In neaco’s experience oak is by far the most popular choice for wood-effect handrails, but one project went against the grain with a bespoke walnut-effect specification at a new £3.5m health and social care centre in Market Weighton, East Yorkshire.
Our advanced powder coating facilities can replicate the intricate detail of wood grain as a maintenance-free finish for our Timberline aluminium system. Due to mighty high demand, oak is Timberline’s standard specification, but a special request from architects Pearce Bottomley required us to branch out with a reproduction of walnut’s darker tones.
To the naked eye Timberline’s powder coated reproduction of natural wood grain is indistinguishable from the real thing. Available in a matt or gloss finish, the handrail’s timber style combines superbly with a metallic-finish balustrade, either in aluminium or stainless steel. Handrails are warm and comfortable to the touch with the superior smoothness and durability of powder coating. Timberline is non-absorptive – unlike genuine timber handrails, which require ongoing treatment to maintain their aesthetic, prevent absorption of bacteria and control infection. Timberline’s extremely durable finish is also a more practical alternative to real wood, which is vulnerable to surface damage.
Assura Group completed the 16,000sq ft medical centre in conjunction with project managers, LSP Developments, and contractors, Hobson & Porter. As well as an onsite pharmacy, the new building includes a minor surgery suite, training rooms and specialist clinics for those suffering from conditions like asthma, COPD and diabetes. Additional space for community services and visiting consultants has also been incorporated.
Amanda Roddy, development manager at Assura Group, said, “The completion of Market Weighton Medical Centre will revolutionise the quality and accessibility of care for the local community. Creating a multipurpose centre that delivers a wide scope of diagnostic and treatment services is driven towards enhancing the patient’s experience, but also for reducing the strain on local secondary care services. We hope that the staff, patients and wider community will enjoy these benefits of the new centre.”