Muse, the nationwide placemaker, has appointed Elliot Sellars as Project Director in the Midlands. Elliot brings over 20 years’ regeneration experience to Muse, having previously held senior roles at St Modwen Developments and Birmingham City University. With experience delivering nationally significant regeneration and working in partnership with the public and
Midlands contractor, G F Tomlinson, has announced the Aortic Dissection Charitable Trust as its chosen charity for 2024. Aortic Dissection is a serious heart condition caused by a partial tear in the wall of the aorta, which prevents blood supply and can lead to the rupturing of organs. Seventy people
Primary school pupils from Bilsthorpe Flying High Academy (BFHA) in Newark have recently helped plant three trees at Harron Homes’ nearby development, Bilsthorpe Chase. These trees are the first to be planted at the development, which is set to become home to over 1,200 native trees in the next 2-3
Ian Threadgold, Caddick Construction’s North West Regional Managing Director, is set to retire in early 2024, bringing to a close a lengthy career that culminated in the establishment of Caddick’s North West regional business. Ian’s retirement follows Caddick Construction’s most successful year to-date in the North West region with a
A new nationwide study of tradespeople has revealed that one in 10 are thinking about leaving the industry in the next 12 months following a difficult year that has seen them lose business and struggle to make ends meet. The research, by leading designer radiator specialists BestHeating, highlights the tumultuous
In the face of a challenging year for many in the kitchen manufacturing industry, the UK’s number one furniture supplier to independent kitchen retailers, Omega invested in their future throughout 2023 with a comprehensive new development programme including, the introduction of new brand Novus, new door ranges, on trend paint
Today Glenigan, one of the construction industry’s leading insight and intelligence experts, releases the January 2024 edition of its Construction Review. The Review focuses on the three months to the end of December 2023, covering all major (>£100m) and underlying (<£100m) projects, with all underlying figures seasonally adjusted. It’s a
After a long and successful career in the construction industry, and with more than 20 years at the helm of Clegg Construction as managing director, Simon Blackburn has announced his retirement. Michael Sims has stepped up to become MD from his previous role as commercial director, with Darren Chapman and
Ever wondered what makes a custom home different from a regular one? It’s not just about fancy designs or bigger spaces. It’s about creating a space that’s uniquely yours, tailored to your tastes and needs. In this article, we’ll explore these differences in detail. From design to construction, we’ll uncover
Hidden amidst the glamour, Las Vegas has been quietly making strides in sustainable building practices, proving that being eco-friendly can coexist with neon-lit extravagance. So, you may be wondering, “How in the world can Vegas be sustainable?” Aren’t they constantly lighting up the Strip like a giant birthday cake? Well,
Muse, the nationwide placemaker, has appointed Elliot Sellars as Project Director in the Midlands. Elliot brings over 20 years’ regeneration experience to Muse, having previously held senior roles at St Modwen Developments and Birmingham City University. With experience delivering nationally significant regeneration and working in partnership with the public and private sector, Elliot will support the delivery of Muse’s regional pipeline. This includes the £3.2bn Arden Cross regeneration scheme, as well as City Centre West in Wolverhampton, and Mell Square in Solihull. Elliot’s appointment follows a quartet of new hires in Muse’s Midlands team at the end of 2023, along with a new Birmingham city centre office. Maggie Grogan, Managing Director at Muse – Midlands, said: “Elliot is an experienced and dedicated regeneration specialist who is set to play a key role supporting our pipeline and regional growth. Elliot understands the region and will help shape an important year for our business, in which we are focussed on delivery alongside our partners.” Elliot Sellars, Midlands Project Director at Muse, said: “I am delighted to be joining Muse and supporting the business’ growth in the Midlands. Muse has an exciting and ambitious portfolio which will be transformative for the region. I’m looking forward to working with the expert team, to create partnership led place-changing regeneration.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Midlands contractor, G F Tomlinson, has announced the Aortic Dissection Charitable Trust as its chosen charity for 2024. Aortic Dissection is a serious heart condition caused by a partial tear in the wall of the aorta, which prevents blood supply and can lead to the rupturing of organs. Seventy people are diagnosed with the condition each week in the UK and Ireland with only an average survival rate of 50%. The Aortic Dissection Charitable Trust aims to help raise awareness and funding for research into early detection, supporting prevention, treatment, and cures for the condition, which if diagnosed and treated in time, has an 80% survival rate. Having received a letter from Pauline Latham, OBE MP who has been writing to local businesses in Derbyshire asking them to support the charity following the sad