Refurb & Restore - Issue 33 2023

& RESTORE REFURB

THE RED CHURCH

CELEBRATES A GLORIOUS COMEBACK IN OLOMOUC

AUTUMN/WINTER KITCHEN TRENDS

RECONSTRUCTION OF THE FORMER INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL

specialise in leaflet distribution, direct mail, & door drops

Communicating with local residents and businesses both at the planning stage through to the various phases of a build will go a long way in developing positive relationships in the community and avoiding potential delays.

Letterbox offers design, print, direct mail, door drop, static handouts, and installation of posters and display boards to ensure your Public Consultation engages Stakeholders and the Public.

With 36 years’ experience in delivering for Architects, Planners, Developers, Builders, Utilities, and the Construction Industry you know you are in safe hands with Letterbox.

Refurbishment & Restore Our Team

Editor-in-Chief

Antony Holter

T: 01304 806039

E: editor@mhmagazine.co.uk

Editorial Manager

Claire Morgan

T: 01304 806039

E: claire@refurbandrestore.co.uk

Editorial Manager

Chris Nicholls

T: 0203 9079161

E: chris@refurbandrestore.co.uk

Sales Director

Amy Wright

T: 01227 392575

E: amy@refurbandrestoremag.co.uk

Sales Manager

Richard Pownall

E: Richardpownall@mhmagazine.co.uk

Business Manager

Josh Holmes

T: 01304 806039

E: josh@mhmagazine.co.uk

Publishing Director

Martin Holmes

T: 01304 806039

E: martin@mhmagazine.co.uk

Accounts

Lauren Marchant

T: 01304 806039

E: lauren@mhmagazine.co.uk

Highlights

FORMER CERAMICS FACTORY

Conversion of Plaster Mould Warehouse and Sorting Plant

The project deals with the second stage of the conversion of the former ceramics factory in Kravsko. The original Baroque complex was built as an inn on the Prague-Vienna route. In the second half of the 19th century, it was transformed into a famous ceramics factory and expanded with new buildings. The production operated here for a hundred years. Soon, however, it met the fate of many other obsolete industrial plantsproduction was closed down, the area changed hands and fell into long-term disrepair. The current owners, who come from Kravsko, are redeveloping the site for social events and adventure tourism.

Authenticity. This is what we strive for.

FACTORY Welcome

The main landmark of the site, visible from a great distance, is the factory chimney. A neon circle is placed on the chimney, crowning it and naturally drawing the visitor towards it.

The part of the original factory next to the chimney is now used as a reception area and staff facilities. The building is entered via a ramp made of coloured concrete. The axes of the site originally faced in a different direction, but for operational and ownership reasons it was no longer possible to follow them. The current entrance is the former back of the site, so it was necessary to create a new distinctive attractor that catches the visitor’s attention at first sight. The ramp and staircase welcome visitors and naturally guide them to enter.

The reception area is where the mixing of the clay used to take place. The discontinued mixers are being left in their original positions as they were once abandoned. We leave the whole space with its industrial character. Along one of the walls, we are creating an installation from plaster moulds into which pots were cast. Here the moulds are stacked in columns and left only as aesthetic objects that have lost their meaning but are still beautiful. It’s a way of keeping them in place and not getting rid of them.

THE PLASTER MOULD WAREHOUSE Construction

It is an original utilitarian warehouse of plaster molds. The building has a 1:8 elongated floor plan on three floors. The vaulted cellars are recessed into the hillside to the south. The ground floor is brick, the second floor is timber-framed. The masonry is partly built from old plaster moulds that were used for casting ceramics. This material is not suitable for building at all. It is proof that throughout history people recycled and built with whatever was at hand.

Conversion

Conversion of buildings for a new purpose requires a greater degree of intervention than simple refurbishment. The project addresses the conversion of a former warehouse into an accommodation facility. The elongated shape allowed the layout to be chopped up into individual rooms like a salami. Due to the narrowness of the house of less than 6 metres, it was not possible

to build a corridor inside. Particularly on the second floor, this would have meant a significant impact on the preserved wooden frames. Therefore, we decided to design a separate gallery that serves as a corridor for the upper rooms and creates a desirable threshold on the south side thanks to the dense lathing. The gallery/porch is constructed of second-quality oak lumber, which was originally intended to serve as firewood.

The rooms on the ground floor are accessible directly from the porch. To the north, the steel frames of the former factory windows have been retained. The new windows are behind them. The frames form a grille that acts as a barrier against falling, as the windows have a low sill. At the same time, the openings retain their original divisions. The whole building is wavy due to the pressure of the earth. We have added some support pillars to the north façade to stabilise it. However, in the rooms on the ground floor, you can read a significant leaning of the walls until one has to hold on to keep from tipping.

We were keen to preserve the authenticity of the building as much as possible, which forced us to insulate the inside of the building on the second floor. This left the original wooden, dusty façade in place, which, surprisingly, is still in good shape. The house has therefore not changed much in terms of expression. We kept the trusses in their structural logic. The eastern gable of the building has undergone the most significant transformation, as it is entirely glazed and thus provides distant views over the landscape.

Interior

The rooms on the ground floor are simple bright spaces. The bathrooms are separated by steel frames with frosted glazing, making them well lit.

The upstairs rooms are given authenticity by the exposed beams and original boards, which have been dismantled and used as new flooring.

All this is complemented by plaster moulds which are used as tables, lampshades or purely as objects of aesthetic interest. The moulds that were originally stored here, therefore, remain in place in reduced numbers.

SORTING PLANT

The building of the former sorting plant is the youngest of the whole complex. It dates back to the middle of the last century. Historically, it is the least valuable building, but it is still a fine example of industrial construction at that time, which was purely purposebuilt. Even then, building materials were recycled during construction. Here we have followed a conventional design approach.

Space For Celebration

Industrial buildings are ideally transformed for holding social events. With their open layout, they offer a versatile space that can be filled with events.

The building now houses a restaurant with a kitchen on the ground floor. Adjacent to the restaurant is the greenhouse, which is a simple steel structure that we removed and replaced the roofing with glass. The attic space is accessed by a heavy steel welded staircase, which in turn functions as an art object in its own right. In the attic, there is a large hall to which we have retained its authenticity. All the structures are original with traces of age-old wear and tear.

www.o-r-a.cz

Conversion of buildings for a new purpose requires a greater degree of intervention than simple refurbishment.

IMAGE IS EVERYTHING AT SPIRAL COLOUR

There is no better way of expressing your Company’s image than through highly impactful graphics and print. Spiral Colour have been at the forefront of making businesses ‘look the business’ for over 35 years. With state of the art technology in-house, a friendly and personal service and a reputation for best value, Spiral is a favourite supplier for small and large customers all over the UK. But what makes Spiral stand out is our ability to provide a solution for every branding situation.

We do the simple things extremely well but we also do the difficult ones equally well – so when a customer has a tricky project to complete we will find a solution and go out of our way to do so if necessary. Our service is full end to end, starting with concept and finishing with on-site installation or anything in between

We offer a full range of print solutionsdigital print services which are ideal for short runs of leaflets, brochures, posters and header cards plus Wide Format printing services for signage, hoarding panels, vinyl banners, wallpapers and whatever else you need. Not only that but we can produce bespoke items for product launches and with our own box making equipment we can produce any box in any size. Our mission is simple. To provide customers with the right printing solutions to match their business needs, within budget and ontime.

To achieve this, we make it our business to keep up-to-date with developments

in printing technologies, processes and procedures. We don’t just keep an eye on our own industry, but also on that of our customers, so that we provide an informed print solution every time for our customers’ communication needs.

We are happy to help you with whatever services you require. No matter how unusual your printing request is we will do our best to provide a solution.

Our production facility operates from 8am-5pm Monday to Friday.

For a no obligation quote, just email jason@spiralcolour.com or call us on 01625 435130.

Education | Healthcare | Home Hospitality | Leisure | Offices | Retail

We believe that Spiral, stands out because of our ability to provide a solution for every branding situation. We do the simple things extremely well but we also do the difficult ones equally well.

BESPOKE WALLPAPER

Get the wow factor for your office, store or home now, with a bespoke large format, seamless, digitally printed wallpaper.

Perfect for receptions, creative spaces, conference rooms, sports facilities or anywhere you want to make a dynamic statement for your staff, customers, and visitors.

Spiral can produce design concepts, print, and install your bespoke wallpaper to your specifications and deadline. All we need is your blank interior wall and let us deliver the wow factor for you.

For a no obligation quote, just email jason@spiralcolour.com or call us on 01625 435130.

RETROFITTING IN STYLE

Established in 2006, Aspex UK are market leaders for interior fitout solutions offering timber doorsets, steel doors, risers, architectural ironmongery and access control

Aspex work closely with architects, contractors and developers nationwide, proudly supplying all types of projects from residential, healthcare, education and commercial.

Aspex are supporting various retrofitting projects in align with the urgency to upgrade residential, healthcare and academic buildings to cut carbon emissions and ensure of fire and security compliance.

Retrofitting is a high-demand service. Aspex’s dedicated team can support phased upgrades of retrofitting across different levels or selected buildings within a campus, ensuring of a smooth upgrade in a timely manner ensuring

minimal or no interruption to your everyday services and operations.

Retrofitting solutions work well when damaged or non-compliant doorsets need replacing too, Aspex can closely match your existing doorset and ironmongery designs allowing for consistent interior look. Upgrade the look of your interiors in a cost-effective way with retrofitting doorsets, ironmongery, risers and access control by Aspex.

Excellent choice of doorset solutions include entrance, internal and communal doorsets, PAS24 access controlled doorsets, acoustic doorsets, bi-folding & double-action doorsets and the option to include finger protection mechanisms. Ironmongery choices include heavy duty to aesthetical and bespoke designs.

Aspex’s experienced project consultants can help you make well-informed decisions about your project, by proposing suitable doorset choices including different configurations and finishes making sure the options adhere with the required fire performance, regulatory compliance, budget, delivery timeframes and interior design visions.

Aspex aim to support you every step of the way, not just supply doorsets and ironmongery products

Speak to Aspex about design choices, free samples and quotes, optimised delivery plans and maintenance tips and moresales@aspex.co.uk www.aspex.co.uk

Upgrade the look of your interiors in a costeffective way with retrofitting doorsets, ironmongery, risers and access control by Aspex.

THE RED CHURCH RECONSTRUCTION

The Red Church celebrates a glorious comeback in Olomouc

Olomouc Research Library has been using the Red Church as a book depository since 1959 and this beautiful Lutheran church has been completely closed to the public during all those years. The owner of this listed building, Olomouc Region, decided to construct a new library building to fulfill the storage needs and so free up the Red Church for cultural purposes such as smaller concerts, public readings, lectures, or art shows. Additionally, the Red Church is intended to be an information center for the Research Library and Olomouc Region.

Combining the overall reconstruction of the historical building with the new cultural and social functions was the main brief and focus of the design. The building was in a very poor condition. First, it was necessary to strengthen the foundations, mend the damp and

salty masonry, repair the stucco and plaster, and tidy up and fill the gaps in the facade cladding. The floors were a complete redo including the layers all the way down to the terrain base. The reconstruction of the roof was one of the most critical updates. The trusses have been severely damaged by the rain, they could have collapsed at any point. The studio decided to do a complete makeover with maximum effort to retain the original elements. The new roof was made of copper squares that copy the same shape and format as the original roof. The authentic decorative elements did not stand the test of time sadly, so the studio worked together with renowned Olomouc sculptor Jan Dostal who created contemporary artifacts to be placed there instead.

Extra space for operation and facilities was required for the new functionality of

the building, but it did not fit in the main body of the church. To avoid significant construction changes to the existing heritage building, the studio decided to add on a new mass that would serve operational purposes. The new building is placed right in between the church and the library directorate, linking the two together. There is a common entrance hall with a reception and a café. The new construction respects the Bezrucova Street line and keeps enough indent from the existing buildings.

The crystal-like mass of the annex responds to the neo-Gothic form of the church; it derives from its geometric shape, volume, and layout. The floor plan is a cut-out of the part of the church floor plan, only moved outside of the original platform. The walls and the rooftop are made of matte black aluminum.

The public space around the church is another compelling addition to the project. Where once there was a fence, there is a piazzeta with seating arrangements and suitable greenery now.

INTERIOR DESIGN

Atelier-r designed the concept and philosophy of the interior spaces and asked for collaboration with Denisa Strmiskova Studio which stands behind the detailed interior design elements such as the choice of lighting, or ready and custom-made furniture. Both atelier-r and Denisa Strmiskova Studio closely collaborated on choosing the materials and surfaces.

The reception and the café are taking up the main space in the modern annex. It is made of pastel pink concrete. The pink colour also matches other surfaces throughout the space such as floors, furniture, or walls. Massive accent book wall dominates the interior. It is a tall wall filled with old books that are backlit in the evening. There is a colourful glass Lambert & Fils light fixture hanging in front of the wall. The elegant and minimalist glass elements float in the air, suspended on the nylon ropes high above the visitors’ heads. If you look at them from specific angles, they reflect the houses in the street or the church. The lights are the defining connecting element in the room.

Sitting on the variety of comfortable chairs you will enjoy the meditative atmosphere of the space. Wooden Zeitraum chairs are made of walnut wood, and they are in both the church

interior and the café in the annex. Plastic Hay chairs are a refreshing design by the Bouroullec brothers. There are also minimalist armchairs to rest on. The coffee tables were made to measure. The material and the details of the tables were inspired by the traditional elements of the church.

Floor lamps from Kaia remind us of a modern flambeau. They are placed in

both the church and the café to set a pleasant vibe.

The new construction respects the Bezrucova Street line and keeps enough indent from the existing buildings.

A GREENER SOLUTION TO DOOR DROP

Looking to elevate your public consultation game? Look no further than Letterbox. With over 36 years of experience under their belt, they’re the go-to experts for public consultations, whether it’s for massive construction projects or giving your swanky design hub a well-deserved spotlight.

In the world of effective public consultations, door drop and direct mail campaigns are the unsung heroes. They’re not just informative tools; they’re the bridges that connect you with your community.

Construction projects often intersect with communities, making the relationship with local residents vital. Door drop or direct mail campaigns can provide comprehensive project information to affected households and businesses. This proactive approach empowers residents with knowledge, setting the stage for informed discussions and decision-making.

Real-World Impact

Imagine a recent regeneration project. Through measured door drop campaigns, construction authorities shared project timelines, alternate routes, and contact details for inquiries. The result? An engaged and informed community leads to smoother construction operations, fewer complaints, and a more positive perception of the project.

Tangible Connection

Communicating with local residents and businesses at the planning stage through to the various phases of a build will go a long way in developing positive relationships in the community and avoiding potential delays.

Door drop campaigns are irreplaceable assets for public consultations during construction projects. Where community understanding and cooperation are essential, these campaigns shine. By effectively informing and engaging communities, sharing real-world success stories, and leveraging the tangible power of physical marketing

materials, door drop campaigns can redefine how construction projects connect with the public.

Innovators

Letterbox has been at the forefront of introducing new technologies to the distribution industry like real-time tracking and accurate mapping. Graeme Davidson, Business Development Manager at Letterbox said, “We’ve been continually innovating with the latest technologies to ensure that every client has the highest level of impact throughout the community. We introduced real-time tracking to this industry so that we could prove the benefits of door drop to our clients and it also means we don’t miss a letterbox.”

Letterbox can offer design, print, direct mail, door drop, static handouts, and installation of posters and display boards to ensure your public consultation engages stakeholders and the public. They can count Crest Nicholson, Talyor Wimpey, Berkeley Homes, HS2, and Skanska among their clients.

For more details on how Letterbox can help you connect with your key stakeholders, visit www.letterboxdistribution.com.

Letterbox has been at the forefront of introducing new technologies to the distribution industry like real-time tracking and accurate mapping.

Make your campaigns truly memorable

We’re now officially LIVE with our new website

Screwshop primarily specialise in screws, fixings and fasteners for the DIY, hardware, building, joinery and furniture manufacturing sectors. It took more than 6 months of dedicated hard work and sincere efforts of our team members to come up with a creative solution that will help everyone buying on our Screwshop site.

Have a look to at

www.screwshop.co.uk to see for yourselves -

• Faster than ever

• Equipped with enhanced new features

• Powered by Easy-to-navigate functionality

• More user-friendly

We are dedicated to offering you, our customers, competitive prices from our ever-increasing range of imported products and expertise in more localised sourcing, excellent service and a versatile approach to a wide variety of finished and packaging options. With that, we also invite you to connect with our wonderful family on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to stay up to date and engaged with company announcements. Moreover, if you are into exploring the unknown, be sure to head over to check our blog posts and newly developed website sections.

If you have queries, comments, suggestions for us, or can’t find what you’re looking for, please share with us at Screwshop or call us on 0121 559 8866 – we are here to help.

Thank you from all at Screwshop

www.screwshop.co.uk | sales@screwshop.co.uk

Over 30 years of manufacturing knowledge

For over 37 years, Croft Filters have been supplying custom filtration and separation solutions. Throughout this time Croft has developed a reputation for their quality, bespoke service through manufacturing a variety of products for a range of different industries including: Construction, Energy and Water.

Croft can manufacture filters in any shape or design, these include: cones, baskets, screens and disc filters amongst others. Products

Call: 01925 766265

are available in wire mesh, wedge wire and perforated plate, depending on the specifications. Croft continues to expand their product range; from filter housings to metal 3D printed components.

Beyond filtration, Croft can supply Custom Perforated Plate solutions. Ideal for construction’s infill and balustrade panels, these plates seamlessly blend utility and aesthetics.

Explore more at www.filters.co.uk

| Email: sals@filters.co.uk

www.filters.co.uk

Croft Filters is the leading UK manufacturer and supplier of custom filtration solutions for over 30 years to the Oil & Gas, Food & Beverage and Pharmaceutical sectors.

