Asphalt shingles were invented in 1901. By the 1940’s they were being produced on a mass scale and were well on their way to being the most widely used roofing material in the United States. Fast forward to modern times, and asphalt shingles are still one of the more popular
A recent industry survey conducted by Södra Wood has shown a definite increase in the specification of timber as a construction material in the UK, with 63% of respondents saying they believe timber is growing in popularity. The survey (hosted through Building and Building Design magazines) generated insight from almost
The RIBA-approved CPD – ‘Specifying an alternative to traditional rainwater systems’ – is a 20 minute long video that provides viewers with a deep understanding of rainwater and soil systems, the requirements for these products and to offer an alternative. It looks at industry standards and regulations, specification requirements, design and
Classified as a superhard material, titanium is a go-to metal for homeowners who need a sustainable solution to their building needs. Research suggests that the superhard materials industry will be worth an estimated $6.5 billion by the year 2025 and both titanium nitrate and titanium alloys fall within this category. With researchers
Have you looked at an empty lot or unused flat piece of land in your community and thought that it could absolutely be used in a much better way? With the increasing health epidemic that is sweeping first world countries caused by our increasingly sedentary lifestyles, not to mention the
A pilot project has been introduced to help fast-track the training of new bricklayers in the construction industry. This Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) scheme is part of a drive to address a national shortage of bricklayers. Brickwork Academy is working with students at Wirral Metropolitan College and Hugh Baird
Architectural cladding specialist Vivalda Group has been identified as one of London Stock Exchange Group’s ‘1000 Companies to Inspire Britain’ 2019. Despite the current economic uncertainly and the impact of the Grenfell Tower tragedy on the industry, Vivalda has continued to push for greater transparency and leadership within the cladding
Designing a waterproofing scheme is no simple matter. With rainfall averages varying from a few hundred millimetres to several metres depending on where you are in the UK, and most of it undulating, it’s certainly no level playing field. Even when it is, you could still find your building sitting
Sand is an essential component in most modern buildings. It’s used to create foundations, construct columns, make plasters, and more. What many consumers don’t realize is that there are actually many types of sand, each of which is used for particular applications. Before so much as beginning to lay a
Aluminium glazing systems by Kawneer feature at Welsh University’s new creative and digital centre. Architectural glazing systems by leading UK manufacturer Kawneer played a key role in a new state-of-the-art building which is at the heart of Wales’ creative and digital future. Kawneer’s AA®110 curtain walling, AA®720 doors and window
Asphalt shingles were invented in 1901. By the 1940’s they were being produced on a mass scale and were well on their way to being the most widely used roofing material in the United States. Fast forward to modern times, and asphalt shingles are still one of the more popular types of roofing materials. This is due to their affordability, availability and overall aesthetic appeal. Since the early 20th century, there have been many technological and design improvements in asphalt shingles. They can come in a variety of colours, types, and designs. Before you make the decision to move forward with asphalt shingles, it is important that you connect with a reputable Indianapolis roofing contractor. This will help you to ensure that you are choosing the right type of shingle and that they are installed correctly. Different Types of Asphalt Shingles There are many types of asphalt shingles. However, the three main types are three-tab shingles, dimensional shingles, and luxury shingles. Each has its own set of pros and cons. Learn more about the most popular types of Asphalt shingles below. Three-tab shingles: These shingles are typically the most affordable. They are single layered and notched into three tabs. If properly taken care of, they can last for more than 20 years. However, they are not the most durable type of asphalt shingle and are slowly losing their popularity to other types. Dimensional shingles: Sometimes referred to as architectural shingles, they are much stronger than their three-tab counterparts. By many accounts, they are much more stylish as well. These shingles are known to last upwards of 30 years. Luxury shingles: Luxury asphalt shingles are typically built like dimensional shingles, but are made to look more like slate or wood shake roofs. Homeowners that do not wish to pay for slate or wood shake roofs, may opt for luxury shingles. It is important to note that they will cost considerably more than dimensional and three-tab shingles. Pros of Asphalt Shingles Asphalt shingles have transformed greatly since they were invented. With these technological advances, many positive characteristics can be attributed to them. Some of the advantages include: Ease of installation and less difficult to find a qualified contractor Cost-effective and easy on the budget An average lifespan of 20 or more years Environmentally friendly and can be recycled Can come in many colors and designs Cons of Asphalt Shingles While it is important to consider all of the advantages of asphalt shingles, there are also some disadvantages. These cons should not serve a deterrent. However, it is important to weigh all the information available before making your final decision. Listed below are some of the cons associated with asphalt shingles. Do not last as long as other materials like metal, slate, rubber, etc. Typically requires more maintenance than other materials Not known to be the most durable roofing material Have a higher propensity to develop algae or moss growth Overall, asphalt shingles have made a good name for themselves among contractors and homeowners all over the world. They are affordable, stylish and offer your home a proven layer of protection. It is recommended that you connect with an experienced roofing contractor before you choose asphalt shingles. They better they are installed, the more likely you are to be happy with them in the long run.
