Summer officially begins on June 21 in the Northern Hemisphere, so there’s still some time to prepare your lawn for the hottest days ahead. Ideally, you’d want to start this process in early spring (or whenever soil temperatures rise to about 65 degrees Fahrenheit), but better late than never, right?
The North West office of family run business, Caddick Construction, has been appointed by Schroder Real Estate Investment Trust (“SREIT”) to deliver eleven warehouse units at SREIT’s Stanley Green Trading Estate (“Stanley Green”) in South Manchester. The new units will have a GDV of approximately £22.5 million and will deliver
A planning application has been submitted by Milton Keynes based Planning Consultants, Smith Jenkins, for an exemplar net zero carbon and zero fossil fuel community in Bedfordshire, the largest known of its kind in the UK. The application seeks to create a sustainable new settlement, known as Greenwoods, between Bedford
Advanced wall systems company, Specwall, further enhanced their vision to transform the UK construction industry by achieving A1 fire rated panel status, classified by UKAS registered the Thomas Bell-Wright International Consultants. Specwall is an advanced wall system with inherent insulation, excellent acoustic and fire ratings, in the form of lightweight
CHAS, the supply chain risk management expert, has joined forces with the Supply Chain Sustainability School to introduce the Fairness, Inclusion and Respect (FIR) Growth Assessment. The assessment provides a framework for organisations to assess and embed the principles and business benefits of a fairer, more inclusive and respectful workplace.
Warringtonfire completes innovative smoke control study for Flemish Government (VIPA department), helping to better protect those in residential care Warringtonfire, a world leader in fire testing, inspection and certification services, has completed the second in a series of three studies at the request of the Flemish Government, that focus on
The world’s finest luxury real estate offers residents a quality of life that cannot be found anywhere else. To meet the demands of the most discerning residents, these world famous buildings are adding an increasing number of luxury features to outshine other residences. Infinity pools, state-of-the-art gyms, 24hr concierge, sumptuous
New homeowners are always looking for ways to improve the value of their home. One convenient way is by improving the foundation of your interior design. Indeed, installing the best flooring option determines the aesthetic appeal of your home. With this in mind, we are taking a look the five best
Under guidance from the Architects Registration Board, architectural students are set for a change in curriculum. Karen Trigg of Allegion UK explores this decision and why industry collaboration is central to improving fire safety education and paving the way to a safer future. In an evolving construction industry, the approach
Relentless today announces a Joint Venture (JV) with renowned national property developer Salboy, enabling the final phase of the iconic St Michael’s scheme to be delivered in Manchester city centre. The 40 storey tower, designed by Hodder + Partners, will comprise a five star, world class 191-bed hotel, 181 serviced
Summer officially begins on June 21 in the Northern Hemisphere, so there’s still some time to prepare your lawn for the hottest days ahead. Ideally, you’d want to start this process in early spring (or whenever soil temperatures rise to about 65 degrees Fahrenheit), but better late than never, right? Taking the necessary steps to prepare your lawn for a new season allows the grass to get all of the nutrients it needs to thrive all season long. This is especially important since summer is the hottest season, and it can really dry out your grass. Here are the steps you need to take to prepare your lawn for summer. Preparing Your Lawn for Summer Water Your Lawn Because it’s getting warmer, you’re going to need to water your lawn once every week. Make sure the grass is saturated with about one inch of water, and water either in the morning or in the evening to avoid the ground drying out too quickly. Also, if it rains a lot where you live, you may not need to water your lawn as frequently. Watering your lawn is just one of the steps to maintaining a lush green lawn this summer. Seed/Reseed Your Grass Some areas of your lawn may need to be reseeded, particularly if there are barren patches around your yard. Start by spreading some fertilizer on the bare spots, then go over with the seeds. Just keep in mind that any seeding/reseeding is best done in early spring. Doing so in late spring may not guarantee full grass coverage. Mow Your Lawn This tip is probably a no-brainer since the majority of people mow their lawns. However, it’s important to know the correct way to mow your lawn for each season. For instance, grass shouldn’t be cut any more than one third of the way, and raising the cutting height on your lawn mower helps keep the soil shaded. Also, regularly mowing your lawn throughout the springtime will help make the roots stronger. Fertilize Your Grass Not all lawn grasses are the same, so fertilization before and during summer will look different for everyone. For example, warm-season grasses need a nitrogen-rich fertilizer in early spring and late summer, whereas cool-season grasses will need less nitrogen in early spring and a higher nitrogen content in the early fall. Dethatch Your Lawn The colder months allow for more thatch (dead leaves, grass, weeds, and other debris) to build up on your lawn, so you’ll need to make sure you remove it before mowing, fertilizing, and watering. The reason is because thatch blocks sunlight, water, and other nutrients your grass needs to