UK ENGINEERING SINCE 1984

ENERGY DIAPHRAGM AND RAM PISTON PUMPS

Positive Displacement Pumps for the Waste Water and Sewage Industry designed to handle: Digester Feed; Thickener Feed; Long distance Sludge Transfer; RBC Feed and De Sludging; Inlet Dosing; Raw Sewage Transfer; Filter Press Feeds; Clay Slurry Pumping; Paper Mill Pulp; Effluent and more

Designed and manufactured ‘in house’ Energy Ram and Diaphragm Pumps have proved their worth time and again, not only through Energy efficiency, but also through clear, cost effective, robust and wholly reliable sludge and slurry handling on many Sewage sites throughout the UK and beyond. These

amazing British Pumps are invaluable on many WwTW’s and popular with maintenance engineers for their ease of handling and longevity The Diaphragm Pumps will ‘run dry’dry’, never failing on maximum suction and delivery.

Energy Pumps range of Ram Pumps begins with the smallest 240mm mechanical Ram, through to the 460mm hydraulic Ram Pump. With many different sizes available it ensures that there is an Energy Pump for most STW applications, including Quarries and

www.energypumps.co.uk

Mines where Energy Ram Pumps are suited to tough grit and silt handling.

The Hydraulic Ram Pumps are controlled by our own software, also developed “in-house”, so that we are able to tailor the Pump to your exact needs, ensuring maximum performance for the job in hand. Energy hydraulic Ram Pumps are also available in a duplex configuration which allows for higher flow rates, with pressures reaching up to 20 Bar.

ENERGY DIAPHRAGM PUMPS

The Energy Maxi, Major and Mastiff Diaphragm Pumps are the invaluable mainstay of many Sewage Treatment Works. They are competent in both primary and humus desludging and sludge transfer duties. Energy Pumps also have many applications in any industries which need to pump difficult sludge reliably and economically. The patented positive flow base of our Diaphragm Pumps, with patented antiragging, non-return Valves is designed to ensure that air quickly passes through the base, which then leads to an easier flow of contaminated materials. This, in turn offers low maintenance and ease of repair, when necessary. Energy Pumps are the obvious choice for many maintenance engineers.

The range of Energy Diaphragm Pumps varies according to the application. The Energy Hydraulic Mastiff Diaphragm Pump is ideally suited for those jobs which require pumping difficult sludge to higher pressures while retaining

longevity and reliability, plus ease of maintenance as with Energy Mechanical Ram Pumps. The reliable and versatile Energy Mastiff Diaphragm Pump is based on our highly successful Major. Our Mechanical and Hydraulic Mastiffs allow for greater flow rates and delivery Head. They are capable of processing materials much quicker than the Energy Major Pump, for those tough-handling jobs which require the more robust Pumps.

Being the smallest of the Energy Pumps the Energy Maxi Diaphragm Pump was initially the first to be designed for small STW’s. This Pump has also proven itself to be popular for pumping blood, strings and offal in Abattoirs and clay slip in Potteries. Energy Diaphragm and Ram Pumps are reliable Flood-Water Pumps and are popular with Farmers for pumping effluent and animal-feed for Agricultural purposes. Energy Diaphragm Pumps are fully portable and may be trailer-mounted.

www.energypumps.co.uk

A SUPERIOR SURVEYING SERVICE

At Malcolm Hughes we understand that retro-fit projects often stand at the crossroads of preserving history and embracing modernity. It is an intricate dance, especially during complex projects, but one we as a Chartered Land Survey Company, love to do.

Precision Mapping

Retro-fit projects require a deep understanding of existing conditions. At Malcolm Hughes we utilise cutting-edge technologies like LiDAR, GNSS, and UAV’s to capture accurate data about terrain, building dimensions, and architectural nuances. This precision becomes the cornerstone for informed decisionmaking throughout the project.

Historical Preservation

Historic preservation demands authenticity. At Malcolm Hughes we

Fast, efficient, and reliable Groupage services

employ 3D scanning and imaging techniques to create meticulous digital replicas of structures. These archives serve as references for architects, ensuring that every modification honours the original design. Preservationists can rest assured, knowing their beloved landmarks are in capable hands.

Environmentally Safe

Sustainability is paramount for the future and restoring old buildings is a fantastic place to start. Our surveyors at Malcolm Hughes optimize site layouts using topographical data,

www.malcolmhughes.co.uk

minimizing environmental impact and preserving green spaces. We can also identify hazards, such as flood-prone areas, concrete layers, Japanese knotweed and much more, to help enable strategic mitigation.

If you have a Retro-Fit project coming up and need detailed mapping, design or modelling, please reach out to one of the team on the email below. We are able to provide BIM environments, files in all formats and full utility mapping of any site.

surveythis@mhls.co.uk

Are you looking for a reliable transport provider between the UK and Europe?

Transporting groupage between the UK and Europe couldn’t be simpler. With our extensive and systemised pan-European network, no matter what your volumes and needs, DSV provide real-time shipment data to streamline your planning and optimise workflows.

Looking for a hassle-free experience when trading with the EU? Then DSV SmartShipper is the solution, using the Incoterms DDP (Delivered Duty Paid), DSV takes all the responsibility of customs and duty requirements.

Contact the team today - (+44)1708 892108 enquiries@uk.dsv.com

INNOVATIVE, INSPIRATIONAL, PROGRESSIVE

UKCW Birmingham returns this autumn

UK Construction Week (UKCW)

Birmingham, returns for its ninth year this autumn. The UK’s largest event for the built environment, registration is now live for UKCW Birmingham, which will run from October 3rd to 5th at the NEC Birmingham. The three-day construction show, welcoming over 25,000 visitors, will hero culture change in construction and will feature over 6,000 products and services.

The first set of speakers and details on seminar hubs have been announced and UKCW will host three days of debate and discussion with high-profile names bringing some of the industry’s most eminent leaders under one roof. Together they will challenge, discuss & address the core issues affecting the built environment sector; from transforming infrastructure performance, sustainability, well being and building health and technology and the skills gap are on the wide-ranging

programme, along with some brilliant minds from Nottingham Trent University.

Speakers include:

• Andy Street, Mayor of West Midlands Combined Authority

• Anita Malster, CEO, Blossom Mental Health

• Becky Valentine, Co-owner, LeadSustainability, Wellbeing & Building Health

• Chithra Marsh, National Chair of Women in Property

• Dame Judith Hackitt DBE, FREng, Chair, Industry Safety Steering Group

• Jennifer Winyard, Senior Strategic Land Manager, Barratt Developments plc

• Joanne Williams MSc, MRICS, Historic Building Surveyor – Historic Building Climate

• Change Adaptation

• Jon Loveday, Director of Infrastructure, Enterprise and Growth, Infrastructure Projects Authority

• Paul Kitson, Strategic Director of Place, Prosperity and Sustainability, Birmingham City Council

• Richard Bull, Deputy Dean, School of Architecture, Design and Built Environment, Nottingham Trent University

Officially opened by architect and Channel 4 presenter George Clarke and championed by partners and sponsors such as HP, Northgate and, Find It In Birmingham, CIOB, BMF, and NFB, the show will feature sessions and seminars led by industry experts across six stages:

Nathan Garnett, UKCW event director, commented: “This year’s fantastic line-up of speakers really sets the stage for what the show has in store for in 2023. This is just the beginning for our announcements and we are looking forward to revealing more sponsors, speakers and exhibitors very soon.”

Officially opened by architect and Channel 4 presenter George Clarke and championed by partners and sponsors such as HP, Northgate and, Find It In Birmingham, CIOB, BMF, Conquip and NFB, the show will feature sessions and seminars led by industry experts across six stages:

• Sustainability Hub - the heart of Timber Expo. The hub programme will tackle the issues, layout strategies and case studies to help the sector reach its net zero targets.

• Infrastructure Hub - sponsored by Conquip Engineering Group, highlights digitalisation and improving quality and sustainability, this hub will deliver a three-day programme for those working on infrastructure projects of case studies, debates, networking opportunities, and keynote speeches on crucial issues.

• Digital Construction Hub – the centre piece of innovation at UKCW. This hub will deliver a series of presentations and panel discussions including topics such as Information Management using BIM.

• CPD Hub – sponsored sessions by Pure Vista, Blossom Mental Health Training, Quadrant (QAI Services UK), BP Collins, Lesniak Swann featuring a world-class education programme delivered by industry experts, association partners, government departments and exhibitors.

• Robotics Theatre - From little robots on wheels, to exoskeletons and big robotic arms this area sponsored by HP Construction Services

showcases the latest in robotics and automation from the global built environment.

• Culture Change Hub - a focus on improving inclusivity within the built environment, wellbeing and mental health and professional development.

Other key features include:

• Future Lab - featuring groundbreaking and innovative products including the Exoskeleton from exhibitor German Bionic; a wearable device that can make users feel less tired and reduce the risk of strain injuries.

• UKCW Role Model Awardscelebrating the unsung heroes of construction, the award ceremony will be taking place on the main stage on 5th October.

• Timber Expo - celebrating 10 years at UKCW this year, the UK’s largest display event for wood and timber

presents the future of the sectorfrom sawmills, timber cladding and mouldings to doors, windows and flooring products.

To register for UKCW Birmingham for free, go to UKCW Birmingham Registrations (https://ukcwbirmingham-2023.reg.buzz/cab-pr)

Follow us on social media @uk_cw #UKCW2023

This is just the beginning for our announcements and we are looking forward to revealing more sponsors, speakers and exhibitors very soon.

THE LOOK OF LUX

Baked Tile Co.

Want the look of luxury marble, without the cost?

The new collection from The Baked Tile Company might just offer the perfect solution.

The Marble Lux collection brings together the aesthetic appeal of real marble without the ‘real marble’ price tag.

Manufactured from premium porcelain, these 9.2mm thick large format tiles will bring opulence wherever they are placed. Intricate veining detail and an ultra-polished finish only add to the appeal.

But what really makes this collection special is its intricate pattern, which ensures perfect symmetry.

Lesley Taylor, Founder of The Baked Tile Company, said: “Marble has long been the go-to for luxury interiors. But if you want that opulent finish, you’re going to have to put the work in. Marble tiles require constant maintenance and are incredibly expensive.

The Marble Lux collection is made up of porcelain beauties that have the same appearance of marble, but are fuss free and really easy to keep in top condition.

“The Marble Lux collection is made up of porcelain beauties that have the same appearance of marble, but are fuss free and really easy to keep in top condition.

“Marble Lux is a visually striking bookmatched design, which creates a really impressive feature in any space.”

The Marble Lux collection is available in three finishes: Calacatta, Sahara Noir and Orobico Aqua.

Prices start at £60 per m2. They are available from www.bakedtiles.co.uk

Reflecting high standards in bathroom design

Reflecting high standards in bathroom design

In 1992 demista revolutionized the bathroom mirror market by introducing a heated mirror pad which adhered to the back of the mirror to prevent condensation from forming on the glass.

In 1992 demista revolutionized the bathroom mirror market by introducing a heated mirror pad which adhered to the back of the mirror to prevent condensation from forming on the glass.

The inconvenience and frustration of these foggy mirrors was eliminated forever, giving you a clearly perfect steam free mirror without the need for time consuming wiping or costly cleaning products.

The inconvenience and frustration of these foggy mirrors was eliminated forever, giving you a clearly perfect steam free mirror without the need for time consuming wiping or costly cleaning products.

demista has been proven and accepted nationally and internationally and through its unique reputation and unblemished track record has been the number one choice for specifiers of mirror defoggers for over 26 years. A product range that is available in a large range of standard sizes to suit almost any mirror and bespoke sizes can be supplied if required.

We’ve got everything covered!

In addition to being a trusted name for heated mirror pads, demista also offers electric underfloor heating solutions to offer clients a complete solution in bathroom design.

We’ve got everything covered!

demista has been proven and accepted nationally and internationally and through its unique reputation and unblemished track record has been the number one choice for specifiers of mirror defoggers for over 26 years. A product range that is available in a large range of standard sizes to suit almost any mirror and bespoke sizes can be supplied if required.

In addition to being a trusted name for heated mirror pads, demista also offers electric underfloor heating solutions to offer clients a complete solution in bathroom design.

demista products have been fitted in some of the worlds most prestigious properties and hotel developments, including The Burj Al Arab, The Royal Atlantis, Fairmont Dubai, The Intercontinental O2 and other high value developments in London

demista products have been fitted in some of the worlds most prestigious properties and hotel developments, including The Burj Al Arab, The Royal Atlantis, Fairmont Dubai, The Intercontinental O2 and other high value developments in London demista the original and trusted name for mirror heat pads and underfloor heating solutions throughout the world.

demista the original and trusted name for mirror heat pads and underfloor heating solutions throughout the world.

To find out more please visit www.demista.co.uk

To find out more please visit www.demista.co.uk

SPACE SAVING STORAGE

VonHaus.com launches affordable bathroom furniture collection with eye-catching slatted design

With over 15 established furniture collections on their website already, homeware retailer VonHaus.com have launched a brand-new bathroom furniture range which caters to those looking for space-saving storage.

The new Chester collection has recently landed and complements the existing Shrewsbury and Holbrook range, all of which feature an array of chic, functional options to elevate bathrooms.

Following an increase in demand for minimalist furniture – the range, which features a natural oak wood effect finish and an eye-catching slatted design –has come at a perfect time for those looking to transform their bathrooms on a budget.

The range compromises of a under sink basin unit, a tallboy bathroom unit and a small bathroom cabinet. All of these pieces provide ample storage in places that may not already be used in the bathroom, and can be utilised for cleaning supplies, toiletries, towels and more.

Gina Homes, Furniture Buyer at VonHaus, has spoken about the inspiration behind the design of this range, and how adaptable each piece is:

“The design for the Chester range is inspired by current trends for textures and natural materials. Bathrooms are usually more classic in design and the Chester collection enables our customers to tap into this trend and refresh a bathroom and add in that sought-after practical storage.

The standout feature of the range is the linear band panelling effect which adds texture and interest in a minimalist way, whilst keeping storage neat and discreet, and uncluttered with clean lines. The light-coloured wood effect adds brightness, and warmth, and provides a rustic charm to what originally could be seen as a sterile space.

The units are incredibly versatile as each one include shelves, all of which are adjustable, which means they can be adapted to the person or family’s needs.

The compact design of the tallboy unit and small storage unit means both could slot into a multitude of spaces, and even be used outside of the bathroom!”

0161 833 5442 | www.vonhaus.com

The standout feature of the range is the linear band panelling effect which adds texture and interest in a minimalist way, whilst keeping storage neat and discreet, and uncluttered with clean lines.

HIGH-CLASS BATHROOM DESIGN FROM START TO FINISH

BAGNODESIGN

Established in Dubai, BAGNODESIGN by SANIPEX GROUP is now present in over 40 countries, chosen by some of the most acclaimed interior designer houses and leading architects for projects large and small. By offering a one-stop solution for every area of a bathroom’s design, it has become the brand of choice for many.

BAGNODESIGN offers the complete solution for creating dream bathrooms. Luxury, quality, and innovation combine, from a high-end brand that offers design-led thinking and trend-setting product design.

Finishes in the bathroom are a huge story that is driving the brand’s growth. By offering a wealth of fashionable finishes across its brassware collections it is at the cutting end of interior design trends. This is evident throughout the latest collections, including Chiasso, a contemporary collection of basin and shower mixers, available in four versatile brassware finishes. In chrome, brushed nickel, soft bronze, and PVD gold, the inserts on the handles are customisable, and available in 12 finishes.

Equally as striking is Sestriere, basin and bath mixer handles beautifully crafted from marble and offset with the same on-trend metallic finishes. Similarly focused on bridging the gap between old and new in bathroom design is Bristol, a collection that draws its inspiration from the mid-20th Century to bring classical elegance to the modern setting. Combining a soft, industrial style with bold statement pieces, Bristol is the perfect choice for emulating the rejuvenating ambiance of an urban spa, in the comfort of the home bathroom environment. Featuring a distinctive vogue style, Bristol gives a choice of two handle options – linear and cross – and no fewer than five on-trend luxe finishes.

A further new introduction into the BAGNODESIGN family is Orology, this time taking its design thinking from stylish watch bezels, with its versatile features offering a sense of understated luxury, allowing variations

and combinations to maintain timeless contemporary elegance. Again, the brand’s focus on high-quality finishes as statement pieces if brought to the fore, with versatile options including PVD Gold, Anthracite, Chrome, Brushed Nickel, and Soft Bronze, each adding individual perspective and depth to the finish and turning bathroom brassware into a style statement.

With a fully stocked, centrally based UK distribution and fulfilment centre supported by the SANIPEX GROUP headquarters in UAE, creating beautiful, luxurious bathrooms is easeful from start to finish with BAGNODESIGN.

For more details call 01924 233977 or visit www.bagnodesign.it

Luxury, quality, and innovation combine, from a high-end brand that offers design-led thinking and trend-setting product design.

with

®

the stainless steel specialists

Transform your renovation project with an unforgettable statement appliance

With a wide selection of sizes, hobs, styles, colours, and nishes to choose from, you have the power to create a statement piece that perfectly suits your next project.

Customise an ILVE range cooker to match your exact requirements using our online con gurator.

For more information, please contact:

ce@kitchenex.co.uk 0114 399 8672

Cistermiser’s new CPD presentation explains the benefits of IoT remote monitoring

Intelligent washroom controls and water efficiency specialist

Cistermiser has launched a new CPD learning module entitled: “Using the Internet of Things for Water Temperature Monitoring to Help Reduce Risk of Legionella”.

This CPD fully discusses the issues around this important requirement and describes how the latest remote monitoring systems using IoT technology platforms deliver significant advantages for management of commercial buildings in the 21st century.

