Building Better, the National Housing Federation-backed alliance of housing associations and councils set up to increase the use of modern methods of construction (MMC) in social housing, is hunting for dozens of local, traditional build principal contractors for a new MMC framework. Procurement for Housing (PfH) is working with Building
69 low carbon homes for social rent have now been completed and residents have been welcomed to their new homes on Silk Street in north Manchester. The long-term brownfield site overlooking the Rochdale Canal has been developed and brought back into use by the Council delivering 36 one-bedroom apartments, 12
CLD Physical Security Systems, a Northwest-based business and the leading manufacturer and supplier of rigid mesh fencing and security gates in the UK, has been awarded the EcoVadis silver medal for sustainability, as part of its ongoing green initiatives. CLD is a leading supplier of security fencing in the UK,
A partnership responsible for transforming Newcastle’s West End, is providing the opportunity for local developers and contractors to support an initiative, which is tackling the construction skills shortage. New Tyne West Development Company (NTWDC) – a partnership between Keepmoat, and Newcastle City Council – is hosting open days with The
Letchworth-based company, Willmott Dixon, has been appointed to conduct the £55m redevelopment of Hertfordshire Constabulary’s police headquarters in Welwyn Garden City. Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner David Lloyd has approved the proposals, which had already received planning permission. The redevelopment, in Stanborough, will involve demolishing eleven of the 1960s-era buildings
Sue Corrick of Allegion UK explores the evolution of panic and emergency exit hardware, examining the specification and installation points that decision makers must consider throughout modern application. The swift evacuation of a building and its occupants is critical in an escape or emergency situation. And for decades, escape doors
AluK has made two appointments to the UK Board, with industry heavyweight Paul Booth joining as R&D Director and manufacturing specialist James Schools joining as Finance Director. They are both bringing valuable experience and expertise to AluK, to help the aluminium systems company deliver on its ambitious plans for 2024
A former apprentice, who is now a fully qualified joiner with Yorkshire and Lincolnshire construction firm Hobson & Porter, has been recognised for both the quality of his work, as well as going the extra mile for clients. Aaron Wilson joined Hobson & Porter in 2017 and completed a three-year
Selecting furniture and other poolside features necessitates that you consider functionality, aesthetics, style, comfort, and longevity. The choice of chairs, the tables, the arrangement, and the little decorations can turn your pool area from just a swimming spot into your personal chill zone. The outdoor furniture and features you choose
In today’s fast-paced business world, creating welcoming outdoor areas is more important than ever. This is where innovative commercial shade sails can come in. These stylish additions have completely changed the game in how companies use their outdoor spaces. More than just shields from the sun, these eye-catching structures have
Building Better, the National Housing Federation-backed alliance of housing associations and councils set up to increase the use of modern methods of construction (MMC) in social housing, is hunting for dozens of local, traditional build principal contractors for a new MMC framework. Procurement for Housing (PfH) is working with Building Better to develop the £800m framework which will run over four years. Traditional construction firms in 10 different regions of England and Wales will be appointed, offering their services as lead contractor on MMC projects. The ‘Integrated Traditional Build & MMC framework’ is being designed in response to calls from social housing providers for a compliant way of involving trusted, local contractors on MMC projects, where elements of traditional construction are often still needed. With a growing number of MMC manufacturers supplying only their systems – rather than taking the principal contractor role – housing providers want to bring in local, trusted construction firms who can lead offsite projects. This will also allow housing associations and local authorities to continue investing in local contractors. To shape the framework, PfH and Building Better have spoken to SME building firms across the country, gathering feedback on how an agreement would best work, including ways to make the procurement process more straightforward and to develop the most effective contracting environment. The framework will cover the construction of housing, apartments, and extra care homes and there will be a regional lot structure. A contract notice will be issued in March 2024, with successful bidders appointed in the summer. Tony Woods, Technical Manager – Construction & Sustainability for PfH said: “We’ve been talking to traditional contractors to find out how they’d want to work on MMC schemes and, interestingly, many of their requests are the same as those from offsite manufacturers. Both want to be engaged early in the process, before set designs are in place. Both want a more transparent way of working with wider use of ‘pain and gain’ agreements and a simpler, more collaborative contracting environment. This feedback is now being used to design our integrated framework.” Trina Chakravarti, Director of Building Better said: “Increasingly, our members want a blend of different construction methods on their MMC projects. Traditional SME construction firms have a huge amount of expertise, and we’re keen to harness this through the framework. Using a collaborative approach means that manufacturers can concentrate on delivering their product, traditional firms can take control of the building process and we can offer housing associations and councils a wide range of construction solutions.” For further information about this procurement opportunity contact Tony Woods at Procurement for Housing (PfH) twoods@pfh.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
