Home Designer & Architect

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Gaia help more professionals than ever enhance underfloor heating skills with CPD seminars

Leaders in underfloor heating – Gaia – are seeing an increase in demand for their comprehensive CPD seminars, reflecting the growing interest in energy-efficient heating solutions across the UK and Ireland.

CPD, which stands for Continuous Professional Development, involves structured learning, designed to help industry professionals maintain and enhance their skills and knowledge on specific topics relevant to their field.

Gaia offer regular virtual CPD seminars to specifiers, architects, surveyors and mechanical engineers who are interested in learning more about underfloor heating.

“Our online CPD sessions are suitable for a variety of professionals and are great for enhancing your knowledge of underfloor heating. There’s certainly been more uptake recently, not least because underfloor heating itself is becoming even more in demand as an energy-efficient heating solution” says Steven Rooney, Director of Gaia.

Gaia’s CPD seminars cover key topics relating to electric and wet underfloor heating, ranging from the systems themselves to the regulations which impact them.

This includes system design, floor structures and recent changes to Part L Building Regulations and the Future Homes Standard. The sessions also provide a detailed history of underfloor heating, as well as an overview of the latest innovations and market trends.

The underfloor heating experts say their sessions help attendees understand the numerous

benefits of underfloor heating - from energy efficiency to cost-effectiveness.

“By attending our CPD seminars, professionals gain invaluable insights into the underfloor heating market, helping their projects benefit from the latest industry advancements and energy-efficient solutions. Our expert team always ensure that attendees leave our sessions with a wealth of knowledge and a well-rounded perspective” adds Steven.

Gaia has 35 years’ experience designing, supplying and installing underfloor heating systems for large-scale residential and commercial developments.

As Gaia continues to grow its influence in the heating industry, the business’ CPD offering has become a key part of its service as they commit to sharing their expertise and knowledge with professionals across the UK and Ireland.

“We’ve already delivered four CPD seminars this year, with excellent feedback from attendees, and have even more sessions on the horizon. If you’re interested in attending one of our upcoming sessions, simply get in touch – we can even tailor the seminar to your team’s specific needs!” concludes Steven.

For more information about Gaia, visit: www.gaia.co.uk

The Ultimate Gift - The World’s Most Beautiful Racing Simulator

A blend of modern design & UK engineering in a striking piece of home sculpture

Prodrive and CALLUM Designs have designed the ultimate gift - a home Racing Simulator that is as technically advanced as it is beautiful. The pairing of the best in UK engineering innovation and design have come together to create a piece of modern art and furniture that would take pride of place in any home or venue.

A sweeping canopy formed of 16 layers of beech wood encased in an elegant, lacquered black gloss finish, envelops the suspended, sculpted carbon monocoque. The extra-wide seat, the screen, racing style steering wheel, and pedal box, together with premium headphones, create a peerless, immersive racing experience.

As more digital devices find places within our homes Prodrive Chairman, David Richards had the idea to create this striking piece of home sculpture. “The last few years have seen an explosion in people taking up gaming and esports. I wanted to develop something that married that technology with contemporary furniture, something that you would be proud to have on display in your home like a grand piano, rather than tucked out of the way. I’m proud of the result; our Prodrive Racing Simulator is something that would not look out of place in a gallery of contemporary art.”

Designer & Architect

The project began in earnest when Richards approached CALLUM, who were closely involved with Prodrive having helped style the company’s ‘Hunter’ all terrain racing and ‘Hypercar’ projects. “This design intrigues. You know it’s a simulator, but then you have to look again. The sweeping form and ‘piano black’ gloss finish take the Racing Simulator to a whole new place - it’s a piece of furniture that can elegantly sit in a living space,” comments Ian Callum CBE, CALLUM Designs.

The Prodrive Racing Simulator applies 40 years of racing knowledge to deliver the best simulation experience possible. Having raced in almost every major motorsport discipline and winning multiple world championships, the engineers based at Prodrive HQ in Banbury, UK, are in the unique position to have been able to design, build and calibrate this incredibly faithful recreation of real-world racing. Furthermore, combining the company’s proficiency with the best technology has produced an exceptional immersive experience. From the feedback through the steering wheel to the precise amount of braking, the absorbing nature of the Prodrive Racing Simulator matches the spectacular CALLUM design.