Key considerations include the threat of Legionella and other waterborne bacteria, why understanding water temperature is vital to building management, defining design parameters for water system monitoring, how the Internet of Things can be utilised and the practical benefits of digital analytics.

1 hour in duration with an interactive Q&A to close the session, this CPD learning module from Cistermiser is presented in “short seminar” format and is approved by 3 third party organisations: The CPD Certification Service, RIBA and CIBSE.

To request a CPD presentation, please send an email to info@ourworldiswater.co.uk or contact Cistermiser on

BESPOKE PREMIUM GLASS SHOWER SCREENS AND ENCLOSURES

From Majestic

The Majestic Shower Company has been leading the way in glass shower screens and enclosures since 1968.

More than 50 years later, the Company’s commitment to elegant, timeless and understated design remains as strong as ever. The curated portfolio of bespoke manufactured shower screens, enclosures and bath screens is enjoyed in discerning homes, landmark hotels and resorts throughout the world. Majestic is also recognised by leading architects and interior designers for exceptional design and performance.

The iconic Frameless, Demi Framed and Beyond Bespoke collections offer the opportunity to realise any project requirement. Standard options are available in a wide range of sizes, and 2m in height. Many Express Standard sizes can also be delivered in full within 7 days.

Majestic’s real expertise though lies in a unique ability to design and manufacture bespoke solutions including panel heights of 2.4m and over incorporating complex angled cuts to help overcome the most challenging applications.

Profiles, hinges and handles are available in a wide range of finishes

The iconic Frameless, Demi Framed and Beyond Bespoke collections offer the opportunity to realise any project requirement.

from the ever-popular Polished Chrome to on-trend Brushed Brass, Dark Copper and Matte Black. Glass options include Clear, Opti Clear, Bronze, Grey, Satin Edged and Mirrored. Majestic’s

exciting new Art Glass Collection also includes four breath-taking textured finishes in Fluted, Carved, Stone and Ice. Profiles, hinges, handles and glass can also be mixed and matched to configure individual designs for each project. A dedicated Specification Team is also on hand to take care of every detail.

In addition, Majestic has now opened a brand-new Gallery showroom at it’s Head Office in Dunmow, Essex. This unique design destination opens up a world of showering design possibilities and is available for architects and designers to use for meetings and to invite their own clients to visit.

Find out more at www.majesticshowers.com

HOW TO MAKE THE SMALLEST OF BATHROOMS THE HOTTEST OF SPACES

Homeowners with small bathrooms are looking to make the most of every inch of their space, according to research from the UK’s leading online radiator supplier – UK Radiators

Data from Pinterest shows that searches for small bathroom renovation ideas are soaring over the last month, with the term ‘small bathroom interior design’ up 900%, while ‘small bathroom interior’ searches are up 200% and ‘small bathroom renovations’ increasing by 60%.

Small towel radiators are a great solution for homeowners who want to inject some contemporary style in this most functional of bathroom essentials.

These versatile pieces can be hung next to the sink, to ensure hand towels are within easy reach, or even beneath a window to capitalise on empty wall space.

Rob Nezard, who founded UK Radiators alongside his brother Dan, said: “Bathrooms are often the smallest rooms in the home but they still need

Bathrooms are often the smallest rooms in the home but they still need to be heated effectively. Choosing a radiator that combines function and style is vital.

to be heated effectively. Choosing a radiator that combines function and style is vital.

“Thanks to advances in manufacturing, there is a solution for even the most awkward bathrooms. Make the most of the wall space that is available by installing a small towel rail radiator and creating a designated heating zone.

“And finally, don’t forget to calculate the BTUs (British Thermal Units) required to heat your small space and choose a radiator that meets them!”

UK Radiators’ range of small towel rail radiators start at £52 and are available from ukradiators.com

HIGH QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP

from Vogue UK

The Vogue UK electric range offers high-quality craftsmanship and a stylish design, making a great addition to any space that requires additional heating for towels or other purposes. Eco Modular Bars from Vogue UK are a lowvoltage, practical and stylish solution for heating towels and providing warmth in any space. The bars are available in two widths in either polished or brushed stainless steel and matt black to suit your preferences and decor.

One of the benefits of the Vogue UK Eco Modular Bars is that they are powered by SELV (Safety Extra Low Voltage) 12v connection, making them safe and energy-efficient. This also means that they can be installed in areas where it may not be practical to connect to a central heating system, such as a bathroom or a laundry room.

Vogue UK Eco Modular Bars can be installed as singular units or linked together to create multiple heated bars, providing more flexibility in terms of how much heat is required and how much space is available for installation. In addition to the Eco Modular Bars, Vogue UK offers a wide range of other products, including heated towel rails, designer radiators, and other heating solutions. The company’s products are designed to meet the needs of every designer, with a range of finishes and styles to choose from.

Vogue UK is a leading manufacturer of heated towel rails, designer radiators, and accessories, with a commitment to quality craftsmanship and innovative design. Established in 1990 in the West Midlands, Vogue UK has been at the forefront of the industry, offering a range of products that combine design with functionality.

If you require a unique design, Vogue UK’s designers can create a bespoke product to your exact specifications.

With over 30 years of experience in creating towel rails and designer radiators, Vogue UK has built an extensive portfolio of designs and can offer a bespoke service

With over 30 years of experience in creating towel rails and designer radiators, Vogue UK has built an extensive portfolio of designs and can offer a bespoke service, ideal if you’re looking to create an authentic period look or match an existing design.

Vogue UK is a reliable and trusted brand that offers high-quality, stylish, and practical heating solutions for any space. Whether you’re looking for a heated towel rail, designer radiator, or other heating product, Vogue UK is sure

to have a product that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.

Vogue UK, Strawberry Lane, WIllenhall, West Midlands, United Kingdom, WV13 3RS

+44(0) 1902 387000 | sales@ vogueuk.co.uk

Facebook - Vogue (UK) Ltd

Twitter - @vogueukltd

Instagram - @vogue_uk_ltd

LinkedIn - Vogue UK

Pinterest - @vogueukltd

Eco Modular Bars

Low Voltage Towel Warmer Bars

• Supplied with quick connections and 6m cable as standard

• Available in matt black and polished stainless steel

• Available in 500mm and 600mm

• Can be singular or linked to create multiple heated bars

Low Voltage 12V Connection

SELV (Safety Extra Low Voltage) technology

• Energy efficent vogueuk.co.uk

BATH RENOVATION WILL NEVER BE THE SAME

Can you imagine transforming a bathroom in as little as one day?

Introducing - Bath Fitter

Our unique bath-over-bath process means work can be completed in as little as one day. Our innovative approach means no rip out and demolition, where tiles are being torn off the walls. This allows customers to have their space back up and running by as soon as the end of the day.

While bath-over-bath is our specialty, Bath Fitter also offers shower-overshower, bath-out-shower-in, and seamless, one-piece walls that can wrap your entire bathroom in as little as one premium quality acrylic sheet!

Our baths and walls are made of nonporous acrylic that is durable, as well as easy to clean and maintain. We developed and perfected our acrylic material and manufacture it at our state-of-the-art plants in Tennessee, USA and in Quebec, Canada, which is why we confidently offer a strong 10-year warranty on our product and installation.

Our specially trained consultants take precise measurements of our customer’s existing bath before we produce a custom-made bath, or shower, that is carefully fitted during a watertight installation process. Our one-piece vertically seamless walls mean no grout, which in turn facilitates easy cleaning and maintenance.

Bath Fitter was started by three imaginative and industrious brothers more than 38 years ago and the company has been disrupting the bathroom renovation market since then, with more than 2 million bathroom projects completed all over the USA, Canada and, most recently, Ireland and the UK.

Since establishing itself in Limerick, Ireland in 2020, Bath Fitter has been successfully transforming baths, showers and wet areas in hospitality, healthcare, student accommodation, education, residential and modular sectors.

Bath Fitter manages every step of the transformation process, from planning to manufacturing to installation.

with a professional and hassle-free renovation and new construction, as well as offsite option with many years of service.”

Bath Fitter manages every step of the transformation process, from planning to manufacturing to installation.

Michael Prendergast, Vice President of UK and European Sales, explains, “Our first installer was hired almost immediately, followed soon after by the first B2B order. It’s been a great start and a real team effort. We’re excited to bring Bath Fitter’s innovative and cost-effective renovation solutions to Europe. The ability to transform a bathroom in a single day gives Bath Fitter advantages over existing technologies and provides our clients

In Ireland and the UK, Bath Fitter has already hired several talented and skilled individuals for business development and sales, as well as installation and marketing positions, as we focus on developing long-term relationships with current and future clients.

Bath Fitter: Suitable for retrofit, refurb and new build – your renovation partner for bathroom, shower and wet area.

For more information, CONTACT US: Freephone : 0808 2581000 | Office : 0204 5252255 BATHFITTER.CO.UK | BATHFITTER.IE

For over 35 years, Bath Fitter has revolutionized bath renovation. Bath Fitter manufactures, supplies and installs new baths, shower trays and full wall wraps without removing the old ones Our process puts a new bath in place in as little as one day, with no messy demolition. Best of all, our product is built to last for a lifetime.

OUR BENEFITS

AUTUMN/WINTER KITCHEN TRENDS

Ruth Lavender, design expert at Benchmarx Kitchens, outlines the trends set to dominate kitchen design this autumn/winter

Earth tones

“This autumn we’re moving away from all-white minimalist design and embracing a nature-inspired colour palette. This trend is all about taking it back to the roots by incorporating tones that reflect the natural world, offering a sense of serenity.

“The beauty of earth-inspired hues is that they can be very diverse, fitting the role of a neutral base colour without being one-dimensional. This

scheme also provides an opportunity to experiment with textures and materials to add interest.

“The palette can be both warm and cool, depending on personal preference. It includes traditional warm colours like terracotta, but also spans across the colour wheel to include more muted tones like sage green, cashmere, taupe and stone grey.

“Due to the neutral nature of this

scheme, it can be worked into a variety of designs, from modern and minimalist to traditional and rustic, making this trend a versatile choice that creates timeless appeal.

“These natural tones can be welcomed into the space through your choice of earthy cabinetry, wall colours and accessories. Wicker and rattan furniture, wood surfaces and floors, and greenery are great ways to build up the scheme.

Dark hues

“As the days get shorter and the evenings get darker, it’s natural for us to want to be surrounded by deeper tones in the home to create a feeling of cosiness.

“Introducing these hues into your kitchen design can bring warmth and sophistication, whilst maintaining an atmosphere that is easy to live with all year round. You can introduce these elements in a subtle or bold way, depending on your own personal preference and how much impact you’d like to make.

“Dark blues, greens and greys have become staple colours to create an interior scheme that embodies the ‘moody’ trend and it’s easy to see why. These hues maintain a level of softness that draws you in, working brilliantly with greys, whites, pinks and more to create countless looks and finishes.

“Black and storm grey are also colours that are gaining momentum in kitchen design, as well as warming options like copperleaf which brings a cosy yet sophisticated finish.

“With a solid base colour in place across the cabinetry, don’t be afraid to experiment and mix textures, metallics and stone through worksurfaces, flooring, and accessories, to create something that really reflects your style. Alternatively, you could choose two complementing cabinet door colours, such as midnight blue and French white, to add softness to the deeper tones and brighten the space whilst still enjoying those moody, darker shades.

Textural

“Incorporating texture has been a tactic long-used in interiors to elevate a space and make it appear more considered. This autumn, there’ll be a greater focus on this trend in the kitchen, whether it’s through accessories, furniture, tiling, work surfaces or cabinets.

“Texture can make a tremendous difference to the look and feel of a kitchen, adding visual interest and tactile appeal. In a space as hands-on as the kitchen, it’s a design feature which deserves attention, as it can transform the room.

“An incredibly versatile ingredient, texture forms a key part of your interior palette. For those who favour a more pared-back colour scheme, incorporating tactile materials adds interest and depth. In colour-rich kitchens, texture breaks up bold, block colour and can be used to zone the kitchen.

“Mixing materials is a brilliant way to add variety, without committing to a strong colour palette. Combining textures such as exposed brick, natural wood and stone adds surface variation. It’s also possible to add interest through

your choice of cabinet finish. Options include stone, wood, metal and gloss effects – all of which can provide a different feeling to the space.

“Stone and exposed brick can be used to create an industrial feel, whereas wood grains create a more traditional look. Gloss cabinets are perfect for modern designs and reflect natural light beautifully.

Evergreen

“As we’re spending more time at home, there’s a greater focus on creating a space that makes us feel relaxed and at ease. Green kitchens are perfect for creating a ‘less is more’ approach that draws on influence from nature, bringing a sense of calm into the home.

“Greens work particularly well due to their association with nature and wellness – helping to bring the outdoors in. Olive green pairs well with leathers, deeper forest greens and natural greenery, such as leafy house plants. Nourishing and balancing, this shade is incredibly versatile, possesses a trans-seasonal quality and is just so easy to live with.

“Forest green is another popular choice in the kitchen, whether it’s incorporated through cabinetry, splashbacks, paint or accessories. Its popularity is down to its timeless, calming and serene qualities. Pairing perfectly with light neutrals, other green hues and even dark greys and black for a bolder scheme, it’s a colour that’s here to stay.

“Sage green is also a go-to due to its ability to complement a whole host of colours, from delicate white to statement-making black. It also pairs perfectly with neutrals and other greens and greys, making it a great option for those looking to introduce colour in a subtle way. Thanks to its versatility, it can be styled to embody everything from a traditional farmhouse kitchen to a stunningly contemporary, luxe space.

Colour pops

“During the autumn months, we want our home to act as a haven that shelters us from the outdoors, as well as a retreat that brings us joy and lifts our mood. A colourful kitchen is always a bright idea, but is even more impactful when the days are short and the nights are long.

“You can be as subtle or as bold as you like when it comes to injecting colour into your space. Whether you go all-out with vibrant cabinetry, or elevate your scheme with a splash of colour, an uninspiring space can easily be transformed into a standout room. From neon to pastel, creating a kaleidoscope kitchen can transform your culinary space.

“Matt denim is a great cabinet colour for those looking to add a pop, as it brings a sense of tranquillity with its oceanic tone. By combining this hue

with white marble work surfaces, light wood flooring and neutral walls, you can really let the cabinets do the talking. Whether you choose to style it up with further accents of colour, or stick to a blue palette alone, the cabinets will act as the backdrop to your ideal kitchen.

“For those who like to keep things darker, I’d recommend colonial blue. The beauty of this shade is that it can be paired with both light and dark accents to create entirely different looks. Choosing light-veined marble work surfaces and splashbacks, along with silver finishes and dark oak furniture, results in a design that encompasses both modern and traditional. If you prefer a more contemporary finish, I’d recommend adding overstated bar handles, undercupboard Sensio lighting, and mustard yellow accessories.

“Blush pink is a colour that many are drawn to. Feminine and fun, the possibilities are endless with this soft pink. For those wanting a hint of this hue without it feeling overpowering, it can be used on just an island, or lower cabinetry, with a more neutral colour to balance things out. Alternatively, embrace this shade with open arms and use it across the entire kitchen, pairing it with a statement splashback and white work surfaces – or darker handles and accessories to create a more balanced look.” www.benchmarxkitchens.co.uk

During the autumn months, we want our home to act as a haven that shelters us from the outdoors, as well as a retreat that brings us joy and lifts our mood.

Q ACOUSTICS E120

Maximising your kitchen’s potential

Create a flexible space for cooking, dining, working, relaxing, and entertaining.

As we spend more time at home, the kitchen has become the focal gathering point of the home. Open plan kitchen designs must maximise space and offer solutions to prepare meals, dine, work, relax and entertain. The demands of the 2023 kitchen have never been higher, so now is the time to consider adding technology that enhances and brings together all these kitchen activities. Q Acoustics has these answer with its E120 fully installed kitchen entertainment system, purposefully designed for these demanding and busy spaces.

‘Modern kitchens focus on the physical, layout and design of the space’, states Paul Hilditch, product manager at Q Acoustics. ‘Whilst of course this is the most important aspect to consider first, there is also a unique opportunity to build in technology and entertainment products at the design stage, as a new kitchen will most undoubtedly involve some new electrical wiring.’

The Q Acoustics E120 system includes a main in-wall control panel and amplifier, the size of a double gang light switch and comes in a classic but stylish white or black finish. The system is also IP54-certified, meaning it can be happily installed in environments where humidity and the ingress of water is possible, such as a kitchen or bathroom, while a splash-proof remote control is also

With an intuitive user-interface, it features touch sensitive controls, a 3.2” colour display and an alarm function which is useful when cooking.

supplied. With an intuitive user-interface, it features touch sensitive controls, a 3.2” colour display and an alarm function which is useful when cooking.

The panel allows the user to select favourite stored digital radio stations or use Bluetooth to wirelessly stream any music or podcasts from a smartphone, laptop or tablet. E120 is best used with a pair of Q Acoustics stereo speakers

installed into the ceiling, resulting in the whole system being fitted into the room rather than occupying valuable worktop or table space. E120 can also connect to an external audio source such as a TV or even turntable for those vinyl record enthusiasts.

‘Fitting E120 into the wall and ceiling brings many benefits’, explains Paul,’ you end up with a powerful high performance audio system that occupies zero room space. The speakers are well separated which results in a great stereo sound that fills the room, rather than just a corner. E120 can also connect to a subwoofer discreetly built into the kitchen for those who really like added low-end bass! Our love of music and radio is universal, so it’s great to bring that right into the fabric of the kitchen, so people can use it and enjoy it every single day.

For more information on the E120 please visit www.qacoustics.co.uk.

For sales enquiries please contact sales@armourhome.co.uk or +44 (0)1279 50 11 11.

