Leading manufacturer of tile installation products, Schlüter-Systems has published a striking new brochure, aimed at guiding architects, interior designers and other specifiers through the often-challenging process of fitting out a bathroom.

As revealed in the foreword to the publication, following some images of a luxurious looking bathroom, “the fact is that the products you can’t see in this bathroom are just as important as the ones you can. Much like the backstage crew to a world-famous pop singer, the behind-the-scenes aspects put the show on the road or, in this case, they ensure the bathroom is functional and protected.”

And therein lies the crux of the company’s 24-page full colour brochure, in that it is designed to explain how each product will ensure a bathroom failure does not occur if all the ‘backstage’ considerations are taken into account: these extending from effective floor and wall waterproofing to effective shower drainage, pipework connections and sealing systems.

The luxury aspects are taken into consideration too, with the company’s Schlüter-DITRA-HEAT electric floor and wall heating system. While its modern LED technology Schlüter-LIPROTEC promises to create lighting effects ranging from restful ones for relaxing spaces, to bright, colourful lighting for a busy family bathroom. Schlüter-SHELF, meanwhile, offers a stylish storage solution with a choice of patterns including the FLORAL, CURVE, PURE, SQUARE and WAVE variants. The same patterns can be found in the drain grate options of Schlüter-KERDI-DRAIN and KERDI-LINE, the point and linear drainage solutions, so a coordinated design can be achieved. There are also multiple finishes to choose from, including brushed stainless steel and powder coated aluminium.

Other products covered in the brochure include the Schlüter-KERDI-200 waterproof membrane, as well as the Schlüter-KERDI-BOARD – a waterproof tile backerboard board that provides a flat and even substrate to reduce the number of installation processes needed to create a waterproof assembly, saving time on-site. These are complimented with a wide variety of pre-formed niches which, if desired, come with the option of integral LED lighting.

Lastly, the tile trims finish off the installation and protect the edges of the tiles from damage – with Schlüter again supplying a wide choice of shape, textures and finishes, to complete any wetroom in style.

Featuring high quality colour photography throughout, this brochure concludes by conveying Schlüter’s comprehensive technical expertise through CAD drawings, project support and a sample service, with its products even available on Virtual Worlds. From start to finish, the specialist’s publication has covered every aspect required to create a beautiful bathroom.


 

For further information, call 01530 813396

or CLICK HERE to visit the Schlüter website

You can download the bathroom brochure here.

 


 

 

 

Raffles London at the OWO

Schlüter-Systems to showcase hospitality range at HIX, London

 

(Stand 64C London Business Design Centre – 16-17 November 2023)

 

 

Schlüter-Systems, market leaders of high-quality system solutions for tile and stone applications, will be exhibiting at this year’s HIX show on 16 & 17 November.

 

With an extensive portfolio including underfloor heating, tile trims, shower profiles, shelves and waterproofing systems, all backed up by industry-leading service, expert advice and a collaborative approach to finding clients the right solution for every application, it’s not surprising Schlüter-Systems’ products and services have been specified in many luxury hotels, including the newly opened Raffles London at the OWO.

 

Visitors to the Schlüter-Systems stand can discover the endless design possibilities of Schlüter-LIPROTEC illuminated profiles for ceramic or natural stone coverings. Also on show will be Schlüter-KERDI-BOARD-W, a fully customisable, prefabricated washbasin. Lightweight and easy to handle, KERDI-BOARD-W is immediately ready to tile, saving time and costly mistakes. These are just a couple of the many solutions on offer at the stand that will help make hospitality bathrooms and spas not only look amazing but will ensure they are reliably waterproofed for years to come.

 

For further information, call 01530 813396 or visit Schlüter-Systems’ website www.schluter.co.uk

 

Zentia, a pioneering leader in ceiling systems, is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated launch of three new creative additions to Sonify. This innovative release introduces an array of cutting-edge features that redefine the possibilities of acoustic design, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. 

 

Launched on 6th September, these three new additions to the Sonify range enables architects, designers, and space planners to craft truly immersive environments that prioritise both form and function.

