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Featured Projects
Ombria Algarve - Building a Greener Future: The Importance of Bioclimatic Architecture 30 - 31
Framing the Urban Edge: Griffin Square, Montreal 36 - 37, 38
Sauska Tokaj Winery by BORD: A Floating Landmark in Hungary 44 - 45, 46
Featured
Project News 04 - 05, 08 - 09
Latest News 06
Fire Safety & Security News 12
An Interview with Marcus Steffen of Akarui Studio on Lighting in Hospitality 20 - 21, 22 - 23
Coatings, Sealants & Paints News 26
A Lighting Scheme to Celebrate Community and Culture by Zumtobel and Thorn 34
Case Study: Neolith Surfaces at Osteria del Mare, Covent Garden 42
Events & Awards News 48
Training & Education News 52
EXEMPLAR EDUCATION HUB FOR DAGENHAM’S PIONEERING ORGANIC FARM
Dagenham Farm, a flagship project by social enterprise Growing Communities, is set to gain a purpose-built education hub after winning planning approval. Since 2012, the former concrete site has been transformed into a thriving organic farm, providing sustainable food, green space, and vital educational opportunities for the local community.
Despite its success, the farm’s outreach has been constrained by limited facilities. To address this, architectural practice Ackroyd Lowrie has led a probono design process to deliver an exemplar hub that will expand capacity and improve accessibility.
The approved scheme includes a new classroom—tripling existing teaching space and supporting around 100 school visits annually—together with a welcoming timber canopy
entrance, outdoor handwashing stations with varied sink heights, a repurposed classroom as reception, new WC and accessible facilities, and a shade-giving tree to enhance the landscape.
Ackroyd Lowrie’s Jon Ackroyd and Charlotte Staton worked closely with Growing Communities to ensure the design reflects the organisation’s mission to build a healthier, fairer food system. The project team also includes Hybrid Planning & Development and LSY Engineering Consultants, who joined in donating their expertise.
Once complete, the hub will strengthen the farm’s role as a model for sustainable urban food growing and ecological education in London.
Images: Impressions of the newly approved education hub at Growing Communities Dagenham Farm including new living classroom, visitor entrance and reception.
CÉRAGRÈS: A KEY CONTRIBUTOR TO THE REM
Céragrès, the Quebec-based specialist in highquality finishing materials, played a pivotal role in the Réseau express métropolitain (REM), Greater Montreal’s new 67-kilometre light-rail network with 26 stations. Engaged early by the architectural consortium led by Lemay, the company was tasked with selecting and developing station finishes that balance performance with design coherence.
Each of the REM’s four lines carries a distinct colour identity, a choice that demanded precision in material selection. Céragrès responded by producing terrazzoeffect porcelain floor tiles customized to each palette, alongside subway-style wall finishes in bespoke 4"x4" and 4"x12" formats. Non-slip and textured tiles were also developed to ensure accessibility and withstand the demands of high-traffic transit spaces.
Manufactured in Italy and Germany, all materials were received and quality-checked at Céragrès’ Montreal warehouses before installation across the network. The most technically demanding environments proved to be the underground stations, where Céragrès proposed large-format ceramic panels fixed on mechanical anchors—a solution more typical of exterior façades—offering both durability and ease of maintenance access.
Through this contribution, Céragrès has underscored its ability to deliver sustainable, resilient, and visually coherent solutions for one of Quebec’s most ambitious infrastructure projects.
THE DELMORE RECEIVES FOUNDATION PERMIT
The Delmore, a new oceanfront residential development in Surfside, Florida, has received its foundation permit, enabling piling works to begin once deep-soil mixing (DSM) is completed this autumn. DSM technology, led by Keller North America, stabilises coastal soils without vibration or water table disruption, creating a watertight perimeter and ensuring longterm structural integrity.
Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA), The Delmore responds directly to its beachfront setting. Extensive site analysis of climate, sea conditions and solar orientation informed a design that maximises comfort, views and environmental performance. Two residential wings are divided by a central canyon, bringing natural light into deep floorplates, while sculpted fins and curvilinear balconies create rhythm, privacy and expansive outdoor
living areas overlooking the ocean and Biscayne Bay.
The expressive façade takes cues from Miami’s Subtropical Modernism, with wide geometric shading, flowing forms and crafted details echoing the textures and colours of the surrounding dunes. Inside, bespoke interiors continue this fluid design language, enriched by artisanal craftsmanship in marquetry, stone and metalwork.
The Delmore will also feature extensive amenities, including landscaped tropical
gardens, shaded courtyards, wellness facilities, and a rooftop pool with panoramic views. Developed by DAMAC International, it marks the company’s first project in the United States.
Images: Render courtesy of DAMAC
CPMG PROVES INTERNATIONAL LEISURE EXPERTISE AFTER RESORT OPENING IN CHINA
Architectural practice CPMG has completed its first project with one of China’s leading hotel firms following the recent opening of InLong Narada Resort in the Jiangsu province of China.
Through effective collaboration between CPMG’s UK studios and its Chinese-base in Hangzhou, the practice helped redevelop a disused quarry into a luxury holiday resort by designing a brand-new reception building, 37-private hilltop villas, a luxury spa plus children’s play area and a petting zoo.
Two hours west of Shanghai, InLong Narada Resort has been designed to attract both domestic and international guests. The resort celebrates the region’s dramatic landscape while setting new standards for sustainable, experience-led tourism in China. In the Chinese language, Inlong translates
to ‘dragon valley’, which reflects the setting – as well as some of the design inspiration.
CPMG’s relationship with Narada Hotel Group dates back to April 2022, when the Nottinghamheadquartered architectural practice began working on the InLong Narada Resort masterplan. As well as the redevelopment in Jiangsu that spans 530 acres, CPMG has built an extensive portfolio of overseas work including projects in Georgia, Slovakia, Romania, Hungary, Lithuania, and Abu Dhabi.
EXPLORING AND SHAPING TOMORROW:
FUTURE BUSINESS OF ARCHITECTURE
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has launched an evidence-based, research programme exploring the future business of architecture.
Through this initiative, RIBA recognises the testing business environment the design and construction industry is currently navigating. The 2020s has been a period of uncertainty with global economic and political turbulence. For many architectural practices, it is manifesting in a downward pressure on fees combined with upward drivers on cost, making turning a profit a challenge.
Ensuring the long-term sustainability of architectural practice requires looking beyond the immediate noise and disruption of the current turmoil. By focusing on the decade to come, the Future Business of Architecture programme aims to provide the long view sharpened by the lenses of data analysis and quantitative and qualitative research. The programme will provide architects with actionable insights into opportunities and challenges.
Rooted in the RIBA strategy to ‘make the future a better place’, the research project examines how architects can be business-viable agents of change, even in a time of unprecedented technological change and ongoing economic uncertainty.
Future Business of Architecture is the second phase of the horizon-scanning programme, RIBA Horizons 2034. It draws on evidence from five sources to develop ‘future scenarios’ to help practices thrive in the next ten years: a business-focussed evaluation of RIBA Horizons 2034, expert insights, in-depth interviews, an attitudinal survey, and trend analysis.
As practices face increasingly unpredictable market conditions, the Future Business of Architecture will also help inform the debate about how to be resilient today and future-ready tomorrow. It will explore the potential of AI and other technologies to help or hinder design and business efficiencies.
MAMMOET SUCCESSFULLY RELOCATES HISTORIC KIRUNA CHURCH IN ONE PIECE
Over 1,000 hours of planning went into supporting Kiruna Church’s two-day journey to its new home.
Mammoet has completed the safe and successful relocation of the iconic Kiruna Church, one of Sweden’s most treasured architectural landmarks. The operation, which took place over two days, marks a historic moment for the town of Kiruna and showcases the power of precision engineering and collaboration.
Built in the early 20th century and once voted Sweden’s most beautiful building, Kiruna Church is one of the country’s largest wooden structures. Its relocation became necessary due to the expansion of LKAB’s Kiruna mine, which required several buildings to be moved to a newly developed city center five kilometers away.
Commissioned by civil engineering firm Veidekke and LKAB, Mammoet was entrusted with transporting the 713-tonne wooden church in one piece—a task that demanded over 1,000 hours of meticulous planning and engineering. The move, dubbed “The Great Church Walk,” drew thousands of spectators, including the King of Sweden, and was carried out with exceptional care to preserve the integrity of the fragile structure.
To ensure the church’s safety, Mammoet worked closely with Veidekke and Swedish wood engineering specialists to model and test the building’s response to lifting and transport. The operation was timed for August to avoid adverse weather conditions that could jeopardize the move.
The church was jacked up to a height of 1.3 meters and placed on steel beams supported by two trains of 28 axle lines of Self-Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMTs). A custom monitoring system developed inhouse ensured the structure remained stable throughout the journey, allowing for a maximum tilt of just 7.5 cm between sides.
The route was carefully analyzed and prepared, including temporary road widening and compacting work. Mammoet advised on these civil works and conducted road tests using SPMTs loaded with counterweights to simulate the church’s axle load.
The relocation took place during daylight hours on August 19 and 20, with the church arriving safely at its new location. Once in place, the SPMTs lowered the structure onto its new concrete foundations, completing a move that will be remembered for generations.
In the coming days, Mammoet will also relocate the church’s 90-tonne belfry using a different SPMT configuration, further contributing to the preservation of Kiruna’s cultural heritage.
CERTIFICATE 22/6185
AYERS SAINT GROSS DELIVERS TRANSFORMATIVE MASTER PLAN FOR RINGLING COLLEGE
Ayers Saint Gross has delivered a decadelong campus transformation at Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida, guided by a comprehensive master plan.
OF ART AND DESIGN
When first engaged, the campus lacked cohesion, with a mix of new and repurposed buildings. The master plan set out a vision to improve identity, connectivity, and open space, while embracing the natural asset of Whitaker Bayou. Since its inception, more than fifteen projects have been completed, reshaping the student experience and enhancing the college’s national reputation.
