Architects Choice

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THE UK’S LEADING MAGAZINE FOR ARCHITECTURAL PRODUCTS, TECHNOLOGY AND TRENDSTHE UK’S LEADING MAGAZINE FOR ARCHITECTURAL PRODUCTS, TECHNOLOGY AND TRENDS

£3.75 DECEMBER 2009

ArchitectsChoice

NEW YEAR OUR PANELISTS LOOK AHEAD

TO 2010 AND MAKE THEIR ARCHITECTUAL RESOLUTIONS

TOP ARCHITECTURE NEWSINCLUDING AWARD-WINNERS AND PROJECT PLANNERS

LIGHTING AT THE HEART OF ARCHITECTURE

THE PATH IS CLEARSignbox lead us down the road of

wayfinding in the education sector

PREDICTIONS

CONTRACTS & PROJECTSBATHROOMS

INDUSTRY NEWS

Architects Choice 3

18 FEATURESignbox discusses effective signage in educational spaces.

20 BATHROOMSFeaturing the best designs

22 LUXURY WITH A CONSCIENCE

24 HOME GROWN INNOVATIONSTalent from the West Midlands

25 PRODUCT NEWS

34 LAST WORDBy Tim Lobb, TPL Architects

35WEB GUIDEAn architectural guide to the world wide web

THIS MONTH 4An architecture news update - all the latest devel-

opments by some of our most respected designers

INDUSTRY NEWS 8All the goings on in the industry

QUESTION TIME 12

CONTRACTS AND PROJECTS 15Commercial projects with planning permission

Welcome to the last issue of theyear. 2009 has flown by and peopleare already looking forward into theNew Year and wondering what2010 will bring. I myself have someideas looming on the horizon, sowatch out for next years issues as

we will be challenging more Architects for their val-ued opinions in Question Time and exploring thelatest projects rising up from the foundations. ForDecember, we asked our panel of four professionalsto discuss what may be in store for 2010 and whattheir own Architectural New Year resolutions mightbe. Dickon Hayward, Phil Richards, Jack Pringle andConrad Smith are all on hand to give their valuedopinions and predictions.

Across our news pages we focus on contractsand projects in the industry, specialist bathroom

products and news from architects across theboard. We have White Rose awards, SustainableHousing awards and Architect of the Year awards,with the winners from all, showing their tri-umphant projects as well as some dates in ourdiary section to take us well into the New Year.

Signbox feature this issue with the recent com-pletion of the Into University of East Anglia project.Signbox were tasked by creative agency Into, tocreate dynamic and creative signage and lay aclever wayfinding solution for the UniversitiesInternational students. The finished effects show acolourful and modern take on sign directionthroughout the International Centre.

Our Last Word takes an unusual turn as Tim Lobbof Thomson Perret Lobb Architects takes to the standto discuss their very specialist area of golf course land-scaping. The emergence of buildings and vast

structures in the Middle East has been part of a shiftin golf course architecture, a return to the classic styleof the range and upgrading and modernising them.

So, what is in store for the New Year? What willbe the main product launches for 2010? and willwe start to see a recovery in the state of architec-ture? If you have any questions you would like toput to our panel in the New Year or any new prod-uct innovations you would like to share with us,email me at [email protected], I wouldlove to hear from you!On one final note- Merry Christmas!

EDITORIAL:Editor: Jade [email protected]

PRODUCTION:Graphic Designer: Kerri [email protected]

SALES:Sales Manager: Donna [email protected] Executive: Karen Hill [email protected] Edition: Karli [email protected]

ADMINISTRATION:Accounts: Carole [email protected]: Joanne [email protected] control: [email protected]

Published by onecoms, a trading division of Media OneCommunications Ltd. GenevaHouse, Park Road, Peterborough,PE1 2UX. Telephone 01733 756555. www.onecoms.co.ukCopyright 2009, all rights reserved.No part of this publication may bereproduced in any way withoutwritten permission from thepublisher. All views and opinionsexpressed are not necessarilythose of the publisher.

December 2009

Cover Photo:Philips features on

page 11.

Jade Tilley, Editor

4 Architects Choice

Double Win for Eric Parry atArchitect of the Year AwardsEric Parry Architects hasreigned triumphant at theArchitect of the Year Awards,winning both the RichardFielden Architect of the YearAward and the OfficeArchitect of the Year Award.

The Richard FieldenArchitect of the YearAward, which celebrates

the “best of the best” in theindustry, goes to the firm con-sidered to have made the mostsignificant contribution toarchitecture in the last year.The judges, who included arange of leading figures in thearchitecture industry admiredthe body of work undertakenby Eric Parry Architects, rang-ing from the renewal of

St-Martin-in-the-Fields to 23Savile Row, a six-storey officeand retail building in the WestEnd. Of the buildings, theysaid, “(Eric Parry) had to dealwith a fantastically complexset of challenges, and areindicative of the architects’skill in combining new withold in a highly technical, yetthoughtful manner.”Commercial projects such asthe Stirling-shortlisted 5Aldermanbury Square and cul-tural projects like the newwing for the HolburneMuseum of Art in Bath weresaid to display an “intensity”that “has the power to movepeople,” and the judges com-mended the firm for being oneof few working today that dis-

plays a deep concern for theurban context of a buildingand the quality of the sur-rounding public realm.Office Architect of the Yearwas awarded to Eric ParryArchitects for the inventive-ness of approachdemonstrated in several build-ings, including 60Threadneedle Street and arecently completed project inNew Bond Street, where thedesigns are distinctive, but notforced, and are carefullywoven into the existing urbanfabric. The judges felt thatthese are important buildings,which, while highly regardednow, will also be highlyregarded by future genera-tions.

ARK Design & Architecture Ltdhas expanded its team with theappointment of top flight grad-uate Carl Thomas to theposition of ArchitecturalAssistant. Carl graduated in thesummer of 2009 from theUniversity of Liverpool’s Masterof Architecture course with a1st Class Honours along with aBachelor of Architecture(BAHons) from the school in2006. He was nominated for thePresidents Medals awards 2009for his Thesis Project titled: ThePromenade – Drift to StanleyDock. Carl was also awardedthe Peter Tyson prize for: Bestengagement with technology ina design project, at the 2008School of Architecture Degreeshow for Gorton Towers.

News brief...

PRP in collaboration with Quintain,has won the prestigious Best WasteInitiative Award at this year’sSustainable Housing Awards.TheAward was presented to PRP andQuintain for their work in designingand developing Forum House, thefirst completed block in theWembley City development.Forum House is the first completed

mixed use block in Wembley City. Itcovers 21,000m2 of residential spacefor 286 high quality residentialapartments, 47 per cent of whichare mixed tenure affordable hous-ing. The block also provides1,350m2 of retail and 750m2 ofcommunity space, with a basementcar park for 132 cars and 286secure bicycle storage spaces.Forum House is also the first UK resi-dential development to adopt theENVAC system for waste disposal,eliminating the need for residents touse noisy and smelly rubbish chutes.Residents collect waste in their built-in kitchen bins to ensure the

quantity fits easily into the systemwhen they come to dispose of theirwaste at collection points positionedon each floor and in the courtyard atexit points. Recycling figures for thefirst six months are 41.5 per cent,which is actually double what LBBrent achieve elsewhere in the bor-ough (they achieved 20.98 per centin 2008) and waste collection costsare reduced by 80 per cent, alongwith vehicle movements and CO2omissions in the process. TheSustainable Housing Awards cele-brate the projects and organisationsat the vanguard of housing sustain-ability best practice.

december

ARK APPOINTMENT

HRH PRINCESSALEXANDRA OPENSNEW HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE CENTREThe new £3m Health and SocialCare Centre in Teddington byNightingale Associates, has beenofficially opened by HRH PrincessAlexandra. The 1326msq L-shapecentre is a modular buildingunder P21 and replaces the exist-ing clinic facilities. The metal cladbuilding accommodates fourconsult and examine rooms,community nurses, occupationaltherapists, mental health servicesand a specialist dental clinic.Emphasis was placed upon userconsultation throughout theproject with presentations, inte-rior design workshops and twopublic consultation meetings. Aswell as landscaping, way-findingand signage work, the teamworked with NightingaleAssociates Architect and Directorof Design Research andInnovation, Richard Mazuch, toexplore how to best use art inthe building, providing a fullyintegrated design service to theclient. Repeat work has beensecured from the Trust.

Forum Housewins sustainablehousing award

Architects Choice 5

December 2009

Above & Beyond were recently taskedwith carrying out refurbishment proj-ects on two of Yorkshire’s iconicstation buildings. The client for thisproject is First, one of the UK’s largestrail and bus operators. First are a stepahead in leading the transformationof the way people travel and the waythey feel about public transport First’saim is to invest in and create the high-est levels of passenger service andsafety. The task for Above & Beyondcame about as a result of The NationalStation Improvement Programme(NSIP); a joint industry initiativefunded primarily by the Departmentfor Transport. It aims to deliver £165million worth of station improve-ments to a minimum of 150medium-sized stations in England andWales. Above & Beyond was con-

tracted to tender for two of theYorkshire’s iconic station buildingsunder the National StationImprovement Programme. Huddersfield and Dewsbury stationsare both listed buildings and thedesigns created by Above & Beyondare for refurbishment and internalreorganisation.

The projects undertaken by Above& Beyond include improvements topassenger flow, ticket areas and atHuddersfield a disused stable block isto be converted to staff accommoda-tion. The designs are in line with NSIPguidelines for safe, modern, comfort-able facilities whilst maintaining thearchitectural integrity of the twolisted buildings.

Both projects are at tender stageand are due for completion in 2010.

december

24 - 27 JANUARYInteriors eventwww.interiorsbirmingham.com

diarydates

NEC, BIRMINGHAMThe Interiors event is designed specifi-

cally for retailers, interior designers,

architects and contractors to source

the very latest interior products from

new and up-and-coming design talent

as well as established brands. This

year, the show will be displaying the

‘Thinking space’, inviting visitors to

explore the specialist area, which aims

to inspire and invigorate.

3-4 FEBRUARYThe arc showwww.thearcshow.com

EARLS COURT TWO, LONDONThe ARC Show is a unique exhibition of

the world’s leading lighting brands, pro-

moting their products and services at

the heart of the most influential archi-

tectural and design community,

London. New products and technolo-

gies wil be on show as well as the latest

trends and legislation information.

2-4 MARCHEcobuildwww.ecobuild.com

EARLS COURT, LONDONEcobuild is the ultimate sustainableconstruction show. With over 850exhibitors showcasing their productsand more than 100 conferences andseminars aimed directly at the con-struction industry, Ecobuild is onenot to be missed. In 2010 Ecobuildvisitor registration is sponsored byThe Energy Saving Trust, who willalso be highlighting its services tothe industry; The annual BritishHome Award winners will beannounced and the Ecobuild FringeProgramme will be bringing togethera variety of eventsm making theshow a very worthwhile visit.

21-24 MARCHKBBwww.kbb.co.uk

NEC, BIRMINGHAMThe all-important Kitchens, bed-rooms and bathrooms show is backwith a vengeance for 2010.Gathering industry experts and influ-ential product innovators, KBB bringstogether the best in the industry forhot tpoic seminars and the best net-working opportunities.

To publicise your event, pleasesend details via email to

[email protected].

New York recently saw MayorBloomberg join members of the NewYork Police Department and other keyfigures to celebrate the groundbreak-ing of Rafael Viñoly Architects’ 121stPolice Precinct Station House.Responding to the borough’s rapidlygrowing population, the 121st PolicePrecinct will fill the need of anexpanded law enforcement presence,cutting response times and relievingthe workload of existing precincts.The 121st Police Precinct StationHouse’s design responds to the chal-lenges of an irregular site with twodistinct building volumes: a two-storylinear bar, gently arcing in plan andgradually increasing in height as itapproaches the commercial district ofRichmond Avenue, and a separateone-story volume where the site flaresoutward to the south. The secondfloor cantilevers over towardRichmond Avenue symbolically reach-ing out to engage the community. Thiscantilever defines the main entrance

and creates a visual link between themain lobby and Richmond Avenue. The Station House’s two buildingmasses are distinguished by variedheights, differing surface treatments—horizontal stainless steel cladding onthe long bar, gray brick on the one-story volume—and a skylight over theinterstitial space between them. Thelong bar structure also shields the resi-dential neighbourhood to the northfrom the police parking lot to thesouth. Outdoor mechanical servicesare concealed within the form, inte-grated into an enclosure clad in thesame stainless steel. Acting as a model for buildings withinthe city of New York, the 121st Precinctincorporates a number of green build-ing techniques. Site-relatedinterventions such as brownfield recla-mation, stormwater management,bio-retention areas, and drought-resis-tant landscaping are all in evidence andthe east-west orientation of the build-ing is ideal for energy conservation.

New York policing re-design

Ticket office taskEric Parry said, “We aredelighted to have beenawarded both the RichardFielden Architect of the Yearaward and the OfficeArchitect of the Year Award.This year has marked thecompletion of a group ofimportant projects. We havebeen fortunate to work withgreat clients and contractorsand I think that these awardsare also a tribute to thoseongoing and successful rela-tionships.”This double win marks theculmination of an impressiveyear for Eric Parry Architects,who were nominated for theStirling Prize for 5Aldermanbury Square andalso won the RIBA London &English Heritage Award forSustaining the HistoricEnvironment and the RIBALondon & Design for LondonPublic Space Award for StMartin-in-the-Fields.

6 Architects Choice

Design and ConstructionSpecialist, RJ Lewis Project Ltdwere recently tasked with cre-ating a state-of-the-art“underground” home inCheshire. RJ Lewis had to sat-isfy stringent planningregulations while creating the15,000 square feet of livingspace required by its prospec-tive owner. Amongst otherrestrictions, local plannersdecreed that the visible part ofthe hillside home should mir-ror the footprint of an oldcottage formerly occupyingthe site.The result has beenthe creation of a futuristic,four-storey property where 85per cent of the development –including the vast majority ofliving space, a luxurious swim-ming pool and parking formultiple vehicles – is carvedinto rock. The completedhome, whose location at stun-

ning Helsby Hill falls withinGreen Belt as well as an Areaof Special County Value, is dueto be handed to its new ownerearly in 2010.