The update includes the introduction of Sonify Tilt, a solution for creating motion in design using angled panels, redefining precision alignment without the need for cable adjustments. The incorporation of 3D free-flowing materials opens up new avenues for captivating raft solutions, making spaces more engaging and visually stimulating. Installation is seamless and swift, and the innovative angles not only serve as design elements but also enhance sound absorption by disrupting sound waves and curbing reverberation within the environment.

Another addition is the introduction of Sonify Highway, which introduces an innovative design approach by allowing wider gaps between panels, emphasising the support grid as a prominent visual element. The dual layer grid, available in an array of 35 colours, contrasts aesthetically with panel and soffit shades, injecting a personalised flair. Sonify Highway not only showcases the grid but also facilitates easier access to areas requiring constant entry without the need for panel adjustments, allowing designs to evolve and reflect the dynamic nature of modern spaces.

Sonify Wall Absorbers are also now available, offering pioneering solutions in acoustic design. Sonify Wall Absorbers can effortlessly adhere to walls offering rapid and efficient installation. Architects and designers can leverage the panels as visual elements, combining multiple units to create patterns and infuse colour into the rest of the room. By achieving a vertical dimension of sound absorption, the wall absorbers deliver both acoustic and visual excellence.

 

John Spicer, Head of New Product Development at Zentia, expressed the company’s enthusiasm about these exciting new features:

“With these latest additions to our Sonify suite, we empower architects and designers to go above and beyond traditional acoustic solutions, and foster boundless creativity. Each component may seem small, but as a collective, they amplify design choices, offering a new dimension of individuality.”

 


CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE ZENTIA WEBSITE

 

Lindapter Hollo-Bolts are now independently Fire Rated for up to 120 minutes.

 

As part of our continued commitment and investment in product development and testing Lindapter commissioned the Building Research Establishment (BRE) to independently fire test Lindapter Hollo-Bolts.

Lindapter’s Hollo-Bolt Hexagonal Head is an expansion bolt that only requires access from one side of the Structural Hollow Section (SHS). They offer a faster alternative to welding or through-bolting, enabling contractors to reduce construction time and labour costs. Installation is quickly carried out by inserting into pre-drilled steelwork and tightening with a torque wrench. Also suitable for blind connections where access is available from one side only.

We are now pleased to announce that our carbon steel, hexagonal head Hollo-Bolts have been independently fire tested under tensile and shear loading with simultaneous exposure to standard fire conditions in accordance with ISO 834/ASTM E-119 for 120 minutes.

This provides further reassurance to construction professionals working with Lindapter and demonstrates our commitment to quality and transparency of product performance by increasing the volume of independent data that we have.

 


For further details and load data please contact

 

Lindapter technical support on +44 (0) 1274 521444

 

or CLICK HERE to email Lindapter

 

WEBSITE

 

 


 

 

Rainscreen cladding solutions feature on many different types of property, from apartment blocks and hotels to schools and railway stations, while the build-up behind the visible panels is relied upon to ensure their performance benefits extend to far more than being a first line of defence against the weather.

 

With this need for multi-functionality, industry specialist SFS has developed its offering on rainscreen cladding support systems to enable architects,  design engineers and cladding contractors to achieve an installation which delivers the required thermal, structural, fire and other performance targets in a safe and economic manner.

 

The manufacturer’s NVELOPE range supports concealed and visible fastened systems to meet most project’s aims while SFS Thermal Solutions ensures that the crucial challenge of closing the ‘Performance Gap’ can be adequately addressed. This requires not only understanding how the system can be correctly and efficiently installed on site; it also demands precise thermal modelling of the subframe to minimise point loss thermal bridging compromising the overall energy performance of the system.

 

David Fraser the Business Unit Manager for SFS, explained:

“As a key aspect on many building façades across our built environment, rainscreen cladding is a key contributor to a property’s overall energy performance, including for the huge number of older buildings which must be improved if we are to meet our net zero targets. Specifiers and installers need expert guidance if project energy design standards are to be achieved in practice. Our Thermal Solutions service and dedicated project managers can assist from the concept stages through to final delivery. Although the fitting of helping hand brackets represents a point loss thermal bridge within the continuity of the insulation, having accurate thermal modelling of different components and details, including for higher performing stainless-steel brackets and the essential thermal breaks to separate them from the main structure, helps to minimise the potential for problems relating to SAP or possibly during the working life of the building.”