A recent industry survey conducted by Södra Wood has shown a definite increase in the specification of timber as a construction material in the UK, with 63% of respondents saying they believe timber is growing in popularity. The survey (hosted through Building and Building Design magazines) generated insight from almost 350 architects, consultants, contractors and merchants. The objective was to ascertain whether the UK is beginning to recognise the merits of timber and the results were clear to see: 69% of those questioned said they already worked with timber 68.75% of respondents felt that timber can help meet government housebuilding and sustainability targets When asked to rank the benefits of timber in order of importance, sustainability took the lead, followed by the fact that it is a quick and efficient material to work with. Great aesthetics took third place, then versatility, cost-effectiveness and offsite capabilities. Nigel Buckley-Ryan, Sales Director, Merchants, at Södra Wood, commented: “As a timber business, we have been working hard to position the benefits of what wood can do for our construction industry – it’s really rewarding to see so many people working with timber. We believe it can help meet many sustainability and housing targets in the UK, so I’m delighted to see recognition of that. “Sustainability is something that we are very passionate about here at Södra, which is why for every tree we fell, we plant another three and operate according to a tree’s natural lifecycle. It is welcoming to see that the UK construction industry is becoming more conscious of timber’s excellent sustainability credentials.” Jeremy English, Sales Director, Manufacturing, at Södra Wood commented: “While timber’s popularity is clearly growing, there remains lots of opportunity for further development, especially in terms of timber’s offsite capabilities, and cost and time efficiencies. The interesting thing about this survey is that it also shows that work still remains to be done to raise awareness around timber’s benefits. We’ll certainly continue to build its case and, as always, endeavour to drive the industry forward.” For further information about Södra Wood please visit www.sodra.uk
The RIBA-approved CPD – ‘Specifying an alternative to traditional rainwater systems’ – is a 20 minute long video that provides viewers with a deep understanding of rainwater and soil systems, the requirements for these products and to offer an alternative. It looks at industry standards and regulations, specification requirements, design and installation, as well as performance and maintenance, and health and safety considerations. Suitable for anyone involved in the specification and installation of rainwater systems including architects, developers and contractors, the online CPD includes case study examples featuring cast iron style rainwater systems across a wide range of applications. The presentation illustrates how modern plastic systems can meet specifier’s requirements for easy-to-install and economical alternatives to traditional cast iron. These systems offer heritage aesthetics without the cast-iron price tag. Brett Martin’s Cascade Cast Iron Style Rainwater and Soil range provides an authentic cast iron style in plastic and is a cost effective, easy to install and long term alternative to traditional guttering systems. Approved by many Planning Authorities for use on even the most demanding heritage project, Cascade is so close in detail to genuine cast iron that it is difficult to tell the difference, making it an increasingly popular choice at sympathetic refurbishments, restorations and traditional style new builds. “As a leading manufacturer of plastic rainwater systems, we are well placed to help educate specifiers and installers about the benefits of rainwater and soil systems,” said Paul Wadsworth, Specification Manager Brett Martin Plumbing & Drainage. “Our new CPD presentation will help construction professionals gain an even better understanding of specifying an alternative to traditional rainwater systems.” To view the online CPD module, please click on the following link: –http://www.brettmartin.com/en-gb/plumbing-and-drainage/about-us/online-cpd.aspx
Classified as a superhard material, titanium is a go-to metal for homeowners who need a sustainable solution to their building needs. Research suggests that the superhard materials industry will be worth an estimated $6.5 billion by the year 2025 and both titanium nitrate and titanium alloys fall within this category. With researchers constantly testing and developing new uses for titanium, such as titanium dioxide used to coat buildings in order to reduce smog, these figures are likely to become a reality. Make Good Bones Better Wood was a go-to option for many years to set up the framing for homes, as it was fast to construct, durable, lightweight, and cost-effective. However, neither the effect on the environment or woods susceptibility to pests and damage can be ignored. Titanium makes a strong case as the material of choice as it not only provides a strong an durable frame that is better resistant to fires and