Just over 12 months after the senior team at specialist commercial interior design business, Ben Johnson, completed a management buyout, the company has gone from strength to strength, expanding into new sectors, as well as opening a new London office. In December 2022, Emma Dodsley, Lee Fleming and Matthew Day
Glencar, a leading construction company that was recently ranked amongst Europe’s fastest growing businesses, has today announced that it been awarded a new contract to fit out a new 240,000 sq ft carbon neutral in operation warehouse and office complex in Dublin for leading logistics solutions, integrated freight and transportation
This month SKArating is announcing an exciting change in its leadership and governance, as well as new plans to scale up to support the growing need to reshape sustainability in the fit-out world. Developed in 2008 to help landlords and tenants systemise sustainability and assess fit-out projects against a practical
Collaborative approach to retrofit and reuse generates 91 tonnes in equivalent carbon savings Fit out and refurbishment specialist, Overbury, has helped multidisciplinary sustainable development firm, Arup to bring to life its vision for a larger, more sustainable, fully hybrid workspace in Manchester. Arup has been based at 3 Piccadilly Place
Tate Liverpool today announced Gilbert-Ash as the main contractor for a major reimagining of the landmark gallery on Royal Albert Dock. This £29.75 million redevelopment will transform one of the UK’s most important spaces for modern and contemporary art. Designed by 6a architects, the plans have recently been granted planning
Zentia, the UK’s market leader in complete ceiling solutions, proudly announces its achievement at the ‘FIS Training Awards’, taking home the accolade for the ‘FIS Member Training Programme’ category, after receiving commendation for its one-of-a-kind installation school. The Zentia Installation School has been recognised as an industry benchmark and forms
Construction has begun in Antarctica for the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) with specialists arriving at Rothera Research Station to progress several projects to secure the future of polar operations and research. In a first for the Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme (AIMP), some of the construction team along with BAS team
Exclusive National Portrait Gallery event provides backdrop to book launch Leading construction and fit-out contractor, Gilbert-Ash has launched the second volume of its Landmark Landscapes publication at an exclusive event at the National Portrait Gallery. The beautifully designed book features a bespoke collection of standout buildings Gilbert-Ash has worked on
Known for their durability, versatility and timeless beauty, quartz worktops offer a range of benefits that make them a top choice for any residential development. While the initial investment may be higher than some alternative materials, the long-term benefits and the value added to any property make quartz worktops a
Commercial fit out and refurbishment specialist, ICON Projects, with 3 office locations in the UK including London, has recently welcomed Ashley Kemp to its senior leadership team as Operations Director. Ashley brings a wealth of expertise to the business, having worked with Tier-1 fit out contractors over the past 15 years
Just over 12 months after the senior team at specialist commercial interior design business, Ben Johnson, completed a management buyout, the company has gone from strength to strength, expanding into new sectors, as well as opening a new London office. In December 2022, Emma Dodsley, Lee Fleming and Matthew Day led the buyout of Ben Johnson following the retirement of managing director, Adrian Rumble. They were advised on the deal by Susan Clark, partner in LCF Law’s corporate team. Following the MBO, Ben Johnson, which is headquartered in York with another office in Newcastle, has won a string of prestigious contracts both locally and nationally. This has resulted in the company opening a third office in Fitzrovia, close to both Regent’s Park and the landmark BT Tower. Over the past 12 months, Ben Johnson has also diversified the sectors it works in, with major contract wins seeing the company completing fit outs spanning more than 40,000 sq ft on behalf of financial and professional services clients, as well as a further 40,000 sq ft for gaming and technology businesses. The company has also completed projects for engineering businesses, mixed use schemes and fit outs in medical and laboratory environments that cover approximately 30,000 sq ft in each sector. Another high-profile recently completed project includes a 25,000 sq ft fit out of office and laboratory space within London’s iconic Battersea Power Station development. Finance director, Lee Fleming, who has worked at Ben Johnson since 2005, explained: “The MBO followed two years of careful succession planning with Adrian’s support to ensure everyone had clearly defined roles and that each stage of the process was prepared. It’s paid dividends and although businesses often lose people during takeovers, we haven’t lost a single employee from our team, which is ultimately the most important part of our business. “Crucially, Susan also played a vital role in simplifying the whole takeover process and explaining onerous points in plain English, as well as working with us to plan dates and get the details right, to ensure everything ran smoothly. “Strengthening our presence on both the M1 and A1 corridors, spanning the north of south of England, by opening a London office, also stands us in good stead as we grow our national footprint.” Director Emma Dodsley, who oversees sales and marketing, added: “I joined Ben Johnson 13 years ago with the promise of being part of a future MBO team. Since we took over it’s been a privilege to build on what Adrian had created. “Office transformations will always be a big part of our work and especially now with businesses recognising that modern offices must provide a sense of community and not just desks, in order to encourage employees to enjoy being back in the office. As a result, we’ve completed projects for the likes of Reward Finance and Equifax during 2023. “Essentially though, we had ambitions to expand into more sectors, which has been a key focus over the past 12 months. We’re now working with manufacturers that aspire to offer first-class staff breakout areas to aid recruitment and gaming companies that want a genuine wow factor as soon as you walk into their premises, as well as several private hospitals and clinics where patients want to feel indulged. We’re now looking forward to building on this throughout 2024.” LCF Law’s Susan Clark said: “The success of Ben Johnson’s MBO is down to very careful succession planning, and the importance of this can never be underestimated. Adrian had a carefully prepared exit strategy which he implemented over a long period of time and selected and appointed the right people to lead the MBO. “He also recognised the strengths in Emma, Lee and Matthew and mentored them to ensure it would be a smooth transaction and that they would all thrive in their roles. To see the business going from strength to strength and carving out a national reputation is testament to this and it’s exciting to see how Ben Johnson continues to develop over the coming years.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Glencar, a leading construction company that was recently ranked amongst Europe’s fastest growing businesses, has today announced that it been awarded a new contract to fit out a new 240,000 sq ft carbon neutral in operation warehouse and office complex in Dublin for leading logistics solutions, integrated freight and transportation specialists PRL Logistics. PRL provide clients with customised outsourced Logistics Solutions, Sales and Marketing services. The contract will see Glencar undertake full fit out works on the new warehouse development which was developed by Exeter Ireland and is situated at Aerodrome Business Park in Baldonell, Dublin (Unit R), close to other PRL facilities.. The scope of the works encompasses full-fit out, including racking, sprinklers, state of the art PV system, lighting, M&E plus associated civil engineering and enabling works. The project also includes fit out to the three story office space along with the provision of new welfare areas. Work is expected to commence on site in January and take 17 weeks to complete with PC expected early May. Speaking about the project appointment Rory McGillycuddy, Country Director Glencar Ireland said: “So soon after the successful conclusion to the fit-out works undertaken for IKEA at Greenogue in Dublin we are absolutely delighted to today confirm the award of our second fit-out contract to date and in quick succession in Ireland. As specialists in the Industrial and Logistics market we are bringing the considerable knowledge and expertise we have gained over the past seven years in the UK to Ireland where there is a strong demand for high quality construction and fit-out projects Our special projects division continues to go from strength to strength as we continue to leverage our exceptional fit-out works capability. Our team in Ireland and presence is expanding rapidly in response to the growing needs of Ireland’s expanding occupiers. Our track record in this space speaks for itself and we look forward to working closely with the team at PRL and delivering an outstanding project” Also commenting Richard Jones from PRL Logistics said: “Having seen the excellent work that Glencar recently completed for IKEA in addition to their exceptional credentials generally within the I&L space we had no hesitation in appointing them to undertake this package of important fit-out works on this impressive new unit in Baldonell. We very much like the collaborative nature of their approach and strong partnership mantra which is exactly how PRL like to operate and at the core of everything we do for our customers. We are very much looking forward to getting onsite with the Glencar team In January and delivering a first class outcome” To read more about PRL’s offering and operations in Ireland please visit https://www.prl.ie/our-services/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
This month SKArating is announcing an exciting change in its leadership and governance, as well as new plans to scale up to support the growing need to reshape sustainability in the fit-out world. Developed in 2008 to help landlords and tenants systemise sustainability and assess fit-out projects against a practical sustainability rating system, SKA is unique in that it is driven exclusively to make a positive impact. At the heart of SKA is a toolkit and assessment criteria that is free to use – costs are covered via training and certification. The scheme has now supported more than 12,000 fit-out projects to make responsible decisions. SKArating was initially developed by a group of industry professionals led by Skansen and supported by RICS and AECOM to focus on sustainability in fit-out, primarily in the commercial office, higher education, and retail space. The underlying philosophy of SKArating has always been to encourage all in the supply chain to make small changes in a practical way today. To establish SKArating in the market, RICS provided a platform to incubate the scheme, host information, and support the rating and