Architecture Magazine – August 2019

Britain’s leading magazine for architectural products, technology and trends

ARCHITECTURE AUGUST 2019

M A G A Z I N E

UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT DIRECTOR OF ARCHITECTURE AT MOREYSMITH, MIKE SIRIVIANOS SHARES HIS PRACTICE, EARLY ASPIRATIONS AND LOVE OF ALL THINGS ART DECO

NEW DIMENSION 3D doors bring interiors to life

FutrueHAUS

Welcome to the future of mixer taps. New BLANCO Smart Taps.

Hot

Filter

FONTAS II Range

TAMPERA Hot

The BLANCO FONTAS-S II Filter is the smartest filter tap

Instant, beautifully filtered, 100°C boiling water at the twist

available, its pull-out spout delivers warm and cold flow

of a child-safe lever from an ultra-safe, super-hygienic and

PLUS filtered water via separate pipe and nozzle. This

taste free titanium boiler, delivered through an insulated

spout allows flexible use around the sink, making it easy

spout that doesn’t get hot. With five-stage filtration and a

to fill household appliances like your kettle or coffee

digital Flowmeter as standard, not as optional extras like

machine reservoir with filtered water. A fresh solution that

many competitors, the TAMPERA Hot has simply been

tastes great.

engineered to be better.

blanco.co.uk/fontas

blanco.co.uk/tampera

01923 635 200 [email protected] blanco.co.uk/smarttaps

Senso

Volume

SOLENTA-S Senso

EVOL-S Volume

Control the water with a wave of your hand, or pot, or a

The Smart Tap that delivers the exact amount of water you

pan. The semi-professional kitchen tap just got a promotion

want thanks to the integrated measuring function. Simply

with the SOLENTA-S Senso from BLANCO. A Smart Tap

set your required quantity using the rotary control and get

that is setting new standards with its innovative sensor

precisely that amount of water with the intuitive touch-

technology, start-stop function and dual-jet spray. The

button feature. Follow recipes with ease, create healthy

intelligent motion sensor activates and deactivates the

juice drinks or simply fill the kettle with just the water you

water flow completely touch-free.

need, saving energy along the way!

blanco.co.uk/solenta

blanco.co.uk/evol

ARCHITECTURE M A G A Z I N E

PUBLISHING TEAM Media One Communications Ltd 1 Accent Park, Bakewell Road, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, PE2 6XS Tel: 01733 385300

EDITOR JESSICA BACON [email protected]

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR JADE TILLEY [email protected]

SUB EDITOR & DESIGNER OWEN MOONEY [email protected]

PUBLISHER & CEO R J NISBET [email protected]

COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR VICKY BULLIVANT 01733 385314 [email protected]

SALES MANAGER DAWN TROWSDALE 01733 385319 [email protected]

SALES MANAGER HOLLY DENNIS 01733 385312 [email protected]

CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER CAROLE TODD 01733 385302 [email protected] ADMINISTRATION & SUBSCRIPTIONS +44 (0) 1733 385300 [email protected] Email: [email protected] Web: www.architecturemagazine.co.uk Twitter: twitter.com/Architect_news © 2019 Media One communications ltd 2019 All Rights Reserved No part of this publication may be reproduced in any way without written permission from the publisher. All views and opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. All advertising and paid for entries are strictly subject to our terms and conditions, available online.

AUGUST welcome

U

NESCO recently announced a list of 29 World Heritage Sites, a petite selection for a planet saturated in rich cultural and religious locations. One celebrated corner of the world, Djulfa, the world’s largest collection of carved cross-stones (a reminder of the Armenian Christian communities) was not included on the exclusive list. Was this simply an oversight? Recent social media activity has some people questioning the political leanings of the UNESCO session this year, but the list raises an important question, how do we decide what has architectural value? We’re all biased towards what we’ve built or our own cultural landscape; these sites are ingrained into the very mosaic of our self. Therefore, rather than creating a minute collection of heritage sites to add to a never-ending bucket list, or take inspiration from, surely we should treat the planet in its entirety as a World Heritage Site. To respect the planet’s history, its diversity and most importantly its finite resources that need preservation as a whole, as opposed to favouring one section of the land over another. Thinking outside the box to overcome the limitations of our resources has never been more important, perhaps we should all aspire to Mike Sirivianos' ambition, our architect under the spotlight this month: “It’s not about building big, its about accepting that what you design will outlive you and that you, as an architect, have a responsibility to this generation and future generations to create something responsible.” Mike’s comment echoes the RIBA’s announcement of a climate emergency, the need to build responsibly has become a top priority for the industry.

Jessica Bacon Editor www.mediaone.co.uk

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 5

38

CONTENTS 8

NEWS Including news from around the globe on architectural projects, planning approval and appointments

14 RIBA NEWS Highlights from the recent rounds of RIBA competitions and scholarships 16  QUESTION TIME How can you, as architects, design stadiums that serve communities?

August 2019

21 SPOTLIGHT: AQUARIAN CLADDING 22 INDUSTRY NEWS 23 LEGAL UPDATE 24 CONTRACTS + PROJECTS 25 SPOTLIGHT: VICAIMA

19 LANDSCAPE DESIGN SHOW

28 C  ASE STUDY: PIWAKAWAKA POINT Sumich Chaplin Architects share their breathtaking design of a residence in New Zealand on the banks of Lake Wanaka

20 SHORTLIST: HOME GYM ESSENTIALS

31 ACOUSTICS

6 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

50

28

16

56

42 32 I NTERVIEW: MOREYSMITH The new Director of Architecture at MoreySmith, Mike Sirivianos catches up with Jess Bacon about his practice, early aspirations and his love of all things Art Deco

49 ASK THE EXPERT: QUIET MARK

36 RETAIL DESIGN

54 C  ASE STUDY: SAPPHIRE ICE & LEISURE CENTRE Named in honour of the Queen’s Sapphire Jubilee, the leisure centre is a striking redevelopment of the town’s former ice rink designed by Saunders Boston Architects

38 C  ASE STUDY: XIQU CENTRE Designed by Revery Architecture, Xiqu Centre is a world-class performance venue that embraces the cultural richness of Chinese opera with a contemporary twist. 42 C  ASE STUDY: HARROW ROAD gpad have designed Caseworks, a mixed-use development on Harrow Road in London 45 SPOTLIGHT: BLANCO 46 O  UT OF THIS WORLD Melodie Yashar co-found of SEArch+ outlines the innovative design behind Mars X House, and the secrets and science behind designing architecture for space

50 C  ASE STUDY: MK GALLERY 6a architects have redesigned the MK Gallery in Milton Keynes to double the existing exhibition space

56 SHORTLIST: SKYLIGHTS + WINDOWS 57 PRODUCT GALLERY 59 M  Y INSPIRATION Francesca Pintus, senior Urban Designer at HOK, shares her eclectic range of inspirations: architects, her grandfather’s studio, and her homeland Sardinia 62 L  AST WORD Nick Green, Director of Saunders Boston Architects, celebrates 100 years of the practice

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 7

News

DIARY DATES APRIL 2019 – JANUARY 2020 SBA100 WALKS To commemorate 100 years of the practice, Saunders Boston Architects has decided to undertake ten scenic strolls to their historic and most celebrated designs in and around Cambridge. Each walk visits a different project and they range in ability. Find the next walk at www.saunderboston.co.uk

17-18 SEPTEMBER LANDSCAPE SHOW Battersea Park, London

Architects of Air The Daedalum exhibition at the Royal Albert Docks saw a dazzling, immersive architectural installation created by Alan Parkinson, whose spectacular “cathedrals of air” drew millions of visitors. The Daedalum featured 19 eggshaped domes as a central maze. Passing through the maze the visitors were able to discover two original features: an intricate rainbow-coloured tree and a cavernous dome on whose lofty ceiling is inspired by the Pantheon of Rome. Named after Daedalus, the father of Icarus in Greek Mythology, and the architect of the Labyrinth of Minos, Daedalum’s domes and the arrangement of the translucent elements and pods were

designed to produce vistas and hues of considerable variety and subtlety. John Miu, COO at ABP London, the developer behind Royal Albert Dock, where the installation was held, commented: “We jumped at the opportunity to host both the Daedalum and Cristal Palace closing ceremony here at Royal Albert Dock. We’ve recently completed the first phase of this new destination for Londoners and immersive events such as this are essential to help us grow the community. Being open and welcoming is crucial to our success, being part of the GDIF is a perfect fit for us to get involved with a super festival that celebrates the existing community and allows Londoners from around the city to see the new Royal Albert Dock, so we were very pleased that over the course of the weekend, Daedulum attracted almost 3,000 visitors!” festival.org/Daedalum #ARCHITECTSOFAIR

The trade event dedicated to bringing the landscape industry together by introducing its visitors to the latest product, services and techniques. Register for tickets at www.landscapeshow.co.uk

6-9 OCTOBER DECOREX INTERNATIONAL Olympia London Offering a showcase of the very latest in high-end design, an exceptional speaking programme and highly anticipated curated exhibitions, the annual gathering attracts the leading names in luxury interiors from across the world. 

8-10 OCTOBER UKCW NEC, Birmingham UK Construction Week (UKCW) is the UK’s largest construction event. UKCW is FREE to attend and welcomes 650+ exhibitors, 35,000 visitors, over 300 expert speaker line-up and over 150 hours of CPD content. With a single registration, visitors can enter the co-located sections including: Build, Building Tech, Civils, Energy & HVAC, Surface & Materials.

19 - 20 NOVEMBER SLEEP & EAT Olympia London Over two days, the Sleep & Eat show brings together hospitality leaders with Europe’s foremost designers, consultants, architects, and emerging talent across hotels, restaurants, and bars. The expertly curated exhibition sees leading brands showcase their products and concepts.

MERCY MANHATTAN Ismael Leyva Architects has been selected to expand Mercy College’s spaces on the third, fourth and seventh floors of its current facility in Manhattan. This expanded facility to be named “MercyManhattan,” will accommodate classrooms, a welcome center with student common spaces, an internet café, a 130bed dormitory and a dedicated lobby and entrance to the college building. Ismael Leyva, President, Ismael Leyva Architects said: “The Mercy College expansion will bring innovative facilities and much desired expanded educational offerings to the heart of Midtown. We are excited to be working with the College in helping them to support their educational

8 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

mission by providing 21st Century facilities for students, faculty and staff.” Ismael Leyva, a Manhattan based architect, is known for his iconic residential design and also his work on notable educational projects such as “The 24th Street Residence Dormitory” for the School of Visual Arts and the “North Hall and Library” at Bronx Community College, in collaboration with Robert A.M. Stern Architects. Construction will begin this month on the lobby, third & fourth floors with completion by end of summer. The seventh floor dormitory space will begin construction in November 2019 with completion by July 2020. ilarch.com

News

Designed With Care... Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation for Disabled People (QEF) has marked the ‘topping out’ of its new Care and Rehabilitation Centre in Leatherhead, Surrey. Designed by LOM architecture and design, and built by contractor Buxton, the £15 million centre will provide a specialist care service for people with complex disabilities and neuro-rehabilitation for those with an acquired brain injury. The centre is QEF’s largest ever investment in their facilities and their first new build in the charity’s 85-year history. Set to open in Spring 2020, the 4,000 sq m specialist Care and Rehabilitation Centre will provide 48 ensuite bedrooms for people with a

Milner Square wins Children’s Play award A revamp of a once-neglected Georgian garden square in Barnsbury, Islington, by LDA Design, has been named the overall winner of the Children’s Play category in this year’s Street Design Awards. Milner Square was in dire need of restoration, with aged play equipment that was inaccessible for year-round use, surfacing was uneven and planting sparse. As a result, the gardens had become a magnet for anti-social behaviour. LDA Design worked closely with Islington Council to reinvigorate the space, making it safer and more inviting for local residents. For a relatively compact area, the Square had been heavily sub-divided, with fencing carving out three separate spaces for different play ages. LDA Design’s plan removed this fencing, replacing it with careful zoning and inviting new paths. This move opened up the park, improving accessibility. Greater visibility also reduced the risk of anti-social behaviour. The scheme has increased the available green space, and the diversity and quality of the planting. A greater variety of play is now on offer, appealing to a wider age group. A considered colour pallet references and compliments the Georgian surroundings. www.lda-design.co.uk

wide range of neurological and physical disabilities. The centre also includes a fully accessible physiotherapy gym, therapy rooms and recreation, dining and social spaces, all focused around a communal, landscaped quad. Demand for QEF’s services has grown substantially in recent years. In 2012 the charity supported around 1,000 people and by 2018, this number grew to over 5,000. To continue to deliver the highest standard of care, the charity commissioned LOM to develop a site masterplan to bring together QEF’s expert, multi-disciplinary residential care teams under one roof. lom-architecture.com | qef.org.uk

1000 MUSEUM Developers Louis Birdman, Gilberto Bomeny, Gregg Covin, Todd Glaser and Kevin Venger, today announce that One Thousand Museum Residences by Zaha Hadid Architects has obtained its temporary certificate of occupancy (TCO) indicating the building is now ready for occupancy and closings can commence immediately. “We could not be more proud of bringing Zaha Hadid’s vision to life and her legacy to Miami,” says Birdman, co-developer. “This tower represents the peak of architecture and design, and will completely surpass every expectation of our homeowners.” The 62-story tower has already become an iconic Miami landmark its striking exoskeleton design an identifier for Downtown and the city’s cultural nucleus. Its revolutionary design is recognised as one of the world’s most challenging architectural projects to

date, the complex construction was helmed by Plaza Construction. Residences are available for immediate occupancy, including half-floor plans starting at $5.8 million and full-floor residences to over $24 million. The residential experience and prestige of the tower is amplified by unrivalled amenities, including a private roof-top helipad, indoor-outdoor 1KM wellness centre with gym, yoga facilities, 8 Juice Bar fuelled by Raw Republic, relaxation pods and private rooms for spa services; a Sky Lounge for dining and events with seasonal menus by celebrated Chef Mame Sow, Director of Culinary; an on-premise bank vault; nearby Museum Beach a private Beach Club; access to a house car service; multimedia theatre and more. One Thousand Museum is the first residential project to partner with Forbes Travel Guide to set service standards for the building and train all staff in accordance with its Five-Star ratings system. www.1000museum.com www.zaha-hadid.com

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 9

News

Judges announced for SDA 2020  The prestigious Surface Design Awards has announced its judges for the next awards in 2020. Taking place alongside Surface Design Show, the industry’s leading event for architects and designers, the Surface Design Awards celebrate the best use of surface materials in global architecture and design. The judges have been selected based on their years of experience and vast knowledge of the industry. The panel of eight industry experts will work in two teams selecting a shortlist and winner for each of the nine categories. They then join forces to pick the Supreme Winner, the best of the best. The winners will be announced at a breakfast reception on Thursday 13 February at the Business Design Centre. The 2020 judging panel is: Paul Priestman from PriestmanGoode (Co-Chair), Amin Taha from Groupwork (Co-Chair), Nicola Barton from British Airways, Sean Griffiths from Modern Architect, Charles Holland from Charles Holland Architects, Glenn Johnson (Collins Aerospace), Daniel Mota Veiga (KEF / GP Acoustics), Steve Webb from Webb Yates Engineers. The 2019 Supreme Winner was the stunning Maggie’s Centre St Barts, in London. www.surfacedesignawards.com

