FCA November 2013

Issue 45November 13

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Building Information Modelling

Industry specialists consider the evolution and future of BIM

Design & DesireHotel’s treetop retreat offers guests round the clock luxury

Retail Build FocusRevive the high street with facilities tailored to community needs

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EditorHannah [email protected] 232702Managing DirectorSam [email protected] 232702Publication ManagerSteve Gull [email protected] ExecutiveTom [email protected] ManagerChris [email protected]/Sub-editorBen [email protected] [email protected] and Conditons:Contributions are invited and when not accepted will be returned only if accompanied by a fully stamped and return addressed envelope. No responsibility will be taken for drawings, photographs or literary contributions during transmission or in the editors hands. In the absence of an agreement the copyright of all contributions, literary, photographics or artistic belongs to Mixed Media Information Ltd. The Publisher accepts no responsibility in respect of advertisements appearing in the magazine and the opinions expressed in editorial material or otherwise do not necessarily represent the view of the publisher. The Publisher does not accept any liability of any loss arising from the late appearance or non publication of any advertisement.

Mixed Media InformationBarham Court, Teston, Maidstone, Kent, ME18 5BZTel: 01622 232702, Fax: 01622 320020www.fca-magazine.comwww.mixedmediainfo.com

Wicona looks at how a bespoke facade solution has helped to create a striking landmark headquarters for a high-tech business in Germany’s Black Forest. See pg 11.

Front cover:

Welcome to Future Constructor & Architect...

Magazine November 2013

T he high street and in-town shopping centres are fundamental to our society, yet over the last decade the landscape of retail has shifted dramatically towards online retailing, and industrial developments offering larger outlets and convenience. The Government’s inquiry into the future of the high street has included expert industry figures such as

retail guru Mary Portas, who, in 2011, was commissioned to analyse the problems facing the high street and as a result, issue a set of recommendations.

As anticipated, the report received widespread media attention and varied responses, but as more tackle the subject, agreement is on one pivotal point – that the high street needs saving.

In this issue, FC&A considers the retail industry from a design perspective and invites architect practice Child Graddon Lewis to share its recent study on ‘in town’ shopping centres, where by taking a holistic approach to secondary shopping centres, there is huge potential for change. Turn to page 34 to find out more.

Elsewhere, we bring you this year’s last BIM forum – with a timely focus on the future. We asked a number of industry specialists where they see the future of BIM, how the collaboration will evolve and how might BIM affect the relationships of those working within the model. Turn to page 22 to read some interesting responses.

I hope you enjoy this issue. If you wish to comment on any of the focus areas in this month’s issue, then please do not hesitate to get in touch at the usual address. Alternatively you can always interact with FC&A via Facebook (www.facebook.com/fcamagazine) or Twitter (@FCAMagazine).

Hannah Frackiewicz Editor, Future Constructor & Architect

Hannah Frackiewicz

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Editorial Comment

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• Invisible installation with a maximal respect for the architecture

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THE AWARD WINNINGD LINE RAILING SYSTEM.

d line stands for first-class design, excellent quality, exceptional functionality and safety. The system blends in seamlessly with its modular nature and without compromise, even in the most demanding architectural projects. 3 different d line systems guarantee you total flexibility. Discover your creative freedom at: www.q-designs.com.

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Portfolios06 Greenhouse:

The UK’s first fully solar-powered house has been completed in Leicestershire, exceeding the Government’s 2016 zero carbon target using a unique combination of existing technologies.

11 Sustainability in Development: Testo’s new headquarters in Germany’s Black Forest is setting new standards in terms of its architectural design and technical execution thanks to a bespoke facade solution.

28 Design & Desire: A reliable hot water system offers guests round the clock luxury in treetop suites, as part of a five-star Chewton Glen country house hotel complex in the New Forest National Park.

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News14 Voice of the Industry:

Tony Walker, Technical Manager – Specification at Johnstone’s, looks at how the development of flame retardant coatings is increasingly helping building owners meet ever-changing legislation.

24 Legal & Business: Helen Beck, Research Manager at UK Commission for Employment and Skills identifies what is stopping the industry from capitalising on the innovative offsite approach.

Features22 Building Information Modeling:

FC&A asked a number of specialists where they see the future of BIM and how they envisage industry collaborations to evolve within the model.

26 Timber: James Jones explores how carbon footprints are calculated and how they can help designers make informed decisions on product specification.

32 Glass & Glazing: How can you maximise the benefits of daylight while controlling unwanted solar heat gain? An unconventional glazing system can tick all the boxes.

34 Retail Build Focus: Child Graddon Lewis (CGL) unveils the findings from its study of ‘in town’ shopping centres to identify the most effective ways of bringing them back to life.

36 Renewable Energy: CA Group demonstrates how more companies are adopting active solar technologies as an integral part of their sustainable building strategies.

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d line 2 point fixing Victoria House, Bloomsbury Square.

The Solar House uses an innovative combination of existing sustainable technologies to collect and store solar energy for use throughout

the year. Built as an exemplar project, it is expected that the Solar House will demonstrate to members of the trade that zero-carbon house building is possible, affordable and commercially viable. Following the completion and sale of the 5-bedroom property, Caplin Homes and the consortium behind the house’s construction will offer out-of-the-box, scalable solutions for house builders.

Michael Goddard, Director of Caplin homes commented: “We want to prove that

government targets are achievable and that genuine zero-carbon homes are a viable investment for UK housebuilders. The Solar House shows how existing technologies can be used for a large family home but we plan to offer solutions for all house sizes.”

The key technologies utilised in this project include an array of hybrid solar panels, which collect both electrical and thermal energy, solar walls to pre-heat the incoming ventilation air, and an Earth Energy Bank (EEB) and heat pump to store and retrieve heat for use in winter. Excess energy collected during warmer months will be stored underneath the house in the EEB and pumped back to heat the home in

winter. A large number of south facing triple

glazed windows will also enhance the house’s performance during winter months. The technologies will be managed by a state-of-the-art control system, which takes into account the inside and outside temperatures, the energy flow from the solar panels, and the heat levels in the EEB and domestic hot water tank, to optimise the performance of the system. Due to its low energy design, the Solar House is expected to only require heat from the EEB for about 10 weeks of the year.

Michael added: “Energy bills are steadily increasing so for the householder, the zero-carbon home is an exciting prospect. Hopefully the Solar House will prove that it is also an achievable and desirable step for housebuilders.”

The project has been completed by a consortium of sustainability specialists, including Chaplin Homes; Newform Energy, which provided the hybrid panels, heat pump and control system; John Cotterill Sustainable Architecture; and De Montfort University. As part of the project, an MSc research student from De Montfort will monitor the Solar House’s performance over its first 12 months.

Dr Andrew Wright, of De Montfort University’s Institute of Energy and Sustainable Development commented: “So far the calculations suggest that the Solar House will perform well, so we’re looking forward to starting our analyses once the The UK’s first fully solar-powered new build home

has been completed in Great Glen, Leicestershire by sustainability specialists Caplin Homes. Set to exceed the requirements of the government’s 2016 zero-carbon target, the house is designed to collect enough solar energy to provide heating and hot water, and around twice the electricity needed to run the system.

Carbon zero commitment

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Greenhouse

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The large area of triple glazing on the south elevation will allow spectacular views of the countryside as well

as capturing significant amounts of passive solar energy

The project is managed by a consortium led by Caplin Homes, who provide the highly insulated and airtight timber frame structure and the inter-seasonal storage

house is occupied. We’re very proud to have been asked to join the project and act as an independent assessor of its zero-carbon status. The housebuilding industry has to move towards more energy efficient living if it is to meet government targets and the Solar House project could be a landmark stage in that process.”

The Solar House is located in an area of open countryside and in order to gain planning approval, was required to meet some strict conditions. The building was required to have architectural merit and to demonstrate strong technical innovation in order to comply with paragraphs 17 and 55 of the National Planning Framework. In granting permission, the local authority stated “the proposal features an innovative combination of solar technologies that result in a truly outstanding and innovative technological design, which will help raise standards of technological design more generally, and as such is worthy of support as an exception to policy”.

Utilising natural resourcesThe building has the clean lines of a modern design, but uses, as far as possible, natural materials in its structure and finishes. The timber frame structure and Siberian Larch cladding of the house and associated garage have low embodied carbon and the roofcovering of Sedum plants will absorb rainwater, limiting its run-off. Other green technologies and environmental benefits include:

• Green roof finishes and wild meadow planting provide habitats and biodiversity

• PV-T panels on the roof provide solar electric and solar thermal energy for use in the building and for charging electric vehicles

• Solar walls pre-warm the air within the cavity for extraction and circulation by the MVHR

• Existing mature trees form shelter belt from weather

• South facing glazing for winter solar heat gains

• Canopy and balcony provide solar shading from summer sun

Meanwhile, the large area of triple glazing on the south elevation will allow spectacular views of the countryside as

well as capturing significant amounts of passive solar energy. On the inside, the rooms are generously proportioned and open plan adding to the feeling of spaciousness.

Viable solar solutionThe solar solution to zero carbon consists of three elements: Solar Energy Collection, Solar Energy Storage and Heat Pump. Solar Energy Collectors, which collect both heat and electrical energy, are known as Hybrid solar panels. These combined arrays take up about 35% less roof area than separate PV and thermal panels would for the same capacity and are less expensive.

Meanwhile, the Solar Energy Storage consists of a matrix of shallow bores 1.5m deep arranged in a triangular pattern 1.5m apart. The bores are drilled by hand in the ground between the foundation walls. Then a heat exchanger sub-assembly, consisting of a series of 32mm diameter PE pipes, is carried to the holes and inserted t

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Greenhouse

The Solar House shows how existing technologies can be used for a large family home

into them. The holes are then back-filled with Bentonite, a porridge of special clay and water, which maintains good thermal contact between the heat exchangers tubes and the earth. The area is then covered with sand and a layer of PU form insulation to keep the heat in.

Conventional ground source installations only ever take heat out of the ground. Often it is found that they work quite well in the first year with the ground at about 8°c, but in the second year, if the ground does not fully recover the heat that was

removed, it may start at say 6°c, with worse results and so on in subsequent years. The advantage of the EEB is that the heat is put there in the first place. A ground source heat pump may work at a co-efficient of performance (COP) of 4 under for a temperature rise of 35°c, the EEB heat pump can be closer to a COP of 6 as it is taking heat from a higher temperature source.

Water-to-water heat pumps are widely used in ground source applications. Conventional methods require either a

long trench to be dug to accommodate a ground loop, or deep-hole bores to be drilled to a depth of 60-120 metres. Both these arrangements simply take natural warmth from the ground. The amount of heat they can extract depends upon the length of the ground loops, or depth of the borehole. Longer ground loops can draw much more warmth from the earth, but in order to supply an adequate quantity of heat, they require much more space to be buried in. Where space is limited, a vertical borehole might be drilled instead. In this case, the greater the depth of the borehole, the more heat produced, but this can be prohibitively expensive, due to the cost of equipment hire and transport.

www.solar-house.co.uk

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Greenhouse

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The Solar House is located in an area of open countryside and in order to gain planning approval has been required to meet some strict conditions

The Solar House aims to demonstrate that it is both practical and affordable to build Zero Carbon houses, powered only by the sun’s energy all year round


ELVAL COLOUR is a leading European coated aluminium manufacturer.

It produces and sells a range of building envelope products like roofing, façade, rain gutters, corrugated and perforated sheets. The company has two manufacturing sites in Greece with state of the art equipment and it operates 4 liquid coating lines anda powder coating line with capacity to paint in excess of 30 million m2 per year. More than 90% of sales are exported toa total of 60 countries.

A leader in product quality and service, ELVAL COLOUR never ceases to detect customers’ needs, responding effectively and efficiently to them. Continuous R&D in various fields allows steady improvement of technology, quality and environmental standards.

ELVAL COLOUR is a member of the European Coil Coating Association (ECCA), the European Aluminium Association, is BBA certified, Sika approved, and also is ISO 9001-2008 and ISO 14001-2004 accredited.

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The heating, hot water and cooking facility designed and installed by JR Building supports the buildings ethos of being completely fuelled by timber

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Designed by Sacker Architects in collaboration with A Henne Ch Korn, the distinctive building for Testo AG – a leading supplier

of portable measuring technology for the climatic and environmental sectors – is located at Titisee in the Black Forest and is the first of four phases to be completed.

An ambitious conceptTesto AG employs over 2000 staff worldwide who are involved in the research, production and marketing of innovative measuring solutions for air conditioning and ventilation, food quality, building technology and emission control. To reflect the company’s expansion and

nature of its high-tech business, the architect’s brief was to create a visually impressive building for 300 employees that would also blend well into its Black Forest surroundings.

It was equally important for the scheme to provide a high quality working environment for its staff, maintain a consistent interior temperature, and minimise the building’s carbon footprint by achieving a high level of energy efficiency and low energy consumption.

The first phase of the five-storey development provides 12,700m2 of office accommodation and, in line with the project’s objectives, a third of this space is located underground to help minimise its

visual impact on the surrounding landscape. The building is also setting new standards in terms of its architectural design and technical execution.

The two-storey basement area accommodates laboratories with parking areas below. It protrudes only partially above ground to protect the highly

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t


Sustainability in Development

In this article, Ian Smith, Senior Manager at aluminium facade specialist, Wicona, looks at how a bespoke facade solution has helped to create a striking landmark headquarters for a high-tech business in Germany’s Black Forest.

High-tech headquarters

To reflect Testo’s expansion and nature of its high-tech business, the architect’s brief was to create a visually impressive building for 300 employees

The glazed units were prefabricated to minimise work on site and ensure the highest levels of precision

sensitive research departments from the adverse weather conditions prevalent in Southern Germany.

The inside of the building is lit by a multi-storey atrium, and all of the offices are connected via a landscaped central courtyard.

When completed, the development will take the form of a continuous elevated lower floor, which will support four individual blocks above. A series of glass bridges will link the second and third floors of the first phase to the other buildings.

The building’s exterior has a vibrant design featuring 2000m2 of natural stone cladding and 1500m2 of glass and aluminium.

The specially-designed Wicona glazing solutions were developed and engineered for the project in close collaboration with fabricators, App and Dilger. The systems were extensively tested for air tightness, acoustic performance and wind, water and impact resistance at the Wicona Test Centre in Bellenberg, Germany. This ensured full compliance with international standards and specifications, including EN 13830 for curtain walling.

The facade system for the north and south ends of the building was constructed as L-shaped units which overlap and tilt outwards. This creates a strong, sculptural effect, reflecting the company’s

commitment to design and innovation and offers a different view from every perspective. The design also has the added advantage of visually reducing the overall mass of the building and incorporates an external solar control system. Here, the glazing comprises both fixed panes of glass and concealed vents for natural ventilation, with additional acoustic protection where the building is close to a busy road.

The glazed units were prefabricated to minimise work on site, ensure the highest levels of precision and accurate tolerances, and to avoid the effect of inclement weather conditions, particularly during the winter. This innovative solution is based on a ‘unitised approach’ that lends itself well to technically challenging projects, and more complex facades such as the Testo building where achieving a high level of accuracy was critical. Each unit was fully glazed and sealed off site, allowing the panels to be moved to site for faster installation on to pre-prepared fixings.

Every panel was different and not one single standard curtain walling profile was installed on this project, requiring very detailed co-ordination and all work to be carried out in 3D using specialist software, from design and drawing to machining and data exchange.

