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February / March 2012

T H E A R C H I T E C T U R A L T E C H N O L O G I S T S B O O K

Welcome to the digital edition of February/March’s The Architectural Technologists Book. The latest building news, opinions, products, projects and images - they’re all here!

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MX DuraStone Shower TraysPage 25. www.mx-group.com

Designed/built

News and announcements

Ecobuild 2012

Gallery - the BIG pictures

Building product news

Opinion

Timber Feature

Building project news

contents

Published by: Link2Media Architectural Publications Ltd Editorial Office: Barn 3, Dunston Business Village, Stafford Road, Dunston, Stafford ST18 9AB Tel: 01785 711591 Fax: 0845 862 8639e:info@link2media.co.uk www.link2media.co.uk

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atb:designed/built

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Iconic Lotus Hotel Opens For BusinessThe Atkins-designed 355 room five star Crowne Plaza Hotel has opened to visitors, and forms a key component for the development of the new port city of Lingang. The so-called ‘Lotus’ hotel sits in the middle of a perfectly circular 500 hectare lake, near Shanghai in China and is the centrepiece of the area masterplan.

Atkins was appointed by the developer, Shanghai Harbour City Group, to provide architecture, planning and landscape consultancy services. The company has produced a dramatic design that combines architectural excellence with a highly functional hotel layout. The central drum, containing the reception and lobby, connects the hotel’s five 'leaves', containing either hotel rooms, restaurant spaces or meeting rooms. These leaf forms challenge the typical hotel layout plan by introducing atrium gardens, bringing natural light into each area.

Atkins’ design director, Eddie Cassidy, commented: "The client's brief called for a striking landmark, but limited the height to only 15 metres. Our competition-winning design adopted the image of a natural form, a lotus flower that appears as though it is floating in the middle of a circular lake."

The Lotus Hotel’s official opening will take place in the spring. It is the latest in a portfolio of creative and innovative building solutions provided by Atkins' architecture and urban design team in China and the SE Asia region. Other hospitality projects in the region include the MIPIM gold award winning Intercontinental hotel for Shimao in Songjiang, ongoing design work for an Alila resport complex in Li Shui, and recent hotel commissions for the developers Huarong and Donglord.www.atkinsglobal.com

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atb:news

NVELOPE Is The New Name In Rainscreen Cladding Support

NVELOPE Rainscreen Systems Ltd is the new name in rainscreen cladding support systems serving architects, contractors and OEM’s, previously known as Eurofox Engineering Ltd. NVELOPE will build on the acknowledged strengths of the Eurofox Engineering brand, including its reputation for quality products and fast, responsive service. The transition to NVELOPE is marked by the launch of a series of innovative products and systems, the introduction of dynamic project checklist specification software which covers pricing, thermal and static calculation and a comprehensive new look. Manufactured in the UK and developed using the highest specification alloys, NVELOPE products and systems are ideal for supporting a wide variety of façade materials. The company’s range of rainscreen brackets and grid systems can be optimised for specific projects thanks to the expertise of its technical design support service. www.nvelope.com

Enquiry No. 1

Remmers Make Mixing Simple with Innovative New Packaging

With the increasing demands for the safe disposal of packaging, Remmers continue to lead the way in innovative packaging solutions by reducing the impact on the environment when it comes to disposal.The task - how can we make mixing resins and hardeners “fool proof”? The solution is brilliantly simple – deliver the products in a multi-chamber bag. With this new bag mixing errors are now impossible. The components are packaged in the current mixing ratio in a single plastic bag separated by a plastic clip which when removed; the two components in the closed bag can be safely

and cleanly mixed by kneading. It takes less than 60 seconds. After mixing, the contents of the bag are cleanly squeezed out through a screw-on nozzle just by rolling up the bag.www.remmers.co.uk

Enquiry No. 4

INNOVATION News – South East Edition

Hauraton Limited has published their latest INNOVATION Surface Water Drainage News – London and South East edition. Major drainage projects featured are, the EDF London Eye, Central St Giles development in Holborn, drainage scheme on Cheapside, London, Slotted drainage at the Grange Tower Bridge Hotel and drainage schemes in Supermarket car parks. The drainage ranges used in the projects, FASERFIX®, RECYFIX® and SLOTTED drainage, can be found in the company’s CIVILS and LANDSCAPING catalogues available in hardcopy or turn page digital format.www.hauraton.co.uk and click on INNOVATION NEWS South East Edition for your downloadable digital copy.

Enquiry No. 5

New Singapore Subsidiary For GEZE

GEZE has established a new subsidiary in Singapore in response to increasing demand in South East Asia for high quality products and service. The Singapore headquarters marks the next step in GEZE’s international strategy to maximise opportunities in the Asia Pacific Region. The new South East Asian team will further expand GEZE’s flexible and highly efficient global sales and service network. In an ultra-modern showroom housed within the new headquarters, staff will be able to display and demonstrate the full GEZE product range, including automatic door systems, door closer technology, sliding door systems, window and ventilation technology, smoke and heat extraction systems (RWA), escape route and emergency exit and access control systems, as well as glass products.www.geze.co.uk

Enquiry No. 2

Elta Congratulations For CIBSE Award Winner

Elta Fans is pleased to congratulate Imtech Aqua Ltd as winners of the Elta sponsored category in the prestigious CIBSE Building Performance Awards 2012 presented at a Gala Dinner at the Grosvenor House, London on 8 February. David Osgerby, Managing Director of Elta Fans joined guest presenter Huw Edwards on stage to give the ‘Contractor of the Year’ award to Imtech Aqua Ltd. Amongst the guests on the Elta table was Les Fish, Managing Director of Ziehl-Abegg in the UK. In January this year, Elta announced a strategic alliance with Ziehl-Abegg to use the company’s motors and impellers as part of a commitment from Elta to meet the new energy and climate change legislation being introduced throughout Europe.www.eltafans.com

Enquiry No. 3

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atb:news

Launching at the Surface Design Show on February 8th 2012, a new RIBA approved CPD seminar on the innovative use of solid surfaces for beautiful and sustainable rainscreen facades is now available from DuPont™ Corian®, the hi-tech surface offering outstanding properties for exterior building applications.

The seminar, entitled ‘Modern Solid Surface Materials for Rainscreen Facades,’ is presented by design professional Phil Hutfield, who during his three years as Design Consultant to DuPont® Corian® in the UK has worked on multiple installation projects with the material and also a ‘Knowledge Transfer Partnership’ project with a local university specifically on DuPont® Corian® as a Rainscreen Façade.

Solid Surface material for use as a rainscreen façade is a relatively new market segment. This one hour seminar details the product characteristics of solid surface material that make it particularly appropriate to this performance and design use. It gives an overview of the installation process, especially focusing on

fixing systems available; outlines the design potential, showing specialist features of solid surface material; and provides a history of solid surface material as a rainscreen façade through the use of projects and photographic examples of applications. The seminar includes full visual support, actual samples and further appendices.

In recent years the world of architecture has made the exciting discovery about how this high-performance decorative material can apply its multiple talents as impressively to the exterior of a building as to its interior. First impressions count and a beautifully functional rain-screen façade created from DuPont™ Corian® high-tech surface will keep looking and performing to its best for the long term. Furthermore a variety of design and decorative effects can be achieved with the material, which is available in 37 colours for external façades. It is compatible with a ‘secret’ fix undercut anchor system and its lightweight, workable properties mean that fabrication and fitting run smoothly both off and on site. Whether creating an apparently ‘seamless’ monolithic look, puzzle-like patterns or engraved, textured and backlit effects, DuPont™ Corian® offers a façade solution like no other.

Façades created from DuPont™ Corian® can also enhance the sustainability of a building, by offering excellent durability, ease of maintenance and repairability, thereby affording the building exterior a long and valuable life. By helping to protect the building structure, and especially if acting together with an advanced membrane such as DuPont™ Tyvek® UV Façade, when performing the function of a rainscreen it’s use can also contribute to energy savings. www.corian.co.uk

Enquiry No. 6

DuPont™ Corian® Presents New RIBA Approved CPD On Rainscreen Facades

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atb:news

Portakabin Identified As One Of Britain’s ‘Brightest Businesses’

Portakabin, has been listed as one of Britain’s Brightest Businesses in the Telegraph 1000 – a celebration of companies that have thrived in the economic storm and as star performers, are set to be the foundation of the UK’s recovery. In the survey, 1,000 privately-owned and Alternative Investment Market-listed companies were identified as having shown strong resilience during the recession, in sectors as diverse as farming, IT, retail, professional services and construction, with sales of between £5m and £500m. This recognition follows the award to Portakabin of the coveted top rating by Dun & Bradstreet – an internationally-recognised indicator of the low risk and high creditworthiness of the company. This accolade put Portakabin in the top 15 per cent of all companies in the UK and Ireland for financial stability. Key to the success of Portakabin has been its unrivalled track record of delivering buildings for both interim and permanent use – on time and on budget. Over the past eight years, it has delivered an unprecedented 99.7 per cent of projects on programme and on cost. This performance is in sharp contrast to industry figures released by Constructing Excellence which have shown that just 63 per cent of construction projects delivered in the past year were on budget, and only 45 per cent were completed on programme (source: UK Industry Performance Report 2011, Constructing Excellence/Glenigan).www.portanews.co.uk

Enquiry No. 9

Smart’s Health And Safety Accreditation Raises The Bar

Smart Architectural Aluminium has successfully attained the BS OHSAS 18001 Occupational Health and Safety standard. This award accompanies the Company’s current ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems and ISO 14001 Environment Management Systems standards, making Smart the first aluminium

systems company in the UK to attain all three standards. The BS OHSAS 18001 Occupational Health and Safety standard is an internationally recognised assessment that has been developed to help organisations to identify, monitor and reduce potential risks in their health and safety obligations.

To attain the standard Smart were able to demonstrate that they have put in place planning and management policies for potential risks, emergency preparedness and awareness and also a monitoring procedure to reduce the risk of accidents. www.smartsystems.co.uk

Enquiry No. 7

VEKA's Stevenswood Opens New Aberdeen Trade Counter

Following on from two back-to-back record years, Stevenswood, one of Scotland’s largest trade window, door, conservatory and kitchen fabricators has opened its fifth trade counter, in Aberdeen. From their state-of-the-art LEAN manufacturing base in Livingston, Stevenswood offers the full range from the very latest VEKA FS 70mm system, including: casement, tilt and turn, reversible and vertical sash windows as well as a full range of doors; from VEKA composite doors, PVC-U panel doors and the new VEKA FS patio and Bi-fold doors. Along with a full range of colour coordinated rigid built kitchens, PVC-U trims and glazing ancillaries – Stevenswood really is a genuine one-stop-shop for the building and joinery trades. With a customer base of over 2,000 builders and joiners serviced from branches in Edinburgh, Dundee, Kilmarnock, Livingston and now Aberdeen, the company has built their business on superb customer service. www.vekauk.com

Enquiry No. 8

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atb:news

Call For Brick Awards 2012The search is underway once more to find the best brickwork in action for the 2012 Brick Awards, organised by the Brick Development Association. The Awards are one of the top design and construction awards in the country and show just

what brick can achieve. Entrants are judged on a wide range of architectural design factors including demonstrating the building fabric’s sustainability credentials and

the aesthetical choice, blend and bond of brick. The judges are also seeking attention to structural and aesthetical brick detailing, the buildings contribution to its context and quality of craftsmanship. The only stipulation is that the project – unless it’s featured in the Worldwide category – must feature clay bricks or pavers made by BDA members. The 2012 Brick Awards will be presented at the Marriott Grosvenor Square Hotel in London on 13 November. Entry forms and further information about the categories are available on the BDA website, www.brick.org.uk/brick-awards-2012-entry-form/. The closing date for entries is 15 June 2012.

Enquiry No. 11

...but no other rainwater system has one quite like it.

Telephone: +44 121 585 2780 • Fax: +44 121 585 2782 Email: buildingproducts.sales@lindab.co.uk • www.lindab.co.uk

Combined with high performance and competitive pricing Rainline is one of the most effective solutions for the control of rain drainage on all types of buildings.

Rainline’s polyester coated galvanised steel construction offers minimal thermal movement and UV stability.

It will not crack, fade, blister or peel, is highly resistant to corrosion and virtually maintenance free.

Available in 10 standard high build polyester colours the finish of which is guaranteed for 15 years Rainline is also available in natural copper and Aluzinc.

At the end of its natural life, Rainline can be recycled further underpinning its carbon footprint and whole life costing credentials.

Rainline’s carbon footprint is

significantly lower than many rainwater systems on the market, making it the

ideal choice when sustainability is a

key requirement.

Lindab Ltd Building Products Division, Shenstone Trading Estate, Halesowen, West Midlands B63 3XB

rainline sustainable rainwater systems in steel

Simpson Strong-Tie Unveils Its New Catalogue For 2012

ndustry leader, Simpson Strong-Tie has unveiled its new 2012 catalogue, which gives customers a complete guide of its range of structural

connectors for timber and masonry construction.This eagerly-awaited catalogue, which is available as a hard copy, CD-Rom or as a download from the Simpson Strong-Tie website, details full descriptions of each product along with technical information and load capacities. As well as featuring long established products, this industry bible also details new product ranges, including the I-Bean hold support (IHS), safety fast lite

(SFLHI) and a range of connectors for use with Structurally Insulated Panels. There are also even more products with European Technical Approval (ETA), and therefore, CE approved.To download the new catalogue or to request a hard copy of CD-Rom version please visit www.strongtie.co.uk

Enquiry No. 10

Enquiry No. 12

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Howarth Goes Green At Ecobuild

The two specialist manufacturing divisions of the Howarth Timber Group will be demonstrating sustainability at Ecobuild (Stand S1420) by launching two landmark products. Howarth Timber Engineering’s C6 closed panel system is a fully structural off-site manufactured timber frame solution which offers innovative advantages over current standard frame structures, such as fast build times, the cost certainty of single source supply and reduced waste through off-site assembly… and impressively low U-values. Howarth Windows & Doors’ new STORVIKSKD double and STORVIKSKT triple glazed windows provide the ultimate in energy performance down to a U-value of 0.8, whilst maintaining the aesthetics of Howarth’s Flush Fit range. Incorporating 24mm or 44mm sealed units, the frames can achieve a BFRC ‘A’ rating if required and meet Secured by Design standards. www.howarth-timber.co.uk

Enquiry No. 17

Senior’s To Launch New Fibre System At Ecobuild

Senior Architectural Systems has a twin focus at Ecobuild 2012. Centre stage is the launch of Senior Fibre Systems’ exciting new fibreglass windows and doors, and alongside will be an extended range from Senior’s Hybrid family of engineering timber and aluminium windows, doors and curtain wall products. Senior Fibre Systems encompasses an innovate range of pultruded fibreglass windows and doors, offering impressively high specification and excellent acoustic performance. Frames are environmentally friendly and boast superior energy efficiency without the need for thermal breaks. Profiles are inherently stable and fully repairable and so ideal where robustness and predictable lifespan are commercial desirable. Senior Hybrid Systems’ range of engineered timber internally and coated aluminium externally

has been further expanded with a number of key additions. These include the development of two casement window designs aimed, respectively, at domestic and commercial markets, along with a tilt and turn and a vertical sliding variant. www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk

Enquiry No. 16

Brick Development Association Sets Sustainability Policy For The Brick Industry

Actively demonstrating its long-term commitment to sustainability on Stand N1450, the Brick Development Association (BDA) is keen to promote the virtues of building with brick and to dispel any common misconceptions including cost, durability and environmental issues. The Brick Development Association (BDA) which represents the majority of the United Kingdom and Ireland’s clay brick and paver industries has now published the Industry’s sustainability credentials in a brochure entitled; “Brick: Building A Sustainable Resource For The Future”. The brochure provides crucial information for everyone involved in the specification of brick and masonry walling systems. All the facts laid down in it are fully supported by research and independent assessments. www.brick.org.uk