The Prodrive Racing Simulator is now available in the Technology Department, Fifth Floor, at Harrods, London. Harrods enquiries: +44 20 7730 1234.

To reserve your Racing Simulator directly with Prodrive, visit www.prodrive.com/simulator

AW24: EXPERTS REVEAL SEASON’S 5 NEW STATEMENT

The experts at BoConcept share what single, statement items will elevate homes in AW24 following the release of their new collection.

Home Designer & Architect

What if one piece could transform a whole room, and even how you live in it? For AW24, BoConcept looks to statement furniture rooted in creativity and craftsmanship as part of its new-season campaign, encouraging consumers to ‘See home in a new light’.

STATEMENT PIECES

“For AW24, we are incredibly excited about the diversity of the new collection”, says Collection and Visuals director Claus Ditlev Jensen. “What the hero pieces have in common is superior craftsmanship, and their ability to transform the form and feel of a space.”

From the Bellagio sofa’s cloud-like properties to the heritage-inspired Seoul dining chair, we asked the BoConcept designers to share their inspirations behind these designs and what powers their stand-out appeal.

The ‘Cloud Sofa’: Bellagio

New for AW24 is the Bellagio sofa, designed by Anders Nørgaard. “It is one big statement piece with the power to command a space”, says Nørgaard. “If you come into the room, your eyes will be drawn to the sofa, and you’ll simply have to sit on it.”

Beyond the sofa’s showstopping looks, it also offers a tactile experience. “Bellagio looks as comfortable as it feels,” says its designer Anders Nørgaard. “It’s like sitting in the clouds.”

Channel stitching, with its clean lines and structured appeal, brings a level of refinement to the design. The detail creates a visual rhythm that draws the eye in and adds depth, elevating it from ordinary to extraordinary. “Channel stitching has been making waves across the industry”, adds Ditlev Jensen, “and we are thrilled to introduce our take on it.”

Bellagio sofa

The ‘Conversational Table’: Santiago

For AW24, there are two new additions to the popular Santiago collection, with a round, extendable dining table and a sideboard, designed by Morten Georgsen.

“With the new Santiago table, the combination of round tabletops and smoothly curved bases, adorned with beautiful, bevelled details creates a simple yet striking design,” says Ditlev Jensen. With a standard diameter of 135 cm, the table comfortably accommodates family meals. But when the occasion calls for more space, there are extension leaves stored discreetly within the design, expanding it to 181 cm, easily seating up to 8 people.

“The round table is increasingly popular,” says its designer, Morten Georgsen. “Why? Because it’s conversational. Everybody can speak to each other and look each other in the eyes.” This creates a natural gathering place for family and friends – as well as a beautifully designed focal point for the room.

On a more practical level, Georgsen says the round table takes up relatively little space compared to how many can sit around it, too. “Because the base is a column rather than legs, there are no obstacles. Then the ceramic top makes it an extraordinary piece.”

Santiago table

The ‘Mid-century Sideboard’: Santiago

Inspired by iconic mid-century designs that conjure feelings of cocktail parties in the Hollywood hills, the Santiago sideboard is a striking statement piece that was born for entertaining. “It embodies elegance with a contemporary twist, drawing inspiration from traditional Danish craftsmanship”, says Ditlev Jensen.

In the 1950s, sideboards often featured timber concertina doors and this feature plays out in the ‘stripes’ of Santiago. “The stripes are incredibly dynamic, and together with the organic curves, your eyes can’t help but be drawn to this piece.”

What’s really exciting – and channelling those retro Pacific Coast vibes – is the optional bar

section with drop-down front, mirror backing and integrated lights that turn on when opening.

The bevelled design features are enhanced by a choice of a luxurious ceramic or wood top. The sideboard can be customised to suit various styles, spaces, storage needs and price levels and is available in two sizes.

For Georgsen, the beauty of this piece lies in its balance of form. “Santiago is a statement piece that can easily stand alone because it has extremely beautiful proportions.” Add a martini glass on that ceramic top and its allure is irresistible.

