Product Design Assets, launched by Tobermore as part of Create & Construct, the industry’s most comprehensive hard landscaping support hub, has seen a steady growth in the number of architects and designers accessing the service to help streamline project planning, visualisation and specification.
In the first three months, more than 80 designers and architects used the service, downloading more than 180 design assets. Among the most sought-after resources were seamless swatch downloads of Artro, Braemar and Fusion block paving, with Mayfair slabs also proving a popular choice.
Developed to support a more streamlined specification process, the service gives architects and designers quick and convenient access to the technical information and design files they need throughout a project lifecycle. As a result, specifiers can download everything they need to support their designs, from seamless swatches and laying patterns to Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and spec sheets. Multiple product downloads can be undertaken at once to help speed up the process.
One of these users is Faviola Muela, Architectural technologist at Jane McCorkell Design, who has accessed Product Design Assets through the Create & Construct online platform. Speaking about the service, she said: “Tobermore’s Design Assets have significantly enhanced our design workflow from concept development through to construction. Access to detailed product information, visualisation resources, and technical guidance enables us to make informed design decisions and deliver higher-quality landscape schemes. A thorough understanding of the products we specify ultimately leads to better design outcomes and more successful project delivery.”
Design resources include DWG files for use across a wide range of design software, including SketchUp and Revit, alongside PAT hatch pattern files specifically for AutoCAD users. They are available for all block paving, slab paving, permeable paving, retaining walls and facing bricks, with all colours and all laying patterns available.
“We are encouraged by the strong early engagement from designers and architects looking for faster, more efficient ways to progress their projects,” said Lisa Gow, Head of Specification at Tobermore.
“We understand the pressure specifiers are under to keep projects moving, so having instant access to the right tools and support is critical. Product Design Assets brings everything together in one place, helping users develop designs more efficiently and collaborate more effectively with stakeholders.”
How are architects using the Product Design Assets service?
With Product Design Assets quickly becoming an integral part of architects’ design toolkit across the country, we look at real projects to show how the service helps simplify the design stage and make project planning easy.
Specification backed up by performance data
When designing public realm spaces, architects need to balance aesthetics with performance and maintenance, while also ensuring accessibility for all. A good example is the Leeds Public Transport Investment Programme (LPTIP), a million-pound project by Architect Capita Symonds for the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Leeds City Council. The scheme creates a city arrival gateway for trains, buses, pedestrians and cyclists.
An attractive paving solution was needed to withstand significant footfall. Design considerations for the shared space included accessibility for all, product tolerances, maintenance and slip/skid risk.
Tobermore provided specification data, including PSRV (Polished Slip/Skid Resistance Value) figures for the chosen Braemar block paving. PSRV figures account for a product’s slip/skid risk when polished by vehicular traffic. They are included in each product’s specification sheet, which can be downloaded directly from the product page or from the Product Design Assets section of Create & Construct.
“Aesthetically, the granite look of Braemar Block Paving regenerates the townscape and makes the centre more welcoming and attractive for visitors, residents and employees,” said Lisa.
Bringing designs to life with visualisations
Hard landscaping materials for heritage developments need to create a cohesive scheme that ties together old and new. Clients may therefore want reassurance that the products specified will rise to the challenge. For this reason, Tobermore worked closely with project architects, Barclay & Phillips, to provide complimentary design visualisations for the Old Brewery in Salisbury to show how paving aligned with the historic appearance of the location.
Using a 3D project visual from the architect, Tobermore presented a selection of paving options for the communal courtyard and paths. These allowed the developer to envision how the hard landscaping could complement the project. It’s a great way to ‘try before you buy’ and increase confidence when selecting products.
Now, thanks to seamless swatches, which form part of Product Design Assets, architects can do this for themselves. Files are compatible with all major design software and are available for all paving, walling and facing brick products. All colours and all laying patterns are available.
After reviewing the visualisations, the client chose Tegula block paving in Charcoal and Tegula Setts in Natural to give the Old Brewery a vintage aesthetic which aligned perfectly with the history of the site.
Helping architects move seamlessly from concept to specification, Product Design Assets is one of 20 services available through Create & Construct, Tobermore’s free support hub. Combining innovative digital tools with access to in-house design and technical expertise, the platform is designed to support every stage of the project journey.
Other services included in the Create element of Create & Construct include bookable Virtual Sample Studio sessions, mood boards, visuals and concept inspiration, as well as 2D and 3D design services to bring designs to life. Architects can also access comprehensive technical support, including fully indemnified permeable paving design and retaining wall design.
Working hand in hand with Create, Construct supports contractors and installers throughout the project lifecycle, from tender and installation to project completion and aftercare. The service provides expert guidance, technical support and practical resources to help ensure successful project delivery and long-term performance.
To simplify your design process and download everything you need for your project, visit the Product Design Assets page. For the wider range of design tools, simply visit Create & Construct and move the slider to identify the services needed based on the stage of your project.