loss of her son, Ben, in 2018 from the condition, Group Chairman, Andy Sewards was keen to pledge G F Tomlinson’s support as their chosen charity for 2024. As part of its commitment to the charity, the contractor will be hosting a variety of fundraising events from January through to December next year to help towards prevention and treatment of the condition, in the hope that it will save many more lives. Andy Sewards said: “We are honoured to be supporting such a worthy charity for 2024. Aortic Dissection is a serious condition and it’s vital that we work together to raise awareness for its diagnosis and treatment, to prevent unnecessary fatalities. “In line with our social value ethics and support for local charities, we will be planning multiple fundraising events throughout 2024 to ensure that we help the trust continue with its incredible work for next year and beyond.” Pauline Latham said: “I am so grateful to G F Tomlinson for their wholehearted support for Aortic Dissection. Many people don’t know anything about it until their family is devastated by it. The more we can do to prevent unnecessary deaths the better. We need better outcomes for patients and G F Tomlinson’s support will really help the charity’s ability to fund research into this little-known condition. I want to thank them for all they will be doing over this year.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Primary school pupils from Bilsthorpe Flying High Academy (BFHA) in Newark have recently helped plant three trees at Harron Homes’ nearby development, Bilsthorpe Chase. These trees are the first to be planted at the development, which is set to become home to over 1,200 native trees in the next 2-3 years. The official planting ceremony saw three BFHA pupils assist both Carrier Landscapers and Harron Home’s Bilsthorpe Chase Site Team in planting three native oaks on the development’s village green. Perhaps the most familiar of British species, the oaks, once grown, will complement Bilsthorpe Chase’s peaceful rural feel while adding touches of greenery to the picturesque development. The pupils of Bilsthorpe Flying High Academy were ready with spades and hi-vis to help plant the trees. Despite the poor weather conditions on the day, they proved themselves intrepid and handy gardeners, patiently waiting out the winter rain before venturing outdoors during a spot of sunshine to get the job done. The Bilsthorpe Chase site team, led by Site Manager Kevin Adlington, was on hand to guide the pupils and help them plant the trees. Assisting them were Carrier Landscapers’ David Hazeldine, Ben Grabham, and Joe Carnell, who provided their own expertise to ensure the pupils planted the trees safely and securely. Once all the trees have been planted, they will contribute a great deal towards reducing the levels of air pollution and making the local environment more biodiverse. Developments like Bilsthorpe Chase take these well-known benefits of rural living and combine them with the convenience and comforts of a more modern lifestyle. Built to the highest specification and designed to be both stylish and comfortable, the variety of two, three, four and five bedroom homes are perfect for couples, families, and individuals alike. With Sherwood Pines only a few miles away, and myriad scenic walks and cycling routes surrounding the development, Bilsthorpe Chase provides its residents with the best of both worlds. Claire Gibbins, Sales Manager for Harron Homes North Midlands, said: “At Harron Homes we know that even small touches of greenery can transform the look and feel of a development. But woodland areas and forests are also vital in improving the biodiversity of the areas we build in. This planting marks the first step in what is set to be a really great change for the development. “It was great to see the next generation get involved with nature in this way. The kids were a real help on the day, and we hope they will be proud to see the oaks grow and blossom in the coming years.” Samantha Leek, Headteacher at BFHA, said: “It was wonderful to give the pupils an opportunity to get some hands-on experience planting trees. Through our curriculum we aim to provide our pupils with a wealth of knowledge on the science and history of the planet and its environment. Being able to couple their learning with practical experience such as this provides a brilliant opportunity for enhancing their education, and it’s a key part of what we aim to do at BFHA. Of course, more importantly, it was a lot of fun too!” Homes at Bilsthorpe Chase start at £318,995 and the development can be found at Kirklington Road, Bilsthorpe, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG22 8SH. For more information on Bilsthorpe Chase please visit: https://www.harronhomes.com/find-a-home/nottinghamshire/bilsthorpe-chase/. For more information on Bilsthorpe Flying High Academy please visit: https://www.bilsthorpeflyinghighacademy.co.uk/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Ian Threadgold, Caddick Construction’s North West Regional Managing Director, is set to retire in early 2024, bringing to a close a lengthy career that culminated in the establishment of Caddick’s North West regional business. Ian’s retirement follows Caddick Construction’s most successful year to-date in the North West region with a turnover in excess of £180m, and a strong forward order that provides security for the Caddick NW team. Beginning his career as a Trainee Site Engineer at