Architects Datafile ADF - February 2019

ADF_02_2019 Cover_Layout 1 05/02/2019 16:52 Page 1
02.19
COAL DROPS YARD, KINGS CROSS, LONDON

Heatherwick Studio transforms and brings together two
Victorian coal warehouse roofs, for a high-end retail scheme
DUNDEE RAILWAY STATION

Nicoll Russell Studios’ curved new hybrid concourse and hotel
ADF_02_2019 03-34_ADF Flatplan 11/02/2019 11:12 Page 3
CONTENTS 02.19
NEWS, VIEWS
& INSIGHTS PRODUCTS
04 Industry news & events 75 Planning & design
23 View Point: BDP’s Yuli Cadney-Toh 76 Groundworks & drainage
27 Site Lines Future workspace design 80 Structural elements
18 34
39
42
Ask The Architect: Tiago Pereira
Practice Profile: Bilska de Beaupuy
New Arrivals
82
96
100
External envelope
Insulation
Heating, ventilation & services
44 International Focus 103 Interiors
63 CPD Focus 120 Safety & security
64 Appointments & company news 124 Landscaping & external works
71 Futurebuild Show Preview 131 Classified & directory
PROJECT REPORTS
46 On a learning curve
Dundee was in dire need of a new railway station with the right presence.
James Parker describes how the architects steered an evolving project that
produced an unconventional concourse building topped by a hotel.
56 Where past and future meet
Heatherwick Studio’s Coal Drops Yard brings two Victorian roofs together to
form the heart of the King’s Cross regeneration. Roseanne Field reports
FEATURES
80 STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS: CONCRETE
Why concrete remains a rock-solid design choice
Dr Bill Price of Tarmac Cement discusses why concrete is increasingly popular
with architects for its aesthetic as well as practical characteristics
98 INSULATION
Turning the sound down
With one of the most invasive irritations being impact sound, Chris Willett of
Schöck describes an innovative solution for staircases
107 INTERIORS: BATHROOMS & WASHROOMS
27 The offsite route to accessibility

Chris Sutton from On the Level discusses the challenge of delivering accessible
living for an ageing population, and the benefits of offsite bathroom construction
122 SAFETY & SECURITY: ACCESS CONTROL
Smart homes means secure homes
Mark Carey of Salto Systems discusses how technology is now laying the
foundation for the creation of truly smart homes when it comes to security
127 LANDSCAPING & EXTERNAL WORKS: EXTERNAL SURFACES
Expand your mind
Adrian Walker of Sundolitt discusses why specifiers should consider expanded
polystyrene as a versatile and sustainable material for landscaping applications
56 adf
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incorporating Building Projects magazine,
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4 NEWS
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I recently attended a Westminster Social Policy Forum seminar headed up by Sir Oliver Letwin MP, who has
Editorial Contributor
Sébastien Reed chaired an independent review of housebuilding delivery, a particularly hot topic given the scale of the current
housing crisis. His comments were surprising for a couple of reasons.
Studio Manager
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Surprising firstly because the mentions of Brexit were at a bare minimum (although it was of course the ‘elephant
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Kim Musson current diplomatic crisis, especially given he was one of the leading Tory rebels attempting to ‘take back control’
Sales Executives of the process from an increasingly hopeless-looking Government.
Suzanne Easter
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Kim Friend His talk was also surprising however because the key focus was not just the commercial factors around ‘build
Steve Smith
out’ of large sites – the extent and speed of which residential sites are being built on by developers, in light of the
Audience Development dauntingly huge target to build 300,000 homes per year. Yes, he did talk about the problem of ‘absorption rates,’
Manager
Jane Spice (i.e. the rate at which homes will be sold in a new development), as being the main reason that sites are not built
on quickly enough: “The reason why it takes so long is nothing to do with how fast you can do it in technical
Managing Director
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Press Releases tenures like social housing, so that it isn’t just ‘lottery-winning’ landowners who get all the spoils.
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From visiting many ‘open market’ UK housing developments, Letwin said he had reached the view that “almost
netMAGmedia Ltd all of the homes that the very large builders build are astonishingly, and to my mind appallingly predictable.”
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02.19
manufacturers or advertisers. ON THE COVER...
Editorial contributors to this journal
may have made a payment towards Heatherwick Studio’s Coal Drops Yard forms the heart
the reproduction costs of material of the King’s Cross regeneration project, combining old
used to illustrate their products.
The manufacturer of the paper and new in a unique composition created from two
used within our publication is a reconstructed Victorian roofs.
Chain-of-Custody certified supplier
operating within environmental
systems certified to both ISO 14001 COAL DROPS YARD, KINGS CROSS, LONDON
Heatherwick Studio transforms and brings together two
For the full report on this project, go to page 56
and EMAS in order to ensure Victorian coal warehouse roofs, for a high-end retail scheme
sustainable production.
DUNDEE RAILWAY STATION
Nicoll Russell Studios’ curved new hybrid concourse and hotel Cover Image © Hufton+Crow
Printed in England
WWW.ARCHITECTSDATAFILE.CO.UK ADF FEBRUARY 2019

NEWS 5
RESIDENTIAL
Terrace gets ‘two

boxes’ extension
The Fragmented House is one of six
projects completed by Space Group
Architects within the Driffield Road
Conservation Area of Tower Hamlets in
east London. The “convoluted”
Victorian terraced house required
“drastic re-shuffling of its functions in
order to unlock and add additional
space for family of five,” said the firm.
With budget constraints in mind,
AVIATION Space Group Architects decided early
on to keep the structural interventions
Fosters collaboration up for to a minimum and used existing

openings as setting out points for new
spaces. The architects managed to add a
Chicago airport terminal bedroom, bathroom, laundry drying

room and a new dining area, plus a
new multi-functional lounge.
The two levels of ‘boxes’ were clad in
different tones of grey fibre-cement
Designs for the new O’Hare Global international arrivals and departures are
boards, carefully stacked on the rear
Terminal and Global Concourse were intelligently planned with direct routes, and
elevation, which are interrupted by
presented at the Chicago Architecture every detail is designed “with the passenger
‘ribbons’ of glass. “The glazing
Centre in January. Following an exhibition experience at its heart.”
emphasises the three-dimensionality
of the joint Foster + Partners, Epstein and The unique roof structure is an
while also allowing for a controlled
Moreno proposal, together with the four emblematic element that binds the entire
flow of daylight and still maintaining
other entries, which was on display at the design together. Using cutting-edge
privacy,” commented the architects.
Chicago Architecture Centre, the local technology, it is supported on its perimeter
The ground floor also received a new
public were invited to vote for their at just six points, creating a grand unified
wall separating the means of escape
favourite scheme. space that is designed to meet the
from the existing living room, “in order
The new terminal will replace the ever-changing operational demands that are
to address the Building Control
existing 1960s Terminal 2, “with a synonymous with airport terminals and
short-comings with regards to the fire
cutting-edge global terminal that reflects new technologies.
strategy,” commented Space Group.
the legacy of Chicago’s innovation, Norman Foster, founder and executive
However, a sense of openness had been
architecture and diversity.” The joint chairman of Foster + Partners, said: “This
maintained by providing large, pivoted
venture said it has created “a new vision project brings two passions together, my
door panels that can be folded away.
for a gateway to Chicago that captures the personal passion for flight – and my love
city’s progressive spirit and its architectural affair with cities. I remember coming to
legacy, while re-thinking the airport Chicago as a graduate and being captivated
terminal for the next generation.” by the energy, the extraordinary location,
In the design by Foster + Partners, the music, the culture, and the outdoor
Epstein and Moreno, departing sculpture – all of those influences blend
passengers will first encounter the three together in our proposal.”
sweeping arches of the new terminal “In 1991, we revolutionised airport
as they approach, creating a dramatic design with Stansted. At O’Hare Global
canopy over the drop-off. The arches Terminal, we are creating another
then merge into a single curve as they enter revolution – an extraordinary shell with a
the building, “blurring the boundaries span of 550 feet, with views that create a
between inside and out and allowing the direct visual relationship with the aircraft
spectacle of the airfield to unfold, and a sense of orientation and drama, a
recapturing the romance associated space that truly lifts the spirits. It pushes
with air travel,” said Foster + Partners. the limits of technology to create a space
The column-free spacious volume is that is generous, flexible, and points to
flooded with natural light. Domestic and the future.”
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NEWS 7
CHINA
Benoy regenerates historic Chinese site

Benoy has been appointed to redevelop a
new mixed-use destination in one of
China’s oldest cities, Ningbo.
Situated on the riverfront, the historical
port site will be transformed into a
“unique commercial destination blending
the past with present,” said Benoy. The
scheme, for developer Sino Ocean, aims to
“evoke the memory of the area’s heritage
through a new mixed-use, retail and
cultural experience for the community,”
said Benoy. Ningbo port was established in
738 AD and was one of the two biggest
seaports in East Asia. Today it is the
largest and busiest cargo port in the world
in terms of cargo tonnage.
Retaining the original form of the
historical buildings, Benoy’s design inserts
new blocks throughout the site, which will
form spaces for pedestrian thoroughfares,
retail and cultural activities. Through
careful placement of new buildings, the © Benoy
design “preserves views of historical
structures, which was crucial in the design new revitalised district for the city,” the on this special regeneration project.”
brief,” said Benoy. architects commented. He added: “We are excited to work on
With its unique riverside location and Hao Li, senior associate director at something that will be part of the evolving
reference to the historical and cultural Benoy said: “Ningbo is steeped in history, city – creating a vibrant new destination
elements, Benoy’s design is “set to create a and we are incredibly proud to be working nestled amongst a historical site.”
BOOK
The projects cover a wide range of
sectors with distinctive and specific spatial,
A wayfinding guidebook operational and cultural requirements,
from the Singapore Rail Corridor and two
World Expos, to the Eastland Retail
‘The Spaceagency Guide to Wayfinding’ design and planning, product design, Masterplan in Melbourne, the Qatar
is claimed by the publishers to be the graphic design, information design and Cultural and Sports Hub, and Heathrow
first “comprehensive compendium” behavioural psychology.” They added: Terminal 2.
that answers two questions: what is “Without any higher education The book is broken down into six
wayfinding, and how is a wayfinding programmes dedicated to the field, chapters that guide the reader through the
project executed? wayfinding is often poorly understood structure and sequence of design stages in
Wayfinding and user experience design and poorly executed.” the wayfinding design process. The
consultancy Spaceagency launched This book is claimed to fill a gap in chapters illustrate Spaceagency’s vision and
the publication describing it as a “visual educational resources devoted to the approach, “providing strong insight into
guidebook” detailing the process for field. The guide “offers an innovative spatial and information strategies and how
designing a wayfinding system. “Using methodology for developing a wayfinding these lead to the design,” said the firm.
visual information graphics, this book project that has been successful in It added: “It becomes clear thatthe term
speaks to designers in their native practice.” Six international case studies ‘sign’ is not meant to be a rectangular
language” said Spaceagency. from Spaceagency’s own work “investigate board with a few words on it. Rather the
The authors are Sarah Manning and and illustrate the practical application of identity of a place is expressed by the
Peter Feldmann, directors of Spaceagency. wayfinding theory to real-world solutions graphics, media and form of the end
The firm claimed wayfinding is “a using a step-by-step demonstration of the product.” The book also looks at future
little-known field of design that crosses a relevant techniques required to develop technologies that may provide “new ways
number of disciplines, including urban and realise a wayfinding system.” of thinking about wayfinding.”

10 NEWS
EVENTS
WORKPLACE
Innovative workplace for Tileyard Studios

AWARDS
National Building Awards 2019
28 March, London
www.nationalbuildingawards.co.uk
EXHIBITIONS
RIBA Stirling Prize 2018 Exhibition
Ends 23 February, Liverpool
www.architecture.com/whats-on
RIBA President’s Medal 2018 Exhibition

Ends 22 March, Liverpool
www.architecture.com/whats-on
SEMINARS
Cost-Effective Sustainable Design Solutions
21 February, London Architects Pilbrow & Partners have business, having reached capacity at its
www.architecture.com/whats-on submitted a detailed planning application current campus.”
for what the firm says is an innovative Fred Pilbrow, founding partner at
Inclusive Environments workplace building for Tileyard Studios. Pilbrow & Partners said, “The generous
27 February, Nottingham The scheme, whose future is soon to be contemporary industrial space provides a
www.architecture.com/whats-on determined by The London Borough robust framework within which recording
of Islington, will be part of “Europe’s studios, performance spaces and flexible
Fire Safety for Designers Post-Grenfell most significant music and entertainment workspace can be created.” The building,
7 March, Gateshead cluster.” From humble beginnings in which the architects designed in
www.architecture.com/whats-on largely derelict warehouses in Kings Cross collaboration with Patrick Bellew of Atelier
in 2006, Tileyard Studios has grown Ten, will deliver “exemplary sustainability
TRADE SHOWS to now house more than 1000 occupants, performance with a focus on health
Futurebuild including 400 leading creative companies and wellbeing.”
5 - 7 March, London sharing knowledge and expertise. Located 15 minutes’ walk north of
www.futurebuild.co.uk Pilbrow & Partners’ new building Kings Cross Station on York Way, the
provides flexible workspaces, closely new purpose-built building aims to ‘bridge
RCI Show tuned to the particular demands of the the gap’ in workspace provision between
27 - 28 March, Coventry sector, and “will support the development start-up space and the larger floorplates of
www.rcishow.co.uk [Tileyard Studios] needs to grow its office developments like Kings Cross.
ACQUISITION
including managing director Richard
Claxton, will join RSK.
RSK Group acquires Pellings Claxton commented: “The services we
offer are unique within the RSK group and
will release significant synergies between
RSK Group, one of the UK’s leading The acquisition followed RSK securing the two businesses. Our existing client
integrated environmental, engineering and new funding from Ares Capital Europe base, particularly in education, healthcare
technical services business, has announced (Ares) and NatWest. RSK’s founder and and the public sector, will provide useful
that it has acquired design, property and chief executive officer, Dr Alan Ryder introductions for other parts of the RSK
construction consultancy Pellings. commented: “This will be used to finance a group, and RSK will be able to provide
Pellings provides surveying, architecture, strategic doubling in size over the next few several services that we currently
planning and project management and years through the development of new subcontract through its internal supply
facilities management services for housing, businesses and the acquisition of bolt-on chain.” He added: “With the support of
education and healthcare projects. Recent complementary businesses.” RSK’s national and international network,
projects include a new care home and Pellings will become part of RSK’s we will be able to expand our services to a
day centre in Southend on Sea and the geosciences and engineering division. wider range of sectors in a greater
redevelopment of Enfield Civic Centre. The company’s current leadership team, geographical area.”

12 NEWS
BRAZIL
Rio named World Capital of Architecture

Rio de Janeiro has been chosen by the
United Nations Educational, Scientific and
Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as the
first World Capital of Architecture. The city,
which was also the first to be admitted to
UNESCO’s World Heritage list in the
cultural landscape category in 2012, will
host the 27th World Congress of Architects
in 2020.
The congress takes place every three years,
and, as from the next edition, will grant the
title of World Capital of Architecture to the
host city. Rio was selected to apply to be the
host city in 2014, and competed with Paris, Museu do Amanhã (Museum of Tomorrow) © Alexandre Macieira, Riotur
in France, and Melbourne, Australia.
The event will take place between 19 and people are expected to visit the city to Roberto Burle Marx and Lúcio Costa.
26 July 2020, and is promoted by the participate in the congress. Nivaldo Andrade commented, “The city is
International Union of Architects (UIA). It will be the first time that the event will also reference of contemporary challenges
Architects and city planners from around take place in Brazil, and the chairman of the for architects and of positive experiences in
the globe will gather in Rio to discuss Institute of Brazilian Architects, Nivaldo the urbanism field, with the urbanisation of
topics such as urban planning, culture, Andrade, emphasises that the city is slum areas, for instance. Rio synthesises
mobility, public works and construction of renowned as the location for works of characteristics found in cities not only in
inclusive cities. Approximately 25,000 renowned names such as Oscar Niemeyer, Brazil, but in several countries of world.”
NEWS 13
HEALTHCARE
Israel opens rare

public hospital
Swiss practice Davide Macullo Architects
have announced the opening of the Samson
Assuta Ashdod University Hospital in
Ashdod, Israel, the first new public hospital
to be built in 45 years in the country.
This new building is “born out
of the roots and the culture of Israel,”
said the architects. The practice added
that they “regard it as a home for the
inhabitants of Israel, whoever finds
himself here, feels at home.”
The design was “shaped through
symbolic choices that serve, through
every detail, to root the new hospital to
the surrounding area.” The project has areas have been designed through the eyes The project has seen Davide Macullo
been developed through the “careful of all of those who will benefit from the Architects recently win the WA Awards
consideration of the sensations of both hospital, and “those who will experience 28th Cycle 2018, and the practice were
people in need of care, and of those who important moments, in an atmosphere of finalists at the Society of British
work at the hospital.” New communal harmony and joy.” International Design Awards 2018.
14 NEWS
PUBLIC REALM
A floating public space for London

Construction has begun on the Royal
Wharf Pier – a new riverboat terminal
incorporating a large new public space on
the Thames, designed by London-based
architects Nex—.
The 130 metre long pier, located in
Ballymore and Oxley’s Royal Wharf
development in London’s Royal Docks,
will offer a unique perspective on the river
from a 162 m2 viewing platform, and
marks the practice’s first major venture
into infrastructure projects.
Commissioned following an invited
competition in 2016, the architects were
selected for “their innovative response to
the site’s unusual constraints, creating a
solution that harnesses infrastructure as an
integral part of valuable public realm.” As a
result, Royal Wharf Pier uses “strikingly
contemporary design” to replace an existing
derelict jetty, addressing the practical
requirements of MBNA Thames Clippers’
traffic while also providing a “unique and
generous public space that can be enjoyed
by all,” commented the firm.
The fixed element of the pier acts as a
linear open space, reminiscent of traditional Images © Nex
British seaside piers. This frames straight
views towards the horizon, and leads users back roofline slopes to direct views down working with Ballymore and continuing our
onto a viewing platform set on the river. the river towards Canary Wharf and The interest in connecting people to place, we
“Featuring integrated seating and finished O2. The layout creates increased open space saw an opportunity to combine new
with durable marine grade timber, this is a around the shelter, allowing boats to dock transport infrastructure with a distinctive
generous and peaceful space that invites easily and providing ample space for new public space for London floating over
people to linger, relax and admire the passengers. The large structural elements the Thames. The pier provides both
unique views up and down the Thames,” supporting the pier are concealed behind residents of Royal Wharf and visitors
said the architects. diagonal timber battens, “enhancing an with new access to the city, while also
The viewing platform will separate the impression of weightless floating,” said offering places to gather, sit and enjoy the
public promenade from the floating the architects. remarkable views of the Millennium Park,
gangway and pontoon of the MBNA Royal Wharf Pier is part of the Thames Barrier and Canary Wharf.”
Thames Clippers terminal through distinct Royal Wharf development. The new John Mulryan, group managing
angles in the pier’s design, making this neighbourhood will comprise 3,385 director at Ballymore added, “Major new
appear seemingly infinite from the river riverside properties housing around 10,000 infrastructure like our Royal Wharf pier
edge. The pontoon’s sheltered waiting area residents, and stands within the £3.5bn is a game-changer for east London’s
comprises a second timber ‘island’ – with Royal Docks regeneration area. Its connectivity – for north to south of the
integrated furniture and displays, enclosed townhouses, duplexes, apartments and river, and into central London. Non-road
in a metal shell, providing protection from suites are inspired by the classical travel is an essential part of the
the elements. heritage of London’s great squares and sustainability and growth of London’s
The shelter’s design showcases a “playful neighbourhoods and are focused around commuter network, and this pier will
and contemporary response” to more Sovereign Place – a new market square filled soon be a part of that. Nex– has done an
traditional pier design, said the architects. with shops, restaurants, bars and cafes. 45 incredible job on the design and now
The elevations are based on a regular per cent of the 40 acre development is construction is underway, the vision is
rectangular form, cut and folded to align devoted to outside space, including a 500 one step closer to being realised.” It is
with the angles established by the pier’s path metre riverfront promenade. anticipated the Pier will open to the public
into the river. Similarly, a skewed and cut Alan Dempsey, director at Nex— said, “In in late 2019.

16 NEWS
Images © Kevin Scott
USA three-dimensional datum,” said the

architects. “Feature elements puncture each
of the tower’s walls.” The stair is comprised
A Hillside sanctuary in the of a concrete base below large casement
windows, and “emerges from the stone,”
incorporating a wood screen around its
Pacific Northwest perimeter to balance natural light with
privacy. The main entry occurs at the high
side of the property, offering ease of access
to the project’s public spaces through a
simple, full-height opening cut into the stone
US architects Hoedemaker Pfeiffer recently rising together within the property interior volume’s north elevation.
saw work completed on a “personal retreat” enhance the concept, separating the main A steel canopy extends from interior to
located on a spectacular, elevated site in level into public and private realms and exterior. Once inside the view deck opposite
Washington State. flanking a central stone staircase. the entry provides “a very different
The owners of ‘Hillside house’ looked to A light-filled wood structure sits on experience.” Cantilevering far above grade, it
Hoedemaker Pfeiffer to create a retreat the low stone base, “creating a sense of affords a view of Puget Sound “that is as
inspired by a “treasured stone and wood enclosure.” A simple shed roof covering the thrilling as it is beautiful” said the architects.
home lost to fire decades earlier in the hills pavilion tips low in front to protect from The dining room, which also extends
of Appalachia.” the southern summer sun. Winter light in from the stone tower, was conceived as a
The designers’ task “was not to recreate turn penetrates deep into the main living three-sided glass object “floating in a forest
the house but rather to give its spirit new spaces through a wall of glass across the of trees.” Two steel beams carry its entire
form in the Pacific Northwest,” said the building’s south elevation. weight and extend deep into the interior
firm. Taking inspiration from its remote site Behind the wood pavilion and within the floor system to allow the room to cantilever.
in the San Juan Islands, the design team stone wall to the rear are more utilitarian Floor-to-ceiling glass wraps the exterior
conceived the project as “a series of simple spaces. Protected by a smaller shed roof with minimal interruption. In order to
stone volumes growing naturally from their pitched in the opposite direction, the preserve nearby trees, the design team
rocky surroundings.” From that concept relative height difference between the wood developed custom retaining walls capable of
emerged a main house and a guesthouse, pavilion and these secondary program avoiding critical root zones.
each responding to its own unique location elements allows north light to flood into the The lower level of the home contains the
on the site. primary living spaces via a series of more private spaces. Two small bedrooms, a
Taking full advantage of views of Puget clerestory windows. These also allow the single shared bath, and modest utility spaces
Sound, the main house is sited on a small release of warm air high on the leeward side are all contained within the stone perimeter.
plateau high on top of a steeply sloping of the structure. A concrete patio below the dining room
hillside. The view on one side and the road The site for the guesthouse “came with floating above provides a secondary entry as
on the other “suggested a stone plinth and significant challenges.” The concept began well as its own distinct view experience.
stone wall to form the base and rear of the with a stone tower set near the centre “The buildings provide two related but
house,” commented Hoedemaker Pfeiffer. A of the small circular parcel. Rising high distinct ways of appreciating the beauty of
pair of thick stone walls with fireplaces above steep sloping grade, it acts as “a this site,” said Hoedemaker Pfeiffer.

18 NEWS
NETHERLANDS
Former Tilburg train shed is

transformed into public library
A former locomotive shed has undergone
Images © Stijn Bollaert
an “intensive redesign” to become what the
architects call the “beating heart’ of
Tilburg’s newly modernised station district.”
Designed by Civic Architects, working in
“close collaboration” with Braaksma &
Roos Architectenbureau and Inside
Outside/Petra Blaisse, the new public
library was opened in January and has been
transformed into a public meeting place
which retains a “distinct railway theme.”
The building’s rugged steel structure
“provides the perfect backdrop for all
manner of events and exhibitions,”
commented Civic Architects. Much of the
elegant industrial building has been
conserved. With the addition of “robust”
new architecture and huge textile screens, it
has been transformed to showcase the new where visitors can learn new skills. One is After dark, the building is turned ‘inside
concept of public sector client Midden in the form of a glass cube, formerly part of out’, with the interior becoming the main
Brabant Libraries. the concert hall in Amsterdam’s Beurs van source of light: an inviting beacon in the
The building has a footprint of 90 x 60 Berlage building, and there’s also the Food city centre.
metres and a height of 15 metres, and is Lab, the Word Lab, the DigiLab and the
“both imposing and inviting.” It was Heritage Lab. Textile screens
“deliberately designed to be an extremely The clustering of library, various arts Textile and interior designers Inside Outside
accessible building.” The entrance hall takes institutes, workspace provider Seats2Meet have designed six ceiling height textile
the form of a covered city square with large and journalism faculties in the nearby screens, which define separate areas and
public reading tables (doubling as podia), Mindlabs creates “a diverse group of improve acoustics. These have a total
an exhibition area and a coffee kiosk. This experts,” said Civic Architects. “Moreover, surface area of 4125 m2 and can be
square “folds up into broad steps, which the form of the building ensures that the repositioned using a computerised system.
can be used as event seating for over a collection, the facilities and the manner in For example, be moved to separate the
thousand spectators,” said the architects. which they are used can be adapted to meet Seats2Meet area from the higher library
These lead into the main building, which changing requirements.” floors, or across one of the staircases to
has huge glass facades, allowing plentiful The atmosphere of the building is that of create a small, semi-private auditorium.
daylight in. On the second floor, the gallery a “knowledge institute.” The main structure The new architectural design is a
and stairways “allow closer inspection of as well as various original features have contemporary reinterpretation of that
the historic glass walls;” on the level above been carefully preserved and the new of the original late-industrial building,
is a large balcony offering panoramic views additions make use of “honest” materials dating from 1932, and “builds upon the
of the city. such as black steel, concrete, glass and logic of that design.” The impression of
wood, applied over large surfaces. Textile spaciousness is strengthened by new
A library for the 21st century screens add accents of scale and colour. sightlines across the diagonally stepped
The LocHal “has redefined the function of “The main structure determines the interior landscape.
a library in today’s digital era,” said the architectural language, while the details Columns, floors, balustrades and the
designers. Alongside traditional books in adapt themselves to the scale of the screens “form the ‘grand gestures’ of the
cases, the new library also “provides building” said the architects. “Floors, various axes within the spatial system, a
ample opportunity for the creation of new columns and stairways reveal their reference to the industrial processes of the
knowledge, in the form of lecture and characteristic textures when viewed at close past,” said the architects. “The original
events areas. “Curatorship has become just hand, especially in daylight when the riveted columns have been preserved and are
as important as the books themselves. This refined shadows created by the intricate joined by large supporting structures “in a
new role is facilitated by the architecture.” window frames and translucent textile more abstract form, which delineate the side
The library also has a number of ‘labs’ panels play upon them.” aisles they create.”

