BUILDING FOR EDUCATION & adf STUDENT ......Building for education & student accommodation supplement...

BUILDING FOR EDUCATION &STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

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Building for education & student accommodation supplement

4 Industry news and comment

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Middlesex University, Hendon, LondonMiddlesex University needed a flexible and sustainable campus to suit adiverse range of academic subjects. Mark Smulian reports on theRitterman Building

Verde Student Accommodation, NewcastleIn a city that is regenerating itself, new structures need to projectconfidence, something the unmissable Verde does with ease, writes RayPhilpott

Ysgol Bro Dinefwr, Llandeilo, WalesJess Unwin discovers how architects ASL overcame local opposition tocreate a new secondary school in a Welsh market town

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Let the sun shineRenson Fabrications discusses the various outdoor sun protection systemsthat allow the light in while maintaining a comfortable indoor climate

Putting VOCs in detentionMatthew Sexton of British Gypsum looks at the effects air quality can haveon a child’s academic performance and development

Providing a solid base for educationSimon Clark of Sika Flooring considers the benefits of resin flooring ineducation establishments

Quiet please!Rob Crampton of Hush Acoustics on the importance of acoustics ineducational buildings

Glazing that makes the grade Andrew Copper of Senior Architectural Systems sheds new light on theprocess of window specification for the student accommodation sector

Shedding light on efficiencyMaria Holton of Luceco looks at how energy efficient lighting should beconsidered as part of the design process in educational establishments

A masterclass in hygieneChris Tranter of Bristan explains the importance of non-touch technologyin school washrooms

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PROJECTS

FEATURES

CONTENTS

06.17

4 NEWS

WWW.ARCHITECTSDATAFILE.CO.UK ADF JUNE 2017

FROMTHE EDITOR

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ContributorsRay PhilpottMark SmulianJess Unwin

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Sales ExecutivesSuzanne EasterIan FletcherKim FriendSteve Smith

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p u b l i s h i n g – v e r t i c a l s e a r c h

Levers for investment in the education sector are not what they used to be. Recognising the sorrystate of a lot of England’s education estate, and its resultant damaging effect on pupils’ chances, theGovernment launched the Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme, whose first wave of

schemes emerged in 2005.

However as with the similarly PFI-funded hospital building boom of the late 1990s and early 2000s, therewas a great deal of controversy around whether the wham-bam approach to delivering schools quick wasboth able to and did indeed generally deliver the required quality for good learning environments.

Some of the demolition decisions seemed more brutal to many than the allegedly brutal buildings theywere removing, such as Pimlico School in London. And their replacements were not universally hailed as asuccess to say the least, such Pimlico’s replacement, which was criticised by the Government’s designwatchdog CABE. And although Scotland did not fall under BSF, there was a ‘damning’ report in 2016 on17 PFI schools built in Edinburgh which were claimed to have serious safety-critical design flaws.

Perhaps the issues resulting from PFI and the standardisation attempts made in BSF were what led MichaelGove to can the programme in 2010 and replace it with a combination of the Priority Schools BuildingProgramme, or maybe it was the start of austerity. Essentially PSBP is a repair and renewal programme forthe most dilapidated schools, and the separate Academies and Free Schools programmes. The new schemeoffered hope to around 150 projects were left in limbo following the ending of BSF, including promises ofgetting off the ground in far less time than BSF equivalents. In total 277 projects are planned to completebefore 2021.

While the PSBP covers a wide range of repair and rebuilding projects in England, Wales took the bull bythe horns and introduced Schools Challenge Cymru, whose funding ended in 2016 but in three yearstargeted 40 schools for improvement. One of these was a new school, Bro Dinewfr, in picturesqueCamarthenshire (which we feature on page 26 of this special supplement). However despite its attractive,eco-friendly design, the fact that it was created to replace two schools (one of which was 12 miles away),illustrates the funding challenges and the resultant local opposition the architects had to counter.

And kids of course face their own set of challenges. Now confronting formal SATS tests at age 11, on topof the perennial pressures to cope with in school, the minimum our kids deserve is that scrutiny and care ispaid to the quality of the environments that underpin their learning. Beyond mere cliches of ‘investing inthe future’, it’s simply a basic requirement of a civilised society to provide education in a way that isharmonious and supportive. Buildings are a fundamental part of this, from daylight to acoustics but alsobuild quality and aesthetics, and this supplement celebrates several good examples.

James ParkerEditor ON THE COVER... VERDE STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

NEWCASTLEVerde is an unashamedly attention-grabbing, show-stopper of a building. Clad in reflective, chromaticgreen ceramic tiles, the front of the striking structureresembles the prow of large ship.For more information, go to page 20.© Daniel Hopkinson

BUILDING FOR EDUCATION &STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

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The head of one of the UK’s leading education sector suppliers has claimed thata growing number of “shabby schools”across the UK are not only failing pupilsbut are contributing to the lack of newentrants to the teaching profession.New research by British Thornton,

the UK’s largest education furnituremanufacturer, has shown that cuts tofunding in the sector have led to significantreductions in investment in learningenvironments, to the detriment of bothstudents and teachers. The research, which surveyed 198

schools across the UK on their spendingintention during the current academic year,has revealed that overall spending oneducational furniture will reduce by £3.3min 2016/17 in a market that is usuallyworth £200m annually. The data also reveals that fewer schools

than last year are likely to be in a positionto utilise funds from their developed capitalformula (DFC) allocation for the purpose of

furniture procurement. Continued pressureon funding has seen many schools prioritisespending on what British Thornton calls the“Ofsted essentials” of desks, chairs andstorage while spending in categories such asplay space, soft furnishing and generalrefurbishment are largely being ignored. Ofsted has been a major driver behind

school spending decisions in recent years,according to British Thornton. “Tomaintain inspection results against ever-shrinking budgets, many are concentratingon areas that deliver direct pupil attainmentimprovements,” said the firm. “This meanssimply ensuring there are enough tables andchairs for pupils to use – rather thanconsidering any improvements to the widerlearning environment.”According to RIBA, only 5 per cent of

60,000 buildings in 18,000 schools inEngland are in top condition, performing asintended and operating efficiently. Gerard Toplass, chief executive officer of

British Thornton, said: “The education

marketplace has seen significant politicalinterference over the last few years that hashad a massive impact on both the structureand funding models for schools. Budgetsare being slashed and overall market uncer-tainty is having a hugely detrimental impacton the standards of education being deliv-ered to students.”He continued: “We must remember that

the pupils themselves need to be the numberone priority for the sake of this country’sfuture. Schools need to be able to focus on delivering a first class education andtherefore improving standards, results and ultimately career and life prospects for pupils.”

“Shabby” schools are failing studentsand teachers, says specialist supplier

RESEARCH

Gerard Toplass

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6 NEWS


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A Victorian building and teaching space at Bishop GrossetesteUniversity (BGU) in Lincoln has been transformed into a modern,flexible learning facility thanks to a £350,000 refurbishment.The project to improve the Centre for the Enhancement of

Learning & Teaching (CELT Building) at the site was designed bylocal architects LK2, delivered by construction partner RobertWoodhead and procured through the empa ii Minor WorksFramework formed by local authorities in the East Midlands. Thescheme was project managed by Scape Group.The original building featured a collection of mid-Victorian

neo-gothic vaulted spaces, recently used as art classrooms. Itrequired a sensitive design due to its historical significance andstructural issues. Featuring large openings between the vaultedrooms and tall ceilings highlighted with up-lighting to soften thewhite walls and ceilings, the design has used copper to reference theoriginal red-brick Victorian building. The building has a large entrance lobby with reception, seating

and two meeting rooms, plus a Student Support Space whichincludes IT resources and seating areas for private conversations.A vaulted area, featuring two 70 metre Danish oil treated glulam

timber beams houses a “giant” studio desk which has been designedto encourage all departments of the CELT Building to share anddiscuss ideas. One of two offices features two newly uncovered andrefurbished original brick gothic arches. Steve Deville, BGU director of resources said: “The project

encountered serious challenges associated with working in an oldbuilding, but the quality of the finish which has resulted inextremely positive comments from those already engaging with thecentre have made it all worthwhile.”

LK2 will feature in Ask the architect in the July issue of ADF

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8 NEWS


A £41m university building in Birminghamhas taken a major step forward as thefinishing touches have been made to the development.

Contractor BAM and local stakeholderswere joined by staff and students fromBirmingham City University at the institu-tion’s new Health Sciences and Educationbuilding to mark the traditional toppingout ceremony and celebrate a key milestonein the delivery of the facility.

The 10,500 m2 extension on WestbourneRoad in Edgbaston forms part of theuniversity’s City South campus. Set to openin 2018, it will also enable relocation of theuniversity’s School of Education, consoli-dating the Faculty of Health, Education andLife Sciences onto one site.

Designed by architects Sheppard Robson,

the building will help reinforce BirminghamCity University’s claimed status as “theregion’s largest provider of qualified healthand social care professionals to the NHSand producer of more teachers than anyother institute in the West Midlands.”

The space will offer teacher training andspecialist facilities for health sciencesincluding provision for research, a newlecture theatre, a multi-purpose hall, speechtherapy, physiotherapy and ultrasoundsuites, art and technology classrooms andIT hubs.

Speaking at the topping out ceremony,Professor Graham Upton, vice-chancellor ofBirmingham City University said: “Todaymarks an exciting new chapter in theuniversity’s long and proud history. Notonly will this new building allow us to

strengthen our existing education teachingand research programmes, we will also beoffering a wide range of new health, nutri-tion and biomedical science courses.”

He continued: “The new building alsostrengthens our student experience anduniversity community by allowing us tohouse our health and education offeringson one site for the first time. In doing so,we are creating a significant hub for ourpublic service contracts and professionaldevelopment provision in Edgbaston, offer-ing more consistent support services andfacilities for both students and staff.”

The building forms part of the univer-sity’s £260m investment into new state-of-the-art facilities, which will be strengthenedwith the opening of the new £57mBirmingham Conservatoire later this year.

Milestone reached for £41m City University science building

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In 1992 Huddersfield Polytechnic changed its name to The University of Huddersfield and in January 2014

the University opened Student Central. This was a £22.5m development which brought together the University’s support services, access to the library, computing facilities, sport and leisure, together with a range of eating and social spaces all under one roof.Like most red brick universities, the sports

and leisure facilities feature very heavily in student life. These sports areas take a hammering and needed to be both resilient and functional. With this problem, very much in mind the university had to ensure that they dealt with a quality flooring manufacturer to deliver the sports flooring they would need. The brief had to offer a suitable solution for an ‘under rig’ flooring area which was positioned directly underneath the sports centres ‘Technogym Omnia’ system. Chosen for its comfort and safety performance properties Taraflex® Sport M Evolution from international flooring and interiors specialist Gerflor would be the specified product.Taraflex® vinyl sports flooring from inter-

national flooring and interiors specialist Gerflor has been used in many international and local sporting events and is available in 17 colours and two wood-effect designs. The Sport M Evolution product offers a P1 category shock absorbency 25 per cent to 35 per cent and meets the EN 14904 Standard for indoor sports surfaces. Taraflex® is recog-nised for providing durability, safety and comfort without impairing performance. The range offers greater than 45 per cent force reduction, making it unrivalled in the market-place in terms of offering comfort for users. Taraflex® meets the EN Standard of 22196 for anti- bacterial activity (E. coli - S. aureus - MRSA) (3) returning >99 per cent levels of growth inhibition. The product is also treated with Protecsol®, which renders polish redundant and is triple action meaning no polish is ever required, it contributes to easy maintenance and is anti-friction burn and slide/grip. Taraflex® has a double density foam backing and with another bonus, it’s environmentally friendly. Gerflor offers several installation solutions for Taraflex®

including the Eco-Fit System which allows fast, free floating installation.

In 2014 at the time of the completed flooring installation Laurie Nettleton, Sportand Leisure Centre Manager said, “Gerflorinstalled a bespoke flooring solution at ourSports Centre providing protection under-neath the functional rig. The floor was fittedin less than 5 hours and the team wereefficient, friendly and professional”. Gerflorwere also able to utilise their bespoke watercutting, HD printing and line marking servicefor this project.Laurie Nettleton also added, “Team Hud

sports staff are also impressed and find themarkings helpful when delivering functionaltraining classes. I personally love the solution,so much so that we are planning to expandthe flooring into other areas within our newFitness Suite”.

As the passage of time moved on thedurability and performance of the Gerflorsports flooring would be a crucial element inthe ongoing delivery to the users. RecentlyLaurie Nettleton commented, “The Taraflexfloor is proving to be very durable and stilllooks as good as new. The floor is non-slipwhich is essential, it is aesthetically pleasingand works well under the Omnia frame”. Sheconcluded by simply saying, “Feedback fromstudents and staff at the University about theflooring has been very positive, which wouldsuggest we got this purchase just right”.Learn more about Gerflor solutions, ask

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There is a real desire for environmental sustainability withinthe higher education sector. To address that, the SKA forhigher education (SKA HE) scheme was established last year

in order to reflect the specific needs of educational facilities,especially as many institutions are housed within grand, historicbuildings and present a whole new set of challenges. Unlike previ-ous SKA schemes or other ratings systems, SKA HE has beenspecially tailored by the industry to take into account the specialistnature of higher education and its spaces, such as lecture theatres,research laboratories, and teaching spaces.

