News Historic Properties Architectural Timeline Project Focus Design Special Limestone, Wine and Our Buildings

PROJECT MAGAZINE 2016

NEWS HISTORIC PROPERTIES ARCHITECTURAL TIMELINE PROJECT FOCUS DESIGN SPECIAL LIMESTONE, WINE AND OUR BUILDINGS

Specialists in stonework, faience & restoration since 1855

WELCOME Q&A t is hard to believe that the past year has gone by so quickly, ANTONIO BUFFA and with it, our anniversary year! It has certainly been a year of surprises, not least in the results of Brexit, which have rocked parts of the industry. Despite the “rollercoaster” media reports on the property market, Szerelmey has not yet felt the effects of it, I and long may this continue. We have recently expanded so there are a number of “new” faces in the office, and are in the final stages of phase one of our office refurbishment. In the spirit of change, we have been updating and improving our website, which is an ongoing process for us, and will be launching our “walking tours” and “CPD” pages. We are shaking things up a bit in this Finesse and have changed the format slightly to include an expanded “news” page and more pages for design and technology pieces. In addition to our regular features we will be taking a step back in time to look at the history of London’s architecture through buildings we have worked on, and take a light-hearted look at the relationship between our buildings, limestone and wine!

Antonio, you have had a really You mention relationships, but surely CONTENTS interesting career path that has landed as Estimating Director, you would you here as our Estimating Director. consider projects are won on price? 02 - NEWS Can you tell us briefly a bit about it? Price of course is a huge and influential - RESTORATION AND 04 I suppose it is slightly unusual! I factor in the award of any project. HERITAGE graduated as a neuroscientist and spent However, having strong, trust- 08 - ARCHITECTURAL HISTORY a couple of years doing research in based relationships with clients and OF LONDON THROUGH that field before deciding on a change subcontractors is fundamentally OUR BUILDINGS of career. In the early 1990s I took up important. One of Szerelmey’s real stonemasonry and learnt on the tools, strengths is the network of really solid 10 - NEW BUILD PROJECT developing a real passion for stone and relationships the company has built up FOCUS materials. From there I moved into the across the industry. - DESIGN AND management, contracts and estimating 14 How do you foresee the market in the TECHNOLOGY side of the business before joining Szerelmey in 2008. next couple of years and do you think BUILDING AND RESTORING OUR NATION’S 14 - CHOOSING THE RIGHT it will be effected by us leaving the STONE Neuroscience? That is unusual! Has EU? your early training impacted on your HERITAGE THROUGH CRAFTSMANSHIP AND TECHNOLOGY As an estimator, one has to do an 15 - SLIPPERY WHEN WET current role at all? element of crystal ball gazing and try to 16 - COMPLEX STONE I suppose in a small way. Much of my peer into the future … but on the Brexit CLADDING neuroscience involved understanding issue I really don’t know, it certainly 17 - MOVEMENT IN FACADES how people think and react. So much creates a climate of uncertainty which of our business is about relationships makes it difficult to plan or even conduct 18 - SPOTLIGHT ON and trust between client and contractor business especially when a good chunk EXTERNALS | INTERNALS | SZERELMEY GB or subcontractor, and I expect my early of materials we use comes from Europe HARD LANDSCAPING | RESTORATION 19 - SPOTLIGHT ON career has helped in the forging of and are paid in Euros. As a foreigner I SZERELMEY SERVICES strong relationships. feel tempted to say to the Brits “make your mind up, stop moaning about it | FAIENCE 20 - LIMESTONE AND WINE and let’s get on with it!”

SZERELMEY | FINESSE MAGAZINE 1

CPD RIBA ACCREDITATION We now have four CPDs accredited with RIBA, which means that attending them earns you 2 points. In addition, we have produced what we believe is the first accredited Faience CPD, to take account of the market interest in this versatile material. Please contact the office for more information or to make a booking.

LINCOLN’S INN SZERELMEY RUNNING CLUB

PROJECTS WALKING A LITTLE BIT RED FACES WO N TOURS OF EVERYTHING You might perhaps have noticed a few red faces puffing along Embankment One of our recently completed projects Szerelmey are delighted to have been We have been taking clients on tours at lunch time. This is our newly formed

NEWS NEWS is 30 Broadwick Street, a new office awarded the contract for internal of our buildings around London on an Running Club, with a surprisingly and retail development situated in stonework on Phase 1 of Chelsea ad hoc basis for many years. It is, after WEBSITE enthusiastic membership and our own Barracks. This is a very large and multi- all, the easiest way to understand what the heart of Soho and owned by Our website is still evolving! We are fully branded tops. If any companies phased development, and it is great different types of stone look like in situ. Great Portland Estates. The project in the process of adding several new would like to join us for a group run to be part of it. It is certainly a project Now we have organised our tours a bit is particularly interesting due to the pages for our clients, including one on after work in Battersea or Hyde Park, do making itself known around the stone more and are adding a new page to different materials used on the facades: our very successful CPDs in addition to contact the office in London. suppliers of Europe too – every time we our website with further details. Please these include Portland stone, faience, the new Walking Tours page and a new visit a supplier, we seem to see pieces contact the office if you have a specific glazed brick and Roman brick. Our People page by the end of the year. of Chelsea in fabrication! project/stone in mind and would like to AWARDS Coaxing people out of the office to have discuss a tour. Another project particularly important their photographs taken for this page is We are delighted that our entry for A proving harder than we thought …! 3 House for Essex in the Architectural to us is the internal stonework package 0 Review International House Awards, at the Royal Opera House, Covent THE COURTHOUSE B SZERELMEY HQ R won Highly Commended, coming Garden. We undertook the extensive HORSEFERRY ROAD O external stonework in the 1990s A second to the inspired Cosmic, Japan D by UID Architects. including installing the Piazza, arcade W

and facades and have a real kinship I

C We have also been shortlisted (for the

with this historic building. The new K second time in three years) for the

work, which began for us in August, will S T Building Awards, Specialist Contractor

involve the use of Crema Marfil stone R

E of the Year, so we all have our fingers

sourced from Spain. E T crossed. The winner will be announced A faience project we will be starting on in November. site with soon is at Rathbone Square. This will be a complex design and installation process with jade-green faience cladding to two long vaulted NEW SOFTWARE passageways. More details on p13. Our Design Department, which Our Restoration team have begun incidentally welcomes some new faces important work at the magnificent this year, is fully conversant in BIM Lincoln’s Inn, parts of which date back modelling and employs it on most to the 16th century, and will be focusing projects. In addition to our traditional their attention on two external stone FACE LIFT software packages (and even using staircases and the East and South walls. Just like the cobbler’s children, we a pencil and paper) we now also use Szerelmey GB have just won the external have finally got round to restoring the BuildDesk, a suite of programmes that stonework and restoration package to exterior of our offices in Vauxhall – but allow us to make calculations to meet create the new library and study centre it has been worth the wait. The building the energy efficiency needs of building at St John’s College, Oxford. This is one has been repaired, cleaned, repainted regulations. more project to add to our “stable” of and has new signage. Inside we have Oxford projects. remodelled our ground floor area, opening up the ground floor to create more light and space. Phase 2 of the work will commence in 2017.