thrive. All you need is a dethatching rake to remove this debris, but remember to rake in only one direction to avoid damaging the roots. Balance the Acidity of Your Grass Sometimes even fertilizing your grass doesn’t make your lawn lush, and the reason behind this may be that your soil is too acidic. The proper pH level for soil is between 6 and 7, and you can check this with an at-home soil tester. If your soil level is below a 6, you’ll need to purchase lime and a rotary spreader to treat your soil. Aerate Your Lawn Aeration is the process of loosening compacted soil to allow water, sunlight, and other nutrients to penetrate the soil better. You should aerate your lawn right after dethatching for the best results. This can be a tricky task, so contact a professional lawn service that specializes in aeration if you have no idea where to start. Maintaining Your Lawn Through Summer Depending on the type of grass you have, you may need to do more or less lawn maintenance over the summer. Warm-season grasses usually need the most maintenance throughout the summer months, so here’s what you need to do: Set your lawn mower blades about one inch higher and mow more frequently. Continue to water once a week unless it gets really rainy throughout the summer. Fertilize every month or every other month (about every 4-8 weeks). Don’t think that it’s impossible for you to have a lush green lawn for your summer barbecues, picnics, or pool parties— because it is possible! However, if you are experiencing serious problems with your lawn it’s best to have a professional lawn care service check it out and help you determine the cause of the problem and a solution.
The North West office of family run business, Caddick Construction, has been appointed by Schroder Real Estate Investment Trust (“SREIT”) to deliver eleven warehouse units at SREIT’s Stanley Green Trading Estate (“Stanley Green”) in South Manchester. The new units will have a GDV of approximately £22.5 million and will deliver a further 80,000 sq ft of trade counter space on a 3.4 acre development site adjacent to the existing estate. The development will, on completion, be the first Net Zero Carbon in Operation industrial scheme in the North West and will also be delivered to BREAAM Excellent certification with an EPC A+ rating. Stanley Green currently provides 150,000 sq ft of warehouse space and is 100% occupied by a mix of regional and national trade occupiers including Howden Joinery, Screwfix, Toolstation and Apex Self Storage. Occupying a prime location near Cheadle, at the junction of the A34 and A555, Stanley Green benefits from the Ringway Road upgrades, which provide easy access to Manchester City Centre, Manchester airport and the M60. The Caddick Construction team started on site early May 2022, with completion expected in late December 2022. Alongside the new warehouse units, the development will include a new access road, car parking and landscaping. Ian Guildford, construction manager at Caddick Construction, commented “This development will deliver much-needed additional trade counter space. The experienced team is looking forward to starting the project and delivering a highly sustainable expansion at this popular regional industrial hub.” Philip Scott, Fund Manager at Schroders, said “Delivering the next phase of Stanley Green Trading Estate is a key milestone in the business plan and is the latest demonstration of our commitment to sustainable investment. On completion, the Net Zero Carbon scheme will be one of the greenest assets both within the SREIT portfolio as well as the region.” PRC Group is the architect and Gerald Eve is the planning consultant. Building Design and Construction Magazine | The Home of Construction & Property News
A planning application has been submitted by Milton Keynes based Planning Consultants, Smith Jenkins, for an exemplar net zero carbon and zero fossil fuel community in Bedfordshire, the largest known of its kind in the UK. The application seeks to create a sustainable new settlement, known as Greenwoods, between Bedford and Luton, which will benefit from an on-site solar PV park and over 100 hectares of landscaped public open space. The proposals far exceed the requirements of building regulations and planning policies, and will set the standard for other developments in Bedfordshire and beyond. The proposals will establish an important precedent for the new national Future Homes Standard, which seeks to improve upon current regulations to increase the sustainability of new homes in light of the Government’s carbon emissions targets. A range of new homes will be provided, including later living, affordable housing and opportunities for self-build. The proposals have been designed to create a diverse, inclusive, multi-generational community, and have a focus on healthy lifestyles; low cost and energy efficient homes; and adaptable and home working models. The development will include all of the infrastructure necessary to support the new community including schools, health centre, community centres, road network, drainage and utilities. A new innovation and employment hub will provide opportunities for local businesses and entrepreneurs, as well as spaces for flexible working. Designed by national Architectural Practice, GSSArchitecture, who have offices in Milton Keynes, in collaboration with IDP Landscape, based in Coventry, the proposals include extensive public open space, including a new woodland, with outdoor sport and recreation facilities appealing to all ages. Existing trees and hedgerows will be retained and enhanced, with a variety of new habitats to be created, achieving over 23% biodiversity net gain, and forming a well-integrated green infrastructure network and strong landscape-led character for the