Framing nature: fenestration design for comfort & compliance

Andrew Cooper of Senior Architectural Systems says architects can embrace principles of biophilic design and wellness, while keeping regulation compliance clearly in view. As well as being functional, fenestration systems can help create truly inspirational interiors where inclusivity, wellbeing, and... View Article

Transforming spaces with natural light

It is well established that maximising natural light boosts wellbeing and transforms living spaces. Victoria Brocklesby of Origin shares expert tips on using glazing and design to brighten homes beautifully. Natural light in a home has all kinds of benefits,... View Article

Designs for efficient living

Stephen Johnson of Quooker delves into how boiling water taps are helping architects design kitchens that reduce waste, conserve energy, and support sustainability for users, without compromising on style. As sustainability becomes a central consideration in architectural design, attention is... View Article

Time for a rethink on timber

Helen Hewitt of the British Woodworking Federation challenges outdated myths about specification of timber, which belie its durability and high-performance credentials. Timber is considered the oldest building material in the world, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood. Despite... View Article

That’s a wrap

The rare chance to create a new film and TV studio complex from scratch in the UK, equipped with the high performance and flexibility credentials to attract Hollywood, was perfect casting for Scott Brownrigg. Roseanne Field reports. The plans for... View Article

Practice Profile: Fereday Pollard

Kim Neville speaks to practice co-founder Chris Pollard to uncover how the privately-owned firm, turning 30 this year, specialises in large-scale infrastructure projects with the differentiator of putting ‘humanising architecture’ at the forefront. Fereday Pollard was established in 1995 by... View Article

View Point: Dr Stephen Hamil

Dr Stephen Hamil of NBS explains why better data standards and Digital Product Passports are vital to fix the industry’s fragmented systems and safeguard its future. For several years now, UK construction has been beset by issues around material quality,... View Article

Redefine inclusive building design with evacuation lifts

With the priority now inclusive design for all, evacuation lifts offer the chance for architects to go ‘beyond compliance,’ says Nick Mellor of LEIA. The introduction of the Building Safety Act 2022 and updates to BS 9991 and Approved Document... View Article

Timber steps up

Andrew Orriss of the Structural Timber Association (STA) outlines how timber construction offers housebuilders a route to ‘carbon-conscious design’ allied to commercial efficiency in the sector. As housebuilders and architects work toward delivering on the UK’s net zero commitments and... View Article

New town planning

Chris Adair of Marshalls, explores how developers can embed flood resilience into new housing schemes, especially as the UK prepares to deliver over a million homes, including a new generation of towns and communities. The UK Government’s recent announcement of... View Article

Social housing delivery crisis

Patrick Mooney explores how social housebuilders are falling far short of targets, with severe underinvestment, rising homelessness, and regulatory pressures undermining efforts to deliver the new homes urgently needed. A fall in the number of new homes started by housing associations... View Article

Top glass performance

Paul Higgins of TuffX explores how glazing has evolved into a critical element in buildings’ energy performance, and offers  a practical guide to help specifiers achieve ‘futureproofed’ glazing solutions. With the Future Homes Standard (FHS) set to take effect soon,... View Article

Get on top of roof design for big gains

Nick Boulton of the Trussed Rafter Association explains how engaging those responsible for roof design early helps housebuilders reduce waste, cut carbon, and meet evolving sustainability regulations. One area of significant progress is the design and construction of roof structures... View Article

A site worth its salt

A development of 103 new homes in Cheshire overcame obstacles from the site’s industrial history as a salt mine – which did not deter developers Russell Homes. Roseanne Field reports One of Russell Homes’ latest developments, Brook View, has not... View Article

What does planning reform mean for you

With the benefit of 20 years of experience navigating planning policy, Mark Mirams, chief operations officer at Studio Charrette, gives readers a no-nonsense view of the practical changes brought by the Planning and Infrastructure Bill. At Studio Charrette, we know... View Article

Let there be light

Tracey Jackson of Howells Patent Glazing explains why daylighting is a vital consideration for self-builders and renovators and how to achieve the best results. Natural light is a powerful resource and one of the most important elements in architectural design,... View Article

Breathe easy

Ashley Cooper of WMS explores how underfloor heating provides the ideal balance between indoor air quality, comfort and efficiency. When planning a self-build, comfort and efficiency are often top priorities, but one crucial factor is sometimes overlooked – indoor air... View Article

Technology’s critical role in tackling housing repairs

As housing repairs surge and insourcing rises, Dave Carr of Propeller, explains why embracing technology is essential for social landlords and their contractors. Housing providers in England are spending record amounts on repairs and maintenance, with expenditure exceeding £8.8bn in... View Article

The great retrofit challenge

Retrofitting the UK’s ageing homes is now an urgent priority. Simon Storer of the Insulation Manufacturers Association highlights the challenges and opportunities of meeting evolving safety, sustainability, and efficiency standards through effective insulation solutions. It is well known that the... View Article