Konecranes investigates the hoisting gears of the critical overhead cranes at the Palm paper factory, with Oil Analysis and Crane Reliability Study (CRS) Churning out corrugated base paper: The paper machine 6 (PM6) at the Palm paper factory in Wörth am Rhein, Germany, annually produces some 650,000 tons of the
National building and maintenance contractor, United Living, has appointed former Wates business director Michael Holling into a new role as operations director; covering both the North and Midlands regions. Michael brings with him 30 years of construction and maintenance knowledge, having previously worked at Wates since 1995. Throughout his career
A new building designed by London-based practice, Walters & Cohen Architects, has been opened at Newnham College, Cambridge. In 2014, Walters & Cohen won an architectural competition to design new accommodation for Newnham College, one of the 31 colleges of the University of Cambridge. The original brief was to design
Saracen Interiors is now reaching the end of a substantial fit-out project for Global Technology company Carl Zeiss. The interiors company is transforming c. 43,000 sq. ft. of office space plus undertaking a range of external works at a site in Cambridgeshire to create a world-class lean manufacturing facility, including
The islands of Hawaii are like black pearls in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Most people know that the place is the treasure chest of many natural wonders including black sand beaches, turquoise-colored ocean, waterfalls and chaotic yet beautiful volcanic eruptions. Little did people know that the island-state is
The reason why most people add a single story extension is to create an extra space where you can spend leisure time. Moreover, such extensions also create room for natural light and give you plenty of space which you can use for decoration. However, what you need to understand is
Regardless of whether the building is a commercial one or a house with a unique flat roof, most people know that flat roofs require more maintenance than standard pitched roofs. While it can be easier to build, the flat roof requires more inspections and maintenance to ensure everything functions correctly.
The use of contractors across the construction industry is commonplace as they are hired to complete specialist tasks or seasonal work. However as part of hiring contractors it is important to consider the safety measures and responsibilities across the workplace. By involving someone who is a temporary part of your
FIS, representative body for the £10 billion finishes and interiors sector in the UK, announced the winners of the 2019 Fit-Out Futures Awards which were celebrated at the FIS President’s Lunch in London. Iain Mcilwee, FIS CEO said “the Fit-Out Futures Awards recognise the outstanding contributions and achievements of individuals,
Nestled in one of the North East’s most exclusive suburbs is a luxurious property that is stealing the attention of affluent house hunters. Poppy Cottage, the new property by Developments by Joseph Homes, is located on one of Wynyard Park’s most sought-after plots and is worth a cool £1.2million. Constructed of the highest quality textured brick
Konecranes investigates the hoisting gears of the critical overhead cranes at the Palm paper factory, with Oil Analysis and Crane Reliability Study (CRS) Churning out corrugated base paper: The paper machine 6 (PM6) at the Palm paper factory in Wörth am Rhein, Germany, annually produces some 650,000 tons of the versatile packaging raw material with surface weights of up to 160 g/m2. In order to safely transport these huge paper rolls day and night, the double-girder bridge cranes inside the factory must always function flawlessly. For this reason, Konecranes has closely analyzed the gear oil of the cranes and used the endoscope to look deep inside the gears. Paper remains one of the most important resources for the economy: According to the association of German paper factories, the paper industry sold approximately 23 million tons of paper, cardboard and paperboard in 2017 – up 1.4 percent from 2016. The packaging industry is especially hungry for paper. Sales in this sector increased by 3.4 percent last year alone. This is the area of operation for the paper machine 6 (PM6) at the Palm paper factory in Wörth am Rhein. The 650,000 tons of corrugated base paper it produces each year is handled at various stages by eleven double girder overhead cranes, all playing their own crucial role in the paper production on PM6. In order to safely transport these large paper rolls day and night, the hoisting gears of the eleven cranes inside the factory must always be in top operating condition. For this reason, Palm has asked Konecranes to look at eight of its most critical cranes. Following the results of the