Britain’s warehouse and logistics sector is facing a decade-defining challenge, as new analysis warns that defence spending will create unprecedented demand for additional storage and distribution capacity across the country. According to research from Savills, the UK will require up to three million sq m of new warehouse space by
As the waters of the North Sea whip against steel platforms, a familiar debate surges once again. BP has confirmed it will restart operations at the Murlach oil field, located 120 miles east of Aberdeen, bringing it back online more than two decades after its closure. Supporters hail the decision
Despite the seismic shift towards hybrid working, the physical office is far from obsolete. In fact, a new global survey from workplace experience experts ISS suggests the opposite: while remote work is here to stay, the modern office still plays a vital role in how we connect, collaborate and thrive
The UK mortgage landscape continues to evolve, presenting both challenges and opportunities for prospective homebuyers. With the housing market showing varied regional performance, estate agents in Yorkshire report sustained interest from first-time buyers and those looking to remortgage, despite the complex economic environment. Understanding current mortgage trends is crucial for anyone
One of the world’s global engineering consultancies is moving into its new ‘home for big ideas’ in central London, after a 12-month transformation into a model of excellence showcasing its multi-disciplinary and sustainability capabilities to clients from across the world. Growing from 510 employees in 2019 to 720 in 2024,
Global engineering consultancy Arup has officially opened its new Midlands base – one of its five largest global hubs – at Paradise Birmingham’s One Centenary Way, welcoming clients and contacts to mark the occasion. Arup was a major contractor to Birmingham City Council supporting it to deliver the Birmingham 2022
Investing in real estate and property development has long been considered one of the most stable and profitable avenues for growing wealth. Unlike volatile assets like stocks, real estate offers a tangible, long-term investment that can yield multiple forms of return, from rental income to capital appreciation. But how can
Perfect Workwear – for less than perfect days. Snickers Workwear’s new range of lightweight Mid-layers are a Fusion of style and performance – built for active work in the Autumn. Crafted for full flexibility on site and optimal comfort and built for active work, they’re fully flexible and can be
Building Information Modelling (BIM) has been a part of the construction industry since the 1970s, but it wasn’t until the early 2000s that it gained significant traction. Since then, BIM has continuously evolved, enhancing efficiency, communication, and productivity across the industry. Now, with the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), BIM
The Asticus London building, a striking ten-storey landmark, has undergone a remarkable transformation. Originally constructed in 2006, the office building features a stunning new reception, business lounge, landscaped terrace, breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views, luxurious end-of-trip facilities in the basement, and the addition of four new Stannah passenger lifts, one of
Britain’s warehouse and logistics sector is facing a decade-defining challenge, as new analysis warns that defence spending will create unprecedented demand for additional storage and distribution capacity across the country. According to research from Savills, the UK will require up to three million sq m of new warehouse space by 2032 to support the expansion of the nation’s defence manufacturing base. The figure, equivalent to more than 400 football pitches, highlights the scale of demand expected as government investment flows into the sector. The forecast follows Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s commitment to increase the UK’s annual defence budget by £40 billion by 2035. Major contractors such as BAE Systems and Rolls-Royce are preparing to expand operations to deliver on both domestic and allied commitments, creating a ripple effect through the wider warehouse and logistics market. To meet demand, the UK would need to deliver an average of 429,000 sq m of additional warehouse space every year until 2032. This comes on top of the long-term annual average of 650,000 sq m, placing the sector under significant pressure at a time when development is already constrained by high construction costs, expensive financing, and limited land availability. Prime warehouse rents are already on the rise, particularly in the South East. Around the M25, rents have nearly doubled since 2019, climbing from £215 per sq m to £398 per sq m in 2025. Analysts warn that defence sector expansion, combined with sustained e-commerce growth and reshoring strategies, could push rents higher still, placing further strain on occupiers across multiple industries. Andrew Blennerhassett, associate director in Savills’ industrial and logistics research team, commented: “Defence investment has the potential to reshape the UK warehouse market in a very short period of time. Policymakers must ensure land supply and planning approvals keep pace with demand. Otherwise, capacity constraints will quickly become a brake on both industrial output and national resilience.” The UK warehouse market has already seen major structural shifts since the pandemic, as manufacturers, retailers and distributors moved to secure greater domestic capacity. Defence now represents an additional layer of demand, with contractors and their supply chains expected to require new-build facilities, large-scale storage hubs, and modernised logistics parks. Developers and investors are responding. Sirius Real Estate, which holds more than £2 billion of warehouse assets in the UK and Germany, has brought in a former British Army major general as a strategic adviser to help capture opportunities created by the