A refurbishment project to deliver high-quality office space and environmental improvements at the headquarters of West Yorkshire Combined Authority, has reached a major new milestone. Fit-out and refurbishment specialist contractor, Willmott Dixon Interiors has completed work on the renovation of the third and fourth floors of Wellington House, a five-storey
Willmott Dixon Interiors has furthered its track-record for transforming the interior of iconic London buildings, with the construction of new office accommodation at the Grade I-listed National Gallery. The fit-out and refurbishment specialist contractor has delivered additional space and state-of-the-art facilities in the east ground floor and part of the
PwC’s new Merchant Square offices will ‘transform city into a global centre of innovation’ Leading construction and fit-out company, Gilbert-Ash, has handed over one of the most ground-breaking projects to be completed in Northern Ireland in recent years. The award-winning company was the fit-out contractor for PwC at Merchant Square,
Modern and contemporary furniture pieces are a must for creating welcoming spaces. Simplicity has been a recurring theme in modern furniture and décor pieces. This trend has undergone series of changes since it first surfaced in the late 1800s. It’s not surprising that many elements now come with minimal embellishments.
A Dudley-based furniture manufacturer has secured new funding to kickstart its recovery plans and expand its interior fit-out division. Zero Point Eight secured a £120k investment from BCRS Business Loans through the Midlands Engine Investment Fund’s (MEIF) Small Business Loan Fund – backed by the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme
The University of Birmingham Dubai has appointed Office Inspirations and Orangebox to help create a comfortable and inspiring working environment for students and staff at its new campus, due to open in Autumn 2021. Following a successful tender process, the companies will provide furniture, fixtures and fittings across the state-of-the-art
Living spaces have been getting smaller over the years. We can’t overlook the perks of this growing trend. For instance, it’s a great way to start if you’re passionate about adopting a minimalist lifestyle. More so, it can help you reduce your carbon footprint. A lot of homeowners with tiny
Located on Nottingham’s picturesque riverside opposite the Lady Bay nature reserve and West Bridgford lies a brand-new waterfront development – The Yacht Club. Whilst the apartments ooze sophistication and style, the location offers an abundance of uninterrupted scenic waterside views. Overlooking the tranquil River Trent, the surroundings are striking no
Over the past 12 months, there has been an increase in searches for colourful kitchens, with ‘black kitchens’ leading on a 128% increase and ‘green kitchens’ following close behind at 126%. Although a colourful kitchen can be beautiful, there are many things to consider to ensure you get it right,
Providing for the demand for industrial-chic office interiors, F. Ball and Co. Ltd.’s Stopgap 800 Wearcoat has helped to create a stripped-back warehouse feel with a visually striking floor finish in a unique London workspace. A self-levelling floor compound for upgrading and renovating new and existing internal floors in light
A refurbishment project to deliver high-quality office space and environmental improvements at the headquarters of West Yorkshire Combined Authority, has reached a major new milestone. Fit-out and refurbishment specialist contractor, Willmott Dixon Interiors has completed work on the renovation of the third and fourth floors of Wellington House, a five-storey office building in Leeds city centre. The project is transforming 48,300 sq ft of office space into a flexible and collaborative working environment, with improved accessibility for employees and members of the public. The new space is being equipped with a reconfigured entrance lobby and internal layout, as well as larger conference rooms for public meetings. Externally the 1980s structure has been re-roofed and photovoltaic panels have been installed to provide much needed improvements to the building’s energy efficiency and reduce its carbon footprint. The refurbishment