oil analysis and subsequent endoscopic investigation, the maintenance experts identified a significant risk to future production and replaced one of the hoisting gears completely. Record paper machine produces around the clock At the Palm paper factory, located in Aalen in Baden-Württemberg, everything circles around recovered paper. Nine paper machines in five factories annually produce approximately 2.2 million tons of newsprint and corrugated base paper. The paper production continues around the clock. Correspondingly high are the demands from the eleven double-girder bridge cranes that have been in use in the factory in Wörth am Rhein since the start of production in 2002. Collectively, they handle and store the completed paper rolls that weigh many tons. “The cranes are in use day and night,” says Sven Bohrer, electrical engineer at the Palm paper factory. “If one should break one day, the production would have to stop, or at least greatly slow down, until the problem is solved. This would cost us time and money.” For this reason, Konecranes has closely investigated the gear oil of the hoisting gears of eight of the eleven double-girder bridge cranes at Palm. Because you can look deep inside the oil, the wear metals and waste substances it contains make it possible to draw conclusions about the state of the entire gear. Nico Zamzow, Vice President Industrial Service EMEA Central at Konecranes, comments on the method: “The oil analysis protects the crane. Any damage can be identified and treated early with its help. Moreover, system operators are able to optimize the maintenance and servicing of the cranes thanks to the detailed analysis report, and thus significantly increase their lifespan.” For the oil analysis at Palm, Konecranes experts took samples from the hoisting gears of the eight double-girder bridge cranes. “The samples are analyzed by our laboratory, which specializes in industrial drive train analysis. Here, the lab staff compares the current state of the oil with the samples taken in 2016 and against the OEM design limits,” says Nico Zamzow. “This way, we also use trend analysis to provide the best possible picture of any change within the condition of the gearbox.” The result for Palm: Seven of the eight cranes were found to be “healthy”, as in the gear oil contained few to no foreign elements or waste substances indicating contamination or wear. However, the gear oil of the automated number 5 crane, used in the roll warehouse, was found to have a noticeable increase in its wear partial count, triggering the lab to issue a “Caution” notification on the analysis report. Nico Zamzow: “Iron particles in the oil can be an indication of increased wear and a deeper look may be required for this particular hoist”. Crane Reliability Study has the solution If the reason for the wear is not clearly identified and removed, the gear may be permanently damaged. “If the gear is jammed while there is a roll on the hook, it becomes very difficult to recover it and repair the crane,” explains Nico Zamzow. In order to determine whether there is already damage, the Konecranes experts used the Crane Reliability Study (CRS). The modular analysis allows them to check safety-relevant components, such as the hoisting gear as well as the steel structure, the motors, and the electrical equipment of the crane. In addition, the maintenance experts pose questions to crane drivers and technicians. The analysis result flows into a detailed report for crane owners – with concrete recommendations for action. In the case of Palm, Konecranes used a high-definition video endoscope to investigate the hoisting gear. “Just like in medicine, we use the endoscope to reach inaccessible places without having to dismantle the entire gear,” says Nico Zamzow. “For the CRS, we use a special, oil-resistant model that was developed for industrial use and can be fitted with different lenses.” Following the endoscopic investigation, the Konecranes service experts are certain: The hoisting gear must be replaced. In addition, the cable drum, the cable drum support, the slip-ring unit, the cylinder coupling, and the motor coupling must be renewed. “Thanks to discovering the wear early on, there was no risk to safety and we were able to replace the old gear with a new one without affecting production,” explains Nico Zamzow. “The benefits of Oil analysis as a predictive maintenance tool for identifying problems early on is proven to minimize
