Ambitious plans

Lawrence Turner of planning consultants Boyer discusses how the revised NPPF aims to meet Labour’s ambitious housing targets, from brownfield passports to grey belts. Following Angela Rayner’s promise in July 2024 to spearhead a ‘decade of renewal’ with an ambitious... View Article
How to build greener homes

How to build greener homes

The climate crisis demands urgent action, explains Philippa Hoy of sustainability consultant Bioregional. She gives the case for the One Planet Living concept, and looks at how embracing sustainable design and low-carbon solutions can meet developers’ imperatives as well as... View Article

Converts to the Passivhaus way

The completion of one couple’s project has brought joy and a sense of achievement, delivering more living space, greater energy efficiency and a comfortable environment to suit their needs. TEXT JESS UNWIN IMAGES JANE SIMPSON Where once stood a tired... View Article
Take the first step

Take the first step

A staircase can be far more than a way of connecting storeys. Tom Blakeman of Winthill Engineering explains what makes a successful staircase and considers practical and aesthetic factors. Investing in a custom-designed staircase which suits your needs and your... View Article

A highland hideaway

For many self-builders, the prospect of a steep sloping site surrounded by the inaccessible Scottish Highlands might feel overwhelming, but for Suzanne and Mark McPhillips, it was a chance to put their experience as architectural designers to good use. TEXT... View Article

The rise of seamless wall panels

Offering ease of installation and aesthetic flexibility Amanda Mills of SFA Saniflo UK (Kinedo) explains why seamless wall panels are emerging as an alternative to traditional tiling, painting or wallpaper. Today’s self-builders and renovators demand high-quality, efficient project solutions. This... View Article

Interior Inspiration: Lighting

Lighting is arguably one of the most important considerations for your home, given its ability to impact wellbeing and alter the mood of the room. Find inspiration with our selection of products, from table lamps and outdoor lighting to statement... View Article

Selfbuilder Diaries… the next chapter

The Selfbuilder catches up with Olly and Veronika Stothert who are building their family home and overcoming challenges like clay soil, financial hurdles, and self-building logistics, while balancing professional expertise and hands-on work for a sustainable, personalised space. “And… Action!”... View Article

An auspicious decision

When James and Amy Savage moved from Hong Kong to Wiltshire, they took a chance on a poorly converted byre, transforming it into a unique, futureproofed home. TEXT ALEXANDRA PRATT IMAGES CHARLES EMERSON Relocating between continents isn’t an easy thing... View Article

ZIGURAT launches online master’s in AI in Construction

ZIGURAT Institute of Technology is announcing the launch of the world’s first global online Master’s in Artificial Intelligence for Architecture & Construction. With an international focus, the programme explores the most advanced applications of AI in Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC), and... View Article

A. Proctor Group names new National Sales Manager

The A. Proctor Group is delighted to promote Margaret Airth to the position of National Sales Manager, effective immediately. In her new role, reporting to Sales Director John Johnston, Margaret will oversee the team of Regional Sales Managers, providing them... View Article

MSP Capital Appoints Adam Tovey as Commercial Director

MSP Capital proudly announces Adam Tovey’s appointment as Commercial Director, marking his second promotion in two years. Since joining in 2010, Adam has excelled in roles including Valuation Director and Director of Risk and Underwriting, contributing to major client portfolios... View Article

Industry reacts to National Planning Policy Framework changes

The construction industry has reacted with a range of positive and negative statements to the changes announced to the National Planning Policy Framework, which could have major implications for the housebuilding sector in 2025, although there remain several areas which... View Article

Tender prices up by 0.8%, reports BCIS

Tender prices increased by an estimated average of 0.8% between 3Q2024 and 4Q2024, according to the latest data from the Building Cost Information Service (BCIS). The increase resulted in 2.3% annual growth in the BCIS All-in Tender Price Index, down from a peak... View Article