RJ Lewis Projects’ DirectorSimon Lewis explained: “Theplot’s owner had been lookingto create a large family homethat caused minimal environ-mental impact, both on thesurrounding countryside and inits day-to-day running.“Having previously worked oneverything from offices and lab-oratories to retail centres andleisure complexes, RJ LewisProjects is extremely experi-enced in marrying innovativedesign with the exactingrequirements of planners.However, at Helsby Hill we’veneeded to create completelynew design features while alsonegotiating a planning mine-

field. We’ve worked extremelyclosely with the local authorityto design and create a 15,800-square-foot home that offersthe expansive, low-energy livingspace required while havingminimal impact on the sur-rounding countryside. Localcouncillors, planners and neigh-bours have all been involved inthe consultation process.”The main structure of the newbuilding is a steel frame, withtimber-framed and panelledwalls then being used to createfour levels of stunning livingspace, two of which are belowground. Features include aswimming pool and familyspace on the lower-ground floorand a large lounge area andopen-plan kitchen in the heartof the house on the groundlevel, with two additional floorsof en-suite bedrooms.The highly innovative features

introduced by the RJ Lewisteam include an internal court-yard which allows light intothe ground floor withoutbeing visible from the sur-rounding area. There are alsoanti-glare windows, a vertical“light tower” to carry naturaldaylight below ground, a spe-cially designed energy-freeventilation system and a cut-ting-edge security system. Fullhome automation ensures thatenergy consumption is con-trolled whilst delivering a truly21st-century, contemporary liv-ing experience.The house is served by its ownwater borehole, uses bio-fuelenergy and features its ownwaste-water treatment plant.Its environmental impact hasalso been reduced by usingsustainable building materialsand, by being below ground,incorporating a lawned roof.

Futuristic home takes shape under ground

december

Westminster CityCouncil deploys 21stCentury street lights Keen to eliminate wasted energyand to cut pollution, WestminsterCity Council is taking steps tomake savings from its street light-ing with the deployment of arevolutionary new system it hasbeen trialling as a part of itsSMART Lights project. Savings of up to £46 per street-light per year and 100kg ofcarbon emissions per streetlightper year can be made from theCouncil’s energy bill thanks to aground breaking street lightingsolution called LeafNut. The tech-nology has been developed over asix year period by HarvardEngineering, a UK basedTechnology Company. With the

City Council managing around15,000 street lights the SMARTLights project is expected to makesavings of up to £420,000 per yearand reduce its carbon emissions byover 1.5 million kg. The savings are achieved by usingmodern electronics to replace oldsystems in the lamp heads - existingstreet lighting is up to 30 years oldand very inefficient. These are con-nected to innovative wirelesstechnology providing remote accessand control to individual or groupsof streetlights. The system managesthe light output allowing the dim-ming of the streetlights to match thespecific requirements of a location atdifferent times of night. Thisreduces energy wastage due to overlighting, saves electricity and cutscosts, whilst also reducing carbonconsumption and light pollution. Ajunction or area of all night activity

can remain fully lit, whilst reducedlighting levels may be sufficient foradjacent housing, industrial or parkareas. Even then, such is the flexibil-ity of the system that at the press ofa button the lighting can bebrought back to full intensity. Thissafety aspect can be maintained inconjunction with the city’s CCTVmonitoring service. Westminster City Council requireslighting solutions that help enablethe highways to be illuminated tomeet the specific needs of itsdiverse and ever changing environ-ment. The LeafNut system allowsdesigned lighting solutions to beoperated at dimmed lighting levelsand only increased when requiredto meet environmental needs whichmay be daily/weekly such as a the-atre opening and closing ormonthly/annually for known events.The solution also cleverly provides a

daily maintenance report for eachlight. This not only identifiesbulbs, which have failed, but alsoones which are about to fail. Nolonger will costly inspections berequired as maintenance can beaccurately scheduled and man-aged via the Internet.

HLM Architects swept the board atthe recent RIBA White Rose Awards,for its excellent design of TheQueen's Centre for Oncology andHaematology at Castle Hill Hospitalin Cottingham, East Yorkshire.

The project won four majorawards including: The RIBADesign Award - Best NewBuilding; The White Rose Award -Gold Medal; Best landscapeAward - Commendation and BestClient Award.

Completed in June 2008, TheQueen's Centre for Oncology andHaematology at Castle Hill Hospital,which was designed by HLMArchitects (architecture, interiorsand landscape) and built at a con-struction cost of £42 million, hasalready been recognised as a centre

of excellence for the treatment ofcancer and blood disorders.

Nick Beecroft, Director at HLMArchitects, said: “We are thrilledwith the awards, which truly posi-tion this hospital as a UK Centre ofExcellence. This project is a greatexample of what can be achievedwith collaboration and teamworkbetween the client, project teamand all other stakeholders. It hascreated a ‘healing environment’that complements its beautiful sur-roundings, that shows innovation,and which will make a real differ-ence to 1.2 million people. Winningso many awards for such a highprofile project also reinforces HLM’sgrowing design profile and ourreputation for high qualityHealthcare and Public Buildings.

It shows that good design in PFI/PPPProjects is thoroughly achievable.”

The Queen's Centre forOncology and Haematology hasalso been short-listed for the PublicPrivate Finance Awards 2009, forthe Best community / user involve-ment in a project category.

Project teamArchitect: HLM Architects; Client: Hull& East Yorks Hospitals NHS Trust;Structural Engineer: White YoungGreen; Services Engineer: Hulley &Kirkwood; EnvironmentalConsultant: Enviros Consulting;Project Manager: Gleeds; Contractor:Shepherd Construction; ConstructionContract Value: £42m and Grossinternal area: 19,900 sqm.

december

John McAslan + Partners received theWorld and Transport Architect of theYear Awards. Tony Skipper,Managing Director at John McAslan+ Partners, who accepted the awardson behalf of the practice, said, “Weare thrilled to have John McAslan +Partners’ work recognized by theAYA and it is wonderful for ourteams who have all been workingincredibly hard. It has been a toughtime for the architectural professionover the past year, so it is also impor-tant to congratulate everyone on theshortlist, which displays a fantasti-cally diverse range of qualityarchitecture.”

JMP’s most challenging recent probono project, set up through the$100m Clinton Hunter DevelopmentInitiative in Malawi, supports theMalawi government’s scheme todevelop free primary education forall children in well-designed build-ings. The first target was to provide10 buildings across three sites, with atypical classroom block budgeted tocost a maximum of $20,000. Theschools are now set to be rolled outacross the country. In many of itsprojects, John McAslan + Partners -

using up to 10 per cent of its pretaxprofits - has set up linked pro bonoschemes, some working in partner-ship with the Clinton GlobalInitiative, including a StrategicDevelopment Framework for theSchool of Genocide Studies in Kigali,Rwanda, as part of the world-renowned Kigali Memorial Centre.

Of the World Architect of the Yearaward, the judges said that JMP“stood out in particular for thestrong connection that was evidentbetween the architecture, the placeand the people. The world in 2009 is

a very different place to the world in2007 and the work submitted byJohn McAslan’s office exemplified areal commitment to sustainabledevelopment at every level.

The accolade for TransportArchitect of the Year was given for aportfolio of projects. The practice iscurrently working on the £450Mdevelopment of the Grade I listedKing’s Cross station in the heart ofLondon, a project that forms the cen-trepiece of what will be the mostsignificant piece of urban regenera-tion in Europe.

John McAslan + Partners celebrates dual win at Architect of the Year Awards

Architects Choice 7

News brief...

Earlier this year, NightingaleAssociates secured a contractto design the £5m Women’sInternational Centre forEconomic Development(WICED), to be situated inLiverpool’s city centre. Theproject has now taken a signifi-cant step forward afterLiverpool City Councilapproved the plans. The2,000sqm centre is the first ofits kind in the UK and will belocated in the heart ofLiverpool. Expected to help3,000 women set up businesses,creating 4,500 new jobs overthe next ten years, the plan-ners congratulated NightingaleAssociates on their design. KierNorth West have beenappointed to head up the con-struction of the scheme thatbegins later this year.

The Abu Dhabi-based AloftHotel designed by RMJMrecently welcomed its firstguests in time for the EtihadAirways Abu Dhabi FormulaOne Grand Prix. With less thana year scheduled for the mainconstruction of the hotel,RMJM implemented a meticu-lous planning programme toensure the doors would beopen for the last race in theGrand Prix season on 1stNovember. RMJM is alsodesigning the iconic ‘CapitalGate’ tower on the same microcity site being constructedaround the thriving Abu DhabiNational Exhibition Centre. Thetower has been submitted tothe Guinness Book of WorldRecords for being the mostinclined building in the world,which, with a lean of 18degrees, inclines 14 degreesmore than the famous leaningtower of Pisa.

INTERNATIONALWOMEN’S ENTERPRISECENTRE SECURES PLANNING PERMISSION

ABU DHABI HOTEL WELCOMES F1

Triumph at RIBA White Rose Awards

industry news

8 Architects Choice

Yorkshire rewarded for environmental practices

Grand designs,minimal budget

kitchen solution for the less able-bodied and setabout creating a product range to meet those needs.Our new Elan range incorporates all of the aids andadaptations available in one platform.” For further information 01902 864685 or [email protected]. Chamois Eco-Kitchens, Units 1-7Showell Road, Bushbury, Wolverhampton WV10 9LN.West Midlands eco kitchen company Chamois is

going from strength to strength – accessing newmarkets, opening a new demonstration facility andappearing at Grand Designs Live later this month -thanks to its innovative products and business ethos.The business has operated ecologically throughoutits 28 year history but some ingenious product inno-vations and an endorsement from One PlanetProducts has recently enabled it to capture the heartsand minds of physically impaired customers as wellincreasingly environmentally-conscious consumers.Chamois Managing Director Andy Jones-Dutt com-mented: “With an ageing population and the desireof most people to live independent lives in their ownhomes, we identified the need for a user-friendly

Business Awards.Yorkshire was nominated byGroundwork Merseyside, the largestenvironmental charity on Merseyside, who work inpartnership with people and organizations in thelocal community. Groundwork Merseyside havebeen working with Yorkshire to help the companyimprove its environmental impact in areasincluding power consumption and wastemanagement. Lavinia Cooke, from GroundworkMerseyside, said: “We nominated Yorkshirebecause of its on-going commitment to reducingits environmental impact, not only forimprovements already made but also for work inthe pipeline.” Alan Ogilvie, Yorkshire’s FacilitiesManager, commented: “We are delighted to havewon this award. Our work with GroundworkMerseyside has been invaluable and has enabled usto make significant reductions bothenvironmentally and financially.” For further information visit www.yct.com.

Nebula Court, the new development in Plaistow, EastLondon, is setting the trend for using renewableenergy in community housing with the installation of63 ModuSol solar collectors from HamworthyHeating. M&E contractors chose Hamworthy’sheating products as they provided a space savingsolution whilst significantly reducing the building’scarbon footprint. Through Hamworthy Heating’sTechnology Partner Programme, the solar collectorswere installed by one of its approved installers,Natural Power Wales. Solar energy is absorbed usingthe high efficiency solar collectors, which are testedand certified to EN 12975. The solar arrays are usedto provide pre-heated feed water via six HamworthyPowerstock PS 1000 calorifiers. The solar collectorsare complemented by three Purewell VariHeat 180kWgas fired condensing boilers, including a boilersequencing cascade controller, to supply heating and

top up for the hot water when demand is extra high.Operating as a fully pumped system, the communityheating is driven by a series of risers from thebasement plantroom to the top floor, which eachservice five or six flats, working via a hydraulicinterface unit in each dwelling. For further information telephone 0845 450 2865

Renewable energy in community housing

Energy efficiency in Denmark has been cre-ated by a range of new technologies andsolutions, and this can today serve as anexample of how one can create a high levelof growth without a corresponding increasein energy consumption or greenhouse gasemissions according to Ministry of Climateand Energy of Denmark. A good example ofthe Danish way of approaching the climatechallenges is the tap manufacturer VOLAA/S. The company produces its taps inDenmark using a perfect mixture of the mostmodern engineering technology and oldScandinavian craftsmanship. Conscious useof natural resources such as energy saving isone its goals according to its ISO 14001 envi-ronmental management system. VOLA hasdecided to reduce the consumption of elec-tricity in its factory in 2010 by eight per centcompared to 2008 - and in 2011 by 15 percent, which corresponds to a CO2 reductionof 130 t. VOLA recycles all the brass andstainless steel used in the factory.Furthermore the company has committeditself to reduce the scrap percentage by 30per cent by a conscious use of naturalresources and introduction of more efficientproduction methods. The first VOLA tapwas designed in 1968 by Arne Jacobsen. AllVOLA taps are produced in Denmark. For further information visit www.vola.com

Denmark - A workinglaboratory for energytechnologies

timber industries and where the best market opportuni-ties might be. The Medite2016 Forum is an informalorganization, which currently has some seventy mem-bers; most of its membership hold senior executiveroles either within the timber industry or have govern-mental, business or academic involvement with theindustry. Facilitated by Medite, the 2016 Forum servesas a conduit for the publishing and exchange of ideasand views on issues that will shape the future of thetimber industry both in Europe and globally.

The latest output from the Medite2016 Forum - aunique timber and construction ‘think tank’ of indus-try leaders and academics - is a forecast for 2010 andbeyond. The forecast takes the form of a surveyreport and is essential reading at a time when mostcompanies are looking at likely market demand fornext year. The survey of the membership of theMedite2016 Forum sought their views on issuesincluding prospects for 2010 and beyond, the natureof any recovery, the impact on the construction &

A FORUM FOR THE FUTUREFor further information visitwww.medite2016.com

Yorkshire Copper Tube, has been rewarded byKnowsley Borough Council for ‘Best Contributionto the Environment’ at the recent Knowsley

industry news

Architects Choice 9

A new LED lighting scheme has provided a success-ful step towards meeting the city council’s carbonreduction targets, as well as delivering a complaintlighting solution for a public space. Dave Franks,Public Lighting Manager for the Council, explained,“the original lighting throughout Westbourne Greenin Westminster was in need of updating, particularlyfor an area with a perceived ‘fear of crime’. Weapproached Urbis to see if they could fit an LEDsolution into their decorative Haydon lantern. Thisproved no problem for their design team.” The mainpedestrian routes through Westbourne Green are litwith thirty of Urbis’ Haydon units, each fitted with12 white LEDs. The use of LED technology meansthat light can be directed so that the majority fallsonly on the paths. The servicing interval of the unitsshould be around 13 years and they will also reducethe Council’s energy bills.