ESTEAM Centre Completed Walters & Cohen Architects has completed work on a new ESTEAM Centre at Somerset College, South Africa. The College is a co-educational independent school, located on a beautiful estate in the Winelands of the Western Cape. Somerset College commissioned the practice to undertake a masterplan and develop its concept for a crosscurricular learning space. The masterplan identified the best location for an exciting new ESTEAM Centre that accommodates entrepreneurship, science, technology, engineering, art and maths. A double-height prototyping testing space runs the length of the building, encouraging pupils to test their ideas and think big. Off this main space are rooms for coding and robotics, a makerspace, innovation and solution spaces, a reflection space, a physics lab, art rooms and offices. Glazed doors

allow in light, and create a sense of openness throughout the building, ensuring breath-taking views of the mountains. It also means that pupils can see, be inspired by and celebrate each other’s ideas and the environment that surrounds them. The ESTEAM Centre sits prominently near the entrance of the college, highlighting the school’s pioneering approach to learning and creating new links across the site. Native vines trail up the tension cables on the terrace to ground it in nature and provide shading, while the white walls and dark gable roofs are a contemporary response to the Cape Dutch aesthetic. Its robust materiality and pared-back design respond well to the climate and create an honest building; one that will be used creatively and boldly. www.waltersandcohen.com

SILENCE PLEASE FaulknerBrowns Architects has been appointed by Nottingham City Council in a competitive process to design the internal fit-out of the city’s new Central Library which the Council wants to feature the best children’s library in the country. FaulknerBrowns has an international reputation for innovative library design. Its first library building built in 1963 Jesmond Library in Newcastle upon Tyne is now Grade II listed having influenced a generation of public libraries in the UK. Since then the practice has continued to push the building typology to meet the changing

10 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

needs of society. The practice’s two most recent library buildings, Hebburn Central and The Word, National Centre for the Written Word, both received national awards from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) in 2016 and 2018 respectively. The Word, represents a real paradigm shift in the community library building typology. It is a library for the 21st Century, celebrating the dynamic relationship between people, books, traditional media and interactive technologies, in a truly inspiring environment. www.faulknerbrowns.com

News

NEW MUSIC STUDIO FOR NEW COLLEGE, OXFORD John McAslan + Partners (JMP) has completed The Clore Music Rooms for students of New College, University of Oxford, providing a range of high performance spaces for the practice, study and enjoyment of music, opera and drama. Set within the heart of the city’s Central Conservation Area, a key aim of the new stone-clad building has been to increase the visibility and awareness of the site’s 17th Century ramparts, which were built to defend Oxford during the English Civil War. Organised as a three storey solid stone finished box, the building is linked to the existing Savile House with a glazed entrance and circulation space, providing clarity to both new and existing buildings. To complement the existing

scale of buildings, the height of the stone volume aligns with the eaves level of Savile House, and the partial sinking of the ground floor allows a large double-height rehearsal space to be created without impacting on the overall height of the building. The upper floors accommodate two medium-size studios for the rehearsal of chamber music, and several practice rooms for solo or duo rehearsal. A high-quality palette of materials has been utilised including Portland stone cladding, bronze anodised aluminium metalwork and oak acoustic wall linings, to complement and contribute to the character of the local conservation area. www.mcaslan.co.uk

Great Arthur House John Robertson Architects (JRA) has completed the renovation of Great Arthur House on the Golden Lane Estate in the City of London, one of the most influential British post-war housing estates and an important precursor to the Barbican Estate. Originally completed by Chamberlin, Powell & Bon (CP&B) in 1957, the Grade II-listed building’s deteriorating singleglazed curtain wall system has been replaced with a matching, bespoke double-glazed façade. JRA’s new façade stabilises heat retention, minimises air permeability and maximises the building’s overall energy efficiency, delivering a projected average saving of 31 per cent on residents’ heating bills and reducing CO2 emissions by 13 per cent. To replace the existing cladding, prefabricated panels were installed floor-by-floor from external masterclimbers, with residents in-situ. The rooflevel maintenance gantry was also replaced. JRA undertook extensive consultation with the City of London Planning Department, Historic England and the 20th Century Society to develop a scheme sympathetic to the listed building, whilst meeting housing standards for this building type. The design team engaged closely with the residents of Great Arthur House throughout the design process to minimise the impact of the renovation process. The striking yellow glass bands on the east and west elevations have been carefully replicated, with JRA working closely with manufacturers to produce panels that closely replicate the elegant colour, texture, and lightweight appearance of the original golden yellow ‘muro’ glass. Collaborating closely with engineer Mott MacDonald, JRA designed a solution which utilised a galvanised steel plate with integrated cladding fixings attached to the edges of the floor slabs. www.jra.co.uk

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 11

News

WHO RUN THE WORLD? A team of second year students from Leeds Beckett University has won the grand Engineering for People Design Challenge prize, with its idea for a women’s community hub built of locally sourced natural and affordable materials. The annual competition is organised by Engineers Without Borders UK, a charity dedicated to inspiring the engineering community to serve all people and our planet better than ever before. Over 6,500 first and second year students from universities across the UK and Ireland participated in the competition. This year's brief focused on the communities located in Tamil Nadu in India. Students were challenged to rethink rural life and propose interventions that underpin

New Amsterdam Campus for WPP BDG architecture + design has completed the new Amsterdam campus for WPP as part of its global colocation strategy, which is to provide world-class spaces that bring together its people and agencies into one location, encouraging greater collaboration and giving clients easier access to all of WPP’s talent and expertise. The Amsteldok building brings together 15 WPP agencies, from 11 locations into a single location. The previously vacant Rivierstaete building (as it was formerly known) has been transformed from a large traditional office building into a 19,000m2, innovative and creative workplace to support the 1,500 people that work from it. Located on the river Amstel just south of Amsterdam city centre, at its time of completion (1973) it was the largest office building in Europe. Designed by the Dutch architect Hugh Maaskant, the

building resembles stacked boxes and was originally intended as the heart of a new business district that never transpired and became a residential area. In 2014 the vacant building was purchased and the shell and core refurbished, shortly after in 2016 WPP deemed that it would be ideal for the Amsterdam co-location scheme. BDG then began its plans for the transformation of the interior to create a dynamic workplace to support the current and future aspirations of WPP. The exterior of the building, once dominated by white mosaic tiles, has been largely replaced and now has floor to ceiling windows, which chimes with BDG’s theme of a free flowing workspace, flooded by light and movement within a sparse structural grid. The original concrete structure has been maintained retaining the character of the building. www.bdg-a-d.com

aspirational lifestyles and address the impacts of poor water and sanitation provision, a lack of waste management, limited transport and digital infrastructure and unreliable energy provision. The winners, an all female group of civil engineering students from Leeds Beckett University, wanted to improve the position of women in rural communities by designing a place where they could spend time and learn new skills in a safe environment. The building materials, including bamboo and enforced clay bricks, were easy to source locally and the team tested them in practice during the design phase to ensure their suitability. “It feels incredible to have won the Grand Prize,” said Lydia Williams. “We learnt so much about the importance of sustainable design and engineering, while also developing our skills in key areas such as teamworking, brainstorming and problem solving.” www.ewb-uk.org

TINTAGEL FOOTBRIDGE In collaboration with the renowned civil engineering practice Ney & Partners from Brussels, William Matthews Associates were chosen as one of six shortlisted teams selected from 137 international entries to produce a design for a new footbridge linking the remains of Tintagel Castle in Cornwall. William Matthews Associates' winning proposal is based on a simple concept: to recreate the link that once existed and to fill the current void. Instead of introducing a third element that spans from side to side, they propose two independent cantilevers that reach out

12 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

and touch, almost, in the middle. Visually the link highlights the void through the absence of material in the middle of the crossing. The structure is 4.5m high when it springs from the rock face, with a thickness of 170mm in the centre, and provides a clear joint between the mainland and island halves. The narrow gap between them represents the transition between the mainland and the island, or the present and the past, the known and the unknown, reality and legend; all the things that make Tintagel so special and fascinating. wma.co

News

REDESIGN OF HENRIETTA HOUSE MoreySmith has undertaken a major redesign and redevelopment of Henrietta House, CBRE’s UK headquarters in London, to create a world class workplace experience for staff and visiting clients featuring collaboration space, activity-based working, presentation space and client amenities, on-site wellness facilities, SMART building technology and sustainability solutions. On completion in late 2020, the building will comprise 143,000 sq ft over

10 floors including five floors of state-ofthe-art workspace. Leading design and architectural practice MoreySmith re-designed the entire site which includes a 43,000 sq ft major architectural new-build extension to be constructed on seven of the above-ground floors, over the existing Debenhams loading bay to the rear of the building. The human centred design prioritises employee wellbeing by maximising natural daylight throughout, and includes two on-site wellness studios, a dedicated spin studio, c:300 cycle rack spaces and returning new parent facilities. A new ground-floor entrance and reception area will include additional client amenities and the twostorey retail style façade will improve the street presence on Henrietta Place, Welbeck and Wimpole Street. www.moreysmith.com

BACK TO COLLEGE An ambitious redevelopment and

Bayshore Villas In 2015, AD&V® started the planning and design of Bayshore Villas, which was completed in 2019. Located in Puerta de Tierra near Old San Juan and within walking distance of El Capitolio, Bayshore Villas comprises 12 new low-rise buildings over a three-block, nine-acre area. The project was developed on the site of the former Puerta de Tierra Public Housing Project, where the building proportions were not appropriate for its urban context. The new design implements and restores the original urban design plans developed for the region in 1870. This reconnects the northern and southern sectors of the Puerta de Tierra community for the first time in over half a century. Bayshore Villas creates three blocks defined by new

and existing public streets, which establish a human scale and penetrable pedestrian zones. The property offers 174 units of mixedincome residences, ranging in size from 600 to 1,400 square feet, with the majority of the units dedicated to affordable housing needs. There is also over 5,800 square feet of commercial space, and 6,000 square feet dedicated for community and administrative use. The design of Bayshore Villas harmonises with its surroundings, and contributes to the beautification and aesthetics of the area. The low-rise buildings have been strategically positioned on the perimeter of each block, thereby creating an urban façade. Architecturally, Bayshore Villas reflect the area’s historic past with a nod to the Art Deco style, while allowing contemporary standards to inform and refine the final design. alvarezdiazvillalon.com

refurbishment of a Grade II listed building owned by Grantham College has commenced following a thoughtful redesign by multi-disciplinary design practice, rg+p. Dating back to 1858, Stonebridge House was originally a private residence and its potted history includes use as a school and police offices, before Grantham College purchased the site in 2012. Currently home to the Department of Creative Media but requiring modernisation, Stonebridge House is one of three sites in the college’s overall masterplan, which was devised by rg+p. Its redevelopment will reconfigure existing internal space and reclaim outdoor space to create a modern, functional building that will suit current and future educational requirements. “Over the course of its 161-year history, Stonebridge House has been adapted and extended to suit its occupants, but these alterations have clashed, and the result is a mismatched style and a building which is no longer fit for purpose,” explains rg+p’s architectural director, James Badley. “Our design, which was developed in close consultation with college staff and students, aims to restore the building’s historic aesthetic whist providing contemporary and practical learning facilities.” rg+p’s reimagining of Stonebridge House includes open plan and flexible teaching rooms, breakout spaces, areas for collaborative work and individual study as well as greater interaction between the property and its surrounding environment. www.rg-p.co.uk

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 13

RIBA News

NEWS

RIBA

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is a global professional membership body that serves its members and society in order to deliver better buildings and places, stronger communities and a sustainable environment. Follow @RIBA on Twitter for regular updates

GLOBAL DECLARATION OF A CLIMATE EMERGENCY RIBA trustees formally agreed to join the global declaration of an environment and climate emergency at the triannual meeting of RIBA Council members. At the meeting, the Institute also committed to developing the RIBA Ethics and Sustainable Development Commission’s action plan and a pledge to support the government’s 2050 net zero emissions target. RIBA President, Ben Derbyshire, said: “The climate emergency is the biggest challenge facing our planet and our profession. But to have a significant impact we need to do more than make symbolic statements - we need to turn warm words into impactful actions. The implementation of a five-year action plan we have committed to today will ensure we are able to benchmark change and evaluate the actions that make most impact.” Following RIBA's declaration of a climate emergency, Asif Din, sustainability director at the London office of architects Perkins and Will said: "RIBA's recognition and declaration of a climate emergency is very welcome at such a crucial time for building design and the construction industry within the wider climate change debate. Such a declaration, however, is toothless unless it is swiftly followed by tangible actions. The main challenge facing the sector is the lack of understanding of how the built environment can be decarbonised and most effective way of doing so. And it is the scale of this challenge that is particularly troubling. The built environment is responsible for roughly 40 percent of the UK’s total carbon footprint, with no sign of this being curtailed. In declaring a climate emergency, the RIBA recognise the scale and scope of the challenge. The Ethics and Sustainable Development Action Plan too, endorsed alongside the declaration, will hopefully have an impact on the sector and set out clear guidelines on how we can curb emissions, reverse biodiversity loss and improve air quality through our day to day practice. Action is beginning to take place, slowly but surely.”

National Awards The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has announced the 54 winners of 2019 RIBA National Awards for architecture. The awards, which have been presented since 1966, recognise the UK’s best new construction projects and provide an insight into the UK’s design and economic trends. From a small rammed-stone pavilion on the site where King John signed the Magna Carta (Writ in Water) to the vast redevelopment of one of London’s busiest transport terminals (London Bridge); from significant investment in cultural landmarks (Bristol Old Vic and V&A Dundee) to a new model for communal living (Marmalade Lane) – this year’s award-winning buildings showcase the extraordinary breadth and brilliance of UK architecture today. Key trends illustrated of the winners include: Restoration & regeneration of historic buildings The refurbishment of a listed 1960s bus station in Lancashire (Preston Bus Station); the revival of Battersea Arts Centre in London which had been left derelict after a fire in 2015; the restoration of Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s Art Deco tea rooms in Glasgow (Mackintosh at the Willow); and a new tower at Westminster Abbey, the most significant addition to the building since 1745 (Westminster Abbey Triforium Project). Ambition to create quality cultural destinations An unobtrusive visitors centre nestled in the Yorkshire landscape (The Weston at Yorkshire Sculpture Park); the subtle extension of a house-turned-art gallery in Cambridge (Kettles Yard); a stable block converted theatre in Leicestershire (Nevill Holt Opera); and the transformation of a 19th century fire station into a gallery and community building (South London Gallery Fire Station) are four of the 16 new additions to the UK’s cultural scene. Pockets of exemplary volume housing Highly-sustainable terraced housing at Goldsmith Street for Norwich City Council; the reinvigoration of a listed post-war London housing block, Great Arthur House; and Cambridge’s first co-housing community, a neighbourhood with shared facilities (Marmalade Lane).