SZERELMEY | FINESSE MAGAZINE 3 zerelmey was originally THE PROJECT established as a restoration HISTORIC company, specialising in CLIENT – THE CROWN ESTATE this for many years before MAIN CONTRACTOR – SZERELMEY RESTORATION branching into new build PROPERTIES S stone and faience work in the Acting as Principal Contractor Szerelmey 1970s. Restoration remains a key part Restoration undertook extensive repair, 70-72 JERMYN STREET of the business and lies at the heart of restoration and refurbishment work to this what we do. The Restoration team is led prestigious property, with all work carried “THANK YOU FOR YOUR out while the building remained in full HARD WORK ON THIS by industry professional Mark Chivers public use. The repair package involved PROJECT. PLEASE THANK and his team of heritage restorers THE SITE TEAM, ESPECIALLY many of whom have come through our widespread roof works including large THE CLEANING AND apprenticeship programme. areas of replacement slates, leadwork, RESTORATION TEAM AT structural roof works to the underlying SZERELMEY, WHO HAVE The team has recently completed supports and lantern light replacements. WORKED SO HARD TO GET extensive restoration work to 70-72 THIS PROJECT THROUGH TO Jermyn Street, acting as Principal All the slates were removed and new COMPLETION.” Contractor and carrying out the felt and battens fixed in place. The roofs complex programme of works while the were then re-slated using a blend of the SOPHIE WILLETTS existing and new tiles with the existing SENIOR BUILDING SURVEYOR building remained in full public use. tiles positioned to the most visible area. The Grade II listed building sits on the TUFFIN FERRABY TAYLOR LLP corner of Jermyn Street and Bury Street in one of London’s most historic areas developed by, and named after, Henry Jermyn, Earl of St Albans. Work began in 1661 at St James’s Square (home to Szerelmey project 7-8 St James’s Square) and included the surrounding streets. Jermyn St was originally largely residential, unlike today, and saw such luminaries as Sir Isaac Newton, William Gladstone, W M Thackeray and Sir John Churchill amongst its residents. 70-72 Jermyn Street was designed by architect Reginald Morphew with sculptural features above the main entrance by Gilbert Seale. Morphew’s original designs were described as “quaint in character but rather bald” by the Crown Surveyor, as a result of which he added extra ornament and detail. This history of the buildings we work on and the materials used are extremely important to us and form an integral part of our approach to their restoration. Some heritage properties Our specialist restorers carried out we work on have an extremely fragile in situ repairs to damaged areas of building fabric, which must be treated historic Portland stone including with enormous care. decorative column capitals and dentils.

All chimney stacks were cleaned, surveyed, repaired and repointed where necessary.

The historic facades were thoroughly cleaned. BEFORE AFTER BEFORE AFTER CLEANING CLEANING RESTORATION AND HERITAGE AND HERITAGE RESTORATION

SZERELMEY | FINESSE MAGAZINE 5 FURNIVAL HOUSE CLIENT – PRIVATE MAIN CONTRACTOR – ELLMER CONSTRUCTION

urnival House is a Grade II The grand, free-standing property building had been subjected to poor listed property in Highgate has been converted into 15 residential cleaning methods historically, which with a really interesting apartments with the addition of a had also impacted on the facades. history. The house was penthouse and two basement levels, Once the survey had been undertaken built between 1916-1919 to with planning achieved through close and all defects marked up on detailed F provide accommodation collaboration with Conservation Officers drawings, the team was able to carry for the female staff who worked for the and English Heritage. The imposing out full repairs to the brickwork and Prudential Assurance Company. It was front façade features a circular stone terracotta. This included both in situ designed by the relatively unknown portico with ionic columns and a two repairs and replacements with like-for- architect Joseph Pitt (b. 1871) and storey canted bay window, capped with like, matching bricks and terracotta to commissioned by A C Thompson who a semi-circular pediment that features the existing. Extensive repointing was worked for Prudential from 1872 to 1928, the Prudential Company crest. The also carried out using lime mortar. In becoming first the General Manager, facades are all noted for their rubbed addition extensive repair work was and then Chairman. Thompson was red brick dressings, stone band, cornice made to all stone elements, with new known for his progressive approach and parapet. stone balustrades, and cladding to the towards the welfare of his staff with ground floor elevation. The Szerelmey Restoration team the Prudential at the forefront of social were contracted to carry out a full welfare. The domestic staff housed at repair and restoration package to the Furnival House served the company’s external facades. First the envelope was huge headquarters housed in the thoroughly cleaned using water and Alfred Waterhouse designed Holborn JOS methods, which allowed for close building. Furnival House housed the examination of the building’s fabric and Prudential staff until the 1930s, when a full survey of defects on the brickwork it is believed to have been taken over and terracotta. Unfortunately the by the Whittington Hospital to provide accommodation for their nurses. LONDON’S

“ … WE HAVE BEEN DELIGHTED WITH SZERELMEY’S ATTITUDE, ARCHITECTURAL OUTLOOK AND HISTORIC CAPABILITIES AND LOOK FORWARD TO WORKING PROPERTIES WITH THEM AGAIN IN THE HISTORY NEAR FUTURE.” N o 6 PALACE GATE CARL CLASH CONSTRUCTION MANAGER THROUGH SZERELMEY BUILDINGS CLIENT – THE CROWN ESTATE ELLMER MAIN CONTRACTOR – SZERELMEY RESTORATION

o 6, Palace Gate is a Grade It was later sold to William Gillian who II listed detached, stone commissioned architect Sir William fronted property, which Emerson to redecorate the interior, our Restoration team have much of which is documented through recently restored, cleaned a series of photographs taken in 1891. and repaired whilst the N No 6 is a three storey stone building building remained fully occupied. The with a basement and roof storey, five house was built between 1873-76 by the windows wide. The central doorway has building firm and developers W. Cubitt & a Doric porch with a two storey canted Co, who were responsible for delivering bay to the right and segmental headed a number of the houses along the windows. Following a full dilapidation street. Although the architect for No 6 report, our team carried out extensive is not known, the builders were highly cleaning to the exterior stone and respected and their work described by brickwork using nebulous and Doff The Builder as, “ … the materials and methods. Isolated in situ stone repairs workmanship throughout are the best were made to the Portland stone of their kind.” Incidentally, The Builder elements including the stone balustrade magazine, which was established in to the front of the building which has 1843, is the UK’s oldest B2B magazine, suffered heavy damage. Other works and is now known as Building. included installing new lead coverings The row of houses was most famous to the main cornice, new wrought for No 2, which was built in 1873 for the iron gates to the side passageways celebrated artist Sir John Everett Millais. and extensive repair work to the front No 6 was built for the retired Crimean entrance steps. War Veteran Colonel AWH Meyrick, who sold it to the Hon. John Twisleton- SZERELMEY | FINESSE MAGAZINE 7 Wykeham-Fiennes before he lived in it. THE BEGINNING OF THE NEW CITY