20 NEWS
MIXED USE
Bringing Taiwan’s
Times Square to life
Images © MVRDV
What MVRDV describe as their “bold and ambitious” design for

the Taipei Twin Towers, designed as part of a consortium led by
Nan Hai Development, has been selected to “revitalise the central
station area of Taiwan’s capital.”
The design is characterised by a “pile of blocks that create a
vertical urban neighbourhood,” said MVRDV, and by a number of
interactive media facades. These “artistically communicate the
diverse programme contained by those blocks,” said the firm.
The aim of the project is to provide a “vibrant and charismatic
destination that re-establishes the central station area of Taipei as
the city’s premier location for shopping, working, and tourism – a
Times Square for Taiwan.”
The site is currently occupied by the city’s Main Station, which
serves the city’s railway, airport lines and metro networks, and a
number of underused parks and plazas. The new buildings will be
built over the top of the existing station, combining retail, offices,
two cinemas, and two hotels; meanwhile the plazas will be unified
and redeveloped.
The neighbourhood surrounding the building includes a mixture
of small, human-scale buildings and larger towers. MVRDV
comments on how its proposal combines different scales: “When
experienced up close, the main visual impact of the buildings will
be provided by the bases of the towers, comprising connected
stacks of small blocks housing retail.” Each are proposed to house
different retail outlets and “thus contain different identities.”
The towers are 337 and 280 metres, housing offices, cinemas,
and two hotels: one crowning the east tower targeted at “young,
trendy travellers” and the other at the top of the west tower
focusing on the luxury market.
At ground level, the design proposes a sunken plaza, with a
variety of interventions inspired by the history of the site.
Structures marking the former locations of the original station and
plaza and some old houses will turn this plaza in the centre of
Taipei “into a kind of archaeological study,” said the architects.
These structures will include pergolas, as well as ‘tribunes’ to allow

NEWS 21
The project will “give Taipei the downtown it deserves,” say the architects
for public events, and a variety of other public services.

Principal and co-founder of MVRDV, Winy Maas said, “Arriving
at Taipei Central Station is currently an anti-climax. The immediate
area does not reveal the metropolitan charms and exciting quality
that the Taiwanese metropolis has to offer.”
“The Taipei Twin Towers will turn this area into the downtown
that Taipei deserves, with its vibrant mixture of activities matched
only by the vibrant collection of facade treatments on the stacked
neighbourhood above.”
Public atria are created at the centres of the retail blocks, which
allow for a natural ventilation system. Outside, escalators and
walkways connect the terraces at high level, and provide
alternative access to stores, making a “vertical shopping experience
that rewards exploration.” An elevated walkway that connects the
station with the surrounding destinations will also become the
project’s “spine.” Currently two design variations of this element
are possible, said MVRDV: one running straight through the site,
and another running close to the facades of the new buildings,
connecting with the larger network of escalators and walkways.
Maas commented, “We broke down the required programme
into pleasant small blocks that echo the surrounding urban
quarters, thus fitting the density fit into its surroundings. People
can climb over the blocks to the top – a true vertical
village. The space in between allows for social gatherings.”
This vertical village approach continues MVRDV’s “investigation”
into the future of high-rise buildings. The firm said: “Whereas
traditional skyscraper typologies create a separation between the
ground-level public realm and the elevated and isolated world of the
building’s interior, the Taipei Twin Towers will allow these two
conditions to intertwine.” By extending exterior pedestrian routes
over the bottom 20 floors of the building, “the public realm of the
city is expanded, while the interior life of the tower is allowed to
spread out into its surroundings.”
Thanks to the retail blocks’ small size, each need only contain
only a small number of tenants – in many cases just a single store.
This “opens up the possibility that each block could communicate
its unique character through an individual facade.” A number of
these facades are also proposed to feature interactive media
displays, making the buildings “dynamic hosts” for showing major
cultural spectacles, sporting events, as well as advertising.
MVRDV is working with CHY Architecture Urban Landscape as
co-architect, landscape designer Topotek1, and consultants Envision
Engineering, Arup, RWDI, and Mercury Fire Engineering Consulting.

VIEWS 23
VIEW POINT
Despite the opposition, BDP’s Yuli Cadney-Toh argues ‘the only way is up’ when it
comes to creating effective mixed-use development that meets the needs of Bristol’s
growing population as well as its economy – and that it needs to learn from other cities
B
ristol residents are regularly reminded and creative opportunities, this is putting a Bristol’s mayor, Marvin Rees, recognises
of the city’s wealth of accolades, and strain on Bristol’s infrastructure, forcing us the challenges that the city’s success brings,
how they make it a great place to live all to recognise that we need a plan to ensure including that of equality. While many areas
and work. Over the last decade we’ve a sustainable future for this West Country of Bristol are amongst the most prosperous
seen Bristol flourish through a promise of success story. in Europe, it contains six areas that are in
work-life balance alongside the rapid These problems are not unique. Indeed, the the top 1 per cent of deprivation in the UK.
development and support of the issue of urbanisation is global. However, each In his drive to address these issues, Rees’
creative industry. city’s answer needs to be bespoke to the office aims to deliver 2000 homes – 800
The success of this creative city is social, economic and environmental factors affordable each year by 2020.
bringing a steady influx of people, with up to they face, along with their ambition in Bristol has shown its creativity in its
80 individuals moving here every week from national and international markets and response to this challenge; the launch of the
London alone. As well as bringing economic community ecosystems. Bristol Festival of Housing explores the
TWO TOWERS
BDP schemes in Store Street, Manchester

24 VIEWS
opportunities of modular accommodation

and infill sites in the city. The city has
launched its own housing company, Goram
Housing, to ensure publicly-owned land is
used to maximise sustainable city growth.
Policy change also supports this change in
mindset through the recently adopted Urban
Living SPD (Supplementary Planning
Document) which sets out some of the
challenges the city faces.
The role of tall buildings

The role of tall buildings in this new policy
has divided opinion and brought protests
by local campaigners, who see Bristol as a
low-rise city. However, the debate is more
complex than this single issue. Good
urban design, achieving high density in urban
settings requires collaborative thinking across
a diverse range of areas, such as transport,
planning policy, health and landscape.
When the alternative is ‘city sprawl’
through volume housebuilders, Bristol needs
to join-up its thinking as quickly
as possible.
Mid-rise city districts in Paris or Barcelona
are often used as examples of achieving
higher density living, reaching densities of
over 50,000 residents per square kilometre.
However, these measures do not address the
current policy issues of open space, parking,
space standards and amenity which drive
URBAN DENSITY
brownfield development. BDP’s The Sheaf, Sheffield
Equally we must learn from some of the
mistakes of other UK regional cities where an With a history of invention and innovation, city,’ through public realm, footfall and
over-provision of small units in soulless from Brunel to the current aerospace access to local amenities and services.
towers lead to a lack of diversity and industry, Bristol’s inventiveness is a They need to convey a sense of openness,
long-term investment in the future of the city key aspect of the city’s character, and must be community ownership and accessibility. And,
centres. The picture of a city full of young presented in its future plans. Early signs are precisely because they have a hyper-dense
professionals enjoying the culture, bars and good, with support for the recent Festival footprint in a single city centre location, this
cafes is one-dimensional, and misses the of Housing, which will make the city ‘a should free up space close by for other types
social, economic and environmental benefits laboratory for housing’ for the next of housing, including family homes and
of family living and intergenerational five years. accommodation for the elderly.
development which requires a mix of unit Tall buildings need to be considered in the The scale of sites which can
sizes and tenure in the city centre. city’s plan, and this is recognised in the accommodate tall buildings in this model
now-adopted SPD (Supplementary Planning should make them identifiable in the medium
Age of consent Document). They can play an integral role in term and allow us to plan around them. St
Tall building projects are already consented creating mixed use accommodation and Philips Marsh near Bristol Temple Meads
in Bristol city centre. These include: inter-generational housing in the city centre, station could be an exemplar city quarter –
• City Link’s development at the Old re-using brownfield land and developing new there are already plans for education,
Ambulance station offering residential urban communities. If you live in the city, the housing and employment adjacent to the
accommodation over 26 storeys chances are your commute will be shorter, main transport node of the city.
• Axa and Bellhammer’s Assembly Building, your work/life experience will be more If Bristol is to deliver on its promise of
(workspace) balanced, and you and your family will have housing, listening to its communities and
• The University of Bristol’s new Temple greater access to education and health providing an equitable and sustainable future
Quarter Enterprise Campus (includes a 21 services, not to mention entertainment and for all, then it must grasp what tall buildings
storey student accommodation building) leisure facilities on your doorstep. can offer as pioneers for the wellbeing and
• Change Real Estate’s proposed Redcliffe Most of us experience the city at street prosperity of future generations.
Quarter tower, (includes 22 stories of level, and this is where tall buildings need
residential accommodation in the heart of most consideration. Their interface at street Yuli Cadney-Toh is architect director in
the city). level needs to be generous and ‘give to the BDP’s Bristol studio

INSIGHTS 27
SITE LINES
Designing for
future workspace
Architect Nick Ridout of Scott Brownrigg
says with the way we work changing fast,
designers need to answer key questions
such as when to retrofit, and how formal
spaces need to be
T
he office market is shifting; users are becoming more
demanding of their office spaces. Leases are becoming
shorter and more flexible. The way we work has changed
dramatically in the last 15 or so years. Emphasis on wellbeing and
the positive effect this has on productivity and talent retention is
key for businesses seeking to attract and retain the best people.
These changing demands are driving a wider range of offers to the
commercial office market, with an increasing requirement to
provide differentiation.
Advances in IT and mobility have resulted in a significant rise in
start-ups and small companies seeking more affordable office
spaces; happy to compromise on perceived quality of space and set
up in less fashionable areas, often former industrial spaces. This,
coupled with an increasing emphasis on collaboration and
exchange of ideas in lieu of more isolated tasks and cellular,
hierarchical organisation of working environments, has led to the
trend in less formal office design.
Standard 25 year leases on 1990s building stock are coming to
an end, and this is providing redevelopment opportunities.
Back then, a higher level of M&E servicing was the norm, with
associated floor-to-floor heights to accommodate additional air
distribution. Floor loadings were designed to accommodate
significant quantities of heavy paper and servers. Such structural
capacity is no longer needed to carry the modern day office and can
instead be used as a way of creating additional floor space to make
buildings work harder, achieve higher rental values and ultimately
become more attractive to potential tenants.
When to retrofit?
Retrofitting can mean a wide range of intrusion levels, from a
‘lick of paint’ to refresh a building and get it back to market, to
stripping back to frame, remodelling, re-servicing and extending a
building. The level of retrofit will depend on market conditions,
investment models, and what product the developer wants to bring
to market.
Retrofitting an existing building can have significant benefits as
well as some limitations on the final product, so when to retrofit,
and when to demolish and re-build? The reality, or course, is that
there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach, but below are some of the

28 INSIGHTS
key issues we consider when undertaking a feasibility review, as If working on an existing building that would not be approved
well as a brief case study of our project for Aviva Investors at under planning regulations, there may be value in significant
Victoria Gate in Woking (pictured). strengthening and adaptation works to retain this rather than
knocking down and rebuilding a smaller volume.
What is the product?
This will vary upon location, but generally, the expectations on base What is the existing floor-to-floor height?
build offices are shifting. Emphasis on wellbeing, the desire for As above, natural light and an emphasis on volume means that a
natural light and greater flexibility means more is demanded of space, low floor to ceiling/soffit height is likely to have a detrimental
and the amenity built into buildings is more varied and demanding on effect on the value or even the ability to let the space. Generally,
the base build. More volume per user is desirable, so higher ceilings, buildings built from the late 1980s onwards tend to have more
or exposed services with the structural soffit being the perceived contemporary floor-to-floor heights that can accommodate
ceiling rather than a suspended ceiling has been the recent trend. higher ceilings.
As an aside, we have recently been asked to design a scheme
for a new build business park in the Thames Valley with exposed
servicing and structural elements, where design precedents
referenced by the Letting Agents were retrofit schemes. The
qualities of space more usually found in retrofit are now making
their way into new build schemes, and the line between the two
are blurring.
When is the optimum time to come to market?

This is obviously very project specific, but there could be
advantages to bringing an office building to market at a certain
point in time. Depending on the level of retrofit and intervention, Retrofitting can mean a wide range of
there are often significant programme advantages to reusing and
adapting the existing structure, which might allow the building to
intrusion levels, from a ‘lick of paint’ to
be brought earlier to market, reducing costs and getting quicker refresh a building and get it back to
returns for the developer.
market, to stripping back to frame,
How far can the existing envelope be extended remodelling, re-servicing and
given planning restrictions?
If there is only the opportunity to add limited additional volume, it extending a building
is more likely that the existing structure will be able to support this. Nick Ridout of Scott Brownrigg

30 INSIGHTS
What is the loading capacity of the existing structure?

As above, buildings have historically been designed with large
floor loading capacity, usually 4-5 + 1 kN/m2, with additional
loading around cores for server space. As IT and advances in
remote digital filing become the norm, we are designing to 3-3.5 +
1 kN/m2. Floorplates can often be extended outwards as well as
upwards utilising the redundant structural capacity in the frame
and foundations.
What is the structural grid?

Are the columns at a sensible spacing that does not compromise the
space, and can be efficiently used by incoming tenants?
Environmental factors
There is significant embodied energy within an existing building.
Retaining as much as possible reduces this wastage as well as
reducing the transport involved in carting away the old and
bringing in the new.
1980s structure could bring a more attractive longer-term solution
Case Study: Victoria Gate, Woking for client Aviva Investors.
We originally designed and delivered the original Victoria Gate in By bringing the original outboard external column structure
1986 for Norwich Union. The building’s design was pioneering at inside to extend the floor plates beyond the original envelope,
its time, utilising new techniques in unitised curtain walling and infilling the former courtyard and by adding a new fifth floor, a
slim efficient construction methods. further 25 per cent lettable space has been delivered for the client.
30 years later, Scott Brownrigg revisited the building to bring it In addition, a strategy for a total visual rebrand for the 63,375 ft2
up to 21st Century standards for the competitive commercial building was undertaken to appeal to a speculative tenant. The
market. Originally appointed to undertake a simpler interior building has now been let to McLaren Automotive.
refurbishment commission, it became apparent during the
feasibility stages that exploring options to re-use the existing Nick Ridout is project director at Scott Brownrigg

34 VIEWS
ASK THE
WHY DID YOU BECOME assignments. The work can be very
AN ARCHITECT? demanding, and it is a constant challenge to
That’s a question that I have often asked maintain a balance between achieving the
highest quality output while prioritising
ARCHITECT
myself. When I think back I realise I
have always been moved by drawings. My employee satisfaction.
father was a mechanical engineer and I
remember being seven or eight years old WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST
and contemplating these large A0 ACHIEVEMENT SO FAR IN PRACTICE
Tiago Pereira, partner at blueprints and technical drawings of silos AND WHY?
and machinery. That appealed to me as One of my proudest achievements was
top five Danish practice something bigger than myself, and it made being nominated for the ‘Chief Happiness
Schmidt Hammer Lassen me realise that I could contribute to the Officer Award’ by our staff. It was a
signal to me that my colleagues
answers ADF’s questions; ‘creation of things.’
recognise and appreciate the daily effort
including on making the WHAT MADE YOU MOVE TO of making sure that everyone feels part of
COPENHAGEN AND JOIN SHL? something bigger.
move to Copenhagen, and It was also an honour to be appointed
When I finished my studies in Portugal, I
balancing a host of tasks in moved to Amsterdam. That was the hippest partner last year. And in terms of projects, it
a busy design office (architectural) place to be in the late 90s. was a major accomplishment to win the
competition to design the new headquarters
After a short time, I relocated to Barcelona,
as the architectural styles as well as the for chemical company Solvay, and to
liveability of the city have always appealed complete the seven-year-long journey of our
greatly to me. There I met my wife, who is Malmö Live project in Sweden.
Danish, and after six years in Barcelona, we
decided to move to Denmark, and try the CAN YOU SUMMARISE YOUR
city of Copenhagen with a fresh take on APPROACH TO WORKING ON
the world’s architecture setting. At that CONCEPTS WITH CLIENTS – ARE YOU
Tiago Pereira, partner at Schmidt Hammer Lassen time Copenhagen was still slightly hidden MORE PROACTIVE THAN REACTIVE?
away from the international spotlight, and It is difficult to summarise, as the core point
only a few studios could cope with the is that we are working with and for people,
demands of recruiting international staff and people are different. So a balance has to
due to the language barrier. be found, and a common ground for the
Schmidt Hammer Lassen was one of the design to thrive is when we listen to a
so-called ‘big five’ firms, and had a client’s wishes and ambitions, and we
remarkable track record of designing process that through our own
cultural buildings and large scale mixed-use understanding of the task ahead.
developments. That to me was quite an I am a very proactive person, but I don’t
interesting mixture of scale and programme. feed my ego by pushing solo ideas forward,
As the firm slowly expanded into hoping to indoctrinate an audience. I do
international markets, they wanted to like to challenge clients with ideas that
diversify their staff with young, ambitious might sound progressive or alternative,
foreigners – an ideal opening for me. mostly to ‘take the temperature’ of their real
ambition behind generic high expectations
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT for a ‘great project.’
YOUR JOB?
As leader of the creative department in the DO YOU PARTICULARLY ENJOY
Copenhagen studio, I work with new WORKING ON LARGE-SCALE,
competitions and new assignments. The job COMPLEX PROJECTS, AND WHY?
is dynamic and ever changing, with Yes and no. Large-scale, complex projects
circumstances that evolve frequently. are a challenge in so many ways. The scale
Motivating and mentoring teams of young certainly appeals to me as it brings so many
Motivating and mentoring creatives keeps me sharp and current – their questions forward – everything from a
teams of young creatives new inputs lead to discussions of humanistic perspective, to sheer size, to the
architectural qualities that evolve financial feasibility of the project, the
keeps me sharp and throughout time. complexity of the functional program, and
current – their new inputs the technical challenges.
WHAT IS THE HARDEST PART OF On the other hand, working with
lead to discussions of YOUR JOB? large-scale projects, especially in their
architectural qualities that The diversity of daily tasks. For me these early stages, keeps the detailing and
span from management to creative refinement of the final product as a mirage,
evolve throughout time leadership on multiple on-going in the hope that it will ‘all end well,’ and in

36 VIEWS
One of the biggest

challenges that today’s
architects face is a lack of
trust from clients
the process from inception to completion,

so many things can go wrong.
Small scale – through single family
houses, exhibition pavilions, small
custom-tailored solutions, the tangible
result of our creations – are also
super-interesting.
WHAT’S YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE

CURRENTLY AS AN ARCHITECT?
Authenticity, for sure. The banalisation of
imagery and the infinite amount of digital
architectural platforms has opened a
creative Pandora’s box, and globalisation
has become the status quo. All architects
look at the same references, all architects
love the same solutions, and all architects
are starting to think alike.
I have always been fascinated by the
authenticity of the different architectural
movements, and today the architectural
world is spinning so fast that we don’t
really have time to innovate, be thought
through in our own statements, question The new Solvay headquarters
what makes a solution special, and
hopefully the right one. We produce investment into a realised final product. blend of creative, innovative, solution-
relentlessly to respond to deadlines and To that purpose, we fight everyday, oriented professional and craftsman,
budget restrictions, and in very few through a good collaborative process, to will be difficult to ever replace. People
occasions are architects actually original. engage clients in satisfactory partnerships, like authenticity and unique solutions as
hoping that with time, our services are much as generic designs in the form of
DO YOU THINK THAT THE URGE TO engaged in a broader sense. IKEA-type off-the-shelf products. But no
CREATE STATEMENT BUILDINGS CAN one lives the same way, and despite cities’
BE A DANGER? WHAT’S YOUR CURRENT FAVOURITE tendency to look alike, I think that there is
Yes, definitely. There is an urge to create MATERIAL? still room for great design with high
‘iconic’ buildings. That is not what I don’t have a favourite material. I like architectural qualities.
motivates me. I like good architecture that wood as much as concrete, metal as much
is moving and plays with the senses. If a as polycarbonate. Each material appeals to WHAT IS YOUR OPINION ON BREXIT?
building is later described as iconic, I hope a specific tactile experience, and the use of I think that Brexit is a result of a
it is because of its sensorial qualities and the these must be calibrated to each project, common European frustration towards
experience it offers, and not because of its each solution. I am more interested in the globalisation in a broader sense,
size or shape. refinement of its use, its patterns, reliefs, combined with the anxiety of losing identity
motifs, etc. Recently we have been working as a nation. It is also the result of a ‘never-
WHAT SINGLE CHANGE/INNOVATION with triple glazed terracotta, which ages experienced’ public consultation that
WOULD MAKE AN ARCHITECT’S JOB very well and reacts to sunlight in beautiful spins-off a large number of political, social,
EASIER? ways, but I couldn’t use it in just any and economic questions. I presume, the
I think one of the biggest challenges that project. It has to make sense. majority of the voters and the abstention
today’s architects face is a lack of trust from could not totally foresee the outcome.
clients. We play in an arena filled with DO YOU SEE THE ARCHITECT’S ROLE From a professional standpoint, and
client consultants that in most cases are not CHANGING IN THE NEAR FUTURE? looking at it from the distance of the
there for the project, but rather for the Not so much. There is a common fear Danish setting, Brexit means the closing
honorarium. The architect lost the role of that automation and artificial intelligence of opportunities in one specific market,
being a client’s best consultant, the trusted will take over some of today’s routine while opening opportunities in other
partner that will adequately manage their tasks, but I think the architects’ role as a (European) markets.

WE DONT JUST MAKE

Its a fast-moving, ever-changing
world we live in. So at Pilkington we
are always looking for ways to evolve
GLASS. WE MAKE IT
our products to meet the challenges
of the present and the future.
By identifying emerging social trends,
SOLVE CHALLENGES.
keeping abreast of customer needs and
constantly seeking out new technologies,
we equip ourselves with the knowledge
required to lead the next step-change.
This helps us shape the future and solve
some of tomorrows most pressing issues.
In our drive to constantly question whats
possible and in our determination to offer
the best and broadest range of products,
we ensure that glass is and always will be
the worlds material of choice.
pilkington.co.uk/innovation
INSIGHTS 39
PRACTICE PROFILE
Bilska de Beaupuy
James Parker looks at a young practice which combines architecture with nutritional
expertise to produce an intense focus on holistic benefits to clients.
B
ilska de Beaupuy is a coming together of two like minds, but
of different yet complementary specialisms. This young
practice, founded in 2015, combines the talents of two
“long time friends,” architect Monika Bilska (pictured above right)
and Arabella de Beaupuy, a nutritionist (above left).
Monika worked for eight years at Zaha Hadid Architects as a
designer and team leader on projects at a variety of scales, from
private villas to large, multi-functional buildings. Arabella uses
her training in complementary medicine to inform design by
“integrating its holistic approach within her research of building
materials and in how design affects people and the environment.”
Combined approach
The two came together to create an architecture and interior design © Bilska de Beaupuy
practice which would “push the boundaries of their creativity, but
also have fun along the way,” says de Beaupuy. The “architecture
first and interior design second” firm, which has its office in The two came together to create an
London, fuses the duo’s knowledge of not only design, but also
material science and holistic health to create a new proposition. architecture and interior design practice
Taking a leap, with no projects when they founded the firm, they
secured their first client within two months of setting up.
which would “push the boundaries of
Bilska comments: “Thanks to our different backgrounds, we their creativity, but also have fun along
combine both of our technical and building site experience and
evidence-based knowledge with abstract and conceptual thinking,
the way,” says de Beaupuy
which we find very valuable and complementary.” Perhaps the most
important factor in their partnership is that “they have always Bilska sums up their ethos: “It may start as quite conceptual,
shared sensitivities towards life, nature and aesthetics,” she adds. which allows artistic freedom, but we also provide a lot of practical
The firm has an unusually esoteric approach, its stated goal – and specific material to support the design.” The firm is also keen
and USP – being “to design spaces which connect people to to bring in cultural references, as was demonstrated in a project to
themselves and to the universe.” Bilska de Beaupuy’s colourful create a bird observation tower at a wildlife reserve in Latvia. This
website speaks of “nourishing cultural, physiological, mental, being a country with “strong cultural roots within its folklore,”
emotional and spiritual needs.” What these messages and unusual says Bilka – the tower is inspired by folklore deity Auseklis, “a
mix of specialisms mean in practice however is beginning to be symbol of hope.”
shown in their work. She explains how this aligned with research-based design
The duo have brought their holistic, nature-oriented design pragmatism: “Auseklis is star-shaped, and it so happens that
approach to mainly concept designs but also a couple of completed through our research with an ornithology professor, we discovered
schemes in the high-end residential and leisure sectors, and they’re this shape of platform increased the viewing perimeter for
also branching out into product design. Allied to a “focus on birdwatching.” Other projects by the firm include timber concepts
beauty,” emphasis is put on good quality, natural materials, and for an adaptable wooden post cabin in a French forest (pictured
using evidence ranging from peer reviewed scientific literature to above), and a visitor centre in Sevenoaks, plus a highly flexible
sustainability methodologies such as ‘Cradle to Cradle.’ “folding house” in the US.