14 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

RIBA News

The Painted Hall, London, by Hugh Broughton Architects with Martin Ashley Architects RIBA London Award 2019, RIBA London Conservation Award 2019 and RIBA National Award 2019

North West Cambridge Utility Buildings, Cambridge, by Robin Lee Architecture RIBA East Award 2019 and RIBA National Award 2019

Cork House, Berkshire, by MPH Architects RIBA South Award 2019, RIBA South Sustainability Award 2019 and RIBA National Award 2019

Brentford Lock West Keelson Gardens, London, by Mæ RIBA London Award 2019 and RIBA National Award 2019

V&A Dundee, Scotland, by Kengo Kuma & Associates with PiM.studio Architects and James F Stephen Architects RIAS Award 2019 and RIBA Award for Scotland 2019

Marmalade Lane Cohousing, Cambridge, by Mole Architects RIBA East Award 2019 and RIBA National Award 2019

Battersea Arts Centre, London, by Haworth Tompkins RIBA London Award 2019 and RIBA London Client of the Year Award 2019 and RIBA National Award 2019

The Queens Diamond Jubilee Galleries, London, by MUMA LLP RIBA London Award 2019 and RIBA National Award 2019

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 15

Questiom Time

RAISE YOUR GAME How can stadiums be designed to serve communities?

In April, the new Tottenham Hotspur Stadium hosted it’s first game. Designed by Populous, the stadium heralds a new era for Tottenham Hotspur Football Club, with a capacity of over 62,000 seats and a fully retractable pitch, it is now the biggest club stadium in London. The stadium’s versatile design will enable it to host not only Spurs and NFL games but concerts and a range of other events, fulfilling the club’s ambition to create a major sports and entertainment destination. It isn’t enough for stadiums to simply have enough space to meet the capacity. Stadiums have become civic buildings, that require hospitality facilities, flexible seating, accessible entrances, excellent wayfinding throughout the building, and it seems a gift shop. Benoy acknowledged this shift in its redesign of the Nottingham Forest Stadium, which includes new hospitality facilities, a museum, club shop, and improved access for supporters with disabilities, and more wheelchair spaces within the stadium. Christopher Lee was the Project Director for Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and had the responsibility for design direction and strategic decisions across the project. He worked closely with the Club to develop the brief and respond to their vision to redefine the stadium experience and deliver the finest stadium in the world. What began as a stadium has been redesigned into a multi-purpose entertainment and dining hub, to ensure the stadium was suitable to host a variety of functions, and that it could be in use all year round to support the longevity of the venue and the surrounding community.

The new Tottenham Hotspur Stadium designed by Populous. ©Hufton+Crow

CHRISTOPHER LEE, POPULOUS Pelé is credited with calling a stadium “cathedrals of sport” and whilst I wouldn’t dream of contradicting the great man, I believe that stadiums have evolved. Whilst clearly quasi-religious in the undying faith in football displayed by our amazing football fans, I believe stadiums have taken on a much more civic connotation recently. They are much more akin to a town hall now; a place for our communities to “own”. They are much more democratic. They enhance communities and draw them together. Yes, they’re landmarks, but more and more we’re finding that clubs want them to be, and are making huge efforts to make them accessible to our local communities. We’ve moved away from the ‘bad neighbour’ stereotype of football stadiums in the 80s, with grounds banished to unwanted brownland

16 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

on the peripheries of cities. Now we see that stadiums are once again taking their rightful place right at the heart of communities, alongside busy high streets and amongst people’s homes. It’s a process, and not one that just happens overnight. Stadiums are huge projects, including hundreds if not thousands of stakeholders, and thousands if not millions of local residents. They are built over perhaps three or four years and remain part of the local community for decades after that. Naturally, the economics are important to the clubs to enable them to undertake these huge projects, but pretty much all of our clients take real time and effort to understand their local communities. If these projects don’t find their place in the public’s imagination, as a key part of the public realm, they risk becoming a big white elephant.

Question Time A great example of a new project that, for me, encapsulates the ‘stadium as civic centres’ philosophy is the new Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. As with all of these things, the stadium achieves this through a real mix of things, part design, part location, part science, part magic! The club wanted an iconic piece of design that would help cement Tottenham Hotspur’s position at the top table of world football, but also act as a catalyst for regeneration in an area that has had its problems, including two riots, over the years. The new stadium sits right on the Tottenham High Road, just as the old town halls used to. Rather than running from the riots, the club is investing in the area, with over 3,000 jobs, an academy school for local kids, a gym, new visitor’s attractions and a supermarket. There are also plans for a hotel and, further down the line, new affordable housing and a school delivered in partnership with the council. This sends a really strong message from the club that says: Tottenham is open for business. We’ve recently completed some really exciting research with the AISTS, a research facility linked to the International Olympic Movement in Lausanne, Switzerland, on stadium trends in Europe. Some of the trends that we’re starting to see come out of this research is real evidence of a ‘multiplier effect’ on local communities, with stadiums supporting local business and communities to regenerate where needed and reinforce where possible. Whilst there are gaps, I truly believe that the industry is growing in support around a common goal in this regard. Communities require nurturing. Rather than just being parachuted in, architects can help ensure that stadiums are the true cultural centres of our future. SAM WRIGHT, WILKINSONEYRE There is a long and impressive history of large sporting venues being built at the heart of their communities. Think of the football and rugby stadiums in just about every UK city, Wimbledon as the home of tennis, and there’s cricket too of course. We have recently gained planning permission to replace the Compton and Edrich Stands at Lord’s Cricket Ground in London, to increase seating capacity by around 3,500 and provide a much-needed upgrade of amenities. In recent years we have seen some new stadiums rise up with little consideration for the locals. Designed like a fortress, they can generate a hostile environment at street level. Security is always a major issue, but we believe it is always possible for a stadium to be a good neighbour and a welcoming place. It's interesting that part of our brief was to retain the Lord’s ‘village cricket green’ ethos. Of course, the enjoyment and safety of spectators, along with providing a great work environment for staff are major considerations, but we also believe that a major element of the design needs to respond to the

THE EXPERTS CHRISTOPHER LEE, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF POPULOUS Christopher has worked around the world for major international sports clients and designed over 30 stadiums on five continents, including the main stadiums for the Sydney 2000 and London 2012 Summer Olympics. populous.com

SAM WRIGHT, DIRECTOR OF SPORTS & LEISURE TEAM AT WILKINSONEYRE Sam has delivered award-winning projects such as the Liverpool Arena; the London 2012 Olympic Basketball Arena and more recently, the redevelopment of the Compton and Edrich stands at Lord’s Cricket Ground. wilkinsoneyre.com

local community. Excellent community relations already exist. Lord’s and the Marylebone Cricket Club have a long running community engagement programme and work with the local community and schools. More widely, MCC’s Foundation is making cricket more accessible to pupils from state schools by coaching cricket at hubs around the country. And the ground is host to many annual events for the community that include people of all ages, from young Middlesex fans to attendees of its Silver Sunday events. It is intended that the programme of community outreach work, which has been identified as one of the club’s emerging strategic priorities, will also include links to cricket and community projects already supported by MCC in Sri Lanka and Afghanistan. In terms of design, a careful understanding

of context is key to neighbourliness. Lord’s is in a Conservation Area, close to listed buildings and to a major Royal Park. Both the Mound Stand and the Media Centre are designated Local Landmarks and the Media Centre in particular is significant due to its distinctive design and its location directly opposite the Pavilion and its prominence when approached from the north east entrance. The backdrop of trees in St John’s Wood cemetery and gardens are highly valued components of this setting. Acknowledging the high-quality coverage sport on TV, we know that venues have to work harder than ever to deliver an exciting and authentic experience. And this means going beyond the bars and food offers. The two new stands are for general spectators, and our design is intended to elevate their experience so that they can feel a part of the culture of the place, not just a spectator.

WilkinsonEyre have redesigned two stands at Lord’s Cricket ground.

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 17

Landscape

Tuesday 17 & Wednesday 18 September 2019

THE INDUS T RY TRADE SHO W

THE ONLY TRADE EVENT FOR QUALIFIED GARDEN AND LANDSCAPE DESIGNERS & CONTRACTORS

The trade event dedicated to bringing the landscape industry together by introducing its visitors to the latest products, services and techniques.

LANDSCAPE exhibitors include manufacturers and suppliers of everything from vases, pots and flag stones to furniture and conservatories, water features and sundials. Our exhibitors provide architectural iron work, planters, sheds, turf, sculpture, soil, plants and paving as well as lighting, heating, trees and tools.

Our international visitors include Garden Designers, Landscape Designers & Contractors, Architects, Facilities Managers, Groundsmen & Parks Officers, Event Florists, Creative Directors, Garden Centres, Contract Gardeners, Hotels and Interior Designers.

Register for your free tickets to attend at www.landscapeshow.co.uk

+44 (0)20 7821 8221

landscapeshow.co.uk

@LandscapeEvent #Landscape2019

landscape.show

LANDSCAPE Show

EVOLVING LANDSCAPE LANDSCAPE, the UK’s premier event for the industry, returns to Battersea Park in central London, 17 - 18 September 2019 LANDSCAPE is the networking opportunity of the year, with hundreds of exhibitors and a huge array of industry professionals from all over the UK and beyond, including garden designers, landscape architects and contractors. Between the LANDSCAPE exhibitors there are products and services for every aspect of the design and build process spanning from CAD systems and tools to plants and stone. LANDSCAPE features an endless selection of products that are available to source, including garden buildings & structures, paving & aggregates, pools & spas, furniture & outdoor kitchens and machinery & vehicles. As well as welcoming a whole host of new and returning exhibitors, LANDSCAPE will once again host a two day CPD accredited Seminar programme, featuring a diverse line-up of top industry speakers. The accreditation enhances professional qualifications of practitioners and allows visitors to earn CPD points for each session they attend. The LANDSCAPE Seminar Programme is already bursting the seams with over 60 industry leading professionals speaking this year. Some of the recent additions for 2019 include: Helen Elks-Smith, Matt Keightley, Lucy Hall, Cleve West, Rod Winrow, Philippa O'Brien, Baron Robert Von Susskind, Matthew

Pottage, Jonathan Snow, James Alexander Sinclair, Carolyn Willitts, Emma Mazzullo, Andrew Fisher Tomlin and Kate Gould, just to name a few! With a topic for everyone you won’t want to miss any of the sessions this year. Topics include Battersea Dogs and Cats home experts detailing how to ‘Build Gardens with Pets in Mind’ and Parks for London exploring how public parks have changed and what role landscape architects, designers and managers play in bringing about positive change in an age of austerity. Award-winning landscape architect Robert Myers will be walking us through his recently completed projects, from identifying problems together with a client through to the creation of beautiful landscapes. In his session ‘Beautiful Solutions’ he will explain that good landscape architects are problem-solvers and they are skilled in being able to see beyond the difficulties that clients often have with the gardens or landscapes around their buildings and resolving practical challenges in a creative way. Alongside the exhibition and seminars, LANDSCAPE Show aims to inspire and entertain their visitors with a variety of events. This includes the return of the Pecha Kucha 20x20; an exciting event that derives from the Japanese term ‘chit-chat’. This discussion will be presented in a simple format, where the industry’s most creative and professional

landscape architects will be presenting 20 images for 20 seconds each. The LANDSCAPE Show also boasts an impressive number of partnerships within the industry including the prominent associations and institutions such as, Landscape Institute, Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists and the International Federation of Landscape Architects, amongst many others. LANDCSAPE also works closely with a vast number of media partners, appearing in many of the leading publications. Having such strong alliances allows LANDSCAPE to be at the forefront of cutting-edge discoveries in the industry and puts them in a great standing to be able to bring you the most relevant topics, news and speakers. To register for your free tickets to attend the show, simply visit our registration page at www.landscapeshow.co.uk/register. LANDSCAPE SHOW 17 – 18 September Battersea Park London

MORE INFORMATION CONTACT 020 7821 8221 [email protected] landscapeshow.co.uk T: @LandscapeEvent IG: @Landscape.show #LANDSCAPE2019

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 19

SHORTLIST

HOME GYM EQUIPMENT Curated by Jessica Bacon

1

2 3

4

5

6

1 Rowing Machine NOHrD, £749 www.nohrd.com 2 Yoga Mat Gaiam, £33.49 www.johnlewis.com 3 Fitbit Versa Fitbit, £199.99 www.fitbit.com 4 Wireless Headphones Bose, £299.95 www.bose.co.uk 5 Battle Ropes Onnit, 1.5m £78 www.onnit.com/battle-ropes 6 Treadmill Life Fitness, £1995.00 www.johnlewis.com

20 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

Aquarian Cladding

RAPID RISE

buildings below.” With the only materials approved for external walls for the above buildings above 18m being A1 and A2 class materials such as clay, metal, stone, or glass, Aquarian’s terracotta rainscreen cladding system is becoming more and more popular. Paul added: “Terracotta is proving to be an increasingly popular choice for architects and contractors as a non-combustible cladding solution for buildings above six storeys for a number of reasons."