Enquiry No. 14

Solarlux Exhibits At Ecobuild Stand No N240

Solarlux Systems Ltd will be at the popular EcoBuild Exhibition at Excel in March. Solarlux manufacture folding doors, wintergardens, balcony glazing systems and glass canopies. Their stand will feature balcony glazing - the SL25, SL25XXL and parapet glazing the SL45, it will also feature the SL97, a wood and aluminium folding door, which is the most thermally efficient folding door on the market today and the SL82, aluminium folding glass door which is unique in that it gives the appearance of a continuous glass facade due to the stepped glazing and slim external frame. The SL82 has been awarded the red dot and iF Design Award and is suitable for both domestic as well as commercial installations. www.solarlux.co.uk

Enquiry No. 13

Building Regulations Compliance Testing With BSRIA At Ecobuild

BSRIA provides an independent nationwide, one-stop-shop to prove compliance with Building Regulations. Their accredited services along with experience from thousands of tests help all types of buildings pass first time and ensure certificates are recognised by Building Control. Tests include Airtightness to Part L in both domestic and commercial buildings, Acoustics for Part E on party walls and floors and Ventilation assessment on systems to Part F. BSRIA Instrument Solutions can provide a full range of UKAS calibrated instrumentation to help demonstrate a system performance or the buildings fabric integrity. Visit BSRIA on stand N1620 www.bis.fm

Enquiry No. 15

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Ancon To Exhibit Solutions To Heat Loss In Buildings At Ecobuild 2012 And Announces An Alliance With Brick Manufacturer Ibstock

Ancon Building Products is joining other leading manufacturers of sustainable, energy-efficient construction solutions and showcasing its range at Ecobuild 2012. Stand number N1110 will address the important

issue of heat loss through thermal bridging. It will feature Ancon’s extensive range of low thermal conductivity cavity wall ties, which includes the unique basalt-fibre TeploTie. Also on display will be a range of Thermal Breaks for use at other locations where the insulated building envelope is interrupted,

such as balconies and brickwork support brackets. Ancon will be joined on stand N1110 by Ibstock. This Ancon-Ibstock alliance, specifically for Ecobuild 2012, brings together two areas of expertise from within the masonry sector. www.ancon.co.uk

Enquiry No. 19

Smart At Ecobuild 2012

Smart Architectural Aluminium has announced that they are to exhibit at this year’s Ecobuild Exhibition, held at London Excel from 20th to 22nd March. Ecobuild has grown quickly over the last few years to become the world’s leading event dedicated to promoting all aspects of sustainable construction. Last year the event attracted over 60,000 key decision makers from across the construction industry. This will be the first time that the South West based systems supplier has been involved with the show, so why chose to this year to exhibit? Smart will also be exhibiting a selection of their latest energy efficient profile systems. Among these will be Greenstar, an ultra low U value commercial window capable of achieving a U value of 1.0 W/m²K. Visitors will also be able to view the Alitherm 800 W.E.R. ‘A’ rated window. The Evolution steel replacement window that is ideal for large scale heritage applications. Smart will also be exhibiting their unique Smart Wall thermally broken, shop-front screen and door. Smart Wall is the UK’s first fully-thermally broken shop-front system and also the first fully thermally broken aluminium door to be successfully security tested to LPS 1175 level 2 and EN 1627 level 3. Visit Stand N210 in the North Hall at Ecobuild, London Excel from 20th to 22nd March 2012. www.smartsystems.co.uk

Enquiry No. 20

NIBE Energy Systems At Ecobuild 2012

NIBE Energy Systems Ltd., one of the country’s innovators in the development and supply of domestic and commercial renewable energy heating systems, will be showing a wide range of its products on Stand S3210 at Ecobuild 2012. NIBE will be launching their new F1345 advanced ground source heat pump specifically designed for large residential and commercial installations. With the NIBE MODBUS 40 accessory, the new NIBE F1345 ground source heat pump can be controlled via a BMS system and there are other accessories available. NIBE will show a complete range of the company’s systems designed to supply energy for central heating and hot water supply using exhaust air from the home, from air in the outside atmosphere, from ground sources and will also include NIBE Solar Thermal. www.nibe.co.uk

Enquiry No. 18

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Dallmer At Ecobuild 2012

DALLMER LTD. will be showing a wide range of its products on Stand S30 at Ecobuild 2012 on 20th to 22nd March at ExCel in London’s docklands. With the continuing interest in energy conservation from the public,

the industry and from Government. DALLMER LTD. will show products from their hugely diverse range,

all of which, they are proud to say are made just 300 miles from the ExCel exhibition venue. That means a major reduction to the carbon-footprint generated by transport. On show will be their enhanced CeraLine linear shower drain range, RenovaDrain, to reduce the cost of roof refurbishment as well as StauSafe flood protection products.www.dallmer.de/en

Enquiry No. 21

VMZINC Launch Mozaik Façade At Ecobuild

Rolled zinc market leader VMZINC will be on stand N1520 focussing primarily on its range of façade systems. These will include Composite, Overlapping and Interlocking panels in addition to the

Mozaik cassette which consists of square and rectangular modules. The streamlined finish is achieved using a fixing method which makes joints invisible. Zinc rainscreen wall panels made by partner fabricators will also illustrate zinc’s design versatility. www.vmzinc.co.uk

Enquiry No. 22

A Stand That Stands Out

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13296_Stelrad Press 120x196_Layout 1 26/01/2012 09:49 Page 1

Euroclad will be displaying a stand made entirely from its own products at Ecobuild this year (N1360). The recyclable wall and roof construction demonstrates that attractive design can be central to sustainable systems. A LINEAR rainscreen façade wall will be constructed using the world-renowned ALPOLIC/fr aluminium composite material (ACM) whilst a painted aluminium Vieo roof exhibits an attractive, thermally efficient and sustainable roof construction. Vieo is becoming increasingly popular for its combination of modern installation methods with a retrospective look; similar to traditional zinc roofs but faster to install and more cost-effective.www.euroclad.com

Enquiry No. 23

Enquiry No. 24

PLEASE QUOTE SPACEORDER NUMBER ON

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Stannah Lifts

Commercial Advert – Microlifts

Full page – H297 x W230 mm

Publication

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S/O No.

The Architectural Technologist Book

March 2012

21175

Meet the family

Project: Clissold Park Café – part of the £multi-millionrefurbishment of Clissold House and 54-acre community park,an 18th Century, Grade II listed former mansion and groundslocated in Stoke Newington in the London Borough of Hackney

Client: Hackney Council

Principal Contractor: Mansell Construction Services Limited

Architect: Richard Griffiths Architects

Service lifts: 2x Stannah Microlift 50B dumbwaiters

Serviced by: London & South East branch of Stannah LiftServices (Crayford)

Result: A cost-conscious solution to pumping new life into the‘Heart of Hackney’ – revitalising a steady stream of visitors aspart of the massive restoration of a much-loved public amenity.

Call Stannah on 01264 339090

www.stannahlifts.co.uk

Community park for long days out. Continual catering flow over two floors.1000s of visitors refreshed.What can a Stannah service lift do for you?

Passenger Escalators and Platform Goods and Lift Bespoke Lift ServiceLifts Moving Walkways Lifts Service Lifts Refurbishment Lifts and Repair

Enquiry No. 25

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Gilgen Curved Sliding Door Solves Architectural Challenge At Tate St Ives

GALLERY

at Tate St Ives, as part of the refurbishment of the main entrance.

Working with London based Evans and Shalev Architects and the gallery, Gilgen supplied a curved sliding door together with an internal single sliding door. The specification required a practical door solution which not only allowed exceptional pedestrian throughput, but would also blend seamlessly with the existing elegant, curved facade and upper level architectural glass features of the building.

Additionally, the outer doors were required to withstand hurricane force Atlantic winds and the affects of salt water. Gilgen recommended an external curved sliding door and an internal single sliding door to replace the existing swing doors to fully meet the criteria.

The bespoke curved sliding door was manufactured to fit the existing building façade and installed to enclose the existing porch area of the entrance. The striking, 3m x 3m all glass, convex curved sliding door

has a radius of 6.3m giving a clear walk through area of 3.2m enabling visitors to pass through with ease, even at extremely busy times.

Gilgen also recommended laminated glass and a marine paint finish to withstand the affects of the weather and salt water and installed a special Y designed tracking system to enable the stone paving to be laid right up to the doors.

The existing swing doors have been replaced with a single sliding door. This door also maximizes the clear walk through area of the doorway and provides a comfortable inner entrance for visitors. Both installations fully meet BS7036 regulations and requirements under the Disability Discriminations Act.

The Gilgen SRM curved sliding door is available in either convex or concave configuration with radii to meet any specification. They can be supplied in full or half circle configurations and the self supporting steel structure guarantees seamless integration into existing

architecture. Safety features include auto-reverse and safety stopping mechanisms and fail safe functions open the door in the event of an emergency making it suitable for emergency exit routes.

The SLX sliding door system is technologically advanced, ensuring safety, reliability and practicality. Both systems exceed current industry legislation, meet BS7036 and requirements set out in the Disability Discrimination Act.

Gilgen Door Systems has over 80 years international experience in the design, manufacture and installation of a leading range of commercial and industrial door systems. With regional centres across the UK, Gilgen also offers a nationwide maintenance and repair service and is a member of the Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA).www.gilgendoorsystems.co.uk

Enquiry No. 26

Gilgen Door Systems has supplied and installed an elegant curved sliding door

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The New Hartlepool College – One Of The Largest UK Applications Of Wicona

GALLERY

19

Wicona’s Wictec 50 aluminium roof glazing system has been completed at the new £53m Hartlepool College of Further Education.

This striking college campus was designed by Bond Bryan Architects and built by Miller Construction. The scheme comprises two blocks which are linked by a full height atrium created with Wicona roof glazing and forming the main entrance and circulation space.

The central atrium has a complex fan-shaped roof which uses faceted glazing that radiates outwards and follows the curve of the building. The roof glazing system is sufficiently robust to carry large unsupported spans of glass up to 2.3m wide – 6mm solar control toughened glass for the outer pane with up to 8.8mm clear laminated inner panes.

Two mono-pitch glazed roofs with a 15° incline were specified for the north and east wings, with automated roof lights to the vertical areas to provide natural ventilation when needed.

Commenting on the roof glazing, Bobby Simpson, Façade and Cladding Inspector at Miller Construction, said, “The Wicona roof glazing is well designed with effective drainage, and is a dry system so it is not affected by poor weather conditions during installation – a bonus for UK installation.”

“We used the system for the Hartlepool project, and have been very pleased with the results. It came together well on site, was user friendly, and simple to install – all key considerations for our project teams. The installation phase went well, and the system has achieved an impressive faceted roof design that provides a dramatic top to a central atrium as well as some large areas of sloped glazing.”

Adam Jones, Associate at Bond Bryan Architects, said, “The roof glazing on this project is extremely effective. The fabrication was to a high standard and the fanned effect above the central core provides a powerful feature, bringing a lovely quality of light into the space.”

The new Hartlepool College of Further Education provides workshops and technical training centres for building services, aerospace, construction, mechanical and electrical engineering and motor vehicles. Other facilities include high quality conference facilities, a fitness suite, restaurant, and hair and beauty salons which are accessible to the public.

The Wicona roof glazing system has been used extensively internationally on a wide range of technically challenging projects and is now available in the UK and Ireland. It has been engineered to use penetrating transoms to achieve more efficient drainage and avoid pooling of water which can result in water ingress.

Other features of the system include:• Simple to fabricate and install, saving

time on site• Engineered for the creation of large

unsupported spans• Sufficiently robust to meet specific

project requirements for glazed roofs such as wind and snow loads

• Adryglazedsystemwhichwillachievewater tightness without any reliance on sealants

• Fire rating to 30 minutes with theWictec 50 FP option

• Structural glazing option to give theappearance of uninterrupted spans of glass

• Theoptionofintegratedflushpressureplates for further aesthetic appeal.

With more than two decades of experience in complex and bespoke aluminium façades and 10 years’ on-site experience in the UK, Wicona offers a range of technically advanced façade systems which now includes unitised and stick curtain walling, structural and roof glazing, highly insulated window systems and heavy duty doors.

Wicona is also the first façade specialist to offer a complete turnkey service for the building envelope. From design concepts to fabrication, installation, testing and handover, Wicona and its partners will manage the full façade project, ensuring a seamless approach and complete peace of mind for architects, contractors and developers. www.wicona.co.uk

Enquiry No. 27

One of the largest UK applications of Roof Glazing

20

Solarlux’s SL82 Installed At Chaobaby Thai Restaurant The Bull Ring Shopping centre is an iconic

GALLERY

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opened their latest restaurant in the shopping centre under the name Choababy and installed Solarlux SL82 folding doors at the front of the restaurant so that the diners can use the terrace area as well in summer. The high insulation values ensure that diners are warm in winter too.

The SL82 was launched in 2009 and is an entirely new all-aluminium system which takes folding doors to the next level – and sets a new benchmark for the folding door market.

The overall impression that the SL82 achieves is of one harmonious glass effect due to the exterior glazing overlapping the

frame profile creating the overall glazed effect and yet the visible frame retaining the glass is only 8mm thick. The profile is a strong multi cavity, thermally insulated with 4 fold rolled-in insulation bars. With double or triple glazing, of the customer’s choice, the unit offers the best possible heat insulation and has a u value of 1.2Wm2K.

Panel sizes can be up to 1000mm wide x 2500mm high. Floor tracks can either be surface mounted or flush which allows easy access. For added security it has the Solarlux multi-point locking system. The aluminium can be powder coated to any RAL colour.

The SL82 has also been awarded the prestigious reddot design award in 2010 and the iF Design Award also in 2010. The SL82 is suitable for Commercial facades, Domestic living areas, Wintergardens or façade designs.

This is just one system from a family of over 18 folding door styles that are suitable for installations ranging from Balconies to high end domestic applications.www.solarlux.co.uk

Enquiry No. 28

building and was redeveloped in 2003. Thai restaurant group Chaophray have

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New ‘Frameless’ Panoramic Sliding Door Launched By Schueco UK

New from Schueco UK, is the ASS 77 PD, a range of motorised, 'panoramic' sliding doors offering varying levels of thermal insulation. Able to accommodate very wide openings with two, three or four leaves each up to 3.2 metres wide and 3.5 metres high, these premium doors are ideal for high-end residential and commercial buildings. A key feature of all versions of the doors is the minimal profile face widths of the central meeting stiles (30 mm) and the fact that the outer frame (200 mm deep) is completely concealed in the building structure on all four sides. Glazing from 26 mm to 60 mm allows double- or triple-glazed units for optimum thermal insulation values (as low as 0.8 W/m2K on the .SI version). All versions of the Schueco ASS 77 PD sliding door are operated without the need for handles by low-noise, profile-integrated electronic drive-and-lock technology. The Schueco ASS 77 PD.NI, a non-insulated aluminium version for internal use, will be on show for the first time in the UK at Schueco's stand (S310) at Ecobuild 2012 in March. The ASS 77 PD.HI, a highly insulated aluminium version which is expected to be the main focus for the UK market, will be rolled out in early summer, followed at the beginning of 2013 with the super insulated version, ASS 77 PD.SI which will be made from an innovative frame material. mkinfobox@schueco.com

Enquiry No. 29

Samson Tritech - Strength And Elegance

TriTech, the latest product from the renowned SAMSON range of SIMONSWERK is quickly becoming the hinge of choice for Architectural Specifiers.TriTech hinges incorporate the latest design features to offer a future proof ‘fit and forget’ product, with a 25 year performance guarantee. The solid brass hinge has high performance maintenance free concealed bearings, giving a weight carrying capacity of 160Kg – Grade 14. All SAMSON hinges are available with CE marked and fire rated options, plus a full range of plated finishes, designer finials and size range of 100 x 75, 100 x 88, & 100 x 100mm.SAMSON TriTech designed to match demanding specifications and backed by SIMONSWERK’s award winning customer service. www.simonswerk.co.uk

Enquiry No. 30

Aquatiere Has The Soft Touch

The Aquatiere No Scale saltless water softener is steadily making its mark amongst architects and specifiers. Recently installed at the National Railway Museum and on North Sea Oil Rigs, the innovative softener is proving invaluable where avoiding the need for the provision of salt and ongoing maintenance is an effective method to reduce costs. A conventional salt based softener can waste up to 180,000 litres of water over a few years. The Aquatiere No Scale softener uses Template Assisted Crysalisation to change the limescale in the water to microcopic crystals of magnesium and calcium which in there natural seperated state, do not form hard scale. The unit is simply fitted onto the incoming water main and requires no power, no drain and no seperate drinking water tap. 20/40/60 litre per minute versions are available from stock, other sizes can be made to order. www.aquatiere.co.uk

Enquiry No. 31

Stelrad RadiatorsStelrad Radiators range of low surface temperature radiators – both the LST Standard and the LST Plus options – offer the perfect solution for heating systems in buildings where vulnerable people need to be protected from the levels of surface heat emitted from a standard radiator – in particular children and older people. The LST ranges – including the latest vertical LST range - are the ideal solution for heating systems in nurseries and schools, in social housing developments and sheltered housing schemes, nursing and care homes, doctors surgeries and hospitals. They have also received a warm response from the specifiers of heating systems in many commercial buildings – offices and the like - where the specifiers are unsure of the occupants or the visitors that might utilise the buildings concerned and welcome the chance to specify LST options in anticipation.www.stelrad.com

Enquiry No. 32

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Balcony Systems Launches BalcoNano® DIY Self-Cleaning Glass SolutionBalcony Systems, suppliers of glass balustrading and curved sliding patio doors, has launched its new BalcoNano® self-application glass coating process that transforms ordinary glass into self-cleaning glass. The introduction of this easy-to-apply DIY sachet solution follows the huge success of Balcony’s unique, patented factory-applied coating across its entire range of modern glass balconies, glass Juliet balconies and curved patio doors.