contract was awarded to Willmott Dixon Interiors via Major Works England and Northern Ireland, part of the Scape National Construction framework. The project is expected to be completed by November 2021. Phil Crowther, regional director at Willmott Dixon Interiors, said: “We’re making excellent progress in the delivery of modern and fit for purpose office space at Wellington House. It’s especially pleasing to be able to handover these high-quality new facilities, given the huge challenge of ensuring the safety of our team throughout the pandemic. We’re looking forward to delivering the next phase of the project and continuing the positive relationships we have forged in the local community.” As part of its delivery, Willmott Dixon Interiors generated a social return on investment of more than £860,000, by investing time and resources in local projects centred on employability, people skills, career workshops and mentoring opportunities. These opportunities were created by partnership working with the Department for Work and Pensions on a Mentoring Circles programme; the Ministry of Justice on a programme in local prisons; and Barnsley College who Willmott Dixon Interiors have worked with to create two industry placements for students as part of their T-Level Qualification. Wellington House is the latest refurbishment project to be delivered by Willmott Dixon Interiors in Yorkshire, following the transformation of Quarry House in central Leeds on behalf of a government body. For more information, visit: www.willmottdixoninteriors.co.uk
Willmott Dixon Interiors has furthered its track-record for transforming the interior of iconic London buildings, with the construction of new office accommodation at the Grade I-listed National Gallery. The fit-out and refurbishment specialist contractor has delivered additional space and state-of-the-art facilities in the east ground floor and part of the existing basement areas of the world-famous gallery on Trafalgar Square. The scheme, called the Accommodation Hub, has created a six-floor courtyard infill extension that will provide offices for over 250 members of staff who will be relocating from existing offices in the neighbouring St Vincent House and the Gallery’s Wilkins Building. The back of house works included the removal of partitions, subdivisions and lowered ceilings throughout the central ground floor area and the creation of a modern and flexible working environment with high ceilings. Two covered atria have been created in the office lightwell and Belvedere lightwells, and new floors have been inserted in the eight-storey office lightwell to provide new office space. The basement areas have also been overhauled to provide additional storage and meeting space and the original brickwork of the extended part of the building, designed by Edward M Barry, has been sympathetically restored. It is the latest project to be completed by Willmott Dixon Interiors at the National Gallery, following the contractor’s complete refurbishment of Gallery 32, which reopened to the public as ‘The Julia and Hans Rausing Room’ in July 2020. One of the largest and most visited rooms of the National Gallery, it displays 17th-century Italian paintings by artists including Caravaggio, Artemisia and Orazio Gentileschi, Guido Reni and Guercino. Graham Shaw, managing director of Willmott Dixon Interiors, said: ”It has been a real privilege to deliver further enhancements to the National Gallery. The creation of new and modern office accommodation will greatly benefit the gallery’s existing workforce, providing significantly upgraded facilities that will offer opportunities for flexible working and collaboration. We’re incredibly proud to have delivered this project following the successful full refurbishment of Gallery 32 last year. It further demonstrates our track-record for transforming historic buildings and improving visitor experiences for years to come.” Delivered by main contractor, Willmott Dixon Interiors, the project team included architects, Purcell; structural engineer, The Morton Partnership; Andrew Reid & Partners as services engineer; Faithful+Gould as QS and commissioning manager; fire consultant, IFC; planning consultant, Montagu Evans; and acoustic consultant, Waterman Acoustics.