expansion of the defence sector. Andrew Coombs, chief executive of Sirius and a former Grenadier Guards officer, said: “Defence has the potential to become one of the most important drivers of demand for warehouse and logistics space over the next decade. These requirements will not only focus on capacity but also on quality, with an emphasis on resilience, efficiency and futureproofing. For landlords, the fact that much of this demand is ultimately government-backed adds a unique level of stability.” The scale of investment expected from defence contractors is likely to reshape warehouse development patterns across the UK. Regions with established defence and aerospace industries, including the North West, South West and Midlands, are forecast to see the strongest uplift in demand, with ripple effects across national distribution networks. However, analysts caution that unless the UK overcomes persistent barriers around planning and land availability, the challenge of creating sufficient warehouse capacity could become acute. With occupier expectations increasingly centred on ESG standards, energy efficiency and connectivity, there is also pressure on developers to deliver facilities that meet the sustainability benchmarks now standard in other sectors. For warehouse and logistics operators, the convergence of defence spending, e-commerce demand and reshoring strategies is set to drive sustained competition for prime space. As the market prepares for what could be a transformative decade, the role of the warehouse sector in underpinning both economic growth and national security is likely to become more visible than ever before. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
As the waters of the North Sea whip against steel platforms, a familiar debate surges once again. BP has confirmed it will restart operations at the Murlach oil field, located 120 miles east of Aberdeen, bringing it back online more than two decades after its closure. Supporters hail the decision as a lifeline for domestic energy production, while critics denounce it as a regressive step at a time when the climate clock is ticking. The Murlach field was originally mothballed in 2004 after being deemed uneconomic. However, advances in drilling technology, combined with fresh investment, have altered the equation. BP says the site holds around 20 million barrels of recoverable oil and 600 million cubic metres of gas — enough to sustain production for roughly eleven years. Initial output could reach 20,000 barrels of oil and 17 million cubic feet of gas each day. To the company, this is a strategic revival of a known resource that avoids the lengthy approval process faced by entirely new projects. To many environmental campaigners, it is proof that the fossil fuel industry is still intent on extracting every drop possible, even as the impacts of global warming intensify. The political backdrop is complex. The current government has pledged to halt new licensing for oil and gas exploration, citing the need for a “fair and orderly” transition towards renewable energy. However, it has also stated it will honour existing licences, including Murlach’s. The stance attempts to balance two competing pressures: meeting climate targets on one hand, and maintaining energy security and jobs on the other. This balancing act is not without contradiction. While ministers point to record investments in offshore wind and carbon capture technology, they also concede that the UK will still require oil and gas for decades to come. The independent Climate Change Committee has forecast that between 13 and 15 billion barrels will be needed by 2050. The challenge is where that supply will come from — and whether it should come from domestic waters or overseas imports. Supporters of the Murlach restart argue that extracting what remains in the North Sea makes strategic sense. They highlight that domestic production is subject to higher environmental standards than imports and that local output supports thousands of skilled jobs in coastal communities. Industry groups also warn that overly restrictive policies could push investment elsewhere, eroding the UK’s position as a player in global energy markets. Yet the numbers paint a sobering picture. Output from the North Sea has been declining for a quarter of a century. Oil production has dropped sharply in recent years, and gas volumes are also slipping. The North Sea Transition Authority projects an annual fall of about 7 per cent for oil and 12 per cent for gas, with a 90 per cent overall decline by 2050. Much of the easily accessed resource has already been tapped. What remains often comes from smaller, more technically challenging fields like Murlach. For environmentalists, the issue is not whether the oil can be reached but whether it should be. They argue that continuing to invest in fossil fuel infrastructure locks the UK into carbon emissions for decades, jeopardising climate goals and exposing the country to the volatility of global oil markets. Their prescription is clear: accelerate the pivot to renewable energy sources, invest in green jobs, and support communities through the economic transition away from oil and gas. This divergence of opinion is not new, but it is becoming sharper. On one side are those who see the North Sea as a dwindling but still valuable asset, a means of cushioning the UK against supply shocks and geopolitical instability. On the other are those who see it as a relic of the past — one that risks distracting from the urgent work of building a zero-carbon future. International voices have added fuel to the fire. Former US President Donald Trump, during a recent visit to Scotland, criticised UK tax policy on North Sea oil, describing the reserves as a “treasure chest” being squandered through excessive levies. His remarks drew predictable applause from some in the industry and scorn from others who see such rhetoric as at odds with climate realities. Meanwhile, the renewable sector continues to grow. Large-scale wind projects, such