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127 Kensington High Street Video Released
Excited to share the long anticipated 127 Kensington High Street Video!
Featuring Tom Smithers from Ashby Capital and Tal Ben-Amar from Pilbrow & Partners, discussing the remarkable transformation of the 127 Kensington High Street Building, with Colorminium’s integral role in bringing their visions to life.
Engaged by Ashby Capital under an early stage agreement, we worked alongside the design team and cost consultant through the advancement of the design stages to ensure the architectural intent could be achieved, inside the parameters of the development appraisal.
This stunning building transforms the prominent corner of Kensington High Street, maximising wellbeing and a better quality of work-life in the area.
Click below to watch and read more about this project.
Structure Tone Charity Football Game
Big thanks to Structure Tone London for hosting the 5-aside football tournament this past Monday! And although we didn’t make it to the final, our team really enjoyed the night out and we were glad to support the Hollydale Primary School. The funds raised will go towards providing much-needed resources and equipment for the students.
Want to join in the fun? – Click this link to find out more about our current vacancies.
World of Terracotta
Introduction
Welcome to our blog, where we delve into the fascinating world of clay manufacture and its application in modern architecture. We will explore the entire process from quarry to finished product, shedding light on the intricate techniques and considerations involved. Our insights cover topics such as performance, aesthetics, and environmental impact, offering a comprehensive understanding of terracotta’s timeless allure. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a curious enthusiast, join us on this journey of creativity, innovation, and dedication to uncover the true potential of this ancient yet enduring material.
The use of terracotta continues to grow in Colorminium’s portfolio. Of late the product has been very popular amongst our clients and architects as demonstrated on Marylebone Square, 50 Eastbourne Terrace and The Royal Holloway University Library. Terracotta is often used in heritage environments where planning conditions dictate material applications. However, this can be done to ensure that the architectural design is fitting but ultimately it is very architecturally pleasing. Use of this artisan product can be challenging due to its fragility, but with experience it can be used highly effectively.
Manufacture
Upon arrival at the factory, quarried clay undergoes a meticulous process. It is extruded through standardized or custom-made steel dies and then precisely cut to size. At this stage it is still possible to recycle the clay element and process it again through the die.
Following shaping, the panels undergo drying and can either retain a natural finish or receive a glazed/engobe coating before firing.
The firing process is usually carried out in one of two types of kiln. Above a certain size profiles require firing using a box kiln, where ceramics are loaded, heated to the required temperature and duration, and then left to cool before unloading. While box kilns are effective, roller kilns offer greater efficiency, particularly for standard flat tile products. These kilns operate continuously, optimizing output and energy efficiency but their fixed height above the rollers limits the profiles that can be fired with this method.
Where possible terracotta profiles should be optimised to allow the use of roller kilns due to the speed and cost benefits.
At the end of the firing process profiles are trimmed to size. Where a double glazed finish has been selected a second coat of glaze will be applied, ensuring that the cut edges of the profile are covered. The profiles are then fired a second time before stacking for transport. The energy used in this second firing results in more carbon being used in the production process for double glazed terracotta and adds additional cost to the project. There are also fewer suppliers available that offer this process.
Ceramic production at NBK, photography credits – FCBStudios
Performance
In it’s essence terracotta is simply a mix of clay and water with no strengthening additives which has been used for thousands of years. Technological advancements support this proven material, making it robust under controlled conditions and whilst it is an inherently brittle material, with carefully designed supporting structure it can prove very robust under soft body impact.
Aesthetics
The base material is known for its red colour though variations exist from light beige to darker greys. However, the addition of pigments and glazes make virtually any colour possible whether glazed or unglazed.
Unglazed: Colour variation in unglazed terracotta is achieved by mixing different types of clay which give natural fired colours ranging from white, beige/yellows and of course a wide range of traditional reddish hues. A wider variation in colours can be achieved by the addition of pigments or oxides.
Glazed: With glazed tiles it is common to use a typically off-white base mixture colour for the terracotta clay with the application of glaze that is applied to the tiles before they go into the firing process. These can be a transparent glaze to show the base colour underneath or an opaque glaze. Glazes can be gloss or matt finishes and by combining multiple glazes on different layers of the product, other special effects, including iridescence, are possible. Projects such as Marylebone Square – (insert link) feature an extensive use of glazed terracotta, using a combination of extrusion, RAM press, and hand press forming methods. This project consists of four custom glazed colours in a warm palette of tan and ivory.