earthquakes, but it also proves to be an ally for homeowners against pests. Titanium Plate Ticks A Few Sustainable Boxes One of the advantages of titanium’s anti-corrosion quality is that the need to replace it will most likely not happen, and if it does, it will take more than a few decades. What this means for the environment, is that the constant need for repairs and replacements won’t exist, therefore, freeing up resources. Titanium sheet used in roofing also happens to be a great temperature regulator with a thermal conductivity ratio of only 17.0 W/mK. This means less strain on the HVAC, which in turn, means less strain on the environment. Achieve An Everlasting Finish One of the biggest cost factors for a homeowner is the high cost of repainting their roof. While this might only happen every 5 to 10 years, the cost is estimated at $120 to $272 per roofing square, which means the bigger the roof, the higher the cost. Those who decide to use titanium dioxide as a coating won’t have to worry about the color fading. Titanium dioxide is resistant to organic and inorganic materials and also bacteria, which makes it ideal for use inside the home as well. Titanium is fast becoming the go-to material for the construction industry, as its various applications make it one of the most versatile metals. It’s strong resistance to the elements, low heat conductivity, and anti-warp quality make it the metal of choice for coastal regions and fire and earthquake-prone areas.
Have you looked at an empty lot or unused flat piece of land in your community and thought that it could absolutely be used in a much better way? With the increasing health epidemic that is sweeping first world countries caused by our increasingly sedentary lifestyles, not to mention the decreasing sense of community being caused by our time poor society, wouldn’t it be nice to use those spaces to counter all of this? This is where basketball come in to play. Utilizing otherwise useless areas in the community to create a social space where kids and adults can come and enjoy a game, watching or playing, with rules that fit NBA regulations, or just get made up on the spot to create a unique community form of the game. http://www.jerseybasketballassociation.com/rules/ A lot of the space available may be council owned, and able to be repurposed for community development, otherwise if privately owned you may be able to negotiate a lease with the owner that allows you to develop and enjoy the space for a set period of years, often at little or no cost. The benefit to the owner is that they enjoy community goodwill, and the space is being used until such time as they can develop it themselves (If you go this route allow for a period that will be the majority of the life of the court to get maximum use). Sizing the Court If you’re looking at a regulation court you will need to be able to clear at least 94 feet by 50 feet, plus a little space around the edge, while high school basketball courts are generally a little smaller at around 84 feet by 50 feet. Of course, there is no reason for you to stay strictly within regulations, but it is usually a good idea. However, the main goal is to create a great surface to play ball on. Building the Court Outdoor basketball courts are generally made from asphalt paving or concrete. One of the reasons that you will see basketball courts with cracks and weeds is often that the court hasn’t been laid properly from the start. When you are talking to your New Jersey asphalt pavement contractor about their process, they shouldn’t be talking about just laying down blacktop. The first step is not to just ensure that the surface is flat, but also to make sure that it is very well compacted. Although there are many corners that can be cut, a good asphalt surface will have material that is placed under the top layer, and usually several different layers of differing materials, depending on what drainage and earth is going to be under the court. Each layer must then be well compacted. If you go with a company that will cut corners for you, you will have court that simply won’t last the distance. Even more so if you are building near a busy road or in an industrial area. Painting the Court Using non-slip paint is ideal for an outdoor court, and although you can get a range of different materials for the top in a selection of colors, standard blacktop with white paint is likely to be your cheapest option. However, you may be able to use the space for a logo of the company installing in order to get a discount. The Surrounds Trees provide great shade, but they also may drop leaves which mean that someone will need to clean up before a game can happen. You may think that this is fine, however in a community court simple things like this often become a reason for no one to use the space. Try and look at plantings that will be low mess. Although, fruit vines or trees may be a great option to encourage more families to enjoy the space, with apples, peaches and nectarines growing well in New Jersey (see here). Although these do lose their leaves in winter, so it becomes a balance of which is the more desirable quality.