The side walls of the building are angled for a dynamic appearance and take the

form of a unique ribbon window design with integrated ventilation, interspersed with horizontal bands of smooth limestone cladding.

Elements of the building management system, such as the controls and motors to automatically and silently open the window vents, were integrated into the facade construction and are fully concealed behind internal wood cladding to ensure a seamless appearance.

The specially-adapted Wicona profiles



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Fact fileArchitects: Sacker Architects and A Henne Ch Korn landscape architects

Fabricators: App and Dilger

Facade consultants: Mosbacher + Roll

Facade systems: Wicona

The side walls of the building are angled for a dynamic appearance and take the form of a unique ribbon window design

and areas of triple glazing achieve U values for the glazed units as low as 1.3 W/m2K to deliver excellent thermal efficiency as well as an aesthetically pleasing appearance. The facade design also had to incorporate external solar protection – and this project is believed to be the first to feature an angled facade with external slatted blinds.

At ground floor level and for the two-storey reception area, the slim sight lines of Wicona’s WICTEC 50 ‘stick’ curtain walling to passive house standards was used to create a sleek, inclined facade and reflect the dynamism of the building.

The angle of the curtain walling increases from one mullion to the next which meant every panel of glass had to be different. The system achieved an outstanding U value of just 0.84 W/m2K in line with the building’s strong sustainability credentials, to reduce energy consumption and minimise its carbon footprint even further. Other environmental features of the building included:

• Automated vents to provide high levels of natural ventilation and maintain a constant internal temperature

• Night cooling• Thermally activated control systems.

All of the Wicona glazing systems were installed on time, to the required stringent quality standards and in just six weeks, despite construction through the winter months – a major achievement for such a complex and varied facade project.

Proven facade suiteWicona has recently expanded its product range in the UK with the launch of the WICTEC curtain walling suite. Widely used

internationally, this comprehensive facade range has been engineered to deliver advanced technical features and options for outstanding performance for both new build and refurbishment projects and a wide variety of building structures.

The range includes the classic stick curtain walling used for the Testo project, and a unitised option, structural glazing for glass-to-glass facades with less visible aluminium, and high specification double skin facades. The WICTEC suite is based on one single system and common components to simplify specification and reduce time and cost in fabrication and installation.

There are variations and profiles in the range to suit almost any building, design,

site or application and additional options include bullet resistance to standard FB4, fire protection to G30/F30, and enhanced security and burglar resistance to achieve classes RC1 to RC3.

The Testo building successfully demonstrates how a standardised yet highly flexible curtain walling product such as the Wicona WICTEC system can be used alongside specially-developed and complex facade solutions to create a very individual and unique landmark headquarters building.

www.wicona.co.uk



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The inside of the building is lit by a multi-storey atrium, and all of the offices are connected via a landscaped central courtyard

All of the Wicona glazing systems were installed on time, to the required stringent quality standards and in just six weeks

The innovative solution is based on a ‘unitised approach’ that lends itself well

to technically challenging projects

Approved Document B of the Building Regulations states that ‘internal linings in buildings should adequately resist the

spread of flame over their surfaces and have, if ignited, a rate of release which is reasonable within the circumstances’.

The Document also states that walls and ceilings in common access areas of buildings of multiple occupancy, such as social housing, schools and leisure facilities,

should be finished with materials that contribute to this. Within the current legislation guidelines there is very little mention of paint, although they do relate to areas that are usually treated with decorative materials, such as the internal linings.

Increasingly, it has become apparent that the gradual build-up of paint layers may offer some contribution in the event of fire, especially if they are poorly adhering. With

this in mind, it is absolutely essential that when considering the painting of ceilings and walls, that products chosen are fit and right for purpose.

Flame classificationThe main classifications used for testing the compliance of materials within the requirements of the building regulations are BS476 Part 6 and 7. BS476 Part 6-Fire Propagation measures contribution to the growth of fire, while BS476 Part 7-Surface Spread of Flame measures the distance that the flame travels across the surface. The level of flame classification required for commercial and residential buildings, as laid down in the Building Regulations, is usually Class 1 or Class 0. Class 0 is generally required for ceiling and wall finishes in public areas including circulation areas and escape routes.

By working closely with their clients for many years and fully appreciating the often conflicting demands of meeting legislation without compromise to aesthetic or performance requirements, a number of the leading paint manufacturers, such as Johnstone’s, now offer systems specially


Voice of the Industry

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Following the introduction of the RRFSO Regulatory Reform order building owners have a legal ‘Duty of Care’ to minimise fire risk in their premises and prioritise the safety of occupants. Here, Tony Walker, Technical Manager – Specification at Johnstone’s, looks at how the development of flame retardant coatings are increasingly helping building owners meet ever-changing legislation.

Coatings fit for purpose

It is essential that when considering the painting of ceilings and walls, that products

chosen are fit and right for purpose

Class 0 is generally required for ceiling and wall finishes in public areas including

circulation areas and escape routes

formulated to inhibit the surface spread of flame. These systems help simplify the specification process for newly painted surfaces and help reduce the uncertainty surrounding the specification of paint for redecoration over multiple layers of paints.

Some manufacturers offer flame retardant decorative top coat systems, which have achieved a Class 0 rating. There are paints available, tested in accordance with BS476 Parts 6&7 that are ideal for application onto unpainted, non combustible surfaces and also for painting over sound existing paintwork consisting of up to approximately 10 existing like-for-like paint layers. Paints that have achieved the highest standard of Class 0 under test enable surfaces, which over the years have been painted on numerous occasions and which are now deemed Class 4 or un-classified to be reverted back to a non-combustible Class 0 surface.

While the ability to protect against the spread of flames is clearly the primary consideration when specifying flame retardant paint, it does not need to be to the detriment of aesthetic appeal. For example, technology has advanced so much in the coatings industry that we’re now at a stage where these two-coat systems can

be tinted to over 16,000 colours. The sheer availability of colours means that building occupants can be given relative freedom to choose the colours they want.

Access to this vast array of colours also provides the building owner with assistance when considering the 2010 Equality Act, particularly when it comes to aiding the movement of visually impaired people. The use of contrasting colours can not only improve the visual impact of a building but also assist with way-finding, especially in situations where there is a need to move occupants safely and freely.

On-site assessment It’s not just colour options where flame retardant coatings excel, however, as the durability they provide ensures they are the perfect fit for buildings that experience high levels of traffic. The robust and durable nature of modern flame retardant coatings can help to significantly extend maintenance cycles and ensure that minimal disruption will be caused, as the need for potentially intrusive redecorating programmes will be lessened.

There is little doubt that establishing whether the existing substrate is sound for redecoration can be both complex

and potentially onerous on the person responsible for the ‘Duty of Care’. It is important to note that having historical painting records and visually assessing the areas will not always determine your choice.

This is why many manufacturers offer onsite assessments designed to provide building owners with all the information they need to make a safe specification. These comprise of a series of assessment-based tests. These include a microscopic test to ascertain the number of layers on a substrate and secondly an adhesion test, which establishes whether existing coatings have good adhesion to the substrate and is therefore suitable for the application of flame retardant paints. In the case of existing coatings being deemed to have poor adhesion they will necessitate stripping back to the original surface.

To drive consistency and ensure that the recommendations are taken on board, the manufacturer has a responsibility to provide written technical documents along with a certificate of supply. This, along with professional technical support, will ensure the painting project is completed on time and delivers peace of mind to all parties.

www.johnstonestrade.com

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Voice of the Industry

Tony Walker is the Technical Manager – Specification at Johnstone’s and joined the company after 18 years as a time served decorator. Tony is responsible for overseeing all technical documents that are produced by the leading paint manufacturer, as well as managing an experienced team of technical specification and colour consultants who work across a wide variety of projects across the commercial sector.

The sheer availability of colours means that building occupants can be given relative freedom to choose the colours they want


The A2-s1, d0 Board

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With efficient and effective construction information at the very heart of BIM, building product manufacturers such

as Sika are embracing this new technology by providing a wealth of product information to specifiers online, in a standardised and immediately accessible digital structure.

With BIM set to change the way buildings are designed, built and maintained, those who adopt BIM have demonstrated that effective information management leads to business efficiency and profitability. To support the growth of BIM as an information-rich and highly effective business process, the NBS National BIM Library – the free-to-use resource for all major building fabric systems – will give architects and specifiers all the information they need by providing, sharing and maintaining quality information for the built environment.

The BIM Library gives specifiers the ability to compare products on a like-for-

like basis and as such decisions can be made based on the quality of the product – such as performance, financial cost, environmental impact cost, durability, third party certification and warranty – and not on the quality of the marketing spend. And where products need to be assembled to form a system, the user will be able to do this online through a user-friendly interface which will reduce and hopefully eliminate the chances of specifying incompatible products in a system.

As the first single ply roofing brand to become BIM ready on the NBS National BIM Library, back in April 2013, Sika has been encouraged by the number of downloaded objects so far.

Over 20 BIM Objects were created for typical Sika Sarnafil flat roofing systems, from adhered and mechanically fastened roofs, to ballasted and green roofs. These are available in the majority of software packages, for specifiers and designers to

download and incorporate into their model.The early stages of BIM require certain

levels of information, so for initial concept and early design the current BIM objects allow designers to get a product specific Sarnafil Single Ply roof system specified and integrated into their model, containing information on the various layers, their properties and characteristics. However, as the project progresses through the design process, more detailed design takes place in preparation for the fabrication and construction phases.

As a pioneer in liquid applied membranes and supplier of cold installed roof systems including built-up warm, inverted, and green roofs, Sika Liquid Plastics has also joined Sika Sarnafil by launching a wide range of their products as BIM objects. The company has 12 objects listed including Decothane Warm Roof and SikaGrowPlus Green Roof Systems as well as Sikalastic systems which will make identifying the most suitable product for each project specification a simple and efficient process.

Sika has also added four decorative flooring products – Sika CompactFloor, Sika DecoFlake, Sika DecoFloor and Sika DecoQuartz – to the National BIM Library which will give architects and specifiers all the information they need in the design, modeling and planning of commercial and industrial floor applications. Sika’s product details are available in all major software formats to simplify both compliance with Building Regulations and delivery of high performance decorative flooring solutions.

The inclusion of all these products as BIM objects has proved a natural progression for Sika, aligning perfectly with the company’s on-going commitment to product development, technological innovation and collaborative working practices. It also falls into line with the Government’s Construction Strategy and the industry mandate that will require fully collaborative BIM level 2 as a minimum by 2016.


Building Information Modeling

18

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Sika embraces BIM revolutionIn an age of information technology, BIM holds the key to the digital construction future which for architects, designers and contractors who adopt this innovative technology it will mean they can maintain a competitive edge in a competitive industry.

* [email protected] ( 0800 112 3863 008

The current BIM objects allow designers to get a product specific Sarnafil Single Ply roof system specified and integrated into their model

Sika is embracing BIM by providing a wealth of product information to specifiers online


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BIM details now available for: Sika Liquid Plastics - liquid roof waterproofingSika Sarnafil - flat roof systemsSika - Decorative flooring

Visit www.nationalbimlibrary.com/sika-liquidplastics www.nationalbimlibrary.com/sika-sarnafil www.nationalbimlibrary.com/sika-limited

Enquiry 009Online


The famous South Bank landmark is an internationally acclaimed example of Brutalist architecture that has become

as much of a visitor attraction as the productions that take place inside. The distinctive terraced balconies that form its rectangular concrete silhouette provide both public walkways and roofs for offices below so when their original asphalt surfaces started failing, resulting in leaks, the National Theatre decided to re-waterproof them as part of a £80m refurbishment programme.

Specialist contractor Cobsen-Davies advised the National Theatre on the best approach to minimise disruption to employees and visitors and ensure an environmentally responsible and durable specification. Kemperol 2K-PUR from Kemper System was selected as an effective, flexible membrane that could be applied directly onto the existing substrate without the need for any hot works or strip out. Because the cold liquid-applied membrane is solvent- and odour-free, it could be installed while the building was occupied with minimum disruption and in line with the National Theatre’s sustainability goals.

Re-waterproofing the 4th and 5th floor terraces and the inner quadrangle, Cobsen-Davies worked on small sections at a time so that access to all offices and workshops could be maintained throughout the project.

Following minor repairs to the existing substrate, the installation team applied Kemper System’s Kempertec primer and, once this had been allowed to cure, the Kemperol 2K-PUR solvent-free resin was applied to each surface. The Kemperol resin saturates a non-woven reinforcement fleece and cures to form a totally seamless monolithic membrane that is UV stable and permanently elastic with a direct bond to the substrate. In some areas, Kemper System’s Kemperdur Quartz Coating was also applied to provide a coloured, slip-resistant, protective coating, creating designated walkways.

Kieron Lillis, Head of Engineering at the National Theatre adds: “The solvent-free approach was ideal for us as it meant that we could factor in our business as usual requirements and our sustainability goals while still addressing the long-term needs of maintaining the building. The use of the quartz coating also meant that we could enhance health and safety on the walkways in a single scheme, improving rather than simply repairing the structure.”

As the National Theatre prepares to raise the curtain on its 50th anniversary season, Kemper System has ensured that its Grade II listed building continues to perform by providing the waterproofing membrane for a major refurbishment project.

Roofing

Outstanding performance at National Theatre

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The distinctive terraced balconies that form its rectangular concrete silhouette provide both public walkways and roofs for offices below

The National Theatre decided to re-waterproof the asphalt surfaces as part of a £80m refurbishment programme

* [email protected] ( 01925 445532 010


Building Information Modelling

It is important that research and development continues to develop the additional dimensions of BIM. However, in the immediate future the industry needs to consolidate its ability to deliver the core aspects of BIM. Successful BIM is highly dependent upon inputting good quality information. Clients will not see the anticipated time and cost savings from tendering, construction and operation unless an investment is made in the briefing and design data. As more clients understand the benefits of BIM, they are requesting data as well as 3D models. We’re keen to use laser scanning, especially for refurbishment projects, but the software still needs to be developed to cope with the large file sizes and inter-operability issues.

Andy Almond Pick Everard Architects

The future of BIM is anchored in interoperable collaboration to fully realise the return on investment that implementing BIM will inevitably require. Using and re-using shared information will be key. This applies to all the critical areas including Project Management, Sourcing and Procurement and the stages within them from feasibility, design, construction through to facilities management. Input from all parties involved in the process is essential. Clients, consultants, constructors, suppliers all need to be able to collaborate around an agreed central model. Integrating the model

with information from design to purchase is key. Intelligent information collation and reporting and insight from that information is critical to achieving your business objectives.

Danny Mollah Asite

For this month’s BIM forum, we asked a number of specialists what the future holds for BIM, how they envisage industry collaborations to evolve and how BIM may eventually affect relationships within the model.

Up in the clouds

It is incredibly difficult to predict the future when it comes to technology, but here are three areas to watch. The rise of the cloud – on the cloud you don’t have to install software, so there is unlimited processing power and storage, plus the option to just pay for whatever is needed. Users can also access data from anywhere in the world with an Internet connection. Improved information flow – laser scanning will continue to improve and become more affordable. This physical information will flow into digital information and designers will use this to form their designs. Full collaboration – in the future, it is possible that the user will be presented with a single model view. Users will be able to take control of the information they need to work on and then push this back into the model.