Having extensive sustainability experience, Overbury was invitedto sit on a development committee for SKA HE and help shape anew ratings system. The SKA HE committee engaged with anumber of higher education institutions to create the new standard;each area of the higher education sector has been considered andbenchmarks have been set.

Beyond standardAs a result, 131 good practice measures (GPMs) were developedand each only assesses against the criteria that relate to particularproject. In comparison to BREEAM, where the total number ofcredits forms the final sustainability score, the SKA tool is more‘scopeable’, making it appropriate for projects of all types, sizesand complexities.

SKA HE also challenges good practice within the sector, ratherthan simply satisfying current industry standards. As part of theresearch process for a GPM, it was important re-evaluate whatrepresents ‘standard’ and ‘best’ practice. This meant defining amiddle ground where architects would be encouraged to go‘beyond standard’ without necessarily adopting best practice inorder to achieve the GPM.

The new measures include good lab design, air quality impactassessment, furniture storage logistics and a ‘social value’ plan; asocial, economic and environmental plan that can be put in placeprior to start on site. This can act as a tool for helping projects tomake quantifiable steps across at least four key criteria, which caninclude materials, work hours and training.

Silver ratingIn practice, the SKA HE assessment proved challenging but achiev-able through careful planning and collaboration with the projectteams. Overbury recently completed a £2.1m, 20,000 ft2 project forthe London School of Economics (LSE) on Portugal Street incentral London. The key objective of the project was to create a‘one-stop shop’ for student services known as LSE Life, whichcreated a mix of social, quiet and collaborative areas. On comple-tion, the LSE Life project achieved both a SKA for Offices Gold

rating, and the newer and more challenging SKA for HE Silver rating.

Working with Architecture PLB, the project team embraced theconcept of demonstrating social value actions through operatingunder the Considerate Constructors Scheme and drew up a SocialEconomic & Environmental Plan for the project. Specific actionsthat helped the team to achieve these measures included sourcinglocal materials and labour and having apprentices and graduatesworking on site. The multi-use space was designed and built withwell-being in mind, including efficient lighting and ventilationlevels. Material selection ensured that furniture, constructionmaterials and finishes were chosen for their environmental creden-tials, and all timber was FSC-certified.

Having worked with RICS to develop the SKA HE rating, wehad the ability to see first-hand the differences when meetingrequirements and assessing the project on both schemes – aninvaluable learning experience for the entire project team. Theratings demonstrate that the new SKA HE scheme has pushed crite-ria to reflect advancements in good practice across the industrywhile also addressing higher education-specific requirements. Fullengagement by the design team resulted in a successful, sustainablefit-out which achieved a SKA HE Silver rating and paved the wayfor future SKA HE projects.

Joe Croft is head of environmental and sustainability at Overbury(and Morgan Lovell)

Joe Croft, head of environmental and sustainability at Overbury, examines achallenging environmental assessment method for higher education fit-outs

Joe Croft of fit-out specialist Overbury

Bringing SKA back to schoolCOMMENT

12 INSIGHTS


www.overbury.com

www.thedecktileco.co.uk

Middlesex University needed a flexible and sustainable campus to suit a diverse range ofsubjects and new teaching methods. Mark Smulian reports on the results

New forms of learning

MIDDLESEX UNIVERSITYHENDON, LONDON

BUILDINGPROJECTS


Amathematics teacher would tellpupils that 17 into one “won’t go,”but that trick is what Middlesex

University has accomplished as it hassteadily shed the confusing patchwork of sites it used to occupy across northLondon and consolidated its activities at Hendon.

This is not by the standards of traditionaluniversity campuses a large space, and ithas taken some ingenuity to fit all the requi-site buildings onto it – and an investment ofsome £200m since this programme began in2000 – with BPR Architects having workedwith Middlesex right the way through.

The 3,300 m2 Ritterman Building is thelatest piece in the Hendon jigsaw.

Most people enter the campus throughthe main entrance, named the RickettQuadrangle, and part of the Ritterman’spurpose is to provide a hub and focus forthe far end of the campus, which previouslylacked this.

Named after university chancellor DameJanet Ritterman, the £18m building wasdesigned with two specific educational ideasin mind.

There is a common perception that scien-tists and technologists know little ofcreativity, while their creative arts counter-parts are dubious about using technology:


put them together and they could learnfrom each other and find unexpected waysto collaborate.

The other idea was that people learnthrough practice and as advised by tutorsrather than from listening only. So whilesubjects like fine art and dance require largespaces, in the Ritterman building, thecomputing, science and robotics laborato-ries are open-plan, designed so teachers canwalk between students and advise them ontheir work.

Adapting the siteThere was really only one space where theRitterman could go, which was originallyoccupied by a steep grassy bank giving ontoa largely disused extremity of the campus.

Levelled, the site now houses a strikingbuilding, predominately in glass and shadesof green tiles, inhabited by science, technol-ogy, interior architecture, fine art and dancestudents, along with innovations such as amachine that makes ceramic objects basedon the frequency with which Tweets aboutthe University are detected on the internet,and a robot called Baxter that can interactwith humans.

Outside, the Ritterman is a large open

space adjacent to its cafe, which can be usedto erect art installations on plinths orsimply as an open air social space outsidethe adjacent students’ union building whenweather permits.

As building work began, a retaining sheetpile wall was installed to the eastern end ofthe building to accommodate the bank ofearth and the base had to be sealed with agas-proof membrane due to the presence ofthe naturally occurring gas radon.

The bank was demolished then backfilledafter which a ground-bearing concrete slabwith pile foundations was installed. Abovethat came a concrete frame building whichwas poured in-situ. Inside, the stairs areprecast concrete units.

The concrete structure is based on a gridlayout of columns and beams, so theinterior can be divided as needed into

First floor beams havebeen structurallyover-sized to allowpotential future creationof double-height spaces

ABOVEThe building and (cantilever) under construction

16 MIDDLESEX UNIVERSITY, HENDON, LONDON


rooms or open plan spaces.First floor beams have been structurally

over-sized to allow potential future creationof double height spaces.

Externally, the Ritterman is clad in acurtain walling system which contained theglazed green brick slips as part of thepanels. The large areas of green tiles weresheets of brick slips which were attached tothe blockwork wall construction at a lower level.

Viewing the Ritterman from most anglesshows small cantilevered sections overhang-ing to break up the line of the building andheld up by columns. These are also madefrom in-situ concrete with the overhangingsections supported by beams.

The first cantilevered section is supportedby the three columns and a protrudingbeam that extends past the end of the floor,while the floor above has a beam in thecentral section that adjoins the central columns.

There is a basement, ground floor andthree upper floors, ending in a flat roof.Smaller roof spaces on the cantileveredsections provide green roofs, part of asustainability system which is among theRitterman’s main features. Its flat roof is

split over two levels and collects rainwater,which feeds both the living walls installedon some sections of the building and theinternal toilets. There are also photovoltaiccells on the roof to generate energy.

Space redefinedInside, fine art occupies the lower groundfloor level, designed with large spaces andhigh ceilings to provide students artisticfreedom as they create their works.Transport logistics have been addressedthrough the creation of a large doorwayonto an adjacent road which allows foreasy delivery of materials.

Similarly, double-height rehearsal roomwith adjunct changing rooms is designedfor dance students on the upper groundfloor. Interior architecture students, whichoccupy the second floor, can also benefitfrom double-height studio spaces on thebuilding’s north side, which provides thebest light for drawing. Moreover, art andinterior architecture studios have foldingwalls to enable them to be adapted todifferent class sizes.

Science and technology can be found onall floors including facilities such as a fabri-cation laboratory and the mechatronics and

ABOVE LEFT & ABOVE RIGHTRainwater is collected and feeds both the living wallsinstalled

BOTTOM RIGHTThe lower ground floor level spaces are large with highceilings to provide students artistic freedom

17MIDDLESEX UNIVERSITY, HENDON, LONDON


robotics equipment distributed around flexi-ble spaces. Technical tutor Nick Weldensays: “The space is designed so that insteadof sitting in a lecture, the staff walk aroundas they teach – based on the idea that youwill remember something better if you do itrather than just hear it.” Welden adds, “Ienjoy the building because it makes you dosomething different. There is a lot of lightand we must have one of the best views inLondon – you can see the Wembley Arch.”

More than just a buildingThere is something else unusual about theRitterman too, the concept of the buildingitself being designed as a teaching resource.As defined by BPR’s user guide for staffand students, “As well as the physicalsystems and spaces in the building whichwe hope will support new innovation, thereare opportunities for the building itself tobe used as a resource for experimentationand data gathering.”These could perhaps include analysis ofsunlight falling on the photovoltaic panelsto assess local weather conditions, or theefficiency of sustainable systems andmonitoring of water levels in the livingwalls to assess weather conditions andcreate responsive or programmable irrigation systems.BPR designed the Ritterman to BIMLevel 2 and the 3D computer-aided designmodel created has been left for theUniversity’s use in managing and maintain-ing the building, and for a design tool forinterior architecture students and a resourcefor a new Masters course in BIM.

Focus on sustainabilityStudents interested in sustainability canalso learn much from the building, which

has secured a BREEAM Excellent rating.Its water management system collects anddistributes rainwater by channelling it intocisterns behind the toilets. Excess water isdiverted down to the living roofs, whichhost more than 3,500 plants, to be soakedup by soils that feed wild flowers andgrasses and support biodiversity.Surplus water is stored in a large tankbehind the living walls and irrigates them as necessary. Any remaining water, forexample after heavy rainfall, goes to anunderground tank to be released slowly tothe public drainage system, acting as partof a flood defence for homes on landbelow the campus.All south-facing windows have brisesoleil louvres to shade them and reduce theneed to lower blinds, while low-powerLEDs are controlled by sensor systemsdetecting if people are present in a room.Light levels are also monitored so thatillumination grows brighter the further alight is from a window, or as light fadeslater in the day.

“World class” Middlesex’s vice chancellor, Professor TimBlackman, has hailed the Ritterman build-ing as helping the University to continueto “provide our students with a world-class learning environment equipped withthe latest facilities and technology,”cementing its reputation among employers“for graduates taught in industry-standardsettings with the skills they need.”The Ritterman Building provides space,flexibility for the new teaching methodsbeing used, and sustainability. If reallyradical changes are needed in future,maybe Baxter the Robot could help workthem out. �

Art and interiorarchitecture studios havefolding walls to enablethem to be adapted todifferent class sizes

GRID LAYOUTThe concrete structure is based on a grid layout ofcolumns and beams, so the interior can be divided asneeded into rooms or open plan spaces

PROJECT DETAILS

Client: Middlesex UniversityArchitect: BPR Main contractor: InterservePlanning consultant:Tibbalds PlanningQuantity surveyor: Sweet GroupVertical gardens: TreeboxIn-house project manager: RLBDecoration: Skyline PaintingCurtain walling and windows:SchuecoInsulation: KingspanPlanning authority:London Borough of Barnet


01243 55 44 [email protected]

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CHROMATICThe two buildings in the Verde scheme are clad inchromatic, hand-fired gloss-finish ceramic tiles in aniridescent green shade

Verde is an unashamedly attention-grabbing, showstopper of abuilding. Clad in reflective,

chromatic green ceramic tiles, the front ofthis striking new structure resembles theprow of large ship, projecting out of thefresh, contemporary urban landscape thathas completely reshaped the area’s indus-trial past.Built to meet the city’s growing demand

for student residences away from thesuburbs, it is undeniably a statement build-ing, a million miles away in design ethosfrom the utilitarian accommodation sooften seen in the higher education sector.Verde sits between the rising, V-shaped

junction of two major streets, and is thefourth and final phase of the £250mDowning Plaza. Designed by architectsSimpsonHaugh the scheme has a series ofattractive, modern buildings providing120,000 ft2 of teaching space forNewcastle University Business School,more than 1,800 student bedrooms andextensive retail provision.Together with Science Central, a new

23-acre mixed-use development beingconstructed to the west, Downing Plazaforms a gateway to Newcastle city centre.Given that architectural environment,SimpsonHaugh and its long-standingclient, student accommodation specialistDowning, realised Verde needed to be avisually impressive, high-quality buildingfrom the outset.The 540-bedroom building has two

distinct elements; a nine-storey ‘V’-shapedstructure where Wellington Street and Pitt

Street meet, and a broadly ‘L’-shaped, 10-storey building positioned to create asecure, gated triangular courtyard areabordered by the public footpath that formsthe third ‘side’ of the site.There is a seven metre fall across the

site, which has been exploited by settingthe ‘L’-shaped building lower than theother helping to break up the roofline andimprove views from both Barrack Road tothe south east and views down Pitt Street.Entrances to both buildings are from the

courtyard. One sits within a triple-heightwalk through area effectively cut out ofthe lower part of the ‘L’ building, thesecond located in the wide crux of the ‘V’ building.