40 INSIGHTS
© NAARO © Bilska de Beaupuy
Nutritious architecture our style and ethos, and from there, we adapt. In general, our
The firm brings all of its rich conceptual approach together under clients tend to intuitively understand our ideas and suggestions.”
the umbrella term ‘nutritious architecture.’ While this does not The duo say clients have generally been “open and forward
mean a literal application of de Beaupuy’s nutritionist expertise, it thinking,” and it’s been a case of open dialogue rather than pushing
encompasses a desire to create architecture which is nourishing, an agenda. “It all depends on how far the client wants to push the
because it is “full of nutrients.” brief,” says Bilska; “the final decision always sits with the client.”
Says Bilska: “We see every element of a design within a space – She notes that the practice does input its knowledge on materials
materials, colours, proportions, form, and clients’ design intentions – and their environmental impact in client discussions where
as a nutrient, and will affect how people will feel in that space.” She possible however.
adds: “We believe that every surface has a functionality and a In order to move on from the first commission, Bilska de
relationship with the inhabitant and the environment.” Because of Beaupuy worked hard in competitions, design fairs, and industry
this, the firm tries to use only non-toxic and/or natural building and social networking across all sectors. “As a young business you
materials, towards creating a healthy indoor climate. can lose a lot of time trying to find a client if you don’t understand
They see the holistic design approach they employ as closely first exactly who your client is,” says de Beaupuy. “If you don’t, you
aligned with the body itself. “We use it to nourish and nurture will not find them.”
various systems in the human body,” says de Beaupuy. She In terms of goals, expansion is not the overriding aim, in fact in
identifies two aspects – firstly the simple fact that individuals order to retain the focus on creativity and a quality service, Bilska
each have a unique set of needs. Secondly, that humans are a de Beaupuy believe that “remaining small is key.” The similarly
“web of sophisticated physiological, mental, emotional, cultural small scale of projects they have undertaken is also beneficial, “as it
and spiritual systems,” and these interlinking systems all affect enables direct contact with the client and control over quality and
each other. design.” Bilska adds however that they are “currently at a key
Bilska explains further why a careful, bespoke response is stage” and are considering recruiting a new team member, “which
required, referring to a completed project for a private client’s is exciting.” They say they will be looking to bring on board an
bathroom (pictured, above left): “For one person, a dark, architect who’s “ready to embrace projects that are creative,
warm, cave-like bathroom made of Tadelakt and climbing air challenging and meaningful.”
filtering plants on a three-dimensional golden trellis will trigger Also, although they have been focused on the residential and
physiological responses, hormones and neurotransmitters, and leisure sector thus far, they “welcome all design collaborations
feelings and energy in a very tranquil, calm way. For another that could take us on the journey” in future. They note that they
person, it will trigger responses of anxiety, stress and wanting have found it essential for the client to engage with their vision,
to run away.” rather than, necessarily, the contractor. In terms of working with
contractors, “it is crucial to discuss and agree the requirements of
Small is beautiful the project before any work is started.”
The practice admits that they “operate in an area that is quite Growing organically, as befits the focus on holistic aspects,
niche.” With work thus far having transpired via word of mouth Bilska de Beaupuy is a firm with a slightly different, highly creative
and recommendations, there has been a “filter effect of clients approach to all aspects of design. They also bring a refreshing
who are interested in what we do,” says Bilska. “We got to attitude to their work day, with early starts, regular breaks
understand quite early on that our style and way of designing is not from the screen, and as much model-making, drawing and
for everyone. This was extremely helpful to understand, and saved illustration as possible. The presence of their two dogs in the
us a lot of energy and time.” De Beaupuy says: “It is key for our studio also means that they are required have to be out in the
practice and business to interact with people who are sensitive to nature that inspires them, perhaps more than most!

42
NEW ARRIVALS
Rounding up the latest movers and in-house
appointments across the industry
LIZ GIBNEY
LEE EVANS PARTNERSHIP
Leading south east architectural and planning
practice, Lee Evans Partnership, has appointed
Liz Gibney as partner. Gibney, formerly Head of
Place at Home Group, one of the UK’s largest
housing associations, becomes the practice’s first
partner to be appointed from a client organisation.
She has wide-ranging expertise in residential
design and master planning and her appointment
LK2 CEO Dale Lui & Tracey Francis Launa Cowan & Matthew Turnbull
will help to strengthen the practice’s ability to
deliver large-scale housing projects. Liz said, “I
TRACEY FRANCIS TWO NEW APPOINTMENTS am excited about being part of a practice which
combines a strong design focus with an in-depth
LK2 POD NEWCASTLE understanding of the planning environment and
LK2 has appointed ‘industry heavyweight’ Tracey North east architects Pod Newcastle is gearing up stakeholder consultation so seamlessly.”
Francis as director. Francis, who has more than for continued growth with two new appointments.
20 years’ experience in the sports world, will lead Launa Cowan, 26, joins the Toffee Factory-based
LK2’s development strategy to manage an practice as a newly qualified architect, while
increased demand for strategic project Matthew Turnbull, 25, comes in as a Part II
management in sport, leisure, community and architectural assistant. A graduate of Newcastle
commercial projects. Tracey’s role will include University, Launa brings creative experience in
developing and procuring new projects, as well bespoke residential design and project
as working within the senior team to offer a full management. She will be working closely with the
service to the firm’s sport, leisure and education firm’s strategic urban design team across a diverse
clients. Francis commented, “I am looking forward portfolio of regional projects and clients. Matthew
to hitting the ground running in my new role and re-joins after completing his Part I qualification in
collaborating with like-minded organisations practice with Pod. He impressed them so much
which are passionate about the future of sport that they sponsored him through the second part of
and leisure.” his qualification, which he completed last summer.
AMANDA ALLEN JAMES BLOOD

PURE FITOUT STEPHEN GEORGE + PARTNERS
Following rapid growth and success across Ireland, Stephen George + Partners LLP (SGP) has
independent fit out specialist, Pure Fitout, has reinforced its commitment to BIM best practice by
appointed Amanda Allen as UK head of business promoting James Blood to the post of BIM
development to lead its expansion into the British manager. James joined SGP in 2018 as BIM
market. Bringing with her nearly two decades of coordinator, bringing over 20 years of experience
experience, Amanda’s appointment marks a defining and implementing architectural service
significant point in Pure Fitout’s international provision with openBIM standards. James said, “I
growth. Allan said, “Pure Fitout has an edge that am looking forward to keeping SGP on the cutting
I’ve not seen before, which stems from their edge of BIM methodology, delivering quality
innovative spirit and inspired founder. My main assured openBIM outputs throughout the practice.
objective when introducing Pure Fitout to the SGP’s ability to link 3D models with a virtual
British market will be to emphasise the company’s reality suite is very exciting, allowing us to show a
collaborative approach to projects. I’m excited to client the design rather than having them interpret
have joined the team.” plans and diagrams.”

44
INTERNATIONAL
FOCUS
Showcasing the latest projects from around the world –
visit www.architectsdatafile.co.uk for full information
© ATCHAIN
VANKE 3D CITY, CHINA
MVRDV
MVRDV have won a competition organised by
Chinese real estate developer Vanke to design
their new headquarters in Shenzhen. The 250
metre Vanke Headquarter Tower – unofficially
named Vanke 3D City by MVRDV comprises of
LYRIC THEATRE COMPLEX, HONG KONG eight interlinked blocks of offices, housing and
culture, rising from four separate bases to a single
UNSTUDIO crowning tower. The eight blocks that make up
UNStudio has designed a world class theatre for dance and theatrical arts in the West Kowloon Cultural Vanke 3D City are designed to “strike a balance
District of Hong Kong. The approx. 41,000 m2 Complex is a mixed-use project housing three theatres between architectural diversity and cohesiveness,”
(the Lyric Theatre, the Medium Theatre and the Studio Theatre), a large rehearsal room which can also be with each displaying a different facade treatment.
used as an additional performing arts venue, a resident company centre and an extensive programme Each block corresponds to a keyword inspired by
allocation for Retail, Dining and Entertainment. The Lyric Theatre “reflects the grandeur and distinction the core values of Vanke: ‘health’, ‘energy’, ‘open’,
of baroque-era theatres” through the use of red and bronze-toned details, said the architects, while a ‘team’, ‘green’, ‘nature’, ‘future’, and ‘creative’.
combination of a cooler grey/brown toned wood helped add a contemporary touch. UNStudio’s Ben van Four of the blocks also have either an indent on
Berkel said: “The constraints of the site presented numerous fascinating challenges for the arrangement one facade, or a hole that punctures the entire
of the various programmes within this very compact building. However, in the end we were able to create depth of the block, creating ‘windows to the
a vibrant building that celebrates the enchanting world of dance and theatre.” world’ that house atriums, parks, and plazas.

45
© Grant Associates
MADRID CASTELLANA NORTE, SPAIN
ROGERS STIRK HARBOUR & PARTNERS AND GRANT ASSOCIATES
A masterplan by the pairing of Rogers Stirk Harbour & Partners and landscape architect Grant Associates
to create a new business and residential district in north Madrid has won outline planning. The proposal
for Madrid Castellana Norte aims to transform a vast, 500-hectare tract of neglected land close to
Chamartín railway station. The new green parks will serve to link the different neighbourhoods of the new
district, as well as providing 15 km of cycle paths. The parks will feature a variety of tree-like, geometric
canopy structures to offer shade, shelter and visual interest. The ‘Fractal Trees’ will complement a series
of water features. The precise design detailing for each park will constitute “a distinct and recognisable
space, mirroring the diverse typography of Madrid and its varied urban fabric,” the team commented.
© Hayes Davidson
MONROE BLOCKS, DETROIT
SCHMIDT HAMMER LASSEN
Monroe Blocks in Detroit, Michigan is Schmidt
Hammer Lassen’s first US project. Monroe Blocks
© Render by VA
is a mix of modern office space, residential units,

restaurants, retail, and outdoor public areas,
located on the northeast corner of Detroit’s
Campus Martius Park, the 12,500 m2 site has laid
vacant for a generation until now. The project
FORNBUPORTEN & FORNEBU SENTER STATIONS, NORWAY spans two city blocks and includes the first
high-rise office tower to be built downtown in
ZAHA HADID ARCHITECTS AND A_LAB (NORWAY) more than 25 years, as well as 4,800 m2 of public
Zaha Hadid Architects and A_Lab have won the architectural competition to design the Fornbuporten and outdoor space. “Monroe Blocks is the kind of
Fornebu Senter stations, two of the six stations planned for the new Fornebubanen metro line in Oslo. special project that only comes along once or
The entrances at either end of the new Fornbuporten station define two distinct civic spaces at street twice over the course of a career in architecture,”
level. To the south, a layered, orthogonal pavilion and public piazza “extend the Cartesian geometries of said Kristian Ahlmark, partner and design director
its surrounding urban fabric,” said the architects. To the north, an oval canopy sits within the natural at Schmidt Hammer Lassen. “To be a part of a
landscape of the community park in which it is located. The Fornebu Senter station (pictured) was project this culturally significant that will play a
inspired by Norway’s mountainous landscapes and fjords, said the designers: “The design carves canyons part in the revitalisation of such a treasured city is
and spaces for the flow of people.” an honour and a privilege.”

46

47
BUILDING
PROJECTS
RAILWAY STATION CONCOURSE & HOTEL

DUNDEE
On a learning curve
With the new V&A museum plus a regenerated
waterfront, Dundee was in dire need of a new station
with the right presence. James Parker describes how the
architects steered an evolving project that produced an
unconventional concourse building topped by a hotel.
A
victim of transport planning What were historic docks had become
riding roughshod over urban an eyesore.
environmental quality in the 1960s, Nicoll Russell Studios’ involvement led
Dundee’s waterfront is now being from their work with engineers Jacobs
reinvented. Dramatically catalysed by throughout the UK, including a bus
the arrival of architect Kengo Kuma’s transport interchange for Dundee City
avant-garde V&A museum which opened Council. It was Jacobs’ work for the
earlier this year, the area is unrecognisable. council looking at how to build a road
What was a series of roundabouts and bridge over the railway line in front of the
sub-standard buildings is becoming a station – as part of reconfiguring the
people-friendly new district that reunites convoluted traffic system – that prompted
the town with the river Tay. the municipal authority to look at creating
The area now has an unconventionally- a new station concourse building, and
shaped new combined train station subsequently the addition of a hotel.
concourse building and 120-room Steel explains: “The existing bridges
‘Sleeperz’ hotel, welcoming swelling visitor were in the wrong place and weren’t
numbers to the city who are particularly strong enough. The council had always
lured by the V&A. Dundee practice Nicoll had its eye on the station as a project, so it
Russell Studios building is essentially a sort of began to grow.” The scope, and thus
series of arches curved on plan and in the design brief for the project evolved
section, and is something of a product of considerably over the years since its
the engineering complexity that often inception, with the architects doing a series
characterises rail sector projects. of studies.
As well as the resulting building’s form, Steel describes the council’s rationale for
this is an unusual project in that it’s a rail what would be a public-funded project:
station commissioned by the city council. “The V&A was going to be constructed,
Project architect for Nicoll Russell Studios, but they had this relic of a station which
Graham Steel, explains to ADF how it forms was letting the whole thing down.” The
part of a much wider scheme to improve the plan to add a hotel came later, once the
waterfront: “The council had for years architects were appointed – they were
recognised that it was a barrier between the looking at putting some form of
town centre and the Tay.” He adds: “They accommodation over the site, and in
came up with a plan which was to create a parallel, the council was looking at hotel
grid of streets taking you to the river.” capacity in Dundee. “They identified
When the Tay road bridge was there was a need, and the two things
constructed in 1966, it to some degree fitted together,” says Steel. The added
blighted the area, with a road network revenue from a hotel tenant was an
leading off it constructed on reclaimed land, obvious plus, but also ties in to a clear
plus now-demolished buildings including a precedent from station/hotel hybrids seen
© Paul Zanre
public swimming pool, casino and hotel. across the decades.

48 PROJECT REPORT: TRANSPORT FACILITIES & PUBLIC REALM
The station previously had a GRP-clad

1960s white concourse/entrance building,
presenting a fairly nondescript face to the
city, says Steel: “Something with greater
presence was called for in what is a very
visible position. In addition, “the new
building needed to be bright, open, generous,
accessible and legible, everything the original
building was not,” says Steel.
The original Victorian brick station which
sits in a cutting below the new concourse
building is retained, with its platform and
metal zig-zag roof both curving to follow the
railway line as it comes into the city after
crossing the Tay. It then dips underneath the
newly developed waterfront to remerge in the
east end of Dundee, but rather than its
overall physiology, the constraints the line
presented for the site were the chief concern
for the design team.
Arch rival
Following on from Jacobs’ initial work to
create the road which now sits in front of
the station, the emerging project to replace
the concourse building was initially an
engineering challenge. The new structure
would have to span a main railway line –
which was main practical reason behind its
arch-like form. Graham Steel explains: “We
were spanning two abutment walls, and
coming in at different angles, reconciling
different things, the geometry of the
railway line coming in at an odd angle
relative to the street grid that had been
established by the council.”
There were fixed constraints – the level of
the track, the roads above it, and the vertical
and horizontal clearance needed for the
trains. Steel says: “We were spanning across a
railway cutting effectively with two bridges,
one at concourse floor level, and another
‘bridge’ carrying the hotel floors above; it
basically formed an arch.”
In order to take the diagonal forces into
the ground, the specially designed steel beams
that make up the concourse floor tie the two
ends of the bridge/arch together, dealing with
the sideways ‘thrust’ forces. The depth of the
floor was constrained by the road above and
the clearance required from the trains below.
The building is highly unusual in that it
is articulated on plan, following the train
line – and giving each hotel room above
a slightly different view – however its
structure is also curved in section, with a
triple height arching entrance.
Says Steel: “You wind up with an
interesting concourse space which is very
three-dimensional, but creates the situation
© Paul Zanre
where the building is wanting to lean over

PROJECT REPORT: TRANSPORT FACILITIES & PUBLIC REALM 49

© Paul Zanre
REFERENCING THE PAST towards the west.” With the eccentric load invaluable; I think we would have really
The building’s form, while driven by structural created by the building’s curve, steel sizes struggled without it. The steel fabrication
necessity, also references the grand railway station
arches of the past
needed to be “pretty substantial” says the model slotted into the 3D model and we
project architect. “Buried in the building were constantly able to check the three-
are rigid frames, forming an extra dimensional impact as the design developed.”
The upper stories and end cross-braced frame.”
elevations are clad in a Above the ceiling of the column-free Into context
concourse are a diagonal network of steel The six-storey new building (three stories of
mix of curtain walling and columns and cross bracing. This structure, concourse/cafe plus a three-storey hotel), is
anodised aluminium panels, Steel admits, “is pretty chunky, and
wasn’t designed to be seen,” and has been
the first large-scale building which visitors to
the city encounter, heading in from the west.
which are acid etched in covered by four pieces of stretched white “It effectively bookends the western edge of
tensile fabric, which willingly accepts the the waterfront,” says Graham Steel.
four different shades and building’s curving geometries. “There’s a lot He admits it’s a somewhat unusual urban
randomly distributed of twist to the shape, says Steel, “to try and site, as the building’s overlooked on all
do it with a rigid material would have been sides, the street pattern meaning it cannot
almost impossible.” connect with any buildings. Due to its
The building’s form, while driven by being articulated in a curve, its ends
structural necessity, also references the grand address both the Malmaison Hotel –
railway station arches of the past, such as housed in a historic building to the north,
St Pancras and York. Steel adds: “Very often, and the V&A and Scott’s ship The
they are hidden behind a big facade, in this Discovery to the south east; both can be
case it’s not.” viewed from the station’s cafe.
BIM (Revit) was essential to resolving all In what is something of a ‘classical’ plan,
of the competing variables in the design, the concourse building and hotel terminates a
and it also helped support collaboration new west-east route, Earl Grey Place. This
in the design team. Graham Steel: “The cuts between two new commercial buildings
three-dimensional model was absolutely facing the station and a green space beyond,

© Paul Zanre © Paul Zanre
which is already used for events, and runs to There is a “conscious difference” between TOP LEFT
the waterside. the more transparent lower floors and the Escalator down to platforms from concourse with
diagrid rooflight above
Steel comments: “In a sense, there’s a more closed, intimate upper hotel floors,
certain classical element to the building,” accentuated by the fact the building is TOP RIGHT
citing its exposed steel columns to front and deeper in plan on the bottom three levels The concourse features a tensile fabric ceiling
rear. The building frames a small, roughly due to these housing a different set of
crescent-shaped plaza to give pedestrians functions. However, to the front, the whole
some refuge from the heavy traffic nearby. curve is clad in terracotta, bar the very
Designed by the council, it features polished bottom which is in granite to resist damage.
concrete ‘pebbles’ which are proving popular The upper stories and end elevations are
as seating. clad in a mix of curtain walling and
Commenting on the newly created public anodised aluminium panels, which are acid
realm, Steel says, “It was important the etched in four different shades and
facade onto the plaza was of true urban randomly distributed.
scale, and avoided the ‘flatness’ that is a Terracotta also clads the bottom three
feature of many modern buildings.” He storeys to the rear of the building,
adds: “The deeply inset bedroom windows, surrounding a glazed arch mirroring its
subdivided by columns, creates a kind of counterpart to the front, and welcoming © Paul Zanre
giant order that feels appropriate to the passengers ascending via escalators (or
status of the building.” These windows also accessible lift) from the platform level
give hotel guests added privacy on the inner below. Steel comments on the choice of
curve of the building, preventing views in material: “We were conscious of a desire to
from other rooms. pick up on some of the better stone in
The building has glazed corners, Dundee, some of the buff colours and
butt-jointed windows to the south lighter colours.”
allowing these hotel rooms fantastic
views across the Tay, some being triple Interiors
glazed to attenuate noise from trains. Internally, the concourse space is
The north and south elevations are typically uncluttered to allow efficient
glazed in part – including the cafe passenger movement, with the cafe
space covering the first three levels to accessed to the left on entering via the
the south and the hotel entrance and main sliding doors, signalled by a piano
stairwell facing the town to the north. At outside for public use, and a retail unit and
night, this provides “a kind of beacon,” ticket office to the right. Passengers then
says Steel. descend to platform level through a newly

© Frame Focus Capture
© Frame Focus Capture © Frame Focus Capture
ABOVE refurbished circulation, also designed by Running the length of the concourse
The Sleeperz hotel occupies upper levels Nicoll Russell Studios. As well as designing ceiling is a damper consisting of a louvre
a large diagrid rooflight over the escalators grill, which opens automatically when the
and new tiled walls, they also squeezed the air temperature hits a prescribed level. “If
minimum size of escalator kit between the necessary, the main sliding doors will open
two retained Victorian columns which automatically, providing make-up air to
hold the existing metal roof up, as well a encourage the stack effect to take place,”
through-lift alongside. “We were trapped comments Steel. In addition, the
between two existing platform edges, concourse’s single-glazed bolted fin glazing
which could not be adjusted,” says Steel. has a dot pattern screen printed onto it, to
“We had to go for the narrowest lift, further reduce solar gain and glare.
escalators and stair that Network Rail There are also standard ‘Colt’ type
would accept.” louvres within the terracotta cladding to
The cafe has a first floor balcony looking front and rear, providing further natural
into the triple-height space but also an ventilation to the concourse space. To
external south-facing one, allowing avoid a “big box of plant sitting on the
passengers to sit outside overlooking the roof,” the plant serving the hotel and cafe
Tay and the V&A. While it will lift them are hidden in the space between the arch
above the traffic somewhat, it also gives the and the underside of the hotel.
“certain kind of buzz” inherent to such a
busy urban location, says Steel. Conclusion
This is an unusual scheme in many
Passive approach respects, yet its form partly results from
With the architects aware that a large area tackling a set of challenges that are
of south west-facing glazing to a common to many other rail projects.
concourse could create an “unacceptable These include remedying previous and
level of solar gain at certain times of the unsatisfactorily ad hoc solutions, and
year,” a passive ventilation strategy was dealing with complex geometries. The
adopted to offset this. A thermal model result is what the project architect calls an
confirmed this supposition, and Nicoll “organic shape,” which makes a virtue of
Russell suggested that because of the this in addressing its city and the rescued
arched shape of the space, this could be waterfront which it helps provide a link
mitigated by venting the concourse at high to. It is a fitting terminus to both railway
level with a stack effect passive vent that journeys to what is a revitalised Dundee,
ascends through the hotel levels. and a new and exciting urban quarter.