69 low carbon homes for social rent have now been completed and residents have been welcomed to their new homes on Silk Street in north Manchester. The long-term brownfield site overlooking the Rochdale Canal has been developed and brought back into use by the Council delivering 36 one-bedroom apartments, 12 two-bedroom apartments, 17 two storey, three-bedroom houses; and 4 three storey, four-bedroom houses. 16 of the apartments will be made available to people over the age of 55, who are right-sizing from larger council properties in Newton Heath, and across north Manchester. Each of the townhouses feature solar panels, a new kitchen and bathroom, generous gardens and private driveways with electric charging points. Each of the apartments have a balcony alongside shared outdoor space – and the building will be greened through living walls and living green roofs. The properties will make use of Ground Source Heat Pumps and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery to keep utility costs down for residents. The apartments have been built to HAPPI design principles that provide larger internal space as standard, which accommodate someone using a wheelchair, along with extra storage space. This means they can also be adapted to meet the needs of the tenants. Meet the neighbourhood Christine Durber – video case study available below Christine moved into her apartment in Chiffon House in September. She had lived in her four-bedroom home in Clayton for 27 years, and it was perfect for bringing up her three children. Now the kids have moved on, Christine was starting to feel uneasy living in such a big property on her own. This is where the Council’s right-sizing officer was able to help. Christine was shown a new apartment, and she was offered extra help with the move. “I fell in love with it,” Christine said. “The Council arranged the removal company for me, and I was given some money to help with the extra costs. It paid for new blinds and flooring. It was great to get that bit of help, it really took the hassle out of the move.” Christine’s apartment has been built to low carbon specifications, there is no gas supply to the property and her electric comes from a ground source heat pump. “The flat’s lovely and warm and the bills are great,” she said, “I was paying £160 a month in my old house and I’m now paying around £58, and this will come down even more in the summer because I won’t need the heating on.” Christine’s apartment was one of 16 set aside for people aged over 55 who are rightsizing into a more manageable home and the move has brought her so many benefits. “I feel very content here. I sleep better, I love the views and I can’t wait to see how they change when the summer comes. I used to rely on my kids to take me shopping, but now with so many shops on my doorstep I can do my own, I’m getting out most days and feeling more independent.” Donna Smith Donna moved into her ground floor apartment in November 2023. Donna and her husband have five grown-up children but as they moved out, their larger three-bedroom homes in Newton Heath became too much for them. Donna has suffered with arthritis for many years and the condition is worsening as she gets older. The stairs had become a daily challenge, and the large garden was too much for her to manage. The Council was able to step in and offered them a new ground floor two-bedroom apartment in the development. “I was delighted to be offered an apartment on one level. We have so much space and everything is so much easier for me.” Donna said. With everything on one level Donna no longer has stairs to worry about and the bathroom is a fully accessible wet room so that Donna no longer has to struggle to get in and out of the bath. The use of local labour, apprentices, and local suppliers has contributed to the overall impact of the scheme. A close relationship was also built with site neighbours including Bright Futures nursery with help provided towards improving outdoor spaces and equipment together with VIP visits for the nursery children. This investment is part of Manchester City Council’s commitment to build 36,000 new homes through to 2032 – part of the city’s ambitious housing strategy. 10,000 of these homes will be genuinely affordable to Manchester people, supporting our residents to live safe, happy and prosperous lives. Leader of the Council Cllr Bev Craig, said: “We are investing in our communities across the Manchester with a real focus on our district centres and affordable housing investment to meet the needs of our residents in their local areas. “Through our housing strategy we have committed to help build 36,000 new homes across the city in the next decade – and at least 10,000 of these will be genuinely affordable for Manchester people. “At this development, using Council-owned land, we have made sure that every house is available at social rent to help meet demand for high-quality affordable homes in this area – and ensure that as many people as possible can access these properties.” Cllr Gavin White, Manchester City Council’s executive member for housing and employment, said: “I have followed this development from day one – through planning and I was onsite when the first diggers arrived. This development is a great example of what we want from our affordable housing investment. “Not only are we delivering new social housing for our residents and supporting them to move from larger homes into properties that better suit their needs – we have also brought a long-term brownfield piece of public land back into use. “These low carbon homes are also cheap to run, well insulated and heated through ground source heat pumps – supporting these residents to spend less on their energy during the cost-of-living crisis. “But most importantly, we aren’t just building property