BalcoNano® works at a nano-scale level – a nanometre is one millionth of a millimetre - to form a hard, clear coating that leaves a super-smooth surface on the glass. It transforms the dirt-trapping microscopic pits, peaks and valleys of the underlying glass surface into one that is water-repellent or hydrophobic. Water landing on the coated glass curls into droplets that quickly roll away, so any dirt, grime or deposits washes off easily to keep the glass surface looking new and cleaner for longer.

“Having achieved tremendous success and high levels of customer satisfaction with our pre-applied revolutionary coating, it was clear there was a demand from our customers, dealers and installers for an answer to protecting already-installed glass,” explains Balcony Managing Director, Effi Wolff. “As customers started to recognise the immense benefit of our self-cleaning glass coating that dramatically reduces cleaning cycles, we rose to the challenge in creating the BalcoNano® sachets system. It meets this obvious market need for a convenient on-site application, which also works for other glass products and elements so these too can enjoy the protective advantages of the coating,” he continues.

Balcony adapted its factory-applied coating so BalcoNano® can now be applied to glass that is already installed using a two-part sachet process - a special glass cleaner and the BalcoNano® coating. Each sachet contains a pre-soaked towelette ready for immediate use. Designed for use by the homeowner or professionals alike, the unique coating can be applied in minutes to existing glass in doors and windows, conservatories, shower enclosures and much more.

Because the coating chemistry works just as well on other silica-based products such as ceramics, porcelain, marble and stone, the sachets can be used to apply the coating to kitchen tops, sinks, ceramic tiles and many other areas. Glass with severe surface deterioration and corrosion can sometimes be restored using the BalcoNano® Heavy Duty Cleaner. This high-strength glass cleaner

releases deeply-lodged deposits that have accumulated over time. Once the glass surface is free of imbedded impurities, the BalcoNano® coating must be applied to protect it from future contamination.

Effi adds: “The BalcoNano® glass coating offers an eco-friendly and durable solution that literally pays for itself; both in saved cleaning frequency and time, plus in eliminating the need for use of expensive chemical cleaners.”

Customer feedback on the BalcoNano® glass coating has been extremely positive, with many homeowners commenting on much lower maintenance needed. Bryan and Melanie Heslop from Tyne and Wear, said: “Our Juliette balcony overlooks the sea, so the self-cleaning glass means lower maintenance and less cleaning because of the salt air.”

Adrian and Catrin Hughes from West Wales, reported: “We have noticed a difference with the self-cleaning glass coating. Our Juliette balcony keeps a lot cleaner compared to the windows and we keep the countryside views.” Brett and Helena James from Margate, Kent, said: “Despite being close to the sea, we’ve not had to clean the self-cleaning glass panels in the eight months since the balcony was installed.”

Paul and Margaret Ratcliffe from Sheffield, commented: “We specified self-cleaning coated glass as it really does work; there’s a noticeable difference compared to normal glass. It stays much cleaner as the water runs off it quickly. Being glass, the balcony lets in plenty of light and keeps the garden views.” Peter Morley from Taunton, Somerset, reported: “The self-cleaning glass does stay very clean. In the four months since the Juliette balcony was installed, I’ve not had to clean it.”

www.balconano.com

Enquiry No. 33

COATED UNCOATED

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Securistyle Succeeds Around the World

Securistyle, the well established manufacturer of quality, innovative hardware for the window and door industries, is pleased to report continued success not only in the UK, but around the world. Dave Walsh, Sales Director of Securistyle comments on some of the highlights the company has seen: “Securistyle has been exporting hardware around the world for many years now but sales in China have been doing particularly well recently. Our products have been used in the prestigious GT Tower East in South Korea and this year will see the first two projects to use our popular Parallel Plus Hinges in India. As well as the Far East our products are becoming increasingly popular in America for their sustainability and security benefits. Securistyle’s hardware has also been used in some prestigious projects across Europe including the Neckar Tower in Germany, Mater Misericordiea University Hospital, Dublin and the Prime Tower in Switzerland. “Securistyle’s 80,000 sq ft manufacturing facility in Cheltenham also produces quality hardware for schools, hospitals, housing associations, commercial and domestic properties around the UK. Our philosophy is to continuously invest in our products and people to develop truly innovative products that exceed existing and future legislation, wherever those products end up.” www.securistyle.co.uk

Enquiry No. 35

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A Touch Of Glass From Hörmann A fully glazed garage door is the latest addition to the extensive range produced by Hörmann. The design of the ALR Vitraplan has already achieved recognition with a prestigious red dot design award.Wide flush fitting glazed panels feature Hörmann's unique, scratch resistant glazing. The door frame is hidden by the panels so that nothing detracts from the fully glazed appearance. Available in two colours, grey and brown, the smoked effect Duratec is 26mm thick which gives up to 20% better thermal insulation than standard 16mm glazing. Triple glazed panels are offered as well as the standard double glazed units to further enhance thermal insulation.Based on a highly stable, industrial ALR 40 door the ALR Vitraplan offers long term reliability and efficient performance. Depending on the frequency of use, a range of Hörmann automatic operators are available from both the industrial and SupraMatic ranges. All these operators feature soft-start soft-stop operation to maximise the lifespan of the door and minimise maintenance.As with all Hörmann sectional garage doors, the ALR Vitraplan can be supplied with the new ThermoFrame. This simple device creates a thermal break between the fabric of the building and the door, improving thermal efficiency by as much as 15%. This versatile door frame used for the ALR VitraPlan can also be supplied as an open for infill option ready to be clad in a material of your choice to suit any design challenge. Timber, metal, ceramic, plastic and many other additional materials can be used, only limited by a requirement to have a maximum thickness of 46mm and the need for a 20mm gap between panels. Weight per square metre is also a consideration to ensure that the door can operate safely and efficiently over its long life span. www.hormann.co.uk

Enquiry No. 34

The Transformation Of Harpurhey Baths

Bathers once flocked to enjoy the waters at Harpurhey Baths, north Manchester, but the Grade 2 listed building, designed by Henry Price, suffered years of decay and was boarded up in 2001. The women’s pool and laundry were incorporated into MANCAT’s sixth form college and community library, and MANCAT later merged with City College to become The Manchester College. Restoration of the first-class male pool included a major upgrade to the roof lantern and a new sprung floor over the pool to create a Theatre and Exhibition Hall.Walker Simpson Architects specified electrically operated blinds to the continuous central roof and CBS installed 16 of their System 8/140 motorised blinds with all the blinds on each elevation operating together as a group. The blinds stack neatly on the cills and run up unobtrusive guide cables to the apex. This was a challenging project for CBS, operating 8 metres above the floor level to fit blinds to a structure over one hundred years old.The System 8/140 blind from CBS is designed for sloping or horizontal glazing and requires no relief rollers or intermediate support which makes it very unobtrusive. Stainless steel cables guide the blind on its travel and keep the fabric taut at all times.www.cbsblinds.co.uk

Enquiry No. 36

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Yeoman Shield Takes Wall And Door Protection In Its Stride

With over 45 year’s experience, Yeoman Shield, the UK's market leader in wall and door protection, is expert at successfully overcoming the hurdles of keeping both interiors and exteriors smart by preventing pedestrian and vehicular damage. Yeoman Shield’s products are designed to be easily retrofitted for refurbishment projects resulting in precious savings in these times of tight budgets. Yeoman Shield’s heavy duty D-Fender designed to protect areas (including loading bays, storage and manufacturing areas) vulnerable to heavy duty traffic is now ‘up and running’ at the Olympic and Paralympics Village. www.yeomanshield.com

Enquiry No. 37

Advanced Protocol Beam Detector Improves Performance And Reduces Lifetime Cost Of Ownership

System Sensor Europe has upgraded its well-established Series 6500 intelligent beam detectors by porting the digital Advanced Protocol, which has numerous benefits that improve performance and reduce the total cost of installation and ownership. The System Sensor Advanced Protocol identifies the product type to the panel, reducing configuration time. It supports up to 159 detectors and 159 modules on a loop, reducing cabling costs; remotely controllable isolation is built-in to reduce cable fault-finding time. Access to the processed and raw sensor data enables trend logging and maintenance intervals to be optimised for maximum efficiency. It also enables the control panel remotely to change the sensitivity setting and implement remote testing from ground level, saving considerable costs when commissioning and during routine maintenance. The 6500 Series has four fixed and two automatically variable sensitivity settings, enabling it to be optimised to the operating environment. www.systemsensoreurope.com

Enquiry No. 38

Zenolite Plus – On Reflection, Simply Stunning

Zenolite Plus is a new, exciting acrylic high gloss decorative panel that offers a, colourful and light weight alternative to more traditional bathroom or shower room wall cladding materials such as ceramic tiles and glass. Exclusively available from David Clouting Ltd, Zenolite Plus features a high performance, hard coated surface that delivers a stunning high gloss finish and superb consistency of colour thanks to its unique integrated colour layer. Zenolite Plus is also highly resistant to UV light underpinned by its10 year indoor UV warranty. Available in 6 innovative colours including: Rouge, Carbon and Mocha, Zenolite Plus will transform any bathroom or shower room, achieving a strikingly dramatic finish. Zenolite’s ultra hard surface is highly resistant to scratches, stains and most domestic cleaners and solvents just requiring occasional cleaning –its non porous surface making it extremely hygienic. www.davidclouting.co.uk

Enquiry No. 39

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MX DuraStone Shower Trays – Leading The Way In Shower Tray Technology

MX Group has launched its new range of DuraStone shower trays. DuraStone shower trays incorporate all the benefits of the latest materials and technologies in producing probably the most sophisticated and versatile low profile shower tray in today’s market. The tray’s construction consists of a 2.2mm ABS acrylic capped shell that is filled with a mineral

stone resin mix. The monocoque construction is then completed with a 2mm ABS embossed base that helps adhesion when installing. The DuraStone shower tray incorporates the added benefit of torsion beams creating rigidity to the overall tray structure. At 60% lighter than a traditional stone resin tray, DuraStone complies with the HSE regulations for a one-man lift. Manufactured to BS EN14527:2006 these trays are made using WRAS approved Phthalate free materials. A variety of different shapes and sizes in both flat top and upstand options are available

within the DuraStone range. These trays could not be more versatile, as they are suitable for most screens and enclosures and incorporate a high flow 90mm waste, which allows water to flow at 32 litres per minute. www.mx-group.com

Enquiry No. 40

Elta Fans And Ziehl-Abegg Join Forces To Meet Euro Energy Legislation Head-On

Elta Fans has announced a strategic alliance with Ziehl-Abegg to use the Künzelsau based company’s motors and impellers as part of a commitment from Elta to meet the new energy and climate change legislation being introduced throughout Europe. In the HVAC sector, implementation of the European Union energy objectives is legislated by the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) and the Energy related Products (ErP) Directive. The EPBD is applicable to fan systems through Parts F and L of the Building Regulations which specifies minimum ventilation rates and Specific Fan Powers, and the ErP Directive focuses on improving energy efficiency of the fans, motors, air handling units and related equipment. Elta Fans have already been working towards meeting the requirements. The first tier of the ErP fan efficiency legislation becomes mandatory on 1st January 2013 with more onerous requirements to follow in January 2015, but the majority of the products within the new ranges being introduced by Elta from January 2012 will comply with the requirements. www.eltafans.com

Enquiry No. 41

FAKRO Conservation Style Roof Windows Combine Low Profile And Elegance

Bringing redundant buildings back into use invariably involves the creation of rooms in the roof. FAKRO roof windows, including those in conservation style, can be installed low within the roofline to retain an appearance which is sympathetic to the original building character. The end result using the EZJ flashing, as shown in the redevelopment of Berkswell Hall’s mid-Victorian Grade II* Listed stable block, is both neat and unobtrusive. The low profile is complemented by sleek, close-grain redwood pine frames, a jointing module which produces a gap of just mm and black outer cladding. All Fakro roof windows are available in conservation style and offer a minimum standard of security and safety to EN13049 Class III. In addition to providing the latest contemporary design features can also be manufactured to bespoke requirements. www.fakro.co.uk

Enquiry No. 42

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Innovation-To-Order At Howe GreenInnovation-To-Order At Howe Green

Circular Access Solutions An Emerging Trend

The technical team at Howe Green has witnessed a rise in demand for circular covers in recent months. It seems that going round for floor access is becoming popular, especially in the more design-led projects. Geared to respond to customer’s needs for bespoke products, Howe Green can deliver circular access solutions quickly and cost-efficiently.

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Howe Green is the industry’s access specialist. Best known for design and manufacture of top quality access covers for floors, walls and ceilings, Howe Green products have been first choice for some of the biggest and most prestigious building projects around the world.

Substantial investment in state-of-the art equipment and highly skilled staff has enabled the company to offer customers non-standard sizes and specifications alongside their core ranges. This is typically with no premium to pay or prohibitive time implications; something that has undoubtedly given the Hertfordshire based firm a competitive edge in today’s tough market.

Howe Green has raised the bar in recent years though as architects, specifiers and contractors are increasingly challenging them to develop bespoke products and tailored specifications for projects under ever tighter budget and time pressures.

“Every access panel we make is to the client’s exact specification and that has always been our policy” explains Richard Centa, Howe Green’s Sales and Marketing Director “But I think now more than ever we are being asked to modify specifications or develop completely bespoke products to solve problems. New product development is something the whole company is involved with. It’s a continual process led by the customer which is how it should be.”

Demand for the firms bespoke products and specialist services is diverse and spans all areas of Howe Green’s business which includes linear drainage and entrance matting as well as comprehensive access solutions. Special stainless steel tree pit covers for London’s most expensive apartment block, custom-made linear drainage systems for Blackfriars Station, 5m access cover runs for the Roman Baths attraction and bespoke covers with high voltage cable pits for London Underground are all among recent special projects. “Our industry experience and manufacturing capabilities mean we can act quickly and without having to hike prices,” Richard concludes “We provide solutions proven to save time and money – often on site when the job is in its most crucial stages”.

It is true that innovation is at the heart of every successful company and it comes from knowledge, understanding and quick response to demand. For Howe Green, it seems this is all in a days work.www.howegreen.com

Enquiry No. 43

Director Richard Centa explains why new product development is all in a days work

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Imperial Purple Is The Colour On Trend Be bold with mosaic colour this season, says Italian glass tiles specialist Trend, suggesting that purple is now becoming chic in interior design. Having talked to architects, designers and tiling retailers across the country, UK sales director Tom Anderson finds renewed enthusiasm for the purple spectrum, inspired perhaps by recent, dramatic glass mosaic designs like Trend’s Liberty Purple, which expresses the colour in an irregular palette of plum, aubergine, lavender and amethyst.