Daylighting takes off at Heathrow

C
urtainwall Engineers and Kalwall Kalwall Skyroof cladding is being used using a bespoke moving scaffold, meaning
distributor Structura has recently above the Terminal’s International Departure there was no disruption to the inside of
completed a challenging but Lounge and check-in desks. Fully ASAID the building.
fascinating ‘replace and refurbishment’ project compliant with regards to blast performance, Kalwall offers complete line-of-sight
at Heathrow’s T4. This in conjunction with Kalwall improves the solar control and protection, maintaining privacy for the
Structural Engineers Webb Yates for a scheme insulation to the space below. In this project, security screening area and departure lounges
designed by Pascall+Watson architects. The its inherent strength in a lightweight frame while bathing the interior with diffused
project proved so successful that main means the existing substrate could be daylighting, regardless of the weather. Apart
contractor Balfour Beatty named Structura as adapted and reused - saving £7m in project from providing the visual protection, its inher-
their ‘Most Promising New Supplier 2018’. costs and more than a year from the ent strength and heavy-duty impact resistance
Replacing ageing glass rooflights originally build programme. The whole retrofit was make it ideal for secure locations such as this.
installed in the 1980’s, 1750 square metres of completed externally in ‘engineering hours’ It offers the highest protection in terms of
wind-borne debris and resistance to impact,
abrasion and point loads. Not only is it also
safe to walk on but Kalwall achieves S:AA (BS
476 part three) and Broof(t4) to EN 13501
part five for external fire performance.
The exterior face is colour stable and
includes a UV resistant, self-cleaning surface.
This means that normal rainfall helps to keep
the surface free of dust and dirt while at the
same time retaining its original colour during
the weathering process.
01233 501 504

www.structura-uk.com/kalwall

54 PROJECT REPORT: TRANSPORT FACILITIES & PUBLIC REALM; PROJECT REPORT: RETAIL DEVELOPMENTS
Hauraton drainage channels used at

Maritime Transport Headquarters
T
he Maritime Transport Limited new
£5 million headquarters in Felixstowe
has received the accolade of
“Winner-Design (Non residential)” at the
Suffolk Coastal Quality of Place awards
held in October 2015. Designed by
Architects, Wincer Kievenaar, the Maritime
Headquarters office provides an impressive
gateway to Felixstowe Port.
The Headquarters extensive car park, set
with composite grey blocks is drained by 98
metres of Hauraton RECYFIX® PLUS 150
channels fitted with Class C250, HEELSAFE
ductile iron gratings. A further 47 metres of
RECYFIX® PLUS 100 channels were also
installed in other locations on site.
The RECYFIX® PLUS channel unit is made
of tough, virtually unbreakable recycled
polypropylene (PP) formulated to be very edges which house the ductile iron gratings. material is unaffected and a consistent
resistant to daily temperature fluctuations Complying with the requirements of EN appearance is maintained. The PP is also
from frost conditions to strong sunlight, 1433, the PP is given its UV resistance by naturally resistant to de-icing salt.
including the Ultra Violet (UV) spectrum. The adding just sufficient carbon black as a
channel unit also features galvanised steel top stabiliser so that the structural strength of the 01582 501380 www.hauraton.co.uk.
New release of Halo 80 Plus Jack Aluminium for station revamp

Energetics Technology Ltd. have expanded A full suite of Jack Aluminium Systems’ products
their range of blast protecting litter bins were used in a £2.59m revamp of Strood Railway
with the release of the Halo 80 Plus. The Station, part of the National Station Improvement
design brief was to create a blast protecting Programme (NSIP). The 37-week refurbishment
litter bin that could meet the Home Office programme was part of Medway Council’s plans
seven star rating whilst not requiring it to to regenerate the area and the new station is a
be anchored to the ground. The Halo 80 bright, modern building with a new larger waiting area and booking
Plus satisfies both these criteria, making it suitable for internal hall. Will Woods, Managing Director at IDF Aluminium explains: “We
locations such as airports, shopping malls, transport hubs and arenas. always use Jack Aluminium doors for these kinds of projects.
The bin is functional and portable and can be supplied in any colour, Contractors and customers are pleased with the result and they
stainless steel or vinyl wrap. usually want to use the same products for other stations in the NSIP.”
www.energetics-technology.com 024 7646 7449 www.jackaluminium.co.uk
Advanced selected to protect premier shopping destination in Mumbai

Inorbit has emerged as one of Mumbai’s popular shopping destinations with its diverse and exceptional
offerings in food, fashion and entertainment. Over the last 15 years of being in business, the mall has
gained a huge fan following because of the unique shopping experience one can enjoy here.The Axis EN system,
which has recently received globally recognised FM APPROVED accreditation, was installed by Advanced
Partners, Abhay Fire and Security Engineers, who were tasked with replacing the entire system including full
re-configuration, programming and commissioning. Available for European, Middle East and South East Asian
markets, Axis EN is Advanced’s highest performance analogue panel range, combining 1-8 loop, fire panels
configurable up to 200 panel networks with a complete range of wired and wireless loop devices and powerful
peripherals. Axis EN, which is part of Advanced’s Axis range of systems, holds global approvals, including
EN54, UL864 and AS1670. It is designed to go anywhere where high quality, reliable and easy to use fire
detection and control is required.
01670 707111 uk.advancedco.com

BUILDING
PROJECTS
COAL DROPS YARD

LONDON
Where past and future meet

Combining old and new in a unique composition created from two dramatically
reimagined Victorian roofs, Heatherwick Studio’s Coal Drops Yard retail scheme forms
the heart of the King’s Cross regeneration. Roseanne Field reports

F
ormerly a gritty part of London, the middle level, this was then shovelled
King’s Cross has undergone a total into sacks and loaded onto horses and carts
transformation over the last 20 years. at a lower level.
One of the key final parts of the overall It was only 27 years however before
regeneration has recently completed – a electrification took place and the coal drops
striking high-end retail development nestled were suddenly no longer required. The
down next to Regent’s Canal. buildings were then used for warehousing
The project takes its name from the two and industrial use for around a century,
Victorian ‘coal drops’ (essentially covered before London’s club/rave scene – which
rail viaducts) which were built in 1851 in rapidly colonised disused warehouses
1860, which had a colourful history but across the city in the late 1980s and 90s –
had fallen into disrepair in recent years. made its way into part of the eastern of the
They were the city’s entry point for coal for two coal drops, in the form of the infamous
heating (and lighting, in the form of coal Bagley’s nightclub.
gas) arriving by train from northern mines. The parts of the buildings not repurposed
These would enter the buildings at the to serve the nightlife trade were abandoned,
upper level and drop coals into hoppers on and fell into disrepair. In the 2000s the site

58 PROJECT REPORT: RETAIL DEVELOPMENTS
Creating a heart
The original brief provided by Argent was
to somehow link the long, two-storey and
arch-filled brick buildings. They sit at a
slight angle to each other, the western one
being shorter due to the canal bending
northwards alongside it. Green explains the
designers’ thought processes in addressing
the brief: “The original scheme that we
designed effectively had two bridges
connecting the buildings.” However,
the more the studio examined the two
buildings, the more they realised that this
project required a more transformative
response. Thomas Heatherwick, founder of
the studio, commented: “The challenge to
us was to create a heart that would hold
and glue everything together.”
Adding a third level seemed a natural
way to unite the two buildings. However,
the studio were keen not to just “drop a
box on top.” It was thanks to the fact the
roofs needed rebuilding – their state of
disrepair combined with a large section of
the eastern coal drop’s roof having been
The new elevated roof was eventually earmarked to form part of
the mammoth King’s Cross redevelopment, burned out made this a given – that the
“ribbons” are made of 20 and Bagley’s, as well as two further clubs designers’ ideas started to evolve and they
opened in the eastern building, were closed. examined the possibility of “stitching” the
steel sections bolted onto The still-ongoing regeneration is roofs together instead.
trusses at either end and being led by the King’s Cross Central When the proposals were first put
Limited Partnership, formed of property forward to Camden’s planners, there
tied back to the columns developer Argent and investor was, says Green, “an element of surprise.
AustralianSuper. The project includes a We were very much deviating from
total of 36 architecture practices, each what we had outline planning for.”
working on a different element. However, this was contrasted by the
The 67 acres was previously “underused project team’s excitement at the prospect of
industrial wasteland.” Once completed, the doing something more and “being bold,”
site will hold 50 new buildings, 2,000 new Green explains.
homes, 20 new streets, 10 new public As well as the planners, meetings were
squares, 3.4 million ft2 of workspace, also attended by Historic England, who
500,000 ft2 of retail space and 26 acres of officiated on heritage matters. Workshop
public space. upon workshop took place with ideas
Coal Drops Yard sits at the centre of this discussed and sketched out, the studio
development, adjacent to another reinvention “very much making them a part of the
of Victorian structures, Wilkinson Eyre’s process of coming up with the idea,” Green
residential Gasholders scheme. explains. Although these discussions were
This eye-catching new retail project has characterised by lots of questioning from
been designed by Heatherwick Studio; the the two groups, ultimately, according to
practice also responsible (with BIG) for Thomas Heatherwick, it “made the project
Google’s new HQ, under construction on better.” In particular, he said he found it
the other side the canal within the King’s “thrilling” how ambitious Historic
Cross scheme. The newly-conjoined former England were. “Britain has so many
industrial buildings now housing high-end historic buildings and we can’t just have
retail are a key part of the new district. single formulas for how we handle them,”
The project is significant for both he added.
Heatherwick Studio and Argent, but Heatherwick Studio group leader Lisa
especially so for the architects. The studio’s Finlay credits the planners’ cooperation to
office is just down the road, which made it the dilapidated state of the buildings. “They
special to them. “It will become part of our were in really bad repair, so anybody who’s
neighbourhood,” says project leader prepared to invest in them, obviously the
Tamsin Green. planners want to work with them,” she says.

PROJECT REPORT: RETAIL DEVELOPMENTS 59
The first designs had just one of the Naturally with a part-heritage project TRANSFORMATIVE
roofs “peeling” out to meet the other, such as this, the studio were conscious to do Replacing the roofs with twisting, curving but still
which left a hole in the middle. But this as little alternation as possible to these slate-covered structures also created striking interior
spaces for retail tenants
idea was challenged, on the basis that historic structures – especially given the
while the aim was to connect them, the eastern one is Grade II listed. For the most
buildings also needed to retain their own part, the original brickwork remains
identity. The next iteration, therefore, was intact, complete with soot stains and old
to bring both roofs out and up so that the paintwork. “We’ve tried to keep the slight
buildings met in the middle, simultaneously moodiness,” Finlay summarises. However,
creating a third level. This also raised the various uses and alterations over time
height of the building, which sits in a low- meant floor levels were all over the place,
lying part of the King’s Cross site and, as and so adjusting those became the biggest
Finlay says, “announced it” to the public. change at lower levels. “We had to be able
“It was totally off people’s radar, because to get the inside level to meet with the
it’s sunken.” outside,” Green explains.
As well as the floor level, in some places
Victorian industrial to the sills had to be dropped. Every bay was
21st century retail closely examined by the heritage consult-
One of the biggest challenges presented by ants, not only to assess the structural
the coal drops was making them suitable integrity, but also to see where it would or
for high-end retail, says Green: “They were wouldn’t be appropriate to alter it. “There
never envisaged to be that, so there’s a lot was a lot of going back and forward,”
that goes into how to get those kind of Finlay says. At the end of each building is a
buildings to work.” For example, the large “anchor” unit, where much of the
architects were very conscious that the original structure could be left intact, the
width across a typical shopping retail tenants installing stairs and lifts
environment would usually be 10 to 13 where necessary.
metres – a distance based on how people
will interact with the environment and Meeting the challenge
at what distance they’re likely to be With various teams and consultants
drawn into shops. The distance between working on the project, 3D BIM modelling
the coal drops ranges from 26 metres at formed a key part of the design process.
the northern end to 39 metres at the The basis for these models was formed
southern end. from a point cloud scan of the building,
This was a contributing factor to the which was conducted early on. However,
studio’s notion that the development needed with a conscious desire “not to stay in the
a heart, and that making bridges between digital environment”, the studio also
the two wasn’t going to cut it. The brief’s produced many physical models to “check
aim to create a ‘destination’, was key to scale and materiality”.
their thinking. “We thought if you just Adding an additional level to the
refurbish these buildings and put bridges in, buildings presented myriad challenges.
you’re not going to get what you want,” Green says that a key aim was the “illusion
explains Finlay. of the roof being peeled out, and that there

60 PROJECT REPORT: RETAIL DEVELOPMENTS
MEETING IN THE MIDDLE wouldn’t be any columns underneath.” you could look through, up into it and out
The ‘concertina’ glazing evolved as a budget-conscious She adds however: “The structural of it, and it all felt connected together,”
alternative to curved glass, but the designers also felt
it echoed how the buildings were broken up by arches
gymnastics of achieving that were adds Green.
All photos © Hufton+Crow incredibly complicated.” The coal drops Specifying the glass wasn’t a simple task.
themselves couldn’t support the new level, There was a fixed budget that didn’t allow
so they had to find a way to “stitch it for curved glass, which is how the
through the existing structure onto concertina shape evolved. The designers see
new foundations.” this design as a contemporary way of
In total, 52 pairs of steel columns – echoing how the buildings below are
which sit on either side of the walls broken up into sections by the arches.
separating each bay – have been As well as the overall design, the thermal
“threaded” through the existing buildings. properties, and ensuring the views in and
This in itself presented a headache for the out worked for retail clients, also had to be
studio, as Finlay explains. They couldn’t considered. “There was a lot of testing on
get a standard piling rig in the space samples of glass to make sure it would
so they used mini piles for each pair of work,” Finlay says.
columns. “You just couldn’t do things in a Originally, a third viaduct ran through
conventional way.” the middle of the coal drops, and the
The new roof “ribbons” themselves are design of the cobbles follow its footprint, by
made up of 20 steel sections bolted onto way of recognition of this vanished edifice.
trusses at either end and tied back to the Despite the removal of this substantial
columns. The structure is also shored structure, the site was still incredibly tight.
up by concrete walls and cores, and the “When the four sections of steel came, they
new floor is hung via a series of high were lying in the yard taking up all of the
tension cables tucked in the corners operational space,” explains Finlay. Many of
created by the concertina-style glass. the utilities for the surrounding area also
Although this steel and glass contrasts run through the site: “Underneath the yard
with the historic buildings below, it was every inch is taken up,” she says. “We were
part of Argent’s brief that the additional coordinating facilities at the same time as
level should be “as transparent as possible,” coming up with our very early concept
says Finlay. “There was this feeling that design,” adds Green.

PROJECT REPORT: RETAIL DEVELOPMENTS 61
“There was this feeling that

you could look through, up
into it and out of it, and it
all felt connected together”
Tamsin Green, project leader at Heatherwick Studio
PROJECT FACTFILE
Client: Argent
Developer: KCCLP / Argent
Lead architect: Heatherwick Studio
Heritage consultant: Giles Quarme
& Associates
Structural/facade engineer: Arup
M+E/sustainability: Hoare Lea
Lighting designers: Speirs and Major
Cost consultant: Gardiner and
Theobald
Delivery architect: BAM Design
Slate supplier: Welsh Slate
With this being one of the final projects The finished product
to complete in this smartly regenerated The retail units are now home to a mix of
area, a certain amount of inspiration was established higher-end brands as well as
drawn from new buildings emerging in the new entrants, some of whom have opened
development. “Our job was stitching all this their first shop here. Samsung has taken the
together,” says Green. “We took some entire unusually-shaped space which
details from the wider scheme but also occupies the new third level created under
needed to make it a distinct place.” Timber the ‘kissing’ roof. The dramatically glazed
infills have been used throughout to bring and timber finished interior is sure to prov
warmth – and can also be seen on the a dramatic location for its promised
restored granary building next door, now “digital playground.”
the new home of Central Saint Martins. The central cobbled space is to
“Things like that were inspired by the tones host events, enabled by the copious amount
and colours the original railway company of space between the buildings. The
used,” explains Finlay. The reuse of existing area has also allowed for seating which will
cobbles can also be seen elsewhere across not impede passers by. “It’s a place where
King’s Cross. people will gather and spend time,” Green
Some of the original roof trusses explains. Despite some initial concerns
have also been retained where possible. over this larger-than-usual gap between
In the sections that were burnt out, trusses buildings, in the end, says Finlay, it “works
were relocated from the middle of the really well.”
building where the new structure sits. Having handed the majority of the
The new roof has been clad in over 80,000 King’s Cross redevelopment over to
slates – some individually hand-cut to fit various tenants and agencies, Argent
the curve – and they come from the will be retaining and managing Coal
same Welsh quarry as the originals. This Drops Yard themselves. As this massive
traditional craftsmanship paired with the overall transformation of an area
use of 3D modelling embodies how the approaches the end of its 20 year tenure,
project brings together two worlds, says this particular project is a very important
Finlay, “pulling out this modern space from architectural centrepiece – “it’s a bit like its
within these existing buildings.” gem,” says Heatherwick’s Finlay.

63
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64 PROJECT REPORT: RETAIL DEVELOPMENTS; APPOINTMENTS & COMPANY NEWS
Altro ensemble hits perfect note Finance specialist joins Cistermiser

Altro Ensemble luxury vinyl tiles have been used Giles Townsend has joined Cistermiser and
in Fidelity Acker & Buck’s flagship Hamburg Keraflo, the washroom and water efficiency
store. Fidelity took several months to design and specialists, in the Board-level operational role of
implement the studios, which included testing Altro Finance Director. A Business Studies graduate and
Ensemble at the studio. This showed its 15dB sound Chartered Management Accountant, Giles has
reduction meets the requirement for a noise-reducing specialised in financial management throughout
environment. The high-quality flooring was also his successful career to date which has included 29 years of fast-
selected as it is extremely hard-wearing and durable, while being easy to moving commercial experience at leading retailer Toys ‘R’ Us, where
clean. Altro Ensemble modular flooring system is the next generation of he was formerly Financial Controller. At Cistermiser and Keraflo,
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effects, superior function and durability, and ease of installation. as well as HR and business administration for both companies.
01462 489 516 www.altro.co.uk 0118 969 1611 www.cistermiser.co.uk
Advanced Panels recognised with FM Approvals Diamond Mark

Axis EN and MxPro 5 fire panels from Advanced have been certified by FM Approvals to the EN 54 standard.
The FM APPROVED diamond is one of the most prestigious certification marks in the world. It is issued by
FM Approvals, a member of the FM Global Group, for products that adhere to the highest property conservation
standards in quality, technical integrity and performance. The MxPro 5 multi-protocol panel and Axis EN
systems panel are certified to EN54 Parts two, four & 13 and come in one-to-eight-loop variants as standard,
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01670 707111 uk.advancedco.com

APPOINTMENTS & COMPANY NEWS 65
Approved National and International Best Practice Build Details

Approved National and International Best Practice Build Details are contained in a new 190 page publication
from Cavity Trays of Yeovil, that contains the most extensive range of construction product solutions. Building
envelope protection at all levels from below ground to roof top. Considered essential reading for all disciplines
this free informative publication has been released by the only UK specialist in its field awarded European
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T. Gunning completes major renovation project at Fairfield hall

T. Gunning Ltd, the Chartered Building Company specialising in interior/exterior refurbishment, has completed
a major project to refurbish and renovate Fairfield Hall, a magnificent, historic building in Bedfordshire.
McCoy Pearce was appointed on behalf of the management company to deliver the planned maintenance
programme and to invite tenders from a selection of suitably qualified Contractors. T. Gunning was
subsequently appointed to carry out works to the Grade II Listed former hospital on the maiden major works
contract known as Phase 1. T. Gunning has helped to transform the building, cleaning and repairing masonry
and undertaking an extensive series of repairs to the building’s timber-framed windows. It has also conducted
repairs to the roof, replaced guttering, and redecorated throughout – all of which has been done using materials
appropriate to the building’s historic status. T. Gunning established a methodical system of working
from initial site set-up and scaffold erection, through to repair surveys and final completion. A dedicated site
management team meant that any issues that were identified could be swiftly dealt with.
020 8593 8916 www.tgunning.co.uk
New National Sales Manager at Firestone Enhancing production capabilities

Firestone Building Products has appointed former Hadley Group is delighted to announce that it has
lining sales manager, Andrew Cooper, in a newly further enhanced its UK production capabilities with
created role as national sales manager. Andrew’s the addition of a new heavy-duty flying cut-off press
new role sees him taking on sales and business at its Downing Street headquarters in Smethwick.
development responsibility across commercial The new addition means Hadley Group can process
roofing, modular roofing and lining sectors, building a wider range of metal products than ever before.
on his previous remit of lining sales for decorative ponds, landscaping The capacity to work with larger, heavier-duty
features and irrigation reservoirs for the agricultural sector. Andrew products of greater sectional complexity and gauge thickness is
comments: “Firestone Building Products takes a personal approach enabling Hadley Group to take on jobs that they haven’t been able to
to looking after every customer, including both specifiers and quote for previously meaning the company can deliver even more
contractors, and ensuring every project is the best it can be.” innovative solutions to customers across a diverse range of industries.
01606 552026 www.firestonebpe.co.uk 0121 555 1300 www.hadleygroup.com
The essential architect’s guide Rhodes & Partners report a record year
The 2019 edition of Kick-Start’s The Specifier’s Guide A leading structural and civil engineering
to Ceramic Tile & Calibrated Natural Stone, which consultancy has reported that 2018 was a
explores all the latest ceramic tile design trends and record year for the company, in which it
advanced installation techniques, is now available in surpassed all previous records for the volume of
print and online at www.specifiersguide.co.uk. The work which it had handled. Rhodes & Partners,
guide will be officially unveiled at The Surface Design which has a number of business award wins to its credit, offers a wide
Show (5th to 7th February). Now in its fifth edition, range of professional services for both small domestic and large
this annual industry bible is an essential specification commercial projects. “Over the past 26 years we have worked on well
tool for architects and designers. Content includes informed analysis over 22,500 jobs,” says Managing Director Nick Ribbeck. “In the
of global tile trends, along with reports on the latest technology, and process, we’ve developed a very wide range of specialist skills. That
sustainability; as well as some truly inspirational case studies. enables us to handle a very wide variety of different project types.”
01892 752 400 www.specifiersguide.co.uk 0161 427 8388 www.rhodesandpartners.co.uk

66 APPOINTMENTS & COMPANY NEWS
The Tiling Show – It’s where the tiling industry does business!
The Tiling Show, organised by The Tile Association, takes place ahead of the TTA Awards at The Hilton
Birmingham Metropole, from 10am on Friday 12 April. Intceram are the main sponsor. The Show is open for
all to visit and visitors will have the opportunity to see leading brands from the tiling industry. It promises
once again to be a unique event, hosted by the tiling industry for the tiling industry. The exhibitors so far
confirmed include Aquacut, ARDEX, BAL, Banks & Lloyd, Jackon, Lithofin, Mapei, Norcros Adhesives, Palace
Chemicals/Laticrete, Parkside, Saint-Gobain Weber, Scarfato Ceramiche, Shackerley, STS Ltd, Trimline Group,
TTA, UltraTileFix. Last year over 30 companies exhibited and it is expected that the number of exhibitors
will be in excess of that this year. In addition to guaranteed networking opportunities and the chance to see
the latest products, the Show will provide the opportunity to clinch some good business deals, since all
exhibitors, as last year, are requested to have a special Show offer running on the day. With its central location,
the Tiling Show is simple to visit, whether travelling by road, train or air.
0300 365 8453 www.thetilingshow.org.uk
BAL invests in Specification Support Team

BAL has expanded its Specification Team support with the appointment of Keith Pearce as Specification
Manager for London and the South East. Keith has nearly 30 years’ experience in the construction industry,
including 26 years at CEMEX – one of the UK’s leading suppliers of cement, ready mix concrete, screeds and
aggregates. He held numerous roles including technical manager, training advisor and operations supervisor.
Latterly involved in working with architects closely on specifications Keith brings a wealth of technical
experience to the role. In addition, BAL have promoted Stuart Ross (pictured) to Head of Specifications.
Stuart previously worked as BAL’s Technical Services Advisory Supervisor working closely with the
Specification team over the years on some key projects, with previous experience as Business Development
Manager for CPDs and Specifications. Commenting on his and Keith’s appointment, he said: “We are extremely
pleased to welcome Keith to the team. Bringing with him a wealth of technical and architectural, solution-
based knowledge and experience, Keith is a superb addition to our growing team of experts”.
01782 591100 www.bal-adhesives.com
Schueco UK Excellence Awards 2019 Vent-Axia welcomes Clean Air Strategy

Schueco UK are calling on architects, main contractors Ventilation manufacturer Vent-Axia has welcomed the
and specialist contractors to submit entries to the 2019 Government’s Clean Air Strategy, launched on 14th
Schueco Excellence Awards for Design and Innovation. January 2019, which highlights the importance of clean
This highly regarded annual competition continues to air in the home. The strategy sets out how the
attract large numbers of submissions from all over the Government aims to tackle all sources of air pollution
UK and Ireland, with Schueco confident that entries with indoor air quality (IAQ) a key part of this. As such,
for the 2019 competition will top last year’s record total. The only the document proposes a number of simple measures to reduce air
criteria for an eligible entry are that the project submitted should have pollutants in the home, including regularly ventilating dwellings. Jenny
been completed before the end of March 2019 and should have Smith, Marketing Manager at Vent-Axia (pictured) said: “We
utilised at least one Schueco system in either aluminium or steel, with constantly strive to provide ever more effective and efficient ventilation
the involvement of a Schueco UK network partner fabricator. products to improve IAQ and so improve the nation’s health.”
[email protected] www.schueco.co.uk 0844 856 0590 www.vent-axia.com
Three join sales team at Vortice Pland Stainless celebrates centenary

The Vortice sales team has welcomed three new 2019 will be a year of celebration for Pland Stainless
recruits; Colin McNally, formerly involved in as they mark 100 years in British manufacturing.
passive fire protection and underfloor heating, Established in 1919 on the same site, based on the
Darren Clare who has a background in ventilation Lower Wortley Ring Road in Leeds, the company
and Gary Williams who previously worked in the has some exciting plans to reveal during the year
wholesale sector. Offering a complete project management approach, the that will suitably mark the occasion. Pland products
Vortice sales team works closely with all its customers to offer technical today are largely designed for the healthcare,
help and advice and the internal sales team then ensures that the sanitaryware, washrooms, laboratory, education, catering, janitorial
products are delivered at the right stage of the project. The new team and the secure accommodation market places. But a significant
enhances the ongoing advice and support by the head office technical proportion of their business is made up of bespoke products, using
team which can produce a fully compliant design and quotation service. their in-house CAD/CAM and 3D modeling technology.
01283 492949 www.vortice.ltd.uk 0113 263 4184 www.plandstainless.co.uk

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Real projects.
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Case study: CitySuites
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68 APPOINTMENTS & COMPANY NEWS; FUTUREBUILD SHOW PREVIEW
Mapei to exhibit at Futurebuild 2019

M
apei UK is pleased to announce it
will be an exhibitor at Futurebuild
2019, located at ExCeL London,
5-7th March. As a company renowned for its
long-standing environmental commitment in
the manufacture of construction products,
Mapei will be embracing the event’s exciting
new rebrand with an eco-conscious theme at
stand D90.
Featuring alongside the event’s central
conference is six Futurebuild Hubs
focusing on niche industry sectors. As the
world-leading manufacturer of adhesives and
chemical building products for the
construction industry, Mapei will be part of
this year’s Buildings Hub which will cover all
aspects of building across domestic and available to discuss relevant products and will explore the latest technologies and
commercial projects. projects with stand visitors. approaches, while looking into the biggest
This will be Mapei’s ninth consecutive year The 2018 event attracted over 26,000 issues facing the built environment.
as an exhibitor under Ecobuild, and now visitors, seeing a 5 per cent rise in attendees Visit Mapei in the Buildings Hub at
Futurebuild, events. Taking on feedback from compared to its previous year, and this year’s stand D90 for product displays, expert advice
last year’s event, and with the environment event is expected to achieve similar results. An on how to specify for new build and
being at the forefront of Mapei’s core values, ever-growing platform for the industry, refurbishment projects, and for information
the stand will include interactive screens for Futurebuild 2019 will welcome the freshest on innovative and sustainable products.
visitors to access an extensive range of thinking opinion-shapers, decision-makers
product information. Experts will also be and product innovators under one roof, and 0121 508 6970 www.mapei.co.uk
FUTUREBUILD STAND NO D90
Ancon to exhibit at Futurebuild 2019 Selectaglaze at FutureBuild 2019