PwC’s new Merchant Square offices will ‘transform city into a global centre of innovation’ Leading construction and fit-out company, Gilbert-Ash, has handed over one of the most ground-breaking projects to be completed in Northern Ireland in recent years. The award-winning company was the fit-out contractor for PwC at Merchant Square, a £14million project which has created 200,000 sq ft of Grade A office space over nine floors in Belfast city centre. The offices will accommodate up to 3,000 employees at the former Oyster and Royston buildings, in the heart of the business district and adjacent to the City Hall. Gilbert-Ash Managing Director, Ray Hutchinson said the new offices are one of the most digitally advanced spaces in the city and will cement Belfast’s position as a global centre of innovation. He said: “We are always very proud to work on landmark buildings, but this project in our home city is one we are particularly proud of as Merchant Square has the power to be truly transformative for Belfast. “While the building boasts an array of technology, the design features include elements of the industries which Belfast has been built upon. It is a celebration of our past while looking to the future with great confidence. “The interiors within PwC’s offices incorporates the city’s industrial and linen heritage as well as a number of Northern Ireland’s high-profile landmarks, such as the internationally iconic Harland & Wolff cranes. Themes running throughout the building have also been inspired by the city’s ship building and aviation industries. “The building also reflects the geography of Belfast with the River Lagan and Botanic Gardens incorporated into intricately crafted bespoke interiors.” The landmark building incorporates technology-enabled client collaboration and event spaces. It also includes a state-of-the-art digital hub that will provide the infrastructure and environment to inspire and support innovation. Ray Hutchinson said: “We have worked with excellent local partners to bring this fit-out project to life, with advanced logistical planning and management during what has been a challenging year for many industries, including construction. “This is a building which will help foster an excellent working environment and help inspire and attract the best people to work in Belfast. We are very proud to be handing it over to PwC now.” PwC in Northern Ireland is PwC UK’s fastest-growing UK region and Merchant Square represents its largest regional office outside London. Kevin MacAllister, PwC’s Regional Market Leader, Northern Ireland said: “This is an exciting time for PwC, and we are very proud to be moving into our stand-out new home at Merchant Square delivered by the excellent team at Gilbert-Ash. “Belfast is PwC’s recognised global centre for technology, digital advisory services and research and is a major exporter of technology and regulatory advisory services. “This move underlines the PwC Executive Board’s confidence in Northern Ireland, and we have already begun a major recruitment drive with 771 jobs being created over the next five years. “Merchant Square will enable PwC to continue to grow in local, national and international markets from Belfast.” Gilbert-Ash attributes its continued success to its ‘As One’ approach and its unique working culture and family environment as an employee-owned company. It continues to complete a broad portfolio of successful construction projects across sectors including arts and culture, workplace, hotels and leisure, science and technology, retail and residential. To find out more about Gilbert-Ash visit www.gilbert-ash.com.
Modern and contemporary furniture pieces are a must for creating welcoming spaces. Simplicity has been a recurring theme in modern furniture and décor pieces. This trend has undergone series of changes since it first surfaced in the late 1800s. It’s not surprising that many elements now come with minimal embellishments. Apart from that, several individuals are embracing clean lines, neutral walls, and eco-friendly décor pieces. More homeowners prefer open floor spaces, which is a key factor in clutter-free interiors. Furniture Island’s website is user-friendly, so you don’t have to worry about finding delightful pieces that meet your needs. You can also take advantage of different filters to narrow down your options. Without much ado, here are the top reasons why you should visit www.furniture-island.co.uk right away. A wide range of products One of the features that make Furniture Island stand out from the rest is its wide range of products. Customers’ tastes differ and keep evolving. They are proactive about satisfying the needs of their customers and have what it takes to produce furniture pieces of different designs. Variety is the spice of life, and these words hold in the home décor sphere. Reputable furniture suppliers often have fresh inventory from time to time. They also update their stores with the latest designs. Taking a look at their past work will reveal their level of expertise which is top-notch. Professional staff Furniture Island hires highly-skilled experts with several years of experience. These individuals have more than a basic understanding of the products and customers’ behavior. They will prioritize your preferences and budget before offering suggestions. Their customer service support staffs are courteous and offer timely support to both new and returning customers. You can get additional information about contemporary furniture pieces before checking out. High-quality furniture pieces As you navigate the Furniture Island website, you will discover that they offer corner sofas, cabinets, wardrobe pieces, dining tables, to mention a few. The manufacturers they collaborate with never run out of innovative ideas, so it’s easy for them to design functional pieces. Many homeowners want comfy and luxury furniture pieces at a fraction of the price. Furniture Island can help you design the home of your dreams. You will be saving money in the long run once you take advantage of their offers. The bottom line is to have a reasonable budget and do your due diligence. Exceptional service It’s common for online visitors to run a background check on a brand before doing business with them. Furniture Island’s past and current clients usually share glowing reviews about them. Their staff will allow customers to weigh their options instead of pressuring them to make a decision. You can go through their testimonial section to get a glimpse of their customized services and products. Convenient location Location can be a deal-breaker when shopping for stylish furniture pieces. This is the real reason why you need to choose a supplier in your area. It’s ideal to consider the additional cost of transporting the pieces to your home when searching for a furniture store. Furniture Island delivery charges to Mainland England, Mainland Scotland, and Wales are quite affordable. Ensure that you go through the terms and conditions regarding their delivery service.