Rich and vibrantVerde replaces two demolished blocks of1960s flats immediately north of theformer Scottish and Newcastle brewerysite Downing Plaza is built on, althoughlittle original infrastructure remains.SimpsonHaugh Partner Matthew Ayers

says: “While the ship-like aspect acknowl-edges Newcastle’s maritime connectionswe didn’t want to create a historicalpastiche.“There’s a distinctive new-build

aesthetic to the area. You have to look atVerde with Downing Plaza in mind, partic-ularly The View, the tallest building withvivid blue colours and the exterior of thebuilding opposite with its bold orange,strong golds and bronzes.“We needed to balance this with

something rich and vibrant. A strong green

In a city that is regenerating itself, new structures need toproject confidence, something the unmissable Verde doeswith ease, writes Ray Philpott

Newcastle shows itsgreen credentials

VERDE STUDENT ACCOMMODATIONNEWCASTLE

BUILDINGPROJECTS

21


both complements those buildings, yet isoutstanding in its own right and enhancesthe dramatic impact of the prow. Introducea strong colour and a building becomesmemorable even if people don’t know howthe building is used or why the colour was selected.”

The gloss-glazed, hand-fired, clay tilesmade specifically for the project by Frenchcompany Terreal undeniably demandattention with their colour and finish.Most are uniformly sized, flat and smooth,some have been profiled to lean out fromthe side to ‘roughen-up’ the facade andcreate interest, fading away to smoothnesstowards the ‘prow.’

Similarly, strip windows on the facadesnot only create a linear, ship-like effect butsubtly move in and out of different planes,adding further movement and texture.

Ayres explains: “We spent a lot of timemodelling the facade to see how it wouldlook and behave and, onsite the excellentfacade sub-contractor, Dane Architectural,understood exactly the effect we weretrying to achieve, and paid great care andattention to the detail.

“We love that serious lustre and the waylight and shadow plays across it. On good,sunny days you get fantastic reflections inthe facade and the building seems toalmost dissolve into the sky.”

Given that decorative tiling is vulnerableto damage at street level, the base has beenclad in hard-wearing, blue, smooth andwire-cut engineering bricks, in a chequered bond.

ReflectiveThe courtyard and inward-facing facadesof the building transition the buildingaway from the green and linear theme to asilver-grey, vertical one, with aluminiumcladding and glazing used to capture andthrow light around.

“As you move inwards, the chequered

The shape of the buildingnaturally dictates that thecore is placed in the cruxof the ‘V’, with a groundfloor reception andcirculation area andclusters of four rooms withshared facilities coming offat each level

ADF JUNE 2017

repeating pattern of vertical rectanglesstands in stark contrast to the hard, glossyand colourful exterior addressing thepublic highways, presenting a finish that’smore reflective in perception, materialityand spirit and is, to some extent,unexpected.

“People will be spending time in thecourtyard, so it’s about playing with thatscale and materials to give a different feel,”explains Ayers.

The metal facade panels have a protec-tive coat of varnish, preserving the naturalgrain and materiality of aluminium, butusing slightly different shades of coating tocreate subtle tonal differences. These panelswrap under the soffits and down to theground, while the double-height glazingpanels are actually two windows linkedtogether to emphasise verticality.

A variety of spaces are created withinthe multi-purpose courtyard, enablingstudents to sit outside, interact or work ifthey want to. The landscaping needs to berobust and exude quality, so there’s amixture of natural stone pavers, plusgranites and slate finishes with planting tosoften the edges. It runs through the tripleheight ‘cut out’ in the L-shaped building,which is supported by concrete columns.

Ayers says: “The courtyard is a fairlydramatic, unconventionally-shaped spacewhere people can enjoy varying senses oflight and shadow during the day and,when it’s lit up at night, some very interesting reflections.”

StructureIn structural terms, the building consists ofa reinforced concrete frame sitting on piledfoundations with some steelwork to shapethe forward sloping area on the top floorsof the V-shaped building and a metal standing-seam roof.

Ceramics are mounted on a metal struc-tural frame system with combined boardinsulations and membrane running downthe slab edge and returned on the soffit ofthe next slab up.

The majority of facade installation wascarried out using mast climbers, but fromthe architects’ perspective, the trickiest partof the construction was creating the topelement of the prow. Here, the buildingnarrows to just 30-40 mm at very top,requiring a pre-formed element, including asub-frame and tiles, to be lifted in by crane.

Internally, the emphasis on qualitycontinues. Verde’s 368 cluster beds and175 superior studios all feature pod-style

MODELLINGThe architects SimpsonHaugh spent “a lot of time”modelling the facade to see how it would look as wellas behaveAll images © Daniel Hopkinson

FAST FACTS

• Planning approved: July 2014 • Work on site begins:December 2014

• Completed: Aug 2016 (6rst academic year was Sept 2016)

• Total rooms and studios: 540• Site footprint: 3,830 m2

• Number of storeys: nine and 10 • Scheme value: £46m

23VERDE STUDENT ACCOMMODATION, NEWCASTLE


bathrooms, around which the sophisti-cated rooms are built onsite by specialistKKA interiors. While living space withinthe building is finished in calm tones,bolder hues are found in the spacious,light-filled common areas.The shape of the ‘V’ building naturally

dictates that the core is placed at the cruxof the ‘V’, with a ground floor receptionand circulation area and clusters of fourrooms with shared facilities coming off ateach level, and some studios installed atthe narrow ends. On the ground floor theprow is fitted out as a communal areawith a gym, cinema viewing area, gamesrooms, and general social space.In the other building the core sits in the

elbow of the ‘L’, with combined studiounits and kitchens radiating out eachfloor, and additional six-room clusterswith shared facilities on the outer ends ofthe ‘L’.

Ventilation and heatingWith student accommodation, Ayersexplains how the biggest challenge iskeeping the interior warm, while losingexcess heat. “With lots of small, cellular,extremely well-insulated rooms heat getstrapped inside, so we control this using acombination of solar control coatings onthe glass, blinds and mechanical extractionwith opening windows if required.”While most plant is at ground level, the

roof plant and communal areas include airconditioning utilising heat recovery units.However, it was not economically viable toinstall photovoltaic cells. Although no official BREEAM rating’s

been awarded as yet, the team’s been carefulto specify materials that are natural,recyclable and A-plus rated in the BREGreen Guide where possible.

Positive messageThe building opened in September 2016 atthe start of the current academic year and,judging by the number of rooms let,appears to be a popular choice. For Ayers,SimpsonHaugh’s strong, 10-year relation-ship with Downing is an important elementof the building’s success.“As a private developer Downing knows

the market well. They commission theirown buildings built by their in-houseconstruction company, so speedy progressand flexibility is the order of the day once aproject gets the go-ahead.“They recognise today’s students

expect quality and sophistication and theytend to hold on to their own buildings, so they want something that’s going to last. That, plus their firm support andstrong faith in what we do gives us theopportunity to design high-quality, adventurous buildings.”He concludes: “Until recently, Newcastle

hadn’t seen much development since the1960s. Now, there’s a massive post-indus-trial regeneration under way and as a partof that, Verde sends out a strong, positivemessage about the city’s long-term aspirations.” �

PROJECT DETAILS

Client: Downing Architect: SimpsonHaughMain contractor: George DowningConstructionCivil engineer: Alan Johnston Partnership Ceramic tile (installer): Dane ArchitecturalCeramic tile (manufacturer): Terreal Landscaping: Landscape Projects Interior architecture/design:KKA interiorsStructural engineer: Alan JohnstonPartnership

Verde sends out a strong,positive message about the city’s long-termaspirationsSimpsonHaugh partner Matthew Ayers

24 VERDE STUDENT ACCOMMODATION, NEWCASTLE


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Jess Unwin discovers how architects ASL overcome local opposition to create a newcombined secondary school with a passive energy design in Wales

Passively persuasive

YSGOL BRO DINEFWRLLANDEILO, WALES

BUILDINGPROJECTS

26


Taken alone, the challenge of re-imagining a new secondary school'sdesign to address issues with scale

and budget on a sensitive greenfield sitewould be a tough enough assignment.

But architects Austin-Smith:Lord (ASL)and the wider project team also had tocontend with local opposition to themerging of two existing schools so thatYsgol Bro Dinefwr could go ahead.

The £30m school, near Llandeilo inCarmarthenshire, is now complete, provid-ing education for 1,200 pupils. Included onsite are sports and vocational catering facili-ties plus a special education needs unit forautistic pupils.

However, during the design stage,elements of the community in this part ofWales made their opposition to the projectvery clear. The chosen site was particularly

unpopular in the market town ofLlandovery, 12 miles away, which was thelocation of one of the schools to be closedin the merger.

Vocal oppositionAndrew Lewis, lead architect for ASL onthis project, says: “There was a lot of vocalopposition to the closure of that school.That made development of the new schoolquite difficult.” He adds: “We've a trackrecord designing a broad range of schoolsand we always like to consult with futureusers and stakeholders, such as the seniormanagement team, the governors, thepupils. So when there's a lack of trust, butalso active opposition, that makes it trickyto engage people in the architecture.”

Things improved once constructionfinally got under way. “Once it was devel-

27


oped enough for people to walk around,they could really get an idea of the qualitythey were going to get.”

Adapting the designLewis says: “This is a beautiful greenfieldsite right next to a river that is overlookedby National Trust land and close to thewestern edge of the Brecon BeaconsNational Park. There were aspects of theoriginal scheme that were three storeys highand the way it was arranged made it appearbigger on the site that it needed to be.”

To help the school fit into the landscapeand get planning permission, the designwould need the backing of the DesignCommission for Wales, so ASL got to workmaking adjustments.

The collegiate-style arrangement of fourpavilions – containing classrooms, learningresource centre, assembly hall and kitchens– around a central courtyard was retained.However, the structures were reduced totwo-storey height and the sports hall andautistic unit were set a little distance awayfrom the pavilions to further reduce theoverall scale of the school.

And to help it blend in against abackground of woodland and hills, lightcolours and white render were replaced

with earthy tones – mid-brown brick anddark grey aluminium standing seam roofs.

Let there be lightOne of the other factors that informed theschool’s design was the Eisteddfod, theWelsh language festival of literature, musicand performance. Lewis explains: “Theschool’s senior management team andboard of governors were very keen to havea large school hall that could accommodateas many people as possible for Eisteddfod-related theatrical productions or musicalperformances and a proper stage withproper lighting.”

He continues: “We were also instructedto ensure the approach to the school had‘wow factor' without being too ‘loud’visually when seen from the road.” The

ABOVEAs a result of the design and the glazing visitors are“wowed” by a light and welcoming ground-floorreception and a double-height first-floor learning area

Once it was developedenough for people to walkaround, they could reallyget an idea of the qualitythey were going to get Andrew Lewis, lead architect

28 YSGOL BRO DINEFWR, LLANDEILO, WALES


ABOVEIn classrooms, teachers and pupils are able to openwindows to let fresh air in as part of the designers’passive ventilation strategy

answer to these conflicting goals is a mainentrance facade that makes extensivecontemporary use of glass.

The transparency of the glazing meansvisitors are indeed wowed by a light andwelcoming ground-floor reception and thedouble-height first-floor learning resource“It's confident and bold, yet inviting, andimmediately says this is a place of learning,”says Lewis.

Another change ASL made to the conceptdesigns was in circulation. “The originalscheme had a lot of the classrooms spillingout onto external decks, but we brought thecirculation back in inside,” explained Lewis.“Rather than having a standard centralcorridor, we have this double-height spacewhich runs through the centre of everypavilion. That brings in light from high upand illuminates the ground floor level of thecirculation space, making the space morepleasant to walk through.”

Hybrid ventilationThe light Lewis refers to permeates throughwindows that are part of the distinctiveroof design of the pavilions. Rather than aclassic apex-pitch roof, the pavilions boastan angled step shape and the glazing ispositioned in the vertical aspect of the step.

Closed and opened by electrical motors,the windows are also an intrinsic feature ofthe natural and passive ventilation strat-egy”for the school. Lewis explains: “Withinclassrooms, teachers and pupils simply openwindows to allow fresh air in. Hot air isdrawn out of the classroom through grillsin the corridor walls, up through thedouble-height corridor space and outthrough the glazing in the roof.”

He adds: "It's a very simple but provenapproach without having to force airthrough air handling units. The all-the-bells-and-whistles systems have often beenshown to be too complicated for users.Simple and intuitive is more effective.”

The passive ventilation system is just oneway in which Ysgol Bro Dinefwr is designedto achieve BREEAM Excellent and beawarded an Energy Performance CertificateA rating – standards that any new school inWales must now attain.

Sustainability gainsEnvironmental sustainability has been a keydriver in the design of the school. Lewissays: “Passive measures like the right orien-tation of the building, the right specificationand amount of glazing, overhangs andlouvre panels to offer solar protection, good

29YSGOL BRO DINEFWR, LLANDEILO, WALES


insulation and thermal values for externalmaterials may be less ‘sexy’ but will makemajor sustainability gains.”

Moreover, an extensive array of photo-voltaic panels have been positioned onsouth-facing roofs pitches to help supplynot only lighting but the high electricitydemand for IT devices that any school now has.

