April 17, 2025
Komatsu Smart Construction announces compatibility with suite of leading tilt rotator specialists

Komatsu Smart Construction announces compatibility with suite of leading tilt rotator specialists

Komatsu Europe has announced its 3D Machine Guidance system is now fully compatible with industry-leading tilt rotators brands, including Engcon, Steelwrist, Rototilt, and OilQuick. This milestone ensures that companies and their operators can achieve greater efficiency, precision, and versatility on the job site, regardless of their preferred tilt rotator brand.

Read More »
How Metal Table Legs Instantly Upgrade Any Space

How Metal Table Legs Instantly Upgrade Any Space

When it comes to transforming a room’s look and feel, the smallest changes often make the biggest difference. Swapping out furniture or updating a room’s color scheme can breathe new life into a tired space. However, one upgrade gaining popularity for its sleek style and subtle impact is the addition

Read More »
How to Collaborate Across Construction and Energy Teams for Smarter Builds

How to Collaborate Across Construction and Energy Teams for Smarter Builds

Blueprints are no longer just about bricks and beams—they’re about batteries, bandwidth, and building intelligence. With energy systems now deeply woven into the fabric of modern construction, smarter builds demand smarter teamwork. When construction crews and energy experts collaborate from the ground up, the results are more resilient, efficient, and

Read More »
Latest Issue
Issue 328 : May 2025

April 17, 2025

Komatsu Smart Construction announces compatibility with suite of leading tilt rotator specialists

Komatsu Smart Construction announces compatibility with suite of leading tilt rotator specialists

Komatsu Europe has announced its 3D Machine Guidance system is now fully compatible with industry-leading tilt rotators brands, including Engcon, Steelwrist, Rototilt, and OilQuick. This milestone ensures that companies and their operators can achieve greater efficiency, precision, and versatility on the job site, regardless of their preferred tilt rotator brand. Komatsu’s Smart Construction 3D Machine Guidance provides real-time 2D and 3D guidance to enhance earthmoving precision, reduce rework, and optimize workflows. The system can be retrofitted on excavators ranging from 13 to 120 tons, including both Komatsu and non-Komatsu equipment. As an IoT solution within the Smart Construction suite, it collects as-built data, which is visualized in a 3D digital twin within the Smart Construction Dashboard. This provides actionable insights into project progress.  Additionally, it includes a free Remote license for the lifetime of the system, allowing seamless remote file transfers and troubleshooting. Finally, payload information is automatically reported to Smart Construction Fleet, improving operational tracking and machine productivity. “This advancement empowers operators to move materials with even greater speed and accuracy,” says Bart Vingerhoets, Senior Commercial Manager at Komatsu Smart Construction. “With over 80 percent of excavators in Northern Europe already equipped with tilt rotators as standard, we are committed to evolving our digital tools in line with market demands, ensuring our customers have access to the best technology available.” Previously, 3D Machine Guidance was only compatible with tilt buckets that swung left to right, however with this breakthrough update, excavator buckets can now rotate a full 360 degrees, unlocking unprecedented control and efficiency on-site. Krister Blomgren, CEO of Engcon, is pleased about the collaboration, recognizing the benefits it will bring to mutual customers. He said: “We are looking forward to seeing how our customers can benefit from the integration of our tilt rotators with Smart Construction 3D Machine Guidance for a more efficient job site.” As technology continues to evolve, compatibility will play an increasingly pivotal role in the digital transformation of the industry, fostering innovation and accelerating the adoption of smart technology. Stefan Stockhaus, CEO of Steelwrist added: “With a tiltrotator on the excavator, the Komatsu customers get a massive efficiency improvement and even more so with the Smart Construction Machine Guidance system.” To find out more, please click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
FIS partners with The Skills Centre to tackle Skills Shortage in the Finishes and Interiors Sector

FIS partners with The Skills Centre to tackle Skills Shortage  in the Finishes and Interiors Sector

The Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) is delighted to announce its new partnership with The Skills Centre to deliver essential training and support for individuals pursuing careers in the finishes and interiors sector. This collaboration aims to address the growing skills shortage in construction, specifically in this sector, which faces a critical demand for skilled workers. According to the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), the construction sector will require an additional 251,500 workers by 2028. Furthermore, 61% of FIS members report struggling to find skilled workers, highlighting the urgency of this partnership to  address the skills gap. As the UK continues to invest in reaching its Net Zero targets, retrofit projects will increase, driving continued demand for insulation and drylining skills as the 2050 deadline approaches. Through this collaboration, The Skills Centre will deliver a series of Bootcamps designed to provide individuals with the hands-on training and industry-specific knowledge necessary to kickstart their careers in the finishes and interiors sector. These intensive programmes will bridge the gap between talent supply and employer demand, offering practical experience and career support to participants. The first offering will be an Introduction to Insulation and Drylining course, which is a free, eight-week programme. Successful participants will earn a Level 2 qualification. The training and qualifications* will include: -Cskills Level 1 Health & Safety -CITB CSCS Health & Safety Environment (Green Card) -Level 2 Understanding Domestic Retrofit -Level 2 Removing Non-Hazardous Waste in the Workplace (Blue Card) -Environmental awareness in the construction industry -Introduction to Interior Systems -Introduction to Passive Fire In addition, a new Drylining Apprenticeship will be available for pre-screened local candidates who have come through funded Bootcamps. This specialist training will cover Partition Walls, MF Ceilings, Grid Ceilings, Shaft Walls, Metsec Installation, Rainscreen Cladding and Passive Fire Protection. Employers in the finishes and interiors sector are encouraged to get involved and support the initiative by providing interview opportunities or offering work experience placements with a view to future employment. The initiative aims to support workforce development, create opportunities for career growth, and enhance the talent pipeline within the sector. Commenting on the initiative, FIS Head of Skills Beena Nana, said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with The Skills Centre to enhance the support we provide to our members while tackling the growing skills shortages in our industry. This partnership enables us to combine resources and expertise, fostering opportunities for development, training, and growth, which will ultimately benefit our members and the broader community by addressing critical workforce challenges.” Sam Downton, Director at The Skills Centre added: “Our new partnership with FIS marks a significant step forward for the interior systems and drylining sector. This part of the industry plays a critical role in shaping the internal environments where we live, work, and learn—but it continues to face skills shortages and often flies under the radar as a long-term, rewarding career option. “Joining forces with FIS brings together their sector leadership and our expertise in delivering high-quality, hands-on training. Central to this partnership are our specialist Bootcamps, which are imperative for attracting new talent into the industry. They provide a direct route for individuals—many of whom are new to construction—to gain essential skills, site experience, and the confidence to move straight into employment. “For employers, these Bootcamps open up access to a wider, work-ready talent pool and offer a practical solution to workforce gaps. Together with FIS, we’re not only building stronger pathways into the sector, but also helping to create a more sustainable, inclusive, and skilled future for interior systems and drylining across London and Essex”. Employers can also attend planned visits to the following training centres to meet candidates and see the training in action: If you are an employer interested in attending any of these sessions or would like to support this initiative, please contact Beena Nana at beenanana@thefis.org or call 0121 707 0077. For employers interested in finding out more about the Bootcamps and how they can get involved, a dedicated webinar will provide all the information needed to get started. *Actual qualifications delivered may vary based on employer demand at the time of delivery. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Why Pickup Mounted Platforms Are a Game-Changer for Modern Arborists