Stephen Hamil NBS


Level 2 BIM is the adopted method for project development. This allows project teams to work within their own structure and to share files in a federated model. Over recent months cloud based solutions have come to the fore allowing the sharing of information real time on a project. We will see a continued movement towards cloud based collaboration or BIM 2.0. This collaboration is adopting more social media type technologies to communicate across the team. The software is relatively easy to adopt however the processes are a greater challenge to the traditional design management process. Over the next few years we will see an increase in the use of these techniques allowing the speed of information exchange to increase.

Rob Charlton BIM Technologies

BIM in the cloud is a truly democratic phenomenon, reducing the need for major capital expenditure significantly, enabling businesses to pay for it as they would any other project service. This throws not just a lifeline to smaller firms, which now, increasingly, need to be BIM-enabled to bid for a share of larger projects, but enables them to compete on level terms. At the moment, taking BIM to the cloud is still an option rather than a necessity. However, if BIM take-up further increases as predicted and current BIM users become more demanding and sophisticated in their use of the concept, then the cloud is the future of BIM. Using the cloud, BIM pioneers can continue to push the boundaries in their use of both technology and processes; smaller firms can begin to enjoy the advantages too.

Will Nicol AEC EMEA

People are waking up to the benefits of BIM – though with only 39% of the construction industry actively using BIM so far there’s still a long way to go. Any who grumble at the additional pressure for compliance should bear in mind, however, that there are some significant opportunities. Planning will be so much simpler with informational integrity maintained end to end via project management tools; data gaps and discontinuities can end, productivity can improve, costs can be managed and project visions realised more easily. The true benefit of collaboration is even greater, however. For the first time, architects, designers, planners, construction firms, FM and operations people will come together at the start with the chance to operate as a team.

Michael McCullen Asta Development

The real advantages and value gains in BIM will be in contactors’ supply chain management and in clients’ facilities management. As the industry realises this, there will be a re-balance to research and development in these areas. This realisation will also promote changes in industry processes and structures. Professions will need to redefine how they add value within this process. In addition, collaboration will be a key benefit of BIM but it will not be the technology that does this; organisations and people need to want to do it.

Professor David Boyd Birmingham School of the Built Environment

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Construction is worth about £90 billion to the UK. But as the first green shoots of recovery start to grow, are we missing a

trick? Are there alternative ways of building or new technologies and materials that will help us build faster, more efficiently and sustainably?

Offsite is one way of doing things differently. It shouldn’t really be described as a new method of construction – it’s been around since Roman times. What is new about it today is that it’s increasingly technology driven with prefabricated components being manufactured and assembled in factories before moving onsite. Around 12% of construction takes place offsite in the UK, with the most recent estimates putting the value of this at around £1.5 billion. Sounds impressive, until you realise that it has the potential to achieve as much as £6 billion.

A shift in core skillsNew UKCES research finds that offsite construction offers some key advantages over traditional ‘brick and block’ construction. Using offsite can slash build times and improve efficiency, which would be invaluable in the context of today’s pressured housing market, deliver near fault free buildings and reduce waste. The fact that the manufacture and assembly of building materials takes place in weatherproof factories is an added plus as it can be miserable working on a wet and cold building site in winter.

However, the ability of the construction industry to capitalise on these opportunities is hampered by a lack of people with the right skills. One reason is that the core skills for offsite are different to traditional construction. There’s more emphasis on multi-skilling and collaboration within offsite job roles. It’s important for people in the industry to appreciate how principles of design, construction,

manufacturing and engineering come together to create a finished building.

Plus it’s key to have skilled project managers to oversee the movement of materials from offsite factories to assembly, together with people who can sell and market these new, innovative materials and ways of building – often to quite skeptical financiers.

Employers I’ve talked to for this research considered the current qualification and training offer for offsite to be largely inadequate. This is a significant problem, since should the demand for offsite increase, there is a real chance that we will not have the skills in the UK to exploit its full potential.

Employers are responding, with many offsite companies creating their own in house bespoke training, but this provision is fragmented.

The global construction market is forecast to grow by over 70% in 2025. Without investment in the right skills we risk being left behind – leaving space for others to step in and reap the rewards.

www.blogs.bis.gov.uk/ukces/

The UK’s growth could be hampered by a lack of new skills to support modern methods of construction, according to a report published last month by the UK Commission for Employment and Skills. Here, the partnership’s Research Manager Helen Beck identifies what is stopping the industry from capitalising on the innovative offsite approach.


Legal & Business

24

Investing in skills

Helen Beck is a Research Manager for the UK Commission for Employment and Skills, managing projects looking at the value of investing in skills and training. Previous projects include exploring the economic value of employee led investment activity, and she is currently working on research into the future of UK jobs and skills – exploring a number of scenarios for jobs and skills predictions in 2030.

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Scientists and policy makers now broadly agree that the increasing emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG) from human activities

are the main reason for climate change.The UK Government acknowledges that

the construction industry has an important role to play in the reduction of GHGs as it could influence 47% of all GHG emissions in the UK. Government policy, reflected in Building Regulations, prioritises the decarbonisation of the UK economy. In the marketplace, energy efficient, low carbon goods and services are being promoted.

While Government figures reveal that most emissions (83%) are created during the life of the building (i.e. heating and electricity consumption created from fossil fuels), the manufacture of building products accounts for the largest amount of emissions (15%) within the process of construction.

So it follows that choosing low carbon materials for the construction of buildings can significantly contribute to limiting the negative environmental impact of construction and mitigate the effects of climate change.

While this focus on environmental performance is good news, architects and specifiers are faced with the challenge of judging which materials are most environmentally effective.

Carbon footprint is one useful metric

for comparing the contribution of different materials to climate change. The standard PAS2050:2011 gives the methodology for companies to calculate their own carbon footprint. This methodology has a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach which involves measuring all the GHG emissions generated in the sourcing and manufacturing of a product (cradle to gate).

Timber products are usually low energy intensive and have a further advantage as trees take up CO2 emissions and fix them into wood, which are only released back to the environment once the timber is destroyed.

This combination of low impacts and carbon emissions storage means that the carbon footprint of timber products is frequently a negative one. The usage of timber from sustainable sources (i.e. FSC, PEFC certified) ensures that the forest resource is renewed and even expanded, so that new trees can recapture the CO2 emissions released by timber products at end of their lives, creating a closed “virtuous cycle”.

In the case of James Jones, our carbon footprint has been third party independently validated to ensure compliance with PAS2050:2011. Our results show that 1 linear metre of JJI-Joists can store CO2 emissions even after emissions from our process and supply chain have been considered.

On a bigger scale, tailored data can be offered for floor, roof and wall designs showing the total GHG emissions stored per house. For example, a recent volume housebuilder floor design we supplied revealed that 500kg CO2 were stored per house.

We can also link carbon footprint results with BIM packages. This helps specifiers quickly assess the contribution of their buildings to climate change and the effect of materials choice on the final carbon footprint of their projects. This is particularly important as the Government deadline of 2016 for supporting BIM in all its projects draws closer.

www.jji-joists.co.uk

Abel Munoz, Technical Manager with James Jones and Sons Ltd, Timber Systems, suppliers of FSC and PEFC accredited JJI-Joists, looks at how carbon footprints are calculated and how they can help designers make informed decisions on product specification.


Timber

26

A positive step towards negative carbon

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Volume housing, using JJI Joists in their construction. Image courtesy of Drumossie Homes

JJI Joists – stored CO2 emissions can be calculated per linear metre


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The Olympics deadline was fast approaching and while one company had quoted to do the work, its solution did not fit within

the budget. The hotel turned to renewable energy system installer PowerNaturally Ltd, and its sister company Underfloor Heating Now, to come up with an alternative.

Paul Yeatman, Technical Director of Dorset-based PowerNaturally, says he knew exactly where to look: “There was really only one company – and only one product – that would fit. I went straight to Daikin UK for its high temperature units because I knew that was the only way I was going to be able to satisfy the high hot water and heating demands.

Building restrictions“Guests are paying anywhere up to £2,500 a night to stay in the suites, so if they want to be in their whirlpool baths at one or two o’clock in the morning – and then to jump in the shower and then back in the whirlpool – there should be hot water available.

“However, while there was this clear requirement for luxury – along with copious amounts of hot water – the hotel is within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so there are restrictions on what can be built. Renewable energy systems, and air-to-water heat pumps in

particular, were the best way of making the treehouses as green as possible.”

Twelve Daikin Altherma 16kW High Temperature Split heat pumps were installed, one for each suite. Each system comprised an outdoor unit, an indoor unit (or hydrobox) and a 260 litre hot water cylinder installed on top of the indoor unit. These systems were selected as they can heat the water in the cylinders up to 75°C with relatively quick re-heat times. This ensured that the high hot water demand of the treehouses could be met. Additionally,

Treetop retreat

Design & Desire

The five-star Chewton Glen country house hotel wanted to build new accommodation in its grounds, at the edge of the New Forest National Park, in time for the opening of the London 2012 Olympics. This presented an interesting challenge for heating and hot water provision as the 12 luxury suites are sited in six treehouses on the forest edge, each with a family-sized whirlpool bath, a power shower and underfloor heating.

A reliable hot water system was needed in order to offer guests round the clock luxury


as the cylinders were installed on top of the hydroboxes this reduced the internal space required for the equipment.

To optimise system efficiency, the underfloor heating was designed with a maximum flow temperature of 45°C. Consequently, the treehouses benefit from low running costs for space heating. The system has stood the test of time, Yeatman says: “The heat pumps and underfloor heating have been in place for just over a year now and there were no reported problems over one of the coldest winters on record. We’ve managed to satisfy both the very demanding hot water requirements and the environmental restrictions.”

Yeatman is also particularly pleased that the noise of the heat pumps does not affect the much-cherished tranquillity of the treehouses. “I was confident that the system would suit the hotel’s requirements but at the design stage, I warned the hotel that I might have to fit sound-attenuating panels on the doors to the plant rooms because they are in the lobby of each suite. However, the hotel has told me that there was nothing to worry about – the pumps are really quiet.

“When considering installing a Daikin Altherma HT heat pump, customers often ask if they are going to have enough hot water. I can now tell them that if it’s good

enough for a luxury hotel suite, it’s good enough for anyone!”

The treehouses opened the same night as the Olympic opening ceremony was held and the hotel is delighted with them.

Customer satisfaction“The Treehouse Suites have been a real hit with our customers over the past year,” says Business Development Director of Chewton Glen, Leigh Jenkins, “and this popularity shows no signs of abating. The air-to-water heat pump system has been

a key enabler for this success, helping us to meet stringent customer demands for reliability and our own sustainability targets.”

The installation of the 12 Daikin Altherma High Temperature heat pumps and underfloor heating at the Chewton Glen Treehouse Suites satisfied demands for a continuous supply of high volumes of hot water at up to 75°C and underfloor heating at 45°C. The system has reduced running costs dramatically when compared with fossil fuels and the resulting drop


Design & Desire

t

Each Treehouse is on stilts, delicately balanced within the valley and tree canopy

Treehouse Loft Suites feature a secret galleried bunk area for younger guests – ideal for families or as a secret hideaway

The Treehouses are hidden in the grounds of Chewton Glen in a beautiful wooded valley

in carbon emissions is also in keeping with the requirements of the surrounding area.

Specification processIt is no longer the case that “one size fits all” when it comes to air-to-water heat pumps. The wide range of products on the market can differ significantly and it is important to pick the right system to suit each project’s needs, if maximum levels of efficiency are to be achieved.

There are split and monobloc ranges, high temperature and low temperature systems and specialist heat pumps designed for multi-occupancy buildings or commercial applications. In addition there are now smaller capacities available, which have been specifically designed for today’s highly insulated new-build homes.

Low temperature air-to-water heat pumps are most suitable where an existing house is being refurbished, incorporating improved insulation levels and replacing heat emitters, or ideally in new-build homes. Operating most efficiently when generating low flow temperatures, these applications means that the emitters can be suitably sized to deliver the required heat at the lowest possible flow temperatures. Underfloor heating systems can be designed to operate with flow temperatures as low as 35°C; heat pump convectors are also designed to operate at similar low flow temperatures and low temperature radiators typically require 45°C.

There are two types of low temperature

heat pumps available: split refrigerant systems consisting of an outdoor unit and an indoor unit; and monobloc heat pumps which have a sealed refrigerant circuit contained in the outdoor unit.

Low temperature split refrigerant systems are the most versatile of all air-to-water heat pumps and the latest models have very high efficiencies for the highest possible running cost savings. They are available in a wide range of capacities to suit every size of home, providing

maximum installation flexibility. Depending on the capacity, the outdoor unit is able to be situated up to 30m and some can even be sited up to 70m away from the property, making them ideal where aesthetics are of paramount importance.

Where internal space is at a premium, or where smaller capacities are required, a monobloc system may be better suited. Lower capacity monoblocs (6kW and 8kW) are particularly suitable for smaller properties and are designed specifically for the UK housing sector, targeting fuel poor, off-gas properties. Monobloc air-to-water heat pumps are an ideal product for installers making the move into renewable heat pumps for the first time, because refrigerant-handling qualifications are not necessary for installation. Products such as the Daikin Altherma monobloc offer an easy installation for first time installers since all the key hydraulic components such as the circulation pump and expansion vessel are factory fitted in the outdoor unit.

For apartments or high density housing, a multiple-occupancy system may be better. The latest heat pump systems allow independent control and billing of heating and hot water systems within each individual home, with the whole building system powered from community-based outdoor units.

www.chewtonglen.com www.daikin.co.uk


Design & Desire

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Floor to ceiling glass provides panoramic forest views and flooding suites with light

The designer’s use of soft, warm colours and pure, natural materials calm as well as comfort



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Online Enquiry 016


Daylight positively influences people, affects how they behave, changes their circadian rhythm and improves their well-being.

In schools, for example, it has a marked influence on pupil learning and their behaviour.

One of the obvious problems is insulation and the preservation of expensive energy while at the same time, comes the difficulty of how to control the sun. In other words, designers need to work out how to maximise the benefits of daylight while controlling unwanted solar heat gain and the attendant disadvantages of shadow, glare and heat loss. Clearly, the answer lies with specifying an effective insulating glazing system and not having to rely on expensive

external louvres and shutters nor on internal blinds and curtains.

At the Putney School of Art a happy artist is bathed in an envelope of light, constructed in Kalwall. One of the most important benefits of this highly insulating glazing system, compared with other conventional glazing materials, is its ability to control heat transfer and solar gain. This is achieved by its unique construction – neither plastic, glass or polycarbonate – which combines to reduce solar gain while at the same time maximising thermal insulation. It is all to do with the transmittance, reflectance and absorption in combination with the thermal resistance – i.e. by limiting the radiation and the conduction.

Technically, this means that the efficiency

of the external surface will reflect more than three times better while reducing the inward transmission by about five times. It means that nearly half the heat is absorbed within the panel, reducing inward radiation and conduction to a very low 8%. The overall effect of all this system, with a U-value of 1.25 W/m2K, compared with, for example 24mm double glazing, with a U-value of 1.8% W/m2K, is a mere 19% of solar gain for the one compared with 69% for the other.

Of course, glass is the most popular of glazing materials and the developments are huge. A mere glance at Pilkington’s range is enough to see the plethora of solutions for virtually any contingency to deal with what natures throws at it on one side and how to reduce energy consumption on the other.

Perhaps the most extreme glass solution is in the new Halley V1 Research Station in Antarctica designed by UK architects Hugh Broughton with Faber Mausell. Here, the central social module is lit by a large Okagel double-height, east facing window supplied by the German company Okalux glass to give a U value of 0.3 – i.e. maximising and diffusing daylight while minimising energy loss in the most extreme conditions on earth.