Urbis in Westminster For further information email [email protected] visit www.urbislighting.com

Charter Integr8’s architecturally advanced securityshutters have been installed in the £1m redevelop-ment of a prestige residential property overlookingLondon’s Richmond Park. Built-in shutters (whichfeature a mechanism housed within a structural lin-tel, making the shutters almost invisible when open)were fitted to eight potentially vulnerable windowsand French doors on the 320sqm property at a costof £15,000. “This is the first time we have usedbuilt-in shutters in this way. It’s something we woulddefinitely do again and I would think there will bedemand for this type of product on other high-spechousing projects,” the leading architect commented.“Charter provided good design and technical helpthroughout. The shutters fit discreetly into the cav-ity - in fact the product does exactly what it says onthe tin! We were impressed by its quality too.” Thisview was echoed by the contractor: “The shutterswere delivered on time and fitted well by Charter.We experienced no problems. It’s a sturdy, qualityproduct and Charter supplied good back-up.” For further information telephone 0845 0508705or visit www.chartergroupuk.com.

Protecting luxury homes

The Glass and Glazing Federation has petitionedthe Government to introduce a scrappage scheme,whereby householders are encouraged to scraptheir old, poorly insulated windows in return for a£1,000 grant towards the installation of new, pro-fessionally installed, energy efficient ones. Thepetition has been set up through the ePetition

Sign the windowscrappage scheme

Scheme on the Official website of the PrimeMinister’s Office at www.number10.gov.uk. Thebenefits of this scheme for window manufactur-ers, suppliers and installers would be increasedsales and a reversal in the downward trend in thenumber of installed windows and doors.Consumer would save £1,000 and enjoy a faceliftto their homes, along with lower fuel bills andmore energy efficient homes. The governmentwould benefit from reduced emissions from theexisting housing stock, helping it to meet the nec-essary green house gas emission targets. Thegovernment would also reclaim some of the grantmoney in VAT. Five hundred signatures areneeded to take the petition to the next stage.Given the size of the industry, and the popularityof WER’s, the GGF expects the petition toreceive many more signatures than that. For further information visit www.ggf.org.uk

The German wayto sustainabilityCeiling and floor panels from Heradesign arehelping to improve the environmental per-formance of two landmark public buildings inGermany, which are set to provide inspirationfor UK architects and public building contrac-tors. The company’s wood-wool panels havebeen used in the entrance of the dramaticClimate House® in Bremerhaven, and theCitizens’ Advice Bureau in the New TownHall in Gotha, thanks to their environmentalcredentials and acoustic performance.Heradesign’s panels are developed from 100per cent renewable raw materials: wood-wool,water and magnesite. They are also recyclableand pollutant-free, making them the idealchoice for building designers looking for moresustainable materials. Not only do the panelshave proven environmental credentials, theyalso have excellent acoustic properties helpingto generate a quiet and calm atmosphere inpotentially noisy public spaces such asentrance halls and lobby areas, benefits thatwill appeal to designers of public buildings.For further information telephone 01375675504, email [email protected] visit http://www.heradesign.co.uk

made up of 30mm glazing laminated (exterior) andtoughened (interior), and Schüco’s jansen steel pro-files. The clerestorey glazing is fixed into the curtainwalling transom below and to a steel angle above theceiling, and consists of 30mm thick, PilkingtonOptiwhite, non-reflective glass in sizes approximately3.6m wide x 1 m high. Inside the 370m² Centre,Structura has supplied and installed internal glazedscreens, two sets of sliding doors, seven sets of swingdoors and several oversize windows. The main con-tractor was ROK. The structural engineer was Arup. For further information telephone 020 8397 4361or email [email protected]

The glazed walls below the spectacular “floating”roof of the new Maggie’s Cancer Caring Centre,London, the winner of the RIBA Stirling Prize2009, were manufactured and installed by StructuraUK Ltd, curtain wall engineering specialist. Theraised roof allows light to flood into the buildingand appears to “float” because no columns orframing can be seen supporting it. Structura’s workinvolved installing curtain walling 6m high x 60mwide in overall length to four elevations, and fixingclerestorey glazing above. The curtain walling is

Stirling walls

industry news

10 Architects Choice

Civil and structural engineering company, PinnacleConsulting Engineers has announced acomprehensive rebrand. From November 2009,

Pinnacle announces rebranding

The ACDC experience gain an insight into the innovative world of LEDand Cold Cathode lighting. For further information telephone 0845 862 6421,email [email protected] orvisit www.acdclighting.co.uk

The ACDC Experience shocked and amazed visitorsto 100% Design with its sheer audacity. The com-pany’s ‘mobile exhibition stand’ – which started lifeas a double-decker bus, brought the future of LEDand Cold Cathode lighting literally into the heart ofthe Earl’s Court show. Featuring all of ACDC’s latestproducts, designed and manufactured by the innova-tive lighting specialist here in the U.K, the bus livedup to the 100% Design Show’s mantra of showcas-ing the very ‘Best of British’. Next stop for the busis the Love Light event, being held at the RoyalCollege of Physicians in London’s Regents Park,where over 200 architects and interior designers willbe invited to ‘hop on board with ACDC’ whilstbeing given a tour of the future of lighting. ACDCare also planning to hold a number of CPD presen-tations on-board the bus in the very near future,where architects, specifiers along with interior andlighting designers will be given an opportunity to

Pinnacle Consulting Engineers will be known asPinnacle. Eager to ensure its name and brandremains visibly high in the current economicclimate, Pinnacle has also worked with brandingagency, Black Pig to revitalise its web site,corporate brochures, logo, stationery. A newmarketing strapline, ‘Advice you can build on’ hasalso been incorporated into the marketing materieland has become the company’s new web siteaddress www.adviceyoucanbuildon.com Withoffices in Norwich, Chippenham, Welwyn andDublin, Pinnacle has grown to be a leadingprovider of comprehensive construction relatedservices, from project inception through tocompletion. The company advises on propertyacquisition throughout the UK, and works with anumber of multinational blue chip companies.For further information visitwww.adviceyoucanbuildon.com

GEZE UK, has helped Canterbury’s Age Concernday centre out of tight spot with a space-savingfolding automatic door to enable access for all.Retrofitting automatic doors into existingbuildings can be a squeeze, but for Age Concern,easy access to their day centre for their elderly anddisabled visitors was essential. GEZE UKspecified its Slimdrive SF automatic sliding doorsto provide an elegant, effective solution thatmaximised the available opening width. Part ofGEZE’s Slimdrive range, the SF operator is just7cm high, which enables the drives to bediscreetly located while operating within limitedspace. Using state-of-the-art control technology,the Slimdrive SF has a high performance motorthat ensures the doors open smoothly, while beinghighly efficient and quiet. Its excellent safetyfeatures include built-in finger guards and anelectro-mechanical locking system as standard. For further information telephone 01543 443 000.

Geze’s Canterbury tale

INAUGURAL SCHÜCO OPEN A HUGE SUCCESS

The Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB)recently hosted the UK’s Aluminium inRenovation Awards at the National MotorcycleMuseum, Solihull. This was the second time theevent had been run in the UK and despite theeconomic climate a record 41entries werereceived and an audience of over 150 were enter-tained by BBC Commentator, Garry Richardsonwho was compere for the evening. JustinRatcliffe, CAB Chief Executive introduced theawards to an audience of CAB Members andtheir guests, architects, specifiers and MainContractors. He explained that the Awards con-sisted of eight national competitions followed bya European final in Brussels in November 2009to reward the best use of aluminium in renova-tion, a sector where the qualities of the lightmetal were often underestimated. The Awardshelped bring awareness of how aluminium couldbe used to preserve a piece of national heritageor to upgrade the environmental performanceof residential or utility buildings. The overallwinner who also received prize money of £5,000was Amanda Levete Architects for 10 HillsPlace, Off Oxford Street.For further information telephone 01453 828851or visit www.c-a-b.org.uk

‘Aluminium in Renovation Awards’

Havret. These four top golfers – all Schüco brandambassadors – were teeing off for sustainable cli-mate protection. Together, they represent theSchüco corporate vision of “Energy2 – Savingenergy and generating energy”. The best perform-ance of the day on the new course at the BielefeldGolf Club came from Miguel Ángel Jiménez. TheSpaniard fired a new course record of 65 shots tobecome the first winner of the Schüco Open. For further information telephone 01908 282 111.

As the final putt dropped, more than 2000 thrilledspectators, experienced international stars andambitious amateurs were united in adjudging thefirst ever Schüco Open a resounding success. Thehigh-quality invitational tournament, held to markthe expansion of the Bielefeld Golf Club to a full18-hole course, included German sporting legendBernhard Langer, Scottish maestro ColinMontgomerie, Andalusian star Miguel ÁngelJiménez, and French professional Grégory

Royal Philips Electronics is delighted to have spon-sored “LoveLight” held in October this year at theRoyal College of Physicians in central London.This unique event is the first of its kind and aimsto put lighting at the heart of architecture. Theevent, initiated by the Professional LightingDesigners’ Association and Emap, the business tobusiness media group, lived up to its billing as oneof the most innovative and inspiring events onlighting ever staged. The event provided the idealplatform to discuss how LEDs have truly revolu-tionized the way architects and designers thinkabout light. Clearly, LEDs are beginning to create anew lighting landscape. They offer full economicand environmental benefits but they also offer achance to open up a world of endless creative pos-sibilities creating lighting solutions in places andways that were never possible before. In the area ofmedia facades, here too, LEDs offer many benefits,not least of which is the seamless integration witharchitecture at concept and installation stage. For further information telephone 0845 601 1283or email [email protected]

Lighting at the heart of architecture

Pool pump action mental control solutions for swimming pool halls.The ECA scheme allows compliant machinery to ben-efit from a 100 per cent write off against taxableprofits in the first year- a major cash flow boost forthe commercial sector. The compact, yet powerfulCalorex Delta machines work as a combined heatpump dehumidifier with automatic heat recovery.Typically, for every unit of power that a Calorex Deltaconsumes, it will convert three times this amount touseable heat. The potential energy savings are huge. For further information telephone 01621 856611,email [email protected] or visitwww.calorex.com

Calorex Heat Pumps and its UK distributors Certkin,are celebrating a major pool industry coup after twoCalorex products were confirmed as the first and onlyspecialist swimming pool heat pump heat recoverymachines to be included in a Government cash backscheme, known as the ECA scheme, to encourageenergy efficiency in commercial indoor pool projects.Inclusion into the energy technology list, which listsmachinery that is complaint with the ECA scheme,means that the Delta 14 and 16 are recognised as ableto provide low carbon and energy efficient environ-

industry news

Architects Choice 11

New life has been breathed into one ofManchester’s most iconic city centre land-marks of 50 years, the Ramada PiccadillyHotel, following an extensive refurbishment.It was the largest of the refurbishment proj-ects undertaken as part of the Jarvis Hotelsrollout programme, with nearly 300 bed-rooms and four levels of public areasincluding reception areas, bars, restaurant,function rooms, conferencing and back ofhouse areas, needing attention. The refur-bishment has dramatically transformed theimage, appearance and performance of thiswell-known city centre hotel as Stuart Prior,Project Associate for the project at JWAArchitects, explained: “As it’s a huge concretestructure we had to come up with innovativeways of installing new mechanical and elec-trical equipment, using conduits, andbringing fire regulation requirements up-to-date. We also refitted the hotel’s kitchens,which alone cost £1.1m. To complement ourarchitecture services, we offer a creative, yetcost-effective interior design service, so it’smuch easier for clients knowing that bothstages of a refit and refurbishment projectare being managed at a single point.” For further information telephone 01858 525343.

A 60s landmarkis transformed

IMPRESSIVE INVESTMENT FROM C-TECalarms and induction loop amplifiers. As techni-cal author, Ian Fox will be responsible forproducing instructions, technical documentationand online help files at the company which spe-cializes in the UK manufacture of fire alarmcontrol panels, power supplies, call systems anddisability equipment. Paul Sannant joins C-TEC’steam of mechanical engineers. For further information telephone 01942 322744or email c-tech.co.uk.

C-TEC, has expanded its R&D department byrecruiting three additional specialist designengineers and a dedicated technical author.Graham Williamson is C-TEC’s new seniorPCB layout engineer. With over 30 years’ expe-rience in the electronics industry, most recentlyat Baxall Security, Graham will head up all newPCB design projects. Audio-acoustic specialist,Ann Fomukong has been appointed designengineer and will assist in the design of voice

This month’s question: Discusses predictions for the New Year and our Panels’ New Year resolutions for 2010.

uestiontimePHILIP RICHARDSARCHITECT AT WOODS BAGOT

Following the patterns oftime, architecture has alwaysresponded to the good andbad economic situations. Inthe pre-recession, we experi-enced some architecturalgems, iconic and small scale.Unfortunately these gemswere engulfed by a mesa ofarchitectural nightmares,designed by ‘form followsinvestment’ which now scarthe skyline and urban environ-ment, reminding us of thegood old boom time. Post- recession with 2010around the corner, it is difficultto predict the future course ofarchitectural design, one canjust be optimistic. The gloom ofthe post war era gave us somegreat straight forward mod-ernist buildings by some daring

architects only to be followedby the concrete high riseestates that now blot the urbanlandscape. The boom time ineighties provided us with postmodernism, creating a newform of circus architecture. Architecture, recession andboom time in this current worldsituation always reminds me ofthe quote by Harry Lime in the1948 film ‘The Third Man’directed by Carol Reed. Set inVienna after the Second WorldWar. ‘In Italy for 30 years underthe Borgias they had warfare,terror, murder, and bloodshed,but they producedMichelangelo, Leonardo daVinci, and the Renaissance. InSwitzerland they had brotherlylove - they had 500 years ofdemocracy and peace, and

what did that produce? Thecuckoo clock.’ I think the reference to thecuckoo clock and post-mod-ernist architecture is quite aptand hopefully the post reces-sion will encourage a newperspective for architects toproduce designs that willbecome timeless and engrainedinto the urban environment.With any luck some of the welldesigned schemes that got puton hold due to the down turnwill re-emerge and inject a pos-itive feel to the urbanenvironment and the up andcoming architectural commu-nity. The others hopefully willremain in the filing cabinet.With the grounding of theiconic buildings, perhaps a newmodest architecture willemerge, which will stand thetest of time and not display thearchitectural excess we haveexperienced in the last coupleof years, before it all went a bit

pear shaped. It will be good tosee the new emerging build-ings that will be built next yearto contain a fine balance ofmodesty, modernity and tradi-tion that will kick start and setan precedent for the next gen-eration of buildings to come.This kick start has happenedbefore, but unfortunately didnot have the impact andmomentum that is required,right now! My architectural new year’s res-olution will consist of a simplerational architectural diet withno added trimmings andabsolutely no ornamentation,combined with a large sideplatter of green sustainability.No architectural excess and noarchitectural saccharine. AHealthier menu, combined

with uncomplicated healthyingredients and more impor-tantly, without any aftertaste.In terms of a new horizon –Let’s hope that people don’tlook forward to the New Yearfor a new start on old habits;the new year is another chancefor us to get it right.