Santiago sideboard

The ‘Sculptural Coffee Table’: Tivoli

Travertine has been favoured for centuries as a material that provides an elegant touch to any interior. With this architectural spirit in mind, BoConcept introduces Tivoli – a mini capsule of sculpted coffee tables with a travertineeffect finish.

“Tivoli’s eye-catching design adds a stylish edge to any space,” says Ditlev Jensen. “The boldness lies not only in its aesthetic appeal but also in its ability to elevate the ambience of any space.”

Tivoli differs from traditional production methods because it uses artificial materials, giving the aesthetic gravitas of stone without the gravity – it’s lightweight enough to move around your space as you wish. Its core is crafted from concrete then covered with an imitated travertine finish. This unique overlay carefully reproduces the patterns and textures found in natural travertine stone.

For Georgsen, creating Tivoli was akin to making models with Playdough as a child. “We were sculpting from 3D designs in a very free way, so it was such a creative process. A lot of furniture is built on geometry, but these are not. These are pieces of art for your home.”

The table is introduced in three distinct shapes, offering versatility and flexibility in design. “Each shape stands strong as an individual piece. However, they are also designed to harmonise effortlessly when combined, forming a cohesive ‘island’ of tables,” says Ditlev Jensen.

Tivoli coffee table

The ‘Heritage Dining Chair’: Seoul

The Seoul dining chair, designed by Henrik Pedersen, “perfectly encapsulates the essence of our Danish design heritage,” says Ditlev Jensen.

Grounded in principles of simplicity, craftsmanship and quality materials, its clean lines and understated elegance pay homage to the timeless design traditions that have defined Danish design for generations – yet with a modern and contemporary touch.

“We wanted to create an ‘all night’ chair – where you can sit and chat all night,” says Pedersen. “The challenge was to achieve a stylish, sleek look without compromising on comfort”.

The armrests help with this aim thanks to their shorter length. “The short armrest has a streamlining effect on the design but also, from a functional point of view, it is much more comfortable for dining.”

The option for upholstered ups the comfort factor too, while the A-framestyle shape and angled legs give a light design expression. The Seoul chair is available in three colours – Natural Oak, Dark Oak and Black – with each shade of wood bringing its own distinct character.

So what does Seoul bring to a room? “Don’t underestimate the impact of a wooden chair,” says Pedersen. “It’s the craftsmanship, the inviting curves and just the wonderfully tactile qualities wood brings. It invites you in. You want to feel it.”

BoConcept was founded in 1952 in Denmark and is today the world’s most global furniture retailer, with over 340 stores spanning 67 countries. The brand works with award-winning designers to create collections of furniture, accessories and lighting for private homes and business spaces. Under the heading ‘Live Ekstraordinær’, BoConcept is committed to bringing its flexible Interior Design Service and industry leading customisation to spaces both private and public – without compromising on design vision or aesthetics.

Seoul dining chair

Luxury Retirement Villages, Rangeford, Sign Interior Design Guru Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen

Rangeford Villages, the award-winning leader in luxury retirement living for the 60+ community, is thrilled to announce an exclusive collaboration with acclaimed British interior designer, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen. As the newly appointed Design Curator, Llewelyn-Bowen brings his renowned creativity, maximalism approach and fresh style to Rangeford’s developments, offering a sophisticated touch to the brand’s luxurious living spaces.

Hailed as a true British icon, Llewelyn-Bowen’s extraordinary talent, expertise, and magnetic personality have made him a household name. His passion for design innovation aligns perfectly with Rangeford’s vision to redefine retirement living. This groundbreaking and exciting collaboration marks a first-of-its-kind partnership, setting a new standard for luxury and design in the retirement sector. All fabrics, upholstery, furniture, artworks and accessories are handpicked and sourced from the Laurence’s very own brand and patents. July ’24 saw Laurence open his first Rangeford design offering in their stunning Siddington Park residence in Cirencester, Gloucestershire.

Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen comments:

“As you get older you must not stop being brave, you must not compromise, and you must not think, I’m old now, so I’d better turn down the volume. Rangeford has proven it’s about keeping the volume up, keeping up the rock ‘n’ roll, and keeping the excitement. Design is there to help, it is there to make you feel a lot better about who you are, where you are and how you live - this collaboration is the perfect example of that.”

CEO of Rangeford Villages, Howard Nankivell says, ‘Laurence is the undisputed king of wild, spectacular and adventurous design. At Rangeford we strive to really raise the bar for retirement living, creating thriving new communities that promote healthy active lifestyles, hobbies, friendships, and wellbeing, so we are absolutely delighted with this partnership.’

www.rangefordvillages.co.uk

Why sustainable plumbing practices are the key to a greener future

Plumbers play a crucial role in determining the impact of our buildings on the environment. The need to adopt sustainable systems and materials is paramount if we are to create a greener future, and young plumbers have the power to create real change.

With an ageing workforce causing an industry skills shortage, there is an urgent need for new plumbing talent. So, how can young people enter the workforce and what opportunities are there to create lasting change for our environment?

The plumbing workforce as it stands

The UK plumbing industry faces significant challenges due to an ageing workforce, with one third of current plumbers over 50 and nearing retirement. Currently, there are approximately 150,000 plumbers in the UK, a 4.19% decrease from 157,400 in September 2005, showing a decline in talent in recent decades.

To fill this gap, by 2032 over 70,000 new plumbers will be required, according to the UK Trade Skills Index 2023. This highlights the urgent need to attract new talent and inspire younger generations to consider careers in plumbing

As society increasingly recognises the significance of sustainability and the impact of our actions on the environment, it’s essential that we incorporate greener practices into our daily lives.

and trade. Addressing this skills gap is also vital in addressing the future sustainability and growth of the industry. More needs to be done to inform young people about the opportunities that are available, such as apprenticeships, and how they can seize them.

The role of sustainability in plumbing

Young people are increasingly aware of sustainability, yet many feel uncertain about how to make a meaningful impact in their daily lives. One powerful way to contribute is through skilled trades like plumbing, as tradespeople can take charge by actively implementing ecofriendly practices.

By changing the use of materials like plastics, the plumbing industry can make strides forward to reduce and limit the impact of construction on both the environment and human health. The construction sector alone is responsible for 40% of global emissions, contributing to 23% of air pollution, 40% of drinking water contamination, and 50% of landfill waste.

Plastics also pose a significant threat to human health – research reveals that microplastics can now be found in 90% of human tissues, including the lungs and liver. These tiny particles result from the breakdown and disposal of everyday plastic products like water bottles, carrier bags, cosmetics, and clothing. Plumbers can help mitigate this risk by opting for alternative piping materials from the outset.

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World Architecture Day 2024: Firms “ambitious about workforce growth” Deltek research reveals

Research from Deltek, the leading provider of software and solutions for projectbased businesses, reveals that over half (56%) of architecture firms plan to grow their workforces this year. With World Architecture Day focusing on the next generation, the findings demonstrate the talent ambitions from firms to unlock growth.

Recognising the value of their team members, a third of architecture firms (32%) are prioritising employee upskilling and training for 2024 and beyond. This commitment to professional development is complemented by plans to invest in new technologies (36%) and elevate client services and satisfaction (34%).

Research from KPMG UK highlights a promising alignment between company values and employee expectations. A significant portion of the workforce, especially younger professionals, are seeking employers who demonstrate a strong commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals. This presents a fantastic opportunity for architecture firms to attract and retain top talent by showcasing their dedication to sustainable and responsible practices.

While achieving ESG targets presents some challenges, the architecture industry is rising to the occasion. An impressive 70% of architects are planning to increase their commitment to ESG goals, demonstrating their adaptability and forward-thinking approach. This proactive stance not only addresses current concerns but also positions firms to thrive in an increasingly conscious market, potentially setting new industry standards for sustainable and ethical practices.

