A Technical History of Waterproofing

How today’s architecture is informed by the waterproofing of the past by Josh Jinks, Brand Manager at UltraTile Waterproofing has played a vital role in construction for millennia, enabling the preservation and longevity of architectural structures. From early civilisations to... View Article

Lime plasters: A game-changer for indoor air quality

When planning or undertaking a self-build or renovation, most people focus on layout, insulation and aesthetics. However, there’s another crucial element that deserves more attention: air quality. In a nation where people spend up to 90% of their time indoors,... View Article

The vital link between utility design and sustainability

With sustainability standards ever-tightening, architects are under increasing pressure to design smarter, more energy efficient buildings. Gary Akers, Head of Utilities at Whitecode Consulting, reveals the vital role utility design can play.  The government’s target of net zero by 2050... View Article

How secure is your metering system?

Wired M-Bus (Meter-Bus), the widely used European standard for remote reading of heat network meters, has drawn fire recently from providers of alternative solutions because it doesn’t use encryption. But that doesn’t mean it’s not 100% secure, says Sam Clarke, Business... View Article

The importance of biophilic design in education settings

Brontie Bennett, Product Marketing Manager for Gradus, discusses the importance of adopting biophilic design principles in education settings to not only enhance aesthetics, but to help meet the needs of tomorrow’s learners. In the UK, children typically spend 190 days... View Article

Designing for the reality not the concept

By Ian Rogers, Sales Director Gilberts Blackpool Indoor air quality (IAQ) is now an established concept in modern building. What is not established is how we can actually achieve it, especially in non-domestic buildings. However good the design on paper,... View Article

Combining sustainability with natural design

Sustainability is no longer just a consideration in architectural and interior design – it’s a driving force. From reducing carbon to selecting materials rich in recycled content, designers are embracing solutions that merge nature-inspired aesthetics with environmental responsibility. Here, Donna Hannaway,... View Article

How to Layer Lighting

Layering lighting is more than a design trend—it’s a practical approach to creating homes that feel warm, functional, and stylish. In this article, we speak with Rachel Morris, Marketing Manager at 4lite who advises on how to approach a layered... View Article

Ground source heat pump networks: benefits for developers

Neil Fitzsimons, Managing Director of Power On, looks at how networked ground source heat pumps can benefit builders and developers in light of the Future Homes Standard and the push for net-zero.  The regulatory landscape for heating residential buildings is... View Article

Heat networks drive decarbonisation of high-rise housing

Neil Fitzsimons, Managing Director of Power On, looks at how housing associations and local authorities can deliver more sustainable, low-carbon solutions for high-rise residential developments using heat network technology.  The UK housing sector remains a significant contributor to carbon emissions.... View Article

Commercial solar on pitched roofs: key considerations

Solar energy has quickly become a significant part of sustainability and energy efficiency strategies for businesses globally, including the UK. Installing solar panels on a pitched roof offers a cost-effective and environmentally responsible solution for harnessing renewable energy. However, when... View Article

Meeting the FHS with Ground Source Heat Pumps

The Future Homes Standard is nearly upon us; a set of legally binding mandates that the UK’s housebuilding market will need to comply with to help the country reduce carbon emissions and meet its net zero goals. But what does... View Article

Why it is important to choose an airtight attic hatch

Neil Turner, Technical Sales Manager at Ecological Building Systems, explains a practical way to improve comfort and energy efficiency in a building by installing an airtight attic hatch. “Ensuring that attic hatches are airtight is crucial for maintaining the overall... View Article

Closing the thermal performance gap

With regulations for energy efficiency, fire safety and sustainability tightening, building designers need an accurate and reliable way to model thermal performance. Nowhere is this more important than in rainscreen façades, where structural complexity and widespread thermal bridging present unique... View Article

Navigating the EV charging revolution

As the UK races towards its net-zero goals, housing providers face a critical challenge: how to efficiently and cost-effectively provide EV charging for residents. With the impending ban on new petrol and diesel cars, the time to act is now.... View Article

Beating mould damp and condensation in building design

Words by Jason Bennett, Indoor Air Quality expert at Zehnder Group UK With stricter energy regulations and rising insulation standards, architects are understandably designing homes to be airtight and therefore more energy-efficient.  Building regulations Approved Document Part L (Conservation of... View Article

Make a facade a feature with panel glazing

Maximising access to natural light is a key consideration for the majority of newbuild projects, from domestic to commercial. Here, Adrian Lukic, Divisional Sales & Commercial Director from Brett Martin discusses the alternatives to traditional glazing and looks at how... View Article

Smart controls for efficient heating

Oliver Baker, CEO at Ambion Heating, explores how infrared panel heating systems with smart controls can affordably banish inefficient heating in social housing with energy use data and future-ready technology.  There is an urgent need to decarbonise home heating to... View Article

The Impact of Transport on Community Design

Dominico Baldwin of Boyer (London) explores how rentable bikes and scooters are reshaping UK communities, influencing placemaking, and driving the shift towards more sustainable urban infrastructure. Over the last 15 years, cities and towns across the UK have all started... View Article