as the recently approved Berwick Bank development, promise to generate enough electricity to power millions of homes. Supporters of these projects note that wind, unlike oil, will never run out — and its costs have plummeted over the past decade. However, large renewable schemes take years to plan and build, and they cannot yet provide the same constant output as fossil fuels without significant advances in storage technology. The tension between these timelines — the urgency of climate action versus the slower pace of infrastructure change — lies at the heart of the Murlach debate. Critics fear that each new or revived oil field pushes the energy transition further into the future, creating a dependency that will be harder to break. Proponents counter that an abrupt halt to domestic production would not reduce demand but simply shift it to other countries, often with higher carbon footprints and fewer environmental safeguards. In reality, the outcome may be shaped less by moral clarity and more by market forces. If global oil prices remain high, even marginal fields could become attractive again. If renewable energy continues to become cheaper and more reliable, the economic case for large-scale fossil fuel investment will weaken further. For now, Murlach is set to join a small but growing list of North Sea fields brought back from the brink. Whether this represents prudent resource management or a stubborn refusal to change course depends on one’s vantage point. What is clear is that the UK is at a crossroads — not just in terms of energy supply, but in deciding what kind of energy future it truly wants. If the goal is to lead in climate action while maintaining energy security, the path ahead will require more than simply
Despite the seismic shift towards hybrid working, the physical office is far from obsolete. In fact, a new global survey from workplace experience experts ISS suggests the opposite: while remote work is here to stay, the modern office still plays a vital role in how we connect, collaborate and thrive at work—if it’s designed with intent. Drawing insights from nearly 11,000 office workers across multiple continents, the study reveals that 81% of professionals now operate in a hybrid model. Working from home one or two days per week is the most common set-up, allowing employees to strike a better work-life balance, reduce commuting time and gain more control over their daily routines. But the office, it seems, still has a heartbeat. Seventy-one per cent of respondents said the physical workplace remains important to them—though not for the reasons one might expect. Productivity, while essential, isn’t the sole draw. Instead, the office is prized for the human experiences it enables: spontaneous conversations, shared learning, and a break from the solitude of home working. According to the data, 99% of workers identify specific advantages to office attendance. Chief among them are social interaction, informal knowledge exchange, and simply the act of ‘getting out and about’. Yet one somewhat unexpected finding stood out: food is a major factor. From well-thought-out breakfast offerings to quality coffee and healthy lunch options, curated food experiences are now seen as key motivators for returning to the workplace. It’s here that ISS introduces the idea of the purpose-driven office—a reimagining of the workplace not as a default location, but as a destination in its own right. When asked to picture their ideal workspace, over half of respondents described environments that directly support how they work: ergonomic chairs, height-adjustable desks, well-integrated technology and flexible areas for collaboration. A further 25% focused on how the office makes them feel, citing features that support physical and mental wellbeing—natural light, quiet zones, greenery, and areas to decompress. The findings highlight a truth many organisations are now grappling with: the office must earn its place in people’s lives. It needs to provide more than just a desk—it must offer experiences, inspiration, and the kind of human connection that simply doesn’t happen over Zoom. Carl-Fredrik Bjor, Group Commercial & Revenue Officer at ISS, sums it up: “Today’s workforce has high expectations. While it’s not always possible to meet every request, it’s essential that businesses understand what motivates and engages their people. Often, it’s the smaller, everyday experiences—great coffee, thoughtful design, the buzz of collaboration—that have the most lasting impact.” The purpose-driven workplace is not about gimmicks or empty gestures. It’s about creating spaces that are both functional and fulfilling—where people feel seen, supported, and energised to do their best work. In a world where home is always an option, the office must become something more: a place people choose to be. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The UK mortgage landscape continues to evolve, presenting both challenges and opportunities for prospective homebuyers. With the housing market showing varied regional performance, estate agents in Yorkshire report sustained interest from first-time buyers and those looking to remortgage, despite the complex economic environment. Understanding current mortgage trends is crucial for anyone planning to enter the property market or refinance their existing home. Interest Rate Environment The mortgage market has adapted to the higher interest rate environment, with lenders developing innovative products to help buyers navigate these challenges. Understanding how interest rates affect monthly payments and overall affordability has become increasingly important for prospective homeowners. The shift in the market has led to significant changes in how buyers approach their mortgage decisions, particularly when choosing between fixed and variable rates. Longer-term fixed-rate mortgages have gained considerable popularity as buyers seek stability in their monthly payments. The security of knowing exactly what you’ll pay each month for five, seven, or