“Purple is not a ‘safe’ colour like neutral creams, browns and greys, it is a bold statement that expresses confidence, style, even opulence,” says Tom. “It is the traditional colour of wealth and status. It’s the mark of royalty and Roman emperors, which is why it is known as imperial purple. It is deep and rich, combining the coolness of blue with the hotness of red, and in the hands of the right designer can make strong, sophisticated decorative statements.”

Scattered amongst the 250 pages of Trend’s lavish online catalogue, viewable at www.trend-gb.com, fashionable shades of purple can be found permeating the entire collection. The classic 2 x 2 cm tile format [from £49 per square metre] offers iridescent purple, plum and violet Shining tiles, tonal veins of enamel and aventurina in Brillante and plainer semi-transparent mosaics in the Vitreo range. The 1.5 x 1.5 cm range [from £120 psm] extends choice in the purple spectrum to opaque glass Lux in plain shades and the opulence of Shining, created with semiprecious metal solutions in molten glass. Smaller yet, the 1 x 1 mini mosaic tiles [from £51 psm] allow for more intricate décor panels and borders, using tiny Brillante 1 x 1 designs in varying shades of purple.

Offered in 2 x 2 and 1 x 1 formats, the Aureo Lucio Orsoni designer collection [from 85p per piece] includes violet-tinted 24 carat gold mosaics; while white gold, yellow gold and platinum white tiles from the precious Modern Aureo and Traditional Aureo selections [from 65p per piece] will reflect and enhance purple hues. Trend’s full-bodied Karma glass mosaic [from £220 psm] is additionally available in plain and multi-coloured purple ‘stained glass’ effects, in a whole variety of hand-cut formats and sizes.

Karma’s depth of colour and irregular shapes are exploited in Trend’s distinctive Liberty collection [from £230 psm], designed in collaboration with Italian artist Giulio Candussio. His use of different tile shapes and sizes, with straight and sinuous lines, is perfectly expressed in Liberty Purple, which is presented in irregular film-faced modules measuring approximately 26cm x 31cm.

Further preformatted studio designs with purple notes can be found in Trend’s Miscele [from £90 psm] and Shading Blends [from £133 psm], featuring square format glass tiles in colour-coordinated designs. Mixes like Calycanthus, Happyness and Sensitivity display varying strengths of purple, while the Lavender shading blend graduates visually from near white to deep purple.

For the most dramatic decorative statements, Trend’s exclusive Wallpaper collection [from £180 psm] features the repeat pattern structure of paper or silk wallcoverings, but has the textural and hardwearing appeal of Italian glass mosaics. There are a number of purple-hued Wallpaper patterns, such as the abstract Grand, classic Floral and labyrinthine Glorious designs, and the tiles are pre-grouted and mounted on a polyethylene mattress system for quick and easy installation.

Finally, for countertops, floor tiling, panelling and other hardwearing exterior and interior finishes, there are Trend Agglomerates [from £188 psm]to continue the purple décor theme. Variously made from Italian granite, quartz or recycled glass blended with polymers, these surfaces are heat, stain, scratch and impact resistant and available in a wide choice of tile, plank and slab formats.www.trend-gb.com

Enquiry No. 44

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Broaden your horizons.

A wide range of rooflight solutions

to suit any lifestyle and environment.

Glazing Vision is the UK’s leading manufacturer ofinnovative glass rooflight solutions. From Fixed,

Hinged and Sliding Rooflights to Bespoke Designs Glazing Vision aim to lighten your environment and

improve your lifestyle.

To arrange a visit or for a brochurecall us now on 0333 8000 881.

Buy Online at www.glazingvision.co.uk

STOCK ROOFLIGHTS DELIVERED WITHIN 48HOURS!

Flushglaze with PVCells

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Link2_Layout 1 11/01/2012 10:22 Page 1

Innovative Mitsubishi Revolutionises The Production Of Sanitary Hot Water With The Launch Of The Q-Ton

In a world first for efficiency and sustainability, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) is bringing the CO2 heat pump to the commercial market. The new Q-Ton, an air-to-water heat pump, cuts energy use and significantly reduces running costs and carbon emissions. The leading edge technology includes a unique compressor which operates in a system that can heat water to 90°C - this is sustainable even when outdoor temperatures sink to -25°C. Benefits offered by the Q-Ton including consuming up to 76 per cent less energy than an electric water heater, up to 58 per cent less energy than a gas boiler, significantly lowering carbon emissions by 44 per cent compared to a gas boiler, dramatically reducing the end user’s CRC contribution and has the lowest possible GWP (Global Warming Potential) of 1. www.mitsubishichillers.eu

Enquiry No. 45

Yorkon Awarded Off-Site Construction Contract For New Academy Building In Birmingham

Yorkon, has been awarded a sub-contract package to provide a two-storey modular classroom building for principal contractor Thomas Vale Construction and Ninestiles School – a new high achieving academy in Birmingham. The architects and project managers are Ridge & Partners. Yorkon’s sub-contract will involve the use of a large 350-tonne crane to lift the steel-framed modules over the

existing school and into the courtyard. By working in partnership with the project team, this operation has been programmed for the half term holiday to minimise any disruption to teaching. The overall scheme will

accommodate six classrooms to help the school meet the increased demand for places and to replace an outdated facility. Design features will include brick cladding to the ground floor with a contrasting white finish to the upper floor; windows, doors and aluminium cladding panels in anthracite grey; canopies above each set of entrance doors; a full height glazed stairwell, and a glazed link corridor to the main school building. www.yorkon.info

Enquiry No. 46

Enquiry No. 47

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D&E Geminy High Security Range

D&E is proud to present the Geminy High Security Range of Escutcheons and key safes. The Geminy Range is designed with the ultimate security in mind from a mechanical security product.

The patented pin entry system offers an almost infinite amount of security key differs, the Geminy Range is a must for security environments where the removal of a power source can result in unwanted entry. www.dande.co.uk

Enquiry No. 49

Copper Art – Meeting The Goals Of Specifiers And Constraints Of Today’s Market

The dream of architects and designers has always been creative freedom; Flag-Soprema has added a new medium to the creative palette. An innovative copper art membrane system, that combines the beauty of traditional materials with modern technology – real copper powder within the membrane, guarantees that the membrane will oxidise and take on the patina of age, gradually turning from tawny brown to dark brown, just like real copper when exposed to the elements. Copper Art membrane is easily installed and decorative profiles can be added to replicate the beauty of a traditional folded metal seam. This system creates an unbeatable cost-benefit, and eliminates the risks associated with traditional metal roofing such as cold-bridging, air-tightness, corrosion and water ingress at penetrations and details on low pitched systems. Copper Art can be mechanically fixed or fully adhered to provide a striking and enduring finish that is light weight, making Copper Art the essential choice for new build or refurbishment projects. www.flag-soprema.co.uk

Enquiry No. 48

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Take A Fresh Look At White Doors

If your idea of white doors is the somewhat dated and tired looking moulded skin offerings found in many DIY outlets, then it’s time to think again. The new Just White Range from Vicaima presents contemporary styling, multiple surface options and different shades of white to re-invigorate this timeless classic.A white door is recognised by many interior designers as a feature that produces numerous decorative options when creating attractive room interiors, as it can be used with both bold and understated designs. The new Just White Range from Vicaima offers undiluted style and affords a fresh look for UK homes and commercial interiors.The Vicaima Just White Range creates plenty of scope for design with a choice that includes everything from a clean and simple flush surface to intricate face grooving in a selection of interesting and geometric patterns. Additionally, Just White doors can be fitted with decorative glazing and commercial openings to bring light and flexibility to interior space. Surface options include fully finished white lacquered, a superior white painted surface and white wood grain foil. All doors can be supplied within a frame if required as part of the Vicaima Portaro® or Block door kit and set systems, making fitting and assembly fast and trouble-free. In addition, FSC Certification, Fire Safety and Security can all be accommodated with the Just White Range so Vicaima can provide the perfect door for homes, offices or leisure applications as desired. www.vicaima.com/whiterange

Enquiry No. 51

Decoflame® E-Ribbon Fire

Since 2007, Decoflame has become the synonym for Danish Design and Craftsmanship on the market for bioethanol fireplaces. Comprising a large variety of both standard and made to measure bioethanol fireplace models, the decoflame® range of fires are amongst the safest and most stylish currently available. In February 2012, the Denmark-based manufacturer introduced a second generation of electronically controlled ethanol-fuelled burner – the decoflame® e-Ribbon Fire (patent pending). Featuring cutting-

edge technology, this remotely controlled burner can be installed as a stand-alone drop-down unit or as part of the decoflame® made to measure built-in bioethanol fireplace models Montreal and Orlando. The decoflame® e-Ribbon Fire combines ease of installation and operation with functional safety, introducing the joy and warmth of a real open fire to domestic and commercial fireplace applications without the need for a flue or chimney. www.decoflame.com

Enquiry No. 50

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NIBE Exhaust Air System Heats Hollies Hollies is a large Redrow Development in a rural setting that justifies the name at Hartford near Northwich. Six flats within the site are owned by Muir Housing Association, a leading social landlord in the North of England. The site does credit to both companies’ reputation for sympathetic design which includes six two bedroomed shared ownership apartments each with its own kitchen area and bathroom. One of the many attractive features of the development is that the water heating and radiator fed central heating for each apartment comes from an innovative Exhaust Air Heat Pump powered by a F205 heat pump supplied by NIBE Energy Systems and installed by MB Heating of Wigan. Exhaust Air heating really is like grabbing energy out of thin air for the system is based on harnessing the heat already created by family living, then recycling its energy before it is expelled into the outside atmosphere in the course of normal ventilation. In Hollies Farm, ventilation input is from vents situated in the dining- and bedroom walls and the warmed air is subsequently gathered at ceiling height in the kitchen and bathroom. The energy then passes to the F205 unit, one of NIBE’s new generation of heat pumps, where it is treated to a highly sophisticated heat exchange process that greatly increases the temperature by compression before passing the energy through to heat the water stored in the super insulated stainless steel cylinder incorporated in the unit.So efficient is the heat extraction process that the exhaust air is eventually expelled at a temperature close to freezing point, with the beneficial side effect of cutting emissions of carbon and noxious gases to a very minimum. The F205, despite containing the storage cylinder, all appropriate pumps and an easily read and understood control panel, is surprisingly slim-lined and the pleasantly styled unit is easily concealed in a cupboard in kitchen, bathroom or utility room. www.nibe.co.uk

Enquiry No. 52

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Performance Movement Joint Profiles From Dural UK LtdFlooring Accessories specialist Dural UK Ltd are continually updating their range of products and inventing new and better solutions that are both technically and visually exciting. They have been providing the perfect finish for all types of flooring since 1981 and all their products are at the cutting edge of design.

Dural Movement Joint Profiles can cope with heavy stresses and distribute them evenly between the foundation and floor covering. At the same time, they can prevent conduction of noise from footfall and other bodies. Even floors subject to heavy stresses remain in better condition for longer when Dural Movement Joint Profiles are specified.

For a high class finish the Dural Coloured Movement Joint Profile gives a room a seamless designer look. The Coloured Movement Joints have been the choice of specifiers for years on prestigious projects including many leading automotive brands, (Ford, Mercedes, Audi and Volkswagen). They are used in the car showrooms and workshop areas because of their durability and ability to handle a wide range of loadings. The Olympic Village, Marks and Spencers, Airports, Leisure Centers, Restaurants and Retail Outlets are other areas where this product is being / has been used.

All Dural Performance Movement Joints are designed and manufactured to exceed the requirements of BS 5385 and can be used with Slate, Natural Stone and Ceramic tiled floors. Dural UK Ltd also provide highly competent advice and support. No matter how complex the application, they always provide the perfect solution, including both products and service at the disposal of the specifier or installer.

For more information on Dural and their products visit their website www.duraluk.co.uk or contact Dural on 01924360110.

Enquiry No. 53

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Moveable Walls Offer Eco-Efficiencies

Incorporating moveable partitioning walls into a well thought out design makes a significant impact on energy costs by effectively avoiding areas being heated unnecessarily. Reflecting this need to minimise energy bills as well as reduce the carbon footprint of a building, moveable partitions specialists Style reports a sharp rise in demand for their bespoke, sustainable solutions.“Over the last 12 months we have been involved in a significant number of public sector projects in particular,” explains Julian Sargent, Style’s Group Managing Director. “I put this down to budgetary restrictions combined with a growing desire for eco-efficiencies. Facilities such as schools and colleges for example, have to look at how they can maximise room usage. Money can be saved by closing off large areas like halls and lecture theatres that are surplus to requirements at any time, therefore avoiding having to heat or light them.”As an ISO14001 Environmental Management System accredited company, Style is the sole distributor for Dorma, Skyfold and SWG in the UK and can supply and install an extensive range of extremely flexible moveable portioning solutions including an innovative ceiling mounted, vertical-rising wall that allow complete use of floor space as well as glass partitions and a range of bespoke moveable walls that can be finished to fit seamless into any room design. www.style-partitions.co.uk

Enquiry No. 55

New High Performance Louvres Launched

A new range of high performance and attractive translucent louvres is now available in the UK. Manufactured by ESSMANN, one of Europe’s leading innovators and designers of daylighting systems. The new ESSMANN lamellae, in ‘i and ih versions’, meet or exceed all relevant DIN EN and other European standards. Both can be opened electrically or pneumatically.The slim louvres are designed to be an attractive translucent solution for passive ventilation in facades, flat roofs and rooflights. Suitable for new buildings as well as refurbishment or retrofit and repair of industrial, commercial and retail buildings, they can be powder coated to any standard RAL colour. The standard ‘version i’ is for less demanding heat insulation requirements while the superior ‘version ih’, with thermally broken double-skin, is designed to offer higher insulation. Both are available with blades in aluminium or in polycarbonate with UV coating on both sides, ‘Version ih’ is constructed in a slightly different way and has five glazing options, including new 32mm thick heat insulating glass. The

highest insulation, giving a U value of 0.75W/m2K, is achieved with blades which incorporate AeroTech technology.Each louvre blade is 270mm wide and can be positioned up to 90deg for optimum natural ventilation or for smoke and heat extraction. Seven standard widths are available ranging from 600 to 2045 mm and 19 standard lengths from 875 to 3075mm. Special sizes are available on request.www.essmann.co.uk

Enquiry No. 54

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Granite Transformations Tumbles Into 2012 With Beth TweddleKitchen worktops specialist, Granite Transformations, has celebrated Olympic year by creating a Union Jack-adorned island unit, clad in its tough, hardwearing, diamond-polished material. It then invited Britain’s top gymnast, Beth Tweddle, to show off its patriotic piece by performing a series of rhythmic routines on and around the unit. As a test of the material’s strength and

resilience, Beth’s energetic vaulting, tumbling, jumps and acrobatics put it through its paces, although Granite Transformations would expect far more severe treatment in normal household and commercial use, on kitchen worktops, bar counters, tiled floors, shower surrounds and elsewhere.

The authentic Union Jack design, which is twice as wide as it is high, was achieved using a high tech water jet cutter, which sliced through the material with a high velocity mix

of water and abrasive particles, to produce the various component triangles and quadrilaterals. These were seamlessly abutted together and bonded onto construction board, creating a countertop measuring 2m x 1m. The unit is finished with 80mm deep edge strips, featuring a 3mm pencil round profile, and double-faced waterfall ends to create a rigid 90cm high structure that could be at home in a sizeable kitchen, sports club, recreational centre or licensed premises.

Rather than adhere to traditional red, white and blue, Granite Transformations chose muted white Cristallino, slate grey and blue steel finishes from its Trend

G recycled glass collection, to introduce a ‘designer look’. Made from post-consumer recycled wine, beer and mineral water bottles, with an element of polymer resin for strength and a patented Flexiweb™ backing for flexibility, it outperforms most other finishing materials like natural or engineered stone and solid synthetics.

But what made this whole exercise possible, is the distinctive slimline profile and exceptionally light weight of Granite Transformations’ surfaces. Had it been made from solid granite or stone, the unit would have been far too heavy to be moved and displayed around the country, nor would it have the inherent flexural strength to withstand Beth’s energetic, flying gymnastic routines.