development. New pedestrian, cycle and bridleway routes, connecting to nearby towns and villages, will enable new and existing communities significantly greater access to green space and the countryside. A strong emphasis on sustainability has been at the heart of the proposals since their inception, and new and emerging sustainable technologies continue to be incorporated, guided by London-based sustainability experts, Integration. The application demonstrates how the development will achieve net zero carbon for regulated operational carbon, i.e. offsetting the emissions associated with the operation of buildings. The application also commits to detailed design offsetting emissions associated with the construction of buildings (embodied carbon) and those generated by appliances (unregulated emissions). An increasing focus on electric vehicles has resulted in the inclusion of an on-site charging station open to the general public, which will contribute to the expanding network of these essential facilities, which are increasingly necessary in light of the Government’s accelerated deadline on the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles. New technology will enable batteries within electric vehicles parked on the site to be used to store renewable energy, enabling the increased use of renewable energy within and beyond the site. The developer, Greenwoods Central Bedfordshire Ltd. has said, “We are delighted to be able to bring forward this unique development in Central Bedfordshire. We have been impressed with the approach that has been taken by the Local Planning Authority to this highly sustainable new community that will set new standards as the country seeks to decarbonise. “We have a positive level of engagement with the Local Planning Authority, and we are hopeful that the Council will recognise the benefits of these proposals, which seek to significantly increase the sustainability of not just construction, but whole communities. We are designing for a future beyond net carbon zero to truly sustainable and healthy lifestyles, where communities have a positive impact on the environment and where good planning and design can also contribute to social cohesion – we know this can be achieved with our Greenwoods proposals. “From conception to the submission of a planning application, we have sought at every stage to make Greenwoods uniquely green, not just in the use of renewable energies, but in our approach to the use of new technologies, open spaces and the planting of over 100,000 new trees, to create a new community where families can truly reflect modern ways of living, working and playing. “Greenwoods proposes significant benefits for the wider area, including new employment and transport linkages. We know that Greenwoods will deliver a new community that Central Bedfordshire can be proud of, and we believe the proposals raise the bar for sustainable development that the Local Planning Authority can demand from every development proposal.” An outline planning application has been submitted to Central Bedfordshire Council, prepared by an experienced consultant team and ensuring careful consideration of an extensive range of technical matters. For more information on this exemplar sustainable development, please visit the dedicated Greenwoods website: https://www.greenwoodscentralbedfordshire-info.co.uk/
Advanced wall systems company, Specwall, further enhanced their vision to transform the UK construction industry by achieving A1 fire rated panel status, classified by UKAS registered the Thomas Bell-Wright International Consultants. Specwall is an advanced wall system with inherent insulation, excellent acoustic and fire ratings, in the form of lightweight solid A1- and A2-rated panels. Its solid construction allows for direct fixings without the need for additional Patressing, and direct applied finishes including tiles and paint. The Panel is simple to install, requires minimal labour with a low skill set, has minimal waste and even has the ability to be adjusted or relocated if required in the future. It is not affected or damaged by water or mould and can be installed before the building is watertight making it suitable for pre-build, Cat A and Cat B installs. Following recent high profile fires to residential properties , Specwall has developed the A1 panel in reaction to the increasing demands of the UK construction market that exceeds the current minimum requirements of UK Building Control. In order to provide safe places for people to live and work, future-proof properties for funders and investors and mitigate the risk of expensive remedial works, Specwall proactively looked to provide an A1 fire rated walling system for the construction industry. Specwall adds speed, efficiency and quality to all sectors of the construction industry, including industrial buildings, commercial buildings, hospitals, schools, prisons and residential developments. Matt Jay, Managing Partner commented: “Our A1 fire rated panel is a game changer for the construction industry, a result of extensive research and development which was undertaken in response to this anticipated market need. The A1-panel has exceeded vigorous testing with confirmations that there is no flammable material in the panel, it cannot contribute to a fire at any stage and is the same weight and strength as standard A2-rated panel.” The A1 rating will further enhance the company’s ability to attract new contracts for the construction material, and its commitment to safety and future proofing will be viewed positively by funders, investors and insurers. For more information, visit Specwalls website https://www.specwall.com/ get in contact or download their CPD – https://www.specwall.com/cpd Building Design and Construction Magazine | The Home of Construction & Property News