Single Fired Terracotta
Double Fired Terracotta
Marylebone Square, photography credits – Boston Valley Terra Cotta
Variety in Shapes: One of terracotta’s greatest strengths is its adaptability. It can be moulded into a myriad of shapes, from traditional tiles to intricate architectural elements. In it’s most efficient form profiles are extruded, with some of the key considerations being:
Extrusion Width – large format terracotta is usually extruded with maximum die widths constraining the width of the panel
Shrinkage/movement/tolerances of the panel. Large sizes are more susceptible to this in the manufacturing process. Manufacturers will determine tile thickness accordingly, and will assess the lengths possible for each width/thickness of extrusion.
Oven constraints. Roller kilns typically work with a maximum height of 150mm passing through the kiln on rollers. This limits the size of any returns or depth of any relief to be incorporated in the extrusion. Deeper pieces can be stood on end to fire in a box kiln, however this limits the height and is a lot slower and expensive.
Texture: Textured terracotta finishes are being increasingly exploited as a design feature in contemporary architecture. Standard textured finishes offered for instance by NBK terracotta include fine peeled, peeled, fine combed, medium combed, sandblasted and honed.
Life cycle: Terracotta has a long-life cycle, known to last 100 years with little maintenance, with stable colour retention. Despite its delicate appearance, terracotta boasts surprising durability. Its inherent robustness, especially against soft body impact, makes it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas. When properly supported by a well-designed structure, terracotta surfaces can withstand the rigors of everyday use.
Support Systems
Rainscreen Backing: One of the most common ways to utilize terracotta is through a rainscreen system. Terracotta tiles are hung onto a lightweight aluminium sub-support system, creating a continuous insulation outboard with overlapping joints. The system is generally open jointed and carefully designed to drain water away from the cavity that lies beneath the support structure, protecting the building from weather conditions.
Diagram of rainscreen cavity; image via NBK Architectural Terracotta
Unitized Backing: Bespoke terracotta elements can also be mounted onto a unitized façade, installed fully off-site in a factory-controlled environment. The terracotta elements are engineered in conjunction with the façade specialist to integrate structural and ventilation properties.
Precast Concrete Backing: In this case, terracotta panels are factory bonded onto large precast concrete units, offering the strength of a precast concrete construction as well as aesthetic design, profile and finish options offered by terracotta facing
Reducing The Environmental Impact
Manufacturing and transporting ceramics demand substantial energy, with firing contributing up to 55% of total energy requirements. Designing profiles that allow the use of roller kilns rather than box kilns increases efficiency and reduces the energy required for production. Similarly glazing and twice glazing the tiles for aesthetic effect requires multiple processing through the kiln and significantly increases the embodied carbon of the material.
Substructure design has a great impact on the amount of carbon that is embodied in the façade as often a number of aluminium support profiles are required. It is important to create the most efficient layout of the tiles in terms of the lengths and spans. It is important to work through this with a specialist to ensure that the most optimum solution can be found.
It is also important to develop a packing and transport strategy for the often large, relatively heavy, and fragile elements. This is to minimise breakages (and therefore wastage/remakes) and also to optimise the efficiency of the transport to storage/site.
Conclusion
In conclusion, terracotta stands as a testament to craftsmanship, innovation, and sustainability in architecture. Whether it’s preserving heritage sites or shaping the skylines of tomorrow, terracotta continues to inspire with its timeless beauty and enduring legacy.
The Telehouse South Building: Façade Refurbishment Innovations
We are actively engaged in the refurbishment of the existing façade of the Telehouse Data Centre as part of a major renovation. We are replacing the existing double-glazed units with a mixture of panels and glass within the unitized system, ensuring a seamless integration of new elements.
