March 7, 2023
Zutec delivers digital solution that puts residential building firms on the path to golden thread compliance

Zutec delivers digital solution that puts residential building firms on the path to golden thread compliance

Golden thread dashboard puts all building information and processes in one place to manage document collation, actions, approvals, gateways and compliance. Today, Zutec, the leading common data environment (CDE) for developers, clients and asset owners in the residential sector, announces the availability of its new Golden Thread Dashboard. Designed to

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Tradelink transforms interior layouts with AluSpace

Tradelink transforms interior layouts with AluSpace

Already well respected across the UK window industry for its high levels of service, product quality and value for money, Tradelink has further enhanced its offer to customers through the introduction of a new range of interior screening solutions: styled to complement the elegant slim lines of its widely specified

Read More »
Vattenfall and ScottishPower Renewables unveil kittiwake hotel

Vattenfall and ScottishPower Renewables unveil kittiwake hotel

Renewable developers Vattenfall and ScottishPower Renewables have unveiled the first completed kittiwake nesting structures to support consented offshore wind farms. Global kittiwake population has been estimated to have fallen by around 40% since the 1970s, so the kittiwake hotels are vital to protect the species. The nests will be able

Read More »
Plans revealed for Oldham's Old Library restoration

Plans revealed for Oldham’s Old Library restoration

Plans have been submitted for the second phase to restore Oldham’s Old Library. Digital modelling from the architect shows a modern interior that opens the building back up to the public, makes use of the space and preserves many of its original features. “This building has been special to many

Read More »
HelloParks expands in the southern gateway of the Hungarian capital

HelloParks expands in the southern gateway of the Hungarian capital

HelloParks, founded just over two years ago as a member of Futureal Group, is expanding further with the launch of its latest industrial real estate investment in Alsónémedi, where the company plans to build a 60,000 sqm hall in accordance with the highest sustainability standards. The successful completion of the

Read More »
Top 5 Considerations For Commercial Staircases

Top 5 Considerations For Commercial Staircases

Are you in the market for a new commercial staircase? If so, then this article is for you. From design considerations to safety features, there are many things to prioritize when selecting the perfect stairway for your business working space. This article will cover five key factors you should consider

Read More »
The 4 most fascinating palaces in the world

The 4 most fascinating palaces in the world

Palaces, which used to serve as homes for kings and queens, were constructed not only as royal abodes but also as a means to showcase power and prestige. Consequently, monarchs and emperors engaged in a competition to outdo each other by constructing extravagant summer homes and accumulating exquisite art collections

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Latest Issue
Issue 323 : Dec 2024

March 7, 2023

Zutec delivers digital solution that puts residential building firms on the path to golden thread compliance

Zutec delivers digital solution that puts residential building firms on the path to golden thread compliance

Golden thread dashboard puts all building information and processes in one place to manage document collation, actions, approvals, gateways and compliance. Today, Zutec, the leading common data environment (CDE) for developers, clients and asset owners in the residential sector, announces the availability of its new Golden Thread Dashboard. Designed to capture building information across the asset lifecycle, from design to digital handover and maintenance, the Zutec solution provides one place to store, register and manage information while helping firms meet regulatory compliance. Leveraging Zutec’s decades of experience, it has been specifically developed to support the construction and building maintenance industries to prepare for the imminent arrival of the final provisions of the Building Safety Act (BSA) 2022 later this year. Jeslin Joy, Head of Solutions Engineering at Zutec, says: “With the UK Government’s new building regulations putting an emphasis on digitising data, the golden thread of information will become a fundamental requirement for ensuring building safety and accountability. It is therefore more important than ever to have a robust client tool to manage information from design to build and beyond, and to prepare for this early. Taking the pain out of the document management process, our dashboard offers a comprehensive, consolidated and integrated perspective to building information for users, which is aimed at facilitating and achieving golden thread compliance for clients.” Providing a unified, top-level view of data, the Zutec Golden Thread Dashboard enables users to drill down and define, track and quality check all necessary documents required for compliance with the gateways set out in the BSA, as well as other building regulations.  Users can track actions, outstanding deliverables, snags, and remedial works against trade/work packages, so nothing falls through the cracks when it comes to the construction, operations and maintenance documents for a building. Managing RFIs, responses and changes to a build can be done within the tool, with details recorded for effective management of safety measures and auditing. Certificates due for renewal can also be monitored and updated.  With search and sharing functionality, all stakeholders get transparency which helps firms meet regulatory requirements in the operations phase too.  The user experience is simple, the journey quick, and the view is action-oriented.  This takes away the complexity normally seen in a CDE platform, so end users can focus on what matters most – ensuring the safety of tenants and proving their compliance with a full audit trail should it be needed. Administrators can also take advantage of the rich function offered by the Zutec platform, without it affecting the day-to-day user’s efficiency. Joy continued: “We are seeing asset owners and developers keen to firm up on their information management strategies, as the industry moves closer to achieving a golden thread of building information. Client CDEs play a vital role in this longer term; therefore we have built our dashboard in the Zutec CDE to minimise risk, enhance collaboration and streamline the transition of information from construction into the operations phase. By adopting our approach, you own your data so you can ensure critical information is always up-to-date and easily accessible. This instils confidence in building safety for operations teams, as well as occupants who see safety as a top priority.” With a specialism in digital handover from sister company Createmaster, getting started with the Zutec Golden Thread Dashboard has never been easier. As a fully managed service, documents are reviewed and uploaded by a team of experts that professionally collate and deliver handover packs for a seamless transition to operational departments.  This gives firms a digital representation of an asset that can be used by building owners, facilities managers and other stakeholders to make informed decisions. For clients, asset owners and developers looking to take the next step towards Golden Thread, Zutec is offering a proof-of-concept package so firms can try the solution on a project or asset before investing across a portfolio. To find out more, or to organise a demo, click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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M&E consultancy CPW almost doubles regional staff in just one year