CHAS, the supply chain risk management expert, has joined forces with the Supply Chain Sustainability School to introduce the Fairness, Inclusion and Respect (FIR) Growth Assessment. The assessment provides a framework for organisations to assess and embed the principles and business benefits of a fairer, more inclusive and respectful workplace. It has been specifically designed by construction clients, contractors and sub-contractors and is suitable for organisations of any size, large or small. Commenting on the new partnership, CHAS Managing Director Ian McKinnon says: “We are excited to join forces with the Supply Chain Sustainability School to further the construction industry’s progress in becoming more diverse and inclusive and make the sector a better place to work for everyone.” Promoting a culture of fairness, inclusion and respect has multiple benefits. Not only are diverse businesses more profitable, they are also better at attracting and retaining talent, as jobseekers increasingly favour employers that are committed to diversity and equality. Having a diverse workforce can also lead to better workplace performance by generating new ideas and perspectives, and increasing employee engagement. Furthermore, clients and large contractors increasingly expect their supply-chain partners to work with them to implement diversity and inclusion practices and policies. Become accredited Businesses can now become accredited for their commitment to promoting fairness, inclusion and respect via a new CHAS accreditation. The CHAS Fairness, Inclusion and Respect accreditation enables companies to confirm that they are embedding this issue within their organisation in line with industry best practice and guidelines. As well as helping companies demonstrate that they are responsible businesses, this can help them win more work. The assessment involves a mix of online questions and in-person interviews and considers the role of six key factors in effectively embedding a culture of Fairness, Inclusion and Respect, which include; strategy, leadership and governance; recruitment and development; working practices; the site environment, and the supply chain. Commenting on the launch of the accreditation, Ian McKinnon says: “As the industry becomes more attuned to the value of Fairness, Inclusion and Respect, it is a real benefit for businesses to be able to demonstrate that they are taking this issue seriously. “CHAS’s new accreditation provides reassurance that Fairness, Inclusion and Respect is being embedded effectively throughout an organisation in line with current best practice and guidelines. This in turn can help companies grow their reputations and businesses.” To find out more about the CHAS Fairness, Inclusion and Respect accreditation, call CHAS today on 0345 521 9111 or visit www.chas.co.uk Building Design and Construction Magazine | The Home of Construction & Property News
Warringtonfire completes innovative smoke control study for Flemish Government (VIPA department), helping to better protect those in residential care Warringtonfire, a world leader in fire testing, inspection and certification services, has completed the second in a series of three studies at the request of the Flemish Government, that focus on the fire safety in residential care buildings. When asked about the goals of the second study, also called the VIPA2 study, Pieter Poppe – project manager, stated, “We wanted to identify the effectiveness of smoke control measures by means of five large-scale fire tests and additional CFD-simulations (CFD: Computational Fluid Dynamics) as part of the evacuation strategy for non-self-reliant occupants of a residential care building.” The VIPA2 study led to new ways of considering fire safety for more vulnerable members of society, such as citizens who reside within care buildings. Since common areas within these buildings can currently include combustible materials (e.g. kitchens, sofas, etc.), a possible fire hazard is inherent in these evacuation routes. This risk is currently not considered within the concept of the current (Belgian) fire safety regulations. “The VIPA2 study has scientifically demonstrated the effectiveness of different kinds of applications of a smoke control system in a residential care building. This kind of smoke control system is not only limited to residential care buildings, but can also be applied to all types of structures with similar geometry. Such application is not mentioned in any normative document related to Smoke and Heat Exhaust Ventilation systems (SHEV-system) and is therefore very innovative.” This research, completed by Warringtonfire has informed a further third study, the VIPA3 study. Pieter Poppe, Head of the Consultancy Department of the Institute for Fire Safety (ISIB), said: “In the VIPA3 study, an assessment framework has been developed where minimum fire safety measures are determined as part of the evacuation strategy (i.e. immediate evacuation or Defend in Place) in case of non-self-reliant occupants of a residential care building. These fire safety measures can be active (e.g. residential smoke control system, fire screen, automatic extinguishing) or passive safety measures (e.g. fire resistant door, smoke control door, fire resistant damper). The effectiveness of the applied fire safety measures has been demonstrated through large-scale fire tests and additional CFD simulations (CFD: Computational Fluid Dynamics) as described in the VIPA1 and VIPA2 studies.” The three studies will act as crucial stepping stones in creating a safer and more secure future for non-self-reliant individuals, by potentially guiding future regulations. For more about Warringtonfire, please visit: www.warringtonfire.com.