the age of 16, Ian went on to work for a variety of national and regional contracting organisations progressing from Engineer to Project Manager, Contracts Manager and then onto Construction Director. Ian launched Caddick Construction in the North West in 2014, and has since grown the business to become one of the leading contractors in the region with a 130-strong team of people operating out of offices in Warrington and Kendal. Building the business from scratch, Ian’s leadership of Caddick Construction in the North West has seen the business garner a strong industry reputation as a trusted and reliable contractor working across a variety of sectors. As a consequence, the business has regularly secured repeat business with blue chip clients such as Bruntwood, St. Modwens, Chancerygate, Network Space, Redsun, Quorum, United Healthcare Development Ltd and Guinness Trust as well as through frameworks such as ICN and Torus. Caddick Construction North West has also developed a strong social value strategy supporting many local charities, as well as investing in the future workforce, which currently employs 18 trainees across the region in various different disciplines. Ian commented: “I am very proud of everything we’ve achieved since Caddick Construction was launched, we’ve delivered some fantastic projects in a variety of sectors including the likes of Base Building at Manchester Science Park, South Lakes Porsche Centre at Carnforth and Arden Square at Crewe. We have also developed a very strong presence in the residential market. “By far the highlight for me though is the team of talented people I leave behind at Caddick, many of whom I have worked with throughout their entire careers. Our business has rightly earned a strong reputation as a trusted construction partner, and the strength of our client relationships is due to our consistent delivery of high quality projects. None of that would be possible without the skill, experience, and commitment of our team. When I retired I wanted to leave behind a great business as a leading regional contractor in a strong financial position for future success and I believe I have achieved this.” Paul Dodsworth, Caddick Construction Group’s Managing Director, added: “What Ian has achieved for Caddick Construction in the North West over the last nine years is nothing short of outstanding. Caddick’s reputation in the North West has been hard earned by Ian and his team through dedication and a commitment to delivering impeccable standards. We wish Ian well in his retirement and promise to build on his legacy.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A new nationwide study of tradespeople has revealed that one in 10 are thinking about leaving the industry in the next 12 months following a difficult year that has seen them lose business and struggle to make ends meet. The research, by leading designer radiator specialists BestHeating, highlights the tumultuous challenges that the trade industry currently faces and the fear that many have heading into 2024. Of the 2,000 polled, 85% stated that they were pessimistic about the future of their trade, with many considering a change in career due to the uncertainty in their current job and the extra financial pressures of being self-employed. Further highlighting the serious worry within the industry, 16% are thinking of taking a second job within another trade to improve their economic situation, and an additional one in seven are looking into a second job outside of the industry, with roles such as delivery drivers, warehouse assistants and restaurant workers all mentioned. Customer concerns Whilst inflation is falling, it still sits at 4.6%, and tradespeople have felt the burden of this with more than one in three (35%) heavily discounting prices for customers so that they can keep their work. Bristol is the city that has done this most, where a whopping 64% of workers have cut their prices to appease clients. The research shows that homeowners across the nation are trying to cut costs wherever they can, and one in six tradespeople has noticed that they have been called to fix botched jobs that customers attempted themselves before calling in help. To add to their worries, more than two in five (44%) are concerned about the rising cost of materials and believe their finances will take a major hit in the coming months. Tradespeople with more experience fear this most, with 61% of those 55 and older stating this, compared to just 37% of those aged between 18 and 24. Throughout 2023 one in five have experienced a longer delay in sourcing materials, which has led to them losing work or having to cut the quote for a job even further to appease customers. Marek Kokocki, buying director of BestHeating commented: “It’s worrying to see that so many tradespeople across the UK have major concerns about the industry and are thinking of taking a second job or even changing roles altogether. It’s important that the nation continues to support them where possible and hire the correct person for important tasks rather than attempt a botched job that puts their home at risk. Businesses that supply materials or products can also play their part by providing better schemes that entice tradespeople to purchase their product with discounts as this has major benefits for their own organisation too.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
