Single ply roofing systems – a sustainable alternative to metal

Hard-wearing and aesthetically pleasing, metal roof surfaces have long been a popular choice for refurbishments and new builds alike. However, these systems also include a number of potential drawbacks. Paul Martin, architectural sales manager at Langley Waterproofing Systems Ltd, looks... View Article

SFS systems: improving insulation while saving space

The demand for increasing levels of thermal performance is driven by both the market and regulatory pressures and can be answered by innovations in Structural Framing Systems (SFS) technology, writes Knauf The advantages of SFS methods of construction in terms... View Article

Putting train manufacturing back on track

This summer a new factory opens in the North East of England – the first large-scale railway train building facility to be built in Britain for more than a century. Ray Philpott finds out what makes it special. Aswathe of... View Article

The art of stairs

Architectural engineering elegance and intelligent design integrates into its surrounding environment transforming architecture into art. CANAL Architectural explores the art of stairs. Every piece of architecture should be as unique as the person who initially designed it. The ability to... View Article

Development draws home heating direct from the Thames

Kingston Heights, a pioneering mixed-used development near Kingston-upon-Thames’ town centre has won the prestigious Best Green Scheme award at a national housing awards ceremony.  The awards ceremony organised by 24 Housing magazine took place in Birmingham and was attended by... View Article

Autumn Statement reforms stamp duty

Housing commentators had to wait until almost the end of the government’s Autumn Statement before George Osborne announced major reforms to stamp duty. Before he detailed the changes to the threshold payments the Chancellor explained: “I am introducing today a... View Article

Mortgage Advice Bureau comments on the ONS House Price Index

Brian Murphy, Head of Lending at Mortgage Advice Bureau (MAB), comments: “House prices have experienced a slight slowdown in recent months, with seasonal variations as well as tighter mortgage regulation reining in property prices. However, average prices are still well... View Article

Council planning budgets should be ring fenced, says FMB

Council planning departments should be treated as front line services and protected from local authority spending cuts, according to the Federation of Master Builders (FMB). Commenting on the recommendations of the Communities and Local Government Select Committee Report on the... View Article

Handy Cross hub development

In Wycombe, proposals from the district council are heavily focused on retail and the authority is hoping that by taking control itself of the flagship £150 million Handy Cross development, that this will change perceptions of the Buckinghamshire town. By... View Article

A new dimension: Adapting design for educational environments

By Robert Mustoe, managing director of the Senator Group Understanding the importance of individuality is paramount, whether it’s in an educational environment or a Silicon Valley boardroom. By personalising the ways in which we approach tasks, we increase the potential... View Article

Abode – urban living in a rural setting

Joint winner of the Sunday Times British Homes Awards’ Development of the Year (with more than 100 homes) Countryside’s Abode community proves that volume housing does not have to look and feel like a faceless executive estate This exemplary development,... View Article

More than just child’s play

For homebuilders targeting family property purchasers with young children, the addition of a play area to a new housing development can be a contentious issue. Make the right decision and a developer can create a high quality, attractive and stimulating... View Article

Crest do the double

Crest Nicholson has been crowned as large Housebuilder of the Year at the 2014 Housebuilder Awards and scooped the Sustainable Housebuilder of the Year title and Best regeneration scheme for its Park Central community in Birmingham. This impressive award haul... View Article