even ten years has become increasingly attractive, despite the typically higher initial rates compared to variable products. However, this security often comes with stricter early repayment charges, requiring careful consideration of future plans before committing to a long-term fix. First-Time Buyer Solutions The journey to homeownership remains challenging for first-time buyers, but various initiatives continue to provide support. Government schemes have evolved to meet changing market conditions, offering different paths to property ownership. These solutions range from innovative savings programs to shared ownership opportunities, making homeownership more accessible to those struggling with the traditional deposit requirements. The deposit landscape has also shifted, with lenders taking a more nuanced approach to different buyer situations. While the traditional expectation of a 10-20% deposit remains common, there are now more options for those with smaller deposits, particularly for professional buyers or those with family support. These alternatives have opened up new possibilities for first-time buyers who might otherwise have struggled to enter the market. Green Mortgages and Sustainability Environmental considerations have become increasingly central to mortgage lending, reflecting broader societal shifts toward sustainability. Lenders are actively encouraging energy-efficient home purchases and improvements through preferential rates and additional borrowing options for eco-improvements. This trend reflects both consumer demand and regulatory pressure, making green credentials an increasingly important factor in mortgage decisions. The impact of energy efficiency on property values and running costs has made green mortgages particularly attractive. Lenders are offering incentives for properties with high EPC ratings and providing additional funds for improvements that reduce energy consumption. This approach benefits both the environment and homeowners’ long-term costs, making it an increasingly important consideration in mortgage selection. Regional Variations and Digital Innovation The mortgage market shows significant regional variations, with products and lending criteria often tailored to local market conditions. This regional approach recognizes the diverse nature of the UK property market, with different challenges and opportunities across the country. Lenders have developed specific products for various regions, acknowledging the different property types and price points prevalent in different areas. Technology continues to transform the mortgage application process, making it more efficient and accessible. Digital platforms now handle everything from initial applications to property valuations, streamlining what was traditionally a paper-heavy process. Open banking has revolutionized affordability assessments, while digital identity verification has simplified the documentation process. These innovations have made the mortgage journey smoother while maintaining necessary security measures. Specialist Lending and Remortgaging The mortgage market has become increasingly sophisticated in addressing non-standard situations. Self-employed individuals, contract workers, and those seeking later-life lending now have more options available to them. Lenders have developed more flexible approaches to income assessment and lending criteria, recognizing that traditional employment patterns are changing. Remortgaging remains a significant part of the market, with homeowners actively seeking to optimize their borrowing costs. The process has become more streamlined, with many lenders offering existing customers competitive product transfer options. Additional borrowing for home improvements or debt consolidation continues to be popular, with lenders offering various solutions to meet these needs. Affordability and Market Outlook Lenders continue to take a thorough approach to affordability assessment, considering various aspects of applicants’ financial situations. The assessment process has evolved to consider different types of income and financial commitments more holistically. This comprehensive approach helps ensure sustainable lending while providing opportunities for those with strong financial foundations. Looking ahead, several factors are likely to influence mortgage trends. Economic conditions and interest rate movements will continue to play a crucial role, while technological advancement and environmental policies may shape future lending criteria. The interaction between housing supply, demand, and regulatory requirements will also influence how the mortgage market develops. Navigating the Market Successfully Success in today’s mortgage market requires careful preparation and a thorough understanding of available options. Starting preparation early is crucial, giving time to optimise credit scores, save consistently, and gather necessary documentation. Understanding the full range of costs involved, from arrangement fees to stamp duty, helps avoid surprises and ensures better financial planning. Professional advice has become increasingly valuable in navigating the complex mortgage landscape. Advisors can help identify the most suitable products, understand the implications of different choices, and manage the application process effectively. Their expertise can be particularly valuable when dealing with non-standard situations or trying to optimize borrowing costs. The mortgage market in 2025 continues to evolve, adapting to changing economic conditions and buyer needs. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, moving home, or looking to remortgage, success lies in understanding current trends and preparing thoroughly. While the process may seem daunting, the range of options available usually means there are solutions for well-prepared buyers. As the market continues to develop, staying informed and seeking professional guidance when needed will help ensure the best possible outcomes in your property financing journey.