In the face of a challenging year for many in the kitchen manufacturing industry, the UK’s number one furniture supplier to independent kitchen retailers, Omega invested in their future throughout 2023 with a comprehensive new development programme including, the introduction of new brand Novus, new door ranges, on trend paint colours and the launch of a custom panel service. Omega CEO Simon Barber said, “2023 was an exciting year for Omega with the launch of Novus, many great new product developments across our brands and a range of initiatives designed to support our retail and contracts partners. As a business we continually look to the future believing investment in product, technology and people is what drives us forward. The start of 2024 will see the completion of a £1 million project to improve our sales processes to benefit both our contracts and retail customers.” Once complete the investment will deliver an even more efficient service solution for all customers and a bespoke commercial system for contracts partners. Novus is the modern leading-edge solution in handless kitchens characterised by a clean, and sleek aesthetic, manufactured in the UK. The minimalist kitchen was designed to compete with the handless kitchen trends established by European suppliers and offer customers flexibility and choice whilst ensuring ease of installation and guaranteed delivery. Speaking about the launch Omega Retail Sales Director James Bishton says, “It’s exceeded the expectations of both our new and existing customers who are looking for a UK sourced option for contemporary kitchens. Without exception all prospective customers visiting Omega for the first time to see the brand, showroom and facility wish they’d done so sooner.” Omega have expanded on the launch phase of Novus with the introduction of Custom Size Panels across all of their brands, allowing customers to order the specific panel requirement to suit any design giving them greater flexibility, reduced waste on site and lower costs. James Bishton continues, “Novus has helped us capture new customer sales and seize market share since its launch in Summer 2023. Our new partners have also successfully engaged with our existing painted shaker kitchens, to widen their own offers aligned to core UK market trends.” Commenting on the impact of Novus on the Contracts Market Omega Contracts Sales and Operations Director Katy Snow said, “Since the launch in May 2023, Novus has generated great interest from our contract developers on both housing developments and Major Project apartment schemes, including Berkeley Eight Gardens Development the first to showcase Novus in volume. Novus differentiates our contract customers from other developers in their area which demonstrates a value-added proposition to potential home buyers. Omega’s robust supply chain, large stock holding and excellent design and manufacturing capabilities in the business has also supported several new customers from site takeovers delivering kitchens on very short lead times.” In support of their customers, in October 2022, Omega pledged that their prices would remain fixed for 16 months providing partners with much needed price stability during a time of economic uncertainty and challenges. The latest announcement sees that price freeze extended until 5th April 2024. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Today Glenigan, one of the construction industry’s leading insight and intelligence experts, releases the January 2024 edition of its Construction Review. The Review focuses on the three months to the end of December 2023, covering all major (>£100m) and underlying (<£100m) projects, with all underlying figures seasonally adjusted. It’s a report which provides a detailed and comprehensive analysis of year-on-year construction data, giving built environment professionals a unique insight into sector performance over the last 12 months. The January Review’s central finding is that starts continued to decline during Q.4 2023, primarily the result of the immense economic pressure currently being placed on UK construction. Overall, project-starts fell by a fifth (19%) compared to the preceding three months’ performance. Furthermore, figures stood a third (-31%) lower than the same period in 2022. This fall was largely driven by a significant drop in major project performance, plummeting 17% against the preceding three-month period, with starts being slashed almost in half (-44%) compared with last year. Allowing for the expected Christmas wind-down, encouragingly, underlying (<£100m) work starting on-site stood 4% up on the preceding three months on a seasonally adjusted basis. Despite this modest uptick on Q.3, however, underlying starts remained a fifth lower than 2022 levels. This general drop in activity was also reflected in main contract awards, which tumbled 11% against the previous quarter, and 34% against 2022 levels. Similarly, detailed planning approvals were down too against the preceding three months (-23%), finishing 4% behind the same time last year. Commenting on the January Review, Glenigan’s Economic Director, Allan Wilen says, “Poor construction performance in Q.4 can be attributed to persistent, external economic pressures which are weighing the industry down. High interest rates, declining business investment, as well as the expected Christmas slowdown led to pauses and delays in project-starts as we came to the end of 2023. “The softening in both main contract awards and planning approvals aligns with the general, downward pattern of UK economic