It always strikes me how projects in the UK and wider Europe are continually pushing the boundaries of design and engineering. From the exterior design statements right through to the environmental standards and interior styling, the benchmark being set by leaders in architecture and construction is constantly being raised.

In this month’s edition of FC&A, we’ve profiled some of the industry’s most celebrated buildings at present. On page 14, you’ll find a summary of the 12 projects shortlisted for the RIBA West Midlands Awards 2017. Over the years, the awards have become the benchmark in identifying the very best standards in architecture across the West Midlands. Meanwhile on page 18, we take a look at the renowned David Attenborough Building, which has recently scooped three awards for its outstanding refurbishment.

Elsewhere in this issue, Colorminium showcases its stunning project on The Curve – a flagship public building which marks a significant investment in Slough’s regeneration, ISD Solutions unveils six ways to avoid green roof disasters and Jonathan Hyndman, Partner at solicitor firm Rosling King, looks at the issues to be considered before an unpaid party suspends performance or seeks to terminate following non-payment.

This is my last issue of Future Constructor & Architect magazine, as I am moving on to pastures new. It has been a pleasure profiling so many outstanding projects in the sector, as well as seeing the industry go from strength to strength amidst turbulent times. I wish you all the very best of luck and will leave you in the capable hands of Rebecca Kemp, who will now be at the editorial helm.

I hope you enjoy this edition. Don’t forget, you can also access all of the magazine’s features, product news and supplier information at your fingertips via Future Constructor & Architect’s state-of-the-art app. To download your version free of charge, simply search ‘fc&a’ on Google play or the App Store.