ANCON will be showcasing its latest Futurebuild draws together over 25,000 visiting
fixing innovations at Futurebuild industry experts from all areas of the built
(formerly Ecobuild), 5th – 7th March, environment supply chain. This event affords
London ExCeL, stand number C82. visitors the opportunity to learn about the latest
Awarded with the Queen’s Award for products, discover cutting edge technology as
Innovation in 2018, this is the third time well as connect and build relationships for the
that Ancon has been honoured in this future. Selectaglaze will be showcasing a variety
prestigious award scheme. Alongside a of secondary glazing products at Futurebuild
string of innovation and product development accolades, Ancon will from the 5th – 7th March, ExCel London at
continue to enhance its product range further in 2019. Stand D21. Selectaglaze’s Technical Advisors will be available to
For more information, call Ancon or visit their website. answer any secondary glazing questions.
0114 275 5224 www.ancon.co.uk [email protected]
FUTUREBUILD STAND NO C82 FUTUREBUILD STAND NO D21
Flowcrete UK Achieves ISO 9001:2015 Certification

The resin flooring manufacturer Flowcrete UK has successfully achieved ISO 9001:2015 certification for the
quality of its products, services and management. ISO 9001:2015 is the latest BSI standard for evaluating an
organisation’s quality management system. Attaining this certification proves that the Sandbach, Cheshire
based flooring specialists are constantly operating to the highest possible standard and adhering to industry
best practise throughout a wide variety of business-critical activities. Product control and assurance as well as
customer satisfaction are central services that this standard evaluates to ensure that they are in line with all
applicable statutory and regulatory requirements. Flowcrete UK’s Managing Director, Kevin Potter, said:
“Flowcrete UK works hard to be at the forefront of manufacturing excellence and this certification is a great
testament to the hours, expertise and commitment that goes into our products and services. Being ISO
9001:2015 certified means that our clients can rest assured that not only are they being provided with products
that are of the highest possible quality – but also that their customer experience will be second to none!”
01270 753000 www.flowcrete.co.uk

FUTUREBUILD STAND NO E17

FUTUREBUILD SHOW PREVIEW 71
Futurebuild 2019: addressing

architects’ challenges
Futurebuild, the new name for Ecobuild, remains the leading event for architects and
specifiers to meet and learn, be inspired, and do business, adding new features for 2019
F
uturebuild 2019 (formerly Ecobuild) the most pressing challenges through
will focus on exploring and tackling insights from leading experts and
More than 500 market-
the biggest challenges impacting the knowledge sharing. With an overarching leading brands and
industry, and will be a unique destination theme of ‘Time For Action,’ the conference
for visitors to gain unrivalled insight and sessions will be “collaborative forums”
organisations from across
hands-on experience around the latest where visitors will develop plans for the globe will be
innovations, products and materials in implementing change and proposing action
order to address these challenges. for a more sustainable future.
showcasing the latest
Developed in conjunction with industry- A total of 13 key challenges will be innovations and
leading partners, Futurebuild will provide tackled through this programme, including
over 500 hours of structured learning how to put health and wellbeing at the
contributing to the
across an inspiring conference programme heart of design, how to achieve a truly extensive knowledge
and 11 seminar streams – all completely circular economy, and how the industry can
free and CPD accredited. overcome the housing crisis. programme
Meeting challenges & making Future trends, future products &
commitments future materials
Central to Futurebuild is the conference More than 500 market-leading brands and
stream which retains the ‘Ecobuild’ name, organisations from across the globe – a
which will inspire visitors to take action on snapshot includes RIBA, Bauder, Glavloc,

72 FUTUREBUILD SHOW PREVIEW
UNIQUE FEATURES Internorm, Nudura and Smart Systems – companies BEIS and Innovative UK has
Each of six curated Hubs at Futurebuild 2019 will will be showcasing their latest innovations provided funding for; and a ‘Business Bar’
include unique features and also host new and and contributing to the extensive in collaboration with the Knowledge
expanded pavilions and attractions
knowledge programme. To ensure visitors Transfer Network – providing one to one
gain a truly immersive and in-depth advice and support on accessing funding.
experience across all areas of the industry, New for 2019 is the Knowledge Forum
these exhibitors will be hosted across six – a dedicated area where industry-leading
curated Hubs: Buildings, Urban partners, academia and professional bodies
Infrastructure, Materials, Interiors, Energy will offer a comprehensive look at the
and Offsite. biggest issues facing the built environment.
Each Hub will include unique features Hosting CPD workshops, the Knowledge
and concentrated education programmes Forum will provide useful solutions
hosted by a relevant sector-specific and guidance for visitors to take back to
authority, and will also host a variety of the office.
new and expanded pavilions and The Waste Zone will return with new
attractions, including: The City Walk, Made and expanded features. Curated by
In Britain, the Association of Decentralised architect, academic and author Duncan
Energy (ADE) pavilion, the Home of the Baker-Brown, the area will showcase how
Future by Tufeco, the RIBA stand designed waste can be a valuable resource for
by Gundry + Ducker, and many more. industry. Central to the experience will be
the new Circular Economy Hub, which
New & exclusive features will take a unique ‘beach hut’ format and
Futurebuild will be bolstered by a range of feature a collection of hand-picked brands
new and exclusive partnerships and at the forefront of making the circular
features. As an official UK Government economy a reality.
Innovation Partner, Futurebuild will be Futurebuild is also partnering with the
hosting the Innovation Zone with the architect-oriented exhibition and
Department for Business, Energy & conference Vision, to provide a London-
Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and Innovate UK. focused seminar programme alongside
At the Zone, BEIS will be showcasing the an unrivalled networking opportunity
work of the Energy Innovation Programme for architects. The programme will be
and demonstrating how it is delivering the curated by Vision and hosted in the
Clean Growth Strategy. Focusing on “true Vision Seminar theatre, surrounded by an
innovation,” it will provide a platform for exhibition of brands looking to improve
investment and knowledge exchange across the built environment and public spaces
three areas: a dedicated three-day seminar through new technologies, products
series; an exhibition featuring innovative and services.
To register visit www.futurebuild.co.uk/register

74 FUTUREBUILD SHOW PREVIEW
Bauder to showcase its sustainability

solutions at Futurebuild
L
eading flat roof manufacturer, Bauder,
will once again be exhibiting at
Futurebuild at the ExCeL in March.
After the success of last years’ show, Bauder
is thrilled to be returning to one of the
industry’s most prominent exhibitions with
an exciting new flat roofing system.
Futurebuild, which is the evolution of
Ecobuild, has been running since 2005 and
will host its 14th event this year. Futurebuild
2019 will bring together opinion shapers,
decision makers and product innovators for
one common purpose; to explore the latest
technologies and approaches and debate the
biggest issues facing the construction industry
both now and in the future. Dedicating
individual zones for specific sectors of the
industry will see the show split into 7 areas:
the Offsite hub, the Urban Infrastructure hub,
the Materials hub, the Energy hub, the
Buildings hub, the Interiors hub and the
Waste zone. Bauder will be situated in the
Buildings hub on stand D100 this year.
Bauder provides a range of flat roof
waterproofing solutions to make buildings
watertight, insulation for thermal efficiency,
solar PV arrays for renewable energy
generation and green roofs to support the of the stand a bespoke pod will display “One of the most common questions I am
environment and create better living and Bauder’s most innovative roofing solution currently asked is whether we can combine a
working spaces for people. At last year’s show to date. blue roof with solar. BioSOLAR systems can
Bauder launched its most recent addition to The showstopping feature on the stand be very easily combined with a Blue Roof as
its solution offerings in BauderBLUE. for 2019 combines a total of 4 flat roof long as an extensive or biodiverse green roof
This blue roof system has been developed to systems to create one multifunctional is also included. More than any other type of
alleviate flooding in flood sensitive areas in solution. The revolutionary solar PV flat roof it is important to avoid penetrations
accordance with SuDS legislation. Nigel mounting system for biodiverse or extensive through a blue roof. As the BioSOLAR
Blacklock, Bauder’s technical director, spoke green roofs, BioSOLAR,also incorporate system sits above the void former there are no
at the launch. BauderBLUE, essentially bringing 3 risks to the waterproofing and the 3 different
“With the introduction of the SuDS sustainable solutions together in one system. elements work seamlessly together.”
legislation and the subsequent requirements A key element of the BioSOLAR system is For the duration of the show Bauder’s
for developments in built up and flood that the front edge of the PV panel is set at product managers and technical experts will
sensitive areas, the evolution of our around 300mm above the level of the be on the stand to answer all of your
ever-popular green roof system was a natural substrate, which allows liberal growing room questions and discuss any of your upcoming
process. Using rooftop and podium solutions for the extensive vegetation without blocking projects. New for 2019, we have incorporated
will address the excess water issue at source light to the polycrystalline solar cells that a lounge area where you can share any
by providing the necessary drainage to ensure would otherwise reduce the efficiency of the project details you wish to bring along in a
structural integrity along with regulation panels. This height setting also enables light comfortable and relaxed setting. To discover
compliance and optimal waterproofing “ and moisture to reach beneath the panel to all of our products be sure to visit stand D100
This year at Futurebuild, the Bauder st support the plants below. The BauderBLUE at the ExCeL from the 5th to the 7th of
and will be split into 3 main areas to element is a sustainable drainage March at Futurebuild.
display the complete portfolio of Bauder’s method designed to attenuate and manage Can’t make Futurebuild? Contact Alex to
insulation options including its new Tapered stormwater on a flat roof over a 24-hour book a meeting with your dedicated area
insulation scheme as well as showcasing period via a restrictive flow outlet. Tom technical manager.
its full range of waterproofing solutions Raftery, Bauder’s SOLAR manager discusses
and their multiple variations. At the forefront the combinations of systems: 01473 261258 [email protected]

FUTUREBUILD SHOW PREVIEW; PLANNING & DESIGN 75
Launchpad of an exciting new venture

Closer collaboration between RCM,
SPSenvirowall and SPS Facades will see the
sister companies jointly exhibiting at
Futurebuild 2019 at London’s ExCel on
5th-7th March on stand D72. Futurebuild 2019
was chosen as the ideal venue to announce the greater integration
between RCM, SPSenvirowall and SPS Facades. By working closer
together the three companies will open up a joint portfolio of
high-quality innovative products and services meeting the needs of
different sectors across the construction industry. Customers will be
able to choose from a vast array of products for the building envelope.
0800 612 4662 www.buildingboards.co.uk
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Or has your workplace turned paper-free?
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FUTUREBUILD STAND NO C45

BREEAM AWARDS PREVIEW 77
A celebration of
sustainability excellence
Previewing the annual BREEAM Awards, an international celebration of excellence in
sustainable buildings, which will take place on 4 March in London
T
he project teams, clients and • Van Oers United BV facility
buildings shortlisted for the annual Sustainable features include re-use of
BREEAM Awards represent cold and heat from the cooling system for
significant achievement in sustainable climate control in offices, and rainwater
building design, development and recycling.
management. Over 2.2 million buildings are
registered under BREEAM and there are Commercial Projects –
more than half a million projects with Post-Construction
BREEAM certificates globally. The initial • 1-9 Seymour Street, London
shortlists are created by taking the highest The Portman Estate maintained high
scoring projects certified under BREEAM sustainability standards throughout.
each year. • Bloomberg London
The building in the City of London is CollectieCentrum will house some of the leading
already a multi-award winner. art collections in the Netherlands
• Building R7, London
A project in London’s King’s Cross that
continues leading developer Argent’s • Forum Mersin
commitment to achieving the highest BREEAM New Construction and
levels of environmental certification. BREEAM In-Use have helped Forum
• Deloitte’s 1 New Street Square Mersin in Turkey to improve its
Environmental and wellbeing were key processes, and manage cooperation
priorities for the fit-out of Deloitte’s new between landlord, tenants and staff.
Universal Music’s new London HQ office in London.
• EUIPO Edificio AA3 Public Projects – Design
The latest addition to the European • Barry Building
Commercial Projects – Design Union Intellectual Property Office Part of the Royal College of Surgeons’
• New Logic III – The Tube, Tilburg (EUIPO) campus in Alicante. (RCS) historic campus in central London,
This distribution centre is developer • Scherpenhuizen this project retains and enhances its
Dokvast’s fifth BREEAM Outstanding The fruit and vegetable supplier Grade II listed element while replacing a
building. targeted BREEAM Very Good for 1950s section.
• New Logic V, Tilburg this distribution centre in Eindhoven, • CollectieCentrum Nederland
This design by DENC includes airtight evolved to Excellent, and by the Art and heritage collections of the
construction, triple glazing, an 8,250 building’s concept phase was Rijksmuseum, the Holland Open Air
square metre photovoltaic installation, targeting Outstanding. Museum, Paleis Het Loo and the Cultural
and rainwater recycling for toilet Heritage Agency of the Netherlands are
flushing. Commercial Projects – In-Use being brought together in this shared
• Unilever Global Foods Innovation Centre • BINARIUM Business Center sustainable storage centre.
The centre’s design focuses on the themes The regeneration of this old industrial • Ny Horten VGS
of health, flexibility, energy usage, and building in Romania has taken a circular This secondary school is the first public
material efficiency and “circularity.” approach, with the existing structure building in Norway to achieve BREEAM
• Universal Music Group HQ, London combined with Cradle-to-Cradle certified Outstanding design-stage certification.
Universal Studios wanted to equal the products, FSC certified wood, and • The Marshall Building
standard of its nearby HQ building. durable materials. Exemplary standards of sustainable
• Van Gelder Groente & Fruit facility • Edificio Beatriz design are incorporated into the design of
Fruit and vegetable company Van Gelder One of Madrid’s most significant late the London School of Economics and
is developing a state-of-the-art complex 20th century buildings – now a Political Science’s (LSE) Marshall
in Ridderkerk, Netherlands. multi-tenanted office block. Building.

78 BREEAM AWARDS PREVIEW
Public Projects – In-Use

• Björsjö 42:3
Health and wellbeing of building
occupants is a priority for this retirement
home in Gävle, Sweden.
• Dolomiten 1
An optimal indoor climate was high on
the agenda for this retirement home in
Norrtälje, Sweden.
• Landvetter Airport Terminal, Gothenburg
Terminal owner Swedavia is constantly
working to improve its buildings as part
of its broader economic, social and
ecological aims. COFCO Landmark is a flagship development in Beijing
• Ratten 4
A retirement facility in Örebro, Sweden,
is applying BREEAM In-Use to identify this nineteenth century former hop
and measure the scope for environmental warehouse.
Rhyl New School is sustainable and energy-efficient improvements. • 33 Bury Street
• Tabellen 3 This grade II listed building in St James’s,
Reviewing the heating and cooling system central London, has been returned to
• University College London Hospital at the District Court building in Atunda, predominantly residential use.
Phase 4 Sweden, offered the potential to deliver • North Stoneham Park, Phase 1
A state-of-the-art cancer and surgical care significant benefits. BREEAM Communities has been an
facility is being constructed in central • Tabellen 4 integral design tool and framework from
London, much of it underground. Since BREEAM In-Use was applied, a the outset to create a sustainable
• Urbanest Vine Street programme of sustainability works for community.
The mixed-use scheme, combines this Swedish facility has been targeted, • Hoover Building
student accommodation with workspace including a shift to LED lighting. The iconic Hoover Building in west
and exhibition space, has achieved high London, has been converted to residential
levels in all categories of the BREEAM Homes Projects – Design use after laying dormant for more than a
assessment. • 1 Queen Anne’s Gate decade.
This development in Westminster has
Public Projects – Post-Construction included demolition of dilapidated Rewarding regions, real estate,
• Howardian Primary School/Ysgol buildings, new build and the retention of and professions
Gynradd Howardian a Grade II listed facade. There are also Regional Awards for the
Sustainability and good value can go • Falconhoven L-blok Apartments Americas, Asia, Central and Eastern
hand in hand, as this new primary school Developer CIP sought to create homes in Europe, and Western Europe. For the latter
in central Cardiff demonstrates. Antwerp that would offer residents a region, the projects shortlisted are
• National College for High Speed Rail valuable and sustainable investment for Bloomberg London, New Logic III
This college on the outskirts of Doncaster lifetime living. (Tilburg), Deloitte’s 1 New Street Square
provides learning spaces in a highly • Morley House (London) EUIPO Edificio AA3 (Alicante),
efficient and comfortable building, The Crown Estate’s scheme is being Unilever Global Foods Innovation Centre
designed to stand the test of a changing redeveloped behind retained Portland (Wageningen, Netherlands, Van Oers United
climate while providing a local economic stone facades to provide 44 apartments. BV facility (Dinteloord, Netherlands).
boost. • Nomadic House Awards will also be made for the best
• Rhyl New School Developer FRT Developments had never performing BREEAM assessors, as well as
Students are benefitting from this new targeted BREEAM until it came to work categories for architects and M&E
sustainable, energy efficient and modern on its Nomadic House scheme in west consultants who have scored consistently
school. London. highly in BREEAM projects. For the third
• Ysgol Bro Gwaun year in succession, real estate assessment
Rural areas can present challenges Homes – Post-Construction body GRESB and BREEAM are working
in creating all-round sustainable • 122-126 Chancery Lane together to recognise the achievement of
development, but this new teaching block A 35-home development in central “responsible real estate investors.”
for a Pembrokeshire school has achieved London, which combines a grade II listed The 2019 awards ceremony takes place
BREEAM Excellent through its robust Victorian facade with contemporary at the Hilton Bankside on the evening of
and elegant design. living space. Monday 4 March – the eve of Futurebuild
• Ysgol Glan Morfa • 16 Winchester Walk at London ExCel (the event is one of the
Sustainable design is helping to limit the Retaining as much of the external awards’ partners). More details on the
running costs of this new 420-pupil building fabric as possible was a key awards can be found at the website:
primary school in Cardiff. driver in the conversion and extension of www.breeam.com/awards

INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION
There’s a new heavyweight rising on the industrial landscape; the Sanifos.

Packed with over 50 years of expertise and innovation, it’s the big brother to our
Sanicubic range and our most uncompromising lifting station to date. Add to that the
substantial Saniflo shredding system and it’s easy to see why it’s so revolutionary.
Anything’s possible. Visit saniflo.co.uk to see how.
80 STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS
Why concrete remains a

rock-solid design choice
Dr Bill Price of Tarmac Cement discusses why concrete is increasingly
popular with architects for its aesthetic as well as practical characteristics
A
n ever-popular material for The countertop doesn’t need to appear cold
construction, concrete is seeing a or industrial; concrete can complement
new wave of usage and innovation, almost any style of room. The key is to add
thanks to both its aesthetic values and its other warmer, natural textures like fabric or
inherent qualities of strength, durability wood to keep it from feeling too austere.
and affordability. In fact, a 2018 repor Adding inserts or inlays is a great way to
by WGSN highlighted that concrete is personalise a concrete countertop in a
trending across the latest trade shows and kitchen, bathroom, or even outside.
particularly with emerging designers. Whether it’s small stones, pieces of glass or
Innovations in moulding and setting other materials that are mixed throughout
techniques have boosted its versatility, with the concrete, these can all contribute to a
many using the material in unexpected stylish countertop.
and unusual ways. From sophisticated However, as concrete countertops are
board-marked and polished concrete, to generally long, slender, thin beams, it’s
furniture and feature walls – the material critical to use a concrete from a reputable
can make contributions to projects in ways manufacturer with adequate strength and
As the creative glass and steel can’t. quality to prevent cracking, chipping and
shrinkage. Countertops are often the
possibilities of concrete Concrete as a design element centrepiece of the room, and also need
expand, from rough to Commonplace in the 1960s as a key to take a lot of wear. This, plus concrete’s
element of the now notorious Brutalist natural capacity for cooling and
smooth and solid to fluid, architecture movement, modern absorbing heat, makes it the perfect
designers are trying new developments often focus on concrete’s material in this setting.
hard and industrial surface used as a
techniques to achieve contemporary design element, often Board-marked concrete
fresh visual elements contrasted with soft furnishes and
tactile textures. Exposed concrete has
There are a wide range of exterior building
materials used to protect homes from the
moved on from being just an architectural elements. Using poured high strength
industrial material to a source of concrete for exterior walls can be one of
inspiration for interior finishes, entering the most enduring, fire-resistant, thermally
homes via the walls, furniture, floors and retentive and maintenance-free solutions. A
home accessories. concrete wall can last without decay for
Hard-wearing, and with the option of a many years.
rough-hewn texture or even a refined Concrete takes on the shape and texture
look, concrete is becoming a cornerstone of the forms into which it is poured, making
of minimal design. In particular, high it possible to enrich the surface character by
strength concrete (40N) is being used using textured forms. Often, timber is used
increasingly for a range of applications, in combination with concrete walls to add
such as statement kitchen worktops, warmth to the overall composition. For
modern board-formed concrete walls, example, if the concrete has been formed
curved open gutters, and luxury stone with horizontal, rough-board shuttering, the
terrazzo floors. concrete’s surface is imprinted with the
wood’s texture and the two materials work
Concrete countertops together to produce the aesthetic.
Installing concrete countertops is a sure At some point in a cold winter or a hot
way to infuse a stylish aesthetic into your summer, the concrete wall will need
client’s home or commercial application. thermal resistance augmentation, thus

STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS 81
projects, as well as more traditional builds.

Concrete takes on the Also, using a readily available concrete
shape and texture of mix brings greater convenience to
projects. Its availability throughout the
the forms into which it UK means busy contractors can access the
is poured, making it product without travelling too far afield,
while also taking advantage of the
possible to enrich the timesaving and consistency advantages of
surface character using a pre-bagged concrete mix.
Sometimes, especially on smaller
insulation. A solution is to pour a four-inch projects, products can remain outdoors and
exterior concrete wall, installing rigid on site for several months. Something as
insulation on the inner face and then simple as waterproof packaging can protect
pouring the interior four-inch wall to take water vulnerable products and eliminate
advantage of the thermal mass of the wastage through rainwater contamination
concrete on the interior of the building. and damage. It’s also worth considering
This way, the building will attain the specifying concrete mixes that are available
required thermal resistance from the in weatherproof, tear-resistant bags.
insulation while still gaining the durability Overall, as the creative possibilities of
of concrete on the exterior surface. concrete expand, from rough to smooth
and solid to fluid, designers are trying new
Which product to use? techniques to achieve fresh visual elements.
A concrete with excellent workability and This, coupled with its inherent practical
flexural strength such as bagged Blue Circle properties of durability, heat absorption
High Strength (40N) is a prerequisite for and cooling, makes the material a versatile
many small-size design applications in choice for the modern designer.
modern architecture. The concrete can be
moulded into a number of different shapes Dr Bill Price is national commercial
and sizes – perfect for avant-garde style technical manager at Tarmac Cement

STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS; EXTERNAL ENVELOPE 83
Firestone’s RubbergardTM EPDM delivers Latest news, views and more

Firestone Building Products’ RubberGardTM If you like to be kept informed of all
EPDM roofing membrane has been used to the latest news, views, and promotions
help create a woodland haven for holiday for the architectural community, the
makers, foodies and golfing enthusiasts at ADF email newsletters can offer you
the prestigious ‘The Lodges at Feldon Valley’ regular updates straight to your inbox.
Hotel. Firestone Authorised Contractor, The weekly Editor’s Choice newsletter
Weatherfix FRS, was appointed to carry out installation of the includes top news stories curated by
RubberGard EPDM roofing membrane on each of the four satellite the ADF editorial team, while the
lodges. The RubberGard EPDM membrane was installed onto the monthly CPD Focus and fortnightly ADF Newsletter offer updates
roof of all four small lodges within just four days, enabling the main on products, services, events, and learning opportunities available
contractor to begin work on the interiors. from a wide variety of manufacturers and suppliers.
01606 552026 www.firestonebpe.co.uk www.subscribepage.com/adf
Rapid rise for external cladding supplier

A supplier of external cladding systems in North Somerset is on target to hit £8million this year after a hugely
successful 2018. Aquarian Cladding Systems have been supplying brick and terracotta cladding systems to the
UK construction industry since launching just 11 years ago, making the projected turnover, which was helped
by monthly sales topping £1million for the first time in February, even more impressive. For Managing Director
Paul Richards, the rapid rise has been down to a combination of four things – quality products, first-class
technical support, a customer-focused approach and strong supply chain relationships. “We are known as a
reputable supplier acknowledged for the testing and quality of our products,” said Paul, “But, as well as that,
our team have a wealth of knowledge and experience and understand the issues that drive our clients’ decisions.
This company culture has helped us to stand out in what is a crowded market.” Working with architects,
contractors, developers and installation specialists, the company’s cladding systems have been used on buildings
across a wide range of sectors, from residential to commercial, in both the public and private sector.
0808 223 9080 www.aquariancladding.co.uk

EXTERNAL ENVELOPE 85
New SoundSecure Internal Doorset

Premdor’s SoundSecure Internal Doorset boasts
Secured by Design approval and offers up to
40 different designs. SoundSecure apartment
entrance doorsets comply with all performance
and legislative requirements where security, fire
and noise reduction performance are of
paramount importance. From glazed to non-glazed, Moulded Panel
to Portfolio veneers, all doors are supplied with an FD30 fire rated
core as standard; with the option to advance to FD60. SoundSecure
doorsets offer practical reassurance while delivering a stylish aesthetic.
Watch the installation video at youtu.be/TUTh3CUzNfs
0844 209 008 www.premdor.co.uk/internal-doorsets
Profile 22 delivers glazing solution