MINIMAL APPEARANCE MAXIMUM PERFORMANCE

Elica offers a range of high-performance built-in models

Built-in extractor hoods deliver the clean uncluttered look and the efficient use of space that homeowners are increasingly looking for. They provide an understated and powerful answer to cooking requirements and, being elegantly concealed within the kitchen are the choice for open plan living or kitchens with a minimalist style.

Elica offers a range of highperformance built-in models with extraction rates of more than 600 m3/h, whilst maintaining low noise levels. Many models are very slim, making them ideal for UK specification cabinets and offer super easy installation. Models are available with either ductout or re-circulating filter options, and in stainless steel, soft black and white glass finishes.

New to the Elica range is SLEEK 2.0 ADVANCE, which features Airmatic with smart sensors that can monitor are react to air quality to set the most suitable power level even when you are no longer cooking. This provides the optimum balance between usage, energy efficiency and low noise levels. Available in 60cm and 80cm widths, it is rated as Energy Efficiency Class A with a boosted maximum airflow of 690 m³/h and comes with strip LED lighting. The LED lighting comes with a dimmer and has Elica’s “Tune White” feature so homeowners can adapt the intensity and the warmth of the light to create

the desired atmosphere and to match other nearby lighting.

The Elica BOXIN range is ideally suited to “continental” style cabinets without cut-outs. The units disappear completely, effectively replacing the bottom of the wall unit. Within the BOXIN range are four models. All available in 60, 90 and 120cm sizes. BOXIN LUX is a powerful and competitive entry level model. BOXIN HE has a very high performance and perimeter aspiration. Where condensation is a problem there is BOXIN DRY and BOXIN Advance has the highest performance and AIRMATIC function.

And for customers on more modest budgets Elica offers the FOLD and ERA ranges of extractors both of which come in multiple versions with different powers and a range of finishes including stainless steel and soft black

www.elica.co.uk

Many models are very slim, making them ideal for UK specification cabinets and offer super easy installation.

SMALL SIZE

60 cm COMFORT SILENCE COOK RESPONSIBLY

HOW TO ADD VALUE TO YOUR KITCHEN

Gemini Worktops

As homeowners, it’s only natural to seek ways to add value and functionality to your kitchen space as it’s a room we spend a substantial amount of time in. A well-designed and upgraded kitchen enhances your daily cooking experience and boosts your property’s overall value when it comes to selling your property

Oliver J Newby MNAEA from Stephenson’s Estate Agents and Chartered Surveyorss states: “The property’s kitchen is often its heart and stand-out feature. Installing a

quality kitchen with luxury work surfaces will help elevate the home’s value and provide huge saleability and a ‘wow’ factor. A high specification kitchen is often at the top of many buyer’s wish lists, and therefore investing in highquality units and worktops, that are built to last, can regularly result in a quicker sale”.

Let’s take a look at some of the ways you can add value to your kitchen, including upgrading your surfaces.

TIMELESS AESTHETIC

Soft shades and neutral colours are ideal for adding value to your kitchen due to their timeless and versatile appeal. Marble effect quartz worktops are a great way to incorporate these natural tones into your kitchen design. Soft golds and light grey veining add a timeless yet modern aesthetic to the kitchen design. With endless design options and styles, there is something for every kitchen. These hues create a calm and inviting atmosphere, making the space warm and welcoming. Neutral

colours, such as whites, beiges, and creams, offer a sense of sophistication and elegance, appealing to a broader range of tastes and preferences. Additionally, these soft and neutral tones uniquely make the kitchen appear more spacious and lighter, enhancing its overall aesthetics and perceived value. As trends come and go, these classic colours will remain a safe and attractive choice, ensuring long-lasting appeal and increased marketability of the kitchen space, allowing the space to easily be reworked to suit various personalities and design styles.

STYLISH AND FUNCTIONAL WORKTOPS

Worktops are the centrepiece of any kitchen, and choosing the right material can make a substantial difference in both aesthetics and usability. Quartz is a popular choice due to its durability and elegance.Quartz worktops are highly recommended due to their non-porous surface, low maintenance requirements, and resistance to stains and scratches, not to mention the beauty they add to the space.

LIGHTING MATTERS

Lighting is an essential element in any kitchen design, and it can greatly enhance the overall value and functionality of the space. Proper lighting illuminates the entire area and adds a touch of style and elegance to the kitchen. LED lighting is something that can be installed on the underside of the worktop to provide functional lighting in the kitchen workspace, particularly in areas where overhead lighting may not be sufficient. The soft, diffused light can help to reduce eye strain and make it easier to see what is in the drawers under the worksurface when opened. This lighting adds a touch of luxury to the space and is a subtle way to add value to your kitchen design.

By strategically placing different types of lighting fixtures, such as task lighting for food preparation areas, ambient lighting for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, and accent lighting to highlight certain features or decorative elements, you can create a visually appealing and highly functional kitchen and this, in turn, can often create a sense of space.

STORAGE SOLUTIONS

A cluttered kitchen can be frustrating and unappealing and by maximising storage space you can organise your

kitchen, drawers and cupboards which allows more worktop space. No matter the size of your kitchen it’s vital to optimise all the space.You can do this by adding cabinets, drawers, and shelving to display your accessories and kitchen decor. Custom-built cabinets can be tailored to your specific needs, making the most of every inch in your kitchen. Floating shelves are a great way to take advantage of your wall space. You can add quartz shelving to match your worktops, this not only creates a cohesive space but allows you to display your kitchen items, this is a great way to add a feature to a plain and unused space. Clever storage solutions, such as pull-out racks and deep drawers, help keep everything organised and easily accessible.

Transforming your kitchen into a valuable and inviting space doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. Investing in these upgrades can significantly increase your kitchen’s value while creating a space that inspires and delights. Remember, the key to a successful kitchen upgrade is finding a balance between functionality and aesthetics, making your kitchen a true reflection of your lifestyle.

Lighting is an essential element in any kitchen design, and it can greatly enhance the overall value and functionality of the space.

LUXURY RANGE COOKERS

Offering a combination of meticulous craftsmanship, excellent performance and bespoke design options, La Cornue’s cookers and cabinetry are ideal for cooks with a love of fine food, entertaining and a touch of culinary theatre. La Cornue is also a popular choice among the world’s leading chefs for their personal kitchens.

Ovens are the cornerstone of La Cornue’s expertise, and the brand offers clients a host of options that can be tailored to their culinary requirements. The culmination of more than 100 years of development, the prestigious Château collection features a vaulted oven design inspired by the tunnels of the Paris metro. This unique shape allows air to circulate evenly, locking in cooking juices and intensifying flavours.

Every aspect of La Cornue’s collections is crafted with uncompromising attention to detail and the finest materials. Clients can choose from numerous oven and cooktop configurations, selecting elements such as high-performance gas and electric cooktops with teppanyaki and lava-stone rock grills. The Château collection even includes a Flamberge rôtisserie which is perfect for cooking everything from whole chickens to fish and fruit – a culinary spectacle sure to impress any guest.

Every aspect of La Cornue’s collections is crafted with uncompromising attention to detail and the finest materials.

Working with La Cornue, clients can also create made-to-measure Château cabinetry and statement islands in the brand’s distinctive enamelwork, perfectly complementing their luxury range cookers and creating spectacular kitchens that are a joy to entertain in.

Exceptional performance is matched by superb aesthetics. Handmade in France and manufactured exclusively to order, the Château range is available in more than 8,000 colours and configurations. Stylish metal trims in finishes including brushed stainless steel, matt bronze and polished copper give La Cornue’s range cookers and hoods a luxurious finish, and the distinctive enamel exteriors can even be created in custom-made colours.

For those looking for the ultimate in luxury, the Château Suprême collection is internationally renowned designer Ferris Rafauli’s exquisite reimagining of the Château range. Designed with painstaking attention to detail, only the very finest materials – enamel, walnut, brass, leather etc – have been used in this coming together of two style icons.

La Cornue aims to bring any culinary dream to life, offering everything a discerning cook could need. It’s no surprise that La Cornue’s customers have always been the brand’s best ambassadors. www.lacornue.com

Established in France in 1908, La Cornue is renowned for its luxury range cookers.

For more information and distributor details please visit www.lacornue.com or contact us at a.table@la-cornue.com. Find more kitchen inspiration on Instagram @lacornueofficial.

AUTHENTIC RENOVATION

Reconstruction of the Former InterContinental Hotel

The former InterContinental Hotel, built between 1968 and 1974 under the direction of Karel Filsak in the historic centre of Prague, is one of the supreme examples of Central European brutalist architecture. Thanks to the involvement of a number of teams of artists and craftsmen, it is one of the most representative buildings of its time, both in terms of its exterior and interior. The ongoing renovation is in the process of completing the first phase and is building on this line with the aim that the building can once again respectably frame the best of past and contemporary art and craftsmanship. On a technical level, it removes the effects of the original flaws and the devastating interventions of the past decades using custom-tailored techniques. This will make it possible to preserve the building’s unmistakable character while taking into account the technological and environmental requirements of the 21st century. The wider neighbourhood revitalisation project then seeks to restore broken urban connections and to place the site on the cultural and social map of the city.

“The building and its details are as universal as they are authentic, as international, reflecting the trends of brutalist architecture, as they are

contextual, based on a good knowledge of the environment of Prague and its historical architecture,” says the author of the project, architect Marek Tichý, emphasizing the uniqueness of the concept of the building, which was unfortunately not attended to with honesty nor thoroughness at the implementation. Due to the poor quality of the original construction work carried out during the high times of socialism, as well as to insensitive interventions, especially in the 1990s, the hotel has been in bad condition both in terms of statics and interior and exterior parts. The extent and demands of the repairs became apparent gradually as the damage and its often makeshift solutions were uncovered. “The building seems to have been planned with a lifetime of a standardized fifty years, with no regard for the economics of its operation, repair and maintenance requirements, starting with the fundamental defects of the reinforced concrete skeleton, ending with geometric inaccuracies that are tens of percent away from the tolerance specified by building standards. One of the main masses of the building is tilted by an incredible 19 centimetres from the vertical plane,” Tichý says about the building’s condition. Together with experts from a number of professions, with the support of the project’s investors, they decided to

seek methodologies to restore modern materials, structures, and elements whose expiration date had passed in order to preserve what was most valuable.

Rescue of post-war architecture

These restoration procedures can become teaching material for working with the stock of post-war architecture and contribute to investors’ inclination to transform and find a new purpose for such buildings instead of demolishing them. An example would be the removal and thorough analysis of 52 large vertical strips of the hotel’s envelope composed of ceramic segments interspersed with elements of concrete and glass. It was the ceramics that distinguished the building from the typical construction of its time and gave it its unmistakable character. The sculptor Zbyněk Sekal designed this element in the form of a mosaic of clinker-like brick tiles for the hotel. Their authentic replicas were developed and then manufactured in small family brickworks for a year and a half, with emphasis on different widths, textures, and colours.

Completely new techniques were designed and tested by a team of experts led by Tichý also for the purpose of concrete renovation. The diagnosis

of the condition of concrete structures was entrusted to the Klokner Institute of the Czech Technical University. A model of the building was created including data about the samples taken. Repair procedures for typical damage were proposed based on this diagnosis. The rehabilitation work carried out has been fed back into the model and the resulting file will serve as a database for future maintenance. The final number of reconstruction interventions exceeded fifteen thousand. However, even this was not enough to fully remedy the situation and some parts of the building had to be completely replaced, such as the ceiling of the conference hall. Its three-dimensional structure consisting of twenty-four blocks was recreated essentially as a bridge structure with a span of almost twenty-five metres in prestressed concrete and is a geometrically exact copy of the original version designed by architect Jan Šrámek. A number of techniques had to be developed for the visual aspect of the material in order to endow the faced concrete with a consistent tone, including the impressions of the wooden formwork planks, irregularities in texture and certain imperfections of design that are characteristic to the structure. The individual parts have undergone rigorous washing, cleaning of all surfaces, and an almost restoration-like renovation of some parts. “The result is almost invisible to the viewer from a distance and shows the building in its original strength and expression of its brutalist architecture,” Tichý concludes.

Showcase of art and design

Concrete, the characteristic basic material, is complemented by glass and wood in various forms. The interior elements and artworks of the hotel, which was conceived as a “Gesamtkunstwerk”, i.e., an object artistically designed in every detail, are undergoing restoration. However, many of them have survived only partially or not at all. As a result, several predominantly family-run artisan companies with a long tradition as well as renowned contemporary artists have been involved in the entire process.

For example, the crystal chandeliers by artist René Roubíček, evoking the motif of nature, which is interwoven into the artistic concept of the entire hotel, were faithfully restored by the glass studio Bejvl. The key to the restoration of the extremely complex structure consisting of fragile glass rods intricately arranged around a special metal structure could only be found by studying sketches, models and records preserved in the artist’s studio as well as through interviews with colleagues and family.

A series of 24 luminaires will complement the concrete ceiling of the conference hall. Wood will return to the interiors in the form of a composition of column sculptures – Enchanted Forest – by sculptor Miroslav Hejný and ceiling carvings based on guild coats of arms by Čestmír Kafka. Metal chandeliers in the form of clusters of golden bubbles by Czech sculptor Hugo Demartini will return to the reopened rooftop restaurant.

Sustainability even in the historic centre

The reconstruction also brings a new technological layer, which is unprecedented for a historic building in the city centre. The distinctive green footprint includes an increase in the proportion of green, unpaved areas, the addition of water features, fullgrown greenery and greening of roofs and facades. This is complemented by comprehensive responsible water management, including innovative irrigation systems and heat recovery from the domestic water in the gastronomy operation, laundries, and partly in the hotel showers. The energy concept is based on low-emission, renewable sources, including the incorporation of geothermal energy to the extent that, for example, only a small percentage of cooling is produced by conventional coolers.

Linking the old and the new

The renovation is being carried out under the umbrella of the family investment office R2G as part of a project for revitalizing 6,250 m2 of the wider area under the name Staroměstská brána (The Old Town Gate). The plan is to enrich it with new infrastructure in the form of an underpass to the embankment and a safe footbridge not only for parents and children from the primary school on Curie Square, but also with urban furniture, greenery, fountains and spaces for services, shops, and gastronomy. In addition to the renovation of the existing hotel, which will reopen as the Fairmont Golden Prague Hotel, and the adjacent building, the project also includes the construction of two additional buildings extending the line of Pařížská Avenue towards the waterfront. The project is conceived as a coherent whole that will mend the ties broken by the construction of the hotel in the heart of Prague in the 1960s. It will give rise to a fully-fledged urban space that wants to earn its place on the city map and serve future generations of Prague residents and visitors for meeting and leisure.

A square dedicated not only to film

The overall revitalisation of Miloš Forman Square will contribute significantly to this purpose. The intention is to make it a worthy bearer of the name of this significant director as well as a platform for the promotion of film and other cultural industries. To this end, a new format of showcasing film is being created, inspired by the Lumière Festival in Lyon, France, of which the square and the hotel will become

the centre, thanks to state-of-the-art audiovisual technology.

At the time of its construction, the former InterContinental Hotel reflected not only the quality of Czech architecture and applied arts, but also the upsurge of Czech culture in the 1960s and 1970s thanks to the new wave of Czechoslovak film, as well as a number of artists from other industries. After many decades, Czechoslovakian culture became once again known to the world. The ambition of the Old Town Gate project is to build on this idea. The authentic restoration of the artistic heritage and the application of new technologies is possible thanks to an unprecedentedly high investment by the Czech entrepreneurs Oldřich Šlemr, Pavel Baudiš and Eduard Kučera. “This is certainly one of the largest renovations of its kind of the period, a breakthrough in terms of a consistent search for an authentic form of reconstruction in the context of contemporary needs, energy, and operational requirements. It raises a series of questions and challenges for architects and engineers, while at the same time, thanks to the extraordinary financial support, it provides a numerous solutions, suggestions, and ideas for the restoration of modern architecture in general,” concludes Marek Tichý.

www.tak2002.cz

The reconstruction also brings a new technological layer, which is unprecedented for a historic building in the city centre.

40 YEARS

TOU C H IRONMONGERY LTD

www.atouchofbrass.co.uk

210 Fulham Road, Chelsea London SW10 9PJ

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS

One of London’s leading Architectural Ironmongers

Originally called “A Touch of Brass”, TOUCH changed their name in 2003 in reaction to advancing market changes in architectural Ironmongery to reflect the broader range of products and finishes that they sell.

In fact today Touch supply 20 different finishes including Brass, Satin Brass, Polished Chrome, Polished Nickel, Satin Nickel, Copper, BMA, Antique Brass, Black, Pewter, Ceramic, leather, Stainless Steel, Satin Stainless Steel, Gun Metal & 4 different shades of Bronze and the list keeps growing. Whatever finish you require, Touch can help you get the right look.

Touch occupy their recently refurbished showroom at 210 Fulham Road, Chelsea, where they stock and display a vast range of their 5,000 products. With a customer base including Architects, Interior Designers, Builders and private Individuals who are interested in the quality end of the Ironmongery market, the company also have a healthy export market to all corners of the world, namely the Middle East, Europe and the Americas.

Touch Ironmongery’s owner and founder, Bill Benham, has 42 years’ experience in the Ironmongery trade, as does his colleague Jim Haselup. Saleem Qureshi is the newest member of our team and has 21 years’ experience, meaning their knowledge is unrivalled in this industry.

The range of products supplied by Touch date from circa 1640 French (Louise XIV) and cover all subsequent periods (Georgian, Edwardian & Victorian), Art Deco and contemporary pieces also make up the product ranges.

Touch showcases the very best of British manufacturing; the best ranges are still produced in the Midlands by craftsmen in factories dating back 200 years or more.