A pilot project has been introduced to help fast-track the training of new bricklayers in the construction industry. This Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) scheme is part of a drive to address a national shortage of bricklayers. Brickwork Academy is working with students at Wirral Metropolitan College and Hugh Baird College in the Liverpool city region, and Warwickshire College in the West Midlands, to give them the work experience they need to take up jobs in construction. The students have been chosen in partnership with participating local employers and will complete an additional seven weeks of practical skills training at their college, along with work experience days on local construction sites. After this they will spend the next 24 weeks working onsite with their employer, to achieve their NVQ Level 2 brickwork qualification. In addition to developing their practical trowel skills, the extra college training supports students to be better prepared for the construction sector, covering topics such as employability skills and self-employment. CITB will evaluate the pilot project and if successful, it could be rolled out to more colleges across the country, and to other construction trades. This comes after CITB research showed 70% of construction employers regard work experience as of significant value when recruiting, twice as many as those who value academic qualifications. They also found 29% of college graduates poorly prepared for work, due in part to a lack of practical, on-site experience. “We know that construction employers are struggling to recruit skilled bricklayers, while too many students on construction-related courses lack the onsite experience and employability skills that will get them their first job in construction. We’re really encouraged by the enthusiasm shown by the colleges and employers involved in the Brickwork Academy. We hope that its results will make the case for expanding the Academy approach with more employers and into other trades, to join together with other CITB initiatives to help more learners become site-ready for employment,” commented Steve Radley, CITB Strategy and Policy Director.
Architectural cladding specialist Vivalda Group has been identified as one of London Stock Exchange Group’s ‘1000 Companies to Inspire Britain’ 2019. Despite the current economic uncertainly and the impact of the Grenfell Tower tragedy on the industry, Vivalda has continued to push for greater transparency and leadership within the cladding sector by maintaining its policy of supplying only non-combustible facades to high rise buildings. The £34m turnover company was founded in 1999 and has a strong track record of investment in both people and equipment. Working closely with building contractors and architects across the UK and Ireland, Vivalda has campaigned for a more robust, evidence-based test regime for cladding systems. A celebration of the UK’s fastest-growing and most dynamic small and medium sized businesses (SMEs), the Stock Exchange award further confirms Vivalda’s enviable reputation as the UK’s largest independent supplier of high-performance cladding to buildings across the UK, Scotland and Ireland. With offices in nine locations, the business has pioneered the use of off-site fabrication within the construction supply chain – providing modular housing manufacturers with complete cladding solutions. Peter Johnson, chairman of Vivalda, said: “Our policy of supplying only certified, non-combustible claddings to high rise buildings has given our customers peace of mind by simplifying what was previously a complicated specification process. This has given us credibility, positioning us in the market to provide non-combustible cladding to the 400 high rise buildings that still require remediation work.” “Industry experts estimate that the total repair bill will be as high as £2bn as landlords strip off inferior cladding and replace with fully tested materials, providing long-overdue peace of mind to their anxious residents,” concluded Johnson. The business currently boasts an annual turnover of £34m and continues to outgrow construction industry norms, based on its uncompromising focus on product safety combined with added value services to both architects & contractors. Group chairman, Peter Johnson, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have had our efforts noticed by the LSE for a third year running. This recognition is a real feather in our cap and is a reflection of the hard work, dedication and passion demonstrated by Vivalda’s people up and down the country. We pride ourselves on going that extra mile for customers, supplying cut-to-size, fully prepared cladding that is both safe and aesthetically pleasing. “All of our fabrication facilities are equipped with the latest CNC cutting machines, dust extraction systems and our new delivery fleet conforms to the latest emissions standards – we believe that sustained profits only follow planned and long-term investment in people, skills and equipment.” To be selected for the