JACK PRINGLEPARTNER AT PRINGLE BRANDON

New Decade, New Blood.Indicators do suggest thatthings have stopped gettingworse, but that still leaves usat the bottom of a recessionand the climb out may bemore painful than the descent.On the ascent, architects willinevitably be relying on diffi-cult new jobs won at supercompetitive rates.Unfortunately, there won’t bemuch public, cultural work asstate spending gets tightlysqueezed by the Tories. Therewon’t be much commercialnew build either because, withoccupiers reducing their spacetake up by about 25 per centper employee, we’ve got asmany offices as we need forthe near future. But, barring a double dip, therewill be urban regenerationprobably led by housing, imagi-native refurbishment, new buildand infill as leases come to anend and opportunities andneeds reappear. Emerging IT trends includingsmall cool, often wireless kit atthe user end and remote power-ful data centers accessedthrough fiber optic or cloud net-works will mean that old build-ings can perform just about aswell as new buildings for IT-de-pendent occupiers.These smaller projects will begood news for new practices tocut their teeth on. Clients willfeel that it’s less of a risk com-missioning young architects onrefurbishments and infill andwill be attracted by the promiseof something new and fresh to

“With any luck some of the well designedschemes that got put on hold due to the downturn will re-emerge and inject a positive feelinto the urban environment.” Phil Richards

Figures of late haveshown a small in-crease in startingprojects and it seemsthat construction is inrecovery mode forthe New Year, afterall, buildings stillneed to accommo-date and designerswill always beneeded for crucial,urban enhancing de-signs. It will be a re-freshing change tosee buildings beingerected for cultural,societal and artisticpleasure as well asjust the necessity.With a slight increasein activity bringsgreater hope for thefuture of the built en-vironment, we canbegin to lift the coun-try and in fact, theworld out of thiscomatose state ofbuilding affairs.

With the New Yearhorizon in sight, whatdo you predict wewill be seeing in 2010in terms of Architec-tural design? Will wesee a move awayfrom our recent styleand change in per-spective for archi-tects? And, what isyour architecturalnew years resolution?

question time


Our industry

experts provide a

compelling insight

into the design

issues surrounding

today’s architecture

THE EXPERTS...PHILIP RICHARDSARCHITECT AT WOODSBAGOT

Philip has been involved in adiverse array of architecturalprojects including several highprofile mixed-use

developments. Most recently, Philip was incolvedfrom design through to development of the TFL sitein Hammersmith and was joint co-ordinator of theGateway buildings to the National Stadium, OlympicWay, Wembley. Currently, Phil is working on a GradeII landmark hotel and residential scheme in the Cityof London.

Our panel of architectsare experts in their fieldand have experience ina vast area ofarchitectural designincluding; landscape,public sector and privateresidencies. If you wouldlike to contribute as apanelist email:

[email protected]

give them a commercial or cul-tural edge. This project diet willalso be more exciting to newpractices than to the old guard,which has been spoilt by adecade or more of big new proj-ects. Is this where will the nextgeneration of heroic Britishpractices come from, the Fosters

and Rogers of the future?My New Year’s resolution is toremember that everything ispossible; architects are kids at40 so I’m still a teenager.

DICKON HAYWARDASSOCIATE AT RICHARD HYWELEVANS A AND D LTD

Planning applications are downagain this quarter compared toa year ago. In April reportsannounced a staggering 40 percent drop over the last tax yearcompared to the previous one.It’s a situation that has to give,property prices are bottomingout and cash rich developers –

“Personally, I’m hoping that the ubiquity of the word ‘luxury’ on everyhoarding in London along with ‘designer lifestyle’ will becomesynonymous with the decade that crippled the economy by maxing outthe credit card, and be buried forever among the foundations a brandnew wind farm. ” Dickon Hayward

JACK PRINGLEPARTNER AT PRINGLEBRANDON

Jack studied architecture at theUniversity of Bristol and beganhis career at Powell Moya. Heset up Jack Pringle Architects

in 1981 before founding Pringle Brandon in 1986.Jack has run many successful major fit-out and newbuild projects. He is very experienced in strategic brieftaking and assisting clients in understanding thebenefits of alternative design solutions. Jack is theimmediate past president of the Royal Institute ofBritish Architects (RIBA).


Our industry

experts provide a

compelling insight

into the design

issues surrounding

today’s architecture

THE EXPERTSCONRAD SMITHMANAGING DIRECTOR ATREARDONSMITH

Conrad has practised as anarchitect and interior designerspecialising in the leisure sectorfor over 20 years. He joined

ReardonSmith in 1992 and became ManagingDirector in 1996 since when he has played a key rolein steering the business into new geographic marketsand sectors within the hotel and resort mix. Today,Conrad continues to lead the teams handling some ofour most prestigious and challenging work, both new-build and restoration, in the UK and overseas

yeas there are still some outthere – are eagerly waiting topounce. Meanwhile, the rheto-ric from Tory party HQ seems tobe easing away from the ‘axe allspending’ mantra, giving hopethat when they take over, asthey probably will, there willstill be some form of govern-ment subsidized construction.So perhaps we are finally seeingsome of the fabled green shootsthat have obsessed constructionindustry gossip for the last year.They may just be visible, but Ifear it will be a long and tenta-tive gestation period before weever see the rich fruits of theearly ‘Noughties’ again.Alongside the unemployment,frustrated dreams and down-sized ambitions thatcharacterise a recession, comesalso a desire for change both interms of how architects arework as well as their ambitionsand philosophies as designers.The post war recovery wasmarked by the advent of brutalmodernism as an austere andnecessary remedy to misplacedvillage nostalgia. In turn the1980s saw the birth of brightlycoloured post-modernism asanathema to the dreary mod-ernism that had come torepresent the failings of socialism in the 1970s.So what will the post recession2010s look like? Personally, I’mhoping that the ubiquity of theword ‘luxury’ on every hoardingin London along with ‘designerlifestyle’ will become synony-mous with the decade thatcrippled the economy by max-ing out the credit card, and beburied forever among the foun-dations a brand new wind farm. Secondly, lets hope that gov-ernments now realise PFI is anunachievable long-term strat-egy to construct and managepublic buildings. The creditcrunch has hi-lighted clearlythat the tax payer bore therisks and the private sectormade the money - a more old

fashioned and directly account-able approach to publicspending would be a relief.As to what it looks like, I sus-pect it will get a lot less shinyand a lot more considered.There are a lot of good archi-tects with plenty of time tospend on the next project thatcomes our way, most of themfluent in an abstracted minimalpost-crunch eco-chic – the stylethat will undoubtedly nowbecome prevalent throughoutthe industry.

CONRAD SMITHMANAGING DIRECTOR AT REARDONSMITH

Trends in architectural designduring 2010 and beyond willrevolve around sustainability.At ReardonSmith, we specialisein hotel and resort architectureand, certainly within this sec-tor, the integration of eco-re-sponsible building solutionscontinues to be one of themost thought-provoking ele-ments of our designs. Nextyear, we’ll see a continuationof the underlying objectives ofhotel architecture, which re-main consistent from project-to-project: design thatachieves the optimal asset forthe building’s owner, maxi-mum ease of operations, apleasurable guest experienceand a good working environ-ment for staff. The escalatingtrend in 2010 will be the im-plementation of these goals ina sustainable manner. Drivenprimarily by legislative require-ments, but also by the growingdemand from travellers forecologically-sound practices,ReardonSmith’s challenge willbe to provide creative buildingdesigns that also offer environ-mental and cultural value notjust for the hotel, but also forthe property owners and thelocal community – now and

into the future. Resorts are growing increas-ingly community-focused, withprivate residences as well asshopping, wellness centres,equestrian facilities and up-scale restaurants. Our architec-ture responds to this throughthe inclusion of open, adaptivespaces that can share resourcesin a symbiotic manner. We’vebeen anticipating the demandfor sustainability in new ways –beyond the actual building ma-terials and into methods forminimising the impact of abuilding on the environmentallandscape. One example wherethis has been achieved is ourresort project in the FrenchAlps, in which the new usageplan of the building serves tosupport a longer season thanpreviously considered possible.As local building regulationsrequired the new plan to fitwithin the existing footprint,our design solution was to

carve into the adjacent moun-tain to house the medical spaand large wellness centre, andthus preserve the integrity ofthe surrounding natural envi-ronment. In addition, ofcourse, by remaining open alonger portion of the year withnew on-site services such as res-idential accommodation and aspeciality restaurant, there is ashorter “down time” in whichresources are expended on anunoccupied hotel. In otherwords, we are aiming to pro-vide a resort that satisfies manydemands while being harmo-niously woven into the sur-rounding landscape.Architects are increasingly re-quired to build without dam-

aging the land. ReardonSmithis planning the UK’s first five-star underground hotel, with120 guestrooms, a restaurantand a suite of conference facili-ties. This is not some kind of ar-chitectural conceit on our partbut quite simply the only op-tion, in our judgment, that of-fered a realistic scheme forplanning consent. The site is inLondon’s Green Belt, with cur-rently uninterrupted views overrolling countryside. By buildingjust one storey above groundand the rest below, we intendto create public areas and ter-racing at ground level, al-though fully submerged bygreen roofing, with all otherspaces constructed beneath.This is, in fact, not the first timewe have looked at such a de-sign; the difference now is thatlegislative, business and con-sumer interests are coalescingto the demand for eco-solu-tions that only a few years ago

would have been deemed tooradical by the hotel industry. My architectural New Year’sresolution is to bring backdrawing boards! The quality ofwork that results from hand-drafted drawings is quite dif-ferent from that of CAD;hand-drawing tends to evoke athinking process that leads togreater detail in the solution it-self as well as a drawing that ismore likely to delight and en-gage the client.

“My architectural New Year’s resolution is tobring back drawing boards! The quality ofwork that results from hand-drafted drawingsis quite different from that of CAD. ” Conrad Smith

DICKON HAYWARDASSOCIATE AT RICHARDHYWEL EVANS A AND DLTD

Dickon studied atManchester University andthe Royal College of Art. He

has worked as Project Architect on a wide rangeof projects from large-scale residential andcommercial developments to luxury penthouses,clothing stores and restaurants. Currently, he ismainly working in the hotel and travel sector,building a large marina and hotel developmentin Grenada.

question time


Keymer Tiles have recently completed a projecton a stunning mansion situated on a secludedhilltop in Nashville. Over 90,000 TraditionalRestoration tiles from hand made clay roof tilespecialist, Keymer were used. Nothing providesa roof with greater aesthetics than theTraditional hand made clay tile range frominternationally renowned manufacturer, Keymer– producing tiles that look as good today asthey did 400 years ago, when they were first

made. The Restoration tile gave the Nashvillemansion an aged look that reflected a typical old-fashioned English design, despite the fact that itwas a new construction. The prestigiousTraditional tile range ensures the client’s exactvision is met. To produce the distinguished look –recognised throughout the UK and overseas – theproduction of these clay tiles is 100 per cent handmade, giving every single tile personal attention. For further information visit www.keymer.co.uk

StoSilent, the light and rigid suspended acousticsystem, is specified for use on the new wing of theRoyal Botanic Gardens, Kew. It required a system

Silent acoustics by STO Ltd

Integrity voicealarm brings order

combines a voice alarm system with a high specifica-tion public address system and is incredibly flexible.Consisting of two networked 42U racks, supporting acombination of 331 BS 5839-compliant vandal resist-ant ceiling speakers across 18 separate PA zones, thesystem also includes a custom-paging panel in themain reception and a firefighter’s microphone in themain security control room for the day-to-day man-agement of the site. Fully compliant with BS5839 Part8, BS7827 and BS-EN60849, Integrity’s unique PCsoftware enables a VA/PA system to be designed anddemonstrated prior to purchase. Its capacity for allcause and effect scenarios to be tested and auditionedgives site management unrivalled confidence and con-trol over site evacuation strategies.For further information telephone 0191 417 4551.

SigNET’s powerful Integrity voice alarm/publicaddress system has been installed at a prestigiousCrown Court building in the Borough of Hounslowin London as part of a multi-million pound expansionproject. The existing Court building in Isleworth hasbeen extended to accommodate six new CrownCourts, a development which will increase custodialcapacity and the infrastructure necessary for thecourts to function. The ambitious project called for acomplete overhaul of the life-safety equipment andSigNET’s Integrity was approved for the site. Integrity

contracts and projects


ACO Building Drainage was recently involvedin the design and installation of a complexdrainage solution for Paradise Street, a majorregeneration project in the centre of Liverpool.An effective drainage system was essential toensure the vast walkways spanning the entirelength of South John Street would remove therainwater efficiently and quickly. BuildingServices Consultants WSP Building approachedACO Building Drainage for a workable solu-tion, having collaborated with the drainagespecialist on a number of successful projectspreviously. ACO began to develop a uniquedrainage system, following detailed architecturaldrawings showing where the drainage channelswould be required, as well as working closelywith the WSP and Crown House public healthengineer to ensure compliance with the latestregulations and Client requirements. Takingthese requirements into consideration, ACOoffered a solution that would be effective, safeand pleasing to the eye. The system was pur-pose designed and manufactured, made from316 grade stainless steel and incorporatingproven ACO AS301 drainage channels. For further information telephone 01462816666, email [email protected] visit www.acobuildingdrainage.co.uk.