Neil Davidson, Group Vice President, Deltek, comments: “World Architecture Day’s 2024 theme, ‘Empowering the Next Generation in Participatory Urban Design,’ is an inspiring theme that encourages this next generation of architects to take ownership of their communities and drive forward-thinking urban development in exciting new directions. Architectural firms are ambitious about workforce growth and the potential for diverse perspectives to shape new

and sustainable developments. Our research reveals a golden opportunity for firms to enhance their talent strategies and accelerate their ESG progress with the enthusiasm and active participation of the next generation.”

“To continue in their upward trajectory, firms must focus on creating opportunities for up-andcoming architects to drive meaningful change. With the rise of smart cities and technological transformation young minds will be essential to creating sustainable and resilient urban environments and empowering the workforce of the future.”

Firms are looking ahead to the next cohort of architects. One in three (28%) are planning to attract more talent this year and beyond. The next wave of promising young architects, with their digital-first mindset, promise to unlock even greater success for firms in the future.

Deltek customer, DesignInc, is one example of an architecture firm investing in the next generation to drive sustainable urban environments. Scott Huston, Head of Knowledge, Systems and Compliance at DesignInc, adds: “We support emerging talent with scholarships and educational opportunities that enhance Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representation within architecture and design generally.

The programme provides support and mentorship, while enriching diversity in architectural discussions reflective of the communities they serve. This helps nurture the next generation of architects which—in turn— helps both our industry and our business.”

For more information, visit www.deltek.com

Sliding vs Folding: How to Choose Your Door Type

Both sliding and bi-fold doors present plenty of unique benefits to modern spaces, but what should homeowners consider when making a selection between the two?

Panoramic views, superior natural light and an improved flow between indoor and outdoor living - it’s clear why so many embrace sliding and bi-fold door applications in their living spaces. Yet, as many look to add value to their homes, perhaps less clear is how to choose between the two door types when comparing them.

Sliding and folding door features are naturally aesthetic in design and are often used to enhance the style and layout of modern spaces. On the surface, the choice between sliding and bi-fold doors may seem like it hinges on personal preference only. In fact, there’s much more to consider than style, with the unique characteristics of both systems offering a wide range of benefits related to the door’s operation, placement and functionality. With that in mind, what should homeowners look out for when navigating the offerings associated with each door profile?

Home Designer & Architect

Written by David Knollman Brio Business Development Manager

Image courtesy of Mumford & Wood

To fold or slide

Noticeably, the main difference between sliding and folding doors is in the way that they open and close. Bi-fold doors are typically made of several panels (usually between two and seven) and are connected by a series of hinges and a concealed track running along the floor or ceiling. When opened, bi-fold panels will fold back on themselves, concertina-style, revealing a complete opening and stacking together in the process. As a result, bi-fold doors are ideal for high-traffic areas where ease of access is important and there is a small amount of space available for panels to be stacked.

Sliding doors, on the other hand, are usually constructed of fewer and larger panels. As such, even when closed, a sliding door feature can provide clearer, uninterrupted views, which is fitting for those with access to year-round idyllic garden scenery. When operated, the panels of a sliding door will open, usually on the internal side of a fixed panel or wall. In doing so, users have a tidier opening, free of stacked panels that would otherwise take up space, which is useful in more compact areas of the home. When pressed for space at the side of the required opening, a ‘telescope’ opening can also be utilised, which consists of narrower panels that require less space at the side of the door.

Attention to detail

In any case, sliding and bi-fold door applications can offer superior functionality, visual appeal and space-saving capabilities when compared with traditional swing doors. These universal benefits have encouraged a growth of options in sliding and folding door systems, and alongside the different sizes, styles and configurations, it’s important to consider where a door may be placed and who may be using it.

With exterior doors for example, a bi-fold system with single open access may offer greater ease of access into the outdoors, regardless of setting. Bi-fold door applications can open outwards or inwards and may be applied to both large and small openings. Where fully open bi-fold doors are useful in larger family settings or group gatherings, ‘traffic’ door configurations allow users to move through a single panel and remove the need to fold each panel back. In comparison, external sliding doors offer a

straightforward solution for all requirements, whereby users may simply slide their door open to the amount that’s required at the timewhether to let out pets, empty the rubbish, or to completely open up their home to the sun and fresh air.