Profile 22 Flush Tilt and Turn windows have been used
in the construction of flats for University of Derby
students. The vibrant, modern flats accommodate
between four and six students and house 244 students
in total. Given the nature of student accommodation,
and the shape of the building’s aesthetics, the Flush Tilt
and Turn Window from Profile 22 was the best choice
for optimum ventilation and maximisation of space. It has a sash that
is neatly positioned inside the frame of the window to create an
elegant and sleek ‘flush’ appearance that delivers the appearance of
aluminium. The window is Secured by Design accredited.
www.profile22.co.uk
TREMCO systems a hit for car park

The redevelopment of a famous record factory
to the west of London has included the
construction of a visually striking multi-storey
car park, where two waterproofing and wearing
course systems produced by tremco illbruck
have been used to complete a rapid build methodology. The history
of the Old Vinyl Factory at Hayes, Middlesex, is vividly portrayed in
the punched metal screens that clad the seven storey car park structure
portraying screaming teenage fans at a Beatles concert in the sixties.
TREMCO CP polyurethane system were specified to waterproof the
roof deck, as well as TREMCO MMA for the internal floors.
www.tremco-illbruck.com
Sto provide integrated product package

A carefully integrated package of building facade
products provided by Sto has been used to create
attractive new elevations for a building which has
undergone extensive refurbishment. StoTherm Classic
external wall insulation and a brick slip facade
finish combination has been applied to the CityBlock
site in Reading, which provides premium student accommodation.
StoTherm Classic external wall insulation was fixed to the walls with
adhesive for fast and easy installation. The BBA-certified StoTherm
Classic provides outstanding impact resistance of 60 joules, which is
up to 10 times greater than similar cementitious systems.
01418 928000 www.sto.co.uk

86 EXTERNAL ENVELOPE
Garador made to measure roller doors

Garador’s GaraRoll roller doors come in sizes up to 5000mm wide. All doors are purpose made to specification,
to ensure they fit the opening precisely.
The spring assisted design, combined with pressure sensitivity built into the operator which recognises when
there is an obstruction in the doors path, means this door is one of the most advanced and reliable available
on the UK market. Plus, they are electrically operated as standard, so homeowners have the convenience of
opening their garage door with a hand transmitter.
These are the ideal solution for garages which want to retain access to a loft or ceiling space, as the door rolls
up into a box at the head of the garage door opening. Available in a choice of 13 colours and timber effect
finishes, you are sure to find a colour to perfectly suit your build project.
01935 443709 www.garador.co.uk
VEKA Group onsite at the Offsite Show

VEKA Group was happy to meet attendees and discuss new opportunities at the 2018 Offsite Construction
Show. VEKA’s Head of Sales for the South Matthew Adaway said: “As the fenestration industry’s leading
supplier of PVC-U systems, our stand attracted a large number of visitors who were interested in VEKA Group
products and there were a host of different sectors represented. We were able to talk ‘all things VEKA Group’
to architects, housing associations, main contractors, housebuilders and offsite companies, to name just a few.
“Off-site construction has been bubbling away – as an idea – for 20 years or more, and this event illustrated
to me that real, tangible things are definitely happening in this area now. Building in this way makes the process
more precise and promises to eliminate a host of variables that can potentially cause delays on traditional
site-based building projects, such as problematic weather conditions. “VEKA Group is a global brand with a
reputation for quality and reliability, and the versatility of our systems means that we are well suited to meet
a huge spectrum of requirements, whatever the style of property.”
[email protected]

New FlameOut Building Membranes for

FR Safety
F
lameOut building membranes are a and glues are offered with the membrane for
new range of materials developed by effective installation.
Industrial Textiles & Plastics (ITP), Other flame retardant breather membranes
manufacturers with more than two decades in the range include FlameOut Breathe, rated
of experience in flame retardant technology. Class B-s1,d0 (EN 13501-1) and FlameOut
The highest specification product in the Block, flame retardant vapour control layers.
range is FlameOut Breathe Class A, the UK’s FlameOut Breathe FR house wrap is
first Euroclass A2 flame retardant breathable lightweight but strong and combines high
membrane for roof and wall installations. water vapour permeability with excellent
Powerlon FlameOut Breathe Class A is a water tightness. FlameOut Block VCLs are
woven material, engineered with the highest FR rated Class B-s1,d0; with mono-filament
level of flame retardant properties. reinforcement for high tensile strength, they
Independently tested to EN 13501-1, have outstanding water vapour resistance and
FlameOut Breathe Class A is rated A2-s1,d0. low water vapour transmission. FlameOut
Prior to the launch of this innovative New Powerlon FlameOut Breathe Class A breather VCLs come in two grades: FlameOut Block
multipurpose breather membrane, the highest membrane is rated Euroclass A2-s1,d0, the highest (140gsm weight) and FlameOut Block Plus
level of flame retardant breather materials level of fire protection for wall and roof installations (210gsm weight).
offered in the UK were Class 0 (BS 476 Parts Used together, FlameOut Breathe
6 & 7) or Euroclass B. With changes to UK products will continue to expand. membranes and FlameOut Block VCLs offer
building regulations, banning the use of CE Certified FlameOut Breathe Class A is an effective package of superior flame
combustible materials on the external walls heavyweight with very high tensile strength, retardant protection in new construction.
of many new buildings over 18 metres, good water vapour transmission and is rated
industry demand for the highest quality FR W1 for water tightness. Proprietary FR tapes 01347 825200 www.itpltd.com

SPSenvirowall’s Journey to BOPAS

Accreditation
S
PSenvirowall, a UK leading supplier low-performance cementitious renders. applied to any wall structure, lightweight steel
of external wall insulation, render RendaClad is a full facade system made up frame or masonry construction.
and facades, has secured BOPAS of many carefully selected components which SPSenvirowall is delighted that RendaClad
(Buildoffsite Property Assurance Scheme) have been rigorously tested and as an entire is the first and currently only proprietary
accreditation for its innovative, rain screen system makes up one of a very few BBA solution which has undergone the rigorous
cladding, RendaClad for the new build and approved systems of its type which provides BOPAS accreditation process designed to give
offsite construction industry. the reassurance that it will perform over the lenders and surveyors the assurance of
RendaClad was developed for applying a long term. the building materials utilised within a
non-structural and seamless rendered rain The system ensures a fully ventilated and development. This has provided confidence to
screen system to a timber-framed substrate. drained cavity is maintained within the wall the market that the innovative concept has a
It replaces the need to build a structural structure, meeting the requirements of the minimum life expectancy of 60-years.
masonry outer leaf that is finished with NHBC and TRADA. The system can be This accreditation will allow SPSenvirowall
to deliver its RendaClad system to offsite and
modular developments, enabling the supply
of a greater range of projects while providing
the assurance required to satisfy mortgage
lenders and their surveyors, meaning that the
RendaClad system will last for a minimum of
two mortgage cycles
With the challenges brought by the
government to build 250,000 homes per year,
the demand for innovative or non-traditional
methods of construction to replace poor
quality and conventionally constructed
homes has never been greater.
BOPAS accreditation assures lenders,
funders, valuers and purchasers that homes
built from non-traditional means will be
durable and deliver the quality required by
the industry.
01535 661633 www.spsenvirowall.co.uk

Cladding creates a calming appearance

T
he new state-of-the-art 65 bed Cygnet
Hospital mental health facility in
Maidstone has been clad in Abet
Laminati’s MEG exterior grade laminate.
Purpose-built to meet the latest national
specifications for improving mental health
within a therapeutic environment, the hospi-
tal will provide an important and much-
needed service for local patients.
800 square metres of exterior grade MEG
cladding in a 754 Padouk Soft finish were
installed by Rhino Exteriors across various
elevations. MEG was chosen as it carries a
BBA Agrément Certificate and, most impor-
tantly, F1 panels from 6mm and thicker are
rated Class B-s1, d0. This makes them fully incorporate Abet’s digital printing technology. impact. Furthermore, its chemical resistant
compliant for all non-residential applications This means that almost any design, nature and closed structure do not allow
and up to 18m high for residential schemes. photograph or pattern can be reproduced paint in spray cans, various inks, emulsion
This scheme is a perfect example of high in stunning detail to give architects and paints, lipstick or pastel paints to penetrate
performance MEG in action where the need designers unparalleled freedom to create into the decorative layer. This negates the
for high performance and durability is unusual and dramatic building facades. need for any anti-graffiti treatment and
married up with low life-cycle costs and MEG is a self-supporting high pressure makes the surface easy to clean. Samples and
aesthetic design. laminate (HPL) for cladding the exterior of technical literature are available from Abet
The range comprises 58 colours and 31 buildings, balconies and other applications. It sample line.
woodgrains together with 5 concrete and features high resistance to temperature,
metal effect finishes. MEG is also able to climate shock, weathering, UV light and 020 7473 6915 uk.abetlaminati.com
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Cover
WAPPING WHARF, BRISTOL ENERGY ACADEMY EUROPE BLOOMBERG LONDON, CITY OF LONDON
Bosjes Chapel,
Western Cape, South
ADF reports on the lively independent food
quarter created in Bristol’s transformed docks
Cover
Wasl Tower,
Dutch academics collaborate towards a low-
carbon future, in a carbon-neutral building
How the world’s most sustainable office building was designed by
Foster + Partners to be both a good neighbour and a box of surprises THAMES LIDO, READING
Africa Dubai How an architectural practice dived into the restoration challenge of
Steyn Studio’s sculpture in concrete
echoes the surrounding mountains AECOM HEADQUARTERS, LONDON UNStudio designs the world’s tallest
LA FUCINA RESTAURANT, LONDON BANG BANG ORIENTAL, COLINDALE
page 18 The workplace leader puts its own ideas to work
ceramic facade
See page 18 Eating under bulging bricks in Marylebone A new London food hall offered a range of tantalising design challenges modernising a riverside lido while retaining its character
SUNBEAMS MUSIC TRUST, PENRITH, CUMBRIA
ARCHITECTSDATAFILE.CO.UK /ADF-DIGI The creation of the UK’s first purpose-built centre for music therapy –
a rural retreat in the Lakes

Six stars with Nordic Brass

G
ently curving, perforated Nordic Copper alloys include Nordic Bronze, an
Brass solar screens help to define alloy of copper and tin, initially with a similar
the character of a key community colour to Nordic Standard copper, which
building in Melbourne, Australia. They also gradually changes to a stable, dark chocolate
enhance its sustainability, recognised by the brown. The innovative Nordic Royal, an
highest, 6-Star ‘Greenstar’ rating. alloy of copper with aluminium and zinc,
Designed by architects GroupGSA, the enjoys a rich golden through-colour which
North Fitzroy Library and Community Hub remains very stable.
is a three-storey building incorporating a In addition, other Nordic Copper ranges
library, Maternal Child Health Facility and from Aurubis include Nordic Standard ‘mill
various community spaces. The tapered site finish’ and Nordic Brown pre-oxidised
presents long facades to the east and west. copper, offering lighter or darker shades of
The eastern facade allows glimpses into the brown determined by the thickness of the
building, particularly at night, with views out oxide layer.
to the public urban space. The extensive Nordic Blue, Nordic Green
Much of the glazing is shielded by the and Nordic Turquoise ranges have been
curved, vertical screens of perforated Nordic developed with properties and colours based
Brass, each one offset against the next. The on the same brochantite mineralogy found in
pattern formed by the perforations in the natural patinas all over the world. Solid
brass is derived from the dappled light Nordic Brass – which can also be supplied patina colours and various ‘Living’ surfaces
patterns from the trees in the adjacent pre-weathered – is an alloy of copper and zinc are available for each range. A wide choice of
Edinburgh Gardens. This theme continues with a distinctive golden yellow colour. When Nordic Decor mechanically applied surface
internally with perforated Nordic Brass exposed to the atmosphere, the surface begins treatments can also be supplied.
applied to internal features such as the to darken within weeks and can change to a
reception desk. dark brown in around a year. Other Nordic 01875 812 144 www.nordiccopper.com

96 EXTERNAL ENVELOPE; INSULATION
Help us understand you better!

Holdsworth Windows is a family run business specialising
in the manufacture of bespoke steel windows, doors and
screens. Established for over 50 years we have designed,
ADF magazine always endeavours to bring
fabricated and installed windows, doors and screens for a
its readers the most relevant, interesting
wide range of contemporary, listed and historic buildings. content that informs, inspires and helps
you solve challenges within your projects.
Specialists in Steel Windows, Doors & Screens

So that we can improve our understanding
of your professional needs and wants, we’d
appreciate it if you could complete a quick
online survey. The personal information
you provide will only be used to update your subscriber profile. Your
privacy is important to us and your data will not be shared with
anyone outside of netMAGmedia Ltd, publishers of ADF.
www.architectsdatafile.co.uk/adf-ereader-survey
Excellence in unity with Kingspan

Kingspan Kooltherm K103 Floorboard
has been installed as part of a new block
at The Heath School. 1,720m2 of Kingspan
Kooltherm K103 Floorboard was specified
for the ground floor with a further 605m2
of Kingspan Thermapitch TP10 installed
within the roof construction to help the
school towards its target of a BREEAM rating ‘Very Good’. Kingspan
We offer our customers a complete service from design Kooltherm K103 Floorboard has a thermal conductivity of just 0.018
consultation through to supply and installation.
W/m·K across all thicknesses, making it the most thermally efficient
insulation products commonly used.
Tel: 01608 661883 | www.holdsworthwindows.co.uk | Email: [email protected]
Holdsworth Windows, Darlingscote Road, Shipson-on-Stour, Warwickshire, CV34 4PR 01544 387 384 www.kingspaninsulation.co.uk
OPTIM-R makes room for refurbishment
HEMSE
The Kingspan OPTIM-R Flooring System
and Kingspan Thermaroof TR27
LPC/FM have been installed in floor and
roof constructions as part of The Piece
Hall in Halifax. The system comprises
OPTIM-R vacuum insulation panels,
with an exceptionally low thermal conductivity of just 0.007 W/m.K,
and OPTIM-R flex infill strips of the same thickness, which can be
cut to fill any gaps within the insulation layer. The low thermal
conductivity of the OPTIM-R VIPs allowed the desired thermal
performance to be met with a system thickness of just 43 mm.
01544 387 384 www.kingspaninsulation.co.uk/optim-r
Adding excitement to school dinners

Pupils at Filton Avenue Primary School are
enjoying the benefits of offsite construction in
their warm, vibrant new dining hall, erected
in a matter of weeks using the Kingspan TEK
Building System. Kingspan TEK panels comprise
a high-performance insulation core sandwiched
between two layers of OSB/3. They were designed and factory cut
to the project’s unique specifications. This offsite production
process minimised site waste and allowed the panels to be quickly
erected. The Kingspan TEK Building System supported a fabric first
construction approach, limiting the heating demand of the building.
01544 387 384 www.kingspantek.co.uk

Photograph byYiangou Architects
Handmade Bronze Windows, Doors,

Screens and Secondary Glazing
0845 6000 660

www. br o nz ec a s em ent s . com
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98 INSULATION
Turning the sound down

As higher density living becomes more common, nuisance noise and its possible impact on
health is becoming an all-important topic. With one of the most invasive irritations being
impact sound, Chris Willett of Schöck describes an innovative solution for staircases
I
t will come as little surprise that social centre growing by 163 per cent, as well as
surveys across several European Leeds – by 150 per cent, Manchester – 149
countries indicate that noise from per cent and Leicester – 145 per cent. In
neighbours in residential complexes causes terms of sheer numbers, the fastest growing
annoyance to varying degrees. The type of city centre was London, but due to overall
noise can take various forms of course, but population density this amounted to a
a particularly invasive irritation is impact relatively low 22 per cent increase.
sound. Footsteps on common stairs and
stairwells is a typical example, transmitting Soundproofing standards
sound through solid structures and cavities under scrutiny
in the building. This level of urban migration is resulting
This can become more than just an in a marked increase in the density of
annoyance however, and a number of residential living and, in the interests
health studies have looked into the of noise health protection, existing
different effects of ‘community noise’ on manadatory soundproofing standards (of
individuals. The findings are wide-ranging, which common stairs and impact sound is
but suggest that regular noise interference an important feature) are coming under
can result in symptoms such as sleep ever-increasing scrutiny. Currently, Part E of
loss, headaches, anxiety and loss of the Building Regulations recommend
concentration, and in some cases raised performance standards for “separating
blood pressure and even an increase in the walls, separating floors and stairs that have
potential for aggressive behaviour. So with a separate function” as being less than or
the inevitable move towards higher density equivalent to 62 dB. The European average
living in many European towns and cities, for staircases is around 53 dB, in some
appropriate acoustic performance standards individual cases even stricter. This is
are becoming more important than ever significant when you consider that for
for residents. human hearing, a 10 dB difference is
FOOTSTEPS equivalent to twice the amount of noise
Impact sound is a particularly invasive irritation Urban living on the rise disturbance. The first ever standard in
There is, however, considerable disparity Europe to specify a test procedure for
between UK mandatory acoustic standards impact sound insulation elements was
and those in many parts of Europe. This is published in Germany in 2016. (DIN
possibly a result of the historical differences 7396). This was a standardised laboratory
in dwelling types. In the UK only 14 per test procedure for acoustically measuring
cent of the population have traditionally isolation systems for solid staircases.
lived in apartments, one of the lowest
European percentages, whereas the average A basis for verifying
for apartment living across Europe is 48 per acoustic insulation
cent and in many cases higher. In Germany, DIN 7396 specifies a test with realistic
for example, it’s over 60 per cent. configurations and typical building loads
However things are changing in the on staircases. The weighted normalised
UK, where urban and therefore primarily impact sound pressure level (L‘n,w) as
apartment living, is dramatically on the rise. defined in DIN 7396 can be used as a
According to the Office of National basis for verifying acoustic insulation in
Statistics, between 2002 and 2015 buildings. This is fine in principle, but in
Liverpool was the fastest growing city reality, during the construction process
centre, with a population increasing by 181 soundproofing solutions are often used
per cent. Other cities are close behind, that do not comply with longer term
examples being Birmingham, with a city requirements. Individual elastomer supports

INSULATION 99
Acoustic bridges will occur, and sound reduction

become ineffective, if the joints between the wall and
staircase allow any dirt and material ingress
for example may not protect the joint areas fixed, and can slip. This can result in more
completely, with the result that dirt and than just the concrete edge breaking due to
plaster can find their way into the gaps, incorrect support; it also harbours the risk
causing acoustic bridges. Other materials of dirt and gravel getting into the gap
may result in lower sound insulation between staircase and floor slab or landing.
performance, moreover there is often no It takes only one piece of gravel to reduce
acoustic validation for on-site solutions. acoustic insulation performance by around
Soft materials have a high risk of creating 10 dB. By contrast, a system that envelopes
sound bridges, as stones or construction the entire staircase minimises the risk of
debris may have been transferred into the acoustic bridges.”
gaps. Also, if harder materials are used, Seven main product types are mixed and
such as polystyrene or foam, there is a matched to form a fully integrated impact
transmission through the material itself soundproof system, At the system’s heart is STAIRWAY TO SILENCE
An integrated impact sound insulation solution has
and compliance with even with the an elastomer support, formulated and been developed for straight and winding staircases
minimum requirements is jeopardised. designed to ensure optimum acoustic
To achieve these with construction site insulation and low deflection. Compared
materials, the whole staircase must be free with conventional strip supports, it assures
of sound bridges. an impact sound level difference of
approximately 32 dB, which constitutes an
Creating an impact sound solution improvement of around 10 dB.
for staircases Acoustic bridges will occur, and the
An integrated impact sound insulation sound reduction become ineffective, if the
solution has been developed for all joints between the staircase wall and the
structural subsections on both straight and staircase (soffit and landing) allow any
winding staircases. Known as Tronsole, this dirt and material ingress. A key component
system has been designed to facilitate of the system is designed to ensure complete
straightforward installation. Pascal Maier, soundproofing by totally sealing the joint.
international product manager for Tronsole The system is suitable for on or offsite
at Schöck comments: “Good soundproofing construction, and for emergency exits; it
is becoming increasingly important in also complies with the requirements for
quality construction. Staircases in particular fire resistance class R90 (subject to
and the elimination of impact sound and appropriate on-site additional
acoustic bridges is essential. The system reinforcement of the landing).
provides standard-compliant soundproofing
in apartment blocks and multi-use
buildings.” Maier continues: “An individual Chris Willett is UK managing director
elastomer support under the stairs is not at Schöck

100 INSULATION; HEATING, VENTILATION & SERVICES
Let’s get Creative – Soundtect Acoustics

set you Free
U
K based acoustic solutions commercial interior design spec. The sheets
manufacturer and supplier Soundtect, are available in 23 colours and a soon to be
recently announced the launch of their launched new line of finishes including
freestyle product range, a lightweight, semi wood and stone and can be integrated as
rigid sound absorbing panel that can used in stylish wall and ceiling panels or as suspended
a variety of design and interior solutions. structures to create a standalone feature.
What makes Freestyle so innovative is its The product capabilities are extensive –
incredible versatility – providing the perfect panels can be bold and vibrant and arranged
noise absorption solution in any domestic or to create an interesting pattern, or neutral to
blend in and be discreet – that’s the beauty As a recycled product, Soundtect is an
of Freestyle. Made from 100 per cent ideal choice for greener projects and with
polyester, 70 per cent of which is performance levels of up to 1.0 NRC the
post-consumer recycled PET material, panels are acoustic to the core.
Freestyle is completely safe, environmentally By creating highly design led panels,
friendly, non-toxic, non-allergenic and Soundtect has camouflaged acoustic function
incredibly easy to maintain. with imagination and produced beautiful
Soundtect, now in its 9th year, is patterns that are technically admirable due
internationally recognised for their products to their finely tuned balance of reverberation
that not only address the issue of control and sound absorption.
reverberation but also add a positive Add this to fine design; a wow factor has
design feature to rooms or areas in entered the room.
commercial, educational, hospitality and
residential applications. 0845 548 0518 www.soundtect.com
Vintage Cast Iron Radiators

EXPERTS IN THE SALE, REFURBISHMENT
AND RENOVATION OF NEW AND
ORIGINAL CAST IRON RADIATORS
Let us add warmth

and perfection to
your next project.
For an informal
chat call Andrew
or visit our website.
07908 971657
www.castironradiatorrenovation.co.uk

INSULATION; HEATING, VENTILATION & SERVICES 101
New membrane addresses airtightness

The A. Proctor Group has launched a new
wall membrane composite, which will improve
airtightness levels whilst at the same time addresses
the need to reduce thermal bridging. Wraptherm is
a high-performance self-adhesive membrane
composite specifically developed to be applied
during the refurbishment of existing buildings, and specifically
where there is a requirement to enhance the thermal and airtightness
performance of the building. Wraptherm consists of a 10mm
Spacetherm insulation blanket bonded to the face of Wraptite, the
industry recognised vapour permeable, self-adhesive airtight membrane.
01250 872261 www.proctorgroup.com
Specification easier with new guide

Knauf Insulation has launched its new Solutions
Guide to make specifying the right insulation for
every application quicker and easier than ever
before. The guide features the company’s extensive
range of non-combustible, high-performance
insulation ordered by application. This means
customers, including architects and specifiers, can
identify which products are best suited for roofs, walls, floors and fire
protection. Product data detailing features and benefits are then listed
in full at the back of the Solutions Guide. The guide also includes
information about the company’s extensive sustainability credentials.
01744 766 666 www.knaufinsulation.co.uk/solutions-guide
LONGFLOOR liquid cement screed

Longcliffe Quarries are now supplying
LONGFLOOR, a groundbreaking dry
powder bulk binder for the manufacture of
liquid cement screeds. LONGFLOOR has
major advantages over both traditional
screeds and anhydrite/gypsum flowing screeds. It can be laid at ten
times the speed of traditional screeds, manual handling is avoided and
a denser, more even surface and creamy smooth finish achieved.
LONGFLOOR dries faster than anhydrite/gypsum based flowing
screeds. Contamination and blistering issues with wet concrete or
cement based floor adhesives are totally avoided.
01629 540284 www.longfloor.co.uk
42 Berners Street transforms Fitzrovia

A leading provider of underfloor air
conditioning systems, AET Flexible Space
has completed the supply and commissioning
of underfloor air conditioning equipment at
42 Berners Street, Fitzrovia. The 27,300
sq. ft. building is a high quality new build
development created through the demolition of two town houses,
offering 22,000 sq. ft. office accommodation. The system specified at
42 Berners Street is a CAM-C direct expansion system, installed
throughout the seven office floors with each floor divided into two
separate zones, each served by a CAM-C25 downflow unit.
01342 310400 www.flexiblespace.com

HEATING, VENTILATION & SERVICES; INTERIORS 103
A triumph of innovation: The Central Bank of Ireland, renovated with MEDITE

The renovation of the Central Bank of Ireland, on the banks of the River Liffey, is Ireland’s first ever BREEAM
“Outstanding” rated building. Architects Henry J Lyons achieved this by designing the large sweeping interiors
to be as user friendly as possible for the bank’s staff by specifying acoustic wood panels from Woodfit Acoustics,
made from MEDITE PREMIER FR. This specialist MDF panel from MEDITE SMARTPLY is fire rated for
safe use in public buildings, exceeds the stringent CARB2 emissions measure, and is produced using FSC
certified timber, from sustainably managed forests in Ireland. Colin Wheatley, Product Manager at MEDITE
SMARTPLY explained: “With responsible management, timber is a 100 per cent renewable natural resource.
BREEAM encourages us to use timber responsibly, and to create environments that are safe and healthy for
occupants, in a way that will contribute to the maintenance of the natural world. The Central Bank of Ireland’s
renovation is a stunning example of this. In its safety-conscious specification of MEDITE PREMIER FR, the
building has a fire rated panel that also happens to be aesthetically beautiful.”
mdfosb.com/en/medite/products/medite-premier-fr
Convenient and paper-free The latest addition to the Vision brand!