THE STUART PERIOD ENGLISH BAROQUE GEORGIAN PERIOD GOTHIC REVIVAL NEOCLASSICISM LATE NEOCLASSICAL BEAUX VICTORIAN PERIOD EDWARDIAN PERIOD LONDON’S FIRST ART NOUVEAU ART DECO MODERN PERIOD BRUTALISM CONTEMPORARY 1603-1714 C.1660-1710 1714-1830 1740-1870 18TH-20TH CENTURY ARTS – AMERICAN STYLE 1837-1901 1901-1914 UNDERGROUND STATIONS 1890s -1910s 1910-1940s 1945-PRESENT 1950s -70s

Under the rule of the House of Stuarts, In 1666 a fire started in the King’s The Georgian period defined by the Running in parallel with the Georgian Robert Adam (1728-92) was one of In 1929 Bush House was declared This period was named after Queen After the eclectic eccentricities of It was during the Victorian Period that Unlike many other architectural styles Taking Art Nouveau as one of its major The decades following the end of Still a controversial style, Brutalism in Szerelmey have been able to facilitate British architecture saw the design bakery on Pudding Lane, and raged rule of the “four Georges”, like all love of all things classical, was a the leading neoclassical architects of “the most expensive building in the Victoria, and saw a number of different the different architectural styles the London Underground came into that looked to the past for inspiration, influences, Art Deco style emerged WWII to the present have seen an the UK was influenced by architects in almost two hundred years worth of of monumental country houses through the city for four days. The periods, saw a number of architectural rekindling of the English interest in the period and developed a unified world” reflecting its construction styles emerge, many of them eclectic of Queen Victoria’s long reign, the being, although it was not termed Art Nouveau represented a completely in the 1920s and remained popular eclectic mix of architectural styles, France like Le Corbusier (from the late changing architectural styles, and surpassing those of the Elizabethans Great Fire, as it was known, destroyed styles including Palladianism and medieval art and design, seen to style between the exterior, interior costs of approximately $10 million. and extravagant, alongside great short Edwardian Period ushered in “underground” until 1908. The first new approach. The style was made until the 1940s. Like Art Nouveau, Art which represent a rejection of historic 1940s). The term was first used here restore and conserve London’s older in grandeur, ornamentation and scale. almost every civic building in the city, Neoclassicism. Buildings of this impressive effect in the Houses of and objects within a property. His The building was commissioned advances in technology and industry. a new approach. The architecture line was the Metropolitan which was most famous by Charles Rennie Deco represented an encompassing influence at one end of the scale and in the early 1950s and describes large buildings, whilst building her new Classicism slowly began to make its along with around 13,000 residences, period are easily recognisable and Parliament, designed by Sir Charles most famous projects in London are by American businessman Irving of domestic residences in particular opened in 1863 between Paddington Mackintosh in Scotland. In London the style through architecture to interiors, an adaptation of them at the other. scale buildings of primarily unfinished ones, in two very clear ways. Firstly way to England from Italy, particularly almost all of which were timber framed represented an embracement of Barry (1795-1860) in 1836 and built Kenwood House, Syon House and T Bush and planned to be an all changed, with houses opening up and Farringdon. As the network iconic Michelin House, also known as artefacts, furniture, art, design and or roughly finished concrete, we stay at the forefront of innovation seen in the work of Inigo Jones, with wattle and daub walls; by the time classical tenets and rejection of all between 1837-60. The style was Osterley Park, in addition to Fitzroy encompassing trade centre including and becoming lighter and airier with grew it gave rise to a large number Bibendum, represents a blend of Art fashion. It is considered one of the first characterised by massive stacked in terms of our technology and how although did not take hold properly it was stopped only 1/5th of London things Baroque. It was a period that manifested most expressively by Square (late 18th century). The Grade galleries, shops and accommodation. greater use of pattern through the of stations, and a particular style of Nouveau and proto-Art Deco Styles. truly “modern” styles. An industrial shapes and an uncompromising we can accommodate contemporary until the following century. The work was left standing with the Tower of marked the end of the House of Stuart Augustus Pugin (1812-52), who I listed No 6 Fitzroy Square is now He enlisted American architect interiors. Generally architecture of station architecture primarily defined The building was commissioned by the form of the architectural style can be approach to displaying the building designs using ancient materials of Sir Christopher Wren, with his London, (1080s), Westminster Abbey as the House of Hanover succeeded became famous for the many home to the Georgian Society, and Harvey W Corbett who designed the this short period was less cluttered by its use of faience tiling in ox-blood Michelin Tyre Company as their first seen in Turbine Hall A of Battersea structures. Famous examples include like stone and faience. This ensures classical proportions and Gothic (1245) and Banqueting House (1622) to the British throne. An extension of churches he designed, in addition to had its interiors extensively restored building along neoclassical lines with and ostentatiously ornate, with red, green and white, use of arches British headquarters in 1909 and was Power Station, which is Grade II*. This the South Bank Centre, Trellick Tower that we can deliver buildings “of ideals was of particular influence and the only large buildings of note. the Georgian Period was the Regency the interior design of the Houses of by Szerelmey. flamboyant and American Beaux the exception of a few “Edwardian and moulded detailing. The designs designed by Francois Espinasse, an part of the station was built between and the South Bank Tower, formerly the moment”. Secondly, we actively seen across the City of London. Period falling loosely between 1795- Parliament. Art-style details; the central block Baroque” style buildings. of architect Leslie Green (1875-1908) employee of the company. Szerelmey 1929-35 and features an impressive King’s Reach Tower. The latter was protect and promote heritage, Sir Christopher Wren (1632-1723) was During the 18th and 19th century the 1837 and named after the Prince of the building was opened in 1925. became synonymous with stations of have undertaken several phases of “control room” in cohesive Art Deco designed in 1972 by Richard Seifert, restoration and conservation skills to key in the 17th century rebuilding Whilst the design for the new concept of public museums took Regent who ruled while his father The BBC World Service moved into this period, with over 40 attributed restoration work to this Grade II listed style with a decorated glass ceiling. but has recently undergone extensive enable our specialist teams to work on of London. He proposed an entire government building was a success, hold with the opening of the British George III was ill between 1811-1820. the building in 1941 and remained to him. Szerelmey has, over the years, building, which is clad in hand made Africa House on Kingsway, which is remodelling and refurbishment, city plan, which was rejected, and the choice of stone was less so. Museum in London, designed by Sir the nation’s fragile buildings. On the King’s death the Prince Regent there until 2012. Szerelmey carried restored a large number of stations faience tiles. a Grade II listed building, is another carried out by Szerelmey, and the went on to design the replacement After some research involving Barry, Robert Smirke in 1823, and the Louvre was crowned George IV. out extensive restoration, repair and including the award winning South example of Art Deco architecture that addition of a number of new storeys. in Paris. Although Smirke worked ROYAL COLLEGE OF MUSIC St Paul’s Cathedral in addition to a stone mason and two geologists, cleaning throughout the interior of Kensington, Great Portland Street, Szerelmey has restored. We cleaned on private buildings in the Gothic 51 other churches. Wren’s presence Anstone stone was chosen, primarily the listed building covering all 10 Edgware Road, Lambeth North, the exterior of this historic retained Revival style, his public commissions, K in London remains omnipotent. St due to its low cost and the quantity VICTORIAN ROMANESQUE I storeys and the three different blocks. Hammersmith and many more. façade and carried out extensive work N Paul’s Cathedral took around 35 years 2 available. The stone did not including the British Museum were G 8 to the stunning Art Deco inspired to complete to his designs, and is withstand London pollution well neoclassical in style. Szerelmey has 19TH CENTURY S - interior entrance hall. G primarily built from Portland stone. 2 and had already started to decay by been involved in several phases of It is an eclectic mix of styles, largely 9 1849 – before the building work had work including the design, supply A One of the great buildings reflecting T S a restrained form of English Baroque even finished. In 1855, Col Nicholas and installation of Portland stone E