“Well done to all involved. This is a clear example of our façade team and supply chain understanding a complex health and safety issue and our customer’s needs. Just keep doing what you’re doing and delivering a great result.” – Ian Valentine, Project Director Skanska
Due to the nature and age of the façade, we could not guarantee the structural integrity of the glazing. Therefore, we introduced an innovative method of transporting glass panes to and from the workface by fully encapsulating them in a bag, enhancing safety and efficiency throughout the maze of the scaffold.
Designed and tested well in excess of the weight of the glass units, these bags ensure safe transit and containment of glass in case of breakage. This significantly reduces the risk of the units shattering and falling from height in a live operational environment.
By incorporating vacuum lifting equipment and the Colorminium Bags, the transportation of glass panes becomes streamlined and efficient. Panels are seamlessly removed from the façade, lowered into the protective bags, and safely transported to the designated work areas. This not only safeguards the glass but also contributes to the overall efficiency of the project. The new glass panels are hoisted up the building in the same manner and placed into the bag for transport. Connected to the chain hoist, the glass is then transported to the opening.
Through the integration of innovative solutions, such as the Colorminium Protective Bags, efficiency is optimized, enabling timely completion of milestones and ensuring a smooth progression of the renovation. We commenced onsite early 2024, and we anticipate completion by Q4 of this year. The accelerated pace of this project reflects our commitment to meeting the client’s expectations and delivering a state-of-the-art facility within the specified timeframe.
Click below to find out more about this project.
Roundtable Event: London’s Development Market Challenges
Key Takeaways from the Event:
Optimism for London Market: Despite challenges, London was viewed positively as a resilient and forward-thinking investment destination.
Shortage of Grade A Space: Noted a significant shortage of Grade A office space, with Grade B assets facing potential obsolescence.
Cost of Assets: The high cost of assets is identified as a major barrier hindering investors from making investment decisions or initiating projects, waiting for someone to take the jump.
Navigating Planning and Legislation: Highlighted challenges in planning processes and suggested the need for streamlining and collaboration between stakeholders.
Sustainability Agenda & Future Building Requirements: Urged a stronger focus on sustainability in development, with predictions of increased demand for sustainable Grade A sites in the next five years. Discussed evolving tenant needs, emphasizing amenities, flexibility, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations.
Uncertainty in Yields and Costs: Highlighted the need for realistic cost assessments and concerns about unpredictable yields.
Interest Rates and Market Dynamics: Interest rates play a pivotal role, and a drop is anticipated to trigger a surge in developments, putting pressure on the supply chain.
Construction Innovation: Innovation in construction is seen as crucial for unlocking early-stage development, with concerns that the industry lags behind others in developing new solutions.
One Word Video for 2024
2024 is here, and it’s never too late to share our One Word Video!
We’ve been perfecting this one for a while and we are excited to finally be able to share our thoughts on the year ahead. We have kicked off to a great start already and a huge thank you to the Colorminium team for their hard work and involvement.
Earlier this week we celebrated Pancake Day in support of the British Heart Foundation ‘Go Red for Heart Month’ campaign.
We are so close to hitting our target! – Do you think we can double it? Click this link to donate towards this worthy cause.
At Colorminium, we believe in recognizing our team’s hard work. What better way to do so than with a tasty pancake?
The Broadgate Circle: Reshaping London’s Urban Landscape
The rapid progress of Broadgate Circle is truly reshaping London’s landscape! Developed in the 1980s, this iconic destination has undergone a remarkable transformation evolving into a vibrant mixed-use hub.
As a frequently visited space, our team has witnessed first-hand the remarkable changes taking place within Broadgate Circle. With the soffits still in pristine condition and the atrium always exceeding expectations, it’s evident that this project provides the benchmark for London offices.
The clients vision was to turn Broadgate from a 5 day a week operation to a world-class 7 day a week mixed use destination and the redevelopment of 100 Liverpool Street was a central part of this. Listen to Charles Horne from British Land talk about the 100 Liverpool Street Project and how we helped turn his vision into a reality by clicking the button below.
Behind the scenes of the 127 Kensington High Street Video
Thrilled to share a sneak peek into the behind-the-scenes action at our recent video shoot showcasing the iconic 127 Kensington High Street Building.
This high quality 95,000sq ft office and retail development is situated in a prime location on Kensington High Street, and improves connectivity to the Underground station through the creation of the new retail arcade. The project involved the remodelling of the bleak 1970’s building to transform the quality of its architecture and provide an inspiring new workspace.