At the heart of the plan is the Arts Walk, a choreographed pathway linking interior
A NEW LOOK FOR HOTEL MEDITERRANEO IN RICCIONE
Overlooking Riccione’s seafront and just steps from Viale Ceccarini, Hotel Mediterraneo – an icon of the Romagna Riviera and a historic landmark for the international jet set of Italy’s “Dolce Vita” years – is undergoing an ambitious renovation, led by the engineering firm POLISTUDIO A.E.S. Società di Ingegneria S.r.l.
The project focused on the building’s exterior walls for a total of approximately 2,500 square metres and featured the installation of an
advanced ventilated façade system designed to significantly improve the structure’s thermal insulation, indoor comfort, and overall energy efficiency.
At a time when renovation means looking at architecture through a systemic lens, Hotel Mediterraneo emerges as a virtuous example of integrated design, in which technology and beauty come together harmoniously, giving the building a modern and elegant identity that strikes a balance between historical legacy and innovation.
For the hotel’s exterior cladding, POLISTUDIO A.E.S. chose Cotto d’Este’s porcelain stoneware ceramic surfaces, a benchmark of technical excellence, durability, and high-end aesthetics.
The Limestone collection, in its 14 mm thick version, offers exceptional performance in terms of mechanical strength, colour stability, water resistance, and resistance to weather conditions and sudden changes in temperature.
The project features the Clay and Oyster variants – Clay in soft, mineral tones and a Naturale finish, and Oyster with a Blazed surface that recalls the rugged and tactile beauty of the ocean floor. Rounding out the visual composition, the X-BETON collection in the DOT-50 version offers an aesthetic and architectural reinterpretation of rolled concrete.
This choice introduces a dynamic patchwork of colours and textures which gives the building a distinct and sophisticated identity.
galleries with exterior sculptures to celebrate Ringling’s creative heritage. Landscape improvements and ecological strategies, including rain gardens, permeable pavements, and living shorelines, have reinforced the college’s sustainability goals while preserving mature oak trees.
Two flagship projects illustrate the transformation. Cunniffe Commons, a 27,940 sq ft dining facility completed in 2022, is designed as a modern food hall with nine micro-restaurants reflecting global cuisines. Abundant glazing, a courtyard framed by a preserved oak, and LEED Gold certification make it a new social hub on campus.
Meanwhile, the new Greensboro Hall provides 269 student beds in a LEED Silver-certified residence. The design draws inspiration from ocean colours, incorporates artwork by alumni, and achieves 100% on-site stormwater management. Outdoor courtyards and preserved trees strengthen connections to the natural landscape.
The results have been profound: student numbers have grown by over 20%, with new academic programmes in entertainment design and virtual reality development launched. Through thoughtful planning and sustainable design, Ayers Saint Gross has established a cohesive identity and lasting legacy for Ringling College.
NEW IMAGES REVEAL SCULPTURAL DESIGN FOR ALPERTON BRIDGE
New images of the planned pedestrian and cycle bridge across the Grand Union Canal in Alperton have been unveiled, as work continues to improve accessibility and connectivity in the Brent community, as part of a wider £5 million regeneration plan.
Images released by the project’s design team, AECOM, the world’s trusted infrastructure consultants, show more clearly how the bridge will look once complete. The sculptural design will provide a more direct east-west pedestrian and cycle network in and around Alperton, connecting the Grand Union development to the towpath on the southwestern side of the canal, the Abbey Estate and Park Royal employment hub.
The bridge features a gently curving structure with slender steel columns that blend with surrounding tree trunks and vegetation. The 4m-wide deck is flanked by steel girders and topped with 1.5m-high repeating steel fins, creating a light and kinetic feel that appears to shift in the sunlight.
Fabricated from low-maintenance weathering steel, the bridge will have a distinctive rust-like, earthy appearance commemorating the site’s industrial past. A ‘half-through’ deck design enables efficient structural performance with minimum bridge depth, reducing ramp lengths to enhance accessibility for all users and minimise environmental impact.
The design embraces the canal’s unique location, offering a journey through natural habitat and wildlife areas. The bridge will afford canopylevel views and panoramic vistas across the Grand Union Canal as it opens over the water.
The bridge will provide safer off-road walking and cycling options, reduce journey times and promote healthier, more active lifestyles by encouraging recreational use of the canal space, connecting 3,350 homes.
The work is being delivered through Perfect Circle, a unique partnership between AECOM, Pick Everard, Gleeds and via the SCAPE consultancy framework.
BESPOKE TERRACOTTA CLADDING TAKES FLIGHT IN BRIGHTON
Architectural solutions specialist Aliva UK’s custom-designed facade for a new university campus building at Brighton University’s School of Business and Law has pushed the envelope for design customisation of a cladding product.
The bespoke terracotta facade on Elm House has changed the Brighton skyline and proved multi-award winning in the facade and built environment sectors as well as winning an international design award for building surface innovation.
Murmurations and mathematics
A first-of-its-kind in facade design, Aliva UK custom-designed the bespoke 3D white terracotta tiled ceramic veil cladding that takes its architectural inspiration from murmurations of starlings that take flight over the iconic Brighton Pier.
The cladding was also custom-designed to reference the architect Hassell’s design intention, to also visually relay the historic mathematical tiles of Brighton and the state of change that students experience whilst at university.
and supplied by Aliva UK. Aliva also undertook the bespoke development and testing of the support system and the full design package for this flagship project.
Six different types of white, handmade, geometric glazed tiles in matt, gloss and semi-gloss finishes were used to create the stunning aesthetic. The building features 50,000 tiles in total. Made out of 100% clay they provide both an organic and sustainable surface solution.
Product strength and flexibility
The selection of ceramic elements was led by the benefits offered by this material to satisfy several requirements: its natural texture, high durability and flexibility in design.
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A custom ceramic veil frame wraps around the building from the second level to support 3,120sqm of the bespoke terracotta tiles that were manufactured
The selection of ceramic elements was led by the benefits offered by this material to satisfy several requirements: its natural texture, high durability and flexibility in design. The latter was fundamental to respond to the complexity of the six different 3D shapes required for the tiles. No other material could provide the same strength and flexibility at the same time.
The design intention is that the ceramic cladding is not part of the main building envelope but is designed as a ‘doubleskin’ that wraps the upper floors. This works as a screen in front of the windows but which still allows them to be opened.
BRISTOL BYZANTINE DETAILING THROUGH BRICK SLIP SYSTEM
Aliva UK’s signature facade systems have created another flagship finish on a statement Purpose Built Student Accommodation development for client Unite Students. Avon Point in Bristol is a £75million 623-bed new-build in the heart of one of the UK’s largest regeneration areas.
Avon Point is a 5 storey, part 7, part 8 and part 14 storey development for which Aliva UK is proud to have provided a customised External Wall Insulation (EWI) clay brick slip facade system with several impressive accent details to create architectural flair with a brickwork aesthetic utilising Modern Methods of Construction (MMC).
It is a fully bespoke system that pays homage to the Bristol Byzantine architectural style and the city’s industrial heritage, stands equally as a beacon of contemporary residential design, while meeting all elements of Hadfield Cawkwell Davidson’s architectural brief without compromise.
Sweeping archways, shadows and laddering
This AlivaBrick system is A1 fire rated and Kiwa UK certified. The facade includes 15mm red multi slips and 9mm black slips for accent detailing/shadow effects, with two thicknesses of mineral wool insulation used.
The system has realised a series of grand sweeping brick slip archways crowned with soldier bonds, that take the eye from ground to sky.
They sit alongside a mix of intricate laddering details with shadow effect created from black slips, recesses, step outs and projecting banding serving as a subtle complement to the larger detailing. These all blend together to create architectural intrigue and flair alongside an aesthetic that evokes the city’s urban heritage.
External Wall Insulation systems as fabric-first solutions are at the forefront of MMC. Given 45% of the heat in a building is lost through its walls, EWI is a must for any energy-conscious project, improving thermal values, reducing energy consumption for the betterment of the planet and residents’ energy bills. MMC also brings greater agility to a project, including faster construction times, improved quality control, cost savings and sustainability.
The AlivaBrick system achieved thermal efficiency U-Values ranging between 0.12-0.19W/m2k for Avon Point.
Aliva UK’s facades designed with Italian flair
Aliva UK is a multi award-winning architectural solutions specialist. It prides itself on its facades designed with Italian
flair, a full suite of materials and systems as well as a customisation service to create the truly bespoke in the built environment.
Aliva has been operating in the UK for 25 years this year and its Italian parent company Gruppo Ivas has celebrated its 70th anniversary, demonstrating market strength and longevity of a global business.
Aliva UK is a market-leading External Wall Insulation and rainscreen cladding specialist with a suite of A-rated bespoke facade systems suitable for all sectors to realise architectural design intent and creative vision.
Aliva UK provides consultancy, including Gateway 2 compliance, design, structural calculation, manufacturing and supply, on site project training and installation assessment.
This AlivaBrick system is A1 fire rated and Kiwa UK certified.
RECURRING REVENUE: THE FUTURE OF ALARM INSTALLATION
The security industry is moving away from a purely transactional model as cloud-connected alarm systems transform how installers operate. Traditionally, systems were fitted and handed over, with income tied to one-off jobs. Now, connectivity and customer expectations are driving a shift toward subscription-based services that generate recurring revenue.
Platforms such as HKC Security’s SecureComm link the installer, system,
PRESENTING A NEW SYSTEM OF SMOKE EVACUATION
WindowMaster International A/S has launched an EN 121012 certified smoke ventilation solution in collaboration with UPVC systems supplier VEKA.
The partnership certifies VEKA’s Halo System 10 and M70 window systems for smoke control when fitted with WindowMaster
and end user, enabling remote diagnostics, event logs, firmware updates, and proactive maintenance. This not only improves reliability but allows installers to offer continuous support without site visits, turning a one-off sale into an ongoing service.
Recurring revenue provides predictable income and stronger client relationships, while customers benefit from app access, system health checks, updates, and peace of mind. Familiarity with subscriptions in other sectors has made this model easier to adopt.