Three-times World, six-times European and seven-times National champion, making her Britain’s most successful gymnast of all time, Beth Tweddle was photographed in a state-of-the-art infinity studio that allowed the full height and breadth of her fantastic gymnastic feats to be captured. She was suitably impressed with the quality of finish and sophisticated looks of Granite Transformations’ one-off Union Jack unit and took time out to admire the latest iGranite app, which previews how its whole range of granite, quartz and recycled glass worktops could look in any kitchen.

Granite Transformations wishes Beth all the best in her Olympic endeavours and will be displaying her acrobatic images in all of its UK showrooms. www.granitetransformations.co.uk

Enquiry No. 56

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Beautiful Balustrades, Stunning Staircases!If the minimalist look to reflect the open plan nature of a modern building is required; if you need to maximise light to a large open atria; to reveal, not hide, a particular architectural feature in a historical building; make the most of a stunning view or simply add the “wow” factor, then a glass balustrade system could be your solution.

M&G Olympic Products Ltd specialise in the design, manufacture and nationwide installation of structural glass and glass infill balustrade systems and associated metalwork, including staircase manufacture.

M&G Olympic Products Ltd has an impressive track record of delivering projects to a variety of clients in the Public and Private sector. Previous projects include prestigious commercial and residential developments, universities, colleges and schools, hospital facilities, MOD facilities, sports and leisure facilities, national pools and football training facilities. Previous clients include Major Building Contractors, Architects, and Local Authorities.

As part of a comprehensive package M&G Olympic Products Ltd provide a Project Management service. The team has a wide experience gained over many years and has the ability to help identify the best method of completing a project in an efficient and cost effective manner. The Design Team works with customers during the early stages of any project to undertake site surveys and produce design solutions, creating an end result to fully satisfy all criteria laid down by the client. The designers and will ensure that all plans comply with all relevant British Standard Regulations where required.

All products are manufactured at the company’s two-factory site in the centre of Sheffield which is constantly enhanced with investment in the latest state-of-the-art design and production equipment. As part of the commitment to delivering projects to specified timescales and within budget M&G Olympic Products ensure that quality is never compromised.

M&G Olympic Products has built up an excellent working relationship with manufacturers of other architectural products such as joinery and glazing companies, providing customers with complete turnkey solutions.

The experienced installation teams complete the package to ensure that M&G Olympic Products Ltd provide the client with high quality from concept to completion. www.mgolympic.co.uk

Enquiry No. 57

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Architect Christopher Sykes examines the innovative insulation technology for glazing which is having global influence for maximising daylighting while minimising heat loss

In the building industry, it is rare to find a product which is unique. Equally, it is unusual to enjoy new technology which totally changes design and construction. That’s why aerogel insulation (known as LumiraTM aerogel and previously called Nanogel® aerogel) is having such a global impact. Aerogel, the world’s best and lightest insulating solid, is widely used - particularly in the UK, mainland Europe and the US - by many different manufacturers of many different translucent cladding and rooflighting systems. Sometimes called “frozen smoke”, Lumira aerogel is a hydrophobic aerogel produced as particles, each of which consists of up to 95% air, contained in a structure with pore sizes less than the mean free path of air molecules, which severely inhibits heat transfer through the material.

The reason that this new insulation technology is so important is because architectural technologists and energy-conscious designers can now maximise large areas of daylighting while reducing energy loss. Importantly, it means that well insulated daylighting will reduce energy consumption on heating, air-conditioning and artificial lighting. It means that rooflights can be up to many times more energy efficient as their predecessors. It means that when Lumira aerogel is introduced inside the panels of translucent cladding and roofing systems a U value of up to 0.28 W/m2K is possible.

Insulation in practiceThe growing popularity of the technology has created many systems which offer the option of including Lumira aerogel in polycarbonate roof lights and panelised glazing, in fibreglass diffused cladding and roofing and also within conventional double-glazing. Projects in Europe include retail facilities, such as Carrefour, Tesco and Tegelmann’s climate market in Germany, through schools, leisure and healthcare projects, to commercial and industrial facilities, such as France’s High Speed Train workshop in Lyon.

One example is the unusual but attractive polycarbonate application for the egg-chaped chapel attached to a new convent in Belgium, designed by architects Gery Despret and Benoit Gillon. Another is Halley V1 Research Station in Antarctica where the insulated glass minimises energy loss in the most extreme conditions on earth.

In the UK, Stoakes Systems use the technology widely within their Kalwall cladding and roofing systems. One interesting project, designed by architects A&D Wejchert & Partners, is the Pearse Street Primary Care Centre in Dublin. This provides general practice care including physiotherapy, occupational therapy and nursing clinics for the local community. The three storey building, on an extremely restricted and dusty city centre site, has rooms ranged around a central courtyard.

Significant is the extensive use of the airtight Kalwall + Lumira aerogel daylighting system (www.stoakes.co.uk) which diffuses natural daylight and casts it evenly and deeply across the interior, without the presence of shadows or glare or the need for solar control. By using the insulation within the panels, a dramatically low U’ value of 0.28W/m2K is obtained - equivalent to a solid wall - thereby increasing the energy-saving performance and reducing lifecycle running costs.

For Dublin, the system incorporates the new highly efficient Kalwall Eurowindow vision panels designed to facilitate external views and optional ventilation. It also provides the added benefit of privacy which is not possible with conventional glazing.

www.cabotaerogel.com

Insulating Daylight

Author: Architect Christopher Sykes

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Enquiry No. 58

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As one of the most versatile and practical construction materials in use today, glass offers seemingly unlimited design opportunities to architects and specifiers for all types of building projects.

The inherent strength, low-maintenance and light transmitting characteristics of clear glass make it a popular choice for elegant external and internal balustrading applications. Whether for newbuild or refurbishment schemes, glass adds that touch of class to turn an important security feature into something special.

Glass balconies offer many advantages over alternative materials, such as timber or steel. Achieving clean lines with minimal use of support posts, the beautiful aesthetics of a glass balustrade instantly elevate a building’s appearance above the ordinary.

The purpose of a balustrade or railing is to provide edge protection where a fall can occur. This applies to a balcony, terrace, staircase or landing - indeed anywhere where there is a fall of more than 600mm (60cm or approximately 23.5 inches). The railing or balustrade must be sturdy enough to resist pressure applied to it and not fail, fall over, bend or distort in shape. The pressure that is applied to the balustrade or railing is called a ‘load’ or ‘loading’.

Common methods of taking this load require either posted systems or the use of structural glass. The Balcony Systems’ balustrade is a type of hybrid system that combines these two types of support in one. This unique approach offers tremendous flexibility and plenty of creative scope for design to suit even the

most individual requirements.

Depending on the specification, the balustrade can combine the strength of the handrail, glass and when needed, posts. There is no other system on the market that can achieve this. For sharply-angled balustrades, glass-to-glass corners provide the required strength for safety with the added benefit of pleasing aesthetics.

Straight and curved glass panels can be combined for visual impact, allowing for flowing lines to follow the contours of buildings or terraces. This

combination can be used to stunning effect in various applications, such as to protect areas around raised external terraces, swimming pools or ponds. Not only is maintenance reduced, but glass keeps the views to landscapes beyond, whether these are canal boats, countryside, or even Koi carp.

www.balconette.co.uk

Glass Balustrading Offers Limitless Design Concepts

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The low-maintenance benefits can be further enhanced with an innovative self-cleaning glass coating, which creates a smooth surface on both sides of the glass that quickly repels water, dirt and grime to keep the glass cleaner for longer. This reduces cleaning cycles without the need to use chemicals.

Curved and straight glass balustrading panels can also meet the most demanding of complex design and aesthetic requirements - with spectacular results. Balconies with highly-unusual shapes in combinations of convex curves, slopes and cut out of stone can be created to follow a building’s unique shapes and changing levels. In one particular project, not one balcony had a 90 degree corner in it.

Similarly, irregular geometric shapes and sharp angles can be accommodated in refurbishment projects or where terraces and outdoor spaces are added above existing buildings below. Specifying glass balustrading for these types of projects in coastal areas also provides additional protection on windy days, keeps ocean views and resists corrosion from salt spray.

Balcony Systems is a specialist in sophisticated glass and aluminium balustrading solutions. Straight or curved external and Juliet balconies offer virtually limitless creative opportunities for balustrading that is as beautiful as it is practical. Clear glass keeps the views, lets in light and is

maintenance-free. From single balustrades to multi-apartment developments, the company works with architects, designers and specifiers to deliver the most cost-effective, stylish and durable balustrade solution to exact client specifications.

Author: Effi Wolff – Managing Director - Balcony Systems

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Fire safety is a heavily regulated industry, demanding that any products being offered for fire protection purposes must be tested and certified to British or European Standards. Commonly specified to satisfy design vision as well as legislative requirements, fire glass is one of the most complex fire safety products on the market, bringing with it stringent testing parameters. However, in the context of fire glass, it is not sufficient to test the glazing in isolation. To guarantee the integrity of glazing performance in application, best practice is to manage fire glass as a system specification. To facilitate this, fire glazing must therefore be tested as a complete system. Simon Ellison, technical manager for Pyroguard at CGI International, addresses why it is not sufficient to view fire glazing as a single product, examining the dangers of specifying materials independently and highlighting the detailed areas for caution.

Fire glass is rated according to three main classifications: integrity only (E), integrity with radiation control (EW) and integrity with insulation (EI). As one of the earliest fire safety glazing products on the market, wired glass is still commonly used today for E rated applications. However, continued advancements in fire glazing technology have led to the development of clear and thinner products which are able to provide the full range of protection – from integrity only up to fully insulated, which restricts heat transfer through the glass to the unexposed face.

These modern fire glass solutions give specifiers greater flexibility in design whilst ensuring Part B of the Building Regulations, which governs fire safety, can be satisfied. From a design perspective, the challenge is often to achieve vast glazed areas but fire glass is only certified for use up to the maximum sheet size at which it was tested. It is important to realise that fire protection performance is not achieved exclusively by the glazing, which must perform as part of a system along with the frames and seals.

As such, increasingly it is best practice to demand test evidence of a complete system as opposed to the fire glazing in isolation, which must also detail a maximum glazed size. At present, the UK tests to British Standards, but in 2013 it will become mandatory to follow European (EN) rules.

Regarding the testing protocol, dependent on the application, the systems will need to be tested to the following standards: BS EN 1363/1 – fire resistance general testing requirements BS EN 1364/1 – fire resistance for non load bearing elementsBS EN 1634/1 – fire resistance and smoke doors, shutters and openable windows

There are a number of framing systems available on the market, but in screen and door apertures, the most common considerations relate to the use of

timber or steel frame constructions. Moreover, each of these material types demands a different fixing method, the detail of which can make a significant difference to system integrity when exposed to fire conditions.

Timber versus steel The inherent properties of timber give it greater insulation properties than standard steel frames. When exposed to fire, steel will deflect whereas timber

possesses natural insulation properties, maintaining its flatness almost until the point of collapse. The specification of a timber or steel frame will be determined by building design and the other construction methods which are being used.

As a natural product, timber has many more variables to consider than steel, with infinite points to be aware of with regards to timber tested systems. However, there are core factors to be taken into account, the first of which is species type. Different species will offer varying levels of fire integrity, with hardwoods providing higher levels of performance. Types of species commonly used for fire glazing systems in 60 minute applications are Sapele and Utile whereas for 30 minute performance, European red wood has been tested and shown to comply.

Beyond the species, there are further points to consider as no two trees grown will exhibit exactly the same properties. As such, the density of the product must be assessed and should range from 450kg/m2 to 750kg/m2.

When reviewing systems that have been fire tested, the specifier should also pay attention to the exact dimensions of timber, as any variation from this will render the certification invalid. Finally, where timber is concerned, it is important to verify whether the beading tested as part of a system was hardwood or softwood, and if pins or screws were used. Again, any variation from the system construction would invalidate the test evidence.

www.pyroguard.eu

The Whole Is More Than The Sum Of Its Parts

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For steel frame systems, the options available are more standardised which means there is often less room for error in system design, specification and installation. The main point of which to be aware is that standard steel frames do not provide insulation, and as such it is critical that a fire insulating frame is specified.

Steel frame manufacturers have invested a vast amount of time, resources and funds into fire testing systems, streamlining the specification process and making it easier to incorporate steel into building design. Best practice is to refer to supplier certified evidence; one good publicly available source of such information is Certifire. This organisation provides access to information on suppliers’ standard steel frames and details on which fire glazing manufacturers’ products are approved for use with different sizes.

Fire Glazing Systems – From CPD to CPR In 2013, the Construction Products Directive (CPD) will become the Construction Products Regulation (CPR), bringing with it a number of

implications for the UK construction market. The most notable changes are the introduction of mandatory CE marking and a move to European (EN) Standards testing.

Current fire testing protocol in the UK is to British Standards (BS), which leaves the thermo-couples in the testing furnace exposed. In contrast, EN testing techniques encase the thermo-couples in a ceramic and steel plate,

which is intended to standardise heat detection across different types of furnace.

This standardisation should ultimately ensure more reliable test results and consistency of product performance throughout Europe. However, the change in method could actually invalidate the certification of some existing fire glazing systems, as under EN testing, the system will experience an initial higher temperature before settling at the intended temperature curve.

As this results in an intense period of heat that was not present during BS testing, systems that currently achieve compliance may not reach the same integrity levels, leading a previously approved system to become uncertified under CPR.

Author: Simon Ellison, Technical Manager for Pyroguard at CGI International

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Can you remember the days when you just used to design a building, think about the client’s needs and aspirations, come up with some decent spaces, and pick some nice materials? Oh, and of course you had to make sure that it would stand up, not leak and so forth. But it was a relatively simple process.

Those days have long gone, and in many cases for good reasons. While issues like disability access and health and safety have had a considerable impact on buildings, the most important, and rightly so, is the issue of sustainability. This feeds in to everything from the regulations that have to be followed to more in-depth concerns about the sourcing of materials. These include both the need for assurances that materials have been sourced sustainably and calculations about the embodied energy of the materials that are used in buildings. This latter becomes increasingly important as the energy that a building consumes in use decreases. It is therefore important to look at the ‘cradle to cradle’ impact of a building – from the first actions taken with the raw materials, all the way through to demolition and possible re-use.

The difficulty, of course, is that there are so many components in a building, and so many variables. As Jim Greaves of Hopkins said at the recent AHEC European Convention, ‘I am talking about systems – looking at the impact of everything put together in a building.’ As an architect, he doesn’t have the time or the skills to look at all the individual components in terms of their environmental impact and work out their impact on the overall building.

The American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC) is investing in a very detailed Life Cycle Assessment, produced by independent and experienced organisation PE International. This will produce detailed information on both timber and veneers, and is being carried out in line with ISO 14040, the international standard on life-cycle assessments. When complete, it will be peer reviewed, and will be an impeccable and authoritative piece of work. But, given that architects are already overloaded with information, is it worth it?

The answer is definitely yes. Architects who want to use wood in buildings need the ammunition that such a document can give them. AHEC’s is the first LCA that deals with hardwoods. Other industries such as steel and concrete

have invested in LCAs, and are using them as ammunition to push their materials. Often such arguments can be easily skewed, since with such a wealth of information, it is all too easy for the unscrupulous to pluck out the arguments that suit them. But without an LCA of its own, timber is certainly in a weakened position. Having not only an LCA but one of the highest standard, is a definite bonus.

Rupert Oliver, of Forest Industries Intelligence, who has helped to provide much of the information about the timber industry that PE International used in order to set the parameters for its LCA, told the AHEC European Convention that preliminary results from the LCA show that the Global Warming Potential

(GWP) of one tonne of 1 inch kiln-dried American white oak lumber delivered into the EU is -1 (minus one) tonne. Put in to simple English, he said, this means that: ‘Due to the carbon stored in the wood, every tonne of U.S. hardwood lumber imported into the EU effectively offsets one tonne of carbon dioxide emissions.’ This is immensely important. While it has often been said that timber is environmentally friendly because it is the only material that, overall, stores carbon rather than generating it, the figures are now there to prove it. These figures take into account all the processing that the timber has gone through, the energy consumed in drying it, and the energy used for transport.

Transport is a greatly misunderstood issue. While it is true that transporting any material consumes energy, not all transport is equal. American hardwoods are typically grown and processed relatively close to navigable water. This means that when used in Europe they may generate little more carbon on their 6000km sea journey than European timber will do if it travels 500km by

road. And in both cases, the transport penalty is outweighed by the energy consumed in kiln drying.