CLD Physical Security Systems, a Northwest-based business and the leading manufacturer and supplier of rigid mesh fencing and security gates in the UK, has been awarded the EcoVadis silver medal for sustainability, as part of its ongoing green initiatives. CLD is a leading supplier of security fencing in the UK, offering tailored, trusted and durable security solutions to protect environments such as data centres, schools, transport hubs, manufacturing warehouses, high-profile sporting venues, open spaces, and Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) sites. Independent rating provider, EcoVadis, has awarded CLD the silver medal for sustainability. Scoring an impressive 67/100, this result places CLD among the top 15% percent of companies assessed by EcoVadis in the past 12 months (85+ percentile). The EcoVadis rating is one of the most internationally renowned sustainability ratings. Using a scorecard, the rating measures various indicators such as sustainable objectives, implemented activities, certifications and recording measures. Depending on the industry, company size or geographical location, the rating considers 21 criteria along the entire value chain — from purchasing to production and human resources management. CLD consistently strives to introduce solutions that align with sustainable principles, such as its rental security systems. Rental options in the security industry provide a sustainable alternative, promoting resource efficiency and waste reduction. CLD offers clients access to high-quality security-rated solutions that provide a high level of security on a temporary basis, thereby reducing the need for new materials and long-term commitments. The EvoVadis award follows CLD’s partnership with the sustainability accreditation, Planet Mark last year. The Planet Mark Business Certification is an internationally recognised sustainability certification for businesses reporting its carbon footprint and demonstrating continuous progress, encouraging action and building an empowered community of like-minded individuals. As part of CLD’s commitment to environmental best practice, the business strategically emphasises rental solutions and solar-powered innovations that pave the way for a greener and more secure future, aligning with the contemporary focus on circular economies and resource optimisation. One example is CLD’s RiseMaster HE Barrier, a fully autonomous, off-grid, solar powered, automatic boom arm barrier system. The product was designed with sustainability in mind and features primary and secondary photovoltaic panels, eliminating the need for the installation of road crossing control cabling. The barrier system not only offers a more environmentally friendly option thanks to being completely solar powered, but also reduces carbon emissions due to no groundworks being required during installation. The RiseMaster offers off grid solar autonomy 24/7, 365 days a year and zero carbon emissions over a 10-year life cycle. It can be delivered with a full charge, utilising 100% renewable energy from the CLD factory. CLD has also made significant strides in incorporating eco-friendly materials into its product lines, including the use of 100% recycled plastic for its FenceSafe bases, and the incorporation of 78% recycled steel in its steel fencing and posts. Furthermore, CLD’s hoarding systems use 80% recycled plastic, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future. Neville Wells, Managing Director of CLD, commented: “Receiving the silver medal from EcoVadis showcases just how much CLD is prioritising sustainability measures across the entire company. This is even more incentive for us to further pursue our strategy of having a positive impact on the planet, whilst creating products that ensure the highest level of security and sustainability.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A partnership responsible for transforming Newcastle’s West End, is providing the opportunity for local developers and contractors to support an initiative, which is tackling the construction skills shortage. New Tyne West Development Company (NTWDC) – a partnership between Keepmoat, and Newcastle City Council – is hosting open days with The National Housebuilding Council (NHBC), at the NHBC Training Hub, at The Rise development in Scotswood – addressing the national shortage of bricklayers. The state of the art NHBC Training Hub is a partnership between NHBC and Keepmoat. It can support up to 100 apprentices annually to gain a Level Two Apprenticeship Qualification in bricklaying which is taught at the hub and applied onsite in collaboration with housebuilders. Held over two mornings – 22nd and 23rd February between 9am to 12 midday – attendees will be given the opportunity to tour the NHBC Training Hub, speak to apprentices, the expert trainers and find out more about the programme and how it can help upskill and increase their workforce. Within the last year, NTWDC’s build partner, Keepmoat, has supported over 30 apprentices, completing their apprenticeship at the