COVID-19 Pandemic to Supercharge the Use of MMC in Commercial Projects
Modern methods of construction (MMC) represents the future of the industry and has never been more vital – COVID-19 has impacted the industry and its prospects, while productivity, lagging before the pandemic, must be ramped up. The UK is also targeting ambitious sustainability targets, with construction playing a key role in driving emissions down. MMC is key to both our post-pandemic recovery and success in meeting sustainability goals, explains Mark Lowry, CEO at The McAvoy Group.
Subfloor Preparation to Avoid Floor Failure
Failing to undertake proper subfloor preparation before the application of new floorcoverings can result in an unsightly finish or even complete floor failure, leading to costly remedial work. Fortunately, this can be avoided by adhering to just a few basic principles of subfloor preparation, including the need to guard against excess subfloor moisture – the leading cause of subfloor failure. Stephen Boulton, Technical Service Manager at leading manufacturer of subfloor preparation products, F. Ball and Co., goes through these processes.
Looking Beyond Compliance to 360º Safety Responsibility in Cladding Specification
Brian G Newell, Founder and CEO of cladding specialist, Shackerley, discusses the need for cladding specification decisions to be made based on a full understanding of all safety criteria, rather than ticking a box for compliance.
Upstairs, Downstairs
Staircases are one of the most vital transition elements in architecture; they are designed to connect two spaces, whether it is interior to exterior or different internal levels. The positioning of a staircase in a multi-level building will always be vital, but now it is just as essential to create a design visual and consider the staircase as a main feature. Using metal mesh for the balustrades or panel railings on the staircase is not only a great option for safety but also pushes the design boundaries, writes Anthony Millington, Business Development Manager at Amron Architectural.
On Site with Sykes
COVID-19 has created problems in every sector of life, and the building industry is no exception. However, it is also true that with a crisis like this, people think differently, and lateral thinking certainly creates new ideas and opportunities.
Why the Construction Industry Still Has a Long Road Ahead to Ensure Building Safety
Given the recent reports that building products used in Grenfell should never have been specified, Chief Strategy Officer at NBS, Richard Waterhouse, explains why the construction industry has many more lessons to learn before it can regain its integrity.
Digging for Answers
Hudson Lambert, Director at Safeguard Europe, answers some of the most common queries arising from waterproofing basements – whether new or refurbishment.
Think Outside the Box
Shenzhen Shuiwan 1979 Life Plaza is nestled within the leafy streets that neighbour Shekou’s South Mountain. At the heart of this new development is a ‘secret garden’ floating over three floors of retail space that sits at the summit of a grand atrium and offers visitors a pleasant retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The Meeting of Two Cultures
Breitenbach Landscape Hotel proposes a holistic and a true ecotourism experience in Alsace, inspired by Scandinavian traditions and building on the region’s culinary, wellness and nature opportunities. Perched on the heights of the Alsatian village of Breitenbach, the landscape hotel 48° Nord reinterprets the traditional Scandinavian hytte, a place of retreat and reconnection with wild nature. At the heart of a protected Natura 2000 site, the project was designed to fit into a preserved setting without ever disturbing it.
Designer in Profile - Hala ElKhorazaty
Celebrating a decade of working within the architectural industry, Hala ElKhorazaty, Senior Interior Designer at Perkins&Will London, looks back on her past 10 years in the sector and describes when her interest in architecture and design began.