The world’s finest luxury real estate offers residents a quality of life that cannot be found anywhere else. To meet the demands of the most discerning residents, these world famous buildings are adding an increasing number of luxury features to outshine other residences. Infinity pools, state-of-the-art gyms, 24hr concierge, sumptuous spas and rooftop bars are just some of the features that come as standard with these luxury residential developments. Read on to discover the top five world famous buildings. World famous buildings Mareterra, Monaco Located off the world-famous Avenue Princesse Grace, Mareterra Monaco is set to become one of the most sought-after developments in the world. Spanning 6 hectares of reclaimed land from the sea, this luxury real estate features more than 100 apartments, penthouses, townhouses, and exceptional rare waterfront villas. These luxury residences will boast unparalleled sea views, lush grounds, and world-class amenities, including a marina to accommodate up to 15 boats. Residents can also enjoy living close to various restaurants and shops, making this a vibrant destination to call home. In line with Prince Albert II’s plan to ensure the city-state is entirely carbon-neutral by 2050, Mareterra has been thoughtfully designed to be a leading eco-district, offering lush landscaping, rainwater recovery systems, photovoltaic solar energy panels, thermal pumps, and e-bike stations. The Interlace, Singapore The beauty of The Interlace in Singapore must be seen to be believed. This luxury real estate presents a radically new approach to contemporary living in a tropical environment. Thirty-one apartment blocks, each six stories tall, are stacked in a hexagonal structure around eight permeable courtyards. This world-famous building is located on an eight-hectare site in the verdant Southern Ridges and overlooks the many parks and aesthetic views surrounding the property. Extensive residential amenities and facilities are seamlessly blended into the lush vegetation and offer ample opportunity for social interaction, as well as intimate spaces of privacy and quietness. 432 Park Avenue, New York Located at 57th Street and Park Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, 432 Park Avenue is the tallest residential building in New York and the third-tallest residential building globally. Residents of this luxury real estate can enjoy Palladian-proportioned rooms with the highest engineering technology, natural materials and sublime amenities. Residents can benefit from a concierge team, entertainment rooms, a fitness centre, a private pilates room, a 175-foot swimming pool, a spa, and a restaurant serviced by a Michelin-starred chef. This world-famous building boasts an unparalleled penthouse apartment for sale, which will be the second-most expensive real estate sale in New York City. Located on the very top floor of the building – the 96th floor, to be exact – this 8,255-square-foot penthouse boasts six bedrooms and seven bathrooms. With 24 windows, residents of the penthouse apartment can enjoy 360-degree views of New York City, including Central Park. The Aqua Tower, Chicago At 82 stories, reaching 876 feet, the Aqua Tower in Chicago is one of the few luxury real estates to create a community of its size. Designed by Studio Gang, the Aqua Tower was inspired by the striated limestone outcroppings common in the Great Lakes area. Aqua’s exterior is like no other, with soft lines and flowing balconies that invoke the beauty of gentle waves. Strategically sculpting the shape of each floor slab offers comfortable outdoor terraces, where neighbours can casually interact. Residents of this luxury real estate are also treated to sweeping views of Chicago’s skyline, Lake Michigan, the Chicago River and the Millennium Park. The Aqua Tower boasts the gold standard of luxurious amenities to enjoy. With two full floors of indoor and outdoor entertainment and recreational facilities, including two outdoor pools, a hot tub, fitness suites, basketball courts, a spa and a running track, no name just a few. Embassy Gardens, London Located next to the US Embassy and soon to be Dutch Embassy in Nine Elms, London, this world-famous building has been carefully designed by some of the world’s best architects and interior designers, allowing it to become one of the most exclusive addresses on the Southbank. The residents of this luxury real estate are treated to interiors of a world-class standard. Not to mention the finest amenities, including a gym that rivals London’s finest establishments, a 25m pool and Linear Gardens – London’s first new park in decades. Perhaps the pièce de résistance is the world’s first Sky Pool. Suspended between two of the buildings, the 25ft transparent pool allows residents to swim above the streets of London. They can also enjoy the Sky Deck – a rooftop oasis with a private bar. It is without question that these world famous buildings are the epitome of luxury, drawing in affluent residents from across the world.