One of the world’s global engineering consultancies is moving into its new ‘home for big ideas’ in central London, after a 12-month transformation into a model of excellence showcasing its multi-disciplinary and sustainability capabilities to clients from across the world. Growing from 510 employees in 2019 to 720 in 2024, the new office re-location is a reflection of this growth. Buro Happold’s London-based employees will work across 31,000 square feet and four floors of cutting-edge office space of the Featherstone Building on City Road, EC1. Buro Happold met the challenge of maintaining the building’s already impressive BREEAM Outstanding rating with its fit-out. The base build office also achieves both LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Platinum, Wired Score Platinum and with the fit out an additional Well Building Standard Platinum status for achieving exemplary environmental, sustainability, efficiency and health & wellbeing criteria is being delivered. To meet its own exacting needs, Buro Happold worked closely with global architecture, design, and planning firm Gensler to shape and design its workspaces, after listening to the views and ideas of its staff including through Town Hall sessions and sustainability and workplace focused working groups. Inclusive design and wellbeing are central to the new space, with a variety of quieter spaces, and busier spaces for collaboration, parent and multi-faith rooms, as well as a dedicated landscaped terrace area. Buro Happold led on sustainability, MEP, acoustics, lighting and inclusive design, as well as the inclusion of a structurally engineered set-piece timber staircase connecting floors five and six. Q Flow software was used to track the sustainable origin of all materials throughout the design process and underpin the high level of certification needed to meet the standards. Smart building technology has been installed to monitor heating and lighting performance in real-time as well as workspace utilisation, helping optimise building performance, wellbeing and productivity. To harmonise all of these innovative new elements, an easy-to-use smart-phone app has been created to access the building, book workspace and meeting rooms, and to provide staff with improved user experience and real-time updates. Justin Phillips, London Office Director, said: “We wanted to create a workplace that embodied the excellence of our staff within it. Collaboration was essential to this process, and we engaged with our staff early-on to understand what was really important to them. “Our mix of needs is very different as we continue to evolve from traditional engineers to multi-disciplinary experts and advisors, and the design of this office reflects that. “We’re proud of our new London home we’ve created. It’s not only a great place to be, but it also aligns with our ambitious sustainability goals and those of many of our clients across the world. I’m really excited about the potential of what we imagine and create here with our clients and collaborators in the transformative years ahead.” Becky Spenceley, Design Director, Gensler said: “We are delighted to have partnered with Buro Happold to design their new London headquarters. At Gensler, we strive to implement circular and resilient design solutions, setting new standards for an eco-friendly built environment. “Our design at the Featherstone Building has established an innovative and sustainable workplace design focused around honest materiality, celebrating structure and re-use furniture. It is a reflection of Buro Happold’s brand and values, and showcases an exciting variety of work and social spaces for employees and clients.” Choice of materials, features and design was also essential to ensuring the new office was as inclusive as possible. Drawing on expertise from within, Justin sought expertise from its Senior Inclusive Design Consultant Jean Hewitt on designing its spaces for inclusivity and neurodiversity. Jean is one of the leading practitioners in the field of inclusive design and is the UK Government’s Disability and Access Ambassador focusing on the built environment. Buro Happold works for a diverse range of private and public sector clients across multiple areas and is proud to have delivered many of London’s landmarks including Battersea Power Station, O2 Arena (Millennium Dome), The Michael Uren Biomedical Building, 5 Broadgate, Emirates Stadium, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and Stratford Waterfront. The Featherstone Building is a short distance from Old Street and Liverpool St underground stations and opposite the iconic White Collar Factory campus. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Global engineering consultancy Arup has officially opened its new Midlands base – one of its five largest global hubs – at Paradise Birmingham’s One Centenary Way, welcoming clients and contacts to mark the occasion. Arup was a major contractor to Birmingham City Council supporting it to deliver the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, helping to deliver the Alexander Stadium, transport and infrastructure improvements city wide, as well as the Perry Barr masterplan, and the Sandwell Aquatics Centre. Establishing a national and international centre of excellence for Arup in the Midlands, with nearly 800 staff and offering more than 90 specialist services UK-wide, the multi-million-pound investment cements Arup’s commitment to Birmingham and the region as a global business destination. Last year, the local Arup team worked on hundreds of projects locally and globally, supporting the delivery of more sustainable buildings, infrastructure, public spaces, and communities, and bringing the best of global expertise to the area. Arup’s move to the city centre is designed to attract local talent and aid the growth of the West Midlands as an innovation and skills