product innovations


Next generation building system


As part of the ongoing product development, Benchmark has launched a ‘next generation’ unitised wall system, which is set to invigorate façade design and raise the bar for inspirational buildings of exceptional technical performance. The pre-engineered, Benchmark Connect Wall System is a multi-spanning, modular building system, which is bolted internally so that it requires no envelope scaffolding. Weathertightness is assured once the modules have been lifted into position allowing the internal fit-out to begin and removing the façade from the critical path, which can considerably reduce programme time. The system provides the ideal platform for the Benchmark façade range, and is suitable for any type of building. The modules can be up to 7m high, and incorporate an integral cavity for ventilation and to carry services. Once installed, they are ready for fit-out of internal plasterboard and external panels alike, with pre- glazing as an option and an achievable air permeability of less than 3m3


/hr/m2 at 50Pa.


Benchmark, sponsors of the RIBA Stirling Prize, was launched last year to offer a fresh approach to façade specification, focused on a ‘one stop shop’ approach. For further information telephone 01352 717251, email info@kingspanbenchmark.comor visit www.kingspanbenchmark.com Twitter: www.twitter.com/BenchmarkTM


Classic+ design


Airdri, an innovator in warm air hand dryers, has launched a new, fast, energy-efficient dryer, designated “Classic+”, which features a low noise operation of


78dB(A), an average drying time of 13 seconds, and a reduced power requirement of 1700W at 240V. Washrooms with a multiple dryers will benefit significantly from the lower noise levels, especially when several dryers are operating at the same time. The lower power consumption, coupled with the


A breath of fresh air


A year on from the launch of ‘BEST from Britannia’, premium kitchen appliance specialist Britannia Living Ltd has boosted its offering in this unique cooker hood range with a further six additions. The ‘BEST from Britannia’ range now includes a fantastic selection of 30 premium ceiling, pendant, wall mounted, downdraft and island models. Each one combines the very best of style, functionality and quality and is competitively priced, which means customers don’t have to compromise to create the kitchen of their dreams. With two new ceiling hoods added to the range – Phobos and its counterpart Enigma – Britannia now boasts the largest ceiling hood offering in the UK. The two new models are real showstopper pieces, which both sit within the kitchen architecture once installed to create a unique look. Enigma operates as a powerful ceiling fan, which is almost imperceptible visually.


A natural ambience


Solarlux, specialists in folding door systems, glass houses and glass canopies, have launched their most efficient glass door to the UK market. The new door, the wood/aluminum SL 97, has combined four core elements that enables the door to achieve a U value of 0.80Wm2K. The door has been designed with the demands of saving energy in mind, using wood internally and a combination of protective aluminium and insulating material externally as well as triple glazing in order to be an efficient energy saving solution. The wood panels used on the inside create a natural warm ambiance whilst the exterior, featuring fully insulated rear- ventilated aluminium facing sheets, guarantees permanent protection from the elements. Also, the SL 97 folding door only needs minimal


VISUAL ARCHITECTURE CAD APPLICATIONS


Eleco Software has launched a new range of its successful ARCON Visual Architecture CAD applications. Architects, property developers and self-builders can all benefit from using the detailed toolset to quickly produce plans and models. The new visualisation software enables designers to create realistic 3D models of multiple buildings and levels within the same project and accurate scaled 2D drawings of sufficiently high quality for planning


applications. The ARCON product range includes versions dedicated to architects, developers and self- builders, who need a computer aided design program that can easily generate 3D models from 2D sketches of buildings. Create highly detailed 2D drawings ready for submission to architects, planning committees and building contractors. For further information telephone 0800 988 2438 or visit www.3darchitect.co.uk


faster drying time, means that the “Classic+” meets the demands of organisations with environmental policies demanding improved energy efficiency. Designed as a class-leading, lightweight unit, of under 6Kg, it gives added flexibility in the washroom by allowing positioning on, and to, virtually any wall type and surface. “Classic+” is available in a tough, vandal- resistant body, in white, black and chrome finishes. Fully automatic, with an infra-red sensor system, the dryer offers better energy efficiency as the unit turns on only when the user requires hand drying, and off again at a pre-determined interval. In addition, the no- touch operation completely eliminates the risks of cross infection. For further information telephone 01865 882330 or visit www.airdri.com


Meanwhile, Phobos uses the same structure and functionality, but with a sculpted round form, which is designed to emphasise the presence of the hood as a decorative feature. Other new additions in the range include Sphera, a new pendant model with a dramatic chrome finish; and three wall mounted hoods – Equinox, Surf and Dune. For further information telephone 01253 471001 or visit www.besthoods.co.uk.


maintenance. Solarlux uses products that are environmentally certified (either FSC or PEFC) meaning everyone within their supply chain benefits: the producer, retailer, manufacturer, end consumer and the environment. For more information call 01707 339970, email info@solarlux.co.uk or visit www.solarlux.co.uk.


46 Architects Choice


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