T this style is the Grade I listed Natural

that was taken up by Vanbrugh and Szerelmey, founder of the Company, fins to the exterior and widespread H

G History Museum, aptly described as O

Hawksmoor in the 18th century, E developed a restoration technique internal remodelling works. a “cathedral to nature”. The original U

but with elements of Gothic and for the beleaguered building, but designs were made by Francis Fowke S

R Neoclassicism remained popular E Classicism. The dome, which still G a change of government stopped in the capital right through to the in 1864, but he unfortunately died

dominates the London skyline is E proceedings. Over one hundred years the same year, and the little known

20th century, overlapping with a

composed of three shells, the outer S later, in 1978, Szerelmey carried out T number of other architectural styles. architect Alfred Waterhouse took the dome, a concealed brick dome for extensive cleaning and restoration Victoria House in Bloomsbury is a project on. The Victorian Period could MICHELIN HOUSE structural support and the inner dome work to the entire river facing façade good example of late neoclassical also be referred to as the Terracotta – it was the first of its kind. Szerelmey of the Grade I listed building. architecture. This commercial Period, since the material enjoyed carried out an extensive programme building was designed by Charles a widespread revival, as it is again of restoration work on the dome William Long in 1926 for the Liverpool today. Waterhouse used terracotta in 1961/62. A British Pathe film of Victoria Insurance Company. The for the entire building, attracted the work demonstrates just how far H O interior of the Grade II listed building by the material’s resistance to the health and safety has come on in the U climate, the ease with which it could S has remained virtually unchanged. intervening years. E Szerelmey carried out two phases be cleaned and its fire resistance. The S building is famous for the decorative of extensive cleaning, restoration O terracotta detailing of extinct and

F and refurbishment to the building’s

living animals, and vast cathedral-like

P external facades and interiors. A Hintze Hall. Szerelmey has carried

R out several restoration packages at

I the museum including, most recently,

M specialist works to the magnificent

E internal terracotta and repairs to the SOUTH KENSINGTON

N UNDERGROUND STATION T mosaic tesserae flooring.

G R E SOUTH BANK TOWER A

BURLINGTON ARCADE P O (REGENCY)

R T

L AFRICA HOUSE

S 30 BROADWICK ST T

O VICTORIA HOUSE BUSH HOUSE N

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM ST PAUL’S CATHEDRAL NOVA 5, VICTORIA ova 5 is a 14 storey high, mixed used development incorporating Bowers Whitbed Portland stone external PROJECT TECHNICAL ASPECTS cladding. The north and south ends of the building feature 8 storey high “flying walls” which cantilever from the building façade with a “weightless” appearance. FOCUS CLIENT – LAND SECURITIES MAIN CONTRACTOR – MACE N KINGS GATE HOUSE, PROJECT ARCHITECT – FLANAGAN LAWRENCE 5-A VICTORIA CONCEPT ARCHITECT– BENSON AND FORSYTH TECHNICAL ASPECTS

CLIENT – LAND SECURITIES MAIN CONTRACTOR – LEND LEASE PROJECT ARCHITECT – LYNCH ARCHITECTS CHALLENGES ings Gate House is a 13 Simply put, the problem was hanging storey high residential two massive stone and steel structures block featuring 3,000 off the side of a building; each flying wall square metres of Jura weighs 75 tonnes, being 10 tonnes of steel cladding including 234 and 65 tonnes of stone. They measure 8 K stone columns offset floor storeys high x 6m deep x 300mm wide. on floor on the street-facing south The design is such that each wall has the façade. The columns are supported on vertical load supported at one eccentric precast concrete lintels and weigh 800 point located at level 2 with restraints back kilos each, measuring 3m x 600mm x limited to every other floor and the top. 150mm. The building also incorporated The design dictated the internal framework the use of SIP panels, which are structural be just 100mm wide, in addition the stone s one of the oldest established insulated panels and have a very high restoration and new build fixings had to be concealed and not visible thermal efficiency – although SIPs have through the open jointed system. natural stone companies, been in use for a number of years, they Szerelmey has through the are still considered “innovative”. course of the company’s history, restored and worked on buildings from almost CHALLENGES SOLUTIONS every architectural style. As such our project portfolio presents an This project presented a number of Our Design team solved the dimensional A issue imposed by the 100mm allowance account of London’s architectural history. challenges, not least the busy location In order to restore such architecturally in Victoria which prevented the use of for the framework by using a quadruple significant properties, our specialists need traditional scaffolding. SOLUTIONS stainless steel channel member which to understand the building’s style and provides a fixing point for the stone A key consideration was the design of The issue with the lack of scaffolding was brackets and adds structural rigidity to the period, as well as the materials, to provide the columns and how best to install the most empathetic restoration and solved through the use of mast climbers. stainless steel frame. them given their very large size. This method presents its own problems, conservation service possible. We were contractually responsible for especially when dealing with such large A further major issue in terms of the design and engineering works to and heavy units, but it did facilitate the structure and design involved the develop the internal framework including build in very restricted circumstances. configuration of the top two levels of the calculations for connection loads, reactions building. From street level the design After evaluating the build limitations, it to structure and deflections. The structural aesthetic remains constant throughout was decided to prefabricate the columns restraint connections with cast-ins and the façade. However the top two levels off site and deliver and install them on thermal connectors were also custom are two storey high penthouses, and site in single units. The Jura stone pieces designed. We co-ordinated the design to therefore there is no floor slab at level were manufactured in Germany and ensure it was fit for stone fixing purpose. 13 to fix back the lintel and support the shipped to Portland where they were Final internal framework support for the “SZERELMEY PROVIDED weight of the columns above and below. flying walls consists of a mix of 100 x 100 assembled into columns using 2 steel THE JURA LIMESTONE pre-tensioned rods per column, and FAÇADE TO THE KINGS x 8 SHS, 200 x 100 x 8 RHS and quadruple shipped to site where they were hoisted GATE RESIDENTIAL stainless channel sections. The 8 storey into position through the use of a tower BUILDING IN VICTORIA. high frame was composed of single storey crane. A CHALLENGING height frames, bolted together on site when INSTALLATION BOTH installed, via splice plates and holobolts. To solve the problem posed by the lack LOGISTICALLY AND The stone panels fixed to either side of the of floor slab at level 13 we replaced the TECHNICALLY … THE frame varied in size with the largest being precast concrete lintel used on the other RESULT IS A FAÇADE 1600 x 900mm. levels with a steel beam clad in light FOR CONTRACTOR AND weight GRC. The columns at the top CLIENT TO BE PROUD Each flying wall is supported at the base level (level 14), the steel beam and the OF, WITH CHARACTER on a 1m high x 400mm wide steel beam columns below this level (level 13) are AND BEAUTY.” with restraints at the top and at every