NHBC Training Hub, with two enjoying work placements on The Rise. The partnership it is committed to employing 75 apprentices over the lifetime of the development. Geoff Scott, Social Value Manager at Keepmoat North East, said: “At Keepmoat we prioritise our responsibility to train, educate and support our staff. We encourage all developers and contractors to play their part in building the next generation of construction workers. “It has been a privilege to welcome the NHBC Training Hub to NTWDC’s The Rise – the first facility of its kind in the region. Keepmoat’s commitment and passion in providing local jobs for local people has already seen the programme support over 30 bricklaying apprentices. We are confident that if other developers and contractors make use of this initiative, we could see a significant increase in qualified bricklayers in the North East.” Jake McDougal, 17, from Kenton is an apprentice at the NHBC Training Hub and working on The Rise, he added: “I am really enjoying my training as it is a good mix of theory and practical hands-on experience as well as being able to work as part of an experienced site team.” Darryl Stewart, responsible for NHBC’s apprentice training programme and hubs, commented: “This is an excellent opportunity to find out more about what the NHBC Training Hub offers. Bricklaying is at the heart of house building and is a hugely important skill. Our apprenticeships are for everyone, and the training hub is a key component of NHBC’s ongoing commitment to supporting the next generation of house builders and equipping them with the skills to build high-quality new homes. “The NHBC Training Hub offers a realistic work environment and we’re seeing apprentices completing their training in just 14 months – many with distinctions. It’s a standout difference from the 30-month timescale more traditional learning routes take. An apprenticeship in the house-building industry is a pathway into a range of rewarding and well-paid careers that can make a real difference to the available future workforce. I’d encourage everyone to come along.” Established in 2013 to breathe new life into the west of the city through a £265 million, housing led regeneration programme, since building began more than 550 homes have been completed. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Letchworth-based company, Willmott Dixon, has been appointed to conduct the £55m redevelopment of Hertfordshire Constabulary’s police headquarters in Welwyn Garden City. Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner David Lloyd has approved the proposals, which had already received planning permission. The redevelopment, in Stanborough, will involve demolishing eleven of the 1960s-era buildings at the site to make way for a brand new working environment for over 600 operational staff that will achieve a BREEAM Excellent for ultra-high sustainability standards. Taking up 9,000 square metres, the new headquarters will reduce the current Stanborough estate’s long-term running costs as well as provide a new home for services and departments based at the site including the Major Crime Unit, victim services and the dog unit, along with the senior leadership team and operational support staff. Vincent & Gorbing Associates have designed the building, and the work is expected to conclude in summer 2026. Procured via the SCAPE Construction framework, it is hoped that the building will respond to new police working methods by providing a space that addresses staff wellbeing. It is targeting WELL Platinum Certification, a benchmark for advancing health and wellbeing within a single building. Stewart Brundell, Willmott Dixon’s managing director for North London and the Northern Homes Counties, said: “We are delighted to be working alongside Hertfordshire Constabulary to deliver their new headquarters. “As a proud Hertfordshire-based company, it is fantastic to be starting on site to provide a new facility for our county’s police force. This project follows on from our successful delivery of the Bedfordshire Police’s new custody suite. “The new HQ will provide Hertfordshire Constabulary’s people with a sustainable, flexible working environment which can be utilised for police and community groups as well.” Mark Robinson, group chief executive at the SCAPE group, added: “The redevelopment of the headquarters of Hertfordshire Constabulary will provide a considerable boost to policing services in the area, bringing positive change and benefits to the local community. “Through our close-working relationship with Willmott Dixon, we are dedicated to providing efficiency and cost savings throughout the project, alongside delivering social value for the public.” Willmott Dixon have been contracted to work on a variety of projects for the emergency services, including a forensics centre for Thames Valley Police, and a fire station and training centre for West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Sue Corrick of Allegion UK explores the evolution of panic and emergency exit hardware, examining the specification and installation points that decision makers must consider throughout modern application. The swift evacuation of a building and its occupants is critical in an escape or emergency situation. And for decades, escape doors and exit hardware have been co-dependent in their purpose of facilitating safe egress when it matters most. In fact, exit hardware has been providing users with a safe means of escape since the early 20th century. Following a string of high-profile disasters, including the infamous Iroquois Theatre Fire in Chicago in 1903, the conditions of the world’s built environment and its emergency exits were more closely