A major 50/50 joint venture between housebuilder The Hill Group and housing association Peabody has partnered with specialist real estate developer Goodstone Living to deliver 360 high-quality Build to Rent (BTR) homes at Dagenham Green. The deal, valued at £116 million, is one of the largest in the BTR sector
Modular homes company Boutique Modern has revealed an innovative product called ModernHome which will build homes quickly for people on the social housing waiting list and help local authorities save significant money at a crucial time. As well as providing comfortable, safe and stylish homes for residents, the ModernHome product
Cumberland Council has given the green light to plans for significant public realm improvements and the creation of a pedestrianised square to the north of Carlisle station, at Court Square. The redevelopment is a central part of the £27 million Carlisle Station Gateway project, which aims to transform the station
Born as a Collaboration between Architect and Creative Director Artur Sharf and Matthew Auerbach, Teyo Specializes in Design, Fabrication and Installation of Rare Natural Stone, Furniture, Brass and Veneer Teyo Products Serve a Wide Range of Developers, Architects, Designers and Private clients. Today marks the official unveiling of Teyo’s brand-new
BoSS®, part of ProDriven Global Brands (formerly known as WernerCo) and the UK’s number one mobile tower systems manufacturer, has unveiled an enhanced version of its leading low-level multi-application mobile podium, QuickPod with the launch of its brand-new 1500 model. The QuickPod 1500 builds on the innovation and ease-of-use that
Tarmac Croxden sand and gravel quarry has reached new levels of efficiency and performance thanks to the installation of a cutting-edge washing and screening plant from Quarry Manufacturing & Supplies (QMS). This advancement marks a transformative step for the Staffordshire site, ensuring it can reliably meet growing demand for its
Construction is one of the biggest industries around the world and for good reason. By throwing up new commercial buildings, homes, shops, freeways, and so much more, construction workers are the cornerstone of society. Unfortunately, construction accidents are extremely common and are often the foundation of a worker’s compensation claim
Smart cities are no longer just a futuristic concept—they are becoming a reality thanks to decentralized technologies like blockchain. With increasing urbanization, cities are under pressure to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance security. Traditional infrastructure often struggles with fragmented data, outdated processes, and inefficiencies, but blockchain offers a solution
As the global casino resorts continue to progress, developers seem to be stretching the limits of what can be done in terms of entertainment architecture. These ambitious projects, from the dazzling skyline of Las Vegas to the overpopulated shores of Macau, are changing the definition of luxury and innovation in
You really shouldn’t be surprised to learn Texas is home to more amusement parks than most people can keep track of. After all, this is the Lonestar State and everything is bigger here, including the number of rollercoasters. Since you can hop any number of rollercoasters just about anywhere in
A major 50/50 joint venture between housebuilder The Hill Group and housing association Peabody has partnered with specialist real estate developer Goodstone Living to deliver 360 high-quality Build to Rent (BTR) homes at Dagenham Green. The deal, valued at £116 million, is one of the largest in the BTR sector this year. The new homes will be part of the first phase of a major regeneration project transforming the former Ford Stamping Plant site into a vibrant mixed-use neighbourhood. This initial phase of the Dagenham Green scheme will include 935 homes, with the wider development expected to deliver over 3,500 new homes, extensive public spaces, and key amenities. Peabody’s masterplan aims to create a sustainable, thriving community in East London, with the first homes slated for completion in 2027 and full project completion expected by 2028. The BTR development will feature a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments across three residential buildings, ranging from 14 to 18 storeys. Situated close to Dagenham Dock train station, residents will benefit from direct connections to central London in just 20 minutes. The homes will include energy-efficient systems and are targeting high environmental performance ratings, including EPC B, WiredScore Platinum, and Fitwel 3-star certifications. Amenities will include fitness and co-working spaces, concierge services, private dining areas, and landscaped podium gardens overlooking a new urban park. Goodstone Living, which is behind the development, is working through its first managed investment vehicle, Goodstone Living Partners 1 (GLP1), which is capitalised by Macquarie Asset Management and the Northern Local Government Pension Scheme. This partnership brings the total number of next-generation BTR homes under construction across Edinburgh, Birmingham, and London to approximately 1,300. The Dagenham Green project also supports the local community with a mix of accessible, high-quality rental homes, making it one of the most affordable BTR developments in London. The project aims to cater to private renters in the area, offering homes at prices within reach for the majority of the local community. Peabody’s wider 45-acre masterplan will provide a host of amenities, including an urban park, lake, children’s play areas, community gardens, and new infrastructure such as a secondary school, medical centre, and market square. These features are designed to enhance the area’s biodiversity while supporting the growing neighbourhood. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Modular homes company Boutique Modern has revealed an innovative product called ModernHome which will build homes quickly for people on the social housing waiting list and help local authorities save significant money at a crucial time. As well as providing comfortable, safe and stylish homes for residents, the ModernHome product offers a rapid to deploy, innovative and cost-effective financial model that will transform council and housing association land into vibrant communities, alleviating the costly top-up requirements currently plaguing councils around the UK. This product launch comes after recent data from the Local Government Association (LGA) revealed the number of households in temporary accommodation has surged by 89% over the past decade. Dick Shone, managing director at Boutique Modern, which is based in Newhaven, East Sussex, said: “We believe the launch of ModernHome can provide a genuine solution to the national housing shortage. “Local authorities are spending billions on emergency accommodation all over the country when this money could be spent on other important local services. “ModernHome and the financial models available with it can immediately stop this haemorrhage of cash and provide a solution to this long-term problem. “The product is available right now across London and the South East, with plans to roll out the product nationally as soon as possible. “ModernHome has been designed above all else to provide safe and comfortable homes, with a stylish design, that residents will enjoy living in and which will fit in with the surrounding neighbourhood. “Interest in ModernHome from councils has already been strong as local authorities need a financially viable solution that responds to their needs. We’re confident this uptake will continue as we roll out across wider areas of the UK.” In the 2022/23 financial year, councils spent more than £1.74 billion on temporary housing, largely due to the shortage of social housing and rising private rental costs, according to the LGA. For example, in Eastbourne, the council has been spending £4.5 million on temporary accommodation, which equates to 49p in every £1 collected in council tax. With many councils now allocating more than half their housing budgets to emergency accommodation, ModernHome presents a financially viable alternative which can be delivered in a fraction of the time of a traditional council housing scheme. It is also an excellent fit for sites that may be earmarked for future development, maximising the use of available space to provide urgent accommodation for those in need. When required, ModernHome can even be easily relocated by crane to a new site, allowing the land to be repurposed for permanent developments in the short or long-term future. Another unique and innovative offering of ModernHome is that councils can lease the homes from Boutique Modern with monthly payments in line with their Local Housing Allowance for up to 20 years, with options for outright sale too. This means that councils with limited capital to deploy, can use ModernHome on sites without the outlay of typical development. The available ModernHome range includes seven different apartment types, developed with Fuse Architects, including homes with studio accommodation right up to spacious four-bedroom layouts. Schemes can be up to four storeys high, with each development designed to enhance and fit in with the look of the local area. Dave Hughes, design director of Fuse Architects, said: “It is a privilege to work with Boutique Modern on this innovative and much needed housing product to address the shocking lack of temporary and affordable housing in this country. ModernHome provides a high quality, sustainable and viable, immediate solution, to this problem and we are proud to be involved.” The products are also designed to be affordable to run, low energy and easy to maintain, which is expected to minimise ongoing costs to tenants and local authorities. Boutique Modern has also joined the Prisoners Building Homes initiative run by the Government, Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, which will see the contractor partner with Ford Open Prison to employ people serving sentences in the Newhaven factory and in office roles, unlocking up to 100% funding for local authorities to pay for planning permission and up to £10,000 per home towards infrastructure on sites using ModernHome. The ModernHome range also includes additional facilities such as community spaces, coffee shops, pop up spaces and other commercial spaces, which can be tailored to the needs of the development and surrounding neighbourhood, recognising that these housing schemes need to solve the immediate problem whilst enhancing existing neighbourhoods and towns. Importantly, Boutique Modern, the UK’s first certified B Corp modular construction company, has not abandoned or steered away from any of its existing environmental practices to develop ModernHome with environmental standards and social value considered as part of the offering. The product is delivered using its BOPAS-certified build system guaranteeing a lifespan of at least 60 years, ensuring long-term value for councils, investors and residents. As part of the offering, Boutique Modern will also provide a planned and responsive maintenance service to all products including compliance checks, warranty renewals and component inspections. With pilot schemes with local authorities already in development for planning permission, it will soon be clear what impact ModernHome will have on the number one issue plaguing local authorities around the UK. Boutique Modern is already taking ModernHome enquiries with a focus on London and the South East. For more information visit: https://boutiquemodern.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Cumberland Council has given the green light to plans for significant public realm improvements and the creation of a pedestrianised square to the north of Carlisle station, at Court Square. The redevelopment is a central part of the £27 million Carlisle Station Gateway project, which aims to transform the station area and create a more welcoming environment for both residents and visitors. The project is supported by a £20 million investment from the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, a collaborative initiative designed to drive regeneration across the Borderlands region. This funding comes from the UK and Scottish Governments, with additional contributions from Network Rail and Cumberland Council. Planning approval will enable a series of enhancements to Court Square, including: Construction work is set to begin in autumn 2025, following the completion of planned highways and public realm improvement works on English Street and the Crescent/Botchergate junction. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Born as a Collaboration between Architect and Creative Director Artur Sharf and Matthew Auerbach, Teyo Specializes in Design, Fabrication and Installation of Rare Natural Stone, Furniture, Brass and Veneer Teyo Products Serve a Wide Range of Developers, Architects, Designers and Private clients. Today marks the official unveiling of Teyo’s brand-new 6,554-square-foot showroom and studio, showcasing its furniture and raw natural materials in Miami’s Design District. Teyo specializes in the sourcing, design and fabrication of marble, onyx, travertine and limestone furniture for a wide range of discerning clients around the world. Teyo was born from a collaboration between Matthew Auerbach, founder of Teyo, and creative director, architect and Yodezeen co-founder Artur Sharf, who possess more than 35 years of combined experience in executing complex architectural and interior design projects. From vanities and kitchen collections, to dressers, bathtubs and tables, among Teyo’s signature materials and pieces include: Capriccio bathtub This oval designer bathtub flows into the floor, creating a connection between the bath and the surrounding space. The Capriccio Bathtub is a fusion of aesthetics and functionality. Crafted from Bronze Fantasy marble, its oval shape and straight millings on the fronts contribute to its contemporary allure. The back features a freestanding element made of hot-rolled metal, cleverly and elegantly housing all bath fixtures. Armonia Vanity Unit Teyo’s signature vanity unit features a marble top adorned with Fior di Bosco marble, complemented by a base of rich eucalyptus wood cabinets. The two sinks enhance functionality without compromising on aesthetics. Celestia Dresser The Celesta Dresser is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and ingenuity. Its Bianco Lilac marble frame and black vein accents are distinguished by a pristine white backdrop. The leather sections on the countertop are precisely cut and thoughtfully placed with compartments for watches, ornaments and small accessories. Covered with a layer of glass, these leather segments not only add a textural contrast but also safeguard the dresser’s timeless elegance. Luminosa Kitchen Set Teyo’s Luminosa Kitchen Set is a harmonious blend of natural materials and timeless forms. The set’s most distinctive feature is its round table, which seamlessly extends from the island. Precision-engineered with a robust brass frame and carefully selected onyx, the Luminosa Kitchen is a sophisticated kitchen island, and an intricately crafted intimate dining table from Radica di Noce. Mare Vanity Composed of Fior di Bosco natural marble, the Mare Vanity is played in two dimensions: a monolith with a smooth round sink opening and a rail format. The customization of marble in the form of corrugated stone on the right creates a convenient, concealed storage option for bath accessories, while the sink’s size allows for ergonomic functionality. Alba Vanity The unconventional shape of this vanity unit was dictated by its sharp character centered upon protruding slabs that embody the formidable force of natural elements. Framed in the refined Silver Roots marble, with delicate shades of light gray and copper veins, the Alba Vanity Unit model comprises the uniquely ribbed basin section, which is adjacent to built-in lighting embedded into the marble base. On the left, there are recesses designed for storage, carefully crafted for ergonomic functionality. Camilla Kitchen Collection Meticulous craftsmanship renders modern forms timeless in the Camilla Kitchen. Milled travertine embraces the smooth curves of the kitchen island and backsplash, while smooth travertine graces a trio of hanging cabinets and the island’s workbench, which becomes a cantilevered breakfast bar. Both the countertop and base lighting subtly illuminate the setting, which is framed by natural oak veneer cabinetry. In its refined linework and unified warm palette, Camilla embodies the magnetism of modern design. Poésie outdoor coffee table and fireplace Carved from Rosso Levanto marble, this outdoor fireplace and coffee table radiates with a captivating red hue. The bio fireplace, adorned with dark small stones, provides both visual intrigue and a source of ambient warmth. The entire structure features precision milling. Teyo Brand Story The visionary collaboration between Auerbach and Sharf was developed with the aim of introducing a product capable of interpreting and enhancing the beauty of natural stone while maintaining its natural look, and maximizing its functionality in an innovative and unprecedented way. The concept of Teyo is born from the idea to serve as a new point of reference for architects, interior designers, and developers to help manifest projects of the highest caliber. Headquartered in Miami and working with a global clientele of private homeowners, architects, developers and design world professionals, Teyo cites Michelangelo, Rome and Greece as inspirations for utilizing millennia-old materials that serve as the foundation for high-end architecture and design projects. Teyo founder Matthew Auerbach has worked closely on exclusive projects with architecture and design behemoths Jean Nouvel and Zaha Hadid over his decades of experience. Teyo is founded upon the values of exceptional quality, relentless creativity, uncompromising craft and custom-tailored full service. The brand was conceived by the shared interest in rare materials with a design language following the discovery of artisans and quarries in Italy that uphold high standards of sustainability. Teyo presents a collection of signature pieces, including kitchens, vanities, bathtubs, bookshelves, dining and coffee tables, sideboards, chest of drawers, outdoor fireplaces and various stone textures, which can be customized and imagined by each client. Beyond the collection, Teyo’s in-house contract division can create bespoke items and solutions crafted for large-scale projects. Each of Teyo’s kitchen islands and counters are assembled by hand with dedicated craftsmanship overseen by Teyo’s prolific project managers. Signature Teyo products include Luminosa and Brisa kitchen, Jardin and Alba vanity, and the collection of outdoor coffee tables with fireplaces or ice baskets. “Teyo is built on our obsession with discovering the world’s most irreplicable and rare materials desired by our discerning clients around the world,” says, Artur Sharf, Creative Director of Teyo. “We look forward to infusing Italian raw materials used for millennia into projects of the utmost contemporary and future-forward designs, and to welcoming guests to experience our products firsthand in our showroom.” “We decided to develop our first Teyo collection in collaboration with YODEZEEN, an award-winning
