise they are under-insured when things go wrong whilst undergoing a claim. They turn to the Club for help and advice with finding solutions and resolving their problems. ‘A Guide to Insuring Your Listed Property’ was created by LPOC, drawing on over 20 years’ experience of the hazards of listed property

ownership, to educate and empower listed property owners to make informed decisions when insuring their listed property.

calculate the sum insured’ and ‘How to avoid claims’.

The free Guide to Insuring has essential information on how to make sure your policy is right for your listed home; from unapproved changes by previous owners to alternative accommodation, works cover to additional allowances to sum insured. The guide also provides useful jargon busters and helpful tips such as ‘How to

Established in 1993, The Listed Property Owners’ Club was created specifically to provide the owners of Britain’s protected buildings with information and advice on the maintenance, responsibilities and obligations of ownership.

Additionally it provides a voice in Parliament to represent the views of its members.

ABOUT THE LISTED PROPERTY OWNERS’ CLUB

Members benefit from a bimonthly magazine, a dedicated telephone helpline where you can speak to experts on conservation, VAT, law, planning, and insurance, plus the Suppliers Directory of professionals, builders and tradesmen, which is the first port of call for many listed building owners across the country.

More information and details on how to join can be found at http://www.www.lpoc.co.uk.

Landscape & Urban Design

65

How Benfield ATT help you create

The Low Energy Buildings you’ve always wanted…

Intrigued by the claims of this ‘full service’ company we decided to investigate their approach a little more.

Value Engineering: First, we wanted to know what was meant by ‘Value Engineering’ (VE). Professor Dr. Michael Benfield, their CEO, explained: “By focusing on the various ‘functions’ of a client’s building and its components, we aim to identify and remove unnecessary costs while at the same time maintaining - even enhancing - its performance.”

Comprehensive Knowledge: This approach blends their extensive and rather unique knowledge of all forms of timber structure, building science, regulations, and state of the art products with individual client’s design concepts.

“For us, value engineering starts with environmental planning and regulatory impositions as part of our analytical and technical design processes.” he explained. “These feed our drive for, and commitment to, sustainable development through into waste reduction, recycling and lean manufacture. It embraces a ‘Pride in the Job’ and a ‘Right First Time’ mentality that is applied to all our Design & Build (D&B) operations.”

Focus on End User: Paying attention to end user demands is central to Benfield ATT’s approach (the ATT stands for Advanced Timber Technologies, by the way). They believe it enables them to deliver highly effective, quality buildings for projects large & small. This includes providing solutions for difficult to develop sites, like soft ground, steeply sloping land and potential flood plain areas.

Product Selection: Self-evidently, to value engineer design & build solutions, the selection of the most appropriate products needs the services and methods used to be an integral part of the process. Working

66 Landscape & Urban Design

closely with architects, building designers, engineers and quantity surveyors, Benfield ATT helps select and specify those which are most functionally appropriate and cost effective. In turn this encourages the delivery of high quality products to be protected, and results in saving time for on-site build operations. All of this, they claim, reduces costs, enhances client’s projects and helps to make them one of the most competitive full service timber engineering design and build firms in the UK. Fabric First: In the current business climate it is perhaps not surprising to find Efficiency, Performance & Cost Effectiveness to be included in their key current considerations. This is most clearly evidenced in their ‘Fabric First” approach to designing really effective building envelopes.

“There is a crucial need to deliver highly energy efficient structures with optimum levels of insulation, minimal thermal transmission and appropriate airtightness for floors, walls, roofs, windows and doors.” explains Prof Benfield. Unsurprising, therefore, that in their drive toward Zero Carbon and minimal heating requirements, they offer factory Insulated Panels, SIP’s, Green Oak, Post & Beam, Glulam and Hybrid structures all orientated to achieve what was Code for Sustainable Homes levels 4, 5, 6 and Passivhaus Standards.

Specialist Builders’ Merchants: Potentially, the procurement of design specific components can create unforeseen difficulties, for example locating the source of supplies, avoiding delays in delivery lead times, quality assurance, and securing ‘best value’ products and terms.

Here Benfield ATT’s long established connections, access and volume buying capabilities as manufacturers

and selective builder’s merchants, enables them to secure and supply such requirements in the most timely and competitive manner as part of their value engineered, design & build methodology.