inspected as crucial elements of public safety, in large part to The National Fire Protection’s (NFPA) Life Safety Code in the US. Incidentally, this period was a catalyst for change in the exit device industry, with the world’s first panic bar made available in an assortment of configurations in 1908, courtesy of Von Duprin. Today, the term ‘exit hardware’ is more conventionally categorised as either panic hardware or emergency exit hardware. With distinguishing characteristics and features, both categories of exit hardware provide users with a safe means of escape, and both have come a long way since their inception all those years ago. As such, selecting the most suitable solutions can be a challenge for modern projects and decision makers are reminded to consider a number of key factors. Distinctive door hardware In a fire scenario, a building’s evacuation methods must be as straightforward and defined as possible. When a person reaches an exit door, it is essential that the door can be operated with ease, regardless of who is operating it and where it is being used. While all exit hardware plays an integral role in this process, decision makers must consider a building’s type, application and its occupation levels when selecting between panic and emergency exit hardware, since there are meaningful differences between the two. Panic hardware for example, is a type of exit device that has been designed to provide safe and effective escape through doorways with minimum effort and without prior knowledge of its operation. Panic hardware devices come in the form of horizontal push or touch bars and are commonly applied to outward opening doors in public facing buildings or buildings with more than 60 occupants, where they can be operated by untrained people or members of the public, ensuring safe and effective escape. As such, panic device push and touch bars should be installed to provide the maximum effective length, but never less than 60% of the door leaf width, as stipulated by BS EN 1125 and harmonised CE and UKCA designated standards. With its size, panic hardware is typically easier to see and operate than some emergency exit hardware devices. With this in mind, decision makers should often choose to implement panic hardware solutions in busy public spaces such as hospitals, shops and places of entertainment where usability is paramount. For spaces where opening width is limited, a non-intrusive touch bar can also be a practical option. Furthermore, in cases where users may wish to gain access from the outside of a door with a panic bar, an outside access device can also be applied to maintain equal levels of accessibility and security. Emergency exit hardware is dissimilar in a few areas. Typically smaller devices, emergency exit hardware is often applied in buildings with less than 60 occupants or non-public buildings, where its users have prior knowledge of the building’s layout, its escape routes and the exit devices placed throughout them. Think office spaces and warehouses for example. In design, emergency exit devices commonly comprise of a single push pad with a rim latch or a lever handle operating a mortice escape lock or nightlatch and allow for single action egress. Where emergency exit hardware is applied, it must be certified to BS EN 179. Information is key As per Approved Document B, all doors located on an escape route must have suitable exit hardware installed. And so, with varied solutions available, specification teams must also consider the door in which an exit device will be fitted. Will the device be applied to single or double doors? What are the height and width requirements? And does the device need anti-thrust bolts for added levels of security? Above all, does it meet the latest fire safety standards? If in doubt, decision makers are urged to select door hardware devices that are tested to EN 1125 while referring to harmonised and designated standards if they feel unsure. BS EN 1125 and BS EN 179 standards provide important safety and reliability details on panic hardware and emergency exit devices respectively, reviewing classification, product performance requirements, test cycles and test methods as standard. For traceability purposes, decision makers and end-users can also review the UKCA and CE marks on exit hardware to find its fire rating, certificate numbers and the manufacturer’s details. Typically, dependable devices will be supplied with full product information from the manufacturer – including Declaration of Performance (DoP), Certifire certification and product data sheets – showing that they comply with the necessary harmonised standards. The Code for Construction Product Information has been designed to assist people in reviewing and selecting door hardware solutions transparently and can also be referred to for clear, accurate and up-to-date product information, to ensure door hardware solutions conform to the latest building standards and UKCA and CE certifications. Similarly, when it comes to installation, teams are advised to use the support that’s made available by manufacturers, in the form of helpful online tools and product guides. This further helps to ensure there are no oversights made at the installation stage that could develop into life-threatening issues later down the line. Under current EN standards, it is also recommended that all of a fire door’s hardware devices should be supplied from the same manufacturer and tested together to ensure the full doorset remains