BoSS®, part of ProDriven Global Brands (formerly known as WernerCo) and the UK’s number one mobile tower systems manufacturer, has unveiled an enhanced version of its leading low-level multi-application mobile podium, QuickPod with the launch of its brand-new 1500 model. The QuickPod 1500 builds on the innovation and ease-of-use that is central the QuickPod 1000, the original model launched in Spring 2024. The new product has a platform height of 1.5m, making it the ideal product for jobs that require additional height. Designed and manufactured in the UK, the BoSS QuickPod 1500 prioritises 360° safety for users, with key features including an auto-closing safety gate, guardrail, and pivoting stabilisers for ultimate solidity. As with the original QuickPod 1000, the QuickPod 1500 has been developed with user-friendliness front of mind and features an ergonomic two-piece design with a podium frame and integrated ladder section with platform, with a Toe Board Kit available as an added extra. The QuickPod 1500’s foldable system is quick to set-up and easy to transport and store, with its compact footprint ensuring comfortable use in confined spaces, while the integral ladder ensures easy ascending and descending. Manufactured in premium quality aluminium, the podium delivers a durable, hard-wearing solution suitable for use in a variety of applications. Boasting folded dimensions of 2.44m x 0.95m x 0.28m for ultimate compactness, the podium also offers platform dimensions of 0.55m x 0.59x and a standard working load of 150kg. What’s more, QuickPod 1500 is also tested and certified to the latest BS8620:2016 standard for safety. Mark Robson, Product Manager at BoSS, said: “We are delighted to be launching a new version of our market-leading QuickPod product, enabling users to ‘reach new heights’ with its enhanced height. “Building on the success of the original product, the new QuickPod 1500 gives users greater reach without compromising on the safety and functionality that is endemic to the range. Indeed, we believe the new product further demonstrates our commitment to manufacturing and supplying working at height equipment which combines practicality with safety – making the podium the number one product of choice for a wide range of applications.” To find out more about the BoSS range, please visit: www.bossaccesstowers.com/uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Tarmac Croxden sand and gravel quarry has reached new levels of efficiency and performance thanks to the installation of a cutting-edge washing and screening plant from Quarry Manufacturing & Supplies (QMS). This advancement marks a transformative step for the Staffordshire site, ensuring it can reliably meet growing demand for its high quality products while delivering enhanced production capabilities. Tarmac’s Croxden Staffordshire sand and gravel quarry supplies a range of high-quality aggregate products to builders, contractors and landscapers working on small, medium and large sized projects in Stoke-on-Trent and the surrounding areas. However, the Croxden quarry faced challenges with its existing plant, which was no longer capable of supporting the operation’s full potential. This led quarry management to seek a solution that would not only restore production but enhance productivity, accuracy and quality, cementing the quarry’s reputation for excellence. New 1.83m x 6m washing screen The Croxden quarry management team were already familiar with Coalville headquartered QMS, knowing of the support the company has provided to similar operations throughout the UK and Europe, delivering equipment, spare parts, aftermarket support and process advice. This gave the Tarmac team the confidence to contact QMS when seeking a solution. “We were pleased to be contacted and after assessing the situation we realised that we could not only rectify the situation, but also improve production and the quality of the end product,” explains QMS managing director Jonathan Beck, who adds, “We have expertise in the quarrying industry, and providing a washing screen for sand and gravel production is right up our street.” After site visits and finding out what exactly was required, the QMS team devised a solution for the quarry. “What we came up with incorporated what the quarry’s customers required from the sand and gravel produced there. We assessed the quarry and the logistics of the production process as well as what the end product would be used for. This resulted in us using one of our triple deck washing screens which is actually bigger in size than the one it replaced. Despite this, due to our engineers’ expertise and experience, it fitted precisely in with the existing plant and equipment. In fact, the new screen provides a 50% larger screening area,” adds Jonathan. High quality offering Screening accuracy and washing efficiency is now provided by the QMS 1.83m x 6m inclined triple deck screen (manufactured to BS EN 1009.-.2020), producing 20mm and 10mm concrete sand and building sand. Any oversize is recirculated for further crushing and then redirected into the screening/washing process. The screen is equipped with wet modular vibrating units, huck bolt fastened decks, along with full length stiffeners. Aiding production is a large feed box to help distribute material across the screen. The improved and renewed performance of the sand and gravel quarry should not come as a surprise to those familiar with the QMS offering and support. Since its foundation in the 1980s, QMS has developed a range of pre-designed modular plants designed to work with the most common crushing and screening applications in the quarrying, mining, demolition and recycling industries. The company has furthermore used its industry expertise to offer a bespoke design facility to meet customers’ exact requirements. All QMS’ offering is manufactured in the U.K. by QMS and have been designed to be mixed and matched interchangeably allowing hundreds of possible combinations. This concept provides a platform to not only meet current requirements but allows for upgrades in the future. All QMS plants, such as found at the Tarmac Croxden sand and gravel quarry, include all the required walkways, stairs, handrails and guarding and are pre-wired and tested prior to leaving the factory, therefore saving valuable installation time on site. The equipment can be erected on site in minimal time using basic tools and features an integrated plug and play PLC control system, operated by touch screen, allowing the plant to be up and running in a matter of hours. All equipment is supported by QMS’ aftersales service, with QMS engineers being experts in the installation, commissioning and servicing of all types of quarrying equipment. “QMS personal liaised with us many a time during design period and fabrication. This process gave QMS a good insight and understanding as to site requirements. This benefitted the site and Tarmac as a whole. The new screen QMS designed and installed has delivered in all aspects as build quality is good. The washing and the production of accurately sized material, efficiently and reliably, enables us keep supplying quality products to our customers. Aftermarket support is very good with QMS always being proactive, extremely helpful and professional in all aspects of their work. We look forward to continuing to work with them at Croxden on other areas of plant as well dealing with our requirements,” explains Jason Cotton, unit manager, Tarmac Croxden Quarry. “The sand and gravel quarry was a tricky problem, but the QMS team rose to the challenge. We proactively sought to understand the quarry’s real requirements, what the problems were, and what the customers required. This enabled our engineers to use their industry expertise to come up with the solution that is meeting production and quality targets. The plant’s efficiency is further enhanced as we also provide full aftermarket care including quality inspections, spare parts and servicing,” concludes Quarry Manufacturing & Supplies managing director Jonathan Beck. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Construction is one of the biggest industries around the world and for good reason. By throwing up new commercial buildings, homes, shops, freeways, and so much more, construction workers are the cornerstone of society. Unfortunately, construction accidents are extremely common and are often the foundation of a worker’s compensation claim due to this prevalence. Proactive safety measures and legal awareness are both required in order to make construction sites safer for all workers. An injured workforce is a nonproductive workforce and, on top of this, you certainly don’t want your business to have the reputation of one where workers suffer injuries. Learn the most common causes of construction accidents so that you can take the proper precautions to prevent them. Falls from Heights: The Leading Cause of Construction Injuries Without a doubt, falls from large heights are one of the most commonly seen construction accidents. With scaffolding, unprotected roofs, ladders, and other surfaces which require climbing being seen are construction sites, it only makes sense. Being severely injured from a fall doesn’t even require that much height either. In fact, just over 11% of fall fatalities in recent years occurred from heights between six to ten feet. Preventing a fall at a construction site is all about taking the proper steps to protect workers. This includes using fall protection systems such as harnesses and guardrails properly, while also conducting regular training for your employees on working at heights. You also need to properly inspect and maintain all equipment regularly to ensure things are in working condition. Struck-by Objects: A Persistent Hazard on Construction Sites Another major cause of injury on construction sites is objects, typically falling from above, striking workers. Falling tools, equipment, or materials in general are all examples of hazards that can lead to head or general bodily injury. This most often happens when other workers accidentally drop items or when machines such as cranes aren’t secured properly when being loaded and allow items to slip off. The best way to prevent your workers from being injured is to ensure they wear their protective gear when necessary. It’s also important to secure all tools and materials, which may involve using safety netting or barriers to contain those objects. Be aware that failing to secure your sites can result in fines from organizations such as OSHA. Caught-in or Between Accidents: Crushing and Entrapment Risks A particularly gruesome source of injury is caught-in or between incidents. With heavy machinery often being used at work sites, workers can accidentally get caught between equipment pieces leading to serious injury or death. Trench collapses, getting squished between machinery, or being slammed by collapsing walls are all examples. Preventing this issue is more challenging than some of the others, but can usually be done. Ensure that your construction sites all use proper shoring and excavation methods to secure walls and flooring. Additionally, all your machinery and equipment need to be maintained regularly and have safety checks performed on them. Your workers are also the first line of defense to injuries, so train them to recognize hazards so they can respond accordingly. Electrical Accidents: The Dangers of Live Wires and Faulty Equipment The fourth most common source of accidents on construction sites are electrical incidents. Live wires and faulty equipment lead to dangerous injuries stemming from electric shock, which makes this a particularly potent source of injury. Improper grounding of wiring or a failure to de-energize equipment are the two sub-issues that most commonly result in this problem. As mentioned before, and serving as the general theme, training your workers will be pivotal. Educate them on electrical safety and ensure that lockout and tagout procedures are used within your sites. Never miss a regular inspection of your electrical tools or an installation as well as both of these situations can lead to mistakes that cause injury. Hazardous Materials Exposure: The Silent Danger in Construction The source of injury that is perhaps most overlooked in the construction industry is exposure to hazardous materials. Asbestos, lead paint, and general toxic fumes are all common culprits of long-term respiratory injuries and disease in workers. Any unsafe handling or inadequate protection can lead to exposure, sometimes unknowingly, which is what makes this so dangerous. Conduct regular hazard assessments and provide appropriate PPE to your workers to avoid this. In addition to training your workers on how to handle any hazardous substances they come into contact with, you should also ensure there is proper ventilation of all work areas and that materials are disposed of safely. Hazardous materials are the silent danger in construction for a reason, so never hesitate to bring in professionals who can identify if there have been gaps in your protection. Building a culture of safety in construction At the end of the day, comprehensive safety measures, worker training, and consistent equipment inspections will catch most of the issues outlined above. Considering the importance of construction companies and the projects they work on, the last thing needed is a slowdown in production. With that said, worker safety always needs to be at the top of mind above all else. A culture of safety extends beyond surface-level injuries and requires you to implement sweeping policies that protect your employees at all levels. To keep your workers safe and comfortable, identify any and all risk factors at your work sites and strive to mitigate that risk. Doing so will allow your workers to perform to the best of their ability while also giving you peace of mind that there is a reduced chance of injury.