list, businesses had to demonstrate not only positive revenue growth over the last three years but also outperform their sector peers. The result is a unique and varied list of the UK’s most dynamic companies. More details on the Companies to Inspire reports and methodology can be found online at www.1000companies.com. David Schwimmer, CEO, London Stock Exchange Group, said: “Congratulations to all the companies selected for inclusion in the sixth edition of London Stock Exchange Group’s 1000 Companies to Inspire Britain report, which identifies the UK’s most dynamic SMEs. SMEs drive growth, innovation and job creation and are the lifeblood of the British economy. We believe that supporting the growth of these businesses is critical to the UK economy and the creation of a society that works for everyone.” A full searchable database of all of the companies along with a downloadable pdf of the publication can be found online at www.1000companies.com
Designing a waterproofing scheme is no simple matter. With rainfall averages varying from a few hundred millimetres to several metres depending on where you are in the UK, and most of it undulating, it’s certainly no level playing field. Even when it is, you could still find your building sitting below the water line. Here, Niklas Ullfors, National Technical Manager for Visqueen, lays down some ground rules for specifying successful waterproofing solutions. With the UK’s weather becoming more and more unpredictable, and taking in to account the local geology, it is imperative to have a varied range of robust waterproofing applications to meet any requirement. While average annual rainfall across the country is 1.35 metres, some parts of Scotland and the East of England suffer a drenching of 3.0 metres and over. In most cases this filtrates through the soil types until it reaches the natural water table and is far enough below the surface not to be troublesome. However, in places such as the fenlands in East Anglia the water table is at or just below ground level and as a result, without an appropriate waterproofing scheme, a building could be sitting in water 100% of the time. Terrain can also play a big part when selecting the appropriate waterproofing system. Few parts of the UK are flat and there isn’t a real option to have land remodelled, because it is expensive and a significant engineering exercise. An alternative is to follow the natural gradient, with the front of the building at ground level and the rear partly below it, or vice versa. Some buildings are deliberately ‘buried’ to blend into the landscape and be energy efficient, while others feature a single or multi-storey basement. In all these cases, a robust waterproofing system will be needed. Obviously, it’s essential the waterproofing design is done at the building design stage and dovetails into the overall design. The British Standard code of practice for the theoretical design of waterproofing systems for a building or civil engineering structure is BS8102:2009. Introduced in 1990 it was updated in 2009. Whilst it is recognised as a guidance only document, a number of recent legal cases have created a default system whereby it must be considered when designing any waterproofing scheme. Know your ABC’s Waterproofing systems are split into Types A, B and C, and range from pre-applied and post-applied solutions, through to integral and drained systems. Depending on the amount of water encountered one or more types could be required. The most common are single and dual type applications. A waterproofing design with a combination of types lowers the risk for water ingress. Type A A ‘Type A’ system is bonded to the external face of the building or structure. It is completely bonded and known as a ‘Type A fully-bonded’ system. When a fully-bonded system needs to go below a building then the product will be placed on the ground first and the concrete poured on top of it. This is known as a ‘pre-applied product’, whereas if for example, a liquid product is applied to the external face of a structure this is a ‘post-applied product’. Both are Type A systems as both are fully-bonded to the structure. In the unlikely event the Type A system is damaged then water can enter through the damaged area. But tests have proved the water will stay localised to the damaged area. Conversely, if the system is not bonded to the structure then the water will track between the Type A product and the structure, and as a result water ingress will occur on a massive scale! Type B A Type B integral system is generally used when walls that are made from cast-on-site concrete and need to be made waterproof. There are two ways to achieve this. Firstly, you can add a special additive, which is done at the concrete mixing plant. This is very common as it is the most efficient way to make concrete waterproof and is also the most cost effective. Secondly, steel reinforcement can be added to the structure. This will keep the concrete taught and prevent any tiny crack appearing. If cracks do appear, then water will travel along them