For installers, success depends on mindset and simplicity—clear, wellpriced service packages are more effective than complex tiers. By embedding ongoing support into their offering, installers can stabilise cash flow, reduce call-backs, and deliver lasting value, reshaping the profession into a service-led model for the future.
actuators, working with VEKA partners Teal Products and L J Pratley & Partners. This allows specifiers to choose UKCA-marked PVCu systems that meet UK legal requirements for natural smoke and heat exhaust ventilation (NSHEVs).
The certification covers rigorous performance testing, including:
By enabling smoke to be extracted quickly from corridors and stairwells during fire incidents, the systems support safe evacuation and reduce risk to occupants.
The project underlines both WindowMaster and VEKA’s commitment to advancing façade safety, giving fabricators and specifiers a proven, compliant PVCu option for modern building projects.
DON’T
BE FOOLED: SPOTTING NONCOMPLIANT FLAME RETARDANT MATERIALS
Fire safety is central to building design, yet not all “flame retardant” materials used for temporary protection deliver the performance their labels suggest. For architects and specifiers, this can have serious implications.
Under the Joint Code of Practice (JCoP) for Fire Prevention on Construction Sites, compliance is required for insured projects above £2.5m. Section 10 highlights the role of temporary protection, emphasising coverings with low fire load and minimal flame spread.
Genuine FR certification involves rigorous testing across ignition resistance, flame spread, smoke development, and heat release, followed by annual audits and manufacturing inspections. Recognised marks such as LPS 1207, LPS 1215 or Certifire provide assurance that products meet these standards.
Non-compliant coverings can accelerate fire spread, threaten insurance validity, and undermine professional accountability. Architects and designers specifying materials should always look for LPCB/Certifire marks and request original certificates. Doing so safeguards projects, protects occupants, and ensures fire safety is embedded in the design process from the outset.
ORTAL UNVEILS NEW OVAL FIREPLACE
– WHERE FIRE PROTECTION MEETS SCULPTURAL DESIGN
Ortal’s latest innovation delivers high-performance heating and ventilation with a bold architectural aesthetic.
As modern architecture increasingly calls for seamless integration between aesthetics and performance, fire safety is no longer confined to behind-thescenes systems. Ortal’s latest release— the Oval fireplace—demonstrates how advanced fire protection technologies can be delivered in a form that also enhances spatial design. Combining its sealed Direct Vent and Power Vent systems with a distinctive sculptural structure, Oval offers a fire feature that is both safe and striking, ensuring compliance, comfort, and creative freedom for specifiers.
Ortal – a global leader in luxury fireplaces and exclusive flame technologies – brings more than 30 years of expertise to this latest innovation. With over 300 standard frameless fireplace models, the brand is known for pushing the boundaries of what fire features can achieve, blending contemporary aesthetics with state-ofthe-art safety and ventilation systems. Oval continues this legacy, expanding Ortal’s collection with a steel-crafted, curved fireplace that acts as a functional centrepiece in both residential and commercial settings.
Designed for optimal safety, the Oval is built around Ortal’s industry-leading Direct Vent system—a sealed combustion technology that maintains excellent indoor air quality by drawing air from the outside and safely expelling combustion
Oval represents the next step in combining safety, innovation and beauty.
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gases. This design eliminates the risk of harmful indoor pollutants and allows for consistent, clean-burning operation.
In addition, Ortal’s Power Vent system increases installation flexibility, enabling exhaust to be redirected over greater distances or through tight spaces—ideal for high-rise buildings, complex layouts, or retrofit projects where traditional flue systems are impractical. These innovations empower architects and developers to include fireplaces in areas previously considered unviable, without compromising on safety standards or compliance.
Oval also incorporates Ortal’s smart Heat Control system, which allows heat to be transferred to different rooms or ducted out, preventing overheating in glazed or well-insulated spaces while improving energy efficiency. This makes it a practical solution for modern lowenergy buildings and enhances occupant comfort.
Measuring 47 inches wide—with additional sizes in development—the Oval model can be wall-mounted or fully suspended, offering remarkable versatility. Its curved, sculptural form aligns with contemporary trends favouring organic shapes and softer spatial elements. Yet beneath its design appeal is a robust, performance-driven heating system built to rigorous fire safety standards.
“Oval represents the next step in combining safety, innovation and beauty,” says Elizabeth Margles, CEO of Ortal North America. “It’s designed to meet the needs of today’s architects and designers, providing a stunning focal point that doesn’t compromise on air quality, heat efficiency, or fire protection. With Oval, we’re redefining how fire can be safely experienced in modern environments.”
Whether used in homes, hospitality, or commercial applications, the Oval fireplace demonstrates that fire safety and innovation can go hand in hand—without sacrificing architectural ambition.
WE PROTECT WHAT MATTERS
We’re huge stockists of fire and safety glass, offering fast delivery from local branches. Our team provides technical help and specification support, with options for supply-only or supply-and-fit to suit your project and budget needs.
UPGRADE YOUR ROOF WINDOWS FOR A
WARMER, BRIGHTER, ENERGY-SAVING HOME
If your old roof windows are past their prime, a VELUX roof window replacement could just be the solution you’ve been looking for.
Many units installed more than 20 years ago now fall short of today’s standards. Ageing glazing can let heat escape, create draughts, and reduce natural daylight. In fact, only 27% of homeowners have installed energy-efficient windows, highlighting the opportunity for a simple retrofit that improves warmth, energy efficiency, and overall enjoyment of the home.
Improving the building fabric
Modern roof windows do much more than let in light. Advanced glazing and insulation help keep warmth inside, reduce draughts, and make homes less reliant on heating. Energy efficiency motivates 34% of homeowners to renovate, and replacing older windows
is a straightforward, high-impact way to boost comfort and efficiency without major work.
Why autumn is the ideal window
The colder months highlight the limitations of older glazing. Condensation, draughts, and fluctuating temperatures can make homes uncomfortable and increase heating costs. Upgrading in autumn ensures your home is ready for winter, delivering stable temperatures and a healthier indoor environment, benefits homeowners can feel immediately.
Enhancing
daylight and wellbeing
Replacement roof windows improve natural light, making interiors brighter, more attractive, and easier to enjoy, particularly during the darker months. Better sound insulation and less condensation create a quieter, more comfortable home, supporting wellbeing throughout the year.
Adding long-term value
Replacing roof windows is a smart way to futureproof your home, especially when done alongside projects like re-roofing, loft conversions, or insulation upgrades. Modern glazing improves performance, enhances the look of your home, and
creates brighter, more comfortable spaces that stand the test of time.
Reliable installation and specification
VELUX Certified Installers offer a straightforward replacement process with minimal disruption, ensuring specification is carried out to a high standard. Product warranties provide further assurance of performance longevity, giving homeowners confidence in the investment.
Win a Roof Window Upgrade
If your roof windows are over 20 years old, now’s the perfect time to replace them. You could win up to £6,000 towards new roof windows, plus £2,000 towards installation (T&Cs apply), giving your home a warmer, brighter, and more energy-efficient refresh just in time for winter. Don’t miss this chance to improve comfort, boost performance, and transform your living space. Enter the VELUX Prize Draw, open until 24th September 2025.
T H E E F F E C T I V E W A Y
T O P R O V E F I R E D O O R
C O M P E T E N C Y
S A V E
Online and practical based courses for fire door installation, maintenance and inspection.
Nationally recognised qualifications to suit all of your training needs.
01902 931 101
HEATING WITH DESIGN: RADIATORS FOR SMARTER REFURBISHMENTS
Refurbishment projects often present architects with a delicate balancing act. Existing structures, outdated heating systems, and spatial constraints can make technical upgrades difficult, while clients increasingly expect both improved comfort and refined aesthetics. Heating solutions, in particular, play a pivotal role in this equation: they need to perform efficiently, integrate into diverse layouts, and contribute to the overall design language of a space.
Radiators as Architectural Elements
Traditionally treated as purely functional, radiators are now being reimagined as integral design components. This is especially relevant in refurbishment, where replacing heating bodies can have both a technical and a visual impact. Modern systems are expected to combine high thermal performance, adaptability to existing layouts, and strong visual presence — a set of demands that manufacturers are tackling with new materials and patented technologies.
Italian brand Tubes has approached this challenge through its Elements collection, which brings together performance-driven engineering and architectural styling. Two radiators from this line — Soho and Agorà — demonstrate how heating bodies can contribute to sustainable refurbishment while also enhancing the look and feel of interiors.
Efficiency Meets Adaptability
Both Soho and Agorà are designed with refurbishment scenarios in mind, where integration with existing pipework is often essential. Hydraulic connections can be customised, allowing installation without major structural work — a clear advantage in projects where minimising disruption is key.
Performance is equally critical. A patented internal system maximises heating surface area while reducing water content, enabling the radiators to deliver high heat output with lower energy demand. This efficiency translates into reduced system usage times, faster responsiveness to temperature shifts, and, ultimately, energy savings.
The choice of aluminium as a primary material reinforces this efficiency. Lightweight, durable, and 100% recyclable, aluminium ensures rapid heat transmission while aligning with broader goals for sustainable material use in construction.
Soho: Contemporary Precision
The Soho radiator exemplifies a minimalist yet architectural aesthetic, with clean lines available in vertical, horizontal, freestanding, and bathroom configurations. Ranging from compact dimensions suitable for narrow bathrooms to tall versions over two metres, Soho offers flexibility without compromising presence.
Available in hydraulic and electric models, Soho can be paired with digital thermostats for programmable, Wi-Fi enabled control — an increasingly valuable feature in energy-conscious design. Its anodised finishes in aluminium, titanium, bronze, and black
extend the design vocabulary, while practical accessories like towel rails make it suitable for both domestic and commercial refurbishment projects.
Agorà: Tradition Reinterpreted
By contrast, Agorà takes inspiration from the form of classic cast-iron radiators, updated with contemporary technology and material efficiency. Its modular aluminium elements allow over 190 size variations, from low-height models that sit neatly beneath period windows to tall options suited to modern interiors. A choice of smooth or decorative finishes enhances its versatility.