It may be of course, that an architect or a client will want to support a local producer, or use a particular locally grown timber for aesthetic reasons or because of an association. The point is that the LCA allows them to make this decision on an informed basis, not because of an intelligent but wrong guess. Of course it ‘feels’ as if it is environmentally disadvantageous to make your timber travel further. The point about an LCA is that it replaces feelings with hard facts.

www.americanhardwood.org

Getting To Grips With Life Cycle Analysis

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The other reason why an LCA is important is because of the increasing amounts of documentation that are required now, and the even greater quantity that will be needed in the future. These include Environmental Product Declarations, a coding method for showing how ‘green’ your product is, roughly equivalent to the easily understood traffic-light system that is used to give nutritional information on food. These directives (EPDs) already exist, forming, for example, the basis of BREEAM’s guide to green building materials, but at the moment, they are only voluntary. France, however, is looking at making them mandatory on all consumer goods, and we can expect other countries to follow. The information that can be extracted from an LCA can feed into these systems.

But it is all still quite complicated. The point is that the information will be there if you need it. Almost every major project now has a sustainability consultant, and the LCA will provide them with vital information. It is a back-up for architects who love timber and want to use it wherever possible,

and an incentive for those who are still considering whether to engage with the material. There is vital information available to support those who want to use the material. And even if all you want to say is ‘timber is green’ and ‘transport is not the most important consideration’, with the LCA you will know that you have the information behind you to back up your argument if need be.

Author: Ruth Slavid

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Timber Wave – The Structural StoryBy Andrew Lawrence, Arup

The annual London Design Festival creates a platform for designers to explore materials in new ways. For the 2011 festival, Amanda Levete Architects (AL_A) were commissioned by the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC) to design a temporary installation at the entrance to the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A). The idea was to use American red oak to create a giant piece of furniture that would literally bring the museum out onto the street.

The story of the project goes back to 1998, the year in which Michael Hopkins decided to use American white oak for the courtyard roof of Portcullis House. White oak had never been used before structurally in Europe and the project engineers, Arup, decided to undertake a programme of full scale testing. This showed that the white oak was more than twice as strong as the softwoods normally used in construction

and enabled Arup to use just 200mm deep beams for the 20m span. The impressive strength of the white oak inspired AHEC to test the structural potential of three more species – Tulipwood, American ash and American red oak. Of all the species tested, it was actually American red oak that came out the strongest, despite being about 20% less dense than the white oak .

The installation at the V&A needed to be 12m high to match the scale of museum entrance but AL_A was keen to use members which were no bigger than furniture legs. Arup suggested a simple trussed arch as an efficient structural form, combined with the strength of the red oak to keep the structure as lightweight as possible. However, it was the architect’s inspired idea to wrap the arch into a large circular wave, itself composed of smaller wave shaped components that was to be the defining feature of the project.

Curving the elements created significant engineering challenges. In a truss all the members are either in compression or tension; curve the members and those in tension will try and straighten while those in compression will try and fold up. The more curved they are, the larger they will need to be to stop them straightening or folding. By using a piece of parametric design software called Grasshopper, architect and engineer were able to rapidly explore the effect of varying both member size and degree of waviness on the overall appearance and behaviour of the structure.

In the end it was decided to keep a constant 150mm ‘waviness’ and to vary the size of the members (from 60 x 60 to 140 x 80) to respond to the level of applied force. This means that visitors could instantly see which members were working harder adding to the dynamism of the piece; the elements towards ground level are obviously working hardest, particularly the outer chords which

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attract the largest forces as the prevailing wind tries to blow the structure against the museum.

The curved nature of all the members also enabled the design team to explore different ways of forming the wood into curved shapes. It was originally intended to steam bend the members, but at 8% moisture content, the kiln dried lumber was too dry to steam bend; steam bending could also not have achieved the necessary tolerance. Instead, the chords were conventionally laminated in a press but to achieve the 1m radius of curvature, the thickness of the laminates had to be reduced to about 6mm, compared with the 30-40mm typically used for glulam arches.

The advantage of laminating is of course that the strong fibres of the wood follow the line of the member. Each chord was prefabricated in seven lengths; steel rods bonded into the end of each piece enabled them to be joined together on site, with a slight twist to accommodate the geometry as they spiral outwards from the museum. Discreet rods were also bonded into the sides of the most highly stressed elements to prevent the laminates pulling apart under load.

Unlike the laminated chords, the diagonal braces were CNC machined from flat boards. This had the advantage that each of the 500 braces could be slightly different to respond to the varying geometry, but had the disadvantage that the strong straight grain of the red oak ran out of the curved ends of the braces. In effect the ends would simply snap off under load. To overcome this, steel plates were flitched into the strong straight grain towards the middle of the members.

One of the characteristics of working in wood is that it is possible to work out the size of the raw material by examining the finished members. The entire work was fabricated from sawn kiln dried boards about 200mm wide and 25m thick. After planing, the boards measure about 20mm and thus the braces are 60mm thick, being cut from three 20mm boards laminated together. Slicing the boards into three, yields the 6mm laminates used for the chords and it was this in turn which determined the maximum curvature to which the chords could be bent (typically wood can be bent to about 200 times its thickness before it snaps). Finally, sawing the 200mm faces in two more or less determines the maximum 80mm width of the braces.

All the connections use stainless steel. Although the structure was designed to be outside for only a few months, the acidity of the red oak would cause black staining around any mild steel fixings in a matter of days. The structure was not permitted to be fitted

to the foundation and so had to be completely self-supporting. The wood is bolted to a 20mm thick baseplate and thirteen separate one tonne weights are used to stop the plate lifting off the ground under strong winds. The fabrication was undertaken by Cowley Timberwork. The structure was prefabricated in seven pieces in the factory. It was originally planned to use loose hinged or friction grip bolted connections for tolerance.

In practice it was only by using accurately machined members and close tolerance connections that enabled the fabricator to set out the piece in the factory to the correct geometry. Admittedly some additional tolerance would have been helpful on site when it came to connecting the seven large pieces together.

The finished structure demonstrates the unique potential of timber to form complex geometries, because it is so easy to shape, as well as the structural potential of traditional joinery timbers such as American red oak. Only by utilising the tremendous strength of the red oak was it possible to achieve such a lightweight structure.

Client: The London Design Festival (LDF)Supported by: The American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC)Architect: Amanda Levete Architects (AL_A)Structural Engineer and material specialist: ArupContractor: Cowley TimberworkLighting: SEAM DesignPhotographys supplied by Dennis Gilbert

www.americanhardwood.org

Enquiry No. 59

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Timber Expo 2012: Innovative, Tactile And Beautiful WoodThe Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) has signed up as official show partner for Timber Expo 2012 - and discussions are taking place with other key associations and organisations, reflecting the standing this new event has in the construction sector. TRADA, the Timber Research and Development Association, as a founder event partner, will have a significant presence.As Membership & Marketing Manager Rupert Scott stressed, “Timber Expo is an important platform for TRADA, its members and indeed for the timber industry as a whole to deliver key messages to specifiers.” The TRADA stand, designed by Ramboll Computational Design, will encapsulate all that is exciting and innovative about timber. It will be cleverly but economically created; above all, it will be as tactile and beautiful as the inspiration for it, a sculpture that spreads like a tree in Ramboll’s London head office. Among the other associations which have signed up as official show partners are the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF), the UK SIP Association (UKSIPS) and the UK Timber Frame Association (UKTFA).And there will be so much more to see. Timber Expo 2012 is selling quickly, with more than 60% of the 6,000m2 already taken.Among the numerous sponsors returning this year are International Timber/Pasquill Timber Engineering as Platinum sponsors and James Latham, now Gold, alongside Accsys, Arch Timber Protection and Frame Wise. Many new companies are joining the exhibitor list this year, including British Gypsum, Wallbarn, Balcas, English Woodlands Timber, Dragon Board, A&J Scott, Easi-Edge and Edward O'Riordan. The two-day programme of seminars and tutorials in three theatres attracted hundreds of delegates in 2011 and the range and quality of the talks were rated highly by visitors. This aspect of the show will be carried forward to 2012, with high calibre speakers analysing issues and trends and sharing technical information. The design of the theatres themselves, still under wraps, will be as much a talking point as the presentations. And to be certain that Timber Expo is offering topics which meet visitor needs and expectations, TRADA has carried out detailed research into what delegates want to hear about.At the top of the list, there is unanimous demand for information on timber frame construction – more than 80% of all respondents and a massive 93% of specifiers want to learn more. The overwhelming interest is in structural aspects of timber frame, with energy efficiency and acoustic performance following close behind. And it will be no surprise to learn that timber frame and fire attracted particular attention. This significant and sometimes controversial area will be the subject of several presentations across the two days of the show. Timber Expo 2012 takes place at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry on 25th & 26th September. www.timber-expo.co.uk

Enquiry No. 60

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Hingham Primary School Are Proud Owners Of Their Honka Log Building From Logwise

Logwise Ltd, the official agents for Honkarakenne Oyj (Honka) in the UK have recently supplied a bespoke log building for Hingham Primary School in Norfolk.Timberville Ltd, who are the Logwise agents in East Anglia, were originally approached by a local village school in Cromer that wanted to replace their tired old mobile unit with a new log cabin to be used as a pre-school building. Logwise were provided with a concept plan for the building which was altered and amended by their Honka trained designer. The new design proved so popular that Norfolk County Council Education Department enquired about 5 such buildings.Hingham Primary School in the south of Norfolk are now the proud

owners of their Honka log building for the playgroup. The building itself has been constructed from one of Honka's laminated logs at 112mm wide. There is an additional insulation wall structure with Warmcel recycled newspaper insulation which helps to ensure the building is as sustainable as possible. Construction was carried out by one of the Finnish teams that Logwise operate around the country, under the supervision of the main contractors T Gill & Sons from Norwich. Speed of build was one of the deciding factors for Norfolk Property Services in choosing Logwise to supply the building, and with the log kit being erected in less than a week, their decision was justified. www.logwise.co.uk

Enquiry No. 62

Arch Timber Protection’s KEYWOOD Treated Pine Specified for Decking Around Swimming Pond for Zero Carbon House

Arch Timber Protection’s KEYWOOD treated pine has been chosen by landscape designer Alistair W Baldwin to be part of a site landscaping project on the grounds of a zero carbon house near Harrogate, North Yorkshire. The project uses the durable timber in decking around a swimming pond installed by Garden Style of Sheffield.KEYWOOD is a modified softwood created by treating FSC-certified Radiata pine with a biomass-based thermosetting resin. This makes the timber more durable and usable indoors and outdoors without the need for a coating, and its attractive light color blends with all surroundings.Product Manager Denis Boissau said: “The homeowner worked hard to create a zero carbon house, and we were able to support this sustainable focus by providing the KEYWOOD treatment, which involves a biomass-derived resin that does not require further chemical treatments for outdoor use, even near water.”Designer Alistair W Baldwin said: “The KEYWOOD product is based on pine, so it is easy to work with, but it has the look of a more exotic hardwood. As a designer, I am very attracted to its pale coloring when dry and its rich warm tones when wet. The flexibility to specify the boards at the width we needed was also a plus, as we were running the boards up to stone slabs to create a staggered junction. The site is in the open countryside, so it was important that the deck took on an attractive weathered look from day one, and the KEYWOOD treatment was perfect for that.” www.archtp.com

Enquiry No. 61

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Southern Yellow Pine For Timber Decking DesignUK specialists in timber decking design, supply and installation recommend and only use one timber - pressure treated Southern Yellow Pine. Harvested from the managed forests of the U.S., Southern Yellow Pine is a renewable and sustainable source and the preferred species for designers and specifiers in the UK and worldwide for its high strength, density and treatability. Southern Yellow Pine is ideal for many construction applications, especially exterior use, where its knot free grain and shock resistant properties make it ideal. Colin Young of Deckor Timber in Harrogate, specialists in timber decking design and supplying southern pine across the UK for over 17 years, said "The combination of Deckor Timber's experience and southern pine make a partnership unsurpassable for all timber decking design and garden features throughout the UK."

Even when the energy expended during the harvesting and transport process is factored in, the carbon sequestration during each tree’s growth more than offsets the total combined emissions from harvesting, processing and transporting timber to the EU from the US. American softwoods also offer a sustainable, fast growing and, when pressure treated, durable alternative to much more expensive tropical hardwoods, which can take three times as long to mature.

Well-designed timber decking in Southern Yellow Pine creates much more than outdoor living space. Chris Lowe from The Manchester Deck Co. Ltd. said, "Raised access points out of the house and into the garden are common, and can restrict the ease of enjoying outside space. The solution of a raised deck can extend the living space of a home into the outdoors and provide a cohesive link with the rest of the garden. Balustrade and steps can be designed to suit each project and lighting incorporated as desired. A low level patio deck, either directly outside the house or in another remote part of the garden is another

common choice. Slightly raised access points can be accommodated and tired, uneven or soggy surfaces covered over, but the flexibility of Southern Yellow Pine always allows for interesting and innovative design and detailing."

Landscape designer and Southern Yellow Pine advocate Peter Killen has been designing and installing decks in the UK since 1987, however he warns of the pitfalls that exist from lack of understanding and sub-standard materials; "Clients expect contractors to know and use the right timber for their project, but both can easily be misled by non-specific 'treated timber', which can only last a few short years and be totally false economy."

Peter has tried several different types of timbers in his career, but always comes back to Southern Yellow Pine. "Any timber which needs to be re-treated after being cut is not suitable for outside use", continues Peter Killen. "This is because nobody is going to re-treat things like screw holes where the water will penetrate and start the rot. Ordinary tanalised timber is not normally good enough and may rot and become dangerous in less than 5 years." Southern Yellow Pine works structurally due to its capacity to take in the preservative treatments right through to the core of the timber.

Charles Trevor, American Softwoods UK director, said, “American softwoods, including Southern Yellow Pine, are sustainably produced and readily available, and we are providing the technical support needed and demanded to truly get the best out of the timber. We are working to bring their benefits, beauty and impressive performance to a wider audience.” www.americansoftwoods.com

Enquiry No. 63

Pre-school outdoor theatre area in Southern Yellow Pine, Killen Landscapes

Above and right, courtesy Deckor Timber

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Accoya® Wood & Project Overviews

Accoya® wood is the result of over 80 years of research and development, combining the modification technique of acetylation with Accsys Technologies’ cutting-edge proprietary technology. This high performance wood is the perfect fit for any demanding outdoor application such as cladding, decking, external joinery and major structures.

Accsys Technologies Plc, the manufacturer, is committed to producing a high quality, durable, stable and sustainable modified wood product. Accoya® is Cradle to Cradle Gold level certified and has received numerous other certifications and awards for its outstanding environmental credentials, It is manufactured through a non-toxic process and uses sustainable timber from FSC and other certified sources. By using sustainably grown wood, and improving its properties without adding toxins, Accoya® helps to protect threatened species, rainforests and the environment. The process gives wood unparalleled durability and dimensional stability, along with many other benefits, while retaining its strength and natural beauty. Low maintenance costs, including major coatings life improvements, are a major benefit of these properties. This means that Accoya® offers a wealth of new opportunities to architects, designers and specifiers around the world.

Accoya® wood has been used in many types of projects worldwide as word gets around about its credentials. Creativity in its use and extremes of climates in which Accoya has proven itself just keep growing. With Accoya being such a durable and stable material (guaranteed against rot and excessive movement for 50 years in above ground exterior use and 25 years when used in the ground) it has proven a popular choice for architects working on cutting-edge, large scale outdoor projects.

In 2011, Fort de Roovere, part of the 17th century historical West Brabant defensive water line in the south of Holland, was fully restored. Part of the project was to create an access bridge in harmony with the setting. Using

Accoya wood; the unique design is almost invisible as it sits immersed within the water and adjoining earth works. Most woods could not tolerate these rot and distortion-inducing conditions long term. The project was awarded the prestigious BNA (Union of Dutch Architects) Building of the Year for 2011 and has become a tourist attraction in its own right. Due to the success of the bridge, the architects, RO&AD, are now looking to specify Accoya for other uses in the same area.