M&E consultancy CPW almost doubles regional staff in just one year

LEADING sustainability and M&E firm CPW has continued its expansion in the East Midlands following the recruitment of 24 new starters.   The firm’s offices in Leicester, Derby and Nottingham now boast more than 50 members of staff, which marks an increase of almost 100% in the last 12 months and the biggest headcount to date. This remarkable growth has been cemented by a brand-new 3500sq ft office space in Nottingham opening late last year as further evidence of CPW’s growth and increased presence in the region.   Appointments have ranged from graduates to senior professionals, adding valuable expertise in design engineering and building information modelling (BIM) roles. Adam Harris, a newly appointed senior design engineer in CPW’s Nottingham office, said: “I’d heard great things about CPW before joining, so when I was looking for my next career move, it was an easy decision.   “The inclusive culture that runs through the firm has allowed me to share ideas with others more regularly than I have experienced in previous roles, which in turn allows me to consistently upskill and work with junior members of the team, which is crucial as they are the future of our industry.”  CPW is dedicated to developing young people and see it as its inherent responsibility to create professionals that will go on to shape the country’s engineering future. With a culture based on collaboration and sharing knowledge, the firm strives to not only offer an environment that nurtures growth but offer opportunity wherever possible.  Alastair Hirst, a senior design engineer who started with the firm at its Nottingham office in October last year, added: “Bridging the skills gap and recruiting the next generation grows more critical each year and it’s something I personally feel passionate about. I’m therefore thrilled that my role at CPW not only allows space to grow within my own career but also gives me the opportunity to lead others and develop my team skills – in turn helping the growth of those just starting their own careers.”  Carl Hubbard, director and Nottingham office co-lead at CPW, said: “Our presence within the East Midlands business community has been steadily expanding since 2003, but the additions of the last year have really accelerated our growth plans and will further solidify our presence in Derby, Leicester and Nottingham.   “We’re proud of our fantastic teams across all three offices and, being at our strongest staffing levels yet is testament to the top-quality work and the strong relationships we have built with our clients. We’re therefore looking forward to seeing what 2023 has in store for us.”  CPW is passionate about supporting skills, development and training, as well as nurturing young talent. With a leading apprenticeship programme that is now open for applications, CPW is proud to have more than 15% of its workforce currently part of the scheme, with a number of directors and senior team members starting their career via this route.  The international consultancy has more than 250 staff based across 13 offices and works across a wide range of sectors including healthcare, residential, education and more. The firm has sustainability at its core and specialises in designing and integrating a full range of MEP solutions into existing and new buildings.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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Tradelink transforms interior layouts with AluSpace