Smart cities are no longer just a futuristic concept—they are becoming a reality thanks to decentralized technologies like blockchain. With increasing urbanization, cities are under pressure to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance security. Traditional infrastructure often struggles with fragmented data, outdated processes, and inefficiencies, but blockchain offers a solution by simplifying urban management, increasing transparency, and automating complex processes. Decentralized Tech: The Backbone of Smart Cities From energy grids to transportation systems, blockchain is already shaping the future of digital infrastructure. And it’s not just in construction or finance—even sectors like online entertainment and digital transactions are leveraging decentralized systems to enhance security and improve user experience. For instance, some platforms operating outside traditional regulatory frameworks provide alternative digital experiences for users, such as Curacao casinos exempt from GamStop.These platforms are regulated in Curacao and leverage blockchain to offer provably fair gaming, instant payouts, and enhanced security, ensuring that players have full control over their funds without reliance on centralized authorities. Additionally, blockchain reduces transaction costs and speeds up withdrawals, making digital gaming more accessible and efficient. Just as blockchain enhances security and efficiency in digital transactions, its potential in smart city infrastructure is equally transformative. From automating urban services to securing public data, decentralized systems offer a more resilient and transparent framework for managing modern cities. A smart city integrates multiple digital systems to improve efficiency and sustainability. Blockchain plays a key role by ensuring that data is immutable, decentralized, and transparent, which reduces fraud and enhances trust in urban operations. One of blockchain’s most significant advantages in city planning is eliminating intermediaries. For instance, smart contracts—self-executing contracts with terms encoded into blockchain—can automate transactions and reduce delays in infrastructure projects. This removes bureaucratic bottlenecks and allows faster execution of public projects without unnecessary red tape. Another area where blockchain is making a difference is in construction and property management. Traditionally, real estate transactions and infrastructure projects involve multiple layers of verification, leading to high costs and inefficiencies. By tokenizing real estate assets and using blockchain-powered digital records, cities can streamline approvals, enhance property security, and eliminate fraud Energy Infrastructure: Smarter, Greener, More Efficient One example is the decentralized energy market, where blockchain enables peer-to-peer energy trading. Instead of relying solely on major utility companies, residents can sell excess solar energy directly to their neighbors, automating transactions with smart contracts. This reduces dependency on centralized grids and encourages sustainable energy consumption. Cities consume about 75% of the world’s energy, and managing energy resources efficiently is crucial for sustainability. Blockchain technology enhances energy grids by improving efficiency, reducing waste, and supporting renewable energy initiatives. Blockchain also improves energy consumption tracking. Using decentralized ledgers, residents and businesses can monitor their carbon footprint in real time, allowing them to optimize usage and reduce costs. For example, a blockchain-based microgrid system has been shown to increase profitability by 1.68% while reducing environmental impact by 0.97%. Water Management: A Blockchain-Powered Solution Water scarcity is a growing global challenge, and cities must innovate to manage water resources effectively. Blockchain plays a critical role in tracking water usage, monitoring pollution, and managing tradeable water rights. One of blockchain’s most promising applications in water management is real-time pollution tracking. By integrating IoT sensors with blockchain, cities can monitor water quality, detect pollution sources, and enforce regulations more effectively. Additionally, blockchain can facilitate fair water distribution through smart contracts for water trading. Countries like Australia and the U.S. have already begun experimenting with blockchain-powered water rights exchanges, ensuring that water resources are allocated more efficiently (Lambert, 2020). Transportation and Smart Mobility Traffic congestion costs cities billions each year in lost productivity and increased emissions. Blockchain technology can optimize urban mobility through intelligent traffic systems and autonomous vehicle networks. For example, in a blockchain-powered smart transportation system, vehicles communicate with traffic signals, parking systems, and other vehicles to reduce congestion and improve safety. By using decentralized ledgers, transportation networks can securely share real-time traffic data, enabling AI-driven solutions to optimize routes and reduce delays. Blockchain is also reshaping car ownership models. The rise of peer-to-peer (P2P) car-sharing platforms allows individuals to rent out their vehicles without the need for intermediaries. Blockchain ensures secure transactions and real-time tracking, reducing fraud and improving efficiency. Strengthening Public Trust Through Transparency Corruption and inefficiencies in government operations are major challenges in urban management. Blockchain addresses these issues by ensuring that all transactions, permits, and contracts are recorded on an immutable ledger, making them tamper-proof and publicly verifiable. For example, smart voting systems powered by blockchain can eliminate election fraud and improve voter turnout. Additionally, blockchain’s auditability ensures that public funds are used efficiently, reducing waste and increasing trust in governance. Final Thoughts: A More Connected, Resilient Future The integration of blockchain in urban infrastructure is more than just a technological upgrade—it’s a transformation in how cities operate. By decentralizing data, automating transactions, and enhancing security, blockchain technology ensures that smart cities are not only efficient but also transparent and future-ready. As adoption grows, we can expect more decentralized solutions in energy, transportation, and governance, paving the way for truly intelligent urban environments. Blockchain isn’t just shaping smart cities—it’s redefining the way we interact with the world around us.