Enjoy reading ADF but find it’s not always Percy Doughty is excited to announce the latest
convenient to have the printed magazine? addition to the Vision brand, the E-Line range
Or has your workplace turned paper-free? of contemporary luxury electric fires. These
The Digital Issue offers you the same stunning appliances are the ultimate home
content, delivered straight to your inbox investment and are available in wall mounted or
and accessible via smartphone, tablet floor standing options. All the appliances will
and desktop computers. Be among the first come as panoramic as standard but can be transformed to front facing
to read all the latest features, comment, or corner right and left with the use of a conversion kit which is
interviews, and more, before the print included in the fire at no extra cost making it one of the most versatile
issue has even been delivered! What’s more, the Digital Issue includes on the market. The new collection has a range of exquisitely designed
interactive links to featured companies. Subscribe for free now. suites available in a variety of materials designed to suit every interior.
www.subscribepage.com/adf [email protected]

104 INTERIORS
Evaporating energy costs in the washroom

I
magine a brand new, “green” building. For exceptional energy savings and
It’s been designed with sustainability in enduring design, Bobrick has introduced
mind every step of the way, from the the industry’s lowest wattage jet dryer for
cladding materials on the wall panels to sustainability and economy. The new B-7125
its energy-efficient lighting system. However, InstaDry™ surface-mounted high-speed hand
the washroom also provides opportunities dryer supports the high-speed hand-drying
to support the architect’s green objective, experience that today’s patrons expect,
facilitate long-term savings through without the high operating costs typically
sustainable operation and uphold the original associated with competitive units.
aesthetic vision. Functioning at only 200 watts, InstaDry is
In recent years, evolving consumer ideal for high-traffic facilities such as airports
preferences have driven demand for hand and other transportation hubs, stadiums,
dryers with faster dry times. Thus, high-speed restaurants and retail spaces. Even in the
dryers (or jet dryers) that hasten traffic flow busiest environments, InstaDry has a life
have increased in popularity, especially in expectancy of approximately 7,500 hours,
high-traffic washrooms. However, facilities which can equate to nearly ten years in some
that employ jet dryers should take special facilities. Its annual operating costs can be up Today, InstaDry makes it easier for facility
care when it comes to product selection. to 80 per cent less than other leading dryer operators and managers to achieve their goals
Specifically, many jet dryers are primary brands and its low power consumption and operate washrooms with high economic
culprits of high energy usage and long-term allows multiple units to be installed on one and environmental value. For architects,
increased operating costs in the washroom. circuit breaker. that sustainable operation enables design
Further, costly operation often prompts In the 1940s and 1950s, hand dryers took decisions that endure and products that aren’t
facility managers to replace products such as between 30 and 40 seconds to dry hands replaced by less aesthetic accessories early in
hand dryers early in the washroom’s thoroughly and operated at about 2300 the washroom’s lifetime.
lifetime – compromising the designer’s – watts—roughly equivalent to the energy
functional intention. requirements of two dishwashers in 2018. 020 8366 1771 www.bobrick.co.uk
Dallmer unveils new shower channels

In response to the growing demand for level-access
showers, Dallmer has added two more new flush-in-
floor shower channels to its DallFlex system, bringing
the number of Dallmer shower channels that can be
combined with a single drain body to an impressive
nine! CeraFloor Individual is the elegant shower
channel that boasts outstanding design. The shower channel comes in
a length of 1500 mm and can be shortened to suit the specific shower
area. CeraFrame Individual is a compact, short shower channel. The
only thing you can see is a discreet 300 x 50 mm rectangle. The short
shower channel is the perfect frame for a minimalist cover plate.
01787 248244 www.dallmer.com
Hilclare’s new compact ceiling light fitting

Hilclare – the exclusive distributor of Sammode
lighting in the UK – has unveiled a
new compact ceiling light fitting for diffuse
lighting; Sammode Stifter. Commonly specified
throughout industries such as food processing, Stifter boasts an IP69K
rating – the highest protection available – and provides protection
against ingress of dust, high temperature and high pressure water. It
is ideal for use in conditions where equipment must be carefully
sanitised. Easy and quick to install with low maintenance, Stifter is
available in three colour options – 2700K, 3000K, and 4000K – with
each one offering two lengths to suit multiple installations.
[email protected]

INTERIORS 105
Benif Interior Film on display at NEC

Benif Interior Film from David Clouting
was specified to refurbish one of the
washroom facilities at the NEC. Specialist
contractor T6 transformed the washroom in
under seven days covering the walls, cubicle
doors and paneling with a selection of
designs from the Benif Interior Film range.
Manufactured by LG Hausys, Benif is a self-adhesive, architectural
film which can be applied to most interior surfaces. With over 400
designs and finishes to choose from, walls, doors, paneling, desks etc.
can be easily refurbished to provide a stunning, cost effective finish.
www.davidclouting.co.uk
Maxwood completes No.90 Fetter Lane

Pendant bulb lighting overhanging concrete-
effect vanity tops, against Italian-made
metal splashbacks provided plenty of wow
factor on No.90 Fetter Lane.This project,
completed with JRA Architects for CORE
& Evans Randall Investors, shows what is
achievable through close collaboration with
all design teams, site-trades and suppliers, even when using overseas
manufacturers. As always, we are grateful for the praise of Knight
Harwood, who thanked Maxwood for “Being positive with resolving
any items and ensuring the management was always in place.”
020 3657 7615 www.maxwoodwashrooms.com
Splash up colour schemes

Lustrolite’s acrylic panels are one of the
most suitable materials for bathroom
and kitchen splashbacks. Not only do
they have a sleek, modern look
and finish; they are incredibly easy to
clean and maintain. The panels are
highly-resistant to harsh chemicals and
can be cleaned with just warm water and a soft microfibre cloth. The
non-stick surface prevents the growth of mould and bacteria as well
as soap or calcium build-up; perfect for the home. Lustrolite panels
are ideal for any interior scheme.
www.lustrolite.co.uk
Sixth bathroom pod contract

Offsite Solutions has been awarded a £1.6m
contract for Crown Student Living. Crown
Place in Swansea will be Offsite Solutions’
sixth and largest student accommodation
scheme for the developer and brings the total
value of its projects for Crown Student Living
to £6.8 million. Offsite Solutions offers the
UK’s largest range of bathroom pods to suit different building types
and applications. Alan Pulver, Director of Crown Student Living, said:
“We like dealing with Offsite Solutions and would never consider
traditional bathroom construction for any of our schemes.”
[email protected]

INTERIORS 107
The offsite route to accessibility

Chris Sutton from On the Level discusses the challenge of delivering accessible living for
an ageing population, and the benefits of offsite bathroom construction
O
ne of our greatest societal
challenges is how we meet the
needs of an ageing population.
We all welcome the opportunity to live
longer, yet with improved longevity comes
the pressure to provide appropriate and
accessible living space for older people.
From care home beds to specialist social
housing, adapting existing homes to
building granny flats, we are struggling to
deliver enough bespoke accommodation
to meet the requirements of the
older generation. How might offsite
construction and modular pods help
speed up delivery, while offering better
quality and more accessible spaces for our
ageing demographic?
Our population is definitely ageing.
According to the Office for National
Statistics, by 2066 there will be an
additional 8.6 million people aged 65
years and over – a population roughly the
size of London. In 2016, people over 85
accounted for just 2 per cent of the
population, but fast forward 50 years and
The construction sector will struggle
that is forecast to rocket to 7 per cent.
As we live longer, our health needs to meet the challenge given the skills
A Construction Industry
become more complex and the places we shortages and low productivity. To provide Board white paper
live must adapt to our changing demands. an adequate supply of care home places in
In the UK we are already struggling to the midst of a housing crisis, it will require
revealed that 42 per cent
provide appropriate accommodation for some radical changes. of construction firms
our existing population. As it continues to One solution is to exploit offsite
grow as well as age, how do we respond to construction. The manufacture and
employing over 100 staff
the challenges that presents? pre-assembly of construction components believe they will be using
Many argue that Britain faces a social within a controlled factory setting can
care crisis. Research published by revolutionise the provision of accessible
offsite methods in five
Newcastle University in the Lancet medical accommodation for our ageing population. years’ time
journal last year found there will be an It speeds up delivery, reduces costs,
additional 353,000 older people with minimises waste and ensures greater
complex needs by 2025, requiring 71,000 quality control. The Government has
extra care home beds. recognised the value of this new approach,
Yet this need to ramp up delivery of care whilst a Construction Industry Training
home provision comes at a time when the Board (CITB) white paper revealed
construction industry is already under that 42 per cent of construction firms
enormous pressure. A research paper by employing over 100 staff believe they
Heriot-Watt University on behalf of the will be using offsite methods in five
National Housing Federation indicates years’ time.
that England faces a shortfall of four When providing accessible residential
million homes and needs to build an care for older people, features such
additional 340,000 a year until 2031. as modular pod wet rooms can bring

108 INTERIORS
significant benefits. They can form in relation to social housing. The UK is in

a bespoke part of a larger offsite dire need of more affordable quality
construction project or be slotted into homes, which can stand the test of time.
an existing building as part of a wider As the Government grapples with the need
refurbishment. to boost social housing provision, features
Bathrooms are one of the greatest such as pod wet rooms can help future
potential hazards for older people and a proof a home and ensure it meets the needs
great deal of thought needs to go into their of occupiers with limited mobility.
design. Wet room floor solutions from On We need more strategies to ensure that
The Level for instance, provide made-to- as people grow older, everyone in the UK
measure environments, which prioritise will be able to live somewhere which meets
When providing accessibility. They are far quicker to install their needs. That will not only involve
accessible residential than those constructed on-site, incorporate delivering more new-build homes but
an innovative waterproofing system, and adapting existing properties.
care for older people, allow the security of level access showers. Those in the offsite construction sector
features such as modular What’s more, these modular solutions must rise to the challenge and play a
could easily be installed into people’s pivotal role in the provision of appropriate
pod wet rooms can bring houses. Many older people wish to delay living spaces. Offsite and modular
significant benefits going into residential care for as long as construction businesses must take the
possible and would prefer to stay in their opportunity and be ready to work with
own home. Adaptations such as installing Government and the wider construction
a wet room pod, tailored to meet their industry to increase offsite capacity,
specific needs, would mean they could live investing further in manufacturing
independently for longer. A customised capability and developing modular
bolt-on bathroom annex is a quick and construction techniques that can address
easy way to make a home user-friendly. the needs people at every stage of life.
Providing homes that are fit for purpose
is critical when confronting the challenges Chris Sutton is business development
of an ageing population. This is also true director at On the Level

110 INTERIORS
Schlüter-Systems introduces statement

designer shelving
R
eleased at Cersaie 2018 and offering
new possibilities for the creation
of stylish features on tiled walls,
Schlüter®-SHELF is a welcome introduction
to Schlüter-Systems’ range of solutions for tile
and stone.
SHELF avoids the need to drill through
finished coverings (and the waterproofing
beneath) in pursuit of a shelving solution.
Instead, products in the range are designed to
coincide with grout lines, creating a more
aesthetically pleasing and harmonious feel
across an installation as well as preventing
damage to its layers.
Three variants are available:
• Corner (SHELF-E) – range includes
options for standard or retrofit installation
• Niche insert (SHELF-N) – sized to slot Schlüter®-KERDI-LINE-STYLE/-DRAIN- in three of the most popular Schlüter®-
into the grout joints within a Schlüter niche STYLE grates released at Cersaie 2017, TRENDLINE finishes – Ivory, Stone Grey
• Conventional (SHELF-W) – with anchor- allowing for co-ordination across the and Dark Anthracite.
ing legs for embedding into adhesive drainage and storage elements of a room
The shelves feature the distinctive design. They are available not only in a 01530 813396
FLORAL and CURVE designs of the smart brushed stainless steel, but also www.schluterspecifier.co.uk

magrini baby
changing units
Magrini baby changing units
provide a hygienic and safe place
for changing your smallest customers.
The contemporary style incorporates
extra-deep sides providing an intrinsic
safety barrier and the units have a unique
hinge system preventing small fingers
from being trapped.
Magrini baby changing units are
available in a choice of colours to suit
modern commercial washrooms.
tried & trusted by

young professionals
safe - strong - stylish
t: 01543 375311 • e: [email protected] • w: www.magrini.co.uk

Tel: 01543 375311 ࠮ Email: [email protected] ࠮ www.magrini.co.uk
112 INTERIORS
Inspirational acoustics for motivational

office design
A
leading global manufacturer of Heradesign ceiling baffles, fitted in three
innovative audio technology has colours and sizes, create a striking design
opened a new UK HQ in Edinburgh. feature in the stairwells, circulation areas,
The company is recognised for its games room and break-out spaces. Sound
award-winning corporate culture and its new control is key to making these places work.
office interior reflects this ethos with facilities Optimum acoustic performance is achieved
designed to generate a collaborative and by varying the distances between the rows of
vibrant workplace. Heradesign ceiling rafts baffles. The baffles ensure any noise from
and baffles from Knauf AMF make a positive people travelling up and down the stairs or
contribution to this vision by creating a along the corridors does not disturb those
healthy acoustic environment. using the adjoining open areas for meetings.
Michael Laird Architects designed the Heradesign is a versatile product, its
four-storey office which has a variety of the ducts and pipes, creating an eye-catching surface can be matched to any colour,
highly functional, flexible, inspirational ceiling design. enabling it to enhance any design aesthetic. It
spaces and workplace settings to support Open plan areas can generate intrusive is available in a wide selection of shapes, face
creative thinking. Heradesign with its organic noise. Research shows poor acoustics can patterns, edge details and sizes, and can be
wood-wool woven surface fits seamlessly into harm productivity and staff morale. The fixed to walls or suspended as ceilings,
this contemporary interior, helping to create Class A sound absorption of Heradesign baffles and rafts. Manufactured from robust
a motivational place to work. In the large helps improve staff wellbeing by effectively sustainable materials, Heradesign offers high
open-plan office spaces, Heradesign ceiling reducing all unwanted background noise impact resistance and superior fire resistance,
rafts are fixed directly to the soffit, sitting ensuring staff can concentrate, and that which is paramount for any building.
above the exposed services. The light grey meetings in the pods surrounding the open
colour of Heradesign matches the chrome of office spaces remain private. [email protected] www.knaufamf.co.uk
Changing places for invisible disability

Have you ever needed to ‘go’ when away from home, and not been able to easily find a toilet? Add to that
feeling the fact that you need more space, or special equipment, or that you’ve had an accident because of
continence problems. Building designers and operators are being urged to “hold that thought” when creating
interior spaces. Up to 6 million people in the UK are affected by continence issues, according to latest figures
from the NHS. For many, conventional ‘away from home’ toilets are still not suitable: they need more space,
and/or equipment – a Changing Places toilet. Under current Building Regulations and British Standards, a
Changing Places should be provided in any facilities to which numbers of the public have access, and/or spend
a length of time. It should be in addition to any wheelchair-accessible toilets, and, as a minimum, be 12m2,
with a ceiling track hoist, peninsular toilet and adult-sized height adjustable changing bed. The Toilets-
Provision & Accessibility Bill currently going through Parliament will, if enacted, upgrade that to a compulsory
requirement. Visit the Closomat website for more information.
0161 969 1199 www.clos-o-mat.com
Ceiling looks good and sounds great (Con)figure your options

Employees at the Foyer Assurance offices A new option in bathroom specification, believed
in Leudelange Luxemborg are delighted to be unique in the shower/wash dry toilet sector,
with their recently refurbished staff has been launched by Closomat. Closomat has
cafeteria. The new ceiling features two introduced a “configurator” on its website to give
natural material finishes in veneered designers and potential purchasers the ability to
wood and Hunter Douglas Architectural’s personalise their new Asana shower (wash/dry)
exciting new HeartFelt® modular felt toilet, and see it in preview, before buying. Just
ceiling system. The veneered wood grill panels in oak, offer a by clicking on the various options, potential
directional flow away from the serving and preparation areas and act customers can create their ideal style combination. Options
as a distinguishing feature against the HeartFelt® panels in black that encompass concealed cistern, surface-mounting, back panel finish and
were installed over the seated areas. colour, and a range of flush mechanisms.
01604 648229 www.hunterdouglas.co.uk 0161 969 1199 www.clos-o-mat.com

114 INTERIORS
Kährs Group introduce new designs

at BAU show
E
urope wood flooring manufacturer board formats and rustic herringbone designs
Kährs Group have introduced a range with saw marks were also displayed, and will
of new flooring designs during be available in the UK later in the year.
Munich’s BAU show in January. Innovative Shown for the first time at BAU, ‘Kährs
wood designs for 2019 were presented, Luxury Tiles’ is a comprehensive offering of
including reclaimed-themed designs, ultra modern, waterproof and phthalate-free
matt wood floors and a brand new luxury tile designs in Dry Back, Click and
‘Boardwalk’ collection of modern rustic Loose Lay. The LT product range includes
wood floors. However, stealing the show was over 170 wood and stone designs that utilise
the Group’s exciting launch of an entirely high-resolution technology with no repetition
new product category – Kährs Luxury Tiles. and a highly durable ceramic coating – the
Over 250,000 visitors enjoyed BAU 2019, most abrasion resistant and robust coating
the ‘World’s Leading Trade Fair for on the market. The range also introduces
Architecture, Materials and Systems’ held in a selection of PVC-free designs with
Munich, Germany this January. With an especially low VOC values – Dry Back
impressive exhibition stand spanning over Enomer®, and a Marine range available for
200 sqm - including an integrated bar area – handscraped designs. Following the success marine ship projects.
Kährs proudly showcased their new 2019 of ultra matt wood collections ‘Lux’ and Please contact Kährs for more information
wood flooring designs with large, striking ‘Lumen’ last year, new grey and white toned and availability for the new wood and LT
wall samples and within an example ‘shop-in- ultra matt lacquered designs in Kährs product ranges – all suitable for domestic and
shop' point of sale concept. These included ‘Capital’ and ‘Lumen’ collections were also commercial projects.
an entire new modern rustic collection introduced, alongside three reclaimed-themed
‘Boardwalk’ comprising of four single strip, designs with a unique, worn appearance. XL 023 9245 3045 www.kahrsflooring.com
Age-friendly housing – adaptable and ‘care ready’

Guidance billed as ‘a new bar for the design of future housing for an ageing population’ is reiterating the need
for homes to be adaptable and ‘care ready’. One of the simplest means of ensuring that is met is by specifying
a toilet that can evolve with people’s changing needs, says Closomat. Closomat’s range of shower toilets reflect
contemporary design, with floor-standing and wall-mounted options that can be configured to individual
choice – even in terms of concealed cistern, back panels, flush mechanisms. Uniquely, they can be personalised
to individual user needs initially and retrospectively, so can evolve as the user ages to accommodate changing
circumstances, mobility and dexterity. The company’s website is the ‘go to’ resource for specifiers involved
in designing for ageing and/or disabled people, with a raft of white papers, NBS specifications, CAD blocks
to simplify the process and deliver an appropriate, compliant solution. The expertise within the company
represents the combined wealth of knowledge amassed from almost 60 years of helping disabled people
optimise their dignity and independence in the bathroom, at home and away.
0161 969 1199 www.clos-o-mat.com
Osmo excels at Oxford Inspirational architectural ironmongery

When Brasenose College extended its student Project Specification Group, a unit of ASSA ABLOY
library into the old cloisters and required Opening Solutions UK & Ireland understands the
a hardwearing wood finish for the tops of the importance of quality and attention to detail and
new desks, they turned to Osmo UK to provide has therefore launched new ranges of design-led
a product that would protect and preserve ironmongery to complement any project. The new
the wooden surfaces. The college contracted professional cabinet ranges of architectural ironmongery incorporate a
maker, David Haddock to create the extended library and stipulated wide variety of materials such as bronze, wood and
that the new desk tops be protected with Osmo UK Polyx®-Oil, a chrome and have been fashioned to make an impact, with designs
premium wood finish that is guaranteed to keep wooden surfaces in featuring in prestigious projects across the world. The new Elmes,
top condition. Polyx®-Oil is a high quality, water-repellent and Fusital and Valli&Valli ranges combine aesthetics with function,
tread-resistant wood finish based on natural ingredients. ergonomics, safety, longevity and environmental responsibility.
www.osmouk.com [email protected]

INTERIORS 115
A sound specification for

Bona Craft Oil 2K
B
ona Craft Oil 2K has been specified for specification was changed to highly durable
the restoration of the Beech floor in the Bona Craft Oil 2K, a penetrating, two
world’s largest purpose-built recording component oil with an equally impressive
studio. The work was undertaken by Bona drying time of just eight hours for the
Certified Contractors, CMT Wood Flooring ‘Neutral’, uncoloured version – meaning the was then applied with a Bona FlexiSand
of Birmingham, contracted to commercial fit studio could be put back into full use the day buffing machine – using a red pad – an
out specialists, Prestige Interiors. after treatment. efficient way of applying oil to a floor this
The London based studio is in constant use To retain a sense of history in the space, it size and which ensured the surface layer of
by orchestras and choruses. It was therefore was also decided not to use a darker oil on timber was uniformly saturated.
essential that a highly durable finish was the lighter coloured blocks (that were laid Bona Craft Oil 2K is a unique formula
applied, that would not only protect the after a stage was removed from one end of based on modified plant-based oil and has a
surface from the high levels of traffic but the studio) so they matched the original very low VOC content of less than 4 per cent.
would also dry quickly to minimise downtime darker coloured floor. However, had the It’s the perfect treatment for a wide variety of
in this very busy space. CMT flooring studio team wanted to create a uniformly wood species including tricky ones such as
initially recommended the use of Bona Traffic coloured floor, this could have easily been cherry and walnut, and it produces a strong
HD, the toughest waterborne lacquer achieved by treating the lighter blocks with water and stain resistant surface that is ready
manufactured by Bona, and which dries so one of the darker coloured versions of Craft for use in 8 or 12 hours (depending if neutral
quickly that the floor can be put back into Oil 2K. or coloured versions are used). In situations
full use in just 12 hours. Before applying the oil, the CMT team where supreme surface durability is required,
However, the studio team were concerned repaired several loose and damaged blocks Bona Craft Oil 2K can be overcoated with
that using a lacquer finish on the floor, which and then sanded the floor and filled all gaps any version of Bona Traffic lacquer.
had been previously oiled, might change with filler mixed with dust from the final
its acoustic properties. Consequently, the sanding pass. One coat of Bona Craft Oil 2K 01908 525 150 www.bona.com
Howe Green provides innovative access solution for NHS’s newest hospital
Howe Green Ltd has supplied nearly 70 covers to the newest and most digitally advanced hospital in the NHS
estate. The £200 million redeveloped Chase Farm Hospital, in Enfield, became fully operational last autumn.
Howe Green’s Visedge Series Flexible Floor Access Covers and 7500 Series Medium-Duty Aluminium Floor Access
Covers were installed throughout the 20,000 square metres of internal flooring. The Visedge covers were infilled
with vinyl flooring. The floor finish for the 7500 Series varied depending upon the location of the cover. The
Howe Green access covers enable safe and easy access to building services concealed under the flooring of the
hospital. The Visedge Series provide a durable, lightweight, non-rusting access solution for flexible sheet flooring
systems in environments with pedestrian footfall, wheeled trolleys and sack trucks. Double sealed, the Visedge
covers are ideal for a busy hospital where the highest standards of hygiene and security are required. 7500 Series
Medium-Duty Floor Access Covers are used for all types of hard floor finish, including ceramic tiles, terrazzo
and wood. They offer a five tonne pneumatic tyre wheel load suitable for cars and light delivery vehicles.
01920 463230 www.bilcouk.co.uk
Flotex offers Ashley Hicks design freedom Beaulieu Fibres launches UltraBond
Interior designer, Ashley Hicks, has had his unique Beaulieu Fibres International unveils a unique
design ‘Specimen Marble’ digitally printed onto Forbo opportunity for carpet manufacturers to
Flooring Systems’ Flotex flocked floor covering, for his create fully recyclable needlepunch carpets,
new studio in Oxfordshire. Ashley Hicks is known for and benefit from production and resource
his intricate patterns and eclectic designs. He therefore savings, without influencing performance.
required his studio to have a neutral aesthetic to act as UltraBond is a patented polyolefin bonding
a suitable background for his projects; and wanted a staple fibre that eliminates the need for latex or other chemical binders
flooring that his own design could be printed on. Forbo’s Flotex is a to bind nonwovens. It opens up a new path for creating 100 per cent
completely unique product, which offers the hard-wearing durability polypropylene needlepunch carpets which meet the same performance
of a resilient floor covering, while delivering the comfort of a textile requirements as traditional latex-bonded carpets while reducing the
finish – all the while boasting exceptional printing abilities. end-of-life environmental impact.
01773 744 121 www.forbo-flooring.co.uk/artofflocking +32 56 66 81 91 www.beaulieufibres.com

