Casestudies
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By Talk. Build Many building managers are now adhering to certain principles – including keeping Rh at optimum levels – to prevent bacterial spread. Smart sensors installed as part of a building management system (BMS) are designed to consistently monitor indoor spaces, assuring they are the optimum environments for people’s health, wellbeing and safety. Sensors are a form of dialogue that represent real-time building performance. If they detect any untoward changes to the environment, they quickly react to return it where it should be. Sensors’ ability to closely monitor room humidity – which if too low or high can contribute to bacteria growth – was a requirement for Dammam Medical Tower, a large hospital in Saudi Arabia. An effective control strategy was created to combat detrimental changes in air humidity within the Dammam Medical Tower’s isolation rooms. A space mounted relative humidity and temperature (RH&T) sensor was supplied, which uses the latest high-accuracy technology to improve and maintain a healthy indoor environment. Smart and self-managing sensors are the best method to assure infection control. These small yet mighty devices mean all indoor environments are of the highest quality, keeping us humans safe and healthy in the process.979 views Apr 15, 2021 -
By Talk. Build Situated in the southern gateway to the Lake District, Stonecross Meadows is a stylish development of three, four and five-bedroom semi-detached and detached homes. In order to achieve the desired aesthetics, developer Jones Homes required a weatherproof render which offered ease of application and would successfully complement the homes’ natural stone façade. This led to the specification of Parex Monorex GM, a one-coat weather resistant and breathable render, for the various house elevations. Jones Homes specified Parex Monorex GM in Pale Yellow and Smokey Grey for the homes, garages and surrounding walls of the development. Parex Monorex GM was sprayapplied to the concrete blockwork and to provide additional reinforcement and crack resistance at stress locations around openings, Parex TV10 Mesh was embedded into the render during the application process. More than 5000m2 render was applied by Parex registered applicator North West Render Ltd who said: “We recommended the use of Parex Monorex GM for this development due to the product’s ease of application and superior finish having used it on previous projects. Once again, the spray-applied application ensured a consistent, high quality finish”. Furthermore, Parex’s quick response with samples and a full system specification also helped secure the project with Jones Homes, one of the UK’s leading home builders. Monorex GM is suitable for machine spraying or hand application and can be finished in a range of styles from medium scraped, light tyrolean to heavy roughcast textured finishes. Client: Jones Homes Main Contractor: North West Render Ltd PAREX PRODUCTS USED: Parex Monorex GM, Parex TV10 Mesh1,256 views Apr 13, 2021
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By Talk. Build Bernat Klein House in High Sunderland, Selkirk, set in three acres of glorious Scottish countryside, is a triumphant example of mid-20th century architectural enterprise. Built in 1957 and designed by renowned modernist architect Peter Womersley, the open plan, single-storey property offers a stylish lesson in how to introduce an expansive feel to a house with a relatively small floor area. The rectangular-shaped building, originally commissioned by Serbian textile designer Bernat Klein, is essentially subdivided into 8ft modules. The continuous, walk-through design includes four bedrooms, a kitchen, a living room and a dining area. Such is the exceptional nature of the property's architecture it has Category A listing – the highest grade of listing given by Historic Environment Scotland. For the house's 133m2 roof refurbishment Gradient, in conjunction with contractors Laurence McIntosh, was selected to design a tapered insulation scheme that was as rapid to install, as it was efficient in preventing unwanted ponding on the flat roof. It led to the specification of Eurothane Eurodeck - Gradient's premium, high performing rigid PIR insulation board. Ideal for use under mechanically-fixed, single-ply membranes across new-build and refurbishment projects, Eurothane Eurodeck's high compressive strength is complemented by its low thermal conductivity (0.022 W/mK). With this exceptional PIR solution, dimensional stability and a super-smooth surface are guaranteed. Further, the system was made-to-measure and therefore eliminated on-site cutting, which significantly reduced on-site labour times and material waste. Gordon Dickson, Contracts Director at Laurence McIntosh, said: “Due to