Agorà’s patented structure reduces water consumption while maintaining high outputs, aligning with both comfort goals and sustainability targets. Durable internal coatings and a palette of more than 140 colours ensure longevity — both functionally and stylistically.
Towards Smarter Refurbishment
For architects, the appeal of radiators like Soho and Agorà lies in their ability to combine technical adaptability, energy efficiency, and design flexibility. They illustrate a broader trend in heating design: treating radiators not as afterthoughts, but as architectural elements that enhance comfort, aesthetics, and sustainability in refurbishment projects.
CPD: The Performance Gap
Ensure your buildings achieve specified thermal performance by sharpening your knowledge on regulations, standards and closing the performance gap.
Learning outcomes:
• Understand the journey to today’s thermal regulations
• Understand common installation issues that can impact thermal performance
• Reflect on Passivhaus principles and their importance
• Discover the benefits and application of stone wool insulation
MARCUS STEFFEN, FOUNDER AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF AKARUI STUDIO
DESIGNING
In this interview, we sit down with Marcus Steffen, Founder and Creative Director of Akarui Studio, to explore his nuanced approach to lighting design across a range of high-profile hospitality projects—including the Falcon Restaurant and No1 Lounge. With a background that blends design expertise with education, Marcus shares how his studio crafts lighting schemes that are both technically sophisticated and deeply atmospheric. From navigating heritage constraints to enhancing guest experience through subtle illumination and robust controls, Marcus offers valuable insight into the philosophy, challenges, and future of lighting design in luxury environments.
ATMOSPHERE: AN INTERVIEW WITH MARCUS STEFFEN OF AKARUI STUDIO ON LIGHTING IN HOSPITALITY
Marcus, you've had the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects, including the Falcon Restaurant and No1 Lounge. Could you walk us through your approach to lighting design in these hospitality spaces?
As we approach each project, our first goal is to understand the environment our client wants to create, the atmosphere they aim to build, and the branding behind the space. We then align the
client’s goals with a lighting design that enhances these elements, seamlessly integrating the lighting with the architecture and interior design of the space. It’s a holistic approach, where we consider every aspect and interconnect it with the lighting.
Akarui Studio is known for creating lighting designs that marry heritage with contemporary needs, such as in the Falcon Restaurant project. Can you speak to your philosophy
on the role of lighting in creating atmosphere, particularly in hospitality settings, and how that informs your work with heritage spaces?
We design lighting to complement the architectural and heritage features within a space, ensuring it is sympathetic to the building while highlighting key areas without interfering the structure. Our primary focus is on the light itself, with an emphasis on concealing the light fittings. The fittings should not draw attention; instead, it’s the architecture and heritage features that we aim to highlight through the lighting.
For example, at our Falcon Restaurant project, we wanted to spotlight the texture of the building’s beautiful exposed old wooden pillars as they are an important part of the history and structure of the restaurant. We used miniature uplights to highlight the pillars, discreetly placed in a new floor to ensure they didn’t interfere with the existing structure. This approach also minimised glare, ensuring the comfort of the visitors.
I believe that light, more than almost anything else, has the power to direct people’s attention. By playing with
contrast and making key elements brighter, you can draw clients’ focus to specific features. The challenge, however, is balancing that contrast with ambient lighting. We aim to make ambient lighting as subtle as possible, ensuring that it enhances the contrast and creates visual interest without making the space feel too stark or uncomfortable.
In the Falcon Restaurant, the challenge of low ceilings and the presence of original architectural features required unique lighting solutions. Can you explain how you overcame those design constraints and still achieved the desired aesthetic?
The Falcon Restaurant features a main dining room and two private dining rooms, each with distinct structures that required unique approaches. The common challenge across almost all
We design lighting to complement the architectural and heritage features within a space... “ “
areas was the low ceiling and we couldn’t recess into the ceiling, due to certain listed building constraints.
Our solution involved using small, micro surface-mounted lights finished in the same colour as the ceilings, fitted with anti-glare accessories to ensure they blended seamlessly. Around these, we integrated surface-mounted ambient lighting, incorporating wall lights into the banquette seating. The exception was the larger private dining room, which had a high vaulted ceiling with exposed rafters. Here we used suspended pendant light with two light sources: a linear downlight to illuminate the table and ambient candle lighting to highlight the various structural elements.
An important consideration in the design was the amount of light needed in these spaces. We’re mindful not to over-light, as that would require additional fittings and potentially put unnecessary stress on the architecture.
The lighting in No1 Lounge was carefully designed to create a sophisticated, moody ambience, while also needing to adapt to changing times of day and operational requirements. How do you balance technical constraints like ceiling height and regulations with atmosphere and automation in these spaces?
Airport lounges should be an escape, especially considering that traveling through an airport is often an unpleasant experience. The purpose of these lounges is to offer a space for people to relax. But how do we create an environment that fosters relaxation? The answer lies in connecting it to the feeling of home and the spaces where people unwind.
The interior design incorporated elements inspired by traditional Victorian and Georgian homes, with panelling and muted colour schemes to encourage a sense of calm. Drawing on our experience in residential design, we aimed to create an ambient atmosphere reminiscent of a home environment.
We focused on key areas where task lighting was needed, such as the bar and servery, to ensure proper working light. The rest of the lounge, however, wasn’t brightly lit. One significant challenge was the low ceiling, about 2.6 meters high. We broke the space into sections using light to define each area and create transitions. This design strategy helped avoid the overwhelming feeling of a large, open space, making each section feel more like a distinct room, similar to the layout of a home.
In any hospitality scheme, we use astronomical time clocks to control the lighting based on the sun’s setting time. For example, an airport lounge needs to function from 4:00 AM until 10:00 PM, so the lighting must adjust throughout the day. Where possible, we maximise natural daylight entering the space, and we're increasingly integrating artificial daylight sources to support well-being by balancing the circadian rhythm, ultimately enhancing the travel experience.
A key consideration in any airport project is ensuring the lighting controls are resilient and robust. To keep things simple, we typically design three or four tailored lighting scenes that are automated, so they’re not dependent on staff to activate them.
Another element we consider when it comes to control and operation is easy maintenance. Creating a beautiful lighting scheme is just the beginning - it
needs to remain beautiful for years to come. Given the constraints of working within airports, including security measures and the challenges of bringing equipment on-site, the lighting design must be straightforward to maintain.
You’re both a designer and an educator. How do you translate your real-world lighting design experience into your teaching at the Inchbald School of Design? Are there particular lessons or insights that you emphasise with your students?
I think a lot of lighting is misunderstood. Anyone who doesn't work as a lighting designer might not consider how much light can affect an area. My role is to explain some of the basic tools and principles behind lighting and give people a toolbox to go out and use on their projects.
One of the key elements is talking about how you use light rather than light fittings. Many people get caught up in placing light fittings in a space without considering how the light will be emitted from those fittings and where it will fall. We always prioritise understanding the light first, how it will interact with surfaces, and then work backward to select the right fittings to achieve that desired effect.
Another important factor is analysing how people will inhabit the space. As designers, much of what we do is create a space that will be enjoyable for the client long after everyone has left. By considering how light will be used within
the space and how it will be experienced, we’re able to tailor the design much more effectively.
Your book Residential Lighting Design focuses on creating beautiful and functional lighting for the home. How do the principles you outline in residential lighting differ when applied to the dynamic nature of hospitality projects?
When creating lighting designs for residential or hospitality projects, the core goal is often the same: to create atmospheres where people feel comfortable and happy to inhabit. The key difference lies in the flexibility of the space. In residential design, spaces need to be much more adaptable, capable of serving multiple functions throughout the day. Someone might spend 18 hours at home, using a space for a variety of activities. In contrast, people typically spend only a few hours at a time in a hospitality space, which allows for more playful and dramatic lighting designs. This flexibility enables us to create lighting that delivers a memorable experience, even for a short duration.
Akarui has worked on both intimate spaces, like the private dining rooms in the Falcon Restaurant, and larger, public areas like No1 Lounge. How does your
approach to lighting differ between these two types of spaces, and what challenges do they present?
When dealing with larger spaces that will be used in various ways, flexibility is key. We work closely with interior designers and architects to fully understand how the space will be used and design the lighting accordingly.
In contrast, when working with smaller, more intimate spaces, we have the opportunity to create something truly bespoke and unique. It is almost like creating a small, artistic vignette for the visitor to experience.
Looking to the future, what trends or innovations in lighting design do you find most exciting, especially in the context of luxury hospitality? Are there any emerging technologies or design philosophies that you’re particularly keen to explore?
When we design lighting schemes, the expectation is that they will last for 10, 20 years. The lighting has to be timeless and flexible enough to adapt to changing styles, which is why we avoid following trends.
Over time, I’ve noticed the simplification of lighting controls, making it easier to create spaces that deliver an incredible experience for everyone. In the past, restaurants often relied on staff to manually adjust dimmers to set the right atmosphere. Now, with simplified controls, it’s much easier to ensure that
When dealing with larger spaces that will be used in various ways, flexibility is key. We work closely with interior designers and architects to fully understand how the space will be used and design the lighting accordingly.
every time a client enters the space, they’ll have an amazing experience.
I have also observed that the materials in use for lighting products is diversifying. The move away from high heat light sources, like halogen, has opened up vast possibilities to create from previously unused materials such as fabric and paper, and this is then leading to new exciting products entering use.
I think the movement within hospitality, and just the world in general, is moving away from products to experiences. Lighting plays an intrinsic role in this shift, and creating well-designed lighting schemes is becoming increasingly important.
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CROWN PAINTS CHAMPIONS INCLUSIVE DESIGN IN NEW ‘DESIGNING FOR NEURODIVERSITY’ REPORT
Crown Paints has launched its Designing for Neurodiversity report, bringing much-needed focus to the critical role architecture and design can play in shaping inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals, exploring how the built environment can support the wellbeing of those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia and other cognitive differences.
“The report is underpinned with new data from a survey of 250 UK-based architects and specifiers, revealing both enthusiasm and gaps in understanding.”