and enter the building. Type C A Type C system is completely different and often referred to as a ‘drained cavity system’ as it allows water to enter into the building through the structure itself. The water is then collected and managed away via a specialist drainage system. This system is very common if, for example, a building is being refurbished and water ingress has occurred or the building is undergoing a change of use. Design considerations Having considered external factors, a waterproofing designer also needs to consider the use of the proposed structure, what materials are going to be used and that the solution will remain intact for the in-service life of the building. The environment and building use creates risk factors, which are categorised under BS8102:2009 into three grades. Grade 1 has the lowest risk, a car park being a good example. Grade 2 would include a garage, plant room or workshop, whereas a domestic dwelling is a Grade 3 environment, needing to be the driest. Any water ingress or damp patches on the walls in your home are totally unacceptable. Once all the background information and the risks are known, then we can start to consider the principles of the waterproofing design. To provide a working example I’m suggesting a domestic house with a basement in Cumbria in the North West of England. The building is at risk from high levels of rainfall and, as it is a grade 3 property, it needs to be dry at all times. At this initial stage we will be considering a dual waterproofing system. In this situation, a Type A + Type B system would be highly recommended and is a fairly common combination for a new build. The Type B system will be an additive added to
Sand is an essential component in most modern buildings. It’s used to create foundations, construct columns, make plasters, and more. What many consumers don’t realize is that there are actually many types of sand, each of which is used for particular applications. Before so much as beginning to lay a foundation, property owners and contractors new to their professions should take the time to familiarize themselves with the different sizes and shapes of sand available. They range from fill sand to frac sand, mason sand, and beyond. Read on to find out about frac sand and other available options and get some helpful tips for choosing the right one. Tip #1: Learn the Types of Sand Sand is a fine aggregate derived from natural sources such as the beach or created by crushing rock into tiny granules. Each type of sand is derived from different source materials, with frac sand on the finer end of the spectrum usually composed primarily of quartz, which produces a durable, uniform grain and concrete sand from a combination of gneiss, trap rock, granite, and limestone. The types of sand used in construction are typically coarser and slightly larger. Pit sand, river sand, and concrete sand all play important roles in construction in that they are all frequently used for concrete foundations and pads. Their non-uniform shape and larger size create stronger cement. Tip #2: Understand the Applications Don’t just buy a bunch of sand and assume that it will be a good fit for any project. Determine exactly which building applications will require sand in advance and purchase one or more of the varieties of sand described above to meet the project’s unique needs. Mixing concrete is just one application for sand in a building project. Fill sand, an aggregate composed of grains of many shapes and sizes is perfect for raising areas that need filling in since it can be compacted and it drains better than many other varieties. For finishing work that requires plastering, mason’s sand offers a consistently fine grit and uniform shape that provides a smoother finish. Tip #3: Choose a Reputable Supplier The best way to ensure that the sand being used in a building project is the right coarseness and size is to find a reliable supplier. Work with a company that offers a variety of different sands and will offer detailed information about each of its products. Some suppliers produce their own sand, while others purchase it from mines or manufacturers. Don’t be afraid to ask about the source of the sand and what kinds of testing its manufacturer uses to ensure consistent quality. This is especially relevant when buying manufactured sand, or M-sand, which comes in a wide variety of gradations, colors, and levels of purity. Even natural sand should undergo batch testing for potential impurities and careful screening to ensure that it meets buyers’ specifications. The Bottom Line There are a lot of different varieties of sand out there and each has a different intended application. When choosing sand for a new construction project, project managers should be particular about where their sand is coming from and how its manufacturer has tested its quality. They should work with a supplier that has representatives available to answer questions they may have and should be confident they’re working with the right materials to produce the best possible results.