hub. The new office location will bring Arup closer to schools, colleges and universities, ensuring stronger links to education and more opportunity to attract, grow and retain diverse industry talent locally. Based in the heart of the city, Arup’s public-facing activity hub on the ground floor, ‘The Gallery’, will be a space Arup staff are able to work alongside local partners and neighbours to deliver community based, and charitable activities. Speaking at the launch event, Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: “Arup’s move back into the heart of Birmingham city centre is a tremendous endorsement of all that our region has to offer a global player of Arup’s stature. “This kind of major investment is just the type we envisaged when we worked on the Enterprise Zone more than a decade ago – bringing to life our vision of a new city business district generating jobs for local people. “I know that this announcement will help equip young people from a wide variety of backgrounds with the skills, apprenticeships and opportunities they need to succeed. I cannot wait to see lives changed for the better in the months and years ahead. My thanks to Arup for helping to make that possible.” Understanding that the future office needs to compete with highly personalised home working arrangements, a variety of workplace settings, social areas, wellbeing areas, creative spaces and focus zones have been provided in the new Arup Midlands HQ. The new range of flexible workspaces is designed specifically to support collaboration, convening stakeholders and hosting events. Cem Budak, Arup Midlands Leader, said: “We are excited to officially open our new Midlands hub located in the heart of Birmingham, the UK’s second city. We are eager to build on six decades of expertise in Midlands and the opening of the new office will bring us closer to key decision-makers, clients and collaborators, helping to foster innovation and creativity across the region. “We helped to shape and design the space at One Centenary Way, which is undoubtedly one the finest commercial locations in the city. It is a space that our people already love working in and which helps them to engage with our clients and communities while exporting Birmingham skills and expertise around the world.” The new office plays a significant role in Arup’s ambition to reach net zero carbon by 2030. Arup worked closely with developer MEPC on One Centenary Way, which is the first building within the Paradise estate with all-electric heating and hot water systems, as well as SMART technology that enables continuous office adaptations around utilisation, comfort, and energy consumption. James Watts, Arup Birmingham Office Leader, said: “We are very proud that our new office is a showcase for our commitment to delivering sustainable solutions and our net zero carbon aspirations. We anticipate that our move will reduce travel emissions by over 60% and we will save over 1,100 tonnes of CO2 a year from our own staff commutes. Initiatives such as biophilic design, natural sheep wool wall insulation and a recycled material pallet will put our circular economy values into action while increasing staff connectivity with nature. “In addition, the office also ensures our knowledge and global expertise are easily accessible to local clients and collaborators, allowing us to continue to provide innovative solutions and long-lasting value.” Arup’s work in the Birmingham region for the last 60 years has helped shape the local landscape including major public buildings and developments from the NEC and ICC to commercial office buildings and new public realm like that created at Brindley place and Paradise in Birmingham. Arup’s major role in delivering the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games and supporting infrastructure in and around Birmingham helped secure a meaningful legacy for the Games in the Midlands. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Investing in real estate and property development has long been considered one of the most stable and profitable avenues for growing wealth. Unlike volatile assets like stocks, real estate offers a tangible, long-term investment that can yield multiple forms of return, from rental income to capital appreciation. But how can an investor successfully navigate this landscape, particularly when considering international real estate markets or real estate-related stocks? Let’s explore the key factors that make real estate a valuable investment, along with how stock market strategies such as short squeezes can enhance profitability in this sector. Key Factors to Consider in Real Estate Investments When buying property, whether domestically or abroad, it’s essential to evaluate several key indicators that can significantly impact your potential returns. Two of the most critical are supply and demand and market growth. A market with low supply and high demand will naturally drive up property values, allowing investors to capitalize through resale or rental income. Countries experiencing rapid urbanization, population growth, and infrastructure development offer prime opportunities. In these markets, properties often appreciate quickly, allowing for high-margin returns, sometimes without even the need for major renovations. Additionally, investors should consider political and economic stability, tax regimes, and interest rates in the region. Favorable conditions in these areas can make your real estate investment much more lucrative, while unfavorable conditions, such as political instability, could jeopardize the value of your asset. Countries like Greece, Spain, and Portugal have become increasingly attractive due to their growing real estate markets and favorable conditions for foreign investors. Diversification and Stock Market Alternatives Real estate is not just limited to physical property. You can also diversify