activity and a febrile political environment, less than a year away from a General Election. However, it’s not all doom and gloom. A rise in private housing projects is a positive sign, suggesting developers’ expectations for the housing market in 2024 may be on the up.” The sector-specific and regional index, which measures underlying project performance, saw starts softening across the board. However, the residential vertical picked up, complemented by some encouraging upticks in a handful of UK regions. Sector Analysis – Residential Residential starts increased 14% during Q.4 2023, but stood 8% lower than a year ago. Private housing was the major contributor to residential-starts improvement, rising 19% in Q.4, but weakening by 9% on 2022 levels. Social housing faltered (-2%) against the preceding quarter, with performance also dipping by 5% compared to last year. Sector Analysis – Non-Residential Non-residential performance was mixed during Q.4 2023. Community and amenity was the stand-out vertical with underlying starts rising 6% against the previous quarter to stand 28% higher than a year ago. Retail also experienced a strong period in Q.4, growing 20% against the preceding three months, up 6% against the previous year. Hotel and leisure starts were up a whopping 119% in Q.4 2023 but fell back 26% on 2022 levels. Performance was poor across the remaining verticals, with industrial and office projects both freefalling 48% compared with the year before. Both verticals also declined against the preceding three-month period, dropping 20% and 17%, respectively. Education also fared poorly with starts dropping 24% during Q.4 and 22% against last year’s results. It was a similar story for health starts which fell back 37% against the preceding three months to finish 41% lower than 2022 levels. Civil starts slipped back 4% in Q.4 and 26% on 2022 levels. This overall decline was largely due to a drop in infrastructure activity, with starts tumbling 6% against the preceding quarter to stand 30% down on last year. On the other hand, utilities starts remained flat against the preceding quarter and were 17% down on the previous year. Regional Performance Growth was inconsistent regionally. London was the strongest performing part of the UK, with project-starts increasing 29% during Q.4, despite falling back 11% on the same period in 2022. The South East also had a good fourth quarter, with starts rising 16%, but declining 29% on 2022. Starts in the West Midlands (+11%) and North East (+31%) also advanced on the preceding quarter to stand 16% and 14% up, respectively, against the previous year. Some areas of the UK performed particularly poorly, including Northern Ireland and the East Midlands where the value of projects fell 39% and 51% on a year ago. This was also the case in Wales, Yorkshire & the Humber, and the North West which also suffered falls in project-starts against 2022 levels. To find out more about Glenigan and its construction intelligence services click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
After a long and successful career in the construction industry, and with more than 20 years at the helm of Clegg Construction as managing director, Simon Blackburn has announced his retirement. Michael Sims has stepped up to become MD from his previous role as commercial director, with Darren Chapman and Ross Crowcroft continuing in their roles as operations director and pre-construction director respectively. The change in leadership comes as Clegg Construction has secured its strongest carry-forward order book, with more than £82m secured turnover for 2024. Simon, who joined Clegg Construction in 2002, before becoming MD two years later, will remain as a group director until the end of May 2024 in support of the new generation of leadership which will take the business forward into 2024 and beyond. “Over the last 20 years I’ve been extremely proud to lead a business that has delivered in excess of 7,000 student beds, 1,500 apartments, 1,000 care home beds, 750 hotel bedrooms and more than one million square feet of industrial schemes,” he said. “Projects have included new builds, refurbishments, re-cladding & extensions, providing education facilities for primary, secondary, further, higher and vocational training, advanced manufacturing centres, research and development labs, offices, distribution, storage, libraries, leisure facilities, hotels, residential developments, community centres, places of worship, sports facilities, retail buildings, archives, courtrooms, the odd glulam replacement here and there, a raft ride, a cable-ski and even a crematorium. “I am pleased to be handing over the business with a record level of carry forward workload and I congratulate Michael on his new role as managing director and wish him, and the other directors, all the best for the future.” Michael Sims, who joined Clegg Construction in spring 2021, bringing to the business over 20 years of industry experience with key expertise in commercial and risk management and contract negotiation, paid tribute to his predecessor. “I am proud to have been appointed to follow in his footsteps and take up the reins as the new MD for a company that is so well regarded and has such a long history. “Alongside the other directors, I look forward to building on Simon Blackburn’s legacy and continuing to provide design and construction excellence to our clients across the country.” Clegg Construction is a Midlands, Yorkshire and East Anglia-based construction firm specialising in the delivery of public and private sector projects. Part of Clegg Group and the sister company to Clegg Food Projects, Clegg Construction has been trading since the 1930s. Its headquarters is in the Lace Market, Nottingham. For more information visit www.cleggconstruction.