 

While the SFS bracketry is designed for speed and ease of installation, as well as to accommodate normal variations in the construction tolerances of the masonry or metal framed structure, the systems within the NVELOPE Thermal Solutions range also offer a choice of performance points and the NVS+Thermal system is certified under the Passivhaus component standard.

 

The NVELOPE VB and HB ranges are produced in aluminium. (NV + Thermal & HB + Thermal are also compatible with SFS Thermal Pad) Then the NVELOPE NVS and NVS+ ranges offer the far lower thermal transmittance characteristics of 316 Stainless Steel, with a non-compressible thermal pad included to achieve the optimum U-values.

 


FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CALL 0330 0555888

  

OR CLICK HERE FOR THE SFS WEBSITE

 


 

 

 

Yale has launched an innovative new window bracket which can reduce housebuilding programmes dramatically. It allows fully glazed windows to be installed into external timber wall panels and delivered flat to the building site.

 

The patented Yale Expede Window Bracket allows fabricators to fit fully glazed windows straight into the external timber wall panels at the factory during the production process. This saves time and money, provides a consistent factory finish and creates significant savings for housebuilders.

 

Time savings and increased sales revenue

 

The bracket offers increased productivity and a faster installation once the timber panels have been erected on site as the window is simply pushed out to the required distance and the final fix inserted to permanently hold in this position. Both internal and external trades can start immediately, as the build will be watertight within one day. This can reduce the overall programme by approximately three weeks, as well as reducing site costs.

 

Increased safety

 

Paul Atkinson, Managing Director at Yale, comments:

“For housebuilders, time is money, and our bracket speeds up the entire build programme and of course window installation. With the fully glazed window in place, wet trades can get onsite earlier, and buildings are more secure from the outset. It also reduces the risk of accidents linked to manual handling and working at heights.

“As the building is secured immediately when the timber frame is constructed, it reduces the risk of theft and fire and may also reduce site insurance costs. It’s no wonder housebuilders are eagerly awaiting this new product.”

Sustainability

 

Timber can dramatically reduce the carbon footprint of a new build. Of all the main building materials, it is the most environmentally friendly, as it has the lowest energy consumption and the lowest carbon dioxide emissions.

 

As the window is transported while being protected within the external timber wall panel itself, it takes up no additional space on the lorry. This means fewer miles clocked up in transit and less traffic on site. It also means there is a reduced risk of damage to the window, reducing waste.

 

Manufactured and tested in the UK, the Yale Expede window bracket has been subjected to loading in excess of 200kg in the open position for over 72 hours and corrosion testing up to 240 hours. It is available in 50mm and 75mm variants and is covered by Yale’s Lifetime Guarantee.

 


CLICK HERE for further information on the Yale window bracket

 

or call +44 (0)1902 366800

 


 

 

ZUMTOBEL GROUP TO OPEN NEW LIGHT CENTRE  

AT THE BUSINESS DESIGN CENTRE IN ISLINGTON

London, UK – The Zumtobel Group is excited to announce the opening of a new Light Centre at the prestigious Business Design Centre in Islington, London. The newly unveiled Light Centre will serve as a captivating platform, showcasing the company’s latest and most innovative lighting products and solutions while offering customers a unique opportunity to experience the renowned Thorn and Zumtobel brands first-hand.

 

Alfred Felder, CEO of the Zumtobel Group comments

“The Zumtobel Group has always been synonymous with high quality, innovative, unique and sustainable lighting products and solutions. The new Light Centre will give us a fantastic opportunity and base to showcase our lighting solutions and expertise to our clients”.

Paul Kilburn, Managing Director UK and Ireland at the Zumtobel Group comments

“We are delighted to be opening our brand new London Light Centre. This will help bring us closer to our valued customers and partners, offering them an immersive space to experience our cutting-edge lighting products and solutions. We believe this new venture will further establish us as the leading lighting supplier in the UK and Ireland”.

 

Discover the Future of Illumination

The London Light Centre will feature a curated selection of Zumtobel’s luminaires, covering a broad range of applications, including the much-anticipated AMBITUS, TRAMAO and ARTELEA and some of the well-known Lighting Industry innovations including SLOTLIGHT INFINITY and TECTON. In addition, Thorn will showcase it’s highly anticipated new outdoor architectural range of luminaires perfect for building surrounds and façade lighting applications. Characterised by simple but elegant design, the entire range is available with Dali2 connectivity and aesthetic consistency is assured with both round or square edge ranges being available. The showroom’s flexible design will allow for seamless product demonstrations and configurations to meet varying customer needs.