Why Pickup Mounted Platforms Are a Game-Changer for Modern Arborists

As a certified arborist, any job you sign up for at a height is risky. You’ve seen it all by now; colleagues falling from dangerously high heights, sudden platform movements that make you lose balance, adverse weather conditions, equipment failures, and in worse cases, electrocution of workers working near power lines. If your daily work schedule requires you to work from heights up to 75 meters and bring down full-grown trees that weigh a ton or more, a pickup truck cherry picker for arborist will make your work environment safer and more efficient. Pick-up mounted platforms are designed to perform many applications. Investing in one will be an invaluable asset for you for many years to come.  Here are four reasons to get yourself a pick-up mounted platform in 2025. The biggest flex of getting a pickup-mounted platform as a modern-day arborist is mobility. Compared to the traditional stationary cherry pickups, these pickup-mounted cherry pickers are a game changer. You can drive straight to the work site without hiring a separate towing equipment.  If you work in several sites in a day, easily drive your pick-up on a public highway. This is because the pickup-mounted cherry pickers are registered road vehicles. You do not need additional movement orders from the local government office to move your pickup-mounted cherry picker.  Once your task is completed, you can drive off from the site. This minimizes disruptions and delays.  Did you know that pickup cherry pickers are available for rental projects? If you need a pickup on the go to impress your new client or to get the job done faster, you can always rent out a Toyota Hilux or an Isuzu Dmax and maintain maximum performance every day, everywhere your job takes you.  If you’ve ever had to work up a tree using a rope and prune with one hand while holding on to dear life with the other, you know how risky and tiring it can be. A pickup-mounted platform equipped with advanced safety features is the perfect solution for you. Mobile machinery with impressive reach and stability will enable you to safely work on elevated sites with precision without the fear of falling dangerously.  Whether you need to trim trees, sort out an emergency after a storm, or install signage, a pickup-mounted cherry picker will get the job done. If you are in Kettering, Northamptonshire, NN16 8UN, UK, CPL is just a phone call away. You can consult with them on which pickup cherry picker is the best for your current projects, and they will advise you accordingly.  Navigating across multiple job sites in a day can be challenging especially if you need to carry tools as well. When you invest in a cherry picker, you can easily carry all your tools and work partners and transport them with ease from one worksite to the next. The pickup cherry picker can handle multiple applications. This is why it is popular among utility providers, telecoms, and arborists. You can use it to prune and trim trees today and tomorrow? undertake a new project in the entertainment industry. That’s how versatile these pickup trucks are.    Pickup-mounted platforms are a smart investment for every modern arborist. You will save time and money and give yourself the chance to work in a safe and comfortable environment no matter how high the task requires you to go. 

Read More »
How Metal Table Legs Instantly Upgrade Any Space

How Metal Table Legs Instantly Upgrade Any Space

When it comes to transforming a room’s look and feel, the smallest changes often make the biggest difference. Swapping out furniture or updating a room’s color scheme can breathe new life into a tired space. However, one upgrade gaining popularity for its sleek style and subtle impact is the addition of metal table legs. Whether in modern lofts or cozy country homes, metal legs reshape how tables blend with the décor, adding a touch of industrial charm, elegance, and strength. The Appeal of Metal Legs in Modern Design Interior design trends have evolved from purely decorative to a fusion of form and function. Metal table legs exemplify this shift. Clean lines, bold finishes, and a minimalist vibe instantly elevate any table’s aesthetic and structural appeal. Unlike traditional wooden legs, which can appear bulky or dated, metal legs bring a streamlined and contemporary energy that complements a wide range of interior styles. From Rustic to Industrial: They Fit Any Style One of the biggest perks of choosing metal table legs is their versatility. For a rustic farmhouse look, black matte steel paired with a reclaimed wood tabletop creates a stunning contrast. Conversely, if you prefer a more industrial or urban loft aesthetic, brushed stainless steel or raw iron legs can add a rugged and edgy flair. These legs are incredibly adaptable, allowing designers and homeowners to craft unique pieces that reflect their tastes. A Strength You Can Rely On While their visual appeal is undeniable, metal table legs offer unmatched durability. These legs are designed to support heavy surfaces—think thick butcher blocks, stone, or concrete—for both stability and longevity. They resist warping, cracking, and damage from humidity, which makes them ideal for living rooms and offices, kitchens, and outdoor settings where moisture levels fluctuate. Space-Enhancing Design Metal legs don’t just look good—they enhance spatial flow. Their open, often angular designs allow for more visual breathing room, especially in smaller or crowded areas. Unlike chunky wooden bases, metal legs create a lighter footprint, letting light and energy pass through the space without interruption. This simple feature can instantly make a room feel larger and more inviting. Easy Pairings with Any Tabletop Another reason metal legs have become a favorite in design circles is their ability to pair with virtually any tabletop. From glass and wood to marble and concrete, the clean look of metal legs makes them the ideal foundation for custom furniture pieces. Whether you’re designing a statement dining table or a subtle side table, metal legs perfectly balance boldness and simplicity. DIY-Friendly and Designer-Approved Thanks to the rise of custom furniture and DIY culture, metal table legs are now more accessible than ever. Homeowners and hobbyists can find pre-fabricated legs in countless shapes, sizes, and finishes, ready to be installed without needing advanced tools or carpentry skills. At the same time, interior designers appreciate how these legs can turn a basic table into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that aligns perfectly with a room’s vision. A Smart Investment for Longevity and Style Upgrading with metal table legs isn’t just about short-term aesthetics—it’s a long-term investment. These legs are designed to withstand time and trends, allowing furniture to remain relevant and beautiful for years. And because they’re so easy to maintain and clean, they look as fresh as the day they were installed. Metal table legs are a game-changer for effortlessly enhancing your home’s aesthetic. They offer a powerful combination of modern style, durability, and versatility that fits seamlessly into any interior. These legs provide the perfect foundation, whether aiming for a bold industrial vibe or a subtly minimalist look. With options like Flowyline table legs, you can add elegance and craftsmanship to your furniture. Ultimately, upgrading with metal legs isn’t just about design—creating a space that feels fresh, functional, and uniquely yours—vision.