your portfolio by investing in real estate exchange-traded funds (ETFs), mutual funds, and Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs). These stock market instruments allow you to gain exposure to real estate without the complexities of property management. ETFs can be traded like stocks, providing liquidity and flexibility, while mutual funds offer a more managed approach, with trades occurring at the end of the trading day. A relatively advanced strategy within the stock market is to capitalize on short squeeze within real estate-related stocks or REITs. In a short squeeze, when many investors bet against a stock by “shorting” it, an unexpected rise in the stock price can force these investors to buy back shares, further driving up the price. Skilled traders can profit by anticipating these movements, particularly in volatile real estate markets or REITs tied to speculative development projects. International Real Estate Investment: Key Markets For those looking to invest internationally, countries like the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, and Caribbean Islands offer unique opportunities. These regions have dynamic real estate markets driven by high tourism and expatriate demand. The UAE, for instance, offers strong rental yields, with Dubai’s real estate market growing by over 20% annually in some sectors. Additionally, several countries offer residency or even citizenship through investment programs, which can provide not only financial returns but also lifestyle and legal benefits. For example, purchasing a property in countries like Malta or Portugal can open the door to obtaining a second passport, enhancing global mobility. Risks to Consider Despite its many advantages, investing in real estate—particularly in foreign markets—can come with risks. Cultural and legal barriers may complicate the buying process, while currency fluctuations or economic downturns can affect profitability. Moreover, natural disasters or unforeseen political changes can jeopardize your property’s value. However, with the right research and planning, these risks can often be mitigated. Many successful investors partner with local experts to navigate these complexities and secure profitable deals. Conclusion: Maximizing Returns in Real Estate and the Stock Market Real estate remains a versatile and lucrative investment, offering multiple avenues for returns, whether through direct property ownership, rental income, or stock market investments like REITs and ETFs. By combining traditional real estate investing with stock market strategies such as short squeezes, savvy investors can maximize their returns and mitigate risk. For beginners entering the world of trading for beginners, starting with diversified instruments like REITs or ETFs can be a stepping stone before moving into more advanced strategies like short squeezes. With careful planning and strategic investment, real estate can be a cornerstone of a robust, diversified portfolio.
Perfect Workwear – for less than perfect days. Snickers Workwear’s new range of lightweight Mid-layers are a Fusion of style and performance – built for active work in the Autumn. Crafted for full flexibility on site and optimal comfort and built for active work, they’re fully flexible and can be worn as an outer layer when it’s warmer or a mid-layer when it’s a bit cooler. They’re full of handy technical features and innovative fabrics to tame the wind, plus brand new energising colours to brighten your spring-time workday. Choose from new street-smart styles such as the Windblocker Half-zip Hoodie or the Lightweight Flexiwork Mid-layer Jacket – creative workwear solutions designed to make your job easier. Whatever Snickers Workwear Mid-layer you choose, you can be sure that they all have body-mapping designs for a great fit, outstanding functionality and long-lasting comfort – all day, every day. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Building Information Modelling (BIM) has been a part of the construction industry since the 1970s, but it wasn’t until the early 2000s that it gained significant traction. Since then, BIM has continuously evolved, enhancing efficiency, communication, and productivity across the industry. Now, with the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), BIM is set to undergo another transformative leap, bringing new capabilities that promise to revolutionise how we plan, design, and manage construction projects. Understanding Building Information Modelling (BIM) BIM is both a process and a digital platform that enables the planning, design, construction, and management of buildings and infrastructure projects. Through BIM software, stakeholders can visualise the entire lifecycle of a project before any physical work begins. This capability allows project managers to comprehend the complexities of a project fully, facilitating better scheduling, resource allocation, and risk mitigation to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. AI’s Impact on BIM: Enhancing Capabilities The integration of AI into BIM has introduced significant advancements in several key areas, including clash detection, energy simulation, quality control, cost estimation, and schedule optimisation. AI and Augmented Reality (AR): A Powerful Combination Augmented Reality (AR) has gained traction in the construction sector, and its integration with AI-enhanced BIM is proving to be a game-changer. AR allows stakeholders to visualise the final product in a more immersive way than traditional blueprints or digital models. For example, clients can virtually walk through a building before construction begins, offering a more tangible understanding of what the finished project will look like. This capability is not only impressive but also invaluable in securing client buy-in and satisfaction. Challenges to AI Adoption in BIM Despite its many benefits, the