Just a month into the new year, and we're already observing emerging trends in architecture and construction. Notably, surfacing is an area ripe for innovation, especially with the upcoming Surface Design Show. The event, featured in our January issue, promises exciting insights into industry advancements. We're thrilled to attend, explore the exhibits and listen in on the comprehensive seminars lined up.

In this issue, George Emms, Specification Sales Leader at Polyrey, part of Wilsonart UK, taps into the world of surfacing, specifically for refurb and retrofit projects. On page 32, he runs through the different types of suitable engineering surfaces available on the market, explains the practicality of each and covers some of the regulations frequently encountered when working on such projects.

Elsewhere in this issue, Lee Davies, Director at Attain RTC, looks at the argument of desktop studies versus physical testing, explaining all the benefits of real-life testing along the way; Colin Brown, Head of Planning & Development at Carter Jonas, offers his insights on the Revised National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF); and we talk to Will Poole-Wilson, Managing Director at Will+Partners, about his architectural journey.

Finally, be sure to explore our two featured portfolios this month. The first, Stadsljus, is an impressive 110m-tall residential tower developed by firms Cobe and Yellon. This architectural marvel, perched at the former historic gasworks site in Stockholm, is detailed on page 16. Additionally, page 18 offers insights into Artefact's Common Rooms project. This novel community space, nestled under the striking Modernist and listed St Thomas’ Church, represents a focal point in Stamford Hill's heart.

ON THE COVER:
Cobe and Yellon have been announced as winners in the competition to design Stadsljus, a new residential tower rising 110m above sea level situated on Stockholm's former historic gasworks site.

Rebecca Kemp
Editor

rebecca@redhutmedia.com