Sports for allThe school’s sports hall is not onlyseparated from the central pavilions toreduce the scale of the development – itsseparation underlines the potential forcommunity use out of hours when theschool is locked up. Lewis says:“Badminton, basketball and football facili-ties are provided to Sport England standardbut come the end of the school day, thesefacilities aren’t used as much. Of course,making them available to the communityalso provides an income for the school. The3G football pitches like those provided hereoften prove popular, although they are notfloodlit because of the sensitivity of the location.”

Besides the kitchen, which any school ofthis size would have to provide food for itsstudents, Ysgol Bro Dinefwr also offersvocational catering facilities, which it willshare with other partneringCarmarthenshire schools. This entails acommercial kitchen layout which can offerlearning opportunities to those considering

a career in catering, and even provide anarea that can be set up as a “simulated”restaurant.

Autism-friendly Also set back from the pavilions is theautistic special education needs unit. Here,aspects of the design differs from otherparts of the school. The double-height corri-dor approach has been abandoned becauseof safety considerations. In addition,construction is more robust; for example,walls are blockwork instead of the impact-resistant plaster board used in the rest ofthe school.

Autistic pupils can be noise intolerant sothe range of special therapy spaces makesuse of acoustic measures like finishesselected to provide more absorption ofsound. Classrooms have direct contact withthe external landscape area because goingoutside can sometimes be part of a strategyto diffuse stressful situations. Finally, theoutside play area features a soft, rubberisedplay surface.

Roman artefactsLewis admits Ysgol Bro Dinefwr had plentyof challenges. “Number one challenge wasknowing not everyone was fully on boardwith the project. Number two was thebudget: what had been initially presented tothe school was just not affordable.”

In the first few months of constructionthere was the added complication of what ageophysical survey (ground radar) discov-ered about the archaeological significanceof the site. A Roman road believed to passthrough the south-east corner of the sitewas confirmed. The survey also showed anumber of circular shadows, believed to be Bronze-age ring ditches, in the proposed playing field area and under thenorthern part of the building footprint. This assumption was confirmed throughexcavation.

A phased relocation of students wascompleted last year and the new school isnow fully occupied. Lewis concludes: “I'vebeen back since completion and it’s reallynice to see the students learning and havingfun in play spaces – it’s good to see that it’s working.” �

PROJECT DETAILS

Main contractor: Bouygues UKArchitecture, Landscape & InteriorDesign: Austin-Smith:LordCost Consultant: Faithful & GouldCivil & Structural Engineers: CB3 ConsultMEP Engineers: SABA ConsultPlanning Consultant: AsbriAcoustic Consultant: Hunter AcousticsBREEAM Assessor: Melin EnergyFire Engineer: Trenton FireCatering Designer and Subcontractor: ShineMEP Subcontractor: WhiteheadSpecialist Sports Pitches: South Wales Sports GroundRoo*ng: Central CladdingWindows, doors and curtainwalling: DenvalFixed furniture: T S Booker

Rather than a classic apex-pitch roof, thepavilions boast an angledstep shape

All images © Phil Boorman

30 YSGOL BRO DINEFWR, LLANDEILO, WALES


The trend is clear. We want to allow asmuch natural light in as possible.That is why we use so much glass.

The intensity of natural light changesconsiderably depending on the season, timeof day and cloud cover while the desiredcomfort level in classrooms remains thesame, including the prevention of overheat-ing in the summer. No wonder managingthat natural light becomes more importanteach day.Thanks to winter sunlight, energy

consumption can be reduced. However insummertime the sun can cause a lot ofproblems. An intensive insulation of build-ings keeps the warmth inside, which resultsin overheating. The sun also interferes withvisual comfort by reflecting off TV screensor computer monitors. And uncontrolledincoming sunlight can also lead todiscolouration of furniture, floors and curtains.Those problems can be prevented easily

by using efficient sun protection. Thiscreates optimal thermal comfort and makesa positive contribution to the energyconsumption of the entire building. Studiesshow that well conceived sun protectioncan reduce the annual energy consumptionlevels for a building by 10 per cent.It should also not be forgotten that sun

protection has an important aesthetic roleto play. Making good choices will not onlyensure that your project is energy efficient,but will also make an important contribu-tion to its aesthetic value.

Three ways to keep out the sunIndoor sun protection is a good andrelatively inexpensive way to keep the sun’srays out. However, it is not an optimalthermal solution, because the heat willeventually get in the building.Reflective glass also provides protection

from excessive solar heat. The disadvantageis that the light is also limited during thewinter period, so less warmth gets in then.Outdoor sun protection, structural or

screens, is the most efficient way to protectfrom the sun. It prevents the sun’s rays fromhitting the glass directly. The entering of

natural light and heat can be controlleddepending on the situation.

An extensive choice in outdoor sunprotection systemsThere are many different types of outdoorsun protection solutions, split into twocategories: structural sun protection andexternal blinds.As horizontal brise soleil blades are

mounted above windows, they do not inter-fere with the view from the inside. Theyalso provide good shading when the sun ishigh in summer. During winter, when thesun is much lower, they allow the warmthof the sun to come in.Vertically-mounted shutters – both fixed

or moveable, in front of the windows – arefrequently used in non-residential projectsas well, due to the sun protection as well asthe aesthetic aspect.When there is a risk of overheating, the

windows can be covered partially orcompletely by moveable sliding panels as well.Folding shutters are a type of dynamic

sun protection which can be converted fromsun protection in front of the window intoa horizontal open position above the window.As for external blinds, there has been a

transition to windproof solutions. Thesesystems are usually equipped with sideguide zip technology. This ensures a tightand windproof screen in every position.Different types of screens each have their

own characteristics: fibreglass fabricinsulates well and keeps UV-rays out, is 100per cent stable and easy to maintain.Polyester fibre cloths are also highly valuedfor their resistance to wear and tear. And ofcourse, there are also fabrics that arecompletely translucent, semi-translucentand obscuring.The efficiency of a screen is related to

its colour. Light-coloured screens allowmore light and UV-rays to enter the building, while darker fabrics filter out over 90 per cent of the UV-rays. Screenswith logos or artwork printed on them arealso possible.

Renson Fabrications discusses the options for outdoor sun protection systemsthat allow the light in while maintaining a comfortable indoor climate

Let the sun shine

Outdoor sun protection,structural or screens, isthe most efficient way toprotect from the sun

31


www.renson.eu

The University of the West of England has continued to demonstrate its commitment to sustainable building management by installing two Cool-phase Hybrid systems in its Estates Management Office.

Cool-phase has been shown to use up to 90% less energy than traditional A/C systems. In 2015, Monodraught estimated that the Cool-phase systems installed globally saved the equivalent of 272 double-decker buses of CO2.

Contact us for more information on Cool-phase Natural Cooling systems

+44 (0)1494 897700

[email protected]

Better buildings not only lead to brighter students, they are also good for the economy in terms of increased productivity

www.monodraught.com

It is widely known that outdoor airpollution can have an impact on anindividual’s health, however it is impor-

tant that people understand the effectsindoor air pollution can have on children’shealth, wellbeing and development,especially within schools where pupils willcome into contact with volatile organiccompounds (VOCs) such as formaldehyde.

Aside from sleeping and perhaps playing,there is no other activity that occupies achild’s time as much as attending school,and there is no single enclosure in whichthey spend more time than they do in theclassroom. With this in mind, it is vital thatschool environments are designed withgreat care; with thermal comfort, lighting,acoustics and most importantly, air qualityall thoroughly considered.

When it comes to air quality it’s taken forgranted that the air we breathe is clean andpollutant-free. However this isn’t alwaysthe case. Impurities found in both our livingand working spaces can cause healthproblems and reduce performance –especially in educational buildings, where itcan have a negative effect on pupils andstaff alike.

In 2005 the Government undertook astudy into indoor air quality (IAQ) in eightprimary schools across England. The studyfound that formaldehyde levels inside theschool were up 42 times greater than thoseoutside of the school. It also found that 21per cent of classrooms exceeded 300 μg mguideline levels of Total Volatile OrganicCompounds (TVOCs) – some rooms evenhad double the recommended concentra-tion, with implications for health.

Formaldehyde has been shown to causeheadaches, lethargy, reduced concentrationand breathing problems. You can’t see orsmell formaldehyde, so without thoroughtesting, there is no way of knowing theintensity levels a pupil in a school or univer-sity is being exposed to on a daily basis, orif it’s hindering students and teachers fromperforming well, specifically on tasksrequiring attention and memory.

Therefore good IAQ is important toprovide a safe, healthy, productive andcomfortable environment for students,teachers and other school staff – particu-larly as Building Regulations push for moreairtight constructions, which could result ina worse situation.

For specifiers, improving the indoorenvironment is a major considerationamong clients and building occupants, mostnotably those concerned with sustainabilityand health and wellbeing. Good clean aircan reduce health problems as well asenhance healthy living in both work andliving spaces. It is therefore important thatproducts that emit low VOCs are chosen aspart of the building fabric and finishes,however it is difficult to control everypotential formaldehyde source that comesinto a building on an on-going basis.

However, thanks to the advancements intechnology, specifiers will now be able tominimise formaldehyde levels to boost airquality throughout the life of the building,by choosing products that incorporateACTIVair.

ACTIVair is a new technology that hasbeen tested by the accredited Eurofinslaboratory. The test shows that ACTIVairneutralises up to 70 per cent of theformaldehyde in the indoor air.Incorporated during the manufacturingprocess, it remains active for the averagelife span of a building, at least 50 years –making it a long term air quality solution.ACTIVair also contributes towards twoBREEAM points under indoor air qualityas part of a management and handover testplan, and doesn’t impact on performanceregarding fire, acoustics and durability.

To ensure that you are creating an educa-tional environment that can contribute to thehealth and performance of students and staff,it is recommended that you liaise with areputable manufacturer for expert adviceincluding on the latest product developments.

Matthew Sexton is commercial sectormarket manager at British Gypsum

Matthew Sexton of British Gypsum looks at the effects air quality can have on a child’s academic performance and development – and recommends solutions to improve air quality

Putting VOCs in detention

When it comes to air qualityit is taken for granted thatthe air we breathe is cleanand pollutant-free

33


www.british-gypsum.com

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Higher education has become afiercely competitive market asuniversities strive to attract the

best students. It means establishments arelooking to ‘up their game’ in all aspects ofthe educational offering, including thequality of fixtures and fittings.

With UK student tuition fees totalling adaunting £9,250 per year, it’s no wondersome are starting to question what they areactually getting for their money. The mainfocus will undoubtedly be on the level ofteaching received, but facilities are comingunder increasing scrutiny. It’s proven thatstudents’ learning capacity is enhancedwithin an environment that is comfortableand well-designed.

Correct floor specification is vital to ahappy learning environment. Get it wrong,and there’s a risk of falls and injury, whichis costly to the affected student’s educationand potentially damaging to the establish-ment’s reputation. Flooring could also incurhigh maintenance costs if fitted poorly,while difficult-to-clean surfaces are amagnet for germs and microscopic mites.

A firm alternative A flooring system which provides a hard-wearing, cost-effective alternative to carpet,vinyl and timber, while helping educationalestablishments uphold the highest healthand safety standards, is available whenresin is specified.

Taking into account the needs of themost demanding educational environment,a flooring manufacturer’s specificationshould provide a solution that looks atoperational requirements, constructionjoints, floor-to-wall connections, surfacedesign and installation details.

Resin flooring products are easily-applied, hard-wearing systems that come inan expansive range of colours and meet awealth of aesthetic requirements, a particu-

larly useful characteristic bearing in mind alearning environment’s appearance canhave a positive and negative effect onstudent mood and behaviour.

Resin systems are perfect for applicationswhere exceptional hygiene standards arevital. Their seamless surfaces can be easilycleaned and maintained, and are a provensolution for food preparation areas –another important aspect of school anduniversity life. After all, who wants to bequeuing on a dirty, sticky floor?

Resin systems can also be regeneratedwith minimal downtime and loss ofrevenue. Extending the service life of anexisting flooring system through the resur-facing of a topcoat compatible with theoriginal floor provides a brand new surfaceand the option of changing the colour.Regenerating a thicker floor is possible withdiamond grinding pads which remove anyexisting surface damage and restore a floorto the same glossy surface of a new system.

Healthy greenResin flooring products also have strongenvironmental credentials. Many productsare now able to offer a lower GlobalWarming Potential (carbon footprint) andlow or even zero Volatile OrganicCompounds (VOC) options to deliverhealth benefits for educational buildings.

The design and functionality of ourschools, colleges and universities is vital tostudents’ wellbeing and success. Everyaspect of an establishment’s infrastructureshould conform to the highest standards inorder to create a safe, clean and comfort-able environment in which students canthrive. Resin flooring gives educationproviders a solid and sustainable founda-tion to build upon.