Subscribe to our monthly newsletter below to make sure you’re the first to see the new 127 Kensington High Street Video.
Click below to read more about this project.
Go Red for Heart Month
We are excited to share our commitment to supporting the British Heart Foundation this month as part of our Corporate Social Responsibility efforts.
The British Heart Foundation is a cardiovascular research charity in the United Kingdom. It funds medical research related to heart and circulatory diseases and their risk factors, and runs influencing work aimed at shaping public policy and raising awareness.
Our goal this year is to raise £1000 and throughout the month of February, we will be organizing a series of internal events for our staff to participate in, ranging from Pizza Friday to Wear Red to Work Day. – Stay tuned for more updates on these exciting activities by following our page.
Help us reach our target and raise money for this worthy cause by donating here.
Perspectives from our CEO: The Roger Bannister Approach
You’ve likely heard about Roger Bannister, and while some may argue that his record has been surpassed by many, why does his name still live on?
Few moments have captured the world’s imagination like Roger Bannister’s historic sub-four-minute mile on May 6, 1954. It wasn’t just about speed; it shattered the belief that running a mile in under four minutes was humanly impossible. The prevailing thought was that the human body couldn’t endure such a feat.
I hadn’t delved into his story much before, but recently someone pointed out that he studied the method and medically proved the apparent ‘medically impossible’ was, in fact, possible. This myth mirrors the mental barriers where certain goals may seem out of reach due to perceived limitations. Despite setbacks, injuries, and doubters, Bannister persisted in his pursuit of the elusive goal. His story encourages Colorminium to embrace unconventional ideas, explore new approaches, and constantly evolve to thrive in the ever-changing landscape.
Reflecting on 2023, I’ve witnessed the embodiment of Roger Bannister’s methodology in my team’s work. We embraced new projects with innovative methods, proving their success. With over 50 years of knowledge and experience, doubt was never in the equation. We focused on the small details, crucial to the bigger picture, building relationships with an eye on the long term.
As we stride into 2024, I think of how Roger Bannister’s approach and strategy to win is still so appropriate today. Applying method and challenging the ‘4-minute’ mindset, we’re exploring fresh ideas and constantly challenging the status quo. In a world marked by strife and conflict, we each need to embrace the opportunities around us and adopt a positive mindset.
Our attitude plays a pivotal role and impacts those around us. Whether it be teammates, customers, or family, maintaining a smile on our dial and being the sunshine in every situation is ingrained in our DNA and culture. Every touchpoint becomes an opportunity to spread happiness and make a positive mark on the world.
We’re ready for the next year, and whatever it brings us, and look forward to continuing our journey, bringing positive changes to the industry and embracing the challenges and successes that lie ahead.
Roscoe Price | CEO
Unveiling Sustainability and Innovation at Zak World of Façades
It was great to have some of the team present at Zak World of Façades this year in London.
The event featured enlightening discussions and talks by various speakers, covering a range of topics, strategies to minimize material consumption and carbon generation throughout the building cycle, the pivotal role of façade design in both new constructions and retrofits, and the significance of existing buildings as reservoirs of materials in the holistic approach to decarbonization.
Outlined below are the key areas we plan to enhance:
Supply Chain Expansion:
We are dedicated to expanding our supply chain, exploring innovative options such as heat mirror glazing to stay at the forefront of façade design technologies.
Sustainable Materials Focus:
We prioritize sustainable materials, actively integrating Glass and Aluminium products with greater recycled content to reduce environmental impact.
Preserving History Through Reuse:
Our commitment to history involves the reuse of historic façade materials, including stone, blending modern sustainability with a respect for architectural heritage.
Façade Strategy Comparisons:
Actively engaging in comparisons of alternative wall build-up solutions ensures that our Façade Strategy evolves with cutting-edge innovations, maintaining a commitment to sustainability and efficiency.
A big thank you to all the speakers, panellists, and moderators for contributing to an insightful and engaging conference and we look forward to the opportunity to attend again next year.
Click here to sign up to our monthly newsletter where you’ll find valuable insights, the latest news, exciting events, and much more!
