Recovery efforts in Oklahoma City are now underway following the devastation that was caused by a 1.3-mile-wide tornado. Along with a school, which was entirely destroyed, the residents of Moore saw their homes torn apart – it is estimated some 13,000 buildings were affected and at least 24 people have been announced dead. Our thoughts go out to the community, which must now endure the painstaking task of rebuilding homes and lives.

Although no restitution for the damage caused, there are a number of organisations on hand to help with the aftermath and aid the rebuild process. Architecture for Humanity is just one not-for-profit organisation in the process of developing its long-term response to the Oklahoma disaster. The agency helps to support local and regional construction professionals and ensures communities are left safer and stronger. For more information on the service and pledge your support, visit www.architectureforhumanity.org

Meanwhile in this issue, FC&A profiles a flexible design concept, which has been implemented for Miscrosoft Research’s new HQ in Cambridge. At the heart of the build is a commitment to sustainability achieving a BREEAM Excellent rating. Also in this month’s edition, aluminium facade systems specialist Technal unveils its redevelopment project at Yarm School, which has delivered state-of-the-art teaching accommodation and an outstanding venue.

I hope you enjoy this issue. To access all the latest features and supplier information in this month’s issue, don’t forget you can download, free of charge, FC&A’s dedicated state-of-the-art app for smart phones and tablets! Concise and user-friendly, this resource is ideal for architects and specifiers on the move and need information and knowledge fast. Simply scan the code on the reader response card to start downloading.