The secret here is the incorporation between the glass sheets of Lumira aerogel, the extraordinary development by the giant US Cabot Corporation. A translucent granular form of silica aerogel, this comprises up to 90% air and is the world’s lightest and best insulating solid material. It can significantly reduce – and in some cases virtually eliminate – the thermal disconnect associated with fenestration, translucent cladding and rooflighting. This now makes it possible to manufacture insulating energy-saving daylighting systems in glass, polycarbonate, fibreglass and other composites to achieve the very highest performance – even up to being as thermally effective as a solid wall!

www.structura-uk.com/kalwall

Over the past decades, windows have increasingly got bigger and now dominate building envelope design. In this article, architect Christopher Sykes discusses the battle to reduce solar gain and energy consumption in contemporary glazing.

Controlling solar gain

Glass & Glazing

At the new Halley V1 Research Station in Antarctica, the central social module is lit by a large Okagel double-height, east facing window

At the Putney School of Art a happy artist is bathed in an envelope of light, constructed in Kalwall

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At October’s BCSC conference, the seminar session ‘Don’t rule out secondary, the picture is rosier than you think’ attracted

a number of speakers who are approaching this situation in different ways. With the reduction in property value and the proven covenant strength of the surviving retail tenants, some secondary centres are being seen by investors as an income asset with no intervention required. However, others were clearly focused on maximising their investment, including by bringing in new uses that reflect the community need, such as medical centres, children’s facilities, and cinemas.

With over 15 years’ experience in the retail property business, architecture practice, Child Graddon Lewis (CGL), embarked on a study of ‘in town’ shopping centres to identify the most effective ways of bringing them back to life. Usually under single ownership in town centre locations, these centres offer a significant opportunity for reviving the high street with relative ease and helping owners, retailers and the local community.

Investing in a holistic approachIts report ‘Retail Therapy – the cure for our secondary shopping centres’, focuses on the issues affecting these centres, offering practical analysis and solutions to help owners and occupiers. By taking a design-led approach, looking holistically at shopping centre building types, and finding new uses for vacant and underused space, it shows that if approached in the right way, there is huge potential for change, bringing with it greater footfall and increased income for owners and occupiers.

Gillian Green, the Director of Child

Graddon Lewis who spearheaded the study, commented: “In town shopping centres have untapped potential to drive change and regenerate our high streets and town centres. With a relatively small investment and the right mix of solutions, owners can turn struggling assets around, with a reduction in vacancy rates and an increase in capital values as a result.

“In terms of commercial floor space, retail property still commands the highest rents and capital values, and vacant shop premises hold significant hope values for landlords, so there will be reluctance to seek a change of use. The challenge for us was to show the practical advantages in exploiting vacant areas for multiple uses in order to facilitate

regeneration in secondary shopping centres. At the same time, the way these projects are approached is paramount – working with architects can bring about more, longer term creative solutions.”

A number of factors have come into play over the past year. Initially there was an emphasis on temporary solutions to vacant retail spaces, with pop up shops, temporary artist galleries, community projects and drop in centres all providing attractive solutions. More recently, focus has shifted to the need to bring uses other than retail to our town centres.

The current debate centres around the following issues:

1. Business rates – Theo Paphitis quotes that “rates have added around £500m to retailers’ costs in the last three years”, while alterations to the way business rates are calculated are discussed in both the Portas Pilot report and the Grimsey Review.

2. Parking – Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, Eric Pickles is keen to change unfair parking charges: “We want to rein in these over-zealous and unfair rules on parking enforcement, so it focuses on supporting high streets and motorists, not raising money...public confidence is strengthened in CCTV if it is used to tackle crime, not to raise money for council coffers.”

3. Multichannel retailing has significantly changed the way we all shop.

As the debate about the role of the retail sector in town centre regeneration continues, the government, politicians, retailers and celebrities are all calling for action and putting forward solutions of varying ambition and scope. However, practical and affordable ways of bringing these changes into effect are much harder to find and deliver.

The revival of retail


Retail Build Focus

There is huge potential for change in the retail sector, bringing with it greater footfall and increased income for owners and occupiers

4. Town Teams – there have been a number of suggestions to form teams that can help facilitate change. Portas called for Town Teams; Grimsey suggests Town Centre Commissions; and there have been numerous similar initiatives including BIDs (Business Improvement Districts) and OLF (Outer London Fund).

5. Office relocation to the high street – the Centre for Cities think tank has urged businesses to move to city and town centres to save ailing high streets.

6. Apartments over supermarkets – supermarket-led home building projects are on the rise with Tesco alone building more than 800 homes in London in 2013.

7. Increase in food and leisure – the eating out market grew by 7% from 2007-2012, with shopping centres and high streets adapting to cater for this increased appetite.

8. Planning regulations have a large part to play in regeneration, proposed changes to legislation should ease change of use, and as a result, reduce the defined areas of primary shopping that can inhibit mixed-use, and community-needs based development.

Although retail vacancy figures have remained fairly static at around 14%, CGL have uncovered that by assessing all the available and underused space within town centres, the vacancy figure is close to

35-40%. With this in mind, CGL looked at a number of case studies to show how secondary shopping centres can be adapted to accept new tenants and include different uses.

One of the major obstacles to progress identified by the Retail Therapy report is financial. This is not necessarily the lack of finance available but the investment strategy of the owner. Many are reluctant to commit to expenditure or are unclear on the first steps to take. However, CGL’s research highlights how smart investment, usually between £2m and £12m, can reduce the high vacancy rates in secondary shopping centres from the current average of 14% to 3% while increasing the capital average value in excess of investment by at least £2m.

Fairly minor levels of investment in these building types can allow for a number of uses to be incorporated at ground and upper levels. A site specific assessment of the local community in which the centre sits will reveal what is needed and assist in formulating a long term strategy for the survival of the community.

User-centred facilitiesReconfiguring existing retail units to free up the less profitable rear zones can allow incorporation of new vertical circulation, allowing access to upper floor space which can be usefully reconfigured to incorporate drop in office spaces, medical services, gyms, community spaces and in some cases residential. Extending on top of these buildings should also be considered. With our changing demographics these buildings could be prime sites for student accommodation or care homes, hotels or for private rented sector opportunities.

Most of all, however, spaces within shopping centres need to be adapted to suit the requirements of their specific neighbourhoods; they need to be unique and locally relevant. Flexibility should also be factored in so that these building types can react to changing requirements, both now and in the future. These improvements will not only have the potential to regenerate town centres by providing places that people need to and want to visit, but they can also provide an increase in employment, during and post-build; and in some cases provide much needed residential accommodation. Or looking at it another way, without investment these building types will continue to deteriorate and negatively affect the vitality and success of our town centre communities.

www.cgluk.com


Retail Build Focus

Spaces within shopping centres need to be adapted to suit the requirements of their specific neighbourhoods

Planning regulations have a large part to play in regeneration – proposed changes to legislation should ease change of use

■


Renewable Energy

Figures published by the Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC), suggest that approximately 40% of the

UK’s energy demand results from space heating. A significant proportion of this is attributed to the heating of offices, factories and warehouse facilities.

With increasing pressure on businesses to become more energy efficient – both financially and environmentally – many companies are looking towards highly efficient, holistic heating solutions, which incorporate established renewable technologies, as part of their sustainable building strategy.

Solar air heating however, is one such technology that seems to have been overlooked in the UK, despite its established track record over recent years. Designed for the specific purpose of heating large spaces, active solar technologies such as the SolarWall Transpired Solar Collector (TSC) can transform the fabric of a building’s

southerly elevation into a giant solar collector. The system is used to capture the sun’s energy which is then used to pre-heat fresh, outside air before it is drawn into the building’s heating system, considerably reducing the building’s reliance on fossil

fuels.The installation of a 4500m² TSC for

Marks & Spencer in Castle Donington – the largest example on a single building in the world – is expected to reduce the structure’s heating requirement by somewhere in the region of 30%, generating more than 1,135,000kWh and saving over 256t of CO2 per annum. The 80,000m² facility is set to become the UK’s largest dedicated e-commerce warehouse – distributing two million clothing and home products a week direct to customers.

The technology was also used in the delivery of the UK’s first zero-energy cost business park, at Armstrong Point in Wigan, where its inclusion has helped the development achieve a BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ rating and an A+ ‘Zero’ rated Energy performance certificate.

Intelligent investmentThe TSC technology is designed in collaboration with the project architect and can either be incorporated seamlessly into the building design, or used as a visual focal point to demonstrate the energy reduction and carbon saving measures in place. It is easy to install, has the lowest capital cost, the highest known efficiency (up to 80%) and the quickest return on investment of any active solar technology in the world (proven payback periods are as low as three years). The technology can be applied to new builds or added as a retrofit technology to regenerate run-down buildings and help improve their Display Energy Certificates.

With so much to offer, the technology may well appear too good to be true – but TSCs are much more than just a pretty facade.

The Solar Air Heating World

Secret weapon against CO2Andrew Brewster, Project Development Engineer for building envelope specialist, CA Group Limited, discusses how more companies are adopting active solar technologies as an integral part of their sustainable building strategies.

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CA Building Products have contributed in making Armstrong Point the first zero-energy cost business park in the UK

Armstrong Point in Wigan is set to become the UK’s largest dedicated e-commerce warehouse


Leisure Build Focus

Enquiry 019Online

Industries Association (SAHWIA) was set up in 2010 to represent companies engaged in the manufacture, marketing, installation and sales of solar air heating technologies around the world.

SAHWIA administers the Solar A-Mark, a quality assurance certification designed to guarantee high quality systems in the marketplace. It ensures that reputable solar air collectors are tested to the relevant recognised test standards. It also ensures that the marketplace, along with the reputation and the public perception of solar air collectors, is not diluted with untested systems that, once installed, do not perform to the original claim made by the system manufacturer or supplier.

The UK government has strict guidelines which state that in order to be recognised as a renewable technology, the system in question must have its performance validated to an approved test standard. The aim of SAHWIA is to promote products that satisfy this criteria.

Viable technologyBehind the scenes is the RETScreen Solar Air Heating project model, the only independent software package for the analysis of the Transpired Solar Collector technology. Developed by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), in association with NASA, UNEP and the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the program can be used to assess the viability of projects worldwide, from large-scale industrial developments and process heating, to smaller scale residential applications. The RETScreen software incorporates empirical test data

and performance curves that have been obtained over many years of independent testing.

While the latest version of the iSBEM software recognises the TSC technology and allows the savings it makes to be considered in the overall performance of the scheme to which it contributes, the UK is a long way behind other countries in terms of its take up of solar air heating.

More than 10,000 TSCs have been supplied and installed over the past 30 years, in more than 35 countries globally, and since 2006 in the UK. Solar air heating is already recognised as a viable renewable technology in North America and Canada, where the installation of TCS technology is incentivised to encourage take up. So what’s the delay here at home?

The delay hinges on the fact that the technology, at present, is not officially recognised as ‘renewable’ in line with

the government’s defining criteria – the very tangible and proven benefits of the technology alone are not enough, it would seem, to by-pass the red tape and bureaucracy from within central government.

In spite of the delay to solar air heating receiving an official rubber stamp here in the UK, the technology has been recognised and successfully adopted by a number of household names. As well as the TSC at Marks and Spencer’s Castle Donington facility, the technology has already delivered significant results for Jaguar Land Rover and Royal Mail, to name just a few. And with the many benefits which TSCs deliver – it’s easy for big businesses focusing on its bottom line to argue the case in favour of the technology.

It’s fair to say that while red tape may be delaying mass adoption of the technology, open endorsements such as these are clear evidence of the TSC’s ability to deliver on its promises. Design teams looking to emulate the proven sustainable building strategies of these industry giants would do well to consider the suitability of the technology when objectives include not only hitting environmental targets, but also when built-in architectural appeal and character are included on the developer’s wish list.

Given the huge demand being placed on our natural energy reserves by traditional space heating methods, and the financial penalties associated with failure to meet the UK’s stringent targets set by Kyoto and the Climate Change Act, isn’t it time to cut through the red tape so that this most renewable of technologies can be allowed to reach its full potential and in doing so make a vital contribution in helping the government achieve these targets?

www.cagroupltd.co.uk


Renewable Energy

TSC has helped the development achieve a BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ rating and an A+ ‘Zero’

rated Energy performance certificate

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Active solar technologies such as the SolarWall Transpired Solar Collector (TSC) can transform the fabric of a building’s southerly elevation into a giant solar collector

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Under Building Regulations Approved Document M 2013 Access To & Use of Buildings, toilet accommodation needs to

be suitable not only for disabled people, but for all people who use the building. Further, it is ‘desirable’ to include an enlarged unisex toilet incorporating an adult sized changing bench – a hygiene room or Changing Places toilet.

To help ensure compliance, Clos-o-Mat – a leading UK supplier of disabled toileting solutions – has produced an informative white paper: ‘Considerations & Specification of Changing Places Accessible Toilets’.

“Judging from the emails and telephone calls we are receiving, a huge number of people aren’t fully aware of what these new requirements/desires are, and how they should be implemented,” elaborates Clos-o-Mat Marketing Manager Robin Tuffley. “They are turning to us for

help, knowing we have been involved in the large proportion of hygiene rooms/Changing Places toilets already successfully installed. We have pooled that knowledge into the white paper, to give them a valuable, easy-to-access resource, to make their job easier.”

The white paper covers all requirements for compliance in one place, and can be downloaded direct from Clos-o-Mat’s website www.clos-o-mat.com.

Clos-o-Mat, founded 50 years ago, is the only company in its field with the in-house capability and expertise to design, supply, install, commission and service all the equipment for a hygiene room/Changing Places toilet, from grab rails through hoists and height adjustable basins to automatic (‘wash and dry’) toilets and toilet lifters.

It has a proven track record in the successful design, supply, installation and commissioning of scores of hygiene rooms

and Changing Places toilets, including Wembley Stadium, National Exhibition Centre, Gatwick Airport, Cadbury World and Bullring Birmingham.

Changing Places made easyNew Building Regulations are causing confusion for many specifiers – confusion that can be clarified with new guidance from Clos-o-Mat.


Disability

It is ‘desirable’ to include an enlarged unisex toilet incorporating an adult sized changing bench

– a hygiene room or Changing Places toilet

* [email protected] ( 0161 969 1199 021


CPD Focus

Bosch launches CIBSE accredited training coursesBosch Commercial and Industrial Heating has been granted a CPD approval by CIBSE for its Combined Heat and Power (CHP) training programme. The new training course, aimed at consultants, contractors and specifiers, covers a multitude of CHP topic areas including the principles of CHP, sizing, typical applications, potential CO2 savings, legislation incentives, installation requirements, service and maintenance and many more. The half day training course can be held at the client’s premises or arranged at Bosch Commercial and Industrial Heating’s dedicated training and assessment academy at its Worcester headquarters.

* [email protected] ( 0330 123 0166

Yorkon launches new CPD programmeOff-site construction specialist, Yorkon, a member of the Portakabin Group, has launched a new CPD training programme to help educate architects, contractors, engineers, facilities managers and other building professionals about working with modular construction. The RIBA-accredited seminar looks at how to get the best out of off-site construction and the latest innovations and technical advancements in modular technology.