New homeowners are always looking for ways to improve the value of their home. One convenient way is by improving the foundation of your interior design. Indeed, installing the best flooring option determines the aesthetic appeal of your home. With this in mind, we are taking a look the five best flooring options for new homes based on their durability, style, and affordability – even with GRP Gratings the job will work out much better. Tiles Tiles are available in ceramic and porcelain. They feature a hard solid surface in endless colors and designs. This outer finish does not attract dust, dirt, or other allergens. In turn, tiles work in any room of the house. Opt for the stronger, harder, and more water-resistant porcelain tiles if you need a flooring solution for your outdoor space. Or, use ceramic tiles for your bathroom and kitchen. While wall tiles will look uneven when set on the floor, floor tiles can be installed seamlessly on most walls. When choosing grout colours for tiles, consider the overall aesthetic you want to achieve in thespace. If you want the tiles to stand out and be the focal point, choose one that closely matchesthe color of the tiles for a seamless look and allows the tiles to take center stage. Alternatively,you can pick one that contrasts with the tiles to make them pop. For example, if you have whitetiles, a dark gray or black grout creates a striking contrast and adds unique, visual interest to thespace. Moreover, neutral ones like beige, gray, or light brown are versatile choices that cancomplement a wide range of tile colors and designs. Carpet Flooring Most tiles are affordable, though their hard surfaces can be quite cold. If you live in an area with a cold climate, carpets may be a better option. They will retain heat much better, feel cozy under the feet, while also helping with noise reduction. Since carpets collect dirt, dust, and allergens, they require vacuum cleaning every so often. Here are the most common carpet styles: – Laminate Flooring Laminate flooring has become a hugely popular choice due to its affordability, durability, and the fact that it comes in various styles. Undoubtedly, customers can find whatever laminate flooring style they want within their budgets. Other attributes of laminate flooring include: – Despite its benefits, laminate flooring does not like water. It swells and disintegrates when it comes into contact with a lot of water, and can end up looking like wet cardboard. For this reason, it is best to keep your laminate flooring out of the bathroom or kitchen. And remember to wipe up any spills immediately. Solid Hardwood Flooring Hardwood flooring is warm and inviting. It blends well with any decorating style and it always looks classy. The most common hardwood floors use genuine and engineered hardwood flooring. Genuine hardwood flooring is the real deal, and is made from solid hardwood. It is pricey and requires some time and money for maintenance. Hence, engineered hardwood floors give genuine hardwood flooring a run for its money. This cheaper yet durable alternative comprises a thin layer of wood on top of a composite. It looks elegant when installed and is readily available in most store hardware stores. On the flip side, all hardwood floors are poor at handling wetness. They are not ideal for the bathroom, kitchen, outdoors, or any space exposed to significant humidity and dampness. Choose the wood species that aligns with your aesthetic preferences and fits the traffic level ofthe space where it will be installed. Different species offer distinct characteristics in terms ofhardness, color, grain pattern, and durability.Assess the grade of the hardwood flooring, opting for clear, select, or common grades based onthe level of natural features you prefer. Consider the Janka hardness rating. Oak and maple aresuitable for high-traffic areas, while softer woods like pine may be more prone to denting.Decide between prefinished and unfinished hardwood flooring, with prefinished boards offeringconvenience in installation. Take into account the width and thickness of the planks, choosingbased on the desired style and subfloor conditions. Select an installation method—nail-down,staple-down, or glue-down—that suits the subfloor type, location, and personal preference. Screed Flooring Finally, screed floors are a modern, trendy flooring option that require no maintenance. Indeed, this highly durable option uses concrete, cement, asphalt, and sometimes wood to create an even surface in terms of thickness and feel. The name “screed” is an English word meaning spreading evenly over something else. Screed flooring is suitable for both indoor and outdoor installation. Additionally, you can carpet or lay a laminate floor on screed floors with minimal preparation. Plus, homeowners can seal or stain their screed floors to add color and blend it with the rest of your décor. Your flooring option for a new home should be durable, affordable, and trendy. More so, it should be a functional complement to your lifestyle. And opting for the right tiles, carpets, laminate floors, solid hardwood, and screed flooring can give you a head start in increasing the value of your new home.