Tradelink transforms interior layouts with AluSpace

Already well respected across the UK window industry for its high levels of service, product quality and value for money, Tradelink has further enhanced its offer to customers through the introduction of a new range of interior screening solutions: styled to complement the elegant slim lines of its widely specified window and door offerings. Suitable for both residential and commercial applications, the AluSpace Internal Screening System has been developed to create a light and spacious ambience within interior settings.  The versatile products are also viewed as being a solution for dividing and delineating various shapes and sizes of room, thanks to the wide variety of configurations available. These include hinged single and double doors, as well as pivot and sliding doors to install within the fixed glazed screen.  Further options include visible hinges or concealed pivot or sliding mechanisms, enabling the systems to be completely tailored to meet virtually any design style.  The frames are single glazed, normally with toughened glass, and can be supplied with a choice of 6, 8 or 18mm thicknesses: providing acoustic attenuation as well as a high degree of thermal isolation and excellent light transmission. For further design flexibility, there is also a wide range of accessories including a choice of classic, modern and industrial handles; all of which may be supplied in a matched, contrasting or complementary colour to the screen and doors. Stuart Judge, MD for Tradelink, reflected: “The launch of AluSpace is very much in step with current trends for customers improving their properties, including wanting to create home offices or sub-dividing existing floorplans to make better use of available space. The made-to-measure screens and door options are available on a three to four week delivery.”  For further information, please visit https://tradelinkdirect.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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Hands-on with engineering for schools with Baxi and Primary Engineer

Hands-on with engineering for schools with Baxi and Primary Engineer

Primary school teachers in the Preston area are set to introduce the world of engineering to Key Stages 1 & 2 children through a series of engaging classroom projects created by Primary Engineer in partnership with Baxi. This is the second year running that Baxi is supporting the Primary Engineer programmes in Preston. Working with Primary Engineer, the company’s engineers will support teachers as they deliver the Primary Engineer Construction project to children in ten local primary schools.  The first milestone of the project was a training session for the participating teachers on the Construction projects, held at Preston College and joined by Baxi engineers. These projects have been carefully designed to help the children develop skills such as visualisation, creative problem-solving, testing and evaluation, and teamwork and communication. The Mayor of Preston, Neil Darby, came to watch as together the teachers and Baxi engineers built the projects which will bring engineering to a new generation. Nathalie Cachet-Gaujard, Head of Partnerships for North of England at Primary Engineer, said: “We are delighted to have the support and commitment of Baxi to help raise awareness of engineering and the career opportunities it offers, whilst helping to build a diverse generation of future engineers.” Baxi is at the forefront of heating and hot water design solutions. But the industry is undergoing considerable transformation, and creative engineering experts are in high demand. Karen Boswell, MD of Baxi UK & Ireland, said: “Baxi has been part of the Preston community for over 150 years and we’re delighted to continue supporting local schools with this programme. Engineering offers so many varied and exciting opportunities, including designing and building products and services that help decarbonise heat for communities and the environment. Initiatives such as Primary Engineer give us the confidence that we can continue to commit investment in capable and career focused school leavers and graduates to help us grow in the years ahead.” Harrison Carey, Product Design Engineer at Baxi, is one of the ten Baxi engineers who volunteered to take part in the Primary Engineer’s programme. He said: “Primary Engineer is a fun and hands-on way to introduce children to the world of engineering. It’s fantastic to see the children unleash their imagination using skills they’ve learnt in the classroom! This will be my second year working with Primary Engineer and I hope to contribute for many more to come. Engineering plays such a vital role in our communities and it’s rewarding to see children showing interest from such a young age.” To find out more about how Baxi is supporting the next generation of engineers, click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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Vattenfall and ScottishPower Renewables unveil kittiwake hotel