the high-profile nature of this project, we required a quality insulation that offered excellent performance in terms of thermal conductivity and ease of installation. Thanks to the conjunctive efforts of Gradient's technical team in designing a bespoke tapered solution, the made-to-measure system ensured it met the client’s brief and incurred minimal material waste. This added to the project's cost-effectiveness, whilst enhancing its environmental credentials.” The roof was finished with a single-ply membrane and thanks to the combined expertise that led to the specification, design and installation of Gradient's Eurothane Eurodeck tapered insulation, this historic Scottish house will remain an astonishing architectural feature of Selkirk’s wild and wonderful countryside for many years to come.1,156 views Mar 30, 2021
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By Talk. Build The Courtyard Centre for the Arts in Herefordshire is one of the county’s landmark social and cultural hubs. Featuring a 400-seat main theatre, a 120-seat studio theatre, rehearsal rooms, gallery, meeting spaces and an award-winning cafe bar, the complex hosts a variety of community-based entertainment from pantos and youth theatre, to film and visual arts shows. As part of a £1.5m redesign, the Courtyard Centre was extended to include a shop selling locally-produced arts and crafts and a new multi-purpose meeting room. A Capital Grant on behalf of Arts Council England funded the refurbishment, which also included a reconfiguration of the front of house area to provide improved box accessibility, and an extension to its café bar area and first-floor dining space to create an outside terrace. For the café bar area, the client required cut-to-falls insulation as part of the flat roof’s waterproofing system. However, as the waterproofing abutted a glass façade, the challenge was to forward an insulation solution that optimised the adjoining building’s windowed element in terms of the amount of light it allowed, whilst ensuring the roof itself achieved the regulatory U-value. As the 90m2 roof was without a sufficient upstand, the insulation’s profile needed to be kept to a minimum to avoid compromising the windows’ threshold. Working in close conjunction with ICB Waterproofing, Gradient specified a build-up comprising Deck-VQ®, an ultra-thin vacuuminsulation panel (VIP) and 45mm-thick Powerdeck® F PIR boards, which provided the system’s super-flat, thermally-efficient finish. The combination of the two solutions, which are renowned for a performance that belies their slender composition, solved the challenge of achieving the required 0.18 W/m2KU-value performance with a minimal roof build-up. Of particular value when used in built-up felt and single-ply membrane waterproofing systems, Powerdeck® F boards offer high-compressive strength and excellent thermal performance (λ = 0.024 - 0.026 W/mK). This ensures a supremely flat surface finish required for optimum performance in a range of watertight systems in new-build and refurbishment projects. With Deck-VQ®, which is a VIP in a fully-encapsulated PIR protective shell, housebuilders and homeowners can install quality insulation in limited-space areas that are out-of-bounds to other products. Therefore, it offers a reliable, cost-effective method of adding real value to a property. Its superior thermal credentials – it has a lambda value of the core of 0.006 W/mK – comes to the fore in enabling even the most complex flat roof and terrace projects to be carried out without the need for structural changes. This results in reduced on-site working times, materials and a more sustainable build. Steve Evans, Director at S & P Roofing, the company which installed the extension’s waterproof roof, said: “The insulation build-up needed to be minimalised to remain below the adjoining windows’ threshold, but thermally-effective enough to meet regulation U-values. Powerdeck® F boards, in conjunction with the Deck-VQ® system, were absolutely ideal for the task. Its super-slim structure provided the perfect finish for the waterproof system. With its excellent high compressive strength, Powerdeck® F boards are built to withstand long-term wear and tear caused by exposure to severe weather and a high volume of foot traffic. It’s a fantastically-effective product, which is also extremely easy to work with.” Thanks to the Powerdeck®F boards’ superb strength and thermal performance, along with Deck-VQ®’s significant contribution, the Courtyard Centre’s impressive new extension has a smart waterproof system to match; one which meets regulatory U-value performance and is long-term protected against the elements and issues such as cold bridging, which could lead to damp and future costly repairs.586 views Mar 19, 2021