Simon Clark is product manager at Sika Flooring

Safe, stylish, durable flooring can have a major effect on an interior’s aesthetics andatmosphere. Simon Clark of Sika Flooring considers the benefits of resin flooring ineducation establishments

Providing a solid base for learning

BRIGHTResin flooring is available in an expansive range of colours

STUDENTSCorrect floor specification is vital to a happylearning environment

35


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While modern educationalbuildings have benefited fromvarious architectural and

technological enhancements, good acousticsremain a key factor in enhancing thelearning environment.Indeed, many studies have proved that

poor classroom acoustics can hinderlearning and teaching. The culprits can betraced to three main noise sources –reverberation noise, airborne sound sourcesand impact sound sources. While reverbera-tion is a common problem, it can have asignificant impact on the classroomenvironment. This includes instances ofbackground noise and group work-relatednoise that can crescendo to uncomfortablelevels if classrooms aren’t soundproofed.Similarly, airborne sound that travels

through separating walls and floors andimpact sound such as noise from footstepson the staircase can also be disruptive tothe learning process.

Special needsWhile creating learning spaces with goodacoustic performance may seem achievableand relatively standard, extra care shouldbe taken when designing spaces for pupilswith autism spectrum disorder (ASD).Pupils with special educational needs aregenerally even more reliant on good qualityacoustic facilities to bolster their health andwellbeing. Consequently, required reverber-ation times should be lower, soundinsulation between adjacent spaces higherand indoor ambient noise levels lowercompared to mainstream classrooms.In New Zealand, there has been

considerable debate around the effects thatnoise has on those with sensory processingdisorders (SPD), which is particularlyprevalent in those experiencing ASD. Pupilswith sensory processing issues can beoversensitive to noise and other forms ofsensory input. For example, the noise in abusy classroom can trigger meltdowns inASD. A wide range of noise types wereidentified in the study that caused distress.One of the categories of noise believed to

have the most adverse effect on ASD pupilsis noise in excessively reverberant rooms.The study found that reverberated noisecan be a major stressor, particularly inconfined spaces such as classrooms. In fact,many existing classrooms across Britainhave little or no acoustic treatment. Since ASD children, especially those with

classic autism, have serious speech andcommunication impairments, noise canonly exacerbate these issues. This is why acommon strategy is to move autisticchildren to quieter areas in order for themto escape the noise.

Meeting requirementsThe UK Building Regulations and theguidance in Building Bulletin 93 stipulatethat these noises are controlled and thatevery room or space within an educationalbuilding is designed to achieve a certainstatutory level of acoustic performance.The most effective way to reduce

reverberation, airborne and impact noiselevels within educational buildings is toensure high quality products are used. Theyshould comply with the following:• UK Building Regulations ApprovedDocument E (England & Wales);

• Section 5 of the Scottish BuildingStandards (Scotland);

• Approved Part G (Northern Ireland).These regulations set out important

criteria for sound insulation performancefor all types of educational buildings.Moreover, in order to help architects,contractors and acousticians to satisfy therequirements, the Government introducedthe guidelines “Building Bulletin 93:Acoustic Design of Schools – PerformanceStandards (BB93)” to ensure all new schoolbuildings are designed and built to achievea certain level of acoustic performance.Seeking soundproofing advice from

acousticians early in the design process iscrucial for achieving good acoustics ineducational buildings.

Rob Crampton is managing director ofHush Acoustics

Rob Crampton of Hush Acoustics looks at the crucial importanceof getting acoustics right in educational buildings

Quiet please!

The most effective way toreduce reverberation,airborne and impact noiselevels within educationalbuildings is to ensure highquality products are used

36


www.hush.uk.com

The days of dark, damp and depress-ing student ‘digs’ have fortunatelycome to an end and now, students

have the reassuring choice of university-runhalls of residence and purpose built accom-modation schemes.

As student rooms are generally seen astemporary abodes they often follow adifferent design code to other residentialschemes but increasingly, the sector isrecognising the importance of daylighting.The slim sightlines offered by aluminiumwindows help maximise the flow of lightinto bedrooms that are often used as bothliving and study areas, with many schemesalso now incorporating aluminium framedoors and curtain walling to open upentrances and communal areas.

With the ability to create the full range ofstandard RAL colours or specific coloursfor a more bespoke solution, powder coatedaluminium frames can make a real designstatement. Dual colour options to create adifferent look for the exterior and interiorsurface of the frames are also very effective.

Durability, security and safetyHard wearing and robust, aluminiumsystems can significantly help to reducecyclical maintenance costs and with manyproducts offering guarantees of 30+ years,can also make a positive contribution tomanaging the overall life cycle costs.

The intrinsic strength of aluminiumframe windows and doors also offersincreased security and the best qualityproducts are fully compliant with theSecured by Design code.

Another key concern of this sector issafety. As the design of many accommoda-tion schemes feature multiple storeys, theuse of window restrictors can provideprotection from falls but still allowwindows to be opened for ventilation. Thisaspect can also be addressed through theinstallation of external mesh panels, used inconjunction with opening windows. Thesepanels can have bespoke, aesthetically

pleasing characteristics, bringing anotherdimension to the architectural design.

Energy-efficiency Aluminium systems can also bringadditional cost savings in terms of thermalperformance. With many new studentaccommodation schemes aspiring toachieve BREEAM targets, the specificationof low U-value glazing systems can bringsignificant benefits. In a sector whereaffordability is a key concern, the use ofthermally efficient windows and doors canalso help to reduce heating running costs.

Thermally-efficient windows can alsosignificantly reduce the risk of condensationbuild up which is a common problem inthis sector.

Early engagement and timely deliveryMany student accommodation schemes arebuilt on brownfield sites, with the betterlocations often snapped up for mainstreamresidential developments, and as such,many schemes face logistical issues.

As many projects work to tight construc-tion programmes, choosing a supplier thatcan meet deadlines and has an approvedsupply chain of installers is essential.Identifying products that lend themselves tooffsite construction techniques can be alsoextremely beneficial.

Affordability will always be a stickingpoint in the student accommodation marketand much like the students themselves,those working in this sector find themselvesfaced with a myriad of challenges such asadhering to tight budgets, deadlines andexpectations of outstanding performance.It may be a learning curve for some but thesolutions to these problems can often befound through supplier collaboration as itprovides the perfect forum for manufactur-ers to contribute specialist knowledge.

Andrew Copper is national specificationmanager with Senior Architectural Systems

Andrew Copper of Senior Architectural Systems sheds new light on the process ofwindow specification for the student accommodation sector and explains whyaluminium systems can work so well

Glazing that makes the grade 37


www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk

The importance of lighting ineducation environments should beself-evident. It is widely recognised

that good lighting positively influenceslearning, delivering better results andimpacts rate of learning.Rising energy prices and the pressure to

reduce CO2 are high on the school agenda.As schools confront current austerity andbudget limitations, it is important to under-stand that inefficient lighting can accountfor 50 to 70 per cent of the electricity bill.Making the right luminaire choices canreduce existing operating costs by as muchas 80 per cent. LED lighting can deliverhuge savings; not only does it deliver goodlighting, it also costs less to run, lasts muchlonger and requires no maintenance.However, in order for a new school to

achieve its full potential, there is more to itthan just ‘going LED’, as overall ambience,glare and functionality need to be incorpo-rated within the design.Luceco has been involved in many presti-

gious school projects. Highfield School inLetchworth for example is an impressivestate-of-the-art facility providing a superbenvironment for learning for over 1,000students. Original school buildings erectedin the 1960s have been replaced with a new£15m facility. Funding for the scheme wassecured through the Priority Schools build-ing programme which is operated by theEducation Funding Agency. The new schoolbenefits from better classrooms, communaland circulation areas and new sports andrecreational facilities.

Area-specific requirementsIt is vital that pupils’ circulation routebetween lessons is made safe and providesquick access to each destination at all timesof the year. Uniformity of light and goodluminaire choice is a key considerationwhen designing for the corridors. The use ofLED flat panels, both square and circular,prevent luminaires intruding into what can

already feel like a small space often contain-ing a large quantity of people. Emergency lighting should be approached

as a key design element. To achieve the 1.0Lux minimum requirement for escaperoutes, specific LED luminaires are able tomeet the required standards with longnarrow distribution, produced by specialoptics which allow maximum spacingbetween luminaires. Lighting designers canhelp the end user to meet their obligationfor emergency lighting with the rightproduct positioned in the right location. LED technology enables the school to be

optimised to accommodate assembly areasand the range of different indoor sportsactivities, as well as a multitude ofadditional functions within the school calen-dar. This will deliver significant cost savingscompared to the traditional alternative forsports halls – linear fluorescent with wireguards, or the high-intensity discharge lightsources now consigned to the history books. Choosing the right lighting in such spaces

can be particularly challenging as a mainhall is required to serve a variety of differentuses. Glare control and adequate illumi-nance on the vertical combined with gooduniformity are necessities in this application.LED technology is long-life – operating lifetypically four times that of traditional lightsources – minimising cost and inconvenienceof lamp maintenance.Lastly, outside space needs to be lit effec-

tively to ensure basic safety requirements aremet, especially as the outside spaces areoften utilised for a number of importantfunctions from circulation and break out torecreation and sporting activities. Lighting designers need to consider the

quality of the ‘lit effect’ and practicaldemands such as colour rendering andsuitability for CCTV, balanced with thelocation and mounting positions available inthe area to be lit.

Maria Holton is senior lighting designer at Luceco

Shedding light on ef�ciency

In order for a new schoolto achieve its full potential,there is more to it than just‘going LED’, as overallambience, glare andfunctionality need to beincorporated in the design

Maria Holton of Luceco looks at why energy efficient lighting shouldbe considered as part of the overall design process in educationalestablishments to meet the needs of flexible learning spaces

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www.luceco.uk

The education environment is one ofthe most sensitive sectors when itcomes to cleanliness – there is a duty

of care to protect young students, butequally, those students may not yet have astrong understanding of cleanliness. For thisreason, it’s vital to make sure hygienemeasures are not only as stringent as possi-ble, but easy to use too.Nearly 22 million school days are

lost every year to the common cold, andwhile adults tend to contract the cold virustwo to four times a year, the rate forchildren is much higher at six to 10. Thereasons for this are two-fold: firstly, schoolchildren tend to be more tactile with eachother, thus spreading illness and secondly,young people often lack a fully developedsense of personal hygiene.When it comes to the most high-risk

areas in an educational facility, thewashroom is top of the list. Cross-contami-nation is at the heart of this issue, withbacteria easily transferring from hand tosurface and back again when another uservisits the bathroom.Poor hand hygiene is a serious matter,

with estimates suggesting that 80 per centof infectious diseases are spread by touch.Despite this, there is a disconnect when itcomes to educating children about theimportance of hand-washing. A recentstudy found that one in five parents don’ttell children to wash their hands after usingthe toilet, and three-quarters fail to remindthem to clean their hands before eating.Therefore, the onus is often on the educa-

tion provider to teach children essentialhygiene skills, alongside maintaining a cleanand sterile washroom supported with rigor-ous infection control measures. The goodnews is that specifying or upgradingwashrooms to address these issues is easilydone, at relatively little cost.

Fundamentally, it is important to instilbehavioural change by encouraging every-one, children and staff alike, to wash theirhands regularly. Good practice also consti-tutes routine sterilisation; with a focus ondisinfecting germ-prone surfaces and

objects such as countertops, urinals, toilets,door knobs, toilet handles and faucets.Even with these measures in place there is

still room for bacteria to spread, but thiscan be avoided by the installation ofsolutions that offer hands-free operation.One example is the infrared tap range

from Bristan. This uses infrared technologyto detect human presence and switch on thewater flow, delivering the right amount ofwater when required. In this way, the non-touch mechanism alleviates the risk ofgerms spreading.Another solid recommendation is a urinal

infrared automatic flush. Working in asimilar way, the technology detects humancontact and automatically flushes theindividual urinal after use thus alleviatingthe need for human contact. Plus, the directflush removes the need for an auto-flushcistern and associated plumbing used intraditional installations, which flush allurinals intermittently.A major added bonus to using both of

these technologies; efficiency. Unlike tradi-tional setups, where taps may be left runningand cisterns may have an unnecessarily highwater demand, non-touch technology meanswater is only used as needed.A new infrared soap dispenser has been

specifically created to aid infection controlin public sector premises. In a similar veinto water-related infrared products, thedispenser spout incorporates infraredtechnology to detect human presence anddispense a user-set volume of soap, thusnegating the risk of cross-contaminationbetween hands.The average person carries around

3,000 bacteria on their hands, of over 100 different species. In an enclosedenvironment like a school, a lack of hand-washing can mean that this bacteria isspread quickly. Therefore it’s important thatspecifiers and contractors bear in mindnon-touch solutions that can drasticallyreduce the risk of contamination.