A Dudley-based furniture manufacturer has secured new funding to kickstart its recovery plans and expand its interior fit-out division. Zero Point Eight secured a £120k investment from BCRS Business Loans through the Midlands Engine Investment Fund’s (MEIF) Small Business Loan Fund – backed by the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS). Since being established five years ago, furniture manufacturer Zero Point Eight’s joinery division has built a strong reputation for designing, manufacturing and installing furniture, alongside fulfilling bespoke orders using woodworking and assembly techniques. Directors Mark Baker and William Evans say the company now has its sights set on recovery and growth following a difficult year due to the disruption of the Covid-19 pandemic. “We are delighted to have secured MEIF funding, which will initially enable us to manufacture pre-existing joinery and furniture orders, ” said Mark Baker. “We also plan to expand our interior fit-out division, which was established two years ago and is focused on providing turnkey interiors to the private residential care, NHS, education, retail, hospitality and commercial sectors, which includes manufactured furniture, ceilings, walls, mechanical, electrical and floor installations. With 45 full time staff at our base in Netherton, we also plan to recruit an additional two people in the coming year. Our hope is to return to pre-coronavirus turnover levels by the second quarter of 2021.” Lynn Wyke, Senior Business Development Manager at BCRS, also commented: “We are so pleased to have supported Zero Point Eight, allowing the company to achieve its growth and recovery plans. As a lender of social and economic impact, it is excellent to see that the company not only expects its turnover to return to pre-coronavirus levels this year, but also that two additional jobs are to be created, which will be vital in helping our local communities recover too. We are committed to supporting businesses across the West Midlands region that are unable to secure finance from traditional lenders.” The Midlands Engine Investment Fund project is supported financially by the European Union using funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020 and the European Investment Bank. The Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS), which closed to new applications on 31st March 2021, was managed by the British Business Bank on behalf of, and with the financial backing of the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and industrial Strategy (BEIS). Businesses based in the West Midlands and surrounding areas can secure loans from £10,000 to £150,000 from BCRS Business Loans to support growth and recovery plans.
The University of Birmingham Dubai has appointed Office Inspirations and Orangebox to help create a comfortable and inspiring working environment for students and staff at its new campus, due to open in Autumn 2021. Following a successful tender process, the companies will provide furniture, fixtures and fittings across the state-of-the-art campus. Students and staff will be able to work and relax in stylish, efficient social learning and study spaces. From the open and welcoming atrium space to the digital-focussed library, Orangebox will supply a range of tables, chairs, sofas and other fixtures which mirror those which have already proved popular with students in Birmingham. Dubai-based Office Inspirations will install the furnishings on the iconic new campus, recreating the style and atmosphere of study and social spaces on the University’s Birmingham campus. University of Birmingham Dubai Provost, Professor David Sadler, said: “Our new building has been designed as a comfortable and exciting venue for learning, where innovative, multidisciplinary teaching will provide students with the inspiration to successfully progress their studies – whether collaboratively or individually. “Office Inspirations and Orangebox will help us to deliver a comfortable and inspiring learning environment in Dubai that students and staff will enjoy. Everyone – students and staff alike – is eagerly looking forward to moving into our brand-new, bespoke campus building later this year. We believe that, in our new academic home, we will deliver an educational experience like no other in Dubai.” Designed to reflect real-world working practices, the new campus will encourage students to carry out research in interdisciplinary teams across all academic subjects. Flexible study spaces will ensure students have a learning environment suited to their needs; whether in large lecture theatres and laboratories or smaller seminar and tutorial rooms. Anne Barron , Dubai Regional Manager with Orangebox, said: “Orangebox are honoured to have been appointed as a partner and contractor on this prestigious project for University of Birmingham and its new Dubai campus. Having worked together on various projects in both the UK and UAE, we are delighted to continue the relationship offering engaging and social spaces within such esteemed educational institute.” Michelle Plant, Sales Manager at Office Inspirations said: “Office Inspirations are delighted to have been taking part in creating comfortable and inspiring working environments for the new campus of the University of Birmingham in Dubai. We aim to meet all expectations and comfort for both students and staff members and are indeed looking forward to pursuing this collaboration with such a reputable educational institute. We are determined to offer exceptional experiences like no other in Dubai.” With architecture inspired by the historic Aston Webb buildings on the Birmingham campus, the Dubai facilities will use shaded open-air courtyard spaces to create an enjoyable and productive student experience. The buildings will sit next to parkland offering sports pitches and an open air event space, whilst new student accommodation is a short walk away, across the parkland. As the first global top 100 and UK Russell Group university to establish a campus in Dubai, The University of Birmingham Dubai delivers the highest-quality education underpinned by a growing research focus in a leading global educational hub. Prospective students can find more information on applying for courses at the University of Birmingham Dubai at https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/dubai/study/apply/index.aspx
Living spaces have been getting smaller over the years. We can’t overlook the perks of this growing trend. For instance, it’s a great way to start if you’re passionate about adopting a minimalist lifestyle. More so, it can help you reduce your carbon footprint. A lot of homeowners with tiny apartments often look for space-saving furniture that will complement other home décor elements. This type of furniture is the key to keeping your home organized and will make your stuff easily accessible. Fortunately, brands like Furco.co.uk are proactive about providing functional solutions for small spaces. It’s imperative to invest in the furniture pieces we’ve listed below. 1. Sofa beds Sofa beds are both practical and comfortable. They are now a favorite piece for small apartments and families of all sizes. A sofa bed will offer a 3-in-1 function comprising of a bed, sofa, and storage option. The creative storage solution is useful for storing your bedding and other items. Corner sofa beds are versatile and will come in handy when you’re alone or in the company of your family or guests. 2. Floating desk A floating deck is a practical, convenient, and cost-effective solution for reading and working. Some wall-mounted models feature storage sections. The good thing is that this piece of furniture will only take minimal space in your home. You can install a floating desk in your living room, bedroom, or home office. It comes in different variations, so it’s best to assess your needs and the space you can spare before making a purchase. In case you’re planning to use it for work, go for an option that is large enough for your PC and a few supplies. 3. Wardrobes Built-in wardrobes remain one of the top modern living ideas. You can incorporate double hanging to maximize your space. Another space-saving hack is to place storage baskets on top of the wardrobe for storing accessories. Install hooks on the inside of your wardrobe door to keep jewelry and other accessories. It’s ideal to use the floor space in your wardrobe creatively too. Try decluttering your wardrobe from time to time. This will save you time and space. 4. Wall-mounted ironing board We usually pass a message to others with our choice of clothing. Clothes that are crispy and wrinkle-free will boost your confidence, thereby making you irresistible. This type of ironing board is a must if space is at a premium in your laundry room. Install a quality one in the right spot, and remember to fold it once you’re through with ironing. New models of wall-mounted ironing boards have features such as flexible board, adjustable height, built-in hanger, and can even double as a mirror. 5. Murphy bed A murphy bed will ensure that you have enough space to entertain your guests and sleep comfortably. This furniture piece relies on a smooth mechanism that enables it to emerge and retract seamlessly. It’s suitable for individuals who want to use their guest room as office space without trading one for the other. Most murphy beds come with features like shelves, drawers, and desk flaps.