all hung from the structural beam at the IAN RONCHETTI other floor level. top of the building. OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

LEND LEASE NEW BUILD PROJECT FOCUS NEW BUILD PROJECT OPEN TO DISCOVER

SZERELMEY | FINESSE MAGAZINE 11

RATHBONE PASSAGEWAYS PROJECT WORK IN PROGRESS CLIENT – GREAT PORTLAND ESTATES FOCUS MAIN CONTRACTOR – LEND LEASE PROJECT ARCHITECT – MAKE ARCHITECTS HOLLAND GREEN, PARABOLA SKY BOXES CLIENT – CHELSFIELD athbone Square will be a MAIN CONTRACTOR – MACE new public space in the PROJECT ARCHITECT – OMA AND ALLIES AND MORRISON heart of London’s West End occupying a 2.3 acre site between Rathbone Place and Newman Street. olland Green is a Szerelmey undertook all the external of the apartments without increasing R The square will be surrounded by high development of stone cladding for the three blocks, the building footprint at ground level. quality retail and commercial space and three new residential 7,000 square metres in total, using Each sky box is 100 metres square and 162 residential apartments. The square apartment buildings on German Jura limestone. We have is clad with stone pieces measuring will be accessed through two unique the 3.5 acre site of the excellent relationships with our trusted 2m x 1m x 40mm thick. The stone passageways, clad in jade-green faience. former Commonwealth suppliers and always take our clients components of these boxes being H Szerelmey are undertaking the design, Institute on High Street Kensington. to the quarry to view and approve extremely large and heavy, required supply and installation of the bespoke The existing Grade II* building with its the range of stone, and to see how specialist lifting equipment including faience, the supporting structure and the distinctive parabolic copper roof is to the production process works. On this gas prop lifts. become the new Design Museum. The project, once our design team began granite plinth. In addition to the faience, development represents a collaboration the design work, the total lead in for we are also installing bronze powder between Allies and Morrision and Dutch the stone was 20 weeks. coated aluminium lighting channels and architects OMA, who Szerelmey also the glazed office walkways that intersect The design of Holland Green is worked with at One New Court, the the public passageways. distinctive with its “floating sky boxes”, Rothschild Bank Headquarters. Holland stone clad balconies that project from Green is OMA’s first residential project KEY CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE the façade, and increase the floor space Rathbone Passageway – will connect in the capital. PROJECT ARE: the new public square to Rathbone • The production of regular, consistent Place. This passageway is 5.5m wide x and arched faience pieces to clad the 5.5m high x 23.5m long. curved passageways. Newman Passageway – will connect • The design of the backing structure the new square to Newman Street. This to fix the faience units back to. passageway is 2.75m wide x 5.5 high x 17m long. • The development of the glaze itself to achieve the correct green. ABOUT THE FAIENCE

The faience pieces forming the cladding for the passageways will be produced using an extrusion process, while the bull nosed faience pieces on each entrance way are hand pressed. To achieve the exact curve of the archway, the flat, extruded faience pieces are laid in a curved mould to dry and set. Developing the right colour glaze is always a long and complicated process and involves a great deal of trial and testing by the suppliers. This particular glaze, which had to exactly match the client’s jade bracelet, took approximately 8-10 weeks of kiln trials. The approved colour is achieved through a two layer application of colour – first an engobe is applied to the extrusion and the piece is fired, then cut to the exact size. Next a layer of green is applied over the engobe and the piece fired again.

