KwikHEAT - Practical Facilities Management

G-U unveils sleekdoor systemGretsch–Unitas hasunveiled a sleek, newdoor system that combinesnot only accessibility andflexibility, but also cuttingedge design and technology.The G-U HS Lift and Slide DoorSystem is the latest edition to the UKmarket leader’s hardware range and isthe perfect solution for rooms eitherrequiring a lot of natural light orspaces proffering landscape views.Easy to operate, the system allowschangeable use as a door and awindow. The simple handle rotationgently lifts the door, allowing the largeglass panels to slide in a smoothrolling action along the system’s fittedrunner, creating a wall of movingglass. The HS Lift and Slide DoorSystem offers maximum accessibilityand despite its ultra lightmanoeuvrability, the system is robustenough to carry weight loadings of upto 250kg.Stephanie Wright, marketing managerof Gretsch–Unitas, is confident thatthe lift and slide door system willprove a big hit with customers. Shecomments: “Customers like multifunctional, quality products and I amconfident that G-U’s HS lift and slidedoor system will prove a popularchoice.”Contract interiors specialistGradus has supplied and fitteda bespoke fabrics package for HullUniversity, helping to transform itsvisitor accommodation into a highstandard and conveniently locatedguesthouse and, at the same time,providing an additional source ofincome for the University.With nearly 20,000 students and over 1000staff, the University has recently unveiled itsfive-year Strategic Plan, which involves a£30million investment in site enhancements,including accommodation facilities. Regularlyused as a conference venue, the Universitywas keen to raise the standard of its visitoraccommodation.Two 1930s semi-detached properties, alreadyin the University’s property portfolio, havebeen converted into a modern 8-bedroomguesthouse, featuring flat-screen televisionsand internet access, to provide competitivelypriced, comfortable accommodation for PhDstudents, conference delegates and students’parents.Gradus delivered a tailored fabrics package for thenew guesthouse, which included curtains, nets,tracks and blinds throughout the bedrooms, ensuitesand shared living areas, providing theUniversity Estates Office with a complete solution.Gradus’ Strand design was printed on Eclipse dimDesigned for inclusion in PVCU,timber and aluminium systems, G-U’sHS lift and slide system willaesthetically fit in any building settingand its FerGuard silver finish offersoverall visual appeal.Stephanie added: “This system isincredibly flexible, not only in terms ofits functionality and design but also itsadaptability. For example, it can easilybe fitted with an electronic drivesystem; an addition that willundoubtedly add extra convenience inthe right setting.“With the addition of such products toour extensive range we are confidentthat we will continue to offer ourcustomers what our competitors cannot; superior products that offerquality, security and reliability.”Reader reply No: 111115interiorsGradus transform accommodationto boost University incomeout curtain fabric to create a calmingambience in the guest rooms. Curved trackswere used in the bow windows allowing forthe property’s period features and leadweightednets were selected to provide extraprivacy for occupants.Paul Tennison, the Building Surveyorresponsible for the refurbishment works atHull University Facilities Directorate said:“We’ve worked with Gradus Fabrics beforeso we knew they could provide a highstandard of product. We were delightedwhen we found out they also supply blindsand tracking so that they could offer us acomplete package which made life a loteasier for us. The result is a year round,home away from home feel with all thecomfort and style you would expect from ahotel.”The Strand design is a semi-plain texture,available in a choice of 15 colourwaysincluding a striking Damson, fresh Mint anda natural Corn shade and is one of severalfabrics ranges available from Gradus foreducational applications, all of which meetthe required flammability and durability standards forthe contract market.Reader Reply No: 111056Food for flying thoughtInviron, the leading buildingservices and facilitiesmanagement provider, hastransformed unused officespace at RAF Brize Nortoninto a modern and wellequippedcafé.The Oasis Café, which was officiallyhanded over to RAF Welfare andSalvation Army volunteers at the endof January, is a welcome addition tothe base. It is open to all personnel,although it is envisaged the café willprimarily be used by trainees at theDefence Movements and ParachuteTraining School, Junior Ranks and asa meeting place for families.Inviron’s transformation of the formeroffice block included removing walls,replacing flooring, refurbishment anddecoration of the interior and exterior,as well as designing and installing anew kitchen and serving counter.Richard Cordier, Inviron’s projectmanager, said: “This building hasbeen completely refurbished and wehope the Welfare Team and SalvationArmy volunteers, who will be runningthe Café, are pleased with both ourand the DCRE Team’s efforts. Wehave provided a fresh, modern andcomfortable space for the young RAFtrainees to use during their leisuretime and for the families of ourservicemen and women to meet.”Flt Lt Liz Brassington, Officer InCharge (OIC), RAF Brize Norton,commented: “Inviron’s projectmanager, Richard Cordier, galvanisedthe cafe build and I have hadextremely high levels of confidence inthe end result and Inviron. He hasalways assisted when required andhas helped produce an excellent cafethat will be a treasured welfare facilityat Brize Norton. RR No: 11111451