Touch Ironmongery have recently become suppliers for Designer Doorware (Australia) Who have beautiful products with a cutting edge design Metal, Wood and concrete. We also have the exclusive rights to sell the Olaria (Barcelona) range in the UK.

Olaria make all our bespoke products, they have incredible levels of workmanship.

Touch also sell European manufactured goods which are considered to be of a very good quality.

With trends continuously evolving new and innovative products are constantly under development.

Touch understand that keeping up with the fashion-shifts is imperative in order to provide every customer with the best solution for their requirements.

Ironmongery can be a difficult and complicated aspect of a building project, as a result Touch aim to take this awkward aspect and make it user friendly and clear to understand by offering an on-site service where they carry out a detailed door by door, window by window, room by room Ironmongery schedule, highlighting all requirements and identifying all requirements.

Restoration is a large part of the business Touch will undertake complete Ironmongery refurbishment projects, and can restore old paint covered door furniture to their former glory, looking as good as new again at a fraction of the cost to replace.

For more information about Touch Ironmongery or to arrange a showroom visit please call 0207 351 2255 or alternatively visit www.atouchofbrass.co.uk

BRITISH & EUROPEAN MANUFACTURERS SUPPLYING THE FINEST QUALITY IRONMONGERY

Touch combine traditional skills with modern manufacturing techniques to produce the most beautiful, quality fittings, built to stand the test of time.

As well as specialist bespoke items, Touch supply over 1000 products, available in 23 different finishes to furnish high end residential and commercial properties, royal palaces, government houses, historic castles and stately homes.

Olaria, available from Touch Ironmongery www.atouchofbrass.co.uk & www.olariabarcelona.com

GARADOR OFFERS NEW GENERATION SIDE HINGED DOORS

Britain’s leading garage door manufacturer, Garador, has introduced a new sophisticated sidehinged garage door design that lifts this easy garage entrance style right into the future.

These new precision engineered side-hinged garage doors are a long way from your typical barn door style entrance solutions, and feature a number of exciting new design ideas to enhance usability and performance.

Security is always key and this has been enhanced on these doors by

Turn a new leaf

GEZE has launched Revo.PRIME a new premium solution for revolving doors. The new operator boasts an exceptionally low canopy height, narrow profile systems and an improved running performance.

Providing maximum transparency the Revo.PRIME is perfect for creating beautiful entrances and is especially suited for hotels and offices or any building where a statement entrance is required. With its class leading canopy height of just 75mm which houses the automation it ensures the minimal aesthetic whilst achieving excellent technical functionality. In addition the narrow profiles of just 60mm on the door leaf and side panel create a visually appealing entrance and increased transparency creating a light and airy entrance.

The Revo.PRIME is environmentally friendly as well, the operator saves up to 30 per cent in energy compared

with its predecessor models which is achieved through the drive unit’s reduced power consumption.

Another benefit of the Revo.PRIME is its improved running performance. The brushless direct current motor (BLDC) with 1,000 Nm torque and the enlarged diameter of the door system, up to 3,800mm, ensures ease of access

www.geze.co.uk

hidden hinges and an upgraded 2-point shoot-bolt locking system. Other new features include door stays and weatherproof rubber seals built into the door frame plus an aluminium threshold at the foot of the door, all designed to ensure the British weather is kept outside.

These new side-hinged garage doors have been created for busy people who may want quick and easy access into their garage. Find out more by calling 01935 443722 or visiting their website.

www.garador.co.uk

and meets the demands of today’s architects and designers.

Available in 3 or 4 leaf versions and in a choice of gold, silver and black the Revo.PRIME can be networked to building automation systems via BACnet.

Andy Howland, Sales and Marketing Director of GEZE UK, said “The Revo. PRIME is an impressive edition to our range of automatic operators and one that is sure to delight architects and specifiers giving them the freedom to design stunning entrances.”

To find out more about the Revo. PRIME visit the dedicated Revo.PRIME microsite, see it in action on YouTube or email info.uk@geze.com.

For more information about GEZE UK’s comprehensive range of automatic and manual door closers visit www.geze.co.uk.

Enhancing Property Refurbishment with Strand Hardware: Where Style Meets Practicality

When it comes to property refurbishment, the choice of hardware can make a significant difference. Strand Hardware offers a range of functional and stylish options which add a touch of sophistication to refurbished commercial spaces.

With more than 30 years in the industry, Strand Hardware is a reliable choice for architects and developers. Its products combine great design aesthetics with usability, ensuring that each piece not only looks good but also serves its purpose effectively.

Strand is committed to quality – its products are crafted from premium materials, ensuring durability and lasting appeal. Ranges include: panic hardware (including D-fine which is made from 316 stainless steel), Duoflex folding openers, glass fittings and finger protection devices.

Strand prides itself on excellent customer service. It’s experts work closely with refurbishment professionals, to advise and provide the right solutions to meet the requirements for any given project. This personalised approach ensures that the chosen

www.strandhardware.co.uk

hardware not only meets technical needs but enhances the overall design and contributes to the character of the refurbished space.

This includes opportunities to add a bespoke touch: many products from Strand Hardware’s ranges can be finished in a variety of powder coated and plated finishes – to complement overall colour schemes for a seamless finish.

In the realm of property refurbishment, Strand Hardware proves the importance of well-chosen hardware. By combining practicality with style, it elevates refurbishment projects, adding a touch of elegance that endures over time.

For more information contact:

info@strandhardware.co.uk or call: 01922 639111

INDUSTRY MARKET LEADERS

Celebrating 50 Years supplying architectural Ironmongery to the trade

Established in 1973 by Fred Adams and Allan Muggleton, combining their names to make the FRELAN name, initially as sales agents for several companies and then negotiated with these companies to become stockists and bought their first premises in Stoneleigh.

The business expanded quite quickly and soon they were importing their own range of Ironmongery under the JEDO brand using the combination of their wives’ names Jean and Doris.

Moving to larger premises firstly in Wimbledon and then Sutton they moved to their current premises in Mitcham in 1998.

Frelan is now a 3rd Generation familyowned business with Peter Muggleton and Sue Arnold now running the business with other family members and with 36 members of staff, they are continuing the work of their Father and Fred Adams making Frelan one of the industries market leaders.

All operations, sales, accounts, marketing, and product development are in house in our Mitcham premises with many of the staff having been with the company for over twenty years and with 5 GAI certified members of the team.

OUR MAIN RANGES

JEDO -with over 2000 product lines with a large range of lever, accessories, hinges, and locks with many of our products tested to the relevant standards required in today’s marketplace.

Burlington - a superb range of levers and accessories manufactured in solid brass and available in 6 finishes.

Hoxton – A range of cabinet furniture manufactured in solid brass in all finishes which complements our Burlington range.

Nero – A comprehensive range of black ironmongery based mainly on 304 stainless steel with a Black PVD Finish.

BESPOKE DESIGN SERVICE

We also offer a completely bespoke design service from concept to product including CAD drawings 3d rendering and modelling and engraving.

NEW WEBSITE

Our new website launched in January of this year now enables account customers to log on and check stock levels, prices, order status and to download images and technical details.

Thank you.

We have come a long way from that shop in Stoneleigh to our two warehouses in Mitcham and we continue to improve our products and our services to our customers who have helped us reach this anniversary, a great thanks to you all, some of whom have been with us since the very beginning, and we look forward to serving you for the next 50 years.

www.frelanhardware.co.uk

Our recently installed warehouse management software system has made for a very quick and efficient warehouse operation.

Energy efficient windows and doors

You don’t need to sacrifice traditional appearance to obtain energy efficient windows and doors. The Sash Window Workshop can match any traditional design with double glazed windows and doors, improving the look and warmth of the property.

The Sash Window Workshop were contacted to upgrade the timber windows in a period property in West London. An initial order was placed for two pairs of doubleglazed sashes and a new double-glazed casement window.

The customer was very happy and decided to place additional orders for more work. The work was phased across a further four orders, which included a new French door and replacing the sashes in 7 box sash windows and 2 large bay windows.

Several of the windows were out of square, meaning that excellent attention to detail was required.

After the work was completed, the customer noted that they were:

“Delighted by the reduction in noise and improved insulation. Always a pleasure to deal with The Sash Window Workshop.”

Established in 1994, The Sash Window Workshop has extensive experience replacing and draught proofing traditional timber windows and doors. Where necessary, they can comply with listed building or Conservation Area requirements.

The company offers draught proofing and fitting services in London and Southern England, with a supply only service nationwide.

New joinery is manufactured by The Sash Window Workshop’s team of skilled craftsmen at their workshops in Berkshire. The company uses Accoya as standard, which is known for its stability and durability and comes with a 50-year anti-rot guarantee.

The Biodigester ‘T’ range package sewage treatment plants are becoming the experts choice. Owners are impressed by the limited maintenance required, infrequent emptying intervals, or no emptying at all and the ‘Odour Free’ totally aerobic process.

‘T’ range Biodigesters ‘Total Aeration’ and ‘SSD’ make up a process unique to the ‘T’ range Biodigester product. Where emptying is required the minimum emptying period is 3 years. This provides a major saving in operating costs and helps to keep heavy tankers off the roads.

& industry

The Biodigester ‘T’ range has 8 models for 6-42 people or Population Equivalent (PE).

Larger Biodigesters are available for as many as 500 people in a single tank.

All Biodigesters are suitable for variable loadings.

Full details of the Biodigester range may be obtained from the family owned business, backed by 50 years experience; Burnham Environmental Services Ltd, 27 Brightstowe Road, Burnham-onSea, Somerset TA8 2HW, Tel: 01278 786104.

Email: sales@biodigester.com | Web: www.Biodigester.com

THE MODERN ‘ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY’ ALTERNATIVE FOR SEPTIC TANKS AND CESSPOOLS WHERE ‘MAINS DRAINAGE’ IS NOT AVAILABLE

Freephone: 0800 328 5492

Email: sales@allertonuk.com

Website: www.allertonuk.com

The Dependable Choice in Drainage

In rural areas without a mains drainage system, and where septic tanks will no longer reach environmental standards, Allerton can provide the ideal solution. Trading since 1974, Allerton are leading specialists in efficient treatment systems. They pride themselves on their individual, problem solving approach to dealing with alternative means of treating and disposing of raw sewage.

The Allerton ConSept converts your existing Septic Tank or Cesspit into a fully functioning Sewage Treatment Plant.

Servicing & Maintenance on a wide range of Sewage Treatment Plant and Pump Stations by BRITISH WATER ACCREDITED ENGINEERS.

When Gravity Drainage is not possible choose Allerton Pumping Stations for Sewage or Dirty Water

The eco-friendly way to treat and dispose of wastewater from homes, businesses

THE FLOORING SHOW

Why you should be attending and what to expect

From 17-19th September, the UK’s largest flooring event will return to Harrogate with the biggest show in recent history. Designed with retailers, contractors, architects, specifiers, builders, project managers, and fitters in mind, this is the industry event of the year. So, what do you need to know?

OVER 400 BRANDS

The exhibitor line-up at The Flooring Show is unmatched, with over 400 brands to see all under one roof. Exhibitors include: Abingdon Flooring, Adam Carpets, Ball & Young, Bostik, Cormar Carpet Company, Furlong Flooring, F. Ball & Co., Hanson Plywood, Hugh Mackay, Kellars, Likewise, Moduleo, Oneflor, Victoria Carpets & Design Floors, plus many more.

FITTER OF THE YEAR

It wouldn’t be The Flooring Show without the annual Fitter of the Year finals which will take place on the Sunday and Monday in the King’s Suite. This year the focus is on LVT and the winner will be announced at 4pm on Monday 18th and receives a cheque for £2,000, a trophy and some great prizes including a selection of tools, and one year’s free NICF Master Fitter membership.

DEMO ZONE

The Demo Zone will be giving visitors brand-new insight into the newest floor laying techniques and products. Run by the Flooring Industry Training Association (FITA) and supported by the Contract Flooring Association (CFA) and National Institute of Carpet & Floorlayers (NICF), qualified instructors will host the live demonstrations at a dedicated area in Hall B. Visitors will also be able to ask the experts anything, as they open the stand up to bespoke demonstrations. Visit theflooringshow.com to view the Demo Zone timetable.

WOOL TRENDS CENTRE

Located in Hall C, the Campaign for Wool, working in conjunction with the Wool Carpet Focus Group, will this year be focusing on the theme ‘Keep Warm with Wool’. With ever-rising utility costs the conversation around the benefits that wool can bring to maintain an ambient room temperature has never been more relevant. This creative space will feature wool carpet trends and ranges from the leading wool carpet suppliers.

NEW FOR 2023

New to 2023, The Flooring Show are also introducing the LVT Pavilion, your one-stop-shop to finding the latest and greatest LVT products all in one place. Peruse the most innovative selection of this durable and versatile flooring solution, in a specialised area dedicated to championing the increasingly popular flooring material.

SHOW ESSENTIALS

Dates: Sunday 17 – Tuesday 19

September 2023

Opening hours: Sunday 9:30-17:30 | Monday 9:30-17:30 | Tuesday 9:30-15:00

Venue: Harrogate Convention Centre, King’s Rd, Harrogate, HG1 5LA

The Flooring Show is a tradeonly event and is free for industry professionals. Register for your complimentary pass at theflooringshow.com today.

Designed with retailers, contractors, architects, specifiers, builders, project managers, and fitters in mind, this is the industry event of the year.

The re-usable timber flooring by Havwoods

Delivering the ultimate in wood flooring innovation, Havwoods’ Magna collection is designed specifically for use in commercial spaces, offering high-quality functionality without compromising on visual appeal.

A superior solution for workspaces and retail environments, Magna provides access to underfloor services, reducing downtime for refurbishments, whilst being significantly faster and easier to install than using glue or underlay. The incredible design also provides both a practical and sustainable solution for reusing the flooring as it can simply be lifted, transferred and used in another space with ease.

Each plank consists of an Oak surface layer and engineered core, the magnetised and foam-sealed wood boards provide a secure connection to the supporting pedestal which can be conveniently disconnected using a suction lifter for enhanced access.

Alongside these exceptional qualities, the Magna boards are also available in an array of trend-led finishes across the Havwoods Herringbone, Classic and V Pro ranges. Offering customers the choice to create a statement surface that can be

Renowned as a leader in its field, Havwoods’ unparalleled expertise and depth of knowledge sets it apart as the UK’s prevailing wood flooring brand.

removed and replaced easily thanks to its state-of-the-art system.

Additionally, just like the conventional Havwoods wood floor, the boards can be sanded and maintained in exactly the same way to ensure a long-lasting, aesthetic floor surface. Whether customers are renovating one main space or a larger area, the pioneering range makes for the perfect choice thanks to its durability and diverse colour grades.

Renowned as a leader in its field, Havwoods’ unparalleled expertise and depth of knowledge sets it apart as the UK’s prevailing wood flooring brand. With its ever-expanding international portfolio, Havwoods makes it a priority to look after its customers with their wood flooring journey, providing outstanding consultation services and an incredible range of flooring products, catering for both the residential and commercial projects.

Osmo are the specialists when it comes to an optimal

Osmo are the specialists when it comes to an optimal interplay between wood and coating systems for interior and exterior applications.

SOLID HARDWOOD FLOORING IN PLANK AND PARQUET

Unique luxury hardwood flooring in parquet blocks and planks

Finding your perfect flooring is often hard. You must look for design charm and appeal whilst balancing strength and resilience. Normal flooring options often lack the unique character and design flair that can truly set your space apart.

Our parquet wood flooring collection

At Border Floor, we offer the perfect solution with our collection of tropical solid hardwood parquet flooring. We understand the desire for flooring that blends allure and strength with your unique tastes. Our handcrafted parquet options allow you to infuse your space with intricate patterns and textures. This allows you to create a floor that is both an artistic statement and a functional foundation.

The timeless beauty of hardwood

Choosing your hardwood flooring begins with a consultation, where we explore your design vision and understand your unique needs. We have a large option of patterns, from herringbone to basketweave, so you can browse design choices that align with your needs.

Our team is ready to guide you through the design process, installation considerations, and maintenance that come with beautiful wood flooring. Enhanced aesthetics with the artistry of parquet wood flooring.

Border Floor can offer a bespoke service including a full fitting and restoration service with any finish from traditional wax to a coloured farrow and ball finish.

A sample of our solid hardwood products.

Parquet blocks square edged -

Mandioqueira 300 x 60 x 10 mm

Red Cumarú 520 X 75 X 14 mm

Cherry 400 x 70 x 13 mm

Steamed Beech Rustic 400 x 70 x 14mm

Tatajuba (moral) 500 x 70 x 14 mm

Mandioqueira 520 x 75 x 14 mm

Planks random length - thickness 22mm & 90-140mm wide

Iroko Jatoba Doussie Cherry Maple

JATOBA - SUCUPIRA - Skirting 68x15 mm - Architraves 68x12 mm

MERBAU - Skirting 95x15 mmArchitraves 95x12 mm

www.borderfloor.co.uk

sales@borderfloor.co.uk

Border Floor’s parquet and solid wood flooring is an expression of your unique style.

Ready to transform your home or commercial space with solid hardwood flooring

ROCKWOOL® LAUNCHES RECLADDING GUIDE

ROCKWOOL®

Stone wool insulation manufacturer ROCKWOOL® has added to its suite of industry support resources with the launch of the Recladding with ROCKWOOL guide for specifiers.

Following the ban on combustible materials in relevant new buildings over 18 metres (ADB updated for England June 2022), many building owners are recladding existing buildings with noncombustible materials that comply with the updated regulations.

In addition to addressing combustibility regulations, recladding brings many benefits to existing buildings, including improved thermal and acoustic performance, enhanced aesthetic qualities and the replacement of flat roof systems that have reached the end of their effective operation.