Located on Nottingham’s picturesque riverside opposite the Lady Bay nature reserve and West Bridgford lies a brand-new waterfront development – The Yacht Club. Whilst the apartments ooze sophistication and style, the location offers an abundance of uninterrupted scenic waterside views. Overlooking the tranquil River Trent, the surroundings are striking no matter the season and the location is conveniently within walking distance of West Bridgford, Nottingham train station and the bustling city centre, whilst still being far enough away to maintain a peaceful ambience, for a central yet serene lifestyle. The Yacht club consists of 81 beautifully designed apartments, ranging from one to three bedrooms and each and every property has views of the river and is fitted with contemporary furnishings. All apartments feature either a generous balcony or terrace with views over Lady Bay nature reserve and the picturesque views will remain uninterrupted, allowing natural light to penetrate through, creating a spacious and breathable living space for optimum wellbeing. Jules Hunt, director at FHP Living, said: “Everything about these properties and the location of the development is idyllic. From the stunning surrounding scenery, to the convenient location and abundance of lighting. Every single feature is crafted to enhance the natural surroundings, for a truly beautiful living environment.” Jules continues: “Each room has been designed carefully, ensuring the décor and natural lighting go hand in hand to create a harmonious setting – neutral tones, soft textures and plush furnishings all contribute to a contemporary and chic, yet calming home, which can be adapted to the homeowner’s personality by adding personal touches and finishes.” This open plan living and kitchen area allows a smooth flowing transition from dining to living, creating a social environment which is fantastic for entertaining. Marble flooring adds a fresh yet timeless appearance, contributing to the luxurious tone of this property, whilst the metallic pendant lighting creates a decorative and dramatic addition. Furthermore, the handle-less designs of the cupboards contribute to the sleek and streamlined feel of the room. Soft and neutral hues with hints of mint work well with the large windows, enabling natural light to flood and fill the living and dining area. The master bedroom presents itself as the epitome of luxury. Contrasting textures of soft materials and clean lines add character to the room, whilst the muted background makes way for the deep pop of colour in the headboard. Jules continues: “The deep tones of the royal blue headboard go hand in hand with the views of the water immediately outside of the window, allowing the outdoors in for a tranquil sanctuary.” Smart polished fittings with a mixture of marbled and wooden textures help strike the perfect balance between a clean-cut and homely feel in the en-suite bathroom. The overall minimalistic aesthetic helps create a relaxing environment, whilst the use of natural materials accentuates the warmth and comfort of the room. A combination of neutral tones, natural materials, botanical elements and a statement mirror wall complete the elegant and polished reception area and corridor, which is an impactful and modern aspect of the property. Wherever you are in this delightful home, you are never far from the stunning views of the serene river, glistening in the background.
Over the past 12 months, there has been an increase in searches for colourful kitchens, with ‘black kitchens’ leading on a 128% increase and ‘green kitchens’ following close behind at 126%. Although a colourful kitchen can be beautiful, there are many things to consider to ensure you get it right, and one of the most important is colour psychology. According to the Theory of Colour Psychology and Colour Harmony, colour psychology is important because different colours can have a significant impact on human behaviour. By having an appreciation of the psychological influence of various colours, you can begin to style your kitchen around particular moods and mindsets. Wren Kitchens have taken a look at what emotions different colours can evoke, the right colours to choose in your kitchen, and what to avoid at all costs! How to pick the right colour Give your kitchen cool class, with shades of black styled to offer a sense of sophistication and glamour, while contrasting whites can be used to enhance feelings of simplicity, stability, and clarity, perfect for family time. When colouring your kitchen, monochromatic blacks and whites can be combined effectively to offer complementary contrast, and a dynamic cooking and socialising environment. Additionally, the kitchen is all about experiencing an eruption of senses, whether it be the gorgeous smell of bubbling food or the spectacular taste of your marvellous creations. With this in mind, consider injecting subtle elements of orange, with the bright colour associated with feelings of comfort, food, and fun. The different emotions When styling your space, it’s crucial to consider the entire emotional