Aquarian Cladding is looking to replicate rapid rise for the future, according to Managing Director, Paul Richards For Aquarian Cladding, the rise from fledgling company to market leader has been rapid. Paul launched Aquarian in 2007 after acquiring a wealth of experience in the ‘supply link’ of the construction industry. Starting out by counting bricks and timber in the yard as a junior stock-checker at just 16, he soon moved to the company’s head office and got involved with sales support before becoming a Divisional Director. From there he was made Cladding Systems Divisional Operations Director before deciding to go it alone. Paul explained: “Having learnt an awful lot about the industry and the marketplace I had some ideas of my own and backed myself to start Aquarian. I wasn’t happy with the status quo and lack of investment in innovation within the construction industry, particularly in the way buildings were clad with slow, wet trades.” Paul identified an offsite brick panel system produced in Belgium called Gebrik and negotiated an exclusive distribution agreement for the UK. The system’s success has helped drive Aquarian’s growth and, from Paul working from home on his own at the very start, the company now has 10 employees nationally, has increased turnover fourfold over the past four years and has to

date supplied more than 350,000 sq m of brick cladding across nearly 400 projects throughout the UK. Customer focused Quality products, first-class technical support, a customer-focused approach and strong supply chain relationships are the reasons why Aquarian stand out in what is a very competitive market. As an example, Aquarian created a unique Approved Installers Network for its Gebrik Cladding System to ensure the installation of its products is right first time, rather than have to respond to avoidable problems on site. Meeting the challenges The ban of combustible cladding on residential buildings, hospitals and schools in England and Wales above 18m, and the uncertainty of Brexit, proved hugely challenging market conditions last year and despite conditions remaining tough, Aquarian’s 2019 Q1 was up 10 per cent on 2018. For Paul, it’s all about how Aquarian have tackled these headwinds to make sure they are still at the forefront of the industry. “Conditions have been tough. Our challenge as a responsible supplier is to educate the market and demonstrate to our clients that our system remains safe for use for hotels and offices above 18m and all

An eye on the future Aquarian Holdings was created in 2018, “Within Holdings we have our existing cladding systems business and we also see an opportunity to provide façade design and engineering to enhance our offering. We continue to invest in product research and development, which has increased postGrenfell, as we need to have other strings to our bow. “We know what the market needs and there are various solutions on the market that we could adopt but we don’t feel they are right so will continue with our NDA’s. “We believe we are very close to finding a solution that is truly innovative.” Paul concludes: “It’s been a fantastic 12 years for us, and our customers, and we feel we have everything in place to continue to drive forward for the future. It’s a really exciting time at Aquarian Cladding.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT 0808 223 9080 [email protected] www.aquariancladding.co.uk

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 21

Industry News

Schueco Excellence Awards On 27th June 2019 in London’s prestigious Saatchi Gallery, just off the King’s Road, Chelsea, a large audience of building industry professionals gathered to celebrate the winning and commended projects submitted for the 2019 Schueco Excellence Awards for Design and Innovation. Organised by Schueco UK in partnership with Architecture Today, the Excellence Awards, now in their sixth year, were set up to recognise outstanding contemporary architecture in Great Britain and Eire. The Overall Schueco Excellence Award went to the UCL Student Centre, London, by Nicholas Hare Architects, which was also the winner in the Education category. Positioned at the heart of UCL’s Bloomsbury campus, this flagship project provides 1,000 spaces for individual and collaborative study, a student enquiry centre and a café. The judges followed the precedent established in 2018 and decided to give an Overall Commendation Award; this was won by The Ray, Clerkenwell, London, a dynamic new building by AHMM that provides flexible spaces for office, retail and hospitality uses. This project was also voted the winner in the Commercial Building Category. [email protected] | www.schueco.co.uk

SUCCESSFUL INTERZUM Salice enjoyed a very successful Interzum 2019, where they exhibited their range of furniture fittings for kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms. Boasting an impressive new stand, where creatively designed room settings provided the ideal platform for Salice to showcase their industry leading product range. Visitors were able to take their first look at the newly-launched EvoLift opening system. Available in four design options; a single door flap, folding door, parallel opening door or swing opening door, the stylish EvoLift offers two strength types dependent on the door dimensions and weight, a wide range of adjustment, and is compatible with wooden and alu-framed doors and has neatly designed covers in white or titanium finish. As testimony to SALICE’S lead in innovation, EvoLift is a highly adjustable mechanical system, which enables the vast majority of doors to be moved with a single system at one side of the cabinet. 01480 413831 | www.saliceuk.co.uk

Flowcrete Puts on a Flooring Masterclass The University of the West of Scotland’s (UWS) new £110 million Lanarkshire campus has installed floors from Flowcrete UK that convey the open, multifunctional and collaborative ethos of the site. The new Lanarkshire facility, based in the Hamilton International Technology Park, was designed to be at the cutting edge of sustainability while creating a vibrant and contemporary venue for learning, research and innovation. Resin flooring manufacturer, Flowcrete UK, provided the university with colourful, fit for purpose surfaces that reflected the site’s energetic atmosphere.

22 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

A multi-coloured flooring design made from multiple resin coatings was chosen so that students walking through the front door would be greeted with a wide-open space broken up by large blocks of dappled light grey, dark grey, green and blue flooring. To achieve this aesthetic, over 1,000 m2 of the decorative, methyl methacrylate system Flowfast Terrosso was applied. This fast curing flooring solution was used in Signal Grey and Dark Grey to cover the majority of the public-facing areas, particularly in the expansive atrium. www.flowcrete.co.uk

Legal Update

DISPUTE avoidance Jackson Tree, Irwin Mitchell states some of the controls that can be adopted to prevent legal disputes As everyone is all too well aware, we are in uncertain times. The construction industry is no stranger to cash flow management, however, the added pressures associated with an unstable political environment has caused most businesses to assign cash flow as their number one risk. The resulting effect is that consultants are either not being paid on time or at all. All this is fertile ground for disputes. Sometimes disputes cannot be avoided, but there are a number of business controls which can be adopted to help prevent issues growing into full blown disputes. Make sure you enter into a contract that allocates risk appropriately. Whether it is through the use of your own form of contract or negotiating out unfavourable terms, take care to understand and limit the risk you assume. Some of the key issues for which you should look for include: Limitation of liability clauses; Net contribution clauses; Monthly payments as opposed to milestone payments; PI insurance requirements; Fitness for-purpose requirements; Warranties. Read and understand the contract Having a contract in place is the first step to dispute

avoidance, however, there is little point entering it if you don’t comply with its requirements. A key feature of contract drafting is to ensure the terms align with the way you operate. If the contract requires actions that are not part of your usual procedures, there is an increased risk of getting into difficulty.

"Sometimes disputes cannot be avoided, but there are a number of business controls which can be adopted" Comply with the contract The contract should be your bible and not something that should be kept in a drawer until a dispute arises. Contract administration is a key control in dispute mitigation. It is especially important that the contractual processes and timelines for variations are complied with otherwise you may lose the right altogether. Arcadis’ Global Construction Disputes Report 2019 identifies failings in contract administration as the number one cause of disputes in the UK. Communication From our experience, many disputes arise from a

breakdown of communication. Be sure to keep an open line of communication with the client and your sub-consultants and where necessary have the hard conversation before issues descend into a paper war. Keep records Given the nature of the work, it is sometimes difficult to keep accurate records as to the status of an issue. Good record keeping and retention is crucial especially when faced with a potential dispute. Not only will this aid with any arguments as to the facts but it will be of valuable assistance throughout the dispute resolution process. Manage risks early Identifying potential problems at an early stage, and try (where possible) to work with the other parties in an attempt to resolve the issues.

JACKSON TREE Jackson Tree is a construction law specialist at Irwin Mitchell, who has historically assisted developers on large scale construction projects. He has gained invaluable commercial experience during his time as an in-house lawyer and continues to managed various construction-related disputes for his clients.  

Personnel In some cases, disputes occur due to clashes of personnel. It is key that you utilise the most appropriate personnel in your organisation that is suited to deal with the issues or the personalities you are faced with. There are a myriad of issues which need to be considered when trying to avoid disputes. Taking the above steps will go a long way in helping to do so. www.irwinmitchell.com

August June 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 23

Contracts + Projects

Ravago Insulation at heart of Bloomberg It is believed to be the world’s most sustainable office. Every aspect of Bloomberg, London, was conceived with shared values of innovation, sustainability and well-being, according to its architect, Norman Foster + Partners. The monumental 1.1 metre square feet building was designed with a 98.5 per cent BREEAM rating, the highest designstage score ever achieved by any major office development. These include Ravago Building Solutionsí XENERGY™ and FLOORMATE™ thermal insulation. XENERGY™ SLP has an A+ BRE Green Guide Rating and is BBA certified. The high compressive strength of FLOORMATE™ insulation products make them suitable for high load bearing applications. Richard Powell, Roofing Sales Manager, Ravago Building Solutions, says: “Our XPS products allow architects to have greater creative flexibility because they provide exceptional thermal performance at lesser thicknesses. We’re delighted that these properties helped Bloomberg’s headquarters become one of the world’s most sustainable office buildings.” www.ravagobuildingsolutions.co.uk

KEW GARDEN GOES ALL URBAN All Urban is celebrating the launch of brand new Handspring Design Hoops which were installed in the new Children’s Garden at The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. To mark All Urban’s supplier launch, All Urban invited former Mayor Khosa, of the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and Mayoress Khosa to officially open the Hoops. They were also joined by local councillor Campanale and leading London based landscape architects who all came to learn about the ambitious project. Guests took a tour of the new giant children’s garden and learned about how Kew embarked on this ambitious design project. Covering 10,000m, the garden is the size of nearly 40 tennis courts, and has been designed by Kew garden designers around the elements that plants need to grow: earth, air, sun and water. 0114 282 1283 | [email protected] | www.allurban.co.uk

CENTRAL PLAZA CONVERSION USES DENSO PROTECTION The old Central Bank Building in Dame Street, Dublin, is currently being redeveloped and will reopen as the Central Plaza consisting of offices, shops and restaurants. Winn & Coales (Denso) Ltd are supplying corrosion prevention coatings for major structural sections and also an outer wrap prior to fire protection. The building was originally constructed in  the 1970's and the design was based on suspending each floor from two large concrete cores. Each floor level was then constructed at

ground level and hoisted into place and then supported by Macalloy tension bars. DBFL Consulting Engineers in discussion with Winn & Coales decided to remove the existing wrap and apply Denso Tape™ to 2500m of 40mm Macalloy bars, thus providing long term corrosion prevention. Denso Self Adhesive PVC Tape™ was then used as an outer wrap before fire protection and cladding was applied. 020 8670 7511 [email protected]

24 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

Contracts + Projects

Kalwall rockets away Aerospace company Blue Origin’s vast new 70,000 square metre factory in Kennedy Space Centre's Exploration Park in Florida is now manufacturing ‘Glenn’ rockets for launches at Cape Canaveral 10 miles away. In addition, it is expected that the factory's upper-level spaces will be used as launch control for the space vehicles including those recently announced for the new manned missions to the moon. Owned by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, the Blue Origin building features specially-designed Kalwall® translucent cladding which has been used across the top of the building in a clerestory design. Manufactured with a bespoke face sheet to match

the corporate colour scheme, 100’s square metres of Kalwall transmits high quality diffused daylight into the structure whilst also solving the twin requirements of privacy and security. Interestingly, the use of a bespoke coloured face sheet does not affect the quality of light internally. Kalwall offers complete line-of-sight protection, maintaining privacy for building occupants and operations while throwing diffused daylighting deep into the interior space. It also eliminates shadows and glare and the stark contrasts of light and shade making it safer for within. 01233 501 504 www.structura-uk.com/kalwall Photo: Destination Brevard

FAÇADE SAFETY Global safety science leaders UL, recently acquired UK-based Wintech Testing & Certification, one of the UK’s leading independent UKAS Accredited Testing Laboratories and Certification Bodies, specialising in the Building Façade Industry. Due to the increasing demand across the market for systems companies to supply facade products which comply with stringent industry standards, Wintech Testing & Certification by UL offer a customer-focussed solution with the WinMark Scheme for the Performance of Curtain Walling & Rainscreen Cladding. The scheme is designed so Curtain Wall or Rainscreen manufacturers can demonstrate compliance with the requirements laid down by the NHBC Chapter 6.9 & more recently Premier Guarantee Technical Manual 7.7.5, which are becoming increasingly common throughout the industry. The state of the art testing facility, based in Telford, Shropshire, boasts one of the widest ranges of testing services across the façade industry. With the ability to accommodate 13 large-scale test mock-ups, Wintech can afford flexibility with its testing schedule, ensuring your product is tested to the relevant British and International Standards, including CWCT, BS EN 13830 and AAMA 501-15. Gary Sherrard, R&D Engineer at Hydro Building Systems UK Limited says of Wintech “The people and level of service Wintech provide are the reason we’re regular customers. Whether it’s flexible testing dates, or finalising test reports the level of service from start to finish is exactly what Hydro Building Systems UK Limited have come to expect in today’s digital environment.” With prompt project turnaround, the shortest possible lead times, flexible scheduling and the timely issue of reports, Wintech Testing & Certification by UL are the experts you need when it comes to product testing and certification.

01952 586580 | [email protected] www.wintechtesting.com

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 25

Contracts + Projects

Design Freedom Altro EnsembleTM modular flooring system has been fitted in a new 76-seater Mexican restaurant in West Vale, near Halifax, adding an edgy and stylish chic to a village that’s fast becoming a destination for diners and drinkers. Taquito’s Restaurant, Tapas & Tequila Bar is one of a clutch of new, sophisticated dining and drinking venues that have opened in West Vale, and each one has benefited from the vision of up-and-coming interior designer Vanessa Thornton, owner of Vanessa Thornton Interiors. Taquito’s owner, AJ, bought the premises in August 2018 and approached Vanessa to help him create the right interior.

THE SOAK Decorative specialist Armourcoat has provided the finishing touches to The Soak, a new bar and restaurant next to London’s Victoria Station. With interior design devised by a partnership between creative agency CAB and interior design studio MAS, the grade II listed building retains many original features including a carved leaf design which is now incorporated into the bar interior. Armourcoat’s Koncrete polished plaster finish is used to great effect on the bar front with recessed logo. Koncrete is an urban range of polished plaster colours and finishes designed for contemporary projects. The range offers a wealth of design options to achieve a distinctive modern look including distressed effects or recessed ‘shutter’ markings. Outside the building, Armourcoat PPX has been used to repeat the restaurant logo design. PPX is a low maintenance, durable external limestone render system that can create stunning honed and textured stone like finishes for both new build and renovation projects. Glh Design Team says, “The look and feel for The Soak has been designed to encompass the building’s period features and emphasise the incredible space we have available in this unique venue, and the delicate leaf interior design that has been used throughout is reflective of the beautifully carved foliage on the building’s Victorian heritage. The space includes four distinct ‘zones’, which enables guests to flow throughout different areas of the venue seamlessly, from day to night, from breakfast to cocktails. We were delighted to work with Armourcoat on this project, and the use of polished plaster finishes to the entrance wall and bar front adds a modern twist to the design. The team at Armourcoat have enabled us to make an entrance with an impact and the rough textured finish on The Soak logo is such an impressive contrast to the smooth concrete of the finish on the wall.”

www.armourcoat.com Photography: © Franklin & Franklin

26 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

“AJ wanted Taquito’s to be urban, chic, edgy and very true to the Mexican feel, but with a twist. He didn’t want it to look like a chain, there needed to be a very strong identity, a uniqueness and a real ‘wow’ factor. Altro Ensemble modular flooring system is the next generation of luxury vinyl tiles. From colour blocking to geometric patterns, with a range of plank and tile sizes and textures, Altro Ensemble gives design freedom to create luxurious floors for commercial interior spaces. With 57 options to mix and match, the modular flooring system has natural wood and stone designs and bloc colours too. www.altro.co.uk

Vicaima

VICAIMA VERNACULAR. Vicaima brings an added dimension to the William May development, Broncote, with its Dekordor 3D range The village of Bramcote in Nottinghamshire, has been a popular place for home owners with discerning taste since Victorian times, so it’s little wonder that it's now attracting fresh interest for twenty first Century living with the select Baxter Green development by William May. Envisioned by internationally recognised Leonard Design Architects and set in the former gardens of Grade II Listed St. Johns College, Baxter Green introduces outstanding low-density luxury housing surrounded by tranquil countryside. Once complete Baxter