SZERELMEY | FINESSE MAGAZINE 13 BRITISH STANDARDS BS EN 1341: 2001 – slabs of natural stone for external paving – requirements and test methods. Annex D (Note – invokes pendulum test method) BS EN 14231: 2003 – Natural stone test CHOOSING methods – determination of the slip resistance by means of the pendulum test. Provides a methodology for THE RIGHT STONE laboratory & site tests. BS EN 5385: Part 5: 2009 – Wall and floor tiling. Design and installation of terrazzo, natural stone and agglomerate Early stone choice is also important he range of different stone tile and slab flooring. Code of because it can greatly affect the actual SIZE IS stone available for use Practice, Section 6.4.5 and Appendix B design. For example some stones will in the construction (Note – invokes pendulum test method) industry is almost need to be thicker than others to pass EVERYTHING limitless, but the range certain tests such as impact testing. The thickness of the stone affects the The sizing of the cut stone also has T of different stones SLOPES AND RAMPS actually seen on or in buildings in total wall build up, being particularly price and programme considerations. this country is fairly limited, and with relevant in areas where the foot print If the piece is too small then the price Whenever a floor is sloped the minimum good reason. Portland, European is key. will escalate due to the amount of slip resistance must be increased. fixings required per metre squared. Based on a PTV of 36 as a minimum, limestones, different granites and Every stone supplier must now Equally if too large there will be SLIPPERY the current guidance provides this different Italian marbles are seen produce CE marking and Performance issues with transporting, handling calculation: 36 + 100 x angle of slope. most frequently, although within Certificates for their stone. These and installing. This is particularly Slip resistance requirement for slopes these there is great range of colour certificates indicate what uses the WHEN WET relevant on very restricted sites with increases significantly as the angle and variety of texture. stone is suitable for and presents test difficult access, where moving large SLIP RESISTANCE FOR INTERNAL increases. As stone specialists we are keenly results that validate the statements. pieces is impractical or impossible. AND EXTERNAL FLOORING IS A VITAL aware of the limitations of different Further testing can be undertaken Other considerations with very large CONSIDERATION WHEN CHOOSING stone, and how important it is to and impact testing, which tests not pieces are the forces they will be AND DESIGNING NATURAL STONE, ROUGHNESS make the right stone choice early in just the stone but the fixings and subjected to such as wind loading, WITH AN APPRECIABLE DIFFERENCE a project. Once the limitations of the backing structure too, should always Surface roughness testing should only compressive strength and live BETWEEN SURFACES WHEN THEY ARE stone are understood then it can be be carried out. be used in conjunction with Pendulum loading. DRY OR WET, FLAT OR SLOPED. Testing and not as an alternative to it. a case of designing accordingly to The great British climate can have There is generally a maximum accommodate. an effect on stone suitability with size based on the size of the particular reference to a stone’s block quarried. Suppliers will have lip resistance is measured using a ability to withstand frost and water HOW TO IMPROVE SLIP standard block sizes – these might portable slip testing device known Stone choice is typically driven by absorption. As such some European RESISTANCE ON NATURAL vary slightly from quarry to quarry. as a Pendulum Tester, with values the following (the order changes stones that might be suitable for STONE FLOORING depending whether an architect or a quoted as SRV (slip resistance external cladding in warmer, drier Honing or texturing the stone surface is quantity surveyor) : value) or PTV (pendulum test climates, might not work here. the simplest method of improving the We would recommend seeking S value) – both values being the same. PTV. Different finishes will however, alter A further crucial point to consider the advice of a stone specialist Occasionally the term “coefficient of friction” the appearance and colour of the stone, when selecting a stone is making sure (like us!) in the early stages of all might be used – this value can be converted • APPEARANCE/ so this should be considered during the there is enough quantity of the stone projects. to a SRV or PTV by multiplying by 100 so for AESTHETIC design process. to complete the project, and that the example, a coefficient of friction value of 0.28 • PLANNING quarry can produce the dimensions would equal a SRV/PTV of 28. The Pendulum It is possible to inlay strips of rubber, Test is the subject of British Standard BS7976: • PERSONAL PREFERENCE of the pieces. Lead in times vary metal or a rough honed stone within Parts 1-3, 2002. (ARCHITECT/CLIENT) between suppliers based on factory the pattern of the flooring, particularly capacity and current work load. relevant on slopes and stairs. • COST SAMPLE PANEL OF There are anti-slip treatments available, DIFFERENT STONES: POTENTIAL FOR SLIP HIGH MODERATE LOW but these should be treated with What is key however is how the stone PTV value 0-24 25-35 36+ caution. They require regular re- performs and what its intended use application and do not always work as is. Not all stones can perform every efficiently as they might. The Pendulum Test works by replicating a heel function. So for example while one FACT striking a floor surface. This is measured through Management of the area, i.e., rapid type of limestone might be suitable the use of a rubber “slider”, called Slider 96. A mopping up of areas when they for internal walling, it might not be GRANITE PLINTHS ARE softer rubber slider, Slider 55* is used to measure become wet and keeping the stone robust enough for external cladding. ESSENTIAL TO REDUCE a barefoot on flooring – particularly relevant for clean is essential. Another might be suitable for WEATHERING, WEAR swimming pool areas, wet rooms and spas. internal flooring, but not for external AND TEAR TO THE BASE paving, and in both instances the OF A BUILDING AND ARE In order for the results to be reliable they should *Can also be used to measure the friction of a skidding tyre on a wet road surface. finish of the stone will need to be MORE ROBUST THAN be generated using calibrated equipment and considered to ensure it achieves slip EVEN THE TOUGHEST done by an experienced operator. There are three resistance requirements. LIMESTONE. British Standards documents in addition to the UK Slip Resistance Group guidance document. DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY

SZERELMEY | FINESSE MAGAZINE 15 The answer to 1. is generally yes, and the answer to 2. is generally, yes, but it might not pay you to do so. Buildings move, facades move, and building components and façade components all move COMPLEX STONE MOVEMENT IN independently. So, for example, if part of your façade is in glazed brick and part is in stone, there will be a differece in movement between the two. CLADDING FACADES The increased movement seen in buildings today is largely based on the change in construction methods away from heavy weight traditional load TWO OF THE MOST FREQUENT QUESTIONS bearing stone towards the use of increasingly ne of the most frequent A further implication of BREEAM is the This is overcome through detailed SZERELMEY IS ASKED AT MEETINGS EARLY lightweight frames. challenges facing thermal performance of the building engineering work using programmes IN A PROJECT DESIGN ARE: engineers and installers envelope, which is commonly quoted such as Inventor as well as traditional Generally speaking, movement joints are an absolute

