The June 2019 edition of Future Constructor & Architect.

Andy Smith, Head of Business Development at Caledonian Modular, looks at why offsite and modular construction are the only way to solve the UK’s housing crisis.

There are a lot of advantages to open-plan office environments so long as the space is designed in the right way, with one eye on acoustics. Simon Boocock, Managing Director of CRL, looks at the benefits and possible solutions for creating a harmonious open-plan environment.

To have an effective and nurturing workspace, a business must take into consideration three things: furniture, office environment and treatment of staff.

The BSI’s recent update of the domestic fire detection and alarm system standard, specifically Part 6 of BS 5839, outlines the code of practice for the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of fire detection and fire alarm systems in domestic properties. Here Ian Ballinger, Certification Manager for FireAngel, outlines the key updates for professionals.

There are many reasons for buying a small house. While cost is commonly cited, for some, an excess of space is simply unnecessary, whether for having fewer personal possessions, a dislike for housekeeping or a desire to minimise one’s environmental impact. For one couple, a small house meant the opportunity to live in one of the liveliest neighbourhoods in Brussels: Flagey Square.

Ryan Latham, Senior Marketing Executive for 3B Training, has experienced firsthand how businesses can benefit from hiring ex-military personnel. Here he takes a closer look at what it’s like working in the military, what motivates members of the Armed Forces and why transitioning to a career in construction is the ideal next step for a leaver.

Data from the Office of National Statistics published in 2017 revealed the risk of suicide among low-skilled male laborers were three times higher than the national average. Furthermore, a CIOB report revealed 70% of construction employees suffered from stress-related mental health conditions as a direct result of working in the industry. Stuart Russell, Commercial Manager at CPI Euromix, discusses the steps construction companies can take to identify the signs before it’s too late.

Nigel Morrey, Technical Director at Etex Building Performance, discusses the need for cultural change in the industry to deliver safer homes.

The multi-million-pound refurbishment of an iconic memorial in New York required design, specification and application expertise. Stuart Hicks from cold-applied liquid waterproofing specialist, Kemper System, explains the process.