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By Talk. Build The 20 storey building will provide the “gateway” to Canary Wharf’s new district, Wood Wharf. It has achieved planning consent and will provide 17 floors of high quality volumetric modular serviced apartments over a retail/amenity space in the lower podium levels. Two full-height concrete cores will provide structural stability and the scheme will be crowned with a rooftop restaurant providing a unique dining experience with prime views over London City. An open and collaborative approach between Canary Wharf Group, edyn, Caledonian and design partners HTA and Holloway Li has resulted in the development of a high-quality precision manufactured design solution that maximises levels of offsite completion and significantly reduces onsite resource and programme. The steel framed modules are being designed and manufactured at Caledonian’s 40 acre manufacturing facility in Newark, Nottinghamshire, where Caledonian’s offsite solution enables each room to be completed to a very high standard including fitting of furniture, bathrooms, kitchens and en-suite facilities prior to transport. This is the latest significant success for Caledonian that underpins continued growth plans and investment in the business and contributes to current secured pipeline in excess of £200m. Caledonian continues to invest in new systems and technologies to advance precision manufactured techniques and processes, producing products that are over 90% factory complete and actively advancing our design principles towards a Net Zero Carbon future.567 views Mar 11, 2021
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By Talk. Build Designed by BDP Architects, the hospital, which opened four months ahead of schedule in November 2020, was built as part of the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board’s Clinical Futures Strategy and houses the region’s accident and emergency and intensive care facilities. Developed by main contractor Laing O’Rourke using an extensive adoption of off-site construction, the £350m specialist and critical care centre includes purpose-built facilities for critically ill patients who require the most urgent treatment and care pathways. As well as utilising offsite construction to deliver shorter build schedules and more environmentally friendly methods of construction, Laing O’Rourke and BDP’s design team used BIM from the outset of the development to maximise the use of digital technology through the supply chain. Utilising the company’s own Level 2 BIM models and working closely with the designers to ensure strict timescales were met, Proteus Facades manufactured bespoke Proteus HR rainscreen panels and fins with a TECU Iron Two finish for the hospital entrance and restaurant exterior. Installed by Cladanco, the copper cladding is fixed off a Eurobond Rockfibre Rainspan composite panel. TECU Iron Two has a striking reddish-brown copper surface finish that portrays a weathered steel aesthetic, but with all the longevity and formability of copper. The colours of the natural material blend gradually over time to create the beautiful, aged copper-look. Made from 100% recycled copper, Proteus TECU Iron Two is a sustainable choice. Proteus HR was specified because the system is lightweight, strong and versatile whilst offering high aesthetic appeal. The integrated modular rainscreen panels also feature an aluminium honeycomb core, structurally bonded between two thin gauges of lightweight metal skin, to create an optically flat panel. The Proteus HR panels at Grange University Hospital feature in a pod-like design on the exterior of the main entrance and within the foyer; taking the architect’s design from the outside in and creating a visual point of interest for visitors as they enter and exit the building. Adding further aesthetic appeal, the deep red-brown ochre finish of the copper cladding creates a warming pop of natural colour against the monochrome grey and white modular panels that adorn most of the hospital’s exterior. Bespoke spanning fins manufactured by Proteus Facades measuring 400mm x 80mm were utilised across the entrance and along the external façade of the hospital restaurant. Each fin had an internal support of a 300mm x 50mm x 5mm aluminium extrusion PPC coated with bespoke head and base plate connections for bolting into the primary brackets within the structural openings. The aluminium extrusions were then clad with TECU Patina Iron Two panels to provide the overall finish. Proteus Facades also fabricated cantilevering head and base cloaking panels and bespoke brackets for use on the entrance and within the foyer to create the illusion that the pods emerge from the wall in a box-like structure. Grange University Hospital (previously known as the Specialist and Critical Care Centre) is the centrepiece of a new model of healthcare delivery serving over 600,000 people. The 471-bed hospital is home to more than 40 specialist services and features a helicopter pad for patients who need to arrive by air ambulance. The building also takes advantage of the landscaped setting, offering views across the surrounding countryside and access to therapeutic spaces to promote healing and wellness. It is this design-led and collaborative approach to construction that has resulted in the development securing two Constructing Excellence Wales Awards for Best Digital Construction and Off-Site Development.526 views Mar 11, 2021