The Recladding with ROCKWOOL guide includes ROCKWOOL stone wool products, such as NyRock® RainScreen 032 and NyRock® Frame Slab 032, which are purpose-designed for ventilated rainscreen cladding. They are also independently classified as either A1, or A2-s1, d0 and therefore non-combustible, meaning that they are suitable for use on buildings that

This guide offers valuable support for specifiers, providing an overview of the ROCKWOOL ventilated rainscreen and flat roof ranges in one place, along with all of the relevant technical information and fire standards data.

are affected by the ban on combustible materials.

With fire resistance designed into ROCKWOOL roof board products, details of ROCKWOOL flat roof solutions - such as HardRock® Multi-Fixare also included within the guide.

ROCKWOOL has a dedicated recladding team in place, reinforcing the company’s commitment to supporting the industry with the remedial action needed to address fire safety and other issues for the thousands of buildings in the UK which fall short of required standards.

Heading up this team is Hedley Thompson, Recladding and Façades Sector Manager at ROCKWOOL. Commenting on the guide, he says: “The recladding sector faces considerable challenges to ensure that existing buildings meet the regulatory standards

required today. This guide offers valuable support for specifiers, providing an overview of the ROCKWOOL ventilated rainscreen and flat roof ranges in one place, along with all of the relevant technical information and fire standards data.”

The guide is the latest recladding resource to be developed by ROCKWOOL, adding to its existing suite of specification materials which also includes its Retrofitting Rainscreen Insulation and Cladding CPD (Continuing Professional Development) which launched earlier this year. The module explains the benefits of retrofitting insulation and clarifies why retrofitting can be better than demolishing and rebuilding from new.

To access the Recladding with ROCKWOOL guide, click here or visit rockwool.link/rr-pr

Introducing: The Recladding with ROCKWOOL® Guide

As the recladding sector faces increasing challenges, specifiers are in growing need of support to ensure high-quality delivery of recladding projects.

The new Recladding with ROCKWOOL® guide will help specifiers to:

Meet modern building regulations with up-to-date technical information and fire standards information

Select new ROCKWOOL solutions to meet these regulations, such as NyRock Frame Slab 032 and NyRock Rainscreen 032

Get access to various technical tools to support ongoing or future projects

And much more…

Download now:

rockwool.com/uk/ reclad-guide

Consort Claudgen launches Consort Connect app

Consort Claudgen have launched Consort Connect app which allows users to have complete control over their heating remotely via their smartphone or tablet. The app is free and downloadable from Google Play or Apple Store. It can control Consort’s WiFi enabled heaters and SL heaters connected to an SLPBWIFI wireless controller. It gives quick access to four operating modes and provides a 7-day timer with twenty-four heating periods per day. It is easy to set up and users can configure the settings of all connected heaters on the app. Users can also view the energy consumption statistics. Other features include a lock function, open window tracking and response capability, and custom automation.

Additionally, the SLPBWIFI controller and Consort heaters with WiFi and occupancy sensor have a self-learning control ability which utilises occupancy and temperature sensors.

For more information, contact our sales at 01646 692172 or visit www.consortepl.com www.consortepl.com

SOUND OF SILENCE

Acoustic art by nature, Sound of Silence designed by Ingegerd Råman.

A TEXTURE RICH FURNITURE COLLECTION

Daval furnishes Hybrid Dressing Room and Home Office Space

Daval, award-winning designer and manufacturer of British-made quality fitted furniture is proud to present its texture-rich furniture collection Langham, seen here in Smoked Oak warm wood finish combined with Langham Beige Silk, a soft linen effect with naturally fibrous surface texture.

James Bodsworth, Design Director at Daval says, “We love seeing local businesses supporting each other and buying British so we are over the moon to see such a creative use of space in Deborah’s home as part of her renovations in her 1950s semi-detached property.

Our design philosophy centres on the fact that every home is a personal and individual place which is why our bespoke furniture collections are designed to be versatile and extremely lifestyle-friendly from inception. As more and more professional couples are embracing the new opportunities that remote working presents, bringing extra value to the master bedroom with dressing room and home office solutions is gaining traction in 2023-4. In fact, we are finding that this desire for a more flexible and sustainable lifestyle goes hand in hand with an appreciation of furniture from renewable sources which is made-to-measure and made in Britain.”

Deborah wanted to transform the space above her garage from two small rooms into one long space, complete with a half-vaulted ceiling when a new roof was installed. She explains “The obvious use of this space was for our dressing room, but we also needed to combine the practicality of having a home office. It really has turned out to be my dressing room of dreams! I was even able to find a special place to house my wedding shoes.”

The design brief was all about celebrating and enabling creativity –both in terms of Deborah’s business and her passion for fashion – so the classic wood effect of Smoked Oak with a must- have linen-effect finish in Beige Silk was the ideal combination for a deluxe, neutral space. In addition, the dressing room/home office is fully on board with this year’s trend for sophisticated, tailored furniture solutions which optimise indulgence and self-care. The floor-to-ceiling

cabinetry comprises wardrobes, deep drawers, and an overhead cupboard so Deborah and her husband can store clothes, luggage and business essentials quickly and easily.

Simon Bodsworth, Managing Director at Daval says, “Attention to detail is everything – especially in a dualpurpose room – which is why our storage personalisation options are limitless and range from premium leather drawer inserts for watches, drawer dividers for ties and scarves and smoked glass display shelves to highlight keepsakes and wedding photos. The desk area is designed with

extra deep drawers so Deborah can keep her paperwork and projects in order and have enough space to work on her laptop as and when required.”

Inspired by the plush style and timeless charm of the iconic Langham hotel, Langham fitted cabinetry delivers the ultimate in bedroom and home office luxury for the discerning homeowner and is priced from £11,000+vat.

For further information, please contact Daval Furniture:

t 01484 848 500

e enquiries@daval-furniture.co.uk

w www.daval-furniture.co.uk

Our design philosophy centres on the fact that every home is a personal and individual place which is why our bespoke furniture collections are designed to be versatile and extremely lifestylefriendly from inception.

FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH

Bowen drives significant growth in the contract sector

The Julian Bowen business continues to go from strength to strength and they are now seen as one of the key suppliers to the contract sector, partnering with key providers to offer a flexible product fulfilment service. They are clearly well established, highly regarded and have developed a reputation as a reliable source for delivering a complete package to meet the customer requirements. They pride themselves on offering bespoke furniture and installation solutions collaborating with clients to meet their specific demands. This has come about through ensuring that every project is tailored to suit the client’s requirements with the upmost attention to detail, from receiving the client brief, critical path planning and fulfilment, setting the benchmark for the finest quality and service in the contract industry. They have a huge choice of products from their standard range but they can also work with bespoke briefs across all categories of home managing more complex solutions to ensure customer satisfaction.

Emmett Lenaghan comments; Every project and client no matter how big or small, including Build to Rent, HMO, Student Housing, Private Rentals is handled by an expert team and managed to ensure complete satisfaction. Working closely with clients ensures that each project receives the individualised attention it deserves.

This is supported by a heavily invested supply chain incorporating an experienced in-house buying and design team, with domestic and international Quality Control teams who work in close partnership with a select group of leading manufacturers. Julian Bowen has a profound passion for all things design with a continually growing product pipeline based on the most recent technological developments and cutting-edge furniture design giving you the best available on the market. They are an FSC-certified company committed to only working with suppliers using sustainable raw materials.

They have forged an impressive new product development capability which

has created a platform for significant growth and an enhanced customer proposition with a huge focus on FSC, reclaimed materials and a robust sustainability policy. The recently launched FSC Mallory Oak bedroom and dining collections has been a great success offering both exceptional value for money and classic timeless styling. Also, the stunning reclaimed and FSC Chatsworth extending dining table, Bench set with the Woburn fixed table, bench and occasional pieces, the country rustic style of these ranges reflects the growing trend in the marketplace for products sympathetic to the environment with unique characteristics.

Emmett continues “Our sustainability ambitions and commitments are in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals while our membership with FIRA and SEDEX reflects our commitment to remain at the forefront of industry developments and we firmly adhere to ethical and environmental standards across our operations and supply chain”.

Product development is backed up by a continuous ongoing investment programme across the business in their marketing support, customer service, supply chain management and IT infrastructure to maximise business efficiency through automation from

stock feed management to ordering and distribution. This is further enhanced with tailored individual solutions with the new self-service customer portal, which enables customers to log on and have access to all their details including; live-stock, outstanding invoices, product details and ability to order products at any time. A huge flexible benefit to customers.

Huge attention has been paid to supply chain & stock management to mitigate overstocks and warehouse space constraints which gives them the enviable position of having the optimum stock with sufficient capacity to meet their aggressive new product launch plans for 2023. Julian Bowen’s emphasis upon bespoke solutions and customer support has been a key factor in the development of its successful Direct Container business, which offers a well-managed one-stop solution from product development through quality control, shipping and in-bound distribution and ongoing stock management support, while leveraging the firm’s significant buying power to its customers’ advantage. As across the whole business, the emphasis is upon making the buying process as easy, efficient and pain-free for its customers as possible.

Working closely with clients ensures that each project receives the individualised attention it deserves.

Julian

HYPERION TILES

Add perfection to your floor with the latest parquet from Hyperion Tiles

Family-run, independent online tiles specialist Hyperion Tiles is embracing the new trend for timeless parquet flooring with their comprehensive collections, all of which can add significant value to your home. This type of wood flooring is created by laying tiles in a series of geometric patterns and looks spectacular.

Our director Richard Skeoch explains: “If you want to add interest and impact to a room, which will stand the test of time, there’s no better way than with parquet flooring. This style can look just as good in a period property as it could in a contemporary setting. This flooring is strong, hard-wearing and makes a great choice for high-traffic areas, such as hallways and reception rooms.

“At Hyperion Tiles, we offer hundreds of different types of parquet flooring, in terms of material, size and colour. Probably the best-known parquet pattern is the single or double herringbone, but parquet can offer endless options so, ultimately, the choice is yours.”

Our highly skilled team is available to offer expert advice, such as technical know-how and in-depth parquet flooring knowledge, to journalists, homeowners, designers, specifiers and architects. You can peruse and buy comprehensive collections of more than 15,000 types of tiles, flooring and wall panels and bathroom accessories for residential and commercial projects online or simply visit us at our Ascot showroom.

To discover how to pick the right parquet flooring to suit you, visit our blog: www.hyperiontiles.co.uk/ blogs/news/how-to-pick-the-bestparquet-flooring.

www.hyperiontiles.co.uk

Probably the best-known parquet pattern is the single or double herringbone, but parquet can offer endless options so, ultimately, the choice is yours.

Workspaces that simply work

Multi Award-Winning Office Design, Refurbishment and Fit Out Specialists

Office design

With the landscape of the workplace changing, DSP (Interiors) Ltd are your partner to create a workspace that will entice staff back into the office.

Our award-winning team will guide you through contemporary office design strategies such as agile working and biophilia to provide an environment that will boost productivity, raise employee morale and enhance staff wellbeing.

Flexibility, sustainability, and highly connected spaces which provide the right balance of acoustic comfort and privacy, whilst encouraging collaboration, are key to creating an office that supports a task-based approach to work.

Our expert team of designers, skilled fitters, engineers and project managers have you covered through the entire process from initial consultation to final completion, taking the hassle out of your next project.

NEON LIGHTS

Kabelovna Studios

Kabelovna Studios are located in a former electrical cable-making factory in the district of Holesovice, in the heart of Prague, Czech Republic. The facility, which was constructed in 1908, is a part of Prague’s workers’ colony from the 1870s.

Since then, the area has developed around the former factory, while preserving the industrial atmosphere that exists within the city block that houses it. The hall in which the studios are set brings together several artistic entities: a fashion designer, a painter, a screen-printing production business, and lastly the recording studios, thus creating a vibrant creative environment.

This is a new concept for what the post-production and music recording environment could look like: studios that connect an authentic industrial aesthetic with natural elements of light that beam through large skylights and well-placed glass partitions. All while the restored brick walls of this former factory not only work perfectly with the acoustic requirements of a modern recording studio but completes the space beautifully. Not to mention, these walls are complimented with the diffusing properties of acoustic panels and by the five-meter tall, sloped ceilings.

The “living room” is dominated by a Bomma Orbital chandelier which floats above a massive wooden table which further enhances the sense of height in the space.

Entranced by the location’s strong character and genius loci, the architects decided to highlight it as much as possible. A new beige anhydrite floor unifies the space and allows the walls and other existing textures and elements to become the focal point. Black was used for the new modern inserts - such as the doors or technical equipment, but also to act as a background for the older furniture pieces and the customdesigned light fixtures.

The spatial organization is simple and intuitive. It starts with a large gathering room, or rather the studio’s living room which is located in the highest area of the hall. It welcomes guests with a reception table, a seating area, and a kitchen line, while the recording studios are accessible behind partially glazed doors.

The “living room” is dominated by a Bomma Orbital chandelier which floats above a massive wooden table which further enhances the sense of height in the space. The plants, which freely establish themselves over the black

walls, separate the reception from the rest of the hall’s inhabitants and are housed in carefully concealed planters. Each recording studio is equipped with its own white voice-over booth.

The refurbished furniture and the overall composition of the space create an inspirational yet cozy atmosphere. The seating is a combination of recycled leather seats and black leather armchairs from the 1970s. The foldable seats, previously used in a real theater, are placed in the studio’s “living room” to encourage more guests to be a part of the inevitable parties.

The neon lights, designed by the architects, are also a nod to the studio’s function. A visual of the large warm sound waves that dominate the ceilings of the recording studios and constantly change as they move through the space. These delicate structures are adorned by a neon number assigned to each studio and invite the artists to explore the room.

Wall beds - maximising and multi-purposing our precious living space ex stock in UK and around the globe

Wallbed Systems Ltd. offer an exclusive and versatile range of high-quality wall bed hardware designs. Designed for hotel rooms, micro-apartments, small bedrooms, a home office and student accommodation, our wall beds provide hybrid living, working, studying, sleeping and storage areas, fully maximising the space available.

Wall beds have never been easier to order, build and install and have a tiny footprint. All models include our robust bed counterbalance mechanism (SBLM) and are complete with contract level finishes and strength, all using our safe and reliable spring system, needing only finger-tip effort.

The NeXT Bed™, Alpha Bed™, Beta DIY Kit, and Studio Desk by Wallbed Systems Ltd. provide huge scope for rethinking the way we live, work and sleep.

The Alpha Bed™ utilises rolled section steel for strengthening the wallbed front panel and includes supports to ensure maximum support whilst never compromising on balance nor comfort.

Our Studio Desk™, compatible with the Alpha Bed™, functions as either a work surface and integrates directly into the wallbed. Desktop items remain undisturbed while the bed is up, or in use. The Beta DIY kit has been developed specially for cabinet makers, and other trade professionals who require an affordable, compact, safe, reliable, and easy to operate system to produce any size of professional wallbed.

A wide range of UK / EU / US sizes are in stock and available in any sized project volumes worldwide. Talk to us today about our range of wall bed mechanisms and associated products.

Full drawings of cabinet requirements are included and give you the ability to customise your own design. Many designs of finished product are also available.

Instant solutions with or without cabinet, installed on day of arrival, and in stock now.

Tiny footprint, fingertip control. Safe spring support system. Available in most countries around the world – just add the creativity to make the space you need.

Free advice and ideas/designs

Wallbeds were never this easy to order, build and install, so we created

BE PREPARED FOR LANDSCAPE 2023!

This year, the show welcomes hundreds of companies that will be exhibiting new products and solutions that will most definitely up your business game! With more new exhibitors than ever before, the show provides the opportunity to source exciting products that are brand new to the market and also network with other top professionals to discuss and discover the latest ideas in the industry.

Alongside the exhibition, LANDSCAPE provides other fantastic features that will keep you busy across the two-day event. The show has secured over 100 incredible speakers that are keen to share their knowledge and expertise. These established professionals will host 40 free CPD accredited seminars as well as 24 ‘How to Theatre’s’ that offer informative discussions on important topics across the industry as a whole. The show also provides the opportunity to listen in on interview sessions with key players held at the central bar

Join thousands of other professionals as they share, meet, talk, learn, educate, inform, debate, inspire and connect at LANDSCAPE.

area in a more informal setting. Each session has been selected to ensure that the subjects covered are interesting and relevant to the industry in 2023. The well-crafted seminar programme exists to educate, inspire and connect professionals and provide a setting to share ideas and knowledge that will aid future projects. The team at LANDSCAPE carefully curates the twoday show to appeal to all aspects of the industry.

Join thousands of other professionals as they share, meet, talk, learn, educate, inform, debate, inspire and connect at LANDSCAPE – The Industry Trade

Show in Hall 3 at the NEC, Birmingham on the 27th & 28th of September 2023. With something happening at every minute of the show, the show is positively packed with things to do and seminars to choose from. So, mark your calendars and make plans to attend the upcoming show. Entry to the show is free and guarantees you access to the exhibition hall as well as all of the seminars.

For more information or to register to attend the trade show of the year, please visit www.landscapeshow.co.uk

See you there!

LANDSCAPE is established as the essential, industry-leading event for architects and interior designers that are involved in some of the most prestigious and valuable projects in the UK and beyond

BEAUTIFUL & FUNCTIONAL

Unique sculptures, planters and furniture, handmade in England

Villiers design and creates beautiful furniture and works of art. Built with the finest materials and superb craftsmanship, pieces are individually made to last more than a lifetime.

Venturing into the great outdoors, the latest Villiers work features exquisite sculptures and large planters — launched this year and available in zinc and stainless combinations as well as rust and stainless steel finishes. Designed to breathe new life into external spaces, the materials are chosen so they can evolve with time and exposure to the elements – each unique to its surroundings.