Vattenfall and ScottishPower Renewables unveil kittiwake hotel

Renewable developers Vattenfall and ScottishPower Renewables have unveiled the first completed kittiwake nesting structures to support consented offshore wind farms. Global kittiwake population has been estimated to have fallen by around 40% since the 1970s, so the kittiwake hotels are vital to protect the species. The nests will be able to accommodate around 430 pairs of kittiwakes and will help preserve the species for years to come. A research programme was undertaken and an advisory group – which included representatives from Natural England, RSPB, East Suffolk Council and the Marine Management Organisation – was convened to improve success. Based on the expert advice, the nesting structure has been designed in a way that replicates the best conditions for nesting and factors in conditions such as aspect, the amount of sunshine and shelter, and the size of the nesting shelves within. Measures have also been taken to protect the nesting kittiwakes from predators – such as predator-proof fencing at the bottom to protect against mammals like foxes and an overhanging roof to protect against aerial predators. While kittiwakes are known to be tolerant of human activity, the artificial nests are sited well away from the town and active port at the outer harbour to minimise interaction with human activity and property. The construction of the nesting structure would not have been possible without invaluable support from Associated British Ports, Port of Lowestoft, on whose land the ‘hotel’ is built and J.Murphy & Sons who carried out the construction. The environment is important to both Vattenfall and ScottishPower Renewables and this development will help to compensate for the potential impacts on breeding black-legged kittiwakes in North Yorkshire by ensuring they have a safe nesting area. Separate to the nesting requirement, Vattenfall is also looking to support and work closely with the Lowestoft Kittiwake Partnership and has made a £50,000 a year funding commitment for five years. This will help the Partnership to engage with and provide advice and support for local business and residents living alongside nesting kittiwakes, as well as money for cleaning up after kittiwakes, installing safe preventative measures to protect buildings, and creating alternative nesting sites where kittiwakes won’t come into conflict with people in Lowestoft. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Plans revealed for Oldham's Old Library restoration

Plans revealed for Oldham’s Old Library restoration

Plans have been submitted for the second phase to restore Oldham’s Old Library. Digital modelling from the architect shows a modern interior that opens the building back up to the public, makes use of the space and preserves many of its original features. “This building has been special to many hundreds and possibly thousands of Oldhamers and it is yet another exciting milestone in its restoration to see the architects’ drawings as part of the planning submission. The visuals show a building that retains features of a hugely important part of our history along with providing a modern, useful and sustainable place for everyone in the town to make good use of,” said Council Leader Cllr Amanda Chadderton. “This restoration goes way beyond the fondness many of us have for the Old Library and it’s a vital part of our Oldham Town Centre regeneration – we’re creating a town centre for the future where people will want to live, work, visit and socialise. The way in which the project has been done is key too – local young people have increased access to training and employment, around 80 per cent of the spend on the project has been with local businesses, and volunteering and other initiatives have been a feature.” The grade II listed building will be home to meetings rooms, a gallery, and a theatre, as well the Council chamber – all while sensitively incorporating many of the building’s historic features and being equipped with state-of-the-art technology and energy efficient systems. “We are delighted to be working on this fabulous restoration project for Oldham Council. We recognise the importance of the Old Library building to the local community and understand that it has a special place in the hearts of many local residents,” commented Dominic Williams, Director at Ellis Williams Architects. “With that in mind, the newly refurbished building will celebrate Oldham’s cultural heritage whilst providing a range of exciting new community facilities including theatre workshops, meeting rooms, gallery and democratic function spaces arranged around the original Victorian atrium space with historic displays. “As well as celebrating the building’s Victorian past, the scheme also looks positively to the future with new digital infrastructure and low energy systems providing long-term sustainability for this important community asset.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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HelloParks expands in the southern gateway of the Hungarian capital