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By Talk. Build The Proteus SC cladding panels are arranged in a striking half-hexagon design that appears to float outward from the main structure. The 6 metrehigh façade, where the panels themselves are embellished by intricately designed, leaf-shaped perforations, has the ability to stop people in their tracks while they gaze at the intriguing, shimmering aesthetic. Prior to the refurbishment, the original building, which once stood proud on the corner of Queens Square fell into disrepair after being left unattended by its previous owner for quite some time. In 2019 however, as part of an ongoing initiative to acquire, regenerate and re-let vacant shops to independent businesses, Wycombe District Council purchased the building and invested in a state-of-the-art refurbishment project. This included a complete redesign of the interior and an external upgrade to improve aesthetics and add more versatility to the town centre. During the initial stages of the redevelopment, main contractors, Abbeymead Building Ltd. found that the glazing to the upper levels would need replacing, along with limited structural support positions where the perforated cladding could connect. This resulted in a complete redesign of this section, with full replacement of the windows and the spanning solution of the Proteus SC, lightweight perforated anodised aluminium panels, manufactured by Proteus Facades. Proteus SC is an engineered panel system that is offered in either solid, perforated or mesh panel formats. By utilising an extensive range of metals, colours, textures and forms it can add another dimension to any façade cladding project. The system can be manufactured between 1mm and 5mm in thickness and an acoustic insulation layer encapsulated within the panel. Installed by J & PW Developments Ltd,the Proteus SC panels at White Hart Street, were fabricated from a 3mm J57Up aluminium alloy with a brush polished, mirror effect finish, anodised to Anolok 543. The bespoke laser-cut leaf pattern on the panels, visible both inside and out, also provides further visual appeal to the façade, offering a delicately designed brise soleil within and a striking external aesthetic for passers-by. Each Proteus SC panel is secured in place using a bespoke aluminium support system, also manufactured by Proteus Facades, with a matching anodised coating. The brackets are fixed back to the original structure with a 200mm x 50mm aluminium extrusion at panel joints, spanning approximately 3700mm between the floor and slabs, and with 1100mm cantilevered upper and lower sections. Further external works carried out during the redevelopment, completed in December 2020, include replacement of the flat roof and installation of a new shopfront set back from the pavement to create a covered seating area. Internally, the building has been completely restructured to offer a ground floor space ideal for use as a restaurant and shops, along with first floor studio-style offices. All of which have great potential to attract some of High Wycombe’s up and coming businesses, which in turn is expected to boost footfall and improve the overall experience for visitors to the town. Visit: www.proteusfacades.com582 views Feb 09, 2021
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By Talk. Build The furniture, manufactured by Sedus Stoll AG, one of the leading European manufacturers of office furniture, includes seating and desking specially designed for the Home Working environment.“We offer a full logistics and delivery service for Sedus,” said Scott Dunn, CEO of Chaucer Logistics. “This includes storing and consolidating orders at our warehouse before they are delivered to major customers and private individuals across the UK.”“We have handled some 16,000 residential deliveries on behalf of this client which shows the growing demand for office furniture for people working from home as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.”In its 150-year company history, Chaucer’s client Sedus has been continuously setting new standards, in terms of ergonomics, manufacturing processes and sustainability. The brand is synonymous with innovation and technology, quality and aesthetics meaning that demand for its products will continue to remain strong in the UK. www.chaucerlogistics.com655 views Jan 29, 2021