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Ever wondered what makes a custom home different from a regular one? It’s not just about fancy designs or bigger spaces. It’s about creating a space that’s uniquely yours, tailored to your tastes and needs. In this article, we’ll explore these differences in detail. From design to construction, we’ll uncover what sets these two types of homes apart. Let’s dive into the world of custom versus regular homes and see which might suit you best. Defining a custom home is an exercise of imagination and personal preference. Unlike a typical home, a custom home is born from your unique vision. It starts with a concept that reflects your lifestyle and aesthetic choices. From the architectural design to the selection of materials, every aspect is customized with the help of a custom home builder. This approach allows for innovative solutions to meet your specific needs, whether it’s incorporating sustainable materials, specialized layouts, or advanced home technologies. Essentially, a custom home is your living space showcasing your personal statement, shaped by your desires and crafted precisely. A regular home, often referred to as a production home, is the familiar face in the housing world. These homes are typically built in developments and follow predetermined designs. Think of a neighborhood where the houses have a similar look and feel, like the classic suburban cul-de-sac. Here, customization is more about selecting finishes rather than altering layouts or architectural features. Think of a picturesque suburban street, where each home reflects a piece of the larger community puzzle, offering a sense of familiarity and comfort. Regular homes strike a balance between affordability and efficiency, making them a popular choice for many homeowners. Exploring the distinctions between custom and regular homes reveals a range of differences. Let’s examine these variations in detail: Custom homes are defined by their ability to adapt to unique lifestyle needs and personal tastes. This might include special features like a custom-built home office, a state-of-the-art kitchen, or an eco-friendly design. Regular homes might offer some choices in finishes or minor layout changes. Generally, they conform to a set of standard designs that prioritize efficiency and broad appeal. The investment in a custom home often includes premium materials and the services of architects, designers, and specialized contractors. This can lead to a significantly higher price point compared to regular homes, which are typically built on a more cost-efficient, large-scale production model. The trade-off is between a higher upfront cost for a unique, personalized home and the cost-effective, standardized approach of regular homes. The timeline for building a custom home can vary greatly, depending on the complexity of the design and the availability of materials and labor. This process often involves more decision-making points, which can extend the timeline. In contrast, regular homes are generally built in a more predictable timeframe, thanks to standardized plans and processes. Materials and construction techniques are selected for their exceptional quality in custom homes. For instance, a custom home might feature hand-scraped hardwood floors, granite countertops, or custom cabinetry, reflecting a commitment to both aesthetics and durability. In contrast, regular homes often use materials like pre-fabricated cabinets and standard-grade flooring. While still reliable, these choices are more about balancing quality with cost-effectiveness, adhering to the practical needs of a broader market. Custom homes, with their unique features and designs, can be more challenging to value and may appeal to a smaller set of potential buyers. However, their uniqueness can also be a selling point. Regular homes, with their standard features and designs, tend to appeal to a broader market. This wider market interest often makes them more straightforward to sell, despite lacking the unique characteristics of a custom home. The decision between a custom and a regular home involves balancing personal expression, financial investment, and practical considerations. Each type caters to different lifestyles and priorities, making the choice a highly personal one. Several factors come into play when deciding between a custom and a regular home. It’s about balancing what you dream your home to be against practical considerations. These factors are crucial in guiding your choice between a custom and a regular home. They help you determine which type best fits your lifestyle, budget, and timeline. Conclusion The choice between a custom home and a regular home boils down to personal preference and practicality. Custom homes are about tailoring every aspect to your unique needs and style, offering uniqueness and quality. Regular homes, meanwhile, bring affordability, quicker build times, and a broad appeal. Ultimately, your decision depends on what you value most in a home—be it individuality or efficiency. Each offers distinct benefits, so consider what aligns best with your lifestyle and goals.