certification process. The changes announced this week will see SkArating trade as an independent “not-for-profit” business. The new board is formed from people with a long-standing association with the scheme. Elina Grigoriou has chaired the SKArating Technical Committee since the scheme was first launched in 2008, and served on the SKArating Development Board as well as delivering the training of SKArating assessors. She is joined by Joe Croft, Charlie Law and Dave Wakelin who have been members of the Technical Committee for many years, and Iain McIlwee who has joined the board, cementing the Finishes and Interiors Sector’s strong association with the scheme. The Board has supported SKArating through its incubation with RICS and provides continuity as the scheme takes its next steps. SKA provides: The way SKArating operates will not be affected. Assessments will continue to be certified as they were under RICS’s stewardship. Assessors will continue to receive the same technical support that they have previously enjoyed through RICS, with updated processes for assessor accreditation and CPD. However, the board has plans to update the SKArating schemes to respond to an increasingly climate-aware fit-out industry, and to expand the sectors that SKArating can be used in. The board will be reaching out to industry experts, SKArating users, assessors, and clients to help develop the next iteration of the tool and the various schemes. Chairperson of the new SKA Board Elina Grigoriou stated: “This is an exciting time in the evolution of SKA. After 15 years developing the product and building awareness, we are now ready to step out on our own and work with our amazing community to take this scheme to the next level. With SKA now firmly established, it is time to take the next step and RICS has supported the leadership group to establish SKA as an independent social value business. “All of us on the new Board and our Technical advisors are passionate and committed to remaining true to the SKA values for its future direction. SKA will remain owned by the industry and run as a “not-for-profit” ensuring it is always acting in the best interest of the market.” Commenting on the changes, Janine Cole, Sustainability & Social Impact Director at Great Portland Estates plc stated: “GPE have used SKArating for several years and has supported the business in improving the sustainability performance of our smaller refurbishment projects. The flexible nature of the scheme makes it ideal for this type of project, as a result, it was recently included within “Our Brief for Creating Sustainable Spaces” as a requirement for our on floor fit out schemes. We look forward to working with the SKArating Board as they develop the scheme.” Ben Stubbs, Head of Sustainability (Built Environment) at UCL added: “At UCL, all our project teams are accountable for their impacts across a broad range of sustainability indicators. We recognise Ska’s potential to help us further reduce our impacts as we continue to update our institutional targets.” More details on the SKArating is available here: www.skarating.org Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Collaborative approach to retrofit and reuse generates 91 tonnes in equivalent carbon savings Fit out and refurbishment specialist, Overbury, has helped multidisciplinary sustainable development firm, Arup to bring to life its vision for a larger, more sustainable, fully hybrid workspace in Manchester. Arup has been based at 3 Piccadilly Place since 2014, and earlier this year committed to a further 15-year lease on a total of 36,000 sq. ft for their 500 colleagues at the Grade A Manchester office building. Owned by Longmead Capital, 3 Piccadilly Place has undergone significant improvements to build on its sustainability credentials on a pathway to net zero carbon. The building already boasts a BREEAM Excellent rating, Certified 100% renewably sourced energy, and a WiredScore Platinum mark. As its previous lease ended, Arup opted to expand its presence within 3 Piccadilly Place to capitalise on the building’s enhanced sustainability and well-being credentials. The commitment to 3 Piccadilly Place aligns with Arup’s national estates investment strategy for net-zero by 2030. The Overbury team worked closely with the Arup team to transform its workspace using the most sustainable methods possible, including reusing furniture where possible. From the 1,109 pieces of furniture required across the project, Overbury reused 70 per cent (709 items) of existing furniture, working with circular economy partners from the local supply chain to limit the number of items being bought new or sent to landfill. Where furniture could not be reused, Overbury purchased items through its subcontractors to create cradle-to-cradle solutions. The repurposed items also included reupholstered sofas and lounge chairs, plus re-powder coated stools and media units. Also, 1,800m2 of carpet was returned via a local take-back scheme. Using this approach saved 91 kgCO2e of carbon – the equivalent to 42 return flights from Manchester to New York City. Overbury used Carbonica, its in-house carbon reduction calculator, to monitor carbon savings throughout the project and produce a report that was presented to Arup at the end of the project. Both companies also collaborated to create an inclusive and accessible design to promote productivity and well-being throughout the Arup Manchester team, ensuring perspectives of all employees were considered, including neurodiverse colleagues. Some design adjustments included dedicated quiet pods and semi-private focus booths to create a hybrid workspace for all. Finally, Overbury implemented a social value plan for the project, which aligned with