At a time when an estimated one in seven people in the UK are neurodivergent, the report represents an urgent call to action for architects and specifiers to reflect, collaborate and innovate.
Three in five respondents to the survey said that neurodiversity is being cited more prominently in projects that they bid for. However, despite clients seeking out a built environment that is more inclusive, 79% of architects and specifiers admit their practice has a knowledge gap when it comes to designing for people with neurodivergent needs.
The report reinforces the principle that designing for neurodiversity is not a one-size-fits-all endeavour. Instead, it highlights the importance of tailoring environments to the specific needs of
end users by involving them directly in the design process. By listening to and collaborating with neurodivergent individuals, architects and designers can create spaces that are more responsive, flexible, and supportive.
Crucially, many of the features that benefit neurodiverse users – such as soft lighting, natural materials, adjustable environments, and intuitive colour zoning – also promote mental wellbeing and comfort for the wider population. In this way, inclusive design can create better environments for everyone –not only promoting social equity, but driving innovation, productivity and collaboration.
To download the report, visit: https://www.crownpaintsprofessional. com/designing-for-neurodiversity/
INTERTRONICS SUPPORTS POWDERTECH’S
QC PROCESS
Powdertech Surface Science has adopted Dyne Testing technology from Intertronics to strengthen quality control in aluminium finishing.
The Oxfordshire-based company specialises in powder coating and surface treatments where adhesion is critical. Surface energy testing with Dyne inks provides a quick indication of whether aluminium parts are sufficiently prepared: uniform wetting suggests high surface energy and good adhesion potential, while beading indicates inadequate preparation.
Powdertech has also introduced the CleanoSpector to monitor surface cleanliness. Residues from casting or machining can compromise coating performance, and the device allows incoming parts to be screened for contamination levels. Where required, additional or specialist cleaning can be applied before parts enter production.
“The system’s Relative Fluorescence Unit (RFU) measurements are referenced by a major OEM on technical drawings, highlighting the tool’s acceptance as a reliable cleanliness standard within the industry.”
The Only C5 Wa ter-Based Coa ting: RD Monoguard
Idea l Applica tions
Industria l Facilities & Production Plants
Bridges, Steelwork & Pla tfor ms
Refineries, Coasta l & Marine Environments
C5 Ver y High Protection
RD-Monoguard has achieved C5 Ver y High (VH) cer tifica tion, meaning it can provide more than 25 years of protection in harsh coastal and industrial environments
Environmenta l Friendliness
The wa ter-based for mula and low VOC levels make RDMonoguard a more environmentally responsible choice than traditional solventbased coa tings
Cost-Ef fective
By combining primer, inter media te, and topcoa t in one, RD-Monoguard streamlines applica tion and may lower costs, making it more ef ficient
RIBA LONDON AWARD WINNER INCORPORATES SCHÖCK THERMAL BREAKS
Buildings C1 and D1 of the new Greenwich Design District have been announced as winners of the RIBA London Awards 2025 – and Schöck, the leading international supplier of structural thermal breaks, has been instrumental in minimising any risk of themal bridging.
Greenwich Design District, at the heart of the Greenwich Peninsula, is made up of sixteen buildings and Schöck has provided a variety of product solutions that minimise any risk of themal bridging on five of the sixteen buildings throughout the development. Specifically though, the award winning buildings C1 and D1, had their own particular detailing demands.
Standard and bespoke Isokorb requirements
Set on the east side of the main entrance to the Design District, C1 is a three-level workshop and studio building with the unlikely addition of a basketball court on the roof. The Schöck Isokorb T type K, a load bearing thermal break element for free cantilevered reinforced concrete balcony construction, is widely used throughout C1. It has a highly thermally efficient compression module and is a load-bearing thermal break which transfers negative moments and positive shear forces. In addition though, there are unusually deep floor zones, several large cantilevers and a steel mesh
enclosure supported on a braced-steel frame around the basketball court. These utilise Isokorb T type SK units, loadbearing thermal insulation solutions for connecting cantilevered steel elements to a reinforced concrete slab and which transfer negative moments and positive shear forces.
External staircase and walkway Building C1 also has an external steel staircase, which is supported by Isokorb
T type S units – load-bearing thermal insulation elements for connecting cantilevered steel girders to steel structures. The modular design of the T type S ensures that it can be adapted to all profile sizes and load bearing capacity requirements. Where the walkway encloses the staircase, there are particularly large cantilevers. Here the walkway slabs, supported by a main beam, enclose cast-in steel beams and three cross-beams, which are bolted back to the structural slabs, once again using Isokorb T type SK units.
Large capacity thermal breaks required for D1
Building D1 is a community of studios, workshops and office spaces.
Structurally it consists of concrete slabs, robust enough to support trees located on the external decks. The load demands were such that it was necessary to develop some extremely large capacity structural thermal break elements, which are based on the design of the Isokorb T type K.
Schöck thermal breaks exceed the demands of Part L
The quality of the components used in the construction of the Isokorb result in superior thermal performance. Stainless steel (in the thermal zone) is used for its greatly reduced thermal conductivity when compared with carbon steel. The HTE (High-performance Thermal Element) module used in the Isokorb system, is a concrete thrust bearing designed to transmit compressive forces and also optimise thermal conductivity. When Neopor®, an expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation known for its superior thermal performance, is used together with the HTE module, thermal bridging is almost entirely eradicated.
Contact Schöck on 01865 290 890; or for full details of the Isokorb range of solu-tions visit: www.schoeck.com/en-gb/isokorb
Overview of C1 Courtesy of Whitby Wood
Overview of D1 Courtesy of Whitby Wood
Building a Greener Future: THE IMPORTANCE OF BIOCLIMATIC ARCHITECTURE
Ombria Algarve, a premium sustainable lifestyle resort in Portugal, exemplifies bioclimatic architecture at scale. Situated in tranquil countryside just two kilometres from one of the Algarve’s largest nature reserves, the low-density development spans 153 hectares and will feature 380 properties designed with sustainability at their heart.
Every aspect of Ombria Algarve’s design reflects the principles of bioclimatic architecture. Buildings are oriented to maximise sunlight in winter and provide natural shading in summer, while cross-ventilation ensures comfort without excessive energy use. The design incorporates local Algarvian building methods, combining stone, timber, and clay to achieve a natural thermal balance. Deep overhangs, terraces, and shaded courtyards create seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces, enhancing residents’ connection to the surrounding landscape.
“Bioclimatic architecture is an approach that harmonises buildings with their environment by optimising the use of natural resources for energy efficiency and comfort. The concept also reduces the environmental impact of the construction as the use of sustainable materials and energy sources are prioritised. We have also found bioclimatic buildings to be more resilient as they have been designed with local conditions in mind that can withstand environmental changes and extreme weather,” says João Perloiro, Founding Partner of Promontorio.
Every aspect of Ombria Algarve’s design reflects the principles of bioclimatic architecture.
“In Portugal, our relationship with eco-friendly construction methods goes back centuries as traditional homes, made from local materials, already displayed an understanding and respect for the environment. Whilst the use of local materials remains a focus, modern technology and innovation have allowed architects to create a new generation of sustainable homes,” says João Richard Costa, CCO at Ombria Algarve.
Water, Energy, and Ecological Stewardship
Ombria Algarve goes beyond building design to adopt a holistic approach to sustainability. Water management is central: rainwater collected along roads and parking areas is channelled to a storage lake on the resort’s 18th golf hole, from where energy-efficient pumps redistribute it for irrigation and landscaping.
Energy conservation is equally integrated. The resort features solar power generation, energy-efficient lighting, and charging stations for electric vehicles, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Landscape restoration has been a priority: over 700 oak trees have been planted, and 1,800 linear metres of river habitat have been rehabilitated, fostering biodiversity while preserving existing flora and fauna.
Even the micro-scale amenities reflect sustainable thinking. Ombria Algarve has its own plant nursery, ensuring that landscaping supports local species and long-term ecological growth. Passive and active energy strategies combine to reduce the resort’s environmental footprint without compromising comfort or lifestyle.
A Blueprint for the Future
The Impact of Bioclimatic Design on Lifestyle and Community
Beyond environmental performance, bioclimatic design enhances quality of life. Residents benefit from natural light, cooler indoor temperatures in summer, and warmer spaces in winter. Outdoor living areas, shaded walkways, and communal gardens encourage interaction with nature while promoting healthy lifestyles. The resort’s holistic approach demonstrates that sustainable architecture can create not only environmentally responsible buildings but also thriving, resilient communities.
“Ombria’s holistic approach and adherence to high sustainability standards make it a notable example of bioclimatic architecture at a larger scale. It encourages further development in the region and contributes to a shift towards sustainable building practices,” adds João Perloiro.
Ombria Algarve illustrates the potential of bioclimatic architecture to shape a greener, more resilient future. By integrating traditional knowledge, modern innovation, and ecological stewardship, the project offers a blueprint for sustainable development in both residential and resort contexts. As architects and developers worldwide strive to reduce environmental impact, projects like Ombria Algarve highlight the vital role of design philosophy in building a truly sustainable future.
SUSTAINABILITY WITH IMPACT
As sustainability moves from a design preference to an essential requirement in contemporary architecture, material choices are under increasing scrutiny. Architects today are expected not only to create buildings that inspire but also to ensure that those structures stand the test of time with minimal environmental impact. That means durability, resource efficiency, and transparent environmental performance are no longer optional extras — they are the foundations of responsible design.
Transparency in Practice
One of the most significant tools available to architects is the Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), which measures and documents a product’s impact across its entire lifecycle, from raw material sourcing to disposal. EPDs bring clarity to the oftencomplex world of material sustainability, enabling more accurate comparisons and informed planning decisions. They are also integral to major certification systems such as LEED and BREEAM, helping projects align with international sustainability benchmarks.
Bathroom manufacturer Duravit has adopted EPDs across its product portfolio, providing specifiers with independently verified data to support transparent planning. This approach not only supports compliance but
also reinforces the growing industry shift toward measurable, accountable sustainability.