AluK has made two appointments to the UK Board, with industry heavyweight Paul Booth joining as R&D Director and manufacturing specialist James Schools joining as Finance Director. They are both bringing valuable experience and expertise to AluK, to help the aluminium systems company deliver on its ambitious plans for 2024 and beyond. Paul Booth is an award winning product designer with more than 40 years’ experience in aluminium system design. He says the opportunity to join AluK and lead a complete transformation of its product range ahead of the challenges presented by Future Homes was one he couldn’t turn down. Paul commented: “Under Russell Yates’ leadership, AluK is a reinvigorated business in the UK with exciting plans and substantial backing from the European Group in terms of investment and resources. I’m delighted to be a part of that, and I’m already working with Russell and the rest of the engineering and technical team to remodel the new product development programme so that it is quicker, more streamlined and more customer focused. “One of the key things that attracted me to this role was AluK’s philosophy of being a global company but retaining local market influence in product design, so that we design products which meet local market needs, rather than trying to force a one size fits all product onto the market. In line with that, I’m already getting out and about meeting customers to ensure that we are delivering on exactly what they want, and I can promise some welcome announcements soon on our slider and bifold offering.” James Schools is a relative newcomer to the window and door market but has 14 years of finance experience working extensively with manufacturing entrepreneurs. He is promising to shift the focus of AluK’s finance offering, so that it better supports the needs of the company’s fabricator customer base. He said: “I want to see us working more closely in partnership with our customers, focusing on how to improve the customer experience, whilst also re-investing into the continued evolution and growth of the business, and I have lots of new initiatives in mind to help us to do that.” Russell Yates added: “This is an exciting time to be an AluK customer. As Paul and James’ appointments demonstrate, we’re committed to leading the way in aluminium, giving both established aluminium fabricators and newcomers to this sector really compelling reasons to do business with us.” More details at: https://uk.aluk.com/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A former apprentice, who is now a fully qualified joiner with Yorkshire and Lincolnshire construction firm Hobson & Porter, has been recognised for both the quality of his work, as well as going the extra mile for clients. Aaron Wilson joined Hobson & Porter in 2017 and completed a three-year apprenticeship in joinery, whilst working alongside experienced members of the team. Aaron has worked on several projects including the new Methodist Church in Driffield and medical centres in both Scunthorpe and Scarborough. Currently he is part of a small team working for Beverley Housing Charity on a programme of improvement works to modernise and enhance its portfolio of Almshouses in the town. His work is now being highlighted as part of National Apprenticeship Week which runs from 5th to the 11th of February. Chief executive, Andy Barber from Beverley Housing Charity, said: “Aaron has not only taken the time to get to know us as a charity, but also our residents. Aaron shows genuine care and attention to detail and wants to understand how the work he and his team are carrying out will impact local people. “On several occasions Aaron has gone above and beyond, making residents on site feel not only safe, but also cared for. He’s carried residents’ shopping upstairs for them and helped deal with a sensitive issue with a resident who has memory loss. “Aaron regularly brightens up our residents’ days, especially when the bad weather stops them from going out. Aaron is not just an exemplar employee of Hobson & Porter and a talented joiner, but despite his young years, he is a mature and caring citizen and a real pleasure to work with.” HR Director Jacquie Blades, from Hobson & Porter, said: “As soon as Aaron started with us, we could see how dedicated he was to his apprenticeship and his commitment remains just as strong to this day, six years on. Aaron is courteous, well-mannered and has a pleasant demeanour, always presenting himself well to colleagues and clients and we are not at all surprised by the commendation from Beverely Housing Charity. “Always fully focussed on any task in hand, he is well thought of by all his colleagues, and we are delighted that the charity has recognised him too. We of course will support him in the next steps of his career and can’t wait to see what he achieves next.” Aaron, who is 24 years old said: “I’m lucky that I really love what I do. I knew that an apprenticeship would be the best route into construction for me and Hobson & Porter have supported me every step of the way. I’m 100% behind apprenticeships and have loved the hybrid learning opportunities the career path has given me. I would wholeheartedly recommend an apprenticeship to anyone currently considering one. “I hope to develop further in my career to become a site manager, and I have recently completed the Site Supervision Safety Training Scheme to help with this. Working at Beverley Housing Charity is a particular highlight to date as I get to meet so many interesting people and make a real difference to their lives, whilst also taking the opportunity to supervise my own project for the first time. I would like to pay special thanks to my colleagues Mark Tomlinson and Dave Brown amongst others for their steadfast support and mentorship.” Hobson & Porter has a rolling apprenticeship scheme for more than 45 years and is wholeheartedly committed to training and development to help address the skills shortages in the construction industry. As part of its award-winning Foundations initiative, the firm also helps signpost apprentices towards organisations within its own supply chain. Hobson & Porter also has an additional 15 team members enrolled on training plans and higher and further education courses. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Selecting furniture and other poolside features necessitates that you consider functionality, aesthetics, style, comfort, and longevity. The choice of chairs, the tables, the arrangement, and the little decorations can turn your pool area from just a swimming spot into your personal chill zone. The outdoor furniture and features you choose will fortify the poolside ambiance – whether you’re soaking up the sunshine, hosting an evening party, or seeking a tranquil corner for reflection. So how do you start? Let this guide walk you through key elements that turn a basic pool area into a magnificent alfresco sanctuary. Nothing beats kicking back by the pool with the sun shining down, right? But sometimes, you need a little shade to cool off. Those nifty pool umbrellas are lifesavers, especially if you’re chilling in sunbaked spots like Brisbane. They’re like your own sun blockers and add a nice touch to your pool’s look. When you’re out shopping for pool umbrellas in Brisbane, there are certain considerations. First, think about size. It should be big enough to hide from the sun but not so huge that it takes over. Next, go for materials that can handle a bit of beating in the weather. And style? Pick something that makes your poolside look even cooler. And it’s not all about umbrellas. You could go for a fancy pergola or some canopies or even plant a few trees around for a natural vibe. Each adds its own twist, from a classy pergola setup to the relaxed, leafy feel of a mini-tree haven. The best part of your pool area? Where you lounge. That’s where you’ll be chilling, soaking up some sun, or maybe just taking a quick nap. You want something comfy but tough enough to handle the outdoors, and it’s got to scream ‘you.’ Check out loungers, daybeds, hanging chairs, and even sectional sofas. Focus on materials that last, and don’t forget cushions and covers—they’re not just comfy; they’re a chance to show off your style. And don’t simply plop them down anywhere. Set up a cozy corner, a sunbathing spot, or a secret hideaway to make it totally yours. Why stick to indoor meals when you’ve got this sweet poolside spot? Whether it’s a casual BBQ or a fancy outdoor dinner, the right table and chairs can make every meal feel like a special event. Choose a set that fits your space and can handle your crew. You need something sturdy, such as teak, metal, or hey, how about synthetic rattan? In an exclusive survey with 627 respondents, 40.67% (that’s 255 people) said that all-weather or resin wicker, which is just a fancy name for synthetic rattan, is their go-to for outdoor furniture. Rattan is not just tough; it also lasts way longer than the stuff made from vinyl or plastic. Plus, these materials come in a bunch of styles. Whether you’re all about keeping it casual or you want to dial up the chic factor, there’s something for everyone. And why not add an outdoor rug for cozy feels or string lights for that magical evening vibe? If you’re into cooking, consider an outdoor kitchen or a grill. Good lighting can turn your poolside into a whole other world when the sun goes down. It’s about seeing where you’re going and setting the mood. Mix up different types of lights. Underwater lights give your pool that starry-night look, path lights keep things safe, and accent lights? They highlight the best parts of your pool. And string lights or lanterns—perfect for a touch of fairy-tale magic. Consider LED lights; they last forever and don’t consume much power. With smart lighting, you can change up the vibe right from your phone. Accessories can transform your poolside area from basic to breathtaking. Outdoor rugs, for instance, define spaces and add a touch of warmth and texture. Choose materials that are durable and easy to clean, ensuring they stand up to the outdoor elements. Planters and greenery also play a crucial role. They bring life and color to your pool area, creating a natural, serene environment. Consider low-maintenance plants that thrive in your climate, adding both beauty and a sense of privacy. Lastly, don’t overlook the power of outdoor art. Weather-resistant sculptures or wall art can infuse personality and interest into your poolside space, reflecting your unique style and taste. Okay, so you love your pool looking all stylish and inviting, but don’t forget about safety—because that’s super important. You know how pool areas can get slippery? That’s where non-slip surfaces come in. Pick materials that keep you on your feet, even when things get wet. They should feel nice to walk on because who likes rough surfaces under their toes? Now, onto pool fencing. You want a fence that does its job—keeping the gang safe—but also looks like it belongs there. So look for options that tick both boxes: safety and style. And don’t forget about pool covers. More than keeping leaves and bugs out, they’re a big deal for safety, especially if you’ve got kids or furry friends running around. Automated covers? Even better. They’re like having a safety guard that keeps your pool clean and a breeze to use. Conclusion Spicing up your poolside is about making it feel part of you. Each piece adds to your little slice of paradise, from choosing cool umbrellas to lighting up the night. So go on, get creative, and make your poolside the ultimate hangout spot for your outdoor events.