Every Villiers piece is made to order, whether working to an existing design, or a one-off bespoke commission. Designs can be customised with different colourways, shapes and sizes, planters can be supplied with trees, adding the final flourishes to achieve a signature look.

With well-honed artisanal skills, Villiers combines traditional methods and machinery with modern tools and technology. One of the most valuable machines in the workshop is a 100-yearold power hammer, and blacksmithing is an integral part of the production process – an ancient metal working skill that they are keen to keep alive through the specialist expertise of the team.

Alongside the new outdoor collection are beautiful dining and console tables,

mirrors, lighting, and modern metal furniture, each designed to complement elegant and aesthetic interiors. Villiers has built an outstanding reputation over 30 years, with classic and contemporary pieces displayed in the finest hotels, private residences, yachts and luxury spas across the world.

Villiers will be exhibiting at Landscape, the industry trade show at NEC Birmingham, 27th and 28th September 2023.

The new collection of planters are currently displayed at the flagship Linley store in Belgravia. You can view a selection of sculptures and furniture online at www.villiers.co.uk and keep up to date with the latest designs and works in progress on Instagram @villiersfurniture.

For enquiries and further details about Villiers, please contact the team at hello@villiers.co.uk or telephone 01799 516680.

With well-honed artisanal skills, Villiers combines traditional methods and machinery with modern tools and technology.

HANDMADE TO ORDER & BUILT TO LAST

UNIQUE FURNITURE & SCULPTURES

Dedicated to making high-quality furniture with exquisite details and premium materials, Villiers is handmade by master craftsmen in England and promises to last a lifetime.

Synonymous with elegant, timeless statement pieces inspired by nature, Villiers furniture creates bespoke furniture akin to works of art. Forged sculpture. hand-built designs and custom furniture are all lovingly crated to create one-off pieces that can be found worldwide, from tne finest hotels and private residences to yachts and luxury spas.

HANDMADE IN ENGLAND

Villiers furniture and sculptures are handcrafted from the finest materials and metals including glass, granite, limestone, marble and bronze.

The Villiers design and build signature pieces from a workshop in the English countryside. Combining traditional methods and modern tools. a team of artisans hand forge sculptured shapes to create striking results with a flawless finish.

Beautiful and breathtaking, solid and functional, Villiers furniture is handmade to order and built to last.

For more information on our products, including our bespoke services, visit: www.villiers.co.uk or call: +44 (0) 1799 516 680

Villiers Furniture Ltd

Hatfield Park Farm, Bush End, Bishops Stortford, Hertfordshire, CM22 6NG.

PRACTICAL AND AESTHETIC SOLUTIONS

Plaswood™ delivers a circular and crowd pleasing solution for raised flower beds

A collaboration project between Berry Global’s Plaswood™ business, and ecological transformation specialist Veolia has resulted in the installation of Plaswood™ plastic lumber raised flower beds outside Arsenal Football Club’s Emirates stadium, which have been manufactured in part from recycled seat covers from the stadium.

The project provides an excellent example of plastics’ role in the circular economy, demonstrating how products can be given a useful second life and avoid being sent to landfill.

The used seat covers were collected by Veolia and delivered to the Plaswood™ recycling facility in Dumfries, Scotland where together with other waste plastic they were shredded, reprocessed and remanufactured into high quality recycled and recyclable plastic lumber. The material provides a durable, longlasting and low-maintenance solution for the new raised bed structure.

Plaswood™ is not only weatherproof and moisture repellent, but it is also resistant to oils, acids, and alkaline solutions, making it a good long term reliable solution that will retain its structural integrity whilst reducing maintenance costs many times over, when compared to timber material. The long service life properties along

with material stability and its attractive appearance are particularly important for their prominent positions around the Emirates Stadium.

Just as important, the plastic lumber does not require painting or chemical treatment, because neither the weather nor environmental conditions can damage the highly resistant and durable material.

“The effective recycling of plastic into new products supports companies’ drive towards a circular economy and net zero, and these are also key commitments of Berry’s ongoing sustainability strategy,” commented Katherine Lorek, Plaswood’s Sales Director.

“In addition, this latest project demonstrates the versatility of Plaswood™ in providing practical and aesthetic solutions for a variety of outdoor garden and landscaping applications.”

www.plaswood.eco

The long service life properties along with material stability and its attractive appearance are particularly important for their prominent positions around the Emirates Stadium.

Transform your garden with a Coulson’s Bridge

Coulson’s Bridges, an established family business, have been specialising in the design and construction of arched timber footbridges since 1995.

Placed over lakes, streams, ponds or as a stand alone feature, our stunning bridges add a distinctive eye-catching feature to any garden or outdoor space.

The laminated formation of the bridges gives great strength which combined with graceful proportions enables elegant designs within a functional arched structure.

Based on the classic Monet design, bridges are produced in a choice of timbers and styles including Chinese and Japanese patterns and can be built in any

length up to 40’ (12.2m). With finishes available in a wide selection of colours, this standard range complements most traditional and contemporary garden styles.

All our bridges are hand-built to order, we can construct individual designs to customer specifications in most sizes to fit your particular surroundings, creating the perfect look for your garden.

Designed for straightforward installation, each bridge is delivered as a complete kit ready for assembly on site along with detailed foundation specifications and fitting instructions.

For more information visit our website or call us.

www.coulsonsbridges.co.uk

Coulson’s Bridges Ltd.

Definition: French, literally means ‘sun-breaker’

noun: a device, usually louvered, for shutting out direct or excessive sunlight

BEAUTIFUL ARCHED TIMBER BRIDGES

• Standard styles available

BEAUTIFUL ARCHED TIMBER BRIDGES

• Choice of timbers

❖ Standard styles available

• Any length up to 40’

• Selection of colours

❖ Any length up to 40’

• Custom designs and sizes produced

❖ Choice of timbers

❖ Custom designs and sizes produced

• Contact us to discuss your requirements

❖ Selection of colours

❖ Contact us to discuss your requirements

Tel: +44(0) 1986 875016

Tel: +44(0) 1986 875016

Email: sales@coulsonsbridges.co.uk

Email: sales@coulsonsbridges.co.uk

www.coulsonsbridges.co.uk

www.coulsonsbridges.co.uk

www. SUPPLIED IN EASY TO INSTALL SECTIONS AVAILABLE IN A RANGE OF COLOURS POWDERCOATED FOR PROTECTION

Brise Soleil makes a great architectural feature to any property. It is designed to prevent direct sunlight from entering a glazed area whilst allowing ambient light to flood in.

LIMITED

TARMAC - RESIN BOUND - TAR CHIPPINGS - CONCRETE - PRIVATE ROADS (LANES)

TARMAC - RESIN BOUND - TAR CHIPPINGS - CONCRETE - PRIVATE ROADS (LANES)

CARPARKS - DRIVES - COMPOUNDS - YARDS - BLOCK PAVING - PONDS

CARPARKS - DRIVES - COMPOUNDS - YARDS - BLOCK PAVING - PONDS

TARMAC - In a range of colours including red and green

TARMAC - In a range of colours including red and green

BLOCK PAVING - All range of colours and sizes

BLOCK PAVING - All range of colours and sizes

RESIN BOUND - A good alternative to tarmac, we have a bespoke colour range

RESIN BOUND - A good alternative to tarmac, we have a bespoke colour range

Urna Semper 123-456-7891

DECKING - Unique Indian Sandstone paving slabs PONDS - we build from scratch

DECKING - Unique Indian Sandstone paving slabs PONDS - we build from scratch

no_reply@example.com

If you’re searching for high-quality construction services at extremely competitive prices, we will be able to help you.

If you’re searching for high-quality construction services at extremely competitive prices, we will be able to help you.

There really is no job too big or small, we are always here to help.

There really is no job too big or small, we are always here to help.

As an established family run business since 1995, Hathaway & Lovejoy pride ourselves on building lasting relationships with our customers. H 01444 221231 H

As an established family run business since 1995, Hathaway & Lovejoy pride ourselves on building lasting relationships with our customers. H 01444 221231 H

johnhathawayltd@gmail.com

johnhathawayltd@gmail.com

INDIAN SHIP

Renovation of a functionalist villa

The villa was built in 1936 according to the design of a noted Czech architect Vladimír Grégr, grandson of a wellknown journalist and politician. Built in functionalist style, the villa has significant rustic elements including conical exterior walls, rough dragged work and wooden casing. In the framework of maximum respect to the original character of the house, the modifications include removal of the accumulation of insensitive silt of the 80s, highlighting the unique spaces and architectural details, and adaptation to modern living standards.

Vladimír Grégr’s work has been strongly influenced by his stay in the United States and the inspiration from the romantic haciendas of the Californian movie stars. Based on this experience he started designing aerodynamic functionalist houses. He also started developing a rather romantic shape morphology inspired not only by the mentioned NeoSpanish style, but also by Jan Kotěra. The first opportunity to use his new approach was at Barrandov in Prague, where the Barrandov Film Studios and a sightseeing restaurant were built at the impulse of Havel brothers. The builder and developer Mr. Havel wished for the studios to be complemented by luxury residences built along the narrow Barrandov streets. He approached several architects, among them Vladimír Grégr, who gradually built seven villas in the location. Most likely it was Grégr’s style, that most corresponded both with the romantic surroundings and the taste of the Czech film stars, who wanted to live like their famous Hollywood counterparts. We had the opportunity to participate in the renovation of one of these villas nicknamed Indian Ship.

The Indian Ship used to belong to diplomat Růžička. It is a carefully composed lengthwise shell placed onto the south-east Barrandov slope, parallel to the Barrandovská Street. The interior layout is strongly oriented towards the garden, all the residential rooms – the super-elevated living room, dining room and library on the ground floor, and the three bedrooms and bathroom on the first floor, are facing it. On the other hand, the utility rooms and hallways are Northwest oriented, facing the street, which also shows in the stern character of the street façade.

During the project we tried to preserve all that was important and remove everything useless. The aim of the project was to preserve the identity and quality of the house, while reacting to the needs of the present era.

Based on its exterior character, the villa was listed as architectural monument and we tried to save its unique figure, window panes, façade character and architectural details. At the same time, it was necessary to deal with the building and technical challenges arising from the used constructions and materials of the time.

The house was designed as a reinforced concrete frame walled in with hollow blocks. We performed extensive technical research, measured window and wall heat passage and did thermal photography before we began our work on the design. Our enquiry revealed significant heat bridges caused by the frame load-bearing construction, insufficiently insulated roof and damp basement walls. On the other hand, the window thermal transmission coefficient turned out to be surprisingly good. We approached the renovation based on our findings and with the

improvement of interior environment quality on our mind. The modifications consisted of replacing the original roof structure with a modern one, adding 5 cm of thermal insulation to the façade, and a combination of hydro-insulation and other technological arrangements ensuring the usability of the underground premises, something that was previously impossible. At the same time, we executed energy and economic studies. These determined that a gas boiler would be most efficient for heating and water heating. Heating is provided for by floor heating in combination with tubular radiators contributing to the unique interior character. An air-condition unit was placed into the basement. It should provide permanent ventilation in case of humidity penetrating from the exterior.

Cone-shaped exterior walls, rough combed stucco and oak windows were characteristic to the unique exterior design. Unfortunately, the stucco was badly damaged. Despite all our efforts it was unrepairable, and we had to replace it. Fortunately enough, we were able to find a technical and aesthetic solution that was almost identical to the original, including colour and structure

The aim of the project was to preserve the identity and quality of the house, while reacting to the needs of the present era.

Before the actual application of the finish, we performed numerous test samplings directly on the façade structure.

As was mentioned before, the oak windows of various sizes and shapes are one of the house’s characteristic features. Architect Grégr designed the shapes with regard not only to the interior and its’ views of the landscape, but also to the meticulous composition of the exterior mass. New windows are an exact copy of the original ones, including their surface finish. The metal fittings were restored and used again. The craftsman working on the windows spent over a year at the site, since he had to transport the windows to his workshop one at the time to ensure that the new ones were a truly exact copy.

The house interior suffered from the unoriginal silt and “creativity” of its owners from the second half of the 20th century. We strove to remove this alluvium to emphasize the original very simple but very impressive concept. Changes to the original lay-out were minimal with regard to present functional needs.

A super-elevated living room equipped with a hearth and piano space is in the heart of the house. It mirrors to the façade by its high double wing windows. Connected to the living room are a dining area and a former library that now serves as a bedroom. All the living premises are serviced from the hallway adjacent to the northern façade. Therefore the inhabitants would not be disturbed by personnel. Three bedrooms are located on the first floor. A new gentleman bathroom, that was originally not part of the solution, was supplemented. Very important was the new basement solution. The basement was previously uninhabitable due to severe dampness.

Now it was dehumidified, it is possible to use the underground premises as full-fledged part of the house and thus two dressing rooms, utility and technical rooms and personnel background were established here.

The characteristic design of the entire house is underlined by wooden elements, mostly made of dark mordant oak. We managed to preserve the elements referring to the American inspiration, such as the large sliding doors with a rare “ejector” fitting, unique banister,

hearth or window frame details.

The quality of the reconstruction does not lie in any serious innovations but in the humbleness with which we approached the original design. We endeavored to save the beauty and historic value of the house and at the same time to fulfil the present aesthetic, functional and technical requirements necessary for the full-fledged life of the house and its inhabitants.

www.idhea.cz

EXCEPTIONAL CONTEMPORARY STAIRS

Here at Edge Bespoke, we design , manufacture and site install the highest quality , contemporary staircases for the self build and renovation market. Our staircases are the centre-piece of your forever home, and bring the utmost wow-factor when you open the front door. www.edgebespoke.co.uk

All of our stairs are CAD drawn and designed with the clients involvement , getting away from the tradionional look of a timber stairs and bringing steel, wood and glass together. We are a small family run business with over 25yrs of experience and knowledge in the stair manufacturing market.

UPGRADE DOWNLIGHTS WITH EASE

Save time and money. Use with a range of cut out sizes for extra flexibility and reducing redecorating.

Attractive designer look. Match your install using alternate bezels & replaceable GU10 bulbs with colour, brightness and dimming options.

Recessed for low glare

“blend-in” bezel

profile, lightweight and durable Ultra-thin 1mm

Low 1mm bezel Traditional can design

1. Open the protective cover

2. Prepare the incoming solid wires (0.75 to 2.5mm2 are recommended)

2. Prepare the incoming solid wires (0.75 to 2.5mm2 are recommended)

3. Strip enough insulation to expose 8-10mm of solid copper

4. Push the wires into the connector sockets

5. Push the incoming wires into the slot to ensure a rm grip

6. Tug slightly on the incoming wires to check if they are secured

7. Re t the protective cover

CEDRAL LAUNCHES THE CEDRAL COLLECTIONS

A new on-trend, customer-centric range unified across Europe

Introducing the Cedral Collections. Four unique collections designed to help bring homeowners’ vision to life. There will now be 21 colours, arranged across the four collections, each reflecting a specific lifestyle and outlook. These will be available in the UK and across Europe from September 4, 2023.

Cedral, the UK’s leading provider of fibre cement cladding has launched a new and refreshed collection of colours for its facade range.

Cedral has streamlined and refreshed its palette to keep up to date with changing tastes and lifestyle trends, to provide the variety that homeowners want now and to support the decision process.

Gianfranco Apicella, Head of Exteriors

– Europe, says, “We’ve done this with lots of feedback from our customers, homeowners, to ensure that we keep on trend. We’ve simplified the range to ensure that we have the right colours to meet customers’ needs.”

Dan Frith, Product Manager for Cedral, says, “The new colour collection is two years in the making and marks the first time Cedral will have a unified range and a uniform range of colour names across all of Europe.

Cedral has always been at the forefront in offering homeowners inspiration and flexibility to personalise their home facades. In building the new Collections, we’ve put the customer at the centre. We wanted to help installers and homeowners make more informed decisions in choosing the right look and colour. Developing the new Collections has involved our largest research project ever, looking at colour and lifestyle trends and identifying tones that are popular with specific groups of homeowners. We spoke to homeowners and installer businesses across eight European cities and seven countries with focus groups and curation workshops. “

Cedral worked with award-winning colour consultants, IVISUAL, who brought in colour science as well as an understanding of trends in lifestyle to the collection’s development. IVISUAL Creative Director and Co-Founder, Karine Steculorum, explains “When building a range, the lifestyle is a big part of it. Every lifestyle has its own character and it’s important to have colours in the range that suit them. We looked at gaps in the collection and looked at trends of how we’re living. For instance, research showed that natural colours are gaining popularity and muted colours are less popular now.”

The research showed where Cedral should add colours and which to drop and helped lead the way to introducing nine exciting new colours.

Alexandre Roux, European Brand Manager, Cedral, adds, “The new Collections and the presentation of colours gives good guidance to customers and will help them in the customer journey.”

Cedral’s new colour families, curated across four distinct ways of living are:

• The Design Collection – a monochromatic palette aimed at modern, urbanites. This is the only collection that uses only existing colours and includes the bestselling colours.

• The Natural Collection – a palette guided by nature with colours such as cocoa brown, sand yellow and ocean blue for growing families with a love of the outdoors.

• The Classic Collection – With elegant chalk white, pebble grey and tea green, this collection is aimed at an older family, typically living in the suburbs.

• The Expressive Collection – A rich palette with metal green, brick red and pewter grey, ideal for those wanting to put their own stamp onto an older property and for integrating modern materials in an extension or renovation.

On September 4, 2023, Cedral also launched its brand-new Cedral Visualiser, an app that will make it possible to use augmented reality to try different Cedral materials and colours on projects, so you can help customers specify their new facade in a few simple clicks.

To find out more, visit www.cedral.world.

The new colour collection is two years in the making and marks the first time Cedral will have a unified range and a uniform range of colour names across all of Europe.