Arup’s ESG commitments. Philip Westwood, director at Overbury, said: “We worked closely with Arup throughout this project to create a vibrant new workplace that meets the company’s broader net zero targets and aligns with their ambitious ESG strategy. By expanding into the existing premises at 3 Piccadilly Place using the most sustainable approaches to office design, including a strong focus on reuse, we’ve produced a future-proof office space for many years to come.” Mike Wilton, leader of the Manchester office, said: “Arup is a collective of designers, consultants and experts supporting a wide range of organisations across the globe with sustainable development. Practising what we preach is therefore key, so we are proud to be able to demonstrate state-of-the-art sustainability in our own office spaces. “There are intrinsic benefits to our Manchester offices. Proximity to Manchester Piccadilly rail station means we are in fact the UK Arup office with the lowest commuting carbon emissions. As an employee-owned organisation, we care what our employees want. Three quarters of our staff voted to stay and retrofit the space at 3 Piccadilly when our previous lease came to an end. “We believe that reusing existing assets is part of the future of offices in the city minimising carbon emissions involved in transitions. We are proud to have worked with Overbury to create a space fit for now, but sustainable for the future too. This project is an example of the benefits we find when we collaborate with partners using imagination, technology, and rigour to shape a better world.” Longmead Capital is completing a programme of substantial works to improve the ESG performance at Piccadilly Place through the implementation of a pathway to net zero carbon and delivery of a high-quality amenity hub, which will include 100 bike racks and lockers, as well as shower and changing facilities. Recent refurbishment of the common areas and on-floor office space has been completed, with the scheme now offering both conventional and fully fitted Cat B workspace solutions available from 8,000 sq. ft. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Tate Liverpool today announced Gilbert-Ash as the main contractor for a major reimagining of the landmark gallery on Royal Albert Dock. This £29.75 million redevelopment will transform one of the UK’s most important spaces for modern and contemporary art. Designed by 6a architects, the plans have recently been granted planning permission and listed building consent. This year Gilbert-Ash completed work on the National Portrait Gallery in London and previously worked on the Stirling Prize winning Everyman Theatre in Liverpool. They have also acted as the main contractor for other celebrated cultural capital projects, including Battersea Arts Centre and Bristol Old Vic. Their heritage portfolio includes the refurbishment and restoration of the Grade II-listed City of London Freemen’s School and the refurbishment and extension of the Grade I-listed kitchen and dining building at Jesus College, Cambridge. Emma King, Capital Director, Tate, said: “Gilbert-Ash’s track record of working to the highest standards on both cultural and heritage buildings makes them the perfect contractors to deliver the reimagined Tate Liverpool. We look forward to collaborating with the architects and contractors to deliver this once-in-a-generation renewal, creating an art museum fit for the 21st century.” Raymond Gilroy, Construction Director, Gilbert-Ash, said: “We are delighted to have been selected to deliver this landmark and transformational project at Tate Liverpool. It is another unique project to add to our extensive portfolio in the Cultural, Arts and Heritage sector. Project Director, Rodney Coalter, who recently completed the National Portrait Gallery, London, will head up the team. The team is already in place finalising plans to deal with the many logistical and technical challenges that lie ahead, in advance of a start on site in early 2024. We are looking forward to developing successful and collaborative relationships with both our new client at Tate Liverpool, the wider project consultant team, and to a very successful project delivery.” Tate Liverpool is housed in an iconic 1846 warehouse that was redesigned by Sir James Stirling and Michael Wilford in the late 1980’s as the cornerstone of the reinvention of the Royal Albert Dock. It helped establish Tate as a pioneer for arts-led regeneration in the UK. The upcoming transformation will reimagine the gallery to meet the scale and ambition of today’s most exciting artists and to welcome visitors into a brand new museum environment. The designs include a new public ‘Art Hall’ on the ground floor, opened up to admit daylight and views across the historic dock. New gallery spaces over three floors will showcase the incredible diversity of Tate’s collection and are interspersed with public riverside foyers. Opening up the gallery’s façade will increase its visibility on the waterfront and within the Royal Albert Dock, creating an inviting destination with striking spaces for learning, play and relaxation. Environmental standards and thermal performance will be significantly improved with new services replacing fossil fuel, with renewables and natural ventilation introduced to the building to ensure better energy performance. Planning permission and listed building consent for the project was granted by Liverpool City Council in October and construction will commence early in 2024. Funding for the £29.7 million project has come from the UK Government, including £10m from the Levelling Up Fund, as part of a successful combined £20m bid with National Museums Liverpool, and £6.6m from the DCMS Public Bodies Infrastructure Fund. The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority also awarded funding for the developmental phase of the project via its Strategic Investment Fund. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Zentia, the UK’s market leader in complete ceiling solutions, proudly announces its achievement at the ‘FIS Training Awards’, taking home the accolade for the ‘FIS Member Training Programme’ category, after receiving commendation for its one-of-a-kind installation school. The Zentia Installation School has been recognised as an industry benchmark and forms the cornerstone of Zentia’s dedication to fostering expertise and innovation within the industry. Since its inception in the 90s, the Zentia Installation School has trained over 10,000 individuals in installing ceiling systems safely and securely. The Installation School not only provides insightful training for external contractors, but it also forms a key part of the training programme for every Zentia employee. New starters complete the course to gain a deeper understanding of Zentia’s products and the interiors industry and can book refresher courses throughout their Zentia career as new products and techniques become available. Graham Taylor, Sales & Marketing Director at Zentia celebrated the win, saying: “At Zentia we firmly believe that persistent learning and development is crucial to building a strong foundation for our industry to continue growing and collaborating. We are proud of the knowledge we have been able to share as a result of our Installation School, and even more pleased that it has been recognised by the FIS in their Training Awards.” To find out more about Zentia click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Construction has begun in Antarctica for the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) with specialists arriving at Rothera Research Station to progress several projects to secure the future of polar operations and research. In a first for the Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme (AIMP), some of the construction team along with BAS team members will be working through the Austral or Antarctic winter, known as ‘wintering’. This will see eight construction team members stationed at Rothera for seven months during Antarctica’s winter season from May through to November, in which some periods are spent in 24-hour darkness, with harsh polar weather. The season will see the team take further steps towards completion of Rothera’s science and operations facility – the Discovery Building – as much of the mechanical and electrical installation and internal fit-out is delivered. Across the next six months, teams will also be installing windows, completing flashings and finalising most of the cross-site utility works. During the upcoming season, teams will commence the critical work to resurface Rothera’s runway, which has been in operation for over 30 years. The runway resurfacing work will maintain safe flying operations in and out of Rothera to guarantee field science operations for UK and international scientists, and is expected to be completed by Spring 2024. There are over 100 construction specialists working on the project this season, with around a third of the team returning from previous years. The team consists of civil and structural engineers, as well as mechanical and electrical trades for the internal fit-out of the new building. BAS has commissioned a team of its scientists to conduct a comprehensive pre-construction environmental baselining survey for an infrastructure project. The findings from this survey will become an important part of informing future work in the region as the AIMP team and BAS scientists continue to work together to deliver solutions. The programme forms part of the UK Government’s long-term investment in the Polar Regions, enabling the UK to continue to lead climate, biodiversity and ocean research and innovation in the southernmost continent of the globe. The programme is delivered in partnership with BAM, Ramboll and Sweco. Since 2017, BAS has utilised the expertise and knowledge of the partners, and their extended supply chains, to ensure the success of delivering complex engineering solutions in the world’s harshest environment. Elen Jones, Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme Director at the British Antarctic Survey, said: “Following last season’s success, we’re gearing up for another important construction season for BAS and the Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme. We are continually upgrading and improving our infrastructure at Rothera to make sure that the valuable and vital scientific research and support in this critical region can continue for the next generation. For the first time during the modernisation programme, some members of our team will be wintering at Rothera; experiencing something that very few people in the world can say that they have done. We’re immensely proud of their commitment and are excited to see us approaching the final stages of the Discovery Building as well as progressing key elements of our other projects.” Graham Hopper, Project Director at BAM, said: “The start of the new season brings a whole host of new challenges and an exciting next chapter in the development of Rothera. Planning and preparing for work like this requires a monumental effort from all the partners. We’ve been fortunate to work as a partnership for a number of years now, and the excellent progress we’ve made during that time is a testament to each of the partners. We look forward to another successful season of delivery.” Bruce Wulff, Framework Director at Ramboll, said: “Our team is fortunate to be a partner of AIMP and to have the opportunity to upgrade one of the most exciting workplaces anywhere in the world. There’s a lot of work to be done, which is critical to the site’s continued operation, and we’re delighted to be a part of it once again. We wish the team on site luck for this exciting season ahead!” Stewart Craigie, Technical Director at Sweco, said: “We are looking forward to achieving many more milestones this year as a result of our collaborative approach and partnership to design and construction and the technical skill and knowledge of a committed team, working together to transform polar science through innovative solutions and engineering in one of the most remote parts of the planet.