Catalysts for Quality: “We believe that our approach to helping you create the ‘Low Energy Buildings you’ve always dreamed of …’ is distinctly different” says Benfield.

“We welcome collaboration with other construction professionals in our drive to achieve this.” In doing so, his company aims to help enhance the professional construction team of architects, other designers, engineers, quantity surveyors, contractors, housebuilders, developers, et al, facilitating the delivery of the high quality buildings they and their clients both need and want. And, if end user clients like self-builders and home improvers lack any of these skills, to be the catalyst drawing in those that are most appropriate for each individual project. To compliment this they offer a selective part or full project management service.

Professional Partnerships: While they are happy to engage in ‘one off’ projects, Benfield ATT see the greatest benefits to industry and end user occupiers as coming from the establishment of long term ‘partnering’ style arrangements with other construction professionals. This can include Joint Venture arrangements for specific developments, which may be of interest to land owners and those who wish to fund, say, housing schemes, but lack the technical knowledge and industry experience necessary to make them successful.

In such cases they believe that their comprehensive team approach can be highly valuable.

To create the most beautiful buildings Custom and Bespoke Self-Builders

Follow the Butterfly

UK’s 1st Amphibious House, Marlow as seen on Grand Designs

Around 20,000 people will build their own home in the UK this year. That’s less than 10 years ago, and a fraction of what are built in mainland Europe. In Austria for example 80% of people self-build. According to the Building Societies Association, 53% of UK people would consider building their own homes. Even more people add an annex, garage, or garden lodge.

You could be one of them.

integration, material choice, build quality, durability, value and comfort. Whatever your needs, we’d like to help you. Our architects, engineers, timber technicians, skilled craftsmen have countless years’ experience designing, making and building homes, extensions and ancillary buildings for people like you. And in the process they’ve created some of the UK’s best known...

However, not all self-builders are the same.

Nor do they have the same requirements.

‘Downsizers’ may want to contract the building work. ‘Up-sizers’ may want, or need, to do a lot of the work themselves. ‘Home-extenders’ often look for a mix of both.

In almost all cases they want, need, and deserve highly knowledgeable professionals to advise and guide them on design, service

Trusted Brands

01291 437 050

Call, or visit our factory to find out why

TimberTecs

TradTruss

SolidLox

Make things easy for you & your architect

Traditional Green Oak, Douglas Fir & Glulam Trusses

Easy to Build ‘Heritage’ Post & Beam System

Access specialist timber engineering ‘know-how’. Get help with SIP & timber design and talking to planners. Buy drawings, planning, engineering, project management and other Professional Building Services for your project.

Design doesn’t have to stop at the walls. A large eye-catching feature green oak truss, or entrance frame, will add a bright, open, airy feel to your home. Choose from standard or bespoke designs for new or replacement structurally engineered trusses, beams & components.

Full height entrances, orangeries, porches. Check our prices now.

The UK’s largest range of standard garages & car ports on-line, all rationalised for speed, efficiency and economy. Highly customisable. Rooms in the roof, raised eaves, bespoke designs, garden rooms, outdoor kitchens, stables, and more.

Wide range of roof coverings, claddings, windows, insulation, etc. for your perfect ‘Traditional’ building.

Simply Self Build

Simply Build Extensions

Create Your New Energy Saving Home

Enjoy more space for the whole family

Eco-Build Comfort, Quality and Affordability.

Standard & bespoke houses and bungalows; special features and components; traditional green oak buildings, soaring cathedral entrances and more. SIP, Timber & CLT frames. Full design, engineering, technical support, QS & project management. Gallery of ready to build homes.

Ground floor, first floor, roof conversions, complete remodeling, granny annexes, garden studios – whatever you want choose the most affordable, eco-friendly, energy saving extension for you. Ensure you understand the different stages of construction and how to avoid the common pitfalls with our useful guides. Call us now

01291 437050

www.BenfieldATTgroup.co.uk

info@BenfieldATT.uk

5-6 Castle Way, Caldicot, Mon. NP26 5PR

AGLC, Manchester University

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Castle Street, Liverpool

Beautiful hardwood street furniture for the UK’s most vibrant public spaces

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