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By Talk. Build The project involved waterproofing a 2,000m2 area spanning nine roofs at Kingston University in Surrey. The mix of green, single-ply and hot-melt finishes covered the new building. With facilities including a learning resources centre, courtyard and cafés, it’s hoped the new ‘Town House’ building will transform students’ learning experience. Having been selected as the project’s waterproofing specialists by main contractor Willmott Dixon, BriggsAmasco worked alongside award-winning and Stirling Prize-nominated design team, Graton Architects. The multiplex flat-roof installation began in March 2018. It involved BriggsAmasco applying a range of waterproofing systems across differing heights and levels. These included an IKO hot-melt waterproofing membrane within a system comprising XPS rigid foam insulation, as well as paving and ballast finishes to the main roof areas. A built-up, reinforced felt waterproofing solution with tapered insulation was also installed to a green roof in order to conform with a height restriction. Additionally, IKO Armourplan PSG single-ply waterproofing, along with PIR insulation, was affixed to colonnade areas of the roof. The new building’s main road location next to the university presented an additional challenge to Briggs’ on-site team. The area was in constant use by students, therefore in order to minimise disruption material delivery times had to be scheduled to coincide with the start of each roofing phase. It left little room for delay for Briggs’ installers if the operation was run to smoothly. Fortunately, their experience and diligence ensured this and other challenges were overcome. It meant this huge, highly-complex project was completed in September 2019 in line with the client’s deadline. Kingston University Town House provides further evidence of BriggsAmasco’s ability to rise to the occasion – no matter how challenging the roofing project.1,333 views Dec 04, 2019
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By Talk. Build The Melody Gardens and Corporation Road projects were designed to increase the number of available affordable homes in Salford. Watson Homes carried out the work on both developments, which were built on behalf of Places for People and ForHousing. For Melody Gardens it involved the building of a four-storey block comprising 48 apartments; nine two-storey houses, and a bungalow. The properties were being built on a 0.4-hectare site once occupied by a Catholic church. Due to the superb reputation of its products and service, Recticel was selected to supply the development’s cavity wall and ground floor insulation. As part of Recticel’s quality PIR range, Eurothane GP, a low-thermal conductivity panel, provided Melody Gardens’ ground floor insulation. With a low-thermal conductivity of 0.022W/mK, the Eurothane GP panel’s dimensional stability and super-flat surface help create homes which excel in terms of comfort and wellbeing. Such a solution is crucial for multiple-occupancy buildings where the risk of damp and increased noise levels is greater than single occupancies. For the buildings’ walls, Eurowall Cavity was installed. The closed-cell, rigid polyisocyanurate foam board helps regulate temperature to create a warm and even interior climate. The use of a residual 50mm clear cavity means Eurowall Cavity may be used in any exposure zone. It’s estimated the Melody Gardens building project will be completed in November 2019. Eurothane GP and Eurowall Cavity were also used as respective floor and wall insulation for the Corporation Gardens project. A total of 2,525m2 of insulation was installed during the development carried out by Watson Homes. It comprises 18, one-bed and 15, two-bed apartments. The easy usability of both products proved essential in ensuring contractors were able to meet the client’s strict deadline and complete building works to the highest specification in May 2018. Mike Watson, Construction Director at Watson Homes, said: “Recticel’s high-quality products were essential to ensuring the fabric of both developments was fitted with insulation that will fulfil the occupants’ long-term domestic needs. In terms of installation, the panels’ easy-fit properties made quicker, lighter work of a potentially challenging project.” The durability and thermal performance facilitated by Eurothane GP and Eurowall Cavity panels will help create damp-free and moisture-free interiors at Melody Gardens and Corporation Road. It will result in these developments becoming a welcome and much-valued addition to Salford’s social housing portfolio. Visit: www.recticelinsulation.co.uk1,501 views Aug 05, 2019