Under guidance from the Architects Registration Board, architectural students are set for a change in curriculum. Karen Trigg of Allegion UK explores this decision and why industry collaboration is central to improving fire safety education and paving the way to a safer future. In an evolving construction industry, the approach to building design is ever shifting. Yet, as the complexity of projects intensifies, safety and sustainability remain fundamental areas of focus, and according to architects, have been the most common of issues presented to them over this past five-year period. In response, the Architects Registration Board (ARB) – as the professional regulator responsible for setting the standards for architect registration – in late 2021, posed significant changes to architectural training and educational guidelines. The new guidance, published by the ARB and sanctioned by the reformed Building Safety Bill, is considered a way of modernizing the teachings of architectural schools and will address the key challenges and opportunities facing the sector by introducing revised module guidelines on ‘Fire and Life Safety’ and ‘Sustainability’. Under the new ‘Fire and Life Safety’ guidelines, the expanding architecture curriculum will examine: The science of fire, smoke generation and spread Design principles to minimise the risk of smoke and fire Means of escape in case of fire and the appropriate access to buildings and facilities for emergency services The significance of product specification to fire safety and performance as part of a construction system Protecting building users from hazards during use and maintenance Fire safety is paramount to a building’s success but is a complex subject with a variety of layers, as is defined by these modules. However, following the call for the revised curriculum, both future and present professionals must collectively recognize its importance, and through better education and collaboration, aim to deliver a fire safe infrastructure, with higher levels of quality and building performance. Better by design Between the reformed Building Safety Bill and the Fire Safety Act 2021, fire safety has been a subject of increased scrutiny over the past few years. Evidently, occupant safety must always remain the top priority throughout any construction project, regardless of its size or scope. Fire and life safety design plays an integral role in this, not only as a compliance obligation but as a practice that can improve project output. As a result, and as outlined by the ARB, every architect must be educated on the basics of fire safety and its role in building design, keeping in mind the latest codes, regulations and hardware required for a project. One area to consider under the revised curriculum’s ‘means of escape’ is the required number of fire door exits per room and per floor. Fire doors are often the first line of defense against fire and thus are meticulously tested to British Standards BS 476: Part 22 or BS EN 1634-1 to certify their resistance to fire for a minimum of 30 minutes (FD30) or 60 minutes (FD60). As a project moves through to specification, decision makers must also identify the required door hardware – which are designed to facilitate the compartmentation of smoke and fire and so must comply with UK Construction Products Regulations. Specification is critical when a project’s materials are being considered and can be the difference in a building failing to meet its functional and necessary safety standards. Inadequately specified door furniture can result in blueprints and specifications changing at a later stage of the project to comply with the correct standards, adding preventable time and costs to development. By understanding the role of fire safety from the earliest stage, and in this case, the functional aspects of fire doors and their hardware, professionals can deliver better projects with enhanced safety and performance. Project collaboration The onus to deliver fire safe buildings doesn’t lie solely with architects, however. Although architects are the only professional body that has a statutory obligation to partake in Continuing Professional Development (CPD), industry wide education is crucial if we are to maintain the necessary standards associated with fire safety. Fire safety is an expansive subject that touches many areas of a building’s lifecycle, from the design stage right through to maintenance, and the ARB’s newly formed curriculum serves as a reminder to all professionals on what they must remain educated on. To assist industry education and collaboration, today’s associations, professional bodies and manufacturers are supporting all professionals to ensure there’s a greater understanding towards these key themes. Hardware manufacturers for example, as part of the Building Safety Bill’s Golden Thread of Information regulatory framework, are providing more detailed product information in the form of comprehensive product datasheets, installation guides and training portals. In doing so, manufacturers are offering greater transparency on product performance and testing, improving product discoverability and traceability. Accordingly, it’s imperative for industry professionals to remain informed on hardware options and the role they play in fire safety, as this collaborative approach can lead to better and more consistent design choices that continue to deliver on fire safety post-project delivery. Wellbeing, accessibility and performance will always remain unremitting themes in our built environment. At a time where