Ground-breaking new secret valley gutter shows British innovation is alive and well

GRP manufacturing specialist Filon Products has a long-held reputation as an innovator in the roofing sector, having pioneered the original GRP (Glass Reinforced Polyester) profiled sheets manufactured by continuous pultrusion process in the 1950s. Filon also manufactured the first continuously produced GRP valley troughs as an alternative to costly lead products in the 1980s.

More recently, the company has introduced a ground-breaking new addition to its range of GRP valley gutters. Designed for use with plain tile and slate roofs, the Heritage Valley combines the proven benefits of GRP construction with the classic, heritage aesthetic of a close mitred valley – previously only attainable with lead soakers beneath the roof tiles. This design provides an elegant seamless transition from one roof slope to the next with a completely hidden valley gutter. The only things visible are the tiles.

Not just for heritage projects

The simplicity of the installation of the Heritage Valley has meant it’s also finding favour in a wide range of ‘non-heritage’ applications – in fact, wherever aesthetics is a key consideration. A recent project using plain tiles was a Sainsbury’s convenience store, but it is also perfectly suited to most other flat format tiles including concrete and clay interlocking varieties along with man-made and artificial slates. Another recent project replaced a failed swept valley that used reconstituted stone tiles and gave a beautiful trouble-free solution and appearance to the roof.

Outstanding aesthetics, lower costs, practical advantages

It’s widely known that GRP is much lighter than lead and is completely non-toxic. Also, with no scrap value, it’s not subject to the risk of theft. In addition to these advantages, the Heritage Valley also brings significant cost savings when compared to lead. The material cost of GRP is lower and with no specialist lead working skills required on-site, labour costs are reduced too.

A truly innovative British design that delivers further savings, too

Steve Makin, one of the experienced British design team members behind the Heritage Valley, explains: “The unique, dry-fix ’S’ design of the Heritage Valley maintains a wide drainage channel but has a much narrower span between the tile support ledges. This design eliminates the need for costly valley roof tiles on plain tile roofs. With the short span between support ledges, there are no unsupported small cut tiles or slates, so no additional tile support pieces are required and the quantity of slate / tile and a half going into the valley is significantly reduced: another huge cost saving.” He continued: “Also, no special eaves closures are needed. With no gaps at the foot of the valley to fill, the fascia board is simply square cut to fit the valley trough profile.”

British design and production expertise working together

GRP is an outstanding construction material, but presents production challenges which have until now, limited the design of valley troughs.

Filon’s Technical Consultant, Steve Vickers, has been central to the project since its inception. He said: “Bringing the Heritage Valley to market has involved focussed teamwork. It’s the most complex profile we’ve ever produced. We’ve always encouraged a culture of continuous improvement and openness to new ideas at Filon and this latest achievement is down to the hard work and collaborative efforts of many people.”

Designing tooling to create the unique ’S’ profile of the product, was just one of the challenges faced. Technical Supervisor Matt Camp put the design into CAD format and developed the many different sets of tooling that were necessary to achieve the exact profile required. He commented: “In the early stages, the material simply didn’t behave as we expected it to. Tooling for GRP production can require refinement and adjustment, and this was a particularly demanding product to get right.”

Production Manager, John Charles, was tasked with overseeing production trials at Filon’s Staffordshire headquarters. His faith in the project kept the team motivated throughout a long period of trial and error, which eventually resulted in a viable end product. He said: “There’s often no shortcut with GRP. One of the biggest challenges we faced was the very small time window required to get the material to working temperature. We’ve now firmly established all the production parameters, which means we’re able to manufacture in quantity to our regular lead times.”

Filon: a proud British innovator

Managing Director, Mark Wilcox, concluded: “The Heritage Valley complements our existing valley trough range and meets a specific need in the roofing sector. I’m proud that it further endorses our claim to be ‘The innovator in GRP construction products’ – and I offer huge thanks to the brilliant team that have turned this outstanding idea into a practical reality with a realistic price point”.

For further information, visit: www.filon.co.uk/products/newheritage-valley

THE RCI SHOW 2023

With less than 2 months to go until the Roofing Cladding and Insulation (RCI) Show, at Stadium MK in Milton Keynes on the 18th-19th October 2023, it’s time to register NOW for your FREE ticket!

Brought to you by the RCI Magazine, we will be celebrating our seventh year as the UK’s dedicated roofing, cladding and insulation show with a NEW dedicated Façade’s Hub!

Over the years, the RCI Show has become a key date in the industry calendar for thousands of contractors, installers, surveyors and specifiers, and this year’s vibrant two-day event is expected to attract significant visitor numbers and manufacturers, associations and suppliers who are eager to engage face-to-face once again.

Whether you’re searching for the most up-to-date product innovations and services; the latest news, trends, and best practice guidance; access to thought-leadership content; or you want to extend your network, then the RCI Show can fulfil your goals by reconnecting you with key experts across the entire roofing supply chain.

>> Don’t miss out visit www.rcishow. co.uk to register for your FREE ticket!

Our seminar programme is now live and includes topics such as achieving Net Zero with natural fibre insulation, BRoof4, preparing for Part L regulations, adhering to laws around cladding as well as TWO seminars – one on the first day with experts discussing the responsible actors scheme and the Building Safety Regulator and another on the second day with experts discussing the worrying skills gap and recruiting new blood into the industry!

Also, be sure to check out our newto-2023 Façade’s Hub, where you can see the latest innovations in the sector, talk with façade experts and have a sneak peek at who’s in the running to win the highly-prestigious 2023 Façade Awards UK.

This year the show’s Headline Sponsor is Cedral, specialist manufacturer of fibre cement products for roofing and cladding. Joining them within the exhibition hall will be over 50 other market-leading suppliers including…

Over the years, the RCI Show has become a key date in the industry calendar for thousands of contractors, installers, surveyors and specifiers.

• AT Precision

• Avenir Roofing

• Britmet Lightweight Tiles

• CEDRAL

• CheckaTrade

• CIDAN Machinery UK

• CUPA PIZARRAS

• Cure It

• DANOSA

• Filon Products

• Fix Radio

• Global Self Adhesive Products

• IKON Aluminium Systems

• James Hardie

• Katepal

• Kemper System

• Lamilux

• Lucideon

• MAGPLY

• Master Roofers UK

• Mayan Roofing

• MAYPLAS

• Plastex

• REMMERS

• Safety Fabrictations

• Siderise

• SIG Building Solutions

• STOFIX

• Superfoil

• Swisspearl

• Toolco

• Trueline Expanded Products

• Ubbink UK

• Welwyn Tool

And many more still to come…

Visit the website to find out more and secure your place at the show: www.rcishow.co.uk

Alternatively, if you’re interested in exhibiting at the show please contact Tony Brown at tony.brown@ markallengroup.com or on 07979 506 896. Exhibiting at the RCI Show is the ideal way to meet new contacts, test out new products and boost your sales pipeline for the year to come. Be part of the extensive multi-channel marketing campaign before, during and after the event. All stands at the 2023 show are shell scheme only and the largest stand is capped at 21m², providing a cost effective marketing vehicle for your business.

EUROCLASS A1

EUROCLASS A1

A1 Non Combustible Magply Recovery / Protection Roofing Board

A1 Non Combustible Magply Recovery / Protection Roofing Board

Magply recovery and protection boards have been developed to meet the roofing industry need for a cost-effective, lightweight and fireproof board that will provide an inert and stable separating layer for all types of waterproofing overlay applications. It can also be used as a tough, durable and reusable protection layer over completed installations.

Magply recovery and protection boards have been developed to meet the roofing industry need for a cost-effective, lightweight and fireproof board that will provide an inert and stable separating layer for all types of waterproofing overlay applications. It can also be used as a tough, durable and reusable protection layer over completed installations.

Available in 6mm, 9mm and 12mm thicknesses, to suit both light and heavy traffic applications, the board can be easily cut to fit around penetrations and at abutments and can either be mechanically fixed or bonded into position when used in overlay applications.

Available in 6mm, 9mm and 12mm thicknesses, to suit both light and heavy traffic applications, the board can be easily cut to fit around penetrations and at abutments and can either be mechanically fixed or bonded into position when used in overlay applications.

6mm Magply will achieve B-roof T4

18mm and 20mm also available for roofing.

18mm and 20mm also available for roofing.

Safe Sure Secure

BETTER MAINTENANCE WITH YEOMAN SHIELD WALL & DOOR PROTECTION

In a healthcare environment hygiene is one of the most important considerations.

Protecting a building’s interior with Yeoman Shield’s range of wall & door protection systems ensures they don’t suffer from dents and scratches which can harbour harmful bacteria.

Durable and easy to clean, all Yeoman Shield products are inherently hygienic if they are properly cleaned and maintained. The PVCu materials they are manufactured from are “rigid” and therefore do not support the growth of bacteria or mould.

PROMOTING ACCESSIBILITY

Offering accessibility is a must for the safety of residents in care homes. Our durable handrails provide support for people who need it, whilst also adding a layer of additional protection by creating a barrier between walls and people. Handrails benefit both employees and patients and our Guardian Handrail offers dependable, durable performance in all situations.

Durable and easy to clean, all Yeoman Shield products are inherently hygienic if they are properly cleaned and maintained.

FIRE PRECAUTION

Safety of patients, customers and staff is also paramount and keeping fire doors (an important component in fire compartmentation) up to RRO standards can be achieved by maintaining the doors with the assistance of Yeoman Shield Fire Door Inspections and maintenance using protection products such as door edge protectors, door protection panels and glazing bead protectors. All these products carry fire certification.

SAVING MONEY

This not only ensures the safety of the building’s occupants but can also avoid the costly exercise of replacing damaged doors and redecorating interiors.

Installing Yeoman Shield wall protection products such as corner protection angles and wall protection panels, to protect vulnerable plaster work, is a great money saving exercise by reducing the amount of redecoration and repair work that needs to be undertaken.

A WARM WELCOME

Yeoman Shield wall & door protection products not only protect but can add to the décor of an establishment. With an array of colours, a choice of surface finishes and the ability to add imagery, signage and corporate Logos to our wall and door protection panels and hand/ protection rails, Yeoman Shield can help to maintain a professional and inviting appearance for any building.

www.yeomanshield.com

Care environments can benefit physically, financially & aesthetically from yeoman shiled wall & door protection services

Cardiff Apartments meet BS 8629 Code of Practice with installation of EvacGo

Two seven-storey residential apartment buildings in the cultural and social hot-spot of Cardiff Bay are now protected by evacuation alert systems from UK manufacturer, Advanced.

The EvacGo panels have been installed to meet the criteria set out in the BS 8629 Code of Practice for the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of evacuation alert systems for use by fire and rescue services in England and Wales.

Situated in Cardiff Bay’s Tiger Quay development, Roath House and Queen Alexandra House are a mix of 73 social and market-rented one and two-bedroom apartments managed by Trivallis, one of Wales’ largest housing associations. Trivallis appointed Cardiff-based, Tremorfa Ltd, to complete the installation, requesting that Advanced’s EvacGo solutions be installed to ensure both residential buildings met the BS 8629 recommendations.

With all Advanced evacuation alert systems custom-manufactured to reflect each individual building’s evacuation zones, Advanced supplied two EvacGo systems to Tremorfa complete with 1-loop card, expandable from four to eight evacuation zones. The two systems were installed alongside a combined total of 63 sounders to provide audible warning to building occupants in the event of an emergency.

www.advancedco.com

BLAST RESISTANT LITTER BINS

Traditional litter bins make a terrorist job easy. This is because of fragmentation and the fact that this blast increases the level of injury to passers-by. Energetics Technology's Blast Resistant Litter Bins offer the solution. ETL Bins can be placed into your foyeys, walkways, stairways and outside spaces.

Halo80: Independently tested to stringent UK Standards, it has a high charge capability and it's designed to work even when the explosive device detonates near the side or the bottom of the unit.

TC95: 95ltr capacity, Blast disintegrating lid, all round lateral blast fragment mitigation, and bolt down mounting for extra safety.

THREAT MITIGATION UNITS

A Threat Mitigation Unit is a blast protection box, on wheels, which can contain an explosives devise. Such a devise might have been placed in luggage or sent and delivered in a parcel. Anyone is susceptible to easy access from mail delivery, so these units offer a solution. We have various units but here are two of them.

IU1170: Designed to meet the demands of global couriers during cargo screening, it is ideal for any business receiving packages by courier or through the postal system.

IU1105: Provides safeguarding for small suspect packages, letter bombs, fireworks and explosive samples. Typical uses are in mailrooms, banks, embassies and police stations. Sliding internal box for easy loading and removal of suspect packages.

Technology design, manufacture and sell many blast protection products so call Samantha Bailey

samantha.bailey@energetics-technology.com to discuss your requirements. www.energeticsblastprotection.co.uk or www.energetics-technology.com

Good ‘as is’ Anti-Vandal Cabins

Available for Immediate delivery to site!

Good ‘as is’ Anti-Vandal Cabins Available for Immediate delivery to site!

Here at Britcab, we have a number of good, second hand Anti Vandal Units – available for immediate delivery to site.

Here at Britcab, we have a number of good, second hand Anti Vandal Units – available for immediate delivery to site.

Along with our bespoke New Units, we can refurbish or sell Portable Cabins ‘as is’ - at a vastly reduced rate.

Along with our bespoke New Units, we can refurbish or sell Portable Cabins ‘as is’ - at a vastly reduced rate.

Stock includes the following

Stock includes the following

Storage Containers - 10’, 20’, 40’

Anti Vandal Offices - 10’, 16’, 20’, 24’, 32’

Anti Vandal Canteens - 10’, 16’, 20’, 24’, 32’

Gatehouses - 4’, 6’, 8’

WC Blocks - 4’, 8’, 10’, 12’, 16’, 20’, 24’, 32’

Welfare Units – Static and towable

Welfare Units – Static and towable

Shower Blocks

Shower Blocks

Containex Modular Bays And Much more!

Containex Modular Bays And Much more!

We believe our second hand prices can’t be matched and these genuinely offer a cost saving of up to 80% as opposed to a new build alternative!

We believe our second hand prices can’t be matched and these genuinely offer a cost saving of up to 80% as opposed to a new build alternative!

Whilst we try and keep our website (www.ukcabins.com) up to date, there is a large amount of second hand stock coming in and out so please feel free to get in touch on 01759 301725 or enquiries@ukcabins.com should you have any particular requirements.

Whilst we try and keep our website (www.ukcabins.com) up to date, there is a large amount of second hand stock coming in and out so please feel free to get in touch on 01759 301725 or enquiries@ukcabins.com should you have any particular requirements.

DOMESTIC DOOR AND WINDOW SECURITY AND SOLD SECURE SS 312 & SS 301

PAS 24 has long been the go-to security certification standard for domestic doors and windows. Approved Document Q made it mandatory for builders to provide security in new build homes, and PAS 24 is the easiest way to meet this requirement.

In 2009/10, cylinder snapping became a serious issue in some parts of the country, leading to the development of the SS 312 Diamond Specification for Cylinders for Locks. This allowed locksmiths to offer a serious security upgrade to any door and was the first-ever UK upgrade for high-security cylinders for doors.

Sold Secure (SS) 312 has now been referenced in the latest version of PAS 24 along with SS 301 Specification for Mechanical Security Systems for Domestic Buildings. The reference can be found in Section 4. Enhanced Security Requirements; 4.1.2 Doorsets.

You can choose either:

• a Sold Secure SS 312: 2019 cylinder with a Diamond rating; or

• a Sold Secure SS 312: 2019 cylinder with a gold rating, plus a Sold Secure SS 301; 2015 handle or escutcheon with a minimum Bronze rating.

The latest update to the PAS 24

Sold Secure (SS) 312 has now been referenced in the latest version of PAS 24 along with SS 301 Specification for Mechanical Security Systems for Domestic Buildings.

standard means that products certified by Sold Secure (SS) 312 and SS 301 can now be used to meet legal requirements. This is in addition to TS 007 products, giving you even more options to ensure your products meet approved document Q.

This is the first ever time that Sold Secure specifications have been

referenced in a standard used to meet legal requirements and is a testament to the important work carried out by this independent test lab in helping to reduce crime.

LOVE IT LOCK IT. BE SURE ITS SOLD SECURE. www.soldsecure.com

ISOSONIC SCREED PLANK (ISP)

The Isosonic Screed Plank is high density fibre reinforced gypsum board.

It is hard and water resistant and it can be used on its own as a dry application substitution for wet screeds.

Used in combination with ISORUBBER underlayment it provides a high performance acoustic floating floor system, suitable for use on timber and concrete floors.

ISORUBBER mats are made from reconstituted waste rubber and the fibre for the board is gained from waste paper.

The high mass property of the plank combined with the durable high resilience of Isorubber provides the high level airborne and impact sound absorption of the system.

MAIN BENEFITS

Dry screed; eliminates pumping and drying out time.

Reduced weight and floor thickness

High acoustic insulation performance

Ideal for use with Under Floor Heating; due the boards low thermal resistance

Isorubber is a durable tough material which undergoes no discernible compression or long term acoustic deteriation under design loading.

www.thermal-economics.co.uk

The high mass property of the plank combined with the durable high resilience of Isorubber provides the high level airborne and impact sound absorption of the system.

High Performance Glazing Systems

Introducing our range of high performance aluminium Bi-fold Doors, Sliding Doors, Fixed Glazing and Entrance Door Systems.

Alulux is a UK based family run business. All our systems are designed, engineered and built in-house, and we pride ourselves in providing high-quality products at affordable prices.

We are also able to provide bespoke custom measurements.

Option 1

3 panels folding left or right. 3000mm wide x 2100mm high

Option 2

3 panels folding left or right. 2400mm wide x 2100mm high

Option 3

4 panels (3L/1R) or (1L/3R) 4000mm wide x 2100mm high