Read More »
How to Collaborate Across Construction and Energy Teams for Smarter Builds

How to Collaborate Across Construction and Energy Teams for Smarter Builds

Blueprints are no longer just about bricks and beams—they’re about batteries, bandwidth, and building intelligence. With energy systems now deeply woven into the fabric of modern construction, smarter builds demand smarter teamwork. When construction crews and energy experts collaborate from the ground up, the results are more resilient, efficient, and future-ready structures. Prioritising Collaboration for Energy Storage Integration Collaboration between construction and energy teams is essential for integrating energy storage solutions like BESS battery storage systems seamlessly into building designs. When both teams work together from the start, they can determine the optimal placement and size of the storage systems, ensuring efficient use of space and resources. This joint effort reduces the risk of costly adjustments down the line and ensures that energy systems align with the building’s long-term goals. Early coordination allows for smoother integration of energy storage technologies and supports the building’s overall energy resilience. Establishing a Common Digital Language To streamline communication between construction and energy teams, adopting a shared digital platform is essential. Building Information Modelling (BIM) allows both teams to visualise and manage designs in real-time, preventing potential clashes before they happen. Through BIM, energy systems can be designed and integrated into the building’s infrastructure seamlessly, ensuring that storage units, electrical systems, and renewable energy technologies are all considered together. Cloud-based tools facilitate collaboration, with updates available to both teams at any stage, ensuring everyone stays on the same page throughout the build. Aligning on Regulations and Incentives Energy regulations and building codes are evolving rapidly, especially when it comes to sustainability and energy efficiency. Close collaboration between construction and energy teams ensures that all legal requirements are met and that the project is positioned to take advantage of any financial incentives for clean energy solutions. This alignment on regulatory compliance—whether it’s local grid connections, carbon reduction targets, or green building certifications—helps streamline the permitting process and minimises delays. Moreover, joint knowledge of available incentives can unlock opportunities for additional funding or tax rebates, making the overall project more cost-effective. Integrating Smart Technology for Long-Term Efficiency The integration of smart technologies is key to enhancing a building’s energy efficiency. Smart meters, IoT sensors, and advanced load management systems require careful planning and coordination between both teams during the construction phase. These technologies allow the building to monitor energy usage, optimise heating and cooling, and balance energy loads automatically. With renewable energy generation systems like solar panels or wind turbines becoming increasingly common in modern builds, ensuring that smart technology is in place to manage the energy they produce is essential. A coordinated approach ensures that these systems not only work seamlessly but also contribute to the building’s long-term sustainability goals. Final Thoughts: A Culture of Co-Creation The future of smarter builds lies in fostering a culture of collaboration from the very beginning. Whether it’s integrating BESS battery storage or aligning on regulatory standards, bringing construction and energy teams together results in buildings that are not only sustainable but also more cost-effective and resilient. These cross-disciplinary partnerships are what will drive innovation in the industry and help create structures that are both adaptive and prepared for future energy challenges.

Read More »