ACO drainingexpertise

KEYMER GIVES STAR QUALITY TO NASHVILLE MANSION

that would work alongside this challenging design,providing high levels of acoustic absorption andachieving the desired aesthetic appearance. TheStoSilent Panel Robust acoustic system is used inthe vaulted area of the building to create individu-ally designed curved panels, which run the lengthand breadth of the room. These acoustic panelsare fixed to purpose designed metal framing sys-tems, which curve to a 5m radius. StoSilent PanelRobust, with its tough mesh reinforcement is idealfor curved substrates, and provides an impressivelyhigh average acoustic absorption level of 0.70NRC - 0.65 αW (250-2000 Hz). The non- accessi-ble ceiling is slightly suspended because it neededto house the lights, smoke detectors and wiring,whilst the curved panels follow the shape of thevaulted roof. Sto approved installation contractorsBaker Stickland created the original metal workgrid, with a bespoke design that allowed the boardsto be curved and attached to the ceiling. The 32panels, 16 on each side of the ceiling are finishedwith the acoustically transparent coating, StoSilentSuperfine, spray applied in white. For further information telephone 01256 337 602.



Keston Boilers’ unique solvent weld waste pipe fluesystem, coupled with a bespoke rig incorporating aKeston Duet with C55 boiler and 210 cylinder, hasprovided the perfect solution to a lack of heatingand hot water in a large, three-storey Cheshire home.The challenge was to retain cast iron radiators andplace the new boiler and cylinder in a cellar having alow ceiling and accessible only via steep steps withtight corners. The solution was a bespoke rig incor-porating break points in the frame, pipework andwiring so it could be partly dismantled to get it downthe staircase. At the client’s request a twin coil cylin-der was fitted to enable the installation of solarheating at a later date. A black, solvent weld wastepipe flue was run vertically between existing rainwa-ter and soil down-pipes, terminating above the eavesof the house. The flue is self-coloured, eliminating

As one of the largest sport, leisure and enter-tainment companies in Europe, SheffieldInternational Venues (SIV) now operates 14venues in Sheffield alone. This includes theEnglish Institute of Sport, Ponds ForgeInternational Sports Centre and Don ValleyStadium. The nature of these facilities meansthey are open to the public every day of the

Access all areas

Net2 securesmulti-sites

week. Ponds Forge, which boasts an Olympicsized swimming pool, amongst the other greatfacilities, was the first venue to have Net2installed. The system has been gradually rolled outto Don Valley Stadium, Concord Sports Centre,iceSheffield and the English Institute of Sport.Sheffield City Hall is also on the Net2 system, asan SIV-managed facility. Net2 now controls accesson 82 doors for over 1000 users across SIV’s ven-ues. The management of the system is carried outby the security team at Ponds Forge. The systemsare all connected over the existing IT network. For further information telephone 01273 811 011.

Keston’s period heating

Excellent outdoor facilities

the need to paint it to blend in with the exterior ofthe building. An outside temperature sensor was fit-ted to actuate the weather compensating capability,which is a standard feature of all Keston boilers. For further information telephone 0208 4620262or visit www.keston.co.uk

decision was made to employ “Inside2Outside” toprovide a Pocca canopy as part of the works. In-side2Outside quickly arranged for one of their repre-sentatives to visit the school to discuss costs andrequirements. It was quickly evident that the companyhad extensive experience of providing canopies toschools and an appropriate design was chosen whichmet the school’s needs. Inside2Outside provided de-tails of the canopy and arrangements were then put inplace for it to be installed. The resulting canopy hasprovided excellent outdoor facilities, which are usedevery day by the Early Year Foundation pupils. For further information telephone 01480 498297,email [email protected] or visitwww.inside2outside.co.uk

Kader Primary School is located in a residential sub-urb of Middlesbrough and has more than 380 pupils.Although there is a large playing field attached to theschool, its use for curriculum activities often has to berestricted, thanks to the British weather. When theschool decided to extend their building, a key require-ment was to provide an inside/outside teaching andplay area that would not be restricted by poor weather.Extensive discussions were held with the architect andmuch research was undertaken by the school before a

Access Self-Storage Ltd has recently specifiedKnauf AMF’S Thermatex Mercure ceiling tilesfor its new facility in Southampton. 800m2 of the1200 x 600mm square edge tiles have been fittedthroughout the individual storage units, includingthose on all five-mezzanine levels. As a structuralfeature, mezzanine floors require fire protection,which can be provided by a suspended ceilingsystem. BS476 requires that a complete floorassembly, consisting of a suspended ceiling andfloor structure, achieve a minimum of 60 min-utes fire protection. Finding a high quality ceilingsystem is a key factor for customers. S & LUnited Storage Systems Ltd carried out the instal-lation at Access. Knauf AMF’S Thermatex rangeof high density mineral wool ceiling tiles providein excess of 60 minutes fire protection to mezza-nine floors, timber joists and steel beams inaccordance with BS476: Parts 20 to 23.Warrington Fire Research Centre carried out spe-cific tests on AMF Thermatex ceiling tilesinstalled in a fire-rated exposed grid system undera mezzanine floor and found that they gave 90minutes of load-bearing capacity, 89 minutes ofintegrity and 89 minutes of insulation. For further information telephone 02088923216or email [email protected]



With the continued commitment toinvest in schools throughout theUK, South Ayrshire council has usedthe opportunity to replace the roofat Symington School in Ayr with alittle expertise from Sika-Trocal andlocal contractor WM Skinner. Giventhe state of the existing roof, andthe school’s location on the West

Comar Architectural AluminiumSystems and their approved fabrica-tor Alimatic Ltd; have recentlycompleted a full refurbishment proj-ect to provide a whole new buildingenvelope to Collingwood College,Camberley, Surrey. Intensive consul-tations took place as the brief forthis project required Alimatic tospecially design many elements,including the corner panels toensure the smooth installation. Forthe sleek modern façade Comar 6Curtain Walling was specified.Comar 6 curtain walling is a versa-tile thermally efficient systemdesigned to integrate panels andglass of different widths into thefaçade with special profiles toinclude opening vents and doors.For the opening vents, Comar 5P.i.thermally efficient polyamide insu-

Sika-trocal’s schoolingCoast of Scotland, the councilwanted a long lasting and provensolution that could withstand thesevere winds and high levels of rain-fall. With a BBA certification, whichstates a life expectancy in excess of30 years, this was ample proof thatthe Sika-Trocal concept would be aperfect solution for the school.

College gets curtain wallinglated aluminium windows wereinstalled, offering outstandingweather performance and low U-values. Comar 5P.i is a 60mmwindow system that reduces heatloss through the trademark P.i ther-mal break ensuring low U-values soenergy bills are minimised. In a busyeducational environment Comar 7commercial door sets are a naturalchoice. For safety, the Comar 7swing doors were fitted with anti-finger trap stiles, Axim soft touchpanic exit device and Axim con-cealed transom closers, which werehung directly from the Comar 6frame. All aluminium systems werefinished in Hipca White RAL 9910(semi gloss) polyester powder coat. For further information telephone 0208 685 9685 or visit www.comar-alu.co.uk

Leading access hatch manufacturerSurespan Limited is helping toachieve Biomass solutions by manu-facturing access hatches used inBiomass plants. One client who hasrecently benefitted from this is theNational Star College in Cheltenham.Surespan designed and manufacturedtwo hatches for the college’s newBiomass plant. Each hatch measures2800 x 3750mm, can take up to 2.5kN/ m2 loading and has a simpleswitch to operate the 24v DCActuators. Their frames were spe-cially built to incorporate a flashingmechanism which prevents rainwater from getting in. They alsoinclude a motorised safety grid toprotect personnel whilst allowing

wood chippings being delivered, tofall through to the storage unitsbelow. Security being a requirement,a purpose designed interface controlwas provided offering security accessonly for authorised personnel toaccess the fuel stores and deliver thewood chippings. A smaller mainte-nance access hatch to the Biomassstore was also provided along withfour stainless steel ventilators to ven-tilate the biomass store pit. Surespancustom manufactures access hatchesto fit all biomass plants, which arebecoming increasingly popular aspeople move to more sustainable,environmentally friendly heatingalternatives. Wood chip Biomass is alow carbon fuel which is both sus-

tainable and energy efficient.Surespan designs and manufacturesaccess hatches to suit all types ofinternal and external applications.Ranging from FACTA Class A to Floadings, their hatches are available instandard sizes or can be custommade to suit your needs. They also

provide smoke release dampers, rooflights, floor ducting, handrail fittingsand a comprehensive range of lad-ders, which can all be built to order. For further information telephone 01922 711185, [email protected] orvisit www.surespancovers.com,

SURESPAN PROVIDESBIOMASS SOLUTIONS

Completed in spring 2009 by Sika-Trocal licensed contractor WMSkinner, who also acted as main con-tractor for the project, the projectinvolved the installation of 2,000m2

of Sika-Trocal Type S membrane onto the school roof using the Sika-Trocal disc system to help speed upand simplify the installation process.For further information telephone01707 394444 or [email protected].


Signbox signage solutions prove effective at new International Study Centre for University of East Anglia.

NAME: Signbox

PROFESSION: Signage company

PROJECT: INTO University of EastAnglia

BRIEF: Create signage concept forInternational students to leadthroughout the campus.

“The modularsigning systemis a very highqualityextruded engi-neered productthat is bothdurable androbust. It isalso sustain-able due to itsfuture proofdesign. ”

signbox Q&A

Wayfinding and signage com-pany Signbox have worked onsome impressive projects duringtheir company history. Their endsolution is always to the higheststandard and their design con-cepts are nothing short ofinnovative and stylish. Recentprojects have required closework with Architects at theheart of the project to come upwith the clearest solutions foreach project. Wayfinding isincredibly important in publicsector buildings and the projectat the University of East Angliais a perfect example of this.Using clever colour-coding andsimple techniques, the interiorhas been lifted using a verypractical tool.

Bright, stimulating and creative signage now welcomes International

students to the brand new state-of-the-art INTO Centre at theUniversity of East Anglia.The new INTO University of EastAnglia international study centrehas recently opened its doors to anew intake of students who will bestudying pre-university courses andundertaking English languagetraining. The inspiring building,occupying a 1.3 acre site, offers700 teaching spaces and accom-modation for 415 students, andhas been designed to provide asocial, innovative and inspiringenvironment, with the highest lev-els of personal care and support.INTO's communications designteam designed a wayfinding andsignage system that Signbox wasable to interpret and advise oneffective manufacturing methods.The first phase of the project wasthe creation of a vibrant internalsignage scheme: this took priority

A QUEST THROUGH CAMPUS


Signbox

For more information...CONTACT

Signbox Limited

3 Egham Business VillageCrabtree RoadEghamSurreyTW20 8RB

Tel: 01784 438 688Fax: 01784 471 694Email: [email protected]

signbox Q&A

over the external signage due tothe tight timescale leading up tothe official opening. To create a friendly welcome forboth students and staff withinthe atrium area, bright orangeenvironmental graphics are seton a curved wall, displaying theINTO Centre’s logo. The effectembraces the students within acomfortable seating area. So that students can quicklyrecognise the different areas ofthe building and locate whichfloor they are on, a colour codingsystem integrates with the rest ofthe décor used in the building.This was achieved using elementsof the INTO logo in large format,providing a colourful backgroundfor wayfinding decision points.

Floor plans and images were thendigitally printed on the reverse ofacrylic panels, button-fixed withinthe coloured area. In areas where informationchanges on a regular basis,Signbox supplied their ModularSign System, an elegant, robustand flexible solution which fea-tured extruded interchangeablealuminium profiles. To animate internal areas andintroduce a fun element to thesignage, Signbox manufactured toINTO’s designers’ specifications, arange of large format graphicsincluding a knife and fork for thecafe area, and giant graphics tohelp identify the toilets’ locations.Fret-cut lettering is used applieddirectly to walls to supplement themodular signage panel system,identifying facilities and principalareas within the Centre. To meet the tight deadline forthe handover of the buildingfrom the contractor to INTO,Signbox completed the manufac-turing of all the signs withinthree weeks. The second phaseof the project for external sig-nage is now under way and isdue for completion in February.

We asked Signbox a little moreabout the brief, why they werechosen and how accessible thissignage has made the campus.

What were the reasons for Into choosing to work

with Signbox?The tender selection processwas based on an indicative

package of signs , besides cost andquality , Signbox were elected onthe basis of their better under-standing of works and previouseducation experience.

What were the specifica-tions for the project? Into provided a very elegantoverall design and Signbox

contributed to the material speci-fication. Signbox advised how thedesign could encompass themodular signing system toaccommodate the ongoingchanges that occur in educationfacilities with digitally printedacrylics and how to achieve therequired keyplans which wereprovided at all floor levels toensure students could easilyprogress all facilities.

How has the Signboxproduct been successfully

implemented?Detailed formal drawingapproval process and samples

ensured the client was well informed.The appointed Signbox PM attendedsite and checked all sign locationsbefore providing sign location draw-ings for the client’s approval.

Accessibility- how accessi-ble is the campus now?The way finding scheme wasentirely successful, additional

works have only consisted of chang-ing names to major facilities thathave been moved within the facility.

Talk us through the impor-tance of the vibrancy in the

scheme for the college building.Into recognised and stressed that

the decor/ambience was con-sidered pivotal in making the

student ‘offer’ attractive.

How have sustainableproducts been used in

this project?The modular signing system is a

very high quality extrudedengineered product that is

both durable and robust. It isalso sustainable due to its futureproof design.