National building and maintenance contractor, United Living, has appointed former Wates business director Michael Holling into a new role as operations director; covering both the North and Midlands regions. Michael brings with him 30 years of construction and maintenance knowledge, having previously worked at Wates since 1995. Throughout his career he has delivered a range of complex housing projects for local authorities and housing associations, including joint ventures and private development schemes. The appointment marks a significant investment in United Living’s growth strategy, to assist with new and existing business opportunities across the North and Midlands regions. Michael will be based in United Living’s Sheffield office, providing leadership across all operational areas as part of the United Living North Leadership Team. The business is currently strengthening its presence in the North and Midlands, having promoted long-serving employee Shaun Pickin to the role of Operations Manager for the Midlands, and last year appointing former Kier and Keepmoat director Helen Francis as Business Development Director for the North. Speaking of his appointment, Michael Holling said: “This is an exciting time for United Living’s growth strategy across these regions and I look forward to leading on the next stage of development. United Living Group has a great reputation across the housing sector and it’s a pleasure to bring my experience to the business. I’m looking forward to working with the team.” Jo Jamieson, managing director for United Living said: “Michael has built an enviable reputation for delivering large scale construction and residential projects with a keen emphasis on operational excellence and truly understanding customer’s aspirations. I look forward to working with him to drive forward our growth plans across the North and Midlands, and to maximise the opportunities in our pipeline.” For more information about United Living: www.unitedliving.co.uk
A new building designed by London-based practice, Walters & Cohen Architects, has been opened at Newnham College, Cambridge. In 2014, Walters & Cohen won an architectural competition to design new accommodation for Newnham College, one of the 31 colleges of the University of Cambridge. The original brief was to design a new 75-bedroom student residence at the southern end of the campus. However, during the feasibility study an alternative option was developed that integrated new accommodation in among the existing College buildings, leaving the beautiful gardens unspoilt. The Dorothy Garrod building comprises a new entrance, a welcoming Porters’ Lodge, conference facilities, a rooftop gym, staff offices, meeting and supervision rooms, 86 generous en-suite student bedrooms, kitchen/social areas with plenty of space to cook and eat together, and a popular new café that invites students to linger, work and socialise. 19 bedrooms and two kitchens in the neighbouring Fawcett building were also refurbished, and the rooftop terrace allows Newnhamites to appreciate their beautiful College from an entirely new perspective. Working with Newnham’s project team, special interest groups, students, staff and Fellows ensured that the building meets the College’s needs and is entirely unique to them. The new frontage creates a stronger presence on Sidgwick Avenue without imposing on the historic buildings and gardens. Landscape works are integral to the design, with the building wrapping around a new courtyard garden, and carefully considered interstitial spaces improve visual and physical links between buildings. Integrating the student residence, offices, porters’ lodge and café in one building has created a stronger sense of community and forms the heart of the College. Cindy Walters, Director at Walters & Cohen Architects, said: ‘It has been a huge honour and privilege for us to work with Newnham College to deliver their bold strategic vision. Since winning the design competition four years ago, we have worked with students, administrators, College interest groups and Fellows to ensure that the new building meets the needs of the College, fits into its very unique context and delivers twenty-first-century facilities. The new Porters’ Lodge and entrance was the greatest challenge. It offers a warm welcome, connects the street to a new garden, connects the College to a new café, conference facility and offices, and contains art and artefacts that are specific to Newnham. In the new entrance we have created a space that could not be anywhere else in Oxbridge or the world.’ Professor Dame Carol Black, Principal of Newnham College, said: “This is a building worthy of celebration, one which gives the students of Newnham College a sense of pride and aspiration. It embraces our glorious gardens, with the new en-suite bedrooms looking out over trees on every side. Our architects Walters & Cohen have designed a building at once modern and forward looking, and in sympathy with Newnham’s original Champneys buildings and gardens. The new conference centre is an exciting venture for Newnham, and our students are delighted by the stylish public café with its space for group working and relaxation.”