Inside, both folding and sliding door features can elevate the visual appearance of homes, with spaces made to feel more open and airier. Alternatively, during winter spells, homes can become cozier by closing off entire rooms and prioritising warm living areas. Internal bi-fold doors are effective at splitting large communal areas up to create smaller spaces, which is especially beneficial in the colder months when homeowners are looking to save on energy costs. The cost-saving potential rises when bifold systems are placed between a lounge or dining room and a conservatory for example, with this area of the home known for losing heat during the winter and conserving heat in the summer.

Flexibility aside, daily use is another consideration to make when it comes to internal doors. Bi-fold and sliding systems are often lightweight in design and easy to use, with sliding doors safer to operate. With a sliding motion, users eliminate the need to open doors into the direction of foot traffic whilst also removing the potential finger trapping risks that come with slamming doors - making them a suitable option for homes with children, especially when a soft-close device is utilised. For modern living areas where floorspace is limited, sliding doors can also save noticeable amounts of room, and as such, are often utilised in small flats and student accommodation. To maximise space even further, pocket doors offer an additional benefit of disappearing into the wall when not required, freeing up valuable wall space that a standard sliding door application would normally require.

For those on the fence, it’s essential to review what may be best suited to your property by taking into account the whole picture and not only opting for a stylised approach. Sliding and folding doors can add value in a number of areas by sharing key advantages, several dissimilarities and a unique set of benefits. With that said, homeowners are urged to review these key considerations when making their choice - only then can one ensure their chosen hardware is practical in application.

Designer & Architect

Four questions for Philippe Starck

Looking at the evolution of the iconic Starck barrel and the philosophy behind the timeless design.

• Uplift of the design classic after 30 years

• Reduction to the bare essentials for a timeless impression

• Durability and functional elegance

To mark the 30th anniversary of the legendary Starck barrel, Duravit has renewed its partnership with Philippe Starck to present an updated version of this design classic. Originally acclaimed as a transformative revolution, the updated design demonstrates how glossy and matt ceramics, new lacquers, and the innovative c-bonded technology can combine form and function to produce a unified whole.

Philippe Starck casts some light on the principles that drive the evolution of his designs and explains how durability and sustainability are the central values of his work.

In a society that preaches immediacy, Duravit is a lesson: confirming that what is important is the center, the know-how and that there is no substitute for a job well done. A value that I completely share,” said Philippe Starck (picture source: Alberto Zanetti)

1. Mr. Starck, what motivated you to reinterpret the design of the iconic Starck barrel after 30 years?

This re-edition is more an uplift rather than a reinterpretation. We kept the same minimal and essential design that comes from the early ages of humanity. The barrel is a bucket, the simplest and most efficient means for humans to store and use water in their homes. A timeless bucket, now treated with the latest technology and rigor with new innovative materials, elegant finishes and a wide range of color combinations.

2. How do you approach new design projects and when do you know that a work has reached its final, perfect state?

I don’t know about perfection, but longevity is certainly a sign that the product is good, that it brings a service. The Starck Barrel was the right product 30 years ago, and it still is today because it is not based on any trends, but on humanity.

3. Your approach to design is based on reducing something to the very basics. How do you integrate this minimalism into your creative process and how is it reflected in the development of the Starck barrel?

The main rule is timelessness, because today’s consumer society, advertising and marketing, push us to a hyper- temporality full of trends. It must stop. Our earth cannot take it any longer. Life is a continuum. Our environment and our

evolution do not follow trends nor work by decade. A creation has to be timeless, honest and of extremely high quality - materially and culturally - to guarantee its longevity, which is the main ecological parameter today.

To achieve timelessness, I always try to find the core of the project, the backbone, its minimum, and actually its legitimacy to exist. The Starck Barrel is based on this idea, it is the absolute minimum: a pipe to drain the water up and a bucket to store and use it. I didn’t invent anything, I simply drew something that has always belonged to our human collective memory, our subconscious; something eternal, something that is not fashionable or trendy, but emotional because above all, creation should always be about love, poetry and humor, not to mention vision.

4. How important is sustainability for your creative process, and to what extent does it influence your design decisions?