spectrum, and how different colours can influence certain moods: Calm serenity For total tranquillity, choose shades next to each other on the colour wheel. These are called harmonious. Specifically, blues and greens are great for bringing calmness, balance, and equilibrium to your space, while a threatening red is perhaps one to avoid. Positivity Yellow is considered the colour of confidence and self-esteem, and green is associated with fun and frivolity. Reddish hues can also be used to give you feelings of power and excitement. Love and romance You can make use of pink tints dotted throughout, to bring about feelings of warmth, love, and femininity. However, pink is, perhaps surprisingly, particularly potent, so make sure to use shades in moderation. Concentration In an era where remote working has become the norm, it’s increasingly important to have a space that complements your working life. To help build feelings of focus and concentration, combine soft blues, aimed at calming the mind, violets, proven to heighten awareness, and earthy browns styled towards seriousness and supportiveness. Colour mistakes to avoid at all costs Not considering colour hue – A colour is broken down into different tones, and warm and sharp hues stimulate vastly different feelings. It’s important to take this into account when styling your kitchen. Forgetting about lighting – Your room can look vastly different depending on whether you have overhead lighting, lamps, or natural light illuminating the space. Make sure you consider how lighting changes your kitchen when you’re deciding on your perfect colour. Over-using one colour – The main thing to avoid when decorating your home is over-using colour. This applies to dark, light, and pastel tones, as well as walls, furniture, and features. It is possible to have too much of a good thing, so don’t get blindsided by a colour you love. Combining too many colours in one space – Similarly, don’t fall into the trap of combining too many colours in one space. This can be overwhelming and overstimulating. Blending too many moods can also negate the positive impact of colour; determine how you want a room to make you feel and stick to shades that elevate and enhance these emotions.
Providing for the demand for industrial-chic office interiors, F. Ball and Co. Ltd.’s Stopgap 800 Wearcoat has helped to create a stripped-back warehouse feel with a visually striking floor finish in a unique London workspace. A self-levelling floor compound for upgrading and renovating new and existing internal floors in light to heavy-duty applications, Stopgap 800 Wearcoat is designed to deliver a standalone wearing surface in industrial settings where floorcoverings are not required to be installed. It is also popular for domestic and commercial projects because of its eye-catching, natural appearance, and it has been used by contractors from M.D.A. Contracts Ltd. to create a hard-wearing floor in the reception, coffee bar and flexible work area at Expressway, a community of business suites underneath Silvertown Way flyover, adjacent to the Royal Docks. M.D.A. Contracts Ltd. Managing Director, Glenn Alexander, explains the choice: “The client’s brief was an easy-to-maintain, modern, concrete look that would stand the test of time. They’d originally requested a pumped screed, but due to height restrictions, we suggested Stopgap 800 Wearcoat instead as it’s trowel applied and it’s the only product out there that gives a polished concrete look.” Upon arrival, old carpet tiles and adhesive residues had already been removed, revealing a sound, and smooth concrete substrate. Dust and debris were then cleared, before a moisture test was carried out, the results of which showed relative humidity levels were below 75%. This allowed the contractors to proceed without the requirement of a waterproof surface membrane to prevent potential floor failure. The concrete subfloor was then primed with two dilute coats of F. Ball’s Stopgap P131 general purpose primer, which is designed to prevent the unacceptably rapid drying of subsequently applied Stopgap levelling compounds and promote their adhesion to the substrate. Following this, the application of Stopgap 800 Wearcoat commenced in the 130m2 space. Owing to the removal of internal walls to create a larger reception, the product had to be applied at varying depths between 5-8mm. A spiked roller was used to eliminate entrapped air and smooth out flow lines to give a more uniform surface appearance. After the levelling compound had cured, contractors returned to seal the floor for its protection and to enable easy cleaning and maintenance. Glenn Alexander added: “The client was over the moon with the final result. They had envisaged a standard, monotone floor, so they were surprised to see the character and depth of the colour and patterns — they fell in love with it. “We use only F. Ball products for several reasons, including the fact that they are guaranteed if there are any issues, and the support you get from their team – you’ve got a trusted manufacturer you know you can rely on.”