The Forge, 105 Sumner Street Shortlisted by the NLA
It’s great to see The Forge shortlisted in both the Workplace category and for the Environmental Prize of the year by the NLA.
Inspired by it’s industrial past and built for the future, The Forge is the UK’s first net zero carbon commercial development which we were excited to have worked on alongside Landsec. Featuring two elegant buildings, offering best-in-class sustainable office space, it is set around a bright public courtyard in the heart of Southwark.
We look forward to hearing the results tomorrow and good luck to all the other nominees!
Steak & Chips Lunch for the Team at Colorminium!
Kicking off November on a high note at our office last Monday!
We took a break from the daily grind to celebrate our hardworking staff. We believe in recognizing and appreciating the dedication of our team, and what better way to do that than treating them to a mouth-watering lunch followed by some competitive table tennis action? The sizzling steak and crispy chips had everyone’s taste buds dancing, earning a special shoutout from David Raffaelli, who declared the chips as nothing short of “banging”!
Here’s to fostering a collaborative and vibrant workplace culture!
Are you interested in becoming apart of our awesome team? – Click here to find our current vacancies.
In the Spotlight: Wadham College’s BCI Award Victory
We are so pleased to see Wadham College win this year’s BCI Award for Social Infrastructure Project of the Year.
The finished building is a centrepiece on the campus and it is a further testament to the benefits of early engagement.
Being involved from a very early stage to assist in costing the façade scheme as it transitioned through the design stages, enabled us to concurrently advise of any challenges with the delivery of the design from our wealth of experience.
Click this link to read more about this project For details on other award winners, explore here.
The Advanced Building Skins Conference October 2023
Our team had the opportunity to attend in the Advanced Building Skins Conference in Switzerland!
This year’s conference delved into crucial topics shaping the future of building design, including:
Fire Safety of Façades
Glass for Sustainable Construction
Integrating Solar Technologies into the Building Skin
Innovative Products and Technologies for Building Skins
Models, Tools, and Simulations for Sustainable Buildings
Engaging in conferences like these is vital for our company to stay at the forefront of facade technology. It allows us to not only stay informed about the latest advancements but also to network with esteemed professionals, including architects, engineers, and representatives from the construction industry.
Thanks to all the speakers, panellists and moderators for making the event a very insightful and interesting conference.
Insights from Bisnow’s UK Real Estate Outlook 2023
One recurring theme throughout the event was the recognition of a changing environment, marked by the looming US and UK elections in the coming year. This political uncertainty was a recurring concern, contributing to the nervousness within the industry.
A pivotal question that emerged was the strategic shift from traditional, less sustainable (“brown”) assets to more environmentally responsible (“green”) ones. The focus on sustainability and ecological considerations emerged as a significant driver of decision-making in the industry.
A good takeaway from the event was the idea that each asset has a unique journey and character. It was emphasized that neighbouring properties could perform very differently, underlining the need for bespoke strategies tailored to each asset.
Amidst these challenges, of political unease and fluctuating interest rates, the UK was praised for its USPs in the realm of real estate. Notably, the competitive asset acquisition costs and the strong common law framework stood out as strengths in an uncertain landscape.
In conclusion, Bisnow’s Real Estate Outlook event provided valuable insights into the nature of the UK real estate market in 2023. It emphasized the need for adaptability, sustainability, and the crafting of bespoke strategies for each asset to navigate the ever-evolving real estate landscape effectively.
Click here to sign up to our monthly newsletter where you’ll find valuable insights, the latest news, exciting events, and much more!
Our journey to ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001 Certification
We are pleased to have achieved a significant milestone by obtaining ISO 9001, 14001 and 45001 recertification!
We strongly believe in holding ourselves to a high standard when it comes to Health & Safety, Quality, and Environmental practices and systems. This opens up opportunities for us to build stronger, more confident, partnerships by following industry best practice.
Completion of RIU Hotel
This building, formerly consisting of office and retail space underwent a major refurbishment during the 1990s and has now been further transformed into RIU Hotels & Resorts first hotel in the UK. Situated at 1 Neathouse Place, adjacent to Victoria Station, the new hotel will offer 4-star accommodation with 435 rooms complemented by a bar, restaurant, fitness facilities and foyer space.