Chris Tranter is specification productmanager at Bristan

A masterclass in hygiene

CLEANLINESS80 per cent of infectious diseases are due to poorhand hygiene

With a lack of cleanliness understanding among children, Chris Tranter of Bristanexplains the importance of non-touch technology in school washrooms

When specifying for thewashroom, it’s importantthat specifiers andcontractors bear in mindthe non-touch solutionswhich can drasticallyreduce the risk ofcontamination

39


www.bristan.com

40


PROTECTION FORWALLS, DOORS and your budget

Yeoman Shield products putan end to costly re-painting

and repair.

for more information call0113 279 5854 or email

[email protected]

www.yeomanshield.com

www.wbs-ltd.co.uk

www.yeomanshield.com

41


Collaboration – the key to cost efficiencyImagine a solution, one that could satisfy an element of your project while freeing upyour client’s budget. Now imagine aCollinson built leisure facility, enter thenew state of the art sports facility at York StJohn University. Where the budget and

specification were concerned, the Challenger structure ticked all theboxes and Collinson were appointed as sub-contractor. Constructedfrom a steel framed superstructure and covered with a heavy dutyarchitectural membrane Challenger™ allows light to permeate increating a light, bright, energy efficient sporting facility.

www.collinson.co.uk

Fortis – robust exterior LED luminaries Luceco launches the Fortis family, an LEDexterior range with Wall Pack andBulkhead luminaire styles. Fortis Wall Packis stylish yet totally practical, offering anenergy efficient alternative to HID fittingswith a 45W LED luminaire being theequivalent of a 70W traditional HID

fitting, and a High Space to Height ratio providing the idea retrofitalternative to existing Wall Pack installations. With CRI>80, FortisWall Pack is ideal for CCTV areas. Variants include standard output,photocell, and emergency options.

01952 238100 www.luceco.uk

The staircase has been built within thehall of the academy, which exhibitsa modern blend of stylish interior

design glass features together with thespaciousness and open-air feeling of anoutside area.TAPER-LOC® from C.R. Laurence is the

simple way to install glass railings andbalustrades. It is 50 per cent faster to installthan traditional alternatives and as it is atotally dry glaze system there is no need forwet cement. Conforming to BS6180:2011 theproduct is completely unique because it usesa horizontal TAPER-LOC® design, whichallows the system to be adjusted, dismantledand re-set easily and efficiently. This alsomakes the TAPER-LOC® System ideal forreplacing scratched and broken panels inexisting applications. Steven Gill, of Webber Engineering –

steelwork specialists who constructed the staircase, commented: “CRL’s range of Architectural Hardware is first-rate. In

particular, their TAPER-LOC™ Systemenabled a fast and efficient installation, whichnot only makes our job easier but keeps coststo a minimum. Their products are alsobacked up with an excellent TechnicalSupport division.”To finish the project CRL’s Cap Rails were

used throughout the staircase and balconyarea, in a 51mm diameter. These premiumcap rails are manufactured by bump-formingto ensure reduced spring back. The Cap Railshave a standard wall thickness of 3.2mm andare available in diameters ranging from38.1mm to 101.6mm, as well as oval andsquare profiles in a wide range ofarchitectural finishes.For further information regarding C.R.

Laurence’s TAPER-LOC® Dry GlazeBalustrade System, or any other product fromits extensive Architectural Hardware range,please call or visit the company’s website.

01706 863 600 www.taper-loc.co.uk

ESSA Academy, Bolton chooses theTAPER-LOC® System from C.R. Laurence

ARCHITECTS DATAFILEIS INDEPENDENTLY

VERIFIED BY ABC

42


Re-energised and re-focused… Thisspring term, it isn’t just Yorkshire’spupils who have returned refreshed,

but the schools themselves. Working incollaboration with our distribution partnerVIVALDA Hull, main contractor LaingO’Rourke, sub contractor Horbury Groupand architects Atkins Global, FunderMax isproud to have played a vital role in revitalis-ing these modern buildings. Part of an extensive £150 million Priority SchoolsBuilding Program, thus far, Max Exterior hashelped to transform 3 schools with vivid andappealing new facades: Samuel ListerAcademy, Beckfoot Upper Heaton & TheDean Trust Academy. The Dean Trust Academy is the latest

addition to the line up. Exuding exactly the right image, with bold decors chosen to complement the school’s brand, this striking project boasts Max Exterior inelegant (Rubinus) red and contemporary greyshades. Yet it’s not simply thanks to itscomprehensive colour palette that theproduct was selected.VIVALDA Hull led the first design meeting

with the contractor, and based on the brief,FunderMax was quickly introduced to theconversation. ‘Durability and longevity werecentral to the requirements, something thatMax Exterior offers in abundance. The meritsalso extended to high resistance to graffiti,with the ability to use acetone directly on thefacade without causing deterioration.’

FunderMax excels under stringent testingIn addition to the qualities above,FunderMax’s HPL cladding was chosen due to its excellent performance duringtesting. Laing O'Rourke, along with architects Atkins Global, opted for MaxExterior HPL over its rivals because of how the sample panels excelled. MaxExterior showed ultimate resilience whenbombarded with solid ice balls - fired from acannon at high speed. Specifically in the ‘Hail Impact Resistance’ test - delivering an impressive ‘zero-impact’ result.

Peter Watson, Area SalesManager had this to say aboutthe selection process“Being part of VIVALDA’s core offer hasallowed our product the opportunity to reallyshine. It’s rewarding to know that MaxExterior secured the project, not simply down

to its cost-effectiveness, but because of itssuperior resistance too.”

Speedy installation thanks to pre-fabricated elements Installers, Roofdec, Rotherham, with theircompetence, attention to detail and diligence,were also pivotal to the overall success of theproject: “We’re really pleased with how The Dean Trust Academy project progressed,and everyone seems to be impressed with the end result. FunderMax was chosen for itsversatility, practicality and cost edge, but oneof the big advantages for us was that it wasalso available in four sheet sizes, allowing usto minimise waste. We were very happy withthe product and it worked exceptionally wellfor this modular/traditional blend applica-tion.” said Jon Barnes Jnr, Associate Director.

Paul Hughes, Director of SalesUK comments on the challengeswithin the education sector, andhow this particular project hashelped to change perceptions“When it comes to education architecture, all too often a compromise has to be madebetween creativity, cost effectiveness, anddependability. Yet it’s refreshing to see thatthe industry as a whole is responding withmore innovative solutions. Creativity is nolonger a ‘nice to have’, but a pre-requisite,made possible by materials such as MaxExterior and its extensive decor range.

This has been a really rewarding project,and despite the tight timelines we’ve managedto deliver - thanks to everyone’s determinedefforts. The finished academy is truly impres-sive and the feedback has been excellent.”If you’d like to find out more about the

project, or our Max Exterior Cladding, pleaseget in touch: [email protected].

07852 867472 www.fundermax.at/en

FunderMax more than makes the grade

PROJECT DETAILS

Project: Yorkshire Schools ProgrammeBrief: A HPL solution that would/t the speci/ed budget, but alsolast the test of time Challenges: Limited on-sitespace meant reliance on accurateoff-site fabricationArchitect: Atkins GlobalMaterial: FunderMax Max ExteriorMain Contractor: Laing O’RourkeDistributor: VIVALDAFixing system: Bracket and rail –Nvelope

Samuel Lister Academy Beckfoot Upper Heaton

The Dean Trust Academy

43


ALUCOBOND®, manufactured by 3AComposites, brings a superior metalpanel image to any project.

ALUCOBOND®, known for its lightweightqualities, also has other desirable attributessuch as a vast spectrum of consistent colorand finish options, the ability to form texturesor curves or the option to create modules.When you need to present an exceptionallyflat, high-tech metal panel image,ALUCOBOND® allows you the ease of mindthat you have chosen the proven leader.The Aberdeen, Scotland headquarters for

Norwegian energy company Statoil utilizesthe profound luster of ALUCOBOND®’snaturAL Copper finish. The oil and gasproduction company operates in 37 countriesaround the world and their recentlycompleted headquarters houses theirdevelopment and production activities in theUK and IrelandStatoil explains that their new

headquarters creates collective spaces for thecompany’s 200 employees. The operationrooms are equipped with technology andcollaborative tools for connectivity. They alsoutilize this technology to focus on their “…key issues; such as safety, environment,operations and asset integrity.”The architects at Halliday Fraser Munro

worked closely with UK fabricator, Sotech Optima, to create the impressiveexterior façade. The contracted windowsillpanels create a three-dimensional effectagainst the remaining distending ACM. Thisfabrication technique creates an interestingprismatic effect where the panels change hue based on natural light and focal point, adding a new dimension to the facade.

Rustic metal was a purposeful choice ofbuilding material for a company focused onutilizing natural resources.The new 60,000sq/ft building features both

Sotech’s Secret Fix FC attachment system andtheir Through Fix Cassette (TFC) RainscreenSystem. Sotech explains, “The Sotech OptimaFC system was selected for the project due tothe precise coordination between panel andsubstructure that presents a pristineappearance without the use of visible fixings.TFC was also selected as accurate installationis both simple and speedy.”Sotech praises the naturAL series as, “…a

subtle rapprochement to real metals withoutits inconvenience creating a refined metalliclook.” The surface structure ofALUCOBOND® ’s naturAL line brings aboutinterplay between metallic shine and thereflection and absorption of light.The project, which was built under

specifications of Civil Engineering CompanySir Robert McAlpine and the developers atDrum Property Group, is located inKingswells’ Prime Four Business Park.According to Aberdeen City Council’s headof planning, Dr. Margaret Bochel, “The highquality of design and materials proposedwould fit well into the setting of thebusiness park when taking into accountthe other development which is underwayand proposed.”

Paul Herbert, Specification Manager:07584 680263Richard Geater, Sales Manager:07584 680262Richard Clough, Business DevelopmentManager:07760 884369

www.alucobond.com

ALUCOBOND® naturAL Copper createsundeniable luster on UK headquarters

STATOIL HEADQUARTERS,KINGSWELLS’ PRIME FOURBUSINESS PARK, ABERDEEN

Facade Material: ALUCOBOND®

plus naturAL CopperConstruction Type: Cassette onboltsPlanning (Architect): HallidayFraser Munro – Chartered Architects – Planning ConsultantsFabricator/Installer: Sotech OptimaYear of construction: 2016Copyright pictures: Sotech Optima

44


The new building of North ChaddertonSchool, Oldham was built in 2013providing facilities for up to 1500no.

students aged between 11 & 18 years.Built without the provision of wall

protection to the school’s interior walls,Facilities Manager William Wheatcroft soonnoticed that the plastered, white walls, weresuffering marking and superficial damagedetrimental to maintaining the school’shigh standards.

“We needed a permanent solution to ourproblem of continually re-decorating andcleaning the walls along corridors andcongregational areas of the school – whichwas proving to be a drain on the maintenancebudgets.” Explained Mr Wheatcroft.

Yeoman Shield, manufacturers andinstallers of wall & door protection products,were called in to survey areas in the schoolmost needing wall protection, where it wasdecided that 2.0mm thick FalmouthEx

protection panels would be the answer tostopping the continual damage. The work

was to be phased over time as and whenbudgets became available.

The first area to be fitted with YeomanShield FalmouthEx protection panels at1250mm high, in white, were the diningroom, boys WC on the ground, 1st & 2ndfloors, reception exit area and along the flatto raking wall of the Assembly Hall Stage.

Other areas which have received the sametreatment over the past 2 of years haveincluded, staircases, refuse points, sports exitlobby, performing arts and music centre alongwith staff changing facilities.

“There has definitely been a markeddifference in the time spent re decorating andsorting out wall damage which I am sure isresulting in a year on year saving in ourmaintenance budgets. Our cleaning teamhave also commented that the wall protectionpanels are certainly easier to wipe down thanthe painted wall finish.

“We are very happy with the finishedproducts and the workmanship supplied byYeoman Shield over the years and we will becontinuing with the roll out of the wallprotection programme in the future.”Concluded Mr Wheatcroft.

For more information on how YeomanShield wall and door protection productscan save on maintenance budgets, call or visitthe website.

0113 279 5854 www.yeomanshield.com

Yeoman Shield help to maintain standards atOldham School

45


GEZE UK is giving students a superwelcome at one of Europe’s newest super colleges – the £228

million City of Glasgow College in the heartof Glasgow.

The technical and professional skillscollege, which has been created on two sites,one either side of the River Clyde – CityCampus and Riverside – has been called a‘college of the future’. It aims to preparestudents for the world of work with industrystandard and state-of-the art facilities.

Contractor Sir Robert McAlpine, choseGEZE products to create the entrances tomatch that at City Campus. The cutting-edge, contemporary building with almost1000 learning spaces, needed to incorporatea statement entrance, but also havepracticalities and safety in mind.

The west and south elevations have asimilar aesthetic with imposing glass and steelframed facades into which manual revolvingdoors have been installed along withautomated swing doors to one side.

The college has been built to accommodate

40,000 students and 1300 staff, sofunctionality was key to ensure a steady flowof traffic across the threshold. The TSA 325NT manual revolving doors are spacious yeteasy to operate. They include a control systemwhich ensures that those using the doorcannot be forced to speed up by a someoneentering the door behind them

The TSA 325 NT also provides an effectivedraught-free lobby, keeping noise, dirt anddust out of the building.

The Slimdrive EMD-F electro-mechanicalswing doors fitted next to the revolving doorsare extremely versatile. They provide easy

access for those with mobility issues asassisted opening can be initiated using theoperating button with guaranteed constantopening and closing speed.

At just 7cm high, the Slimdrive EMD-Foperator is extremely discreet and sits neatly on the frame. It is a low-wear,hi-performance system which is exceptionallyquiet in operation.