Green will have 40 residential properties varying in sizes from apartments to five-bedroom houses, with ample sized living space and all fitted with Vicaima quality interior doors. Long established and regional house builder William May Developments has used Vicaima’s Dekordor 3D finished doors throughout, alternating within particular house types, between a textured grey face with horizontal decorative grooves and a rich Dark Cedar finish. Dekordor 3D adds a new dimension to interior design, with highly attractive horizontal

grained textured laminates in a range of on-trend and contemporary colour tones. This durable range can be further enhanced, with the addition of glass panel doors, face grooving or even metallic inlays, to create individual statements for apartments or traditional homes. All of the Dekordor 3D collection come in a choice of cores and can be supplied with added performance including fire doors which are compliant with the most rigorous fire door regulations, acoustics and security doors where required as part of a complete door and door frame kit.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT www.vicaima.com

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 27

Piwakawaka Point

28 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

Case Study

Case study

PIWAKAWAKA POINT by Sumich Chaplin Architects Piwakawaka Point is a stunning residence created by Sumich Chaplin Architects situated in New Zealand’s South Island. Designed by Matt Chaplin at Sumich Chaplin Architects in Auckland, this property is nestled into the breathtaking landscape on the shores of Lake Wanaka. An idyllic retreat from city life, Piwakawaka Point boasts 330 acres of treasures from a tennis court, spa pool, private trails, stables, wine cellar and tasting room, sauna, gym and games room. To compliment, rather than detract from the landscape, the architect decided to blend the house into the land by burying a large mass of the building, to ensure that the visual impact of structure was sympathetic of the surroundings. Despite the sensitive zoning and the consideration of the location, the house covers an impressive floorplan of 1300sqm of internal space. The mountainous setting offered inspiration to the movement throughout the home. Upon arrival, a walled stone courtyard begins to break the home away from the vast natural backdrop into an intimate indoor space. With a considerable amount of the property built into the land, the entrance disguises the scale of the home, but upon entering, the scale changes, with a grand entrance way

offering an impressive arrival into the property and the magnitude of the property becomes more apparent from room to room, with the impressive open plan living, dining and kitchen space taking centre stage. Guests are organically drawn through the entrance hall to this room by the panoramic views and natural light that is offered by this impressive space. The connection with the landscape has been maintained throughout the house, with extensive use of floor to ceiling glass to capture the lake and mountain views and the native bush planted around the house.  With a north-facing design, the house is orientated to maximise the natural sunlight and warmth throughout the entire floorplan of the property. Full height glass walls and doors, sheltered courtyards, terraces and landscaped spaces provide connections to the outdoors throughout the property. The architectural form and features of Piwakawaka Point were inspired by traditional rural sheds found historically throughout the area with gable building forms. This classic structure provides an element of simplicity to the grandeur of the home. Large stone walls built into the land compliment this form, with the landscape unifying with the property by running up and over these walls to form green roofs. The bedroom spaces are set behind

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 29

Piwakawaka Point

SUPPLIER TEAM Architect: Matt Chaplin of Sumich Chaplin Architects Landscaping: Gary Boyle Engineers: HFC Group Interior Designer: Elle Grant

these walls to offer privacy and a retreat from the communal areas. Sumich Chaplin Architects also chose building materials that would tie the home into the natural landscape and reflect the prevalent resources in the region, especially stone and wood. Glenorchy schist stone, railway sleepers, wooden feature walls and traditionally plastered walls offer tactile surfaces that make the grand spaces feel homely and liveable. The colour palette of the interior design also draws its inspiration from local nature and the surrounding landscapes, with predominantly neutral hues throughout the property. With the home sitting on approximately 330 acres of land, the landscaping of the property, completed by Gary Boyle, has been crafted to enhance the connection between the indoors and outdoors. Native flora was chosen to define exterior spaces and maintain the natural setting, with thoughtfully landscaped courtyards within the footprint of the home providing a sensation of walking through native land from the comfort of the internal corridors. Originally created as a private second home for an active family, the generous home is now available as a rental for a breathtaking escape.

sumichchaplin.com www.piwakawakavilla.co.nz

30 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

Product Gallery

Heating Innovation For all owners of privately owned residences, the comfort of those who will be living there should be a main priority. Choosing a heating system can be tough, especially as owners will want a solution that is cost-effective, stylish and convenient whilst creating a warm and comfortable environment. Electric heating can allow the proprietor to manage energy usage and cut heating costs substantially. With domestic and commercial properties in mind, heating experts Tansun have recently designed new radiant panels that are discrete and unobtrusive and can blend into any environment. Ideal for housing associations and student accommodation, Tansun’s radiant heating panels provide even heat

distribution to gently warm people and objects before targeting the surrounding air. The panels boast advanced heating technology which is designed to be environmentally friendly and remarkably energy efficient and where energy conversion rates are around 98 per cent, making them the most cost effective option when heating a building with a high volume of residents where spaces will always be unused. It is safe and reliable. Tansun radiant panels are designed with a number of benefits which include providing instant, healthy, comfortable and gentle heat, ensuring safety and reliability, and are silent making them perfect for noise-sensitive environments. 0121 580 6200 [email protected] | www.tansun.com

ESSENCE CERAMICS GROHE has launched its premium Essence Ceramics Collection, an occasion that marks its first ever offering of complete and coordinated bathroom solutions. Pared back to its essentials to deliver a simplistically striking aesthetic perfect for creating a home spa atmosphere, the new GROHE Essence ceramics collection blends soft curves inspired by organic forms with a slim and sculptured profile. This latest range has been created to expose the beauty of ceramics presented in its purest, most simplistic form. The range comprises of three sizes of vanity basins, a selection of toilets and for the very first time, a selection of bath tubs in three different styles: back to wall, built-in and freestanding. All the products within the Essence range benefit from the advanced technologies of GROHE PureGuard, which is fitted as standard, and promotes superior hygiene and a long-lasting surface finish. In addition, there are several new design features that have been developed in order to deliver a truly premium and uninterrupted design aesthetic. Essence’s range of toilets come equipped with their own fair share of advanced technology to ensure hygiene in the bathroom is maintained to the very highest of standards. The toilets also benefit from water-conscious flush systems with the large flush requiring only four litres of water whilst the small flush is even more economical, using just three litres of water. When specifying GROHE Essence or any of Grohe’s ceramic ranges, there is already a tried and tested brassware solutions to match it. Grohe’s R&D team have developed the PerfectMatch philosophy, and spend months rigorously testing various tap and sink pairings to find those that deliver perfectly, in both form and function. www.grohe.com

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 31

Interview Mike Sirivianos

MIKE

SIRIVIANOS The new Director of Architecture at MoreySmith, Mike Sirivianos catches up with Jess Bacon about his practice, early aspirations and his love of all things Art Deco After three years at MoreySmith, Mike Sirivianos was promoted from his role as Associate Director to the Director of Architecture. With over 10 years’ experience, working for renowned global architectural practices, Mike was an ideal fit for the position and it’s not hard to see why. Driven from a young age to build spaces that capture human emotions, Mike’s designs originate from the humble ambition to make a client happy. Of course, the build will also be practical, satisfy the aesthetic eye, but the main focus is to positively impact a person’s wellbeing. Mike is also fascinated by the evolving urban fabric of modern cities and a strong supporter of integrating new designs with past architectural styles to transform existing buildings and places, to shape a better, greener city. Mike’s ethos mirrors the RIBA acclaimed practice; MoreySmith transforms spaces in line with each client’s aspirations, and carries concepts through in every element and detail. The practice is particularly skilled at creating contemporary environments, juxtaposing the grandeur of large spaces with the intimacy of smaller ones. A process that Mike himself lived through, from dreaming up aviation architecture, to focusing on creating responsible, practical architecture for countless generations to experience. What is your earliest memory of design and architecture? Growing up in Cyprus and Greece, I was always surrounded by amazing historic architecture, but when you’re young you don’t appreciate the importance and beauty of the world around you. My first clear memory of architecture was when I visited the Charles de

Gaulle Airport in Paris. I was amazed by its scale and how the light reflected throughout the building. It hit me that through design, architecture and light you can create an experience, and impact human emotions. It was a really vivid memory. I travelled a lot as a child, but it was the first big scale airport I’d been too, I was amazed!

“

It's not about building big, it's accepting that what you design will outlive you"

Where did you study? I received my diploma in Architecture and Engineering from the School of Architecture in Athens, which was a really difficult school to get into. You had to get strong national exam results and there were only seven places available for students from Cyprus. It was a five year course that took a holistic approach

32 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

to architecture, art and design. I worked in Greece for a short period after my course, until I applied for an MSc at Bartlett and moved to London in 2008 and then never left! Do you think the architectural education system has changed in recent years? Massively. The courses have been digitalised over the years, and there is a need to evolve with the advances in the industry and technology, yet many graduates are computer savvy but missing the manual skills of technical drawing by hand. Everything was manual when I was at university. I was not allowed to use a computer to produce drawings, until the fourth year. This was hard laborious work but drawing triggers a different part of the brain. I think that technical drawing really shows how elements of the building come together. The courses don’t prepare you for the business, to work regular hours and work efficiently, they almost teach the opposite, as students can work through the night to meet a deadline. What kind of architect did you aspire to be? It changed over the years. At university I had incredibly talented professors that inspired and made me into the architect I am today. But after my initial experience of architecture,

Interview Interview Michaelis Mike Sirivianos Boyd

I was really interested in aviation architecture and creating big spaces, almost self-sustained micro cities and of course, travelling. During my later years at university the social responsibility of being an architect became more apparent, and this changed my path. I had the realisation that it’s not about building big, it’s accepting that what you design will outlive you and that you, as an architect, have a responsibility to this generation and future generations to create something responsible. I mostly aspired to make the world a happier place through architecture. Who are your design/ architecture inspirations? So many architects both dead and alive inspire me, but a big inspiration is Art Deco; I love everything about it. It always captures my attention, and I think it fits really well with my personality; it’s bright, happy, eclectic... Art Deco captures the best of previous architecture styles and it touched every aspect of design; lighting, art; it went beyond architecture, which I believe is what architecture should do. A building is not just bricks and mortar but everything that makes the experience of the space. It inspired me then and it inspires me now. What does MoreySmith represent as an architecture firm? As a firm we have responsibility of an array of refurbishment and new-build projects and even though the studio has been around for 25 years it feels fresh and young. We work from the inside out, which I love. We’re people focused, and passionate about designing an environment that meets people’s psychological needs as well as practical needs, along with an exceptional aesthetic. The firm consists of about 40 of us, and there’s a strong family spirit within the office, with some of the team having been with the practice since the beginning in 1993. From this family spirit, we’re able to create a strong relationship with our clients, which leads to repeat business as they become part of our extended family. How do you continue to carve your own path in the industry as a studio and an individual? As a practice we don’t follow the conventional industry rules. I think it’s important to continually evolve both as an individual and collective, as long as your ethos and principles stay intact. We want to have happy, satisfied clients, and that is my guide, and the firm’s guide through all our projects. If the client is happy then everything else falls naturally into place. For us, when the building opens and the occupant is allowed inside, it’s all about their reaction and their happiness.

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 33

Interview Mike Sirivianos Where is the majority of your work based? We work worldwide, but we have many projects in London, and we extend into other corners of the planet. With impressive international clients such as Dunhill, Sony, Perenco, Coca Cola, British Land, ASOS, Red Bull, and Primark we have to contextualise our work to the location we’re working in. London still amazes me after 11 years, but it’s good to be able to go global in design and architecture. What has been your biggest design commission to date? It would have to be CBRE’s UK HQ in Marylebone. We’re currently on site and the build should be completed by late 2020. Our redesign transforms the building into a world-class workplace for 1,700 employees, clients, co-workers, set over 10 floors. Henrietta House will expand the HQ to 143,000sq ft with a new build of 43,000 sq ft constructed over the existing Debenhams loading bay to the rear of the building. It’s a unique site and we’re working with the landlord and tenant to create something truly wonderful. In our design, priority was physical and mental wellbeing, by maximising natural light in the new build and in the existing. The extension sits comfortably in the site and adds to the London city scape.

What does the face of architecture look like to you in 10 years’ time? I think technology, BIM and 3D printing will still be very important and help with efficiency in the profession. In design there’s been a shift in the past few years towards a traditional architectural style with a contemporary twist, which is wonderful. It’s what we do at MoreySmith. There are some amazing new builds in London that really add to the skyline, but sometimes it’s nice to look back before you look forward, which is how we approach things as a practice. In rebuilding Henrietta House in materiality and form, we went back to traditional, contextual, industrial style architecture around us, and then added a contemporary twist. It feels good to be part of that change, with the movement away from all glass buildings to something more human. If you hadn’t become an architect what would you be doing? Something equally creative. My second love is fashion, so perhaps something relating to designing clothes. Apparently when I was younger I used to sketch a lot, sketch objects, buildings, and clothes!

www.moreysmith.com

34 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

Interview Mike Sirivianos

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 35

Retail Design

Hillsborough Castle and Gardens Kinnersley Kent Design has completed a new visitor centre, retail spaces, restaurant and café at historic Hillsborough Castle and Gardens. A key feature throughout is a beautifully designed floor, which transitions from grey ceramic tiles laid in a pattern in the gathering zone. The flooring finally then transitions into a herringbone wooden floor in the Retail space. The Welcome area transitions into the retail space, which features a timber vaulted ceiling reminiscent of a traditional outbuilding, an appropriate touch, given the Visitor Centre's role as

an ancillary space to the historic mansion. Kinnersley Kent Design created flexible wall and mid-floor retail systems. Combining different fixture sizes, heights and materials, they can all be moved as required to house various collections, from candles and throws to seasonal items and children’s toys. Display tables made of light timber with elegant wooden or metal legs create a tasteful domestic feel along with accents of bone-china blue & inlays of a grey Broughton Moore stone from Burlington. www.kkd.co.uk Photography by Tom Bird

SHANGHAI MIXED-USE DESTINATION Lead8 has unveiled its design for the high-profile Shanghai ITC mixed-use destination. The firm is delivering the retail architecture, retail planning, hotel, signage and wayfinding, and pedestrian bridge design for the 700,000 sqm development in Shanghai’s well-known Xujiahui district. Currently one of the largest sites under development in Shanghai’s city centre, the project will include grade-A offices, a premium retail mall and a luxury hotel. A project in its own right, the network of footbridges connect the development to major commercial buildings and heritage sites nearby. The strategy will deliver a calm elevated plane purely for pedestrians to navigate the Shanghai ITC destination as well as the surrounding commercial, cultural and public attractions. The exciting mixed-use development is being constructed in phases with completion expected by late 2023. www.lead-8.com

A SPECIAL FACADE FOR A SPECIAL STORE The premises of the Østjysk Våbenhandel in Denmark can be clearly seen from a major motorway. For customers, as well as those driving past, the unusual facade of this building catches the eye and is a landmark for the area. RMIG have manufactured and supplied 400 metre squared of perforated sheets that make up the facade, and with RMIG ImagePerf, a giant motif of a pheasant in flight decorates the building. The large open area of the perforated sheets provides good visibility of the outside surroundings for those using the building during the day, and at night the lights in the store’s foyer shine through the perforation, accentuating the stunning image. [email protected] www.city-emotion.com

