Hertford hub’s second act

A renovation of a theatre and cinemas complex in Hertford by cultural sector experts Bennetts Associates has created a riverside hub with new openings both theatrically, and for the community. James Parker reports Opening this summer, BEAM transforms Hertford’s existing... View Article

Cladding comes of age

Rainscreen cladding has been put under immense scrutiny post-Grenfell. While manufacturers have worked hard to regain trust, architects have become much more sophisticated when it comes to material specification. Andy Thomas of Vivalda Group discusses the current key trends The... View Article

What lies beneath?

Julian Thurbin of Wallbarn explores the key factors to consider when specifying the infrastructure beneath decking or paving that may be hidden, but is essential A well-designed, specified and installed decking or paving area can form the crowning glory of... View Article

Skilling up to design sustainable timber buildings

  Andrew Orriss from the Structural Timber Association says that with the Government’s Timber in Construction Policy Roadmap pinpointing skills as one of the key themes to address, the industry needs to take a series of steps According to the... View Article

Ask the Architect: Jane Duncan

Former RIBA president, founder of her own practice and recipient of an OBE for diversity, Jane Duncan answers ADF’s questions about what continues to inspire her What was the highlight of your career as a designer? Most of my professional... View Article

From standard ’80s to solar temple

Ruth Slavid reports on how Scott Brownrigg salvaged the ‘bones’ of a typical 1980s commercial building in Bristol to create an understated, sleek facility with greater capacity, and passive design measures to sustain it into the future The new Aztec... View Article

The handmade tale

Jason Hughes of Imperial Bricks looks at how architects are embracing the opportunities offered by the latest ranges in brick products, blends and finishes Bricks have long been used by architects to add interest to ‘basic construction.’ Durable and practical,... View Article

Scots take the Passivhaus road with new standard

This Summer, the Scottish Government is due to consult on the “Scottish equivalent to the Passivhaus standard,” as a compulsory requirement for all new homes. This represents a significant shift, with modelling from the Passivhaus Trust suggesting that heating demand... View Article

Ready, steady, play!

Andrew Wood of ESP Play discusses the importance for the physical and mental health of children of planning inclusive and high quality playgrounds Ensuring equitable access to inclusive and high quality play spaces is crucial for nurturing healthy, resilient communities.... View Article

An education in aesthetics

Flooring in education is becoming a question of aesthetics, with schools and colleges giving more consideration to its importance in creating inspiring learning environments. Jake Parks of IVC Commercial explains how great design plus safety and practicality can be achieved... View Article

Why ventilation must be integrated earlier

Jason Bennett of indoor climate solutions provider Zehnder Group UK explores why including the consideration of heating and ventilation systems at design stages is the most effective approach, but it’s being overlooked Traditionally when designing properties, heating and ventilation systems... View Article

A sound footing for learning

Schools are hubs of learning, yet the effectiveness of teaching depends on an often-overlooked factor. Michael Anderson of Zentia discuss the how the acoustic environment is crucial for optimal education, and the guidance available The quality of sound within a... View Article

Include sensory sanctuaries

Catherine Helliker of Danfloor discusses harnessing the power of carpets for creating inclusive education environments suitable for all to use In the dynamic field of education design, the significance of creating inclusive spaces for neurodivergent individuals cannot be overstated. Among... View Article

Practice Profile: RX Architects

After working on projects in London and the south east for several years, Rob Pollard and Derek Rankin decided their true calling was to found a resi-focused practice in historic Rye. Roseanne Field reports on their successful partnership, and varied... View Article

Clerkenwell Design Week expands its offer for 2024

Clerkenwell Design Week made a triumphant return to London between 21-23 May, marking its 15th year as a global design festival. Building upon its 2023 edition, which drew over 37,000 visitors, CDW elevated the experience with new venues, expanded exhibition... View Article

Answering the call for adaptable further education facilities

Andrew Baker of Rio Architects looks at how further education providers are calling for adaptability in their buildings, and how designers can offer unified, coherent and practical facilities for student, giving a recent Welsh example Ongoing reforms in post-16 education... View Article

Learning from the past

Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios designed a replacement primary school in south London which builds on the features created over time in its predecessor, and celebrates its mixed community. Jayne Dowle reports When Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios (FCBStudios) won the competition... View Article

Up for a night out

London’s Camden Market has its share of characterful drinking establishments, so to attract visitors to a new terrace bar crowning a historic building, playfully nostalgic design moves within a contrasting light structure were in order. James Parker reports Camden in... View Article