is measuring the visual as a U-value and is adversely affected hand calculation methods. The obvious necessity for buildings with non-load bearing expectation of architects by large steel bracketry. These areas other issue with the column is the size, 1. external cladding. They are seen as horizontal O requiring increasingly where heat is potentially conducted width and composition (solid stone, compression joints and vertical movement joints DO WE HAVE TO HAVE MOVEMENT JOINTS? large stone panels, against the technical out of the building through the stone on precast, stone on metal) which depending on the design of the building and façade. issues of fixing to lightweight building fixings or other projections are called is based on calculations of load and the Compression and movement joints both also known structures. Lightweight construction “cold bridges”. Full thermal analysis compressive strength of the material as soft joints will be larger than the regular jointing systems speed up construction of the complete wall build up from itself. A popular construction method, 2. between stone or faience components, and are significantly and reduce the load on substructure out to determine the areas due to time efficiency is to install CAN YOU MAKE THE NORMAL JOINTS SMALLER? normally upwards of 10mm and filled with a colour foundations, in turn reducing sub- where cold bridging might occur can be prefabricated columns that are post- matched mastic which is flexible, or can be left structure costs. The development of undertaken. Once identified this issue tensioned off site and installed in one open. Typically horizontal compression joints are increasingly sophisticated materials is overcome through the use of thermal piece (fixed top and bottom). This does required at every floor level, or sometimes every testing programmes has helped to breaks – non-conductive pads placed require substantial lifting equipment. second floor level, largely dependent on how the overcome this particular challenge. behind the fixings. There is currently load of the façade is being carried back. They can Software platforms facilitate finite extensive research and development To conclude, the balance comes be “hidden” under soffits, string courses and within element analysis applied to fixings ongoing into less-conductive materials in achieving the architect’s vision the design of the façade, so they can actually be far and standard structural analysis for suitable for use as fixings, although this within an engineered and workable less of an aesthetic imposition than is often thought. framework. Stone specialists such as lightweight structures. Inputting is still in its early days. Vertical movement joints on the façade should parameters such as loads, flexural Szerelmey will strive to find a solution The development of 3D modelling and reflect structural movement joints in the structure strength, break out around fixing points, to accommodate the visual intent. BIM represents a significant (and not of the building and can be carefully hidden behind material proof strength and modulus wholly accepted) technological change down pipes, adjacent to windows or in other façade of elasticity, stress and deflection of in the construction process, particularly detailing; they can also be “dog-legged” to fit in building materials can be demonstrated for clash detection and to aid the with façade detailing, though this is difficult to do. which in turn dictates the stone size prevention of any construction issues. Szerelmey will strive to conceal them wherever and thickness as well as any supporting Szerelmey uses BIM on all projects with possible. These joints, which are mastic filled, should bracketry. Designs incorporating large most to level 2 or level 3. appear a minimum of every 6 metres and be no less stone elements projecting from the than 10mm thick. They should also appear between building envelope with a seemingly An increasingly popular modern 1.5 and 3 metres from any corner. weightless appearance are currently aesthetic is the requirement for stone “on trend”. The often apparently columns and fins – fins in particular Normal joints are usually between 5-10mm and simple aesthetic of these buildings provide both exciting visuals and can Szerelmey will typically use a lime mortar, colour when finished, belie the extensive, or act as solar shading. Fins, despite matched if required; lime mortar is a “self healing” even exhaustive, materials testing and their apparent simplicity are extremely mortar meaning it is somewhat flexible, and when it engineering that facilitates them. complex to design and install. They does crack it will form a new surface skin to mend. may cantilever out from the building, There are industry standards on the maximum and Another “cladding challenge” has supported on one side only. This brings minimum size for mortar joints (see table). The arisen due to increased performance into play eccentric and substantial minimum size can be reduced with precision stone requirements under BREEAM leading loading and the potential for movement cutting, but this generally entails a greater cost. More to much larger cavities between the – these challenges are overcome relevant perhaps is the benefit of having a “healthy” substructure and cladding to account through extensive engineering and sized joint which will absorb a degree of movement for insulation requirements and structural design. Fins are typically built and therefore potentially result in a reduction to the prevention of thermal heat loss – this has onto a steel supporting framework, size of the actual compression or movement joint. seen cavities increase to up to 500mm clad in stone or as a pre-tensioned The movement through the façade will have to be in some instances. This means the stone unit. The more slender the requirement compensated for somewhere, so it depends how cladding is being fixed back on fixings of the fin, the harder it is to engineer the client wants to approach that compensation. Of that are having to span a large distance, given that space must be allowed for interest, jointing in faience and terracotta cladding therefore the fixing systems undergo the framework within. Another popular is generally larger due to the tolerances of the clay rigorous testing. One solution for this is design seen in several new buildings material, with 10mm as a standard. the use of a secondary metal framework is that of a stone “exoskeleton”, within the cavity to facilitate the fixing . slender stone frame and columns that system and reduce the distance the “embrace” the glazed building within. MATERIAL MINIMUM MORTAR JOINT WIDTH MAXIMUM MORTAR JOINT WIDTH fixing has to span. There is, of course, These again present their own technical an added cost implication involved with Faience* 10mm 13mm challenges in engineering, fabrication this. Another solution, and one favoured Limestone and sandstone 5mm 13mm and installation. One of the biggest by stone specialists such as Szerelmey, challenges with columns is modulus of Granite, marble and slate 3mm 13mm is a return to the traditional method of gyration, which is essentially twisting Slate with riven finish 7mm 13mm construction using load bearing, self- movement. supporting stone facades! *Faience – there is no industry standard yet, this is a recommended width by installation specialists SZERELMEY | FINESSE MAGAZINE 17 XFORD

SPOTLIGHT ON GB SZERELMEY I to namejust afew. University andBirminghamCityLibrary, stone fins,Boldrewood Southampton with asuccession ofelegantPortland Oxford, SalisburyCouncil Offices Edward KingChapel,RiponCollege, and Stirling Prize runnerup, Bishop Sainsbury Laboratory, Cambridge Stirling Prize Winning building, the country with projects including the most prestigious buildingsinthe Szerelmey GBworks onsomeofthe stone columns withdecorative capitals. thick, withfree standing, loadbearing using loadbearingClipshamat 150mm Cochere beingbuiltby Szerelmey GB works here includeanimpressive Porte Hotel, Cambridge. Part oftheextensive interest istheUniversity College Arms GRC roof. Anotherongoingproject of and externally, and an undulating a numberofstone fins radiating internally complicated footplate that incorporates the University ofOxford, whichhasa Worcester College Theatre Building at projects. Onesuchisthenearlyfinished regularly deliver extremely complex stone knowledge and expertise, and represent aformidable bankofspecialist for someyears. Markandhisteam the Szerelmey nameacross thecountry Mark Dellarwhohasbeenchampioning industry professionals, led by Director The GBteam comprises anumberof project managementandinstallation. service from design,to procurement, works inallsectors andprovides afull Jersey andGuernsey. Szerelmey GB throughout thecountry, including internals andhard landscaping and faience, undertakingexternals, supply andinstallation ofnatural stone company that specialisesinthedesign, is anindustry award winning Szerelmey GB.Szerelmey GB across theUKundercapof delivers projects extensively of ourclients,butSzerelmey t may come asasurpriseto some OUR AREA London andwithintheM25. work almost exclusively in Ltd, sister company to GB, outside London. Szerelmey of theCompany’s work is London, althoughthemajority does deliver projects in and Jersey. Szerelmey GB Britain includingGuernsey length and breadth of Great projects throughout the Szerelmey GBundertakes • • • • • • WE ALSOCARRY OUT: WHAT YOU MIGHTNOT REALISEIS, OUR SERVICES A LOOKAT DRAINAGE UNDERFLOOR HEATING INSULATION FIRE ANDCAVITY BARRIERS DAMP PROOFMEMBRANES BACKING WALL STRUCTURES iconic buildingsacross theCapital. innumerable listed, heritage, fragile and Restoration business hasworked on Over thecourse ofourlong history our painting, metalwork andleadwork. joinery, carpentry, roofing, decorative lime render, limewashes, rendering, repair, terracotta replacement, limeplaster, Brickwork, stonemasonry, terracotta working with: specialist restorers andare experienced in and cleaning services we employ trained, In additionto afull range ofrestoration heritage buildings. experienced at working onfragile and remodelling services andare highly conservation, refurbishment and We offer a complete range of restoration, • • • • • • RESTORATION OUR SERVICES: CLADDING”, HEREISASUMMARY OF THE NOTION THAT WE “ONLY DO WHAT WE DO. INORDERTO DISPEL ALWAYS REALISETHEEXTENTOF SECTORS, THAT CLIENTS DON’T NEW BUILDANDRESTORATION RANGE OFSERVICES ACROSS BOTH SZERELMEY OFFERSSUCHAWIDE feature walls, terraces custom water features, benches,planters, steps, HARD LANDSCAPING –complex paving, desks staircases, bathrooms, spaareas, reception suspended wall linings,ceilings, bespoke floors (raised and standard), lightweight INTERIORS –stone, faience, agglomerate terracotta andbrickifpartofalarger package EXTERNAL CLADDING–stone, faience, NEW BUILD installation We undertake fullsite managementand programming andlogistics We manageco-ordination, planningand We carryoutcost plandevelopment supply We offer material advice, sourcing and Revit, AutoCad, Rhino, Inventor, BuildDesk We have anin-housedesignteam usingBIM, design through delivery andinstallation We offer total project managementfrom SZERELMEY | FINESSEMAGAZINE

