Construction safety should never be compromised comments BSIF

The recent (21st October 2015) BBC Newsnight investigation into the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card brings the health and safety of UK construction workers into focus. Commenting on the investigation, Alan Murray, BSIF CEO said: “We have a very good... View Article
US ideas reflects on new Papworth Hospital

US ideas reflects on new Papworth Hospital

Anish Kapoor provides an inspiration for HOK’s new Papworth Hospital, as Steve Menary reports. Anish Kapoor’s Cloud Gate is a highly polished bean-shaped sculpture at the centre of AT&T Plaza at Millennium Park in Chicago. The sculpture by the Indian-born... View Article
Recycling space and structures to create new homes

Recycling space and structures to create new homes

Jess Unwin learns how clever and flexible design is helping to create much-needed modern new homes, rented apartments, that integrate with existing communities. Canny architectural design should be able to help meet both the UK’s desperate need for more affordable... View Article
Treating damp and water ingress in historic and listed buildings

Treating damp and water ingress in historic and listed buildings

The fundamental challenge when dealing with buildings of special architectural or historic interest is to maintain structural and aesthetic integrity, while remaining sympathetic in the product application and still achieving the desired effect. Toby Champion of Newton Waterproofing Systems reports.... View Article
Construction consultants comment on new housebuilding proposals

Construction consultants comment on new housebuilding proposals

Commenting on the housebuilding proposals for 200,000 new ‘affordable homes’ to be announced in David Cameron’s Conservative Party Conference speech later today, Michael Thirkettle, Chief Executive of leading property and construction consultants McBains Cooper, said: “The construction industry will welcome... View Article

A giant leap forward

With the BBC due to demolish the corporation’s old Wales’ headquarters in Cardiff there will be few major examples of the architecture of renowned Welsh architect Sir Percy Thomas in the principality’s capital. One of those remnants is the Grade... View Article
Choosing the right floor covering

Choosing the right floor covering

With an increased focus on infection control and healthy living environments the Care Sector is faced with a number of opinions and options when it comes to choosing the right floor covering, as Danfloor reports. The use of carpets is... View Article
The future of water

The future of water

Jae Lester of Rainwater Harvesting Ltd examines the options for a Sustainable Water Supply for the future With changing weather patterns and urban growth stress is being placed on UK water supplies. Future building projects should have design criteria which... View Article

A whole new village – just for the retired

On the outskirts of Witney, architects PRC are helping Richmond Care Villages create a whole new village – just for the retired, as Steve Menary reports Getting old is hard to avoid and retirement is inevitable. The alternatives are not... View Article
The RIBA Shanghai Windows project saw nine UK architects transform store fronts in the landmark Xintiandi shopping district in Shanghai

British Design – Xintiandi Style

The RIBA Shanghai Windows project saw nine UK architects transform store fronts in the landmark Xintiandi shopping district in Shanghai. Stephen Cousins reports Shanghai Xintiandi An ethereal artificial waterfall comprising 30,000 metres of translucent cord; an alien-inspired formation of shiny... View Article

Listen to this!

John Spicer, technical sales manager for Armstrong Ceilings, advises seven things architects may not necessarily know about specifying ceilings Ceilings are capable of so much more than just disguising a soffit or void. They can optimise acoustics and occupant well-being... View Article
Rooflights and building excellence

Rooflights and building excellence

Correct rooflight design at the outset of the building concept can have dramatic, positive effects on all aspects of the building from the owners potential asset value to the wellbeing and productivity of the final occupants. Phil Beswick, specification sales... View Article
The importance of interiors

Got the look?

How interiors can increase the value and desirability of your property. By Sarah Ritchie, creative director of The Gifted Few. The importance of interiors There are a number of factors potential house buyers consider when looking around a property. Is it in the... View Article

SIPs suitability

With an increasing drive to ensure homes are as efficient as possible – particularly where heating, cooling and ventilation is concerned – it is important to carefully consider the various housebuilding options available to ensure minimal thermal losses. Here, Andrew Carpenter, chief executive of the Structural Timber Association (STA) looks at... View Article
The steel alternative

The steel alternative

Mike Rawlings from Saint Gobain PAM challenges housebuilders to look beyond alternative rainwater systems and consider specifying a steel system. Steel rainwater systems are quickly becoming a great alternative for all types of dwellings and offer significant benefits for social housing. The material is making... View Article
Staying informed and within the law with invasive plant legislation

Staying informed and within the law with invasive plant legislation

David Layland, joint managing director of treatment specialist Japanese Knotweed Control (JKC) offers a timely warning to landowners and developers on the perils of ignoring the latest invasive plant legislation. A difficult and expensive burden, invasive, non-native plants have long been the scourge... View Article