More recently, Accoya® has been used in a sensational new art installation that is lighting up Istanbul, Turkey. OVO, Latin for egg, is an interactive artwork which offers visitors a multi-sensory experience with lighting animations, visuals and acoustic accompaniment. The egg shaped concept was recently unveiled at the Marmara Forum, a shopping and garden office centre. The structure is actually made of 356 pieces of Accoya ® wood pieces bolted together to make an eye catching structure with almost invisible seams. Dimensional stability, coating life and long term durability were key criteria in the selection of Accoya wood by artist and sculpture team Odeaubois. Accoya’s environmental credentials were also critical to their selection, in concert with the overall sustainability of the project. www.accsysplc.com

Enquiry No. 64

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Arch Goes Back To School

Arch Timber Protection is back at school, this time protecting the children and staff at the new-build Highfields and Penn Fields School, in Penn in Wolverhampton. The timber cladding on the outside of the school has been treated with NON-COM Exterior fire retardant, which defends the new campus against fire without affecting the look and strength of the wood.The cladding uses 80m3 of Siberian larch, and has been chosen by the architect to be a feature of the new project. NON-COM Exterior uses an approved leach-resistant, polymer-based formulation and is applied by vacuum-pressure impregnation, ensuring a long term built-in fire protection.The battens supporting the cladding were also NON-COM Exterior treated to provide a complete fire retardant protection.Whitmore's Timber sales director Ian Thomson said: “The Siberian larch on the building looks great and will be long-lasting. The architect for the project recommended that we use NON-COM Exterior to protect the timber used in this large-scale project.”The site, which combines Highfields Science Specialist School and Penn Fields Special School, is due to open in September 2012. The two schools are housed in separate wings but share communal sports facilities, and the campus also includes a community cafe.www.archtp.com

Enquiry No. 66

The North Lincolnshire Sports Academy in Scunthorpe, named the ‘PODS’, is a distinctive and unique building, based around a series of linked Geodesic timber framed pods, incorporating a 25m swimming Pool, Learner Pool, Sports Hall, Dance Studio and fitness area. SkyLight Solutions Limited designed, manufactured, and installed the bespoke skylights and geodesic glazing to the entrance dome. Eighteen triangular based pyramidal skylights were installed onto cedar shingle and natural sedum roofs, with every skylight being a different size and classified as non-fragile. A feature ‘Boomerang’ shaped Skylight was installed in the centre of the building. The ‘Wow’ factor of the building is the Geodesic glazing to the entrance dome, which houses the reception and café. www.skylightsolutions.co.uk

Enquiry No. 65

Skylight Solutions Lets Lights Into Award Winning Sports Centre

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Steadmans Provides Roof And Wall Cladding For Centra Service Station Building products manufacturer Steadmans has supplied roof and wall cladding systems for a new Centra petrol and service station near Banbridge, County Down.

Steadmans provided 490 sq m of 80mm thick AS35 composite insulated panels for the roof and 95 sq m of 0.7mm gauge AS30 single skin panels for the walls of the development on the A1 between Banbridge and Dromore. All the panels were finished in goosewing grey plastisol coatings.

The company’s AS35 composite cladding panels comprise coated steel profiles bonded to a PIR insulation core. With a life expectancy of up to 40 years, Steadmans insulated panels are available in a wide range of colours and finishes and can be specified in thicknesses to aid compliance with the latest L2 regulations. The panels are also Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) approved and can be used on roof pitches down to 4 degrees.

Steadmans single skin roof and wall systems are available in a choice of five profiles with a range of colours and finishes and both systems are supported by a full range of matching ancillaries including gutters, flashings, rooflights and fixings.

The company’s cladding systems offer rapid coverage and swift completion of weatherproof building envelopes, and are suitable for a wide variety of building applications, including commercial, industrial, leisure and retail structures. www.steadmans.co.uk

Enquiry No. 67

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Change Of Use Breathes New Life Into Disused Office BuildingsCities have to constantly change and adapt to survive and no more so than the commercial centres where many fine buildings from past ages have become redundant. Fortunately, architects and property owners with vision are capitalising on this, increasingly finding new and innovative ways to keep our building heritage in active service. Many are converted to residential use, restaurants, clubs, galleries and of course Hotels, thereby maintaining the vibrancy that a city needs.

A consequence of a vibrant neighbourhood is noise and Selectaglaze, the UK’s leading specialist in secondary glazing systems has recently been involved with two Central London boutique hotel developments, The Zetter Hotel in Clerkenwell and Hotel Indigo in the Minories.

Originally a warehouse and once the home of the football pools company of the same name, the five-storey 59-room boutique Zetter Hotel opened to critical acclaim, being voted one of the world’s ‘50 coolest hotels’ by industry bible Conde Nast Traveller – and its restaurant has recently been voted the third best in the UK. The owners of the Zetter Hotel strongly believe that the health and happiness of future generations is dependent on a commitment to sustainable ways of living and working. They aim to reduce energy consumption and become carbon neutral and to work with suppliers that share their sustainability commitment.

To this end the Hotel collects fresh water via its own borehole beneath the building; has installed an energy loop system capable of swapping energy around to heat rooms and cool fridges and natural light and ventilation is provided by The Zetter’s cleverly designed central semi-elliptical atrium. The hotel had retained the building’s original sash windows and installed bi-

folding shutters to the room side of the bedrooms but this combination did not provide the required level of noise insulation. To remedy this, Selectaglaze provided sliding secondary units fitted flush to the window openings, thus allowing easy access to the shutters and external windows. This has not only produced exceptionally quiet rooms but will help considerably in reducing energy consumption.

Hotel Indigo located in The Minories, on the edge of the Square Mile within the capital’s main financial district, is a four star hotel, part of the word-wide InterContinental Hotels Group. The Indigo brand launched in America in 2004 and arrived in the UK four years later. The new hotel in The Minories is the latest in what is now a 38 strong world-wide chain. Each Hotel Indigo is unique and designed to reflect the local culture, character and geography of the surrounding area.

Occupying what was formerly an office building and bank, conversion to a top class boutique hotel and restaurant was a major architectural and interior design undertaking. As part of the conversion it was decided to replace the windows with double glazed frames but standard double glazing does not provide the levels of sound insulation needed by the guests. The solution was to install secondary glazing, thus creating triple-glazing which offered noise insulation in excess of 45dB and further improved the energy performance of the window, reducing heating costs and improving sustainability.

The secondary windows were made bespoke to ensure the best fit and included horizontal sliding, vertical sliding and hinged casements all finished in a grey powder paint to blend with the new external windows.

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Selectaglaze’s secondary windows are designed to maintain the character of the property and are accepted by all Heritage bodies. Frames have a permanent, easily maintained finish usually white but a wide choice of colour options together with a selection of timber-grained finishes are available to suit almost any décor. The ability to shape and curve frames and discrete installation ensures sympathetic treatment.

Refurbishments are often fast track projects requiring close cooperation between client, contractor, specialists and the professional team. Selectaglaze has wide experience of working in buildings up to Grade 1 listed and offers a technical advisory service and specification advice to ensure correct interface with other trades. Programmes are particularly important and proactive site surveys linked to a modern production facility working on Lean principles ensures that projects are delivered on time and installation undertaken with minimal disruption, which is particularly important when working within Hotels.

Founded in 1966, Royal Warrant holder Selectaglaze has gained a reputation as one of the country’s leading secondary glazing specialists and, as such, has led the way with innovative and informative literature – including the company’s new Product Guide and Energy Conservation Guidance Notes. Selectaglaze’s literature is free upon request. www.selectaglaze.co.uk

Enquiry No. 68

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Tolent Completes Residential Contract In Leeds

Leeds-based Tolent Construction have completed a £1.15 million contract to build a development of luxury homes at Harrogate Road, Leeds.Working with Harrogate-based PCP Architects on behalf of client GT Forty Properties Ltd, Tolent constructed ten new-build one- and two-bedroomed apartments and refurbished an existing coach house to create a contemporary two-bedroomed property. Dean Hill of PCP Architects commented on Tolent’s contribution:“Tolent’s standard of construction at Harrogate Road has been very high, especially the brickwork and stonework. They completed the project on-time, within budget and we are pleased with the results. 'Following on from this development PCP Architects are now working with Tolent’s Teesside office on the development of a new industrial distribution centre.'Tolent operations director, Doug Shield, said: “In recent years Tolent have maintained a strong presence in the residential sector with Harrogate Road the latest successful project. Tolent have also recently commenced a £12.77 million contract to build a major development of residential student accommodation at Eastern Boulevard in Leicester. Our portfolio in the last 12 months has been as diverse as ever with high profile developments in leisure, retail, energy, civil engineering and regeneration.”www.tolent.co.uk

Enquiry No. 71

Permo Forte For Countryfile Eco-House Feature

The sustainability credentials of Klober’s vapour permeable roofing underlay Permo Forte once again came to the fore when the product featured in the construction of a National Trust eco-house on BBC1’s Countryfile. Built under the stewardship of woodsman Ben Law, (whose own oak house featured on Grand Designs), Swan House Farm near Hindhead in Surrey is set within 100 acres of ancient woodland. It is of traditional timber construction and will provide accommodation for three long-term Trust volunteers. Locally coppiced sweet chestnut was used extensively, even to provide hand cut roof shingles.www.klober.co.uk

Enquiry No. 69

Alu-Timber Rules The Roost at Campus

Alu-Timber, with their approved fabricator K2 Aluminium Systems, worked on the second phase of the Glynllifon campus development. This new build teaching block was designed to meet BREEAM excellent standards. The project is sited adjacent to a special conservation area which is home to one of Europe’s largest roosts for Lesser Horseshoe Bats. The innovative Learning Village will enable a number of education and training providers to work together to offer more vocational courses, ensuring the very best for learners, business and also the local economy.www.alutimber.co.uk

Enquiry No. 70

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Kidde At The Lancasters

Kidde Fyrnetics Slick® smoke and heat alarms provide discreet fire safety measures integrated with interior design for a major development of luxury apartments overlooking London’s Hyde Park.The Lancasters was originally an elegant parade of magnificent stucco-fronted houses built in the mid 19th Century. The interior fabric was so badly damaged by the building’s 1970's conversion to a hotel that the internal structure was completely renewed. At the same time, the listed frontage of one of the longest and tallest Victorian residential terraces was retained and restored. Smoke and heat alarms were selected to minimise impact on the carefully designed interiors and to match developer Northacre’s aim of

providing a unique fusion of traditional architecture with brand new design and cutting edge technology. With a matching family appearance, Slick® interconnectable, optical and ionisation smoke alarms and heat alarms are circular in shape to avoid alignment problems. Integral rechargeable lithium batteries provide 6 months continuous backup in the event of mains failure. For major developers, third party certification is essential, particularly in such a critical area as fire safety, and Slick® is still the only range of fast-fit rechargeable smoke and heat alarms guaranteed for 10 years. And all Slick® alarms are BSi Kitemarked to reinforce the consistent quality provided by the world’s largest manufacturer. A Slick relay pattress accessory is available to operate remote devices and Building Management Systems. www.smoke-alarms.co.uk

Enquiry No. 74

TORMAX Automatic Doors Installed At New Midland Heart Foundation Residential Development

Offering DDA compliant access for staff, residents and visitors to Willowfields, a £7m Midland Heart development, TORMAX has installed a double set of bi-parting automatic sliding doors to the main entrance. TORMAX recommended using four of their Win Drive 2201 door operators to ensure reliable and energy efficient operation for many years to come.

Ensuring easy access for residents whilst helping retain heat in the reception area, a lobby has been created between two sets of TORMAX automatic sliding doors. A simple keypad allows staff to quickly programme the doors to allow opening and closing speed and width to match foot traffic requirements

and weather conditions. The Win Drive 2201 emergency opening system reacts instantly to any obstruction detected when sliding closed, whilst the electromechanical bolt offers a solid and secure locking mechanism, effectively reducing the risk of break-ins. www.tormax.co.uk

Enquiry No. 72

Hunter Douglas Answers Call From Flagship £55M Development

The striking Quadroclad façade system from Hunter Douglas has been used on the Providence Place development in West Bromwich, providing state-of-the-art offices for BT. In a UK first, Quadroclad was fitted to the face of curtain walling and Hunter Douglas provided award-winning architect Glenn Howells with longer panels than most competitors are unable to supply. QuadroClad is a unique, open-jointed cladding system based on rainscreen technology. Integrated channels provide ventilation that enables rain and condensation to drain behind the cladding surface, ensuring a much cleaner façade with lower maintenance costs. Materials, such as stainless steel and anodized aluminium, and different finishes create endless design combinations, for Providence Place the façade is finished in metallic silver. www.hunterdouglascontract.com

Enquiry No. 73

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Sika-Trocal Integral To State-Of-The-Art Blackwall Tunnel Ventilation SystemThe four futuristic ventilation shafts on London’s Blackwall Tunnel would not be out of place on the set of the upcoming James Bond film. Forming part of Transport for London (TfL)’s three-year refurbishment of this vital link across the Thames, Sika-Trocal single ply membrane was specified for its versatility

and long term waterproofing performance in the much needed upgrade of the 114 year old tunnel and its unusual ‘flying saucer’ ventilation domes.

Faced with the challenges of designing and installing a waterproofing system for a domed roof that features opening mechanical petals,

Architects Acanthus LW worked with specialist contractor Robertson Roofing, to come up with an innovative solution for this unusual single ply membrane application.

Main contractor BAM Nuttall was awarded the contract from TfL for the refurbishment of the northbound carriageway which involved a complete

upgrade of the tunnel’s emergency walkways and systems. As part of the project, new ventilation equipment is being installed, fire and life safety systems upgraded and a state-of-the-art communications systems incorporated, including high quality lighting, CCTV surveillance, radio-interrupt systems and variable message signs to convey quick appropriate information to tunnel users.

Appearing at ground level as raised concrete domes, a distinctive feature of the ventilation domes are the curved ‘petal’ sections which presented their own challenges for Robertson’s installation team. The area build-up to the domes comprised a plywood deck shaped to form a dome profile over the lower perimeter area and the eight individual vent petals. Onto the plywood, the team installed a layer of Sika-Trocal S-felt type A protection fleece which was mechanically fixed using Sika-Trocal laminated metal discs. This was followed by a layer of Sika-Trocal Type S 1.5mm thick light grey membrane bonded to the Sika-Trocal laminated metal discs.

The Sika-Trocal type S membrane was installed in a manner to ensure the layout of flaps gave the best aesthetic appearance to the finished roof. The domed roof shape also required Sika-Trocal laminated metal detailing to follow the curved line of perimeter gutters and vent segments. In addition the installation team were required to create and install a Sika-Trocal secret gutter around the base of the vent petals and a curved perimeter gutter to

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follow the profile of the existing curved concrete parapet at the base of the new plywood dome. The team worked through a learning curve on the first shaft with regard to finding the best method of installation to the area and difficult detailing, and were then able to complete the Sika-Trocal works to the other three shafts in a seven day programme per shaft.

Offering exceptional weather proofing and durability, the Sika-Trocal type S membrane was ideally suited to the curved dome shape of the ventilation shafts. Used in Great Britain since 1972, Sika-Trocal Type S family of membranes have been recognised for proven longevity with British Board of Agrément (BBA) Certification. As a result, the BBA has given all the Sika-Trocal Type S membranes a stated life expectancy ‘in excess of 30 years’.

At 1364 metres long, the Blackwall Tunnel carries one of London's busiest commuter roads, the A102, under the River Thames between the boroughs of Greenwich in the south and Tower Hamlets in the north. The installation of the Sika-Trocal Type S system has ensured the longevity of the tunnel’s ventilation system for many years to come. www.sika.co.uk/roofing

Enquiry No. 75

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Faceted Curtain Walling And More Than 400 Aluminium Windows From Technal For New World Class College In Hartlepool

The new £53m Hartlepool College of Further Education features extensive use of architectural aluminium façade systems from Technal.

Designed by Bond Bryan Architects and built by Miller Construction, the new state-of-the-art campus brings world class education and training facilities together in an iconic building and is set to make a significant impact on the town of Hartlepool, on both its economy and the local community.

The 19,000sqm scheme consists of two blocks linked by a continuous curved atrium space. The central core accommodates shared social facilities and the Learning Core, with classrooms, offices, conferencing suite, restaurant, fitness centre and salons in the north wing and large-scale skills academy spaces in the east wing.