Sustainability has always been present in my work. It is a strong conviction, because I understood the importance of ecology at a very early age. I was 17 when, on the then desert island of Formentera, I met an American who told me he was an ecologist and taught me about ecology.

When it comes to ecology, the first questions you must ask yourself are always the same: Do I really need it? Does it deserve to exist? If we are honest, in 80% of cases the answer is no. Therefore, not consuming and not producing are the best ecological actions we can take. On the other hand, if the answer is yes, we need to choose or create the best product, intelligent and honest, made from sustainable materials, and which will give us the best service for our whole lives, before we can pass it on to our children and our children’s children.

Reboot: To mark the 30th anniversary of the iconic Starck barrel, Duravit has renewed its partnership with Philippe Starck to present an updated version of the design classic. (Image source: Duravit AG)

Two generations: the Starck Barrel is celebrating its 30th anniversary with an upgrade. A large selection of colors for washbasin, furniture, and handles brings the elegant c-bonded variant of this icon right up to date and opens up opportunities for unique and contemporary designs.

(Image source: Duravit AG)

Construction sector insight: trends, concerns and the future for the industry

Author: Brendan Clarkson, Director, PKF Littlejohn Advisory

The construction sector in the United Kingdom is on the cusp of a significant transition. It is projected that a decline in interest rates towards the latter part of this year, in conjunction with a resurgence in supply chain efficiencies, may lay the groundwork for industry expansion. Although not completely resolved, the supply chain appears to be stabilising.

Nevertheless, vigilance is advised as the threat of insolvency persists among suppliers, particularly those still grappling with the economic aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, challenges including a reduced appetite for public spending and private investment, and a declining industry workforce, continue to pose risks to the sector’s recovery.

In July 2024, there were 2,191 company insolvencies in England and Wales, 7% lower than June 2024 but 16% higher than July in the year prior,

according to Company Insolvency Statistics1. This number is still a great deal higher than during the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2014-2019 period. Many of these insolvencies can be attributed to an unstable, and indeed unpredictable political and economic environment, a byproduct of a busy election year across the globe, compounded further by the continuously high cost of doing business.

Trends for the construction industry

In recent years, the construction industry has experienced significant cost volatility, particularly in terms of material expenses. A shortage of global raw materials, and the consequently increased demand for them, has played a large part in the demise of many businesses in the wider sector. It has also resulted, however, in the dissolution of many distributors and suppliers, leading to delayed shipping times and a requirement for overseas sourcing, which bears significant cost.

The introduction of new materials has similarly placed additional pressure on the sector. While new materials promise long-term savings and sustainable benefits, they could drive costs higher in the short term.

In addition to these challenges, the UK construction industry is having to address significant labour shortages. According to recent reports, the sector needs an additional 251,500 workers by 2028 to meet expected demand2. Key trades such as carpenters, bricklayers, and plasterers are in particularly short supply. This shortage is driving up costs and creating delays in project timelines. Efforts to address these shortages include adding key construction roles to the shortage occupation list to encourage skilled migration. However, the industry must also focus on training and retaining domestic talent to ensure a sustainable workforce for the future.

Given this complexity, strategic planning and effective cost management is essential for the industry to successfully navigate these financial challenges.

Addressing concerns for the future of construction

Emma Reilly FCICM from Top Service, an expert in construction industry debt recovery, predicts that the UK construction sector is projected to experience a modest decline in activity for the rest of 2024, with growth anticipated to resume in 2025. The upcoming year is expected to bring a significant shift in the sector, with spending moving from repair and maintenance (R&M) activities to new builds. This too follows the priority of the recently elected Labour Government.

“Historically, R&M spending has shown resilience during economic downturns, maintaining steadier demand. However, the current economic climate, characterised by higher borrowing costs, is reshaping spending patterns,” she says. “This shift indicates a reorientation in the industry’s focus, prioritising new construction projects over repair and maintenance work. It’s a change that reflects both a response to consumer demand and a strategic adaptation to the evolving economic landscape.”

The residential sector, especially new build residential output, continues to be the most significantly impacted segment within the UK construction industry. The sector has experienced a sharp decline, primarily due to the compounded effects of high interest rates, which have resulted in increased mortgage costs which make home buying less attainable.

