Features Articles

It is well established that maximising natural light boosts wellbeing and transforms living spaces. Victoria Brocklesby of Origin shares expert tips on using glazing and design to brighten homes beautifully. Natural light in a home has all kinds of benefits,... View Article

Stephen Johnson of Quooker delves into how boiling water taps are helping architects design kitchens that reduce waste, conserve energy, and support sustainability for users, without compromising on style. As sustainability becomes a central consideration in architectural design, attention is... View Article

Helen Hewitt of the British Woodworking Federation challenges outdated myths about specification of timber, which belie its durability and high-performance credentials. Timber is considered the oldest building material in the world, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood. Despite... View Article

With the priority now inclusive design for all, evacuation lifts offer the chance for architects to go ‘beyond compliance,’ says Nick Mellor of LEIA. The introduction of the Building Safety Act 2022 and updates to BS 9991 and Approved Document... View Article

Andy Lake of Pyroguard explains the impact of the latest Building Regulations & fire safety legislation updates on glazed balconies for high rise buildings. In recent years, fire safety regulations in the construction industry have undergone significant changes, following the... View Article

Chris Stammers of the BEAMA’s Underfloor Heating Group explores the key benefits and latest research around low temperature heat emitters, and how they can support specification choices that futureproof residential projects. With the Future Homes and Buildings Standard (FHS) due... View Article

Neil Turner of Ecological Building Systems explores how Environmental Product Declarations are helping the construction industry move towards its goals of low carbon building, by providing verified information on environmental impact. The UK construction industry is working towards achieving net... View Article

Robert Flello of the Brick Development Association (BDA) explores how locally sourced clay bricks offer a lower-carbon, resilient solution for sustainable construction, blending heritage with environmental responsibility in modern building. From residential to commercial buildings, the UK’s built environment is... View Article

Stephen Malkin of Promat UK explains why a complete system approach to fire resistant glazing design and specification is key, post-Building Safety Act. Building products of all kinds are understandably being subjected to much greater scrutiny since the publication of... View Article

New-build homes are more energy efficient, as a result are prone to overheat. Steve Pearce of Vent-Axia explores how architects can use smart ventilation strategies to combat this, and support the 2050 net zero goal. Traditionally, UK homes did not... View Article

Holly Rivers of Heckmondwike FB discusses how noise in schools impacts learning and teaching, highlighting the need for better acoustic standards and the role of carpets in creating quieter environments that allow pupils better focus. In recent years, research has... View Article

Jonathan Lowy of VMZinc tracks how zinc has played a key role in iconic buildings from Paris’ monuments to modern campuses and healthcare facilities – and how this durable and highly recyclable material is now culturally recognised by UNESCO. Zinc... View Article

Vivalda discusses how a creative cladding system transformed a Northern Irish primary school, using engraved volcanic rock panels to create a striking facade that celebrates diversity, local history, and hope. Creative cladding has been instrumental in the aesthetic of a... View Article