Project description
Entrepreneur Paul Sweeney had grand plans to design and build his dream home in Worsley, Manchester. Throughout his plans he wanted to create a timeless look and feel, but there was one feature in particular that would really set this property apart; a unique gallery to showcase his collection of cars. To achieve the desired effect required applying traditional skills and materials in an innovative way. Even though the design and installation was unlike anything the installer had worked on previously, his 36 years’ experience working with British Gypsum’s range of trusted, versatile products allowed him to tackle the project with confidence. And, with commercial support from the British Gypsum sales team, they were able to use the products in new and innovative ways to achieve stunning results.
Contractor
Gorge Woord & Son
George Wood & Son is a family business with a proven track record and four generations of plastering experience passed down from father to son since 1939. The current owner, Andrew, started work in the business 39 years ago after he left school at 16 to become a plasterer. He learnt his trade from his father George, who worked alongside his owner father, also called George, who started the business. Now, Andrew’s son – Alex, aged 19 – has joined the company and his first job was the Sandywood project. As a small family business, the Wood family have built up a solid reputation and all work comes through via word of mouth and referrals. They work predominantly across the North West on a range of projects, including newbuilds, refurbishments, residential and hospitality.
Key Achievements
- Striking, unusual and ambitious design with multiple angles completed to a very high standard
- Using trusted and versatile products in a new and innovative way with exceptional craftmanship
- A collaborative approach between the property owner, installer and British Gypsum made possible thanks to long-term relationships
Not only was this project ambitious in terms of the scale and complexity of the bespoke design, but it was a very personal project for the property owner, so it was essential that the finished job was of the highest level of quality possible. There were a number of technical challenges to overcome, particularly working at height with such narrow gaps in between the triangles and geometric angles. Not only did the success of the project rely on the quality and reliability of the products and materials, but the experience, skill and creative approach from the installer.
Because traditional steel trowels were too wide to use in the narrow gaps between the triangles, the installer had a stonemason cut down his tools to enable him to get into the space and achieve the perfect finish.