HelloParks expands in the southern gateway of the Hungarian capital

HelloParks, founded just over two years ago as a member of Futureal Group, is expanding further with the launch of its latest industrial real estate investment in Alsónémedi, where the company plans to build a 60,000 sqm hall in accordance with the highest sustainability standards. The successful completion of the land transaction was achieved with the assistance of the consultancy firm Grifton Property. HelloParks, having three modern megaparks in Fót, Maglód and Páty under construction, will be present in the vicinity of the fourth key transport hub around Budapest by the project in Alsónémedi. As a result of the investment, HelloParks is working on the development of more than 1 million sqm of warehouse and industrial space. HelloParks, the Hungarian industrial developer company that creates sustainable megaparks, is launching another project in the southern submarket of Budapest. The construction will soon start on a 135,000 sqm site in Alsónémedi, close to the junction of the M0 and M5 motorways and BILK (Budapest Intermodal Logistics Centre) container terminal. The Big Box type building, expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2024, will be the company’s largest project to date with a total of 60 000 sqm of flexible space to serve tenants’ demands. The development will bring HelloParks’ industrial real estates to another key location after Fót, Maglód and Páty, giving the company full coverage of the Hungarian capital’s surrounding area. Sustainability and energy efficiency are a priority in HelloParks’ investments. To this end, the new building will be built according to the strictest criteria of the New Construction category of BREEAM sustainability standard to achieve the Outstanding rating and to the EU Taxonomy requirements, as will all the company’s new halls. In Hungary, HelloParks is currently the only developer to build industrial buildings in line with these requirements. The hall will be equipped with a modern building management system (BMS) that tenants can have access to, using the company’s own proprietary application. The mobile app will allow them to monitor energy and utility consumption and adjust heating, ventilation and lighting settings in their rented areas. “There is significant demand for our environmentally friendly, energy-efficient and smart industrial buildings. This is one of the reasons why we are now starting development in the southern submarket of Budapest, following Fót, Maglód and Páty, and are now present in all important locations around the Hungarian capital. We make great effort to meet market demand that is why we are currently developing industrial real estates at a fast pace in all our locations” – said Rudolf Nemes, CEO of HelloParks. The Hungarian-owned industrial real estate developer started major construction works in 2021 on three sites where around 140,000 sqm of industrial building has already been completed. The company is currently working on nearly 130,000 sqm of warehouses which will be expanded by a further 60,000 sqm when construction of the planned hall in Alsónémedi starts. HelloParks’ first two buildings in Maglód and Fót – MG1 and FT1 – were 100% occupied with tenants in record time last year. Since then, the second phase in Maglod, MG3, has also received its occupancy permit, while two more buildings in Fót, FT6 and FT2, are due to be handed over soon. The completion of the first warehouse, PT1, which is being built in HelloParks Páty, will also be completed this year. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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Top 5 Considerations For Commercial Staircases

Top 5 Considerations For Commercial Staircases

Are you in the market for a new commercial staircase? If so, then this article is for you. From design considerations to safety features, there are many things to prioritize when selecting the perfect stairway for your business working space. This article will cover five key factors you should consider before making that crucial decision. Staircases serve an essential purpose and can significantly impact any building’s overall aesthetic. But they also must meet strict regulations and codes of practice if they’re going to be safe and functional. According to research published in the American Journal of Emergency Medicine, there are over a million yearly stair-related injuries in the United States. That’s all the more reason why you must consider each aspect carefully when choosing one. In addition to practicality, you may want to consider how well your selected stairs will fit with the rest of your decorating scheme. It doesn’t matter what type of industry or sector you work in—finding the right staircase is always a challenge. By applying these five considerations, you’ll be able to ensure that yours meets all your needs while still pleasing everyone with its appearance. So, go ahead and explore what goes into creating the ideal commercial staircase. 1.      Building regulations It’s time to delve into the specifics of building regulations. It is essential to abide by applicable laws and rules when constructing a staircase—not only for your protection but also for those who will use the structure in the future. Here are five key points to be aware of: By considering these factors at the outset, you’ll have fewer hurdles later on down the line and feel more confident about your project. Onward then to considering design and layout. 2.      Design and layout The design is an integral part of any project that should not be overlooked. Depending on the method, it can significantly impact convenience and safety. An emerging trend to consider is using commercial concrete stairs, as this type ensures quality and aesthetics from the get-go.  Here are three key considerations to keep in mind: You’ll create a space that meets everyone’s needs without compromising security or aesthetics by considering these elements during the planning phase. Now onto discussing durability and maintenance. 3.      Durability and maintenance When it comes to ensuring a commercial staircase’s longevity, you must consider several factors. Materials play an important role in durability; opting for higher-quality materials will ensure your staircase is up to regular use and lasts longer. Additionally, routine maintenance is vital—this includes regularly checking for wear and tear and ensuring all safety measures, such as hand railings, remain secure and functional. At the same time, it’s worth considering how to make life easier when maintaining your stairs. Investing in non-slip surfaces or low-maintenance finishes could prove beneficial down the line. Safety should always come first, so the next consideration will focus on various safety factors. 4.      Safety factors It’s essential to ensure all safety features are up to code in terms of design and installation. It includes such elements as proper handrail height, secure treads, slip-resistant surfaces, lighting systems that provide adequate visibility at night or during periods of low light, and any other relevant considerations for your particular staircase. Hiring a professional inspector to check the quality before signing off on any project is always worth it. Beyond this, consider additional measures such as motion sensors or audible alerts, which can help alert people using the stairs to potential hazards. Professionals with experience in commercial staircases should install these tools to assess the environment and adequately create an effective solution. With these precautions taken care of, it’s time to move on to discussing cost and budgeting considerations for installing a commercial staircase. 5.      Cost and budgeting Regarding investment, staircases are an invaluable asset that can add value and aesthetic appeal to any commercial space. As such, careful consideration must be taken when budgeting for a staircase project. A comprehensive cost breakdown should include the materials needed, labour costs, inspection fees, and installation expenses. In addition, you may also want to factor in potential maintenance or repair needs throughout its lifespan as well as any additional safety measures which could become necessary over time. Ultimately, investing in quality materials and taking all possible precautions during design and construction will help ensure your staircase stands the test of time while providing safe passage for those who use it. Conclusion As you consider the construction of a commercial staircase, there are many details to ponder. Each element is essential for successfully constructing your new staircase, from building regulations and design layout to durability and safety considerations. Ultimately, cost and budgeting will be critical factors in determining which staircase works best for your business. By considering all these elements with diligence and care, you can create a beautiful, safe stairway that fits within your allotted budget. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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The 4 most fascinating palaces in the world