Saracen Interiors is now reaching the end of a substantial fit-out project for Global Technology company Carl Zeiss. The interiors company is transforming c. 43,000 sq. ft. of office space plus undertaking a range of external works at a site in Cambridgeshire to create a world-class lean manufacturing facility, including a clean room, where Carl Zeiss will make electron microscopes for sale and distribution worldwide. The fit-out of Building 1030 at Cambourne Business Park covers three floors, and the complexity and specialised nature of the work has just been documented in a new video available to view at https://www.saraceninteriors.com/blog/5583/ Clive Longden, Saracen’s Site Manager, said: “It’s a complex project with some significant challenges, but working closely with our client, the team has successfully met these challenges, and we are now on track for completion and handover on time.” Saracen won the project in a competitive tender against strong competition, further cementing the groups presence in the industry. The team is managing a full fit-out of office space on floors one and two, as well as installing all-new kitchens and breakout areas. The first floor also includes a technical area for research and development that has required particularly careful design. But the toughest challenges have been on the ground floor where building a clean room for the production of the electron microscopes threw up significant mechanical and electrical hurdles as well as issues of coordination that the Saracen team has had to overcome. As well as the advanced M and E work, the project has required the installation of a range of specialised equipment, including cranes. Saracen has also installed an external goods lift as part of the project scope of works. The project came about as a result of significant local business growth together with increased global demand for the products and services of the two Cambridge based subsidiaries of the Global Carl Zeiss group. Carl Zeiss Microscopy Ltd and Carl Zeiss Ltd, wanted to combine operations and move from their two current premises in Cambridge, to a single facility and as a result have signed a long-term lease at Cambourne Business Park Saracen is managing the project so that staff will be able to easily transfer into the newly-revamped premises and to provide Carl Zeiss with room for further future expansion. www.saraceninteriors.com
The islands of Hawaii are like black pearls in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Most people know that the place is the treasure chest of many natural wonders including black sand beaches, turquoise-colored ocean, waterfalls and chaotic yet beautiful volcanic eruptions. Little did people know that the island-state is also one of the best places to look up the clear sky at night. Yup, Hawaii is also the best spot to do stargazing. The unpolluted air and the high elevation of its mountains mean that you will have an unobstructed view of the bright stars and other heavenly bodies visible to the naked eyes or with the aid of sophisticated telescopes. There is so much beautiful Hawaii real estate on market to view these stars. Another reason why a state is a great place for astronomy encounter is that of its altitude. Hawaii is positioned at 21 degrees North Latitude which makes it able to see both the Northern and Southern Hemisphere which makes it the only state in the US which will make you able to see both the North Star and the Southern Cross. If you are planning to visit Hawaii, here are some stargazing activities that you can try: * Check the astronomy calendar of celestial events prior to your visit. Be informed about the perfect date and time to catch astronomical events, including moon phases. You don’t want to miss the spectacular show that rarely happens in 10 or 100 years. * If you will be heading on to the Big Island, find a tour that will take you to the summit of Muana Kea for sunrise. You can also do a warmer stargazing at the lower elevation through a telescope. Or head on to Imiloa Astronomy Center where you can use their telescopes to see a clearer view of the stars and other heavenly bodies. * On Oahu, take time to visit the Bishop Museum and enjoy its planetarium. They also have a website where you can find night sky events in Hawaii. *Visit the University of Hawaii Institute of Astronomy. It has tons of information related to astronomy that will serve as your guide. *Some hotels are promoting stargazing on their rooftop to attract guests. One example of this is the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort in Kaanapali. Scout for hotels that let you experience stargazing in Hawaii. * If you have the money for it, you can rent a barge and experience stargazing in the middle of the ocean. The calmness of the ocean plus the magical sightings up above will make your Hawaii vacation an unforgettable treat. If you are in the market for Hawaiian real estate contact a trusted Hawaii real estate agent.
The reason why most people add a single story extension is to create an extra space where you can spend leisure time. Moreover, such extensions also create room for natural light and give you plenty of space which you can use for decoration. However, what you need to understand is that adding a single story extension is not an easy task, which is why it is advisable that you hire a professional builder. Here are the factors you need to consider when choosing a builder for your project. 1. Certification A professional builder should be trained in order to render out construction services. The only way you can be sure that you are dealing with a certified builder is by checking the license of the expert you are dealing with. Moreover, find out from the Federation of Master Builders whether you are dealing with a registered member or not. 2. Experience Dealing with an experienced builder is better than dealing with someone who is new to this type of work. That is because experienced builders can give you better ideas on how you can make your single story extension more interesting. Moreover, an experienced builder will use the skills that he or she has acquired over the years to get the work done on time. We make it our primary goal to offer our clients solely the service and solution that they need. Based on our experience in the industry, we can make recommendations and project improvement suggestions that will lead to an even better outcome than clients expect. Builders Chester 3. Great Customer Services A profession builder should be able to offer you quality services. They should also be easy to work with since you can only be able to inquire about the project if you are comfortable working with the builder. Besides, being easy to work with the builder should also possess great communication skills so that it can be easy to discuss matters relating to your project. 