Security without compromise

STS202 is changing the game for security standards across the construction sector. Ash Pearson from Jack Aluminium talks us through the specification and what security benefits it can offer for buildings Security should always be a concern, but never an... View Article

Timeless architectural copper

Copper continues to intrigue and inspire architects. With limitless possibilities for innovative contemporary design, copper also provides exemplary recyclability, sustainability and longevity explains Chris Hodson from Aurubis As one of our oldest building materials, copper’s unique, timeless architectural qualities are... View Article

Screen test

In creating a unique digital art school for Manchester, Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios enlivened windowless facades with a giant LED screen displaying students’ work, surrounded by bespoke, pleated aluminium. James Parker reports The Manchester Metropolitan University School of Digital Arts... View Article

The sustainability of galvanized steel

Galvanized steel is an integral part of everyday life and is all around us. But how does its prevalence today affect the environment of the future? How sustainable is it? What role does it play in the circular economy? And... View Article

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

The Queen has died at the age of 96 after a reign of 70 years. A statement from the King said: “The death of my beloved Mother, Her Majesty The Queen, is a moment of the greatest sadness for me... View Article

The False Banana Pavilion by FleaFollyArchitects

Designed and built by FleaFollyArchitects, The False Banana Pavilion has taken up residence within the grounds of Kew Wakehurst National Trust site in West Sussex, England. The pavilion is one of five temporary installations that are located across 500 acres... View Article

The changing faces of facades

Philip West from Spanwall discusses the future of facades and how technology and legislation have created a new set of design expectations throughout the industry In the wake of unprecedented change, manufacturing firms across the globe are being forced to... View Article

A durable sustainability case

Sustainability needs to encompass long-term durability factors in addition to embodied energy to provide an accurate picture. Keith Aldis of BDA (Brick Development Association) explains how achieving this bolsters the eco case for brick When considering the materials that may... View Article

Sustainable fire safety

Kelly Westwood from Knauf Insulation discusses the critical need to combine fire safety and sustainability in buildings of the future COP26 in Glasgow brought a renewed focus and urgency to the long-term sustainability of the built environment. This is reflected... View Article

Striking a balance

The importance of ventilation and ensuring a healthy and comfortable interior environment is an essential part of building design. Andy Moul from Construction Specialties (CS) looks at factors which need to be taken into consideration when specifying external louvres as part... View Article

Under the skin

The Royal College of Physicians’ new WELL Platinum teaching base in Liverpool has been designed with an appropriately scientific approach, resulting in one of the world’s healthiest buildings, including a bespoke patterned envelope. James Parker reports A medical education facility... View Article

Creative cavities

The requirement for an open cavity in ventilated facade systems can present a challenge when it comes to ensuring the passive fire safety of the building envelope. Graham Laws from Siderise Insulation looks at the issues, and suggests solutions Also... View Article

In celebration of regulation

Dr Jonathan Evans from Ash & Lacy says that, far from stifling innovation in envelope design and cavity trays, the recent safety regulations actually put the UK on the verge of a ‘meritocracy’ that will benefit future buildings Contained in... View Article

A concrete idea for efficient builds

Chris Stride from the Insulating Concrete Formwork Association explains why this type of modern method of construction could provide the answers for your self-build when it comes to speed, efficiency and air-tightness Building your home can be a challenging task.... View Article

Sustainability strengths

Nobody doubts the strength of steel as a construction material, but its qualities in the field of sustainability may be less immediately obvious, says Russell Ager from Crittall Windows It’s steel’s strength that makes the key contribution to steel’s credentials... View Article

Timber – the net zero hero?

The road to net zero is now set, and pressure is mounting on the construction sector to deliver. For housebuilders, choosing to use sustainable materials such as timber should be an easy decision; Andrew Carpenter of the Structural Timber Association... View Article

Bringing glass back 
into balconies

Andy Lake of Pyroguard explores how glass can be used safely in balcony applications, as well as the various factors for housebuilders and developers to consider to ensure the right solution is specified. It’s no secret that housebuilders and developers... View Article