36 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

Retail Design

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE FLOORING! Flooring is a major element in most contracts and, with more products to choose from these days, obtaining the right installer is vital to a project’s success. Flooring is diverse and technically demanding: each product type has its own challenges and options in terms of installation specification. A quality contractor will know the correct adhesive for the flooring product, or the right primer for the subfloor and so will help maximize your investment and minimise flooring failures. Architects, specifiers and main contractors require high quality of service, installation and support and as a result, many public and private organisations and an increasing number of local authorities, now specify that Contract Flooring Association members must be used. All members have passed the CFA membership vetting process and are established quality companies offering high standards of installation. The Contract Flooring Association (CFA) is a leading trade association representing the contract flooring industry. The CFA promotes the highest standards of professionalism, safety and training throughout the flooring supply chain, whilst at the same time providing essential services and expert information to ensure the quality and productivity of members’ businesses. Through the CFA members all have access to upto-date technical, environmental and quality Standards and all adhere to our Codes of Conduct. The CFA Guide to Contract Flooring is a reference document available in printed and digital format that covers the installation of the most commonly used flooring materials in one volume. 0115 941 1126 | [email protected] | www.cfa.org.uk Image courtesy of F Ball & Co Ltd

Specify CFA members Specifying a CFA member for your next flooring project could mean the difference between success — or a flooring failure. Most of the UK’s largest and best known Manufacturers, Distributors, Contractors and Consultants are CFA members — and for good reason. • CFA members promote high standards, knowledge and expertise • Specifying CFA members will maximize your investment and minimize costly flooring failures • All members have to pass a vetting process

Tel: 0115 941 1126

www.cfa.org.uk Email: [email protected] August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 37

Xiqu Centre

Case study

XIQU CENTRE by Revery Architecture Designed by Revery Architecture, Xiqu Centre is a world-class performance venue that embraces the cultural richness of Chinese opera within a magnificent contemporary twist. Xiqu Centre opened early this year as the first performing arts centre in Hong Kong’s new West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD) dedicated to performing the rich heritage of xiqu. Conceived as a cultural sanctuary, blending theatre, art and public space for celebration and contemplation, Xiqu Centre is a joint venture between Revery Architecture Inc. and Ronald Lu & Partners Ltd. The Xiqu Centre embraces the cultural richness of East and West by creating a contemporary expression that allows this most ancient art form of Chinese cultural heritage to continue its trajectory as it evolves with contemporary technology. With its brilliant façade and reinterpretation of the customary Chinese Moon Gate motif, Xiqu Centre creates a captivating landmark entrance as the gateway to WKCD, the city’s new precinct for arts and culture. This iconic performing arts venue is dedicated to promoting the rich cultural heritage of Xiqu (the primary genre of indigenous Chinese theatre) and is to be featured on the new Hong Kong $100 banknote, emphasising its

social and cultural significance to the ‘Hong Kong Spirit’. Xiqu Centre houses a breathtaking 1,000-seat Grand Theatre uniquely situated at the top of the building and flanked by two outdoor sky gardens offering outstanding vistas of Victoria Harbour and the city beyond. The innovative design decision to suspend the main theatre, the heart of Xiqu Centre, 90 feet above the ground strategically isolates the auditorium from the vibration and high ambient noise levels of the building’s surrounding urban context and extensive city infrastructure. Elevating the theatre also creates space for the multi-level atrium and naturally ventilated plaza comprising rehearsal spaces, a Tea House Theatre of 200 seats for more intimate performances, as well as education and administrative spaces, lecture rooms and retail areas overlooking the central inner courtyard. “Qi” or flow is expressed throughout the complex with curvilinear paths and forms designed around a vast circular atrium. Xiqu’s dramatic glowing curvilinear façade, which reimagines theatre drapes and the swaying folds of the performers’ magnificent costumes, comprises a modular system of scaled fins CNC-cut from untreated aliminumuim, selected for both its alluring aesthetic and enhanced performance.

38 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

Case Study

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 39

Xiqu Centre

SUPPLIER TEAM Client: West Kowloon Cultural District Authority (WKCDA), Hong Kong Architectural Design: Revery Architecture Inc. in joint venture with Ronald Lu & Partners Ltd. Theatre consultant: Fisher Dachs and Associates Façade consultant: Front Inc. Acoustics advisor: Sound Space Vision (SSV) Contractor: Hip Hing Construction Co. LTD. Interior architect: Revery Architecture Inc. Landscape architect: SWA Group Signage: 2x4 Lighting Design: Horton Lees Brogden Lighting Design Incorporated Structure MEP: Arup Seating: Ducharme Ceramic Tile: Stile LED light fixtures: Traxon Speakers: Meyon Acoustic drapes: Kvadrat Hardware: Dorma Lifts and Escalators: Otis LED Light fixtures: Phillips Plaza Metal Works: Metal Condos Motorised Orchestra link lift: Serapid Theatre rigging: SBS Fitout: Sundarte

40 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

The original façade design was based on copper, which proved to be too expensive. This propelled the search for ways to use a more common material like aluminium and a means to bring out its natural qualities.  The fins for Xiqu Centre’s façade were manufactured in Dongguan, China. They are made from marine-grade aluminum alloy, free of paints or coating, selected for its incredible anti-corrosion properties even under the relatively harsh environment of Hong Kong’s salty, particulate-dense, humid air. The material was an exact fit for a façade articulation concept meant to be a balance of rugged elegance.  The façade’s woven metal panels are gently pulled back at all four corner entrances to the building, radiating light to the exterior while revealing the vibrant flow of visitors in and out of the interior courtyard. Opening up into a mesmerising circular atrium, this spectacular naturally-ventilated courtyard plaza invites the public to enjoy the exhibitions, browse shops, listen to music or watch Xiqu demonstrations, making this most traditional Chinese art form accessible to new audiences and future generations. Xiqu Centre’s glowing façade reminiscent of a lantern shimmering behind a beaded stage curtain, just as it might have in days gone by comprises a modular system of scaled fins CNC-cut from uncoated marinegrade aluminum extrusions and arrayed in alternating patterns along the building. The façade’s woven metal panels are gently pulled back like curtains at all four corners of the building, radiating light to the exterior and enticing a vibrant free-flow of visitors in and out of the interior courtyard to enjoy exhibitions, stalls, demonstrations and workshops dedicated to promoting Xiqu’s rich heritage. To ensure a cost-effective design, fabrication and installation, Revery employed a parametric digital model process that enabled 100 per cent of the façade material to be utilised.

reveryarchitecture.com www.rlphk.com

Acoustics

LSE LIBRARY As part of a refurbishment at the London School of Economics, Resonics installed an acoustic solution to the University’s main library. The acoustic work carried out was concentrated to the library’s bottom floor amongst the collaborative and group study spaces. To reduce noise transfer between spaces, as well the reduction of overall noise levels, Resonics installed a combination of acoustic wall panels and acoustic dividers. The wall panelling provided appropriate reduction in overall noise in the library, creating a space conducive to productive learning, while the acoustic dividers from Autex provided suitable reduction in noise transfer between study areas and circulation areas.. www.resonics.co.uk

West Meets East Sound Space Vision’s extensive experience in Western opera and classical music combined with our enthusiasm for Asian art forms was crucial to the development of the acoustics and audio systems for the multi-level, multi-functional Xiqu Centre dedicated to the preservation and development of xiqu (Chinese Opera). In addition to the differences from Western opera in vocal technique, instrumentation and orchestration, over the past 50 years xiqu has become more amplified to adapt to the poor acoustics of existing venues. The client

brief embraced contemporary technologies and fusion of art forms. The Xiqu Centre design integrates natural acoustics and audio design in order to balance the loud instruments and softer voices, and to give both amplified and unamplified performers supportive, but clear, room acoustics. This gives a window into a level of audio and acoustical quality that is new to Chinese Opera, and looks towards future artistic development. www.soundspacevison.com

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 41

Harrow Road

42 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

Case Study

Case study

HARROW ROAD by gpad Caseworks, a new mixed-use development in North London is a collaboration between award-winning architect and interior design practice gpad london and property developer Artform (previously HCD). Containing nine light and airy apartments and a ground-floor commercial space, Caseworks is a mixed-use development on Harrow Road in Kensal Green, London. The comfortable warehouse style flats combine the chic and the contemporary. The one, two and threebedroom flats evoke pared-back sophistication with a touch of elegance. The site previously housed the make-up powder compact manufacturer KIGU, to which the new building’s name is a nod. Originally the factory was used to produce vital munitions during World War 2, and KIGU resumed the production of powder compacts after the end of the war. The existing building was used only for temporary accommodation; despite being characterful, it had fallen into disrepair and was mostly vacant. The site’s history inspired the industrial-style aesthetic concept, which the architects developed.

Underpinning gpad and Artform’s design rationale was a desire to improve the streetscape and maximise the potential of the site. While creating a building that is visually arresting, the new development had to reflect, but not exactly replicate, the existing building’s look. It was also key that it would be built for the long term, to stand the test of time. Rather than bringing something entirely new into an already hybrid area, the collaborators created a smart-looking structure that gives the illusion it has existed on the site for a long time. A material palette was chosen to echo the factory. Caseworks has an urban, sleek aesthetic. The pièce de résistance, a three-storey high zinc-clad curtain wall sits above the main residential entrance on the front elevation. An oversized Crittal-style window, embedded into this, sets the tone for the fenestration concept. Notably, these windows are floor-to-ceiling and on all four elevations. Allowing for views of the surrounding area, these are framed with attractive exposed steel lintels. The motif of zinc cladding repeats on the top floor, which gives the impression of being

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 43

Harrow Road

SUPPLIER TEAM an extension and adding to the sense that the building has a rich history. The exterior structure is brickwork, with an intricately detailed hit-and-miss pattern on the top floor. Building on the nostalgic theme, further evidence of the site’s past is displayed throughout the interior. Old photographs in black and white reveal scenes from the makeup compact factory. These are dotted around the communal areas of the residential part of the building. Jonathan Ellis of Artform said: “We wanted to showcase the site’s manufacturing heritage. I think pictures like this are a nice added extra and not something many developers do, it emphasises that we care about our projects.” Building on the site was not without its challenges. Although not a conservation area, the site is 75 per cent in the London borough of Brent and 25 per cent in Hammersmith & Fulham. Making a planning application to the dominant borough is the standard planning route, with the expectation the other will follow suit. In this case, there was a delay in the latter’s determination of planning. Although it eventually won on appeal, it caused around a 12-month delay. Jeremy Wiggins, gpad’s technical director, comments: “The site had access issues, so even after planning was granted, it was not an easy project. The mixture of buildings located in Kensal Green is diverse, and we

Client: Hamilton Court Developments Architect: gpad london ltd Designer: Scenesmith Property Agent: Oakhill Residential & Dexters Project Manager: Artform PM Ltd Planning consultant: Kieran Rafferty Structural engineer: CS Consulting Ltd Quantity Surveyor: Artform Pm Ltd Main contractor: Artform Construction Ltd

Oakhill Residential

wanted Caseworks to be a sophisticated addition to this. Regeneration is key to building sustainably, so it’s rewarding to successfully breathe new life into an industrial complex that is virtually abandoned. Caseworks answers a demand for elegant, liveable spaces, but was also an opportunity for us to create something with a highly original look that is really in the spirit of the site.”

www.gpadlondonltd.com

44 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

Blanco

ENGINEERED TO BE BETTER Blanco presents the new Tampera Hot tap, 100°C filtered water for the ultimate in hygiene, purification and performance

The TAMPERA Hot boasts a five-stage water filter, taste-free titanium boiler and child-safe design, as standard. There are no optional extras involved in Blanco’s brand new boiling water tap, just one extremely competitive price for a feature packed 3 in 1 hot tap that comes with absolutely everything you and your clients need. So why choose the TAMPERA Hot? It really is quite simple, instant, beautifully filtered, 100°C boiling water at the twist of a child-safe lever from an ultra-safe, super-hygienic and taste-free titanium boiler, delivering an aerated, concentrated flow to prevent spitting, through an insulated spout that doesn’t get hot. A high-pressure titanium boiler, not copper or stainless steel tanks like many competitors, makes the TAMPERA Hot system more hygienic and ensures the water is taste-free, ideal for the perfect cup of tea. It’s

also strong, really strong. Top-grade titanium is corrosion resistant and able to withstand the high pressures of a constant 105°C internal temperature. The quality of water going into the tank is maintained by a BWT five-stage filter system that is fitted as standard, not an expensive optional extra. This purification process improves water quality while maintaining and protecting the performance of the whole system, adding another level of peace of mind for you and your customers. The filter removes particles, heavy metals, and impurities that affect the taste of the water while reducing limescale, balancing the mineral content, PH levels and softening the water before it enters the boiler. The system includes a fool proof digital Flowmeter, again, as standard, a simple digital interface that displays the filter usage and audibly alerts you when it is time to change the cartridge, ensuring that the whole system is functioning perfectly.

Blanco has taken time and lavished expertise on perfecting the TAMPERA Hot, bringing you a 3 in 1 hot tap that offers market leading specifications as standard, without lots of optional extras and with none of the worry after installation. The TAMPERA Hot comes with a two-year guarantee, once registered, and Blanco offer a service, installation and aftersales team with national coverage for absolute reassurance. As you would expect from Blanco, it’s been engineered to be better. The TAMPERA Hot is already great value for money, it is also available as part of Blanco's sink and and tap pack deals, making one of the most feature-packed, high-spec 3 in 1 boiling water taps even more accessible.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT 01923 635 200 | [email protected] blanco.co.uk/tampera

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 45

Industry Article

ONE GIANT LEAP FOR MANKIND Melodie Yashar co-found of SEArch+ outlines the innovative design behind Mars X House, and the secrets and science behind taking architecture literally out of this world

46 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

SEArch+ Mars X House

The female-led, New York based research and space design practice, SEArch+ invented the winning project for the NASA Phase 3 Centennial Challenge for a 3D-Printed Habitat on Mars. Mars X House is an evidence-based project habitation designed for space exploration on the Moon or Mars, for four humans to live safely on the planet for the duration of one Earth year. SEArch+ LLC (Space Exploration Architecture) are specialists in this field, with a decade-long association with NASA Johnson Space Center Human Habitability Division and Langley Research Center. The practice’s mission is to conceive, investigate, and develop innovative 'human-centered' designs enabling human beings not only to live, but to thrive in environments beyond Earth. Their innovation has not gone unnoticed; the practice has also won first place in NASA’s Phase I Design Competition for a 3D-Printed Habitat with its proposal, Mars Ice House, a collaboration with Clouds AO. SEArch+ also partnered with Apis Cor and won first place in Construction Levels 1 and 2 of NASA’s Phase 3 3D-Printed Habitat Competition. At the forefront of these imaginative designs is co-founder Melodie Yashar, whose extensive experience has led her to both design extraterrestrial habitats and teach design workshops in Space Architecture Columbia University and the Pratt Institute, where she taught NASA’s X-Hab Academic Innovation studio for a Mars transit habitat. Here Melodie shares the design considerations behind the revolutionary concept for Mars X House. Tell us about MARS X HOUSE and the NASA competition requirements.  Mars X House is the first prize winner in design for the Phase 3 Centennial Challenge for a 3D-Printed Habitat on Mars. SEArch+ was the first prize winner of the Phase 1 Challenge for the proposal Mars Ice House, and since that phase the competition requirements and scope have changed considerably. The general principle is that teams are asked to design a habitat for four astronauts on a surface mission to Mars for one Earth year. The Phase 3 competition was divided into “Virtual Design” submissions and “Construction” level submissions. The design submissions are intended to introduce a concept of operations for the deployment and construction of a 3D-printed habitat. The construction submissions demonstrate the technology for 3D-printing through a material and deposition system. SEArch+ also won first place in Construction Levels 1 & 2 over the course of the competition. The Phase 3 Challenge specifically asked teams to consider materials for construction that were ranked and assigned weight factors based on ISRU (in situ-resource utilisation) applicability on Mars and over the course of an autonomous surface mission. 