4. Building Regulation And Planning Permissions The last thing you want is to be on the wrong side of the law for not fulfilling building regulations and planning permissions. However, with the aid of a professional builder, you can make sure that you meet all the necessary conditions before you start working on your project. If your builder is not familiar with building regulations and planning permission, then you might want to find a builder who does so that he or she can guide you through the entire process. 5. Cost Of Hiring A Builder Either you are dealing with a construction company or an independent contractor, you need to understand that different tradesman cost different rates for offering their services. Because of this reason, it is advisable that you get a quotation from various dealers if you want to get the best deal. Moreover, the detailing of the quotations should be the same, if you want to get correct estimates of your project from all the parties involved. By getting quotations from different builders, you will be able to determine, which dealer has the best offer for your project. Once we understand your needs and requirements, we can easily manage the project from beginning to the end leaving you with time to pursue other interests. If you are not too sure about your needs, we can help you find what works best for you. Builders Liverpool 6. Payment Plan Another important factor you need to consider when choosing a builder for your single story extension is the payment plan. After agreeing on the price of the project, it is important that you agree on a payment plan as well. Most builders demand a small upfront deposit, in order to start off the project. The small upfront deposit is usually used as capital to buy some of the materials needed to start off the construction project. Other builders, do not request for upfront payment but instead, they use their own money to buy all the necessary materials and equipment needed for the project. However, once the project is complete, the client is required to cover the total cost used in the project. Therefore, make sure that you get a flexible payment plan from the builder you choose to work with, especially if your project will last for more than four weeks before it is completed. The payment plan should be drafted in form of written quotation and signed by both parties. Conclusion Choosing the right builder for your single story extension project is not an easy task. That is because there are hundreds of contractors who specialize in this type of work and only a few have proved to have the ability to offer quality services. However, by acknowledging these factors, you can be sure to find a reputable builder to help you with this type of project.
Regardless of whether the building is a commercial one or a house with a unique flat roof, most people know that flat roofs require more maintenance than standard pitched roofs. While it can be easier to build, the flat roof requires more inspections and maintenance to ensure everything functions correctly. The most difficult element about a flat roof is knowing when to replace the roof or if it requires a few repairs. This article will provide information on the most common types of flat roof repairs what you need to know. 1: Alligatoring One of the most common indicators that a flat roof needs to be replaced is the maintenance issue known as alligatoring. Alligatoring refers to the case when the asphalt used to build the roof has aged and lost elasticity resulting in a bubble and crack effect – similar to the skin of an alligator. Sadly, this means that the flat roof’s asphalt has become damaged to a state of no repair and will require replacement. Not only are we focused on putting in a good roofing solution that’s going to make clients happy, but we also take the time to help after the job is done. We take pride in the work being completed and therefore want clients to understand how to make sure the quality does not drop in the long-term. Roofers Wirral 2: Moisture And Leakage Another highly common issue experienced by properties with flat roofs is the leakage and lingering moisture. Fortunately, these problems can be dealt with effectively as long as one remains aware of them. As with all roofs, a flat roof develops leaks; however, as it is flat, the water does not have any place to go except straight down. This means the moisture will enter the roof and result in potential fungus and mould. One of the best ways to deal with moisture and leaks on a flat roof is by having it regularly inspected. Each time to you find an issue, repair and maintain the problem immediately. 3: A Buckle In Membrane The majority of flat roofs with asphalt are built in a similar way to pitched roofs because they have an asphalt-soaked membrane, and this membrane is spread across the top of the building. However, unlike the pitched roofs, the membrane of the flat roof is in a single piece and placed along the roof. This means that as time progresses the roof will settle and shift along with the property structure. Any excessive movement can result in buckling in the asphalt membrane, which can lead to breaks in the roof. A roof that buckles is not secure to live under and can lead to future problems. This is why it is best to have the membrane replaced as soon as it shows any buckling. 4: Pooling Water Due to the roof being flat there is nowhere for moisture to run when it rains. Moreover, when the house settles the roof can shift slightly, meaning it may not be as level as it was originally. This can cause water to pool in dips and divots. While the majority of materials are manufactured to hold up the water, the pools must be drained as soon as possible and check that the water does not seep into the lower layers of the roof. If pooling lingers, it is likely to deteriorate the exterior of the roof; thus shortening the lifetime of the roof. 5: Cracking Roof Flat roofs have a tendency for pressure to be exerted on them because they are not slanted. In some cases, the pressure can be built up as if the stress and pressure can be excessive. It can cause the roof to crack, and if it does crack you should contact a professional immediately. In addition, exposing the house to precipitation can result in roof cracking. This shows that the roof is structurally compromised and it is time for a new one. The majority of roofing work is carried out while the structure below is still occupied. That’s why we schedule and conduct our work with the utmost flexibility to suit your specific needs. We want to do our jobs while causing the minimum amount of disruption in your day-to-day life. Roofers Chester 6: Flashing As with various roofing materials, the asphalt flat roof tends to expand and contract with changing weather and temperatures. As time progresses, this continued expansion and contraction can result in flashing to pull away from the corners and edges of the roof; thereby, resulting in leaks and moisture being trapped in the roof. The best method of dealing with this issue is by inspecting and maintaining the roof regularly. When the leaks are significant or you have deterioration in the flashing, you will be required to replace the roof. If you have questions regarding the condition of the roof, or you think it is time to have the roof inspected, you should contact a roofing professional.