* [email protected] ( 01904 610990

Pumping related CPDs from Wilo UKWilo UK is pumping up knowledge levels for its customers by providing them with a hands-on continuing

IKO launches new RIBA approved CPDTitled IKO Polimar – Advanced Technology in Liquid Waterproofing Systems, the CPD enables specifiers to learn about the benefits of using the latest liquid waterproofing technologies designed to meet the needs of modern construction. It covers key applications including: roof, balcony and walkway, external cladding, car park and glass protections. This CPD seminar also covers the latest technological developments in advanced liquid waterproofing systems. Further details can be accessed via: www.ikogroup.co.uk


Free CPD Guides to the Green Deal and RHIMitsubishi Electric has launched two free CPD-certified guides focusing on the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) and the Green Deal. “RHI will help to increase demand for renewable alternatives to traditional heating and the Green Deal is an important part of encouraging households to look at the energy efficiency of their homes,” explains Graham Temple, Marketing Communications Manager. Mitsubishi Electric is certified by the Construction CPD Certification Service and has produced a number of independent Industry Information Guides.


New CPD to help architects select the right roof solutionSika Liquid Plastics, pioneer of liquid applied roof membranes, has launched a new RIBA approved Continuing

Professional Development (CPD) presentation titled ‘Roofing Systems: Reducing and Managing Risk’. The CPD is aimed at assisting architects and specifiers to design and select roof solutions that provide levels of required performance and guarantees, meet current and predicted legislative requirements and reduce the risk of litigation and associated consequences. The presentation leader will explore the role of the manufacturer in helping to reduce specific risks such as wind uplift, condensation, hot works and fire risk, Construction Design Management (CDM) and building regulation issues, and drainage/ponding.

* [email protected] ( 01772 259781 023

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education and further education in pumping solutions and related subjects via its popular CPD programme, either in its impressive purpose-built training centre at its UK headquarters in Burton-upon-Trent or by arrangement at premises around the UK. Currently available from Wilo are RIBA accredited CPDs under three topical areas of knowledge – firstly The Benefits of High Efficiency Pumping, secondly A Guide to Rainwater Harvesting Systems and finally, Surge Protection – Designing out Hydraulic Shock.

* [email protected] ( 01283 523000 026

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The new Coral entrance system collection is now effective at stopping up to 94% of all tracked in dirt, making it 40%

more effective. This not only reduces the potential for slips and trips, it also delivers a substantial saving of up to 65% in cleaning costs.

Coral is ideal for all types of entrance areas and is the perfect solution where a textile entrance system is required

to simultaneously absorb moisture and remove dry soiling. There are many ranges to choose from depending on the application. Coral Classic is the ultimate moisture absorber, now available in 50 x 50cm tiles for an easier fit, whilst Coral Brush Pure is the great all rounder for moisture and dirt removal, Coral Brush Blend offers a contemporary linear design, Coral Duo is ideal for all entrances but especially small areas, and Coral Welcome

boasts unrivalled environmental credentials. Janet Lowe UK Market Manager

at Forbo explains: “As a part of our environmental commitment we’re always looking to apply the four key principles of Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Renew to all ranges. We are pleased to announce that the Coral collection now has 100% Econyl fibre across Coral Welcome, Brush Pure, Brush Blend and 75% in Duo. Coral Welcome also has a primary backing made from recycled PET bottles.”

Contributing to its BREEAM certification is the amount of Econyl regenerated solution dyed polyamide yarn used in Coral, which is made using reprocessed industrial waste and post consumer waste. In addition, Forbo’s yarn waste from its Krommenie site is regenerated into new Coral yarn.

All Forbo’s Coral textile and Nuway rigid entrance flooring systems are designed to integrate, specifiers to offer clients fully ‘zoned’ design concepts from exterior to interior, ensuring optimum performance throughout.

Forbo’s Coral entrance systems have been the international market leader for more than 40 years. Constantly evolving, the collection also complies with the highest fire class standard Bfl-S1, as many entrances and access points are also fire exits.

The award-winning Coral entrance flooring collection from Forbo is the ultimate moisture absorber – now boasting even better performance in the removal of dirt. A supreme all-rounder, the enhanced range also offers superior environmental credentials, improved fire rating and is even easier to install.

Coral stops dirt in its tracks

Coral is ideal for all types of entrance areas and is the perfect solution where a textile entrance system is required

to simultaneously absorb moisture and remove dry soiling

The new Coral entrance system collection is now effective at stopping up to 94% of all tracked in dirt,

making it 40% more effective


Floors, Walls & Ceilings

* [email protected] ( 0844 822 3928 028



The term ‘Subway tile’ has been around since 1904, when classic, white ceramic tiles were used to adorn New York subway stations. Just like many design originals, this style is now resurfacing with a twist. Italian tilemaker Trend’s new Subway collection, offering a variety of fashionable colours and unique pattern choices, brings Metro chic to the living room, hallway, dining area, bathroom and kitchen. Produced in the characteristically chunky 7.5 x 15cm rectangular format, Trend’s Subway introduces the contemporary appeal of hand-crafted glass mosaic and the distinctive note of Italian decorative design, to a much-loved traditional tile.

The historic Oakum House at Pembroke Dock has been restored and made fit for offices using Knauf GIFAfloor, levelling the listed building’s uneven floors and enabling eco-friendly underfloor heating to be installed. GIFAfloor is usually installed as a raised access flooring system that spans over pedestals. But in this case the floor could only

be raised between 38mm and 64mm, so building occupant Mustang Marine pinned the boards to battens overlaying the existing floors. The GIFAfloor is part of a sophisticated heating system that not only employs underfloor heating but recovers heat from the office’s server room and from air as it exits the ventilation system.

Crossgrip walkway matting, manufactured in the UK by Plastic Extruders, has been installed on the roof of a large Tesco Extra store in Pitsea, Essex. Crossgrip safety matting is an ideal solution for this type of application as many services are located on the roof. This means that defined walkways are necessary so that service engineers have safe access to maintain and repair at any time. Not only does the matting provide a permanent safe walkway, which is highly durable and slip resistant (R10 rating under DIN 51130) but it also protects the roof membrane from damage.

GIFAfloor brings 19th century floor up to date

All aboard the trend subway for style

* [email protected] ( 0800 044 5395 034

* [email protected] ( 01795 424499 032

Safety in the sky

* [email protected] ( 01268 571116 033

Troldtekt acoustic panels have been used to great effect in the design of the Music Cafe at the famous Aldeburgh Music development at Snape Maltings, founded by composer Benjamin Britten in derelict industrial buildings on the Suffolk coast. In order to reduce noise reverberation, the architects have used 160m2 of fine natural wood Troldtekt panels to create an attractive and high performance acoustic ceiling. “This is a real master class in the creative act of refurbishment, where the architects are very consciously selecting and evaluating the remaining fabric of a historic building,” said the judges for the annual RIBA Crown Estate Conservation Award.

All quiet at the music cafe

* [email protected]( 0844 8114877 029

Architects and specifiers seeking credits for schemes such as BREEAM and the Code for Sustainable Homes (CSH) can now do so using a comprehensive range of products from Knauf – a leading manufacturer of lightweight building materials and systems.Under the responsible sourcing standard BES 6001, Knauf achieved a performance rating of ‘Very Good’ covering the company’s laminated and non-laminated plasterboards and gypsum plasters. This applies to products

manufactured at both of the company’s UK factories at Immingham and Sittingbourne, and so provides designers with a wide selection of premium plasterboards and jointing, bonding and textured compounds that meet the requirements for responsible sourcing in building ratings.

Specifying Knauf gains BREEAM and CSH credits

* [email protected] ( 01795 424499 031

Vynagrip anti-slip matting, manufactured by Plastic Extruders, is a very durable and hardwearing matting widely used in all types of working environments to provide a permanent slip resistant surface in temperatures down to -26°C. An example of this is at a well-known fast food restaurant chain where it is used in frozen and chilled rooms to provide a comfortable and slip resistant walking surface. Since these areas often experience temperatures in excess of -20°C, it is vital to ensure safety underfoot and to protect workers from slipping on the frozen and icy floors.

Keeping fast food workers safe

* [email protected] ( 01268 571116 030



During the summer, ROCKPANEL, the facade panel manufacturer invited architects, planners, product

designers, specialists in related disciplines and students, to design a new, unique and creative stone-look product to reflect the facades of the future. A total of 52 designs were submitted from a wide range of European countries.

The winner of the ROCKPANEL Product Design Award ‘Stone becomes Art’ was Roman Baudisch, an Architectural Technician from Hamburg, with his design Volcano. As well as prize money of €5000, the winning design will be included in the ROCKPANEL stone range, to be launched for 2015. The Volcano design is now being further developed in close collaboration with the winner until it is ready for production.

The design awarded second place,

with prize money of €2000, was created by Marit Angenita Otto, a Dutch artist from Zwolle. Third prize was won by the Collective A from Münster, Germany, represented by B.A. Arch Ronny Zschörper and Franziska Adler.

The Product Design Award ceremony took place during the official opening of the new ROCKPANEL production facility in Roermond, the Netherlands, to which all the finalists were invited.

Prestigious judging panelIn September 2013, a panel of international and interdisciplinary experts from the fields of design, architecture and materials research considered and evaluated all the designs submitted. The panel members were Heike Klussmann, Professor of Graphic Art and Architecture at the University of Kassel, Germany; Enrica Mosciaro, Architect at Fusina6, with offices

in Verona and Barcelona; Luc Nooijen, Architect at Architecten Aan de Maas in Maastricht, the Netherlands; and John Relou, Business Development Manager of ROCKPANEL.

The key criteria for assessing the designs were feasibility, aesthetics, the uniqueness, versatility and creativity of the design and its popularity within the ROCKPANEL social media community.

Ultimately, the judges came to a unanimous decision. Heike Klussmann says: “The Volcano design is convincing thanks to its clear consistent reinterpretation of volcanic rock in the facade board design. An imaginary cut through the stone provides the inspiration and the starting point for the design and at the same time makes a playful reference to basalt, the base material for all ROCKPANEL board material.

“The airlocks in the stone made visible by the cut create a rhythmic, structured surface and open up a rich variation of approaches to style. The deliberate combination of outline and surface, of intermediate space and frame, of positive and negative, underlines the contrasts between three dimensional and surface effects in design. This is why the panel recommended that the implementation of the Volcano design should be taken forward.”

Under the title ‘Stone becomes Art’, the winner of the first European-wide ROCKPANEL Product Design Award was announced last month at the official opening of the new production facility in Roermond, The Netherlands.

ROCKPANEL announces award winner

The official opening of the new production facility, on 10th October in Roermond provided the right

opportunity for the ROCKPANEL award ceremony

Roman Baudisch, Architectural Engineer and winner of the ROCKPANEL Product Design

Award ‘Stone becomes Art’

* [email protected] ( 01656 863210 035




Mapei has been awarded Energy Saving Trust recommended certification for its external wall insulation system, Mapetherm System. The system utilises sustainable alternatives to traditional insulation materials and demonstrates the firm’s ongoing commitment to providing sustainable building solutions. The Energy Saving Trust recommended approved Mapetherm System consists of adhesive, insulation, base coat, mesh, primer and finish. The Energy Saving Trust is a non-profit charitable Foundation that gives evidence-based insight and advice to empower millions of people to lead affordable, low-energy lifestyles in order to help fight climate change.

Fila has introduced a new solvent-free, stain-proofing protector – FILAMP90 ECO PLUS. Launched at Cersaie 2013, the new high performance sealant is LEED-approved and developed for polished porcelain and natural stone surfaces. It can be applied internally and externally – with some residual moisture – and its water-based formula

cuts application time by up to 80%. FILA MP90 ECO is also GEV-EMICODE EC1PLUS certified and suitable for contact with foodstuffs. New FILAMP90 ECO PLUS joins Fila’s Green Line – a range of water-based, biodegradable products that have a very low VOC content. It provides protection against stains, without forming a film or altering natural surface colour.

Interface, the world’s largest modular flooring manufacturer, is preparing to launch a dedicated hospitality offering in Europe following its successful roll-out in the US. Interface Hospitality is part of the company’s strategy to expand its business beyond its corporate office heartland. Rob Boogaard, acting CEO for Interface in Europe, says: “The hospitality sector represents an exciting opportunity for Interface to grow its European business. There are challenges ahead as we break into what has traditionally been a broadloom-dominated sector, but we are confident that we have something fresh and new to offer.”

New surface protector joins Fila Green Line

Mapetherm gains Energy Saving Trust certification

* [email protected] ( 0121 508 6970 039

* [email protected] ( 01584 877286 037

Interface launches dedicated hospitality offering

* [email protected] ( 0161 817 6600 038

Designed and made here in the UK using the finest quality British glass, the newly relaunched Impact Glass collection offers architects, designers and specifiers an extensive portfolio of wall tiles, splashbacks and accessories, all created to provide maximum impact when it comes to creating inspiring interior design schemes.

The ideal way to discreetly add accents of colour popping glass to a design scheme or create a wow factor feature wall in an upmarket hotel development or exclusive residential scheme, the highly versatile Impact Glass range offers something to suit

every project.British Ceramic Tile’s Senior Product

Manager, Jayne Adamson, explained: “The relocation of glass production to our manufacturing facility in Devon provided the company with an ideal opportunity to review its glass offer and relaunch the range to customers under a new brand name, Impact Glass.

“The range now encompasses over 30 colour options from subdued pastels and bold brights through to decadent, rich jewel tones. With 18 different size formats, including a new large format 30 x 50cm tile

600 x 140mm glass upstand, Impact Glass is a truly versatile collection proving that glass tiles can bring decorative and functional solutions for many rooms and many a design project.”

Bursting with a kaleidoscope of colours, contemporary decors and on trend designs, British Ceramic Tile’s extended collection of glass products is set to make a big impact across the specification sector.

British Ceramic Tile makes an impact with new glass offer

* [email protected] ( 01626 831391 036

The electronics specialist retailer, Maplin is adding to its network of 205 stores across the UK and ROI. The new Rockfon Artic ceiling range and RockLink Grid system has been installed in five stores so far. Architects and Building Surveyors, Squires and Brown, specified the Artic range and Architectural Technician, Paul Riley explained the reasons behind their choice: “Maplin stores can be located on the high street or in large retail parks and sell a large range of electronic products within a clean, modern designed interior. We chose Artic ceiling tiles because they provide the qualities we wanted and are affordable.”

A leading supplier to the UK new build sector, Designer Contracts is celebrating after receiving two additional accreditations. The company has received a Constructionline and Exor accreditation, which demonstrates the company’s impeccable health and safety and reliability respectively. The Constructionline Accreditation is a UK Government certification service providing an up-to-date register of pre-qualified local and national suppliers to the construction industry and means that all of the company’s health and safety information can be viewed at one source, making it more convenient for the constructor. Exor accreditation demonstrates the company’s ability to meet the rigorous pre-qualification requirements within the private and public sectors.

Ancon’s latest CPD technical seminars have been independently assessed and approved by the Construction CPD Certification Service, confirming their educational value to architects and engineers as part

of a structured Continuing Professional Development training programme. The seminars, ‘Support and Restraint of Masonry Cladding on Framed Buildings’ and ‘Designing for Joints in Structural Concrete’, cover two technically challenging areas that are critical to efficient, cost-effective building design. Participants in the Masonry Cladding seminar will learn about the various types of cavity wall restraints and their design considerations, while the main focus of the Structural Concrete seminar is how to create simple, safe, high performance joints.

Designer Contracts gains more accreditations

Rockfon Artic is the ceiling of choice for retailer

* [email protected] ( 0800 389 031 041

* [email protected] ( 01246 854577 042

Ancon technical seminars now CPD approved

* [email protected] ( 0114 275 5224 043

Armstrong’s MicroLook micro-perforated 600mm x 600mm tiles with a B15 acoustic infill have been suspended from a Microlook Microline grid at Bracton House, a 23,000ft2, six-storey office building in High Holborn.