Meanwhile, the construction industry is witnessing a rise in insolvencies, underscoring the growing financial pressures and challenges within the sector. This trend is particularly pronounced among mid-sized contractors and developers, who are having to contend with inflation and a reduction in new project starts. Additionally, securing performance bonds and credit limits has become more difficult as financial institutions adopt a more cautious approach due to market instability. This rise in insolvencies highlights a broader concern regarding liquidity and financial health in the industry, prompting firms to adopt more a cautious and strategic approach to financial management and project planning.

Businesses in the construction industry need to prioritise prudent financial management to thrive in a tough economic environment. If they sense difficulties, then seeking help early, in turn, means that restructuring professionals have more options available to them to help steer the ship, and leave you to focus on business growth, rather than a fight for survival.

1 https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/company-insolvency-statistics-june-2024

2 https://www.citb.co.uk/about-citb/construction-industry-research-reports/construction-skills-network-csn

Brendan Clarkson

Over 1100 objections lodged as Albrighton comes out in force against Boningale Homes green belt grab

A controversial housing scheme that threatens 52-hectares of Shropshire green belt has received unprecedented opposition following the end of the consultation phase.

Over 1100 objections have been submitted against Boningale Homes speculative plans to build 800 houses in Albrighton in a move that will rip the heart out of the village and turn it into a town with creaking infrastructure and major traffic issues.

Albrighton Village Action Group (AVAG), which is made up of local volunteers, has welcomed the overwhelming support of residents and are now calling on Shropshire Council to stand on the right side of history by rejecting this speculative planning application that would destroy high quality greenbelt and

The scale of opposition is significant, with a 3700-strong petition already handed in (representing 83% of the local population) and now over 1100 objections lodged from residents.

Charlie Blakemore, Co-Chair of AVAG, commented: “We know that residents of the village are furious at Boningale Homes plan to rip the heart out of our village and destroy quality green belt, but even we are surprised at the scale of objections.

“Over 1100 residents have taken time to lodge their objections on the Shropshire Council Planning Portal, which clearly shows the level of deep feeling in the community that the location, and scale of this speculative

farmland forever.

proposal, is just not right.

“This is genuine lived-in knowledge that the village’s roads, infrastructure and amenities would simply not cope with this scale of unplanned overdevelopment.”

He continued:

“We’ve also seen a unanimous response from other local community groups, with Albrighton Flooding Action Group (AFLAG), Albrighton Development Action Group (ADAG) and Albrighton Parish Council all objecting and throwing their substantial weight behind our campaign.”

Claire Lakin, a founding member of Albrighton Village Action Group, continued: “We’ve long stressed that we’re not against new housing in the village and have been a strong supporter of the Local Plan that has put aside land to support the build of 771 properties.

AVAG, which has been supported throughout by local MP Mark Pritchard, has submitted its own 92page document and a specially produced drone objection video.

The group has also arranged technical reviews by two planning consultants and a lawyer and has submitted a further four professional objection documents – all funded by donations from local residents and businesses.

Increased traffic, road closures, pressure on creaking medical and transport infrastructure and negative impact on the high street have all been cited, whilst there is massive worry about the ecological damage the proposed development is going to cause and the negative impact of mental health and well-being by stripping away 52-hectares of productive farmland and green belt.

“This level of development alone represents nearly a 25% increase in the population of Albrighton, so you can’t say that we’re not doing our bit to provide local housing. This proposal from Boningale Homes is just pure greed and, you can tell by its scattergun approach, that it’s just throwing lots of applications around hoping that one sticks.”

She concluded: “The level of public objections has been fantastic. We were also buoyed with recent news confirming that the Local Plan does not need to be revised upwards in line with the new NPPF consultation proposals.”

Albrighton Village Action Group has already raised over £10,000 towards supporting its campaign and are hosting several charity events in the coming months.

(l-r) Steve Thomas, Duncan Reeves, Willowe Keeley, Charlie Blakemore, Dipika Price, Mark Pritchard MP, Jayne and Stephen Czira