How does your concept ensure that humans can live in space, and safely explore another planet? A space habitat is a closed loop environment where human life is on the interior. Our team took great care to ensure that the structural, mechanical, and ecological systems that were proposed were sound and appropriate within the context of a future Mars mission. The core demands and requirements for the success of a future space habitat are the same as within terrestrial architecture. The design of the structure and its environment should support the success and wellbeing of the crew as well as the mission. Central to our methodology is an evidence-based design approach, where decisions about every element of the habitat’s design are grounded in relevant research particularly as it relates to human factors and human systems integration.  What is the starting point for designing a building that is created for another planet? Future 3D-printed habitats on the Moon and Mars will need to be (semi-)autonomously deployed prior to a crew’s arrival. What that means is that the entire habitat and the integration of all of its subsystems will need to come together and be constructed robotically. Our current chemical rocket propulsion technology (the rockets that will get us there) makes it too expensive to send all the elements and materials that we will need for a habitat from Earth. So instead, the principle is to use local and indigenous materials on the surface of the planet as much as possible to sustainably construct a structure that can house a future crew. Martian regolith (soil) is the preferred material of choice for use in 3D-printing.  What were the design considerations for building a habitation on Mars/the Moon? There are many design considerations to be made for a concept of operations to be

devised for a future space habitat on Mars. These could be categorised as: environmental challenges, construction challenges, and human factors challenges. The environmental challenges have to do with addressing the thin atmosphere, the lack of breathable air, and creating a pressurised volume for the crew to live, work and operate freely. The construction challenges have to do with the deployment of all the systems and robotic elements that will be required for the habitat to be autonomously constructed.  How does the task of designing architecture for out of space, inform and enhance the way we approach projects on Earth? The space sector has long been the source and inspiration for technological advancement. Design for Space brings out the best in design for Earth. From advances in Construction Technologies like 3D Printing, to Net Zero Energy High Performance Buildings, to Smart Homes, designing for humans in space has a direct impact on design for future living on Earth. The potential for spin-offs of space technology for the design and construction industry is boundless, as is the application of spin-ins from earth construction to living in space. Do you think that we will soon be able to physically build habitations in space for space exploration? Yes absolutely, and it’s happening already! NASA’s NextSTEP program is actively working with leading aerospace companies to develop a number of prototypes for deep space habitats. But in regards to living on the surface of another planet, Space Policy Directive 1 announced within the US in 2017 has made it quite clear in its rhetoric that first we’ll create a permanent settlement on the Moon. Afterwards, we’ll be heading to Mars. www.spacexarch.com

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 47

Product Gallery

a worksurface like no other Ice White, is part of the Ice of Genesis collection from COMPAC, the result of a unique collaboration between COMPAC and artist and designer Arik Levy that brings together technology, design and art to create a quartz work surface like no other. Inspired by the great ice lakes of the artic, Ice White has a depth exquisitely balanced between fragility and stability. A work surface that creates warm, coolness and abstraction and will inspire those who wish to create a truly innovative environment in the home or workplace. Ice White is available in a polished finish that enhances its surface colour or a glacé finish that offers a distinctive sensation to the touch. compac.es

Helifix’s Masonry Repair Details Structural repair specialist, Helifix, has recently made an addition to its extensive range of over 100 Repair Details with three new guides that include full technical and installation information on how to overcome a variety of structural faults. The new Repair Details extend the portfolio of applications currently available using SockFix, ResiTie and DryFix products. Every repair detail features drawings and provides details of the required products and tooling, specification notes and a step by step guide on how to undertake each repair using concealed installation techniques. The full range of Repair Details can be viewed, and individually downloaded, on the Helifix website at www.helifix. co.uk/downloads. The site also contains full Helifix product information, brochures, applications, case studies and installation videos. 020 8735 5200 | [email protected] | www.helifix.co.uk

NEW 3D BIM SERVICE New 3D BIM (Building Information Modelling) technology is available from foam tape sealing company ISO CHEMIE. The move will enable architects and designers to integrate high quality scaled digital information around window and door sealing solutions as part of their 3D visualisations and client presentations. BIM is playing an increasingly significant role in the design and delivery of large and complex fenestration projects and installations in the UK. Product information and specification data from the company’s joint sealing tapes, multi-function joint sealing tapes and in-front-ofwall installation systems such as

48 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

Winframer will be available initially for downloading free as BIM-ready items via www.portal.iso-chemie.eu or an external database. It can also be used in CAD software such as ‘Autodesk Revit, while an electronic CAD product catalogue will be available as a supplement to this as more products are at the planning stage. The new service will facilitate the planning, delivery and management of window and door design and installations using a common data model for all participants. All the relevant building data is digitally recorded, combined and interlinked in a model. [email protected] www.iso-chemie.eu

Ask The Expert

ACOUSTIC design Poppy Szkiler, Founder and Managing Director of Quiet Mark, outlines how to go from an acoustic novice to an acoustic aficionado In 2019 we can comfortably say the architectural sector has a keen focus on the requirements of modern clients. Whether that’s accessibility, digital innovation, green urban planning, working with recycled materials, energy efficiency or robotic design and automation. But is it also fair to say that one of the oldest issues in building design is being overlooked? Noise can often be the forgotten problem. Imagine you’ve just completed a beautifully designed project laden with the latest locally sourced eco materials, fully energy efficient and bursting with innovative design features. Taking a moment to enjoy the new building, something is wrong. You can hear a neighbour’s petrol chainsaw. You detect the movement of the plumbers doing a final fix in the bathroom upstairs. The state-of-the-art extractor-hood whines constantly on its lowest setting. This is a perfect property apart from the noise. Part of the problem is the limited acoustic-focused education. Architects report they spend little time on acoustic design as part of their training, meaning acoustics can be an after thought. Light and Sound both share equal halves of our existence yet sound is notably

behind in design consideration, perhaps because it is invisible. However, the importance of quiet cannot be underestimated. Unwanted noise is a pollutant that can cause a number of short and long-term health problems, including stress, sleep disturbance, increased risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease, as well as hearing impairment. 

"Unwanted noise is a pollutant that can cause a number of short and longterm health problems" The World Health Organisation has defined noise pollution as the biggest threat to public health after air pollution. Sound also directly impacts our emotions, but we can make positive changes through the materials we use, the doors and windows we fit and the appliances and technology we buy. This benefits residents for many years to come, by looking after the aural environment and reducing the potential health issues related to the building. But how do you know which

materials will take you from acoustic novice to acoustic aficionado? Help is now at hand. Quiet Mark is the uniquely positioned global award programme, born from the Noise Abatement Society, which was established in 1959. It was developed to assist consumers and industry professionals by technically verifying the latest low noise high performance products and solutions to unwanted noise in over 60 product categories. Quiet Mark awarded products offer third party reassurance that they deliver the best technical performance but with optimum noise reduction for each user experience, validated by acoustic experts. From Interface Luxury Vinyl tile Flooring to Pilkington Optiphon and Everest Acoustic Triple Glazed windows to Vaillant and Ideal Boilers, Quiet Mark have all your acoustic needs covered. Even down to the most noise efficient toilet flush with the Grohe Rapid SL Flush System. Understanding acoustics is helpful for open plan living, night-time usage, busy families, supporting hearing sensitivities, including Autism, Dementia, and for everyone’s general health and wellbeing.

POPPY SZKILER Founder and Managing Director of Quiet Mark, Poppy is the granddaughter of John Connell OBE who started the Noise Abatement Society in 1959. Quiet Mark sprang from the response to public complaints received by the Noise Abatement Society’s 24/7 national noise helpline, concerning the volume of excessive noise made by household tools and appliances which invade the fabric of everyday life.

www.quietmark.com

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 49

MK Gallery

Case study

MK

GALLERY by 6a architects 6a architects has redesigned the MK Gallery in Milton Keynes to double the existing exhibition space and offer new entertainment and hospitality facilities to continue the thriving arts scene in the area. The original MK Gallery was constructed in the 1990s near the Milton Keynes Theatre, creating an arts district to the city. As part of the new development, the architects built an additional building to extend the existing space of the gallery. The new MK Gallery was designed to reflect the natural world in its polished stainlesssteel exterior surfaces inspired by the classic Milton Keynes architecture and the geometries of the adjacent Campbell Park. Overall, both the old and new sections of the gallery provides room for five exhibitions, with

a total of 500 sq metres of exhibition space; a large learning and community studio and The Sky Room; a flexible auditorium on the upper floor with 150 retractable seats and views over Campbell Park and the countryside. Integrated within the new scheme, artists Gareth Jones and Nils Norman were commissioned, in collaboration with 6a architects and graphic designer Mark El-khatib, to create City Club, a sequence of new public spaces in and around the new MK Gallery, including the foyer, café/bar and Sky Room. The unique Sky Room can be divided into two spaces, providing facilities for an independent cinema programmed with Curzon Cinemas, or gigs, poetry nights, comedy nights and social and corporate functions, with a standing capacity of 300.

50 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

Case Study

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 51

MK Gallery

The aptly named Sky Room houses the expansive new spherical window. This iconic window is inserted in the front of the building, connecting all five galleries, and allowing a central perspective from the outside all the way through the building. Functioning as a ‘High-tech cabin’, the Sky Room has exposed metallic soffit and services features Douglas fir panels and a huge multi-coloured curtain striped in sedimented landscape colours that can be drawn across the window. Other additions inside the gallery include a gift shop at the brand new entrance with a colour scheme that revives the original gallery ‘sandstone and terracotta’ façade, with a large red neon heart, the first ever logotype for Milton Keynes, and a double headed axe, that are part of the homage to the city’s iconic original design. There’s also an independent café, stylised with exposed pipework and accents of bright red and yellow, evoking the original 1970s architects’ department for the Milton Keynes Development Corporation. By the café, there is a new garden with a grass Amphitheatre, original globe lampposts and planting schemes and a sculpture, The Object, 1995-7 by artist Dhruva Mistry. Outside, there also features a playscape and a new façade for the existing gallery. 6a architects prioritised accessibility in the new building, by incorporating a fully equipped changing space and toilet for people with complex needs into their design. It is one of only two facilities of its kind in central Milton Keynes, part of the gallery’s award-winning long-term programme for people with disabilities. They also ensured the lift was large enough to take at least two wheelchairs, to ensure everyone has access to the auditorium. Anthony Spira, Director of MK Gallery, said: “Our ambition has been to create a building where the art centre and the social spaces come together in what we believe is a rare example of collective authorship across disciplines, where art, architecture and design are interchangeable. In doing so, we are proposing a new kind of accessible art centre, which pays tribute to and tells the story of Milton Keynes.” The development provides for major exhibitions both contemporary and historical, films, music, performance, family events, workshops, and social spaces open free to all. The new MK Gallery opened with The Lie of the Land, an ambitious exhibition spread across all five galleries. The exhibition looks at changing attitudes towards leisure, culture and landscape over more than 250 years.

www.6a.co.uk www.mkgallery.org @MKGallery

52 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

SUPPLIER TEAM Client: MK Gallery Architect: 6a architects Contractors: Bowmer & Kirkland Project management and contract administration: Jackson Coles  Structural Engineer: Momentum Environmental Engineer: Max Fordham LLP Quantity Surveyor: Gleeds Artists: Gareth Jones & Nils Norman

matt. gloss. laminated. A variety of over a 100 highgloss, supermatt, woodgrain and fantasy designs. Available in acrylic, PP, PVC and paper gloss finishes from the likes of Senoplast, Hornschuch and Renolit, among many others.

Contact us for more information. Century House, Premier Way, Lowfields Business Park, Elland, West Yorkshire, HX5 9HF

T: +44 (0) 1484 658341 E: [email protected] www.decorativepanels.co.uk August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 53

The Sapphire Ice and Leisure Centre

Sapphire Ice and Leisure Centre by Saunders Boston Architects The Sapphire Ice and Leisure Centre in Romford, named in honour of the Queen’s Sapphire Jubilee, is a striking redevelopment of the town’s former ice rink designed by Saunders Boston Architects. The project required specific and unique approaches to light and space concepts to overcome the limited build space; as a result of which, the centre is one of only a

handful of leisure centres in the UK where an ice rink is constructed directly above a swimming pool, as a usual design process would see the swimming pool and ice rink at ground level, side by side. The state of the art ice rink, eight-lane regional short course swimming pool, learner pool, and fitness suite, designed by Saunders Boston Architects, required extensive research and collaboration with specialist consultants, engineers,

54 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

mechanical and electrical designers, manufacturers, to overcome a vast range of technological uncertainties due to the unique space and brief. A key consideration of the centre’s design, which required unique understanding from the architecture practice, was its lighting. Designing to allow natural light in buildings is always preferable, as it helps create an atmosphere of wellness and relaxation. This is particularly important in leisure and

Case Study

sports centres, as the environment should be designed to not only facilitate exercise, but also encourage it. When accommodating a swimming pool as part of a leisure design, the way that light interacts with water has to be considered for safety reasons, as excess glare on the surface of water can make it difficult for life guards to see below the water line. With all of this in mind, Saunders Boston Architects utilised a very specific material, translucent polycarbonate, for the centre’s façade panels in order to overcome the problem. The use of the polycarbonate material minimised glare on the water surface, while also allowing natural light into the building during the day, and projecting artificial light back outside at night. The result was a striking façade design that was both aesthetically and practically effective. The £30m facility was designed to support the London Borough of Havering’s longterm commitment to providing stateof-the-art leisure facilities for the local community. Alongside the ice rink and swimming pool, the centre also features a 100 station gym with modern equipment and a variety of facilities for group activities and relaxation, such as a Group Cycling Studio, Sauna, Steam Room, retail area and Café. The centre was designed with a

community focus at its core, and has become home to the Raiders ice hockey team; providing a hub for the community to come together in support of their local team. Saunders Boston Architects has a wealth of experience in the sport and leisure industry, which is one of its key areas of expertise, among education, higher education and science, residential, retirement living and care. Due to its expertise, the architecture practice was appointed by the local authority, through D&B main contractor Willmott Dixon, as lead consultant. Collaboration between Saunders Boston Architects, design partners, the local authority, contractors, sub-contractors and key funding partner, Sport England, was essential to the creation of such a unique facility. With regards to Saunders Boston Architects’ work on the project, Mark Butler, London Borough of Havering, said: “When Saunders Boston Architects joined the team, they brought with them a fresh approach, working collaboratively with the design partners including the local authority, contractor and sub-contractors and our key funding partner Sport England”.

