Opening up the possibilities

Garage doors have improved hugely in recent years as the value placed on them by homeowners has increased. David O’Mara of Hörmann looks at the different options available and how to decide which is best for you Garage doors have... View Article

Solar success: why PV systems are a win for landlords

Energy efficiency continues to be a hot topic for property as housing providers gear up to meet rigorous efficiency rules. John Forster, Chairman of Solar Trade Association Scotland, reveals how solar roofing can improve homes and lives. Despite the UK government’s commitment... View Article

Embracing nature

Garden designer Elaine James and her antique dealer husband Ian used their combined skills to design a tranquil home around the ever-changing view of the north Yorkshire countryside. It can be blowing a gale across the field at the back... View Article

Smart answers on smart homes

Ben Johnson, director of Powertrac Electrical Services, a Berkshire-based smart home and electrical contractor, answers some of the frequently asked questions on smart homes. What is a smart home? In short, a smart home intelligently automates and allows you to... View Article

Wellness in the workplace

Mark Bauer at Forbo Flooring Systems explores how improving workplace design with a holistic focus on all interior elements has the ability to enhance employee productivity and satisfaction. Workers spend between 80 and 90 per cent of their time in... View Article

A hot favourite for heating sustainable buildings

Rising fuel prices and the need to cut carbon emissions has put greater focus on green building and renewable energy. Schiedel Chimney Systems’ Stephen Dodds explains why wood burning stoves are the smart as well as safe way for heating... View Article

Presenting a sophisticated front

With more sophisticated facade solutions come even greater expectations. Paul Hughes from FunderMax explains how the market is continuing to innovate to meet clients’ increasingly esoteric demands. In today’s construction market, competition is no longer simply about the best price.... View Article

Preparing for winter with resilient properties

In recent years there has been significant damage to many properties as a result of harsh and persistent wintry weather. Flooding has been high up on the agenda with a national flood resilience review having been commissioned by the Department... View Article

Future is green: building envelopes and energy efficiency

Simon Wild, European Category Marketing Manager at Formica Group, discusses the importance of building envelopes in combatting carbon emissions and their role in energy efficiency. On a global scale residential and commercial buildings are estimated to contribute approximately 31.5 per cent of carbon... View Article

Feature: Wiping off the cost of maintenance

Industrial strength wipes can be a part of your overall cost saving strategy when it comes to housing association management and maintenance teams, explains Corinna Palin, International Marketing Manager of Big Wipes. According to the latest Health and Safety Executive... View Article

Potterton: Tackling fuel poverty with sustainable solutions

For the landlords of social housing, leaving a legacy has always been a core objective. But what options are available to housing associations aiming to tackle fuel poverty and support communities today? Bill Jones, sales director at Potterton considers what it... View Article

Casting the ideal contender for restoration roles

An appreciation of the past and the need to conserve historic buildings and architecture has led to an increased use of cast stone as a substitute to quarried stone. Looking at the two types of materials available, it is clear... View Article

Storm-proof rainwater harvesting

Combining rainwater harvesting with sustainable urban drainage systems (SuDS) enables architects to provide an efficient, space-saving water management solution that’s resilient against the future. Kevin Reed of Graf UK explains how. The effects of climate change are making headlines almost... View Article

Shedding light on innovation

Simon Shenton from lighting supplier Luceco describes how LED technology has permanently disrupted what was a stagnant market offering prescribed solutions for each sector, to provide the dominant solution for the future. The global lighting market has seen more innovation in... View Article

An insider’s guide to station fencing

With significant numbers of new railway stations planned and many others due for redevelopment or modernisation, Peter Jackson of Jacksons Fencing explains how gates and fences can enhance security. Rail usage in Britain has increased to record levels over the... View Article

Transforming transport washrooms

New washroom technology can improve hygiene and user experience while reducing water and energy consumption. Cistermiser’s David Meacock explains. Washrooms are top priority when designing customer-facing areas for transport infrastructure. A clean, hygienic and inviting washroom can make a positive impact... View Article

The changing face of passenger terminal entrances

Jonathan Nobbs of Assa Abloy Entrance Systems explores how intelligently applied and well-designed automated entrances can help to improve the movement of people through ever-busier transport hubs. Public transport usage is booming. Last year, bus and coach travel in many areas... View Article

Versatile glass: take the safe option

Glass is an invaluable and flexible design element in modern transport hubs, but also has to meet increasingly rigorous safety and security standards, says Sto’s Rob Freegard. In today’s increasingly fluid world, the demand for easy and convenient travel continues... View Article

Thermal breaking in cladding and modern construction

With the European Commission for Energy stating that buildings are responsible for 40% of energy consumption and 36% of CO2 emissions in Europe, it has never been more important for architects to look for energy efficient solutions when designing buildings.... View Article

LED by efficiency & style

Kitchens and bathrooms are increasingly being used for more than just their functionality. Dave Simpson of YESSS Electrical looks at how recent lighting developments can be harnessed to maximise a room’s enjoyment. The 2016 Kitchen Trend Report, from interior design... View Article