As the global casino resorts continue to progress, developers seem to be stretching the limits of what can be done in terms of entertainment architecture. These ambitious projects, from the dazzling skyline of Las Vegas to the overpopulated shores of Macau, are changing the definition of luxury and innovation in the hospitality industry. Recent developments are not only showcases of architectural sophistication, but demonstrate as well the way integrated resorts change whole regions into premier entertainment spots. These projects feature state-of-the-art technologies, sustainable design practices, and luxurious compounds in order to engage and impress the increasingly demanding global clients. The Evolution of Modern Casino Construction The evolution of casino construction seems to be shifting as new projects started incorporating sustainable design practices and advanced technology. While traditional brick-and-mortar establishments still remains the backbone of the gambling business, the emergence of online casino platforms has revolutionized how physical venues approach construct design, resulting in spaces that offer exceptional experiences other than digital gaming. This blending of modern and traditional elements is characteristic of most casinos built today. Resorts World Las Vegas: A Study in Modern Luxury Resorts World Las Vegas, finished in 2021, exemplifies the current design philosophy of a casino. This project invested $4.3 billion and initiated several new innovations in construction methods. The development team employed sophisticated Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology to manage complex systems integration across the 3.5 million square feet of space. New methods of fabrication were pioneered in this project by prefabricating complete room modules, which were then sent to the construction site for installation. This reduced the construction duration as well as the environmental footprint. The Crystal Bay Casino Project: Innovation in Alpine Settings The construction of the Crystal Bay Casino development on Lake Tahoe North Shore is a pioneer in casino construction within environmentally fragile regions. The project demonstrates econometric snow load engineering and modern thermal efficiency systems for casino construction and their modifications in extreme conditions. The development team employed novel foundation solutions for the area’s considerable seismic activity while providing the necessary structural integrity for the gaming floor. Macau’s Grand Lisboa Palace: Eastern Architectural Excellence The Grand Lisboa Palace in Macau represents a project that achieved a balance between classical Chinese design and modern construction practices. The distinctive shape of the building required a specific manufacturing process that allowed each curved glass panel to be distinctively formed. Furthermore, the construction team utilized advanced vertical transportation systems, which incorporated exterior climbing platforms with the ability to adjust to the contours of the building. The Integration of Sustainable Practices The construction of casinos nowadays has adopted the sustainable approach, where different stakeholders in recent construction projects showcased remarkable innovations in energy efficiency and resource management. These new constructions are equipped with powerful HVAC units that feature heat recovery systems, allowing for both efficient energy use and precise environmental control crucial to gaming operations. Water recycling and smart control systems have become staples, proving the industry’s recognition of the need to be environmentally responsible. Engineering Challenges and Solutions Recent projects of building casinos have presented a number of unique engineering issues, especially within city limits. The construction of space-constrained underground gaming areas has brought about innovations in waterproofing and structural engineering. Construction crew supervisors have had to develop new vibration isolation management techniques to ensure the sensitive gaming equipment and the accurate leveling for the table games are protected. The Role of Technology in Modern Construction Technology is changing the way casinos are built. For instance, casinos are now constructed with the utmost efficiency and accuracy thanks to drones, IoT sensors, and other digital devices which help streamline the construction process. Building automation systems that are deployed during construction aid in advanced monitoring of the security, environmental conditions, and other operational systems, while also providing crucial data. Future Trends and Innovations As suggested by the upcoming casino construction projects, it is evident that the strategies for building and overall design are progressively changing. Some of these changes include an increased focus on modular construction styles, which, while still maintaining quality, can drastically decrease the duration of projects. Another trend that is becoming more common is the use of mixed-reality technologies during construction and operations, which allows easier completion of complicated designs. Conclusion A close review of modern casino construction projects clearly demonstrates a willingness to change and start using new construction technology and architectural design. Such changes help incorporate advanced technical features and also cater to modern consumer needs and policies. It will be increasingly common for new entertainment sites to be constructed with the mix of luxury, advanced design, green building, and user friendly environments, and the more the industry grows, the more it is likely for such changes to occur.