The 4 most fascinating palaces in the world

Palaces, which used to serve as homes for kings and queens, were constructed not only as royal abodes but also as a means to showcase power and prestige. Consequently, monarchs and emperors engaged in a competition to outdo each other by constructing extravagant summer homes and accumulating exquisite art collections to adorn their grand halls and regal apartments. Apart from the impressive architecture and artworks, the former royal dwellings also boast captivating gardens and grounds adorned with magnificent fountains and blooming flower beds. These stunning palaces are now among the most frequented tourist attractions and museums in the vicinity, given their significant artistic, cultural, and historical worth. These palaces are amongst the most expensive in the world. Only billionaires can afford to buy such estates. Not even a jackpot winner can buy one of them. However, considering the chances of winning the jackpot and the reward size, big prize winners can still afford less castles like the £600 million St James’s Palace. Now that you understand just how valuable these old palaces are, let’s get this list started. Louvre Palace, France (£37.5 Billion) The Louvre Palace, located in Paris, France, is a historical monument and museum that dates back to the 12th century. It was originally built as a fortress but was later expanded and renovated by various monarchs over the centuries. Today, the Louvre is one of the world’s largest museums, containing over 38,000 objects and artefacts from all over the world, including the iconic Mona Lisa painting. The palace also houses several administrative offices and academic institutions. The Louvre Palace is estimated to be worth around £37.5 billion, according to a report by Forbes in 2019. However, similar to the Palace of Versailles, its true value is difficult to measure due to its immense historical and cultural significance. Palace of Versailles (£42 billion) Versailles, initially a modest hunting lodge, underwent a remarkable transformation under Louis XIV to become one of the largest and most splendid palaces in history. The Sun King embellished and expanded the palace before eventually making it his royal abode and administrative centre. Although many of its most treasured works of art and possessions were transferred to the Louvre after the French Revolution, extensive refurbishment and reconstruction work has restored the palace to its former magnificence. Today, the Palace of Versailles is one of France’s most sought-after tourist destinations. Millions of visitors flock every year to see the stunning Royal Apartments, the dazzling Hall of Mirrors, and the grand Royal Opera. Of course, the palace’s spectacular gardens, complete with impressive fountains and flower beds, are also a must-see. Given the historical, cultural, and architectural significance of the palace, which has witnessed many world-changing events, the Palace of Versailles stands as one of the country’s most vital treasures. Winter Palace (£5.67 billion) The Winter Palace, formerly the residence of the Russian Tsars, is now home to the world-renowned Hermitage museum. Constructed in the Elizabethan Baroque style, the palace’s seemingly boundless green and white walls are reputed to encompass over 1,500 intricately designed and ornamented rooms. The palace’s magnificence, along with the exceptional art and architecture on display, serves as a testament to the might and power of Imperial Russia. However, in 1917, the monarchy and empire came to an end when the Winter Palace was seized during one of the critical moments of the Russian Revolution. Today, the palace and museum are among the most significant attractions in Saint Petersburg, showcasing the city’s historical and cultural heritage. Forbidden City (£58.4 Billion) Since its inception in 1406, the Forbidden City has been a symbol of dominance and significance in central Beijing and throughout China. As the imperial residence of the Ming and Qing dynasties’ emperors, this grandiose palace served as the seat of power for their vast empires. The palace complex spans a substantial area, encompassed by a high wall and a broad moat, and contains approximately 980 distinctive buildings. These architectural marvels exemplify remarkable Chinese palace design, with the Hall of Supreme Harmony and the Palace of Heavenly Purity being only two of the many must-see attractions. Following the abdication of the last emperor in 1925, the Palace Museum maintained the Forbidden City, which exhibits an incredible range of artwork and artefacts for visitors to appreciate. A culmination of over two thousand years of Chinese and East Asian art and architecture, the Forbidden City is a crucial and awe-inspiring destination in Beijing and throughout China. FAQs Which is the richest palace in the world? Reportedly, the 775-bedroom Buckingham Palace is the most expensive property in the world. It is official residence of the British Royal Family since 1837 has an estimated value of nearly £1.4 billion as per a May 2022 Bloomberg report. What is the smallest palace in the world? Built in 1631 as a fashionable mansion for a wealthy London silk merchant, Kew Palace is the smallest among all the royal palaces. Where is the oldest palace in the world? With almost 1,000 years of history, Windsor Castle has been the family home of British monarchs and is currently the oldest inhabited castle in the world. As an official royals’ residence, the castle is still a functioning royal palace and houses around 150 people. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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10 Hazardous Chemicals and Substances That Are All Too Common on Construction Sites