In today’s fast-paced business world, creating welcoming outdoor areas is more important than ever. This is where innovative commercial shade sails can come in. These stylish additions have completely changed the game in how companies use their outdoor spaces. More than just shields from the sun, these eye-catching structures have become representative of modern commercial design and functionality. Shade sails have become an increasingly popular choice for businesses looking to stand out and improve customer experience. They are now popping up at cafés, shopping centres, and other commercial spots, proving just how versatile and useful they are. This article dives into the top six benefits gained from using commercial shade sails for outdoor business areas. 1. Versatile and customisable Shade sails showcase versatility and customizability. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colours to fit into different spaces and architectural designs. Triangular sails can dance alongside elegant curves above tree-shaded benches, while neutral tones can match any aesthetic. This customization makes them suitable for the unique space requirements of various establishments, such as restaurants, hotels, and healthcare facilities. You can play with shapes, sizes, colours, and patterns for a personalised touch aligned with your brand identity. You can even obtain custom-built commercial shade sails, ensuring you tailor them according to your business needs. 2. Sun protection and comfort Sun exposure poses a health concern, and protecting your customers and employees from harmful UV rays is paramount. Shade sails offer up to 95% UV protection, creating a cool and comfortable haven outdoors. Imagine children playing under the dappled sunlight filtering through the sails, families having a leisurely al fresco lunch, or employees enjoying a rejuvenating break without having to squint against the harsh glare of the sunlight. Shade sails can significantly reduce the risk of heat stress and dehydration, especially in regions with intense sunshine. Studies show that shaded areas can be up to 20°F cooler than unshaded ones. This suggests that the shade sails can reduce the potential discomfort of an uncovered area, enhancing the overall experience of your patrons. Providing shade demonstrates you prioritise patron well-being. 3. Customer satisfaction and revenue boost Shade isn’t just a perk; it’s a competitive advantage in customer attraction and retention. Creating inviting outdoor spaces is crucial. Shade sails can transform scorching patios into delightful lounging areas, increasing the usability and comfort of the space. Research indicates that providing shade in outdoor areas can increase customer satisfaction and boost revenue. Also, a report showed that 84% of companies that worked to improve their customer service experienced revenue growth. A shaded sidewalk café bustling with activity or vibrant poolside lounge chairs for guests seeking refuge from the sun while they sip summer cocktails enhances comfort and ambience. By improving customer satisfaction in this manner, your establishment can become the destination of choice for customers looking to beat the heat or other elements in style. 4. Brand image and marketing Shade sails aren’t just functional; they can also serve as canvases for your brand. You can have them customised with your brand logos, signature colours, or other visual elements. You can also get creative with the sails’ various shapes and configurations. In a nutshell, shade sails can be turned into eye-catching marketing tools, promoting your business even from afar. Think of this approach as an outdoor advertising tactic that also improves customer experience. They may even serve as conversation-starting spaces that dazzle on social media. Shade sails themselves can help reinforce brand identity. 5. Cost-effectiveness and durability Compared to permanent awnings or pergolas, shade sails offer exceptional value and flexibility. They’re more affordable to install, maintain, and reconfigure. That adaptability suits changing seasonal needs and temporary events or pop-up markets. Their lightweight nature facilitates adjustments, unlike fixed structures. Furthermore, shade sails are built to last, with their weather-resistant fabrics that can withstand wind, rain, and even light snow. With proper care, they can provide years of stylish and functional shade. It is a cost-effective investment that will remain useful on hot days without costing as much as permanent installations over the long haul. 6. Optimizing unused spaces Don’t waste the potential of barren courtyards or empty corners. With some creativity, shade sails can transform unused outdoor areas into unexpected revenue generators. Car parks can become shaded waiting zones to enhance the customer experience. Rooftop terraces might reveal themselves as exotic bars hosting private events. The possibilities are limited only by imagination once shade sails help you recognise and activate the potential in overlooked spaces. Conclusion Altogether, commercial shade sails aren’t just accessories but catalysts for elevating your brand, enriching the user experience, and driving revenue through creative optimization of spaces. So help your customers create enduring memories under whimsical shade sails, and your business will reap the benefits.