 

A Space Designed for Innovation and Collaboration

Nestled in the heart of London’s vibrant design community, the Grade II listed and iconic Business Design Centre (BDC) perfectly complements Zumtobel Group’s vision for a thriving hub of creativity and inspiration. The interior of the Light Centre will reflect their signature design ethos, emphasising simplicity, elegance, and functionality. Visitors can expect a thoughtfully designed layout featuring a meeting area with hot desks for seamless collaboration, and an exhibition and conference space for product displays.

 

Dominic Jones, CEO at the BDC comments

“The lighting brands of the Zumtobel Group follow their sister company Tridonic who have been at the BDC for the last 6 years. We are absolutely delighted to welcome this leading global lighting company, who will no doubt attract key clientele from all across the capital”.


  

Mark Your Calendars for LiGHT 23 Show

 

Coinciding with the highly anticipated LiGHT 23 show the London Light Centre will open its doors for the first time on 21 November 2023.

As a leading international event for the lighting industry, LiGHT 23 was the obvious global platform for the Zumtobel Group to showcase its lighting solutions to the lighting design community.

Join the Zumtobel Group on this exciting journey as they redefine illumination and revolutionise the way we experience light.

 

CLICK HERE For further information

 

 

 

 


 

Rinnai is issuing a ‘White Paper’ report that details the potential limitations of manufacturer-issued efficiency measures for Heat pumps, namely COP (Coefficient of performance) and SCOP (Seasonal Coefficient of Performance).


WOULD YOU LIKE TO ASK RINNAI A QUESTION?  –  CLICK HERE

 


Manufacturers often measure heat pump efficiency using Coefficient of Performance (COP), which is the ratio of useful heat energy produced to the electricity consumed at a specific external air temperature and temperature rise required.

Due to the way in which efficiency is measured utilizing a SCOP rating, commercial hot water systems (CHWS) will potentially show a lack of system congruity when considering the entire system, against the expected performance of the heat pump alone, which, as a consequence, affects product expectations and ultimately carbon reductions.

Instead, the Rinnai White paper has adopted the ‘Seasonal Performance Factor’ which evaluates all energy utilizing components within a commercial hot water system, therefore, measuring the performance of the entire system as opposed to solely the heat pump.

This Rinnai White Paper on SPF, authored by Sean Ehlen M Eng, also presents a detailed case study to underline the two systems of thought used within the hot water dispersal industry. These are used to inform potential customers of a system’s efficiency.

By presenting this White Paper to UK customers, Rinnai aims to provide information that delivers a concise and true account of commercial hot water performance using the ‘Seasonal Performance Factor’ methodology.

The case study presents two heat pump systems:

  • System 1 covers the DHW demand with 100% heat pump;

  • System 2 uses 40% heat pump and includes an electric cylinder to provide back-up heat.

The results show that when considering the entire commercial hot water system, including the buildings’ piping system, System 1 has a higher SPF (2.75) than System 2 (1.49), due to System 2 operating the back-up heater in peak times and to recover secondary system heat losses.

However, when observing the SPF of only the heat pump unit, System 2 is higher. This can mislead the customer as they are expecting an SPF of close to 3.33, but the system only performs to an SPF of 1.49, as seen in table 2.

Therefore, the purpose of this White Paper is to highlight the difference in performance between differing system boundaries and works towards informing the customer of the reality of their CHWS.

Rinnai will continue to inform the UK customer of details that provide an accurate statement of system performance, while considering the effects on operational expenditure, economic investment, and environmental impact. Rinnai understands the significance of an investment during a time of sensitive energy costs. Rinnai aim to share all information that assists the UK customer in decision making that saves money and emissions.

CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE RINNAI WEBSITE

 

or HERE to EMAIL RINNAI

 

CLICK HERE For more information on the RINNAI product range

 

 

 

RINNAI’S H3 DECARBONISATION OFFERS PATHWAYS & CUSTOMER COST

REDUCTIONS FOR COMMERCIAL, DOMESTIC AND

OFF-GRID HEATING & HOT WATER DELIVERY

 

CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT RINNAI

                                                   

Rinnai’s H3 range of decarbonising products include hydrogen / BioLPG ready technology, hybrid systems, and a wide range of LOW GWP heat pumps and solar thermal. Also, within Rinnai’s H3 range is Infinity hydrogen blend ready and BioLPG ready continuous flow water heaters which are stacked with a multitude of features that ensure long life, robust & durable use, customer satisfaction and product efficiency.

Rinnai’s range of decarbonising products – H1/H2/H3 – consists of heat pump, solar, hydrogen in any configuration, hybrid formats for either residential or commercial applications. Rinnai’s H3 range of products offer contractors, consultants and end users a range of efficient, robust and affordable decarbonising appliances which create practical, economic and technically feasible solutions. The range covers all forms of fuels and appliances currently available – electric, gas, hydrogen, BioLPG, DME solar thermal, low GWP heat pumps and electric water heaters.

Rinnai H1 continuous water heaters and boilers offer practical and economic decarbonization delivered through technological innovation in hydrogen and renewable liquid gas ready technology.

Rinnai’s H1 option is centred on hydrogen, as it is anticipated that clean hydrogen fuels will become internationally energy market-relevant in the future; Rinnai water heaters are hydrogen 20% blends ready and include the world’s first 100% hydrogen-ready hot water heating technology.

Rinnai H2 – Decarbonization simplified with renewable gas-ready units, Solar Thermal and Heat Pump Hybrids Rinnai H2 is designed to introduce a practical and low-cost option which may suit specific sites and enable multiple decarbonisation pathways with the addition of high performance.

Rinnai H3 – Low-GWP heat pump technology made easy – Rinnai heat pumps are available for domestic and commercial usage with an extensive range of 4 – 115kW appliances. 

Rinnai’s H3 heat pumps utilise R32 refrigerant and have favourable COP and SCOP.

Rinnai is a world leading manufacturer of hot water heaters and produces over two million units a year, operating on each of the five continents. The brand has gained an established reputation for producing products that offer high performance, cost efficiency and extended working lives.

Rinnai’s commercial and domestic continuous flow water heaters offer a limitless supply of instantaneous temperature controlled hot water and all units are designed to align with present and future energy sources. Rinnai condensing water heaters accept either existing fuel or hydrogen gas blends. Rinnai units are also suited for off-grid customers who require LPG and BioLPG or DME.

Rinnai products are UKCA certified, A-rated water efficiency, accessed through multiple fuel options and are available for purchase 24/7, 365 days a year. Any unit can be delivered to any UK site within 24 hours. Rinnai offer carbon and cost comparison services that will calculate financial and carbon savings made when investing in a Rinnai system. Rinnai also provide a system design service that will suggest an appropriate system for the property in question. Rinnai offer comprehensive training courses and technical support in all aspects of the water heating industry including detailed CPD’s. More information can be found on Rinnai’s website and its “Help Me Choose” webpage.

 

Zoo Hardware has introduced a new bathroom lock accessory in response to the Department for Education’s Technical Annex 2D: Internal Elements and Finishes Part 5.2.2.

The Hex release options of bathroom turns have been introduced to meet the requirements of the document in relation to bathroom locks being used in schools that need to be locked from the inside by turn or lever, and released from the outside by a hexagon or star profile key, therefore excluding more traditional designs such as coin slot or square drive type releases.

Available in standard or accessible thumb turn configurations, the Hex bathroom turn and release are manufactured from grade 304 Stainless Steel and are supplied on an 8mm rose base with the rose cover options of screw-on or push-on.

As part of this range, Zoo Hardware has also introduced a separate dedicated Hex release key, which by design also offers a 5mm square drive that can be used in extreme emergency where the external release parts could be removed from the door and the key can be used to drive a 5mm Follower to allow retraction of the bathroom deadbolt.

Jason Tonks Reg AI, Technical Product Manager at Zoo Hardware, said:

“Following the last update of Technical Annex 2D by the Department for Education, we have introduced our new thumb turn and hex release to continue supporting our customers in achieving the highest standards of compliance for all sectors.

