Features Articles

Tim Vincent of Rockwool explains why specifiers should consider non-combustible stone wool insulation in multi-storey buildings. Buildings over 18 metres in height present numerous challenges when it comes to insulation requirements and fire safety standards. Given that most fires occur... View Article

Iain Fairnington of the A.Proctor Group, discusses how the performance of the building envelope can be improved through airtight membranes. The need for airtightness is driven by the global challenge to reduce carbon emissions and the drive to create more... View Article

Nigel Ostime of Hawkins\Brown Architects and chair of the RIBA Client Liaison Group discusses the group’s just-published industry survey, which has important revelations on what architects do well, but also what they must improve on The best projects generally come... View Article

Oliver Ronald of The Boss Design Group explains how the emergence of the concept of settings is influencing workplace design to benefit performance Workplace design and furniture specification are no longer just about the space available. The modern office is... View Article

David Clarke of IDSystems looks at the options for specifiers when it comes to choosing glazed doors to bring the outside in Bridging the divide between indoors and outdoors is one of the main reasons homeowners seek to employ ‘open... View Article

Designing washrooms for multi-ability use is a sensitive process and the influx of products combining style and substance means architects are spoilt for choice. Lisa Ward of Bristan offers expert guidance When planning a residential development, architects face the challenge... View Article

Architects are increasingly looking to tie washroom design into the overall look of a building’s interior – and high-spec products are becoming more commonplace. Trevor Bowers of Washroom Washroom explores the diverse range of solutions on offer. By continually pushing... View Article

The movement to build ‘eco’ has led to greater focus on the importance of insulation, but the industry needs to ensure projects are built ‘as designed’ says Recticel’s Peter Wilcox. The final Evidence Review Report produced by the Zero Carbon... View Article

As technology evolves, glass continues to be seen at the core of many exciting and iconic buildings, enabling achitects to achieve their goals. Phil Savage of Pilkington discusses the growing importance of glass in modern building design. A look across... View Article

Jeremy Cassady of Securikey looks at how modular vault systems can provide an effective, easy-to-install bespoke system for high security applications. When clients are storing expensive equipment and valuables, sensitive documents and drugs or chemicals, the risks are extremely high, both in... View Article

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

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 to heat... View Article

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

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

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

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

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

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