The use of contractors across the construction industry is commonplace as they are hired to complete specialist tasks or seasonal work. However as part of hiring contractors it is important to consider the safety measures and responsibilities across the workplace. By involving someone who is a temporary part of your team, without the correct training and safety awareness there is greater risk of accidents. What is a Contractor A contractor is someone who has been hired for a specific job and does not work regularly for an employer. They may be brought in to undertake tasks which are highly specific or simply when more staff are required. Contractors are commonly used across the construction industry to complete bigger tasks where a variety of skills are needed. The Law Under health and safety law both the contractor and the business have obligations and duties. To ensure the safety of any personnel carrying out work, full risk assessments must be undertaken, and adequate training provided. All parties should be in full cooperation and be aware of any health and safety information for the site such as correctly identifying safety signs or understanding set procedures such as lock out tag out or one man one lock. There are a number of health and safety and construction regulations which must be adhered to, ensure you fully understand the law before bringing a contractor on site. Safety Procedures and Managing Contractors As part of hiring contractors, you should have pre-defined steps in place to ensure their safety when working on site. Here are some of the steps which should be undertaken: Plan Ahead Prior to employing a contractor, you should plan ahead for any training or health and safety measures that need to be in place. You should create a checklist to assess your health and safety management and if it is suitable to employ contractors under your current guidelines. As part of this planning process you should also clearly define the job at hand and assess any risks associated with it. Hiring When hiring a contractor, you should ensure this is the correct person for the job. Make sure to check credentials and ask for evidence of work. When you have successfully chosen your contractor ensure you show them around the site and make them aware of any health and safety procedures. Working When working on site it is important that the contractor adheres to safety measures such as signing in and out and wearing the correct safety equipment. Review Both during and after the work, reviews should be undertaken to ensure the work is of high standard and the contractor is correctly adhering to safety guidelines. Working with contractors is inevitable in some industries and it is important that considerations have been made for their safety in the workplace. Ensure you know the law and have health and safety procedures in place prior to hiring a contractor and any relevant training is provided before work is undertaken.
FIS, representative body for the £10 billion finishes and interiors sector in the UK, announced the winners of the 2019 Fit-Out Futures Awards which were celebrated at the FIS President’s Lunch in London. Iain Mcilwee, FIS CEO said “the Fit-Out Futures Awards recognise the outstanding contributions and achievements of individuals, who have demonstrated excellence, dedication and commitment to their personal development, organisation and the finishes and interiors community. All the nominees were outstanding candidates and it was an honour to meet, host and award them” The event saw 300 FIS members and their guests come together to see the winners revealed in the delightful surroundings of Plaisterers’ Hall. Congratulations to all the winners and the shortlisted entrants. Apprentice of the Year Award WINNER: John Taylor – Stortford Interiors The judges commented that John was clearly a talented tradesman and that he was also changing attitudes internally about the positive benefits that an apprentice can bring to his company. John was also praised for his understanding of the importance of his work and the need to follow guidelines. He continues to develop as a fantastic example of why the modern apprenticeship system will shape our industry for the future. The award was presented by Sarah Beale, Chief Executive of CITB and Iain Mcilwee CEO of FIS. RUNNER UP: Danny Beadle – Pexhurst Services Danny was recognised for his commitment to all aspects of the day-to-day site role, as well as his dedication to learning and improving his skill-set. Future Leader Award – sponsored by CCF WINNER: Simon Broggio – Meronden Simon is an exemplar of how someone can enter the construction sector as a labourer and with the right attitude and work ethic work their way up to take on a Level 6 Construction Site Managers course. He is already a natural leader and an asset to the finishes and interiors sector. The award was presented by Dean Pinner, Managing Director of CCF Ltd and Iain Mcilwee CEO of FIS. Olton Bridge, 245 Warwick Road Solihull, West Midlands B92 7AH Telephone 0121 707 0077 Email info@thefis.org Website www.thefis.org RUNNER UP: Richard Austen – Stortford Interiors Richard was awarded runner-up due to his enthusiasm to adopt new ways of working and new technologies. He was also recognised for his ability to manage both his peers and his superiors. Outstanding Employee Award WINNER: Matt Taylor – Astins With more than 18 years’ experience in the industry, Matt was recognised for his never-ending energy and professionalism for design and to the sector. The award was presented by Nathan Garnett, Event Director at Media 10 Limited and Iain Mcilwee CEO of FIS. RUNNER UP: Ed Kelly – ETAG Fixings Ed was commended for his exceptional reliability, quality of work, initiative and professionalism, as well as his commitment to Etag’s work values. Lifetime Achievement Award – sponsored by CCF Ray Deeks – G Cook & Sons Ray was chosen as the recipient of this award for demonstrating a lifetime’s dedication to his trade. In particular, he was applauded for the amount of his own time he has committed to sharing his wealth of knowledge and experience with the wider industry. The judges said: “We all owe Ray a vote of thanks for the legacy that he continues to leave.” The award was presented by Dean Pinner, Managing Director of CCF Ltd and Iain Mcilwee CEO of FIS.
Nestled in one of the North East’s most exclusive suburbs is a luxurious property that is stealing the attention of affluent house hunters. Poppy Cottage, the new property by Developments by Joseph Homes, is located on one of Wynyard Park’s most sought-after plots and is worth a cool £1.2million. Constructed of the highest quality textured brick and natural roof slate, the detached executive-style bungalow is situated on a 3,638 sq ft plot in Musgrave Garden Lane, in the heart of the luxury housing development in the Tees Valley. This beautiful four-bedroom home, which boasts a sleek interior design scheme with an array of modern touches, oozes luxury living. Chris Musgrave, CEO of Wynyard Park, explains how the new show home is set to revolutionise the way customers look at self-build projects. He said: “Joseph Homes caters to house buyers who want the luxury of a self-build property but don’t necessarily have the time or resources to independently manage such a project. “Joseph Homes offers a selection of six designs for customers to choose from, with the opportunity to make individual changes to match their particular requirements, while it project manages the custom build on behalf of the customer. “One of the difficulties for anyone embarking on a house build project is that it is difficult to get an initial feel for the property. It’s hard to get excited about an empty plot of land, which is why we introduced this stunning new show home. “Poppy Cottage is the perfect insight into a Joseph Homes property. It gives an overview of the style and quality of the build and helps get the customer inspired for their dream home. “What sets our homes apart is that we go the extra mile in every way possible. We compromise on nothing; from the architectural design to the handmade bespoke kitchens and bathrooms. Poppy Cottage radiates elegance and quality craftsmanship, something that is hard to get across through images alone.” Since the launch of Poppy Cottage Joseph Homes has secured the sale of two bespoke properties, each with the sale price of over of £1m. Wynyard Park is home to some of the most exclusive and sought-after plots in the North East, with local footballers and millionaires alike calling it home. It has sold more than 70 self-build plots in the last two years alone. Chris added: “Every person who has come through the doors of Poppy Cottage has been impressed. Our aim is to show house buyers that there is no need to fear the idea of taking a custom build route, as Joseph Homes provides its customers with both freedom and convenience.” To book an appointment to view Poppy Cottage or to find out more information about a custom build project with Joseph Homes, contact 01740 667 000 or email info@josephhomes.life