Paving the way for nature

Chris Hodson of Interpave discusses why concrete block permeable paving (CBPP) is a key sustainable drainage system (SuDS) technique Extensive new tree planting with provision for long-term nurturing is now a requirement for developments, with new government policies taking effect.... View Article

Manage heating the easy way

Nicola Martin at RadiWarm explains the simplicity and efficiency of electric pipeless radiators For landlords and housing managers, heating presents some pressing challenges; sharply rising prices and the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions, to name but two. In terms... View Article

Ensuring safe and efficient heating

The pressure to decarbonise existing homes continues to grow, as does the desire to end fuel poverty. Anthony Watton of Baxi Heating explores how social housing providers can implement heating solutions that prioritise both efficiency and safety for occupants. With... View Article

The changing climate of water conservation

In the UK, water conservation has been on the agenda for years. However, Steve Leigh of Groundbreaker Systems explains why our growing population and increased demand will result in critical water situations more regularly, especially in the driest parts of... View Article

Lessons still being learned from Grenfell

With the Grenfell Tower Inquiry resuming, Paul Richards of Aquarian Cladding Systems discusses the continuing impact of the disaster, and how the cladding industry must adapt. Following the Grenfell Tower tragedy in 2017, fire safety has been at the forefront... View Article

A heart of oak

Already in receipt of several awards, Hornsey Rise in Leicestershire was developed to meet strong demand for luxury detached homes with a more ‘intimate’ community feel. Lee Harris of developer Springbourne Homes explains to Jack Wooler how the site’s rich... View Article

Back to the Futurebuild

Futurebuild, the event that’s championed a sustainable built environment for the past 16 years, is back. Taking place from 1-3 March at excel, the event will connect specifiers, decision makers and ‘disruptors’ with major brands and start-ups from across the... View Article

Frugal fires

Not only do fires and stoves provide a luxurious traditional aesthetic, but they can now also achieve high levels of energy efficiency. Annabelle Carvell of Stovax gives the argument for why they should be high on developers’ agenda. New build... View Article

The outlook for glazing trends in 2022

After some significant recent industry impacts including Covid and net zero targets, John McComb from Reynaers Aluminium uk looks at five key glazing specification trends and how it’s responding to them. During these undoubtedly uncertain times, it is difficult to... View Article

Purposefully porous

As a SuDS expert, Chris Griffiths of Marshalls explains why he is committed to bringing the approach into schemes using porous solutions to manage surface water in an increasingly challenging environmental context The latest State of the UK Climate report... View Article

Green connections

A reuse proposal to create a new transport hub in Vilnius was used by ZHA as an opportunity to provide a new connectivity across the city for its inhabitants, as well as improve rail infrastructure and sustainability The design for... View Article

Venting about spec quality

Tony Stevens at Bilco UK explains ‘NSHEVs’ – a ‘natural’ approach to ventilating spaces during fires – and factors that architects need to address when considering it According to The National Statistics Survey for fire and rescue services in England,... View Article

Untouchable innovation

Geoff Firth of Boon Edam explains why touchless technology is the “evolution of the connected workplace” and discusses futureproofing commercial buildings There was a time when you wouldn’t have thought twice about calling a lift, opening a door, or using... View Article

Achieving soundproofing standards we can proud of

By Ben Hancock, Managing Director at Oscar Acoustics It’s an all too familiar scene – the thumping of footsteps from noisy neighbours above or loud music being heard through adjacent walls, disturbing the tranquillity in our homes. For many people,... View Article

Build towards net zero at Futurebuild

Futurebuild, which has championed sustainability in the built environment for the past 16 years (including in its former guise, Ecobuild), returns to ExCel on 1-3 March. It will connect specifiers, decision makers, major brands and start-ups from across the industry... View Article

Rooted in users’ experience

Grimshaw is leading a team to deliver a highly-integrated transport hub at Shenzhen airport, in a structure and circulation strategy inspired by mangrove trees In April 2021, a design consortium led by Grimshaw, and including Mott MacDonald, China Aviation Planning... View Article

Flexible solutions for changing generations

Ann Boardman of Saniflo discusses ideas for flexible living spaces including flexible bathroom options It’s well known that basements, lofts and unused spaces can be successfully converted into rooms that add value and practicality to a home. Even when a... View Article

Fireproofing green roofs

Julian Thurbin of modular green roof solutions supplier Wallbarn discusses the issues around ensuring fire performance of ‘living’ roofs and how to achieve compliance A key consideration for architects working on green roof projects has always been the load-bearing capability... View Article

Ask the Architect: John Rhodes of HOK

With extensive experience in arena and stadium design, John Rhodes of HOK explains what drives him, and how the pandemic has forced designers to ‘futureproof’ major facilities What made you want to become an architect? I think I have always... View Article