“As a UK market leading supplier of architectural ironmongery, we are committed to the continuous development of products that not only meet legislative and standard based updates but also meet our customers’ expectations with regards to performance, quality and aesthetics at a competitive price and our new bathroom turn and hex release is another example of that.”

The range includes:

  • The ZCS004iSS–HEX Standard Turn-Push on rose
  • ZCS006iSS-HEX Accessible Turn-Push on rose
  • ZPS004-iSS-HEX Standard Turn-Screw on Rose
  • ZPS006iSS-HEX Accessible Turn-Screw On Rose
  • ZPS007iSS-HEX Mini RTD Lever on Screw On Rose
  • ZCS000-HEX-KEY Accessory

CLICK HERE

 

For more information on Zoo Hardware and its portfolio of architectural door hardware

  

or call 01228 672900

 


 

Shopping in a New Dimension: EDEKA Paschmann’s Future-E-Centre Unveils Captivating “Essthetics” and Light Architecture

 

EDEKA Paschmann, a beacon of exceptional shopping experiences for over 50 years, has transformed into a retail powerhouse with eleven stores and over 1,000 workers. The inauguration of their latest establishment in Mülheim an der Ruhr, spanning an impressive 6,000 square meters, heralds the birth of a Future-E-Centre that seamlessly fuses the concepts of “Essthetics” and light architecture.

Since its inception in 1973, the Paschmann family has championed a philosophy underpinned by freshness, quality, and personalised service. A testament to this ethos, the company has thrived and actively evolved. This evolution, marked by a steadfast determination to grow and a relentless dedication to customer satisfaction, is the pinnacle in the new E-Centre — a space where innovation and customer-centricity combine in remarkable ways.

Venturing beyond the confines of traditional retail, the new E-Centre redefines shopping dynamics. Elevating products and seasonal themes to new spatial levels, the establishment invites customers to explore displays and creative lighting that interact harmoniously with the expansive interior, amplifying the sensory experience.

Key collaborators in this immersive journey include “Upel” from Essen and “Shop Zwo” from Düsseldorf, who shaped the store’s design and ambience, and OKTALITE, the retail lighting specialist from the TRILUX Group. OKTALITE’s lighting concept masterfully utilises the room’s full dimensions, including its 5-meter height, effectively breathing life into the architectural landscape.

“Our team at OKTALITE used the unique room height to enhance the shopping experience,” remarks Till Meckenstock, the dedicated project manager. “Creative ceiling elements and large displays are focal points, accentuated by lighting at an unusual installation level — nearly five metres, instead of the typical 3. This elevation of light brings not just breadth, but also an added dimension of attention.”

Beyond aesthetics, EDEKA Paschmann’s store concept and lighting seamlessly merge to form a holistic, immersive encounter. The store’s layout presents classic assortments in attractive store designs that emulate distinct themes such as the “fruit house,” “noodle factory,” and “cheese island.” Further enriching the experience, customers can explore the “Gourmeteck” and the “Fischbude,” while the “Depot” offshoot, acting as a shop-in-shop, entices with decorative offerings.

While aesthetics reign supreme, energy efficiency remains paramount.

“Even with a heightened installation level of lighting, we’ve managed to achieve both attractive and efficient lighting solutions,” reveals Till Meckenstock. “By harnessing precise beam characteristics and the LIVELINK Retail lighting management system, we’ve harnessed the power of Bluetooth Low Energy technology to network and control all luminaires. The outcome? A bespoke lighting concept with minimal energy consumption.”

The lighting ranges throughout the store include the area-wide use and interaction of the two luminaires, QUIRA PLUS and CANILO PLUS. Both products have flexible beam characteristics from narrow to wide. The QUIRA PLUS power package is ideally suited for precisely illuminating the goods. The LED recessed luminaire can be tilted up to 15 degrees and remain flush with the ceiling. It can be swivelled up to 70 degrees in vertical illumination for targeted accents. CANILO PLUS, on the other hand, is the ideal choice for ambient lighting, gondola heads, and promotion areas. The E-LINE-NEXT continuous-row lighting system and the versatile GRADO pivoting track spotlight in recessed and surface-mounted versions complement these products.

EDEKA Paschmann’s new Future-E-Centre is an example of inspired retail design, where architecture and lighting craft an engaging, unforgettable shopping experience.


CLICK HERE for further information on the

TRILUX retail lighting range