116 INTERIORS
Polyflor launches new flooring collection Polyflor Sport 67 scores at new centre
Polyflor is delighted to announce the Polyflor’s Sport 67 in Maple was the flooring of
launch of the new Polysafe QuickLay PUR choice for GT3 Architects when completing the
Collection. Polysafe QuickLay is a new £7m Brinnington Park Leisure Complex in
loose lay safety flooring designed for Stockport. Facilities in the new centre include a
adhesive-free installation and is the gym, aerobics studio, community room, boxing
perfect solution for busy commercial gym and four court sports hall where a number
environments in need of a quick of Polyflor products were fitted including
turnaround and where sustainable slip resistance is a priority. Polysafe Polysafe Hydro, Polysafe Standard PUR, Polysafe Wood FX Acoustic
QuickLay is a temporary or permanent floor covering which achieves in Silver Oak and 690m2 of Sports 67 in Maple. Sports 67 in Maple
the same performance and durability as other Polysafe flooring is perfect for the classic gymnasium style and is designed to perform
collections but with the added benefits of adhesive-free installation. safely and effectively in ‘multi-purpose’ indoor sports venues.
0161 767 1111 www.polyflor.com 0161 767 1111 www.polyflor.com
Polyflor in first energy positive building Recommended supplier for Procure22

Designed by SPECIFIC, a UK innovation and Altro has been appointed as a recommended supplier
knowledge centre led by Swansea University, the of Wall & Door Protection by the PSCPs on the
Active Office will be the UK’s first energy Department of Health & Social Care’s ProCure22
positive building, generating more energy than it Framework for NHS and social care construction
uses over the course of a year. The office features schemes in England. Altro wall and door systems,
integrated solar cells in the curved roof, lithium including Altro Whiterock and Altro Fortis systems,
ion batteries to store electricity and a 2,000 litre water tank to store are recommended for use throughout healthcare environments. The
solar heat. Polyflor products chosen for the build included Polysafe ProCure22 (P22) process is designed to achieve improved value for
Hydro Evolve, Expona Flow PUR and Polysafe Arena. All the Expona money and reduce exposure to risk through a simplified capital
Flow PUR, Polysafe Arena PUR and Polysafe Hydro Evolve fitted on procurement procedure. Altro is the only walls manufacturer on the
site is 100 per cent recyclable and achieves a A+ BRE rating. P22 supplier list to have been awarded DSDC accreditation.
0161 767 1111 www.polyflor.com 01462 489 516 www.altro.co.uk
Forbo’s Marmoleum Marbled collection

Inspired by the breath-taking colours and textures
found within natural landscapes, Forbo Flooring
Systems has re-launched its Marmoleum Marbled
collection. With an independent Environmental
Product Declaration confirming carbon neutral
status in the production phase, Marmoleum
(2.5mm) helps to minimise the embodied carbon
of a building – with this latest collection designed to help users feel at
one with nature. Marmoleum is manufactured from 94-98 per cent
natural raw materials, making it one of the most sustainable floor
coverings available on the market.
01773 744 121 www.forbo-flooring.co.uk/marmoleummarbled
CTD Architectural Tiles for development

CTD Architectural Tiles is delighted to have
been selected to supply over 1,000m2 of product
to the new Fletton Quays development on the
south bank of the River Nene, Peterborough.
Contractors Bowmer and Kirkland and tiling
contractor P.Plunkett Tiling, CTD Architectural
Tiles Senior Sales Manager Sean Lane supplied 900 x 600mm of
Cliffstone Grey tiles in a matt finish for the floors, ideal for the heavy
traffic areas throughout the development. CTD Architectural Tiles
specialises in the supply of high quality ceramic tile finishes and tiling
solutions across all sectors in the UK commercial specification market.
0800 021 4835 www.ctdarchitecturaltiles.co.uk

118 INTERIORS
Colour your space

Boss Design has launched a striking colour
palette of painted frame options for its
extensive range of commercial furniture.
Offering endless design permutations, a
choice of eight colours may be applied to
the under frames, tables, legs, and arms of
most of Boss Design’s upholstered seating
and table collections. The eight RAL colours include orange, black,
white, purple, grey, green, blue and yellow. Designed to complement
chrome and natural wood frames, the new options follow meticulous
market research that has recently been conducted by the company.
www.bossdesign.com
Renderplas PVC shadow gap beads
Sleek minimalist shadow gaps create statement internal design
elements, producing clean lines unimpeded by the traditional use of
skirting boards, architraves and cornices. The features can be installed
Let sleeping dogs lie with Norbord
between walls, floors, skirting boards, windows, door frames and Norbord’s CaberFloor P5 – one of the
staircases throughout a building, or in specific areas such as hallways UK’s most specified chipboard flooring
and kitchens to create maximum impact. Specified by architects products, has been upgraded to produce
and used by house builders, Renderplas PVC shadow gaps are less a high performance floor with reduced
wasteful, safer and quicker to install than metal equivalents. The PVC impact and airborne noise transmission.
is UV stable ensuring that large amounts of light from modern glass Called CaberAcoustic, the new product
facades will not lead to discolouration. The profiles are durable and comprises 18mm or 22mm CaberFloor
impact resistant; important when featured at skirting level where floor P5 chipboard with a 10mm acoustic felt
cleaning equipment might be in contact with the profiles. Renderplas layer permanently bonded to the underside. CaberAcoustic is installed
supply two shadow gap profiles both of which are fully recyclable, with the tongue-and-groove joints glued with CaberFix D3 adhesive
a key feature for any low energy building solution. and all perimeters of the panel sealed with acoustic flanking strips.
01299 888333 www.renderplas.co.uk www.norbord.co.uk

120 INTERIORS; SAFETY & SECURITY
A world of possibilities with Vicaima doors

T
he eagerly anticipated 2019 edition of
the Vicaima Interior Door Selector
(IDS) has now arrived, with an
array of products designed to inspire
creative interiors for modern living.
Whether for homes, commercial environments,
health or educational establishments,
Vicaima offers original style coupled with
outstanding performance.
The 2019 IDS provides specifiers and
distributors with an easy to navigate, priced
guide through a myriad of styles and finishes
that demonstrate the sheer breadth of
possibilities available with Vicaima interior
doors and doorsets. All doors are available in
a variety of constructional cores, extensive
choice of dimensions and of course a colour
palette that allows real creative flair for new enough, the Vicaima 2019 Interior Effectively this creates thousands of
build and refurbishment projects. Whether the Door Selector goes one step further, offering a additional doors patterns, all available
vision calls for wood veneers displaying their wide assortment of additional modifications. with shorter lead times than conventional
natural specie or stained in a contemporary Vicaima customisation provides the bespoke doors.
tone, originally designed laminates and opportunity to select a door of choice from Call or download a copy of the 2019
innovative foils or even a spectrum of any of their Essential ex-stock solid core Interior Door Selector today by visiting the
paint lacquers; Vicaima has one of the most designs and to transform them with grooves, Vicaima website.
comprehensive selections available. inlays and glazing plus many other factory
As if 80 pages of door models were not servicing options. 01793 532333 www.vicaima.com
Bowater by Birtley launches fire door New additions to the Vecta Range
Bowater by Birtley has introduced an exclusive new Vecta from Monitor Audio is an architectural
FireShield FD30S fire door after successfully securing BS weather resistant range of speakers that offers
EN 1634 certification. The door is manufactured using incredible versatility and simple installation
a sustainable agrifiber core, a material recognised as a in places where other speaker choices would
green product that can contribute to Leadership in prove impractical. The new V240-LV speaker
Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) credits. A adds further versatility in commercial
solid timber frame and durable GRP facing completes the construction applications with 70/100V line level. An integrated transformer allows
of the door, making it one of only a handful on the market to offer a the system designer to consider multiple speakers in a system without
FD30S certified door to this standard. The Bowater FireShield FD30S worrying about impedance matching or losses where long cable runs
has been proven to maintain its integrity beyond the required minimum are required. This particularly benefits larger commercial applications,
30 minutes, preventing the passage of flames and hot gases. but can also be beneficial in larger, more complex domestic designs.
0845 121 8977 www.bowaterbybirtley.co.uk [email protected]
Securiscape helps New Street station Axim PR-7200 Series

Three planters designed to protect the public Emergency and Panic Exit Devices must provide
using Birmingham’s busy New Street station an easy method of escape for building occupants
have been installed outside the entrance after in the event of a fire or other emergencies, as
a leading supplier of security street furniture well as provide security against intrusion and
answered a call for help. Securiscape was burglary. The Axim PR 7200 Series provides solutions ensuring that,
able to supply and fit nine 1.42m2 high-tech whatever the project type, specifiers can rely on Axim PR 7200 Series
planter frames, each capable of stopping and disabling a 7.5 tonne to supply the solution. The Axim PR-7200 is a concealed, vertical rod
truck travelling at 40mph. The company got involved after a previous panic exit device which secures the top and bottom of the door, except
sub-contractor was unable to fulfil a brief to provide planters certified during the operating cycle when the rods are retracted with cylinder
to the exacting standards of PAS 68-2010, the latest publicly available key or when the touch bar is locked down with an Allen key (dogged).
specification for vehicle security barriers. The Axim PR-7200 Full Width Series is compliant to BS EN 1125.
[email protected] 0208 685 9685 www.axim.co.uk

122 SAFETY & SECURITY
Smart homes means

secure homes
Mark Carey of Salto Systems discusses how technology
is now laying the foundation for the creation of truly
smart homes when it comes to security
S
till thinking in terms of keys and locks hard wiring – and are already in
when it comes to security for your widespread use in commercial markets such
residential clients’ designs? Well, just as hotels, universities, airports, serviced
like the commercial sector where smartcard offices, etc.
technology is widely used and mobile is
now gaining traction, the home market too Technology over traditional
is now changing. For residential projects of a more
Everything from serviced apartments to commercial nature such as serviced
individual homes is now starting to adopt apartments and the like, more powerful
the convenience of using smart phones to cloud-based solutions are a common choice.
control access. This is a quick update to Cloud access control provides a simple and
equip architects with the knowledge they secure solution to manage keys, users and
need for incorporating mobile security into doors across multiple locations – typically
their projects. using a combination of smart phone app
Already there are smart meters to track and smart RFID tag.
energy usage, smart thermostats to control No software installation is required; all
heating systems, smart doorbells, and that’s needed is an online device with an
With smart security, the cameras for home security as well as smart Internet connection. An online account is
home assistance devices such as Amazon’s created and this is used to create access
technology is already here Alexa and Google’s Home Mini. Today, the groups, manage users and view entries to
to deliver tomorrow’s smart ‘smart, connected home’ is the exception. In the property from a smart phone, tablet or
a decade or less it will be the norm. other device.
home today Residential smart lock technology allows A hub unit fitted inside the building uses
the user to go above and beyond what a 2G, 3G or 4Gcellular connectivity to
standard door lock can offer. The smart communicate with the wireless lock
lock provides multiple features accessed equipped doors. Users simply present their
through an app on a smart phone, giving a RFID tag to the lock, which instantly
greater picture of home security. engages so residents, visitors etc can enter
Undoubtedly a driver for this is that more easily and according to their access rights.
people now want everything to be accessed
through their personal device. The individual home
With a smart home lock there is no need For the domestic home there are a number
to carry keys, which eliminates the chance of options on the market, and most make
of them being lost or stolen, and it also use of the smart phone to take the place of
allows users to cancel keys on the go if the key.
they need to restrict access. And because Some take the form of a traditional
such technology works with most existing handle set and have a prominent reader
euro cylinders or multipoint locks unit at the top. Users can configure, control
(depending on different manufacturers’ and unlock their smart door lock from their
models), it still complies with current home smart phone via a secure Bluetooth app.
insurance standards. They can give family and friends access by
Such locks are battery operated and wire sending a virtual key to their smart phone
free, wireless, cloud or mobile based – so no and keep track of who comes and goes via
need for the expense and inconvenience of the app.

SAFETY & SECURITY 123
Another variation is to have a smart

motorised lock. The advantage of this is
that the door looks just like a normal door
with a standard-looking handle and
keyhole; there is no impression from the
outside that the door is ‘smart.’ The
electronic unit is housed on the inside of the
door and again works with a smart phone
app. But the beauty of this product is that it
also has an auto unlock feature.
With auto unlock activated, coming
home is as easy as it gets. Automatic GEO
location detection determines your position
when you enter the auto unlock zone,
approx 500-1000 m from the door, and
when you get in Bluetooth range approx
0-5 m, it unlocks your door for you. Not
only that, but with automatic timed locking
it can do exactly the same thing in reverse
and automatically lock the door when you
leave the house.
As with most things the key to success
lies in selecting the right product for the
project. But with smart security, the
technology is already here to deliver
tomorrow’s smart home today.
Keith Carey is marketing manager at

Salto Systems
Von Duprin show the way

Relcross have employed their problem solving experience by
supplying Von Duprin 99QEL exit devices to Advanced Diesel
Engineering (ADE) of Yorkshire. ADE are experts in acoustic
containers for generators and their products can be found in a number
of data centres throughout Europe. Normal entry and exit is
controlled by a swipe card system that disengages the door alarms
while recording the details of who has entered or exited the container.
A key operated lock can then be used to open the door by releasing
the latch on the Von Duprin device installed on the inner surface of
the door. The Von Duprin 99 QEL features motorised latches rather
than magnetic solenoids which, together with the famous Von Duprin
fluid dampener that decelerates the touch bar on its return stroke,
eliminates most of the noise associated with exit device operations.
In the event of an emergency the touch bar can be used independently
and without any delay. The touch bar is covered with a luminous
material to provide guidance to people trying to escape.
01380 729600 www.relcross.co.uk

124 LANDSCAPING & EXTERNAL WORKS
Latest news, views and more Safe and Sound with Resiblock
If you like to be kept informed of all Part of Network Rails £6bn Thameslink
the latest news, views, and promotions Programme, the redevelopment of London
for the architectural community, the Bridge Station started in 2013. With new paving
ADF email newsletters can offer you installed it was anticipated that cleaning regimes
regular updates straight to your inbox. would serve to remove the jointing sand leading
The weekly Editor’s Choice newsletter to de-stabilisation of the paving and causing
includes top news stories curated by hazards such as tripping accidents. The success of Resiblock Resiecco
the ADF editorial team, while the at The O2 Arena, where similar problems occured, played a key role
monthly CPD Focus and fortnightly ADF Newsletter offer updates in the selection process. Resiblock Technicians attended and advised
on products, services, events, and learning opportunities available on application and spread rate of Resiblock Resiecco and the one coat
from a wide variety of manufacturers and suppliers. application allowed the station to remain open during installation.
www.subscribepage.com/adf [email protected]
Maximising Land Value through SuDS DIY resin bound driveways made simple
GreenBlue Urban are extremely conscious of the SUDwell™ the Resin Bonded Slab Company
tight constraints that house builders work under and were one of the first to offer resin bound
have designed a modular storm water management surfacing solutions in the UK, and have
system that is installed below mandatory hard unrivalled experience in the industry. Now
surfaces. GreenBlue Urban Arborflow systems are SUDwell™ are using their vast experience to
uniquely placed to enable all of these criteria to be met without offer Resin Bound DIY kits to both home and
encroaching on valuable land, maintaining the amenity values, holding trade customers. Their DIY Resin Bound Gravel
up property values and creating a pleasant place to live work and play. is easy to install with online video assistance. SUDwell™ All-Weather
By specifying GreenBlue Urban ArborFlow systems, a long-term Resin offers user a high strength resin that is UV Stable, and moisture
solution is available to make every development sustainable for the long tolerant. In addition to this, their All-Weather resin has a double the
term resident, and profitable for the developer. working time of other resins, making it ideal for the inexperienced.
[email protected] 01424 830 494 www.theresinbondedslabcompany.co.uk
We design and manufacture Shade and Weatherproof Sails in

commercial and domestic environments. Our forte is engineering
solutions that not only look good but will also stand the test of
time in unpredictable outdoor environments.
All our Shade Sails are individually designed with colour, shape
and size to suit your particular requirements. Architecturally stunning.
We use either Stainless Steel or Timber posts depending upon the
environment. Our Shade Sails are easily fitted and removed. A full
design, installation and maintenance services is available.
For more details please call 01603 782223,

email [email protected] or visit www.jeckells-shade-sails.co.uk

LANDSCAPING & EXTERNAL WORKS 125

LANDSCAPING & EXTERNAL WORKS 127
Expand your mind

Adrian Walker of Sundolitt discusses why specifiers should consider expanded
polystyrene as a versatile as well as sustainable material for landscaping applications
W
eighing only 1 per cent of the
weight of traditional fill,
expanded polystyrene (EPS) is
continuing to prove itself as a modern
and innovative civil engineering and
construction material for landscaping
projects as well as road construction,
embankments, ‘noise bund’ and retaining
wall applications. This versatile material’s
popularity has grown due to the increased
drive to find more sustainable fill options
for landscaping while also taking into
consideration the varied and unstable
ground common throughout the UK.
EPS is 98 per cent air, accounting for its
light weight, but is also extremely strong
under compression, with the manufacturing
process having a significant impact on its
inherent characteristics. Raw beads are
firstly heated with steam causing them to
expand. Following storage for maturation,
the beads are then fed into a block mould
with more steam, causing the bead to
expand further and fuse together, forming
the rigid block.
EPS does not add any significant weight underground carpark. The landscaping
to the existing ground, even if there is extra requirements for this project were quite
load from any structure above. One exact and stringent in that the architects
hundred times less dense than traditional required creating a contoured area of grass
materials, due to its closed cell formation, and trees for an area between the new-build
EPS reduces settlement caused by soil section and the existing Infirmary buildings.
compaction, also meaning that it can be This area was on top of the underground
used on weaker sub-soil structures than car park and traditional fill would have
traditional material. This high strength-to- been too heavy to create the mounds and
weight ratio of EPS and its lightweight amount of contouring required.
nature makes it ideal for both hard and EPS can be used in urban environments
soft landscaping, ensuring that pressures where hard landscaping may be required
are reduced on underlying structures over structures or service tunnels. Different
and services. grades can be combined to create the
Manufactured in a wide range of densities most economic design for the individual
from 15 kg/m3 up to 43 kg/m3 and a range specification, with the knowledge that
of compressive strengths from 70 kPa to minimal load will be transferred to the
350 kPa, the versatility of EPS ensures the structure below, yet with the assurance of a
material’s suitability for a wide range of firm foundation that will accept any hard
landscaping specifications and applications, landscaping finish.
according to client requirements. EPS can also be used in conjunction with
A great example of soft landscaping was green roof applications, where the EPS is
at the prestigious Quarter Mile development not providing the thermal insulation but is
in central Edinburgh, where EPS was allowing for landscaping on the roof
used to avoid the transfer of load onto an structure, without severe loading

128 LANDSCAPING & EXTERNAL WORKS
implications of traditional fill materials. individual applications, EPS has proven its
This could be ideal for a structure where use as an innovative and ideal landscaping
the roof needs to blend in with the material for several years. Manufacturers
surrounding countryside. work with architects and landscape
Due to the lightweight nature of EPS, designers to ensure the correct grade of EPS
significantly more blocks can be transported is used with layer by layer drawings
compared to traditional fill material, provided to detail contouring and build-up.
ensuring lower carbon emissions and less The material’s versatility is undeniable,
pollution due to the reduced number of and the environmental qualities of EPS
loads. Approximately 80 m3 of EPS blocks make it a sustainable choice. The ability of
can be loaded onto one single vehicle EPS to create stable ground conditions
compared to only 16 m3 of traditional over an extensive timeframe will decrease
landfill, reducing the need for excessive the need for potentially costly remedial
transportation. EPS does not require works caused by settlement, resulting
heaving lifting equipment on site and is in a more stable fill material, but with
The ability of EPS to create easy to handle and cut; safety measures such none of the associated issues experienced
as protective clothing, masks or goggles are with alternatives.
stable ground conditions not required. Extruded polystyrene (XPS) can also be
over an extensive EPS will maintain its performance used as a fill material, and has recently been
characteristics over its expected life cycle, used at the major redevelopment of
timeframe will decrease with this longevity increased due to its Battersea Power Station. Installed to provide
the need for potentially durable nature and immunity to insect, temporary parking for delivery trucks
bacterial and fungal attack. It is rot proof supplying this huge scheme, XPS was
costly remedial works making it ideal for direct contact with specified for the project due its load-bearing
caused by settlement earth and it does not require indoor
storage, nor will it become friable
characteristics yet lightweight nature
ensuring undue stress would not be
(crumblable) or saturated. transferred to the existing slab.
Manufactured in a range of compressive
strengths and sizes designed specifically for Adrian Walker is sales manager at Sundolitt
MACS AUTOMATED
BOLLARD SYSTEMS
Macs Automated Bollard Systems Ltd specialise in the nationwide supply of
security bollards and vehicle restriction solutions. Commonly used to help to
secure private driveways and prevent unauthorised use of private parking
spaces, telescopic security bollards serve as both a visual deterrent, helping
to prevent attempted theft of vehicles and property, and offer a physical
security barrier between the road and the protected area. With customer
satisfaction our number one goal, our team will thoroughly discuss and
assess your specific needs, and work to deliver a solution to fit.
For more information on any of our services, please

visit www.macs-bollards.com, or to talk to
one of our advisors call 0161 3206462

The world leader in timber preservation

preservation technology
Protim Celcure
Aquatan FirePro
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DELIVERING HIGH
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SOLUTIONS FOR
DECADES
FOR MORE INFORM

INFORMATION
ATION
TIO
VVisit: www.kopperspc.eu
isit: ww w.kopperspc.eu Email: [email protected] Call: +44 (0)1628 486644 Fax: +44 (0)1628 476757
PProtim
rotim Solignum Limited, Fieldhouse Lane Marlow,
Marlow, Buckinghamshire SL7 1LS
Protim Solignum Limited trading as Koppers Performance Chemicals. Koppers is a registered TTrademark
rademark of Koppers Delaware, Inc. Whilst every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy
by
by Appointment
Appointment to to
and reliability of the information contained in this document, Protim Solignum Limited gives no undertaking to that ef fect and no responsibility can be accepted for reliance on this information.
effect Her MMajesty
ajesty The Queen
The Q ueen
Information will be updated when the need arises. Please ensure you have an up to date copy
copy.. All products are produced by independently owned and operated wood processing facilities. All other Manufacturers
Manufacturers Of Wood
Of W ood Preservatives
Preservatives
PProtim
rotim SSolignum
olignum LLtd
td
trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners. Koppers Performance Chemicals, Protim Solignum Limited, Fieldhouse Lane, Marlow,
Marlow, Buckinghamshire, SL7 1LS. Visit:
Visit: www.kopperspc.eu,
www.kopperspc.eu, Marlow, Buckinghamshire
Marlow,, Buck inghamshire
Email: [email protected], Call: +44 (0)1628 486644, Fax: +44 (0)1628 476757. Registered in England 3037845. © Copyright 2018.
131
CLASSIFIED & DIRECTORY

CLADDING & FACADES GLASS & GLAZING R&D TAX CREDITS/PATENT BOX SAP & SDEM CALCULATIONS
Kingspan Facades Structural Glass Design Ltd MCS Corporate Strategies Ltd EAL Consult
Tel: 01352 716100 Tel: 0333 577 7177 Tel: 01926 512475
www.kingspan.com/gb/ www.structural-glass.com 17 Dobree Ave, London
www.mcs-corporate.com
en-gb/products/architectural- NW10 2AD
facade-systems GREEN ROOFS RADIATION SHIELDING Tel: 0208 930 5660
Optigreen Ltd
Midland Lead [email protected]
COATINGS & FINISHES Tel: 0845 565 0236
Tel: 01283 224 555
Owatrol Coatings UK www.optigreen.co.uk www.ealconsult.com
www.midlandlead.co.uk
Tel: 01582 592707
EAL Consult specialise in Building
www.owatroldirect.co.uk INSULATION
Recticel Insulation Products ROOFGLAZING & ROOFLIGHTS Regulations Part L compliance,
CONCRETE Tel: 0800 085 4079 Whitesales
SAP, SBEM, Thermal Bridging,
Milbank Concrete Products www.recticelinsulation.com Tel: 01483 271371
BREEAM and Energy and
Tel: 01787 223931 www.whitesales.co.uk
www.milbank.co.uk LANDSCAPING & EXTERNAL Sustainability reports for
WORKS ROOFING obtaining planning permission,
DOORS & WINDOWS Wykeham Mature Plants Kemper System
Garador Ltd Tel: 01723 862406 CPD training
Tel: 01925 445532
Tel: 01935 443 722 www.wykehammatureplants.co.uk www.kemper-system.com/UK/eng
www.garador.co.uk
WINDOW CONTROLS
PRECAST CONCRETE
Midland Lead
GLASS & GLAZING British Precast
Tel: 01283 224 555
Lamilux UK Tel: 0116 232 5170
Tel: 01284 749051 www.britishprecast.org www.midlandlead.co.uk
www.lamilux.co.uk
PUMPING STATIONS STREET FURNITURE
Senior Architectural Systems Ltd J T Pumps Contenur UK Ltd
Tel: 01709 772600 Tel: 0844 414 5800 Tel: 01282 604400
www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk www.jtpumps.co.uk www.contenur.com
WEBSITE NEWSLETTER DIGITAL ISSUE

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of past and present products and news is designed to provide you with the same content as the print issue with
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one-stop source for all the latest press snapshot of information from up to have access to the internet. In addition
releases providing any visitor with 12 carefully selected companies and to its ease of access, the ADF digital
access to information about products easily follow links through to further issue gives direct links to advertisers,
and services that they may require for information on the website or go allowing you to visit a potential
their project as well as news relevant directly to the company’s website. Go supplier’s website with the click of a
architectsdatafile.co.uk to architectural developments. to the ADF website to subscribe. mouse. Subscribe on the ADF website.
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ADF_02_2019 Cover_Layout 1 05/02/2019 16:52 Page 1

COAL DROPS YARD, KINGS CROSS, LONDON

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