At Riverside, the RIBA Sterling prizenominated campus incorporates a SlimdriveSL NT single sliding automatic door onthe entrance to a 198-bed studentaccommodation block which is home to morethan 3,000 marine and engineering students.

The Slimdrive SL NT blends seamlesslyinto the entrance of the contemporarypillared frontage. With an operator height ofjust 7cm – it is almost invisible and can moveleaf weights of up to 125kg, making it idealfor public buildings with high levels offootfall and a continuous flow of peoplemoving in various directions.

01543 443000 www.geze.co.uk

Helping create the future of learning

Door closer assures safer schoolsUK designed and manufactured, Powermatic controlled, concealeddoor closers from Samuel Heath deliver a host of benefits foreducational learning and accommodation buildings.

Meeting all relevant fire performance and accessibility requirements,Powermatic door closers also help to create safer buildings and reducemaintenance costs.

Being totally invisible when the door is closed and having few partson show when the door is open, Powermatic is less likely to bevandalised than surface-mounted devices. This reduces the risk of afire door being rendered inactive by a damaged door closer and meansthat maintenance or repair costs are minimised.

0121 766 4200 www.concealeddoorclosers.com

www.buildingadditions.co.uk

46


The second phase of the Priority SchoolBuilding Programme (PSBP2) presentsa major opportunity for offsite

construction to play a crucial role to helpmeet the challenging targets. One of the mostfrequently cited benefits of offsite construc-tion is speed of delivery, with the timerequired to construct and commission anoffsite building being typically reduced by50 – 60 per cent in cases where large elementscan be prefabricated. Our robust High BayWalling systems can be used internally toprovide single span stud walls up to 10m highproviding an ideal solution for projects suchas school sports halls and auditoriums.

I see volumetric modular systems playingan even greater role in PSBP2, this phaserepresents one of the biggest opportunities formodular construction in the market. Thecombination of accelerated handover timescombined with reducing repair and mainte-

nance costs throughout the lifecycle of thebuilding, are two major financial advantagesto offsite construction which are particularlyimportant to the education sector.

Our approach to design and valueengineering is inclusive - working side-by-sidewith our clients and their designers to create a complete solution incorporatingdesign with structural calculations. Steeloffers architects’ greater versatility than otherbuilding solutions, particularly in terms ofcost. Productivity advances have beenachieved throughout the steel supply-chain

and such cost saving benefits can be sharedwith contractors.

The manufacture of steel in factorycontrolled conditions enhances buildprogrammes and eradicates the risk of onsitevariability. As an advanced high performanceoffsite solution, steel is not susceptible toshrinkage, warping, cracking, rot infestationor moisture absorption. Steel is a robust, rigidand dimensionally stable material that doesnot suffer from movement created bymoisture related issues and is perfectlypositioned to meet demands of the PrioritySchool Building Programme – it is futureproof and future ready.

To find out more about EOS Facades’ andmeet the team, come along to Explore OffsiteEducation taking place on 11 July 2017 atAltitude, Westminster, London.

01325 303030 www.eos-facades.co.uk

The Optimum Education SolutionLight steel framing is used in offsite construction for a wide range of building types and can be developed in the form of panelised orvolumetric modular systems. Steve Thompson, MD of EOS Facades – specialists in the design, manufacture and supply of a wide range ofsteel section solutions - shares his views on why offsite manufacture is vital to the education sector

REHAU top of the glass for school installationsREHAU PVC-U windows have been specified for three schools, as its efficient, secure and easy to fit profilesare top of the class for the education sector. The REHAU TOTAL70c window system was recommended forthe installations at the Harris Primary Academy Shortlands (Bromley, Kent), Harris Primary Academy ChaffordHundred (Grays, Essex) and Harris Primary Academy East Dulwich (London) schools by contractor SEH Commercial. The specification for the schools centred on key areas; ventilation, thermal insulation, soundinsulation and security, major considerations for schools in order to create an optimum learning environmentfor pupils. To achieve the brief the windows had top hung outward opening casements and incorporated glazedlouvres for ventilation to the classrooms. Harris Academy were keen to ensure its state-of-the-art schools werevisually appealing for its staff and students, and the window design vision contributed to achieving a contemporary look for each of the academies whilst allowing the maximum amount of light in for a naturallylit school space. The Harris Primary Academy Shortlands in particular opted for dual colour windows.

01989 762600 www.rehau.uk/windows

Energy efficient, low maintenance student accommodation for Highlands UniversitySome of the highest performing technically advanced thermal membrane products have been supplied by theA. Proctor Group Ltd for a new build student accommodation project in the Scottish highlands. The projectconsists of a 40-bed student accommodation development in the Sutherland village of Dornoch, and is part ofa wider programme by the University of the Highlands & Islands (UHI). A key factor in the design was ensuringthat the materials chosen required little or no maintenance, and that the building continues to enhance itssetting over the course of its lifetime. The buildings were constructed using Val-U-Therm® a unique closedpanel, factory insulated timber frame system with class leading thermal performance. The Val-U-Therm® wall,roof and floor systems in combination with the high performance breather membranes from the A. ProctorGroup give the finished structure outstanding thermal efficiency. Roofshield pitched roof underlay, was chosenfor the roof because it has an extremely high degree of vapour permeability, as well as air permeability, so willstill perform in conditions in which air tight alternatives will not.

01250 872261 www.proctorgroup.com

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Selectaglaze’s expertise has assisted increating more comfortable workingspaces in a former chapel and a former

outpatients building for Oxford University.The University called on Selectaglaze to

support the renovations of St Luke’s Chapeland the former outpatient building on theRadcliffe Observatory Quarter site. Bothbuildings directly face each other across acourtyard, and are Grade II Listed; the chapeldating from 1865 and outpatients from 1913.

As is a regular occurrence with older build-ings, both suffered from substantial heat lossdue to the inefficient original glazing. As theoriginal windows were to be kept, theUniversity sought advice from Selectaglaze,the specialist in the design manufacture andinstallation of secondary glazing, to helpresolve the issues.

Selectaglaze subsequently installed 82 unitsacross the two buildings using an array ofproducts from its range to meet the requiredspecification. In the chapel the stunning

gothic arched windows posed an interestingchallenge to Selectaglaze, as the planningauthorities were particularly keen to ensurethe aesthetic impact of the secondary glazingwas kept to a minimum. Selectaglaze collab-orated with the architects and designedsolutions that would work with all thevarious styles.

Low emissivity glass was used in both ofthe buildings which in combination with theprimary window achieves a U-value of 1.8,reducing heat loss by approximately 60 percent. As secondary glazing is used in combi-nation with a wide variety of primarywindows, U-values are calculated usingmodelling software. In addition, the applica-tion of secondary glazing achieved a reduc-tion in noise egress and ingress. Acousticlaminate glass will show further improve-ments particularly at higher frequencies as itprovides further dampening. Ideally thesecondary glazing should have a differentthickness of glass to the primary window toavoid sympathetic resonance which willincrease noise transmission.

Selectaglaze has been established for 50years, and in that time gained extensiveexperience with working on all building types.Email [email protected] for more.

01727 837271 www.selectaglaze.co.uk

Specialist secondary glazing company provides solutions to historic buildings

Passivent CPD covers changes to BB101 in schoolsFor specifiers involved in the design of school buildings, natural ventilation specialist Passivent offers a freeCPD seminar covering the imminent changes to the Department for Education’s Building Bulletin BB101. Thenew ‘Guidelines on ventilation, thermal comfort and indoor air quality in schools’ will see a number of keychanges to the way air quality and thermal comfort are managed within school buildings. The new documentwill replace the current 2006 edition and will have a significant impact on ventilation design strategies and system choices. As a member of the BB101 advisory group, Passivent is ideally placed to provide guidance onthe changes and how to achieve future compliance. Its recently updated CPD entitled ‘Natural Ventilation inSchools & Commercial Buildings’ will include the key changes to BB101 and provide advice on the range ofventilation strategies available to enable specifiers to determine the correct strategy at the early design stageof a project. The CPD will also explain the association between BB101 and relevant Building Regulations aswell as the importance of computational modelling to ensure a robust ventilation strategy.

01732 850 770 www.passivent.com/cpd

Practical plumbing for 21st century schoolsGeberit has provided a total plumbing solution at Gwenfro Primary School in Wrexham, which has undergonea £4.9 million makeover funded by the Welsh Government's 21st Century Schools and Education Programme.Upgraded from an existing 1950s school, the new Gwenfro school amalgamates juniors and infants, creatingstate-of-the-art facilities for its pupils. BREEAM rated ‘Excellent', Gwenfro has been constructed in a highlysustainable way, including ‘fabric first' design, good use of natural daylight and ventilation, plus solarphotovoltaic panels to provide electricity. Twyford products installed include an air button dual flush concealedcistern, helping to save water. In addition, Twyford E100 round basins incorporating Sola non concussive tapswere chosen. Apart from Twyford, all plumbing comes courtesy of Geberit Mepla multi-layered pipe, whichcombines the advantages of synthetic and metallic materials. Corrosion-resistant and light, Geberit Mepla ismore inherently stable and durable than plastic pipes. Enabling fast work progress and subsequent economicadvantages Geberit Mepla also ensures peace of mind as it is permanently leak proof.

01926 516800 www.geberit.co.uk

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Celotex for Sunderland UniversityThe project involved the refurbishment of aGrade II listed building and part new-build.After careful consideration, Teams Roofingspecified 11-12 vertical metres of Celotex’insulation board FR5000, primarily due to its

lambda of 0.021 W/mK and impressive U-Value calculation comparedto typical insulation boards. The innovative product, manufacturedfrom rigid polyisocyanurate (PIR), prevents moisture build-up andwould successfully future-proof the energy performance of therefurbished building. For a comprehensive range of specification tools,e-learning video tutorials and more, please visit the website.

01473 822093 www.celotex.co.uk/members

Fixing the complex facadeAncon designed and manufactured thecomplex stainless steel brick support andrestraint system behind the facade of theaward-winning London School ofEconomics Saw Swee Hock Student Centre.The Ancon stainless steel system comprisesspecial inclined MDC type brick support

angles fixed back to 30/20 cast-in channels, and bespoke rolled hollowsection Windposts, featuring surface-fixed channels to accept wall ties.This project demonstrates Ancon’s ability to engineer an innovative,practical and cost-effective fixing solution for any brick feature.

0114 275 5224 www.ancon.co.uk

There’s a degree of distinction aboutSwansea University’s new studentaccommodation where GEZE UK is

helping open doors to a new way of living ona campus by the sea.

The Bay Campus, developed by St.Modwen in partnership with SwanseaUniversity, has been designed to promote a‘friendly and collegiate feel’ and foster a senseof community which flows through thedesign of 900 apartments.

They have been created in 11 blocks, inclusters of four to 11 bedrooms, each withreception, common room and kitchen and arebuilt around a courtyard, plus the Towerwhich is a combination of residential, officeand management areas. Further phasesof student apartments are now underconstruction and will open in September2017, taking the total number to 2,000.

Anyone who has lived ‘in halls’ will knowthat the comings and goings of student lifecan be a little noisy which is why GEZE’sSlimdrive EMD-F electro-mechanical swingdoor operator was specified for the 10external main entrances.

It eliminates the possibility of bangingdoors in the wee small hours as the SlimdriveEMD-F is virtually silent in operation and hasthe capacity to move large and heavy, singleleaf doors with ease. Its durability also meansthat it’s a low-maintenance solution for areasof heavy footfall and its slimline design - theSlimdrive EMD-F operator is just 7cm high –means that it is extremely discreet.

Inside, more than 2000 TS 2000 NVmanual overhead closers have been fitted tostudent rooms, corridors, and communalareas, while eight TS 4000 closers werechosen for some of the external doors.

The TS 2000 NV was the ideal choice forthe accommodation blocks as it features anover pressurisation valve which protects theinternal workings of the unit from damage. Itis also highly efficient and has a fullyadjustable closing speed, hydraulic latchingaction and adjustable closing force, making iteasier to conform to the requirements ofApproved Document M and BS 8300.

The TS 4000 was chosen for the largerdoors, particularly external swing doorswhich may have to battle with the elements.

The adjustable power 1-6 makes the unit agreat solution for heavier door leaves,particularly those which may need to beopened in windy conditions by the sea as theyare suitable for doors from 750 – 1400mmwide and are also fitted with an adjustablebackcheck as standard.

Lock-Tech carried out the supply andinstallation of the Slimdrive EMD-Foperators and the supply of the TS 2000 NV& TS 4000 closers working closely withVINCI Construction and their sub-contractors. The company attended severalsite meetings to refine the ironmongeryschedules to suit the client’s needs.