QA

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bathroom designs


Bristan has extended its value formoney Capri range with the addition ofa manual shower valve with push but-ton diverter. Ideal for the hotel andhospitality sector, the Capri ManualShower with Diverter offers designerlooks at an affordable price. Available

Distinctive raptureThe Abode Rapture range of distinc-tive bathroom taps and showers offersthe very best contemporary styling inthis unique and stunning design.Smooth curves and flat planateexpanses are the very essence of thisproduct range. Cool to the touch andeasy on the eye this Rapture four

Hotel Chic from Bristanas part of Bristan’s Pick n Mix rangeand can be coordinated with showeraccessories and bath spouts. Matchingtaps and mixers are also available. For further information telephone 0844 701 6273 or visit www.bristan.com

The award-winning Selectronicrange of showers from Redringare the most technologicallyadvanced instantaneous showersavailable and exceed the stringentsafety requirements for the caresector, less able and elderly. TheSelectronic and Selectronic Pluscombine thermostatic water tem-perature control withsimple-to-use push button opera-tion. The showers arepre-programmed to provide hotwater at both a comfortable andsafe temperature. In lock mode,the temperature is capped at 40ºCand safety features eliminate acci-dental temperature increase,offering protection against scald-ing. Accredited by the RNIB, theSelectronic range is the only elec-

tric shower to have gained ‘inclu-sive design status’, making it thebest option for the blind, partiallysighted, young children, elderlyand less able. In addition to theRNIB endorsement, theSelectronic range also carries theBEAB CARE mark and meets thestrict criteria of the DisabilityDiscrimination Act (DDA). Keyfeatures of the Selectronic rangeinclude fully thermostatic con-trols, large LED display withaudible feedback, easy one-touchoperation, phased shutdown toreduce scale, whilst ensuring acool-start for the next user andmatt antiglare label backing. For further information tele-phone 01733 456944 or visitwww.redring.co.uk

Showering safe in the knowledge

piece bath filler with shower anddiverter offers the very latest indesign-led styling with low-pressurefunctionality and is ideal for new buildor refurbishment projects. For further information telephone01226 283434 or visitwww.abode.eu

bathroom designs


Impulse Bathrooms is a new force inthe “Complete Bathrooms” market-place. Manufacturing its own suites,baths and brassware, Impulse con-trols the product designs and qualityof the products made. It adopts thehighest of the standards applicableacross the various markets its prod-ucts are sold into around the world.Top quality and high standards are ofthe utmost importance. There are 12plus suites to choose from; contem-porary suites include Intrigue,Odessa, Zeto, Serene, Impala,Tribune, Impact, Monica, Kapello

Pegler Yorkshire Group has revealednew product launches planned forthis year, including a newThermostatic Mixing Valve (TMV)range, backed by millions of poundsof investment in new machinerythroughout the business. The TMV’sare branded under the Prestex nameand manufactured and assembledcompletely in the UK. Improvingdesign and quality have been keydrivers for the new product, whilebasing everything in Doncaster isalso delivering environmental bene-fits too. Over £300,000 worth ofinvestment in new machinery hasgone into the latest part of the facil-

TRY SOMETHING NEWand Radius and traditional suitesHadrian, Genevieve and Rochesterfor those customers looking forsomething to suit a period style. Mostof the suites have multiple options.For example there are 25 WC’s toselect from including wall hung, backto wall, close coupled and close cou-pled back to wall. There are alsomany basin options including vessel,semi recessed, recessed and semipedestal versions. Impulse Bathroomsare also committed to the issue ofsaving water and supporting environ-mental policies and do not just have a

PEGLER INVESTMENTSity dedicated to the manufacture ofTMV’s. This includes spending some£250,000 on new manufacturingequipment and a further £80,000 onnew additions to the testing labora-tory. The performance of theproducts remains as high as ever, butthe Prestex TMV is designed to bemore compact and lightweight. Withless material used in manufacture,the TMV is more environmentallyfriendly than ever before, costingless to produce and transport: inboth money and emissions. For further information 0870 1200 284or visit www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk

A winning combination for wet-rooms, new to the UK after twoyears of development, resolvingthe issue of high quality and value.Maxxus wet floor facilitates level-accessshowering, relieving floor space andoffering mobility with freedom and easyaccess. One of the strongest productsof its kind, Maxxus sustains a 470kgload over 400mm joist centres. Only23mm thick, it reduces installation timeto one hour. No under-boardingrequired. No lease agents to inhibit

bonding of adhesive, tanking or vinyl. The unique Minimax drain, for vinylor tiling, projects only 62mm belowMaxxus, yet flows 48 litres/min. TheMaxxus has the patented NOOD no-odour trap without a water seal, beingwell received by the NHS. BBAapproved, both the Minimax andMaxxus have a 25year warranty. For further information telephone01629 815500, email [email protected] or visitwww.wetroominnovations.com

Maxxus and Minimax byWetroom Innovations

‘token’ water saving eco friendly suite,in fact ten of their WC’s are availablein 4.5/3 litre options proving theircommitment whilst ensuring that styl-ish designs are not forsaken. Sixmodern style baths designed specifi-cally for the UK market complementthe suites range. They all conform torelevant British Standards and areproduced from sanitaryware gradecomposite acrylic sheet, preciselycolour matched to ImpulseBathrooms vitreous china. Designedspecifically for the UK market thereare also five different ranges of brass-ware available from Impulse.For further information visitwww.impulsebathrooms.co.uk


By Graham Fisher

Luxury with a conscienceTM

Graham Fisher is BusinessDevelopment Director for Ecoplay.

Bathrooms and en-suitebedrooms offer a range ofcontemporary and sleek designoptions. But what aboutmeeting the Code forSustainable Homes? Will thisreduce design scope? Byinvesting in innovative micro-renewable technologies, suchas greywater managementsystems, luxurious bathroomscan be created without theneed for compromise, saysGraham Fisher, BusinessDevelopment Director at CMESanitary Systems.

Greywater managementsystems work by recycling thewater used in baths and

showers to flush one or more WCs.It is a simple idea, but a highlyeffective one, considering that thistype of domestic water consumptionaccounts for over 60 per cent oftotal household water usage.

As a result, water consumption,just like energy use, is now apressing environmental issue whenlooking to meet the Code forSustainable Homes. The ‘water’category offers five credits withinthe Code, which is the secondhighest behind the ‘energy/CO2’category and is therefore having apalpable effect on bathroomdesign considerations.

In Britain, we are a long wayaway from becoming a water-efficient nation. It is calculatedthat each person in this countryuses on average 150 litres of waterper day, with over half our water

consumed for domestic use. Ofthis, a surprisingly high percentage– 33 per cent - is used for bathsand showers and 30 per cent forWCs. The benefit of an Ecoplaygreywater management system isthat it targets these applianceswhich are the biggest offenders ofexcessive water consumption andre-uses this water to dramaticallyreduce waste.

Architects should not just beinterested in greywater recyclingfrom a ‘green’ perspective. It hasmany practical benefits too, asthere is no need to restrict productchoice for bathrooms, which mayhave previously been hindered bythe need to reduce waterconsumption down to 105 litresper person, per day, as demandedby CFSH level 3/4.

What a greywater managementsystem means is that water can berecycled, but crucially, without theneed to make sacrifices on theoverall designs of bathrooms andcomfort they provide. It is ablueprint for the development ofother sustainable technologies, asit combines the ideals ofenvironmentalists, with thepragmatic requirements ofdesigners whose primary motive isspecifying high quality products.

For instance, a greywatermanagement system allows fortraditional water-thirsty cisterntoilets to be replaced with morecontemporary options like wallhung toilets. This is because thegrey water tank is boxed into ametal frame, which can be simply

mounted on a wall and thenconcealed from view usingplasterboard.

When it comes to baths,architects do not need to specifyshallower and smaller baths toreduce water consumption. Agreywater management systemcan allow for free standing castiron baths to be fitted into homesto meet high-spec criteria outlinedby clients. Power showers can alsobe used, despite the fact that theyuse around 12 litres of water perminute, because, ultimately, all thiswater is being fed along hiddenpipe work into the greywatermanagement system to be re-usedto flush up to two toilets.

As for the toilet itself, a typicalflush from traditional cistern toiletsuses approximately six litres ofwater. A greywater managementsystem negates the need to usefresh water for each flush byrecycling the high amounts ofwater used in baths and showers.

The beauty of this system is thatthe more a bath and shower isused, the more water is recycledand the more water efficient ahousehold becomes. It is also lowmaintenance and self-cleaning,highlighting it as a user-friendlyrenewable technology.

Rather than forcinghouseholders to use less water,greywater management systems’focus on recycling water, creatinga more sustainable system withoutthe need to compromise on luxuryin the bathroom. ■

luxury with a conscience

Water-efficient high-spec bathrooms no longer a pipe dream.

CLICK ACMAGAZINE.CO.UK TODAY!

THE DAILY NEWSWIRE FOR THE ARCHITECTURE COMMUNITY

acmagazine.co.ukTHE DAILY NEWSWIREFOR ARCHITECTS

• ARCHITECTURE NEWS

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Eleven businesses from the WestMidlands came together to show-case some of the region’s mostinnovative products and servicesfor the building sector at thisyear’s recent Interbuild show, theUK’s largest construction event.From a revolutionary solar PV sys-tem to a wind turbine installed forthis year’s Glastonbury music festi-val, the companies were broughttogether as part of a three-yearprogramme being undertaken bythe West Midlands Centre forConstructing Excellence (WMCCE)and Advantage West Midlands.‘Building on Advantage’, thename of the project, aims to pro-mote the capabilities and specialistexpertise of the region - whichalready represents a turnover of£6 billion and 260,000 jobs in thebuilding technologies sector. Hereare the companies that took part:

The Coleshill SolarTile ® is a revolutionary new ‘plug-in’ inte-grated solar PV systemmanufactured in the UK that canboth contribute to achieving sustain-ability and reduce running costs ofthe home or business. Using proventechnology, it has no moving partsand has a 25 year power outputguarantee. SolarTile® can be easilyinstalled into Marley Modern andsimilar concrete tiled roofs withoutadditional changes or disruptions tothe build program, making it idealfor both refurbishment and newbuild projects.

Sitec Infrastructure Services made headlines earlier this yearwhen it successfully installed one ofthe revolutionary Skyrota 5kW verti-

cal axis wind turbines next to thePyramid Stage at the Glastonburyfestival. The company claimed fur-ther headlines when it completedthe first residential Skyrota installa-tion, which is set to be featured on aforthcoming episode of Channel 4s‘Grand Designs’. Sitec is committedto the development of renewableenergy and was joined on its standby Mr Richard Chadwick, inventor ofthe Skyrota wind turbine.

LED (UK) Ltd designs, develops,and manufactures solid state (lightemitting diode) white power energyefficient lighting for the 21st century.Its products, which are supplied toboth the private and public sector,provide light energy savings of up to80 per cent compared to traditionallighting methods and are non-toxicand completely recyclable.

Hazlin of Ludlow Limited is oneof the UK’s leading manufacturers ofbespoke architectural veneered firedoors, panels and doorsets. Thecompany has a proven record in theeducation, heritage and restorationand healthcare sectors and has sup-plied products for projects such asthe John Radcliffe Hospital, TheQueens Gallery and The RoyalSociety – to name but a few.

Dimart has developed a new steel-armoured cable stripping tool thatcan cut into the outer insulation andthe protective steel strands under-neath, something that until now hasnot been possible for electrical engi-neers. The SACS tool (SteelArmoured Cable Stripper) launchedin November 2009 is the brainchild oflocal electrician Martin Barratt.

The Horne Group, which hasmore than 40 years experience inthe building industry, is launching afully-portable state-of-the-art ultra-sonic leak detector kit that usesdigital technology to identify pre-cisely where water and airpenetrates in buildings andcladdings. The technology can alsobe transferred to boats, motor vehi-cles, aircraft, trains and sealedcomponents.

Filon Products is the first BritishGlass Reinforced Polyester (GRP)sheeting manufacturer to recycle itsGRP back into its product ranges,ensuring its products are fit for thefuture green demands of the indus-try. A supplier to the roofing andcladding industry for more than 50years, the company also recentlylaunched its Fixsafe system, whichenables damaged roof sheets to bereplaced from the underside, signifi-cantly reducing risk to operatives.

HiBar Flood Systems Ltd hasdeveloped a unique new conceptfor flood defence. The HiBar systemis a free-standing, automatic, self-erecting flood barrier that is installedaround the property’s perimeter butunlike other solutions it does notrely upon the structural strength ofthe property and instead uses thefloatation power of the floodwatersthemselves.

W Barratt Contractors Ltd, com-mercial coating specialists, has morethan 21 years of contracting experi-ence and provides a ‘one stop shop’for refurbishments. Specialising inthe public sector including educa-

tion, social services, public buildingsand public areas the company’s cus-tomers also include Slough EstatesGroup, Birmingham Hippodromeand the Highway’s Agency..

smartroof® is a first-of-a-kindinterlocking panel system that,unlike other rooms-in-the-roofproducts on the market, spansfrom gable end to gable end. Acomplete eco-friendly structuraltimber insulated system it createsinstant room space with a com-prehensive back-up infrastructureto support all requirements.

Micklewrights Structures Ltd is afamily-owned steelwork fabricatorthat has been operating for morethan twenty years. The companystarted manufacturing secondarysteelwork for all sectors progress-ing into long-term contacts forpower stations and then the openmarket with numerous builders inthe agricultural, commercial,industrial, leisure and local author-ity sectors. The company recentlycompleted two projects – theChampions Church in Nethertonand bridge-strengthening at thewaterfront near Merry Hill.

For further information, telephoneVictor Tsemo on 0121 688 4050.

Home grown innovation

Coleshill SolarTile®

product news

HiBar floor system


Helping you become upwardly mobile

The Classic Type 50 is a 3-partfolding wooden stairway which,when folded, sits on top of aspring loaded trapdoor. A 2 partsliding model is also available. TheClassic Twinsafe offers a 30minute fire resistant trapdoor.

At Premier, they offer a free serv-ice to help architects, specifiersand contractors choose the rightladder for their specific needs.

All they need to know is:

The floor to underside of ceilingheight (or in the case of a sus-pended ceiling, the floor tounderside of the suspended ceilingtogether with the suspended ceil-ing to underside of the ‘fixedceiling’ height)• The hatch opening length andwidth• The distance from the undersideof the ceiling through to the floorlevel in the loft or wherever• All other relevant dimensions

When deciding on a position forthe ladder, be aware of the likelytouchdown point to ensure safeand easy access. For example,avoid blocking a doorway orclimbing on/off next to a stairway.

For further information telephone0845 9000 195, email [email protected] or visitwww.premierloftladders.co.uk

Premier Loft Ladders2 Dawson DriveTrimley St MaryFelixstoweIP11 0YW

More and more homeownersand commercial businesses areincreasing storage spacethrough the use of mezzaninefloors and the utilisation ofroof space. For homeowners,the loft is an ideal storage solu-tion for both unwanted andwanted items, keeping themout of sight and freeing upspace in the rest of the house.Many businesses use mezza-nine floors for storage andutilise the space afforded byflat roofs to locate such thingsas plant, motor and boilerrooms.