This is one of the first uses in the UK of the Microline grid system which combines an exposed sleeve for a clean and crisp visual with a practical threaded reveal for flexibility in partition fixing and relocation.

The system was specified for the £1.5m refurbishment by architects Stavros Nissiotis Architectural Studio for its quality, aesthetics and functionality but also because of the

standard of service the practice received from the manufacturer.

Designer Stavros Nissiotis, who had not used Armstrong systems before but was impressed by their use at Deusche Bank, said: “We specified the Armstrong products for the quality and look of them. But at the same time it was the nature of their response to our requirements that sealed the deal.”

The Armstrong metal tiles were installed by approved Omega contractor Diamond Interior Solutions on the concrete-framed building which now features a new main

entrance and double-height reception area alongside some original large arched windows as part of the six-month refurbishment.

The Armstrong tiles, which give 84% light reflectance and perform to sound absorption .60(H) and sound attenuation 41db, as well as comprise 30% recycled content, help give the open-plan spaces in a Conservation Area a light and airy feel.

Metal tiles from Armstrong Ceilings were specified for the stunning speculative refurbishment of a central London office building for a hat-trick of reasons.

London office receives new lease of life

* [email protected] ( 0800 371 849 040






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Collections of waste vinyl flooring from construction projects through the Recofloor take back scheme are rising as more firms recognise the economic and environmental benefits of recycling. The scheme was founded by manufacturers Altro and Polyflor to divert uplifted material and installation offcuts from landfill for use in new products. Recofloor’s Project Manager Jane Gardner commented: “Now that the national collection and recycling infrastructure is in place to handle waste vinyl flooring from all types of construction projects, large or small, building companies have everything to gain by using a sustainable and cost-saving alternative to landfill,” she said.

The Urban Retreat range from carpet tile manufacturer, Interface, has been used to bring the beauty of nature to the offices of environmentally responsible interior design specialists, EOS Interiors, in Birmingham. The interior fit-out contractor sought a flooring solution that would reflect its company values of creativity, inspiration and sustainability

and create a modern, stylish space in which to work with clients and showcase its design expertise. EOS Interiors specified carpet tiles from the Urban Retreat range, which is inspired by the increasingly popular notion of ‘biophilia’, a science defined by our intrinsic love of nature. This theme has been subtly complemented throughout the showroom.

The Tuscan Elite engineered wood flooring range has undergone some improvements to its specification. Bona lacquer has replaced the previous air-dried finish providing enhanced wear and performance of the timber boards. The core material has been changed over to a multi-ply base which offers greater dimensional stability. Three of the 15 effects on Tuscan Elite are also now available in a wider board width of 150mm, reflecting popular consumer demand for wider planks. The 150mm option is available initially on Barley, Toffee and Natural, in two finishes of brushed & lacquered and hand scraped.

Interior fit-out specialist leads by example

A boost in Recofloor vinyl collections

* [email protected] ( 0161 355 7618 046

* [email protected] ( 0161 817 6600 044

Improved specification with Tuscan Elite

* [email protected] ( 08457 298 298 045

Now nearly three times its original size, the 40,000 square foot store offers a host of new features including a customer

cafe. There are also 6500 new product lines including John Lewis products in the new Home section and new fish, meat, delicatessen and cheese counters. 119 extra jobs have been created with this £10m investment that means Waitrose has expanded to fill the entire Podium Shopping Centre.

Axis Automatic Entrance Systems fitted two pairs of swing doors at the main entrance, a pair of bipart sliding doors at the outer entrance giving access into the car park and another pair at the inner entrance. The rear entrance to the store was fitted with a pair of bipart sliding doors on the outer entrance but two pairs of swing doors at the inner entrance that leads directly into the Home section of the store. These automatic doors were supplemented by a manual swing door to the cafe and Axis also supplied a number of roller shutters.

Axis MD Rob Brunero said: “We were delighted to be involved with this impressive project. Everything went very smoothly and we are confident their new doors will give Waitrose many years of trouble free service.”

Axis Automatic Entrance Systems is based in Northampton and offers a full supply, installation and commissioning service complete for doors, aluminium entrances, facades and curtain walling as well as access control equipment and architectural ironmongery. It is the sole UK distributors of Stanley automatic door equipment but also install a wide range of other makes. There are now over 50,000 Stanley automatic door systems installed in the UK.

Axis Automatic Entrance Systems has installed a number of doors in the transformed Waitrose Food & Home store in the centre of Bath.

Axis Automatic Entrance Systems fitted two pairs of swing doors at the main entrance

A pair of bipart sliding doors at the inner entrance allows easy access to the

store directly from the car park


Doors, Windows & Balustrades

* [email protected] ( 0844 504 6545 049

Axis opens doors at Waitrose



European Wood Products Limited, which trades as European Doorsets (EDS), has announced that Roy Wakeman is joining the board as Chairman with immediate effect.Wakeman is currently Executive Chairman of The Performance Timber Products Group (PTPG), which claims the leading brands in the timber windows and doors sector, which includes Mumford & Wood, Timber Windows and Dale Windows. Roy comments: “I am really excited to have the opportunity of helping Paul, Neil and their colleagues at EDS to continue with their very successful growth story.”

Students at London Metropolitan University are benefiting from quality accommodation facilities, with uni_one composite windows, available from Uniform Architectural. 33-35 Commercial Road in Aldgate, East London, boasts almost 800 uni_one composite windows combining timber and aluminium – these allow students to experience and enjoy the comfort provided by the thermal insulation of the natural wood, whilst the client benefits from an ease of maintenance and longer life. Selected for its flexibility and capability to meet the site specifications, the uni_one was adapted to have a restricted tilt function and the turn mode also restricted to 100mm to comply with safety requirements.

Comar Architectural Aluminium Systems have developed and rigorously tested its aluminium window systems to meet the very latest performance and specification demands. The Comar range of solutions, Comar 5P.i and Comar 9P.i

High Performance window systems, offers specifiers a comprehensive single source solution that achieves an increased range of window sizes. Comar 9P.i offers optimum heightened performance in terms of weather and security. Comar 9P.i windows achieved market leading results in terms of water tightness at 900Pa. Security concerns are alleviated with the system exceeding the requirements of PAS 24:2012. Added to this, Comar 5P.i, Comar 9P.i and Comar 5P.i ECO windows hold Kite-marks for both systems supply and security.

System 1-35Hi+ is a new high performance, thermally enhanced top swing window that offers many advantages over other types of window. It is easily and safely cleaned from within the building by reversing the window through 180° and has safety restrictors built in to ensure that it can be restrained securely in the ventilation or reverse position. A risk assessment associated with cleaning windows from within a building, BS 8213: Pt.1:1991 (Table 1) rates this type of window as among the safest. Other advantages include the facility to reverse the window through 180° without the window projecting inwards into the room – avoiding possible damage to blinds and curtains.

The new state-of-the-art National Breeding Centre for Guide Dogs, which features extensive use of Technal’s aluminium window, door and curtain walling systems, has won its first award. Fabricated and installed by Elite Aluminium Systems, Technal’s GEODE-MX Visible Grid curtain walling system was used to deliver high levels of natural light to the areas accommodating the dogs and puppies, and the offices. It has created shaped ribbon clerestory glazing, main entrances and other curtain wall screens, contrasting with white render, cedar cladding and profiled metal cladding and roofing.

A new highly energy efficient, easy-to-clean fully reversible window is now available from leading profile manufacturer Profile 22. Ideal for both high and medium-rise applications, the new window has a rotational 180° pivot action allowing residents to safely clean the outer window panes from inside their home. It has been designed with a five chamber system and can incorporate argon filled triple glazing which enhances thermal performance. The product achieves a U-value of 0.8 and an A+ rating under the Window Energy Ratings scheme. The fully reversible window also has the ability to incorporate triple seals maximising thermal performance.

Comar window systems improve performance

Metal Technology extends Thermal range

European Wood Products appoints new Chairman

Windows of opportunity



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An infinite view combined with ultimate performance is offered with Hi-Finity – the new, ultra-slim and elegant large sliding door system launched and now available from Reynaers Aluminium. Revealed at Ecobuild earlier this year, this innovative new glazing system is designed to offer an uninterrupted view and seamless integration between interior and exterior without any compromise on performance – as the name Hi-Finity suggests. The aluminium profiles are designed to be integrated into the walls so the glazed surfaces extend from floor to ceiling creating the ultimate minimalistic appearance.

Senior Architectural Systems’ high performance SPW600 aluminium window system and SCW+ curtain wall system have been installed to stunning effect on Marlborough Road Primary School in Salford.As part of a major refurbishment of the building, Salford City Council’s Children Services Directorate took the decision to replace all the windows with Senior Architectural Systems’ SPW600 to provide a thermally efficient, high performance solution.Working closely with main contractor and installer Anders Glass, based in Salford, in excess of 100 Senior SPW600 aluminium windows of differing sizes and configurations were fabricated and installed in just five weeks during term time and whilst the school was fully operational.

Bespoke period sash windows, designed by Lomax + Wood have been installed in an early 19th century town house in Kensington, London. Bespoke sliding box sash windows, operated with traditional cords, brass pulleys and weights, were specified by the homeowners, partly based on word of mouth and recommendation, and partly because the company is locally based. Homeowner Martine comments: “We had some concerns about noise levels, not only from the infant school opposite, and the road, but mostly from the overhead flight path to

London Heathrow. We needn’t have worried. The timber frames quite literally absorb sound from entering the building and have tremendous acoustic qualities.”

Senior specified for school refurbishment

Hi-finity to offer seamless panoramic views

* [email protected] ( 0121 421 1999 057

* [email protected] ( 01709 772600 058

Lomax + Wood retains heritage appeal

* [email protected] ( 020 8616 2187 059


Developed by CPL and designed by architects Squire and Partners, the apartments and penthouses are finished to the highest quality specification, offering residents stunning views across London and Canary Wharf.

The ground floor areas to all four blocks were completed in 2013 with Smart Architectural Aluminium’s MC Curtain Walling system installed by Avdon Bristol

Limited, one of the company’s specialist partners. With in excess of 1600m2 of curtain walling installed and including Smart Wall commercial entrance doors, the system perfectly completes the development which contains cafe areas as well as a Tesco convenience store.

Completed for the Landmark project in a polyester powder coated grey finish, the slim profiles of the Smart MC Wall curtain walling system allow maximum light into both single and multi-storey buildings, with a special feature transom cap with concealed mullions for uninterrupted ‘glass to glass’ joints. The versatile, polyamide thermal break system, may also incorporate a top hung frameless vent and can accommodates any of the company’s windows and doors.

Commenting on the completed project, Trevor Evans from Avdon says: “Landmark is a stunning development right in the heart of London and we were delighted to have developed and installed a Smart system to complete the project, with MC Wall providing the perfect solution for the programme.”

Situated at the heart of London’s Canary Wharf, the two towers that make up the Landmark development comprise 804 prestige apartments and penthouses on 45 and 30 floors respectively, together with two lower-level buildings that are situated around a central courtyard.

Smart completes major London landmark

* [email protected] ( 01934 876100 056




a total solution for architectural glazing

• atriums • rooflights • shuffle glazing• facades • balustrade • framed glazing• canopies • conservatories • structural glazing• partitions • walk on floors • frameless glazing

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Tel: 01842 816080

FCA_90x122_2013-05-17.indd 1 17/05/2013 11:56:38

AluK (GB), a leading aluminium window, door and curtain walling systems manufacturer, provides specifiers and architects with a complete range of systems to suit the needs of any commercial or residential project. The 58BW ST window range has been developed to retro fit mansion blocks, warehouses and similar buildings where steel windows have been traditionally fitted. Available in a range of styles, the 58BW ST window system replicates the narrow sight lines associated with steel windows and includes hardware that is sympathetic to the traditional steel window design. AluK also offers the ability to download a complete range of CAD files and BIM components for its products.

James Tobias, a leading storagewall manufacturer, is consolidating its position in the UK market with the launch of a new sliding door product. Complementing the established hinge door variants, the sliding door product is especially suitable for installations where a neat or space-efficient

solution is required. The sliding door offers all the established benefits of the James Tobias storagewall range. These include: manufacture using structured aluminium carcass offering up to two-and-a-half times better weight loadings, compared to pegboard systems; full floor-to-ceiling design for 20% better space utilisation and the ability to partition office space; and off-site construction to minimise disruption during installation.

As part of a national refurbishment programme for McDonald’s, the installation of high quality automatic doors from DORMA at 169 restaurants across the UK is proving vital in delivering the utmost levels of safety and convenience. DORMA’s modern, sleek and stylish automatic doors help to provide a reliable and pleasant experience for customers entering the restaurants, as well as offering a stable and comfortable environment for those dining inside. Designed to meet the functional and aesthetic requirements of virtually every automatic sliding door application,DORMA ES 200 automatic door operators were specified for their sleek design, reliability and service backup.

James Tobias launches new sliding door product Steel replacement

window system from AluK

* [email protected] ( 01633 810440 062

* [email protected] ( 01278 437300 060

DORMA sets a high standard with McDonald’s

* [email protected] ( 01462 477600 061

Unit 2 Forth Industrial Estate, Sealcarr Street,Granton, Edinburgh, EH5 1RF

tel.0131 551 2931 fax.0131 551 2932freephone.0800 316 6031

[email protected] www.slimliteglass.co.uk


Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms

Gainsborough Specialist Bathing has manufactured high quality assisted baths in the UK for almost 30 years. Its bathing

solutions have a proven reputation for providing trusted reliability, comfort and durability in long term care and acute care settings.

A new range of accessible wet rooms from Gainsborough, which deliver the same outstanding levels of performance and care, now complements its selection of baths and recently launched shower modules. These stylish wet rooms offer architects, designers and contractors with

a stylish, yet exceptionally durable solution that meets the challenges encountered in specialist bathing environments. Developed with users, carers and designers in mind, these new wet rooms enhance the bathing experience through considered, ergonomic design.

Gordon Farmiloe, Care in Bathing Managing Director commented: “As we continue to innovate within the specialist bathing sector, we are totally committed to delivering solutions that improve the bathing experience. We understand, from an architect’s perspective, there is an increasing need for a variety of different bathing and

showering solutions to meet the challenges faced in modern healthcare developments. Following extensive research and development, in addition to comprehensive safety and compliance testing, we are extremely proud to launch this new wet room range to the market. We believe our new wet rooms will reiterate why Gainsborough continues to be the leader in specialist bathing.”

Suitable for new-build or refurbishment projects, the new ergonomic wet room range from Gainsborough provides a flexible bathing solution that can be tailored to meet individual project needs. Each wet room incorporates a wet deck area with level access and slip resistant flooring in a variety of colours so accessibility and safety is maximised. A range of decorative wall paneling is also available in seven attractive finishes, including white marble, white gloss and white diamond stone effects.

Gainsborough’s wet room system is available with a flat shower screen or half-height shower doors that include MicroGuard antimicrobial protection technology to assist with infection control. There is a choice of TMV2 and TMV3 shower units or a BEAB Care Approved electric care shower with thermostatic controls. An integrated, soft-touch padded shower seat with folding armrests is also incorporated along with a fluted grab rail.

With a network of skilled fitters working nationwide, Gainsborough also provides a complete end-to-end service from concept to completion, including room design, site surveys, delivery, full installation and commissioning.

