The climate challenge

Paddy Leighton of Icynene UK explains how new high performance insulation systems can contribute towards combatting climate change The Committee for Climate Change Report ‘UK Housing: Fit for the Future,’ states that better standards of insulation in new build and... View Article

Make windows a safe bet

Amy Blount of Reynaers at Home looks at the key considerations when specifying windows for your build – including security as well as material choices and installation issues At their core, windows provide one of any property’s most vital functions... View Article

Get wise on insurance options

Self-Build Zone discusses the different types of insurance available for selfbuild and renovation projects, from builders and site insurance to warranties, and explains why knowledge is so crucial Doing a self-build doesn’t actually mean you have to be building your... View Article

Bound to be a success

James Newton of Sureset explains why a resin-bound driveway could be the perfect choice for your build, whether your priority is achieving kerb appeal, or more practical features for everyday life Do you want to be the envy of all... View Article

Contemporary kitchens

With new kitchen trends emerging continuously, inspired by a variety of influences, Wren Kitchens’ Darren Watts reveals his top 10 kitchen trends for self-builders to consider in 2020 The kitchen plays a vital role in the home – for many... View Article

Future fire compliance

Nick Rutter of FireAngel explains how to achieve ‘constant compliance’ in fire safety, exploring some of the intelligent solutions that can adapt to future needs. Following the Hackitt Review, many developers are looking to adopt its principles to ensure the... View Article

Open to smart & sustainable appliances

Phil Slater of Whirlpool UK looks at how sustainability drivers plus a trend for open plan living are being supported by innovation in modern appliances. Homebuyers seek the latest kitchen appliances and technology. With more households opting for open-plan living,... View Article

Stand out with a canopy

Phil Nash from Scotts of Thrapston discusses the many different styles and materials available for porch canopies, and the benefits they can bring Porch canopies come in many different styles and materials, are easy to install, and can add both... View Article

Fire compliance for balconies explained

Nick Haughton of Sapphire explores the key fire compliance considerations when specifying balconies for housebuilding projects. Balconies are a cost-effective way to add square footage to apartments and give residents coveted private outdoor access. Studies have shown that access to... View Article

View Point: Professor Ruth Dalton

Having set up the first School of Architecture at Lancaster University, Professor Ruth Dalton explains how the school’s ‘radical creativity with a conscience’ motto embeds key principles into innovative teaching practice While setting up the new school of architecture at... View Article

Learn from the experts at the RCI Show

The Roofing, Cladding & Insulation Show (The RCI Show) returns to the Ricoh Arena in Coventry this month, providing dedicated conference sessions delivering the latest trends, technologies, legislation and issues influencing the market. The RCI Show is claimed by the... View Article

The whole nine yards

A development of nine contemporary homes near Gosport, Hampshire, have been arranged around a historic military facility to offer expansive bay views. Jack Wooler visited this meticulously-designed scheme. Approaching these striking new buildings from a distance, David Craddock, director at project... View Article

A showcase of innovation

James Parker reports on the design development of the Manchester Engineering Campus, a major new teaching and research facility for Manchester which puts cutting-edge engineering on show in new ways, and connects the city’s industrial past with its future The... View Article

Addressing the construction climate emergency

Tom Bovan of Armatherm looks at the carbon agenda in the light of 2020 and 2050 emissions targets, and how insulation advances are key to innovating in building envelopes to assist the sector towards its goals In recent years there’s... View Article

Groundworks for private pumping stations

When gravity drainage from a property is not possible, a pumping station is usually required to pump wastewater and sewage to the public sewer. David Johnson of Pump Technology explores the correct specifications for pumping stations For single or multiple... View Article

Looks that last

Matthew Brook of Moduleo explains how luxury vinyl floors can help to ‘futureproof’ a property According to the Hiscox Renovations and Extensions Report 2018, 53 per cent of homeowners have carried out home improvement projects in the last 10 years,... View Article

Finishes for the future

Steve Grimwood of Osmo UK provides an insight into the various benefits of wood flooring, and why specifiers should choose natural finish options Wooden flooring is a beautiful feature of any home, but it is important to understand that as... View Article