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Exclusive National Portrait Gallery event provides backdrop to book launch Leading construction and fit-out contractor, Gilbert-Ash has launched the second volume of its Landmark Landscapes publication at an exclusive event at the National Portrait Gallery. The beautifully designed book features a bespoke collection of standout buildings Gilbert-Ash has worked on in recent years and features projects including the Everyman Theatre, the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and the Royal College of Music. Having delivered the largest redevelopment of the National Portrait Gallery since it opened in 1896, Gilbert-Ash chose the iconic venue as the perfect backdrop to celebrate the launch of the second volume of Landmark Landscapes. Gilbert-Ash’s special guest at the launch, which took place on Wednesday 22nd November, was renowned artist Colin Davidson. His portraits of Ed Sheeran and Sir Kenneth Branagh currently hang in the Gallery. In conversation with the National Portrait Gallery’s Chief Curator, Dr Alison Smith, Colin spoke about his artistic approaches and the importance of the landmark building in London. Speaking at the launch event, Gilbert-Ash’s Managing Director, Ray Hutchinson said the latest edition highlights exactly what is possible when Gilbert-Ash’s people work together, as one. He said: “Gilbert-Ash has a reputation for taking on landmark projects which require innovation and collaboration to succeed. “The standout projects in this volume demonstrate how we go above and beyond for our clients and work as one with our trusted supply chain to deliver iconic buildings. “They highlight how we excel in working across a number of different sectors and this volume offers a pause for reflection and celebration of the satisfying results our efforts can achieve. “I am already looking forward to the next volume of Landmark Landscapes which will proudly feature our work on the National Portrait Gallery alongside our pipeline of other exciting projects.” To find out more about Gilbert-Ash visit www.gilbert-ash.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Known for their durability, versatility and timeless beauty, quartz worktops offer a range of benefits that make them a top choice for any residential development. While the initial investment may be higher than some alternative materials, the long-term benefits and the value added to any property make quartz worktops a rewarding choice for house building professionals. Roann Limited, based in Wakefield, is a trusted supplier to some of the UK’s leading house builders and developers, including Taylor Wimpey and Barratt Homes. The company collaborates with various worktop providers across Europe to offer a range of products and finishes. As specialists in high-volume projects, Roann Limited has transformed the way house builders acquire worktops, by partnering with them to achieve substantial cost reductions on their development and project expenses. Scott Wharton, Operations Director, tells us more about the benefits of using quartz worktops in residential developments. Durability For house building professionals, durability is non-negotiable when selecting materials for new developments. Quartz worktops, which are engineered using a combination of natural quartz crystal and resin, exhibit remarkable resilience. This quality ensures that they can withstand the rigours of daily use, resisting stains, scratches and chips. Over the years, Caesarstone has grown to become a worldwide leader in kitchen worktops with an impressive range of products. Its quartz surfaces are made with up to 90% quartz minerals to give advantages that surpass those in marble, granite and other natural stones. Caesarstone is one of our most popular brands for good reason. It’s available in virtually any colour or pattern, and is incredibly easy to cut, so it can be customised to fit any shape or size – no matter how complicated! We recently completed a new development project in West London, where we installed 202 units of Caesarstone worktop. The end result is a modern, sleek aesthetic, tailored for contemporary living. Easy maintenance Unlike natural stones, quartz worktops are non-porous. This means that they do not absorb liquid or stains, and are resistant to bacteria or other microorganisms from spills. This makes quartz the obvious choice for busy and active households. Generally speaking, soap and water or a mild detergent are all that’s necessary to keep a quartz worktop sparkling clean. Another bonus of installing a quartz worktop is that there is no need for time-consuming and often expensive sealing that some natural stone worktops require. This allows house builders to complete projects efficiently and within budget, which is always a bonus! Aesthetically pleasing Quartz worktops are available in an extensive range of designs, colours and finishes. As the material is manmade, the design can be tailored to suit any interior. The consistency in colour and pattern across the entire surface