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

Culture change on compliance

The Building Safety Act is forcing culture change across construction. Ross Finnie of Accuroof (formerly SIG Design & Technology) shares the effects on the building envelope sector and the implications for architects While it became law in 2022, the Building... View Article

The Phoenix, Lewes: a first look at the future

Kathryn Firth of Arup reveals a groundbreaking residential scheme in East Sussex that seeks to turn the drivers of climate emergency and sustainability into opportunities for better design and placemaking in shared amenities, plus affordable living Now granted planning as... View Article

The growing demand for SuDs

With UK weather seemingly wetter than ever and flooding causing problems across the country, demand for sustainable drainage systems has never been higher. Hannah Hyslop of Cemex discusses the role of permeable paving Increased urbanisation and construction, such as impermeable... View Article

Ask the Architect: Gillian Burgis Smith

Gillian Burgis Smith details how she became an architect, overcoming some outdated industry mindsets and major health obstacles; and how she has positively harnessed her own experience to create inclusive environments for others What made you want to become an... View Article