Aluminium glazing systems by Kawneer feature at Welsh University’s new creative and digital centre. Architectural glazing systems by leading UK manufacturer Kawneer played a key role in a new state-of-the-art building which is at the heart of Wales’ creative and digital future. Kawneer’s AA®110 curtain walling, AA®720 doors and window vents, and series 190 doors feature on the £10 million new creative and digital centre, Canolfan S4C Yr Egin, located on the University of Wales Trinity Saint David’s (UWTSD) Carmarthen campus. Specified by BDP architects, they were installed over 10 months by a team of up to eight from Kawneer-approved dealer APiC UK for main contractor Kier Construction. The AA®110 zone-drained curtain walling with 65mm sightlines was used alongside Kawneer’s thermally superior AA®720 doors and series 190 automatic entrance doors on the ground floor which houses a spacious public café alongside performance space and auditorium as well as resources for community groups and offices for the building’s administrative staff. The AA®110 system also features on the first floor, which is let to the centre’s main anchor tenant – Welsh language broadcaster S4C – for its headquarters (corporate, communications, finance, business affairs and legal departments) alongside actuator-operated AA®720 top-hung, open-out window vents. And it also features on the third floor, which is let to a number of different companies working in the creative and digital sector, as well as on a clerestory lantern above an atrium which overarches the three storeys. Many of these tenants will offer work experience to UWTSD students, allowing them to make the most of the university’s connections during their studies. BDP’s award-winning design was based on the close relationship between the university, prospective tenants of the centre and the wider community. This relationship, or trinity, is reflected in its form – a simple triangle that grows from Carmarthenshire’s soil, a titular reference to Yr Egin – a Welsh play on words referencing energy and birth. The layout of the building encourages collaboration, communication and interaction between all users of the building, where initial ideas can be shared and developed – an incubator for the establishment of new companies and a breeding ground for a new generation of creative and technical people. Externally, the theme of trinity is expressed through the use of differing materials in a tripartite arrangement – a dynamic, reflective volume is seen to float over a solid plinth at ground level and a translucent intermediate layer reinforces the distinction between plinth and reflective object. The 3,600m2 building is linked to the main campus by a large public square which allows for the staging of a variety of outdoor activities in its stunning Carmarthenshire location between the Pembrokeshire coast and the Brecon Beacons. On the use of Kawneer’s systems, BDP’s project architect noted: “As most of the façade comprises curtain wall we needed a system that could meet a wide range of performance requirements. We specified Kawneer due to their extensive range of features which met the functional and aesthetic demands of the project. “The Kawneer curtain walling had a key role in the project. As a naturally ventilated building it has an active façade that reacts to changing environmental conditions. The Kawneer system houses the various components that protect the interior from the elements while allowing air to flow through. “A key element of the building’s aesthetic was to create a distinct character for each level of the building – a challenge for a facade almost entirely constructed from curtain wall. This challenge was met by the extensive range of Kawneer features, especially the fin capping, which was vital to the characterisation of the different elements of the facade.” The durability, strength to weight ratio and life cycle benefits of aluminium were key factors in the consideration of Kawneer’s system when specifying the external envelope. APiC UK senior sales and estimating technician Andrew Finn said: “Working with Kawneer we were able to offer solutions for all the differing project requirements including profiled vertical faced caps with new dies for the 100mm and 150mm profiles to the ground-floor curtain wall which was specified to accommodate the vertical movement of the building. “The 100mm, 150mm and 200mm vertical faced caps provide a strong vertical emphasis to the curtain wall. The use of differing sizes and finishes to these are designed to provide a ‘flickering effect”. Canolfan S4C Yr Egin was opened by the Rt Hon Carwyn Jones AM, first Minister of Wales, in October 2018 and has since won a RICS Wales award for best commercial building. RICS judges said the team behind the project – including Mott McDonald, BDP, Rural Office for Architecture, and the University of Wales Trinity St David – had succeeded in designing a scheme that encouraged occupiers to collaborate, network and exchange information and ideas, to innovate and create jobs. For further information about Canolfan S4C Yr Egin, please visit https://yregin.cymru/