With the project now complete, this spectacular hotel fulfils the client’s vision to provide a hotel very close to the places of cultural and tourist interest, as well as giving its customers spectacular views from open air terraces.
Click here to find out more about our work on this project.
The History Behind The Minories Hotel Makeover
In the heart of the medieval City of London, Aldgate thrived as one of its busiest gates, a bustling entryway to a city steeped in history. But Aldgate’s story didn’t end there. Over time, it transformed from a notorious hub of slums and the haunting tales of Jack the Ripper to become a vibrant cornerstone of London’s financial and insurance district.
The Minories building was formerly occupied by Aon Insurance and served as their headquarters until 2002, when the buildings fell out of use. The client’s vision was to transform and recycle the existing façade to meet the demands of a contemporary hotel taking inspiration from the East End neighbourhood it is situated in.
The original façade of the building featured load-bearing concrete fins, which had to be accommodated by installing a new weathering line, including fire-breaks, ahead of the new unitised installation.
The new skin is made up of 1,900 aluminium fins that clad the existing pre-cast frame and bridge between the glazing. These are based on just three modules that are rotated and repeated to create a three-dimensional pattern that rises rhythmically to the upper floors to dramatic effect. Seven different fin shapes have been used to compose a diagrid pattern across the elevations and the use of different colours of each fin side creates the impression of light and shade even on the north façade.
Having set a goal to cut its environmental footprint by 50% by 2030, the project accomplishes energy savings via the integration of solar panels and a green roof, effectively retaining heat within the property without requiring extra energy consumption. This development, centred on sustainability, serves as a prime illustration of adaptive repurposing and carbon reduction.
Click here to sign up to our monthly newsletter where you’ll find valuable insights, the latest news, exciting events, and much more!
St Pancras Campus Progress Update
It’s great to see St Pancras Campus progressing at a rapid pace, with levels 1-4 nearing completion, and all the glass on the ground floor installed.
This development will transform an underutilised industrial estate that sits on a 1.2 acre self-contained ‘island’ block near St Pancras Hospital, with a main office building and two separate blocks of flats.
Visit our portfolio to see more projects like these.
Click here to sign up to our monthly newsletter where you’ll find valuable insights, the latest news, exciting events, and much more!
Designed by Guy Hollaway, an award-winning architect and a parent at Benenden, the new 750-seat concert hall and music hall complement the distinctive legacy of the school and meet the growing needs of the community.
We eagerly anticipate the results on November 22, 2023.
Last week, two members of our office-based team – Julia Temple and Jemima Watney – had the opportunity to visit some of our project sites. These visits included projects like TBC.London and Space House, alongside other ongoing projects. This represented an excellent chance to gain insights into the activities on-site. We firmly believe that it’s essential for our staff to visit these projects as it aids in comprehending the goals we’re working towards. This also enhances collaboration across our entire company, helping us work better together by generating ideas for improving site efficiency and job delivery.
Kudos to the site team for graciously showing them around! Click here to visit our portfolio.
Space House Progress Update
The sensitive refurbishment of Seaforth Land’s Space House is reaching its final stages, and it’s great to see the installation of the substantial 1.5-ton large-format frameless glass panels on the ground floor.
The opportunity to work on this stunning landmark building is exciting, collaborating with Seaforth, BAM UK & Ireland and Squire and Partners has been a pleasure in optimising the scheme and turning the vision into reality.
Visit our portfolio to see more projects like these.
Click here to sign up to our monthly newsletter where you’ll find valuable insights, the latest news, exciting events, and much more!
Your Next Career Chapter with Colorminium
Are you ready to take the next step in your career journey?
At Colorminium, our people are our most important asset. We welcome talent from all professional and personal backgrounds, seeking those who share our passion and have a desire to learn, evolve, and be the change they want to see in the world.
Explore our current job openings and discover the roles that resonate with your expertise and aspirations by clicking the link below.
Remember to follow our LinkedIn page to stay updated on company news, cultural insights, and more.
We’re here to assist you with your application, so feel free to get in touch with one of our experts today at careers@colorminium.com.