will ensure a uniform and cohesive look. With the appearance and feel of natural quartz, Compac is a technological quartz that has high heat resistance and remarkable quality. It’s available in an extensive range of colours, designs, sizes, thickness and ornamentations. It’s ideal for kitchen worktops that are subject to extensive use. Sustainability House builders committed to sustainability may choose to install a quartz worktop as many of these surfaces are produced using recycled materials. This aligns with corporate social responsibility practices and contributes to a reduced carbon footprint. Manufactured with exclusive and innovative HybriQ technology, Silestone is a more sustainable approach to architectural surfaces. The products contain a minimum of 20% recycled materials, such as glass, along with premium natural materials that provide depth of colour and high performance. Since its creation, Silestone has set major trends in the market, transforming the world of kitchen worktops. Silestone is one of our bestsellers, and was selected as the worktop of choice for our biggest project to date earlier this year, a residential development in Finsbury Park, London. Worth over £676,000, the Woodberry Down project is a sustainable development which features over 5,500 new homes. “We’re extremely happy with Roann Limited’s performance. I’m getting good feedback from the site team and have had a look at some of the worktops myself, and they look great,” said James Riley, Senior Site Manager, Berkeley Group PLC. It’s a project dedicated to the natural environment and is focused on creating a sustainable community, an initiative we are keen to support through our own endeavours. We recently replaced all of our kitchen worktop packaging from single use plastic, to fully recyclable packaging, preventing 140kg of single use plastic going to landfill in 2023, through just one average project, and are committed to reducing our carbon footprint even further in the coming years. Silestone was also chosen as the upgraded worktop option by David Wilson Homes, part of the renowned brand Barratt Homes, on its Penning Ridge development based in Sheffield. “We are excited to be working with Roann Limited for our beautiful development, across our division at Barratt DWH Sheffield. The quality of the workmanship and service levels so far have been incredible,” added Simone Roberts, Sales Manager at David Wilson Homes Adding value The long-term benefits of quartz worktops include adding value to a home, as they are designed to stand the test of time. Using this superior material can enhance the marketability and resale value of homes, a crucial selling point for potential house buyers or investors. If budget is an issue, house builders may consider Fugen, which offers a more cost-effective surface than some of the premium brands – without compromising on quality or style. While there is only a limited range of colours and designs available, Fugen worktops boast all the benefits of other quartz worktops, including durability and easy maintenance. Warranty Many producers also provide warranty with their worktops, including Silestone which provides a 25 year warranty. This assurance of quality and longevity can provide peace of mind to house builders and potential house buyers. Whether house builders are renovating an existing property or developing a new one, quartz should be considered as the surface material of choice due to its attractive and superior qualities. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The
Commercial fit out and refurbishment specialist, ICON Projects, with 3 office locations in the UK including London, has recently welcomed Ashley Kemp to its senior leadership team as Operations Director. Ashley brings a wealth of expertise to the business, having worked with Tier-1 fit out contractors over the past 15 years both in the North of England, and in London. Working as part of the wider UK team, Ashley has been brought in at partnership level to help grow the ICON Projects brand across a range of sectors, whilst ensuring the highest level of customer service. ICON Projects offer a range of high-quality services from its offices in London, Cheshire and Birmingham, with emphasis on customer-centric collaboration and industry leading technology. Services include workplace consultancy, design, and fit out across commercial office, retail, higher education, and life sciences sectors. Recent projects include completed projects for Magnet, Wickers, Flokk and LINK group. Speaking of his new role, Ashley had this to say: “When the opportunity arose to join ICON Projects at partner level, I jumped at the chance.” “Our focus will remain on customer service, creating roles for great people, and fulfilment of our long term ESG commitments. This is all made possible by the total freedom we have to embrace technology and drive innovation at every level to create an enjoyable journey for all project stakeholders, including the communities we work in.” “Being part of the ICON Projects team at this stage affords me the exciting opportunity to shape our growth in line with our long-term ESG commitments. This company is about working with good people to leave a positive mark on our world, and that’s a purpose I can really stand behind.” Craig Shenton, Director at ICON, commented: “We are thrilled to welcome Ashley to our growing team as Operations Director. Ashley is our most senior appointment to date and signals our intent to deliver the highest quality customer experience across a range of sectors. Ashley brings a wealth of experience and is entirely aligned with our core values of integrity, care, opportunity and unity.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
