Features Articles

Robert Flello at the Brick Development Association explores how clay bricks combine tradition with design flexibility, offering architects greater freedom. Few materials have shaped the built environment as profoundly as clay brick. Recognisable across centuries of construction, it embodies continuity,... View Article

Laura Light, Concept Design Team Leader at Interface, explains how incorporating biophilic design in the workplace beyond planting alone can not only promote wellbeing for staff, but also nurture productivity for clients. Organisations are increasingly acknowledging that workplace design plays... View Article

Bradley Hirst of Knauf Insulation explains why designers must uplift thermal standards ahead of the Future Homes Standard, in order to futureproof homes. The Future Homes Standard (FHS) is still working its way through consultation at the time of writing,... View Article

David Patrick at Dimplex explains why key decisions around heating, hot water and comfort cooling must now be considered holistically at the masterplanning stage – including electricity load implications – rather than left until detailed design. For architects working on... View Article

Richard Tocher at Permarock explains how facade system suppliers can bring greater benefits if engaged at the earliest stages of new build or refurb projects. It’s well understood that an externally insulated facade, when properly designed and installed, can yield... View Article

Josh Collins at Altecnic Ltd explains the vital role of heat networks in the UK’s journey towards net zero and how architects could be key to ensuring their adoption. The UK’s Energy Act 2023 paved the way for a new... View Article

Kinley’s Sol Russel assesses the importance of utilising sustainable urban design solutions – to mitigate the urban heat island effect, improve air quality, and create more liveable urban environments. While sustainability is rapidly becoming a major consideration of building design... View Article

Rebecca Goldsmith at Knauf explains how expectations are now higher for inclusive bathrooms in high-rise multi-occupancy buildings, which are often where requirements for safety, acoustics, thermal performance and durability are tested. High-rise multi-occupancy buildings (HRMOs) now face unique regulatory obligations... View Article

Paul Smith of the Rooflight Association gives insights from a white paper showing how rooflights optimise daylight in large commercial buildings, to boost wellbeing, energy efficiency, and asset value, and offers some design strategies. The Rooflight Association commissioned a white... View Article

Ashley Cooper from WMS Underfloor Heating explores the latest developments surrounding the Future Homes Standard, and highlights why selecting suppliers who are ready for collaboration is crucial to achieving the low-carbon transition. Marking a decisive shift for the sector, the... View Article