10 Hazardous Chemicals and Substances That Are All Too Common on Construction Sites

Construction workers are constantly at risk of developing lung-based illnesses from chemicals and contact-based alignments from toxic substances. Workers can prevent the detrimental effects of inhaling or touching hazardous chemicals via training and quality equipment. 10 Hazardous Substances Found on Construction Sites If you were injured from the following toxic chemicals and substances, contact an occupational hazard attorney in your local area. They can help you get the compensation you deserve. 1. Asbestos Asbestos is often used as insulation or fire retardant in older construction sites and buildings. It can cause respiratory issues if airborne particles are inhaled. Workers should wear disposable coveralls, rubber boots, eyewear, gloves, and respirators when around asbestos.  2. Benzene Common in industrial sites, benzene is a dangerous chemical used in the production of plastic, rubber, or solvents. Inhaling the particles can lead to skin, eye, and respiratory irritation. In cases of prolonged exposure, benzene can cause blood cancers and damage to the nervous system. 3. Lead Paint Lead poisoning poses a serious risk, especially to children and pregnant women. It can be found in old paint and construction materials in older buildings. While the US banned lead paint in 1978, it’s still found in nearly 29 million housing units, posing a significant health risk. 4. Liquid Freon Freon is used in air conditioning and refrigeration, typically in the form of pressurized gas. It can be very dangerous if inhaled, as it cuts off oxygen to the skin and cells. Since freon is a tasteless, odorless gas, construction workers may not know that they’re being exposed to it, 5. Acid and Bases Strong acids and bases, such as sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, and lye, are often used in the construction and renovation of buildings. Contact with skin or inhalation of vapors can be very harmful. The severity of your symptoms will depend on what acid or base you’re exposed to. 6. Gaseous Mercury This heavy metal is a frequent occurrence in old construction sites and can cause neurological problems if inhaled. Mercury is so dangerous that it can trigger kidney, liver, and heart deterioration, cancers, and pulmonary fibrosis. Permanent respiratory disability is also very common. 7. Silicon Dioxide (Silica) Silica is a common mineral found in concrete and mortar and causes silicosis and respiratory illness if inhaled. Crystalline silica is a common construction-related disease that results from inhaling silica dust. Eventually, this dust causes inflammation, scarring, and permanent damage. 8. Insect Pesticides These chemicals, used in the extermination or control of pests, can cause a range of illnesses if inhaled or ingested. While a worker may not be exposed to pesticides directly (as in, they won’t be present when pesticides are being administered), pesticide residue can still cause damage. 9. Chemical Solvents Solvents such as paint thinners, acetone, and more can be hazardous if inhaled in large doses. If a worker is experiencing stomach pain, headaches, dizziness, nausea, loss of coordination, or irritation, they’ve been overexposed to solvents. They must be removed from the site right away.  10. Toxic Dust Dust is the most common hazard on a construction site and can contain nearly every chemical or substance mentioned on this list. Dust can aggravate asthma symptoms when particles are inhaled and can also cause skin irritations. Drywall and wood are common sources of dust. In Conclusion… Staying safe on a job site is paramount, so it is important to be aware of these hazardous substances and ensure that proper safety protocols are in place and being followed. All of these chemicals could cause serious, irreversible damage if workplace safety isn’t taken seriously.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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