Whatever the application,access is paramount andloft ladders have proved

to be the most practical and con-venient access solution because,unlike fixed stairways, they take upno floor area.At Premier, our ladders are speci-fied by architects and designersthroughout the construction indus-try for use in new buildings andrefurbishments and they lead thefield in the domestic market. Theirproducts, which are available witha host of energy efficient and fireresistant options, include threeconcertina style aluminium loft lad-ders - the Supreme, the Elite andthe Piccolo together with a selec-tion of 3 part folding and 2 partwooden ladders. For CAD draw-ings for most products please visitwww.premierloftladders.co.uk.

Three of our most popular modelsare highlighted below.

The Supreme can be offered withseveral options including a weath-erproof roof hatch, 30 or 90minute fire resistant casings, elec-trical operation and vertical access.

product news


SAFETY FIRSTA Safe, the safety barrier manufacturer is making amove to encourage the Health and Safety Executive(HSE) to legalise increased safety standards forpedestrian and vehicle segregation across the manu-facturing industry. The move will change the law thatcurrently states that road and pedestrian walkwaysshould be demarcated, but this can be interpretedwidely to include physical barrier systems to linespainted on factory floors. A Safe are professionals inproviding pedestrian and vehicle barrier systems, util-ising their highly visible, patented plastic systems. ASafe have produced a product that is tough, durableand can withstand high impacts from factory vehiclesof up to 304KN- this equates to a 3.5 tonne vehiclewith a speed of 10mph causing a head-on impactinto the barrier. Changes to the weight and speed ofthe vehicle can change the impact. For further information telephone 01422 344 402or visit www.asafe.co.uk

By Tim WakeleyTim Wakeley of Premier Loft Ladders promotes the use of loft ladders to gain access indomestic and commercial buildings.

product news


Mereway Kitchens have taken their successful newLincoln range one step further; giving customersunlimited freedom of colour choice to paint theirkitchen cabinet doors whatever colour they like!Lincoln Ready to Paint (RTP) presents this alreadyhugely popular door style in a primed format, openingup endless colour possibilities for showroom displays

Lincoln readyto paint doors

XLS, more than just lighting

and paving the way for consumers to be as creativewith colour as they wish. The hugely popular NewLincoln range features a solid timber shaker style doorin a warm Oak finish and features a veneered centrepanel with a distinctive lively grain. The new RTPdoors are ready primed for consumers to splash ontheir colour choices using any leading brand paint. Toaccompany Oak and RTP are a collection of five pre-painted pastel Ash doors launched earlier this year, thatcome in popular tones chalk white, pebble blue, willowgreen, pantry cream, and fennel green. For further information telephone 0121 706 7844or visit www.merewaykitchens.co.uk.

Kingfisher Lighting introduces the XLS, an expresslighting solution for exterior lighting projects. A brandnew catalogue and innovative e-catalogue is availableonline at www.expresslightingsolutions.com, providingessential details of all of the lighting ranges and asso-ciated columns and brackets. Given the importancebeing placed on sustainable building design KingfisherLighting have certainly made it easier for you tochoose energy efficient lighting. All of the featuredlighting ranges include relevant information to illus-trate their compliance with BREEAM, a code ofpractice aimed at encouraging sustainable building de-sign. A practical product selector provides at a glanceguide to the ranges on offer. The project gallerydemonstrates the versatility of the range and providesa useful reference of the products in situ. Many of thefamiliar lighting ranges such as Evoluta, Sloane andKaos are still included. In addition to a full compli-ment of exterior lighting, XLS will also feature indus-trial lighting with a defined range of Highbayluminaires and T5/T8 based non-corrosive luminairessuitable to a wide range of applications. For further information, telephone 01623 415915.

Granite Transformations’ agglomerate surfacing isspecified for diverse commercial installationsaround the globe. Now, the manufacturer’s Kent-based UK head office is keen to extend itsarchitectural use over here. GraniteTransformations’ material has a distinctive manu-facturing process, making it much lighter andslimmer without sacrificing strength, and it offers anumber of unique benefits to architects, specifiers,interior designers, developers and builders.Composed of around 95 per cent natural materialblended with a high performance polymer resin, itis offered in a choice of granite, quartz, recycledglass and mosaic materials, each with its own dis-tinctive aesthetics. Many installations can be carriedout by factory-trained fitters in a single day, min-imising downtime and enabling overnight fit-outs.The agglomerate material’s light weight, slim pro-file, inherent flexibility, technical performance anda palette of more than 60 colours and patterns,make it a strong choice for new-build projects, forboth horizontal and vertical applications. ASTMtested and UNI ES IS0 certificated for heat,impact, scratch and stain resistance, GraniteTransformations’ surfaces are tough enough towithstand the consistent wear and tear associatedwith commercial buildings and domestic locations. For further information telephone 08700 427 450or visit www.granitetransformations.co.uk

AKW Launch Doc M Pack

wall mounted washbasin, raised height WC and theAKW exclusive natural grip grab rail. Two very uniquefeatures to the range consist of the easy operationalspatula flush handle which offers water saving dualflush operation; along with the ergonomic soft closetoilet seat which is a benefit rarely featured on othersimilar products. Many items are also available in highvisibility blue for visually impaired. Providing superi-ority of service and next working day delivery, AKW’sproducts are at the forefront of delivery to meet thedemands of more accessible living. For further information telephone 01905 823298 or visit www.akw-medicare.co.uk

As a leading provider of specialist showering,kitchen and daily living solutions AKW MediCareare continually developing new products. The recentaddition is the new extensive Doc M range availableto purchase in a number of formats. Offered eitheras a standard pack or fully compliant (withBS8300:2009), there is also the opportunity to pur-chase items individually. Items include a 2tap hole

Superior interior surfaces

FEIN is presenting the new compact angle grindersfrom the WS 14 series. These angle grinders forindustry and trade applications are extremely robust,high-performing, practical and safe. Compact FEINgrinders for metalworking are available in differentequipment variants, offering individual solutions forprofessional users in industry and manual trades. Themanufacturer is presenting two new series: anglegrinder models with a classic on/off switch andangle grinders with a special safety package. To make

Reliability and safety in metalworking

Solar shading - toinfiniti and beyond

sleek appearance and weighs up to 30 per cent less.The system also boasts an extremely strong and reli-able fixing method, which has been tested well inexcess of the loads likely to be applied and has beenengineered to accommodate thermal expansion. For further information visit www.levolux.com. Levolux has challenged the laws of physics with its

new Infiniti Fin® solar shading system. This ground-breaking innovation in solar shading provides a uniqueaesthetic of continuous, fixed aerofoil fins with con-cealed, stainless steel fixings. The Infiniti Fin® systemis the latest addition to the range of solar shading sys-tems available from Levolux and features a unique,patented integral stainless steel locking plate, concealedwithin an extruded aluminium Aerofoil Fin or section.The innovative design allows the maximum possiblespan capability with the minimum visual footprint andallows Aerofoil Fins to be cantilevered to overhangpast the carrier arm without the need for end plates.The development of the new Infiniti Fin® system wasa natural evolution. Levolux strives to push the bound-aries of design, to engineer new solutions that candeliver real benefits to architects and developers. TheInfiniti Fin® system is the only such system with con-cealed, integrated fixings and makes it possible tocreate continuous clean lines, without compromisingon structural integrity. The Infiniti Fin® system has a

product news


BASF has launched its new Crystal SpeedHardening™ concept for contractors and precast pro-ducers. The core product of the concept is X-SEED®

100, a unique hardening accelerator. It helps to speedup concrete hardening significantly at early ages (6-12hours), supporting at least double strength at low,ambient and heat curing temperatures. In contrast totraditional acceleration methods such as heat applica-tion or normal accelerators, X-SEED® 100 does notinterfere adversely with the final engineering properties

of the concrete. In addition, it helps to save time and hasa positive impact on energy efficiency, offering an attrac-tive overall cost saving potential. X-SEED 100 consistsof synthetically produced crystal seeds in liquid form,which boosts the hardening properties of the concretemix. It improves the quality of the hardened cementpaste and provides durability benefits. A video illustratingthe properties of the new accelerator is available at www.construction-chemicals.basf.com/x-seed. For further information visit www.basf.com

CRYSTAL CLEAR CONCEPT

The newest product to be launched byEverbuild is Exact Gap Minimal ExpandingFoam. Featured heavily in the new Everbuildcatalogue, Exact Gap Foam does exactly as itsname suggests; it fills gaps exactly. There is anongoing demand for foam with minimalexpansion which has been fuelled by localauthorities keen to reduce the amount ofexcess foam that is cut off once cured, andthat inevitably gets blown away in the wind,causing litter. There is also the additionalproblem of the excess foam damaging /staining the surrounding substrates. Thereforethe launch of Exact Gap Foam, exactly meetsthis demand in the market place. Due to thecontrolled application of the product, thefoam itself only expands around 5-10 percent more than the bead that is extrudedfrom the nozzle, therefore reducing themountains of excess foam! It is also the idealproduct to use where it is important not toimpact too much stress onto the item beinginstalled. For further information telephone0113 240 2424.

Expandingtheir portfolio

sure FEIN WS 14 angle grinders last a long time, themotor and gear head form a single stable unit. Thefield coil and armature are fitted so as to preventthem twisting. The low-maintenance high-powermotor delivers high torque levels and can withstandpermanent loads up to 1800 watts so the disc is notdamaged during operation. The very ergonomicshape, enables fatigue-free working with little efforteven in tough continual use. All FEIN compact anglegrinders are equipped with soft start and restart lock.The safety angle grinders featuring the TipStart func-tion with AutoStop, developed and patented byFEIN, are very safe and comfortable to use. For further information telephone 01327 308730or email [email protected]

product news


Climaboard skirting board heating systems areideal where a low surface temperature is requiredfor safety reasons. Powerful enough to work withlow energy systems such as heat pumps and solartubes, the system can be used for quite large roomswithout running out of wall space as can oftenhappen with less efficient systems. The cleverdesign ensures that all 15mm pipework, connectorsand valves are safely concealed within the skirtingprofile so that the system when properly installedcomplies with NHS Estates Health GuidanceNotes 1998 which stipulates that the surface tem-perature should be less than 43 degrees C withinlet water at 83 degrees C. Compliance with thisrequirement has been verified by independent testscarried out on behalf of the company Frog srl,official producer of Climaboard skirting boardheating system. The Climaboard system is highlyefficient as the skirting distributes heat very evenlyaround a room, allowing it to be heated at approxi-mately 30 per cent lower input water temperatureto achieve the same feeling of comfort as a com-parable radiator system. For further information telephone 020 8144 9597or visit http://www.skirting-heating.com

TAKING THE LEAD WITH DRAKADraka is an international cable man-ufacturer with a turnover of twobillion Euros and 9,000 employees.As part of the Energy andInfrastructure division of DrakaHolding NV, they are a leading UKsupplier of halogen free, lowsmokefire performance cables, power cablesand building wires. Draka claims tohave become the only cable manufac-turer in the UK to be able to offerinstallers a full range of third-partyapproved SWA [Steel WireArmoured] power cables down to4mm2. The newly enhanced LPCB[Loss Prevention Certification Board]approved 600/1000V FiretufPowerplus cable offering is availablein two, three and four-core optionswith nominal conductor areas span-ning from 4mm2 to 400mm2. Therange also includes a 2.5mm2 seven-core cable. Firetuf Powerplus is

Safe skirting heating

designed to provide enhanced circuitintegrity performance to meet thedemanding requirements of BS 7346-6: 2005 (Components for smoke andheat control systems: specificationsfor cable systems). It incorporateshigh-performance materials to achievethe maximum 120-minute rating whensubjected to the integrated testing ofBS 8491: 2008 (Method for assess-ment of fire integrity of largediameter power cables for use as com-ponents for smoke and heat controlsystems and certain other active firesafety systems). This demandingregime involves flame irradiationexposure, direct impact and high-pressure water spray testing. For further information telephone 01332 345431, email [email protected] or visit www.drakauk.com.

product news


The Series 200 Advanced has been recentlylaunched by System Sensor Europe. This newproduct offers substantial cost savings forinstallers, enhanced configurability, improvedmanagement and control for fire systems integra-tors. Outstanding detection performance and falsealarm immunity for end users are also big benefitsof this product. The Series 200 Advanced is insupport of the previous systems used; the newgeneration maintains full electrical and mechanicalbackwards compatibility with previous versions. Italso consists of six new fire detectors: three heatdetectors (58 and 78 degree fixed temperature rateof rise) ; optical smoke; photo-thermal multi-sen-sor and the PTIR detector. The Star. For further information visit www.systemsensor.com

Advanced alarms

Liquid Plastics, pioneer of cold applied roofingsystems, has launched its Decotherm pre-mitredtapered insulation as part of the Cold FusionBonded Built-Up Roof System. Waste on site canbe reduced by up to 50 per cent using pre-mitredboards, which also helps to lower waste disposalcosts as there are no off-cuts. In addition, this

Schüco International GB is augmenting itsrecently launched range of ADS aluminiumdoors by the addition of a new ADS fire-resistant glazed door and wall unit range.Designed with an outer frame depth of80mm and flush vent sections, the doors andunits are available in two types, ADS 80 FR30 offering 30-minute integrity and insulation(E130) and ADS 80 FR 60 offering 60-minuteprotection (E160). Equally suitable for inter-nal and external applications, both versionsof the Schüco ADS fire-resistant door aremade from identical aluminium profiles andto achieve its higher rating, ADS 80 FR 60includes special additional insulating material.Architects will welcome the fact that whatevertheir rating, all ADS fire-resistant doors canhave the same narrow outer frame/vent sightline of 137mm. The doors may be specifiedwith face-fitted or barrel hinges and basic orsecurity locking options (up to Class 3 ofENV 1627) while standard hardware availableincludes panic exit fittings. For further information telephone 01908282111 or visit www.schueco.co.uk

Less waste, more speed

helps to minimise the environmental impact of theproject and allows for quicker installation – ultimatelyalso reducing labour costs. The Cold Fusion BondedBuilt-Up Roof System provides a zero flame, zeroheat roofing solution with a liquid applied Decothanewaterproof membrane and guarantees of up to 25years. And now with the pre-mitred tapered insula-tion, installation just got even easier. Liquid Plastics’Decotherm PIR tapered insulation is available in1:60, 1:80, and 1:120 falls providing a full range ofoptions for all types of flat roofs.For further information telephone 01772 255022 or visit www.liquidplastics.co.uk.

