In Residential Property Awards run by Yorkshire Children’s Charity The sustainable, regeneration and innovative residential work in Yorkshire of a Leeds-based architects practice has been recognised in this year’s Residential Property Awards run by the Yorkshire Children’s Charity. Edward Architects has been named as the Best Residential Consultancy Practice in
The Insulated Render and Cladding Association (INCA) has named Alsecco’s Northern Regional Manager Mark Weaver as its new chairperson. In his position at the helm of the leading trade association for the external wall insulation industry in the UK, Mark will champion the sector, raising awareness of its work and
Ready for Another Super Bowl As the NFL season heads toward its climax, teams are jostling for position, aiming to secure a spot at Super Bowl LIX. Slated for February 9, 2025, the historic event will unfold at New Orleans’ iconic Caesars Superdome, a venue that has hosted more Super
The best basketball players in the world are gearing up for another exciting season, and with that comes the chance to witness them compete in some of the most iconic venues in sports. NBA arenas aren’t just places for games—they’re architectural marvels, offering unique experiences to fans with their design,
In Residential Property Awards run by Yorkshire Children’s Charity The sustainable, regeneration and innovative residential work in Yorkshire of a Leeds-based architects practice has been recognised in this year’s Residential Property Awards run by the Yorkshire Children’s Charity. Edward Architects has been named as the Best Residential Consultancy Practice in the award scheme which celebrates excellence across the region’s residential property sector. The architects firm, which rebranded and relocated to Marshall’s Mill last year to accommodate continued business growth, successfully demonstrated delivery excellence and first rate services for its clients in the residential category. Highlight projects in the region included Massey Fold in Spofforth for Yorkshire Housing where the firm was lead consultant in securing planning consent for a 72-home scheme in the village, which is set in a Conservation Area. An innovative, carbon efficient 216-home development on Edge Lane in Openshaw for Your Housing also demonstrated the practice’s commitment to sustainable design and community-focused housing solutions. This scheme also saw the firm collaborate with the University of Liverpool to develop four identical houses with differing specifications, monitored over a year to assess cost, comfort, usability and energy efficiency for future applications. Another key sustainable scheme included a masterplan for the regeneration of the former 73-acre Maltby colliery site in Rotherham for Hargreaves Land, which subsequently led to the firm’s role evolving to deliver the employment units and the outline application for a 200-unit residential housing scheme. The firm’s work in helping to drive forward the ambitious community scheme to transform Holbeck’s iconic viaduct in Leeds into a vibrant green space for the public to enjoy was also lauded, as well as it’s specialism in improving the lives of clients, families and carers through its accessible design work. Yorkshire Children’s Charity was established in 2022 and has already made a huge impact in the region, helping more than 20,650 disadvantaged children in Yorkshire. The Residential Property Awards put the spotlight on the region’s property talent whilst simultaneously raising vital funds to support the valuable work of the charity. Graham Edward, MD, Edward Architects said; “We are very proud to win this award and it is testament to the hard work of our entire team. As a business we have seen a 10% growth in turnover despite challenging market conditions and rising costs, so picking up this accolade is a great end to the year as both the housing sector and the modular market are key drivers in this growth and remain active.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Insulated Render and Cladding Association (INCA) has named Alsecco’s Northern Regional Manager Mark Weaver as its new chairperson. In his position at the helm of the leading trade association for the external wall insulation industry in the UK, Mark will champion the sector, raising awareness of its work and ensuring it has representation on trade bodies and government groups. Having previously served as vice chair, Mark was officially voted in as chair at the association’s Annual General Meeting. As a not-for-profit organisation, INCA is dedicated to promoting high standards, best practice and innovation in the external wall insulation sector. The association plays a crucial role in supporting its members and advancing the industry through technical guidance, training and advocacy. Mark Weaver brings a wealth of experience to the role of INCA chair having worked across the industry for three decades. As the Northern Regional Manager at Alsecco UK, Mark works with developers and contractors across the north and midlands regions in the specification of brick slip and render finished external wall insulation systems offering expert support. He said: “INCA is a great organisation creating a united approach to key issues and opportunities within the external wall insulation (EWI) sector, looking after the interests of both manufacturer and contractor members. “I’m looking forward to continuing the excellent work INCA has been doing and promoting awareness of how members can support the Building Safety Act and the importance of early engagement right across the supply chain. “By fostering collaboration between INCA members and stakeholders, and continuing to increase membership, we can drive the innovation and best practices that will shape the future of external wall insulation in the UK. At the same time, we will protect and grow the interests of all our members and the EWI industry at large, by continuing to lobby the Government on the best strategy to insulate the UK’s buildings.” INCA and Alsecco UK, a leading manufacturer and supplier of external wall insulation systems, have a long-standing relationship. INCA and its members remain committed to addressing challenges and opportunities for the construction industry, particularly in the areas of energy efficiency and building safety. Under Mark Weaver’s leadership, the association is poised to continue its vital work in shaping the future of the external wall insulation industry in the UK. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Ready for Another Super Bowl As the NFL season heads toward its climax, teams are jostling for position, aiming to secure a spot at Super Bowl LIX. Slated for February 9, 2025, the historic event will unfold at New Orleans’ iconic Caesars Superdome, a venue that has hosted more Super Bowls than any other stadium in history. Formerly known as the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, this architectural and engineering feat has been a pivotal part of New Orleans’ skyline and continues to be a crown jewel for large-scale events. When the Super Bowl kicks off in 2025, New Orleans will tie Miami for hosting the most Super Bowls, but the Superdome itself holds the record, having hosted seven times already. This will be the eighth time the Superdome welcomes the world’s most-watched sporting event, with its first in 1978 and the most recent in 2013. So, what makes this stadium so iconic for major events like the Super Bowl? What Makes the Superdome Unique? In terms of architecture, the Caesars Superdome is a marvel. Its colossal dome structure, with a 680-foot diameter and a roof covering 9.7 acres, sets it apart as the world’s largest fixed-dome building. The stadium, made entirely from steel, symbolises strength and endurance, with a seating capacity of 73,208, expandable to 76,468, making it one of the most flexible venues for large events. For those in the construction industry, the Superdome serves as an example of both innovative design and long-term resilience. Its synthetic turf system, the largest continuous one in the NFL, demonstrates how engineering solutions evolve to meet the demands of modern sports and events. Beyond its physical structure, the Superdome’s history is intertwined with one of the most challenging periods in New Orleans’ history – Hurricane Katrina. In 2005, as the city reeled from the storm’s devastation, the stadium became a sanctuary for residents who couldn’t evacuate. Despite suffering damage from the hurricane, including the peeling off of its outer covering, the Superdome’s restoration was a testament to New Orleans’ resilience. The $185 million refurbishment project, partially funded by FEMA, saved the structure from what could have been a total rebuild. Super Construction: How the Superdome Came to Be Like many ambitious projects, the construction of the Superdome didn’t go exactly to plan. Originally expected to open in time for the 1972 NFL season, the construction timeline stretched until August 1975, with the final cost skyrocketing from $46 million to $165 million—a whopping 359% over budget. Yet, the result was worth the wait and the investment. The Caesars Superdome was never intended to be just a football stadium; it has become a multifunctional space, hosting everything from concerts to conventions, making it a prime example of adaptive reuse in the architectural world. In today’s market, such flexibility is highly prized in both commercial and residential developments, where spaces need to serve multiple purposes. Other spaces designed into this amazing building are so you can bet on sports. In fact, anything you can think of has not been forgotten. The venue is capable of anything. Bigger Than the Super Bowl? What could be bigger than the Super Bowl? For the Superdome, the answer is a star-studded concert by Taylor Swift, the global sensation whose fanbase rivals the NFL’s. In October 2024, Swift will play three consecutive shows at the Superdome, the first multi-day event in the stadium’s history, proving its capability to host monumental non-sporting events as well. These concerts are expected to shatter revenue records and serve as a reminder that the Caesars Superdome is a venue that goes beyond sports, setting the stage for large-scale entertainment as well. Super Bowl LXI: A Look Ahead As New Orleans prepares for Super Bowl LIX in 2025, the city hopes for a smoother event than the infamous 2013 Super Bowl, which saw a 34-minute power outage in the third quarter. Despite this hiccup, the game between the Baltimore Ravens and San Francisco 49ers was a classic, remembered for its thrilling play and narrow 34-31 victory by the Ravens. This year, both the Ravens and the 49ers are early favourites for the Super Bowl, setting the stage for a potential rematch. But beyond the football, the Caesars Superdome remains an architectural landmark, embodying innovation, resilience, and adaptability—qualities every building should aspire to. From the design, construction, and architecture sectors, the Caesars Superdome stands as a case study in the potential of large-scale, multifunctional spaces. As New Orleans prepares to make history once again, the Superdome is ready to prove why it’s the perfect venue for the world’s biggest sporting event.