Gainsborough Specialist Bathing, one of Europe’s leading choices in hi-lo assisted baths, has launched a new range of assisted wet rooms suitable for a wide variety of healthcare developments.

GSB launches new accessible wet room range

Gainsborough Specialist Bathing has launched a new range of assisted wet rooms designed for use in a

variety of healthcare developments

Each wet room incorporates a wet deck area with level access and slip resistant flooring in a variety of colours

* [email protected] ( 0800 542 9194 065


Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms


The Mira Calibre is not only the thinnest vertical valve on the market but also showcases Mira Showers’ engineering excellence as it achieves its elegant profile by integrating a 25mm mixer valve within the vertical riser rail. Its Magniflow technology generates up to three times more water flow than standard mixer showers – even on systems as low as 0.1 bar so those who can’t avoid low water pressure can still experience showering perfection. Providing safety for all the family, CoolShield ensures that the valve body remains cool to the touch when the shower is in use.

Nicholls & Clarke has launched its new complete Commercial Washrooms Collection catalogue packed with over 120 pages of quality products suited to all projects requirements across industry sectors. With a huge choice of products from entry level solutions for projects on a tight budget, to high end solutions the new catalogue caters to anyone involved in commercial washroom design and installation. Offering the complete washroom package, the impressive new catalogue consists of hundreds of washroom products that help overcome the fundamental and key issues surrounding commercial washrooms including hygiene, safety, vandal resistance, water conservation plus ease of installation and maintenance.

Shower Styling by Showerwall offers designers and specifiers the option of bespoke digital printed wall panelling to give a unique signature design to any bathroom, while also guaranteeing easy installation and maintenance.Aimed primarily at the commercial sector for use in hotels, spas and leisure clubs, Shower Styling offers the design freedom for corporate or themed designs to be incorporated into the shower

areas. The product is also available to independent bathroom retailers looking to create a unique, one-off design for the discerning customer. Any design can be digitally printed and encapsulated sub-surface in the high performance, high pressure laminate.

N&C launches complete Commercial Washroom Catalogue Mira’s Calibre

offers thin stuff

* [email protected] ( 01242 221221 068

* [email protected] ( 0845 605 1345 066

Innovative Shower Styling by Showerwall

* [email protected] ( 0845 604 7334 067


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Roofing, Cladding & Insulation

The headquarters of a large office stationery supplier in Leicester is a stunning showcase for the Kalwall daylighting system. Here, nearly 1800m2 of the translucent cladding as a wrap-around for the three storey building. The Kalwall system was specified because of its unique ability to diffuse daylight and distribute it evenly and deeply across the interior. This natural light creates the ideal ambience for working or learning, using computers and for improving personal well-being. Unlike conventional glazing, the system eliminates shadows and glare and the stark contrasts of light and shade without any need for solar control.

This private dwellinghouse in Aberdeenshire has used Roofshield breather membrane, supplied by the A. Proctor Group. The architectural design is particulary distinctive being of circular form with split dual sloping roof. The construction form is based on high thermal efficiency timber frame using Scotframes Val-U-Therm system. The roof was particularly difficult with its geometry, almost like slating the inside of a bowl. 2.5 tonnes of Burlington Best random width slate has been laid on the roof. Roofshield has unique vapour and air permeability characteristics, which allows even the most complex of pitched roofs to breathe – without the need for traditional air gaps or secondary venting products.

Safesite Limited has been recognised for its outstanding work within the safety industry at this year’s British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) Awards 2013. The BSIF is the UK’s leading trade body within the safety industry and with over 160 members it aims to provide support and guidance on a wide range of occupational safety issues. The prestigious awards gala dinner took place on 7th October at the Guoman Tower Hotel, London. Safesite was awarded the Corporate Contribution

Award, which celebrates the contribution of a company to the work of the British Safety Industry Federation throughout the previous 12 months.

Roofshield used in complex roof

Kalwall lights up offices

* [email protected] ( 01233 501504 072

* [email protected] ( 01250 872261 073

Safesite takes home BSIF award

* [email protected] ( 01293 529977 074

With an airflow rating of 25,000mm² per running metre, the Roof Abutment Ventilator from Cavity Trays of Yeovil provides a novel way of achieving compliance, and does so in a manner that is compatible with the damp protection measures demanded within the Building Regulations.

A timber upstand is fixed to the existing wall utilising vertical stand-off battens to maintain an airflow path between it and around the decking edge. The Type RAV-FL is secured by opening like a book and fixing via its pre-drilled holes to the top of the timber upstand. The remaining section of the ventilator is then closed so it finishes

against the masonry where it also is secured through its pre-drilled holes. The ventilator is now in position and can be overdressed with the protective flashing of the obligatory cavitray at the appropriate stage in the building programme.

Ventilation at the opposite side of the extension can be provided by a choice of ventilators offered by Cavity Trays of Yeovil, pending whether a soffit, fascia or hidden flow path is preferred.

The expanding range of products offered by Cavity Trays to protect the building envelope offer the specifier new efficient construction options that are compatible and performance warranted.

* [email protected] ( 01935 474769 071

There is commonly a requirement to provide roof ventilation when extending a property. Where a flat roof extension is added to an existing building, provision is required at the attachment point (the roof/wall intersection) with corresponding ventilation opposite on the outer edge of the extension.

Venting an extension at the join


Enquiry 076Online

Mustang®-the ‘Must have’ Gutter System!

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Roofing, Cladding & Insulation

It was to be no ordinary construction, eight shipping containers stacked in pairs were to create the structure of the two-storey building and a glazed link running the entire length of the building would flood the restaurant with natural daylight.

It was agreed that DVS’ continuous barrel-vault rooflight would provide the perfect solution for the glazed atrium and so the company worked closely with Softroom Architects to ensure the detailing and product specification was correct from the beginning. It was decided that five

1200 x 2000mm opening ventilation flaps should be incorporated into the rooflight to provide natural ventilation.

Once du Boulay Contracts were appointed as principle building contractor DVS secured the order for the design, manufacture, supply and installation of the rooflight. The final rooflight dimension was for a roof opening size of: 1.7m wide x 24m long, complete with the five equally spaced opening flaps.

Due to the delivery schedule of the shipping containers (six delivered in phase one with the balance two delivered some

three weeks later), du Boulay asked DVS to conduct its rooflight installation in two phases.

Once the last container had been lifted into position DVS returned to site to complete its rooflight installation. In just two days DVS had completed phase two of the installation, including mounting the five opening flaps and 230v motors. du Boulay were then able to complete the internal fit out in a water-tight building envelope and get the project completed and handed over on-time.

* [email protected] ( 01284 749051 077

Oxford Street based London Softroom Architects contacted Daylight and Ventilation Solutions (DVS) to discuss a very unique project – they had been commissioned to design a new restaurant for the Mexican tapas chain Wahaca. This new pop-up restaurant was being planned for installation on the outdoor terrace of the Queen Elizabeth Hall at the Southbank Centre – a very exciting and vibrant area of the capital.

DVS sheds light on new pop up restaurant

Dow Building Solutions has made its core range of STYROFOAM-A and XENERGY thermal insulation products available as Building Information Modelling (BIM) objects through the National Building Specification (NBS) National BIM library. The new BIM objects – which include ROOFMATE, FLOORMATE, PERIMATE and XENERGY extruded polystyrene (XPS) products – are also available via the company’s website at www.styrofoam.co.uk. The National BIM Library is the construction industry’s free-to-use resource of NBS standard BIM content. Dow Building Solutions’ objects are available in industry-neutral Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) format and formats compatible with Autodesk Revit, ArchiCAD, Vectorworks, Tekla and Bentley.

STYROFOAM and XENERGY BIM objects launched

With the NHBC’s decision to make dry fixing mandatory, Klober’s new Uni-Click Dry Verge Plus offers the ideal solution for both roofers and merchants. Its 260-350mm batten gauge makes it ideal for virtually every large and medium format concrete tile in the UK while, for Scottish contractors it can also be used with Scotcem interlocking tiles. The Uni-Click Dry Verge Plus has a built-in drip tray and can be used for either new build or refurbishment on roofs from 12.5° to 90°. It is available in four colours with matching eaves closures, ridge closures and ridge end caps.

Uni-Click Dry Verge Plus for total flexibility

* [email protected] ( 01332 813050 078

* [email protected] ( 020 3139 4190 079

Fakro has been awarded Passive House certification for its quadruple-glazed FTT U8 Thermo roof window. Its U-value of 0.58W/m2K is by far the best available in a standard product, achieved using a specially designed glazing unit and thermal flashing. Thermoplastic elastomer seals ensure long-term retention of elasticity and airtightness while warm spacers between panes minimise risk of thermal bridging. Additional

benefits include a raised pivot point, topSafe anti-burglary protection and an operating handle in the base of the sash which locks the window on both sides of the frame.

Fakro roof window gains Passive House approval

* [email protected] ( 0845 021 3030 080



Exclusive Contemporary Staircases Characterized By Sleek Minimal Lines

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Ampteam’s new economical, eco friendly, high quality gutter lining system has been designed as an alternative for bituminised bandage applications, coatings and roll out plastic liners and is priced aggressively to fulfi l the requirements of today’s refurbishment market.

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The latest innovation from ventilation expert Aereco is the fully demand controlled MVHR system, the DXR. Aereco DXR is engineered to automatically adjust ventilation according to the specific needs of each room when other products in the market propose constant or globally controlled airflows. Modulation enables a significant reduction of the average airflows while providing excellent air quality. Heat losses on average are halved in comparison with a constant airflow ventilation system. The heat exchanger operates with a yield of around 85% recovery thereby achieving in the region of 92% energy savings compared with a MEV system.

DXR to achieve 92% energy savings


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The self-regulating flap ventilator Invisivent EVO AK is almost invisible from the outside and from the inside you only see the internal tip lever. It offers a maximum airflow of 15.9 l/s/m at 2Pa and a sound reduction in open position up to 48dB.

The Fixscreen 150EVO is a truly wind-resistant and insect proof screen in every position. But there is more to say. Besides the current Softline box design, RENSON has come up with a new sleek Square design in response to the strong market demand. The discreet bottom rail disappears into the box: completely up to a height of 2700mm and partially up to a

height of 6000mm. This Fixscreen 150EVO is suitable for all surfaces up to 22m².

The Camargue and Algarve terrace coverings combine an aluminium structure with a roof, made of rotatable blades. The water on the blades is drained away. These terrace coverings can be equipped with lights, heating elements and flat panel speakers. By incorporating wind-resistant screens, glass sliding doors or sliding panels, they become extra outdoor spaces that offer protection against sun, wind and rain.

RENSON aims to create a healthy, comfortable and energy efficient indoor climate using natural ventilation and sun protection.

RENSON helps create healthy spaces

Jaga Heating Products UK has released its first ever Electronic Guide which is available as a free download, intended to help architects and engineers make informed decisions when identifying solutions for facade heating applications. Titled A Guide to Facade Heating, the free and informative download is the first in a series of Jaga eGuides, which will cover important heating and ventilation design problems. While the guide discusses different approaches to facade heating, it focuses on trench heating technology as the ideal solution for mitigating heat loss through facades and preventing condensation as well as effective space heating with cooling and ventilation when required.

Jaga launches eGuide portfolio with facade heating

* [email protected] ( 01531 631533 087

Reynolds Furniture selected JS Air Curtains’ Finesse and Optima air curtains to maintain the internal atmosphere while complementing its modern interior design. A 1m Finesse concealed air curtain was installed flush with the ceiling over the back door, whilst a 2m Mini Optima was suspended above the automatic sliding doors at the main

customer entrance. Brian Ritchie from South Coast Refrigeration project managed the installation: “Having previously enjoyed a problem-free relationship with JS Air Curtains, we turned again to this local supplier. We knew we could rely on the performance of the air curtains and that this kit would be easy to install unobtrusively at both entrance points.”

Reynolds Furniture relies on local supplier

* [email protected] ( 01903 858656 086


HVAC/HVP

* [email protected] ( 01622 754123 084



apollo monza aluminium column radiator

www.apolloradiators.co.uk

modern contemporary aluminium column radiatorideal for low temperature renewable systems

unique design, half the weight of steelvertical and horizontal in 40 different sizes

3 days delivery for white, 7 days for colour (46 to choose from)

Economic, effi cient and environmentally friendly, Speedheat’s unique electrical underfl oor heating is proven in every respect and is easy to install under any fl oor fi nish,in any room or as a primary heating system. The nationwide franchise of highly trained engineers are able to calculate exactly what is needed and provide professional installation and a full back-up service.

Iona House, Stratford Road, Wicken, Milton Keynes, MK19 6DF Tel 01908 562211 Email: [email protected] www.speedheat.co.uk

LUXURIOUSLY WARM

all over the house

You will never see us but you’ll always appreciate us!

COMFORT FROM THE GROUND UP

Enquiry 088Online


Drainage & Landscaping

Yeoman Rainguard has added attractive Rain Cups and Chains to its range of rainwater systems. Manufactured from Copper, one of the few metals that is fully sustainable, the rain cups and chains prove to be an environmentally friendly, naturally durable, decorative addition to a project. Yeoman Rainguard Copper Rain Chains & Cups are available in a wide range of designs and profiles making it the perfect finishing touch on any house, conservatory or garden building.

Attractive Rain Cups and Chains from Yeoman Rainguard

Grassroad is a unique hardened structure, a tough hard-standing material and offers a very easy to lay option that can achieve 95% grass coverage. An interlocking honeycomb structure, enabling a grass cover in excess

of 90% and available in either black or green, the system offers the ideal solution where a low visible intrusion and occasional use is required.

Grassroad can be complemented by use

of the company’s dry-fix grasskerb edge restraints; providing a low cost and visually sympathetic solution.

Grass Concrete enjoys the benefit of offering both concrete and plastic varieties of grass permeable paving, and operates a strict fit for purpose policy. For heavy duty use and load bearing then the company’s Grasscrete is the recommended choice, available in varieties of sizes dependent on location.

Where there is a requirement for green landscaped environments Grasscrete’s added advantage of traffic weight loads up to 40-tonnes can make all the difference, especially for car parking areas, overspill or emergency access vehicles.

For commercial and housing developments Grasscrete is widely utilised for both its strong structural qualities up to 40-tonne traffic weight and natural SUDS qualities including water attenuation at a rate of 8m/second. Attenuation ponds close to developments often incorporate Grasscrete, helping reduce peak demand on main sewer infrastructure while gaining a landscaped amenity.

Grassroad plastic paving is fit for purpose

Grassroad plastic paving has become a proven system designed for use where light trafficking applications are called for – overflow car parks, grass verge hardening and embankments. Plastic paving relies on the grass root for anchorage coupled with load bearing capability of the sub base – regular trafficking can limit the effectiveness of plastic systems.


Yeoman Rainguard, a leading provider of quality rainwater systems, has responded to customer demand by adding the TX Cast Iron Soil Pipes to its range. Low maintenance and cost effective, Yeoman Rainguard TX Cast Iron Soil Pipes can save substantially on labour and installation time due to the push socket jointing system which eliminates the need for special jointing tools or equipment. Designed to complement Yeoman Rainguard Cast Iron and Aluminium XL rainwater systems, the TX range is a perfect choice for new build, conservation and listed building projects. Yeoman Rainguard can also supply rainwater systems in Aluminium, GRP, Cast Iron, Copper, Zinc and Stainless Steel.