www.saundersboston.co.uk

SUPPLIER TEAM Architects: Saunders Boston Architects Main Contractor: Willmott Dixon Funded by: Havering Council and Sport England Project Manager: CBRE Quantity surveyor: Sweett Seating: Ferco Seating Balustrading and handrail: Delta Balustrades Electrical installation: REL Building Services Lighting: LED Flex Panels: Danpalon® translucent polycarbonate panels Panels supplied by: Everlite Concept Panels installed by: SD Samuels

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 55

SHORTLIST

WINDOWS & SKYLIGHTS Curated by Jessica Bacon

2

1

3

4

6

1 Vario rang Velux Vario, Price on request www.velux.co.uk 2 Reversible Window Deceuninck, Price on request www.deceuninck.com 3 SunGuard® SNX 60 Guardian Glass, Price on request www.guardianglass.com 4 AWS 75 PD.SI Schueco, Price on request www.schueco.co.uk 5 Sky-Frame Arc Sky-Frame, Prices from around £5,000. www.sky-frame.com 6 Aero Glide Sun Square, From £4,500 www.sunsquare.co.uk

56 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

5

Product Gallery

ANCON’S TECH SEMINARS NOW IN BITE SIZE WEBINARS Ancon has extended its technical services offering with the addition of webinars to complement a highly successful CPD-approved seminar programme of over 30 years. The first webinar available in the series is entitled The Correct Use of Wall Ties in Brick-to-Block Construction. This webinar provides viewers with information on the various types of cavity wall restraints and their design considerations including how to limit heat/sound transfer. The webinars are delivered by Ancon technical staff who have considerable technical experience of applying seminar content in practice and in answering questions from both specifiers and contractors. The webinars are available on demand from the ‘Resources’ section of the Ancon website here: www.ancon.co.uk/resources/webinars 0114 275 5224 | [email protected] | www.ancon.co.uk

Your Perfect Acrylic Partner High gloss acrylics from Senoplast continue to meet the needs of current design trends and enrich the furniture market worldwide, with their unmistakable surface quality, excellent gloss effect and unique depth of gloss. Thanks to 60 years of experience and highly specialised know-how, Senoplast, is a tradition conscious company ensuring first class product quality. Senoplast is one of the industries recognised leaders in high gloss acrylic materials and together with Decorative Panels Lamination (dp-lamination), a long term established manufacturer of this product, they are able to offer laminated Senoplast sheet material with unrivalled quality to the market. As one of the UK’s largest laminators, dp-lamination has established a successful partnership with Senoplast, offering all the latest designs as stock items as well as showcasing trending designs to gauge market reaction. After ever increasing demand for a range of metallic matt surfaces, the latest Senoplast designs to be stocked by dp-lamination are Grey Metallic and Champagne Metallic matts. The unique combination of a matt acrylic, paired with the metallic flakes in the surface, make these new designs stand out for all the right reasons. Not only do these finishes have a superb appearance but they have extraordinary scratch and scour resistance whilst being

like velvet to touch. An understated richness without cold tones, Grey Metallic matt is the perfect background to make other accent colours really stand out. Alternatively, brimming with warmth and an unmatchable depth, the subtle richness of Champagne Metallic Matt creates an earthy and uplifting finish. The Senoplast offer from dp-lamination now extends to over 60 finishes and includes 11 designs that are unavailable anywhere else on the market. The Senoplast offer is split between the company’s dp-specialist and dp-limitless collections. 32 Senoplast designs are available in bulk within the dpspecialist portfolio, which extends to over 100 designs in gloss, matt and fantasy finishes. There are another 31 Senoplast designs within the dp-limitless range which are available from as little as one board. The 63 designs range from modern grey tones and aqua shades to neutral hues. There is a colour for every design need. Create a contemporary look by combining one colour with both matt and gloss finishes or pair with a textured woodgrain from the dp-decor range for a more traditional feel. A PUR Hot Melt is used by the West Yorkshire based company to laminate Senoplast acrylic to achieve the perfect finish. 01484 658341 | [email protected] decorativepanels.co.uk

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 57

Product Gallery

Ultrabond Eco Mapei has introduced two new adhesives into their already extensive range: Ultrabond Eco MS 4LVT and Ultrabond Eco MS 4LVT Wall. These single component silylated, polymer-based adhesives are designed for luxury vinyl tiles, planks, and as a universal adhesive for most types of resilient floor coverings. Ultrabond Eco MS 4LVT is an integral part of the recently launched Shower Systems 4LVT, a full system for in-shower LVT wall and flooring installations. The adhesive can be applied in areas where traditional two-part adhesives would usually be the only option.

Being a single part adhesive there is no mixing required, thus no waste. Mapei Ultrabond Eco MS 4LVT is a thixotropic adhesive, ensuring tiles achieve an immediate grab. Completely unaffected by moisture, it can be applied in areas which are constantly exposed to water such as wet rooms and communal showers. Unused material can be used for up to a year as long as the lid to the bucket is correctly replaced. Shower Systems 4LVT also comprises of a full tanking system, incorporated with Mapeguard WP200 waterproofing membrane. www.mapei.com

THE POWER OF DESIGN Method began with the belief that a well designed bin could have the power to change recycling behaviours in the modern workplace, and it has. Method’s designer bins can now be found in some of the world's most innovative spaces. Method’s bins are coded with information to change not only the way individuals interact with the bins but how they interact with recycling and waste. The 60L bins are colour coded to industry standards with clear graphics to assist in waste separation. The bins are then placed next to each other to form flexible recycling stations that are located throughout any open plan space. Out in the open the stations increase recycling rates through visibility, greater accountability and the availability of all recycling and waste options. www.methodrecycling.com

AESTHETICALLY PRACTICAL The new Porcelain Pavers collection from CTD Architectural Tiles is an extensive range of 20mm-thick porcelain tiles specially suited to outdoor environments. Comprised of 22 different tile ranges, each and every product in the Porcelain Pavers collection meets all the technical and design requirements for exterior applications. Guaranteed to deliver on both practical and aesthetic qualities, every collection within the range is extremely durable and resistant to breaks thanks to the 20mm thickness. Boasting a +36PTV (wet) slip-resistant structured surface, the exterior tile collections are extremely low maintenance thanks to their exceptionally low porosity and as a result are particularly well suited to swimming pool surround and patio applications. From residential projects to leisure complexes and health clubs, CTD Architectural Tiles’ Porcelain Pavers collection combines outstanding performance with exceptional design to help architects, interior designers, developers and specification professionals achieve any manner of exterior project brief. 0800 021 4835 | www.ctdarchitecturaltiles.co.uk

58 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

My Inspiration

IN MY WORDS

my inspiration Francesca Pintus, senior Urban Designer at HOK, shares her inspiration, her grandfather’s studio and technical tools, her homeland Sardinia, and architects that forge design around the landscape, or the spirit of a place Born and bred in Sardinia, Italy, as a child I insolently spent hours playing in my grandfather’s forbidden studio, a wonderland of tracing paper, set squares and rapidograph pens that I was meant to stay away from. My grandfather was in fact a geometra - a man who dealt with geometry, as the name suggests - a hybrid between an architect, a building engineer and a surveyor. Although he retired before I could truly comprehend the nature of his job, I believe it was him who instilled in me a fascination for the idea of creating through a balanced blend of artistic flair and technical knowledge. Years after, this led me to study Building Engineering and Architecture, at Università degli Studi di Cagliari, to explore both sides in equal depth. When the global crisis reached its apex, I moved to London to complete my studies with a MArch in Urban Design and, more importantly, to test whether living in a metropolis would actually allow me to make a living from architecture. As it turned out, it did. Thanks to my mixed educational background, in the past ten years I have had the chance to work on the most diverse projects, from small scale interiors to vast and complex masterplans. Today at HOK I work mostly on international projects, and I am lucky enough to travel to remote countries and discover different cultures and uses. As I embrace multiculturalism and deliver projects on an international scale, I believe that my roots still have a big influence on the way I deal with life and approach design anywhere in the world. My homeland, Sardinia, is an ancient, proud, and still occasionally wild, island. Sculpted by wind and sea, Sardinia is a place ‘out of time and history’, as D.H. Lawrence wrote in 1921. As it fiercely fights to protect its beautiful historical and natural landscapes (often going to

the detriment of prosperity) Sardinia inculcates in you a strong sense of respect for the place. From this, a respect for any place. I believe that, as architects, we never start on a blank canvas, yet rather on an intensively coloured one. To me, understanding the genius loci, the spirit of a place, is key to a successful and, ultimately, right, design. I therefore have a strong admiration for those artists and architects who cleverly ‘touch the earth lightly’ and create spectacular design that, with apparent simplicity, ties into the local natural and cultural context. My first infatuation was for Alvar Aalto, and his idea of exploring modernism through the integration of nature into design. I have always looked up to Glenn Murcutt, and the way he shapes architecture around wind, water and light, allowing sustainability to meet elegance. I love the occasional light touch of Alvaro Siza in projects such as the Leça Swimming Pools on the seafront of Palmeira. I am intrigued by post-industrial projects (Parco Dora in Turin, to name one), that create new dignity to derelict places. Last but not least, I deeply admire contemporary landscape architects who create evocative open spaces with minimum moves: have a look at the TudelaCulip Restoration Project by EMF and you will feel at peace with the world. www.hok.com

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 59

Product Gallery

Cutting Edge Lighting Device Franklite are one of the very few decorative and soft commercial lighting companies that has its own photometer and spectrometer and the only UK company which owns a Rigo 801-1500 nearfield Goniophotometer, a cutting edge device used for measurement of light emitted from an object at different angles. In recent years lighting technology has evolved at a tremendous pace and with this investment it enables Franklite to lead the field. From hotels to care homes or restaurants to domestic and maybe even your office, see Franklite’s exciting new range of products for all your lighting requirements online. [email protected] www.franklite.cnet

BESPOKE WINE RACKS A & W Moore Wine Racks have been manufacturing wine racks in the UK since 1977. It is a family-run business, providing a comprehensive range of high quality wine racks and wine cabinet storage solutions. A & W Moore has built its reputation on building bespoke wine racks using only the finest materials, to not only provide bespoke storage solutions that are tailor-made, but also to ensure that no matter the wood or metal, the wine storage solution will preserve wine or champagne for generations. A & W Moore’s reputation for quality products at affordable prices, combined with great personal service, means that they now have loyal clients from every corner of the globe, as well as across the United Kingdom. Choose from our large collection of solid oak wine racks, solid pine wine racks, traditional wood & steel wine racks or all metal wine racks to find the perfect fit. 0115 9441434 | [email protected] | wineracks.co.uk I: @awmwineracks P:AWMWineRacksUK

A & W MOORE Wine Racks manufacture the largest range of wine storage solutions in the UK. We produce tailor-made storage units for any space.

Call Now for a quote 01159441434

[email protected] or visit wineracks.co.uk

60 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

AC July 18 Sheldon_Layout 3 02/08/2018 13:04 Page 51

Buyers Guide Buyers Guide ADHESIVES

DOORS

RAINWATER & GUTTERING

ECO & ENERGY SOLUTIONS

DOORS & WINDOWS

STOVES & WOOD BURNERS

LIGHTING

SECURITY SOLUTIONS

The most efficient small circulators you can specify

Call 01283 523000 or visit www.wilo.co.uk DIGITAL DESIGN

August 2019 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE 61

THE LAST WORD

100 years of SBA Nick Green, Director of Saunders Boston Architects, shares the secrets behind 100 years of the practice Architecture is one of few professions that is, very literally, embedded in historic tradition while simultaneously drawing the landscape of the future. As a Director of Saunders Boston Architects, a Cambridgebased practice that is currently celebrating its centenary year of existence and 50th year in Cambridge, I see this idea echoed everyday throughout our approach to our work, and through the industry as a whole. Cambridge is on the one hand a traditional university city, and on the other a hub of science and technological innovation. The two are intrinsically linked as the architectural roots of the city are firmly placed in both its iconic landscape, and the new laboratories, education facilities, and research centres that are physically enabling Cambridge’s growth. Some of our recent projects include, a £15m highly complex refurbishment of an existing city centre research building, £6m specialist teaching facility for veterinary students,

specialist laboratory spaces for cutting edge scientific imaging instruments, among many more. Working with existing buildings that are steeped in heritage and adapting them to enable modern innovation requires a unique understanding of the specific cultural, social, functional and built context they sit within, alongside a thorough consideration of the people and processes that will be accommodated by any project. This understanding and consideration of design and people has always been at the heart of our approach and will continue into the future. For 100 years now, we’ve placed a huge emphasis on building personal relationships, both externally and internally; which has guided us through the past 100 years of the practice. We marked our centenary in similar style to our designs, by celebrating the past, the people, and looking ahead to the future; hosted in the Fisher Building at St John’s College, Cambridge we launched the new

62 ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE August 2019

face of our brand, which is in line with the technological advancements that we predict to shape the future of our industry, and are implementing into our design approach. Through technology such as building information modelling (BIM) and VR, the way that we approach and convey architectural design is being revolutionised; which is essential when designing buildings for experts at the forefront of their fields. Innovating with technology is essential for growth in any industry, but should always be tempered by an appreciation of the past and respect for people and context. Whether designing a laboratory, school, community building or a home, keeping in mind the past, the people, and the future of the buildings is how we have continued to provide well considered long lasting architectural design for the past 100 years, and look forward to continuing to do so for the next 100 years. www.saundersboston.co.uk

Extensio

n

Existing

Schlüte ® colour-c r - T R E N D L IN E oated alu minium p rofiles Schlüter ®LI PROTE C lighting pro file technology

Schlüter ®BEKOTEC -THERM hydronic un derfloor heating and modula r screed s ystem

Schlüter ®to complem P R O F IL E S ent tile and stone

PROBLEM SOLVED

Schlüter ®D IT R A - H E AT electric und ertile heatin - E - D U O g and s reduction fo r wall and fl ound Schlüter ®oors D IL E X movement joint

Schlüter-Systems UNDERFLOOR HEATING When specifying underfloor heating, you need a system you can trust. Underfloor heating by Schlüter-Systems offers solutions for all project scenarios by coming in two forms; the hydronic Schlüter®-BEKOTEC -THERM and the electric Schlüter®-DITRA -HEAT-E-DUO, both suitable for use in commercial and residential installations with tile and stone coverings. Backed up by expert technical support, whenever, wherever you need it. Making the decision to choose Schlüter-Systems even easier. To find out more call 01530 813396 or visit www.schluterspecifier.co.uk