Dickies (UK) Limited, one of the country’s lead-ing manufacturers and suppliers of safety andprotective work wear helps you to look good andkeep out the cold with their comfortable and prac-tical, Eisenhower Parka Jacket. (Code No:EH60200). Made from Oxford Polyester with aPVC coating, stitched and taped seams and a280gsm microfleece and quilted nylon, the jacketprovides superb weather protection; featuresinclude a strong main plastic zip with a stud fas-tened storm flap, elasticated sleeve cuffs withVelcro tab adjusters and an internal, elasticateddrawcord waist adjuster, for maximum comfort.Keeping everything safe and dry and immediatelyto hand are Velcro flap fastened, chest pocketswith reflective piping, spacious lower pockets, aninside pocket and one for a mobile phone.Available in sizes M, L, XL and XXL and a colourchoice of either Navy or Olive with black trim.For further information visitwww.dickiesworkwear.com

Dickies pukka parka

Pendle is the latest ‘British made’ handcrafted, singlebowl fireclay sink with original weir overflow fromShaws of Darwen. It is manufactured in a lighter-weight fireclay with finer lines for those seeking acombination of contemporary design and traditionalhand-built quality. Pendle is created from the greatdesign lines of the original Shaws Classic Belfast sink.It has slimmer walls and comes complete with a 1½”waste outlet to accommodate a slotted waste, weighs45kg and is available in the popular and traditional,white and biscuit finishes. The tap featured is theHelmshore Monobloc in chrome from the exclusiverange of traditional style taps from Shaws. For further information telephone 01254 775111or visit www.shawsofdarwen.com

The Pendle New ADS door range

products news


One of the latest façade systems fromKingspan Insulated Panels, which combines allthe benefits of insulated panel constructionwith the beauty of a durable natural woodveneer, is bringing a touch of luxury to a newcommunity facility in Newcastle upon Tyne. Inpartnership with Prodema, Kingspan has pro-duced and is the sole supplier of the KingspanWoodTherm complete wall and façade system.The system’s strong, pleasing finish is sup-

ported by built-in regulation compliant insulation,making it suitable both practically and aestheti-cally for a whole range of buildings. KingspanWoodTherm can only be installed as a secret fixsystem, which allows a smooth façade with allpanel fasteners hidden from view. As with allKingspan systems, the cladding is extremely fastand simple to install, reducing build times.. For further information telephone 01352 717251or email [email protected]

Hochiki has extended its FIRElink high-sensitivitysmoke detection offering with the introduction ofFIRElink-Nano. It incorporates advanced semi-conductor laser and electronics technology into apackage that shows substantial savings in whole-life cost when compared with other systems on themarket. The new FIRElink-Nano is a single-pipesystem with a sampling pipe length for still air of50 metres, with either two, six or ten samplingholes, depending on whether the fire risk is ClassA, Class B or Class C. It comes as an extremelycompact, low cost and easy to install package thatuses what is called Perceptive ArtificialIntelligence. This ensures that it operates con-stantly at optimum sensitivity for the particularprotected environment, without having to resort tocomplicated and expensive setting up. The systemconfigures itself to provide the high sensitivityrequired for a “clean” environment.For further information 01634 266 566, email at [email protected] or visit www.hochikieurope.com.

Firelink Nano detection

Aquasonic revealTyco Fire Suppression & Building Products hasunveiled its new ANSUL® AQUASONIC™ firesuppression system that is aimed at Class B firesthat involve flammable liquids such as petrol,diesel, solvents, lubricants and spirits. The newsystem utilises non-toxic and readily availableextinguishing media – water and nitrogen. AQUA-SONIC is specifically engineered to cover a widespectrum of special-hazard industrial and com-mercial applications in defined-area protectedspaces. The key to the effectiveness of the systemis the patented AQUASONIC atomizer nozzle. Ituses what is described as “supersonic” technologyto break down water particles into trillions ofsmaller droplets that are uniform in size. As thesedroplets reach their target they extract heat fromthe fire and suppress it. Significantly, the AQUA-SONIC system uses one-third of the water ofcomparable high-pressure water-mist systems,produces a higher volume of smaller waterdroplets than traditional watermist solutions, andprojects them farther across the combustion zonethan was possible with previous technology. For further information telephone 0161 8750402, email [email protected] or visit www.tyco-fsbp.com

Revolutionarymanagement toolSimeio™ the ground-breaking site personnelmanagement tool, that will revolutionise theconstruction industry, has announced thelaunch of the first truly mobile site personnelmanagement system designed to manage on-site attendance and Health and Safetyinformation, in real-time. The Simeio handsetis a rugged and truly mobile device that uses acombination of finger print scanning, elec-tronic signature and mobile GPS technologyto verify a person’s identity and location.This removes the opportunity for data manip-ulation whilst ensuring that all people on aparticular site have agreed to the site rulesincluding, if relevant, acknowledging that theyhave the correct Personal ProtectiveEquipment (PPE). This information can beaccessed in real-time, 24/7, by appropriatepersonnel using the secure Simeio web portal.Introducing Simeio onto a site makes sitemanagement much more efficient. TheSimeio handset operates like a mobile phonecontract with no capital expenditure required,making it an accessible and affordable solu-tion for use by small building companiesthrough to large contractors. For further information telephone 0845474 6346 or email [email protected]

A TOUCH OF LUXURY

product news


The eco-friendly headquarters building of archi-tects Watson Batty in Guiseley, Leeds, employs alighting scheme comprising a variety of energy-efficient luminaires from Cooper Lighting. Forthe lighting scheme, the firm of architects recog-nised the importance of minimising energyconsumption while at the same time creating awell-lit working environment, and different lumi-naires were selected according to therequirements of each individual area. Because thebuilding utilises a geothermal heating and coolingsystem, there are no conventional suspended ceil-ings, so it was decided that the main open-planoffices would be illuminated by Cooper’sCrompton Synthesis range of suspended fluores-cent luminaires. These attractively styledluminaires aid compliance with the CIBSE LG7

From strengthto Strength

Energy-Efficient Lighting from Cooper

guide by providing the requisite balanced lightingusing a wide-distribution lens for uniformupward illumination, combined with a choice oflouvres for direct downward illumination. Inaddition, Synthesis luminaires use twin T5 lamps(28W or 35W) and high-frequency control gear tomaximise energy efficiency.Featuring an elegantlycurved, slim-line profile that measures only66mm in depth, Synthesis luminaires are con-structed from extruded aluminium with a choiceof finishes. They are supplied with two 1.5m-longyoked suspension wires, which are easily adjustedto length by means of an ingenious yet simpleclutch mechanism. For further information visit www.cooper-ls.com.

In January 2009, AccentHansen re-intro-duced the improved FYRESPAN™ productrange to the market under the new nameGlazeShield™ FL. Taking on the glass firedoor, previously sold by anotherHansenGroup company was a bold step forAccentHansen, moving away from their tra-ditional strength of steel doorsets in achallenging market. The risk has paid offand since the launch of GlazeShield™ FL,both sales and enquiries have been booming.Mark Mallen, Managing Director,AccentHansen, commented, “We took onthe FYRESPAN product as we knew therewas still demand for it in the market placeand it complemented our existing steel firedoorset products well. We made it our ownby adding a few features and makingimprovements and are excited to see thereaction from customers. From a standingstart we are doing better than we could havehoped for.” As a result of the company’ssuccess with GlazeShield FL, AccentHansenlaunched two additional glass door productsin September 2009; AlGlaze™ is a glass doorwith extremely thin aluminium profiles andClearGlaze™ is the only totally framelessdouble glazed door on the market. For further information visitwww.accenthansen.co.uk

product news


Leading specialist in drainage sys-tems and corrosion resistant buildingproducts, ACO Building Drainage,has recently launched their latestrange of Wetroom drainage solu-tions, which have been specificallydesigned to eliminate design risk,reduce costs and provide exceptionalfinish and performance. As part of

This year Danfoss is launching anadvent calendar on their website,www.danfoss-randall.co.uk, wherevisitors can win prizes by answeringquestions on energy-efficient heatingsolutions. CO2-emissions and globalwarming might put a definitive endto a white Christmas in large partsof Europe in years to come. Andthis would also mean a definitivegoodbye to snowmen, sleighing andother traditional family entertain-ment during the winter months. Thesavings potential in the cold wintermonths is considerable, both when itcomes to the environment and toheating bills; for instance byinstalling new radiator thermostats

Specialist wetroom drainage installation

A GREEN CHRISTMAS WISHor chrono-proportional room ther-mostats. Every day from December1st and until Christmas Eve, visitorsto the Danfoss website will have thechance to win some great prizes,such as hampers, games consoles,wine, iPods, digital cameras, cam-corders and supermarket vouchers.Entry is straightforward and freeand all answers to questions can tobe found somewhere on the website.Correctly answered entries will beput into a random draw and a win-ner will be picked for each day.Winners will be notified by e-mailand prizes will be sent immediately.For further information visitwww.danfoss-randall.co.uk

ECO® by CosentinoThe National SanitationFoundation (NSF), has certifiedECO® by Cosentino as a safe mate-rial for direct contact with any kindof food and liquid. With this certi-fication ECO® by Cosentino isindustry approved for installationsin commercial projects includinghospitals, schools, restaurants andhotels. Composed of 75 per centrecycled raw materials, includingmirrors, glass, porcelain and crys-tallised ashes, ECO® by Cosentinois a revolutionary new decorativerecycled surface available in anarray of beautiful colours.Achieved through state-of-the-arttechnology, the worktops areextremely durable with a high stain,

scratch and scorch resistance andunlike more traditional materials,they are non-porous and do notrequire sealing. ECO® byCosentino is composed of 75 percent post-industrial and post-con-sumer recycled raw material,including: mirrors salvaged fromhouses; glass from windows andbottles; granulated glass from con-sumer recycling practices; porcelainfrom china, tiles, sinks and decora-tive elements; and industrialfurnace residuals from factories inthe form of crystallised ashes.For further information telephone08700 118 788 or visitwww.ecobycosentino.com or www.cosentinogroup.net

the range ACO Building Drainagehas included shower drain channeland gully systems, which makedesigning and installing a luxuryWetroom simple and affordable. Thepopularity in Wetroom applicationsin the home and in commercialspaces has evolved because of theirmany benefits including efficiency

and cleanliness. Effective drainage isessential to a successful Wetroomand ACO’s latest innovation providessafety of use, simplicity of installa-tion and a discreet system. Theproduct also has a long service lifeand is a reliable performer. ACOBuilding Drainage is a division ofACO Technologies plc that spe-cialises in drainage systems andbuilding products manufacturedfrom corrosion resistant materials.For further information telephone01462 816666, email [email protected] or visitwww.acobuildingdrainage.co.uk


By Tim Lobb

A different perspective on the landscape.

The lastWORD

�

TPL’s Carya GolfClub, Turkey, wasranked in GolfWorld magazine’sTop 100 Courses inContinentalEurope and isamong TPL’sportfolio ofupmarket projectsin Europe, theMiddle East andAsia. TPL hasoffices in the UK,China andAustralia.

Picture is of CaryaGolf Club, Turkey.PhotographyCredits: ThompsonPerrett & Lobb

Tim Lobb is a Principal ofThomson Perrett & Lobb, thegolf course design practicefounded by five-times OpenChampion Peter Thomson andAustralian architect Ross Perrett.

There has been significant change ingolf course architecture in the past 20years. While much of the golfconstruction boom of the 1980s and1990s was driven by demand for privategolf clubs – similar to the original golfboom of the late 19th century – recentdevelopment has been driven bytourism, hotels and real estate.

Today, the golf course designbusiness is effectively divided intotwo – creating golf courses for

resorts and new communities,predominantly overseas in emerging anddeveloping markets such as the MiddleEast and Asia, while also returning to theestablished and classic courses that nowrequire upgrading and modernising.

While the golf course architect wasonce simply given a piece of land on whichto design a course, our role has changedconsiderably and the importance of a highquality golf course design is crucial in themarketing of a development. It also meanswe are now part of the design team for adevelopment, working closely with otheragencies including masterplanners and theclubhouse architect.

In practical terms, more land is nowrequired for golf courses, not just as aconsequence of modern golf ballstravelling further, but increased safetyareas and buffer zones between the golfcourse and its housing or resort facilities.The demand from developers – and thechallenge facing architects – has been tomaintain the traditional, enjoyablegolfing experience in a broader, man-made landscape. Some developmentsachieve this successfully, however thereare also stories of indiscriminate designand environmental vandalism that hastainted the industry.

The greatest golf courses, in our view,are those that blend into their natural

landscape and use resources in asustainable way. While grass requireswater, and irrigation systems aresignificantly more efficient than they usedto be, we take great pains to limit thegrassed areas of our golf courses to tees,fairways and greens, leaving scrub andsand as an integral part of the challenge,where appropriate.

At Carya Golf Club in Turkey, we haveintegrated indigenous heather into ourdesign to create a heathland-style coursethat is in keeping with the sandy soil andsurrounding pine forest. To supplementthe naturally occurring heather, more thanone million heather plants have beenpropagated on site in glasshouses andplanted out, creating a natural and uniquecourse. This is in contrast to the typicalresort courses that neighbour the property,whose expansive, grassy courses largelylook the same and are out of context withtheir surroundings.

At the other end of the spectrum, manyestablished and historical courses nowrequire upgrading and modernising. Weare currently working at The Berkshire GolfClub, ranked among the Top 100 Coursesin the UK and a natural heathland gem.The golf course is a living organism thatchanges over time and, at The Berkshire,we are undertaking an audit of the coursereviewing what has changed over the past80 years and providing a road map for thenext 80 years.

Restoring an old building and restoringan old golf course is similar in that you aretrying to find the original design detail andmaintain its integrity.

Whether we are creating a new golfcourse or upgrading an old classic, thechallenge is to create something that ispart of its landscape, is sustainable and isenjoyed by golfers – achieve this and thebusiness aspect takes care of itself. ■

the last word

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