Hidden amidst the glamour, Las Vegas has been quietly making strides in sustainable building practices, proving that being eco-friendly can coexist with neon-lit extravagance. So, you may be wondering, “How in the world can Vegas be sustainable?” Aren’t they constantly lighting up the Strip like a giant birthday cake? Well, let’s lift the curtain and take a peek at how Sin City is embracing green initiatives and transforming its skyline. The Green Strides on the Strip The iconic Las Vegas Strip, often seen as the epicentre of excess, is also home to eco-friendly initiatives. The main water guzzlers in Vegas? Homeowners, not the extravagant hotels and casinos. Thanks to a wastewater treatment system, water used in massive properties eventually finds its way back to Lake Mead, the city’s main water supply. CityCenter, for example, is a $10 billion development that’s not just a cluster of hotels, a casino, and residences. It’s a beacon of green innovation. CityCenter collaborated with manufacturers to design low-flow showerheads, reducing water consumption by a third. Meanwhile, the Mandalay Bay Resort Conference and Convention Center flaunts a rooftop solar array, powering over 20 percent of the hotel and casino. The Palazzo’s Eco-Friendly Triumph In the heart of the Strip stands The Palazzo, not just a sprawling resort and casino but a pioneer in sustainable architecture. This 50-story marvel has earned the prestigious LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, making it the world’s largest green building. The Palazzo boasts more than 3,000 suites, a shopping centre, and a plethora of dining and entertainment options, including some of the best slots games out there. But what makes it truly stand out in the desert landscape are its eco-friendly features. Solar heating for pools, energy-efficient air conditioning systems, waste recycling, and water-saving technologies – The Palazzo has truly rolled the dice on sustainability, and it’s a winning bet. Las Vegas Sands: Setting the Eco-Friendly Trend Las Vegas Sands are behind iconic properties like The Venetian and The Palazzo. In 2007, they were already ahead of the curve, integrating LEED Green Building standards into the construction of The Palazzo. Fast forward to 2010, and Las Vegas Sands launches their ECO360 Sustainability program. The results of the program are nearly 100 million gallons of water saved annually, 55% of daily trash recycled, and over 113 million kWh of energy saved in 2014 alone. Las Vegas’ Ambitious Energy Makeover Sure, the Strip is a dazzling electric wonderland, but the city government has been strategically embracing cutting-edge technologies called digital twins to redefine itself. A digital twin is basically a virtual replica of the entire city, which allows city planners to tweak electricity distribution, optimise traffic flow, and test out ideas in the virtual realm before making changes in the real world. Conclusion The next time you’re strolling down the Strip, take a moment to appreciate the sustainable side of Sin City. Whether it’s The Palazzo’s sustainability or the city’s ambitious digital twin endeavours, there’s more to Vegas than meets the eye. The lights may be bright, but the commitment to sustainability is shining even brighter in this desert haven. After all, in a city where they say, “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas,” it seems like sustainability is here to stay.