adoption of AI-enhanced BIM is not without challenges. The most significant barrier is cost, as implementing advanced AI technologies can be expensive. Additionally, while BIM offers numerous preset designs, these can sometimes be restrictive for those seeking highly customised solutions. However, as AI technology continues to evolve, these limitations are likely to diminish, making it an increasingly attractive option for the construction industry. Conclusion The integration of AI into BIM is set to redefine the construction industry, offering unprecedented levels of efficiency, accuracy, and innovation. While challenges remain, the potential benefits far outweigh the drawbacks, making AI-enhanced BIM a critical tool for the future of construction. As this technology continues to develop, we can expect even greater advancements, paving the way for smarter, more sustainable building practices. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Asticus London building, a striking ten-storey landmark, has undergone a remarkable transformation. Originally constructed in 2006, the office building features a stunning new reception, business lounge, landscaped terrace, breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views, luxurious end-of-trip facilities in the basement, and the addition of four new Stannah passenger lifts, one of which can be used by emergency services in the event of a fire. Architects, Aukett Swanke, envisioned a remarkable Cat A office refurbishment design, with a strong focus on sustainability, achieving BREEAM Very Good accreditations. The building prioritises inclusivity with the new lifts providing daily step-free access. The Client The re-imagined Asticus building was acquired in 2016 by AXA IM Alts, a global leader in alternative investments. AXA IM Alts teamed up with primary contractors MND Construction Services, and architects Aukett Swanke, to undertake a comprehensive building refurbishment to all areas. This also included adding a new floor, all part of a broader lease opportunity. Stannah worked with MND Construction Services and Aukett Swanke to create modern and compliant step-free access throughout. Work Stannah installed three passenger lifts, as a triplex, each accommodating 13 people, transporting visitors and staff from the ground floor all the way up to the new tenth floor, with one lift extending to the basement. Stannah installed the lifts using a scaffold-less method. These passenger lifts were specified at 1000kg capacity and operated at a speed of 1.6m per second, providing a quick and efficient ride for passengers. Stannah also installed a fourth lift which is for firefighting but can be used as a normal passenger lift. A firefighting lift is an essential safety asset in high-rise buildings and has dedicated control features to aid the fire and rescue service. Some of the key features included in the firefighting lift design are trap doors, ladders, an emergency intercom system, and a separate power supply used by firefighters during rescue operations. This ensures the lift can operate efficiently even if the main building electrics are compromised. All the lifts adhere to the relevant performance and safety standards. Additional works included a new tenth floor, extensive refurbishments featuring new Cat A and optional Cat A+ finishes, the implementation of end-of-trip facilities such as bike storage racks, and a complete renewal of building services. Challenges New modern lifts were required to accommodate the increased number of people working in the building due to the addition of a new storey. This resulted in the need for a fully compliant and modern firefighting lift to meet the associated fire and safety specifications. There was an existing firefighting lift, although a survey by Stannah revealed concerns about compliance and operational issues. Before the new lifts could be installed, the existing four lifts had to be removed whilst minimising disturbance to the building occupants, ensuring safety and retaining step-free access at all times. This site was a live office environment, meaning it had existing tenants on some of the floors. As always for Stannah, safety was the first priority during the work as well as managing dust and noise levels. The Stannah team took great care to understand the operational requirements and concerns of the building occupiers to ensure that disruption to their daily activities was kept to a minimum. This even involved site tours so that they were fully involved in all aspects of the programme. Results The lift solution provided by Stannah at Asticus centred around accessibility, design and, for the fourth lift. fire safety. Stannah provided a tailored lift solution that not only fulfilled the design requirements but also aligned perfectly with the logistical needs of the construction process. To ensure precision in meeting the design requirements, Stannah delivered black-painted glass car finishes, with careful attention to the equal spacing of grey vertical stripes, even where the back and side panels met. Given the lifts’ placement on an odd-floor triplex, Stannah incorporated priority buttons into the design of the lift which served all floors, enabling efficient group call planning. Additionally, two lifts were installed with counterweight safety gears, emphasising Stannah’s commitment to delivering a functional, secure and aesthetically pleasing lift solution tailored to the specific needs of the project. The bespoke full-depth architraves, which were acid-etched with floor markings, added a decorative touch to the building’s design. The passenger lifts resulted in a practical and elegant solution, transforming the building into a desirable office refurbishment with step-free access to all areas. The 63,000sq of reimagined office space launched in February 2024. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals