Multiplex has selected Explore Manufacturing to supply its Megaplank flooring system for the landmark Fifty Fenchurch Street development in the City of London—a £400 million project set to become one of the UK’s most sustainable and biodiverse office towers. The 36-storey building, being developed by AXA IM Alts, will feature
K-BRIQ, made from nearly 100% recycled construction waste, set to transform sustainable building as commercial production begins… Scottish cleantech building materials company Kenoteq has marked a watershed moment for sustainable construction with its revolutionary K-BRIQ, made from construction and demolition waste, achieving certification from the British Board of Agrément (BBA),
Through this strategic alliance, Hydnum Steel will supply Kingspan with green steel as Kingspan continues to take strides to decarbonise its operations, products and supply chain via its Planet Passionate environmental sustainability programme. Kingspan Group and Hydnum Steel are excited to announce their collaboration on a green steel initiative aimed
As extreme weather events are projected to become more frequent due to climate change*, the demand for resilient construction materials is also rising. In response, ROCKWOOL has subjected NyRock® Rainscreen 032 to a robust, independent testing programme designed to reflect how the product is commonly installed on buildings. The tests
Gateway 2 is a crucial regulatory checkpoint introduced under the Building Safety Act 2022, applying to higher-risk buildings, typically those over eighteen metres tall or with seven or more storeys and containing at least two residential units. Compliance is required before construction begins, meaning no work can legally start until
Wetherby Wall Systems, part of the ROCKWOOL Group, is delighted to announce the launch of SOQEL A2, a fully compliant, impact-resistant, and moisture-protected External Wall Insulation (EWI) system designed for below damp-proof course (DPC) applications. Launching on March 17th, SOQEL A2 sets a new benchmark for fire safety and durability
A seminar on the benefits of using Europe’s only C2C Certified® reflective insulation along with its sister membranes is one of the highlights of an open day being held at the HQ of a leading timber frame manufacturer next month. Liane Bayliss, South East and South London area sales manager
Sika’s Roofing Division is excited to announce its participation in the highly anticipated Futurebuild 2025, taking place from 4-6 March 2025 at London Excel. As a global leader in innovative and sustainable roofing solutions, Sika invites visitors to join them at Stand E76 and G20D to explore the latest in
Façade specialist Alsecco has been named as winner of the Judges Choice Architectural Design – High Rise award at this year’s INCA Awards, in addition to taking the title for Refurbishment High Rise. Judges at the awards, which recognise excellence in the external wall insulation sector, made a unanimous decision
The major Solar Serena Sunrise redevelopment project, taking place in the beautiful village of Hornchurch, required Keyfix’s market-leading and A1 fire-rated Non-combustible Cavity Tray System (NCCT). Solar Serena Sunrise is a redevelopment project that will see the creation of 175 high-quality new apartments in an over-55’s retirement community village.
Multiplex has selected Explore Manufacturing to supply its Megaplank flooring system for the landmark Fifty Fenchurch Street development in the City of London—a £400 million project set to become one of the UK’s most sustainable and biodiverse office towers. The 36-storey building, being developed by AXA IM Alts, will feature over 68,000 square metres of Megaplank precast concrete flooring, manufactured by Explore Manufacturing, a subsidiary of Laing O’Rourke. The appointment follows a year-long pre-construction services agreement (PCSA) between the parties. Megaplank units will be produced at Explore’s advanced factory in Worksop using a high-speed carousel production line, ensuring a consistent, high-quality soffit finish. The system’s composite design, used in conjunction with steel beams, enables the reduction of steel section sizes—supporting more efficient material use and lowering the overall structural weight. Fifty Fenchurch Street is designed with sustainability and wellbeing in mind, incorporating tenth-floor gardens and over 40 planted terraces, helping it stand out as a benchmark in green commercial architecture. James Langley, general manager at Explore Manufacturing, said: “We are excited to be part of the Fifty Fenchurch Street project and look forward to showcasing the exceptional qualities of our Megaplank product. This collaboration with Multiplex marks a significant milestone for us, and we are committed to delivering outstanding results that meet and exceed expectations.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
K-BRIQ, made from nearly 100% recycled construction waste, set to transform sustainable building as commercial production begins… Scottish cleantech building materials company Kenoteq has marked a watershed moment for sustainable construction with its revolutionary K-BRIQ, made from construction and demolition waste, achieving certification from the British Board of Agrément (BBA), the UK’s leading construction certification body. As one of the world’s most sustainable low-carbon bricks, the K-BRIQ can now be confidently specified into a wide range of construction projects ranging from facades and feature walls to brick plinths. Kenoteq is beginning commercial production of up to two million bricks annually. This will scale to four million as required, from its first production facility in East Lothian. The company then plans to set up regional production both in the UK and internationally to provide low carbon building products from local waste. The unfired K-BRIQ, made from nearly 100 percent recycled construction and demolition waste, has been certified with the same accreditation as standard clay bricks, yet produces 95% less embodied carbon due to its innovative production process. With no standard testing regime for a non-traditional building material of this type, the K-BRIQ underwent an unprecedented level of rigorous testing over several years. Notably, it received the maximum durability rating possible, which is particularly important for the UK market. As leaders in sustainability, public sector organisations and developers in the City of London are already showing strong interest in the K-BRIQ’s environmental credentials as it can help meet their ambitious climate targets. Educational estates, large scale office buildings and major urban regeneration projects are likely to be among early adopters. This milestone follows additional certification for use in the United States through the prestigious DrJ Technical Evaluation Report (TER), positioning the K-BRIQ as a Scottish innovation preparing to make a global impact. With dual international certification secured, and European certification underway, the company is already fielding enquiries from across the world. The K-BRIQ addresses significant environmental challenges in the construction industry. Today’s staple construction products drain finite resources while the sector is the largest contributor to landfill waste. The UK also relies on an environmentally damaging level of traditional high carbon brick imports. As Europe’s largest market for bricks, the UK uses around 2.5 billion bricks annually. With over 500 million imported and around 50 million of these travelling from outside the EU, the environmental impact is colossal. Additionally, more than a third of the waste in global landfills is estimated to be of demolition and construction origin. Construction, demolition and excavation waste accounts for approximately 60-65% of total waste generated in the UK, of which approximately 50-60 million tonnes is construction and demolition waste specifically. Tackling this, Kenoteq can create recycled bricks fit for use within 24 hours of the processed waste arriving at its ultra-low energy factory. Sam Chapman, co-founder and executive director of Kenoteq, said: “This certification marks the arrival of a truly transformative building material for the construction and interior design industries. Unlike approaches that simply treat the symptoms of construction’s environmental impact, the K-BRIQ addresses the root cause by directly tackling the waste crisis while delivering a product that performs exactly like traditional materials, including the clay brick. “Securing BBA certification allows our product to be specified with confidence on commercial projects across the UK. We’ve already seen significant interest from leading property developers, architectural firms and public sector bodies committed to reducing the carbon footprint of their construction projects. “The K-BRIQ is not just an environmentally superior alternative to traditional bricks, but a technically robust building material suitable for a wide range of construction applications. With our certification secured, we can now scale up production to meet market requirements while maintaining the exceptional quality and sustainability credentials that set us apart. “The construction industry is under increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact while maintaining high standards of quality and safety. The BBA certification of the K-BRIQ demonstrates that these goals are not mutually exclusive – we can build better while building greener.” The K-BRIQ has achieved 100 tonnes of carbon savings in demonstration projects delivered to date. With 95% less embodied carbon than a traditional brick, the K-BRIQ represents a major advancement in sustainable construction materials at a time when embodied carbon is increasingly recognised as crucial to the whole-life carbon impact of buildings. Embodied carbon can account for over 50% of a building’s total carbon footprint, yet has received less attention than operational carbon in regulations and industry practices. With a standard two-bedroom house in the UK typically requiring around 12,000 bricks, using a standard clay brick creates 5.46 tonnes of CO2e, a more comprehensive measurement than CO2 alone. Building with the K-BRIQ, in contrast, creates 0.2 tonnes of CO2e. Katy Roberts, Sales and Marketing Director at the British Board of Agrément, said: “The BBA is proud to play its part in helping clients like Kenoteq bring innovative and sustainable new products into the market. In a sector where safety, performance, and trust are non-negotiable, third-party certification plays a crucial role in enabling innovation. “Independent certification provides a rigorous, evidence-based pathway for new products to gain market acceptance. It reassures stakeholders, supports regulatory compliance, and ultimately helps turn groundbreaking ideas into real-world construction solutions.” With all K-BRIQs now achieving the highest level of durability rating under BBA certification, the Medero Dark Grey K-BRIQ variant has achieved an A-class fire rating, allowing its use in buildings classed as the highest risk. The K-BRIQ is available in 12 different colours, produced using recycled pigments, offering architects and developers aesthetic flexibility without compromising on environmental performance. The BBA certification enables the K-BRIQ to be used in a wide range of building applications, satisfying insurance, warranty, mortgage and third-party liability requirements, which have previously been barriers to the widespread adoption of innovative construction materials. Early adopter projects across the UK and Europe have already showcased the aesthetic and technical capabilities of the K-BRIQ including walling and installations at Scotland’s National Retrofit Centre at BE-ST (Built Environment Smarter
Through this strategic alliance, Hydnum Steel will supply Kingspan with green steel as Kingspan continues to take strides to decarbonise its operations, products and supply chain via its Planet Passionate environmental sustainability programme. Kingspan Group and Hydnum Steel are excited to announce their collaboration on a green steel initiative aimed at decarbonising the construction sector and promoting sustainability in building materials. Hydnum Steel, based in Puertollano, Spain, is a pioneer of green steel in the Iberian Peninsula and Southern Europe. This collaboration will see Hydnum Steel supply Kingspan with green steel, reinforcing Kingspan’s commitment to reducing the environmental impact of building materials as part of its Planet Passionate environmental sustainability programme. The strategic alliance promotes the adoption of green steel as a key alternative when constructing buildings and reinforces the role of the steel industry in the transition towards climate neutrality. The construction sector, one of the sectors with the largest carbon footprint globally[1], faces the challenge of adopting innovative solutions that reduce emissions without compromising performance, efficiency or quality. In this context, the use of green steel becomes a fundamental pillar for achieving decarbonisation goals and progressing towards more sustainable and energy-efficient buildings. According to the signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Hydnum Steel and Kingspan will also collaborate to guarantee the most efficient logistics and circular economy solutions with ferrous scrap, as part of its commitment to the environment and natural resource utilisation. Eva Maneiro, CEO of Hydnum Steel, expressed her excitement: “We are excited to collaborate with Kingspan, a company that, like us, wants to be a pioneer in industrial decarbonisation. For both of us, it’s not just about being part of the change, but leading it. We are proving that it is possible to reinvent the industry with a more human and planet-friendly approach.” Mark Broderick, Procurement Director at Kingspan, added: “Our collaboration with Hydnum Steel is an important step forward in our strategy of procuring green steel at scale as we continue to drive our overall emissions reductions via our Planet Passionate programme. We’re working at pace to reduce the carbon footprint of our supply chain and product portfolio, but also to help accelerate the pace of change in the steel industry which will be critical to enabling the longer-term decarbonisation of the built environment.” To discover more about Kingspan’s Planet Passionate programme, visit www.kingspan.com/planetpassionate [1] According to the World Green Building Council, the built environment and construction sector accounts for 38% of global carbon emissions and it has been estimated that globally we build the equivalent of a city the size of Paris every week. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
As extreme weather events are projected to become more frequent due to climate change*, the demand for resilient construction materials is also rising. In response, ROCKWOOL has subjected NyRock® Rainscreen 032 to a robust, independent testing programme designed to reflect how the product is commonly installed on buildings. The tests demonstrated that the insulation can withstand wind conditions equivalent to at least a Category 4 hurricane *. Carried out in accordance with BRE Digest 346 Part 7, the programme simulated 50 years of varying wind pressures. 125mm NyRock Rainscreen 032 was installed in a range of typical façade build-ups, including, critically, one that incorporated a breather membrane. “Specifiers, contractors and building owners need every confidence that the products they’re using can withstand the weather of the future and have been tested in applications that reflect how they’re commonly specified and installed,” says Lisa Stephens, Product Manager at ROCKWOOL UK. “A breather membrane is important to the testing process, as the wind can infiltrate behind it and exert pressure on the insulation. Despite this, not all rainscreen insulation wind load tests include a breather membrane. “By testing our rainscreen insulation in a build-up that more closely replicates a façade’s design, architects and specifiers can make informed decisions, knowing the findings are rooted in common build-up scenarios.” The ROCKWOOL testing programme examined the product in two common façade build-ups: a steel frame masonry façade comprising 125mm NyRock Rainscreen 032 installed in ACS channel without additional mechanical fixings and a steel frame cladded façade with 125mm NyRock Rainscreen 032 installed with 50mm EJOT fixings. Both tests concluded that NyRock Rainscreen 032 can withstand a minimum of Category 4 hurricane conditions. The 50mm fixing test was completed, recognising that space restrictions sometimes mean 70mm fixings cannot always be used. The testing confirmed that smaller 50mm fixings — instead of 70mm — are sufficient to endure Category 4 hurricane wind pressure. Similarly, in masonry façade build-ups, NyRock Rainscreen 032 demonstrated its strength without the need for additional mechanical fixings. In addition to providing independent verification for customers, the results highlight the potential for cost reductions and labour efficiencies. “In practical terms, this means specifiers and contractors can save on fixing costs with the knowledge that a more complete build-up has been independently assessed for wind-load,” Lisa concluded. NyRock Rainscreen 032 is part of the ROCKWOOL NyRock range of products that offer the lowest lambda stone wool insulation currently available in the UK and Ireland** with 0.032 W/mK thermal conductivity. NyRock Rainscreen 032 also has a Euroclass A1 non-combustible reaction to fire rating and independently tested acoustic benefits. For further details of the testing programme, visit rockwool.com/uk/wind-load-testing *According to ‘The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale’ **Correct at time of going to press versus publicly available information. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Gateway 2 is a crucial regulatory checkpoint introduced under the Building Safety Act 2022, applying to higher-risk buildings, typically those over eighteen metres tall or with seven or more storeys and containing at least two residential units. Compliance is required before construction begins, meaning no work can legally start until the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has reviewed and approved a detailed building control application. This application must demonstrate that the building’s design meets all relevant Building Regulations and properly considers fire safety and structural safety risks. The building control application submitted at the Gateway 2 stage is much more thorough than traditional applications. It requires developers to submit full design documentation, including plans, calculations, and specifications, along with a fire and emergency file and evidence that competent professionals are overseeing the project. Developers must also show how they will maintain the ‘Golden Thread’ which is a clear, up-to-date record of safety information applicable throughout the building’s life cycle. The application must also set out how any design changes during construction will be managed and reported to the regulator. The introduction of Gateway 2 is part of a wider push to improve building safety following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, ensuring safety is prioritised from the very start of construction. By requiring a ‘stop/go’ decision point before work can begin, Gateway 2 aims to prevent unsafe designs from progressing into construction, increasing accountability and ensuring higher standards across the industry. This stricter process is designed to reduce safety risks during both construction and the eventual occupation of the building. Gateway 2 is part of a staged process, the three gateways in the new system are: Gateway 1 – Pre-Planning: Considering safety risks at the planning application stage. Gateway 2 – Pre-Construction: Ensuring the design is safe before building starts. (this is where Gateway 2 compliance applies). Gateway 3 – Post-Construction: A final check before the building is occupied. Aluprof UK has demonstrated a strong commitment to aligning with the Building Safety Act’s requirements, particularly concerning Gateway 2 approvals. Its broad range of high performance façade solutions, all 3rd party tested to the relevant standards makes Aluprof the ideal partner. In addition their major projects team collaborates closely with specialist façade contractors to ensure that all necessary supporting documentation and compliance measures are meticulously prepared for submission to the Building Safety Regulator (BSR). This proactive approach is essential, especially in light of recent challenges faced by the BSR, such as delays in processing Gateway 2 applications due to an outsourced delivery model and a shortage of in-house technical expertise. Aluprof’s vertical integration benefits specifiers by ensuring consistent product quality, streamlined supply chains, and enhanced technical support. With in-house system design, manufacturing, and testing, Aluprof delivers high-performance aluminium systems that meet stringent UK and EU building regulations, including Gateway 2 requirements under the Building Safety Act. This integrated approach allows for greater customisation, faster lead times, and improved cost efficiency, giving specifiers confidence in project timelines and compliance. Additionally, direct collaboration with Aluprof’s experts ensures tailored solutions that align with architectural intent while enhancing sustainability and energy efficiency. UK-based facade specialists, Century Facades, in conjunction with the team at Aluprof UK, have recently confirmed that the Gateway 2 application for the Devonshire Place project in London is complete. The validation checks have recently been conducted and the application has been determined to be valid, however, the final decision will be made within the statutory timelines unless an extension of time is agreed. Marcin Bara, Design Director at Century Facades takes up the story: “In the context of UK construction industry, Gateway 2 focuses on ensuring compliance with the functional requirements of the Building Regulations and forms a “hold point” between the design and construction phases. It is crucial for a facade specialist contractor to work closely with the facade system supplier and vice versa to align on design intricacies, material specifications, and safety requirements. This collaboration must be based on trust and true partnership as only this ensures that the facade would not only meet aesthetic criteria but also adheres to performance and safety standards mandated by current Building Regulations via Gateway processes. “Effective communication and coordination between the contractor and supplier help in identifying potential issues early, optimising resource use, and ensuring the facade system contributes to the building’s overall compliance, sustainability, and safety objectives. This is where key partners such as Aluprof can work as an extension arm to our competent and fully qualified in-house Design and Engineering Teams to ensure the application produced for Gateway 2 is of the highest possible standards. “It is crucial for the system supplier to offer tailored approach to this new approval regime, so that their offer and service provided is project specific and matches our requirements as a specialist facade contractor fully. This is where our close partners such as Aluprof can play a key role in producing quality submissions, meeting expectations of our Clients entirely.” Between October 1, 2023, and September 16, 2024, the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) reported that they had received 1,018 Gateway 2 applications. Of these, only 146 were approved, equating to an approval rate of approximately 14%. The BSR rejected 25 applications, while the status of the remaining 847 applications was not specified. These delays have been attributed to several factors, including an unexpected surge in applications, a high number of incomplete or unclear submissions, and resource constraints within the BSR. Developers have expressed concerns that these bottlenecks are hindering essential housing projects, including student accommodations and build-to-rent homes. The BSR has acknowledged these challenges and is working to stabilise and improve the building control approval process for higher-risk buildings. They emphasise the importance of submitting clear and comprehensive applications to facilitate quicker decision-making and reduce delays. It seems there is still some confusion over the process with contractors and developers. In short, Gateway 2 compliance is about proving to the Building Safety Regulator that the design of a higher-risk building meets all safety requirements before work starts on
Wetherby Wall Systems, part of the ROCKWOOL Group, is delighted to announce the launch of SOQEL A2, a fully compliant, impact-resistant, and moisture-protected External Wall Insulation (EWI) system designed for below damp-proof course (DPC) applications. Launching on March 17th, SOQEL A2 sets a new benchmark for fire safety and durability in external wall insulation. It’s the first fully fire-tested system for below DPC applications, meeting the latest A2-s1,d0 fire classification required for materials in buildings over 11 meters. This ensures compliance with the UK Building Regulations and provides a solid solution for the construction industry. With UK building regulations now requiring that materials used in buildings over 11 meters must meet a minimum A2-s1,d0 fire rating, SOQEL A2 offers architects, contractors and specifiers a reliable solution in line with these regulations. Designed for use in below DPC areas, as well as balconies, walkways and plant rooms, the system improves fire resistance, impact protection and long-term moisture durability. Unlike traditional solutions, such as bitumen paint, SOQEL A2 delivers a more effective and resilient alternative. This game-changing system integrates Coverrock x-2 pre-coated insulation, which ensures a strong and durable bond for coatings while protecting the A1-rated Stone Wool core during installation. Paired with Heck K+A SL coating and Heck CER Mesh, it also provides superior impact and moisture resistance, withstanding harsh weather and high foot traffic in exposed areas like balconies and plant rooms. SOQEL A2 incorporates Heck 4S Silicone Render, ensuring a seamless finish that matches the overall façade system. Unlike traditional below DPC treatments, which may distrupt the building’s aesthetics, it offers a modern, integrated look while maintaining full regulatory compliance. Joe Ragdale, Technical Director at Wetherby Wall Systems: “We have worked alongside our ROCKWOOL Group sister company, HECK in Germany to launch this innovative system into the UK market. We are delighted to introduce SOQEL A2, the first system of its kind for below DPC and base areas.” “This solution provides architects and contractors working on remediation projects with a compliant, durable, and efficient way to enhance building safety while ensuring a seamless finish alongside insulated façade systems.” For more information about SOQEL A2 or to discuss your project requirements, visit www.wall-systems.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A seminar on the benefits of using Europe’s only C2C Certified® reflective insulation along with its sister membranes is one of the highlights of an open day being held at the HQ of a leading timber frame manufacturer next month. Liane Bayliss, South East and South London area sales manager for pan-European insulation specialist Actis, is among guest speakers at the event at the Scandia-Hus show centre in East Grinstead on Saturday April 5. She will be talking about how and why Scandia-Hus uses the Actis Hybrid range on all its designs, and providing information on installation and its thermal benefits. She will talk about how it helps developers comply with tighter Part L and Part O regulations and meet the Future Homes Standard. Actis’ zero-waste policy and the 100% recyclability of all its products has enabled its honeycomb structure Hybris insulation to become the only reflective insulation in Europe to earn international Cradle to Cradle Certified® Bronze Certification. Few raw materials and fewer energy resources used during production means carbon emissions produced manufacturing all five Actis products are very low compared with those produced by other insulation products, at less than 2kg per sq m of CO2. Scandia-Hus has used the Actis Hybrid range in all four of its show homes, with the day marking the official fully-furnished opening of its latest design The Lodge, with the other three homes also being open for viewing. Visitors will be able to discuss their projects and ask advice from the Scandia-Hus team and specialist suppliers whose products and expertise are used in the company’s various designs. Liane’s seminar is at 10.30am, with others on subjects such as plot finding, design, underfloor heating, MVHR, planning and build finance between then and 1.30pm. Find out more information about the open day and book your place at the event and Liane’s seminar here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Sika’s Roofing Division is excited to announce its participation in the highly anticipated Futurebuild 2025, taking place from 4-6 March 2025 at London Excel. As a global leader in innovative and sustainable roofing solutions, Sika invites visitors to join them at Stand E76 and G20D to explore the latest in roofing technology, designed to meet the demands of a more sustainable future in construction. At Futurebuild, one of the UK’s most influential events for the built environment, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and professionals from across the globe to explore and address the challenges facing the construction industry. Sika will highlight its commitment to sustainability, showcasing a range of products that meet the growing demand for environmentally responsible materials in the construction sector. Visitors to the GRO Pavilion Stand E76, will have the opportunity to meet the Sika team, discuss the latest trends in sustainable roofing, and find the ideal products for their next project. In addition to their presence at Stand E76, Sika will also be featured at the 540 World Stand G20D, where they will showcase their Cradle to Cradle® certified products such as the Sarnafil AT technology. Attendees can look forward to discovering solutions designed to contribute to a circular economy, promoting sustainability and reducing environmental impact across the lifecycle of roofing materials. “We are thrilled to be part of Futurebuild 2025, a key event for anyone interested in shaping the future of construction,” said Mark Harris, Head of Sustainability – Roofing “This is an exciting opportunity for us to engage with the industry, share our expertise, and help visitors find the most sustainable roofing solutions for their upcoming projects.” Futurebuild provides a unique platform for architects, contractors, and building professionals to collaborate and gain insights into new technologies and products that are set to transform the industry. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and cutting-edge design, the event will be a key gathering for anyone passionate about driving positive change in the built environment. Don’t miss out on the chance to connect with the Sika team and explore how their sustainable roofing solutions can support your next project. Visit Sika at the GRO Pavilion on Stand E76, and stop by the 540 World Stand G20D to learn more about their Cradle to Cradle® certified products. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Façade specialist Alsecco has been named as winner of the Judges Choice Architectural Design – High Rise award at this year’s INCA Awards, in addition to taking the title for Refurbishment High Rise. Judges at the awards, which recognise excellence in the external wall insulation sector, made a unanimous decision in naming the Victoria House development, in Manchester, as Judges Choice Architectural Design – High Rise, describing the building as ‘an architectural masterpiece with great angles and complex detailing making it a worthy winner’. Alsecco supplied its Ecomin 400 cladding system with Meldorfer lightweight brick slips to complete the exterior of the building, providing external wall insulation and a brick-effect finish. The use of brick slips supported efficient construction of the 25-storey residential development by main contractor Domis, recreating a traditional gault brick appearance. Alsecco was also named as winner in the ‘Refurbishment High Rise’ category for its work on the colourful exterior on The Boardwalk development, in Eastbourne Harbour. The upgrade saw Alsecco’s Ecomin 300 external insulated render system used to ensure the exterior of the building was suited to the challenges of a marine environment. The project was praised for the ‘all round quality coupled with such a strikingly vibrant yellow and white finish that enhanced the building’s visual appeal’. Dean Broughton, Managing Director of Alsecco, said: “It is fantastic to see these two projects recognised at the INCA awards, which celebrate the very best projects in the external wall insulation industry. “Being involved in a project with the ambition and scale of Victoria House was a real privilege. The development, right in the heart of Manchester, showcases exactly what can be achieved with high quality brick slips, both in terms of efficiency, but also aesthetics. “To see this ambitious project awarded the judges choice in its category is testament to the commitment across the board that went into making this vision a reality. “Likewise, the Boardwalk upgrade shows what can be achieved through a high-quality external wall insulation system. While performance underpins external wall insulation applications, it is great to be involved in design-led projects that deliver a striking finish such as this. Thanks to INCA for helping to showcase excellence in the industry.” Run by the Insulated Render and Cladding Association (INCA), the awards recognise the highest standards in external wall insulation (EWI), with submissions across a variety of categories to highlight excellence in a range of building projects. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The major Solar Serena Sunrise redevelopment project, taking place in the beautiful village of Hornchurch, required Keyfix’s market-leading and A1 fire-rated Non-combustible Cavity Tray System (NCCT). Solar Serena Sunrise is a redevelopment project that will see the creation of 175 high-quality new apartments in an over-55’s retirement community village. Sitting on the edge of the Green Flag-winning Harrow Lodge Park, the picturesque Park Rise development will give occupants the opportunity to take in stunning views of local lakes, reservoirs, wildlife, and open green spaces. With a tight deadline, and main contractor Wates Residential keen to futureproof the building for generations ahead, Keyfix’s A1 fire rated Non-combustible Cavity Tray System (NCCT) was specified, due to its robust performance and efficient installation. Keyfix supplied 3,600m of NCCT, including 1,900 pre-formed Corner Units and 12,000 Non-combustible Weep Vents. Additionally, Keyfix also supplied more than 600 of its Non-combustible Cavity Tray Lintels (NCCTL) to the project. Having pre-formed Corner Units helped speed up the installation process, with installers able to quickly and simply fix them into place and then secure them with Split Pins and Jointing Pieces. As the Corner Units are delivered to site already pre-formed, the quality of this integral component in the building is not compromised and provides reassurance that the area is safe-proofed. Keyfix’s NCCT is manufactured from Grade 304 austenitic stainless steel, which is 100% recyclable making it the ideal choice for the sustainability-conscious client and main contractor. Furthermore, the NCCT features a unique design that enables the stainless-steel tray to be self-supporting across the cavity and requires no support from the internal structure, boosting its thermal efficiency. It will also avoid the issues typically associated with differential movement. Additionally, Keyfix’s technical team regularly undertook site visits to check on the project progress, attended design team meetings, carried out CPD webinars and toolbox talks and completed a comprehensive component schedule/location layout plan based on drawings provided by the architects. The quick and efficient installation and early collaboration between all parties helped keep the project moving along smoothly, enabling all deadlines and budgets to be met. Mark Pasley, Procurement Manager at Wates Residential, revealed Keyfix’s NCCT had been chosen thanks to its high-performance stainless-steel material and A1 fire rating. He said: “We have used Keyfix’s NCCT before so we are well aware of its capabilities and have been so impressed with its speed of installation, enhanced energy efficiency, and reduced heat loss. “Delivery was efficient and all products arrived on site in line with the delivery schedule. Thanks to the quick installation of the NCCTs, the project went incredibly smoothly. We would have no hesitation in working with Keyfix again in the future.” For more information about the Keyfix range of non-combustible solutions, download the company’s expansive product brochure here, visit https://keyfix.com/ or for technical support call 028 8676 7508 or email info@keyfix.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
