Graffiti – the word conjures up images of meaningless squiggles and shapes on public buildings and structures that you may have seen from a passing train, on a street corner or down an alley. The negative connotations have in the past encouraged us to frown upon street art and, up until recently, made us unwilling to see the potential it can offer to community spaces, when applied tastefully and diligently.

Perhaps we have Banksy to thank for the overhaul of the term ‘graffiti’ but regardless, the power of art has been unlocked and we are now more open to public art and creative expression, allowing our dull and dreary spaces to be transformed into vibrant attractive cultural focal points.

Turn to page 16 to read more on this topic from Kia Knight, Director and Founder of 1-of-1Art Group, who urges developers not to overlook public art when it comes to shaping and transforming communities, and creating cultural spaces.

Also in this edition, we reflect on the tangible impact 5G will have on the construction sector, the Concrete Block Association discusses how concrete blocks fit into the circular economy and CRL Europe explains why glass is becoming the material of choice for facade refurbishment.

I hope you enjoy this issue. Don’t forget, you can also access all of the magazine’s features, product news and supplier information on FC&A’s user-friendly and engaging website. Fully responsive, the website allows you to read all the latest stories on-the-go either on your phone or tablet. Simply search www.fca-magazine.com.