You really shouldn’t be surprised to learn Texas is home to more amusement parks than most people can keep track of. After all, this is the Lonestar State and everything is bigger here, including the number of rollercoasters. Since you can hop any number of rollercoasters just about anywhere in Texas, it isn’t surprising to learn that accident rates are rather high. There were over 1,200 ride-related injuries in 2021. So, this statistic doesn’t mean you should stay away from roller coasters. However, if you’re injured in a rollercoaster accident you may be eligible for recovering compensation. This means you need to know a bit about filing a premises liability claim. What is a Premises Liability Claim? Okay, the legal process can be confusing even before you get started. While your roller coaster accident falls under personal injury law, it’s just the start. Personal injury law is sort of like a giant umbrella covering different types of accident claims. When your accident occurs on someone else’s property, either public or private, you’re filing a premises liability claim. All property owners, managers, and occasionally tenants are responsible for keeping their premises free from all hazards. This includes hazards they know and should’ve known about. If a guest or visitor is injured on the property, chances are they can file a premises liability claim. Typically, property owners and managers are responsible for keeping the premises free from hazards. However, if the tenant is willfully ignoring potential hazards they may be liable for any damages. The simple fact that the tenant is paying a fee to occupy the property can make them liable. Every premises liability claim is unique so it’s best to work with an attorney when you’re trying to determine who’s liable for your damages. You Can’t Skip Proving Negligence Some states treat premises liability claims similar to strict product liability claims. Negligence is pretty much always implied in strict liability claims. This typically makes it a bit easier to prove your claim. Texas isn’t one of these states that presumes negligence in a premises liability claim. If you want your injury claim to make it past the first step in the legal process, proving the key elements of negligence is a must. Duty of Care The Lone Star state’s premises laws aren’t one-size-fits-all. Property owners and managers don’t owe everyone the same duty of care. This depends on the reason the individual is on the property. Yep, you owe a guest a different duty of care than a door-to-door salesperson. Let’s start with what duty of care means in the legal sense. It refers to the duty everyone owes to behave in a reasonable manner. One that doesn’t place others at risk. For example you owe your guests a duty of care to ensure the property is free from potential hazards. It can be anything from a loose board on the roller coaster’s platform to a spill on the grocery store floor. Okay, now on to the level of care property owners and managers typically owe to different types of individuals. Anyone invited onto the property like ticket holders at an amusement park is owed the highest level of care. This means regularly inspecting the property to ensure all hazards are removed or warning signs are in place. Invitees, these are people like guests to a party or grand opening, are owed the second highest level of care. Texas law requires property owners and managers to keep their premises reasonably safe. While trespassers are violating the law, they are still owed a minimal duty of care. Property owners and managers just need to take reasonable steps to prevent intentional injuries. In other words, you can’t purposefully leave a hazard out hoping to trip up a trespasser. Breach of Duty of Care You’ve established the property owner or manager owes you a duty of care. Now, it’s time to show they breached this duty. Thankfully, this element is a bit easier to show. If you’re classified as an invitee, you must show the premise’s owner and/or manager failed to keep the property free of hazards. This is usually done by collecting procedure manuals, along with inspection and repair reports. Surveillance footage can also be helpful, including any cameras that capture your image on the rollercoaster. Since licensees are usually owed the highest level of care, you’re probably going to need to submit a bit more evidence. This can include snapping pictures of the hazard and collecting witness statements. You may also need to interview employees to find out if the property owner knew about the hazard. Trespassers have a harder time proving both duty and breach of care. However, if a trespasser can show that the hazard is intentionally placed to cause harm they may have grounds for a premises liability claim. Causation You’ve made it to the third element of negligence and things tend to get a bit easier from here. This is when you show the breach of care is directly responsible for your injuries and other damages. Proving the dangerous conditions on the premises that caused your injuries usually means presenting plenty of testimony. Guess what, you get to give your testimony about the events that caused your accident. However even though you’re testifying under oath. It’s usually not enough to satisfy this requirement. You’re probably going to need to provide witness testimony. You must alsosubmit any video footage. Your medical records can also help support your injury claim. You may even need expert medical testimony. This requirement is common when injuries are severe. Damages This is the easiest element of negligence to prove, as long as you have your bills and receipts. You’ll present these as evidence supporting your listed damages. Your medical records and pay stubs may also be required. Typically, the evidence you submit is based on what you’re listing in the accident claim. Don’t Navigate A Roller Coaster Accident Claim in Texas By Yourself Premises liability laws can leave you scratching your head.