Material Matters
The longevity of any building element begins with the materials chosen. In high-traffic spaces such as bathrooms, durability is vital — both for performance and to reduce the environmental cost of frequent replacement. Duravit’s sanitary ceramics, for instance, are made from natural raw materials including kaolin, clay, quartz, and feldspar. Fired at over 1,200°C, they achieve a robust finish that is easy to maintain and designed for decades of use.
Long-term availability of spare parts and extended guarantees are also important to architects aiming to maximise lifecycle value. Alongside ceramic, recyclable materials such as sanitary acrylic and Duravit’s DuroCast® mineral composite expand the range of sustainable options available to designers.
Efficiency in Production
The sustainability of a building material extends beyond its use phase. Increasingly, architects are evaluating how products are manufactured — from energy consumption to waste management. Duravit has placed a strong emphasis on resource-efficient production, recycling material wherever possible and continually optimising energy use at its sites.
At its Hornberg facility in Germany, for example, the company produces thousands of ceramic units daily while
keeping reject rates low through strict quality controls. In Canada, a new plant scheduled to open in 2025 is being developed with the goal of almost climate-neutral production. Meanwhile, furniture production at Duravit’s Schenkenzell site is PEFC-certified, ensuring that wood is sourced from sustainably managed forests, with wood waste repurposed for heat generation.
A Collaborative Future
For architects, the value of such measures lies in how they contribute to the bigger picture: creating buildings that combine functionality, longevity, and reduced environmental impact. Manufacturers that provide transparent data, durable materials, and demonstrably sustainable production processes play a vital role in supporting the profession’s transition to more responsible design.
As eco-architecture continues to evolve, the emphasis is shifting from marketing claims to measurable outcomes. By embedding sustainability into its materials and processes, Duravit offers one example of how product innovation can support architects in meeting both design ambitions and ecological responsibilities.
Images from Duravit AG
The sustainable board. Designed for now. Preserving the future.
A LIGHTING SCHEME TO CELEBRATE COMMUNITY AND CULTURE
Zumtobel and Thorn, lighting brands of the Zumtobel Group, have revitalised Templemore Town Hall with a tailored scheme for the newly opened Templemore Library and Enterprise Centre. The result is a vibrant, multifunctional facility reflecting both the town’s heritage and the ambition of a forward-looking community.
Located in Templemore, County Tipperary, the Library and Enterprise Centre is a symbol of civic pride. Led by EML Architects and specified by MWP M&E Consultants, the project has transformed the historic hall into a modern library and enterprise hub. LeeTherm served as main contractor, with Tom Kennedy Electrical delivering the fit-out. The centre features a Makerspace, quiet reading zones, extensive book stock, and a glazed extension that floods the interior with
natural light. Officiated by the Minister for Rural and Community Development, it is the first in Tipperary to offer robotics and 3D printing technology alongside 15,000 new books.
The Lighting Challenge
John Sexton, Electrical Design Engineer at MWP, commented: “We needed a flexible solution that could adapt to the unique ceiling conditions of the building.” Ceiling constraints on the first floor and changing ceiling types in the reception area required bespoke lighting that delivered functionality, and efficiency,
but also an elevated architectural experience.
Lighting the Way Forward
Zumtobel and Thorn delivered a solution balancing technical performance, visual harmony, and architectural sensitivity. John Sexton continued: “The SLOTLIGHT range offered everything we needed in terms of performance and aesthetics, making a complex design challenge feel seamless.”
Central to the interior scheme was Zumtobel’s SLOTLIGHT infinity II, used in surface and pendant versions. Linear luminaires were deployed creatively, including a striking configuration around the void area to enhance visual depth. Their flexible modularity reduced glare, and the 10% indirect ceiling illumination created a calming, balanced atmosphere. Other Zumtobel luminaires, including SLOTLIGHT round and TECTON, supported offices and reading zones.
Thorn solutions, including Omega, Equaline Mini, Chalice, College, Katona, Graffiti, and Voyager, addressed emergency lighting needs, while exterior areas were illuminated with robust luminaires such as D-CO LED Bollards, Urba, Caelon, Eroa, and Eyekon, creating safe and welcoming surroundings after dark.
Philip Dewey, Key Account Manager at Zumtobel Group, said: “Templemore shows what’s possible when community investment meets thoughtful design. The lighting complements the architecture and purpose of the space.” Michael Heffernan, Project Manager at LeeTherm, added: “From day one, this project was about quality. Working with Zumtobel and Thorn ensured lighting that performs and looks exceptional, enhancing the finished environment.”
For more information visit: https://z.lighting/en/
FRAMING THE URBAN EDGE: Griffin Square, Montreal
With staggered balconies, rhythmic façades, and integrated amenities, ACDF Architecture creates a residential landmark that engages both street and skyline.
Located on the edge of downtown Montreal, Griffin Square occupies a prominent site in the rapidly evolving Griffintown district. Facing one of the few future green spaces in the area, the project is positioned at the strategic corner of Peel and Ottawa streets—where Ottawa embraces a cultural and commercial identity, and Peel functions as a major gateway into the city.
Articulated as two distinct towers, the project employs a fragmented volumetric strategy and massing hierarchy that asserts a strong urban presence while responding thoughtfully to the rapid
densification and formal heterogeneity of the surrounding context. Within this evolving urban fabric, Griffin Square privileges compositional clarity and measured restraint to establish a coherent architectural identity.
"In a rapidly evolving neighbourhood, our goal was to design an architecture that asserts its presence while maintaining a respectful dialogue with its surroundings," explains Maxime Frappier, the project’s lead designer.
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The architects conceived a façade with a pictorial quality, articulated through a rhythmic arrangement of staggered balconies.
Through these perspectival effects, the tower contributes meaningfully to the street’s vibrancy—a dimension often overlooked in high-rise design.
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Interior common areas include co-working spaces, a lounge, a communal kitchen, a gym, a yoga studio, and more. These open onto a landscaped two-level outdoor terrace, offering sunny and tranquil places to relax.
The dark-toned street-facing façades lend a grounded and composed presence, offering a subdued counterpoint within an already visually saturated streetscape. In contrast, the white façades facing the courtyard introduce a sense of lightness and permeability, enhancing visual comfort and optimising natural light throughout the inner spaces and along the narrower stretch of Young Street.
The façade facing the future park benefits from a generous setback, creating a deliberate podium-to-tower transition and modulating the building’s street-wall interface. This unique condition required an architectural gesture capable of acting as a visual beacon—almost like an urban billboard— while maintaining a human-scaled experience at the pedestrian level.
In response, the architects conceived a façade with a pictorial quality, articulated through a rhythmic arrangement of staggered balconies. Precisionengineered stainless steel bands frame their edges, capturing and reflecting subtle shifts in the sky—from fiery sunsets to soft, overcast tones. A bold, reflective frame surrounds the façade like a picture frame, amplifying its presence and allowing the volume to assert itself clearly within the surrounding cityscape.
The staggered balcony layout generates shifting perspectives from the sidewalk, creating a presence so expressive that it reads as a fifth elevation.
The two residential towers, standing 16 and 19 stories high, are connected by a glazed skybridge—an elevated circulation spine above a commercial plaza that activates Peel Street. This bridge mediates access to shared amenities, which, rather than being located on the rooftop—as is often the case with 'urban chalet' concepts—are placed on the second floor.
Positioned to face the park and visually connected to the surrounding pedestrian realm, these communal spaces extend the vibrancy of the street into the heart of the building, reinforcing residents’ sense of connection to their neighbourhood. Griffin Square is not a passive development—it actively contributes to urban life.
Interior common areas include coworking spaces, a lounge, a communal kitchen, a gym, a yoga studio, and more. These open onto a landscaped two-level outdoor terrace, offering sunny and tranquil places to relax. A long pool, bordered by generous lounging areas, completes this urban oasis.
In addition to these extensive amenities, a rooftop terrace crowns the building, providing residents with sweeping views of Montreal’s skyline—a rare urban privilege that enhances the overall residential experience.
Griffin Square comprises 409 rental units, ranging from studios to one- and two-bedroom apartments and penthouses. This diversity of typologies fosters spatial inclusivity, supporting multi-generational occupancy and varied domestic patterns, creating a rich and inclusive community where different lifestyles coexist harmoniously.
Griffin Square is conceived as a connective element...
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"We designed Griffin Square as everyday architecture: a place to live, to share, and to experience fully—not simply a collection of rental units," emphasises Maxime Frappier.
Griffin Square is conceived as a connective element—bridging the immediate scale of Griffintown’s evolving streetscape with the broader metropolitan context. This notion of connection also informs the way of living it fosters: one rooted in shared spaces, openness to the public realm, and a commitment to collective well-being— favouring the 'we' over the 'I,' and embracing the values of living together in the heart of the city.
The project was realised through a partnership between developers Mondev and Hillpark Capital—a collaboration that successfully aligned urban vision, architectural quality, and economic viability at the heart of a transforming neighbourhood.
Flipping Innovation Around with HES2 Concealed Hinges
True innovation happens when customers take a product beyond its intended purpose, unlocking new possibilities. Our HES2 concealed hinge was designed to simplify installation while maintaining the seamless, fully concealed look of the HES series. Originally intended for wooden doors, it requires mortising only on the door side, with a screw-mounted plate for the frame—making installation more accessible than ever.
However, some forward-thinking customers have discovered a new use for the HES2: mounting aluminum-framed glass doors. Since aluminum cannot be mortised, they ipped the hinge setup—mortising a wooden frame for the “door” side and screw-mounting the opposite plate into the aluminum frame of a glass door. This adaptation allows for a sleek, concealed hinge solution previously thought impossible for glass doors.
This kind of user-driven innovation is a testament to the exibility of great design. At Sugatsune, we are inspired by how our customers push the boundaries of possibility, and we remain committed to developing products that encourage creativity, adaptability, and excellence in design.
A MASTERCLASS IN BOLD DESIGN
Emma Jane Palin collaborates with VitrA to inject playful colour and personality into her bathroom and en suite.