Technal’s MX Visible Grid faceted curtain walling provides floor-to-ceiling glazing for the two-storey main entrance elevation and to the rear façade which spans four storeys and encloses the food court and Learning Core. The MX system was also used for the single storey curtain walling to the workshop areas, a full height glazed entrance lobby and three stair towers.

The curtain walling is complemented by Technal’s FXi65 high performance aluminium windows. More than 400 units were used as composite systems comprising top hung open-out windows and fixed lights, finished in dark grey and set into contrasting white render.

The doors were also supplied by Technal – the CD system was specified in both an automatic sliding configuration for the main entrances and as hinged doors for the fire exits.

Commenting on the project, Jeff Hedley, Project Manager at Miller Construction, said, “We were pleased with how the curtain walling came together on site. Both the windows and the curtain walling were easy to install and look very good – and the faceted glazed façade set into black zinc panelling is particularly dramatic. Technal performed very well.”

Adam Jones, Associate at Bond Bryan Architects, added, “Natural light was very important on this project. The Technal window system allowed us to achieve a linear effect of continuous glazing. The MX curtain walling system has provided us with a good facet to give the appearance of a curved façade for the front and rear elevations.”

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Technal’s FXi window suite uses a technically advanced framing system with unobtrusive narrow sight lines. It is available in three module sizes – 46mm, 52mm and 65mm, giving architects and contractors the flexibility to deliver enhanced thermal efficiency and to meet project-specific requirements such as aesthetics, performance, and cost.

MX curtain walling is fully compatible with the FXi window suite, and can be used to create a wide variety of architectural compositions from a single grid system – low to high rise façades, horizontal or vertical emphasis, and ribbon, structural, faceted, beaded and sloped glazing. MX Acoustic for additional noise protection and MX62 for larger glass sizes are the latest additions to the extensive range of MX curtain walling options.www.technal.co.uk

Enquiry No. 76

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Dorma Delivers Stylish Entrance At Grand Union Village Health Centre

To create a welcoming first impression at Grand Union Village Health Centre in Ealing, a combination of automatic swing doors and a sliding door were required. Performance and durability were of utmost

importance, as was aesthetics. For these reasons, two automatic operators from DORMA were specified. Pro-care Maintenance Service specified two ED 200 swing door operators and an ES 200 sliding automatic operator from DORMA. The deep plan building’s design incorporates natural lighting through generous quantities and sizes of windows, as well as two large light wells that help to create a vibrant and easily navigable interior. To complement the naturally-lit, bright internal environment, the use of glass doors with minimal fixings proved ideal. For this, both the ED 200

and ES 200 met the demands perfectly. www.dorma-show.com

Enquiry No. 81

State-Of-The-Art Bridgend School Gets Carea Cladding System

As part of the Archbishop McGrath Catholic High School’s £20m relocation to Brackla, in the heart of Bridgend, a new state-of-the-art school facility has been created. Artema cladding from leading producer of facade systems, Carea, was specified. The external facade was also crucial to achieving the required BREEAM rating. With this in mind Carea was chosen to create an envelope that – comprising of 95% natural minerals – also offers superb thermal insulation, protecting the building against changes in temperature and eliminating thermal bridging. Requiring minimal maintenance, the Artema panels are designed and manufactured to be non-porous. As such, this ensures that they provide an economical solution and long-term resistance to graffiti, weather conditions and climate. www.carea.uk.com

Enquiry No. 77

Making A Colourful Exterior

The new Phoenix Restaurant at the National University of Ireland campus in Maynooth, Co. Kildare, is clad with hundreds of metres of grey MEG exterior grade high pressure laminate from ABET LAMINATI. Abet’s MEG range is a self-supporting high pressure laminate for cladding the exterior of buildings, balconies and other applications. In addition to 23 traditional plain colours, Wood finishes and simulated-concrete colours, MEG Metal is also available in a choice of five colours. MEG is also now able to incorporate Abet’s digital printing technology. This means that almost any design, photograph or pattern can be reproduced in stunning details. MEG is a solid grade, load-bearing, high pressure laminate which carries a BBA Agrément Certificate. www.abetuk.com

Enquiry No. 79

Rainline Specified For Isle Of Man Social Housing Refurbishment Project

Ramsey, on the Isle of Man, is run by the local authority - the Ramsey Town Commissioners. With a substantial housing stock to maintain, this forward thinking council wanted sustainability to be a key feature for the building products to be used for their planned refurbishment programme. The first phase of the project involved re-roofing and re-rendering 18 homes and installing new windows, fascias and soffits. For all the guttering and downpipes, Lindab’s Rainline was specified in Aluzinc, supplied by approved Lindab distributor Celumet. Following the success of this project, Ramsey Town Commissioners concluded that for the next stage of their refurbishment programme involving 118 homes, Rainline would again be their preferred product of choice for rainwater control. To ensure Dalrymple Associates specification could be met, Lindab and Celumet worked closely together to provide detailed rainfall and drainage calculations, gutter and downpipe capacities and installation training for contractor Manx Glass & Glazing. www.lindab.co.uk

Enquiry No. 80

A ‘Giant’ Undertaking For STYROFOAM

Work is well underway on the construction of a new visitors’ centre at the world-famous Giant’s Causeway – and 2,200m2 of 200mm thick STYROFOAM material ROOFMATE SL-A is playing a crucial role. The material – manufactured by Dow Building Solutions – has been installed on the flat roof of the heneghan.peng.architects-designed building, not only to provide insulation but to support a wildflower meadow being planted as a vast, green roof. The enhanced ‘A-foam’ insulation is blown with CO2, giving it a Global Warning Potential (GWP) of less than five. The insulation protects waterproof coverings from penetration of roots, UV damage and mechanical damage during construction, use and maintenance and also offers support for the weight of soil necessary for the planted layer. www.styrofoam.co.uk

Enquiry No. 78

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RAK Ceramics Specified For UK’s Biggest Cladding Installation

RAK Ceramics’ porcelain slabs have been specified for the UK’s biggest large-format ceramic cladding installation. Designed by Domus Facades, and installed by Cladding UK for main contractor Higgins Construction PLC, the 7,654 sq metre installation forms the exterior of Streamlight Tower, in London’s docklands. A residential scheme, for Swan New Homes, the development was designed by Barrett Lloyd Davis Associates Ltd & Hunters Architects. Acclaimed by the Mayor’s office for its significant contribution to the provision of affordable housing, Streamlight comprises 137 homes and features a three-block design. The tallest of the three towers has a distinct lipstick-shaped crown. It reaches 82 metres in height, affording stunning views over to the Olympic Stadium, the Thames and Canary Wharf. The sustainable design includes exterior monochromatic cladding, using RAK’s large format Lounge porcelain slabs, on all aspects. Chosen to provide a highly durable and distinctive background, alongside accents of smoked glass throughout balconies, the cladding includes a mix of black, beige and grey slabs. All tiles have a mottled, unpolished surface and each measures 1795mm x 1195mm.www.rakceramics.co.uk

Enquiry No. 83

The Teesport Container Terminals are a purpose built, multi million pound facilities owned and operated by PD Ports. Completed in Autumn 2011, Teesport Container Terminal 2 – expansion phase 1, increases capacity to 450,000 TEU (Twenty Foot Equivalent Unit), from its current 235,000 TEU - an investment of more than £15million.As the Terminal’s concreted area is over six hectares, effective surface water drainage was a major consideration to ensure efficient all-weather operation. Designed to resist the rigours of site work,

two sizes of Hauraton channel were installed. 44 metres of RECYFIX® HICAP® 200 and 840 metres of HICAP® 680 installed in two runs. To further reduce installation times, end-of-run caps and pipe connection sockets were also supplied with other connection points moulded into the sides and bottom of each channel. Factory fitted with 14mm slotted ductile iron inlets, the channels comply with a loading class of F900 so can easily take the weight of a lifting truck with a fully laden container. Importantly, once installed the complete system is highly resilient to the twisting forces imposed by the wheeled vehicles employed. The RECYFIX® HICAP® 200 one metre channels used each have a water capacity of 79.0 litres

whilst the HICAP® 680 units have a massive 443 litre capacity. The whole channel system installed at Teesport Container Terminal 2 is able to accept a volume of water of 375,596 litres. A RECYFIX® HICAP® Gully and Access point, also made from 100% recycled PE-PP, were installed at each end of the HICAP® 200 run which were laid in a curve along the service road. Large concrete rings were used as gullies and access points for the HICAP® 680 units. Case Study available on www.hauraton.co.uk

Enquiry No. 82

Hauraton Drainage At Teesport Container Terminal 2

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New School Building Heralds Arrival Of Academy Status For Wymondham High

A dedicated sixth form centre is now in use at Wymondham High – a new academy in Norfolk. The scheme has been constructed using a highly sustainable recycled modular building from Foremans Relocatable Building Systems. It was completed ahead of schedule, reducing the programme from receipt of order to less than three months.

Designed by architects NPS South East, the project marks the start of a significant new phase in the history of the school. In line with Government policy to increase the number of academies across the UK, Wymondham High now has Academy status.

The additional teaching accommodation was needed as the school caters for over 1,600 pupils, with 400 in the sixth form from the start of the 2011/12 academic year and plans are in place to increase pupil numbers to 2,000.

The purpose-designed facility was craned into position in just one day during the school holidays to minimise disruption to staff and students. The single-storey building accommodates five seminar rooms for students studying social sciences, and sixth form facilities, including a break-out area, toilets and administration office. The main contractor was Farrans (Construction) Ltd.

Commenting on the new building, Victoria Musgrave, Principal at Wymondham High Academy said “This project has definitely exceeded our expectations and both staff and students are genuinely thrilled with it. They like the ambience it has created, the flexibility of the space, and the fact that we now have a dedicated facility for our sixth form.”

“The Foremans team was very helpful, personable and efficient throughout and the modular solution has given us the very best scheme for our available

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budget. It was also sufficiently flexible to meet our project-specific requirements and has provided us with a high quality teaching environment, which symbolises the start of a new era for the school.”

Louise Robinson, Project Architect at NPS South East, said, “This scheme has changed our perception of modular building. It feels robust and secure and has good sound quality – you would never know it is a modular structure. We are impressed with the finish, particularly externally, and the cladding is crisp and well executed.”

She added, “Foremans’ performance was excellent at every stage. The building was installed in just one day and the modular approach gave us the benefit of a critical saving on time. The project had to be delivered in just three months before the start of the new academic year, which was a major challenge. I am pleased to report the school was actually able to move in several days earlier than planned – a significant achievement for the design and construction team.”

A collaborative approach was taken to the design of the new building. The most appropriate aesthetic solution for the exterior was discussed at workshops with sixth form design students. Students were keen to use timber from a sustainable source and to introduce colour into the project. The architects worked with Foremans to develop a cladding solution using natural larch with vertical ‘windows’ cut out to reveal the modular steel structure finished in three colours – jade, heritage green and wedgewood blue.

Wymondham High is a mixed academy specialising in the arts and sciences. Its sixth form has been recognised as ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted and it has been listed as one of the best performing schools in East Anglia. All Foremans’ recycled modular buildings are fully refurbished with new windows, wall linings, partitions, mechanical and electrical services, doors, flooring, and cladding, to create high quality accommodation for a wide variety of education applications.

The advantages of recycled and refurbished modular buildings for schools, colleges and sixth form centres include:• Abespokedesigntomeetspecificprojectandsiterequirements• Programmetimesreducedbyupto70percent• Ahighlycost-effectivealternativetonewbuild • Thebuildingscaneasilybeexpanded,reconfiguredorremovedifteaching

requirements change• Off-site working is maximised for safer, quieter and cleaner sites and

reduced disruption to teaching• Highqualitysteel-framedmodularbuildingsarebuilttolastandrequire

fewer ground works than traditional site-based construction – further reducing cost, disruption and programme times.

www.foremansbuildings.info

Enquiry No. 84

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Airport Access Gets Upgrade

Travellers to Birmingham Airport now benefit from a new, state of the art terminal which is easily accessed from the main concourse through a double set of iMotion® bi-parting sliding doors installed and maintained by TORMAX UK Ltd. TORMAX was specified for access at One Terminal through H&H Architectural Systems. With this entrance scheduled to experience extremely high levels of daily foot traffic, TORMAX recommended their iMotion® 2401 operator. iMotion® represents low energy, sustainable automation without any compromise on functionality or reliability. The 2401 operator incorporates a high torque synchronous motor that has no abrading parts, ensuring optimum performance and near-indefinite life-expectancy. The automatic entrance at Birmingham Airport further contributes to lowering carbon footprint by reducing heating bills in the terminal. The two sets of automatic sliding doors work smoothly and silently in conjunction to effectively create an entrance lobby area which minimises heat loss from the building without slowing pedestrians or creating a bottleneck. www.tormax.co.uk

Enquiry No. 87

Floor Levelling At Cumberland House

As part of a regeneration of Broad Street, Birmingham, Cumberland House is being modernised and re-designed within the constraints of the existing building structure. What once was an obsolete building will be upgraded and reopened as a hotel.The A. Proctor Group supplied this project with their Profloor Levelling System as a solution to enable a level finished floor that could be laid on the un-even sub floor.Profloor Levelling System is ideal for both new build and refurbishment. It significantly reduces impact and airborne noise pollution in multi level buildings and floors can be used immediately after installation.www.proctorgroup.com

Enquiry No. 85

Sika Protects Prestigious New Jersey Development

The £68 million first phase of a prestigious new development, consisting of two blocks of luxury apartments and commercial space, has recently been completed by Dandara, right on the St Helier waterfront in Jersey. Sika Watertight Concrete was a key ingredient in the construction of the underground car park on the project, which extends for two levels below ground, and which is in constant contact with the tidal flows, with the highest tides reaching the level of the higher basement floor level. Ronez supplied in excess of 4,000 cubic metres of Sika Watertight Concrete to the project. Construction of the basement car park presented a real challenge. Because of the considerable tidal movement, work had to be timed to coincide with low tides, as the basement area was under water at other times. BBA approved Sika Watertight Concrete reduces the water content of the mix and in turn the amount of capillary pores, and a pore blocker to block the remaining pores. Construction joints were sealed using metal water stop or the SikaSwell jointing system. www.sikawatertightconcrete.co.uk

Enquiry No. 86

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Pyroguard Drives Fire Protection Efficiency At SilverstonePyroguard FireDoor 60, the specialist fire door glazing product from CGI International, has been installed throughout the new Silverstone Wing, at the UK’s flagship racing circuit. Specified as vision panels for fire doors, the slim 7mm profile of Pyroguard FireDoor 60 enabled CGI International glazing partner, Waller Glazing Services, to cut the product on-site and ultimately drive efficiencies with the site programme. Installed as vision panels in over 50 doors throughout the new wing, Waller Glazing Services value engineered the original fire glass specification with Pyroguard FireDoor 60 – to achieve time, cost and labour savings as compared with the 11mm product usually specified for 60 minute applications. Steve Waller, Managing Director, Waller Glazing Services, explains: “Speed of turn around and cost were two prevailing factors on this project. As a lighter and more cost effective product than 11mm glazing, Pyroguard FireDoor 60 was much quicker to install and at only 7mm thick, could be cut by hand on-site.”Developed specifically for the UK fire door market, FireDoor 60 was the first 7mm laminated 60 minute fire safety glass which can be cut by hand. The product has test certification for use in Document M vision panels of 300mm (width) to

1400mm (height) and offers an impact safety rating of 3B3, sound reduction of up to 34dB in specific door systems and 87 percent light transmission.Pyroguard FireDoor 60 offers the same advantages of standard Pyroguard – including UV stability, making it suitable for internal and external applications, as well as no edge taping. David Jolliffe, CGI International Managing Director, concludes: “Since its launch, FireDoor 60 has rapidly become a popular specification for projects where speed of install and cost are major considerations. At Silverstone, FireDoor 60 proved that at only 7mm thick, it is much easier to handle and quicker to glaze. As innovators in fire glass solutions, we are committed to developing products that specifically address challenges facing specifiers and contractors – FireDoor 60 is an excellent example of this.” www.pyroguard.eu

Enquiry No. 88