19 INDIANA LIMESTONE GERMAN JURA Portugal, with its limestone mountain ranges and fertile valleys is known for GREAT MINSTER EAST LIMESTONE its excellent wines of both red and white CLIENT - BARRATT HOMES ARCHITECT - EPR KINGS GATE HOUSE variety. White “branco” wines from MAIN CONTRACTOR - BARRATT CLIENT - LAND SECURITIES Bairrada and Alentejo like the cheeky HOMES ARCHITECT -LYNCH Antao Vaz are highly rated, along with - LEND LEASE MAIN CONTRACTOR full bodied reds from the Douro Valley. This was a complicated project that involved restoration, repair, cleaning This complicated and unusual design and new build stonework. Szerelmey involved the design, supply and undertook all the work, replacing like- installation of German Jura limestone in for-like Indiana limestone on the façade the form of large rectangular blocks and and creating a new entrance. This was imposing stone fins offset floor on floor the largest project in London using and supported on pre-cast concrete this American limestone. Indiana has a columns. The fins are 3m high and were thriving wine industry, to such extent shipped from Germany to Portland to that there are numerous “Indiana Wine be assembled and transported direct to Trails” that take in a number of the site in single units. All the installation was wineries. A wide variety of grapes are done using mast climbers. Whilst our grown on the limestone soil, giving rise Jura limestone is quarried in Germany, to a diverse collection of reds, whites there is a department of France and roses. called Jura, between Burgundy and Switzerland that is famous for its wine. I concede this is cheating. However, Jura wine is little known outside France and is described as distinctive and idiosyncratic! Its most famous wine is vin CALIZA CAPRI Jaune, made like sherry in an oxidative style. The grape trousseau, from the 40 GROSVENOR PLACE CLIENT - NPS VICTORIA region, is very highly rated. The area of INVESTMENTS LONDON LTD “LIMESTONE SOILS ARE SAID Jura in Germany from where our stone MAIN CONTRACTOR - SZERELMEY TO ACCOUNT FOR SOME OF THE originated is most associated with beer RESTORATION BOLDEST WINES IN THE WORLD. WE COULD SAY THAT LIMESTONE (Tucher Brau brewed in Nuremberg). This large commercial building on the ITSELF ACCOUNTS FOR SOME OF corner of Grosvenor Place and Hobart LIMESTONE THE GREATEST BUILDINGS.” Place was cleaned using the house TRAVERTINE cradle system with a combination of water, steam and hand cleaning 62 BUCKINGHAM GATE CLIENT - LAND SECURITIES methods. The thorough restoration and WINE OUR BUILDINGS ARCHITECT - PELLI CLARKE PELLI cleaning work has returned the original WITH SWANKE HAYDEN CONNELL pristine appearance to the Spanish AND THEIR WINE MAIN CONTRACTOR - SIR ROBERT Caliza Capri limestone facades. Caliza & WHY LIMESTONE MCALPINE Capri is quarried in Southern Spain and PARTNERS AND Szerelmey carried out all the internal AND VINEYARDS? is a rich, creamy white stone containing stonework to the imposing reception VINEYARDS small fossils. The wines of this region, As stone specialists Szerelmey works Limestone soils are rich in minerals and area of this impressive building. We round Alicante and south to Andalusia with a huge variety of different stones plant-accessible calcium carbonate, the Here we take a light-hearted look designed, supplied and installed end- are less known than their northern from exotic and very expensive main chemical component of limestone, at some of our buildings in different matched Silver Travertine to the walls, counterparts, but every bit as good. marbles, to granite, slate, sandstone and are typically found along decayed limestones, from different regions, Gris Inma flooring and Classic Roman Monastrell is a characterful, high alcohol and limestones. Of these, it is stones limestone outcroppings. Often the soils and attribute a local wine to them! Travertine in the bathrooms. The most red variety and Moscatel, a natural from the diverse “limestone family” that will consist of a base layer of limestone famous travertine quarries are found sweet, aromatic variety that is typically make up the largest percentage of our soil with a mixture of limestone and FRENCH JAUMONT in the Lazio region of Italy, outside used for producing fortified wines. buildings. Limestone is a sedimentary marl on top - marl being a mixture of SAINSBURY LABORATORY Rome. Lazio is most famous for its rock that contains at least 50% calcium clay and limestone. There are four key CLIENT - UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE white wines, which are noted for being carbonate in the form of the mineral reasons why these limestone soils are ARCHITECT - STANTON WILLIAMS MAIN CONTRACTOR - KIER crisp and light, and best suited to being calcite. All limestones contain a small thought to contribute towards wine consumed while young (the wine, not percentage of other materials such as quality: A winner of the RIBA Stirling Prize, the the consumer). The area produces some quartz, clay minerals and other minerals building has a distinctive façade with sweet wines and several reds. Notable 1. Water management – calcium-rich and may contain larger elements of 168 French Jaumont columns each 4.5m clay soils retain moisture during dry whites are Castelli Romani, Frascati MOLEANOS pyrite, siderite or chert. Limestones vary high and requiring highly specialist periods, but drain well during heavy rain. and Est! Est! Est! and red, Cesanese del greatly in their appearance and qualities design and installation. Jaumont Piglio. THE COURTHOUSE HORSEFERRY ROAD - BARRATT HOMES such as durability and strength, which 2. Nutrient management – calcium- limestone is quarried in the Moselle CLIENT department of north-east France, ARCHITECT -HLM will impact on their suitable uses in the rich soils are associated with improved MAIN CONTRACTOR - BARRATT construction industry. nutrient uptake by the plant. which is also home to “Moselle” wines. HOMES/STANMORE Red, rose and white wine is produced Something limestones do share in 3. Root development – vines have very here with the white most prolific and Szerelmey installed all of the external common, in general terms, is their deep root systems that penetrate down noted for its light, crisp and aromatic handset Moleanos cladding to this 9 correlation to excellent vine growing to the deep soil layers. Limestone soils body. White wines include Pinot Gris storey residential building, a 900mm regions, and whilst we are primarily are good because the soil particles offer and Auxerrois Blanc. Carioca Gold granite plinth and Carioca stone specialists at Szerelmey, for the less mechanical resistance to roots than Gold granite to the balconies. Szerelmey most part, we are also not averse to a some other soil types, and so allow installed the cladding to the lower nice glass of wine too! them to expand and grow healthily. floors while the structural concrete for the upper floors was still being poured, – studies have 4. Disease resistance making this a very rapid build. shown that calcium-rich soils are essential for the formation of disease- resistant vines and grapes. SZERELMEY | FINESSE MAGAZINE 21 www.szerelmey.com Specialists in stonework, faience & restoration since 1855