Interior designer and stylist Emma Jane Palin has revealed the striking transformation of her retro-inspired main bathroom and en suite, showcasing a confident use of colour and form. Central to the design are eye-catching terracotta and blue tiles from VitrA’s Pro Colour range and the elegant freestanding Plural washbasin by Terri Pecora. Emma collaborated closely with the VitrA London design and specification team, who provided expert guidance on both functionality and aesthetics to help bring her bold vision to life.
Known for her affinity for clean lines, vibrant colours, and statement features, Emma has a distinct design DNA that shines through in these spaces. Since moving into her newly built home in May 2021, she had aspired to create a mid-century modern style bathroom that felt both playful and timeless. Her visit to the VitrA London Specification Hub in Clerkenwell proved pivotal, sparking the inspiration she needed to reimagine her compact 5m² main bathroom as a vibrant, confident space that embraces a mixand-match approach to tiles.
“I immediately fell in love with the VitrA Pro Colour range, which is ideal for those who appreciate clean, bold design,” explains Emma.
“We opted for a striking combination of Pool Blue, Tobacco, and Burgundy tiles, finished with Mapei grout in Terra Di Siena on the walls and Terracotta on the floor. The result is a rich, warm palette that creates depth and interest without overwhelming the space.”
To complement the vibrant tiles in the main bathroom, Emma selected the Plural Monobloc washbasin in Matt Terra Rossa, a freestanding design that serves as a showstopping focal point. Carefully positioned to be visible from the hallway, it creates a compelling introduction to the home’s interior. Beside the washbasin, the Plural Rim-ex wall-hung WC in Matt Taupe offers a softer tonal counterpoint, echoing the ceiling colour, which Emma chose as Cargo by COAT Paints—a muted, earthy shade that balances the bolder hues below.
The en suite bathroom follows a more subdued but equally considered colour palette. Here, a pared-back, earthy scheme transforms the compact space with timeless elegance. A pair of square Plural countertop basins in Matt Moss Green are paired with sleek black Origin built-in basin mixers, offering a sophisticated contrast. Above the basins, two Plural rotating mirrors complete the vanity area, adding both function and a touch of sculptural interest.
Throughout both bathrooms, Emma emphasises the importance of making the most of the available space. “These rooms may be small, but with thoughtful planning, colour, and statement furniture, they can feel open and inviting rather than cramped,” she says. Her approach demonstrates how bold design need not sacrifice practicality—indeed, it enhances it.
From initial moodboard to finished reality, these bathroom spaces reflect a confident embrace of personality and colour. Emma’s key advice to anyone tackling their own bathroom design is simple yet powerful: “Go bold. It can be daunting to commit to a design for the long term, but if you stay true to your style, you’ll create a space you truly adore.”
The Plural washbasin by Terri Pecora for VitrA (pictured left) is matched with VitrA Pro Colour range tiles in terracotta and blue and gold Origin fixtures and fittings for a striking look. Photographer: Sam Roberts
Pictured left to right: Emma Jane Palin; VitrA Gold tapware; Mode Mosaic Moss matt porcelain tiles match the Plural countertop basins sitting atop a repurposed wooden unit from Urban Outfitters. Photographer: Sam Roberts
CASE STUDY: NEOLITH SURFACES AT OSTERIA DEL MARE, COVENT GARDEN
Osteria del Mare, elegant new Bocconcino Restaurant in Covent Garden, pairs Mediterranean flavour with timeless design, brought to life by pioneering sintered stone from Neolith.
Designed to evoke the elegance and energy of the Mediterranean coast, the new restaurant features Neolith surfaces throughout, chosen for their exceptional aesthetic and technical performance. From sleek bar fronts and tabletops to robust countertops and wall cladding, Neolith plays a central role in creating an inviting, yet hard-wearing space suited to the demands of high-end hospitality.
Material Solution
A highlight of the design is the extensive use of Neolith Pulpis, a sintered stone surface inspired by classic brown marble, renowned for its warm veining and
“ “
From both a technical and creative perspective, the material was instrumental in meeting the design ambition of the space.
refined, earthy tones. Installed in a 6mm profile, Pulpis has been used across vertical surfaces, including stairwells and ground floor walls, delivering visual continuity and understated luxury.
Large-format pieces minimise joints and enhance the immersive experience, while the slim 6mm thickness allows cladding to integrate seamlessly without adding structural bulk – ideal for high-traffic hospitality environments.
Neolith’s surfaces are highly resistant to heat, scratches, stains, UV and moisture. The elegant soft sheen of Pulpis reflects ambient lighting beautifully, helping shape the restaurant’s warm, upscale ambience.
Implementation
From both a technical and creative perspective, the material was instrumental in meeting the design ambition of the space. The project team used a precision-cutting and
dry-lay process to align veining across slabs, allowing for a flawless finish that enhances the natural stone appearance.
In keeping with Osteria del Mare’s sustainable ethos, Neolith also offers exceptional environmental credentials. All surfaces are made from natural raw materials, with some models containing up to 98% recycled content. They are fully recyclable and manufactured without resins or plastics, making Neolith one of the most eco-conscious surface choices on the market.
Design Impact
Osteria del Mare invites diners on a culinary journey along the Mediterranean coast, with standout dishes including wild Scottish lobster linguine, spider crab in bisque, lemon sole Meunière, and pistachio tiramisu. The interiors echo this rich and evocative menu – where every detail, including the surfaces, contributes to a sense of escape and celebration that enhance guest experience.
“We chose Neolith 6mm Pulpis because it strikes a perfect balance between elegance and resilience. Its warm veining adds depth and sophistication, while the ultra-slim profile allowed a seamless finish. In a high-traffic venue, Neolith’s durability and ease of maintenance were essential for a luxurious aesthetic that endures daily use,” says Samanta Pancerevaite, Development Manager at Bocconcino Restaurant.
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WHY INVEST IN SHADING?
•Improved customer satisfaction
•Year round weather protection
•Free promotion with branding
•Better competitive advantage
•No need for costly extensions
•Ability to book private events
•Wider reach e.g. pet friendly
•Multiple dining experiences
•Enhanced atmosphere
•Improved curb appeal
•Increased capacity
•Increased revenue
Sauska Tokaj Winery BY BORD: A FLOATING LANDMARK IN HUNGARY
The goal is to create a seemingly implausible structure, one that is there, yet physically independent of its surrounding environment. “ “
Hovering lightly above the UNESCOprotected vineyards, the winery blends contemporary architecture with centuries of winemaking tradition.
Nestled in the UNESCO-protected TokajHegyalja region of northeastern Hungary, the Sauska Tokaj Winery is as much a cultural landmark as it is a production facility. Designed by BORD Architectural Studio, the project reimagines the traditional winery as an immersive architectural experience. Hovering above the vineyards in two intersecting lens-
shaped volumes, the building appears to levitate—its light, sculptural forms contrasting with the heavy earthbound rhythms of the vines.
Far from being a mere gesture, this “floating” quality embodies the winery’s mission: to present Tokaj wines on the world stage with energy, elegance, and innovation, while respecting the centuries-old heritage of the region.
Tokaj’s volcanic soils and continental climate have nurtured viticulture for over a millennium. Its famed aszú sweet wines brought global prestige, making “Tokaji” a byword for quality in royal courts and wine cellars alike. Yet the socialist era imposed industrialized mass production that undermined artisanal traditions.
Since Hungary’s political transition in the 1990s, Tokaj has undergone a renaissance. Boutique wineries, tourism infrastructure, and international investment have elevated its profile once more. The Sauska Tokaj winery is emblematic of this renewal: a contemporary facility rooted in tradition, yet unafraid to innovate.
Architect Péter Bordás describes his guiding principle: “What I create should not touch the untouchable – it should float or sit, like a sphere on an unidentifiably tiny surface. The goal is to create a seemingly implausible structure, one that is there, yet physically independent of its surrounding environment.”
This philosophy is literalized in the building’s form. The winery reads not as a heavy insertion into the landscape but as an elevated gesture—two overlapping discs balanced lightly above the vineyards. Early design models humorously portrayed the hill as having “eyes,” emphasizing the intent to animate rather than dominate the land. Perched on the southern slope of Padi Hill, the winery’s architectural identity is defined by its two 36-meter-wide, lensshaped volumes.
• Above ground: hospitality and gastronomy spaces, including restaurant, bar, and terraces.
• Below ground: production, fermentation, and storage, benefitting from the constant underground temperatures.
The structural system is refined and unobtrusive: slender steel columns support the elevated discs, heightening the illusion of levitation. Meanwhile, the underground fermentation halls adopt a circular geometry, where stainless
steel tanks encircle a central oak barrel aging room—symbolizing the dialogue between innovation and tradition.
Visitors approach via a gently curving path that ascends through the vineyards. The main entrance is subtly embedded in the slope, ensuring that the hovering structures remain visually dominant. Inside, circulation is choreographed as a journey. A skylit corridor acts as a transitional spine, guiding guests from the discreet entry point towards the panoramic terrace.
The hospitality areas embrace the landscape: high, curving ceilings taper towards expansive glazing, visually funneling attention outward. On the terrace, the Tokaj panorama unfolds in dramatic fashion—a composition of rolling vines, volcanic hills, and distant villages.
The visitor areas, designed in collaboration with Tihany Design, balance refinement with authenticity.
• Locally quarried limestone provides a tactile connection to the geology of Tokaj.
• Natural wood brings warmth and human scale.
• Steel accents reference the machinery of winemaking, underscoring the industrial-architectural dialogue.
Lighting and acoustics are carefully tuned, ensuring the spaces feel intimate despite their scale. The result is an interior that feels both timeless and unmistakably of its place.
Continued >>>
Visitors approach via a gently curving path that ascends through the vineyards. “ “
By fusing innovation with heritage, levity with gravity, precision with poetry, the building reflects the evolving spirit of a historic region.
The winery’s roof doubles as a living landscape, planted with native grasses and wildflowers. This green roof serves ecological and technical functions alike:
• Enhancing thermal insulation.
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• Supporting pollinators and biodiversity.
• Softening the building’s profile within the vineyards.