01543 443000 www.geze.co.uk

GEZE’S degree of distinction

Forbo’s new Sphera Energetic adds colour to the curriculumForbo Flooring Systems has launched Sphera Energetic, its second homogeneous vinyl collection rangeproduced in a new state-of-the-art production facility. Reflecting the latest education trend colours, and withlow emissions and high LRVs, the new phthalate-free collection will contribute towards a stimulating, yethealthy indoor environment for any educational establishment. Forbo’s Sphera Energetic is a bold, excitingnew range that challenges traditional flooring design in the education sector. End users are presented with afresh and playful colour proposition consisting of 52 shades: 41 ‘flecked’ colours alongside 11 complementary‘vivid’ hues, which feature corresponding highlight chips to create an integrated flooring solution. Ideal forzoning and way-finding through corridors, the colour palette has been designed with tint combinations thatwill create standout, inspiring flooring schemes. Janet Lowe, Head of Marketing UK and Ireland commented:“The new Sphera Energetic range delivers an exciting proposition for educational design: a stylish and contem-porary yet wholly practical flooring solution.”

www.forbo-flooring.co.uk/spheraenergetic

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School chooses Stelrad PlanarsNower Hill High School in Harrow recentlyunderwent a major heating system upgrade thatsaw Stelrad radiators installed throughout theschool buildings. The work saw the installationof the full range of Stelrad Planar flat fronteddesigner radiators – standard horizontal and

vertical Planars, and Heavy Duty Planars for parts of the school wherethe radiators would need to stand up to the knocks and bumps thata busy school might dish out. Full details of the Heavy Duty Planarand the wider Planar range can be found at Stelrad’s website. You canalso see regular updates from Stelrad on Twitter and Facebook.

0870 849 8056 www.stelrad.com

A flexible external flooring solutionLevato Mono Porcelain paver system fromThe Deck Tile Co. Ltd is a flexible externalflooring solution for the design conscious. Thesystem enables fast, cost effective installationover most surfaces including; single plymembranes, roofing felt and other delicatewaterproofing systems. The porcelain pavers

are also available in larger formats, are highly abrasion and stainresistant, fire and frost proof and achieve R11 slip resistance. Withall it’s features such as height adjustable and slope correcting supports,high load bearing and only 45kgs per m2, over 40 finishes available.

0118 391 4120 www.thedecktileco.co.uk

Metal Technology supplied acomprehensive suite of architec-tural aluminium systems which

complemented the creation of a futuristiclook to the world class educational facility for Ayrshire College, Kilmarnock.

The design places two legs of teachingaccommodation around a central atrium,creating a mature, open series of intercon-nected spaces. Working with main contractorMcLaughlin & Harvey and the project design team, Metal Technology supplied two variants of its System 17 Curtain Walling (capped and silicone pointed) allowing light filled spaces to become a real feature of this project.

System 10 commercial doors were used in the main thoroughfares with System 5-20D Hi+ doors and 4-20Hi+ casementwindows from the [thermal] range usedextensively throughout the building. These systems feature bespoke gaskets, cellular foams and polyamide thermal

isolators, delivering impressively low U values.

Developed with an ethos of sustainability,the exceptional structural, thermal, acousticand security performance of the MetalTechnology systems used also contributed tothe Colleges BREEAM Excellent rating,

as well as the building’s Secured by Designstatus.

The £53 million campus was built on theformer Diageo site and will be used by 5,000students each year.

028 9448 7777 www.metaltechnology.com

Ayrshire College gets the Metal Technologylesson in excellence

Formica brings a vibrant identity to a school with energy efficient rainscreen claddingWhen Ellis Williams Architects (EWA) were appointed to undertake the design of Barrow Hall Primary School,they consulted with the school and local authorities to develop a design that avoided the pitfalls of existingbuilding stock. With consideration to occupant comfort and energy efficiencies, EWA specified VIVIX® byFormica Group for the rainscreen cladding. The application of VIVIX panels to the exterior helped meet thebrief for the build to incorporate minimal mechanical ventilation; while also establishing a distinctive aestheticcharacter for the school buildings. The former Barrow Hall Primary School occupied buildings which wereconsidered by the Council to be in poor condition. For the new build it was imperative that consideration begiven to good design that limits future maintenance costs. The durable properties of VIVIX panels offers arainscreen cladding solution that is easy to clean and one that will maintain its aesthetic regardless of weatherconditions or exposure to UV rays. Should the material need to be replaced, its lightweight nature and ease ofapplication means less disruption to the running of the school.

0191 259 3512 www.formica.com

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School hall keep its traditional lookWood effect luxury vinyl tiles fromPolyflor’s Expona Design PUR collectionwere the perfect choice of flooringfor a school hall refurbishment projectat Erskine Stewart’s Melville Schoolsin Edinburgh. 315m² of Expona DesignPUR luxury vinyl tiles in the Walnut design

were installed by Forever Flooring of Broxburn at the independentschool for girls. The school hall needed to be refurbished, and asExpona Design flooring was performing well elsewhere in the school,the same luxury vinyl tile range was selected for this space.

0161 767 1111 www.polyflor.com

Flame-free sustainable roof refurbConyers School in Stockton-on-Tees hasbenefitted from an extensive roofing refurbish-ment using 3,000m2 IKO Mach One, whichguarantees reliable waterproofing and protec-tion for at least 20 years. Project managementconsultancy Faithful+Gould asked IKO PLC to

carry out a comprehensive survey for the academy, which includedguidance on the overall project. The single layer, bituminousmembrane IKO Mach One was recommended as a flame-free, sustain-able and fast-fit system. The project also included an enhanced insula-tion scheme with new modular and structural mono-pitch roof lights.

01257 255 771 www.ikogroup.co.uk

Bickley Park specifies Jacksons FencingJacksons Fencing was commissioned tosupply and install security fencing aroundtwo perimeters at Bickley Park School, aselective, independent preparatory day schoolfor boys located in South East London.Jacksons Anti Trap Bow Top fencing wasinstalled around the nursery site perimeter to

provide a visible layer of security that was aesthetically pleasing tothe eye and sensitively fitted to lessen the impact on the area’s mainoccupants; very young children, as well as to complement thesurrounding natural habitat.

0800 408 2236 www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk

Good posture and exceptional comfortKI’s iconic Postura+ chair was the first one-piece polypropylene chairintroduced to the UK education marketin 1996. It is ergonomically designed topromote good posture and provideexceptional comfort. Made in the UKfrom recyclable high impact-resistant

polypropylene, Postura+ is available in 16 standard colours andrecently extended its warranty from 10 to 20 years. Durable, comfort-able, practical and offers excellent value for money, the Postura+continues to be the chair of choice for students of all ages.

020 7405 7082 www.kieurope.com

Knauf AMF is the educated choiceHaving undergone a refurbishmentprogramme to improve the buildinginterior, Joseph Swan Academy inGateshead has been transformed intoan eco-friendly school. Knauf AMFTHERMATEX® ceilings were installedthroughout, offering bespoke solutions to

help reduce the school’s energy consumption, provide durability andacoustic control in areas with differing requirements. The AMFTHERMATEX® ceiling range offers 88 per cent light reflectance andfull light diffusion which maximises the use of natural daylight.

0191 518 8600 www.amfceilings.co.uk

Pland supplies University LaboratoriesUK stainless steel manufacturer, Pland Stainless,has supplied 50 new sinks for the refurbishedLabs in the STEM department at John MooresLiverpool University. The refurbishment, catersfor 4000 undergraduates and has vastlyimproved the facilities for the university, now

reflecting the commercial environments the students will work inupon completion of their degrees. Stainless steel is an ideal materialfor use in laboratories and Pland Stainless supplied a number of differ-ent sized sink models to the project. All of the sinks produced in 316grade stainless steel for improved acid and corrosion resistance.

0113 263 4184 www.plandstainless.co.uk

Safety stems success with AllgoodAllgood ironmongery and doorsets are helpingto provide fire safety at the new state of theart science, technology, engineering and maths(STEM) facilities at Kingston University,London. As with any science laboratory, theconsideration of safety was of paramount

importance. Allgood supplied 15 doorsets with traditional exposedlippings. The exposed lippings provide extra protection to the doorfaces and ensure they can be easily repaired and replaced if necessary.Alite levers, latches, surface maglocks and hinges were also installed,providing the laboratories with fire protection for up to 30 minutes.

020 7387 9951 www.allgood.co.uk

Folding partition and movable wallsBuilding Additions are a specialist foldingpartition and movable wall company basedin the UK that offer a complete one stopservice from initial design of your bespokesliding partitions or operable wall systems,through manufacture and installation of theindividual units and a full after care service.

Building Additions folding partitions and movable walls come in awide range of finishes with different acoustic properties. They can betailored to suit almost any space providing a quality solution tomaximising the use of space within any commercial building.

01373 454577 www.buildingadditions.co.uk

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Providing value & sustained partnershipsYou know the old adage “you get what youpay for.” Well, Fordingbridge live andbreathe by this. During their 50 years inbusiness, Fordingbridge have built andmaintained many relationships working withcontractors across all sectors. Fordingbridgeconsistently deliver successful canopy and

walkway solutions for architects and specifiers utilising our in-houseexpertise. Whether collaborating with architects to turn a vision intoreality or offering complete design, our specialist design and buildteam are on-hand to make your next project a success.

01243 55 44 55 www.fordingbridge.co.uk

Magnx range offers complete flexibilityThe MagnX® magnetic glass rangefrom Gx Glass is now available withcustomised back painting and bespokeprinted designs providing architectsand interior designers with completeflexibility. In addition, the MagnX-CFfeatures a new fixing system, allowing

the magnetic glass to be quickly installed and easily relocated.A robust and modern alternative to a traditional whiteboard, theMagnX range comprises glass magnetic whiteboards that enabledocuments to be ‘pinned’ to the board using magnets.

01233 642 220 www.gxglass.com

BAL helps mosaic artist transform hallBAL have helped mosaic artist Tamara Froudtransform a primary school dining hall with installations designed by pupils andtaking inspiration from the school’s values. A fixing solution of BAL adhesive and grout provided Tamara with the perfect materials topermanently fix ornate Cinca ceramic mosaics

to a six-sided, T-shaped concrete pillar at Richard Alibon PrimarySchool in Dagenham, Essex. Tamara was commissioned by the schoolto work with pupils to create designs based on the school’s values ofconfidence, perseverance, ambition, curiosity, respect and happiness.

01782 591100 www.bal-adhesives.com

Hunter Douglas expertise add upWhen a university mathematics building wasdesigned with a complex, intricate ceiling,Hunter Douglas was specified for the project.They supplied 600m2 of solid wood grill forthe reception and atrium of the University of

Kent’s new £26 million Sibson Building. Hunter Douglas providedclass O, Forest Stewardship Council approved ayous wood, white-washed panels, 20mm x 80mm slats with 50mm gap, and black fleece.The complexity of the design came in the orientation of the panels at45˚, which meant the installation team had to cut all the perimeterpanels on site so that the changing angles could be fitted perfectly.

01604 766251 www.hunterdouglas.co.uk

Teamwork helps deliver roofing solutionsPremium quality student accommodation is beingdelivered up and down the UK, through teamworkbetween Torsion Group, Roofdec and Protan.Torsion’s two most recent projects will togetherdeliver over 260 student bedrooms in the redevel-opment of two brownfield former sites in Readingand Newcastle. Both roofing schemes are being

installed by Roofdec – Reading features Protan SE1.8mm single plymembrane, mechanically-fixed over PIR insulation, and Protan PEVCL; the Newcastle scheme in addition uses 100m2 green roof,constructed using Protan G membrane, prefabricated.

01925 658001 www.protan.co.uk

Senior’s study in efficiencyTwo of Senior Architectural System’s mostinnovative and thermally efficient glazingsolutions have been specified for a newhigh school in Reading, helping tomaximise the sense of light and spacewhilst reducing the environmental impactof the building. The new Reading Girls’

School in Berkshire features Senior’s patented low U-value PURe®

aluminium casement windows throughout the two three-storey highteaching blocks, with the company’s thermally enhanced SF52 curtainwalling used to create the school’s main entrance area and atrium.

www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk

Nothing to be a-frayed of!Heckmondwike FB, one of the UK’sleading manufacturers of fibre bondedcarpet, has reported an increase in demandfor its renowned heavy duty Supacordrange for use in educational environments.Like all Heckmondwike FB’s carpet,Supacord has anti-static and anti-slip

properties, it also offers low maintenance. Great thermal performanceis another property attributed to Supacord, which is warm andcomfortable underfoot. Schools like the fact that Supacord is availablein all primary colours to match their branding or classroom themes.

01924 406161 www.heckmondwike-fb.co.uk

University protects students with AicoHarper Adams University in Shropshire hasinstalled Aico’s 160e Series of mainspowered Smoke Alarms into its studentaccommodation in a move to increase levelsof protection for students. The Universitywanted to increase the level of protection,but without the considerable expense of

moving to an LD1 system. The solution was found in the use of Aico’sEi160e Series mains powered alarms with 10 year rechargeableLithium cell back-up with Ei164e Heat Alarms fitted in the kitchensand Ei166e Optical Alarms in the bedrooms.

[email protected]

collinson.co.uk T: 01995 606 451

Working together to make sport happen

Incorporate a Collinson tensile facility into a larger sports facility project, optimise the budget and design a multi structure combination

• Create a light, bright sports environment• Choose from a range of structures• Cost efficient, sustainable space

great places to play sport

How to optimise your Clients Budget

www.collinson.co.uk

BUILDING FOR EDUCATION & adf STUDENT ......Building for education & student accommodation supplement...

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