Reliable solutions in the pipeline

* [email protected] ( 0113 279 5854 094092

* [email protected] ( 01924 379443 091

A high performance PE pipe suitable for rainwater harvesting, grey water and irrigation applications, Enviro-Line from GPS features the distinctive green stripe recommended by the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme and the National Joint Utilities Group. It has been launched to help specification of sustainable commercial and residential developments, providing a flexible and durable re-useable water infrastructure that avoids the risk of cross contamination with potable water supplies thanks to its black with green stripe colour coding. Available as a flexible PE80 or, for larger projects, PE100 pipe, Enviro-Line offers all the usual advantages of PE, including a 100 year+ service life.

Enviro-Line’s sustainable solution for re-usable water

* [email protected] ( 01480 442623 093


Enquiry 096Online

Instant Sustainable Security FencingMobilane Green Screens provide a perimeter security solution which is sustainable and environmentally friendly with a wide range of uses. Call us today to find out more.

GREENSCREENS

Mobilane (UK) Ltd, PO Box 449, Packmoor, Stoke on Trent ST6 9AE

+44(0)7711 895261 | [email protected] | www.mobilane.co.uk

Easy to install and maintain

Improves air quality including reducing PM10s

Graffiti preventative

10 yr guarantee on frame


Enquiry 095Online

Stelrad Radiators’ sector leading low surface temperature radiator range has seen a new model – the LST i Plus – added to the LST Standard and the LST Plus options – offering the perfect solution for heating systems in buildings where vulnerable people need to be protected from the levels of surface heat emitted from a standard radiator – in particular children and older people. The LST i Plus is supplied with the addition of an integral remote sensing thermostatic valve to allow adjustment of room air temperature, as well as an arthritic adaptor and additional components to discourage unauthorised tampering.

Stelrad adds new model to leading LST range

* [email protected]( 0870 849 8056 100

With an estimated 80% of the population now living in towns and cities, increasing urbanisation is an undeniable truth of 21st century living. Santa & Cole recognises this, developing products that are not only supremely functional, but also exquisitely designed to enhance the city landscape.

Its range is extensive, encompassing, amongst other items, benches, chairs, bins, and tree grids, alongside a breathtaking range of street and pedestrian lighting

solutions. Santa & Cole offers a unique perspective on urban elements, a perspective that is earning them plaudits across Europe.

Sustainability is a key criterion in the development of any Santa & Cole product. The company strives to ensure that all elements uphold key principles of sound product design, using recycled materials and ensuring the end product is as recyclable as possible. This uncompromising

approach has led to the development of the NeoRomantico Liviano bench, one of only 2 benches worldwide to attain the coveted ‘Cradle-to-Cradle’ status.

To order a copy of the Santa & Cole brochure or to book an introduction to the product range, contact Timberplay direct.

Kitchen design company, Lida Cucina, has announced a new range of Italian-built kitchen furniture. The new products offer a number of exclusive and unique design characteristics, to enable the company to fulfil its promise of designing and installing truly bespoke kitchens. Unique characteristics of the new range include the ability to select exact colour matching and finishes, as well as being able to specify precise measurements for the furniture, rather than being constrained to standard modular elements. The new kitchen furniture will further extend Lida Cucina’s range of products, which includes kitchens, dressing rooms, fitted wardrobes and media furniture.

Lida Cucina announces own-brand bespoke kitchen range

* [email protected] ( 01189 241605 102

The new collection of saunas, Rope and HSH (an acronym which stands for Home Sweet Home) are the result of a new collaboration between Meneghello Paolelli Associati and the renowned Italian bathroom furnishing company Glass Idromassaggio. ROPE is a unique sauna environment characterised by an immediate sense of transparency and lightness. It is a neutral space, with smooth continuous surfaces made from upright panels creating a luxurious textured base. Three levels of seating running horizontally – in opposition to the vertical walls – separate the space and appear to be completely suspended by ropes. The sense of lightness is reinforced by the introduction of a completely transparent front wall.

Luxurious, country -house inspired sauna

* [email protected] ( 0039 0422 7146 101

* [email protected] ( 0114 282 3474 099

Barcelona is renowned as a city of cutting-edge design, exemplified within the striking streetscapes abundant around the city. One of the key exponents of the transformation of Barcelona in the late 1980’s, Santa & Cole represents an inspirational approach to street furniture and lighting. Timberplay is proud to represent this world-leading organisation within the UK.

Santa & Cole enhances the UK streetscape, with Timberplay


Building Elements


Building Elements

Prime Minister, David Cameron, visited the Portakabin manufacturing centre and international headquarters in York last month and has welcomed the Group’s announcement that it is expanding its operations in Europe with plans to open its first hire and visitor centres in Luxembourg and in Toulouse in the south west of France. Derek Carter, Chief Executive of the Portakabin Group, said: “We were delighted to welcome the Prime Minister here in York. We believe we have a unique position in the market, which is not currently being served in Luxembourg and so this latest expansion offers huge potential and opportunity for Portakabin.”

Saracen Interiors has now completed the £250,000 project it undertook earlier this year to fit out the reception area of a global environmental services provider’s Hammersmith offices. Work was completed within 13 weeks. The project, which was awarded based on the quality of Saracen’s previous work for this client, involved around-the-clock activity and careful management to accommodate the building’s existing tenants. Work included the replacement of existing ceilings and installation of lighting, including LED lighting, Inverto lights, hanging glass pendants and other feature lighting. The reception desk and walls were newly cladded and a security office was installed, complete with a working kitchen.

Off-site construction specialist, Yorkon, has handed over five ancillary buildings as part of the new £54m Reading Train Care Depot. Yorkon has provided a three-storey depot administration building, two ancillary buildings for train maintenance and cleaning staff, a security gate house, and a further train care accommodation building. The steel-framed modules for each building were manufactured off-site

at the Yorkon production centre in York to minimise disruption on this very busy site. The main office building features an architectural ‘butterfly wing’ roof and a rainscreen cladding system finished in white with bands of bright green for a distinctive appearance.

Saracen completes Hammersmith project Prime Minister

visits Portakabin factory

* [email protected] ( 0845 401 0010 108

* [email protected] ( 0870 743 0920 106

Yorkon specified as part of redevelopment scheme

* [email protected] ( 0845 2000 123 107

Fugalite Eco Invisible, the new grout and adhesive from Kerakoll is made from a mixture of tiny, pure glass beads and a transparent resin giving an opalescent semi-transparent substance which reflects the diffused light, making it look the same colour as the tiles around it and renders the joint practically invisible. It is ideal for use with butt jointed wood and marble effect ceramic tiles as well as glass mosaics for which it can also be used as an adhesive. It is fully resistant to water, stains and dirt, and easy to apply and clean due to its smooth waterproof surface.

Invisible grout and adhesive from Kerakoll

* [email protected]( 01527 578000 103

The issue of heat loss at the perimeter floor/wall junction, as well as other cold bridges around the building envelope can be addressed through the use of Thermoblock, manufactured by Marmox. The loadbearing composite product has been developed to be incorporated into various wall constructions as a horizontal layer, equivalent to a course of bricks. In the wall/floor junction, Enhanced Construction Details can cut heat loss by between 35 and 55%; but utilising Thermoblocks can reduce CO2 emissions still further to between 60 and 90%, offering an important contribution to the points required in achieving CSH Level 4 or above.

Marmox Thermoblock supporting perimeter energy saving

* [email protected] ( 01634 835290 105

Here are a few reasons to specify electrical accessory specialist Focus SB. Firstly, it has a quality product. Secondly, the company offers short lead times, and, thirdly, there is no minimum charge. Senior Designer Monique Tollgard from Staffan Tollgard Design has commented: “We find Focus SB very enjoyable and nice to work with. Their products are good and value for money. Also, I think they have a full range and know their product well. They have breadth as well as depth.” Bespoke electrical accessories are what Focus SB do best. The products look stylish, are very well made and highly functional.

Stylish accessories for a lasting impression

* [email protected] ( 01424 858060 104

Portakabin has been awarded Customer Service Excellence (CSE) accreditation – the Government standard which assesses and recognises organisations with outstanding performance in customer service. David Shaw, Marketing Director of the Portakabin Group, said: “Our aim has always been to have the customer at the heart of everything we do, and we have a host of initiatives and processes in place to help us deliver a truly customer-focused service and culture across the business. This latest accreditation gives us independent recognition of our performance excellence in this area and against national standards.”

Portakabin gains accreditation for customer service

* [email protected]( 0845 401 0020 110

The unusual sloping roofs of the new Velux HQ stand out immediately, and as Zita explains: “The linear lay-out of the building does not conform to any conventional right angles and is an attempt to reflect the undulating local landscape.”

Built on two levels, with 1750m2 of usable area, the new headquarters incorporates offices, showrooms and training rooms. The facade and roof are made from a titanium zinc outer shell and balconies are incorporated

around the perimeter. The prevention of thermal bridging is critical. Because apart from resultant heat and energy loss, condensation and mould growth can develop as well.

One of the most effective countermeasures on the market is the Isokorb structural thermal break from Schöck, a product range that allows connections to be made between concrete-to-concrete, concrete-to-steel and steel-to-steel.

For Velux, the Isokorb type KS was the ideal

solution. It is a concrete-to-steel connectivity module that sits between the outer and inner structural connection points and blocks the outflow of heat through the use of high quality polystyrene insulation foam.

This core sits inside a compression module with stainless steel bars passing through it which take the tension and shear forces between the building frame and the balconies. The Isokorb thereby enables a thermally insulated, load bearing connection to be made between reinforced concrete and steel construction components, and at the same time provides a clean and unobtrusive connection detail.

Anti-corrosion and sealing specialist Winn & Coales International recently held its Denso International Conference in September. This event is held at a different location each time and this year the venue was at the company headquarters in London to celebrate and mark the company’s 130th Anniversary. Delegates from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, South Africa, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Italy were involved over the course of a week with technical presentations and product application demonstrations on their main brands; Denso, Premier, SeaShield, Protal and Archco-Rigidon. The conference was then rounded off by a series of subsidiary board meetings.

Winn & Coales 130th Anniversary International Conference

* [email protected] ( 0208 670 7511 112

Foremans Relocatable Building Systems, the UK’s largest supplier of refurbished Portakabin buildings, has achieved accreditation to the Government standard for Customer Service Excellence (CSE) in recognition of its consistently outstanding performance in customer service. According to Mike Williams, Managing Director of Foremans: “We believe we are the first supplier of refurbished and recycled modular buildings to achieve this widely recognised accreditation – and that it sets us apart from other suppliers in this sector. It demonstrates our unrivalled commitment to customer-focused delivery and to genuinely engaging with our customers at every stage of the process – from initial enquiry to the handover and commissioning of each building.”

Foremans recognised for customer service excellence

* [email protected] ( 01964 544344 111

* [email protected] ( 01865 290890 109

After many years in its original building, the Austrian headquarters of Velux, the Danish window and skylight company, has moved to a new administrative facility more in keeping with the contemporary style of the company. Architect Werner Zita designed a building to reflect the local ambition of introducing more modern architectural styles to this traditional area of Lower Austria.

Schöck Isokorb solution for Velux headquarters


Building Elements

To enhance Stannah’s level of service, the company has now published an invaluable infographic, white paper and is offering registered customers the chance to enter a draw for an iPad mini too!

The choices are widening and the subtle differences between Stannah’s broad range of passenger-moving vertical lifts can be confusing. So this well-respected lift supplier has made things a little easier.

With six vertical passenger-carrying lifts in the current Stannah product range, all differing slightly and providing slightly different solutions it’s time to clearly define the similarities and the differences, the advantages and disadvantages of each product. The aim is to ensure the lift chosen provides the best solution for your immediate needs, meets all your legal requirements and, at the same time,

remains the right choice for your building in years to come by considering the life-cycle costs too.

Make life easier – access the Stannah ‘select the right lift’ infographic, register for their comprehensive white paper (coming soon) and put your name into a monthly draw to win an iPad mini. Simply go to: http://www.stannahlifts.co.uk/win-an-ipad

When it comes to the world of lifts, Stannah can be relied on. Almost 150 years of lift expertise really does mean they can give customers the best advice when it comes to lift specification.

Make an informed choice with Stannah

* [email protected] ( 01264 364311 113


Building Elements


Half Pages:Layout 2 30/8/12 16:09 Page 11

Half Pages:Layout 2 30/8/12 16:09 Page 11


Building Elements

System 3 is a fully tested column mounted safety barrier system that uses tensioned steel rods and infill mesh panels to provide

the impact resistance to meet the demands of BS EN 1991-1-1 2002 Annex B, the European Standard that has superseded BS 6399 Part 1 1996, however the system is compliant with sustaining a 150kn load.

With a zero footprint in the parking bay, System 3 allows architects to maximise the parking space available, while providing a flexible system that ‘gives’ on impact to minimise damage to vehicles and the barrier itself. In addition the low deflection figures means the barriers will not foul and damage other components of the car park such as cladding or, as at Cheshire Oaks, plant pods, vines and creepers.

Berry Systems installed the barriers all round the perimeter of the upper deck and on both sides of the two way vehicle ramp. Specially curved sections were fabricated

for the eastern corner of the deck where the car park is shaped to provide wider access to the ramp.

The unique design of System 3 also provides an integral pedestrian handrail

and anti-climb mesh and the non-snagging panels protect against torn clothing and skin abrasions. These panels can also feature logos or other graphics to enhance the overall corporate aesthetics. The system is low maintenance and any necessary repairs can be carried out quickly and economically. System 3 is installed from the parking deck eliminating the need for scaffolding or other access equipment.

The Marks and Spencer Cheshire Oaks Car Park won the Best New Car Park at the 2013 Parking Awards to complete a double for Berry Systems who also installed the complete facade and the ramp safety barriers on the 2012 award winner, Birmingham Millennium Point multi-storey car park.

System 3 perimeter safety barriers have been installed by Berry Systems at the award-winning Marks and Spencer Car Park, Cheshire Oaks. Designed by Aukett Fitzroy, the 950 space car park was built by Simons Developments of Lincoln and continues the environmental theme of the adjoining store. This is evident in features such as living walls and the electric vehicle charging points.

System 3 keeps M&S customers safe

Berry Systems installed the barriers all round the perimeter of the upper deck and on both

sides of the two way vehicle ramp

The Marks and Spencer Cheshire Oaks Car Park won the Best New Car Park at the 2013 Parking Awards

* [email protected] ( 01902 491100 116


Building Elements


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If you don’t know the answer then Evac+Chair can supply you with the right solution.Evac+Chair is a universal evacuation solution for smooth stairway descent during an emergency. Single user operation ensures no heavy lifting or manual handling is required during emergency evacuation procedures.

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HOW WILL YOU EVACUATE SAFELY?

SMS: Text HELP to 60066

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK

www.facebook.com/evacchairPRICEPROMISEGUARANTEE

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For enquiries and technical advice call 01978 812 111

1-4 Vauxhall Industrial Estate, Wrexham, Clwyd, Wales, UK LL14 6HA

Steni Colour panels now carry a 40-year warranty to really reduce lifecycle maintenance costs. It’s all thanks to our continuous developments, pushing technology ever further to meet the demands of our industry. For example, improving Colour’s impact strength and flatness; holding more product in-stock for delivery; and making our technical people more accessible to help you.

In other words, whatever you want from Steni we’ll make sure you have it. Guaranteed.

OUR GUARANTEE.GUARANTEED.

www.stenicolour.co.uk

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FCA November 2013

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