From above, the winery almost disappears—camouflaged against the patchwork of agricultural fields. The design achieves what few buildings manage: to be simultaneously a landmark and a discreet participant in its environment.
While the architectural form captivates visitors, the winery is also a model of technical precision.
• Grapes enter via a tunnel aligned with the building’s longitudinal axis, which also serves as the shipping route for finished wines.
• Mechanical and service equipment are discreetly housed within the tunnel, preserving the purity of visitor spaces.
• The underground halls exploit the thermal inertia of volcanic bedrock, ensuring stable conditions for fermentation and aging.
The contrast is deliberate: the cool, metallic cellar is all about efficiency and control, while the floating visitor spaces celebrate conviviality, pleasure, and spectacle.
The Sauska Tokaj Winery transcends the typology of an industrial facility. It is a cultural destination, an architectural statement, and an ambassador for Tokaj wines.
By fusing innovation with heritage, levity with gravity, precision with poetry, the building reflects the evolving spirit of a historic region. It embodies a future where architecture not only houses production but also communicates identity—where design itself becomes part of the terroir.
EGYPT: INFLUENCING BRITISH DESIGN 1775–2025
8 OCTOBER 2025 – 18 JANUARY 2026,
SIR JOHN SOANE’S MUSEUM
Sir John Soane’s Museum will present a major exhibition examining the enduring influence of ancient Egypt on British architecture and design.
The show will bring together rarely seen drawings from Soane’s own collection, alongside works by architects such as Robert Adam, Owen Jones and John Outram. Decorative objects ranging from Wedgwood ceramics and Regency silverware to Art Deco biscuit tins and Singer sewing machines will illustrate how Egyptian motifs filtered into both high design and everyday household items.
Architecture is at the centre of the exhibition, with case studies spanning 19th-century landmarks such as the Egyptian Hall in Piccadilly and Temple Works in Leeds, through to 20thcentury examples including London’s Arcadia Works and Carlton Cinemas, and Outram’s Sphinx Hill (1999).
The exhibition also reflects on Soane’s complex relationship with Egyptian style, from admiration of its monuments to criticism of its fashionable “mania” in Britain. Contemporary work by Cairoborn artist Sara Sallam and new drawings by John Outram extend the discussion into the present day.
Co-curator Dr Louise Stewart notes that the show highlights “the multitude of ways British architects and designers, as well as ordinary people, have engaged with Egyptian style over the past 250 years.”
LUMIADD CONCLUDES INAUGURAL “3 D UNLEASHED” LUMINAIRE DESIGN COMPETITION
LumiAdd has announced the successful conclusion of its first 3D Unleashed luminaire design competition, created to give lighting and interior designers freedom to explore new forms with additive manufacturing.
Sustainability was central to the initiative, with all LumiAdd products made using plant-based polymers and 3D printing. Freed from the limitations of traditional tooling, entrants experimented with intricate geometries, organic forms and
textures, showcasing the creative and environmental advantages of additive manufacturing.
“We launched 3D Unleashed to spread the word about the design freedom we offer and to see what designers could create,” said co-founder Jamie Norris Green.
“3D printing is transforming the lighting industry – supporting local manufacturing, accelerating innovation and minimising creative constraints.”
The competition welcomed purely conceptual entries, resulting in a wide variety of bold and imaginative submissions. The winning concept, Flames of the Aegean by interior architect and lighting designer Effie Polydouli, will now be developed by LumiAdd into a commercially available product.
Co-founder Lewis Smith added: “The design concepts we received were inspiring, bold and creative. Shortlisting was a real challenge, which speaks to the quality of submissions.”
Looking ahead, LumiAdd plans to make 3D Unleashed an annual competition, building a “Creator Series” that champions sustainability, innovation and design freedom.
EGGER’s extensive PerfectSense product portfolio offers you more design possibilities than ever before. Suitable for high-end furniture and interior design, our versatile and coordinated PerfectSense range is available in MDF, Lacquered Chipboard, Laminate and Edging, providing solutions for all design needs.
WHY GETTING A HANDLE ON DATA IS BIGGER THAN THE EU DATA ACT
The EU Data Act, which came into effect in September 2025, marks a pivotal shift in how data is accessed, shared and governed across industries. Applicable to any organisation using data from EU-based users or devices, the Act increases rights for both individuals and businesses to access, port and share data generated by use of connected devices. For architecture firms, this regulation is more than a compliance challenge - it’s a strategic opportunity.
The EU Data Act joins a growing wave of data-centric frameworks, including GDPR, DORA and the EU AI Act, that are reshaping how organisations manage, share and protect data. However, aiming for compliance alone misses a key opportunity. For architects and other AEC firms, aligning data management to comply with the Act should be a catalyst for them to transform data from a burden into an asset. The real value lies in leveraging their newfound data capabilities to drive innovation, improve collaboration, and unlock competitive advantage.
Turning data into a strategic asset
In a landscape shaped by digital transformation and AI acceleration, data has emerged as a critical driver of competitiveness. The ability to harness data effectively is no longer optional -it’s a key differentiator that influences everything from project delivery and client trust to innovation and
profitability. Yet, over half of AEC firms say data management issues are their primary challenge, and despite growing investment in digital tools to enhance their capabilities, only 20% of firms consider themselves to be ‘advanced’ in digital transformation.
This is why a modern data strategy must go beyond simply meeting regulatory requirements. It’s about transforming data into a core business asset. A “Cloud Smart” approach meets business and regulatory needs by allocating the right platform for each workload - whether that’s private, public, sovereign or edge computing. By balancing centralised governance with flexible, distributed data architectures, firms are better positioned to unlock the full value of their data, accelerate innovation, future-proof operations and maintain a competitive edge.
High-profile firms are already setting the pace. With C-suite leaders viewing data as a monetisable asset, rather than a cost, these organisations are building integrated workflows which interrogate their wealth of amassed data using AI and business intelligence tools to generate smarter insights and deliver greater value. From identifying critical factors affecting delivery timescales to creating ‘blueprints’ for successful future project completion, this shift is enabling better business outcomes.
Becoming Cloud Smart
Becoming “Cloud Smart’ isn’t a one-sizefits-all journey. It’s a tailored evolution that begins with a clear understanding of where your organisation stands today. This means assessing existing IT infrastructure, identifying inefficiencies and uncovering areas where data can deliver the most value.
From this foundation, architecture firms can build a tailored roadmap that balances agility with governance, and innovation with compliance. But this goes beyond technology, it requires a cultural shift toward a “one business” mindset, where silos are broken down, data flows across teams, and stakeholders can make smarter decisions.
Leading with data
Legislative changes, data sovereignty, IoT edge devices and a trend towards proprietary AI are reshaping AEC firm’s data management strategies. Those leading the charge are pivoting to become Cloud Smart, mitigating challenges around security, control, and unplanned public cloud costs.
The EU Data Act is a wake-up call for architecture firms to get a handle on their data and transform entrenched behaviours. By modernising their digital strategies, firms can position themselves to lead with data - turning compliance into a competitive edge.
By Dave Adamson, (pictured above) Solutions Director at Creative ITC
NORTHUMBRIA ARCHITECTURE STUDENTS SCOOP TOP RIBA AWARDS
FALMOUTH UNIVERSITY
JOINS NATIONAL CONSORTIUM TO REIMAGINE HEALTHY PLACES
Falmouth University has joined a pioneering UK-wide consortium that will investigate how the built environment can better support human and planetary health.
The project, funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC), is led by Oxford Brookes University in collaboration with Cardiff University.
Together they will form the Architectural Design and Humanities Promoting Transformation (AD[A]PT) consortium, which launches in 2026. Its unique model will fund 20 PhD researchers to examine barriers faced by architects, planners, policymakers, and conservationists in developing healthier, more sustainable places.
As the only specialist creative arts university in the partnership, Falmouth will offer four funded doctoral studentships under the theme Healthy People, Place and Planet. These will explore a wide range of topics, from how design can help achieve the UK’s net zero and biodiversity goals, to ways that places can better promote wellbeing, health, and inclusion across diverse communities.
The consortium brings together 13 leading organisations, including RIBA, the Royal Town Planning Institute, the Chartered Institute of Building, and the Royal Cornwall Hospital Trust NHS. These partners will help shape the research, host students in practice, and connect academic findings to realworld challenges.
Applications for the first PhD cohort will open in late 2025, with students beginning their research in autumn 2026.
Students from Northumbria University’s Department of Architecture and Built Environment have achieved national recognition with a series of award wins and commendations across prestigious industry competitions.
At the RIBA North East Student Awards, final-year BA Architecture student Ian Dominguez won the Part 1 Award with The Engine Wharf, a design for a ferry terminal and regeneration strategy for Hebburn’s former shipyard. Inspired by the industrial heritage of the Tyne, Dominguez drew on the language of steam turbines to create an ambitious and innovative scheme. Judges praised the project for its radical vision and inventive use of models to communicate narrative and experience.
In the Part 2 category, Degree Apprenticeship student Lee Thackray was awarded for Momentum, a proposal for a Museum and Innovation Centre in Newcastle. Combining energy infrastructure with civic architecture, the project harnesses tidal power, integrates carbon-sequestering technologies, and reimagines Pottery Lane as a hub for innovation. Judges described it as “a genuinely superb
project” with advanced sustainable design thinking at its core.
The successes extended beyond RIBA. Third-year Degree Apprentice Amelia Swaby was Highly Commended in the Architects for Health Student Design Awards for The Nature of Therapy, a rehabilitation and mental health facility that harnesses nature to support recovery. She also won Best Presentation at the Student Seminar.
Meanwhile, Katherine “Kitty” McKay received a commendation in the RIBAJ/ Future Architects Film Competition 2025 for Inhabitation, an exploration of architecture and rave culture through music, imagery, and voice-over.
These accolades highlight the creative talent emerging from Northumbria and reflect the department’s growing reputation for producing visionary designers engaged with sustainability, heritage, and social impact.
Top: The Engine Wharf by Ian Dominguez Left: The Nature of Therapy by Amelia Swaby Below: Momentum by Lee Thackray