The best basketball players in the world are gearing up for another exciting season, and with that comes the chance to witness them compete in some of the most iconic venues in sports. NBA arenas aren’t just places for games—they’re architectural marvels, offering unique experiences to fans with their design, technology, and atmosphere. Let’s explore some of the largest and most electrifying NBA arenas, ranking them by their size, infrastructure, and fan experience. The Largest NBA Arenas by Capacity While size alone doesn’t determine the best arena, it’s certainly a factor when considering the grandeur of a venue. Below are the five largest NBA arenas by seating capacity. 1. United Center – Chicago, Illinois The United Center, home of the Chicago Bulls, is the largest NBA arena. Known for its electric atmosphere, it has housed countless iconic moments in basketball history, particularly during the Michael Jordan era. The size and legacy of the venue make it a standout for fans. 2. Wells Fargo Center – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania The Wells Fargo Center is a modern arena in the heart of Philadelphia. It’s not just large—it’s packed with technology upgrades, offering fans a premier game-day experience, from high-end amenities to high-definition screens and a focus on fan engagement. 3. Capital One Arena – Washington D.C. Located in the nation’s capital, the Capital One Arena is a multipurpose venue known for its modern infrastructure and large seating capacity. It’s a hub for both basketball and other major events, making it one of the most visited arenas in the NBA. 4. Little Caesars Arena – Detroit, Michigan Detroit’s Little Caesars Arena stands out for its cutting-edge design and technological innovations. With a hefty price tag, this venue offers a sleek, high-tech environment, designed not just for sports but also for entertainment and community events. 5. Madison Square Garden – New York, New York Madison Square Garden is the oldest NBA arena but remains one of the most iconic sports venues in the world. Its history, location in the heart of New York City, and unmatched atmosphere make it a standout, despite not being the largest in capacity. Top NBA Arenas by Design and Experience While size is important, what truly makes an NBA arena great is the combination of design, fan experience, and atmosphere. Other spaces designed into these amazing building are so fan can literally be betting on sports. In fact, anything you can think of has not been forgotten. The venue is capable of anything. Below, we rank the top arenas by these factors. 1. Madison Square Garden – New York Knicks Madison Square Garden isn’t just famous for its size but for its atmosphere. It’s often referred to as “The World’s Most Famous Arena.” The Knicks may not always be championship contenders, but the energy of the Garden is unmatched. The stadium’s bright lights, fan enthusiasm, and historic presence make it the best place to catch an NBA game. 2. TD Garden – Boston Celtics Boston’s TD Garden is steeped in NBA history, home to one of the league’s most storied franchises. The atmosphere inside the Garden buzzes with championship spirit, especially as the Celtics remain title contenders. Its mix of modern amenities and rich history makes it a must-visit arena. 3. Crypto.com Arena – Los Angeles Lakers Formerly known as Staples Center, Crypto.com Arena is where Hollywood meets basketball. Located in the heart of LA, this arena is known for hosting stars on the court and in the stands. It’s a spectacle unlike any other venue, with Star Plaza outside and a glittering array of Lakers memorabilia making this arena a fan favourite. 4. Chase Center – Golden State Warriors Opened in 2019, the Chase Center is one of the newest and most advanced arenas in the NBA. Situated along San Francisco’s waterfront, the arena is both an architectural and technological masterpiece. Its enormous scoreboard, LED displays, and state-of-the-art features make it one of the most impressive venues in the league. 5. United Center – Chicago Bulls The United Center, dubbed “The House that Jordan Built,” offers fans an incredible atmosphere. Chicago’s iconic traditions, including the raucous cheering during the national anthem, set it apart. It’s not just the largest but one of the most storied arenas in the league, with a fanbase that has lived through multiple championship runs.
