New HQ shows structural and aesthetic versatility

Article Abstract:

Tarmac Precast Concrete took over the contract to build Scottish Widow's Fund and Life Assurance Society's new head office in Edinburgh, Scotland, when it bought Costain Dow Mac. Tarmac had to provide a total precast concrete package. The structure comprises an underground car park and three interlinked buildings of between five and eight storeys, mainly composed of precast concrete components. A Tarmac factory, which had been accustomed to producing grey concrete products, had to produce exposed columns and beams, hollowcore flooring and cladding panels to a high specification.

Evaluation, Insurance industry, Buildings and facilities, Concrete construction, Scottish Widow's Fund and Life Assurance Society, Precast concrete construction, Tarmac Precast Concrete

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Walling materials: more than just a pretty face

Article Abstract:

Housing developers in the UK are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of ensuring that their developments blend in with the colour, scale and texture of local traditional materials. They must also use materials which meet the thermal and structural requirements of the Building Regulations and are not too expensive. Natural stone is rarely used, as it is extremely expensive, and small-scale traditional walling materials such as flint and cobbles can create problems when attempting to build cavity walls.

Materials, Walls

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Company focus: Lignacite Ltd

Article Abstract:

Lignacite Ltd has been producing concrete blocks at Brandon in Suffolk, England, since 1947. The company is a family firm, now run by Michael de Lotbiniere, son of the founder. The blocks, which consist of a patented mixture including cement, sand and wood, were originally handmade, but the process is now automated. The company now produces blocks in a range of densities and finishes, and it started making architectural facing masonry in 1991.

Company Profile, Concrete blocks, Lignacite Ltd.

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