information is at our fingertips, professionals across the supply chain possess a real opportunity to develop a sustained education on these key themes, and through improved collaboration, can reform the project delivery process in a bid to deliver true fire safety. How Allegion UK can Help Allegion UK has a wealth of resources to help professionals undertake product selection, installation and maintenance checks on fire doors and hardware. For information on product selection and installation, please speak to our experts or head to our download centre for technical fitting instructions. For post-installation support, Allegion’s simple toolkit provides information and tips on detecting potential faulty doors and poor installation, a guide to the EN classification system and a safety checklist. There’s also an option to order a free door gap tester or download Allegion’s general guide to service and maintenance for free. Allegion also offers RIBA approved CPD presentations,
Relentless today announces a Joint Venture (JV) with renowned national property developer Salboy, enabling the final phase of the iconic St Michael’s scheme to be delivered in Manchester city centre. The 40 storey tower, designed by Hodder + Partners, will comprise a five star, world class 191-bed hotel, 181 serviced residences and a multitude of design-led amenity and leisure spaces for residents and guests. With the ambition of setting new standards in design, quality, service and experience, St Michael’s has become one of Manchester’s most anticipated projects. Phase 2 will front onto the new public square, which will become a hub for food, drink, music and entertainment. Incorporating the best in local, national and international cuisines along with a fully refurbished Sir Ralph Abercromby public house, the square at St Michael’s will be the heart of this new City Centre destination. The transformational project will see the reanimation and revitalisation of the underused streets surrounding the scheme and, by completion, is expected to have brought significant investment to the City and created an additional 1,800 jobs. Supporting Relentless and Salboy in the delivery of Phase 2, will be contractor Domis Construction, Salboy’s dedicated construction partner. Domis has developed over 2,500 homes across 10 development sites over the last 5 years. Initial works are expected to start in January 2023, just 12 months after the commencement of Phase 1, the commercial element of the development. The scheme in its entirety is expected to be completed in 2026. Gary Neville of Relentless said: “The Relentless team have been on this project for 15 years and we’ve never diluted our ambition on what has been an incredibly long journey to build this complex and challenging project. Thank you so much to the Salboy Team, to Fred and Simon in particular and for all their support over the last few months. I would also like to thank Manchester City Council and the Reform Synagogue for the faith they’ve shown over the years. It’s now time to deliver. “Our aim with St Michael’s has always been to create a world class destination in our city that celebrates our local passion, spirit and hospitality that delivers to a 5 star international standard.” Simon Ismail, Managing Director of Salboy, said: “Gary and his team have worked incredibly hard to drive the St Michael’s project forward over the last few years and we’re excited to be on board to help them deliver this hugely ambitious and long-awaited scheme. We would like to thank Relentless for giving us an opportunity to be involved in this scheme. St Michael’s is already raising expectations for what Manchester has to offer. Now it’s time for Salboy, Domis and Relentless to work together to make this development a reality and deliver a destination at the sorts of international standards that all of Manchester can be proud of.” Anthony Kilbride, Relentless said: “With the initial phase of the development now well underway it allowed us to focus on finding our delivery partner for the final phase of the project and to complete the masterplan we set out to achieve for St Michael’s. We are delighted to enter into this partnership with the Salboy team, agreements were concluded quickly, with a clear aligned vision & ambition to deliver what we consider to be step change in development for this city. “With our delivery partners our focus is on the execution phase of St Michael’s and the future announcements to make as we progress further.” Danny Savage, Trustee of the Manchester Reform Synagogue said: “The trustees of the synagogue are delighted that their 15 year partnership with Relentless has successfully come to fruition. The development has overcome many challenges over the years and we have found Gary and the Relentless team to be both supportive and enthusiastic throughout that time. With the proceeds of the synagogue sale, the trustees will now be able to source a more suitable base in the city centre that will cater for the needs of our congregation in 2022 and beyond.” Joanne Roney OBE, Chief Executive of Manchester City Council, said: “This is an ambitious development in an area of the city with huge potential. The significant level of investment, working partnership and the high-quality design of this development will bring forward a new standard and mix of uses. The scheme will further help our recovery from the pandemic, while demonstrating our ability to deliver transformational regeneration projects in Manchester.” Building Design and Construction Magazine | The Home of Construction & Property News